The history of the world

CHAP. X. Of the expedition of CYRVS the younger.

§. I. The grounds of CYRVS his attempt against his brother. [unspec 10]

THE matters of Greece now standing vpon such termes, that no one Estate durst oppose it selfe against that of Lacaedemon; young Cyrus, brother to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, King of Persia, hauing in his fathers life time very carefully prosecuted the warre against Athens, did send his mes∣sengers to Sparta, requesting that their loue might ap∣peare no lesse to him, than that which he had shewed towards them in their dangerous warre against the [unspec 20] Athenians. To this request, being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Lace∣daemonians gaue a sutable answere, commanding their Admirall to performe vnto Cyrus all seruice that hee should require of him. If Cyrus had plainely discouered himselfe, and the Lacedae∣monians bent their whole power to his assistance, very like it is, that either the King∣dome of Persia should haue been the recompence of his deserts, or that he perishing in battaile, as after he did, the subuersion of that Empire had forth with ensued. But it pleased God, rather to shew vnto the Greekes the waies, which vnder the Macedo∣nian Enfignes, the victorious foot-steps of their posteritie should measure; and ope∣ning vnto them the riches, and withall the weakenesse of the Persian, to kindle in [unspec 30] them both desire and hope of that conquest, which he reserued to another genera∣tion; than to giue into their hands that mightie Kingdome, whose houre was not yet come. The loue which Parysatis, the Queene-Mother of Persia bare vnto 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her yonger sonne, being seconded by the earnest fauour of the people, and ready de∣sires of many principall men, had moued this yong Prince, in his fathers old age, to aspire after the succession. But being sent for by his Father (as hath before beene shewed) whose meaning was to curbe this ambitious youth; hee 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 brother Artaxerxes established so surely by the old Kings fauour, that it were not safe to attempt any meanes of displanting him, by whose disfauour, himself might easily lose the place of a Viceroy, which he held in Asia the lesse, and hardly bee [unspec 40] able to maintaine his owne life. The neerest neighbour to Cyrus of all the Kings Deputies in the lower Asia, was Tissaphernes, a man compounded of cowardise, tre∣cherie, craft, and all vices which accustomably branch out of these. This man ac∣companied Cyrus to his Father, vsing by the way all faire shewes of friendship, as to a Prince, for whom it might well be thought, that Queene Parysatis had obtained the inheritance of that mightie Empire. And it was very true, that Parysatis had v∣sed the best of her endeuour to that purpose, alleaging that (which in former ages had bin much auaileable to Xerxes, in the like disceptation with his elder brother) Artaxerxes was borne whilest his father was a priuate man, but Cyrus, when he was a crowned King. All which not sufficing; when the most that could bee obtained [unspec 50] for Cyrus, was the pardon of some presumptuous demeanour, and confirmation of his place in Lydia, and the parts adioyning: then did this Tissaphernes discouer his nature, and accuse his friend Cyrus to the new King Artaxerxes, of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dangerous trea∣son intended against his person. Vpon this accusation, whether true or false, very

easily 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Cyrus was arrested, and by the most vehement intreatie of his Mo∣ther very hardly deliuered, and sent back into his owne Prouince.

§. II. The preparations of CYRVS, and his first entrie into the Warre.

THe forme of gouernement which the Persian Lieutenants vsed in their seuerall Prouinces, was in many points almost Regall. For they made Warre and Peace, as they thought it meete, not onely for the Kings [unspec 10] behoofe, but for their owne reputation; vsually indeede with the Kings enemies, yet sometimes one with another: which was the more easily tolerated, because their owne heads were held only at the Kings plea∣sure, which caused them to frame all their doings to his will, whatsoeuer it were, or they could coniecture it to be. Cyrus therefore being settled in Lydia, began to con∣sider with himselfe, the interest that he had in the Kingdome; the small assurance of his brothers loue, held only by his Mothers intercession; the disgrace endured by his late imprisonment; and the meanes which he had by loue of his owne peo∣ple, and that good neighbourhood of the Lacedaemonians, whom he had bound vnto him, to obtaine the Crowne for himselfe. Neither was it expedient that he should [unspec 20] long sit idle, as waighting till occasion should present it selfe: but rather enterprise somewhat whilest yet his Mother liued, who could procure a good interpretation to all his actions, if they were no worse than only questionable. Hereupon he first beganne to quarrell with Tissapherues, and seized vpon many Townes of his iuris∣diction, annexing them to his owne Prouince; which displeased not Artaxerxes at all, who (besides that hee was of condition somewhat simple) being truly paid by Cyrus the accustomable Tributes out of those places, was well contented to see his brothers hot spirit exercised in priuate quarrels. But Tissaphernes, whose base con∣ditions were hated, & cowardise despised, although he durst not aduenture to take armes against Cyrus, yet perceiuing that the Milesians were about to giue vp them∣selues [unspec 30] into the hands of that yong Prince, as many other townes of the Ionians had done, thought by terrour to preserue his reputation, and keepe the Towne in his owne hands. Wherefore he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 many, and many he banished, who flying to Cy∣rus, were gently entertained, as bringing faire occasion to take armes, which was no small part of his desire. In leuying Souldiers he vsed great policie; for he took not only the men of his owne Prouince, or of the Countries adioyning, whose liues were readie at his will; but secretly he furnished some Graecian Captaines with mo∣ney, who being very good men of warre, entertained Souldiers therewith, some of them warring in Thrace, others in Thessalie, others elsewhere in Greece; but all of them ready to crosse the Seas, at the first call of Cyrus, till which time they had se∣cret [unspec 40] instructions to prolong their seuerall warres, that the Souldiers might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 held in continuall exercise, and readie in armes vpon the sudden. Cyrus hauing sent a power of men to besiege Miletus, forth with summoned these bands of the Greekes, who very readily came ouer to his assistance, being thirteene thousand very firme Souldiers, and able to make head (which is almost incredible) against the whole power of Artaxerxes. With this Armie, and that which he had leuied before, hee could very easily haue forced Miletus, and chased away Tissaphernes out of Asia the lesse: but his purpose was not so to lose time in small matters, that was to be im∣ploied in the accomplishment of higher designes. Pretending therefore that the Pisidians, a people of Asia the lesse, not subiect to the Persian, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 inuaded his Terri∣torie, [unspec 50] he raised the siege of Miletus, and with all speed marched Eastward, leauing Tissaphernes much amazed, who had no leisure to reioyce that Cyrus had left him to himselfe, when he considered, that so great an Army, and so strong, was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 leuied against the Rouers of Pisidia, but rather against the great King his Master. For which

〈◊〉〈◊〉 taking a band of fiue hundred horse, hee posted away to carrie tidings to the Court, of this great preparation.

§. III. How CYRVS tooke his iourney into the higher Asia, and came vp close to his Brother.

THe tumult which his comming brought was very great, and great the exclamations of the Queen Statira, against Parysatis, the Queene-Mo∣ther, [unspec 10] whom she called the Author and occasioner of the warre. But whilest the King in great feare was arming the high Countries in his defence, the danger hastned vpon him very fast. For Cyrus made great marches, hauing his numbers much increased, by the repaire of his Countrimen, though most strengthned by the accesse of seuē hundred Greeks, and of other foure hundred of the same Nation, who reuolted vnto him from the King. How terrible the Greekes were to the Barbarians, he found by triall in a Muster, which (to please the Queene of Cilicia, who had brought him aide) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 made in Phrygia; where the Greekes by his direction making offer of a charge vpon the rest of his Armie, which contained a hundred thousand men, the whole Campe (not perceiuing that this [unspec 20] was but a brauerie) fled a-maine, the victuallers and baggagers forsaking their cab∣bins, and running all away for very feare. This was to Cyrus a ioyfull spectacle, who knew very well, that his brother was followed by men of the same temper, and the more vnlikely to make resistance, because they were prest to the warre a∣gainst their will and dispositions, whereas his Armie was drawne a-long by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 affection and good will. Neuerthelesse he found it a very hard matter to perswade the Greekes to passe the Riuer of Euphrates. For the very length of the way which they had troden, wearied them with conceit of the tedious returne. Therefore he was driuen, being yet in Cilicia, to seeke excuses, telling them, that Abrocomas, one of the Kings principall Captaines, and his owne great enemy, lay by the Riuer, against [unspec 30] whom he requested them to assist him. By such deuices, and excessiue promise of reward, he brought them to Euphrates, where some of the Greekes considering, That whoso passed the Riuer first, should haue the most thankes, and might safely re∣turne if the rest should refuse to follow them, they entred the Foords, whereby were all finally perswaded to doe as some had begunne, and being allured by great hopes, they resolued to seeke out Artaxerxes, wheresoeuer he was to be found. The King in the meane time hauing raised an army of nine hundred thousand men, was not so confident vpon this huge multitude, as to aduenture them in triall of a plaine battaile. Abrocomas, who with three hundred thousand men, had vnder-taken to make good the Straights of Syria, which were very narrow, and fortified with a [unspec 40] strong wall, and other defences of nature, and art, which made the place to seeme impregnable, had quitted the passage, and retired himself toward the Kings forces, not daring to look Cyrus in the face, who despairing to finde any way by Land, had procured the Lacedaemonian fleete, by the benefit whereof to haue transported his Armie. I doe not finde that this cowardise of Abrocomas, or of his Souldiers, who arriued not at the Campe, till fiue daies were past after the battaile, receiued either punishment, or disgrace; for they, toward whom he with-drew himselfe, were all made of the same metall.

Therefore Artaxerxes was vpon the point of retiring to the vttermost bounds of his Kingdom, vntill by Teribazus, one of his Captaines, he was perswaded not to a∣bandon [unspec 50] so many goodly Prouinces to the Enemie, who would thereby haue gathe∣red addition of strength, and (which in the sharpe disputation of Title to a King∣dome is most auaileable) would haue growne superior in reputation. By such ad∣uice, the King resolued vpon meeting with his brother, who now began to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 se∣cure,

being fully perswaded, that Artaxerxes would neuer dare to abide him in the field. For the King hauing cast vp a Trench of almost fortie miles in length, about thirtie foot broad, and eighteene foote deepe, intended there to haue encamped: but his courage failing him, he abandoned that place, thinking nothing so safe, as to be farre distant from his enemies.

§. IIII. The battaile betweene CYRVS and ARTAXERXES.

THe Armie of Cyrus hauing ouercome many difficulties of euil waies, [unspec 10] and scarcitie of victuals, was much encouraged by perceiuing this great feare of Artaxerxes, & being past this trench, marched carelesly in great disorder, hauing bestowed their Armes in Carts, and vpon Beasts of carriage; when on the sudden one of their Vaunt-currors, brought newes of the Kings approch. Hereupon with great tumult they armed themselues, and had ranged their battailes in good order vpon the side of the Riuer Euphrates, where they waited for the cōming of their enemies, whom they saw not till it was after-noone. But when they saw the cloud of dust raised by the feete of that huge multitude, which the King drew after him, and perceiued by their neere [unspec 20] approch how well they were marshalled, comming on very orderly, in silence, whereas it had beene expected, that rushing violently with loude clamours, they should haue spent all their force vpon the first brunt; and when it appeared that the fronts of the two Armies were so vnequall in distent, being all embattailed in one bodie and square, that Cyrus taking his place (as was the Persian maner) in the mid∣dest of his owne, did not with the corner, and vtmost point therof, reach to the halfe breadth of Artaxerxes his battaile, who carried a front proportionable to his num∣ber, exceeding nine times that of Cyrus: then did the Greekes begin to distrust their owne manhood, which was not accustomed to make proofe of it self, vpon such ex∣cessiue oddes. It was almost incredible, that so great an Armie should bee so easily [unspec 30] chased. Neuerthelesse, it quickly appeared, that these Persians, hauing learned (contrary to their custome) to giue charge vpon their enemies with silence; had not learned (for it was contrary to their nature) to receiue a strong charge with cou∣rage. Vpon the very first offer of on-set, made by the Greekes, all that beastly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of cowards fled amaine, without abiding the stroke, or staying till they were within reach of a Dart. The Chariots armed with hookes and sithes (whereof Artaxerxes had two hundred, and Cyrus not twentie) did small hurt that day, because the dri∣uers of them leaping downe, fled away on 〈◊〉〈◊〉. This base demeanour of his ene∣mies gaue so much confidence to Cyrus, and his Followers, that such as were about him forth-with adored him as King. And certainely, the Title had beene assured [unspec 40] vnto him that day, had not he sought how to declare himselfe worthy of it, ere yet he had obtained it For, perceiuing that Artaxerxes, who found that part of the field which lay before him voide, was about to encompasse the Greeks, and to set vp∣on them in the reare, he aduanced with sixe hundred Horse, and gaue so valiant a charge vpon a squadron of sixe thousand, which lay before the King, that he brake it, slaying the Captaine thereof, Artagerses, with his owne hands, and putting all the rest to flight. Hereupon his whole companie of sixe hundred, very few excepted, began to follow the chase, leauing Cyrus too ill attended, who perceiuing where the King stood in troupe, vncertaine whether to fight, or leaue the field, could not containe himselfe, but said; I see the man: and presently with a small 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of [unspec 50] men about him ranne vpon his brother, whom he strake through the Curace, and wounded in the brest. Hauing giuen this stroke, which was his last, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 receiued im∣mediately the fatall blow, which gaue period at once to his ambition and life being wounded vnder the eye with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉, throwne by a base-fellow, wherewith astonied,

he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dead from his horse, or so hurt, that it was vnpossible to haue recouered him, though all which were with him, did their best for his safety; not caring after∣wards for their owne liues, when once they perceiued that Cyrus their Master was slaine. Artaxerxes caused the head and right hand of his brother to bee forthwith stricken off, and shewed to his people, who now pursuing them, fled apace, calling vpon the name of Cyrus, and desiring him to pardon them. But when this great ac∣cident had breathed new courage into the Kings troupes, & vtterly dismaied such Persian Captaines, as were now, euen in their owne eies, no better than rebels; it was not long 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Campe of Cyrus was taken, being quite abandoned, from whence 〈◊〉〈◊〉, making all speede, arriued quickly at the quarter of the Greekes, [unspec 10] which was about three miles from the place where Cyrus fell. There hee met with Tissaphernes, who hauing made way through the battaile of the Greekes, was readie now to joyne with his Master in spoiling their Tents. Had not the newes, which Artaxerxes brought with him of his brothers death, beene sufficient to counter∣uaile all disasters receiued; the exploit of Tissaphernes in breaking through the Greekes would haue yeelded little comfort. For Tissaphernes had not slaine any one man of the Greekes, but contrariwise, when he gaue vpon them, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 opening their battaile, draue him with great slaughter through them, in such 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that he rather escaped as out of an hard passage, than forced his way through the squadron of the Greekes. Hereof the King being informed by him, and that the Greekes, as Masters [unspec 20] of the field, gaue chase to all that came in their sight; they ranged their Companies into good order, and followed after these Greekes, intending to set vpon them in reare. But these good Souldiers perceiuing the Kings approch, turned their faces, and made head against him; who not intending to seeke honour with danger of his life, wheeled about and fled, being pursued vnto a certaine Village, that lay vnder a Hill, on the top whereof he made a stand, rather in a brauerie, than with purpose to attempt vpon these bold-fellowes any further. For he knew well that his brothers death had secured his estate, whom he would seeme to haue slaine with his owne hand, thinking that fact alone sufficient to giue reputation to his valour; and this reputation he thought that he might now preserue wel enough, by shewing a man∣ly [unspec 30] looke, halfe a mile off. On the top of this Hill therefore he aduanced his Stan∣dard, a golden Eagle displaied on the top of a Speare. This ensigne might haue en∣couraged his people, had not some of the Greekes espied it, who not meaning that he should abide so neere them, with all their power marched toward him. The King discouering their approch, fled vpon the spurre; so that none remained in the place of battaile, saue only the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who had lost that day not one man, nor taken any other harme, than that one of them was hurt with an arrow. Much they wondred that they heard no newes of Cyrus, but thinking that hee was pursuing the Armie, they thought it was fittest for them, hauing that day done enough, to returne to their quarter, and take their Supper, to which they had good 〈◊〉〈◊〉, because the [unspec 40] expectation of the Kings comming had giuen them no leisure to dine.

§. V. The hard estate of the Greekes after the fight; and how ARTAXERXES in vaine sought to haue made them yeeld vnto him.

IT was now about the setting of the Sunne, and they bringing home darke night with them, found their Campe spoiled, little, or nothing [unspec 50] being left, that might serue for food: so that wanting victualls to sa∣tisfie their hunger, they refreshed their wearie bodies with sleepe. In the meane season Artaxerxes returning to his Camp, which he entred by Torch-light, could not enjoy the pleasure of his good fortune entire, because he

percciued that the basenesse of his people, and weakenesse of his Empire, was now plainely discouered to the Greckes: which gaue him assurance, that if any of these who had beheld the shamefull demeanor of his Armie, should liue to carry tidings home, it would not be long, ere with greater forces they disputed with him for his whole Signoric. Wherefore hee resolued, to trie all meanes, whereby hee might bring them to destruction, and not let one escape to carrie tidings of that which he had leene: to which purpose hee sent them a braue message the next morning; Charging them to deliuer vp their Armes, and come to his Gate, to awaite there vpon his Mercie. It seemes that he was in good hope to haue found their high cou∣rages broken, vpon report of his brothers death: but he was greatly decciued in that [unspec 10] thought. For the Greekes being aduertised that morning from Ariaeus, a principall Cōmander vnder Cyrus, that his Master being slaine, he had retired himselfe to the place of their last encamping, about eight miles from them, whence intending to re∣turne into Ionia, his meaning was to dislodge the next day, awaiting for them so long if they would joyne with him, but resoluing to stay no longer: they sent an∣swere back to Ariaeus, that hauing beaten the King out of the field, and finding none that durst resist them, they would place Ariaeus himselfe in the Kings Throne, if he would joyne with them, and pursue the victorie. Before they receiued any re∣ply to this answere, the Messengers of Artaxerxes arriued at the Campe, whose er∣rand seemed to the Captaines very insolent: One told them that it was not for the [unspec 20] Vanquishers to yeeld their Weapons; another, that he would die ere hee yeelded to such a motion; a third asked, whether the King, as hauing the victoric, required their Weapons; if so, why did he not fetch them? or, whether he desired them in way of friendship; for then would they first know, with what courtesie hee meant to requite their kindnesse. To this question Phalinus a Graecian, waiting vpon Tissa∣phernes, answered; That the King hauing slaine Cyrus, knew no man that could pretend any Title to his Kingdome, in the middest whereof he held them fast en∣closed with great Riuers, being able to bring against them such numbers of men, as they wanted strength to kill if they would hold vp their throats, for which cause he accounted them his prisoners. These words, to them, who knew themselues to [unspec 30] be free, were nothing pleasant. Therefore, one told Phalinus, that hauing nothing left, but their Armes & Valour, whilest they kept their Armes, their Valour would be seruiceable, but should they yeeld them, it was to be doubted, that their bodies would not long remaine their owne. Hereat Phalinus laughed, saying; This yong∣man did seeme a Philosopher, and made a pretty speech; but that his deepe specula∣tion shewed his wits to be very shallow, if he thought with his Armes, and his Va∣lour, to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against the great King. It seemes that Phalinus being a Courtier, and imploied in a businesse of importance, thought himself too profound a States∣man, to be checkt in his Embassage by a bookish discourser. But his wisdome here∣in failed him. For what soeuer he himselfe was (of whom no more is knowne than [unspec 40] that he brought an vnhonest message to his owne Countrimen, perswading them basely to surrender their Weapons, & Liues, to the mercilesse Barbarians) this yong Scholler by him despised, was that great Xenophon, who, when all the principall Commanders were surprised by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Persians, being a priuate Gentle∣man, and hauing neuer seene the warres before, vnder-tooke the conduct of the Ar∣mie, which he brought safe into Greece, freeing it from all those, and from greater dangers than Phalinus could propound. Some there were who promised to be faith∣full to the King, as they had beene to Cyrus, offering their seruice in Aegypt, where they thought Artaxerxes might haue vse of them. But the finall answere was, That without Weapons they could neither doe the King good as Friends, nor defend [unspec 50] themselues from him as Enemies. Hereupon Phalinus deliuered the Kings further pleasure, which was to grant them Truce, whilest they abode where they thē were, denouncing Warre if they stirred thence; Whereunto hee required their answere. Clearchus the Generall told him, they liked it. How (saith Phalinus) must I vnder∣stand

you? as choosing peace if we stay, otherwise warre, said Clearchus. But whe∣ther warre or peace? quoth this politique Embassadour. To whom Clearchus (not willing to acquaint him with their purpose,) Let our doings tell you; and so dis∣missed him, no wiser than he came. All that day the Greckes were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vp∣on their Horses, Asses, and other Beasts, which they rosted with arrowes, darts, and woodden targets, throwne away by the Enemies.

§. VI. How the Greekes beganne to returne home-wards. [unspec 10]

AT night they tooke their way towards Ariaeus, to whom they came at mid-night; being for saken by foure hundred foot, and forty horse, all Thracians, who fled ouer the King, by whom how they were en∣tertained, I doe not finde. Like enough it is that they were cut in pie∣ces; for had they been kindly vsed, it may well bee thought that some of them should haue accompanied Tissaphernes, and serued as Stales to draw in the rest. Ariaeus being of too base a temper, and birth, to thinke vpon seeking the King∣dome for him selfe, with such assistance as might haue giuen it vnto Cyrus, was very [unspec 20] well pleased to make couenant with them for mutuall asfistance vnto the last: Wherunto both parts hauing sworne, he aduised them to take another way home∣ward, which should bee somewhat longer, yet safer and fitter to relieue them with victuals, than that by which they came. The next day, hauing made a wearisome march, and tired the Souldiers, they found the Kings Armic which had coasted them, lodged in certaine Villages, where they purposed themselues to haue en∣camped: towards which Clearchus made directly, because hee would not seeme by declining them to shew feare, or weakenesse. That the Kings men were contented to remoue, and giue place to their betters, it cannot be strange to any that hath con∣sidered their former behauiour; Nor strange, that the Graecians being wearie and [unspec 30] hungrie, and lying among enemies in an vnknowne Countrie, should be very feare∣full: but it is almost past beliefe, that the noise which was heard of these poore men, calling one to another tumultuously, as the present condition inforced them to doe, should make the Persians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out of their Campe, and so affright the great King, that in stead of demanding their Armes, he should craue peace of them. The next day very early, came messengers from Artaxerxes, desiring 〈◊〉〈◊〉 accesse for Em∣bassadours, to entreat of peace. Were it not that such particulars doe best open the qualitie of the persons, by whom things were managed, I should hold it fitter, to runne ouer the general passages of those times, than to dwel among circumstances. But surely it is a point very remarkeable, That when Clearchus had willed the Mes∣sengers [unspec 40] to bid the King prepare for battaile, because the Greekes (as he said) wanting whereupon to dine, could not endure to heare of truce till their bellies were full; Artaxerxes dissembling the indignitie, was contented sweetly to swallow downe this pill, sending them guides, who conducted them to a place where was plentie of victuals to relieue them. [unspec 50]

§. VII. How TISSAPHERNES, vnder colour of peace, betraied all the Captaines of the Greekes.

HItherto the Greekes, relying vpon their owne vertue, had rather aduan∣ced their affaires, than brought thēselues into any straights or termes of disaduantage. But now came vnto them the subtile Fox Tissapher∣nes, who circumuenting the chiefe Commanders by fine sleights, did mischieuously entrappe them, to the extreme danger of the Armie. [unspec 10] He told them, that his Prouince, lying neere vnto Greece, had caused him greatly to desire, that their deliuerance might be wrought by his procurement; knowing well that in time to come, both they, and their Countrimen at home, would not be vn∣thankefull for such a benefit. Here withall hee forgot not to rehearse the great ser∣uice that he had done to his Master, being the first that aduertised him of Cyrus his intent, and hauing not only brought him a good strength of men, but in the day of battaile shewed his face to the Greekes, when all others turned their backs: that he, together with the King, did enter their Campe, and gaue chase to the Barbarians that stood on the part of Cyrus. All this (quoth hee) did I alledge to the King, en∣treating that he would giue me leaue to conduct you safe into Greece; in which suite [unspec 20] I haue good hope to speede, if you will send a milde answere to him, who hath wil∣led me to aske you, for what cause yee haue borne Armes against him. The Cap∣taines hearing this, were contented to giue gentle words, which Tissaphernes relating to the King, procured (though very hardly as he said) that peace should bee gran∣ted: the conditions whereof were; That they should passe freely through all the Kings Dominions, paying for what they tooke, and committing no spoile: yet that it should be lawfull forthem to take victuals by force, in any place that refused to affoord them an open Market. Hereunto both parties hauing sworne, the League was concluded, and Tissaphernes returning to the King to take leaue, and end all bu∣sinesse, came vnto them againe after twentie daics, and then they set forward. This [unspec 30] interim of twenty daies, which Tissaphernes did spend at the Court, ministred great occasion of mistrust to his new Confederates. For besides his long absence, which alone 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to breede doubt; the Brethren, and Kindred of Ariaeus, repairing dai∣ly to him, and other Persians to his Souldiers, did work him and them so with assu∣rance of pardon, and other allurements, that hee daily grew more strange to the Greekes, than 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had beene. This caused many to aduise Clearchus, rather to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 forward as well as he might, than to relie vpon couenants, and sit still whi∣lest the King laied 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to entrap them. But he on the contrarie perswaded them, to rest contented whilest they were well, and not to cast themselues againe into those difficulties, out of which they were newly freed by the late Treatie; reciting [unspec 40] withall their owne wants, and the Kings meanes, but especially the Oathes mutu∣ally giuen and taken, where with hee saw no reason why the enemie should haue clogged himselfe if hee meant mischiefe, hauing power enough to doe them harme by a faire and open Warre.

Tissaphernes was a very honourable Man (if honour may bee valued by great∣nesse and place in Court) which caused his Oath to bee the more esteemed; for as much as no inforcement, or base respect, was like to haue drawne it from him. But his falshood was such, both in substance and in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 may fitly expound that saying, which proceeded from the fountaine of Truth, I hate a rich man a lyar. A lye may finde excuse when it growes out of feare 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for that passion hath his ori∣ginall [unspec 50] from weakenesse. But when Power, which is a Character of the Almightie, shall be made the supporter of vntruth, the falshood is most abominable; for the offender, like proud Lucifer, aduancing his owne strength against the diuine Iustice, doth commit that sinne with an high hand, which commonly producech lamen∣table

effects, and is followed with sure vengeance. It was not long ere 〈◊〉〈◊〉 found meanes to destroy all the Captaines, whom hee subtilly got into his power by a traine; making the Generall Clearchus himselfe the meane to draw in all the rest. The businesse was contriued thus: Hauing trauailed some daies together in such wise, that the Persians did not encampe with the Grcekes, who were very jea∣lous of the great familiaritie, appearing betweene Tissaphernes, and Ariaeus; Clearchus thought it conuenient to roote out of Tissaphernes his braines all causes of distrust, whereof many had growne in that short time. To which purpose obtaining priuate conference with him, he rehearsed the oath of Confederacie, which had past be∣tweene them, shewing how religiously he meant to keepe it, and repeating the be∣nefits, [unspec 10] which the Greekes did receiue by the helpe of Tissaphernes, he promised that their loue should appeare to him not vnfruitful, if he would make vse of their seruice against the Mysians or Pisidians, who were accustemed to infest his Prouince, or a∣gainst the Aegyptians, who were then Rebels to the great King. For which cause he desired him, that whereas al diuine and humane respects had linked them together, he would not giue place to any close accusation or suspition, whereby might grow sudden inconuenience to either of them, vpon no just ground. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 faithlesse Per∣sian was very much delighted with this speech, which ministred faire occasion to the execution of his purpose. Therefore he told 〈◊〉〈◊〉 chus, that all this was by him wisely considered, wishing him further to call to minde how many waies hee could [unspec 20] haue vsed to bring them to confusion, without perill to himselfe, especially by bur∣ning the Countrie, through which they were to passe, whereby they must needes haue perished by meere famine. For which cause hee said that it had beene great folly, to seeke by perjurie, odious to God and Man, the destruction of such as were alreadie in his hands; But the truth was, that his owne loue to them had moued him to worke their safetie, not onely for those ends which Clearchus had recounted, of pleasures that might redound to himselfe, and the King, by their assistance: but for that he might by their friendship, hope to obtaine what Cyrus had mist. Finally, he inuited the credulous Gentleman to Supper, and sent him away so well assured of his good will, that he promised to bring all the Captaines with him to the same [unspec 30] place, where, in presence of them all, Tissaphernes likewise promised to tell openly, which of them had by secret information sought to raise dissension between them. Clearchus himselfe being thus deceiued, with great importunitie drew all the chiefe Commanders, and many of the inferiour Leaders, to repaire with him to the camp of Tissaphernes, whither followed them about two hundred of the common Soul∣diers as it had beene to some common Faire. But being there arriued, Clearchus with other the fiue principall Coronels, were called into the Tent, the rest staying without, where they had not waited long ere a signe was giuen, vpon which they within were apprehended, and the residue slaine. Forthwith certaine bands of Per∣sian Horse-men scoured the field, killing as many Greekes as they met, and riding vp [unspec 40] to the very Campe of the Graecians, who wondred much at the tumult, whereof they knew not the cause, till one, escaping sorely wounded, informed them of all that had beene done. Hereupon the Greekes took Armes in haste, thinking that the enemy would forthwith haue assailed their Campe. Anon they might perceiue the Embassadours of Tissaphernes, among whom were his owne brother, and Ariaeus, followed with three hundred Horse, who called for the principall men in the Ar∣mie, saying, that they brought a message from the King, which Ariaeus deliuered to this effect. That Clearchus hauing broken his faith, and the league made, was justly rewarded with death; that Menon and Proxenus, two other of the siue Co∣ronels, for detecting his treacheric, were highly honoured; and finally, that the [unspec 50] King required them to surrender their Armes, which were due to him, as hauing belonged vnto his seruant Cyrus. When some altercation had followed vpon this message, Xenophon told the Embassadours, that if Clearchus had in such sort offen∣ded, it was well that he was in such sort punished: but he willed them to send back

Menon and Proxenus, whom they had so greatly honoured, that by them, as by common friends to both Nations, the Greekes might be aduised how to answere the Persian. Hereunto the Embassadours knew not how to frame any reply, and there∣fore departed without speaking one word more. Clearchus, and the other foure were sent to Artaxerxes, by whose commandement their heads were striken off. I hold it not amisse to preuent the order of time, annexing to this perfidiousnesse of Tissaphernes, the reward which he afterward receiued. He saw his Prouince wasted by the Greekes, against whom receiuing from his Master conuenient aide of men and money, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 did so ill manage his affaires, that neither subtiltie, nor perjurie (to which he failed not to haue recourse) auailing him; finally, the King was jealous of [unspec 10] his cunning head, and sent a new Lieutenant into those parts, who tooke it from his shoulders. Such was the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of his treacherie, which made him so mis∣trusted at home, that the seruice which he could not doe, he was thought vpon pri∣uate ends to neglect; and so hated abroad, that he knew not which way to flye from the stroke, all the world being shut against him. But now let vs returne to the pro∣speritie, where in hee triumphed without great cause, hauing betrayed brauer men than himselfe, and intending to bring the like mischiefe vpon the whole Armie.

§. VIII. How XENOPHON heartened the Greekes, and in despight of TISSA∣PHERNES [unspec 20] went off safely.

GReat was the heauinesse of the Souldiers, being now destitute of Lea∣ders, and no lesse their feare of the euill hanging ouer their heads, which they knew not how to auoide. Among the rest, Xenophon, whose learning supplied his want of experience, finding the deepe sadnesse of the whole Armie to be such as hindred them from taking any course of preuenting the danger at hand, began to aduise the vnder Officers of Proxenus his companies, whose familiar friend he had beene, to bethinke them∣selues [unspec 30] of some meane, whereby their safetie might be wrought, and the Souldiers encouraged: setting before their eyes whatsoeuer might serue to giue them hope, and aboue al perswading them in no wise to yeeld to the mercy of their barbarous enemies.

Hereupon they desired him to take vpon him the charge of that Regiment; and so together with him, the same night calling vp such as were remaining of any ac∣count, they made choice of the fittest men to succeede in the places of those who were slaine, or taken. This being done, and order set downe for disburdening the Armie of all superfluous impediments, they easily comforted themselues for the losse of Tissaphernes his assistance, hoping to take victuals by force better cheap than [unspec 40] he had beene wont to sell them; To which purpose they intended to take vp their lodging two or three miles further, among some plentifull Villages, and so to pro∣ceede, marching towards the heads of those great Riuers, which lay in their way, and to passe them where they were foordable. Many attempts were made vpon them by Tissaphernes, whom they, seruing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on foot, were not able to requite for the harme which they receiued by the Persian Archers, who shot at a farther distance than the Greekes could reach. For this cause did Xenophon prouide slings, wherewith he ouer-reached the enemy; and finding some Horses fit for seruice, that were im∣ployed among the carriages, he set men vpon them; training likewise his Archers to shoote compasse, who had beene accustomed to the point blanke. By these [unspec 50] meanes did hee beare off the Persians who assailed him; and sometimes gaue them chace with that band of fiftie Horse, which being well 〈◊〉〈◊〉, with a firme bodie of footmen, and seconded with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the light-armed-shot and flingers, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the enemie to lie a-loose. Tissaphernes not daring to come to handie gripes with

these resolute men, did possesse the tops of Mountaines, and places of aduantage, by which they were to passe. But finally, when their valour made way through all such difficulties, he betooke himselfe to that course, which was indeede the surest, of burning the Countrie. With great sorrow did the Greekes behold the Villages on fire, and thereby all hope of victuals cut off. Some aduised to defend the Coun∣trie, as granted by the enemie himselfe to be theirs; others to make more fires, if so perhaps the Persians might be ashamed to doe that which were the desire of such as made passage in hostile manner; But these were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 comforts. The best counsaile was, that being neere vnto the Carduchi, a people enemie to the Persian, they should enter into their Countrie passing ouer some high Mountaines which lay betweene [unspec 10] them. This course they followed, which could not haue auailed them, if Tissapher∣nes had begunne sooner to cut off their victuals, rather then to seeke to force, or to circumuent them by his fine wit.

§. IX. The difficulties which the Greeke Armie found in passing through the Land of the Carduchi.

ENtring vpon the Land of the Carduchi, they were encountred with [unspec 20] many difficulties of waies, but much more afflicted by the fierce In∣habitants, who, accustomed by force to defend themselues against the huge Armies of the Persian, were no way inferiour to the Greekes in daring, but only in the Art of warre. They were verie light of foot, skilfull Archers; and vsed the Sling well; which weapons in that mountainous Countrie were of much vse against these poore trauailers, afflicting them in seuen daies which they spent in that passage, farre more than all the power of the great King had done. Betweene the Territorie of these Carduchi, and the parts of Arme∣nia confining them, ranne Centrites a great Riuer, vpon which the Greekes refreshed themselues one day, reioycing that they had so well escaped these dangers, and ho∣ping [unspec 30] that the remainder would proue easie. But the next morning they saw cer∣taine troupes of Horse, that lay to forbid their passage. These were leauied by the Kings Deputies in those parts; Tissaphernes and his Companies hauing taken their way towards Ionia. The Riuer was broade and deepe, so that it was not possible for such as would enter it, to make resistance against those which kept the opposite bankes. To increase these dangers the Carduchi following vpon them, lay on the side of a Mountaine, within lesse than a mile of the water. But it was their good hap to discouer a Foord, by which the greater number of them passing ouer, did easily chase away the Subiects of the Persian, and then sending backe the most expedite men, gaue succour to the Reare-ward, against which the Carduchi being slightly ar∣med, [unspec 40] could not on plaine ground make resistance hand to hand. These Carduchi seeme to haue inhabited the Mountaines of Niphates, which are not farre from the Spring of Tygris; though Ptolomie place them far more to the East vpon the Riuer of Cyrus in Media, wherein he differs much from Xenophon, whose relation being grounded vpon his owne knowledge, doth best in this case deserue credit. Of the Riuer Centrites (as of many other Riuers, Townes, and Places, mentioned by Xenophon) I will not labour to make a coniecture, which may endure the seueritie of a Critick. For Ptolomie, and the whole Nation of Geographers, adde small light to this expedition: only of this last, I thinke it the same which falleth into Tigris, not much aboue Artasigarta springing out of Niphates, and running by the Towne of [unspec 50] Sardeua in Gordene, a Prouince of Armenia the Great, wherein the Greekes hauing passed Centrites did arriue.

§. X. How 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gouernour of Armenia, seeking to entrap the Greekes with termes of fained peace, was disappointed and shamefully beaten.

THe Armie finding in Armenia good prouision, marched without any disturbance about fiftie or three score miles to the heads of the Riuer Tigris, and passing ouer them, trauailed as farre further without re∣sistance, till they were encountred by Teribazus at the Riuer 〈◊〉〈◊〉, [unspec 10] which Xenophon commends as a goodly water, though small; but Pto∣lomie and others omit it. Teribazus gouerned that Countrie for the Persian, and was in great fauour with Artaxerxes, whose Court may seeme to haue beene a Schoole where the Art of falshood was taught as wisdome. He desired peace of the Greeks, which was made vpon this condition, that they should take what they pleased, but not burne downe the Townes and Villages in their way. As soone as he had made this league, he leauied an Armie, & besetting the Straights of certaine Mountaines which they were to passe, hoped wel to make such benefit of their security, as might giue him the commendation of being no lesse craftily dishonest than Tissaphernes. Yet his cunning failed of successe. For a great snow fell, which caused the Greekes [unspec 20] to make many fires, and scatter themselues abroad in the Villages. Teribazus also made many fires, and some of his men wandred about seeking reliefe. By the fires he was discouered, and by a Souldier of his that was taken prisoner, the whole 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was reuealed. Heereupon the Greekes, taking this captiue with them for a guide, sought him out; and comming vpon his Campe, did so affright him, that before the whole Armie could arriue there, the shout which was raised by the Vaunt-currors, chased him away. They tooke his Pauilion, wherein (besides many slaues, that were Artificers of voluptuousnesse) verie rich furniture was left by the treacherous coward, who returned no more to challenge it. From hence the Armie went north∣ward, and passing Euprates, not far below the springs thereof, trauailed with much [unspec 30] difficulty through deepe snow, being followed aloofe by the enemy, who durst not approach them, but did cut off such as they found stragling behinde. The Inhabi∣tants of the Countrie, through which they marched, had their wintring houses vn∣der ground, wherein was found great plentie of victuals, and of cattaile, which like∣wise did winter in the same Cellars with the owners. Hauing refreshed themselues in those parts, and taken sufficient 〈◊〉〈◊〉 after the miserable iourney, which had con∣sumed many of them with extreme cold; they departed, leading with them many bond-slaues, and taking away (besides other Horses and Cattaile) some Colts that were bred vp for the great King. [unspec 40]

§. XI. The passage of the Armie to Trabizonde, through the Countries bordering vpon the Riuer of Phasis, and other ob∣scure Nations.

SO without impediment they came to the Riuer Phasis, neere where∣vnto the people called 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Taochi, and Chalybes were scated. These Nations ioyned together, and occupying the tops of a ledge of Moun∣taines, which the Greekes were to passe, made countenance of warre: [unspec 50] but some companies being sent by night to seize vpon a place of e∣quall height to that whereon the enemies lay, making good the piece of ground which they had taken, secured the ascent of the rest; which caused these people to flie, euery one retyring to the defence of his owne. The first vpon whose Countrie

the Greekes did enter were the Taochi, who conuaying all their prouision of victuals into strong holds, brought the Armie into much want, vntill with hard labour one place was forced, wherein great store of cattaile were taken; the people, to auoide captiuitie, threw themselues head-long downe the rocks, the very women throw∣ing downe first their owne children, and then casting themselues vpon them. Here was taken a great bootie of Cattaile, which serued to feed them, trauailing through the land of the Chalybes, of whom they got nothing but strokes. The Chalybes were a very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Nation, well armed at all points, and exceeding fierce. They encoun∣tred the Greekes hand to hand, killing as many as they tooke prisoners, and cutting off their heads, which they carried away, singing and dancing, to the great griefe of [unspec 10] their companions liuing; who were glad, when after seuen daies iourney they e∣scaped from those continuall skirmishes, wherewith they had been vexed by these Barbarians. Hence trauailing through a good corne-Countrie, inhabited by an ob∣scure Nation called the Scythini, they came to a rich Towne, the Lord wherof, and of the Region adioyning, vsed them friendly, and promised to guide them to a Mountaine, whence they might discouer the Euxine- Sea. From Gymnias (which was the name of his Towne) he led them through the Territorie of his enemies, desiring them to waste it with sword and fire. After fiue daies march, they came to a Mountaine called Teches, being (as I thinke) a part of the Mountaines called 〈◊〉〈◊〉, whence their guide shewed them the Sea; towards which they bent their [unspec 20] course, and passing friendly through the Region of the Macrones, (with whom by meanes of an interpreter, found among themselues, who borne in that place had beene sold into Greece, they made a good peace) they arriued in the Land of Colchos, wherein stands the Citie of * 1.1 Trabisond, called then Trapezus, a Colonie of the Greekes. The Colchi entertaining them with hostilitie, were requited with the like; for the Armie hauing now good leisure to repose themselues among their friends the Trapezuntians, did spoile the Countrie thirtie daies together, forbearing onely the Borderers vpon Trabizonde, at the Citizens request. [unspec 30]

§. XII. How the Armie beganne at Trabizond to prouide a Fleet, wherewith to returne home by Sea: how it came into the Territorie of Sinope, and there prosequuted the same purpose.

HAuing now found an Hauen Towne, the Souldiers were desirous to take shipping, and change their tedious Land-iournies into an easie Nauigation. To which purpose Cherisophus a Lacedemonian, one of the principall Commanders, promised by meanes of Anaxibius the Lacedaemonian Admirall, who was his friend, that he would prouide [unspec 40] Vessels to embarke them. Hauing thus concluded, they likewise tooke order for the staying of such ships as should passe that way, meaning to vse them for their na∣uigation. Lest all this prouision should be found insufficient for the transportation of the whole Armie, Xenophon perswaded the Cities adioyning to cleare the waies, and make an easie passage for them by Land; whereunto the Souldiers were vtterly vnwilling to giue 〈◊〉〈◊〉, being desirous to returne by Sea, but the Countrie fearing what inconuenience might grow by their long stay, did readily condescend to Xeno∣phons request. Two ships they borrowed of the Trapezuntians, which they man∣ned and sent to Sea: the one of them sailed directly into Greece, forsaking their Companions, who had put them in trust to bring ships into the Port of 〈◊〉〈◊〉: [unspec 50] the other tooke Merchants and passengers, whose goods were safely kept for the owners, but the Vessels were staied to increase the fleet. After long abode, when victuals beganne to faile, by reason that all the Land of the Colchi, neere vnto the Campe was alreadie quite wasted, they were faine to embarke their sickmen, with

the women, children, and such of the baggage as might best be spared, in those few ships which they had already prouided. The rest of the Armie tooke their way by Land to Cerasus, a Greeke Towne, where the fleet likewise arriued. Here the Armie being mustered, was found to consist of eight thousand and six hundred men From hence they passed through the Countrie of the a 1.2 Mosynaci, who were diuided into factions. The stronger partic, despising their friendship, caused them to ioyne with the weaker, whom they left Masters of all.

The next place of their abode was b 1.3 Cotyora, a Greeke Towne likewise, and a Colo∣nie of the Sinopians, as Trapezus and Cerasus were; but the entertainement which here they found was very churlish, hauing neither an open Market affoorded to [unspec 10] them, nor the sick-men that were among them admitted into any house. Hereupon the Soul diers entred the Towne by force, and (committing no outrage) bestowed those which were sicke in conuenient lodgings, taking into their owne hands the custody of the Gates. Prouision for the Armie they made by strong hand, partly out of the Territorie of the Paphlagonians, partly out of the Lands belonging to the Towne. These newes were vnwelcome to c 1.4 Sinope, whence Embassadours were sent to the Camp, who complaining of these dealings, and threatning to joyne with the Paphlagonians, if redresse could not otherwise be had, were roundly answered by Xenophon, That meere necessitie had enforced the Armie to teach those of Cotyora good manners in so bad a methode: letting them know, that he feared not to deale [unspec 20] with them and the Paphlagonian at once; though perhaps the Paphlagonian would be glad to take Sinope it selfe, to which, if cause were giuen, they would lend assistance. Vpon this answere the Embassadors grew better aduised, promising all friendship that the State of Sinope could shew, and commanding the Towne of Cotyora to re∣lieue the Souldiers as well as they might. Further, they promised to assist them with shipping, letting them vnderstand how difficult the passage by Land would proue, in regard of the many and great Riuers, as Thermodon, Iris, Halys, and Par∣thenius, which crossed their way. This good counsaile, and the faire promises ac∣companying it, were kindly accepted by the Armie, which well perceiued, that the Citie of Sinope would spare for no cost, to be freed from such a neighbourhood. It [unspec 30] was therefore decreed that they would passe the rest of the way by Sea; prouided that if there should want such number of Vessels as might serue to embarke euery one man of them, then would they not put from the shore.

§. XIII. Of dissension which arose in the Armie; and how it was embarked.

HItherto the danger 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and miseries of weather & wants, had kept the companie in firme vnitie; which now beganne to dissolue [unspec 40] and to thaw, by the neighbouring aire of Greece, warming their heads with priuate respects to their seuerall ends and purposes. Whilest they, who were sent as Agents from the Campe, remained at Sinope; Xenophon considering the strength and valour of his men, and the opportunitie of the coast wheron they lay, thought it would be an honorable worke to build a Ci∣tie in those parts, which were soone like to proue great and wealthie, in regard both of their owne puissance, and of the great repaire of the Greekes into that quarter. For this cause he made sacrifice, according to the superstition of his time and Coun∣trie, diuining of his successe by the entrailes of beasts. The Sooth-sayer whom hee imployed had receiued a great reward of Cyrus, for coniecturing aright, that Ar∣taxerxes [unspec 50] would not giue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in ten daies: hee therefore, hauing preserued his money carefully, was desirous to be soone at home, that he might freely enioy his gettings. By him the purpose of Xenophon was diuulged, which was interpreted ac∣cording to the diuersitie of mens opinions; some approuing the motion, but the

greater part reiecting it. They of Sinope and Heraclea, being informed of this con∣sultation, were sore afraide, lest the pouertie of the Souldiers, who had not where∣with to maintaine themselues at home, should giue successe to the proiect. Which to preuent, they promised to supply the Armie with a sufficient fleet, and likewise offered money to some of the Captaines, who thereupon vnder-tooke to giue the Souldiers pay, if they would presently set saile for Greece. One of these Captaines being a banished man, desired them to follow him into Troas; another offered to leade them into Cherronesus. Xenophon who desired only the common good, was pleased greatly with these propositions and professed openly that hee would 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them to set forward, and hold together in any case, punishing him as a Traitor that [unspec 10] should for sake the Armie, before such time as they were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at their iournies end. Silanus the Sooth-sayer, who had vttered Xenophons purpose, was heereby staied from outrunning his fellowes, and driuen to abide with his wealth among poore men, longer than stood with his good liking. Also the other Captaines were much troubled and afraid, when they perceiued, that ships were prepared sufficient for their Nauigation, but that the money promised to them, and by them to the Souldiers, came not. For the people of Sinope, and Heraclea, knowing that the Armie was now resolued for the voiage, & that 〈◊〉〈◊〉, whom they feared, had perswa∣ded them to this resolution; thought it the wisest way to furnish them with a Nauy whilest they were in good readinesse to depart, but to keepe the money to them∣selues. [unspec 20] The Captaines therefore who being disappointed by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Townes, found themselues in great danger of their men, whom they had deceiued with fair hopes, repented much of their hastie offers, & signifying as much to Xenophon, praied him to make proposition to the Armie, of taking the ships, and sayling to Phasis, where they might seize vpon Lands, & plant themselues in such wise as should stand best with their good liking. But finding him cold in the businesse, they began to worke the principall of their own followers, hoping by them to draw in all the rest. These newes becomming publike, bred a suspition of Xenophon, as if he had wonne the rest of the Captaine to his purpose, and meant now to carrie the Armie quite another way from their owne home. Wherefore assembling the Companies, he gaue them [unspec 30] satisfaction, and withall complained of some disorders which he caused them to re∣dresse. A generall inquisition was likewise made of offences committed since the death of Cyrus; which being punished, all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were in quiet. Shortly after came Embassadours from Corylas, Lord of the Paphlagonians, who sending presents desi∣red peace of the Greekes: the Embassadours were friendly entertained, and peace concluded, which needed not to haue been sought, for that the Greckes hauing now their fleet in a readinesse, did soone weigh Anchors, and set saile for Harmene the Port of Sinope, whither Cherisophus came, bringing with him a few Gallies from the Admirall Anaxibius, who promised to giue the Armie pay as soone, as they came into the parts of Greece. [unspec 40]

§. XIIII. Another great dissension and distraction of the Armie. How the muti∣ners were beaten by the Barbarians, and rescued by XENOPHON.

THe neerer that they approched to Greece, the greater was their desire to make prouision for themselues, that they might not returne home [unspec 50] emptie-handed. Wherefore trusting well that if the charge of the Armie were absolutely committed to one sufficient man, hee might the more conueniently procure the good of them all, they determi∣ned

to make Xenophon sole Commander of all, in whose fauour as well the Captains as the common Souldiers were very earnest and violent. But he, either fearing to displease the Lacedaemonians, who were iealous of him already (being incensed by that fugitiue who forsooke the Armie at Trabizond, flying with one of their two ships) or moued by some tokens appearing to him in the entrails that threatned ill successe to his gouernment, procured with vehement contention, that this honour was laied vpon Cherisophus a Lacedaemonian. It seemes that Xenophon, considering the vexations incident to the conduct of a voluntarie Army, wanting pay, did wisely in yeelding to such tokens as forbad him to accept it: especially, knowing so well their desire, which was by right or by wrong to get wealth wheresoeuer it might bee [unspec 10] found, without all regard of Friend or of Foc. Cherisophus had beene Generall but sixe or seuen daies, when he was deposed, for hauing been vnwilling to robbe the Towne of Heraclea which had sent presents to the Campe, and beene very benefi∣ciall vnto them in lending ships for their transportation. Two daies they had sailed by the coast of Asia, when being past those great Riuers, which would haue giuen impediment to their iourney by Land, they touched at Heraclea, where consulting how to take their way on wards, whether by Land or Sea, one seditious man began to put them in minde of seeking to get somewhat for themselues; telling them that all their prouision would be spent in three daies, and that being now come out of the enemies Countrie, victuals and other necessaries could not bee had without [unspec 20] money; for which cause he gaue aduice to send messengers into the Towne of He∣raclea, giuing the Citizens to vnderstand what their wants were, and demanding of them three thousand pieces of money, called Cyzicens, which summe amounteth to two thousand and fiue hundred pound starling, or thereabout. This motion was greatly applauded, and the summe raised to tenne thousand Cyzicens at least: which to require, they thought Cherisophus, as being Generall, the fittest man; o∣thers had more desire to send Xenophon: but in vaine, for they both refused it, and renounced the action as dishonest. Lest therefore either of these should faile in ma∣naging the businesse which agreed not with his disposition, others of more impu∣dencie and lesse discretion were sent, who in such wise deliuered their insolent mes∣sage; [unspec 30] that the Citizens taking time to deliberate vpon their request, brought what they could out of the fields into the Towne, and shutting the Gates, did forthwith man the walls. When the Souldiers perceiued themselues to be disappointed of their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 purpose, they fel to mutiny, saying, That their Leaders had betraied them: and being for the more part of them Arcadians, and Achaeans, they forsooke immediately Cherisophus and Xenophon, choosing new Leaders out of their owne number. Aboue foure thousand and fiue hundred they were, all heauily armed, who electing ten Captaines, sailed into the Port of Calphas, which is in the mid-way betweene Heraclea and Bizantium, with purpose to assaile the Bythinians on the sud∣daine. With Cherisophus there abode two thousand and one hundred, of whom one [unspec 40] thousand and foure hundred were armed weightily: Xenophon had two thousand foot, three hundred whereof were lightly armed, and fortie horse, which smal band had done good seruice alreadie, and could not haue beene spared now. Cherisophus had agreed with Cleander Gouernour of Bizantium, to meet him at the mouth of the Riuer Calphas, whither Cleander promised to bring some Gallies to conuey him ouer into Greece; for which cause he tooke his way thither by Land, leauing to Xenophon such shipping as he had, who passing some part of the way by Sea, landed vpon the Confines of Heraclea, and Thracia Asiatica, intending to make a cut through the mid-land-Countrie to the Propont. The Mutiners, who had landed at Calpas by night, with purpose to take spoiles in Bythinia, diuided themselues into ten Compa∣nies, [unspec 50] euery Captaine leading his owne Regiment into some Village, fiue or sixe miles from the Sea, in the greater Townes were two Regiments quartered; and so was that part of the countrie surprised on the suddaine, & sacked all at one time.

The place of Rendeuous was an high peece of ground, where some of them arri∣ued, finding no disturbance; others, not without much trouble and danger; two Companies were broken and defeated, only eight men escaping, the rest were all put to the sword. For the Thracians which had slipt at first our of the Souldiers hands, did raise the Countrie, and finding the Greekes loden with bootie, tooke the aduantage of their disorder, cutting in pieces those two Regiments: which done, they attempted the rest, encompassing the hill whereon they encamped. One great aduantage the Thractans had, that being all light armed, they could at pleasure make retrait from these Arcadians, & Achaeans: who wanting the assistance of horse, and hauing neither Archers nor Slingers among them, were driuen to stand meere∣ly [unspec 10] vpon their defence, bearing off with great danger, and many wounds receiued, the Darts and Arrowes of the Barbarians, till finally they were driuen from their watering place, and enforced to craue parly. Whatsoeuer the articles of compositi∣on were, the Thracians yeelded to all; but pledges for assurance they would giue none, without which the Greekes well knew, that all promises of such people, especi∣ally so incensed, were nothing worth. In the meane time Xenophon holding his way quietly through the In-land Region, did enquire of some Trauailers, whether they knew ought of any Graecian Armie, passing along those parts: and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by them true information of the desperate case into which these Gallants had foolishly throwne themselues, he marched directly towards the place where they lay, taking [unspec 20] with him for guides them who gaue him the intelligence. His horse-men hee sent before to discouer, and to scowre the waies; the light-armed foot-men tooke the hill-tops on either hand, all of them setting fire on whatsoeuer they found com∣bustible, whereby the whole Countrie seemed to be on a light-flame, to the great terrour of the enemies, who thought that some huge Armie had approched. That night he encamped on a Hill, within fiue mile of the Arcadians, encreasing still the number of his fires, which hee caused hastily to be quenched soone after Supper. The enemies perceiuing this, thought certainely that hee would haue fallen vpon them in the darke, which caused them in all haste to dislodge. Early the next mor∣ning Xenophon comming thither in very good order, to haue giuen battaile, found [unspec 30] that his deuice, to affright the Thracians, had taken full effect; but hee maruailed that the Greekes were also departed, concerning whom he learned by enquirie, that they remoued at breake of day, and perceiued by signes that they had taken the way to the Port of Calpas, in which journey hee ouertooke them. They embraced Him, and His, with great joy: Confessing that they themselues had thought the same which the enemies did, looking that hee should haue come by night, wherein fin∣ding themselues deceiued, they were afraid lest he had forsaken them, and there∣fore hastened away, to ouertake him, and joyne with him. So they arriued at the Hauen of Calpas, where it was decreed, That whosoeuer from thenceforth made a∣ny motion to disioyne the Armie, should suffer death. [unspec 40]

§. XV. Of diuers pieces of seruice done by XENOPHON; and how the Armie retur∣nedinto Greece. The occasions of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 betweene the Lacedae∣monians and the Persian.

THe Hauen of Calpas lay vnder a goodly head-land, that was very strong, and abounding with all kinde of Graine and Fruits, except [unspec 50] Oliues. There was also Timber for building and shipping, and a very conuenient sea for a great Citie. All which commodities, that might haue allu ed the Souldiers to stay there, and to plant,

caused them to haste away, fearing lest Xenophon should 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some deuice to haue settled himselfe and them in that place. For the greater part of them had good meanes to liue at home, neither did they so much for hope of gaine follow Cyrus in that Warre, as in regard of his Honour, and the loue which they bare vnto him: the poorer sort were such as left the Parents, Wiues, and Children, to whom (though failing of the riches which they had hoped to purchase) they were now desirous to returne. But whether it were so that Xenophon found aduantage by their owne superstition, to make them stay, which they greatly suspected; or whether 〈◊〉〈◊〉 signes appearing in the entrailes, did indeede forbid their departure: so long they were inforced to abide in the place till victualls failed, neither would [unspec 10] the Captaines leade them forth to forrage the Countrie, vntill the Sacrifices should promise good successe. Cherisophus was dead of an Ague, and his ships were gone, being returned to the Heracleans, of whom they were borrowed. His followers were joyned to the rest of the Armie, which the greater it was, the more prouision it needed, and the sooner felt want. For which cause, he that was chosen Coronell into the place of Cherisophus, would needs aduenture to gratifie the Souldiers with the spoile of some Villages that stood neere at hand; in which enterprise he found ill successe, the whole Countrie lying in waite to entrap him, and an Armie of Horse being sent by Pharnabazus the Satrapa, or Vice-roy of Phrygia, to the assistance of these 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Thracians, which troupes falling vpon the Greekes that were scat∣tered [unspec 20] abroade in seeking bootie, slew fiue hundred of them, and chased the rest to a certaine Mountaine thereby. The newes of this ouerthrow comming to Xenophon, he led forth a part of the Armie to the rescue of those that suruiued, and brought them safe to the Campe; vpon which the Bythinians made an offer that night, and breaking a Corps du garde, slew some, pursuing the rest to the very Tents. This new courage of the enemie, together with the present condition of the Armie, so disheartened and vnfurnished of necessaries, caused the Greekes to remoue their Campe to a place of more strength; which hauing intrenched, and committed to the defence of such as were least able to indure trauaile, Xenophon with the firmest and best able men went forth, both to burie those which were lately slaine, and to [unspec 30] abate the pride of the Thracians, and their Assistants. In this journey his demea∣nour was very Honourable. For hauing giuen buriall to the dead, the Enemie was discouered, lying on the tops of the Hills adjoyning, to whom (notwithstan∣ding 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the way was very rough, and troublesome, so that some thought it a matter of too great danger, to leaue at their backes a wood scarce passeable) hee marched directly, telling his men plainely, that hee had rather follow the enemie with halfe the number, than turne his back to them with twice as many, and letting them further know, that if they did not charge the Barbarian, hee would 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the greater resolution to pursue them; from whom if they could safely re∣tire to the campe, yet what should they doe there, wanting victualls to sustaine [unspec 40] them in the place, and ships, to carrie them away? wherefore hee willed them ra∣ther to fight well that day, hauing eaten their dinners, than an other day fasting; and not to regard the vneasie returne, which might serue to stay Cowards from running away, but to wish vnto the Enemie a faire and easie way, by which hee might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from them. These perswasions were followed with so valiant execu∣tion, that both Persians and Bythinians being chased out of the field, abandoned the Countrie forthwith, remouing their Families, and leauing all that could not sodainely bee conueighed away, to the discretion of the Greekes, who at good leisure gathered the haruest of these bad Neighbours fields. This was the last fight which they had on the side of Asia. For they were not only suffered quietly [unspec 50] to enjoy the spoile of the Countrie, but when the opinion grew common in those parts, that it was the intent of Xenophon to plant a Colonie on the Port of Calpas, Embassadours were sent from the Neighbour people, to desire friendship, and

make 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of their best assistance. But the Souldiers had no minde to stay. Wher∣fore entring further into Bythinia, they tooke a great bootie, which they carried a∣way to Chrysopolis, a Citie neere vnto Chalcedon, where they sold it. Pharnabazus, Lieutenant in Phrygia to Artaxerxes, did greatly feare, lest their long stay in that Countrie might breede in them a desire to visite his Prouince, where they might haue found great wealth, and little power to guard it. Therefore he sent to the Lacedaemonian Admirall, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him with much instance and large promises to waft them ouer into Europe; to whom Anaxibius the Admirall condescending, promised to giue the Souldiers pay, as soon as they arriued at Bizantium. So 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they carried out of Asia at the intreatie of the Persian, who in the height of his [unspec 10] pride had thought them so surely imprisoned with mighty Riuers, that he not on∣ly denied to permit their quiet departure, but willed them to surrender their Armes into his hands, and so to yeeld their liues to his discretion. How discourte∣ously they were intreated by Anaxibius, and how to requite his injurious dealings, they seized vpon Bizantium, which by Xenophous perswasion they forbare to sacke, I hold it superfluous to relate. For the residue of their doings appertaine little to the generall course of things. But this expedition, as in all ages it was glorious, so did it both discouer the secrets of Asia, and stirre vp the Greekes to thinke vpon greater enterprises, than euer their forefathers had vndertaken. Likewise it was the only remarkable action which the time affoorded. For the Roman warres did hi∣therto [unspec 20] extend no further than to the next neighbouring Townes of Italie; and in Greece all things were quiet, the Lacedaemonians ruling insolently, but without di∣sturbance. True it is, that the seedes of the Warre shortly following, which the Lacedaemonians made vpon Artaxerxes, were already sowne, before these companies returned out of the high Countries of Asia. For the Townes of Ionia, which had sided with yong Cyrus against Tissaphernes, if not against the great King, prepared to rebell, which they thought safer, than to fall into the hands of Tissaphernes, who was now appointed Lieutenant, both of his old Prouince, and of all that had belonged to Cyrus. Wherefore the Ionians besought the Lacedaemonians to send them aide, whereby to recouer [unspec 30] their libertie; and obtained their request.

For a power was sent ouer, vnder conduct of Thimbro a Spartan, who bestowed his men in such Townes as had already reuolted, to secure the Cities and their Fields, but not to make any offen∣siue Warre. [unspec 40] [unspec 50]

Notes

• * 1.1

  Trabisond a Colonie of the Greekes, situate in the bottome of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sea.
• a 1.2

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Nation of Pon∣tus Cappadocicus
• b 1.3

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Port Towne in the same Region.
• c 1.4

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Port-Towne in Leucolyria, a Colonie of the Mylesians.