CHAP. XVI. Of Italy, and of Mares both Man and Horse.

The Ausonians first inhabited Italy, be∣ing Natives of the place. They say that in old time a man lived there named Mares, before like a Man, behind like a Horse, his name signifying as much as Hippomiges in Greek, Half-horse. My opinion is, that he first back'd and managed a Horse; whence he was believed to have both Natures. They fable that he lived a hundred twenty three years; and that he died thrice, and was restored thrice to life▪ which I con∣ceive incredible. They say that more seve∣ral Page  180 Nations inhabited Italy then any other Land, by reason of the temperateness of the Country and goodness of the Soil, it being well watered, fruitful, and full of Ri∣vers, and having all along convenient Ha∣vens to harbour Ships. Moreover, the hu∣manity and civility of the Inhabitants allu∣red many to remove thither. And that there were in Italy one thousand one hundred and ninety seven Cities.