The Romane historie vvritten by T. Livius of Padua. Also, the Breviaries of L. Florus: with a chronologie to the whole historie: and the Topographie of Rome in old time. Translated out of Latine into English, by Philemon Holland, Doctor in Physicke

THE SIXTH BOOKE OF [unspec G] THE HISTORIES OF T. LIVIVS of Padoa, from the foundation of the Cittie of Rome. [unspec H] (Book 6)

The Breviarie of L. Florus upon the sixth Booke.

IT containeth the fortunate wars against the Aequians, the Volscians, and Tuscanes. Foure Tribes were added to the former, Stellatina, Sabbatina, Promentina, Arniensis. M. Manlius, who bad defended the Capitoll from the Gaules, whiles be dischargeth the debts of those that were in dan∣ger of their creditours, and released such as were then emprisoned, was convicted of aspiring to be King, and throwne downe from the cliffe Tarpeia. In whose reproach a decree was made by the Senat, that none of the house of Manlius, should be surnamed Marcus. C. Licinius and L. Sexti∣us, [unspec I] Tribunes of the Commons, prop••sed a law, that Consuls also might be chosen out of the Commons, who were created before from among the Nobles onely. And albeit the Senatours withstood them with earnest endevour, yet by reason that for five yeares space, the same Tribunes continued the onely magistrates of the cittie, they went through with that law and gat it enacted. And L. Sextius was created, the first Consull that ever was, of Commoners. A second law there passed likewise, That no man might possesse above five hundreth acres of land.

WHAT actes from the building of the cittie of Rome unto the taking of the same,* 1.1 the Romanes have atchieved, first under the government of Kings, afterwards of Consuls and Dictatours, Decemvirs, and Tribunes Consular, as wel in the wars abroad as seditions at home; I have in five books declared. Matters obscure, both in regard of exceeding antiqui∣tie [unspec K] (as things that a fatre off hardly be discerned:) and also for that in those daies there were very few writings & monuments, the only faith∣full safegard, & true remembrances of deeds past: and besides, what∣soever was registred in the Commentaries of the Priests, and in other publike or privat records, the same for the most part, when the cittie was burned perished withal. But now from henceforward, their civile affaires of pollicie, and martiall exploits in warre, ensu∣ing after a second beginning of the cittie (as springing againe with more fresh shoots and fruit∣full sprouts from the root of the old stocke) shall bee delivered in more plaine and certaine manner.

And to begin withall, looke by whom the state first was underpropped and set upright, upon [unspec L] him (as chiefe and principall) it still bare and rested, and that was M. Furius: whome the Ro∣manes would not suffer to give up his Dictatourship before one yeare was fully expired.* 1.2 As for those Tribunes (Consular) in time of whose government the citie was lost, they liked not that they should call and hold an assembly for Election of Magistrates, the yeare following. So the matter came to an Interreigne. Now whiles the cittie was busie in continuall worke and labour, about reedifying and repairing their buildings, Q. Fabius so soone as he was out of his office, was by C. Martius a Tribune of the Commons, arrested to make his answere at a day appointed. Who laid to his charge,* 1.3 That he contrarie to the law of nations, had fought against the Gaules, unto whom he was sent in embassage, and as an Orator only. But he avoided his judiciall triall, by his death: and died so just against the time, that many men thought it was voluntarie & wrought [unspec M] by his owne hands. Then P. Cornelius Scipio first entred upon the Interreigne: and after him M. Furius Camillus the second time. Hee created Tribune Militarie in Consuls authoritie, A. Valerius Publicola the second time, L. Virginius, P. Cornelius, A. Manlius, L. Aemylius, and L. Posthumius. These men presently after the Interreigne, were not so soone entred into office,

[unspec A] but before all other things, they consulted with the Senate in matters concerning religion and conscience. And first of all they commaunded, that all the instruments of leagues and confede∣racies, the ordinances and laws also (and those were the twelve tables, and certaine statutes made by the kings) should be sought up as many as could be found extant. Whereof some were publi∣shed abroad, even amongst the Common people: but such as pertained properly to holy rites, and divine service, were by the Priests and Prelates suppressed; especially, of purpose to hold the minds of the people in a reverent awe of religion and devotion.* 1.4 Then began they to reason and debate about the dismall daies. And the fifteenth day before the * 1.5Kalends of August, so notori∣ous for a twofold losse and overthrow; upon which day at Crémera the Fabij were all slaine, and after at Allia an unfortunate field was sought, even to the utter ruine and desolation of the cittie, [unspec B] they named of the later misfortune, Alliensis: and set this unluckie mark upon it, That it should be reputed unmeet and unconvenient for any businesse, as well publicke as private. Some thinke, because upon the next day following the * 1.6Ides of Iulie, Sulpitius the Tribune Militarie could not by sacrifice find any tokens of happie speed, nor obtaine the grace and favor of the gods; where∣upon three daies after, the Romane hoast fell shamefully into the hands of the enemies: there∣fore, the morrow also after the Ides was interdicted, and men were commaunded to forbeare and abstaine from doing sacrifice: and thereupon likewise, the day next following the Kalends & the Nones, were by tradition held as ominous and dismall as the other.

But long they might not quietly sit about the devising of meanes to reforme the Common∣weale, and let it upright againe after so greevous and daungerous a fall. For of the one side, the [unspec C] Volscians, their old enemies, took armes, intending the finall destruction of the Romane name. On the other side, the Marchants brought newes, That the Princes and cheefe of all the nations of Hetruria were banded and confedered together in a Diet held at the temple of Voltumna, to make warre upon them. Besides, a fresh and new feare came upon them by reason of the re∣bellion of the Latines and Hernickes, who after the battell at the poole Regillus, for the space al∣most of a hundred years, had continued fast in loyall league & amitie with the people of Rome. Therfore being thus greatlie affrighted on everie side, that all the world might see apparantly that the state of Rome was not onelie hated of her enemies, but despised also of her allies: it was thought good and resolved upon, that by his direction and rule, the Commonwealth should now be maintained and defended, by whose conduct and guidance it was relieued and recove∣red: [unspec D] and that M. Furius Camillus should be created Dictatour. He being declared Dictatour, named Q. Servilius Hala for Generall of the horsemen. And having proclaimed a law-steed (or vacation from courts of law) hee tooke muster of all the younger sort and serviceable men: but so, as the elder people were not left out, as many as were of strength sufficient for service. Vnto whom hee likewise ministred the militarie oth of alleageance, and enrolled them by hundreds in the multer booke. When hee had thus levied a power of men, and furnished them with armour, he devided them into three parts. The one he opposed against Hetruria in the countrie of Veij: another he commaunded to lie encamped before the cittie. Over these A. Manlius a Tribune Militarie was made captain: those which were sent against the Tuscanes had L. Aemylius for their commaunder. A third part he himselfe led against the Volscians: and not [unspec E] farre from Lanuvium (the place is called Ad-Metium) he began to assault their campe. The ene∣mies had put themselves on this their journey, with a kind of scornfull contempt, as thinking the whole manhood in a manner of Rome, was by the French cleane spent and wasted. But when they heard once, that Camillus was the Lord Generall, it stroke such a feare and terrour among them, that they were glad to defend themselves by the strength of their trench and rampier, yea and to fence it round about with huge-piled heapes of wood and trees, that their enemies might have no passage to enter in upon their munitions. Which when Camillus perceived, he gave or∣der to set on fire that Barricado which stood in his way. And as good hap was, the wind was big and high, and blew full upon the enemie. So that not onely he made way by fire, but also with the flames thereof that went toward the campe, with the vapor likewise and smoke, and the crackling [unspec F] noise of the greene wood, he so mated and astonied the enemies, that the Romans had lesse ado to passe the trench & pallisado, into the campe of the Volscians, than in getting over the mound and enclosure consumed with fire. Having thus defeated and slaine his enemies, and won with∣all the campe in the same brunt, the Dictatour gave the whole spoile unto the souldiours: which to them was so much the more welcome, as they lesse hoped for it at their General his hand: who

was never knowne to be lavish of gift, and over liberall in dealing rewards. After this he followed [unspec G] them that fied, in chase, wasted and haried their whole countrie, and at length (in the seventieth yeare of the warre) he wholly subdued the Volscians, and forced them to yeeld subjection. After this conquest, he departed from thence into the Aequians, who likewise made preparations for warre. Their forces he surprised and defaited at Bol••, and assailed not onely their campe, but also forced the cittie, and at the first assault wan both.

But whiles fortune smiled thus, what way soever Camillus went, as being the onelie staie of the Romane state: so on another side the feare of perill greatlie encreased. For Hetruria well neere all up in armes, lay before Satrium, and besieged it being in league with the people of Rome. Whose Embassadours came unto the Senate to intreat for succour in their distresse, and had a decree granted unto them, that the Dictatour with all speed should rescue the Sutrines. But be∣ing [unspec H] so streightly beleagured, that they might not abide the delay of this their hope, for that the townsmen, who were but few in number were overwearied with working, watching and bloodie fighting, (all which lay still upon the same men without intermission) they were driven by com∣position to surrender up the cittie to the enemies: and being disarmed and sent away with a sin∣gle suit of apparrell (after a piteous sort all arow) departed the towne and left their dwelling places. But see, it fortuned that Camillus at the same time came in the verie manner with the Romane ar∣mie and met them. At whose feete the multitude all sorrowfull lay prostrate: their Nobles and chiefe men in this extremitie full to beseech him to be good unto them: the women and chil∣dren which went along with them, as partakers and companions of their exile, seconded them with wofull teares & lamentations. But he willed the Sutrines to forbeare their mourning plaints, [unspec I] and give over their doleful mone: saying, that he brought the Tuscans heavie & weeping cheere. Then caused he his soldiours to lay downe their packs and load, the Sutrines likewise there to abide with a meane guard, and his men to follow him with armour and weapons onely. Thus marched he forward with his armie lightlie appointed for readie expedition, and advanced be∣fore Sutrium. Where, according to his expectation, he found the enemies all carelesse and se∣cure (as commonly it falleth out upon a prosperous successe.) No warders, no corps de gard quartered before the wals, the gates wide open, the conquerours heere and there sacking, rifling and flinging the goods out of their enemies housen.* 1.7 So was Sutrium in one day twise woon. The Tuscanes (for all their former victorie) were hewen in peeces on everie side, by a new come ene∣mie. They had no time to cast themselves round, nor gather together into one place, no nor to [unspec K] take weapon in hand: whiles everie man for life, made in all hast to the gates, if haply any way they might escape into the fields. But when they came thither, the gates they found fast shut, for so the Dictator had given order aforehand. Here upon some betooke themselves to their weapons: others (namelie such as happened to be armed when this suddaine tumult surprised them) fell to call their fellowes together for to begin a skirmish: which no doubt in that desperate case of the enemies had been hotclie fought, had not the criers and trumpets which were sent into all partsof the cittie, made proclamation to lay downe their weapons, to spare them which were unar∣med, and that none should have anie harme but those that were found in armes. Vpon this, euen they who in that extremitie and dispaire were fullie bent to fight it out, for hope of life on all hands flong away their weapons: and thus disarmed as they were (for as the case stood, it was the [unspec L] safer course) presented themselves to the enemie. A great number of them were bestowed in severall places, and were attended upon with good guards. And before night the towne was de∣livered againe unto the Sutrines, safe and sound without any hurt at all done unto it, as being not woon by force, but surrendred upon composition. Camillus then, returned with triumph into the cittie of Rome, victour at one voiage in three sundrie warres. The greatest number by farre, of prisoners, whom he led before his chariot in triumph, were Tuscanes: whom he sold in port sale at the speare, ••nd raised such a summe of mony, that when he had out of it repaied the dames [of Rome] to the worth of their gold, there were of the surplusage therof three bolles made of massie gold: which with the title & inscription of Camillus his name, were for certainty, before the Capitol was burnt, to be seene in the chappel of Iupiter set up & bestowed at the feet of Iuno. [unspec M]

The same yeare, there were enfranchised and made citizens of Rome, such Veientians, Cape∣nates and Faliscians, as in the time of those warres were fled to the Romanes: and for these new citizens were certain lands set out. Those also, who for idlenes loth to build at Rome, were gone to Veij, there to inhabit the vacant houses, were by an Act of the Senat recalled home from thence.

[unspec A] And they at the first, grumbled & refused to obey: but after that a day was set them, & they threat∣ned upon paine of death to return again to Rome; as stout as they were, & obstinate all of them together, now for feare every one became obedient. As Rome now increased in number of inha∣bitants, & became well peopled: so on all hands in everie place they fell to building new edifices: whiles the Commonwealth somewhat eased them of charges, & the Aediles by vertue of their of∣fice called hard upon them, hastening them forward as to a publike worke; yea and every man pri∣vately made all speed possible,* 1.8 according as ech ones need required, to make an end and finish his owne house. So as within the yeere the cittie was new built and stood on foot againe.

At the yeares end was the great Election held for Tribunes militarie in Consuls authoritie. Wherein were created T. Quintius Cincinnatus, Q. Servilius Fidenas the fifth time, Iulius Tullus, [unspec B] L. Aquilius Corvus, L. Lucretius Tricipitinus, Ser. Sulpitius Ruffus. One armie they set out and led against the Aequians, not to warre with them (for they granted themselves conquered) but upon meerspight and deadly hatred, to wast all their borders utterly, and to leave them no power and strength to enterprise any new rebellion. The other, into the territorie of Tarquinij. Where, two townes of the Tuscanes, Cortuosa and Contenebra, were by assault wonne and rased. At Cor∣tuosa was no resistance m••de. For the Romanes surprised them on a suddaine, and at the first shout and impression they were masters of it: The towne was sacked and burned. As for Con∣tenebra, it endured the assault for some few daies: but the continuall labour, slacking neither day nornight, overcharged them: wheras the Romane armie devided into six parts, fought six houres in their severall turnes, round one after the other. And the townsmen being but few, and those [unspec C] overtoiled, were faine without anie supply, still to maintaine fresh skirmishes. Whereupon, at last they reculed backe and yeelded, giving the Romanes leave to enter the cittie. The Tribunes were of mind and thought good, that the spoile should be confiscate and go to the common treasurie: but the commaundement and proclamation, was more slacke than their purpose in that behalfe. For whiles they lingered and protracted time, the soldiours alreadie had seased in their prises: and taken from them againe without much offence and hatred, the bootie could not be. In the same yeare, because the cittie should not flourish in private buildings onely, the Ca∣pitoll was also built of squared ashler stone: A peece of worke even in this so glorious estate, and magnificence of the cittie,* 1.9 to be had in price and esteemed excellent. And now before this time, the Tribunes of the Commons, whiles the cittie was busied about their buildings, began often [unspec D] to moove for the lawes Agrariae (about the division of the lands) in all their assemblies and speeches before the people. For to draw them on and to set forward their hope, they presented unto them eftsoones the Pomptine territorie, which then aboue all others, so presentlie upon the subduing and subversion of the Volscians by Camillus, was, no doubt, the rightfull possession of the people of Rome. Complaints were made, that those grounds sustained much more de∣triment and dammage by the Nobilitie, than they had received before from the Volscians. For they, so long onelie as they were able to beare armes and maintaine warre, made inrodes thither: but the Noblemen forciblie entred and made havocke in the possessions of the common lands: and unlesse (before they had set sure footing there, and got all into their hands) a division were made, the Commons should never enjoie one foote of ground there. These Remonstrances of [unspec E] the Tribnnes little mooved the Commons, both because few of them resorted to the common place of assemblies, whiles they plied their building: and also for that monie was away, and their purses so emptied in the charges of workemen, they had little mind of holding those landes, which to store and stocke they were not able.

The cittie was now given much to their devotions aad religions, and the rulers also somewhat superstitious, upon their late calamitie: In so much as they minded to renew the Auspicia [or the solemnitie of presages taken by birdflight] for some error supposed therein: & therfore they agree∣ed that the government should returne to an Interreigne. So there were Interregents one after another, M. Manlius Capitolinus, Ser. Sulpitius Camerinus, L. Valerius Potitus. Valerius at length held the assemblie for to elect Tribunes Militarie in Consuls authritie,* 1.10 and created L. Papyrius, [unspec F] Cn. Sergius, L. Aemylius the second time, L. Licinius, T. Valerius Publicola the third time. These presently after the Interreigne, began their government. That yeare, the Temple of Mars vowed in the Gauls war was dedicated by T. Quintius,* 1.11 a Duumvir deputed for the executing of holy du∣ties. Foure Tribes of new citizens were now adjoined, Stellalina, Pomatina, Sabbatina, Arniensis: and these made up the number of the 35 Tribes. And now L. Sicinius a Tribune of the Com∣mons

was in hand with the people in greater number assembled together, about the Pomptine [unspec G] lands: and more enclined they were and forward to hearken after grounds, than they had beene asore. And whereas it was mooved in the Senate house, to make warre upon the Latines and the Hernicks, that matter was not followed, but put off to a further time: by reason of preparation for a greater warre, because Hetruria was alreadie up in armes. And all was laid againe upon Cae∣millus his shoulders, who was made Tribune Militarie with Consuls authority, and had five other brethren in office joined unto him S••r.Cornelius Maluginensis, Q. Servilius Fidenas the sixt time, L. Quintius Cincinnatus, L. Horatius Pulvillus, P. Valerius. In the beginning of the yeare, the minds of men were turned cleane away from the carefull regard they had of the Tuscane warre, by reason that a number of people that fled out of the Pomptine countrie, came all of a suddaine in great hast to the cittie, and brought word, that the Antiates were up in armes, that the nations [unspec H] of the Latines had sent their able youth to that warre closelie under hand, thereby disavowing it to be any action of the State, and standing upon this point, that by the covenant there was no proviso, but that voluntarie soldiours might serve in what warres soever they would. Now had the Romanes beene well taught, and learned, to set light no more by any warres. The Senate therefore thanked the gods, that Camillus was in place of government, who if he had beene a pri∣vate person, was no doubt to have beene nominated and created Dictatour: yea and his compa∣nions in office confessed frankely that he was the onlie man to have the soveraigne and absolute regiment of all, in case there were any fearfull and dangerous warre toward: and were fully resol∣ved, to yeeld up all their interest in government unto him, thinking it no disparagement at all unto them, nor any losse of their owne honour and reputation, in conferring the same upon the [unspec I] majestie of so worthie a person. The Senate highly commended the Tribunes, and Camillus was much abashed in his mind, howbeit he gave them heartie thanks, and spake in this wife.

A waightie burthen (quoth he) I see is imposed upon me by the people of Rome,* 1.12 in that they have elected and nominated me Dictatour now the fourth time: a greater charge is enjoined me by the Senate, the whole state and bodie of which order, hath delivered so singular good opi∣nion and judgement of me: but the heaviest lode of all is laid upon me by the exceeding kind∣nesse and obsequious benignitie of these my honourable brethren and colleagues. If any pain∣full travaile of mine therefore, and watchfull care may be redoubled, I will earnestlie endeavour, I will straine and strive to answere therunto: that the opinion which the cittie with so great con∣sent hath conceived of me, right as it is exceeding great, so it may continue still and be perpe∣tuall. [unspec K] As to that warre of the Antiates, there are more brags and threats than any danger and perill from thence. But as I would counsaile and advise you to be affraid of no warre, so I would not have you to be carelesse and secure of any. The cittie of Rome is beset on everie side: partlie envied, and partlie hated of her neighbour borderers. Need there is both of more captaines, and also of more armies, to manage the affaires of the Commonweale. I thinke it good therfore (quoth hee) ô Valerius, that you assist me in government and counsell, and have the leading togither with me of certaine legions against the Antiate enemies. That you Q. Servilius, with an other armie well appointed, and in readines, lie encamped hard by the cittie side, having an eie and good regard, least either Hetruria in the meane while, (as of late daies) or the Latines and Hernicks (who trouble vs now a fresh) breake out and make some rising. Assured I am, that [unspec L] you will behave your selte, and quit you in this service so worthilie, as may answere the famous memorie of such a father and grandsire as you have had, may beseeme your owne honourable person, and those six Tribune••hips which you have alreadie performed. As for L. Quintius let him leavie a third power of men, consisting of those that are by reason of sicklinesse or other wife excused for warfare, and are above the ordinarie age for militarie service, to be in stead of a garison for defence of the cittie and the walles. Let L. Horatius provide harnesse, weapons, come and other necessaries for warre, at all occasions whatsoever. Finally, ô Sergius Cornelius, wee your fellow Tribunes, ordaine you president of this publicke Counsell, the Custos and keeper of re∣ligion and Church matters, of generall assemblies, of the lawes and all other civill affaires of pollicie whatsoever.

Now when they had all made promise, and that most willingly to do their [unspec M] endeavour in performing their severall charges, Valerius whom he had joined with him∣selfe in commission, added moreover and said, That as he would take M. Furius to bee Dictatour, so would he be unto him againe in steed of his Coronell of horsemen. And turning to the Lords of the Senate, exhorted them that what opinion they had of one one∣lic

[unspec A] soveraigne Generall, the same hope they would conceive of the whole warre. The Sena∣tours hereat tooke great joy and contentment, giving out willingly with one accord, that they hoped exceeding well of war, of peace, and generally of the State. Neither shall the com∣mon-weale (say they) ever stand in need of Dictatour, so long as such magistrates be in place, so jointly agreeing in one mind together, so indifferent and readie as well to obey as to rule, and rather yeelding their proper praise to the honour of the common-weale, than dismembring and plucking from it to their privat glorie and reputation.

After a Vacation or Law-steed proclaimed, and the Musters taken and past: Furius and Vale∣rius set forward to Satricum: whither the Antiates had not onely sent the floure of all the Volsci, the choise youth out of a fresh frie and new generation; but also had raised a mightie power of [unspec B] Latines and Hernicks, out of those nations that by long peace were most frimme & lustic. These new enemies and old thus combined together, troubled the minde of the Romane souldiour, and made him to startle. Which when the Centurians reported to Camillus, as he was marshal∣ling and setting his battailes in array; and that in these termes, to wit, that the hearts of his soul∣diors were disquieted & dismaied; that they rooke themselves but slowly to their weapons, made staying and hasting when they should come forth of their tents, yea and that there were some of them overheard to say, that, They must fight one to an hundred, and that so great a multitude of their enemies (if theywere unarmed) might hardly be encountred, much lesse, being so well ar∣med and appointed: he mounted presently upon horsbacke, and rode before the ensignes, and then turning himselfe a front his armie,* 1.13 traversing betweene the rankes and arraies; What hea∣vinesse [unspec C] is this my souldiors (quoth he) what meanes this strange and unwonted lagging behind? Why? Know ye not your enemie? Know ye not me? Or know ye not your owne selves? The ene∣mie, what is he els but the perpetuall matter and subject of your valour and glorie?

And yee againe are the men, who under my conduct (to say nothing of the winning of Falerij and Veij, and of the slaughter of the Gaules Legions, put to the sword by us, even when our native cittie was by them taken, and they masters thereof) of late, and but the other day, made a threefold tri∣umph, upon a triple victorie, over the same Volscians Aequians and people of Hetruria. What, Doe ye not agnize and accept me for your Generall, because not as Dictatour, but as Tribune, I gave you the watchword, and put out the banner of battaile? For mine owne part, I stand not much upon absolute and soveraigne commaund over you: no more likewise should yee regard [unspec D] oughtels in me, but mine owne selfe. For never yet did my Dictatourship make me hautie and set me up aloft, no more than my banishment abated my courage and cast me downe. We are the same men still all of us: and since we are come to this war, furnished with the same meanes that we carried with us unto the former, let us looke for the same event of our service, & no worse. So soone as ye shall encounter and joine battaile with them, performe each one that which he hath been taught and wonted to▪ the journey surely will be ours, and they (no doubt) shall run away. Then after he had founded the battaile, he alighteth from his horse, and caught the en∣signe-bearer that stood next him, with his hand, haled him forward against the face of the ene∣mie, crying estsoones alowd, On afore with thy banner, Port-ensigne, and advance forward, soul∣diour.

When they saw that Camillus in person, a man well stept in yeares, and thereby weake to [unspec E] performe the parts of bodily strength, putting himselfe forth against the enemie: all at once they pressed forward, set up an outcrie and shouted, every man calling upon his next fellow, to follow their Generall for shame. Over and besides, some say that by the commandement of Ca∣millus, there was an ensigne flung into the very battaile among the enemies. Whereupon they of the forefront, bestirred themselves lustely to recover it againe. And thereby were the Anti∣ates first discomfited, and the feare not onely came upon them in the vaward, but entered also and reached as farre as the rereward, that stood readie for supply. And as the violent force of the souldiors, provoked by the presence of their Captaine, much troubled the enemie: so nothing more daunted the hearts of the Volscians, than the very sight of Camillus himselfe, when they chanced to espie him. So surely carried he the victorie with him, which way soever he went! And [unspec F] that appeared most evidently in this, That when he saw the left wing at the point to give backe and run away, he took himselfe in all hast to his horse, rode thither with his light footmans buck∣ler, and with his onely presence renewed the fight; shewing unto them how the rest of the battell had the better. Now were the enemies put to the worst, & the victorie enclined to a side. But their multitude both hindred themselves in their flight: and also a long peece of worke the wearied sol∣diours

of the Romanes had to put so great a number, all to the sword. But behold, there fell [unspec G] a great tempest of raine all of a sodaine, which powred down with so mightie windes and storms, that it rather put them by the execution of assured victorie, than parred any battaile or staied the fight. Whereupon the retreat was sounded: and the night ensuing, whiles the Romanes were at rest, made an end of the warre. For the Latines and Hernicks forsooke the Volscians and de∣parted home, with as illspeed, as their enterprise was bad. The Volscians seeing themselves abandoned and left in the church by them, (upon whose trust and confidence they had rebelled) quit the campe and field and put themselves within the wals of Satricum.* 1.14 Whom Camillus at first began to besiege, casting a trench and rampier about them, raising bastillions & platforms against the towne. And seeing his munitions and fabricks by no sallying forth of the enemies impeached, he supposed there was no such courage inthem, that he should neede to stand so [unspec H] long about the hope of victorie: and thereupon, encouraged his men not to weare themselves out in a tedious and toilfull piece of service, as if they lay at the siege of Veij: assuring them that the victorie was in their hands alreadie: and so with exceeding cheerefulnesse of his souldiours, he set ladders upon everie side, scaled the wals, and entred the towne. Then the Volcians flung away their weapons and yeelded themselves.

But the Generall his mind was bent upon a greater exploit, and that was the winning of An∣tium, being the seat towne of the Volscians, and from whence the beginning of the last warre arose. Howbeit, because so strong a cittie might not be woon without great preparation of artil∣lerie, ordinance and engins of batterie, leaving his colleague behind him with the armie, he went himselfe to Rome, to persuade with the Senate, for to destroy and rase Antium utterly. And [unspec I] whiles he was emparling with them (such was the will of God I beleeve, that Antium should stand still and continue longer) there came embassadours from Nepet and Sutrium, craving aid against the Tuscanes, saying: That it was more than high time, that they were succoured and re∣l••e••ed. Vpon which occasion it fell out, that Camillus was withdrawne thither from Antium. For seeing that those two townes stood even against Hetruria, as it were the very keies and bar-gates from thence: both the enemies laboured to gaine them afore hand, against the time that they went about to make new wars; and the Romanes also held it a matter of great consequence, to rescue and defend those frontier townes. The Senat therfore thought good to be in hand with Camillus, for to leave Antium, and to undertake the war with the Tuscanes. The cittie-legions under Generall Quintius, were appointed unto him. And albeit, he rather would have had the [unspec K] leading of that armie, which laie now in the Volscians countrie, and which he had good triall of, and were acquainted better with his government, yet refused he nothing: onely he required to have Valerius his associate still, and joyned with him in commission. So Quintius and Horatius were sent to succeed Valerius in the Volscian war. Furius and Valerius tooke their voiage from the cittie to Sutrium, and found the one side of the town possessed alreadie by the Tuscanes. On the other side, the townesmen, for that the enemie had stopped all passages betweene, hardly able to repell the force of the assailants. But the comming of the Romane aides, and the name besides of Camillas, (so highly renowmed as well amongst the enemies as Allies) both for the present gave them heart to abide the brunt, and sticke to it still that were before at the point to give over: and also gained time and respite, to come in with fresh supplies and succours. Camillus [unspec L] therfore devided his forces, and gave direction to his colleague, for to bring about his power, to that side which the enemies held, and there to make an assault: not so much for any hope he had by sealing the wals to win the cittie; as by withdrawing the enemies thither, not onely to ease the townesmen of their toile, and give them a breathing time (who were now wearied with assaults) but also to get himselfe some opportunitie and vantage, to enter the cittie without skirmish and resistance.* 1.15 Which being put in execution on both hands accordingly, and performed at once: the Tuscanes beset with a two fold feare round about, seeing the wals assailed most fiercely one waie: and the enemie gotten within the towne another way: flung out at one gate (which as it hapned was not bese••) and in great hast all together sought to escape away. But as they fled, they were slaine by heapes both within the towne and abroad all over the fields. The greater number [unspec M] were killed within the wals by Furius his souldiors. Valerius his men were more readie and nim∣ble in the chase, and gave not over the execution untill the night came, that they could not see and d••••cerne them.

When Satrium was thus recovered and restored againe to their allies, they led forward the

[unspec A] armie to Nepet: which towne the Tuscanes held wholly, as surrendered alreadie into their hands. Every man thought it would be a busier peece of worke to win that cittie againe: not in this re∣gard onely, that it was fully in the enemies possession, but also because some of the Nepesins, by treason had yeelded it up. Howbeit, they resolved to send unto the heads and principall citizens; that they should sever themselves from the Tuscanes, and performe on their behalfe trustie and faithfull loialtie, like as they had craved and besought at the Romans hands their friendly helpe & protection. From whom they received this answere againe, That it lay not now in them to doe any thing at all, for that the Tuscanes kept the wals, and warded the gates. Whereupon they first terrified and skared the townesmen with harrying and spoiling their territorie: after that, seeing they made more reckoning of keeping their faithfull loialtie to their enemies unto whome they [unspec B] had lately surrendred, than observing the league with their friends, which they had long before concluded; they provided themselves out of the fields of a number of faggots, of brushwood, and such like trousse, and so approched the cittie with the armie, filled up the ditches close to the wals,* 1.16 set ladders to, and at the first shout and assault given, the towne was taken. Then proclama∣tion was made, that all the Nepesines should part with their armour and weapons, and so many as were found unarmed, should be spared. But the Tuscanes, as well armed as unarmed, were put to the sword every one. As for the cheese authours that persuaded the Nepesines to deliver the towne to the enemies, they were beheaded. The harmelesse multitude had their goods restored, and to the towne was left with a garrison. Thus the two Tribunes (Consular) having regained out of the enemies hands two confederate cities, returned in great glorie to Rome with their victori∣ous [unspec C] armie.

The same yeare the Latines and Hernickes were required to make amends for harmes done, and restitution of goods wrongfully detained: and the cause demanded why of late years, accor∣ding to a covenant in that behalfe provided, they had set forth no souldiors to the Romans wars.

Answere from both Nations in their solemne counsels was returned:* 1.17 That neither the fault was generall, nor proceeding from counsell of the State, in case some of their youth served under the Volscians: and yet themselves had well paied alreadie for their leaud and rash projects, in that not one of them was come home alive. And as to the not sending forth of souldiours, the cause was, for that they were in continuall feare and danger of the Volscians: which noisome plague (as it were) sticking so close unto their sides, unneath they could bee rid off, notwithstanding so [unspec D] many warres one in the necke of another. When relation hereof was made unto the Lords of the Senate, they thought so well of their answere and excuses, that they deemed they had quar∣rell and occasion good ynough to warre upon them, if they might have had while and time as well to follow it.

In the yeare following, when A. Manlius, P. Cornelius, Titus and Lucius Quintius, both Capito∣lini, and L. Papyrius Cursor the second time, were Tribunes Consular, there arose a greevous war abroad, and a more dangerous sedition brake forth at home. The warre, from the Volscians, ban∣ded with the Latines and Hernickes, that were fallen away and revolted. The sedition (where it was least feared) from a personage of noble linage descended, of great name and reputation, M. Manlius Capitolinus. Who being a man of too lostie and hautie a minde, despised all other [unspec E] of the Nobilitie, and envied one above the rest, M.Furius, so singular, as well in regard of his ho∣nourable dignities,* 1.18 as his worthie parts and commendable vertues. Hee could not brooke and endure, that hee onely should ever bee Lord Generall in the field: who now was exalted so high above others, that even those who were created with him in egall authoritie, he accounted not as his peeres and fellowes, but emploied as his ministers and servitours.

Whereas (quoth he) if men would weigh aright, and duly consider everything, M. Furius could never have delivered his countrie from the siege of the enemies, had not the Capitoll and castle cliffe been saved by mee afore. Camillus set upon the Gaules, when they were amused in receiving their gold, when they were upon tearmes of peace, and their hearts quiet and secure: whereas my selfe chased them away, whiles they were in armes, and at the point to win the castle hill. In that exploit of Camillus [unspec F] the soldiours, had each one his share proportionably of the glorie, who together with him did their parts: but in the service performed by me, no earthly creature was fellow and partener with me. With these conceits he fed his owne humour, and pussed up his prowd spirit, being withall by corrupt disposition of nature, hote and hastie, arrogant and insolent.

Discontented besides, that of the Nobilitie, his gifts & qualities were not esteemed of that worth, as in his own judge∣ment

they deserved: first, of a Senatour he became popular, and began to breake his mind, and [unspec G] impart his designes unto the Magistrates of the Commons: finding fault with the Nobilitie, and complaining of them: solliciting and inveagling the Commons, to cast a liking and favour toward himselfe: carried away with the vaine gale of the peoples opinion: not guided by sage counsell and discretion: and in one word, chusing rather to be of great name, than of good and honest report. And not contenting himselfe to deale in the lawes Agrariae, about the division of lands, which had alwaies ministred to the Tribunes of the Commons matter ynough of muti∣nies and seditions; hee began to intermeddle betweene the debters and their creditours, and to overthrow all keeping of credite. And indeed, deepe debts are sharpe goads, and prick shreawd∣ly: threatening not onely povertie and shame, but also terrifying the bodies of free men with hard imprisonment, little ease, and yrons. Now there were exceeding many farre indebt (a thing [unspec H] most daungerous and hurtfull to mens state) even of the richer sort, by reason of their great ex∣penses destraied in building. The warre therefore of the Volscians, which was itselfe of great im∣portance, but much more, in regard of the Latines and Hernickes rebellion withall, was in shew pretended, as a cause to seeke for to have a more soveraigne and absolute power to governe the State: but in truth, these new dessignements and plots of Manlius, rather than the warre, forced the Senate to create a Dictatour. And A. Cornelius Cossus being created, nominated for his Ge∣nerall of horse, T. Quintius Capitolinus. The Dictatour, albeit he saw a greater bickering toward, at home than abroad, yet (were it that the warre required some speedie expedition, or because by victorie and triumph, hee thought to make his Dictatourship more mightie and powerfull) hee tooke musters, and set forward into the Pomptine land, into which parts hee had intelligence, [unspec I] that the Volscians had proclaimed their forces, to repaire.

I doubt not,* 1.19 but they that read in so many bookes alreadie, of these continuall warresfought with the Volscians, besides their tedious satietie of reading, will muse also at this (which to my selfe was likewise a wonder, when I perused the writers that lived neere about the times of these acts) how these Volscians and Aequians, so often vanquished and diffeited, were furnished with supplie of souldiours to maintaine their warres. But seeing by the auncient Chroniclers it hath been overpassed with silence, what should I alleadge, but only mine owne opinion and bare con∣jecture, which every man hath libertie to put in for himselfe? Likely it is, that either between the times of warres (as now we see in the Romane musters) they used to breed up one supplie under another, of the younger sort, to the maintenance and renuing so oftentimes of their war: or that [unspec K] their armies were not alwaies levied out of the same States, albeit the warres go under thename of one and the selfesame nation: or that those countries yeelded in those daies an infinit number of freemen, which now are well neare wast and defart, but for some Romane slaves, which keepe those parts yet from being void and dispeopled, as having but a very small feminarie, or none at all, left, of serviceable souldiours.

Certes, the Volscians armie, as all authors agree, was very great at this time: albeit of late daies by the leading and conduct of Camillus they were fore weakened, and their strength much aba∣ted. Besides, there were with them in field, the Latines and Hernickes, some of the Circeians, and other Coloners from Velitrae. The Romane Dictatour having that day pitched his campe, and the next morrow come abroad with happie tokens of good speed from the Birds: having also [unspec L] slaine a sacrifice, and procured thereby the favour and grace of the gods, in joyous manner she∣wed himselfe unto his souldiors: who according as they were commaunded, were readie early in the morning,* 1.20 by breake of day in armes, attending the sound of trumpet for battaile. The day is ours (quoth hee) my valorous souldiours, if either the gods or their Prophets can foretell future events.

Therefore as resolute men of assured hope, and such as shall encounter with far meaner than ourselves, pitch we our javelins downe at our feet, and draw our swords only. Neither would I have you to run out of the maine battell, and to give the charge, but to keepe your ground, to stand stedfast, and abide the first shocke of the enemie. And when they have spent their volie of shot in vaine, and shall with full feese come upon you as you stand, then brandish your swords, and let them glitter in their eies, and thinke everie man of the gods, that they will helpe the Ro∣manes. [unspec M] The gods I say, which in happie houre, by the luckie approbation of their Birds, have sent us into the field to fight. And as for you, ô Quintius, keepe your horsemen close to∣gether, marking advisedly the first beginning of the skirmish: and when you see the battailes buckle together pell mell, and come to handstrokes, whiles they are busied and occupied one

[unspec A] way, fright them another way with your horsemen, ride among their ranks as they fight, and breake their arraies.

Thus fought both horse and foot according to his direction. And as the legions wanted not a worthie captaine, no more missed the captaine of happie speed. The multitude of the enemies trusting upon nothing but their owne number, which they mea∣sured and compared together onely by their eie, intervewing both the one armie and the other, rashy gave battaile, and as rashly gave over againe. In shout onely and shot shewing themselves hot & eger at the first encounter: but were not able to abide the sword fight, the closing together foot to foote, and the firie countenance of their enemies, which for the verie heat of their cou∣rage, shined and glistered fully in their eies. So the forefront being put backe, a seare came upon them likewise, that stood behind for supply, and withall, the horsemen for their parts set to, [unspec B] and fought most terriblie. Wherupon the ranks ofthe enemies in sundrie places were broken, and all set out of order, so as their battailons seemed to flote & wave up & down to and fro, in sus∣pence whether to fight or flie. Afterwards, when they saw the formost smitten downe and slaine, and everie one thought no other but his own turne was next to be killed, they turned their backs and fled. The Romans came forward still and chased them. And so long as they went their way ar∣med & thick hudled together, it was the footmens work to pursue them: but when it was percei∣ved once, that they flong away their weapons on all hands, & that the enemies armie fled disper∣sed all abroad in the fields: then were the troupes of horsmen set out after them, with this caveat and charge, to make no stay and forlet the time, by killing them one by one, and so to give the maine multitude of them in the meane while sufficient respite to escape: but that they should [unspec C] content themselves, only to let flie some shot amongst them, and by scaring them to hinder their running: and when they were ridden beyond, to crosse upon them and stay them, untill the foot∣men might overtake them, sley them down right & make an hand of them clean. Thus fled they, and thus were they followed in chace untill night.* 1.21 The verie same day was the Volscians campe taken and ransaked, and the whole pillage, besids the bodies of free men, was given unto the sol∣diours. The greatest part of the prisoners were Hernicks and Latines: and those not of the com∣mon sort, and such as might be thought to have served for pay: but there were found among them certaine yoong gentlemen of good marke, a plaine proofe and evidence, that the Volsci∣an enemies had aid from thence by the publike and generall warrant of the State. There were knowne also to be among them some of the Circeians, yea and certain of the Veliterne colonie [unspec D] likewise. All of them were sent to Rome. Where being examined before the chiefeof the Sena∣tours, they confessed everie one in plame termes, the revolting of their owne nation, like as they had before bewraied it unto the Dictatour. The Dictator still kept his forces together within the standing campe, making no doubt, but that the rulers and Senatours of Rome would determine to warre upon those countries.

But even at that time a greater heape of troubles which arose at home, caused him to be sent for to Rome, by occasion of a sedition which grew daily more and more: and by reason of the author therof (a man of qualitie and note) was more feared than any usually had been afore time. For now by this, had M. Manlius not by speeches onely, but by plaine deeds also, (which in out∣ward shew seemed popular and plausible) shewed evidently upon what troublesome and tumul∣tuous [unspec E] spirit all proceeded. For seeing upon a time a Centurion, of good worth for his service in warre, condemned in an action of debt, and upon an execution of judgement caried to prison: he in the mids of the Forum, came running unto him with a rout and crew of his followers and retinue, laid hand on him, and tooke him perforce from the officers: and after he had given our some words alowd touching the pride of the Senators, the crueltie of the usurers, the calamities of the Commons, the valour and present distresse of the partie; Marrie then (quoth hee) have I done a great deed, to no purpose, in saving the Capitoll and the Keepe with this right hand of mine, if I could abide to see my fellow soldiour (as if he were taken prisoner of the Gaules by way of conquest) had away into bondage and captivitie, and laid up fast in gives and fetters. And therwith openlie in sight of all the people paid the whole debt downe right on the naile, unto the [unspec F] creditour:* 1.22 and so after the usuall and solemne ceremonie by a brasen peece of coine and the bal∣lance, he set him at libertie out of the creditour his hands, and let him go at large.

Who praied heartily to God and man, for to requite accordingly M. Manlius his onely deliverer, and the verie patron and protectour of the Commons of Rome. And when he was once gotten into that unrulie and seditious throng, hee presently himselfe set all on a hurrie, shewing the scarres

of his wounds received in the Veientians and Gaules warres, and in other services one after ano∣ther [unspec G] saying, that whiles he thus followed solderie, and rebuilded his house that was destroied, he became indebted, and that so deeply (by reason that the interest alwaies overgrew the principall which he by that meanes had paid and paid againe) that he was notable to creepe out of the usu∣ters booke, but was plunged therin over head and eares. And now behold (quoth hee) by the one∣lie goodnesse of M. Manlius, I have the libertie againe to see the light of the funne, to behold the Common place, to looke my neighbours and fellow citizens in the face: at his hands I acknow∣ledge to have received all the benefits that mine owne parents could give me: unto him I vow whatsoever in me is left, and in his quarrell to spend that little life and blood which remaineth in my bodie: and in one word looke what priviledge I may injoy in right of my countrie, and in the [unspec H] communion of the gods, publike orprivate, the same do I impart and communicate with that one man.

By these speeches the Commons were set on, and pricked forward mightily, as wholly devoted unto one person; and who but Manlius now in everie mans mouth? And presently in the nick he entred into another action that tended more effectually to marre all quite, and to set everie thing out of order. His land in the territorie of Veij, which was the chiese and capitall Manour of his inheritance, even the fairest flower of his garland, he set upon sale, causing it openly to be cried; and said withall, I will not ô Quirites, so long as I have one foot of ground, or any thing else left, see one of you condemned and upon execution caried to prison. This set them so a flote, that they were readie, as it seemed, to follow him as the onely protectour of their liberties, in any action, were it right or wrong, they cared not which way, all was one with them. Besides at home in his owne house, he spared not to cast out slaunderous speeches against the Senatours [unspec I] as if he had beene at the open Crosse, making Orations.

Amongst which, without all regard whe∣ther he spake true or false, he let fall these words, That the Senatours kept in hucker mucker cer∣taine hidden treasures of the Gaules gold, and were not now contented to hold in possession the common grounds, but they would also embezle the treasure publicke, which if it came abroad, the Commons might soone be acquit and discharged of their debts.

This gap being once laid o••en, and this light given the people, they thought (ye may be sure) an unworthie indignitie, that when there was gold to be levied for redemption of the cittie out of the Gaules hands, it then should be gathered by a generall contribution of all: and the same gold, now recovered from the enemies, should be as a prey in the clutches of a few. Therfore they followed instantly upon him and were verie earnest to know, where so great a masse of mony and stollen good was hidden. But [unspec K] when he posted them off, and said he would in due time disclose all: they were not content, but setting all other matters apart, their whole care was emploied about this busines, and nothing else. So as it plainly appeared that neither he should reape a meane thanke if he reported a truth, nor incurre a small offence and displeasure, in case he told a false tale.

Things hanging thus in these doubtfull termes, the Dictatour who was sent for, returned from the armie into the cittie. The next day he assembled the Senate: and after he had throughly founded and felt the minds of them, that were there met, he commaunded the Senatours not to depart from him: and assisted as he was with that companie, he caused the yvorie chaire of estare to be set in the Comitium or common hall, and sent a serjeant for M. Manlius. Who being thus [unspec L] peremptori••y summoned by the Dictatours expresse commaundement, gave warning by a to∣ken to his complices and favourites, that there was a broile and fraie toward: and with a mightie retinue of his followers, he presented himselfe before the Tribunal. On the one side, stood the Se∣natour, on the other the Commons: either part beholding their captaine, as it were in a pight field ready to joine battaile.* 1.23

Then after silence made, Would to God (quoth the Dictatour unto Manlius) I •• the Senators of Rome, might in all other things forr as well with the Commons, as I am assured, we shall agree all together about thee, & the matter which I shal aske and demand of thee. I see thou hast put the citie in some good hope, that by the Gauls treasure which the prin∣cipall & chiefe of the Senators detain with them secretly hidden, all men may keepe their credit, and fully pay and discharge their debts. Which I for my part, so God me helpe, am so farre from h••ndering, that contraiwise I would exhort thee ô M. Manlius, to ease the Commons of Rome [unspec M] of the ••••••ers booke: to discover these fellowes and make them knowne, that gape so greedily af∣ter the common treasure, and to disappoint them, & turne them out of this their privie bootie. Which if thou doe not effect, either for that thy selfe wouldest have a sliece with them, or els because it is but a forged tale that thou hast made of thine own fingers ends, I will not faile, but

[unspec A] commit thee toward, and suffer no longer the multitude upon a vaine and deceiptfull hope, thus by thee to be abused and disquieted.* 1.24 To this, Manlius made answere and said. I was nothing deceived but wist well enough, that a Dictatour was created not against the Volscians, who are enemies (forsooth) so oft as our great Masters thinke it for their purpose: nor against the Latines and Hernicks, whom they drive and provoke to rebellion by false & forged surmises: but against my selfe and the Commons of Rome. For now I see well, that the Dictator professeth to main∣taine and beare out the Vsurers against the Commons: and that against my selfe, for the favour that the multitude beareth unto me, there is matter devised to charge me withall, and to pro∣cure my utter ruine and overthrow. Doth it offend and grieve you. in deed, ô A. Cornelius, and you my Lords of the Senat, that the people thus stand about me on every side? Why doe not ye [unspec B] every man for his part, by your good deserts devide asunder this companie, and draw them away with you from me? Namely, by your mediation and intercession, by giving your word for them, by ridding out of gives and prison your fellow cittizens, by saving them that are condemned, from being awarded to the thraldome of their creditours, and out of the overplus and superflui∣tie of your own living and goods, by relieving their present neede, and supplying their necessi∣ties? But what meane I to persuade you to forgo anything of your owne, and bestowe it upon them? Take another course with them, and make them another offer. Doe but deduct our of the principall debt, that which hath been paied, for consideration of the loane. You shall soone see that my retinue will make no greater shew, than any other mans els. But why am I the onely man so carefull of the cittizens and people? Certes, I can make no better answere hereunto, than [unspec C] if one should aske me, wherfore I alone saved the Capitoll and the Cliffe? As I then yeelded my helping hand to all in generall, so will I now to my power relieve each one in particular. For as touching the treasure of the Gaules: the thing in it selfe being easie, this demaund of yours ma∣keth hard and difficult. For what neede you aske me that which you know alreadie your selves? Why lay you not that open which is in your secret bosome, rather than to have it sifted & boul∣ted out? but that there is some privie juggling, some cunning practise and packing therein? The more ye would seeme to have your leigerdemaine to be sought into and detected: so much the more, I feare me, ye will hide it even from the eies of those that are watchfull and quickfighted. And therfore am not I to be forced to reveale and shew where your stollen goods are: but you would be made, if you were well served, to bring them abroad into the view of the world. At [unspec D] these words, the Dictatour commanded him to leave off these foolish flimflams & trifling shifts: urging him either to go through with his challenge and prove it true: or if he could not justifie it, to confesse that he had falsely slandered and wrongfully charged the Senat, and sought to bring upon them the ill will and hatred of men, for a vaine surmise and suspition of theeverie.

But as he stoutly inferred and replied againe, that he would not speake at the pleasure of his enemies, not owed them any such service: he commanded him to be had away to prison & kept in bonds.

And as he was apprehended by the Officer,* 1.25 ô Iupiter (qd.he) Optimus Maximus, ô Iuno Queene of heaven, ô Minerva, with other gods and goddesses, that inhabit the Capitoll and the Ca∣stle; Suffer ye your Knight and Defender, to be thus tugged, misused, and evill entreated by his adversaries? And shall this right hand wherwith I defeated the Gaules, & drave them from your [unspec E] chappels and shrines, be now pinnioned and manacled? There was no one man there, that saw & heard him, who could indure this indignitie.

But this cittie, as most patient of all other citties to abide any just, righteous & lawfull commandement of the magistrate, contained her selfe and was content in some cases to be overruled: so far forth, that against the authoritie & absolute power of the Dictatour, neither the Tribunes of the Commons, nor the Commons themselves, durst either cast up their eies to looke awry, or once open their mouthes. But after Manlius was com∣mitted, it was for certaine knowne, that a great sort of the Commoners, changed their weede and put on their worst apparell and mourning array: many a man let his head and beard grow long, yea and a number of them with sad and heavie cheere, kept commonly about the Goale dore.

[unspec F] Now when the Dictator triumphed over the Volscians, his triumph bred him more hatred and displeasure than honour and glorie: for it is commonly spoken, that he got it at home and not abroad, and triumphed over a cittizen not over an enemie: and this only wanted, (say they) to make up his pride to the ful, that Manlius was not led before his chariot. Wherupon ther was like to grow much scandale, and very sedition. For the appeasing and mitigation whereof, the Se∣nate

upon a sodaine, without any motion made, of themselves became bountifull, and assigned [unspec G] 2000.* 1.26 citizens of Rome to be sent to Satricum to inhabit as a Colonie. And to every man was set out two acres & an halfe of land a peice. Which the Commoners construed to be a matter of nothing, a smal boon bestowed upon a few, the very hire & reward for betraying Manlius. So that this proved a mischiefe for a remedie: and by this salve, the sore rather festered and rankled, than healed up, and the sedition thereby fretted more and more. For now the crewe of Manlius his followers made shew of greater mourning and heavinesse, in their vile clothes and sad counte∣nance, after the guise of persons accused during the time of their troubles. And when the feare and terrour was once overblowne, by reason that the Dictatour after his triumph resigned up his authoritie,* 1.27 then folks hearts were set at libertie and their tongues walked at will. Some were heard in open audience to upbraid the multitude and cast in their teeth, That it was their fashi∣ons [unspec H] alwaies to lift up and advance their Protectours and Defenders into high places, and after∣wards, in the very pitch of danger and point of downfall, to forsake and leave them destitute.

Thus was Sp. Cassius served, that sollicited the Commons to the division of lands: thus was Sp. Melius overthrowne, that put his hand to his purse, and at his own proper charges and expense, kept ex∣treame famine from the hungrie chawes of the poore cittizens. Semblably, M. Manlius ende∣vouring to deliver a great part of the cittie (drowned as it were and overwhelmed in debt) and to enlarge them and set them abroad at libertie, now for his paines is betraied unto his deadly ene∣mies: so that the Commons doe feed and franke up, even for the shambles and butchers knife the fautors and maintainers of their weale and libertie. And ought in deed (say they) a Noble man, that sometimes had been Consull, thus to be misused, if he answered not to the good li∣king [unspec I] and pleasure of the Dictatour? Suppose, he had overreached and made a lie afore, and so had not a present and readie answere at the time: was there ever any servant and slave, for leasing cast in prison and laid up in yrons? And how could they forget that night, which was like to have been the last night that ever the Romanes should have seene: that fatall night of their finall de∣struction for ever? Or how could they chuse, but have still in their eie the armie of the Gaules, clambring up the Cliffe Tarpeia? and how M. Manlius in person, so bravely beseene in his ar∣mour, all sweating, all bleeding, rescued and saved Iupiter himselfe in a manner out of the ene∣mies hands? What? Did they thinke that with halfe-pound measures of wheat meale, they had su••••iciently recompensed the Saviour of their countrie? And whom they had well neare cano∣nized amongst the holie hallowes of heaven, or at leastwise by his newe addition of * 1.28surname [unspec K] made equal to Iupiter Capitolinus, was it well done to suffer him, imprisoned in chaines, lying in a darke dungeon, to draw his lively breath at the pleasure of the hangman? Was he alone able to succour you all, and are ye all not able to helpe him alone?

Thus ceased not the multitude to exclaime and make their plaints, & would not depart from that place, no not all the night long, but threatned to breake the prison by force. Vntill such time as they got that remitted, which otherwise they would have wrested, and Manlius by an act of the Senate was released out of pri∣son and enlarged. Whereby the mutinie was never the more ended, but rather a Captaine given them to maintaine the Sedition.

About the same time the Latines and Hernicks, the inhabitants also of the Colonie Circeia, and they of Velitre, who came to excuse themselves for the Volscian war, wherin they were char∣ged [unspec L] to have had their hands, and required to have the captives delivered, for to proceed against them, according to their owne lawes, had a heavie answere. But the Coloners received the shar∣per check and rebuke, because they being Romane citizens, were entred into that wicked plot and abominable action, to combine against their native countrie. And they were not only deni∣ed their prisoners, but also (wherin the Rom. dealt more favourably with the rest that were their Allies) were warned and commanded in the name of the Senat, to avoid and that with speede out of the cittie, from the sight and presence of the people of Rome; for feare least the privi∣ledge of Embassage, provided for the securitie and safe conduct of forrainers and not of citti∣zens, should not serve to protect them. Now when the Sedition of Manlius was set on foote againe, somewhat before the end of the yeare the great assembly was holden for the Election [unspec M] of Magistrates: wherein there were created Tribunes in Consuls authoritie Serg. Cornelius Ma∣luginensis the second time. P. Valerius Potitas the second time. M. Furius Camillus the fifth time. Ser. Sulpitius Rufsus the second time, C. Papyrius Crassus, T. Quintius Cincinnatus the second time, all of Senatours calling.

[unspec A] In the beginning of this year, peace they had with forrain nations; a matter very commodious both for the Senat and the Com. For the Com. in this regard, that being not called away by any musters, they had some good hope (especially having so mighty a champion) to be rid at once for ever of usurie. For the Senators again, because their minds being not distracted by any fear from abroad, might attend about curing & healing the intestine maladies at home. When both parts therfore were now more sharp set, & eagerly bent, they thoght out of hand to trie what would be done, & to make either a shaft or a bolt of it. Manlius calling the Com. to his house, devised with the principal heads of them both day and night, to bring in a change and alteration of the State: and fuller of stomacke, anger and gaule he was now a good deale than aforetime. Netled he was, the rather by his late disgrace and shame, who never before had ben touched in credit, nor tasted [unspec B] of any reproch &contumelie. Heart he took unto him, for that the Dict. durst not execute that ri∣gor against him, which Cincinnatus Quintius had extended upon Sp. Melius: and it seemed unto him, that not only the Dict. sought to wind himself out, & in resigning up his room, to avoid the of∣fence given by his imprisonment; but also that the very Senat was not able to endure the maner of proceeding. With these imaginations being pussed up & galled too, he failed not withall to prick forward and exasperat the minds of the Com. who of themselves alreadie, were kindled and set on fire.* 1.29 And with these and such like speeches he entertained them. How long (quoth he) I pray you; wil ye be ignorant, and not know what ye may do, and what power ye have? A thing that nature it selfe would not have so much as the very dumbe beasts, but to understand. Doe but count how many you are in number your selves, and how few adversaries ye have against you.

If ye were but [unspec C] one to one, yet (I would thinke) you should more eagerly strive for to maintain your libertie, than they, to set up their lordship. For, look how many favourites ye have ben, following and courting one patrone, so many shall ye now be opposed to one enemie. Make but shew only of war, ye shall have peace. Let them see you once readie to make head and offer violence, soone will they yeeld and part with their right. Either yee must adventure, all jointly together to doe somewhat, or else make account each one, to abide and suffer all. How long will yee stand looking from every side upon me? I for my part, surely, wil not faile any one of you. Look yee then to it, that fortune faile not me. I, even I, that was your redeemer and deliverer, was all at once (when it pleased mine ene∣mies) taken downe and made no bodie. And yee, all of you, saw him led to prison, who saved eve∣ry one of you from prison. If happily those mine enemies should attempt to do me more spight, [unspec D] Where am I then? and what were I best to trust unto? Should I looke for that end that Cassius and Melius came unto? Yee doe well to signifie how you dread the osse, and wish the contrarie. And the gods forfend it should so come to passe. But look not that ever they should come down from heaven to protect mee. That mind they must give you, to preserve mee from so hard a hap, like as they gave me a resolute heart, both in mine armour to save you from barbarous enemies, and in my gowne to defend you from prowd cittizens. Is there so little courage in you (so migh∣tie a people otherwise) as to thinke it sufficient, and to stand contented, if you may bee backed onely, and meet with some helpe against your enemies; and to know no other skusting with your adversaries (the Senators) but wherein you suffer your selves to be commanded in the end? This basenesse commeth not to you by kind. By use and custome onely, you are become their vassals [unspec E] and subjects. For what is the cause yee are so courageous against your enemies abroad, that yee think it meet and reason to rule and govern them? No other in truth but this, because with them you have beene ever wont to strive for soveraignetie, whereas against these, yee have beene used rather, to make some slight prouse and triall what you may doe by your libertie, than to doe your best & to put your selves forth for to maintaine it and extend it to the most. And yet what man∣ner of chiefetaines soever ye have met withall to lead you, and how soever affected ye have beene your selves, obtained yee have hitherto all things that yee shot at, were they never so great: Such was your might, or such was your felicitie. Wherefore now it is high time to give the adventure of greater matters also. Make but triall onelie of your owne good fortune, and of my selfe, whom I hope he have had happie experience of alreadie: with lesse adoe shall ye be provided of one [unspec F] to overrule and commaund the Senatours, than ye have beene hitherto of those, that were to re∣sist onely their imperious government. Downe we must with these Dictatorships and Consul∣ships both, and lay them levell with the ground: that the comminaltie of Rome may once be aloft, and beare up the head. Bestirre your selves therefore, and play the men. Hinder processe and course of law for actions of debt. I professe my selfe a Patrone of the Commons, which name

my care over you, my faithfulnesse to you, hath indued me with.

And if you please to entitle your [unspec G] leader and captaine, with a more glorious * 1.30stile of honour and majestie, ye shall find it more po∣tent and availeable to effect that which you long for and desire.* 1.31 And so from that time forward, began some practise to set up the governement of a king: But neither who were the agents in this action, nor to what tearmes these plots proceeded, is it plainely ynough recorded. But on the other side, the Senatours sat in counsell, and debated about the Secession and secret meeting of the Commons in the privat house of Manlius, and that house, which stood (as it fell out) up∣on the castle hill: likewise of that imminent engine and fabricke, devised for the overthrow of the present libertie. Many were of opinion, and spake it alowd, That there was need of a Sirvilius H••l••, who not by commaunding a publicke enemie of the State to prison, would provoke him and make him more eager; but by dispatching of one wicked member out of the way, & cutting [unspec H] him oft, might end this intestine and civile warre. But they came downe at length, and grew to a resolution, in words milder, yet in deed and effect all one, THAT THE MAGISTRATS SHOULD HAVE A CAREFULL EIE,* 1.32 THAT BY THESE MISCHEEVOUS PLOTS AND PRACTISES OF MAR. MANLIUS, THE COMMONVVEALE INCURRED NO DAMMAGE AND HURT. Then the Tribunes in Consuls authoritie, and the other Tribunes of the Commons (for even they also seeing, that in the losse of the publicke libertie of all, their power likewise should come to an end, had yeelded to be advised and ruled by the Senate) laid all their heads together, and consulted what course was best to bee taken. When as no man could be thinke of any way, but plaine violence and bloudshead (a peece of worke in all appearance, of great adventure & doubt∣full hazard) then M. Menenuss, and Q. Publius, two Tribunes of the Commons stepped forth [unspec I] and said:* 1.33 What meane we to make that, a quarrell between the Senators and Commons, which the whole bodie united of the cittie, indeed should undertake against so dangerous and pestilent a member?

Why trouble wee our selves to set upon him and the Commons with him, whome by the meanes of the very Commons themselves, it were the safer course, and lesse offensive to a••i••ile? that being surcharged and overweighed with his owne power whereupon he presumeth, he may fall down•• and take his overthrow. Wee are fully minded to arrest him, to convent him judicially, and call him to his answere. Nothing is lesse popular, and more odious to the people, than to heare of kings government againe. The multitude shall not so soon see and perceive, that our quarrell is not with them, but that they shall become his competent Iudges, and passe upon him, who now are his advocates: also, that his accusers from out of the Commons, shall behold [unspec K] one of the Nobilitie to hold up his hand at the barre, & the enditement framed, upon the crime of usurping the kingdome: but (be yee sure of it) they will tender and favour the faire looks and person of no man, before the cause of their owne free estate.

When all the house liked well, and allowed of this advise and ouverture, they made no more ado but served Manlius with processe to answere at a day appointed. Which was not so soone done, but the Commons at the very first, began to storme and be enraged, especially when they saw the accused man, during his trouble so rufully arra••ed, accompanied with none of the Senators, nor so much as one of his kindred and affinitie, no nor his very brethren Au and T. Manlius. A thing before that day never seene nor knowne, but that in so great a danger as this was, the neerest kinsfolke in bloud, did change their weed. For even when Ap. Claudius was committed and imprisoned, C. Claudius his adversarie, [unspec L] yea, and the whole linage and name of the Claudij, were mournefully clad, and poorely apparel∣led. Now surely (say they) it is a very compact amongst them all, that this popular man, so graci∣ous and welbeloved, should be confounded and overthrowne, because hee was the first that ever fell away from the Senatours to the Commons. When the day was come of his arraignement, I can find in no author, what was objected against the prisoner by his accusers, directly tending to prove the crime of aspiring to a kingdome, but onely the conventicles of the multitude, certain seditious words, his overmuch largesse, and his forged surmise and false information of the gold. I doubt not but there was matter of great importance, urged and enforced against him, seeing that the Commons delay in proceeding to his condemnation, was not long of his cause, but oc∣casioned by the place onely.* 1.34 This one thing seemeth worthie to be noted, and for all mens lear∣ning, [unspec M] that how notable and how great soever his honor, worship, & commendable parts were; the soule and cursed desire of tyrannicall rule, made not onely unpleasant and without grace, but also odious and detestable in the eies of the people. He brought forth, as it is reported, welneere foure hundred men, whome hee had laid out monte for gratts, and without any interest or consi∣deration:

[unspec A] those whose goods he saved from port sale, and kept from the bondage of their credi∣tours, after they were condemned. O••er and besides; he not onely reckoned up, but shewed al∣so in open sight, the honourable testimonies of his service in the warres: as the spoiles of his enemies by him slaine and disarmed, to the number of 30: giftes bestowed upon him by Generals in way of reward 40: amongst which were two goodly * 1.35murall garlands for scaling and entering upon the wals first: eight * 1.36civick coronets for saving the lives of citizens in danger. Moreover he presented there in place, the parties themselves in person, whom he had rescued out of the ene∣mies hands: and amongst them he nomiminated C. Serviltus at that instant Generall of the horsemen, and now absent. And when he had rehearsed his noble feats of armes; and amplifi∣ed them according to the height of their worthin a most glorious and eloquent Oration, as one [unspec B] whose words were sutable and answerable to his deeds: at the last he stript his breast bare, and shewed the scarres there remaining of wounds received in the warres: and ever and anone loo∣king to the Capitoll, eftsoones he called aloud upon Iupiter and the other gods, to helpe him now in this extremitie and peril of his state: and praied that the same mind which they had given him to defend the Capitoll cliffe, and even to the safegard of the people of Rome, they would vouchsafe the same people, in this distresse of his wofull calamitie: beseeching them both all and some, to looke up to the cliffe, and to the Capitoll, to turne themselves toward the gods there, an••so to proceed to judgement of him. All the whiles the people were cited and called by their Centuries, and the prisoner stretched forth his hands, and converted his praiers from men to the Gods; the Tribunes evidently saw, that unlesse they freed the eies of the people from [unspec C] beholding the memoriall of so great a desart, it would never be that so long as their mindes were this forestalled and possessed with that benefit of his, they would find the enditement, were it ne∣ver so true. So the matter being put off and deferred to another day the people were summoned to assemble in the grove Petelinus, without the gate Flumentana, from whence they might not have a sight of the Capitoll. There the accusation prevailed more than compassion, and the mat∣ter went against him: and so with hard and obdurat hearts, they pronounced a heavie and dolo∣rous sentence, and which the verie judges themselves had in horror. Some there be that say there were Duumvirs ordained for the purpose, to make inquisition and sit upon this treason against the State. Thus being condemned, the Tribunes caused him to be throwne headlong downe the rocke Tarpeia. Which place was the selfe same that yeelded to that one man a monument and [unspec D] memoriall both of singular glorie, and also of extreame punishment and ignominious death. After his death there remained two infamous markes behind him of shame: the one publicke, occasioned by his dwelling house. For wheras it was situate, where now the chappell and work∣house, or mint-house of Moneta standeth, an Act was proposed unto the people, That none of the Senatours linage should dwell on the cliffe or Capitoll mount. The other proceeding more pro∣perly from his owne line and kinred: For that by a generall decree of the house of Manlij it was provided, That none of that familie and race should ever after beare the name of M. Man∣lius. This was the end of him, who, but that he was borne in a free cittie, had beene a right wor∣thie and renowned man.

But the people being now past all danger from him, calling to mind and considering without [unspec E] all affection, his vertues as they were, found a misse of him shorly after. Yea and for the pesti∣lence also which ensued soone upon, for that there could be no causes knowne of so great mor∣talitie, was imagined of many a man, to have growne upon the execution of Manlius: arguing thus, That the Capitoll was polluted with the blood of the saviour therof: and the gods tooke no delight and pleasure to have (as it were) presented unto their eies, the punishment of that man, by whose meanes their temples had beene delivered out of the hands of the enemies. Vpon this plague and scarcitie of corne withall, and the common brute that spread abroad both of the one and the other, there ensued the yeare following many warres, whenas L. Valerius the fourth time, A. Manlius the third time, Ser. Sulpitius the third time, L. Lucretius, L. Atmylius the third time, and M. Trebonius were Tribunes Militarie in Consuls authoritie. For besides the Volscians, who [unspec F] by destinie were appointed for ever in a manner to busie and keepe occupied the Romane soldi∣ours; besides the Colonies Circcia and Velitre, which a long time were about to rebell; besides Latium, that stood in doubtfull termes and was suspected, the Lanuvines also, who had beene a most fast and Ioiall cittie, all of a suddaine rose and became new enemies. The LL. of the Se∣nate supposing all this grew upon contempt, for that the revolting of the Veliternes, who were

their naturall citizens, had so long time escaped punishment, decreed with all speed to move the [unspec G] people to denounce and proclaime open warre against them. And to the end that the Com∣mons might be more forward in this Militarie service, they created certaine Quinqueviri for the division of the Pomptine lands:* 1.37 and Triumvir•• for the planting of a colonie at Nepet. Then they propounded unto the people, that they would appoint and determine of the warre to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And notwithstanding the Tribunes of the Com.labored earnestly, but all in vaine, to dis∣si••••de, yet the tribes throughout generally grantedit, and gave their voices for warre. All that yeare passed in preparations onely, but no armie set forth by reason of the plague: which pro∣tracting of time and long delay, gave the inhabitants of the Colonies respite to sue unto the Senate for peace. Many of them were inclined and stood thus affected, to send a solemne embas∣sage [unspec H] with humble supplication to Rome: but that (as commonly it falleth out) the publicke pe∣rill was entangled and interessed with the jeoperdie of some private persons: and the authors of the backsliding and revolt from the Romans, fearing least they alone should beare all the blame and be delivered up as a sacrifice to satisfie the wrath of the Romanes, turned away cleane and ali∣enated the Colonies from all consultation of seeking for peace. And not onely in their counsell house was this Embassage then crossed, but many of the Commons also they excited to in∣vade the territories of Rome, to drive booties, and make spoile. This new wrong by them of∣fered, cleane put them by all hope of peace. In that yeare was the first rumour raised, concerning the rebellion also of the Prenestines. And when the Tusculans, Gabines, & Lavicanes, into whose marches they had made inrodes, complained unto the Senate, and laid much matter against them, they received at their hands so calme and cold an answere, that it seemed they gave lesse [unspec I] credit to their complaints, because these were not willing they should proove true.

The yeare following, Sp. and L. Papyrius, new Tribunes Militarie with Consuls authoritie, led the legions to Vei••••re, whose foure Colleagues, Ser. Cornelius Maluginensis the fourth ti••e, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, C. Sulpitius, L. Aemylius the fourth time, were left Tribunes behind for defence 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and for feare least they should heare some intelligence of new and fresh stirres out of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, where they suspected all would be nought. At Velitre they had the better hand of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 enemies: there they found more Prenestines well neere, that came to succour, than the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Coloners themselves. For the cittie was so neere at hand, that it both gave the enemies 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sooner, and yeelded them the onely place of safe refuge, after they were fled. 〈…〉〈…〉 forbare to assault the towne, as well in regard of the dangerous enterprise, as also [unspec K] 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they thought it not good to hold fight to the utter destruction of that Colonie. Letters 〈…〉〈…〉 to Rome with tidings of victorie, emplying more sharpe informations against 〈…〉〈…〉 than the Veliternes. So by an Act of the Senate and assent of the people, there 〈…〉〈…〉 warre against the Prenestines. Who in the yeare following joined with the Vol∣〈…〉〈…〉 by force wa•• Sa••••icum a Colonie of the people of Rome,* 1.38 notwithstanding it was 〈…〉〈…〉 defended by the townsmen even to the last. Where most beastly and cru∣•••• 〈…〉〈…〉 their victorie upon those that they tooke prisoners, and put them to the sword. 〈…〉〈…〉 tooke this in a verie ill part: and elected M. Furius Camillus Tribune Militarie the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 time: who had for his companions in office, A. and Lucius Posthumius Regillensis, L. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and L. Lucrcius, and M. Fabius Ambustus. [unspec L]

The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 warre was appointed to Camillus extraordinarily: and to assist him therein, it sell 〈◊〉〈◊〉 L. Fari•••• his lot, one of the State-Tribunes, not so much for the good of the Com∣monweale, as to minister unto his fellow all matter of honour and renowne: as well in publike, (〈◊〉〈◊〉 that he set all upright ag••ine, which by the rashnesse of Lucius was fallen downe) as also in private, for that out of his errour and misdoing, Marcus Furius, rather sought for thanks and love at his hands, than aimed at any vaine glorie to himselfe. Camillus was now farre growne and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 yeares and verie aged, and when in the assembly for Election, he was about to take the 〈…〉〈…〉 os o••h, for to excuse his feeble and crasie bodie, the people with one consent would not permit him. Howbeit for all his age, he caried a lively spirit & lustie courage with him full: his senses were all fresh & sound: and the late civill affaires had stirred him up and gave him [unspec M] anedge, who now had no great mind to manage martial exploits. So he gathered a power of four legions, consisting of 4000 a peece, & made proclamation that all his forces should be ready the next day, at the gate Esquilina, & then he put himself in his journy to Satricum. The enemie who had woon the Colony, nothing dismaid therat, & trusting in the number of his soldiors, wherein

[unspec A] he had the better by ods, expected and staied his comming there: And so soone as he understood that the Romanes approched, forthwith came into the field, minding without delay to put it to an hazard and trie it out: presuming, that the skill of the Romanes general, were hee never so sin∣gular (in whom their enemies only trusted) would litle or naught availe, in regard they were so few in number. The Romane armie was as hote as they, and one of their Generals as forward every way. And presently without any stay, had they tried the fortune of a battaile, but for the pollicie and rule of one man; who by holding off, and protracting time of fight, fought so to help himself through good order and skill. But so much the more the enemie urged still, and was more sharp set: so as now he not onely raunged his men before his owne campe in battell array, but also set forward into the mids of the field: and advancing himselfe with ensignes displaied, neer unto the [unspec B] trench and rampier of his enemies, made a prowd bravado and shew of his strength, whereupon he bare himselfe so confidently. This could the Romane souldiors hardly endure: and L. Furius one of the Tribunes Militarie, had more adoe by farre to digest and put up that at the enemies hand. And a venturous knight he was, both by reason of his youthfull yeares and naturall dispo∣sition: and also puffed up with hope of the multitude, which commonly taketh heart, and presu∣meth upon smallest grounds, and buildeth upon greatest uncertaine ties.

And the souldiours be∣ing of themselves alreadie hot ynough, he inflamed and set them more on fire, by elevating and making light of his fellowes reputation,* 1.39 in regard of his old age, the onely thing that hee could alleage: giving out ever and among, that wars were for young men, that mens hearts flourished and faded as their bodies did; which was seene in Camillus, who of a most valourous and forward [unspec C] warrior, was now become a draw-back and a temporiser, and one that would take his leasure: and he that was wont, so soon as he came to a place, with the first assault to win forts & strong towns, now within his mures and rampier sat stil and trifled out the time. And what hopes had he? Drea∣meth he, that either his owne power should encrease, or his enemies strength decrease? What occasion, what oportunitie of time, what place of vantage for ambush laid hee for? Tush, these policies and inventions of the good old man, are cold and clumsie, God wot. In faith, Camillus, as he hath lived long ynough, so hath he gained glorie ynough. To what purpose then (quoth hee) should we suffer the whole puissance of a cittie, which ought indeed to be immortall, for to age and waxe old with the bodie of one man, whom all men see to bee but mortall. With these and such like words he had drawne away the whole campe after him: and when from all parts there∣of, [unspec D] they called hard,* 1.40 and cried for battell; We are not able (quoth he) ô M. Furius, to keepe in and represse any longer the violence of our soldiours: and as for the pride of the enemie, whose cou∣rage by our delaies wee have encreased, and who insulteth over us, it is intollerable. Giveplace then, you that are but one man, and yeeld unto us al. Suffer your selfe to be overcome with reason and counsell, that you may sooner overcome by force and armes. Hereunto Camillus made an∣swere againe: What warres soever (quoth hee) unto this present day have by mine owne entire conduct,* 1.41 and sole direction been managed, neither can you nor the people of Rome denie, but that in them you never repented, either of my policie or happie successe. Now I know full well, that I have a companion joined with mee, in governement and rule of egall commission; for the prime and lustinesse of youth, much above me, & my better. And as to the armie, I have indeed [unspec E] been used ever to commaund, and not to be commaunded: but yet my fellows authoritie, I can∣not be against. Let him doe in gods name, what he thinketh good for the Commonweale, and Godspeed his hand. Onely in regard of mine old age I crave this favour, that I may not be set in the forefront: but for other devoirs, looke what an old man may or ought to doe in warre, there∣in surely I shall not faile. And this one thing would I crave at the hands of the immortall gods, that some notable mishap be fall not, to make my former counsell good and praiseworthie. But neither would men be ruled by his advise so profitable and wholesome, nor the gods vouchsafe to heare his praiers so holy aud devout.

Then Lucius Furius, the author and principall persuader of battell, setteth the vauntgard in array. Camillus hee fortifieth the regiments and squadrons for supplie in the rereward: but above all, he placeth a strong guard before the camp. Himselfe took [unspec F] up his standing on a higher place, to behold and marke the issue of another mans counsell. So soone as at the first brunt and encounter, they rustled and made a noise with their armour, the enemies for the nones (of policie, and not for fear) gave footing and lost ground. Now, there was behind them on their backe a pretie rising of an hill, betweene their campe and the battell: and by reason that they were well stored of men, they had left behind them in the campe certaine

strong companies armed and well appointed: with this instruction, that whiles both armies were [unspec G] hard in fight, and when their enemies should come neere their trench and rampier, they might ••allie out on a suddaine upon them. The Romanes following out of measure upon the enemies as they reculed, were drawne upon the disadvantage of the ground, and gave occasion and fit opportunitie unto the enemie to issue out of the camp upon them. So the terror returned upon the supposed victorers, by reason both of the newsupplies of the enemies, and also of the fall and descent of the hill: and forced the battaile of the Romanes to give back. The Volscians that charged them from out of the campe, and were fresh and lustie, pressed hard upon them: they al∣so that made as though they fled, began now to fight againe. The Romane souldiours forgetting now both their late lustinesse, and their auncient honour, retired not easily and softly in good order, but plaine turned their backes on all sides, fled amaine by heapes, and ran avie toward [unspec H] their owne campe.* 1.42

Whereat Camillus being by them that attended about his person, mounted upon a good courser, and with all the speed he could make, opposing the squadrons of the rere∣ward against the enemie: Is this (quoth he) the fight, you souldiours, that yee so called for? what God, what man can yee lay the weight on now? It was your rashnesse and foolehardinesse afore: and it is your dastardly cowardise now, and nothing els, that is the cause of all this. Followed yee have alreadie one Generall. Follow Camillus now a while: and as yee have beene alwaies wont by my leading, once more win the victorie. What looke you toward the hold and the campe? there is no comming thether, there is no being there for any of you without victorie.

At the first they were ashamed, and staied themselves from farther flight: but after that they saw once the ensigns wheele about, and the squadrons turne againe, they made head, and charged the enemie amain. [unspec I] And the Generall himselfe, a man renowmedfor so many triumphs, and besides, for his venera∣ble age so reverend, even amongst the formost ensignes, amid the greatest perils, & most distres∣ses, advanced forth in person. Hereupon every one for his part, set the better leg forward, provo∣ked his fellow withall, and encouraged one another, so as with a cheerefull and lively shout, the whole field rang againe. Neither was the other Tribune behind hand for his part: but being sent by his Colleague unto the horsemen (whiles he in the meane time marshalled againe the foote∣men in order) not by way of chiding (for what might he availe thereby, so long as hee was him∣selfe in fault as well as the rest?) but laying aside all lordly commaund, fell wholly to entreating, and besought them both all and some to quit themselves like men, and acquit him of the guilt and blame of that unluckie daies worke.* 1.43

Indeed (quoth hee) when my brother Camillus would [unspec K] not agree thereto, but expres••ely forbad, yet I chose rather to be partaker of the folly and rashnes of all, than the wisdome and sage advise of one. Camillus (come what will of it, speed you well, or speed you ill) ••eeth the glorie will be his: but I, unlesse the battell bee revived, shall take such part as you all, (a most miserable and pitious case) but the shame wil redound and light upon my head and none els.

Well, at length they agreed, and thought it best to abandon their horses to bestow them among the waving and disordered companies, and on foot to make head upon the ene∣mies. Thus they goe both together, as bravely minded with resolution, as they were richly and gorgeously armed. And in what part soever they saw the footmen most distressed, there wanted neither in the Generals nor in the souldiours, courage in the highest degree to fight it out lustily. Well was it seene by the happie event, that valourous endevors speed ever well. For the Volscians [unspec L] the same way that erewhile they made semblance of giving ground upon a counterfeit fear, now fled in good sadnesse as hard as they could.* 1.44 A great number both in the conflict, and after in the chase were slaine. As for the rest that remained in the campe, which presently at one brunt was woon, more of them were taken prisoners than killed. In the view and account taken of the cap∣tives, there were some of them knowne to be Tusculanes, who were shed apart from the rest, and brought before the State-Tribunes. And upon examination, confessed fla••ly, that they served by the publicke warrant of the cittie. Camillus herewith disquieted, for feare of warre from so neere neighbours, said hee would forthwith have those prisoners with him to Rome, that the Lords of the Senate might not be ignorant how the Tusculanes were revolted from their societie. In the meane while, his brother Tribune might, if he so pleased, have the regiment of the leaguer and [unspec M] the host. That daies worke had taught him now, not to preferre his own waies before the better counsell of another. And yet neither he himselfe, nor any man els in the armie, thought that Ca∣millus would quietly digest this fault of his, whereby the State of the Commonwealth was dri∣ven upon so dangerous a point of downefall. And as well in the hoast, as also at Rome, it was rise

[unspec A] and currant in everie mans mouth: that wheras the fight with the Volscians was variable, and the service doubtfull: For the ill speed, the discomfiture, and the running away, L. Furius was all in fault: but for the good successe, Camillus onely had all the honour.

When the captives were brought into the counsell house, and the Lords of the Senat were of opinion and determined warre against the Tusculans, and had laid the charge thereof upon Camillus, he requested to have an assistant joyned with him in commission: and being left to his own choise to take whom he would of all his companions in office, contrarie to all mens expe∣ctation, he chose L. Furius. By which moderation of his affections, and good carriage of him∣selfe, he both delaied the infamie of his colleague, and wan himselfe great glorie and commen∣dation. Yet for all this,* 1.45 proceeded not they to any warre with the Tusculans. For they by their [unspec B] constant observation of peace, kept off the violence of the Romanes, which by force of armes they had not been able. When the Romanes entred and invaded their territorie, they went not so much as out of those places that lay neare the high way, whereas the enemie marched: they forlet not the tilling of their grounds, but kept the gates of their cittie wide open, came forth so∣lemnly in their long gownes to meete with the LL. Generals in the waie, and brought victuals right courteously to serve the armie, as well out of the cittie as countrie. Camillus having pitched down his tents before the gates, and desirous to know, whether there were the same appearance of peace within the wals, as bare shew abroad in the countrie, entred the cittie: and seeing the dores standing open, the shop windowes up, all kinde of wares set out to sale upon the bulkes: the Crafts-men and Artisans busily every one occupied at his worke: the Gram••••er-schooles [unspec C] ringing againe with a chirme of schollers, learning and saying their lessons: the streetes full of women and children amongst the other common people going too & fro about their busines: he could perceive no where about him any thing that carried a resemblance of fearefull men no nor so much as of those that made any wonder at their comming in that warlike order. Thus cast he his eies into every corner, seeking where this warre should be. For there was not so much as any token to be seene, either of ought removed out of the way, or brought in place, upon this present occasion: but all in so setled quietnesse and peace, as if they had scarcely heard any inkling or rumour of hostilitie.* 1.46

Being therfore overcome with this patience and sufferance of the enemies, he caused their Senat to assemble, unto whom he spake in this wise: ye alone to this daie of all that I know, o??? Tusculanes, have found the only armour of proofe, & the forcible sense [unspec D] indeed, to save your selves and all ye have from the Romanes yre. Go your waies to Rome unto the Senat there. The Lords of the counsell will weigh and consider, whither ye deserved more punishment before, than pardon now. I will not forestall and pick my selfe a privat thanke for a publike benefit. At my hands ye shall have this favour and libertie, to speake for your selves and plead your own cause: as the Senat shall thinke good, so shall your speede of your suit. After that the Tusculans were come to Rome, and their Senat (who but a while afore had been faithfull Al∣lies and kept their allegeance) seene to stand waiting with heavie cheere and giving their atten∣dance at the entrie of the court and counsell chamber: the Lords of the Romane Senate, were presently moved thereat, and caused them forthwith to be called in, and received by way of hos∣pitalitie, more like than hostilitie.

Then the Dictatour of Tusculum made this speech & said: [unspec E] Right honourable Senatours,* 1.47 we against to encounter your Generals and Legions, armed and appointed as ye see us at this present stan∣ding in the porch of your counsell house.

This was our array, this was the habit of our Com∣mons, and alwaies shall be, unlesse at any time we shall put on armes for you and in your quarel. Thankes we yeeld to your captaines and to your armies, that they have beleeved rather their eies than their cares: and where they saw no hostilitie at all, there they offered none themselves. That peace which we have shewed and observed, the same crave we humbly still at the hands of your clemencie. Turne we beseech you from us your forces thither, where warre is to be found. And if we must needs make triall (by suffering ought) of your puissance and power bent against us, we will trie it surely without armour. This is our full resolution, God grant it prove as fortunate, [unspec F] as it is well meant and proceeding from a single heart. As for the trespasses, whereupon ye were moved to denounce warre against us: although it be bootlesse and to no purpose to disprove that by words, which by deed is alreadie proved: yet surely, were they never so true, we thinke verely, that without prejudice to our selves, we may safely confesse the same; since that we have so evi∣dently repented thereof. And for you, so long as you be worthie to have so full satisfaction made,

it skilleth not, what default or transgression be committed against you.

Thus much in effect [unspec G] spake the Tusculans. At the very instant they obtained peace: and not long after, the right of free burgeosie, to be made cittizens of Rome. So the Legions were withdrawen backe againe from Tusculum. Thus Camillus having won great honour by his pollicie and valour both, in the Volscian warre: by his happy successe in the journey of Tusculum: by his singular patience and cariage of himselfe, toward his companion in government, as well in the one place as the other, went out of his Magistracie: there being created Tribunes Militarie for the next yeare, L. Vale∣rius the fifth time, and Pub. Valerius the third time. C. Servilius the third time. Licinius Menenius the second time. P. Papyrius, Serg. Cornelius Maluginensis.

There was this yeare neede of Censors also, by reason especially of the doubtfull rumors that ran concerning debts: whiles of the one side the Tribunes of the Commons did aggravate the [unspec H] greatnesse therof, and made it seeme an odious matter: and they againe of the other side, did ele∣vate and made little of the same, for whom it was good & beneficiall, that the lent mony should be thought abroad, in danger of being lost: for that (say they) the debtours cautelously rather would not, than for abilitie could not, keepe their credite and make paiment. So there were crea∣ted Censors, C. Sulpitius Camerinus, Sp. Pohstumius Regillensis. And this matter now alreadie commensed, was broken off by the death of Posthumius, because it would have bred a scruple to chuse another Censor in the roome of him disceased. When Sulpitius therefore had resigned up his place, it fell out so that other new Censors upon some errour committed in their creati∣on, exercised not their office: and to chuse a third time they made a scruple, so spice conscien∣ced were they,* 1.48 as if the Gods were not well pleased with that office for that yeare.

But the Tri∣bunes [unspec I] would not endure this deluding of the Commons, but gave it forth that it was intollera∣ble: saying, That the Senat sought to avoid the exhibiting of publike records and bookes, which gave testimonie of the valuation of every mans substance to the worth: because they would not have the sums of debts to be seen and knowen; which might bewray and plainly shew, that one part of the cittie was even eaten up and devoured of the other: and in the meane time the poore Commons so deeply engaged, were packed away, and sent forth against these enemies & those: and now without all regard and discretion, they fought occasions to quarrell and make warre in every place. From Antium to Satricum, from Satricum to Velitre, from thence to Tusculum have your Legions been posted. And now forsooth, there is warre intended against the Latines, Hernicks and Prenestines: for hatred rather of the cittizens here at home, than of the enemies [unspec K] abroad: and all to weare out the Commons with continuall wars, and to affoord them no brea∣thing while within the cittie: that in time of rest, they might remember and thinke upon their freedome, keepe their roomes in common assembly, where they might yet at the length heare their Tribunes voice, pleading for the easement of usurie, and for a finall end of all injuries. But and if the Commons had the heart, and carried that mind with them, as to call to remembrance their auncestors libertie, they would suffer neither any cittizen of Rome to be awarded to bon∣dage for debt, nor any musters to be taken, untill a view were made and just accompt had, of eve∣ry man his debts, and some course taken for abating the same: that each man might know, what he had of other mens goods, what remained of his owne: whether his bodie were left free, or at the mercie of his creditour, to lie in cold yron and balefull prison.

This hire and salarie of sedi∣tion, [unspec L] this reward once propounded aforehand, stirred up (you may be sure) a mutinie soon after. For whereas there were many adjudged to be bound unto their creditors, and the Senators had decreed new Legions to be levied, for the bruit and rumour that went of the Prenestine warres: both matters began to be hindred fortaking any effect, as wel by the Tribunes helpe as the Com∣mons accord. For neither would the Tribunes suffer those that were comdemned to bee led to prison: nor yet the younger sort of the Commons, enter their names in the Muster ma∣ster his booke. And the Senatours for the present, lesse minded the execution of judgment for the creditours behoufe, than the mustering. For why? Newes came alreadie, that the ene∣mies had put themselves in their journey from Preneste, and were encamped in the Sabines countrie. And all this while, the very tidings hereof rather quickned and provoked the Tri∣bunes [unspec M] of the Commons to the broile that was begun, than frighted them any jote from it. Nei∣ther would any thing serve to quench the sedition in the cittie, untill the warre was come in manner to the verie walles. For the Prenestines had intelligence given them, that in Rome there was no armie gathered, no Generall certainly knowne: the Senators and Commons at jarre and

[unspec A] together by the eares.* 1.49 Their captaines hereupon, taking this vantage and opportunitie, with a running campe invaded, spoiled and wasted the fields all afore them as they went, and came with banners displaid before the gate Collina. Great feare was in the cittie, everie man cried Alarm, ran up to the wals to man them, and to the gates to ward them. And at the last they left their mutinies, turned to the wars, and created T. Quintius Cintinnatus Dictatour. He appointed for his Generall of horsemen, A. Sempronius A••atinu••. This was not so soone voiced abroad (so great a terrour went alwaies with that magistrate) but the enemies withall dislodged and depar∣ted from the wals: and the yonger sort of the Romanes, without any hasting and drawing backe, upon the proclamation, gathered together. Whiles forces were thus a raising at Rome, the ene∣mies pitched their camp not farre from the river Allia: and as they harried the country allabout, [unspec B] they bragged and vanted among themselves, that they had gotten that very plot of ground, which was ever fatall to the destruction of the cittie of Rome.

Here will be (say they) the like fight, from hence will they flie, no doubt, as sometimes they did before in the Gaules warre. For if the Romanes feared that dismall and unluckie day, noted with the infamous name of this place; how much more will they dread the river Allia it selfe, in memoriall of their so great overthrow, than the onely bare day Alliensis? Certes, when they are come hither, they will thinke they see againe the grimme lookes, and heare the hideous voices of those savage Gaules. Thus rolling and tos∣sing with themselves these toyish conceits, rising of as vaine and foolish presumptions, they tested wholly and reposed their full hope in the luckie persuasion only of the place.

The Romanes contrariewise knew full well, that their enemies the Latin••s, were (wheresoever they were) the ve∣rie [unspec C] same men still, and no other, whom for the space of one hundred yeares, they held peaceably and quietly as their devoted vassals in subjection. And as for the place noted in deed, for the memoriall of that late diffeature and losse sustained, it might rather stirre them up and set an edge upon them to abolish and cancile the remembrance of that shamefull disgrace, than put them in feare, that anie ground should be so unfortunate, as to be a barre unto their victorie. Nay if the verie Gaules themselves came now in their way, they would so fight with them even in that ground, as they did at Rome, in the recoverie of their countrie: as they did the morrow after at Gabij: when they bare themselves so valiantly, that no one enemie that entred within the wals of Rome, wen••ever home againe to tell newes how they sped, well or ill. Thus on both sides being resolute, and couragiously bent, they met at Allia. The Romane Dictatour discovering [unspec D] the enemies arranged in battaile array,* 1.50 within sight. See you not (quoth he) ô??? A. Sempronius, how they have staied at Allia, presuming upon the luckines of the place? No surer confidence no greater helpe may they have, I pray God.

But you, with trustie armour, keene weapons, and doub∣tie courage, set spurres to horse, gallop amongst the thickest of their maine battaile with your horsemen. I, with the legions on foot, will advance mine ensignes, & display them, in their faces, and charge them hotely when they are disbanded ones, and put in fear. Assist us now, and aid us, ó ye gods (the witnesses of our league) & punish them duly for their deserts, both in dishonoring your divine majestie, and deceiving us in your name, whom they called solemnly to witnesse.

Neither horsemen nor footmen, could the Prenestines abide, but at the very first shout & shock were the rankes broken. And seeing their battaillons in no place whole and kept together, they [unspec E] fled: and amased as they were in that confused feare, and carried away beyond their owne camp, they staied not running for life, untill by good footmanship they were come within the fight of Preneste. There, all such as had beene scattered in the flight, met together, and chose a plot of ground to fortifie in that hast as well as they could: least peradventure, if they had put them∣selves within the towne, forthwith their villages should have been fired, and after all consumed and spoiled, the towne also might fortune to be besieged. But when the Romane Conqueror af∣ter the rifling of their campe at Allia, was once come toward them and discovered, they aban∣doned that fortalso, and gat within the towne Preneste, thinking themselves scarce safe ynough within the wals thereof. Eight townes besides there were under the seignorie of the Prenestines, against which the Dictatour warred round: and having woon them all, one after another with∣out [unspec F] much ado, he brought his armie against Velitre, and got that towne also by assault. Then came hee to the principall head and very seat town of the warre, Preneste▪ which was not by force woon, but by surrender yeelded up into his hands. And T. Quintius thus having obtained one victorie i n a pight field, woon two campes and holds of the enemies, conquered by force nine townes, and regained Preneste surrendred unto him, returned home again to Rome. In his

triumph he carried aloft the Image of Iupiter,* 1.51 surnamed Emperour, which he brought from Pre∣neste, [unspec G] and set it up in the Capitoll, where it was placed and dedicated betweene the shrines of Iupiter and Minerva: and in a table of brasse fixed under it, was the monument of this noble exploit recorded and engraven in these or such like words: T. QUINTIUS DICTATOUR, BY THE GRACIOUS HELPE OF IUPITER, AND ALL THE REST OF THE GODS, VVAN NINE TOVVNES. So on the 20 day after his creation, he resigned up his Dictatorship.

Then was the assemblie holden for electing of Tribunes Militarie with Coff. authoritie, who were equally chosen from out of the Nobilitie and the Com. Of Nobles were created, P. and C. Manlius, with L. Iulius. The Commons yeelded C. Sextilius, M. Albinus, and L. Antislius. Vpon the two Manlij, for that in bloud and degree they were above the Commoners, and for favour [unspec H] more gracious than Iulius, the province of the Volscians was bestowed extraordinarily, without casting lots, or parting together by agreement of the Colleagues amongst themselves. Which both they themselves rued, and the Senators also (that would have it so) repented afterwards. For without any espials, sent out aforehand to scoure the coasts, they had set forth certain cohorts or companies (of footmen) a forraging, and when upon a false al'arme that those were beset and in∣trapped, they marched themselves apace after, to their rescue and convoy, & kept not with them still, the reporter of these tidings (who being indeed a Latine and an enemie, but disguised in the habit of a Roman souldier, had deceived them) they fel headlong into a traine and ambushment laid of purpose for them. And whiles they made resistance with main force onely, in a ground of great disadvantage (giving and taking the like measure) they were killed and slaine on either side. But in the meane time their enemies from another quarter, entred the campe of the Romans, ly∣ing [unspec I] open in the plain. Thus in both places, things went but badly and untowardly, & all through the rashnes and unskilfulnes of the leaders. And what remained unfoiled for the fortune of the people of Rome, that, was preserved by the hardie and resolute valor of the Roman souldiers only, without the helpe of generall and commander. Vpon which news reported at Rome, at the first it was thought good to chuse a Dictator: but afterwards when tidings came, that all was whole, and the Volscians quiet, and that it was well seene they knew not how to use a victorie when they had it, nor to take the oportunitie of the time, whiles it offered it selfe; both the Generals & the armie were sent for home from thence, and so, for the Volscians they were at rest afterwards. Onely in the very end of the yeare, there arose some new stir and suddain tumult, by reason that the Prene∣stines having sollicited the people of the Latines, entred into rebellion againe. In the same year [unspec K] the men of Setia made mone of themselves for want of people, and thither new Coloners were assigned to inhabite there.

Albeit the Romanes sped but badly in warres, yet the quietnesse at home was some comfort: which the Tribunes Militarie chosen from out of the Commons had procured, by reason that they were so gracious and reverenced among those of their owne coat and faction. All the be∣ginning of the yeare following, was at the first on a light fire with hore discord and mutinie, when Sp. Farius, Q. Servilius the second time, Licinius Menenius the third time, P. Cloelius, M. Horatius and L. Geganius were Tribunes Militarie with Consuls authoritie. The matter and cause of which seditious broiles, were the debts above specified. For the due inquisition whereof, and to know [unspec L] to what sums they amounted. Sp. Servilius Priscus, and Q. Cloelius Siculus were made Censors, but stopped they were for doing any thing, by occasion of warres. For first fearefull messengers in all hast brought word, and after, the flight of the countrie people confirmed it, that the legions of the Volscians were entred into the confines, and fell to spoiling everie where the territorie about Rome. Notwithstanding which feare and forraine terror, so little were the civill discords appeased, that contrariwise the Tribunes of the Commons extended their power with more vio∣lence to hinder the levie of soldiours, untill they had indented and capitulated with the Sena∣tours, that so long as the warres lasted, no man should either contribute and be charged with any impost, or be sued in any action of debt. When the Com. took hold once of this easement and libertie, the musters were delaied no longer. And after they had levied and enrolled two new legi∣ons, it was thought convenient that the legions should be devided, and two armies sent forth into [unspec M] the Volscians countrie. So Furius and M. Horatius, went on the right hand along the sea coast to Antium. Q. Servilius & L. Geganius on the left hand, by the way of the mountains to Ecerra. But on neither side met they with the enemie. Whereupon they fell to harrying the countrey, not here and there in scattering wise, as the Volscians had done, after the maner of robbers, at starts

[unspec A] upon advantage taken of their enemies discord, and by stealth for feare of their valour: but be∣ing a ful power & armie of men, and justly provoked to anger, the longer they continued there, the fouler worke they made. For the Volscians standing in feare, least in the meane while they should be encountred with a power from Rome, had made rodes only into the utmost frontiers. But contrariwise, the Romanes made stay in the enemies land, the rather to traine them forth, and draw them to a field-fight. Having therefore burned up, in a manner, all the uplandish hou∣ses and graunges, and some villages also, and left behind them no fruitfull tree standing, nor the sowne corne for hope of graine, and driven away whole booties of men, women, and cartell, which they could light on without the wals; they reduced their armies of both sides home again to Rome. In this meane while the debtors had some little respit to breath themselves in. But so [unspec B] soone as all was quiet from enemies abroad, they began afresh to be sued and troubled by their creditours at home. And so small hope they had to bee released of their old usurie, that they fell into a new, by reason of a contribution collected toward a well, which the Censors had set out to bee made of square Ashler stone. To yeeld unto this imposition and burden, the Commons were driven, because there was no muster for the Tribunes of the Commons to hinder. Forced they were likewise through the might and power of the great men, to admit for Tribunes milita∣rie, all of the Nobilitie, to wit, L. Aemylius, P. Valerius the fourth time, C. Veturius, Servius Sulpi∣tius, L. and C. Quintiij Cincinnatij.

By the same strong hand also they prevailed so much, that without impeachment of any man; all the younger sort tooke the militarie oath, so that they levied three armies against the Latines [unspec C] and Volscians: who joining their legions together, had encamped themselves at Satricum. One armie was gathered for the defence of the cittie: another to be set out against all suddaine wars, if happily elswhere some tumult should arise: & a third, of all other the strongest, was under the conduct of P. Valerius, & L. Aemylius, led to Satricum. Where, finding the enemies embattelled in good array upon a plaine and even ground, they charged upon them presently. But ere that they had gotten the victorie evidently in sight, and were but only in some good hope of having a fair day of their enemies, the raine so poured down with huge storms and tempests, that it parted both hosts asunder. The morrow after began a fresh conflict. And for a good while, the legions of the Latines especially, which by long alliance with the Romanes had learned their manner of warfare, stood to it as valiantly, and sped as fortunately as the Romanes. At length, the Romane [unspec D] horsemen that rode in amongst them, brake their ranckes; and when they were once disarraied, the footmen displaied their ensignes, and advaunced upon them: and looke how much the Ro∣manes battaile set forward, so much the enemies gave backward. But when they began once to faint in their fight, than the violence of the Romanes was intollerable. Thus the enemies were discomfited and scattered: and flying not toward their campe, but to Satricum, which was two miles off, they were by the horsemen especially beaten downe, trode underfoot and slaine. Their tents were taken and rifled. From Satricum they dislodged, the next night after the battaile was fought, and marched in great hast (as if they fled) to Antium. And albeit the Roman armie follo∣wed them by the trackes hard at heeles, yet their footmanship served them better in their feare, than it did the Romanes, for all their anger. So the enemies put themselves within the town wals, [unspec E] before the Romanes could overtake them, and either cut off the taile of their rereward, or force them to stay. After this, some daies were spent in wasting the countrie. For neither were the Ro∣manes sufficiently provided with warlicke engines of batterie and artillerie to assaile their wals, nor they well appointed to abide battaile in plaine field. Then arose some discord within the towne, betweene the Latines and the Antiates. The Antiates, of one side wearied with calamities that follow long warres, wherewith all their life time they had been exercised even to their old age, were of mind to yeeld. The Latines, by reason of their late revolt and rebellion (whiles after so long peace, their courages continued yet fresh) were more forward and earnest to maintaine warres stil. But when they saw on both sides that they might do as they purposed, and follow their owne designements, without being hindred one of another, their strife was soon ended. So the [unspec F] Latines leaving their fellowship and societie of peace, so unhonest and dishonourable (as they thought it) departed from them, and stood out still to revenge their owne quarrels. But the Anti∣ates being well rid of these Counsellors of theirs, so crosse unto all wholesome courses, ten∣ding to their good and safetie, yeelded up their towne and countrie to the Romanes. But the anger and furiours rage of the Latines, for that they could neither annoy the Romanes by

warres, not keepe the Volscians still in armes, brake out thus farre, that they fired the cit∣tie [unspec G] Satricum, which had been the first place of refuge, after their defeature and unhappie fight. Neither left they any house in that cittie standing, but set fire upon all indifferently, as well pro∣fane as holy aedifices: onely the Church of Dame Matuta they spared. From which, it was nei∣ther any religion and conscience of their own, nor feare of the gods that kept them, but (as men report) a fearfull voice heard out of the Temple with heavie threates, unlesse they held their hands, and kept them farre enough from burning the sacred habitations so impiously. In this rage and mad fit of theirs, to Tusculum they go: for very spight that they forsaking the generall counsell of the Latines, had not onely yeelded themselves to be in league with the Romans, but also became incorporate citizens with them. And comming upon them on a sodaine, while their gates were open, at the first shout the whole towne, all but the Castle, was surprised. The [unspec H] townesmen with their wives and children were thither fled: and sent messengers to Rome with certificat to the Senat of this sodaine and unlooked for accident. And with all speed (as apper∣tained to the fidelitie of the people of Rome) an armie was led to Tusculum: wherof L. Quintius and Servius Sulpitius, had the conduct. At Tusculum they found the gates fast shut against them, and the Latines, as men both besieging and besieged. And whiles of the one side they intended the defence of the wals, on the other side assaulted the castle, at one time they were affraid them∣selves, and put others in fear likewise. But the comming of the Romans wrought a great change and alteration in the hearts of both parties. For it caused the Tusculanes of fearfull men to be∣come exceeding cheerefull: and the Latines who made full reckoning to win the fortresse out of hand, as being masters alreadie of the towne, had but small hope now to helpe and save them∣selves. [unspec I] The Tusculans they set up a great shout from the Keepe: and answered it was againe with a greater from the Romane armie. The Latines were put to it hard on both sides: For neither were they able to abide the violence of the Tusculans running downe the hill upon them, not to put by and keepe off the Romans, comming hard under the wals, and assaying to breake the bars of the gates. First they scaled the walles and gat upon them: after, they brake the port-cullies downe. Thus the Latines environed with enemies both before and behind, that pressed fore up∣on them, having neither strength enough left to fight, nor roome of ground to make an escape, were slaine in the midst between the enemies, every mothers sonne. So when Tusculum was re∣covered out of the enemies hands, the armie was brought backe againe to Rome.

But the more quietnesse there was that yeare without the cittie by reason of prosperous wars, [unspec K] the more encreased the violence and hard dealing of the Senatours within: and the calamities of the Commons grew every day more than other. For they wanted meanes and were not able to paie for the interest that needs must be paid. When nothing therfore was to be had, to make paiment out of their goods, they were adjudged and awarded to satisfie their creditours in their bodie and name: and so their punishment served in steed of keeping their credit & discharging the consideration. Wherupon, not only the meanest of the Commons, but also the very chiefe, began now to let fall their hearts and to stoupe so low, that there was not a wittie & nimble hea∣ded man and of experience amongst them, that would put himselfe forth to stand to be a Tri∣bune Militarie, in concurrence with the Nobles, (which they had so earnestly shot at and labou∣red for) no nor so much as to beare and sue for any offices of the Commons. So as the Senators [unspec L] now, seemed to have recovered againe for ever to themselves, the possession of that dignitie, which the Commons of late, for some few yeares, had usurped and occupied over their heads. But that this other side might not joy too much hereat, a finall occurrent hapned betweene which (as it falleth out most commonly) gave the occasion and first footing to an enterprise of much importance.

M. Fabius Ambustus a great and mightie man, as well amongst those of his owne calling, as also with the Commons, (whom he was reputed never to despise, as other did of his condition and estate) had two daughters married forth: the elder unto Servius Sulpitius: the younger unto C. Licinius Stolo, a man verily of good worth and reckoning, but yet a Commoner. And Fabi∣us disdaining not this alliance and affinitie, wan himselfe much love and favor among the Com∣mons. [unspec M] Now it fell out so, that these sisters were upon a time together in the house of Servius Sulpitius, then, Tribune Militarie: and as they passed the time away (as the manner is) in much good talke, discoursing one with another of many matters, it chanced that a Sergeant or verger of Sulpitius, at what time as he was comming home from the Forum or common hall, rapped as

[unspec A] the order was, with his rod at the dore. When the younger Fabia not acquainted with those fashions, was thereat somewhat amazed, her sister making a wonder at her ignorance, laught her to scorne. But that laughter (as womans mindes, god wot, are soone kindled with a little) set her a worke and hammered in her head. Besides, the traine of many that came about her, weigh∣ting and giving attendance, readie to know her pleasure and what she would, mended the matter much. I suppose she thought her sister happily wedded, and repented her owne marriage; upon an ill and s••ister judgment, whereby every man repineth that his neighbour and nearest of kin especially, should go beyond him and doe better then he. Vpon this discontentment and fresh heartburning of hers, her father haply seeing her dismaid, asked her whether all were well at home? But when she would have turned the cause of her griefe another way, (for that it stood [unspec B] neither with her love and kindnesse towards her sister, to envie her estate; nor yet with the reve∣rent honour that she was to yeeld unto her husband, to finde fault with her owne) he with milde questioning came about her so, that he drew from her the truth: so as the confessed her griefe to arise upon this, that she was disparaged; and namely married not according to her qualitie, but into an house uncapable both of worship & favour. Then Ambastus, comforting his daugh∣ter, willed her to be of good cheere, and said, That ere it were long, she should see the same state, the same advancement and dignitie at home, which she had seene alreadie in her sisters house. Hereupon began he to plot with his sonne in law, joyning also unto them L. Sextius, a stout young man, and one that was like enough to come to preferment, but that he was not of noble race. Good occasion & opportunitie they seemed to have of compassing some alteration in the [unspec C] State, by reason of the excessive debts that men were grown into: for the redressing and easing of which maladie, the Com. had no other hope, but in advancing some of themselves into the so∣veraign room of government. They thoght it needful therfore, presently to addresse themselves to the execution of these designments, considering that by endevour & industrie, the Commo∣ners were climbed to that degree alreadie, from whence if they would enforce & put themselves forward, they had but one step more unto the highest, & might be equall with the Nobles, as well in honour as in vertue & prowesse. And for the present, it was thought good to make them, two Trib. of the Com. in which office they might open a way unto themselves, for other dignities. So C. Licinius & L. Sex. proposed laws, all tending to abate the power & might of the Nobles, & wholy for the good & benefit of the Com.* 1.52 One, as touching taking order for debts: That when [unspec D] so much was defaulked & deducted out of the princip al, as had been paied for the use & interest, the residue should be discharged by even portions in 3. years. A second, concerning a proporti∣on & quantitie of lands, That no man might hold in possession above 500.acres. The third, That from thenceforth there should be no Election of Trib. Militarie, but of Coss. provided alwaies, that one of them be chosen out of the Com. Matters all of right great weight and consequence, and such as without exceeding strife and contention, could not possibly be carried and obtai∣ned. Thus when all those things at once lay a bleeding, and were in hazard to be lost, which the whole world unmeasurably coveteth and longeth after, to wit, land, money, and promotions: the Senatours were put in a bodily feare, and began to startle. And laying their heads together both in publike consultation and private conference, they could devise no other remedie, but that [unspec E] which in many bickerments alreadie they had tried, namely, the stepping betweene and nega∣tive voice of some of the Tribunes. And so, to crosse those bils aforesaid put up by these two Tribunes, they had wrought & made to their purpose certaine of their own brotherhood. Who so soone as they saw the wardes or tribes called forth by Licinius and Sextius, to give their suffra∣ges, being well backed and garded with the assistance of the Senators, would suffer neither those lawes to be read, not any other besides (as yearely they used) to passe by the voices of the Com∣mons.

Thus the two Tribunes aforesaid, having oftentimes (but ever in vaine) assembled the people together, and seeing their lawes still nipped, as it were, in the head for ever going forward; It is very well (quoth Sextius) and since yee like so well that these Inhibitions may prevaile so much: we will likewise defend the Commons with the same weapon and no other. Go to now [unspec F] my masters of the Nobilitie, proclaime an Election for the creation of Tribunes Militarie: I will make I trow, that this word [* 1.53Vcto] shall doe your selves no good at all: howsoever now yee take so great pleasure to heare our brethren keepe that note still, and evermore sing that sweete concert of musicke.

And surely, those threats proved in deed to good earnest and tooke effect. For there was no Election at all but of Aediles and Tribunes, and those both of the Commons.

For Licinius and Sextius being chosen Tribunes againe, suffered no Magistrates of the Chaire [unspec G] or of State, to be created. Which defect and desolation of soveraigne Magistracie continued in the cittie for the space of five yeares: whiles the Commons for their part chose the same two Tribunes still, and they againe ever laid a barre and put in a caveat, against the Election of Tribunes Militarie.

All other wars, as good hap was, were a sleepe for the time. The Coloners onely of Velitre, upon so long rest and quietnesse began to be lustie and wax wanton: and for that there was no ar∣mic of the Romanes stirring abroad, they not onely made inrodes sundrie times into the territo∣rie of Rome, but also assailed the towne Tusculum. And when the Tusculanes, the ancient Al∣lies and new enfranchised citizens of Rome craved helpe, the Senatours and Commons both, were moved especially for very shame to succor them. And the Tribunes of the Commons yeel∣ded [unspec H] at length, and permitted an assembly for Election, to be holden by an Interegent: and Trib. Military there were created L. Furius, A. Manlius, Ser. Sulpitius, Ser. Cornelius, A. & C. Valerij. Who found not the Commons so tractable in the mustering, as they were pliable in giving their voices at the Election. Yet, after much adoe & great contention they levied an armie, and set forward on their journey: drave the enemies not from Tusculum onely, but forced them within their own wals: besiedged Velitre more streightly a great deale, and in more forcible manner, than Tuscu∣lum had been by them. Howbeit, they that began the siege were not able to win the towne. For before that time, were new Tribunes Militarie chosen, Q. Servilius, C. Veturius, A. and M. Corne∣lius, Q. Quintius, M. Fabius. Neither performed these Tribunes any notable exploit at Velitre. But the State at home stood in more dangerous termes than before. For besides that Sextius [unspec I] and Licinius, the publishers of those lawes aforesaid, were now the eighth time made Trib. of the Commons againe, Fabius also a Tribune Militarie, Stolo his wives father, was seene openly in the action, to set forward and persuade for the same lawes, which in verie deed himselfe had devi∣sed. And whereas at the first, eight of the Colledge or companie of the Tribunes of the Com∣mons, had crossed the proceeding of them: now there were but five left that shewed themselves, and those (as commonly they vse to doe that disband from their owne faction) like men be∣straught of their wits and amased, being indeed the tongues and trunkes that others spake by, pre∣tended and made allegations in their prohibition, onely as they were schooled and taught their lessons at home: (to wit) That a great sort of the Commons were in the army at Velitre & absent, and that the solemne session or assembly for enacting laws, ought to be adjourned untill the re∣turne [unspec K] home of the soldiours: to the end that all the Commons generally, might give their voi∣ces concerning their owne commoditie and benefit.* 1.54

Sextius and Licinius with part of their bre∣thren Tribunes, and M. Fabius one of the Tribunes Militarie, being their owne craftsmasters, knew well enough by so many years experience, how to mannage and handle the mindes of the Com∣mons: and plied the chiefe of the Senatours (produced forth before the people) so hard, with in∣tergatories of everie particular that was proposed, that they wearied and tired them out. De∣maunding, how they could require to be allowed themselves top ossesse more than 500 acres a man; whereas the Commons had but two a peece devided amongst them? Whether that everie one of them might in equitie hold the lands, well neere, of three hundred citizens: and a commoner to have hardly ground enough for to build him a necessarie house upon, and to [unspec L] serve for a place to burie his dead? Also, whether their will and pleasure was that the Commons oppressed with usurie, should yeeld their bodies to beare yrons and suffer torment, unlesse they paid theinterest before the principall? And that daily by whole companies they should be had away from the barre, condemned to thraldome; and Noble mens houses to become goales, filled and pestered with prisoners? And wheresoever a Patritian dwelt, there should be a private prison? These indignities and piteous matters to be heard, when they had with a loud voice charged upon them, even before those that were affraid of the like measure themselves; with more indignation and disdaine of all that heard them, than they themselves shewed in the uttering and deliverie: But these Senators say they (and that they redoubled) will never make an end either of getting more land still into their hands, or spoiling and undoing the Commons with usurie, [unspec M] untill the Commons make once out of their bodie one Consull, for to be the maintainer and protectour of their libertie. As for the Tribunes of the Commons, they were now just nothing set by: as who by their priviledge of Inhibitions and negative voices, spoiled themselves and overthrew their owne power. And never will there be any indifferent and equall course taken,

[unspec A] so long as the Nobles keepe the soveraigne place of commaund, and the sword to strike whiles the poore Commons have onely the buckler hand to ward all venues. For unlesse the go∣vernment be parted betweene both alike, the Commons shall never have their due and equall portion, in the Commonweale. Neither is it reason that any man should stand contented with this onely, that in the Election of Consuls, the Commons are eligible and capable of the dig∣nitie: for in case, it be not concluded absolutely, that one Consull at the least shall be of necessi¦tie a Commoner, there will never be any at all. Have yee forgotten alreadie (say they) that not∣withstanding an Act made, That there should be Tribunes Militarie created rather than Con∣suls, for this intent, that Commoners might aspire and reach unto the chiefe place of honour; yet for all that in 44 years space, there was not so much as one of the Commoners chosen Tribune [unspec B] Militarie? And will any man beleeve that they will of their own accord conferre upon the Com∣mons (when otherwise they may chuse) that dignitie in the disposing onely of two places, who were ever wont in the making of Tribune Militarie, to take up eight roomes all wholly to themselves? And will they allow them a way unto the Consulship, who thus long have held the (Consular) Tribuneship so guarded, as no man might have accesse thither but themselves? Nay it must be gotten by a positive law, which in their assemblies for Election, by favour and grace might not be obtained. One of the Consuls roumes must be set aside, past all peradventure and question, and that for a Commoner, to enter into. For as much as if it stand still upon a choise, the mightier man will ever go away with the game cleere. And whereas heretofore they have been wont to alledge and say, That the Commons affourded not sufficient and able men to beare [unspec C] the offices of the chaire and of state: that, now can not be truely objected. Forwas the Com∣monweale, I pray, you more slackly and negligently governed upon the (Consular) Tribune∣ship of P. Licinius, Calvus (who was the first Commoner that ever was made Tribune Militarie) than it was ruled for those yeares space, in which there was not a Tribune Militarie but of the No∣bilitie? Nay, on the contrarie side, it will be justified that some of the Nobles were condemned after they were out of their Tribuneship, and not one of the Commoners. And whereas not ma∣ny yeares past, we began to make Questors or Treasurers out of the Commons, like as we did Tribunes Militarie, the people of Rome repented never of the choise of any one of them. It re∣maineth now, that the Commoners beare the office of Consuls too. That were a fortresse of their libertie, that were a strength and sure hold to trust unto. If they were once come and slept [unspec D] to that degree, then may the people of Rome thinke assuredly and be persuaded, that the KK. are banished indeed out of the cittie, and their freedome fully established for ever to endure. For, from that day forward shall the Commons be partakers of all those things, wherein the Nobles now surpasse them: namely, soveraigne rule and authoritie, martiall renowne, pa∣rentage and Nobilitie: great ornaments doubtlesse, unto themselves to enjoie heere in this life: but farre greater to leave behind them unto their children and posteritie. These and such like Orations when they saw to be plausible, and willingly accepted, they preferred a new Statute, That in steed of the two Duumvirs for holy ceremonies and matters of the Church, there might be chosen 10 Decemvirs, Provided alwaies, that one part of them should be cre∣ated forth of the Commons, and another from among the Nobles.

The Session for enacting of [unspec E] all those lawes, they deferred untill the armie was returned, which lay then at the siege be∣fore Velitre.

But the yeare was come about and fully expired, before the legions were reduced home from thence: and by that meanes the whole businesse about these new lawes, hung still in suspence, and was put off unto the entrance of the new Tribes Militarie. As for the Tribunes of the Commons, the Communaltie chose the same againe, even those twaine who had beene the proposers of those lawes. And the Tribunes Militarie were these, T. Quintius, Ser. Cornelius, Ser. Sulpitius, Sp. Servilius, L. Papyrius, L. Veturius. Presently in the beginning of the yeare, they put it to the verie jumpe and finall triall what should become of those lawes. And when as the Tribes were called, and none of the Tribunes collegues stepped betweene to stop the proceeding of the law∣givers: [unspec F] the Nobles were affraid, and ran unto their two last helpes, to wit, the highest and abso∣solute office, and the greatest man among them. They thought it good therfore to create a Di∣ctatour. And M. Furius Camillus was nominated, who Elected unto him L. Aemylius for Ge∣nerall of the horse. The lawmakers likewise for their part, against so great preparation of their ad∣versaries, armed at all parts the cause of the Commons, with stout stomacke and couragious

heart. And having assembled an Hall of the Commons, they called forth the wards to give their [unspec G] voices. At what time the Dictatour accompanied with a great traine of Nobles, full of wrath and menacing frownes, tooke his place and set him downe. And after the matter was canvassed first, by the ordinarie conflict of the Tribunes among themselves, whiles some propounded, and others gainsaid the law with their negatives forces; and that by how much in right the prohibi∣tion was the stronger, so much it was overweighed in favour and affection both of the lawes and lawgivers: and when the first Tribes had given their voice (* 1.55Viirogatis) affirmatively: then Ca∣millus, for as much as, (quoth hee) ô Qutrites, yee are ruled now by the will and pleasure, and not by the authoritie of the Tribunes, & as in times past ye obtained the priviledge of a negative voice and * 1.56 Intercession by your departure & Sesession, so now ye make it void & nothing worth, [unspec H] even by the same force that ye got it by. I, chosen Dictatour as well for your sake as for the whole Commonwealth, will assist your priviledge of Intercession, and by mine absolute authoritie maintaine this your helpe and succour, now renversed and overthrowne. If therfore C. Licinius and L. Sextius, give place unto the negative voice and intereeding of their fellowes in office, I will not in a meeting and assemblie of the Commons, once intermedle, nor bring in the autho∣ritie, of a magistrate of the Nobles: but if they shall go forward still (notwithstanding all Prohi∣bition) to impose and give lawes unto the cittie, as if it were woon by conquest of the enemie, I will not suffer the Tribunes power by their owne selves to be defaced and come to nothing. But (all these big words notwithstanding) when the Tribunes of the Commons made but a tush therat, and went never the latter forward with their enterprise, the n Camillus throughly angred in deed, sent his Lictours and sergeants to commaund the Commons to avoid the place and [unspec I] depart: Threatning with all, that if they proceeded thus, he would take a Militarie oth of all the yoonger people, and lead an armie presently forth of the cittie. This put the Commons in a verie great fright, but it set their captaines and ringleaders, rather in a greater heat of contention, than abated their courages one jot. And when he saw no relenting on either side, he gave up his office: Whether it were that there was some errour in his creation, (as some have written) or because the Tribunes of the Commons had put up a bill to the Commons, and they graunted it: that if M. Furius (as Dictatour) had proceeded to any action, he should have a round fine set on his head of 500000 * 1.57Asses, I know not certainly. But I beleeve that he was terrified upon some unluckie signes of the birds, rather than with any such strange Act never heard of be∣fore, and without precedent. And hereunto am I induced, both in regard of the disposition of [unspec K] the man, so well given and of so good conscience, and also for that M. Manlius was immediatly named Dictatour in his steed. For to what end should Manlius have beene created Dictatour for that broile and sturre, wherin M. Furius had taken the foile before? Againe, seeing the same M. Furius was Dictatour the next yeare following, doubtlesse, he would never for shame have re∣sumed that office, wherin the yeare before he had received the foile and disgrace, to be so over ruled. Over and besides, at the same time when as this bill was supposed to have beene prefer∣red, concerning his fine, either he might have withstood it too, (wherby he saw himselfe to be bridled) or else he had not beene able to have hindred so much as those, for which this also was proposed. Finally it was never seene to this day wherin we live, so long as the Tribunes and Con∣suls with their fact ions and parts taking have beeneat variance and debate with all their might [unspec L] and maine, but evermore the authoritie of the Dictatour controlled them all, and put them downe.

Betweene the former Dictatorship of Camillus now resigned up, and the new by Manlius accepted and begun, there was an assembly of the Commons summoned by the Tribunes, in time as it were of a vacancie or Interreigne: wherin the overture was made and evidently it was seen, which of the lawes proposed the Commons liked better, and which the lawgivers. For those that concerned usurie and land, they granted to passe, but that other of.a Commoner to be Consull, they denied and dashed quite. And surely both matters had beene dispatched fully and established at once, but that the Tribunes said directly, that they required the Commons, to give their voices and speake to all three, directly together. After this, P. Manlius the Dictatour [unspec M] favored somewhat, and helped the cause of the Commons, by nominating out of the Commons for his Generall of horsemen, C. Licinius, who had beene a Tribune Militarie before time. The Senatours stormed hereat, as I find in records. And the Dictatour was wont to excuse the matter unto them, alledging for himselfe the neere affinitie and kindred that was betweene him

[unspec A] and Licinius: saying also, that the dignitie of the Generall of horsemen was no greater than of a Tribune Consular. Now when the Election day was published for the Tribunes of the Com∣mons, Licinius and Sextius so demeaned themselves, that by pretending that they would not any longer now continue in the office, they set the Commons on to be most earnest and hotely bent for that, which they under colour of refusall, desired and sought for.

They seemed, forsooth, to alleadge and say, That for these nine yeares they had stood as it were in battaile array, and af∣fronted the States and Nobles of the cittie, to the right great perill of themselves in privat, and to no good effect at all in publicke: and now together with them, both the lawes proposed, and the whole strength of the Tribunes authoritie, were waxed old and decaied. At the first their laws were crossed by the interceding of their brethren Tribunes: afterwards, by packing away the [unspec B] youth of the citie to the Veliterne warre: and last of all, the Dictators lightening flashed in their faces, and their thunderbolts shot against them. Now (say they) neither their fellow Tribunes withstood them, nor foraine warres hindered them, ne yet the Dictatour himselfe, as who for his part hath given a good foretokening and presage of a Consull Commoner, in electing his Ge∣nerall of horsemen from out of the Commons. The very Commons and none els, are they that hurt themselves, and delay their owne goods. Who might presently if they would, have their ci∣tie, their common hall, & place of assemblies freed from these creditors: yea, and their grounds recovered againe from the unjust Landlords. Which benefites and liberties, when are they like to weigh and esteeme with thankefull minds accordingly, if in the very time that they are to ac∣cept the lawes devised for their owne wealth and good, they cut off all hope of promotion and [unspec C] honour, from the publishers and proposers thereof? For it standeth not with the modestie of the people of Rome, to require to be eased themselves of Vsurie, and to be set in posiession again of the land, wrongfully withheld from them by the mightie men: and then to leave those old Trib. by whose meanes they have come by those good commodities, to shift for themselves, not only without honor, but also without all hope of honor. Let them first therfore set downe with them∣selves, & resolve, what they are minded to do: and afterwards in the election of Trib. declare the same openly. If they would be willing to speake affirmatively to those laws, all jointly as they were propounded, then there were some reason to chuse the same Trib. againe: and then would they enact & establish finally that which they had published. But in case their wil was to accept of that and no more than which served each private mans turne, then there was small need or none at [unspec D] all to have them still in office, with the envie and grudging of so many. And to bee short, neither would they accept of the Tribuneship any longer, neither should the Commons have those laws ratified, which were alreadie graunted. When as all the rest of the Senatours were strucken into their dumpes and blanke, for the very indignitie to see things thus goe.

At the last, one Appius Claudius Crassus (the nephew or sonnes sonne of that notorious Appius the Decemvir) upon a malicious mind and fell stomacke,* 1.58 as it is reported, rather than for any hope hee had to dissuade the matter, stood up, and to this effect answered that so stout & peremptorie speech of the Tri∣bunes, in this manner.

It can be no strange matter to me, nor unlooked for, ô Quirites, if that which hath been the onely thing at all times objected by seditions Tribunes against our house, I [unspec E] also should hear at this present: to wit, that the whole name and linage of Claudij, have ever from the first beginning, regarded nothing more in the Commonweale, than the majestie and honor of the Senatours and the Nobles, and alwaies set and opposed themselves against the good and welfare of the Commons. Of which two chalenges, the one I neither can, nor will denie and dis∣avow: namely that wee, since the first time that wee were enfranchised cittizens, and therewith at once taken into the number of Senators, have endevoured and strained our selves, that it might be said, and that truly, that the honor and dignitie of that state and degree, into which it was your good pleasure we should be incorporate, and graced with, was by us augmented, rather than im∣paired. And as for the other challenges, this I darebe bold, in mine owne behalfe, and in the name of mine auncestors and progenitors, to averre, ô Quitites: that (unlesse a man would thinke what∣soever is done for the weale publicke generally, is directly against the Commons, as if they were [unspec F] meere aliens of another cittie) we to our knowledge have practised nothing, witting and willing, either whiles we lived private, or during the time we bare office, prejudiciall to the Communal∣tie: and that neither in deed nor word, wee can be justly charged to have wrought and contrived any thing contrarie to your good: although peradventure somewhat hath fallen out crosse against your will and mind. But were I not a Claudius, and of that familie, nor descended of no∣ble

bloud, but some one of the Burgeoises or cittizens: and knew my selfe to be but free borne, [unspec G] both by father and mother, and to live in a free cittie: could I (thinke yee) hold my tongue? but franckely speake and say, that these perpetuall Tribunes (God save all) L. Sextius, and C. Licinius I meane, have for nine yeares (for so long they have plaied Rex) taken so much upon them, & ben so bold as to say they will not permit you to have free voices, neither in solemne assemblies for elections, not in Sessions and Parliaments for allowing and ordaining lawes? Vpon conditi∣on (quoth one of them) you shall make us Tribunes againe the tenth time. What is this els but to say? That, which other sue for, we so scorne and disdaine, that accept of it wee will not, with∣out good hire and recompence. And what reward and consideration is this, good Sirs, for which we may have your Worships, our ever-Tribunes? Marrie (quoth hee) that yee will accept jointly together and at once, all our lawes, whether they like you or dislike you: whether they bee good [unspec H] and holesome, or bad and noisome. Now I beseech you good Tarquines (Tribunes of the Com∣mons I would have said) imagine I were one of the ordinarie citizens, and should from out of the multitude assembled, speak out and say: Pleaseth it your good grace, Sir, that out of these laws propounded, wee may chuse those that wee thinke good and holesome for us, and refuse and dis∣anull the rest.* 1.59 [Oh (quoth he) that may not be. Thou maiest allow, belike, and ordain, concerning Vsurie, concerning lands, which tend to the commoditie of you all. But now beware of bugs. This monstrous and portenteous wonder must in no case be permitted in Rome, that thou shoul∣dest see L.Sextius, and this perrillous fellow C. Licinius to bee Consuls, which thy heart riseth at, and which goeth against thy stomacke. Nay, nay, either accept of all, or I will propound none at all.]* 1.60 This is all one, as if a man should give him that is hunger-bitten, and readie to starve, poison [unspec I] and meat together: and bid him either forbeare the wholesome food to preserve his life, or else to take the deadly bane to hasten his death. But if this were a free State indeed, would not many a one have cried out and said, Avant you and your Tribuneships, out upon you with yours lawes. What Sir? How if your Mastership wil not put up & prefer that which is commodious and pro∣fitable for the people to accept as there none, think you besides, that wil propound it? If any No∣bleman, or if any Claudius (which they take to be more odious) should thus say, Either take all, or I wil propose none at all. Which of you, Quirites, would endure it? why? wil ye never regard the sub∣stance more than the person; the matter rather than the man? But all is wel taken & heard quick∣ly, which that magistrat shal say. And wil ye alwaies hear with the wrong or dease care, whatsoever any of us shal happen to speak? Well, the words are naught, & the speech (without question) very [unspec K] uncivile and rude. Now let us see what maner of law it is, that they storme so at, because by you it is rejected. In good faith ó Quirites, much like unto their language. This I require (qd.he) that it might not be lawfull for you to make Coss. whom ye will. For what els demandeth he, who would have it enacted by expresse tearms, that one atleast of the Coss. must be a Commoner of necessi∣tie, & leaveth it not unto your choise to make two Noblemen Coss. If we had wars at this day, such as somtime the Tuscane war was, when Porsens was master of the Ianicle & kept that piece against us; or such as the Gaules war of late daies was, when the enemies were LL. and possessed of all the citie here, but the Capitoll and forresse onely; set case, that L. Sextius should be prickt and pro∣pounded either with this M. Furius here in place or with any one other of the Nobles, and stand to be Cos. would ye abide that Sextius should be undoubtedly Cos. and Camillus at devotion and [unspec L] in hazard to take repulse? Is this indeed to bestow your dignities indifferently with even & equall hand? That two of the Commons, forsooth, may be elected Consuls, and not two likewise of the Nobles? And that one of them must needs perforce be created out of the Commons: and in the electing of both, the Nobles may be overhipt? What societie is this, what communitie & par∣ticipation? Will not this serve thy turne and content thee, that wherein thou hadst no title nor interest afore, thou shouldst now have thy part: unlesse in seeking to have a portion, thoupluck all unto thy selfe? I feare me (quoth he) if both Consuls might be made of the Nobilitie, ye would chuse none at all of the comminaltie. What is this els but to say? Because willingly of yourselves, ye would not chuse unworthy persons and unmeere, I will bind you therfore of neces∣sitie, to elect those whom otherwise ye would passe by. And what followeth hereupon but this, [unspec M] that the Commoner who standeth with two Patricij, may plainly say, and that truely, he is not by voices chosen, but by vertue of a law, and so acknowledge no benefit received of the people, nor be beholden at all to them, for their grace and favour? Thus seeke they meanes to wring your dignities from you, and not the way to sue for them: and would so obtaine the greatest, as that

[unspec A] they mought not be obliged and bound unto you for the least: and had rather get honours and offices by advantage taking and cunning sleights, than by their owne vertue, defart and worthi∣nesse. But there is some one that scorneth to be pried and looked into, and to be considered as he deserveth: who thinkes it meet, that he alone among the other Competitors, that contest and stand in suit, should be sure of offices and promotions, and will not submit himselfe to your cen∣sure who would have your suffrages, of voluntarie, to be constrained: of free, to be thrall & ser∣vile. I speake not of Licinius and Sextius: whose yeares of their continuall government ye reckon upon, and marke up in the Capitoll, as they used sometime, to count the yeares of the Kings raigne. But what is he this day in the cittie, of so base, so abject and low condition, that by the ad∣vantage and benefit of this law, hath not easier accesse to a Consulship, than we and our children [unspec B] have? As for us truly, ye may sometime misse of chusing us, would you never so faine: but for them ye must needs, yea though full against your mind. And thus much concerning the indigni∣tie and unworthinesse of the thing, For, dignitie and worthinesse, I take, to be matters properly to men pertaining. What shall I speake now of Religions, and of the solemnitie of the Auspi∣ces, which emply a meere contempt and injurie done to the immortall gods? Who knoweth not, that by the approbation of the gods, testified by flight of birds, this cittie was first founded? that by the same Auspices, all hath been ordered and directed, as well in war abroad, as in peace at home? And who be they that have to doe with these tokens & presages, by auncient custome and tradition from our forefathers? Forsooth even the Nobles and none els. As for the Magi∣strates of the Commons, none are chosen with regard of slight, sight, and feeding of the birdes. [unspec C] But to us, they doe so properly belong, that not onely those Magistrates of the Nobles, which the people create, they doe not otherwise elect but by observation of the birds; but we also our selves, without the assent and voice of the people; doe nominate an Interrex by meanes of the birdes: yea and in the private actions of our life, we are guided by them at home, which these Commons use not in their very offices. What then meaneth he els, but to take these Auspicia out of the cittie, who by creating Commoners to be Consuls, depriveth the Nobles therof, who onely may have and use them? Now let them mocke on and scoffe at our religions. Let them de∣ride our ceremonies. What makes matter (say they) if those pullets pecke or eat not? What if they come somewhat late out of their coupe or cage? What if a bird sing auke or crowe crosse and contrarie? How then? A great piece of matter surely. Small things but, I confesse, they be: [unspec D] but as small as they are, our auncestours by not concerning them, have brought this C.W. to a flourishing state. And we now a daies, as if we stood not in neede of the grace and favour of God, pollute all holie rites and ceremonies. And therfore let our prelats and high priests, our Augurs, and King at Sacrifices bee created (it skilleth not how) even out of the common mul∣titude: Let us set upon any mans head (it matters not whose, so he come in likenesse of a man) the miter of Iupiter his Flamine. Let us commit the keeping of the Anciles or heavenly shields, and the secret Sanctuaries; let us commit the gods themselves and the charge of their holy ser∣vice to those, unto whom we may not lawfully nor without impietie. Let no lawes be published nor Magistrates created solemnly, with regard of birds at all, and of the will of the gods. Nor in the Centuriate assemblies holden by degrees, and Curiat-meetings by the wardes and parishes, [unspec E] let not the Senatours be presidents and have their authoritie and toiall assent. Let Sextius and Li∣cinius, like Romulus and Tatius raigne togither, as fellow KK, in the cittie of Rome, because they give away so freely, the monies, lands, and territories from others. So sweete and favorie it is to prey upon other mens goods. Never consider they, not looke so farre into the matter, that by one of these goodly lawes, our fieldes will be desert and wast, by ejecting and dispossessing the rightfull land-lords: and by the other, all credit in borrowing and lending, in taking and putting forth of mony shal be abolished. And then farewel all human societie, commerce, & intercourse whatsoever. In these respects therfore, thus I conclude, and would counsell you, in any wise to stop, frustrate and disanull the overture and proceeding of these lawes: and in so doing, I praie God blesse and speed you well. This Oration of Appius thus farre onely prevailed, that the time [unspec F] of publication of these Actes, was cut off and differed.

But the same Tribunes Sextius and Lici∣nius, being chosen againe thetenth time,* 1.61 propounded this law and had it enacted, That of the Decemvirs for divine service and church matters, some should be created of the Commons. So, five of them were of the Nobles, and five of Commoners: whereby they seemed to have gained alreadie one good step onward unto the Consulship.

The Commons contenting themselves with this victorie, yeelded unto the Senatours, that [unspec G] for the present without any mentioning of Consuls, there should be elected Tribunes Militarie. So there were created A. and M. Cornelij the second time, M. Geganius, P. Manlius, L. Vetu∣rius and P. Valerius the sixth time. At what time, when as (but for the siege of Velitre, which was like to be for service a long piece of worke, rather than for issue, doubtfull in the end) the Ro∣manes were at rest for any forreine troubles, the sodaine and unlooked-for newes of the Gaules war, drave the cittie to chuse M. Furius Dictatour the fisth time: who tooke unto him for his Ge∣nerall of the horsmen, T. Quintius Penus. Claudius writeth, that this yeare the Gauls were fought with, about the river Anio: and that there was that noble combat upon the bridge, in which, T. Manlius, in the sight of both armies slew in single fight a Gaule that had challenged him andgiven defiance, and despoiled him of his coller of gold. But there be more writers that induce [unspec H] me to beleeve, that this exploit was performed ten yeares after: and that in this yeare the Gauls had a battaile given them by M. Furius Dictator, in the Albanes land: where the Romanes had neither doubtfull nor dangerous victorie, although the French made them afraid at first in re∣membrance of their former overthrow. Many thousands of this barbarous nation were slaine in field, many also fell upon the sword in their campe after it was won. Some were scattered & fled, and those most (who tooke the way to Apulia) saved themselves from the enemie, both by flying so farre, and also for that upon feare they were so distracted and parted one from another. The Se∣natours and Commons agreed and made a decree, that the Dictatour should triumph. Who scarcely had made an end of that war, but he was welcomed home with a more hotter and more dangerous Sedition within the cittie. For after many sharp bickerings and contentions, the Di∣ctatour [unspec I] and Senat both, were overmatched and overcome, yea & forced to accept the Tribunes lawes aforesaid. And also malgree the Nobilitie and doe what they could, there was an assembly holden for Election of Consuls:* 1.62 in which L. Sextius was created Consull, the first Commoner that ever fate in Consuls chaire. But the broiles staied not there. For, by reason that the Nobles denied to approve and give assent thereto, the matter was like to grow unto a Secession and ge∣nerall departure of the Commons, yea to other fearfull tearmes and perilous threats of ci∣vile wars and intestine troubles. Howbeit, by meanes of the Dictatour, the flames were quenched and the discords appeased, upon these capitulations. Imprimis, that the Nobilitie should accord unto the Commons, to have one Consull from among themselves. Item, that the common people should be content that the Nobles might out of the Patritij creat a Pretor or Lord chiefe [unspec K] Iustice for oyer and determiner in causes within the cittie. Thus when after long anger the two states of the cittie were growen to unitie and concord, the Senate thinking it a worthie matter (and good cause they had verely as ever any time before) willingly to determin, for the honour of the immortall Gods, to set out those most stately [Roman] plaies. And whereas before, they had continued but three daies, to ad one more, & to celebrate them full foure. And when the Aediles of the Commons refused that charge and excused themselves, the younger Gentlemen of the Nobilitie cried all with one voice, That they would most gladly doe that service and honour to the immortall Gods, so as they might be made Aediles for that purpose. Thanked they were ge∣nerally of all hands; and the Senate made a decree, That the Dictator should propose unto the people, that two men of the Nobilitie might be Aediles and that in [unspec L] all the Assemblies and Elections for that yeare, whatsoever passed, should be ratified by the soveraigne assent of the Senators.

Notes

• * 1.1

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.2

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.3

  Q. Fabius 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.4

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.5

  1•• 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.6

  16 day of ••••ly.
• * 1.7

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.8

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.9

  The Capitall built of square stone.
• * 1.10

  The Temple of Mars dedicated.
• * 1.11

  Fouve n••w Tribes adioyned to Rome:
• * 1.12

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.13

  The Oration of M. Fluvius Ca∣millus to his souldiours.
• * 1.14

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.15

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.16

  Nep•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.17

  The excuse of the Latines and Hernickes.
• * 1.18

  The discontent∣ments of Ma••cus Manlius, m••nding sedition.
• * 1.19

  A 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the author.
• * 1.20

  The Creation of A. Cornelius Cossus Dictator, to his souldiors.
• * 1.21

  The Volscians desai••ed.
• * 1.22

  The mutinous speeches of a Centurion▪
• * 1.23

  The speech of 〈…〉〈…〉 M. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.24

  The answere of Manlius to the Dictatour.
• * 1.25

  M. Manlius apprehended▪
• * 1.26

  Satricum made a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.27

  The seditious speeches of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of M. Manlius.
• * 1.28

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.29

  The seditious Oration of Mar•• Manlius to the Commons of Rome.
• * 1.30

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 king.
• * 1.31

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.32

  A ••••me from 〈◊〉〈◊〉 granted in great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the State.
• * 1.33

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.34

  M. Marisus ar∣rai••••ed, and an∣s••••••h for 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.35

  ••••shi••red in forme of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of ••••••i
• * 1.36

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 the branches.
• * 1.37

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.38

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.39

  L. Furius to hit souldiours.
• * 1.40

  L. Furius to M. Furius.
• * 1.41

  M. Furius his answere to L. Fu∣rius, and the soldiors:
• * 1.42

  M. Fu•••• Cas 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to his soldio•••• ••••ying ••••ay.
• * 1.43

  ••. Furius to his 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.44

  The Volscians defeated.
• * 1.45

  The prudent dis••simulation of the Tusculans.
• * 1.46

  Camillus to th•• Senat of Tus∣culum.
• * 1.47

  The Dictator of T••sculum to the Senat of Rome.
• * 1.48

  The Tribun••e of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Senat.
• * 1.49

  The Pr••••••stine•• 〈…〉〈…〉 of Rome.
• * 1.50

  T. Quintius 〈…〉〈…〉 to A. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.51

  Iupiter Imper••∣tor.
• * 1.52

  The lawes of Li∣cinius and Sex∣tius.
• * 1.53

  I forbid. It was the negative voice of the Tri∣bunes.
• * 1.54

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 Li 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.55

  [〈◊〉〈◊〉 propound] The 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.56

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.57

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.58

  The Oration of Appius Claudius, against the Tribunes of the Commons.
• * 1.59

  Appius speaks in to the person of Sextius or Licicinius, within these markes []
• * 1.60

  Now speaketh 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in his 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.61

  The Ascemuiti creased.
• * 1.62

  Q.Sextius, the first Comm••ner that was chosen Consul.