now turning withstood their enemies at which instant those in ambush came down the hill with such violence and clamour that the Venetians being on every side beset were all slain except a few who yielded themselves Many also of the other two battalions being in flight slain The Count himself and Sonne with half the Horsemen were lost The Turks encouraged spoiled all Friuli betwixt Sontium and Tiliaventum So burning the Country that 100 Villages were to be seen on a light fire at once So laden with spoil driving before them great numbers of Captives they returned to Sontium and passing the River that all thought them to be quite gone they returning passed the River Tiliaventum no lesse harming on that side than before on the other So returning the way they came This overthrow being accounted among the greatest they received from the Turks Next year about Harvest 1478. they passing Sontium came before the Forrs with a far greater power offering to draw Fortebrachius into the field but he wary stood on his Guard expecting to take them at advantage wherefore the Turks durst not disperse for spoil So going about 4 miles they turning up into part of the Alps towards Germany grievously spoiled those people strangely passing those abrupt and high Mountains with their Horses then returning home another way about Mahomet determining once more to engage his whole forces for the winning of Scodra gave order both in Europe and Asia for assembling his best Souldiers seldom or never having a stronger Army first he sent Aly-beg with 80000 Achanzij towards Scodra who are Horsemen that having Lands for life from the King are bound to serve on their own charge as forerunners when he besiegeth a place who burning and spoiling till they come to the appointed place may depart or stay when all the Army is come Scodra's Governour fortifying night and day provided all necessaries for a long siege sending forth the aged c. into safer places and taking in many able men about the Countrey among whom were many Marriners or others who got their living on the River and lake of Scodra The Mountains North from the City the while shining with fires and the smoak drawing nearer and nearer soon after the Countrey people with what they could carry came running to the Cities by the Sea side crying out The Turks were come And next day May 14. Aly Beg with his Achanzij encamped in the Suburbs that none could go in or out Scander-Beg Governour of Bosna and Malcotius the Majesty of whose countenance and resplendent beames of his eyes were of such piercing brightness that none was able with fixed eye long to behold them with 7000 Horse joyning unto him of which Horsemen the Christians with often sallies and shot slew many with little or no losse Ten dayes after came Taut Bassa of Constantinople with 25000 men and about 12000 Came's most laden with metall to make Ordnance c. whose stately Purple-Tent was pitch'd on a hill where Solyman had layn about 4 years before his Army encamping between that and the Town Taut was born in Epirus of mean Parentage and for his wit and activity was thus promoted and suspected he would have aspired the Empire Whilest the great Ordnance were casting the Bassa made a great Bridge over the River to passe at pleasure The busied Christians the while were so vigilant that no Turk stirred within shot but he was slain June 13. Mustapha Viceroy of Asia came with 30000 Asians to the Siege personable men but not accounted so good Souldiers as the Europeans whose rich green Pavilion was pitched in a Vineyard about a mile from the Town Mustapha propounding a reward to whomsoever durst touch the Cities walls two Souldiers well mounted hastening thither were both slain from the wall one of whose bodies being recovered by a salley his Head was set on a Launce upon the Wall 's top June 15. 5600 Janizaries comming to the Camp the Bassaes wellcommed them with a wondrous shout 3. dayes after came two other great men with many followers desiring safely to speak with the Governour and Captains of the City Which granted the Elder after setting forth his Master's power and what he had done to others perswaded them to yield assuring them of all kind usage with rich rewards otherwise to expect nought but extreme misery and death in whose name Pagnanus answered They feared not Mahomets greatness c. that he should find it hard to enforce them impossible to perswade them c. concluding they should expect no answer to any such motion hereafter but from the Cannons mouth At this time Croia having held out a yeares siege for lack of Victuals was yielded to the Turk on condition that the hunger-starv'd defendants might safely depart at pleasure who not withstanding put them all to the sword the Scodrians being much grieved but not discouraged thereat The Watermen comming often down the River by night and much hurting the Camp they builded some Gallies to keep them in who yet stealing on them much troubled 〈◊〉 who June 22 mounting 2 great Ordnance on the 〈◊〉 hill one carrying a stone Bullet of 300 l. the other of 400 battered the Town four dayes then planting a third piece at the Hills foot bearing a bullet of 400 l. and next day they planted a 4th piece about the middle of the Hill carrying 650 weight The while came 8000 Asapi into the Campe and shortly after came Mahomet with all his Army to the River Drinon where the two Bassaes pompously met him Who July 2 comming to the Campe after viewing Scodra's Scituation is reported to have said O what a stately place hath the Eagle chosen to build her nest and hatch her young ones in Round about his divers rich Tents lay the Janizaries whereinto was but one entrance most strongly guarded about the Janizaries all the rest of the Army encamped and still more resorting daily thither it was deemed Mahomet to have in all 350000 men Against which terrour the defendants were notably encouraged by one Bartholmew who being somtimes Scanderbegs Souldier was become a Preacher July the 5th the Turks mounted two other great pieces one like the former but the other discharging a 1200 pound shot being called the Prince's piece and wherewith the Turks had from the beginning threatned the besieged Next day a 7th piece carrying 550 pound was planted on the same Bassaes Mount they casting in Fire-balls out of Morter-pieces by night to fire the City but divers Citizens uncovering their houses and by men watching the fall of the fire works c the Enemie's device took no effect Then also they casting huge stones out of short Mortar-pieces which falling from on high crushed what ever they lighted on wondrously troubled the defendants Few dayes after they mounting three other piece's one was bigger then the Prince's carrying 1300 weight So battering the City daily with 10 such pieces as hath been seldome heard of Arrowes falling like haile showers
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-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
Capellius the Venetian Admiral with 60 Galleys set forth for their own defence who though kind to Auria yet could not joyn with him against the Turk Solyman having lately renewed an old league with the Venetians who bare themselves so indifferent at that time that t was thought they at one instant advertised Auria of Hymerales the Turks laying with 60 Galleys in Ambracia Bay ill appointed easily to be surprized and warned him also of Auria's coming with a strong Fleet wishing him to provide for his better safety who departed to the strong Haven of Calcide So the Christian Princes being then either in wars among themselves or entangled by Solyman in uncertain leagues omitted the fairest opportunity for abating the Turks greatness Auria out of hope of doing any good against the Turk's Admirall being at Calcide came to Corone about 12 miles from Modon laying hard siege thereto by Sea and Land most terribly battering it with 14 great Pieces by Land and 150 by Sea yet the Turks manfully repulsed the Italians who under the Count of Sarne assaulted the City by Land The adjacent Garrisons did what might be to relieve it being discomfited by the said Count and Zadares their leader slain whose head with others were set on stakes for terror of the Defendants who at length wearied and terrified and driven from their greatest strength toward◠Sea by some resolute Christians fearing also to want Victual and Powder yielded the City and Castle to Auria to depart with bag and baggage Corone was taken and strongly garrisoned and the Christian Greeks worn to them Auria came to Patras which he easily took and ransacked the Turks also soon yielded their strong trench with the Castle covenanting that they chiefly their Wives might with their Garments only safely depart into Aetolia so that when some Souldiers as they passed along began roughly to handle some Women and take away some Jewels Auria presently hanged them And leaving his Army to follow him by Land sailed to the Strait of Naupactum now Lepanto on which Strait stood two Castles Rhium on Peloponesus Coast and Molycreum in Aetolia which Bajazet had greatly fortified with Ordnance Auria threatning all extremities to the Captain of Rhium if he forced him to plant his battery he presently yielded onely him and his Souldiers safely to depart those who came with him by Sea had the Castles spoil whereby those who came by Land were about to forsake him The other Castle being defended by old Janizaries was not so easily taken yet the Christians entring by a breach made slew 300 of them the rest fleeing into a strong Tower and seeing no remedy but taking blew up themselves with Gunpowder in such sort that all the Sea-coast seemed shaken with an Earth-quake and the Galleys a bow shoot off almost overwhelmed with 〈◊〉 some Piece of very great Ordnance here taken were 〈◊〉 Auria mounted in token of Victory on the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Genua's Haven Auria strongly fortifying and storing Corone promised to relieve Mendoza the Governour a Spaniard 〈◊〉 need if the Emperour deferred to do it Salviatus Naupactum strait laid open with the Galleys of Malta did great harm to the Turks on both 〈◊〉 of Corinthsgulfe even as far as Corinth Winter approaching Auria hearing from the Emperour of Solymans departure returned loaden with poil to Genua In 1533 Mendoza advertised the Viceroy of Naples that he was hardly besieged by the Turks both by Sea and Land wherefore he most earnestly requested that the Emperour if he would have Corone kept should send him timely relief whereupon the Greeks were likely to help expulse the Turks out of Peloponesus especially he put Auria in minde of his promise to relieve him whom Charls commanded to rig up a Fleet for that service promising him 12 Galleys new built in Spain and requesting the Knights of Malta to aid him who taking in his Souldiers at Naples where the mutinous Spaniards for want of pay having rifled Aversa having pay given them were embarqued for Corone under Macicaus also Frederick the Viceroy's Son with a Company of Gentlemen went aboard The Knights of Malta coming thither also with their Galleys Auria the while to incourage them of Corone sent thither Palavicine of invincible courage with a most swift Galley who by day-light thorow the midst of the Turk's Fleet recovered the Haven to their great joy and viewing all things and assuring the Defendants of speedy relief he about noon brake out again thorow them safely escaping for all that they could do to overtake him Auria being informed at Messana of the enemies force stayed not for the Spanish Galleys being told the enemies Fleet daily encreased by Turkish Pirates and that Assembeg or the Moor of Alexandria an arch Pirate was looked for in whose directions the Turks put the greatest hope being come to Zant he heard that Lutzis Bassa their great Admiral with two others and the Moor men of great skill at Sea lay before Corone with 80 Galleys manned with old Janizaries Wherefore Auria sent before Palavicine again to view their manner of laying who returned to Auria confirming the former report the Turks Fleer greatly increased seeming ready to give him battel when he approached the City yet Auria made no stay and with a fair gale of wind passing the Promontory of Acrites came directly towards Corone Two great Gallions cam foremost whom he appointed to turn a little on the left hand and when the enemy put off from shoare to cast Anchor betwixt both Fleets to beat the Turks Galleys with their great store of Ordnance Auria himself was in the middle of the Fleet. At first sight the Turks moved not discharging their Ordnance at them a far off then beginning to set forward chiefly by the Moor who 〈◊〉 most courage assail'd the side and rear of the Fleet for the Christians keeping a straight course seemed to flee and the more since the right wing Galleys fearing the Turk's great Ordnance fet a great compass many also of the middle Squadron and left Wing having thrust in disorderly among the Ships though they had received little or no harm The Moor now requested Lutzis not to let slip so fair an occasion who while he set slowly forward Auria had put his Fleet in order again and was come to Corone Two Ships falling foul of each other 〈◊〉 behind about which the Turks flocking took the lesser killing all the Spaniards therein out of whom boording the greater with a bloody fight had won the fore Castle and waste wherefore Auria caused all his Galleys to return to rescue those Ships which the Turks seeing and by degrees falling down with the Ships in danger of the Town-shot withdrew themselves with their Oares in manner of flight whom Auria pursued towards Modon liberally thundering in their Poups Antonius Auria the while coming to rescue the two Ships the Spaniards as revived couragiously now made resistance and those with Antonius entring speedily on every side slew and
shew themselves but they were set off with great Ordnance yet Calderomus a Spaniard seeing some viewing that part of the wall most battered at the Castle-Bulwark sallied out but was presently slain with a bullet which did the more incense not terrifie the rest so that when they saw the enemy busie in filling the Ditch 100 Knights and Souldiers sallying forth made the enemy betake himself to flight slaying 80 and losing ten men 2 being Knights whose Heads next day the Turks set on spears upon their Trenches The same day they of Melita at night made many fires discharging great Valleys of small shot c. done only to shew their cheerfulnesse and keep the Turks in suspence who for all that filled up the Ditch at the Castle-bulwark whereby they might without stay passe unto the over-thrown Wall with 2 great peeces from a High Mount cast up playing upon the Castle shooting at first shot in Castilia's Loupe a Spanish Knight being there slain with a small shot on which day a Spanish Souldier fled out of the Town to the enemy assuring them they should by a fresh assault win the Town there being but 400 alive in it and they he said almost spent with labour and wounds Wherefore Aug. 7. they at one instant assaulted the City at the Castle-bulwark and the Castle at the Breach with an exceeding multitude the noise of Warlike Instruments and cry of men on both sides being exceeding confused and great which the Knights in Melita hearing and seeing the smoak fearing the worst All the Horsmen issued forth to avert the Turks from the assault by setting upon those at Aqua Martia who fled these hardly pursuing them with bloudy execution who pittifully cryed for help whereby the other gave over the assault to rescue their fellows having lost 1500 besides those slain in chase the Defendants in both places losing above 100 and almost as many wounded Valetta going that day and certain others to the Temple to give publike thanks for that Victory Garzias was advertised that some ships with men and warlike provision were coming from Constantinople to Malta who sent 2 Noblemen with 5 Galleys to meet them who met only one Frigot and a Galliot taking the one the other escaping to Malta Mustapha commanded his Souldiers again to assault the Breach at Michaels Castle where they were with no small slaughter soon repulsed He gave so many assaults more to shew valour and satisfie Solyman than for hope of Victory who had commanded either to win the Island or to lose all their lives Mustapha also sent in haste to Solyman shewing the state of the Fleet the Armies difficulties their small hope to win how well the Christians were provided c. The 2 Galleys aforesaid going out of the Haven of Syracusa met with a Maltese coming from Pozalo in a boat sore wounded telling them that landing by night with one Companion he was requested by 2 Sicilians to rest there that night and 5 Turks breaking into the House killed his Companion carried away the Sicilians wounding him thus who hardly escaped by benefit of the night Moreover that the Sicilians told the Turks two Galleys were come into that Port bound for Malta whereby they perceived their coming would be discovered yet they kept on their course as far as Pozalo whence they certified the Viceroy what had happened and the South-wind blowing stifly against them they returned to Syracusa expecting his further direction which was to stay for the coming of the whole Fleet ready shortly to passe to Malta but Salazar in his little boat from Pozalo soon arrived at Malta and came to the City and in Turkish Apparel with a Companion who could speak their Language by night got into the Turks Camp where they perceived there was scarce 14000 Souldiers in all many being wounded and sick the rest but unserviceable and feeble So they returned to the City whence Salazar with one Paccius a Spaniard went to a place nigh the Watch-Tower of Muleca which they curiously viewing Paccius was there left that observing the signes from Gaulos and Melita he might give knowledge to the Viceroy at his approach Salazar himself returned to Messana in his little boat declaring to the Viceroy all he had seen and affirming the Turks Fleet was far unable to encounter with 10000 Christians one of the 2 Frigots sent to Malta returning with another Spaniard and a Turkish fugitive and 4 Galleys coming in with 14 Turks taken about Malta confirming the same and saying that the Turks seeing the Christians invincible courage and skill in shooting repented that ever they took in hand that expedition many stealing away especially the 〈◊〉 of the Christian Faith c. There was in the Castle one Givara Captain of the Vaunt-guard who about 10 foot from the Wall beaten down drew a Curtain 50 foot-long and 5 foot-thick with Flankers at both ends a great help to the besieged the enemy the while began a Mine under the Corner of the Town-ditch defeated by a counter-mine As a fugitive was swimming to the 〈◊〉 he was taken by the enemy which much grieved the besieged Now part of the Turks assailed the Castle and part thought to have blown up the Castle-bulwark but many were in both places slain and some baggs of powder taken from them in the Mine Mustapha and Piall disappointed of their hope consulted with the other great Captains whether to continue that desperate siege or depart most thinking it was best betime to depart yet Mustapha said He would stay till the Galliot were returned from Solyman and the while by force and policy to seek after Victory which he did too often either for his Armie's or the besieged's estate bringing all to such perfection in short time as might have carried a stronger place had not the Defendants valour far exceeded all his devices Robles Governour of the Castle viewing by night the Walls-ruines was struck in the Head with a 〈◊〉 shot and slain A man for his many good parts beloved In whose stead Valetta sent an expert and resolute Colonell who so vigilantly discharged his place that the Turks were repulsed with losse so oft as they attempted the place Two Galleys with a Galliot 〈◊〉 by the 2 Galleys of Malta told Piall The Christian Fleet was ready to come forth Wherefore he caused 70 Galleys to be in readinesse keeping himself by day in the Port Maior nigh the shoar putting to sea by night expecting their coming but after long looking when he saw none he landed his men again taking out of every Galley most of the powder for the Bassa 〈◊〉 land After which they with a greater fury battered the Walls of both Towns especially with Basilisks whose shot was 7 hands about the Walls of Michaels-Castle being 〈◊〉 flat and the Castle Bulwark of St. Angelo was almost fallen quite down Wherefore Aug. 18. at noon they fiercely assaulted both Towns being thrice repulsed and still coming on afresh yet at length
strong and valiant Garrison who lustily bestowing their shot slew a great number yet the Christians having for 2 dayes and 2 nights most furiously shaken the walls entred by plain force Novemb. 26. and put to the sword all the Souldiers except those that had retired into a more inward Castle who being 800 with Wives and Children without hope of relief and the Canon bent against them set out a white Ensign and upon Parly it was agreed they should depart with life and what goods e-every one could carry whereupon the Castle was yielded the 28 day and the Turks safely conveyed to the place desired Here they found great booty with much warlike provision but of Victuals 〈◊〉 store The Generall with the Captains fell on their knees in the Castle and with Hearts and Hands lifted up thanked God for the recovery of that strong City but chiefly for delivery of so many Christians out of Thraldom for 't is reported there were above 800 Villages subject to the jurisdiction of Fileck the Christians forthwith repairing 〈◊〉 every place left a sufficient Garrison in the City Castles departing with about 20000 towards Sodoch 6 miles off but upon the way the Generall heard that the Turks for fear had abandoned the Castles of Diswin and Somosk Who sending out some Companies to take in those places they found them indeed forsaken but yet many Ordnance and other warlike provision there left About the end of November the Generall marched towards Sethchine a strong Town in the Diocess of Agria but the Turks having sent their wives children the best of their substance to Hatwan Buda hearing of the approach of this Army fired the Town fled the Christians entring saved a great part of the Town from the fire so leaving there a fit Garrison he hasted to Blavenstine which the Turks fetting on fire fled The Christians next day Decem. 4th found a great part yet unburnt leaving a strong garrison so marching to Sallek they took it being forsaken by the Enemies putting into it a strong garrison The General was very desirous to have prosecuted so happy a course of victory but through the foulness of the winter-weather he could not travel with his great Artillery and his Army in that wasted country began to feel want so that many had withdrawn unto their Habitations Then also the Lord Palpey finding Dregel and Palanka forsaken furnished both places with Garrisons other strong places were also this Month recovered and as much Territory gained by the Christians as was thought to equalize the lower Austria This joyfull newes of Victories and Recovery made great Rejoycing at Vienna and Prague Wherefore publike prayers with thanksgiving were made in both places with many tokens of triumph both there and in other places But the dead bodies of the Turks slain at Alba not being buried so noysome a smell rose thereabouts that none could abide to come near the place to the great trouble of the Inhabitants round about At length 350 Turks out of Buda and Alba meeting to have buried those Carcasses a Captain of the Hussars lighting on them left most of them there dead carrying away the rest prisoners The Bassa of Buda causing the Zanzack of Palotta to be strangled upon suspition of Intelligence with the Christians another coming with 600 Turks to possess his place was by the way by Peter Lehushar with the Souldiers of 2 Garrisons slain with most of his followers 35 being taken with the Zanzacks 〈◊〉 furniture Also the Turks of Petrinia Siseg Castrowitz and other places about 3000 passing over Savus Decemb. 19. began to spoil those Frontiers but by the Lord Graswin and the Borderers 500 of them were slain divers of good account taken almost all the rest drowned in the River towards the end of which Month great numbers of Souldiers being taken up in Saxony and other places were sent to Prague and Vienna and in Hungary the Christians encreased with new supplies In Austria also was a new Army raised and 22 great pieces sent down Danubius to Comara and preparation every where made against the next year Amurath going out of Constantinople Jan. the 11th 1594 to muster the Army prepared against the Christians a Tempest of Wind and Rain suddenly overthrew his Tents and Charriots yea his Horses and Men had much adoe to withstand it whereat he as with an ominous prodigie exceedingly troubled returned with his Army into the City and oppressed with melancholy cast himself upon his Bed where falling asleep he dreamed he saw an exceeding tall man standing with one foot upon the Tower of the City and the other over the strait in Asia who stretching out his Arms held the Sun in one and the Moon in another whom whilest he wondered at the Man with his foot struck the Tower which falling down overthrew the great Temple and Pallace he awaked as he thought with the noyse and much troubled sent for all his 〈◊〉 and Interpreters to know the meaning of so strange a dream who answered him that since he had not with all his force impugned the Christians their Prophet Mahomet threatned thereby to overthrow the Religion and Empire of the Turks which vain Interpretation so moved the superstitious Tyrant that he sware from thenceforth not to give over War till he had done what he would with all his forces to subdue the Christians which Dream Interpretation and solemn Vow was read in the Temples of Transilvania with many exhortations to the people by prayer and all good meanes to avert so threatned thraldom Of the rich spoyl taken from the Turks in the Victory near Abba regalis the Captains sent a Present for the Emperour and the arch-Duke his Brother by the Lords Gall and Brun which they presented unto them Jan. 11th at Vienna in a pompous order and being rewarded by the Emperour with Chains of Gold and other gifts returned unto the Camp and though it was now deep Winter yet many sharp skirmishes daily passed upon the Borders betwixt the Turks and Christians The 15th of this moneth 2000 Turks were making an inroad about Fileck but Lord Teuffenbach laying in waite for them slew and took 1500 of them Matthias the arch-Duke Governour of Stiria Carinthia and the Countries thereabout Ernest his Brother being lately by Philip of Spain made Governour of the low Countries was now also made Generall of the Christian Army who to further the new Warre departed February the 26 from Vienna to Rab the forces newly raised in Germany and Hungary daily following him and by the perswasion of Teuffenbach sent Count Schlike with an hundred Horse to Fileck for the more safety of that place and the Country so lately gained About this time a Turk taken and brought into the Camp confessed among other things that in Novigrad a strong Town but three miles from Buda was left but about eight hundred Souldiers who were in great fear to be besieged wherefore the Turks had brought thither much
Governour of Comara set upon the Turks Rear slaying a great number of those that had charge of the Victuals taking 120 150 Camels men and 300 Mules laden with Rice and Meal which they carried away Sinan comming towards Rab encamped within a mile thereof It is populous and was accounted the strongest Bulwark of Vienna being from it about 12 German miles standing on the south-side of Danubius whence the River maketh a most fertile Isle called Schut in whose East-point standeth strong Comara Count Hardeck had the keeping thereof with 1200 choise Souldiers to whom were lately joyned some Italian Companies who with the Citizens made up 5000 men July 31. Matthias about Sun-setting 〈◊〉 out of Rab into Schut Island Sinan came and beset it round so speedily casting up Trenches Mounts and placing whatever was necessary for so great a siege that it was thought most strange Aug. 2. he furiously battered the City bringing his Trenches within Musket shot of the walls at which time 4000 Tartarian Horse swam over Danubius between Rab and Comara 6000 Turks following them who suddenly surprizing a Fort next the River discharged five great pieces found therein upon the Christian Camp who terrified with the sudden accident hardly charged them and slew many chiefly those that were dispersed for booty forcing the rest to take the River wherein most of them perished About 5 dayes after the Tartars swam over again and burning a Village in the Island slew some Christians in their Tents but they were easily overthrown by Horsmen and many slain the rest forsaking Weapons and Horses ran into the River whom the Christians hardly pursuing slew about 2000 therein Sinan the while thundred with 60 great pieces against the City without ceasing but as yet had made no breach for entrance but the towers and high Houses were hurt and the Camp by random-shot fleeing over the Town The Janizaries in a great rain furiously with a horrible cry assaulred an outer Bulwark which the Christians forsaking for fear had retired into the City so that the Janizaries had there set up 3 Ensignes but the Christians ashamed forthwith sallied out again and couragiously charging them 〈◊〉 many and recovered the 〈◊〉 Sinan was now 〈◊〉 up a great Mount which whilst he daily surveyed he fell sick appointing a Bassa in his siead to oversee the work who walking to and fro 〈◊〉 the work was slain with a shot out of the Town Aug. 15. Some Turks early getting over the River in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Fort which the Souldiers presently forsook which John de Medices perceiving came with his Italians and driving the Turks out of the Fort slew divers forcing the rest into the River where they were all drowned At which time 5000 Tartars in another place passing into the Island were by 〈◊〉 and his Hussars without much resistance put to flight slaying many the rest hoping to get over the River but other Turks meeting them in the River would have beaten them back and stayed their flight but the Tartars opposing them made a most cruel fight so that of the 5000 Tartars few returned to their fellows Now began great scarcity in the Turks Camp so that the Souldiers eating unripe fruit c. had the Bloudy-flux and many Diseases which did wondrously consume the Army Besides many were slain from the City one being Sinan's Son in law upon whose death he is said to have fallen sick for grief but soon recovered again The Tartars passing into the Island Aug. 19. 3000 were there slain some Turkish Companies having also 〈◊〉 passed over assailed the Christians Camp and other Tartars got over not farre from Comara hoping at length to perform some great matter but finding the Turks overthrown before their comming and the Christians ready for them they were 〈◊〉 2000 slain in which conflict 3 Zanzacks and many of great account perished Shortly after the Christians sallying out of Rab slew many Turks retiring with small loss Many now perswaded the Bassa to raise his siege and to remove to some other more wholsome and plentisull place but he would not hearken to any 〈◊〉 In the mean time Maximilian the Emperour's Brother took Cragstowitz a 〈◊〉 upon 〈◊〉 Borders of Croatia and put all the Turks to the sword Then he besieged the exceeding strong Fortress of Petrinia by whose and his Souldiers industry they so terrified the Turks with continuall battery and Mines that firing the Fort they fled away by night shifting for themselves whereupon they of Sifeg firing the Castle left it to the Christians So did they of Gara by which success all Croatia was for that time freed of a great trouble and danger Aug. 28. 20000 Christians passing the River by a Bridge and joyning with them of the Town fallied out upon the Turks Camp The Hungarians in the front at first onset beating the Turks out of two Bulwarks and cloyed their Ordnance but they returning with more power forced the Christians to retire and recovered their Bulwarks many were slain on bo h sides Thouhause and Hardeck's Lievtenant came in boates with 1500 Foot to help their fellows but landing too late they were by the Turks forced with such speed to retire that many not able to recover the boats were drowned Geitzhofler himself perishing and Thonhause deadly wounded yet the Christians assembling under the very walls gave them a second assault the Foot being foremost were easily repulsed by the Turkish Horse but Lord Rinsberg comming in who at first onset was slain the Turks were forced to their trenches except a few divided ones who being found hid in Vineyards were all flain Lord Palfi was much wounded in his thigh 400 Christians were slain and about 2000 Turks These conflicts endured from 7 in the morning till noon the Christians then retiring and returning carried away besides other spoiles 17 Turks Ensignes daily skirmishes passing Septem 9. 10000 Turks getting over into Schut Island suddenly set upon the Christians sleeping in security slaying 2000 and after a small fight put the rest to flight so that Matthias himself with the other great ones had much ado to escape The 〈◊〉 the while took their Tents Ordnance Ammunition and all the money lately brought for the Souldiers pay with 1000 Waggons and 200 boats loaden with provision and 10 Galleys containing 120 piece of Ordnance the loss being valued at 500000 Duckats And though the Turks lost 2500 men yet by this Victory they roamed far and near unresisted and burnt some Villages not far from Vienna so that for many miles the Towns were for fear forsaken some people being slain some carried captive and some with what they had getting farther off into more safe places and shortly after the Tartars passing Danubius sacked and burned Weisenburg with certain Towns thereabouts but adventuring to go further they were with loss forced to return Cicala Bassa the Turkish Admiral the mean time landing his men in divers places of Italy did exceeding harm chiefly in Calabria where surprizing
they resolved to hold it out to the last man though Mahomet had oft willed them to yield it up promising safe departure with life and goods otherwise threatning greater extremities than was shewed at Hatwan whereto they never answered him for Terski had forbad all parley setting up Gallowes in the Market-place and threatning to hang whoever should once motion a yielding of the City The arch-Duke having stayed somewhat too long at 〈◊〉 expecting more ayd began now to set forward as if he indeed purposed to relieve his friends so hardly beset at Agria but through the foulness of the weather hindering the passage of his Ordnance to omit other things he marched scarce 12 miles in 14 dayes whereby the Enemy now hearing of their coming turned all his endeavours from battery to fill up the Ditch of the old Castle to hasten which Mahomet himself rode up and done encouraging his men in that desperate work but whilest they were busied therein the Christians sallying out made great slaughter of them 〈◊〉 so chased Ibraim Bassa with those about him that in flight he lost his Tulipant and was very nigh taking yet the work by the restless labour of such a multitude was so perfected that the Turks Octob. 10th gave the Castle four desperate assaults being still with great slaughter repulsed but the fifth time by a greater fury they entred putting about 800 which were therein to the sword 400 of whose heads a Captain sent to Mahomet in the Camp where at he is said to have taken great pleasure The new Castle now onely remaining although the Turk's battery was very terrible against it yet their greatest hope was in 14 secret Mines which were now almost ready to be blown up whereupon the besieged hearing of no relief resolved without consent of their chief Commanders to yield rising up as one man in a mutiny against Niari and Terski who first greatly disswaded them from such cowardise minding them of their Oath then requested them on their knees to hold out a while in hope of speedy relief yea Terski with hands cast up intreated them if they would needs yield first to kill him that he might not see so great a dishonour In the mean time 250 common Souldiers many being Italians escaped out into the Camp divers of whom turned Turks which so added to the former fear that forthwith coming to a parley they agreed with Swords by their sides and bag and baggage safely to depart Mahomet gave them his faith with mutual Hostages for performance so Octob. 13th about 2000 coming forth they were not gone far but were cut in pieces by the Turks and Tartars some being flain quick and others otherwise dismembred the Turks upbraidingly saying Faith was not to be kept with them that had dealt so cruelly at Hatwan Some of 〈◊〉 chief Turks complained to the Sultans of this perfidiousness who is 〈◊〉 to have executed some of the chief Authours and to proclaim that if the Turks or Tartars had taken any of them to set them at liberty Whilest Mahomet besieged Agria the Bassa of Bosna with some other Sanzacks besieged 〈◊〉 with a 〈◊〉 Army and so furiously battered it for 7 dayes that it 〈◊〉 thought impossible to hold it out two days longer 〈◊〉 Herbenstein and 〈◊〉 with all their power coming towards Petrinia retired towards Siseg there in haste to passe over the River Kulp whom the Turks supposing to have fled put 6000 Horse over the River to pursue them on whom the Christians turning slew many and drave the rest into the River where most of them perished so next day they by a Bridge passed over at Siseg and being come near to Petrinia were encountred by 8000 Turks whom they putting to flight understood by some prisoners taken that the Bassa the day before was risen and gone which they at first believed not but coming thither found it so Maximilian came to Cassovia Octob. 17th four days after the losse of Agria whither the Transilvanian Prince was come with 18000 Horse and Foot and forty Field-pieces to ayd him Next day they setting forward joyned with Teuffenbach and Palsi all whose united forces consisted now of 32000 Horse and 28000 Foot having 120 Field-pieces and 2000 Wagons wherewith they enclosed their Army every night so they orderly marched towards Agria all seeming very desirous to give the Turks battel and by the way came to a fair Heath where they were to passe over a River which passage Giaffar Bassa had taken with 20000 Turks and Tartars purposing by enlarging it to have made way for the whole Army over on the other side as commodious for many things especially for plenty of water for themselves and to have kept the Christians from it but next day Octob. 23 they skirmishing with him especially at the passage slew 300 of his men at the first encounter who seeing the whole Army coming on fled to the Sultan losing two Ensigns and two Field-pieces but not many Men through timely flight and the nights approach The Christians finding the place where the Bassa lay not so commodious for them as they supposed chiefly for lack of Wood and hearing of the Sultan's approach retired over the River again to their former place enclosing themselves with their Wagons Next day Octob. 24 towards night Mahomet appeared with all his Army sending 3000 Tartars to passe the River of whom the Christians slew many with great shot and put the rest to flight In the morning Mahomet with his Army ranged in order of Battel came in sight sending again part of his Forces over the River with whom the Christians skirmished from morning till night the main Bodies all this while standing falt on both sides of the River But at length both sides being well wearied nd many slain the Turks retired again over the River and next day both sides resolving to give Battel Octob. 26 Mahomet drew down with his Army towards the River nigh which place were the ruines of an old Temple wherein he placed Janizaries and 24 Field pieces sending 20000 choise Souldiers over the River whom the Christians with part of their Army so fiercely charged that they soon overthrew them as also some Companies of Tartars came over in another place and following the chase put to flight also them on the further side of the River flaying a great number and by the coming on of the rest of the Army took from them 190 great Pieces which so affrighted the Turks Camp that Mahomet with Ibraim Bassa fled towards Agria shedding some teares as he went and wiping his eyes with a piece of Mahomets Garment which for reverence he carried about him Night drawing on the General was about to found a retreat for that day but the Prince Palfi and the rest perswaded him in so great a fear of the Enemy to prosecute the Victory and the rather because the Turks began to repair their disordered Battels wherefore the Christians charged the Front of the Turks restored
Castles thereabouts without mercy though the poor Inhabitants offered them large contribution Hereupon also Swartzenburg determined with all his Forces to come again to the siege of Buda sending for some great Ordnance to Vienna Col. Rodoler of St. Andrews in upper Hungary also upon this overthrow shewed himself with 500 Horse and 600 Foot before Agria yet leaving most of his Forces a little way off in Ambush The Bassa hereupon sallying out began a hot skirmish but those in Ambush started out and couragiously assayling the Turks put them to flight pursuing them even to the gates of the City and had there bin more Footmen 't was thought that the dismayed and confounded Turks had abandoned the place Nevertheless the Christians with small loss retired having slain a great number and carrying away 100 prisoners with 500 Horse and much Cattell The free Haiducks also receiving new supplies had done great harm in the Country about Buda without opposition Wherefore the poor Christians which yet dwelt there ŕose up against the Turks promising Obedience to the Emperour and that they might be no more molested by the Imperials offered to do their utmost themselves to hinder the Turks passage by Land and Water These Haiducks also brake down all Bridges which the Turks had made between Buda and Alba-regalis for the commodious bringing of Victuals and munition to each other and Palfi Nadasti hearing that the Tartars in 3 companies had over-run much of the Country and were retiring towards Buda with great booty went out and forced them to fight who better inured to filch lost all their lives with what they had stollen Then with their Forces they took 2 of the Turks Castles with much rich spoyl which they sacked and burnt with the great Town of Zolna breaking down the bridge upon the river Trava The Turks at Buda now having no Governour and also pinched with great want doubting some sudden attempt retired into the Castle leaving the City to the Imperials then ready to have besieged it but the Avantguard of the Turks great Army being come to Moattesh where Sartes Bassa was also looked for and there being a report that the Turks having relieved Buda would besiege Canisia or Strigonium they as in doubt went no farther So some Commanders with their Souldiers were sent to fortifie some passages whereby the Enemy was to pass the rest retiring for that he began to approach they knew also what desire Ibraim had to recover Strigonium The Imperials the while encamping near 〈◊〉 and Zolnock cut off 500 Turks going towards Buda to vctual it taking a Chiaus prisoner who was sent from Ibraim to Agria to put them in hope of speedy relief Then also they approaching the 〈◊〉 of Zolnock with certain Petards being discovered by the watch were ensorced to retire 40 being left slain and many more carried away wounded in revenge whereof the rest destroyed the Villages intercepting much Munition and Victuals going to Buda and Agria Ibraim Bassa in the beginning of September came to Buda with an Army of 130000 Whence in his Masters Name he gave the Emperour to understand That to save the further effusion of innocent bloud and not for any distrust of his own strength he could be content to hearken to some reasonable Conditions of peace whereunto both these Princes having well wearied themselves and exhausted their Treasures seemed not now unwilling the rather because the old Sultanness who through the greatest weakness of her Sons Government did bear most 〈◊〉 seemed in what she might to further the same Wherefore about the end of this month a parley was agreed on in an Island of Danubius beneath Strigonium Swartzenburg Nadasti Palfi and the Bishop of Vacia being for the Emperour and the Bassa of Buda with the Lievr Gen. of the Tartars and some others for the Sultan The Turks at first demanded Rab Strigonium with all other Towns and Castles taken from them in 5 years before with a yearly Tribute to be paid at Constantinople the Emperour also to have his Embassadour Leiger alway attending upon the Turks Court for which they would deliver the City of Agria only All which Demands being by the Emperour's Commissioners rejected they offered to leave unto the Emperour Rab and Agria onely for Strigonium exchanging as it were Strigonium for Agria which when it could not be obtaied the Treaty was broken off the wars again continued But in the mean time Michael of Valachia certainly informed his life to be sought after in the Turks Court by the ambitious Cardinall Bator his envious Neighbour by command from the Emperour with an Army of 60000 men entred Transilvania most horribly burning the Country and killing the people as he went Where while the Cardinall was making head against him he had the City Corona or Brasso with the strong Castle of Focaras yielded unto him whence marching towards Alba Julia with all his Army Octob. 26 before divided into 3 parts he came into the Plaines near 〈◊〉 where assured that his Lievtenant corrupted by Ibraim had promised to kill him with his own hands presently cut his throat By and by after came unto him the Popes-Nuntio sent from the Cardinall with another Embassadour telling him the Embassadour had Commission from the Emperour to will him forthwith to desist from Arms and depart out of Transilvania Which seeming to the Vayuod almost impossible he desired to see that Commission the Nuntio answered He had left it with the Cardinall himself But I said the Vayuod have one here present of another Purport which I purpose fully to execute yet was he for that day entreated by the Nuncio to stay his Army and in the mean time the Vayuod would know of the Nuntio Why the Cardinall so troubled the Country by intruding himself to the great prejudice of them to whom it more justly belonged not attending to the Government of the Church better beseeming his calling but he had no answer So Octob. 28. these Messengers were sent back to the Cardinall who presently returned them with rew Instructions to the Vayuod then busie with his yong Son in setting his men in Array who answered them only He was resolved to come to the tryall of a battel with him so the 2 Armies encamped near each other the same day joyned a most cruell battell for 5 hours space with desperate obstinacy fought till the Cardinalls men at length overcome were utterly overthrown 30000 of them being Turks and Tartars sent from Ibraim The Vayuod now Master of the field sent out some Troops to pursue the Cardinall divers wayes himself with the rest came to his Camp quite forsaken 45 pieces of Ordnance great store of Coyn and Wealth a great number of Tents and Horses becomming to him a prey Then marching to Alba-Julia he was joyfully received of his Friends for there were divers who still favoured the Emperour After that the Vayuod sent his Lievt to Claudiopolis which willingly yielded with many other places
turned almost all their care and Forces unto that side of the City which he had battered He appointed Lord Rusworme to prove if those Zigeth-Suburbs were not to be surprized which being taken the City could not long hold out For undertaking of which enterprize he was by the captive Turks and Country people much discouraged who nevertheless sent certain of his men to try the Lake who brought word that it was undoubtedly though with much difficulty to be passed Whereupon he with 1000 select Souldiers with every one a good Faggot on his back beside his Arms to fill up the deepest of the Marsh by night entered it wherein he had not gone far but he found it much deeper and more troublesome than his Spies had reported but carried with an invincible courage these adventurous men going still up in Water and mud unto the waste where 't was shallowest where also if one missed but a step he was over head and eares and in danger of drowning if he were not by his fellowes presently holden They at length got over but with the loss of six or seven men a little before day Whereof the Duke being advertised by a sign with greater stir than at any time before assailed that side of the City where he lay and in the mean time 〈◊〉 with Ladders provided sealed the Walls on th' other side and almost unperceived recovered the top thereof and so being got into the Suburbs with a terrible cry assailed the Turks who not well knowing which way to turn without great resistance fled into the City the Christians following them with a great slaughter in which so great confusion the Duke took the rest of the Suburbs the Turks there also for feare forsaking them and retiring with all haste into the City The Christians besides other rich prey here took 14 great pieces with good store of shot and powder The Duke now again summoned the City whereunto the Turks gave no answer but by their pieces whereat the Duke much displeased sent them word he would send them other manner of Messengers to morrow and by Gods help sup with them in the City though unwelcome So next day having made two fair Breaches into the City he with great slaughter of the Enemy entered the same though the Turks cast downe upon the Christians Darts Wild-fire c. But seeing they must needs now give place they fled amain into their Houses there to defend themselves or die many whereof they had so undermined that they could easily overthrow them and as many as should come within danger of them so that the Temple-pallace with many other sumptuous buildings were left all rent and torn yet the Bassa upon promise of life yielded himself and was sent to the Camp the rest of the Souldiers being all or most of them put to the Sword The Walloons breaking by heaps into the richest Houses both took what themselves lighted on and stript the Germans of what they had gotten yea they opened the Tombs of the Hungarian Kings to spoyl the dead of such things as were for honours-fake long before enterred with them shewing themselves therein more barbarous than the Turks The Bassa of Buda then laying a prisoner at Vieuna hearing of the taking of this City fasted with his 2 servants a whole day prostrate on his face and praying to his Prophet Mahomet who had as he said all this year been angry with the Turks Now Hassan the Turkish Generall was comming to relieve Alba-regalis and though he heard by the way that the City was won yet taking with him the Bassa of Buda with the other Commanders thereabouts and having formed an Army of about 60000 but most raw Souldiers he held on his way thitherwards both to give some content to his angry Lord and hoping to overthow the Christian Army or at least to regain the City as yet unrepaired But the Duke had presently repaired the Breaches and put therein a strong Garrison of expert Souldiers and being himself about 20000 strong set forward to meet the Bassa beginning a hot and bloudy skirmish with him yet the Bassa next day sent away part of his Army to prove if the City might be recovered himself the mean while offering the Christians battel so to busie them But the Duke informed of the basenesse of the Bassa's Souldiers although he were in number far above him went out and encountred him and at the first onset disordering his foremost Squadrons sorced the Turks to retire with the loss of 6000 men among whom were the Bassa of Buda 6 Zanzacks and divers others of good place and note The Duke also took from them divers Ordnance and had not a great squadron of Tartars appeared at his back he had undoubtedly overthrown all the Bassa's Army but now contenting himself with the Victory already gotten he retired orderly into his Trenches having not lost above 300 men Whilst both Armies thus lay supplies repairing unto them and expecting a day of generall battel the Janizaries still murmuring that it was now no time of the year to keep the field enforced the Bassa to retire to Buda and disband his Army in which retreat many were by the Christians cut off in the Rear and many taken 50 being of the French mutineers of Pappa whom Matthias at the instance of Duke Mercurie pardoned They also who were sent to attempt Alba-regalis were so welcomed with shot and charged with often sallies that despairing to prevail they returned to the Bassa that sent them About the time that the Duke began to besiege Alba-regalis Ferdinand the Arch-Duke now 30000 strong by the advise of the Duke of Mantua his Lievt Gen. resolved to besiege Canisia the recovery whereof much concerned even Italy it self Whereupon he came and encamped before it Septemb. 10. And although the Turks in Garrison not past a 1000 with their often and gallant sallies much troubled the Christians and that other bands of the Turks came many times out of the strong Holds thereabouts to skirmish with them and to see if they could put any more Souldiers into the Town yet both in the one place and the other The Turks were to their cost still repulsed and put to flight losing also some small Castles and Forts The Christians found means to dry the Marsh a little that invironed the Town and to fill it up on one side and to come so near the Town that having planted 3 tire of Artillery against it they began furiously to batter it Yea at length they approached so nigh that they came with their Trenches even close to the Town-ditch perswading the Turks now whilst they might upon good conditions to yield and so save their Lives But they braving the Christians said They would keep the place for the Sultan in despight of all their Forces Whereupon it was resolved to give a general assault In the mean time the news of the winning of Alba-Regalis caused great Joy and Triumph in the Camp the Christians
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-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
it saultable and Septemb. 24. swarming up up the Hill furiously assaulted it for 5 hours with invincible courage by the Christians endured many valiant ones falling on both sides for they came to handy-blows even in the Breaches thrice were the Turks forced to retire and still brought on again so at last 900 Christians 〈◊〉 slain with Count Oetingen their Chieftain and his Lievt mortally wounded the Turks entered the Fort slaying those few whom they found yet breathing and whence they carried certain great pieces to help batter the City and planting 30 great pieces against the Low or Water-Town they most terribly battered it which being environed with a Palisado of Wood the Turks by firing brush-Faggots stuffed with powder and brimstone burnt down making their way even to the Walls which they incessantly battered till they had made a large Breach and then not regarding the showers of Bullets matched hand to hand the Janizaries especially had undertaken this service who with their great Musquets cruelly gauled the Defendants the great Bassa was also present at the assault encouraging his Souldiers with terrour and comfort the fight was 〈◊〉 and terrible few Bullets falling in vain among such a multitude howbeit after 4 attempts most of the Christians being slain the Turks forced the rest and gained the Breach 〈◊〉 both dead Turks and Christians under 〈◊〉 to get into the City Which won and those that were left put to the Sword and the Town rifled the Turks attempted the High-Town hoping in so great confusion of the Defendants to have carried that also yet were they at present notably repulsed Wherefore underminining it their Mines in few dayes perfected violently blew up Walls Men c. smothering and burning many which Breaches so made that the Christians could not shew themselves without danger of their lives the Turks forthwith came to the assault whom the Christian Captains preparing to withstand found their Souldiers as 〈◊〉 at his most need found his not willing in any wise to sight so that none would come nigh the Walls yet the Captains prayed exhorted and sometimes threatned them with death to stir them up but all in vain during which time the Turks had without any great resistance gained the foot of the Breach Whereupon the cowardly Souldiers compassing in 〈◊〉 Dampierre the Governor would by reasons have perswaded him to yield and by threats have feared him from further resistance Howbeit he enraged continued firmly resolved his courage 〈◊〉 in this mutinous storm and by divers Expressions minded them of their Duties and perswaded them saying For his part he was resolved rather there to die with Honour than to be beholden to his Enemies for an infamous and miserable life Wherefore he besought them to follow him in this 〈◊〉 Action carrying with it 〈◊〉 the Trophies of their precedent Ones who had oft assisted him in many actions of less worth and much more dangerous But these Degenerate Souldiers stood with their hands behind them without any Weapons in them and the while some of them conceived their cowardly requests and reasons thereof into writing which they sent to the Governour which he having read tore in pieces in their fight and 〈◊〉 under his feet going himself to the Breach with some few to defend it but they now threatned to deliver him with the place to the Enemy to save their lives if he would not by Treaty save them from those eminent perils who being deaf to their requests or threats they laying hands upon him put him in prison then craved parley with the Bassa who sending in Haly Bassa it was soon agreed they to yield up the place upon safe departurewhither they would with bag baggage Ensignes frilled up and fire in their matches leaving behind them all their Ordnance Warlike provision Which Composition was now by the Turks faithfully kept among many other-like before by them broken for it being yielded Octob. the 3d. they safely conducted these Cowards within a League of Comara helping them to carry their sick and wounded with their Fardels which the Turks oft carried upon their own shoulders their Governour was also sent out with them Many Inhabitants who had there dwelt by leave remained there still the rest which would not might depart whither they would Thus famous Strigonium holden 10 years and one month by the Christians fell again into the power of the Turks These base Souldiers with their Governour come to Comara were spoiled of Honour and Arms and sent back to Presburg where being detested of all and chiefly of the revolted Hungarians themselves the chief of them were imprisoned and after some time convicted of great damnifying Treason for which they were according to the quality of their offences diversly 〈◊〉 Capt. Schleker having his right hand cut off his tongue drawn out at his neck and both nailed to the gallowes was to be hanged yet through the intercession of many he was beheaded 5 other Captains were to have their right-hands cut off and nailed to the gallows and then to be hanged but by the intercession of Count Mansfield their hands were not cut off another was to be quartered alive but by the Count's intercession beheaded then quartered 12 others were only hanged another was to serve as a common Souldier 2 years without pay but by Mansfield's means one year was pardoned divers others who fled or stayed still at Strigonium had their names set on the gallows and being caught some to be quartered others hands to be cut off nailed to the gallows then hanged But as the Sultan received the pleasing news of the winning of Strigonium in Hungary so also the melancholly report of the overthrow of his great Armies in Asia with the loss of Damasco the greatest City in Syria for first The King of Persia invaded by Cicala and hearing that the Bassa of Caramania was with all speed to 〈◊〉 to him with a great supply of Souldiers presently with a puissant Army set forward against Cicala by his unexpected coming overthrew him and took all his Ordnance Cicala with 300 Souldiers with much ado escaping to Adena which City the Persian shortly after straitly besieged upon which news Achmat forthwith wrote to the Bassa of Trebesond speedily to ayd Cicala who with a great Army set forward Whereupon Cicala being with 10 trusty Souldiers secretly by night let down over the walls came to the Bassa keeping on his way with him to joyn Battel with the King as nigh the City as he could for he had ordered that so soon as they perceived the Battel to be joined to sally out upon the backs of the Persians which the King doubting left one part of his Army to continue the siege went himself with the other to meet the Bassa falling upon him before he could put his men in 〈◊〉 made of the Turks such an exceeding slaughter that few escaped Cicala but with 2 or 3 much 〈◊〉 escaping in a small
entred the Souldiers suddenly leapt out of the packs and with the help of the disguised slew the Warders for most were gone to the marriage place of the Castle possessing the same Othoman the Captain taking his chamber took horse with Cossi and his followers to Belizuga whom the Captain presently pursued with his train most being drunk whom Othoman in the conflict slew putting the rest to flight Early in the morning also he surprised Jarchiser Castle with the Captain and his daughter which was to have been married the next day with all her friends whom he shortly married to his Son Orchanes who had by her Amurath I. and Solyman Bassa He presently sent one Durgut Alpes of great valour to besiege Einegiol Castle who used such speed that he invironed it that none could passe in or out till Othoman setting all in order at Belizuga came with the rest to Einegiol which he presently took by force cutting the Captain his enemy in small pieces for they had used the like tyranny against the Turks Now began Othoman to execute the Justice of good Lawes to all both Christians and Turks his Subjects and to protect them from the spoyl of others whereby those who forsook their Countrey through troubles repayred to their 〈◊〉 dwellings also many strangers whereby the wasted Country soon grew populous Then he besieged Isnica called Nice in Bythinia this City by placeing his men on every passage in forts that nothing could be brought in for relief he greatly distressed the Citizens in extremity certifyed the Emperour of Constantinople that they must except present relief came famish or yield The Emperour embarqued certain companies for relief of whose landing Othoman understanding lay in ambush with most of his forces near the place and slew most of them driving the rest into the Sea where they perished Othoman returning most streightly besieged it whose Citizens now despairing yielded that great and rich City to him with whose spoyl he enriched his men Of whose good successe Aladin hearing sent him a fair Ensigne Drums c. saying that all should be his own that he took from the Christians and publique prayers to be said for Othoman's health c. the Sultan's proprieties This made many think that the Sultan intended having no Children to adopt him his successor who 〈◊〉 to Aladin the 5th part of 〈◊〉 spoyl but during his life used not his princely honours intending 〈◊〉 to visit the Sultan But being about to 〈◊〉 forward he was informed of Aladin's death and that Sahib had taken on him his dignity which news much discontented him being in hope to succeed him or share in most part of his Kingdome Yet he thought it now fit to take the princely honours granted him by the Sultan in his life wherefore he made Dursu Fakiche Bishop of Carachisar who first by his command made publique prayers for Othoman as was went to be for the Sultan coyning also mony in his own name and taking all the honours of a Sultan which was about ten years after 〈◊〉 's death in 1300 to which time the Turkish Empire under Othoman is to be referred Then he made his Son Orchanes princely Governour of Carachisar and his chief followers Governours of Castles He chose Neapolis to be his regall seat calling it Despotopolis that is The City of the Lord yet he 〈◊〉 not to augment his Kingdom but accompanied with Orchanes surprized adjoyning places serving best for its enlargement The Christian bordering Princes fearing Othoman's greatnes might shortly be their confusion jointly invaded his Kingdom with fire and sword who meeting them in the confines of Phrygia and Bythinia fought with them a great battle many on both sides being 〈◊〉 and obtained a bloody Victory Castaleanus one of the greatest Christians was slain another called Tokensis he chased to Ulubad Castle not far off who for fear was delivered him by the Captain and afterwards cut in pieces in view of his chief Castle which with the Country thereabouts Othoman subdued The other Princes fled into holds farther off The Prince of Bithynia fled into Prusa now Burusa which Othoman hoped to win but finding it impossible he in one year built 2 strong Castles on the chief passages of the City placeing two couragious Captains therein thus blocking up Prusa he subdued Bythinia and so returned home honourably rewarding his Souldiers and establishing such Government that people resorted from far into his Dominions which in few years became very populous and he most famous So living in great quietnesse certain years now being old and troubled with the Gout his old Souldiers came to him with one request To take some war in hand for enlarging his Kingdom offering to spend their lives in his service c. For which he thanked them promising he would not be long unmindfull of their request But to make all safe at home first he calls to him Michael Cossi the onely Christian Captain he suffered to live in quiet to perswade him to follow Mahomet which if he refused he would war on him as his utter enemy Cossi not thinking of what ensued came with such Souldiers as he thought to use in his intended service but hearing the cause and seeing the danger 〈◊〉 Othoman's hand he requested him to enter him in Mahomet's principles which he promised ever after to embrace so saying certain words after Othoman he turned Turk Whereupon Othoman 〈◊〉 him an Ensigne and rich Robe and assured Token of his favour Who after this to content his souldiers took many bordering Castles 〈◊〉 all unto the Euxine Sea and being now aged and diseased as aforesaid he often sent Orchanes against his enemies who atchieved many great enterprizes his Father yet living The Reader may happily marvail why Paleologus and afterward his Son Andronicus suffered the Turks not Othoman but the sharers of Aladin's Kingdome to take spoyl kill and encroach especially in Bythinia as it were under their noses But let him here consider the trouble of that declining Empire and he shall plainly fee the causes of its decay 〈◊〉 Paleologus by trechery obtaining the Empire and 〈◊〉 Constantinople from Baldwin 〈◊〉 is declared fearing the Western Princes especially the King of Sicily whom Baldwin sollicited for his restitution and to marry his daughter to his Son to intangle Charls with troubles nearer home he offered to Geregory X. Bishop of Rome to conform the Greek Church to the Latine and that it should be 〈◊〉 to appeal to Romes Court as to the higher of which the Pope gladly accepted promising to keep Charls otherwise busied But when this alteration in the Greek Church should be nade the 〈◊〉 gave up his place retiring to a Monastery where he spent the remainder of his life The other Clergy 〈◊〉 their Sermons inveighed against it perswading the people not to receive it c. So that all the City and 〈◊〉 was in an uproar for many of the chief 〈◊〉 also abhorred these proceedings Whereby Paleologus leaving
〈◊〉 then sayling to Rhodes and from thence landed in Dalmatia so after 18 months painful 〈◊〉 he returned into Hungary where the contrary faction had chosen the King of Naples their King then going with an Army to take possession had 〈◊〉 Sigismund by some Nobles help prevented him There were 20000 Christians 6000 Turks slain The Count of Nivers was taken with 300 great ones who after great Contumelie before Bajazet was commanded 〈◊〉 choose 5 other Caprives and with them was sent to Prusa all the rest being 〈◊〉 in pieces before his face and ransomed afterwards for 200000 Duckets This bloody battle was in 1396. Bajazet thus relieving Nicopolis besieged Contanstinople more hardly than before building Forts c. on one side and a Castle upon the straite over against it to hinder what possible passage thereto by Sea This 〈◊〉 years siege I suppose by the History was part of the 8 years Emmanuel wearied sent to 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to which hearing that 〈◊〉 intended shortly to war upon him he the more harkened yet on condition for the Turks to dwell in a Street of the City with freedome of Religion Laws their own Judge and to give him 10000 Duckats yearly which he was glad to accept of A Temple was built for the Turks sent out of Bythinia there to dwell which when 〈◊〉 was overthrown by 〈◊〉 was pulled down and the Turks driven out Stephen Despot of a part of Servia 〈◊〉 his son sent 〈◊〉 an Embassadour with loving Letters and Royal presents by whom also the old Princesse offered her fair Daughter Despina in marriage who was promised him whilst Amurath lived 〈◊〉 being very glad thereof she was forthwith sent to him and with great solemnity shortly married He held her dearest of all his wives restoring for her sake the 〈◊〉 City and Castle and 〈◊〉 to her Brother Stephen She allured him to drink wine forbidden by their Law and to delight in sumptuous Banquets never used by his predecessours Corruption increasing in the Turkish kingdome 〈◊〉 determined to execute divers apprehended Judges whosé estate though Alis 〈◊〉 in such favour with him that the Vulgar honoured him as the King and other great ones pitied yet He dangerous to be spoken to when angry none durst intreat for them Alis requested an Aethiopian jester who many times under some jest would bolt out that in the Kings heat which his Counsellours durst not speak of in secret to devise some meanes for these Judges c. Who putting on a rich Hat wrought with gold and apparrel beseeming an Embassadour presented himself before the King with a Counterfeit gravity Bajazet asked him why he was so 〈◊〉 I have a request said he to thee wishing to find favour Bajazet asked him what it was I would fain go said he Embassadour to Constantinople To what purpose said Bajazet To crave 40 or 50 of the Emperours grave Monks and Fryers to bring thither What should they do here said he To be placed instead of the doting Judges to be put to death said the jeaster I can place of my own said Bajazet True said he for gravity c. so would the Monks c. serve but not so learned as those in thy displeasure If they be learned said Bajazet why do they contrarily pervert justice c There 's good reason said he What reason 〈◊〉 Bajazet He poynting to Alis can tell better than I said he who commanded to give the reason shewed those Judges being not conveniently provided for were inforced many times to take rewards to the staying justice Which true he commanded Alis to appoint them convenient stipends granting their pardon The Bassa 〈◊〉 down the Judge to have 20 aspers of every suite exceeding a 1000 and for every writing c. out of the Court 12 aspers taking it at this day Bajazet not long after intended to put certain Commanders to death grievously offended for a small occasion Who before him the Counsellours sate hanging down their heads not daring to speak a good word for them c. The jeaster stepping forth earnestly requested him to execute them presently as Traitours rayling on them c. Bajazet asked him why he so exclaimed thinking he could greatly accuse them Because the Knaves be good for nothing said he and they say Tamerlane is coming against us if thou take up but an ensigne and I go before with a drum I le strike up such a terrible march that we shall need none of these c. to get the Victory Bajazet musing deeply a great while and considering the jeasters drift granted them an unlooked for pardon Bajazet sending this jeaster to his Mother to bring her desired news of his successe against the Christians she began to demand how he did and of his successe He answered Very well having won a great Country enriching 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 A little after she asked him again How he did and how 〈◊〉 in his Wars He answered as before But asking the 3d time how he did Dost ask me so often said he Oh? whore thou 〈◊〉 brought forth a son like a Devil who doth nought but burn and destroy the World where he cometh She crying out up start he and was never more seen Bajazet passing over Hellespont against the Valachian who had aided Sigismund leaving Temurtases his Lievtenant at 〈◊〉 The Caramanian King came and surprized Temurtases by night fearing nothing and carried him in bonds to Caramania But Bajazet ending his Wars in Valachia he fearing released Temurtases apparrelled him richly craving pardon for his wrong and sent great presents to Bajazet to make his excuse Bajazet would not hear the Embassadour but then levied a great Army to invade him Aladin now levied all forces he could entertaining all mercenary Souldiers and at Aczae upon the way gave him battle but was overcome and put to flight in which his horse stumbling and he falling was taken and brought bound to Bajazet his 2 sons being taken also and sent to Prusa Himself was delivered to Temurtases who presently caused him to be hanged Bajazet seeming to be very sorry for he was his Sister's son He won 〈◊〉 c. with all Aladins kingdome also Amasia Cappadocia's Metropolis was delivered to Bajazet by its Prince too weak for Casi-Burchanidin Prince of Sebastia and who had solicited Aegypt-Sultan to aide him 〈◊〉 Bajazet Who led his Army towards Sebastia whose Citizens had deprived Casi for cruelty 〈◊〉 in his son but soon weary 〈◊〉 the son they sent that they would yield it to him coming that way Casis his son now fled to Nasradin his brother in-law the Citizens delivering it to Bajazet accordingly leaving Solyman his eldest son Governour So conquering Caramania taking Amasia and 〈◊〉 most of Cappadocia and all Rumilia Asiatica he wintred at Prusa who at spring Cutrum of Castamona dead came thither with a great Army wherefore his Son Isendiar fled to Synope whence he humbly requested him to suffer him to have that little City to live in
to extenuate their ranks they would be ready to skirmish and suddenly come to handiblows tumbling down upon them great stones from the Mountains their Harquebusiers through the weathers rayniness and tempestuousness serving to little purpose yet the Janizaries climbing up the hills with Pikes and driving them from their standings near the Emperors Person no 〈◊〉 hurt was done Sinan who returning had put to death the Authors of the treachery at Gaza confiscating their Goods and exacted a great sum of the People in general went to meet Selimus with his victorious Souldiers who gave to the Captains generally and particularly the 〈◊〉 common Souldiers silk Garments with a great sum of money as a reward He stayed but four dayes at Gaza and although his expedition required great haste yet his Army was to be refreshed and great provision to be made for carriage of water on Cammels backs thorow the drie solitary and light 〈◊〉 Desarts by the winde much troubling the weary passengers but such a sudden calm ensued the great rain falling few dayes before that Selimus wanted nothing no not plenty of water for the happy conduct of his Army yet the wild Arabians all along hovered about them for prey snatching up and slaying any that stragled or stayed behind but he provided an easie re-medy by placing his Field-pieces in divers parts to be upon danger discharged upon them also strong Harquebusiers in the rear-ward for defence of the weak who could but softly follow By this meanes with small losse he in 8 dayes drew nigh to Caire Sinan with his Europeans keeping a dayes journey before Into a Village called Matharea famous for plenty of excellent balm about six miles from Caire nigh the Village Rhodania Tomombeius conveighing all his new and old Artillery had drawn deep ditches a crosse the field and high way closly covering them with weak hurdles and earth and he with about 12000 Mamalukes and a multitude of Arabian Horsemen lay in convenient places that the Turks approaching might feel the force of his Ordnance before come within Arrowes shot and forthwith to set upon them disordered and entrapped so that none doubted of the success a great mischief to the Turks if the treachery of a few had not frustrated their great endeavors For 4 Epirot Mamalukes grieving at the preferment of Tomombeius whether upon malice or hope of reward c. or in that declining of their Kingdom to seek new friends fled secretly to Sinan who being born in a Village of Epirus a Sow kept in the House is reported to have bit off his Genitories being a Child sleeping in a shady place and being brought to Constantinople by the takers up of minions for 〈◊〉 Turk was presented to Mahomet the great where 〈◊〉 advanced him to his appointed honours whom she had before dismembered instructing Selimus and him especially what stratagems Tomombeius had devised whereinto they must needs fall if they forlook not the high way Wherefore by their guidance they by a great compass and unusual way came before day shewing themselves at their enemies backs in order of 〈◊〉 with their Artillery ready bent Tomombeius though above measure 〈◊〉 at the frustrating of all that he with such industry and labour had brought to pass yet being of an invincible courage entered into his wonted devices telling quickly his chief Commanders what to do the Signal for making ready was to be given the battel to be ordered the 〈◊〉 encouraged and his Ordnance to be quite contrary turned hardly at once to be directed by one and hastily to be done by many but especially the great concourse for removing of the huge iron 〈◊〉 like Ship Ordnance most troubled the well ordering of the rest with their tumultuous stir but 〈◊〉 and constancy much helped their difficulties who although twice overcome and in so suddain an accident were still of greater spirit and confidence Wherefore Tomombeius the signal being given commanded his Arabians to enclose the enemie's wings behind skirmishing with them that if possible the Turks Horsmen might be 〈◊〉 before he came to charge them 〈◊〉 his Ordnance presently to be discharged So did the Turks likewise bringing them within an arrow-shot So that for a good space they beat one upon another with their Ordnance only the Egyptians Cannoneers being almost all 〈◊〉 and many of their Field-peeces broken by the others shot For Selimus had allured many excellent Canoniers out of Italy and Germany chiefly of those Jews who were banished Spain by Ferdinand dispersing 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 those devices thorough the East Jacobus Regio Lepidi was the chief a cunning Engineer who lately through the Turks rewards revolted to 〈◊〉 But after the matter brought to battel the 〈◊〉 with a most hideous cry furiously assailed the Turks in three 〈◊〉 for Selimus keeping his wont approached his enemies in form of a half Moon Mustapha 〈◊〉 the Asians in the right wing Jonuses the Europeians in the left himself the main battel Sinan the General of the field led a 〈◊〉 number of selected Horsmen 〈◊〉 five hundred 〈◊〉 Harquebusiers ready against all uncertain events So almost at once four sharp battels were made in divers places Some present report that what for clamour 〈◊〉 of Instruments of War and rising of the 〈◊〉 all were so confounded that mistaking one another they sle v many friends instead of 〈◊〉 never battels meeting with greater 〈◊〉 nor two Kings with lesse care of their persons and safety 〈◊〉 desperately shewed their strength and courage Gazellus to requite the Eurepeians for the 〈◊〉 not far from Gaza very suriously 〈◊〉 Jonuses and at first 〈◊〉 brake his first Ranks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of his Guidons and the Arabians then pressing in behind forced 〈◊〉 victorious the flower of Thrace Thessalia Epirus 〈◊〉 and Grecia to 〈◊〉 which never enemy before saw but Sinan comming speedily in with his fresh Troops 〈◊〉 the declining battel and while he was fighting couragiously in the head of his battel he was by 〈◊〉 Bidon coming in slain to rescue whose dead body while his followers laboured they were by Gazellus unfolding his Troops most slain the rest put to flight and the five hundred choise Janizaries now destitute of Horse when they had done what was possible were compassed cut in pieces and trodden under foot in a trice Mustapha in the other wing sore pressed the Egyptians left wing which valliant Helymis the Diadare and Giapal led who had lately received great harm by Selimus his overthwart Ordnance Mustapha hereupon with his whole Troops overthrew their broken Ranks and glistering with a lond voyce encouraged his Asians by valour or honourable death to recover their honour lost in the fields of Aleppo Then also Tomombeius breaking thorow the middle battle of the Turks-Horse entered among the Foot giving many a deadly wound with his Scimitar he being big and strong The Arabians also had enclosed the uttermost of the Turks forcing them in many places to turn upon them being doubtfully charged before and
c. Many Turks were slain before aware the Citizens being numerous enough but not so well armed or conducted yet they swarmed up one of theeasi est Bulwarks of the Castle where the Turks had set upon an Ensign and with Darts and Arrows made them retire into a stronger place whence with their Artillery and small shot they wonderously slaughtered the naked Moors Barbarussa though alway acquainted with desperate dangers yet being suddenly shut upon in an unknown place and Victuals but for three dayes was not a little troubled which his care was much diminished by the enemies disorder'd fury and the known valour of his Souldiers chiefly seeing them fight still as full of hope and the Moors as half-dismayed ready to retire yet the double assault was twice as desperately renewed as at first by Muleasses and Dorax coming in in which danger Halis a runagate Spaniard said to Barbarussa that if he would save his Honour and hold that Fort they must salley out upon those which had never seen a set-battel c. Which motion generally approved of Barbarussa commanded Halis with other Captains to salley out at once at two Ports so that a multitude of Moors were soon slain Abdahar the Mesuar being killed with a bullet the assault being then given over and in the streets some hours was fought a most bloudy Battel at last the Citizens overcome took refuge of their Houses and wearied Halis with the rest returning with Victory 3000 Citizens were said to be slain and 9000 hurt Muleasses hardly escaping his enemie's hands by Dorax his Uncle's help fled with him over Bagrada River and came to Constantina then part of Dorax's Dominion and there protected till the coming of Charls the Emperour The ensuing both Citizens and Turks stood upon their strongest guard And next day the Citizens craved pardon excusing their rash attempt by the name of Loyalty offering faithfully to submit Whereupon Barbarussa granted a general peace by Oath confirmed on both sides the Citizens being bound to obey Solyman and Barbarussa as his chief Lievtenant All things set in order he won to him by gifts and rewards the fickle and needy Numidian Princes then sending an Eunuch and Halis to take in the other Cities of Tunis they were peaceably received except at Carvenna which holding out a while received them also for fear But let us return to the Wars at the same time undertaken by Solyman in person in Persia perswaded thereto by Abraham the great Bassa who being born in a Village of Epirus and taken from his Christian Parents by Turkish Tribure gatherers being a boy served Scander-Bassa in Selimus his time and there instructed in Mahometanism but giving himself to all manner of curiosity he was commended by his Mistress to her Husband as a fit Page to attemper his wayward and melancholly disposition wherein he excelling he gave him as a rare gift to Solyman with whom he was brought up as his companion and play-fellow by old Baiazet where he so framed himself to young Solyman's disposition that afterwards he wanted nothing of the Majesty of an Emperour but the Name only and commonly called the Great Commander of all Solymans Forces Also he partaked of Solymans secret Delights that if he were present all were well if away nothing pleased that 't was commonly said the soul of Solyman lived in Abraham whereat many great Courtiers repined chiefly Solymans mother and fair Roxalana his dearest Concubine This great Commander sought many times in his discourses with Solyman to perswade him to divert his Forces from the Christians over whom he had sufficiently triumphed and to turn them upon the Persians by whom he was daily injured and who were the wicked and irreligious impugners of the Divine Precepts of Mahomet also so famous in ancient time for their Martial Prowesse that the so oft vanquishing them by Alexander gave unto him the name of Great therefore he said 't was not so much to have destroyed the Mamrlukes by condition slaves as to subdue them Alleadging what a strong and Warlike people the Germans were and that it were not good to provoke Charls the Emperour of all Christian Princes the mightiest c. Solyman at length beginning to yield to his perswasions Abraham in himself greatly rejoyced for many thought he was only in shew a Turk and in heart a Christian and the rather because he very much favoured and protected the Christian Merchants and furthered by all means the Leagues of Christian Princes with Solyman labouring alwayes to turn his Forces from them upon the Persians insinuating into Solymans acquaintance one Mulcarabe of Damasco famous at Constantinople for holinesse and the Art of Magick who prophesied to him all happinesse in so religious a War and so much as he said pleasing to God Ulemas also a noble Persian who marrying King Tamasses's Sister was revolted from him to Solyman fearing to be call'd to account for extortion from the Counties where he governed furthered Abrahams purpose discovering to Solyman the power and State of the Persian Kingdom and plotting the easiest waies for conquering it he offered also to do his utmost So Solyman 〈◊〉 a mighty Army commanded them to be ready at Nice in Bythinia at a certain day His mother and Roxalana mightily impugned it as that which wholly proceeded from the Bassa but his credit was so strong that all their devices and prayers were by Solyman rejected and his Counsel regarded who with Ulemas was sent before him into Syria with a strong Army at Spring to invade the Persian wintring at Aleppo The Spring approaching Abraham sent Ulemas before with the light-Horsmen into Mesapotamia as his guide following himself not far behind and so came to Tauris unresisted great and rich but unwalled and of no strength The Persian King Tamas was then absent warring with Kezien-Bassa a Prince of the Corasine Hircanians so that the Citizens presently yielded Tamas hearing hereof drew nigh with his power expecting to take the Turks at some advantage as being too weak for a plain Battel which the Bassa perceiving speedily advettised Solyman of Iunis being taken and the enemies purpose and speedily to repair with his Army thither He was come far on his way on the right hand from Nice to Iconium and by Cesarea to Malathia where is the notable passage over Euphrates bursting out by the Valleys of Autitaurus whence Mesapotamia's plains then part of the Persian Kingdom begin to open through which he peaceably marched paying for what ever he took coming in 54 dayes from Nice to Coimini Armenia the greater But hearing such news aforesaid he soon after came to Tauris Tamas yet expecting the Georgian Light-horse men and hearing with what a multitude Solyman was coming that he might cut off his spent wanting and diseased people by advantages retired into Sultania about 6 dayes journey from Tauris which Solyman knowing departed thence without doing hurt following after Tamas to joyn Battel if possible leaving behinde him for haste
to Messana where the King's Fleet was providing But the Turks resolved to prove the utmost before the slow Christians strength were ready assuring themselves more easily of the rest Elmo Castle being once taken wherefore they began again to batter it furiously for four dayes without ceasing the night following giving a great assault almost gaining the top of the wall the Defendants driving them down with such force that they never durst set Ladder to the wall till the last conflict Dragut's Souldiers the while upon a bravery went to Martia Scala betwixt the Gallows and 〈◊〉 Thomas Road as if to do more than the rest but they of St. Angelo sallying forth they were glad after a great losse to retire whence they came Bonnemius one of the Knights and 7 others being slain Monferratus was then sent into Elmo Castle as Governour instead of Brolia sick through watching and pains taking who had oft written to Valetta that he thought it unpossible to be won The Turks not discouraged battered the Castle with greater fury than before and presently gave an assault having made a Bridge over the Ditch that ten men might go abreast placing 4000 Harquebusiers about the Ditch with their Fleet at Georges shoare not far off And hoping even presently to win the Castle Beragamus a Knight and Medranus a Spanish Captain with others ran to the Bridge with great admiration opposing the multitude the fight hand to hand being on both sides terrible a Turk advancing an Ensign on the Bulwark Medranus laid hold on it who in striving together were both slain wth a Turks Bullet Some of the 400 sent in a little before thrust Barrels of Gunpowder under the Bridge some cast down Wild-fire Stones c. on the enemy others gauling them with Harquebusses So the Bridge was burnt and blown up overwhelming 800 Turks in its fall the rest retiring most being wounded The Defendants having plucked down Mustapha's and Dragut's two Ensigns set upon the very Battlements of the Walls Toward the South-west some Turks got up to the top of the highest Rampier whom they of Angelo Castle thinking to beat off slew seven Defendants thereon but at the next shot they rent in sunder four Turks Captains and twelve the most forward Souldiers other Turks casting up a Trench on that side toward St. Angelo they were soon driven forth by fire c. cast down upon them They retired having lost 2000 of their best Souldiers almost 100 Christians were slain and as many wounded The same day Valetta had a sight Brigandine carried over Land to Martia Scala thence to send into Sicily to certifie by Letters the Viceroy and Pope what was done and the danger requesting speedy relief saying to the Viceroy Our lives lay in thy hands on whom next unto God resteth all our hope wherefore we most instantly request thee not to forsake us Garzias greatly moved seemed desirous to bring forth his whole Fleet against the Turks but seeing the supply of Ships from Genua and Spain was not yet come he sent Cardona with 4 Galleys joyning Robles Camp master with a choise Company of Spaniards also 80 Knights went wth them staying at Messana for a fit time to passe over who letted by Tempest and otherwise came not before Elmo Castle was lost yet served they in great steâ—d The Turks desperately renewed the fight first thundering day and night with their Ordnance on the Castle then assaulting the breaches with an exceeding multitude and force five houres endured that most terrible assault at length the Turks repulsed retired yet the night following they did so beat the Defendants with their Ordnance that they had much adoe to keep them from scaling the Walls the Christians lost two hundred and the Turks an exceeding number Dragut himself dying two dayes after of a blow in the Head with a stone whose body was buried at Tripolis The Turkish Commanders more and more enraged with the Christians valour and their own slaughter commanded their Fleet to compass the Castle purposing by Sea and Land to send in fresh supplies till they had taken it with great industry preparing what ever was needful for the assault which Valetta perceiving and fearing they should not be able longer to endure such a fury called his Knights together requesting them to declare what they thought best to be done for their safety whose 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 delivered a Decree was made that 12 Pinnaces should be sent to fetch them away But first 3 Knights were sent thither the night following to tell them what was agreed on and carefully to consider the state of the Castle which if the Defendants thought was to be abandoned then to poyson the water and clay the Ordnance The Knights oftentimes shot at by the Turks got into the Castle declaring the care taken of them who all gave thanks therefore saying if they considered the places straightness the few Defendants and the enemies multitude they should well perceive the danger they were in if such assaults should be 〈◊〉 renewed yet since they had hitherto felt the help of God present c. they for all the most manifest danger of their lives would keep it to the last man for perhaps the like honourable occasion to shew themselves in 〈◊〉 never be offered c. requesting the great Master not to be too careful of them but promise himself of them what beseemed resolute men The Knights having diligently viewed the Castle returned to Valetta who with his Knights heard the answer of the besieged and would needs hear the three Knights Opinion Castriot thinking the place was still to be defended c. But Recca was of another minde saying If Julius Caesar were alive he would not suffer so many valiant Souldiers to be lost but reserve his men to further service Medina said he thought it not good the place should be so easily forsaken since the Ditches and Bulwarks were yet defensible and there being so great a consent among the Defendants So it seemed good to the greater part that they should for certain dayes hold out that the enemy might see his pride abated for the Knights used not easily to abandon their strong Holds But the Turks June 23. in the dead of the night battering the rest of the Walls yet standing presently gave a most terrible assault the Defendants beating down repulsing and slaying Great were the outcries on both sides mixt with exhortation mirth and mourning it was now the third houre of the day when still the Victory stood doubtful but the very Rock bared of Walls and Defendants above four hundred being slain a man could scarce appear but he was struck in pieces Montferratus the Governour and Garas of Euboea were both slain with one shot yet the rest fought with greater force than before overthrew the Turk's Ensigns set up slaying the Ensign-bearers Captains and Colonels by which time it was noon very hot and men exceeding 〈◊〉 the Ordnance never ceasing and the enemy sending in fresh
content to yield on reasonable conditions 〈◊〉 the great Commanders of the Turks would seven times 〈◊〉 swear to perform them they willed him to set them down which were that the Cossacks might safely depart with Horses and Armour that they should send him alive and in good safety to Selimus to 〈◊〉 his own cause covenanting nothing for the Moldavians whose injury he said tended to the hurt of the Emperour himself and of him that should be Vayuod these 〈◊〉 being seven times confirmed by Oath accordingly the Vayuod brought all his Army out of their Trenches taking with heavy heart his last leave of them to their 〈◊〉 dividing his money and Jewels among them and disarming himself went onely with one Polonian like a Suppliant to the Turk's Camp talking four houres with the great Commanders till at last Capucius Bassa with his Scimitar struck him a great blow acrosse the face and another acrosse the belly whom yet but half dead the Janizaries took and cut off his Head which was set on a Lance for all to behold they tearing his body to pieces having bound his feet to two Cammels and happy was he that could get any little piece thereof or embrew his Sword in the least drop of his blood The Turks forthwith set upon the Moldavians and slew them down-right whereupon the Cossacks thrusting in among the thickest of the Turks and valiantly fighting were all slain except a few of the better sort Suiercevius being one who were afterwards for great sums redeemed when they could by no meanes be perswaded to turn Turks The Turks over-running all Moldavia put all the Nobility with many Countrey people to the Sword sending great numbers in Colonies into the farthest parts of the Turkish Empire and placing strong Garrisons in the Towns and Castles Thus all Valachia was by Selimus joyned to the Turkish Empire in 1574 opening also thereby a fair and easie way for his Successors to enter into Podolia or Russiayea and into Poland it self Selimus not a little grieved with the losse of the Kingdom of Tunis cast in his minde how to recover the same and thrust the Spaniards out of Guletta Castle of no small moment which with Malta served as two most sure Bulwarks against the Turks and Moores adventures by whose meanes they many times came short home wherefore Selimus having made great preparation commanded Sinan Piall and Uluzales speedily to passe over with his Fleet into Africk to besiege Tunis and Guletta before which they came with 300 Galleys July 13. Other Turks men of Warre from Alexandria Algiers c. 〈◊〉 unto them At first they besieged the water-Tower wherein were 800 Souldiers well provided who maintained the place till most were slain by often assaults the rest retiring by Command into the Castle the Turks losing 3000 men in taking of it Then besieging the Castle of Guletta they from divers Mounts most terribly battered it whence the deadly shot was sent again among them not sparingly but after many surious assaults and much harm done on both sides the Turks took the Channel of the Lake of Tunis and to hinder the 〈◊〉 relief assaulted them day and night without ceasing yet some Companies sent from the New 〈◊〉 got in after which the besieged sallying out Aug. 20 repulsed them with an exceeding slaughter but the Bassaes without ceasing still bringing on fresh Souldiers after a most terrible assault all day about two houres before Sun-set they took the Castle Aug. 23. scarce 200 Souldiers being alive therein who with the other weak people were cut in pieces whatever other wealth the Turks there found they had great store of Victualls Armour Ammunition and 400 Pieces of Ordnance They forthwith laid siege to the new Castle betwixt Guletta and Tunis not yet wholly finished wherein Serbellio and Salazar lay with 4000 good Souldiers Serbellio answering the Bassaes first summons Aug. 24 that he had promised the King his Master to give him a better account of the place and being also very old could not endure the Turks yoak but would hold it out to the last man which by sallies and repulses they truly persormed But the Turks little feeling or regarding the losse of men to gain the place at length Septemb 13th after six houres furious assault with all their force slaying most of the Defendants took it Serbellio shot with two Bullets would have 〈◊〉 in the midst of the Turks but by Piall's hasty coming in both he and Salazar were taken alive all the rest were put to the Sword The Bassa in his rage struck Serbellio causing his Son to be murdered in his sight yet the Turks lost above 30000 men in lesse than three moneths space Then they marching to Tunis easily took it overthrowing its Fortifications because it should no more rebel Mahomet the young King being sent with Carrera Captain of Guletta in bonds to Constantinople The Bassaes departing thence came with 400 Sail Octob. 4th within sight of Malta nevertheless they turned aside sailing directly to Constantinople Shortly after Selimns spent with Wine and Women died Decemb. 9th 1574 51 years old reigning eight buried at Hadrianople of a mean Stature heavy disposition his face swollen much like a Drunkard of least valour of the Othoman Kings leaving his Empire to Amurath his eldest Sonne more temperate but not much greater in courage The Life of Amurath the third Sixth Emperour of the Turks SElimus's Death was for fear of the Janizaries concealed by the Bassaes till Amurath speedily advertized thereof arrived at Constantinople out of Asia about 12 dayes after taking possession of the Empire in the Seraglio Decemb. 25 being about 30 or as some 27 years old of a manly Stature pale and corpulent his beard thin and long not of so fierce a countenance as the Othoman Princes being of a peaceable disposition loving justice and in his superstition very zealous reforming the riot and excesse grown by his Fathers ill example by his own and the severe punishment of notorious Drunkards yet he is reported to drink oft plentifully of Wormwood-Wine much subject to the Falling-sickness and sore troubled with the Stone and yielding more to the counsel of his Mother Wife and Sister than of his great Bassaes which many imputed to him for simplicity To appease the murmuring of the Janizaries disappointed of the spoil of the Christians and Jewes he besides the usual largesse augmented their wages and granted their Sons at 20 years old to be enrolled among the younger Janizaries and partake of their immunities whereby he won their favours exceedingly And to rid himself of all competitors he caused his five Brethren Mustapha Solyman Abdulla Osman and Tzihanger to be strangled in his sight Osman and Tzihanger to be strangled in his sight Solyman's Mother overcome with sorrow struck her self to the heart with a Dagger at which Amurath is reported to shed some teares as not delighting in such cruelty but that his State and Government so required At first he
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
〈◊〉 a most cruel fight which the Turks long endured with wondrous resolution but now destitute of their wonted multitude and hardly laid to they fled whom 6000 men fiercely pursuing had the killing of them almost to Buda The Christians took all their Ordnance 17 Ensigns and Jasperin Castle for fear was abandoned wherein was store of Victualls and much Warlike Provision Teuffenbach certified the arch-Duke of this notable Victory as soon as he returned to the siege of Hatwan as that there were 2500 Turks slain and as many wounded of whom many perished and those not a few of great name and place 8 Sanzacks being redeemed and some Chiaus sent from Court with the Bassa's Guard of 800 〈◊〉 Souldiers of whom few escaped with life that the Germans and Hungarians had agreed it should be counted a dishonour to spare any enemies so that they took but 16 common Souldiers that the Bassa of Buda besides other 3 wounds was grievously wounded in the side that the Christians lost about 100 and about 600 grievously wounded many being then dead neither was the losse small they received in their Horses and Armour The Turks in Zabola Fort now discouraged forsook the same which for strength and bigness was comparable with Tocay or Erlawan While valiant Teuffenbach thus lay at the siege of Hatwan the arch-Duke encouraged with his good success at Novigrad came with 44000 men before Strigonium once the Metropolis of Hungary and May 6th encamped nigh the Castle in a Meadow whence both City and Castle were plainly to be seen they of the Castle and three Gallies in the River discharging some Ordnance on them without any great harm but the Christian Fleet coming a little before night and beginning to answer them again the Enemy lay still that night The mean while a Turkish youth taken in a Garden and brought and examined confessed there was but 400 Janizaries in the City a supply being daily expected from Buda The Christians bringing their Trenches by break of day to a Hill opposite to the Castle placed their battery and began to batter the City on which day May 7th 22 Turks Heads were presented to the arch-Duke and 4 alive newly sent out to view the Camp About night Balls of Wild-fire being shot in one set fire on St. Adelberts Tower first the Temple then much of the Town falling on fire the Sanzacks House Horses and Armour with much Powder being burnt and exceeding hurt done in the City next day they had made a breach in the Castle-Wall but a high and broad sandy Rampier adjoyning could scarce be battered yet the Germans gave a fierce assault to the breach but not being able to get over the 〈◊〉 retired with losse The day after they began the battery again with 18 great Pieces in which morning the Rascians in the old City acquainted the Generall if he would assault the bigger City at a place they appointed they the while 〈◊〉 let the Christians by some little Posterns 〈◊〉 the old City so they nor theirs might have no violence which agreed to they assaulted it May the 11th and took the old City all the Rascians having 〈◊〉 but the Turks 〈◊〉 except such as recovered the new Town Two German Companies six hundred Hungarians three hundred Rascians and other Townsmen kept the same who burnt the Suburbs yet the new Town and the Castle was still 〈◊〉 Wherefore the Christians placing their Battery began again to batter the Castle which being made saultable they couragiously assailed the breach but were glad to retire 130 of their Fellows being slain The Turks had fortified St. Nicholas Hill somewhat subjecting the Castle which the Christians gaining May 17th put all the live Turks to the Sword and turning the Ordnance thence also battered the Castle May 22 a little before Sun-setting some Ensigns of Foot were drawn out to assault the lower Town which they attempting in the dead of the night were notably encountred by the Turks sallying forth upon them who yet forcing them to retire proceeded and with much adoe got over the outmost Wall but unexpectedly finding a deep and broad countermure they stood as dismayd and disorderly retiring in the darkness of the night many perished in the deep mud In this assault were 1000 wounded and slain and though they twice or thrice renewed it they were still with losse repulsed Many Turks were slain also yea the Governour himself hurt with a great 〈◊〉 sent to Buda with many wounded men brought newes of the assaults and state of the besieged The Camp had newes the while that Sinan Bassa coming towards Hungary with a great Army and by Boats conveying part thereof was set upon by the Rascians poor oppressed Christians dwelling on both sides of Danubius but now encouraged by the Emperours success who after divers skirmishes had taken 13 Vessels wherein besides Victualls and Ordnance they found 2400 weight of powder 44700 of Lead 46454 bundels of Match 1200 great shot Harquebusse shot 48500 with much other Warlike Provision whereupon Sinan altered his purpose for Cassovia June 4th about 500 Turks conducted up the River by two Sanzacks landed near Gakara on the farther side over against Strigonium where a while refreshing themselves and a few left the more to assure the place all the rest arrived at Strigonium the old Garrison being now soare weakened the Turks herewith encouraged four dayes after suddenly sallying forth entred a Fort of the Christians but were repulsed with the losse of 26 men and two Ensigns The Christians often assaulted this City but were so received that in five assaults they lost five thousand men among whom were divers Commanders of good account 23 Cannoniers were also slain and ten great Pieces of Ordnance made unserviceable This Garrison consisted most of Janizaries whose notable valour in holding out was much commended by their friends and enemies About the same time some Turks lighting on a Germane Troop slew about 50 putting the rest to flight which raising an Alarm many ran with some small field-Field-pieces to rescue them whereupon the Turks fleeing the Christians eagerly pursuing them were assailed by other Turks sallying out of a Fort fast by and forced to retire leaving their Field-pieces which the Turks cloyed breaking their Carriages About which time Teuffenbach requested ayd of the Arch-Duke against Hatwan for that his forces were one way or other so weakened that he had scarce 600 sound men who spared him but 1200 Foot because of too much weakening his own Army Amurath seeking by all meanes revenge besides his own great power now about to come with Sinan had procured 70000 Tartars from the grand Cham to be sent into Hungary to joyn with his Army who breaking into Podolia Walachia and Moldavia collected a huge number of Oxen and Kine that they might be both assured of Victualls and the saflier travel thorow a part of Polonia but being come to those borders they found Samoschi the Chancellour and the Cossacks in Arms wherefore
to flight and all the booty recovered Then also an Imperiall Colonel inroading about Alba-regalis with 1500 Horse slew 600 Turks and Tartars and took divers of their Captains 6000 other Tartars also now returning homewards out of Hungary were so set upon by the Cossacks near the Black-sea that many being slain the rest ran into the Sea leaving all their prey to their Enemies In the heat of these broils Lord Palfi died in his Castle of Biberpurg March 23. to the great grief of many chiefly the Hungarians his Countrymen the Emperour appointing Lord Swartzenburg Governour of Strigonium in his stead the fame still running that Ibraim would come thither with a great Army if the peace went not forward which was less and less hoped for by reason of his proud demands But while these and such like troubles passed in divers parts of Hungary 1200 French and Walloons in Garrison at Pappa mutined for want of pay Wherefore the chief Commanders thought good to have them removed but they knowing themselves too strong for the rest of the Garrison first resolved to thrust their own Captains out of the Town then laying hands on Marotti the pay-Master and other Hungarian and Dutch Commanders Souldiers disarmed them casting Marotti the Captains and some of the better sort of Souldiers into Irons exacting of the rest in number about 1000 1000 Duckats else threatning to deliver them up to the Turks and though Marotti offered 1800 Duckats for his own liberty they spoiled him and the rest of all furnishing the Turks their prisoners with their Apparel and Weapons and sending them away to Alba regalis and afterwards rifled every mans House compacting also with the Turks of Alba regalis and Buda for the pay which they said the Emperour owed them to deliver them the Town and promised if Swartzenburg came as he was to come with mony to the Town to deliver him and it into their hands or for more surety they might intercept him at the passage Zesnegkh whereby he must come and for their more credit they sent an Ensign to them to Alba-regalis who for all that did not altogether believe them yet they sent them 2 Chiaus as Hostages for whom they sent 2 other of the better sort of them concluding that June 25. at furthest the mony should be paid and the Town delivered June 10th Swartzenburg with 2000 Horse and Foot came within 2 miles of Pappa sending 24 Horsmen to disswade them from yielding the Town to the Turks telling them they should shortly have their pay who sent them back shamefully derided so that Swartzenburg retired again to Rab till some greater strength were come unto him Immediatly after Dr. Petzen Counsellour for the Wars was by Matthias conducted to Pappa with 400 Horse to see if by his discretion he could disswade them from their purpose whom they both refused to hear though he spake most kindly and also threatned to shoot him if he did not forthwith depart Shortly after 20 Hungarians imprisoned in a Cellar brake out and came to Rab telling them the French and Walloons were at variance about the yielding up Pappa So that they in the Castle and Town shot at each other and that they had already received 〈◊〉 Duckats with some Victuals and were shortly to receive the rest of the mony from the Turks and so to deliver up the Town Wherefore Swartzenburg Jun. 22. sent Lo. Sharpsenstein a French Col. with 3000 Souldiers some Petards and many scaling-Ladders towards Pappa whom they suffered peaceably to enter June 24. encouraging them to come on calling them Countrymen Brethren and shaking them by the hands telling them They desired but assurance of their pay but having received in so many as they thought good they shut the rest out cutting these all in pieces and then in derision called upon the High Dutch to come on Likewise 300 of these Rebels had then laid themselves in Ambush by a Mill without the Town were charged by the Walloons and Haiducks discovering them yet for the shot from the Town they could do no good upon them but retired having lost 300 men the Lievt Generall and the chief Engineer being 2 of them About 3 dayes after 3 of these Rebels being by chance taken and brought to Rab were not only apparrelled but trimmed like Turks their fellows also imitating the Turks fashions in Apparel and manner of service yet would they not yield the Town to the Turks before they had the full sum agreed on the Bassa of Bosna being commanded in haste to provide it and receive the Town but they received into the Town a Turkish Ensign with some Wagons of Victuals so strongly convoyed that the Imperialls durst not meddle therewith in which Wagons they sent in bonds 600 Hungarians and Dutch Men Women and Children to Alba Regalis whereof they were glad hoping to finde more favour at the Turks hands than they had with these renegate Christians Shortly after they sent Messengers to the Governour of Alba to know his full resolution who conducted by Turks of great account were by the way taken by the free Haiducks with 100 Turks more Marotti the while by Letters secretly advertised Swartzenburg of a place whereby he might easily enter and the rather for that the Rebels were at variance who July 12th came to Pappa with 9000 Horse and Foot but disappointed of entrance yet hardly belayed the Town on whom the mutiniers sallying out valiantly encountred them but were still without any notable losse beaten back again In one of their sallies a Captain was taken who was slain quick and his Head and Skin set upon a Pike for his fellows to behold But Swartzenburg more and more prevailing they sent secretly to the Turks for ayd whereof he hearing sent for three Regiments more to come to him whereby he well strengthned and approacling nearer took the Mill whereby the Rebels thought the more easily to have received ayd from the Turks who were letted to relieve them by the rising of the water that had spoiled all the Provision at the Bridge of Esseg and also hindered their march The Imperials at last came even to the Town-ditches with their Trenches having let out the water where some Townsmen escaping out declared that the mutinous within laboured day and night to fortifie the Town but were much letted by continual assaults also that now they had no Victuals left but a little Salt and sixty Horse of which they had begun to eat c. July 29 they desperately sallied out upon the Trenches of a Dutch Captain slaying many of his Souldiers being drunk and driving out the rest whereupon Lord Swartzenburg hastning thither to the rescue was with a Musquet shot struck in the Head and slain which the Rebeis knowing of Dela Mota their General gave the salliers 1000 Dollars in reward His dead body was honourably interred at Rab. The like salley they made next day slaying 130 Imperials and taking some and in their retiring
of Basta making choice of a most fit time for the performance thereof for Basta upon the trust he now had of the Transilvanian's allegiance being with a small power come from Claudionopolis then laying at Wiscebourg upon the confines of Hungary the Transilvanians believed that through the necessity of his presence in Hungary he should stay there for that year as the Emperour 's General◠whereupon many both of the Nobility and others before by Moyses prepared and now by his presence encouraged joyned themselves unto him against the Imperials Moyses first forced a Castle about three Leagues from Wiscebourg and slew all the Garrison which exploit encouraging him and full of hope in the absence of Basta he as Master of the Field forraged robbed and spoiled besieging Wiscebourg a small Town neither by art or nature strong howbeit it held out three weeks siege and having a breach made in the Walls endured two Assaults After which the besieged out of hope to be relieved by the weak forces of Basta yielded to him the Town upon saving their lives and goods and so departed to 〈◊〉 Albeit the Haiducks failed not to follow these Warres in Transilvania and were ever taking some prey from the Enemy the chiefest meanes whereby they live not a little also easing thereby the Countrey by repressing the excursions and pillages of the Turks where among other prisoners they lighted upon a Chiaus come from Constantinople going toward Moyses from the Sultan Mahomet who examined confessed that Moyses was in great grace with his Lord and Master of which he was sent to assure him as also of all the needful assistance of his Prince if he should bring Transilvania under his subjection as he had promised sworn whereby he should not onely gain credit but be made Lievtenant Gen. of the Sultan's Army there he said also that Mahomet had on foot an Army of 150000 men to conquer Pesth and Strigonium which had already made towards Hungary had it not been for some Rebellion whom for all that he would soon chastise and turn his whole Forces upon the Emperour Moyses finding much Ordnance in Wiscebourg resolved to besiege Basta in Sosinnar whither Basta came with his small forces But he better acquainted with Martiall affaires than Moyses thought best first to take order for strengthning of the place and then to provide as he could for the safety of himself and his wherefore he advertising the Governour of Cassova of his necessity he presently commanded six Companies of Horsemen to thrust into Sosinnar for the better defence thereof who either fearing or favouring the Rebels Army without any attempt at all given returned to Cassova much provoking the Countrey by the way by their pilfering and out-rages but now craving pardon of their Governour who was about with the rest of his power to cut them in pieces they offered him six principall Authours of their disloyalty who were forthwith executed and their quarters hanged upon Gibbets by the high way side but Basta the while was without succour and the place wherein he lay in danger of taking howbeit the TRANSILVANIANS thereabouts resolved to relieve him both for fear of the TURKS bondage and of the tyranny of MOYSES one of whose Secretaries with Letters of Credence threatned all the Countrey with all kind of miseries if they helped not with all their power to force and win the place Amongst others RADOL of VALACHIA raised immediately eight thousand men which he presently sent to the relief of Basta Moyses hearing hereof and also that Basta having well fortified the place was departed assuring his men there left to relieve them and that he was gathering together his Army of himself raised his Siege and departed whom the TURKS forthwith forlook being called back by the Bassa of Temeswar to repress the Haiducks who in the absence of most of the Garrison had desperately assailed those Suburbs slaying all they found there and rifling and burning them and so returned to VERADIN yet not so contented were every day abroad seeking after new booty which caused the Bassa to call the TURKS home into their Garrisons Moyses notwithstanding was yet Master of the Field Basta not daring to oppose him the Succours from Valachia being not yet come which he daily expected yet there were many hot skirmishes betwixt the stragling Souldiers on both sides as they met seeking after booty Moyses therefore laid siege to Claudionopolis a great but weak City and for that cause not very well manned Howbeit the Souldiers and Inhabitants standing upon their defence Moyses was constrained to batter it and in very short time had made a very fair breach ready now to have given the assault whereupon the besieged gave up the City the Citizens having life goods liberty and Religion saved and to stay there still and the Souldiers with Arms and Baggage to be safely brought over the Mountains into some place of surety The Rebell much encouraged resolved to make this the Seat of his Principality The Turks and Tartars allured with the smell of riches repaired thither on every side so that Moyses's Army hope and fortune encreased sending to Temeswar for his Wife and Family to come to him to Claudionople with a Convoy of four hundred Turks who being come thither and about to have led the Wife and Family out of the City were not suffered by the Janizaries so to do telling him The Sultan had found so many disloyalties treacheries and treasons in the Hungarians Transilvanians and Valachians that doubting of the fidelity of Moyses he was resolved to keep this gage for more assurance and that they should receive nothing from him but favour so long as he received from Moyses the effects of his loyalty but he should never hope to enjoy them but in Temeswar or some such like place assured for his service Moyses astonied was much moved against the Sultan complaining in his soul that having ruinated his faith honour and the welfare of his Countrey to assure him of his fidelity he yet doubted of his constancy c. In the mean time the Valachian-Succours were upon the borders of Transilvania under the Conduct of Marsa the Vayuods Lievtenant and Basta was gathering together his forces hourly expecting 2000 Horsemen out of Silefia wherefore Moyses marched with 30000 men to cut off the Valachians before they could come far into Transilvania or joyn with Basta learning the place where they were to enter their numbers and the way they were to hold so the Valachians being but 8000 and the Turks and Tartarian Horsemen being at their backs must needs fight or die Necessity indeed gave courage to the weaker side yet the greater number at length prevailed so that after a great fight wherein a great number of Turks and Tartars were slain the Valachians left their dead Companions with Tents and Baggage and fled yet often making stands The Rebels now fearing no harm divided the spoil filling the Heavens with the noise of Trumpets
retire to Cochina 30 French Leagues off it being the strongest place of Moldavia far from Enemies and near Poland so next day he marched and came thither in 4 days in the extreamest cold then he sent to all his Friends and Confederates speedily to come to succour them ordering the while to provide all Necessaries for his Army The Bassa hereupon marched with Michna and Stephano towards Yas but many through cold dying on the way they stayd till a milder time At March L. Tischevich came to Alexander with 3500 Cossacks and within few days L. Potoskie Nephew to him who was taken at the first Battel with 1500 well armed Polonians other succours came also so that by the end of this moneth he was 10 or 12000 strong who sending forth one thousand horse with his French Cavaliers to discover the Enemies Army they staying to refresh themselves 〈◊〉 way from Espanocha where Michna's Tartars lodged These with many Turks presently invested them who though little hope to withstand so many behaved themselves very 〈◊〉 fighting from 10 in the morning till night but 7 Polonians and 5 French escaping the rest being slain or taken Mountespin the French Captain being one whom they would have sent with the rest to the Galleys but Stephano preserved him upon promise of his good service About the end of Aug. 1616. six Jesuits setled at Pera at the perswasion of Henry the 4th King of France were accused before the Visier to be Spies to Spain to absolve Renegadoes baptize Turks conceal fugitive slaves sending them into Christendom Objecting also the killing of Kings if Tyrants which had been written by a Spaniard of their coat all capital crimes They were thrust into a Dungeon and with them a Franciscan Vicar to the Patriarch of Constantinople whereinto the while the Embassadors entred to renew the Truce with Drums beating and Ensigns displayed Some who thought to erect Trophies by the Jesuits ruine making use of this Entry falsly advertized that many thousands of Christians in Greek and Turkish Habits came with him to execute the Jesuits project also informing the Visier and Muphti that the Temples in Pera and Embassadors houses were full of arms and now when as the Turks Estate chiefly Constantinople was unprovided of Forces as having Armies in divers places they meant to draw the Greekes into Rebellion and give entrance to the Cossacks by the Black Sea The Sultan commands all to wear the habit of their own Nation forbidding to wear any Hat except the Franks and they to wear a Greek Habit enrolling also all Christians in the City and Pera yet not thinking Constantinople free from danger he commanded all the Franks to be slain which took not effect The Grand Visier and Muphti representing unto him that by this cruelty he should draw upon his estate a dangerous War from all Christian Princes but he walks up and down the City all night on Horseback causing the Fryer Vicar to the Patriarch to be executed in his sight and expresly forbids passing from Constantinople to Pera or hence thither So that the French Embassadour having passed from Pera to solicite the Jesuits Liberty returning found a stop going to the Muphti and leaving his People at the Sea-side for they use to go to him with a small train during which time a multitude ran to see them thinking surely they went to put them to Death they lamenting their misery and the Turks furiously charging them with conspiracy but the Visier sending a Writing by one of his own to the Keeper of the passage the Embassadour with his train was let pass but being at Ptra one night the People fell into an exceeding fury upon a Subject of small importance Not far from the Embassadour's house there happen'd a dispute in a Lodging betwixt some who watched about some Imployment whereat the Turks awakened ran to Arms in the Street 1000 in all crying out The noise came from the Frankes that is from Italians French Spanish English and Others who meant to Rise resolving to force the Embassadour's House and put all to Fire and Sword But some better advised perswaded them to stay till Day and then the Embassadour got the Sultan to interpose so brideling their insolency But the Jesuits remained in the Dungeon till the French Embassadour had lett the Visier see their innocency procuring their Liberty the Sultan by his Letters Pattents publishing the falsehood of the malitions accusations against them yet to avoyd the fury of a blind multitude they went to Sea for France but were again committed at the Dardanelles through some advertisement to the Sultan to the same effect who being informed truly of their honesty freed them recalling 2 to Pera to live as formerly Though the Bassa and Stephano were puft up with Alexander's losse near Cochina yet Michna hearing he there would defend himself had no joy thereof for an Italian had foretold to him If ever he fought with the Polonians he would be in danger of his Life wherefore by his Chancellour's and Camp-Master's advice he pretended he heard from his Lievtenant There are many Tartars entred Valachia and spoyling it So he returned onely with 100 Horse for his Guard But Stephano to mock Michna writing to him that he had slain 6000 Polonians upon the Place and taken a great number whom they would send to the grand Seignior he was so discontented that he beheaded his Chancellour and Camp-Master charging them to have secret intelligence with the Poles About the end of March the Bassa Stephano and Monoza a Tartar advancing with 20000 Men towards Cochina made a stand within 2 Leagues for refreshment the Princes the while put their Army in Order in a Plain near Cochina leaving 1000 choyse Horse in the Town under Coreskie as assured that the Turks would Camp betwixt the Town and Army that ifdefeated they might not retire into the very strong Fort They planted also 8 Cannons in a Trench covered with a Wood. The Bassa informed they had not half so many Men arrived by 7 in the Morning nigh Cochina where making a stand to discover the Princes Army he encamped betwixt it and the Town the Tartars desiring to be revenged of the Cossakes intreated to have the Point and so advanced towards a Battalion of them not distrusting the unseen Cannon which playing upon them overthrew a great number terrifying the rest So that the Cossakes furiously cut them in pieces and so retired Seeing Valachians and 〈◊〉 come to succour them whom Tischevich with his 15 or 1600 horse coming to encounter they advanced bravely towards the Princes Canon The Combat being long and doubtful the Turks Marshal sent 3000 Turks to succour them and the Princes caused a Squadron of Cossacks and Moldavians to advance who forced the Turks to retire above 100 paces then Alexander cryed out Now my Companions the Enemy is in disorder let us charge them resolutely and the Victory is sure So advancing with the rest he discharged two Canons as
gave thanks to God and were very joyfull Soon after News came to Yas that the Sultan had appointed 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Moldavia much better than Valachia sending Skinder Bassa with a powerful army to settle him and expel Alexander And June 25. 1616. he came to Tergovist where was Michna with great preparations the Bassa entred with 30 or 40 Musicians on horseback making but silly musick and many Pages who for cloaks ware Leopards Lions and Tigers skins his army being about twenty thousand men Turks and Tartars to whom Michna joyned with ten thousand horse and 〈◊〉 Being come into the Castle after many complements the Bassa and Michna entred into a great Hall where he presented him his Letters Patents and a Robe his Master had sent him Michna putting it on in presence of his Nobles and being proclaimed Prince and Vayuod of Moldavia with many ceremonies Then Michna led the Bassa into another great Hall where was a Feast prepared offering to serve him but he made him sit down right against him July 2d they marched into Moldavia but the Princess Alexanders Mother maintained that the Bassa came onely to bring the Patents to her Son by reason of Bassa's former Letters was the cause of their utter ruine About which time Zolchelchy the Polish Kings General through Envie and private Interest wrote to Michna and the Bassa if they would promise him to procure the eldest Son of Simeon living with him to be Prince of Valachia he would so weaken Alexander's Army that he must yield or flee which granted he wrote to some Cossack Captains to come speedily into Poland to go with Uladislam their Kings Son chose Duke of Muscovie who would go thither with a great Army through some crosses and they should be very well paid Wherefore concealing that Invitation they began to mutiny saying If they had not money speedily they would be gone 8000 of whom went early in the morning with great store of cattel and the spoils they had gotten Likewise Bicho Alexanders General whether through fear or being corrupted retired toward the Enemy with two thousand horse Hereupon many advised Alexander to retreat yea Michna for fear of his false Prophets fore-warning wrote and advised him to retire into Poland before his Army approached nearer Alexander went to counsel July 25. but they could not resolve most of the Army demanding their pay or they would not fight which they took for a pretext of retreating The mean while Michna's Vanguard of Tartars approaching made them march from Yas towards Cochina but the Tartars having notice went and charged them in the Rear where Potoskie having slain many with his own hand was at last slain with an arrow ' Tischevich coming speedily with a Troop of Cossacks suriously slew 800 Tartars on the place routing the rest Alexander answered Michna's Letter That contrary to his promise he had craved aid of the Turks to dispossess him of Moldavia to which his predecessors never laid claim neither could they according to the Laws and Conventions when the Moldavians submitted to the Sultan none to be Vayuod there unless there born also he minded him that he might have dispossessed him of Valachia when he entred Bonza which he would not sending him all his rich moveabls and that if he abused his present Power God would not let him go unpunished and though his Army were far lesse than his yet he feared them not putting his chief confidence in the Almighty who had used them oft to abate the Turks Pride which he should abhorre if a true Christian rather than joyn to satisfie his ambition Skinder Bassa seeing this Letter and incensed Commanded his Lievtenant to pursue the Poles with 12000 choyse Men who being then at Cotnard Alexander hereupon made them advance towards 〈◊〉 at which time Cherban's Chancellour who came with 150 Horse to assure him that his Master was coming with 5 or 6000 to ayd him was pursued by the Turks near Yas onely himself and one more escaping So that Alexander could have no sure News of Cherban Coreski also who stayed with 2500 Horse not far from Cotnard was encountred by a great Troop which he could not discover for a little Mountain he charged some of them But one Troop being defeated another succeding he must retreat yet he slew almost 6000 Enemies not above 250 of his own being lost The Turkish Commander amazed hereat collecting his Men joyned with 15000 others sent from Yas approaching very near to the Polonians where encouraging his Men he sent a Challenge to Coreski by a Captain whom he confest the most Valiant of all the Polonians who coming and delivering his Charge Coreskie though he could not stand or sit on Horse-back for his wounds would have accepted the Challenge if Alexander and the rest had not caused him to excuse himself through indisposition shewing what the event of such a Combat did import the Princesses also instantly intreating and his dearest Spouse who was much afflicted for his wounds Tischevich intreated leave of Alexander that he might accept thereof for his cousin Coreskie which grantred he sent to know if the Turks General would own it which he did knowing what Tischevich was The Combat was to be betwixt the Armies within a quarter of a League of each other and neither Party to be assisted The Turks General being about 50 paces from his Army washed his Mouth Eyes Nose Ears and privy Parts believing after his Law that it would serve as a purifying then praying toward the East and so mounting richly Armed and Furnished marched softly towards Tischevich who attended him they began with Bowes and Arrowes not hurting each other till Tischevich shooting the Turk thorow with a Petronel in his striving to rise he rodd over him wounding him in the right Arm and at next blow slew him then cutting off his head he carried it to Alexander The Poles were very joyful and the Turks much amazed advertising the Bassa and Michna they must bring all the Army and Cannon if they would be revenged In the mean time Bicho the Traytor with 2000 Tartars and Moldavians got before the 〈◊〉 to hinder their passage from Cotnard to Michna's Army investing them on the right hand and the Turks behind so that they had but on the left a Wood to favour their retrait who being so invironed Resolved to Fortifie themselves with their Ca t s and Carriages but they were but 5 or 6000 to 22 or 23000 as they were thought to be true Cherban and Bossi were within 2 dayes journey with 10 or 12000 Men which made the Enemy the more to advance who coming near their Camp and desiring onely to take the Princes and Princesses prisoners with the chief Nobles summoned the Polonians to deliver them into their hands the rest to depart with Bag and Baggage But they all answered They would rather die than commit such base treachery Hereupon some Canons were discharged a great number of Poles being slain and wounded
These shooting to small purpose with their small pieces all their bullets being spent and part of their powder lately burnt by accident Tischevich thus enclosed furiously with five hundred of the most valiant horse forced thorow 3 or 4 Squadrons set in guard by the Wood side overthrowing all they encountred Correskie would not have failed so to do and carryed Alexander with him but he could not sit on horseback also he had rather die than leave his Wife in that extremity so he disguised himself giving out he escaped with Tischevich as did the Princesses that if to be ransomed to go for common persons The Turks Cannon having overthrown many of their Carriages two Squadrons of Tartars and Turks in two places came to force their Camp who thereupon laid down arms crying aloud They yielded The Enemy was very glad as very desirous to take the Princes prisoners and dispose of the rest who entring their camp and seizing on what they could Alexander and Bougdan were delivered to Skinder Bassa who leading them to Constantinople for fear of perpetual Imprisonment they became Renegadoes But Bougdan being circumcized dyed and his Mother was confined to the old Seraglio Coreskie through disguise was led to Yas among the common souldiers where he was afterwards discovered by a souldier of his own party who got his liberty and freedom thereby the Turk who had gotten this Prince led him to the Bassa who recompencing him well made both him and the Souldier swear not to tell it to any for he intended to draw some great Ransom from him knowing if he carried him to Constantinople the Sultan would imprison him and so he should have no benefit but another false Polonian told Michna thereof who was so 〈◊〉 that he told the Bassa before many He certainly knew Coreskie was among his slaves for whom the G. Seignior would call him to account He answered he would be glad of that but he had yet no notice of him thanking Michna for his caution and fearing the event of Coreskies escape for a Ransom he told Michna next day that Coreskie was found disguised whom he would present unto his Master with Alexander and Bougdan as he did Coreskies Wife disguised and disfigured with her nailes and otherwise fell into the hands of a Tartar Captain with many others who carried her into Tartary where she was inhumanly intreated Cosmo the G. Duke's Galleys parting from Ligorne this year they drew near Cerigo April 25. where meeting with some Christian ships they heard 〈◊〉 in Chio the Turk had prepared 2 Galleys to passe into Barbary Inghirami resolving to set upon them by cover of the night cast Anchor under Castle-Roux but the Moon shining discovered him to the Turks who advertising the 〈◊〉 they began to flee one rowing a main towards Land and the other speeding her course at Sea Inghiramie's Galley got before that going to land being followed by St. Stephens Galley grapling with it 3 hours and striving to enter but the Turks defending it valiantly they were above an hour fastened together hewing each other furiously yea the Turks entring Inghiramies Galley fought valiantly upon the Hatches but at last the 〈◊〉 took her yet with much loss It was the Iron Galley of that famous Pirate Amurath Raise the Captain Mustapha Celebi a Portugall being taken but sore wounded The other was the Captain Galley of the said Raise commanded by the Bey of Mitylene called Amurath this was infested by 2 Florentine Galleys the Combat being no less furious than the other but after some hours fight the Florentines had the Victory Amurath being slain and Mustapha whom these Galleys carried to Algier They were great Galleys well furnished and manned with 420 Janizaries practised in Piracies 240 Turks were taken 430 Christians freed They also recovered a Cannon and 2 Sacres of St. Johns Galley and a Sayl of the G. Duke's Captain-Galley which Raise had formerly spoiled the rich commodities taken were valued at 200000 Crowns but the Florentines had 223 men wounded and 35 slain which made Inghirami return to Ligorn But the Emperour's Embassadour coming to Constantinople was because the peace concluded at 〈◊〉 Torok in 1606 was somewhat altered by divers Interpretations made of those Articles and this year in March the Embassadours of both Emperours assembled at Vienna wherethey concluded upon divers Articles to remove all pretext of controversie in their explication but Embassadours had first been mutually sent to Constantinople and Prague with royal and rich Presents The peace made at Situa Torok was to be observed for 20 years compleat beginning at the date of those Presents which were signed and sealed by Embassadours on both sides March 1. 1616. Of these Articles extracted out of Achmat's Letters Pattents and of an accord for execution of the same touching the Villages in controversie and razing Fortifications thou maist read at large in the 1362 1363 and 1364 pages of the Turks History Alexandrina Wife to P. Coreskie being led captive unknown to Bialigrot in Tartary there received many indignities being with child yea while she lay in which was 5 or 6 months after her taking There was also one Jaques a Polonian Souldier under Coreski who though he might by her discovery have purchased his own freedom yet he would not Wherefore the Princess the Tartarian being one day absent told Jaques That having found him faithfull she would direct him how to redeem himself from captivity so he would observe what she did prescribe who promising so to do yea with the hazard of his life She said Thou knowest the Tartar whose captives we are hath an elder Brother very rich who is lately become blind and deaf through a great defluxion into his eyes and eares for which his Brother seems much afflicted I have a Jewel which my Husband gave me when we were made sure which I much esteeming have hid sometimes in my hair sometimes in rags since my captivity for he assured me it had many and singular Vertues and that it would restore the sight and cure deafnesse so 't were not natural or too inveterate I will give thee this Stone when thou hast sounded the Tartar whether he will free thee if thou dost cure his Brother making him swear solemnly not to retain it that thou mayest restore it me unknown to him She said also Thou must demand of the sick man a Horse Money and Passeports to go into thy own Country that thou mayst go speedily to my dear Husband where ever thou shalt hear of him and bring me an Answer of my Letters if possible Jaques having sworn to perform all she gave him the Stone who finding the Tartar one day much afflicted with his Brother's infirmity told him He knew how to cure him without pain or taking any thing inwardly I believe nothing said he for all the Physitians in the Country could not do it yet if he could he promised to free him without Ransom and give him whererewith to conduct him