The Roman history from the building of the city to the perfect settlement of the empire by Augustus Caesar containing the space of 727 years : design'd as well for the understanding of the Roman authors as the Roman affairs / by Laurence Echard ...

BOOK I.

The Regal State of ROME, From the Building of the City, to the Overthrow of that Kind of Government.

Containing the Space of 245 Years.

The INTRODUCTION.

Of the Original of Rome, and its Inhabitants.

I. IN relating such great and remarkable Affairs as those of the Romans, it will be necessary to give some Account of the Original of that People: And, to make the Account as clear and intelligible as I can, it may not be amiss first to observe, that that Country which was anci∣ently call'd Italy, of which Rome was afterwards the chief City, did not contain above one half of what now goes by that Name. But as small as it was, it contain'd many distinct Nations and People; the principal of which were the Aborigines, Sabines, He∣trurians,

or Tuscans, Umbri, Samnites, Campani, Apulii, Calabri, Lucanii, and Brutii; and others of inferior Note which were often dependant on these. As for the rest of what is now call'd Italy, that was principally possess'd by the Gauls, who had driven out the Hetruri∣ans, and settl'd themselves in these Parts; being di∣stinguish'd into several Names, as the Senones, the In∣subres, &c. This Part went by the Name of Gallia Cis-Alpina and Togata, to distinguish it from that Gaul which is now call'd France, and was almost the same with the present Lombardy: The chief Inhabitants of it, besides the several Nations of the Gauls, were the Ligures and the Veneti.

Of all the foremention'd People, the Aborigines, af∣terwards call'd by the Name of Latines, were of prin∣cipal Note; not upon the account of any particular Excellency, but as being better known, and much more enquir'd after by all Historians. These were of the Posterity of the Oenotrians, a Grecian People of Arcadia, who had driven out the Siculi, the first Inha∣bitants of these Parts of Italy. They possess'd the Country of Latium,* 1.1 a small Country along the Ri∣ver Tiber, about 30 Miles in length, and 16 in breadth, containing near a fourth Part of that little Province in the Pope's Dominions now call'd Campagna-di-Roma. We find these govern'd by their own Kings nigh 200 Years before the destruction of Troy, and above 1300 before Christ; the first Kings we hear of in Italy, or in all Europe, except Greece. These Kings kept their Courts at Laurentum, a City about 5 Miles off the Mouth of the River Tiber; and were Go∣vernors of a mixt People: For first, some Pelasgians out of Thessaly settled among 'em; soon after, Saturn from Creet, who fled from his Son Iupiter, which oc∣casion'd their changing of their Names to Latines,* 1.2 à latendo, from his lying hid there; next Evander from Arcadia, then Hercules from Greece, with their several Followers.

But the last who settled in this Country, accord∣ing to Dionysius, were some Relicts of the Trojans, under the Conduct of their Prince Aeneas, who had left his native Country, and his inrag'd Enemies, to seek out Foreign Habitations. These were about 1200 in all, tho' some will allow but half that Num∣ber; and arriv'd in these Parts three Years after the destruction of Troy, and above 400 before the building of Rome, A. M. 2824. Aeneas at his first landing, was very civilly entertain'd by Latinus, the King then reigning, as a Person of great Renown, who not on∣ly treated him honourably, but gave him his only Daughter Lavinia in Marriage. This occasion'd a War between him and Turnus, a Prince of the Rutuli, their near Neighbours, who had formerly made Pre∣tensions to her; but these Wars soon ended in Tur∣nus's death, which did not only free Aeneas from a Rival, but secur'd his Kingdom, which Latinus gave him for his Daughters Portion after his decease. A••∣neas thus settled, soon after built the City of Lavini∣um, in honour of his Wife, about five or six Miles East of Laurentum, where he kept his Court; and the more to oblige his Subjects, caus'd both them and his own Country-men to be call'd by the common Name of Latini: But ingaging in a bloody War with Mezentius, a King of the Hetrurians, he was slain, after a short Reign of four Years. His Subjects, in honour to his Memory, dedicated a Chappel to him, under the Title of Iupiter Indiges.* 1.3

Upon the death of Aeneas, his Son Ascanius succeeded him in the Throne; but Lavinia, being left with Child by him, out of fear fled to the Woods, and was there deliver'd of a Son, who from the place of his Birth had the Name of Silvius. Thirty Years af∣ter the building of Lavinium, Ascanius left it to his Mother-in-Law, and founded Alba-Longa, about 12 Miles North of it, which he made his Seat. Ascani∣us had a Son call'd Iulus, from whom came the fa∣mous

Family of the Iulii;* 1.4 this Son after his Mo∣ther's Death, contended with Silvius for the King∣dom, but the People, judging that to belong to Lati∣nus's Race, gave the Kingdom to Silvius, and the Priesthood to Iulus, in whose Family it thenceforth continu'd. After Silvius, succeeded 13 Kings of the same Race, for nigh 400 Years, who all had their Seats at Alba, and many of them likewise had the Name of Silvius: These Kings were as following; Aeneas Silvius, who reign'd 31 Years, Latinus, who reign'd 51, Alba 39, Capetus I. 26, Capys 28, Cape∣tus II. 13, Tiberinus 8, Agrippa 24, Alladius 19, Aven∣tinus 37, Procas 23, Amulius 42, and Numitor, who was the last King of Alba. Except the two last, we have but little remarkable concerning these Kings, only Tiberinus gave Name to the River Tiber,* 1.5 by be∣ing drown'd in it, it being before call'd Albula; and Aventinus gave Name to Mount Aventine,* 1.6 one of the seven Hills of Rome.

These were call'd the Kings of Alba, or of Old La∣tium, which scarce contain'd the sixth part of what was call'd Latium in Augustus's Reign;* 1.7 which then comprehended not only the Old Latini, but also the Rutuli, Aequi, Hernici, Volsci, and Arunci. This Kingdom, tho' very Small, according to the Dimen∣sions before given of it, was very Fruitful, Populous, and full of Towns; and Alba it self was a great and flourishing City, and had been the Mother of thir∣ty Latine Towns, when it was destroy'd by Tullus Ho∣stilius the third King of Rome.

II. But to come close to the Roman Story, Amu∣lius and Numitor,* 1.8 the two last of these Kings, were Brothers; and it was agreed between 'em, that Nu∣mit••r the Eldest, should have the Kingdom, and Amulius the Treasure and Gold that was brought from Troy. But Money having the Advantage of meer Authority, Amulius soon got his Brother out of

his Kingdom; and, to secure it to himself against the Pretensions of his Posterity, caus'd his Son Lausus to be Murther'd in a pretended Hunting, and his Daugh∣ter Rhea to be made a Vestal Virgin. In the fourth Year of her Priesthood, going to fetch Water, she was met and ravish'd by some Lover, or probably by Amulius himself, rather, as was suppos••d, to serve his other Designs, than to gratifie his Lust. But for the Honour of the Cause, the Fact was laid upon Mars, in whose Grove it was committed, who came to her, as they will have it, in a most dreadful man∣ner with Thunder and Lightning. Rhea proving with Child, was deliver'd of two Boys, and thereupon was condemn'd to Death, or perpetual Imprison∣ment, and her Children were thrown into the River. But the Wind and Stream were both so favourable, that at the fall of the Water, they were left safe upon dry Ground, and there happily found by Faustulus, Amulius••s Herds-Man, and suckled by his Wife Lau∣rentia, who, for her Infamous Life, was call'd Lupa; and this probably might occasion the famous Story of their being nourished by a Wolf: The Names of these Twins were Romulus and Remus.

The Children, grown up, prov'd Active and Cou∣ragious, suitable to the Greatness of their Birth; but the Meanness of their Education gave 'em occasion of falling out with some of Numitor's Herds-Men; in which contest Remus was taken Prisoner, and brought before the King. Upon which Faustulus discover'd to Romulus all the Particulars of his Birth and hard Usage from Amulius; begging him to be assistant in the Rescue of Remus. Romulus soon drew together a great Number of Herds-Men and inferiour People, who hated Amulius, whom he divided into Compa∣nies, consisting of an hundred Men each; every Captain carrying a small Bundle of Grass and Shrubs ty'd to a Pole. The Latines call such Bun∣dles Manipuli; from whence it is, that in their Ar∣mies

they call their Captains Manipulares.* 1.9 Remus gaining upon the Citizens within, and Romulus make∣ing Attacks from without, Amulius not knowing what Expedient to think of for his Security, in that Amazement and Distraction, was taken and slain; the Brothers settling their Grand-Father Numitor in his Throne, after he had been depos'd forty two Years.

The Affairs of Alba succeeding thus prosperously,* 1.10 the Young-Men, ambitious of Glory, were desirous of Founding a City in the Place where they were brought up; which Design was approv'd of by their Grand-Father, who appointed 'em Land, with such of his Subjects as he knew were of his Brother's Fa∣ction; and likewise gave free Liberty to all others who were willing, to settle themselves in this new Colony. Most of the Trojans came in, (of which there remain'd fifty Families in Caesar's Time, as Dionysius informs us) and also all the Inhabitants about the Palatine-Hill, where the City was built, which was about 14 Miles North-West of Alba, upon the River Tiber. For the more speedy carry∣ing on this Work, the People were divided into two Parts, who were to work by way of Emulation: But what was design'd for a considerable Advantage, prov'd a greater Inconveniency; for it gave birth to two Factions, whereof one preferr'd Romulus, and the other Remus; which swell'd 'em with the ambitious Desires of Preeminence. This soon appear'd in their Disagreement about the Place of Building, Romulus contending for the Palatine, where they were brought up, and Remus for the Aventine-Hill. Upon which, the Matter was brought before their Grand-Father Nu∣mitor, who advis••d 'em both to go apart, and ob∣serve the flying of Birds; and the most Fortunate of the two shou'd be counted the Founder of the Co∣lony. They both took their Stations upon their own

Hills, and Remus first had a flight of 6 Vultures, but Romulus having, or pretending to have, double the Number, both were saluted by the Title of King. This widned the Breach, and the Contention grew so hot as to come to a Battel, wherein Remus was worsted and slain, with several others, particularly Faustulus and his Brother Plistinus. But it is likewise said, that before the Battel, Remus gave his Brother many great Provocations, particularly by leaping over his Wall, to ridicule him for the Lowness of it.

Romulus, now sole Commander, and Eighteen Years of Age, began the Foundation of Rome in the fourth Year of the sixth Olympiad, according to Varro's Account, which was in the Year of the World 3252, the sixth Year of Iotham King of Iudah, and the seventh of Pekah King of Israel, 431 Years after the Destruction of Troy, 120 after the Building of Carthage, 214 before the Beginning of the Persian Empire, and 752 before Christ; And having got Au∣gurs, and such sort of People from Hetruria, he set a∣bout it with much Ceremony, on the 21 Day of A∣pril, according to Plutarch, which Day the Romans Anniversarily kept Holy, calling it their Country's Birth-Day. He took in the Mount Palatine only, and with a Heifer and a young Bullock, plow'd up a Fur∣row where the Wall was design'd; which Custom was afterwards observ'd by the Romans, both in the building and razing of Cities; and where-ever a Gate was to be made, the Plow was lifted up, which occasion'd it to be call'd Porta, a portando aratrum: All within this Line was call'd Pomaerium,* 1.11 from Post-Mu∣rum, or Pone Maenia. The City was almost square, containing at first about 1000 Houses, and was nigh a Mile in Compass, with four Gates, namely Roma∣nula, Ianualis, Mucionis, and Carmentalis; and a small Territory belonging to it of 7 or 8 Miles long.

Thus we see Rome in its Original, a small incon∣siderable beggarly Place, with Dominions still of less

Note; which yet from this mean and contemptible Beginning became Mistress of the World; being first founded and supported by its Kings, then strengthened and enlarged by its Consuls, and at last brought to its utmost Perfection by its Emperors. As for the Arts and Contrivances, the Policy and Cun∣ning, the Strength and Valour, and the gradual Pro∣ceedings, with the extraordinary Fortune, which contributed to make the Romans Masters of such vast and powerful Dominions, these are the Subject of this following History.

CHAP. I.

From the Building of the City, to the Death of Romulus, the first King of Rome.

Containing the space of 37 Years.

I. ROmulus having thus Founded the City of Rome,* 1.12 by his Grand-Father's Advice, left the Choice of the Government to the People, who immediately made him King, according to Dionysius; and he re∣ceiving it as a Gift from them, his Power became the more plausible and undisputable. The Number of the Colony consisted of about 3000 Foot, and 300 Horse; and the first Method he made use of to increase this Number was his Building a Temple to the Asylaean God, which he made a Sanctuary to all Malefactors and discontented Persons, who there∣upon came in great Numbers from all the Neigh∣bouring Parts. He divided the People into three Parts,* 1.13 which were call'd Tribes, that is to say Thirds; and each Tribe was divided into ten Curiae, which were much the same as our Parishes, as the Tribes were like our Wards; each Curia having its proper

Temple and Sacrifices, and a Priest call'd Curio over it, and over all an Arch-Priest call'd Curio Maxi∣mus. Each Curia was likewise by Romulus subdivided into ten Decuriae,* 1.14 over which were appointed distinct Officers. According to the number of the Curiae, he divided the Lands into thirty Parts, reserving one Portion for Publick Uses, and another for Religious Ceremonies. In all Matters of Importance, for many Years, the People gave their Votes according to the Curiae, and to what the major Part of the Cu∣riae agreed, was reckon'd the Resolution of the whole Assembly, each single Man having a Vote; and this made that Assembly call'd Comitia Curiata.* 1.15

Romulus made also another Distinction of the Peo∣ple, according to their Honour and Dignity, which was into Patritians and Plebeians:* 1.16 The former, as be∣ing Elder and more nobly descended, were to take care about the Religious Rites, bear Offices of Ma∣gistracy, administer Justice, and be assistant to the King in his Government: The latter to till the Fields, feed Cattel, and follow Trades; but not to have any Share in the Government, to avoid the Inconve∣niencies of a Popular Power. To bind the Principal each to the other, he recommended certain of the Plebeians to the Protection of the Patritians, liberty being given to the Plebeians to chuse their own Pa∣trons.* 1.17 The Duty of these Patrons was to advise their Clients in Points of Law, to manage their Suits, to take care of 'em, absent and present, as their own Children; and by all Ways and Methods to secure their Peace and Happiness. On the other side, the Duty of the Clients was to help their Patrons with Mo∣ney upon many Occasions, to ransom them or their Sons if taken Prisoners, and to bear the Charges of their Magistracy, and other honourable Imploy∣ments. They were never to accuse each other, or take contrary Sides; for if they did, any one might lawfully kill them without Examination. So that this

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Patronage was an Obligation as effectual as any Con∣sanguinity or Alliance; and it was the Glory of the Nobility to have a great Number of Clients, and to treat 'em civilly. This Patronage had admirable Ef∣fects towards the firm Union of the People, for above 600 Years after, till Caius Gracchus broke the Peace of the City: And because the Plebeians in the City receiv'd such Advantage from this Constitution, in imitation thereof, afterwards all Colonies, Confede∣rate and Conquer'd Cities, had their Patrons, to whom frequently the Senate wou'd remit such Controver∣sies as were brought before 'em, and ratifie their Judgment.

After this, Romulus chose 100 Men out of the Patritians to assist him in the Government. This number he call'd a Senate,* 1.18 either from their Age or Vertue, or, a sinendo, because nothing was transacted without their Permission. Such of the Fathers as he enroll'd or enter'd into this Venerable Assembly,* 1.19 he call'd Patres Conscripti, as Dionysius right∣ly observes; and, to make up this Number, he chose three out of each Tribe, and as many out of each Curia; over all which he plac'd a particular Magistrate, to whom he committed the Government of the City when he was absent in the Wars; and this Magi∣strate was call'd Praefectus Urbis.* 1.20 After this, he imme∣diately proceeded to settle the Authorities of King, Senate, and People. The King's Office at home, was, To take care of the Religious Rites; to preserve the Laws and Customs; to decide the chief Causes between Man and Man, and refer the less Matters to the Senate, into which he had an Inspection; to call the Senate, assemble the Peo∣ple, first giving his own Opinion, then ratifying what was approv'd of by the major Part: Abroad, and in the Wars, He had absolute Authority. The Senate's Office was, To debate and resolve about such things as the King propos'd, which were decreed by the Majority of Voices. To the People he committed three Things; To create

Magistrates, make Laws, and resolve about any War that was propos'd by the King; yet still in such a manner as the Authority of the Senate always interpos'd.

The next thing that Romulus did, was to take care of a Guard for his Person; and therefore he order'd the Curiae to chuse him out 300 lusty young Men, ten out of each;* 1.21 and these were call'd Celeres, à ce∣leritate from their Activity and Readiness to assist the King upon all Occasions. They were commanded by a Tribune or Colonel,* 1.22 call'd Tribunus Celerum, three Centurions, and other Inferiour Officers. This Com∣pany, with their Spears, defended the King in the City, and in Battels were the foremost Leaders, Charging first and Retreating last. Besides these, he had for his Attendance,* 1.23 twelve Lictors or Sergeants, who punish'd Offenders, and executed his Com∣mands; these always going before him in Publick, with their Bundles of Rods, call'd Fasces, and their Axes, signifying different Punishments, according to Mens different Crimes. Thus Romulus, with all the Industry and Prudence imaginable, took care to settle the State, being very exact in Justice, and forbid∣ding all sordid Arts and Trades, especially such as were subservient to Luxury, which being left wholly to Slaves and Strangers, the Romans for many Years scorn'd to be concern'd in 'em. This is the Form of the Common-wealth, as Romulus first establish'd it, which in general was so excellent, that it was ad∣mir'd by Dionysius above all the Constitutions, even of his own Country-men the Grecians; and by its Healthfulness, and robust Constitution, had all the manifest Signs of a thriving and long-liv'd State.

II. Romulus, finding he was encompass'd with se∣veral powerful Nations,* 1.24 who, with envious Eyes be∣held the extraordinary Growth of his City, and ob∣serving how much it was fill'd by Fugitives, who had no Wives, he bethought himself of Means to contract

Alliance with his Neighbours, and to procure Wives for his Subjects, which was his second Device to en∣crease the City: Therefore, by Advice of his Grand-Father Numitor, and the Consent of the Senate, he proclaim'd a Solemn Feast and Publick Games, in Honour of Neptune, thro' all the Country thereabouts. This immediately occasion'd a great Concourse of all sorts of People, who came flocking in, with their Wives and Children, from several Neighbouring Pla∣ces, to behold these Pompous Shows, together with the new City. In the mid'st of the Solemnity, up∣on a Signal given, the Romans, with their drawn Swords, seiz'd on such Virgins as they cou'd most conveniently catch, and by main Force carry'd 'em to their Houses. The Number of these amounted to 683, for whom Romulus chose so many Husbands, and marry'd 'em after their own Country Rites, making 'em sign a Covenant or Agreement, with the Ceremonies of Fire and Water; which Custom continu'd among the Romans for many Ages.

This Act was highly resented by most of their Neighbours, especially the Sabines, who were prin∣cipally concern'd; but their Backwardness in their Preparations made the Cities Caenina, Antemna, and Crustumium, begin the War first. The two former (three or four Miles North of Rome, and Inhabited by the Aborigines) Romulus soon subdu'd, with the Death of their King Acron, whom he slew in a single Combat; and afterwards the latter, a Colony of Alba, a little way within the Country of the Sa∣bines. The Lands were divided between some of the Romans and the old Inhabitants, of whom 3000 were made Free of Rome, without losing their former E∣states; so that the Foot-men of the City were now much increas'd. For this Victory Romulus first Tri∣umph'd, and bringing home the Spoils of King A∣cron,* 1.25 which the Romans nam'd Opima Spolia, or Royal Spoils, he design'd a Spot of Ground upon Mount

Capitoline for a Temple to Iupiter Feretrius,* 1.26 so call'd either à ferendo to bear, or rather from ferire to strike; and this was the Place where the Capitol afterwards stood. The Valour of Romulus and his good Con∣duct in this War, together with his Clemency to the Conquer'd, had so great Effects, that not only many eminent Men went over to him with their Families, (amongst whom was Caelius, who gave Name to a Hill in the City) but some whole Nations commit∣ted themselves to his Protection, and receiv'd Colo∣nies from Rome.

This notable Success was a great Disappointment to the Sabines,* 1.27 who resolving to correct their former Carelessness by double Diligence, assembled them∣selves at Cures their Metropolis, proclaim'd War against Rome, and made choice of Tatius their King for Ge∣neral. On the other side, Romulus made all possible Provision for Resistance, fortifying the Capitoline and Aventine Hills, and receiving Auxiliary-Troops, both from Hetruria and his Grand-Father Numitor. The Sabines to have the fairer Pretence, first demanded Re∣stitution of the Virgins, and to have the Authors of the Injury deliver'd up to them; but receiving no satisfactory Answer, both Armies drew out into the Field, the Sabines, being 25000 Foot, and 1000 Horse, and the Romans 20000 Poot and 800 Horse; a great Number for a new built City. Tatius encamp'd be∣tween the Capitoline and Quirinal, but found 'em too well fortify'd to be attack'd; but one Tarpeia, Daugh∣ter to Tarpeius, Governour of the Capitoline, call'd to his Men from above, and agreed to betray the Place into their Hands, which was in a short Time effected. What she requir'd of 'em, as a Reward for this, was what they wore on their left Arms, meaning their Bracelets; but they threw their Targets upon her, which they wore on their left Arms, and press'd her to Death. From hence this Hill was call••d Tarpeius, till the building of the Capitol, which made it lose the

Name, except that part of it which was call'd the Tarpeian Rock, from whence they threw Malefactors down headlong.

The Sabines, now Masters of the Capitoline, had the Advantage of continuing the War at their pleasure; and for a long time only light Skirmishes pass'd be∣tween both Parties, with little or no Advantage to either side: But the Tediousness and Charge of the War so wearied out both Romans and Sabines, that they very much desir'd a Peace, but neither side wou'd stoop to sue for it. Thus they continu'd for a very considerable time, till both resolving to do their utmost, they came to a general Battel, which was re∣new'd several Days with almost equal Success. In the last Contest, the Romans were much worsted in the beginning, and fled to the Palatium; but rallying and renewing the Fight with Success against the Sa∣bines, the Women who were stolen and marry'd to the Romans, and the cause of this War, through the Per∣suasions of Hersilia, one of the principal among 'em, ran desperately into the midst of the Darts and dead Bodies, with their Children in their Arms, and their Hair about their Ears, making such lamentable Shrieks and Out-crys, that both Armies immediately desisted. These became Mediators, and made Peace between the Fathers and Son-in-Laws, after the War had lasted six Years. The Articles were, First, That Romulus and Tatius shou'd reign jointly in Rome,* 1.28 with equal Power and Prerogative: Secondly, That the City from Romulus shou'd still be call'd Rome, but the Ci∣tizens Quirites,* 1.29 from Cures the native Place of Tatius: Thirdly, That now the two Nations shou'd become one, and as many of the Sabines as were willing, shou'd be made Free of Rome.

The City being now much increas'd by the Num∣ber of the Sabines, Mount Capitoline was taken in, built upon, and laid out for their Habitation. Romu∣lus chose out 100 of the most noble of the Sabines,

and added 'em to the Senate, so that it now consisted of 200 Persons.* 1.30 The Legions, (so call'd ab eligendo, because they were choice select Men) which before contain'd 3000 Men, were now encreas'd also to 4000, whence a Legion was call'd Quadrata; yet af∣terwards a Legion compris'd as many Men as was found convenient for the Service of the Common-wealth. Several new Feasts were instituted upon the account of this Union, as Matronalia, Carmentala, &c. and a particular Respect was had to those Women who procur'd this happy Reconciliation, and several Privileges were allow'd 'em, particularly they were exempted from all Work unless Spinning and ma∣king of Cloth. Now the Tribes were call'd by distinct Names; the first Rhamnenses, from Romulus; the se∣cond Tatienses, from Tatius; and the third Luceres, from the Lucus or Grove where the Asylum stood. For five Years the two King's reign'd quietly and peaceably together; but in the sixth, Tatius prote∣cting some of his Friends who had robb'd and plun∣der'd the Lavinians, and killing the Ambassadors who were sent to demand Satisfaction, was slain by the Lavinians at his going to sacrifice there. Romulus, like a generous Prince, made Satisfaction to the injured Persons, and bury'd Tatius in Rome very honourably.

III. Romulus,* 1.31 once more sole Monarch of Rome, march'd against Fidenae, and subdu'd it, a Town five Miles off Rome, that had seiz'd on Provisions coming thither in time of Famine; and soon after, he took Cameria, an Alban Colony not far distant; into both which he sent a sufficient Number of Romans to in∣habit 'em, according to his usual Custom. Then he punish'd the Crustumini, who had kill'd their Planters which he had plac'd among 'em; and over all these he obtain'd a second Triumph. The Action of Ro∣mulus against the Fidenates was extremely resented

by the Veientes their Neighbours, who immediately by an Embassy requir'd the Romans to withdraw their Garrison, and restore the Inhabitants to all their former Privileges. These Veientes were one of the twelve Nations of Hetruria, a powerful People, inhabiting a strong City, and of extraordinary Largeness, situated upon a craggy Rock about twelve Miles North of Rome. Their Demands be∣ing rejected, they began their Acts of Hostility, and both Armies met at Fidenae; where, after two sharp Engagements, Romulus became Conqueror. The Veientes were now forc'd to betake themselves to In∣treaties, and so enter'd into a League with the Ro∣mans for 100 Years,* 1.32 upon these Articles; To quit a seventh part of their Dominions, with their Salt-pits nigh the River, and to give up fifty Hostages of the most consi∣derable Families. Romulus for this, triumph'd a third time, leading with him their General, an aged Man, who had so badly perform'd his Duty, that he was afterwards personated by an old Man in all Tri∣umphs.

This was the last War manag'd by Romulus, who after that imploy'd most of his Time in settling the Government, and placing it upon the surest Founda∣tions. He made many good and profitable Laws, most of which were unwritten. Particularly he made one concerning Marriages, where the Authority of the Husband was so well and conveniently settl'd, that for 520 Years, a Divorce was not known in Rome. He gave Fathers absolute Power over their Sons, to sell, imprison, scourge, or kill 'em, tho' in never so great an Office, and that as long as they liv'd. He appointed no Punishment for real Parricide, but call'd all Murder by that Name; thinking the latter a destable Crime, but the other impossible: And it was a indeed Crime never known in Rome for 600 Years. For the Peoples Way of Living, he enjoy'd two Courses of Life, Warfare and Husbandry, equally dividing the Lands,

Slaves, and Money, taken from the Enemy; he appointed a Market once in nine Days, which from thence was call'd Nundinae.* 1.33 When any Town was taken, he suffer'd no Prisoner of Man's Age to be slain or sold, or their Lands left untill'd, but order'd a Colony from Rome to cultivate them, and some of the Strangers to be admitted to the Freedom and Privileges of the City; and this was his third Contrivance to encrease the City. As to Controver∣sies that might arise upon any Injuries, he immedi∣ately decided 'em, or referr'd 'em to others, infli∣cting speedy Punishments according to the Nature of the Crime. Finding publick Spectacles to have a great Influence upon the People, he set up his Judg∣ment-Seat in the most conspicuous Place in the Fo∣rum, where his Guard of 300 Celeres, and his twelve Lictors with their Rods and Axes, in view of all the People, scourging or executing Malefactors, occa∣sion••d an extraordinary Awe and Respect.

In the latter end of his Reign, whether swell'd with the Imagination of his former Successes and present Security, or carry'd away with some pleasing Notions of Arbitrary Government, he began to grow very Tyrannical, inlarging his Prerogative beyond those Bounds he had formerly set to it, and making use of the Senate only to ratifie his Commands. Tho' he was extreamly belov'd by the common Peo∣ple, yet these Actions gain'd him the Hatred of the Nobility and Senate, and brought him to an untime∣ly Death; he being torn in pieces, as is generally be∣liev'd, in the Senate House, the Senators carrying his Body out by Piece-meal under their Gowns to pre∣vent Discovery. The Senators took an occasion from the Secrefie of the Fact, and the Concealment of the Body, to persuade the Multitude that he was taken up among the Gods; and Iulius Proculus, one of the chief of the Nobility, did almost put all out of doubt by swearing solemnly, That Romulus appear'd

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to him, and told him, It was the Pleasure of the Immor∣tal Gods to have him continue among Mankind, till he had founded a City whose Empire and Glory shou'd far surpass all others. He ••ad him farewell, and tell his Subjects, that by their strict Exercise of Temperance and Fortitude, no human Power shou'd e'er withstand the Roman Arms; and he wou'd always be a propitious God to 'em, under the Name of Quirinus.* 1.34 The Day, in which he was said to be taken up, was kept after that as a great Holy-Day; and a Temple was built in Honour of him on one of the Seven Hills, from him call'd by the Name of Quirinalis.

He reign'd 37 Years, in which space he very much advanc'd the State of the City, leaving in it 46000 Foot and 1000 Horse; a happy Increase for so short a time. After his Grand-Father Numitor's decease, the Kingdom of Alba fell to him, which he govern'd by Deputies; and the more to please that People, he allow'd 'em the Privileges of a Free-State, which probably occasion'd the Senate to bear his Encroach∣ments the worse. So now the Roman Dominions con∣sisted of a considerable part of the Sabines Country, a small part of Hetruria, and a mix'd part of Latium.

CHAP. II.

From the Death of Romulus to the Death of Numa Pompilius, the Second King of Rome.

Containing the Space of 44 Years.

I. ROmulus being dead,* 1.35 or, as some are pleased to believe, taken up; the City was greatly di∣vided about the Election of another King; but lest

these Discords shou'd occasion Anarchy and Confusi∣on in the Common-wealth, the Senate agreed to di∣vide themselves into Decurys or Tens, and that Decury which was chosen by Lot should exercise the Regal Authority for fifty Days, each Man governing in his Turn five Days, the Authority then falling to another Decury;* 1.36 and this they call'd an Inter-regnum. This Government continu'd a whole Year, till the People at last began to murmur, saying, It was a Trick of some few who intended to get the Power into their own Hands, and that for one pretended Tyrant they had now got 200 real ones; therefore they resolv'd that a King shou'd be chosen. In the Election great Contests a∣rose between the Romans and Sabines, each believing it reasonable to have one of their own Country; 'till at length they came to this Conclusion, That the Par∣ty which elected shou'd chuse one out of the Body of the other, so by that means the elected Prince might be oblig'd to favour both Parties, one for their Votes, and the other for their Alliance. It falling to the Romans to chuse, the Patritians fix••d upon Numa Pompilius, a Sabine, a Person of about forty Years of Age, who by the Consent of the People was elected King. Numa then resided at Cures, being a Person of the greatest Vertue, Knowledge and Abilities of that time, and had withdrawn himself from the Noises and Troubles of the World; therefore Ambassadors, one a Roman, and the other a Sabine, were dispatch'd to him to offer him the Kingdom.

The Ambassadors finding him with his Father and Kinsman Marcius, by their Speakers, Proculus and Vale∣sus, told him the occasion of their coming: To whom the elected King made this philosophical and modest Answer: Since every Alteration of a Man's Life is gene∣rally hazardous in the Attempt, as well as dangerous in the Consequence; it wou'd be the highest Indiscretion for one, who, in his own Opinion, is sufficiently Happy, to endea∣vour, or admit of any Change; tho' there were nothing

more in it than the preferring a turbulent and uncertain Life, before a constant Quiet and certain Security. For my part, Romans, I must freely tell you, That I am not only dis∣courag'd, but even deterr'd from accepting your generous Of∣fers, even by what is commonly reported of your famous Ro∣mulus, who was not only suspected of contriving Tatius's death, but was likewise suppos'd to fall himself by the Rage of the Senate. And if Romulus himself, sprung, as they say, from Divine Race, miraculously preserv'd, and as mi∣raculously brought up, labour'd under such vast Inconvenien∣cies; how successful can I hope to be, begotten by a mere Mor∣tal, and brought up the ordinary Way, when I come to struggle with such insuperable Difficulties? Besides, you much mistake your Person, as well as forget your Interest and Glory, when you think I can be any ways serviceable to you: For my Temper naturally leads me to Peace, to Books, and the Wor∣ship of the Gods; but you Romans require a vigorous and active King, who may diligently cherish that Warlike Hu∣mour which your late Success has excited: And therefore such a Prince as shou'd come to inculcate Peace, Iustice, and Re∣ligion into the Minds of a Martial Nation, must of neces∣sity appear not only strange and ridiculous to the World, but also mean and despicable to his Subjects.

The Romans were much surpriz'd at this Answer, but still were very urgent with him to accept of the Kingdom; in which they were not a little assisted by his Father and Marcius, who return'd him this Reply: Tho' you remain contented with your present fortune, and court neither Riches nor Power; yet you may reasonably imagine that such large Talents of Iustice, Moderation, and Piety, were never given you by the Gods to lie useless and conceal••d: And you are sensible these are Vertues that can ne∣ver have a greater Influence upon Mankind, than when they so publickly appear in the Person of a King. Tatius, tho' a Foreigner, was highly esteem'd by the Romans, and the Memory of Romulus, was so precious to 'em, that after his decease, they voted him Divine Honours: And if the Affecti∣ons of the People shou'd break out into a furious Desire of War,

what can better manage the Reins of that Passion than such a moderating Hand as Yours? And who knows but that the People, being ever Victorious, may be satiated with the Spoils and Trophies they have gain'd, and gladly entertain a mild and peaceful Prince, who being a lover of Iustice and Equity, may settle the City in a strong and inseparable Union, and in a sure and lasting Happiness? These Rea∣sons and Persuasions, together with the Ambassadors Entreaties, at last prevail'd upon Numa to accept of the Kingdom; and after a solemn Sacrifice he went for Rome. He was met by the Way by the Senate and People, who with a general Consent invested him with the Regal Authority; and so universal was the Joy, that they seem'd not so much to receive a King, as the addition of a new Kingdom.

II. Numa being a Person of extraordinary Wis∣dom and Policy,* 1.37 as well as Devotion, thought it most convenient to raise and strengthen that City by wholsome Laws, and Religious Customs, which had been founded upon War and Bloodshed; judging it as necessary to employ a People well at home, as to exercise 'em abroad. The first thing he did was to disband the Royal Guard of the 300 Celeres, lest the Maintenance of such a Force might seem to argue a Diffidence of them that chose him, saying, That he wou'd not Rule over that People of whom he conceiv'd the least Distrust.* 1.38 Next he built a Temple to Ianus, which was always to stand open in time of War, and to be shut in time of Peace, as it continu'd all his Reign; which, as some observe, never hapned but four times from his Reign to that of Tiberius Caesar. To the two Flamens or High-Priests of Iupiter and Mars, he added a third of Quirinus or Romulus; and to this Prince also is ascrib'd the bringing in of the Pontifices,* 1.39 whereof he himself was one, and officiated accordingly. He also ordain'd the Vestal Virgins,* 1.40 being four in Num∣ber, to whom he gave very great Privileges; par∣ticularly

when they went abroad they had the Fasces carry'd before 'em, and in their Walks, if they met with a Malefactor leading to Execution, they had the Power of freeing him from Death, upon Oath given that the Meeting was meerly Accidental. He also Instituted the Orders of the Salii and the Feciales,* 1.41 Priests devoted to Mars; the former were to carry those Sacred Shields call'd Ancilia, and the latter to judge of the Equity of War, and proclaim it with much Ceremony.

This Prince, tho' naturally averse to all Wars, yet consider'd that Peace and Security might too much soften and degenerate the Minds of the Multitude; therefore he us'd his utmost Endeavours to imprint on their Minds the Notions of Religion and Vertue, and the due Reverence of God: And to gain the more Credit and Obedience to his Constitutions, he pretended he had often and immediate Converse with the Goddess Eg••ria, and wou'd be often telling them that strange Visions and Apparitions were seen, and Prophetick Voices heard; which Stories had great and remarkable Effects upon a People so super∣stitiously inclin'd. Yet his Religion was of a refin'd Nature, being much like that of Pythagoras afterwards; and as he taught, That the Principle of all Things was not to be perceiv'd by Sence, nor was liable to Motion, but was Invisible, Immortal, and to be apprehended by the Understanding alone; so Numa forbad the Romans to use the Image of any God, which represented him under the Form of a Man, or any other living Crea∣ture: And this was strictly observ'd in all their Tem∣ples and Sacred Places, for 170 Years at the least; they holding it a great Crime to liken such superiour Beings to Things so much below 'em.

For the Encouragement of Agriculture, he divided those Lands which Romulus had gain'd in War among the poorer sort, causing his Subjects to apply them∣selves to Husbandry, and by such kind of Employ∣ments

to cultivate their Minds as well as the Earth: Then he divided all the Lands into several Parcels, to which he gave the name of Pagi,* 1.42 or Boroughs; and over every one of these he ordain'd a Chief, or Arbitrator in Judicial Causes. And that he might take away all Distinction of Roman and Sabine, which threatn'd the State with endless Factions and dange∣rous Divisions, he divided all the Inhabitants accord∣ing to their several Trades and Occupations, making e∣very Art a particular Company and Society, and appoint∣ing to every one their respective Courts and Privile∣ges; and this was his Master-piece in Politicks. He much abated the Rigour of that Law made by Romu∣lus concerning the Power of Fathers over their Chil∣dren, making it unlawful for 'em to sell their Sons after Marriage, because it was very unjust that a Wo∣man who had marry'd a Free-Man shou'd be con∣strain'd to live with a Slave. He also prescrib'd Rules concerning Mourning; a Child of Three Years, and so upwards to Ten, was to be mourn'd for so many Months as it was Years old; and the longest time of Mourning for any Person, was not to exceed the term of Ten Months: Which also was the Time appointed for Widdows, before which, they cou'd not, without great Indecency, marry again; but in case Circumstances were such as not to admit of so long a Term, they were first to sacrifice a Cow with a Calf for Expiation of their Fault.

One of the principal Things done by this Prince was the Reformation of the Year, which, in Romulus's Time was much out of Order, some Months having more than 35 Days, and some fewer than twenty. Numa finding the Solar Year to exceed the Lunar by eleven Days, doubled these eleven Days, and every other Year inserted a Month after February, consist∣ing of 22 Days, which was by the Romans call'd Mercedonius,* 1.43 because it was the usual time for paying of Wages. He likewise chang'd the Order of the

Months, making Ianuary and February the first and second Months, which were the two last in Romulus's Days.* 1.44 Ianuary had its name from Ianus, the most ancient God or King in Italy. February was so call'd from the Expiations which us'd to be in it, signify'd by the wor'd Februa. March, so call'd from Mars, the suppos'd Father of Romulus, which, upon that account, had been plac'd first. April from Aphrodite or Venus, because of the Superstitious Worship which was perform'd in it, when the Women were crown'd with Myrtle. May, so nam'd from Maia, the Mother of Mercury, to whom this Month was made Sacred. Iune, from Iuno, or as some will have it, from Iu∣ventus, because the Season is warm, and, as it were, Iuvenile. The rest had their Names from their Order, as Quintilis, Sextilis, September, October, Novem∣ber, and December; only Quintilis and Sextilis were afterwards turn'd into Iuly and August, by the Em∣perors Iulius Caesar and Augustus.

Numa was marry'd to Tatia, King Tatius's Daugh∣ter, by whom he had one Daughter nam'd Pompilia; and after a Reign of 43 Years, being above 80 Years old, he dy'd, and was bury'd with great Honour and Solemnity. He forbad his Body to be burnt, as it was usual in those days, but was bury'd in a Stone Coffin, under the Hill Ianiculum; and the Books of his Ceremonies were laid by him in another, being Twelve, written in Latin, and as many in Greek: These were taken up about 400 Years after; and because it was thought a piece of Impiety to com∣municate such Mysteries to the Multitude, were burnt by Order of the Senate. He kept the State in such a constant Peace, by his prudent Management, as did very much contribute to the Strength and Security of the City, and he much improv'd and polish'd the rough Genius of the Roman People.

CHAP. III.

From the Death of Numa, to the Death of Tullus Hostilius, the Third King of Rome.

Containing the space of 33 Years.

I. UPon the Death of Numa,* 1.45 the Government once more devolv'd upon the Senate, and after several Interreges, Tullus Hostilius was created King by the universal consent of all People. He was Grandson to the famous Hostilius, who, in Romulus's Days had behav'd himself very Valiantly against the Sabines in the Citadel, and had Marry'd the Daugh∣ter of Hersilia. He was of a bold and fiery Temper, and one who often sought and greedily embrac'd all Occasions of War; led to it partly by his own proper Inclination, and partly by the Glory and Renown of his Grand-Father. As he thought the Love of his Subjects the most necessary thing to carry on the De∣signs of a Warlike Prince; so in the beginning of his Reign he purchas'd the good Opinion of the Poorer sort, by dividing to them, Man by Man, that Portion of Land which his Predecessors, the two former Kings had kept to bear their Charges, saying, That his own Inheritance was sufficient for his own Ex∣pences. That none of these might want Room, he enlarg'd the City, and took in the Hill Caelius, where he also had his Palace; and all such as had now gotten Ground, and wanted Habitations, built upon it; so the City encreas'd in Bulk every day.

It was not long before this Prince had a fair Op∣portunity of War offer'd him,* 1.46 for Cluilius, Governour or Dictator of Alba, envying the Growth of Rome, had procur'd some Persons to Rob and Pillage in the Roman Territories, knowing they wou'd revenge the Injury; which, when they did, he perswaded the Albans, that they had receiv'd a great Affront, and caus'd 'em to take up Arms: But that there might be some Appearance of Reason, and for the greater For∣mality, Ambassadors were sent to Rome to demand Restitution. Hostilius presently perceiv'd the Design, and well knowing that they who first refus'd Satis∣faction, wou'd bear the greatest Blame, by nobly treating the Ambassadors, cunningly delay'd giving Answer, till he cou'd send to demand Restitution at Alba. His Ambassadors receiv'd a sharp Repulse from Cluilius at Alba, upon notice whereof, Hostilius gave Audience to the Alban Ambassadors, telling them, How he had receiv'd such an Answer from Alba as ar∣gu'd the League broken; whereupon he proclaim'd a just and necessary War against the Albans, which he wou'd carry on to the utmost. Both Parties made all possible Preparations, and drew out their Forces a∣bout five Miles from Rome, to a Place afterwards call'd Cluilius Ditch; where, when they expected to have decided the Quarrel, Cluilius was found dead in his Tent, but whether by a natural or violent Death is uncertain. In his Place was chosen Metius Fuffetius, a Person who had no other Qualifications to recom∣mend him to this Office, besides his turbulent Spirit, and his being as great an Incendiary as his Prede∣cessor.

At the same time the Fidenates and Veientes, who in Romulus's days had submitted to the Romans, and in Numa's Reign were preparing and seeking for an Op∣portunity to shake off their Yoak, had now drawn their Forces together at Fidenae, with Design to fall upon both Romans and Albans, after they had weak∣ned

themselves in Battel. The News of these Prepa∣rations at first put the Armies to a stand, and made 'em both decline Fighting for a while; till at last Fuf∣fetius fearing these People, and Hostilius desiring to pu∣nish them, came both to a sort of an Accomodati∣on; agreeing, That for the Safety of both Nations, the Quarrel shou'd be decided by a Combat of three Persons on each side, and the Conquering Party shou'd obtain the Preemi∣nence and Command over the other. These Proposals were no sooner ratify'd, but many Valiant Persons, ambitious of the Honour of serving their Country, offer'd themselves to be the Combatants, but cou'd not be accepted of, others being before agreed upon: For it hapned that one Segvinius of Alba had formerly two Daughters, one marry'd to Curiatius an Alban, and the other to Horatius a Roman, who being both with Child at the same time, were deliver'd of Three Sons at a Birth. Now, to these two Ternions of Brothers was this great Combat committed, as being of equal Years, Strength, and Courage; and all Mat∣ters of Consanguinity and private Affections dis∣penc'd withal.

Now was the Fate of Rome to be decided by Six Persons only, which rais'd all Peoples Hopes and Fears to a more than ordinary Pitch: The Lists were prepar'd between the two Armies, Judges were ap∣pointed, and the Combat perform'd with extraordi∣nary Pomp and Solemnity, and with as much Cou∣rage and Resolution on both Sides. The Curiatii were in a short time all wounded, but two of the Horatii were slain downright, and the third, unhurt, left to oppose three Adversaries. At this the Albans gave a great Shout; but he, not the least daunted, cunning∣ly retreated as tho' he had wholly fled, and drawing 'em out severally, so as to have but one against him at once, he slew 'em all, and Rome became Con∣queror. At his return to the City, his Sister met him with many provoking and reproachful Words,

for imbruing his Hands in the Blood of his Cozen-Germains, whereof one was contracted to her; up∣on which Horatius, elevated with the Honour of his Conquest, and transported with the Love of his Country, slew her upon the Spot. For which Fact, when he was accused, Hostilius avoided giving Judg∣ment himself, but hereupon created those Officers, call'd Duumviri,* 1.47 for Capital Punishments, and they Condemn'd him: But there lying an Appeal from these Officers to the People, they gave him his Life at the Request of his Father, who esteem'd it as a great and Heroick Act, and gave his Daughter Igno∣minious Burial, for a dreadful Example to all who pre∣ferr'd Private Respect before the Publick Good. Ho∣stilius dealt very gently with the Albans, but, not∣withstanding, for the Advantages gain'd over them, had a Triumph.

II. The Fidenates and Veientes,* 1.48 finding that they were like to be call'd to an Account for their treache∣rous Practices, now broke into open Rebellion; and Fuffetius enrag'd at the Event of the late Com∣bat, and hoping to free himself from the Roman Power, privately encourag'd 'em with large Pro∣mises of Assistance if they stood in need of it. The Romans and Albans now made up one Army, and were advancing towards the Fidenates and Veientes; but, upon their nigh Approach, Fuffetius, who had laid all his Designs before-hand, drew off all the Alban Troops on one side, with a Resolution of joining with the prevailing Party. The Romans, apprehending the danger of their Separation, and fearing some Treachery, were greatly discourag'd at it; but Hostilius, tho' satisfy'd of the Villany, im∣mediately gave it out as publickly as he cou'd, That it was done by his Order, and was all a Stratagem to sur∣prise the Enemy: At this unexpected Report the Fidenates and their Companions were quite disheartned, upon

Suspicion of their Friends Infidelity, and, in a short time were put to the Rout by the Romans; for which Victory Hostilius triumph'd a second Time. After the Battel, Fuffetius join'd with the Romans again, like one that had done nothing amiss; but Hostilius, assem∣bling the whole Body of the Albans, and then laying before them all his treacherous Practices and villa∣nous Designs, caus'd him to be torn in pieces by Horses; having before-hand sent Marcus Horatius to Alba, who utterly demolish'd that City, and trans∣planted the Inhabitants to Rome. Thus fell the City of Alba, once famous for its Riches and Number of Inhabitants, after it had flourished 487 Years.

Rome grew much in Strength, Riches, and Gran∣deur out of the Ruins of Alba; Mount Caelius being appointed for the Inhabitants that came from thence; and the King allowing 'em all the Roman Privileges. He chose the Nobility of the Albans into the Senate, particularly the Tullii, Servilii, Quintii, Geganii, Curiatii, and the Claelii; and that he might out of those new People make some Addition to the Strength of eve∣ry Order, he chose ten Troops of Horse out of the Albans: In Confidence of this his Strength, after an ••••ntire Reduction of the Fidenates, he declar'd War against the Sabines,* 1.49 who before had committed seve∣ral Robberies upon the Romans that traded with 'em. He met 'em at the Wood call'd Malitiosa Sylva, where, especially by the help of his Horse who broke all ••heir Ranks, after a short Engagement, he entirely defeated 'em, forcing 'em to beg Peace; over whom ••e obtain'd a third Triumph. The Latines were not yet quiet, refusing to pay Obedience to the Romans, which occasion'd several Contests; but this War was manag'd with great Moderation, no Battel ••eing fought, no Town taken or plunder'd besides Medallia, which Hostilius punish'd for an Example, ••ecause it had receiv'd a Roman Colony in Romu∣••us's time.

This War lasted most of the rest of his Days, and in the latter end of his Reign, Rome was much in∣fected with Plagues and Famines, and as much frightn'd with Prodigies. Then Hostilius began to think of bringing in the Religious Ceremonies of Numa, which he had all this time took little Notice of; but soon after he died, after a Reign of 32 Years; some say by Lightning, with his whole Fa∣mily, tho' more probably by some treasonable Pra∣ctices. In this Reign, the 300 Celeres were again re∣assum'd, which had been dif-us'd in the last; and the City was very much increas'd, tho' the Dominions were little different from those in Romulus's Days, on∣ly they seem'd to have a surer Footing in some Places than before.

CHAP. IV.

From the Death of Hostilius to the Death of Ancus Marcius, the Fourth King of Rome.

Containing the space of 24 Years.

I. AFter the Death of Tullus Hostilius,* 1.50 the State fell into an Interregnum, as formerly; and in a short time, Ancus Marcius was made King by the Inter-Rex and Senate, and was confirm'd so by the People. He had his Surname Ancus from his crooke•• Arm, which he cou'd not stretch out in length, as Fe∣stus has it: He was Grand-Son to Numa, the second King of Rome, by Pompilia his Daughter, and Marcius his Kinsman, who was the Son of that Marcius who had persuaded Numa to accept of the Kingdom, and after Numa's death had kill'd himself because he did

not succeed him. This Prince was much of the same Temper with his Grand-Father Numa; and considering that much of the Religion, and many of the Ceremonies had been neglected in the last Reign, he set himself to restore them to their former Use. For that reason he insinuated to the People, that the Diseases, Pestilence, and other innumerable Calami∣ties which had lately befallen the City, together with the disasterous End of Hostilius, proceeded from want of Devotion and a Neglect of their Gods. He highly commended the Orders and Institutions of Numa, and wou'd be often shewing the great Blessings of the State, and how much it flourish'd under that happy Reign; advising his Subjects to return to their Hus∣bandry and more peaceable Employments, and to lay aside all Sorts of Violence, and all Profit that arises from War and Bloodshed.

The State thus setled,* 1.51 he expected, as his Grand-Father had done, to pass his time free from all Wars and Troubles; but he soon found his Designs cross'd, and was compell'd to be a Warrior against his Will, and was scarce ever free from publick Perils and Trou∣bles. He had scarce began his Reign, and modell'd the Commonwealth, when the Latines contemning him as a sluggish Prince, and unfit for Military Af∣fairs, made Incursions into the Roman Territories. Upon which, he was oblig'd to make all necessary Preparations for a War, proclaiming it according to the Ceremonies appointed by his Grand-Father Numa. First an Ambassador was sent to the Frontiers of the Agressor's Country, who in a Woollen Shash, and a peculiar Dress, and likewise in a solemn Form of Speech, demanded Satisfaction; which not being granted in 33 Days, after a Consultation with the Se∣nate, the Feciales or Heraulds were immediately sent in their proper Habits,* 1.52 with Javelins headed with Iron, or all bloody and burnt at the end; where in the Presence of three young Men at least, they in

the Name of the Gods and People of Rome, solemn∣ly proclaim'd War with that Country, and then threw their Javelins into their Confines. This Cu∣stom was brought in by Numa, the Rules whereof were taken from the Aequicoli, a very ancient People.

Ancus began this War with good Success, and first took Politorium by Storm, a Town of the Latines, 14 or 15 Miles South-East of Rome; the Inhabitants of which, according to the usual Custom, he transplan∣ted to Rome, allowing them the Privileges of Free Citizens. And whereas the old Romans inhabited the Palatine, the Sabines the Capitoline, and the Albans the Caelian, he granted the Aventine Hill for the La∣tines to possess; the number of whom were encrea∣sed, upon the subduing of Tellene and Ficania, two La∣tine Towns nigh Politorium, which he took soon af∣ter. He is a little time likewise took Medallia, a Place of considerable Strength, and also Politorium a∣gain; for the Latines finding it empty had possess'd themselves of it, which made Ancus intirely demolish it. The Latines, inrag'd at their Losses, made greater Preparations for the next Campaign; but, at several times, he ruin'd their Designs, broke their united Forces,* 1.53 forc'd 'em to beg Peace, and obtain'd a Tri∣umph over 'em. Not long after he subdu'd the Fide∣nates, Veientes, and the Volsci, who had fallen out with him; and likewise such of the Sabines, who, not ha∣ving felt the strength of Rome, had sorely repin'd at the exceeding Growth of an upstart City. These latter he overthrew again,* 1.54 and obtain'd over them a second Triumph.

II. Ancus did not only perform many great Acts abroad, but also did many noble Works at home: First upon the Account of the Success of his Arms, he re-built the Temple of Iupiter Feretrius after a more stately and magnificent manner than before. He fortify'd the Hill Ianiculum, on the other side of

the River Tiber, for the greater strengthening of the City, and to prevent its being a Refuge for Enemies, uniting it to the City with a wooden Bridge over that River. He likewise made a large Ditch call'd Fossa Quiritium, which was no small Defence against such as came from the Plains. And now, the City having receiv'd a vast Increase, seeing that such Mul∣titudes of People of all sorts cou'd not but produce many Criminals, he built a large Prison for Male∣factors in the Heart of the City, just facing the Fo∣rum, to be a Terror to their growing Boldness. He did not only enlarge the Pomaerium of the City, but likewise its Dominions; for having taken from the Veientes the Maesian Forest, his Territories reach'd to the Sea,* 1.55 upon which, at the Mouth of the River Tiber, he built a Town call'd Ostia, nigh ten Miles South of Rome, to secure the Advantages of Trade to his Subjects; for thither Commodities being brought by Ships, were in lesser Vessels convey'd up the Tiber to this City; and about this Town, many Salt-pits were made.

This Prince, as well as his Predecessors, was very ready and careful to incourage Strangers; and by reason of the frequent Advancement of such, and the great Privileges they receiv'd, many came daily hither, and often such as were of good Note. Among these Lucumon an Hetrurian was one, a Person of great Accomplishments as well as large Possessions, who came hither from Tarquinia in Hetruria, with his Wife Tanaquil, and several Followers. He was Son to De∣maratus a rich Merchant of Corinth, who had left his Country upon the account of the Troubles at that time, and settled in Tarquinia, where marrying a no∣ble Matron, he had this Son, besides another who died Childless. Lucumon finding no Incouragement in his own Country, being the Son of a Foreigner, remov'd to Rome, where by his Hospitality and Bounty he soon became known to the King; having

now taken upon him the Name of Lucius, adding that of Tarquinius from the Place of his Birth. He was ho∣nourably treated by Ancus, to whom he generously offer'd his whole Patrimony for the Publick Good, and by that means obtain'd Freedom for himself and Followers, with Lands both for Building and for Su∣stenance. Ancus in a little time chose him into the Senate, for he was greatly esteem'd by the King, and as much belov'd by the People; no Man being more hardy in War, or more prudent in Councel.

Ancus bestow'd most of his latter Time in inrich∣ing his Subjects and improving the City, and at the end of 24 Years Reign he died; a Prince not inferior to any of his Predecessors, either for the Glory he gain'd in Peace or War. He left behind him two Sons, both under Age, which he committed to the Guardianship of the foremention'd Lucius Tarquinius, as the fittest Person he cou'd employ in such an Of∣fice. The Roman Dominions were now encreas'd beyond what they were in the last Reign, by a lar∣ger Part of Hetruria taken from the Veientes, and a much better Footing in Latium.

CHAP. V.

From the Death of Ancus Marcius, to the Death of Tarquinius Priscus, the Fifth King of Rome.

Containing the space of 38 Years.

I. ANcus being dead, the Senate receiv'd Power from the People,* 1.56 to order the Affairs of the Commonwealth, and created certain Interreges, as formerly. In this short Interregnum, Tarquin was ex∣tremely

busie about the Election of a King, having great hopes of it himself: Therefore to remove all Obstacles to his Designs, he sent Ancus's two Sons out a Hunting, the eldest being then nigh 14 Years of Age, and assembling the People, he made a plausible Speech to 'em, wherein he plainly begg'd the King∣dom, urging the Examples of Tatius and Numa; the first an Enemy as well as a Stranger, and the second whol∣ly unacquainted with the City; whereas he himself was so great a Friend to the City, that he had spent all his Riches upon it; and so well acquainted with it, that he had been train'd up several Years both in Civil and Military Affairs under their King. Then he cunningly insinuated his past Services, and insisting more than ordinary upon his Liberality, he obtain'd the Kingdom, being the first who obtain'd it by his own ambitious seeking. At the beginning of his Reign, the better to gain the Love of the Common People, he chose out 100 of the Plebeians, who for Valour or Wisdom were most Eminent, and added them to the Senate, which made up the Number 300; those of Romulus's Crea∣tion being call'd Patres Conscripti, these were call'd Patres minorum Gentium;* 1.57 that is, Senators of a lower Rank. He likewise encreas'd the Number of Vestal Virgins from four to seven; but Plutarch says there were but two before.

His first War was with the Latines,* 1.58 from whom he took several Towns, among the rest Collatia, a Place five Miles North-East of Rome; over which pe plac'd his Nephew Aruns Tarquinius for Governour, the Post∣humus Issue of his Brother, surnam'd Egerius from his want of Patrimony, and Collatinus from the Place, which Surname continu'd to his Posterity. Notwith∣standing the Latines great Supplies from Hetruria, he soon forc'd 'em to beg Peace; and then turn'd his Arms against the Sabines, who had again risen up a∣gainst Rome. Both Armies met upon the Banks of Anio, where the Romans made use of a Stratagem, by

sending a Party of Men, to burn a great Heap of Wood that lay by the River-side, and to throw it in; which being driven forwards by the Wind, much of the flaming Wood got hold on the Wood of the Bridge, and set it on fire. This not only terri∣fi••d the Sabines while they were engaging, but when they were routed, hinder'd their Flight, their Bridge being burnt down; and therefore many of 'em, tho' they escap'd the Sword, perish'd in the Water; whose floating Arms being carry'd down the Tiber to Rome, discover'd the Victory there, almost before the News cou'd be carry'd. Tarquin proceeded to march into the Sabine Territories, where the Sabines, tho' with small Hopes, met him with an undisciplin'd Ar∣my; and being defeated a second time, they were forc'd to beg Peace.* 1.59 Over the Sabines, Tarquin ob∣tain'd his first Triumph.

Soon after the Sabine-War was finish'd, all Hetruria (or rather the Neighbouring Parts) combin'd against him, upon the Account of his detaining some Prisoners of theirs whom he had taken among the Sabines. They had made a Law among themselves, That whatever Town refus'd to join against the Romans, shou'd not be accounted of their Body; and they soon after possess'd themselves of Fidenae, a Roman Colony. But he was so successful against 'em, as to overthrow 'em in several Battels, and upon his preparing for another Campaign, they were humbled, and to purchase Peace, they own••d him for their Prince; and, in to∣kens of Allegiance, sent him all the Ensigns of So∣vereignty which their Kings were usually adorn'd with: These were a Crown of Gold, an Ivory Chair, a Sc••p••re with an Eagle on the top, a Purple-Coat wrought with Gold, and a Purple-Gown pink'd, almost like the Robes of the Persian and Lydian Kings, only it was not four-square, but of a semi-circular Figure. From hence also came the R••bes and Coats us'd by the Au∣gurs and Heralds, with many of their Ornaments us'd

in Rome afterwards; the Axes they had before, tho' now they receiv'd 'em again.* 1.60 Over these People Tarquin triumph'd a second time. This War finish'd, which continu'd nine Years, he fell a second time up∣on the Sabines, who now alone contended with the Romans for Superiority, over whom he obtain'd a third Triumph; and providing for another Expedi∣tion, they yielded, whom he receiv'd on the same Terms with the Hetrurians.

II. Tarquin was no less mindful of strengthning the City at home, than of enlarging his Domini∣ons abroad; for when he found leisure, he built the Walls of the City, which before were patch'd up in haste, with large square Stone, each consisting of a Load Weight. Then he took care of the other publick Buildings of the City, adorning the Forum with lofty Portico's, Galleries, and Shops, being a Prince much delighted with stately Buildings and noble Sights.* 1.61 He likewise made many Cloacae or Common-Sewers, to drain the City, and carry the Filth of it into the Tiber; a Work of such vast Charge and La∣bour, that when they were afterwards stopp'd, the Censors spent a Thousand Talents only to clear 'em; a Work likewise so admirable, that Dionysius thinks, that from the Magnificence of these, as well as their Aquaeducts and High-ways, the Grandeur of the Roman Empire appear'd. In the Circus Maximus, that vast Place for Games and Exercises between the Palatine and Aventine Hills, he caus'd Seats to be rais'd for the Spectators, with great Skill and Charge; and like∣wise distinguish'd all their Places according to their several Ranks▪ and Dignities. In the Sabine War he vow'd a Temple to Iupiter, Iuno, and Minerva, if he got the Victory; for that reason afterwards he, with wonderful Cost levelled the Rock on the Capitoline, and form'd a Plat for building it, but liv'd not to go on with it any further; and this was the beginning of the Capitol.

Tarquin had design'd after these things, to have added three Centuries of the Celeres to those three Instituted by Romulus, but was forbidden by Actius Naevius to alter the Constitutions of that King; therefore without creating of new Centuries, he doubled the Number of the former. This Naevius was the most famous Augur that Rome ever knew; and Tarquin one time, to try him, ask'd him, If what he had in his Thought might be done; he answering in the affirmative, Tarquin jeeringly told him, He thought of cutting a Whetstone with a Razor: Naevius ••ad him strike hard, and he cut it through. This much en∣hanc••d the Reputation of Augury, especially of Naevi∣us's Skill therein; but his being suddenly miss'd soon after, was a great Prejudice to Tarquin: For the two Sons of Ancus Marcius, grudging him their Father's Throne, accus••d him to the People of the Death of this Augur; but his Son-in-Law answer'd their Objections, and clear'd him of that Scandal. Mis∣sing their Design, they pretended Repentance, and were easily receiv'd into Favour; but three Years after, they disguised several of their Companions like Shepherds, and appearing in Court, pretended a Quarrel, and demanded Justice of the King. Tarquin appearing, they set upon him, and kill'd him; but were soon caught, and receiv'd their just Reward.

Thus fell Lucius Tarquinius, for distinction surnam'd Priscus, after the last Tarquin had obtain'd the King∣dom, in the Eightieth Year of his Age, after he had Reign'd 38 Years, and done many and great Ser∣vices to the Common-Wealth. The Roman Great∣ness and Magnificence began to appear much more in this Reign than in the former; and this King was the first that ever Triumph'd in a Chariot: Like∣wise the Roman Dominions were much encreas'd in this Reign, by a larger Authority in the Sabines Country, and by some considerable Additions in Hetruria and Latium.

CHAP. VI.

From the Death of Tarquinius Priscus, to the Death of Servius Tullius, the Sixth King of Rome.

Containing the Space of 44 Years.

I. TArquinius Priscus being dead,* 1.62 Servius Tullius his Son-in-law, succeeded him: which Tullius was Son to Ocrisia, a considerable Woman taken Prisoner by Tarquin at Corniculum, a Town in Latium, and given to his Wife Tanaquil; where she was deliver'd of Tullius, surnam'd Servius, in remembrance of her Bondage, her Husband being slain at the taking of the Town. Tullius being an Infant in his Cradle, a Flame of Fire is said to have appear'd and encom∣pass'd his Head; which rais'd great Expectations in Tanaquil, a Woman much esteem'd for such kind of Knowledge. She brought her Husband to so good an Opinion of him, that he both gave him Educa∣tion, and in time made him his Son-in-Law. When the King grew old, he manag'd his Publick Affairs for him both abroad and at home, with that Valour, Prudence, and Integrity, that he gain'd the highest Esteem of all People. Tarquinius having no Sons, but only two Grand-sons, both Infants, Tanaquil much desir'd that Tullius shou'd succeed him, there∣fore she kept his Death private for a while, pretend∣ing he was only dangerously wounded, till Tullius had prevail'd with the People to banish the Marcii. Being thus secure of that Faction, he carry'd out Tarquin as newly dead, to be bury'd; and as Tutor or Guardian to the young Children, executed the

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Office of King; which Tanaquil, out of the Window, had told the People was her Husband's Will, when she feign'd him still alive. The Patritians were much concern••d at this, not knowing how to come to an Election, since they perceiv'd the People wou'd not approve of their Choice, but wou'd be all for Tul∣lius; so they thought it better to let him Reign in an unlawful Manner, that they might ever have a just Pretence against him, than by stirring to procure him a legal Title.

Tullius discovering all their Designs and Practices, immediately assembled the People in the Forum, where appearing with his Mother, Mother-in-Law, the two Children, and all his Kindred, in deep mourning, and all the utmost signs of sorrow, he shew'd the People how sad and lamentable his Condition was, through the Contrivances of the Patritians against him, which he had no otherwise deserv'd than by his good Services to his Country. That they had design'd to recall the Marcii, who had treasonably Murder'd Tarquin, and to expose the Posterity of him whose Mem••ry ••ught to be so precious to 'em, as well as himself, to the same Cruelty: But if it was the Pleasure of the People, he wou'd freely give up all Pretensions; and rather than offend them, undergo the se∣verest Hardships. A great Clamour immediately arose, mix••d with the Prayers and Tears of those who besought him to retain the Government; and some, who were provided before-hand, began to cry out, He was to be chosen King, and the Curiae were to be call'd to the V••te; which thing was instantly resolv'd by the Multitude. He thank••d 'em very heartily for being mindful of the Benefits receiv'd from him, and promi∣sed to pay their Debts, and divide the publick Lands among such as wanted, if they wou'd elect him King; and thereupon he appointed a day for the Assembly. At the Comitia Curiata, he was chosen King by the Votes of 'em all, in spite of all the Opposition of the Senate, who refus'd at last to confirm the Choice, as their Cust••m was.

II. Not long after his Settlement,* 1.63 according to his Promise, he divided the publick Lands among the poorer Sort; and in the Curiata Comitia, preferr'd fifty several Laws concerning Contracts and Injuries. He very much enlarg'd the City, taking in three Hills to the four former, namely, the Quirinal, the Viminal, and the Esquiline; on the latter of which he dwelt himself, and compass'd the whole Seven with a stately Wall: Some say the Walls were never ex∣tended further, tho' vast Suburbs were afterwards ad∣ded. After this, he divided the City into four Parts, and instead of three, made four Tribes, which he call'd by the names of Palatina, Suburana, Collina, and Esquilina. As Romulus, according to their Seats and Communions in Sacrifices, distinguish'd the Peo∣ple into Tribes and Curiae; so Tullius, according to their Estates and Riches, distinguish'd 'em into six Ranks call'd Classes.* 1.64 His principal Design was to know how many were fit to bear Arms, and what Trea∣sure might be supply'd for Wars and other Uses. These Classes were each divided into Centuries (the Word here signifying such a particular Division,* 1.65 and not 100 Per∣sons) which made up 193 in all. The first consisted of such as were worth 110000 Asses, (each answering to obq of our Money) and contain'd 98 Centuries, the Equites or Knights being reckon'd in: The second va∣lu'd at 75000 Asses, containing 22 Centuries, taking in Artificers; the third at 50000 Asses, containing likewise 22 Centuries; the fourth at 25000 Asses, con∣taining 20 Centuries; the fifth at 11000 Asses, con∣taining 30 Centuries; and the sixth consisted of the rest of the poorer Sort and Multitude, excepting Ser∣vants and Slaves, which made up but one Century.

The constant way of levying Men and Money,* 1.66 was, for the future, according to these Centuries, each Century such a quantity; so that the middle Rank having fewer Centuries, and yet more Persons than

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the richer, went to War by Turns, and paid but lit∣tle Tribute; and the poorer Sort scarce bore any Share at all. This seem'd very just to him, that they who were most concern'd shou'd take most Pains, and bear the greatest Charge; the Romans at that time maintaining themselves in the Wars without any Pay from the Publick. But to the richer Sort, who sustain'd most of the Charge and Danger, the King made a sufficient Recompence, by giving 'em much the larger Authority in the Government, which he Politickly brought about this way: Formerly the Matters of the greatest Concern, namely, The Creation of all Magistrates, making or repealing of Laws, and de∣creeing of Peace and War, were all voted in the Comitia Curiata; where every particular and private Person having an equal Vote, the Plebeians being most nume∣rous, had in a manner the whole Power in their Hands. But Tullius, upon these and the like occasions, assembled the People according to their Centuries, which were call'd Comitia Centuriata,* 1.67 where the Ple∣beians must of necessity be out-voted, having little more than the Shadow of Authority; which they, for many Years, were sufficiently satisfy'd withal; either for that they perceived not the Design, or ra∣ther, because they were thereby freed from the great∣est part of the Charges, Troubles, and Dangers of the Publick.

After the Census or Tax, Tullius first instituted the Lustrum to be Celebrated,* 1.68 so call'd à luendo, from Paying. On a certain day after the Valuation or Cen∣sus, he ordain'd all the Citizens to meet in the Cam∣pus Martius, all in Armour, each Man in his proper Class and Century; where, by solemn Sacrifices, the City was Expiated or Lustrated. This great Solemnity was call'd Salitaurilia, or rather Suovetaurilia, because a Hog, a Sheep, and an Ox were there Sacrific'd. These things perform'd, the Lustrum was finish'd, which, because of the continual Change of Mens E∣states,

he order'd shou'd be reiterated every five Years; so that the old and proper Lustrum contain'd five Years compleat, which was as often as this Tax or Valuation, call'd Census, was made; tho' afterwards the Iulian Lustrum contain'd but four. Tullius held the Lustrum four times in his Reign, and at the first were found 84700 free Citizens; but, to encrease their Number, he brought in the Custom of making Slaves Free of the Common-wealth, either for their Money or their Deserts, who being Manumitted, he distributed into the four Tribes of the City. Slaves, as was hinted before, had never any Vote in the Go∣vernment, and these were either made or born so; the former sort were taken in War, thence properly call'd Mancipia;* 1.69 and the latter sort came of Parents who were such, or of the Mother only.

Besides the Division of the City it self, this Prince took an extraordinary Care about the Roman Domi∣nions, dividing the whole Territory into 26 Parts, which he likewise call'd by the name of Tribes; and these he again distinguish'd into their several Pagi, appointing for 'em their respective Officers and Places of Worship, as Numa had done when the Dominions were much smaller. In his way of judging of Con∣troversies, he gave away much of the Kingly Prero∣gative; for whereas the former Princes call'd before themselves all Controversies, and took Cognizance of Crimes committed against private Persons, as well as the Publick, he separated their Causes, making him∣self Judge only of such as respected the Common-wealth, referring the Quarrels of particular Persons to others, to whom he prescrib'd Laws and Rules to go by; and if any Controversie arose between particu∣lar Towns, it was to be decided by the Judgment of others. After he had thus order'd the Common-wealth, he caus'd the Latines to build a Temple to Diana, upon the Aventine-Hill, at which place they shou'd meet and Feast every Year, and so preserve

themselves as one Body Politick in Unity and Con∣cord. To all these things we may add, that he was the first who Coin'd Money in Rome, stamping it with the Image of a Sheep, whence it had the Name of Pecunia,* 1.70 whereas the Romans before this time us'd it in a rude Lump or Mass.

III. At the same time that Tullius was settling and ordering the Affairs of the Common-wealth at home, he was often employ'd in many and conside∣rable Wars abroad: For the Hetrurians looking upon him as an obscure Man, and a private Person, re∣fus'd to pay him Obedience, and renounc'd the League made with his Predecessor Tarquin. He had Wars with 'em for 20 Years successively, overthrew 'em in many Battels, and Triumph'd over 'em three several times; the first time in the Year 182, the second in 186, and the third time in 188. And at last he so weakned and harras'd them, that they were willing to beg Peace of him, which he granted 'em upon the same Terms that Tarquin before had impos'd upon 'em; only from three of the twelve Nations, namely, the Veientes, the Caeretanes, and the Tarquinii, which had been Principals in the Revolt, he took part of their Lands, and divided 'em among such as were lately made free of Rome. At the fi∣nishing of these Wars, he built two Temples, both dedicated to Fortune, one to Fortuna Bona, and the o∣ther to Fortuna Virilis. In the latter end of his Reign he design'd to have laid down his Office, and restor'd absolute Liberty, with the Care of the Common-wealth to the People, and was preparing a Model for that purpose, but liv'd not to perform it; for be∣ing old, and not far from the natural Period of his Life, he was slain by his Daughter and Son-in-Law, after this manner.

Tullius had two Daughters, whom he marry'd to Tarquin's Grandsons, Lucius Tarquinius and Aruns Tar∣quinius.

The first, of a proud tyrannical Nature, had a very modest good Wife; and the last, of a mild sweet Temper, had a haughty wicked Woman. Lu∣cius inrag'd at Tullius for possessing his Grand-Father's Throne, and finding his Brother's Wife of a fiery Temper, and rather more cruel than himself, agreed with her to change Husbands; both promising to di∣spatch their Consorts, which they soon effected, and were marry'd together. After this, they resolv'd the utter Ruine of the King, raising what Factions they cou'd against him, alledging his illegal Title, then claim'd the Crown as Heirs to Tarquin. But Tullius by his great Modesty and prudent Management, de∣feated all their Designs, and came off with great Ho∣nour, both with the Senate and the People; which brought Lucius to a feign'd Repentance on his side, and that produc'd a real Reconciliation on the King's. Lucius, cover'd with this Disguise, took an opportuni∣ty one day, when most of the People were out of the City, to go to the Senate-House, with the Robes and Royal Ensigns as King; and getting together such of the Fathers as were his special Friends, he boldly took Possession of the King's Throne. Tullius unadvised∣ly with a few Followers hastned thither, and going to thrust him out, Lucius threw him down the Stairs. The old Man, hardly recovering his Spirits, was led homewards in great Disorder, when Lucius's Wife coming to see the Event, saluted her Husband King, and advis'd him to send after Tullius, and dispatch him; which was immediately perform'd. In her Pas∣sage home, coming to the Place where the Body lay, weltring in Blood, and as yet almost gasping, her Charioteer stood still, startl'd and amaz'd at the In∣humane Spectacle, not having Room to pass by it: Whereupon she in a Rage threw her Footstool at his Head, and in a barbarous manner forc••d him to drive her over it; the Place which before was call'd Cyprius Vicus, was after this Act call'd Sceleratus.

This was the End of Servius Tullius, a Prince of e∣minent Justice and Moderation, after a prosperous Reign of 44 Years; but the less pity'd upon the Ac∣count of his undue Admission to the Crown, which made most of the Patritians espouse his Successor's part; especially since he was about altering the Go∣vernment, which wou'd have prov'd the Weakning, if not the Ruine of their Authority. He left the Roman Dominions in much the same Condition as they were in the last Reign, only he got a larger Footing in Hetruria.

CHAP. VII.

From the Death of Servius Tullius, to the Banishment of Tarquinius Superbus, the Seventh King of Rome, which caus'd the Dissolution of the Regal State.

Containing the space of 25 Years.

I. LUcius Tarquinius, having barbarously murder'd his Father-in-Law,* 1.71 obtain'd the Kingdom by meer Force and Violence; and by his Tyrannical and Imperious Carriage, soon got the Surname of Superbus, as that of Priscus, for distinction sake, was given to his Grand-Father. He wou'd not permit the King's Body to be publickly interr'd, lest the People shou'd rise and cause some dangerous Distur∣bances, he alledging, That Romulus dy'd without Bu∣rial. He murder'd such as he suspected to be of Tul∣lius's Faction; and fearing the natural Consequences of his Tyranny, he kept a stronger Guard than or∣dinary about his Person. All Controversies whatso∣ever

he decided himself, assisted by his intimate Friends; and executed, banish'd, and fin'd, all at his own Pleasure. He endeavour'd to establish his Tyranny with the more Security, by great Alliances, marrying his Daughter to Octavius Mamilius, the greatest Man among the Latines, being descended from Telegonus the Son of Ulysses by Circe; and by his false Accusations and a cunning Device, caus'd 'em to stone Turnus Herdonius, who had discover'd to 'em his Baseness and Villany. He neither consider'd the Consent of the Senate or People; but much dimi∣nish'd the Authority of the former by the Murder of many of the higher Rank, whose Wealth he seiz'd on for his own use, resolving to chuse no more in their Places, that their Power might decrease in∣sensibly, and in time be worn out.

Among those whom he murder'd for their Estates, Marcus Iunius was one; a most eminent Man among the Romans, descended from the Companions of Ae∣••eas, and marry'd to Tarquina, Daughter to Tarquinius Priscus, by whom he had Lucius Iunius. This Lucius was nobly educated, and had an admirable Wit and Knowledge, with a profound Judgment and Under∣standing; but after Tarquin had privily murder'd his Father and his eldest Brother, the better to save him∣self, and revenge his Father, he counterfeited him∣self a Fool, and thence had the Surname of Brutus. Tarquin thinking his Folly real, despis'd the Man; and having possess'd himself of his Estate, kept him as an Ideot in his House, suffering him to converse with his Children, not out of any Respect as a Kins∣man, but to make 'em Sport by his ridiculous Words and Actions. It hapn'd in the time of a great Pesti∣lence, he sent his two Sons Sextus and Titus to con∣sult the Oracle, and with them Brutus, as a Compani∣on for their Diversion. The Sons were well pleas'd with his Company, and laugh'd very heartily to see him offer a wooden Staff to Apollo, wherein he had

secretly convey'd Gold. The young Men having ex∣ecuted their Father's Commands, enquir'd of the O∣racle, Which of them shou'd be Prince of Rome? It was answer'd, He who first shou'd kiss his Mother; which the Sons misunderstanding, agreed to do it both at their return, and reign jointly together. But Brutus, knowing the meaning of the Oracle, as soon as they arriv'd at Italy, pretended to fall down by chance, and kiss'd the Earth, which is the common Mother of all Men. After this, he ever made it his Business to find Opportunities of ruining the Tyrant, and re∣storing the Liberties of Rome; all which he carry'd on by a profound Secrecy and a wonderful Dissimu∣lation.

II. Tarquin being a Warlike Prince, first march'd a∣gainst the Sabines, who refus'd to pay him Obedience, and soo reduc'd them to Submission; over whom he obtain'd a Triumph.* 1.72 Soon after, he began a War with the Volsci, a People bordering on Latium, which con∣tinu'd with some little Intermissions above 200 Years: From these he took Suessa-Pometia, a conside∣rable City about 26 Miles South-East of Rome, where he found great Spoils and Plunder; and over them he obtain'd a second Triumph. Next he fell upon Gabii,* 1.73 a City of great Note, 10 or 11 Miles East of Rome, which had taken part with Suessa-Pometia: He invested it, but meeting with great Difficulties, he caus'd his eldest Son Sextus to counterfeit Desertion, upon Pretence of barbarous Usage from his Father; who being honourably receiv'd by the Gabines, by his cunning and insinuating Behaviour, got to be their Governour. After some time he sent to his Fa∣ther to know what Measures to take; Tarquin took the Messenger into the Garden, and, in imitation of Thrasybulus the Milesian, cut down the tallest Poppies before his Face, then dismiss'd him without any o∣ther Answer. Sextus, knowing the meaning of all

that, put to death the most principal Citizens, and easily betray'd the Place into his Father's Hands.* 1.74 Af∣ter this, Tarquin made a League with the Aequi, a neighbouring People between the Volsci and the Sa∣bines, and renew'd that with the Hetrurians.

Tarquin, having gain'd great Riches and Spoils from Suessa-Pometia, resolv'd to set about the Temple his Grand-Father had design'd; and when he found some Respite from War, he employ'd a great number of Workmen about it.* 1.75 At their digging to lay the Foundation, a Man's Head was found bleeding a∣fresh, belonging to one Tolus, which gave the Name of CAPITOL to the Building.* 1.76 It was seated upon a high Crag or Rock on Mount Capitoline, which from Romulus's time had been call'd Mons Tarpeius, and before that Saturnius. It was eight Acres in compass, 200 Foot long, and as many broad wanting 15 Foot, its height being equal to its length; a most magni∣ficent Building, dedicated to Iupiter in Chief, but containing three Temples within the same Walls, the middle belonging to Iupiter, and the other two to Iuno and Minerva, all under the same Roof. It had a noble Front, looking towards the South, to the grand Forum, the most frequented part of the whole City. It had also a stately Porch or Gallery, with three Rows of Pillars, each side having a double Row; and to this they ascended by an hundred Steps, with large Spaces between several of 'em. To carry on this great Work, Tarquin employ'd much of the Publick Money and Stock, and likewise the Labour of the Common People; but the Building was not finish'd till two Years after his Banishment.

The Building of the Capitol was not only counted a great Ornament to the City, in respect of Magni∣ficence, but was likewise look'd upon as a very great Blessing upon the account of Religion: And in the same Reign another, as great in their Opinion, hapned likewise to the Romans, which was this. A certain

strange Woman came to the King, offering to fell him nine Books of the Sibylline Oracles.* 1.77 He refu∣sing to buy 'em at her Rate, she departed, and burning three of 'em, return'd, demanding as much for the six remaining. Being laugh'd at for a Mad-Woman, she again departed, and burning half of 'em, return'd with the other three, still asking as much as at first. Tarquin, surpriz'd at the Strangeness of the Thing, immediately sent for the Augurs to know her Meaning; who much blam••d him for not buying the nine, and advis'd him to buy the three at the same Rate. The Woman, after the Sale and Delivery, ad∣vising him to have a special care of 'em, vanish'd, and was never after seen, as Dionysius relates the Story. Tarquin chose two Men out of the Nobility to keep them, to whom he allow'd two Publick Servants; but afterwards, in the time of the Common-wealth, they were kept with the greatest Care imaginable, fifteen of the most eminent Persons of the Nobility being chosen and appointed to keep 'em in a Stone Chest, in a Vault under the Capitol; and these were exempted from all other Burthens both Military and Civil; and for them only it was lawful to look in 'em. These Magistrates from their Number were afterwards call'd Quindecemviri.* 1.78 These Oracles were consulted by the Senate's Decree in times of Sediti∣ons, Plagues, and any Publick Calamities; and were kept here till they perish'd with the burning of the Capitol.

III. The People being so much employ'd for four Years together about the building of the Capitol,* 1.79 be∣gan to make some Complaints; but Tarquin, to sa∣tisfie 'em, but especially to recruit his own Coffers, proclaim••d War against the Rutili, a People joining to the Latines, the Volsci, and the Sea, pretending they had receiv••d and entertain'd some Roman Exiles; and upon that account he invested Ar dea, their Me∣tropolis,

a City 16 Miles South-East of Rome. While he lay before this Place, his Son Sextus, with Tarqui∣nius Collatinus, the Son of Egerius Priscus's Nephew, and some of the Principal Courtiers, were drinking toge∣ther in the Camp; where there hapned a Discourse concerning their Wives, each Man praising his own to a very high Degree, which occasion••d a kind of a Quarrel. Collatinus told 'em, it was in vain to talk, when their Eyes might so soon convince 'em how much his Lucretia excell'd the rest, if they wou'd but immediately put it to a Tryal; whereat they all cry'd, Come on, and being well heated with Wine, they took Horse with∣out Delay, and posted for Rome, From which Place they rod to Collatia to see Lucretia, where coming late at night, they found her, not like the rest of their Wives, spending her Time in Ease and Idleness, but in the midst of her Maids hard at Work. Her Good∣ness and Modesty, as well as her Shape and Beauty, so charm'd 'em all, that they unanimously gave her the Preferrence. Here Collatinus made a noble En∣tertainment for his Guests, and the next Day retur∣ned with 'em to the Camp.

Sextus, now inslam'd by Lucretia's Beauty, and the more by the Reputation of her fam'd Chastity, was resolv'd to enjoy her up••n any Terms; therefore, within few days after, he went privately with one Servant to Co••lacia, where he was kindly entertain••d by her, and without any suspicion, lodg'd in the House. At Midnight he found Means to convey himself into her Bed-Chamber, approach'd her Bed-side with his drawn Sword, and rudely laying his Hand on her Breast, threatned her with present Death if she offer'd to stir or speak. The poor Lady, affrighted out of her Sleep, and seeing Death so nigh, was in the greatest confusion imaginable; but Sextus at first, with all the Prayers and Intreaties, told her the Violence of his Passion, withal, endeavour'd to corrupt her with the glittering Promises of Empire and a Crown, but all

in vain. At last he told her, If she wou'd not yield, he wou'd first kill her, then lay his own Slave dead by her side, and report it was for surprizing her in Adultery with him; by which means he obtain'd his End; and in the Morning he departed. Lucretia, inrag'd at this bar∣barous Usage, immediately sent for her Father from Rome, and her Husband from the Camp; desiring them to bring with them some particular and special Friends, for a most dreadful Mischief, and that of the vastest Importance, had befall'n her. With her Father Lucretius came Publius Valerius, and with her Hus∣band, Lucius Iunius Brutus, formerly mention'd; who finding her in her Chamber, in a most lamentable and desperate Condition, she told 'em the whole Matter, and rejecting all Thoughts of Comfort, she most solemnly adjur••d 'em all with the most power∣ful Perswasions imaginable, To revenge her Cause to the utmost, and immediately with her Knife stabb'd her self to the Heart, as the truest Instance she cou'd give of her real Chastity.

The whole Company were stricken with a Mixture of Sadness and Amazement at the Greatness, as well as Strangeness of the Act; but while they were la∣menting over the dead Body, Brutus catching at this Opportunity, now threw off his long Disguise, giving them to understand, How far different he was from the Person they always took him for; and further shew'd 'em most manifest Tokens of the Greatness of his Spirit, and the Depth of his Policy. He told 'em, That Tears and Lamentations cou'd never he heard, whilst Vengeance cry'd so loud; thereupon, in a great Rage, going to the Body, and drawing the bloody Knife from out the Wound, swore by Mars, and all the Celestial Powers above, Utterly to exterminate Tarquin with his Impious Wife and Fr••ge••y, to prosecute them and all their Friends with the utmost Rage of Fire and Sword, and never after to suffer the Tarquins or any other to reign in Rome. Then he deliver••d the Knife to the rest, who, all

wondring at so extraordinary a Change in Brutus, swore as he had done; and turning their effeminate Sorrow to a masculine Fury, they resolv'd to follow his Instructions, and extirpate Kingly Government. Brutus, as soon as he could, procur'd the Gates of the City to be shut, that all might be kept secret from Tarquin, till such time as the People might be assembled, the dead Body expos'd, and a publick De∣cree for Tarquin's Banishment procur'd.

The Senate being assembled, all shew'd their Wil∣lingness to banish Tarquin, but at first had very diffe∣rent Opinions concerning the new Modelling of the Government, which probably might make it a tedi∣ous Business. Brutus represented to 'em the absolute Necessity of a quick Dispatch, and immediately pre∣scrib'd 'em a Form of Government; shewing them, That before Tarquin's violating his own and his Prede∣cessors Oath, Rome had been happy and famous, both for her Acts abroad, and her Constitutions at home; and that the Regal Power had at last been dangerous, and al∣most destructive to the Security of the State, and the Safety of the People; and therefore was not to be trusted in one Man's hands, but two were to be chosen, who shou'd govern with equal Authority and Command. Then, because Names alone were offensive to many People, he thought that of Kingdom was to be left off, and the other of Common∣wealth to be assum'd; and, instead of the Title of King and Monarch, some more Modest and Popular was to be invented; as likewise were some of their Ensigns to be laid aside, and others to be retain'd. That the main and only thing to keep these Magistrates in Order, was, to prevent their perpetual Power; and if they were Annual, after the manner of Athens, each might learn both how to be Sub∣ject, and how to Govern. Lastly, That the Name of King might not be wholly lost, the Title was to be given to one who shou'd be call'd Rex Sacrorum,* 1.80 who having this Honour for Life, and Immunity from Warfare, shou'd only concern himself with those Religious Rites which the King had Charge of

before. The Particulars of this Speech were all ap∣prov'd of by the Senate, who immediately issued out a Decree for the King's Banishment in this Form, That the Tarquinii should be banish'd with all their Off∣spring, and that it should be Capital for any one to speak or act for their Return.

Brutus having procur'd thus much, the Comitia were immediately a••sembled by him, and the Body of Lu∣cretia, all dismally bloody, brought, and set there for a pittiful Spectacle to all the People. There Brutus, to their great Surprise, discover'd himself, telling 'em the Reasons of his long and strange Dissimulation, and the great Occasion of their present Meeting, withal shewing 'em the Senate's Decree. Then he fell to enumerating all the several Crimes and Villa∣nies of Tarquin, particularly, That he had Poyson'd his own Brother, Strangled his Wife, Murder'd his lawful So∣vereign, and fill'd Di••ches and Common-Sewers with the B••dies of the Nobility: That he came to the Kingdom on Usurper, and continu'd in it a Tyrant; being treacherous to his greatest Friends, and barbarous to all Mankind: That his three Sons were of a Temper as Insolent and Tyrannical as himself, especially the Eldest, of which they now had a s••d and doleful Instance before their Eyes. That since the King was absent, and the Patricians all resolv'd, neither Men, M••ney, nor Foreign Aid shou'd be wanting to 'em, had they but Courage for the Enterprize. Urging withal, that it was a shame to think of Commanding the Volsci, Sabines, and Nations abroad, and be Slaves to others at home; and to maintain so many Wars to serve the ambiti∣ous Ends of a Tyrant, and not undertake one for their own Liberty. And that as for the Army at the Siege, their own Interest in all Respects w••u'd oblige 'em to joyn in what ever was agreed upon in the City.

The Multitude, transported with the Hopes of Li∣berty, and charm'd with the Person and graceful Behaviour of Brutus, with loud Acclamations gave their Assent, and immediately call'd for Arms. Lu∣cretius

was appointed Inter-rex for holding the Comitia, who strait adjourn••d it to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Campus Martius, where Magistrates were elected in their Armour. There he nominated Brutus and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, to exercise the Regal Power, as they before had agreed on among them∣selves, and the Centuries confirm••d 'em by their Suf∣frages. In the mean time, Tarquin having heard something of these Transactions, came riding in all haste to the City, with his Sons, and some of ••is most trusty Friends, to prevent the Mischiefs that threatned him; but finding the Gates fast shut, and the Walls full of Armed Men, in great Grief he return••d to the Camp. But Brutus foreseeing his sudden Coming, had industriously got before him to the Army another Way, and acquainted them with the Decree both of Senate and People, pressing 'em hard to a Revolt. Immediately their Suffrages were call'd over accord∣ing to their Centuries, and they unanimously agreed to do exactly as their Friends in the City had done; so that when Tarquin return••d, they refus'd to admit him. Thus frustrated of his Hopes, he went to Ga∣bii, or to Caere in Hetruria, now Grey-headed, having reign'd 25 Years.* 1.81 Herminius and Horatius, Chief Com∣manders of the Army, made a Truce with the Ene∣my for 15 Years, and raising the Siege before Ardea, return'd to Rome with all their Forces.

IV. Such was the End of the Regal State of Rome, 245 Years after the Building of the City, in the first Year of the 68th. Olympiad, A. M. 3496, 31 Years after the Ruine of the Babylonian Empire, and the setting up of the Persian, 179 before the beginning of the Macedonian, and 507 before our Saviour Christ, occasion'd by a Man who knew neither how to go∣vern according to the Laws, nor yet to reign against them. The Roman Dominions now contain'd most of Old Latium, with the greatest part of the Sabines Country, a considerable part of Hetruria, particu∣larly

of the Veientes, Caeretanes, and Tarquinii, besides some small Parts of the Volsci and Aequi; being much about 40 Miles long and 30 broad; a Spot of Ground not so large by a fourth part as either the Dukedoms of Modena, Parma, or Mantua, and not much larger than the Territory of the Commonwealth of Luca: so that this was rightly term'd by Historians, the Infancy of Rome, especially since most of these Parts were both able and ready to Revolt upon every little Occasion, as the Romans often found afterwards; so that it cost 'em many Years trouble, and many hazardous Wars before they cou'd wholly subdue 'em, and much enlarge their Dominions.

If we look upon the City it self at this time, we may find it encreased after a far greater Proportion than formerly, and its large Extent, its numerous Inhabitants, and its magnificent Structures, were happy Fore-runners of its future Grandeur and Em∣pire. And these, together with the wise Instituti∣ons of its Prince, and the great Prudence and Gra∣vity of its Senate, were the main Supporters and Preservers of it, in the midst of so many envious Neighbours and powerful Enemies; tho' indeed the Inhabitants themselves were an extream rough and unpolish'd People, little acquainted with Know∣ledge and Learning, and far unlike their Successors in Skill and Conduct: Their Engagements were more like so many Tumults than real Battels, where Ob∣stinacy in Fighting generally supply'd the place of Discipline in War; only they had the good Fortune to deal with Neighbours who had more Barbarity and Ignorance than themselves. In short, what may truly be affirm'd of the old Romans, is, they were a People of most extraordinary Courage and Fierceness, a People of prodigious Hardiness and Austerity of Life, a People of indefatigable Industry, and wonderful Lo∣vers of their Country; and from these main Springs afterwards proceeded many great and noble Actions.

Before the Conclusion of this First Book, to make the Roman History as clear and intelligible as possible, it may be convenient to give a Hint of the several Countries the Romans afterwards became Masters of. First Gaul, which was then inhabited by an uncivi∣liz'd, tho' a Warlike People, was broken and divided into a great number of petty Governments. Spain and Germany was much in the same Condition, and Britain not much better, as likewise was Dacia and Illyricum. Greece was in a most flourishing wealthy Condition, under several Monarchs of Renown, and powerful Common-wealths, but not long after be∣came subject to the Macedonian Empire. Asia Minor was almost in the same Condition, then subjected to the Persian, and next to the Macedonian Empires, but at last partly freed from the latter. Armenia was a considerable Monarchy. Syria, Chaldea, Assyria, and Mesopotamia, were all powerful States, but successive∣ly subject to the Persian and Macedonian Empires, the first of which prov'd a separate Kingdom. Iudaea was a small but noble Kingdom. Egypt was also a flou∣rishing Kingdom, subject to its own Kings. Africa was a powerful and growing Common-wealth, who had Sicily in a great measure. As for Italy it self, that was divided among many petty Nations and People, as was observ'd in the beginning.

The End of the First Book.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Old 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.2

  Latini.
• * 1.3

  Iupiter Indiges.
• * 1.4

  Iulii.
• * 1.5

  Tiber.
• * 1.6

  Aventine.
• * 1.7

  New La∣tium.
• * 1.8

  A. M. 3209.
• * 1.9

  Manipula∣res.
• * 1.10

  A. M. 3251.
• * 1.11

  Pomaerium,
• * 1.12

  U. C. 1. King.
• * 1.13

  Tribe. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.14

  Decuria.
• * 1.15

  Comiti•• Curiata.
• * 1.16

  Patritians. Plebeians.
• * 1.17

  Patrons. Clients.
• * 1.18

  Senate.
• * 1.19

  Patres Conscripti.
• * 1.20

  Presectus V••bis.
• * 1.21

  Celeres.
• * 1.22

  Tribunus Celerum.
• * 1.23

  Lictors.
• * 1.24

  U. C. 4.
• * 1.25

  Opi••a Spolia.
• * 1.26

  Iupiter Feretrius.
• * 1.27

  U. C. 6.
• * 1.28

  U. C. 12.
• * 1.29

  Quirites.
• * 1.30

  Legions.
• * 1.31

  U. C. 18.
• * 1.32

  U. C. 21.
• * 1.33

  Nundin••.
• * 1.34

  Quirinus.
• * 1.35

  U. C. 38.
• * 1.36

  Interrex.
• * 1.37

  U. C. 40.
• * 1.38

  Ianus.
• * 1.39

  Pontifices.
• * 1.40

  Vestal Vir∣gins.
• * 1.41

  Salii. Feciales.
• * 1.42

  Pagus.
• * 1.43

  Mercedo∣nius.
• * 1.44

  The Months.
• * 1.45

  U. C. 82.
• * 1.46

  U. C. 41.
• * 1.47

  Duumviri.
• * 1.48

  U. C. 85.
• * 1.49

  U. C. 88.
• * 1.50

  U. C. 115.
• * 1.51

  U. C. 116.
• * 1.52

  Feciales.
• * 1.53

  U. C. 117.
• * 1.54

  U. C. 120.
• * 1.55

  U. C. 127.
• * 1.56

  U. C. 138.
• * 1.57

  Patres mi∣norum Gen∣tium.
• * 1.58

  U. C. 139.
• * 1.59

  U. C. 143.
• * 1.60

  U. C. 153.
• * 1.61

  Cloacae.
• * 1.62

  U. C. 176.
• * 1.63

  U. C. 177.
• * 1.64

  Classes.
• * 1.65

  Centuries.
• * 1.66

  Censi.
• * 1.67

  Comitia Centuriata.
• * 1.68

  Lustrum. U. C. 187.
• * 1.69

  Mancipia.
• * 1.70

  Pecunia.
• * 1.71

  U. C. 220.
• * 1.72

  U. C. 223.
• * 1.73

  U. C. 225.
• * 1.74

  U. C. 232.
• * 1.75

  U. C. 240.
• * 1.76

  Capitol.
• * 1.77

  Sibyl's Books.
• * 1.78

  Quinde∣cemviri.
• * 1.79

  U. C. 244.
• * 1.80

  Rex Sacro∣rum.
• * 1.81

  U. C. 245.