Britain, or A chorographicall description of the most flourishing kingdomes, England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the ilands adjoyning, out of the depth of antiquitie beautified vvith mappes of the severall shires of England: vvritten first in Latine by William Camden Clarenceux K. of A. Translated newly into English by Philémon Holland Doctour in Physick: finally, revised, amended, and enlarged with sundry additions by the said author.

[illustration]

HIBERNIAE IRELAND Anglis. YVERDON BRITANNIS ERIN in••elis. IERNA Orphaeo & Arist. IRIS Diodoro Siculo IVVERNA Iuuelalj IOYERNIA Ptol.

[illustration]

IRELAND, AND THE SMALLER ILANDS IN THE BRITISH OCEAN.

[ A]

[ B] THE BRITISH OCEAN.

[ C] NOw have I rather passed over than throughly surveied all BRITAIN, namely, those two most flourishing Kingdomes, ENGLAND and SCOTLAND: And whereas I am now to crosse the seas for IRELAND, and the rest of the Isles, if I premise some few lines touching the British sea,* 1.1 I hope it shal not seem a crooked course, or an extravagāt digression. BRITAIN is encompassed round about with the vast open and main O∣cean, which ebbeth and floweth so violently with main tides, that, as Pytheas of Marsiles hath reported,* 1.2 it swelleth 80. cubits about Britaine: and St. Ba∣sile hath tearmed it Mare Magnum, &c. The great sea and dreadfull to [ D] Sailers: yea and S. Ambrose wrote thus of it; The great sea not adven∣tured on by sailers,* 1.3 nor attempted by Mariners, is that which with a roaring and surging current environeth Britaine, and reacheth into far remote parts, and so hidden out of sight, as that the fables have not yet come hither. Certes this sea sometimes overfloweth the fields adjoining, otherwhiles again it retireth & leaveth all bare: and that I may use the words of Plinie, by reason of this open largenesse, it feeleth more effectually the force and influence of the Moone, exercising her power thereupon without impeach∣ment: and it floweth alwaies up within the land with such violence, that it [ E] doth not onely drive back the streames of rivers, but also either overtaketh and surpriseth beasts of the land, or else leaveth behind it those of the sea. For there have bin seen in everie age, to the great astonishment of the beholders, so many and so huge Seamonsters left on dry land on our shore, that Horace sang this note not without good cause:

Belluosus qui remotis Obstrepit Oceanus Britannis. The Ocean of sea-monsters fraight with store, Upon the Britans farre remote doth roare.

[ F] And Juvenal in the like tune.

Quanto Delphino Balaena Britannica major. As much as Whales full huge, that use to breed In British Sea, the Dolphins doe exceed.

And so great an adventure and exploit it was thought, but to crosse only this [ A] our sea, that Libanius the Grecian sophister, in a Panegy••icall oration unto Constantinus Chlorus, cried out in these words: 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉: that is, This voiage into Britain seemed comparable to the greatest triumph.* 1.4 And Julius Firmicus, not that famous Astrologer, but another that was a Christian, in a little treatise of the errour of profane re∣ligions, written unto the Emperours Constans & Constantius, brake out in∣to this exclamation. In winter time (a thing that never was done before, nor ever will be done again) ye trampled under your oares the swelling [ B] and raging billowes of the British Ocean. The waves of the sea, un∣known in a manner before times unto us, then trembled and quaked, and the Britans were terrified at the sudden presence of the Emperor: What will ye more? the verie elements yeelded themselves as conque∣red unto your valerous vertues.

The famous learned man Julius Scaliger in his Poeticalls, affirmeth that Caurus the North-west winde ariseth and bloweth out of this British sea,* 1.5 and that against the opinion of Lucan, who wrote thus: [ C]

Primus ab Oceano caput exeris Atlantaeo, Caure, movens aestus.

From Ocean call'd Atlantick, Caur thou first Thy head dost shew, making seas fell and curst.

Certes in Ireland he keeps foule work, and plaies the tyrant; and Caesar wri∣teth [ D] that a great part of the yeere he stands in this coast.

But whereas some write that in this our sea ships were first devised & used, I am not disposed to beleeve them. But Plinie witnesseth that the Britans used small wicker vessels,* 1.6 covered over with hides (which at this day they tearm Cor∣raghs) and with Plinie accordeth Lucan, who versifieth in this wise.

Primùm cana salix madefacto vimine parvam Texitur in puppim, caesóque induta juvenco, Vectoris patiens tumidum super emicat amnem: [ E] Sic Venetus stagnante Pado, fusoque Britannus Navigat Oceano.

At first wet twigges of willow grey, that long in soake had laine, And covered over close with hide of Oxe or Bullocke slaine, (But wrought before unto the forme of little barke or boat) Used to carrie passengers, the swelling streames afloat. Thus over Po, that river large, sailes the Venetian, [ F] And thus the Britan maketh way upon the spacious Ocean.

Semblably Solinus Polyhistor. In the sea between Britain and Ireland they saile in wicker bottomes, which they cover round about with

[ A] Oxe hides. And how long soever as the course holdeth, so long the sai∣lers forbeare food.

As for the commodities which this sea affordeth, the warmth whereby it comforteth and cherisheth the earth, the vapours wherewith it nourisheth the aire, and bedeweth the fields: touching also the great varietie of fishes that it breedeth, as Salmons (which Bede calleth Isicios, as Plinie Esox) Plaice, Pungers, Cods, Hadocks, Whitings, Herrings, Basse, Maccarell, Mullets, Tur∣bits, Seales or Sea-calves, Rochets, Soles, Pilchards, Raifish or Scale, Thorn∣back, [ B] Oisters, Lobsters, Crab-fish, and an infinite number of others, whereof it maintaineth and feedeth innumerable skuls and beds, it is not materiall to speake,* 1.7 they are so well knowne. Yet the pearles are not to bee overpassed in si∣lence, which King Jubas reporteth to be shaped round, and to swim in the Bri∣tish sea by flockes or swarmes, in manner of bees, following their Captaine and Leader.

And Marcellinus, when he had spoken of the Persian and Indian pearles; which kind of gemme (saith he) we are not ignorant to be engendred [ C] and gathered in the creekes of the British sea, although they bee not of that beautie and worth. Which although they be accounted by Plinie small ones, and ill coloured, yet Suetonius writeth, that Caesar made his voiage into Britaine in hope of them; and that they were of such bignesse, as he took the peise of some of them by hand, and dedicated a brest-plate made of them unto Venus Genitrix, which he also witnessed by a subscription. Origen likewise as touching these pearles writeth thus: Sea-pearles, such as be most nota∣ble, are found among the Indians, but the best are bred in the Red sea: In the next place are those pearles which are taken in the British Oce∣an: [ D] but of a third sort, and inferiour in goodness not to those first only, but also to these of the second degree, are they that be found in Bospho∣rus neere Scythia. And after a few lines: But that kind which they say is gotten in Britain, for the superficiall colour verily somwhat resembleth a golden hew, but cloudie it is and troubled, and for the lustre with the dimmest Furthermore, our Venerable Bede writing of the Shell-fishes of this our sea: Among them (saith hee) there be * 1.8 Muscles, wherein they find enclosed oftentimes the best pearle of all colours, of purple, [ E] violet, and greene, but especially of bright white. There be cochles al∣so in exceeding great abundance, wherewith they die a scarlet colour: the most beautifull red hew whereof, no heat of sunne, nor injurie of raine is ever able to make pale; but the * 1.9 older it is, the fairer it shew∣eth. And Tertullian reproving the lavish expence and superfluitie in his time: If ambitious pride (saith he) may be maintained from the British or Indian seas, there is a kind of shell-fish more pleasant in taste, I say not than the purple fish or oister, but than the very scallop it selfe.

[ F] This sea, which generally is called MARE BRITANNICUM, and OCEA∣NUS CALEDONIUS, according to the divers situation of places hath sundry and distinct names.

Eastward, where it hath Germanie opposite unto it, they call it the GERMAN [ A] sea: Northward, it is tearmed the Hyberborean sea, which ancient writers reported untruely, to be dead, dull, and heavie for the oare, and in that respect not raised with winds: and Tacitus beleeved it was so, belike, because, as he writeth, the Lands and Mountaines be rare, which mini∣ster cause and matter of tempests, and for that a deep masse of continuat sea is more slowly stirred to work and rage. On the West side it is named OCEANUS DEUCALEDONIUS, and VERGIVIUS, both South and West from Ireland: but all the way that it runneth between Britain and Ireland, the HI∣BERNICUS, [ B] that is,* 1.10 Irish sea, and by Sea-men at this day S. Georges Chanel, And ancient writers have recorded that it rageth all the yeer long, with surging billowes and counter seas, and never is at rest nor navigable, unlesse it be in some few summer daies. But Southward, where it inter∣floweth France and Britain, it is properly called the BRITISH sea, and by the common mariners, the Chanel, by English sailers the SLEEVE; and in the same sense Le Manche in French, because it groweth narrow in manner of a sleeve. And this name of the BRITISH sea extended as farre as to Spaine, as [ C] writeth Pomponius Mela,* 1.11 being himselfe also a Spaniard, where he repor∣teth that the Pyrene Mountain runneth forth into the BRITISH OCEAN.

Moreover, there be certain Ilands, which, as it were for a shew, Nature hath be sprinkled along these seas, fewer toward the East and South parts, but West∣ward and Northward more in number. For there, by their thick standing to∣gether, they do after a sort garnish the sea, yea and depaint it as it were with their colours, in most pleasant sort. But for as much as Ireland farre excelleth all the rest, in regard of the greatnesse thereof and frequencie of resort there∣to, [ D] it requireth by due right, that it should first be treated of.

[ E] [ F]

[ A]

HIBERNIA, IRELAND.

IN the Vergivian sea,* 1.12 which name is derived, not à vergendo, that is, of bending towards, as some are of opinion, but of Mor-weridh; [ B] for this name the Britans gave it: or else of Farigi, by which name the Irish men call it, the most famous Iland HIBERNIA, that is to say, IRELAND, encloseth the West side of Britain; an Iland which in times past challenged the third place amongst all the Isles of the then knowne world. For thus as touching Ilands writeth the an∣cient Geographer. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉:* 1.13 that is, Of all Ilands for greatnesse the Indian TAPRO∣BANE is prime and principall; next after it BRITAINE; and in a third degree another British Iland, named HIBERNIA, that is, Ireland; and thereupon Ptolomee called it LITTLE BRITAIN.

This Isle by Orpheus, Aristotle, and Claudian is named IERNA; by Iuvenal & [ C] Mela JUVERNA; by Diodorus Siculus IRIS; by Martian of Heraclea JOYEPNIA; by Eustathius OYERNIA and BERNIA; by the native inhabitants Erin; by the Britans Yuerdon, and of English men Ireland. Whence these names have had their originall, sundry and divers opinions have beene conceived from time to time, as in a doubtfull matter. Some derive Hibernia from Hiberno tempore, that is, from the Winter season; others from Hiberus a Spaniard; and some againe from the river Iberus: the author of the booke entituled Eulogium, from Duke Irnalph: Postellus, a fancifull man, when he read Pomponius Mela publikely in Paris, because hee would seeme to have a reach beyond other men, fetcheth the originall thereof from the Hebrewes: so that Irin should bee as much as Iurin, that is, the Jewes land: The [ D] Iewes, forsooth saith he, being most wise Sages, and learned Philosophers, knowing by their learning that the Empire of the world should be setled in the strongest Angle, which lieth West, seized upon those parts, and Ireland with the first: The Syrians also and Tyri∣ans, to lay the foundation of their future Empire, endevoured all they could to inhabite those Regions. Pardon me I pray you if I dare not subscribe hereto, no nor give my consent to that opinion most received, as touching the Winter season aforesaid: al∣though I have read, that in this Iland the aire upon every winde is cold and win∣terlike. As for Hibernia, Iuverna, and Ouernia, they came doubtlesse from IER∣NA, spoken of by Orpheus and Aristotle: and the same Ierna, as also Iris, Yuerdhon, and Ireland, from Erin, the tearme that the inhabitants use. From this Erin there∣fore, [ E] a word proper unto the nation, the originall must be deduced. Here I, with those great Philosophers, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 that is, hold off and suspend my judgement: neither know I what to divine and ground my conjecture upon, unlesse peradventure that name may come from Hiere, an Irish word, which with them signifieth the West, or a Western coast; whence Erin may seeme to bee derived, as one would say, a Western countrey. Of this opinion have I been a good while since, induced there∣to with my owne conceit and flattering conjecture, both because it lieth furthest Westward of any region in all Europe (as being no more than twelve degrees di∣stant from the utmost West point) as also for that the river running in the most re∣mote [ F] West part of this Iland, is in Ptolomee called IERNUS, like as the Promonto∣rie or Cape bearing out farthest West in Spaine (from whence our Irish-men came) is named by Strabo IERNE, and as the next river unto it, which also is most West of all the rivers in Spaine, is called by Mela IERNA. Moreover, by reason of the We∣stern situation Spaine is named Hesperia, and that West Cape in Africk, Hesperium

cornu, yea and even in Germanie these countries, Westrich, Westphalen, &c. have [ A] their denomination from that position and site: so that it is no marvaile if Ireland were tearmed Erin of the Western situation. Besides, these names of Ireland which I have spoken of, the Irish Bards or Poets have usually taken up in their ballads these tearmes, Tirvolas, Totidanan, and Banno, as the most ancient names of this Iland, but upon what reason I wot not,* 1.14 unlesse Banno were that Bannomanna which Plinie men∣tioneth out of Timaeus, whiles his pen coasteth along the outmost sides and skirts of Europe, and the shore of the Northren Ocean on the left hand from Scythia, even as farre as Cadis in Spaine. For what countrey that same Bannomanna should bee, the Geographers have not yet found out But Biaun in Irish signifieth Sacred or Ho∣ly, [ B] and verily Festus Av••enus calleth Ireland SACRAM INSULAM,* 1.15 that is, The holy Iland, in that little booke intituled ORAE MARITIMAE, that is, The Sea coasts, which he compiled out of most ancient Geographers: namely, Hecataeus of Miletum, Hellanicus of Lesbos, Philaeus of Athens, Caryandaeus, Pausymachus of Samos, Dama∣stus, Euctemon, and others. But I will write downe his verses: for when he had spo∣ken of the Ilands Ostrymides, thus he versifieth:

Ast hinc duobus in SACRAM, sic insulam Dixêre prisci, solibus cursus rati est. Haec inter undas multum cespitem jacit, [ C] Eamque latè gens Hibernorum colit. Propinqua rursus insula Albionum patet.

But to the SACRED Isle (for so They us'd to call it long agoe) From hence a course who so desires, Just two dayes sailing it requires. Much turfe it casts the waves among, And Irish dwell therein along. Now very neere to it againe, [ D] The Albions Isle is kenned plaine.

* 1.16If that OGYGIA, which Plutarch placed on the West side of our Britaine were not 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, but 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, not a vaine dreame, but a matter in truth, hee may seeme by that name plainly to point at Ireland, although the reports that he so sadly telleth of it, be meer poeticall fictions & Milesian toies. Neither can any man readily tell, why they called it Ogygia; unlesse haply of the antiquitie: For the Grecians tearmed nothing by the name of Ogygia but that which was very ancient. And Robert Constantine see∣meth to have shot wide all the world over,* 1.17 when he affirmeth that CERNE, men∣tioned in Lycophron, was our Ireland: for Lycophron himselfe, and Tzetzes that com∣menteth [ E] upon him, doe place Cerne toward the sunne rising: and all the best learned men thinke it to be Madagascar, situated as it were in another world, right under the Tropique of Capricorne, right over against Aethiopia. Thus much touching the names of Ireland, yet so, as we remember withall to take this by the way, that in these later times it was called also SCOTIA,* 1.18 that is, Scotland by Isidor and Bede, of the Scots who inhabited it: and that thence the name of Scotland, together with the Scots themselves, came into Britaine. But of this we have spoken alreadie once before, and therefore have no cause to repeat here.

This Iland is stretched out from South to North not broader than it is long, as Strabo hath recorded, but shaped in forme of a lentile, or an egge; nor of twentie [ F] dayes sailing, as Philemon in Ptolomee hath set it downe: but according to the later writers,* 1.19 it taketh up three hundred miles and no more in length, and is scarcely one hundred and twentie miles broad. On the East side it hath England severed from it with a troublous and tempestuous sea, which is called the Irish sea: on the West the

[ A] huge maine Western Ocean; on the North the Deucaledonian sea, and on the South the Vergivian sea worketh upon it.

The country,* 1.20 if you would heare Giraldus Cambrensis to speak, is uneven, full of hils, soft, waterish, and boggie, wild and overgrowne with woods, lying open to the winds, and so full of meeres or loghs, that a man may see ponds and standing waters even upon the mountaines. The aire (as Mela saith) is nothing good and favourable for ripening of corn: but the ground is so ranke of grasse, and the same not onely fresh and long, but sweet also withall, that the cattell may fill their bellies in a small piece of the day, and unlesse they be kept from grazing,* 1.21 and not suffered to feed long together, their bellies will burst. Hence [ B] it is that they have such an infinite number of cattell, as being indeed the chiefe and principall wealth of the inhabitants, and many goodly flockes of sheepe, which they sheare twice a yeere,* 1.22 and make of their course wooll, rugges or shagge mantles, cad∣dowes also or coverlets, which are vented into forraine countries. They have like∣wise excellent good horses (we tearme them Hobbies) which have not the same pace that other horses in their course, but a soft and round amble, setting one legge be∣fore another very finely. Their haukes also are right commendable, but these, as all other living creatures (besides men, women, and greyhounds) are smaller here than in England. Now as well the aire as the ground is excessive moist; whence it is that very many there be sore troubled with loosenesse, and rheumes,* 1.23 but strangers espe∣cially: [ C] yet for the staying of the same they have an * 1.24 Aqua vitae of the best, which inflameth a great deale lesse, and dryeth much more than ours. Whereas Giraldus writeth, that those which are borne here sick en never of any of the three kinds of feavers, it is daily found by experience to be false. As for the land it selfe (that I may use the testimonie here of the said Giraldus) it is of all countries most temperate; neither doth any frying heat of Cancer drive folke to seeke shade, nor chilling cold of Capricorne call them in to the fire: but all times in maner, by reason of the pleasantnesse and tempe∣rate disposition of the aire, have a gentle kinde of warmth.

Of Bees there are such numbers, that they bee found not onely in hives, but also within the bodies of trees, and holes of the earth. Likewise it hath vines, but more [ D] for shade,* 1.25 than for any fruit they yeeld. For no sooner is the sunne passed out of Leo, but cold blasts here in this our climat are wont presently to follow, and in Autumne the after-noone heats are lesse effectuall and shorter, both here and in our Britaine, than to give the full and kinde ripening unto Grapes. Besides this, there is no snake in this countrey, nor any venemous thing whatsoever: howbeit much noisance they have every where by wolves. And that I may speake all at a word, whether a man respect the fertilitie of the soil, or the commodiousnesse of sea and havens, or the in∣habitants themselves, who are stout, hardie, warlike, wittie, proper men of bodie, and goodly feature, of a wondrous soft skin, by reason also of the tendernesse of muscles passing nimble; the Iland aboundeth in so many blessings, that Giraldus said [ E] not without just cause, That nature had cast into this Western kingdome of Zephirus, a more gracious eye than ordinarie. Now that otherwhiles there goeth of it an ill name, it is for that the inhabitants are in some places wilde and very uncivill, who in a mar∣vellous contrarietie of nature, both love idlenesse, and withall hate quietnesse: who al∣so are immoderately given to fleshly lust, and that over soone. For among the wil∣der sort they bestow their maidens in marriage, as ripe and readie for husbands, when they be once ten or twelve yeeres of age. Neither will they by any meanes stay for a competent maturitie of yeeres, a thing observed in all other countries. But as tou∣ching the manners and qualities of the Irish nation, I will discourse more at large in the end of this booke. And now, if it please you, give Ireland the hearing, whiles she [ F] speaketh of her selfe and her commodities, in these verses of that most learned man Hadrianus Iunius.

Illa ego sum Graiis olim glacialis Ierne Dicta, & Iasoniae puppis bene cognita nautis: Quae Tarthessiaco propior se tingere soles

Flumine conspicio, Cauro subjecta procaci: [ A] Cui Deus, & melior rerum nascentium origo Ius commune dedit cum Creta altrice tonantis, Noxia ne nostris diffundant sibila in oris Terrificae creti tabo Phorcynidos angues: Et fortè illati compressis faucibus atris Viroso pariter vitam cum sanguine ponant. En ego cum regni sceptro, Mavortia bello Pectora, & horriferas hominum, nil fingo, figuras, Qui cursu alipedes norint praevertere cervos, [ B] Dedico, piscososque lacus, volucrumque paludes Omnigenum lustris foetas, stannique fodinas, Et puri argenti venas, quas terra refossis Visceribus manes imos visura recludit. I am that frozen Isle, which Greekes once did Ierne call, Well knowne to Argo Jasons ship, and to her sailers all. Which subject unto Caurus curst have sunne more neer in sight, When in Tartessus floud he sets and seemes to drench his light. Whom God and better Nature hath secured from this feare (A gift imparted eke to Crete which Jupiter did reare) [ C] That snakes of grim Medusa's blood so filthie that were bred, Should dare in these my coasts to hisse, and hurtfull venome spred. And say, that some by chance there were brought thither of that brood, Throtled anon they lose at once their life with poison'd bloud. Lo here with regall scepter I present most martiall mindes, And dreadfull shapes (I fable not) of men who harts and hindes So swift of foot in running can out-strip and leave behind. With fishfull lakes besides and fennes, where fowles of everie kinde Their eiries have and harbours safe: moreover Delfes of tin, Rich Mines likewise of silver pure, which wondrous farre within [ D] The earth hath kept, whose bowels now digg'd up for men to prie, As if she meant even hell to see, she shew's them to the eye.

* 1.26If that be true which the Irish Historiographers record, this Iland was not with∣out cause by Plutarch tearmed Ogygia, that is, very ancient. For they fetch the be∣ginning of their histories from the most profound and remote records of antiquitie, so that in comparison of them, the antientness of all other nations is but novelty, and, as it were, a matter of yesterday. They write that one Caesaria Noah his Niece, inha∣bited it before Noahs flood: Then that Bartholanus a Scythian came hither about three hundred yeeres after the said Noahs flood, and fought right doughtie battels with giants: That many yeeres after Nemethus a Scythian arrived here, and forth∣with [ E] was cast out by the Giants: After this, that Dela with certaine Grecians seized upon this Island; and soone after, that Gaothel with Scota his wife, daughter to Pha∣raoh King of Egypt landed here, and nominated after his wives name the Island Sco∣tia, and according to his owne name the language Gaothela; and that, about the time of the Israelites departure out of Egypt. And the British historie reporteth how some few ages after, Hiberus and Hermion (Ever and Erimon the Irish writers terme them) the sonnes of Milesius King of Spaine, by the sufferance of Gurguntius King of the Britans, planted colonies in this countrey, after it had beene dispeopled by a pestilence. My purpose is not either to averre these reports for true, nor yet to refute them: In such things as these let Antiquitie bee pardonable, and enjoy a pre∣rogative. [ F]

Surely, as I doubt not but that this Island became inhabited even of old time, when as man-kinde was spred over all quarters of the world: so it is evident, that the first inhabitants thereof passed thither out of our Britaine: For (to say no∣thing of an infinite number of British words in the Irish tongue, together with the

[ A] ancient names which favour of a British originall);* 1.27 the natures of the people, and their fashions, as Tacitus saith, differ not much from Britain: of all ancient writers it is cal∣led A British Iland: Diodorus Siculus termed Irin a part of Britaine: and Ptolomee named the same BRITANNIA PARVA, that is, little Britaine, as you may see, if you list to compare his Geographickes with his book of Great Construction. And the Epi∣tome of Strabo calleth the inhabitants in plaine words, BRITANS: the old Geo∣graphers also named it The Britans Iland: yea and Festus Aveienus sheweth this out of Dionysius Afer, when he treateth of British Ilands, in these verses.

[ B] Eminus hic aliae gelidi prope flabra Aquilonis Exuperant undas, & vasta cacumina tollunt, Hae numero geminae, pingues sola, cespitis ampli, Conditur occidui quà Rheni gurgitis unda, Dira Britannorum sustentant agmina terris. Here other Islands neere unto the chilling North winds blast, The waves of sea surmount aloofe, and shew their mountaines vast, In number twaine, their soile is fat, their ground both large and wide What way the Western Rhene his gulfe and waters deepe doth hide: These Lands fierce Britan troups maintaine, and thereon they abide.

[ C]

Neither is there any other countrey, out of which by reason of the vicinitie they might passe over more commodiously into Ireland than out of Britaine: from whence there is the like passage thither, in respect of the space of sea betweene, as is out of France into Britaine. But afterwards, when the Romanes had enlarged their Empire every way, many there were no doubt who out of Spaine, Gaule, and Britaine withdrew themselves hither, that they might shake off that intolerable yoke of the Romans slaverie: Neither do some otherwise understand these words of Tacitus: Ireland being situate in the middest betweene Spaine and Britanie, lying also very fitly for the French sea, would aptly have united, to the great use & advantage of the [ D] one and the other, the strongest members of the Empire together: the landing places and ports whereof, by entercourse of trafficke, were better known than those of Britain. And albeit Iulius Agricola also kept with him a pettie King or Prince of Ireland, who was driven thence by occasion of civill dissention, that hee might have the more advan∣tageous opportunitie thereby to invade the Island, which he thought would be sub∣dued and held with a legion, and a small power of aide forces; and was perswaded withall, that the same would availe much for the affaires of Britaine, in case the Ro∣man forces were planted everie where, and hope of libertie banished, as it were, farre out of sight: yet wee read not that the Romans gave any attempt that way. Not∣withstanding some are verily perswaded that they assaied the conquest of it, and doe [ E] gather the same hardly out of this place of Iuvenal.

—Arma quid ultra Littora Iuvernae promovimus, & modò captas Orcadas, & minimâ contentos nocte Britannos? Why warred we past Irish coasts, and the Orkneis lately wonne, Beyond the Britans eke that have least night and longest Sunne?

Yet the Panegyricall oration pronounced before Constantius the Emperour, implieth that Ireland was under his government: Britaine (saith he) is so recovered, that even [ F] those nations also which join upon the coasts of the same Island, are become subject and o∣bedient unto your command. Also we find written in the Chronicles of later historians, that Ireland, together with Britain and Thule, at the division of the Empire fell unto Constantine,* 1.28 the sonne of Constantine the Great. And that very fond fable of Caesa∣rea Noahs Niece, carrieth before it the name of Caesars, so as that therein may seeme covertly couched the comming of some Caesar into Ireland. Howbeit I can hardly

perswade my selfe to beleeve, that this countrey at any time became subject to the [ A] Romans.* 1.29 But a blessed and happie turne had it beene for Ireland, if it had at any time beene under their subjection: surely, it had then beene reduced from barbarisme to civilitie. For wheresoever the Romans were victors, they brought them whom they conquered to civilitie: neither verily in any place else throughout Europe was there any civilitie, learning, and elegance, but where they ruled. And very inconsiderately also they may seeme to have neglected this Island. For from hence (to the plague and spoile of Britaine) brake out most dangerous enemies: which August•••• seemeth to have foreseene, when he tooke so small care of Britaine, for the danger which hee presaged to hover and approach from the nations round about adjoyning. But when [ B] the Roman Empire began now to decay, the nation of the Scots or Scythians (for, in times past, as Strabo writeth, all people Westward were tearmed Celto-Scythae) grew mightie in Ireland, and began to be renowned. Furthermore, under the Emperours Honorius and Arcadius it was inhabited by the Scottish nations, as Orosius hath writ∣ten. Whereupon Claudian living in the same age wrote thus:

Scotorum cumulos flevit glacialis Ierne. Yce-frozen Ireland wept amaine, To see the Scots on heaps lye slaine.

And in another place, [ C]

—Totam cùm Scotus Hibernem Movit— What time as Scots did make, All Ireland armes to take.

For from hence it was that the Scots made their forcible invasions into Britaine, and hither they were otherwhiles with great losses and overthrowes repulsed. But whence they came into Ireland, Ninnius a disciple of Elvodugus, an author of good antiquitie, shall enforme you by his own words; who lived, as himselfe witnesseth, in the yeere 830. under Anaraugh King of Anglesey and Guineth, or North-Wales. For after he had related, that in the third age of the world the Britans came into Britain, [ D] and in the fourth age, the Scythians or Scots into Ireland, hee proceedeth thus: Last of all came the Scots,* 1.30 from the parts of Spain into Ireland. But the first that arrived there, was Partholanus, with a thousand men and women together, and they grew after to be four thousand: and there fell a mortalitie among them, so that in one week they all di∣ed, and there remained of them not so much as one alive. The second that landed in Ire∣land was one Nemeth, the son of Aguomenes, who, by report, sailed upon the sea one yeere and an halfe: and afterward, when he had suffered shipwrack, fell with an haven in Ire∣land, and he returned into Spain. And after that came three sonnes of a Spanish knight, with thirtie Ciules with them, and in every Ciule thirtie wives; and they continued there for the space of one yeere. Last of all came Elam-Hoctor, and dwelt there with all his pro∣genie [ E] and generation, even to this day. With this Ninnius accordeth Henry of Hun∣tingdon. The Britans (saith he) in the third age of the world came into Britain, and the Scots in the fourth into Ireland.

And how ever these reports be not most certaine, yet sure it is that they came out of Spaine into Ireland: and part of them departing thence, came and added a third nation unto the Britans & Picts in Britaine. The received opinion of the Irish is agreeable hereunto, for they most willingly acknowledge themselves to be an off spring of the Spaniards. Neither verily can it bee a marvaile, that a number of them withdrew themselves into Ireland out of the North part of Spaine, which, as S••rabo writeth, is most barren, and wherein men live most miserably. Out of those words of Ninnius [ F] a man may see, that those entries made of Bartholanus and Nemethus, which fabu∣lously they fetch so farre off, out of most profound and remote antiquitie, are to bee drawne backe unto later times. Neither is it needfull for me to note againe, that this Island was of the Scottish inhabitants called SCOTIA.

[ A] Not many yeeres after, these Scots in Ireland began to professe Christianitie, al∣though they would needs appropriate unto themselves that historie out of Rufinus, concerning the conversion of the Hiberians in Asia, and Celestin Pope of Rome sent unto these Scots Palladius the Bishop.* 1.31 Whereupon Prosper Aquitanus writeth in this maner against Collator. Celestin delivered the Britans from the Pelagians heresie, when he secluded certain enemies of grace, who held their own native countrey, even from that unknown part of the Ocean: and having ordained a Bishop among the Scots, whiles he la∣bo••red to keep an Iland of the Romans in the Catholike faith, he brought also a barbarous nation to be Christian. Yet Ninnius writeth, that Palladius being taken away by un∣timely [ B] death in Britaine, effected nothing: who also reporteth out of the Irish wri∣ters, that Christian religion was published and preached throughout Ireland by Saint Patrick. For he being a Britan borne, and that as some will in Cluidsdale, alli∣ed also to Sir Martin of Tourain, and a disciple of Saint German, was appointed suc∣cessour by Pope Celestin to Palladius deceased; who with so good successe taught and sowed the seed of Christian religion over all Ireland, that hee converted the greatest part by farre thereof unto Christ, and deserved the name of the Apostle of the Irish nation. Touching whom an ancient writer, Hierieus Ant••siodorensis in his booke of Saint Germans miracles; For as much as (saith he) the glory of a Father ap∣peareth bright in the governance of his owne sonnes, among many sons whom we beleeve [ C] St. German had in Christ, and Disciples in religion, it shall suffice by way of compendi∣ous brevitie to insert here the mention of one only, and the same of all others most famous: namely Patricke, as the whole course of his acts declareth, the peculiar Apostle of the Irish nation, wholly addicted for 18. yeeres unto his most holy discipline, out of the veine of so worthie a fountaine drew no mean knowledge & learning in the heavenly scriptures. Whom also that most divine and godly Bishop, considering to be in religion magnanimous, in vertues excellent, and in learning powerfull: and deeming it meere folly, that so strong and able an husbandman should live idle in the tillage and ordering of the Lords corn••∣field, directed him unto holy Celestine Pope of Rome, by Segetius a Priest of his, who should give testimonie unto the Apostolicall See, of Ecclesiasticall honestie in the behalfe of that [ D] right excellent man. Being therefore approved with the judgment, supported with the au∣thoritie, and lastly strengthened with the blessing of him, he made a voiage into Ireland, and being peculiarly appointed an Apostle of that nation, as he then lightned them with his doctrine & miracles, so now also and for ever adorneth them with wonderful priviled∣ges of his Apostleship.* 1.32 The Irish scholars of Patricke profited so notably in Christia∣nitie, that in the age next following, Ireland was tearmed Sanctoram-patria, that is, The native countrey of Saints; and the Scottish Monks in Ireland and Britaine highly excelled for their holinesse and learning, yea and sent out whole flockes of most de∣vout men into all parts of Europe, who were the first founders of Luxeul Abbey in Burgundie, of Bobie Abbey in Italy, of Wirtzburge Abbey in Francland, of St. Gallus [ E] in Sweitzerland, of Malmesburie, Lindisfarn, and of many other Monasteries in Bri∣taine. For out of Ireland came Caelius Sedulius a Priest, Columba, Columbane, Colman, Aidan, Gallus, Kithan, Maidulph, Brendan, and many other celebrated for their holy life and learning. Of these Monkes is that Hieric above named of Auxerre to be un∣derstood, when he writeth thus to the Emperour Charles the Bald: What should I speake of Ireland, which setting light by the dangers of sea, flitteth all of it well neere with whole flockes of Philosophers unto our shores? of whom so many as are more skilfull and learned than the rest, doe voluntarily banish themselves, to attend dutifully upon the most wise Salomon, and be at his command.

This Monasticall profession, although but then newly come up, was farre diffe∣rent [ F] in those daies from that of our time. They desired to be that indeed which they were named to be: they were farre from colourable dealing or dissembling: Erred they in any thing? it was through simplicitie, not through lewdnesse, much lesse of wilfull obstinacie. As for wealth and these worldly things, they so highly contem∣ned them, that they did not onely not seeke after, but also refused the same, though they were offered unto them descended by inheritance. For a notable apophthegme

was that of Columbane (a Monke of Ireland) who, as the Abbat Walafride writeth, [ A] when Sigebert King of the Franckners dealt very earnestly with him, and that by way of many large and faire promises, that he should not depart out of his kingdome, answered him after the same sort, as Eusebius hath reported of Thaddeus, namely, That it be∣came not them to embrace other mens riches,* 1.33 who for Christs sake had forsaken their own. And the Bishops of Britain seemed no lesse to have despised riches, seeing they were so poore, that they had nothing of their owne. For, as we read in Sulpitius Severus, three Bishops of Britaine, in the Councell holden at Rimine, for want of their owne lived of the publick charges. The English Saxons also in that age conflowed and resorted from all parts into Ireland, as it were to the mart of good learning: and hence it is [ B] that we read so often in our writers, concerning holy men thus, Such a one was sent over into Ireland, for to be trained up in learning: and in the life of Sulgen, who flou∣rished 600. yeeres agoe.

Exemplo patrum commotus, amore legendi, Ivit ad Hibernos, sophiâ, mirabile, claros. The fathers old he following, for love to read good works, Went unto Irish men, who were (O wonder) famous Clarkes.

* 1.34And from thence it may seeme our forefathers the ancient English learned the [ C] manner of framing their letters, and of writing; considering that they used the selfe same character, which the Irish commonly use at this day.

And no cause have wee to marvaile that Ireland, which now for the most part is rude, halfe barbarous, and altogether voide of any polite and exquisite literature, was full of so devout, godly, & good wits in that age, wherein good letters through∣out all Christendome lay neglected and halfe buried, seeing that the divine pro∣vidence of that most gracious and almightie ruler of the world, soweth the seeds and bringeth forth the plants of sanctitie and good arts,* 1.35 one whiles in one nation and o∣ther whiles in another, as it were in garden beds and borders, and that in sundry a∣ges: which being removed and translated hither and thither, may by a new growth [ D] come up one under another, prosper, and bee preserved to his owne glory, and the good of mankinde.

But the outrage of warres by little and little quenched these hot affections and studies of holinesse and good literature. For in the yeere 644. after Christs nativi∣tie, Egfrid King of Northumberland with fire and sword made spoile and havocke of Ireland, a nation most friendly unto England; for which cause Bede chargeth him after a sort, in most grave and important tearmes. Afterward the Norwegians, under the leading of Turgese their Captaine, spoiled and wasted the countrey in most la∣mentable manner for the space of 30. yeeres: But when he was once slaine by a train and ambush laid for him, the inhabitants fell upon the Norwegians, and made such a [ E] bloodie massacre of them, that scarce any one survived to be a messenger of so great a slaughter. These Norwegians were no doubt those Normans, who, as Rhegino saith, in the time of Charles the great, setting upon Ireland, an Isle of the Scots, were by the Scots put to flight.* 1.36 After this the Oustmans, as one would say Esterlings, or Eastmen, came out of the sea-coasts of Germanie into Ireland; who having entred into certain Cities under the pretence of great trafficke, in a short space raised a most dangerous warre. About the very same time in manner, Eadgar that most puissant King of Eng∣land, conquered also a great part of Ireland: For thus we read in a certaine Charter of his: Unto whom God of his gracious favour hath granted, together with the Empire of England, dominion over all the kingdomes of the Isles lying in the Ocean, with their most [ F] stout and fierce Kings, even as farre as to Norway, yea and to subdue under the English Empire the greatest part of Ireland, with her most noble Citie Dublin.

After these tempestuous forraine warres were allaied, there followed a most grie∣vous storme of civill dissention at home, which made way for the English to con∣quer Ireland. For Henrie the second King of England, taking occasion and oppor∣tunitie,

[ A] by the privie dislikes, heart-burnings, and malicious emulations among the Irish Princes, grew into a serious deliberation with the Nobles of England, in the yeere of Salvation 1155. about the conquest of Ireland, for the behoof of his brother William of Anjou: But through the counsell of his mother Maude the Empresse, this project was rejected unto another time. Howbeit not many yeeres betweene, Der∣micius,* 1.37 the son of Murchard (Dermot Mac Morrog they call him) who reigned over the East part of Ireland, which in Latin is called Lagenia, and commonly Leinster, being for his tyrannie and lustfull leudnesse thrust out of his kingdome (for hee had ravished the wife of O Rorke, a pettie King of Meth) obtained aide and forces of Hen∣rie [ B] the second King of England, to be restored into his kingdome againe: and made a covenant with Richard Earle of Pembroch,* 1.38 surnamed Strongbow, of the house of Clare, that he for his part should aide him in the recovering of his Kingdome, and that himselfe would assure unto the Earle, together with his daughter Eva, the said Kingdome in succession after him. Hereupon the said Earle having forthwith muste∣red up and raised an armie of Welsh and English together, and joined unto him to accompanie him in the warres, the Fitz-Giralds, Fitz-Stephans, and other Gentle∣men out of England and Wales, restored his father in law Dermot into his former Kingdome againe: and within few yeeres gat by conquest so great a part of Ireland into his owne hands, that his power became now suspected to the King of England; [ C] who by proclamation, and that with grievous menaces, recalled home the said Earle and his followers out of Ireland, and unlesse they obeyed without delay, pronounced them traitours, and their goods confiscate. Whereupon the Earle granted unto the King by covenant and writing, whatsoever he either inherited in right of his wife, or won with his sword, and as his tenant in vassailage received from him the Earldomes of Weisford,* 1.39 Ossorie, Caterlogh, and Kildare, with certain Castles. Then King Henrie the second, having gathered a power together in the yeere of Christ 1172. sailed over in∣to Ireland, and obtained the Princely title of soveraigne rule of the Iland.

For the States of Ireland passed over unto him all their rule and power,* 1.40 namely, Rothericke O Conor Dun, that is, The Browne, Monarch of Ireland, Dermot Mac Carti King of Corke, Donald O Bren King of Limi••icke, O Carell King [ D] of Uriel, Macshaglin King of Ophaly, O Rorke King of Meth, O Neale King of Ulster, with the rest of the Nobles and their people, and the same under their Charters sub∣scribed, signed, delivered, and transmitted to Rome. Which was ratified and confir∣med moreover by a Patent of Pope Hadrian, by a ring delivered unto him in token of his investiture, and also by the authoritie of certaine Provinciall Synods. This King Henrie afterward delivered up the Seigniorie of Ireland, into the hands of his sonne Iohn; which conveiance Pope Urban confirmed by his Bull, and in testimonie of his confirmation sent him a Coronet of Peacocks feathers broided and embroidered with gold. Whom, after hee was once established in his Kingdome, divers authors af∣firme to have granted by his Charter or Patent, Ireland and England both unto [ E] the Church of Rome, to be held of it ever after in fee, and to have received it againe from the Church, as a Feudatarie: also to have bound his successours to pay three hundred Markes unto the Bishop of Rome: But that most worthie and famous Sir Thomas Moore, who tooke the Popes part even unto death, affirmeth this to be false: For hee writeth that the Romanists can shew no such grant; that they never demanded the foresaid money, and that the Kings of England never acknowled∣ged it. But by his leave, as great a man as hee was, the case stood otherwise, as evi∣dently appeareth by the Parliament Records, the credit whereof cannot bee im∣pugned. For in an assembly of all the States of the Realme, in the reigne of Edward the third, the Lord Chancellour of England proposed and related, that the Pope [ F] would judicially sue the King of England, as well for the Homage as the tribute, which was to be yeelded for England and Ireland, to the performance whereof King Iohn in times past had obliged himselfe and his successours: and of this point which hee put to question, required their opinion. The Bishops desired to have a day by them selves for to consult about this matter: the Nobles likewise and the people or Com∣munaltie.

The day after, they all met, and with one generall accord ordained and [ A] enacted: That for asmuch as neither King Iohn, nor any other King whatsoever, could im∣pose such servitude upon the Kingdome, but with the common consent and assent of a Par∣liament; which was not done: and whatsoever he had passed was against his oath at his coronation by him in expresse words religiously taken before God: Therefore in case the Pope should urge this matter, they were most readie, to the uttermost of their power, to resist him resolutely with their bodies and goods. They also who are skilfull in scanning and sifting everie pricke and tittle of the lawes, cry out with one voice, That the said Grant or Charter of King Iohn was voide in Law, by that clause and reservation in the end thereof; Saving unto us and our heires, all our Rights, Liberties, and Regalities. But [ B] this may seeme beside my text.

Ever since King Johns time, the Kings of England were stiled Lords of Ireland, un∣till that King Henrie the eighth in the memorie of our fathers was in a Parliament of Ireland, by the States thereof declared King of Ireland, because the name of Lord seemed in the judgement of certaine seditious persons, nothing so sacred and full of majestie as the name of King.

This name and title of the Kingdome of Ireland were by the Popes authoritie (what time as Queene Marie in the yeere 1555. had by her Embassadours in the name of the Kingdom of England tendred obedience unto the Pope Paul the fourth) confirmed in these words. To the laud and glorie of almightie God, and his most glori∣ous [ C] mother the Virgin Mary: to the honour also of the whole Court of heaven, and the ex∣altation of the Catholike faith, as the humble request and suite made unto us by King Philip and Queen Marie about this matter, wee, with the advice of our brethren, and of plenarie power Apostolicall by our Apostolicall authoritie, erect for ever Ireland to bee a Kingdome, and endow, dignifie, and exalt with the title, dignitie, honour, faculties, rights, ensignes, prerogatives, preferments, preeminencies royall, and such as other Realmes of Christians have, use, and enjoy▪ and may have, use, and enjoy for the times to come.

And seeing that I have hapned upon those Noblemens names, who first of all Eng∣lish gave the attempt upon Ireland, and most valiantly subdued it under the imperiall crowne of England, lest I might seeme upon envie to deprive both them and their [ D] posteritie of this due and deserved glorie, I will set them downe here out of the Chancerie of Ireland, according as the title doth purport.

The names of them that came with Dermot Mac Morrog into Ireland.

• Richard Strongbow Earle of Pembroch, who by Eve the daughter of Morrog the Irish pettie King aforesaid, had one only daughter, and she brought unto William Ma∣reschall the title of the Earldome of Pembroch, with faire lands in Ireland, and a goodly issue, five sonnes, who succeeded one another in a row, all childlesse: and as many daughters, which enriched their husbands, Hugh Bigod Earle of Norfolke, [ E] Guarin Montchensey, Gilbert Clare Earle of Glocester, William Ferrars Earle of Der∣by, and William Breose, with children, honours, and possessions.
  • Robert Fitz-Stephen.
  • Harvey de Mont-Marish.
  • Maurice Prendergest.
  • Robert Barr.
  • Meiler Meilerine.
  • Maurice Fitz-Girald.
  • Redmund nephew of Fitz-Stephen.
  • William Ferrand. [ F]
  • Miles de Cogan.
  • Richard de Cogan.
  • Gualter de Ridensford.
  • Gualter and sonnes of Maurice Fitz-Girald.
  • Alexander sonnes of Maurice Fitz-Girald.
  • ...

• ...
  • [ A] William Notte.
  • Robert Fitz-Bernard.
  • Hugh Lacie.
  • William Fitz-Aldelm.
  • William Maccarell.
  • Humfrey Bohun.
  • Hugh de Gundevill.
  • Philip de Hasting.
  • Hugh Tirell.
  • [ B] David Walsh.
  • Robert Poer.
  • Osbert de Herloter.
  • William de Bendenges.
  • Adam de Gernez.
  • Philip de Breos.
  • Griffin, nephew of Fitz-Stephen.
  • Raulfe Fitz-Stephen.
  • Walter de Barry.
  • Philip Walsh.
  • [ C] Adam de Hereford.
• To whom may be added out of Giraldus Cambrensis,
  • Iohn Curcy.
  • Hugh Contilon.
  • Redmund Cantimore.
  • Redmund Fitz-Hugh.
  • Miles of S. Davids, and others.

[ D] The Government of the Kingdome of Ireland.

EVer since that Ireland became subject unto England, the Kings of Eng∣land have sent over thither, to manage the state of the Realme, their Re∣gents or Vice-gerents,* 1.41 whom they tearmed in those writings or letters Patents of theirs (whereby authoritie and jurisdiction is committed un∣to them) first, * 1.42 Keepers of Ireland: then afterwards, according as it pleased them, Iustices of Ireland, Lievtenants, and Deputies. Which authoritie and [ E] jurisdiction of theirs is very large, ample, and royall; whereby they have power to make warre, to conclude peace, to bestow all Magistracies and Offices, except a ve∣ry few; to pardon all crimes, unlesse they be some of high treason, to dub Knights, &c. These letters Patents, when any one entreth upon this honourable place of go∣vernment, are publikely read, and after a solemne oath taken in a set forme of words before the Chancellour, the sword is delivered into his hands, which is to be borne before him; he is placed in a chaire of estate, having standing by him the Chancellour of the Realme, those of the Privie Councell, the Peeres and Nobles of the king∣dome, with a King of Armes, a Serjeant of Armes, and other Officers of State. And verily there is not (looke throughout all Christendome againe) any other Vice-Roy [ F] that commeth neerer unto the majestie of a King, whether you respect his jurisdi∣ction and authoritie, or his traine, furniture and provision. There bee assistant unto him in counsell, the Lord Chancellour of the Realm, the Treasurer of the Kingdome, and others of the Earles, Bishops, Barons, and Judges, which are of the Privie Coun∣cell. For Ireland hath the very same degrees of States that England hath,* 1.43 namely, Earles, Barons, Knights, Esquires, &c.

[ A]

The Courts of Justice, or Tribunals of Ireland.

THe supreme Court of the Kingdome of Ireland is the Parliament, which at the pleasure of the Kings of England is usually called by the Deputie, and by him dissolved: although in the reigne of King Edward the second, a Law was enacted,* 1.44 That every yeer there should be Parliaments holden in Ireland, which seemeth yet not to have been effected. There be likewise foure Tearmes kept, as in England, yeerely: and there are five Courts of Justice; The Star-chamber, the Chancerie, the Kings Bench, the common Pleas, and the Exchequer. There are also Iustices of Assises, [ B] of Nisi prius, and of Oyer and Determiner, according as in England: yea and Iustices of Peace in every countie, for the keeping of peace. Moreover, the King hath his Serje∣ant at law, his Atturney Generall, his Sollicitour, &c.

Over and besides, in the more remote Provinces there be Governours to minister Justice; as a principall Commissioner in Connaught, and a President in Mounster: who have to assist them in Commission certaine Gentlemen and Lawyers, and yet every of them are directed by the Kings Lievtenant Deputie. As for the common lawes, Ireland is governed by the same that England hath. For we read in the Re∣cords of the Kingdome thus: King Henry the third, in the 12. yeere of his reigne, gave commandement to his Iustice of Ireland, that calling together the Archbishops, Bishops, [ C] Barons, and Knights, he should cause there before them to be read the Charter of King Iohn; which he caused to be read accordingly, and the Nobles of Ireland to be sworn, as touching the observation of the lawes and customes of England, and that they should hold and keepe the same. Neverthelesse the meere Irish did not admit them, but retained their owne Brehon lawes and leud customes. And the Kings of England used a conni∣vence therein upon some deepe consideration, not vouchsafing to communicate the benefit of the English lawes, but upon especiall grace to especiall families or sects; namely, the O Neales, O Conors, O Brien, O Maloghlins, and Mac Murough, which were reputed of the blood roiall among them. The Parliamentary or Statute lawes al∣so of England being transmitted, were usually in force in Ireland unto the time of K. Henrie the seventh. For in the tenth yeere of his reign, those were ratified & confir∣med [ D] by authoritie of Parliament in Ireland, in the time of Sir Edw. Poinings govern∣ment, but ever since they have had their Statutes enacted in their owne Parliaments. Besides these civill Magistrates, they have also one militarie officer, named the Mare∣shal, who standeth here in great stead, to restrain as well the insolencie of souldiers, as of rebels, who otherwhiles commit many & great insolencies. This office the Barons de Morley of England bare in times past by inheritance, as appeareth by Records for King John gave it to bee held by right of inheritance,* 1.45 in these very expresse words, We have given and granted unto Iohn Mareschal for his homage and service,* 1.46 our Mare∣shalship of Ireland, with all appurtenances. We have given also unto him for his homage and service, the Cantred in which standeth the towne of Kilbunny, to have and to hold un∣to [ E] him and his heires of us and our heires. From whom it descended in the right line to the Barons of Morley. This Mareshall hath under him his Provost Marshall, and sometime more than one, according to the occasions and troubles of the time, who exercise their authoritie by limitation under the great seale of Ireland, with instructi∣ons. But these, and such like matters, I will leave to the curious diligence of others. Touching the order of justice and government among those more uncivill and wilde Irish, I will write somewhat in place convenient, when I shall treat of their manners.

THE DIVISION OF IRELAND.

* 1.47IRELAND, according to the maners of the inhabitants, is divided into [ F] two parts: for they that refuse to be under lawes, and do live without civilitie, are termed the Irishry, and commonly the Wild Irish: but such as being more civill do reverence the authoritie of lawes, and are wil∣ling to appeare in Court, and judicially to be tried, are named English-Irish,

[ A] and their country goeth under the tearm of The English Pale, because the first Englishmen that came thither did empale for themselves certaine limits in the East part of the Iland, and that which was most fruitfull: Within which there bee even at this day, those also that live uncivilly enough, and are not very obedient unto the lawes: like as others without the pale are as courteous and civill as a man would de∣sire. But if we look into higher times, according to the situation of the country, or the number rather of governors in old time, it containeth five portions (for it was some∣times a Pentarchie) namely, Mounster Southward: Leinster Eastward: Connacht in the West: Ulster in the North: and Meth, well neere in the very middest.

[ B]

In Mounster are these Counties,

• ...Kerry.
• ...Desmond.
• ...Cork.
• ...Waterford.
• ...Limiricke.
• ...Tipperary, with the county of holy Crosse in Tipperarie.

In Leinster be these Counties,

• ...Kilkenny.
• ...Caterlough.
• ...Queenes County.
• ...Kings Countie.
• ...Kildare.
• ...Weishford.
• ...Dublin.

[ C]

In Meth are these Counties,

• ...East Meath.
• ...West Meath.
• ...Longford.

[ D]

In Connaght are these Counties,

• ...Clare
• ...Galloway.
• ...Majo.
• ...Slego.
• ...Letrim.
• ...Roscoman.

In Ulster be these Counties,

• ...Louth.
• ...Cauon.
• ...Fermanagh.
• ...Monaghan.
• ...Armagh.
• ...Doun.
• ...Antrim.
• ...London-Derry.
• ...Tir-Oen.
• Tir-Conell, or Do∣negall.

[ E]

The Ecclesiasticall State of Ireland was ordered anciently by Bishops,* 1.48 whom ei∣ther the Archbishop of Canterburie consecrated, or they themselves one another. But in the yeere 1152. as we read in Philip Flatesburie, Christianus Bishop of Lismore Legate of all Ireland, held a most frequent and honourable Councell at Mell, where∣at were present the Bishops, Abbats, Kings, Captaines, and Elders of Ireland. In which, by authoritie Apostolicall, and by the counsell of Cardinals, with the con∣sent of Bishops, Abbats, and others, there in Consistorie he ordained foure Archbi∣shopricks [ F] in Ireland, Armach, Dublin, Cassile, and Tuem or Toam.

The Bishopricks which were Diocessans under these, seeing that now some of them are by the covetous iniquitie of the times abolished, others confounded, and conjoined, others againe translated another way, I am disposed here to put downe (according as they were in old time) out of an ancient Roman PROVINCIALL, faith∣fully exemplified out of the originall.

Under the Arch-Bishop of Ar∣magh, Primate of all Ireland, are the Bishops of

• Meath, or—Elnami∣rand. [ A]
• Dune, alias— Dunda∣lethglas.
• Chlocor, otherwise —Lugundun.
• ...Conner.
• ...Ardachad.
• ...Rathbot.
• ...Rathluc.
• ...Daln-Liquir.
• Dearrih or Derri••.
• ...Clo••macnois.
• ...Dromor.
• ...Brefem.

To the Archbi∣shop of Dublin are subject the Bishops of

• ...Glendelach.
• ...Fern.
• Ossery, alias—De Canic.
• ...Lechlin.
• Kil-dare or Dare.

Under the Arch∣bishop of Cassile are the Bishops of

• Laonie, or— De Kendal∣nan.
• ...Limric.
• ...The Isle Gathay.
• ...Cellumabrath.
• Melite or of Emileth.
• Rossi, alias Roscree.
• Waterford, alias— De Baltifordian.
• ...Lismore.
• Clon, alias — De Clua∣nan.
• Corcage, that is, Cork.
• ...De Rosalither.
• Ardefert, or Kerry. [ D]

Unto the Arch∣bishop of Tuam or Toam are sub∣ject the Bishops of

• Duac, alias—Kil∣macduoc.
• ...Mage.
• ...Enachdun.
• ...De Celaiar. [ C]
• ...De Rosconmon.
• ...Clonfers.
• Achad, or Achonry
• Lade or Killaleth.
• ...De Conany.
• ...De Kilmunduach.
• ...Elphin.

MOMONIA, or MOUNSTER!

MOMONIA, in Irish Mown, and in ordinarie construction of speech Wown, in English Mounster, lieth Southward open to the Vergivian sea; separated in some place from Connaght by the river Siney or Shanon, and elsewhere from Lemster by the river Neor. In times past it was divided into many parts, as Towoun, that is, North Mounster, Deswoun, that is, South Mounster; Hier woun, that is, West Mounster; Mean woun, [ E] that is, Middle Mounster; and Urwoun, that is, The Front of Mounster: but at this day into two parts, that is, into West Mounster, and South Mounster. In the West Mounster there dwelt in old time the LUCENI, the VELABRI, and UTERINI: in the South, the OUDIAE or VODIAE, and the CORIONDI: but at this day it is distinguished into seven Counties, Kerry, Desmund, Corke, Limiric, Tipperary, Holy Crosse, and Waterford.

Where Ireland lieth out most Westward, and treanding toward the Cantabrian Ocean, looketh afarre off Southwest, with a large interspace, to Gallitia in Spaine, there inhabited in old time the VELABRI and LUCENI, as Orosius writeth. The LUCENI of Ireland (who may seeme to have had their name and beginning from [ F] the LUCENSII of Gallitia,* 1.49 in the opposite coast of Spaine, and of whose name some reliques still remain in the Barony of Lyxnaw) were seated as I suppose in the Coun∣tie of Kerry, and in Conoglogh hard by upon the banke of the river Shanon.

[ A]

THE COUNTIE OF KERRY.

THe Countie of Kerry neere unto the mouth of Shanon, runneth forth like a little tongue into the sea, beaten on with barking bil∣lowes on both sides: a country mounting aloft with wooddy, wild, and solitarie mountaines: between which there lye many vallies, in some places garnished with corn-fields, in others beset also thicke with woods. This is reputed a Countie Palatine, and the Earles of [ B] Desmond had in it the dignitie and priviledges of a Count-Palatine, and that by the bountifull gift of K. Edward the third, who granted unto them all Re∣gall liberties, except foure pleas, namely, of Burning, Rape, Forstall, and Treasure trouue, with the profit growing de Croccis, reserved for the Kings of England. But through the licentious iniquitie of the men, who neither would nor knew how to use this liber∣tie, it became of late a very sinke of mischiefes, and a common receptacle for rebels. In the entrance into this countrie there is a territorie called Clan-Moris,* 1.50 of one Mo∣ris descended from the stocke of Raimund le Grosse, whose heires successively were called the Barons of Lixnaw. A little river now namelesse (which the situation in some sort implieth to be DUR in Ptolomee) cutteth through the midst of this,* 1.51 run∣ning [ C] by Trayley a small towne, laid now in manner desolate, (where the Earles of Desmund had an house.* 1.52) Hard by standeth Ardart, where the Bishop called of Arde∣fert, a poore one God wot, hath his poore See. In the farthest point well neere of this, where it maketh a promontorie,* 1.53 there sheweth it selfe on the one side Dingle, a com∣modious port,* 1.54 on the other side Smerwic Sound a road for ships, for so they tearme it short in steed of S. Mary-wic: at which of late, when Girald Earle of Desmund, a man notorious for deep treacherie to his Prince and countrey, wickedly wasted Mounster with continuall harrying and raising booties out of the fields, there arrived certaine companies of Italians and Spaniards, sent under-hand to aide him from Pope Grego∣rie the thirteenth, and the King of Spaine; who here fortifying a place which they [ D] called Fort del Ore, made their bragging bravadoes, and thundred out many a terrible threat.* 1.55 But the most noble and martiall Baron, Arthur Lord Grey, Lord Deputie, with his very comming and first onset that he made upon them, decided the matter, and ended the quarrell. For immediately they yeelded themselves, and the most part of them were put to the sword, which was in policie thought the wisest and safest course, considering in what ticklish tearmes the state of this Realme then stood, and how the rebels in every place were up in armes. And the Earle of Desmund himselfe at length in his fearefull flight being forced to take the woods hard by for his refuge, was soone after in a poore cottage by a souldier or two rushing in upon him,* 1.56 first wounded, and afterwards being knowne, cut shorter by the head, and so paid worthi∣ly [ E] for his perfidious treason, and the wasting of his countrey.

Here some man happily would thinke it not correspondent to the gravity of this worke,* 1.57 if I should but relate what a ridiculous opinion hathfully possessed the minds of a number of the Irishry, yea and perswaded them verily to beleeve that he who in that barbarous Pharoh and out cry of the Souldiers, which with great strai∣ning of their voice they use to set up when they joine battaile, doth not cry and hout as the rest doe, is suddenly caught up from the ground, and carried as it were flying in the aire, into these desert vallies, out of any country of Ireland whatsoever: where he eateth grasse, lappeth water, knoweth not in what state he is, good or bad, hath some use of reason but not of speech, but shall be caught at length with the help [ F] of hounds and the hunters, and brought home to their owne homes.

[ A]

DESMONIA, or DESMOND.

BEneath those ancient LUCENI lieth DESMOND, stretched out farre and wide toward the South, called in Irish Deswown, in Latine Des∣monia, inhabited in ancient times by the VELLABRI and IBERNI, which in some copies are written UTERINI.* 1.58 As for these VELABRI, they may seeme so named of ABER, that is, salt water washes, for that they dwelt upon such Friths, divided one from another by many and those notable armes of the sea running betweene: whence also the Artabri and Cantabri in Spaine [ B] had their denomination. Among these armes of the sea, three promontories, beside Kerry aforesaid, with crooked and winding shoares run out into the Southwest, and those the inhabitants tearmed in old time Hierwoun, that is, West-Mounster. The first of them betweene Dingle bay and the river Mair, is named Clan-Car, and hath a ca∣stle built at Dunkeran by the Carews of England. In this dwelt Donald Mac Carty More, a Lord of the Irish blood, who in the yeere 1566. resigned up unto Queen Eli∣zabeths hands his possessions and lands,* 1.59 and tooke them againe of her, to hold the same after the English manner by fee,* 1.60 doing homage and fealtie. And at the same time he was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 created Baron of Valentia (an Island adjoining) and Earle of Clan-car. A man in this tract of great name and power, a most deadly foe in times past of the [ C] Fitz-Giralds, who disseized his ancestours, Kings (as hee stifly avoucheth) of Des∣mond, of their ancient seat and habitation. But long enjoied not hee this honour: and having but one onely daughter legitimate, he matched her in marriage with Flo∣rence Mac Carty, and departed out of this life an aged man.

The second promontorie enclosed within two baies, Maire and Bantre, is named Beare,* 1.61 standing for the most part upon hungry gravell, and a leane stony soile: In which live O Swillivant Beare,* 1.62 and O Swillivant Bantre, descended both of one and the same stocke, men of great nobility in their country.

The third is called Eraugh, lying betweene Bantre and Balatimore or Baltimore, a Bay or Creeke passing well knowne by reason of the abundance of Herrings taken [ D] there: whereunto resorteth every yeere a great fleet of Spaniards and Portugals, even in the mids of winter,* 1.63 to fish for Cods. In this the O Mahons by the beneficiall gift of M. Carew received faire lands and Lordships. This is that Ptolomee calleth NOTIUM,* 1.64 that is, the South-Promontorie, at this day named Missen-head, under which (as we may read in him) the river IERNUS is disgorged into the Ocean. But what name the said river now hath, in so great obscurity I hardly dare divine, un∣lesse it be that which they call Maire, and runneth hard under Dunk-eran aforesaid. Neither wot I how to ghesse at those people, whom the same Ptolomee placeth up∣on these promontories, seeing that according to the varietie of copies they have sun∣dry names, as IBERNI, OUTERNI, IBERI, and IVERNI, unlesse peradventure, [ E] like as their neighbours the LUCENI and CONCANI did, they flitted hither from among the Iberi of Spaine. Well, this name of Desmond in the foregoing ages stret∣ched farre and wide in this tract, even from the sea unto the river Shanon, and was called also South-Mounster.* 1.65 The Fitz-Giralds descended out of the house of Kildare, having subdued the Irish, became Lords here of very large and goodly possessions: and of them Maurice Fitz-Thomas (unto whom T. Carew heire unto the Seigniory of Desmond, had before passed away his right of Desmond) was in the third yeere of King Edward the third created the first Earle of Desmond. Among whose posterity many there were, great men for their valour and wealth, whose credit also and re∣putation reached farre. But a bad name there went, and still doth, of James; who [ F] having excluded his nephew from the inheritance, entred himselfe by force upon it, and imposed upon the people those most grievous tributes of Coyne, Livery, Cocher∣ings, Bonaghty, &c. for the maintenance of Galloglasses and Souldiers to spoile and harry the countrey. Which when his sonne Thomas exacted and gathered of the poore people, hee was by the commandement of John Tiptoft Deputy Lievtenant

[ A] beheaded in the yeere 1467. and so suffered due punishment for his owne and his fa∣thers wickednesse. Howbeit when his children were restored againe, in their off∣spring this honour continued, and descended in right of inheritance unto Girald that rebell, whom erewhile I named, who wilfully overthrew a most noble and potent fa∣mily. And when hee was attainted by Parliamentary authority, Desmond was ad∣judged and annexed to the Crowne land, reduced into the ranke of counties, and a Sheriffe was ordained to governe it from yeere to yeere. Neverthelesse in the last rebellion the rebells erected a titularie Earle; and against him Queene Elizabeth granted the title of Earle of Desmond unto Iames Fitz-Girald, sonne to the foresaid [ B] rebell, who shortly after died issuelesse in the yeere 1601. They that herein beare the greatest name and most puissance are of the race of the Giraldines, or Fitz-Giralds, although they have for sundry respects assumed unto themselves divers sir∣names.

VODIAE, and CORIONDI.

AFter the Iberi,* 1.66 there dwelt farre in the countrey the 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, who are tearmed also VODIAE, and UDIAE: the footing of which name doth more expresly shew it selfe in Idou and Idouth, two small territories: like [ C] as the name of CORIONDI,* 1.67 in the countie of Corke bordering upon them. These nations inhabited the counties of Corke, Tipperary, Limericke, and Wa∣terford.

COMITATUS CORCAGIENSIS, commonly called THE COUNTY OF CORK.

[ D] THe County of Corke, which in old time was reputed a Kingdome, comprised the whole tract along the sea from Lismore unto Saint Brend, where it affronteth Desmond Westward, hath in the midland parts thereof Mu••keray,* 1.68 a wild and woody country; wherein Cormac Mac-Teg is of great name: and toward the sea coast Carbray,* 1.69 in which the Mac-Carties beare the most sway. By the sea side, the first place that we meet with is Rosse, a road and port in times past well frequented, but now lesse resorted unto by reason of a bar of sand. From thence with a narrow neck runneth out a biland, called the Old head of Kinsale, neere unto which the family of the Curcies flourished in an∣cient times, famous for their wealth; descended from a brother of Iohn Curcy the Englishman that subdued Ulster; and out of which there remaineth here still Curcy [ E] Baron of Ringrom; but at this day (this is the world) of weak and meane estate. Af∣ter it, at the mouth of the river Bany, in a fertile soile and well woodded, standeth Kinsale, a very commodious port, and a towne fortified with old walls: under which in the yeere 1601. the kingdome of Ireland lay a bleeding, and put it was upon the hazzard, as it were, of one cast of a die, whether it should be subject to England or Spaine: what time as the Iland was endangered both with forraine and domesticall warre,* 1.70 and eight thousand old trained souldiers under the conduct of Don Iohn D' A∣quila, had of a sudden surprized and fortified it, confident upon the censures and ex∣communications of Pius the fifth, Gregorie the thirteenth, and Clement the eighth, Popes of Rome, discharged like thunderbolts upon Queene Elizabeth, and presu∣ming [ F] confidently upon the aides of rebells, who had sent for them, under a goodly shew of restoring religion (which in this age and variance about religion, is every where pretended for to maske and cloak most ungracious and wicked designes.) But Sir Charles Blunt Baron Mountjoy, L. Deputy, presently belaied it round about both by sea and land, albeit his souldiers were tired, toiled out, and the season of the yeere most incommodious, as being midwinter: and withall, made head also against a rab∣ble

of rebels, whom the Earle of Tir-Oen, O-Donel, Mac-Gwyre, and Mac-Mahound [ A] had raised and gotten thither; and with such valour and fortitude so fortunately daun∣ted and repressed their malapert boldnesse, that with one victory hee both had the towne with the Spaniards in it yeelded unto him, and also wrested, as it were, out of the hands of all Ireland throughout, now at the point of revolt, (for they that delibe∣rate are revolted already) both sword and fire. On the other side of the river from Kinsale lieth Kerry-Wherry,* 1.71 a little territorie of late belonging to the Earles of Des∣mond. Just before which runneth the river that Ptolomee calleth DAURONA, Giral∣dus Cambrensis, by changing onely one letter, Sauranus and Saveranus, which issu∣ing out of Mu••kerey mountaines, passeth along by that principall Citie of the coun∣tie, [ B] graced with an Episcopall dignitie (whereunto is annexed the Bishops See of Clon) which Giraldus nameth Corragia, Englishmen Corke, and the naturall inhabi∣tants of the country Coreach: enclosed within a circuit of walls in forme of an egge, with the river flowing round about it and running betweene, not passable through but by bridges, lying out in length, as it were, in one direct broad street, and the same having a bridge over it: Howbeit a pretty towne of merchandise it is, well peopled, and much resorted unto; but so beset on every side with rebels neighbouring upon it, that they are faine to keepe alwaies a set watch and ward, as if they had continu∣all siege laid unto their Citie, and dare not marrie their daughters forth into the country, but make marriages one with another among themselves; whereby all the [ C] Citizens are linked together in some degree or other of kinred and affinity. The re∣port goeth that Brioc that most devout and holy man (who in that fruitfull age of Saints flourished among the Gauls, and from whom the Diocesse of Sanbrioch in Britaine Armorica, commonly called S. Brieu tooke the name) was borne and bred here.

Beneath Corke the river parting in twaine, environeth a large and very pleasant Iland, over against the principall dwelling house of that most ancient and noble fa∣mily of the Barries, which thereupon is called Barry Court. For that family is deri∣ved from Robert de Barry an Englishman, a personage of great worth, and renow∣ned: who notwithstanding chose rather among the first to be chiefe indeed, than to seeme [ D] chiefe; who in the winning of Ireland received wounds and hurt, and the first man he was in Ireland that manned and brought the Hawk to hand. His posterity by their long ap∣proved loyaltie and martiall prowesse, deserved to receive of the Kings of England, first the title of Baron Barry,* 1.72 afterwards of Vicount Butiphant, & for their great lands and wealth, gat among the people the sirname Barry more, that is, Barry the great. Below Barry-court, the river Saveren, hard by Imokelly a faire possession long since of the Earle of Desmond, loseth it selfe in the Ocean, affording at the very mouth com∣modious harbours and havens.

As Saveren watereth the neather part of this countrey, so Broodwater, called in times past Aven-more, that is, The great River, moisteneth the upper: upon which [ E] inhabiteth the Noble family of Roch,* 1.73 which being transplanted out of England hath growne up and prospered here very well, and now enjoieth the title of Vicount Fermoy. Certaine it is, that in the reigne of Edward the second, they were enti∣tuled with the honour of Parliament-Barons, considering that George Roch was fined in two hundred Markes, because upon summons given, hee came not to the Parliament at Dublin: where Broodwater (which for a good while runneth as a bound between this county and the county of Waterford) entring into the sea maketh an ha∣ven, standeth Yoghall;* 1.74 no great towne, but walled round about, built in fashion some∣what long, and divided into two parts: the upper, which is the greater part, stretch∣ing out Northward, hath a Church in it, and without the wall a little Abbey which [ F] they call North Abbey: the neather part reaching Southward, called the Base-towne, had also an Abbey called South Abbey; and the commodiousnesse of the haven, which hath a well fensed Kay belonging unto it,* 1.75 and the fruitfulnesse withall of the country adjoining, draweth Merchants unto it, so as it is well frequented and inhabited, yea and hath a Mayor for the head Magistrate.

[ A] Thus farre in these daies reacheth the countie of Corke,* 1.76 which in times past, as I said even now, was counted a kingdome, and went farther, as which contained with∣in it Desmond also. This kingdome King Henry the second gave and granted unto Sir Robert Fitz-Stephen, and to Sir Miles de Cogan in these words: Know yee that I have granted the whole kingdome of Corke, excepting the City and Cantred of the Oust∣mans, to hold for them and their heires, of mee and Iohn my sonne, by the service of 60. knights. And the Carews of England were heires to that Fitz-Stephen, from whom Sir George Carew, now Baron Carew of Clopton, lineally and directly deriveth his descent, who not long since was the Lord President of Mounster, and in some of these obscure [ B] Irish matters (which I willingly acknowledge) hath directed me by the light of his knowledge.

THE COUNTY OF WATERFORD.

ON the East coast of Ireland the county of WATERFORD extend∣eth it selfe between the rivers Broodwater West, Shour East, the Ocean from the South, and the county of Tipperary Northward: a goodly country, as well for pleasant site as fertile soile. Upon Broodwater, so soone as it hath left Corke county behinde it,* 1.77 Lismore sheweth it selfe, [ C] well knowne for an Episcopall See in it, where Christian sate sometime the Bishop, and Legate of Ireland about the yeere 1148. a Prelate that deserved passing well of the Irish Church, trained in his youth at Clarevall in the same cloister with St. Ber∣nard and Pope Eugenius.

But now, since that the possessions in manner all have beene alienated, it is united unto the Bishopricke of Waterford. But neere unto the mouth of the said river, stand∣eth Ardmor a little towne, so called because it standeth neere the sea, of which, and of this river Necham long since versified thus.

Urbem Lisimor pertransit flumen Avenmor, Ardmor cernit ubi concitus aequor adit.* 1.78 [ D] The river named Aven-Mor through Lismor towne doth runne, Ardnor him sees, and there apace to sea he speeds anon.

The little territory adjoining unto it is called Dessee,* 1.79 the Lord whereof, one of the family of Desmond, received in our remembrance the honourable title of Vicount Dessee: but for that he had no issue male, it vanished with him in a short time. Not farre from hence standeth Dungarvan upon the sea,* 1.80 a towne well fortified with a castle, and as commodious by reason of the roade for ships: which together with the Baronie of Dungarvan King Henry the sixth bountifully granted unto John Talbot Earle of Shrewsbury: but afterward, seeing it stood handsomely to that part of Mounster which was to be brought under and reduced to order, it was by authority [ E] of Parliament annexed to the Imperiall Crowne of the Kings of England for ever. Neer unto it flourished the Poers of ancient nobility (from the very first time that Ire∣land was conquered by the English) and afterward advanced to the honourable title of the Barons of Curraghmore.* 1.81 But upon the banke of the river Suyr, Waterford the chiefe and principall city of this county maketh a goodly shew. Concerning which old Necham writeth in this wise.

Suirius insignem gaudet ditare Waterford, Aequoreis undis associatur ibi. The river Suyr hath great desire, Faire Waterford rich to make: [ F] For in this place he hies apace, His course with sea to take.

This city which the Irish and Britans call Porthlargy, the English Waterford, was built by certaine Pirates of Norway; and although it standeth in an aire somewhat grosse, and upon a soile not very fruitfull, and the streets therein bee with the narrowest, thrust close and pent together; yet such is the convenience and commodiousnesse

of the haven, that for wealth, fresh trading, and frequent resort it is the second City [ A] in all Ireland, and hath alwaies shewed a singular loialty, fidelitie, and obedience to the Imperiall Crowne of England. For ever since that Richard Earle of Pembrok wanne it, it hath continued so faithfull and quietly disposed, that it performed at all times safe and secure peace unto the English on their backes, whiles they went on in the conquering of Ireland. Whence it is that the Kings of England have gran∣ted unto it very many, and those right large Franchises, which King Henry the se∣venth augmented, and confirmed, because the Citizens had demeaned themselves most valiantly and wisely against that Mock-Prince Perkin Warbeck, who being a young man of base condition, by hoising up the full sailes of impudence went about [ B] to mount up aloft unto the Imperiall diadem, whiles he a meer suborned counterfeit tooke upon him to be Richard Duke of Yorke, the second sonne of King Edward the fourth.

* 1.82This countie of Waterford together with the city, King Henry the sixth gave un∣to Iohn Talbot Earle of Shrewsbury aforesaid, by these words, which because they te∣stifie the valerous vertue of that most martiall Knight, to the end that vertue might have the due honour thereto belonging, I thinke it worth my labour, and haply any man else would deeme no lesse, to put downe out of the Record; which may be Eng∣lished thus. We therefore, saith the King, (after other eloquent termes penned by the Secretaries of that age, when there was but simple Latin) weighing with due consideration [ C] the valiant prowesse of our most deere and faithfull cousin, John Earle of Shrewsbury and of Weisford, Lord Talbot, Furnivall, and Le Strange, sufficiently tried and ap∣proved even unto his old age in the warres aforesaid, upon his body no lesse bedewed with sweat many a time than embrued with blood; and considering in what sort our Countie and Citie of Waterford in our land of Ireland, the Castle, Seigniory, Honour, Land, and Baronie of Dungarvan, and all the Lordships, Lands, Honours, and Baronies with the pertinences within the same County, which by forfeiture of rebels, by reversion or de∣cease of any person or persons, by escheat, or any other title of law ought to come into our hands or our progenitors, or in the same to be by reason of the hostile invasions of our ene∣mies and rebells in those parts, are become so desolate, and lye so much exposed to the [ D] spoiles of warre, wholly as it were wasted, that they turne us to no profit, but have and doe redound oftentimes to our detriment: in this regard also, that by the same our Cou∣sin our foresaid land of Ireland may the more valiantly be defended in those parts against such attempts and invasions of our enemies and rebells, doe ordaine, promote, and cre∣ate him Earle of Waterford, together with the stile, title, name, and honour thereto be∣longing. And because as the highnesse of his state and degree groweth, all things conse∣quently of necessity grow withall, upon our speciall grace, certaine knowledge, and meere motion, and for the estate of the Earle himselfe our Cousin to be maintained in more decent manner, we have given, granted, and by these our letters confirmed unto the same Earle the County aforesaid, together with the foresaid stile, title, name, and honour of [ E] Earle of Waterford; yea and the foresaid City, with the fee ferme of the same, the Castles, Lordships, Honours, Lands and Baronies, with the pertinences within the County: like∣wise all and every sort the Manors, Hundreds, Wapentakes, &c. all along the sea coast, from the towne of Yoghall unto Waterford City aforesaid, To have and to hold the foresaid County of Waterford, the stile, title, name, and honour of Earle of Waterford, and the City Waterford aforesaid, the Castle, Seigniory, Honour, Land, and Barony of Dungarvan, and all other Lordships, Honours, Lands and Baronies within the said county: as also all and every the foresaid Manors, Hundreds, &c. unto the above named Earle and the heires males issuing out of his body (to have I say and to hold) of us and our heires, by homage, fealty,* 1.83 and the service of being and to be our Seneschall or Steward, and that his heires be [ F] the Seneschals of Ireland to us and our heires, throughout our whole land of Ireland, to do and that hee doe, and ought himselfe to doe in the same his office, that which his predeces∣sors Seneschals of England were wont to doe hitherto in that office, for ever. In witnesse whereof, &c.

But when as (whiles the Kings of England and the Nobles, who had large and

[ A] goodly possessions in Ireland, were much busied and troubled a long time; first, with the warres of France, and afterward with civill warres at home) Ireland lay in man∣ner neglected, and the State of English there falling still to decay, was now in man∣ner come to nothing: but the Irishry, by occasion of the others absence, grew excee∣ding mighty: for to recover these losses, and to abate the power of the Irish, it was ordained and enacted by the States of the Realme in Parliament,* 1.84 that the Earle of Shrewsbury, for his absence and carelesnesse in maintaining of his owne, should sur∣render into the hands of the King and his successors the Earledome and towne of Waterford: the Duke of Norfolke likewise, the Baron Barkley, the heires generall of [ B] the Earle of Ormond, and all the Abbats, Priors, &c. of England, who had any lands, should surrender up all their possessions unto the King and his successors for the same absence and neglect.

THE COUNTY OF LIMERICK.

HItherto have wee gone over the Maritime counties of Mounster: two there remaine yet behind that bee in-lands, Limericke and Tipperary, which wee are now to goe unto. The county of LIMERICK lieth behinde that of Corke Northward, betweene Kerry, the river Sha∣non, [ C] and the county of Tipperary. A fertile countrey, and well peo∣pled, but able to shew very few places of any good account and importance. The more Western part of it is called Conilagh;* 1.85 wherein among the hills, Knock-Patric, that is Patricks hill, mounteth up of a mighty height, and yeelding a pleasant prospect into the sea, beholdeth afarre off the river Shanon, falling with a wide and wast mouth into the Vergivian or Ocean. Under which hill a sept of Fitz-Giralds, or Giral∣dines, lived honourably a long time,* 1.86 untill that Thomas, called the Knight of the Val∣ley, or of the Glin, when his gracelesse sonne that wicked firebrand suffered death (for to set villages and houses a fire is by the lawes of Ireland high treason) because him∣selfe advised his sonne, and set him on to enter into these lewd actions, by authority [ D] of the Parliament was disseized of his goodly and large possessions. The head City of this county is Limerick, which Shanon, a most famous river, by parting his chanell compasseth round about.

The Irish call it Loumeag,* 1.87 and the English Limirick. A Bishops See this is, and a very famous mart towne of Mounster; first forcibly won by Reimundo the Grosse, an Englishman, the sonne of William Girald, afterwards burnt by Duvenald an Irish petty King of Thuetmond: and then in processe of time Philip Breos an Englishman was enfeoffed in it, & King John fortified it with a castle. At this day it is counted two townes. The upper (for so they call it) wherein stand the Cathedrall Church and the castle, hath two gates opening into it, and each of them a faire bridge unto it of stone, [ E] with bulwarkes and little draw bridges: the one leading into the West, the other into the East, unto which the nether towne joineth, fensed with a wall, with a ca∣stle also thereto, and a foregate at the entrance into it. More into the East standeth Clan-William,* 1.88 so named of the sept or kinred of William, who came out of the family de Burgo (the Irish call it Burke) which dwelleth therein: and out of which house Queene Elizabeth conferred upon William, who slew Iames Fitz-Moris that tempe∣stuous troubler of his country,* 1.89 the title and honour of Baron of Castle-Conel, (where Richard the Red Earle of Ulster, had strengthened a castle) together with a yeerly pen∣sion, as a reward of his valour, and to his comfort and meed for the losse of his sonnes, slaine in that encounter.

[ F] In the South part of this county is Kil-Mallo, the second towne next to Limirick both for wealth and for number of inhabitants, enclosed also with a wall about it: likewise Adar, a little towne in old time fortified, standing upon the same river; which streightwaies emptieth it selfe into Shanon:* 1.90 hard unto which lieth Clan-Gib∣bon, the Lord whereof Iohn Fitz-Girald, called Iohn Oge Fitz-Iohn Fitz Gibbon, and for the gray haires of his head, The white Knight, was attainted by Parliament

for his wicked acts: but his sonne through the clemency of Queene Elizabeth was [ A] restored to his full estate. Of great note and name above the rest in this tract, be∣sides those Bourks,* 1.91 Giraldines, and Fitz-Giralds, are the Laceys, Browns, Hurleys, Cha∣ceys, Sapells, and Pourcels, all of the English race: also the Mac-Shees, Mac-Brien O-Brian, &c. of Irish breed.

THE COUNTY OF TIPPERARY.

THe county Tipperary Westward is bounded with Limirick-shire afore∣said and the river Shanon, Eastward with the county of Kilkenny, toward [ B] the South with the counties of Corke and Waterford, and North with the territorie of the O-Carolls. The South part is an exceeding fertile coun∣try, and yeeldeth corne abundantly, furnished also sufficiently with good and frequent buildings. The West part of it the river Glason passeth through, and watereth with a long course:* 1.92 not farre from the banke whereof standeth Emely, or Awne, a Bishops See, which hath beene in times past, by report, a City very popu∣lous and of great resort. Through the midst of it runneth the noble river Shower, or Swire,* 1.93 which streaming out of Bladin hill, speeding through the lower Ossery (which by the bountifull favour of King Henry the eighth entituled the Butlers Earles of Ossery) and through Thurles, which honoureth them with the dignity of Vicounts, [ C] first goeth unto Holy Crosse, a right famous Abbey in times past (whence the country also adjoining is commonly termed the Countie of the Holy Crosse of Tipperary) and enjoieth certaine peculiar freedomes,* 1.94 granted in honour of a piece of Christs crosse there sometimes preserved. The whole world (saith Saint Cyrill) is full of peeces of this wood, and yet by a continuall miracle (as Paulinus saith) it hath never beene im∣paired.

Thus were Christians perswaded in ancient times. And incredible it is what a con∣fluence there is even yet of people continually upon devotion hither, as unto an holy place. So firmely doth this nation persevere in the old Religion of their forefathers, which the carelesse negligence of their Prelates, and ignorance together, hath be∣yond [ D] all measure encreased, when as there be none to instruct and teach them other∣wise. Then Shour passeth beside Cassile,* 1.95 beautified with an Archiepiscopall digni∣ty by Engenius the third Bishop of Rome, which had under it in times past many Bi∣shops as Suffragans. From thence runneth the river downe, sprinkling Islands here and there in the way, and fetcheth a compasse about Cahir Castle: which out of the family of the Butlers hath a Baron advanced to that dignity by Queene Eliza∣beth:* 1.96 but his sonne stained himselfe with perfidious disloialty, and suffered for it, when as the Castle was by the Earle of Essex taken in the yeere 1599. and him∣selfe cast into prison.* 1.97 Then holding on his course by Clomell, a mercate towne well frequented and fensed, as also by Carick Mac-Griffin, situate upon a rock, whereof al∣so [ E] it tooke name (the habitation of the Earles of Ormond, which together with the honour of Earle of Carrick King Edward the second granted unto Edmund Boteler or Butler) it leaveth Tipperary behinde it,* 1.98 and serveth in steed of a limit to confine the Counties of Waterford and Kilkenny.

Thus much of the places in the South side of this county. As for that which lieth Northward, leane it is and very barren, peaking up with high tops of mountaines, and twelve above the rest, as it were, hudled up together, which they terme Phelem∣ge Modona.* 1.99 This part in Latin is called Ormondia, in Irish Orwowon, that is, the Front of Mounster, in English Ormond, and most men name it very corruptly Wormewood. All the name and glory whereof ariseth from the Earles,* 1.100 of whom there hath beene a [ F] number since Iames Butler, upon whom and his heires King Edward the third con∣ferred this title of honour for terme of life, with the Roialty also and other liberties with Knights fees in the county of Tipperary, the which his posterity through the favour of the Kings of England still enjoy: whence this County is reputed Palatine, and he of some was stiled Earle of Tipperary.* 1.101

[ A] The ancesters of this James were in old time the Butlers (an honourable office) of Ireland; and from thence came this sirname Le Boteler or Butler imposed upon them: and certaine it is that they were linked in most neere alliance unto St. Thomas Becket Archbishop of Canterbury (as who derive their descent from his sister): and that af∣ter hee was murdered, they were by King Henry the second removed into Ireland, who supposed that hee should disburden himselfe of the worlds hatred for that fact, in case he advanced the kinsfolkes and allies of the said Thomas to rich revenues and high honours.

The first Earle of Ormond in this family, was James sonne to Edmund Earle of [ B] Carricke, who wedded the daughter of Humfrey Bohun Earle of Hereford, whom he had by a daughter of King Edward the first: and here was his first step unto this honour. Hereupon James his sonne by this marriage came to be commonly named among the people, The noble Earle. The fifth Earle of these named James (that I may not stand particularly upon every one) received at the hands of King Henry the sixth the title and honour of Earle of Wiltshire, to him and to the heires of his body: who being Lord Deputy of Ireland, as divers others of this race, and Lord Treasurer of England, standing attainted by King Edward the fourth, was straight waies ap∣prehended and beheaded: but his brethren John and Thomas, likewise proclaimed traytors, kept themselves close out of the way: John died at Jerusalem without issue. [ C] Thomas, through the speciall favour of King Henry the seventh, was in the end re∣stored to his blood: who departed this life in the yeere 1515. leaving behinde him two daughters, Anne married to Sir Iames de sancto Leodegano, called commonly Sel∣lenger; and Margaret unto Sir William Bollein, who bare unto him Sir Tho. Bollein: whom King Henry the eighth created first Viscount Rochfort, afterwards Earle of Wiltshire and of Ormond, and afterward took Anne Bollein his daughter to wife; who brought forth for England Queene Elizabeth, a Prince of most happy memory, and with all thankfulnesse to be alwaies remembred by the English and Irish. When Tho∣mas Bollein was dead leaving no issue male, Sir Pierce Butler, a man of great power in Ireland, descended of the Earles race, whom Henry the eighth had before time [ D] created Earle of Osserie, attained also to the title of Ormond, and left the same unto his sonne James, who had issue by the daughter and heire of James Earle of Desmond a sonne named Thomas Earle of Ormond now living; whose faith and loyaltie hath been passing well tried and approved in many troubles and dangerous affaires: who also hath joined in marriage his only daughter unto Theobald Butler his brothers son, whom King James hath advanced lately to the title of Vicount Tullo.

Whereas some of the Irish,* 1.102 and such as would be thought worthy of credit, doe af∣firme, that certaine men in this tract are yeerely turned into Wolves: surely I sup∣pose it be a meere fable: unlesse haply through that malicious humour of predomi∣nant unkind Melancholy, they be possessed with the malady that the Physicians call [ E] 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉,* 1.103 which raiseth and engendereth such like phantasies, as that they imagine themselves to bee transformed into Wolves. Neither dare I otherwise affirme of those metamorphosed Lycaones in Liveland, concerning whom many Writers deli∣ver many and marvellous reports.

Thus farre as touching the Province of Mounster, for the government whereof Queene Elizabeth, when shee bethought herselfe most wisely, politickly, and princely, which way she might procure the good and wealth of Ireland, ordained a Lord President to be the reformer and punisher of inconsiderate rashnesse, the dire∣ctor also and moderator of duty, together with one Assistant, two learned Lawyers, and a Secretary: and the first President that shee made was Sir Warham S. Leger [ F] Knight, a man of great experience in Irish affaires.

[ A]

LAGENIA, or LEINSTER.

THe second part of Ireland, which the inhabitants call Leighnigh, the Bri∣tans Lein, the English Leinster, and Latine writers Lagenia, and in the ancient lives of the Saints, Lagen, lieth all of it on the Sea-side Eastward, bounded toward Mounster with the river Neor (which notwithstanding in many places it passeth beyond) on Connaght side for a good space with Shanon, and to∣ward Meath with the peculiar knowne limits. The Countrey is fertile and fruitfull, the aire most milde and temperate, and the people there inhabiting come neerest of all other [ B] to the gentle disposition and civill conversation of England their neighbour Iland, from whence they are for the most part descended. In Ptolomees dayes therein were seated the BRIGANTES, MENAPII, CAUCI, and BLANI: and peradventure from these Blani are derived and contracted these later and moderne names, Lein, Lei∣nigh, and Leinster. But now it is divided into the Counties of Kilkenny, Caterlogh, Queenes County, Kings County, Kildare, Weisford, and Dublin: to say nothing of Wicklo and Fernes, which either be already, or else are to be laid thereto.

BRIGANTES, or BIRGANTES.

[ C]

THe BRIGANTES seeme to have planted themselves betweene the mouth of the river and the confluence of Neor and Barrow, which in Ptolomee is called BRIGUS. Now because there was an ancient City of the Brigantes in Spaine, named BRIGANTIA, Florianus del Campo laboureth tooth and naile to fetch these BRIGANTES out of his owne countrey Spaine. But if such a con∣jecture may take place, others might with as great probality derive them from the Bri∣gantes of Britaine, a nation both neere and also exceeding populous. But if that be true which I finde in certaine copies, that this people were called BIRGANTES, both hee and the other have missed the marke: For, that these tooke their denomination of the ri∣ver BIRGUS, about which they doe inhabite, the very name is almost sufficient to per∣swade [ D] us. These BRIGANTES, or BIRGANTES, whether you will, dwelt in the Counties of Kilkenny, Ossery, and Caterlogh, watered all with the river BIRGUS.

THE COUNTIE OF KILKENNY.

* 1.104THe Countie of Kilkenny is bounded West with the countie of Tipperary, East with the counties of Weisford and Caterlogh, South with the coun∣tie [ E] of Waterford, North with Queenes Countie, and Northwest with upper Osserie. A countrey that with townes and castles on every side maketh a very goodly shew, and for plenty of all things surpasseth the rest. Neere unto Osserie the mighty and huge mountaines Sleiew Bloemy, which Giraldus calleth Bladinae Montes, with their rising toppes mount up to a wonderfull heigth: out of the bowels whereof, as from their mothers wombe, issue the rivers Shour afore∣named, Neor, and Barrow: which running downe in severall chanels, before they enter into the Ocean joine hand in hand all together, whereupon they in old time tearmed them The three sisters.

The Neor, commonly called also Neure, runneth in manner through the midst of [ F] Kilkenny county:* 1.105 and when it is passed with a forward course by the upper Osserie, the first Baron whereof was Barnabas Fitz-Patrick, promoted to that honor by King Edward the sixth, and hath watered many fortresses on both sides, floweth beside Kilkenny, which is as much to say, as the Cell or Church of Canic; which for the sancti∣mony of his solitary life in this country, was highly renowned: a proper, faire, and

[ A] wealthy Burrough towne this is, and far excelling all other midland Boroughs in this Iland: divided into the Irish towne and the English towne. The Irish towne is, as it were, the Suburbs, and hath in it the said Canicks Church, which both gave name un∣to it, and now also affordeth a See unto the Bishop of Osserie. But the English towne is nothing so ancient, built, as I have read, by Ranulph the third Earle of Chester, and fortified with a wall on the West side by Robert Talbot a Nobleman, and with a ca∣stle by the Butlers. And sure it is that in the division of lands between the daughters of William Mareschal Earle of Penbroch, it fell unto the third daughter, whom Gil∣bert Clare Earle of Glocester married.

[ B] Somewhat beneath the same Neore, standeth a little walled towne, named in Eng∣lish Thomas Towne:* 1.106 in Irish, Bala-Mac-Andan, that is, The towne of Antonies sonne: For it tooke both names of the founder Thomas Fitz-Anthonie, an Englishman, who flourished under King Henry the third, whose heires are yet acknowledged the Lords thereof.* 1.107 Beneath this towne the river Callan voideth his streame into Neore: upon which standeth the third Burrough or incorporate towne of this county, bearing the same name Callan.* 1.108 Like as Inise-Teog, which is the fourth.

The family of Butlers hath spread and branched farre and wide throughout this County, men that with much honour bare a great port, and for their worth and ver∣tues were adorned with the titles of Earles of Carick, Ormond, Wiltshire in England [ C] and of Ossorie, as is before said: and at this day there remaine of their line, beside the Earle of Ormond, Vicount Thurles, and Knight of the Order of Saint George, Vicount Montgarret, Vicount Tullo, the Barons of Dunboyn and of Cahir, a goodly race also and progenie of Noble Gentlemen. The rest of the Gentry in this Tract that are of better birth and parentage be likewise of English descent, as the Graces, Walshes, Lo∣vells, Foresters, Shortels, Blanch-felds, or Blanchevelstons, Drilanas, Comerfords, &c.

THE COUNTY OF CATERLOGH.

THe County of CATERLOGH, by contraction Carlogh, toward the Sunne [ D] rising adjoineth to the County of Kilkenny, wholly, in manner, situate be∣tweene the rivers Barrow and Slane; of a fertile soile and shaded well with woods; hath two townes in it of better note and importance than the rest, both standing upon the West banke of Barrow: namely, Caterlogh, which Leonel Duke of Clarence began to wall; and Bellingham a most renowned Lord Deputy fortified with a castle; Also Leighlin, called in Latine Lechlinia, where there was an Episcopall Chaire, now united to the See of Fernes. These townes have both of them their wards or garrisons, and Constables over them. And whereas the greatest part of this County belonged in right of inheritance unto the Howards Dukes of Norfolke (who by the Earles of Warren drew their descent from the eldest [ E] daughter of William Mareschall Earle of Penbroch) King Henry the eighth by a gene∣rall consent of the States of the Realme tooke unto himselfe,* 1.109 both from them and also from other Noblemen, yea and from Monasteries in England, all their lands and possessions in Ireland; for that the Lords thereof by neglecting in their absence their owne private estates carelesly, brought therewith the publike state into danger, as is already shewed.

From hence Barrow passeth through the Baronie Ydron,* 1.110 which by right belonged to the Carews: for Sir John Carew an English Knight, died seised thereof in the time of King Edward the third: and which Peter Carew within our memorie recovered, as it were by a writ of remitter, after it had been unlawfully usurped, and a long time [ F] in the occupation of unjust detainers.

Upon the river Slane appeareth Tullo, memorable in this regard, that King James hath lately honoured Theobald Butler, the Earle of Ormonds brothers sonne, with the title of Vicount Tullo.* 1.111 The Cavanaghs dwell a great many of them every way hereabouts, who being descended from Dovenald a younger sonne, as they say, the Bastard of Dermot the last King of Leinster, are spred and branched out into a

very great sept or linage, a warlike generation renowned for their good horse-man∣ship, [ A] and who as yet, though they bee exceeding poore, beare themselves in spi∣rit answerable to their ancient nobilitie. But being at deadly feud amongst them∣selves, for I wot not what man-slaughters, which many yeeres agoe they commit∣ted one upon another, they daily work their owne mischiefe by mutuall wrongs and hurts. When as the English had set some of these to oversee and mannage the pos∣sessions they had in this part of Ireland, about King Edward the seconds time, they by little and little usurped the whole country unto themselves, and assumed the name of O-Mores,* 1.112 and taking into their societie the Toles and Brenes, by little and little dis∣seized the English of all the territorie betweene Caterlogh and the Irish sea. [ B]

Among these is the confluence of Neore and Barrow, which after they have tra∣vailed in a joint streame some few miles from hence in one channell, present both their name and their waters unto their eldest sister the Shour, which straightwaies is swallowed up at a mouth full of rockes within the gulfe of the Ocean: where on the left hand there shooteth out a little promontorie with a narrow necke, that sheweth a prettie high tower unto the sailers,* 1.113 erected by the merchants of Rosse, what time they were in their prosperity, for their direction and safer arrivall at the rivers mouth.

QUEENES COUNTIE.

[ C]

ABove Caterlogh, toward the North-west there spreadeth out a little country full of woods and bogs,* 1.114 named in Irish Lease, and QUEENES Countie in English: which Queene Mary ordained to be a Countie, by Commission given unto Thomas Ratcliffe Earle of Sussex, then Lord Deputie, who reduced it into the tearmes of civill order and governement: whence it is that the chiefe towne thereof is called Mary-Burgh:* 1.115 where certaine garrison souldiers with their Seneschall keep ward, and have much adoe to defend themselves against the O-Mores (who beare themselves as the ancient Lords thereof) against Mac-Gilpatric, the O-Dempsies, and others, a mischievous and tumultuous kind of people, who daily practise and plot all they can to annoy the English, and to shake off [ D] the yoke of lawes. For to subdue this wilde and hostile part of the countrey, at the first entrie of the English thither, Meilere was sent: For whom Hugh Lacie gover∣nour of Ireland erected one Castle at Tahmelio, like as a second at Obowy, a third likewise upon the river Barrow, and a fourth at Norrach. But among the rest, he for∣tified Donemaws,* 1.116 an ancient Castle standing in the most plentifull part of the terri∣torie, which came hereditarily unto the Breoses Lords of Brecknocke, by Eua the younger daughter of William Mareschall Earle of Pembroch, and what way as Bar∣row, which rising out of Slew Blomey hills Westward, runneth solitarie alone amongst the woods,* 1.117 he visiteth that ancient RHEBA, mentioned by Ptolomee, which keeping the name still intire is called at this day Rheban: but insteed of a citie it is altogether, [ E] as one saith, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is, A citie citilesse, or, The remaines of that which was a citie; even a few little cottages with a fortresse. Notwithstanding it giveth the title of a Baronet unto that Nobleman Nicholas of Saint Michael, the Lord thereof, who is commonly called the Baronet of Rheban.* 1.118

KINGS COUNTIE.

LIke as the Queenes Countie aforesaid was so named in honour of Queene Marie, so the territorie bordering next unto it Northward, divided with Barrow running betweene,* 1.119 and called in times past Offalie, [ F] was in honour of Philip King of Spaine her husband, tearmed Kings Countie,* 1.120 and the principall towne in it Philips Towne; where is placed a Se∣neschall with a ward: and divers Gentlemen of English blood are here planted, namely, the Warrens, Her-berts, Colbies, Mores, and Leicesters: amongst the I∣rish septs of O-Conor, unto whom a great part hereof in old time belonged; Mac-Coghlan,

[ A] O-Maily, Fox, and others stand stoutly in defence of the lands wonne by their ancestors, and left unto them. Now these naturall Irish inhabitants grumble and complaine that their livings and patrimonies have beene taken from them, and no other lands assigned and set out for them to live in: Hence it is that taking hold of every occasion to make uprores, they put the English dwelling among them to much trouble ever and anon: yea and oftentimes in revengefull minds festered and poisoned with hostile hatred, they breake out furiously into open and actuall rebel∣lions.

[ B] THE COUNTY OF KILDAR.

OVer against these all along Eastward, affronteth the county of Kildar a most rich and plentifull country: concerning the pastures whereof Giraldus Cam∣brensis useth these verses of Virgill.

Et quantum longis carpunt armenta diebus, Exiguâ tant••m gelidus ros nocte reponit. And looke how much when daies are long the beasts by grasing eat, So much cold dewes make good againe by night when 'tis not great.

[ C]

The chiefe and head towne of the shire is Kildar,* 1.121 much honoured and graced in the first infancy of the Irish Church, by reason of Saint Brigid a Virgin right ve∣nerable and highly esteemed of for her devotion and virginity (I meane not that Bri∣gid which about 240. yeeres agoe erected that order of the sisters or Nunnes of Saint Brigid: namely, that within one Monastery both Monkes and Maidens should live, divided asunder by walls, and suffered onely one to see another) but another Bri∣gid of greater antiquity by farre, as who was a Disciple of Saint Patricke, of great fame and renowne throughout Ireland, England, and Scotland. Whose miracles and fire never going out, but kept by Nunnes, as it were, in that secret Sanctuary of [ D] Vesta, and of the ashes that never encrease, are mentioned by writers. This Kildar is adorned with an Episcopall See, named in the Popes letters in old time, Episcopa∣tus Darensis. After the entrance of the English into Ireland, it was the habitation of Richard Earle of Pembroch, then of William Mareschall his sonne in law, that married his daughter, Earle of Penbroch likewise: by whose fourth daughter Sibyll it came to William Ferrars Earle of Derby, and by his daughter likewise begotten of her, unto William Lord Vescy: whose sonne William Vescy, Lord chiefe Justice of Ireland, standing in termes of disfavour and disgrace with King Edward the First, for certain quarrels arising between him and John the sonne of Thomas Fitz-Girald, and being bereft of his only sonne lawfully begotten, granted and surrendred Kildare [ E] and other his lands in Ireland unto the King, so that he might enfeoffe his base sonne surnamed De Kildare, in his other lands in England. And a little while after, the said John sonne of Thomas Fitz-Girald, whose ancesters (descended from Girald Winde∣sor, Castellan of Pembroch) had with passing great valour performed most painefull service in the conquest of this Iland,* 1.122 was by Edward the second King of England endowed with the castle and towne of Kildar, together with the title and name of Earle of Kildar.

These Fitz-Giralds, or as they now tearme them, the Giraldines, are a right noble family, and for their exploits highly renowned: by whose valour, as one said, The Englishmen both kept the sea coasts of Wales, and also forced and won the walls of Ire∣land. [ F] And verily this house of Kildare flourished a long time without taint of honour and name (as which never bare armes against their Prince) untill that Thomas Fitz-Girald, the sonne of Girald Fitz-Girald Earle of Kildare, and Lord Deputy of Ire∣land under King Henry the eighth, hearing that his father sent for into England, and accused for misgoverning Ireland, was put to death; upon this light and false rumour, unadvisedly and rashly carried away with the heat of youth, put himselfe

into armes against Prince and countrey, solicited the Emperour Charles the fifth to [ A] enter and seize upon Ireland, wasted the land farre and neere with fire and sword, laid siege to Dublin, and killed the Archbishop thereof: For which outrages shortly after he with five of his unkles were hanged, when his father for very sorrow was dead before. Howbeit Queene Mary restored the family unto their blood and full estate, when shee advanced Girald brother unto the aforesaid Thomas to bee Earle of Kildare, and Baron of Offaly. He ended this life about the yeere 1558. His eldest son Girald died before his father, leaving one onely daughter married to Sir Robert Digby: Henry his second sonne succeeded, who when he had by his wife L. Francis daughter to Charles Earle of Nottingham only two daughters, William the third son [ B] succeeded in the Earledome, who was drowned in passing into Ireland in the yeere 1599. having no issue. And then the title of Earle of Kildare came to Girald Fitz-Girald sonne to Edward their Unkle, who was restored to his blood in linage to make title by descent lineall or collaterall from his father and brother, and all his ancestours, any attaindour or corruption of blood to the contrary notwithstanding. There be also in this County these places of better note than the rest; Naas a mer∣cate towne, Athie upon the river Barrow, Mainoth a castle belonging to the Earles of Kildare, and a towne unto which King Edward the first, in favour of Girald Fitz-Moris granted a mercate and Faire: Castle Martin, the chiefe seat of the family of Fitz-Eustace; which descending from the Poers in the County of Waterford, for [ C] their valour received the honour of a Parliament-Barons,* 1.123 bestowed upon Rowland Fitz-Eustace by King Edward the fourth, together with the Manour of Port-lester, and the title of Vicount Baltinglas, at the hands of King Henry the eighth: which dignities with a faire patrimony Rowland Fitz-Eustace, seduced by the religious pretext unto rebellion, and flying his countrey lost by attaindour under Queene Eli∣zabeth. The families here remaining, besides the Giraldines, that be of higher birth above others, fetch their descent also out of England, namely, the Ougans, De-la- Hides, Ailmers, Washes, Boisels, Whites, Suttons, &c. As for the Giants dance, which they talke of that Merlin by art magick translated out of this territorie unto Salis∣bury plaine, as also of that most bloody battell which shall be one day betweene the [ D] English and the Irish at Molleaghmast, I willingly leave unto the credulous lovers of fabulous antiquity, and the vaine beleevers of prophesies. For my purpose is not to give fond tales the telling. These bee the midland counties of Leinster: now are we to goe unto those by the sea side.

THE COUNTY OF WEISFORD.

BEneath that mouth, at which Barrow, Neore, and Shoure, the sister-like rivers, having embraced one another and joyned hands, are laid up in the Ocean, there sheweth it selfe Eastward in a Promontorie [ E] where the shore fetcheth a compasse round, the County of Weisford or Wexford. In Irish, County Reogh, where Ptolomee in times past pla∣ced the MENAPII. That these Menapians came hither from the Menapii, a nation in low Germany that dwelt by the sea coasts, the name doth after a sort imply. But whether that Carausius were of this or that nation,* 1.124 who taking upon him the imperiall purple robe seized upon Britaine against the Emperour Dioclesian, I leave to others. For Aurelius Victor calleth him a Citizen of Menapia; and the Citie Menapia is place by the Geographers not in those Low-countries of Germany, but in Ireland. In this county, upon the river Barrow, there flourished sometimes Rosse, a great Citie, well traded by merchants and peopled with inhabitants, fensed with [ F] a wall of great compasse by Isabell daughter to the Earle Richard Strongbow: and that is the only monument which now it sheweth. For by reason of discord and home broiles betweene the Citizens and the religious orders, it is a good while since brought in manner to nothing.

More East, Duncannon, a castle with a garrison, standeth over the river, so as that

[ A] it is able to command the river, that no ships should passe either to Waterford, or to Rosse: and therefore it was thought good policie, to fortifie this place when the Spaniards hovered and gaped for Ireland, in the yeere 1588. From thence at the very mouth of the river, there runneth out a narrow necke of land, which presenteth unto the sailers an high Turret, erected by the Citizens of Rosse when they were in flourishing estate, that they might more safely enter into the rivers mouth. A little from hence standeth Tintern,* 1.125 upon the shore with many winding creekes, where William Mareschal Earle of Penbroch founded a notable Abbay, and called it de Voto, for that he had vowed to God to erect an Abbay, when hee was tossed in a sore and [ B] dangerous tempest: and being after shipwracke cast up a land in this place, performed it here according to his vow.

This very Promontory Ptolomee calleth HIERON,* 1.126 that is, Holy: and in the same signification, I would make no doubt but the inhabitants also called it. For the utmost towne thereof, at which the Englishmen landed, and set first foot in this Iland, they named in their native language Banna, which soundeth all one with Holy.

From this Holy point, the shore turning full upon the East, runneth forth along Northward; over against which there lye flats and shallowes in the sea, that indan∣ger many a ship, which the Mariners call The Grounds. In this place Ptolomee setteth the river MODONA, and at the mouth thereof the city MENAPIA, which are so stript [ C] out of their names, that I am out of all hope in so great darknesse to discover any twy-light of the truth. But seeing there is one onely river that voideth it selfe in this place, which cutteth this county as it were just in the mids, and is now called Slane: seeing also at the very mouth thereof, where it maketh a Poole, there is a towne by a German name called Weisford, the head place of the whole county, I may the more boldly conjecture that Slane was that MODONA, and Weisford MENAPIA; and so much the rather, because this name is of a later date, to wit, a meere German, and given unto it by those Germans, whom the Irish tearme Oustmans. This towne is for the bignesse inferiour to many, but as memorable as any; because it was the first in all Ireland that when Fitz-Stephen, a most valiant Captaine, assaulted it, yeelded [ D] it selfe unto the protection of the English, and became a Colonie of the English: Whence this whole territorie is passing well peopled with English, who to this very day use the ancient Englishmens apparell and their language; yet so, as that they have a certaine kinde of mungrell speech between English and Irish. Dermot, who first drew the Englishmen over into Ireland, granted this and the territorie lying to it unto Fitz-Stephen for ever, who beganne a Burgh hard by at Carricke: and albe∣it the place were strong by naturall situation, yet hee helped it by art. But when as the said Fitz-Stephen had surrendred up his right into the hands of King Henry the second, he made it over to Richard Earle of Penbroch, that he should hold it in Fee from him and the Kings of England as superiour Lords. From whom by the Earles [ E] Mareschals, the Valences of the Lusignian line in France, and the Hastings, it descen∣ded to the Greies Lords of Ruthin, who commonly in ancient Charters are named Lords of Weisford; although in the reigne of King Henry the sixth, Iohn Talbot is once called in the Records Earle of Shrewsbury and of Weisford. Touching this ri∣ver, take with you this verse, such an one as it is, of Nechams making.

Ditat Eniscortum flumen quod Slana vocatur, Hunc cernit Weisford se sociare sibi. The river which is called Slane enricheth Eniscort, And this said river Weisford sees gladly with him to sort.

For Eniscourt, a Burrough or incorporate Towne, is seated upon it. More inward [ F] by the same rivers side, ye have Fernes, known onely for the dignity of an Episcopall See in it; which in old time the Giraldines fortified with a Castle. Hard by, but be∣yond the river Slane dwell the Cavenaghs, Donels, Montaghs, & O-Mores, Irishmen of a stirring and tumultuous spirit: and among them the Sinottes, Roches, and Pep∣pards, Englishmen. On this side Slane the men of greatest name bee the Vicounts Mont-Garret: of whom the first was Richard Butler, a younger son of Pierce Earle

of Ormond, adorned with that title by Edward the sixth, and many more of the same [ A] sirname; the Devereuxes, Staffords, Chevers, Whites, Forlongs, Fitz-Harris, Browns, Hores, Haies, Cods, Maylers, all of the English race and blood, like as be most of the common people.

CAUCI.

* 1.127THe CAUCI, who were likewise a people inhabiting the sea coast of Germany, seated themselves next unto the Menapii, but not so farre distant a sunder as those in Germany. Their country lying upon the [ B] sea was that which the O Tools and O Birns, families of Irishry dwel in,* 1.128 men fed and maintained by wickednesse and bloodshed, impati∣ent of rest and quietnesse; and who presuming upon the strength of their holds and fastnesses, carry an obstinate minde against all lawes, and implacable hatred to Eng∣lish. For the repressing of whose audacious outrage, and to strengthen the authority of lawes, there hath been serious consultation had by most prudent and politicke per∣sons in the yeere 1578. that these small territories should be reduced into the forme of a county: and set out they were into sixe Baronies within certain appointed limits, which should make the county of Wicklo or Arcklo.* 1.129 For a place this is of greatest name, and the Earle of Ormonds castle, who write themselves among other honoura∣ble [ C] titles in their stile, Lords of Arcklo: under which castle that river which Ptolomee calleth OVOCA falleth into the sea, making a creeke, and as Giraldus Cambrensis wri∣teth, The nature of this river is such, that as well when the sea floweth, as when it ebbeth, in this creeke it retaineth still the taste of the naturall freshnesse, saving his owne water entire and voide of all brackishnesse, even as far as to the maine sea.

COMITATUS DUBLINIENSIS, The Countie of Divelin.

BEyond the CAUCI inhabited the EELANI, where now lieth the [ D] county of DUBLIN or DIVELIN;which on the East side is whol∣ly washed with the Irish sea, on the West bounded with the coun∣ty of Kildare, on the South joyning to the little territories of the O∣Tooles and O-Birns,* 1.130 and those which they tearme the Glynnes, and limi∣ted Northward with the county of Meth and Nanny a little river: the soile there∣of bringeth forth corne abundantly, and yeeldeth grasse and fodder right plente∣ously, besides it is well stored with all sorts of living creatures that are gotten by hunting and hawking for the table: but so destitute, for the greatest part, of woods, that in most places they use a clammy kind of fat turfe, or Sea-coale out of England for their fewell. In the South part thereof, which is lesse inhabited and more unci∣vill, [ E] and riseth up here and there with an hilly ridge, full enough of woods, and under which lye hollow vallies shaded with trees, which they call Glynnes; every place is sore annoied with the two pernicious and mischievous septs or kinreds of the O-Tooles and the O-Birnes. Among these Glynnes appeareth the Bishopricke of Glandilaw, but utterly desolate, ever since it was annexed to the Archbishopricke of Divelin. All this county besides is passing well replenished with inhabitants and townes, and for wealthy port, and a certain peculiar finenesse and neatnesse that they use, surpasseth all other parts of Ireland, and is divided into five distinct Baronies, namely, Rath down, New castle, Castle-Knoc, Cowloc, and Bal-rodry, which not with∣standing I am not able to goe through as I would, for that their bounds are unknown [ F] to mee.

First therefore I will runne along the sea coast only, and from thence, as the cour∣ses of the rivers lead me, survey the more in-land places; for there is no part of this county twenty miles from the shore.* 1.131 To beginne then at the South side, the first place that sheweth it selfe upon this coast is Wicklo: where there standeth over the

[ A] narrow haven a rocke, enclosed within a strong wall in stead of a castle, over which, as divers other castles besides of this kingdome, there can none by authority of Par∣liament bee set as Constable, but an Englishman borne, because to the hurt of the State, the Irishmen that were Constables had both defended the same badly, and also by a certaine connivencie suffered the prisoners to make escapes. As touch∣ing this haven hearken what Giraldus saith, who tearmeth it Winchiligillo. There is an haven at Winchiligillo, on that side of Ireland where it lieth neerer unto Wales, that ordinarily and usually at every ebbe of the sea receiveth waters flowing into it; and a∣gain at every return of tide, dischargeth and voideth the said water which it entertained: [ B] and when as the sea in the ebbe hath now by the going away of the tide forsaken the creeke, yet the river that runneth in by every chinke and winding cranke, becommeth bitter and salt with continuall brackishnesse.

Then from the toppe of an hill New-castle looketh into the sea, and seeth the shelves of sand, which they call The Grounds, lying opposite a great way in length:* 1.132 Howbeit betweene them and the shore it is reported to bee seven fathom deepe of water. A little higher, where the riveret Bray commeth into the sea, appeareth Old-Court, the possessions of the Walshes of Caryckmain, who as they are of ancient stocke and gentry,* 1.133 so their family hath shot forth many branches in this tract. Next unto it is Powers or Poers-Court,* 1.134 belonging in times past, as appeareth by the name, [ C] unto the Poers; a large and great castle, untill that Tirlough O Toole, after hee had revolted and rebelled, undermined and overthrew it. From Bray mouth the shore for to let in a creeke bendeth and windeth it selfe inward, and at the very bent of the elbow lieth a little Island called Saint Benets, belonging to the Archbishop of Divelin.

This creeke or Bay is called Dublin Haven, into which Liffy the noblest river of this county out-powreth his streame:* 1.135 who albeit his spring head where hee riseth bee but fifteene miles from his mouth, yet with so many winding crankes he fetch∣eth such a compasse, that first hee turneth into the South by Saint Patrickes land; then Westward, afterwards North, watering the county of Kildare, and at length in∣to [ D] the East by Castle-Knoc, the Barony in times past of the Tirils, whose inheritance by the females was devolved upon other about the yeere 1370. and so by Kilmai∣nam, an house in old time of Saint Iohns Knights of Jerusalem, now converted to a retiring place of the Lords Deputies. This Liffy doubtlesse is mentioned by Ptolomee, but through carelesnesse of the transcribers banished out of his owne due place. For the river LIBNIUS is set downe in the copies of Ptolomee at the very same latitude or elevation of the Pole, in the other part of the Iland, where there is no such river at all: but let him, if it please you, by a writ of recovery returne out of exile now to his owne city EBLANA, from whence uniustly he hath been for a time alienated: and take withall, if you think good, these verses of Necham as touching this river.

[ E] Visere Castle-Knoc non dedignatur * 1.136 Istum Dublini suscipit unda maris. To see and visit Castle-Knock Liffy doth not disdaine, At Dublin ready is the sea this streame to entertaine.

For seated it is seven miles from his mouth,* 1.137 which alone fame may celebrate for all the cities of Ireland. This is that very city which Ptolomee called EBLANA, we DIVELIN, the Latine writers Dublinium and Dublinia, the Welsh Britans Dinas Dulin, the English Saxons in times past Duplin, and the Irish Bala-cleigh, that is, The towne upon Hurdles: for men say when it was built the foundation was laid upon Hurdles, the place was so fennish and moorish: like as Hispalis or Sivill in Spaine, [ F] which Isidore reporteth to have been so named, because it stood in a marish ground, upon piles and stakes deepely pitched into the earth. For the antiquity of Dublin I finde no certainty; but that very ancient it is the authority of Ptolomee perswa∣deth me to thinke. Saxo Grammaticus writeth, how it was pitifully rent and dismem∣bred in the Danish warres: afterwards it came under the subjection of Edgar King of England, which his Charter before mentioned confirmeth, wherein hee calleth it

the most Noble City of Ireland. Then the Norwegians possessed themselves of it: [ A] Whence in the life of Gryffith Ap Cynan Prince of Wales, we read that Harald of Norway when he had subdued the greatest part of Ireland, built Develin. This may seeme to be that Harald Harfager, that is, with the faire lockes or tresses, who was the first King of Norway, whole line in descent goeth thus in the life of Gryffith: Ha∣rald begat a sonne named Auloed:* 1.138 Auloed begat another Auloed; he had a sonne na∣med Sitric King of Develin: Sitric he begat Auloed, whose daughter Racwella was mo∣ther to Gryffith Ap Cynan borne at Dublin, whiles Tirlough reigned in Ireland. But this is extravagant. Develin at length when the English first arrived in Ireland, yeel∣ded unto their valour, and by them was manfully defended, when Ausculph Prince [ B] of the Dublinians, and afterwards Gottred King of the Isles fiercely on every side as∣saulted it: within a while after a Colony of Bristow-men was deduced hither, unto whom King Henry the second granted this City (happely at that time dispeopled) for to inhabite, with all the Franchises and free Customes, which the men of Bristow have, and that by those very words which I have alledged. Since which time it hath flou∣rished every day more and more, and in many tumultuous times and hard streights given notable proofe of most faithfull loyaltie to the Crowne of England.

This is the roiall City and seat of Ireland, a famous towne for Merchandize, the chiefe Court of Justice, in munition strong, in buildings gorgeous, in Citizens po∣pulous.* 1.139 An old writer calleth it, a City in regard of the people noble, of the site most [ C] pleasant, by reason of the sea and river meeting together, rich and plentifull in fish, for trafficke famous, for the green plain delightfull and lovely, beset with woods of mast-bea∣ring trees, environed about with Parkes harbouring Deere. And William of New∣borrow of it writeth thus: Divelin a maritime citie is the mother citie of all Ireland, ha∣ving to it a haven passing well frequented, for trafficke and entercourse of Merchants matchable with our London. Seated it is in a right delectable and wholsome place: for to the South yee have hils mounting up aloft, Westward an open champion ground, and on the East the sea at hand and in sight; the river Liffy running downe at North-East affordeth a safe rode and harbour for ships. By the river side are certain wharfes or Kaies,* 1.140 as we terme them, whereby the violent force of the water might be restrai∣ned. [ D] For this verbe (Caiare) in old writers signified to Keep in, to restrain and represse: which that most learned * 1.141 Scaliger hath well noted. A very strong wall of rough buil∣ding stone reacheth hence along by the sides of it (and the same toward the South for∣tified also with rampires) which openeth at six gates, from whence there runne forth suburbs of a great length.

* 1.142Toward the East is Dammes gate, and hard by standeth the Kings castle on high, most strongly fensed with ditches, towers, and an Armory or Store-house built by Henry Loundres the Archbishop, about the yeere 1220. In the East suburbs neere unto Saint Andrew the Apostles Church, Henry the second King of England, as Ho∣veden reporteth, caused a roiall palace (or rather a banqueting house) to be erected for [ E] himselfe, framed with wonderfull workmanship most artificially of smoothed watles after the manner of this country, wherein himselfe with the Kings and Princes of Ireland kept a solemne feast upon Christmas day.

From hence is to bee seene just over against it a beautifull Colledge (in which place there stood in old time the Monasterie of All-Hallowes) consecrated unto the name of the holy and indivisible Trinity,* 1.143 which for the exercise and polishing of good wits with good literature, Queene Elizabeth of most happy memory endow∣ed with the priviledges of an University; and being furnished of late with a notable Library, giveth no small hope that both religion, and all the exquisite and liberall sci∣ences will return eftsoones after their long exile to Ireland, as to their ancient home [ F] (unto which, as unto a Mart of Arts and good learning, strangers sometime used to flocke and repaire.) And verily in the reigne of Edward the Second Alexander Bicknor Archbishop of Divelin began to recall the profession of learning hither,* 1.144 ha∣ving obtained from the Pope the priviledges of an University, and erected also pub∣like Lectures: but the troublesome times that presently ensued, interrupted the lau∣dable

[ A] enterprise of that good man. The North gate openeth at the bridge built with arched work of new hewen stone by King John, and this joineth Oustmantowne to the City. For here the Oustmans, who came over, as Giraldus writeth, out of Norway and the parts of the Northren Islands, planted themselves, as the Annales beare re∣cord, about the yeere of salvation 1050.

In this suburbe stood in times past the goodly Church of Saint Maries of Oust∣manby (for so in a Charter of King John it is called) an house also founded for preach∣ing Friers, called of them Black Friers, unto which of late daies have beene transla∣ted the Judiciall Courts of the kingdome. In the South quarter of the City stand [ B] two gates, Ormonds gate and Newgate (which is their common house of correction.) These lead unto the longest suburbe of all, called Saint Thomas street, and a mag∣nificent Abbey of the same name, called Thomas Court▪* 1.145 founded and endowed in times past with very ample revenues by King Henry the second for the expiation of the murder of Thomas Archbishop of Canterbury. Into the South openeth Pauls gate, and that which taketh the name of Saint Nicolas, making way into Saint Patrickes suburbe, wherein standeth the Archbishops Palace, knowne by the name of Saint Sepulchres, and a most stately Church dedicated unto Saint Patricke, right goodly to bee seene, with faire embowed workes, stone pavements, an arched roofe over head of stone worke, and a very high tower steeple. What time this Church [ C] was first built, it is, to say truth, uncertaine. That Gregorie King of the Scots came unto it about the yeere 890. the Scottish Historie doth record. The same afterward being much enlarged by John King of England, was ordained first to be a Church of Prebends by Iohn Comyn Archbishop of Dublin in the yeere 1191. and Pope Celestine the third confirmed the same. Then after him, Henry Loundres his successour in the Archbishopricke augmented it with dignities of Personages (for I may be bold to use here the founders words) and framed it conformable to the immu∣nities, orders, and approved customes of the Church of Salisbury. But in our daies it main∣taineth a Deane, a Chanter, a Chancellor, a Treasurer, two Arch-Deacons, and two and twenty Prebendaries;* 1.146 The only light and lamp (that I may not conceale the most [ D] ample testimony which the Parliament of the kingdome giveth unto it) of all godly and Ecclesiasticall discipline and order in Ireland.

There is another Cathedrall Church also standing in the very heart of the City, which being consecrate unto the Holy Trinity, is commonly called Christs Church; touching the building thereof thus we read in the ancient records of the same Church: Sitric King of Dublin, the sonne of Ableb Earle of Dublin, gave unto the blessed Tri∣nity, and to Donatus the first Bishop of Dublin, a place to found a Church in unto the ho∣ly Trinity; and not onely so, but gold and silver also hee bestowed sufficiently for the buil∣ding of the Church and the whole close. This was done in the yeere 1012. in which, as Lancarvanensis avoucheth, Sitric the sonne of Abloie (for so he calleth him) lived [ E] and flourished in great name. The worke begun by Donatus, Laurence Archbishop of Dublin, Richard Strongbow Earle of Penbroch, commonly called Earle of Strigu∣lia (whose tomb is here to be seen, repaired by Sir Henry Sidney Lord Deputy) Ro∣bert Fitz-Stephen, and Reimund Fitz-Girald finished. Hard at the South side of this Church there standeth a stately Towne-hall, built of foure square stone, and called the Tolestale,* 1.147 where causes are tried before the Maior of the City, and where the Citizens use to hold their Sessions and publike assemblies, for it enjoyeth many immunities. In times past this Citie had for the chiefe Magistrate a Provost; but in the yeere of our redemption 1409. King Henry the fourth granted them li∣cence to chuse every yeere a Maior and two Bailifs: also that the Maior should have [ F] a gilt sword carried before him for ever. But afterwards, King Edward the sixth changed the Bailiffes into Sheriffes. Neither wanteth any thing here which a man can wish for in a most flourishing City, save only that an heape of sand, which the eb∣bing and flowing of the sea casteth up into the mouth of Liffy, doth so dam up and bar the haven, that it is not able to bring up any great vessels but at high water. Thus much of Dublin, for the most part of which I acknowledge my selfe beholden unto

the diligence and learning of Iames Usher Chancellor of S. Patricks Church, whose [ A] variety of knowledge and judgement are far above his yeeres.

As touching Robert Vere Earle of Oxford, whom King Richard the second, a Prince too too lavish in giving honourable titles,* 1.148 made Marquesse of Dublin, and afterwards Duke of Ireland, I have spoken already, and reason I have none to re∣peat the same here. Yet will I note thus much, which I have since happened upon in the Records. When as King Richard aforesaid had advanced that Robert Vere Earle of Oxford to bee Marquesse of Dublin, and had given to him the Seigniory of Ireland during his life:* 1.149 hee, desirous to augment his honour by more ennoblishing him with honourable Armes, granted also that as long as hee should live, and hold [ B] the said Seigniory, he should beare these Armes, Azure 3. Crownes Or in a Bordur, in his Standards, Pennons, Coat-armours, and other things wherein Armes are to be shewed in all Marshall matters, and elsewhere at his pleasure. But this grant was soone after recalled, and those Armes abolished.

Where the river Liffy lodgeth himselfe in the Ocean, Houth standeth, compassed in manner round about with the sea: of which the Noblemen sirnamed Saint Lau∣rence, and dwelling there,* 1.150 become named Barons of Houth; men of rare felicity, for that in so long a descent of their line (for they are able to derive their pedegree from the time of King Henry the second) there hath of them, by report, none beene at∣tainted of high treason, none left ward in his minority. And within a little of this place is Malchide,* 1.151 or Molachid, ennobled by the Lords thereof the Talbots, English [ C] by their first originall.

More within the country, Northward there adjoineth hard to the county of Dub∣lin, Fingall,* 1.152 that is, if you interpret it out of the Irish language, a nation of forreiners, (for they use to nominate the English Gall, as one would say, strangers, and Saissones, as it were, Saxons) a little country, but very good and passing well husbanded; even the garner and barn of this kingdome, so great store of corne it yeeldeth every yeere. And here the soile striveth after a sort with the painfull labour of the husbandman, which in other places throughout this Iland lying neglected, without tillage and manuring, seemeth to make a very grievous complaint of the inhabitants sloth and [ D] lazinesse. There are planted every where throughout this county right worshipfull families, nobly descended of English blood; and namely, besides those which I have already mentioned, the Plonkets, Barnwels, Russels, Talbots, Dillons, Nettervils, Holy∣woods, Lutterels, Burnels, Fitz▪ Williams, Gouldings, Usshers, Cadleys, Finglases, Sar∣felds, Blackneys, Cruceys, Baths, &c.

Thus farre forth summarily of Leinster, which in old time reached no farther. Now I wot not whether it bee worth the laughing at or the relating, that Thomas Stukely,* 1.153 when hee had in England and Ireland both made shipwracke of his good name, credit, and fortunes, having wound himselfe out of the danger of the lawes, curried such favour with Pope Gregory the thirteenth, what with making many [ E] faire promises, and what with bragging of great matters, that hee received at his hands these titles,* 1.154 Marquesse of Leinster, Earle of Weisford and Caterlogh, Vicount Murrough, and Baron of Rosse and Ydron. With which titles hee being puffed up in pride, whiles he thought to conquer Ireland, went aside into Africk, and there with the three Kings that were slaine in one battell, made up the enterlude of his life with an honest close and catastrophe.

MIDIA, OR MEDIAMETH.

THe rest of the Countrey of the Eblani was in ancient time a king∣dome, [ F] and the fifth part of Ireland, which in their owne native lan∣guage they call Miih, the English Meth, Giraldus nameth it in Latin Midia and Media, perhaps, because it is in the very middle of the I∣land. For they say that Killair a castle in these parts, which seem∣eth to be in Ptolomee LABERUS,* 1.155 is as it were the Navill of Ireland.

[ A] And the very name implieth no lesse: For Lair in the Irish tongue signifieth The Middle. This Meth lieth stretched out from the Irish sea as farre as to the river Sha∣non: For the soile thereof, as saith Bartholomaeus Anglicus, Fertile it is in corne, pasture ground, and cattell, plentifull in fish, flesh, and other victualls of white meat, as butter cheese, and milke, watered also with rivers. The situation is delectable to the eye, and an wholsome aire. In regard of woods and marishes in the skirts and borders, it hath a very hard accesse and entry unto it: And therefore, considering the multitude of people, the strength of castles and townes, is i•• commonly called for the peace thereof, the CHAM∣BER of IRELAND. Within the memorie of our fathers, because the country was [ B] too large for to be governed by one Sheriffe, and to the end that justice might with more facility be ministred, it was divided by authority of Parliament in the 38. yeere of King Henry the eighth into two parts, namely, the county of East Meth, and the county of West-Meth.

THE COUNTY OF EAST-METH.

THe County of EAST-METH is environed round about with the county of Kildar South, with the county of Dublin and the sea East, with the territorie of Louth North, and with the county of West [ C] Meth on the West. The whole is divided into 18. Baronies: Dueleke, Scrine, Slane, Margallen, Navan, Kenles, halfe the Barony of Fower neer to Kenles, Killalou, Demore, Cloue, Moylagh, Loghern, Oldcastle, Luyn, Moyfeuraragh, Deese, Rath-touth, and Dunboyn.

Boyn, which Ptolomee calleth BUVINDA, Giraldus BOANDUS, a noble river sprin∣ging out of the North side of the Kings county, runneth through this county. In the hither part on this side Boyn, these are the places memorable: Galtrim, where the Huseys have dwelt a long time: Killin Castle, which Hugh Lacy Custos of Ireland un∣der King Henry the second built; and Dunsany, which have their Parliament Barons, Noblemen of ancient descent out of the family of the Plonkets, which [ D] others fetch out of Denmark: but they beare the very same Armes in sundry colours, which Alan Plonket of Kilpecke in England did: who also under King Edward the first lived in the dignity and port of a Baron. Now this house of the Plonkets in Ire∣land came up and grew to bee of high estimation, ever since that Sir Christopher Plonket, a valiant and wise man (Deputy, as they terme him, unto Richard Duke of Yorke, Lord Lievtenant in King Henry the sixth his time) was advanced to the dig∣nity of Baron of Killin, which fell unto him by his wife, heire to the family of the Cu∣sakes: and his second son by his own worth & valour obtained the title of Baron Dun∣sany. On the farther side of Boyn,* 1.156 are Trimletstoun, which hath his Baron out of the fa∣mily of the Barnwells (for King Edward the fourth promoted Sir Robert Barnwell to [ E] the honour of a Parliamentary Baron;) Gormanston, which now hath had honourable Vicounts, men of good desert in the Common-wealth, descended from the line of the Prestons (as it is verily thought) in Lancashire;* 1.157 and Slane, which is able likewise to shew Barons thereof, out of the family of the Flemings: and amongst them stands Aboy, a mercate towne well inhabited and of good resort, upon the river Boyn: which when it hath passed beside Glan-Iores, that is, The land of the sonnes of George (this George was of the Birminghams progeny, whose heire by marriage brought a faire inheritance with the castle of Carbray unto the Prestons) runneth under Trim a pretty towne of trade, and one of the better ••ort, where William Pepard erected a castle. This was an ancient Baronie of the Lacies, which accrewed unto the titles [ F] of the Dukes of Yorke, who stiled themselves Lords of Trim. Then floweth it beside Navan,* 1.158 which hath a Baron or Baronet, but not of the Parliament house, and affor∣deth for the most part a dwelling house unto the Bishop of the Dioecesse, who hath now no Cathedrall Church, but doth all with the assent of the Clergy of Meth.

His See seemeth to have beene at Cluanarard,* 1.159 which is called also Clunart, where Hugh Lacy in times past built a castle: For in the letters Apostolicall we read him

thus, Episcopus Midensis, five Cluanarardensis, that is, The Bishop of Meth or Cluana∣rard, [ A] and corruptly, as it is to be thought, in a Roman Provinciall Elnamirand. Boyn now by this time carrying a fuller streame, after it hath with an hasty course swiftly passed on certain miles, neere unto Drodagh emptieth himselfe into the sea. Of this swift running what if I should thinke this Boyn tooke his name: for Boan both in Irish and British also signifieth swift, and our Poet Necham of this river hath thus versi∣fied.

Ecce Boan qui Trim celer influit, istius undas Subdere se salsis Drogheda cernit aquis. Lo Boin that swiftly unto Trim doth run, and marke withall, How at Tredagh his streame into the salt sea gulfe doth fall. [ B]

The men of greatest reputation and name in this county, besides those whom I re∣hersed before, to wit, the Plonkets, Flemings, Barnwels, and Husseys, are the Darceys, Cusakes, Dillons, Birminghams, De la hides, Nettervils, Garvies, Cadels, and others: whom if I doe not name at all, or if I reckon either these or others elsewhere not in their owne ranke, according to their worth and degree, I desire no imputation may be laid upon me therefore.

THE COUNTY OF WEST-MEATH.

THe county of WEST-METH, so called in respect of the other a∣bovesaid, [ C] unto which it adjoineth on the West side, reacheth un∣to the river Shanon, and lieth betweene the Kings County South, and Longford County North; unto which it is not willing to give place either in fertilitie of soile, multitude of inhabitants, or any thing else whatsoever, unlesse haply it bee inferiour in civility of manners.* 1.160 Molingar by authority of Parliament was ordained to be the head and principall shire towne, because it lieth, as it were, in the very midst: and the whole country is laid forth into twelve Hundreds or Baronies, viz. Fertulogh, where the Tirels,* 1.161 Ferbille, where the Darcies dwell; Delvin which adorneth the old [ D] noble stock of the Nogents (who came first out of England) with the title of a Parlia∣ment Baron. These are descended from that Sir Gilbert Nogent, whom Hugh Lacy the Conquerer of Meth, for his courageous and valiant service in the wars of Ireland, rewarded both with these lands and those also of Furry, as that most learned Gentle∣man Richard Stanihurst hath recorded: Fourry aforesaid, as also Corkery, where the Nogents dwell;* 1.162 Moyassell, where the Tuts and Nogents; Maghertiernan, where very many of the Petits and the Tuts; Moigoysy, where the Tuts and Nangles; Rathcomire, where the Daltons; Magirquirk, where the Dillons, all propagated from English blood do inhabite; Clonlolan, where the O-Malaghlins, of the old roiall line of Meth; Moycassell, where the Magohigans, meere Irish beare sway: and others whose very [ E] names carry an harsh found of more barbarousnesse: which notwithstanding, even as Martiall the Poet when hee had reckoned up certaine barbarous Spanish names of places, being himselfe a Spaniard, said, That he liked them better than British names, so the Irish love these rather than the English: in so much as one of their Potentates gave it out, that he would in no wise learne the English tongue, for feare he should in speaking English get a wry mouth. Thus the crow thinkes her owne birds fairest; and we all are given to like our owne too well, even with the disdaine and contempt of others.

* 1.163This Meth had in times past Kings, or pety Princes rather to rule it. And, as we read, that Monarch or sole King of Ireland, Slany, caused the revenues of Meth to bee as∣signed [ F] and appropriat to the furnishing of his royall table. But when the Englishmen had once set fast footing in Ireland, Hugh Lacy subdued a great part thereof, and King Henry the second enfeoffed him in it, and made him Lord of Meth, who while he was building of a castle at Derwarth▪ and holding his head downe to prescribe a Carpen∣ter somewhat that he would have done, had by him his head stricken off with his axe.

[ A] This Hugh begat two sonnes, Hugh Earle of Ulster, of whom I will speake hereafter: and Walter Lord of Trim, who begat Gilbert that died before his father. By the daughters of this Gilbert,* 1.164 Margaret and Maud, the one part by the Genevils, who were (as they write) of the house of Lorrain; and by the Mortimers, came to the Dukes of York, and so to the Kings domain or Crowne: for Peter de Genevile, sonne to that Maud, begat Ioan espoused to Roger Mortimer Earle of March: and the other part by Margaret wife to John Lord Verdon,* 1.165 and by his heires who were Constables of Ireland, was devolved at length upon divers families in England, as Furnivall, Burghersh, Crophul, &c.

[ B]

THE COUNTY OF LONGFORD.

UNto West Meath on the North side joyneth the County of LONG∣FORD (reduced into this ranke of Countries a few yeeres since by the provident policy of Sir Henry Sidney Lord Deputy) called before time Anale,* 1.166 inhabited by a numerous Sept of the O-Pharols: of which house there be two great men and Potentates; one ruleth in the South part,* 1.167 named O-Pharoll Boy, that is, The yellow: the other in the North, called O-Pha∣roll Ban, that is, The white. And very few Englishmen are there among them, and [ C] those planted there but of late.

Along the side of this County passeth Shannon, the noblest river of all Ireland, which as I have said runneth between Meth and Conaught.* 1.168 Ptolomee nameth it SE∣NUS, Orosius SENA, and some copies SACANA, Giraldus Flumen Senense: but the people dwelling there by call it Shanon, that is, as some expound it, The ancient river. He springeth out of Thern hils in the county Le Trim, and forthwith cutting through the lands Southward, one while overfloweth the bankes, and enlargeth himselfe in∣to open Pooles: and other whiles drawes backe againe into narrow straights, and af∣ter he hath run abroad into one or two Lakes, gathering himselfe within his bankes, valeth bonnet to MACOLICUM,* 1.169 now called MALC (as the most learned Geogra∣pher [ D] Gerard Mercator hath observed) whereof Ptolomee hath made mention; and then by and by is entertained by another broad Mere (they call it Lough Regith) the name and situation whereof doth after a sort imply,* 1.170 that the City RIGIA, which Ptolomee placeth there, stood not farre from hence. But when hee hath once gotten beyond this Poole, and draweth himselfe to a narrower channell within the bankes, there standeth hard upon him the towne Athlon, of which I will write in place con∣venient.

From thence Shannon having gotten over the Water-fall at Killolo (whereof I must speake anon) being now able to beare the biggest ships that are, in a divided channell, as it were with two armes claspeth about the city Limirick, whereof I have [ E] spoken already. From hence Shannon passing on directly for threescore miles or thereabout in length, bearing a great bredth, and making many an Iland by the way, speedeth himselfe Westward; and in what place soever he becommeth shallow and affordeth fords at an ebbe or low water, there were planted little forts with wards (such was the carefull providence of our forefathers) to restraine the inrodes of prey∣taking robbers. And so at length he runneth and voideth out at an huge mouth into the West Ocean beyond Knoc Patric,* 1.171 that is, Patricks hill: for so Necham termeth that place in these his verses of Shannon.

Fluminibus magnis laetatur Hibernia, Sineus Inter Connatiam, Momomiamque fluit. [ F] Transit per muros Limirici, Knoc Patric illum Oceani clausum sub ditione videt. Ireland takes joy in rivers great, and Shannon them among, Betwixt Connaught and Munster both holds on his course along, He runneth hard by Limrick wayes: Knoc Patric then at last Within the gulfe of th' Ocean doth see him lodged fast.

CONNACHTIA, OR CONAGHT. [ A]

THe fourth part of Ireland, which beareth Westward, closed in with the river Shannon, the out-let of the Lake or Lough Erne, which some call Trovis, others Bana, and with the maine Western sea, is named by Giraldus Cambrensis Conachtia and Conacia, in English Conaght, and in Irish Conaughty. In ancient times, as we may see in Ptolomee, it was in∣habited by the GANGANI,* 1.172 who are also named CONCANI, AUTERI and NAG∣NATAE. Those CONCANI or GANGANI, like as the LUCENI their next neigh∣bours [ B] that came from the Lucensii in Spaine, may seeme by the affinity of name and also by the vicinity of place to have beene derived from the CONCANI in Spaine, who in Strabo are according to the diversity of reading named CONIACI and CONISCI: whom Silius testifieth in these verses following to have beene at the first Scythians, and to have usually drunke horses blood (a thing even of later daies nothing strange among the wild Irish.)

Et qui Massagetem monstrans feritate parentem, Cornipedis fusa satiaris Concane vena. And Concane though in savagenesse that now resembling still [ C] Thy parents old the Massagets, of horse-blood drinkst thy ••••ll.

And beside him Horace,

Et letum equino sanguine Concanum. And Concaine, who thinks it so good To make his drinke of horses blood.

Unlesse a man would suppose this Irish name Conaughty to be compounded of CON∣CANI and NAGNATAE. Well, this Province as it is in some place fresh and fruit∣full, so by reason of certaine moist places, yet covered over with grasse, which of their softnesse they usually tearme Boghes, like as all the Iland besides every where [ D] is dangerous, and thicke set with many and those very shady woods. As for the sea coast, lying commodious as it doth with many baies, creekes, and navigable rivers, after a sort it inviteth and provoketh inhabitants to navigation: but the sweetnesse of inbred idlenesse doth so hang upon their lazie limbes, that they had rather get their living from doore to doore, than by their honest labours keepe themselves from beggery. Conaught is at this day divided into these counties, Twomond or Clare, Galway, Maio, Slego, Letrim, and Roscoman.

The ancient CONCANI abovesaid, held in old time the more Southerly part of this Conaught, where now lye Twomond or Clare, the county Galway, Clan-Richards country, and the Barony of Atterith. [ E]

TWOMOND, OR THE COUN∣TIE CLARE.

TWomon or Twomond, which Giraldus calleth Thuetmonia, the Irish Two∣woun, that is, The North-Mounster (which although it lye beyond the ri∣ver Shannon yet was counted in times past part of Mounster, untill Sir Henry Sidney Lord Deputy laid it unto Conaught) shooteth out into the sea with a very great Promontory growing by little and little thin and narrow. On the East and South sides it is so enclosed with the winding course of the [ F] river Shannon, which waxeth bigger and bigger, like as on the West part with the open maine sea, and on the North side confineth so close upon the county Galway, that there is no comming unto it by land, but through the Clan-Ricards territory. This is a country wherein a man would wish for nothing more, either from sea or soile, were but the industry of the inhabitants correspondent to the rest; which

[ A] industry Sir Robert Muscegros an English Nobleman, Richard Clare and Thomas Clare, younger brethren of the stock of the Earles of Glocester (unto whom King Ed∣ward the first had granted this country) stirred up long since by building townes and castles, and by alluring them to the fellowship of a civill conversation; of whose name the chiefe towne Clare, now the dwelling place of the Earle of Twomond, tooke de∣nomination, as also the whole tract, of it called the county of Clare. The places of greater note and name than the rest,* 1.173 are Kilfennerag and Killaloe or Laon, the Bishops seat. This in the Roman Provinciall is tearmed Episcopatus Ladensis, where there stands a rocke in the mid channell of the river Shannon,* 1.174 from which the water rush∣eth [ B] downe a maine with a great fall and noise, and by standing thus in the way as a bar, hindreth the river that it can carry vessels no further; which if it were cut down, or a draine made about it, the river were able to bring up vessels much higher, to the great commodity of all the neighbour inhabitants.

Not far from the banke of Shannon,* 1.175 is seated Bunraty, for which Sir Robert Musce∣gros obtained from King Henry the third the liber••ie of a Mercate and Faire, and when he had fortified it with a castle, gave it at length unto King Edward the first, who granted both this towne and the whole territory unto Richard Clare aforesaid. And seven miles from thence,* 1.176 appeareth Clare the principall towne, at a Creeke (flowing up out of Shannon) full of Islands: and these twaine are the onely mercate [ C] townes here, and those but small ones. Most of the English who were in times past brought hither to inhabite, are either rooted out, or become degenerate and growne Irish: but they who carry the whole sway here at this day, be of the Irish blood; as Mac-Nemors, Mac-Mahon, O-loughton, and the mightiest by far of all other, the O-Briens, descended from the ancient Potentates or Kings of Conaght, or as themselves give it forth,* 1.177 from the Monarchs of Ireland. Of these, Morogh O-Brien was the first Earle of Twomond, created by King Henry the eighth for terme of life; and after him to Donough his brothers sonne, and his heires; who at the same time being made Baron of Ibarcan, succeeded in the Earldome, and was slain by his brother Sir Donel: O-Brien Connagher, O-Brien Donaghs son, was the third Earle, and father to Donaugh [ D] now the fourth Earle, who hath shewed singular good proofe of his faithfull loialty and courageous valour unto his Prince and countrey in most dangerous times, to his singular commendation.

THE COUNTY OF GALLWAY.

THe county of GALLWAY meereth South upon Clare, West upon the Ocean, North upon the county Maio, and East upon the river Shannon. A land very thankefull unto the industrious husbandman, and no lesse profitable unto the Shepheard. The West shore endented in with small [ E] in-lets and out-lets, or armes of the sea, hath a border all along of greene Ilands and rugged rockes, set orderly, as it were, in a row: among which, foure Ilands called Arran,* 1.178 make a Barony, and many a foolish fable goes of them, as if they were the Ilands of the living, wherein none doe dye: also Inis Ceath, well knowne in times past by reason of the Monastery of Colman a devout Saint,* 1.179 founded for Scots and Englishmen: and Inis-Bouind, which Bede interpreteth out of the Scottish tongue to signifie, The Isle of white Heifers; whereas it is a meere British word. But the Englishmen soone forsooke the Monastery, when the Scots and they could not well agree together.* 1.180 Further within lieth a Lake, called Logh-Corbes (where Ptolomee placeth the river AUSOBA) spreading out twenty miles or thereabout in length, and [ F] three or foure in bredth, being navigable, and garnished with 300. petty Ilands full of grasse, and bearing Pine-trees; which Lake when it reacheth neere the sea, grow∣ing narrow into a river,* 1.181 runneth under Gallway, in the Irish tongue Galliue; named so (or else I cannot tell) of the Gallaeci in Spaine, the very principall city of this Pro∣vince, and which would thinke hardly to be reckoned the third in Ireland. Surely a very proper and faire City it is, built almost round, and in manner tower-like, of en∣try,

and some stone, and hath beside to set it out a Bishops See: and withall, through [ A] the benefit of the haven and rode abovesaid under it, being well frequented with merchants, hath easie and gainfull trafficke, by exchange of rich commodities both by sea and land.

* 1.182Not full foure miles from hence standeth Knoc-toe, that is, the hill of Axes; under which that noble Girald Fitz-Girald, Earle of Kildare, and by times, for the space of three and thirty yeeres Lord Deputie of Ireland, discomfited and put to flight, after a bloody overthrow, the greatest rabble of rebels that ever was seen before in Ireland, raised and gathered together by William Burk, O-Bren, Mac-Nomare, and O-Carrall. Not farre from hence Eastward standeth Aterith (in which remaine some footings [ B] of the name of AUTERI) commonly called Athenry,* 1.183 enclosed round about with a wall of great circuit, but slenderly inhabited. It glorieth much of that warlike Baron thereof,* 1.184 Iohn de Birmingham an Englishman; out of which family the Earle of Louth descended: but these Birminghams of Aterith, being now as it were degenerate into barbarous Irishry, scarce acknowledge themselves to have beene English originally. The septs or kinreds of the Irish here, that be of the better sort, are O Kelleis, O Mai∣den O Flairts, Mac Dervis, &c.

* 1.185Clan-Ricard, that is, The sonnes, kinred, or Tube of Richard, or the land of Richards sonnes, confineth upon these, and lieth to this county. The name it tooke, after the Irish manner, from one Richard of an English family, called de Burgh, that became af∣terwards [ C] of most high renowne and name in this tract, and out of which King Henry the eighth created Ulick Burgh Earle of Clan-Ricard, whose eldest sonne carrieth the title of Baron Dun-Kellin. His sonne Richard was the second Earle, whose children, begotten of sundry wives, stirred up many troubles, to the griefe of their father, the overthrow of their owne country, and themselves. After Richard, who died an old man, succeeded his sonne Ulick the third Earle, and father to Richard the fourth Earle now living, whose fast fidelity and singular fortitude hath, to his great praise, evident∣ly appeared, when the English, and their whole estates in Ireland, were in greatest danger.* 1.186 In this territory is the Archbishops See of Toam, unto which in old time ma∣ny Bishops were subject; but at this day the Bishopricks of Anagchony, Duae, and [ D] Maio are annexed unto it. The Bishoprick likewise of Kilmacough, which in the old Provinciall, unlesse the name be corrupt, is not mentioned, as also of Clonfert, are sea∣ted in this part, and, as I have heard, united to the See of Toam.

THE COUNTY OF MAIO.

THe county Maio, on which the Westerne Ocean beateth, lies bounded South with the county of Galway; East with the county Roscoman, and North with the county of Slego. A fertile country and a pleasant, abun∣dantly rich in cattell, Deere, Hawkes, and plenty of hony: taking the [ E] name of Maio,* 1.187 a little city with a Bishops See in it, which in the Roman Provinciall is called Mageo. But that Episcopall seat is now annexed to the Metropolitane of Toam, and the neighbour inhabitants repaire for Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction to the Bi∣shop of Killaley,* 1.188 in the Barony of Tir-Auley.

In this Maio, if I deceive not my selfe, Colman a Bishop of Ireland built, as Bede writeth, a Monastery for thirty men or thereabout of the English Nation, trained in the profession of the Monasticall life, whom he brought out of England into Ire∣land. But heare what Bede saith.* 1.189 Colman found a place in the Isle of Ireland, meet for building of a Monastery, named in the old Scottish tongue Magio. And he bought a part of it, which was not much, of the Earle, unto whose possession it belonged, to found a Mo∣nastery [ F] therein: but with this condition annexed unto the sale, that the Monks restant there should pray unto the Lord for him also that permitted them to have the place. Now when hee had straightwaies erected this Monastery, with the helpe of the said Earle and all the neighbour inhabitants, hee placed the Englishmen there, leaving the Scots behinde in the Isle Bouind. Which very Monastery is inhabited at this day by Englishmen: for

[ A] the same it is, which now of a small one grown to be great, is usually termed, In Mago. And having now this good while turned all to better orders, it conteineth a notable covent of Monkes, who being assembled there together out of the Province of England, according to the example of the reverend fathers, under Regularity and a Canonicall Abbat, live in great continency and sincerity with the labour of their owne hands.

About the yeere of our Lord 1115. this monasterie was re-edified, and flourished in King Johns time, who by his Patent confirmed many farmes and faire lands unto it. Neither verily is there any other place, that I can finde memorable, unlesse it be Logh-Mesk a good large and fishfull Lake,* 1.190 in two small Islands whereof stand [ B] sure forts, that belonged to the familie of Burke. This county is not so famous for the townes therein as the Inhabitants, who are either of the Irish race, as O-Mayles, Ioies and Mac-vadus; or of the Scotish out of the Islands Hebrides, and out of the sept of Donell,* 1.191 whereupon they bee called Clan-Donells, and Galloglasses, and as it were, doughty mercinary souldiors, who fight with two edged axes, and be armed with habergeons or coates of maile, procured in times past to come hither by the re∣bels, and endowed here with lands: or else of English blood, as the said Burkes, Ior∣dans, descended from one Iordan of Excester, Nangles of Castlough, Prendergest of Clan-Moris. But the most puissant be those Burkes, who after a sort are beholden both for their first beginning, and also for their glory unto William a younger bro∣ther [ C] of Walter de Burgo or Burk of Ulster. This William, highly renowned for his militarie prowesse, being led away prisoner into Scotland, and leaving his wife behind him for an hostage, when he was restored to his owne home, by his manhood recove∣red Conaught (out of which in his absence all the English had been expelled by Phelim O Conor) having slaine in the field the said Phelim O Conor, Mac Dermond, Tego and Kelly, and was himselfe at last, in revenge, killed by Cormac Mac-Dermond. His grandson Thomas, by his son Edmund sirnamed Albanach (because he was borne in Scotland) when he saw the goodly and rich inheritance of his owne familie, transla∣ted by a female unto Leonell Duke of Clarence, tooke it to the heart, and therefore raising a power of lewd lawlesse and desperate persons (who will be never wanting [ D] in Ireland nor else where) by force and wrong seized the Patrimony of the Earles of Ulster in this County into his owne hands, and after the name of that Grandfather of his, whose glorious fame and gracious authority was then fresh in remembrance, cal∣led himselfe Mac-William,* 1.192 that is, the sonne of William. And his posterity under that name and title usurped a tyrannie in these parts, raging upon themselves o∣ther whiles, with mutuall injuries, and oppressing the poore people a long time with extorting, pilling and spoyling: insomuch as they left scarce one village or house in the Country unrazed and unrifled. This powerfull violence of theirs Sir Richard Bingham principall Commissioner, or Governour of Conaght, a man resolute, severe and valiant, fit for such a fierce and fell Province, thought not to bee [ E] endured. For he well understood being prudent and politicke, that these injust op∣pressions, pollings and pillings were the principall causes of the rebellions, of barba∣rousnesse, and base beggery of Ireland, yea and that they drew the people away from their due obedience and allegeance to their Prince, so as that they would acknow∣ledge no other soveraigne than their owne Lords and Captaines: he therefore to establish (what hee might) the royall power and authority there, and to overthrow this tyrannicall government of this Mac-William and of others getting head, em∣ployed with all diligence his whole care and cogitations to the uttermost: and al∣beit he had from time to time many imputations, suggestions, and complaints eager∣ly urged upon him, both before Queene Elizabeth and also the Lord Deputy, yet [ F] proceeded hee in his purpose. Contrariwise, those of the family of Burke, their followers and dependants, that refused to obey the lawes, tooke armes and drew to band and side with them, the Septs of the Clan-Donells, Ioies and others, who distrusted themselves and their owne power; whom Bingham the Gover∣nour soone scattered: and having forced their forts, drave them into woods and lurking hooles, untill the Lord Deputy taking pittie of them, upon their hum∣ble

supplication, commanded by his Missives that they should bee received upon [ A] termes of peace. But they who by warre had troubled the peace, and knowing not how to lay downe warre for sweetnesse of peace, were no sooner relieved and raised as it were from death, but they tooke armes againe, entred afresh into actuall rebelli∣on, drave booties every where, and made foule uprores in all places, crying out, That they would set up their Mac-William, or else send for one out of Spaine: That they would not admit a Sheriffe, nor yeeld obedience to lawes. And herewith they closely procured the Scottish Ilanders from out of the Hebrides, to come over for to aide them, promi∣sing them faire lands and possessions: whereupon the Lord Deputy commanded the Governour to represse and bridle this their excessive and malapert insolence. He then [ B] immediately, when they rejected all equall and indifferent conditions offered unto them, assembled an army, and pursued them so hotly through the woods and forests, that after six or seven weeks being grievously hunger-bitten, they most humbly sub∣mitted themselves. At which very time the auxiliary forces of the Scots aforesaid, came seeking through desert by-waies, and untravelled out waies, as closely as they could, to come into the county of Maio: but the Governour with continuall journies affronted them by night and day so neere, and followed upon them so hard, that in the end he intercepted them at Ardnary, & valiantly giving the charge, put them to flight, after he had killed and drowned in the river Moin about three thousand of them. A happy victory this was, and of great consequence both for the present & future times: [ C] whereby the rebellion, together with the title of Mac-William, was extinguished. Do∣nell Gormy, and Alexander Carrough, the sons of Iames Mac-Conel, and those Ilanders who most of all had plagued Ireland were slaine. These occurrents have I briefly set down out of my Annales (impertinent though they be to my intended purpose) which for their worthinesse ought more at large to be penned by some Historiographer.

THE COUNTY OF SLEGO.

SOmewhat higher lieth the county of Slego, a plenteous and battle coun∣try for feeding and raising of cattell, wholly also coasting upon the sea. [ D] Betweene it and Ulster Northward runneth the river TROBIS, which Ptolomee calleth RAVIUS, as an out-let of the Lake Erne: it is severed from the neighbour counties, Le Trim and Roscoman, by the comberous Curlew hills; and the river Suc divideth it in twaine. In some place hereabout Ptolo∣mee setteth the city NAGNATA;* 1.193 but what city it was it passeth my wit to find out. He hath placed also the river LIBNIUS in this tract, which through the retchles∣nesse of the transcribers, I reduced even now from out of exile to Dublin his owne ci∣ty. But that place which Ptolomee here pointeth out, is now called THE BAY OF SLEGO, a rode full of harbours under Slego the principall place of this county: where standeth a castle, the seat at this day of the Sept of O-Conor, who of it take their ad∣dition [ E] of Slego, and fetch their pedegree, as they say themselves, from that Rotherick O-Conor Dun, who being a great man and of much puissance, bare himselfe as Mo∣narch of Ireland, what time as the English entred first into Ireland, & hardly yeelded himselfe unto King Henry the second, although in words he professed submission, and oftentimes raising tumults (as an author without name of that age writeth) used ever and anon to cry out and say, That these words following of Adrian the Pope, in his Patent or Charter made unto the King of England, were prejudiciall unto him: Enter you into that Iland,* 1.194 and execute whatsoever shall concerne the glory of God, and the salvation of that land: and let the people of the said land receive you and honour you as their Lord: untill such time as Pope Alexander the third by a new Bull or Charter [ F] of his, had confirmed in like manner unto the Kings of England their right to Ireland: for then became he more tractable, and condescended unto more equall conditions, as I shall shew anon. After these O Conors, the greatest men of name in this territory are O Don, O Haris, O Ghar, and Mac-Donagh.

[ A]

THE COUNTY OF LE-TRIM.

THe County of Slego Eastward is enclosed with Breany, the possession of the ancient family of O-Rorck, which drew their descent from Ro∣therick Monarch of Ireland, whom they by contraction (which they take pleasure in) terme Rorck, untill that Brien O Rorck, Lord of Brea∣ny and Minterolise, fed with vaine hopes by Pope Sixtus Quintus and the King of Spaine, had persidiously cast off his allegeance to Queene Elizabeth, and [ B] taken armes: who being streightwaies chased into Scotland, and sent backe into England, suffered for his inconsiderate rashnesse due punishment upon the gallowes, and his lands were adjudged to the Crown. This Breany, by Iohn Perot Lord Depu∣tie was made a county, and of the chiefe towne called Le-Trim, which riseth up throughout with hills, full of ranke grasse; yet not so, as that it should be altogether true which Solinus reporteth of Ireland: namely, that it is so full of forage, that unlesse cattell were kept other whiles from grasing, their fulnesse would endanger them. And so much cattell it feedeth, that within the little circuit which it hath, it may rec∣kon at one time above a hundred and twenty thousand head of beasts. In this stan∣deth Achonry Bishopricke, united now to the See of Elphin. And Shannon, the So∣veraigne [ C] of all rivers in Ireland, hath here his spring-head; which being one while narrower, and another while broader, with divers turning and winding reaches that he makes, washeth and watereth of either side, as I have said, many a country. The principall families be O Rorck, O Murreies, Mac Lochleims, Mac Glanchies, and Mac Granelles, all meere and stark Irish. Whereas Iohn Burgh, sonne to Richard the Earle of Clan-Ricards, was created by Queene Elizabeth Baron Le-Trim, who was after∣ward slaine by his envious concurrents, I cannot say whether he had that title of this Le-Trim, or of some other place in this kingdome.

THE COUNTY OF ROSCOMAN.

[ D]

UNder the county of Letrim Southward lieth ROSCOMAN, ordained to be a county by Henry Sidney Lord Deputy; lying out a good length, but narrow; closed up between the two rivers Suc Westward, and Sha∣non Eastward, and on the North side bounded with Curlew mountaines. A territory it is for the most part plaine, fruitfull, feeding many herds of cattell, and with meane husbandry and tillage yeeldeth plenty of corne. Where it beareth Northward,* 1.195 the steepe mountaines of Curlew perke up aloft, and those impassable untill by the carefull industry of George Bingham there was a way cut out: which Curlews not long since became more notorious, for the disastrous death of Sir Coni∣ers [ E] Clifford, and (by his default) for the slaughter with him of most valiant and expe∣rienced souldiers. In this county are reckoned foure Baronies. Under Curlew hills, by the river Shanon,* 1.196 the Baronie of Boyle first commeth in view: where was founded in times past a famous Abbey, in the yeere 1152. together with the Abbey of Beati∣tude, and Mac Dermot ruleth all there as Lord; then by the river Suc lieth the Baro∣nie Balin Tober,* 1.197 where O Conor Dun is of the greatest command: and upon it joineth Elphen an Episcopall See. Somewhat lower is Roscoman, the Baronie of O Conor Roo, that is, Conor the red, wherein is seated the chiefe towne of the whole countie, sensed in times past with a castle by Robert Ufford Lord Justice of Ireland; but all the houses are mean and thatched; and more Southward, Athlone the Baronie of the [ F] O Kellies, so named of the head towne, which hath a castle and ward in it; also a most beautifull bridge of hewen stone, which to the great terrour of seditious rebels, Queen Elizabeth in our memory appointing Henry Sidney Lord Deputy of Ireland overseer thereof, caused to be built, with a purpose to constitute in that place (as most fit of all others in Ireland to represse seditions) the seat of residence for the Lords Deputies: and thus much for the Counties of Conaght.

[ A]

LORDS OF CONAGHT.

AS for the Lords of Conaght, wee finde it recorded in the Irish histories, that Turlogh O Mor O Conor ruled absolutely in old time this coun∣trey, and divided it wholly betweene his two sonnes, Cahel and Brien. But at the Englishmens first arrivall into Ireland, Rothericke bare rule, who stiled himselfe Monarch of Ireland, yet being put in feare with the great preparation for the English warre hanging so neere over his head, he betooke himselfe into the protection of King Henry the second,* 1.198 without trying [ B] the hazzard of battell. But when as forthwith he brake his allegeance, and revolted, Miles Cogan was the first Englishman that gave the attempt upon Conaght, yet sped hee not in his enterprise. Howbeit that King of Conaght abovesaid, was driven to this exigent, as to acknowledge himselfe the King of Englands Liegeman, to serve him faithfully as his man, and to pay unto him yeerely of every tenth beast, one hide mer∣cateable, &c. And King John granted that the third part of Conaght should remaine unto him still, to bee held hereditarily for an hundred Markes. But William Fitz-A∣delme, whose posterity are called in Latin de Burgo, and Burke or Bourke in Irish, Ro∣bert Muscegros, Gilbert Clare Earle of Gloster, and William de Birmingham were the first English that fully subdued this country, and laboured to bring it to civill govern∣ment. [ C] And William Bourk and his lineall posterity, being called Lords of all Conaght, governed that province, together with Ulster, for a long time in great peace and tran∣quility, yea and raised thereout rich revenues, untill the onely daughter of William Burke, sole heire in grosse of Conaght and Ulster both, was matched in marriage with Leonell Duke of Clarence, King Edward the thirds sonne. But when as he abode for the most part in England, and the Mortimers his heires and successours looked but negligently to their patrimony and inheritance in Ireland, the Bourkes there allies, whom they had appointed as overseers of their lands, taking the advantage of their Lords absence, and presuming upon the troubles in England, despising the authority of lawes, entring into alliance with the Irish, and contracting marriage with them, [ D] seized upon all Conaght to their owne behoofe, and degenerating by little and little, have laid downe English civility, and taken up Irish behaviour. Whereof some, who fetched their pedegree from Richard Burke, were called Clan-Ricard; others, Mac William Oughter, that is, The upper; others, Mac William Eughter, that is, The lower; even as they who in the countie of Maio were of greatest power and authority, affe∣cted to be tearmed simply Mac-William, as being a name full of honour, glory, and au∣thority, because they descended from William de Burgo, or Burke, whom I mentioned erewhile: under countenance of which name, they for a long time tyrannized over the poore inhabitants with most grievous exactions.

[ E]

ULTONIA, OR ULSTER.

ALL the land beyond the mouth of the river Boyn, Meath, the County Longford, and the mouth of the river Ravie that stretcheth North∣ward, is counted the fifth part of Ireland, called in Latin Ultonia, and Ulidia, in English Ulster, in Irish Cui Guilly, that is, The Province Guilly, and of our Welsh Britans Ultw. Which Province was [ F] wholly inhabited in Ptolomees time by the VOLUNTII, DARNI, ROBOGDII, and ERDINI: A large country, bespred with many, and those very large loghes and lakes, shaded with many and thicke woods, in some places fruitfull, in others barren, howbeit fresh and green to see to in every place, and replenished with cattell. But as the countrey for want of manuring is growne to be

[ A] rough, so the naturall dispositions of the people, wanting civill discipline, are become most wild and barbarous. Yet to the end that they might be kept within the bounds of their duty, who were wont to breake in sunder all bands of equity, of honesty, and of duty, the hether part of it was in times past divided into three counties, Louth, Downe, and Antrim: and now the rest is laid out into seven new counties, that is to say, Cavon, Fermanagh, Monaghan, Armagh, Colran, Tir-Oen, and Donegall or Tir-Conell, by the provident care of Sir Iohn Perot L. Deputy:* 1.199 who being notable and worthy man, well acquainted with the humours and haughty spirits of the Province, foreseeing that no policy would serve better to appease the tumults of Ireland, than [ B] to reduce these parts of Ulster into order, and to keepe them downe; going thither in a dangerous and ticklish time, when the King of Spaine hovered and gaped both for Ireland and England; with his gravitie and authority, whiles by barring all wrongs, hee did cut off the causes and quarrells of warre, brought all the Poten∣tates or Captaines of Ulster to this passe, that willingly they suffered their Seignio∣ries to bee divided into Counties, and Sheriffes to bee appointed for the government thereof. But he being within a while after recalled home, and climbing still higher unto honours, the heavie displeasure and envie of some, whom hee was not able to counterpoise, and his owne lavish tongue together (for unadvisedly he had let flye somewhat against the Princes Majestie, which to impaire in word is a capitall mat∣ter) [ C] plunged him headlong ere he was aware upon his owne destruction, as I have declared elsewhere more amply.

THE COUNTIE OF LOUTH.

THe county of LOUTH,* 1.200 in ancient bookes written Luva and Luda, called in the Irish tongue Iriel or Uriel (if that be not rather a part of this territory) situate beyond Meth and the mouth of the river Boyn, turning full upon the Irish sea, runneth out with a shore much win∣ding into the North; the soile whereof is so full of forage and so [ D] fruitfull, that it soone answereth and recompenseth the husband mans toile and charges.

Neere unto Boynes mouth is seated Drogheda,* 1.201 or Droghda, in English Tredagh, a fine towne, well peopled and frequented, so called of the bridge, and divided by the river Boyne running through it. Unto which King Edward the second, for Theo∣bald Verdons sake, granted licence for a mercate and Faire; the Kings confirmed ma∣ny and great liberties,* 1.202 and among other a Mint. Neere unto this standeth Melli∣font Abbey founded by Donald a King of Uriel, and much praised by Saint Bernard: which Queene Elizabeth (when as the religious Monkes were before thrust out) gave unto Sir Edward More of Kent, for his good deserts both at home, and abroad [ E] in the warres.

Ardeth seven miles from hence is a dry in-land towne well knowne:* 1.203 and above it Dundalk, with a commodious haven, and in times past strongly walled; which Ed∣ward Brus, brother to the King of Scots, who had proclaimed himselfe King of Ire∣land, burnt: but hee within a while after was with eight thousand two hundred of his men slaine neere thereabout. And in our remembrance Shan O Neale laied siege unto it, but straightwaies hee was forced with shame enough to dislodge. Eight miles from hence standeth Carlingford,* 1.204 a port also of good request and re∣sort: neither be there, to my knowledge, any other places in this county worth the naming.

[ F] This Louth had for Earle Sir Iohn Birmingham an Englishman,* 1.205 whom in reward of his martiall valour, when hee had discomfited and in a pitcht field slaine that Ed∣ward Brus, who assuming the title of King of Ireland for a time, had made soule work with fire and sword in Ireland, King Edward the second advanced to the honour of Earle of Louth,* 1.206 to have unto him and his heires males, and withall, the dignity of Baron of Athenry, to him and his heires. But this honourable title, as it began, so it ended

in him; for he that in warre vanquished his enemies, was soone after in a tumult of [ A] rebellious people vanquished and slaine by his owne men in this territory, with ma∣ny other of his sirname, leaving no issue behinde him. But in our fathers remem∣brance King Henry the eighth honoured Sir Oliver Plonket with the title of Baron of Louth.* 1.207 There remaine in this county, the Verdons, Tates, Clintons, Bellews, Dowdals, Gernons, Hadsors, Wottons, Brandons, Mores, Warrens, Chamberlanes, and very many besides of English blood; and of the Irish the Mac-Mathons, &c.

THE COUNTY OF CAVON.

[ B]

THe county of CAVON lieth next unto Louth to the West, called in times past East Breanny,* 1.208 the habitation of the O-Reilyes, who vaunt themselves to have had their beginning of the Ridleys in England, whereas in their whole course and maner of life they be meere Irish.* 1.209 These O-Reileys not long since were of great power in horsemen: but to the end they might be that way lesse powerfull, Sir Henry Sidney in his policy divided their county into seven Baro∣nies; whereof the Lords out of that family should immediately hold the same by ser∣vice, in fee from the Crowne of England. They dwell scattering in piles and forts, not in towns. A Bishop they have of their own, and him a poore one, God he know∣eth, whose See is at Kilmore:* 1.210 and yet is not he so poore as those Irish Bishops were, [ C] who had no other rents and revenues than three milch kine, which the parishioners exchanged for others new milch when they went dry,* 1.211 according as Adam Bremensis from their owne relation, when they returned by Germany out of Italy, learned and put downe in writing.

THE COUNTY OF FERMANAGH.

BEyond Cavan West and North FERMANAGH presenteth it selfe, where sometimes the ERDINI dwelt, a country full of woods, and very boggish. In the midst whereof is that most famous and the greatest Meere of all Ireland,* 1.212 Logh Erne, stretching out 40. miles, bordred a∣bout [ D] with shady woods, and passing full of inhabited Ilands: whereof some containe an hundred, two hundred, and three hundred Acres of ground: ha∣ving besides such store of Pikes, Trouts, and Salmons, that the fishermen complain oftner of too great plenty of fishes, and of the breaking of their nets, than they doe for want of draught. This Lake spreadeth not from East to West (as it is de∣scribed in the common Maps) but as I have heard those say who have taken a long and good survey thereof,* 1.213 first at Bal-Tarbet, which is a little towne farthest North of any in this county of Cavon; it stretcheth from South to North foureteene miles in length, and foure in bredth. Anon it draweth in narrow, to the bignesse of a good river, for six miles; in the chanell whereof standeth Inis Killin, the principall castle in [ E] this tract, which in the yeere 1593. was defended by the rebels, and by Dowdall a most valiant Captaine won. Then turning Westward, it enlargeth it selfe most of all,* 1.214 twenty miles long, and ten broad, as far as to Belek: neere unto which is a great downefall of water, and as they terme it, that most renowned Salmons Leape. A common speech is currant among the inhabitants there by, that this Lake was once firme ground, passing well husbanded with tillage, and replenished with inhabi∣tants; but suddenly, for their abominable buggery committed with beasts, over∣flowne with waters, and turned into a Lake. The Almighty God (saith Giraldus) Crea∣tor of Nature, judged this land privie to so filthy acts against Nature, unworthy to hold not only the first inhabitants, but any others for the time to come. Howbeit this wicked∣nesse [ F] the Irish Annales lay upon certaine Ilanders out of the Hebrides, who being fled out of their owne Countrey lurked there. Among the Lords in this tract, Mac-Gwir was most noble and powerfull, untill he overthrew himselfe and his state in the late rebellion. And they that be of that Sept dwell on both sides, yet so as that those beyond the Lake are reckoned of Ulster, and they on this side of Conaght.

[ A]

THE COUNTY MONAGHAN.

ALong the Lough-Erne, on the East side, stretcheth out the Countie Mo∣naghan, mounting aloft with hills well attired with woods, but knowne by no towne at all (unlesse it be Monaghan, which imparted the name unto the whole country.) It is divided into five Baronies, & containeth Iriel, Dartre, Ferey, Loughty (which by authority of Parliament were for rebellion, given away from the Mac-Mahons) with the little territory Donemain, [ B] which Queen Elizabeth bestowed upon Walter D'Evereux Earle of Essex.

Those Mac-Mahons,* 1.215 that is, if we interpret it out of the Irish language, The Sons of Ursus, or the Beare, ruled here as tyrannicall Lords a long time, and derive their Genealogy from Walter Fitz-Urse,* 1.216 who imbrued his hands with the bloody murde∣ring of Thomas Archbishop of Canterbury. The most puissant of these, after the manner of that nation, tooke upon him to Lord it over the rest, and by way of excel∣lency was termed Mac-Mahon. About which preheminence, when as of late daies they of that Sept or Family were at most bitter debate, by way of hard words, open armes, foule practises, yea and close corruptions, Sir William Fitz-William the Lord Deputy came hither among them,* 1.217 and judicially convented Hugh-Roe, Mac-Mahon, [ C] whom he by his authority had set up in this Seigniory, and being upon his triall con∣demned of treason, caused him to be hanged: and to the end that he might suppresse for ever both the name and soveraignty of Mac-Mahon, he divided the territory be∣tweene the kinred of the said Hugh, and certaine Englishmen, to have and to hold after the English tenure, to them and theirs.

THE COUNTY ARMAGH.

ON the East side again lieth out in length the county of Armagh, so as that it is compassed as it were about with the river Neury by East, with the county [ D] of Louth by South, and with the Black-water by North. A County, as I have sundry times heard the Earle of Denshire Lord Lievtenant Generall say,* 1.218 that for a most rich and battle soile passeth all other parts of Ireland, insomuch as if any compost be laid upon it to make it more fruitfull, it scorneth and disdai∣neth, as one would say, the same, and becommeth barren. The first place in it that we meet with,* 1.219 is Fewes, a little territory belonging to Turlogh Mac-Henry, one of the family of O-Neale, thicke set with woods, and by reason of loughs and bogs unpassable.* 1.220 Then have you Orry, as scarce of woods, where dwelleth O-Hanlan, and the fort Mont-Norris,* 1.221 built by Charles Baron Mont-joy when he was Lord Deputy, and so named in honour of Sir Iohn Norris, under whom he had served first, and was [ E] trained in military discipline.* 1.222 Eight miles from hence, neere unto the river Kalin, Ar∣mach maketh a poore shew, albeit it is the Archiepiscopall See, and Metropolitane of the whole Iland. The Irish talke much, that it was so called of Queen Armacha: but in mine opinion it is the very same that Bede nameth Dearmach, and out of the Scot∣tish or Irish language interpreteth it, The field of Okes. But it was named Drumsai∣lich, before that Saint Patricke had built there a proper faire City,* 1.223 for site, forme, quantity, and compasse, modelled out, as hee saith, by the appointment and direction of Angels. That Patricke I say, who being a Britan borne, and Saint Martins sisters sonne, named at his Baptisme Sucat, was sold into Ireland, where he became Heard∣man to King Miluc, afterwards was named by Saint German, whose disciple hee [ F] was, Magonius, as a Nurse-Father, out of a British word: and by Pope Caelestine, Pa∣tricius, as a Father of the Citizens, and by him sent over to catechize Ireland in the Christian faith: which notwithstanding some had received there before, as wee may gather out of an old Synodall, wherein is urged the testimony of Patricke him∣selfe,* 1.224 against that tonsure or shaving of Priests which had beene used before his time in Ireland; whereby they were shaven onely on the fore part of the head,

and not on the Crowne. Which manner of shaving he seemeth by way of contempt [ A] to father upon a certaine Swineherd of King Lagerius the sonne of Nell: and the wri∣ters of that age cried out,* 1.225 that it was Simon Magus his shaving, and not S. Peters. In this place about the yeere of our salvation 610. Columbane built a most famous Mo∣nastery, out of which very many Monasteries afterwards were propagated by his disciples, both in Britain and in Ireland.* 1.226 Of this Armach S. Bernard thus writeth. In honour of S. Patrick the Apostle of Ireland, who here by his life time ruled, and after death rested; it is the Archiepiscopall seat and Metropolitan City of all Ireland, and of so venerable esti∣mation in old time, that not only Bishops and Priests, but Kings also and Princes in gene∣rall, were subject to the Metropolitane thereof in all obedience, and he alone governed them [ B] all. But through the divellish ambition of some mighty Potentates, there was taken up a very bad custome, that this holy See should be obtained and held in hereditary succession; neither suffered they any to be Bishops, but such as were of their owne Clan, Tribe, and Family. Neither prevailed this execrable succession a little, but continued this wicked manner for the space well neere of fifteen generations.

When in processe of time the Ecclesiasticall discipline in this Iland was growne loose, so as in townes and cities, there were translations and plurality of Bishops, according to the will and pleasure of the Metropolitane; for reformation of this abuse, Iohn Papyrio a Cardinall was sent hither from Pope Eugenius the fourth, as a namelesse writer then living wrote in these words. In the yeere of our Lord 1142. [ C] Iohn Papyrio, a Cardinall sent from Eugenius the fourth Bishop of Rome, together with Christian Bishop of Lismore Legate of all Ireland, came into Ireland. The same Christi∣an held a solemne Counsell in Mell, at which were present all the Bishops, Abbats, Kings, Dukes, and Elders of Ireland: By whose consent there were established foure Archbi∣shopricks, namely, of Armach, of Dublin, of Cassile, and Toam. Wherein sate and ruled at the same time, Gelasius, Gregorius, Donatus, and Edanus: and so the Cardinall, be∣stowing his blessing upon the Clergie, returned to Rome. For before that time, the Bi∣shops of Ireland were wont to be consecrated by the Archbishops of Canterbury, in regard of the Primacy which they had in Ireland. This did the Citizens of Dublin ac∣knowledge, when they sent Gregory elect Bishop of Dublin, unto Ralph Archbishop [ D] of Canterbury for to be consecrated, by these words, Antecessorum vestrorum Magi∣sterio, &c. that is, Unto the Magistracy of your Predecessors we willingly submitted our (Prelats) from which we remember that our Prelats have received their dignity Ecclesi∣asticall, &c. which appeareth for certain out of letters also bearing date of greater an∣tiquity, namely, of Murchertach King of Ireland, written unto Anselm Archbishop of Canterbury, for the ordaining and enstalling of the Bishops of Dublin and of Water∣ford: likewise of King Gothrich unto Lanfrank his predecessor, in the behalfe of one Patrick a Bishop: of Lanfrank also unto Therdeluac a King of Ireland, unto whom he complaineth, That the Irishmen forsake and leave at their pleasure their wedded wives, without any canonicall cause, and match with any others, even such as be neere of kinne, [ E] either to themselves or the said forsaken wives; and if another man with like wickednesse hath cast off any wife, her also rashly and hand over head they joine with, by law of marri∣age, or fornication rather: an abuse worthy to be punished. With which vices if this na∣tion had not bin corrupted even unto these daies of ours, both the right of lineall suc∣cession among them had been more certain, and as well the gentry as the communal∣ty had not embrued themselves so wickedly with the effusion of so much blood of their owne kinred, about their inheritances and legitimation, neither had they become so infamous in these respects among forraine nations. But these matters are exorbi∣tant of themselves, and from my purpose.

Long had not that Archiepiscopall dignity and Primacy beene established, when [ F] Vivian the Popes Legate confirmed the same againe; so that their opinion may seeme to be worthy of discredit and refutation, who affirme that the Archbishop of Armach had in regard of antiquity the priority and superiour place of the Arch∣bishop of Canterbury in the Generall or Oecumenicall Councells; whereas by the first institution hee is by many ages the latter. Neither according to the antiquitie

[ A] of places are the seats in Councels appointed. But all Prelates, of what degree soever they be,* 1.227 sit among their Colleagues, according to their owne ordination, enstalling, and promotion.

What time as that Vivian was Legate in Ireland, Sir Iohn Curcy subdued Armach, and made it subject to the English: and yet did he no harme then, but is reported to have beene very good and bountifull unto the Churchmen that served God there, and he re-edified their Church, which in our memory was fired and foulely defaced by the rebell Shan O Neale, and the city withall, so that they lost all the ancient beauty and glory, and nothing remaineth at this day but very few small watled cot∣tages, [ B] with the ruinous walls of the Monastery, Priory, and Primates palace. Among the Archbishops of this place, there goes the greatest fame and name of S. Malachy, the first that prohibited Priests marriage in Ireland, a man in his time learned and de∣vout, and who tooke no lesse of the native barbarousnesse of that country, than sea fi∣shes saltnesse of the seas, as saith S. Bernard, who wrote his life at large: also Richard Fitz-Ralfe, commonly called Armachanus, is of famous memory, who turned the edge of his stile about the yeere 1355. against the mendicant Friers, as detesting in Christians such voluntary begging. Neere to Armach, upon a rising hill, remain the reliques of an old castle (Owen-Maugh they call it) which was, as they say, the anci∣ent habitation of the Kings of Ulster. More East glideth the Black-water (in the Irish [ C] tongue More, that is, Great) which is the limit betweene this shire and Tir-Oen, whereof I am to speak in due place. In this country and about it Mac-Genis, O Han∣lan, O Hagan, and many of the sept of O-Neal, assuming unto them sundry additions and by-names, carry all the sway after a sort, and over-rule the rest.

THE COUNTY OF DOWNE.

EAstward now followeth the county of DOWNE, and that very large and fertile in soile, stretched out even as farre as to the Irish sea, rea∣ching on the North side to the Lake Eaugh, by a new name called Logh [ D] Sidney, and on the South to the county of Louth, from which the ri∣ver Newry severeth it. Upon this river, in the very first entrance into this shire, within our remembrance Sir Nicolas Bagnall Mareschall of Ireland, who by his conduct atchieved here divers exploits, and reduced the country to more civi∣lity, built and fortified a towne of the same name. Hard by it, the river called Ban∣thelesse, issuing out of the desert mountaines of Mourne, passeth through the coun∣try of Eaugh, which belongeth to the family of Mac Gynnis: Betweene whom and the O Neals, who tyrannized in Ulster, there fell in times past a controversie, whether they were vassals to O Neal, and whether they should find their followers and soul∣diers victuals, &c. (this kind of service they call Bonoghty.) This hath unto it an Epi∣scopall [ E] See at Dromore, above which at the edge of Logh Eaugh, are the tracts of Kilwlto and Kilwarny, much encombred with woods and bogges. These lye inward∣ly: but by the maritime coast the sea doth so wind it selfe in, and with sundry Creeks and Bayes encroach within the land, yea and the Logh and Lake dilateth it selfe be∣side Dyffrin, a valley full of woods, the inheritance in old time of the Mandevils, af∣terwards of the Whites, in such sort that it maketh two bilands; Lecall Southward, and Ardes Northward. Lecall, a rich and battle ground, beareth out farthest into the East of any part of Ireland, and is the utmost Promontory or cape thereof, which the Mariners now terme Saint Iohns Foreland, Ptolomee calleth it ISANIUM,* 1.228 perhaps of the British word Isa, which signifieth Lowest. In the very streight whereof flou∣rished [ F] DUNUM,* 1.229 whereof Ptolomee also made mention (though not in the right place) now named Down, a towne of very great antiquity, and a Bishops See, renowned by the tombe of Saint Patricke, Saint Brigid, and Saint Columb, upon which was writ∣ten this rude riming distichon:

Hi tres in Duno tumulo tumulantur in uno, Brigida, Patricius, atque Columba pius.

At Doun these three lie buried in one tombe, [ A] Brigid, Patricke, and that devout Columb.

Which monument of theirs, as the bruit runneth, was demolished by the Lord Leonard Grey, Deputy under King Henrie the eighth: and sure it is, that when he was arraigned for misgoverning, and condemned therefore to death, among other im∣putations he was charged, that he had profaned this Cathedrall Church of Saint Pa∣tricke. * 1.230 But as touching the Sepulcher of Saint Patricke, the religious Priests were at variance, like as the Cities of Greece in times past strove about the native country of the Poet Homer: These of Downe challenge it to themselves, and that upon the [ B] authoritie of the verses aforesaid: Those of Armagh put in their claime out of the words of Saint Bernard, which erewhile I alledged: The Monkes of Glastenbury in England averred it to be with them, and that out of the old Records and Evidences of their Abbey: and some Scots have likewise avouched, that as he was borne neere unto Glasco, so likewise he was enterred there at Kirk-Patrick. Into this Down, Sir Iohn Curcy, that Martiall Englishman, and (for a Warrior) extraordinarily devout to Godward, after hee had brought this country in subjection unto him, was the first that brought in the Benedictine Monkes: and he translated the Monasterie of Ca∣riche, which Mac Neal, Mac Eulef King of Ulster had founded in Erinaich neere unto S. Finins Fountaine, into the Isle called after his name Ynis-Curcy, and endowed the same with lands assigned for it. For before time the Monkes of Ireland, as those of [ C] ancient times in Egypt, whose maner and order that devour man Congell, that is by interpretation, A faire pledge, brought over into Ireland, being wholly given to prayer, earned for themselves and the poore their living, with the labour of their own hands. Howbeit, these Monasticall orders and customes (as all humane things) con∣tinued not long, when their maners and carriage grew to be worse, and riches had by little and little polluted piety, which as a mother, had formerly bred them. Robert Abbat of Molisime in Burgundie studied and endevoured earnestly in times past to reduce and set on foot againe the said ancient Discipline:* 1.231 and perswaded his owne Disciples to live with their handy labour, to leave Tithes and Oblations unto the Priests [ D] that served in the Diocesse, to forbeare wearing of Breeches made of woven cloth, or of leather. But they labouring to the contrary, refused flatly to goe from the customes obser∣ved in the Monasteries of the West parts of the world, which were knowne for certaine, to have been instituted and ordained by Saint Maure scholar to Saint Benet, and by Saint Columban. But I have digressed too farre, now will I returne againe. By the sea-side stand Arglas, where Saint Patrick, by report, founded a Church: and Strangford, called in old time Strandford, a safe harbour, where the river Coyn with a great and violent streame breaketh into the Sea. Neere unto which, in the Biland Lecale, Queene Mary in her great bounty unto Noblemen liberally gave lands unto the Earle of Kildare. And here, of the English race the Russells, Audleys, Whites, and [ E] the Bagnells who came thither last, stoutly defend, among the wild and fierce Irish, not without danger, what they and their ancestours won in these parts.

Ardes, the other Biland called The Andes, lieth over against to the North, seve∣red with a small chanell out of the Logh-Coin, which on the West side encloseth it, like as the sea on the East side, and the Bay of Knoc-Fergus on the North. You may resemble it to the bent of the arme, which by a very narrow Isthim or necke of land groweth to the rest of the Iland, like as an arme to the shoulder. The soile is every where passing good and bountifull, but only in the mids, where lieth out for twelve miles or thereabout in length, a moist, flat, and boggy plaine. The shore is sufficient∣ly bespred with small villages, and in times past had a most renowned Monasterie [ F] at the Bay of Knoc-Fergus, of the same institution, order, and name, as was that right ancient and famous Abbey in England neere unto Chester,* 1.232 I meane, Banchor. Out of whether of these twaine that Arch-hereticke Pelagius came, it is uncertaine, whiles some will needs have him to spring from hence, others from that in Britaine: but neither of them grounding upon any certaine warrant of authority. Howbeit, cer∣taine

[ A] it is that he was of Britaine, as may appeare by other testimonies, as also by this distichon of Prosper Aquitanus,* 1.233 inveying against his impiety.

I procul insana impieta••, artesque malignas Aufer, & authorem comitare exclusa Britannum. Avaunt far hence impiety, and lewd Arts take with thee, Once gone, with British sire of thine keep alwaies company.

But touching this place, heare what S. Bernard saith:* 1.234 A rich and mighty man gave [ B] a place called B anchor unto Malachy, to build, or rather to re-edifie there a Monastery. It had been ywis a most noble house before time, under the first founder and father Congel, breeding many thousand Monkes, and the head likewise of many Monasteries. A holy place in truth, and a breeder of many Saints, most plenteously fructifying unto God: so that one of the sons of that holy congregation, named Luan, is reported to have been the founder of an hundred Monasteries. Which I have beene more willing to relate, that by this one the reader may give a ghesse what a mighty multitude there was beside. Thus at length the sprouts thereof replenished Ireland and Scotland. From out of which S. Colum∣bane comming up to these parts of ours here in France, built the Monastery of Luxovium, which grew to a mighty multitude. And so great an Abbey by report this was, that the so∣lemnity [ C] of divine service held out continually in one quire after another: so that there was not one moment of time, night or day, without singing praises. Take all this to be spoken of the ancient glory of Banchor Monastery. Malachia both in regard of the noble name that it bare, and of the ancient dignity, especially liked this place, although it was destroi∣ed; as minding to replant it, like unto a certain garden or Paradise; as also because many bodies of Saints slept there. For, to say nothing of those that were buried in peace, it is re∣ported that 900. in one day were slaine by Pirats. Verily the possessions belonging to that place were great: But Malachias contenting himselfe only with the site of the holy place, surrendred the possessions and lands wholly to another: for from the time that the Mo∣nastery was destroied, there wanted not one to hold it with the livings thereto belonging: [ D] For they were ordained by election also, and called Abbats, keeping still in name, thought it were not so in deed, as it had been in old time. And when many gave advice not to alienate the possessions, but to retaine the whole together unto themselves, this professor of poverty agreed not thereto, but caused, according to the custome, one to bee chosen for to hold the same, reserving onely to himselfe and his the place, as I have before said. Moreover, within a few dates there was the Oratory or Church finished, of timber peeces made smooth but fitly and firmely knit together (a Scottish kind of work faire and beautifull enough.) Afterwards Malachy thought it good to have a Church built of stone, proportioned like to those which he had seene built in other countries. And when hee had begun to lay the foundation, the native inhabitants of the countrey began to make a wonder thereat, be∣cause [ E] there were not found in that land as yet such maner of buildings: and thereupon one cried out, O good Sir, what meane you to bring in this new fashion into our countries? Scots we are and not French. What vanity is this? what need was there of such worke, so superfluous, so proud, and so glorious?

More inward,* 1.235 hard by the Lake is the Bishops See of Conereth or Coner, where sat the said Malachy as Bishop. But what manner of flock this so holy a Pastor fed, listen unto S. Bernard. Malachy in the thirtieth yeere almost of his age, was brought in and presented a consecrated Bishop of Conereth, for this was the cities name. Now when as he began to execute his function according to his office, then perceived this man of God, that it was his lot to come not unto men, but unto beasts. No where had he to that time experi∣ence [ F] of such, in the most barbarous parts that ever he came unto: No where had he found for manners so froward, for rites so divellish, for faith so impious, for lawes so barbarous, for discipline so stiffe necked, and for life so filthy. Christians they were in name, and Pa∣gans in deed. Tithes and first fruits they gave none, lawfull marriage they contracted none, confessions they made none, to crave or to give pennance there could be found just none: And Ministers of the Altar there were very few or none: But what needs many

words? where the very paucity and fewnesse among the lay Persons, was in maner idle and [ A] imploied about nothing, no fruit was to be expected by their duties and functions among so leud a people. For in the Churches there was heard neither voice of Preacher nor sound of singing. What should the Lords champion doe in this case? either hee must yeeld with shame, or bicker in jeopardy. But he who acknowledged himselfe to be a Shepherd, and not an hireling, chose rather to stand to it than to flye, ready to give his life for his sheep if it so behoved. And albeit they were all wolves and no sheepe, in the midst of wolves he stood as a fearlesse Shepherd, by all meanes casting about how to make of wolves sheepe. Thus wrote Saint Bernard; and little better can he that is Bishop there at this day say, as I heare, of his wilde flocke hereabout. [ B]

* 1.236 This Ardes, the Savages, an English family in times past held in possession: a∣mongst whom there goeth a great name of him, who said no lesse stoutly than plea∣santly, when he was moved to build a castle for his defence, That he would not trust to a castle of stones, but rather to a castle of bones, meaning thereby his owne bodie. Af∣terward the O-Neals wrested it out of their hands: who being attainted of high treason, by permission of Queene Elizabeth, Sir Thomas Smith Knight, and the Queenes Secretary planted a Colonie there not long since: a worthy adventure, but it sped unhappily. For after great expences defraied, the Irish by a traine caught his base sonne, whom hee had made Captaine and ruler thereof, and cruelly cast him to hungry dogges: for which barbarous cruelty, those most wicked wretches [ C] suffered afterward most grievous punishment accordingly, being killed and given unto Wolves to bee devoured. Above Ardes Westward the more Southerne Clan-boy,* 1.237 that is, the Yellow Nation or Sept, or the kinred of Hugh the Yellow, a country very full of woods, reacheth as farre as to the bay of Knock-fergus, inhabi∣ted by the Sept of the O-Neales, and is counted the farthest territorie of this county of Downe.

THE COUNTY OF ANTRIM.

THE next County in order unto Louth Northward, is that of AN∣TRIM, [ D] so called of Antrim a base townelet of small reckoning at all, had it not imparted the name unto the whole countrey, which lieth betweene the Bay of Knoc-Fergus, Logh Eaugh, and the river Ban. This Bay of Knoc-Fergus which Ptolomee tearmeth VINDERIUS,* 1.238 took name of a towne situ∣ate upon it, which the English call Knoc-Fergus, the Irish Carig-Fergus, that is, the Rock of Fergus, of that most renowned Fergus, who first brought the Scottish out of Ireland into Britaine, there drowned. This is well inhabited and more frequented than the rest in this coast, by reason of the commodious haven, although the block∣houses thereto be unfinished, having a fortresse pitched upon an high rocke, a ward of garrison souldiers to keepe the countrey in awe and good order, with an ancient [ E] palace converted now into Magazin.* 1.239 Hard by it lieth the Nether Clane-Boy, which also was the habitation of O-Neales, notable for the death of that most lend rebell, Shan or Iohn O-Neal, who after many robberies and sacriledges committed, being in one or two skirmishes under the leading of Sir Henry Sidney Lord Deputy, vanqui∣shed and weakened, was brought to that exigent, that hee was resolved to goe unto the Deputy with an halter about his neck and submissely to crave pardon: but being perswaded by his Scribe to seeke first for aide of certaine Scots of the Islands, who under the conduct of Alexander Oge had encamped themselves here, and preyed in the countrey, hee came unto them, who gave him friendly entertainment, and pre∣sently massacred him and all his company in revenge of their kinsfolke whom hee [ F] had before slaine. By whose death the warre being ended, and himselfe with all those that went with him into the field attainted, Queene Elizabeth granted this Claneboy unto Walter D' Eureux Earle of Essex, who crossed over the seas hither, and, I wot not, whether under a goodly colour of honour (for chosen he was Gover∣nour of Ulster and Mareschal of Ireland) hee was by the politicke practice of some

[ A] Courtiers finely packed away into a Country alwaies rebellious and untamed. But whiles with the expence of a mighty masse of money hee went about to reduce it to good order, after hee had beene crossed and tossed with many troubles both at home and abroad in the warres, hee was by untimely death taken out of this world, leaving unto all good men a wonderfull misse of himselfe, and this Country unto the O-Neales and Brian Carragh, of the Mac-Conells race, who since that time have gone together by the eares, and committed many murders one upon another, about the soveraignty of this Seigniory.

Neere unto Knoc-Fergus there is a By-land,* 1.240 with a narrow necke (as it were) an∣nexed [ B] to the maine, which notwithstanding is called the Isle of Magie, taking up foure miles in length and one in bredth: wherein, as some suppose, flourished that Monasterie of Magio so highly praised by Bede: whereof I have made mention be∣fore in the County of Majo.

Then the Glinnes,* 1.241 that is, the Valleys, begin at Older-Fleet, a bad road for ships, and run out a great length upon the sea.* 1.242 This country belonged in ancient times to the Bissets Noblemen of Scotland, who when upon private grudges and quarrels they had made away Patricke Earle of Athol, were banished hither, and through the beneficiall favour of Henry the Third King of England, received Lands here. For John Bisset, who died in the beginning of Edward the First his reigne, had [ C] large possessions heere, and under King Edward the Second, Hugh Bisset for re∣bellion lost some of them. But in our fathers daies, the Highland Irish Scots, out of Cantire and the Hebrides, under the leading of James Mac-Conell Lord of Cantire in Scotland, made an entry upon the same, and he laying claime thereto challenged it as descended from the Bissets. Howbeit Shan O-Neale having slaine their Cap∣taine easily chased them away. Yet returned they, and in this tract committed con∣tinually robberies and outrages in cruell manner, yea and maintained seditious com∣motions, untill that even of late Sir John Perot Lord Deputy of Ireland brought first Donell Goran (who together with his brother Alexander was slaine by S^r. Richard Bingham in Conaght) and afterward Agnus Mac-Conel,* 1.243 the sonnes of James [ D] Mac-Conel, to that passe, that they betooke themselves to the Queene of Englands protection, and upon their humble suite received at her hands this county to bee held of her by service under certaine conditions, namely, to beare armes within Ire∣land under none other but the Kings of England, and to pay yeerely a certain number of cowes and hawkes, &c.

Above this,* 1.244 as farre as to the river Bann, all the tract is called Rowte, the seat of the Mac-Guillies, a familie of good reputation in their county: which, notwithstanding the violence of the Islander Scots, and their continuall depredations, hath driven them into a narrow corner. For, Surley Boy, that is, Charles the Yellow, brother unto James Mac-Conel, who possessed himselfe of the Glines, became also in some sort [ E] Lord hereof;* 1.245 untill that Sir John Perot Lord Deputy, having won Donluse Castle, a very strong pile, seated upon a rocke that hangeth over the sea, and severed from the Land with a deepe ditch, dispossessed him and all his. Which for all that, hee re∣covered the next yeere following by treason, after he had slaine Carie the Captaine thereof, who manfully defended himselfe. But the Lord Deputy sending against him Captaine Meriman an approved warrior, who slew the two sonnes of James Mac-Conell, and Alexander this Surley Boys son, so coursed him from place to place, and drave away his cattell the onely riches he had (for hee was able to number of his owne stocke 50000. cowes) so that Surley Boy rendred Donluse, came to Dublin, and in the Cathedrall Church openly made his submission, exhibited a supplication cra∣ving [ F] mercy, and afterwards being admitted into the Lord Deputies Great Cham∣ber, so soone as he saw the Picture of Queene Elizabeth upon a table, once or twice flung away his sword, fell downe at her feet, and devoted himselfe unto her Majesty. Whereupon being received into favour, and ranged among the subjects of Ireland, he abjured and renounced openly in the Courts of Chancery and Kings Bench all service and allegeance to any forraine Kings whatsoever: and he had given unto

him by the bounteous liberality of Queene Elizabeth, foure territories (Toughes [ A] they call them) lying from the river Boys unto the Bay, Don severig, Loghill, and Balla-monyn, with the Constableship of Donluse Castle, to him and the heires males of his body, to hold of the Kings of England, with these conditions, That neither hee nor his, nor yet his posterity serve in the warres under any forraine Prince without Licence; That they keepe their people from all depredations; That they furnish and finde twelve horsemen, and fortie footmen, at their owne charges for fortie daies in time of warre; and present unto the Kings of England a certaine number of cowes and hawkes yeerely, &c.

THE COUNTIE OF [ B] COLRAN.

BEyond the Glynnes West, standeth Krine, which now they call the county COLRAN, of the principall towne therein. It lieth between the river Ban and Lough-foile, and confineth South upon the county of Tir-Oen.* 1.246 This Ban, a passing faire river, as Giraldus saith (which the name also witnesseth) rising out of the mountaines of Mourn in the county of Downe, carrieth himselfe and his name into Lough E∣augh, [ C] or Lough-Sidney, a large Lake: which name for all that, after thirty miles or thereabout (for of so great length that Lake is esteemed to be) at his going forth in the end he resumeth againe at Tome castle, and being beset and shadowed along the sides with woods,* 1.247 by Glancolkein, where by reason of thick woods, and unpassable bogges there is the safest place of refuge for the Scottish Ilanders and the rebels (and which the English felt, who pursued Surley Boy whiles hee lurked here) carrying a proud streame,* 1.248 entreth into the sea, breeding Salmons in abundance above any other river in all Europe: because, as some think, it passeth all the rest for cleerenesse, in the which kinde of water Salmons take speciall delight.* 1.249 In this part the O Cahans were of grea∣test authoritie; the principall person of which family O Cahan is thought to be one [ D] of the greatest of those Potentates,* 1.250 or Uraights as they terme them, that ought ser∣vice unto O Neal the Tyrant of Ulster: as who in that barbarous election of O Neal, which with as barbarous ceremonies is solemnized in the open aire upon an high hill, performeth this honourable service forsooth, as to fling a shooe over the head of the elected O Neal. Howbeit he is not of power sufficient to restrain the Scottish Ilan∣ders, who to save charges at home,* 1.251 every yeere in Summer time flocke hither out of those hungry and barren Ilands (where is nothing but beggery) to get their living; ready upon every occasion and opportunity to maintain rebellions; insomuch as pro∣vided it hath been by law, under paine of high treason, that no person call them into Ireland, nor give them lodging or entertainment. [ E]

But this county with other confining is escheated to the King, who gratiously purposing a civill plantation of those unreformed and waste parts, is pleased to distri∣bute the said lands to his civill subjects, and the city of London hath undertaken to plant Colonies here.

THE COUNTIE OF TIR-OEN.

BEneath Colran lieth Southward the county of TIR-OEN, in old books [ F] named also Tir-Eogain, that is, if a man interpret it, The land of Eugenius, which name the Irish have contracted into Eogain and Oen. This is alto∣gether upland from the sea, divided towards the sunnes setting by the ri∣ver Liffer from Tir-Conell, toward the rising with the Logh Eaugh from the county of Antrim, and Southward with the Blackwater, which in Irish they call Aven More,

[ A] that is, The great water, from the county of Armagh. A country though rough and rugged, yet fruitfull and very large, as which lieth out threescore miles in length, and thirty in bredth: divided by the mountaines called Sliew Gallen, into the Upper Tir-Oen Northward,* 1.252 and the Nether Southward.

In it are first Cloghar,* 1.253 a Bishopricke, and that a slender one; then Dunganon, the chiefe habitation of the Earles; which through the favour of King Henry the eighth gave the title of Baron unto Matthew sonne to the first Earle of Tir-Oen. And verily this is an house fairer built than commonly they bee in this county, but hath beene oftentimes by the Lords themselves defaced with fire, because it should not be burnt [ B] by the enemy: also Ublogahell, where O-Neal that most proudly ruleth and oppres∣seth Ulster was wont to be inaugurated after that barbarous manner and tradition of the countrey:* 1.254 and the fort at Black-water on the river More, which hath sustained the variable changes and chances of warre, whiles there was no other way into this countrey, being the place of refuge for the rebels: but now it is neglect, ever since there was found another Ford more below, at which on both sides of the river Charles Lord Mount-joy Deputy erected new Sconces, when with hot warre hee pursued the rebels in these parts. Who likewise at the same time raised another garri∣son fort, called by his owne name Mont-joy, at the Lake Eaugh (Logh Sidney in ho∣nour of Henry Sidney souldiers now terme it) which encloseth the West side of this [ C] shire, and is made, or much encreased by the river Bann, as I have said. Surely this is a goodly and beautifull Lake, passing fishfull, and very large, as stretching out thir∣ty miles or thereabout, as the Poet saith.

—Dulci mentitur N••rea fluctu. Fresh water though it bee, A sea folke thinke they see.

And considering the variety of shew upon the bankes, the shady groves, the mea∣dowes alwaies greene, the fertile corne fields, if they be well manured; the bending [ D] and hanging hills, and the rills running into it, fashioned and shaped for pleasure and profit even by Nature her selfe, who seemeth as it were to be very angry with the in∣habitants there by, for suffering all to grow wild and barbarous through their lazie lithernesse. In the upper Tir-Oen stands Straban, a Castle well knowne, wherein dwelt in our daies Turlogh Leinigh of the sept of O-Neals, who after the death of Shan O-Neal, as I shall shew anon, by election of the people attained to the dignity of O-Neal: also some other Piles and fortresses of smaller reckoning, the which (like as else where in this Iland) be no more but towers with narrow loope-holes rather than windowes, unto which adjoine Hauls made of turfes, and roofed over head with thatch, having unto them belonging large Courts or yards fensed round about with [ E] ditches and hedges of rough bushes for defence of their cattell against Cow-stealers. But if this county have any name or glory at all, it is wholly from the Lords thereof, who have ruled here as Kings, or Tyrants rather: of whom there were two Earles of Tir-Oen, namely, Con O-Neale, and Hugh his nephew by his son Matthew. But of these I will speake more at large by and by, when I am to treat of the Earles and Lords of Ulster.

THE COUNTIE OF DONEGALL OR TIR-CONELL.

[ F]

ALL that remaineth now behind in Ulster toward the North and South, was possessed in ancient times by the ROBOGDII and VENNICNII: but at this day it is called the County of DONEGALL or TIR-CONELL, that is, as some interpret it, The land of Cornelius, or as o∣thers, The Land of Conall, and in truth, Marianus plainly nameth it,

Conallea. The county is all in a maner champian and full of havens, as bounded with [ A] the sea on the North and West sides beating upon it, and dis-joined on the East from Tir-Oen with the river Liffer, and from Conaght with the Lake Erne. Liffer neere un∣to his spring head, enlargeth his stream, and spreadeth abroad into a Lake, wherein ap∣peareth above the water an Island, and in it hard by a little Monastery, a very nar∣row vault within the ground, much spoken of by reason of I wot not what fearefull walking spirits, and dreadfull apparitions, or rather some religious horrour: which cave, as some dreame ridiculously, was digged by Ulysses when hee went downe to parley with those in hell.

The inhabitants terme it in these daies Ellan u' Frugadory, that is, The Isle of Pur∣gatory, [ B] * 1.255 and Saint Patricks Purgatory. For some persons devoutly credulous, affirme that Patrick the Irishmens Apostle, or else some Abbat of the same name, obtained by most earnest praier at the hands of God, that the punishments and torments which the godlesse are to suffer after this life, might here bee presented to the eye: that so he might more easily root out the sinnes which stucke so fast to his Countrimen the Irish; and withall their heathenish errours. But seeing that this place is named in Saint Patricks life,* 1.256 Reglis, I would deeme it to be the other REGIA, that Ptolomee mentioneth: and the very situation of it in the Geographer implieth no lesse. Besides this Patrickes Purgatory, there was another Purgatorie also of Sir Brendan in this Island; but since I could not finde out the place, take here with you that only which I found, namely, Nechams Tetrastichon of it. [ C]

Asserit esse locum solennis fama dicatum Brendano, quo lux lucida saepe micat. Purgandas animas datur hic transire per ignes, Ut dignae facie Iudicis esse queant. If common fame say true, a place of Brendan taking name There is, and often times cleere lights doe shine within the same. The soules have licence here to passe through Purgatory fire, That worthily before that Judge, they may at length appeare.

[ D]

Where this river Liffer augmented by other waters comming unto it, approach∣eth neerer to the sea, it spreadeth out againe into a Lake, which Ptolomee called LO∣GIA, and now they usually terme it Logh Foile and Logh Der, whereupon Necham hath these verses.

Logh Der aquis dives Lacus est, Ultonia novit, Commodus indigenis utilitate placet. Logh Der a Lake in waters rich, this Ulster knoweth well, Commodious, and pleasing much those that about it dwell.

[ E]

* 1.257Hard by this, there flourished sometime Derry a Monasterie and Episcopall See; where in the yeere 1566. Edward Randolph, renowned for his long service in the warres, spent his life in the behalfe of his countrey to his everlasting fame, and gave Shan O-Neal (who had then assembled and armed all the power he could possibly a∣gainst the English) such an overthrow, as that he could never after recover the losse he then sustained. But now of late Sir Henry Docwra knight, who in the warres of Ireland quit him so well, that with great praise he hath approved his singular valour and martiall skill, brought hither first a garison, and afterward planted here a Co∣lony, to bridle the Earle of Tir-Oens insolent pride: and established and settled the same with so good orders, that it both standeth in good steed for helpe against the [ F] rebells,* 1.258 and also traineth the barbarous people to their duties. The ROBOGDII placed above LOGIA held all that Northren sea coast of Ireland, where O Dog∣herty an obscure Potentate had great sway. Amongst these, Robogh a little Episco∣pall towne retaineth the expresse footings of the old name Robogdii. * 1.259Which should be that promontory ROBOGDIUM, unlesse it be Faire Foreland, I know not From

[ A] hence the utmost shores all rockie bend backe againe by the mouth of Swilly Lake, which Ptolomee seemeth to call ARGITA.

Beyond these more Westward were the VENNICNII seated,* 1.260 where Mac Rwyn Faid, Mac Swyn Netoeth, and Mac Swyn Bannigh have great lands and large possessi∣ons. Among these Ptolomee placeth the river VIDUA,* 1.261 which now is called Crodagh, and the Promontory VENNICNIUM, which they now call Rams-head, and the Fore∣land BORAEUM, now S. Helens head.

Upon the shore as it twineth backe from hence Southerly, Calebeg affordeth an Haven and commodious harbour for sailers: then appeare the ruins and rubbish of [ B] Sligah Castle,* 1.262 which Maurice Fitz-Girald Lord Justice of Ireland built about the yeere 1242. when he had made himselfe Lord of this country. But Iohn Fitz-Girald the first Earle of Kildare was dispossessed of this castle and a goodly inheritance in this tract, fined also in a great sum of money, for that hee had raised a civill and dange∣rous war against the Earle of Ulster.

Lower yet,* 1.263 and not far from the mouth of Logh Earne, Donegal, that is, the towne of the Gallicians of Spaine, with an Abby sheweth it selfe, whence this county when it was made a county tooke the name.

There have beene rulers over this territory for these many ages they of the house of O-Donel, and those extracted from the same stock that the family of O-Neals, nei∣ther [ C] had they any other title than O-Donel,* 1.264 and Lords of Tir-Conell. For the getting of which title, and that they might be by a certaine election of the people inaugura∣ted with their due complements at a stone beside Kilmacrenan, they were at deadly discord, and committed outrages one upon another, untill that King James not long since by his honourable Letters Patents conferred the honour, title, and stile of Earle Tir-Conell upon Rory O-Donell, the brother of that Hugh the rebell, who being fled out of his countrey died in Spaine; and this Rory his successour practising new trea∣son against King James his advancer, upon the terrour of a guilty conscience fled the realme in the yeere 1607. and died at Rome.

The ancient inhabitants of this Ulster, like as the rest of all Ireland throughout, [ D] were by one name in times past cleped SCOTI,* 1.265 and from hence carried they over with them the name of Scots into the North parts of Britain. For as Giraldus writeth, about the yeere of salvation foure hundred, six sons of Mured King of Ulster seized upon the North parts of Britain, whereupon it was by a speciall and peculiar name called SCO∣TIA. And yet it appeareth by the Scottish Annales that this happened long before. Also Ferguse the second, who re-established the kingdome of Scots in Britain, came from hence,* 1.266 unto whom Patrick had prophesied by way of divination or Soothsay∣ing, in these words: Although thou seemest at this day base and contemptible in the eies of thy brethren, thou shalt shortly be the Prince and Lord of them all. And to avow the credit and authority of this prediction, the said writer addeth moreover and saith: [ E] No long space of time after this, Fergus, according to the Holy mans prophesie, obtained the soveraignty in all that land, and his seed reigned for many generations together. From his stemme proceeded that most valerous King Edan, the sonne of Gabran, who subdued Scotland that is called Albanach, whose posterity in lineall descent and succession reign∣eth there still.

The first Englishman that in the reigne of King Henry the second attempted this countrey was Sir Iohn Curcy,* 1.267 who having by force won Downe and Armach, either by dint of sword conquered, or by surrender gat the whole into his owne hands, and was the first that was stiled Earle of Ulster: but when his great exploits and fortunate archievements had wrought him such envie, that through his owne vertues and o∣ther [ F] mens vices he was banished out of the Realme, Hugh Lacy, the second sonne of Hugh Lacy Lord of Meth, who had commandement to pursue him by force and armes, was by King John appointed his successour, being created Earle of Ulster, by the sword,* 1.268 of which honour notwithstanding the same King afterward deprived him for his tumultuous insolency: and hee was in the end received into favour againe. But for the sounder testimony hereof, it were good to exemplifie the same word

for word out of the records of Ireland. Hugh de Lacy sometime Earle of Ulster, held all [ A] Ulster (exempt and separate from all other counties whatsoever) of the Kings of England in chiefe by service of three Knights so often as the Kings service was proclaimed: and be held all Pleas in his owne Court, that pertaine to a Iustice and Sheriffe, and held a Court of Chancery of his own, &c. And afterward all Ulster came into the hands of our Soveraigne Lord K. Iohn, by the forfeiture of the foresaid Hugh: unto whom after that K. Henry the third demised it for terme of the said Hughs life. And when Hugh was de∣ceased, Walter de Burgo did that service unto Lord Edward K. Henries son, Lord of Ire∣land before he was King. And the same Lord Edward feoffed the aforesaid Walter in the said land of Ulster, to have and to hold unto the same Walter and to his heires, by the ser∣vice [ B] aforesaid, as freely and wholly as the above named Hugh de Lacy held it, excepting the advowsons of Cathedrall Churches and the demesne of the same, also the Pleas of the Crowne, to wit, Rape, Forstall, Firing, and Treasure Trouve, which our sove∣raigne Lord K. Edward retained to himselfe and his heires. This Walter de Burgo, who was Lord of Conaght, and Earle of Ulster, begat of the only daughter of Hugh de La∣cy, Richard Earle of Ulster, who after hee had endured many troubles and calamities died in the yeere 1326. Richard had issue Iohn de Burgo, who departed this life be∣fore his father, having begotten upon Elizabeth, sister and one of the heires of Gil∣bert Clare Earle of Glocester, William, who succeeded after his grandfather. This Wil∣liam being slain by his own men when he was young, left behind him a little daughter [ C] his only child,* 1.269 who being married unto Leonell Duke of Clarence bare one daughter likewise, the wife of Edmund Mortimer Earle of March, by whom the Earledome of Ulster and Seigniory of Conaght came unto the Mortimers, and from them together with the kingdome of England unto the house of Yorke: and afterward Edward the fourth King of England adjoined it unto the Kings Domaine or Crowne land.

And when as at the same time England was divided into sides and factions, whiles the civill warre grew hot, and the English that abode here returned out of Ulster into England to follow the factions, O-Neal and others of Irish blood seized these coun∣tries into their own hands, and brought them to such wildnesse and savage barbarisme, as it exceeded: In so much as this province which in times past paied a mighty masse [ D] of money unto their Earles, scarcely ever since yeelded any coin at all unto the Kings of England.

* 1.270And verily in no one thing whatsoever (pardon this my over-boldnesse) have the Kings of England beene more defective in piety and policie, than that they have for these so many ages seen so slightly to this Province, yea and to all Ireland, in the pro∣pagation of religion, establishing the weale publike, and reducing the life of the inha∣bitants to civility: whether it was for carelesse neglect, sparing, or a fore-cast of dammage, or some reason of state, I am not able to say. But that the same may be no longer thus neglected, it seemeth of it selfe by good right to importune most earnest∣ly, being an Iland so great, so neere a neigbour, so fruitfull in soile, so rich in pastures [ E] more than credible, beset with so many woods, enriched with so many mineralls (if they were searched) watered with so many rivers, environed with so many havens, lying so fit and commodious for failing into most wealthy countries, and thereby like to bee for impost and custome very profitable: and to conclude, breeding and rearing men so abundantly as it doth, who considering either their mindes or their bodies might be of singular emploiment for all duties and functions as well of warre as of peace, if they were wrought and conformed to orderly civility.

[ A]

I Intimated even now, that I would speak touching the O-Neals, who carri∣ed themselves as Lords of Ulster; and I promised not long since a friend of mine, that I would write of their rebellions raised in our age. And verily I will performe my promise to his Manes, whom whiles he lived I observed with all respect, and being now in heaven I will not forget. Thus much onely I will promise by way of Preface, that I have compendiously collected these matters out of my Annales, and here conjoined them, which there are severed and divi∣ded [ B] according to their severall times: and withall, that whatsoever I shall write, is not upon uncertaine rumours, but gathered summarily from out o•• their owne hand writings who managed those affaires, and were present in the actions: And this will I doe with so sincere an affection to the truth, and so uncorrupt fidelity, that I doubt not but I shall have thanks at their hands who love the truth, and desire to understand the late affaires of Ireland, and not in∣curre the blame of any, unlesse they be such as having done ill, take it not well if themselves be accordingly censured.

[ C]

THE O-NEALES, AND THEIR REBELLIONS IN OUR TIME.

[ D]

TO say nothing of that GREAT NEALE, who ruled by force and armes in Ulster, and a great part of Ireland, before the comming of Saint Patricke; nor of those in the middle times, who were but of meane note and memoriall to speake of; this family, after the arrivall of the English in Ireland, lay close and obscure in remote lurking corners, unlesse it were when Edward Brus brother to Robert King of Scotland, na∣med himselfe King of Ireland. For then in a troublesome time Dovenald O-Neale started and rowsed himselfe out of his lurking holes, and in [ E] his missives unto the Pope used this title in his stile,* 1.271 Dovenald O-Neale King of Ulster, and in right of inheritance the undoubted heire of all Ireland. But after these stirres and troubles were laid, this new King soone vanished away; and Dovenalds posterity pluckt in their hornes and hid their heads, untill that, whiles England was all in a combustion, kindled by the furious firebrands of civill warres betweene the houses of Yorke and Lancaster for the Imperiall Crowne, those English that served and li∣ved here, abandoning Ulster, and committing it to the keeping of the O-Neals, re∣turned home to follow the factions. For then Henry O-Neal, the sonne of Oen or Eugenius O-Neal, espoused the daughter of Thomas Earle of Kildare: and his son Con-More, that is, Con the great, married the daughter of Girald Earle of Kildare his [ F] mothers brother.

These supported by the powerfull authority of the Earles of Kildare (who verily for many yeeres were Deputies of Ireland) carried their heads aloft, tyrannizing cru∣elly upon the people, & transported with the insolent spirit of pride, disdained all the titles of Prince, Duke, Marquesse, and Earles, in comparison of the name of O-Neal. Con the sonne of Con, surnamed Bacco, because hee halted, succeeded his father in

the dignity of O-Neale, who cursed all his posterity, in case they either learned to [ A] speake English, or sowed wheat, or built houses: being sore affraid, left by these inducements the English might bee allured to enter againe into their Lands and pos∣sessions: often saying that language bred conversation, and consequenly their con∣fusion; that wheat gave sustenance with like effect: and by building they should doe but as the crow doth, make her nest, to be beaten out by the hawke.

When as the greatnesse of this Con O-Neale became very much suspected of King Henry the Eight, and the Kings power having now troden under foot the fa∣milie of Kildare, in whose rebellion O-Neale had engaged himselfe deepe, grew dreadfull to O-Neale also: into England he comes, and there renouncing the name [ B] of O-Neale, put his whole estate into the Kings hands: which within a while after was granted againe by letters Patent under the great seale of England, to hold as in fee, together with the title of the Earle of Tir-Oen, to him and to Matthew his false reputed sonne, and to the heires of their bodies lawfully begotten. And Matthew at the same time was created Baron of Dunganon. This Matthew being taken untill he was fifteene yeeres old for the sonne of a blacksmith in Dundalk, was by the said Smiths wife,* 1.272 whom Con had sometime kept as his concubine, tendred unto Con as his owne sonne, and hee accepting him for his owne sonne in deed, rejected John (Shan they call him) with the rest, whom he had begotten on his owne lawfull wife. Hereupon Shan, seeing a bastard preferred before him, so much made of, and [ C] highly honoured, suddenly set his heart wholly against his father, and withall burned in such hatred with most bitter malice against Matthew, that hee murdered him out of the way, and so plagued and vexed his father with injurious indignities, whiles he went about to deprive him of his Seigniorie, disseized him of his dwelling house, and stript him out of all he had, that the old man for very thought and griefe of heart pined away, and died. Straightwayes Shan being chosen, proclaimed and inau∣gured O-Neal, by an old shooe cast over his head, seized upon his fathers inheritance, and with all diligence sought after the sonnes of Matthew, that he might be secu∣red from them; but they were fled and gone. Howbeit Brian the eldest sonne not long after was slaine by Mac-Donel Totan one of the O-Neals race, suborned as [ D] some give it out, by Shan to doe that feat. Hugh and Cormack by the meanes and helpe of the English escaped, and yet remaine alive. Shan having thus gotten all into his owne hands (as hee was a man cruell and barbarous) began to exercise excessive cruelty over the great men of Ulster, and made his vaunt, that Mac-Gen∣nys, Mac-Guyr, Mac-Mahon, O Reali, O-Hanlon, O Cahan, Mac-Brien, O Hagan, O Quin, Mac-Canna, Mac-Carton, and all the Mac-Donels, the Galloglasses, were his subjects and vassels.

And when as Sir Henry Sidney Justice for the time being, in the absence of the Earle of Sussex Lord Deputy, expostulated with him about these points, he answe∣red, that hee, the undoubted and lawfull sonne and heire of Con O-Neale, as being [ E] borne of his lawfull wife, had entred upon his fathers inheritance: that Matthew was a Blacke-Smiths sonne of Dundalke, and by the said Smith begotten, and borne after his mariage with Alison his Wife, yet craftily obtruded upon Con as his son, there∣by to intervert another way, and to alienate the inheritance and honour of O-Neale: which howsoever he would endure, yet none besides of the Sept of O-Neals would ever beare and digest. As for the letters Patent of King Henry the eighth, they were of no validity, considering that Con had no right in that hee surrendred into the Kings hands, longer than his owne life: neither could he surrender up the same without the consent of the Nobles and people of Ulster by whom hee had beene elected O-Neale: Neither were such Patents of any force, unlesse there were an [ F] undoubted heire apparent of the family authentically signified before by inquisition and the oath of twelve men, which in this matter was never certified. Also, that himselfe was by law both of God and man the true heire, as being the first begotten sonne of his father, lawfully borne in wedlocke; that with the gene∣rall assent and consent of Peeres and people he was chosen, declared, and proclaimed

[ A] O-Neale according to the ancient law of Tanistry, whereby a man at his full yeeres is to be preferred before a boy, and an uncle before that nephew, whose grandfa∣ther survived the father: neither had he arrogated unto himselfe any authority over the Peeres or Nobles of Ulster, other than his ancesters (as hee was able to prove by plaine proofes produced) had exercised in times past out of minde most right∣fully.

Howbeit, soone after he outraged and overthrew O-Raily in the field, tooke Cal∣lagh O-Donell Lord of Tir-Conell prisoner, and cast him with his children into prison, carried away his wife, on whom hee begat children in adultery, seized upon his for∣tresses, [ B] lands, and goods, and bare himselfe as absolute King of all Ulster.

But so soone as Thomas Earle of Sussex the Lord Deputy came with a power in∣to the field for to abate this insolency of his,* 1.273 hee was strangely terrified, and by the perswasion of Girald Earle of Kildare, whom Queene Mary had restored to his for∣mer estate, came into England unto Queene Elizabeth, cast himselfe prostrate at her feet in all submissive and humble maner, and being received with all curtesie, after he had promised his allegeance, returned home, and for a while in his feeding and appa∣rell conformed himself to all kind of civility: he assailed the Scottish and drave them quite out of Ulster, slew Iames Mac-Conell their leader, kept himself and all his people in good order, and the poorer sort he carefully protected from wrongs: Howbeit he [ C] tyrannized most cruelly and insolently over the Nobility: who when they had cra∣ved aid of the L. Deputy for to represse his intolerable violence; he thereupon grow∣ing more outrageous, in furious maner with fire and sword drave Mac-Guir Lord of Fermanagh (who underhand had accused him) out of house and home, set fire upon the Metropolitane Church of Armach, and burnt it, yea and laied siege unto Dundalik on every side: but his enterprise was made frustrate through the valour of the souldiers there in garrison, and William Sarfield Maior of Dublin, who went forth a∣gainst him with the very floure of choice Citizens. Howbeit the neighbour Coun∣tries round about he harried and spoiled in all manner of hostility.

Then Sir Henry Sidney the Deputy,* 1.274 to restraine and bridle the boldnesse of the [ D] man, came himselfe in person with an army into the field against him, and by po∣liticke forecast sent before Edward Randolph,* 1.275 an old approved and renowned Co∣ronell, with seven ensignes of foot-men, and a cornet of horsemen, by sea into the North side of Ireland; who encamped at Derry by Logh-foil, that he might charge upon the backe of the Rebels. Which hee fearing, came thither speedily with all the power and forces that hee had, to remove him: But Randolph in a pitcht field gave him battell, and there manfully fighting, with honour lost his life in his Countries service, but gave him withall such an overthrow, that never after he was able to make head againe: and being elsewhere in light skirmishes foiled, and by little and little forsaken of his owne followers, hee was minded with an [ E] halter tyed about his necke humbly to beseech the Lord Deputy his protection and mercy. But being by his Secretarie perswaded first to try the friendship of the Scots, who under the conduct of Alexander Oge, that is, the younger, held their standing Summer Campe in Claneboy, having sent before hand Surley Boy A∣lexanders brother, whom hee had kept prisoner a long time, to prepare the way, hee came unto them with the wife of O-Donell whom hee kept, was kindely wel∣commed, and admitted with some few into a tent: where after they had beene in their cups, they brake out into a brawle about Iames Mac-Conell Alexanders bro∣ther, whom Shan had slaine, and also about the honesty of Iames his sister, whom Shan had married and cast off:* 1.276 by which time Alexander Oge, and his brother Mac-Gillaspic [ F] being hot set upon revenge, after a signall given, with their drawn swords set upon Shan, and with many a wound hacked and hewed him to death: whereby the Province recovered, after grievous oppressions and warre, the benefits of wished peace.

Within a while after a Parliament was holden at Dublin, where by the authority of all the States of the Realme there assembled, Shan was attainted, and all the

Seigniories, lands, and goods which hee and his followers had, were invested in [ A] Queene Elizabeth, her heires and successours. And a law was enacted, that from that day forward no man should assume unto him the name and title of O-Neale. And yet shortly after Turlogh Leinigh, a brothers sonne of Con-Mor O-Neale afore∣said, tooke it upon him by a popular election, being a man farre stept in yeeres, and therefore more calme and quiet, and so much the rather, because hee stood in feare of Shan O-Neals sonnes, and Hugh Baron of Dunganon, the sonne of Matthew, al∣though he had given unto the said Hugh his daughter in marriage; whom hee not∣withstanding quickly after did cast off and repudiate, taking another wife. This Turlogh being most obsequious and dutifull unto the Queene of England, put [ B] the English to no trouble at all; but hee molested O-Donell his neighbour and the Scots of the Ilands, and in an encounter slew Alexander Oge, who had killed Shan O-Neale.

* 1.277Hugh the sonne of Matthew, commonly called Baron of Dunganon, who had lived a long time one while concealed in his owne countrey, other whiles in England in the retinue of Noble men, began now to put himselfe forth, and to raise himself out of that obscure condition, when Elizabeth had given him command of a company of horsemen in the warre against the Earle of Desmond, then in rebellion, and assigned to him a pension of a thousand Markes by the yeere. In that warre hee acquitted himselfe valiantly in all places against the rebells; and at length exhibited a suppli∣cation [ C] in the Parliament house; That by vertue of letters patents, granted unto his Grandfather by King Henry the eighth, he might be admitted to the title and place of the Earle of Tir-Oen, and settled in his ancestours inheritance. The title and place of Earle of Tir-Oen was presently granted: but as touching the inheritance, conside∣ring that upon the forfaiture and attainture of Shan O-Neale the Kings of England were invested therein, the matter was referred unto Queene Elizabeth: who most bountifully granted the same to him, for his faithfull service performed, and to be per∣formed. Yet so, as that the country should be first surveied, and laied out into severall divisions, one or two places fit for garisons reserved, and namely, the fort at Blackwa∣ter, that good order might be taken for the maintenance of the sons of Shan and Tur∣logh, [ D] and that he should not be permitted to have any authority at all against the no∣blemen his neighbours without the county of Tir-Oen. These conditions he most willingly accepted, and rendred very great thanks, accordingly promising to perform whatsoever he was able, with diligence, authority, study, and endevour, in regard of so great benefits received: and verily he failed not in his promise, nor omitted any duty that might be expected from a most loiall subject. A body he had able to en∣dure travell, watching and fasting: his industry was singular, his courage in warre great, and answerable to the most important affaires: good skill he had in martiall feats, and a profound wit and deep reach to dissemble and carry his businesse closely: in so much as even then some there were who gave this prediction of him, That he [ E] was born either to the exceeding good, or as great hurt of Ireland. And such proofes he made of his valour and fidelity, that Turlogh Leinigh at the Queenes intercession resigned up unto him his government upon certaine conditions. After whose decease he usurped unto himselfe the title of O-Neal, which by law was a capitall crime; but excused himselfe colourably, because others should not enter upon the farre: and promised solemnely to renounce it quite, yet laboured hee most earnestly, that hee might not be urged thereunto by any oath.

* 1.278Not long after, when that most puissant Armada of Spaine, which had in vaine given the attempt upon England, was put to flight, many ships in their returne home∣ward were cast away and lost in the Vergivian sea, and many of the Spaniards [ F] after shipwracke were cast on shore; some of whom Tir-Oen is reported to have en∣tertained and lodged, yea and to have consulted and complotted with them about en∣tring into a secret confederacy with the King of Spaine. For which practice Hugh Ne Gaveloc, that is to say, Hugh in the fetters (sirnamed so because he had been kept so long in fetters) a base sonne of Shan O-Neal informed against him, and that upon

[ A] no light but pregnant presumptions: whom the Earle afterward intercepted, and commanded to bee strangled, but hardly could he finde any one, that for the re∣verent regard of the O-Neals blood, would lay hands upon him. For which barba∣rous and inhumane murdering of his cousin german, he was charged in England; but the Queene of her royall clemency, and for the hope that she had conceived of the Earle, craving with repentance forgivenesse of this fault, and submitting him∣selfe to divers good orders, for his obedience, pardoned him, to the great griefe of some good men. But this soone after more grieved him, yea pricked (as it were) and sore galled him, that the Deputy had suppressed the name of Mac Mahon in the [ B] country next adjoyning unto him; and withall to abate and weaken the power of that mighty family, had divided the country among many. He I say hereupon con∣ceived a feare, lest the same would befall unto him, and other Chieftanes of Ulster. At which very time, there began some secret grudges, and heart burnings to arise be∣tween the Earle and Sir Henrie Bagnall the Marshall, whose sister the Earle had car∣ried away and married. The Earle complained, that whatsoever he had with the losse of his blood and painfull travell reduced to the obedience of the Prince, the Marshall, and not he, reaped the fruit and gaine thereof: that the Marshall by subor∣ning most base and vile persons as witnesses, had falsely brought him into question for high treason, had incited Sir William Fitz-Williams, then Lord Deputy, his dead∣ly [ C] enemy, by corruptions and bribery to worke his destruction; and that he lay in waite to take away his life. And in very truth the Deputies information against the Earle found credit in the Court of England, untill the said Earle wrote his letters, and offred judicially to be tried either in England or in Ireland. This is for certain known, that much about this time, he together with the chiefery, or greatest men of Ulster, by secret parlees combined in an association, that they would defend the Romish religi∣on (for Religion now a daies is made the mantle for all rebellion) that they would in no wise admit Sheriffes or Garrison souldiers in their Territories, and mutually main∣tain one anothers right, yea and withstand all wrongs offered by the English. The first Champion thrust forward to sound the alarum, was Mac-Gwyr, a man of a turbulent [ D] spirit: he by way of preying all before him maketh a road into Conaght, accompa∣nied with Gauran a Priest, who being ordeined by the Pope Primate of Ireland, commanded him in the name, and with the helpe of God to try his fortune, and to fight the Lords battell, assuring him of most happy successe: yet fell it out otherwise; for Mac-Gwyr, through the valour of Sir Richard Bingham, was discomfited and put to flight, and the Primate with others slaine. Soone after, Mac-Gwyr brake out into open rebellion; whom the Earle himselfe (together with the Marshall) in a shew of du∣tifull attendance pursued; and in this service, with great commendation of his for∣wardnesse, was wounded in the thigh. Howbeit wholly intentive to provide for his own security, he intercepteth the sons of Shan O-Neale, and makes them sure for do∣ing [ E] any harme: neither would he by any meanes (being requested thereto) set them at liberty, but minding another matter, maketh most grievous complaints of the inju∣ries offered unto him by the Deputy, the Marshall, and the garrison souldiers: which notwithstanding, within a while after he carried so covertly, that as if he had forgot∣ten all quarels, he came under safe conduct unto the Deputy, submitted himselfe, and after hee had professed all manner of dutifull obedience, returned home with great commendation. When as now Sir William Fitz Williams, the Lord Deputy was re∣voked home out of Ireland, Sir William Russell succeeded in that office. Unto him repaired the Earle of his own accord, exhibited an humble submission, upon his knees to the Lord Deputy, wherein he dolefully expressed his great griefe that the Queen [ F] had conceived indignation against him, as of one undutifull and disloyall. Hee ac∣knowledged that the late absenting himselfe from the state was disagreable to his obedience; albeit it was occasioned by some hard measures of the late Lord Depu∣tie, as though he and the Marshall had combined for his destruction.

He acknowledged that the Queene advanced him to high title, and great livings, that she ever upheld him, and enabled him, that shee, who by grace had advanced

him, was able by her force to subvert him, and therefore if he were voide of grati∣tude, [ A] yet he could not be so voide of reason, as to worke his owne ruine. Further∣more, he made liberall promises that he would most willingly do whatsoever should be enjoyned him, (which hee also had promised in his letters sent unto the Lords of the Councell in England) and earnestly besought that he might be received into favour againe with the Queene, as before time, which he had lost, not by any desert of his owne, but through the forged informations and suggestions of his adversaries. At the same time, Bagnall the Marshall was present in the place, who exhibited arti∣cles against the Earle, and accused him, that hee had underhand suborned and sent Mac-Guir, with the Primate above named into Conaght, that hee had complotted se∣cretly [ B] with Mac-Guir, O-Donel and other conspirators, and had aided them by Cor∣mac-Mac-Baron the Earles brother, and Con the Earles base son, and some of his ser∣vants, in the wasting of Monaghan, and besieging of Inis-Kellin, and by means drawn away the Captaines of Kilulio and Kilwarny, from their loialty and obedience to the Queen. Hereupon it was seriously debated among the Councellors of the kingdome, whether the Earle should be staied to make his answer or no? The Deputy thought good that he should be detained. But when it was put to question generally, the more part, either upon a vaine feare, or forward inclination to favour the Earle, were instant to have him dismissed, & the matter to be put off unto a further day of hearing, pretending certaine waighty considerations, and that the Articles exhibited were [ C] without proofe or time. Thus the Deputie in a sort was forced to yeeld to the ex∣perience of the Councell, and the Earle was permitted to depart, and his accusers there present had no audience. Which troubled and disquieted the Queen not a little, considering that his wicked designements and acts were now apparent to every one, and the Queene her selfe had given warning afore hand, that he should be detained untill he had cleered himselfe of those imputations.

The Earle being now returned home, when he heard that a new supply of souldiers was comming out of England, and thirteene hundred besides of old servitors out of the Low-countries, who had served in little Britaine under Sir John Norris, and that the English entended now to possesse themselves of Balashanon and Belik, Castles up∣on [ D] the mouth of Logh-Earn, he being privie to himself of his own evill purposes, and carrying a guilty conscience, on a sudden assaileth the fort at Blackwater, by which the entry lay into Tir-Oen his owne country, and had it surrendred up unto him. And at the very same instant in maner, hee (wavering in his minde) with one breath (as it were) by his letters offereth unto the Earle of Kildare, his helpe against the wrongs done by the Deputy, and withall, promiseth the Earle of Ormond, & Sir Henry Wallop Treasurer of the kingdome,* 1.279 to continue firme in his allegeance, yea and beseecheth in his letters Sir John Norris appointed Lord Generall, that he might be more mildly dealt with, nor against his will be driven headlong upon the dangerous rockes of dis∣loialty. But these letters unto Norris Bagnall the Marshall intercepted, and (as the [ E] Earle complained afterward) suppressed, to his greatest prejudice and hurt. For im∣mediatly he and his confederates were proclaimed traitors, both in Irish and English, and pardon offered to all such as had been seduced by false perswasions to take their parts, & would now relinquish them and submit themselves to the Queen. At which time there were accounted to be with the Rebell in Ulster, about a thousand horse∣men, and 6280. footmen: and in Conaght 2300. who were all at the Earles command, very many of them trained souldiers: as who had been exercised in armes, ever since that Sir John Perot Lord Deputy had appointed to every Lord and Chieftain of Ul∣ster, a certain number to be exercised in their weapons, for to resist the Irish Scots of the Islands: or else had been employed in the warres of the Low-countries, whom [ F] he in no provident policie for the future time, had caused to be transported thither.

And verily the English forces were equivalent in numbers, which were com∣manded by Sir John Norris: for the Queene had selected him as a man of especiall trust and reputation, to be used martially in such journeyes as the Deputie himselfe in person could not undertake, in consideration that hee had performed divers

[ A] honourable services was now President of Mounster, and had formerly commanded the Britain companies, which were to serve principally in this action. Yet atchieved he no memorable exploit, by reason of private misconstruction, suspicious surmises, and dislikes conceived betweene him and the Deputy. Onely the time was spent in preying, truce-making, and frivolous parlies. And without doubt the martiall men on both sides were well content to have the war drawne out in length, and the Earle fed himselfe every day with hope of succour out of Spaine.

But among all these parlies, that was most memorable, which the two Commis∣sioners, Sir Henry Wallop Treasurer of that Realme, and Sir Robert Gardener chiefe [ B] Justice, most grave personages and of approved wisdome, had with the Earle of Tir-Oen and O-Donell: at which they and others of the rebels both laied open their grie∣vances, and exhibited also their petitions.

The Earle complained, that Sir Henry Bagnall the Mareschall had cunningly with∣drawne unto himselfe the fruit of his labours; that with lyes and indirect meanes and subtle fetches, he had thrust him out of the Queenes favour, and after a sort brought him into disgrace: that to his great hinderance and prejudice, he had intercepted his letters written unto the Lord Deputy, unto Norris, and others; and still detained and withheld from him his wives portion: and herewith he protested, that he never ne∣gotiated with forrain Princes, before he was proclaimed Traitour.

[ C] Now he exhibited his petitions in most humble manner, That hee and all his fol∣lowers might be pardoned for their crimes, That they might be restored to their for∣mer estates, That they might exercise freely their own religion (and yet that had been alwaies tolerated) That the Mareschall should pay unto him a thousand pounds of lawfull mony of England for the dowry of his wife now deceased, That no garrison souldiers, Sheriffe, or other officer should be appointed within his county and Earle∣dome, That the company of fifty horsemen which he had led, with the Queenes pay thereunto, might be restored unto him, and that those who had robbed and spoiled his people might be punished accordingly.

O-Donell for his part, when he had rehearsed his fathers and ancestours fidelity to [ D] the Kings of England, complained neverthelesse, that Captaine Boin was sent from Perot the Lord Deputy, with a band of souldiers into his Province, under a colour of teaching his people civility, who being kindly entertained by his father, and having certain townes assigned unto him, offered all maner of injurious indignity and rigour unto his father, and advanced a certaine bastard to the dignity of O-Donell: Also that the said Deputy by sending a Barke secretly intercepted him, thrust him (inno∣cent man) into prison, and there unjustly kept him in duresse, untill that by the Al∣mighties goodnesse he was delivered: Item that the Deputy Fitz Williams laid up fast in close prison for seven yeeres together Sir Owen O-Toole, the second man next to O-Donell in this tract, notwithstanding he was guiltlesse, and sent for upon promise [ E] of his safe conduct: and that he oppressed his neighbours in Fermanaugh with into∣lerable wrongs: neither could himselfe devise any other meanes for his owne safety and security, than to releeve his next neighbours thus vexed and molested. Hee like∣wise made the same request that the Earle did, and moreover demanded certaine fortresses and lands in the county of Slego, which he challenged to be his in∣heritance. Shan Mat Brian Mac Phelim O-Neal laid downe his complaints, That Walter Earle of Essex had wrongfully taken from him the Isle of Magy, and Sir Henry Bagnall the Barony of Maughery-Mourn, both of them his ancient inheri∣tance: That he was himselfe imprisoned, untill that by enforcement he had resigned his right unto Bagnall; beside other infinite injuries done unto him by the Garrison [ F] souldiers of Knoc-Fergus. Hugh Mac-Guir made a great matter of the insolent out∣rages committed by the Garrison souldiers next unto him, in driving away his cattell as booties, and withall that the Sheriffe who was sent into his Territories, had cut off the head of his next kinsman, and spurned it under foot.

Brian Mac-Hugh-Oge, Mac Mahon and Ever Mac-Couley came in with these their complaints, That over and above other wrongs Sir William Fitz Williams the Deputy

for great gifts and presents, had settled Hugh Roe in the dignity of Mac-Mahon: and [ A] soone after, for that with banner displaied after the manner of the country he deman∣ded a mulct or fine which hee had imposed, hanged him up, and granted his inheri∣tance unto strangers, thereby to extinguish the name of Mac-Mahon. In a word, they were petitioners every one severally for the same things that I have above re∣hersed. When some of these their demands were thought reasonable, and others againe to be referred unto the Queenes consideration; the Commissioners also on the other side proposed certaine Articles unto the Rebells, that they should lay downe their armes, disperse their forces, acknowledge submissively their disloyalties, admit Sheriffes in their governments, re-edifie the Forts they had defaced, suffer [ B] the garrisons to live without disturbance, make restitution of spoiles taken, confesse upon their oath how farre they have dealt with forrain Princes, and renounce all for∣raine aide, &c.

But these seemed so unreasonable to them in their conceit, being now growne in∣solent, that after agreement of a cessation from armes for a short time, they depar∣ted on all hands; whereas the Queene both then and afterwards, as well to spare the effusion of blood, as to save expence of money, was willing enough to condescend unto any conditions of peace, that might have stood with the honour of her Maje∣stie.

* 1.280The time of cessation once expired, Norris (unto whom alone by the Queenes [ C] commandement, the command of the military forces was conferred in the Deputies absence) marched with his armie against the Earle. Howbeit the Deputie joyned with him, and so with great terrour to the rebels, went forward as farre as Armach: so that the Earle leaving the fort at Blackwater, set fire upon the villages all round about, and the towne of Dungannon; yea and plucked downe a great part of his owne house there, who bewailing now his owne estate, as quite undone and past all reco∣very, he thought of nothing but how to hide his head: when as they had marched so farre, they stayed there for default of victuals; and having proclaimed the Earle trai∣tour within his owne territorie, and placed a garrison in the Church of Armach, re∣turned backe. In their returne, the Earle diligently attendeth and accosteth them a [ D] farre off (yet they strengthened the garrison at Monaghan) and when they were come neere unto Dundalke, the Deputy, according to the purport of her Majesties Com∣mission, rendred the prosecution of the warre unto Norris, and after many words passed too and fro betweene them, with all the complements of kindnesse and curte∣sie that might be, he retireth to Dublin, and providently looketh to the state of Lein∣ster, Conaght, and Mounster.

Norris staied in Ulster, but atchieved no exploit answerable to the expectation rai∣sed of so worthy a Warriour: whether it were upon emulation to the Deputy, or that Fortune altered and went backward (as who in the end is wont to crosse great Com∣manders) or in favour of the Earle, unto whom he was as forward in kind affection, as [ E] the Deputy was estranged from him. For Norris seemed to blame the Deputy in some measure, for that entertaining an hard opinion of the Earle, his resolution was to make no peace with him: for he in no wise would be otherwise perswaded, but that hee trifled out the time, and made delaies for the nonce, expecting aide and suc∣cour still out of Spaine: whereas Norris in the meane while more favourable to him, and credulous withall, had conceived very good hope to bring the Earle to conditi∣ons of peace: which hope he working under hand so fed and fomented still in Nor∣ris, as that he also presented unto him a fained submission, subscribed with his owne hand and signed, yea and humbly upon his knees craved pardon. Yet for all this in the meane time he dealt by his spying Agents and Curreours earnestly and secretly [ F] with the King of Spaine, what with writing, and what with praying to have aide from him; so farre forth, as that there were secretly sent one or two messengers from the Spaniards to the Rebels, with whom it was agreed, that in case the King of Spaine sent at the prefixed time a competent Armie, able to vanquish the English, they would joine their owne forces, and if in the meane time he furnished

[ A] them with munition and provision for warre, they would reject all conditions of peace whatsoever. To these covenants, O Rorke, Mac-William, and others set to their hands, but not the Earle himselfe, being providently cautelous, and yet no man doubts but his consent was thereto. And the letters which the King of Spaine wrote backe full of great promises, hee in outward shew of dutifull service, sent unto the Deputy, and withall relying himselfe upon assured hope of helpe from Spaine, star∣ted backe from that written submission aforesaid, and faithfull promise made to Norris: for which, Norris through his owne credulty thus deluded and engaged, taketh him up in hot and bitter termes, as if he had gulled him. But he knowing well [ B] enough how to temporize and serve the time, entreth againe into a parlie with Nor∣ris and Fenton the Secretary: and so by giving hostages, a peace such as it was (or ra∣ther covenants of agreement) was concluded: which soone after with the like levi∣tie as before, he brake; alledging for his reason and excuse, that he could not other∣wise thinke, but hee was deceitfully dealt with, because the Deputie and Norris a∣greed so badly; because also the Deputie was discontented with them that in his be∣halfe travelled with him about peace, as though the Deputie desired nothing but warre, considering that the troupes of horsemen were supplied out of England, the King of Spaines letter abovesaid detained, and the Mareschall his most heavie enemie, even then was returned with new commission out of England.

[ C] Hereupon therefore hee falleth to harrie and waste the countries confining, to burne townes and villages, to rouse and drive away booties: but within a while pricked with some remorse of conscience for such outrages committed, and hearing besides, that there was a peace like to be treated between England and Spaine, hee sued once againe for a parlie, and conditions of peace: it yrkes mee to run through all the cloakes of his dissimulation in particular. But to be short, when he was in any danger of the English, in semblance, countenance, and words from teeth outward he so masked himselfe under the vizard of submission, and pretended such repen∣tance for his former misdemeanors, that he shifted off and dallied with them still, un∣till they had forslipt the opportunitie of pursuing him, and untill of necessity the for∣ces [ D] were to be dissolved and withdrawn. Againe, such was the sloathfull negligence of the Captaines in Ireland, the thrifty sparing in England, the inbred lenitie of the Queene, who wished that these flames of rebellion (for warre it was not to be cal∣led) might be quenched without blood, that his faire words and pretences were be∣leeved, yea and hope otherwhiles was offered unto him of pardon, lest his peevish pervicacie should be more and more enkindled.

In the yeere 1597. when as by this time all Ulster throughout beyond Dundalke, except seven Castles with wards,* 1.281 (namely, Newry, Knoc-Fergus, Carlingford, Greene Castle, Armach, Dondrom, and Olderfleet) yea and in manner all Conaght, was revol∣ted; Thomas Lord Burrough, a man full of courage and politicke withall, was sent [ E] Lord Deputie into Ireland. And about that time Sir Iohn Norris distasting himselfe and the new Deputie, ended his life.

At which time the Earle beseeched by his letters a Cessation of armes; and verily it seemed good policie to grant it for a moneth. After the moneth expired, the Deputie brought his forces together, and which was thought to stand with his pro∣fit and honour both, at his first entry into government, aranged them in order of bat∣tell against the Earle: and albeit hee was welcomed by the Earle with a doubtfull and dangerous peece of service within the space of the Moiry, yet made hee way through by his valor, and most valiantly won the Fort at Blackewater, repaired and re-enforced by the Rebels, by which the way lieth into the Countie of Tir-Oen, [ F] and which besides woods and marshes, was the onely strength that the Rebels had: and by this first attempt gave good proofe, that if the warre were well prosecuted, they might easily be vanquished. The very same day whereon this Fort was taken, whiles the Deputie together with his armie were giving thankes unto God for this victorie, suddenly an allarum was given, and the enemie shewed himselfe from an hill hard by: against whom, Henrie Earle of Kildare presently marched, with a cor∣net

of horse and certaine of the better sort of Gentlemen voluntaries, and setting [ A] upon them, put them to flight. Yet were there slaine of the English part, Francis Vagham brother to the Lord Deputies wife, R. Turner Serjeant Major a doughty and approved servitour, two of the Earle of Kildares foster brethren: whose death he tooke so heavily, that himselfe within few daies after for griefe of heart ended his life. For there is no love in the world comparable by many degrees to that of foster∣brethren in Ireland.

But many more were wounded, and among the rest Sir Thomas Waler, highly commended for his Martiall forwardnesse. After that this Fort was with new muni∣tions re-enforced, no sooner had the L. Deputy withdrawne his army from thence, [ B] but the Rebels waving now betweene hope, feare, and shame, thought it their best and safest course straightly to besiege it: For the Earle supposed it was the most im∣portant place to offend and annoy them, as that both his honour and fortunes were for ever at their down-set if he might not recover it. With a strong power therefore he beleaguered it round about. Against whom the Deputy straightway setteth for∣ward and marched without intermission: but alas, marching on thus in his full pace to victory, hee was arrested by violence of sicknesse, and cut off by untimely death, leaving a great misse of him to the State, and security to the ranging Rebels. Certes, if he had lived longer, by the judgement of wisemen, he had abated their insolencies, and the State had not beene plunged into so great perils. [ C]

The Rebels understanding of the Deputies death, became exceeding stout and bold, and so eft-soones with mighty out-cries and furious violence assaulted the Fort, but repulsed alwaies they were with the greater losse: they that gave the Scallado were thrown down headlong, and most of them, by the Garrison souldiers sallying resolutely upon them borne downe and troden under foot, in so much as distrusting now to maine force, they changed their copy and determined to protract the siege, being perswaded that they within had victuals but for few daies; and besides, they conceived good hope that the Garrison souldiers for very want would bee wave∣ring in their alleageance and turne traitours. But through the singular valour of Tho∣mas Williams the Captaine, and of the band within, the place was manfully defen∣ded: [ D] who having suffered hunger, sharp fights, and all extremities, after they had eaten up their horses, were driven to pluck up the weeds growing among the stones for their food, and endured all the miseries that might be.

Now by this time the government was by authority from the Queene commit∣ted unto the Earle of Ormond, under the title of Lievtenant Generall of the Armie, un∣to the Chancellor, and Sir Robert Gardiner. Then Tir-Oen recapitulateth in a long letter unto the said Lievtenant all his greivances afore specified: and not leaving out the least insolencie either of souldiers, or of Sheriffes, coldly excuseth his breach of Covenants with Sir John Norris. But principally he complaines, that Feogh Mac-Hugh, a ••eere associate and kinsman of his, had been persecuted and executed: and in [ E] the end, That his letters unto the Queen were in England intercepted and suppressed: as also, that those impositions and compositions laid both upon the Nobles and Commons were intolerable. He addeth moreover and saith, he saw full well, that all the Territories of the Nobility and Gentry of Ireland, would shortly bee parted and shared among the Councellors, Lawyers, Souldiers, and Notaries. And here∣with he closely sendeth succour unto the sonnes of Feogh Mach-Hugh, that they might kindle new coales in Leinster. So that now, every man might see that this war was begun to no other end (whatsoever was pretended) but to extirpate the English quite out of Ireland.

* 1.282All this while the Earle continued his siege about the Fort at Black-water; for the [ F] raising whereof, the Lievtenant Generall of the Armie (for there was no Deputy as yet substituted) sent the most choice troupes, fourteene Ensignes, under the conduct of Sir Henry Bagnall, the Mareschall, and the bitterest adversary the Earle had: up∣on whom as he marched with divided troupes, the Earle, edged with fretfull malice, assailed most furiously neere unto Armagh, and forthwith (the Mareschall against

[ A] whom he had bent all his force, being slaine amongst the thickest of his enemies) as he obtained a most joyous triumph over his private adversarie, so he went away with a glorious victory over the English.

And verily, since the time that they set first footing in Ireland, they never had a greater overthrow; wherein thirteene valiant Captaines lost their lives, and fifteene hundred of the common souldiers; who being routed and put to shamefull flight, as they were disparkled all over the fields were cut in pieces: and such as remained alive, laid the fault reproachfully, not upon their owne cowardice, but their chiefe leaders unskilfulnesse (a thing now a daies ordinary.) Immediately upon this, followed the [ B] yeelding up of the Fort at Black-water: when as the garrison souldiers having held out with loyaltie in heart, and weapon in hand, unto extreme famine, being now dri∣ven to exceeding great distresse, saw all hopelesse of succour and reliefe. A notable victory this was, and of great consequence to the Rebels, who furnished themselves hereby with armour and victuals: and now the Earle renowned all Ireland over, and magnified in every place as the founder of their freedome, above all measure swelled with haughty arrogancy: and sent into Mounster, Ouny-Mac-Rory-Og-O-More, and Tirell (who although by his first originall he were of English blood, yet none so ma∣liciously bent against the English name as hee) with 4000. preying rogues: against whom Sir Thomas Norris, President of that Province, advanced forward with a strong [ C] power as far as to Kilmalock: but before hee saw the enemy he dispersed his forces, and retired backe to Corcke.

Which when the Rebels understood, having a great rabble of most lewd rascals flocking from all parts unto them, they fell to waste the country, to drive booties be∣fore them, to ransack and burne where ever they went, the castles, houses, and farme places of the English, and most cruelly in all places to kill them: Iames Fitz-Thomas, one of the family of the Earles of Desmond, they set up as Earle of Desmond; yet so, as he should hold as tenant in fee of the O-Neal, or Earle of Tir-Oen. And thus after a month, when they had kindled this fire, and set all in a flame in Mounster, they retur∣ned backe loaden with rich booties. The Earle by this time in his letters to the King [ D] of Spaine faileth not to resound his owne victories with full mouth; and therewith beseecheth him not to give eare and beleeve, if happily hee should heare any Eng∣lishmen report that he desired peace: for why? hee had hardened his heart against all conditions of peace were they never so indifferent, and would most firmely keep his faithfull promise made unto the said King. Yet in this while wrought he meanes of intercession, by letters and messengers eft-soones sent unto the Earle of Ormond, (but all colourably) about a submission, and his demands withall were most unrea∣sonable.

In this desperate estate stood Ireland when Queene Elizabeth chose Robert Earle of Essex (then glorious for the winning of Cadis in Spaine) in regard of his approved [ E] wisedome,* 1.283 fortitude, and fidelity, Lievtenant and Governour generall of Ireland, to repaire the detriments and losses there sustained,* 1.284 with most large and ample autho∣rity added in his Commission, To make an end of the war; and that which by impor∣tunity, as it were, hee wrested from her, To remit and pardon all crimes, even of high treason: which alwaies in the Patents of every Lord Deputy were thus in these very words before time restrained (All treasons and treacheries touching our own person, our heires and successours excepted.) And verily with good and provident forecast he ob∣tained the authority to pardon crimes of this kinde, considering that Lawyers doe resolve and set downe, That all Rebellions whatsoever touch the Princes person. There was committed to his charge as great an army as he required, roially furni∣shed [ F] and provided, and such as Ireland had never seen the like before: that is, sixteene thousand footmen, and thirteene hundred horsemen: which number was made up after twenty thousand compleat. And he had speciall charge given him, without re∣gard of all other Rebells whatsoever, to bend the whole puissance and force of the war upon the Arch-Rebell the Earle of Tir-Oen, as the head of all the rest, and with all speed to presse hard upon him with garrisons planted at Lough-Foile, and Bala-Shanon:

a thing that himselfe had alwaies thought most important, and in accusatory [ A] tearms charged and challenged the former Deputies for their neglect in that behalfe.

Thus he, honourably accompanied with the flower of Noble gallants, and well wishing acclamations of the common people, yet with a strange thunder-clap in a cleare sun-shine day, hee setteth forward from London, toward the end of March: and being sore tossed and rejected with an adverse tempest, at length arrived in Ire∣land. Where having, after the manner, received the sword, presently contrary to his charge and commission, by the advice of some of the Councell of State there (who too much regarded their owne particular) he, neglecting the Arch-rebell, advanced forward with all his power against petty Rebels in Mounster; and having taken Cahir, [ B] a castle of Thomas Butlers Baron of Cahir (into which, being environed about with the river Showr, certaine seditious persons had betaken themselves) and driven away a number of cattell, he made himselfe terrible to all the country farre and wide, and dispersed the Rebels every way into woods and forrests. Yet in this while he recei∣ved no small foile and overthrow by the cowardise of some who served under Sir Henry Harrington, whom he punished very severely by martiall discipline. Neither returned he before the latter end of July, with his souldiers wearied, sickly, and their number more than a man would beleeve, diminished.

When upon his returne he understood that the Queene was displeased at this ex∣pedition of his, so costly, and yet damageable, and that she urged still a journey into [ C] Ulster against the Earle, and no other; in his missives unto her Majesty he transferred all the fault from himselfe upon the Councell of Ireland, unto whom for their mani∣fold experience in the affaires of Ireland, he could not choose but condescend: pro∣mising and protesting most faithfully, to set forward with all speed into Ulster. Scarce were these letters delivered, when he dispatcheth others after them, wherein he signi∣fieth, that upon necessity he must turne his journey aside into Ophaly, neere to Dub∣lin, against the O-Conors, and the O-Moils, who were there risen and in armes; whom he quickly and fortunately vanquished with light skirmishes.

Now returning, and having taken a review of his army, he found it so weakened and impaired, that by his letters subscribed with the hands of the Councellers of Ire∣land, hee craved a new supply of a thousand souldiers for his expedition into Ulster, [ D] which he promised to undertake speedily with solemne protestations.

Being now fully resolved to turne the whole warre upon Ulster, hee commanded Sir Coniers Clifford Governour of Conaght, to goe with certain bands lightly appoin∣ted toward Bellike, to the end that the Earles forces might bee distracted one way, whiles he himselfe set upon him another way. Clifford forthwith putting himselfe on his journy with a power of 1500. commanded his souldiers out-toiled with travel∣ling so farre, and having but small store of gun-powder, to passe over the mountaines of Curlew. And when they had gotten over the most part of them, the Rebels under the leading of O-Rorke assailed them on the sudden. The English easily at the first [ E] caused them to recule, and marched on forward in their journey: but when the ene∣mies perceived once that they were at a default already for gun-powder, they char∣ged them afresh, and for that they were tired with so long a march, and not able to make resistance, put them to flight, slew many of them, and among the rest Clifford himselfe, together with Sir Alexander Ratcliffe of Ordsall. Mean while, that supply which the Lord Lievtenant required was levied in England, and transported: some few daies after, hee gave the Queene to understand by other letters, that hee could for this yeere performe no more, than with a thousand and three hundred footmen, and three hundred horse goe to the frontiers of Ulster. Thither came hee about the thirteenth day of September; before whom the Earle with his forces two daies to∣gether [ F] from the hills made a Bravado, and shewed himselfe: and in the end sending Hagan before, he requested the Lievtenant that they might parlie together: which hee refused to doe, answering, that if the Earle would talke with him, he should finde him the next morrow in the head of his troopes. On which day, after a light skir∣mish made, a horseman from out of the Earles troopes with a loud voice delivered

as a message, that the Earle was not willing to fight, but to parly with the L. Lievte∣nant: yet in no wise at that instant. The day following as the Lord Leivtenant was marching forward, Hagan meeteth him, who declareth that the Earle humbly desired to have the Queenes mercy and peace, and besought withall, that he might have but audience for a while: which if he would grant, then would he with all reverence and observance expect him at the Foord of the river hard by (Balla-Clinch they call it.)

This Foord is not far from Louth, the head towne of the County, and neere unto the Castle of Gerard Fleming. Thither sent the L. Lievtenant before some of purpose to discover the place; who found the Earle at the said Foord, and he told them, that [ B] although the river was risen, yet might a man be easily heard from one side to the o∣ther. Hereupon the Lord Lievtenant having bestowed a troupe of horsemen in the next hill there by came downe alone; the Earle riding his horse into the water up to the belly, in dutifull and reverent sort saluteth the Lievtenant being on the banke side, and so with many words passing to and fro betweene them, without any wit∣nesses by to heare them, they spent almost an houre. Then both of them retire unto their companies: and Con a base sonne of the Earles following hard after the L. Leiv∣tenant, besought him in his fathers name that certaine principall persons of his traine might bee admitted to a conference. The L. Lievtenant assented thereto, so they were not above six. Then forthwith the Earle taking with him his brother Cormoc, [ C] Mac Gennys, Mac Guir, Ever Mac Cowley, Henry Ovington and O-Quin, sheweth himselfe at the Foord. Unto them the L. Lievtenant came down, accompanied with the Earle of Southampton, Sir George Bourchier, Sir Warrham St. Leger, Sir Henry Dan∣vers, Sir Edward Wingfeld,* 1.285 and Sir William Constable Knights. The Earle saluteth them every one with great courtesie, and after some few words between them passed, thought good that certaine Commissioners should the next day following treat of peace: between whom it was agreed, that there should be a tr••ce from that very day for six weeks, and so forward from six weeks to six weeks unto the first of May: yet so, as it might be free for both sides, after fourteen daies warning given aforehand, to begin warre afresh. And if that any Confederate of the Earles would not yeeld his [ D] assent hereto, he left him unto the L. Lievtenant to prosecute him at his pleasure.

Whiles these things were a doing, those letters of the Lord Lievtenant which I spake of erewhile, were delivered to the Queen by Henrie Cuffe (a man very learned, but as unfortunate.) Which when she had perused through, and understood there∣by, that her Lievtenant, with so great an armie, in so long time, and with the expence of so much money, had effected just nothing, nor would doe ought that yeere; shee being highly offended thereat, writeth backe againe to himselfe, and to the Coun∣cellers of Ireland in these termes: That his proceeding answered neither her directi∣on, nor the worlds expectation; that shee could not but marvell much, why the Lievtenant by prolonging thus from time to time, and by finding meanes still of fur∣ther [ E] delay, had lost those excellent opportunities which he had of prosecuting war upon that Arch-rebell: considering that himselfe, whiles he was in England, advi∣sed nothing else, but to prosecute the Earle himselfe, and none but him; yea and in his letters otherwhiles seriously promised to doe the same. She expostulated, where∣fore hee had made those unprofitable journeyes (even against his owne judgement when it was found) into Mounster and Ophaly, whereof he had not certified her, nor given so much as any notice before they were undertaken? which otherwise shee would expressely have countermanded. If his armie were now broken, weake, and much empaired, why undertooke hee not the action upon the enemie whiles it was entire, strong, and complete? If the spring had not been a fit season for to make war in [ F] Ulster, wherefore was the summer, wherefore was the autumne neglected? what, was there no time of the yeere meet for that war? Well, shee now foresaw that her Kingdome of England must be impoverished beyond all measure by such expences, her honour blemished among forrain Princes, and the Rebels encouraged by this un∣fortunate successe: yea they that shall pen the Story of this time, will deliver unto posterity, that she for her part was at great charge to hazzard her Kingdome of Ire∣land,

and that he had taken great paines, and had left nothing undone, to prepare for [ A] many purposes which perished without undertaking, if now at length he tooke not a course for the maine prosecution of the war. In tart termes therefore she admoni∣sheth both him, and the Councellers of the Kingdome, to look more considerately to the good of the State, and not from thence forward to be transported contrary waies by indirect counsell; commanding them withall, to write into what case they had brought the Kingdome of Ireland; and carefully to foresee, that all inconveniences from thenceforth might be diligently prevented.

* 1.286The Lord Lievtenant startled, or rather galled with these letters, speedeth in all hast, and sooner than any man would have thought, into England, accompanied with [ B] some men of quality, and well and early in a morning comming upon the Queene at unwares, while she was most private and in her bed chamber, presents himselfe upon his knees unto her; who after she had welcomed him with a short speech (and not with that countenance as heretofore) commanded him to withdraw himselfe unto his owne chamber, and there to keepe. For the Queene was highly offended with him, both because hee, contrary to her commandement, had left his charge so suddenly without her leave, and before he had setled the State; and also had treated with the Rebels to her dishonour privately, and upon equall termes, with condition of tolera∣tion of Religion, and to her diservice, when as the Rebels made profit of all cessati∣ons: and moreover, that hee had agreed upon such a cessation as might every four∣teenth [ C] night be broken, whereas it was in his power by the authoritie that he had, to make a finall end with the Rebels, and to pardon their treason and rebellion.

What befell him afterwards in England, and how it appeared by pregnant pre∣sumptions, and some evidence, that he aimed at other matters than war against Re∣bels, whiles hee could not finde in his heart to remit private distastes for the publike good, and relied too much upon popularitie (which is alwaies momentany, and never fortunate) it is impertinent to this place, neither take I pleasure so much as to remember the same.

The said cessation was scarcely once or twice expired, when the Earle of Tir-Oen drew his forces together, and addresseth himselfe againe to war. Unto whom there [ D] was sent from the State Sir William Warren, to know of him wherefore he brake the Cessation that was made? Unto whom in the swelling pride of his heart he haughtily answered, That he had not broken the Cessation, considering he had given fourteene daies warning before, that he ment to renew the warre; and that he had just cause to war a fresh: for why? he understood that the Lord Lievtenant, in whom he had re∣posed all his hope and whole estate, was committed in England: Neither would he have any thing to doe from thence forth with the Councellours of the Kingdome, that had dealt before time so craftily and deceitfully with him. And as for the Cessa∣tion, would he never so faine, he could not revoke it, because he had already entred another course, and appointed O-Donel to goe into Conaught, and other of his con∣federates [ E] into other parts.

In this meane space, there ran among the Rebells rumours very rife (and the Earle of Tir-Oen questionlesse was the authour) that there should be within a while the greatest and strangest alteration that ever was in England; and lewd persons be∣gan daily to encrease both in number and in courage. For they that were of the Irishry, aspired now to their ancient freedome and Nobility; contrariwise good and honest men of the English blood were much dejected and discouraged, seeing so great expences of the Prince came to nothing: who also complained one unto another, that they had been of late excluded as meere strangers from bearing offices in the com∣mon-Weale. But the Earle, all in a glorious jollity giveth it out every where, and [ F] that with open mouth, That he would recover the liberty both of Religion and of his Country; he receiveth in every place busie and tumultuous persons into his protecti∣on, he sends them succour and aide, strengthneth and comforteth the distrustfull, stoutly streineth and setteth-to his helping hand to subvert the English government in Ireland, being drawne on and fed with hope which the King of Spaine, by sen∣ding

[ A] now and then munition, and some money made shew of, and the Pope by pro∣mises and indulgences maintained, as having sent unto him before the plume of a Phoenix, haply because Pope Urban the third had sent in times past a little Coronet, platted with peacocks feathers, unto Iohn, King Henries the second his sonne, when he was invested Lord of Ireland.

And now triumphantly glorying of his victories, to the end that he might make a goodly shew of his greatnesse in every place, and by his personall presence set that fire to burne out light, which in his absence hee had kindled in Mounster; under a faire and religious pretence of visiting a little peece of wood of Christs Crosse (which is [ B] thought to be kept in the Monastery of the Holy Crosse in Tipperary) in mid-winter thither hee goes on Pilgrimage, and sent out into the grounds of true and faithfull subjects a number of preying robbers, under the conduct of Mac-Guir: he by chance hapned upon Sir Warrham Saint Leger, who runne him through with his lance, and was withall at the same instant himselfe runne through by him. Whose funeralls when the Earle had performed, he hasteneth home sooner than all men looked for, as having heard, that the Earle of Ormond, appointed Generall of the Army, was rai∣sing of a power from all parts,* 1.287 and that Sir Charles Blunt Baron Mon••joy, appointed the Lord Deputy, was comming; unto whom the Queene before time had pur∣posed in her minde this government; but Robert Earle of Essex (who for to plea∣sure [ C] military men, and to deserve the better of them, into whose love he studiously insinuated himselfe, sought, though covertly, to compasse the same himselfe) wholly opposed against him, as if he, the said Lord Montjoy, had seene no service, nor beene experienced in the warres, more than in the Netherlands, had no follow∣ers and dependants, nor much aforehand with the world, and overmuch bookish. He arriveth in Ireland in the moneth of February, without any great noise and stirre, accompanied with a small traine, and so entred upon the Government. Now hee found the state of Ireland very distressed, or rather desperately sick, and past all hope of recovery, yea at the point, as it were, to give up the ghost: for every good and honest meaning minde was dismaied to see such a confluence of calamities, without all [ D] hope of remedy, or any allevation at all: but the worst sort seeing all to goe well on their side, and prosper still to their desire, rejoiced and applauded one the other; and the Earle himselfe without any resistance had passed through the whole length of the Iland in triumphant manner, even from the utmost part of Ulster, into Mounster. The Rebells moreover, to terrifie the Deputy now at his first comming, strucke up an Al'arme in the very suburbs of Dublin. But he, full of good courage, desired no∣thing more than to set upon the Earle himselfe, who, as hee had intelligence given him, was to returne out of Mounster. Mustering up therefore in all haste such a power as hee could (for the companies of choice souldiers were in Mounster already with the Earle of Ormond) he hastened to stop the Earles passage in Fereal, and there [ E] to give him battell. But the Earle by celerity and quicke speed prevented him, be∣ing privily enformed of the Deputies designes: for certaine there were even of the Queenes Councell there, who alwaies highly favoured and tendered his procee∣dings.

The Deputy being returned to Dublin, was wholly busied in mustering of the old souldiers, that should be sent by shipping to Logh-Foile and Bala-shanon neere unto the mouth of Logh-Earn, that by placing garrisons there, they might make sallies upon the Earle both on backe and sides; as also about sending aide unto the garrison souldiers in Lease and Ophaly, a matter by reason of so many enemies round about, of great danger and difficulty.

[ F] In the beginning of May, the Deputy put himselfe on his march toward Ulster, with this purpose, to divert the Earle another way, whiles Sir Henry Docwra at Logh-foile, and Sir Matthew Morgan at Bala-shanon planted the garrisons: which they with small adoe effected; for Sir Henry Docwra tooke Logh-foile, and Sir Iohn B••lle who accompanied him, tooke Don-a-long and Lhiffer castles, suppressing the rebells with divers overthrowes.

Whiles the Earle was every day kept occupied by the Deputy with light skirmi∣shes, [ A] wherein he evermore had so bad successe, that hee perceived now the fortune of warre was turned, and himselfe driven back into his owne corners. The Lord De∣puty being returned in Mid-June, when as the garrisons aforesaid were placed accor∣dingly, required out of England certaine companies of souldiers and victuals, for to bestow and plant a garrison also in these parts at Armagh, thereby to bring the Re∣bels within a straighter compasse.

Meane while hee tooke a journey into Lease, which was the place of refuge and receipt of all the Rebels in Leinster: where he slew Ony-Mac-Rory-Og, the chiefe of the O-Mores family, a bloody bold, and most desperate young man; who of late had [ B] made so soule a stirre in Mounster; him I say he slew, with other most wicked and mischievous Rebells: and after he had layed their fields waste, hee chased them into woods and forrests, so as that in those parts they were scarcely ever after seene. When as now new succours were come out of England, although he wanted both come and money, the Equinoxe was past, and winter weather began already in that climate, yet marched hee forward to the very entrance of Moyery, three miles be∣yond Dondalk. This passage is naturally the most combersome of all others well neere in Ireland, which the Rebells had fortified and blocked up with pallisadoes and fences, with stakes pitched into the ground, with hurdles joyned together, and stones in the midst, and turfes of earth, betwixt the hills, woods, and bogges quite overthwart on both sides, with great skill and greater industry, yea and manned the [ C] place with a number of souldiers. Besides these difficulties in his way, the weather also was passing rigorous, by reason of much raine that fell continually for certaine daies together, whereby the rivers swelling high and overflowing their banks, were altogether unpassable.

But when the waters were fallen, the English courageously brake through those pallisadoes or senses aforesaid, and having beaten backe their enemies, and over∣come all difficulties, the Lord Deputy placed a garrison eight miles from Armagh (for at Armagh the Rebells had eaten up and consumed all) which in memory of Sir Iohn Norris, under whom he had his first rudiments in the profession of Armes, [ D] he commanded to be called Mount-Norris; over which he made Captaine E. Blany, a stout and valiant Gentleman, who afterwards in this part, like as Sir Henry Docwra in the other, troubled the Rebells sore, and withall kept them forcibly in awe. In his returne (that I may passe over with silence the skuffling skirmishes which happe∣ned every day) the Rebells in the passe neere unto Carlingford, where they had stop∣ped up the way, in a memorable overthrow were discomfited, and put to fearefull flight.

Some few daies after, the Lord Deputy, because hee would lose no time, entred in the very middest of winter the Glynnes, that is, the vallies in Leinster, a secure receptacle of Rebells; where having wasted the countrey, he brought Donell Spani∣oh, [ E] Phelim Mac-Feogh, and that tumultuous and pernicious Sept of the O Tools unto submission, and tooke hostages of them. Afterward hee went as farre as Fereall; and drave Tirell, the most approved warriour of all the Rebells, out of his own holds, or as they call it, Fastnesses (a place full of bogges, and beset thicke with bushes) into Ulster. Now by this time by fetching many a compasse was he come victorious in every place, as farre as to the frontier of Ulster: which he entred, and first having slaine the two sonnes of Ever Mac Cowley, he laied the territory of Fernes wast, and sent out Sir Richard Morison to spoile the Fues. In Breany he placed a garrison, by the conduct of Sir Oliver Lambard: and turning downe to Tredagh, hee received into his protection and mercy such of the principall Rebels as submitted themselves; [ F] namely, Turlogh Mac-Henry, a great man and Potentate in Fues, Ever Mac Cowly, O-Hanlan, who glorieth in this, that by inheritance hee is Standard-bearer to the Kings of Ulster, and many of the Mac-Mahons, and O-Realies, who delivered up for hostages their dearest friends and kinsfolke. The spring now approaching, before all the forces were assembled and come together, the Lord Deputy marcheth

[ A] to Moyery, where by cutting down the woods, he made the way passable, and there erected a fort: out of Lecall he expelled the Mac-Genisses, who usurped lands there, and reduced all the Rebels fortresses and holds about Armagh to his obedience: Armagh also he fortified with a garrison. And so farre went he forward, that hee re∣moved the Earle from Black-water (who had very artificially encamped himselfe there) and purposed somewhat lower to set up a sort.

About which time many signified unto him by letters for certainty, that which he had heard before bruited by a common rumour still more and more encreased, namely, that the Sparniards were arrived in Mounster. So that now he was of necessity [ B] to desist and give over this prosecution in Ulster, and Ireland was to be defended, not so much from inward rebellion, as from forraine enemies. And yet, lest what he had already recovered should be lost againe, after he had strengthened the garrisons, he speedily posteth into Mounster, journeying continually with one or two companies of horse, commanding the Captaines of the footmen to follow hard after.

For whiles he was earnestly busied about the warre in Ulster, the Earle, and his as∣siociates the Rebels of Mounsters by their Agents, a certaine Spaniard elect Arch∣bishop of Dublin by the Pope, the Bishop of Clonfort, the Bishop of Killaloe, and Ar∣cher a Jesuite, had obtained at length, with praying, intreating, and earnest beseech∣ing at the King of Spaines hand, that succour should bee sent into Mounster to the [ C] Rebels, under the conduct of Don John D' Aquila, upon assured hope conceived, that all Mounster would shortly revolt, and the titular Earle of Desmond, and Florens Mac-Carty joyne great aides unto them. But Sir George Carew the Lord President of Mounster, had providently before intercepted them, and sent them over into England.

Thus D' Aquila arrived at Kinsale in Mounster with two thousand Spaniards, old souldiers, and certaine Irish fugitives, the last day of October: and straightwaies ha∣ving published a writing, wherein hee gloriously stileth himselfe with this title, [MASTER Generall and Captaine of the Catholick King in the warre of God, for hold∣ing and keeping the Faith in Ireland] endevoureth to make the world beleeve, That [ D] Queene Elizabeth by the definitive sentences of the Popes was deprived of her kingdomes, and her subjects absolved and freed from their oath of allegeance, and that hee and his men were come to deliver them out of the devils clawes, and the English tyrannie. And verily with this goodly pretence, he drew a number of lewd and wicked persons to band and side with him.

The Lord Deputie, having gathered together all the Companies of souldiers that he could, prepareth himselfe to the siege: and Sir Richard Levison the Vice-Admirall, sent out of England with one or two of the Queenes ships to impeach all accesse, fore-closeth the haven. The English, when they had now encamped themselves, began from land and sea to thunder with their ordnance upon the [ E] towne, and more straightly to beleaguer it round about: which siege notwith∣standing was by and by not so forcibly urged; for that, on the one side, Levison with the sea souldiers was sent before against two thousand Spaniards newly landed, at Bere-haven, Baltimor, and Castle Haven, of whose ships hee sunke five: on the other side the President of Mounster, at the same time was dispatched with cer∣taine troupes to get the start of O-Donell, who was now approaching, that hee should not joyne with that new supplie of the Spaniards. But hee, when as now all the Country was over frozen, had by speedie journeyes in the night, through blind by-waies, gotten to those Spaniards newly arrived, and was not so much as once seene.

[ F] Some few daies after, the Earle of Tir-Oen also himselfe came with O-Rork, Rai∣mund Burk, Mac-Mahon, Randall Mac-Surley, Tirell, the Baron of Lixnaw, and the most select and choice of all the Rebels, unto whom when Alphonso O Campo, the leader of the new-come Spaniards, had joyned his forces, they mustered themselves sixe thousand footmen, and five hundred horse strong, in a confident hope of victo∣ry, because they were more in number, fresh and better furnished with all kinde of

meanes: whereas contrariwise the English were out-wearied with the inconveni∣ences [ A] that follow a winter-siege, excluded from victuals; and their horses besides, with travell and hunger together, altogether unserviceable.

In these difficulties and distresses, the Deputie consulteth with the Captaines what was to be done: Some thought the best way was to break up the siege, to re∣tire into Corke, and not to hazzard the whole Realme upon the fortune of one battell. Contrariwise, the Deputy adviseth and perswadeth to persist, and not to degenerate from the approved vertue of their ancestors: adding, that valiant men could not have a more wished opportunity presented unto them, than that which was now fallen into their laps; namely, either to spend their lives with glory, or to vanquish their e∣nemies [ B] with honour. He urgeth therefore and plieth the siege with all the power he had, with raising platformes, and continuall battering he plaied upon the towne, and withall, fortifieth his Campe with new trenches.

Upon the one and twentieth day of December, the Earle of Tir-Oen sheweth him∣selfe with his horse upon an hill about a mile from the campe: and there encamping himselfe, maketh a bravado likewise the next day in the same place: the night fol∣lowing, both the Spaniards sallied forth of the towne, and the Irish also assayed to steale into the towne, but both were forced to retire. On the three and twentieth day, the English men discharge their greater peeces upon the towne, as if they had not cared for the Earle now so neere at hand, and the very same day were the letters [ C] of D' Aquila unto the Earle intercepted: wherein he importuned Tir-Oen, that the Spaniards newly arrived might bee put into the towne, and that they might assaile the campe on both sides. When the Moone was ready to rise over the horizon, the Deputy commanded Sir Henry Poer to leade forth into the field eight ensignes of old souldiers, and to make a stand on the West side of the campe. Sir Henry Greame, who that night had the charge of the horsemen that watched, very earely in the morning advertised the Deputy, that the enemies for certaine would advance for∣ward, for that a great number of their matches were lighted. Hereupon the al'arme was given throughout the campe, and companies placed wheresoever there was any way to the towne.

The Lord Deputy himselfe, with the President of Mounster, and Sir Richard [ D] Wingfeld Marshall, marched toward the watch, and withall by the advise of Sir Olivar Lambart, chooseth out a plot, wherein he might give battell to the ene∣mies: Thither were brought the Ensignes and Regiments of Sir Henry Folliot, and Sir Olivar Saint Iohn, with sixe hundred sea souldiers under the conduct of Sir Richard Levison. But the Earle of Tir-Oen, who resolved (as afterwards it was knowne) to have brought into Kinsale by darke night the new supplie of Spaniards, and eight hundred Irishmen, when hee saw now the day to breake, and beheld withall the Marshall and Sir Henrie Danvers with the power of horsemen, and Poer with the Companies of old souldiers at the foot of the hill, being disappointed of [ E] his hope, stood still, and soone after by his bag-pipers sounded the retreat. No sooner was the Deputy certified of this retreat of his, so confused and disordered, but hee commanded the pursuit, and himselfe advanced before the vantgard, to marke the manner of their retreat, and according to the present occasion to resolve what to doe: but so thicke a mist with a storme beside fell upon the earth, that for a time they could not see before them.

Within a while after, the weather cleering up againe, hee observed that they retired hastily for feare in three great battalions, and with the horsemen placed be∣hind at their backes: hee fully determined therefore to charge upon them, ha∣ving sent backe the President of Mounster with three companies of horsemen in∣to [ F] the campe, to restraine the Spaniards, if haply out of the towne they should sallie and breake out upon them. And the Lord Deputie himselfe followed after the Rebels, with such speed in their retreat, that hee forced them to stand in the brinke of a bogge, whereunto there was no accesse but at a foord: but when those horsemen that kept the foord were by the valour of the Marshall

[ A] and the Earle of Clan-Ricard discomfited, and put to rout the other, and courage∣ously gave the onset upon the maine troupes of the enemies horsmen; which charge when Sir William Godolphin, who had the leading of the Deputies horse, Sir Henry Da••vers, Minshaw, Taff, Fleming, and Sir John Barkly Sergeant Major of the Camp, who joyned with them, redoubled with so great alacrity, that the Rebels presently brake, and fell in disorder. But it was not thought good to follow the chase, but gathe∣ring their forces and power together, they charged upon the maine battell now in feare and wavering; which they also brake. Tirell with his company and the Spaniards all this while kept their standing, and made their ground good: against whom the [ B] Deputy putteth forward his rereward; and that he might accomplish not onely the part of a leader in commanding, but also of a souldier in fighting, with three com∣panies of Oliver S. Iohns, whereof Captaine Roe had the conduct, chargeth violently upon them, and so brake their arraies, that in great disorder and confusion they re∣culed backe and betooke themselves to the Irish, by whom they were presently left unto the edge of the sword, and routed by the troupe of the Duputies horsemen, whereof Sir William Godolphin had the leading. Then Ter-Oen, O-Denel and the rest on all sides put to flight, flung away their weapons, and made what shift they could to save themselves. Alphonso O Campo was taken prisoner with three other Captaines of the Spaniards, and six ensigne bearers; slaine there were one thousand and two hun∣dred, [ C] nine ensignes taken, whereof six were Spanish. Of the English part scarce two men lost their lives, many were wounded, and among them Sir Henry Danvers, Sir William Godolphin, and Cr••ft: so little cost this so great a victory. The Lord De∣puty after he had founded the retreat, and rendred thankes unto almighty God for this victory among the dead bodies of the enemies lying thicke in heapes, gave the order of Knight-hood to the Earle of Clan-Ricard for his right valiant service in this battell: and thus with lucky acclamations returned victor into his Campe, which he found safe and found from all dangers. For the Spaniards within the towne, seeing all places every way made sure with guardes, and having experience before time, that all sallies were to their losse, kept themselves at home in carefull expectation of [ D] the event.

A noble victory this was, and in many regards important, whereby Ireland most miserably distressed and ready to revolt, was retained, the Spaniards ejected, the Arch-rebell Tir-Oen repulsed into his starting holes in Ulster, O Donell driven into Spaine, the rest of the rebellious rable scattered into sundry parts, the Princes regall authority by daunting the l••wlesse insolency recovered, and within a while after a secure peace throughout the Iland firmely established.

The morrow after, the Lord Deputy commanded Captaine Bodley the Trench-master, who both in the fortifications and also in the battell had manfully borne him∣selfe, to finish the Mount begun, and to raise bankes and rampires neerer unto the [ E] enemy: about which when there had beene six dayes spent, D' Aquila in his letters sent by his Drum Major to the Deputy, craved that some Gentlem••n of credit might be sent into the towne, with whom he might parly.

For this purpose was Sir William Godolphin chosen: Unto whom D' Aquila signi∣fieth, that he had found the Lord Deputy, although he were his most eager enemy, yet an honourable person, the Irish of no valour, rude and uncivill, yea and (that which he sore feared) perfidious and false: That he was sent from the King of Spaine his Master, to aide two Earles, and now he doubted whether there were any such in Re∣rum Natura, considering that one tempestuous pusse of warre had blown the one of them into Spaine, the other into the North, so as they were no more to be seene. [ F] Willing therefore he was to treat about a peace, that might be good for English, and not hurtfull to Spaniards: albeit he wanted nothing requisite to the holding out of a siege, and expected every day out of Spaine fresh supplies to finde the English worke and trouble enough. To bee briefe, being as they were on both sides distressed, and weary of siege, they grew to this agreement upon the second day of January, That the Spaniards should yeeld up Kinsale, the Forts, and Castle at Baltimore, Be••••haven,

and Castle Haven, unto the Lord Deputy, and so depart with life, with goods, and [ A] their Banners displaied; that the Englishmen should allow them shipping, paying the full price therefore, wherein they might at two severall passages faile over into Spaine: Also if they hapned in their returne homeward to arrive at any Port in Eng∣land, that they might be kindly entertained: and in the meane time whiles they re∣mained in Ireland waiting for windes, have all necessaries for sustenance ministred un∣to them, for their ready mony.

These things thus concluded, the Spaniards after certaine daies fitted with a good gale of winde set faile from the coast of Ireland with dishonour, as having their companies much impaired, and weake. Meane while the Earle of Tir-Oen in feare∣full [ B] flight got him away, making as great journeyes as possibly he could, through un∣known by-waies, and recovered his lurking holes in Ulster, after he had lost most of his men, whom the rivers risen and running violently by reason of Winter flouds had swallowed up. And afterwards hee could not take his rest without care, no not so much as breath without feare; whiles carrying an evill and burthened conscience he dreaded the due reward of his deserts, and distrusted every one; insomuch as hee sought from day to day new blind corners, and the same straightwaies he abandoned, The Deputy to refresh his wearied souldiers, bestoweth them abroad in garrisons, and after he had setled the State in Mounster, returneth to Dublin. And when the winter season was past, hee by a gentle and easie march (thereby to spread a greater [ C] terrour all abroad) returneth into Ulster with an army well appointed, that he might with Forts and garrisons planted round about, belay the Rebels on every side, as it were, within net and toile. When he was come as far as to Black-water, hee trans∣ported his army upon floats; and having found a Foord unknowne before, beneath the old Fort, he erected a Fort upon the very banke, which after his owne Christian name he called Charle-mont. At which time the Earle of Tir-Oen being affrighted, set fire on his owne house at Dunganon. Then marcheth the Deputy forward from thence to Dunganon: and after hee had encamped himselfe, so soone as Sir Henry Docwra was come unto him from Logh-foile with his company, he sent out his soul∣diers every way. Then might you have seene the corn-fields spoiled, the villages on [ D] every side and houses, so many as they could descry, set on fire and burned, and boo∣ties out of all parts harried. The Forts in Logh-Crew, Logh-Reogh, and Mogher Le∣cowe (where Sir Iohn Barkley, a most valiant martiall man was shot through with a bullet) were yeelded up, hee planted a garrison at Logh-Eaugh, or Logh-Sidney, which after the title of his owne honour he named Mont-joy, and gave unto Sir Ar∣thur Chichester (who by the demerit of his vertue is now Lord Deputy of Ireland) the charge and command thereof; another likewise at Monaghan, which hee com∣mitted unto Sir Christopher St. Laurence: who being leaders of great experience, and greater courage, what with often sallies, and what with traverse journies made too and fro, so coursed and crossed the rebels, that they seeing themselves environed with [ E] garrisons planted round about them, and every day hemmed in and penned in more streightly, that now like wilde beasts of a rascall kinde they must seeke holes and lurk among the thickets, in forrests and woods; most of them changed their copie, and as their fortune, so their fidelity altered, and every one of them began secretly to sub∣mit themselves to the Deputy, striving a vie who should be first; muttering and com∣plaining closely of Tir-Oen, that he had engaged the ruine of the whole nation for his own private discontentments; that this war was only necessary to him, but most per∣nicious to them: neither was the Earle ignorant that both the force and fidelity also of his people and followers was now sore shaken: he determined therefore to prevent the worst, as being weary of misery and calamity, and yet in some hope also of life, [ F] which sometimes overmatch the stoutest. By most submissive letters therefore sent now and then to the Queen, wherein with earnest praiers and teares he besought par∣don for his fault, casting himselfe downe in humble and lowly wise; and she obser∣ved in him such tokens of true repentance, that (as she was a most milde and mercifull Prince) shee gave authority unto the L. Deputy to take him to mercy and favour, in

[ A] case he earnestly craved it. And crave it he did (when hee had heard so much from these that affected and loved him) continually by the most earnest mediation of Arth Mac Baron his brother, and others: and being often rejected, at length in the moneth of February, after he had promised absolutely, and without any condition, to submit his life and all that he had unto the Queene, the Deputy, who had some intelligence out of the Court in England from his inward friends, that the Queene, now farre stept in yeeres, was dangerously sicke, condescended that the Earle might repaire unto Mellifont: and thither forthwith came he out of his lurking holes in all speed, accompanied with one or two, and no more. Being admitted into the chamber of [ B] presence (where the L. Deputy with a number of martiall men about him was set in a chaire of estate, in the very entry of the place) he in poore and foule array, with a de∣jected countenance, bewraying his forlorne estate, falleth downe upon his knees, and when hee had so kneeled a while, the Lord Deputy signified unto him that hee should approach neerer: whereupon he rose up, and after he had stepped in lowly ma∣ner some few paces forward, he kneeled downe againe, and cast himselfe prostrate like a most humble suppliant. He acknowledgeth his sinne to God, and fault unto his most gracious Prince and soveraigne Lady Queene Elizabeth, in whose royall clemency and mercy lay the onely hope that he had now remaining, to whose pleasure he submitteth whol∣ly and absolutely his life and whole estate. He most demisely beseecheth, that whose boun∣tifull [ C] favour in times past, and mighty power now of late he had felt and found, he might now have experience of her mercifull lenity, and that he might be for ever the example of her Princely clemency. For neither was his age as yet so unserviceable, nor his body so much disabled, ne yet his courage so daunted, but that by his valiant and faithfull service in her behalf, he could expiate and make satisfaction for this most disloiall rebellion. And yet, to extenuate his crime, he began to say, that through the malicious envy of some, he had bin very hardly and unreasonably deali with. As he was enforcing this point further, the Deputy interrupted him, and cut off his speech; and after a few words, delivered with great authority (which in a martiall man doth stand in stead of eloquence) to this ef∣fect, that there was no excuse to be made for so grievous and hainous a crime, with [ D] few other words, he commanded him to withdraw himselfe: and the next day car∣ried him away with him toward Dublin, purposing to bring him from thence into England before Queene Elisabeth, that shee might determine at her pleasure what to doe with him. But in this meane time, that most excellent Princesse, a little after that she had intelligence (that nothing might be wanting to the accomplishment of her glory) how this rebellion was extinguished, which had not a little disquieted her, departed godly and peaceably out of this transitory life into the eternall.

Thus the warre of Ireland, or the rebellion rather of the Earle of Tir-Oen, begun upon private grudges and quarrels intermedled with ambition, cherished at first by contempt, and sparing of charges out of England, spred over all Ireland (under [ E] the colourable pretence of restoring libertie and Romish Religion) continued by un∣toward emulation of the English, and covetousnesse of the old souldiers, protracted by the subtill wiles and fanied submissions of the Earle, by the most cumbrous and disadvantageous difficulty of the countrey, and by a desperate kinde of people, sa∣ving themselves more by good footmanship than their valour, confirmed through the light credulity of some, and the secret favour of others that were in place of autho∣rity, heartned with one or two fortunate encounters, fed and somented with Spanish money and Spanish supplies, in the eighth yeere after it first brake out, under the happy direction of Queen Elisabeth of sacred memorie, and the fortunate conduct of the Lord Deputy Sir Charles Blunt Baron of Mont-joy (whom afterwards in regard [ F] hereof King Iames created Earle of Devonshire) was most happily dispatched, and firme peace, as we hope, for ever established.

[ A]

THE MANERS OF THE IRISHRY, BOTH OF OLD AND OF LATER TIMES.

* 1.288THe place requireth now, that I should adde somewhat of the man∣ners of this people: and that verily will I doe, as touching their ancient behaviour, out of ancient Historiographers: and concer∣ning the latter, out of a moderne writer both learned and diligent, [ B] who hath set downe these matters most exactly.

As concerning the Irish of ancient times, when as they were, as all other nations beside in this tract, barbarous and savage, thus much have old authors recorded.

Strabo in his fourth booke of Ireland, saith, I can deliver nothing for certaine, but that the inhabitants thereof are more rude than the Britans, as who both feed upon mans flesh,* 1.289 and also devoure exceeding muth meat; yea and they thinke it a point of honesty to eat the bodies of their dead parents, and wantonly to have company not onely with other mens wives, but even with their owne mothers and sisters. Which things verily we relate so, as having no witnesses hereof that be of sufficient credit. Certes the report goes, that [ C] the manner of the Scythians is to eat mans flesh; and it is recorded of the Gaules, Spa∣niards, and many more besides, that by occasion of urgent necessity and extremities of siege, that they have done the same.

Pomponius Mela in his third book writeth thus: The inhabitants are uncivill, igno∣rant of all vertues, and utterly voide of religion.

Solinus in the 24. chapter, When they have atchieved any victory, the blood of those that are slaine they first drinke, and then besmeare their faces with it. Right and wrong is all one with them. A woman lying in childbed, if she have at any time brought forth a man childe, laieth the first meat she gives it upon her husbands sword, and with the very point thereof putteth it softly into the infants mouth, in hansell as it were of the nourishment [ D] it shall have hereafter; and with certaine heathenish vowes wisheth, That it may dye no otherwise than in warre and by the sword. They that endevour to be more handsome and civill than the rest, make their sword handles gay with the teeth of great Whales, and such sea monsters, for they be as white as Ivory. And why? the men take a principall pride and glory in the keeping of their weapons faire and bright.

But these fashions savour of greater antiquity. Their conditions of the middle time Giraldus Cambrensis hath here and there treated of, and out of him others. But now for their later demeanour, take them here with you out of that foresaid Moderne writer, a studious and painefull man, and that in his owne words: who, as I collect, was named I. Good, brought up in Oxford, by profession and calling a Priest, and who [ E] about the yeere of our Lord 1566. taught the Schoole at Limiricke. But first I will briefely premise, according to my promise made even now, somewhat as touching the manner of the jurisdiction that is used among the meere Irish, out of others.

* 1.290Their great men and Potentates, whose names have the fourth vowell (O) put be∣fore them, as a mark of preheminence & excellency, as O-Neal, O-Rork, O-Donel, &c. and many of the rest, to whose name (Mac) is prefixed, have peculiar rights and privi∣ledges of their owne, whereby they domineere and Lord it most proudly, and what with tributes, exactions, paiments, and impositions upon their subjects, for their soul∣diers, Galloglasses, Kernes, and horsemen, whom they are to finde and maintaine, they so prey upon their goods and estates, and oppresse them at their owne pleasure, [ F] that the condition of all those which live under them is most miserable: and so often as there be any civill wars risen among them, they sucke out of them their very mar∣row and heart blood.

These Nobles or Potentates aforesaid have their Lawyers belonging unto them, whom they terme Brehons,* 1.291 like as the Gothes named theirs Bellagines: who be∣ing

[ A] a sort of most unlearned men, upon certaine set daies, on the top of some excee∣ding high hill, sit to minister justice unto the neighbour inhabitants, betweene such as are at variance and goe to law. Before which Judges, the Plaintiffes with a pitifull voice make moane, and complaine of the wrongs offered unto them: the defendants stand firmely upon their deniall. If any bee convict evidently of theft, they give sen∣tence either to make restitution of the same, or recompence by a fine imposed upon them. These Potentates also have their Historians about them, who write downe their acts and deeds; they have their Physitians also, and Rimers, whom they call Bards; yea and their Harpers, who have every one of them their severall livelods and [ B] lands set out for them:* 1.292 and of these, there be in each territorie, severall professours and those liable to some certaine and severall families: that is to say, the Brehons bee of one stocke and name, the Historians of another, and so of the rest, who instruct their owne children or kinsmen every one in their owne art, and have some of them alwaies to be their successors. Now, among these great Lords and Nobles, there is no hereditarie right of succession observed, but whosoever of any principall house is of greater puissance in regard of strength, retinewes of followers, and boldnesse, he by a certaine faction or election of the people in that province, usurpeth the Lord∣ship and soveraigntie over the rest, quite excluding the sonnes, nephewes, and next in blood of the party deceased: and so with certaine complements of barbarous cere∣monies [ C] is enthronized in the open aire, upon a little hill for that purpose appointed, upon a Stone for a chaire of estate. At which time also, by a certaine law called Tanistry,* 1.293 there is sometime nominated and declared a successour, who is termed Tanist, I wote not whether by a word borrowed from the Danes, among whom, as among the Northren inhabitants of Britaine, Thane was a long time used for a noble man, and the Kings especiall officer.

But whereas I have incidently hapned of better observations concerning this Brehon law and Tanistry, diligently collected by Sir Iohn Davis, his Majesties At∣turney generall in Ireland, I hope I may, with his good leave, impart some of them to publicke knowledge in his owne words.

[ D] The severall countries or territories possessed by the Irishrie were in number 60. and upwards, and some being greater and some lesse, did in extent and scope of land contain two parts of the Kingdome at least: in every one of these countries there was a chiefe Lord or Captaine, and under him a Tanist, which was his successor apparent: both these were elected of the country, who commonly made choice of such as were most active, and had most swordmen and followers depending upon him. The chiefe Lord had certaine lands in Demesne, which were called his Loghtii, or mensall lands in Demesne, where he placed his principall officers, namely, his Brehon, his Marshall, his Cupbearer, his Physitian, his Surgeon, his Chronicler, his Rimer, and others: which offices and professions were hereditarie and peculiar to certaine septs and fa∣milies.

[ E]

Hee had also small rents of money, and Cowes, and customarie duties of Oate∣meale, Butter, and the like, out of the lands in the Countrie, except the lands of the Church, and such of his kinsmen and followers to whom he granted a speciall dis∣charge or freedome. Besides he had a generall tallage or cutting high or low, at his pleasure upon all the inheritance, which hee tooke commonly when he made warre either with his neighbours, or against the Crowne of England, or made a journey to the State, or gave any entertainment; so as the whole profits of the countrie were at his disposition when hee listed: and so made the inhabitants like the vil∣laines of England, upon whom their Lords had power Tallier Haut and Bas, as the [ F] phrase of our law is, whereupon the English call this kind of exaction by the name of cutting. This chiefe Lord had his Cosharies upon his tenants, that is, he and his would lie upon them untill they had eate up all their provisions; he would likewise imploy upon them his horsemen, his kernes, his horse boyes, his dogges boyes, and the like, to be fed and maintained by them, which kept the poore people in continuall slave∣rie and beggerie.

The Tanist had also a speciall portion of land, and certaine Chiefrie proper to the [ A] Tanist, and within the limits of his portion he had also his cuttings and his Coshiries: the rest of the land being distributed among severall septs, every sept had a Chiefe or Canfinie, as they called him, with a Tanist of that sept, both which were chosen by the chiefe Lord or Captaine of the countrie, and had likewise their severall portions and Chiefries. These Captainships or Chiefries were not partable, but were entire∣ly enjoyed by such as were elected thereunto.

All the rest of the lands, except the portions of the Cheifes and Tanists, descended in course of Gavelkind, and were partable among the Males onely; in which division the Bastards had their portions as well as the Legitimate. [ B]

For offences and matters criminall, none was so hainous or of so high a nature as that it was capitall, for treason against the chiefe Lord, and murder were fineable, the fine they called an Ericke, which was assessed by the Lord and his Brehons.

In case of treason the Lord had all the fine, in case of murder the Lord had one moitie, and the kindred of the partie slaine the other moitie: so as they never for∣feited their possessions or their lands for any offence. Howbeit their lands were sei∣sed by the Lord for their fines, untill the same were levied thereupon, and then resto∣red. Rape was finable in like sort, but theft deserved praise and reward, if the stealth were brought into the countrie; because the Lord had a share, and the countrie there∣by became the richer.

But the theft committed in the countrie and carried out, if the thiefe were appre∣hended before his friend made offer of his fine, hee was commonly punished with death. But the Lord in that case might take an Erick if he would.

Upon the stealth of any cattell, if the owner followed the tract (wherein the Irish are incredible cunning, insomuch as they will find the same by the bruising of a grasse in the summer time) if the party unto whose land the tract is brought cannot make it off to some other land, he is to answer the stealth to the owner. And this be∣ing an Irish law or custome, is at this day observed both by the English and Irish, the same being ratified by an act of Counsell in the Earle of Sussex his government, as fit and necessarie for that Kingdome. [ D]

The Brehons, assisted by certaine Scholars, who had learned many rules of the ci∣vill and Canon law, rather by tradition then by reading, gave judgement in all cau∣ses, and had the eleventh part of the thing adjudged for their fee, and the chiefe Lords Marshall did execution.

These are the principall rules and grounds of the Brehon law, which the makers of the Statutes of Kilkenny did not without cause call a lewd custome; for it was the cause of much lewdnesse and barbarisme. It gave countenance and encourage∣ment to theft, rape, and murther, it made all possessions uncertaine, whereby it came to passe that there was no building of houses, and townes, nor education of children in learning or civility, no exercise of trades, or handicrafts, no improvement or ma∣nuring [ E] of lands, no industry or vertue in use among them, but the people were bred in loosenesse and idlenesse, which hath beene the true cause of all the mischeifes and miseries in that Kingdome.

"Now forward, take with you the observations of the said Good: and thus much will I speake before hand for the man, that in nothing he shooteth at reproach, but aimeth all at truth, and speaketh onely of those uncivill and meere Irish, that lie shrowded in the utmost coasts, and have not as yet suited themselves with civill qualities and conditions.

And to speake in generall of them all, this Nation is strong of bodie, and pas∣sing nimble, stout and haughty in heart, for wit quicke, martiall, prodigall, and care∣lesse [ F] of their lives, enduring travell, cold and hunger, given to fleshly lust, kind and curteous to strangers, constant in love, in enmitie implacable, light of beliefe, gree∣die of glorie, impatient of abuse and injurie, and as hee said in old time, in all affecti∣ons most vehement and passionate:* 1.294 If they be bad, you shall no where meet with worse: if they be good, you can hardly find better.

[ A] Generally, they give unto their children when they come to holy baptisme profane names, adding alwaies somewhat to the name, taken either from some event, or an old wife, or else some colour, as red, white, blacke: or else from a disease, scab, and peeldnesse, or from one vice or other, as theefe, proud, &c. and albeit they be of all men most impatient of reproach, yet these noble men of theirs, even they that have the letter [O] prefixed to their names, disdaine not those additions. The name of the Parent, or any of the same kinred then living, it is not lawfull to give unto children: for they are perswaded that their death is hastened thereby. But when the father is dead, then the sonne assumeth his name, left the name should be lost: and if any Ancestour of that name were a redoubted [ B] warriour, the like prowesse and valour is expected from him. This opinion is encreased by their Poets, Bardes, or Rimers, who keepe the exploits of those ancient Progenitours recorded in writing, which they peece out with many high praises and fables devised of their owne braine; whereby these Rimers or Bards grow rich. For new wedded brides, and women in childbed thinke themselves discredited, if they bestow not upon one of these Praise-praters, the best garments they have. Mothers, after six daies that they be brought a bed, companie with their husbands afresh, and put forth their young babes to nource.

They that be of the more noble parentage shall have a number of nources repaire unto them streight waies from far, which make suit for the nourcing of the infant; and of these foster children they make more account than of their own which they beare. And although [ C] they are most intemperate, by reason of the distemperature of the aire, and the moisture both of the ground, and of their meates; in regard also that all law is exiled; and albeit they thinke it is a shame for themselves to give their owne children the breast, yet for this their nurcelings sake, both man and wife abstaine from carnall company together. And if they doe otherwise, they entertaine another nource under them at their owne charges. And nources there be among them as many well neere as there are young wenches for their ser∣vants: and to have the suckling of the little child, they count a sufficient reward for being naught of their bodies. Now if this infant fortune to bee sicke, they all to besprinckle it with the stalest urine they can get; and for a preservative against all misfortunes, they hang about the childrens neckes, not onely the beginning of Saint Iohns Gospell, but also a [ D] crooked naile taken out of an horses shooe, or else a piece of a Wolves skin. And for that purpose, as well nources as infants, weare girdles platted of womens haire. To their lovers also, it is knowne, they send bracelets finely wrought of these haires: whether their minde is herein of Venus girdle called Cestos, I wote not: The Foster-fathers take much more paines, bestow more goods by farre, and shew greater love unto their foster children than they doe to their owne children: From them, these children not so much by due claime of right receive, as by force wrest, even with taking stresses, and driving away booties, appa∣rell, maintenance for their pleasures, mony wherwith to buy them armour, yea and to spend in all kind of their lewdnesse; their dowries also and stockes of cattell. All those that have been nourced by the same woman, love one another more deerely, repose greater trust in [ E] them, than if they were their naturall whole brethren and sisters; insomuch as in compari∣son of these and for their sakes, they even hate their naturall brethren and sisters.

Be they reproved at any time by their own parents, they flie to these their foster-fathers, and being heartened by them, breake out oftentimes even unto open war against their said parents; taking instructions from them to all lewd and villanous prankes, they become most ungracious and desperate. Semblably, the nources traine up those maidens which they reare, to all obscenity and filthinesse. If any of these foster children chance to fall sicke, a man would not beleeve how quickly their nources heare of it, yea though they dwell many a mile off, how pensively they attend and watch by the sicke body night and day. To conclude, the greatest corruptions of Ireland, are thought to spring from these foster-fathers and [ F] nources, and from nought else.

That these Irish people are both of an hotter and moisture nature than other nations, we may well conjecture. And this we gather by their wonderfull soft skin: which doubtlesse commeth as well by the nature of the soile, as by certaine artificiall bathings and exercise that they use. By reason also of the same tendernesse of their muscles, they so excell in nim∣blenesse and flexibility of all parts of the body, as it is incredible. Given they are to idlenes

above all things: they reckon it the greatest riches to take no paine, and count it the most [ A] pleasure to enjoy liberty. Delighted they are above measure in musick, but especially in the harpe with wire-strings, which they warble upon with their nimble fingers most melodi∣ously. Doe any of them betake themselves to religion, a wonder it is to see how they morti∣fie and keepe their bodies under, with a devout kind of austerity, watching, praying, and making themselves leane with much fasting: so that it is no marvell which is written of their monkes in the age afore going. Yea the very women and young maidens fast duely upon every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the whole yeere. Some of them also fast upon Saint Katharines festivall day: and this they faile not to doe upon Christmas day, if it so fall out, even when they be most grievously sicke. Some make this to bee the cause for [ B] maidens, that they may be sped with good husbands; for wives, that they may change for a better marriage, either by the death of their husbands, or by forsaking them, or at leastwise by alteration of their conditions. But they that have once given themselves over to lewd∣nesse, are more lewd than lewdnesse it selfe. Their garments they die with the barkes of trees, that English men name Alders: they use also Elder-berries to colour their wooll yellow. With the boughes, barke and leaves of the poplar tree bruised and stamped, they staine their large wide shirts with a saffran colour, which now are almost out of use, and adding thereunto the rine of the wild Arbut tree, salt, together with saffran. And whatso∣ever they die, they doe not so much boile it long over the fire, as drench and steepe the same for certaine daies together among other things in cold urine of man or woman, that the [ C] yellow colour may be more durable.

They account it no shame or infamie to commit robberies, which they practise every where with exceeding cruelty. When they goe to rob, they poure out their prayers to God, That they may meet with a booty: and they suppose, that a cheat or booty is sent unto them from God as his gift: neither are they perswaded, that either violence, or rapine, or manslaughter displeaseth God: for in no wise would he presens unto them this opportuni∣tie, if it were a sinne; nay a sin it were if they did not lay hold upon the said opportunitie. You shall heare these Cut-throats and Incendiaries come out with these words, God is mercifull, and will not suffer the price of his blood to be of no eff••ct in me. More∣over, they say, that they walke in their fathers steps; that this maner of life was left unto [ D] them: also, that it were a disparagement of their nobility, if they would get their living by handie labour, and forbeare committing such facts. As they are setting forth to a boot∣haling, or to doe any other businesse, they marke whom they meet first in the morning: if they speed well, they lay for to meet with him oft: if otherwise, they heedfully avoid him. To sleepe and snore in a most stormie night, and not to dispatch a very long way by night on foot, nor to adventure upon any danger whatsoever in spoiling and robbing, they take to be tokens of a base and abject minde.

Of late daies, they spare neither Churches nor hallowed places, but thence also they fill their hands with spoile: yea and sometimes they set them on fire, and kill the men that there lie hidden: And the cause hereof, is the most filthy life of their Priests, who of [ E] Churches make profane houses, and keepe harlots, who follow them whithersoever they goe; but when they are cast off, seeke cunning devises to doe mischiefe by poisons. The Priests Lemans and their bastards abide within the circuit of a Church, drinke untill they be drunke, lie together, shed blood, and keepe up their cattell there.

Among those wild Irish, there is neither divine service, nor any forme of Chappell but outwardly no Altars at all, or else they be filthily polluted: the image of the Rood or Crosse defaced, if there be any at all. The sacred vestiments are so foule and nasty that they would make one to cast up his stomacke: The alter portable, without any crosses emprinted upon it, and by some abuse or other polluted: The Missal or Masse booke all torne, and bereft of the Canon: yet the same is tendred to all oathes and perjuries; the Chalice of lead, with∣out [ F] a cover to it, the samll vessels for wine made of a horne. The Priests mind nothing but gathering of goods and getting of children.

The Parsons play the Vicars, and that of many Parishes together: they make it great shew of the Canon-Law, but have never a jot of learning.

They have their children to succeed them in their Churches, for whose illegitimation they

[ A] are dispenced with. These will not take the order of Priest-hood, but commit the charge to the Curates without any stipend, that they may live by the booke, that is, upon some small gift or oblation at the baptisme, inunction, and buriall, wherewith God wot, they live most bare and miserable.

These Priests sonnes that follow not their studies, prove for the most part notorious theeves. For they that carry the name of Mac-Decan, Mac-Pherson, Mac-O••pac, that is, the Deanes or Deacons son, the Parsons son, and the Bishops sonne, are the strong∣est theeves that be, and the more able by their Parents liberality to raise a power of unru∣ly rebels; and the rather, because following their fathers steps, they maintaine hospitality. [ B] As for the daughters of these Priests, if their fathers be living, they are set forth with good portions, in case they wed: but if their fathers be dead, either they begge or prostitute their bodies.

At every third word tis ordinary with them to lash out an oath, namely, by the Trinity, by God, by S. Patrick, by S. Brigid, by their Baptism, by Faith, by the Church, by my God-fathers hand, and by thy hand. And albeit by these they sweare, with the sacred Bi∣ble or Missal laid most religiously upon their bare heads, yea and be forsworne, yet if one say they stand in danger of damnation for perjury, you shall heare them straightwaies cry aloud, The Lord is mercifull, and will not suffer the price of his blood shed for me, to be of no effect in me. Never shall I goe to hell, repent I or repent I not. But for the [ C] performance of promise, and that a man may beleeve them, these three points with them be of greatest weight to bind them. First, if one sweare at the altar, touching the booke lying open, and the same laid on the crown of his head. Secondly, if he take to record some Saint, whose crooked staffe or bell he toucheth and kisseth. Thirdly, if he sweare by the hand of an Earle, or of his owne Lord, or some mighty person: for then, if he be convict of perjury by the two former, he incurreth infamy; but in case hee be forsworne by the third, the said mighty man will wring from him perforce a great summe of mony, and a number of Cowes; as if by that perjury the greatest abuse and injury that might be were offered unto his name. For cowes are their only wealth, and of greatest esteeme. Touching which cattell, this seemeth not unworthy the observation.

[ D] Most certain it is (as hee writeth) that cowes in Ireland give no milke, unlesse their own calfe be set by their side alive, or else the skin of the dead calfe staffed with straw, so as it may carry the resemblance of a live one, for in that skin they acknowledge the sent, as it were, of their owne wombe. If a cow goe dry or hold up their milke, they send for a witch, who by herbes may cause her to cast her love upon another cowes calfe, that so she may give downe her milke.

Town-dwellers seldome make any contract of marriage with them of the country, and these passe their promise not for present, but for the future time: or else give assent without any deliberation. Whence it is, that for every light falling out they part asunder, the hus∣band to another woman, the wife to another husband; neither is it ever knowne for cer∣tainty [ E] whether their contracts have been true or false, before they give up their last gaspe. Hence rise contentions about the possession of lands, hence grow robberies, depredations, manslaughters, and deadly hatred. The women that are cast off goe to witches for counsell, who are thought verily to bring upon the former husband, or his new married wife, either barrennesse or impotency in the act of generation, or else most dangerous diseases. For all of them are marvellously prone to incest, and nothing is there so common as divorces un∣der pretence of conscience. The women as well as the men make great account of the haire or glibbes of their heads, especially if they be of a golden colour, and long withall: for they shew and lay them out platted to the full length in a bravery, and suffer them when they are finely and trimly curled to hang downe: when in the meane time they wrap in foldes and [ F] rolls about their head many ells of the finest linnen or sendall. This kinde of coronet or head-tire they all weare that are able to get it, after their child-birth, whether it bee in wedlo••ke, or by playing the whores.

To these may be added a number of superstitions. I cannot tell whether the wilder sort of the Irishry yeeld divine honour unto the Moone; for when they see her first after the

change, commonly they bow the knee, and say over the Lords prayer, and so soone as they [ A] have made an end, they speake unto the Moone with a loud voice in this manner: Leave us as whole and sound as thou hast found us. They take unto them Wolves to be their God∣sibs, whom they tearme Chari Christ, praying for them and wishing them well, and so they are not afraid to be hurt by them. The shoulder blade bone of a sheep, when the flesh is cleane taken from it, they use to looke through, and thereby foretell of some c••rse shortly to be carried out of that house, if they spie any darke or duskish spot in it. They take her for a wicked woman and a witch, what ever she be, that commeth to fetch fire from them on May day (neither will they give any fire then, but unto a sicke body, and that with a curse): for because they thinke the same woman will the next Summer steale away all [ B] their butter. If they finde an hare amongst their heards of cattell on the said May day, they kill her, for they suppose shee is some old trot that would filch away their butter. They are of opinion, that their butter if it be stollen will soone after bee restored againe, in case they take away some of the thatch that hangeth over the doore of the house, and cast it into the fire. And upon these Calends, or first day of May, they fully beleeve that to set a greene bough of a tree before their houses, will cause them to have great abundance of milke all summer long.

In their townes, when any Magistrate entreth first upon his office, the Wives along the streets, and the Maidens out of windowes, bestrew them and their followers with wheat and salt. And before they sow their seed in the corne field, the Goodwife or Mistresse of the [ C] house sendeth salt to the said field. That the Kites may not swoupe away their chickens, they hang up in some place of the house-roofe the egge-shels out of which the said chic∣kens were hatched. To rubbe their horse heeles, or to curry their bodies with a curry-combe, or to gather grasse to meat them with, it is not lawfull upon a Satur∣day; whereas they will not sticke to doe all this upon other dayes, be they never so high and festivall.

If they never give fire out of the house unto their neighbours, they are perswaded their horses shall live the longer, and continue sound.

If the owners of horses eat egges, they must looke unto it that they be even in number, o∣therwise their horses will be in danger. Horse-breakers and horse-keepers are forbidden [ D] to eat egges. A custome there is also among them, that horsemen after they have eaten egges doe wash their hands. When an horse is dead, they hang up his feet and legges in the house, yea their very hoofes are esteemed as an hallowed and sacred relique.

In no case must you praise an horse or any other beast, untill you say, God save him, or unlesse you spit upon him. If any harme befall the horse within three dayes after, they seeke him out that praised him, that he may mumble the Lords Prayer in his right eare. They thinke there bee some that bewitch their horses with looking upon them: and then they use the helpe of some old hagges, who saying a few Prayers with a loud voice, make them well againe. There is a certaine small worme breeding in their horses feet, which creeping on still by little and little, breedeth a great many of the same kinde, and cor∣rupteth [ E] the body: Against this worme they send for a wise woman, who is brought to the horse on two severall Mondaies, and one Thursday. She breatheth upon the place where the worme lieth; and after shee hath rehearsed a charme, the horse recovereth. This charme they teach many for a piece of money, making them to sweare that they will not reveale it to any body.

Against all maladies and mischiefes whatsoever, the women have effectuall enchant∣ments or charmes, as they suppose, divided and parted amongst them, each one her severall enchantment, and the same of divers forces; unto whom every man, according as his mis∣chance requireth, speedeth himselfe for helpe. They say alwaies both before and after their charmes, a Pater Noster and an Ave Maria. [ F]

When any man hath caught a fall upon the ground, forthwith hee starteth up againe on his feet, and turneth himselfe round three times toward his right hand, with his sword, skeine, or knife hee diggeth into the earth, and fetcheth up a turfe, for that, they say, the earth doth yeeld a spirit: and if within some two or three

[ A] daies he fell sick, there is sent a woman skilfull in that kind unto the said place, and there she saith on this wise. I call thee P. from the East and West, South and North, from the forrests, woods, rivers, meeres, the wilde wood-fayries, white, red, black, &c. and with∣all, bolteth out certaine short praiers: then returneth she home unto the sicke party, to try whether it be the disease called Esane, which they are of opinion is sent by the Fairies: and whistereth a certaine odde praier with a Pater Noster into his eare, putteth some coals into a pot full of fair water, and so giveth more certain judgment of the disease, than ma∣ny of our Physicians can.

Their warre-fare consisteth of horsemen, of souldiours set in the rere-guard, whom they [ B] terme Galloglasses,* 1.295 who fight with most keen hatchets, and of light armed footmen called Kernes, whose service is with darts and skeanes. To give an acclamation and shout unto every footman or horseman as he goeth out of the gate, is counted lucky and fortunate: he who hath no such applause is thought to have some mischeife portended unto him. In war they use the bagpipe in stead of a trumpet; they carry about them Amulets, they recite cer∣tain praiers, & in joining battel they crie as loud as possible they can, Pharroh (I suppose this to be that military Barritus which Ammianus speaketh of) with this perswasion,* 1.296 that he who crieth not as loud as the rest, shall have this accident befall unto him, suddenly to bee taken up from the ground, and carried, as it were flying in the aire (avoiding ever after the sight of men) into a certaine vale in Kerry, as I have said before.

Such as visite and sit by one that lieth sicke in bed, never speake word of God, nor of the [ C] salvation of his soul, ne yet of making his will, but all to put him in hope of his recovering: If any one call for the sacrament, him they count past hope and recovery. The wives passe not for any will-making, because it is grown now to be a common custome, that a third part of the goods shall bee given unto them, and the rest to bee divided by even portions among the children; saving that when they come to enter upon the inheritance▪ be that is mightiest carrieth away the best share. For he that is strongest, be he unkle or nephew, most times sei∣zeth upon the inheritance, and shutteth the children out of all. When one lieth ready to die, before he is quite gone, certaine women, hired of purpose to lament, standing in the mee∣ting of crosse high-wayes, and holding their hands all abroad, call unto him with certain out-cries fitted for the nonce, and goe about to stay his soule, as it laboureth to get forth [ D] of the bodie, by reckoning up the commodities that he enjoyeth of wordly goods, of wives, of beauty, fame, kinsfolke, friends, and horses; and demanding of him why he will depart? and whither? and to whom? yea they expostulate with his soule, objecting that she is unthankfull. At length they piteously make moane, and say, that the soule now ready to leave the body is going away to these kinde of haggish women that appeare by night and in darknesse: but after it is departed once out of the body, they keepe a mourning and wai∣ling for it, with loud howling and clapping of their hands together. Now they follow the corps when it goes to buriall with such a peale of out-cries, that a man would thinke the quicke as well as the dead past all recoverie. In these wailings and lamentations the nurses, daughters and concubines make the greatest adoe, and are most vehement. Nei∣ther [ E] doe they mourne with lesse sorrow and heavinesse for those that are slaine in battaile, than such as die of sicknesse: although they affirme, that they have an easier death who lose their lives in fighting in the field, or in robbing. Yet notwithstanding they raile upon their enemies with most spitefull words, and continue for a long time deadly hatred a∣gainst all of that sept and kinred.

They suppose that the soules of such as are deceased goe into the company of certaine men, famous in those places, touching whom they retaine still fables and songs, as of Giants, Fin-Mac-Huyle, Osker Mac-Oshin, and they say that by illusion they often times doe see such.

As for their meats,* 1.297 they feed willingly upon herbs, and watercresses especially, up∣on [ F] mushromes, shamroots, and roots: so that Strabo not without good cause said they were 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. Eaters of herbes, for which in some copies is falsly read 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 i. Great Eaters. They delight also in butter tempered with oate-meale, in milke, whey, beefe-broth, and flesh oftentimes without any bread at all. As for the corne

that they have, they lay it up for their horses provender, for whom verily they are es∣pecially [ A] carefull. When they be hunger bitten in time of dearth, they disdaine not to devoure raw flesh, after they have pressed out the blood thereof: and for to concoct and digest it, they swill in and poure down the throat Uskebah draught after draught. They let their kine blood also, which when it is growne to a gelly, and strewed over with butter, they eat with good appetite.

They goe for the most part bare headed, unlesse it bee when they put on an head∣piece. The haire of their head they weare long, and nothing set they greater store by than the glibbes or tresses of their haires; and to have the same plucked or twitch∣ed, they take it for a contumelious indignitie. They use linnen shirts, and those verily [ B] exceeding large, with wide sleeves, and hanging side downe to their very knees, which they were wont to staine with saffron. Little Jackets they have of woollen, and those very short: breeches most plaine and close to their thighes. But they cast over these their mantles or shagge rugges, which Isidore seemeth to call Heteromallae, with a deepe fringed pur••le, and the same daintily set out with sundrie colours; within which they lappe themselves in the night, and sweetly sleepe on the very ground. Such also doe the women cast over the side garment that they weare downe to the foot, and with elnes (as I said) of Sendall rolled up in wreathes, they rather load than adorne their heads; like as they doe their neckes with chaines and carkaneth, their armes also with bracelets. These are the manners of the [ C] wild Irish, out of our Author: In the rest, for the most part all that inhabite the Eng∣lish Pale (as they tearme it) there is no point of curtesie and civilitie wanting: for which they are beholden to the English conquest: and for much more might the whole Island bee beholden unto it, in case upon a certaine peevish and obstinate love they beare unto their owne country fashions, they had not stopped up their eares and shut up their hearts against better governance. For the Irishry are so stifly settled in observing of the old rites of their country, that not onely they cannot be withdrawne from them, but also are able easily to draw the English unto the same (so prone is mans nature to entertain the worst) that one would not beleeve in how short a time some English among [ D] them degenerate and grow out of kinde.

[ E] [ F]

Notes

• * 1.1

  The British sea▪
• * 1.2

  Lib. Hexame∣ron. cap. 3.
• * 1.3

  British sea in times past un∣knowne.
• * 1.4

  Iul. Firmicus.
• * 1.5

  The winde Caurus.
• * 1.6

  The old twig∣gen or wicker ships of the Britans.
• * 1.7

  Pearles.
• * 1.8

  Musculae.
• * 1.9

  Vetu••tior Venustior.
• * 1.10

  Julius Solinus.
• * 1.11

  Lib. 2. c. 4.
• * 1.12

  The Ocean Vergivian.
• * 1.13

  Libro magnae constructionis.
• * 1.14

  Bannomanna.
• * 1.15

  The holy I∣land.

  Orae Maritimae.
• * 1.16

  Ogygia. In his book De macu∣la in Luna, that is, Of the spot in the Moone.
• * 1.17

  Isle Cerne.
• * 1.18

  Hibernia cal∣led Scotia.
• * 1.19

  The state of Ireland.
• * 1.20

  Giral. Cam∣brensis in To∣pographia Hi∣bernia.
• * 1.21

  Cattell.
• * 1.22

  Irish mantles and rugges. Horses called Hobbies. Haukes.
• * 1.23

  Diseases.
• * 1.24

  Uskebah.
• * 1.25

  Why grapes are not ripe in Britaine.
• * 1.26

  Ireland why called Ogy∣gia.
• * 1.27

  Britans the first inhabi∣tants of Ire∣land. Little Britain.
• * 1.28

  Caesarea.
• * 1.29

  Romane Conquests.
• * 1.30

  Irishmen out of Spaine. In other copies Tholanus.
• * 1.31

  Anno Christi 431. Palladius. Vincent. l. 9. c. 7
• * 1.32

  Monks of Ire∣land holy men and learned.
• * 1.33

  Contempt of riches.
• * 1.34

  English Saxons seeme to have had their let∣ters and wri∣ting from the Irish.
• * 1.35

  Arts and pietie sowed among nations in sun∣dry ages.
• * 1.36

  Oustmanni, who haply are those that Ta∣citus nameth Aestiones, and Egivardus Aisti.
• * 1.37

  Dermot Mac Morrog.
• * 1.38

  Richard Strongbow.
• * 1.39

  Henrie the se∣cond entreth Ireland.
• * 1.40

  Girald. Camb and a Manu∣script in the hands of Ba∣ron Houth.
• * 1.41

  The Vice-roies of Ireland.
• * 1.42

  Custodes, or Wardens.
• * 1.43

  The states of Ireland.
• * 1.44

  Parliamentum claus. anno 12. The Tribunals of Ireland.
• * 1.45

  Mareshall of Ireland.
• * 1.46

  Anno 9. R. Io∣hannis.
• * 1.47

  Division of Ireland.
• * 1.48

  Ecclesiasticall Jurisdiction.
• * 1.49

  Luceni.
• * 1.50

  Clan-Morys.
• * 1.51

  The river Dur.
• * 1.52

  Bishoprick of Ardart.
• * 1.53

  Dingle.
• * 1.54

  Smerwic.
• * 1.55

  Arthur Baron. Grey.
• * 1.56

  1583.
• * 1.57

  A ridiculous conceit.
• * 1.58

  Velabri.
• * 1.59

  1565.
• * 1.60

  Barons of Va∣lentia. Barle Clan-Ca••r.
• * 1.61

  Beare.
• * 1.62

  O Swilivant.
• * 1.63

  O Mahon.
• * 1.64

  Notium Pro∣montorium. The river I••r∣nus.
• * 1.65

  Earles of Des∣mond.
• * 1.66

  Vodiae a people.
• * 1.67

  Coriandi a peo∣ple.
• * 1.68

  Muskeray.
• * 1.69

  Carbray.
• * 1.70

  Spaniard lan∣ded in Ireland, and from thence driven.
• * 1.71

  Kerry-wher∣ry.
• * 1.72

  Vicount Bu∣tiphant.
• * 1.73

  Baron Roch Vicount Fermoy.
• * 1.74

  Yoghall.
• * 1.75

  The Kay.
• * 1.76

  The kingdome of Corke.
• * 1.77

  Lismor. Christian a Bi∣shop.
• * 1.78

  Ard-mor.
• * 1.79

  Dessee.
• * 1.80

  Dungarvan.
• * 1.81

  Poers Barons of Curragh∣more. Waterford.
• * 1.82

  Earle of Wa∣terford.
• * 1.83

  Steward of Ireland.
• * 1.84

  An. 28. H. 8.
• * 1.85

  Conilagh. Knoc-Patric.
• * 1.86

  Knight of the Valley. Anno 11. Reg. Eliz.
• * 1.87

  Limirick.
• * 1.88

  Clan-William.
• * 1.89

  Baron of Ca∣stle Conell.
• * 1.90

  Clan-Gibbon.
• * 1.91

  13. Elizab. Fitz-Geralds.
• * 1.92

  Emely.
• * 1.93

  The lower Os∣sery.
• * 1.94

  The county of Holy Crosse of Tipperary. Wood of the Crosse.
• * 1.95

  Cassile.
• * 1.96

  Baron de Ca∣hir.
• * 1.97

  Clomell.
• * 1.98

  Earle of Ca∣ricke. Anno 9. Ed. 2.
• * 1.99

  Ormond.
• * 1.100

  Butlers Earles of Ormond. Anno 2. Ed. 3.
• * 1.101

  Earle of Tip∣perary.
• * 1.102

  Wolf-men.
• * 1.103

  The disease Lycanthropia.
• * 1.104

  County of Kil∣kenny.
• * 1.105

  Upper Ossery. Baron of upper Ossery.
• * 1.106

  Thomas Towne.
• * 1.107

  Callan.
• * 1.108

  Inis Teog.
• * 1.109

  The Statute of Absenties.
• * 1.110

  Barony Ydron.
• * 1.111

  Cavanaghs.
• * 1.112

  O More. Out of a pam∣phlet of Pa∣trick Finglas.
• * 1.113

  Hook-Tower.
• * 1.114

  Lease.
• * 1.115

  Mary Burgh.
• * 1.116

  Donemaws.
• * 1.117

  Rheba.
• * 1.118

  Baronet of Rheban.
• * 1.119

  Offaly.
• * 1.120

  Philips towne.
• * 1.121

  Kildar. S. Brigid.
• * 1.122

  Ch. 9. Ed. 2. N. 12.
• * 1.123

  Barons Fitz-Eustace. Pat. 2. Ed. 4.
• * 1.124

  Carausius.
• * 1.125

  Tintern Mo∣nastery.
• * 1.126

  Hieron a Pro∣montory.
• * 1.127

  Cauci.
• * 1.128

  O Tooles. O Birns.
• * 1.129

  Arklo.
• * 1.130

  Glynnes.
• * 1.131

  Wicklo lately made a county, 1606.
• * 1.132

  The Grounds.
• * 1.133

  Old-Court.
• * 1.134

  Poers Court.
• * 1.135

  Liffy river, which Girald calleth Aven-Liff.
• * 1.136

  That is, the river L••ff.
• * 1.137

  Eblana. Dublin.
• * 1.138

  Who also is named Abloi∣cus. Aulafus and Olavus.
• * 1.139

  Ioscelin of Furnes in the life of S. Pa∣tricke. Lib. 2. verum Anglicar. c. 26.
• * 1.140

  Kaies.
• * 1.141

  Upon Auso∣nius l. 2. c. 22.
• * 1.142

  Dammensis.
• * 1.143

  All-Hallowes. An University begun 1591. 13. May was the foundation laid, 1593. Scholars were first admitted.
• * 1.144

  1320. A Manuscript of Baron Hoult.
• * 1.145

  Thomas Court.
• * 1.146

  Statut. Parli. 18. H. 8. c. 15.
• * 1.147

  Tole-stale.
• * 1.148

  Marquesse of Dublin.
• * 1.149

  Pr. p. Pat. anno 9. Rich. 2. m. 1.
• * 1.150

  Saint Laurence Barons of Houth.
• * 1.151

  Malchid.
• * 1.152

  Fingall.
• * 1.153

  Th. Stukely.
• * 1.154

  Marquesse of Leinster.
• * 1.155

  Laberus.
• * 1.156

  Barnwell. Baron Trimlet stoun.
• * 1.157

  Baron Slane.
• * 1.158

  Navan. Baronet of Na∣van.
• * 1.159

  Bishop of Meth.
• * 1.160

  Molingar.
• * 1.161

  Barons Delvin.
• * 1.162

  Nogents.
• * 1.163

  Lords of Meth.
• * 1.164

  Genevile.
• * 1.165

  Constables of Ireland.
• * 1.166

  Anale.
• * 1.167

  O-Pharoll.
• * 1.168

  River Senus or Sineus. Shannin and Shannon.
• * 1.169

  Macolicum. Malc.
• * 1.170

  Rigia.
• * 1.171

  Which others call Mare Bre∣dunicum.
• * 1.172

  Nagnatae. Gangani. Concani. Auteri.
• * 1.173

  Killaloe.
• * 1.174

  Catarracta.
• * 1.175

  Bunraty.
• * 1.176

  Clare.
• * 1.177

  Earles of Two∣mond.
• * 1.178

  Ilands of Ar∣ran.
• * 1.179

  Bed. l. 4. c. 4. Ecclesiast. hist.
• * 1.180

  Logh-Corbes.
• * 1.181

  Gallwey.
• * 1.182

  The battell of Knoctoe. 1516.
• * 1.183

  Aterith.
• * 1.184

  Birminghams.
• * 1.185

  Clan-Ricard. Earles of Clan-Ricard.
• * 1.186

  Archbishop∣rick of Toam, or Tuen.
• * 1.187

  Maio.
• * 1.188

  Killaley. Bishoprick of Killaley.
• * 1.189

  Lib 4. cop. 4.
• * 1.190

  Logh-Mesk.
• * 1.191

  Galloglasses.
• * 1.192

  Mac-William who also is called Mac-William Eughter. Cuttings, Coyne, Live∣rey, &c. Cause of Re∣bellions in Ireland. Richard Bingham.
• * 1.193

  Nagnata.
• * 1.194

  Diploma l. 2. c. 6 Girald. Cambren. de▪ expugnatio. Hibern p. 787.
• * 1.195

  Curlew hills.
• * 1.196

  Barony of Boyle.
• * 1.197

  Balin Tober.
• * 1.198

  Rog. Hoveden. Anno 1175. pag. 312.
• * 1.199

  John Perot Lord Deputy. 1585.
• * 1.200

  Uriel, in Latin Urgalia.
• * 1.201

  Tredagh.
• * 1.202

  Mellifont Ab∣bey.
• * 1.203

  Dundalk.
• * 1.204

  Carlingford.
• * 1.205

  Birmingham, who also is called Brimi∣cham.
• * 1.206

  Earle of Louth.
• * 1.207

  Baron Louth.
• * 1.208

  East Breany.
• * 1.209

  O Reily.
• * 1.210

  Kilmore Bi∣shopricke.
• * 1.211

  Poore Bishops.
• * 1.212

  Lough-Ern.
• * 1.213

  Bal-tarbet.
• * 1.214

  Belek.
• * 1.215

  Mac-Mahon.
• * 1.216

  Fitz-Urse.
• * 1.217

  1590.
• * 1.218

  Charles Blunt L. Mont-joy.
• * 1.219

  Fewes.
• * 1.220

  Orry.
• * 1.221

  Mont-Norris.
• * 1.222

  Armach.
• * 1.223

  S. Patricke. Vita Patricii. Marianus Scotus.
• * 1.224

  The Irish sha∣ving.
• * 1.225

  See Bed. l. 5. c. 22.
• * 1.226

  S. Bernard in the life of Ma∣lachy.
• * 1.227

  Lib. 1. Ceremo∣niar sacrar. Sect. 14.
• * 1.228

  Isanium the Promontory.
• * 1.229

  Dunum. Downe.
• * 1.230

  Saint Patricks Sepulcher.
• * 1.231

  Robert de Monts, de Im∣mutatione Or∣dinis Monacho∣••um.
• * 1.232

  Banchor Abbay.
• * 1.233

  Pelagius the Arch-heretick.
• * 1.234

  In the life of Malachias.
• * 1.235

  Bishoprick of Coner.
• * 1.236

  Savage.
• * 1.237

  Upper Clane-Boy.
• * 1.238

  Knoc-Fergus.
• * 1.239

  Nether Clane-Boy.
• * 1.240

  Isle of Magie.
• * 1.241

  Glinnes.
• * 1.242

  Bissets.
• * 1.243

  James Mac-Conell.
• * 1.244

  The Rowt. Mac-Guilly. Surley Boy. Chairly Boy.
• * 1.245

  Donluse,
• * 1.246

  River Ban.
• * 1.247

  Glan-Colkein.
• * 1.248

  Salmons.
• * 1.249

  O-Cahan.
• * 1.250

  Uraights. The election of O-Neal.
• * 1.251

  Scottish Ilan∣ders.
• * 1.252

  Upper Tit-Oen.
• * 1.253

  Bishopricke of Cloghter. Dunganon. Baron of Dun∣ganon.
• * 1.254

  Fort of Black-water.
• * 1.255

  Patricks Pur∣gatory.
• * 1.256

  Regia. Reglis.
• * 1.257

  Derry.
• * 1.258

  Robogdii.
• * 1.259

  Robogdium Promontory.
• * 1.260

  Vennicnii.
• * 1.261

  River Vidua. Boreum Pro∣montory.
• * 1.262

  Sligah. ••
• * 1.263

  Donegall.
• * 1.264

  O-donell.
• * 1.265

  Scoti.
• * 1.266

  In the life of S. Patrick.
• * 1.267

  Earles of Ul∣ster.
• * 1.268

  An. 7. Ioannis.
• * 1.269

  See pag. 624. and 725.
• * 1.270

  Ireland negle∣cted.
• * 1.271

  Scoto-Chroni∣con lib. 12. cap. 26.
• * 1.272

  Shan or John O Neale.
• * 1.273

  Thomas Earle of Sussex Lord Deputy.
• * 1.274

  Sir Henry Sid∣ney Lord De∣puty.
• * 1.275

  1565.
• * 1.276

  1567.
• * 1.277

  Hugh O-Neal Earle of Tir-Oen.
• * 1.278

  1588.
• * 1.279

  1595. Die 12. Iunii.
• * 1.280

  Lord Generall of the Army.
• * 1.281

  Baron Bu∣rough, Lord Deputie, 1597.
• * 1.282

  1598.
• * 1.283

  Robert Earle of Essex Lord Lievtenant.
• * 1.284

  1599.
• * 1.285

  8 September 1599.
• * 1.286

  28. Septemb. 1599.
• * 1.287

  Charles Blunt Lord Deputy. 1600.
• * 1.288

  The manners of the Irishry, or wild Irish.
• * 1.289

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, but in the Epitome 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that is, feeding up∣on herbes and weeds.
• * 1.290

  O prefixed to the names of the Noblest men in Ireland, by way of ex∣cellency.
• * 1.291

  Brehons.
• * 1.292

  Profession•• hereditary.
• * 1.293

  Tanistry.
• * 1.294

  Girald. Cam∣bren.
• * 1.295

  Galloglasses. Kernes.
• * 1.296

  Barritus.
• * 1.297

  Water-cresses. Shamroots.