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 SEVENTH BOOK OF QƲINTƲS CƲRTIƲS. (Book 7)

Of the Acts of Alexander the Great, King of Ma∣cedon. (Book 7)

AS the Men of War thought Philotas justly put to death, his offence being fresh in me∣mory; even so, after he was gone, their envy was turned into pity: The Nobleness of the Young Man moved them much; so did the num∣ber of the Old Years and Desolation of his Father. He was the first that made the way open for Alex∣ander into Asia, always partaker of his perils, the Captain of his Vaward, and chief in Councel with the King his Father; and so trusty to Alexander himself, that in oppressing of Attalus, his Enemy, he would use no other mans service. The remem∣brance of these things was fresh among all the Soul∣diers, and seditious words came to the Kings ears, who being moved therewith, did wisely with tra∣vel avoid the evil occasions coming of idleness: wherefore he caused it to be proclaimed, that all men should be in a readiness before the Court-gate,

where they being once assembled, he came forth to speak unto them: And as it was before contrived, he required the Band of the Agrians to bring forth one Alexander Lynstes, which long before Philotas had conspired the Kings Death. This man being accused of two Witnesses (as before said) had re∣mained in prison three years together; against whom it was proved, that he was of counsel with Pausanias in the killing of King Philip: But because he saluted first Alexander by the Name of King, his punishment was deferred, rather then his offence forgiven: For at the intercession of Antipater, his Father-in-law, the King had respited his just indig∣nation for that time. But the old festered sore brake out again, and the consideration of his peril present, renewed the remembrance of his danger passed: Therefore when he was brought forth of prison, and commanded to say for himself, albeit he had three years leisure to devise his answer, yet stam∣mering and trembling, could bring forth but little of that which he purposed to say; and finally, both his heart and his memory failed him: wherefore there was none that doubted, but that his fearfulness was a token of a guilty Conscience, and no default of memory: So that whilst he was staggering and hacking in his tale, they that stood next thrust him through with their Pikes; whose body conveyed out of the place, the King commanded Amintas and Simmannas to be brought forth; for Palemon, their youngest Brother, after he had knowledge of Philotas torment, fled away. Of all Philotas friends, these two were most dear to him, and through his commendation, advanced to high and honourable

Offices: The King remembring with what earnest∣ness and labour Philotas had brought them into his favour, doubted not but they were privy to his last Conspiracy. Whereupon he declared unto the mul∣titude, that he had occasion of suspition against those men long ago by his Mothers Letters, where∣by he had warning to beware of them; and that now fearing the sequel of worser inconveniencies, had made them sure, inforced thereunto by appa∣rent presumptions. First, he said, the day before Philotas Treason came to light, it was well known, that they had much conference with him in secret: And also their Brother, who fled away when Philo∣tas was on the Rack, he had declared, by the absent∣ing of himself, the cause of his flying. He shewed also, that of late, contrary to their accustomed man∣ner of waiting, without any cause moving them thereunto, but only by pretence of diligence, they pressed next about the King of all other; whereat marvelling that they would furnish a Room where∣unto they were not appointed, became so in doubt of their clustring together, that he returned into the Train of the Gentlemen that followed him: He de∣clared beside, that when Antiphanes, Clerk of the Stable, the day before Philotas Treason came to light, according to his accustomed manner, gave knowledge to Amintas, that he should deliver of his Horse to such as had lost their own; he proudly an∣swered again, that except he would content himself, he should know shortly what manner of man he was: Which violence of tongue, and rashness of words bulked out (quoth he) was nothing else, but a decla∣ration and token of his trayterous heart. These

things being true (he said) they had no less deserved then Philotas; and if they were otherwise, he de∣sired they might answer unto the points: There∣upon Antiphanes was brought in to give Evidence of the Horse not delivered, and of his proud answer given with threatning. When Amintas had gotten liberty to speak, he desired of the King, that whiles they answered for themselves, their Bands might be loosed: which thing obtained, he made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to have his garment to be cast upon him; which Alexander not only granted, but will••d a weapon to be deli∣vered unto his hands, as other 〈◊〉〈◊〉 used. When he had received the same, 〈…〉〈…〉 a little the place where the Corpse of Lincestes l••y, and said in this wise:

Whatsoever shall become of us (Sir King) we must think if our chance be good, the same to proceed of your favour; and if it be evil, we must judge the fault to be in our Fortune, seeing you suffer us to plead our cause without prejudice, setting our mindes free, and our bodies at large, with the s••me apparel restoring us, wherein we were wont to follow you: Our Cause is such, that we cannot doubt of it, and we are passed the fear of Fortune; therefore, with your favour, I will answer first those points wherewith you charged us last. We know most assuredly, that we be innocent of any kinde of words spoken to the derogation of your Majesty; and durst affirm, that you had over••ome all envy of men, but that perad••enture you would think that I went about with fair words to excuse things that have been maliciously spoken: Though it were so, that words sometime did escape us, either when we were faint, or wearied in marching, hazarding our

selves in fighting; or else when we were sick, or dressing of our Wounds: Our honest doings otherwise do deserve, that ye should rather impute the same to the time, then to evil disposition in us: For it is com∣monly seen, where any thing chanceth amiss, all men in manner become guilty of the fault: We do violence sometime to our own bodies, which we hate not: Yea, the coming of the Fathers unto the Children, sometime is both ungrateful, and also hateful. But on the other side, when we receive rewards or gifts, or when we come laden home with Spoil, Who can then stay us? Who can restrain our chearfulness? or, Who can resist our courage in fighting? The Nature of Man, is neither to keep measure in displeasure, nor in gladness. Thus are we driven by the violence of affection, sometimes with pity, and sometimes with fury, as our present desire doth govern us. One while we are in minde to pass through India, as far as the Ocean Sea; and by and by, the memory of our Wives, and Children, and Country, altereth our purpose: But as soon as the Trumpet soundeth, straight all these imaginations do pass away, and every man then runneth in his Array, revenging upon their Enemies the displeasures conceived with∣in their own Tents. I would Philotas had offend∣ed but only in words; I would pass over that, and return to the other point whereof we are accused: The friendship that was betwixt Philotas and us, I will not only not deny, but also confess, that we did covet the same, and received thereby great commo∣dities. Do you marvel that we did honour and e∣steem the Son of Parmenio, whom you did chuse to be next about your Person, and did advance above

all other your Friends? You your self (if you please to hear the truth) are the cause of this your peril. What other thing moved us to covet Philotas Friend∣ship, then that we desired to please you? By this preferment we are advanced unto your favour: He stood in such height with you, that it behoved us as well to sue for his benevolence, as to fear his displea∣sure: Have not we sworn that we would repute your Enemies our Enemies, and honour your Friends as our own? Should we have been found disobedient in this Bond of our Duty; and especially towards him, whom ye did prefer above all men? If this be a fault, ye have few Innocents, or surely none at all: All men desired to be Philotas friends, but all that did covet it could not be accepted. So if ye will make no dif∣ference between the Partners of his Treason, and such as were his Friends; then so many are Offen∣ders, as would have been his Friends. What pre∣sumption have you now that we should offend? I think, because yesterday Philotas talked with us fa∣miliarly alone: Thereof I cannot excuse my self, if yesterday I changed any thing of mine accustomed man∣ner and living; but if so be we used every day to do the like, then Custom must needs make it to be no Offence. But it may be said, The Horses were not delivered to Antiphanes; and the day before Philotas was detected, this difference was betwixt Antiphanes and me: If that be a just cause of su∣spition, that I would not then deliver my Horses, there shall arise a doubtful Plea between the Denyer and the Demander, saving that his Cause is better that keepeth still his own, then his that requireth ano∣ther mans. I had ten Horses, of the which Antiphanes

had distributed eight to such as had lost their own; so there only remained two, which when he would proudly and wrongfully have taken away, I was in∣forced to keep them still, except I would have served on foot. I cannot deny but that this communication was had between a man of a free stomack, and a person of a vile nature, which could do no manner of ser∣vice, but take away mens Horses, and give them to o∣thers. What mischief is this, that at one time I must purge my self both to the King, and to Antiphanes? But to the other point, that your Mother did write to you of us, as of your Enemies; I would to God she had more wisely been careful of her Sons safeguard, then doubtfully imagined such inventions: Why doth she not also express the cause of her fear? Besides, she sheweth not her Author, nor yet signifieth one word whereby she was moved to write to you such Letters of fear. O wretched estate of mine, which standeth in no less hazard to hold my peace, then to speak! Yet howsoever the event shall be, I had rather my dis∣course should displease you, then my Cause. If you re∣member when you sent me to fetch new Souldiers out of Macedon, even when you shewed me, that in your Mothers house there lurked many lusty young Gen∣tlemen; you commanded me, that in executing your Commission, I should spare none, but bring with me perforce all such as refused the Wars: which thing I did, and fulfilled your will therein, more largely then was expedient for me; for I brought unto you Gorge∣us, Heccateus, and Gorgata, which now minister unto you, and do very acceptable service. What Creature therefore is more wretched then I, who if I had not fulfilled your will, should rightfully have suffered; and

now I perish, because I obeyed you? For truly there was no cause that moved your Mother to persecute us, then that we preferred your Command before a Wo∣mans favour: I brought unto you of Macedons six thousand and eight hundred Horsemen, of the which the greatest part would not have followed me: It is reason therefore, that in as much as your Mother is displeased with us for your Cause, that ye mitigate her in whose displeasure you have put us.

Whiles Amintas was thus pleading his Cause, they that had pursued his Brother Palemon (of whom we spake) came leading him bound into the place. Then the rage of the people could scarcely be pacified▪ but as the manner was in such cases, they would have stoned Palemon to death; yet he bold∣ly spake to them, and said:

I desire no favour for my self, so that my flying be not hurtful to the Innocency of my Brethren, whom if you cannot think clear, let the fault be laid to me: For their Cause appeared the better, because I which fled away am suspected.

As soon as he had spoken these words, the whole Assembly were inclined to his favour, and dissolved to tears; being so suddenly and so contrary turned, that now they we re••all on his part, who a little be∣fore were against him: He was in the prime flower of his Youth, and through other mens fear fled away amongst those Horsemen, who were amazed at Philotas torments: His company had left him behinde; and whiles he was in doubt whether he might turn again, or fly further forwards, he was taken by them which pursued after him. He then began to weep, and beat himself about the face, not

so much lamenting his own chance, as the conditi∣on of his Brethren, being in danger for his cause with which behaviour of his, he moved the King and all the company there present; only his Bro∣ther Amintas could not be pacified, but beheld him with a fierce countenance, and said:

O mad Creature! Then oughtest thou to have wep•• when thou didst put thy Spurs to thy Horse as a Tray∣tor to thy Brethren, and a Companion to Traytors. Thou Wretch! whither, and from whence didst thou flee? Thou hast now brought to pass, that both I am thought worthy of Death, and also must become an•• Accuser of others.

Palemon thereupon confessed himself to have of∣fended in that point, but more grievously against his Brethren, then towards himself. Then the mul∣titude could not abstain from weeping and shout∣ing, being Tokens whereby men in Assembly are wont to declare their affections, and with one con∣sent they cryed to the King, That he should spare In∣nocents, and men of service. His friends, upon that occasion, did rise, and with weeping eyes required mercy of the King. Then he commanded silence, and said:

By mine own judgment, I do pardon both you, A∣mintas, and your Brethren, desirous that ye should be more mindful of my benefit, then of your own jeo∣pardy: Come in favour again with me, with that fi∣delity by which I am reconciled unto you. Except these things which were brought in Evidence had been tryed to the uttermost, my dissimulation might have been suspected in this matter: Better it is therefore to be cleared, then to remain in jealousie, and thin

that no man can be acquitted, except he be first de∣tected: Thou Amintas, pardon thy Brother, and let that be a token of thy hearts being reconciled un∣to me.

This done, the King dismissed the Assembly, and sent for Polidamus, whom of all men Parmenio lo∣ved best, accustomed always to stand next him in Battel: And though the clearness of his conscience did assure him to come boldly; yet after he was commanded to bring forth his Brethren, being but young, and unknown to the King, his confidence was turned into fear, and he began to doubt, ima∣gining in his minde rather such things as might hurt him, then by what means he was thus circumvent∣ed. In the mean season, the Guard which had com∣mandment thereunto, brought forth his Brethren. When the King saw Polidamus pale for fear, he call∣ed him near unto him, and commanding all men ••part, he said unto him:

Through Parmenio his Treason, we were all in dan∣ger, but chiefly I and thou, whom under colour of Friendship he deceived most: In the pursuing and punishment of whom, see how much I trust thy fide∣lity, for I am determined to use thee as a Minister therein; and whilest thou goest about it, thy Brethren shall be thy pledges. Thou shalt go into Media, and ••ear my Letters to my Officers, written with mine own hand: It is necessary haste be made, that the ••wiftness of the Fame be prevented: I will, that ye ••ome thither in the night, and that the tenour of my wri∣ting be executed the day after. Ye shall carry Letters likewise unto Parmenio, one from me, and another written ••t the name of Philotas: I have his Signet in my custody:

So that when Parmenio shall see both you, and the Letter sealed with his Sons Ring, he will be without any suspition.

Polidamus being thus delivered of fear, promised his diligence a great deal more earnestly then was required. When Alexander saw his promptness in the matter, he both commended his good will, and rewarded him accordingly: And Polidamus chan∣ged his own apparel, and took other, after the fa∣shion of the Arabians, with two of the same Coun∣try to be his Guides; for whose truth, their Wives and Children were pledges in the mean season: And so they passed on Camels through such places as were desart for lack of moisture, and within ele∣ven days came unto their journeys end, before any knew of their coming. Polidamus then took again his Macedons apparel, and in the dead time of the night came unto Cleanders lodging, who had the chief Authority there, next unto Parmenio. When Cleander, by his Letters, understood the Kings plea∣sure, Polidamus having more Letters to deliver like∣wise to others, agreed by the break of day to go to∣gether to Parmenio.

As they were going, tidings came to Parmenio of Polidamus arrival, who rejoycing, both for the com∣ing of his Friend, and for the desire he had to know of the Kings Estate (the rather, because he had re∣ceived no Letter from him a long space) command∣ed Polidamus to come to him. The houses of that Country have large Back-sides, and pleasant Or∣chards full of Trees, being the chief delight of the Princes and great Lords there. The Captains which had received Commandment by the Kings Letters▪

to kill him, came to Parmenio, walking under the shadow of the Trees, being agreed among them∣selves to execute the slaughter, when he should be∣gin to read his Letters.

So soon as Parmenio had espied Polidamus com∣ing afar off, with a semblance of joy (as appear∣ed by his countenance) he ran to imbrace him, and after salutation given to each other, he delivered the Kings Letter: As he was unclosing it, he de∣manded of Polidamus what the King intended to do? You shall know that, said he, by the Contents of our Letters: Which when he had read, I perceive (quoth Parmenio) that the King purposeth a Voyage against the Arachosians; Surely he is a painful Prince, and never in rest: But now, after so much glory won, it were time for him to take his ease, and have consi∣deration of his health and safeguard. And then he read the other Letter, written in the Name of Phi∣lotas; whereat he was joyful, as appeared by his countenance: With that Cleander stabbed him with his Sword in his side, and after striking him over the throat, the residue thrust him in, as he lay a dying.

But Parmenio's men, who stood near at hand, and saw the murder, whereof they knew not the cause, ran into the Camp, and with their troublous ti∣dings set all the Souldiers in an uproar: They ran straight to Arms, and clustring together about the place where the murder was done, they made an exclamation, that except Polidamus, and the other Actors in that deed, were delivered to their hands, they would overthrow the Wall, and make sacrifice to their dead Captain with the bloud of the Offen∣ders.

Cleander willed the chief of them to be let in, and recited the Kings Letters, wherein was con∣tained the Treason of Parmenio intended against him, with a request to them to sit in revenge: Then immediately, upon the Kings pleasure known, the Sedition was appeased, but the grudge was not rid out of their hearts: The most part departed, saving a few, who instantly required, that at the least they might be suffered to bury the body. It was denied them long, by reason of Cleander, who dreaded the Kings displeasure: but because they began to wax more earnest, intending to avoid matter of Sedition, he cut off the Head, which he sent to the King, and left them the Body to bury.

This was the end of Parmenio, a Noble-man both in War and Peace: many things had he done with∣out the King, but the King without him did never any thing worthy of praise: He served and pleased, in all affairs, a King most happy and fortunate; and being threescore and ten years of age, executed the Office of a Captain as lively, as though he had been young in years, and pretermitted not oftentimes the parts of a common Souldier: He was quick in counsel, doughty of deed, well beloved of all Prin∣ces, but most dear to the common sort of Souldiers: Yet whether those things moved him to be King, or else caused him to be suspected thereof, it is yet to be doubted. For whether the words that Philotas spake, when he was overcome with the pains of his last torments, were true or false, or else that he sought an end of his pain by accusing himself falsly▪ it was much doubtful, seeing there was no such thing proved at such time as the matter was most fresh in memory.

Such as Alexander perceived to grudge at the death of Philotas, were separated from the rest of the Army, and put into one Cohort under Leonidas their Captain, who in times past was of near fami∣liarity with Parmenio: The King did bear privy displeasure against them; and therefore willing to prove the disposition of every man, he gave warn∣ing throughout the Army, that all such as would write into Macedonia, and have their Letters sure∣ly conveyed, should bring them to be carried with such as he would send: Whereupon, every man did write frankly to their Friends such things as were in their hearts: Some shewed themselves to be offended with the long Wars, and some seem∣ed to be well pleased; but all their Letters were intercepted, as well of such as commended the King, as of those that grudged at his doings. Wherefore he willed such, as by their Letters disclosed them∣selves to be weary of the travel of the Wars, for their reproach, to be put in a Regiment apart from the rest; whereby he both gave them occasion to shew their hardness, and besides, removed the liberty of their tongues from the credulous ears of the rest. Which rash device, as all other things, turned to the setting forth of the Kings felicity; for in all ex∣tremities, they shewed themselves the r••adiest, and the most forward; and whilest they coveted to re∣deem their reproach, their valiant doings could not be hidden in so small a number, being separated by themselves.

These things being ordered after this manner, he appointed a Ruler over the Arians, and proclaim∣ed his journey against the Araspians, who by chan∣ging

of their names, were called Evergitans, since the time that they relieved Cyrus Army with Lodg∣ing and Victuals, being afflicted with cold and penury. It was the fifth day before he entred into their Country, where he understood, that Satri∣barzanes, who took Bessus part, was with a power of Horsemen entred again amongst the Arrians: He sent against him Caranas and Erigius, and in their aid Artabasus and Andromachus, with six thou∣sand Greek Footmen, and six hundred Horsemen. Alexander continued threescore days in setting or∣der amongst the Evergitans, upon whom he be∣stowed a great sum of money, for the notable ••••de∣lity they shewed towards Cyrus: and leaving Ame∣nides to be their Governour (who was Darius Se∣cretary) he went to subdue the Arachosians, who border upon the Sea of Pontus.

The Men of War, who were under Parmenio his Rule, came then to Alexander, being six thousand Macedons, with two hundred of the Nobility, five thousand Greek Footmen, and two hundred Horse∣men, which were the chief force of their power. To these Arachosians, Memnon was appointed Lieu∣tenant, with four thousand Footmen, and six hun∣dred Horsemen.

Alexander from thence entred with his Army in∣to a Country not known unto such as bordered up∣on it, for the Inhabitants would not have conver∣sation with any other people: They were called Paramisadans, being a very rustical kinde of men, and most rude amongst all the Barbarous Nations, the hardness of the Country had so indurated their dispositions: They lye most towards the cold North-Pole,

joyning with the Bactrians upon the West, and bending towards the Indian Sea upon the South. They used to build their houses of Brick; and because the Land is full of barren Moun∣tains, and void of Timber, they make their whole houses of the same, which beginning broad beneath, groweth ever more narrow towards the top; and like the Keel of a Ship, where the holes are made above to receive light: Such of their Pines and Trees that bring forth fruit, which they will preserve from the violence of the cold, they cover with earth du∣ring the Winter-seasons; and when the Snow is va∣nished away, they restore them again to the Air, and to the Sun: The earth was there covered with Snow, and frozen so hard, that there remained no signe of any Bird or Beast within the Country: The Air besides was so dark, that little light appeared; but the earth being covered as it were with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ihadow, men could scarcely discern things very near at hand.

The Army being brought into this Country de∣stitute of T••llag••, suffered all the discommodities and miseries that might be end 〈◊〉〈◊〉, both of hun∣ger, cold, weariness and despair: There were many of them that died for cold, and the Snow de∣stroyed their feet, but especially it took away the sight of many. When they were wearied, and not able to travel any further, they laid themselves down upon the frozen Snow, and having once left the motion of their bodies, which stirred in them their natural heat, they were straightways so be∣nummed with cold, that they could not rise again, till they were lifted up by their Companions; and

there was no remedy for it, but to compel them to go forwards; for then by stirring of themselves, their natural heat was revived, and they recover∣ed again some strength. Such as recovered the Cot∣tages wherein the Country-men dwelled, were ve∣ry well refreshed; but the darkness was so great, that the houses could not be otherwise discerned, then by the smoak.

The Inhabitants that had never seen Strangers before amongst them, when they beheld the armed men coming suddenly upon them, were amazed for fear, and brought forth whatsoever they had, to save their bodies from violence. Alexander march∣ed on foot amongst his men, rasing such as were down, and relieving such as he saw afflicted with the cold with his own cloaths: He was seen one while in the Van, another while in the middest, and sometime in the Rereward, to the great travel of his body. At length they came to places better manured, where he refreshed his Army with plen∣ty of victuals, and there remained in Camp till such time as the Souldiers that were left behinde did o∣vertake their Fellows. Then he went forwards with his Army to the Mount Caucasus, which divide•••• all Asia into two parts: For on the one side 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stretcheth towards the Sea of Cilicia, and on the other side to the Caspian Sea, to the River of A∣raxes, and the Desarts of Scythia.

To this Mount Caucasus there joyneth another Mountain, called Taurus, next unto it in bignes••; which riseth from Cappadocia, and passing by Ci••••∣cia, closeth with the Mountains of Armenia. Out of these Mountains joyning thus together, as it were

in one continual ridge, all the Rivers in Asia do de∣scend, some of them running into the Red Sea, some into the Caspian and Hircanian Sea, and other unto the Sea of Pontus. In seventeen days, Alex∣ander, with his Armies, passed Mount Caucasus; where, in a Rock that is ten furlongs in compass, Antiquity fained that Prometheus lay bound. At the foot of this Mountain Alexander chose out a place to build a City, wherein he placed seven thousand of the most Ancient Macedons, and such others whose service he would not use any more in the Wars, and called the same Alexandria.

But Bessus, that was put in fear with Alexanders celerity, made sacrifice unto the gods of his Coun∣try; and according to the custom of those, in the midst of his Banquets, he consulted with his friends and his Captains, for the maintenance of the Wars: And when they were well charged with Wine, they extolled greatly their own power, de∣spising the rashness of their Enemies, and their small number: But chiefly Bessus was most arrogant in his words; who puffed up with pride, by reason of the Kingdom he had newly got by Treason, began to declare, How that Darius by his folly had in∣creased his Enemies Fame, who would needs fight with them in the Streights of Cilicia, when by retiring back▪ he might have drawn them (before they had been aware) into Desart places, and there have put Ri∣vers and Mountains between his Enemies and him, and amongst the same so inclosed them, that they could by no possibility have fled away, and much less make any resistance: Wherefore (he said) he was resolved to retire back amongst the Sogdi••••••,

where the River of Oxus should be as a Wall betwixt him and his Enemies, till such time as he might as∣semble a strong power of the Nations thereabout; knowing very well, that the Chorismians, the Dahans and Sacans, the Indians and Scythians, inhabiting beyond the River of Tanais, would come to his assi∣stance; of whom there was none so low, that any Macedon, with the top of his head, could reach to his shoulders. They all in their drunkenness assent∣ed to him, affirming that only to be the wisest way: whereupon Bessus caused the Wine to be carried a∣bout plentifully, as if by a Sea of Drink he intend∣ed to arrive to Victory.

There was at that Feast one Cobares a Median, who in the Art Magick (if it be an Art, and not rather a deceit of some vain man) was more nota∣ble by his profession then by his knowledge, but otherwise a moderate and an honest man; he ma∣king a preamble before his discourse, said: He was not ignorant how much better it were to be obedient to others counsel, then to be a counsel-giver: For such as are followers of other mens judgments, are sure to have no worse fortune then the rest: but such as are Authors and perswaders of any matter, commonly pre∣pare their own peril; and therewith delivered the Cup he had in his hand, and proceeded thus:

The Nature of Man, in this respect, may be called perverse, because every one can see better into other mens affairs then into his own: Their counsels must needs be always full of perturbations, who take their own advice; for fear is an impediment to some, desire unto other, and to many, a self-love of the thing that they have devised. I will not speak of pride, nor impute it

unto any man; ye have seen by experience how every one doth esteem that thing only to be best, which he himself hath invented: The Diadem of a King that you wear upon your head, is a great burthen, which though it be born moderately, the weight thereof will oppress the bearer. It is not fury can avail in this case, but wise and prudent counsel.

When he had spoken those words, he rehearsed a Proverb commonly used amongst the Bactrians, which is, That a fearful Dog doth bark more then bite; and that the deepest Rivers do run with least noise; which things I have rehearsed, because such prudence may appear as remained amongst the Barbarous. As he talked after this manner, such as heard him wondred to what end his discourse would tend: Then he began to shew his advice, which was more profitable to Bessus then grate∣ful.

Alexanders celerity (quoth he) is such, that he is come in a manner to the entry of your Court; he can remove his Army before you can remove this Table: You say that you will draw your assistance from his River of Tanais, and that you will put Rivers betwixt you and your Enemies; I would know, if he be not able to fol∣low wheresoever you shall fly. If the way be indiffe∣rent, it must needs be m••st easie and assured to the Con∣querour: And though you think fear doth make much speed, yet hope is more swift. It were therefore me∣thinks expedient, to procure the favour of him that is the Mightiest, and yield your self to the Stronger: How∣soever he shall accept it, your Fortune is more like to be better that way, then to remain still an Enemy. Consi∣der, that you possess another mans Kingdom, and there∣fore

you may the better depart therewith: For ye can∣not be a just King, till ye receive the Kingdom of him that is able to give it, and take it away. This is faith∣ful counsel, wherefore it is not necessary to delay the execution thereof: The Horse that is of Noble courage, will be governed by the shadow of a Rod; but the dull beast is not pricked forwards with the Spur.

Bessus, that was fierce of nature, and well set forwards with drink, became in such a fury at his words, that he could scarcely be withheld by his Friend from slaying Cobares, for he pulled out his Sword to have done the deed, and departed out of the Feast in a great rage: But Cobares in the tumult escaped away, and came unto Alexander. Bessus had eight thousand Bactrians armed attending up∣on him, who so long as they judged by the intem∣perateness of the Air in these parts, the Macedons would rather have gone into India then into Ba∣ctria, were very obedient to his Commandment: But when they understood that Alexander was com∣ing towards them, every one shrunk away, and forsook Bessus. Then he with a Band of his own Family, who were yet faithful unto him, passed the River of Oxus, burning such Boats as carried him over, because the same should not serve his Enemy in following him, and assembled a new power amongst the Sogdians. Alexander, as it hath been said before, passed Mount Caucasus; but for want of Corn, his Army was brought to the ex∣tremity of hunger: Instead of Oyl, they were fain to anoint themselves with a juyce, which they wrung out of Seseman, every measure whereof was called Amphora, and sold for 240 Deniers; every like

measure of honey for 390, and of wine for 300, and yet of the same very little to be had. They have in that Country certain Vessels called Siry, which the Inhabitants do use to hide so privily, that they can∣not be found except they be digged for within the earth. The Country-men bury there their Corn after that manner, for want whereof the Souldiers were fain to live with Herbs, and such Fish as they caught in the Rivers: But that kinde of food failing also, they were inforced to kill their Carriage-Beasts, and lived with the flesh of them until they came into Bactria; the nature of the soil of which Coun∣try, is of sundry kindes. Some places are plenti∣ful of Wood and Vines, and abundant of pleasant fruit; the ground is fat, well watered, and full of Springs, and some as barren.

Those parts which be most temperate, are sowed with Corn, and the rest are reserved for feeding of Beasts: But the greater part of that Country is covered over with barren Sands, and withered up for want of moisture, nourishing neither man, nor bringing forth fruit, but with certain windes that come from the Sea of Pontus: The Sand in the plains is blown together in heaps, which seem afar off like great Hills; whereby the accustomed ways be so shut up, that no signe of them can appear: Therefore such as do possess those plains, use to observe the stars in the night, as they do who sail on the Seas, by the course of them directing their journey: The nights, for the most part, be brighter then the days; wherefore in the day-time the Country is wilde and unpassable, when they can neither finde any tract, nor any way to go in, nor mark nor signe where∣by

to pass, the Stars being hidden by the Mist: If the same winde chance to come, during the time that men be passing, it overwhelmeth them with Sand.

Where the Country is temperate, it bringeth forth great plenty both of men and horse; so that the Bactrians may make thirty thousand Horsemen. Bactria, which is the Head-City of that Region, standeth under a Mountain called Parapanisus: The River called Bactria runneth by the Walls, where∣of both the City and the Country take their names.

Alexander being there in Camp, received Letters out of Greece, how the Lacedemonians, and the whole Country of Peloponnesus, had rebelled against him: For they had not lost the Battel at such time as the Messengers were dispatched, that brought the news of their revolt. In the neck of these evil tidings, there came another present terrour, which was, that the Scythians inhabiting beyond the Ri∣ver of Tanais, were coming to aid Bessus. At the same time also, tidings came unto him of the Battel that Caranus and Erigius had fought with the Ari∣ans, where Satribarzanes, that was newly revolted, being Chief of the Country, seeing the Battel to remain equal on both sides, rid into the forefront, and plucked off his Helmet, forbidding any of his side, either to cast dart, or strike a stroke; and there made a challenge to fight hand to hand, if any man durst come forth and prove his strength.

Erigius, Captain to the Macedons, was a man stricken in years, but yet not inferiour to any young man in stoutness of stomack, or strength of body;

who could not bear the proud arrogancy of Satri∣barzanes, but stepping forwards, and plucking off his Helmet, shewed his hoary hair: The day is come (quoth he) that I will either by the victory, or by my honest death, make tryal what kinde of men Alex∣ander hath to his Friends and Souldiers; and with∣out more words he made towards his Enemy. It could not be judged, but that both Armies had stay∣ed their hands by appointment, for they gave back immediately on both sides, to let them have free scope, each party standing in expectation what should become of the Challenger; for they could not but think themselves partakers of their adven∣ture. Satribarzanes first charged his Staff, which Erigius avoided by bending his head aside; but he in the midst of his Race, struck the other with his Spear through the throat, so that it came forth a∣gain at his neck. Satribarzanes, upon that stroak, fell down from his Horse; but yet made resistance, till such time as Erigius plucked the Spear out of the wound, and thrust it again into his mouth; who to rid himself out of pain, furthered his Enemies stroke: Then the Arians seeing their Captain slain, whom they had followed rather of necessity, then of their own free wills, called to remembrance Alexanders benefits, and yielded themselves unto Erigius.

Alexander rejoyced much at the good success of this Enterprise, doubting greatly the Lacedemoni∣ans; but he did bear out their Rebellion stoutly, saying, That they durst never disclose their mean∣ing, until they knew he was come to the Confines of India. Alexander having removed his Camp,

and going forwards in the pursuit of Bessus, Erigius met him, presenting the spoil of his Enemy, as a memorial of his Victory. Thereupon, he commit∣ted the Rule of Bactria to Artabasus, where with a Garrison he left his Carriage; and with a power that was light, and fit for travel, he entred into the Desarts of the Susitans, conveying his Army by night.

In the want of water (that hath been declared before) desperation moved them to thirst, before they had desire to drink: For by the space of four hundred furlongs, they found no water at all. The vapours of the Sun, in the Summer-season, did so burn the Land, that when it began to wax hot, it scorched all things, as it had been with a conti∣nual fire: And then the light being somewhat ob∣scured by the Mist that rose out of the earth by the immoderate heat, caused the Plains to have an ap∣pearance of the Main Sea.

Their journey in the night seemed tolerable, be∣cause their bodies were somewhat refreshed with the Dew, and the cold of the morning: But when the day came, and the heat rose, then the drought drying up all their natural humours, both their mouths and their bowels were inflamed with heat: Then their hearts failed, and their bodies fainted, being in such a condition, that they could neither stand still, nor pass forwards. A few that were taught by such as knew the Country, had gotten water, which refreshed them somewhat; but as the heat increased, so their desire grew again to drink: There was no remedy, but to give amongst the Soul∣diers all the Wine and Oyl that remained in store;

for drink was so sweet unto them, that it took away the fear of any thirst to come: But such as had greedily gulped in the water that they got, became so heavy, that they were neither able to bear their Armour, nor go forwards: so that they seemed most happy who had gotten no water at all; for such as had taken of it inordinately, were inforced by vo∣mit to put up the same again.

As Alexander carefully in this calamity stood with his Friends that were perswading him to have respect to himself, for that he only, and the great∣ness of his heart, should be some relief unto them in his adversity; there came two Souldiers, who go∣ing before with such as had taken up the Camp, had found water, and were carrying of it in Bottles un∣to their Sons, which were sore afflicted for want of drink behinde in the Army: When they saw the King, one of them opened his Bottle, and filling a Cup, presented the water to the King, who receiving it at his hand, demanded to whom they carried that water; they said, to their Sons: Then he restored the Cup again full, as it was given him, and said: I will not drink alone; for so little cannot be divided amongst us all: Make you haste therefore to carry to your Sons that you have gotten with your travel.

But Alexander travelled so long, that before night he came to the River of Oxus: The more part of the Army, not able to follow for feebleness, were left far behinde; to the intent therefore that such as followed after, might know where the Camp was, he caused a fire to be made on the top of an hill, and gave order, that when the Vaward had refresh∣ed themselves with meat and drink, they should

fill their Bottles with water, and go back with the same to relieve their fellows. The breath of such as drank intemperately closed up, and they died im∣mediately: The number of these men was greater, then ever Alexander lost in any Battel; but he would neither put off his Arms, refresh himself with meat or drink, nor ease his body, but stood in the way where his Army passed, not departing till the last man was come into the Camp. He watched all that night, and passed it over in great trouble of minde; and the day that ensued brought no release of his care; for there were neither Boats to pass the River withal, nor could he make any Bridge, seeing there was no Wood growing nigh at hand. But at length he found out a device, whereunto only necessity did inforce him: They took Beasts skins, and stuffed them full of Straw, whereupon they laid themselves, and so swimmed over the River. Such as first recovered the further side, stood in order of Battel till the rest were passed over; by which means, in six days, he conveyed o∣ver his whole Army.

Having passed the River of Oxus, his purpose was to go forwards in the pursuit of Bessus, till he understood such things as had chanced among the Susitans. There was one Spitamenes, whom Bessus chiefly honoured of all his friends: But there are no benefits that can stay a man given up to perjury, which in him was the more tolerable, because he judged no mischief too great for him who had slain his Prince; for the revenge of Darius was a fair co∣lour to his offence: But it is to be thought, that his present fortune was more envied, then his past actions were hated.

When it was known that Alexander had advan∣ced over the River of Oxus, Spitamenes did associ∣ate with him in counsel for his enterprise Datapher∣nes and Catenes, whom Bessus specially trusted: They agreed to the Designe more readily then he would desire them; and taking to them eight young men that were strong of personage, used this kinde of policy. Spitamines repaired to Bessus, and getting him alone, informed him, that he had found out how Dataphernes and Catanes had con∣spired to deliver him into Alexanders hands; where∣as (he said) he had prevented them, while they were about their purpose, having taken them both, and put them fast in prison.

Bessus then thinking himself much bound unto him for so great a good turn, gave him many thanks; and for the desire he had to be revenged of his Enemies, willed Spitamenes to bring them to his presence: He caused their hands to be bound be∣hinde their backs, and to be brought by such as were privy to their Confederacy. When they came in Bessus presence, he beheld them with a full coun∣tenance, and rose up to have struck at them: But then they left their counterfeiting, and straight∣ways inclosing Bessus about, bound him; he strug∣ling in vain; and pulled the Diadem from his Head, tearing the Garments from his Back, which sometimes belonged to his Prince whom he had slain.

When he saw himself in this condition, he con∣fessed, that the gods had righteously revenged his Treason; and perceived by the Plague they sent him, that they both favoured Darius, and were

friends to Alexander, whose Enemies evermore pre∣ferred his Victory. It is uncertain whether the multitude would have assisted Bessus or not, but that Spitamenes had given forth, that it was done by Alexanders appointment; whereby he put them into a fear, being yet doubtful of minde, and set Bessus upon an horse, on the which he brought him unto Alexander, who in the mean season had chosen out 900, such as by reason of their Age were not meet for the Wars, and gave to every Horseman two Talents, and to every Footman three thousand Deniers. That done, he dispatched them home, and gave thanks unto the rest, because they promi∣sed to tarry with him until he had brought his Wars to an end.

Bessus was presented unto him at a little Town, whereof the Inhabitants are called Branchidans, who in times past, by the Commandment of Xerxes, when he came out of Greece, were brought from Mi∣letum, and placed there, because that in his favour they had violated a Temple called Didyma. They had not altogether forgotten their Country Cu∣stoms, but had mixed their tongue, which by lit∣tle and little degenerated from their own Language, and had not yet attained fully that Country-speech. They received the King with great joy, yeilding themselves and their City unto his will: Whereupon he called to him the Milesians that ser∣ved him in his Wars (who bare an ancient hatred against this Generation of the Branchidans) and left it to them to determine, whether they would save them for the Country sake, or else destroy them for the injury they had done them in times

past. But when the Milesians could not agree in O∣pinion, he said he would order the matter himself.

The next day, when the Brandichans came to meet him, he returned them all again into the Ci∣ty, and commanded the Footmen to inclose the Ci∣ty round, and entred with such as he had appoint∣ed for that purpose; and by a token given, he put all to the Sword, and razed the City as a Recepta∣cle of Traytors, they being without Armour in eve∣ry place: Neither the Affinity of their Tongue, nor any prayer or intercession could mitigate their Ene∣mies cruelty, who after the destruction of the Town, did cast down the Walls to the ground, so that no memory of them doth remain. That done, they did not only cut down the Woods, wherein they used their Sacrifice, but also plucked up the Trees by the Roots, that the ground might be left bar••en and de∣solate. If the same things had been done against the very Offenders, the revenge might have been thought righteous: But to lay the fault of the Pre∣decessors upon their Posterity, it is judged as a cru∣el act, being there were not any of them then pre∣sent, that had ever seen Miletum, or done to Xer∣xes any kinde of pleasure. As Alexander removed from thence, towards the River of Tanais, Bessus was brought before him, spoiled of all his Garments, whom Spitamenes led in a Chain put about his Neck; a pleasant sight to behold, as well to the Bar∣barous, as to the Macedons. When Spitamenes was come with him into Alexanders presence, he said:

I have brought here unto you the Killer of his own Ma∣ster, after the same manner that he himself 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the example; wherein I have both revenged 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that

was my King, and you also that now have gained the Soveraignty. Let Darius open his eyes, and rise from Death, to behold this sight, who was unworthy of such an end, and worthy to behold and receive such a Spe∣ctacle as this.

After Alexander had given Spitamenes thanks, he turned himself unto Bessus, and said:

What beastly fury moved thee to take thine own Prince Prisoner, and afterwards to kill him, having so well deserved of thee? Of which thy doings, thou shalt receive a sufficient reward, by usurping the coun∣terfeit Name of a King.

He had no heart to make answer, or to excuse his offence, saving that he said: He took upon him to be a King, because he might deliver him the possession of the Country; which thing if he had omitted, some o∣ther, he said, would have taken it in hand. Then A∣lexander called for Oxatres, Darius Brother, whom he had placed about his person, and committed Bes∣sus to his keeping, to the intent he should cut off his Ears and Nose, and hang him upon a Cross, causing his own men to shoot him through with Arrows, and so preserve his body that Birds should not touch him. Oxatres promised to perform all the rest, sa∣ving the keeping away the Birds; which for the de∣sire he had to set forth Catenes cunning, he affirm∣ed that none could so well keep them away as he, who did shoot so assuredly, that he could strike the Birds flying in the Air: And though it was a cun∣ning not so much to be marvelled at in a Nation so expert in shooting, yet it was greatly admired by such as did behold him, and it was great honour un∣to the doer. He gave rewards unto such as were the

Apprehenders of Bessus; but he deferred his punish∣ment, because he minded to put him to death in the same place where he slew Darius.

In the mean season, the Macedons going a forra∣ging without order, were overthrown by the Ene∣mies that came running down the next Mountains: They took more then they did kill; and driving their prisoners before them, retired again unto the Mountains. There were of them to the number of twenty thousand, who accustomed to live by Theft, using Slings and Bows in their Fight, whom while Alexander did besiege, and in a Skirmish pressed upon the foremost, he was stricken with an Arrow in the midst of his Leg, where the Head did stick fast. The Macedons that were sorrowful and ama∣zed for their Kings hurt, carried him into his Tent; of whose departure out of the Field his Enemies were not ignorant, for they might behold all things from the Mountains. The next day they sent Em∣bassadours to Alexander, whom he admitted to his presence, and unfolding his wounds (whereby he thought to dissemble the greatness thereof) he shewed his Leg unto them: When they were com∣manded to sit down, they said, That hearing of his hurt, they were as sorrowful for it as his own Subjects, which should well be known; for if they could finde out the person that did the deed, he should be delivered into his hands: They could not (they said) but judge them sacrilegious persons, who would fight with gods, of whose number they supposed him to be; and there∣fore were determined to yield themselves. Thereupon he gave them assurance, and receiving again his men that were taken prisoners, he admitted them to be his Subjects.

That done, he removed his Camp, and was carri∣ed in a Litter, for the bearing whereof, the Horse∣men and Footmen contended together; the Horse∣men alledged it to be their Office, because the King used to fight amongst them; and the Footmen al∣ledged, that in as much as they used to carry the wounded Souldiers, they thought no reason their Office should be taken from them, chiefly when the King should be carried. Alexander therefore in so great contention of both parties, thought it a diffi∣cult matter for him to give sentence, because the judgment should be grievous to them that should be put by their Office; and therefore ordered that they should carry him by course.

From thence, the fourth day, he came unto a City called Maracanda, the Walls whereof were three∣score and ten furlongs about, but the Castle was without any Wall: He set a Garrison in the City, and then burned and destroyed the Country there∣abouts. Embassadours came unto him thither from those Scythians which are called Avians, who had been free since the time that Cyrus was among them, but yet they shewed themselves then ready to be at his Commandment: They were known to be the most righteous people of all the barbarous Nations, as men that never used to make War, but when they were provoked; whose moderation and temperance in using of their liberty, made the Inferi∣ours equal unto the Superiours,

Alexander received them gently, and sent Peni∣das, a Friend of his, to those Scythians that inha∣bited within Europe, to forbid them to pass the River of Tanais without his appointment: He had

also a secret Commission to view the scituation of that Country, and to visit those Scythians that inhabited about Bosphorus. He willed him besides, to chuse out a place upon the brink of Tanais, where he might build a City, to remain as a For∣tress, for the subduing of the people that he in∣tended to visit.

But this designe was delayed by the Rebellion of the Sogdians, who had also drawn the Bactrians to their part. There were of them seven thousand Horsemen, whose Authority the rest followed: For the subduing of whom, Alexander caused Spitame∣nes and Catones (the Betrayers of Bessus) to be sent for, thinking by their means to bring the Country again to his obedience, and to suppress those who had made this stir: But they who were judg∣ed meet to stay the Rebellion, and were sent for to that intent, were the chief Authors of that Rebel∣lion; for they caused it to be noised abroad, that Alexander had sent for the Bactrian Horsemen of purpose to destroy them all; which Commissi∣on (they said) being appointed to them, they would not execute, because they thought it too foul an act to commit against their Country∣men; and for that cause they could as ill bear A∣lexanders cruelty then, as in times past Bessus Trea∣son.

By this means, when the fear of death was put into their heads, they were easily stirred to Arms, to which before they were sufficiently inclined of their own mindes. When Alexander was advertised of their doings, he willed Craterus to besiege Cyropolis, and he himself won another City

of that Country, by an assault that he gave to it on all parts at once; and by a signe given, caused all the Children to be put to death, making the rest a prey for the Souldiers: This done, the City was razed to the ground, to the intent, that others by their example might be kept in obedience. There were a valiant people, called Memacenans, who were determined to abide the Siege, not only for their honesties sake, but also for that they thought it most for their Surety: For the mitigating of their wilfulness, the King sent unto them fifty Horsemen, to declare his Clemency towards such as submitted themselves, and how inexorable he was unto such as he overcome by force: Their answer was, That they neither doubted the Kings Promise, nor his Pow∣er: But after their answer given, they lodged them without the walls; where entertaining them with great Chear until it was mid-night, they set upon them, and slew them all.

Alexander was no less moved with this Act, then the cause required: He therefore made an assault upon the City on all parts at once; which he found furnished in such wise, that he could not take it at the first attempt: Wherefore he appointed Melea∣ger and Perdicas unto the Siege thereof, who then were besieging of Cyropolis, minding to spare the same, because it was builded by Cyrus; for he had not so great admiration of any King that had Reigned in those parts, as of him and Semiramis, whose magnanimity of minde, and great atchieve∣ments, seemed to him to exceed the rest: But the obstinate wilfulness of the Inhabitants stirred up his wrath; for when he had taken the City, he willed

the Macedons to spoil it, who had enough cause to be moved against them; and so returned to Melea∣ger and Perdicas. There was not one City that did more valiantly abide the Siege, then the same did; for both the hardiest of the Souldiers that were slain, and the King was brought in great danger, being struck in the Neck with a stone, so that his sight failed him; and he was felled to the Earth, and for the present lost his sense. The Army lamented, thinking he had been dead: But he was invincible against those things which put other men in most fear; for without tarrying, he dressed his wound, returning to the Fight: and after anger had stirred up the eagerness he had of Nature, he renewed the assault more fiercely then before. At length a great piece of the Wall was overthrown by a Mine, at which he brake in, and put the whole City to Sack and Ruine. He sent from thence Menedemus with 3000 Footmen, and 800 Horsemen, to the City of Maracanda, which Spitamenes had newly taken, and put out from thence the Garrison of the Macedons, the Citizens not consenting to it: But when they saw they could not withstand him, it was of necessity for them to agree to his will.

Alexander, in the mean season, came to the River of Tanais, where he inclosed about with a wall so much ground as his Camp did contain, extending in compass 60 furlongs, and named the same Ci∣ty Alexandria. This was done with such expediti∣on, that within seventeen days after the walls were raised, the houses also were builded, and the whole work was performed in a very small season, through

the contention amongst the Souldiers, who should perform his work first, when the same was divided into portions amongst them. The prisoners (whose Ransoms Alexander paid to their Takes) were ap∣pointed to inhabit this City; the descent of whom, after so long time, are not worn out, such favour hath been shewed them in the memory of Alex∣ander. The King of Scythia, whose Empire was then beyond the River of Tanais, judging that the fortifying upon the Rivers side should be as a Yoke to his Neck, did send his Brother Carcasis with a great power of Horsemen to beat down the For∣tification, and to remove away the Macedons from the waters side: That River divideth the Bactrians from the Scythians of Europe, and is the limit which parteth Asia and Europe asunder: But the Countries that the Scythians do inhabit, do stretch as far as Thracia, and lye betwixt the North and the East, joyning with Sarmatia, and possessing part of it. The Country also that lieth beyond the River of Isther, is inhabited by them; their utmost bounds stretching to Bactria, and to the furthest bounds of Asia Northwards, where are wonderful great Woods, and wilde Desarts: But such of them as bounded near unto Tanais and Bactria, wanted not much of the civility of other Nations.

This being the first time that Alexander had to do with these people, when he saw that he had to enter into a War for the which he was not provi∣ded, his Enemies riding up and down in his sight, and he diseased of his wound, especially not ha∣ving the use of his speech, which failed much by reason of his long abstinence, and the pain in his

Neck, he called his friends to counsel, and decla∣red unto them, that he was not troubled with any fear of his enemies, but with the iniquity of the time; the Bactrians rebelling, and the Scythians provoking him, when he was neither able to stand upon the ground, nor strong enough to ride on Horseback, nor yet in case to give advice or exhor∣tation to his men: In consideration therefore of the doubtful danger in which he saw himself involved, he accused the gods; complaining, that he was then inforced to lye still, whose swiftness before-time none was able to escape.

The danger grew so great, that his own men believed he had counterfeited his sickness for fear: And therefore he, who since the overthrow of Da∣rius had left Consultation with the Diviners and Prophets, turned himself again to the vanity and superstition of men, willing Aristander (unto whom he was addicted most) that he should try out by Sacrifice what his success should be: The Custom of them who were called Aruspices, was to consi∣der the Entrails of the Beasts without the King, and to make report of the signification. In the mean season, while they were searching secrets that way, he willed Ephestion, Craterus, Erigius, and others of his Friends, to draw near about him, lest by strain∣ing his voice, he might break out his wound again, and said thus unto them:

The danger I am in, hath caused the time to serve better for mine Enemies, then for me: Necessity, I see, chiefly in the Wars, doth go before Reason; for it is seldom given to men to chuse their own time: The Bactrians are revolted, upon whose Shoulders yet we

stand, purposing to try what courage we are of by our behaviour towards the Scythians. If we leave off with doubtful fortune, and not meddle with them, who of their own minde have provoked us, we shall, at our return, be had in contempt of them whom we intend to visit: But if we shall pass the River of Tanais, and by the destruction of the Scythians, shew our selves invincible every where, who will then doubt but Europe will lye open, and give Obedience to us being Victors? He is deceived, that doth measure by any distance the bounds of glory we intend to pass: There is but one River that letteth us now, for bring∣ing of our Power over into Europe; which if we shall effect, what an estimation shall it be for us, whiles we be subduing of Asia, to set up the Monuments of our Victories, as it were, in a new World, joyning so soon together with one Victory, that which Nature seemeth to have divided with so great a distance? But if we shall stay never so little, and give ground, the Scythians will then come after us, and pursue us in the Rear. Are there no more but we who have pas∣sed Rivers? There are many Inventions yet remaining amongst our selves, whereby we have gotten many Vi∣ctories: But fortune of the War doth teach policy to such as are overcome; we have shewed a President of late, to swim over Rivers upon Bottles; which thing if the Scythians cannot do, the Bactrians shall teach them: It is but the Power of one Nation that now cometh against you; all the others stand yet in a stay, to understand of our doings: So that by eschewing a Battel, we shall nourish War, and be compelled to re∣ceive those blows, which lye in us to give to others. The reason of my advice is manifest: But whether the

Macedons will suffer me to use my own disposition, I much doubt; because since I received this Wound, I have not ridden on Horseback, nor gone on Foot. If you will follow me, my Friends, I am recovered, I have strength enough to endure these things; and if the end of my life be at hand, wherein can I spend it better?

These words that he spake, were uttered with a broken and weak voice, so that they could scarcely be heard of such as were next him: But when his meaning was perceived, all that were present went about to divert him from so rash an Enterprise: But Erigius wrought chiefly in the matter, who percei∣ving that his Authority could not prevail against the Kings obstinate minde, attempted to work him by Religion, which he judged of greater force: For he declared, that the gods were against his determi∣nation, who had signified great peril to ensue, if he passed the River: He said he had understood that thing by Aristander, who told him at his com∣ing into the Pavilion, what he had perceived in the Entrails of the Beasts. Alexander at these words was wonderfully troubled with anger and shame, when he saw the secrets of that Religion brought to light, which he thought to have kept secret to himself; and therefore caused Erigius to go aside, and Aristander to be called in unto him, whom he beheld in the face, and said:

I seem to thee rather a private man then a King; I commanded thee to sacrifice, and thou hast declared the signification thereof to others, and not to me: For Eri∣gius, by thy report, knoweth the secrecie appertaining to me: But surely, I believe that through his own fear

he devised an interpretation of himself: Therefore let me hear from thy own mouth what thou hast found in the Entrails, to the intent that thou shalt not deny what thou hast spoken.

Aristander thereupon was amazed, and looked pale, not able to answer one word for fear: But at length, the same fear that made him hold his peace, invited him to speak; and lest the prolonging of the Kings expectation, might provoke him unto further wrath, he answered:

I said (quoth he) that there was in the Enterprise great danger and difficulty; bu〈…〉〈…〉 〈…〉〈…〉 your attempt should not be in vain: there is nothing that I have perceived by my Science, that troubleth me so much as the love I bear to you; for I both consider your infir∣mity, and what a moment consisteth in your person, fearing you should not be able to endure the things that fortune is disposed to give unto you.

When Alexander heard him speak after that man∣ner, he willed him to have confidence in his fideli∣ty, to whom Fortune had granted glory in greater things; and thereupon dismissed him. Afterwards, as the King was debating with such as he consulted with before, by what means he should pass the Ri∣ver, Aristander came amongst them, affirming, that he had found the Entrails contrary to what he did before, with as likely signes of good success as any that ever he saw; shewing them then as great cau∣ses to rejoyce, as he did before to fear. But imme∣diately hereupon Alexander received news that much impaired that felicity he was wont to have in all his proceedings: Menedemus being sent (as it hath been said before) to besiege Spitamenes, the Author

of the Bactrian Rebellion, when he understood of his Enemies coming, both in avoiding to be in∣closed within the Walls, and trusting besides to take some advantage of the Macedons, he laid an ambuscado to intrap them. There was a Wood through the which they should pass, very apt for the purpose, where he laid the Dahans, who were accustomed to carry two armed men upon one Horse, from whence they used to leap down by course; and because the swiftness of the Footmen was little inferiour to the Horsemen, they troubled greatly the order of the Horsemens fight. Spita∣menes gave order to them, that when they should enter into the Wood, they should environ them on all sides; which they performed according to his appointment.

Menedemus seeing himself inclosed on all parts, and not equal in number unto his Enemies, resisted a great while, crying out to the Souldiers, that there remained no hope to them, being intrapped af∣ter that manner, but, by making slaughter upon their Enemies, to receive the comfort of an honest death. Menedemus rode upon a strong Horse, charging oft-times upon his Enemies, whereby he brake their order, and made great slaughter, till such time as he being laid at on all parts, received many wounds, and fainted for want of bloud. Then he exhorted Hispides, that was one of his Friends, to leap upon his Horse, and escape away; and with that word he swounded, and fell from his Horse to the ground. Hispalis might have got away, but after he had lost his friend, he determined there to die, taking no other care but how to lose his life

with the ruine of his Enemies. Wherefore he put his Spurs to his Horse, and ran in amongst them, where he fought notably, and at length was slain.

When the rest saw his overthrow, and the loss of their Captains, they recovered an Hill, where Spitamenes did besiege them, thinking to subdue them for want of Victuals. There were slain in the Battel two Thousand Foot∣men, and three Hundred Horsemen; which misadventure Alexander with great policy kept secret, commanding them that departed from the Field, upon pain of death not to publish this Defeat. But when he could not bear out any longer a countenance contrary to his heart, he went alone to his Pavilion which he had set of purpose upon the Rivers side. There he walked all night, devising with himself what was best to do; and divers times he lifted up his Tent to be∣hold the Fires in his Enemies Camp, thereby to conjecture their number.

When the day appeared, he put on a Corslet, and came forth among the Souldiers, being the first time they had seen him since he received his hurt. They bore such a veneration unto their King, that with his presence only they put away the remem∣brance of the fear which caused them before to shrink; and rejoyced so heartily, that when they saluted him, the tears distilled from their eyes, and earnestly desired the Fight which they had before ••••used. He took order there amongst them, that the Horsemen, and such as were of the square Bat∣tel of Footmen should be carried over in Boats, and

that the light armed should swim upon Bottles. The business required not much more to be spoken, neither could the King say much more by reason of his infirmity; for the Souldiers went about it with such chearfulness of minde, that within three dayes they had finished twelve Thousand Boats. When all things were prepared in readi∣ness for their Passage, there came twenty Embassa∣dors of the Scythians riding by the Camp, who re∣quired that it might be reported to the King, that they had something in Commission to declare unto him.

When they were received into his Pavilion, and commanded to sit down, they fixed their eyes con∣tinually upon the Kings countenance; whereby it was thought, that weighing the greatness of his courage by his personage which they saw pre∣sent, it appeared unto them but small in respect of the Fame they heard of him. The wits of the Scythians are not rude, and without knowledge, as other barbarous Nations are. For it is said, that many of them attain to such Learning, as it is possible for a Nation being always in exercise of the Wars. Their words spoken unto Alexander are left in memory; who though they differ from the manner of us, who live in more civil times, and frame our selves to more humanity, yet the fide∣lity of the matter is not to be despised, though the phrase of their Speech is rough. And therefore I shall declare uncorruptly the words which the Eldest of these Embassadors did speak after this manner.

If the gods had given thee a Body according to the

unsatiable desire of the minde, the world should not be able to receive thee, but thou shouldest touch the Orient with one hand, and the Occident with the other; which thing once obtained, thy care should be to become equal to the gods. Thus thou dost covet the thing thou art not able to compass. From Europe thou goest into Asia, and from Asia to Europe. It must come to pass, that if thou doest overcome all mankinde, thou must make war with Woods and Snows, with Rivers and wilde Beasts. What? art thou ignorant that Trees do grow till they are great, and then are plucked up from the root in a moment? He is a fool that coveteth fruit, and consi∣dereth not the height of the Tree whereon it groweth. Take heed lest whiles thou dost labour to attain to the top▪ thou fallest with the Bough which thou doest im∣brace. The ••ion hath been sometime the food of small Birds, and the Rust doth consume the Iron. There is nothing so sure, that is not in danger of its inferiour. What have we to do with thee? we never touched thy Countrey. Is it not desired by us that live in the waste. Woods to be ignorant what thou art, and from whence thou comest? for we can neither be subject to any man, nor do desire to rule over any creature. And because you shall not be ignorant of the state of our Nation, we have certain gifts in proper to us: as the yoak of Oxen, the Plough, the Spear, the Bow, and the Boal, which are the things that we use both with our Friends, and against our Enemies. We give unto Friends of the fruits got with our labours. With the Boal we sacrifice wine unto the gods; with the Bow we strike our Ene∣mies afar off, and with the Spear near at hand. Af∣ter that sort in times past we overcame the King of Scy∣thia, and afterwards the King of Persia and Media,

making the way open to us into Egypt. But thou who doest glory, that thou art come to be a perse••uter of Thieves, art a ••obber of all Nations that thou comest amongst. Thou hast taken Lydia, possessed Syria, enjoyed Persia, and hast the Bactrians under thy power. Thou hast visited the Indians, and now stretchest forth thy ra∣venous hands unto our cattel. Why dost thou covet that wealth which causeth thee to be poor? Thou art the first of all men who with abundance hast prepared ••unger for thy self, and the more thou hast, the more greedily doest thou covet the things thou hast not. Doest thou not re∣member how long thou didst stay about Bactria? And whiles thou didst go about to subdue them the Sogdians began to rebell. Thus War doth grow unto thee out of Victory; for be thou never so great and puissant above any other, yet there are none that can endure to be governed by a stranger. Pass now Tanais, thou shalt perceive what breadth it heareth, and yet thou shall never overtake the Scythians, whose poverty is swifter than thy Army car∣rying the spoil of so many Nations. For when thou shalt think us to be afar off, thou shalt see us within thy Camp: with like swiftness we follow and flie away. I hear that our desarts are scorned by the Greek Proverbs, we covet rather desarts and places unhabited then Cities & plen∣tiful Countries Therefore hold thou thy fortune fast, for she is fickle, and cannot be kept against her will. Fallow the counsel that is good, especially when the time doth serve. But a bridle to thy felicity, and thou shalt govern it the better We say that fortune is without feet & that she hath only hands and wings: but when she putteth f••rth her hand, she will not suffer her wings to be touched. If thou art a god, give benefits to mortal men, & tak•• not a∣way the commodities they have already. If thou art a man

consider thine own estate, it is foolishness to remember those things which cause thee to forget thy self. Such as by War thou makest thine enemies, by peace thou mayest make thy friends. The most firm friendship is amongst them that be equal; and they seem equal, who have not yet made any trial of their Force. Take heed thou takest them not for thy friends, whom thou didst subdue and bring to subjection. There is no friendship be∣tween the Lord and the Slave: and in peace the law of Arms is observed. Think not that the Scythians do confirm their friendship with any oath; for they think they swear in keeping of their faith The cu∣stome of the Greeks is to justifie their doings by cal∣ling their gods to witness: but we acknowledge Re∣ligion to consist in faith. They that do not their due reverence unto men, deceive the gods▪ Think not those Friends to be necessary unto thee, of whose good will thou shalt need to doubt. Thou mayest use us as Keepers both of Europe and Asia; for we should joyn with Bactria, but that Tanais doth devide us: and beyond Tanais our Dominion stretcheth so far as Thra∣cia; and the Fame is, that Thracia confineth with Macedon. Consider therefore, whether it be necessary for thee or no, to receive us as Friends, or to visit us as Enemies to thy Empires.

These were the Scythians words; to whom the King made Answer:

That he would both use his own Fortune, and their Counsel that advised him well. He would follow his Fortune (he said,) because he had great confidence in it; and other mens Counsel because he would do nothing unadvisedly, nor upon the sudden.

Thereupon he dismissed the Embassadors, and

imbarked his Army in the Boats he had prepared. In the foreparts of the Boats he set such as had Tar∣gets, willing them to kneel upon their knees for their more safeguard against the shot of the Arrows. And those were placed behinde them who had the charge of the Engines, being both before and on both sides inclosed with armed m••n. The rest that stood beyond the Engines, being armed themselves, defended with Targets such as rowed. The same order was also observed in those Boats that carried over the Horsemen. The greater part drew their Horses after them by the reins, swimming at the stern of the Boats; and such as were carried up∣on trusses filled with straw, were defended by the Boats that rowed betwixt them and their Ene∣mies.

Alexander with such men as he had chosen to be about his Person, first lanched from the Land, and directed his course to the further side. The Scy∣thians came against them with their Horsemen in order of Battel, standing upon the brink of the fur∣ther shore to oppose their landing: whose shew being a terrour to the Macedons, they had also ano∣ther cause of fear in their passing over: For the Boat-masters were not able to keep their course against the force of the stream. And the Souldi∣ers swaying to and fro, for the doubt they had to fall in the water, troubled the Mariners in the do∣ing of their office. By reason whereof the Mace∣dons could not have scope to cast their Darts with any force; taking more care how to place them∣selves out of peril, then to annoy their enemies. Their Engines stood them in great stead, which seldome

did shoot in vain against their Enemies that stood thick before them, attempting to resist their land∣ing. When the Scythians saw them near the shore, they did shoot an infinite number of Arrows into the Boats, so that there was not almost any Target that had not many heads sticking in it. At length the Boats arrived at the land, then the Target-men did rise upon their feet, and having more scope and surer footing, threw their Darts more certainly and with greater force: whereby perceiving their Ene∣mies to shrink and rein back their Horses, they leaped chearfully unto the land, one exhorting and encouraging another, and vigorously pursued them, when they saw them to fall out of array. By that time Alexanders Horsemen who had assembled themselves in Troops, brake upon their Enemies, and put them to great disorder. In the mean sea∣son, the rest being defended by them that were fighting, landed, and prepared themselves to the Battel. Alexander with the stoutness of his courage supplied the impotency of his body. His voice could not be heard when he spake and exhorted his men (the scar of his wound not yet closed) but all men might see him fighting; wherefore every one used the office of a Captain in giving exhortation unto his fellows, and ran upon their Enemies with∣out respect of their own lives. Then the Scythians could not endure any longer the countenance, the force, nor the cry of their Enemies; but being all on Horseback fled away upon the Spur, whom the King pursued eighty Furlongs, notwithstanding that with great pain he endured his infirmity. When his heart fainted, he commanded his men that they

should follow still in the chase as long as the day lasted, and having not strength to sustain any further travel, he returned into his Camp to rest himself.

The Macedons in their pursuit passed the bounds of Bacchus, in monument of whom there were great stones set up of equal distance, and high trees whose stocks were covered over with Ivy. But no bounds could be a stay to the Macedons, being carried for∣wards in their fury; for it was midnight before they returned again to their Camp, who having killed many, and taken a great number of prisoners, did drive before them a thousand eight hundred Horses. There were slain of the Macedons, threescore Horse∣men, of the Footmen one hundred, and about one thousand hurt. This enterprise with the fame of the Victory falling in so good a season, kept the greatest part of Asia in obedience, which were at the point to have rebelled. For they believed the Scythians to be invincible; who being vanquished, they judged no Nation able to withstand the power of the Macedons.

The Sacans after this Victory sent their Embassa∣dours unto Alexander, offering themselves to come under his obedience; to the doing whereof, they were not so greatly moved with fear of his Force, as they were with report of his clemency used to∣wards the Scythians, after he had discomfited them: For he delivered home all the prisoners without ransome, to witness unto the world, that he made War with those fierce Nations to shew his power and his vertue, and not for any malice, or to shew his wrath upon them. That was the cause

that he so gently received the Embassadors of the Sacans, causing Excipinus to accompany them, who being in the first flower of his youth, was for that respect in great favour and samilia∣rity with Alexander. In personage he resembled Ephestion, but inferiour to him in pleasantness of speech.

After this, Alexander giving order to Craterus to follow him by small journeys with the greater part of his Army, he himself came to the City of Mara∣canda, from whence Spitamenes who heard of his coming was fled into Bactria. The King therefore making great journeys four days continually, came into the place where, under the conduct of Menede∣mus, he had lost two thousand Footmen, and three hundred Horsemen. He caused their bones to be gathered together, celebrating their Funerals after their Countrey manner. By that time Craterus with the Phalanx was come to the King; and to the intent he might punish with the Sword all such as had rebelled, he divided his power into divers parts, commanding them to burn in every place where they marched, and to kill all the children.

The Countrey of the Sogdians for the most part is waste, by reason of the great desarts that stretch overthwart the Countrey. The River called Po∣litimetum passeth almost through the length of it, and runneth a space violently in a narrow channel, and then is received into a hole of the Earth; from whence it passeth underneath the ground, the course of it being manifest by the noise of the water that may be hear; and yet on all the ground under which so great a River doth run, there doth not appear any moisture put forth.

Of the Captives that were taken among the Sogdians, there were thirty of the most Noble brought to Alexander; who, understanding by an Interpreter, that by the Kings commandment they should be put to Execution, began as men in mirth to sing and dance; and by a certain wanton moti∣on of their bodies, expressed a great joyfulness of the minde. Alexander marvelling that they took their death with such stoutness and magnanimity of heart, called them unto him, enquiring why they expressed so great a joy when they had death before their face? They answered, That if they had been put to death by any, except by such a one as he was, they should have taken their death sorrowfully: But now seeing they should be restored to their Pre∣decessours by a King that was Conquerour of all Na∣tions, they rejoyced in their honest death, as the thing all men should wish and desire. The King then marvelling at their magnanimity; I enquire of you (quoth he) if you can be content to live, and become Friends to him, by whose benefit you shall receive life? They said, That as they never were his Enemies, but as they were provoked by occa∣sion of the Wars, even so if he would make an experi∣ment of them rather by a benefit then an injury, they would labour not to be overcome in good will, nor in doing any thing that pertained to their duty. He asked what pledge they would give of their pro∣mise? They answered, Their Lives they had re∣ceived should be their Pledges, ready to be yielded again when it was required. Therein they brake no promise; for such as returned home into their Countreys, kept the people in good obedience:

And four of them that were appointed to be of the Kings Guard, gave place to none of the Macedons in love or affection towards their Prince.

When he had ordered all things among the Sog∣dians, he left Peucolaus there with three thousand men of War, and removed into Bactria; from whence he commanded Bessus to be carried to Ecbatana, there to suffer death for the killing of Darius. About the same time Ptolomeus and Menidas brought three thousand Footmen, and a thousand Horsemen of mercenary Souldiers; and one Alexander came to him out of Lycia with three thousand Footmen, and five hundred Horsemen. Asclepiodorus had levied the like number out of Syria. Antipater sent eight thousand Greeks; amongst whom there were five hundred Horsemen. When he had thus recruited his Army, he went about in every place to quiet those stirs that had been raised up by the Rebellion; and having slain them that were the Authors and Beginners thereof, the fourth day he came to the River of Oxus, which being a water unwholsome to be drunk (because it is troubled and full of mud) the Macedons fell to digging of Wells; and when by digging deep they could finde no water, a Spring suddenly appeared in the Kings Tent; which, because it was not found at the first, they feigned it to come by miracle. There∣with the King was well pleased, and contented men should believe that the same was sent by the gift of God.

When he had passed the Rivers of Ochus and Oxus, they came unto a City called Marginia, near unto the which he chose out places for the building of six

Towns; whereof he planted two towards the South, and four towards the East; every one distant not far from another; to the intent, that their mutual assistance in time of need should not be far to seek. They were all scituate upon high hills, as bri∣dles to keep under those wilde Nations: But now they have forgotten their original, and are subject to those they were wont to rule.

The King having subdued all the Country, one Rock only remained, which Arimazes a Sogdian had taken with thirty thousand armed men, and fur∣nished the same with Victuals for two years. The same Rock was thirty furlongs in height, and an hundred and fifty in compass, being in all parts steep and broken, having one streight path only to pass up unto it. In the mid way to the top, it had a cave, which was narrow and dark in the entry, but by little and little it waxed wider, and had more lodgings within for a great multitude, and was besides so full of Springs, that when they met together, they ran down the Rock like a great River.

Alexander beholding the strength of this place, and the difficulty to win it, determined to depart from thence: But there entred suddenly into his heart a desire to weary Nature, and to work against her power. Yet before he would attempt the fortune of any Siege, he sent Cophes the Son of Artabasus, to perswade them to surrender it. A∣rimazes, upon trust of the strength of the place, answered in all things arrogantly, but especi∣ally in that he asked if Alexander could flie? Which words being reported to the King, did

put him in such a fury, that straightways he called for such as he used to consult withal, decla∣ring the pride and presumption of Arimazeus, and after what manner he had scorned him. But shortly (he said) he would devise such a Policy, that he would make him think that the Mace∣dons had wings: He commanded therefore that out of the whole Army they should chuse out and bring to him three hundred of the most light young men had been accustomed to drive beasts amongst the Rocks, and streight paths of the Mountains: whereupon they brought such to the King, as both for lightness of body, and hardiness of heart were most meet for that purpose; unto whom he said:

My Fellows of mine own Age, with you have I won Cities that were counted inexpugnable, and have passed the tops of Mountains covered continually with Snow. With you I have gone through the streights of Cilicia, and have without weariness sustained the violence of the cold, whereby I have experience of you, and you of me. The Rock you see hath but one entry, which our Enemies do observe, the rest they neglect. They keep no Watch but towards our Camp. If you diligently search, you shall find some way to bring you to the top. Nature hath made nothing so high, but that it may be attained to by the industry of man. In putting things in proof, whereof others have despaired, we have gotten Asia into our posses∣sion: contrive you the means to get up unto the top, which when you have taken, you shall give a token to me by setting up some white Cloath. You shall see me then come forwards with my power, and turn the

Enemies from you towards me. He shall have ten Talents for a reward, who doth recover the top first; and he that getteth up next shall have one less; and the like order shall be observed with Ten of the first. I am assured you regard not so much my liberalitie as my favour.

When they had heard the King speak after that manner, they imagined the thing done; and departing out of his presence, they prepared strong Ropes and iron Hooks, which they fastened to the Rocks, and so climbed up. The King brought them about the Rock, whereas it seemed least steep and most plain to mount upon, and in the second Watch willed them to pass for∣wards with good speed. They being furnished with two days Victuals, and armed only with Swords and Spears, at first went forwards with∣out any great difficulty; but when they came to the steepness of the Rock, some took hold of the broken crags to lift up themselves, and some fa∣stening their Hooks on the Rocks, climbed up by the Ropes: They were compelled to rest and stay divers times, and so consumed that day in travel and fear.

When they had passed many difficult places, further labours appeared, the height of the Rock seeming to grow more and more. When they failed either of their hold or of their footing, it was a miserable thing to see how they fell down headlong, shewing by their mis-fortune, an ex∣ample to others what was likely to come of them. Notwithstanding at length, through all these dif∣ficulties they got up unto the top, where wearied

with the travel of their continual labour, and some with the hurts and maims they had recei∣ved, they slept all that night amongst the wild and rough Rocks, unmindful of the peril they were in.

When it was day, they awaked out of their deep sleep, and beholding the valleys underneath them, they were ignorant in what part of the Rock so great a multitude of their Enemies should lie. But at length, when they perceived by the smoke in what place they were, they upon the points of two spears set up the signe that was appointed them, and found that in their coming up they had lost two and thir∣ty. The King being careful not so much for the de∣sire he had to win the Rocks, as to save those whom he had exposed to so manifest a danger, stood all day beholding the top of the Mountain; and when the darkness of the night took away the prospect of the eyes, he departed to refresh his body. The next day before it was full light, he perceived the white Cloth set up on the top of the Rock; but the variety of the Air, the Sun beginning to arise, and yet clouded, caused him to doubt a while whether his sight had failed him or not. But when it was full and open day, it was manifestly appa∣rent, and all doubt was removed. Then he called Cophes, by whom he had attempted their mindes before, willing him once again to exhort them to be better advised; and if so be that in the trust of their strength, they would not submit themselves, that then he should shew to them those Souldiers that had taken the Rock over their heads. When Cophes came thither, he began to perswade Ari∣mazes

to give up his strength, thereby to win the Kings favour; and not inforce Alexander to stay in the Siege of a Rock, having so many weighty af∣fairs in hand: But he found him more obstinate and proud then he did before, and willed Cophes to de∣part, and move him no more on that subject. Then he took Arimazes by the hand, and required him to go with him out of the Cave: When they were come where they might look about, he shew∣ed him those that were gotten to the top of the Rock; and scorning then his pride, he asked of him, whether Alexanders Souldiers had gotten wings or no?

By that time the Trumpets were blown in the Macedons Camp, they might hear the Alarm that was made in the Army, which, as many vain and trifling things are wont in the Wars to grow to great effect, so it was the cause that they yeilded themselves; for fear so troubled them, that they could not consider the small number that were over their heads, but called Cophes again in great haste, who was departed away, and sent with him unto Alexander thirty of the chief men, authorized to yeild up the Rock, with composition to depart in safety.

But Alexander, notwithstanding that he doubt∣ed lest his Enemies discovering the fewness of his men, might put them to distress; yet trusting in the felicity of his own Fortune, and offended with the pride of Arimazes, would agree to no condition, but that they should yeild simply. A∣rimazes thereupon despairing more of his state,

then he had cause, descended down to the Camp with the chiefest of the Nation that were of Kin to him: All whom Alexander caused to be scourged with Rods, and then to be crucified at the foot of the Rock. The multitude that yielded, with the money that there was taken, were given in gift to the Inhabitants of the new Cities; and the Rule of the said Rock was committed unto Artabasus, with the Charge of the Country thereabouts.