The life and death of Alexander the Great, King of Macedon in ten books / by Curtius Rufus ... done into English by the same hand that translated the last volume of The holy court.

THE FOURTH BOOK OF QƲINTƲS CƲRTIƲS. (Book 4)

Of the Acts of Alexander the Great, King of Ma∣cedon. (Book 4)

DArius, who a little before was Lord of so great an Army, and who came unto the Field car∣ried aloft upon his Chariot, more like to Triumph then to Fight, fl••d by the places then waste and de∣s••rt, which he before had filled with his infinite numbers of Men of War: There were but few that followed him; for neither they fled all one way, nor such as followed, could keep pace with him that so often changed Hors••s. At length he came to Ʋ••chae, where he was received of ••our thou∣sand Greeks, who conducted him to the River of Euphrates; thinking all those his Countri••s lost, in the which by his speed he could not prevent the com••ng of Alexander. Parmenio was appointed Go∣vernour of Syria, and to be the Keeper of the Treasure and prisoners which he took at Damascus. The Syrians could not at the first bear the new Go∣vernment, because they had not yet felt the Scourge

of the Wars; but as they revolted, they were straightway subdued, performing all that they were appointed to do. The Isle of Arade was yielded to Alexander, whereof Strato was King, that had in subjection all the Sea-coast, with divers of the Island-Countries; who being received into trust, Alexander marched with his Army into the City of Marathon. There he received Letters from Darius, that put him into great choler, because they were so arrogantly written. The special point that moved Alexander was, for that Darius writing himself King, did not vouchsafe to give him that Title, but did write ra∣ther by way of Commandment, then of Request; proffering for the Ransom of his Wife and Children, so much money as Macedon could receive: For the Government of the Empire (he said) he put it to his choice, to try it by the Sword if he list; but if he would be better advised, he willed him to be content with his own Inheritance, and he would joyn in Amity with him, and become his Friend; in which point he was ready to enter into Treaty with him. Alexander did write to him again, after this manner:

Darius, whose Name thou ownest, wrought hereto∣fore great destruction upon the Greeks inhabiting the Coast of Helle••pont, and upon the Greek Colonies in Ioni••, which are Greek Cities; and passed from thence to the Sea with a great Army, to make War against Greece and Macedon: And also King Xerxes, thy Predecessor, came to subdue us with infinite numbers, which being vanquished in a Battel on the Sea, left not∣withstanding Mardonius behinde him in Greece, to destroy their Cities, and burn their Countries: It is

manifest besides, that Philip my Father was slain by such as were corrupted thereunto with your money. You un∣dertake always unjust Wars; and being clad in Arms, go about, for all that, to circumvent men with Treason; as thou of late, having such a number of men in thy Ar∣my, didst attempt my death with the promise of a 1000 Talents. I am not therefore the beginner of the Wars, but only do repel such injuries as are offered me; in doing whereof, through the help of the gods (who favour alway the right) I have brought the greater part of A∣sia under my subjection; and having overcome thee in Battel by force of Arms, there is no cause that I should grant thee any thing, because thou hast not observed to∣wards me the Law of Arms: yet if thou wilt come and submit thy self, I promise thee that I will deliver both thy Mother, Wife and Children; for I both know how to get the Victory, and how to use such as I Overcome. But if thou fearest to commit thy self to us, I will give thee safe Conduct to come freely. As for the rest, when thou writest to me, remember that thou writest not only to a King, but also unto him that is thy King.

He sent this Letter by Thersipus, and marched from thence into Ph••nicia, where the City of Biblon was yielded unto him; and so came unto Sydon, which was a City of great Magnificence, by reason of the Antiquity and Fame of the Builders: The same was under the Dominion of Strato, and sup∣ported by the power of Darius; who yielding more by the constraint of the people, then of his own good will, was thought unworthy to Reign there. Alexander made a Grant to Ephestion, that he should make such a one King, whom the Sydons thought most worthy of that Honour. There were divers

Noble young men in that City that had familiarity with Ephestion, of whom he thought to have chosen one King; but they refused his offer, affirming, that none might enjoy that Dignity, except he were de∣scended of the Blood Royal. Ephestion wondered at the magnanimity that was in them, in despising the thing that others sought for by Sword and Fire, and said, Continue you still in that vertuous minde, who are the first that have understanding, how much better it is to refuse, then to receive a Kingdom: Chuse you therefore such a one of the Blood Royal, that may remember he hath received the Rule at your hands. But when they saw divers gaping for it, and for the greediness they had to Reign, they fell to flat∣tering of such as were near to Alexander; they re∣solved, that there was none more fit for that Dig∣nity then one Abdolominus, who being of the An∣cient Blood of the Kings, for poverty was infor∣ced to dwell in a small Graunge without the City: His honesty was the cause of his poverty (as it is to many other) and being exercised in his daily la∣bour, he heard no noyse of the Wars that troubled all Asia. They, of whom we spake before, came into his Garden with Garments to apparel him like a King, and found him weeding of his ground, whom they saluted King, and said, You must make exchange of the vileness of your apparel, with these rich Ro••es we here present you: Wash thy body that is now covered with Dust, and take upon thee the Heart of a King; and in this Fortune, whereof thou art worthy, shew the same moderation and continency as at this present: And when as thou shalt sit in thy Regal Seat, having in thy hands the power of the

life and death of thy people, do in no wise forget the Estate thou wert in when thou took'st the Kingdom up∣on thee, nor yet for what purpose thou didst receive it. The matter seemed to Abdolominus like a Dream, who asked them if they were mad that would mock him after that manner? But when he saw them af∣firm by Oaths the thing to be in earnest, he washed himself; and receiving the Garment, which was of Purple and Gold, he went with them into the Pa∣lace.

The Fame (as it is accustomed in such a case) did notably abroad of this subject; some favoured the cause, and some did disdain it; but such as were rich, did upbraid his poverty and base Estate, to such as were near about Alexander, who caused the King to send for him; and when he had long beheld his behaviour, he said: Your personage doth not disagree from the Fame of your Linage; but I desire to know with what patience you did sustain your poverty: I would to God (quoth he) I could bear my prosperity in like case now, when I am a King: Th••se hands did get that I desired; and having nothing, I lacked no∣thing. His words caused Alexander to conceive of him a marvellous good Opinion; so that he gave unto him, not only the riches, stuff, and furniture appertaining to the King before, but also many things that were taken from the Persians; adding to his Dominion, all the Country near about that City.

In the mean season, Amintas, who heretofore fled from Alexander to Darius, and now he escaped in the last Battel, did come to Tripolis with four thou∣sand Greeks; where he imbarqued, and sailed to

Cyprus; thinking the World to be such then, that every one might enjoy what he could get, as if it had been his own Inheritance. His purpose was to go into Egypt, thinking there to become an Ene∣my both to Darius, and to Alexander, and to com∣ply with the world, according as time should serve. To bring therefore his Souldiers to think well of his Enterprize, he declared how the Governour of E∣gypt was slain in the Battel, and that the Persians left there in Garrison were but a small number, of little force, and without any 〈◊〉〈◊〉: He shewed how the Egyptians used to Rebel against their Gover∣nours; wherefore they were sure to be received as Friends: For necessity (quoth he) hath inforced us to prove our Fortunes, which failing us in our first hope, we must now conceive that the time to come shall be much better then the Fortunes we now enjoy. They all agreed with one voice, that he should lead them where he pleased: Whereupon, thinking not good to pretermit the occasion, whiles they were high with hopes, he conveyed them to Egypt, and en∣tred the Haven at Pelusium, under pretence that he had been sent thither by Darius. When he had got Pelusium, he set forwards towards Memphis; at the Fame of whose coming, the Egyptians being a light Nation, and more apt to raise a Coil, then to maintain it when it was once begun, ran to him out of all their Towns and Villages, with an in∣tent to destroy all the Persians; who notwithstand∣ing the fear they were in, did not leave the defence of the Country, but fought with the Greeks, and were put to flight.

After this Victory, Amintas besieged Memphis, and

his men destroyed so all the Country thereabouts, that they left nothing unspoiled: Whereupon, Ma∣zeches, though he perceived his men much amazed with the fear of their late overthrow; yet when he saw his Enemies scattered abroad, and without or∣der, being overcome with security, and the pride of their late Victory, he at length perswaded his men to issue out of the City; and in setting upon their Enemies, to recover again what they had lost: Which advice being good of it self, being tho∣roughly followed, took most fortunate success; for they slew at that time both Amintas and all his company. This punishment he suffered for the of∣fence committed to both Princes, being neither faithful to Alexander whom he forsook, nor to Da∣rius to whom he fled. Darius Captains who escaped from the Battel of Issum, gathering together such men as were scattered abroad, and such power be∣side as they could levy in Cappadocia and Paphlago∣nia, did attempt to recover again the Country of Lydia. Antigonus was Governour for Alexander there, who notwithstanding that he had taken ma∣ny Souldiers out of the Garrisons of Alexander, yet he so little esteemed his Enemies, that he doubted not to adventure the Battel. The Persians there re∣ceived the like Fortune they did in other places, and attempting the Fight in three sundry Countries, were vanquished in them all.

At the same time, the Navy of the Macedons which Alexander had sent for out of Greece, meeting Aristimones, (whom Darius had appointed to make War upon the Coast of Hellespont) sought with, and drowned all his Ships. Pharnabasus, Darius having

exacted money of the Misonians, and put a Garri∣son in Scios, passed into the Isle of Andros with a hundred Ships, and from thence he sailed to Shiph∣nus; and putting Men of War into all the Islands, exacted of them money. The greatness of the War that was in hand between two of the most puissant Princes of Asia and Europe, did draw both Greece and Creet to Arms: Agis, the King of Lacedemon, gathered together eight-thousand Greeks that were come home out of Cilicia, and moved War against Antipater that was Governour of Macedonia. The Cretians following sometime one part, and some∣time another, received one while a Garrison of Macedons, and another while of Lacedemonians to lye amongst them. But those Wars were of no great importance, for all mens eyes were fixed upon the Wars that were between Alexander and Darius, whereupon all the rest did depend.

The Macedons had subdued all Syria and Phenice, Tyre only excepted; which being the greatest and most notable City of all that Country, shewed that they esteemed themselves worthy rather to joyn with Alexander as Friends, then to become his Sub∣jects; for when he was come near unto them, and incamped upon the main Land, which is divided from their City with a small Arm of the Sea, they sent to him, by their Embassadours, a Crown of Gold for a Present, with great plenty besides of victuals for his Army: He received their Gifts as from his Friends, and gave gentle Answers unto the Embassadours; but he shewed himself much desi∣rous to make Sacrifice unto Hercules, (whom the Tyrians specially worshipped, and the Macedon

Kings supposed themselves to be descended of him) being admonished (as he said) by an Oracle. The Embassadours made answer, That there was a Tem∣ple of Hercules without their City, in the place which they call Palaetiron, whereas he might do Sacrifice at pleasure. At those words Alexander could not refrain from anger, whereunto he was much subject, but fell in a great passion.

I perceive now (quoth he) because ye dwell in an Island, ye trust so much in the scituation of your City, that ye despise my Land power: But I will shortly make you understand, that you are scituated upon the Main Land; and therefore trust to it, that if ye re∣ceive me not in, I will enter into your City by force.

When the Embassadours were dismissed with this answer, such as were near about the King, per∣swaded them that they should not exclude him whom all Syria and Phenicia had received: But they had entertained such a confidence, for that their City stood in the Sea, being divided eighty furlongs from the Main Land, that they absolutely determined to abide the Siege.

That Sea of theirs is much subject to the South-West-winde; which at every Storm made the Waves beat so high against the shore, that it would not suf∣fer the Macedons to make any work for the uniting the Main Land to the City, it being scarce possible to work any thing there when the weather was most calm. The first work that the Macedons began, was by and by thrown down with the vehemency of the Seas that were driven by the winde; nor could they make any Fort so strong within the Sea, but that it was washed away, and brought down by

beating of the Waves; and when the Windes blew violently, they would bring the Seas clean over the work. There was another difficulty no less then this; for by reason that the Walls were environed about with the deepness of the Sea, they could raise no Engine to shoot, but afar off out of the Ships; nor was there any ground about the City, whereup∣on Ladders might have been reared against the walls, or approach made unto them by Land. A∣lexander had no Ships; and if he had any, and would have coveted to bring them to the walls, yet by reason of the unstableness of the water, they might with shot easily have been kept off. But a∣mongst many other things, the Tyrians were wonderfully encouraged by the coming of the Embassadours, sent from Carthage to celebrate a yearly sacrifice: for the Tyrians being the builders of Carthage, were ever since that time had in Ve∣neration of them, as their Parents and first Foun∣ders. Those Embassadours exhorted them in any wise to continue the Siege, and promised them shortly aid; which thing they alledged might easily and soon be done, for so much as at that time all the Seas were full of the Carthaginian ships. Upon this encouragement, they determined to abide the extremity, and placed their Engines upon the Tow∣ers and walls, dividing their Engines amongst the Youth of the City. The Artificers, whereof the City had gre••t plenty, were divided into Work∣houses, to make all such things as were necessary for the Wars: There were devised certain Instru∣ments wherewith they might pull down the Works that their Enemies made, called Harpagons; and

also Crows of Iron, named Corvi, with all other things that might be invented for the defence of the City. But a strange thing is reported, that when the Iron was put in the Forge, and blown in the Fire, the same was seen to be full of drops of blood: which Wonder, the Tyrians did interpret as a token of good Fortune towards themselves, and as a signification of destruction towards their Ene∣mies. A like wonder was seen among the Mace∣d••ns; for when a certain Souldier was breaking of his bread, drops of blood appeared therein: where∣at Alexander being astonied, Aristander, that was most cunning of all the D••viners, did interpret thus the matter: If the blood had appeared outward∣ly, then it had signified evil fortune to the Macedons; but in as much as it was found within, it betokened destruction to the City they went about to con∣quer.

Alexander considering his N••vy to be far from him, and that a long Siege should be an impedi∣ment to his other affairs, sent Officers of Arms into the City, to perswade them unto peace; whom the Tyrians, against the Law of Nations, did drown in the Sea. Their u••••ust death stirred Alexander so much, that he then utterly determined to go for∣wards with the Siege: But before he could make his approach, it was of necessity for him to make a Peer or Land-work, whereby they might pass from the main Land to the City: But in the making thereof, there entred great despair into all mens hearts, considering the deepness of the Sea, which they saw not po••••i••le to be filled scarcely by any Di∣vine power; for they thought no Stones so great, no

Trees so high, nor any Country to have such plen∣ty, as might suffice for the building of a Bank in such a place, considering the Sea remained always troubled; and the narrower the place was between the City and the Land, so much more greater was the violence of the waters. But Alexander, who had the policy to allure his Souldiers to what effect he pleased, declared that Hercules appeared unto him in his sleep, and gave him his hand, proffering him to be his Captain and his Guide for his entrance in∣to the City: Thereunto he added the killing of his Embassadours, whereby they had violated and bro∣ken the Law that all Nations observed, and that there remained but one City which stayed his Vi∣ctory: thereupon he divided the work amongst his Captains, that every one might apply his own Band, and put the work more forward.

There were great plenty of stones at hand of the ruines of the old City where Tyre stood before; and for the making of Boats and Towers, Timber was brought from Mount Libanus: The work did rise from the bottom of the Sea like a Mountain, but it was not yet brought to the High-water mark; and the further the Peer was brought from the Land un∣to the Seaward, so much the sooner the Sea did swallow up the materials whereof the Peer was made. Whiles the Macedons were thus about their work, the Tyrians would come about them in small Vessels, and give them words of reproach and scorn; as, they were now become goodly Men of War, that would be made Pioniers, and carry burthens upon their backs: And they asked them, if they thought Alexander to be greater then the god of the Sea?

But their reproach did not hinder, but increase the chearfulness of the Souldiers in their pain and tra∣vel; insomuch, that the work in a short space sur∣mounted above the water, and increasing much in breadth, approached near unto the City: Then the Tyrians seeing the hugeness of the work, in the increase whereof they saw themselves deceived, lit∣tle thinking that it would have grown to such a pass, in little Vessels came rowing about the Peer, and drove the Souldiers with shot from their work∣ing; and because they could easily bring their Boats suddenly forwards, return soon again, they hurt many of the Macedons, without any danger to them∣selves, inforcing them to leave their work, and fall to their own defence: For remedy whereof, and to avoid their Enemies shot, they were compelled to stretch out Beasts skins upon Poles, like Sails, and set those between them and their Enemies: and besides, at the head of the Peer they raised up two Towers, from whence with shot, and casting of Darts, they kept off the Boats that came about them.

On the other side, the Tyrians would land men with their Boats far out of the sight of the Camp, and kill such as were carrying of stones. The Pea∣sants of Arabia also did set upon certain of the Ma∣cedons that were scattered abroad in Mount Liba∣nus, where they slew and took divers? that was one cause which moved Alexander to divide his Army; and lest he might seem to remain idle about the Siege of one City, he appointed Perdicas and Cra∣terus to take the charge of the work he had in hand, and marched himself in person into Arabia, with

such part of his power, as was most apt for his present purpose. In the mean season, the Tyrians prepared a great ship, laden with stones and gravel behinde, so that the fore-part sloated above the wa∣ter: which ship anointed over with pitch and brim∣stone, they brought suddenly, by sailing and force of Oars, unto the Peer; and there remaining, the Marriners set the ship on fire, and then leaped into the Boats, which followed after to receive them. The ship thus set on fire, so inflamed the Wood-work pertaining to the Peer, that before any rescue could come, the fire had taken the Towers of the Peer, and all the rest of the Works that were made in the head. When they, who leaped into the Boats, saw the matter take such effect, they put betwixt the Timber, and other void places, both Fire-brands, and all such things as might give nourishment and increase to the fire: So that the Towers, and all the rest, being on a flame, many of the Macedons were consumed therewith; and the rest forsook their Arms, and threw themselves into the Sea. The Ty∣rians, that were more desirous to take them alive, then to kill them with staves and stones, did so beat them on the hands as they were swimming, that for weariness they were glad to be taken up into their Boats. The Towers were not consumed with fire only; for it chanced also the same day a terri∣ble winde to rise, which blowing from the Sea, brought the Waves with such violence upon the Peer, that with often beating of the Seas, the joynts that knit the work together, began to loose and to leave their hold: then the water that washed through, brake down the whole work in the midst;

so that the heaps of stones which were before su∣stained by the Timber and Farth cast betwixt them, being broke asunder, the whole work fell to ruine, and were carried away into the Deep.

By that time Alexander was returned out of A∣rabia, and scarcely found any remainder or token, that any such work had been. In that case (as it is ever used in things that chance evil) one laid the fault upon another, when indeed, the violence of the Sea was the cause of all. Alexander began to make the Peer again after a new manner; the head therefore lying into the weather and the winde, and not the open side, as it did before; so that the fore∣front always defended the rest of the work lying behinde. He increased also the breadth thereof, to the intent the Towers might be builded in the midst of the Peer, whereby they should be less sub∣ject to the Enemies shot: whole Trees were put in∣to the Sea, with their tops and branches, and after, great stones were thrown upon them; and over those a new course of stone and trees, and stone a∣gain; by which device this whole work was joyned and fastned all into one.

As the Macedons were busie to bring their work forwards, so the Tyrians were as diligent to invent all such things, as might give impediment to their proceeding. The chief practice was, for a great number or them to enter into the Sea coast, afar off, out of the Macedons sight, and so come diving un∣der the water, till they came unto the Peer; where with Hooks they would pu••l the branches of the Trees that appeared out of the stones, and 〈…〉〈…〉 substance followed after into the deep: For the

Trees being discharged of their burthens, were easi∣ly drawn away; and then the Foundation failing, the whole Work, that stayed upon the Trees, fell to ruine. Amongst these impediments, Alexander stood in great perplexity of minde, doubting whether he should continue the Siege still, or else depart his way. When he was in this imagination, suddenly his Navy arrived to Cyprus, and Cleander also with his Souldiers which he had brought out of Greece: And having to the number of 180 Ships, divided them into two Squadrons; whereof he committed the one unto Pythagoras, the King of Cyprus, and to Craterus, and took charge of the other himself; committing his own person to a Gallery called Cinquereme, which had five Oars on a side. The Tyrians durst not adventure the Sea-fight, although they had a great Navy, but set all their Galleys in a Front before the Walls of the City, which the King assailed, and put to distress.

The next day, the Macedons, with their ships, in∣vironed the City round about, and did beat down the Walls, especially with such Engines as they call Rams; but the Tyrians straightway inforced, and made up their Walls with stones that lay at hand, and raised up an inward Wall round about the Ci∣ty, which might be their defence if the other fail∣ed: But their destruction approached on every side; the Work was now wrought within the cast of a Dart, and the Ships gave the approach round about the Walls▪ so that they were over-laid both by Sea and Land: The Macedons had devised to joyn their Galleys, two and two together, in such sort, that the fore-parts met close before, and the

hinder parts lay far off one from the other; and o∣ver the spaces remaining betwixt Poop and Poop, they made Bridges, with Masts and Main-yards layed betwixt Galley and Galley, fast bound toge∣ther to carry Souldiers upon. When they h••d put their Galleys in this order, they set forwards to∣wards the City; and having rampired the Sterns for defence of the Souldiers that were behinde, they stood in their Galleys, and did shoot and cast Darts against their Enemies, without any peril or danger to themselves. It was Mid-night when they had Commandment to set forwards, after this manner; as the Ships were approaching on all parts, and the Tyrians stood astonied for fear and desperation, be∣hold, the Sky was overwhelmed with dim Clouds, and a sudden darkness took away the light: Then the Sea, by little and little, waxed terrible and rough; the Winde blew, raising the Waves, which did beat the Ships one against another; the vio∣lence whereof, burst asunder the Bands and Gra∣spers wherewith the Galleys were fastened together: Which done, the Bridges crashed, and flew asun∣der; and with the Souldiers that stood upon them, fell into the Sea. There was great confusion; for the Ships entangled thus together, could by no means be governed in such a Tempest; the Soul∣diers disturbing the feat of the Marriners, and the Marriners giving impediment to the Office of the Souldiers.

Thus (as it doth often happen in such a case) the expert were obedient to the ignorant; for the Ship-Masters that were accustomed to Command, for fear of death, were directed by others. But at

length, by force of Rowing, the Galleys recovered the shore, the greater part of them being broken and torn. It chanced, at the same time, thirty Em∣bassadors to come from Carthage to Tyre, who gave more comfort then assistance to them that were be∣sieged: For they shewed how the Carthaginians were so assailed with Wars at their own doors, that they could by no means send them succour; inso∣much, that the Syracusans were destroying Africa with Fire and Sword, and had incamped themselves under the very walls of Carthage. The Tyrians yet were not discomfited, for all that they were disap∣pointed of their special trust; but delivered unto those Embassadours their Wives and their Children, to carry unto Carthage, thinking to continue the Siege with greater resolution, if the things which were most dear unto them were removed out of danger.

There was a Tyrian, who in an open Assembly de∣clared, that Apollo (whom the Tyriars greatly do worship) had appeared to him in his sleep, and declared to him, that he had forsaken the City, and transformed the work that the Macedons had made, into a great Wood. Hereupon, though the Author were of small credit; yet for as much as men in fear are apt to believe the worst, they tyed Apollo••s Image with a Golden Chain, and bound fast also the Altar of Hercules, (to whom the City was dedicate) think∣ing by detaining of the one, to keep safe the other. The Carthaginians, in times past, had brought that Image from Syracuse, and had placed it in the head-City, out of the which they were descended: For their custom was to adorn Tyre with such spoils as

they had taken, no less then they did Carthage it self. They, at that time, would also have been Au∣thors unto the Tyrians, for the renewing of an old sacrifice that had been omitted many years, wherein they used to offer up to Saturn a free-born childe; which being rather a sacriledge then a sacrifice, the Carthaginians received from their first Founders, and still observed the same, till they were destroyed: and had not the Ancient Men, by whom all things were governed, withstood it, this wicked Superstition had taken place, which Nature and Humanity doth abhor: The necessity that was hanging over their heads, being more effectual then any Art or Science, practised not only such things as were accustomed for defences, but also found out what was never in∣vented before: For to the disturbance of the ships that approached the Walls, they devised long Raf∣ters, to the which they fastened grapp'es of Iron, and great hooks like Sythes; which let down with Ropes by an Engine, either did tear the ships, or destroyed the men. They invented also Targets or Me••tle to be made fire-hot, in the which they put burning Sand, and scalding Lime, and then poured the same upon the Macedons that came near to the Walls, being a mischief that they feared most of all other: For when the hot Sand entred between the Harness and the body, there was no means to avoid it; and where it touched, it burned to the bones; so that they were forced to throw away their Harness, and tear away all things they had upon their bodies; thereby they became subject to be hurt by their E••e∣mies, and were not in case to indamage them again: But specially the Grapplers that were let down

(called Corvi) took violently away many of the Souldiers that were within the ships. Alexander see∣ing the obstinate defence of the Tyrians, was weary of the Siege, and determined to raise it, and to go unto Egypt: For considering in how short a space he subdued Asia, it grieved him to be detained so long about the Walls of one City, whereby he o∣mitted the occasion and opportunity of greater Conquests. But he was as much ashamed to depart without his purpose, as to continue there, and leave other things undone; judging, that if he should leave Tyre in that sort as a witness that he might be withstood, it should much impair his Fame, by which he had gotten more then by force: And it chanced at the same time, a Monster of an exceed∣ing bigness did appear, as well in the sight of the Tyrians, as the Macedons; which lying upon his back above the water, came towards the Peer; and when he had lifted up himself at the head of the Peer, it dived under the water again; and sometimes ap∣pearing above, and sometimes hiding himself un∣derneath, when it came near the walls of the City, it vanished out of sight.

The sight of this Monster rejoyced both parties, the Macedons interpreting the same to be sent them as a Guide for their direction to finish the work: And the Tyrians divining, that Neptune, in re∣venging the usurpations that the Macedons had made upon the Sea, would shortly destroy the work that they had made, in such like sort as he had taken away the Monster. They, upon their own i∣magination, conceived such a gladness, and prog∣nosticated to themselves such good Fortune, that

they fell to banqueting and drinking; and when they were well charged with Wine, at the Sun∣rising, they put Garlands of Flowers upon their heads, and mounted into Galleys, not only with hope of Victory, but with a Triumph made before∣hand. It chanced at the same time, that Alexander had conveyed his Navy to the contrary side of the City, and left upon the shore thirty of the smallest Vessels, of the which the Tyrians took two, and put the rest in danger of distress, until such time as the King hearing the Alarm, set forwards with his Navy towards that part where the cry was heard. The first Galley of the Macedons that came near them was a Cinquereme, the swi••test of all the rest; which when the Tyrians espied, they came against her with two Galleys cross upon her side; whereof the one struck at her full with her Spurn, with whom the Cinquereme grappled; and the other, which was loose and at liberty, fell upon her on the contrary side. But lest between them two she might sustain some damage, one of Alexanders Trirems came to the rescue, with such violence, that the Master of the loose Galley was struck into the Sea. When the Tyrians saw that Alexander was come himself, and more of his ships at hand, with strength of Oars, and great industry, they set their Galleys that were intangled loose again, and at li∣berty, making towards their Haven with all the haste they could: Alexander immediately pursued them; but when he came to the Haven he could not enter, but was beaten off with shot from the walls, yet did he take and drown the most part of their Galleys. After this Adventure, he rested his

Souldiers two days, and then commanded his ships to be brought forwards, and the Engines in them; to the intent, that by assa••••ing the Tyrians on all sides, he might put them into an extreme fear. A∣lexander with a wonderful courage, not without great peril of his person, mounted up into the top of a Tower that was made in a Ship, and there known by his apparel and rich Armour, was chiefly assaulted, and shot on from all parts. He wrought wonderful feats with his own person; for both with his Pike he slew divers that stood at defence, and afterwards he fought hand to hand, with his Sword and Target, throwing divers down from their de∣fence; for the Tower wherein he fought joyned hard to the Walls.

By that time the Engines, called Rams, with much beating, having laid low the Walls, the Navy was got within the Haven, and certain of the Ma∣cedons had won the Towers: The Tyrians then op∣pressed with so many miseries at once, were clean discomfited; some fled unto the Temples for suc∣cour; some did shut their doors, taking that kinde of death they liked best; and others ran upon their Enemies, to sell their lives at the dearest rate: but the most part got up into the tops of their houses, and from thence did cast down upon their Enemies, whatsoever came unto their hands. Alexander com∣manded all to be slain without exception, saving such as fled into the Temples, and willed all the houses to be set on fire. Though Proclamation thereof was made through the City, yet the Tyrians that bore Arms could not save themselves; for as the women and Children filled the Temples, so the

men kept the Entries of their houses, ready to abide the cruelty of their enemies: Yet the Sydonians were the occasion that many were saved, who serving in the Garrison of the Macedons, and entring the City with them, were mindful of their Affinity with the Tyrians (Agenor being the Builder of both their Cities) and conveyed many into their ships, which they privately sent unto Sydon; by that means fif∣teen thousand escaped the cruelty of the Sword. The number of them that were slain may partly be conjectured, in that there were found dead within the City, six thousand of such as did bear Arms. The Kings anger against the City made the sight dolorous even unto the Conquerours: For 2000, whom the fury of the slaughter had left alive, were afterwards hanged upon Crosses all along the Sea-Coast. The Embassadours of the Carthaginians were saved; but War was threatned to be made against them, from the which he was then hindred by other business he had in hand.

Thus Tyre was taken the seventh moneth after it was besieged; a City notable to Posterity, as well through the antiquity thereof, as by the often change of Fortune it had suffered. It was builded by Agenor, and many years was Mistress of the Seas, not only thereabouts, but in all places where their Navies were heard of; and if we may credit Fame, that City was the first which either taught or learned letters. They builded Cities, and filled them with Inhabi∣tants throughout the greatest part of the world; as Carthage in Africk, Thebes in Boetia, and Cades in Spain, upon the Ocean. It is believed, that by rea∣son of their free course through all Seas, and by vi∣siting

many strange Countries, they had occasion to look out Seats in which to place their Youth, wherewith they then abounded; or else, as some report, the Inhabitants unwilling to dwell there, by reason of many Earth-quakes, were compelled, by force of Arms, to seek out new dwelling places. But when many casualties had happened unto Tyre, af∣ter this destruction being restored to its former height of flourish, it now remaineth under the pro∣tection of the Roman Clemency. About the same time Alexander received Letters from Darius, wherein at last he was contented to name him King.

His request was, that Alexander would receive his Daughter Saptina for his Wife, with whom he offered in Dower, all the Country between Hellespont, and the River of Alys, would reserve unto himself only such Kingdoms as lay from thence Eastward; and if peradventure he should refuse to receive this offer, he willed to consider, that Fortune is not wont to conti∣nue long in one Estate, and that the greater felicity men enjoy, the greater envy doth attend them. It was to be doubted (he said) lest he exalted himself through some vain affection, like as Birds use to do, whose na∣tural lightness doth convey them to the Stars: for there was nothing more difficult, then in such young years, to bear well the height and greatness of For∣tune. He willed him also to consider, that there re∣mained yet many Countries that he had not touched, and that he should not meet him always in the Streights, having to pass the River of Euphrates, Tygre, Araxes, and Hydaspes, which were as Bull∣warks unto his Dominion; and when he should come

unto the Plains, he would be ashamed of his small number. He put him in remembrance, how long it should be e're he could pass Media, Hircania, Bactria, and the Indians that bordered on the Ocean Sea; and likewise the Sogdians and Arachosians, of whom men have no other knowledge, then of their names only, with other Nations lying towards Mount Caucasus, and the River of Tanais. And although no man should withstand him, or give him Battel, yet he should grow in age (he said) before he could pass so many Lands. In the latter end, he advised him not to call him forwards, for he would come soon enough to his destruction.

Alexander made answer to those Letters by the Messengers that brought them, to this effect:

That Darius offered to him that which was none of his own, and made a proffer to give that which he had already lost. For Lydia, Ionia, Aeolida, and the Coast of Hellespont, which he appointed in Dower, were al∣ready become the Rewards of his Victory: And as for Laws and Conditions, those were wont to be given and appointed by the Victors, and received of such as were overcome; and if he were ignorant in which of those two Estates he were, that he should adventure the Battel once again: For he was not ignorant, he said, before he passed the Sea, how Lydia and Cilicia were over small rewards for the making of such a War. But his determination was to subdue and bring under his subjection, both Persepolis, the chief City of his Empire, and also Bactria, and Ecbatana, with the uttermost bounds of the Orient: He could fly no where but he was able to follow; and therefore counselled him, that he should not fright him with Rivers, who had learned how to pass Seas.

Thus the Kings wrote one to another; and in the mean season the Rhodians yeilded their City and their Haven unto Alexander, who committed the Rule of Cilicia unto Socrates, and the Country about Tyre unto Philotas. Andromachus was made Par∣menio his Deputy in Caria and Syria; for Alexander minding to accomplish what he had begun, com∣manded Ephestion, that with his Navy he should sail along the Coast of Phenicia; and so he came with his whole power to the City of Gaza. About the same time there were solemn Triumphs and Plays at Isthmos, accustomed to be celebrated by the con∣fluence of all Greece. In this a Councel was had, and (as the Wits of the Greeks be sudden) they decreed to send twelve Embassadours unto Alexander, for the carrying unto him a Crown of Gold, in grati∣fying the Victory he had won, and the Acts he had done for the safeguard and Liberties of Greece; and yet a little before they hearkned how the Fame went, and were ready to bend that way that For∣tune inclined. Alexander visited not in person all such Countries and Cities as refused to do their obe∣dience unto him, but made Conquest of them by his Deputies; for Gales Mastered Paphlagonia, Antigo∣nus Liconia, and Balachrus overcame Idarne, who was Darius Lieutenant, and won Miletu••: Amphi∣terus and Egilachus, with a Navy of an hundred and sixty Ships, subdued all the Islands between Asia and Achaia; and also, by the consent of the Inha∣bitants, got Tenedos, always a Receptacle of the Persians.

They were at the point to have gotten Scios, but that Pharnabasus, Darius Deputy, having intelli∣gence

of it, did first apprehend all such as were of the Macedons Faction, and committed the City with a small Garrison to Apolonides and Athenagoras, that were inclined to the Persians. Alexanders Captains for all this continued the Siege of the City, not so much in trust of their own strength, as in hope of the Faction they had within the City; in which they were not deceived: For through a Sedition which did arise between Apolonides, and the Captains of the Men of War, occasion was ministred unto the Ma∣cedons to enter the Town. When the Gate was broken up, and a Band of Macedons entred, then the Citizens, which before had devised to Rebel a∣gainst the Persians, took part with Amphiterus and Egilocus; so that the Garrison of the Persians were slain, and Pharnabasus, with Apolonides and Athe∣nagoras, taken prisoners.

There were twelve Galleys taken, with their Souldiers and Rowers, besides thirty Ships and Ves∣sels of Pyrates, with three thousand Greeks that were in pay under the Persians, the Greeks serving to recruit the Forces of the Macedons; and the Py∣rates being put to death, the other Ships were ad∣ded to their own Fleet.

It chanced that Aristonicus, the Usurper of Methy∣na, ignorant of any such thing as chanced in the fore-part of the night, came with certain Pyrates Ships to enter into the Haven; of whom when the Watch demanded what he was, he said he was Ari∣stonicus, and came to the succour of Pharnabasus: They answered, He was at rest, and could not then be spoken withal; but it should be lawful for him, being their Friend, to enter into the Haven for that

night, and speak with him when it was day. Ari∣stonicus was the first that entred, and the ten Pyrate ships followed him: But whiles they anchored their ships, the Watchmen drew the Chain again over the Haven, and then called up such as lay near a∣bout them; whereupon none of them durst resist, but were all taken prisoners, and delivered to Am∣phiterus and Egilocus. From thence the Macedons passed to Mytelene, which was kept by Chares of Athens, with a Garrison of two thousand Persi∣ans; but when he was not able to endure the Siege, he yeilded up the City, on composition to have their lives saved, and to depart to Imbross. Darius despairing of peace, which he thought to have obtained by his Letters and Embassadours, gave his minde to Muster a new Army, and freshly to renew the War: Therefore he commanded the Captains and Rulers of his men to have a Rende∣vouze at Babylon; and that Bessus, Governour of the Bactrians, should come thither with all the power he could make. The Bactrians are the most hardy people among those Nations, rough men, and much abhorring the delicateness of the Persians▪ For by reason that they border upon the Scythians, which is a Warlike Nation, they are accustomed to live by spoil, and are conversant continually in Arms: But Bessus, who was suspected of Treason, affecting the Kingdom, and who would not be content with a second place, put Darius in great jealousies; who having an inkling that he aspired to be King, feared his Treason; Bessus having no other way, but by that, to bring his purpose to pass.

Alexander wrought all the ways he could to ob∣tain

knowledge where Darius was, and into what Country he was gone; and yet could not get any intelligence, by reason of a Custom amongst the Persians, who are accustomed, with a marvellous fidelity, to keep close their Princes secrets, in the uttering whereof, neither fear of death, nor hope of reward, can cause them to bring forth a word. This was an Ancient Discipline which the Kings there used among their Subjects, in punishing, with loss of life, the lavishness of the tongue, which is there more grievously chastised then any other crime: Nor is there, in those parts, any Vertue looked for at any mans hands, who hath not the gift of se∣cresie, whereof Nature hath given a facility in man. This was the cause that Alexander was ig∣norant of all things that his Enemies did; and therefore continued his Siege before Gaza. Betis was Captain there, who was a man of notable Fi∣delity towards his Prince, and with a small Garri∣son defended the City that was of a large compass: Wherefore Alexander perceiving the advantage of the Scituation, caused many Mines to be made; for the lightness of the ground covered the designe, having neither Rocks nor Stones to give any impe∣diment: They began their Mines on that side where they within could not behold them; and to avoid the suspition of any such work in hand, he caused an approach to be made to the Walls with Towers that he had made of Timber; but the ground would not serve for their carrying and removing, by reason of the looseness of the Sand whereinto the Wheels sunk, and was the cause that the Joynts of the Towers brake asunder. About the carriage

of them many were hurt, and much trouble they had, both in withdrawing of them, and in set∣ting them forwards. When he perceived he could not prevail by that means, he drew off his men for that time: But the next day he environed the City round about, to give an assault on every part at once; and before he returned out of his Camp, he made Sacrifice, after his Country man∣ner, requiring the aid of the gods. It chanced, as he was so doing, that a Raven flying by, let fall a Clod (which she carried in her Claws) upon the Kings Head, where it brake in pieces, and the Raven flew unto the next Tower, where her fea∣thers were so entangled with pitch, that she could not fly away, but was taken by the s••anders there∣abouts. This was thought a matter worthy on which the Diviners should consult, for he himself was not free from the Superstition of such things: Therefore Aristander, to whom he gave most cre∣dit, did interpret the same to be a signe of the destruction of that City; but yet there was some peril (he said) appearing towards the Kings per∣son: for which cause he perswaded Alexander, that he should not go about any exercise that day. Though it grieved him much, that one City should be a stay and impediment unto him for his free passage into Egypt, yet he obeyed the Prog∣nosticators, and caused all his men, for that day, to retire. The Enemies took courage at their de∣parture, thinking fear to be the cause why they came not forwards; and issuing out of the City, they set upon the Rear: But they were more fierce in the beginning of the skirmish, then constant in

the maintaining of it: for when they saw the Ma∣cedons rally themselves, they stayed, and pursued no further. Alexander hearing the Alarm, and quite forgetting the peril that was prophecied un∣to him, at his Friends request put on his Armour, (which he was seldom accustomed to do) and re∣sorted thither where the skirmish was most hot. There he was known by a certain Arabian, that was one of Darius Souldiers, who took upon him a de∣sperate enterprize to kill Alexander; and therefore making his pretence to be as a Fugitive from the Persians, kept his Sword secret underneath his Target, and fell down on his knees before him; who judging that he had fled to him for succour, commanded that he should be received among his own men: But the Arabian therewithal made a violent thrust at the King with his Sword; which he stepping aside a little, did avoid it from his throat, and cut off the Arabians hand that missed of the thrust. Alexander then judged, that he had clean escaped the peril that should have chanced to him that day: But (as I think) Destiny cannot be avoided; for whiles he was eager in fight a∣mongst the foremost, he was shot with an Arrow, which passed through his Corslet, and did stick in his shoulder. Philip, his Physitian, did pluck it out, and great abundance of blood did follow, where∣of every man was afraid, for so much as they never saw an Arrow pass so far through any Armour be∣fore: But he never changed countenance, nor co∣lour; but causing the blood to be ••••enched, and his wound to be wrapped up, continued still in the skirmish amongst the foremost, either suffer∣ing

or dissembling his pain. But when the blood that was stayed for the time did break out again, and the wound, which for the newness thereof grieved him not much, began to swell and rankle, as the blood waxed cold; then he began to faint and fall down, and was taken up by such as were next unto him, and carried into his Tent. Betis that perceived this, and supposing him to be slain, retired unto the City with great joy and triumph. But Alexanders wound being yet unhealed, he cau∣sed a Mount to be cast up as high as the top of the Walls, and the Walls to be cast down in divers pla∣ces by the Miners.

They within made a Counter-work as high as the old Wall, but it did not reach to the height of the Towers made upon the Mount; so that the inner parts of the City were subject to the shot of the Enemy. But not long after, a Mine, the Wall by it being overthrown, and a breach made, through which the Macedons did enter, was the utter loss of the Town; where Alexander pressing on amongst the foremost adventurously, had his leg hurt with a stone: Notwithstanding that, he mounted up by the help of his Weapon (his former wound yet unclosed) and fought amongst the foremost, be∣ing in a great fury, that in the Siege of one City he had received two wounds. Betis that had fought notably, and received divers hurts, was forsaken of his own men; and notwithstanding which, he maintained still the fight, and all his Armour was imbrued with his own blood, and his Enemies: But when he was inclosed round, Alexander who was wont to wonder at the Vertue of his Ene∣mies,

being puffed up with an insolent joy, said unto him: Betis, thou shalt not die as thou wouldest thy self, but whatsoever torments may be invented, believe that thou shalt suffer them. For all which words, there appeared in Betis no token of fear; but he beheld the King with an undaunted coun∣tenance, and would not answer him one word: Whereupon Alexander said; See you not how obsti∣nate he doth continue? He will neither kneel, nor so much as ask mercy; but groans shall break his si∣lence, if nothing else can do it. Thus his Fortune did alter his Nature, and turned his Wrath into Fury: For he causing Cords to be put through Betis feet, whilest he was alive, did draw him about the City with Horses, glorying in that he did imitate Achilles (of whom he was descended) in the like affliction of his Enemy.

There were slain of the Persians and Arabians ten thousand, and the Victory was not unbloody to the Macedons. This Siege was not so famous through the Nobility of the City, as it was by the double danger the King was in, who making haste to pass into Egypt, sent Amintas with ten Gal∣leys into Macedon, to levy more Souldiers: For though he were always a Conquerour, yet his men were diminished; and he trusted not so much to the Souldiers of those Countries he had subdued, as he did to his own Nation. The Egyptians being a people that always were offended with the in∣crease of the good fortune of the Persians, who in their Government over them used much pride and covetousness: And therefore seeking all occa∣sions to revolt, had received Amintas, who came

to them rather by way of treaty, then by force: and now especially at Alexanders coming, they plucked up their spirits, and assembled a great number to meet him at Pelusium, where they judged he would enter.

The seventh day, after he removed from Gaza, he came to the place in Egypt, which now is called Alexanders Camp; from whence he sent his Army unto Pelusium, by the Land-way, and he himself, with a choice Band of men, was conveyed thither upon the River of Nile. The Persians durst not a∣bide his coming, being in doubt the Egyptians would revolt: And therefore, when Alexander drew near unto Memphis, where Astaces, Darius Lieutenant, was with a power of men, he came over the River to meet Alexander; and yeilding himself, he delivered him eight hundred Talents, with all the riches belonging to the King of Persia. From Memphis he passed upon the same River into the inward parts of Egypt; and so ordered the Go∣vernment of the Country, that he changed no∣thing of their Laws and Customs: Which having effected, he had a great desire to worship the O∣racle of Jupiter Hammon. But it was declared unto him, that it was not possible for him to march with any great number, the Country he had to travel through being spread all over with barren sands, which being heated with the Sun, would burn their feet in such sort, that it should be intolera∣ble for them to travel, not only with the heat and want of water, but also with the rowling sand, which was so deep, and would so sink under their feet, that they should not easily stir. All which

difficulties the Egyptians set forth to be greater then they were indeed. But Alexander, for the ve∣hement desire he had to exceed the condition of man, was so fervently bent to visit that famous Oracle of Jupiter, whom either he believed, or de∣sired that others should believe to be his Father, that nothing could withhold him in performing of that Enterprize: Therefore with such as he had ap∣pointed to accompany him in the journey, he pas∣sed by water upon the Nile, until he came to the Marish of Meotis. The Embassadours of the Cyre∣nians came to him thither, and brought him Pre∣sents; whom he gently entertained, assuring them of his Friendship; which done, he went forward in his Voyage. The first and second days travel seemed tolerable, not being yet come to the bar∣ren and desolate Wilderness; and yet the ground they passed on was but unfruitful and barren earth: but when the Plains appeared that were covered over with deep sands, they then looked round a∣bout them, and sought for Land, as men be accu∣stomed to do when they sail on the Main Sea; for they could not judge themselves on Land, where they neither saw Tree, nor any appearance of ha∣bitation, or haunt of men: And there was no wa∣ter to be found in that dry and burning place; and such as they had brought with them in Bottles upon Camels backs, was consumed and spent: Be∣sides, the Sun was so hot, that it dried and burn∣ed up all things. When they were afflicted after this manner, whether it were by the Will of God, or by chance, the Clouds suddenly overwhelmed the Sky, and so shadowed them, that it was a great

comfort unto such as were wearied with heat, though they wanted water to drink. But to sup∣ply their need, there fell by and by a great Shower, which every man (for the great desire he had to drink) gaped to receive with open mouth. When they had travelled four days in travelling these wilde Desarts, and were come near unto the place of the Oracle, there appeared a great swarm of Crows flying low before them; and when the Army marched softly, they sate down upon the ground, and sometimes flew forwards, as though they had been Guides to shew unto them the way. At length they came unto the place consecrate un∣to Jupiter, where it was a wonder to see in the midst of so wilde a Desart, a ground so environed on all parts with high Trees, defending the heat of the Sun, and such a number of Springs running every where, which caused the Woods always to look green: The Air, all seasons of the year there, is like unto the Spring-time, wholesome, and tem∣perate. This Country doth border on the Ethi∣ops, towards the East; and upon the Arabians, whom they call Troglodites, upon the South; whose Country stretched to the Red Sea: It confineth on the West with other Ethiops, which are called Simnoes. Towards the North lieth a Nation, call∣ed Nalamons, who inhabiting upon a flat shore, are accustomed to live upon the spoils of the Sea, and lye always in wait, upon the Coast, to spoil such Ships as suffer wrack: The people which inhabit about the Wood, be called Ammonians, and dwell in Cottages scattered abroad: The midst of their Wood, closed about with a triple Wall, is unto

them a Castle: In the first Ward is the Palace of their Ancient Kings; in the second their Wives, Children and Concubines were lodged; in which place the Oracle of Jupiter is also; and the third is a place for their Men of War. There is also another Wood, having a Spring, called the Fountain of the Sun; which in the morning is luke-warm, in the midst of the day cold, and in the evening warm again: at mid-night it is scalding hot; and as it draweth towards day, it diminisheth his heat more and more.

The same Effigies that is worshipped for Jupi∣ter, hath not the similitude of other Images that Crafts-•••••••• do make for gods, but is very like unto the fashion of a Navel, having in the midst thereof, an Emerald s••t about with Pearls. When any answer is required, the Priests carry the same in a Ship of Gold, that hath many Plates of Sil∣ver hanging on both sides; the Matrons and the Virgins follow after, singing a strange Song, after their Country manner; whereby they believe they do oblige Jupiter to shew his Oracle manifest and true. When Alexander was come unto the place, the Eldest of the Priests, who came to meet him, saluted him in the Name of Jupiters Son, for so (he said) his minde was that he should be called: Whereupon Alexander forgetting the state of his Mortality, said, That he did both receive and ac∣knowledge the Name. Then he demanded further, If the Empire of the whole World were appointed him by Destiny? There the Prophet, prepared be∣fore to Flattery, answered, That the whole World should come under his Obeysance. After that, he

demanded, Whether all such had suffered death that had murthered his Father? The Priest answered. That his Father could not be harmed by the Treason of any man; but he said, That all Philips Killers were put to death: And one thing he added more, That he should be Invincible, till such time as he should depart to the gods. Thereupon Alexander made Sacrifice, and both offered unto the Idol, and gave great gifts unto the Priests. He permit∣ted also his Friends to ask Counsel of the Oracle for such things as they would demand: Yet they enquired no further, but if it were Jupiters will that they should worship their King with Divine Honours? To this it was answered, T•••••• if they honoured their Victorious Prince as a god, it should be acceptable unto Jupiter. If he had with judg∣ment weighed the Oracle, he might have well per∣ceived the untruth that was therein: but whom Fortune hath brought to believe in her, she ma∣keth them, many times, more desirous of glory, then able to receive it. Alexander not only suffered, but commanded himself to be called the Son of Jupiter: and whilest he went about to encrease the Fame of his Acts, he did corrupt and deface them with such vanity: and the Macedons, accustomed to be governed by Kings, but yet reserving a greater shadow of Liberty then other Nations, did with∣stand him more obstinately in affecting of his Im∣mortality, then was either expedient for him or them. But these things shall be declared in time convenient: I will proceed to declare the rest of his Acts.

When Alexander was returned from Hammon,

and come to the Marish of Meotis, scituate near unto the Isle of Pharos, he viewed the nature of the place, and was at the first determined to build a City within the Island: But afterwards, consider∣ing the Isle not to be large enough, he chose out the ground where Alexandria now standeth (call∣ed by the name of the Builder) containing all that ground between the Mear and the Sea; the walls whereof were in compass eighty furlongs. When he had taken order for the building of this City, leaving such behinde him as he had appointed for the performance thereof, he departed unto Mem∣phis. He had a desire (not unreasonable, if it had been in time convenient) to have seen both the inward parts of Egypt, and also of Ethiopia; and the affection he had to view Antiquities, and the famous places of Mamnon and Tyton, had near drawn him beyond the bounds of the Sun. But the Wars he had in hand being of much more im∣portance then any such idle Peregrination, gave him no time to fulfil his fantasie; therefore he ap∣pointed Aestilus a Rhodian, and Peucestes a Mace∣don, to the Government of Egypt, assigning them four thousand Souldiers for defence of the Coun∣try; and gave Polymen thirty Galleys to keep the Mouth of Nile. He made Apollonius Ruler of that part of Africa which joyneth unto Egypt; and Cleo∣mines Receiver of the Tributes in both Countries. This new City was soon replenished with a great multitude; for Commandment was given to all Countries thereabouts, to send Inhabitants unto Alexandria. It is said, that when the King, accord∣ing to the Macedons Custom, used the Ceremo∣ny

of steeping Barley at the raising of the Walls, the Birds came and fed thereupon; which being taken by many for an unlucky Token, it was an∣swered by their Diviners, That there should be great resort of strangers to that City, and that it should give nourishment to many Lands. As the King went down the River of Nile, Hector, the Son of Parmenio, desirous to follow him, was drowned; for the Vessel that carried him sunk, being crowd∣ed with over-many men: He strived long with the Stream, but his garments gave impediment to his swimming, so that his breath was near gone before he could recover the shore, where for want of suc∣cour he died; whose unfortunate chance Alexander took grievously, as one that did bear him special favour; and therefore caused his body to be ho∣nourably buried.

The death of Andromachus, Lieutenant of Sy∣ria, whom the Samaritans had burned alive, was the increase of Alexanders sorrow, for the revenge∣ment whereof he made all the haste he could; and at his coming into Samaria, had the Authors of the act delivered into his hands, whom he put to death, and then placed Memnon in Andromachus Room. He delivered into the Methinians hands, Aristonicus and Crijolaus, who usurped over them, whom they after many grievous torments did hang over their walls: That done, he gave Audience to the Embassadours of the Athenians, the Rhodians, and the Scots. The Athenians did gratifie unto him his Victory; and required, that such Greeks as were taken prisoners might be restored to liberty: The Rhodians, and the Scots, complained of their

Garrisons: He granted to them all their requests, and restored to the Mytelens all their Pledges, en∣creased their Territory and Dominion, in respect of the fidelity they shewed unto him, and gave them security for the money they had imployed in the Wars. He gave honour also, according to their de∣servings, unto the Kings of Cyprus, who revolted from Darius unto him, and had aided him with Ships at the Siege of Tyre: Amphoterus, his Admi∣ral, had Commission to drive the Persians out of the Isle of Creet; but especially, that he should rid the Seas of Pyrates, who troubled and spoiled all the Islands, whilest these two Princes, Alexander and Darius, converted their Powers the one against the other.

Having ordered these things, he did dedicate to Hercules, at Tyre, a great standing Goblet, and thirty Bowls of Gold: That done, he set his whole minde and care upon Darius, causing it to be pro∣claimed, that every man should set forwards to∣wards Euphrates. But Darius understanding that his Enemy was gone through Egypt into Africa, stood in doubt whether he should stay about Meso∣potamia, or withdraw into the inner parts of his Kingdom; judging, that he in person should pre∣vail with those remote Nations, in bringing of them forwards to the War, which his Lieutenants should not be so well able to effect: Yet when Fame had published, and he understood by assured advertise∣ment, that Alexander was returned out of Egypt, and fully resolved to follow him with all his power into what Country soever he should go; he then gave order, that the force of all the furthest Nations

should draw towards Babylon, knowing the resolu∣tion of his Enemy he had to match withal. Thi∣ther resorted both Bactrians, Scythians, and Indi∣ans; (for the power of other Countries were come thither before) and having the double number of men that he had before in Cilicia, he prepared Ar∣mour for them with diligence, of which many of them wanted: both Horsemen and Horses were armed with plates of Steel; such as before had no Weapons but Darts, had Swords and Bucklers gi∣ven unto them; and to increase the power of his Horsemen, he delivered many Horses to be mana∣ged and broken by the Footmen. He had prepa∣red also two hundred Waggons set with Hooks, which in those Countries were esteemed things of great force, and judged to be of a wonderful terrour to the Enemy: they were made with great long Spikes sticking out before, and with Swords set overthwart on both sides: The Wheels were also full of Iron Pikes right forth, and of great Hooks both upward and downward, wherewith all things were cut in sunder that came in their way. When his people were thus furnished with Armour, and provided sufficiently for the Wars, he removed from Babylon, keeping the River of Ty∣gris on his right hand, and Euphrates on his left hand: He overspread, with his Army, all the Plains of Mesopotamia, after that he had passed the River of Tygris; and understanding that his Enemy was approaching, he sent Satropaces before with a thou∣sand chosen Horsemen, and afterwards appointed six thousand to Mazeus, to stop Alexander in the passage over the River; who had also Commission

to waste and burn all the Country where he judg∣ed his enemies should come, thinking to famish them for want of victuals, considering that they had no other provisions but what they got by plun∣dering and by stealth; they themselves having plenty brought of all things, both by Land and the River Tygris. At length he came to a village cal∣led Arbella, which afterwards was famous by rea∣son of his overthrow. There he left the greatest part of his Victuals and Carriage, and made a Bridge over the River of Licus, and in five days conveyed over his Army, as he had done before over Euphrates: passing forwards from thence a∣bout fourscore furlongs, he came to another City called Boumello, and there encamped. This Coun∣try served wonderful well for aranging of his Bat∣tels in the large Plains, passable for Horses every∣where, and without shrubs, or short brush to cover the ground withal, having so free a prospect, that the eye might discern things a great way off. And if there appeared any Hills within the Plain, Darius caused the same to be cast down, and to be made le∣vel to the ground. Such as by conjecture made re∣port to Alexander of Darius power, could not be cre∣dited; for he could not think after so many slain, there could be a greater power gathered together then he had before.

But he that doubted not any peril, much less the multitude of them, after the eleventh encamping came to the River of Euphrates, over the which he made Bridges, passing over his horsemen, and af∣terwards his footmen. For Mazeus that was sent against him with six thousand horsemen to hinder

his passage, durst not encounter him. When he had continued there a few days, not only to rest his Soul∣diers, but also to confirm their mindes, and to encourage them, he set forwards resolutely against his enemies, fearing that they would have retired back into the inward parts of Persia, where he should have been inforced to follow them by waste places and desarts. Therefore the fourth day he passed by Arbella, and came to the River of Tygris. All the Country beyond the River was on a smoak, newly set on fire by Mazeus, who burned all things where he came, even as he had been an enemy. A∣lexander at the first, by reason of the darkness of the smoak, stayed for fear of Ambushments. But when they which were sent to scour the Country, reported that all things were clear, he appointed a few horsemen to prove the passage of the River, who found the deepness at the first entry to come to the horse breast, and in the midst of the stream to the horse neck. There is no River in all the East-part of the world that runneth so violently, which besides that the waters of other Rivers do run into it, driveth down stones with the stream; so that of its swift∣ness it is called Tygris, which in the Persian tongue is to say an Arrow. The footmen thereof divided into two Bands, and holding their Armour over their heads, were inclosed on both sides with the horsemen, and so passed, till they came to the deep of the channel, without any great difficulty. The King was the first amongst the footmen that passed over to the further side, who (with his hand, seeing his voice could not be heard) shewed the shallow places unto the Souldiers. But they had much to do

to keep their footing, by reason of the stones where∣upon they stumbled, and of the violence of the water that took their feet away. Such as carried burthens on their backs had the greatest travel, not being able to stay themselves by reason of the trou∣ble of their carriage, were born down by violence of the stream. And whilest every man went about to recover again his own, there ••ell greater strife amongst themselves, then they had with the stream; and the heaps of fardels that every where flowed upon the water, bare down many of them. The King cryed to them, that it was sufficient to keep their arms, and let the rest go, promising to recom∣pence every man: but they neither followed his counsel, nor did as he commanded them; for be∣sides the noise that was amongst them, Fear filled their ears as they were swimming and wading through the water. At length where the stream was most shallow they came forth, there being nothing miscarried or wanting amongst them all, saving a few fardles. If their enemies had made but a prof∣fer against them, they might easily have been put to distress. But Alexander's good fortune turned his e∣nemies away from him, with which success he pas∣sed the River of Granike, when so many thousands of horsemen and footmen kept the passage against him. After that manner he overcame the multitude of his enemies in the Streights▪ of Cilicia. Though his hardiness were such, that it sometimes wanted praise, yet his felicity ever delivered him out of all extremity of peril.

If Mazeus had done his part, and set upon them as they were passing the River, he might ea∣sily

have put them to distress, being unarmed and out of order; but after the Macedons had armed themselves (being then too late) he began to sh••w himself with a thousand Horsemen. When Alex∣ander perceived the small number that came a∣gainst him, he caused Ariston Captain of the Peo∣nians to give a full charge upon th••n. The Horse∣men that day notably behaved themselves, but especially Ariston, who with his Sp••ar ran Satro∣paces the chief Captain through the throat, and pursuing him into the midst of his Troop, thr••w him from his horse, and cut off his head, which to his great commendation he brought and thr••w down before the King. Alexander ta••ried there two days, and on the morning caused warning to be given by Proclamation for his setting forwards. But in the first watch of the night the Moon suffer∣ed an Eclipse; and losing her brightness, became afterwards red as blood, and then waxed dim and dark: The strangeness of this sight did strike a re∣ligious fear amongst the Macedons, whereof pro∣ceeded such a doubt and d••••ad, that they fell in∣to a murmuring, why they should be brought for∣wards in such a manner against the will of the gods into the uttermost bounds of the Earth, where they could neither pass the Rivers, nor enjoy the ac∣customed use of the Elements, finding nothing but waste grounds and wilde desarts▪ all which was endured (they said) for the ambition of one man; for whose vain-glory the blood of so many thou∣sands should be shed. He despiseth (saith they) his own Country, he hath forsaken Philip for his Fa∣ther, and hath affected Heaven in his foolish ima∣gination.

And now it was come near unto sedi∣tion, when Alexander, that in all things was with∣out fear, commanded the chief Rulers and Cap∣tains of his man of War to assemble at his Pavilion, and there commanded the Astronom••rs of the Egyptians (whom he judged to have most under∣standing o•• the Planets) to declare their opinions. They understanding very well the revolutions of the time, and their appointed courses, kn••w that the Moon was ever eclipsed, when that either she was underneath the earth, or else when her light was bl••mished by opposition of the Sun; which reason reserved amongst themselves, they accustome not to acquaint the people with it. But affirm that the Greeks were under the Aspect of the Sun, and the Persians under the Moon: and therefore so of∣ten as the Moon ••••••leth of her light, it signifi••d great destruction unto the Nations under that con∣stellation. And to confirm that opinion of theirs, they brought in old Presidents of the Kings of Per∣sia, to whom the eclipse of the Moon had signified that the gods were against them in sighting of their Battel. There is nothing more effectual then superstition to govern a multitude, which otherwise is without rule, tumultuous, and mu∣table: but when they have once conceived a reli∣gion, though it be but vain, they are more obe∣dient to their Diviners, then to their Captains; which thing might be well perceived, when the answers of the Egyptians were divulged amongst the people. For they streightways were removed from their dulness and despair, and stirred up to hope and confidence.

Alexander therefore that could use the time, and imploy his Souldiers in their good mood, in the se∣cond watch removed their camp, keeping Tygris on his right hand, and the Mountains which they call Gordian on his left: By break of day the Scouts that he sent before to discover the enemy, returned to him with report of Darius his coming: then the Souldiers prepared themselves to fight, and marched forwards in order of battel. But those who were discoverers for the Persians were a thousand horse∣men, who seemed to the Macedons to be a great Army. The Scouts commonly have that property, that when they cannot finde out the truth, they i∣magine through fear things that be false. When Alexander understood the certainty, he sent towards them a small number of his own horsemen, at whose coming they fled, and were partly slain, and part of them taken prisoners. That done, he sent forth another party, as well to discover further, as also to quench the fire which the Persians had made through all the Country; for as they fled away they put fire into the roofs of their houses, and the stacks of Corn, which soon took hold above, and consumed all, till it came to the ground. By the extinguishing of those fires, great plenty of Corn was preserved, and abundance of all other things en∣sued amongst the Macedons▪ this was a motive which incouraged the Souldiers greatly to pursue their enemies▪ for they doubting that they might burn and consume all such things as might serve to their use, pursued them with all the speed they could make providence growing from necessity. For Ma∣zeus, who before did burn the Country at leisure,

when he saw himself pursued, fled away, and left un∣to the Macedons the greater part untouched.

Alexander understanding that Darius drew to∣wards him, and was come within an hundred and fifty furlongs, made provision of Victuals, and remained four days in the same place. Darius Let∣ters were there intercepted, which he had written to the Greeks, in perswasion either to kill or be∣tray Alexander. He doubted whether he should re∣cite the same Letters openly, or no, having no mi∣strust of their fidelity and affection towards him. But Parmenio disswaded him from acquainting the Souldiers with any such promises of Darius, con∣sidering that the committing of such an act con∣sisted in one mans hands, and that covetousness never judged any thing unlawful. He followed Parmenio's counsel, and so removed his Camp. As they were marching, one of the Eunuches that at∣tended upon Darius wife, brought word how she fainted, and was in great peril of death; for she in very deed was so wearied with continual tra∣vel and affection of minde, that she fell down in a swound betwixt her mother-in-law and her young daughter, and so died. He had no sooner reported it, but another came with tydings that she was dead indeed: whereat Alexander was no less sor∣rowful than if his own mother had been in the same condition; and weeping no less then Darius should have done, he repaired into the Tent where Darius mother was sitting by the dead body: his sorrow there renewed, when he saw her lie prostrate upon the ground, that present misfortune calling to minde her passed calamities: she took in her arms

Darius two Daughters, a comfort to her in their mutual dolour, but that she was enforced to com∣fort them. Her young Grand-child stood in her presence, the more to be pitied, because that for his youth he yet understood not the calamity that was growing on him. A man would have thought, that Alexander had wept for his own cause; he la∣mented and would receive no comfort, but abstained from meat, and commanded all honour to be done to the dead corps after the Country-custome of the Persians. Worthy he was thereby to receive the due reward of his meekness and continency. He had only seen her once before, which was on the day she was taken, and then came not to visit her, but Darius mother; the excellency of her beauty was no provokement to him of lust, but of glory. Of those Eunuches that were about the Queen, there was one Tyriotes, who during this lamenta∣tion escaped by a Gate that was unwarded, and fled unto the Persians Camp, where he was by the Watchmen brought to Darius presence▪ When Da∣rius saw him lamenting and tearing his cloaths, he was in a labouring expectation what his sorrow should be, doubting what thing he might fear most. Thy countenance (quoth he) declareth that some great mischief is happened: Take he••d thou conceal nothing from my miserable ears: I have learn'd to be unfortu∣nate, and it's often-times a comfort to a man in his calamity to know his mishap. Is it not the misusing of my wife and children▪ that thou wouldest inform me with? Which is the thing that I suspect most, and fear to utter; and which (as I believe) is also most grievous unto them. Nothing less (quoth Tyri••tes) the same

honour that was given unto them by your Subjects, the like is used by him that is the Conquerour: But your wife is the cause of my amazement, who is e∣ven now dead.

When that word was once spoken, there was nothing but lamentation and mourning throughout the Camp; and Darius could not be otherwise per∣swaded, but that she was slain, because she would not consent to her misusement; and in the vehemency of his sorrow, cried out:

O Alexander, what so great an offence have I com∣mitted against thee? Whom of thy kindred have I slain, that thou shouldest requite me with this cruelty? Thou hast done it without any provokement of my part. But be it so that thou dost move a just war against me, is it thy part therefore to make war with women?

Tyriotes thereupon did swear by the immortal gods, that there was no kinde of villany done un∣to her, but that Alexander lamented her death, and wept no less then he himself would have done. Those words did drive him into a further suspicion and jealousie, conjecturing that Alexander's beha∣viour had proceeded from the familiar conversation had betwixt them. Therefore he commanding all persons from him saving only Tyriotes, that lyes can take no place, Torments streightways shall be brought before thee: I require thee therefore, if any reverence of thy Prince remain within thy heart, tell me without compulsion the thing that I desire to know, and am ashamed to enquire. Is it possible, being of the age that he is, and ha∣ving her in his hands, that he should not attempt her? Tyriotes offered himself to be racked in tryal

of the cause, and called the gods to witness, that she was never used but chastly and reverently. At length, when he was throughly perswaded that his words were true; he covered his face, weeping a long space, and afterwards the tears yet distilling down his cheeks, uncovered it, and holding up his hands to Heaven, said:

O you gods whom I worship, I require you chiefly to establish this Kingdom unto my self: but if you have determined my ruine and decay, then my request is, that none may reign as King in my Dominion, but even he that is so just an Enemy, and so merciful a Conque∣rour.

And therefore, though he had twice before re∣quired peace at Alexander's hands, and prevailed not, but had converted all his minde towards the Wars; yet he was then so overcome with the conti∣nency of his enemy, that he sent twelve of the chiefest of his blood as Ambassadours to treat with him upon conditions of peace: Alexander calling a Councel, gave them audience, to whom the eldest spake in this manner:

That Darius hath now the third time demanded peace of you, no power hath compelled him, but your justice and continency hath invited him unto it. He cannot perceive that either his Mother, his Wife, or Children were prisoners, saving for the want of their company. You take care of their chastities which re∣main alive, like a Father; You give to them the honour appertaining to them, and suffer them to continue in their former estate. I see that sadness in your counte∣nance which I saw in Darius when I parted from him, and yet he doth mourn for his Wife, and you for your

Enemie: and if the care of her burial had not been, you had now stood in Battel in readiness to fight against him. Is it any marvel therefore if he require peace of such a man, that is so friendly disposed towards him? What shall they need to contend with arms, between whom there remaineth no hatred? In his former Trea∣ty he offered that the River of Alys, which boundeth upon Lydia, should be the Confines of your Empire: but now he proffereth you in Dower with his Daughter to be delivered out of hand all those Countries that lie be∣tween Hellespont and Euphrates. For the perfor∣mance of which his Promise, and for the observing of Peace, Occhus his Son now in your possession shall be the pledge for his part. His request is, to have his Mo∣ther and his two Daughters restored unto him, for which you shall receive thirty thousand Talents. Ex∣cept I knew the moderation that is in you, I would not be so bold to say that this is a time when you ought not only to grant peace, but also to seek for it your self: Look back and behold what a great thing you leave be∣hinde you, and foresee how much it is that you covet be∣fore you. An Empire over great is dangerous, and it is hard to hold that which you are not able to receive. Do you not see, that th••se Ships which be of exceeding greatness, cannot well be governed? Judge that to be the cause that Darius lost so much, because that over∣much is the occasion of much less: It is more easie to get many things, then to keep a few. How much more easily do our Hands catch, then hold fast? The very Death of Darius wise now doth shew, that you have not so great occasion to shew mercy as you had before.

The Embassadours did withdraw into another place, and he debated in Councel his opinion. It

was long before any durst utter what they thought, because they were uncertain how the King was in∣clined: at length Parmenio spake, and said:

My opinion was ever, that the prisoners taken at Damascus should have been delivered to such as would redeem them, whereby a great sum of mo∣ney might have been made of them, who now re∣maining in captivity, trouble the hands of many a man of service. And now I think most necessary of all, that you exchange for thirty Talents of Gold, this old Woman, and the two young Dam∣zels, which be but impediments and disturbance to your marches. Here is a rich Realm to be got∣ten by Treaty, without any hazard of Battel. For there was never any before you (quoth he) that was Lord of all the Countries in length and bredth lying between Ister and Euphrates. He willed him therefore rather to have respect towards Macedonia, then to look forward towards Bactria and the In∣dians.

These words liked not the King; and therefore so soon as Parmenio had made an end of his Speech, he made this answer: And if I were Parmenio, I would rather desire Money, then Glory. But now seeing I am Alexander, I am not in any doubt of poverty, and have in consideration, that I am a King, and no Merchant: I have nothing whereof I will make Sale, I will much less sell my Fortune. If I were in minde to deliver the Prisoners, it were much better to give them freely, then to ransome them for money.

Hereupon he called the Embassadours, and an∣swered them in this sort:

Shew you to Darius, that giving of thanks is need∣less to an enemy, and let him not think that I have had any respect to his friendship in those things that I have done of mine own clemency and liberality. Nor let him impute the same in any wise towards himself, but to the inclination of mine own nature; and that I con∣tend not against mens calamities, but against the force of mine Enemies. I use not to make war with women and prisoners; for he must be armed to whom I shall owe my hatred. And though it were so indeed, that he meant good faith in his peace asking, yet peradven∣ture I would take advice before I would consent. But seeing that at one time he hath provoked my Souldiers to betray me, and at other times stirred up my friends with money to destroy me, I must pursue him to the uttermost▪ not as a righteous enemy, but as one that worketh his ends by treason. If I should accept the condition of peace that you do bring, I should acknowledge him to be Con∣querour. His liberality doth give me all that is behinde the River of Euphrates, not considering in what place I speak now unto you. Have you forgotten that I am passed the River of Euphrates, and incamped beyond the bounds ye pr••ffer me in Dowry? Drive me from hence, that I may know the same to be yours, wherewith you would infeoff me. He proffereth me his Daughter with no greater liberality then he would do to one of his Servants. Doth he think to do me a pleasure in pre∣ferring me to be his Son-in-law before Mazeus? Go and shew this to your King, that both what he hath lost▪ and what he hath yet in possession, shall be unto me the re∣wards of the War, which shall determine the bounds of both our Empires, and by the fortune of the battel which we shall fight to morrow, appoint to each of us

our limits. Let him know, that I came not into Asia to receive, but to give. If he would have been content to have been the second person, and not coveted to be equal with me, I would peradventure have granted his re∣quest. But as two Suns cannot shine on the Earth at once, so likewise two such great Kingdoms cannot be at one time, without the subversion of the world. There∣fore let him either this day yield himself, or else pre∣pare against the morrows fight; nor let him perswade himself to have any other fortune then what he hath proved already.

The Embassadours replied: That seeing he was resolved to proceed with War, he did Royally that he was plain unto them, and did not feed them with hope of peace. Their request was therefore that they might be dispatched to their Prince, to warn him to prepare himself likewise. When they returned, there was no way but to prepare for the fight. Wherefore Darius sent for Mazeus with three thousand horsemen to keep the passages by which the Macedons should pass. When Alexander had performed the Funerals of Darius wife, leaving a small guard behinde, with all such as were unpro∣fitable for the fight, he set forward towards his Enemies. His footmen were divided into two Bat∣tels, empaled with horsemen on both sides, and his carriages were placed in the midst. He sent Medinas with horsemen upon the spurs to discover where Darius was; but he not daring to adventure far, because Mazeus was there strongly quartered, returned back and reported, that there was nothing to be heard but the noyse of men and the neighing of horses. Mazeus also (the Scouts of Alexander

being discovered) gave intelligence to Darius of the approach of the enemy: Darius, who desired to try the event of the Battel in the open Plains, commanded his Souldiers to be armed, and put his Army in array of Battel. Two thousand of the Bactrian and the Dahan horse, and four thousand of the Arachosians and Susians did make the left Wing: These were followed by a hundred hooked Chariots. Next unto them was Bessus with a thou∣sand Bactrian horse, and two thousand of the Mas∣sagetae did back him on his rear. To these the foot of many Nations, not mixed, but in distinct Regi∣ments, did joyn their formidable power: after them Ariobarzanes and Oriobates, with the Mardians and Sogdians, did bring up the Army of the Persians. This part of Darius Army was commanded in chief by Orsines, descended from seven Persian Kings, and deriving also his Original from the noble King Cy∣rus. There were other Nations that followed these, but hardly known to their own Neighbours. After whom, Cradates having fifty hooked Chariots, placed a Band of Caspian horsemen before them, and be∣hinde them were the Indians and the other inha∣biters of the red Sea, rather names of men then good assistance. This square was also empaled with the o∣ther fifty Chariots, unto the which the mercenary Souldiers were joyned: after them followed the men of Armenia the less, then the Babylonians, and next the Bellicans, with such as inhabit the Cossean Moun∣tains. The Gortuans came next, who sometime fol∣lowed the Medians out of Euboia; but at those days degenerated from their Country-customs. The P••••ygi∣ans, Cathonians and Parthians did close the rear.

In the Battel on the right hand were the people of the greater Armenia, the Cadusians, Cappa∣docians and Medians, who had fifty hooked Cha∣riots: the sum of his whole Army was forty five thousand horsemen, and two hundred thousand footmen. When they were placed in order of Bat∣tel, they marched forward ten furlongs, and then were commanded to make a halt. Whilest the Per∣sians after that manner tarried for their Enemies, there fell a sudden fear amongst the Macedons, whereof there appeared no cause; and yet every man was amazed, and a secret dread entred into their hearts. The lightning that fell out of the air, it being in the Summer-season, seemed like fire, and the flames suddenly appearing were thought to come from Darius Camp. If Mazeus, who was sent out to observe their coming, had set upon them while they were in this fear, he might have performed some notable act. But he was slow in the enterprize, and remained upon the top of an Hill, contented that he was not assailed.

Alexander perceiving the terrour that invaded his Souldiers, made a signe for them to slay, and gave order that they should unarm themselves, and refresh their bodies; giving them to understand, that there was not any cause why they should en∣tertain so vain a fear, seeing their Enemies were yet a good distance from them. At length, when he perceived they had recovered their spirits, he exhorted them to receive courage, and put on their armour; but yet he thought nothing more expe∣dient then to fortifie his Camp in the same place. The next day Mazeus, who had planted himself on

a high Hill, from whence he might behold his E∣nemies Camp, either for fear, or else because his Commission was but only to discover the motion of his Enemies, returned again unto Darius. Up∣on his departure, the Macedons immediately pos∣sessed themselves of the Hill which he had forsa∣ken, the same being of more strength then the Plain where they remained before, from whence they might behold their Enemies Camp. And though the Mist which the moist Hills did cast forth, took not away clearly the use of their prospect, yet it hindred them to discern the division of their Enemies Battels, and their order: their multitude overspread the fields; and the noise of their num∣ber did fill their ears, though they were far off. Then Alexander begun to revolve in his minde, and to debate with himself one while Parmenio's Opinion, and another time his own; for he was come so far forth, that he could not retire, except he were Victorious, without the great destructi∣on of his Army. The multitude of his Enemies moved him much, in respect of his small numbers: Yet on the other part, remembred what great Acts he had done with them, and how many Nations he had vanquished: So that his hope surmounting his fear, he thought it of all most dangerous to de∣fer the Battel any longer, lest desperation should grow amongst his men; and therefore dissembling the matter, he caused the Mercenary Horsemen, and the Peons, to pass on before, and divided his Phalanx (as it hath been said) into two Battels, and impaled the same with Horsemen on both sides. By that time the Mist vanished, and it wax∣ing

clear, the order of his Enemies manifestly ap∣pe••red.

The Macedons then, whether it were of courage, or for that they were impatient to tarry any lon∣ger, made such a shout as men of War use when they joyn in Battel: The like was also made by the Persians. Then the Woods and Valleys rebounded with the terrible sound: The Macedons could not abstain any longer, but would have gone forwards towards their Enemies: But Alexander thought it better to fortifie his Camp upon that Hill; and so commanded it to be intrenched about: Which work being speedily performed, he entred into his Tent, from whence he might behold the Field Marshalled, and the whole Army of his Enemies embattelled; then the fashion and form of the dan∣ger that was at hand, was presented before his eyes; both Horsemen and Footmen glistered in their bright Armour, and all things were prepared with extraordinary diligence. He beheld the care of the Captains in his Enemies Camp, how they did ride up and down to set things in order: And ma∣ny things that were but vain indeed (as the noise of Men, the neighing of Horses, and the glistering of their Armour) troubled yet the minde that was careful in expectation of the event: Therefore whe∣ther it were that he was not fully resolved in his minde, or else to prove the resolutions of such as were about him, a Councel of War was called to advise what was best to do. Parmenio, who was the most experienced among all the Captains in the feats of War, thought it good not to give his Ene∣mies open Battel, but rather to set upon them in

the dead time of the night, whereby he thought they might easily be discomfited; supposing, that they among whom there was such diversity of Cu∣stoms, and alteration of Language, could never rally well together, especially when in the dead of night they should have their quarters beaten up; whereas in the day time, the shape of the Scythians and Bactrians, with their rough faces, and long hair, beside the hugeness of their bodies, should appear terrible. He alledged, how Souldiers were more moved with the vain causes of fear, and such as were of no moment, then with such as were just causes indeed. He declared also, how their Ene∣mies, by reason of their great multitude, should be able to inclose their small number round about; and that they should not now fight in the Streights, and narrow passages of Cilicia, but in an open and large Plain.

They all, in a manner, agreed to Parmenio; and Polipercon was directly of Opinion, that the Victory consisted on the following of that counsel. The King, that before had upbraided Parmenio more bit∣terly then was expedient, would not check him a∣gain, but beheld Polipercon, and said:

That Policy that you advise me, pertaineth to Rob∣bers and Felons, for it is their propriety to work by darkness and deceit; I will no more suffer, that either Darius absence, the streightness of the ground, or the stealth in the night, shall be an hinderance to my glo∣ry. I am plainly determined to fight with him in the open day; and had rather repent me of my Fortune, then he ashamed of my Victory: Besides, this is to be considered, that the Persians keep good Watch, and

stand armed always in a readiness to receive us, whereof I have advertisement, so that they cannot be deceived that way; therefore there doth remain no more, but that you prepare your selves to the Bat∣tel.

When he had by these words put them into cou∣rage, he dismissed them from Counsel, to refresh their bodies. Darius conjecturing, that his Enemies would have done that which Parmenio did per∣swade, caused the Horses to stand ready bridled the whole night, and the most part of his Host to continue armed, and to keep good watch. His Camp shone bright with the fires that were made, and he himself, with his Captains and Kinsfolks, went about his Souldiers that stood in order and in Arms, making invocation to the Sun, to Mars, and to the Everlasting Fire, that they would inspire into them a fortitude of minde, that might an∣swer to the Ancient Glory, and the Acts of their Predecessors: And declared, if the minde of man were able to conceive any tokens or signes of the gods favour or assistance, it was no doubt but that they were bent on their side, having already stricken a sudden fear amongst the Macedons, which (he said) might be seen by their running here and there, by the carrying and casting off their Ar∣mour; and that the gods, which took care of the Persians Empire, were now determined to punish 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cowards, whose Captains (quoth he) being of no other sort then the rest, are like unto those wilde Beasts, which through the greediness of the 〈…〉〈…〉 they do covet, do fall into the snares that are set for them.

The like care was amongst the Macedons; for as though the matter should have been tryed that night, they passed it over in doubt and fear. Alexander himself (that was never seen in such fear before that time) called for Aristander to make vows and prayers; who, in a white Garment, carrying Ver∣benes in his hand, with his head covered, went be∣fore the King, calling upon Jupiter, Minerva, and Victoria. When he had thus performed his Sacri∣fice, according to their Religion, he returned in∣to his Pavilion to rest the residue of the night; yet he could neither rest, nor sleep, but continually de∣bated with himself, which way he should assail his Enemies: One while he was of Opinion, to give his first On-set upon that Battel of the Persians that should come on his right hand, sometimes he de∣termined to meet his Enemies in the very front, and otherwhile whether it were better to encounter them on their left Battel. At length his body be∣came heavy with the travel of his minde, and he fell into a sound sleep▪ When the day appeared, the Captains assembled about the Kings Pavilion, to receive their charge, where they stood amazed at the unaccustomed silence: For they could not but wonder, that he who was ever wont to call up∣on other men, and to reprove such as were slow or negligent, not to be then stirring in the extre∣mity of the utmost danger: And many were of opinion, that he slept not, but shrunk for fear; yet for all that, none of them that were about his per∣son durst attempt to wake him. In the mean sea∣son••▪ the morning past away, and the Souldiers might neither put on their Armour, nor stand in

order of Battel, without commandment of their Chief. When they had thus tarried a great while, Parmenio gave commandment that they should fall to meat. At length, when the time came, that of necessity the Army must be drawn into Battel, he entred into the Kings lodging, and called upon him divers times by his name: but when he could not awake him with his voice, he stirred him with his hand, and said:

It is far forth day, and your Enemies come forwards in order of Battel, and your Souldiers being yet un∣armed, have not commandment given them what they should do: Where is that chearfulness and courage of yours become, which were wont to stir up even those who were most watchful?

Alexander made answer unto him:

Think you that I could sleep before that I had rid my self of the care that hindred me to take my rest? And thereupon caused the Trumpet to sound to the Battel.

But when Parmenio continued still in his admira∣tion, that he in such a time could sleep so quietly: It is no marvel (quoth Alexander) when Darius burn∣ed the Country, wasted the Villages, and destroyed the Victuals, I could then in no wise be quiet: But now what cause have I to fear, seeing he now prepa∣reth himself to fight? He hath now fulfilled my de∣sire; resort you where your charge lieth, and I will straightway come to give order amongst you, and we will dispute this business afterwards.

He used seldom to take his friends advice when any doubt or danger was at hand. When Parmenio was gone, he armed himself, and came forwards

amongst his Souldiers: They seeing him look so chearfully as they had not seen before time, con∣ceived by the courage of his countenance a certain hope of the Victory: Then he caused the Trenches of his Camp to be cast down, that the Souldiers might have free passage forth; and in this manner did set his Battels in order. The Horsemen, of whom Clitus was Captain, were set in the wing on his right-hand Battel, to whom he joyned Philotas, and other Captains. The last Band of Horsemen was Meleagers, which were next unto the square Battel of Footmen, that the Macedons name Pha∣lanx: After the Phalanx, followed the Agaraspi∣des, of whom Nicanor, the Son of Parmenia, was Captain: Cenus, with his Band, was appointed to be a Relief: Horestes and Lincestes advanced next; and after them Polipercon, that had the Rule of the Strangers; and Phylagus, who had the Rule of the Balacrons: And this was the order of Alexan∣ders Battel in the right wing, whereof Amintas was Chief.

In the left Battel, Craterus had the charge of the Peloponnesian Horsemen; and with him also were the Bands of the Achaians, Locrensians, and Ma∣laeans; and the hindmost Troops were the Horse∣men of Thessaly, under Philip their Captain. Thus the Horsemen covering the Foot, made the Front of the Battel: And lest their Enemies, through their multitude, should inclose the Battel about, he planted a great Force behinde for a Reserve, and set a Relief also upon the Wings; not in Front with the rest, but upon the sides, to the intent, that if the Enemies attempted to compass round

about the Battels, they should be ready to keep them in action.

Those that maintained the places of Reserves, were the Agrians, of whom Attalus was Captain, and the Archers of Creet were joyned unto them: Such as stood in the Rear of the Battel, were or∣dered to turn their faces from the Frontwards, be∣cause that being in a readiness every way, the Bat∣tels in every place should be of an equal force. They which stood with their faces contrariwise, were the Illyrians, and the Mercenary Souldiers, with the Th••acians that were light armed. These his Battels were so aptly set to move every way, that such as stood in the hinder parts could not be inclo∣sed about, but might every way make their Front; so the Front, the Flanks, and the Rear, were all of like force. When he had set his men in order after this manner, he gave Commandment, that if the Persians should attempt upon them with their Hook∣ed Waggons with a cry, or noise, that then they should open their Battels, and receive them with silence, not doubting but that they should pass through without any harm, if no man did resist them: But if they should come without any shout or clamour, that then they themselves should make a cry to fear the Horses withal; and so with Pikes thrust them through on every side. They which had the charge of Battels, were commanded to extend them so much in bredth as possible they might, lest by standing over-close, they might be environed; and yet not to stretch them so far out, as to leave the Ranks void, and thin in the midst. The Carriage, and the Prisoners (amongst whom

Darius Mother was one) were set in the top of an Hill, with a small Guard about them. The charge of the left Battel was committed unto Parmenio, as was accustomed before-time, and Alexander himself was in the Main Body.

When they were drawn near to one another, one Byon came flying from the Persian Hoast in a full gallop, and declared unto the King, that Darius had planted iron Galtops where he thought his Horsemen should pass; and by a certain signe, shew∣ed him the place, because it might be avoided: Alexander willed the Fugitive to be kept safe, and assembled all his Captains together, declaring the matter, and exhorting them to make their Soul∣diers privy to the danger, for eschewing the place pointed out to them: But all that were in so great an Army could not hear the warning given, the noise of both Armies taking away the use of the ears. But Alexander riding betwixt the Battels, gave Exhortation to the Captains, and to all other that were within hearing.

He declared, that there was but one hazard re∣maining to them that had passed through so many Countries in hope of the Victory, which they were now ready to fight for: Thereupon he reduced to their memory the Battels they had fought at the River of Granike, in the Mountains of Cilicia; and with what speed they had passed over both Syria and Egypt: The rehearsal whereof put them in great hope, and did intice them forwards to the desire of glory. He shewed, that the Persians be∣ing withdrawn from their former flying, were now compelled to fight of necessity, because they could

fly no further; and how that three days together, amazed for fear, they had remained still in one place with their Armour on their backs; of whose despair (he said) there could be no greater argu∣ment, then that they had set on fire their own Country, confessing all to be their Enemies that they destroyed not. He exhorted them not to fear the vain name of unknown Nations; for it was a thing nothing pertinent, which were called Scy∣thians, or which Caducians; for being unknown Nations, it was a sure token that they were men of no valour, because such as be valiant could ne∣ver be unknown in the world: And contrariwise, Dastards, when they come forth of their D••ns, bring nothing with them but names of men; whereas you (quoth he) that be Macedons, have obtained by your Vertue and Manhood, that there is no Coun∣try in the world ignorant of your Acts. He wil∣led them to behold the evil order that was in their Enemies Host, of whom some had no weapon but a Dart, others a Sling to cast stones, and very few had such Armour as they ought to have: So that though there was a great number on the other part, yet he said, they had more on their side when they should come to fight hand to hand; and that for his part he would not require any man to adventure himself, except he were an example to him of For∣titude and Courage; for he assured them, that he would be seen fighting with the foremost, knowing that so many wounds as he should get, should be so many ornaments to his person: He said, they themselves knew that he would be no partaker of the prey; but that it was ever his custom, to be∣stow

the rewards of his Victory upon the Souldi∣ers. His former words he shewed to be spoken to men of courage; but if any were of another tem∣per, he was to inform them, that they were come unto the place from whence they could not fly, ha∣ving left so many Countries behinde them which they had passed over, and so many Rivers and Mountains at their backs; so that now there was no way to their own houses and Native Country, but such as they must make open with their own hands.

This was the Exhortation he gave unto the Cap∣tains, and to such of the Souldiers as were next unto him. Darius, that was in his left-hand Battel, accompanied with a choice Band of Horsemen and of Footmen, despised the small number of his Ene∣mies, their Battels appearing to him thin, and void of men, when he saw their Wings stretched so far abroad: He stood therefore on his Chariot on high, and turning himself both on the right hand and the left, he spake in this manner to such as were about him:

We that were not long since Lords of all the Coun∣tries lying between Hellespont and the Ocean Sea, are compelled now to fight, not for Fame and Glory, but for our Safeguard, and our Liberty, which chiefly is to be esteemed: This day shall either establish or make an end of the greatest Empire that hath been in any Age. At the River of Granike we fought with a small part of our Power: When we were vanquished in Ci∣licia, Syria was able to receive us, and the Rivers of Tygris and Euphrates were as Bull-warks to defend our Kingdom: But now we are come to that extremity,

that we have no place to fly unto if we be put to flight: All things behinde our backs are wasted with this long War; neither Cities are inhabited, nor men left to till the ground: Our Wives and our Children do follow this Army, a prey ready for our Enemies, except we put our bodies for the defence of such as be dear unto us. So much as hath concerned me, I have performed, preparing such an Army as this huge Plain is able to receive. I have distributed amongst you Horse and Armour▪ providing that Victuals should not be wanting for such a multitude, and have cho∣sen an apt place to arange our Battels in: All the rest remaineth in your hands; do but dare to fight, and the Victory is yours; and despise you the Fame of the Enemy, which is but a weak weapon against men of Valour: It is rashness which hitherto ye have feared as a Vertue, whereof when the first brunt is spent, it wax∣eth dull, as are Drones having once lost their stings. This Plain hath disclosed their small number, which the Mountains of Cilicia did hide: You see how emp∣ty their Ranks are, how thin their Wings be extended abroad, how their Battels be empty and void of men, and such as are in the Rear have already turned their backs: They may be overthrown with your Horses feet, though I send none against them but the Hooked Wag∣gons: And if we win the Battel, we make an end of the War, for they have no place to fly to: They are shut in with Tygris on the one side, and with Euphrates on the other; and such things as before made for their purpose, now are turned, and do make clear against them: Our Army is light, and without much Baggage, and they are laden with preys and booties; we shall kill them as they are wrapt in spoils: And the same

one thing shall be both our gain and the cause of our Vi∣ctory. If any of you be moved with the Fame of the Nation, you must think that the Armour, with the out∣ward shew, and not the bodies of the Macedons, are there present; we have consumed so much of their blood since the War began: And seeing they are but few, their loss must needs be to them the greater. For how great soever Alexander doth seem to them that are Co∣wards, he is but a man, and if you trust me, both rash and without consideration; and hitherto more fortunate through our fear, then by his own valour. There is no∣thing can continue that is not governed by reason; for though Fortune seems to favour for a while, yet at last she will not support his rashness: Besides that, the e∣state of things are full of change, and no man hath a perpetual felicity. It may be that the providence of the gods have so ordained it, that the Empire of the Persians, encreased with such prosperous success by the space of two hundred and thirty years, and brought to so great a height of fortune, should now rather be sha∣ken, then utterly overthrown, thereby to admonish us of mans fragility, who useth to forget himself over∣much in prosperous estate. It is not long ago, since of our own motion and courage, we made War against the Grecians, and invaded their Dominions; but now we stand at defence for our own Country. Thus we are tossed one against another by change of Fortune; for one Nation cannot suffice the greatness of the Empire which we both do covet: But be it so that hope were taken from us, yet necessity ought to encourage us, the War is brought to such extremity. He keepeth now as Prisoners, both my Mother, my two Daughters, and Oc∣chus my Son, born to the succession of this Empire: He

keepeth Captive your Prince, the Issue that is descended of the Blood-Royal; yea, and your Captains equal with Kings; and if you do not now bestir your hands, I my self am like to become a Captive: Deliver you therefore my Bowels out of Prison, and restore to me my Children, for whose sake I do not refuse to die. Be you all sure, that both my Mother and my Children (for my Wife is dead in Prison) are holding up their hands, crying unto the gods, and calling for your help, your courage and fidelity, that you would free them from Servitude, from Fetters, and from the Estate they are in, living at other mens will and appointment. Think you that they can be content to live under such, as they could scarcely vouchsafe to have for their Sub∣jects? I see that our Enemies Battels do approach▪ and the nearer the danger is at hand, the less the words I have spoken do satisfie me. I make request to you by the gods of our Country, by the Eternal Fire that is carried upon their Altars, by the brightness of the Sun that riseth within the bound••s of my Empire, and by the everlasting memory of Cyrus, who did take the Empire from the Medes and Lydians, and gave it to the Persians, to deliver their Names and this Nation from shame and reproach. Go forth chearfully, have you good hope, and see that you restore to your Posteri∣ty the glory you received of your Predecessours. Behold, you carry in your hands your Liberty, your Help, our Hope in time to come. Whosoever contemneth death escapeth it, and death only overtaketh such as do flie from it. I ride here in a Chariot, not only for that it▪ is my Countries Custom, but also that I may be seen of you all: And I desir•• nothing so much, as that you will follow me, whether I shew you an example of Courage, or of Cowardliness.

In the mean season, whilest Alexander did covet to eschew the place of peril whereof he was adver∣tised, and inforced himself to encounter with Da∣rius left Battel, where he remained in person, he was compelled to fetch a compass about; whom when Darius perceived, he turned likewise his own Battel towards him; willing Bessus, to appoint the Horse of the Massagetae, to give a Charge on Alexanders left Battel. He sent before him his Hook∣ed Wagons, which by a signe given, brake sudden∣ly upon their Enemies with a full course, to the in∣tent, that by their coming unawares, they might work the greater destruction. The Pikes that were set before in the Wagons, destroyed divers, and many were torn asunder by the Hooks that were on both sides: The Macedons gave not place to them by a little and little, but troubled their Array with a main flight. When Mazeus saw their disorder, he put them in more fear, and appointed a thou∣sand Horsemen to fetch a compass about the Mace∣dons Battels to spoil their Carriage, supposing that the Prisoners which were there kept would break their Bands when they should see their own Nation approach: Parmenio, who was in the left Wing, did easily perceive it, and immediately sent Polida∣mus unto Alexander, to shew him the danger, and know his pleasure what he would have done: which when he understood by Polidamus; Go thy way (quoth he) and shew Parmenio, if we win the Battel, we shall not only recover again our own, but shall have also the Spoil of our Enemies: Therefore I would not that any part of our Force should be removed out of the Main Battel, but let him fight it out manfully,

and not regard the loss of Baggage; wherein he shall observe the Honour of me, and my Father Philip, whose Custom was to do the like.

In the mean season, the Persians were entred a∣mong the Carriages, and had slain divers that were left there in defence thereof: whereupon the pri∣soners began to unloose themselves; and taking up whatsoever came to hand, took part with the Horse∣men, and sharply assailed the Macedons; divers were so joyful, that they ran to bear tydings to Sisigambis, how Darius had won the Victory, and had overthrown his Enemies with a great slaughter, and also that their Carriages were taken, thinking the like Fortune had been every where, seeing they saw the Persians fall to spoil. And although they exhorted Sisigambis that she should leave her hea∣viness, and rejoyce, yet she continued in the same Estate she was in before, without speaking one word, or changing colour or countenance, but sate still immoveable: She was so overcome (as it was thought) with sudden joy, that she durst not stir, nor attempt Fortune; for such as did behold her, could not perceive which way she was in∣clined. In the mean season, Amintas that was Ma∣ster of the Horse to Alexander, came with a few Bands of Horsemen to relieve the Carriages; but uncertain it was whether he did it of his own head, or by the Kings appointment: He was not able to endure the force of the Cadusians and Scythians; for scarcely attempting the skirmish, he was driven back, and fled again unto Alexander, being a wit∣ness rather of the loss of the Carriages, then a Re∣scuer of the same. The grief that Alexander con∣ceived

at this matter, overcame the purpose he took before in hand, and feared (not without cause) lest the Souldiers, through the carefulness to re∣cover their own, might leave the fight, and resort towards their Baggage: He sent Arctes, Captain of the Spearmen that were nam'd Sa••ssopherii, against the Scythians. By this time the Hooked Waggons, which had before troubled the fore-front, were come within the square (which the Macedons call Pha∣lanx) yet the Souldiers never shrunk at the matter, but received them into the midst of their Battel; whereas joyning themselves close together, they stood like a wall on both sides, thrusting their Pikes into the Bowels of the Horses; and ran about the Waggons, throwing down such as stood in them at defence. The whole Battel was intangled and troubled with the ruine and killing of the Horses, with such as governed them: They could not rule their Horses when they were once galled or hurt; who with much leaping and strugling, not only brake out of their Traces, but also overthrew the Waggons, drawing at their Tails the men that were slain; neither being able to stand still for the fear they were in, nor yet go forwards, being so faint of their wounds: Yet a few of them passed through the Battel; whereby such as the Waggons did light upon, were miserably slain, lying upon the ground with their Members cut in sunder: Yet because that through the greenness of their wounds they felt little pain, they kept their Weapons still, not∣withstanding they were maimed, and without strength, till such time as, by continual bleeding, they sunk down dead. Aretes, in the mean time, had

slain the Captain of the Scythians that were spoil∣ing of the Carriages, and repulsed them back: But straightway came the Bactrians, by Darius send∣ing, and turned the fortune of the Field again. Many Macedons were slain at the first encounter, but more fled unto Alexander: Then the Persians made such a shout as men are wont to do that win the Victory, and fiercely assailed their Enemies, thinking they had in evey place been put to flight. When Alexander perceived his men shrink, and begin to faint, and give ground, he rebuked such as he saw afraid, and encouraged many that with∣drew from the fight; so that he alone restored the Battel again. When he had put them in heart, he required them to press forwards, and go freely a∣gainst their Enemies. Alexander perceiving that the Bactrians were departed to the defeating of the Carriages, and by their going had left the right-hand Battel of Darius thin and naked, he bent his force wholly that way, and there made a wonder∣ful slaughter and destruction of his Enemies, who by reason of their loose Array, were not able to withstand him; which the Persians in the left wing observing, were in hope to have inclosed Alexan∣der round, and came forwards to set upon his Rear, whereby great danger had ensued to him, being invironed both before and behinde, if the Agrians had not put their Spurs to their Horses, and given a gallant Charge to their Enemies that were inviron∣ing the King about, and so compelled the Persians to turn their faces again towards them.

The Battels thus were sore travelled on both sides; Alexander had his Foes both before and be∣hinde,

and his Enemies that come on his back were sore oppressed by the Agrians: The Bactrians also that had spoiled the Carriages, were excluded from their own company, and could not recover their place again. Thus the Battels were divided in di∣vers parts, and fought one against another, as their chance fell out. The two Kings, that joyned their Battel hard to one another, renewed again the fight: There were most of the Persians slain; but the num∣ber of the wounded were li••••e on both sides: Da∣rius did ride in a Chariot, and Alexander upon a Horse: They both had a choice Band about them, which were careless of their own lives; for if their Kings should miscarry, they neither could be safe, nor yet desire to live. Wherefore every one of them thought it a Noble thing to adventure them∣selves before the face of their Prince; and he that coveted most to defend his Master, was in most pe∣ril; for each man desired the honour to kill the King of the contrary part. There (whether it were an imagination of the eyes, or visible indeed) such as were about Alexander believed, that they saw an Eagle fluttering above his head, which neither feared with the clashing of their Harness, nor by the crying of them that were dying, hovered still in the Air a little above him. Then Aristander, who did wear a white garment, and carried Lawrel in his hand, shewed this sight unto the Soaldiers, be∣ing busie in the fight, as a certain token of Victo∣ry. This sight caused them, which before were in some doubt, chearfully and with great confidence to assail their Enemies.

The fight continued after this sort until the time

that he was slain who governed the Horse that drew Darius Chariot: Then neither the Persians nor Macedons doubted, but tha•• Darius had been slain: And the Persians, upon that imagination, made a b••rbarous noise, and a sorrowful howling, where∣with they sore troubled and astonied their whole Hoast, that were yet fighting with equal Victory: Darius Kinsmen, and the Squires of his Body that were on his left hand, left him, and fled away with a main flight: but such as stood in his defence on his right hand, conveyed him into the heart of the Battel.

It was said that Darius drew out his Sword, and was determined divers times to kill himself, rather then to sustain the shame of flying away: But when he saw, as he sate aloft on his Chariot, that a great part of his Army remained yet fighting, he was ashamed to leave them in such sort. And while he thus wavered in his own minde, the Persians by little and little gave ground, and shrunk from their order. Alexander that had tyred many Hor∣ses, did at that instant change his Horse anew, and strake at the faces of them that did oppose: there was none then that made resistance any longer, but a manifest slaughter fell on the Persians, and Da∣rius turned his Chariot to fly away: The Mace∣dans pursued hard after them that fled; and the dust that flew up to the Sky took away their pro∣spect, so that they wandred as in darkness, and ever drew together when they heard any voice they knew; only the ratling and noise of the Chariots was a taken for the Macedons to follow in the pur∣suit.

As Fortune was prosperous to the Macedons on this part, and contrary unto their 〈◊〉〈◊〉; so on the other side, where Parmenio in the left wing in∣countred with the Persians, they had the better, and the Macedons the worse. Mazeus with his whole Band gave a violent charge, and put the Horsemen that stood in the wings to a sore distress; and thereupon, by reason he abounded with mul∣titude, he began to inclose the Footmen round. Then Parmenio sent word to Alexander in what danger they were; which he signified to be such, that except they had succour in time, they could not resist, but be inforced to fly away. Alexan∣der was gone far in the Chase when this sorrowful message was brought him; wherefore he command∣ed his Horsemen to stand, and chafed wonderful∣ly that the Victory should be thus taken out of his hands, and that Darius had better fortune in fly∣ing, then he in following. In the mean s••ason, the fame of Darius overthrow was brought unto Maze∣us, wherefore, though before he had the upper hand, yet he was so stricken with fear at his Fellows mis∣fortune, that he made a slack pursuit upon their E∣nemies. Parmenio was ignorant of the cause why the fight did slack so willingly on their part; and boldly using the occasion, called the Thessalian Horsemen unto him, and said: See you not how our Enemies, that even now gave us a fierce on••set, suddenly be afraid? I see the fortune of our King doth give us the Victory: All the Field is strowed with the Persians that be slain; Why do you there∣fore stay? Are you not good enough for men that fly?

They saw that his words had some appearance of truth; and therefore by and by they took courage, and putting their Spurs to their Horses, gave a full charge upon their Enemies; who retired not by little and little, but marched away a great pace; and they wanted nothing of flying, saving that they had not yet directly turned their backs: yet for all that, in so much as Parmenio knew not what was become of the King, nor of his Battel, he stayed, and would not pursue after them. Mazeus having liberty given him to fly at his leisure, pas∣sed the River of Tire, not the next way, but by a further compass about with more surety, and reco∣vered the City of Babylon with the remainder of that vanquished Army.

In the mean season, Darius, with a few that ac∣companied him in his slight, came to the River of Licus, where passing over, he stood in doubt whe∣ther he should break the Bridge or no; for it was shewed him, that his Enemies were at hand: but considering how many thousands of his men by the breaking thereof should become a prey to his Ene∣mies, he left the Bridge standing; and at his de∣parture said, That he had rather open the way to them that pursued him, then to shut it against them that fled after him. But Darius left not his flying till he came to Arbella, where he arrived about mid-night: Who is able to conceive in his minde, or express in words, the manifold chance in this discomfi∣ture, the slaughter that fell both upon Captains and Souldiers; the chasing of them that were put to flight, and the destruction in general, and in particular; Fortune heaped together in that one

day the chances of the whole world. Some took the way that came next to hand; others fled into the Woods, and sought out by-ways to escape such as had them in the chase: There was a confusion of Horsemen and Footmen mixed together withou•• any head; the armed with the unarmed, and the whole with the hurt.

At length, the compassion that one had of ano∣ther, was turned into fear▪ and they that could not follow, were left bewailing themselves one to ano∣ther: But Thirst chiefly afflicted the wounded and wearied, who lay along every where in the ways where any water was, gasping after it with open mouth; and when for greediness they had gulled in the troubled water, they began to swell, when the Mud once entred into their Intrails; and being thus not in case to move, the Enemy came and stir∣red them up with fresh wounds. Some; when the Brooks near hand were taken up by others, sought out for Springs in every secret place: Nor were there any Puddles so dry, or so far out of the way, that could be hidden from the thirst of them that searched them out: The old men and women were heard howling and crying in all the Villages near the way side, how Darius was yet their King.

Alexander (as it hath been said before) pursuing the Chase, was come to the River of Licus, at which the multitude of the Flyers were more then could pass the Bridge; so that many, when their Enemies pursued them, leaped into the water; and there la∣den with their Armour, and wearied with sighting and flying, were consumed in the stream: But within a while, neither the Bridge nor the River

were able to receive the throung that continually in∣creased by their indiscreet flying: For when fear had once entred into their hearts, they doubted only that which put them first in fear. The Macedons were very eager in pursuit of their Enemies, and re∣quired Alexander, that he would not suffer his Ene∣mies to escape free away: But he to stay them, al∣ledged, that their weapons were dull, their hands wearied, their bodies faint in the long pursuit, and the night besides fast approached on them: But in very deed, the care of his other▪ Battel, which he thought to be yet fighting, caused him to return to their succour.

He had not so soon turned his Ensignes, but that certain Horsemen brought him word from Parme∣nio, that he likewise had put his Enemies to flight. He was not in so great danger all that day, as when he was coming towards his Camp; for there were but few that followed him, and they were out of order, as men that rejoycing of the Victory, judg∣ed all their Enemies either to be fled, or slain in the Field: Suddenly there appeared a Band of Persian Horsemen coming against them, which at the first stayed▪ but afterwards perceiving the small num∣ber of the Macedons, gave a charge upon them. The King rode foremost, rather dissembling then de∣spising the peril he was in: But his perpetual felici∣ty never failed him in his extremities; for at the first encounter, he strake the Captain of the Persians (who in eagerness of the fight unadvisedly came a∣gainst him) through with a Spear. When he with that blow was stricken to the ground, Alexander slew the next unto him with the same Staff; and after him, divers others.

When his Company saw their Enemies amazed with his doings, they brake upon them, and threw many to the earth; yet they, for their parts, were not unrevenged: for the whole Battel did not so earnestly fight, as that small Band assembled so by chance. But at length, when they saw flying in the dark to be more safe unto them then fighting, they fled away in divers Companies. Alexander ha∣ving escaped this extraordinary peril, brought his men in safeguard unto his Camp.

There were slain of the Persians, which came to the knowledge of them that had the Victory, for∣ty thousand; and of the Macedons, less then three hundred: which Victory Alexander won more by his own Vertue, then by any fortune; and with hardiness and courage, more then through any advantage of the ground: for he both ordered his Battels politickly, and fought manfully: With great wisdom he contemned the loss of the Baggage, con∣sidering the weight of the whole matter to con∣sist in the Battel it self. Whilest the fortune of the Field remained doubtful, he used himself as assured of the Victory; and when he had put his Enemies in fear, he ceased not till he had set them flying: and that which scarcely can be believed, in that fierceness of courage, he pursued in the Chase more wisely then greedily: For if he should have fol∣lowed on still, part of his Power yet fighting in the Field, he should either have lost the Battel through his own fault, or else have won the Victory through the prowess of another: Or if after he had obtained the Victory, he had shewed himself afraid of the Horsemen that he met, he must either

shamefully have fled, or have been miserably slain.

Nor were his Captains to be defrauded of their due commendation, for the wounds that they did receive were tokens of their Manhood; Ephestions arm was wounded with a Spear, Perdicas, Cenos, and Medinas, with shot of Arrows, were almost slain out-right: And if we will give a true judgment of the Macedons that were there, we must confess, that he was a King worthy of such Ministers, and they men worthy of so great a Master.