fear also upon the sea-coast of Apulia all along that side yea upon Venice it self so that they new fortified garrison'd both the City their frontiers For every ship or galley looking out was presently surprized so that the Venetians seemed rather to quake for fear than as wont gravely to consult how to repulse the enemy yet they strongly fortified the bank defending the City from the sea keeping 12000 men in readiness in Venice for its more assurance All the Turks Fleet met together departed from Aulona Aug. 26 to Corcyra Partau landing 800 Horse 1000 Foot doing great hurt and burning the very Suburbs of the City but the Garrison Souldiers sallying out with 1000 Horse and 500 foot slew a great number one being Rays a man of great name Thus the Turks having done much harm enriched with spoil carrying away 15000 captives arrived in the Bay of Corinth now the gulf of Lepanto When this Fleet first put into the Adriatick Venerius the Venetian Admiral laying with 50 Galleys at Corcyra departed thence to Messana the more commodiously and safely to attend the coming of Don John with the Spanish forces Columnius meeting him with 12 galleys which the Duke of Florence had sent for aid 3 Malta galleys Ere long Quirinus and Canalis came thither with 62 Galleys and in short time the Galleys of Sicily at last came Don John in the latter end of August with the Spanish Fleet about 24 years old wanting no honourable parts his mothers blemish only excepted The Venetian and Pope's Admiral went to meet him all the heaviness of his long-staying being turned into triumph and joy with a most assured hope of Victory The Venetian Fleet consisted of 108 Galleys 6 Galleasses 2 tall Ships and a great number of small Galliots 12 Galleys of the Pope being joyned to them under Columnius Don John and Auria had 81 Galleys 3 being from the Knights of Malta In the Fleet besides Marriners were reckoned 10000 fighting men old beaten-Souldiers being almost throughout that Army intermixed divers coming as voluntary men who being noble persons had many favorites and followers strong and of their own charge bravely armed and seeking for no pay but honour of Victory or to spend their lives for defence of the Christian faith Of these honourable and resolute men Fernesius Prince of Parma whose untimely death in the Low-countries even his honourable Enemies lamented Maria Prince of Urbin Ursinus of the Family of the Ursini at Rome were of greatest mark A Councel was now called to which was admitted only Don John the General Rechizenes or Requizenius the Generals Lievtenant or rather Directour Venerius Barbadicus General proveditour to him and one Secretary Columna the Pope's Admiral with Colonna his kinsman the chief point to resolve on being Whether they should adventure a battel against so strong an enemy or only seek to defend their own Frontiers Requisenius speaking first said The Enemies strength was before battel necessarily to be known wherefore delay was to be used lest improvident care overthrew all highly commending the advice of Scipio Africanus who counselled great Commanders not to sight with the enemy but upon some great advantage or forced by necessity shewing they had neither and propounding to them the uncertain events of things and the enemies strength by sea and Land much exceeding theirs and what a heap of miseries was like to overwhelm the Christian Commonweale if they should miscarry in any thing he said Safe advice was to be preferred before that attended with greater danger But the Venetians Venerius and Barbadicus most instantly requested the General and the rest so soon as opportunity served to commit the matter to triall of a battel saying If desire of honour moved them not should not the spoiling of their Frontiers the insolency of their enemies which they encreased by delay move them So urging battel from many Arguments then they began to entreat beseech them not to suffer the Christian Commonweale to receive loss upon loss but to repose their only hope in the good success of one worthy battel and never look for the like opportunity if they let slip the present After a thorow-debate They heard the opinion of other notable Captains in the Fleet Whereof Cornea and Sebellio Spaniards being asked With most substantial reasons declared the necessity of giving battel and that it was not so dangerous as to be shunned or delayed since the violent enemy must not fight at sea as at Land with his huge multitude of men which their opinion generally well liked of was soon after by the General and the rest approved and a resolution taken to give battel which known every day seemed to the rejoycing Army nothing but a delay of a most assured Victory Next day the Admirals brought forth their Fleets into the open sea Auria was placed in the right-wing with 53 Galleys Barbadicus with so many in the left in the middle stood the General with 70 Galleys on his right hand Columnius on his left Venerius betwixt the Wings and middle-Battel was space but for 3 Galleys to row in the rear followed Requisenius great Commander of Castile Fernesius followed Columnius with the Admiral Galley of Genua and the Prince of Urbin with the Admiral Galley of Savoy Jordanus was betwixt the middle-Battel and left-wing Justinian betwixt that and the right with the Malta Galleys About half a mile behind followed Bacianus Admiral of the Neopolitane Fleet with 30 Galleys to be at all times ready for relief of this or that part the 6 Galleasses like Castles conducted by most expert Dodus were before the Fleet about a mile 2 before each Wing and 2 before the middle-Battel with equal space answering the whole breadth of the front of the Fleet almost 5 miles serving it instead of Bulwarks All the Galleys kept a convenient space one from another In the Wings as in the main Battel were the Pope's Kings and Venetian-Galleys indifferently intermixed for the more mutual care of reliefs-sake Cordonius with 8 Sicily Galleys and 2 Galliots was to go 10 miles before to descry what he could and returning to joyn his Galleys equally to the wings In this sort they ere long came to Paxo and next day Don John finding upon view the Venetian Galleys to be but weakly manned ordered 4000 Spaniards and 1000 Italians to be put aboord them where most need was There was one Company under Mutius their Captain an unquiet and furious man who aboord the Galley of Galergus first fell to words with the Captain and after much stir to plain fight as well Souldiers as Captains Mutius being Author of all the stir Venerius hearing hereof sent his own Captain to appease the tumult who in the midst of the furious multitude was fouly entreated by Mutius and divers that came with him shrewdly beaten which Venerius of a hot nature taking as done in disgrace of the Venetians having hung up Mutius and his Ensign-bearer at
into Comagena then destitute of sufficient Garrisons and that Selimus then in Judea's 〈◊〉 might easily be inclosed by them both and vanquished or distressed for want and the rather for that there was no Turkish Fleet on that Coast c. Sinan the while Selimus his forerunner having 〈◊〉 divers Companies of theevish Arabians was come to Gaza the 〈◊〉 though in heart the Mamalukes yielded him their City on composition and relieved him giving him great dissembled thanks that by his meanes they were 〈◊〉 from the Mamalukes bondage ever promised to remain faithfull for so great a benefit Sinan commending their good will lodged his Army nigh the Walls within defence of the Gardens there to expect Selimus his coming And the while 〈◊〉 sought to get knowledge of that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Country chiefly of the nature of the great sanos winning by rewards the Inhabitants thereabout to procure the chief Arabians favour by large offers and to spie what the Mamalukes did at Caire c. and give him knowledge The Gazians on tother side advertized Tomombeius of Sinan's coming and that he might be oppressed before Selimus came if a strong power were sent thither and if the Mamalukes would at an appointed time set by night upon them they then sallying out would do them what harm they could with fire and sword Tomombeius presently sent Gazelles with 6000 choise Horsemen and many Arabians who having shewn himself a politique and valiant Chiefetain all held a great opinion of his valour and direction But Sinan was instantly advertised by his Intelligencers that they were coming suddenly to oppress him and would be with him within two dayes being on the 〈◊〉 But Sinan though he knew nothing yet providently suspecting the Gazians treachery silently betwixt 10 and 12 at night 〈◊〉 his Army marched about 15 miles toward Aegypt nigh which was a small Village wherein Travellers lodged for a plentious Spring 〈◊〉 rise h Sinan and Gazelles both purposed to stay there both whose fore runners brought newes that the enemy was at hand Gazelles not a little troubled and unable to fight in plain battel especially his Horses 〈◊〉 sore wearied was inforced on a new resolution yet not 〈◊〉 he chearfully exhorted his Souldiers to make ready and perform that by force which they could not by policy Sinan having somewhat sooner set his men in order as taking order before with long hopeful perswasions encouraged his to play the men not to think of flight for the wayes would be shut up chiefly to be perswaded no one could perish but whom the immortal God had appointed to die that valiant men found life in the midst of their enemies as cowards death in their safest flight Sinan placed his Harquebusiers in the wings in thin Ranks the easier to use their pieces and enclose the enemy Gazelles sent before the Arabian light Troops to trouble the enemies wings charging their middle battel with a square battel The battel was long terrible and doubtful for the Turks being glad to give ground and disordered by the Mamalukes breaking in began to look which way to flee but the Harquebusiers having repulsed the Arabians wheeling about enclosed the enemies battel whereby men and Horse were a far off slain true valour helping them not for the Mamalukes pressing forward the Turks retired labouring only to gaul them with shot Gazelles his Horses being spent the Arabians beginning to fall off and many of his valiantest men slain or wounded himself also wounded in the neck making his way thorow losing divers Ensigns fled back to Caire having lost the Governours of Alexandria and Caire with 1000 more and a great number of Arabians Sinan lost above 2000 of his best Horsemen some being noted Commanders The Turks not able to pursue there encamped near the Fountain and next day gathering the spoil fastned their enemies heads known by their long beards upon date Trees in witness of their labour and to feed the eyes of fierce Selimus shortly to passe that way They of Gaza supposing Sinan on some knowledge of the Mamalukes coming had retired early setting upon many left in the Camp most being sick and weak slew them and presently spoyled 2000 Horsemen of their Carriages putting them to flight who were sent from Selimus to Sinan who fearing he had been lost with his Army in fear retiring were slain by the Arabians neither had one escaped if Juleb sent from Selimus to Sinan with Graecian Horsemen at Rama had not repressed their fury yet they calling for more and more dwelling in the Mountains were a great Army overtaking the Turks at the Village Carasbara forcing them to fight in a place of great disadvantage for having taken straits closing in the passage of a large Valley they were before behind and on both sides at once They skilfully used Bows and Arrows with long Speares armed at both ends upon their swift Horses so that the Turks keeping close hardly defended themselves in number few Juleb opening the way by 4 pieces of Artillery speedily brought his men thorow those straits then marching more safely he skirmished a far off with them discharging his Field-pieces where he saw the thickest of those wild people yet they were still hovering in their rear slaying such as could not follow and not suffering them to refresh or take rest so that many through thirst wounds and labour died but a great number of other Turks met them unlooked for being even at last cast for Selimus having left Imbrahor Bassa upon Persia's borders and sent for supplies from Constantinople by Sea to be transported had removed from Damasco and the better to provide for Victuals and forrage every day sent before great Companies of his Army Juleb next day meeting with Selimus told him all that had hapned and what they conjectured of Sinan Bassa He now exceeding melancholy thought good to go no further before he knew how it stood with Sinan in whose fortune he had put the hope of his good success But suddenly came the Syrian Spies declaring what Sinan had done turning that melancholy into joy seeing by that Victory Aegypt laid open to him c. Next day removing to Rama he burnt by the way the dwellings Wives and Children of those Arabians who had done so much harm to his men and sending his Foot to Sinan at Gaza himself turned on the left hand to Jerusalem to visit that ancient and famous City then unpeopled desolate and defaced not inhabited by Jews but mostly by a few poor Christians who payed a wondrous yearly tribute to the Sultan of Aegypt for the possession of the holy Grave reverently worshiping the Monuments of the Prophets and having done special sacrifice to Mahomet he gave to the Christian Priests keepers thereof as to devout men money to maintain them for six moneths and afrer one nights stay marched in four dayes to Gaza having skirmishes day and night with the Arabians who where the Turks were forced for the wayes straightness
encamping the 3d day near the little River Xerogipsum where he left nothing unsaid or undone for the animating his Souldiers Within 2 daies his scouts brought tydings about midnight that the enemy was even at hand who by Sun-rising were come in sight wherefore first of all compassing themselves with their Waggons c. and bestowing their bound captives booty therein casting dust on their heads and their hands towards Heaven they came on The Christian Army came on also Philes right well conducting them He that led the right wing at first on-set unhorsed two enemies but his horse sore wounded he retiring hastily out of the battel somewhat troubled the Christians and encouraged the Turks Philes with chearful words encouraged them and with eys cast up and tears running down heartily besought God c. The footmen encountring hand to hand slew the Barbarians and were of them slain But Philes having almost encompassed their horse with a valiant company brake in upon the sides of the enemy who circumvented and hardly charged most of them fell a few horsemen were pursued to the entrance of Chersonesus whither came Philes 5 Galleys were sent to keep Hellesponts Straits 2000 horsemen came out of Servia and 8 Gallies moe by the Potestate of Pera wherefore shutting them up by Land and Sea Philes encamping about the Town and Trenches greatly battered the Castle making great slaughter The Turks by night set first upon the Grecians by sallying out and then upon the Servians with vain attempts wherefore utterly despairing about midnight they full of Coin ran to the Sea purposing to yield themselves to the Genowaies But the night being dark and misty many unawares came to the Greek Galleys who lightened them of their mony and slew them The Genowaies slew only those with the most Coin lest it should be sought for by the Greeks the rest some they sent to the Emperour some they kept as their own prisoners Thus by Philes his valour the Turks for that time were chased out of Europe Innovation and change of the Greek's Religion covetousness envy ambition distrust Forreign aid and foul discord were the chief causes of the Greek Empire's decay and ruin But Michael had 2 Sons Andronicus and Manuel of these old Andronicus entirely loved Andronicus his Nephew causing him to be brought up in his Court as not willing to spare him out of his sight But when he was grown a lusty youth he began to contemn all Government his companions leading him forth to walk the streets hawk hunt and haunt Plays and afterwards night-walks which requiring great expence and his Grandfather giving him but a spare allowance He took up mony of the rich Merchants of Pera c. with secret consultations of flight For seeing his Grandfather live long his Father like to succeed his ambitious thoughts suggested to him such purposes seeking after the Imperial liberty that he might have sufficient for himself and to reward others which seeing he could not do he sought one while after Armenia then after Peloponesus sometime dreaming of Lesbos and Lemnos for which he was reproved by the one and the other He used by night to repair to a Gentlewomans house whom another gallant no lesse affected then himself wherefore he appointed Russians to watch her house Manuel about midnight seeking him passed by these watchmen who in the dark supposing him the man they looked for wounded him that he fell down for dead and so was carried half dead to Court which ourrage cast the Emperour into great heaviness but Michael hearing at Thessalonica of Manuel's being dead with the wounds shortly after dyed with grief The unstayed youth purposing to flee became more and more suspicious to his Grandfather who appointed one Surgiannes who was suspected of aspiring imprisoned and by the Emperour enlarged warily to observe the young Princes doings But he not unmindful of former wrong and in hope to aspire himself took the Prince aside discovering his Grandfathers device to set them together by the ears as followeth Thy Grandfather most noble Prince said he hath set me a watch or rather a bloodbound over thy actions and if possible thy most secret thoughts c. whilst thou followest thy shallow conceits for what shall it avail thee to flee away c. But if thou hearken to my counsel I will shew thee a ready way to aspire the Imperial Seat which is by leaving Constantinople and fleeing into the Thracian Provinces and proclaiming immunity for ever from thy Grandfathers long and heavy yoak If thou likest this I will bring the whole matter to effect so that thou promise me to reward my travel according to desert and that no great matter be done without my consent for thou seest how unwillingly I make my self partaker of thy Calamity c. And seeing delay brings danger let 's impart the matter to such as are like to keep counsel and further our designes He moved herewith as with a charm confirmed his desire by an Oath in writing John Catacuzene Theodore Synadenus men of great honour and aged and Alexius Apocaucus a man of great place being present who shewed themselves as Ring-leaders therein Syrgiannes and Catacuzene by corrupting divers great ones procured the Government of places fittest to begin their rebellion in In all which they mustred Souldiers c. entertaining Strangers as for some great War placing their Friends and removing those they suspected from Government colouring all by false rumours of the European Tartars and Asiain Turks coming and commended by the Emperour himself for their care All which Syrgiannes dissembling oft certified the Prince what he had done and was to do But the Emperour seeing his Nephew proceeded in his dissolute life was about to reprove him before the Patriarch and others but being otherwise perswaded for that it was on the point of Shroveride when as the people through excess were fittest to be drawn into a tumult he let him alone But a good part of Lent past he sent for him to chide him before the Patriarch and other Bishops that as ashamed he might either amend or be thought justly punished if he proceeded The Prince with his followers 〈◊〉 secretly armed agreeing if the Emperour used gentle admonition to keep themselves quiet but if in anger or threatning to punish him to break in and kill him placing young Andronicus in his stead He was grievously blamed of him yet with such moderation that all seemed from a fatherly care so that the assembly was quietly dissmissed and an Oath taken That he should not appoint any other his successour and that the Prince should attempt no hurt to his Grand-father's Life or Empire At his coming out he was discouraged and ashamed at the speeches of the fretting and fuming conspiratours saying Thou hast left us in the Devils mouth to be devoured c. and sent for Theodore Metochita requesting to deal with his Grand-father for his followers pardon whereof he disliked telling
where refreshing and new victualling they putting to Sea landed in Asia whom the Country Turks encountring they put them to flight pillaging for four dayes store of rich booty especially Turkie Carpets thence sailing to Halicarnassus a part of Caria they took a wondrous spoil there comming to them the Bishop of Modrussa with twenty Gallies from the Pope joyfully welcomed also two Gallies from the great Rhodian Master With these 85 Gallies they sailed to the Isle Samos over against Ephesus then desolate to consult of further proceeding Loosing thence they landed at Attalia the Metropolis of Pamphilia of great Traffique in whose Suburbs finding store of rich Commodities from Aegypt and Syria taking what pleased them they burnt the rest with the Suburbs and beginning to besiege the City not without great losse to be taken they departed and running along Pamphylia burning and destroying they returned to Rhodes where meeting an Ambassador from Usun-Cassanes for great Ordnance they understood by him that his Master was preparing against the Turk Mahomet the while no lesse requiting the Venetians for Scanderbeg being dead he much prevailed on the Princes of Epirus and Albania c. but the Fleet from Rhodes landed in the Myndians Countrey returning to the Isle Naxos with great spoil whence Ferdinand's Galleys the year farre spent returned home with much spoil but Mocenicus with the Legate returning into Asia took Smyrua with its spoyl setting it on fire much hurting also about Clazomene not farre off So laden with Asia's spoils Mocenicus returned to Modon and the Legate into Italy Mohomet through the insatiable desire of Soveraignty had not long before under pretence of a friendly parley circumvented the King of Mysia cruelly putting him to death and subduing his Kingdom slew all of his bloud Then invading Caramania where Pyramet and 〈◊〉 reigned he drove them both out Pyramet fleeing to Usun-Cassaues Cassanbet seeking to recover his Inheritance was besieging some Towns on the Sea-coast which taken would draw in all the rest of the Kingdom who requesting Mocenicus now on Cilicia's coast he landing some Companies and great Artillery under Victor So battered Sichinum's walls that the Turks yielding it up he delivered it to Cassambet also Corycus which he took then besieging Seleucia upon 〈◊〉 about five miles from the Sea the Governour discouraged at the great Artillery delivered it to Victor who restored it to Cassambet who thus re-brought into his Kingdom much thanked the Admiral promising himself and Brother to be alwayes the Venetians friends Mocenicus departing harried all along the Sea-coast of Lycia sailing also into Cyprus to appease an insurrection against the Queen left to the Venetians protection by her dead Husband which he 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 appointed Admiral being come into Peloponesus he hastning thither to give up his charge returned to Venice About which time Usun Cassanes who of a small Prince was accounted amongst the greatest Monarchs theu living began to warre upon Mahomet He was the Sonne of Tachretin who with other poor Princes were exiled by Bajazet the first his violence and was again restored by Tamerlane Usun Cassanes obtaining a small territory in Armenia by Tachretin's death Wherefore not contented he wrung one province from this Prince another from that and thrusting some quite out of all thus soone getting a great part of Armenia into his hands So that Calo Joannes the Trapezond Emperour whose style exceeded his power fearing Mahomets greatnesse gave him Despina his onely Daughter in Marriage agreeing that Usun Cassanes after Calo's death and of David his Brother should in his Wives right enjoy Pontus Despina freely to exercise her Christian Religion by whom he had a Daughter Martha Mother of Hysmael the Sophi Usun Cassanes now ceasing not daily to encroach at length began to lay hold on part of the Persian Kings Dominion in Armenia Zenza then reigning in Persia in a sort commanded Usun not to come within the bounds of his Dominion threatning otherwise to turn his forces upon him wherewith Usun offended commanded the Ambassadours speedily to depart and tell their Master he would shortly come and debate the matter with him face to face The Persian King moved set forward an Army thought sufficient to subdue a sar greater Prince Usun Cassanes though he had scarce one man to 10 searing nothing set forward by great journeys to meet them and with whom joyning 〈◊〉 after a long and cruel fight overthrew them with a great slaughter Zenza raising a far greater Army the very strength of his Kingdome set 〈◊〉 in person and joyning battell with Usun the Persians were againe put to flight more being slaine than were in the first Army he slaying Zenza with his own hand and taking Cariasuphu's Son Prisoner whom to please the Persians he honoured with the Title of King calling himself the Persian Protector But having under colour of a peaceable Governour gotten the Regall City Tauris with the rest he secretly dispatching the titular King the last of Tamerlaines posterity took on himself the highest place Mahomet the while having scornfully rejected his Ambassadours and presents and flaine David the Trapezond Emperour his aliance turning Pontus into a Turkish Province which Usun Cassanes of right claimed after Usun was surely seated through the remembrance of the former injuries suggested by 〈◊〉 and the Venetian's solicitation he raising a great Army and passing toward Pontus was nigh Euphrates encountred by Mustapha Mahomets eldest Son and Amurath the Romanian Bassa whom Mahomet had sent out of Europe to joyne with Mustapha who were by Usun Cassanes over-thrown Amurath with 30000 Turks being shine Mustapha and the rest saving themselves by flight Mahomet being exceedingly troubled therear leavied a mighty Army of 320000 men Usun Cassanes Army being nothing in number inferiour which two Mahometans meeting neer Armenia's Mountaines at the first encounter a Turkish Bassa was slaine with 40000 Turks wherewith Mahomet was so daunted that he had retired had not some of his most valiant Captaines sharply reproved him c who now withdrew his Army into a straite between two Mountains fortifying the front with his Carriages behind which were his Ordnance on either side of his Archers The Persians encouraged comming on without fear were all ere they were aware on the mouth of the Turks Artillery which breaking their ranks took away a number of them Besides the Persian Horses through the unacquainted report of the Ordnance were not to be ruled wherefore Mahomet fiercely charged them with his Horsemen being by themselves now out of order yet the Persians slew many Turks but they were at last forced to flee wherein a great number were slain and their Tents taken whose flight Usun's eldest Sonne labouring to stay was slain forty thousand Turks not above one thousand Persians fell Mahomet contented with this dear-bought Victory returned homewards and Usun leaving another Sonne with his Army to defend Armenia to Tauris But 〈◊〉 the Christian Princes expected the event of these Warres they
resolved to dare him battel He lay encamped on the River Singa almost 10 miles from the City that his Souldiers using the benefit of the River and removed from the Cities pleasures might yet be relieved with the plenty thereof The Mamalukes were scarce 12000 yet every one according to his place had more servants well furnished Besides their cunning and furniture in their fighting their Horses were strong couragious and swift and so docible that at signs and speeches of the Rider they would reach him with their teeth from the ground a Launce Arrow c. and run upon the enemy with open mouth lashing at him with their heels and had learned not to be afraid of anything Campson made 4 battels Cayerbeius led the first it being in his Province Sybeius Governour of Damasco called for his activity Balvano that is a Tumbler the second After them who were to charge both the Turkish wings at once followed Gazelles with the third Campson all glistering himself led the fourth almost a mile and half behind The last was to defend the Camp Selimus ordered his Asian horse in the right wing his European in the left his Janizaries and Artillery in the main battel before whom between the wings he placed his valiant Pensioners serving that day amongst them not used so to do Cayerbeius gave a hot charge upon the Europeans and by and by as if to compasse in that wing wheeled a great way about behind them where lighting on a great company of drugdes c. with Cammels and Carriages he made there a great stir with little slaughter Sybeius turning his Troops on the left hand entred overthwart the ranks of the other wing where having made great slaughter of the Asian Horse they furiously bare down all before them till they came to their Ensigns in the midst neither could Mustapha the Beglerbeg nor the Imbrahar Bassa or Master of the horse by any means stay the rest from flight So Sybeius now thrusting in betwixt the foot and the Pensioners backs brought great fear on the whole main battel the matter being extreamly dangerous for Selimus was hereby almost cut off from his Foot the Janizaries being also hardly charged by Gazelles setting on the head of their battel But by the seasonable coming in of Sinan Bassa with many fresh troops being but lightly charged by Cayerbeius the traytor the Mamalukes fury was repressed the Turks encouraged and the victory soon wrung out of their hands Selimus then discharging his Artillery amongst them their Horses somewhat troubled could not be so well ruled as before themselves though wondrous couragious being oppressed with the multitude of their enemies yet serring close they brake thorough the midst of them with great slaughter of the Europeans and hurt of the Pensioners speedily fleeing toward the Camp and City Sinan following with the readiest Troops for Selimus who that day seemd greater than himself riding up and down called earnestly upon them to urge the victory Campson on the way coming for relief or to partake of victory heard by those that fled That Cayerbeius was revolted his Army overthrown and his Souldiers flight not to be stayed 't was also reported that the enemies multitude and their Artilleries force were not to be encountred Whereat the proud old man who never rasted of ill hap was ready for grief to sink down and forthwith his own men and the pursuing enemy coming upon him who without regard overthrew whomsoever they met he being corpulent of great years and besides his weighty Armour troubled with a rupture through hear and grief fainted in that presse and falling down was troden to death The 〈◊〉 of Damasco and Tripolis fighting behind to represse the pursuers force were slain Selymus erecting a few Tents in the field keeping most of his men in Arms slept not that night as not yet assured of his victory lest the Mamalukes should set upon his Camp knowing they were put to flight rather by Cayerbeius his treachery and fury of his Ordnance than by valour Gazelles and others hearing of Campson's death baiting their Horses hasted from Aleppo to Damasco Next day Selimus giving his enemies rich Tents to his Souldiers for a prey had Aleppo delivered to him by Cayerbeius and to win the Citizens hearts the more granted them greater priviledges than formerly This noted battel wherein not above 1000 Mamalukes were slain but of their servants c. many more whose foggy fat Horses brought up in cold Stables fainted with the scorching heat so that many betook themselves to their feet and were easily slain was fought Aug. 17. 1516 on which day two years he obtained the victory against Hysmael in the Calderan fields He lost 3000 Horsemen although Sinan by Cayerbeius his Treason escaped with small losse Campson's body being found two dayes after was laid in open place that such as believed him alive might be out of hope of his return from Caire and others revolted might be the more confirmed and afrer three dayes thus laying and beginning to grow noysome it was simply buried in the most ancient Temple of Aleppo Selimus sent Jonuses Bassa to pursue his enemies to Damasco who himself came thither few dayes after his enemies being fled to Cair They of Damasco not thinking it good to hazard their lives with that Cities great Wealth opened to him the Gates other Sea-Cities as Tripolis Berytus Sidon Ptolemais c. yielding themselves in like manner Not long after he held a great Counsel in his Camp under its walls for he brought not his Souldiers in for troubling the Cities State and the great Trade then very securely there kept by Merchants of divers Countries And so severe was his Discipline that 〈◊〉 Orchards and 〈◊〉 it being 〈◊〉 rested without a 〈◊〉 untouched whereby his Camp had 〈◊〉 of all necessaries at reasonable prices And taking men skilled in the Lawes and Customs of the Country with Embassadors of all Cities he decided the Syrians greatest controversies appointing Governours viewing the Tributes and Customs abrogating many old ones due seeming unreasonable or grievous Having refreshed his Army especially his Horses grown lean he most desirous of conquering Aegypt sent Sinan into Judea with 15000 Horse and a selected Regiment of Harquebusiers to try the passage and open a way to Gaza thought to be troublesome for the wild roaming Arabians Gaza 〈◊〉 nigh the Sea towards Aegypt not farre from the Sandy Desarts The Mamalukes the while assembled generally at Caire without contention 〈◊〉 Tomombeius or Tuman-bai a Curcassian their King being Diadare or next in office before He thinking his own Majesty and the Mamalukes remaining hopes to be wholly reposed in Arms with great industry provided Armor Weapons and Horses casting store of Ordnance and mustering great Companies of his slaves entertain ng many Moors and Arabians Hiring also men skilful to go thorow the Palmyren Desarts into Mesopotamia and so to Hysmael requesting him by Letters to invade Asia the lesse or speedily to break
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
with his present power to stay in Italy making shew of returning to help his brother and the while to assure his State in Italy against the French but he answered them sitting in Council If he should then stay in Italy 't would be thought he was for fear of the Turks fled out of Germany c. hoping that Algiers might be won before the seas should grow rough and dangerous which if so falling out he would not much care what the French could do There was a new grudge between him and them about the death of Rinuo the French Embassadour for certain years to Solyman who returning to Constantinople with new instructions from his Master for confirming a further League he was belaid by some old Spanish souldiers upon the River Pádus and slain together with Fregosius or first tortured to get from him the secrets of his Negotiation and then slain Vastius in purgation of his credit offering the combate to any of like quality that durst charge him with the truth thereof but many thought he was worthily served who stirred up the Turks against the Christians discovering to them the Emperours designs but whether well or ill Pope Paul 3d. meeting Charls at Luca could not or would not determine The Emperour there came thrice to talk with him the Pope to him once who not prevailing with him for the appeasing the troubles like to arise betwixt him and the French King perswaded him what he might to employ those Forces in defence of his Brother Ferdinand and Austria if Solyman should pursue his Victory so prevailing little in the greatest publike matters he took his leave returning to Rome Charls the while with some Italian Bands under Columna and Spinula and 6000 Germans came to the Port Lune embarquing his Souldiers in Merchant-ships and 35 Galleys directing their course to the Islands Baleares but were by a sudden tempest brought in sight of Corsica and after 2 dayes tossing to and fro the wind somewhat failing they put into the Haven of Syracusa now Bonifacium Then putting to sea again for those Islands he met with a Tempest from the West more terrible than the first divers Galleys losing their Masts and sayls being glad with extream labour and peril to get into a Harbour of Minorca Thence he passed over to Majorca very glad that Gonzaga Viceroy of Sicily was come with 150 Galleys and ships bringing Victual enough for a long war Mendoza by reason of contrary winds cut over directly with his Spanish Fleet to Algiers so the Emperour by Auria's perswasion hoysed sayl and in two dayes came thither anchoring in order before the City Two Algier-Pyrates not knowing of the Fleet fell into the Bay ere they were aware the bigger Cycada stemmed and sunk the other with wondrous speed got into the Haven Mendoza having passed the Cape of Cassineus saluted the Emperour with all his Ordnance giving knowledge the Spanish Fleet was not far behind which were above 100 tall Ship and of smaller Vessels far more besides the Foot embarqued therein were a great number of brave Horsmen over whom the Duke of Alba commanded These ships could not double the Cape as did Mendoza with his Galleys for it was a dead calm but the billows went yet so high that the Souldiers could not land but they must be washed up to the middle which the Emperour thought not good to put them unto He also staied for the Spanish ships both that with united power he might more strongly assault the City and to commuicate the whole glory of the action with them at whose request forwardnesse and greatest charge he undertook it which did not only disturb an assured Victory but opened a way to all the ensuing calamities The Emperour sent a Messenger to Asan the Eunuch born in Sardinia and brought up from a youth in the Mahometan superstition by Barbarussa whom he left to keep his Kingdom in his absence requiring him forthwith to deliver the City to Charls the mighty Emperour come in person to be revenged on those horrible Pirates which if he would do the Turks should depart whither they would the Moors to abide with goods and Religion as formerly himself to receive great rewards in peace and war so he would accept of that the fairest occasion to return again to the worshipping of the true God and to enjoy the favour of the Emperour and to revenge himself of Barbarussa's unnatural villany on his person who answered he thought him mad that would follow his enemies Counsel grinningly asking him Upon what hope the Emperour trusted to win the City the Messenger pointing to the Fleet told him That which thou seest c. who scornfully laughing replyed And we with like force valour will defend it and make this place famous for your overthrows here twice the 3d. time most famous by the Emperour's discomfiture It s reported there was an old Witch in Algiers who had foretold the shipwrack and miseries of Verra and Moncada prefixing a time when the Christian Emperour besieging the City should receive a great losse by Sea and Land which Assan so fed and augmented that he not only encouraged his own men but terrified the weaker sort of his enemies therewith they being on so dangerous a coast nigh Winter There was in Garrison but 800 Turks the other multitude of natural Moors and those born in Granado scarce made 5000 to whom was joyned many rebellious fugitives who fled thither out of the Baleares But the wild Numidians made up a great number which should molest the Christians in the open fields Assan having allured the brutish people of the Countries thereabouts to ayd him for rewards and hope of spoyl proposing also pain of death to any who should but look out heavily or speak a word savouring of fear The Emperour after a convenient and soon landing of his Souldiers with plenty of Boats and a little resting of them divided his Army which was about 20000 Footmen besides Horsmen and other Volunteers into 3 equal Battels and 3 Field-pieces to a Battel to terrifie the Numidian Horsmen still ready to charge them if upon advantage He encamped nigh the City between 2 deep Ditches that none could well passe but by Bridge and fastby on the left hand was a Hill whence it seemed the City might well be battered Algiers is like a Triangle fast by the sea having a Haven neither great nor safe from the North-wind the Houses farther off standing in seemly order on the rising of a steep Hill as it were by degrees most beautiful to behold The Emperour was in great hope to win the City and the rather because while he assaulted it on the East-side his ships and galleys on the North might with Ordnance beat the enemy all along the wall Nigh the Hills-rising lay the Spaniards in the midst of the Germans with the Emperour in the plain nighest the sea the Italians All that day the Ordnance was landing and the Horses shipping The
77 Galleys Ships and Galliots beside one ship cast away near Methone with 6000 Barrels of Powder 1. 3000 great 〈◊〉 and 400 Spahi This strong Fleet arrived at Malta the 18th of May and put into the Haven Marzasirock but not being there safe they removed to the Port Maior Malta layeth betwixt Africa and Sicily and is twenty miles long and 12 broad looking to Africk Southward and ` Sicily Northward seeming to be called Melita from Mel hony whereof it yieldeth plenty it is in some places stony gravelly and bare of Wood great Thistles serving for fewel fresh water is exceeding scarce their Wells filled with rain in Winter in Summer being dry or the Water braccy the Inhabitants differing little in colour from the Aethiopians their Buildings except the City in midst of the Island being long and low covered with Turf or Reed It s rather to be thought from Act. 27. and 28. that Paul was cast upon the other Melita between Corcyra and Illyria the trouble and ship-wrack being in the Adriatique Sea out of which ' 〈◊〉 not to be gathered they were driven That side of Malta towards Sicilie hath many good Harbours and Havens two whereof Maior and Marzamoxet are divided by a narrow piece of ground on the head of whose high ridge stands St. Elmo Castle of great strength On the left hand of the Haven Maior are promontories on the first standeth the Gallows whence it s named on the point of the second on a rough and high Rock stands the most strong Castle of St. Angelo the Town adjoyning in which resideth the Grand Master and the Souldiers in the Town or Burg on the 3d stands the strong Castle or Burg of St. Michael Valetta had to defend those three Castles and Towns 1300 Mercinaries Spaniards French Florentines and Neopolitans 1000 Seamen of the Knights Fleet and 500 in St. Angelo 5000 Countrey people which fled into the strong places 500 Knights besides Priests and Squires for these 3 sorts are called Brethren of the Order In the City Melita it self was 200 Souldiers and as many Citizens with 300 Country Horsemen commanded by valiant Vagno Every place being furnished with whatever was needful for a long fiege and minds armed with invincible courage against all chances 200 Turks going ashoare met with Riverius 8 Knights more whose Horse being killed and one Knight slain they were all taken The Turks returning with their Fleet to Marzasirock Port landed 2000 Souldiers and 5 field-Pieces so intrenching themselves Piall Bassa went to view Michael Castle but for fear of great shot durst not come nigh it yet they sallying out skirmished with the Turks Curfelinus and but one Spaniard with him taking an Ensign from them and slaying a Sanzack with divers others Piall being returned the General in consultation agreed with the Captains to besiege Elmo Castle and going up the Hill to view it they were encountred by the Garrison Souldiers some few being lost on both sides Things growing hotter and hotter Valetta sent Salvagus a Knight in a Galley by night to certifie Garzias Viceroy of Sicily how things stood that he might the sooner come to their rescue The Turks the while cast up a Mount to batter the Castle and beat the Galleys in the Haven Major for their Fleet to enter but it was forthwith beat down again by thundring shot from the Castle much abating their courage 〈◊〉 came to them with 6 Ships and 900 Souldiers They cast up another Mount on higher ground annoying with 3 great Pieces not onely the Haven but Angelo Castle and with a rowling Trench drew nearer and nearer to Elmo Castle which though at first hindered by the Defendants yet at last they brought to perfection and soon so planted their Ordnance that they batter both Elmo and Michael Castles A Spanish Gentleman then a slave to the Turk advertised Valetta of the Enemies purpose who sent forthwith two Spanish Companies into Elmo Castle a great strength thereunto At length came Dragut long looked-for with 13 Galleys and 1600 Souldiers 10 Galliots following him from Bona with two Companies Salvagus having done his Message at Messana was commanded to return to Malta in a Galliot conducted by 2 Galleys who bringing him near the Island returned but he in the 3d Watch of the night brake into the Town thorow the midst of the Enemie's Fleet losing but one man where delivering the Viceroy's charge to Valetta he was sent that night back again into Sicily to request him with all speed to send him supply who soon arrived at Syracusa sending thence in the two Galleys 400 Souldiers divers being Knights and some skilful Canoniers willing them to shun the West part of the Island and passe by the East end thereof farther about but safer Then he went to Messana declaring to Garzias the danger requesting 1000 foot which with those already sent he thought would hold out till he might with his Fleet relieve them but while these things were slowly providing the Turks June the 3d assaulted Elmo Castle hoping with short Ladders to get over the Rampiers nearest to the Castle-Bulwark but the Defendants having made a large strong Flanker the Castle also helping them filled the ditches with their dead bodies who thrust still on with their multitude till they had gained the Flanker where they so speedily fortified themselves that they could not be hurt their Ordnance on the other side of the Haven Marza driving the Defendants from the place beating down the corner of the Rampire and battering the front of the Bulwark But night coming on five thousand of the nine thousand Turks tarried there the Christians being forced to retire into the Castle The Turks filling up the Ditch under the Bulwark with Sacks of Tow and Earth gave a fresh assault 800 Janizaries and Spachi being slain and many wounded most of whom remained in the Ditch where they perished 45 Christians were lost 5 being Knights of the Order That night Valetta sent 200 Knights and as many Souldiers into the Castle who if they had been more with the 400 there before might perhaps have driven the Turks from the Rampiers and Flankers and kept the place longer But the grand Master marvelled exceedingly that no 〈◊〉 came for 〈◊〉 two Galleys through the Master's fear kept not the appointed course he vainly affirming he saw some Turkish Galliots before the Port Milleria shaping his course to the Island Gaulos which much grieved the Viceroy and others especially Salvagus for he saw what would come to passe Yet in the mean time six hundred Souldiers were taken up at Rome by Pope Pius the 4th His Command under Columna whom his Legate Me dices accompanied and for example to other Princes gave 100 l. of Gold to the Legate of the Order with Gunpowder and other Warlike necessaries With these went many Volunteers and that with a most ardent desire who found John Auria and others at Naples with 36 Ships wherein these Footmen being imbarqued were transported
ships 50000 Foot 4500 Horse with necessaries proportionable yearly to be ready in March or April at farthest to meet at an appointed place in the East to be employed as the state of things required The King of Spain to defray half the charge the Venetians 2 parts of the other half and the Pope a third which if too heavy for him then the Spaniard to bear 3 parts of that left by him undischarged and the Venetians 2. Victuals was also to be taken up at a reasonable price in any of their Dominions where the Forces should stay yet the Spaniard was first to Victual Guletta Malta and his own Navy out of Naples and Sicily Also if the Spaniard should when there was no common War invade Algiers Tripolis or Tunis the Venetians to ayd him with 50 well appointed Galleys he likewise to ayd them when by the Turks invaded But if the Roman Territory should be invaded then both to the utmost of their power to defend it and the Pope's person and in managing the confederate war what most of the 3 Admirals should agree upon to be reputed as agreed by all That Don John of Austria Charls 5. his son should command in chief all the Forces but to display the common Ensign Also all places except Tunis Algiers and Tripolis gained from the Turk to be divided among the Confederates the Pope to decide all controversies of the Generals to whom the Venetians should lend 12 Galleys which the Pope should supply with men and Victuals and deliver as they were at the end of the War That Maximilian the French King the Polonian and Portugal should have a place to enter into the League whom with other Christian Princes it should beseem him to stir up in so good a quarrel None of the Confederates to treat of peace or enter a League without the others consent Every Autumn their Embassadours being at Rome to consult of the next years Wars and determine whether their Forces were to be encreased or diminished This League was in June with great pomp and triumph proclaimed in Rome Venice and Spain The Venetians in the mean time tryed if they could stir up Tamas the Persian King against The Turk whom he exceedingly hated for the difference about their Religion and for manifold injuries sustained One Alexander a Secretary of State escaping lately out of prison at Constantinople being for his several Accomplishments thought fittest for so great a matter who thorowly furnished and instructed came to Moncastron in Turkish Attire a Port-town at the mouth of the River Borysthenes embarquing for Trapezond but was driven by a contrary wind to Sinope whence he travelled to Cutai keeping on the left hand because he would not fall upon the Turks Army marching thorow all those Countries yet he fell on a part thereof but being taken for a Turk he thorow Rocks and Forrests arrived at length at Erzirum a Frontier City of the Turks His journey was vented at Constantinople by a Spie who as a friend haunted the Venetian Embassadours House at Pera Whereupon Currours were speedily to beset the 3 straight passes into Persia with his favour stature c. But he fearing such a thing leaving his Company posted to Tauris whom the Courrours followed as far as they durst At Tauris Alexander hearing the Court lay at Casbin about 12 miles Journey he came thither Aug. 14. 1571. meeting with English Merchants of his acquaintance by whom he got to speak with Aider the Kings third son learning of them also the fashions of the Court and how to bear himself therein The Persians through the intolerable heat doing most business then by night Alexander about midnight declared to Aider the cause of his comming and next day to his Father delivered his Letters of credence declaring to him in the Senate's name how perfidiously Selimus was about to take away Cyprus from them with what greediness and pride he had set upon the Christians and that discharged of that war he would in all likelyhood set upon the Persians through an ardent and insatiable desire of Soveraignty Then setting forth the prowess of the Christians and their wondrous preparation both at sea and Land he perswaded the King with all his power to invade the Turk now wholly busied in the Wars of Cyprus using divers motives and arguments The King willingly heard him saying He would consider what to do A fair House and a bountiful Allowance being appointed for him and his followers who also requested the Nobles who feasted him oft to be Mediatours to the King therein who had a son called Ismael whom he kept in durance for making in-roads into the Turks Frontiers to the disturbance of his League with Solyman he fretting and languishing for very grief of revenge upon the Turks wished to Alexander that either his Father had his mind or he the powre of a King and that if ever he obtained the Kingdom he would shew what he then thought While the matter went slowlier on than the Embassador would have had it news was brought to Court of a great Victory obtained by the Christians of the Turks at 〈◊〉 Whereat Alexander solicited the King more earnestly than before but he then troubled with the rebellion in Media or weary of former Wars with the Turks answered him Since the Christians had made a perpetual League among themselves he would for 2 years 〈◊〉 the event and then as occasion served resolve on peace or war Which improvidentact brought afterwards a too late Repentance unto the whole Persian Kingdom all the calamities which the Senate foretold redounding in few years to the shaking thereof Mustapha furnished with all necessaries for his siege and Souldiers daily repairing to him besides great supplies brought by Haly from Constantinople being thought to have 200000 men in his Army In April drew nearer to Famagusta casting up Trenches and Mounts so high against it that the Defendants could scarce see the points of the Turks spears or top of their Tents for the Bassa had 40000 Pioniers ready at his command Famagusta standeth at the East end of the Isle low betwixt 2 Promontories it 's 2 miles about almost four-square Almost 2 parts whereof is beaten on with the sea the Land-parts being defended with a ditch but 15 foot broad a stone-wall and Bulwark and Parapets Towers also stand out scarce containing 6 Ordance a-piece It 's Haven South-Eastward is defended by 2 great Rocks betwixt which the Sea cometh in but about 40 paces over but then opening wider giveth a fit Harbour for ships though in no great number and was now strongly chained Near the Haven is an old Castle with 4 Towers There was one Bulwark so built after the manner of the Fortification of our time that it seemed almost impregnable yet there wanting many things the City was thought too weak long to hold out against so great a power but they had therein 2500 Italians 200 Albano's Horsmen and 2500 Cypriots all resolutely bent
Christians entring the galley and slaying or driving over-board almost all lest made an end of Chiroche half-dead with fresh wounds Divers and doubtful was the whole face of the battel in one place the Vanquished lifted up and in another the Victorious overthrown All was full of terrour errour sorrow and confusion yet the 〈◊〉 at length began to appear much superiour in strength and courage the Turks seeming rather to defend themselves than assail their enemies Bacianus in the rear ever as need required sent in ayd The Turks seeing the Christian General 's galley hardly charged on the prow by Haly almost bared of men in the poupe fetched a compass to board her abath whereupon Bacianus comming speedily in with some galleys stayed their course and having discharged many vollies of shot and a multitude of Arrows and Darts grapling together they came to the sword where Bacianus much encouraged his men by words presence and valour and received 2 shot in his Targuet many were slain on both sides the Spaniards though with great loss repulsed in attempting to enter the Turks galleys yet overcame valour by pertinacy and overthrowing and slaying their enemies enjoyed their galleys After 3 hours dreadful fight between Haly and Don John the Christians began to faint and were in danger to have been overcome but the Don upon a sign given to the 400 of his best and select Souldiers reserved under the Hatches against all events they started out and with a terrible cry desperately assailed the enemy almost spent with labour and Wounds who astonied confounded and with great slaughter vanquished the Turks possessing the galley Haly shot into the Head and all bloody was brought to Don John who seeing him ready to die had his Head struck off which on the point of a spear himself held up aloft as a Trophey of Victory and to terrifie the other Turks who fast by fought yet right valiantly which they beholding and a flag of the Crosse being in the top of their General 's Galley the Christians also crying Victory thorow the Army they with might and main made towards the Land not much above a mile off whom Canalis and Quirinus hardly pursuing sunk and took divers of their Galleys Partau's Son by staying the rest had time to run his Galley on ground and forsake her with his men as did others also the Galleys becoming a prey to the Christians Caracoza in this hot conflict a famous renegate Pyrate who had long done exceeding mischief was slain by Buzzacharinus of Padua Requisenius also took the Galley of Haly's two Sons with themselves one being 23 the other 13 years old and the Nephews of Selimus who though strongly guarded with Janizaries fled as exceedingly afraid upon this discomfiture of the main Battel The chained Christian slaves breaking off their geives and loosing each other with any Weapons that came to hand notably furthered the Victory yet was the Battel doubtful betwixt Auria and Uluzales in the right Wing the Turks having almost two Galleys for one Auria whatever the cause was upon signal of Battel given shrunk farther from the rest of the Battel but it seemes his purpose was to countervail by policie what he wanted in strength it seemed most strange to the Turks yet he fell off farther hovering aloof and seeming to wait some advantagious opportunity a galeasse of Pisa the while laying before him with 〈◊〉 much troubled the Enemy Uluzales also so extended his Wing as if he would have compassed in Auria yet offered not Battel but rather expected some advantage might be given him who had not lain so long but 12 Venetian Galleys withdrawing from Auria and roaming without order fell into his danger which he speedily enclosing boarded them 〈◊〉 the Defendants and took the Galleys many of the Knights of St. Stephen being here most valiantly fighting slain Superantius most of his men being slain and himself mortally wounded and his Galley almost taken blew up themselves with a great number of the Enemies 〈◊〉 The Victors in the middle Battel hearing the noyse turned thitherward to ayd Auria but one after another as they had cleared themselves of the Enemy Justinian Admiral of the Malta Galleys being foremost most terribly encountred with three Turks Galleys Uluzales sending in three others to help their fellows so Justinian hardly beset with six Galleys having lost 50 Knights and an Ensign with much adoe hardly defended himself but the Galley given for lost two other Malta Galleys who were upon point by fight to take three other Turks Galleys with all speed came to relieve their Admirall who was yet alive but shot with three Arrows whereby the Turks were repulsed and the Galley rescued Uluzales hearing of the overthrow of their main Batrel and right Wing leaving the Galleys he had taken was the first in that Wing that fled Cardonius suddenly appearing at his back labouring to stay the flight of the hindermost Galleys till other victorious Galleys were come in but 15 of the Turks Captains enraged with such unwonted disgrace unexpectedly turned about renewing the Battel and in a trice almost all Cardonius's men were 〈◊〉 the Galley was not taken for that the three Admiralls being near at hand and Auria coming fast on Uluzales giving over the fight fled apace yet carrying away a Galley of Cyprus and a Knights Ensign as a witness of his valour to Selimus The Christians pursued them so long as there was hope to overtake any though weary of almost five houres fight but it was more than time to see to their weary and wounded men and night coming fast on the old Pyrate under its Covert escaped into the Bay of Lepanto with 30 or 40 Galleys The number of Turks lost could hardly be known many being drowned and some slain swimming though some mercy most prevailing took the Turks prisoners Guarnerius reporteth 32000 to have perished others not past half-so many to have been slain the chief being Haly the General Chiroche Cassanes with his Son Malamur Gider Cassambeius Governours of Islands Provi Aga Mustapha the Treasurer Caracozae with many others chief prisoners were Halies Sons sent as Presents to the Pope the eldest dying by the way at Naples the younger he kept prisoner and Mecbmet Bey Governour of Eubaea and about 3500 taken also The chief escaping were Partau Bassa and Uluzales afterwards certainly known to flee but with 25 Galleys and 10 Galliots 16 Galleys were taken 40 sunk or burnt of Galliots and other small Vessels were taken about 60. The Admirall Galley taken scarce any in the whole Ocean for beauty and richness was comparable unto her Haly's Casket with 600 Duckats therein and a yearly Pension of 300 Duckats being given to the Greek that slew him and was also Knighted by Don John he had also the burrel of the Turks Standard which at his return to Venice he sold to a Goldsmith the Senate redeeming it for a Duckat an ounce It was massive silver guilt and engraven with
returning declared that the Turks Fleet being 160 Galleys 60 Galliots 4 great Ships lay in the entrance of the Bay called Sinus Argolicus about 50 miles of them which being soon discovered to make for Malea the Christians made with what speed they could toward them the Enemy being more in number but inferiour in strength his Fleet being rather nimble than strong but the Christians more firm and forward who fearing to be circumvented by the others multitude set their Ships and Galleasses before them and the Turk by how much he had the worst before was so much the carefuller of the reach of the Galleasses the Christians very much desirous of fight and to come to handy-blowes but the Turks sometime made away a pace then stayed if perhaps they might take the Galleys seperated from the Galleasses going more slowly and seeing the 〈◊〉 Fleet still coming on for 〈◊〉 they seemed to do the like but turning on the right hand kept aloof along the Coast of Malea and were quickly gone too far for the Christians to follow them especially with their heavy Ships towards Sun-setting the Turks put into a 〈◊〉 betwixt Cerigo and Harts-Island about 10 miles broad and filling it overthwart 〈◊〉 prows being turned as 〈◊〉 they had purposed nothing more than to fight but they pretended that fearing by open flight to dishonour Selimus the Christians with much labour and rowing came so near them that the great shot began to fly on both sides but when they came to dint of Sword the Turks keeping their prows upon the Christians Galleys by 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 back and night approaching discharged all their Ordnance onely with Powder retiring in the 〈◊〉 unseen shewing by lights left in their Cock-boats as if the whole Fleet had still stayed neither could the Christians through the heaviness of their Galleasses but softly pursue them who returned to Cerigo The Turks 2 dayes after staying in the Bay of Taenarus now Metapon the Christians very desirous of battel the 3d day after went from Cerigo being by break of day descryed from Land by the Turks Uluzales by Warning-pieces commanding his men to go aboard and make ready who coming out of the Haven in 3 Battels no faster than the Tide drave them and oftentimes staying to draw the Christians Galleys from the Ships Uluzales fearing much the Galleasses commanded both Wings 80 Galleys apiece to fetch a great compasse on the right and left hand so to assail the Christians Wings on the sides or behind which they perceiving turned about their Galleys in the Wings their main Battel facing the Turks middle Battel Euscarinus now requested and perswaded Columnius and Lilly that not staying for the heavy ships they would with him assail the Enemies middle Battel destitute of the Wings not doubting to overthrow their greatest strength there before the Wings gon so far could joyn to the Battel again urging it with other motives his counsel was well liked with a great and general chearfulness of the Souldiers but Columnius and Lilly said flatly that without those Vessels so much feared of their Enemies they would not hazard the fortune of a Battel The Christian's Wings in turning about were a little disordered whereupon the Turks with 15 Galleys were about to charge the stragling Galleys hereupon Superantius went and fought couragiously with them with four Galleys but seeing 40 more of the Enemies making towards them he sent for 20 Galleys and two Galleasses which came presently in 18 Galleys being soon all reut and torn the dismayed Turks returning in great haste Superantius with but one Galley shot thorow returning also The Christian Fleet in following the Turkish came so nigh that they oft changed Bullets small and great Uluzales the better to frustrate the Christians endeavours who with great labour drew with them their heavy Ships sent his great Ships to Malvasia to be unrigged whereby he was able at his own pleasure to leave or take fight supplying also his whole Fleet with the Soul diers necessaries therein so that if the Christians would needs fight they must forsake their Galleasses The day declining the Enemy in seemly order as not afraid sailed to Corona the Christians retiring to Cerigo Don John the while gave the Fleet knowledge that he was come to Corcyra sharply blaming the Commanders that they stayed not for his coming and commanding them forthwith to meet him at Zante there to resolve of all matters Columnius was in such haste that he would Fuscarinus leaving all other Vessels at Cerigo should return to Don John with 100 of the best Galleys Lilly was also of that opinion But Fuscarinus more careful than the rest whom the danger of so doing more concerned would not yield to that perswasion for divers reasons but they resolved hap what would told him flatly if he would not yield unto them they would forthwith leave him and with their Galleys return to Zante as the General had commanded Newes being now brought that the Turks were in the fret of Cerigo they all resolved to passe by the Enemy in order as for Battel before having determined to leave their Ships and Galleasses at Creet and then to return to Don John The Enemy in their passing by 〈◊〉 as it were stood on their Guard than resolved for Battel Being come to Zante in 3 dayes the Don was not there but gave a command leaving there their heavy Ships to come to Cephalenia where they should not fail to meet him whereupon the grieved Venetians generally muttered that the Spaniards bearing upon their wealth were too proud in respect of themselves regarding neither the conditions of the League nor any other mans credit but trod all men underfoot c. yet they went to Cephalenia whither Don John was not yet come but that if they would joyn with his forces they should come further back to Corcyra which Message much troubled the Venetians fretting complaining as of divers things so that they had long agoe by many secret signs conjectured the Spaniards had more care to hinder and crosse other mens doings than to do any thing of themselves and that the Turks of late discouraged with the fortunate proceedings of the Christians might again rejoyce at their mishaps yet being loath to fall off from the Spaniard they kept on with the rest to Corcyra the Don laying at Spilca with 53 Galleys and 18 Ships in the utmost end of the Island who at first seemed not a little offended that they had not with more duty attended his coming and they as much complaining of his long stay and many other grievances The Fleet now consisting of 200 Galleys nine Galleasses and 36 tall Ships they all agreed to set forward against the Enemy two espialls bringing newes that the Turk's Fleet weak of men was at Navarinum they well hoped upon the sudden they might easily oppress them wherefore not to be descried sailing by night they kept aloof upon the right hand coming with great silence to the
accordingly who entring into the place of Counsel desired of Mahomet to know his pleasure who caused the counterfit Command to be read Mustapha giving an attentive eare but when the rest began to sit down 〈◊〉 to the Turks manner who use alwayes to stand up till any Command from the Emperour be fully read the Georgian took his leave promising to be ever ready to perform whatsoever the King should command and so being about to depart the great Usher plucking him by the sleeve would have forced him to have sit down indeed that the Lievtenant with those of Mahamets chief band that stood about him might cut off his head Mustapha crying out with his Sword having wrought the Role from his pate with his left hand at one blow cleft the 〈◊〉 head down to his very stomach to the great astonishment of all there present then 〈◊〉 at the head of he 〈◊〉 of Charemit it being defended with the roles of the Turbant the stroke slipt down by his care which it carried quite away with a peece of the 〈◊〉 and a peece of the flesh of his cheek eagerly assailing Mahomet himself whom risen up in the 〈◊〉 he wounded with five mortall wounds which yet were afterwards cunningly healed when they had brought him even to deaths door upon the rushing in of the Georgians and the fear that Mustapha had struck into the Turks every man speedily departed towards Chars whither also was brought the two wounded Bassaes and the rest that were ill handled and greatly scared Of all this treachery Mustapha sent present word to Amurath as much grieved at the false suspicion conceived 〈◊〉 him and so wrought that 〈◊〉 sent him both Cloth of Gold and a Battle-Axe all guilt Mahamet on the other side wrote at large of all his misfortunes and aggravated to the King both the treachery of Mustapha and the slender security of those wayes and Countries When Amurath understood of these calamities and losses and the apparent danger of the Fort of Teflis then like to be abandoned he in a rage rated exceedingly the Bassaes of his Court reproving their lewd Counsel and recounting his losses from time to time as if through their defaults especially of Sinan who like an improvident fool he said would needs leave his Army and like a King sit idle at Constantinople c. who when Mustapha was General most vainly boasted with the like power to fetch the Persian King out of Casbin in bonds to Amurath but had indeed performed nothing worth remembrance Sinan peremptorily answered that seeing he would needs make choyce of Mahamet Bassa an unfit man to convey this year's Succours to Teflis he was to blame none but himself As for his coming to Constantinople it was long before thought most needful both that the matter of peace might come to some good passe and if not then he had to talk with him how to compass his Enemies overthrow which yet he had no fit time to declare but was now ready to reveal if it were his pleasure Amurath was wonderfully grieved with so arrogant a reproof from a slave of his own yet he disembled his discontentment against him commanding him to disclose those his devices who propounded 〈◊〉 not to proceed in this Warre as they had done with 〈◊〉 to hold the Enemies Countries their Treasures 〈◊〉 not able to maintain so many and great Garrisons 〈◊〉 for Amurath to go in person himself and so aganst so mighty a King by opposing the person of a King the Persians would easily come to an agreement or if ot he might then proceed in his Warres and obtain 〈◊〉 glorious Conquest the effeminate King now concived an envious affection against him and a further 〈◊〉 fostered by great Ladies especially his Mother 〈◊〉 Sinan had counselled him to go in person onely 〈◊〉 meanes for the Prince his Sonne to make him 〈◊〉 Sinan and the Prince carrying great 〈◊〉 towards each other wherefore depriving him ofall charge he presently banished him to Demotica of 〈◊〉 whence he by most humble supplication obtained terward to be removed to Marmara Siaus Bassa who married Amurath's 〈◊〉 being preferred to the Visiership a personable and 〈◊〉 Hungarian but the greatest seller of Justice 〈◊〉 preferments yet a great friend to peace with the Chrians which Sinan had alwayes maligned The Persian Captains the while 〈◊〉 spoils and Enemies Ensigns were with great joy reived in Persia which was redoubled when the 〈◊〉 betwixt Mahomet and Mustapha was reported wereby every one thought the next years dangerous attents of the Turks into Persia which were feared migl be hindered whereupon the Persian King determid to march toward Heri against Abas Meriz hisonne then with him in disgrace being earnestly solicid thereto by his elder Sonne especially by Salmas his Visier so committing his defence of that side of his Kingdom to Emer Chan Governour of Tauris Himself with his Army arrived at length at Salvar which principal City he taking by force beheaded the Governour thereof though he alledged a thousand excuses and objected as many accusations against seditious Salmas and having put to death some great ones accused by the Visier as confederates in his Sonnes rebellion he arrived at last at the City of Heri very strong by situation a good Wall and deep Channels of water conveighed into it by Tamerlain there was also therein many valiant Captains Enemies to Miriz Salmas The King approaching the City left in himself many troubled passions grieving to think he should beget so graceless a Sonne and to remember the blood of his Subjects spilt upon so strange an occasion yet being more and more solicited by Salmas he attempted to understand the mind of his Sonne and if possible to get him into his hands but Abas in the mean time wrote divers Letters to his Father and Brother beseeching them to make known unto him the occasion of this their stir for if desire of rule had moved them to seek his deprivation he was alwayes ready to spend and be spent in their service acknowledging his Father to be his good Father and King but if they were induced hereto for revenging some trespasses committed by him against the Crown of Persia he was most ready to submit to any amends and yield up all the more fully to satisfie their minds with twice and thrice reading over were these affectionate Letters considered and at last both Father and Brother determined to attempt the reducing the young mans mind to some good passe whereupon they wrote back 〈◊〉 him that his causing himself to be called King of Persia and the not sending them so much as one Captain to ayd them against the Turks had onely induced them hereunto Abas glad when he understood his accusations wrote back unto them if they would faithfully promise safely to receive his Embassadors he would send them so clear information touching those accusations that they should clearly perceive he had alwayes desired and laboured the contrary and would
cryed aloud that when they lacked meat rather than yield they would eat Christians of whom Marotti should be the first The Government of the Army was now committed to the Lord Redern both valiant and learned who though very sickly came to the Camp Aug. 8th where hearing that the Rebels brought to great extremity purposed by night to flee kept a more vigilant and strong Watch next night about two houres before day they began to issue out and were suffered to go out as unperceived but Nadasti the Earl of Thurne and Count Solmes were presently sent after them who in three places overtaking them near the great Wood Packem slew most of them Dela Mota being slain by Solmes because he would not yield and his Head presented to the Generall The Hussars found out 200 Walloons in the Wood who though they made strong resistance a while yet at last were forced to yield The Hussars also upon another passage light upon 200 more of them who because they were more desperate than the rest the General sent 〈◊〉 Horse more upon them so that they were allmost all slain divers also were slain in coming forth and in Marshes about the Town Motta's Lievtenant and other chief Commanders were by Lo Redern delivered to the Provost Martiall dividing the rest at the Souldiers Request into divers parts of the Army to be executed from whom they could there scarce hold their hands But being brought to Rab and leave given to do what they would with them they impaled some brake some upon the Wheel cutting off some of their skins as it were into thongs so powring into the wounds Vinegar Salt and Pepper of some they cut off their privities some they roasted putting some upon the Tenalia on some they dropped molten pitch then burnt them to death with Gunpowder hanging others on Iron-hooks some they set in the ground up to the Chin bowling at their Heads with Iron Bullets the 〈◊〉 nothing but deriding them in all these torments the wretches the while confessing the hainousness of their offence and craving for death as a favour Whilest some were tortured others were brought to see the same misery to be by them endured One Peter Orsy caused one of these mutiniers to be sowed up in a Mare 's Belly with his Head hanging out and so to be roasted in which torment he lived 3 houres then was the loathsom body so roasted given to others starving upon the Wheel to eat At this time also many a hot and bloudy skirmish passed betwixt the Christians and Turks in one place or other of Hungary Amongst the rest one Horbath 〈◊〉 Lievtenant with 150 men and Thussi going to seek for booty Thussi hearing the Turks were abroad to surprize certain Haiducks stayed fast in a secret place Horbath going on another way now the Bassa of Sigeth by chance met with Horbath overthrowing him and slaying most of his men Horbath hardly escaping But Thussi hearing this skirmish and hasting thither found the Bassa in the Field on foot viewing the slain upon whom he came so suddenly and forcibly that the Bassa had much adoe disorderly to take Horse and without much resistance to 〈◊〉 whom the Hungarians fiercely pursuing slew many Turks and the Bassa himself whose Head Horbath sent to Serinus who by Thussi himself sent it to Matthias This Bassa about 36 years old was for his strength valour and experience of a common Souldier made a Bassa whose Head being shewn to the Bassa of Buda a prisoner at Vienna he demanded whether he knew it or not sighing answered he knew it well to be the Bassa of Sigeth his Head a braver man than whom the Sultan had not in all his Empire earnestly desiring to know how he was slain and ere long a great party out of Strigonium and other places having taken a great booty from the Turks at a Fair at Gombar and thinking to passe Danubius in hope of a greater 700 of them being passed over were by the new Bassa of Sigeth with 5000 Turks overthrown yet was the Bassa himself with two 〈◊〉 and 500 Turks slain and but 50 Christians left dead upon the place the rest disorderly retiring to their Boats being most drowned The free Haiducks also surprizing and firing Jula the Turks fleeing into the Castle for haste thrust so many from the Bridge into the Castle-ditch that one might have gone dry-foot over upon the bodies of the drowned They took there also 600 prisoners with much booty delivering 200 Christian Captives and though they were hardly pursued by other Turks yet they safely retired with their booty But Cardinal Bator being overthrown and slain and Transilvania reduced to the Emperour's obedience the Vayuod of Valachia forthwith certified him of all his proceedings and success also of his purpose to invade 〈◊〉 for it was commonly reported and believed that Sigismund ayded by Turks Tartars 〈◊〉 and Moldavians would now attempt some greater matter for recovery of Transilvania for divers of his Spics also being taken besides his Letters found about them to the Nobility and States perswading them to revolt from the Vayuod unto him who meant shortly to come with a great Army to repulse him confessed that Sigismund had been in Transilvania disguised to confer with divers friends about it The Emperour honourably receiving the Vayuods Embassadors confirmed unto him the Government of Transilvania sending him also divers Presents yet forbidding him to invade Moldavia for fear of raising a new and dangerous War against the Polonians also wherefore the Vayuods stayed his intended expedition yet he sent some good forces to the Frontiers of Moldavia for fear of Sigismund whom he heard even then to lay upon the same After a few moneths Husraim Aga with five other eminent Turks came to Cronsta where the Vayuod then lay as Embassadors from Mahomet with a great Retinue whom he with 4000 brave Horsemen went half a mile to meet the Foot standing on both sides of the street from the Gate of the City whereby they were to enter even to the Vayuods Lodging where stood his Guard in red and white silk So meeting they both alighted saluting each other the Embassador presently embracing the Vayuod ungirt his Scimitar and in the Sultans name put another about him most richly garnished with Gold and precious Stones He also presented him with a fair Plume of black Hearnes feathers mixt with some white which he would not put upon his Head in the Field though he most earnestly requested him causing it to be carried before him also with two very fair red 〈◊〉 likewise he gave him two exceeding faire Horses richly furnished with four others and a most fair Faulcon The Vayuod had 10 very fair spare-Horses led before him at whose entrance all the great Ordnance was discharged with great vollies of small shot so the Embassador riding on his left hand being brought to his Lodging six of his chief followers were presented with six rich Robes of Cloth
of their fidelity to the Emperour Now might many and important considerations trouble the minde of Basta in so doubtful a case whom to give ayd unto but he laid hand upon the helm of good meaning and spread the Sails of such discretion as taught him that in matters of Warre a General might depart from the instructions of his Prince not concerning the end but the meanes leading thereunto especially when the present occasion suffered not so much delay as to expect counsel from far so he resolved to joyn to the confederates most in his judgement concerning his Imperiall Majesty as being the utmost scope of his so great cost and charge to keep Transilvania at his devotion wherefore arriving at Torda Septemb. 14th he joyned unto them to the great wonder of the Vayuod who being in all about 18000 strong and twelve Field pieces he determined not to give leisure to the Vayuod to call to him for more help having with him about 20000 Foot 12000 Horse and 27 Field-pieces amongst whom were divers Siculi in hope of their ancient liberty with a mixture of Cossacks Valachians Rascians and Servians people of prey whom Basta knew to be far inferiour in courage to his 18000 wherefore he set forward the sixteenth day and in two dayes march came in sight of the Vayuod who seeing some great Troops he sent to view the Enemy to be repulsed firing Mirislo a Village fast by out of which they had drawn certain small Pieces into the Camp Mirislo is two Leagues on this side Alba Julia upon the high way stretching from the side of the River Maracz to the foot of a Hill along which the River runing unequally and by the rising of the Hill maketh the ground in some places half a mile broad and more and in some shut up narrow as there where the Village standeth and where the Vayuod advantagiously lay behinde a great trench drawn from the River to the Mountain On this side where from 〈◊〉 the plain enlargeth more and more Basta encamping close to the Village opposed against the Enemie's coming three great Corps du guard two towards the Hill and one towards the River under the charge of the Major of the Field with the Artillery who there entrenched himself both sides still drawing nearer and nearer Towards the Evening September the 17th came one with Letters from the Vayuod to Basta containing He desired to know whether his arrivall in the Conspirator's Camp were by the Emperor's consent or Command or not and how it hapned he would do so considering the divers chances of War c. Who answered To morrow he would shew him his Authority alluding to the Imperiall Standard and as for the fortune and danger he referred that to the will of the Almighty the just Judge of all controversies but the mean while he exhorted him to leave that Province he had so ill governed unto the Emperour promising him free passage into Valachia and giving him time till the next morning to consider thereof after which every one might do for himself what he could The Vayuod disdaining this answer with many threatning and disgraceful words presently caused the Battel to be proclaimed against next day by sound of Drum and Trumpet Basta assuring his Camp and not onely sending but going himself to see how the Enemy lay and finding no reasonable meanes for him there to attempt any exploit by thought it best to make a retreat of about an Italian mile according to the commodiousness of the place which his purpose was much disliked by the confederate Captains to whom it seemed more safe to assault the Enemy in his Trenches than to retire before the face of an Enemy so strong and adventurous c. but Basta promised therein to shew them a more cunning kind of fight than they yet knew and the assurance which himself and the Almaines in the Rear would give in the retreat so that they should not lose one man much lesse to fall into any disorder his purpose being onely to give the Enemy the plain to shew himself openly in so the morning following the three Corps Duguard were called back and the baggage sent away whom the Transilvanians and Hungarians followed the Almaines enclosing the Ordnance in the Reare The Vayuod hereupon sent a great Troop to view them and skirmish with them which were so kept off by Musquetiers in the Reare that they could not come to do any harm though they were all the way charged by them to the great content of Basta who when he saw the Ordnance on Carriages to come out of the Village he marched softly to give the Enemy hope to overtake him having before thought of a convenient place for his men with room enough upon advantage to stay and when he might about half a mile off see the Enemy march in order of Battel he began to march towards him and having placed his men in a fit station and order according to the scituation of the place and order of the Enemy and the manner of his proceeding set down he put on his Helmet and chearfully said he trusted then to shew the Vayuod that his Trunchion could do more than his Scimitar So himself setting forward betwixt the Squadron of the Almaine Foot and the Wing of Musquetiers in the afternoon he marched fair and softly toward the Enemy who without moving expected the discharge of their Artillery whereunto the nearer the Enemy came the lesse harm it did him The Wing of Musquetiers went directly to charge the Artillery and the Squadron towards the Foot of the Hill where Basta desired forcibly to charge presently came in a Front just upon the sign given and so with his Almaine Foot and the Rutters on the right hand enclosed in behind most part of the Enemies Foot at which instant the Rutters on the left hand also so couragiously charged upon the three thousand Launces that better could not have been desired The Launces retiring without hurt and the first Volley discharged forced the Infantry and so disordered the rest whereupon the Wings charging there presently ensued a great slaughter and overthrow the Enemy losing one hundred thousand and Basta but forty and as many hurt and greater had the slaughter been if the Village and nights approach had not covered many of them that fled and stayed the pursuit of the Victors yet was there afterwards found in all as was by the Peasants reported twenty thousand slain in this Battel Basta recovered many Ensigns and much Armour before sent by the Emperour to the Vayuod with all his Tents and Baggage sending out presently many Troops of Horse every way with Proclamation to spare the lives of such Siculi as should lay down Arms many of whom were sent prisoners to divers places especially to Fogaras the Vayuod himself with some Cossacks escaping by flight On the morrow Basta sent away Count Caurioli to inform the Emperour of all particulars who seemed to be pleased yet
Grandmother from all Command in the State setting the Persian Embassador close shut up by his Father at liberty sending with him the Bassa of Aleppo to entreat of peace with the Shaugh of Persia who was reported to recover Tauris and then preparing for new Conquests for which motion of peace some condemned his patience as not beseeming the Othoman Emperours c. others praysing his 〈◊〉 dom therein in seeking by fair meanes in the beginning of his Reign to disarm his Enemies in his setled Estate to oppress them The Bassa of Buda also wrote to the Governour of Strigonium to repair to some fit place for concluding of peace whereupon he 〈◊〉 other Commissioners Febr. the 4th came to Collonitz his Camp whence being bravely conducted to the Ships ready to carry them to Pesth in their passage both the Turks of Buda and Christians of Pesth strove to excel in the thundring of the great Artillery The Commissioners were met at Pesth with many of the better sort of Turks sent from the Bassa of Buda in his name to greet them who with many honours again received them and next day sent a number of Christians to Buda to invite some of the chief Turks to a Banquet at Pesth 600 of whom willingly coming the Feast was most magnificently prepared ten Pavilions being set up for their entertainment a little off from Pesth in the first were three stately Tables 〈◊〉 the first whereof on the right hand sate the Commissioners the two Bassaes one Mufti or arch-Priest with his 〈◊〉 a long furred Gown under which was a Robe of exceeding rich silk on the left hand were Turkish Lords and other great ones at all other Tables were set a Christian and a Turk till they were all placed the Turks after their superstitious manner would not sit down before Sun-setting and then with abundance of Ceremonies in imitation of their Mufti sate down merrily reposing till nine at night and then returned to Buda Instruments of Musick Trumpets and Drums on every side sounding about them And yet was all this fair shew nothing but deep dissimulation and treachery for a little before their departure they of Pesth were advertised that the Turks of Buda were come out to surprize Pesth hoping that during this Feast the Christians had 〈◊〉 the Walls unfurnished but they as well providing for defence of the Town as for the Feast abroad the Turks were glad to return disappointed of their purpose Next day the Commissioners complained to the Bassa and other Turks Commissioners of this so treacherous dealing who excused themselves as ignorant thereof disavowing the action for want of success which otherwise they would have maintained to the utmost an ordinary course among the great Nevertheless the Turks next day requested the Christian Commissioners to come likewise to Buda but they excusing themselves returned to Strigonium as loath to adventure themselves into their power yet they left Geisberg to continue the negotiation with the Bassa if he should finde him thereunto disposed c. Count ISOLAN being set at liberty by MAHOMET upon the condition aforesaid declared to the EMPEROUR that the SULTAN offered to deliver Buda Alba Regalis and Canisia in exchange of TRANSILVANIA and VALACHIA whereto he laid claim promising to give such reasonable assurance of a most firm peace as the EMPEROUR should demand The Bassa of Buda also among other fair Remonstrances had offered the Commissioners of Canisia and Agria for Pesth Hatwan and Vacia with remission of all Tributes and payments due for Hungary all which though much unreasonable were but windy words to delay time and snares to entangle the CHRISTIANS with vain hope of their so much wished and expected peace till they might fortifie their Towns with all things needful for Achmat now succeeding Mahomet they aggravated the conditions of the peace propounding them very far from reason and sent from Constantinople in post to the Bassa of Buda forbidding him on pain of his Head any longer to continue the Treaty but forthwith to renew the Warre and yet during this negotiation of peace oft sought for by the Turks many a solemn 〈◊〉 had passed from Sultan Mahomet and the 〈◊〉 Bassa for their faithful dealing therein as By the God of Heaven and Earth By the Books of Moyses By Davids 〈◊〉 and By the Holy Evangelists Oaths much used in their greatest Solemnities and strongest assurances of their promises The Treaty for peace thus broken off some bruited that Achmat under the Conduct of the Visier his Governour was in person about to come into Hungary with a most huge Army others reported he was letted so to do by reason of the Persian Warres so that he would onely send a great Bassa with the remainder of his great Forces into Hungary being sworn never to return to Constantinople till he had brought Transilvania Valachia with the remainder of Hungary under Turkish obeisance together with Austria chiefly Vienna to which ends Achmat had rigorously in all places leavied great sums of money others also said that onely preparations for so great an Army should be made this year to do much with all the next and not return out of Hungary till 〈◊〉 had conquered all the rest of it in whose rent reliques the fortune of the Othomans had stayed So that all Handy-crafts men were employed day and night to prepare all things and Instruments for so great exploits to wit for the service of the Visier in Hungary and of Cicala Bassa in Persia having presumptuously promised 〈◊〉 to ruinate the Persian Estate which Eastern Warres much troubled the Turks newes still coming of Persian Conquests upon their Territories and that the Persian had lately taken Babylon with all the Countrey thereabout and that 〈◊〉 other Towns and Cities now yielded to the Persian as weary of the Turk's servitude and yet the Turks had given it out that the Persian King was nigh to Babylon wholly overthrown and himself taken so that the Turk's forces should now all joyn to the utter ruine of the Christians in HUNGARY also that the BEGLERBEG of Greece had raised a great power to joyn with the Visier Bassa that nothing might be left unconquered in Hungary causing a great number of Vessels 〈◊〉 with Powder and Warlike Provision to be brought out of Aegypt to Belgrade to ruinate the Christians all which reports were to cover their mishaps and terrifie their Enemies knowing that a false bruit believed worketh oft times the effect of a thing done Some at Constantinople now perswaded the Great Sultan that he might at one and the same time vanquish the Persian by Cicala and conquer the remainder of Hungary with Transilvania and Valachia by 〈◊〉 Visier it being they said both honourable and 〈◊〉 for a Prince to bestow both men and money to gain Men Honour and Empire So that things which with great charge might be done all at once were more profitable then though with lesse charge done at 〈◊〉 times and indeed men stood
Embassadors to the Grand Seignior and the Prince of Transilvania to negotiate and since Hungary was much exhausted what should be taken in Stiria Carinthia and Carniola to be united to it that it might the better resist the Turk all which tended to the prejudice and ruine of the House of Austria Bethlem knowing he had much incensed the Emperour and whole House of Austria by these actions he therefore in the end of this year sent an Embassador with Presents to Constantinople to crave assurance of the Sultans aid and support if the Emperour should invade Transilvania having first prevailed over the Bohemians where being countenanced by many chief Bassaes Osman confirmed unto him his constant support and protection by an Oath containing many fearful and Turkish imprecations Jan. 5th whereby Gabor assured in the beginning of 1620 called an Assembly of the States of Hungary at Presburg whither came Embassadors from the Bohemian King and States and incorporated Provinces concluding a mutual and perpetual League both there and then at Prague one of the Articles being that seeing there was chiefly need a peace to be made and kept with the Turk a new Embassage should be sent to the Sultan from them all and 〈◊〉 chiefly to undertake that business yet so that all should 〈◊〉 their Embassadors and bear their shares both for the Presents and Charges In June Bethlem Gabor at an Assembly-of the Hungarian States at Newhusall propounded That he very much desired to restore Hungary so afflicted to freedom and enjoyment of Religion and priviledges he sparing no cost for its lawful defence having as a Witness that he desired peace 〈◊〉 the Crown offered him at Presburg that the ground of peace was to maintain the League begun with the Bohemians That he always desired peace with other Princes help so it were sincere to obtain which he had aided his miserably afflicted Confederates That he knew the Emperour desired Warre who had let the Cossacks spoil many places of Hungary with fire and sword denying passage for the Bohemian and Austrian Embassadors wherefore they must now consult how Warre might be begun and maintained c. and for speedy sending Embassadors to the Turk lest being engaged in intestine Warre the frontier Forts should be attempted then there came Embassadors thither from Bohemia Austria Silesia Lusatia Poland Turkie and Venice this being content that Commonwèalth should enter a League the Turk also offering a perpetual League with them Aug. 25 Bethlem Gabor at the Turks instance and with the applause of most of the States was proclaimed King of Hungary by the Palatine and then he levied an Army of 30000 some say 50000 Horse and Foot with many Ensignes with divers Emblems and devices wherefore the Protestants of Vienna the Emperour consenting wrote humbly intreating to spare the City and Countrey for their innocent Wives and Childrens sakes yet all the Citizens the while were to provide for six moneths Victuals Constantinople had newes of an apparition seen at Medina in Arabia where 〈◊〉 being buried the Turks use to go in Pilgrimage to visit his Tombe but they must first go to Mecha a few days journey off for a Ticket from the Beglerbeg The Vision continued three weeks terrifying the whole Countrey because none could discover what it meant About Septemb. 20th there was such a Tempest and fearful thunder about midnight as the Heavens were darkned and those awake almost distracted but the Element being clear they might read these words therein in Arabick Oh why will ye 〈◊〉 in lies Between 2 and 3 a Clock a Woman in white was seen encompassed with the 〈◊〉 with chearful countenance and a Book in her hand From the North-west right against her came Armies of Turks Persians Arabians and other 〈◊〉 in order and ready to charge her but she stirred not onely opening the Book whereat they fled and presently all the Lamps about Mahomet's Tombe went out for the Vision vanishing commonly an hour before Sun rising they heard a murmuring wind imputing their extinguishment thereto The ancient Pilgrims of Mahomet's race who visiting this place cut not their 〈◊〉 were much amazed as not conceiving the meaning hereof but a Derviser or Turkish Capuchin living in contemplation stepping boldly up said to the Company The World had rever but three true Religions each having a Prophet first God choosing the Jewes did wonders for them in Aegypt bringing them out by Moses who gave them a Law wherein he would have maintained them if not obstinate rebellious and idolatrous so he gave them over scattering them upon the face of the Earth Presently after he raised a new Prophet who taught the Christian Religion which Good Man the Jews 〈◊〉 as a Seducer not moved with his Piety great Miracles or Doctrine yet afterwards the preaching of a few Fishermen so moved mens hearts as the greatest Monarchs bowed to his very Title and yielded to the command of his Ministers but their Church being dismembred into East and West and idolatrously setting up Images with many idle Ceremonies God was weary of them too sending divisions among them and also forsaking them dispossessed them of Jerusalem and Constantinople Yet God the Governour of the World raised great Mahomet giving way to our Nation so that we shall be for ever happy if we can serve this God aright and take example by others fall But alas I tremble to speak it we have erred in all points wilfully breaking our first Institutions so as God hath shewed his wrath by evident signs keeping our Prophet from us who set a time to return with all happinesse to his People 40 years being past by our account Wherefore this strange and fearful Vision foretells some great troubles and Changes For either the opening of the Woman's Book foretells our falling from 〈◊〉 first intent of our Law whereat these armed men depart as confounded with guilt of Conscience or 〈◊〉 other Book in which we have not yet read and against which no power shall prevail so as I fear our Religion will be proved corrupt and our Prophet an Impostor and then this Christ whom they talk of shall shine like the Sun and set up his Name everlastingly The company at this word charging him with Blasphemy a Capitall offence condemned him and by the Beglerbegs warrant put him to Death not beheading or strangling him as they usually do but stripping him naked gave him 100 blows on the soles of his Feet till the blood came forth the poor Priest crying still upon the Woman that opened the Book Then they beat all his Body with a Bulls pizzel till his sinewes crackt and laying him on a Wheel with an Indian Sword of Sinewes they brake his bones to pieces He crying to the last gasp Oh thou Woman with the Book save me The Beglerbeg when as there was a fearful tempest sent some Spahies to advertise the Sultan of these tydings Michna being made Vayuod of Moldavia by Achmat and the Polonian party wholly