The historical library of Diodorus the Sicilian in fifteen books : the first five contain the antiquities of Egypt, Asia, Africa, Greece, the islands, and Europe : the last ten an historical account of the affairs of the Persians, Grecians, Macedonians and other parts of the world : to which are added the fragments of Diodorus that are found in the Bibliotheca of Photius : together with those publish'd by H. Valesius, L. Rhodomannus, and F. Ursinus / made English by G. Booth ..., Esq.

CHAP. I.

Agathocles designs to invade Africa. His Cruelty; Pursu'd in his Voyage. An Eclipse of the Sun very great. Lands in Africa. Burns his Ships. His successes in Africa. Hanno and Bomilcar made Generals in Africa. Battel between them and Agathocles, who routs them, Kills Hanno. His stratagem by Owls. The Cruel Superstition of the Carthaginians in sacrificing their Children. The Actions at Syracuse. Actions of Agathocles in Africa. The Acts of Cassander in Ma∣cedonia. Polysperchon seeks to restore Hercules Alexander's Son. The mise∣rable Destruction of Nichocles and his Family in Cyprus. The Wars of Parysi∣das his Sons, King of the Cimerean Bosphorus. The Valour of Satyrus, one of the Sons; His Death. The sad Death of Eumelus, another Son.

IN the Chancellorship of Hieromnemones at Athens, and the Consulship of Caius Julius * 1.1 and Quintus Aemilius at Rome; Agathocles being routed at Himera in Sicily by the Car∣thaginians, and having lost the greatest and best Part of his Army, fled to Syracuse; where perceiving that he was for saken of all his Consederates, and that the Barbarians had got into their hands almost all Sicily (except Syracuse) and that they far over-power'd him by their Forces both by Sea and Land, undertook a very Rash and desperate Adven∣ture. For when all were of Opinion that it was not adviseable for him in the least to en∣deavour to contend with the Carthaginians, he even then resolv'd to leave a strong Ga∣rison * 1.2 in the City, and with the Choicest of the rest of his Forces to make a Descent in∣to Africa; and by that means he hop'd by his Old and and experienc'd Soldiers, easily to vanquish the Carthaginians, who (through a long Peace) were grown Soft and Deli∣cate, and unexpert in their Arms; and besides, hereby he thought that their Confede∣rates, who had been for a long time very uneasie under the Yoke of their Government, would take an occasion to Revolt. And which most induc'd him was, That by this sud∣den and unexpected Invasion, he should load himself with the Spoils of a Country that was never before harrass'd, and that abounded in the Confluence of all forts of Worldly Blessings. And to sum up all, That he should by this Course draw the Barbarians, not only out of his own Country, but out of all Sicily, and transfer the War entirely over into Africa, which happen'd accordingly.

For without advising with any of his Friends he made Antandrus, his Brother, Go∣vernor of the City, leaving with him a considerable Garrison; he himself Listed what Soldiers he thought fit for his purpose, ordering the Foot to be ready with Arms at * 1.3 the first Call, and commanded the Horsemen, that besides Arms they should every one carry along with them a Saddle and Bridle, that when ever he could get Horses he might have have those ready to mount them who were furnish'd with all things en∣cessary for that purpose.

For in the late Battle most of his Foot were cut off: but most of his Horse escap'd; but their Horses he could not transport into Africa.

And to prevent all stirrs and commotions (in order to a defection) in Syracuse in his absence, he divided Kindred and Relations one from another, especially Brothers from Brothers, and Parents from Children, taking some along with him and leaving others behind: And he acted in this very wisely; for certain it was, that those who remain'd in Syracuse, although they hated the Tyrant, yet would attempt nothing to his prejudice, by reason of their natural Love and Affection to their Children, and near Relations and Kindred. And because he was in great want of Money, he took the Estates of Infants out of the hands of their Guardians; declaring, That he would have a far greater Care of them than they had, and be more faithful in giving them an Account, and making restitution when they came to full Age. He borrow'd likewise much from the Merchants, and converted to his own use some of the Sacred Treasures of the Tem∣ples; and took the Jewels and Ornaments from the Womens Backs.

Whereupon, discerning that the Richer sort were highly displeas'd and incens'd at this Usage, and for that reason hated him, he call'd a General Assembly, in which he greatly lamented the late Overthrow, and the dreadful Calamities that from thence seem'd to hang over their Heads. He told them, that he indeed that was inur'd to Hardships, could easily endure the Miseries of a Siege; but that he should greatly pity the Citizens, * 1.4 if they should be block••d up, and forc'd to undergo the like. Therefore he order'd those

that were not willing to suffer what might be their Fortune and Lot, to provide for * 1.5 the safety of themselves and their Estates. Upon which, the most wealthy Citizens (who bore a most implacable hatred against him) forthwith left the City: But he presently * 1.6 sent out some of his Mercenaries after them, and cut all their Throats, and consis∣cated their Estates. And thus, when by one and the same Act he had both enrich'd himself, and likewise purg'd the City of those that were his Enemies, he manumitted all the Slaves and Servants that were fit to bear Arms: And now having all things in readiness, and furnish'd with a Fleet of Sixty Sail, he only waited for a fair Wind. His Design being not commonly known, some reported that he intended an Expedition into Italy; others that he purposed to waste and destroy that part of Sicily that belong'd to the Carthaginians; to conclude, every body gave them (who were rea∣dy to Sail) all up for lost Men, and condemn'd the folly and madness of the Prince. The Enemy at that time had a Fleet far exceeding him in number in the Harbour, there∣fore he was forc'd for some days at the first, to lye still with his Men on Board, because he had not an opportunity to set Sail. Afterwards some Transport Ships loaden with Corn, making with full Sail toward the City, the Carthaginians pursu'd them with their whole * 1.7 Fleet: Whereupon Agathocles (almost before in despair to accomplish his Design,) as soon as he saw the Mouth of the Harbor open, causing the Rowers to ply their Oars with all the quickness imaginable, he broke out of the Harbour.

The Carthaginians being now come up near to the Transport Ships, and seeing a Fleet of their Enemies Ships sailing out of the Harbor, thought at first that they came to se∣cure and defend the Corn Ships; Whereupon they tack'd about, and prepar'd to Fight: But when they saw that they made their Course straight forward, and were far before them, they pursu'd them with all the Sail they could; and while these were striving to Out-sail each other, the Transport Ships unexpectedly escap'd the danger, and plentifully supply'd the City that was before in great streights for want of Corn and Provision. Aga∣thocles also, tho' closely pursu'd by the Enemy, by the advantage of the Night coming on (beyond all hope) got safe off * 1.8 from them. The next day there was such an E∣clipse of the Sun, that the Stars appear'd every where in the Firmament, and the Day was turn'd into Night: Upon which Agathocles his Soldiers (conceiving that God there∣by did foretel their Destruction,) fell into great Perplexities and Discontents concerning what was like to befal them. Having therefore sail'd Six Days and Six Nights, early in the Morning they suddenly spy'd the Carthaginian Fleet making up close upon them: Upon which, all set themselves to it with might and main to ply their Oars: The Car∣thaginians concluding, that together with the Ships they should not only take all the Sy∣racusians prisoners, but should deliver their Country from present imminent danger: The Grecians on the other hand saw apparent destruction to themselves before their Eyes, and * 1.9 intolerable Bondage and Slavery to all their Kindred and Relations they had left at home, if they did not recover the Shore before the Enemy. And now Africa was in view when all the Sailers and Rowers call'd out earnestly one to another to bestir them∣selves, so that the strife and pains to get to Land was incredible. The Barbarians indeed were more swift Sailors, because they were more accustom'd to the Sea than the others; but the Grecian Ships kept still a considerable distance before them: Making therefore a∣way with all the Expedition imaginable, when they came near the Shoar, they leap'd out of their Ships in throngs upon the Strand, as if they had been contending for the Mastery at the Gymnastick Games: For the first Squadron of the Carthaginians Ships were come up within a Darts cast of those in the Rear of the Grecian Fleet. After therefore some Contest for a while with their Bows and Slings (a few of the Barbarians Ships on∣ly being come up) Agathocles (overpow'ring the other by number) gain'd the advan∣tage; whereupon the Carthaginians tackt about and stood off a little above the Cast of a Dart. Hereupon Agathocles presently landed his Men at a place call'd the Quarries, * 1.10 and drew a Breast work for the security of his Shipping all along from Sea to Sea: And after he had effected this bold and daring attempt, he set upon another far more dan∣gerous: For taking to him such of his Captains and Commanders as were wholly at his Devotion, he first Sacrificed to Ceres and Proserpina, and then call'd a Council of War; where coming into the Assembly to make his Harangue, splendidly clothed in Royal Robes, and with his Crown upon his Head (after a few things premis'd, to make an in∣troduction to what he had further to say) he told them, That at the time they were pursu'd by the Carthaginians he had made a Vow to the Goddesses Ceres and Proserpina, the * 1.11 Protectoresses of Sicily, that he would Consecrate all the Ships in the Fleet to them, by burning them all into so many burning Lamps; and therefore, since they were now safe and were deliver'd, it was just and fit that they should pay their Vows; and he pro∣mis'd * 1.12

that if they fought couragiously, he would return them far more than those Ships they then had: For the Gods by the Sacrifices, did foretel that they should be Conque∣rors throughout the whole War: While he was speaking, one of his Servants brought him a lighted Firebrand, which catching hold of, and commanding the like to be deliver'd to the rest of the Captains, he invocated the Goddesses, and was the first that made to the Admiral's Vessel, and standing upon the Stern, commanded the rest to follow his Exam∣ple: Whereupon, all the Captains of the Vessels set fire to their Ships, and forthwith the Flame mounted alost, the Trumpets sounded a Charge, and the whole Army set up a shout, and all as one Man offer'd up their joynt Prayers to the Gods, for their safe re∣turn to their own Country. And all this was done by Agathocles, that he might neces∣sitate his Soldiers to fight, without ever thinking of turning their Backs. For it was plain, that having no Shipping left for their last Refuge, they could not have the least hope of safety in any thing but by being absolute Conquerors. Then he consider'd, that having * 1.13 but a small Army, if he would guard his Fleet he must be forc'd to divide it, and so should not be strong enough to venture a Battle; and if he left the Ships without any Guard, they would 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fall into the hands of the Carthaginians. However, while the whole Na∣vy was on fire, and the Flame spread it self round at a great distance, the Hearts of the Sicilians quak'd: For at first, being deluded by the jugling Tricks of Agathocles, and the the quickness of Execution, giving them no time to consider, they all consented to what was done: But when they had leisure distinctly to weigh every particular, they repent∣ed * 1.14 themselves of what they had done; and pondering in their Minds, the vastness of the Sea by which they were separated from their own Country, they utterly despair'd of their Safety and Preservation. Agathocles therefore minding as soon as possibly he could, to cure this Pusilanimity in his Soldiers, led his Army to the * 1.15 great City (as it's call'd) within the Dominion of the Carthaginians. The whole Country through which they march'd, was beautify'd with Gardens, Planted with all sorts of Fruit-Trees, and Sluces, and Canals were cut all along for the convenience of Water, by which that whole Tract was every where abundantly water'd. This part of the Country was likewise full of Towns and Villages, adorn'd with stately Houses, whose Roofs were curiously wrought all setting forth the Wealth and Riches of their Owners. The Houses were full of all man∣ner of Provision of every thing that was needful, for the Inhabitants (through a long Peace) had stor'd up their Treasures in great plenty and abundance. The Country is planted partly with Vines, and partly with Olive-Trees, and furnish'd likewise with ma∣ny other Fruit-Trees: In another part, the Fields are pastur'd with Flocks of Sheep, and Herds of Cows and Oxen; and in the neighbouring Fens run great numbers of breed∣ing Mares. And what shall I say more? Those places abounded with plenty of all things for the use of Man, and the rather for that they were the Possessions of the Nobi∣lity of Carthage, who laid out much of their Estates and Wealth with more then ordina∣ry Curiosity to improve them for their Delight and Pleasure; so that the fertility and sweetness of the Country, was the admiration of the Sicilians, and rouz'd up their droop∣ing * 1.16 Spirits in the view they had of those Rewards, and rich Returns, which they judg'd were well worthy the hazards to be run by the Conquerors to obtain them. Agathocles therefore perceiving that his Soldiers were now recover'd out of their dumps, and former melancholy apprehensions, makes a suddain Assault upon the Walls of the City; which being so surprizing and unexpected, and the Citizens unskilful in their Arms, after a short resistance he took the City by Storm; and gave the plunder of the Town to the Soldiers, which both encourag'd 'em and enrich'd 'em at once. Thence he forthwith * 1.17 mov'd with his Army to * 1.18 Tunis, and gain'd that City, which is Two thousand Fur∣longs from Carthage. The Soldiers would willingly have Garison'd these Two Cities, having Stor'd and laid up in them the Plunder they had got. But Agathocles weighing * 1.19 what was most expedient in his present circumstances; therefore after he had convinc'd the Soldiers, that it was by no means convenient to leave any place to fly to for shelter, till they had conquer'd the Enemy by down-right blows, he raz'd the Citys to the ground, and incamp'd in the open Field. In the mean time the Carthaginians that lay near to the Sicilians Fleet, at first greatly rejoyc'd when they saw their Ships all in a Flame, supposing they were constrain'd to burn their Navy out of fear of their Enemies: But after they perceiv'd them to march forward up into the Country with their whole Army, and imagining what they intended to do, they then concluded, that the burning of the Ships was a design'd mischief to them: Whereupon they spread Leathern Hides upon the Fore-Castles of all their Ships, which is their constant manner when ever any misfortune seems to threaten the Carthaginian Common-wealth; Moreover, they took in∣to their own Gallies the Iron Beaks out of Agathocles's Ships, and sent Expresses to Car∣thage

to give them a particular Account of every thing that had hapned. But before these * 1.20 Messengers reach'd the City, some out of the Country who had discern'd Agathocles his Fleet to be near at hand, presently ran to Carthage to give them an Account, who were there∣upon so amaz'd with the surprizing news of such an unexpected accident, that they forth∣with concluded that their Armies in Sicily were utterly cut off and destroy'd; for that it could not be that Agathocles, unless he were Victorious, would dare to leave Syracuse naked without any Garison, or pass over his Army when at the same time his Enemy was Ma∣ster at Sea. The City therefore was in a great hurly burly, terror and confusion, and the People throng'd into the Market-place, and the Senate met together to consult what was fit to be done in the present Exigency: for they had no Army at hand wherewith to fight the Enemy; besides, the common Citizens being raw and ignorant in matters of War, were altogether heartless, and every body thought the Enemy was then just at their Walls. Some therefore were for sending Ambassadors to Agathocles to propose terms of Peace, who might likewise at the same time discover the posture of the Enemy. Others were for staying and expecting till they should have perfect intelligence of every thing that was done.

While the City was in this hurry and perplexity, arriv'd those that were sent from the Admiral of the Fleet, and declar'd to them all that was done: Whereupon, their Cou∣rage reviv'd; and the Senate blam'd all the Officers of the Fleet, that being Masters at * 1.21 Sea, they should be so careless as to suffer the Enemies Forces to make a Descent upon Africa; and they created Hanno and Bomilcar Generals of their Army, notwithstanding * 1.22 they were at private feuds between themselves, and that ancient grudges had been in their Families one towards another. For they thought that these private Quarrels would much tend to the common advantage of the City: But they were very much mistaken, For Bomilcar had for a long time been ambitious of the Monarchy, but never yet had an opportunity fitted for his purpose to put his Designs in execution, and therefore he gree∣dily imbrac'd the offer of such a Command as was exactly agreeable to what he was aim∣ing at: And the chief cause of these Plots and Contrivances of his, was the severity and cruelty of the Carthaginians: For they advance the most eminent Persons to be Generals in their Wars, because they conclude they'l fight with more Resolution then others, when all lies at stake: But after the Wars are ended and Peace concluded, then they bring false Accusations against them, and most unjustly, through Envy, put them to death: And therefore some Generals out of fear of those unjust Sentences, either give up their Commissions, or seek to be absolute Monarchs; as Bomilcar one of the Carthaginian Ge∣nerals * 1.23 then did; of whom we shall speak by and by.

The Carthaginian Generals therefore seeing now that delays were dangerous, waited not for Soldiers to be rais'd out of the Country, and from the Cities of their Confederates, but led out the Citizens themselves into the Field, having under their Command no * 1.24 less than Forty thousand Foot, a thousand Horse, and Two thousand Chariots; and possessing themselves of a Hill not far from the Enemy, drew up in Batalia: Hanno com∣manded the Right Wing supported by them of the Sacred Brigade: Bomilcar the Lest, making his Phalanx very deep, because the nature of the place would not allow him to extend his wing further in front: The Chariots and Horsemen he plac'd in the Van, to the end, that with these at the first Charge they might try the Courage of the Greeks. Agathocles on the other side, viewing how the Barbarians had drawn up their Army, committed the Right Wing to Archagathus his Son, delivering to him Two thousand and five hundred Foot. Then he drew up about Three thousand and five hundred Syracusians: Next to them Three thousand Mercenaries out of Greece; and Lastly, Three thousand Samnites Tyrrhenians and Celts. He himself with the Troops of the Houshold, and a Thou∣sand heavy Arm'd Men commanded in the Left Wing, opposite to the Carthaginians Sa∣cred Brigade. The Archers and Slingers, to the number of Five hundred he mix'd here and there in the two Wings. The Truth was, his Soldiers were scarce all Arm'd; And therefore when he saw some of those that were naked and without Arms; he took the Covers and Cases of the Shields and stretcht them out upon Sticks in the round shape of a Shield, and so deliver'd 'em to them; however in truth useless, yet so contriv'd by him, to the end that those that were at a distance (and knew nothing of the Stratagem) should look upon them to be Arm'd Men.

Perceiving likewise, that the Spirits of his Soldiers were very low, and much discou∣rag'd, by reason of the great numbers of their Enemies, especially of their Horse, he * 1.25 let out several Owls (which he had before prepar'd for the purpose) into divers parts of the Camp here and there, to rid them of their fears; which Birds flying up and down * 1.26 through the Army, and lighting ever and anon upon their Shields and Bucklers, chear'd

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up the spirits of the Soldiers, all taking it for a very happy Omen because that creature is sacred to Minerva: These sorts of tricks and devices altho' they may seem to some to be foolish and vain, yet they have many times been the causes of extraordinary success. As it fell out likewise at this time; for the soldiers by this means growing more bold and couragious, and it being generally nois'd abroad that the Goddess plainly soretold that they should be victorious, they more resolutely underwent all dangers and difficulties: For when the Chariots charg'd fiercely upon them, some they pierc'd through with their Darts and Arrows, others they avoided and suffer'd to pass by, and most of them they drave back into the midst of their own Foot. In the same manner they receiv'd the Charge of their Horse, wounding many and putting them all at last to flight.

When they had thus gallantly behav'd themselves in the first Charge, the Barbarians began to fall upon them with their whole Body of Foot at once; upon which there was a very sharp Engagment, wherein Hanno with that Body of Men call'd the Sacred Brigade (striving to win the day by his own Valour) makes a fierce Charge upon the Grecians, and hews down many of them: And tho' he was even overwhelm'd with showers of Darts and Arrows, yet he fell not; but receiving one Wound after another, on he still goes, till being overprest and altogether tir'd out, down he fell and gave up his last Breath. On the other hand Agathocles his Soldiers were so lifed up with expecta∣tions * 1.27 of Victory that they were still more and more couragious; which when the other General Bomilcar came to understand, conceiving that the Gods had put an opportunity into his hand to gain the Tyranny, he reason'd with himself, That if the Army of Aga∣thocles were destroy'd, he could not mount the Throne because the City would be too strong for him; but if Agathocles were Conqueror, and by that means broke the Spirits of the Carthaginians, then (when they were brought low) he should be able to lead them which way he would; and as for Agathocles he concluded he should be able to subdue him * 1.28 when ever he pleas'd. Revolving these things in his mind, he began to face about and Retreat, willing the Enemy should take notice of what they were about to do; then telling his Soldiers that Hanno was slain, order'd them to keep their ranks and get to a rising ground there near at hand; for that was now the last course for them to take. But the Retreat looking like a down-right flight, the Enemy prest so close upon them, that the Africans who were in the Rear, supposing that those in the Front of the Battle were Routed, took to their Heels likewise.

In the mean time those in the Sacred Brigade fought bravely for a while after the death of Hanno, and resolutely prest forward upon the Enemy over the Carkases of their fellow-soldiers; but when they perceiv'd that most of their Army was fled, * 1.29 and that the Enemy was surrounding them at their backs, they were forc'd likewise to give way and be gone.

The whole Carthaginian Army being thus put to flight, the Barbarians made toward, Carthage; whom Agathocles pursu'd but a little way, and then return'd, and took the Pillage of the field; In this Battle were slain Two hundred Grecians, and not above a Thousand Carthaginians, though some have written above Six Thousand: Amongst other rich spoiles there were found many Chariots in the Carthaginians Camp, in which were carri'd above Twenty thousand pair of Fetters and Manacles. For concluding that they would easily overcome the Greeks, they agreed together to take as many Prisoners as they could, and threw them into the Dungeons setter'd hand and foot; but God (I conceive) purposely sets himself by meer contrary Events to cross the expectations of such, who proudly before hand resolve what shall absolutely be done.

Agathocles having now Routed the Carthaginians both beyond their, and even his own expectation, blockt them up within their Walls; and thus we see Fortune whose common Course it is to make Chequer-work of good and bad success, of Routs and Victories in their several turns, now humbled the Conquerors as well as those that were before con∣quered. For the Carthaginians after they had beaten Agathocles in Sicily in a great Battle, besieg'd Syracuse; and now Agathocles having Routed them in Africa, Besieges Carthage: And that which was most to be admir'd was that this Prince was beaten by the * 1.30 Barbarians in the Island when all his Forces were with him whole and intire: but now is Victorious in the Continent over the Conquerors with a piece of a broken and shatter'd Army. The Carthaginians therefore concluding that this miserable misfortune was brought upon them by the Gods, they all betook themselves to Prayers and Sup∣plications to the * 1.31 Deity; especially thinking that Hercules, the Tutelar god of their Country, was angry at them, they sent a vast sum of Mony, and many other rich Gifts to Tyre. For in as much as they were a Colony which came out from them, they us'd in former Ages to send the Tenth part of all their Revenues as an Offering to that God:

But after that they grew wealthy, and their Revenues very great, they began to flack in in their Devotion, and sent thither but a small pittance to their God. Being therefore brought to repentance by this remarkable Slaughter, they remembred all the Gods in Tyre; they sent likewise out of their Temples to the Images of Golden Shrines in order to Suppli∣cations, supposing they should prevail the more in averting the Anger of the God by sending sacred gifts to pacifie him. They gave just cause likewise to their God Saturn to be their E∣nemy, for that in former times they us'd to sacrifice to this god the sons of the most eminent persons, but of later times they secretly bought and bred up Children for that purpose. And upon strict search made, there were found amongst them that were to be sacrific'd some Chil∣dren that were chang'd and put in the place and room of others. Weighing these things in their Minds, and now seeing that the Enemy lay before their Walls, they were seiz'd with such a pang of Superstition, as if they had utterly forsaken the Religion of their * 1.32 Fathers. That they might therefore without delay reform what what was amiss, they offer'd as a publick sacrifice Two hundred of the Sons of the Nobility; and no fewer than Three hundred more (that were liable to censure) voluntarily offered up them∣selves; * 1.33 for among the Carthaginians there was a Brazen Statue of Saturn putting forth the Palms of his Hands so bending towards the Earth, as that the Boy that was laid upon them in order to be sacrific'd, should slip off and so fall down headlong into a deep fiery Furnace. Hence it's probable that Euripides took what he fabulously relates concerning the sacrifice in Taurus, where he introduces Iphigenia asking Orestes this Question—

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But what Sepulchre will me dead receive, Shall th' Gulf of Sacred Fire then me have?

The ancient Fable likewise that is common among the Grecians, that Saturn devour'd his own Children, seems to be confirm'd by this Law among the Carthaginians.

But after this change of affairs in Africa the Carthaginians sent to Amilcar into Sicily * 1.34 to hasten over to their assistance with all speed, and order'd that all the Beaks of Aga∣thocles his Ships should be carri'd to him. When the Messengers arriv'd, he commanded them not to say any thing of the Routing of their Forces, but to noise it abroad among the Soldiers, that Agathocles his Fleet and Land Army were both utterly destroy'd. And he himself sent away some (that were newly come from Carthage) to Syracuse, together * 1.35 with the Iron Beaks, to demand the delivery up of the City, and to tell them that all their Forces were cut off by the Carthaginians, and their whole Navy burnt; and that if they would not believe them, the Beaks of their Vessels (there shew'd) were a sufficient evidence of the truth of what they related. when they that were in the City heard of this overthrow of Agathocles, many believ'd it: But the leading men of the City, minding to keep private a matter that was yet uncertain, and to prevent Tumults, forthwith dis∣mist the Messengers, and sent them away. They cast out of the City likewise the Kindred and friends of the Exiles, and Eight thousand at least of others that seem'd to be uneasie under the Government; whereupon when so great a Number on a suddain were forc'd to leave the place of their Birth, the City was full of Confusion, Lamentation and crying of Women running up and down in the Streets; neither was there any House at this time that had not its share of weeping and mourning. For they who favour'd the Tyrant bewail'd the Ruin of Agathocles, and the loss of their Sons; others wept for those of their friends who they suppos'd were all cut off in Africa; others griev'd and mourn'd for them that were compell'd to forsake their Houses, and the Gods of their Fore-fathers; and who were neither suffer'd to stay, nor could get well out of the City by reason of the Siege. And besides these most grievous and bitter sufferings (which they labour'd under) they were forc't to fly with their Wives, and drag along with them their little young Children; But Amilcar courteously receiv'd and secur'd the Exiles, and march'd to Syracuse with his Army, as if he should forthwith possess himself of the City, * 1.36 upon the account of the place being destitute of Inhabitants, and the misery those were in (as he heard) who were left behind: However he sent Messengers before, and promis'd pardon to Antandrus, and all those that sided with him if he would deliver up the City into his hands. Upon which there was a Council of War call'd of those Captains that were in the greatest Authority; where after many bandings and debates pro and con, Antander (who was naturally a poor spirited Man, and of a weak head, and much below the courage and resolution of his Brother) was for delivering up of the Town: But Eurymnon the Etolian (whom Agathocles had left to assist his Brother in

Advice and Counsel) was of another Opinion, and prevail'd with them all to hold out till they had certain Intelligence of the Truth. Whereupon, Amilcar coming to under∣stand the resolution of the Townsmen, prepar'd all his Engines with a full Resolution to batter down the Walls

Agathocles, after the late Battel, built two Ships of Thirty Oares a piece; and in one of them put on board the best of his Rowers, with Nearchus, one of the most faithful Friends he then had with him, and sent them away to Syracuse, to give an account of his * 1.37 Victory. Having therefore the Wind fair, the Fifth day (in the Night) they arriv'd in the Harbour of Syracuse, and at break of Day, Crown'd with Garlands and singing the * 1.38 Pean all along as they sail'd, they made for the City; which being perceived by the Car∣thaginian Guard-Ships, they pursu'd them with all their might, and the other being not far before them, there was great striving among the Rowers on both sides. While the Sea-men were thus contending, both Besiegers and Besieg'd understanding the Matter, ran down to the Port, and each fearful of the event, call'd out and encourag'd every one their own Men. And now the Ship was upon the point of falling into the hands of the Pur∣suers, upon which the Barbarians gave a shout: but the Citizens not being able otherwise to assist, pray'd to their Gods for the Preservation of their Men on board. The Pursuers being now ready to board her not far from Land, she got within a Darts cast of the Shore, and by the help of the Syracusians, who came in to her relief, narrowly escap'd the Danger. Amilcar perceiving that the Citizens, (upon the account of the late Contest, and the sud∣den arrival of the Intelligence expected) were all flock'd down to the Port; and there∣upon conceiving part of the Walls were left Naked, order'd the stoutest of his Soldiers to rear up Scaling-Ladders; who finding there no Guards, mounted the Walls without be∣ing discern'd; and had almost possess'd themselves of an entire Part lying between two Towers, when they that us'd to go the Round, came just then to the Place, and so dis∣cover'd them. Upon which, they fell to it, and the Citizens came flocking in, before a∣ny Relief could be brought to the Assailants, so that some were kill'd outright, and others were thrown down Headlong over the Walls. At which Amilcar was so mortify'd, that he drew off his Forces from the City, and sent away Five thousand Men to the Relief of Carthage.

While these things were in action in Sicily, Agathocles being now Master of the Field, * 1.39 took some Forts and Castles near to Carthage by Storm; and other Cities, some out Fear, and some through hatred of the Carthaginians, voluntarily surrender'd themselves. Having fortify'd his Camp near Tunis, he left there a sufficient Guard, and mov'd towards the Towns lying upon the Sea-Coasts: And first he took by Storm the New City, but dealt very favourably with the Inhabitants: Thence he march'd to Adrymetes, and besieg'd it, and Confederated with Elymas King of Lybia. News whereof being brought to the Carthagi∣nians, they bent all their Arms against Tunis; and possessed themselves of Agathocles his Camp; and with their Battering Rams press'd upon the City with continual Assaults. Agathocles receiving Intelligence of the slaughter of his Men, leaving the greatest part of his Army to carry on the Siege, and taking with him his Life-guard, and a small Body of Men, secretly march'd up to the Top of a Mountain, whence he might view both the Country of the Adrymetines, and likewise the Carthaginians that besieg'd Tunis. In the Night he commanded his Soldiers to kindle Fires, and with them to take up a large Tract of Ground, to the end the Carthaginians might think he was making towards them with a strong Army, and that the Besieg'd might conclude, that fresh Forces in vast numbers were come up to him for his Assistance; both being deceiv'd by this Stratagem were suddenly caught in the Snare; for they who besieg'd Tunis, fled, and left their Engines behind them; and the Adrymetines surpriz'd with Fear surrender'd the City, which was gain'd, upon cer∣tain * 1.40 Terms agreed upon, but Thapsus he afterwards took by Storm: And several other Cities he took in this Tract, some by Force, and others upon Conditions. Having at length gain'd in the whole above Two hundred Towns and Cities, he resolv'd upon an Expedition * 1.41 into the Higher Libya: To that end he rais'd his Camp, and march'd on many days Journey.

Then the Carthaginians march'd out with those Forces (besides others) which were sent out of Sicily, and besieg'd Tunis a second time, and recover'd a great part of the Country that was then in the Hands of the Enemy. When Couriers came from Tunis, and gave an account what the Carthaginians had done, Agathocles forthwith return'd: Being come within Two hundred Furlongs of the Enemy, he Encamp'd, and commanded his Soldiers not to kindle any Fires: Then making a sudden March in the Night, about spring of Day he fell upon those as were Wasting and Harrassing the Country, and disorderly roving up and down, and kill'd above Two thousand of them, and took many Prisoners, which was a great Step to his many Successes afterwards: For the Carthaginians being reinforc'd by their

Aids from Sicily, and strengthned by their Confederates in Africa, thought they had been too strong for Agathocles: But after this Misfortune, the Hearts of the Barbarians were quite down; for he had overcome Elymas the King of Libya, (who had deserted him) and kill'd likewise the General, with a great number of the Barbarians. And thus stood Affairs in * 1.42 Sicily and Africa at this time.

In Macedonia, Cassander came in to the Assistance of Autoleontes King of the † 1.43 Peonians, * 1.44 who was then in War with the Autariats, and rescu'd him out of the Streights and Dan∣gers he was in at that time, and transplanted the Autariats together with their Wives and Children, that were then with them, to the Number of Twenty thousand, and plac'd them near the Mountain ** 1.45 Orbitaus.

While he was thus employ'd, Ptolemy, Antigonus his General in Peloponnesus, who was * 1.46 intrusted by him with an Army in these Parts, (took a Pique against Antigonus, thinking he was not rewarded according to what he might justly expect) revolted and join'd with Cassander. He had left one Phaenix, (one of his Confederates) President of the Province adjoining to the Hellespont, and sent over some Soldiers to him, wishing him to take care of the Castles and Cities there, and for the future not regard any Orders that came from Antigonus.

It was generally agreed by Alexander's Captains, (as part of their Articles among them∣selves) that the Greek Cities should be all restor'd to their ancient Liberties. Therefore Ptolemy, King of Egypt, (charging Antigonus that he had put Garisons into several Greek Towns and Cities) prepar'd to make War upon him: And sent Leonides, a Captain of his own, into Cilicia Aspera, and there possess'd himself of certain Cities and Places belonging to Antigonus; and moreover, sent his Agent to some Cities appertaining to Cassander and Lysimachus, that they would follow his Advice, and not suffer Antigonus to grow too fast in Power.

And as for Antigonus, he sent his younger Son Philip to make War upon Phaenix, and * 1.47 others, who had revolted from him in Hellespont; but his Son Demetrius he sent into Cili∣cia, who putting in Execution what he had in Command, routed the Captains of Ptolemy that were there, and recover'd the Cities.

While these things were doing, Polysperchon, (then residing in Peloponnesus) still affect∣ing * 1.48 the Government of Macedon, cry'd out against Cassander, and sent for Hercules, a Son of * 1.49 Alexander, (begotten upon Barfine) out of Pergamus, (now of the Age of Seventeen years) and sent up and down to those who were his own Friends, and Enemies to Cas∣sander, to help to set this young Man unto his Father's Kingdom. He sollicited likewise by his Letters the Aetolians, to assist him in his present Design; promising, that they should find more Grace and Favour at his hands than at any time before, if they would help him to restore the young Lad to his Father's Throne.

All things going on according to his Heart's desire, (and the Aetolians complying with his request) many others came flocking in to restore the New King, so that there were got together above Twenty thousand Foot, and no less than a Thousand Horse. And * 1.50 thus setting himself with all his might to the Work, he rais'd what Money he could, and sent some to sollicit his Friends in Macedonia to assist him.

In the mean time, Ptolemy of Aegypt having all Cyprus under his Command, and find∣ing * 1.51 that Nicocles, the King of Paphos, held Correspondence under-hand with Antigonus, sent two Confidents of his own, Argaus and Callicrates, with Instructions to make away Nicocles; for he was much afraid lest some others also should fall off, as he had perceiv'd many others had done before. Wherefore, passing into Cyprus, and taking with them a certain Number of Soldiers from Menelaus, who commanded the Army there, they beset the House of Nicocles; and then telling him what the King's Pleasure was, advis'd him to dispose of himself for another World. He at first went to clear himself of what was laid to his Charge, but when he saw that no Man hearkned to what he said, drew his Sword and slew himself. Axiothea his Wife, hearing of her Husband's Death, took her Daugh∣ters, who were all Young and Virgins, and cut their Throats, that they might not fall into any of the Enemy's hands, and was earnest with the Wives of Nicocles his Brothers to accompany her in her own Death; whereas Ptolemy had given no order concerning a∣ny of them, save only to preserve them. The King's Palace therefore thus fill'd with the sudden and unexpected Slaughters and dreadful Spectacles, so affected the Brothers of Ni∣cocles, that they shut every Man his own Door upon him, and set fire on their Houses, and slew themselves, so the whole Race of the Kings of Paphos came to a Tragick and Lamentable End. Having given an Account of those Affairs we before promis'd, we shall now proceed to those that follow next in order.

About this time in * 1.52 Pontus, after the Death of Parysadas, King of the Cimmerian Bospho∣rus, his Sons Eumelus, Satyrus, and Prytanis, contended one with another for the Kingdom: Satyrus, the Eldest was appointed Successor by his Father, who reign'd Eight and Thirty Years.

Eumelus compacting with some of the Natives adjoining, rais'd an Army, and laid claim to the Kingdom against his Elder Brother; of which Satyrus being inform'd, went against him with a great Army, and passing the River Thapsus, when he came near his Camp with his Carts and Wagons, wherein he had brought an infinite quantity of Pro∣vision; * 1.53 and ranging afterwards his Army in the Field, (after the manner of the Scythian Kings) he led the main Battel himself. He had not in his Army above * 1.54 Two thousand Greeks, and as many Thracians; all the rest were Scythians, which came to assist him, to the number of Twenty thousand, and no less than Ten thousand Horse. Eumelus was assisted by Ariophames, King of Thrace, with Twenty thousand Horse, and Two and twenty thousand Foot. Between these Forces a bloody Battel was fought, wherein Satyrus (who had with him a choice Party of brave Horse) encountred first with Ariopharnes in a Skirmish of Horse; who likewise commanded the middle Battel opposite to Satyrus; ma∣ny fell on both sides; at length he forc'd his way through, and put the Barbarian King to flight, and being the first in the pursuit put every Man to the Sword that was in his way. But when he heard, that his Brother Eumelus in the right Wing, had routed the Merce∣naries, he left off the Pursuit, and made up to the Succor of those that fled, and regain'd the day, and utterly broke and routed the whole Army, putting them all to flight; so that he gave a clear Testimony that he justly deserv'd to Wear the Crown, as well upon the Account of his Valour, as upon the Privilege of his Birth.

Ariopharnes and Eumelus thus beaten, fled into the * 1.55 King's Palace, which was inviron'd with the River Thasis, of an exceeding depth, so that the Place was of difficult approach; it was surrounded likewise with steep Rocks and thick Woods, into which there were only two Entrances made by Art: One leading straight to the Palace, defended with high Towers and Bulwarks; the other on the other side, was made in the Fens, guarded with Forts and Towers of Timber, rais'd upon Pillars over the Water. The Place being very strong, Satyrus first wasted the Enemy's Country, and burnt their Towns, whence he carry'd a vast Number of Prisoners, and abundance of Spoil. Afterwards he attempted to force his way through the Passes, but losing many of his Men at the Bulwarks and Towers, he was forc'd to Retreat. But making an Attack upon that side towards the Fenns, he took the Timber-Forts which he demolish'd, and then pass'd the River. Upon which he began to fell a Wood, through which he must needs pass to the Palace; and while these attempts were carrying on in great Earnestness, King Ariopharnes fearing lest the Castle should be taken by Storm, valiantly fell upon them, perceiving there were no hopes of safety remaining but in an absolute Victory. He plac'd likewise Archers on both sides the Passage, by whom he sore gall'd the Fellers of the Wood, because they could neither see the Arrows before they pierc'd them, nor come at the Archers, nor return the like upon them, by reason of the thick and close standing of the Trees. However, Satyrus his Sol∣diers continu'd falling the Wood, and opening a Way to the Palace, for three Days to∣gether, though with great Toil and Hazard; the Fourth day they came under the Wall. But being worsted through showers of Arrows and straightness of the Places, they su∣stain'd very great loss: For Meniscus (who led the Mercenary Companies) having got * 1.56 in at a Passage (though he Fought very manfully) was nevertheless (being over-laid with the Multitude within) forc'd to retreat: Whom Satyrus seeing in such imminent Danger, came up to him with seasonable Relief, and bearing up against the Enemy's Charge, was run through the Arm with a Spear, which was so sore, that it forc'd him to retire to his Camp, and the next Night died of the Wound, having reign'd scarce nine Months af∣ter the Death of Parasydas his Father. Hereupon, Meniscus, Captain of the Mercena∣ries, breaking up the Siege drew off the Army to a City call'd Gargaza, and from thence carry'd the King's Body down the River, to a City call'd Pantacapeum, to his Brother Prytanis, who having magnificently bury'd it, and laid up the Reliques in the King's Se∣pulchre, went presently to Gargaza, and there took into his hands the Army, together with the Kingdom

Hereupon, came the Agents of Eumelus to him to treat concerning the parting of the Kingdom between them two, which he would not hearken to: Leaving therefore a strong Garison at Gargara, he return'd to Pantacapeum, there to settle the Affairs of his Kingdom. But a while after, Eumelus, by the help of some Babarians, possess'd himself of Gargara, and sundry other Towns and Castles. Whereupon, Prytanis march'd with an Army against him, but was overthrown in a Battel by his Brother; and being shut up

within a Neck of Land, near the Lough of Meotis, was forc'd to render himself upon * 1.57 Conditions, which were to give up all his Army and depart the Kingdom.

Nevertheless, when Prytanis return'd to Pantacapeum, which is the Place where the Kings of Bosphorus keep the standing Court, he there endeavour'd again to recover his Kingdom; but being foil'd there again, he fled to a Place call'd the Gardens, and was there slain.

Eumelus, after the Death of his Brother, to confirm himself in the Kingdom, put to Death all the Friends, Wives and Children of both his Brothers, Satyrus and Prytanis; only Parisades, Satyrus his Son, being but a very Youth, escap'd his Hands; for by the * 1.58 benefit of a swift Horse he got away out of the City to Agarus King of the Scythians. But when Eumelus saw that the People repin'd at the loss of their Friends whom he had mur∣der'd, he call'd them all together, and there excus'd himself, and restor'd to them their ancient form of Government, and to the Citizens of Pantacapeum their former Immuni∣ties, and promis'd to discharge them of all kind of Tributes, sparing for no fair words which might reconcile the Hearts of the People to him; by which means, having regain'd their good Opinions, he held a just and moderate Hand over them, and grew afterwards into no small admiration for all kind of Virtue among them. For he omitted not to oblige the Byzantians and Sinopians, and the rest of the Grecian Inhabitants of Pontus by all the de∣monstrations of Kindness imaginable. For when the Collantians were besieg'd by Lysima∣chus, and were brought to great distress through want of Provision, he entertain'd a Thou∣sand of them who left the Place for want of Bread, and not only granted them a safe Protection, but allotted them Habitations within the City. And divided likewise a Place * 1.59 call'd Psoa, with the Territory thereunto belonging, among them by Lot. And for the Benefit of the Merchants that Traded to Pontus, he made War upon the Barbarous pira∣tical Heniochians, and them of Taurus, with the Acheans, and scowr'd and cleans'd the Seas of them. So that his Name was advanc'd to the Skies, (as the Fruit of his Generosity) not only in his own Kingdom, but almost all the World over, while the Merchants every where publish'd the Greatness and Braveness of his Spirit. Moreover, he much enlarg'd his Dominion, by the addition of a considerable Part of the Barbarians Country bordering upon him, and advanc'd the Fame and Reputation of his Kingdom, above whatever it was before.

In conclusion, he had a Design to have brought under all the neighbouring Nations, and had certainly effected in short time what he had so design'd, if he had not been pre∣vented by Death: For after he had reign'd five Years and as many Months, he ended his days by a sudden and unusual Accident: For returning home out of Scythia, with a great desire to be present at a certain Sacrifice, and making towards his Palace in a * 1.60 Chariot with four Horses, cover'd over with a Canopy; the Horses took a Fright at the Canopy, and violently ran away with him, the Coachman not being able to stop them in their Carreer: Upon which, Eumelus fearing lest he should be born away headlong down some steep Rock, threw himself out, but his Sword entangling in one of the Wheels, he was hurry'd away with the violent Motion of the Chariot, and kill'd forthwith.

It's reported there were some Predictions concerning the Death of Eumelus and his * 1.61 Brother Satyrus, though something Foolish and Vain, yet credited by the Inhabitants. For they say, that the Oracle warn'd Satyrus to be aware of one Musculus, lest he should kill him, and that for that reason he would not suffer any of that name, whether Bond or Free, to abide within his Dominions; and that upon that account he was afraid both of House and Field-* 1.62 Mice, and continually charg'd the Children to kill 'em, and stop up their Holes. At length, when he had done all that possibly he could to avoid his Fate, he was at last kill'd by a Wound in the Muscle of his Arm. And as for Eumelus, that he was charg'd by the Oracle to take heed of a Moving House; and therefore that he durst not go into his House before his Servants had made a diligent Search to see that both the Roof and Foundation were sound. But after that they came to understand that the Canopy plac'd upon the Chariot was the Occasion of his Death, every one concluded that the Prophecy was fulfill'd. But this shall suffice, concerning the Affairs of the Bosphorus.

In Italy the Roman Consuls enter'd the Country of the * 1.63 Samnites with an Army, and * 1.64 routed them in a Battel at Talius. But the routed Party afterwards possessing themselves of an Hill, and the Night drawing on, the Romans retreated to their Camp; but the next day the Fight was renew'd, and great numbers of the Samnites were slain, and above Two thousand and Two hundred were taken Prisoners. The Romans being thus successful, now quietly enjoy'd whatever they had in the open Field, and brought under all the revolting Cities, and plac'd Garisons in Cataracta and Ceraunia, Places they had taken by Assault, and others they reduc'd upon Terms and Conditions.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Olymp. 117. 1. Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.2

  Agathocles intends to in∣vade Africa.
• * 1.3

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.4

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.5

  His Cruelty.
• * 1.6

  P. 735.
• * 1.7

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.8

  This was on the 15 of Au∣gust. Ush. Ann. P. 323. Justin. lib 22. c. 6. Eclipse of the Sun.
• * 1.9

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.10

  Lands in A∣frica.
• * 1.11

  P. 736.
• * 1.12

  Anti-Christ. 308.
• * 1.13

  Burns his Ships.
• * 1.14

  Ant. Ch. 308
• * 1.15

  Samatho in the Punick Language White. His Successes in Africa.
• * 1.16

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.17

  P. 737.
• * 1.18

  〈◊〉〈◊〉∣〈◊〉〈◊〉, White Tunis.
• * 1.19

  About 250 Miles.
• * 1.20

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.21

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.22

  Hanno and Bomilcar made Generals.
• * 1.23

  P. 738
• * 1.24

  Ant. Ch. 308. Battle between the Carthagi∣nians and Agathocles.
• * 1.25

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.26

  His Stratagem of Owls.
• * 1.27

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.28

  P. 739.
• * 1.29

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.30

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.31

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 All sorts of Prayers.
• * 1.32

  Ant. Ch. 308. P. 740.
• * 1.33

  Cruel Super∣stition.
• * 1.34

  The actions at Syracuse.
• * 1.35

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.36

  Ant. Ch. 380.
• * 1.37

  P. 741.
• * 1.38

  Pean, a Song of Praise to Apollo for the Victory.
• * 1.39

  Ant. Ch. 308. Acts of Aga∣thocles in A∣frica.
• * 1.40

  Ant. Ch. 308
• * 1.41

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.42

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• † 1.43

  Peonia is a part of Mace∣donia.
• * 1.44

  Acts of Cassan∣der in Mace∣donia.
• ** 1.45

  Orbelus, a Mountain in Macedon••s
• * 1.46

  Autariats, a People of Dal∣matia.
• * 1.47

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.48

  Polysperchon seeks to restore Hercules.
• * 1.49

  The Great.
• * 1.50

  P. 743.
• * 1.51

  The miserable Destruction of Nicocles and his Family, in Cyprus. Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.52

  In the Cim∣merian Bos∣phorus near Pontus Euxi∣nus, or in Tau∣rica Chersone∣sus.
• * 1.53

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.54

  A Thousand in the Margent.
• * 1.55

  Ariopharnes his Palace. P. 744. Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.56

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.57

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.58

  P. 745.
• * 1.59

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.60

  Running upon Four Wheels. The sad Death of Eumelus.
• * 1.61

  Ant. Ch. 308.
• * 1.62

  Musculus is little Mouse, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Mice.
• * 1.63

  In the Greek Italy is for Samnium, and Italium for Talium.
• * 1.64

  P. 746.