soever the tendernesse of women doth require a
passive course of life, under the shelter of a safe
roof, rather then in the bleak storms of active
endeavour; yet there have been some Vira∣goes,
that have over-topped the pride of men in
points of war: amongst whom, Semiramis
may lead the rest; together with Tomyris, Cy∣rus
Mistresse by conquest. As also Zen••bia,
that subdued the Persians; and Helena, Queen
of the Russes.
Besides other noble spirits, that could an∣swer
such as told them news of the death of
their sons in battell, That they had brought
them into the world for that onely purpose.
Which do prove, as well a reall, as a poten∣tiall
aptness of that Sex, to the use and practice
of Armes.
And if any man (as unwilling to affoord
them so much worth) will know wherein they
avail the fortune of a War, he may take notice,
that even in expeditions (wherein they are most
subject to exceptions) they alwaies give accep∣table
assistances to their Husbands, both in their
provisions, and otherwise; and are such Com∣panions,
as can hardly be left at home, without
danger of greater hazard.
But in places besieged, women do not onely
affoord hair to make ropes, if need require (as it
fell out in this siege) but are able to cast pieces of
Mill-stones upon the Enemy, with better fortune
sometimes then any other man: and have there∣by
slain the Generall, to the raising of the siege,
and saving of the Citie.
But to take instances of later times: It is not
to be forgotten, that when the Arch-Duke
Matthias (after the death of Count Mans∣field
commanded the Christian Army, at the
siege of Strigonium; while the Turks, within
the Castle, were making works for a retreat, the
women (in the mean time) made good the
breaches; and there bestowed such store of
Wild-fire, that the Italian Squadrons (com∣manded
by Aldobrandine) being joyned pol∣dron
to poldron, to presse into the breach, seemed
all of a fire at once, and were forced to fall off
with great terrour and confusion.