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 XXI. BOOKE OF THE HISTORIES OF T. LIVIVS of Padoa, from the foundation of the Cittie of Rome. (Book 21)

The Breviarie of L. Florus upon the one and twentieth Booke.

IN this booke are rehearsed the acts which passed in Italie, as touching the second Punicke warre, and how Anniball, the chiefe commaunder of the Carthaginians, contrarie to the accord of alli∣ance, passed over the river Iberus: by whom, Saguntum a citie belonging to the allies of the people of Rome, was in the eight moneth of the siege, forced by assault. For to complaine of those wrongs and ini••ries, Embassadors were sent to the Carthaginians. And for that they would not make sa∣tisfaction and amends therefore, warre was proclaimed against them. Anniball having passed over the mountaines Pyre••ti, and discomfited the Volscians, who made head against him, and would have empeached his passage, mounted the Alpes, and after hee had passed through them with great difficultie and paines, and repulsed also the French mountainers in sundrie ski••nisbes and battailes, he descended into Italie: and neere the river Ticinius, discomfited and dis••••aied the Romanes in a battaile of Cavallerie. In which conflict, when P. Corne∣lius Scipio was wounded, his sonne (the same who afterwards was surnamed Africanus) rescued him, and saved his life. Anniball after he had defaited the Romane armie a second time, neere the river Trebia, pussed over the Apennine: where his souldiers were mightly afflicted and distressed, by reason of soule weather and violence of storme and tem∣pest. Cn. Cornelius Scipio sped well in his warres against the Carthaginians within Spaine, and tooke prisoner Mago, the Generall commaunder of the enemies.

THe same may I well say, in the Preface and entrance of this one part of my worke, which most writers of histo∣ries have promised and made profession of, in the begin∣ning of the whole, to wit, That I will write the most fa∣mous and memorable warre that ever was, even that, which the Carthaginians under the conduct of Anni∣ball, fought with the people and State of Rome. For nei∣ther any other citties or nations are knowne to have war∣red together, more wealthie and puisiant than they; nor at any time ever, were they themselves so great, so strong in forces, and so mightie in meanes, as nowe they were. Moreover, they came not newly now, to wage war, with∣out knowledge of the prowesse and martiall skill, one of another; for triall they had made thereof sufficient alreadie, in the first punicke warre. Be∣sides so variable was the fortune of the field, so doubtfully were their battailes fought, that nee∣rer losse and daunger were they, who in the end wan the better, and atchieved the victorie. And to conclude if a man observe the whole course and proceeding of these their warres, their ma∣lice and hatred was greater in a manner than theirforces: whiles the Romans tooke foule skorn and disdaine, that they, whose hap before was to be vanquished, should unprovoked, begin warre afresh with the Conquerors; and the Carthaginians again were as mal-content, and throughlyf

offended, as taking themselves (notwithstanding they were overcome) to bee abused too much at [unspec G] their hands, by their prowd, insolent, and covetous rule over them. Over and besides all this, the report goeth, that Anniball being but nine yeares old, or thereabout, came fawning and flattering as wanton children doe, to his father Amilcar, that hee would take him with him into Spaine, at what time, as after the Affricane war ended, his father was offering sacrifice, readie to passe over thither with an armie: where he was brought to the altar side, and induced to lay his hand there∣upon, and to touch the sacrifice, and so to sweare, that so soone as ever he were able, he would be a professed and mortall enemie to the people of Rome. Vexed (no doubt) at the heart, was Amil∣car himselfe, a man of high spirit and great courage, for the losse of the islands Sicilie and Sar∣dinia: for not onely Sicilie was overhastily yeelded (as he thought) as despairing too soone of the state thereof, and doubting how it should be defended: but also Sardinia was by the cunning and [unspec H] fraudulent practise of the Romanes surprised out of the Carthaginians hands, whiles they were troubled with the commotion & rebellion of Affrick; and a Tribute besides imposed upon them. He being disquieted, I say, and troubled with these greefs and discontentments, so bare himselfe for five yeares space, in the Affricke warre, which insued immediately upon the peace concluded with the Romanes; and likewise after, in Spaine, for nine yeares together, enlarging ever still the dominion of Carthage; that all the world might fee, he intended and dessigned a greater warre than that he had in hand; and if God had spared him longer life, it should have beene well seene that the Carthaginians under the leading of Amilcar, would have made that warre upon Italie, which afterward they waged by the conduct of Anniball. But the death of Amilcar happening in so good season [for the Romanes] and the childhood and tendernonage of Annibal together, [unspec I] were the cause that this war was put off and deferred. In the meane time, between the father and the sonne, Asdruball bare all the rule for the space almost of eight years. This Asdruball had ben Amilcar his minion, growne highly into his grace and favour, at the first (as men say) for the very prime and flower of his youth: but afterwards, in regard of the singular towardnesse of a brave and haughtie mind, which soone appeared in him, and for his forwardnesse to action, hee was preferred to be his sonne in law, and married his daughter. Now, for as much as he was Amilcar his sonne in law, he was advaunced to the soveraigne conduct of the warre, with no good liking at all and consent of the Nobilitie and Peeres, but by the meanes and favour onely of the Bar∣chinefaction, which bare a great stroke, and might do all in all, among the souldiours and the common people. Who managed all his affaires, more by pollicie and sage counsell, than by [unspec K] force and violence: and using the authoritie and name of the Princes and great Lords of those countries, and by intertaining friendship with the cheefe rules, woon daily the hearts of new na∣tions still, and by that meanes enlarged the power and siegnorie of the Carthaginians in Spain, rather than by any warre & force of armes. But for all this peace with forraine States, he was ne∣ver the more sure of his owne life at hóme. For a certaine barbarous fellow, for anger that his maister and Lord was by him put to death, * 1.1 flew him in open place: and being laid hold on by them that were attendant about Asdrubal his person, he kept the same countenance still, as if he had escaped and gone cleare away: yea, * 1.2 and when hee was by cruell torments all mangled and torne, hee looked so cheerefully and pleasantly on the matter, as if he had seemed to smile; so far his joy of heart surpassed the paines and anguish of his bodie. With this Asdruball, for that hee [unspec L] had so singular a gift and wonderfull dexteritie, in solliciting and annexing unto his dominion the Nations aforesaid, the people of Rome had renued the league, upon these two capitulations and conditions; first, that the river * 1.3 Iberus should limit and determine the siegnories of them both: Item, that the Saguntines, seated in the middest between the territories of both Nations, should remaine free, and enjoy their auncient liberties.

No doubt at all there was now, but when a new Commander should succeed in the rownie of Asdruball, the favour of the people would goe cleare with the prerogative voice and choise of the souldiours: who presently brought young Anniball into the Generall his pavilion, and with exceeding great acclamation and accord of all, saluted him by the name of Captaine Generall. For this you must understand, that Asdruball by his letters missive had sent for him, being verie [unspec M] young, and hardly 14 yeares of age; yea, and the matter was debated first in the counsell house at Carthage, where they of the * 1.4 Barchine side, laboured & followed the matter earnestly, that Anni∣hall should be trained in warfare, & grow up to succeed his father in equal proesse and greatnesse. But Hanno the chiefe man of the contrarie faction; It is but meet and reason (quoth hee) that

[unspec A] Asdruball doth demaund: and yet for mine own part I thinke it not good, that his request should be granted. * 1.5 When they mused and mervailed much at this so doubtfull speech of his, and wist not what construction to make of it.

Why then, (quoth Hanno) to be plaine, That floure and beautie of youth, which Asdruball himselfe yeelded and parted with all sometimes unto Annibals father, for to use or abuse at his pleasure; the same he thinketh by good right he may cha∣lenge and have again, from the sonne, to make quittance: But it be seemeth not us, sot to acquaint our yoong youths with the campe, that under the colour, and in steed of their militarie institution and teaching, they abandon and give their bodies to serve the lust and appetite of the Generals. What? Is this the thing we feare, That the sonne of Amilcar should tarie too long erche see the excessive graundeur and soveraintie of his father, and the stately shew as it were of his roial∣tie? [unspec B] Or doubt wee, that wee shall not soone enough serve in all dutifull alleageance his na∣turall sonne, unto whose sonne in law, all our armies have been left (as it were) in lawfull right of in∣heritance? Nay, I am of opinion, and this is my judgement, That this youth be kept in awe at home, under obedience of lawes, under civile magistrates, and learne a while to live in equall con∣dition with the rest of the citizens and subjects; for feare least at one time or other, this little sparke doe burne outright and raise a mightie flame. A few, and those were, in manner all of the best fort and foundest judgement, accorded with Hanno.

But, as commonly it is seene, the grea∣ter number overweighed the better.

Thus Anniball was sent into Spaine, and immediatly at his first comming, drew all the whole armie after him; so highly he was regarded and beloved. The old soldiors beleeved verily, that [unspec C] Amilcar was alive againe, & come amongst them: they thought they beheld and saw the same vigor and spirit in his countenance and visage, the same quicknesse and livelinesse in his eiés, the same proportion, feature and lineaments of his face. And afterwards, within short time, he had so wrought and wound himselfe into their favour, that the late remembrance of his father, was the least matter of all others, that woon him grace and love among them. * 1.6 Never was there one and the selfe same nature, framed and fitted better, for two things that are in qualitie most con∣trarie; namely, to rule, and to obey. Whereby, a man could hardly discerne and judge, whe∣ther he was more deere untó the Generall for the one, or to the armie for the other. For neither Asdruball would make choise of any one before him, when there was some valiant service or brave exploit to be executed; nor the soldiors put more confidence in any other leader, nor go [unspec D] more boldly and resolutely to any enterprise, * 1.7 than under him. Most forward he was and hardie to all hazards and dangerous adventures: right provident and warie againe, at the verre point of perill and jeoperdie. No travaile was able to wearie and tire his bodie: no paines taking, could daunt and breake his heart. He could away with heat and cold alike. For his diet & feeding, he measured both his meat and drinke by his naturall appetite, and not by pleasure and delight∣some tast. For sleeping, for waking, day and night was all one with him. When he had once performed his service, and finished his exploit; if there were any spare time after, therein would he take his rest and repose: and that, should not be upon a soft bed neither, nor procured with great curiositie by still silence, and making no noise about him. Full often many a man hath seen him, lying on the hard and bare ground, under a good soldiors jacket and homely cassocke cast [unspec E] over him, even among the Sentinels and corps de gard. For his apparrell, it was not more costly nor braver than his fellowes and companions: mary, in his armour and horses he loved ever to be goodly be-seene above all other. Amongst footmen and horsemen both, he would alwaies be a great way formost. And to conclude, in giving a charge upon the enemie, and to begin the battaile, he was by his good will ever the first, and when the fight was done, the last man seen to re∣tire out of the field. Of these noble qualities and manly vertues, he had not so many, but there were as great vices and imperfections in him againe, * 1.8 to counterpoise the same. Crueltie most sa∣vage and inhumane, falshood and trecherie more than * 1.9 Punicke: no truth, no honestie, no feare of God, no regard of oth, no conscience, nor religion.

Disposed thus as he was, and inclined by nature, to vertues and vices, he served full three years [unspec F] under Generall Asdruball. During which time, he omitted & forgat no one thing, that was meet either to be executed or enterprised by a man that was himselfe another day to be a captain and chiefe Commander in the warres. From the verie first day that he was chosen and declared Lord General; as if at the same instant, Italie had ben the province assigned unto him, as if, I say, he had received commission to warre with the Romanes, he thought good to make no delaies, forfeare

least haply whiles he lingred and slacked the time, some mischance might prevent his de∣signes [unspec G] and cut him short, like as it had overtaken his father first, and Asdruball afterwards: but pre∣sently determined to make war upon the Saguntines, by assailing whom, the Romanes no doubt were touched, and would take armes and enter into the quarrell. But first he led his armie into the marches of the a 1.10 Olcades (a nation beyond Iberus, rather siding & taking part with the Car∣thaginians, than under their jurisdiction) that he might not seeme to have shot at the Sagun∣tines and intended ought against them directly: but that by order and course of his affaires, after he had subdued the countries bordering upon them, he had been drawne (as it were) for vicinitie and neighbourhead sake to that warre, and to joine them also with the rest unto the Empire. And first he wan by force, and sacked b 1.11 Carreia, a rich cittie, the seat towne and chiefe place of all that nation. Whereupon, other meaner and smaller cities also, for feare came under his obedience, [unspec H] and yeelded to pay tribute. His armie then after these victories, and enriched with spoile and pil∣lage, was brought backe to new c 1.12 Carthage, there for to winter. Where he made sure unto him the hearts and affectionate love, as well of his owne countrimen as of the allies, partly by bestow∣ing the pillage liberally among them, and partly by making true paiment of soldiours wages for the time past. And then in the verie prime of the spring, he went forward to warre upon the d 1.13 Vaccei. He forced by assault e 1.14 Hermandica and Arbacula, two townes of the* 1.15 Carteij. Arba∣cula by the manhood and multitude of the towesmen held out a long time. But certaine fugi∣tives that were fled from Hermandica, having rallied themselves, & joined with other exiled per∣sons of the Olcades, a nation the summer before subdued, raised also the g 1.16 Carpetanes to take armes: and set upon Anniball, in his returne from the Vacce; and not farre from the river h 1.17 Ta∣gus, troubled and disordred his march, heavily charged with spoile and bootie. Anniball forbare [unspec I] to fight, and encamped himselfe upon the banke of the river: and so soone as the enemies were in their first sleepe, and all still & husht, passed over with his armie at the fourd: and after he had pitched his camp so farre off from the river side, as that his enemies might have rowme enough to march away besides him, he determined to set upon them as they should passe over the river. To his horsemen he gave commandement to charge upon the regiment of footmen, so soon as they perceived them to have taken the water: and upon the banke he arranged fortie Elephants afront them. There were of the Carpetanes, counting the aides and succours of the Olcades and Vaccej, 100000 strong: an armie invincible, if they had fought on even & indifferent ground. Who being both by nature fierce and courageous, and for multitude confident; presumptuous [unspec K] besides, upon their imagination that the enemie was retired for feare; supposed that the onely stay of their victorie, was, because the river ran between: and setting up a shour and outcrie, with∣out direction of any leader, in all disorder they ran into the river here and there, everie man what way was next him. Now from the other side of the banke, a great troupe of horsemen were en∣tred into the river, encountred them in the mids of the chanell, and fought with great advantage. For whereas the footmen unsteadie and not able to keepe fast footing, and hardly trusting the fourd, might easely be cast aside & overturned, even by naked horsemen, if they did but put forth and pricke forward their horses it skilled not how: the horsemen on the other side having their bodies at libertie, and able to weld their weapon, with their horses under them standing sure even in the mids of the streame and whirlepooles, might with case either fight close hand to hand, or [unspec L] assaile the enemies aloose. Many of them besides perished in the water: some by the whirling waves of the river were driven upon the enemies, and by the Elephants troded under foot, and crushed to death. The hinmost, who might with more safety recover their owne banke, after they were rallied together into one from divers places, as feare had scattered them; before they could upon so great a fright, take heart and come againe to themselves, Anniball who with a soure square battaillon had entred the river, forced to slie from the banke: and when he had wasted the countrie, within few daies brought the Carpetanes also under his obedience.

And now all beyond Iberus was subject to the Carthaginians, the Saguntines onely excep∣ted. With whom as yet he would not seeme to warre: howbeit to minister some cause and occa∣sion thereof, quarrels were picked, and feeds of dissentions sowne between them and their neigh∣bours, [unspec M] namely the * 1.18 Turdetanes. Vnto whose aid, when he was come, that was himselfe the sower of all the variance, and had set them together by the eares; and when it appeared plainly that it was not a matter of right to be tried by law, but an occasion rather sought of fight and open war; then the Saguntines sent their embassadors to Rome, for to crave aid against that warre, which

[unspec A] doubtlesse was at hand. The Consuls at that time of Rome, were P. Cornelius Scipio, and Titus Sempronius Longus, who having brought the embassadors into the Counsell house, and propo∣sed matters unto the L.L. there, concerning the weale publick, and decreed to send their embas∣sadors into Spaine to take survey, and looke into the state of their allies: who also if they thought it meere, should give Anniball warning, not to meddle with their consederates, and molest the Saguntines; and withall, to sayle over to Carthage into Affrick, and there make relation of the complaints and greevances of the allies of the people of Rome: when I say, this embassage was decreed, but yet not sent, newes came sooner than all men looked for, that * 1.19 Saguntum was alrea∣die besieged. Then was the matter propounded new again before the Senat. Some were of mind to dispatch the Consuls unto the provinces of Spaine and Africke, with commission to make [unspec B] warre both by sea and land: Others thought better, to bend all their forces wholie into Spaine against Anniball. There were againe of opinion, that so great and weightie an enterprise was not hand over head, and rashly to be attempted; but rather that they should attend the returne of the embassadors out of Spaine: and this advise that seemed most safe, was held for the better, and tooke place. And therefore, so much the sooner were these embassadors P. Valerius Flaccus, and Q. Rebius Pamphibar, addressed unto Anniball before Saguntum, with direction, from thence to go forward to Carthage (in case he would not desist and give over war) and for to demaund the captaine himselfe, for amends and satisfaction of breaking the league. But whiles the Romanes were amused about these consultations and decrees, * 1.20 Saguntum was by this time with all forcible meanes assalted. This citie of all other most wealthie and rich, stood beyond Iberus, situate al∣most [unspec C] a mile from the sea. The inhabitants are sayd to have had their beginning out of they land * 1.21 Zacynthus: and some among them, were descended from Ardea, a citie of the Rutilians: but they grew within short time to this puissance & wealth of theirs, partly by the fruits & revenewes of their lands, and partly by the traffick and gaine of their merchandise, and commodities trans∣ported by sea, as also by the great affluence and increase of people, and lastly, by their streight rule of discipline, whereby they observed their troth and loyaltie with their allies, even to their owne ruine and finall destruction.

Anniball after he had invaded their confines as an enemie, and by way of hostilitie, with his armie overrun and wasted their countrie, besieged and assailed the citie three waies. There was one canton or angle of the wall shooting out into a more plaine and open valley, than any other [unspec D] place all about: against which he meant to raise certaine mantlets or fabricks, under which he might approch with the Ram to batter the wall. But as the place farre from the wall, was even enough and handsome for such engins of batterie to be driven upon: so after that they came to the proofe and execution indeed, the successe answered nothing to the enterprise begun. For be∣sides that there was a mightie towre overlooked and commaunded them, the wall it selfe (as in a place doubted and suspected) was more fortified and raysed higher there, than elsewhere: and also the chosen youth and ablest men were bestowed there, to make more forcible resistance, where there was like to be most trouble and danger. And first with shot of darts and quarels, and such like, they put the enemie back, and would not suffer the pioners and labourers in any place to entrench or rayse rampiers in saffetie. In processe also, they shot not from the wall only and [unspec E] that towre, and shewed themselves there in armes for defense, but also their harts served them to sallic forth, and to breake into the gards of the enemies, yea and to enter upon their tren∣ches and fabricks. In which skirmishes there dyed not many more Saguntines than Cartha∣ginians. But so soone as Anniball himselfe, approching unadvisedly under the wall fortuned to be wounded greevously in the forepart of his thigh, with a dart or light javelin, and therewith fell to the ground; they all about him fled so fast, and were so skared, that they had like to have geven over quite & abandoned their mantilets, & other fabricks aforesayd. After this, for some few dayes, whiles their Generall was under cure of his hurt, they lay at siege rather, than followed the assault. In which meane time, as they rested from skirmish, so they ceased not to invent new devises, and to prepare new fabricks. Whereupon the assault began againe more hote than be∣fore: [unspec F] and in many parts at once they fell to raise rolling mantelets, so many & so thick, that some places would not receive them; and withall, to drive the Ram against the walls. Anniball had men good store, for it is thought he was 150000 in campe, strong. The townesmen with devising meanes to defend, and fee to every place, began to have their hands full: but all would not serve, For now were the walls beaten with the rams, and many parts thereof shaken and battered: and

at one place above the rest, by continuall batterie there was such a breach, as the towne lay open [unspec G] and naked to the enemie. After that, three turrets, and all the courtine betweene, fell downe with a mightie and horrible crash, in somuch as the Carthaginians thought verily that with that rush the towne had bene woon: By which breach, as if the wall had protected both parties before, they ran forth together on each side to fight. The battaile was not like to a tumultuarie skirmish, such as are wont to be about assaults of cities, by the occasion and advantage of the one part or the other; but a very set and raunged field (as it were) in an open ground betweene the breaches of the wall, and the houses of the towne, that stood a pretie way distant within-forth. Of one side they were pricked forward with hope, on the other with despaire; whiles Anniball thought ve∣rily that he was maister of the towne already, if he held on but a little longer; and the Saguntines seeing their towne bare, and voyd of walls, opposed their bodies in the breach, not one step∣ping [unspec H] back a soote, least in the space betweene he should let in the enemie. The more fiercely therefore, and the thicker and closer that they fought together on both parts, the more were wounded; and there was not a dart could light in vaine betweene their bodies and their ar∣mour, * 1.22 but it did mischiefe. The Saguntines used a weapon called Falarica, in manner of a dart, which they let slie & launced from them, having a long shaft or steale, round and even every where, but toward the one end, where it was headed with iron, & bound about with towe, & smea∣red with pitch. The yron head was three foote long, that it might pierce both harnesse and bodie through. But the greatest skare that it did was this, although it stuckfast in the targuet, and en∣tred nor into the bodie, that being driven and flung, when the middle part was set on fire, by the motion thereof as it flew, it gathered much more fire, forced the souldier to forsake his armour, [unspec I] and exposed him disarmed and naked to the shot following. Well, the fight continued doubt∣full a long time, by reason that the Saguntines tooke better heart unto them, because they had rested beyond their hope and expectation: and the Carthaginians toke themselves vanqui∣shed, for that they had not gotten the victorie, and better hand: whereupon, the townesmen all at once set up a crie, and beat the enemies back to the very breaches, and ruines of the wall, and from thence thrust them out cleane, whiles they were thus encombred and affrighted, yea and at last discomfited them, put them to flight, and chased them as farre as their campe.

In this meane while newes came, that there were embassadors arrived from Rome: unto whom Anniball dispatched certaine messengers to meete with them at sea side, and to give them to understand, That neither they might safely with securitie of their persons come among the [unspec K] broiles of so many barbarous & fierce nations; nor their maister Anniball amid those dangerous and troublesome affaires, had any leysure to attend or give audience unto embassages. He knew full well, that the embassadors being not received and enterteined, would straight to Carthage. Whereupon, he addressed aforehand his letters and courriers to the chiefe of the Barchine faction, to frame and prepare the minds of that side, so, as they of the other part might not gra∣tifie, or do any thing in favour of the Romanes. By which meanes, besides that they were neither admitted by Anniball, nor audience given them, that embassage also was in vaine, & tooke no ef∣fect at Carthage. Onely Hanno, notwithstanding the whole bodie of the Senate was against him, spake with great silence and assent of the hearers, by reason of his authoritie and reputation, and pleaded to the point of the breach of league, * 1.23 in this wife.

I have, quoth he, foretold and warned [unspec L] you in the name and for the love of the gods, who are the witnesses and judges of covenants and confederacies, I have I say, admonished you, that ye should not send Amilcar his sonne, or any of his breed unto the campe: for that neither the ghost and spirit, nor the progenie and race of that man can rest and be quiet; nor the Romans league will ever be assured and established, so long as there remained one alive of the Barchine name and familie. But sent ye have for all my words, unto your armies, a youth boyling in ambition, inflamed with a covetous desire of being a King, and one that seeth no other way thereto, but by bruing one warre after another; to live garded with armies and legions about him. In which action of yours, ye have as it were ministred dry fewell, and put oyle to the fire: ye have, I say, sed that fire, wherewith ye now all are set a burning. Your armies now besiege Saguntum, from which by covenant and vertue of the [unspec M] league they are debarred. Within a while and shortly, will the Romane legions lve in siege be∣fore Carthage, under the conduct and guidance, no doubt, of those gods, by whose support and aid in the former warre, they were revenged for the breach of the accord and alliance. What? know ye not yet, either your enemie, or your selves, or the fortune of both nations? This good

[unspec A] Captaine and gentle Generall, forsooth, of your making, would not admit and receive into his campe, Embassadours comming from our allies, and in the behalfe also of our allies: wherein he abolished the law of Nations. Howbeit, they having taken a repulse, from whence even the ve∣ry Embassadours of enemies, are not wont to be repelled, are come unto you, and by vertue of their league demaund amends of trespasse, and restitution of satisfaction for their domages. And presuppose the State bee not touched nor culpable in this Action, they require no more. but to have the authour himselfe in person, who is the offender. The more gently they deale, and the longer it is ere they begin, the more obstinate they will be, and continue with greater rigor (I fear me) if they once begin. Set before your eies the Islands * 1.24 Aegates, & * 1.25 Eryx: and what for these foure and twentie yeares past, ye have endured both by land and sea. Neither was this beardlesse [unspec B] boy our captaine their, but his father Amilcar himselfe, even a second Mars, as these his sup∣posts would have him. But what of that? We could not then, according to our league, hold our hands, and let Tarentum in Italie alone; like as now we are doing with Saguntum. Therefore, both God and man tooke the matter in hand, and vanquished us in the end: and when wee were at ar∣guing and debating the case with discourse of words about this point, Whether Nation of the twaine had broken the league? the event of warre, as an indifferent and equall judge, awarded vi∣ctorie where the right was. And Carthage it is, against which, Anniball even now hath reared mantelets, towers, and other engines of assault: even now, battereth & shaketh he Carthage walls with the Ram. The ruins of Saguntum (God graunt I be a false Prophet) will fal upon our heads, and the warre begun with the Saguntines, we must maintaine against the Romanes. How then? [unspec C] (will some man say) shall wee yeeld Anniball unto them? I know well, how small my authoritie is in this point, by reason of the old grudge and enmitie betweene me & his father deceased. How∣beit, as I reioiced, that Amilcar was dead, for that if hee had lived still, wee should ere now have warred with the Romans: so this very youth, an impe of his, I hate & detest as the very furie and firebrand of this war: whom I would have, by my good wil, not only to be rendred unto them, for to purge & expiare the breach of league; but if no man would chalenge him for to be punished, I would award, that he should be caried and transported as far as there is sea or land, & to be sent away thither, from whence we might not once hear of him againe, & where he might never trou∣ble the quiet & peaceable state of this citie any more. Over and besides, my opinion & resolution is, that some Embassadors be sent presently to Rome, to satisfie the Senat: and others also, with a [unspec D] message to Anniball, that he withdraw his forces from Saguntum: & with commission, to render up Annibal himselfe into the Romans hands, according to the tenor of the league: & a third Em∣bassage likewise to the Saguntines, for to make restitution and amends for their harms & losses al∣readie sustained.

When Hanno had made an end of his speech, it was altogether needlesse, that any one man there should make replie, and debate the matter with him by way of Oration, the whole Senat was so possessed alreadie & wrought for Anniball: and with one voice they blamed Hanno, and sounded it out, That he had made a bitterer speech, and more favoring of an enemie, than Flaccus Valerius himselfe the Romane Embassadour. After this, the Romane Embassadors had this answere returned, That the warre began by the Saguntines, and not by Anniball. Also, that the people of Rome offered them injurie, in preferring the Saguntines before the most an∣cient [unspec E] alliance of the Carthaginians. Whiles the Romanes thus spent time in sending Embassa∣ges, Anniball having wearied his men, what with skirmishes; and what with trenching and raising mounts and fabrickes, he gave them rest some few daies, and bestowed certaine good guards to∣ward and keepe the mantelets and other engines of batterie. In the meane season he encouraged his souldiours, and set their hearts on fire, partly by pricking and provoking them to anger against their enemies, and partly by tilling them on, and alluring them with hope of great re∣wards. But after he had once in a generall assemblie, made proclamation, That the spoile and pil∣lage should be the souldiours share; they were all so enkindled and enflamed, that if presently he had sounded the signall of battaile, it seemed, that no force in the world had been able to resist them. The Saguntines, as they had some rest from skirmish, and continued certainued daies, nei∣ther [unspec F] assailing nor assailed: so they gave not over labouring night and day, for to make up a newe wall and countermure, on that side of the towne which lay open by reason of breaches. But after this, grew the assault more hote and furious than before: neither wist they well (the shouts and al'armes were so divers & dissonant on every side) whether to come first, or where was most need of helpe and succour. Anniball himselfe was present in person to encourage and exhort his sol∣diours

where as the rouling tower was driven, which was so high, that it overlooked all the mures [unspec G] and countrefabrickes of the cittie, and being once approched neere the wals, furnished as it was in every loft and storie, with ordinance of quarell shot, brakes, and other artillerie, beat the defen∣dants from off the wals, so as none durst abide upon them. Then Anniball taking the time, & sup∣posing that he had now a good oportunitie presented unto him, sent about 500 Affricanes that were pioners with picke-axes, mattocks and such like tooles, to undermine the wal, yea, and to dig into it from the very foundation. And that was no hard matter to do, for that the cement or mor∣ter was not hardened and bound with lime, but tempered with earth and clay, after the old maner of building: and therefore the wall came tumbling downe before it was hewen and wrought in∣to: and through the wide breaches, whole troupes of armed souldiours entered the towne: and withall, they seized one high place above the rest, whereon they planted their artillerie and or∣dinance [unspec H] of slings and brakes, and cast a wall about it, that they might have within the very cittie a fort and bastillon of their owne, like a castle to overlooke all. The Saguntines likewise, raised another mure withinforth along that side where the towne as yet was not taken. So that on both sides they made fortifications, and also fought with all their might and main. But the Saguntines defending the inner parts, by little and little brought their towne daily into a smaller compasse. And by that meanes, as also by reason of the long siege; as scarsitie and want of all things grewe more and more, so the expectation of forraine aide and succour was everie day lesse than other: the Romans their onely hope, being so farre off, and their enemies so neere on every hand. How∣beit, the suddaine rode and journey of Anniball against the * 1.26 Oretanes and * 1.27 Carpetanes, refre∣shed for a while their troubled and afflicted spirits. These two nations being risen upon a discon∣tentment [unspec I] of a streight muster and rigorous levie of souldiours, had staied and detained those Mu∣ster-maisters, that had in commission to take up all sufficient and able men for the warres, and so, made some shew & feare of rebellion: but being prevented in the beginning by the speedie com∣ming of Anniball, were soone quiet, and laid downe their armes. But the assault of Saguntum continued neverthelesse. For Maharball, Himilco his sonne, whom Anniball had left behind as Lieutenant, so bestirred himselfe, that neither the townesmen nor the enemie found the misse or absence of the Generall. This Maharball had made some fortunat skirmishes, and with three rammes shaken a good part of the wall, so as hee shewed to Anniball at his returne, all lying along and every place full of fresh ruines. Whereupon the armie was presently brought against the verie castle of the cittie, where began a cruell and bloudie conflict, with the slaughter of ma∣ny [unspec K] on both sides, and one part of the said fortresse was forced and woon.

Afterwards there was some treatie of peace and agreement, by meanes of two persons, Al∣con a Saguntine, and Alorcus a Spaniard, and some small hope there was of it. Alcon supposing hee could somewhat prevaile by way of request and entreating, without knowledge of the Saguntines, departed away by night to Anniball. But after that hee saw, that with all his weeping he could doe no good, but that heavie and intollerable articles and capitulations of peace were exhibited, as from a wrathfull conquerour; of an Orator, proved to be a very traitour, and remai∣ned still in the campe with the enemies, saying, that he was sure to die, whosoever should moove the Saguntines to peace, under those conditions. For demaunded it was of the Saguntines, Imprimis, to make restitution to the Turdetanes of all harmes and losses. Item, to deliver up all [unspec L] their gold and silver. Item, to quit the towne, and depart but with one sute of apparrell a peece; and there to dwell, where the Carthaginians would appoint. When Alcon avouched plainely, that the Saguntines would never accept of peace with these conditions, Alorcus replied againe and said, That seeing all things els now failed them, their hearts also must needs come downe, and faile likewise; and therewith promised to deliver unto them the tenour of the said peace, and to bee a mediatour and dealer in the compassing thereof. At that time he served Anniball as a pri∣vate souldiour: howbeit, a publicke friend he was, and an host and guest of old to the Saguntines. Who having in fight of all men yeelded up his offensive armes, to the warders of the enemies, and passed the rampiers, was brought (for so himselfe desired) before the Governour and Provost of Saguntum. Thether came running presently, a number of all sorts of people: but after the rest of the multitude were commanded to void, Alorcus was called into their Counsell house, and having audience given, * 1.28 made this or the: like speech unto them.

If Alcon your countriman and fellow cittizen, as he came from you to Anniball for to treat about peace, had likewise brought backe againe unto you from Anniball the conditions and articles of peace, I needed not to have

[unspec A] taken this jorney; who am come unto you neither as an Orator from Annibal, ne yet as a fugitive. But seeing he, hath remained with the enemie, either through your default or his own, I know not whither: the pretended & fained causelesse feare, himselfe is to blame; but if they stand in daunger that report a truth vnto you, then are ye in great fault. I therfore, to the end ye should not be igno∣rant, but that there are conditions offred to you of life, of safetie, & of peace, in regard of old ami∣tie and acquaintance, in regard (I say) of mutuall intertainement long time between us, am now come unto you. And that ye may beleeve, that whatsoever you shal hear delivered from me, I speak it for your good, and for the favour of no man else; this one thing, if no more, may assure you, that neither so long as ye were able to make resistance by your own strength, nor all the while that yee hoped for aide from the Romanes, I never made word or mention of peace unto you. But [unspec B] seeing now, that yee have not any hope at all from the Romanes, and that your owne forces and citie wals, are able no longer to defend you: I present unto you a peace, more necessarie, I con∣fesse, than equall and reasonable. Wherof you may have some hope, in these terms; namely, if as Anniball offereth and presenteth it like a conquerour, so you will heare of it; & accept therof as conquered: if I say, yee will not make reckning of that which you forgoe as a losse and damage (seeing by extremitie all is the victors) but that which is left, as gaine and advantage, yea and fre∣ly given unto you. Your towne, whereof a great part is ruinated by him, and which he hath taken in manner all, that he mindeth to put you by: your lands and possessions he leaveth unto you, purposing to set you out a plot of ground, whereupon you may build yourselves a new cittie. Your gold and silver all, as well common treasure as private monies and plate, he commaundeth [unspec C] to be brought unto him: the bodies of your wives and children he is content to spare and save undefiled: upon this condition that you wil depart without armour, and with a double suit of ap∣parrell a peece, and no more. These are the impositions that your enemie (a conquerour) de∣maundeth: Which albeit they be hard and grievous, yet your fortune and state is such, as you must allow thereof and be content. For mine owne part, I am not out of hope, but when you have put all into his hands, he will deale better by you, & remit somwhat of these conditions. But I thinke yee were better to abide all this, rather than your bodies to be murdred, your wives and children to be ravished, haled and forced before your faces, as the law and manner of warre requireth.

To the hearing of this Oration the people had flocked about, and by little and little enter∣mingled [unspec D] their own assemblie with the Senators: and all of a suddain the chiefe of them withdrew themselves and departed, before answere was given: and brought all their silver and gold, as well publicke as private, into the market place: and when they had cast it into a great fire made ha∣stilie for that purpose, most of them threw themselves into it headlong after. Whereupon there being a feare and trouble alreadie throughout the whole cittie: behold, another outcrie besides and noise was heard from the castle. For a certaine tower that had beene a long time battered and shaken, fell down; and at the breach therof, a band of Carthaginians made entrie, and gave signe to their General that the citie was abandoned of the ordinarie watchmen and corps de gard of the enemies, and altogether lay open and naked. Annibal supposing it was no wisedom to neg∣lect and stacke so good an opportunitie, with all his forces at once assailed the cittie, and wan it [unspec E] in the turning of an hand: * 1.29 and presently gave order that all above fourteene years of age should be put to the sword. A cruell commaundement, no doubt, but yet needfull, as afterwards is was well seene in the end and upshot of all. For who would have spared and taken pitie of those, that either shut themselves with their wives and children into their houses, and burnt them over their owne heads, or in their armour, gave not over fight before they died? Thus was the towne woon with exceeding store of pillage within it. And albeit much was spoiled for the nonce by the owners, & that in the massacre and execution they had no respect of age in the furie of their anger: and for all that, the prisoners fell to the soldiors share; yet certaine it is, that of the goods sold in port-sale, there arose a good round peece of mony: and much rich houshold stuffe and costlie apparrell was sent to Carthage.

[unspec F] Some there be that write, how Saguntum was woon the eight Month after the siege began: and that from thence Anniball departed to winter in new * 1.30 Carthage: as also, that the fifth moneth after he departed from Carthage, he arrived in Italie. Which being so; it cannot be, that P. Corne∣lius and T. Sempronius should be the Consuls, unto whom both in beginning of the siege, the Sa∣guntine Embassadors were sent; and who also in their year of government fought with Anniball,

the one neere the river * 1.31 Ticinus, and both together a good while after, at * 1.32 Trebia. And wee [unspec G] must say, that either all these things were atchieved in shorter time a good deale, or else that Sa∣guntum in the beginning of that yeare, wherein P. Cornelius and T. Sempronius were Consuls, be∣gan not to be besieged; but finally was forced and woon. For the battaile at Trebia could not be so long after, as to fall in the yeare wherein Cn. Servilius and C. Flaminius were Consuls. For that Flaminius entred his Consulship at Ariminum, and was created by T. Sempronius, Consull, who after the battaile of Trebia came to Rome to elect Consuls and after the Election was en∣ded, returned againe to his armie, into the wintering harbours.

About the same time, as well the Embassadours which returned from Carthage, brought word to Rome that there was nothing but warre: as also tidings came, of the destruction of Sa∣guntum. And so greatly grieved and sorrowed the Senators, and pitied withall their allies thus [unspec H] unworthily massacred, so ashamed in themselves they were, that they had not sent aid in time, so deepely offended and incensed with indignation against the Carthaginians, yea and so mightily feared the losse of the verie maine chance at home, as if the enemie had beene already at the gates of the cittie: that in verie deed, having their minds possessed at one time, with so many troubles, they rather trembled and quaked for feare, than fetled themselves to consulta∣tion and counsell. For they considered and saw very well, that neither a more fierce and warlike enemie ever encountred with them: nor the state of Rome was at any time so restie, so feeble, and so undisposed to warre. Moreover, it was commonly said, that the * 1.33 Sardi * 1.34 Corsi, * 1.35 Histri, and * 1.36 Illyrici had rather challenged the Romanes, and made bravadoes of warre, than exercised and toiled them in any hard conflicts: as for the Gauls they were but tumults, rumors, & al'arms which [unspec I] they made, and no warres indeed: but the Carthaginians their enemies, they were old beaten soldiors, inured and hardened for this 23 yeares in most difficult service of warre, amongst the Spanish nations, and went away ever with victory: first trained and practised under Amilcar, then under Asdruball, and now lastly under the conduct of Anniball, a right hardie and valiant cap∣taine. Considering moreover, that now he commeth fresh from the ruine of Saguntum, a most rich cittie, and passeth streight waies over Iberus: drawing after him a traine of so many nations of the Spaniards, exercised alreadie by him in the warres: and will no doubt raise the Gaules, a people at all times readie to take armes: so as now they were to wage warre in Italie, with no more but all the world besides, yea and under the walles of Rome, for the defense of the cittie. [unspec K]

Now had the Provinces beene nominated & appointed before to the Consuls: but then were they commaunded by casting lots, to part them between them. To Cornelius fell Spaine: To Sempronius Affricke and Sicilie. Likewise decreed it was, that for that yeare, there should be levied six Legions of Romans: and of allies, as many as they thought good: also that as great a navie as might be, should be rigged and set out. So there were enrolled 24000 Romane footmen, and of horsemen 1800: of allies 44000 foot, and 4000 horse: 220 gallies, with five course of oares on a side, and twentie foists, were set a flote. After this, a bill was preferred unto the people, that it might please them to determine and graunt, that warre should be proclaimed against, the people of Carthage. And in regard of that warre, there was also a solemne supplication hol∣den through the cittie: wherein the people adored and praied the gods to prosper and bring [unspec L] to an happie end, this warre which the people of Rome had determined. And betwixt the Con∣suls thus were the forces divided: Sempronius had the conduct of two Legions, consisting of foure thousand foot, and three hundred horse a peece; also of allies sixteen thousand foot, one thousand and eight hundred horse, besides 160 gallies, & twelve barks or foists. With this power for land and sea service, was Sempronius sent into Sicilie, from thence to passe over into Affricke, in case the other Consull were able to impeach the Carthaginians for comming into Italie. Cor∣nelius had the charge of a smaller power: for that L. Manlius the Pretor, was sent in person into France with a sufficient armie: but in the number of ships especially, was Cornelius skanted. 60 gallies of five banks of ores he had, and no more, (for it was supposed that the enemie would nei∣ther come by sea, nor fight in that kind of service) and two Romane Legions with the full pro∣portion [unspec M] of horsemen, * 1.37 and 14000 footmen of allies, with 1200 men of armes. That Province of France (in those parts where the Carthaginian warre was expected) had that yeare two Legi∣ons of Romane footmen, 14000 allies, besides 1000 horse from them, and 600 of the Ro∣manes. When all things were thus prepared, to the end that before warre began, it might ap∣ppeare

[unspec A] they dealt by order of law, and with justice; and that all due complements might be perfor∣med, they sent certaine grave & ancient personages in Embassie into Affrick, to wit, Q. Fabius, M. Livius, L. Aemylius, C. Licinius, and Q. Bebius, First, to demaund and know of the Carthagini∣ans, Whither Anniball by their publick warrant and authoritie, besieged & assailed Saguntum? then, if they avowed the act, and stood to it (as they were like to do) confessing that it was done by the counsell of the State; to give defiance, and proclaime open warre against them. The Ro∣manes being arrived at Carthage, had audience given in their Senate house: where, after Q. Fa∣bius had briefly demaunded nothing els, but that one thing which he had in charge and com∣mission, then a principall Senator among the Carthaginians stood up and sayd.

Your former Embassage, * 1.38 my maisters of Rome, was even as vaine as this, when ye required [unspec B] and would needes have Anniball to be yeelded unto you; as if he had beseeged Saguntum of his owne head.

And as for this, that you come with now, howsoever in words it seeme more mild and smooth, in very deede and in truth it is more rude and rigorous: for then, was Anniball onely charged and demaunded to justice; but now are we both urged to acknowledge a fault, and also forced to make restitution and satisfaction out of hand; as if we had avowed and confessed the action. For mine owne part, of this mind am I, that the case ought thus to be laid, and the que∣stion brought to this issue, not whether Saguntum was besieged by a private person; or publick counsell; but whether by right, or wrongfully. For to enquire and examine whether our citizen and subject have done this by our advise, or of himselfe, pertaineth to us alone, as also to censure and punish him accordingly: with you we are to debate this point onely, Whether [unspec C] it might stand with the league to do it, or no. And therefore since it pleaseth you, that we should dispute and distinguish, betweene the action of a Generall, warranted by the pub∣lick state, and an enterprise proceeding from his owne motife; ye shall understand, that there was indeede a league betweene you and us, contracted by Luctatius the Consull, wherein there is a clause, comprising the allies of both parties: as concerning the Saguntines (who as then were none of your confederates) there was not one word at all therein: but in that league (ye will say) that was contracted with Asdruball, the Saguntines are expressely named and ex∣cepted: to which I have nothing to pleade, but even that which I have learned of you. For yee your selves denied, that ye were bound to stand to that accord which C. Luctatius your Consull first made with us, because it passed neither by consent of the nobles, nor graunt of the people. [unspec D] Whereupon, there was another league anew drawne out, and by publick agreement enacted. If you then, be not tied to observe your leagues, unlesse they be auctorised by the nobles, or ratified by the people; no more can the league of Asdruball oblige us, which he concluded with∣out our privitie and knowledge. Forbeare therefore to speake either of Saguntum, or Iberus; and what your mind hath so long conceived, let it hatch now at length, and bring it forth. Then Q. Fabius the Romane Embassador, having made a hollow lap within the plait and fold of his side gowne, Here quoth he, within this lappet, we present and offer warre and peace unto you, take whether ye will.

At which word, they all cried out at once with as great stomacke and boldnesse: Mary even which you will your selfe. Whereat he let his robe loose againe, Why then, there is warre quoth he, take it amongst you; Let come say they all againe, and [unspec E] welcome be it; and as willingly as we accept thereof, so shall we follow and manage it as throughly.

This direct demaund, and round denouncing of warre, seemed more for the honor of the Romans, than to make much dispute and argument about the right of the cause, and of the co∣venants; a vaine matter before, but now especially, after the winning and destruction of Sagun∣tum. For if the question were to be decided by words and reasoning, that league of Asdruball which was exchanged for the former of Luctatius, was not the same, nor the tenor thereof to be compared: seeing that in the accord of Luctatius, this branch and proviso was expressely ad∣ded, [That it should stand good, and be ratified, if the people approved thereof:] but in this of Asdruball, there was no such condition at all: and besides, the covenant for so many yeares space [unspec F] during his life, was so established and confirmed, and no word to the contrarie; that when the very maker and author thereof was dead, there was no change and alteration. And yet, put case they should have stood upon the former alliance; the Saguntines were therein well enough comprised and provided for, in that the allies of either part were excepted and comprehended. For neither was this clause added [They who at that time were allies] nor yet were they excepted

against, who afterwards should become, or be admitted allies. And seeing that it was lawfull to [unspec G] entertaine new confederates, who is it that would judge it reasonable, either that no man should be received unto amitie for any good desert whatsoever; or being once received into protection, should not be defended accordingly: Provided alwayes, that no allies of the Carthaginians should either be sollicited to rebellion, or received againe, if of themselves they once revolted.

The Romane Embassadors, as they were commanded at Rome, passed the seas from Car∣thage into Spaine, for to visit all the cities, and to see whether they could either draw them to their societie, or withdraw them from the Carthaginians. And first they came to the Bargusians, where being courteously entertained (for weary they were of the Carthaginians government) they stirred up many other nations beyond Iberus, to have a desire to change for a new world. From thence they came to the Volscians, whose notable answere reported throughout all [unspec H] Spaine, * 1.39 turned away all other States from banding with the Romanes: for thus in a solemne as∣semblie a sage & auncient father among them framed his answere.

With what face can ye (Ro∣mans) require us to preferre your friendship and amitie before the Carthaginians? seeing that the Saguntines who did the same, have bene more cruelly by you their allies betrayed, than by their enemies the Carthaginians destroyed? By my advise go and seeke you consederates there, where the wofull calamitie and miserie of Saguntum is not knowne. The lamentable ruines of which citie, as it is a dolefull example, so it shall be a notable warning to all nations of Spaine, that no man ever after repose trust in the protection and societie of the Romanes.

Whereupon, they were commanded to depart the borders of the Volscians immediatly, and in no Diet or Councell of Spaine, had they afterwards any better entertainement, and more courteous lan∣guage. [unspec I] Thus having in vaine gone through all Spaine, they tooke their way into Gaule: where they saw a strange sight, and a fearefull fashion: for all in armour (such was the guise and manner of the countrie) they cameto their publick assemblies: & there, these embassadors after they had set out in goodly words the greatnesse and glorie of the people of Rome, and highly magnified their large empire and dominion, and thereupon made request, that they would not give the Carthaginians leave (who minded to make warre upon Italie) for to passe through their cities and townes: hereat they set up such a laughter, with a certaine grumbling and murmuring, that scarcely could the youth be stilled and quieted by the magistrates and elders; so sottish, so foo∣lish, and shamelesse, seemed this demaund, in their conceit: that they should once imagine that the Gaules were such asses, as they would be content (rather than to let the warre passe into [unspec K] Italie) to avert and turne it upon themselves, and to suffer, yea and offer their owne territories to be spoiled and harried, for the safetie (forsooth) of other mens lands, who were but meere aliens and strangers unto them.

The noyse and garboile being at length husht and appeased, this an∣swere was returned to the Embassadors: That neither the Romanes had deserved so well, nor the Carthaginians so ill, at their hands, that they should take armes either for Romanes, or against Carthaginians. But contrariwise, they were advertised, that some of their nation, were by the people of Rome driven out of the marches and confines of Italie, put to pay tribute, yea, and in∣dured other outrages and indignities.

The like demaunds and answeres passed too and fro in o∣ther Councels and assemblies of Gaule: neither could they meete with any friendly enterteine∣ment, or have peaceable words given them, before they came to * 1.40 Massilia: where, after diligent [unspec L] inquirie, and faithfull search made by their allies, they had true advertisements, that Anniball aforehand had wrought the harts of the Gaules to his owne purpose, and was possessed of them: but they understood withall, that they were not like to continue long in good termes of kindnesse and favor even to him, (so fierce and savage, so untractable are they, and untamed by nature) unlesse their Princes and rulers be ever and anon well feed and plied with gold, whereof that na∣tion of all other is most greedie & covetous. The Romane Embassadors, having thus gone their circuite over all the States of Spaine and Gaule, returned to Rome; not long after that the Coss. had taken their journey into their provinces: where they found the whole citie possessed with the expectation of warre: so rise and currant was the rumor and bruit abroad, that the Car∣thaginians were alreadie passed over the river Iberus.

[unspec M]

Anniball after the winning of Saguntum had retired himselfe to winter in new Carthage: and there having intelligence what had bene done and decreed as well at Rome, as at Carthage [in Affrick] and that he was reputed not onely the Captaine generall and conductor, but also the very author and cause of all this warre; so soone as he had devided and sold the rest of the bootie

[unspec A] and pillage that remained, thought good now to make no longer delaies, * 1.41 but assembled the sol∣diours of the Spanish Nation, and to them he spake in this manner.

My trustie friends and loiall consederats, I am persuaded, that ye yourselves do see as well as I, now that all the States of Spain are in peace and quietnesse, that either yee are to make an end of souldierie, & all our forces to be cassed and discharged from service; or else that yee must remove the warre into other lands. For so shall these Nations prosper and flourish, and not onely enjoy the blessings of peace, but also reape the fruits of war; if we will seek to gain riches, and to acquire glorie and honor from others. Since therefore wee are to warre shortly far from home, and doubt it is, when you shall see again your houses, and whatsoever there, is deere unto you: if any of you bee desirous to visite home, his wife and children, kinsfolke, and friends, I give him licence and free pasport. But I com∣maund [unspec B] you withall, to shew yourselves heere againe before mee, in the beginning of the next spring; that with the helpe of God, we may in hand with that warre, whereby wee shall purchase both worship and wealth. There was not one in a manner but well accepted of this libertie so franckly offered by himselfe, and were desirous•• have a sight of house & land, both for that ove∣ry one a readie longed for their friends and kindred, and foresaw in farther time to come, a grea∣ter misse, and cause of more longing after them.

This rest all Winter time, betweene their tra∣vailes past, and those they were soon after to endure, refreshed as wel their bodies as their minds, and prepared them to abide and endure all new paines whatsoever. So in the very prime of the spring, according to the Edict aforesaid, they all assembled together againe. Anniball having ta∣ken a muster and survey of the aides that were sent unto him from all those Nations, went to [unspec C] * 1.42 Gades; and there, to Hercules he paid his old vowes, and bound himselfe to new, if the rest of his enterprises should speed well and have good successe. After this, deviding and casting care indif∣ferently, as well for offensive as defensive warre, doubting least whiles hee went by land through Spaine and France into Italie, Affricke should lie open and naked to the Romanes from Sicilie side; purposed to fortifie and make that part sure with strong garrisons. In lieu whereof, hee sent for fresh supplie out of Affricke, specially of Archers and Ia••••lotiers, and those lightly armed: to the end, that the Affricanes might serve in Spaine, and the Spaniards in Affrick; like (both the one and the other) to proove the better souldiours, farre from their owne countries, and being bound as it were, with mutuall and reciprocall pledges. So hee sent into Affricke 13850 foote∣men, armed with light targets, and 870 slingers of the islands* 1.43 Baleares, 1200 horsemen also [unspec D] out of sundrie Nations. Which forces he disposed, partly for thedefense of Carthage, & partly to be devided through Affricke, for the guard thereof. Hee sent withall, certaine Commissioners into all their citties to take up souldiours, and enrolled 4000 of their chosen youths, who should be brought to Carthage, there to lie in garison, and to serve for hostages. And supposing that Spaine was not to be neglected, and the rather, because hee was not ignorant how the Romane Embassadours had visited the same round, to see how they could sollicite and worke the Princes and rulers to their mind, he committed the charge of that Province to his brother Asdrubal, a va∣liant and hardie man; and furnished him with good forces, especially out of Affrick, to wit, 11850 Affricans footmen, 300 Ligurians, 500 Balearo Islanders. To this power of footmen, three hun∣dred horse of the* 1.44 Libyphoenicians, a Nation mixt of Carthaginians & Affricanes. Of * 1.45 Numi∣dians [unspec E] and Mores, that coast upon the Ocean, 1900. with a small cornet of 200 horsemen of Ilergetes out of Spaine. And because hee should want no manner of land helpe, foureteene Ele∣phants besides. Moreover, there was a fleet allowed him for the defence of the sea coasts. For by what forces and service the Romanes had before gotten victorie, thereby it was likely, that they would still maintaine and continue their warres. 50 gallies therefore of five bankes of oates, hee had at sea, two of four, and five of three. But of the five oared gallies aforesaid, he had no more but two and thirtie, fitted and well appointed with rowers and marriners, and so were the five of three banckes.

From Gades, the armie of Anniball returned to winter in Carthage: and from thence he pas∣sed by the citie * 1.46 Etovissa, and marched forward with his forces to Iberus & the sea coasts. Where [unspec F] it is reported, that in his sleepe hee dreamed, and sawe a vision; namely, a young man of divine shape and semblance, * 1.47 saying, That he was sent from Jupiter to guide him in his voiage into Italie, and willed him therefore to follow him, and in no wise to turne his eies from him one way or other. Also, that at the first he being skared and affrighted, durst not look either about or behind, but followed him still: afterwards (as men by nature are curious) when hee cast and discoursed in

his mind, what it might be, that hee was forbidden so to see behind him, hee could not hold and [unspec G] rule his eyes, but must needes looke backe: and then hee beheld behind him, a serpent of huge greatnesse comming amaine, and all the way as it went, to beare downe trees, groves, and thic∣kets: and after all that, he perceived a great storme and tempest ensuing, with mightie thunder∣claps. Now when hee was desirous to know what this so great confusion and straunge fight might signifie, he heard a voice, saying, That it betokened the ruines and wasting of Italie: willing him therefore, to goe still forward with his voyage, and search no further into the secrets of the gods, but leave them to the hidden destinies. Anniball right joyous at this vision, passed over Iberus with his whole power, devided into three parts, having sent certaine before him with gifts and re∣wards, into all parts whereas he should march with his armie, to gaine the hearts of the Gaules; and withall, to seeke out & discover the passages of the Alpes. So he crossed the river Iberus with [unspec H] 90000 foot, & 12000 horse, strong. After this, he subdued the Ilergetes, the * 1.48 Bargusians, * 1.49 Ause∣lanes, and * 1.50 Aquitain, which lyeth under the hils Pyrenei. The government of all these Nations, heeset over to Hanno, that hee might have at his commaund the streights which joined Fraunce and Spaine together. Vnto whome hee allowed 10000 footemen, and 1000 horse, for to defend and keepe in obedience those countries. After that his armie was on foote, and began to march through the forrest Pyreneus, and that there ran amongst the barbarous people a more certain bruit, That they were to make warre with the Romanes; three thousand footmen of the Carpe∣nates, returned backe: and for certaine it was knowne, that they departed not, for feare so much of the warre, as the tedious journey and unpassable waies of the Alpes. Anniball, considering that either to recall them, or to keepe them by violence, was a daungerous matter; for fear least [unspec I] thereby hee should provoke the fierce stomackes of the rest; sent home againe above 7000 of such, as he perceived to be wearie, and to have no mind to the service; and made semblance with∣all, that the Carpetanes were by his leave discharged. And doubting least long stay & ease there, might tempt his souldiours, and give occasion of mutinies, with the rest of his forces hee passed Pyreneus, and pitched his campe before the towne * 1.51 Illiberis. The Gaules, albeit they were ad∣vertised, that it was Italie, at which Anniball shot; yet because the bruit was blased, That the Spa∣niards beyond Iberus, were by force subdued, and strong garrisons placed in their citties: certaine Nations of them, for feare of servitude and bondage, rose up in armes, and assembled together at * 1.52 Ruscino.

Which being related to Anniball, hee fearing more that they would stay him in his journey, than endaunger him in sight; sent certaine Oratours or Embassadours to their Princes [unspec K] and great Lords, to signifie unto them, That himselfe in person would gladly parle with them, and that it should bee in their choise whether they would come neerer to Illiberis, or himselfe goe forward to Ruscino: where, beeing neere together, they might more easily meere and conferre. For as hee was willing to receive them into his campe, and would bee glad to see them there: so hee would not thinke much of his paines, to repaire unto them himselfe, as one that was thither come, as a friend and guest unto Fraunce, and not as an enemie; and would not by his good will draw a sword (if the Gaules would let him alone) before hee were entered within Italie.

And, thus much verilie pasied by messengers and courriers be∣tweene. But so soone as the Lords of Fraunce, who presently remooved their campe to Illi∣beris, were come willingly enough to Anniball, as being bribed and corrupted with money [unspec L] and presents, they gave his armie good leave to passe through their confines along the towne Ruscino.

In Italie this while, the embassadors of Marseilles had brought no other word to Rome, but that Anniball was only gone over Iberus: but, by that time, the Boij had stirred up the Insubrians to mutinie, and were revolted themselves, even as if hee had passed the Alpes alreadie: which they did not so much upon old rancour and mallice to the People of Rome, as for that, they tooke it ill and were discontented, that there were Colonies brought lately into the Gauls countrie, to be planted about * 1.53 Padus, * 1.54 Placentia and Cremona. Whereupon they arose suddainely, tooke armes, and entred by force into those parts, and made so soule worke and fearefull havocke, that not onely the countrey people and villagers, but also the three Romane Commissioners called Triumvirs, to wit, Caius Luctatius, Aul. Servilius, and Titus Annius, who were come to set out the lands and territorie to the said Colonies, not trusting the wals of Placentia, fled to * 1.55 Mutina. That Luctatius was one of them, it is not doubted: but some records have Q. Acilius and C. He∣rennius, instead of A. Servilius and T. Annius: and others againe, nominate P. Cornelius Asina,

[unspec A] and C. Papyrius Maso. It is uncertaine also, whether they were the Embassadours sent to the * 1.56, Boij, to reason or expostulate the matter, that had abuse offred them, and were evill intreated; or that the Triumvirs above said, were set upon and assailed, as they were measuring out the lands. But whiles they were thus besieged at Mutina, and those Bojans lying at siege (a nation unskilfull altogether in the seat of assaulting townes, and likewise of all other most cowardly, to attempt any martial exploits) whiles they lay ydely about the wals, & never once advanced against them, they began to make shew of a treatie for peace. Wherupon the Roman embassadors or Comissioners, being by the chiefe of the Gaules called out to parle, were not onely against law of nations, but with breach also of their faithfull promise, & word which they had given that time, apprehended: and the Gauls said plainly, they would not let them go, unless their hostageswere delivered them [unspec B] again. These news touching the embassadors being reported, & Mutina with the garison in dan∣ger; L. Manli••s the Pretor, in great anger and indignation; brought his armie in more hast than good order, before Mutina••. There were in those daies great woods about the high way, and most part of the countrie wilds and wasts, not inhabited: where he having engaged himselfe without his espials, was intrapped within an ambush; lost many of his men, and hardly recove∣red the open champaine countrie. There he ••icamped himselfe strongly: and for that the Gaules had no heart to assault, nor hope to win the camp, his soldior's courages were refreshed; albeit it was well known, that they had received a shrowd foile, & knew their forces to be much empaired. Then began he to march on, in his journey afresh. And so long as he led his power through the open countrie, the enemies were not in sight: but when they were entred the forrests againe, they [unspec C] set upon the reward of them: where, besides the great fright and damage of all the rest, 800 Ro∣mane soldiors were left dead in the place; and the enemies went away with fix ensignes. But af∣terwards, the Gaules ceased to molest and trouble, and the Romanes gave over to feare, so soone as they were passed, and escaped the rough, comberous, and unpassable forrests. And the Romans being now able in the open and champion counttie to march with safetie; made hast to get to * 1.57 Tannerus a village neere unto the Po. There within a fort which they made for the time, with the helpe and provision of victuals by the river, and the aid also of certaine Gaules called * 1.58 Brixians, they defended themselves against the enemies, whose number daily encreased. After this sud∣daine tumult was reported at Rome, and that the LL. of the Senate were advertised, that besides the war with the Carthaginians, the Gaules were up in armes: they gave order, that C. Attilius [unspec D] the Pretour should goe (with one Romane Legion, and foure thousand allies, who were enrolled by the Consuls in a new levie) to aid Manlius: who without any skirmish (by reason that the enemies were fled for feare) came to Tanetus. Also P. Cornelius having newly levied one Legion in lieu of that which was sent with the Pretor, departed from the cittie of Rome, and passing with 60 Gaules along the costes of Tuscane, Liguria, and so forward of the Salyes, shortly arrived at Massilia, and encamped neere the next mouth of * 1.59 Rhodanus, (for the river is devided into many branches, and so dischargeth it selfe into the sea) being not fully of be∣leefe that Anniball as yet had passed over the mountaines Pyrenei. But when he understood, that he was redie even then to passe Rhodanus also; & doubting in what place to encounter and meet him, his people as yet not well recovered, after their being sea-sick: he sent before, 300 elect men [unspec E] of armes, guided by the Massilians, and certaine Gaules that came to aid; for to discover all, and to take a full view of the enemies safely without danger.

Anniball having appeased the rest of the countrie, either for feare or by meanes of mony, was now come into the countrie of the * 1.60 Volcanes, a puisant people and a valiant. These inhabite along both the bankes of Rhodanus: and mistrusting that they were not able to defend their lands against the Carthaginians, on that side of the river which lay to them: because they might have the whole river to serve them for a good defence & rampier, transported over the Rhos••e all in manner that ever they had, and kept the banke on the other side. The rest of the inhabi∣tants neere to the river, and even those also in whose territories Anniball had set foot alreadie, both he himselfe with gifts allured to get together from all parts shipping, and to frame new ves∣sels: [unspec F] and they of themselves likewise, were as willing to have his armie transported, and their own countrie eased and delivered (they cared not how soone) of so great a multitude of troublesome guests. Whereupon, there was gotten together an huge number of lighters, barges, and boats especially, which were made in hast without great workemanship; in which the people inhabiting therby, use to transport wares & commodities from one to another. Other new whirries also, the

Gauls began first to make of the hollowed trunks of trees: and after them, the soldiors for that [unspec G] they had both store of timber and saw the workmanship but sleight & easie, made in hast certain bottomes, such as they were, like troughs without forme or fashion, regarding no hansomensse at all, so they would but flote on the water, and receive burden, in which they might convey over themselves and that which they had.

Now when they had prepared and made all readie for their passage, the enemies on the other side right against them, kept and covered all the banke, along with men and horse putting them to much trouble and feare. Anniball therefore to withdraw them from that place, commaun∣ded Hanno the sonne of Bomilcar, at the first watch of the night, to go up the streame along the river side, one daies journey, with part of the forces, and those most of them Spaniards: and wheresoever he first could espie a convenient place, to crosse the river, & to land as secretly as [unspec H] he could: and then to fetch about with his men, that when need were he might charge upon the backe of the enemie. Hereunto were appointed certaine Gaules for guides: who from thence conducted them some 25 miles above, to a little yland compassed about with the river, which here spred out in bredth, by reason that it devided itselfe, and thereby the channell was not so deepe: where they shewed him a place of passage. There, in all hast they cut downe and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 timber, and made botes, to set ouer horse and man and other burthen. The Spaniards made no more adoe, but fastning their apparrell to bouges of lether like bladders, full of wind, and lay∣ing their bucklers thereupon, sat alost and passed over nimbly. The rest of the armie also, with joy∣ning planks and troughes together, was set over. Where having encamped neere the river, as being wearie with their night journey, and toilesome work, they rested one day to refresh them∣selves, [unspec I] whiles there captaine studied and was occupied, to execute his commission and his inten∣ded service in good and convenient time. The morrow after, they removed from thence, and gave knowledge by smoke that they were passed over and not farre of. Which when Anniball perceived, for that he would not loose the vantage of that time, he gave signall to his men also to get over the water. Now had the footmen alreadie their botes prepared and fitted. And the course & ranks of barges (which to receive and breake the force of the currant from above, trans∣ported the horsemen, besides the horses that swam after) made for the small botes that passed be∣neath, a gentle and calme water. For a number of horses swam after the ships, haled by the bridle raines which were tied to the poupes, besides those, which being sadled and bridled, and fitted to serve the men of armes so soone as ever they were landed, were bestowed in barges & fery botes. [unspec K] The Gaules stood upon the banke with dissant hooping, hollaing, yelling and singing after their manner, who shaking their targuets over their heads, brandishing and florishing their swords in their right hands, shewed themselves redie to receive them, albeit so great a number and world of barges and botes ful in their eie over against them, together with arrhideous roring of the water, might have skared them: besides sundrie noises of mariners and soldiors, who laboured & strived to break the power and force of the water, and who being on the other side of the banke encoura∣ged their fellowes that were passing over. And thus frighted enough as they were, with the tumult and noise presented before their faces: behold there arose a more fearfull and terrible outcrie behind theis backs, upon the forcing and winning of their campe by Hanno. And, him∣himselfe in person came soone after: so that they were put in feare on both sides. For not onely [unspec L] out of the ships there was a great multitude gotten to land, but also a power at their backes unlooked for, came forward and charged them. The Gaules, after they had made some resistance, and saw they were easely put backe; brake through, where they espied the way to lie most open, and so in great feare they fled divers waies into their townes and villages. Anniball then, having conveied over the rest of his forces by leasure, cared no more now for any French sturres and tu∣mults, and so encamped himselfe. But for the transporting of the Elephants, I suppose there were sundrie devises: and certainly, however it was, the thing is diversly recorded. Some say, that when the Elephantes were gathered together upon the banke, the most couragious and fiercest of them all, was chauffed, angred, and raised of purpose by his master or keeper: and when he was pursued of the beast, and to save himselfe fled from him, and tooke the river, [unspec M] thereupon the Elephant followed after him as hee swamme, and so drew after him the whole drove of the rest: and as any one of them (fearing the depth) failed to wade, the verie force of the river carried him to the other side. But it is more credibly and certainely reported, that they were conveyed over in certaine barges: which as it was a safer way

[unspec A] safer way and surer course before it was practised, so when it was done and past, it was more easily credited. They caused therefore one vessell or barge, 200 foote long, and 50 foote broad, to reach from the strond side and the shore into the river; which because it should not be caried downe with the course and streame of the water, they fastned to the banke above with many strong ropes, and like as it had ben a bridge, they covered it over with earth, that the beasts might boldly gothereon as upon the firme ground. Now there was another barge full as broad, but of length only 100 foot; fitted & appointed to passe the river, and was tied & coupled therto: and when as the Elephants (driven after the females going before) upon the steadie barge, as it had bene upon a causey, were gone over into the lesser which was fastned unto it; then presently was it losed from the bonds where with it was slightly tyed, and so haled and drawne by certaine [unspec B] galley boats, directed with oaresthrough to the other banke. Thus when the first were landed, they went for more stil, until they were all set over: and verily, so long as they were driven on still, as it were upon a long bridge, they nothing feared: the formost only were afrayed when the barge was losened, and they parted from their fellows, and so were caried away into the wide and deepe river, where thronging and struggling together, and iostling one another, they made some trouble, whiles they that were outmost gave back from the water as much as they could, untill such time as very feare (when they saw all about them nothing but water) caused them to be quiet. Some of them also like raging beasts as they were, and unruly, fell out into the river, but by reason of their heavinesse, they stood sure, and casting their governors, they fought the sounds foot by foot, by little and little, and got safe to land.

[unspec C] Whiles the Elephants were thus transporting over, Anniball in the meane time had sent 500 Numidian light horsemen to the Romanes camp, as espials to discover the ground, where they were to learne what forces they had, and listen after their designes and purposes. This wing and troup was encountred by three hundred Romane horsemen, sent as is aforesayd, from the mouth of Rhodanus: where there was a more cruell skirmish than for so small a number, for besides many hurt, there were slaine on both sides in a maner alike: but in the end, the feare and flight of the Numidians gave the victorie to the Romanes; being now alreadie much travailed and wea∣ried: on whose part (being the winners) were slaine 160, not all Romans, but some Gaules: and on the losers side who were overcome, there dyed above 200. This beginning and prognosti∣cation as it were of the warre, as it portended and presaged an happie end and successe of the [unspec D] whole, unto the Romans: so it shewed plainely, that the victorie would hang long in equall ba∣lance, not without much effusion of bloud, and danger of their part. The conflict being thus de∣termined, they returned each one to his owne Captaine. As for Scipio, he could not resolve to take any course himselfe; but according as he saw the plots and enterprises of the enemie, so to frame his own. And Annibal again being uncertain whether to go forward with his journy begun, into Italie, or to give battel unto the first armie of the Romans that came in his way and met him: was drawn away from all present conflict, by occasion of the comming of the Embassadors of the Boij, and of a great Lord and Potentate, called Matalus; who promising to be his guides unto him in his voyage, and companions in his perils, thought it good, and gave advise to invade and set upon Italie first of all before any other warre, whiles his forces were entier in harr, no where [unspec E] put to the hazard, and to give them as it were the first hansell. The common multitude of the Carthaginians (for that the former warre was not cleane forgotten and out of remembrance) feared verily their enemies, but more their infinite journey, & the Alps especially, the name wher∣of to men not experienced, was very fearefull and terrible. Wherupon, Anniball being now reso∣lute to march onward in his journey, and to passe into Italie, assembled his people to an audi∣ence, and by sundrie meanes, as well by way of rebuke, as also by encouragement, windeth and assayeth the minds of his souldiers.

I mervell (quoth he) what sodaine fright or new feare hath possessed your hearts; that ever before now have bene undaunted; who have served so many yeares, and alwaies won the victorie; who departed not out of Spaine, before that all those nati∣ons and lands, which lye enclosed between two divers seas, were brought in subjection to the [unspec F] Carthaginians; who taking indignation and great disdaine; that the people of Rome should require all those to be yeelded unto justice (as offenders and malefactors) that had besieged Sa∣guntum, have thereupon passed the river Iberus, with this intent even to destroy and extirp the Roman name, & to set free the whole world out of their servitude & bondage: no man thought it long then of his travaile from East to West, from the setting of the sunne, to the rising of the

same: now when as ye see the greater part (by farre) of our journey done and past, the forrest and [unspec G] mountaine of Pyreneus, amid most fierce and cruell nations, surmounted; that great river Rho∣danus, passed over, maugre the hearts of so many thousand Gaules that would have impeached your passage, yea & the force of his maine streame overcome; now I say, when you are within the fight of the Alps, to the other side whereof lieth Italie close; ye faint as it were, and stand still, ti∣red at the very gates of the enemies. Why? what other thing take ye the Alps to be, but high hils? And imagine they be higher than the cliffes of Pyrenei, what? there is no land (I am sure) that reach up to heaven, and no place for men unsuperable. But for the Alps, they are inhabited, and they are tilled, they breede and feede living creatures and cattaile: and are they accessible in deede, & passable for some few, & unpassable for whole armies? These verie embassadors whom you see here, flew not over the Alps with wings, neither were their auncestors time out of mind [unspec H] borne and bred there, but came from other parts as strangers, and inhabited Italie before; yea, and oftentimes haue gone over the same Alps in huge multitudes, together with their wives and children, in manner of travailers & pilgrimes that seeke new countries to inhabite: what should there be unpassable then or impossible for the armed souldiour, carying about him nothing but instruments of warre? For the winning of Saguntum, what perils were adventured, what travailes were endured and swallowed, for eight moneths space? should any thing then seeme so hard and difficult as to stay them in their enterprise once begun, who aime at no lesse than to conquer Rome, the head citie of the world? And have the Gaules indeede forced and woon that in times past, which the Carthaginians despaire now to come unto? Therefore, either ye must confesse your selves inferior in stomack and valor to that nation, which so ost (these dayes passed) by you [unspec I] have ben vanquished; or else make reckoning with assured hope, that the goodly faire fields that lye betweene Tyberis and the walls of Rome, are the end of your iourney.

When in these termes he had exhorted and encouraged his souldiours, he commaunded them to take their repast and repose, to cherish and refresh their bodies, and to prepare them∣selves for the march. The morrow after he departed crosse from the banks of Rhodanus, and entred the inland parts of France: not for that it was the more direct way to the Alps, but because he thought the further he went from the sea side, in so much lesse danger he should be of mee∣ting the Romans, with whom he was not minded to fight, before he was arrived into Italie. After that he had travailed foure dayes journey, he came to an Iland, where the two rivers * 1.61 Arar and Rhodanus, issuing out of sundrie parts of the Alps, and taking a direct course, after they have [unspec K] run through a good part of the countrey, fall at length together and meete in one, and the ground lying betweene is called by the name of the Iland. Neere there, inhabite the * 1.62 Allobro∣ges, a nation even in those dayes nothing inferior, either in wealth and puissance, or in same and reputation to any people or state of the Gaules whatsoever. But at that very time there was some discord & variance among them, by occasion of two brethren who were at strife for the crowne and kingdome: the elder (whose name was Brancus, and had before enjoyed the Seignorie) was deposed and thrust out by his yonger brother, and a Iustie crew of the youth; who as they had lesse right on their side, so they were the mightier. The deciding of this variance, was referred and put over unto Anniball, in as good and fit a time for his purpose, as he could have wished: and he forsooth was made the umpire and judge, to determine whether of them should be king [unspec L] who restored the elder to the kingdome; like as it would have bene adjudged by the award of the Senators and Nobles of the countrie. For which benefit and good turne, he was served with victuall, and store of all things aboundantly, yea and with rayment and apparell; which he was driven to provide aforehand, for the name that went of the Alps, which for their coldnesse were in great discredit.

Having thus appeased the debate of the Allobroges, and minding now to set forward to the Alps; he would not go the direct streight way, but turned on the left hand to the * 1.63 Tricastnies, and from thence passing by the frontires of the * 1.64 Vocontians, he matched into the * 1.65 Tricoriahs; and never was he stayed or impeached in his journey, before that he came to the river * 1.66 Druen∣tia, which descending also out of the Alps, is of all other rivers in France most hard to be passed [unspec M] over; for although it carie with it a mightie force of water, yet will it beare no vessell, because it is kept and restreined with no banks, but running at once by many divers chanels, maketh ever new sourds, and casteth up new shelves and whirlepits, (for which cause also a footeman hath much ado to wade therethrough, and knoweth not the fourds) besides, it rolleth downe round

[unspec A] stones and pibbles, whereby there is no sure nor safe footing for him that would wade through. And it chaunced at that time, that it swelled and was risen high by fall of raine, and by land∣flouds, and caused them to have very much to doe, that passed over it: and over and besides all other difficulties, they were of themselves troubled and disquieted through their owne feare∣fulnesse and sundrie cries which they made. Publius Cornelius the Consull, about three daies af∣ter that Anniball dislodged from the banke of Rhodanus, was arrived with his armie (arraun∣ged in a fouresquare battaille) as farre as the place where the enemie was lately encamped, pur∣posing without any stay to give him battaile. But seeing the hold abandoned, and that hee was not like to overtake him, being so farre gone forwards; hee returned to his ships at sea, sup∣posing by that meanes, with lesse daunger and difficultie, to encounter Anniball as hee des∣cended [unspec B] from the Alpes. But leastthat Spaine (which was the province allotted unto him) should be left disfurnished of Romane succours, he sent his brother Cn. Scipio with the greatest part of his forces against Asdruball: not so much to defend their old allies, and procure new, as to drive Asdruball out of Spaine. Himselfe with a verie small companie returned to * 1.67 Genua, with in∣tent to guard Italie, with that armie which was about the Po.

Anniball being departed from Druentia, marched for the most part through the champion countries, and came in peace and quietly, to the foot of the Alpes, for any trouble from the pea∣sants that there inhabited. And albeit he had some knowledge of the Alpes before by report, (which useth to make things that are uncertain, much more than indeed and truth they are) yet seeing now neere at hand the heigth of those thils, and the snowes, entermingled along with the [unspec C] skie; the rude and mishapen houses set upon rockes; the cattell, sheepe, oxen, and horses, singed with cold; the people with long shagd haire, and without any trimming, both living and livelesse creatures, even parched stiffe and starke with frost; and all things else mo••e strange and ilfavou∣red, than can be spoken: then began his souldiours to feare afresh. So soone as they advaunced forward, and began to march up the first cliffes, there appeared over their heads the mountaine people, who had seized the hils: who if they had kept the secret and hidden vallies, and suddain∣ly all at once charged upon them, they would have made a foule slaughter of them, & put them to flight. Then Anniball commaundeth the ensignes to stand stil, and sent certaine Gaules afore, as espials; by whom he understood, that there was no passage that way: whereupon, he pitched his campe amongst those craggie and steepe rough places, upon as large a plaine and valley as hee [unspec D] could find. Then by the same Gaules (who much differed not in tongue and manners from the other, and had entermingled themselves in talke with the mountainers) he understood, that they kept the passage, but in the day time, and slipt away in the night, every one to his owne harbour. So at the break of day he mounted those steepe hils, as if he would openly in the day time march through the streights. Thus having spent the day in making semblance and shew of one thing, and intending another, hee encamped himselfe strongly in the place where hee had rested and staied: and so soone as hee perceived, that the mountaine people were departed from the steepe hils, and kept not so streight watch and ward; after that hee had made shewe of fires, more than for the number of those that remained behind; and left with the Cavallerie all the bag and bag∣gage, with the greatest part of the footmen: himselfe in person took unto him the nimblest, most [unspec E] active, and valiant souldiours lightly appointed, and with all speed passed through the streights aforesaid, and encamped on the very hils which the enemies before held and beset. Then in the morning betime his campe dislodged: and the armie behind, began to march and set forward. By which time the mountainers, at the ordinarie signall given, came foorth out of their castles and fortes, and met at the usuall place of their accustomed guards: but then all at once they might see some of the enemies over their heads, to have gained their own fortresse, & others also marching in the way. Both which objects at one time presented to their eye, made them blanke and to stand still in a muse a good while. But afterwards, when they saw Anniball his armie, distres∣sed in the streights, and in great trouble and disorder among themselves in the march, by reason especially the horses were so affrighted: supposing, that the least fear and terror (besides) that they [unspec F] could procure, would bee ynough for their enemies overthrow and confusion, they crossed the rockes overthwart, and (as they were accustomed and used to them) ran to and fro, up and down through the blind and unhaunted bywaies. But then verily, the Carthaginians were much en∣combred, as well by their enemies, as also by the disadvantage of the place, & more ado there was among them (whiles every one strived avie who should first escape the daunger) than with

the enemie. There was nothing that disordered and troubled the armie in the match, so much as [unspec G] their owne horses, which (by reason of the dissonant and divers cries, that the ecchoes betweene the woods and vallies redoubled) were affrighted: and also if any of them chaunced to bee stric∣ken, gauled, or wounded; they kept such winsing, and flinging about them, that they overthrew and made great havocke of men, and of all sorts of carriage. Besides, the preasse was so great, and the streights of both sides so steepe and craggie, that many a man was throwne down head∣long a mightie heigth: yea, and some of them armed: and the sumpter horses and beastes for carriage, especially, tumbled downe amaine with their load, as if a house or castle had come downe with a mischeefe. Which, although it were terrible to behold, yet Anniball for a while stood still, and kept his owne men together, for feare of encreasing this disorder and affright. But after that hee saw his armie disbanded and marching in disarray, and that it was to no pur∣pose [unspec H] to lead his armie safe through the streights, if hee lost the carriages: for feare hereof, hee ran downe from the higher ground, and albeit, with the violence of his charge, hee discomfited the enemie, yet he encreased the trouble and feare of his owne people. But that was soone ap∣peased in a verie moment, after the waies and passages were once cleared, by reason of the mountainers that were fled: so that within a while the whole hoast passed through, not onely at ease and leasure, but also in a manner without anie noise at all. This done, hee seized upon a castle, which was the cheefe strength of that countrie, with other villages lying about it: and for three daies space hee victualled and maintained his whole armie, with the cattell of his prisoners. And for that hee was now neither molested with the mountainers, who were at the first discomfited, nor greatly encombred with the difficulties of the waies, in those three daies [unspec I] hee rid a good deale of ground, and journeied a great way into the countrey; untill at the length hee came to an••••her coast well peopled (for such mountaine and hillie quarters;) where hee had like to have been overtaken, not by open force, but even in his owne professed cun∣ning: first, by a subtile practise, and after by a secret ambush. Certaine auncient men, the ru∣lers and governours of the castles, repaired unto Anniball as Oratours, saying, That they ha∣ving beene taught and made wise, by the profitable example of other mens harmes, made choise, rather to trie the amitie, than proove the force of the Carthaginians; and therefore were willing to doe his commaundement, and bee at his devotion: requesting him to take at their hands victuals and guides for their journey, yea, and hostages also for better assurance of promises to bee performed. Anniball neither overhastily and rashly beleeving them, nor yet [unspec K] churlishly distrusting and refusing their offer, least being rejected and cast off, they might be∣come open and professed enemies; gave them good language, and a courteous answere, re∣ceived the hostages whom they gave, accepted victuals, which they had brought with them to maintaine his armie by the way, and followed their guides, but so, as his armie was not dis∣arraied in their march, as if hee had beene amongst his friends, and in a peaceable countrey. First went in the vaunt-guard the Elephants, and the horsemen; himselfe marched after with the flower and strength of his footemen, looking all about him with an heedfull eye. So soone as hee was entered a narrow passage, which of the one side lay under a steepe hill that comman∣ded them aloft, the barbarous people rose out of their ambush from all parts at once, both be∣fore and behind, and charged upon him both a far off and neere at hand; yea and rolled downe [unspec L] mightie huge stones upon them as they marched. But the greatest number came behind upon their backes: against whom he turned and made head with the power of his footmen, and with∣out all peradventure (if the taile both of his armie, had not beene strong and well fortified) they must needs have received in that lane and streights, an exceeding great overthrow. And even then, as it was, they came to an extremitie of daunger, and in manner fel into a present mischeefe. For whiles Annibal made long stay, & doubted whether he should engage the regiment of foot∣men within the streights, for that he had not left any succors in the reregard to back the footmen, like as himselfe was a defence to the horsemen; the mountainers came overthwart, and flancked them; and breaking through the files of the battaile, beset the way, and crossed upon him. So that Anniball took up his lodging for one night, without his cariages & horsemen. The morrow after, when as the barbarous people ran betweene them more coldly than before, he joined his [unspec M] forces together, and passed the streight, not without great dammage and losse; but with more hurt of the sumpter horses than of men. After this, the mountainers (fewer in number, and in robbing wise rather than in warlike sort) ran in heapes, one while upon the vaward, other while

[unspec A] upon the rereward, as any one of them could either get the vantage of ground, or by going one while afore, and by staying another while behind, winne and catch any occasion & opportu∣nity. The elephants, as they were driven with great leasure, because through these narrow steights, they were readie ever & anone to run on their noses: so what way soever they went, they kept the army safe & sure from the enemies; who being not used unto them, durst not once come neer. The ninth day he woon the verie tops of the Alpes, through by-lanes and blind crankes: after he had wandred many times out of the way, either through the deceitfulnesse of their guides; or for that when they durst not trust them, they adventured rashly themselves upon the vallies, and guessed the way at adventure, and went by aime. Two daies abode he encamped upon the tops thereof, and the soldiors weried with travaile and fight rested that time: certaine also of the [unspec B] sumpter horses (which had slipt aside from therockes) by following the tracks of the armie as it marched, came to the campe. When they were thus overtoiled and wearied with these tedious travailes, the snow that fell (for now the starre Vergilie, was set and gone downe out of that ho∣rizon) increased their feare exceedingly. Now when as at the breake of day the ensignes were set forward, and the armie marched slowly, through the thicke and deepe snow; and that there appeared in the countenance of them all, slouthfulnesse and desperation: Anniball advanced before the standerds, and commaunded his soldiours to stay upon a certaine high hill, (from whence they had a goodly prospect and might see a great way all about them) and there shewed unto them Italie, and the goodly champion fields about the Po, which lie hard under the foot of the Alpine mountains: saying, That even then they mounted the wals, not only of Italy, but also [unspec C] of the cittie of Rome; as for all besides (faith hee) will be plaine and easie to be travelled: and af∣ter one or two battailes at the most, ye shall have at your command, the verie castle and head citie of all Italy. Then began the armie to march forward: and as yet the enemies verely themselves ad∣ventured nothing at all, but some pettie robberies by stealth, as opportunitie & occasion served. Howbeit they had much more difficult travailing down the hill, than in the climbing & getting up; for that most of the advenues to the Alpes from Italy side, as they be shorter, so they are more upright: for all the way in a manner was steepe, narrow, and slipperie, so as neither they could hold themselves from sliding, nor if any tripped and stumbled never so little, could they possibly (they staggered so) recover themselves and keep sure footing, but one fell upon another, as well horse as man. After this they came to a much narrower rocke, with crags & rags so steepe [unspec D] downeright, that hardly a nimble soldiour without his armour and baggage (do what he could to take hold with hands upon the twigs and plants that there about grew forth) was able to creep down. This place being before naturally of it selfe steepe & pendant with a downe-fall, now was choked & dammed up with a new fall of earth, which left a bank behind it of a wonderful & mon∣strous heigth. There the horsmen stood still as if they had been come to their waies end. & when Anniball merveiled much what the matter might be that staied them so, as they marched not on: word was brought him, that the Rock was unaccessible & unpassable. Wherupon, he went himself in person to view the place, & then he saw indeed without all doubt, that although he had fetched a compasse about, yet he had gained nought thereby, but conducted his armie, to passe through wilds, & such places as before had never been beaten & troden. And verely that (of al other) was [unspec E] such, as it was impossible to passe through. For, wher as there lay old snow untouched & not trod∣denon, and over it other snow newly fallen, of a smal depth; in this soft & tender snow, & the same not verie deep, their feet as they went, easely tooke hold: but that snow, being once with the gate of so many people & beasts upon it, fretted and thawed, they were faine to go upon the bare yce underneath, and in the slabberie snow-broth, as it relented and melted about their heeles. There they had foule a doe and much strugling, for that they could not tread sure upon the slipperie yce: and againe, going as they did (downe hill) their feetsooner failed them: and when they had hel∣ped themselves once in getting up, either with hands or knees; if they chanced to fal again, when those their props and staies deceived them, there were no twigs nor rootes about, whereon a man might take hold, and rest or stay himselfe, either by hand or foot. And therefore all that the [unspec F] poore garrons and beasts could doe, was to tumble and wallow only, upon the slipperie and glas∣sie yee, and the molten slabbie snow. Otherwhiles also, they perished, as they went in the deepe snow, whiles it was yet soft and tender: for when they were once slidden and fallen, with flinging out their heeles, and beating with their hoofes more forcibly for to take hold, they brake the yce through; so as most of them, as if they had ben caught fast and fettered, stucke still in the deepe,

hard frozen, & congealed yce. At last, when as both man & beast were weried and overtoiled, and [unspec G] all to no purpose, they encamped upon the top of an hill, having with very much ado clensed the place aforehand for that purpose: such a deale of snow there was to be digged, faied, and thrown out. This done, the souldiors were brought to breake that rocke, through which was their onely waie: and against the time that it was to be hewed through, they felled & overthrew many huge trees that grew there about, and made a mightie heape and pile of wood: the wind served fuly for the time to kindle a fire, & then they set all a burning. Now when the rock was on fire and red hot, they powred thereon strong vineger for to calcine & dissolve it. When as the rock was thus baked (as it were) with fire, they digged into it, and opened it with pickeaxes, and made the descent gentle and easie, by meanes of moderate windings and turnings: so as not onely the horses and other beasts, but even the Elephants also might be able to go downe. Foure daies he [unspec H] spent about the levelling of this rock: & the beasts were almost pined and lost for hunger. For the hill tops for the most part are bare of grasse; and looke what fog and forage there was, the snow overhilled it. The dales and lower grounds have some little banks lying to the sunne, and rivers withall, neere unto the woods, yea and places more meet and beseeming for men to inhabite. There were the labouring beasts put out to grasse & pasture, and the soldiors that were wearied with making the waies, had three daies allowed to rest in. From thence they went downe into the plaine countrie, where they found both the place more easie and pleasant, and the natures of the inhabitants more tractable.

In this manner, and by this meanes principally, entred the Carthaginians into Italy, five moneths after they departed from new Carthage (as some write): & within fifteene daies over∣came [unspec I] and passed the Alpes. What power Anniball had, when he was arrived in Italy, the histo∣rians doe not agree. They that speake with the most, write that hee was 100000 foot, and 20000 horse strong: they that make the least of it, say they were 20000 foot and 6000 horse. L. Cincius Alimentus, who hath delivered under his hand, that himselfe was taken prisoner by Anniball (a writer of great authoritie) would induce me sufficiently to beleeve him, but that he setteth downe the number so confusedly, by adding to the rest, the Gaules and Ligurians. Here∣cordeth, that counting them, the Infanterie was 80000, & the Cavallery 10000, which was con∣ducted into Italy (but likely it is that from all parts there came more thither than so, and so some authors doe report) and that he heard from Anniball his owne mouth, that after he had passed Rhodanus, he had lost 36000 men, and a great number of horses and other beasts of burden, [unspec K] when he was come downe into the Taurines countrie, which was the next nation in Italy, adjoy∣ning to the Gaules. Which being a thing agreed upon amongst all, I marvaile so much the more, that there is any doubt, on which side hee went over the Alpes: and that commonly it is beleeved, that he passed by a place called Penninum, and that thereupon the top of the Alpes tooke the name, and was so called. Celius saith, hee tooke his way over by the top of Cremon: both which passages surely would have brought him not into the Taurines countrey, but through the mountaine forrests, unto the Gaules called Libuj. But neither is it probable, that in those daies the same passages were open into Fraunce: considering, that the waies which lead to Penninum were environned with nations halfe Germanes. And certainely, the Veragrians, who inhabite this verie top (in case a man may build ought upon this conje∣cture) [unspec L] never knew that these mountaines tooke the name of any passage of the Carthaginians, that way: but of some one place consecrated in the top of the hill, which the pesants and moun∣tainers called Penninum.

Very happily and fitly it sell out for the enterprise of his first designements, that the Taurines the next nation he came unto, made warre upon the Insubrians. But Anniball being busied in refreshing his armie (that now had most feeling of their harmes which they had caught before) could not arme the same to the aide and gratifying of either partie: for ease after travaile, plen∣tie upon scarcitie, good keeping and delicate, after lothsome nastinesse, did by a sodaine change greatly alter and distemper their leane and pined bodies, welneere savage and wild growne. [unspec M] Which was the cause that P. Cornelius the Consul, being arrived and landed at Pisae, after he had received of Manlius Attilius an armie of new and raw souldiers, fearefull for some shamefull dis∣grace and defeature lately received, made hast and highed him to the Po, for to give battaile un∣to the enemie, before he were well refreshed and in heart again. But by that time that the Consul was come to Placentia, Anniball had dislodged and removed his camp, and woon by assault the

[unspec A] chiefe citie or towne of the Taurines, because it willingly yeelded not to accept of his amitie and protection: and surely not by feare only, but also of voluntarie good will, he had gained un∣to him the Gaules that inhabited about the Po, but that the sodaine comming of the Consull interrupted and surprised them, as they were casting about to spie some opportunitie of rebelli∣on. So Anniball dislodged, and removed out of the Taurines countrey, with this opinion, that the Gaules especially, being doubtfull as yet what part to take, would follow him being present in place. Now were the armies in manner one in sight of the other, and the Generals approched nigher together: and as they were not yet well knowne one unto the other, so they had alreadie both of them a great opinon, and reciprocall admiration one of the other. For as Anniball was much renowned, and his name right well knowne among the Romanes, even since before Sa∣guntum [unspec B] was lost: so Scipio was takenof him, and repured for some singular and excellent man, in that he especially above all other, was chosen Generall against him. Which mutuall conceit and impression they had, they augmented themselves one to the other: for that Scipio, albeit he was left behinde in France, yet he met Anniball, and was readie to make head against him, so soone as he was passed the Alps: and Anniball againe, because having enterprised so great an adventure, as to passe the Alps, had now brought the same to good effect. But Scipio to prevent Anniball in crossing the Po before him, removed his camp to the river Ticinus: and for to en∣courage his souldiours, before he brought them forth to battaile, he made an Oration unto them, and began in this manner.

My valiant souldiours and trustie friends, if I were now to leade that armie into the field, which [unspec C] I had with me in France, I would have forborne to make any speech at all unto you: for to what purpose needed I to exhort, either that Cavallerie, which so valiantly had vanquished the horse∣men of the enemies at the river Rhodanus: or those legions, with whom I followed in chase as it were, even these very enimies, and whose falling off and refusing battaile, I take to be a confession of victorie? But now for as much as that armie, being indeed levied for the province Spaine, serveth with my brother Cn. Scipio, under my name and commission, where it pleaseth the Senate and people of Rome, they should be employed; to the end that ye might have a Consull to be your Captaine against Anniball and the Carthaginians, I have willingly offred my selfe to this warre. If being then, your new Captaine, and you my new souldiours, meete it is and convenient I should use a few words unto you. And to the end you should not be ignorant, either of the [unspec D] manner of this service, or qualitie of your enemie; with those men ye are to fight, whom in the former Punick warre ye overcame both by land and sea; of whome for these twentie yeares ye have received tribute; from whome ye have woon (as the due wages and reward of the warre) Sicile, and Sadinia both, and them do hold and occupie. In this battaile therefore, both you and they are to cary that mind, and so to be affected, as winners and loosers are to be: for never thinke that it is valor & hardinesse that provoketh them now to fight, but meere necessitie and compul∣sion enforceth them to the field. Vnlesse ye will beleeve, that they who when they had an entire armie, and unfoiled, refused battaile, should now have greater hope, and take more courage, after they have lost two parts of their horse and foote, in the very passage of the Alps; and of whome, there have more perished in a manner, than remaine alive. But will some man say, True it is, few [unspec E] they are in number, but stout in heart, and tall of hand, whose strength and puissance, no force is hardly able to abide. Images they are, nay to say more truly, the very shadowes of men, and no better; with hunger bitten, with cold starved, lost for want of keeping, spoiled with nastinesse and filthie ordure, brused and weakened amongst hard rocks and craggie cliffs: over and besides, joints and marrow dried up and burnt, their sinews shrunke, storke, and striffe againe with cold and chilling snow, their limmes singed with bitter frost, their armor crushed, bruised, & their wea∣pons broken: their horses, no other than lame jades and poore hidebound hildings. See what horsmen; lo what footmen ye are to fight withall. Beleeve me, ye shall have the verie reliques and last remnants of enemies, and not enemies indeed. And I assure you, nothing feare I more than this, that before ye shall skirmish with this kind of enemie, it will be thought thatthe Alpes al∣readie [unspec F] have vanquished and defaited Anniball. But peradventure it was so meete, and reason would, that the gods themselves without mans helpe, should against that captaine and nation, which had broken league and covenants, begin the warre first, set it in good forwardnesse, and bring it to the point of an end; and then we, who next to the gods have been offended & wron∣ged, should finish the same thus begun to our hands, and brought to so good a passe, I feare not

that any man here doth thinke, that I utter these brave and glorious words onely for to harten [unspec G] you, and that my selfe thinke otherwise in hart, than I speake with tongue. I might have gone my∣selfe well enough into Spaine, my proper and peculiar province, (where I had bene aforetime) and with an armie of mine owne: I should have had my brother there, both a counseller unto me in my distresses, and a companion with me in my dangers. I found Asdruball rather than Anniball mine enemie, and no doubt, the affaires and charge of the warre farre lesse than here. But when I sayled by the coast of France, and upon the bruit and newes of this enemie was set a land, I sent my Cavallerie before, and removed camp as farre as to Rhodanus, and in a bat∣taile of horsemen (for with that part of my forces it was my hap to encounter & fight) I discom∣fited the enemie: and for that by land I could not overtake his infanterie, (so hastilie they mar∣ched away, like men that fled) I was faine to returneto the sea, & embarke againe into my ships: [unspec H] and with as great expedition & speed as I could make (considering so great compasse about of sea and land) at the very foote of the Alpes, I was readie to encounter and affront him. Can it be thought then, that whiles I shunned and avoided fight, I fell by chance and at unwares upon this drad and redoubted enimie? or rather, that I followed him hard at heeles? and chalenged him, to draw him forth unto a battaile, thereby to have it decided who should have the victorie in the end? I would gladly make tryall, whether all of a sodaine the earth hath brought forth for these twentie yeares, Carthaginians, of another mould or new stampe: or whether they be the same that fought neere the Ilands Aegates, & whom ye sent away, and let go from Eryx, valued after the rate of 18* 1.68 deniers apeece, and no more: and faine would I see, whether this An∣niball be the concurrent of Hercules, to undertake his journeys and voyages, as he faith himselfe; [unspec I] or one left by his father, a tributarie, a vassal, and slave of the people of Rome: who; but that he is tormented in conscience for the outrage and crueltie committed upon Saguntum, would have some respect and regard, if not of his native countrie (conquered and subdued) yet of his owne house, of the peace & covenants written by his father Amilear, & his owne hand: Amilear (I say) who at the commandement of our Consull, removed his garison from Eryx; who fuming and storming, received with sorrowfull heart the grievous and heavie conditions of peace imposed upon the conquered Carthaginians; who capitulated & covenanted to abandon Sicilie, & to pay a tribute to the people of Rome: I would have you therefore (my hardie souldiours) to fight a∣gainst him, not onely with the same courage as ye do with other enimies, but in a certaine heate of choler and indignation, as if ye should see your owne servants and slaves on a sodaine to rise [unspec K] up in armes against you. We might well if we had bene so minded, when they were enclosed and shut fast up within Eryx, have put them to the utmost extremitie of all worldly paine, and fami∣shed them. We might have passed over with our victorious Annado into Affrike, and within, few dayes forced and rased Carthage, without any battaile fought. We pardoned them at their humble request, and tooke them to mercie; we let them out where they were besieged and be∣leaguerd; and notwithstanding that they were by us subdued, we made peace, & contracted ami∣tie with them: and afterward, when they were molested & distressed with the Africanes warre, we counted them within our protection. In recompense of these good favours and demerits; they come against us, under the leading of an humorous brainsick and furious yong man; to invade [unspec L] and assaile our countrie. And I would it had pleased God that we had all this warre for our ho∣nor only and reputation, and not for our safetie and our lives. But we are to fight now, not for the holding & possession of Sicilie & Sardinia, as in times past; but for our freehold, & the inhe∣ritance of Italie: and that which more is, there is no armie behind our backs; to withstand and make head against the enemie, if we chaunce to faile of victorie: neither are there any more Alpes, which while he is getting over, we might have leisure in the meane time to assemble and prepare new forces. Here in this very place (souldiers) must we stand to it, and make resistance, as if we were fighting under Rome walls. Let every man thinke that he is not onely to defend and ward his owne bodie; but to protect his wife and little children: and let every one regard and take care, not for his private aff••ires and domesticall charge, but estsoones consider this; That even now the Senate and people of Rome beholdeth and seeth our hardie deeds; and look•• how [unspec M] our force and valour now speedeth and sheweth itselfe; such from henceforth will the state and fortune be of that citie and Empire of Rome.

These words had the Consull to the Romans. But Anniball, supposing that his men were first to be encouraged by representation of some deedes, and then exhorted with words; having mar∣shalled

[unspec A] his armie in around compasse (as it were) to behold some spectacle in a Theatre: he set in the middest of them all, the prisoners mountainers, bound (as they were) hand and foot: and ca∣sting downe at their feet, the armour and weapons of the Gaules, hee demaunded of them by a a truchman, or an interpreter, Which of them (upon condition to be eased of his bands, and to have armor, & an horse of service, given him for a prise of victorie) would enter into combat, and fight at the utterance, for his life. And when they al answered with one voice, That they wold wish no better; & not one of them but called for a sword, and required to fight and therupon, the lots were shuffled to be cast, and not one there was but wished himselfe to be the man, whom fortune would chuse for the combate. Then every man as his lot fell, in token of cheerefulnesse and con∣tentment of spirit, leapt for joy among his fellowes that rejoiced in his behalfe, fell a dauncing af∣ter [unspec B] their manner, and so (hastily) took armes and weapons: all the while that they were in fight, there appeared such affection and disposition of mind, as well in them that were in the same state and condition, as also in those who stood there as spectators only in the multitude to looke on; that no lesse happie and fortunate were they accounted, whose chaunce it was to die in the place, than those who had the upper hand. Vpon the fight of some couples that were thus mat∣ched in combat, hee dismissed them: and whiles hee saw them in this good mind, so well affe∣cted and resolute, then hee assembled them all together to an audience, and thus by report hee spake unto them.

My valorous souldiors, if in the consideration of your owne fortune, yee will anon but beare that mind, which even now ye shewed in beholding the example of the state of others; the jour∣ney [unspec C] is ours, and we have the victorie. For that was not a dumbe shew and bare pageant, but a ve∣ry mirror and patterne of your owne condition: and I wote not, whether fortune hath compassed about with harder bonds and greater necessities, your owneselves, or your prisoners. On both hands, as well the right as the left, enclosed yee are, and shut up within two seas; and have not so much as one ship to embark in, for to escape away, and save yourselves. Before you neer at hand is the Po, a greater river, and more violent than Rhodanus: behind you are the Alpes to hemme you in; the Alpes, I say, which yee hardly passed when you were in heart and lustie. Here must yee either get victorie (sirs) or lose your lives, even where ye have first encountred your enemie: and the same fortune, which hath laid upon you necessitie of fight, presenteth & profereth unto you (if you go away with victorie) such rewards, as men use not to wish for greater and more honou∣rable [unspec D] at the hands of the immortall gods. If by our manhood and valour wee should but reco∣ver and win againe Sicilie and Sardinia, which were gotten from our fathers; those were rewards and prizes sufficient: but now, over and besides, what riches or treasure the Romanes in so manie triumphs, have gathered, laid up, and held in possession, all that will bee ours, yea, and the owners thereof themselves withall. Go to it then a gods name, and take arms, in assured hope of gaining so rich a bootie and reward. Yee have all this while beene long ynough a coursing and chasing the wild beasts in the wide and desart mountaines of * 1.69 Lusitania and * 1.70 Celtiberia, and have seene no recompence and fruit of your travailes and daungers: it is now high time for you to serve in the warres for good pay and rich rewards, and to receive great wages and prises for your labour and painful service; you that have measured so long a voiage, passed over so many moun∣tains [unspec E] and rivers, & marched through so many armed & warlike nations. Here is the place where fortune hath set down the utmost bound, & pitched the farthest point and limit of your labours; here will she give you a condign recompence and salarie, after you have served and followed the warres the full time, by order and law required. Never thinke that the victorie will be so hardly atchieved, as the warre in name is counted difficult. For oftentimes an enemie of small or no rec∣koning and regard, hath given a bloodie battaile; yea most noble States, most renowmed and glorious kings, have in the verie turning of an hand beene ouerthrowne. For, setting aside this goodly, gay, and glittering name onely of the Romanes, what is there wherein they are with you to be compared? To say nothing of that continual warfare of yours, for 20 years space, with such valiancie & happy successe: even from Hercules pillers, from the Ocean, from the utmost bounds [unspec F] of the earth through so many nations of Spain, and most fell and cruell Gauls, ye are come thus farre with victorie. And now shall ye fight with an armie of new and untrained soldiors, who no longer ago than this verie Summer, were beaten, put to the sword, vanquished, and besieged by the Gaules; an armie (to say a truth) not knowne at all to their own captaine, and as little acquain∣ted with him. And to speake of mine owne person, if not borne, yet at leastwise brought up in the

very tent and roiall pavilion of my father (a most noble warriour and renowmed captaine of his time) who have subdued Spaine, conquered Gaule, overcome not only the people of the Alpes, [unspec G] but that which is much more, the very Alpes themselves. Should I make comparison betweene my selfe, and this halfe-yeere-Captaine, who hath abandoned and left his owne campe and armie? Vnto whome, if a man should this day, present the Carthaginians and Romanes toge∣ther, without their ensignes and colours, hee could not tell, I dare well say, of whether armie hee were the leader and Consull. For I make no small account, I tell you of this (my tall fellowes) that there is not one of you all, who hath not many a time and often seene and beheld my selfe in person, performing some warlike and militarie exploit; and unto whome I (as beholder and eye-witnesse of his valour) cannot recount the time and place of his worthie deed and service. Then yee praised and commended me, then ye rewarded and honoured me with divers gifts and [unspec H] presents. And even I (who have been a souldior trained up and taught by you, before I was your generall) will march in battaile against them, that know not one another, and are unknowne like∣wise unto their captaine. Which way soever I turne and cast mine eyes, mee thinkes, I see all full of couragious stomacke, and forcible puissance. The footmen, old beaten and practised souldi∣ours; launces, and men of armes, with bard horses, and the light horsemen likewise, chosen forth of most hardie and valiant Nations: of one side, most faithfull and resolute allies; on the other, doubtie Carthaginians, readie to fight, as well in countries defence, as also for most just and due revenge. Wee come of our selves to make warre, and wee descend into Italie with banners displaied, resolved to fight with so much more courage, as they commonly who are assailants, have greater stomacke and more hope than the defendants. Over and besides, our hearts are [unspec I] kindled, and our minds pricked on and provoked with sence of injuries and indignities. First and formost they required, that I your Generall should be delivered unto them, as a condemned pri∣soner at the barre: then they would have had all you that were at the assault of Saguntum, yeel∣ded up into their hands, to be put to most extreame tortures and execution. A people they are, full of all excessive crueltie, insolent and prowd beyond all measure; they would have but all in their power, and at their disposition: they must prescribe, limit, and set downe, with whome wee should warre; with whom we may make peace; restraining and enclosing us within the terms and bounds of hils and rivers; which, forsooth, we must not passe: and they themselves keepe not the limits, which they appoint. Passe not (say they) Iberus in any wise; meddle not at all with the Sa∣guntines; come not neere them. Saguntum standeth upon the river Iberus, step not one foot for∣ward, [unspec K] we advise you. It sufficeth not their turne, that they have taken from us our auncient Pro∣vinces, Sicilie and Sardinia, unlesse they may have away Spaine too. And if I should depart from thence, and quit that realme also, they would not stay there, but will passe over streight into Af∣fricke: nay, they have sent over this yeare alreadie two Consuls, the one into Affricke, the other into Spaine: nothing have they left for us, but that which wee can win and hold with the swords point. Well may they bee cowards, and play the idle luskes, having a place of refuge to retire unto, who in their owne countrie and ground may be received, when they take their heels and run through waies without daunger, to save themselves. As for us, it stands us upon to play the men, and to make account of no meane dessignes betweene victorie and death, but upon certaine despaire of all shifts besides, either to obtaine victorie; or if fortune shall faile and give [unspec L] us the soile, chuse rather to die fighting, than to be killed flying. If this be setled and deepely im∣printed in your hearts, if this be your resolution, I will say once againe, The day is yours. A more poignant and sharper goad, than this, to provoke men to victorie, never gave the immortal gods to any whatsoever.

When by these Orations, the souldiours hearts of both sides were inflamed to fight, the Ro∣manes made a bridge over Ticinus: and for defence of the bridge, erected a sconce and forte thereupon. But Anniball while the enemies were busie at worke, sent Maharball with a Comet of Numidians, to the number of 500 light horsemen, to overrun and wast the territories belon∣ging to the allies of the people of Rome: commaunding him withall, to make as great-spare of the Gaules as he could, and to sollicite and persuade their Nobles and Lords unto rebellion. Af∣ter the bridge was finished, the Romane armie passed over into the Insubrians countrey, encam∣ped [unspec M] themselves upon certaine hils, five miles off from a village where Anniball also lay in campe: who seeing there was a battaile toward, sent speedily for Maharball backe againe, and the horsemen; and thinking belike, that he could never say ynough to his souldiors, & admonish

[unspec A] them sufficiently to do well & animate them to fight, he called them all again together to an audi∣ence; where he proposed, & promised unto them openly, certain assured rewards, the hope wher∣of might incite them to fight: namely, Imprimis, that he would indue them with faire lands, in Ita∣ly, Astrcke, or Spaine, where they would themselves, to have, & to enjoie to him and to his heires for ever, as free hold in frank tenure, without service: if anyone would chuse to have money rather than land, him he would content with silver. Item, of the Allies, as many as hereafter were de∣sirous to be enfranchised citizens of Carthage, they should have their free burgeosie: and those that had a mind rather to returne home againe, he would endeavour and bring about that he should live so well, as not one of them would wish for to exchange his stare with any of his neighbours and countrimen whatsoever. Last of all, looke what bond-servants attended and [unspec B] followed their maisters, tothem he promised freedome; and that in lieu of them, hee would deliver againe unto their maisters, two for one, of the slaves taken captives in warre. And that they might be assured, that he would performe all these behests and promises; he held with his left hand a Lambe, and in the right a flint stone, and praied solemnely, That if hee failed herein, Iupiter and the rest of the gods, would so kill him, as hee slew that Lambe: and presently after his praier done, he smote the Lambe on the head, and dasht out the braines. Whereat they all every one, conceived & embraced assured hope unto themselves, that the gods said Amen and were on their side: & supposing that the only stay of enjoying their hopes, & obtaining their re∣wards, was, because they had not fought alreadie; with one heart and voice they called for battell.

The Romanes for their part, were nothing so cheerefull and lustie: for besides other things, [unspec C] they were affrighted with new prodigies and feareful fights. For it happened that a Wolfe entred their campe, and after he had worried and tome those that came in his way, escaped unhurt and untouched. Also a swarme of Bees setled upon a tree that grew over the Generall his pavilion. Which straunge tokens being purged and cleered by an expiatorie sacrifice, Scipio with his Ca∣vallerie & darters lightly appointed, went toward the campe of the enemie, to view neere hand their forces, & to observe how many & of what condition & qualitie they were: and there he en∣countred Annibal, who also was gone forth with his horsmen to descrie & discover the countrie about. At the first they saw not one another, but afterwards, by reason of the thicke dust that rose upon the march of so many men and horses, they knew that enemies approached neere. On both sides the battaillons made a stand, and every man buckled himselfe to the skirmish. Sci∣pio [unspec D] placed his archers and horsemen of the Gaules in the forfront: the Romanes and strength of allies, he bestowed behind for succours in the reregard. Anniball set in this battaile, his great bar∣bed horses with his launces & men of armes, & strengthned the wings with Numidian horsinen. The very first charge & showt was scarce done, when the archers aforesaid retired among the rere∣ward in the second battaillon: by occasion wherof, the horsemen alone fought a good while in equall battaile: yea and afterwards, because the footmen that were intermingled among trou∣bled and disordred the horses, many either fel, or else alighted from their horses, to go thither where they saw their fellows to be environed & overcharged. The medley became very doubtfull in many places until such time as the Numidians (who were in the wings) wheeling about by little and little, shewed themselves behind the backs of the Romanes; this feareful fight troubled them [unspec E] greatly, and the feare was encreased by reason of the Consul his hurt; the extream danger wher∣of, was put by and avoided by the reskew of his sonne (then a verie stripling as yet, and scarce had airy haire upon his face) this youth is he, who had the honour of happy ending this warre, surna∣med afterwards (upon the noble victorie and memorable conquest over Anniball & the Cartha∣ginians) Assricanus. But the archers were they that fled fastest away, even those whom the Nu∣midians set upon first. The rest that were horsemen, keeping thicke and close together, recovered the Consull within their files into the mids of them: and protecting him not onely with their weapons, but also with their bodies, brought him backe safe, unto the campe; retiring all the way, neither disorderly, nor like fearefull men overhastily. The honour of saving the Consull, Ca∣lius attributeth unto a bondslave of Liguria. But I verily would rather beleeve it of the sonne: [unspec F] which also the greater number of authors doe affirme, but the common same goeth of the said bondslave. This was the first battaile with Anniball: wherein it easily appeared, that the Car∣thaginians were better in Cavallerie, and therefore the open plaine field such as were betweene the Po and the Alpes, were not so good for the Romanes to fight in. The night following ther∣fore, Scipio commaunded his soldiors secretly without any noise to trusse up bag and baggage,

and to dislodge: and removed from Ticinus, & made hast to Po: that whiles his boats were not [unspec G] yet unloosed one from the other, in which (as upon a bridge) he had brought over his armie, he might without any trouble & pursuit of the enemie, conduct the same backe againe. And they came to Placentia before that Anniball knew they were departed from Ticinus: howbeit, hee tooke some of them that made stay on the hether side of the banke, as they were too slow about disjoining and loosening the foresaid bridge of boates: upon which he could not passe over, by reason that when both ends were let loose, the planks and all, went downe the water with the streame. Caelius writeth, that Mago with his horses, and Spanish footmen, presently, swam over the river; and that Anniball himselfe led over his armie at the upper fourds of Po: for which purpose, hee set the Elephants along on arow to breake and beare off the violence and streame of the current. A thing surely that they were hardlyable to doe, who were skilfull and by long [unspec H] experience knew the nature of the river verie well. For it soundeth not like a truth, that horsemen with their armor and horses safe, could overcome so great a rage of the river, although we should graunt that all the Spaniards gat over upon blown bladders or leather bouges; and besides, they had needed many daies to fetch a compasse for to find the fourds of Po, over which, the armie (la∣den with cariage) might be conveied. But those authors cary more credit and authoritie with me, who write that scarcely in two daies they found a place to make a bridge (of planks-joyned toge∣ther) over the river, and that Mago and the Spanish light-horsemen were sent that way over before.

Whiles Anniball on this side the river, staied in giving audience to the embassages of the Gaules, he conducted over the regiments of footmen more heavily armed: in the meane while, [unspec I] Mago and the horsemen, after they had passed the river, marched one * 1.71 daies journey apace to∣ward daies journey apace to∣ward the enemies at Placentia. And Anniball (few daies after) encamped himselfe strongly six miles from Placentia: and the morrow after in the sight of the enemies he put his men in array, and made them offer of battaile. The night following, there was a petie massacre committed in the Romans camp by the Gauls that came to aid: but greater was the garboile and tumult, than the harme indeed. For about 2000 footemen and 200 horsemen, having slaine the warders at the gates, fled away to Anniball: whom he spake courteously unto, and when he had drawne them on, in hope of great gifts and rewards, he dismissed every one into his owne citie and coun∣trie, to sollicite and persuade their countriemen to side with him. Scipio taking that massacre as a foretoken and ouverture to the Gaules revolt in generall; and supposing, that now being once [unspec K] guiltie and tainted with this offence, they would in a madnesse runne all to take arms and rise. Al∣though still hee were sore of his late wound, yet the night following at the reliefe of the 4 watch, he marched stilly, and removed his campe neere the river Trebia, into the higher countries, and hils, that were more troublesome for men of armes. But he wrought not so closely and without the knowledge of the enemie, as hee did at Ticinus. For Anniball having sent out, first, the Numidian light horse, and then all his Cavallerie; without question had disordered and endam∣maged the rereward, but that the Numidians for greedinesse of prey and bootie, diverted aside, and turned into the tents, abandoned and forsaken of the Romanes. Where, whiles they spend time in ransaking and rifling everie corner of the campe (and when all was done, could find no pillage worth the stay) the enemie escaped their hands. And when as they had espied that the [unspec L] Romanes were newly gotten over Trebia, and pitching out a plot for a campe, they intercepted a few of them that lingred about the river, and flew them. Scipio not able now to abide any lon∣ger the griefe and paine of his wound, by reason of the shaking and shogging of his bodie as he travailed, and thinking it good to expect the comming of the other Consull his Colleague, (whom he heard alreadie to be sent for out of Sicily) chose out a place neere the river which see∣med most safe for to encampe in, and it he fortified. Anniball also lay nor farre off in campe; who as he was proud upon the late battaile of horsemen, so was he perplexed for want of victuals, which scarsitie encreased upon him everie day more and more, as he travailed through the ene∣mies countrie, finding in no place provision aforehand. Whereupon, he went to Clastidium, a towne wherein the Romanes had bestowed and laid up great store of graine: where, as he pre∣pared [unspec M] with violence to force the towne, there appeared some hope of treason, by corrupting of P. Brundisinus, the captaine of the garison there, and that with no great summe of mony: for in consideration onely of 400 peeces of gold given unto him, Clastidium was betraied unto An∣niball: the verie storehouse and garner of corne that the Carthaginians had, all the while they

[unspec A] were in leaguer neere Trebia. Vpon those prisoners that were taken when the garrison and sort was betraied, he exercised no crueltie, because that in the beginning of his affaires, he would win himselfe a name and opinion of clemencie.

Whiles the warre by land continued thus at Trebia, there had bene some warlike exploits atchieved both by sea and land about Sicilie, and the Ilands that lye against Italie neere unto it, both by Sempronius the Consull, and also before his comming. Twentie gallies with five ranks of ores, and a thousand armed men, were sent from the Carthaginians to invade and wast the coasts of Italie. Nine of them arrived at * 1.72 Liparae: eight fell with the Iland of * 1.73 Vulcane, and three were driven by tempest into the streights of Sicilie. Against them, being descryed within kenning, there were twelve ships set out from * 1.74 Messana, by Hiero King of the Saracosians, who [unspec B] hapned at that time to be in Messana, attending the Romane Consull his comming; and with∣out any resistance made, he bourded those three ships, & brought them away into the haven of Messana. By those that were taken prisoners, it was knowne, that besides the 20. ships aforesaid, sent against Italy, (of which Fleetethey were) 35 gallies of 5 course of ores, made saile for Sicilie, to solicit and persuade the old allies there to revolt. Item, that the especiall point and designe that they shot at, was to seize upon * 1.75 Lilybaeum: but they thought verily that by the same ghust of tempest wherein they were scattered, that other fleete also was cast upon the Iland Aegates. And according to this intelligence, the king from Messana writeth to Aemylius the Romane Pretor or governor of Sicilie, advising him to keepe a strong garison in Lilybaeum: whereupon the Lieute∣nants & Colonels about the Pretor, were sent from him with all speede to all the cities about, to [unspec C] give order, that their people might be in readinesse, to keepe good ward, & above all, to hold Li∣lybaeum sure. And for preparation of war, there went forth a proclamation, that the sailers & ma∣riners should bring into the ships ten dayes provision of victuals & meate readie dressed, to the end that upon the signall given at an houres warning, without all delay, they should a shipboord: Also that all those that dwelt along the coast, should from their Sentinels, watch-towers, and beacons, espie when the enemies fleete approched. Now (albeit the Carthaginians of purpose stayed the course of their ships, that they might come iust before day to Lilibaeum) they were discovered, both for that the Moone shone all night, and also because they came under sayle which they had haulsed up. So soone therefore as the signall was given out of the Sentinels and watch-towers, & alarme cryed in the towne, the mariners were soone embarked, the souldiers also [unspec D] were bestowed, some to man & guard the walls, and guard the gates, others to serve in the ships. But the Carthaginians perceiving, they were to deale with them that were provided for them, (as being advertised of their comming) forbare to enter the haven untill day, and imployed the time in striking sayles, in untackling their ships, and in preparing them for a battaile. When it was broad day light, they retired into the deepe, to have sea roome enough to fight, and that the enemies ships might have free egresse out of the haven. The Romanes for their part refused not battaile, comforting themselves with the remembrance of the valiant exploits performed in that very place, and trusting also upon the number and valor of their souldiours. They were not so soone launched into the open sea, but the Romanes were desirous to grapple, and to come close to hand-fight: but contrarywise, the Carthaginians held off allose, willing to pro∣ceede [unspec E] by cunning and pollicie, more than by strength and fine force; and to make triall rather of the nimblenesse & agilitie of their ships, than either of the prowesse of men, or goodnesse of ar∣mour: for as their fleete was sufficiently furnished and to the full, with a multitude of mariners, so was it ill provided of souldiors: and wheresoever they grappled together, and came to hand∣fight, they had not an egall number of men armed to hold play with the enemies: which be∣ing once perceived, the Romanes gathered heart, and redoubled their courage, by reason of their number; the other side againe were discouraged and out of heart, for their default of soul∣diours. In so much as seven Carthaginian gallies were soone invested round and bourded, the rest fled. Of souldiours and mariners together, 1700 were in them taken; amongst whom, there were three great Gentlemen of Carthage. The Romane fleete stil entier and whole, save one ves∣sell [unspec F] onely that was bouged and pierced (yet able to be brought back) returned into the heaven.

Presently after this battaile, and before that they of Messana had knowledge thereof, T. Sem∣pronius the Consull arrived at Messana: and as he entred within the sound, king Hiero met him, with a fleete well furnished, and richly decked, and comming forth of his royall ship into the Admirall of the Consuls, he welcomed him, and reioyced for the safe returne of his men and

ships, and prayed God, that his voiage into Sicilie might proove happie and fortunate. Then [unspec G] shewed he unto him the present estate, and the affaires of the Iland; opened the designements of the Carthaginians; and promised withall, that with as good a mind and found hart, as in the former warre against the Carthaginians, when he was a yong man, he had aided the people of Rome; so now in his old age he would assist them: and for proofe hereof, he would of his owne free cost furnish both the Consuls legions, and also the mariners with corne and rayment. Among other matters, he enformed him how Lilybaeum, & other cities of the sea coast were in great danger, by reason of some among them that desired a change & alteration. Whereupon, the Consull though good to make no delay, but to set saile with all speede to Lilybaeum, whome the king and his royall fleete accompanyed: and as they were fayling, tidings came of the fore∣said battaile before Lilybaeum, and how the enemies ships were either scattered & put to flight, [unspec H] or bourded and taken.

The Consull having bid king Hiero adieu, with his fleete set sayle from Lilybaeum, lea∣ving behinde him the Pretor to defend the coast of Sicilie, and crossed the sea himselfe to the Iland * 1.76 Melita, which was held by the Carthaginians. At whose comming, Amilcar the sonne of Gisga, Captaine of the garrison there, rendered himselfe, and 2000 souldiours with∣in a very few, together with the towne & the Iland. From whence, within few dayes he returned to Lilybaeum: where, the prisoners (excepting certain noble persons of high parentage) were by the Consull and the Pretor both, sold openly in portsale. When the Consul thought Sicilie on that coast sure enough, he set sayle from thence toward the Ilands of Vulcane, for that the bruit went that a fleete of Carthaginians there lay at roade: but there were no enimies to be found about [unspec I] those Ilands: for it chanced they were alreadie passed over to wast along the river and coast of Italie; and having forayed the territorie of * 1.77 Vibo, they put the citie also in great feare. As the Consull returned back againe to Sicilie, tidings came that the enimie had made rodes into the countrie of Vibona: and he received letters also from the Senate, concerning the comming of Anniball into Italie, and therefore that he should with all speede possible aid and succour his Colleague. The Consull being at once troubled with many cares, presently embarked his ar∣mie, and by the Adriatike sea, sent them away to * 1.78 Ariminum. To Sext. Pomponius his Lieute∣nant, he gave the charge of 25 Gallies for the defence of the territorie of Vibo, and the sea coast of Italie. VVith M. Aemylius the Pretor, he left a fleete augmented to the number of fiftie sayle: which done, and all things set in order in Sicilie, himselfe with ten ships coasted along Italie, and [unspec K] arived at * 1.79 Ariminum, from whence he put himselfe in his iourney, and marched with one armie to the river * 1.80 Trebia, where he joyned with his fellow Consull. Now were both Consuls, and the whole puissance and force of the Romanes opposed against Anniball, so as it appea∣red plainely, that either with that powre the empire of Rome might be defended, or else all their hope was gone. Howbeit, one of the Consuls being weakened and discourage with the defea∣ture of his horsemen in one battaile, and dismayed besides with the hurt that he had received in his bodie, desired to have the fight deferred: but the other comming fresh and lustie, and there∣by more hardie, would abide no delay.

It fell out so at that time, that the Gaules inhabited all the countrey betweene the two rivers Trebia, and Po: who whiles these two most puissant nations were at strife and warred, held off as [unspec L] newters, and favoured neither side, making full account of the good will and grace of that part which should have the better. The Romanes because they would now make no stirre, and have no more yrons in the fire, tooke the matter well enough: but Anniball was very much thereat offended, geving out eftsoones, that he was sent for by the Gaules for their deliverance and li∣bertie. Vpon this indignation and displeasure, and for that also he would feede his men with booties, he commaunded 2000 footmen, and a thousand horsemen, most of them Numidians, and some Gaules among, to overrun & spoile all the countrie forward, even to the banks of Po. The Gaules standing in need of helpe, and having untill that time kept themselves in doubtfull tearmes, were forced to turne from those that offered them wrong, and to encline and cleave unto the Romanes that should revenge their injuries and protect them. Whereupon they sent [unspec M] Embassadours to the Consuls, requesting the Romanes helpe for their land, which by reason of the exceeding fidelitie, and too much loialtie of the inhabitants toward them, was now endaun∣gered. Cornelius liked neither the cause, nor yet the time to deale in such affaires: he had the na∣tion besides in suspition and jealousie, as well for many trecherous parts, as also (in case he would

[unspec A] or could forget all other leaud pranckes of theirs) for the late disloialtie and falshood of the Boians. Sempronius contrariwise thought it the surest bond to keepe their allies, in faith and al∣legeance, to defend those that came first to band and side with him. But notwithstanding his Colleague cast doubts and held off, yet he sent his own Cavalletie, and a thousand well neere of footmen darters amongst them, to guard the countrie of Gaule beyond Trebia: who comming suddainely upon the enemies, and charging them at unwares, as they came scattered asunder, and out of order, yea, and most of them laden with spoile, mightily affrighted them, and made a foule slaughter, and pursued them in flight, as farre as to their standing campe, and corps de guard. From whence (neverthelesse) they were beaten backe by the multitude that issued forth: but by new succours from their owne companies, they renued the medley againe. The fight af∣terward [unspec B] was doubtfull and variable: and although they made a saving bargain on both parts, yet the common voice gave the honour of victorie (such as it was) to the Romanes rather than the enemies. But no man made a greater matter of it, and reckoned it more to the full, than the Con∣sull himselfe.

He joyed, he made his boast, that lie had gotten the better, with the helpe of the same forces, which under the conduct of the other Consull, came by the worse. And now (faith he) the souldiours are comforted and refreshed well ynough, and none there is but my brother Consull that would have the battaile differred: who no doubt is more hen-hearted than bodily hurt; & for the remembrance and smart of a little green wound, quaketh to hear of the field, and of all things cannot away with edge-tooles. But we must not thus sit still here, and wexe aged for the pleasure of one crasie and sickly person. For what reason is it, that we should drive off longer, [unspec C] and spend more time in vaine? What other Consull expect we to make up the third? or what ar∣mie besides should we looke for? The Carthaginians lie encamped in Italie, and welneer within the view and sight of the citie of Rome: and it is neither Sicilie nor Sardinia taken from them by conquest, nor Spaine on this side Iberus, which they shoot at, to win again: but that the Romans should be thrust out of their native soile and countrie wherein they were borne, that is their drift and dessignement. Oh how deepely (quoth hee) would our fathers sigh, how hartily would they grone, they who were wont to mannage warre about the wals of Carthage, if they should see us their off-spring and children, two Consuls with Consular and roiall armies in the middest of Ita∣lie, frighted thus and panting for feare within our campe? And that Anniball hath subdued and brought under his subjection all the countrie betweene the Alpes and Apenninum? These and [unspec D] such like speeches uttered he to his Colleague, as he sat by his beds side, where he lay sicke: thus spake he, as in an open audience, in the Coss. pavilion and all that quarter, to the souldiours.

The time also of the Election of Magistrates at Rome, being so neere at hand, set him forward; for feare, least the war should be deferred unto the new Coss. and the opportunitie withall, of winning all the honor to himselfe-whiles his Collegue continued sick, pricked him on. VVhereupon, for all the contradiction of Cornelius, which he nothing weighed and regarded, commaundement hee gave to his souldiours to be readie, to give battaile anone unto the enemie. Anniball as one that knew and saw well ynough what was best and safest for his enemie, could hardly imagine or con∣ceive any hope to himselfe, that the Consuls would enterprise any thing rashly, or without ad∣visement: but when he understood by hear-say, that which afterwards by good proofe and expe∣rience [unspec E] he found true, namely, that the one of them by nature was hote, hastie, prowd, and furious: and supposing, that he was the prowder and more furious for the late good hand hee had of his forragers; made no doubt and distrust of the happie successe and issue of a battaile, whensoever it should come. Marry, carefull hee was, that no good time and opportunitie presented unto him, should be overslipt: but to trie the hazard and fortune of the field, whiles the enemies soldiors were raw and untrained; and the better and wiser man of the two Generals, was unmeet for ser∣vice, by reason of his wound as yet uncured; and the courages of the Gaules lustie and fro∣ward: for well he wist, that a mightie number of them would the more unwillingly follow, the fur∣ther they were drawne from their owne home. Anniball, I say, hoping that by these and such like occasions, a battaile would be soone offered; desirous also himselfe to bid battaile, if the enemie [unspec F] staied long; and being advertised besides by the Gaules, his espials (whom he emploied to hear∣ken out and learne what he desired to know, and thought them more sure, because they served in both campes) that the Romans were readie for the field; then began he (crastie Carthaginian as he was) to seeke out a convenient place for an ambush. Now there was in the mid way betweene, a river running within the borders, having very high banks of either side, and therfore lying close

hidden, and all about overspread with moorie weeds, with briers, brambles, & brushwood, as for [unspec G] the most part, such forlet places are overgrowne withall. Which when Anniball in person had ridden about, and well viewed, perceiving that it would affoord lurking holes handsome ynough even for horsemen there to be hidden, This shall bee the place (quoth he, to his brother Mago) which you shall keepe. Chuse therefore out of all the horse and foot a hundred lustie tal fellowes of each; and see you repaire with them to me at the first watch, for now is it time to take repast, and to refresh your bodies. And with that he sent out to the campe the criers, to call the souldi∣ours to supper. And long it was not, but Mago was come with his chosen men. I see (quoth An∣niball) yee are goodly men of person, and sufficient. And that yee may be as able in number, as hardie in courage, elect yee also out of the cornets of horse and squadrons of foot, nine a peece such as yourselves to sort withall. Mago shall shew you the ground where ye must lie in ambush: [unspec H] you shall find the enemie as blind as beetles, altogether unacquainted with these feats and cun∣ning devises.

Thus Anniball having committed unto Mago•• thousand horsemen, and as many footmen, himselfe betimes in the morning, willed the Numidian Cavallerie, when they were passed over the river Trebia, to ride braving before the gates of the enemies, and by darting and shooting into their guards, to provoke and draw them foorth to fight: with this direction moreover, when the skirmish was begun, to fall off, and seeme to retire by little and little, and so to traine them on this side the river. This charge had the Numidians. But the other captaines, as well of foot as horse, were commaunded to set their companies all to their breakfast: which done, to arm them∣selves, and with their horses readie sadled, to attend the signall of battaile. Sempronius upon the [unspec I] al'arme and hurliburlie of the Numidians, as being forward and desirous of fight, first brought forth all his horsemen, and bare himselfe bold and confident in that service; after that, sixe thou∣sand footmen; and at last, all his whole forces; & led them to a place which before, he had dessig∣ned and appointed in his mind. It fell out to be in VVinter, about the middest of December, and a snowie day it was in those parts lying betweene the Alpes and Apenninum. Now by reason of the rivers and moores so neere, both horse and men were exceeding cold: also for that they were hastily on a suddaine, called foorth fasting, and unprovided of all meanes against the cold, they had never a whit of heare left in them: and the neerer they came to the aire and va∣pour of the river, the sharper cold pinched and pierced them through. But when as once they followed upon the Numidians that gave backe, and were entred into the water (which by reason [unspec K] of the raine that fell by night was risen breast-high) they were not so soone gotten out againe of the river, but all their bodies began to chill, and be stiffe againe for cold, that scarcely they could hold their weapons: & withall, as the day went furtheron, for very hunger they fainted. But Anni∣ball his souldiours, who in the meane time had made fires before their tents, and had oyle sent them to every companie, for to supple and soften their joints and lims, had taken their repast, and eaten at leasure; when they heard say, that the enemies were passed the river, with hearts coura∣gious and bodies fresh and lustie, take them to their weapons, and came foorth to fight in ordi∣nance of battel. The Baleares, & light armed men, to the number almost of 8000, he raunged be∣fore the standards in the front: after them he placed the footmen, better appointed and armed to the proofe, even the very strength & manhood of all his forces: about the wings he set 10000 [unspec L] horsemen, and behind those wings, hee devided and appointed his Elephants both on the one side and the other.

The Consull Sempronius seeing his horsemen following the chase on the spur, and out of or∣der; and how at unwares they were charged againe by the Numidians, who upon a suddain tur∣ned and made head upon them, sounded the retreat: and when they were rallied about him, hee compassed his footmen with them. The Romanes were in number 18000, of Allies and Latines 20000, besides the aides of the * 1.81 Cenomanes: which Nation of the Gaules onely, continued faithful and true to the Romans. VVith these forces came they into the field, & began the barrell: The first charge of the skirmish was given by the Ilanders of Baleares, upon whom, when the le∣gions made head with greater violence, their light armed men were quickly brought into the wings: which was a cause that the Romane horsemen presently were surcharged and distressed. [unspec M] For where as of themselves they were but 4000 horse, and hardly able to withstand the shock of ten thousand horsemen of theother, the Romanes also were wearied, but most of the Carthagi∣nians fresh and untainted: over and besides, they were overwhelmed with a cloud (as it were) of

[unspec A] darts, flong and shot by the Beleare Ilanders: Mooreover the Elephants which appeared alost from the hinmost ends of the wings frighted the horses especially, & not onely with the straunge sight, but also with as uncouth a sent and favor; made them flie everie way. The battaile of the Infanterie was egall in courage of heart, rather than in strength of bodie which the Carthagini∣ans, (as having a little afore taken repast) brought fresh with them into the field: but contrariwise the Romanes were fasting & wearie, and for cold even starke and benummed. Howheit their sto∣macks would have served to have held out & withstood to the end, if they might have fought with footmen onely. But both the Baleares, having disordred the horsemen, flanked them with their shot, and also the elephants by this time were entred into the middle battaillon of footmen: and withall, Mago and the Numidian light horse (so soone as this battaillon was unawares gone past [unspec B] their ambushment and lurkingholes) start up and arose from behind, and put them in excee∣ding trouble and fright. Yet for all these inconveniences and disvantages (so many on everie side) the maine battaile a good while stood unmoveable and stirred not, but kept the array; and especially (beyond the expectation of all men) against the Elephants. For certaine footmen placed for the purpose, by flinging of darts forced them to turne head: and when they were once turned from wards, they followed hard upon them, pricking & gaulling them under the tailes, in which place by reason of the tender skin they are soon wounded. Whom when Annibal saw thus feared & readie to turne upon their owne part, from the maine battaile to the flancks & outsides, he commanded them to be driven to the left wing upon the Gauls that came to aid, and presently enforced them to run away. The Romanes seeing their auxiliarie Gaules put to flight, were dri∣ven [unspec C] into a new feare. Whereupon fighting now as it werein a ring and round on both sides, there were among them to the number almost of ten thousand, who seeing no way else to escape, brake through the middle battaillon of the Africanes, which was strengthned with the aide of the Gaules, and that, with a great slaughter of their enemies: and seeing they neither could re∣turne into their campe (the river being between) nor for the raine well discerne how to succour their fellowes, they tooke the way straight to Placentia. After this, the rest brake forth in all parts. They that tooke the river either perished in the streames and whirlepooles: or such as made stay to enter, were by the enemie overtaken and slaine. But as many as here and there fled skattering through the fields, following the footing and tracks of the battaillon that retired backe, came to Placentia. Some for feare of the enemie, aduentured boldly to take the river, and being once [unspec D] over, recovered the campe. The raine and snow together, and the intollerable cold killed many as well men as beastes: and in manner all the Elephants. The Carthaginians followed the ene∣mies in chase as farre as Trebia, and there gave over: and returned into the campe so clumsie and frozen, as scarcely they felt the joy of their victorie. By reason whereof, the night following, when as the gard of the Romane campe, and the remnant of that great companie of soldiors pas∣sed Trebia with float-boats and flat barges, the Carthaginians either perceived them not indeed for the noise the tempesteous raine made, or for wearinesse & sore wounds were not able to stirre, and therfore made semblance, as though they knew not of it. And so whiles the Carthaginians were at rest, the armie was by Scipio the Consull brought (in a still march) to Placentia: and from thence having crossed the Po, came to Cremona, because one Colonie alone should not be [unspec E] charged with the wintering of two armies at one time.

Vpon this defeature and overthrow, there arrived such fearefull tidings to Rome, that they be∣leeved verily and looked for no other but that the enemie would come with banner displaied streight to the verie cittie: and that there was no hope or help left behind to defend their gates and wals from assault & violence. For seeing that the one Consull was vanquished at Ticinus, and the other also, who was called unto him from out of Sicily; since both Consuls, & two consular armies were thus defeated, what other captains, what Legions remained now to be sent for, to aid? As they were in this agonie and feare, Sempronius, the Consull came home: who with verie great daunger had passed through the enemies Cavallerie, which was spread heere there all about, to fetch in booties; and more by venterous hardinesse than good advise and hope, either to misse [unspec F] them unespied, or to resist if he had hapned upon them, he got away. And after he had held the assemblie for electon of the Consuls (the onely thing above all other for that present most desired) he returned into his standing campe to winter in. Now there were created Consuls, Cn.Servilius, and Cn. Flaminius the second time.

Howbeit the Romanes were not in quiet within their wintering campe: for the Numidian

horsmen raunged about, and made excursions into every quarter, and (those who troubled and [unspec G] empeached them, more than they) the Celtiberians and Portugals. Whereby all convoy of victuals from everie part was stopped, but onely that which came by the Po, in Keeles and such like vessels. Neere to Placentia there was a merchants towne, both fortified strong 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and also well furnished with a good garrison: upon hope to force that castle or towne, Anniball went with his horse and foot, lightly armed; and supposing that to cary the matter coyertly, would availe much to the effecting of his purposed enterprise, he came upon them in the night; howbeit he was not so close and secret, but he was descried by the watch: who sodainly set up such an al'arme, that it was heard as farre as Placentia. Whereby, the Consull somewhat before day was there with his Cavallerie, having commaunded the Infanterie to march on after, raunged in a square battaillon. In the meane while, the horsemen skirmished, wherein Anniball was hurt, [unspec H] and departed out of the medley, by which meanes the enemies were frighted, and the castle and hold manfully defended. After few daies that he had taken his ease, before he was well cured of his wound, he went forward to assault Vicunvie. That was a towne also of merchandise (or mart towne) and had beene fortified by the Romanes in the Gaules warre. Whereupon, the people bordring thereabout on everie side, used thither to make repaire, & much frequented the same: and even then for feare of rodes & excursions many of the pesants & rural people retired them∣selves thither for refuge. This multitude (such as they were) upon the report of the valiant holding and defence of the fort by Placentia, were encouraged, and tooke armes, and went forth to en∣counter Anniball. And in the mid-way they chaunced to affront him and skirmish, in no battaile ray, but as they marched disorderly: whereas therfore they were on the one side, none but a [unspec I] rude and confused sort; and on the other side, both a captaine that might trust his soldiours, and soldiors also that might reckon upon their captain, there were to the number of 35000, dis∣comfited & put to flight, even by a few of their enemies. The morrow after, they yeelded them∣selves, and received a garrison within the wals: and so soone as upon commandement to give up their armour, they had obeied & so done; presently a signal was given to the conquerors to sade and spoile the towne, as if it had been forced by assault: where there was not forgotten and omit∣ted any calamitie whatsoever, that might afford in such as case, memorable matter and sufficient argument for writers to record. So pitifull examples were practised upon the poore seely wret∣ches, of all loosenesse and lust, crueltie, and inhumaine pride and outrage. And these were the expeditions and emprises of Anniball atchieved for this wintertime.

[unspec K]

After this, the soldiours tooke repose, but no longer than the intollerable cold lasted: For im∣immediatly upon the verie first and doubtfull tokens of spring, he departed from his wintring hold, and led his armie into Tuscane, purposing to adioine unto him (either by force or love) that nation also, as wel as the Gauls and Ligurians. But as he passed over Apeninum, there arose so terrible a storme & tempest, & surprised him, that it surmounted well neer the foule trouble and encombrance endured in the Alpes. For the wind and raine together did beat & drive upon their verie faces. At the first, for that either they were to lay away their armour, or else in striving and labouring to march on against the weather, & by the whirlepuffes of wind turned round about, and readie to beeborne downe, they stood still: but when as nowe the violence and furie of the storme, stopped their breaths, and suffered them not to take their wind at will, they were faine to [unspec L] turne their backes, and sit them downe on the ground for a time. Then see, the skie thundred amaine, and made an horrible noise, & amid those terrible crackes redoubled, it lightened thick. Whereupon, they lost their hearing and seeing; and for feare, all of them became astonied. At length it poured downe, and thereby the wind & storme encreased more forceablie upon them. Whereupon they were driven to this necessitie, even to pitch their camp'in that verie place where they were so suddainely caught and overtaken by tempest. But that was to them the beginning of a new toile and travaile: for neither could they spread and display ought, nor pitch any thing surely: neither would that which was pight downe, continue and abide the wind, which rent, tare, and broke everie thing, and hurried it cleane away. And within a while, the water that fell, and by reason of the wind was raised alost, being congealed once upon the cold tops of the hils, [unspec M] turned into a kind of haile and snow together, & came upon them with such a force, that leaving all things els, the men were forced to lie along, groveling upon their faces, rather stifled and smo∣thered; than covered with their hillings. Hereupon insued a frost, so violent and outrageous, that of that miserable and pittifull heape of men and beasts, that lay there along, there was not one

[unspec A] for a good while could raise and lift up himselfe when hee would; by reason, that for starke cold their sinewes were benummed; that they could hardly bend and bow their joints. Afterwards, at length, when with bestirring and chausing their limmes, they gat some heat, and came againe to themselves and that here and there in some places they began to make fires; every one that had no meanes so to doe, ran and fled to the succour and helpe of others. Thus for two daies they re∣mained there pinned up as if they had beene besieged. Many a man and beast, and seven Ele∣phants also of them that remained after the battaile at Trebia, were starved and perished.

By occasion hereof, Anniball departed from Apenninus, back againe toward Placentia: and when he had marched ten miles on his way, he sate him downe and encamped. The morrow af∣ter, he led against the enemie 12000 foot, and 5000 horse. Sempronius the Consull also, beeing [unspec B] now returned from Rome, refused not battaile: and the same day, the enemies were distant but three miles asunder. The morrow after they fought on each side most fiercely and courageously, and with variable event and fortune. At the first onset, the Romanes had the better hand, so farre forth, as that not onely in fight they overcame their enemies, but also after they had discomfited them, and put them backe, they chased them into their campe, and anone assailed the same. An∣niball having ordained some few to defend the rampier and the gates, retired the rest thicke and close together into the mids of the campe, and commaunded them to give care, and bee inten∣tive to the signal, when he would have them issue forth. Now was it the * 1.82 ninth hower of the day, when the Romane Consull having toiled and wearied his souldiours to no purpose, and seeing no hope to win the campe, sounded the retreat. Which so soone as Anniball heard, and saw the [unspec C] fight withall to slake and waxe cold, and the enemie retired backe from the campe, presently sal∣lied forth himselfe with the whole strength of his Infanterie, for hee had sent out his horsemen both on the right hand and the left after the enemies. There had not beene lightly a more fierce and cruell battaile strucken, and more memorable, for the finall mischeefe of both parts, if the day would have given them time to have fought longer. But the night parted the medley, which was hotely begun with exceeding stomacke and courage. Whereupon, the confronting and charging one of another, was more eager, than the slaughter bloudie betweene them; and as the fight in manner was egall, so they parted with losse alike. For of each side there died above sixe hundred footmen, and halfe as many horsemen. But the losse on the Romans side was grea∣ter than in proportion of the number, because certaine of the degree and calling of knights, and [unspec D] five Colonels, and three Captaines of the Allies, were slaine.

After this iourney, Anniball went into the countrey of the Ligurians, and Sempronius to Luca. To welcome Anniball at his first comming into Liguria, there were delivered unto him two Romane Questors or Treasurers, Cn. Fulvius, and L. Lucretius, who were intercepted by the Ligurians, and taken in a traine of ambush, with two Colonels, and five others besides, whose fa∣thers by calling were as good as Senators fellowes: and this was done, because he should assure himselfe the better, that the peace and amitie contracted with them, would be faithfully kept and observed.

Whiles these things thus passed in Italie, Cn. Scipio who was sent into Spaine with a fleete & ar∣mie for sea & land; having set saile from the mouth of Rhodanus, & compassed the mountaines [unspec E] Pyrenei, arrived at a place called Emporia: where he disbarked and landed his forces, and redu∣ced unto the Romane empire all the countrey, beginning at the Laceranes, and so from thence all the sea coast as farre as to the river Iberus, partly by renewing the ancient leagues, and partly by devising meanes to contract new. Whereupon, there rose a great name of him for his cle∣mencie; whereby he prevailed not only with the States by the sea side, but also amongst the inlan∣ders and mounteiners, even to the nations that were more fierce and savage: with whom he not onely made peace, but also wrought them so, that they tooke armes in his quarell; and there were levied from among them, certaine strong cohorts and bands for to aid and succour him. Hanno, whom Anniball had left for defense of that province, was not ignorant hereof: and therefore, be∣fore all was gone, and the countrey alienated, he thought good to meete with this mischiefe: and [unspec F] having pitched his campe in sight of the enemies, set his men in ordinance of battaile. The Ro∣mane captaine likewise resolved not to deferre the fight; knowing that so, he might be forced to encounter both with Hanno and Asdruball, and rather yet he desired to deale with them one af∣ter the other single, than at once with both. But this battaile was not so much dangerous. Sixe thousand enemies were left behinde slaine, and two thousand taken prisoners, together with

those that were left for the gard of the camp. For both the camp was forced & woon, and also the [unspec G] General himself with certain guards was taken prisoner. Moreover Stissum, a towne neere unto the camp, was woon by assault: howbeit, the spoile & pillage of the towne were matters of small worth and value, namely, the houshold stuffe, and such pelfe and trumpery of barbarous people, and certaine poore base slaves. It was the camp that enriched the souldiers: by reason that not onely the armie which was now vanquished, but that also which with Anniball served in Italie, had left behind them about Pyreneus, all good things to speake of, that they set store by, be∣cause they would go lightly, and not be encombred with cariages. Before any certaine report of this overthrow came to Asdruball, he had passed over Iberus with 8000 footemen, and 1000 horsemen, as purposing, to make head against the Romanes at their first comming: but when he heard how the field was lost, and the camp withall, he turned his iourney to the sea. And not farre [unspec H] from * 1.83 Tarracon, he found the souldiers of the Armado, and the mariners besides, wandering and straggling over the fields (for usuall it is, that happie successe should breede carelesse negli∣gence) whereupon he sent out his horsemen every way, and with great slaughter and flight he chased them to their ships: and not adventuring to make any longer stay thereabout, for feare to be surprised by Scipio, he retyred back to the other side of Iberus. Scipio also upon the first report of these new enemies, having rallied his forces together in great hast, after he had slightly chastifed a few captaines, and left behinde him a small garrison at Tarracon, retur∣ned with his fleete to Emporiae. He had no sooner departed from thence, but Asdruball was there in his place; and having induced and incited the State of the Ilergetes (who had given ho∣stages to Scipio) for to revolt and rebell, even with their owne youth wasted the territories of all [unspec I] those that continued faithfull confederates to the Romanes. Afterwards, when Scipio was roused once out of the place where he wintered, the enemie retyred againe, and quit all the countrey on that side Iberus. Then Scipio having in hostile manner invaded the countries, abandoned & left by him that was the author & cause of their rebellion, and by that meanes the nation likewise of the Ilergetes, after he had driven them all within Athanagia, which is their capitall towne, he layd siege unto it round about, and within few dayes brought the whole seignorie of the Ilerge∣tes under his obedience: and besides a greater number of hostages than before (which they were constreined to deliver) he condemned them in a good round summe of money. From thence he went forward against the Auseranes, neere to Iberus, being associates also to the Carthaginians: & having beleaguered their citie, he forlaied & intercepted the Lacetanes as they came by night to succour their neighbours, not farre from the towne, even as they were at the point to enter in. [unspec K] There were slaine of them 12000, and the rest being welneere all disarmed, fled every way scat∣tering here and there over the fields home to their houses. All the help and defense that they had who were within, was only the foule and cold winter weather, evermore naught and hurtfull to assailants that lye forth. The siege lasted thirtie dayes, during which time, seldome fell the snow lesse than foure foote deepe, and so covered the pentises and mantilets of the Romanes, that when the enemies flung fire sundrie times thereupon, that alone saved the same, and no∣thing else. In the end, upon the departure of their Prince Amursitus, who was fled to Asdruball, they yelded, upon condition to pay * 1.84 twentie talents of silver, & so Scipio returned to Tarracon, there to winter.

[unspec L]

But that yeare, at Rome and about the citie, were many strange and prodigious signes seene, or at leastwise (a thing usuall when mens minds are once touched with religion, and given to make scruple) many were reported, and soone beleeved. Among which, this was one; that a babe of condition free borne, and but halfe yeere old, cryed with a loud voice in the hearbe market lö Triumphe. Also in the beasts market, an Oxe of himselfe undriven, climbed up to the third lost or storie of an house, and from thence being frighted with the stirre and noyse of the dwellers by, cast himselfe downe. Moreover, there was seene in the welkin or element, the resemblance of a navie of ships: and the temple of Lady * 1.85 Spes, standing in the hearbe market, was smitten with lightning. Likewise at Lanuvium the speare of Iuno shooke and brandished of it selfe: and a Raven flew into Iunoes church, and lighted upon the very Shrine or Alter of Iuno. In the territo∣rie [unspec M] of * 1.86 Amiternum, in many places were seene men as it were in white garments, but only a farre off; for as folke went neerer and neerer, they appeared not, and could not be met withall. In Pice∣num it rained stones: and at Cere the lots were found diminished; and in Gaule, a VVolfe drew forth a watchman his sword out of his scaberd, and caryed it away. For other prodigious tokens,

[unspec A] order was given to the Decemvirs to peruse the books of Sibylla. But for the raining of stones in Picenum, there was ordeined a Novendial feast for nine dayes: and for the expiation of the o∣ther prodigies, the whole citie in manner was occupied in their devotions. And now above all other things the citie was solemnly purged, and greater beasts killed in sacrifice in the honor of those gods, for whom they were ordeined, and a present of gold weighing * 1.87 40 pound, was caried unto Iuno at Lanuvium. And the dames and matrons of Rome erected a molten image of brasse for Iuno in Aventinum: & at Caere where the lots were diminished, was appointed a Lectisterne, and a procession or supplication to Fortune in Algidum. At Rome also there was a Lectisterne solemnified to Iuventa [the goddesse of youth] and a solemne procession at the church of Hercules. Moreover, expresse commaundement was given to all the people, to make procession [unspec B] and supplication at every altar and Shrine of their gods. And to god Genius, they sacrificed five greater beasts. And C. Attilius Serranus the Pretor, was commaunded to pronounce a so∣lemne vow, in case the Commonweale continued in the same good estate, ten yeares, and decayed not. These portentuous prodigies thus expiated, and vowes made according to Si∣byls bookes, eased mens hearts mightily of their religious feare. Then one of the elect Con∣suls, to wit, Flaminius, to whome were allotted those Legions which wintered at Placentia, sent an Edict with letters to the Consull, that the armie should bee in campe at Ariminum, upon the * 1.88 Ides of March. His purpose was, to enter into his Consulship in the province, re∣membring the old contentions and debates which hee had with the Nobles, first when hee was a Tribune of the Com. and afterwards when he was Cos. as wel about the Consulship (of which, [unspec C] they would have deprived him) as also, about the triumph, which they denied him. Hated he was besides of the Senate, for the new Act or Law, which Q. Claudius (a Tribune of the Commons) had made, so prejudiciall to the Senate; and onely C. Flaminius, of all the Nobles, supported it and set it forward: namely, That no Senator, or father of a Senator, should have a ship at sea, bea∣ring above * 1.89 300 Amphores: for that was thought sufficient to transport their commodities and fruits to Rome, rising out of their lands and livings. And as for all other gaine by trafficke, it was not beseeming a Nobleman and Senator. This matter having been debated with great con∣tention, caused the proposer of this law (Flaminius) to incur much evill will and displeasure with the Nobilitie, but it procured him the affection and love of the Commons, and in processe of time a second Consulship. Supposing therefore, that with iterating the Auspices, and putting [unspec D] him to take the presages anew by the flight of birds, and by finding other delaies, upon occa∣sion of the Latine holy daies, and one businesse or other belonging to the Consuls charge, they would detaine and keepe him backe still in the cittie; he set a countenance, as though hee would take a journey like a private person, and so departed secretly into the Province. Which thing, when it was once blazed abroad, made the Nobles who were afore maliciously bent against him, to be angrie anew; and they gave out, that it was not the Senate onely, that C. Flaminius warred against, but the immorrall gods also. For hee, who before time had been made Cos. without re∣gard of taking Auspices, and having the approbation of the birds, when he was reclaimed and called both by God and man out of the field, obeied not: and now, having a heavie conscience, surcharged with offences past, hath fled from the Capitoll and the solemne nuncupation & ma∣king [unspec E] of vowes, for that he would not upon the ordinarie day of entering his Magistracie, visite the Temple of Iup. Opt. Max. nor (because he was odious to the Senate, and they likewise hated of him alone) see them, and aske their advise and counsaile; nor proclaime the Latine holydayes, and celebrate to Iup. Latialis, the solemne yearely sacrifice upon the Alban hill: ne yet, after he had entred into the Capitoll by the luckie flight and token of birds, pronounce his vowes there, and depart from thence in his rich coate-armor toward the province. They sayd moreover, that he was slipt and stolne secretly away like a drudge that followeth the camp, without the ensignes and ornaments of authoritie, without Sergeants and officers, as if hee had bene banished, and so left his countrie, minding belike to enter his governement more for the honor and digni∣tie of Ariminum than of Rome, and to put upon him his purple robe of estate, embrodred with [unspec F] skarlet rather in an hostelrie, and common Inne, than in his owne house. They all every one opi∣ned and judged, that he should be recalled and brought back againe peremptorily, yea and be forced personally at home to performe all duties belonging to God and man, before that he went forth to the province and to the armie. About this embassage (for they thought meete to send embassadors) went Q. Terentius, and M. Antislius: but they prevailed no more than in his

former Consulship the letters missive had done, which were sent from the Senate. A few dayes [unspec G] after he entred his office, and as he was sacrificing, the calfe or yong bullock being alreadie stickt, got away from the hands of the sacrificers, & spotted many of the standers by with bloud: But they that stood farre off, not knowing what the matter was of that sturre, fled away, and ran too and fro: which of most men was judged a foretoken and presage of some great affright and trouble. After this, when he had received the two legions of Sempronius the Consull of the yeare before, and other two, of C. Attilius the Pretor, hee began to conduct his armie into Tus∣kane by the way of Apenninum.

Notes

• * 1.1

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.2

  The 〈…〉〈…〉 and res lut•••••• of a slave.
• * 1.3

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.4

  Armican the father of Anniball was the sonne of B••tha, from where arose the Barshine fatho•• so often named in this storie.
• * 1.5

  The speech of Hanno in the Scha•• of Car∣thage.
• * 1.6

  The naturall disposition of Annibal.
• * 1.7

  His vertues
• * 1.8

  His vertues.
• * 1.9

  Ordinarie in Carthaginians.
• a 1.10

  A people with∣in the kingdome of Teleroin Spaine, nerre the cittie O••asia.
• b 1.11

  Clusius suppo∣poseth is to be Cartagena: some take it for Conill others for Tarissa, or rather Algezi∣ra. The French translatour, cal∣leth it Altheia.
• c 1.12

  Cartagena.
• d 1.13

  Old Castella or Castile.
• e 1.14

  Salamanca in Castile.
• * 1.15

  People in An∣dalusia.
• g 1.16

  Inhabitants of the kingdome of Tolcium.
• h 1.17

  Ta••••
• * 1.18

  Algarbia, a people in Portu∣gali.
• * 1.19

  Morvedre.
• * 1.20

  Saguntum be∣suged by Anniball.
• * 1.21

  Zanto.
• * 1.22

  The description of a weap••n or d••rt, called ••a∣larica.
• * 1.23

  The Oration of Hanno in the Senate of Carthage.
• * 1.24

  Gotha, or ••a∣vagnana The same which Vir∣gil calleth A••ae, and the Italians in old time Saxa.
• * 1.25

  A citie in Sici∣lie, s••nan upon an high hill, of that name. T••a∣pani, or Monte S. Iulino at this day.
• * 1.26

  The inhabi∣tants of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.27

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 the realm of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.28

  The Oration of Alorcus a Spa∣niard, in the Se∣nate of Sagun∣tum.
• * 1.29

  The winning of Saguntum.
• * 1.30

  Cartagena.
• * 1.31

  Tesino.
• * 1.32

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.33

  The Ilanders of Sardegna.
• * 1.34

  The Ilanders of Corsica.
• * 1.35

  The people of Istria.
• * 1.36

  The people of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.37

  •• i. 200 to a Le∣gion.
• * 1.38

  The Oration of a Senatour in Carthage.
• * 1.39

  ••span.••
• * 1.40

  ••Marfe••••es.
• * 1.41

  The speech of Annibali to his Spanish soldiors.
• * 1.42

  Cadiz, or Cales Males, or Cale••••
• * 1.43

  Two islands•• Maiorica and Minorica. Of some, Colum∣bá and Nur••.
• * 1.44

  Within the kingdome of Tune••.
• * 1.45

  Inhabitants Bio led-il-gerid.
• * 1.46

  Hi••ona of M••∣quinensa.
• * 1.47

  The vision of Anniball.
• * 1.48

  The people of T••er.us.
• * 1.49

  Mera•••• in Ca∣talenia.
• * 1.50

  Guienne
• * 1.51

  Granada, or A••nar••••.
• * 1.52

  Rousi••ion.
• * 1.53

  The river To.
• * 1.54

  The ci••ie Plai∣sance.
• * 1.55

  Modena
• * 1.56

  Boutbnoise
• * 1.57

  Tanedo
• * 1.58

  Of Bris••••id.
• * 1.59

  Rhosne••
• * 1.60

  Avignen.
• * 1.61

  The river Sa••••ne.
• * 1.62

  The people of Sa••••ie according to Schudus. But Diulphinor. after Martianius, Rhenam••, and others.
• * 1.63

  Entrecacie:••ix in Provance, saith Vigenereus.
• * 1.64

  Val de viso, or the countrie of Belfort.
• * 1.65

  Those of Craux.
• * 1.66

  Durance.
• * 1.67

  Genes.
• * 1.68

  xi. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.d.sterl.
• * 1.69

  Tortugall.
• * 1.70

  Biscay, or as some thinke Ar∣ragon.
• * 1.71

  About 25 English mile••••ts appeareth before in this booke.
• * 1.72

  Liparae, one of the Ilands Aeoliae.
• * 1.73

  Vulcano, another of the same Ilands.
• * 1.74

  Messina.
• * 1.75

  Mansalla, a citie in Sicilie, and a cape there, called the Eye of Sicily.
• * 1.76

  Malta.
• * 1.77

  〈◊〉〈◊〉, or Vibona.
• * 1.78

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.79

  Sictertio.
• * 1.80

  Sictertio.
• * 1.81

  Pays de Main.
• * 1.82

  Three of the clock after noone.
• * 1.83

  Tarragona.
• * 1.84

  3750. pound sterling, according to the lesse Attick Talent.
• * 1.85

  The goddesse Hope.
• * 1.86

  Pescara.
• * 1.87

  1440 lib. Fierl.
• * 1.88

  15 day of March.
• * 1.89

  Of eight Tun and better.