The life of the emperour Theodosius the Great written originally in French by the famous Abbot Flechier ... ; Englished by Mr. Francis Manning.

The CONTENTS of the First BOOK.

I. PReface. II. The Birth and Education of Theo∣dosius. III. Changes in the Empire. IV. Election of Valentinian. V. Valens associated to the Empire. VI. State of the Empire. VII. State of Religion. VIII. England is ravaged by the Bar∣barians. IX. Theodosius the Father is sent thither, takes his Son with him, defeats the Enemy. X. Theo∣dosius the Son signalizes himself in this War. XI. Theodosius the Father discovers a Conspiracy. XII. Revolt of Firmus in Africa. XIII. Theodosius the Father is sent into Africa with his Son against the Rebels. XIV. He treats with Firmus. XV. He defeats the Rebels in two Battels. XVI. He makes a Treaty with Firmus. XVII. He re establisheth the City of Caesarea. XVIII. He punishes the Deserters. XIX. He finds himself engaged in the Mountains. XX. He happily escapes the danger he was in. XXI. Theodosius the Son is sent to Court. XXII. Valen∣tinian associates his Son Gratian to the Empire. XXIII. Expedition of Valentinian against the Germans. Theodosius the Son has Orders to follow him. XXIV. Irruption of the Quades, and the Subject. XXV. Theodosius the Son is made Governor of Maesia. XXVI. Theodosius the Father pursues Firmus. XXVII. He declares War against the Isaflians. XXVIII. Battel a∣gainst Igmazen King of the Isaflians. XXIX. Igmazen sues to Theodosius for Peace. XXX. Imprisonment

of Firmus, his Death; End of the African Wars. XXXI. Theodosius makes Peace with the Isaflians. XXXII. Valentinian's Expedition against the Quades. XXXIII. Embassy of the Quades. Death of Valen∣tinian. XXXIV. Divers reasonings upon the death of Valentinian. XXXV. The part that Valenti∣nian had in the Election of St. Ambrose. XXXVI. Valentinian the younger is made Emperor. XXXVII. The cause of the disgrace of the two Theodosius's. XXXVIII. Enterprizes against the Emperor Valens. XXXIX. Magical Consultation. XL. The Answer. XLI. Theodorus is seized, and condemned to dye. XLII. Persecution of Philosophers, and others. XLIII. Valens orders the destruction of several persons whose names begin by Theod. XLIV. Subjects of Jealousy against Theodosius the Father. He is condemned to dye. XLV. Exile of Theodosius the Son. XLVI. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Theodosius into Spain. XLVII. Origi∣nal, Progress, Division and Religion of the Goths. XLVIII. Irruptions of the Huns. XLIX. The Goths chased by the Huns. L. The Goths sue for a Retreat into Thrace. LI. The Goths are received by Lupicin. LII. The Goths revolt, and vanquish Lupicin. LIII. Siege of Adrianople. LIV. Valens persecutes the Catholicks. Themistius pacifies him. LV. War of the Sarazens against the Romans. LVI. The Per∣sians declare War. LVII. Valens sends to Gratian for Succor, and concludes a Peace with the Sarazens and Persians. LVIII. News of the Battel, and Re∣treat of Trajan and Ricomer. LIX. Gratian marches to the Relief of his Ʋncle. LX. Famous Victory of Gratian over the Germans. LXI. Generous Answer of Trajan. LXII. Valens arrives at Constanti∣nople. He is murmur'd against. He departs. LXIII. Prudence of Fritigern King of the Goths. LXIV. Valens i•• ill advised. He deliberates whether he shall

[An. 395] give Battel. LXV. Fritigern amuses the Emperor. LXVI. Valens marches to the Enemy. Fritigern makes new Propositions. LXVII. The Armies engage. The Right Wing of the Romans disorder'd. LXVIII. The Left Wing defends it self valiantly. LXIX. En∣tire Defeat of the Romans. LXX. Valens saves himself. He is wounded, and burnt alive in a house. LXXI. Great loss of the Romans. Gratian stops at Sirmium. LXXII. Reflections of Gratian. LXXIII Re-establishment of the exiled Bishops. LXXIV▪ Gratian calls home Theodosius. LXXV. Occupa∣tions of Theodosius during his Exile. LXXVI. Di vers Enterprizes of the Goths. LXXVII. Th Goths beaten by the Sarazens before Constantinople LXXVIII. St. Ascole defends Thessalonica by his Prayers. LXXIX. Horrible Massacre of the Goths in the East. LXXX. Theodosius arrives at Sir mium. LXXXI. Theodosius defeats the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 LXXXII. Theodosius's Dream. LXXXIII. Gratian is resolved to chuse a Collegue. LXXXIV. Theo∣dosius destined Emperor. LXXXV. Ausonius i•• made Consul. LXXXVI▪ Victory of Theodosius confirmed.

(Book 1)

THE LIFE OF Theodosius the Great. BOOK I. (Book 1)

II. THE Empire began to fall from that State of Grandeur and Power wherein Constantine had fixed it by his Piety and victorious Arms. Con∣stantius and Constance, two of his Sons, govern∣ed one the East, the other the West; but as they enjoyed not the great qualities of their Fa∣ther, so were they neither beloved of their Subjects, nor feared of their Enemies like him; and they had much ado to sustain a part of that burden, which he himself had born with so much glory.

It was about the ninth year of their Reign, when Theodosius was born at Italica, a little City of Spain, upon the banks of the River Betis. He was of a very Noble Family, and descend∣ed from the race of Trajan, whom he was al∣ways

very desirous to resemble. His Father's name was Theodosius, and his Mother Thermantia, both endowed with all the vertues that were agreeable to their Sex. He soon made appear an admirable nature, and he was educated with abundance of care. He had for his Tutor, one Anatolius, a learned man, that despised Riches, but forgot nothing for his advancement to Ho∣nors. This Philosopher taught him the first principles of humane Sciences; and foreseeing that they would soon rob him of his Scholar to send him to the War, he made haste to frame his Genius, and rendered him in a little time ca∣pable to judge of the merit and works of learned men. He made it his principal busi∣ness to inspire him with good and generous Sentiments, by observing to him in History those Examples, which he ought to pur••••e; and gave him the first impressions of honour and probity, which since ruled all the actions of his Life. Scarce was Theodosius past his Infancy, but his Father, who by his valor and his pru∣dence was advanced to the chief employments of war, resolved to take him along with him to the first expedition, that should be attempted against the Barbarians.

III. In the mean while the Empire in a little space of time had undergone several revolutions! Constance had miserably perished by the treache∣ry of the Tyrant Magnentius: Constantius his Brother was dead in Cilicia, vexed at the ill success of those wars he had as ill sustained a∣gainst the Persians. Julian his Successor being inconsiderately engaged in the conquest of Persia,

had been killed in battel. And Jovian, a valiant and religious Prince, after having reigned eight months, came to dye suddenly in his bed, be∣ing stifled with the smoke of Coals, which had been kindled in his Chamber, in order to make it dry.

IV. The Troops, which were then in Bithy∣nia, advanced as far as Nicaea, and without giv∣ing leisure to pretenders to make their factions, the Army assembled to elect a new Emperor Valentinian was proposed; and altho he was ab∣sent, and there was some reason to fear his au∣stere and inflexible humor, he was notwith∣standing unanimously chosen. He was born at Cibalis in Pannonia.

Gratian his Father had raised himself by his vertue above his birth, and of a simple Soldier was become General of the Roman Armies. It is reported that he was so strong, that five men * 1.1could not force out of his hands a Cord, which he held tied fast. It was by that means he came to make himself known to the Emperors. Be it as it will, he fell as suddenly as he was raised; and the same Constantius who had loaded him with honors and possessions, deprived him there∣of, being much disturbed that he had received in his house the Tyrant Magnentius.

Valentinian having found the fortune of his Fa∣ther ruined, was obliged to labor himself to the advancement of his own. He passed through all the degrees of warfare, and acquitted himself of those employments which he had, with so much courage and prudence, that the Soldiers saw him prosper without envy, and were accu∣stomed

to say of him, that he deserved much more than was conferred upon him. Jovian had made him Captain of his second Troop of Guards, and left him at Ancyra, the chief City of Galatia, to command there.

It was there they deputed to him, to give him advice of his election. He departed forthwith, and came to the Army the 24^th of February. He would not appear the next day, because 'twas the day of Leap-year, which an ancient superstition made pass for unlucky amongst the Romans. The day following, the Army being assembled in the morning, he came to the Camp, and was conducted with ceremony to the Tribunal, which was prepared for him. He was invested with the Purple and the Crown, and proclaimed Emperor in the accustomed forms. After he had enjoyed for some time the pleasure of the military ac∣clamations, he was for making an Oration to the Army: but scarce had he opened his mouth, but there arose a great noise amongst the Troops. Whether it was a Cabal of discon∣tented Officers, or nothing else but a whimsey of the Soldiers, they cried from all parts, he must have a Collegue. It seemed either that they repented of the choice they had made, or that they had a mind to impose Laws upon him, whom they had elected for Master.

Valentinian observed this tumult without dis∣order; and regarding first on one side, then on the other with a severe and threatning behavior, he made a sign with his hand, that he would speak.

As soon as there was a silence made, he turn'd himself towards those that had appeared to him the most warm; and after he had called them mutinous and seditious, Companions, said he to them, to give me the Empire was at your Disposal; but since I have received it, it depends upon me to judge of the necessities of the State, and 'tis your busi∣ness to obey me. He pronounced these words with so much assurance, that all the World was silent, and remained in that respect which was due. Then smoothing himself a little, he gave the Army thanks for the honour they had done him, and assured them that he would chuse a Collegue, when it should be convenient; but that he would precipitate nothing in an affair of that importance. He descended from his Tribunal, encircled with Eagles and Colours; and went quite through the Camp, marching fiercely in the midst of a crowd of Officers, who ranked themselves about him, the better to court his favour.

Some days after, whether it was to accom∣modate himself to the necessity of Affairs, or that he had resolved to satisfy the Troops; or that he had a mind to succeed more dexterously in the design he had to associate his Brother Valens to the Empire, he assembled together the chief Officers of the Army, and asked their advice concerning the Choice he was about to make. Degalaïfe, General of the Horse, an∣swered him with freedom: If you love but your own Family, my Lord, you have a Brother; If you * 1.2love the State, chuse one that is able to assist you in the government of it. The Emperor was touched at this Answer, but he dissembled his displea∣sure,

and resolved to do himself by Authority, what the Soldiers would hardly have done by Complaisance.

V. He parted then from Nicaea in haste, and ar∣rived the first of March at Nicomedia, where he made Valens Great Master of the Horse, and General of the Armies of the Empire. He raised him to these Dignities, in order to dis∣pose him insensibly to ascend to a greater. But being come to Constantinople, he kept no longer any measure. He carried his Brother into the Suburbs of the City, and without troubling himself about the consent of the Army, or the forms of Election, he made him to be pro∣claimed Augustus, without having before decla∣red him Caesar; which thing had not as yet been practised. He put the Diadem upon his Head, and invested him with the Imperial Robes; and, to conclude the Ceremony, he carried him in the same Chariot along with him. Valens had not one quality that might attract him the esteem, or friendship of the People; for be∣sides his swarthy Complexion, his Eyes sta∣ring, and something of rude and despicable in all his person, he had an irregular mind, which joined to an insupportable presumption, an ex∣tream ignorance: so his Election was no further approved, than as they durst not oppose it. Va∣lentinian himself did not dissemble his desects, and held him in so great a dependance, that one would have said he had made him his Lieu∣tenant, and not his Collegue.

VI. The Empire was then in a deplorable condition: it seemed that all the barbarous

Nations were combined together at the same time, to ransack and destroy all the Provinces of their Neighborhood. The Germans made a horrid waste in Gaul. The Sarmats and the Quades were entred into Pannonia. The Picts * 1.3and Saxons disturbed the Peace of England. The Moors made Incursions in Africk. The Goths came to pillage Thrace, even to the very Pre∣cincts of Constantinople. The King of Persia re∣newed his ancient Pretensions upon Armenia, and threatned to break the Peace he had but just concluded with the Romans. It was to be feared too, lest these disorders should continue under two Emperors, whereof one had not sweetness enough to gain the People, the other neither capacity enough, nor resolution, to bring affairs to an end with his Enemies.

VII. The business of Religion was as much embroiled, as that of the Empire. The Reign of Constantius had been a time of continual persecution against the Church. This Prince had spared no endeavors to extirpate the Faith of the Nicaean Council, and to establish the He∣resy of Arrius. Jovian was not content to per∣secute the Church, he had used all his efforts to destroy it; and after having solemnly abjured the Faith of Jesus Christ, wherein he had lived near twenty years, he undertook to restore the adoration of false Gods, and to renew the Pa∣gan Superstitions. Jovian his Successor being desirous to remedy these disorders, protested to the Soldiers, who chose him Emperor, That he would not accept of the Empire, but upon condition they would all prove Christians like him; and they

unanimously cryed, They either were, or did design to be. A little while after he recalled the exil'd Bishops, and favoured the Catholicks; blaming the rest, but yet referring them to the judgment of their Conscience, without being willing to enter into the bottom of different Ecclesi∣asticks.

It was believed that Valentinian would carry his Piety farther, as well because he was natu∣rally hot, and went to his ends without much conduct; as also, that he had formerly confes∣sed the Faith of Jesus Christ with abundance of zeal. The business was thus; Julian, after his Apostasy, went one day to the Temple of Fortune to offer Sacrifices there, according to his usual custom. He was accompanied with a crowd of Courtiers, whereof the greatest part disposed themselves, through Policy, to the Re∣ligion of the Prince. Valentinian marched be∣hind him in the quality of Captain of his Guards. As they were upon entring the Tem∣ple, one of the Ministers of the Sacrifice, whose business was to attend them there, with an intent to purify them, cast water upon them which was consecrated to Idols. The Empe∣ror, and those of his Retinue, received the Ce∣remony with respect. But Valentinian being sensible of some drops of this water upon his left hand, and discerning more upon his cloaths, struck the Man rudely that came to throw it, in presence of the Emperor, then shook his hand, and tore off that part of his garment which had been sprinkled. Julian, offended at the in∣jury done to his Gods and him, expelled him his Court, and banished him to Melisina in Ar∣menia.

His Brother Valens follewed him, pre∣ferring rather to be degraded from his Arms, and to renounce his Fortune, than to act con∣trary to his Faith.

The remembrance of this bold Confession filled not a few with hopes, that the two Bro∣thers would highly re-establish Religion. But they were deceived herein; for Valentinian was more remiss thereupon than could be imagined, and protected the Catholicks without disturb∣ing the Arrians. Valens on the other side so far abandoned himself to the Arrians, that he op∣pressed the Catholicks.

Such was the disposition of the Empire, when the two Emperors divided it amongst themselves. Valentinian chose the Western Pro∣vinces with all Illyrium, and left those of the East to his Brother. They came together as far as Naisse, where they shared the Armies, and the chief Commanders, and at last parted at Sirmium, the one for Milan, the other to return to Constantinople.

VIII. Valentinian immediately applied him∣self to examine the condition of those Provin∣ces that lay most exposed to the Insults of Bar∣barians. He passed into Gaul, and fought the Ger∣mans, who had made an Incursion therein with a great Army. After their defeat, he departed from Amiens to go to Treves. There he was in hopes to enjoy in peace the advantage of his late Victory, when he received advice from several places, that all England was ransack'd and wasted by the Enemy; that the French and Saxons had made a descent therein on that side

nearest Gaul; that the Picts and Scots made a destruction to the very heart of the Country; that they had killed the Governor, and surpri∣zed the General of the Army; and that if things were not suddenly remedied, the Empire would infallibly lose one of its fairest Pro∣vinces.

IX. This News astonished the Emperor, and occasioned to him great disturbances. He com∣manded Theodosius, the Father of him whose History we write, to pass into that Island with Troops that were advanced that way, judging him alone capable of restoring to a better state an Affair which appeared desperate. Theodosius departed in haste, and took his Son with him, that he might learn the Trade of War. He rende vouz d at Bologne the Army that was de∣stined for him, and crossing the Sea with an as∣surance, which seemed to foretel the Event, he advanced towards London, and searched for the Enemies to give them Battel. He routed se∣veral of their Parties which he found rambling through the Country. He took away their Men, their Cattel, and all the rest of the Booty which they drag'd along, and made a Declara∣tion in all places round about, that every one should come to see and repossess his own, re∣serving but a little part of the Booty for those Soldiers who were most fatigued. His chiefest care was still to ease the People, and his first Instructions to his Son were Examples of Hu∣manity and Justice; necessary Vertues, but rare∣ly known to Men of War. After these first Successes, he entred London, and encouraged

the City, who already acknowledged him for her Deliverer.

As he had to do with Enemies who disper∣sed themselves, and rallied at all moments to surprize him; he resolved to baffle them at their own game, and to weaken them by little Skirmishes, being unable to engage them to a Fight. Whereupon he took the Field, posses∣sed himself of advantageous Posts, divided his Army into several Bodies, and falling without delay upon one or t'other of these Barbarians, who had their separate Interests, and who came rather with a design to pillage than to fight, he defeated them entirely, and established securi∣ty in City and Country. In all these Encoun∣ters he made appear as much of Valor, as Dis∣cretion; * 1.4and 'tis reported of him, that he never commanded his Soldiers to an Attempt, but he first gave himself for an Example.

X. Theodosius shewed himself a worthy Son of this renowned Captain, and afforded in these first occasions, marks of his future great∣ness. Maximus, by birth an English man, who took a pride in boasting of his Descent from the Race of Constantine, served at the same time in the same Army. These two young Men, who were one day to dispute between them the Empire of the World, came to know one another, and signalized themselves by Emula∣tion in this Expedition. They were almost of the same age, their spirits, their courage were alike; and both enjoyed the same great passion to exalt themselves by way of Arms; but they were different as to manners. Theodosius was

free, courteous, and generous; Maximus de∣ceitful, morose, and jealous of the desert and reputation of another. The one was brave by vertue, the other so by fierceness; the one pre∣tended to no more than the glory of serving Emperors, the other would gladly have con∣sented to usurp their place.

XI. Scarce was this War concluded, but a Conspiracy was found of no less danger. The Heads of which were arrested, and condemned to death. But it was not judged convenient to put them to the question, lest there should be too many Accomplices to punish, or their de∣spair should revive those Troubles, which were but just appeased. After which, Theodosius re∣turned to the Court of Valentinian, and present∣ed to him his Son, who had been the Compa∣nion of his Labours. It was there that this young Lord made himself known to Prince Gratian, who, altho' a very Child, was already much inclined to favour Vertue and De∣sert.

XII. The Joy which was entertained for the happy Success of the English Affairs, was soon disturbed, by the News which was received of an Insurrection of a part of Africk Firmus, one of the chief Lords of the Country, was Captain of the Rebellion. He was accus'd for having caused the Assassination of one of his Brothers. The Roman Governor of the Pro∣vince had attempted to destroy him; he sup∣ported himself by his Friends, and Reputation. They wrote to the Court, the one his Accusa∣tions

and Complaints, the other his Justifica∣tions. Valentinian was of a humor severe enough; but there were some convenient moments, when he suffered himself to be easily wrought upon. In the greatest necessities of Affairs he had been careful to ease the People, but not so vigilant upon those, that governed them: and altho' he was, of his own temper, inexorable for the slenderest Faults, yet he would not so much as hear Complaints relating to his Offi∣cers; whether it was that he thought to hurt his own Authority by lessening theirs, even when they abused it; or else, that according to his Politicks, it was necessary to treat the People with an extream Rigor.

XIII. This was the occasion of the Revolt of Firmus. He had Advice, that they had sup∣pressed his Letters at Court; that those of his Enemy were lookt upon; that the Ministers were won, and the Prince prepossessed. As he saw himself upon the point of being over∣whelmed, he had recourse to Arms. He raised the People, that were even impatient at the Violences and Rapines of their Governor, took on himself the Crown, and was proclaimed King. He took the Field forthwith, consumed all that made resistance, surprized the City of Caesarea, which he abandoned to his Troops, (lest Fire and Sword should be omitted) and ••ngross'd his Army with a great number of Moors, who came in multitudes to fight under his Banner. Theodosius had Orders to depart with his Son in haste, in order to oppose the Rebels. He embarked with the Troops that

were designed him, and descended upon the Coast of Africk. There having met the Go∣vernor of the Province, he learnt of him the posture of Affairs; and after having softly re∣proached him for the Disturbances he had cau∣sed, he sent him to give Orders for the security of Places, and to visit the Garrisons. In the mean time he advanced as far as the City of Setifi, where he sent to Firmus to enjoin him to lay down his Arms, and to return to his Duty, and that he should take his choice either of Peace, or War. Whilst he expected his reso∣lution, he considered how to manage his Troops, who were not accustomed to the heats of those Climats, and to prevent the Tyrant, who was no less formidable by his Artifice and Cunning, than for his Arms and Force.

XIV. Firmus was at present uncertain of the Choice he was to make. A little while after he sent Deputies to Theodosius, to represent to him, that he had taken up Arms through Ne∣cessity, and not through Ambition; that he aimed not at the Empire, but a particular Ene∣my, who abused the Emperor's Authority; that he had not pretended to revolt, but to defend himself; that he might have Justice done him, or at least his Life preserved, and he would abandon his Resentments, and disband his Ar∣my. Theodosius promised him his Pardon, if his return was cordial and sincere, and ordered him to send Hostages. In the mean time he visited the Coast, made his Legions assemble, joined to them some Troops of the Country, and commanded all his Officers to observe an exact

Discipline, saying, That the Roman Soldiers ought not to subsist but upon the Expence of their Enemies, and that they were no better than Rebels, when they incommoded the Citizens: which attracted to him the affection of the People.

Firmus was of a Family that was numerous and powerful, by reason of the Lands which it possessed, and by its alliance with the principal Lords amongst the Moors. Mascizel, and Ma∣zuca his Brothers, marched with two great Bo∣dies of an Army; and Cyria his Sister, a Lady of great courage, assisted them with Men and Money, and raised by her Intrigues all Mauri∣tania.

XV. Theodosius foreseeing that it would be difficult to oppose so many Forces, if he should give them time to join, advanced by great Jour∣nies towards Mascizel, and presented him Bat∣tel. The Moors accepted of it, and vigorously sustained the first charge of the Legions: but at length they were broken; the Vanguard cut in pieces, and the rest saved themselves in disor∣der. Theodosius made himself Master of the Field, and took some important places for his security, where he made great provisions of Necessaries: and as he went to advance further in the Country, he had advice that Mascizel was returning with the Moors which he had rallied, and some fresh Troops which he had received. He joined him in a little space of time, fought him, routed his whole Army, and pressed upon him so briskly, that he scarce left him opportu∣nity enough to save himself.

XVI. The Rebels were in a consternation at the loss of these two Battels; and Firmus not knowing whom to address himself to, had re∣course to some Bishops, whom he entreated to repair to Theodosius, and to obtain of him a Par∣don for his Rebellion upon any condition what∣soever. These Deputies were received with Honour; and upon the favourable Answer they brought back, Firmus himself departed with a small Attendance, and came to the Camp of Theodosius, where this General attended him without his Tent. The Legions were under Arms with their Ensigns displayed, and every Soldier at the first noise of the arrival of the Captain of the Rebels, had redoubled his fierce∣ness.

Firmus alighted from his Horse, as soon as he perceived Theodosius; and approaching him with a profound Respect, he prostrated himself at his Feet to the very ground, and asked him pardon for his offence, his tears in his eyes, some∣times accusing his rashness, sometimes his mis∣fortuue, with all the marks of an unfeigned re∣pentance. Theodosius received his Submissions but coldly, and after a long Conference which they had together, the Accommodation was concluded. The Conditions were, that Firmus should furnish Provisions for the Army; that he should leave some of his Relations for Ho∣stages; that he should release all the Prisoners he had made since the Troubles; that he should restore to the City of Icosium the Roman En∣signs, and all that he had taken upon the Sub∣jects of the Empire; and after that he should

licentiate his Troops, and enter into the Emperor's Favor.

XVII. Firmus returned well satisfied, and accom∣plished in less than two days the greatest part of the Treaty. Theodosius feeing such fair dispositions to a Peace, marched towards Caesarea, to repair the Ruines of that City which had been burnt in the beginning of the Wars. He received in his way a deputation from the Maziques, a People of Africk, who had unseasonably joined with the Rebels, and came to ask Pardon for their Trea∣son; but his Answer to them was no more, than that he knew how to forgive his Enemies, but that he could not endure Traytors; and so sent them away••with menaces, that he would soon ••e with them toochastise them▪ He was jus••come out of Caesarea, where he had left the first and second Legion, in order to repair the Fortifica∣tions of the place, when he received information that Firmus had only disguised his Treachery un∣der appearances of Peace and Submission; that he debauched with Promises and Money the very Troops of the Empire; that a Squadron of Archers had gone over to his Party; and that a Tribune had had the insolence to put his Collar in form of a Diadem upon the head of this Rebel.

XVIII. Theodosius resolved to use all the extre∣mities of War against the Traytors. He marched with an incredible diligence towards Tagavia, where he surprized a party of the revolted Ar∣chers, whom he deliver'd to the vengeance of the Soldiers, in order to make them learn to fear what he made them exercise against the culpable. The Tribune was executed, after his hand cut off▪ the

other Officers were beheaded, and all the rest pu∣nished, as they deserved. This irritated General besieged, a few days after, a Fortress where the most seditious of the Moors were retired. He took it by Storm, put the whole Garison to the Sword, and razed the Walls to the very Founda∣tions. He presently turned upon the Coast of Tangier, where the Maziques were assembled, and after having defeated them several times, he af∣forded them that Pardon which he had refused before.

XIX. At last the heat of War having engaged him in the Enemy's Country further than he ima∣gined, Cyria, the Sister of Firmus, suddenly caused an Insurrection of the whole Province. All the People put themselves in a posture of Battel, as if the Signal had been given, and marched against the Romans. Theodosius, who had then but a little Foot, with a Body of 3500 Horse, and who saw this innumerable crowd of Enemies, was some time in suspense, whether he should hazard a Bat∣tel, or retire. The shame of yielding to those Enemies so many times overcome, and the fear of disgracing the Arms of the Empire, determined him to fight. But after having considered the condition of Affairs, he judged that it was better to want the obtaining of one Battel, than to lose the advantage of all the rest which he had gained. So he retired, always possessing himself of advan∣tageous Posts, for fear of a surprize; but the Enemies persued him obstinately, cut off all passa∣ges, and reduced him to the necessity of exposing himself to an unequal Combat in order to save himself.

XX. Hazard kept off the danger, for the Ma∣ziques, whom he had just fubdued, were obliged to furnish him with Troops, and they performed it. Some Roman Squadrons advanced before to conduct them to Theodosius, not knowing the con∣dition he was in. The Moorish Couriers discerned this Succor at a distance, and returned full speed to give the Alarm to their Camp, as if entire Ar∣mies were approaching to disengage the General. They that kept the passages abandoned them, and Theodosius taking the advantage of the moment, and gaining the Defiles, went to encamp under the City of Taves, where he secured his Army in the beginning of the month of February; from thence he observed the Enemy, and laboured to disunite them by secret Negotiations, till he might be able to reduce them by force.

XXI. In the mean time he dispatched his Son to the Emperor Valentinian, to give him an account of the state of the African Troubles, and to pro∣cure new Troops, in order to the entire destruction of the rebellious Party. The young Theodosius was received at Court with all the consideration that his Fathers Services and his own deserved. Gratian was extremely glad to see him again, and from this time he conceived an esteem for him, which was since known to the whole World.

He was a Prince▪ in whom was scarce accom∣plished thirteen years, who was already very un∣derstanding; and who made great advances in the study of Learning under Ausonius his Tutor, one of the finest Genius's of his Age. He won the affection of the People by his sweet and obliging ••at••e•• and it was judged from thence that he

would have the good qualities of his Father, with∣out his defects. He had been declared Augustus not long since in a conjuncture pressing enough.

* 1.5 XXII. Valentinian was fallen into a distemper, whereof it was not expected that he would reco∣ver. Every one destined him a Successor accord∣ing to his fancy, as if the Empire had been cer∣tainly vacant: The Gaulish Officers, that were of credit in the Army, cast their eyes upon Julian, first Secretary of State, cruel, and violent. Others made their Intreagues for Severus, Collonel of the Foot, who was not a whit more moderate than Julian. The Emperor being cured, contrary to all appearance, reflected upon the danger he had run, and resolved to break all these Cabals, to associate his Son to the Empire. He sounded the inclinations of the Soldiers; and as he was assured of their intentions, he ordered the Army to as∣semble in a spacious plain, where he came in Per∣son, with his whole Court. He ascended upon his Tribunal, taking his Son by the hand, whom he had brought expresly for the purpose; and after he had shown him to the Troops, he prayed them to consent to the resolution he had taken to share the Empire with him.

He represented to them that he did not pretend to use his own Rights any further, than as the Ar∣my should think them reasonable, and that he would always have more regard to the Interests of the State, than to those of his Family; that he presented to them his Son, that was brought up amongst them, and destined to fight with them for the defence of the Empire; that indeed he was a Child, that had neither strength nor experience, but who appeared so well born, that it was proba∣ble

he would be no dishonor to them; that he ap∣plyed himself already to the study of Sciences, and to all sorts of noble Exercises, to the end that he might be pleasing to them, and know how to distinguish persons of merit; that he would soon put him in a condition to march with them under the Standards of the Empire, without fear∣ing the incommodity of Seasons, or the fatigues of War; that he would recommend to him above all things the observance of the publick good, as his own, and to prefer the State above his Fa∣mily.

At these words, the Soldiers, transported with joy, interrupted him, and strove who should be loudest in proclaiming Gratian, Augustus, by clatter∣ing of Arms, and sound of Trumpets. The Em∣peror encouraged by these Acclamations invested his Son with the Imperial Habits, then he kissed him, and with a gravity mixed with joy and tenderness,

Behold your self, My Son, said he to him, invest∣ed with the Purple of Emperors. I was desirous of doing you this favour, and our Companions, whom you see here present, have agreed thereto. Endeavor to make your self able to ease and as∣sist your Father, and your Uncle, whose Collegue you commence, from this time: Dispose your self to remain under Arms with the patience of a simple Soldier; and to pass over the Danube and Rhine frozen, at the head of the Foot: spare not, if 'tis convenient, your blood and life for the Peo∣ple whom you govern: Esteem nothing below you that has any reference to the safety or glory of the Empire. This is the principal Advice I can give you here. The greatest employment of my Reign hereafter, shall be to instruct you how to reign. Then turning himself towards the Troops,

As for you, said he, support the Honor of the Empire by your Arms, continue to assist us in our Wars; and preserve to this young Emperor, whom I refer to your cares and affection, an inviolable fidelity.

Thereupon arose another mighty Shout: Eu∣phraxus Secretary of State cried out, that Valenti∣nian and his Son deserved yet more. The whole Army renewed their Acclamations, and every one pressed forward to view this August Youth at a nearer distance: whose Eyes were lively and sparkling, his Face agreeable, his Behavior sweet and noble; and a certain modest Majesty, without Pride, drew him the Love and Admiration of all that beheld him. This Prince, from this time, was the Delight of the People, and his Vertues encreased with his Age.

XXIII. Valentinian was then upon the point of entring Germany with a puissant Army, to tame that wild and troublesom Nation, that always kept the Frontiers of the Empire in alarm. His Son he took with him, and carried him beyond the Rhine in the Enemies Country, to accustom him betimes to the fatigues and even dangers of War. This Expedition was an important one, the Em∣peror undertook it of himself, and went there to command in person. Wherefore he made choice of his best Troops, and all his Officers of Repu∣tation in the Empire. He ordered the young Theodosius to follow him, and observed in him so much Valor and Prudence in the divers Events of this War, that he judged him capable of com∣manding the Armies in chief, and resolved to em∣ploy him. The sudden irruption of the Quades soon furnished him with an occasion, to the great

satisfaction of Gratian, who already interessed himself much in the fortune of Theodosius.

The Emperor Valentinian, who loved glory, and was always meditating upon some great design, that might tend to his Honor, and the Advantage of the Public, attempted to make a Causey be continued from the Springs of the Rhine, to its very mouth in the Sea. He made himself a draught of the Forts he would have erected on both sides of the River, according to the disposi∣tion of the places; and having perceived that the Waters insensibly ruined a Fortress which he had built upon the Neckar, he turned the Course of the River by a Channel which he caused to be made, by force of Labour and Silver: He had a mind to fortify the Banks of the Danube, like those of the Rhine, to serve as two Barriers to oppose the barbarous Nations, and to render the Empire inaccessible to them. He sent Orders to Equitius, who commanded in Illyrium, to pass into the Coun∣try of the Quades, and there to erect a Cittadel, where he might hold a considerable Garrison.

XXIV. The Quades lived peaceably then un∣der their King in Moravia; and as they had no de∣sign to usurp the Lands of their Neighbors, they thought themselves under no necessity to mind their own. It was formerly a puissant, and war∣like People; but they had degenerated from their ancient Valor, and languished for some time in a Laziness, which rendred them almost despicable. Equitius preparing himself to execute the Orders of the Emperor, the Quades remonstrated to him softly the injury that was done to them, and sent Deputies to Court for to complain. Equitius du∣ring the time an answer was expected, gave

Orders for the works to cease, for fear of exciting Disturbances: but Maximin, a man cruel and active, accused him of Negligence and Cowardise, and charged himself with the Commission. He went upon the place, and ordered the continuance of the Forts which were begun, without asking the consent of the Barbarians, which they would un∣doubtedly have granted, rather than have brought a war upon themselves. Gabinius their King went to find him, and represented to him modestly, that it was an insult committed upon them without reason; that it was but just to let a peaceable Na∣tion live in Peace, that disturbed not that of others; that they had no longer the Ambition of Conquest, but that still there remained with them that of being Masters in their own Country; that they left the Grandeur and Glory of subduing the World, to those who were spurred on thereto; that as for them, they esteemed themselves happy enough in their freedom; In a word, that they asked no Favor, but begg'd that they might have no Injustice done them.

Maximin made an appearance of being affected with the reasons of this Prince; and for a testimo∣ny of his Friendship, invited him with some of his Retinue to a great Feast, where he caused him to be inhumanly murdered. The People, after having lamented for some time the death of their King, took up Arms to revenge it. Despair was to them in the place of Courage; and the Sarmats being joyned to them, they passed the Danube together, and dispersed themselves in the Country, burning the Villages, and destroying all they met in their way. The Princess Constantia, Daughter of the Emperor Constantius, who had been betrothed to Gratian, was coming then from

the Eastern Court, to that of the West, and was taking some refreshment at a Country House. Her Train was pillaged, some of her Servants taken, and she herself had fallen into the hands of these Barbarians, if Messala, who had been sent to receive her, had not clapt her into a Chariot they met by accident, and brought her full speed to Sirmium.

Probus the Praefectus Pretorio, a fearful man, and little used to War, was in the City, and prepared his Horses to make his escape in the night. They endeavoured to make him understand, that the Danger was not so great as he imagined, that his flight would discourage the Citizens, and that he would answer for all the mischances, that should happen to the Princess. At last, he recovered himself a little from his fright, and gave orders to repair the Fortifications, forthwith, and to get dispatched from the Neighboring Garrisons some Companies of Archers, to defend the place in case of a Siege.

The Enemies were contented to keep the Field. There was sent against them two of the best Legions of the Empire, who would, un∣doubtedly, have given them a defeat: but they fell out about Pretensions, and Disputes of Prefe∣rence; and the Sarmats having forced them sepa∣rately into their quarters, cut them in pieces one after another. The young Theodosius was sent to stop the course of these disorders; and that he might act with more Authority, he was advanced to the Government of Moesia, and the command of the Troops of that Province.

XXV. He parted without delay; and after having observed the posture of affairs, he assem∣bled

a considerable body of an Army. His first application was to establish an exact Discipline amongst his Troops, and to chase out of the Country a remainder of rambling and disbanded Barbarians, who pillaged it with Impunity. He put some to death, and contented himself with having expelled the rest out of the Limits of the Empire. Aster which, having information, that the Sarmats appeared upon the Frontier▪ and that their Army was enlarged by a multitude of Peo∣ple in League with them, he resolved not only to oppose their Passage, but likewise to draw them to a fight. The Enemies, who confided in their numbers, divided themselves into several bodies, to make irruptions through divers places: But Theodosius beat them in every encounter; and after having obliged them to re-unite themselves, he went to attack them in ••••eir very Camp. Not∣withstanding the oppo••••tion they immediately made, he forced them, and made so great a slaughter, that they entreated him for a Peace, upon such conditions as he thought fit to impos••▪ and durst not infringe it, so long as he continued in this Province.

XXVI. Whilst Thoodosius the Son served the Empire so successfully in Moesia, the Father was employed in the Reduction of the revolted Moors in Africk▪ He had already disingaged a great number from the Interests of Firmus, some by Menaces, and some by Promises and Rewards. Firmus, who perceived some alteration, fearing on one side to be abandoned, and on the other vexed to entertain so many Troops at his own expence, went out of his Camp by night, and saved himself in the Mountains. As soon as Theodosius had ad∣vice,

that this Army without a Captain was divi∣ded, and retreated in disorder, he took the field, defeated one part of them, and obliged the rest to lay down their Arms. This multitude of enemies being thus dispersed, he put in the Cities Gover∣nours of an assured fidelity, and pursued Firmus to the Mountains.

XXVII. Scarce was he entred therein, but he was informed, that the Captain of the Rebels was fled to the Isaflians, and that he was assured of their protection. Theodosius turned his cour••e on that side, after he had refreshed his Troops, and summoned the people to deliver up to him to Fir∣mus, Mazuca his Brother, and the Chief Officers that were with him. As they refused to do it, he declared War against them, and begun it by a battle, wherein they were defeated, Mazuca mortally hurt, and Firmus put to flight with the remainder of his Troops. It was then Igmazen, King of the Isaflians, assembled all his Forces, and ••arched against the Romans, who were already far advanced into his Dominions. He went him∣self to meet Theodosius with a small attendance, and being come to him, he asked him who he was? and why he came to disturb the peace of a King, who had an independent power, and was answerable for his actions to no one, but himself? Theodosius replied, That he was one of the Lieute∣nants of Valentinian, the Emperor, and Master of the World; that he was come to chastise a Re∣bel; and that if he was not delivered into his hands, he had orders to destroy as well Kings, as People, that should be so unjust as to protect him.

Igmazen retired stung with this Answer, and the next morning betimes presented himself in Bat∣tel-Aray at the head of 20000 Men. He had left hard by a Body of Reserve, and hid behind his Battalions some auxiliary Troops, who were to break out in round Bodies, in order to encompass the Romans, who were in little number. Theodosius on his side put his Troops in order, laid before them their past Victories, and encouraged them so well, that they fought an entire day without their Ranks being disordered. Towards evening Firmus appeared upon an Ascent, covered with a rich Vesture of Scarlet, and cryed out to the tired Soldiers, That they would be certainly overwhelmed by number, and that they must expect no quarter, if they delivered not up their General to the King Igmazen. This discourse encouraged some to fight more fiercely, and so disturbed others, that they aban∣doned their Ranks.

XXIX. The Night having put an end to the Engagement, Theodosius retired with little loss of his side, and severely punished all those Soldiers whom the threats of Firmus had discouraged. A little while after having reinforced his Army, he renewed the War, and defeated in several En∣counters the best Troops of the Isas••ians. Igmazen vexed that he should be so often overcome, and observing that he had to do with a cautious and successful Captain, who would at last overwhelm him and his Dominions, began to consider how to live in peace. He sent him secret advice, that he was at no Controversy with the Empire, and that he would abandon to him Firmus and all the Re∣bels; but that his People were gained, and him∣self no more their Master; that the only means to

fix them to their duty, was to afford them no re∣spite, and to reduce them to consider their own proper safety, rather than the defence of a Stran∣ger; that it was necessary for the Inconveniencies which they received to be much greater than the Advantages they were promised, and that Theodo∣sius should make himself more formidable, than Firmus had made himself beloved.

XXX. Theodosius made use of this advice, and omitted no occasion to fatigue the Isaf••ians, some∣times defeating them in Parties, sometimes forcing them from their quarters, burning their Cities and Towns, and ravaging the whole Countrey. Igma∣zen abandoned them to their evil Counsels, and made their Losses appear to them more conside∣rable than they really were. They found them∣selves at length so weak and tired, that they began to look to themselves. Firmus observed this cold∣ness, and mistrusting the King, upon some Confe∣rences he had with Masilla Prince of the Maziques, he had a desire to flie once more to the Moun∣tains. Then Igmazen discovered himself, and stopt him. The Rebel seeing himself enclosed, and guarded at a distance, resolved to prevent his pu∣nishment by a voluntary death. He made his Guards drunk in the Night, and as they were asleep, he arose, and finding by chance under his hand a Cord proper for the design he entertained, he strangled himself in a corner of the Cham∣ber.

XXXI. Igmazen, who was to have conducted him the next day to the Camp of Theodosius, was sensibly displeased at this Accident. He attested the publick Faith, brought Masilla for a Witness

of this misfortune, and charged the Body of this Wretch upon a Camel, which he went to present himself to Theodosius, as a pledge of the friendship and affection which he had for the Empire. Theo∣dosius made the Body be acknowledged by the People of the Countrey, and by some Prisoners, who all swore that it was the Body of Firmus. Then he made great Caresses to the King, and a few days after he took the Road of Siti••i, and was received in Triumph in all the Cities where he passed. He hoped that he should be called to Court after so long and fortunate an Expedition; but he had Orders to remain in Africk, and to fix entirely the Affairs of that Province, which the avarice of the Governors, and the cruelty of the Rebels had almost brought to Ruine.

XXXII. In the mean time the Emperon Valen∣tinian made great preparations for War; and de∣parted from Treves in the beginning of the Spring to go into Illyrium in all haste. All the adjoyning Nations were startled, and sent Embassadors to him upon his way, humbly to sue for Peace. His answer was no more, than that he came to chastise them, if they were culpable, and that he would judge of that when he came upon the place. Every one thought, that he came to punish the Assassi∣nate of the King of the Quades, or the disorders that were excited in the Provinces, at which the Governors were alarmed. Notwithstanding he used towards them his usual Policy, and gave them not so much as a Reprimand. He passed al∣most the whole Summer, at Carnunte in Pannonia in gathering his Troops, and supplying his Maga∣zines: and of a sudden having laid a Bridge over the Danube, entred into the Country of the Quades

with his Army, being resolved to exterminate them for their last irruption.

Altho this Nation, poor and fearful, was not in a condition to defend it self, they put all to Fire and Sword that they could meet with, both in City and Country, without distinction of Age or Sex. The greatest part of the Inhabitants saved themselves in the Mountains, being amazed to see amongst them Roman Eagles, and an Empe∣ror in person; and regarding at a distance their Cities smoaking, and their Habitations reduced to Ashes, they lamented the Destruction of their Neighbors, and the Desolation of their Country. Valentinian a few days after changed his mind; and whither it was that he wanted provisions, or that the season was too far advanced; or whether he was asham•••• to insult over a People, that was more unfortunate than culpable, who could make no resistance, he repassed the Danube, and put his Army into Winter Quarters.

XXXIII. The Quades returned a little from their fears, and made choice of the most qualified amongst them to go and ask the Emperors pardon, with assurances to serve him upon what conditions he would be pleased to impose on them. These Deputies arrived at Bergiteon, a little Castle in Pannonia, where Valentinian was retired. There they obtained at last an Audience, where they were introduced by Equitius; and falling at the feet of the Emperor, they continued there for some time without rising, seized with respect and fear; then they most humbly entreated him in the behalf of all the Nation to pardon them, and to aff••rd them Peace. Valentinian. surprized at the Poverty and ill looks of these Embassadors,

cried out that he was very unhappy in having to treat with such a sort of People; and reproached them with their insolence and perfidiousness. As they cast themselves upon frivolous excuses, he fell into a passion, and spoke to them with so much vehemence, that he broke a vein, and fell half∣dead amongst his Officers, the Blood issuing out of his Mouth. He died some hours after in Con∣vulsions, upon the seventeenth day of November▪ in the Fifty fifth year of his Age, and the twelfth of his Reign.

XXXIV. Every one reasoned upon this death * 1.6according to his fancy; some observed that a Co∣met had appeared a little before; that a Thun∣derbolt had fallen upon the Palace; that a great Owl had perch'd upon the top of the Imperial Baths, from whence they could not chase it away; that the Emperor had seen the Empress in a Dream with a mourning habit▪ and going out that morning, with more sadness in his looks than was usual, with an intent to get on Horseback, the Horse fell a prancing against his Custom. The wiser sort, instead of those vain and ridiculous observations, remarked that he died as he lived, in trouble and agitation; that he was a severe Judge, rather than a good Master; that of all the Emperors, there was none but him that had passed his Reign without signing one Pardon; that one would have said, he punished more out of Peevishness than Justice; that there was a little ••varice in this severity, and that confiscations too often followed the condemnation of Criminals; that he made War in fury, and never went to en∣gage the Enemy, but he had a design to extermi∣nate them; and that by a just judgment of God▪

his anger, which had occasioned so many deaths, was at last the cause of his own.

Many said in his favor, that he had endeavoured to overcome his temper, but could not; that this excessive severity was not becoming an Emperor, but had been very useful to the Empire; that in ordering the first Eunuch of the Palace to be burnt alive for having injured a Widow, he had thereby saved all Widows and Orphans from oppression; that as to the rest, he enjoyed more Vertues than Defects; that he had spared the goods of the Peo∣ple, * 1.7lessened the Taxes, regulated the Soldiers, trained up excellent Officers, fortified the Fron∣tier Places, and obtained battels by his Lieute∣nants, and by himself; that he had led a life pure and irreproachable, banished from his Court Cor∣ruption and Debauchery, as well by his Edicts, as his own Example, and shewed in all his conduct Spirit, Courage, Politeness and Grandeur.

The Zealots for Religion blamed him, for ha∣ving espoused Justine, an Arrian; for suffering himself to be carried over to the Principles of * 1.8Auxentius Archbishop of Milan, who made an appearance of being a Catholic; and above all for having permitted every one to live according * 1.9to his Belief, and for not concerning himself, un∣der the pretext of a Layman, in the diffe∣rences of the Church. Others alledged on the contrary side, that this was necessary policy, that Jovian had used the same before him; and that it was much better to perswade men to truth by sweetness, than to draw them to it by open force. They agreed notwithstanding, that this Prince had always retained the Faith of the Church in its Purity; that he was at variance thereupon with his Brother Valence, so far as to refuse him succor

* 1.10 against the Barbarians, as an Enemy to God, whom it was his Duty to abandon; and that he begg'd Saint Ambrose to reprehend him, if he was wanting either in Piety, or the Doctrine of the Church.

XXXV. It will not be improper to give a relation here of the part Valentinian had in the ordination of this Archbishop, of whom we shall so frequent∣ly speak in the course of this History. Auxentius the Arrian being dead, after having held for seve∣ral years the See of Milan, Valentinian desired the Bishops to assemble in order to elect a new Pastor. He advised them to chose a man of a profound knowledge, and irreproachable life,

To the * 1.11end that, said he, the Imperial City may be san∣ctified by his instructions and examples, and that the Emperors, who are Masters of the World, and cease not to be great Sinners, may receive his advice with confidence, and his corrections with respect.

The Bishops prayed him to no∣minate himself such a one as he desired; but he answered to them, that it was an affair beyond his capacity, and that he had neither wisdom, nor piety sufficient to be concerned therein; that this choice belonged to them, because they had a per∣fect knowledge of the Laws of the Church, and were filled with the lights of the Spirit of God.

The Bishops upon this assemble with the rest of the Clergy to proceed to an Election, and the People whose agreement was required, were called thereto. The Arrians named a person of their Sect, the Catholicks were for one of their Commu∣nion. The two Parties grew hot, and the Dispute * 1.12was turning to a Sedition, and an open War. Ambrose Governor of the Province, and City, a

man of sense and probity, was advertised of this disorder, and went to the Church to appease it. His presence made all the controversies cease, and the Assembly being re-united on a sudden, as by a divine inspiration, demanded Ambrose for their Pastor. This thought appeared to him fantastical; but as they persisted to demand him,▪ he remon∣strated to the Assembly that he had always lived in secular employments, and that he was not yet so much as baptized; that the Laws of the Empire forbid those, who are exercent in public charges, to enter in the Clergy without permission of the Emperors; and that the choice of a Bishop ought to be made by an inspiration of the Holy Ghost, not by a popular fancy. Notwithstanding all his reasons, and his resistance, the People would conduct him to the Episcopal Throne, to which God had designed him, he was ordered Guards for fear he should escape, and a Request * 1.13preferred to the Emperor to beg his consent to this Election.

The Emperor most willingly agreed to it, and gave Orders that he should be forthwith baptized, and consecrated 8 days after. It is reported that this Prince would himself assist at his Consecration, and that at the end of the Ceremony lifting up his Eyes and Hands to Heaven, he cried out transport∣ed with Joy; I render thanks to thee, O God, in that thou hast confirmed my choice by thine, in * 1.14commiting our Souls to him, to whom I had ap∣pointed the Government of this Province. The holy Arch-Bishop applied himself entirely to the study of the Sacred Scriptures, and the establish∣ment of Faith and Discipline within his Diocess. Having observed the commission of some abuses by the Magistrates under the Emperor's Authori∣ty,

he went to find him in his Palace, and remon∣strated to him the zeal he ought to have for the Service of God, and the observation of Justice.

This Prince replied to him wisely, that he re∣ceived his advice in good part; that he knew him him of a long time for an upright Man and inca∣pable of dissimulation, or flattery; that in ac∣cepting of him for his Bishop, he had well fore∣seen, that he chose to himself a Judge incorrupti∣ble in his life; that he had not ceased to confirm his Election, judging that one could not give too much Authority to a good Man; that he might use then his ordinary liberty; that he might re∣prove by a holy severity the irregularities of the Court; and that he should not fear to advertise even him of his mistakes, and to apply those re∣medies which he should judge convenient accord∣ing to his Prudence, and the Maxims of the Law of God.

The holy Arch-bishop supported by the Empe∣rors power, laboured to exterminate the Errors, which his Predecessor Auxentius had sowed in the Imperial City: all the Church expected much from this protection, but this Prince died a little while after, as we have already said. His body was carried to Constantinople, and laid in the Se∣pulchre of the great Constantine with the usual So∣lemnities.

XXXVI. Gratian, the eldest Son of Valentinian, and of Severa his first Wife, had been associated to the Empire about seven years before, and was then at Treves, where his Father had lest him. The young Valentinian, Son of the second bed, be∣tween eight and nine years old, was coming for∣ward with the Empress Justine his Mother; and

as he was not far from the Army, the chief Offi∣cers conspired together to create him Emperor. Cerealis his Uncle managed all the Intreigue with Dexterity, and presently obtained Merobades, who commanded the Infantry. They cut off the bridges, and guarded all the passages which led to the Quarters of the Gauls, Troops that were mutinous and disaffected. All that were suspected to them had orders to march, before they under∣stood any thing of the Emperors death. They took care to remove in particular the Count Se∣bastian, a firm and peaceable man, but too much beloved of the Soldiers in such an occasion. Af∣ter having thus disposed all things, Cerealis went to seek his Nephew, and made him to be declared Augustus six days after his Fathers death.

They that were concerned in this Election, wrote to Gratian, that the Enemies having retaken courage since the death of his Father, the Army wanted the presence of an Emperor; and that they had been constrained to elect the Prince Va∣lentinian, before stirring spirits could have time to take other measures; that they begg'd his Maje∣sty * 1.15to excuse them, i•• they had not staid for his consent; and to pardon them a fault, which they had not committed but for the good of the State, and the interest of his Family. Gratian being offended at their proceedings, was upon the point of being severe with some: but he was appeased almost at the same time, and confirming the Ele∣ction of this young Prince, he not only accepted of him for a Collegue, but would also be to him instead of a Father. He contented himself with the Provinces which are on this side the Alps, and left him Italy, Africk, and Illyrium to govern.

XXXVII. The death of Theodosius the Father, and the disgrace of his Son arrived in this time, by the jealousy of the Ministers of the Empire, and the Intrigues of the Emperor Valens, who could not endure those whom he thought worthy to suc∣ceed him. This hatred was founded upon Pre∣dictions and Horoscopes which he thought in∣evitable, and yet would endeavour to avoid them.

He was a Prince who had many defects, and whose good qualities were extinguished by the bad. Sometimes he took Resolutions good enough, but he often wanted the force or capacity to execute them. He stopt the Ambition and In∣solence of the Grandees, but it was almost always in their oppression. He might have enjoyed the glory of being a good Friend, if he had known how to chuse his friendships. He did not charge the Provinces with Taxes, but he ruined the best houses of the Empire, and would regain upon the confiscations of particulars, what he lost in les∣sening the publick Imposts. As soon as any one was accused before him to be rich, 'twas sufficient to prove him guilty; and without putting himself to the trouble of discerning truth from falshood, he never ceased to punish when it would prove to his advantage. He was always ready to give long Audiences to Flatterers, and was tired when they began to justify themselves; which gave occasion for Oppressions and Calumnies.

XXXVIII. There had been divers Attempts made against him since his Reign, which made him fearful and suspitious. Some corrupted Courtiers made their advantage by this infirmity of the Em∣peror,

and persuaded him at every turn, that he in∣curr'd some great danger; some to get themselves esteemed, and to render themselves necessary; others to get rid of their Enemies without punish∣ment, by accusing them of disaffection to the Prince. All the Intrigues of Court rowled upon none but false Reports, and imaginary Attempts. Matters were come to that point, that it was a Crime to explicate a Prediction, or to speak of the Successor of Valens; this easiness to believe and fear all things, was the occasion of the loss of several great Men, and particularly that of old Theodosius.

Palla••ius, a Man of an inferior birth, and much given to Magick, having been arrested as an Ac∣complice of some Lords at Court, who were ac∣cused for robbing the Exchequer, was put into the hands of Modestus Praefectus Praetorio. He was * 1.16examined, and would discover nothing. He was put to the Rack, which he soon endured with con∣stancy enough; but when he found himself still pressed with Torments, he cryed out that he had things to tell of more importance than those he was examined for, and which had relation to the person of the Prince. He was permitted to re∣cover his breath, and as he was encouraged to speak, he declared that there had been lately held a se∣cret Cabal, wherein by Witchcrafts and detestable Presages, they had learnt the Destiny of the Em∣peror, and the Name of him who was to succeed him in the Empire. He went so far as to name those who were assistant in it; they were arrested upon the spot, and durst not deny a thing, whose circumstances were already known.

XXXIX. It was an Intrigue of some persons

of Quality, and several Pagan Philosophers, who were associated to know what should happen after the Emperor's death. The Aversion which they had for the Christian Religion, and the desire of * 1.17seeing theirs established, gave them this Curiosity. They were in hopes the Oracle would name some of their Party; they had already before-hand cast their eyes upon Theodorus, one of the Secretaries of Valens, of a very noble Family amongst the Gauls, esteemed for his Probity, his Parts and Courage, who lived in the quality of a mighty Lord, and in a tumultuous Court was beloved of all the World, besides that he kept up in his actions and discourses a generous liberty. These great qualities made him to be lookt upon as a person capable of restoring the worship of the Gods, to which he was very much disposed.

These Philosophers being possessed by this thought, assembled privately together in one of their houses. There they made a Trivet of Lau∣rel Branches resembling that of Delphos, and con∣secrated it with Imprecations, and extraordinary Ceremonies. They put over it a Bason compo∣sed of different metals, about which they ranked the four and twenty Letters of the Alphabet at an equal distance. The most expert Magician of the Company, being covered with a linnen cloth, and bearing in his hands some Vervein, went for∣ward, and began his Invocations, bowing his head sometimes on one side, then on the other. At last he stopt short, holding upon the Bason a Ring tyed to a File••. As he made an end of murmu∣ring his magick words, it is reported that the Tri∣vet * 1.18was suddenly observed to move the Ring to leap and agitate insensibly, and at length to fall here and there upon those Letters it seemed to

have chosen. These Letters being thus touched, left their places, and went successively to rank themselves upon the Table; one would have said that an invisible hand had thus collected them to∣gether: they composed Answers in heroick Verses, which all the Assistants diligently re∣marked.

XL. The first thing that the Oracle informed them, was that their Curiosity should cost them all their Lives, and that the Emperor should soon after die at Mimas of a horrible kind of death: then they were for knowing the Name of his Suc∣cessor. The inchanted Ring continuing to jump upon the Letters, collected these two Syllables The-o: the d came presently to join them. Whereupon one of the Assistants interrupted the Charm, and cryed out, That their wishes were ac∣complished, and that it was the Orders of Destiny that Theodorus should reign after Valens. They asked no further; and without considering the misfor∣tune that the Oracle had foretold them, as 'tis na∣tural to believe easily what one wishes to come to pass, they all expected the accomplishment of the destiny of Theodorus.

XLI. As soon as the Affair had been thus dis∣covered at Antioch, Valens knowing that Theodorus was at Constantinople for some domestick Affairs, sent Guards thither to take him, and to bring him safe: which was done. He was examined, and he replied that he had no share in this Intrigue; that since he came to know it, he had a design to reveal it to the Emperor, but that he was assured it was nothing else but a Philosophical Curiosity; that it was a hideous Crime to attempt the usur∣pation

of the Empire, but that it was lawful to expect from Destiny, whose Orders were inevi∣table; that as for him, he had neither enterprized, nor depended any thing thereupon. Letters were produced to him, by which he was convicted of having flattered himself with the Prediction, and consulted his Friend about the time, and means of putting it into execution.

XLII. The Emperor caused his Head to be taken off, and commanded an enquiry after all his Accomplices, and to exterminate all the Phi∣losophers that since the Empire of Julian made open profession of Magick. It was represented to him, that all the Prisons were already full of persons convicted, or suspect, and that some favour would be most just in the number: but he was offended with this Remonstrance, and gave Orders for all to be put to death indifferently without other form of Process. This cruel Sen∣tence was executed, the Innocents were con∣founded with the Guilty, some perished by the Sword, others by Fire, many were torn in pieces by the Rack; above all, they burned the Ma∣gicians with their Books, and no one durst appear in a Gown throughout all Asia, lest the resem∣blance of the Habit should make them go for * 1.19Philosophers. There was nothing to be seen in Antioch but Blood diffused, Houses consumed, and Fires kindled; which rendred the Emperor so odious, that they made throughout the City this publick Imprecation against him, That Valens might himself one day be burnt alive.

That which was most deplorable herein, was, that they made a soveraign judgment upon simple Suspicions, without entring into any manner of

discussion. A Lady was condemned to dye, for boasting that she was recoved of a Quartan Ague * 1.20by pronouncing certain words. The Estate of a Great Lord was confiscated, for having got the Nativity of one of his Children calculated. A Rich Burgess was executed, because there was found amongst his papers the figure of one of his Brothers, named Valence. A young man was put to death, for having affirmed himself to be cured of a distemper in the Bath, by carrying his Fin∣gers one after another to his Stomach, and naming the vowels so many times.

XLIII. As great passions are not only criminal, but also ridiculous: Valens imagined to himself, that he could destroy this fatal Emperor, which the Oracle had expressed but by halves; not think∣ing that there is a Divine Providence, that laughs at humane fore▪sights, and that a Tyrant never killed his Successor. He attempted to destroy all Persons of Quality, whose names began by the two syllables suspected, and made so exact an * 1.21enquiry, that many to preserve themselves, were obliged to quit their names, and to take others not so dangerous,

XLIV. The THEODOSIƲS's had acquired too much reputation to escape the persecutions of a Prince, so cruel and suspicious. Theodosius the Father was still in Africa, where Valentinian had esteemed him necessary for the repose of the Province. After he had extinguished the fire of Rebellion, he had informed the Court of the misery of the People, and made high complaints of the Roman Count, who had consumed them by his avarice and inhumane dealings. He had

rigorously punished some of his Accomplices, and feared not to publish the intelligences of this Go∣vernor with some interessed Ministers, who made an advantage of his concussions, and protected him near the Emperor. This firmness of Theodosius had procured him the hatred of those powerful men, who stuck close to the Prince after having abused him, and who affording themselves the freedom of committing things unjust, would debar others of that of discovering them, and making com∣plaints.

The Emperor Valens was contented to entertain these enmities▪ under-hand, without daring to attempt any thing in the life time of Valentinian; but after his death, he kept no measures any longer, and took the same ascendant over his Nephews, that his Brother had formerly taken over him. He gained the Ministers of Gratian, already prepossessed by their Jealousies. He joyned with the Empress Justine, an Arrian, as vio∣lent as himself, and made so good a use of the favourable conjuncture of these new Reigns, that mixing the Interests of the State with those of Religion, and the Passions of others with his own, he brought Theodosius to his trial. He was arrested in Carthage; and whether he was accused for in∣tending to make himself Master of Africk, or had other crimes supposed against him, he was con∣demned to die in those very places, where he had triumphed a little before.

XLV. Theodosius seeing himself oppressed by envy, employed the remaining part of his time in thoughts of his Salvation. He received Baptism, which through the evil custom of that time he had deferred, and died innocent before God, as he

had lived without reproach, and with Glory before * 1.22men. His Son was still in Moes••a, where he com∣manded the Army, beloved of the People, esteem∣ed of the Soldiers, and dreaded of the Enemies of the Empire. As he was no less to be feared for his vertues than his Father, he would infallibly have run the same fortune with him; but he quit∣ted * 1.23all his employments, and fled forthwith into Spain, where he sheltered himself from the perse∣cution of Valens, who upon the subject of suspici∣ons, was not of a humor to leave a crime imper∣fect. Altho the Emperor Gratian was at an age to apply himself to business, and was acquainted with the disgrace of Theodosius, whose deserts he knew, he left him in his Exile; and whether it was that he feared to displease his Uncle, or that he had not the force to express the passions of his Ministers, or else that things were concealed from his knowledge; and he would not put him∣self to the trouble of examining them himself, he abandoned the two greatest Captains of the Empire to the oppression and violence of their Enemies. Thus the best Princes, by a soft Poli∣cy, or criminal Laziness, become oftentimes as dangerous as the bad.

XLVI. Thoodosius passed some years in Spain, using this exile as a time of repose, and living obscurely with some of his Relations and Friends, till such time as the affairs of the Empire were embroiled in such a manner, that they were re∣duced to run to him, as the only man capable to establish them. I think my self obliged to recite here a little at large all these troubles, as well to give an account of the state of the Eastern Empire, and make the course of this History the more intel∣ligible,

as to shew the methods which God made use of to chastise the Emperor Valens, and to fix Theodosius in his place.

XLVII. Of all those barbarous people, that went out in multitudes from the Northern parts, and drove one another to the very banks of the Danube and the Rhine, there was none more for∣midable to the Roman Empire than the Goths. They inhabited originally a part of that wild and barren Country, which lies between the Northern Ocean and the Baltick Sea. Being weary of a place so unfruitful, and pushed on by their natural fierceness, they descended as far as the adjacent parts of the River Vistule, above three hundred years before the birth of Jesus Christ. There being encreased by a crowd of Vandals whom they had subdued, and finding themselves too much straitned, they extending their limits upon the Neighbouring States, and advanced since as far as the Palus Meotis, under the conduct of King Filimer, forcing all they en∣countred in their passage. The resistance which they found in this place constrained them to turn their course to another side, and to pass at length after many windings into the Country of the Da∣cians and Getes, where they remained some time in peace. The correspondence which they had there with people, that were more human and polite than they, having made them lose a little of their grossness, they imposed Laws upon them∣selves, and divided into two Nations under Com∣manders worthy to govern them. They that pos∣sessed the most Eastern parts were called Ostrogoths, or Eastern Goths, and acknowledged for their Kings the Princes of the Royal Family of the

Amales. They that inhabited towards the West took the name of Visigoths, or Western Goths, and disposed themselves under the Princes of the an∣cient Race of the Baltes.

These Barbarians, who were then no otherwise separated from the Provinces of the Empire than by the Danube, made oftentimes irruptions into Thrace, Illyrium, and Pannonia; notwithstanding as they made War in disorder, they were almost al∣ways beaten, and made no progress. But after they had been a long time either Enemies, or Al∣lies to the Emperors, they accustomed themselves to Discipline, and by serving the Romans they learnt to conquer them.

* 1.24 Division being introduced amongst them under the Empire of Valens, they came to an open War, there hapned a bloody Battel; Athanaric King of the Ostrogoths remained Victor, and Fritegern King of the Visigoths was defeated. The last had re∣course to the protection of the Emperor, who sent him a very considerable Relief. He overcame Athanaric at his turn, and as an acknowledgment to the Emperor, and so many Christians, who came to his assistance, he embraced the Christian Religion, and would have his Subjects do the * 1.25same. Valens did not lose this occasion of advan∣cing the Arrian Sect, pursuant to the Vow he had made at his Baptism. He sent forthwith to Fri∣tegern men that were passionate for this Doctrine, who inspired the Prince therewith, as also his Sub∣jects by the treachery of Ʋlphilas their Bishop, the first Inventer of the Gothick Letters, and Transla∣tor of the Holy Scriptures into his Language, which they had effected in the time of his Em∣bassies at Constantinople.

XLVIII. These two Kings began to re-unite, and demanded nothing more than Peace, after so many foreign and domestick Wars, when they were assaulted of a sudden both one and t'other, and expelled with their whole Nation from those Lands which they had conquered. A People un∣known, and till then enclosed between the River Tanais, and the frozen Sea, went out of their own Country, and dispersed themselves like a Torrent into all the adjoining Provinces.

They were the Huns, a Nation without Ho∣nesty, Justice, or Religion, hardned to Labour from * 1.26their Infancy, nourished with savage Roots, and raw Flesh, always encamped, and avoiding Houses as if they had been Tombs, wandering all day, and sleeping at night on Horseback, being accustomed to fall out with one another, and to be Friends again immediately, without any other Reason, than that of their natural Inconstancy.

* 1.27 Their innumerable Horse, and prodigious num∣ber of Chariots which followed them, loaded with their Wives and Children; their manner of fighting in round Bodies, and of rallying again, a moment after their defeat; the very figure of these Men, in stature small, but strong, and well compact; their Faces rugged, their Eyes but small, and Heads of an unsuitable bigness: all this cast a terror in the minds of People, who were not so barbarous as they.

XLIX. They attacked the Alains presently, who were constrained to seek their Friendship. They pushed on their Conquests as far as this side the Boristhenes, driving, or massacring all that made resistance, and extended themselves towards Da∣tia.

At the noise of this formidable march, all the Goths run to their Arms. Athanaric, who was the most exposed, collected all his Troops, and ad∣vanced himself towards the Banks of the River Danast, in order to dispute the Enemies passage. * 1.28He sent in the mean time several Parties above twenty Leagues beyond, to observe them, and to bring him the News. But notwithstanding all his Precautions, the Huns prevented these Parties, and passed the River by favor of the night, partly by fording, and partly by swimming. Altho' Athanaric had hardly leisure to put his Army in or∣der, yet he sustained their first Attack with abun∣dance of vigor: but as he saw himself over∣whelmed by number, he retired with as much of his Army as he could save, and gained the moun∣tains, where he retrenched himself, whilst the Ene∣mies amused themselves by laying waste the Plat∣countrey.

L. In the mean time the affrighted Goths advan∣ced all towards the Banks of the Danube; Videric King of the Grotungues, a Youth under age, came to join them under the conduct of Alathee, and Saphrax, two excellent Captains. They were too great a number to subsist in so small a space, and too few to oppose such powerful Enemies. In this Extremity they sent an Embassy to the Em∣peror Valens, humbly to request of him some Lands in Thrace, where they might live in peace under his protection, promising to serve him in his Wars, and to preserve themselves the Fron∣tiers of the Empire. The Affair was debated in Council. They that consulted the Publick Good, were of opinion to reject the Proposition, and re∣monstrated to the Emperor, that it was necessary ••o mistrust a People who had often broke their

Faith with him, and would become insolent, as soon as they should cease to be miserable.

Others, to accommodate themselves to the hu∣mor of the Prince, represented to him, that it was for his glory to give Retreat to the unfortunate; that he might encrease his Armies with a great number of these strangers; and that discharging the Provinces from the Recruits they were obliged to furnish, he might draw from them every year considerable Sums as a compensation. These Rea∣sons affected the Emperor. He granted the Goths their demands, and sent Orders to Lupicin Gover∣nor of Thrace, to furnish them with Necessaries, and to receive them into his Province, upon con∣dition still that they should enter therein without Arms, that they should not exceed the limits which should be set out to them, and that they should send their Male Children into the East, to be * 1.29brought up there in the exercise of Roman Dis∣cipline.

LI. Lupicin went as far as the Banks of the Da¦nube, accompanied with Maximus, Commander of the Foot. They saw King Fritigern arrive with his Subjects, and distributed Provisions to them, and some Lands to cultivate. The River at that time had overflowed, so that this multitude of Barbarians were many days and nights in passing over. Valens, as if he had secured the Empire, * 1.30thought he had no further need of the old Troops, levied no more new ones, and neglected the Re∣cruits, which he ordered to be paid him in money, to the value of fourscore Crowns in gold for eve∣ry Soldier. In a little time the Armies grew weak, and the Officers were discontented.

The Goths on their side began to want Provisi∣ons, and found themselves reduced▪ by the avarice of the Governor, to give their Goods, and sell their very Children for bread. They endured these Extremities, till such time as Despair made them begin to murmur. Lupicin, mistrusting a Re∣volt, being resolved at the same time not to relax, kept himself upon his guard, and got the Thracian Army together on this side. Alathée and Safrax, to whom Valens had refused to give Retreat, coast∣ed the Danube at that time, and finding some pla∣ces but ill guarded, made shift to get some Boats, and made their Horse pass over in disorder. As for Athanaric, he durst not ask any favor of the Emperor, who had hated him of a long time, and threw himself upon a quarter of the Sarmats, where he established himself by force of Arms.

In the mean time King Fritigern retained the Fury of the Goths, and dexterously managed the humor of the Romans, till he could discover his re∣sentment with more security. Having informa∣tion by Spies, that Alathée and Safrax had passed the River, and foreseeing that he should have oc∣casion for Horse, he marched towards them by small Journies, and By▪ways, to give no suspition of intelligence. At last he encamped near Mar∣t••anopol••, where Lupicin received him into his house, and entertained him magnificently. Whilst they were at Table, some Goths coming to the gates of the City to make their Provisions, the Soldiers of the Garison repulsed them; they grew hot on both sides, came to handy Blows, all the Burgesses took Arms, and the whole Camp of the Goths mutined.

The Governor being advertised of this disorder, was not much disturbed at it; and as he was

half drunk, he gave Orders softly to murder those * 1.31of the King's Retinue, who attended him in the next Hall. This Order could not be executed so secretly, but Fritigern mistrusted it, and even heard the Cryes of those whose Throats were cut. He arose from the Table of a sudden, without giv∣ing the Governor time to take any Resolution, and went out of the City under a pretence of shew∣ing himself, and to chastise the mutinous. As soon as he was in safety, he took Horse, and run every where to encourage his People to revenge. In a little time, the whole Nation rose up, and Valens had for Enemies those whom he lookt upon as his Hosts and Allies.

LII. They presently fell a ravaging the Coun∣try, and put several Villages to Fire and Sword. Fritigern let them satiate their first anger, after which he put them in what order he could, and made them march under their Colours▪ Lupicin on his side assembled his Troops, and thought his appearance would suffice to disperse this storm: but he suffered himself to be surprized, and this crowd of Barbarians without order, and hardly arms, having fallen upon him and his army, he made a scandalous flight. The Goths after having killed the greatest part of the Soldiers and Officers, took the habits and arms of the dead, and pillaged all Thrace without resistance. The Slaves which they had sold for necessaries, broke their Chains, and run to them from all parts. A Troop of * 1.32Malecontents came to joyn with them, and shewed them places where they might enrich themselves, * 1.33and where to retrench. At the same time an an∣tient Regiment of Goths, which had their Winter quarters at Adrianople, was expelled thence by the

Inhabitants, albeit it had no concern in the revolt, aad had always served the Empire with fidelity.

LIII. These Barbarians being full of indignation at this treatment, sent to their Companions for succor, and besieged Adrianople. They made several assaults, and were always repulsed. Friti∣gern, seeing that they consumed themselves in vain before this place, made them understand that they should fight with Men, and not with Walls; that it was of little importance to take a City, when they might gain several Provinces, where there was more spoils to take, and less dan∣ger to incur. These Troops, pursuant to the King's advice, raised the Siege, and dispersed themselves into Thrace, Moesia, and Pannonia.

LIV. The Emperor Valens was then at Antioch, where by the counsel of some Arrian Bishops, and applications of the Empress, he was employed in persecuting the Catholics. Some died in Tor∣ments, others were cast into the Orontes. The most holy Prelates were expelled their Churches, and Fire and Sword were carried to the very soli∣t••des of Egypt. The Pagans themselves were mol∣lified and reduced to pity: and the Philosopher Themistius went to find out the Emperor, to tell him, That he persecuted good men without reason; that it was not a crime to entertain different thoughts, and a belief different from his; that he ought not to be amazed * 1.34at this diversity of Opinions; that the Gentiles were much more divided amongst themselves, than the Chri∣stians; that every one had a prospect of the Truth thro' some place, and that it had pleased God to confound the pride of men, and to render himself the more venerable by the difficulty of knowing him. The Emperor was

touched at the discourse of this Philosopher, and diminished a little of that false zeal of Religion which had possessed him entirely. He received almost at the same time the news of the Revolt of Fritigern, the defeat of Lupicin, and the desolation of the Provinces. Then he repented of the Faults he had committed, and resolved to revenge him∣self for the ingratitude of the Goths, and to fall upon them with all the Forces of the Em∣pire.

LV. This Affair wonderfully disturbed him, because he had already many Adversaries upon his hands. The Sarasins were the most formi∣dable. They had lost their King some time since, * 1.35and the Queen Mauvia his Wife was left Regeut. Altho she was an Ally of the Romans, they began to trouble her, and thought they might with safety provoke a Nation, that was governed only by a Woman. She made her Complaints, and could receive no satisfaction. She broke the Alliance then her Husband had contracted with the Empe∣ror, took the Field with a puissant Army, and rava∣ged Palestine, Phoenicia, and that part of Egypt which is between the Nile, and the Red Sea. The Go∣vernor of Phoenicia presented himself often to op∣pose her passages, but he was always beaten, and lost the best part of his Troops. He must have recourse to the Count Victor, General of the Eastern Armies. This General advanced with a great Body of Horse and Foot, and slighting the Governor who came to join him, he ordered him to stand aside, and to leave him the honour of a Victory which he could not obtain himself. With this assurance he approached, gave Battel, and lost it; his whole Army was defeated, and himself had

perished▪ if the Governor had not run to disen∣gage him, and to favor his flight. After this Vi∣ctory, the Queen was in a condition to push on her Conquests further without controulment.

LVI. At the same time the Persians required the Emperor to abandon Armenia, which was a sub∣ject * 1.36of perpetual War between the two Nations. The Emperor sustained his Rights; and after di∣vers interpretations of the last Treaties, and seve∣ral Embassies on both sides, it was resolved to de∣termine this difference by Arms, which they could not decide by Negotiation▪ King Sapor sent Or∣ders to his Lieutenant-General to render himself Master of some places, and disposed himself to march at the head of an Army in the beginning of the Spring.

LVII. There was no less occasion to fear with∣in the Empire, than without. The Provinces be∣ing tired with the Tyranny of the Governors, and the persecution of the Catholicks, were upon the point to rise. Valens, who was afraid of being overwhelmed, dispatched Couriers to the Empe∣ror Gratian his Nephew for assistance, and made haste to satisfy the Persians and Sarasins, that he might have only the Goths upon his hands, and might collect all his Troops into a Body.

He gave immediate Orders to Count Victor to go and find Queen Mauvia, and to conclude a Peace with her upon any Conditions whatsoever. This Negotiation was more fortunate than War; for the Queen, who had as much Wisdom as Va∣lor, stopt the course of her Victories, and was con∣tented with having reduced an Emperor to fear her. Victor of his side managed the humor of that

Princess with so much ingenuity, running upon her admirable qualities, and making it an honour to be overcome by her, that in a few days she granted him a Peace, and even bestowed her Daughter upon him in marriage. Nevertheless, as she was zealous for the Christian Religion, which she had but lately embraced, she would not consent to sign the Treaty, before he had engaged to let her have for a Bishop one of her own Subjects, called Mo∣ses, who lived in the reputation of holiness in the * 1.37solitudes of Egypt. The Condition appeared very agreeable, and the Treaty was concluded and exe∣cuted almost at the same time.

Victor had Orders to pass into Persia, in order to terminate as well as he could the differences be∣tween the two Crowns, and to bring along with him those Legions which were in Armenia, as soon as there should be a Peace determined. The Em∣peror relaxed much from his Pretensions, and con∣sented to an Accommodation, which would have been scandalous, without a real necessity; it was even convenient to bear with some infracti∣ons of the Treaty, whereof it was not a time to complain, and to dissemble an Affair which was not at that juncture the most pressing. There re∣mained nothing more than to satisfy the People, which was done by repealing the exiled Bishops, and letting every one live in the exercise of his Religion without disturbance.

LVIII. Valens then thought his Affairs to be in a good posture, and was preparing to go from Antioch, when he received advice that Trajan, who commanded the Legions of Armenia, had attack'd the Goths in Thrace, that he had put them to the Rout, and chased them to the very Streights of

Mount Haemus; that he had gained the Defiles upon them, and had kept them enclosed for some time; but that hunger and despair having made them perform extraordinary things, he had been constrained to retire, and to abandon to them the passages. A little while after he learnt that Tra∣jan had joined Ricomer, a French Prince, that was sent from the West with some auxiliary Troops; that these two Captains had approached the Camp of the Goths, with a design to force them in their Trenches if it were possible, or else to fall upon the Rear-guard if they decamped in disorder, as they were used to do; that after they had ob∣served one another for a long time, they came to handy blows; that the Fight had lasted from morning till night; and that the number of the Barbarians having at last prevailed over the Valor of the Romans, Trajan had made his Retreat as a Soldier▪ and Ricomer was returned to the West, in order to bring a more considerable Re∣lief.

The Emperor was so much the more disturbed at this News, in that he learnt that a great many Officers were slain, and that the Goths securely made Irruptions to the very Suburbs of▪ Constanti∣nople. He dispatched a Body of Horse to Trajan, that he might keep the Field all the rest of Autumn.

LIX. In the mean time Gratian, in the impa∣tience he was in to relieve his Uncle, had made the greatest part of his Army pass towards Illyrium, and prepared himself to march in the midst of Winter to be in the East at the opening of the Campagne. He left Merobaudes King of the French in Gaul, to secure it; and knowing that the destiny

of Princes is in the hands of God, and that they ought to expect Victory rather from their Piety, than the Number or Courage of their Soldiers, he * 1.38had entreated St. Ambrose to compose for him a little Treatise of the True Faith, which he might read during his Expedition.

LX. But as he was upon the point of parting, the Germans thin••••ng to take advantage of his ab∣sence, passed the Rhine upon the Ice in the month of February, and began to destroy the lands of the Empire. For all they were above forty thousand men, this young Emperor shewed nothing of amazement; he made the Troops march, which he had retained in Gaul, and recalled those which * 1.39he had sent towards Pannonia. He advanced him∣self at the head of them, and encountring the ene∣my about Strasbourg, he attack'd them so seasona∣bly, and with so much resolution, that he gave them an entire defeat. There remained upon the place five and thirty thousand, all their Com∣manders, and their King himself being killed Gratian persued those that fled to the very Woods and Mountains, and compelled the whole Nation humbly to request a Peace, and to give as Ho∣stages all the young men of the Country, where∣by he reinforced his Army. That being done, he gave orders, and march'd by great journeys to∣wards Pannonia, notwithstanding he was extream∣ly incommoded with an intermitting Fever.

LXI. Valens on his side went very slowly to Constantinople; and gave out orders to his General Officers, who met him upon the Road. Trajan came before him, to give him an account of the condition of those Troops he commanded. As

soon as he appeared, the Emperor fell into a pas∣sion, and charging him with the loss of the last * 1.40Fight, reproached him outragiously for his small Conduct and Valor. Trajan heard these Reproaches without being moved; and as he was a person of great Piety, he replied to the Emperor, If we are overcome, my Lord, 'tis you that obstruct our Conquest. You make War with God himself, and God assists the Barbarians who are at War with you. 'Tis he that gives Victory to those who fight in his Name, and takes it away from those who are his declared Enemies. You will acknowledge that you are so, if you consider what the Bishops are, whom you have banished from their Churches, and those you have advanced in their places. The Emperor being offended at this discourse, was go∣ing to flie out; but Arintheus and Victor, the Gene∣rals of his Army, made him understand, that he had very sensibly touched a Man of Courage; that the zeal of Religion had made him speak; and that it was convenient to pardon this Remon∣strance, which was perhaps but too well grounded. Valens was a little pacified, and was contented with depriving Trajan of his charge of Colo∣nel of the Foot, which he had exercised with much Reputation.

LXII. At last the Emperor arrived at Constan∣tinople towards the end of May, with part of his * 1.41Army. The Goths continued their Courses to the very gates of the City, and to ransack the Coun∣trey as before. As for him he kept himself en∣closed, whether it was that he durst not undertake any thing before he had received News from Gra∣tian, or that he had a mind to chastise the City by Soldiers who consumed it within, and the Barba∣rians who pillaged it without; for he was not re∣conciled

to it, since it had taken the Tyrant Proco∣pius's part against him. Whereupon they began to murmur, and talk openly that the Emperor held intelligence with the Barbarians, and delivered his Subjects to them; insomuch that one day when he assisted at some Horse-courses, they cryed out on all sides, Let us fall to our Arms, and go out and * 1.42take the Field, whilst the Emperor diverts himself in the Circus. He was touched at these seditious words, and departed the City in anger upon the 11^th of June, threatning to return after the War, and de∣stroy it without remedy.

He retired to Melanthias, a Pleasure-house of the Emperors, some few miles from Constantinople. There, as he got his Troops together, he received Letters from Gratian, which purported to him the defeat of the Germans, and assured him of his sud∣den arrival with his victorious Army. In effect, he was upon march with his Horse, and came to Sirmium to attend his Foot and Equipage. On the other side, the Count Sebastian, who kept the Field with 2000 choice Men, had surprized several Par∣ties, and made a great slaughter of Goths near Adria∣nople.

LXIII. In the mean time King Fritigern judging that it was necessary to come to a Battel, ceased his pillages and wasting of the Countrey, and com∣manded all his scattered Men to come and join the gross of the Army, as well to prevent their falling into the Ambuscades of the Romans, as to accustom them to the discipline of the Camp. He sent Couriers to Alatheus and Safrax, to pray them to approach in diligence with their Horse. He en∣camped * 1.43no longer but in Plains, and near Cities, for fear of being surprized, or at a loss for Pro∣visions.

As soon as he had advice that the Em∣peror was near, he retired as if he had an intention to avoid the fight, and covered so well his march, dividing his Army into several different bodies, that the enemies Scouts could discern but a part of them. He had detached some Batallions, to seize upon the advanced Posts: and had cut off the provisions of the Romans, if he had not been prevented. In a word, he managed himself with so much prudence and caution, that one would have taken Fritigern for the Roman Prince, and Va∣lens for the Barbarian.

LXIV. As soon as the Emperor was come to Adrianople, they that had been sent to view the * 1.44Goths, reported to him that they were not above ten thousand men; that they were retired in dis∣order, and durst not be seen out of their Trenches. Then he believed the Victory was certain. At the same time Ricomer came from Sirmium, to ad∣vertize him that Gratian was upon the march, and that he would suddenly arrive. This young Prince wrote to his Uncle, and conjured him to attend him, and suffer him to partake at least the fa∣tigues and dangers of this War, if not the glory of it.

Valens assembled the Council, and put the affair into consideration: Victor, General of the Horse, was of opinion to precipitate nothing; and repre∣sented, that the Enemies were stronger than was imagined; that their Army might be encreased in a little time with an infinite number of Troops, that were dispersed in the Country; that they had a vigilant Captain, who knew how to make use of opportunities; that it would be a hard matter to force them in their Camp, or to defeat them

in battel with the single forces of the East; but that they might be assured of subduing them without recovery, if they attended the assistance of the Gauls. He added, that it was to offend an Emperor, who came in person to relieve them, to fight without necessity when he was upon the point of arriving. The chief Officers of the Army were of the same opinion.

Sebastian on the other side sustained, that it was necessary to give Battel forthwith. This was a * 1.45great Captain, lately come from the Western Courts, where he could not agree with the Mini∣sters. He commanded the Infantry since the dis∣grace of Trajan, and sought all occasions to signaliz•• himself in his charge, and to get into credit with the Emperor. As long as he observed this Prince to be amazed and irresolute, he advised him to continue near Constantinople with his Army; but as soon as he saw him disposed to fight, he propose•• to attack the enemy, whom he represented to •• weakned by his losses, frighted and trembling •• his Camp, and not in a condition to recollect his scattered forces. All the young men of the Court and Army took this part, some to comply with the Emperor, others to acquire glory; even many stirr'd up by a false emulation, cried out, that they would never suffer others to come and conquer for * 1.46them. Valens, who was assured of Victory, and was otherwise jealous of the reputation which his Nephew had acquired, chose the counsel which flattered most his passion, and resolved to go di∣rectly to the enemies before Gratian's arrival.

LXV. Fritigern on his side knowing that he should have two great Armies, and two Emperors upon his hands, if the Affair was not soon deter∣mined,

judged it convenient either to compound with Valens, or suddenly engage him to a genera Battel. Whereupon he sent Ambassadors to him, and made him reasonable Propositions in very re∣spectful and submissive terms. He hoped thereby that the Emperor would either grant him Peace, or that he would interpret his Submissions for marks of fear and weakness, and be the more desirous for Battel. The Bishop Ʋlphilas, who had the Secret of the Embassy, went without de∣lay to the Camp of Adrianople, where he was honourably received, and presently conducted to an Audience. He presented his Letters in pub∣lick, by which the King his Master, in the name of all his Subjects, requested the Emperor to leave undisturbed an unhappy Nation, chased from all parts, which had not taken up Arms but in extre∣mity, was ready to depose them, and considered only how to live and serve the Empire, and to ma∣nure in peace those Lands which had been afforded them in Thrace.

This Prelate had Orders to demand a secret Au∣dience, and to render a second dispatch into the Emperor's own hand, in case the first took no••ef∣fect. Fritigern wrote to Valens, that he was re∣solved to be his Friend and his Ally, and that he had endeavored to reduce the Goths to Reason; but that they were Barbarians, who could not imngine to themselves that they durst be assaulted; not∣withstanding there was nothing more to do, than to shew them the Army, and they would fubmit to all things, as soon as they were frighted with the name and presence of an Emperor.

LXVI. These Ambassadors were dismissed with∣out any Answer; and Valens was so much the

more impatient, inasmuch as he thought the Goths had an intention to shun him. He disposed all * 1.47things, and marched the next day, being the 9^th of August, at day-break, leaving all his Equipage near Adrianople, in order to make the more haste. He arrived about Noon in prospect of the Enemy, and put his Army in Battel-aray, all fatigued, as it was, with a march of twelve miles, through diffi∣cult ways, and an excessive heat.

The King of the Goths sent Deputies to the Em∣peror forthwith, to offer new Proposals of Peace; for as he was wise and ingenious, he feared the consequence of a Battel, and was desirous of get∣ting time whatsoever hapned, till the Cavalry, which he expected, was come up. In the mean time he visited his Camp, gave Orders to his Cap∣tains, and disposed his Troops behind an Intrench∣ment of all the Chariots of his Army. He gave directions for great Fires to be kindled throughout the Countrey, to the end that the Romans heated and thirsty by the sultriness of the day, coming still to breathe a burning Air, might be less in a condition to fight. At the same time he had ad∣vice that the Emperor had despised his Deputies, and would make no Treaty but with the Chief of the Nation. He sent him word that he would come himself, if he would before-hand dispatch to him some of the Lords of his Court as Hosta∣ges. This Negotiation made a kind of a Truce for some hours, during which time Alatheus and * 1.48Safrax arrived with their Horse, and formed two great Squadrons at the head of the Camp of the Goths.

LXVII. The Proposition of the King was ac∣cepted in the Emperor's Council, and they had al∣ready

deliberated upon the choice of Hostages▪ when the two Parties found themselves, as it were, insensibly engaged: for Ba••urius, Captain of the Iberians, who were placed at the head of the Right Wing, having perceived towards the Enemy's Camp a Body of Horse, composed of Huns, and Alains, detached himself without order, and imme∣diately run to charge him. The Barbarians, with∣out being moved, attended him, and repulsed him with great loss of his side; whereupon arose a great noise on both sides. Some Squadrons ad∣vanced to support the Iberians, who retired in dis∣order; but Alatheus suddenly thundred upon them, ••nd after having cut in pieces all that had the ••ourage to resist him, he pressed upon the rest so ••riskly, that he overturned Ho••se and Foot, and ••ut the whole Right Wing in disorder, insomuch ••hat it was never able to recover itself.

LXVIII. In the mean time Fritigern went out ••o Battel with a part of his Troops, and run head∣••ong upon the Right Wing, where were the Le∣••ions commanded by the Count Sebastian, and en∣••ouraged by the presence of the Emperor. Both one and t' other fought couragiously, but at last the Goths gave way; and whether it was that they ••ould not sustain the Enemy's Encounter, or else ••ad a mind to draw them near their Camp, that ••hey might not escape; they retired as far as the ••ntrenchment of the Chariots. There they stood ••irm, as if they had resumed new Forces. The Romans also made their utmost efforts to keep their ••dvantage: but some Companies of Archers who guarded the Camp, drawing upon them on one ••ide, and Alatheus on the other, who returned from persuing the Horse, charging them in the Flank▪

and an innumerable multitude of the Barbarians encompassing them on all sides, they considered no further than to sell their Lives as dear as they could.

LXIX. After having fought some time at a distance with flights of Arrows, they came to Spear and Sword. According as the Enemy got ground, they stood close, till such time as their Force being exhausted, and overwhelmed by num∣ber, they were for the most part cut in pieces▪ The Count Sebastian Colonel of the Foot, Vale∣rian Great Master of the Horse, Equitius nea•• Kinsman of the Emperor, and Great Master •• his Palace, a matter of five and thirty Tribunes▪ and an infinite number of other Officers remaine•• upon the place. The Emperor seeing this disor∣der, could not tell what to resolve on. Two Com∣panies of his Guards protected him with their Shields. Trajan was come to his assistance near his person, with the greatest part of the Volun∣teers, and cryed out that there was Relief a coming▪ But all things were in confusion. The Batavians▪ who composed the Body of Reserve, had take•• flight. Victor and Ricomer could not succeed i•• rallying their Men. Then Night being come, Tra∣jan advised the Emperor to save himself; and sustaining himself alone the whole power of the Enemy, he received several wounds, and gene∣rously dyed for his Countrey, and a Prince, who had abused, and shook him off not long be∣fore.

LXX. Valens, to conceal his flight, joined compa∣ny with some Soldiers, who fled as well as he. He advanced but little, because the night was dark,

and the Country covered with dead bodies; and to compleat his misfortune, he was hurt with an Arrow, by some rambling Barbarians, who shot at random wheresoever they heard a noise. He fell from his Horse, and was carried by some of his Domestics into a Country House they met in their way. They had no sooner stopt the blood, and laid on, as well as they could, the first appa∣rel to his wound, but a Troop of disbanded Goths came in disorder with a design to plunder the * 1.49House, without knowing its Inhabitants at that time. They attempted to force the doors; and as they found resistance, they renounced an Enterprize, which they thought not to succeed in, and where they did not expect to find much advantage. Not∣withstanding to revenge themselves of those, who opposed them in the House, they set fire to it, and passed on.

It was there Valens, overwhelmed with grief, and pressed with the remorses of his conscience, was burnt alive upon the ninth of August, in the four∣teenth year of his Reign, and the fiftieth year of * 1.50his Age. The Barbarians learnt his death by one of his Domesticks, who was saved from the com∣bustion, and were afflicted at the loss of an op∣portunity to make an Emperor Prisoner, and to make advantage of his Spoils. Such was the de∣plorable end of Valens. He had the fortune of evil Princes; hated in his life, and dying without being lamented.

LXXI. History reports, that since the battle of Cannae, the Romans had not sustained a more con∣siderable loss. There remained upon the place * 1.51above two thirds of their Army, the rest were dispersed and lodged in the Cities on all sides.

The Count Victor and Ricomer run with expedition to the Emperor Gratian, to give him advice of this defeat, and to hinder his advancement too far. In the mean time the Goths thought only how to gather the fruits of their Victory, and to plunder the Provinces, whereof they esteemed themselves masters. Gratian, touched at the loss of this battle, and his Uncle's death, which he understood at the same time, considered whether he should continue his March, or return. The Goths were powerful, he had but few Troops to oppose them; he lost the Empire, if he should be overcome. These reasons obliged him to re∣tire to Sirmium, till he should assemble greater Forces, or that in the heat of Pillage, division should arise amongst the Barbarians.

LXXII. In the mean while he reflected in his mind upon all the circumstances of this war; the blindness of the Court, who had taken for Defenders of the State, those who were its most dangerous Enemies; the imprudence of the Em∣peror, who had always either too much feared them, or too much despised them; the fatal ad∣venture of this Prince, who came to experiment the cruelty of those, whose Faith he had debau∣ched. He considered he had writ to him a little * 1.52before, That the blood of so many Martyrs, and the banishment of so many persecuted Bishops, was the true cause of the Revolutions of the Empire; that Princes could not assure themselves of the fidelity of men, when they are not themselves faithful to God; and that the ••nsurrection of an Arrian Nation, against an Arrian Emperor, was an effect of the divine Justice, which pu∣nished impi••ty by impiety it self.

LXXIII. To remedy these disorders, and to ren∣der Heaven favorable to him, he made forthwith an Edict, whereby he repealed the Bishops, that * 1.53were exiled for the Catholick Faith, and re-estab∣lished them in their Sees. He commanded Sapor one of his Lieutenant Generals, to go and execute this Order throughout the East, to chase the false Bishops from the Churches they had usurped, and to suffer none but those, who were in the Com∣munion of Pope Damasus. Notwithstanding judging it convenient to manage the humors of the People, and joyning Sweetness to Piety, he allowed every one the free exercise of his Religi∣on, and prohibited no public Assemblies but to certain Sects, which appeared to him either ridi∣culous, or scandalous.

LXXIV. After having delivered the Church from its Oppression, it was necessary to consider of means in order to save the State. Valens died without Children, and the young Valentinian, who had the Title and Quality of Emperor, was not yet of an age to exercise the functions of it; so Gratian alone was charged with all the cares of the Empire. He saw at the same time the Goths victo∣rious in Thrace, and other barbarous Nations rea∣dy to make an irruption into the Lands of the Empire. Being unable himself to suffice the whole, or to know where his presence would be most necessary, he searcht for a man that was ca∣pable to assist him in his wars, and to command in the East in his absence. He cast his Eyes upon Theodosius, whose Valor and Wisdom he was ac∣quainted with; and whether he had already re∣solved to associate him to the Empire, or only

designed to give him the command of the Army; he wrote to him, and sent him Orders to come forthwith to Sirmium.

LXXV. Theodosius was then in Spain, where he was retired, as we have already said, to avoid the Persecution of Valens, and the Envy of those Courtiers, who could not dispence with his Re∣putation, nor his Merit. He lived in his retreat without complaining either of Emperors, or his Fortune. Sometimes he was at the City amongst his fellow Citizens, composing the differences of some, assisting others in their necessities, obliging * 1.54all the world, and preferring himself to no one; sometimes in the Country, where he manured himself his Gardens, and addicted himself, with satisfaction to all the cares of Husbandry. Mak∣ing this advantage of his disgrace, he learnt to gain the Friendship of the People, and accustomed himself so well, to all the Offices of a civil life, that he retained the sweetness and modesty of a private person, even when he was raised to Sove∣raign Dignity. He was in this condition when he received Gratian's Letters; he put his domestic affairs in order, and departed a few days after.

LXXVI. In the mean time the Goths, after their Victory, went, against the advice of King Friti∣gern, * 1.55to besiege Adrianople, where they received information that Valens had enclosed his Treasures, and all that he had most precious in the Empire. They made their approaches tumultuously, and gave several assaults; but it was with so much precipitation and disorder, that they were always repulsed and lost their best Troops. They had won some Soldiers of the Garison, who were to

deliver to them one of the City gates; but the intelligence was discovered. At last being incom∣moded with the rains that fell several days toge∣ther, pelted with the Artillery of the besieged, and discouraged with the tediousness of the Siege, they passed as far as the Precincts of Perinthus, where they hoped to find a more considerable booty.

LXXVII. As they durst not attack this place, they plundered the Countty, and a pproached Con∣stantinople with a design to invest it, and to take it either by Assault or Famine. The Empress Do••i∣nica, the Wife of Valens, opened the public Trea∣sure, and encouraged so well, by her Discourse and Largesses, the Inhabitants and Soldiers, that they made a Sally, and charged a body of the Barbarians, which was advanced towards the Ci∣ty. The fight was bloody, and finished by an acti∣on which surprized the Goths, and cast a terror in∣to their whole Army.

* 1.56 Some Sarazin battalions which Queen Mauvia had sent to the assistance of the Empire, and which Valens had left in Garrison at Constantinople, where at handy blows with the Enemy, and the Victory was yet uncertain, when of a sudden a Souldier of that Nation was seen to appear with a Dagger in his hand, and muttering some dismal words. He went out of the ranks all naked, and falling upon the first Goth he met with, stab'd him in the breast, and instantly cast himself upon him to suck the blood which trickled from his wound The Goths amazed at this brutish action, which they took for a prodigy, fled in disorder, and had not the courage to assault the Sarasins.

LXXVIII. They were not more successful before Thessalonica, they attempted several times to be∣come Masters of this City, which was not in a condition to resist them: but St. Ascole the Bishop thereof, defended it by the sole vertue of his * 1.57Prayers. It is reported that a secret fear possessed these Barbarians, as soon as they approached; that they lost, without knowing for what reason, that na∣tural fierceness which they had at other times; and that the wisest of them were of opinion to abandon the attempt, and to leave undisturbed a * 1.58City, which God so visibly protected by the in∣tercession of this Holy Prelate.

At length after they had lost the Pillage of these three Cities, they threw themselves into Mace∣don, Thrace, Scythia, Mesia, and dispersed them∣selves as far as the Julian Alpes, which confine Italy on this side, ravaging all these Provinces, and leaving every where fatal Testimonies of their avarice and fury.

LXXIX. The East was going to fall into a like disorder, if there had not been a sudden stop put to the course of a Conspiracy, which was already formed. When the Goths were received in Thrac••, one of the Conditions imposed upon them was, that they should give up their Children for Hosta∣ges, and Necessity obliged them to consent to it. They hoped by that means to secure the fidelity * 1.59of their Fathers, and to accustom the Children insensibly to the Laws and Discipline of the Ro∣mans, in order to make both serve in the Wars of the Empire. Julius, who commanded in the East, was charged with the Education of these Barba∣rian Youths. He dispersed them in the Cities of his Governments, and instructed them, according to the Orders he had received from Court. Many

of them were already of an age to carry Arms, and notwithstanding the care which was taken to conceal from them the Victory of their Na∣tion, they came to understand the News.

Then returning to their nature, they concerted amongst themselves how to seize upon certain Ci∣ties, and to put those Garisons to the Sword who should not be upon their guard. Those that were together, advertised their Companions secretly, and the Conspiracy was suddenly to take effect. Julius had advice of it, and was resolved to prevent them. He visited the places, gave Orders to the Governors, and proclaimed throughout the whole extent of his government, that the Emperor, to gratify these stran∣gers, * 1.60and to engage them the stronger to the ser∣vice of the Empire, had commanded to distribute to them not only Money, but also Lands and Hou∣ses, and that they should be treated as natural Subjects.

The day was appointed for this distribution. The Barbarians hoping to take the advantage of the Money, and Favors which were to be allowed them, and to render their Rebellion more easy and secure, were softned a little. They came to the Cities whose Garisons were under-hand rein∣forced; and as they were assembled in the great Streets, some Troops that were lodged in the ad∣jacent Houses, fell upon them with their Swords, and slew the greatest part: the rest thinking to save themselves by the cross-ways, were knocked down with stones by the Citizens.

They did not so much as spare those who were not of an age to do an injury, and by an inhumane Prudence Julius delivered these Provinces from the danger they were in. The affair was manag'd with so much dexterity, and orders given and exe∣cuted

so opportunely, that this Massacre the same day went throughout the East, without the Goths conceiving the least suspition of it, or the possi∣bility of one's escaping.

LXXX. Things were in this condition, when Theodosius arriv'd at Sirmium. Gratian receiv'd him so much the more favourably, inasmuch as he was ashamed of having banisht him his Court, and that he was upon entrusting him with the most important affair of the Empire. He made him General of his Army, and dispatched him against the Goths with a part of those Troops he had in Illyrium.

Theodosius marched forthwith towards Thrace, where the Enemies were assembled in a vast num∣ber. He knew that several Companies of Alains, Huns, and Taifals, had joined them since their last Victory, and that they were of opinion to have reduced the Emperor to dare no further to appear in Field. But he learnt at the same time that their best Soldiers were disbanded, that the chief Officers were divided amongst themselves; that Fritigern was no longer Master of them, and that there was neither Order nor Discipline amongst such a heap of Barbarians, who were come to as∣sist them in their Pillage, and not to fight.

LXXXI. Then he advanced with much assu∣rance; and having encountred the Enemy, he gave them Battel, slew the greatest part, obliged the rest to repass the Danube, and went himself to carry the News of this defeat to Court. Theodo∣ret * 1.61reports, that Theodosius left so great a number of them slain upon the place, made so many Priso∣ners, and obtained so much Spoil, that being come

with an extream diligence to give the Emperor an account of his Victory, it appeared immediately incredible.

His Rivals durst accuse him of having been de∣feated, and of having fled himself; and Gratian being astonished, was at a stand how to employ his Faith. Theodosius entreated him to send his Accusers upon the place, to the end they might examine the truth, and give a testimony of it themselves. The Emperor, to satisfy his pressing Solicitations, charged persons of degree and repu∣tation to go forthwith and learn the particulars of this Action, and to return with a clear Infor∣mation to him.

LXXXII. The same Historian reports, that it was in this time that Theodosius saw in a Dream a Bishop, who put a Crown upon his head, and in∣vested him with the Imperial Robes; and that one of his intimate Friends, to whom he disco∣vered this Vision, assured him that it was a certain Presage of that Grandeur to which God would advance him.

The Bishop who appeared to him, was since known for Meletius Bishop of Antioch. This holy Prelate, by vertue of the last Edict of Gratian, was then returned to his Church, after a banishment of several years. The Confessors of Jesus Christ were seen to pass through the whole Empire, some followed by a Troop of Infidels whom they had converted, others delivered from their Chains, and bearing still upon their Bodies the glorious marks of the Torments which they had endured. They transferr'd even with honour the Relicks of those who died in their Exile.

The greatest part were received with abundance of Joy by the People, whose Conduct and Pro∣tection they came to resume. But as the Empe∣ror, notwithstanding all his Piety, had not Autho∣rity enough to make himself obeyed, there were some, who by the Cabals of Hereticks, under∣went more Misfortunes in this time of Peace, than they had endured in the time of Persecution. Many observing their Sees to be supplied with Arrians, offered to share with them the Govern∣ment of their Flock, upon condition they would reunite themselves to the Catholick Faith and Communion. Others were even ready to yield up their Dignity entire, in order to establish the Peace and Unity of the Church.

LXXXII. Amongst so many holy Bishops, it seemed that God had made choice of the most renowned, to give Theodosius the first hopes of the glory to which he designed him. This Presage was suddenly accomplished. For Gratian having learnt that the People who inhabited along the Rhine were entred into Gaul, and moreover find∣ing himself as it were encompassed with an inun∣dation of Barbarians, who were dispersed in the Provinces of the East, resolved to associate Theo∣dosius to the Empire. He considered that he must be unable himself alone to oppose so many Ene∣mies; that a Lieutenant discharged him but of a part of his Cares; that it was convenient to have a Collegue, who should have his Wars apart, and should defend the State, as his own proper inheri∣tance; that it would be more for his Reputation and Glory, to give one of his Empires voluntari∣ly, than to retain it with disturbance; and that he was happy in the possession of any thing, whereby

to recompense a great merit in the establishment of his own repose.

LXXXIV. The Friendship and esteem which he had entertained for Theodosius from his Infancy, de∣termined him still more; and the impatience which he had to go and relieve Gaul, where he was educated, pressed him to declare his design. But it was proper to attend the confirmation of the last Victory of Theodosius, to the end that his Rivals might themselves be obliged to approve his Election, after having suffered the confusion which their Calumny deserved.

* 1.62 This choice was so much the more glorious to Theodosius, inasmuch as he had not lookt after it. He was even modest enough to refuse this ho∣nour, when Gratian offer'd it to him; and this refusal was attended with so many marks of Moderation and Sincerity, that it was easie to judge it was no vain ceremony, but a real wis∣dom, which made him regard, as a difficult and hazardous employment, this Dignity, wherein is sought for the most part nothing, but the repose and pleasure of commanding.

LXXXV. About this time Ausonius was no∣minated Consul, altho absent, and regardless of factions to procure this honour. Gratian, af∣ter having advantag'd himself by his instructi∣ons, lost no occasion of testifying to him his ac∣knowledgment. He raised him to the charge of Questor, and a little after to that of Praefectus Praetorio; at length he declared him Consul, and forgot nothing that he could imagine to be most obliging, and most honourable.

He gave him for a Colleague Olibrius Gallus, a young man of a very noble and ancient Family: and as people were curious to know which of the two he named first; to favour Ausonius, without offending the other, he answered that he pretend∣ed to determine their rank, not by Birth, but Age, and the antiquity of their Praefecture. After that, he dispatched forthwith a Courier to Ausonius, to give him advice of his nomination to the Consul∣ship, * 1.63and wrote to him in these terms;

As I considered some time since to create Consuls for this year, I invoked the assistance of God, as you know I am accustomed to do in every thing I undertake, and as I know it conformable to your desire. I was of opinion, that I was obliged to nominate you first Consul, and that God required of me this acknowledgment for the good instructions I have received from you. I render to you then what is your due; and knowing that one can never acquit himself to∣wards his Father, nor towards his Master, I confess that I still owe you what I have endea∣voured to render you.

To the end that nothing might be wanting to the favour which he had done, he accompanied this Letter with a Present, and sent him a very glorious Robe, wherein was embroidered in Gold the figure of the Emperor Constantius, his Father-in-Law. And Ausonius on his side employ'd all the force and delicacy of his Genius to make in Verse and Prose, the Panegy∣riek of his August Benefactor.

LXXXVI. A few days after this action of Gra∣tian's, those who were sent to the Army arrived, and reported that the defeat of the Goths had been

very considerable; that the number of the dead, * 1.64and prisoners, and the quantity of spoils went be∣yond what Theodosius affirmed of them. Then his very Enemies were obliged to commend his va∣lour and modesty, and the Emperor thought it high time to share the Empire with him.

The End of the First Book.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Aure••. ••••∣ctor.
• * 1.2

  Ammian. lib. 26.
• * 1.3

  Ammian. lib. 26.
• * 1.4

  Ammian. lib. 28.
• * 1.5

  Ammian. l.
• * 1.6

  Ammian. l. 3. Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.7

  Ammian. l. 20.
• * 1.8

  Sozam. l. 6. c. 6. & 7.
• * 1.9

  Socrat. l 4. c. ••
• * 1.10

  Theod. l. 4. c. 31.
• * 1.11

  Theod. l. 4. c. 6 & 7.
• * 1.12

  Socrat. l. 4. ••. ••0.
• * 1.13

  Paulin. in vita Ambr.
• * 1.14

  Theod. l. 4. c. 7.
• * 1.15

  Zoz. l. ••▪
• * 1.16

  Ammi••n. lib. 29.
• * 1.17

  Sozom. l. 6. ••. 34. Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.18

  Amm••••n. lib. 29. Zoz. ••. 4.
• * 1.19

  Ammian. l. 31.
• * 1.20

  Ammian. l. 29.
• * 1.21

  Sozom. l. 6. c. 26.
• * 1.22

  Oros. l. 7. c. 33.
• * 1.23

  Ambros. in fun. Theod.
• * 1.24

  Sozom. l. 6. c. 37.
• * 1.25

  Theodor. l▪ 4. c. ult. Oros. l. 7. c. 32.
• * 1.26

  Ammian. l. 31. Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.27

  Claudian. in Ruff. in l. 1. Jornand. c. 24.
• * 1.28

  Ammian ibid.
• * 1.29

  Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.30

  Socrat. l. 4. c. 34. Sozom. l. 6. c. 38.
• * 1.31

  Ammian. l. 31.
• * 1.32

  Ammian. ib.
• * 1.33

  Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.34

  Socrat. l. 4. c. 32. Sozom. l. 6. c. 36.
• * 1.35

  Socrat. l. 4. c. 36. Sozom. l 6.▪ c. 38.
• * 1.36

  Ammian. l. 30.
• * 1.37

  Sozom. l. 6. c. 38.
• * 1.38

  Ambros. de Fide ad Grat.
• * 1.39

  Ammian. l. 31.
• * 1.40

  Theodoret. l. 4. c. 33.
• * 1.41

  Socrat. l. 4. c. 38.
• * 1.42

  Socrat. ib, Sozom. l. 6. c. 39.
• * 1.43

  Ammian. ib.
• * 1.44

  Ammian. ibid.
• * 1.45

  ••oz. l. 4.
• * 1.46

  Ammian. ••. 31.
• * 1.47

  Ammian. ibid. Idat. in fast.
• * 1.48

  Ammian. ibid.
• * 1.49

  Ammian▪ ••. 31.
• * 1.50

  Ammian. ib. Zoz. l. 4. Hieronim. in Ch••onic. Oros. l. 7. c. 33. Chrystost. Epist. ad vid.
• * 1.51

  Ammian. l. 31.
• * 1.52

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••. ••. de Fide.
• * 1.53

  Theod. l. 5. c. 1 & 2. Socrat. l. 5. c. 2. Sozom. l. 7. c. 1.
• * 1.54

  Pacat. in Panegyr.
• * 1.55

  Ammian. lib. 31.
• * 1.56

  Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.57

  Ambros. Ep. 59.
• * 1.58

  Ammian. ••▪ 31. Hier. Ep. 3. Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.59

  Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.60

  Ammian. l. 31. Zoz. l. 4.
• * 1.61

  Theod. l. 5. c. 5. & 6.
• * 1.62

  Claudian. Pacat. in Paneg.
• * 1.63

  Auson. in grat. act.
• * 1.64

  Theod. l. 5. c. 9.