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 XX. BOOKE.

CHAP. 1. Lupicinus is sent from Iulianus into Britannie, for to represse the troubles and commotions there. Vrsicinus, by the slanderous calumniations of those in the Court depressed and throwne underfoot, laid away his girdle of knighthood, and is commaunded to betake himselfe to a private life.

THis was the order and processe of affaires throughout Illyri∣cum and the East. But in the tenth yeare of Constantius his Consulship, and third of Iulianus, when by the out-rodes of Scots and Picts, savage nations, the peace was broken in Brit∣tannie, and the places neere unto the limits appointed for mar∣ches wasted, so that the provinces (wearied with a multitude of calamities past, heaped upon them) were affrighted, Caesar kee∣ping his Winter in Paris, and distracted into sundry carefull thoughts, was afraid to goe and succour those beyond the seas, as Constantius had done before time (accor∣ding as I have declared) least he should leave Gaule without a ruler; especially at such a time, when the Alemans were stirred up to make cruell warres. He thought it good therefore to send into these parts, for to set all things in order, Lupicinus at the same time Colonell of the Infanterie, a warlike man, I assure you, and skilfull in feats of armes; but prowd withall, carrying a stately looke, setting up his browes aloft like horns, and speaking thereto as big, yea, and keeping a stirre, as one would say, he acted in a Tragedie upon the stage; of whom, men doubted a long time, whether he were more covetous than cruell. This great captaine therefore above∣named setting forward on his journey with the auxiliarie light appointed souldi∣ors, to wit, the ^a Heruli, Batavi, and many companies of the Moesici, in the middest of Winter came to Bononia: and having gotten shipping, and embarked all his souldiors, with a good gale of wind, which hee waited for, arrived at Rutupię, just overagainst it, and so marcheth toward Lundinium, that from thence, after advice taken, according to the qualitie of the businesse he might make more speed to come into the field and give battaile. Whiles these affaires thus proceed, after the assault and forcing of Amida, when Vrsicinus was returned to the princes campe and captaineship of the footmen (for wee said before that hee succeeded

Barbatio in that place) he had his welcome given him by backbiters, who first dis∣persed abroad in whispering manner biting slaunders, and then followed on with framing openly counterfeit criminations. Whereunto the Emperour giving eare readily, as measuring most things by an opinion onely, and lying open to wait-lay∣ers and accusers, appointeth Arbetio and Florentius, master of the Offices, to bee Commissioners and Iudges, to make inquisition, what the reason was, that the foresaid towne was rased: who, when they rejected the evident and probable causes thereof, and feared least Eusebius, then high Chamberlaine, should bee of∣fended, in case they had admitted the proofes and arguments which plainely shew∣ed, That what misfortunes befell there, happened all through the obstinate negli∣gence and cowardise of Sabinianus; beeing turned quite from listening unto the truth, enquired after vaine and frivolous matters, and farre from the purpose. With which unjust proceeding, he being throughly mooved, who heard the manner of it: And if (quoth he) the Emperour despiseth me, yet this present businesse is of that weightie importance, that it can neither be knowne nor punished otherwise than by the personall iudgement of the prince, yet know he thus much by way, as it were, of praesage and prophesie, that whiles he mourneth for these accidents, which he hath learned by an ho∣nest and true relation to have chaunced at Amida, and whiles he is led after the will and pleasures of his guelded Eunuches, himselfe present in person with the whole puissance of his armie will not be able the next Spring to helpe Mesopotamia, when it shall have need of defence. At these words and many more put to them, related with a malicious glosse and exposition set thereto, Constantius exceeding wroth, without farther sif∣ting the matter, or suffering those particulars to be layed open whereof he was ig∣norant, commaunded him thus traduced with false imputations, to give over his place of commaund in the armie, and to betake himselfe to a privat life, promoting Agilo into his rowme (which was an unreasonable leape) considering he before was no better than a Tribune of the Gentiles Scutarij.

CHAP. II. A memorable eclipse of the Sunne in the East parts. A discourse according to Naturalists, as touching the motions of Sunne and Moone, and their eclipses.

AT the same time, in the east parts, the aire was to mens sight over cast with a darke mist, and from the dawning of the day untill noone tide, starres were seene continually to shine. And to increase this fearefull accident, it fell out so, that when the heavenly daylight was hidden by reason that there was a totall darknesse over the face of the earth like unto the night, men were afraid, and supposed verily, that the Sunne was extraordinarily eclipsed, see∣ing him first diminished to the shape of the Moone, horned, or in the new; then, in∣creased to the forme of an halfe Moone, and afterward restored full and whole a∣gaine. A thing that happeneth not at other times so evidently, unlesse it be when the Moone, after unequall and oblique courses, and certaine spaces betweene, in her change returneth to the same points or beginning; that is, when in the house of the same signe the whole body of the Moone is found by most direct lines quite oppo∣site under the Sunne, and stayeth a while in these minutes, which in the art of Geo∣metrie are tearmed Parts. But, albeit the conversions and motions of both planets, as the searchers of intelligible causes have observed, after the course of the moone

fulfilled, by a perpetuall distinction meet in one and the same end: yet is not the Sunne in those daies alwayes hidden and covered, but when the Moone by a just plumbe-line, as it were, is opposite in the middest, and interposed betweene the fie∣rie globe of the Sunne and our sight. In briefe, then is the Sunne hidden, and his shining light suppressed, when himselfe and the roundle of the Moone (the lowest of all the starres) accompanying together, keeping their owne proper Sphęres, and placed joyntly (saving the regard of height) as Ptolomaee both skilfully and elegant∣ly sheweth, are come to those dimensions which they usually tearme in the Greeke tongue 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is to say, eclipticke or defective conjunctions ascending and descending. And if they touch the places joyning close unto the said joynts, the eclipse will be the smaller: but if they abide in the very points and joynts, which bind more streight together the said ascents and des∣cents, then is the skie overcast with grosser darkenesse, as if the aire were thickened; so that we are not able to see so much as the things that stand just before our eyes. Moreover, wee thinke that wee behold two Sunnes in this wise: in case a cloud mounted higher than ordinarie, and shining againe by reason of the neerenesse of those eternall lights, represent the brightnesse of another circle by the reflection, as it were, from a pure glasse. Now, come we to the Moone. Thus onely and not otherwise suffereth the Moone a plaine and evident eclipse, when beeing in her full light round, and opposit unto the Sunne, she is from his Orbe distant one hun∣dred and eightie parts, that is to say, in the seventh signe. And albeit this distance and opposition happeneth alway in every full Moone, yet for all that shee is not al∣wayes then eclipsed. But because she being placed about the mobilitie of the earth and the utmost of that universall beautie, and most remote from heaven, putteth her selfe under the Sunne, that otherwhiles striketh upon her, by interposition of the limit of the night that endeth in a pointed cone, she lieth hidden for a while, and is enwrapped or covered within the blacke globes of shadow, in case the Sunne, compassed about with the bent of the inward Sphęre, by reason of the masse of earth lying in the way, is not able to enlighten her with his beames, for that she hath no proper light of her owne, according as divers opinions have collected. Againe, when by equall parts she meeteth with the Sunne at one and the same signe, darke∣ned she is (as hath beene said) totally, and her white and bright hue is wholly ob∣scured, what time she is called in Greeke 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. in her conjunction or change. Now, she is thought to arise new againe, when by a small declining, as it were, from a plumbe-line, she carrieth the Sunne erected just over her. And this arising of hers as yet but small, is first seene of men, when leaving the companie of the Sunne, she proceedeth to the second signe. After she is gone therefore further still, and is now good and lightsome, and shaped, as one would say, with hornes, she commeth to be tearmed 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. carrying the forme of a Moone: but what time shee beginneth to be removed a great way and distance from the Sunne, so that she is proceeded as farre as to the fifth signe, for that his beames are turned upon her, shee conceiveth greater light, and is named in the Greeke tongue 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, which forme representeth a semicircle. Then passing on still, and having now caught the most remote signe, she sheweth the figure 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, bearing and bunching out on both sides: but when she is sited just against and directly by line opposite, she will shine out at the full, as keeping the house of the seventh signe, yea, and whiles shee converseth or abideth yet in the same, and beeing a little gone further, diminisheth; which habite or state of hers we tearme 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. full, or whole Moone; and the same formes as before,

she taketh againe in her wane as she waxeth old. And out of the learning of many writers that agree in one mind, we are taught, that the Moone was never seene u∣niversally eclipsed or darkened altogether, but in the time of her change. Moreo∣ver, whereas we have said before, that the Sunne hath his course one while above in the skie, and another while in the world below, yee are to know, That the bodies of planets and starres, in regard of the universall frame of the world, neyther set norrise; but seeme so to our sight (who are here beneath upon the earth) as eleva∣ted and held aloft by the motion of some inward spirit, and in comparison of the great fabricke of the world, are set under it no bigger than a small pricke: and one while wee behold above us the starres fixed in the skie, whose order is perpetuall; and sometimes againe, because mans sight doth faile, we suppose they are depar∣ted and gone out of their places. But now let us returne to our purposed hy∣storie.

CHAP. III. The vertues of Iulianus gaule Constantius to the heart. Now when he was minded to take from him the auxiliarie forces, the souldiors favouring Iulian, stand against, partly with open mouth, and partly by casting abroad a libell.

WHiles Constantius made hast to succour the East, which was like shortly to be infested with the Persians outrodes, according as both fugitives and intelligencers in one accord declared, vexed he was for very envie with the vertues of Iulianus, which by a generall bruit were blazed a∣broad, and talked of dayly among sundrie nations: the loftie praises of whose great travailes and exploits, fame carried and divulged in the world; as namely, how after certaine kingdomes of Alemain conquered, hee had recovered townes in Gaule, sacked aforetime and rased by the barbarous enemies, whom hee made tributaries, and subject to pay imposts. Being moved in regard of these and such like matters, and fearing least the same would grow greater, considering that (as the report went) Florentius the Praefect pricked him on, hee sent Decentius, a Tribune and Notarie both, to fetch away from him forthwith the Heruli and Batavi, the Celts also, toge∣ther with the Petulantes, and three hundred besides, chosen foorth of other bands, who under this colour were commaunded to make speed, that they might bee in readinesse for to warre in the beginning of the Spring upon the Parthians. And as touching aid-souldiors verily, and other three hundred to bee levied and gathered, Lupicinus, who was for certaine knowne not to have passed over as yet into Britan∣nie, was dealt withall apart by himselfe: but out of the Scutarij and Gentiles, Sin∣tula, Tribune at the same time of Caesars table, had commaundement to draw foorth all those that were of greatest activitie, and to bring them along himselfe. Iulian held his tongue all this while, and condiscended hereunto, submitting all to the will and pleasure of the mightier person. Howbeit, this one thing he could nei∣ther dissimule nor passe over with silence, but urge instantly, That those might suf∣fer no troubles, who leaving their habitations beyond Rhene, were come under this capitulation and condition, That they should not be at any time led unto the parts beyond the Alpes: avouching, that it was to bee feared, least the voluntarie souldiors of the Barbarians, who oftentimes upon such tearmes and conditions were wont to come over and side with us, taking knowledge hereof, might hereaf∣ter be kept backe from performing the like service. But all his speech came to no∣thing.

For the sayd Tribune making no account of Caesars complaints, obeyed the Emperours commaundement: but after hee had made choise of a companie very lightly appointed, such as for lively vigour and delivernesse of bodie surpas∣sed all others, with them hee went foorth, hoping confidently for greater matters. And because Caesar, pensive what should bee done with the rest that were com∣maunded to be sent, and casting in his mind divers and sundrie thoughts, deemed, that the businesse ought to be managed with good heed and circumspection, see∣ing also the cruell Barbarians on the one side, and the powerfull commaund on the other to enforce him; and especially for that the absence of the Generall of the horsemen made him most to doubt, hee willed the Praefect to returne unto him, who beforetime was departed to Vienna under colour to provide victuals, that he might exempt himselfe from militarie troubles. For he well considered, that ac∣cording to his own relation, which he was thought in times past to have sent, those warlike bands, dreadfull alreadie to the Barbarians, were to bee withdrawne from the defence of Gaule: who when he had received Caesars letters, advising and re∣questing him to come with all speed as to assist the Common-wealth with his counsell, most obstinately drew backe and refused; his mind with feare being trou∣bled in regard of the letters which plainely imported thus much, That the Praefect ought no where to be parted from the chiefe Commander in any heat and broile of fearefull stirres: and thus much moreover was written, That in case hee held off to performe this service accordingly, himselfe of his owne accord would cast from him the ensignes of his princely authoritie, as taking it to be honourable and glori∣ous for him to die by commaundement, than that the destruction of the provinces should be imputed unto him. But the stiffe and constant resolution of the Praefect prevailed, with all his might striving againe & refusing to yeeld obedience to those things which with reason were required. Howbeit, in the time of these delayes of Lupicinus absent, and the souldiors mutinies, Iulian destitute of the helpefull coun∣sell of the prowd Praefect, and waving in doubtfull tearmes what to doe, supposing this to be his best course, determined to hasten them forward on their journey by the ordinarie way, beeing all departed out of the stations wherein they wintered. This being knowne, one among the companies of the Petulantes closely let fall upon the ground a libell, which with many other contents carried this tenor also: Thus we verily are driven and confined as guiltie and condemned persons unto the fur∣thest parts of the earth: and those who are most leife and deere unto us shall bee slaves, enthralled againe unto the Alemans; those, I say, whom after mortall foughten fields we have freed from their first captivitie. Which script being brought unto the Court and read, Iulian considering their reasonable complaints, commaunded them with their whole families to goe into the East, graunting them a warrant to take up post∣horses and waggons. And when doubt was made a long time which way they should journey, thought good it was (and that through the motion of Decentius the Notarie) that the folke should passe along by Paris, where Caesar yet abode, as not removed yet any whether. And so they did indeed.

CHAP. IIII. Iulian endevoureth to satisfie the desire of Constantius. But the captaines and souldiors breaking out into a mutinie, take armes, and with lowd voice salute Iulianus by the style of Augustus, yea, and force him to assent thereto, and accept of a diademe set upon his head.

NOw as the same approched, and were comming, the prince met them in the places and villages neere the cities side, and (as his manner was) by commending those whom he knew, & putting every one in mind to doe valiantly, with mild words he animated them to goe cheereful∣ly unto the Emperour, whose power was very ample and large; where also they should get most condigne rewards for their travailes and paines. And the more honourably to entreat them that were thus to depart so great a way from him, hee invited the chiefe and principall of them to a feast, and willed them confidently to preferre what lawfull petition they could readily thinke of, wherein he might plea∣sure them. Who being thus liberally entertained, tooke their leave of him, male∣content and very sorrowfull, in regard of a twofold griefe; for that a certaine un∣kind fortune thus severed them both from so temperate a governour, and also from their native soyle. And thus possessed with this anxietie, they retyred unto their usuall campe. No sooner began it to bee night, but they brake out into an open brawle: and now when they were once set on, and their blouds up, according as every man found himselfe aggreeved with the unexpected occurrent, they take weapon in hand: and so with a mightie noyse, to the palace they all went, and ha∣ving compassed it round about, so as no man could escape them and get away, with hideous and terrible clamours they cried unto Iulianus, by the name of Au∣gustus, urging him with all speed to come forth unto them: but beeing compelled to stay untill it was day-light, they forced him at length to goe forth. Whom when they saw, iterating the same great noyse and shout, with a most firme and settled consent they styled him Augustus: and he for his part upon a resolute and groun∣ded mind withstood them all and some; one while shewing himselfe to be wroth and highly displeased; otherwhiles stretching forth his hands, requesting and be∣seeching them, That after so many most happie and fortunate victories, no unde∣cent and unseemely part should be committed, nor any unseasonable rashnesse and breaking out rayse matter and cause of discord. And when in the end by mild speeches he had appeased their tumult, thus much moreover he added and sayd: Let your angrie mood, I pray you, cease for a while: without dissention or seditious see∣king of alteration, that which yee demaund shall easily be obtained. For as much as yee are possessed thus with the sweetnesse of your native countrey, and feare to go into strange lands which yee are not acquainted with, returne yee now even out of hand unto your owne home: see you shall nothing beyond the Alpes, because it is displeasant unto you: and hereof I will assoyle you by a competent satisfaction before the Emperour, a prince capable of reason and most prudent withall. After these words they set up a lowd crie on all sides, God save Augustus: nathelesse, when with one uniforme zeale and heat of affection they all preassed on him still, and that with an exceeding earnest noyse, mixed with reprochfull and reviling tearmes, Caesar was enforced to condiscend unto them. And so being set upon a footmans shield, and borne up aloft in sight, and with great silence of the people declared Augustus, hee was willed to bring

forth a white band or diademe: and when he said that he never had any, they cal∣led for one of his wives, that she used about her necke or head: but because he af∣firmed, That it was not meet he should be fitted at his first entrance into the Em∣pire with any womans ornament or attire, they sought for an horse trapping, to the end, that being handsomely adorned therewith, he might make some shew yet, ob∣scure though it were, of higher authoritie. But when he still avouched, that it also was but base and unseemely, one named Maurus (who afterwards being a Comes or captaine of the discoverers in espiall, received a foile in fight at the straits of Suc∣ci, at this time serving in qualitie of a pikeman) tooke the collar from about his owne necke, which he wore as an ^b Ensigne bearer, and boldly did it upon Iulians head: who being thus driven to an extremitie, and perceiving now that hee could not avoid present danger, if he persevered still to make resistance, promised unto them all throughout five ^c aurei apeece, and every one a pound of silver besides. These matters thus passed, he no lesse troubled with care than before, and foresee∣ing with quicke conceit what might afterwards come hereof, neither wore the d••a∣deme, nor durst go abroad any where, ne yet negotiate any serious businesses, were they never so urgent. But whiles Iulianus (affrighted with sundrie accidents) be∣tooke him thus to a privat retyrednesse, a certaine Decurie of the Palace (which is a degree and place of dignitie) stepping a great pace to the Petulantes and Celtae, where they quartered, crieth out in turbulent manner: Oh shamefull indignitie, that he who but the day before was by their iudgement declared Augustus and Emperor should now be secretly murthered. No sooner was knowledge taken hereof, but the soul∣diors, who were moved alike, as well with what they knew not, as what they knew, some brandishing and shaking their casting-weapons, others ready to fight with na∣ked swords in hand, running forth here and there divers waies (as the manner is in a suddaine uprore) in all hast gat unto the princes traine: at which excessive noyse the Warders and Tribunes being astonied, and by name Excubitor, captaine of the guard in ordinarie, fearing also some trecherie of mutable and unconstant souldi∣ors, dispersed themselves for feare of suddaine death, and slipt out of sight. How∣beit, the souldiors when they saw all was well and husht, stood for a while armed as they were, quiet: and being demanded, What was the cause of this unadvised and suddain hurlyburly, after long silence, and making some doubt of their [new] Em∣perours life, they departed not before they were sent for into the Consistorie, and had seene him at the full gloriously dight in his imperiall robes. Notwithstanding, when these newes were heard abroad, they also, who I said were gone before un∣fore under the leading of Sintula, being now secure and past feare, returned toge∣gether with him unto Paris: and upon an edict or proclamation made, that the morning next following they should all meet in the open plaine field, the prince beeing come forth with greater port and pompe than usually, mounted up to the Tribunall, environed about with Ensignes, as well the maine Eagle standards, as banners and guidons, as also guarded with whole squadrons of armed Cohorts. And after hee had paused a time, whiles from aloft hee beheld the countenances of them there present, when he perceived them all chearefull and joyous, with plaine and simple words (to the end he might bee understood) as it were with so many trumpets, he incensed them in this wise.

CHAP. V. The Oration of Iulianus as touching the appointment of militarie rewards. Also with what words, the night before that day wherein he was declared Emperour, he was by the publicke Genius of the State saluted.

THe difficultie of this present businesse doth require and instantly crave, (right valiant and trustie protectors both of my person and of the Common-wealth, who together with me have many a time put your lives in danger for the state of the Provinces) for as much as yee have in a setled iudgement advaunced your Caesar to the highest pitch of all honours and dignities, in few words summarily to deliver, how there may be devised iust and wise remedies to cure and salve this chaunge of the world with us. While I was a very youth, scarce come to my growth, being as ye well know, clad in purple, and made Caesar onely for a shew, yet by the providence of the heavenly power commended to your protection and tuition, I never was put from my settled purpose of leading an upright and honest life, in all painefull labours seene together with you: what time as having put to rout the confidence of bold nations, after cities destroyed, and infi∣nite thousands of men slaine, those few remaine which were left behind halfe broken and unsound, infinite calamities still overran. And needlesse I thinke it to rehearse, how of∣ten in the hard Winter, and bitter cold weather, at which time both lands and seas are ex∣exempt from warfare, we repelled the Alemans, a nation untamed before time, with no small detriment and losse of their forces. And verily for this one thing, it is not meet that I should either over-passe or conceale it, namely, that when neere unto Argentoratum that most blessed day shone, which in some sort brought with it perpetuall libertie unto the Gaules, whiles I rode to and fro through the pikes and among the arrowes and darts where they flew thickest, ye throughly grounded, what with vigorous courage, and what by long experience, vanquished your enemies, that suddainely brake in and overflowed all in man∣ner of swelling and swift land flouds, and them either layd on the bare ground by dint of sword, or else drowned in the deepe channell of the river; and that with few of our men left dead behind us, whose funerals we honourably kept, rather with solemne prayses of them, than any mournefull sorrow of ours. After which exploits so great and so renow∣med, posteritie, I suppose, will not keepe silence (as touching your good deserts of the Com∣mon-wealth) in all nations, if whom yee have fully adorned with so high a title of maie∣stie, ye vouchsafe to defend by your vertue and gravitie, in case any adverse fortune should assaile me. Now to the end there might be a sound course holden in our affaires, and that the rewards of valorous men may attend upon them without all corruption, and no secret ambition or indirect seeking after promotions catch them up beforehand, this under the re∣verend presence of your counsell and assembly I determine and set downe; That neither any civile Iudge nor martiall commaunder shall be preferred to higher degree, through the helpe of aught else but his owne worth and good desert, neither shall he who otherwise will presume to be a suiter for any, goe his wayes without disgrace and shame. The inferior souldiors beneath, encouraged with this confidence of greater hopes, as who had beene a long time kept fasting for having any dignities or rewards, smiting their bucklers with their javelines, rose up with a mightie noise, and with one voice (in manner) and accord gave a favorable assent to his speeches and good beginnings: and immediately for feare there might be never so little time given to trouble this

so considerat and well advised dispose, in the behalfe of the Atthuarij, the Petulan∣tes and Celtae besought, they might be sent to governe what provinces it pleased him: which when they could not obtaine, they departed neither offended nor ill appaied. Howbeit, that very night which went next before the day wherein hee was declared Augustus, as himselfe now Emperour reported to those were next a∣bout him and more inward with him, in his sleepe there appeared one unto him in that shape and forme, as the publicke ^d Genius or Angell useth to bee portrayed, who said by way of chiding, these words unto him: Iulian, long since have I in se∣cret manner duly observed and kept the entrie of thy house, desirous to encrease thy dig∣nitie, and divers times gone my wayes as reiected. But if I bee not at this time received and admitted, namely, when the iudgements of so many agree in one, goe I will as for∣lorne and sorrowfull: howbeit, take this with thee, and set it deepely to thy heart, That I will no longer dwell with thee.

CHAP. VI. The king of the Persians, whiles Constantius abode farre off, invadeth Mesopotamia, forceth the citie Singara, hewed in pieces two Romane legions, and carried the rest as well citizens as souldiors away unto the furthest parts of Persis.

WHiles these things were earnestly a doing in Gaule, that cruell king of the Persians, burning in hote desire (kindled first by Antonine, and now redoubled by the comming of Craugasius) to bee Lord of all Mesopotamia, whiles Constantius abode farre off with his armie; af∣ter he had augmented his armed forces, and passed (after his usuall manner) over Tygris, setteth in hand to assault Singara, a citie very well fortified both with souldiors and all things else necessarie and requisit, as they deemed, who had the government of those countries. The defenders of which place, after they had espied the enemie a great way off, quickly shut their gates, and with stout and courageous hearts ran to and fro along the turrets and battlements, gathering to∣gether great stones and warlike engines to discharge upon them: and thus having made all readie beforehand, they stood all in armour, prest to repell the multitude of their enemies, if they attempted to climbe the wals. The king therefore being come, when by the mediation of his nobles and captaines admitted to approch neere, hee might not by a gentle and mild parle persuade the defendants to yeeld unto his pleasure, both gave them a whole dayes respite, and in the next morning betimes by breake of day setting up a signall of a fire-red banner, assayled was the citie on every side, whiles some brought skaling ladders, others planted their en∣gines, and the most part defended with a fence of timber and hurdles before them, as also with penthouses over their heads, sought wayes to undermine the founda∣tions of the wall. Against these devises the townesmen standing above upon their high bulwarkes and munitions, with stones and all sorts of casting-darts afarre off, repelled those who venturously and proudly presumed to put themselves forward within the reach of shot. Thus continued they fighting for certaine daies together with doubtfull event, and many a man on both sides lost his life, and as many were wounded. At the last, when the skirmish was very hot, and evening now came on, one exceeding strong Ram among other engines was brought forward, which with pushes thick & threefold butted upon that round tower, at which in the for∣mer siege, I said, the citie by a breach was layed open. Vnto which tower all the

multitude came to rescue, where they fought most closely. There might a man have seene firebrands, burning torches and fierie darts flying every way for to burn this mischievous engine, as it approched neere, neither gave over the thicke shot of arrowes and bullets of either side. But the sharpe pointed head of the said Ram went beyond all the devices against it, entering and piercing into the joynts of the stones new layed, and as yet by reason of moisture weake and feeble. But while the fight continued still with fire and sword, the tower aforesaid fell downe, wher∣by way was made into the citie, and the place disfurnished of defendants, whome the great danger so imminent had scattered: wherupon whole troupes and bands of Persians setting up a yelling outcrie, filled all parts of the towne, whiles there was none to restraine them; and after some few slaine, and those pell mell one with another, all the rest by commaundement of king Sapor were taken alive and carried away into the furthest countries of Persia. Now, there were two legions in garri∣son for defence of this citie, to wit, ^e Prima Flavia, and ^f Prima Parthica, besides many homelings and naturall inhabitants, together with auxillarie horsemen, whose hap was by reason of this suddaine danger to be shut within, who all, as I said, were led with their hands bound, whiles none of our men helped them. For the greater part of our armie lay in the field encamped for the defence of Nisibis, a citie very farre distant from it: and otherwise, never could any man so much as in old time succour Singara when it was in distresse, by reason that all the places there round about for want of water be dried up. And albeit antiquitie built this fort in a very fit and convenient place for the discoverie of adverse and suddaine trou∣bles, yet it turned alwayes to the detriment of the Romanes, as being sundry times surprized and taken with the losse of the defendants thereof.

CHAP. VII. Sapor king of Persia setteth upon Bezabde, otherwise called Phoenicha, and with great violence assaulteth it.

AFter the racing therefore of this towne, the king in wisedome and poli∣cie avoiding Nisibis, as one ywis well remembring what hurts he had there many times sustained, tooke the right hand way, marching by crooked and winding journeyes, minding either by force, or with win∣ning unto him the garrison defendants by sweet promises to recover Bezabde, which the auncient founders tearmed also Phoenicha, a very strong fort, situate upon a pretie high hill, and bending toward the bankes of Tygris, and where the places be either suspected or low, fenced with a double wall. For the defence of this piece were three legions deputed, Secunda ^g Flavia, Secunda ^h Armeniaca, and likewise Parthica ⁱ Secunda, together with many Zabdicene archers, in whose ground being at the same time under our subjection, stood this towne. At the first brunt therefore, the king in person accompanied with a troupe of horsemen glitte∣ring in their complete harneis, being himselfe mounted higher than all the rest, ri∣ding about the circuit of the bulwarkes and fortifications, approched venturously to the very brim and edge of the trenches: and albeit he was assayled with shot of balists that missed not their marke, and with arrowes flying thicke, yet by reason hee was under a good armour of proofe, and the same wrought in manner of a roufe or Tortoise-shell, he went away without taking harme. Howbeit, for all this, sequestring and setting apart his anger for that time, he sent, as his manner was, his

heraulds, by whome hee gently exhorted the besieged, That they would looke unto their lives and other hopes, and by yeelding in time, raise the siege; and setting open the gates, goe forth in humble manner, and present themselves unto the conqueror of all na∣tions. These heraulds adventured to approch very neere, but in this regard the de∣fendants of the wals forbare them, because they brought with them close by their sides certaine gentlemen freeborne of their acquaintance, taken prisoners in Sin∣gara: for in a pitifull respect of them, no man flung a dart, nor made any answer as touching peace. Then after a cessation of armes graunted for one whole day and night, before it was daylight the next morrow, the Persians all at once setting fierce∣ly upon the rampier, gave out cruell threats, and with a terrible noyse comming boldly to the very walls, preassed hard upon the townesmen, who with great force resisted them: whereby most of the Parthians were sore hurt, for that some of them carrying ladders, and others holding out before them hurdles of oysiers, went as it were blindly forward within shot, neither escaped our men without hurt: for the arrowes flying thicke like hayle, went through them as they stood close together. Now, after the Sunne was set, they departed on both parts with equall losle: and toward the next morning, fought much more eagrely than before, whiles the trumpets sounded from the one side and the other, neither was there lesse flaughter seene on either hand, fighting as they did most obstinately on both sides.

CHAP. VIII. Sapor reiecting the admonitions of a Christian bishop, by force winneth the besie∣ged citie, fareth cruelly against the townesmen: and having given the attempt upon Virta, a most strong fenced citie, and relinqui∣shed this vaine enterprise, at length departeth.

BVt the day following, when a truce by common assent after manyfold travaile and paines taken was graunted, what time as a great terror was presented round about the walls, and the Persians feared no lesse, a Christian bishop shewed by certaine signes of gesture and by becke∣ning, that he was willing to goe foorth, and upon faithfull promise of returne in safe conduct, he came as farre as to the kings pavilions: where after leave given to speake his mind, in a mild manner of speech he persuaded with the Persians to de∣part home, now that both parts had received in common lamentable losses, saying withall, that greater sorrowes yet were to bee feared which happily would come unto them. But hee stood discoursing of these and such like points in vaine: such was the fell and outrageous furie of the king, who withstood the motion, & stoutly swore, That he would not depart before the towne and fortifications about it were destroyed: yet was the bishop somewhat suspected (untruly, as I thinke, though commonly it was by many men vouched) That in secret conference and talke hee informed Sapor what parts of the wall he should assault, as weake within-forth and easie to be battered. And this seemed to carrie some likelyhood with it, for that af∣terwards the enemies engines were evidently seene with a great shout and joyous leaping of the assaylants to play lustily upon the undefensible places, and such as for very age and rottennesse began to leane and were readie to fall, as if some that knew the inward secrets of the citie, had given direction. And albeit the narrow wayes yeelded difficult accesse unto the walls, and the Rams fitted for batterie were hardly set forward, for feare of stones throwne by hand, and arrow-shot that

kept them off, yet ceased not eyther the brakes or scorpions, wherof these dischar∣ged stones thicke, the other sent out darts as fast, and together with them baskets and panniers burning, besmeared over with pitch and ^k Bitumen: by the conti∣nuall fall whereof, comming still downe the hill, the sayd engines of artillerie stucke fast, as fixed and rooted deepe within ground; and beeing thus set, fierie darts and burning linkes together throwne lustily with a good arme and star hand, set them on a light fire. But although the case stood thus, and many on both sides were slaine, yet the assaylants were more hotely set to rase and destroy the towne, (both by naturall situation strong, and also by great workemanship of mans hand fortified) ere the middest of Winter; as being persuaded, that the kings rage would not be allayed before. And therefore, neither the effusion of much bloud, nor the number of them that were shot into the bodie and deadly wounded, could re∣clayme the rest from like boldnesse. But when they had a long time maintained fight with much hurt and mischiefe gotten thereby, at length they exposed them∣selves to extreame and present dangers: and as they drave their Rammes, what with the weightie stones comming thicke from the wals, and what with sundrie fireworkes, debarred they were from going forward. Howbeit, one Ram higher than his fellowes, covered over with wet bulls hides, and therefore in lesse danger of mishap by flames or darts, going before all, with much straining and endevour crept to the wall, and so with his mightie sharpe pointed head entring betweene the joints of the stones, and having losened the same, overthrew a tower: which bee∣ing fallen with a wonderfull crashing noyse, they also who stood upon it, with so suddain a ruine thereof were throwne downe, and so eyther breaking their bones, or overwhelmed with rubbish, died sundry deaths, and those unlooked for: thus the armed multitude having found a more safe ascent, rushed in. Then, as the hi∣deous noyse which the Persians made, yelling and crying out on every side, thun∣dered and resounded in the fearefull eares of the townesmen thus over-matched, the fight grew hote and more close within the wals, whiles our enemies in squa∣drons fought at hand, considering that standing with their bodies one against ano∣ther thicke, and having their swords drawne on both sides, there was not one spared that stood in the way. In conclusion, the besieged resisting a long time with much adoe, and to the mischiefe of both sides, were at length with the pressing hard of the huge multitude disranked and scattered by heapes: after which, the angry ene∣mies put to sword whomsoever they could find, the small babes were plucked from their mothers bosomes, the mothers also themselves killed, and no man regarded what he did. And yet in the meane time this bloudie nation more greedie of pil∣lage than of carnage, loaden with all kind of rich spoyles, and leading away an ex∣ceeding great number of prisoners, went backe with much rejoycing to their tents. The king for all he was puffed up with extraordinarie joy, as one who a long time burned in desire to win Phaenicha, a strong fenced piece, and of great importance, departed not thence, before that hee had right strongly repayred that part of the wall which was shattered, layed up there in store plentie of victuals, and bestowed in it a garrison of armed men, such as for their birth were of good note, and for skill in martiall feats renowmed. For he feared (as it fell out indeed) least the Ro∣manes taking to the heart the losse of such mightie strong holds, would addresse themselves by maine force to besiege the same. Vaunting therefore, and bearing himselfe more big, and fed with hope to win whatsoever he could go in hand with, after he had surprized and taken in other meaner piles, he determined to set upon

Virta, a sort of great antiquitie: insomuch, as it is thought to have beene built by Alexander king of Macedonia, seated verily in the utmost part of Mesopotamia, but encircled with wals as it were winding in and out, and pointed with hornes, and by reason of sundry devices and meanes made unaccessable. Which when he assayed by all the skill and art he had, one while alluring the defendants with goodly promises, otherwhiles threatening to hang and crucifie them: sundry times going in hand to raise up bankes and mounts, and bringing engines against it, per∣taining to a siege, after more wounds and losses received than given, he gave over his vaine enterprise, and in the end departed. These were the acts atchieved that yeare betweene Tygris and Euphrates. Which when Constantius had learned by the relation of many messengers, fearing the Parthian expeditions whiles he win∣tered in Constantinople, with greater care he furnished the frontiers with all war∣licke provision; setting also armour together and new trained souldiors, strengthe∣ning likewise the legions with supplies of strong young men; for that the set bat∣tailes of legionarie souldiors oftentimes sped well in all the warres and services of the East parts: besides all this, he sought for the Scythians aid either for money or love, that in the mid Spring setting forth on his journey out of Thracia, he might forthwith seize into his hands the places that were suspected.

CHAP. IX. Iulianus in good regard of himselfe, by a long Epistle endevoureth to pacifie the mind of Constantius.

MEane while Iulian having placed his wintering harbour at Paris, much fearing what would be the end of these begun enterprises, was sore per∣plexed, as who by casting and tossing many matters in his mind, consi∣dered, That Constantius would in no wise like of his doings, in whose conceit and eye he was reputed as a vile, base, and contemptible person. Advising well there∣fore the fearefull beginnings of all innovations and changes in the state of an Em∣pire, he resolved to send unto him embassadours, who should declare what occur∣rents had happened: and withall he dispatched letters agreeable unto them, wher∣in more plainely he advertised and shewed, what was done, and what ought after∣wards to be done: although he supposed that hee had heard all, a good while be∣fore, by the report of Decentius long since returned, as also by gentlemen of the Chamber newly come againe backe out of Gaule, who had carried unto Caesar certaine solemne presents. And albeit he was not unwilling hereunto, yet wrote he nothing in arrogant tearmes, least he might be thought suddainely to have re∣volted. Now the tenour of his letters went in this wise. My faithfull allegeance, according to my purpose, no lesse in my accustomed behaviour than in covenants of agree∣ments, I verily for my part, carrying alwayes one and the same mind, have for the time hitherto kept and performed, as by many effectuall proofes hath evidently appeared. And ever since that you created me Caesar, and exposed me to the terrible noise of bat∣tailes contenting my selfe with the place of commaund wherein I was set, like a tru∣stie servitour and officer, filled your eares evermore with newes of prosperous atchieve∣ments performed to my wish and hearts desire, attributing nothing at all to mine owne perils and adventures; whereas by dayly examples and continuall proofes it is well knowne, that where the Germanes were spred abroad and intermingled every where, I was in painefull travailes, of all others seene first, and in my repose and refection last.

But if I may with your good leave say so much, in case there be any chaunge and alterati∣on now (as you thinke there is) hence it commeth: The souldiors spending their yeares in many warres, and those right dangerous, without reaping any fruit of their service, effe∣cted that in tumultuous manner at length, which long since they determined, as impatient to serve under a Commaunder in a second place; seeing that by a Caesar they could have no recompence made for their long labour, and many victories. To whose anger, for that they neither found augmentation of dignities, nor touched their yearely wages, this also is fallen out unlooked for to aggravate the matter, That beeing men acquainted with cold and frozen countries, they were commaunded to come to the utmost parts of the East world, and drawne away needie and bare, apart from their wives and children. Where∣upon they being enraged above their wonted manner, in the night assembled themselves together, and beset the palace with loud voices, and those often reiterated, styling Iulian by the name of Augustus. This set me in a trembling, I confesse, and I withdrew my selfe: and thus so long as I could keepe me out of the way, I sought to save my selfe with holding my peace and hiding my head. But when they would give me no time nor respite to consi∣der upon the matter, fenced (as I may so say) with the wall of a free and pure heart, I went forth and stood in the sight of them all, supposing this their tumultuous rising might ey∣ther by authoritie of countenance or gentle words be allayed. Howbeit, they grew into a wonderfull heat, and went so farre, as that because I assayed to overcome their stubborne obstinacie by entreatie, they instantly menaced death, as it seemed by their violent assaults following one in the necke of another. In the end being overcome, and reasoning thus with mine owne selfe, that if I were once stabbed, some other perhaps willingly ynough would be declared prince, I gave my assent, yet hoping still to assuage this their franticke and ar∣med violence. This is the very order and manner of my proceedings, which I beseech you to entertaine with a peaceable and gentle construction. Neither thinke that any thing hath beene done otherwise, nor admit malicious persons and evill willers readie to whisper in your eares pernicious matters: such I meane, as are wont for their owne gaine and ad∣vantage to make debate and variance betweene princes: but putting aside flatterie, the ve∣ry nourice of vices, set your mind upon iustice, the most excellent vertue of all others, and receive unfainedly and bona fide these equall conditions which I propose vnto you: reaso∣ning and reckoning thus in your mind, That these things are behoofefull to the Romane state and to us, who in neerenesse of bloud and in the height of supreme fortune are con∣ioined. And (pardon me I pray you) I desire not so much that such things should be done which with reason are required, as that profitable and honest courses should of you be ap∣proved: whose commaundements even henceforth still I purpose right willingly to em∣brace, such I meane as need requireth to be performed. To be short, I will allow unto you Spanish horses for your chariot, and chosen piked young men to be entermingled among your Gentiles and Scutarij, some of them being a race from the barbarous nations discen∣ded on this side Rhene, or at leastwise out of those that yeeld themselves and revolt to our side: and this promise I to doe, not onely in a thankfull mind, but also with willing heart, so long as I live. For Praefects of the Praetorium, you shall of your clemencie give unto us those who for their equitie and deserts are knowne worthie of the place. The residue, as well ordinarie civile Iudges, as messengers of warre affaires, likewise Pentioners to guard my person, who are to be promoted, meet it is they be left unto my will and pleasure. For a folly it were (where as it may be prevented before hand) to admit those to the guard of an Emperours person, whose behaviour, whose mind and affection is not knowne. This one thing verily I may be bold without all doubt to avouch, The Gaules having beene with long troubles and most grievous misfortunes vexed, neither will of their owne accord, nor

can by compulsion send young souldiors into strange and remote countries, least if their youth being utterly spent, they be afflicted anew; and calling to remembrance, as they do, what is past, in a desperate feare of dangers hanging over their heads, be readie to perish. Neither will it be convenient, that from hence aid souldiors should be sent for to oppose a∣gainst Parthian nations, considering that as yet the violent rodes and invasions of their barbarous enemies be not stopped: and (if you will abide the truth to be spoken) these pro∣vinces here being afflicted with continuall troubles and calamities, have need themselves of forraine helpes, and those right strong and valorous. These things by way of exhorta∣tion (to the good, as I deeme it, of the state) have I written, requiring and requesting the same to be put in execution. For well I wote (that I may speake nothing prowdly, according to an imperiall place) well I wote I say, what adverse and wofull cases of the Common∣wealth, when it was in manner remedilesse and given as lost for ever, the concord of princes yeelding by turnes one unto another, hath reduced into better tearmes; considering it is evident by the example of our auncestors, That rulers when they thinke of these and such like courses, find in some sort the way to lead a fortunat and blessed life, and so com∣mend a most pleasant remembrance of themselves unto posteritie and future times for ever.

CHAP. X. Constantius taking it to the heart that the name of Augustus was conferred upon Iulia∣nus, plotteth many things that take no effect. But Iulian walking warily, af∣ter he had subdued the Frankes called Atthuarij, returneth to Vienna, there to Winter.

WIth these missives he jointly sent others of more secret credence to be presented closely unto Constantius, and those were penned in an objurgatorie and biting style: the tenour whereof, neyther might I search out, nor if I might, became it mee to publish a∣broad. Now, for the performance of that office of embassage, were chosen grave persons, to wit, Pentadius master of the offices, and Eutherius, then his high Chamberlain; who after they had delivered the letters, were to report, without concealing of aught what they saw, and confidently to deale, about the order of the future affaires. Among other things, the envie of these new begun enterprises of Iulian, was aggravated and made much more by the departure of Florentius the Praefect, who praesaging the troubles that would a∣rise by the abovesaid sending for souldiors (as it was commonly spoken) of purpose was departed to Vienna, pretending for his excuse, In regard there was such want of victuals, that he and Caesar were parted, whom in truth he dreaded, for that hee had oftentimes very hardly entreated him. And afterwards, when he understood that hee was mounted to the imperiall throne, having little hope or none at all of life, became very fearefull, and now that he was farre removed, delivered himselfe from the dangers that he doubted: and leaving all his neerest friends and kinsfolke behind him, went aside, and by soft journeyes came unto Constantius: and to shew himselfe lyable to no fault, many imputations he charged upon Iulian as a traytor to the State. After whose departure, Iulian considering well and wisely of the mat∣ter, willing also it should be knowne, that he had spared him when he was present; gave commaundement, That his wife, his children, and those whom he held dea∣rest, together with all his goods not once touched or diminished, should returne in

safetie to the East parts, allowing them to take the benefit of the publicke post-hor∣ses and waggons. And the said embassadours with no lesse diligence following after, carrying with them those letters and instructions, as I have before said, and still minding their wayfare, when they came to Iudges and rulers of higher place, were indirectly stayed & detained: who after they had endured long & chargeable abode through Italie and Illyricum, at length crossed over Bosphorus, and travai∣ling forward with easie journies, they found Constantius making his abode as then at Caesarea in Cappadocia, a place before time named Mazaca, a citie of good im∣portance, and well frequented, situate at the foot of the mountaine Argeus: who beeing admitted into the presence, by permission graunted unto them delivered their missives. No sooner were they read, but the Emperour grew into choler and indignation beyond his usuall manner, and looking so awrie upon them, that they feared death, he commaunded them to goe forth, and could not abide afterwards eyther to move question unto them, or once to heare them speake. Howbeit, in as great a heat as hee was strucken into, yet hee stood in a doubtfull mammering, Whether he should command those forces wherein hee trusted, to march against the Persians, or against Iulian? And sticking thus a long time, after he had weighed sundrie counsels, hee gave eare to the advice of some that persuaded him to that which was good, and so proclaimed his journey Eastward. Yet for all his angrie mood, soone after he both dismissed the embassadours aforesaid, and also appoin∣ted Leonas his Quaestor to ride with all speed into Gaule, with letters also written unto Iulian, affirming, that he nothing liked of this new change and alteration, but charging him (if hee regarded the safetie of his owne person and of his neerest friends) to lay downe his swelling pride and vanitie, and to containe himselfe with∣in the power and government of a Caesar. And that the feare of what he menaced might the sooner induce him thereto, as if he presumed and bare himselfe highly of his great forces, he promoted Nebridius, then Quaestor of the said Caesar in the rowme of Florentius, to be Praefectus Praetorio, and Foelix the Notarie, he made master of the offices, and preferred some other officers. For advanced he had Gu∣moharius the successor of Lupicinus to be ^l master of the Armour, before any such matter was knowne. Leonas therefore being entred into Paris, was received as an honourable and prudent personage; and the morrow after, when the prince was gone out into the field with a multitude as well of armed souldiors as common ci∣tizens, whom of purpose he had called together, commaunded he was to present his letters unto him, standing aloft in his Tribunall, that he might be seene from a∣bove. And after the scrow of the edict sent was unfolded, and begun to bee read from the beginning, when the reader came to the place containing thus much, That Constantius disallowing all that had beene done, iudged the power and authori∣tie of a Caesar to be sufficient for Iulian, there was on all sides set up a sound of terrible voices crying out in this note, God save Iulian Augustus, and according as the provincials, the souldiors, and authoritie of the Common-wealth hath decreed, which indeed is refreshed, but yet feareth new excursions and invasions still of barbarous ene∣mies, [So be it.] Which words being heard, Leonas with the letters of Iulian im∣porting the same, returned safe, and Nebridius alone was admitted to the Praefect∣ship: for so much Caesar also openly had sayd in his letter should stand with his good will and pleasure. As for the master of the Offices, he had a little before or∣dained Anatolius to be the man, who before time was in place to give answere unto requests, like as he had made other officers, according as he thought them meet for

his owne behoofe and safetie. And for as much as among these proceedings hee feared Lupicinus, though absent, and then making his abode in Britannie, a prowd minded man, and of a swelling nature: and for that hee had him in suspition and jealousie, that if he knew thus much beyond the seas, he would stirre up some mat∣ter of alteration and rebellion: a Notarie of his was sent to Bononia, for to ob∣serve and watch carefully, that no man might be suffered to passe over the narrow seas: By meanes of which prohibition, Lupicinus returned, before that he tooke a∣ny knowledge of these newes, and so was not able to raise any troubles. Howbeit Iulian a right joyous man now, in regard of his higher fortune and the confidence he had in his souldiors, because he would not wax luke warme, nor be reproved as one remisse, idle and doing nothing, after hee had dispatched embassadours unto Constantius, went foorth into the marches of Germania secunda: and having strengthened himselfe with all furniture and provision, which the businesse in hand required, drew neere to the towne Obtricensis, neere Mosa. And afterward having crossed over the Rhene, he suddainely overran the countrey of the Franks, whom they call Atthuarij, men of an unquiet spirit, and at the same time in very licentious manner raunging over the coasts of Gaule: whome when hee had sud∣dainely surprised (fearing no hostilitie, but exceeding secure, for that they could not remember that any prince had entered into their townes and territories, by reason of the difficultie of the stonie wayes that kept them off) he overcame with little ado: and after he had taken prisoners and slaine most of them, to the rest that remained, upon their earnest suit he graunted peace, in what conditions he would himselfe, supposing this to bee expedient for the neighbour borderers that were possessors and holders of land. From whence he returned with like celeritie by the said river: and diligently surveying the garrisons along the marches, & reforming what in them was amisse, hee came as farre as to the Rauraci: where having reco∣vered those places, which the barbarous enemies had in times past taken in and hol∣den as their owne, and fortified the same more carefully, he departed by the way of Besantio to Vienna, there to Winter.

CHAP. XI. Constantius having concluded a firme peace with the king of Armenia, assembled an armie, and besiegeth Bezabde: the wals whereof he laboureth in vaine to undermine and overthrow.

IN this sort went the affaires in Gaule: which while they had so prospe∣rous and safe successe, Constantius sent for Arsaces king of Armenia: whom after he had entertained most liberally, he forewarned and ex∣horted to persevere a faithfull friend to us: for hee understood, That the king of the Persians had oftentimes deceitfully, what with threats and what with craftie devices, beene in hand with him to cast off the societie of the Romans, and to combine with him. Who taking many an oath, That he could forgoe his own life before that he would change his mind, was highly rewarded: and so with the traine that he brought to accompanie him, returned into his realme, and never durst afterward breake his promise, as being obliged unto Constantius by a bond of many favours and pleasures done unto him; among which, this was the chiefe, that he had joyned unto him in marriage Olympias the daughter of Ablabius, some∣time Praefectus Praetorio, and the espoused wife of his brother Constans. After he

was dismissed, himselfe by the way of Melitina, a towne in Armenia the lesse, and by Lacotena and Samosata, passed over Euphrates, and came to Edessa. Where, when he had stayed a long time, expecting the companies of souldiors as they as∣sembled together from all parts, and waiting for plentifull provision of victuals, af∣ter the Autumnall Aequinox he went forth and came to Amida: the wall whereof when hee approched, and beheld round about, how it was full of ashes and dead embers, he shed teares and groned againe, to consider what calamities that wofull and miserable citie had endured. There Vrsulus, Treasurer to the State, who chan∣ced then to be in place, with griefe of heart cried out and said: Behold with what courage and valiant hearts are our cities defended by the souldiors, for the payment of whose wages, the wealth of the very Empire beginneth now to fayle. This so bitter a speech of his, the militarie multitude remembred afterwards at Chalcedon, and there rose up in a mutinie, to his destruction. From thence marching with thicke∣set squadrons, when he approched Bezabde, he pitched downe his tents: which being fenced all about with an high rampier and deepe ditches, riding a great way off about the circuit of the fortifications of the towne, he was informed by the re∣port of many, that the places were more strongly rebuilt, which before time the in∣jurie of time had decayed. And because he would omit nothing that of necessitie was to be provided, before the heat of fight, he sent certaine sage and wise men un∣to the defendants of the towne, to urge them by proposing a twofold condition, either to returne home into their owne countries, with the graunt of other mens goods without bloudshed; or else to become wholly subject unto the Romane Empire, where they should bee advaunced with dignities and rich rewards. But when they upon a naturall obstinacie and inbred resolution rejected this offer, as men being nobly descended & of high parentage, they addressed themselves with undergoing of extreame perils and paines against all the preparations that belong unto a siege: He therefore began to give an assault unto all parts of the towne, with his men marshalled in thicke rankes, and with sound of trumpets to incite their cou∣rage to the service: the valiant Romane souldior, for that the legions were gathered under sundrie defensive roufes of shields, going softly and safely forward, began to undermine the wals: and because all manner of casting-weapons were dischar∣ged upon them that came under the said wals, and thereby the said joynt frame of their shields loosened, they departed upon the sound of the retreat. Now, after their hearts were for one whole day refreshed, the third morning being more curi∣ously covered and defended, with lowd outcries every where on all sides they assai∣ed to skale and get up the wals. And albeit the defendants lay close within behind haire clothes, because they would not be seene of the enemie, yet so often as need required, they would stoutly thrust forth their armes, and with stones and darts as∣saile them that were beneath. And when the hurdle fences of oysiers went confi∣dently forward, and were at hand to touch the walls, then there fell from above great pipes and barrels, milstones, and pieces of broken pillars, with the exceeding weight whereof the fighting men below were overwhelmed: and thus their devi∣ces to cover them being violently driven asunder and laid gaping open, they made shift to get away with the utmost danger of their lives.

CHAP. XII. With new engins of batterie Constantius shaketh the walls of Amida, and with ma∣ny assaults redoubled, in sundry sorts wearieth as well his owne people, as the Persians besieged.

THe tenth day therefore, after the assault began, when our mens hope grew worse than it was, so that they were set all in heavinesse, thought good it was to bring over that huge frame of a Ram, which the Persi∣ans in times past, after they had by the batterie thereof rased Antiochia brought from thence, and left at Carras: which being on a sodain seene, and most artificially set together and fitted accordingly, daunted the hearts of the besieged so, as that they had fallen in manner to the last remedie of yeelding, but that they tooke heart againe, and prepared to oppose some meanes against this terrible and menacing engin. Neither after this gave our men over one jot to adventure rashly, or to advise politikely: For whiles this old Ram, beeing unjoynted and taken in peeces, for easier carriage, was a setting in order and readinesse, with all cunning and strength of man, notwithstanding the exceeding force and firme resolution of the defendants, the peeces of ordnance were still defended: neverthelesse with a number of stones and bullets sent out of slings on both sides, many were killed, and still the mounts and bulwarkes waxed greater, and quickly rose to a mightie height: so that the siege grew more fierce and hoter every day than other; and many of our men lost their lives in the place: for that, fighting in the sight of the Emperour in hope of rewards, and taking off their helmets from their heads, because they might the sooner be knowne, they were with the cunning shot of the enemies archers overthrowne: and therefore tending watch and ward both night and day they stood more wary on both parts, and did their devoir. And now by this time the Persians, seeing the banks & terraces brought up to a mightie height, and with∣all the huge ram aforesaid, after which there followed also other smaller engins of that kind, were stricken with a wonderful horror, and did what they possibly could with might and maine to burne them all: and albeit they ceased not to fling heaps and bals of wild-fire, and shoot fiery darts, yet they laboured in vaine; for that most of the timber peeces were covered all over with skins and hayre clothes throughly wet; others againe well smeared with alum, that the fire might glide off without doing harme. But the Romans bringing them forward with great force and valor, though with much difficutlie, yet defended and saved them: and in an earnest de∣sire they had to win the towne, they set nought by imminent and present dangers: and on the other side the defendants of the wals, when the greatest Ram above said came toward them, ready to shake downe the tower that stood against it, by a subtle deuise ensnared the yron front that it beareth out before (and in truth it resembleth a Rammes head) with long ropes on either side, and so held it fast, that by retur∣ning backe againe it should not gather new strength, nor be able with thicke jurres and pushes, forcibly to strike the walls to any purpose: and withall they powred downe scalding hot pitch. The engins also being advanced forward, stood along time carrying upon them huge stones, to batter the walls, and other casting wea∣pons. Now, when the mounts without were raysed still higher, the defendants fearing their destruction was at hand, unlesse they tooke the better heed, ran head∣long into a most bold and adventurous action: and in a sodaine sally, issuing by

numbers out at the gates, and setting upon the formost of our men, threw with all their might upon the Ram, fire-brands and yron buckets loden with fire. But after a skirmish valiantly performed with doubtfull fortune, most of them prevailing nought, were driven backe within the wals: and anon from the mounts which the Romans had erected, the same Persians as they stood upon their bulwarkes were assayled with arrowes, slings-shot, and fiery darts; which flying among the roofes and curtaines of the towers, for the most part went by, or glaunced in vaine, and did no hurt, for that there were some of purpose readie to quench them. And when on both sides the fighting men grew to be fewer, and the Persians were driven to utmost dispaire, but that they found better meanes, they eftsoons gave the attempt with greater care and diligence to sally out of their fortifications: and so the mul∣titude breaking suddenly forth, among our armed souldiers, some appointed there were of purpose, who carried greater store of fire than those before, and threw yron skuttles full of flaming fire upon the timber frames, stickes also and twigges, with other dry fewell, very apt to take fire. And for that the exceeding blacke clouds of smoake tooke away all sight, when the trumpet sounded the battaile, the legions in good array marched on a quicke pace; and as the heat of skirmish grew still by lit∣tle and little, by that time they came to buckle at hand-strokes, all the foresaid engines at once were on a light fire, and in manner burnt, save only that greater one than the rest, which, being halfe burnt, after the ropes were plucked away, that were cast upon it from the wals and held it fast, with much adoe, and by the forcible strai∣ning of strong men, was drawne forth of the fire. But when the darkenesse of the night made an end of the skirmish, our souldiers rested not long, but beeing refre∣shed with small food and short sleepe, they rose at the call of their captaines, and re∣moved their munitions far from the wall, providing to fight more close and short along the high bastiles or countermures, which now that they were finished over∣topped the walls: and that the defendants might easily be driven from off the wals, upon the very top of the said bastiles were planted two Balists, for feare of which it was verily thought, that not one of the enemies could so much as put up his head and looke out before him. These meanes being sufficiently provided, a little be∣fore the twy-light of the morning appeared, three battailons of our men in good array advancing, with the crests of their helmets bending forward in threatning wise, together with a number that carried ladders, attempted to giue an assault up∣on the wals: And now as the armor clattered, and the trumpets resounded, fighting on both sides joyntly with semblable heat and eagrenesse, they made a venturous conflict of it: which as it did spread still more and more, the Romans, perceiuing that the Persians hid their heads for feare of the engines of artillery placed upon the mounts, did beat upon the walls with the ram, and then with mattocks, pickaxes, yron crowes, and ladders, they approched: meane while on both sides flew the ca∣sting dartes thicke. But that which troubled and annoyed the Persians much more than all the rest, was the sundrie shot discharged from the Balists, running as it were through loope holes and grates from the bastiles newly raysed: Whereupon, sup∣posing now that they were come to the last cast, they ran resolutely upon the daun∣ger of death: and thus having parted betweene them the severall charges to fight upon the point of any extremitie that should happen, and leaving those behind that should keepe the walls, a strong companie of them secretly setting open a posterne gate, issued forth, with others following behind, that closely carried fire with them. And whiles the Romans one while presse hard upon them that reculed, another

while receive those that of themselves charge them, they that carried the fire pans creeping softly and stooping low by the ground, conveied light burning coles within the ioynts of one of the fabricks raised upon boughes of divers trees, reeds, and bundels of canes, which so soone as the drie fewell had caught fire, were burnt: but our souldiers, together with their peeces of ordnance untouched, were depar∣ted first in danger enough.

CHAP. XIII. Whiles Constantius determineth to abide there by it, there fall continual shewers of raine (foretold by a rain-bow; concerning which there is annexed a speculative discourse) and then followeth Winter: Fearing therefore a tumult of the angred souldiers, without effecting his purpose, he gets backe into Syria.

BVt so soone as the evening ended their fight, so that they departed on both sides to take some short repose, the Emperor distracting and turning himself unto sundrie counsels, considering that im∣portant reasons urged him longer stil to attēpt the destruction of Phaenicha, which fort, like an insoluble bar lay opposed against the enemies outrodes, and the late season of the yeare checked him, determined to stay yet there, & continue sleight skirmishes, thinking that the Persians, like haply to be distressed for want of victuals, would quit the place and be gone; which fel out otherwise than he supposed: For, when there was but small fighting, the ayre being moist, waterie clouds with fearefull darkenesse arose; and the ground with continuall rain became so drenched, that the clammie soft clay all that country over, standing upon a most fat turffe & soile, made a great trouble eve∣rie where: and beside all this, cracks of thunder, and flashes of lightning comming thicke one after another, mightily affrighted the timerous minds of men. Moreo∣ver, to increase their feare, there were apparitions seen continually of the rain-bow: which how it commeth usually to be shaped so, the laying open of the natural cau∣ses thereof will declare. The hot exhalations of the earth, and moist vapours ga∣thered round together into clouds, and from thence scattered into small sprinkling dewes, and by spreading of the sunne-beames made bright and glittering lye rol∣ling full against the verie round bodie of the sunne, and so do shape out the forme of a raine-bow, and the same winding with a spacious and large bent, be∣cause it openeth and stretcheth out here in our world, which the reasons in Natu∣rall Phylosophie place over the Hemisphaere. The first colour or shew whereof, as farre as mans eye doth behold and discerne, seemeth pale or yellowish, the second more yellowish or tawnie, the third red, the fourth purple, and the last compoun∣ded of blew and greene. And this temperature of mingled beautie, it carryeth, as our understandings here upon the earth do conceive, therfore, because the first part thereof is seene more thin and waterish, as sutable in colour to the aire round about it: the next following is tawnie, that is, of a deeper & brighter hue somewhat than the former yellow: the third red, for that being subject to the brightnesse of the sun, by the receit of the spirit or aire, it discoloureth and diminisheth his most pure re∣splendence glittering over against: the fourth therefore a purple colour, because as the thicke sprinkling dews through which it riseth glitter betweene, it casteth forth shining rayes and sheweth to our sight a colour cōming neere unto that of a flame:

which colour, as it spreadeth more abroad, turneth into blew and greene. Others are of opinion, That the forme of a raine-bow then appeareth to things here be∣neath in the world, when the beames of the sunne infused deepely into a thicke cloud carried up on high, have cast a cleere light into it: the which not finding is∣sue, winding round into it selfe, with much fretting and striking therupon, shineth, and those colours verily which come neerest unto white, it taketh from the Sunne that is aloft; but such as are greenish, from the resemblance of the cloud next over it; as usually it falleth out in the sea, where the waves be white that beat upon the shore and sea banks, but those farther within the sea, be without any mixture blew or azure. And because it is a signe of change of weather (as wee have said) namely after a cleere aire gathering heapes of clouds, or contrariwise, after thicke aire making a change to faire and pleasant weather, therefore we read often in Po∣ets, that Iris, i. the Rain-bow, is sent from heaven, when there is an alteration toward of the present state. There be many others, and those sundrie opinions, which now it were a superfluous thing to reckon up, considering that my narration hasteneth to returne whence it hath digressed. With these and such like objects the Emperor was tossed betweene hope and feare, whiles the Winter came on a pace, and grew to be hard, whiles he suspected also to be forelaid in those deserts and wild tracts; and withall, he feared likewise some mutinie of the souldiers that were disconten∣ted and angrie. Over and besides all this, it vexed his perplexed mind, that having now the doore set open (as it were) into a rich mans house, he was to returne, with∣out effecting his purpose, with emptie hand. For which causes, giving over his vaine enterprise, he returneth into Syria, minding to Winter in Antioch, after he had endured a labourious and most dangerous Summer, and the same a long time to be lamented. For, thus it fell out, as if some fatall constellation so ruled divers events, that evermore when Constantius himselfe in person warred with the Persi∣ans, some adverse and crosse fortune attended upon him: whereupon he wisht, if it might not otherwise be, to win by the conduct of his captaines; a thing that we remember sometimes hapned in deed.

Notes

• Bullen, or Bo∣logne.
• Richburrow, or Ripchester, neere Sandwich.
• London.
• or Cour.
• Am••la.
• Visicinus.
• or captaine.
• operiretur.
• Like as the moone in her con∣junction with the Sunne, which we call the Chaunge, hath an universall defect.
• Astronomers.
• Caput & cauda Draconis.
• from the Sunne.
• halfe a circle.
• of the Praeto∣rium.
• or Chauncellor.
• Sintulae.
• the Praefect.
• Imperatore, or Generall.
• or Counsell.
• Secretarie, or Chancellor afore∣said.
• Iulian.
• He meaneth Iulians Court.
• Iulian.
• pro Atthuarijs, a nation of the Frankes. O••tel. Some read here, pro Actuarijs, ••. for their Clerkes or Scribes: others per Atthuarios, or Actuarios, i. by their meanes and mediation.
• Singra. D. Atha∣nasio.
• or Iu••ta.
• in regard of so∣veraigne prehemi∣nence.
• ••. L L. chiefe Iustices.
• the Frith or stre••ghts of Con∣stantinople.
• Tisaria.
• Treasurer.
• Treasurer.
• Chancellour or Secretarie.
• Iulian.
• or Chauncellor.
• Bologne.
• Low Dutchland, or Netherlands.
• People about Basil.
• Besanson.
• Bosoch. Castaldo.
• Chalcidona. Soph Calcitin. Turcis.
• See the 22. booke, how he came to his death.
• to vvit, the mer∣cinarie garrison souldiors.
• or halfe part of the whole Sphae••e.
• Lutca.