The Roman historie containing such acts and occurrents as passed under Constantius, Iulianus, Iovianus, Valentinianus, and Valens, emperours. Digested into 18. bookes, the remains of 31. and written first in Latine by Ammianus Marcellinus: now translated newly into English. Wherunto is annexed the chronologie, serving in stead of a briefe supplement of those former 13. bookes, which by the iniurie of time are lost: together with compendious annotations and coniectures upon such hard places as occurre in the said historie. Done by Philemon Holland of the citie of Coventrie, Doctor in Physicke.

THE XXVIII. BOOKE.

CHAP. I. The most miserable state of Rome citie under Maximinus the Praefect, whose parentage and rising is described.

WHiles this perfidious and disloyall dealing causeth in Persia (as I have beforesaid) unexpected troubles on the kings be∣halfe, and warres revived in the East parts begin againe, six∣teene yeares and upward after the death of Nepotianus, Bello∣na provoked upon very small occasions to the working of wofull calamities, raged throughout Rome, and set all in combustion: which I would to God had beene for ever bu∣ried in silence, least happily there be attempted sometime the semblable, like to doe more harme by generall examples and precedents, than by delinquencies. And albeit from the exquisite narration of this bloudie hystorie, feare might justly pull me backe (many and sundrie causes duly considered) yet presuming confidently upon the modestie of this present age, I will summarily lay open every particular that is memorable. Neither will I be loath and thinke much briefely to shew, which of those accidents that have befallen unto ancient writers

it is, that I might feare. In the first warre of the Medes, when the Persians had spoyled Asia, besetting the cities herein with huge and puissant forces, yea, and threatening the defendants thereof with terrible torments and dolorous death, they brought the people, thus shut up and besieged, to this extremitie, that they all, sore afflicted with great and grievous calamities, after they had killed their owne deare wives and children, and throwne their mooveable goods into the fire, cast themselves also by heapes after them, striving a vie who might be for most in that commune flame, that consumed them and their countrey together. This argu∣ment soone after, Phrynicus digested and penned in a swelling tragicall style, and brought it upon the Stage in the Theatre of Athens: and having for a while good audience with contentment, when his high and loftie Tragoedie went on still, and wrung forth many a teare, the people supposing that he had insolently inser∣ted these grievous afflictions also of theirs among Stage-playes, not by way of consolation, but in reprochfull manner, to put them in mind of the miseries that their lovely citie and countrey (supported with no helpes of protectors and defen∣dors) had sustained, in heat of indignation condemned and confined him to Mile∣tus. For Miletus was a colonie of the Athenians, transported and planted among other Ionians by Nileus the sonne of that Codrus, who (by report) in the Dorique warre devoted himselfe to death for his countrey. But let us come to our purposed historie. Maximinus, governour of Rome in times past in place of vice-Praefect, was very obscurely borne at Sopianae, a towne of Valeria, and his father of no better calling than a clerke, belonging to the Presidents office, discended from the race of the Carpi, whom Diocletian removed from out of their auncient habitations, and brought over into Pannonia. This Maximinus after he had bestowed some meane studie in the liberall Sciences, and become a disnoble advocat and defendor of cau∣ses, when he had also governed Corsica and Sardinia likewise, ruled Thuscia. From whence being advaunced to the office and charge of Rome-cities ^a purvey∣or for corne and victuals, by reason that his successour stayed long in his journey, kept in his hands still the rule of that province also. And at the first he demeaned himselfe very circumspectly and wisely in three respects: first, for that the words were fresh and rife in his eares spoken by his father (who was passing skilfull in that which the flight of Augurall fowles or the singing of birds fore-signified) implying thus much, That he should mount to high regiments, but die in the end by the exe∣cutioners hands. Secondly, because having gotten a man of Sardinia, whom him∣selfe afterwards by deceitfull trecherie and craftie guile murthered (as commonly the rumor ran) one who was very cunning in raising hurtfull spirits, and solliciting the presages of such ghosts and spectres, fearing least so long as he remained alive, he should be detected, he was more gentle and tractable. Lastly, because creeping as he did a long time below, like a serpent lying under the ground, he could not as yet raise any great matters of bloudie and capitall consequence.

CHAP. II. The beginning of Maximinus his crueltie. His Patron, and his complices. Without any words of vulgar persons, mention is made of the punishments infli∣cted upon Marinus, Cethegus, and Alypius.

NOw the very beginning, from whence he displayed and spred himselfe abroad, arose upon such an occasion as this: Chilo late a deputie Prae∣fect, and his wife named Maxima, having complained unto Olybrius, Praefect of the citie for that time being, and avouching that their lives were assayled and endangered by poysons, obtained at his hands a commission, That the parties whom they suspected should forthwith be apprehended and clapt up fast in prison, to wit, Sericus an Organist, or maker of instruments, Asbolius a pro∣fessor of wrestling, and Campensis a ^b Soothsayer. But whiles this businesse waxed coole, by reason that Olybrius was visited with long and grievous sicknesse, those a∣foresaid, who had given information of these things, beeing impatient of delayes, preferred a petition, and craved, That the matter in controversie might be made o∣ver unto the Praefect of the victuals aforesaid, for to bee examined accordingly. Which for expedition sake was soone graunted. Maximinus therefore having re∣ceived matter to worke mischiefe upon, discharged and uttered his inbred rigour, that stucke close unto his cruell heart: as oftentimes doe these savage beasts, exhi∣bited in the Amphitheatres or Shew-places, when by breaking their backe grates and dores in pieces, they get at length to be at libertie. And when this matter was many times handled and discussed, in flourishes (as it were) and shewes, so that some having their sides gashed and torne, nominated certaine noble persons, as if they had used workers of mischiefe by the meanes of their dependants, and other base fellowes, this divellish Inquisitor noting as well the parties accused as the in∣formers, and tracing them (as they say) by the foot, roved further, and in a malici∣ous relation advertised the prince, That the wleked and leawd acts which many committed in Rome, could not possibly be either searched out or punished, but by more sharpe and quicke justice. Who upon the knowledge hereof being en∣raged (as he was an enemie to vices, rather rigorous than severe) by vertue of one precept or warrant directed for such causes, which hee mingled with an arrogant intention of treason, decreed, That all those, whom the justice of auncient lawes, and the judgement of sacred princes had exempted from bloudie inquisitions, should, if the case so required, be put to cruell examinations by torture. And to the end that a duple authority, and the same strained to the height, might patch matters together, to the utter undoing of persons in higher place, unto this Maximinus (ap∣pointed to rule at Rome as deputie Pręfect) he joined in commission for the know∣ing and determining of these things (which were a framing to the danger of many) Leo, a Notarie afterwards, master of the Offices, a very swash-buckler at every fu∣nerall, a knowne robber, and a Pannonian; one who breathed foorth of his savage mouth crueltie, and yet was neverthelesse greedie still of mans bloud. Now the naturall disposition of Maximinus bent to doe mischiefe, was much augmented by the comming to him of a like companion, as also by sweet letters [from the Empe∣rour] together with an honourable dignitie. And therefore flinging out his feet to and fro for joy as he went, he seemed to leape and daunce rather than to goe, whiles he affected to imitate the Bracmans, who (as some report) keepe a sta••king

and stately jetting among the altars. And now by this time, when the trumpets of domesticall miseries sounded, and all men were amazed to see the horrible state of the world how it went, beside many cruell and unmercifull examples (the varietie and number whereof is incomprehensible) most notable was the death of Mari∣nus an advocate, whom upon a slight and cursarie weighing of proofes and pre∣sumptions, he condemned to death, for daring by indirect and wicked acts to seeke the mariage of one Hispanilla. And because I suppose that some men who haply shall read these reports, will be readie to search exquisitly into particulars, and re∣proove me, keeping a stirre and saying, This was done first, and not that; or such things are overslipt which themselves saw: thus farre forth we are to give satisfacti∣on unto them, namely, That all things are not worthy to be put downe in writing, which passed among meane and base persons: neither, if that should have beene needfull, had we sufficient instruction from the verie records, considering how ma∣ny publique miseries and misfortunes were so rife and hot, and that this new furie uncurbed and unrestrained, made a generall pudder and confusion, whiles it was evidently knowne, there was not (a thing much feared) any lawfull proceeding to judgement, but a cessation of all law and justice. Then it was, that Cethegus a Se∣natour, accused for committing adulterie, had his head chopt off; and Alypius a noble young gentleman, for a small errour was sent away and confined; yea and other meane persons were executed and died a publick death: in whose calamities everie man seeing, as it were, the image of his owne perill, dreamed of nothing but tormentors, chaines, bonds, and lodging in balefull darknesse.

CHAP. III. The narration of Hymetius his case. The crueltie of Maximinus repressed for a time, is more hotly enkindled against Lollianus, Clarita, Flaviana, Pafi∣us, Cornelius, Sericus, Asbolius, Campensis, and Aginatius.

AT the same time was the businesse also in hand of Hymetius, a man of excellent towardnesse and expectation: the order whereof wee know was carried in this wise. When he governed Affricke as Proconsull, he allowed corne unto the Carthaginians (much distressed now for want of food) out of the garners appointed for the people and State of Rome: and within a while after when the earth had yeelded plentifull store of graine, he made full restitution thereof without any delay. But for as much as when hee sold unto them that wanted, ten modij after the rate of one ^c solidus, and himself had bought thirtie at the same price, the whole gaine and advantage accrewing thereby, he sent into the Princes Treasurie. And therefore Valentinian supposing that by such re∣turne of buying and selling there had beene sent lesse than there ought to have bin, fined him with losse of a good part of his substance. And to make his miserie the more, there fell out this occurrent also at the same time, no lesse pernitious to him than the other. Amantius, a famous Soothsayer above the rest in those dayes, be∣ing by secret information discovered and made knowne, that for the performance and complement of some small matters, he was sent for by the same Hymetius to sa∣crifice, and hereupon judicially convented, albeit hee stood stooping in manner double under the racke, stiffely and constantly denyed the same: Who whiles he

still made denyall, in certaine privat and secret papers produced from his house, there was found a Memorandum written with Hymetius his owne hand, reque∣sting him out of his art and learning, by the rites and ceremonies of some solemne sacrifices, to pray unto the divine power of the Emperour, and to procure the fa∣vour of his sacred Majestie toward him: in the utmost part of which writing there was read a certaine invective against the said Emperour, as being a covetous and cruell Prince. Valentinian advertised hereof, by relation of some informers, who made construction of all things that were done in the worst sense, commaunded there should be inquisition made into this businesse in most rigorous maner. And for that Frontinus a practiser with Amantius abovesaid, was charged to have beene the minister of that forme of prayer which was made, when he had been well tew∣ed with rods, and compelled to confesse, he was banished into Britaine: but Aman∣tius condemned afterwards for capitall matters suffered death. After these affairs in this order passed, Hymetius being brought to the towne O criculum, to have his cause heard, by Ampelius Prefect of the citie, and Maximinus vice Prefect, and like (as it seemed) presently to be put away, when he had libertie graunted to speake, tooke the better course, and appealed for succour to the Emperour, and so prote∣cted under the safeguard of his name, was kept in ward safe. And the Princes plea∣sure being asked, What should be done with him? hee committed the managing of this cause unto the Senat. Who finding by the equall ballance of justice how the case stood, and thereupon confining him to Boae, a place in Dalmatia, could hardly endure the Emperours wrath, who chafed mightily when hee understood, that a man destined (as himselfe intended) to death, had his punishment by a mil∣der sentence. For these and many such like examples, the daungers seene in a few, men begun to feare would light upon them. And least, if so many enormities be∣ing winked at, and creeping on still by little and little, there might grow whole heapes of miseries, by vertue of a decree passed by the Nobilitie, embassadors were dispatched unto the Emperour, by name Pretextatus who had beene Prefect of the citie, Venustus sometime deputie-Prefect, and Minervius late a Consular Governor of a Province, with this supplication, That there should not bee inflicted punish∣ment more grievous than the offences required; and that no Senatour (after an un∣exampled and unlawfull manner) might be exposed unto tortures. Who being admitted into the Consistorie, when they made report of these particulars afore∣said; as Valentinian denied that ever he ordained such a course, and cryed out, that he was traduced and sustained abuse, Eupraxius the Questor in modest tearmes re∣proved him for it. By whose libertie of speech, that cruell proceeding thus begun, which exceeded all precedents of rigour, was reformed. About this time Lollianus a young gentleman, in the verie prime of his youth, the sonne of Lampadius, who had beene Prefect, being by Maximinus, who looked narrowly into his cause, con∣victed to have copied forth a booke of divelish arts (when by reason of yong yeres his head was not well stayed) and upon the point to be sent into exile (as it was fea∣red) at the motion and instigation of his father appealed to the Emperour. And be∣ing commaunded to be led from thence unto his Counsell, which was (as they say) out of the smoke in the flame, was delivered over to Phalangius the governour of the province Baetica, and lost his life by the hangmans hand. Over and besides these, Taratius Bassus, afterwards Prefect of the citie, and his brother Camenius, like∣wise one Marcianus and Eusaphius, all noble persons, and of Senators degree, were brought into question, and had their triall: for that as privie all to one and the same

practise of sorcerie, they were named to favour and make much of Auchenius the Chariotier: but for that the evidences and proofes were as then but doubtfull, they went away quit, by the meanes and helpe of Victorinus (as the running rumour went) who was a most inward friend to Maximinus. Neither esca∣ped women free, but had their part also no lesse in the like calamities. For, even of this verie sex were many of high birth put to death, as guiltie of the foule crimes ei∣ther of adulterie or whoredome: among whom Claritas and Flaviana were of greatest name; of which the one being led to execution, they stripped so neere out of all her apparell wherewith she was clad, that shee was not permitted to keepe a∣bout her, so much as would suffice to cover her secret parts: And therefore the ex∣ecutioner convicted to have committed a most lewd and shamefull fact, was burnt quicke. Moreover Pafius and Cornelius Senators both, convinced to have polluted themselves with the damnable sleights of poisoning and sorcerie, were by the defi∣nitive sentence of the same Maximinus put to death. In like sort also the ^d Procura∣tor of the Mint lost his life. For, Sericus and Asbolius afore named, because in ex∣horting them to appeach and name in any place whom they thought good, hee promised faithfully with an othe, That he would commaund none of them to bee punished either by fire or sword, he caused to be killed with the mightie pelts of ^e plumbets: And after this he awarded Campensis the Soothsayer to the flaming fire, for that in his affaire he was not tyed to any such othe. And now convenient it is, as I suppose, to declare the cause that drave headlong upon his owne death and destruction Aginatius, a man of noble auncestors descended, according as it hath beene constantly reported: For, as touching this matter, there be no evident re∣cords extant. Maximinus, whiles he was yet Prefect of the corne and victuals, puf∣fing and brawling still in a proud spirit of his owne, and having gotten no meane instigations and incouragement of boldnesse, proceeded so farre as to the con∣tempt of Probus, in the ranke of right honourable persons the greatest of all other, and, by vertue of the Prefecture of the Pretorium, a governor of provinces. Which, Aginatius taking to be a mightie indignitie, & setting it also to his heart, that in exa∣mining of causes Olybrius had preferred Maximinus before him, considering him∣selfe had been deputie-Prefect of Rome, secretly in familiar talke shewed unto Pro∣bus, That the vaine man spurning as he did against persons of high desert might be overthrowne and brought to confusion, if he thought so good. These letters, as some affirmed, Probus sent (making no bodie privie therto but the bearer) unto Ma∣ximinus as standing in great feare of him, growne now more cunning and expert in doing mischiefe, and besides in grace and reputation with the Emperour. Which when he had read, the man fell into such a heat of rage, that from thenceforth hee bent all his engines, and levelled his bolts at Aginatius, like to some serpent woun∣ded and squized by a knowne person. Beside this, there was another greater cause of practising the overthrow of Aginatius, the which brought him to utter destru∣ction. For he accused Victorinus, now dead, That whiles he lived hee had sold the friendship of Maximinus, and gained by his proceedings: by whose last will and testament himselfe had received no small legacies. And in like malapert saucinesse he threatened his wife Anepsia, to go to law and by litigious suits to molest her: Who fearing these troubles, to the end she might be protected also by the aid of Maximinus, feined and devised, That her husband in his wil which he lately made, left unto him a legacie of three thousand pound weight in silver: Who burning in excessive desire and covetousnesse (for he was not without this vice also) claimed

the one moitie of the inheritance. But not resting contented herewith, as being but a small portion, and nothing sufficient, he devised another feat, which, as hee thought, was both honest and safe: and because he would not forgo his hold of so good meanes offered unto him to gaine a wealthie patrimonie, he sued to have the daughter in law of Victorinus (whom his wife Anepsia bare unto a former hus∣band) for to be his sonnes wife: the which with the assent of the woman was soon obtained and concluded.

CHAP. IIII. The detestable sleights and practises of Maximinus, that he might continue still in that butcherly execution of his, now being created Prefectus Pretorio. Di∣vers successors after him in the Prefectship of the citie; the last of whom exceedeth the crueltie of Maximinus.

BY these and other prankes with like sorrow to be lamented, which greatly blemished and stained the beautie of Rome, that im∣mortall citie, this man not to be named but with a grone, made outragious spoyle by the manifold overthrows of mens estates, stretching and straining his power beyond the bounds of law and justice. For, by report, he both had a small cord alwayes hanging at a certain remote window of the Pretorium, the one end wherof shold tye or binde together a certaine Tamusa (as it were) not grounded verily upon a∣ny proofes or presumptions, but like to doe mischiefe unto many guiltlesse per∣sons: And also commaunded sundrie times Mutianus and Barbatus, his daily offi∣cers and ministers, fellowes most apt and fit to deceive others, severally to bee clapt up. These, as if they bewayled their owne wofull mishaps, whereby they made semblance that they were wronged and oppressed, aggravating still the crueltie of the said judge, and iterating the same speeches verie often, pretended and affirmed, That for persons standing then accused and in trouble, there was now no other meanes or remedie remaining to save their owne lives, unlesse they would seeme to charge and accuse some of the nobilitie of great crimes, who if they were once joy∣ned with them in societie of daunger, then they warranted them they might be ea∣sily quit and absolved. By reason whereof, considering that the vile impietie of these courses proceeded further now than to abjects neere at hand, it came to passe that many a man had his hands streight manacled; and those of noble birth were seene as unregarded, in poore plight and much distressed. Neither ought any of them to be blamed, when in their simple salutations they crouched and bowed their bodies so low, as that they welneere touched the verie ground, considering they heard this robber with the pestiferous breath of his mouth come out often∣times with this note, If he were so disposed, that no person could possibly be found innocent. Which words turning quickly into deeds, had beene ynough, I assure you, to have terrified as good men as ever Numa Pompilius or Cato were. For in this wise altogether were matters carried, that some mens eies were never drie, but shed fresh teares in the beholding of other folks miseries, a thing that commonly in this life happeneth to men, upon sundrie troubles and crosse accidents of their owne. Howbeit this hard hearted judge how ever he went oftentimes from the course of right and justice, yet in one speciall point tollerable he was. For, otherwhiles hee would spare and pardon some if he were requested and intreated: which, as we

read in Tullie, savoureth yet of some vice in this place of authoritie. For if wrath (quoth he) be implacable, it is rigour and bitternesse in the highest degree; but if it be exorable, it is as great a lightnesse and vanitie: which notwithstanding, as in choice of bad things, is to be preferred before bitternesse. After this, when Leo went forward, and was admitted his successor, Maximinus being sent for to the princes court, and advaunced to be Praetor Praetorio, became never a jot milder, but did harme still even a farre off, like to the serpents called Basiliskes or Cocatrices. Against that time, or not much before, the very beesomes wherewith the noblemens * Curia used to be swept, were seene to bloome and beare blossomes: and this portended, that some persons of most contemptible and base condition, were to be raised un∣to high degrees of rule and authoritie. And although it be now high time to re∣turne unto the order of our Historie begun, yet without hindering the processe of times, we will tarrie a while in rehearsing some few particulars, that through the iniquitie of those, who governed as deputie Pręfects in the citie, were done other∣wise than ought to have beene; which were carried all according to the will and pleasure of Maximinus, by the same ministers, as his agents or apparitors. After him commeth Vrsicinus in place; a man more enclined to milder courses: who because he would be warie and civile, gave information, and referred over to the Emperour Esaias, with others kept in hold, for committing adulterie with Ruffina; and who had gone about to accuse and indict her husband Marcellus, late a Pursivant or In∣telligencer, of Treason: And therefore he, despised as a lingering delayer, and no∣thing meet for the stout execution and quicke dispatch of these matters, was put out of his deputicship. After him succeeded Simplicius Hemonensis; who of a professor in Grammar became counsellor unto Maximinus after the administration of his deputieship: a man neither stout nor prowd, but of a crooked and terrible aspect; who, seeming to frame his words to a kind of modestie, studied and plot∣ted the mischiefe of many. And first he put to death Ruffina, together with all those that were either parties culpable in the matter of adulterie, or privie thereto: as touching whom, Vrsicinus (as I said before) had given information: Then, ma∣ny others, without any difference of guiltie or innocent. For in this bloudie bat∣tail, contending with Maximinus (marshalled as it were in the maine battaile before him) he endevoured to outgoe him in cutting the sinewes (as one would say) of noble families: imitating ^g Busiris in old time, as also Antaeus and Phalaris; so as there seemed nought wanting but that Bull of Agrigentum.

CHAP. V. The horrible death of Hesychia a Matron. The tragicall historie of Fausiana, the blou∣die Catastrophe whereof is acted by Aginatius and Anepsia, married folke, put to death at the commaundement of Maximinus. The iust iudgement of the almightie powers in punishing Maximinus and other bloudie butchers.

THese and such like matters in this manner passed, a certaine matrone na∣med Hesychia, fearing very much some hard dealing and cruell torture for the crime wherewith she stood charged, in the house of an appari∣tor or sergeant, unto whom she was committed to ward, cast her face groveling upon a featherbed, and so stopping the breath of her nosthrils, ended her

life. And here take with you another mischiefe as cruell as the rest. For Eumenius and Abienus both, of a most honorable ranke, having beene slandered, under Maxi∣minus, with Fausiana, a worshipfull gentlewomen, after the death of Victorinus, by whose helpe they lived in more securitie, skared now with the comming of Simpli∣cius, a man no lesse minded to doe great matters, and that with menaces, betooke themselves to live close and secret. But after that Fausiana was condemned, their indictments being taken, and themselves peremptorily called to their answeres by vertue of edicts, hid themselves farther out of the way: and as for Abienus, hee shrowded himselfe privily a long time in Anepsiaes house. But, as usually it falleth out, that when folke are once going downe, some crosse accidents or other unloo∣ked for will be sure to attend upon them, to aggravate their calamities, a servant of Anepsia, named Apaudulus, taking it very grievously, that his wife had borne some stripes in the house, went forth by night, and gave notice of all unto Simplicius: So there were officers sent, who upon the said discoverie made, had them away out of their lurking place; and Abienus verily, upon the crime of adulterie strongly enfor∣ced against him, which he was said to have committed upon the bodie of Anepsia, suffered death: but the woman, to the end that by deferring her punishment, she might have assured hope to save her life, avouched, That being by cursed and wic∣ked arts assayled, she suffered that dishonour and violence in Aginatius his house. These things as they happened, Simplicius rung out againe into the Emperours eares; and Maximinus, who abode there, upon a malitious mind that he bare against Aginatius alreadie for the cause above specified, now that his privie grudge was to∣gether with his power and authoritie more incensed, made an exceeding earnest suit, that there might be a letter sent backe againe, for to have him executed. And verily this braine-sicke incitor, and mightie withall, soone obtained so much: but fearing the heavie load of envie and hatred, in case a man of noble birth should come to his death by sentence of judgement, that Simplicius, both his owne counsellor and friend also, pronounced, kept with himselfe for a while the Emperours precept; being at a stay, and doubting whom he might find out espe∣cially to be a trustie and sure executor of this horrible designe. And at the last (as commonly like will easily sort with like) he lighted upon one Doryphoria∣nus, a Gaule, and a bold franticke person; on whom, for promising shortly to accomplish this service, he tooke order, that a deputieship should be conferred, and to him he delivered the precept, together with the Emperours letters, instru∣cting the man, cruell though he was, yet unexpert and unskilfull, with what ex∣pedition he might without all let or impeachment dispatch Aginatius, who perad∣venture, upon finding out any meanes of delay, would escape and be gone. Do∣ryphorianus sped himselfe in all hast, and tooke long journeyes till hee came to Rome: and at his first comming, before all complements of salutation ended, he cast about, and with great diligence sought, by what forcible device, with the helpe of some others, he might take away the life of a Senatour, so nobly dis∣cended: and having intelligence, that but a while before he had beene found in a farme-house or mannour of his owne, himselfe with a sterne countenance determined to have the judiciall hearing of Anepsia, as the chiefe of all the of∣fendors; and that during the ugly darke night, what time folkes minds, posses∣sed with horror and terror, use to be dull and dead, as among an infinite num∣ber of examples, ^h Aiax also in Homer sheweth, wishing to dye by day-light, rather than to abide the terrors of the nightly feare. And for that this Iudge,

or rather a wicked Brigand, intending onely that which he promised, made every thing greater than it was, when he had commaunded Aginatius to be brought be∣fore him judicially, he caused a number of hangmen and tormentors to enter in place, and whiles the chaynes made an hideous noyse with their jingling, he tor∣tured to the very point of death the poore slaves, pined with foule usage and evill keeping a long time, to endanger by some evidence their lord and masters life: a thing that most mild and mercifull lawes have forbidden to be done in the que∣stion and matter of fornication. In the end, when some torments were so grie∣vously inflicted, that they had expressed from a sillie maid servant, now readie to dye, certaine ambiguous or suspicious words, no sooner was the evidence by her given, fully discussed and sifted, but without any more adoe definitive sen∣tence was pronounced, That Aginatius should be led to execution. And thus without any audience given him (notwithstanding with a lowd voice he called upon the names of Princes and Emperours) hoisted he was away on high, and put to death: and by the like sentence Anepsia was also executed. As Maximinus himselfe played these prankes both in his owne person whiles he was present, and also by his pragmaticall and busie agents, when he was farre off, Rome citie bewai∣led the death of many. But the Furies made hast to revenge those that were thus slaine. For (as it shall hereafter be shewed in due season) not only the same Maximinus, bearing himselfe intollerably prowd under Gratianus, was condem∣ned and suffered death, but Simplicius also was killed and cut in pieces in Illyri∣cum; yea, and Doryphorianus, pronounced guiltie of death, and thrust into the deepe dungeon ⁱ Tullianum, the prince by his mothers counsell fetched foorth from thence; and when he was returned to his owne home in Gaule, with dolo∣rous torments made an end of him. But now returne we from whence we tur∣ned hither. Thus stood the state (as I may so say) of the citie affaires.

CHAP. VI. Valentinian goeth about to bridle the rodes and invasions of the Alemans: and they having sued for peace, but not obtained it, set upon the Romanes at un∣awares, and kill two of their martiall leaders.

BVt Valentinian conceiving great matters in his mind, and those of be∣hoofefull consequence, fortified the Rhene all along, from the begin∣ning of Rhaetia, unto the narrow sea or Frith of the Ocean, with migh∣tie pyles and bankes; raysing up castles, skonces, forts and turrets of a great height, one by another raunged along in meet and convenient places along the coast of Gaule, as farre as it reacheth in length, yea, and otherwhiles with hou∣ses and buildings planted beyond the rivers, encroaching somewhat upon the li∣mits of the Barbarians, and winning ground. Finally, when he cast with himselfe and considered, how that high built and strong fenced fortresse, which himselfe at his first entrance had founded out of the very ground, by reason that the river na∣med Nicer running hard by, might by little and little with the violent beating of the waves be undermined and subverted, he devised to turne the streame another way: and having sought out and gotten together cunning workemen, skilfull in water-workes, and a number beside of stout souldiors, hee entred upon this hard piece of worke: For certaine maine pieces of timber, and those of Oake, for many

dayes together were framed and couched close, and the same cast into the chanell; notwithstanding huge posts forcibly pitched down hard by, and eftsoones pitched againe, at the rising of the mightie billowes were shuffled and huddled together, yea, and plucked up with the violence of the streame, and broken in sunder. Yet for all this, the great and earnest care of the Emperour, together with the painefull labour of the dutifull souldiors (who oftentimes when they were at worke stood up to the chin plunged in water) overcame all difficulties. And so at the last, not without danger of some, the garrison forts were rid quite frō the trouble wrought by the mightie wandering river, and now stand strong and sure. Being glad there∣fore, and rejoycing at so good speed, and gathering those together, who according to the time and season of the yeare were slipped sundrie wayes, he had a care of the Common-wealth, as beseemed the dutie of a prince. And supposing this to be most fit and meet for the effecting of that which he intended, he purposed in all hast to build a fort on the farther side of Rhene, upon the mountain Pirus (which place is within the Barbarians ground) and to the end that quicke dispatch might worke withall a sure effect of this businesse, he advertised Arator the lord marcher, by Syagrius then Notarie, afterwards Praefect and Consull, that whiles all was still and silent on every side, he should endevour to take the vantage thereof. So the Marcher, together with the said Notarie, went straightwayes over the water, as he was commaunded: and having begun by the helpe of the souldiors whom he led, to lay the foundation, received Hermogenes to be his successour. And at the very same instant certaine nobles and lords of the Alemanes, the Emperours hostages, came; those I meane, whom according to covenant, and as sufficient pledges of peace long to continue, we had in keeping: who humbly upon their knees be∣sought, That the Romanes (whose loyaltie and faith at all times had extolled up to heaven their fortune) without forecast of future securitie would not be deceived with a false error, nor by treading their covenants underfoot, enter upon an unwor∣thie action. But delivering, as they did, these and such like speeches in vaine, when they could neither have hearing, nor perceive any mild answere returned, lamen∣ting the destruction of their children and posteritie, departed. And no sooner were they gone, but out of a secret nouke of an hill hard by, there leapt forth a companie of the Barbarians, waiting, as we were given to understand, what answeres should be given unto those nobles aforesaid; and setting upon our souldiors, halfe naked, and even then busie in carrying of mould, with their swords, lightly and nimbly ap∣pointed as they were, slew them downe-right; among whom were also both the leaders slaine: neither was there one left to tell newes of what was done but onely Syagrius; who, after all the rest were put to the sword, returned to the court, and by sentence of the prince in his anger, cassed and discharged of his militarie oath and service, went home to his own house, judged by rigorous censure to have deserved no lesse, for that he escaped alone.

CHAP. VII. Gaule is infested by robbers, and Constantianus Tribune of the stable slaine. The Maratocupreni, other brigands, play their theevish parts in Syria. The Saxons likewise in Britanie are repressed by Theodosius, who is created Generall of the horsemen.

IN this meane while, a rabble of outragious and cruell robbers swarmed all over Gaule, to the mischiefe and utter undoing of many; besetting the frequented high wayes, and failing not to lay along and spoyle what fruits of the earth soever came in their way. To be short, besides a number of others, who lost their lives by such wait-layers, Canstantianus, Tribune of the stable, and neere kinsman to Valentinian, a brother also to Cerealis and Iustina, was by a privie rode intercepted, and soone after killed. But a farre off, as if the fu∣ries of hell haunted the like theeves and pricked them forward; the Maratocupre∣ni, most fierce brigands, the inhabitants of a towne carrying that name in Syria, scituat neere unto Apamia, raunged on everie side: and a wonder it was what a number they were, and how cunning and craftie beside: In this regard also much dreaded, for that making shew of substantial marchants houses, villages and towns: neither could any man beware of their sodaine comming, setting as they did their journey not to any one appointed place, but to sundrie quarters, and those farre re∣moved, and in one word, breaking in wheresoever the wind served to conduct them. For which verie cause, the Saxons are feared above other enemies, doing that they doe all on a sodaine. And albeit many mens goods were given and dealt among these confederat theeves, yet incontinent herewith, when they were once set a madding and entred into any intended furious action, they committed wo∣full murders, as being no lesse bloud-thirstie than greedie of prey. But least in re∣porting everie particular occurrent I should hinder the course and proceeding of my storie, it shall suffice to put downe this one most mischievous practise of theirs. A damned crew of these godlesse and ungracious folke being gathered in a plump together, resembling in outward shew the whole office of a Receivor or Auditor, and the Iudge himselfe, in a darke evening at the dolefull sound of trumpet, and voyce of crier, entred a citie, and with sword in hand beset the stately and sumptu∣ous built house of a certaine noble and principall personage, as if he had beene out∣lawed, and by speciall commission to be slaine: where, after they had seized into their hands and carryed away houshold-stuffe of much worth, because they of the house being sodainely taken, and their wits maskered, had not defended the master therof, slew a number, and before returne of the day-light departed and went their wayes a great pace. But when thus furnished and laden with the spoyle of many, for nothing went beside their hands, that was not too hot or too heavie (such was the sweetnesse they found in these cheits) intercepted they were by a power that the Emperour raised, and being over-matched lost their lives to the verie last man: yea and their issue and progenie, then but young and small, for feare they should grow up, like unto their parents, were in the same manner utterly destroyed, and their dwelling houses subverted, which with the lamentable losses of many they had bravely built. And thus verily went things according to the narration afore∣said. But Theodosius, a noble and renowmed captain, having gotten heart and cou∣ragious vigour, taking his journey from Augusta, which in old time they called

Lundinium, with a power of souldiors that in his politique industrie hee had levi∣ed and trained to his hand, brought exceeding great succour unto the troubled and confused state of the Britans, gaining before hand such places everie where, as gave advantage to annoy the barbarous enemies, and enjoyning the common souldiors no service, whereof himselfe tooke not the essay with a cheerefull heart. And in this kind as he performed the principall part of a stout souldior, and fulfilled the carefull function of an excellent leader, by discomfiting and putting to flight sundrie nations, whom insolent pride nourished with securitie, had incensed and incited to set upon the Romans territories, he restored wholly into the former state cities and castles which had sustained many losses, yea established peace surely founded for a long time. Now, there happened whiles he managed these affaires a foule matter, like to breake out to a daungerous mischiefe, if it had not beene quen∣ched in the verie beginning of the enterprise. One Valentinus in Pannonia Vale∣ria, a man of a proud spirit, brother unto the wife of Maximinus that cursed and mischievous deputie, afterwards Praefect, being banished into Britannie for an hai∣nous act committed, as one impatient of rest, like some noisome wild beast, upon a certaine swelling homour of pride, rose up to worke mischiefe and innovation in the State against Theodosius, whom he perceived to be the onely man able to with∣stand his wicked designes. Howbeit, casting many wayes about both closely and openly, as the gale of his unmeasurable desire rose higher, hee solicited the exiled persons and the souldiors, promising (as the time would affoord) rewards for their attempts, thereby to draw them on to his purpose. And now, when the time drew neere, that their attempts should take effect, the warlike leader aforesaid, advertised hereof by such as were meet to give information, and thereby readie to adventure, as also upon a resolute and couragious heart, forward ynough to be revenged of such as were detected, committed Valentinus verily with some few of his most in∣ward confederats, unto captain Dulcitius for to be executed with death according∣ly. But in his militarie skill and policie, wherein he excelled all men living in those dayes, guessing at future daungers, he inhibited all inquisitions to bee made as tou∣ching the rest of the conspirators with him, least if this feare proceeding were once spred among many, the tempestuous troubles of the provinces, now well allayed, should revive againe. From hence, turning himselfe to the distresse of many mat∣ters, and those of needfull consequence, now that all danger was quite past (for that it was for certaine knowne, that propitious fortune never failed him in all his enter∣prises) he reedified and repaired cities, the garrison castles also, as I have said, and the marches he defended with out-watches, with guards & fore-fences. And thus ha∣ving recovered the province againe, which had yeelded subjection to the enemies, he reduced it unto the pristine estate; so, as by his owne relation and report made, it both had a lawfull governor, and also was from that time called ^k Valentia, at the pleasure of the Prince. The Areans, a kind of people instituted by those in aunci∣ent time (concerning whom I have said somewhat in the acts of Constans) who by little and little were fallen into disorders and enormities, he removed from their sta∣tions: as being manifestly convicted, that induced with the greatnesse of rewards re∣ceived, and more promised, they had otherwhiles revolted unto the Barbarians, what was in hand and a doing among us. For, their office was this, by running a great ground to be cursitours to and fro, and to intimate unto our captaines upon the marches, what sturres there were among the neighbour nations. Thus having managed most excellently these matters abovesaid, and others the like, being sent

for to the Emperours Court, and leaving behind him the provinces leaping and dauncing for joy: like unto Furius Camillus, or Papyrius Cursor, renowmed he was for many victories, and those of good importance. And so, accompanied with the favour of all men to the narrow seas, having passed over with a gentle gale he came to the Princes campe. And being received with joy and prayses, hee suc∣ceeded in the roome of Valens Iovinus, who had the conduct of the horsemen.

CHAP. VIII. A returne to the citie affaires. The Prefectship or governement of Olybrius and Ampelius. The most corrupt state of Rome in those dayes. The errours and delinquencies of the Nobilitie.

HAving thus a long time and farre digressed from the citie busines∣ses (such was the heape of forraine affaires that forced me there∣unto) I will returne to a briefe declaration thereof, beginning at the Prefectship of Olybrius, which was exceeding quiet and mild. Who leaving at no time the constant course of gentlenesse and humanitie, was solicitous and carefull that no deed or word of his savouring of rigour should passe in any place: a most bitter enemie and in∣veyer against false accusations, abridging wheresoever he could the gaine accrew∣ing to the Exchequer: an absolute discerner and judge of things that are just, and verie temperat towards those that were under his jurisdiction. But there was a vice, and the same verily little hurtfull to the Commonwealth (howbeit a foule blot in a judge of high place) that darkened all these good parts: for that he passed the whole course and carriage, in manner, of his privat life in clining to riot in stage plaies and amorous delights, such as were neither forbidden nor dishonest. After him Ampe∣lius ruled the citie, a man given himselfe also to his pleasures, borne at Antioch, rai∣sed from being Master of the Offices to a double Proconsulship, and from thence long after to the high dignitie of Prefect: a man otherwise of merrie disposition, and most meet to win the peoples favour; but now and then rough and rigorous, and would God he had beene stedfast and constant in his purpose: for, in some part, though it were but little, he might have reformed the instigations to gluttonie and shut up naughtie houses of riot, had he not taken to loose and lascivious waies, and thereby lost that glorie which would long time have lived. For, once orday∣ned he had, That no wine Taverne should be opened before the fourth houre of the day, nor any of the vulgar sort ¹ heat his water, or until a certaine time of the day any cookes or skullians set out to sale flesh boyled or roasted: Neither would hee have any man of honest calling be seene eating abroad without his owne doores. Which shamefull abuses, and others greater than these, neglected by continual dis∣simuling and counivencie, grew so rife and common, without all stint and gage, that even ^m Epimenides himselfe of Crete, if, after the fashion of fables acted on the stage, he should be raised from the dead againe, and returne into our world, would not be sufficient alone to clense Rome. So great was the corruption of in∣curable vices that possessed the most part of the people. And first will we set down the disorders of the Nobilitie, as divers times we have done, as the opportunitie of places hath required: then, afterwards of the commons, by way of a briefe digres∣sion knitting up such matters as come into our minds. Some growing to be, as they

imagine, conspicuous by their glorious and goodly fore names extoll themselves above all measure: as for example, when they are called Ruburti, Plabunij, Pago∣nij, Geriones and Dalij, together with Tarracij and Perrasij, and many other such trim and brave sounding titles of their originall descent. Some yee have againe, whom rufling in their silkes and velvets, there follow in traine (as if they were to be led unto the place of execution, or, to speake without any evill presaging offe, ga∣thering their armor together, where an host is gone before) a number of servants by troupes, bustling and making a great noyse as they goe. Such as these, when they are entred within the vaulted roomes of any baine, attended with fiftie ser∣ving-men apeece at their heeles, crying out in menacing manner, Where? Where be they? if haply they have intelligence given them, that either some unknowne courtisan hath on a sodaine appeared, or a common strumpet that sometime hath prostituted her selfe to the whole towne, or some old whore naught of her bodie, they run all at once striving a vie who shall be formost; and after some dalliance with this stranger or new commer, they make love, and by way of much unseem∣ly flatterie, fall to praysing and extolling of her, as much as the Parthyans do ⁿ Semi∣ramis, Aegypt Cleopatra, the Carians Artimisia, or the Palmyrenes Zenobia. And this bash not those to doe, in whose auncestors time a Senatour was taxed and fi∣ned by the Censour, that durst, whiles it was not decent and seemly, kisse his owne wife, before the daughter of them both. Of these there be some, who when they begin to be saluted, or greeted breast to breast, turning their heads awry when they should be kissed, and brideling it like unto curst and fierce bulls, offering unto their flattering favourites their knees or hands to kisse, supposing that favour sufficient for them to live happily, and be made for ever; yea and that a stranger unto whom haply they be obliged, hath ynough and ynough againe of all manner of courte∣ous usage, in case he be but asked by them, What baine or water he frequenteth? or under whose roofe he lodgeth? And being such grave persons and lovers of vertue, as they take themselves to be, if they once but understand of any man brin∣ging word, there be either horses or chariotiers comming to towne, from what place soever, they throng about him, and ply him with a number of questions, like as our forefathers with admiration beheld their two brethren ^o Castor and Pollux, when upon the relation of those victories in auncient times, they filled all the citie with joy and mirth. These mens houses, yee shall have certaine idle talkative fel∣lowes ordinarily to haunt, after sundrie sorts and devised fashions of flatterie, at everie word sounding their high fortunes, and praysing them: affecting herein the ridiculous conceits and pleasant jests of these smel-feast-parasites in comedies. For, as they use to sooth up vaine glorious souldiors in their proud homor, ascri∣bing unto them as to the demie-gods fellowes, the besieging of cities, fighting of battailes, and slaying thousands of enemies: even so these also, wondering at their columnes built arch-wise with stately and loftie fronts, their stone walls also trimly set out with beautifull and glorious colours, extoll noble men above the degree of mortall weights. Otherwhiles also at their feasts, is the ballance called for to weigh the fishes and foules, yea and ^p dormice to, that are set upon the boord. The great∣nesse of which delicates oftentimes not without the irkesome wearinesse of those that be in place, they make no end of praysing, as a strange thing that hath not bin heretofore seene. But most of all, when there stand by readie to number the same, thirtie notaries welneere, with their standishes with pen and inke, and writing ta∣bles in their hands, so as a man would thinke there were wanting onely the master

himselfe, to make a shew of a Grammar schoole. Some there be, who in detestation of learning no lesse than very poyson, fall to reading with very earnest studie Iuve∣nall and Marius Maximus, handling no other bookes in the middest of their greatest leisure than these: what the reason thereof should be, it passeth my simple skill and judgement to set downe: whereas they ought to turne over many and sundry vo∣lumes, according to the amplitude of their glorie and parentage; hearing, as they doe, that Socrates committed to prison, & appointed to suffer death, requested one who sung excellently in measures certaine verses of the Lyricke ^q Poet Stesichorus, to teach him whiles he had time the like cunning: and when the Musician asked him, What good that could doe unto him, since he was to die the next day? he an∣swered thus: Even that I may depart out of this life, learning more than I knew before.

CHAP. IX. The reproches of Senatours and gowned men layd open.

MOreover, there be among them so few grave punishers of faults, that if a ser∣vant be somewhat slow in bringing hot water unto him, commandement is given, That he shall have three hundred stripes: but if wilfully he kill a man (though many there be very urgent to have him condemned) yet his lord or master alone thus farre forth crieth out, What should a mad man and a lewd knave doe? Furthermore, this is held a point of civilitie among them now adaies, That it is con∣venient for any one, & even by law in their power, to kill strangers invited by them, if they make default, any excuse notwithstanding. For a Senatour thinketh, that he sustaineth great domage in his very patrimonie, in case one be wanting whom he hath invited once to a feast, after sundrie serious consultations with himselfe therea∣bout. There be some of them, who if they have gone foorth any thing farre to see their lands and possessions, or a hunting by other mens labours, suppose they have equalled the journeyes and expeditions of Alexander the Great, or of Caesar; yea, or if from the lake Avernus they go by water in their painted barges no farther than to Puteoli or Cajeta, especially if they adventure such a voyage in a hote season: where, if it chaunce that among their gilded fannes there settle flies upon the silken fringes, or in case any small Sun-beame pierce through an hole of the tilt, hanging over their heads, they whine and complaine, that they were not borne among the ^r Cimmerij. Againe, when they use to come from the baine of ^s Sylvanus, or the medicinable waters of Mammaea, as any of them being forth of the Bath, doth wipe and drie himself with most fine linnens, there must be diligent seeking into the usu∣all presses for faire and daintie clothes, and that by the helpe of light to chuse them; which are carried at once together so many as are sufficient to serve eleven persons. And at the last being enwrapped or clad in some of them, picked out especially of purpose, he taketh his rings again which he had delivered unto his servants, because they should not take hurt by the hot waters, and so when he hath fitted them just by measure upon his fingers, away he goes. Of these there be certaine, though few, who decline the name of Aleatores, i. Dice-players, and therefore are desirous to be called Tesserarij, i. Tirlers of square bones; betweene whom there is as much diffe∣rence as betweene theeves and robbers. Yet thus much I must confesse, that where∣as all sorts of friendship at Rome wax luke warme and begin to coole, this onely of Dice-players, as if it were gotten with glorious sweat and travaile, is full of good

fellowship, & knit most fast and firme with exceeding love and affection. Whence it is, that some there be found of these companies so linked in amitie, that one would take them to be very brethren. And therfore a man shall see an ignoble and base fellow, so he be skilfull in the secret feat of cheators craft, like unto Cato Porcius for the repulse of a Praetorship (which repulse was neither suspected before, nor fea∣red) goe with a set gravitie very sad and melancholicke, because at a great feast or assemblie some Proconsular person was placed above him. Some there are that lye in wait for weake and crasie persons, old or yong, it skilleth not, such as have buried their children, or live single, yea, and those also that have wives & children both (for in this case there is no difference observed) enticing and drawing them on by won∣derfull wyles and craftie devices to make their Wils: now these folke no sooner have ordained their last Testaments, and left that which they had to those whom they were ruled by in making their Wils, but immediatly they peake aside, and die. Another yee shall have, who after some dignitie and promotion obtained, walketh portly with a big and bolne necke of his owne, and upon such as were of his famili∣ar acquaintance before, he casteth a crooked and overthwart looke, a man would thinke who sees him, that a new M. ^t Marcellus were returned from the winning of Syracusa. Many there be among them, that denie there is any high power above in heaven to governe us here; neither goe they forth of dores, nor take their dinner, nor thinke they can bath in safetie, before they have curiously looked into their ^u Ephe∣merides, where (for example) is the Planet of Mercurie, or what degree of the signe Cancer the Moone holdeth, as she runneth her course in the heaven. Another, if he perceive once that his creditour calleth hard upon him for debt, runneth presently to a chariotier that dares do any thing very audaciously, and taketh order to have the partie charged as a Sorcerer: wherupon he goes not away, before he hath deli∣vered up the obligation or specialtie, yea, & sustained great losse therwith. Neither is this all. He fetcheth him in voluntarily to acknowledge himselfe indebted unto him, and assoileth him not. On another side, the wife beating night and day (as the old proverbe sayth) upon the same anvill, urgeth her husband to make his Will, and the husband as instantly importuneth his wife to do the same. Then skilfull Law∣yers are retained on both parts for coūsell; the one in the bed chamber, the other his concurrent in the dining rowme, to handle and debate their controversies. And to the same are brought in and suborned interpretors of bowels and Soothsayers, to calculate their nativities, promising largely on the one side Praefectships, dignities, and burials of rich dames, on the other inviting the women (as it were) to the fune∣rals & obsequies of husbands, signifying covertly, that necessaries ought to be pro∣vided for the same. Neither know they any thing in the world to be good, but that which is commodious and gainefull. Thus love they their friends as they love cat∣tell; I meane, those best of all, from whom they hope to receive the most profit. And when these folke come to borrow any thing, you shall see them as humble and demisse as Mitio or ^x Laches in the Comoedie; but are they forced once to make re∣payment, so loftie and big, as you would take them to be those tragicall ^y Heraclida, Ctesiphon and Themenus.

CHAP. X. The slouth, vanitie, and base behaviour of the common people.

THus much of the Senatours degree. Now come we to the idle and base commons: Among whom, you shall have some going even without shooes bare foot, yet fine and goodly to be known by their trim and elegant names, to wit, Cimessores, Statarij, Se∣micupae, and Serapini, with others beside, namely, Cicimbricus, Glu∣turinus, and Trulla; likewise Lucanicus, Pordaca, Salsula, and an innumerable sort of such. These spend all their life and living at the wine taverne, and at dice-play, in brothel-houses also, in wanton pleasures, and seeing of delight∣some sights and games: the great Cirque or Shew-place is their temple and habi∣tation, the very Hall that they frequent, and all the hope they relie upon. And a man may see every where in the market places, quarrifours, streets, and meeting places, or assemblies, many companies of them gotten together, frapling one a∣gainst another pro & contrà, whiles some hold this, others that, as the manner is. Among whom these that have lived with greater authoritie than others a long time, even to satietie of yeares, use oftentimes to crie out along the Burses, Lom∣bards and Pawnes, That the Commonwealth and all were lost, if at the games and trials of masteries following, he that each one taketh part with, performeth not his race formost, and gaineth the goale first. Now, when the wished-for day of the chariot-running beginneth to peepe, before the cleare beames of the Sunne ap∣peare, they all make hast abroad, and hye apace, that with their quicke speed they may outgoe the very chariots that are to strive for the prize: about the successe and event whereof, a number of them, whiles they side and wish favourably divers wayes, in great perplexitie sit up and watch whole nights. Come from thence, to the base sports of the Theatre, those actors upon the stage there, are sure to be his∣sed out, in case they have not with some money bought the favour of the abject multitude. And if it chaunce that one of them misse the shout and noyse of the commons, by way of approbation, then, in imitation of the barbarous people of ^z Taurica, out they crie, That all strangers and forrainers ought to be expelled; even forrainers (I say) by whose aid they have at all times beene supported, and stood upright: and this doe they in foule and absurd tearmes, farre different from the affections and minds of those auncient commons; many of whose wittie and pleasant conceited speeches stand upon record. For now a dayes this device is found out to serve in stead of studious resound of their prayses who be worthie thereof, that by certaine persons framed and appointed to speake in every shew or spectacle exhibited, you shall have them (unto the Enterlude-rhymer, the Baiter, the Chariotier, and Stage-player of every sort, likewise unto the Iudges and Magi∣strats as well the higher as the inferiour, yea, and unto the Dames) come out con∣tinually with this bald note, Let him learne by thee. But what it is that should be lear∣ned, no man is able to declare. Among these, there be a number given wholly to gourmandise and belly cheare, who like smell-feasts tracing the steame and sent of meat, and listening to the shrill voices of women, from the very cocke-crow, in manner of Peacockes crying for hunger and emptinesse, tripping a tiptoe lightly upon the ground, are at hand in every great mans Hall, readie even to gnaw their owne fingers ends, whiles the dishes of meat be cooling: others againe looking

and prying over the pot (ynough to overturne ones stomacke) of raw meat, wai∣ting wistly untill it be through sodden: So as a man would thinke, that with other Anatomists, Democritus were there, searching the intrayles of beasts cut up, to teach by what meanes posteritie might cure inward diseases. This may suffice for the whole to have discoursed as touching the citie matters: Let us returne now to the rest, that have occasioned many and sundrie occurrences in the pro∣vinces.

CHAP. XI. The warre against the Saxons, daunted with the very sight and presence of the Romane souldiors, afterwards by a wile enclosed, and bewed in pieces every one.

WHiles the Emperours were now the third time Consuls, there brake out a multitude of Saxons; and having passed through the dangers of the Ocean, kept on their march, and bent their journey into the Romane limits; as who had oftentimes been fed with the slaughter of our men. The brunt of which first violent excursion of theirs Nannenus sustained, who was the Lieutenant appointed for those regions: a man approoved a long time in the toylesome service of warres. But as then having encountred with a multitude reso∣lute to die, when he saw that some of his souldiors were slaine, and himselfe sore wounded, not able to match those skirmishes redoubled upon him, after he had in∣structed the Emperour what was to be done, thus much he obtained, That Severus colonell of the footmen, should come to succour his distressed state: Who having the conduct of a sufficient power, when he was come to the place, and had marshal∣led men into sundry and severall rankes, before the conflict began, terrified and dis∣ordered the Barbarians so, that they opposed not their hands to make resistance, but having their eyes dazeled with the brightnesse of the ensignes and Eagles, craved pardon and peace. And upon long debating and consultation, when this was thought in policie behoofefull for the Commonweale, after a truce concluded, and many tall and serviceable young men for the warres allowed (according to a capi∣tulation & condition drawne in that behalfe) the Saxons were permitted to depart without let and hinderance, to repaire unto the place from whence they came. For whom, devoid now of all feare, and upon their returne, certaine footmen of ours, sent out secretly, lay in ambush within a valley, from whence they might with little adoe assayle as many as passed by. But it fell out farre otherwise with them than they hoped. For at the noyse of the Saxons comming, some of our men being raised, leapt forth in an unseasonable time, and being suddainly discovered, whiles they make hast to strengthen themselves, were put to flight by the Barbari∣ans, yelling in a dolefull and hideous manner. Howbeit, soone after they cast them∣selves in a ring, and stood to it, and since extremitie ministred strength unto them (though the same was somewhat impaired) forced they were to fight: and after a great slaughter of them made, they had died for it every one, and not left one man alive, but that a cornet of our horsemen, armed at all pieces, placed in like sort on a∣nother side neere to the parting of the way, for to endanger the Barbarians as they passed by, moved and stirred up with the fearefull crie that they heard, nimbly suc∣coured them. After this, the encounter was much more eagre and sharpe, and the Romanes with resolute hearts giving the recharge, enclosed them, and with their

drawne swords killed them downe right. Neither could any of them returne to see his native home againe: for, not so much as one of them was permitted to re∣maine alive after the execution of his fellow souldiors. And albeit some just and precise judge of matters, may blame this as a perfidious and foule fact, yet if the case be well weighed and considered, he will not take it indignly, that a mischievous companie of robbers were in the end upon an advantage and opportunitie surpri∣sed and cut off.

CHAP. XII. Valentinian setteth the Burgundians upon the Alemans, who being gone forward as farre as to the bankes of Rhene, and finding no helpe of Roman succours, re∣turne into their native countrey: But Theodosius setting up∣on the Alemans dispersed in Rhetia, partly killeth them, and partly sendeth them into Italy for to dwell about the Po.

AFter these affaires so fortunately performed, Valentinian tossing sundrie thoughts in his mind, was verie carefully perplexed, revolving full many wayes and casting about, by what meanes he might take downe and quell the pride of the Alemans, and their king Macrianus, who without all measure and end, with restlesse stirres and broyles troubled the Roman State. For, this fierce and cruell nation ever since the first beginning and rising thereof, how ever they were abated with the varietie of accidents and chaunces, yet grow eftsoones so, as that a man would thinke they had not for many ages beene once touched. But as the Emperour had the approoving of one counsell after ano∣ther, at the length he resolved upon this, That the Burgundians, a warlike nation, puissant for their huge multitude, and therefore dreadfull to all their neighbours, should be raysed up in armes for the rooting of them out. And many times hee wrot unto their kings by certaine trustie and secret messengers, That at a fore-ap∣pointed time they should sodainely invade and surprise them, promising that him∣selfe also in person passing over the Rhene with the Roman forces, would encoun∣ter them, being once affrighted, and seeking to avoid this unlooked-for power of armed men. These letters of the Prince were thankefully and gladly received in two respects: First, for that the Burgundians knew themselves to bee of auncient time an ofspring descended from the Romans: and againe, because they contested oftentimes with the Alemans about the salt-pits, and about their bounds: where∣upon they sent most chosen and picked bands: which, before that our souldiors were assembled together, being gone forward as farre as to the bankes of Rhene, whiles the Emperour was busily occupied in raysing of forts, terrified our men ex∣ceeding much. Wherefore, after they had stayed a small while, when as neither Valentinian came at the day appointed according to promise, nor they could per∣ceive any thing done that was undertaken, they dispatched embassadours to the Court, requiring they might have some ayd sent unto them: intending otherwise to returne home into their owne countrey, least they should expose their back parts naked to the enemies. Which when they perceived by circumstances to be deny∣ed, and that the Emperour trifled out the time, they departed from thence with in∣dignation. When their kings and princes understood this, as if they had beene de∣luded

and mocked, they fell into a rage, and after they had killed all the prisoners re∣turned into their native countries. Among these Burgundians the king by a gene∣rall name is called Hendinos, and according to an auncient rite and custom, is depo∣sed from his regall authoritie and removed, in case under his raigne the wars speed not well, or the earth yeeld not plentie of corne; like as the Aegyptians are woont to ascribe such chaunces unto their governours. For, the highest priest among the Burgundians, is tearmed Sinistus, and continueth for tearme of life, not subject to any such daungers as their kings be. By this occasion falling out in so fit and op∣portune a time, when the Alemans for feare of the foresaid nation were dispersed, Theodosius at that time generall of the horsemen, did set upon them, and having slaine a number of them, whomsoever he tooke prisoners, he sent by the Princes commaundement into Italie, where they had fertile lands assigned unto them, and now are become tributaries, and dwell about Padus.

CHAP. XIII. The mournfull and heavie plight of Tripolis a Province in Affricke, is here lively described.

FLitting from hence, as it were, into another world, let us come to the trouble of Tripolis, a Province in Affrica, which even Iustice also her selfe, as I suppose, hath bewailed: Whence these broyles grew so to burne like flaming fire, the text ensuing shall at full declare. The barba∣rous Asturians bordering hard upon these parts, readie at all times and nimbly ap∣pointed to make rodes, used also to live upon rapine and slaughter, having for a lit∣tle while beene at peace, returned againe to their naturall insurrections, pretending this as a serious cause of quarell. One named Stachao, a countreyman of theirs, in raunging over our Province at his pleasure, committed certaine acts forbidden by the lawes; among which this was notorious above the rest, that he went about by all subtile and deceitfull meanes to betray the Province, as was prooved by most true evidences: for which, he suffered punishment accordingly, and was burnt to death. They then alledging for their quarrell, the revenge of his death, as being their neere kinsman, and unjustly condemned, like unto wild beasts enraged, flung out of their owne habitation, even whiles Iovian was Emperour: and fea∣ring to approach Leptis, a citie strongly walled, and as well peopled, fat them downe for three dayes together in a plentifull place within the territorie thereof. And having either killed the rusticall people, whom this unlooked-for and sodaine feare had daunted, or else forced them to flie unto caves for refuge, and burned much houshold goods that could not be carryed away, enriched thus with much spoyles and booties, returned; leading away as prisoner Silva likewise, whom by chaunce they found in the field, a principall man of his ranke and degree. The men of Leptis, affrighted with this sodaine calamitie, before the troubles and ca∣lamities should encrease, which these Barbarians in their swelling pride menaced, in lamentable manner craved the ayd of Romanus newly advanced to be the Co∣mes or Lieutenant in Affricke. Who when he was come with militarie forces un∣der his conduct, and requested to succour their distressed state, assured them, that he would dislodge and remove from thence, unlesse there might be brought toge∣ther great store of victuals, and foure thousand camels provided and put in readi∣nesse

accordingly. At this answer, the pitifull citizens being astonied, and avou∣ching they were notable after such wastings and burnings to provide any remedie of their exceeding great losses, by the meanes of such enorme and huge a prepara∣tion; the said Lieutenant having spent there after a dissembling sort fortie dayes, without attempting any exployt departed. The Tripolitanes disappointed of this their hope, and fearing extremitie, when the lawfull and ordinarie day was come of their parliament, which with them is yearely holden, ordained Severus and Flac∣cianus embassadours, to present unto Valentinian by way of congratulation for his entrance into the Empire, golden counterfaits, or images of ^α Victories; as also boldly to lay open the lamentable ruines of the Province. Which when Romanus understood, he sent out in post a most swift horseman unto Remigius Master of the offices, who was his neere kinsman, or partner rather with him in all his pillages, willing him providently to take order, that by the wil and appointment of the Em∣perour the inquisition for the full knowledge of this affaire might bee committed unto him as vicar or deputie. Well, the embassadors aforesaid arrived at the court, & having accesse unto the Prince, by word of mouth shewed what calamities they sustained: and withall exhibited the decrees containing the order and discourse of the whole matter. Which being read, when as credit was given neither to the re∣ports and intelligences of the Master of the offices, who favoured the lewd acts of Romanus, nor to those that related the contrarie, the ful debate and deciding of this businesse being promised, was deferred after the same maner as the games of some high magistrat are woont to be, namely, when greater imployments and affaires be in hand. Meanewhile that some remedies were expected from the Princes campe, and the Tripolitanes stood long doubtfull and in suspense, the bands and compa∣nies of the Barbarians came upon them at unwares againe (as bearing themselves bold of that which was past) and when they had with fire and sword over-run the territories of of Leptis and Oea, & laden themselves with mightie heapes of bootie and pillage, departed; having slaine many ^β Decurions , among whom ^γ Rus̄tica∣nus a Prelat or Clergie man, and Nicasius an ^δ Aedile were chiefe. And this out∣rode or invasion of theirs, could not be debarred; for, that upon the request of the same embassadors the whole charge of militarie affaires conferred upon the President Ruricius, was soone after transferred to Romanus: And now by this time the messenger of this new inflicted calamitie being dispatched into Gaule, stirred up the Prince more earnestly to looke into the thing. And therefore Palladius a Tribune and Notarie both, was sent, as well to give unto the souldiors dispersed throughout Affricke their due wages, as to search faithfully (as meet it was) into the occurrences of Tripolis. Howbeit during the delayes this of treatie, and the ex∣pectation of answer, the Asturians growne insolent by reason of this twofold suc∣cesse, like unto ravening foules made more cruell and eagre with the tast of bloud that had so fleshed them, flew upon the inhabitants; and when they had killed all save those who by running away escaped the daunger, augmented the booties which beforetime they had left behind them, by cutting up both trees and vines. Then Michon, a certaine noble citizen and a mightie, being taken prisoner in a vil∣lage neere unto the citie, and slipped away before he was bound, because hee was not able to escape quite, by reason he had the gout in his feet, cast himselfe into a pit without water; whereby he brake a rib, and being lifted out by the Barbarians and brought neere unto the gates of the citie, for verie commiseration of his wife, hee was ransomed, and being drawne up by a rope to the battlements of the wall, after

two dayes dyed. Whereupon these most cruell brigands and robbers growne ob∣stinat in their purpose, gave an assault upon the walls of Leptis, resounding with the wofull weeping and wailing of women, who having never before beene by ene∣mies besieged, were with this unwonted feare much amazed and dismayed. Now, after they had besieged the citie for eight dayes together, when certaine of the as∣saylants were wounded, without any matter effected, they returned to ther owne home verie sad and ill appaied.

CHAP. XIIII. The Court-like practises of Romanus, Prefect of the Province, of Palladius and others, to worke the destruction of the Tripolitanes.

FOr which accidents the citizens doubtfull of their lives, and assaying the utmost meanes they could devise, ere that the embassadors dis∣patched before were returned, send Iovinus and Pancratius, to give faithfull intelligence unto the Emperour, of what they had seene, and what themselves had endured: who meeting with Severus and Flaccianus, those former embassadours, at Carthage, understood by them (after question made how they had sped) that by commaundement the hearing of their case was committed to the said Deputie and the Lieutenant. Of those twaine Seve∣rus who was fallen exceeding grievously sick, straight waies died therof. Neverthe∣lesse, these other embassadors aforesaid made great journeyes and sped them in all hast to the Court. After this, when the said Palladius was entred into Affricke, Ro∣manus advertised beforehand for what cause he was come, to the end he might pro∣vide for his owne securitie and safetie, gave order to the Principals of the bands, by certaine that were privie to his secrets, that unto him, as to a mightie man, and next unto the chiefe personages of the Palace, they should acknowledge received the greatest part of the wages which he had brought over with him to pay. And this was done accordingly. He then hereby enriched forthwith set forward to Leptis; and that he might the better search out the truth, he led forth with him unto the places which lay wasted, Erechthius and Aristomenes, two eloquent Bourgesses, and men of good note, who frankly ripped up the miseries of themselves, the citizens and the neighbour inhabitants. Now when they had plainly declared and shewed all, he having onely seene the lamentable ruines and ashes of the Province, retur∣ned: and greatly rebuking Romanus as an idle and slothfull governour, hee threa∣tened that he would most truely relate unto the Prince whatsoever he had seene. And the other againe in a great chafe and griefe hereat, promised, That hee also shortly would give information, that Palladius being sent as an upright and uncor∣rupt Notarie, had interverted and conveyed all the souldiors donative to his owne proper gaine. In which regard, having his owne conscience to condemne him for his lewd dealings, he afterwards grew to an attonement with Romanus. So being returned unto the Court, by the impious art of lying he deceived Valentinian, and reported, That the Tripolitanes complained without cause. And therefore sent back he was againe with Iovinus the last of all the embassadours (for Pa••cr atius was departed this life at Triers) to the end that himselfe with the Vicarius should see into the reason and cause of this second embassage. Besides all this, the Emperour commaunded, That the tongues of Erechthius and Aristomenes, whom the same

Palladius had intimated to have spoken certaine words upon spight and envie, should be cut out of their heads. The Notarie, as it was appointed, followed after the deputie, and came to Tripolis: which when Romanus knew, he sent with speed a domesticall servant of his thither, and Caecilius his counsellor, one borne in that province; by whose meanes all the burgeffes being circumvented (with money or craftie sleights I wot not) laid great blame upon Iovinus, affirming constantly, That they had given him information of no such matters as he had delivered unto the prince: and thus farre proceeded iniquitie and indirect dealing, that Iovinus also himselfe, to the endangering of his owne life, confessed he had told the Emperour a lye. Which being made knowne by Palladius when he was come backe, Valenti∣nian (a prince very prone to ire and crueltie) commaunded, That Iovinus verily, as the author and principall, but Coelestius, Concordius, and Lucius, as privie and parte∣ners with him in that false information, should loose their heads: as for Ruricius the President, he awarded him also to suffer death: and this moreover made much a∣gainst him, for that in his certificate given up, there were read certaine over-big words of his, as it was thought: and Ruricius verily was executed at Sitifis; but the rest at Vtica had their judgement by the sentence of Crescens, the deputie there. Howbeit, Flaccianus being heard judicially by the said deputie and lieutenant be∣fore the death of those embassadours, as he stoutly pleaded in defence of his life, with the shouts and outcries of the angrie souldiors in their violent heat, and with taunting tearmes was well neere stabbed to death; who objected, That the Tripo∣litanes could not therefore be defended, because themselves refused to find and al∣low necessarie meanes for the maintenance of an expedition: and hereupon being cast into prison, whiles the Emperour (being asked his advice, What was meet to be done?) was in determining some course, by solliciting (as might wel be thought) his keepers, brake prison, and fled to the citie of Rome; where lying close, by the course of nature he ended his dayes.

CHAP. XV. The iustice of God calleth for due revenge of these most wicked and ungracious men.

WIth this memorable end ensuing, Tripolis after it had been fore plagued as well with forraine as home-calamities, was appeased, and not left without defence; because the eternall eye or Iustice and the Furies re∣venging the death of those embassadours and the President aforesaid, watched over them. For long after, such an event as this brake out and came to light. Palladius cassed and discharged from his militarie oath, and deprived of that place which made him swell with pride, went to lead a privat life; and when Theo∣dosius, that noble Generall and grand Commaunder, came into Africke for to sup∣presse Firmus, who attempted mischievous matters, and according to his commissi∣on rifled the moveable goods of Romanus aforenamed, among his papers and wri∣tings there was found a letter also of one Meterius, containing in it these words: Domino Patrono Romano Meterius, i. Meterius to his Lord and Patron Romanus gree∣ting: and in the end, after many impertinent words; Palladius the outcast saluteth you, who sayth, That for none other cause he was cast out of favour, but for that in the mat∣ter of the Tripolit anes he made a lye in the Emperours sacred eare. This letter being

sent unto the Court, and there read, Meterius by the commaundement of Valentini∣an being apprehended, confessed, That the Epistle was his: and therfore Palladius, commaunded to be brought foorth and shewed in place, thinking with himselfe, what a deale of criminall matters he had brewed, in a certaine station at the begin∣ning of night observing the absence of the keepers (who upon a feastivall day of the Christians lodged all night in the church) knit his necke in an halter, and so throtled himselfe, and died. This overture of more happie fortune being fully known, and the stirrer up of these wofull broyles dispatched out of the way, Erech∣thius and Aristomenes leapt out of their lurking holes: who when they were adver∣tised, That commaundement was given to have their tongues (as overlong and la∣vish) to be cut out of their heads, voided aside to farre remote and hidden corners. And when Gratian the Emperour was frankely informed of this lewd and wicked machination (for now by this time was Valentinian departed this life) they were sent unto Hesperius the Proconsull and Flavianus the deputie, to have the hearing of their cause; whose equitie, supported with most just and due authoritie (after that Caecilius was examined upon the racke) found thus much by his open confession, That himselfe had given counsell and persuaded the citizens to burthen the embas∣sadours with a lye. After these acts, there followed a certificat, which opened to the full the whole truth of all; unto which there was no answere made. And that this tragicall narration should leave out no part unhandled of so terrible an argument, thus much also came upon the stage, even after the hangings were drawne and ta∣ken downe. Romanus being gone to the court, brought with him Caecilius, to ac∣cuse the Commissioners aforesaid, as enclined over-much to the side of the pro∣vince: and he, received with the favour of Merobaudes, required, That there should be many of their friends and kinsfolkes presented and brought in place: Who, when they were come to Millaine, and had shewed by probable proofes and ar∣guments, without dissimulation, That for no cause they were drawne thither, were discharged, and so returned home. Yet while Valentinian was alive, after the for∣mer occurrences which we have told, Remigius also being departed from the court to a privat life, strangled himselfe with an halter, and so ended his dayes, as we will shew in place convenient.

Notes

• Zeeblack. Simler. Soppan. Lazio.
• Styria. Lazio, a part of Pannonia.
• Corsica at this day.
• Sardegna.
• Tuscane.
• Witchcraft and Sercerie. Venenis.
• Organarius.
• Maximinus.
• Magick, Sorcerie, and Enchantments
• or Note.
• Consutarius, a partner or Counsellor.
• Ottegoli.
• the Senators.
• as magick, witch. craft, charmes &c.
• or Court, Comi∣tatum.
• Audaluzia.
• Clarissimi.
• Who peradven∣ture could skill of Sorcerie, &c.
• altera, to wit, Flaviana.
• an Organ-maker or Organist.
• a professed wrestler.
• Summitas, for this author useth it indifferently
• Here am I glad∣ly Scepticus: whiles one taketh it for a nonze, ano∣ther a pulley, a third for a hatchet and a fourth for, I woe not what, bloudy substance &c. I suppose they almisle the mark: and untill we may meet with a more perfect copie I cannot determine. The place I doubt is corrupt.
• who was a very inward friend with Maximinus.
• by enchantmem and sorcerie.
• or adulterie: stup••••. for this word is other∣whiles taken as large for all incon∣tinencie.
• Neckar.
• where now is Speyr. Herald.
• or principall Secretarie.
• Maratocu∣prenum.
• London.
• Stiria.
• Theodosius.
• of the Pretorium.
• ten of the clocke.
• Candie.
• Stew or hot∣house.
• an Historiogra∣pher.
• Lago di Triper∣gola.
• Puzzole.
• Gaietta.
• or Bon-grace.
• 〈…〉〈…〉.
• Burguignians.
• The river P••.
• Tripoli de Barbaria.
• of Asturias.
• Neapoli de Barbaria.
• Neapoli de Barbaria.
• of Come.
• of Senators degree.
• or Captaines.
• Prastarent, or given unto him.
• Romanus.
• or Deputit.
• against Romanus.
• or commendeth him unto you.
• or baiting towne.
• necessaries.