apparrel her the Image was so fantasied in her troubled brain that waking she thought she saw him and sleeping longed for him Accecozza the while besieging her Fathers Castle she often went into a high Turret to see the Martiall deeds on both sides c. But on the first sight of Abdurachman's approach to the siege she thought he was the man dreamed of wherefore waiting another time of his approach to the Castle she cast down a Letter fastened to a stone in Greek which he delivered to Accecozza promising after her affections discovery to deliver the Castle in the night to Abdurachman he returning with a few after the siege raised Accecozza giving small credit thereto for fear of treason yet said to Abdurachman Seeing she hath on special liking chosen thee Wilt thou adventure He said he would undertake it if it were his pleasure Accecozza sharply 〈◊〉 the Castle and presently as despairing brake up his siege The Defendants rejoycing hereat surcharged themselves that night with excess Abdurachman came to the appointed place of the Castle where she was attending and by her means being conveighed in and so to the Porters lodg he slew the Porter a sleep and let his 〈◊〉 in at the gates who took the Captain overtaken with Wine and fast asleep who with his daughter and rich spoil being presented by Abdurachman to Orchanes He glad gave her with most of the prey to him There was also one Cararachman so dreadful that the Constantinopolitans would pacifie their children saying Cararachman comes Cunger Alpes and Accecozza shortly dying Orchanes made Solyman aud Amurath his Sons Governours of those Countries He intending to besiege 〈◊〉 took divers small holds in his march thitherward which being governed by a Lady Andronicus his kinswoman she doubting her forces ability to hold the siege yielded the City on condition with whom she would she might depart with lives liberties and goods so shipping for Constantinople Solyman was made Governour of Nicomedia The Temples were converted to Turkish Meschitas The greatest being turned into a School for the Students of Mahomet's Law yet called Orchanes his Colledge who placed divers the most experienced Souldiers with Pensions and possessions for defence of the Countrey near and open to the Sea in danger of the Constantinopolitan Galleys Then by Aladin's Counsel all his men wore white caps which the Jannizaries now use to be known from others wearing red The Turks then and long after did not shave their beards so that the King in disgrace would command a mans beard to be cut or shaven They borrowed cutting or shaving of the Italians also many other fashions contrary to their ancient ones Orchanes removing his Court to Nice built a sumptuous Temple appointing a Preacher for every Fryday also two fair Abbies in one of which himself served the strangers and poor the first dinner He first builded Abbeys and Monasteries whom most his successours imitated He gave Solyman great charge to be vigilant over Taxara 〈◊〉 and Mudurne nigh Nicomedia all which Towns with the Couutries joyning he soon got by composition from the Christians Solyman so tempering justice with clemency that many Christians became of his Religion and under his government not changing the Countries politique Laws which greatly won their-hearts 〈◊〉 was made Lord of Prusa Carachisar Castle with its Seigniory Orchanes gave his Cosen 〈◊〉 Orchanes by perswasion of Turson Beg the King of Charasia's Son whose subjects when dead denyed the elder brother wishing Turson their Soveraign went with an Army into that Country surprizing to his own use many Holds by the way Orchanes entred Turson's elder brother fled to 〈◊〉 the Turks pursuing where Turson approaching to speak with his brother was slain from the Walls Orchanes hereupon threatning to destroy all with fire and sword if they submitted not by a day to mercy the people terrified yielded themselves The Kings Son also on reasonable conditions who sent to Prusa died there after two years of the Plague Solyman being then made Prince of Carazina One of the greatest Successours of Sulten Alaain there by took end whose Dominions were not small Orchanes returning or his good successe built a Temple and Monastery at Prusa seeking for religious men out of all his Kingdom of which religious men the Turks write many Fables Orchanes so augmented his Kingdom that viewing Europe from many parts of Asia and 〈◊〉 with desire of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 devised how to passe narrow Hellespont into Europe which he imparting to his Son Solyman he answered He if he pleased doubted not to passe the strait and plant 〈◊〉 Religion in those Countries His Father much 〈◊〉 gave him leave to depart and proceed as he thought best therein who journeying into Carasina made to the place as for pleasure where Troy was said to have stood by the Sea side And standing a great while still in a study without speaking to any 〈◊〉 a Chieftain boldly said My Lord what strange thing is this c. 't is some great matter thou 〈◊〉 studying on It is said Solyman I was thinking how to passe this Sea to view Europe and return undiscovered Said Ezesbeg joyning Fazilbeg We two will by God's power perform this They shewed Solyman 〈◊〉 to know what place they would 〈◊〉 over and shortly after making a little boat or raffe arrived by night in Europe side near Zemenick Castle of the Greeks called 〈◊〉 or Hogs Castle not 〈◊〉 from 〈◊〉 where finding a good sensible Greek in a 〈◊〉 returning back presented him to Solyman who gave him great gifts and rich apparel learning at length of him how to take Zemenick Castle at unawares For which boats being peedily made Solyman with 80 chosen men passed the Strait not past an Italian mile over with their guide who brought him to a 〈◊〉 at the Castle so high that getting in in harvest time they easily won 〈◊〉 Solyman sought by courtesie rather 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to win the Inhabitants good wills yet some of the better he sent into Asia returning in one day 200 〈◊〉 more into Europe and sent 〈◊〉 in small Vessels to 〈◊〉 the Christians Vessels 〈◊〉 they should 〈◊〉 his passage so 〈◊〉 few daies he had 2000 Turks in Europe who doing no violence to the vulgar Christians they began to like of them and 〈◊〉 without 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 some of them had sundry times come over yet this was the first coming of the Turks 〈◊〉 conguer and inhabit whose posterity was never since removed but have joyned to their Asian Kingdom agreat part of Europe also Solyman took 〈◊〉 Castle 2 miles from Zemenick Castle strongly 〈◊〉 both 〈◊〉 After which the Turks came in 〈◊〉 number into Europe to dwell in 〈◊〉 Solyman in their room sending Christians into Asia Such was the negligence and security of the Greeks that when 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 taking was carried 〈◊〉 to Constantinople they to extenuate 〈◊〉 said 〈◊〉 was but a Hogstie lost 〈◊〉 to the Castles 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 foolish laughter as saith a grave one of their own
prevailing have possessed it to this day These Cities thus or as aforesaid taken Amurath seated his Court at Hadrianople as the most fit place for enlarging his Kingdom from whence a world of woe hath overflowed great part of Christendom drowning many Kingdoms in Europe the Greeks of all other most miserable The proud Sultan now presently sent Lala Scahin to invade about Philopolis with the Country Zagora toward Haemus and charging Eurenoses to subdue Ipsala's Territory who soon subjected them all wherein he shortly placed Sanzacks or Governours for better assurance thereof Cara Rustemes a Mahometan Doctor suggesting it Zinderlu Chelil their chief Justice afterwards Catradin Bassa by Amurath's command ordered every fifth Captive above 15 years old to be taken up as due by Law for the King and if under 5 to pay 25 Aspers a head as tribute Cara the deviser being chief Collector hereof numbers of Christian youths were by Zinderlu's Counsel distributed among the Asian husbandmen to learn the Turkish Religion language and manners where after two or three years painful labour they at Court the better sort were chosen to attend on and serve the Prince in wars where they practizing all activity are called Jannizaries that is new Souldiers This was their first beginning but increased under Amurath 2 and hath ever since been continued by that and some greater means being in time so great that they are oft dreadful to the great Turk himself and sometimes preferring that Son they best like to the Empire contrary to the will of the Deceased Sultan now the greatest strength of that Empire and being conrinual Garrisons of martial men not unlike to be the greatest cause of its ruin Amurath after a great while determining to return to Asia made Scahin Viceroy of Romania Eurenoses Governour of the marches Zinderlu President of his Councel calling him Cairadin Bassa that is the Bassa wel deserving Then returning he spent that Winter at Prusa Cairadin Cara once two Doctors as Turkish histories report first corrupted that Court with coverousness and bribery as yet of them much blamed Amurath thus in Asia hearing the Servians Bulgarians had gathered an Army to besiege Hadrianople he greatly prepared for aid in Europe taking Boga in his way putting all Christians that could bear Arms to the sword captivating the rest his Souldiers had the spoil which Town ere long they recovering gave them like measure and razing it yet it was rebuilt by the Turks in 1365. The Servian c. Army now near Hadrianople mutinied among themselves which the Turks espying set suddenly on them by night who through inward hatred joyned not against them being ready to turn their Weapons on each other whereby the Turks put to flight slew them with such a slaughter that the place is at this day called Zirf Zindugi or the place where the Servians were overthrown This notable news with the spoils fifth part and many Christians heads were sent to Amurath in Asia who then returned to Prusa this was in 1366. This year he triumphantly circumcised his Sons Bajazet and Jacup building Temples a Monastery two Colledges and a Pallace at Bilezuga Neapolis and Prusa Germean Ogli having alwaies envied as did the other Selzuccian Princes and fearing the Othoman Kings greatness might be dangerous to his Son after his death now very aged sent Isaac a Mahometan Doctor to Amurath with rich presents to offer his daughter Hatun in marriage to Bajazet promising with her divers great Cities and Towns as Cutai c. with their Territories Cutai being now the City where the Turks great Viceroy is resident as in the heart of lesser Asia Amurath liking it well contracted Bajazet unto her and preparing with great magnificence for the marriage invited most Mahometan Princes and commanding most of his Nobles to honour it with their presence The Aegyptians Embassadour had the highest place of all the others before invited who all presented Amurath with many great gifts beseeming their Masters At length Eurenoses one of his own Nobles besides many rich gifts presented him with 100 goodly Christian captive boys and as many maidens richly attired with a cup of gold with divers precious stones in one hand and a silver cup full of gold in their other the Embassad ours wondring at the richnesse hereof All which Amurath bestowed on them and their presents on Eurenoses None also of the learned and religious came thither so poor but he went away rich He sent divers Nobles with 100 Ladies c. 3000 horsmen to attend the brides coming whom Germean Ogli meeting saluted every man of account feasting them royally with Princely gifts in one of his Cities And delivering Hatun to two ancient Ladies one Bajazet's nurse sent her away with his wife Jenses and other Courtiers being most royally married at Prusa The dowry promised was delivered Amurath garrisoning the Cities and Towns Chusen-beg Prince of Amisum sold that Territory to Amurath at this marriage with many others doubring as was thought how to keep them Amurath being come so near him Amurath spending great time in Asia committing that Kingdom to Bajazets and Temurtases his Government returned into Europe with a strong Army marching from Callipolis towards Hadrianople soon winning Magalgara by the way whither Lala Scahin and Eurenoses coming he sent them to besiege Pherae which they took after few daies But leading his Army into Servia and forraging the Country 14 daies presently marched to Nissa the Metropolis and Key of that Kingdom winning it shortly by Jaxis Begs advice Lazarus the Despot was so danted hereat that for peace he offered 50000 li. tribute yearly and 1000 mens aid when he required it Amurath granted him peace and deparfed Then with much a do he won great Apolonia near Mount Athos the Christians departing with wives c. and goods not spoyled by the Souldiers Returning to Hadrianople Eurenoses left shortly took Berrhea c. Then also Scahin won Zichne and Seres in Macedonia's confines with many other upon Thessaly and Thrace who made his abode in Seres great numbers being sent for from Asia to inhabit thereabouts forsaken by the Christians Aladin advertised out of Asia that Aladin King of Caramania his son in Law invaded him with fire sword was exceedingly troubled Wherefore telling his Nobles c. what Aladin so getting all bonds of Religion alliance c. had done whilst he sought with honour the Mahometan sincere Religions increase in Europe from which godly wars said he I am forced to turn against men joyned with us in Religion and alliance he appointed Chairadin Basa his 〈◊〉 and his Son Alis one of his Councel so passing into Asia and so to Prusa he there spent that Winter To whom Aegyptian Embassadours then coming to renew former amity he thankfully sent them back with kind Letters and rewards At Spring in 1387 he levying a great Army to war on the Caramanian he prepared no lesse power to meet him associating to him
Sigefrid Collonitz for the Emperour who coming to 〈◊〉 told of a number of rebellious Turks at Belgrade who rifled it and burning down Alischria to the ground went over to the Rebels and that Redeius going to take possession of some Lands Botscay gave him was slain by his Tenants waiting for him upon a strait passage The Emperours Embassador deferring to set forward with the Presents to Constantinople the Turks and Tartars began to roam abroad into the Christians Territories and caused the Pledges of the peace at Buda to be hardly used and clapt fast in prison whom the Bassa soon suffering a little to walk abroad the Janizaries tumulting had almost slain him with stones and with many reproaches called him Traytor and wounding grievously one of the pledges wherefore the Bassa next night had some of them secretly taken and cast bound into Danubius yet shortly after purposing to make an inroad to colour their harms they caused the Bassa of Buda to write to the arch Duke of great wrongs done by the Christians when as there was no such thing at all The Sultan desirous first to appease his troubles at home before he further dealt with the Persian sent a 〈◊〉 to the Bassa of Aleppo to lay down Arms and deliver over his charge to whom he had appointed it promising hereupon to pardon him of all past and to receive him into favour who answered he never took up Arms against him but to be revenged of the Bassaes of Damasco and Tripolis his sworn Enemies who taken out of the way he would both yield himself unto him and re-deliver the Tribute sent out of Aegypt and if he pleased to employ him to bring great forces against the Persian The Sultan not contented sent the Visier with a great Army against the Asian Rebels who by wisdom and discretion more than by force appeasing those in lesser Asia with 130000 men marched towards Aleppo whose Bassa with 40000 men most Harquebusiers in a place of advantage but two miles from the City in three notable Battels withstood his whole forces but preparing for a fourth encounter and hearing of great ayd coming from the Bassaes of Damasco and Tripolis he speedily retired into the City and trussing up his Treasure c. fled into the Mountains towards Persia most of his Army being left following him after which the Visier taking Aleppo by force put all the Garrison-Souldiers to the Sword But the Bassa forsaken by many of his former friends by Letters requested the Visier to write for him to the Sultan if possible to procure his peace which easily obtained the Sultan by Letters sent for him to Constantinople assuring him of being employed against the Persian so the Bassa there arriving with 100 Horse before many Bassaes humbled himself to the Sultan who both pardoned him and for his ancient descent great valour and fair conditions took him into favour and restored him all his goods The Sultan the mean while had by the Tartar Cham in vain sought for peace with the Persian King for he demanded the restoring of Tauris with all Provinces taken from him by the Persians which he utterly denied as formerly belonging to his Ancestors then also the Persian King wrote to the King of Spain to this effect though they were divided in Religion yet in power and hatred against the Othoman Empire conjoyned and considering he was become his powerful Neighbour in the East he most entirely loved him wherefore he had commanded all his Provinces in India and thereabouts to be wholly courteous to his Subjects demanding no Tribute of them and he having recovered the 〈◊〉 of Aden had appointed it to the service of the Spanish Governour of 〈◊〉 that all Christians dwelling in his Kingdom should enjoy the same priviledges which his own Subjects had and that he had for seven years warred against the Turks who by Treason had taken from him that strong Town 〈◊〉 for recovery whereof he had divers times overthrown his Armies but since he resolved not to cease till he had driven them out of those parts and recovered the seat of Ismael and Juchell in Babylon and Caire he requested him to confederate with him and send his dreadful Fleet into the Persian Gulf whereby he could easily become Lord of Syria and Aegypt Then he reckons up the Presents he sent him the Images of Ismael Juchel and Jonas with his own in gold and set with most rich Stones and Pearls a writing Table garnished with fair precious Stones four Doggs naturally spotted with red yellow and blew two pieces of Arras adorned with most precious Stones and Pearl wherein were Tamerlane's acts lively to be seen four Hunters Horns very smooth and richly garnished twelve most gallant Plumes of feathers of divers sorts six drinking-Glasses not to be broken and Couch-Beds like unto Chaires having the ancient Warres between Ascanius and Chiusa King of the Medes The Emperour in August calling together the Hungarian States to Presburg they long expecting the coming of the arch-Duke appointed President in that Assembly were about to return home in the beginning of September but they were content by the arch-Bishops Request to stay 15 dayes more and no longer for the Tartars having requested a place in the Borders of Hungary to dwell in they desired much that Parliament to be adjourned for their more timely preventing of their designs and the Turks the while hoping the peace would not long hold came so to Buda that Tents were set up for them to lay in within the City for the Bassa would have none set up in the Fields lest the Christians should suspect them to be about raising of an Army But the arch-Duke not coming the States wrote a solemn Protestation before the Chapter of the Cathedrall that they departed from Presburg not upon discontent or contumacy but for want of necessaries and other their urgencies yet if the Emperour should call another Parliament they would be ready upon summons to return and consult of all things good for the Commonweale so nothing were propounded contrary to the Articles of Vienna against which they would ratifie nothing though by the Emperour allowed Which Protestation they requested to have registred sealed with the Chapters Seal After whose departure the Haiducks most discontented with this general peace began to raise new stirs craving ayd of the Turks and Tartars and not of their now loyal Countreymen and a number of them flocking to Buda the Bassa with other Commanders consulted what to do with these fit instruments for disturbing of the peace so he wrote to them of Comara except they better kept the Articles they should shortly hear of new matters but the while the Sultan writing to the Bassa that though the Christians were said to increase their strength yet he to attempt nothing against them till they proceeded to open force c. the Turks again departed from Buda most of their Ordnance brought from Sigeth being carried back But the States of Hungary
those Electors being bound 〈◊〉 the Emperour both for their Electorship and in respect of Bohemia they could not they said but send him present ayd to which end they had some thousands of Souldiers ready in their frontiers About May 17th Matthias marched towards Prague with 18000 Collonitz following him with the rest and though he had severely commanded his men not to rob spoil or burn and had hanged some headed others therefore yet some would be stragling sometimes and doing harm chiefly the Hungarians who ran out as far as the Emperour's Camp and new Prague whom yet the Imperials though 20000 strong let alone the Emperour so commanding howbeit some of them going too far abroad were by the Country-men slain May 23 the States of Bohemia were assembled at Prague the Emperor being present where they promised to spend lives and goods in his quarrel yet requested divers things to be granted and confirmed the chief whereof were that Religion according to the Confession of Bohemia and Augusta should not be violated and the Professors of either not scoffe or despise each other the arch-Bishop not to meddle with civil affaires that Protestants and Patrons of the University of Prague should be joyned to the Consistory as in Ferdinand's time Political Office not to be void above a moneth to which men of both Religions should be admitted every man to enjoy his right and no decree published against it Every man to have access to the Emperour and not all to be done by his Councellours all men to know what was treason a difference to be made bet 〈◊〉 offences and none for a leight one to lose goods life and reputation the suits of Widows Orphans and others to be expedited and not from day to day deferred the Father not to pay the Sonnes debt which he ran into without his knowledge but the Sonne himself Lawyers which plead Causes to be content with fees by common decrees appointed them and in any wise they requested the Emperour to ease them of these griefs before compelled to answer to what was to be propounded in his behalf most things he easily granted those which concerned Religion onely excepted which were put off unto the next Assembly About the end of May Matthias's Embassadors came to Prague upon safe conduct who caused their charge to be read before the Councel out of a long writing in the Bohemian Tongue then being put aside and a while after called again they were answered That the points were of more weight than to be sufficiently deliberated of so soon wherefore they thought meet that Commissioners on both sides meeting in open field nigh Debritse should consult there of those Articles who at length accordingly so wrought by often going to and fro that the Emperour and arch Duke were again made friends the Articles of which pacification were June 17th openly read in the Castle of Prague according to the first whereof the Crown of Hungary with its Ornaments as King Stephen's Sword the Golden Apple with the Crosse of the Kingdom upon it two pair of rich shooes a very ancient Robe with a royal 〈◊〉 were by the Emperours chief Lievtenant delivered to the arch-Duke Matthias to whom also the arch-Dukedom of Austria before by the Emperour possessed was surrendred who with his Army ranged in order c. commanded three great Vollies of shot to be discharged and then royally feasted the Emperours Embassadors and many of Matthias his Camp especially the Hungarians went into Prague to buy necessaries many coming also out of the City to see his Camp but the while some insolent Souldiers by night breaking up some Shops of the Jewes and carrying away much rich Wares caused great stirs so that divers Souldiers were cast into prison July 1 King Matthias departed from Prague with his chief Councellors towards Lintze dividing his Army into three parts for their more easie passage but one Cottovitz a Noble Bohemian to whom the Hungarians and Haiducks had done great 〈◊〉 in this expedition with 600 Harquebusiers and many Countreymen went to Patrovitse where cutting off the passage and cutting down Trees acrosse the wayes he slew about 900 Hungarians coming that way carrying away some prisoners with much booty of Horses Wagons and Goods whereupon the Hungarians trod down the Corn as they went and began to fire the Villages and Houses thereabouts but the King by the General of Horse commanded them not onely to desist but upon a great penalty to help quench the fires they had raised In the mean time great preparation was made at Vienna for receiving K. Matthias and bringing him into the City according to his Dignity which triumphs and Solemnities ended when as they there began to consult of things concerning the good Government of Hungary and crowning of the King and that the Protestant States of Austria began to exercise their Religion according to the Confession of Augusta Leopold the arch-Duke and Bishop of Passavia Melinus the Popes Nuntio Cardinall Forgats and the Bishop of Vienna came and by earnest soliciting of the King obtained that that exercise of Religion should be again abrogated the Temples shut and publique preaching forbidden whereupon the Protestant States calling a Councel refused the Oath of allegiance to the new King till they had obtained the liberty of their Religion commanding all their Subjects and Tenants to be ready in arms and if need were every 30th 10th or 5th man to be prest to the Warres but they supplicating unto the King 180 Nobles subscribing thereto and being answered onely to desist from their purpose and appear forthwith to take the Oath they Septemb 14 going to Horne by Letters to the Popish States protested themselves clear of all the evils to ensue if they should take their Oath of allegiance to the King and so raised an Army beginning by all meanes to provide for their affaires but the States of Bohemia and Moravia informed them that they would intercede for them to the King yet not to be wanting to them at their need Letters the mean time came to Vienna from Constantinople declaring Matthias's Embassadors to have on his behalf promised faithfully to keep the peace and the Sultan to have received the presents before the chief Bassaes but he would in no wise grant them the Government of Transilvania giving it to Gabriel Bathor and commanding the Bassa of Buda to establish him in that principality About the beginning of October 2 Counts were sent to the Protestant States at Horne Maximilian the arch-Duke following them who by no meanes or promises could draw them to take the Oath of allegiance without the freedom of their Religion but Octob. 16th the Popish States took that Oath to King Matthias at Vienna with Ordnance Drums and Trumpets thundring and sounding and great feasting triumph and solemnity which done Matthias came Octob. 22 to Presburg being brought by the Hungarian Nobles with 10000 Souldiers into the City who Novemb. 6th offered the King some Articles in
But the Turks oppressed with multitudes still landing fled into the Town leaving their Governour with 500 dead on the shoar This rich and populous City had since the sormer taking been strongly fortifyed by the Turks with deep ditches high walls c. and 〈◊〉 with all things for a long siege Yet the Souldiers and Citizens remembring the miseries endured in the former siege the night following fled over the River by a bridge made of Boats and brake it lest they should be followed having first fired their houses The Christians entring the City did what they could to quench the fire and afterwards found abundance of riches with store of victuals This happened about the beginning of Octob in 1249. Meledine herewith discouraged offered the King for peace and the redeeming thereof more in 〈◊〉 and Syria then they had before a long time which was by the French proudly rejected and Alexandria the Metropolis further demanded Meledine not much beloved now died in whose stead Melechsala couragious welbeloved even then returning from craving aid of the Mahometan Princes was chosen which Princes though not according among themselvs or with the Aegytian yet in this common danger of Superstition joyned sending him great aid Who being strengthned hotly skirmished with the Christians not far from Damiata wherein he retired with some losse But the Christians sallying out the next day fled to the Camp with ten times more losse Whereby the Sultan encouraged hoped for better success stopping that without great peril no victuals could be brought to City or Camp so that victuals began to grow scarce whereof he was informed by fugitives that fled for want It fortuned that the Governour of Caire not ill affected to the Christian Religion and highly offended with the Sultan for his Brothers wrongfull death secretly perswaded the King to come thither with his Army promising to deliver it to him with instructions what to do Whereupon he assembled what forces he could make sending also for the Earl of Salisbury who with the English was gone to Ptolemais for indignities offered him by Artoys the King's brother purposing to serve no more But with promise of better usage and recompence for wrongs he returned into Egypt And more strengthened by new supplies from France leaving a convenient Garrison in Damiata set forward towards Caire Wherefore the Sultan offered to restore him all 〈◊〉 with a great summe of money and all prisoners so he would redeliver Damiata and joyn in League with him Which offer through others perswasion he refused The King was to passe an Arme of Nilus but being conducted by a fugitive Saracen to a foord he 〈◊〉 Robert of Artoys his brother with a 3d part before accompanied with the Masters of the Templars and Earle of Sarisbury Who assailing the Turks in their tents in the Sultans absence put them to flight Artois above measure encouraged would needs on forwards whom the antient Templars acquainted with that Nations deceitful manners and considering their own strength better then he perswaded him not further to prosecute the enemie till the rest of the Armies coming To whom he in despight replied he would prosecute c. calling them cowards objecting to them the common fame that the holy Land might long since have been united to the Christians Common-wealth but for the false collusion of the Templars and 〈◊〉 with the Infidels The Master moved answered he should when he would and where he durst display his Ensignes c. Sarisbury also perswaded Robert to listen to the wholesome Counsel of the Templars being experienced men beginning also to pacifie the Master with gentle words Whom whilst speaking Robert called Dastard wishing the Army rid of him and the fearful Cowards his Country men Who answered well General on my foot shall be as far as yours and I believe we go where you shall not dare to come nigh my Horses tail He said so because the French had in disdain often called him and his English Tailes The Earle not to be perswaded first assaulted a little place called Mansor who was about to retire having lost a number of his men The Sultan suddenly came on with his whole power and with his multitude enclosed the long wished-for divided Christian Army in which great fight though they worthily behaved themselves yet being a small number they were slain down right Then the too late repenting Earle cried out to Sarisbury valiantly fighting to fly c. who answered God forbid my Fathers son should run from the face of a Saracen The French Earle swiftly fleeing and taking the River Thasues overladed with armour was drowned Sarisbury with his own hand slew many that day till his Horse being slain and he so wounded in the legs that he could not stand yet desperately laid about him on his knees and was there slain scarce more than 2 Templars 1 Hospitaller and 1 Common Souldier escaped alive Sicknesse also increasing in the Camp the King sent many sick people to 〈◊〉 down 〈◊〉 purposing to march to Caire whom the Sultan by meeting them with boats carried in Carts burnt and drowned all except one English man who wound 〈◊〉 5 places escaped reporting it to the rest The Sultan 〈◊〉 now intelligence of the Governour to betray Cair suddenly apprehended him till better leisure the King had all his hope of the City hereby cut off who now would gladly accept of the refused conditions which the Sultan would not hear of but sent in derision to know what was become of all his mattocks forks c. which he brought with him why like an ill husband he suffered them to rot and rust by him The King would fain have retired to Damiata but the Sultan got betwixt him and home so that he must fight it out or yield Who being before often intreated by his Nobles for safety of his person to conveigh himself by water to Damiata would never be perswaded saying He was resolved to endure with his people whatever God should lay upon him So passing the foord afore-mentioned coming where his Brother's battle was fought he might see the mangled Christians the Sultan having proclaimed great reward to whomsoever brought him a Christians head or hand Long he staied not there but the Sultan appeared with a most huge Army against whom the French men for 3 hours made great resistance But one being against ten and the Army fainting for sicknesse and food they were at last all except a few saved in hope of great ransome slain The King with two Brothers was taken also who to the Sultan demanding why he warred against him answered 't was for Religion and the defence of his God's name This was fought Apr. 5. 1250. most of the French Nobility being slain The Sultan presently sent a like number of his souldiers with French attire and Ensignes to Damiata where the Duke of Burgundy French Queen and the Pop's Legate lay but they were by them of the City discovered and so kept out
was forced to retire with loss So fort fying divers places thereabout he charged the Garrisons with incursions to cut the Citizens so short that they should not dare look out The 〈◊〉 hereby were soon 〈◊〉 to burn houses for fewel which done he 〈◊〉 to Nice Baldwin 2 of small courage and lesse power now reigned in Constantinople who for maintenance sold the publick Ornaments of the City and pawned his Son to the Bruges Marchants left by them at Venice to be brought up Mango great Cham of Tartary now being stirred by Aiton the Armenian King through whom he received the Christian Religion sent his brother Haalon with an exceeding Army against the Turks in 〈◊〉 and Palestine who 〈◊〉 a Christian in 6 months over-ran all Persia with the adjoyning Countries except as some say Samarchand afterward the seat of Tamerlaine in the mountains which besieged with 10000 horsemen was continued 27 years and at length as Aiton writes yielded for want of cloaths to cover the Defendants Haalon marching on not missing the 10000 entring into Assyria besieging Babylon whose Caliph as Mahomet's true successour was above all honoured they from him receiving their Laws interpretation 〈◊〉 winning it put all to the sword inriching his Souldiers with its spoil and the Caliph's treasure commanding the Caliph to be set in the midest of the infinite treasure saying in derision Such a 〈◊〉 guest should be fed with nought but things of best price c. The covetous wretch thus kept certain daies dyed for hunger Babylon sacked and almost raced the Tartar took Rhoais in Mesopotamia where Aiton came to him with 12000 horse and 40000 foot So entring Syria took Aleppo which he sacked and razed in 1260. Then came Malacnesar Sultan of Damasco Syria and Palestine humbling himself before him in hope to save somewhat but he was either carried far into exile or more probably afterward cut in pieces under Damasco to his Sons terrour after a double assault yet he took it together with that Kingdom and sacked it overthrowing all the Mahometan Temp es as before he had done But purposing to conquer Palestine 〈◊〉 died upon which news he returned back after almost 6 years expedition in hope of his brothers Empire At which time the Christians affairs might have been easily repaired had the Western Princes put to their helps as did the Tartars but they busied with wars and fatal discord let slip that seldom or never so fair opportunity Haalon left his Son Abaga with 20000 horsemen 〈◊〉 the Christians if they should come who hearing of his Fathers troubles at home left Guirboca with 10000 horsmen to like purpose who was with his Tartars of a friend made a foe to the Christians whose Souldiers fetching booty out of the Tartars Territory refused to restore it and evilly entreated those sent to demand it 〈◊〉 his Nephew being slain in farther quarrels who in revenge took sacked and burnt down Sidon and afterwards doing the Christians all harm they could devise This discord occasioned 〈◊〉 the Aegyptian Sultan with a great Army of Mamalukes and others to enter Syria and spoil about Damasco with whom Guiborcas joyning battel with a number far inferiour was slain with most of his Tartars the rest fleeing into Armenia Syria and Palestine 〈◊〉 hereby again to the Aegyptian except few places which shortly also did For Bandacader succeeding Melech took Antioch from the Christians with most of the other places he burnt the City and razed the Castle and then did great harm in Armenia also The Turks Kingdom going to wrack in Syria their affairs in lesser Asia went 〈◊〉 then much better for Jathatines having lost Iconium to the Tartars 〈◊〉 fled to the Emperour 〈◊〉 in hope to be relieved for the kindness he before 〈◊〉 him fleeing from Theodore he requested him either with some 〈◊〉 to aid him or 〈◊〉 assign him some corner where with his wife children and followers with much wealth he might rest The Emperour encumbred with wars thought not good to diminish his forces and a place to inhabit in seemed as dangerous because he a great Prince was not like to be content with a little his dispersed Nobles hearing he was seared being likely to resort to him also yet was loath unkindly to cast him off Therefore with fair words he held him long in suspence At length in his absence he was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 his train about 1200 to get to Aenus of Thracia by the Sea coast where as an honourable prisoner at large he lived through watchful eies not able to escape as he desired Paleologus after 2 years reign sent Alexius Strategopulus against the Despot of Epirus to represse his 〈◊〉 with little above 800 Bythinians and to take up what he needed in Macedonia and Thracia commanding him to passe thorow the Suburbs of Constantinople to terrifie the Latines who passing over Propontis encamped at Regium not far off where lighting upon poor labouring Greeks dwelling in the City he enquired of them the state thereof c. who told him their strength was smal that most thereof was at the siege of Daphnusia a Town by the Euxian Sea and as ill affected to the Latins government offered to shew him a means of entrance into the City which was by an old Mine almost swarved up near the gate this secret way into the City not being known to any other promising by night to let in at this hole 50 of his best Souldiers c. Few daies after by night at an hour appointed they received them who aided by them and their 〈◊〉 slew the watch and brake open the gate whereby Alexius entring and putting his men in order caused the 〈◊〉 to be fired in 4 places which terribly burning was come almost to the Emperour's Pallace who awaked and seeing the City all on fire perceiving it to no purpose to make head with his few Latines fled with the Patriarch and some others into Euboca by Sea and thence to 〈◊〉 afterwards to 〈◊〉 of France hoping to be relieved by them The chief Latines fled after Constantinople thus fell into the Greeks hands in 261 being possessed by the Latins about 58 years This joyful news was soon carried to 〈◊〉 who at first believed it 〈◊〉 it being by 〈◊〉 weak a power surprized But afterwards caused Hymns and Psalms to be sung in every Temple with all other signs of joy and triumph So being wholly busied in preparing for Constantinople he with his wife and Andronicus his Son 2 years old entred the City on foot and after prayers and thanks went to the Pallace near the Tilt-yard for the other during the Latins reign had 〈◊〉 ruinous and defaced And shortly after caused Alexius Caesar the Cities recoverer in triumph robes and Crown of gold on his head with great pomp to be carried thorough the City and that his name for one year should be joyned to the Emperours in solemn prayers and 〈◊〉 causing also his lively Image to be set on a Marble
being converted into most bi ter 〈◊〉 Solyman's strength thus encreasing he spoyled almost to Callipolis about 22 miles off whose Governour perceiving the Turk began to long for the City went out against him with what power he 〈◊〉 all the other Greeks lying still but he was overthrown and fled into his City the Turks following spoyled the Countrey and returning took both City and Castle in 1358. The Constantinopolitans making small account of its losse commonly said jesting The Turks had took from them but a pottle of Wine But they got in few years so far into Thracia that Amarah placed his Seat in Hadrianople and Bajaxet his Son laid hard siege some years to the Imperial City and had not Tamerlain's expedition to him fatal then happened he had carried it But Solyman certified his Father what he had done and that it was expedient speedily to send him a great supply for keeping what he had got as for further invasion Orchanes welcoming this Message commanded the Saracens likewise who were come into Caracina to possess their dwellings who were gone into Europe to passe over which they did Solyman omitted not to win small Holds and people them with Turks they of Caracina also placing themselves as in a new world For which and to extend the Turkish Dominions and Religion they refused no pains Not far from Callipolis was the little Castle 〈◊〉 whose valiant Captain Calo Joannes molested the Turks on that side under Ezesbeg slaying and taking many at advantage Solyman much argred learning when he was gone out for some exploit beset the Castle placing others in by waies lest he should any waies escape The Captain ignorant thinking to return with a Turk prisoner was pursued by Fazilbeg and hasting fell into the Turks ambush where all his men slain and he taken his head was struck off before his own Castle which forthwith surrendred and Chazi Ilibeg placed therein who thence troubled the Country to Didymothicum as 〈◊〉 from Callipolis who gave divers places taken thus in one year in Europe to his Captains and Souldiers as by the Tombs of Ezes and Fazil-beg there appeareth Solyman hawking in Bolare fields on Europe side was overthrown in a ditch and with the fall shortly died whose Father Orchanes then laying sick justly sorrowing within two moneths died about 1359 80 years old reigning 31. Some report otherwise of his death and time wherein he lived But John Leunclave in his History of the Turks Chronicles reporteth as before He was wise courteous and bountiful c. very zealous in his superstition appointing Pensions to the sayers of Mahomet's Law by heart in the Temple and competent maintenance for all Judges that for reward they should not pervert justice living and dying a mortal enemy to the Christians The Life of Amurath I. third King of Turks and the great augmenter of their Kingdom AMurath the younger Son succeeded 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 having wondrous 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 zeal more than any for Mahometan Religion Purposing at first to invade Thracia he 〈◊〉 Army from all parts to Prusa But the Mahometan Asian Princes combining he must turn his forces upon them prevailing and returning with victory and next year prosecuting his intended war in Europe wherefore with a strong Army he passed to Callipolis with Lala Schahin his Tutor whose counsel he most followed in weighty affairs Then Benutum Castle was yielded him on composition and the Town Tzurulus he won after sharp encounter with the Christians taking divers small places in Romania now called Rumilia in Thracia razing some and garrisoning others Then also the valiant ones Chasi Ilbeg and Eurenoses took some Forts on the River 〈◊〉 much troubling the Inhabitants there abouts wherefore Didymothicum's Caprain gathered his Souldiers to intercept Chasi Ilbeg losing most and himself taken for whose ransome c. the Citizens yielded Didymothicum Amurath soon after sent Lala Schahin to besiege Hadrianople the Christians encountred him on the way many being lost on both sides but in the end worsted they retired to the City Schahin sending news of this victory to Amurath with some Christians heads Chasis and Eurenoses going before himself followed to the siege which the Governour hearing fled by night to Aenus The 〈◊〉 seeing this yielded to Amurath in 1362. Some Turks Histories otherwise report especially the taking these 2 Cities which because `t is not disagreeing from their subtil dealing I thought good to set down Amurath at first of his reign concluded a Peace with the 〈◊〉 Christians during which the Governour of 〈◊〉 entertained all workmen more to fortifie his City Amurath caused 200 Iusty men to come our of Asia to offer him their service who gladly used their help some of the wiser wishing him to beware of those Asians But he through the peace and they no Souldiers had the lesse care yet lodging them without the walls every night 〈◊〉 they entertained requested 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to go with 30 good Souldiers 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 and to espy any opportunity to surprize 〈◊〉 City 〈◊〉 coming accordingly they found 〈◊〉 carlying stones mortar c. shewlng diligence he vigilantly awaiting for a surprizal Night come and the 〈◊〉 workmen going into the Suburbs to lodge Chasis secretly 〈◊〉 shewed Amurath how one gate of the City might suddenly be taken if he would place a 〈◊〉 ambush near to joyn with the labourers upon occasion which resolved on and Chasis returning instructed what workmen he thought meet what was to be done Next day at dinner time these 〈◊〉 at fained words and blows among themselves suddenly running to the gate appointed and laying hands on the Warders weapons as to defend themselves and so 〈◊〉 them 〈◊〉 opening the gate 〈◊〉 in the Turks laying in wait who presently took the City and put the chiefest to the sword 〈◊〉 also was in this peace by sudden assault of Eurenoses by night taken The Christians charging 〈◊〉 with this breach of League turned it to his Captains threatning them severely feigning himself 〈◊〉 in a colour all the while 〈◊〉 but he refused to restore these Cities saying 'T was against Mahomet's Law to deliver that wherein his Religion had been openly taught Whereupon fresh wars very tedious to both arose Amurath therefore made peace with them of Selybria Constantinople and Hadrianople yet this he desiring heartily to take causing Chasis Ilibeg as discontented to flee from his Master to Hadrianople from whence issuing out with other dissembling fugitives he often skirmished with the Turks and growing into the Governours favour thereby Many others also under like 〈◊〉 resorting to him he wrote secretly to Amurath If he would send him succour against the time he would deliver a gate unto him Chasis with ten followers at day dawn as going to hunt came to the gate which opened they furiously slew the Warders and aided by the other fugitives possessed the gate till Amurath's near ambush hearing the alarm speedily came and entred where was a cruel fight all day but the Turks
〈◊〉 you though but few than if you were many Now they are come with innumerable Legions yet more than the Janizaries are no good Souldiers among them the rest as enforced serve them for fear c. We are not to fight for other mens houses and altars but for our own c. That God is able with his little finger if he will to destroy all the Turks in the World but he first makes proof of our courage for defence of his name that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 he may 〈◊〉 it with his own fight 〈◊〉 They fight for their Prophet Authour of all 〈◊〉 for spoyle and 〈◊〉 destruction of 〈◊〉 other mens Kingdomes enlarging their 〈◊〉 worldly 〈◊〉 But we contrary wise c. A little refreshing your selves with a repast as you stand on the 〈◊〉 given thrice calling aloud upon the name of Christ sight as 〈◊〉 you can with like 〈◊〉 that He fought for your redemption c. for Christ will be 〈◊〉 present with us who believe me and so hope will not onely deliver us this day out of the Turks hands but load us with their 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and so bring all home in safety with much joy and 〈◊〉 The Bassa encouraged his 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 former Victories not to degenerate from their Ancestours and themselves to whom 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 interpreter had foretold the Empire of the whole World c. He filled them with hope of great spoyle promising to the Valiant whole Villages c. with great 〈◊〉 as they should deserve He assured them of Victory their enemies being weak and themselves a great number if they would fight it out like men That 〈◊〉 overcome Huniades whom he had found the most Valiant and skillful Christian Captaine nothing should 〈◊〉 their farther conquests willing them above all 〈◊〉 to seek 〈◊〉 him promising to him 〈◊〉 killed him 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 c. Both Armies being come within 〈◊〉 of a 〈◊〉 the signal given the battle began 〈◊〉 seeing the enemie cast his first battle in forme of a wedge the 〈◊〉 to divide them they in forme of a pare of Sheers were ready 〈◊〉 them where both sides encountred with a 〈◊〉 and outcry never more terrible They fought a while in the light horsemens wings with like hope but the Turks better acquainted with that kind of 〈◊〉 better appointed exceeding in number enforced the Christians to retire to the men 〈◊〉 force where was made a most terrible fight most of the Turks light horsemen were slain for they could not abide the men at armes force though but 〈◊〉 in Comparison of them so that the Turks in both wings began to faint But the battle yet wavering the Janizaries with men at armes and troopes of light 〈◊〉 compassed the Christian men at armes standing in the main battle where the old Janizaries with 〈◊〉 cut their horses legs asunder many of whom falling were made shorter by the head likewise the Janizaries were themselves trodden under foot Whereupon blood ran like Rivers most of the Janizaries being 〈◊〉 and many Christians also The Bassa yet in hope the Hungarians would faint with long fight came on with the 〈◊〉 ward and a number 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Souldiers left for guarding his baggage It was after four 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 He commanded them to compasse in the Hnngarians c. vainly boasting it would be the last battle ever they would fight Haniadis suffering part of his men to be 〈◊〉 caused the 〈◊〉 to thrust in with armed Carts c. behind the enemies and afterwards with fresh supplies renewed the batele The fight was great and though the Turks slaughter great 〈◊〉 not much feeling 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 multitude still 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 desperately till the 〈◊〉 wing seeing themselves compassed with waggons and thence 〈◊〉 with shot c. fearing the danger 〈◊〉 shrunk from the fight The Hungarians now more 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 their fainting enemies 〈◊〉 encouraging them in the waggons to approach them nearer the 〈◊〉 hardly 〈◊〉 and fighting disorderly first retired presently after fled They that were 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in c. all perished The lest wing discouraged 〈◊〉 likewise the Hungarians fiercely following The 〈◊〉 strucken with dispaire fled with some Janizaries kept for his persons safeguard whom so many 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 followed the rest flying 〈◊〉 woods and 〈◊〉 either perished with hunger or 〈◊〉 by the 〈◊〉 flain 〈◊〉 half the Army 〈◊〉 over 〈◊〉 Huniades content with so great a Victory 〈◊〉 them not far but with their Campes spoyle greatly enriched himself and his Souldiers 5000 〈◊〉 taken prisoners and 〈◊〉 Ensignes Huniades caused prayers with thanksgiving to be made for 3 dayes in 〈◊〉 those 3 〈◊〉 and hanged up at Vascape where the battle was fought certain Turks Ensignes Trophies of Victory It was the 〈◊〉 ever any Christian 〈◊〉 obtained against the Turk Many Inhabitants 〈◊〉 their 〈◊〉 for a season for fear of infection by the Turks 〈◊〉 wherewith the 〈◊〉 covered Then 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in triumph he presented 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 c. which he 〈◊〉 receiving and highly commending his Valour its 〈◊〉 shortly 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Amurath a 〈◊〉 before 〈◊〉 a proud Embassage to 〈◊〉 offering peace on 〈◊〉 him 〈◊〉 or paying him a yearly 〈◊〉 the King upon the 〈◊〉 report of the Victory 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to the issue of matters he would shortly in person come and give him further answer And for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 power or desire of revenge 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 of his Kingdome with 〈◊〉 the Popes Legate sent 〈◊〉 thither to stir up the Hungarians against the Turks he propounded the danger 〈◊〉 and how it might be averted 〈◊〉 requested by the King to 〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉 first spake Since the Turkish 〈◊〉 began to rage in Europe no newes was more welcome to the 〈◊〉 Bishop c. than Uladistaus his being chosen King of Hungary for a fitter could not the Hungarians any where have found c. The Kingdom is by your force and valour my mediation and the Queen's death well pacified but yet the Turkish Tyranny c. is to be repressed c. If so great an Army was vanquished by one of thy Captain 's power but small what is to be hoped of thee most mighty King if thou shalt lead thine Armies in person under the Protection of Christ Jesus The eyes of all Christian Princes are upon thee c. And albeit the Common cause of Religion require thee to be a revenger c. yet Hungary and Poland's necessity no lesse enforce it of which one is miserably vexed with the Turke out of Servia and Dalmatia the other out of Moldavia and Valachia You lack not worthy Captaines money which shall be brought unto you from all part not lusty and couragious Souldiers not policy not for tune c. you want nothing but will It 's an Expedition necessary religious profitable and honourable wherein are all ample rewards in this life and the life to come Wherefore I beseech you by the faith of Christ by love of your Children health of your Kingdome c. with valiant
could content his mind or revive his Spirits so that oppressed with melanchollyconceits he became sick for griefe Whereupon by some's Counsell he sent to Scanderbeg offering him peace for 10000 duckats yearly tribute thinking hereby well to save his honour which being utterly refused greatly increased his sicknesse Scanderbeg to grieve him the more c daily assailed the Campe which he often suspected by alarums and tumults languishing with the griefe thereof Feeling he could not longer live g ievously complained that all his former life was so blemished who repressing the Hungarians fury and almost nullifying the Grecians pride and name was enforced to give up the Ghost under the Walls of an obscure Castle and in sight of his contemptible enemie Then he gave his Son Mahomet many grave advertisements commending him to the faithfullnesse of his Bassaes weaknesse and teares oft upon sight of him interrupting his speech Yet forcing himself he warned him of what now most grieved him That his example be a warning to him not to contemne his never so weak enemy c whereby he had purchased this calamity and for ever blemished the honour of the Othoman Kings c. That this Trait or should then have been suppressed when first he recovered his wicked Kingdome c. Ali Bassa nor the other Generalls should not have been sent against him c That they entered into 〈◊〉 160000 strong c but now how many tents stand empty c. That the destinies had vowed his Spirits to Epirus as to him fatall But why did he impute these impediments and chances to himself for this mischievous seed first began when the Hungarians with others rose up against him So whilst he could not take order for all important affaires at once this enemy grew great That fortune never deceived his endeavours more than in this Therefore he charged his Son that for so great and stately a patrimony as he should receive not to leave his death unrevenged of this enemy Shortly after becomming speechlesse c he breathed out his Ghost to the Christians great joy in Autumne 1450 85 years old as most write reigning 28 or as some 30 about 5 months after Croia's siege Thus 〈◊〉 great Amurath dead almost in despaire Who had fought greater battels who gained greater Victories or obtained more glorious Triumphs than he c. But oh how far was he now changed from the man he then was how far did his last speeches differ from his forepassed life full of base passionate complaints beseeming some vile 〈◊〉 overtaken with despaire and yet afraide to die He lyeth now dead a gastly stinking Carcale c and of such infinite riches such stately honours c his fraile body enjoyeth nothing The Turks say he died miraculously forewarned of his death at Hadrianople others that he died in Asia with an Apoplexie surfeiting of immoderate Wine But Marinus Barlesius who lived in his time in Scodra fast by Epirus sets it downe as aforesaid Mahomet fearing some innovation at home presently returning to Hadrianople buryed his body with great solemnity on the West of Prusa lying in a Chappel without a roofe his grave not differing from the common Turks which they say he so commanded that Gods blessing might come to him by the Sun and Moones shining and raine and dewes falling on his grave He mightily enlarged the Turkish Kingdome for the better establishing whereof in his owne house he in the beginning of his reigne by manifold favours began to bind to himself men of forreigne Coùntryes his Servants And whereas the Othoman Kings had mostly or altogether raised their Janizaries and other Court Souldiers of Christians Children taken in War he seeing how serviceable they were plotted how to make an Armie of such his own Creatures c wherefore taking from the Christians every 5th Child he placed the fairest and aptest in his own Seraglio the rest in other like places where being instructed in Mahometane Religion then in all seats of Armes of these he made Horsemen c to guard his person naming he better sort Spahi-Oglani 〈◊〉 is his Sons the Knights Of these he made Bassaes Generals and Governours with all great Officers dispersing the rest and greatest part into every Country of his Dominion in Asia to be brought up in hardnesse and painefull labour out of whom he choosing the most lusty and able they were taught to handle all manner of weapons added to the other upon occasion calling them his Sons binding them of all sorts so fast to him by continual pay c. that he might account so many Sons as Souldiers A great policy from a deep judgment to weaken the Christians by taking their Children of greatest hope and to keep in awe his own natural Subjects also Amurath's successours keeping and increasing this Custome have not only kept the Empire in their Family but so maintained their State that they are feared obeyed and honoured as Gods c. Hence it comes to passe that the better of them called Turks but indeed Christians children desire to be called Musulmans that is right believers holding it a reproach to be called Turks For they knowing there is not one natural Turk among all in authority c. but he is borne a Christian either of father or Grandfather avouch those only to be Turks living in Natolia all Merchants Mechanicks or poor labourers c. Yea many of the Grand-Signiors had Christian Mothers accounting it in the greatest part of their Nobility 〈◊〉 great King was wonderfully beloved and noless after death lamented more faithful of his word than any before or after him melancholick rather politick than valiant yet both a great dissembler painful in travel exceeding wayward and testy many imputing it to his age He had 6 Sons Achmetes Aladin Mahomet Hasan or Chasan Urchan and Achmetes the younger three of whom died before him The Life of Mahomet II. 7th King and first Emperour of Turks for his many victories surnamed the Great IT was thought that Mahomet who being about 21 years old succeeded his Father in 1450 and the supposed Son of the Prince of Servia's Daughter a Christian would have embraced the Christian Religion but embracing in shew the Mahometan abhorring the Christian he greatly reckoned not of either and worshipping no God but Fortune he derided such as thought God had any care of worldly men so that he kept no League Promise or Oath longer than stood with his profit and pleasure The Bassaes and others of great Authority to whom Amurath's Government was never grievous inwardly lamented his death doubting Mahomet's fierce nature c. But the Court gallants in hope of preferment were glad to see him on his Fathers Seat and the vulgar exceedingly rejoyced in him Then also the Janizaries as their 〈◊〉 is spoyling the Christians and Jews easily obtained pardon whereupon he was by them and other Court Souldiers triumphantly saluted King which approbation is a greater assurance of their Kingdom than to be
they digging up his bones those who could get never so little thereof set it in silver or gold hanging it about their necks or otherwise wearing thinking thereby to have such good hap as Scanderbeg had while he lived The Hungarians and Venetians most time of these Wars busied the Turks for Matthias entring Bosna overthrew the Turks frontier forts and driving them out till he came to Jaziga or Jaitze the chiefe City at length took it wresting all that Kingdome out of their hands whereupon Mahomet hardly besieging Jaziga it was valiantly defended till Mathias comming to its reliefe so troubled the Turks Campe on one sice and the besieged with salleys on the other that the Turk stealing away with his Armie by night into Servia left his Tents and great Ordinance for haste which the Turks Histories report he cast into the River whom Mathias following into Servia and taking part thereof united it with 〈◊〉 to Hungarie After which Mahomet had no great stomack to provoke the Hungarians Mathias being now as dreadfull to the Turks as the name of his Father Huniades Then also the Venetians scouring the Seas did great harme to the Turk by landing in severall places amongst others Nicholas Canalis succeeding Lauretanus comming into Salonichi Bay burnt divers Townes and Villages by the Sea side Then returning into Pelopouesus he in despire of all the Turks could do fortified 〈◊〉 where leaving a strong Garrison he returned into Euboea and soon after sayling along Macedonia and Thracia surprized Aenus upon the River Meritza's mouth taking its spoile and carrying away 2000 Captives into Euboea Then likewise the Venetians ayding Duchaine against his Brother Alexius striving for Zadrima's principality greatly overthrew the Turks neer Drine River in Epirus who came in Alexius quarrel Mahomet perceiving that Euboea Island now Nigropont 10 miles long abounded with Corne Wine Oyle Fruit and Wood for shipping and separated from 〈◊〉 with à narrow strait of the Sea was for its commodious 〈◊〉 and strength the chiefe place whence the Venetians wrought him all these wrongs resolved to imploy all his forces both by Sea and land for the gayning thereof wherefore assembling a mighty A rmie and sending Mahomet Bassa with 300 Galleys and other small Vessels well furnished into Euboea himself marched through Achaiae till he came over against Chalcis The Venetian Admirall finding himself too weak for the Turks Fleet returned towards Seiros But the Bassa comming out of Hellspontus Straits came without let to Euboea where taking and razing Stora and Basilicon he went directly to Chaleis of whose smaller Vessels Mahomet making a bridge over the Strait passed to the City Chaleis Rich Populous and very strong besieging it round by Sea and land where with his battery faire breaches by the chiefe Cannoneers giving the Turks by signes knowledge where the Walls were weakest being the sooner made the Traitour it being perceived was executed Yet what he beate downe by day they repaired by night Thus for 30 dayes the City being defended to the Turks great losse in their sharpe assaults the Venetian Admirall comming in view of the City shewed as if he would give the Turks battell Wherefore Mahomet it s reported was about to goe over into the maine with his Armie lest the Venetians breaking the bridge should have shut him in which its thought he might have done if he would have adventured as his Capraines earnestly requested But comming to an Anchor he moved not which the Turk perceiving brought on his men to the Wal's breaches promising them the Cityes spoile c whereof himself said he would be aneye witnesse Whereupon the Turks furiously assaulting the defendants made such slaughter of them that the ditches were filled and the breaches made up with their dead bodys but Mahomet still sending in fresh supplies this dreadfull assault was maintained a day and a night without ceasing who twice winning the breaches were beaten out againe At length the defendants being most flain or wounded and the rest wearied retiring into the Market place sold their lives deare to the Turks among whom were found many dead women who chose rather to die in defence than to fall into the Turks hands Mahomet although Lord of the City yet losing 40000 in the siege put all men there alive to most cruel death especially the Italians with exquisite torments Ericus the Governour fleeing with a few into the Castle on promise of safe departure delivered up the same but having them in his power the Tyrant cruelly murthered them Erigus's Daughter being presented to Mahomet as the mirrour of beauty when he could not prevaile on her by flattering words c to consent unto his desire threatned her with death torture c But the constant Virgin resolutely denying he commanded her forthwith to be slaine And the horrible cruelty committed by the Turks at the taking of Chalcis passeth credit the rest of the Island without resistance yielding to the Turkish slavety This happened in 1470. Caualis the City being lost fearing to be set on by the Turks dishonourably returning to Venice he was by the Senate imprisoned and afterwards with his family banished to Utinum Mahomet and his Fleet soone after returning the Venetians attempted a sudden surprize of Chalois but the Garrison there left was so strong that retiring to their Galleys they forsook Euboea Petrus Mocenicus being chofen Admirall instead of Canalis the Venetians solicited Pope Sixtus the 4th the King of Naples the King of Cyprus and the Master of Rhodes to joyne with them against the common Enemy which they promised They sent also Zenus to Usun Cassanes King of Persia to incite him against the Turk who next year taking up Arms had with him mortall Warres who not ignorant of these things and knowing how he had offended Christian Princes by his cruelty at Chalsis lay a while still at Constantinople as if desirous to live in peace whereby as he wisht nought worth speaking was that year attempted against him who also requested the Persian King if it were onely but for community of the Mahometan Religion to withdraw taking up Arms in the Christians Cause though otherwise he regarded not Religion but Zenus so wrought wi h Usun Cassanes that he told the Turks Ambassadors he neither could nor would longer endure the Turkish Kings injury and that having made a league with the Christian Princes he would to his power perform whatever he had promised so dismissing them discontented as were the Persian Ambassadors before from the Turkish Court touching the Emperour of Trapezond The yeare following 1472. Mocenicus arriving in Lesbos did great harm and passing into the lesser Asia sore spoiled about Pergamus Then landing again at Cnidus he took a great booty so returning having exceedingly hurt all along the Sea-Coast laden with spoil to Peloponesus on whose Coast he met with Richiensis with seventeen Gallies from King Ferdinand of Naples who joyning their Fleets in one landed at Modon in Peloponesus
upon the sharp stakes The women and children also throwing down stones tyles c. from house-tops and windows upon them they as they could spie them fetching them off with their Harquebusies or breaking into their Houses and fighting with diverse successe but most of the Aegyptians according to either fortune assailed sometimes the Turks sometimes the Mamalukes Many cruel encounters were at once in divers places for crossing from street to street they both happened on new enemies and the Victors pursuing a-front were by others following them slain downright The lanes and streets so flowed with blood of the slain heaps that the dust at first very thick was laid as with a plentiful showr the ayr was darkned with smoak and arrows and through clamour noise of Armour and Artillary the earth seemed to tremble and the houses to fall down It thus continued two whole dayes and nights without ceasing yet the Mamalukes few and through such labour and watching giving ground by degrees retired further into the City The third day beset with the greatest danger they so resolutely fought that the Turks retiring a great way left some Field-pieces behind them whereat Selimus despairing commanded to fire the Houses especially for that Jonuses Bassa was in his sight dangerously wounded by a stone out of a window The Houses burning the Egyptians cryed for mercy the Turks fighting but faintly expecting a retreat but they had sudden news that Mustapha on their side had forced the enemies to retire and flee for he being by some directed to a broad street where the Mamalukes had left their Horses ready that on the worst chance they might retire and so haste to their appointed Refuges took them all away having put to flight the weak Garrison of most part Horsboies and Muletors This accident daunted the Mamalukes who now hardly beset and in their own judgement overcome fled most with Tomombeius to Nile where being transported in boats they fled into the Country Sigesta others hiding in Egyptians Houses and loathsome corners of the City 1500. of the better sort fled into Mahomet's Temple long defending themselves to yield on honourable conditions at last through thirst wearinesse and wounds with the fury of the Ordnance they yielded to their pleasure part being slain in the porch the rest sent down the River to Alexandria to be afterwards there murdered Selimus now sent part of his Army to quench the raging fire proclaiming thorow the City that all Mamalukes yielding themselves within twelve hours should have mercy otherwise no hope of life proposing Rewards to the Egyptians revealing them but concealing them to impail them selling their wives and children and to burn their Houses whereupon many Mamalukes came forth and being cast into Irons were soon after perfidiously murdered it being given out they sought to escape and many Egyptians not breaking their faith with the Mamalukes their neighbours appeaching them most constantly died for their friends The insolent Turks ransacked all the City drawing out and 〈◊〉 the hidden Mamalukes riffling the Houses of friends and foes and some in the same Houses raged at once with covetousnesse cruelty and lust as every one was inclined That day that Selimus took Caire Gazelles lately gone to Thebais to assemble the Arabians and new supplies came thither but finding all lost c. he came to Selimus upon faith given for 〈◊〉 of him and his followers three Arabian Captains and a number of good 〈◊〉 in the midst of his chief Captains boldly speaking to him If fortune had not envied our safety thou shouldst not now have had matter most noble Selimus to excel others in worthinesse of mind Whilst we were in Arms our State standing whole we as proudly presuming little 〈◊〉 of thee or the Turks name yea we hated thee as enemies but having to the utmost proved thy force admiring thy prowesse and victories not given without the providence of the immortal God we 〈◊〉 come to thee to better our 〈◊〉 fortune that thou by sparing thy vanquished and yielding enemies mayest extend thy Fame beyond the 〈◊〉 of thy immortal glory We faithfully served Tomombeius while he held even but the name of a King c. But he being driven out wandring the Desarts uncertain whether to live or not we come to thee rather as forsaken than forsaking their Prince to shew thee our loyalty and valour if by thy goodnesse we may serve under thy worthy conduct Selimus knowing Gazelles his vertue and valour and desiring a league with the Arabians or rather Alarbes most to be feared courteously received them with honourable pensions and to sorget their old 〈◊〉 looking for greater things of him Not long after the Moors and Arabians with some 〈◊〉 fled to Achasia making incursions about Caire often cutting off 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sorrage he sending 〈◊〉 to represse them he quickly winning and lacking Achasia slaying most of those Adventurers returned in lesse time then was expected Tomombeius the while began to make head again in Sigesta for he sent for a strong company of Mamalukes from Alexandria many great Arabians and Moors of that Country promising him their help Besides many Egyptians of Caire who became a prey promised if he would come thither by night they would raise a tumult that should easily work the Turks confusion since they could no longer endure their indignities sending him word that the Turks were now but a contemptible number most being slain in the Battel and most of the rest very weak with wounds and sicknesse wherefore hope began to revive Tomombeius his invincible heart above his miserable state One 〈◊〉 an Egyptian the greatest man in all Sigesta whether to avert the War out of his Country or to gain Selimus his good liking came and certified him of Tomombeius his strength and of the Citizens practises Who keeping strong watch and ward in all places secured the suspended Citizens in the Castle then also in his possession placing along Nilus armed boats to impeach Tomombeius his passage at the further banks yet considering Tomombeius was still preparing greater forces in those vast and unknown Countries and fearing the doubtful faith of the numerous Citizens his power being so small the Mamalukes also levying supplies in divers Countries whither they fled and the fleet in the Arabian gulf against the Portugals wherein were 3000. Mamalukes with store of brasse Ordnance being daily expected at Suezzia chiefly fearing if the Bassa left at Taurus should not be able to withstand the Persian King he should be excluded both out of lesser Asia and Syria before supplies could arrive from Constantinople to Alexandria He sent some the reverendest of his Religion with some honourable Egyptians Embassadors to Tomombeius bountifully promising him on the faith of a Prince if he would come in and submit he should on reasonable conditions repossesse his Kingdom never by force to regain but otherwise when the matter was again tryed by Battel he should never find any regard of his Princely State
sounds made in the Earth and so met withall by countermines that most were frustrated and 8000 Turks slain or buried quick therein Solyman that they might not so perfectly discover his Mines appointed his Army divided into four parts in order to give the Defendants a continual Alarum whereby his works went forward with all possible speed and one Mine was suddenly blown up shaking and overthrowing much of the wall nigh the Gate leading towards Carinthia whereat the Turks greatly shouting pressed in on all sides by the ruines of the wall charging the Defendants with shot and Arrowes very thick who resolutely standing in the face of the breach so received them with shot and push of Pike that they began to retire whereupon Solyman sent in new supplies but these also receiving a great overthrow retired without any sign of retreat The ground nigh the Town lay covered and the ditches filled with dead Turks Ere long the wall was blown up in two other places by which breach not very great they sought so desperately to enter that they thrust one another upon the point of their enemies Weapons who slew them without number being mostly without Armour enforcing them again disorderly to retire filling the breaches with their dead Carkasses Three dayes after another piece of the Wall not farre from the first breach was so suddenly overthrown that for eagerness on both sides throwing away Guns and Bowes they came to handy-blowes in midst of the breach the Turks with Scimitars the Germanes with long Swords as their Captains encouraged them with chearful perswasions so the Turks Captains forced them forward with words and wounds t was thought a more fierce and deadly fight was never seen for many Turks Horsemen thrust in on foot amongst the rest and fought most desperately At the last after three houres furious fight the Turks seeing no hope retired to their Camp many of their best Captains and Souldiers lying dead by heaps It were tedious to recount every assault in particular yet Lord Rogendorff is not to be forgotten who one day sallyed out with some Troops upon many stragling Turks with such violence that overthrowing them at first on-set and chasing them scarce 140 of 5300 escaped after which his name was terrible to the Turks Solyman exceedingly grieved with his vain assaults purposed to prove the utmost of his forces and calling his chief Commanders at first sharply reproved them as of no courage who had turned their backs in the breaches half won wherefore he counting it a great dishonour to forsake the siege they should resolve next day as Conquerors to take the City or as cowards to end their dayes Next day Octob. 15. they with all their sorces assailed the City thrusting their men by heaps into the breaches as if they would with very multitude have overborn the Christians being at handy blowes the fight was most terrible the Christians still repulsing them whose Ordnance also fitly mounted made such slaughter among the thickest of them that they shrunk back and chose rather to be slain of their own Captains as some were then to be rent in sunder by the murthering shot so that the Captains seeing no remedy retired leaving many thousands dead in the Town-ditches Next day Solyman despairing and fearing Ferdinand and the Count Palatine their coming winter also coming fast on determined to raise the siege to colour which dishonour he sent certain chief prisoners richly appareld and full of money to tell them of the City he came not intending to besiege or take Vienna but to revenge wrongs done him by Ferdinand and to fight with him for the Hungarian Kingdom whom since he could not draw to Vienna he would remove to seek for him wherefore they should yield promising not to enter their City but to receive them all into his protection reserving them their lives goods and freedom which they scornfully refused as proceeding of desperation Next night he slew all the prisoners in his Army which pittiful outcries they heard into the City not knowing what it should be till after his departure they found men women and Children wallowed in their own blood Solyman causing Abraham to shew himself in order as if to give a fresh assault rose himself the while with the rest returningin such 〈◊〉 that he neither garrison'd or demanded tribute of any places taken Abraham following him a dayes journey behind he arrived at Buda in five dayes 32 Germane miles from Vienna He is reported to have lost 80000 men his Lieutenant of Asia being one and many forward Captains Few or none of name of the defendants were lost but of the country above 60000 were thought to be slain and carried captive all about Vienna being miserably spoiled Solyman restored Buda to King John who by writing acknowledged himself his Vassall to whom he joyned Grittus as his legat to help him in providing for that Kingdoms defence While Solyman lay at Buda he was one day earnest with King John to receive the Bishop of Strigonium and Perenus who had taken part with Ferdinand into his former favour who shewing himself unwilling to be intreated said their mutable mindes would never contain themselves within the bounds of loyalty but find occasion to commit some fowler treason whereto Solyman straining his voice a little as somewhat moved replyed Can any thing happen better to thee in this life than for thy enemies by thy kindness to be accounted by all ungrateful c. when as in thee the commendation of a courteous Prince shall for ever remain So fearing the cold of approaching Winter he set forward to Belgrade thence to Constantinople All this while Charls the Emperour lately reconciled to Pope Clement 7th besieged Florence by Davalus labouring to bring them again under the subjection of the Medici's whereof Clement was chief which with much adoe he bringing to passe invested Alexander the Popes Nephew in 〈◊〉 Dukedom And giving him his 〈◊〉 Daughter in marriage forgetting his Brother Ferdinand the 〈◊〉 and Austria 〈◊〉 with Vienna endangered Next year 1520 Solyman with great solemnity circumcised his Sons Mustapha Mahomet and Selimus at Constantinople And hardly digesting the dishonour at Vienna and solicited by John against Ferdinand who with greater stomack still 〈◊〉 him but mostly from an exceeding unsatiable desire of enlarging his Empire he raised an Army purposing chiefly to conquer all Ferdinands Dominions and so all Germany prefining to himself but three years for accomplishment It was reported that he would oft say what belonged to the Roman Empire was of right his he being possessed of the Seat and Scepter of Constantine the great wherefore when he mentioned Charls he would as in disdain terme him King of Spain but never Emperour Christian Princes discord and great troubles then in Germany about Religion not a little encouraged him to his expedition Ferdinand sent him three Embassadors whereof Noble Negarola skilled in divers Languages was chief with rich presents and reasonable offers for
Merchants Habit After which he by Hariadenus troubled the Mediterranean and all his Neighbors with his Galleys and himself by Land so prevailing that men of service resorted to him as the chief man in those parts He drave the Spaniards out of Bugea famous for great Trade and once for a Mahometan School there losing his righthand he obtained many Victories with an Iron hand for he overthrew a Spanish Army under Diega nigh Algiers and soon after Moncada landing from Italy with the old Spanish Souldiers in his Country he forced him to Sea again where they by Shipwrack or driving a shoare were slain or taken and thrust into his Galleys at last and having overcome the King of Tremissa expulsing him Charls the Emperour stirred up the Christians and Numid ans to ayd that his consederate so that Horruccius coming to take Ora and Portus he was first repulsed then quite overthrown where most of his Army being slain or taken he fled with a few over the Sandy Desarts scattering much Gold to stay his enemies hasty pursuit who notwithstanding overtook him and struck off his Head which was sent into Spain and carried on a Lance thorow the Sea Towns to the great joy of the people formerly hurt by him Hariadenus not inferior to his Brother by the Souldiers general consent took the Kingdom and began to aspire to the Empire of all that part of Africk wherefore he held peace with some and Warres with others as best served his purpose robbing and spoiling the Coasts of Spain Sardinia and the Baleares Islands becoming famous and fearful to his enemies slaying Hamet of the Numidians and chasing away Benchades and Amida two great Princes overcoming Moncada the Spaniard who sore wounded hardly escaped the flight losing divers Gallies he also at Sea slew Pertundus admiral of Spain with his Son taking seven of his Gallies sending his Ensign with part of the spoil a present to Solyman but was much more famous with the Turks when he had repulsed Auria from Cercenna and taken two great Genoway Ships coming to him with men and Ammunition filling Genua with sorrow Solyman grieved with his losse in Peloponesus by Auria chiefly by Abraham chief Bassae's Counsel sent him Sinas an Embassador to Algiers offering him the greatest honours and to make him his Admiral if he would forthwith repair to Constantinople Barbarussa was exceeding glad hereof conceiving no small hope of the Monarchy of Africk if coming to Solyman he might shew him the State of Africk and the Christians power with their continual discord Wherefore committing his Son and Kingdom to two of his faithful kinsmen's Government with 40 of his Warlike Galley's he set forward with Sinas taking and burning by the way after a cruel fight a Fleet of Genowayes bound for Sicily then landing by night in the Isle Elba he surprized Chium a rich City and carrying away their wealth and them into Captivity he arrived at Constantinople in 1533. joyfully received if but for the boyes and maidens richly apparelled Eunuchs Lions Leopards of Lybia which he gave Solyman but after some dayes discourse with the Bassaes of Africks affairs he envy soon over-taking him was seldomer sent for and hardly admitted into their company though offering himself many saying the Ottoman Kings used not to prefer Pirates to the Admiralship and that there wanted not nor ever would men 〈◊〉 and valiant in the Turks Court c. Whereas he against all Right had intruded into another's Kingdom and persecuted Mahometane Princes being of no Religion himself c. Abraham was then gone into Comagena After long suit Solyman answered Barbarussa by 2 Bassaes that all concerning him should be referred to Abraham chief-Bassa by whose counsel he was chiefly sent for wherefore he must repair to him in Syria Though this tended to his disgrace yet in hope by sufferance to obtain another Kingdom he posted thorow Asia the less by land coming over Mount Amanus covered with Winters deep snow to Aleppo where Abraham honourably receiving and largely hearing him wrote to Solyman wishing him to place him as a 4th Bassa of his Council besides his deeming him the most fit to command his Power at Sea who returning with this effectual commendation the 〈◊〉 of the Court was suddenly changed upon him Who was now in all mens mouths but Barbarussa He had brought with him Roscetes Muleasses King of Tunisselder brother whom he wrongfully exiling he had lived at Algiers but now came to Barbarussa to crave aid of Solyman Him he set out to the Bassaes as a most fit instrument for subduing the Kingdom of Tunis as more affected by the people than Muleasses the Usurper After long consultation with the Bassaes about Africks invasion he admitted to Solyman's presence 〈◊〉 him in a Speech from divers motives to that War and saying by the way as he returned he would so use the matter that the Christians also should have good cause to bewail their calamities and if he happened to meet with Auria he should have smal cause to rejoyce of the mischief he had done for him alone he challenged to persecure as his peculiar enemy both for the harms received and for the despight he had at his Fame who taken out of the way the Seas should be open only to Solyman's Fleet And believe me said he he that can command the Seas shall easily subdue the Kingdoms by Land Solyman using well to consider and afterwards to resolve commending Barbarussa's forwardness then brake up the Council Ere long a Decree was made that he should be joyned a 4th Bassa in Council and made great Admiral c. Which proclaimed Solyman himself delivered him a Scepter and Sword willing him by worthy deeds to perform his promise after which Ajax and Cassimes the Bassae's brought him with exceeding pomp to the Navy all Tokens of his new Honour being carried before him and having towards the Sea-ward 800000 Duckats out of the Treasury with 800 janizaries Not long after he departed out of Hellespont with 80 Galleys and certain Galliors towards Italy leaving Amurathes with 12 Galleys to transport Solyman and his Army over into Asia for Persia which done he over-took him at Methone who suddenly passing the strait betwixt Italy and Sicily much frighted both Countries but passing by the Bay of Hippona he set upon the Town of Lucidius of old Tempsa which though standing on a Rock with reasonable walls it was taken by the Turks violence with the more hurt to the Inhabitants because the Mayor had locked up the gates on the other side to keep them from flight Thence with spoil and many prisoners he went to Citharium where he heard a Fleet was building this forsaken Town for fear he ransacked and burnt firing 7 Galleys unfinished but being come in sight of Naples all along the coast were so terrified that 't was thought if he had landed and gone to Naples it would have been abandoned but coming to Procita he took and rifled
Charls's great good when the Venetians spent with long and chargable wars should be stripped by force or wrung by necessity from Lands and Territories Solyman grieved determined to besiege Newcastle again by sea and land caufing also Nauplium and Epidaurus in Peloponnesus Venetian Cities to be besieged yet he took singular pleasure that Barbarussa the worst fu nished had driven the great Christian Fleet out of the sea Wherefore at Spring 1539. Barbarussa repaired his Fleet notably furnishing it and manning his Galleys most with select Souldiers and Summer well come on He came to Rizonicus Bay when Ulames Governour of Bosna appeared with his Forces on the Mountains as he had in charge Barbarussa sent before him Dragut and Corsetus with 30 Galliots who landing their men at Castronovum or Newcastle were encountred by Sarmentus and forced to their Galliots many being slain and taken After which came Barbarussa with 60 Galleys and 3 tall ships which carried all warlike provisions spending 3 dayes in landing his Ordnance and casting up Trenches done but by night for the Town-shot which slew in that space about 1000 Turks Agis Hariadexus as it were a King at Taiorea in Africa being one to Barbarussas's great grief who gave a fourth part of his 54 battering pieces to Ulames on the North side himself bat ering the East side in 3 places and Salec from sea battering another part Sarmentus thus assayled did what he could to repair the breaches the Turks the while taking a Tower whence having displayed their Ensignes they sore troubled the Spaniards Ulames also had made a breach and was ready to enter Whereupon Sarmentus commanded the hurt Souldiers to get into the Castle below and the rest with him to take the Market-place where the Turks breaking in made a most bloudy fight the Spaniards being almost every man slain Sarmentus wounded in the face with 3 arrows and wearied seeing Fria a Captain ready to flee sharply reproving him caught him by the hand making him tarry till both slain many valiant Captains were there lost Arius with the wounded Soldiers in the Castle now yielded whose lives Barbarussa as he promised spared but carried them into captivity and desirous to send Sarmentus's Head to Solyman he offered money and liberty for his body but it could not be known among so many dead heaps Barbarussa proud of this Victory wrote threats to Bembus a Venetian Senatour Governour of Cattarus in the bottom of that Bay to deliver the City else he would assault it Bembus answered in so doing he should violate the late League and that he should find him ready to repel his Forces He displeased sent some Galleys discharging great pieces at Cattarus as if come to besiege it Bembus discharging as many more at them shewed his men on the Walls whereupon Barbarussa returned to Castronovum and appeased with Presents from Bembus he departed out of the Bay The long wars between the Emperour and French King were now well pacified and such shew of Friendship betwixt them that most men thought they would as one go against the Turk which opinion not wholly believed by the wiser sort this also confirmed that Vastius and Hanebald 2 of their most famous Captains were sent Embassadours to draw the Venetians into the confederation of that War who gallantly coming to Venice were by Duke Laudus and the State magnificently received the people flocking together to behold them especially Vastius with his tall and comely person They having audience in the Senate Vastius arising from the Dukes side made an oration shewing That by Gods great Providence two of the mightiest Kings of Europe having had long mortal wars were being touched with zeal of Religion become great friends to revenge so many calamities received from the Infidel that they were sent to kindle in them the like zeal who being of such power at sea were wished for of all other as their Confederates in that sacred war and hoped Victory As for Land Forces unto those lately brought into the field at Vienna should be joined all the horse Infantry of France all the forces of Sigismund King of Polonia Wherefore the Victorious Emperour and most Christian King Francis did most instantly request them to enter into the like godly cogitations c. For it might worthily seem a most shameful thing unto them to have renewed their League c. Neither did it beseem that most wealthy State to be terrified with any charges from what was good and right for by the profit of one sea or land-Victory they should to their incomparable praise recompence all former losses The Duke answered in the name of the State Never any thing happened to them more honourable or more desirable than the hope of such a peace wholsome to the endangered Venetian State and wondrously to be desired of all Christian Princes if those two most mighty would sincerely religiously and unitedly resolve upon that sacred War for then would the Venetians not be wanting c. but end their League with the Turk wherefore it was to be requested of the Almighty God that they would speedily and seriously fulfil that hope of Peace which they had in shew promised Few dayes after some select Senatours sitting in Council calling the Embassadours asked them if they knew any thing of the Capitulation of that League and whether they thought Charls in regard thereof would give Francis his son the Dukedome of Millane as was reported Hanebald was silent Vastius said He knew no more but that they had agreed betwixt themselves and that the Emperour 's desired peace to help the afflicted c. could not be effected without yielding in many things to the requests of the French King c. The Nobility and Authority of this Embassage more moved the Senate than he former Embassadours Mendoza a Spaniard and Pellicerius a French-man then present yet they much suspected it because containing no certain resolution c. yet all seemed to rest in this point that the Venetians in hope of this League should neglect the renewing of last-years League with Solyman now almost expired On which uncertainty the grave Senatours thought it too dangerous to depend yet the Senate was wonderfully divided Some inveighed against the renewing of that shameful League with the Infidels urging with many reasons the Christian Confederation Others of deeper reach considering their exceeding harms by falling out with the Turk and suspecting the Emperours drift with the great dearth then in the City not to be relieved but out of Macedonia and Greece Charls having then imposed a Custome on all Corn coming out of Sicily amounting to the price of the Corn and fraight which mischiefs they said were to be prevented by renewing of the league They speut almost whole Winter-nights in the Court consulting what best to do but all there said or decreed was made known not only to the Embassadours but in Provinces far off never before in that State known Foscarus an old Senatour
some short Weapon in their sleeve yet were they not all thus groped who kneeling down and kissing the hem of his Garment he not daining to give them a look they were led back again going backwards till out of his presence and then the Embassadors delivered to Selymus the Emperours Letters briefly declaring to him their Message who answered in four words Confer with my Bassaes and presently they were dismissed and coming out of the two inner-Gates they mounted on Horseback toward their Lodging being accompanied with the Aga and his Janizaries Among whom were certain of their Religious called Haagi who use to follow the Janizaries continually turning about and in their going singing or rather howling out Psalms and Prayers for the welfare of their great Sultan Many more also on Horseback attended their forth-coming The Embassadors to requite their greedy courtesie distributing among them above 4000 Dollars and yet not well contented them The Embassadors after this having divers times conference with the great Bassaes concerning peace they among other unreasonable requests demanded to have their Subjects freed from paying any Taxes or Tributes unto their old Lords living in the Emperour's jurisdiction in Hungary and yet the Emperour's Subjects to pay their Lords in the Turks jurisdiction as formerly to which the Embassadors would by no meanes consent till they knew Maximilian's further pleasure therein whereupon they dispatched one Odoardo a Mantuan who had been employed divers times from Vienna to Constantinople in the Emperour's service Selymus Octob. 20. departed in great magnificence to Hadrianople after whose departure the Embassadors having fully viewed the City embarqued and crossed the mouth of the Haven betwixt Constantinople and Pera passing all along the Coast on Europe side unto the 〈◊〉 Sea and back again by the other side thereof noting the great ruines of the Cities of Bythinia with others along the Asian shoare with their former pleasant scituation and so returned but while they lay long expecting their own Messengers return and of Selymus himself they were advertized in haste to repair to Hadrianople whither the Messenger was now come with full instructions who setting forward Jan. 1. 1568. arrived at Hadrianople about 153. Italian miles from Constantinople after nine dayes and Febr. 17. the peace was concluded whose chief capitulations were that both Princes should hold what they had got each from other the Emperour to pay 30000 Duckats yearly Tribute to the Turk for Hungary to begin January last 1568 that either Subjects should be free from the payments aforesaid and so firm a peace to be betwixt the two Monarchs for 8. years wherein the Vayuod as the Turks Tributary was to be included Yet the Turks raising sundry Cavillations and many doubts did what they might to have somewhat altered what they had agreed upon and with many unreasonable demands stayed the Embassadors till March 20 following and then with Hebraim Beg Selimus's Embassador to the Emperour they returned to Vienna May 10th with joyful newes of peace being two dayes after most honourably received at Court five dayes after which Hebraim had audience who well rewarded soon returned with a full conclusion of peace But whilest the Embassadors were resident at Hadrianople February 16th came an honourable Embassage from 〈◊〉 the Persian King to Selimus to entreat or rather to conclude a peace with him before agreed upon controversies for which they afterwards fell to open Warres He was with the greatest pomp entertained by the Turks at his first coming to Hadrianople who seeing some of the Emperours Embassadours Retinue before their door asked of the Capitzi Bassa what people they were Who told him they were the followers of the Christian Emperours Embassadour who was desirous to make peace with his Master the Embassadour replyed he would willingly salute them the Capitzi turning his Horse toward the place the Emperours Embassadour went forth upon the Threshold and so they with signes and words saluted each other He said also he would gladly talk with them if it might please the Grand Seignior but they never after came together Two dayes after his Steward presented all the Visier Bassaes with divers rich Gifts and Presents and the day after going to visit them himself a Giamoglan meeting him shot at him with a Harquebusse but missed him hurting one of his followers in the Arm He supposed he was betrayed turned his Horse to go to his Lodging but the chief Visier sent out his men to guard him and excuse himself of the fact so he held on his way The fellow being apprehended was asked by the Bassa before the Embassadour why he did it why boldly answered because the Embassador was an Heretique and sent from an Heretical King and an enemy to their Religion Wherefore 't was not meet he should come to treat with his Lord of peace adding he was not worthy of any peace Wherefore the Bassa adjudged him next day to be drawn at a Hors-tail thorow the City then to have his right hand cut off and afterward his Head which was done Febr. 22. he went to deliver the Presents sent to Selimus and to kiss his Hand sending them before upon 34 Camels of the Persian King and 10 of his own There was an Alcaron with the Anthority of Hali for they alwayes present one such Alcoran to whom they send Embassadours It was rich with Gold and precious Stones also a rich Book of Histories a Box with a very fair precious Stone call'd Balasso and 2 wondrous great Pearls with 2 purses of a handful-long full of Jewels 8 Firvari or China dishes 2 most stately Pavillions 20 great silk Carpets many other less of Silk and Gold also 9 fair Canopies to hang over the ports of their Pavillions 9 very fair Carpets of Camels-hair 9 Saddles set with stone after their fashion 7 Staves of silver 7 Scimitars with red Scabberds 7 Bowes with Arrows and Quivers richly wrought also many other Carpets called Testich of the finest Lawn 7 men could scarce carry one of them all the Faulcons died by the way In his own name he gave an Alcoran a large and fair Pavillion Scimitars rich Bowes and Arrowes some Carpets of Silk and Camels-hair After which and reverence done to the Sultan by him and 30 of his followers in cloath of Gold he returned to his Lodging very Honourably accompanied both by the Turk's and his own retinue and although the Persians as may be thought shewed all their pomp yet they made nothing so fair a shew as the Turk's nor are they so fair but most of a swart and brown colour and rather little men than otherwise not much unlike the Spaniards Selimus allowed for their ordinary charges 500 Duckats a day their number being great and their beasts many which expences do begin assoon as Embassadours do enter into the Sultans Dominions and end assoon as their businesse is finished He having concluded a peace beewixt Tamas and Selimus ere long returned into Persia. The Venetians
also sought to renew their League now expired which was easily obtained but of small assurance Selimus now in 1569. purposed to build a Magnificent Temple at Hadrianople for his own Sepulture with a Monastery a Colledge and an Alms-House but was troubled how to 〈◊〉 them with Revenues sufficient for the Mahometan Kings are forbidden to convert any Lands or Possessions to such holy uses but what they have won from the enemies of their Religion which is as a Spur to prick them forward to add to their Empire Nothing that was presented so pleased him as the taking of the rich Island Cyprus from the Venetians which Conquest would be enough with a large over-plus to supply what wanted in his Fathers devout works but that which moved him most was the glory of such a Conquest His Predecessors usually in the beginning of their Raign doing or attempting some notable thing against the Christians The matter being propounded to the great Bassaes Muhamet chief Visier and a secret friend to the Venetians perswaded him not to yield thereunto alledging besides the danger that Solyman at his death charged him the League with the Venetians to be religiously kept which he also had lately most solemnly confirmed But Mustapha with Piall Bassaes so 〈◊〉 what he said envying at his Honour and so shewed both the Honour profit and easinesse thereof much of the Venetian Arsenal being also burnt that Selimus calling Muhamet in his choller Christian no small disgrace presently prepared by sea and land for performance of his resolution which was discovered by Barbarus the Venetian Embassadour and suspected by their Merchants whom the Turks began 〈◊〉 cut short in their Traffique looking big on them and giving them hard speeches The Embassadour came to Muhamet complaining of the breach of the League and remembring him of the Venetian State 's fidelity requesting Selimus before he began that War to declare his mind to the Senate that so happily all might be 〈◊〉 to the good of both parties which he did not for hope to avert the War but to win time till the State might make ready their Fleet and Forces neither left he the Bassa till he procured Cubates to be sent Embassadour to Venice to prove whether the Senatours would deliver the Island or adventure the taking it from them by force These and such like things made known at Venice brought a general heaviness on the City Cubates come to Ragusium Surianus sent to meet him brought him to Venice in his Galley The Senators the while were divided in opinions some thought it not good to wage Warre against such an invincible Enemy c. alleadging they had alwayes in the winding up of the Warres lost something besides losses already sustained that it were better to part with Cyprus so they might quietly enjoy the rest saying time would give them some fit occasion to recover what they had lost to trust in their confederates was but to deceive themselves destruction having come thence whence ayd was alwayes to have bin hoped for Others said nothing could be more dishonourable than without Fight to 〈◊〉 with so notable a piece of their Seigniory c. that the Turks would afterwards seek also after Creet and Corcyra and so they yielding one thing after another to spoil themselves of all c. that hard beginnings had oftentimes merry endings that the favour of that insolent and greedy Nation was not to be gained but with such a costly peace much more hurtful than Warre it self Besides it much concerned Christian Princes to have their State preserved wherefore 't was to be hoped they would ayd them to the utmost In the end it was resolved on by plain force to withstand the Turks So when Cubates came to Venice no man met him or shewed him common courtesie but being admitted into the Senate-house with his two Interpreters onely he delivered Selimus's Letters which whilest they were breaking up and translating he delivered also his Message the effect whereof was that Selimus worthily grieved that the like care of keeping faith did not appear in them as in him who harboured Pirates in their Havens murthering his Subjects which injuries longer to forbear might rather be imputed to him for cowardise than courtesie that the onely remedy of falling out by new quarrels daily arising was to deliver to him the Island Cyprus the cause of all those grievances to which small request if they did not yield he purposed not onely to take it from them but prosecute them with most cruel Warre by Sea and Land taking God to witness all the calamities to ensue thereof to be imputed to themselves Then he in Muhamet the Visier's name told them that he was right sory for this breach c. most instantly requesting them and advising them not wilfully to plunge themselves into such dangers as they could hardly or never finde the way out c. telling them Selimus did nothing but thunder out most cruel threats which his indignation was raised of the manifold complaints brought against them Selimus's Letters were also full of false surmized grievances as that they had in Warlike manner entred his Frontiers in Dalmatia doing great harm that they had put to death certain Turkish Pirates that Cyprus was a Harbour for the Pyrates of the West wherefore he required them to yield it to him or else he would by force take it from them saying he renewed his Fathers League with them not for any liking thereof but because he had resolved at first peaceably to endure all things The Venetians answered the Embassador that they had alwayes inviolably kept their Leagues with the Othoman Emperours in regard whereof they had let slip many opportunities to augment their Dominions in That they had never passed their own bounds or invaded the Turks only to have taken order that no Pirates should roam up and down at pleasure taking God to witnesse they were the Authors of Peace and Selimus of War who contrary to the League had denounced war against them Wherefore they would defend that Kingdom which they by Ancient and lawful right possessed and that the same God would be present to their 〈◊〉 complaints c. Cubates departed at a secret Postern guarded for fear of the people who in great numbers were assembled to the Court-Gate muttering It were well done to rend him in pieces that accursed Turk the Messenger of his faithless Master he as he went storming and swearing by his Mahomet to be revenged of so great an indignity The Senates answer was of some highly commended others deemed it too sharp to the further incensing of the Turk thinking they might have obtained a more indifferent peace by courtesie c. The Venetians forthwith sent Letters to the Governours of Cyprus with all care and diligence to prepare to withstand the Turk and made choice of most valiant and expert Captains by Sea and Land for the defence of their dispersed Seigniorie with the leading of their forces
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
his arrival and know his pleasure who after much torture disclosed their Letters which Ares reading and considering the great number of the Tartars that were come he presently raised his Camp retiring towards Canac thence to certifie the King of the Novelties and there to attend his answer The Tartar coming to Sumachia the Bassa appointed him to pass over Canac into Genge the Country of Emanguli Chan to inrich its self with its spoil who with posting Journeys came to Canac and most furiously assaulring Ares discomsited all his Host sending Ares alive to Sumashia where Osman hanged him by the neck out of a lodging in the State-House where he not long before had sat as Governour Abdilcherai swimming over the River found Emanguli Chan with his Wife and Family and a great part of the Nobility of Genge hunting the Wild Boar putting him to flight taking his wife all the Ladies many slaves and slew many that were come to see the sport Then going to Genge he took it whose barbarous Souldiers left no manner of inhumane cruelty unattempted so loaded with spoiles and weary with slaughter they returned merrily towards Sirvan And at the higher side of Ere 's in low Champains invironed with Hills they pitched their Tents without fear to sleep and rest their weary bodies The Persian King having gathered new Forces dispatched Namze Mirize his eldest son with 12000 Souldiers to see what hurt was done in Sirvan and attempt revenge but especially to punish them of Sethi and other Cities who had so voluntarily yielded to the Obedience and Religion of the Turks He departing from Casbin with his Mother Begum would needs follow her beloved son who was on his way under the guidance and Government of Mirize Salmas and was certified from Ares Chan of the arrival of Abdilcherai with his great number of Tartars being thereby at first almost out of comfort yet out of desire of glory and revenge he hastened and came to Ere 's long before his Father thought he could have so done Caitas Bassa was gone out spoiling the Country carrying away whatever he met withall and committing such insolencies as hungry Souldiers use to do but was suddenly assailed by the Prince and after a fierce and bloudy Battel wherein the Turks though few yet shewed many effects of Valour he was slain with all his Souldiers leaving all to the pleasure of the Victor Whereupon the Prince sent the 200 pieces of Ordnance left in the Fort by Mustapha to Casbin to his Father and now encouraged leaving his Mother at Ere 's went on towards Sumachia but descending the Hills he discovered the Tartars Camp Whereupon he greatly doubted whether to adventure on so mighty an Enemy or content himself with the Victory already gotten but thinking it too great a shame to return into Persia he defended the Hill perceiving the Army was all laid down to rest and their Horses all unsaddled Whereupon he pricking forward most terribly assaulted the Tartars and slaying their first and second Watch though with some loss put some to slight killing others and taking divers of them Captives Abdill Cherai being one who was sent alive to the King After this the Prince encompassed Sumachia wherein Osman Bassa sat as Governour to the reproach of Persia to whom he sent word If he would yield he should depart with life and goods otherwise he should be constrained to surrender the City and his life withall Osman knowing nothing of the Tartars overthrow but hoping of their return gave him a courteous answer that he was ready to yield but entreated him to stay but three dayes to put all things in readiness for his free departure The Prince glad expected of the Turk the performance thereof but Osman the Tartars not appearing resolved secretly to flee doubting if he should longer stay to be betrayed by the Citizens Wherefore before the 3 dayes end he by the help of a dark night and the cover of High rough Crags silently withdrew out of Sumachia carrying away all his substance and safely arriving at Derbent Next morning the Inhabitants opened the Gates to the Prince Who seeing their infidelity first by entertaining Osman now helping him to escape without giving him knowledge thereof with great cruelty did punish them razing their Houses with the Walls of the City The strength of Derbent Winters approach and his long Journey home perswaded him to lay aside his enterprize for that City and to return to Casbin Yet first repairing to Ere 's and Sechi he spared neither Sex Age nor condition Which done he with his said Mother Victorious Army somewhat diminished returned to Casbin Abdill Cherai was kept safe at the Kings Pallace at Casbin but with very easie Imprisonment which was daily so inlarged that he seemed rather as a Companion of those of the Court then a prisoner Whereby insinuating into the love of Queen Begum he spent his time in courting of her and she in all secret entertainment of him yet was it a rife report in Court and City that the shameless Lady had participated her bed and self with the Tartarian prisoner Howbeit the King and Prince knew nothing of it but the King perceiving the young Gentleman to be generally commended valiant courreous and comely also nobly born for he said he was the Brother of Tartar Chan was perswaded it would stand with the great good of his State of a Captive to give him his Daughter in marriage whereby he hoped the Tartarian Praecopenses would thenceforth both refuse to favour Amurath and in favour of Persia turn their Armes against him which his purpose so displeased the Sultan's of Casbin that they sought by all means possible to avert the King from so strange a policy but he fully resolved and upon the point to conclude the Marriage the Sultan's entring the Pallace with their followers ran the Tartar through the body and cutting off his Privities flapped them about his mouth It s reported the Queen was also then murdered by them However it was the Lady after that day never saw the Sun Upon these murders sprung up much civil dissention to the singular benefit of Amurath All which disorders the King by bridling of his own affections and the motions of his Son well appeased procured at last a perfect Unity Osman Bassa being in Derbent devised with all care possible to assure Sirvan now again almost lost under Amurath's Government Wherefore he thought good to enter into friendship with old Sahamall the Georgian Lord These two mutually practising many Tokens of good will and in short time Osman took to Wife a Daughter of the said Sahamall yet he soon began to suspect that Sahamall for all the fair shew of Friendship he made might receive some secret order from the Persian King to betray him and free the City from the Turks and so reduce all that Province in which he was fully confirmed by the speeches of his Wife who frankly told him that
her Father being secretly reconciled to the Persian King Letters went between them of great matters and particularly of the affairs of Sirvan The Bassa kept this in store to his own safety and the destruction of Sahamall and inviting him according to the custom to a Feast he enjoyned certain Companies of his Souldiers that as soon as Sahamall was entred into his Court even in his very dismounting to fall upon him cut off his head and put all his retinue to the sword which being done accordingly he forthwith sent 2000 Horsmen to spoyl and sack all his Country to the great marvel both of far and near The Persian King took this most grievously foreseeing that the recovery of that Province would prove very difficult and fearing it would still remain as it doth in the Turks possession This was the end of the Turks attempts against the Persians in Sirvan this year 1578 wherein one way or other they lost above 70000 men Amurath advertised from Mustapha who for the advancing of his own credit had described these successes to be far greater than they were began to devise touching the next years attempts and upon his better consideration ceased further to think of sending Forces again into Sirvan for the recovery of the lost places there because Tartar Chan had faithfully assured both him and Osman to over-run that Province anew and do great matters which for all that fell out to be but windy words So Amurath devised for sending his Army to Tauris to erect a Fortress there which being also strongly Garrisoned should never be again subdued And hereby to keep under all those Countries between Tauris and Erzirum which important conceit was much encreased by others who almost thought it was very easie for so great an Host both to perform that service and pass whithersoever he would desire yet having with more indifferent judgement compared his own Forces with his Enemie's to wit the Georgians on one side of whom he had yet no great assurance and the Persians on the other He found many difficulties and dangers in that tedious Journy which at first he saw not Whereupon he concluded first to make sure his own borders and afterwards by little and little to enter into the Enemie's Country still fortifying in convenient places as he went Hereof he wrote to Mustapha charging him against next spring to provide all things necessary for building certain Forts between Erzirium Georgia to secure those ways and bring those people first under Obedience Whereupon Mustapha presently directed precepts to divers places for taking up 20000 cunning Pyoneers c. and writing to all the Countries whence he raised his Army the last year that a greater number of Souldiers should be ready against next spring which he caused to be spread as far as 〈◊〉 commanding also the Taxes and Tenths to be collected and using the Chambers of Aleppo and other places for what mony he thought necessary Alexander and Manucchiar the while in doubtfull hope at Constantinople were examined and exhorted to embrace the Mahometan Religion Manucchiar easily yielded but Alexander would by no means consent though he knew he should be deprived of his Estate and protesting his Obedience at all times to Amurath and his love to his Brother requested only but as a private man to go and live in his own Country there to be buried among his Ancestours which request the Turk referring to Manucchiars discretion he consented thereto Manucchiar was circumcised and called Mustapha with the Title of Bassa of Altan Cala and of all his Mother and Brother's Countries so they both returned home Now in the Persian Court were many consultations for repressing the Turks Invasions Imanguli Chan doubting to lose his Government of Genge by reason of the late sacking of his City and spoyl of his Countrey offered to the King on pain of his Head to defend Sirvan against Osman's further Fortifications or Conquests Whereupon the Government of Genge and guarding of Sirvan was committed unto him and divers other Governours and Captains that were nearest commanded to assist him if either the Tartars or Turks with any great power should enter therein But how to protect the Georgian Country was thought a matter of greater importance because most thought some great Turkish power would be sent thither to assure the Conquest begun and to succour the Fortress of Teflis which must else fall again into the Georgians hands Simon a famous Georgian once a prisoner with Ismahel at Cahata and by him seduced from the Christian Faith for defence whereof he had chosen to live deprived of liberty and estate thinking it now a fit time to obtain from the King long desired help to recover his Dominion usurped by Daut his younger Brother who for obtaining thereof of Tamas had renounced his Religion offered the King his faithful service for defence of that part of Georgia wherein Teflis stood against the Turks reproving his younger Brother by way of disgrace of cowardize The Persian King with great content consented to his request naming him Chan of all that Kingdom which he possessed whilst he was a Christian and sent with him Aliculi Chan with five thousand Horsmen and certain Ordnance taken at Ere 's Simon comming to Georgia was joyfully received pressing about three thousand Souldiers of his owne and his Neighbours excusing his becomming a Persian as no preferring Mahometanism before Christianity but thereby to be delivered from long imprisonment and to maintain his estate The Spring approaching all the Turks Forces in 1579. met at Erzirum with all necessaries for the intended Warre i th this Army equal with the first Mustapha in twelve dayes 〈◊〉 to Chars and since they were to fortifie that City with Walls and Ditches and that with all speed many of the Spaoglani yea and of the Janizaries also must needs be set to work whereupon they tumultuously and bitterly protested to the General that their stipends were not bestowed on them to employ them in such servile works but only with their Weapons ro exercise that force for which they were esteemed worthy of that honour but he using most haughty terms and all means of Authority and Terrour they wrought as much as he desired so in 23 dayes all was finished and the Water brought round it whilst they were busie in this work amongst many inconveniences the Souldiers endured a most sudden cold by reason of great abundance of snow falling August 25. Mustapha resolved to send succour to Teflis but how to relieve it he was doubtfull yet to preserve his credit with Amurath he sent Nassan Bassa of Damasco Mahamet the Visier his Sonne of great valour with between eighteen and twenty thousand Souldiers with one Resvan Captain of certain Adventurers who freely offered themselves assigning also to him forty thousand Duckats and many loades of Corn with other necessaries Nassan resolving to put these succours into Teflis or to lose all came to the Strait of Tomanis where the
succours must needs be sent by the Turks determining also to go himself to Carrach with his Army a place commodiously scituated between Tauris and Sirvan and there to expect Sinan's remove who he doubted to surmount Mustapha would attempt some great enterprize but into Georgia he sent such as had best experience of those Countries and were nearest unto him with whom he sent Tocomach also and others whose service he had before used that they joyning their forces with Sinan if the Enemy should bend to Tauris they should follow him that so they might joyn together with him and so incounter the Enemy the forces that these lead were 10000 men which with them of Georgia made 13000 who arriving at Genge gave Simon knowledge of their coming and that in his behalf they were ready to do great matters The Persian Embassador was honourably received at Constantinople and honourably entertained by the great Bassaes but chiefly by Mustapha who two dayes after suddenly died surfetting of immoderate eating of Musk-millions and drinking of Zurbet a pleasant drink made of water and Sugar but most thought he poysoned himself as 〈◊〉 new complaints of the 〈◊〉 against him for suppressing Embassages in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sent from the Persian King 〈◊〉 his death it was commonly reported that if he had longer lived he should have been undoubtedly strangled and i deed his 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 into the Kings Treasure only a sma l portion left to his Nephews a most certain token of Amurath s indignation Maxut 〈◊〉 audience Aug. 7th with 〈◊〉 lively reasons and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Turk to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Warre began as 〈◊〉 to the will and pleasure of their Prophet Mahomet as also to the Peace 〈◊〉 and largely concluded between Tamas and Soliman not to have been broken but upon some great injury 〈◊〉 which the Persians 〈◊〉 never offered but had declared by an 〈◊〉 sent by Sultan 〈◊〉 that they had 〈◊〉 wished him all happiness and though there was some 〈◊〉 that Ismahel in his short Raign would go to Babylon c. yet he had received due punishment for that you 〈◊〉 part and abuse of his liberty after long and straight imprisonment but their present King did above all others imbrace amity with him and therefore did most earnestly desire him to emper his anger conceived against him so much his friend and of the same Religion Amurath onely 〈◊〉 order that he should communicate whatsoever he had to say with his Visier who required all those Cities and Countries which the Turk had 〈◊〉 that time conquered or whereon his Generals Horse 〈◊〉 trod to be yielded again unto him which the 〈◊〉 had no warrant to do whereupon he 〈◊〉 to be evil 〈◊〉 as suspected for a Spie wherewith he was too plainly charged by he Visier's Speech And perceiving himself strained to grant these demands and receiving also some threatnings he gave the Visier good hope he should perswade his King to yield up so much as Amurath did demand hereupon he was in friendly manner sent from Constantinople to Chars where Sinan was Commissioned speedily and faithfully to have the Embassador conducted to Van thence into Persia wheresoever he did desire But Sinan the General who from Erzirum was now come to Chars dispatched thence the Embassador much discontented that no other conclusion for peace could be wrought Maxut arriving at Court reported to the King all that had happened in this his Embassage who for the present was well satisfied with what he had done giving him in reward the name of Chamberlain of Tauris of which great Office he took small pleasure for that Emir Chan his ancient Enemy was chief Governour of that City wherefore leaving a Deputy to execute his Office himself withdrew to Cassanggith a place of his own till the King should otherwise dispose of him but Emir Chan certified the King that Maxut had in contempt of his rewards abandoned Tauris substituting a most base person to represent his Majesty and mannage his Treasure and that he had no doubt withdrawn himself into the Confines of Turkey either to yield himself to them or have intelligence with them and was likely enough to be guilty to himself of his great errour in promising so large conditions to the Turk whereby as a Traitor to his own King he had obtained such a safe Convoy wherefore it were good to try his inclination c. whereupon the suspicious King commanded Emir secretly to apprehend him and bring him to Court and if he could not by other meanes then by torture to wrest from him the truth of all glad was Emir hereof but Maxut having some inckling when 15 tall Fellows were sent to him from Emir in the Kings name to summon him to Court he in shew courteously entertained them with great Cheere but when sleep had overcome them by reason of excess he had them straightly bound and with long Cords hanged down into a deep Well which he secretly covered then withall his most precious things he fled with all his Family in the Evening and was next day friendly entertained by the Turkish Bassa at Salmas so also at Van whence he was sent to Sinan honourably accompanied who very glad sent him with all diligence to Amurath Sinan after eight dayes stay at Chars went to Tomanis there to build a Fort but he could not perform it for the immoderate Rain which for eight dayes space continually fell besides he greatly feared least the Enemy taking the opportunity of the rain and building suddenly should assault his Army and greatly endammage it wherefore he removed thence to carry succours to Teflis but as soon as he was past the straight 〈◊〉 Capta n of the Janizaries of Damasco and Homar a Sanzack secretly hearing that a 〈◊〉 out of the way was good store of Corn and Cattel with 2000 Souldiers went to 〈◊〉 in that 〈◊〉 Now Simon and the Persians had divided their Souldiers into all places where there was any thing to allure the Turks to scatter from the Camp who suddenly fell upon these 〈◊〉 Turks being 〈◊〉 so that of that 2000 all were slain except Ta-logli who escaped Sinan coming to 〈◊〉 in two 〈◊〉 in reproach of Mustapha who falsely had informed Amurath that Teflis was as great and 〈◊〉 as Damasco called a Councel of his chief Captains ordering every man to depose upon Oath the 〈◊〉 touching the greatness thereof then dividing the Treasure and suckers brought amongst the Souldiers of the Fortress he cheared 〈◊〉 with good words and great promises and 〈◊〉 they greatly complained against their Bassa he caused a 〈◊〉 to be framed against him and 〈◊〉 he had converted pay to his own use he condemned him to restitution and placed Guisuf Beg a Georgian in his room who for the ancient enmity between him and Simon had most welcomly yielded himself to the Turks Sinan departing thence and passing the straight of Toman's Mustafzad Bassa declared unto him that not far off was great store
out The Hungarians in the Isle of Shut having submitted to the Rebels did much trouble the passages to Rab Comara and Strigonium to whom Messengers being sent to perswade them to return to their Obedience they so used the matter that those of Shut taking a Truce for 8 days sent 5 chief men to Presburg 〈◊〉 If they and their goods might be secured and the Haiducks there with them entertained into pay they would be ready again to swear Allegiance c. and leave their wives and children as pledges at Presburg The Governour gladly accepting their Offer courteously dismissed them who returning and declaring what they had done it was agreed 4000 of them to joyn to Collonitz who wore special Fea hers in their Crests for distinction's-sake their Wives and Children being carried to Presburg Upon which Agreement the Rebels and Turks invaded the Isle to surprize them but were by the Inhabitants ayded by some German Troops put to flight 3000 being slain About the beginning of July Commissioners were sent to treat with Botscay about a pacification who being honorably entertained were July 29. dismissed Botscay's Propositions were these 1. Every one to have free exercise of the reformed Religion for though he said he desired not to have an ancient Hungarian Decree to burn all not professing or revolting from the Catholike Religion repealed yet the Emperour regarding the present troubles to assure That none should thenceforth be troubled for his Religion 2. He requested to have Transilvania during his life after whose death it should return to the Emperour yet a natural Hungarian to govern the same as also Hungary 3. But one Bishop to sit in Council who might if thought meet be the Chancellour 4. Their Liberties and Priviledges to be kept inviolate 5. That he should only choose the chief Palatine of the Kingdom 6. All confiscated goods to be given to men of desert 7. All State-offendours to be judged by the Council of Hungary 8. None to be Bishops but those of the Noble Hungarian blood 9. All former injuries to be forgiven and forgotten All which if granted he promised to do his utmost for peace betwixt the Sultan and Emperour upon the best conditions he could requesting also the Charters of peace might be subscribed and confirmed by the Pope Emperour Polish-King and all the Imperiall Countries Achmat hearing of this Treaty sent in haste to Botscay seeking by great Offers and Promises to hinder it minding him also that he had lately subscribed as well as promised that Botscay having King Johns priviledges should shortly be proclaimed crowned King of Hungary Wherefore he was even now ready to send a Scepter and Crown to Alba-regalis but at present he sent him 2 goodly Horses with furniture of Gold and precious Stones also a rich Scimitar a pair of Golden Spurs and a long Horsmans-coat most richly garnished perswading him valiantly to 〈◊〉 who presently after went with a gallant Train into Transilvania to take an Oath of the Nobility for their 〈◊〉 to him sending also Redeius his Chancellour and others into Poland to renew the former Confederacy betwixt the Polonians and Hungarians who declared to the King the causes of that civil War which he imputed chiefly to the oppression of Religion and the German's insolency labouring much to perswade him thereof then requesting him of his grace and care which he and other Christian Princes had for the quiet of Christendom chiefly of those 2 distressed Countries to consult how so great troubles might be appeased and to afford his ayd to so good a work The King answered The renewing of the ancient 〈◊〉 was very pleasing unto him yet he could not well like of Botscay's revolt from that Family to which he was so nearly affined promising however to propound the matter to his Nobility who agreed That he that should out of Poland ayd Botscay should lose his head So the Embassadors returned much discontented to Botscay being now returned with a great power to Cassovia About this time Lord 〈◊〉 at Prague falling from words to blowes with Francis Count Belioisa his Brother Francis their men taking each part was flain Belioiosa being dangerously hurt in 5 places who so prosecuted his Brothers death that Rusworm was by the Emperour condemned and beheaded and divers of his men hanged with the Weapons at their heels wherewith they 〈◊〉 Francis Although the time of the year was now come that the Turks by reason of the Persians and their own Asian Rebels could not send so great Forces as they had wont into Hungary neither could the Emperour now raise such power as formerly to oppose them through the Hungarians revolt the Italian and German Princes affording little or no ayd and his own mercinary Souldiers mutinying for want of pay Serdar Bassa Achmat's Lievt General with what Forces he brought and supplies of the Rebels being notwithstanding 50000 strong Aug. 29. encamped before Strigonium having 40 battering-pieces and all necessaries for the siege the Tartars who came with them thither presently passing over the River Gran spoiled burned all the Christian Territory before them The Turks the while to deprive the City of all relief made a great Bridge of Boats over the River which they strongly fortified at both ends which much dismayed them of the City yea Basta seeing himself so weak much doubted of the event yet during the siege he shewed the utmost of his Valour and Wisdom for safeguard of the place Now those of the Isle of Strigonium had remained faithfull whom the Rebels often sought to force and perswade from their Loyalty 200 Haiducks returned to the Emperour's service were joyned to the Islanders but the Rebels suddenly surprized the Isle cut all these Haiducks in pieces Wherefore Basta would have sent the Walloons for defence thereof but the Islanders requested the contrary lest they should after their manner prey upon them so Collonitz was appointed who with Mounsieur de Lavall a French Gentleman lately come with his Troop to see service went into the Island into which the Rebels shortly entring he drave them our slaying 250 and taking about 50 in which conflict Lavall so bravely behaved himself that everymans mouth was full of his praises for he was scarce 〈◊〉 years old but the Rebels soon returning again more numerous and resolute there was a more bloudy fight yet the Rebels were forced with loss to retire Laval not to be perswaded from adventurously pressing on the retiring Enemy was shot and slain all that knew him much lamenting him But the Rebels still in one place or other invading the Isle and threatning all extremities most of the Islanders revolted and suddenly setting upon the Count of Rhene slew 300 of his men grievously wounding himself also Wherefore Basta sent over Ratzians and Walloons who spoiled the Islanders of what the Rebels had left them The Turks before Strigonium battering St. Thomas Fort for almost 3 weeks together had with great charge and loss of men made
writing for him to confirm most being drawn out of the pacification at Vienna in 1606 1. Freédom of Religion to be permitted in every City and Town 2. All the strong places to be governed by natural Hungarian Captains 3. That Crown to be still in Hungary and kept by temporal men 4. First of all a Palatine to be chosen 5. If the King did not alwayes reside there he to be content that the Palatine and Councel should in his absence conclude of all things 6. All publick Offices to be bestowed onely upon well deserving Hungarians none to be admitted for money 7. No Jesuites to be in the Kingdom nor Ecclesiastical men so much favoured as formerly 8. Officers not to be bound to give account but before the Treasurers of Presburg being natural Hungarians 9. Money not to be carried out of the Kingdom as hitherto 10. The Palatine dying the King to chuse another within a year the chief Justice the while as of old supplying the place The Protestant States of Austria had sent to those of Hungary then at Presburg requesting that since they could not obtain the free exercise of Religion as well within as without their Cities they would afford them the ayd due by the pacification at Vienna who sent Turson and others with interceding Letters to Maximilian who answered King Matthias never thought to attempt against the priviledges of Austria granted by the Emperour Maximilian but he could by no means grant to the Cities the liberty of Religion both for Conscience and for danger that might ensue from the Pope and King of Spain yet he would promise to suffer it without the Cities and in bestowing publique Offices to regard no Religion yet so that they laid down Arms submitted to the King confessed their fault craving pardon whereby perhaps they should prevail most The Hungarian Embassadors going with this answer to the Austrians by divers Reasons earnestly perswaded them to submit and by request to solicite their cause with the King whereof were That the League betwixt the Hungarians and Austrians concerned as well the Catholiques as Protestants that the Hungarian power could not be brought into Austria but to its utter destruction that 〈◊〉 Religion was never planted or defended with the Sword Christ saying them to be happy who therefore suffer persecution and commanding Peter to put up his Sword into his scabberd that hereby Hungary it self should be exposed to many dangers c. But all Controversies ended with the Hungarians Illishashius was chosen Palatine and Matthias November the 14th proclaimed King of Hungary and on the 19th day Crowned in great Pomp and solemnity at Presburg and on a high 〈◊〉 covered with Cloth sworn to the HUNGARIANS as their KING and they to him as his Subjects where many Haiducks and common people at or after the great Feast scrambling for the money that was cast abroad and in taking up the Cloth from the scaffold had their hands and fingers cut off King MATTHIAS now stayed at Presburg till the new Building in the Castle was ended where the Crown was to be kept that he might see it with the other Ornaments put thereinto and sealed up with his own Seal and the while laboured to appease divers contentions and to place fit men in great Offices for the Hungarians would not suffer the Germanes therein wherefore many were displaced and Sigifrid Collonitz also a most well-deserving man yet soon after by Maximilian's Counsel he was by the Hungarians repenting thereof both restored to his former Offices and had even greater preferments offered him also but Illishaschius now Palatine Novemb. 28 largely and earnestly entreated with the King in behalf of the Protestants of Austria chiefly because those of Hungary seemed in their behalf much moved and the Moravian Embassadors openly protested their States could not forsake them if their need required The Elector of Saxonie and other Princes of the Empire earnestly interceded also for them yet the Popes Nuntio so withstood them that the King then granted nothing who returning to Vienna the Protestant States of Austria sent six EMBASSADORS to the KING to know whereto to trust who answered them December the 27 they should be content with the former answer and submit to the Kings pleasure or do what they saw good whereupon they levied new Forces perswading their Souldiers that minding their Oaths to serve faithfully wheresoever and against whomsoever Now a great Army of the Protestants lay about Crembsa and Spain So that the King sent to those two Towns 1500 Horse and some Ordnance under Bucheme to strengthen them publishing an Edict Jan. 10th 1609 charging the States to come to Vienna on the 21 day to take the 〈◊〉 of allegiance yet they most stifly refused remitting nothing of their Requests so that 〈◊〉 who had 〈◊〉 in this cause was quite out of 〈◊〉 Bucheme the while was like to be disappointed of a 〈◊〉 place he was about to take up for his Horsemen by Gerrane's Horse on the States side wherefore Bucheime with seven Troops and Gerrane with 3 and 3 Companies of Foot had a hot skirmish Jan. 13th 100 of Bucheimes men being slain of Gerranes not so many they having the advantage of ground hereupon the King much moved proclaimed at Vienna proscribing all the Protestants Souldiers and pronouncing them Rebels except before Jan. 21 they laying down Arms departed their Camp howbeit the 〈◊〉 States increased their Forces and from a Hill not far from Hallenbynne discharging three tire of Ordnance much terrified the Kings Souldiers within the Town The States of Moravia about this time sent Embassadors to those at Horne and others to the King declaring unto him their States were earnestly importuned by those of Austria to 〈◊〉 them ayd according to their agreement the year before and amongst the rest telling him the Protestant States were content to put the controversie to grave and wise Arbitrators on both sides yet so that for 〈◊〉 dayes no Hostility should be used the Inhabitants above and beneath Amisum to be comprised in this Truce those in durance for Religion to be freed and all high wayes and passes to be cleared from all dangers Hereupon the King gave leave to the States of Moravia upon the most equall tearms they could to compose all matters who so laboured therein that March the 12th a Pacification was made betwixt the King and them the Pope's Nuntio and other great Ones seeking in vain to lett it and among other Articles concerning the liberty of their Religion and Priviledges some who were put out of Office for not taking the oath of Allegiance were to be restored to their places all grudging 〈◊〉 and quarrell to be on both sides forgiven and for ever forgotten the Towns above Amisum to have the free exercise of the reformed Religion in their Suburbs and Hospitals Ere long the King going to Lintze with 300 Horse was with 8 Troops aud 15 Foot Companies meeting him most honourably brought into the City where
he received of the States the Oath of Obedience which Triumphantly performed he May 27. 〈◊〉 to Vienna The States of Austria the while Zealously exercising their Religion at Horne a multitudet of people daily resorted to their Sermons the Romanists much grieving and fretting thereat the King also put divers Catholicks out of Office placing Protestants in their rooms greatly discontenting many About which time the Bassa of Agria had compacted with one Drake for 20000 Crowns before-hand to have Filek delivered unto him who would have effected it by setting his House on fire in the night but his traiterous purpose discovered and by him confessed he was alive cut into 4 pieces The Bassa of Buda also went about to exact the Oath of Allegiance of above 400 Christian-Villages not comprized within the Treaty but the Haiducks on the other side assembled in great numbers in upper Hungary began here and there to trouble the Turks till they were commanded to desist for disturbing the peace About this time also Illishachius much beloved and lamented of the Hungarians died at Vienna who was with all Funerall pomp buried in his own Territory in Hungary with his Ancestours in whose stead Turson was by the Hungarian Nobility chose Palatine and by the generall acclamations of the people so saluted And now rather worse troubles began to arise in Bohemia for Religion than in Austria the Hussites so called earnestly importuning the Emperour for the free exercise thereof or rather for removall of some grievances done thereto and the Catholiques leaving nothing unattempted to frustrate whatever the Emperour had in a generall Assembly granted to them of the Religion which controversie he having referred to some of his chief Counsellours and they wholly favouring the Romanists would give the other no answer to rest on they upon good deliberation appointed May 4th to hold a generall meeting in the new Court at Prague to consult of all matters concerning their Religion yet the while protesting in Parliament by Codovitsius They appointed it for the Emperour 's good and quiet of the whole Realm c. Immediatly after they sent Embassadors to King Matthias the Electour Palatine Dukes of Saxony and Brunswick requesting them to mediate for them to the Emperour for the freedom of their Religion wholly agreeing with the confession of Augusta long before allowed by Maximilian Now these 〈◊〉 were by some commended by others both blamed and accused of Rebellion but the Emperour complaining of the inconsideratnesse of his Counsellours prorogued the Parliament commanding by a 〈◊〉 that very day to be appointed for concluding that Article of Religion on which the States had appointed their Assembly Howbeit many troublesome Spirits published in Writing that the States-Assembly was only to rise rebelliously against the Laws and their Prince and advised them to forbear from making any such Assembly Hereupon in Prague they of the Religion and Romanists not daring to trust each other were ready upon every false report and vain surmise to go together by the ears till the Emperour caused it to be proclaimed in the now Court at Prague that he understanding the States Apology did abrogate his late Edict against them accounting them all for his good Subjects c Denouncing their appointing their Assembly in the new Court at Prague not to be contrary to his Majesty and that he appointed May 25. for a Parliament to be in Prague-Castle for ending the Article about Religion and reforming other grievances of the Common-wealth yet so that the said States should safely and quietly come thither not entertaining any Forraign Souldiers as neither should himself do Whereupon they publiquely praying and singing for their good success returned from the new Court to provide to come to the Parliament next day But the Emperour still delaying the matter the States weary and in doubt June 3d. offered to the Emperour a short writing concerning their grief and further purpose 〈◊〉 the blame to the troublesome Natures of some Ecclesiastical and Temporal persons protesting also that since they certainly heard much Warlique preparation chiefly in Bavaria to be and divers consultations to be holden against them unknown to him and his faithfull Counsellours which might tend to the destruction of himself and the whole Kingdom they would endeavour by Arms to their utmost to defend him their Soveraign with themselves and the Kingdom against Forraign Force and Invasion In the mean time an Embassadour from the Duke of Saxony came to entreat the Emperour in the State 's behalf 〈◊〉 also of the Silesian States came requesting the Emperour to have the free exercise of their Religion 〈◊〉 unto them and promising most readily to ayd the Bohemian States if need should be but the Bohemian States raised a great number of Horse and Foot whom they brought even to the City at length July the 11. the Saxon Embassadours earnestly soliciting their cause they received answer from the Emperor according to their desire by effectual Letters granting the States of the Religion a free communicating under both kinds and a free exercise of their Religion in all points throughout all Bohemia without the let or interruption of any and to be he said for ever inviolably kept Which to be for ever remembred he would cause the same to be enrolled in the publique Records of Parliament The Letters were publiquely set up in Prague-Castle July 13. that all might know this Article of Religion the first in that Parliament propounded to be concluded according to the minds of the States who on the 15 day had a publique Sermon according to the confession of Augusta preached in the German Tongue in an assembling place which had long bin shut up sending also to the Duke of Saxony for learned men for the setting up of the University of Prage and governing the lower-Consistory there both now granted unto them also by the Emperors Letters And for all this the Silesian Embassadour's still labouring with the Emperour for the religious liberty of that Province the Bohemian States would not dismisse their Souldiers mustered nigh Roggenson till the Silesians had their request offering him also a large Narrative of their griefs But the Turks Embassador coming from Vienna with a notable Train Sept. 21. having first saluted and presented the King with great gifts at Vienna comming to Prague was honourably received by the Citizens and Emperour's Council Octob. 12. and on the 19 day presented to the Emperour from the Sultan a rich Tent of divers colours most curiously wrought with Orient Pearls 4 couragious Horses with most sumptuous Furniture some Turkish Weapons set with precious Stones a Princely Turks-Robe used at their Marriages with other rare things of less value He also delivered him the Sultans Letters desiring the peace for 20 years to be again renewed unto whom Letters were delivered from the Emperour with rich Presents for the Sultan to wit Caroches lined within with Damask and covered without with black Velvet 6 gallant Horses most richly
pillar before the Apostles Temple in perpetual remembrance of him which overthrown by an earthquake was restored by his Son This great City sometime the Worlds beauty by the strange mutations was wonderfully defaced c. for its beauty when the Latins took it was most defaced by fire who while they had it ceased not to destroy some part or other as if they had known they should not long keep it neither did this last fire a little deform it wherefore his chief care now was to cleanse the City and first beginning to repair the Temples then filling empty houses with Inhabitants Though the chief Latins were fled yet most Tradesmen were Venetians and Pisans to whom to joyn the Genowaies and to sill the City he thought not altogether safe but assigned them 〈◊〉 now Pera on tother fide to inhabit with priviledges and a Consul of their own over every Company storing 〈◊〉 what he could with natural Greeks But though all things went as 〈◊〉 could wish yet fearing such is the torment of usurping tyrants lest the smouldred anger of the Empires right heirs should break into open force and perhaps work his confusion thought best to dispose so of Theodor's children that he might not stand in doubt Besides Mary and Theodora before married to the Despot of Epirus and the Prince of Bulgaria other two younger were in his custody Theodora and Irene whom he married to 2 Latins one of Peloponesus the other to one of Genua men of no great birth or power John the heir only remained but 10 years old whom Paleologus at first sent into Magnesia to be kept from Court lest in his right new stirrs dangerous to his estate should begin The which the 〈◊〉 took so ill that he forsook all to spend his days in a little Monastery of the Piscasins from whence 〈◊〉 drew him almost against his will making him Patriarch of Constantinople The Usurper unmindful of his former faith given 〈◊〉 to establish him and his posterity in the soveraignty caused the young 〈◊〉 eys to be put out for which barbarous cruelty Theodora his sister ceased not to stirr up the Prince of Bulgaria her husband in revenge Jathatines also weary of exile entreated him to war on the Emperour promising him a great sum if he might recover his liberty who with his own power and above 20000 Tartars sooner than could be thought over ran all Thracia leaving neither man nor beast as he went hoping also to surprize the Emperour returning from 〈◊〉 but that he in a Galley of the Latins put in by the Sea side to water arrived safely in the imperial City wherefore the Bulgarian marching to Aenum forthwith being terrified they delivered the Sultan unto him In his return they drave before them such numbers of men and cattel that for a space either 〈◊〉 or beast was not to be 〈◊〉 in the open 〈◊〉 Jathathines carried over 〈◊〉 and set at liberty soon died whom Meleck his Son succeded not but two other Mescott and Keicubades of the Selzuccian Family as were all the Turks Sultans betwixt whom Cazan the great Tartar for a yearly tribute divided the Turks Kingdom unto Mescott the Cities of Amida in Galatia Melasia in lesser Armenia c. unto Keicubades Iconium with all Countries of lesser Asia along the Sea coast So that the Turks Kingdom long flourishing in Persia Syria Palestine and Aegypt were overthrown by the Mamaluks and Tartars and now brought under in lesser Asia also the 2 weak Princes reigning but at the devotion of the Tartar In which confusion divers of power shared something of the declining Kingdom but many of the basest people only with bows and arrows with daily incursions from the Mountains straits much 〈◊〉 the adjoyning Christian Countries still gaining upon the Greeks what they lost to the Tartars for the frontier Garrisons being for want of pay disbanded and the Castles abandoned was at length a great ruin to the Greeks in lesser Asia At length a great power of them meeting in Paphlagonia to invade the Christians Paleologus sent a strong Army to stay their further coming which by unskilfulness of Captains was by the Turks who of purpose retiring had drawn the Greeks into danger of ambush utterly 〈◊〉 few or none of that multitude escaping After which victory the Turks over-ran all the Countrey to the River Sanger on whose banks Paleologus fortified divers places to keep them out of Bithynia Yet they soon 〈◊〉 all from Pontus and Galatia to the Lycian and Carian Sea to the River Eurimedon dividing them 〈◊〉 to Toparchies little acknowledging Mescot or Keicubades Many conflicts in the mean time passed between the Mamalukes and Tartars for the Soveraignty of Syria The poor Christians in doubt of both with the Armenians infested by the Mamalukes sent divers to the Pope and Western Princes for help whose prayers moved Lewis of France and Henry 3 of England topromise them aid Lewis took on him the Cross causing Philip that succeeded him Peter and John surnamed 〈◊〉 for his Mothers heaviness for her husband in her delivery his 3 Sons and most Nobles to do the like to whom the King of Navarr and 2 others joyned He set forward from 〈◊〉 March 1. 1270 staying a while at 〈◊〉 through force of weather he arrived at Carthage not the ancient City but another built after in her ruins or not far from them surprizing certain ships in the Haven but assaulting the Town he was notably repulsed On a day the Defendants making a fierce sally on the French retired by degrees to draw their enemies on The Constable coming and charging them behind and the retirers now standing they were hardly beset who made there a great fight not without extream peril which they in the City beholding hideously cried astonying their friends and enemies But the French approaching a Bulwark on the Sea side took it without resistance at which they without began to flee and them of the Town for their lives yielded it to the King Carthage won he besieged 〈◊〉 being by the way encountred by the Moors King who losing 10000 men fled resolving to keep within his 〈◊〉 walls if happily he might weaken his enemies by protacting time Lewis resolved not to stir thence the City not seeming to hold out for want considering the peoples multitude yet it held out 6 months streightly hemmed in every way after which Embassadours were sent to treat for Peace But the whiles a furious 〈◊〉 cut down the French by heaps John Triftan his youngest Son dying Aug. 25. 1270. The King shortly dyed of the Bloudy flux yet his brother Charles 〈◊〉 with fresh Souldiers somewhat lightned the French and daunred the Moors Edward Henry of England's Son came to 〈◊〉 in 10 daies with a brave Company from 〈◊〉 being joyfully received of the other Princes who a little before concluded a peace with the Moors King upon his paying a yearly tribute of 40000 Crowns to the King of Sicily and suffering
Christian Religion to be freely preached in his Dominions and the converts to be baptized c. Edward what he might disswaded them from it saying They were enemies to the Crosse of Christ c. But the Peace concluded they said they might not break and so hoysing sail they returned toward Sicily with purpose next Spring to go into Syria But being come nigh the Isle Drepanum most of the great ones went on Land in boats for the ships being most of great burthen they could not put in to the harbour As they lay at Anchor some were eaten up some perished by falling foul of each other others beaten to pieces by a violent tempest above a 120 sail perished with all the people c. only Prince Edward's 13 ships escaped free without any losse The Plague followed them at Land Theobald of Navarre and his Wife dying Lewis his daughter the French Queen with a number of others so that Philip the French King discouraged returned into France as did the rest into their own Countrey Onely Edward at Spring set forward to Ptolemais from Sicily where after a moneths rest marching with 6 or 7000 into the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Nazareth putting all to the sword and returned killing afterward and putting to flight his enemies following and hoping for advantage And about Mid-summer killed above 1000 Saracens dispersed the rest making head at Cackhow about 40 miles off Aided by the Cyprians he with like successe made a 3d expedition that for his fame they not a little dreaded him But the Admiral of Joppa one of the Mahometan Assassins 〈◊〉 it meritorious to kill any great enemy of their 〈◊〉 feigning a desire to become Christian had sundry times secret intelligence with the Prince Who being searched had accesse to him lying through hear on his bed bare-headed and pulling out pleasing letters from his Lord which he read but the company voided as he farther questioned with him he suddenly pluckt out an envenomed knife secretly hidden to strike him into the 〈◊〉 the Prince lifting up his arm was grievously wounded therein but as he went to double the stroak he felled him to the ground with his foot and wresting the knife out of his hand and hurt in the forehead he presently slew the murtherer The servants running in one beat out the dead man's brains with a stool to the Princes displeasure The wound in his arm began to mortifie after certain daies dressing that the Surgions began to look heavily yet cutting out all the dead and poysoned flesh they perfectly cured him in 15 daies after The Sultan sent calling his Prophet to 〈◊〉 it was not done by his consent whose Embassadours were not suffered to come nigh him So no expected aid comming in 18 moneths he returned homeward travelling from Apulia to Rome and by France arrived in England where Henry a little before dead he was Crowned in 1272 Gregory 10th knowing the Christians hard state in Syria being lately there with Edward ratified the election of Rodulph of Hapspurge to the Empire upon promise of giving them relief offering the Emperour also 200000 crowns with all tenths for 6 years many blessings being by the Preachers in his name promised to all taking on them the holy war Whereupon he and shortly the Duke of Lorrain and others took on them the Crosse yet busied in other wars and delaying so long and dangerous a journey the threatning Pope died and nothing was done At length the Emperour at some good leasure sent Henry Prince of Meckelburg 〈◊〉 a strong power to perform what he had 〈◊〉 who from Ptolemais destroyed all with fire and 〈◊〉 about Damasco carrying away rich booties till circumvented by the Mamalukes he at Caire remained 26 years in prison till a runagate German being Sultan demanded of him If it would not do him good to celebrate the Nativity of his Christ in Germany the time being at hand I know said he thou respectest that more than liberty Truth said Henry for liberty would avail me nothing if Christ by his Incarnation had not taken away our Captivity therefore I wish I could perswade thee how much all owe to the remembrance thereof God forbid said the Sultan for when I was thy Fathers chief Engineer at Knesefenick I was of the Christian perswasion but leaving that Errour I have also changed my fortune but wouldst thou gladly be free and return home to thy friends Nature craveth it said he though fortune which yet dependeth of thy pleasure gainsayeth I must take thy denial in good part assuring my self that my Wife and beloved Sons have long since ended their mourning Thou art 〈◊〉 said the Sultan c. I owe much to thy Father's remembrance and therefore give thee thy liberty furnishing him with necessaries He departed with one Martin his servant with him all his Captivity and came to Ptolemais and in the way to Cyprus was as a fugitive taken by sea and brought to the Sultan who set him again at liberty and transporting him to Cyprus where as some say furnished with all things fit he came to 〈◊〉 travelling by Land into his Countrey and at last being known by his own Children and friends was joyfully received as their Father and as the Prince of his Subjects shortly after dying Thus it appeareth what notable expeditions the Princes of the West undertook again Christ's enemies and for relief of the 〈◊〉 Christians in Syria and Palestine Divers of them had glorious success some answered not with like event c. Yet even in more zealous times the Christian Princes not feeling those harms so far off and more regarding their hereditary quarrels could not be moved to reach their helping hands unto their brethren crying out for aid The Germans were jarring about their Emperor's choice The French agreed not with the English nor the Low-countreymen nor the English with the Scots the Arragonians at odds with the French and in Italy many deadly factions Of which Melcohsares Aegyptian Sultan understanding purposed to root out all the Christians in Syria and Palestine and joyn them to his own Kingdom but sudden death hindred his great designs Alphix succeeding him entring Syria besieged Tripolis and undermining it put all Christians to the sword but those that by speedy flight escaped and raced it to the ground this was April 9. 1289. Then he took and garrisoned the Castle of Nelesine to hinder them from building it again Likewise sacking and racing Sidon and Berytus after three months siege Tyre was yielded to him on condition of departing with bag and baggage He took as without resistance all strong holds in Syria and Palestine except Ptolemais the Christians Sanctuary defended by the Knights and Templers with whom he voluntarily made a Peace for 5 years The Christians as it were faintly breathing by the late Peace the 2 Grand Masters passed as Embassadours to Pope Nicholas for his fatherly aid who solicited the Princes especially Rodolph the Emperour for their relief who busied with