The generall history of vvomen containing the lives of the most holy and prophane, the most famous and infamous in all ages, exactly described not only from poeticall fictions, but from the most ancient, modern, and admired historians, to our times / by T.H., Gent.

THE FOVRTH BOOK inscribed MELPOMENE. (Book 4)

Of Women incestuous, of Adulteresses, and such as have come by strange deaths.

NEver did my hand more compulsively direct my pen, nor my pen with lesse willingnesse blot paper, then at this present, being forced in this tractate, to lay open the frailties of this Sex, before so much commended. But his is my encouragement to proceed, because I can pro∣duce nothing out of History, to the disgrace of the bad and vicious, which adds not to the honour of the good and ver∣tuous. Were none soule, what benefit were it to be faire? and if none deformed, what grace could it be to be well fea∣tured? There were no honour to be ascribed to modestie, but that we see the dishonour of immodesty depending; nor to the temperate, but that we daily find the inconveni∣ences inherent to riot and excesse. Besides, were all alike faire, what praise were it to be beautifull? or if all alike chast, what admiration could be attributed to so rare a Vertue? As we see in the trying of metals there is the gold and the drosse; in the progresse of time, there is day and night, comprehending light and darknesse; in the creation of man, there is the immortall soule and the corruptible

flesh. And as it hath pleased the divine Providence, to provide a heaven and a hell, the one to crown the vertuous, the other to condemn the wicked: so there is a necessity of number to people both, nor are the torments of the one more feelingly apprehended, then in contemplating the joies and felicities of the other. Amongst artificers, vessels are made some for honour, and some for dishonour; in all estates there are the noble and the base; amongst Princes, the good King and the Tyrant; amongst subjects, the true liegeman, and the traitor; in schools, the learned and the ignorant; amongst Magistrates, the wise and the foolish; if one be bountifull, another is ava••itious and griping; if one pious and religious, others atheisticall and prophane; neither is the vilenesse of the one any a••persion or blemish to the other, but rather as a foile to set it off with more lu∣stre and beauty. Those therefore that are before presen∣ted, are to imitate: the rest that in this next book succeed, to beware and shun. For who so foolish, that seeing shelves and sands on the one side, and safe harbour on the other, will forsake the part of security, willingly to swallow him∣self up in the quick sands: therefore I wish you all to strive, that the beauty of your mind may still exceed that of your bodies; because the first apprehends a noble divinity, the last is subject to all trailey: and as the higher powers have bestowed on you the fairnesse above man, to equall that ex∣cellency of judgement and wisedome, in which man claims justly a priority before you, so it is both behoofefull and becomming your Sex, that your outward perfections should altogether aim at the inward p••l••hritude of the mind; since the first is accidentall and casuall, the ••ast stable and per∣manent, Besides, if beauty be once branded with the name of impudence or inchastity, it makes that which in it selfe is both laudable and desired, rejected and altogether despi∣sed. For vertue once violated b••ings infamy and disho∣nour, not only to the person offending, but contaminates the whole progeny; nay more, looks back even to the in∣jured ashes of the ancestors, be they never so noble: for the mind, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the body, in the act of adultery being both corrupted, makes the action infamous and dishonourable, dispersing the poi••on of the sin even amongst those from whom she derives her birth; as if with her earthly being, they had given her therewith her corruptions, and the first occasion of this her infamy. It extends likewise to the poste∣rity

which shall arise from so corrupt a seed, generated from unlawfull and adulterate copulation. How chary then ought a faire woman to be, to strengthen her bodily beau∣ty with that of the mind? Of what small continuance it is, and how nature hath disposed of your age, you should consider: the beauty of your Cradle you cannot appre∣hend, nor of your Childhood, and therefore in it you can take neither pride nor delight, or if you could, it is not yet perfect When you grow ripe for marriage, and that it be∣gins to attract you sutors and servants, it growes to bud, and is then commonly in the blossome, when you have made choice of a husband: as you begin to be the fruitfull mo∣ther of children, so one by one the leaves fade and fall away. Alas, how swiftly doth Age with wrinkles steal upon you, and then where is that admiration it before attracted? nei∣ther is that small season free from the blastings of disease, and canke•• worms of sicknesse, able to make the fairest a¦mongst you to look aged in her youth. Then may the choi∣cest of you with beautifull Lais, who when she saw the Lil∣lies in her brow faded, and the Roses in her cheeks wither'd the Diamonds in her eies lose their lustre, and the Rubies in her lips their colour (as being n••w grown in yeares) in these words, give up your looking glasses back to Venus.

Nunc mihi nullus in hoc usus, quia cernere talem Qualis sum, nolo, qualis eram, nequ••o. Now there's nouse of thee at all, Because I have no will To see what I am now; and what I was, I cannot still.

If then this rare ornament be of such small permanence, even in the best; How much then is it to be underprized, when it is contaminated and spotted with lust and unlaw∣full prostitution? since it is a maxime, That things com∣mon are so far from begetting appetite and affection, that they rather engender the seeds of contempt and hatred: for how should any thing festered and corrupt, please the eie? or that wich is rotten and unsound, give content unto the palate? But to return to my first Apology: needfull it is, that to the Tragick Muse Melpomene, I should suit Tragi∣call history, wherein if any women be personated for Incon∣stancy, Intemperance, Adultery, Incest, or any such vile and abominable action; she hath in that disgraced her selfe, not her sex, as stretching no further then the delinquent. It any

man object and say they are bad presidents, to him I an∣swer, they are examples of horror to be eschewed, not imita∣ted, which in their own natures beget a loathing, not liking: and for placing them next to and so neer to the women Il∣lustrious, I will excuse my selfe in this short Epigram.

A skilfull Painter having limm'd a face Surpassing faire, of admirable feature, Sets by the same, to give it the more grace, The pourtrait of some foule deformed creature. No doubt, as much art in the last is shown, As in the first, albeit that pleaseth most How ever to the workman 'tis 〈…〉〈…〉 They both to him ar•• of lik•• care and cost. 'Tis so with me, I have set before you many B••ave Ladies, of the•• all to take full view, Pleasing to th' eie 〈…〉〈…〉 Whom a more willing workman 〈…〉〈…〉) Should these appeare rough hew'd or of bad savour, And whose aspect cannot so well 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you, Perhaps the next of more delight 〈…〉〈…〉 And grinding other colours I'll pre•••••• you A smoother piece, and li•••••• (if I be able) A fairer face in a more curious fable.

Of women incestuous, and first of Q. Semiramis.

IT is questioned by some authors, concerning this po∣tent and mighty Queen, whether she be more renowned for her brave and magnanimous exploits, or notorious for her ignoble and infamous actions? some willing, that for her vertues sake, her vices should be utterly buried in oblivion; others in regard of what was bad in her, that no∣thing good or commendable might of her to posterity be re∣membred. I purpose to give you a taste of both. Some say she was called Semiramis, of the birds, named* 1.1 Semirami∣des, by which it is said she was fostered in her infancy: but that bearing no shew of truth, others derive her denomina∣tion from Samir, which in the Hebrew and the Syrian dia∣lect imports as much as Adamant; because her noble and brave atchievements, attracted the hearts of that barbarous

rude Nation, to her admiration and love, as the Adamant drawes iron. Plutarch in libro Amator. saith, she was a damo∣sell of Syria, and concubine to the King of that Country, with whose love Ninus being after besotted, took her to his wife; of whom she had that predominance, that though before he had conquered all the Eastern parts, subjugated his neighbour Kings, and subdued Zoroastres Monarch of the Bactrians (he that was the first inventor of the Art ma∣gick, that devised the principles of Astrology, and found out the true motions of the stars) notwithstanding she so far prevailed with him, that for one day she might sit in the roiall throne, and for that space have the regall jurisdicti∣on in her full power, with intire command over the whole Empire. In the morning of her soveraignty, she imposed up∣on the subjects such modest and mild injunctions, that ere noon she had insinuated into their bosomes so far, that she found them so pliable and conformable to her desires, that she presumed there was nothing so difficult and impossible, which for her sake they would not boldly and resolutely undertake. Upon this presumption, she stretched her usur∣pation so far, that she commanded them to lay hands upon the King her husband before night, and committing him to prison, caused him within few daies to be put to death. She had by Ninus one son, called Ninus junior, who should have succeeded his father, that for fifty two years space, had swaied the Babylonian Empire: but whether in her own ambition desirous of the principality, or finding her son too effeminate to be Lord over so great a people, and uncer∣taine withall, whether so many men, and of so many sundry Nations, would submit themselves to the soveraignty of a woman, all these suppositions being doubtfull, certain it is, that instead of the mother of Ninus, she assumed the person of Ninus her son, changing her womans shape into the ha∣bit of a mans; for they were of one stature, proportioned in lineaments alike, semblant in voice, and in all accomple∣ments difficultly to be distinguished, insomuch, that never mother and child could have more true resemblance: ha∣ving therefore lull'd her son in all effeminacy, and at••i••••d him in her Queen-like vesture, the better to shadow her own proportion, she suited her selfe in long garments, and com∣manded all her subjects to do the like; which habit hath been amongst the Assyrians, Bactrians, and Babylonians in use even to this day. Upon her head she wore a Turba•••• o••

Myter, such as none but Kings used to adorn their heads with: so that in the beginning; she was known for no other then the Prince, in whose name she accomplisht many no∣table and noble atchievements, at whose amplitude, Envy and Emulation stood amazed, confessing her in all her at∣tempts supereminent; neither did her heroick actions any way derogate from the honour of the Empire, but rather add to the splendour thereof, admiration, in regard a wo∣man had not only excelled all of her sex in valour, but might claim a just priority over men. She built the mighty City Babylon, and the stately wals, reckoned amongst the seven wonders.* 1.2 She not only conquered all Aethiopia, and made that Kingdome to her state tributary, but invaded India, being the first that durst attemptie; and saving her, no 〈…〉〈…〉 but Alexander, who was the second and the last. Thus 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Justin out of the history of Trogus Pompeius. Berosus affi••ms as m••ch, these be his words: Nemo unquam huic semi∣nae comparandus est virorum, tanta in ejus vita scribuntur cum ad vituperationem, tum maxime ad laudem. No man was ever to be compared with this woman, such great things have been written of her, partly to her disgrace, but chiefly to her praise. He proceeds further: She was the fourth that reigned in Assyria (for so it is approved) Nim••o•• was the first, being father to Belus, and grand-father to Ninus, which Ninus was the first that made war upon his neighbours, and usurped their dominions, in whom began to cease the Golden world: whom his widdow Queen succeeded, counterfeiting the shape of man. She was after slain by her sonne Ninus the se∣cond of that name, who as Eusebius writes, after her death swai'd the Scepter thirty and eight years. One memorable thing is recorded of her by Diodorus S. culu••, lib. 3. as also by Vitruvius. This Qu••en being making her selfe ready in her Palace roiall, when the one part of her hair was bound up, and the other halfe hung loose upon her shoulders, sudden∣ly newes was brought her, That the Citizens of Babylon were revolted, and all or most of them in mutiny and up∣rore. She presently posted into the City, and what with her presence and perswasion, atton'd the discord, and before she had leasure to put her disordered curls in form, reconciled the hearts of that innumerable people to her obedience: for which her statue was erected in the City, being pourtraied half ready, halfe unready, in memory of that noble and magnananous adventure. Something of the best that was

in her, though not all, you have heard, the worst is to come. Juba apud Pli. relates that she imitated the fashions of men, neglecting the habit of her own Sex, and in her latter years grew to that debauch'd effeminacy and sordid lust, that she did not only admit but allure and compell into her goat••sh embraces, many of her souldiers, without respect of their degrees or places, so they were well featured, able and lusty of performance, whom when they had wasted their bodies upon her, she caused to be most cruelly murthered. She was slain by her own sonne, because most incestu∣ously sought his bed: but, which of all the rest is most pro∣digious and abominable, she is reported to have company with a horse, on whom she unnaturally doted. But these things whether related for truth, or recorded of malice, I am altogether ignorant, and therefore leave it to censure. Herodotus, Plutarch, and others. wr••t, that she caused these words to be inscribed upon her Tomb. Quicunque Rex pecu∣n•••• indiget ap••••to monumento, quod voluerit accipiat, that is, What 〈…〉〈…〉 hath need of coin, search this monument. and 〈…〉〈…〉 find what 〈◊〉〈◊〉 desires. This when King Da∣rius 〈…〉〈…〉 thinking some magazine of treasure had been therein included, he caused the Tomb stone to be removed; where he found upon the other side thereof, these words engraven, Nisi Rex avarus esses & pecuniae insa∣tiabil••s mor••uorum mon••menta non violassis, i. Hadst thou not been an avaritioas King, and insatiable of co••n, thou wouldst not have ransacked the grave of the dead. Thus, as Franciscus Patricius Pontifex saith, the excellent Lady in her death ••••unted the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 avarice of the living. That the monu∣ments of the de••d are no way to be violated or detaced. Sertor••us hath taught us, who having subdued the City Ti∣genna, scituate in the Countrie of Maurusia, in which a noble sepulchre was▪ which the inhabitants said belonged to Antaeus (which was the gyant slain by Hercules:) when the greatnesse of the grave exceeded all beliefe, Sertorius caused it to be ruined, and there digged up a body (as Plu∣tarch witnes••e••h) of seventy cubits in length; which behol∣ding and wondering at, he caused it to be repaired with greater beauty then before, lest by diminishing that, he might have ruined a great part of his own honour.* 1.3 Some think it was the body of Tagenna the wife of Antaeus, whom Hercules prostituted after the death of her husband: of her he begot Siphax who after erected that City, and in memory of his mother, called it by her name.

Pasiphae.

THis Lady, though I cannot fitly introduce her within the number of the incestuous, yet for that horrid act which the Poets have reported of her, I shal not impertinent∣ly place her next to Semiramis Apollodorus Grammaticus in his book, de Deorum origine (as Benedictus Aeginus Spoletinus interprets him) thus sets down her history: Ninus King of Creet, espoused Pasiphae, daughter of the Sun and Perseis, or (as Asclepiades cals her) Creta, the daughter of Aterius, she had by him foure sons, Cretaeus, Deucalion, Glaucus and Androgeus, and as many daughters, Hecate, Xenodice, Ariadne, and Phaedra. This Minos peaceably to enjoy his Kingdome, had promised to offer such a bull to Neptune; but having obtained his desires, he sent that Bull before markt out, back to the herd, and caused another of lesse value to be sa∣crificed: at which Neptune inraged, knew not with what greater punishment to afflict him for the breach of his faith, then to make his wife most preposterously and against nature, to dote on that beast which he had so carefully pre∣served. She therefore confederated with Dedalus, a great Artsmaster (one that for murder had fled from Athens, and with his son Icarus there secured himselfe) he devised by his mischievous skill, a woodden Cow, hollowed within with such artificiall conveyance, that the Queen enclosed, had satisfaction of her desires, to the glutting of her libidinous appetite. Of this congression she conceived and brought forth a son called Asterion, or (as the most will have it) Mi∣notaurus, shaped with a buls head and a mans body. About this monstrous issue, Minos consulted with the Oracle; which advised him to shut him in a Labyrinth, and there see him safely brought up and kept. This Labyrinth (the first that ever was) was built by Dedalus, being a house so intri∣cated with windings and turnings, this way and that way, now forward, then backward, that it was scarce possible for any that entred therein,* 1.4 to find the direct way back; thus far Apollodorus: But Palephatus in his fabulous Narrations, reduceth all these commented circumstances within the compasse of meer impossibility; and thus delivers the truth concerning Pasiphae. Minos being afflicted with a disease in his secret parts, with which he had been long grieved, was at length by Crides, who belonged to Pandion, cured. In the

interim of this his defect and weaknesse, the Queen cast an adulterate eie upon a fair young man called Taurus, whom (Servius saith) was the scribe or secretary to the King; she prostituting her selfe to his embraces, when the full time was expired she produced her issue: which Minos seeing, and taking a true supputation of the time, comparing the birth with his discontinuance from her bed (by reason of his disease) apprehended the adultery; notwithstanding he was unwilling to kill the bastard, because it had a resem∣blance to the rest of his children, though an impression of the fathers face, by which the adulterer might easily be known. Minos therefore to conceal his own discontents, and as much as in him lay, to hide his wives shame, whom no en∣dearedly affected, caused the infant to be carried into a re∣mote mountain, and there by the Kings herds men to be fostered. But growing towards manhood, he likewise grew intractable and disobedient to those whose charge he was committed. The King therefore confin'd him into a deep cave digg'd in a rock of purpose, not to curb his fierce and cruell disposition, but rather encourage it; for whosoever at any time he feared, or whatsoever he was that had offen∣ded him, he sent him to this Minotaur, on some impertinent or other, by whom he was cruelly butchered. The cave was called Labyrinthus, and therefore described with so many intricate blind Meanders, in regard of the difficulty of his return with life, who was seen to enter there. Therefore when Theseus came to Minos, he sent him to be devoured by this Minotaur: of which Ariadne having notice, being ena∣moured of Theseus, she sent him a sword by which he slew the monstrous Homicide; and that was the clew so often remembred by the Poets, which guided Theseus out of the Labyrinth.

Canace, Canusia, Valeria Tusculana.

MAcareus and Canace were brother and sister, the sonne and daughter to Aeolus King of the winds (for so the Poets feigned him, because the clouds and mists arising from the seven Aeolian Islands, of which he was King, al∣waies pretended great gusts and tempests) he is reported to be the son of Jupiter and Alceste, daughter to Hyppotes the Tyrian, of whom he had the denomination of Hippotides. This Macareus and Canace, having most lewdly and incestu∣ously

loved one another, covering their bedding and bosoming under the unsuspected pretext of consanguinity and neernesse in blood: It could no longer be conceal'd by reason Canace at length brought forth a son, which as she would secretly have conveied out of the Court by the hands of her trusty Nurse, who had been before acquain∣ted with all their wicked proceedings; the infant by cry∣ing betraied it selfe to the grandfather, who searching the Nurse, examining the matter, finding the incest, and misera∣bly distracted with the horridnesse of the fact: instantly in the heat of his incensed anger, caused the innocent infant to be cut in pieces, and limb by limp cast to the dogs, and before his face devoured. This Macareus hearing, took sanctuary in the Temple of Apollo; but Canace by reason of her greennesse and weak estate, not able to make escape, and shun the violence of her fathers threatned fury: he sent her a sword, and withall commanded her to punish her selfe according to the nature of the fact. Which she recei∣ving, writ a passionate letter to her brother, in which she first besought him to have a care of his safety, and next to cause the bones of the slaughter'd infant to be gathered to∣gether, and put into an urn with hers: this having done, with the sword sent her by her father, she transpierc'd her self,* 1.5 and so expired. The like weread of Canusia, daughter of Papirius Volucris, who being found with child by Papirius Romanus her own naturall brother, when the heinousnesse of the fact came to the knowledge of the father, he sent to either of them a sharp sword; with which they as resolute∣ly slew themselves, as they had before rashly offended. The like successe of her incestuous affection had Valeria Tuscu∣lana, * 1.6 who as Plutarch relates, by the counsell of one of her handmaids comming privately in the night into the arms of her father, and the deed after made known to Valerius, he in detestation of the act slew her with his own hand.

Julia, the Empresse.

THese abominable sins that have been punisht in infe∣riour persons, have in great ones been countenanced. Sextus Aurelius, and Aelius Spartianus, both testifie, That Antonius Caracalla Emperour, doting upon his stepmother Julia, was often heard to say in her presence, I would if it were lawfull; at length apprehending his purpose, to

these his words, she made this reply: What you list to doe (O Emperour) you may make lawfull, Princes have power to make Lawes, but are not tied to keep any: by which words imbold∣ned, he took her to his bed, whose son Geta but a while be∣fore he had caused to be slain. Herodotus remembers us of one Opaea the stempmother to Scithes King of the Scythians,* 1.7 who likewise took her to his bed, and made her his Queen. So Berenices* 1.8 the sister of Ptolomaeus Evergetes was made part∣ner both of his bed and Kingdome. Arsinoe* 1.9 the sister of Pto∣lomaeus Philadelphus became his concubine. The like did Herod Antipas unto Herodias* 1.10 the wife of his brother Philip. We read also of one Leucon, who slew his brother Oxilochus King o•• Pontus for the love of his wife, whom he after mar∣ried. Faustina* 1.11 the sister of Marcus Antonius Emperour, be∣came her brothers paramour; on whom he begat Lucilla,* 1.12 whom he after gave in marriage to his brother L. Antonius. Theodoricus King of the Frenchmen, married the daughter of his own brother, whom he before had slain. And Pontanus remembers us of one Johannes Ariminensis, who espoused his own sister. Philip the brother of Alphonsus the tenth King of Spaine, forcibly married Christiana,* 1.13 daughter to the King of Dacia, his own brothers wife, all Christianity and Reli∣gion set apart. Volaterranus remembers us of one Stratonice,* 1.14 who being devishly doted on by Antiochus Soter King of Sy∣ria, his own father at his importunity gave her up into his sons incestuous embra••es. Virgil in his tenth book speaks of Casperia,* 1.15 stepmother to Anchemolus the son of Rhaetus, King of the Mar••ubians, who was by him adulterated. These pro∣digious acts have been encouraged by Kings, drawing their presidents from Jupiter, who vitiated Ceres, and married his sister Juno; when in my opinion, the industry of the Po∣ets in illustrating the escapes of Jupiter and the other gods, was aimed at no other end, then to manifest unto all men, That such deities were not worthy adoration, that were ca∣lumnized with so many whoredomes, adulteries and in∣cests.

The sisters of Cambyses.

THese might seem fearfull enough before related, but I will give you a short taste of some more abominable: I have shewed the examples of Lust, but these following are besides lust, polluted with unheard of Tyranny. Herodotus in

his third book speaking at large of the life and acts of Cambyses the great Persian King, and son of Cyrus, relates, that having shewed his puissance abroad in Egypt, Greece, and other places, to the terror of the greatest of the world: he caused his innocent brother Smerdis, to be secretly made away by the hand of his most trusted Praxaspes. The next inhumanity which he purposed to exemplifie unto the world, was the death of his sister, who followed him in his Camp to Egypt, and back again: being not only his sister by parents, but his wife also. The manner how she came to be his Queen, was as followeth; Before his time it was not lawfull, but punishable amongst the Persians, to marry into that proximity of blood: but Cambyses surprized with the love of his sister, and having resolved by what means so∣ever, to make her his wife, yet to colour his purpose, he sent for those honourable persons who were stiled the Kings Judges, being selected men for their wisedomes, and of great place and quality, as those that enjoy their offices Durante via, unlesse some capitall crime be proved against them; besides, they are the expounders of the Lawes, and to their causes all matters of doubt and controversie are re∣ferred. These being convented, The King demanded of them, Whether they had any one law amongst so many, which licenc'd a man (that had a will so to do) to contract matrimony with his sister? to whom the Judges thus inge∣niously answered: We have indeed no Law which gives licence for a brother to marry with a sister, but we have found a Law (O Soveraigne) which warrants the King of Persia to do what∣soever liketh him best. Thus they without abrogation of the Persian Laws, soothed the Kings humor, and preserv'd their own honours and lives, who had they crost him in the least of his designs, had all undoubtedly perished: This he made the ground for the marriage of the first, and not long after he adventured upon the second The younger of these two who attended him into Egypt, he slew, whose death, as that of her brother Smerdis, is doubtfully reported. The Graeci∣ans write, that two whelps, the one of a Lion, the other of a Dog, were brought before Cambyses to sight and try maste∣ries, at which sight the young Lady was present: but the Li∣on having victory over the Dog, another of the same ••itter broke his chain, and taking his brothers part, they two had superiority over the Lyon. Cambyses at this sight taking great delight, she then sitting next him, upon the sudden

fell a weeping: this the King observing, demanded the oc∣casion of her teares, she answered, it was at that object to see one brother so willing to help the other, and therefore she wept to remember her brothers death, and knew no man then living that was ready to revenge it; and for this cause (say the Greeks) she was doom'd to death by Camby∣ses. The Egyptians report it another way; That she sitting with her brother at table, out of a sallet dish took a lettice, and pluckt off leafe by leafe, and shewing it to her husband, asked him, Whether a whole lettice or one so despoiled, shewed the better? who answered, a whole one: then (said she) behold how this lettice now unleaved looketh, even so hast thou disfigured and made naked the house of King Cyrus. With which words he was so incensed, that he kicked and spurned her (then being great with child) with that violence, that she miscarried in her child birth, and died ere she was delivered: and these were the murderous ef∣fects of his detestable incest.

Of Livia Horestilla, Lollia Paulina, Cesonia, &c.

IT is reported of the Emperour Caligula, that he had not onely illegall and incestuous converse with his three na∣turall sisters, but that he after caused them before his face to be prostitued by his ministers and servants, thereby to bring them within the compasse of the Aemilian Law, and convict them of adultery.* 1.16 He vitiated Livia Horestilla, the wife of C. Pisonius,* 1.17 and Lollia Paulina, whom he caused to be divorced from her husband C. Memnius,* 1.18 both whose beds within lesse then two years he repudiated,* 1.19 withall interdi∣cting the company and society of man for ever. Caesonia he loved more affectionately, insomuch, that to his familiar friends (as boasting of her beauty) he would often shew her naked. To add unto his insufferable luxuries, he defloured one of the vestall virgins.* 1.20 Neither was the Emperor Com∣modus much behind him in devilish and brutish effemina∣cies, for he likewise strumpeted his own sisters, and would wittingly and willingly see his mistresses and concubines a∣bused before his face, by such of his favourites as he most graced: he kept not at any time lesse then to the number of three hundred, for so Lampridius hath left recorded. Gor∣dianus junior (who was competitio•• with his father in the Empire) kept two and twenty concubines,* 1.21 by each of which

he had three or foure children at the least, therefore by some called the Priamus of his age, but by others in derisi∣on, the Priapus. The Emperor Proculus took in battell a hundred Sarmatian virgins, and boasted of himselfe that he had got them all with child in lesse then fifteen daies: this Vopiscus reports, and Sabellicus. But a great wonder is that which Johannes Picus Mirandula relates of Hercules, as that he l••y with fifty daughters of Lycomedes in one night, and got them all with child with forty nine boies, only failing in the last, for that proved a girle.

Jocasta.

APollodorus Atheniensis in his third book, De deorum ori∣gine, records this history. After the death of Amphion King of Thebes, Laius succeeded, who took to wife the daughter of Menocoeas, called Jocasta, or (as others write) Epicasta. This Laius being warned by the Oracle, that if of her he begat a son, he should prove a Parricide, and be the death of his father; notwithstanding, forgetting himselfe in the distemperature of wine, he lay with her; the same night she conceived, and in processe brought forth a male issue, whom the King caused to be cast out into the moun∣tain Cytheron, thinking by that means ••o prevent the predi∣cted destiny Polybus the herdsman to the King of Corinth, finding this infant, bore it home to his wife Periboea, who nursed and brought it up as her own, and causing the swel∣ling of the feet (with which the child was then troubled) to be cured, they grounded his name from that disease, and called him Oedipus. This in••ant as he had increased in years, so he did in all the perfections of nature, as well in the accomplishments of the ••ind as the body; insomuch, that as well in capacity and volubility of speech, as in all active and generous exercises, he was excellent above all of his age, his vertues being generally envied by such as could nor equall them, they thought to disgrace him in something, and gave him the contemptible name of coun∣terfeit and bastard: this made him curiously inquisitive of his supposed mother, and she not able in that point to resolve him, he made a journy to Delphos, to consult with the Ora∣cle, about the true knowledge of his birth and parents, which forewarned him from returning into his own Coun∣trie, because he was destined not only to be the deaths-man

of his father, but to add misery unto mischiefe, he was like∣wise born to be incestuous with his mother. Which to pre∣vent: and still supposing himselfe to be the son of Polybus and Peribaea, he forbore to return to Corinth, and hiring a Chariot, took the way towards Phocis. It hapned that in a strait and narrow passage meeting with his father Laius, and Polyphontes his Charioter, they contended for the way, but neither willing to give place, from words they fell to blowes: in which contention, Polyphontes kill'd one of the horses that drew the Chariot of Oedipus: at which inraged, he drew his sword, and first slew Polyphontes, and next Laius, who seconded his servant, and thence took his ready way towards Thebes. Damasistratus King of the Plataeenses, find∣ing the body of Laius, caused it to be honourably interred. In this interim, Creon the son of Menecoeus in this vacancy, whilst there was yet no King, invades Thebes, and after much slaughter, possesseth himselfe of the Kingdome. Juno, to vex him the more, sent thither the monster Sphinx, born of E••hidna and Tiphon; she had the face of a woman, the wings of a fowle, and the breast, feet and taile of a Lion: she having learned certaing problems and aenigmas of the muses, disposed her selfe in the mountaine Phycaeus, The riddle that she proposed to the Thebans,* 1.22 was this, What creature is that which hath one distinguishable voice, that first walkes upon four, next two, and lastly upon three feet, and the more legs it hath, is the lesse able to walk? The strict condi∣tions of this monster, were these, that so often as he deman∣ded the solution of this question, till it was punctually re∣solved, he had power to chuse out any of the people where he best liked, whom he presently devoured: but they had this comfort from the Oracle, That this Aenigma should be no sooner opened, and reconciled with truth, but they should be freed from this misery, and the monster himselfe should be destroied. The last that was devoured, was Aemon son to King Creon, who fearing lest the like sad fate might extend it selfe to the rest of his issue, caused proclamation to be made, That whosoever could expound this riddle, should marry Jocasta the wife of the dead King Laius, and be peaceably invested in the Kingdome: this no sooner came to the ears of Oedipus, but he undertook it, and resol∣ved it thus: This creature (saith he) is man, who of all o∣ther hath only a distinct voice, he is born four footed, as in his infancy crawling upon his feet and hands, who growing

stronger, erects himselfe, and walkes upon two only, but growing decrepit and old, he is fitly said to move upon three, as using the help of his staffe. This solution was no sooner published, but Sphinx cast herselfe headlong from the top of that high Promontory, and so perished, and Oedi∣pus by marrying the Queen, was with a generall suffrage instated in the Kingdome. He begot of her ••wo sons and two daughters, E••eocles and Pol••n••ces, Ism••ne and Antigone (though some write that Oedipus had these children by Ru∣rigenia, the daughter of Hyperphantes) These former cir∣cumstances after some years, no sooner came to light, but Jocasta in despair strangled her selfe; Oedipus having torn out his eies, was by the people expulsed Thebes, cur∣sing at his departure, his children for suffering him to un∣dergo that injury: his daughter Antigone lead him as far as to Colonus, a place in Attica, where there is a grove ce∣lebrated to the Eumenides, and there remained, till he was removed thence by Theseus, and soon after died. And these are the best fruits that can grow from so abominable a root. Of the miserable end of his incestuous issue, he that would be further satisfied, let him read Sophocles, Apollo∣dorus and others. O•• him Tyresias thus prophesied:

—Neque hic laetabitur Calibus & eventis suis: nam factus, &c. No comfort in his fortunes he shall find, He now sees clearly, must at length be blind, And beg, that's now a rich man, who shall stray Through forrein Countries for his doubtfull way Still gripping with his staffe▪ The brother, he, And father of his children (both) shall be: His mothers son, and husband: first strike dead His father, and adulterate next his bed.

Crithaeis.

SHE was wife to one Phaemius a schoolmaster,* 1.23 and mo∣ther to Homer, Prince of the Greek Poets. Ephorus of Coma, in a book intiteled the Cumaean Negotiation, leaves her story thus related: Atelles, Maeones, and Dius, three bro∣thers, were born in Cuma; Dius being much indebted, was forced to remove thence into Ascra, a village of Boeotia, and there of his wife P••cemed••, he begot Hesiodus. Atelles in his own Country dying a naturall death, committed the pupil∣lage

of his daughter Crithaeis, to his brother Maeones: but comming to ripe growth, she being by him vitiated, and proving with child, both fearing the punishment due to such an offence, she was conferred upon Phaemius, to whom she was soon after married: and walking one day out of the City to bath her selfe in the river Miletus, she was by the stood side delivered of young Homer, and of the name thereof called him M••lesigines. But after losing his sight, he was called Homer, for such of the Cumaeans and Ionians are called Omouroi.* 1.24 Aristotle he writes contrary to Ephorus, that what time Neleus the son of Codrus was President in Io∣nia of the Collony there then newly planted, a beautifull Virgin of this Nation was forced and de••••oured by one of the Genius's which used ••o dance with the Muses, who after rem••ved to a place called Aegina, and meeting with cer∣tain forragers and robbers that made sundry incursions in∣to the Country, she was by them surprized and brought to Smyrna, who presented her to Meonides a companion to the King of the Lydians; he at the first sight inamoured of her beauty, took her to wife, who after sporting her selfe by the banks of Mil••rus brought forth Homer, and instantly expi∣red. And since we had occasion to speak of his mother, let it not seem altogether impertinent, to proceed a little of the son: who by reason of his being hurried in his childhood from one place to another, and ignorant both of his Coun∣try and parents, went to the Oracle to be resolved concer∣ning them both, as also, his future fortunes; who returned him this doubtfull answer,

Foel••x & miser ad sortemes quia natus utramque, Perquiris patrians, matris tibi non patris c••••tat, &c. Happy and wretched, both must be thy fate, That of thy Country dost desire to heare; Known is thy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 clime, thy fathers not An Island in the sea, to Creet not neer, Nor yet far ••ss, in which thou shalt expire, When 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a riddle shalt to thee propose, Whose dark Aenigma thou canst not acquire. A double Fate thy life hath, thou shalt lose Thine eies: yet shall thy lofty Muse ascend, And in thy death, thou life have without end.

In his later daies he was present at Thebes at their great feast called Saturnalia, and from thence comming to Ius, and sitting on a stone by the water port, there landed some

fishermen, whom Homer asked what they had taken, but they having got nothing that day, but for want of other work only lousing themselves, thus merily answered him:

Non capta afferimus: fuerant quae capta relictis. We bring with us those that we could not find, But all that we could catch we l••ft behind.

Meaning, that all such vermine as they could catch they cast away, but what they could not take they brought along. Which riddle when Homer could not unfold, it is said that for very griefe he ended his life. This unmatchable Poet whom no man regarded in his life, yet when his works were better considered of after his death, he had that ho∣nour, that seven famous Cities contended about the place of his birth, every one of them appropriating it unto them∣selves: Pindarus the Poet makes question whether he were of Chius or Smyrna; Simonides affirms him to be of Chius; Antimachus and Nicander of Colophon; Aristotle the Phi∣losopher to be of Ius; Ephorus the Historiographer that he was of Cuma. Some have been of opinion that he was born in Salamine, a City of Cipria; others, amongst the Argives; Aristarchus and Dyo••isius Thrax, derive him from Athens, &c. But I may have occasion to speak of him in a larger work, intituled. The lives of all the Poets, Modern and Forreign, to which work (if it come once againe into my hands) I shall refer you, concluding him with this short Epitaph:

An Epitaph upon Homer the Prince of Poets. In Colophon some think thee (Homer) borne, Some in faire Smyrna, so••e in Ius isle, Some with thy birth rich Chius would adorn, Others say, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a first on thee did smile. The Argives lay claim to thee, and aver Thou art their Country man,* 1.25 Aemus saies no. Strong Salamine saith thou tookest life from her. But Athens, thou to her thy Muse dost owe, (As there first breathing.) Speak, how then shall I Determine of thy Country by my skill, When Oracles would never? I will try, And Homer (well thou give me leave) I will The spatious Earth then for Country chuse, No mortall for thy mother, but a Muse.

〈◊〉〈◊〉 the sister of Nereus the Sea-god, was by him stupra∣ted•• of whom he begot the Nymphs called Nercides; Ovid in

his sixt book Metamorph, telleth us of Philomela daughter to Pandion King of Athens, who was forced by Tereus King of Thrace, the son of Mars, and the Nymph B••stonides, though he had before married her own dear and naturall sister, Progne: the lamentable effects of which incest, is by the same Author elegantly and at large described: as like∣wise Beblis the daughter of Miletus and Cyane, who after she had sought the embraces of her brother Caumus, slew her selfe. Mirrha daughter to Cyniras King of the Cyprians, lay with her father, and by him had the beautifull child Adonis. Europa the mother, and Pelopeia the daughter, were both corrupted by Thyestes. Hypermestra injoied the company of her brother, for whom she had long languished. Menephron most barborously frequented the bed of his mother; against whom Ovid in his Metamorph. and Quintianus in his Cleopol. bitterly inveigh. Domitius Calderinus puts us in mind of the Concubine of Amintor, who was injoied by his son Phaenix. Rhodope the daughter of Hemon, was married to her father, which the gods willing to punish, they were (as the Poets feign) changed into the mountains, which still bear their names. Caeleus reports of one Policaste, the mother of Perdix a hunts-man, who was by him incestuously loved, and after injoied. Lucan in his eight book affirms, that Cleopatra was polluted by her own brother, with whom she communicated her selfe as to a husband. Nictimine was comprest by her father Nictus, King of Aethiopia. Martial in his twelfe book, writing to Fabulla, accuseth one Themison of incest with his sister. Plin. lib. 28. cap. 2. speaks of two of the Vestals, Thusia and Copronda, both convicted of incest; the one buried a∣live, the other strangled. Publius Claudius was accused by M. Cicero, of incest with his three sisters Sextus Aurelius writes, that Agrippina the daughter of Germanicus had two children by her brother Claudius Caesar, Cornalius Tacitus saith, that she often communicated her body with her own son Nero, in his cups and heat of wine: he after commanded her womb to be ripped up, that he might see the place where he had laien so long before his birth; and most deservedly was it inflicted upon the brutish mother, though unnaturally imposed by the inhumane son. Ansilaena is worthily repoved by Catullus for yielding up her body to the wanton imbraces of her un∣cle, by whom she had children. Gidica the wife of Pomo∣nius Laurentius, doted on her son Cominus even to incest, but by him refused, she strangled her selfe. The like did Pheora,

being despised by her son Hippolitus. Dosithaeus apud Plu∣tarch, speaks of Nugeria the wife of Hebius, who contemned by her son in Law Firmus, prosecuted him with such violent and inveterate hate, that she first sollicited her own sons to his murder; but they abhorring the vilenesse of the fact, she watcht him sleeping, and so slew him. John Maletesta depre∣hending his wife in the arms of his brother Paulus Maletesta, transpierc'd them both with his sword in the incestuous a∣ction. Clepatra daughter to Dardanus King of the Scythians, and wife to Phinaeus, was forced by her two sons in law: for which fact their father caused their eies to be plucked out. Plutarch reports of Atossa, that she was doted on by Artax∣erxes, insomuch, as that after he had long kept her as his strumpet, against the Laws of Persia and of Greece, to both which he violently opposed himself he made her his Queen. Curtius writes of one Si simithres a Persian souldier, that had two children by his mother. Diogenian also speaking of Se∣cundus the Philosopher, saith, that he (unawares to them both) committed incest with his mother, which after being made known to them, she astonied with the horror of the fact, immediately slew her selfe, and he, what with the sor∣row for her death, and brutishnesse of the de••d, vowed ne∣ver after to speak word, which he constantly performed to the last minute of his life.* 1.26 Manlius in his common places reports from the mouth o•• D Martin Luther, that this acci∣dent hapned in Erph••rst in Germany: There was (saith he) a maid of an honest family, that was servant to a rich widdow, who had a son that had many times importuned the girle to lewdnesse, insomuch, that she had no other way to avoid his continuall suggestions, but by acquainting the mother with the dissolute courses of the son. The widdow considering with her self, which was the best course to childe his libidirous purpose, and divert him from that lewd course, plotted with the maid to give him a seeming con∣sent, and so appoint him a place and time in the night, of meeting, at which he should have the fruition of what he so long had sued for: she her selfe intending to supply the place of her servant, to school her son, and so prevent any inconvenience that might futurely happen. The maid did according to her appointment, the son with great joy keeps his houre, so did the mother, who came thither on purpose to reform her son; but he being hot and too forward in the action, and she overcome, either by the inticements of the

devill, the weaknesse of her Sex, or both, gave her selfe up to incestuous prostitution, the young man knowing no o∣therwise but that he had enjoied the maid. Of this wicked and abominable congression, a woman child was begot, of whom the mother (to save her reputation) was secretly de∣livered, and put it out privately to nurse, but at the age of seven years, took it home. When the child grew to years, the most infortunate sonne fell in love with his sister, and daughter, and made her his unhappy wife: what shall I think of this detestable sinne, which even beasts themselves abhor?* 1.27 of which I will give you present instance. Aristotle in his history Animal. who was a diligent searcher into all naturall things, affirms, that a Camel being bli••ded by his keeper, was brought to horse his dam, but in the action, the cloth falling from his eies, and he perceiving what he had done, presently seised upon his keeper and slew him, in detestation of the act he had committed, and to revenge himselfe upon him that had betraied him to the deed. The like the same author reports of a horse belonging to a King of Scythia, who could by no means be brought to cover his dam, but being in the same fashion beguiled, and the cloath falling away, and perceiving what he had done, never left bounding, flinging and galloping, till comming unto an high rock, he from thence cast himselfe headlong into the sea. If this sinne be so hatefull in brute beasts and unreaso∣nable creatures, how much more ought it to be avoi∣ded in men and women, and which is more, Chrisio∣ans.

Cyborea, the mother of Judas Iscariot.

THis that I now speak of is remembred by Ranulphus, Monke of Chester, Jerome, and others. There was a man in Jerusalem, by name R••uben, of the Tribe of Isachar, his wife was called Cyborea: The first night of their marri∣age, the women dreamed that she was conceived of a sonne, who should be a traytor to the Prince of his own people: she told it to her husband, at which they were both sad and pensive. The child being born, and they not willing to have it slain, and yet loath to have it prove such a monster to his own nation, they in a small boat cast it to sea to try a despe∣rate fortune: This vessell was diven upon an Island called Iscariot, where the Queen of that place had then no child.

This babe being found, she purposed to make it her own, and put it to be nobly nursed and educated, calling his name Judas, and Iscariot of the Island where he was taken up. But not long after, she was conceived of a son, who proving a noble and hopefull Gentleman, Iudas (whose favour in Court began to wane, and his hope of inheritance, which but late flourishe now quite to wither) he plotted against his life, and privately slew him: but fearing lest the murder in time might be discovered, and he compell'd to suffer according to the nature or the fact, he fled thence to Jerusalem where he got into the service of Pontius Pila∣tus, and found means to be protected by him, being then in the City, Deputy Governour of the Romans. Iudas (because their dispositions were much of one condition) grew into his especiall familiarity and favour. The Palace of Pilat having a faire bay window, whose prospect was into R••ub••ns Or∣chard, he had a great appetite to eat of some of those ripe Apples, which shewed so yellow and faire against the Sun. This Iudas understanding, promised him to fetch him some of that fruit, and mounting over the Orchard wall, he was met by his father, who rebuking him for the injury, Iudas with a stone beat out his brains, and unseen of any, conveied himselfe back. Reubens death was smothered, and the murde∣rer not known. Cyborea being a rich widow, Pilate made a march betwixt her and his servant Iudas, who being marri∣ed to his mother, was now possest of his own fathers inheri∣tance. Not long this incestuous couple had lived together, but Cyborea being upon a time wondrous sad and melan∣choly, and Iudas demanding the cause, she began to relate to him her many misfortunes; First, of her dream, them of her son in what manner he was put to sea, then how she lost her husband being slain, and the murderer not found; and lastly, how by the authority of Pilat she was now com∣pell'd to match against her will, who had protested to her selfe a lasting widdowhood. By these circumstances, Judas most assuredly knew that he had slain his father, and had married his mother; which acknowledging to her, she per∣swaded him to repent him of these great evils, and to be∣come a Disciple of Jesus, who was then an eminent prophet amongst he Jewes. It shall nor be amisse to speak a word or two or Pilat. It is said that a King whose name was Tyrus, begat him on a Millers daughter, Lyla, whose father was called A••us,* 1.28 who from his mother and grand-father, was

called Pylatus, at four years of age he was brought to his father, who by his lawfull wife had a Prince just of the same age. These were brought up together in all noble exerci∣ses, in which the Prince having still the best, Pilat awaited his opportunity and slew him: loath was the King to pu∣nish him with death, lest he should leave himselfe altoge∣ther issulesse, therefore he sent him an hostage to Rome, for the paiment of certain tribute which was yearly to be ten∣dred into the Roman treasury. Living there as hostage, he associated himselfe with the son to the King of France, who lay pledge in Rome about the like occasion, and in a private quarrell was also slain by Pilat. The Romans find∣ing him of an austere brow and bloody disposition, made him governour of the Island called Pontus: the people were irregular and barbarous, whom by his severity he re∣duced to all civill obedience, for which good service he was removed to Jerusalem, bearing the name of Pontius from that Island; there he gave sentence against the Saviour of the world. Tiberius Caesar being then Emperor, was sick of a grievous malady, who hearing that in Jerusalem was a Prophet, who with a word healed all infirmities whatsoever, he sent one Volutianus to Herod, to send him this man; but Christ was before condemned and crucified. There Volutia∣nus acquainted himselfe with one Veronica a noble Lady of the Jewes,* 1.29 who went with him to Rome, and carried with her the linnen cloth, which still bore the impresse and likeness of Christs visage, upon which the Emperour no sooner looked, but he was immediately healed. The Emperor then understanding the death of this innocent and just man, cau∣sed Pilat to be brought to Rome, who being called before Cae∣sar (the history saith) he had at that time upon him the robe of our Saviour, which was called Tunica insutilis, a garment without seam, which whilst it was about him, nothing could be objected against him to his least dammage or disgrace; this was three times proved, and he still came off unaccu∣sed; but when by the advise of this Veronica and other Chri∣stians, the garment was took off, he was then accused for causing guiltlesse men to be slain, for erecting statues of strange nations in the Temple, against the ordinances of the Jewes; that with mony wrested and extorted from the holy treasures, he had made a water-conduit to his own house, that he kept the Vestments and sacred robes of the Priests in his own house, and would not deliver them for

the service of the Temple, without mercenary hire: of these and other things being convicted, he was sent to prison, where borrowing a knife to pare an apple he slew himselfe, his body after was fastned to a great stone, and cast into the river Tiber.

Of Adulteresses.

FRom the Incestuous, I proceed to the Adulteresses: Au∣lus Gellius in his first book de Mortibus Atticis cites these words out of Varro's Memppea,* 1.30 The errors (saith he) and vices of the wife are either to be corrected, or endured; he that chastiseth her makes her the more conformable, he that suffers her, makes himselfe the better by it: thus inter∣preting Varro's meaning, That husbands ought to reprove the vices of their wives, but if they be perverse and intracta∣ble, his patience though it prevaile not with them, yet much benefits himself: yet are not their insolencies any way to be much incouraged, because it is a duty exacted from all men, to have a respect to the honour of their houses and fa∣milies: Besides, such as will not be reformed by counsell, are by the lawes to be punished. Caesar sued a divorce from his wife, because she was but suspected of adultery, though no manifest guilt could be proved against her. Lysias the famous Oratour, declaimed against his wife in a publick oration, because he was jealous of her spouse-brea••h. But much is that inhumane rashnesse to be avoided, by which men have undertook to be their own justifiers, and have mingled the pollution of their beds, with the blood of the delinquents. Cato Censorius reckons such in the number of common executioners, and counts them little better then bloody hangmen; For (saith he) impious and abomina∣ble it is for any man to pollute his hands in such unnatural murder, he may with as much justice violate the ordinan∣ces of the Common weal, or with as great integrity pro∣pha••e the sacreds of the gods. Sufficient it is that we have lawes to punish, and judges to examine and sentence all such transgressors. Nero the most barbarous of Princes, af∣ter that by kicking and spurning, he had slain his wife Pop∣paea in his anger, though he was altogether composed of mischiefe, yet when he recollected himselfe, and truly con∣sidered

the vilenesse of the fact he had not only with great sorrow bewailed her death, to make what amends he could to the dead body before outraged, but he would not suffer her course to be burned in the Roman fires, but caused a funerall pile of all sweet and odoriferous woods (fetcht from the furthest parts of the world) to be erected, sending up her smoke as incense offered unto the gods, and after caused her ashes in a golden ••urn to be conserved in the fa∣mous sepulchre of the Iulian family: Neither is this dis∣course aimed to perswade men to too much remisnesse in wincking at, and sleeping out the adulteries of their wives. A most shamefull thing it was in Antonius,* 1.31 the best of the Caesars, to extoll his wife Faustina for the best of women, and most temperate of wives, when it was most palpably known to all men, how in Caje••a she commonly prostituted her selfe to Plaiers and Ministrels. L. Sylla, that was surnamed Happy was in this most infortunate, because his easie na∣ture was perswaded that his wise Metella was the chastest of matrons, when her known looseness and notorious inconti∣nence, was ballated up and down the City. Disgracefull it was in Philip King of Macedon, who having conquered di∣vers nations, and subdued many Kingdomes, yet could not govern one wife at home; who though he had manifest pro∣bability of her loosnesse and riots, yet suffered with all pati∣ence her insolencies, and being violently thrust out of her bedchamber by her, and her maids, dissembled the injury to his friends, excusing the wrong, and seeming to laugh at the injury. In like manner Clodius the Emperour excused his wife Messalina, being taken in adultery: this liberty grew to boldnesse, and that boldnesse to such an height of impu∣dency, that from that time forward she took pride to com∣mit those luxuries in publike, which at first she not with∣out blushes adventured on in private. It is related of her, that before the faces of her handmaids and servants, she dissolutely (I might say brutishly) cast her selfe into the embraces of one Sylius; not content with secret inchastity, unlesse she had a multitude to witnesse her abominable con∣gression: of whom the most excellent of the Satyrists thus speaks,

Qid privata domus, quid fecevit Hippa curas Respice rivales divorum, Claudius audi Quae tulerit—

Dost thou thou take care what's done at home, Or Hippa dost thou feare? Behold the rivals of the gods, What Claudius he doth hear:

The sacred institution of marriage, was not only for pro∣creation, but that man should make choice of a woman, and a woman to make election of a husband, as companions and comforters one of another, as well in adversity as pros∣perity. Aristotle confers the cares and businesses that lie a∣broad, upon the husband, but the domestick actions within doors, he assigns to the wife; for he holds it as inconveni∣ent and uncomely for the wife to busie her selfe about any publick affaires, as for the man to play the cotquean at home.

Marriage (as Franciscus Patricius saith) becomes the civil man,* 1.32 to which though he be not compelled by necessity, yet it makes the passage of life more pleasing and delightfull, not ordained for the satisfying of lust, but the propagation of issue. Aelius Verus one of the Roman Emperors, a man gi∣ven to all voluptuousnesse, when his wife complained unto him of his extravagancies, as never satisfied with change of mistresses and concubines, he thus answered her, Suffer me O Wife, to exercise my delights upon other women, for the word Wife, is a name of dignity and honour, not of wantonnesse and pleasure.* 1.33 The punishment of a woman taken in adultery (as Plutarch in his Quaest. Graec. relates) was amongst the Cu∣maeans after this manner: She was brought into the mar∣ket place, and set upon a stone in the publick view of all the people; when she had certain hours sate there as a specta∣cle of scorn, she was mounted upon an Asse▪ and led through all the streets of the City, and then brought back again and placed upon the same stone, ever after reputed notorious and infamous, and had the name of Onobatis, i. riding upon an Ass, end the stone on which she was seated, held as pollu∣ted 〈…〉〈…〉. Aelianus in his twelfe book, thus sets down the punishment of an adulterer amongst the Cre∣t••ns: 〈…〉〈…〉 brought before the judgement seat, and being convicted, he was crowned with wool to denote his effeminacy, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with an extraordinary mulct, held infa∣mous amongst the people, and made uncapable of office or dignity in the Common-weal. Amongst the Parthians, no sin was more severely punished then adultery. Carondas made a decree, That no Citizen or matron should be taxed

in the comedy, unlesse it were for Adultery or vain curi∣osity. Plutarch remembers two young men of Syracusa,* 1.34 that were familiar friends the one having occasion to travell abroad about his necessary occasions, left his wife in charge of his bosome companion whom he most trusted, who broke his faith, and vi••iated the woman in his friends absence; he returning and finding the injury done him, concealed his revenge for a season, till he found an opportunity to strum∣pet the others wi••e, which was the cause of of a bloody and intestine war, almost to the ruin of the whole City. The like combustion was kindled betwixt Pardalus and Tyrrhenus, upon semblant occasion. Livy in the tenth book of his De∣cades relates, that Q. Fabius Gurges son to the Consul, a∣merced the matrons of Rome for their adulteries, and ex∣tracted from them so much coin at one time, as builded the famous Temple of Venus neer to the great Circus. So much of the same in generall, now I come to a more particular survey of the persons.

Of many great Ladies branded with Adultery amongst the Ro∣mans: and first of Posthumia.

THis Posthumia was the wife of Servius Sulpitius, as Lollia the wi••e of Aulus Gabinus, Tertullia of Marcus Crassus, Mutia the wife of C. Pomp••ius, Servitia the mother of Marcus Brutus, Iulia the daughter of Servitia, and the third wife of Marcus Crassus, Furies Maura, the Queen of King Bogades, Cleopatra of Aegypt, and after beloved of Marcus Antonius, and of the Triumvira••e: all these Queens and noble Ma∣trons, is Iulius Caesar said to have adulterated. Livia the wife of Augustus Caesar, was by him first strumpetted, and being great with child, to recompence her wrong, he hastned the marriage. This was objected to him in an oration by Anto∣nius. Tertullia, D••usilla, Salvia, Scribonia, Tilisconia: with all these noble matrons he is said to have commerce.* 1.35 Like∣wise with a great Senators wife, whose name is not remem∣bred, Augustus being at a publike banquet in his own pa∣lace, withdrew himselfe from the table in the publick view, and before the cloth was taken up, brought her back again, and seated her in her own place with her haire rufled, her cheeks blushing,* 1.36 and her eies troubled. Messalina the wife of Claudius Tibezius, first privately, then publickly prostituted her selfe to many, insomuch, that custome grew to that ha∣bit,

that such as she affected, and either for modesties sake or for fear, durst not enter into her imbraces, by some stra∣tagem or other, she caused to be murdred (as Claudian saith) her insatiat desires yet stretched further, making choice of the most noble virgins and matrons of Rome, whom she either perswaded or compelled to be companions with her in her adulteries. She frequented common brothel houses, trying the abilities of many choice and able young men by turns, from whence (it is said of her) she returned wearied, but not satisfied: if any m••n refused her imbraces, her re∣venge stretched not only to him, but unto all his family. And to crown her libidinous actions, it is proved of her, that in the act of lust, she contended with a mercenary and common strumpet, which in that kind should have the prio∣rity, and that the Empresse in the 25 action became victor. Of her, Pliny, Iuvenal, and Sex. Aurelius, speaks more at large; a strange patience it was in an Emperour to suffer this.* 1.37 I rather commend that penurious fellow, who having married a young wife, and keeping her short both in liberty and diet, she cast her eies upon a plain Country fellow, one of her servants, and in short time grew with child; the old churle mistrusting his own weaknesse, being as much indeb∣ted to his belly, as to his servants for their wages (for his parsimony made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 g••d to both) and now fearing a further charge would come upon him, he got a warrant to bring them both before a Justice. They being convented, and he having made his case known, the Gentlewoman be∣ing asked upon divers interrogatives, modestly excused her selfe, but not so cleanly, but that the complaint sounded in some sort just, and the case apparant. The Country fel∣low was next call'd in question, to whom the justice with an austere countenance, thus spake, Syria, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, resolve me truly (saith he) and it shall be the better for thee, Hast thou got this woman with child, yea or no? to whom the plain fellow thus bluntly answered, Yes Sir, I think I have; how (quoth the justice) thou impudent and bawdy knave, shew me what reason thou hadst to get thy mistresse with child; to whom the fellow replied, I have served my master (a ve∣ry hard man) so many years, and I never got any thing else in his service. How this businesse was compounded I know not certainly, only of this I am assured, that our English wo∣men are more courteous of their bodies, then bloody of their minds.* 1.38 Such was not Roman Fabia, who as Plutarch in his

Parallels relates, was the wife of Fabius Fabricanus, and gave her selfe up to a young Gentleman of Rome called Petro∣niu•• Valentianus, by whose counsell she after slew her hus∣band, that they might more freely enjoy their luxuries. Salust and Valerius Maximus both report of Aurelia Oristil∣la, who suffered her selfe to be corrupted by Catalin (against whom Cicero made many eloquent Orations) who the free∣lier to enjoy her bed, caused her son to be poisoned. Com∣parable to Fabia,* 1.39 saving in murder, was Thimen the wife of King of Agis, who forsaking the lawful bed of her husband, suffered her selfe to be vitiated by Alcibiades of Athens. Martial in his Epigrams writes of one Nevina,* 1.40 who going chast to the Bath, returned thence an adulteresse: of her thus speaking:

Incidit in Flammam, veneremque secula relicto Conjuge: Penelope venit, abitque Helena. Which is thus Englished. She fell in fire, and followed lust, Her husband quite rejected, She thither came Penelope chast, Went Hellen thence detected.

Paula, Thelesina, Proculina, Lectoria, Gellia, all these are by some authors branded for the like inchastities.

An Egyptian Lady.

I Have heard of a young Citizen,* 1.41 who having married a pretty wanton l••sse (and as young folke love to be dally∣ing one with another) set her upon his knee, and sporting with her, and pointing one of his fingers at her face, now my little rogue (saith he) I could put out one of thine eies: to whom with her two longest fingers stretched forth right, and aiming at him in the like fashion, she thus answered: If with one finger thou put out one of mine eies, with these two I will put out both yours. This was but wantonnesse betwixt them, and appeared better in their action, then in my expression: and though I speak of a blind King, he lost not his eies that way. Herodotus relates, that after the death of Sesostris King of Egypt, his son Pher••nes succeeded in the Kingdome, who not long after his attaining to the principality, was deprived of his sight: The reason where∣of some yeeld to be this, Thinking to passe the river Nilus, either by inundations, or the force of the winds, the waters

were driven so far back, that they were flowed eighteen cu∣bits above their wonted compasse, at which the King inra∣ged, shot an arrow into the river, as if he would have wounded the channell. Whether the gods took this in con∣tempt, or the Genius of the river was inraged, is uncertain: but most sure it is, that not long after he lost all the use of sight, and in that darknesse remained for the space of ten years. After which time (in great melancholly) expired, he received this comfort from the Oracle, which was then in the City Butis, That if he washt his eies in the urine of a woman who had been married a full twelve month, and in that time had in no waies falsified in her own desires, nor derogated from the honour of her husband, he should then assuredly receive his sight. At which newes being much re∣joiced, and presuming both of certain and sudden cure, he first sent for his wife and Qu. and made proofe of her pore distillation, but all in vain; he sent next for all the great Ladies of the Court, and one after one, washt his eies in their water, but still they smarted the more, yet he saw no whit the better; but at length when he was almost in despaire, he hapned upon one pure and chast Lady,* 1.42 by whose vertue his sight was restored, and he plainly cured: who after he had better considered with himselfe, caused his wife withal those Ladies (saving she only by whose temperance and chastity, he had reobtained the benefit of the Sun) to be as∣sembled into one City, pretending there to feast them ho∣nourably for joy o•• his late recovery. Who were no sooner assembled at the place called Rubra Gleba, apparelled in all their best jewels and chiefest ornaments, but commanding the City gates to be shut upon them, caused the City to be set on fire, and sacrificed all these adulteresses as in one fu∣nerall pile, reserving only that Lady of whose loialty the Oracle had given sufficient testimony, whom he made the partaker of his bed and Kingdome. I wish there were not so many in these times, whose waters if they were truly cast by the doctors, would not rather by their pollution put out the eies quite, then with their clearnesse and purity, mini∣ster to them any help at all.

Laodice.

JVstine in his 37. book of History, speaks of this Laodice, the wife and sister to Mithridates King of Pontus: After

whose many victories, as having overthrown the Scythians and put them to flight, those who had before defeated Zopy∣ron, a great Captain of Alexanders army, which consisted of thirty thousand of his best souldiers, the same that over∣came Cyrus in battell with an army of two hundred thou∣sand, with those that had affronted and beaten King Philip in many oppositions, being fortunately and with great hap∣pinesse still attended, by which he more and more flourisht in power, and increased in majestie. In this height of for∣tune, as never having known any disaster, having bestowed some time in managing the affairs of Pontus, and next such places as he occupied in Macedonia; he privately then re∣tired himselfe into Asia, where he took view of the scituati∣on of those defenced Cities, and this without the jealousie or suspition of any. From thence he removed himselfe into Bythinia, proposing in his own imaginations, as if he were already Lord of all. After this long retirement he came in∣to his own Kingdome, where by reason of his absence, it was rumour'd and given out for truth, that he was dead. At his arrivall he first gave a loving and friendly visitation to his wife and sister, Laudice, who had not long before in that vacancy, brought him a young son. But in this great joy and solemnity made for his welcome, he was in great danger of poison: for Laodice supposing (it seems) Mithri∣dates to be dead as it before had been reported (and there∣fore safe enough) had prostituted her selfe to divers of her servants and subjects:* 1.43 and now fearing the discovery of her adultery she thought to shadow a mighty fault with a grea∣ter mischiefe, and therefore provided this poisoned draught for his welcome: But the King having intelligence there∣of by one of her handmaids, who deceived her in her trust, expiated the treason with the blood of all the conspirators. I read of another Laodice, the wife of Ariarythres, the King of Cappadocia, who having six hopefull sons by her hus∣band, poisoned five of them, after she had before given him his last infectious draught; the youngest was miraculously preserved from the like fate, who after her decease (for the people punished her cruelty with death) succeeded in the Kingdome. It is disputed in the Greek Commentaries, by what reason or remedy, affection once so devilishly setled in the breast or heart of a woman, may be a••ered or removed; or by what confection adulterous appetite, once lodged and kindled in the bosome, may be extinguished. The Ma∣gicians

have delivered it to be a thing possible; so like∣wise Cadmus Milesius, who amongst other monuments of hi∣story, writ certain tractates concerning the abolishing of love (for so it is remembred by Suidas in his collections.) And therefore I would invite all women of corrupted breasts, to the reading of this briefe discourse following. A remarkable example was that of Faustina,* 1.44 a noble and il∣lustrious Lady, who though she were the daughter of An∣tonius Pius the Emperor, and wife to Marcus Philosophus, not∣withstanding her fathers majesty, and her husbands honour, was so besotted upon a Gladiator or common fencer, that her affection was almost grown to frensie: for which strange disease, as strange a remedy was devised. The Emperor per∣ceiving this distraction, still to grow more and more upon his daughter, consulted with the Chaldeans and Mathema∣ticians in so desperate a case, what was best to be done: af∣ter long consideration it was concluded amongst them, that there was but only one way left open to her recovery, and that was, to cause the fencer to be slaine; which done, to give her a full cup of his luke-warm blood, which ha∣ving drunk off, to go instantly to bed to her husband. This was accordingly done, and she cured of her contagious dis∣ease. * 1.45 That night was (as they sad) begot Antoninus Commo∣dus, who after succeeded him in the Empire, who in his go∣vernment did so afflict the Common-weal, and trouble the Theater with fensing and prizes, and many other bloody butcheries, that he much better deserved the name of Gla∣diator, then Emperor. This that I have related, Julius Capi∣tolinus writes to Caesar Dioclesianus. Were all our dissolute matrons to be cured by the like Phisick, there would (no question) be amongst men lesse offenders, and among wo∣men fewer patients that complained of sick stomacks.

Phaedima.

CAmbyses having before unnaturally slain his brother Smerdis, by the hands of his best trusted friend Prax∣aspes: but after the death of the King (for the horridnesse of the fact) the Regicide not daring to avouch the deed to the people,* 1.46 lest it might prejudice his own safety; one Smerdis a Magician (whose ears Cambises had before caused to be cut off) took this advantage to aspire to the Kingdome: and being somewhat like in favour to the murdered Princes,

who was by the Souldiers generally believed to live) it pur∣chased him so many abettors (such as were deluded with his impostures) that he was generally saluted and crow∣ned Emperor. This was done whilst the greatest part of the Nobility were absent, and none since admitted into the Pa∣lace, much lesse into the presence, lest the Magician might be unvizarded, and the deceit made palpable. The greater fears and doubts still invironing the Princes, because Prax∣aspes not daring to justifie the murder, kept it still lockt in his own breast. The Magician in this interim, was not only possest of all the Kings Pallaces and treasures, but he en∣joied all his wives and concubines; amongst which was a beautifull Lady called Phaedima,* 1.47 the daughter of Otanes, a man of great power amongst the Persians. This Lady first (of all the rest) most indeared to Cambyses, and now since to the counterfeit Smerdu, Otanes apprehends to be the first instrument, by which to discover the truth: He therefore by a secret messenger sends to his daughter, to know by whom she nightly lay, whether with Smerdis the sonne of Cyrus, or with some other: to whom she answered, that it was altogether unknown to her who was her bedfellow, be∣cause she yet had neither seen Smerdis the son of Cyrus, nor that man (whatsoever he was) into whose embraces she was commanded. He then sent her word, that if she her selfe could not come to the sight of him, to demand of Atossa the daughter of Cyrus, and brother to Smerdis; who doubtlesse could decipher him in every true lineament. To which the daughter returns him, That she was separated both from the society and sight of Atossa, for this man whosoever he is, as soon as ever he had possest himselfe of the Empire, commanded all the women into severall lodgings, neither could they have any discourse or entercourse at all toge∣ther. This answer made Otanes the more and more suspiti∣ous, and desirous with any danger to find out the truth, he adventured a third message to Phaedima to this purpose: It behooves you (O daughter) being descended from no∣ble ancestors, to undergo any hazard, especially at the re∣quest of your father, when it aims at the generall good of the Common-weal or Kingdome; if that impostor be not Smerdu the brother of Cambyses (as I much feare) it be∣comes him neither to prostitute and defile your body, nor to mock and abuse the whole estate of Persia unpunished: therefore I charged you as you tender my love, your owne

honour, and the Empires weale, that the next night when you are called unto his bed, you watch the time when he is soundliest asleep, and then with your fingers gently feel both the sides of his head; if thou perceivest him to have both his ears, presume then thou lodgest by the side of Smer∣dis the son of Cyrus, but if on the contrary thou findest his cors wanting, then thou liest in the bosome of Smerdis, that base Magician. To this she replied by letter, Though I tru∣ly apprehend the danger, should I be taken seeking of such things as he perhaps knowes wanting (which can be no less then death) yet for your love and the common good, I will undergo the perill: and with this briefe answer gave satisfaction to her father. But greater content he received from her, when having discovered and laid open whatso∣ever her father suspected, she sent him a faithfull relation of every circumstance.* 1.48 These things discovered by Phaedi∣ma, Olanes makes a conjuration amongst the Princes, all vowing the supplantation of this usurper: who in the in∣terim, the more to confirm the people in their errour, he sent to Praxaspes, promising him honours and treasures, but to pronounce him once more before the people to be the true and legitimate heire. This charge Praxaspes under∣takes, the multitude from all parts of the City were by the Magi assembled, and he mounted unto the top of an high Turret the better to be heard, silence being made, and at∣tention prepared, Praxaspes begins his oration, in which he remembers all the noble acts of Cyrus, with the dignity of his blood and progeny: and passing over Cambyses to come to speak of his brother Smerdis (contrary to the expectation of the Magician) with teares began to commemorate the death of the Prince, murdered and made away by his infor∣tunate hand. Then told them whom in his stead they had voiced into the sacred Empire; namely, a groom, and one of low and base descent, one that for cozenages and forgeries had lost his ears, a Magician, a Conjurer, one that had long deluded them with his devilish sorceries, a slave not worthy at all to live, much lesse to raign and govern so noble a people: and as a further confirmation, that dying men speak true, these words were no sooner ended, but he casts himselfe off from the top of the Turret, and slew himselfe. After this, the Pallace was assaulted by the Princesse, the imposter slaine, and all his adherents put to massacre: Of the sequel of the history, the succession of Darius, &c. you

may further read in Herodotus. But concerning Phaedima, only for whose sake I have introduced the rest, I know not whether I have indirectly brought her into this catalogue, because she was so a noble a means of so notable a discove∣ry: yet considering she was one of the wives of Cambyses, and he being dead, so suddenly changing her affection to another; and after being injoied by him (of what conditi∣on soever) to betray him; all these circumstances consi∣dered, I give her free liberty to be ranked amongst the rest.

Begum, Queen of Persia.

ABdilcherai, a brave and valiant Prince of Tartaria, ta∣ken prisoner by Emirhamze Mirize eldest son to the King of Persia, in a battell betwixt the Persians and Tarta∣rians, was sent to the King into Casbia; where his captivity in regard of his birth and valour was so easie, that he ra∣ther seemed a de••ison then a forreiner,* 1.49 a Prince of the blood then a Captive: he not long so journed there, but he insinuated himselfe into the love of the Queen Begum, wife to the then King of Persia, who spent their time toge∣ther in such publicke dalliance (not able to contain them∣selves within the bounds of any lawfull modesty (that their familiarity grew almost into a by-word, as far as his just taxation, the Queens dishonour and the Kings scorn; inso∣much, that both Court and City made them not only their argument of discourse, but theam of table talk. Yet in all this banding of their reputation, and the Kings infamy, nothing ever came within the compasse of his ear, know∣ledge or suspition: insomuch, that seeing him to be so well a featured Gentleman, knowing the Tartar to be so brave a souldier, and approving him to be so compleat a Courtier; and withall acknowledging from what high linage, he was descended (as boasting himselfe to be the brother of the great Tartar Chan▪ The King of Persia therefore deter∣mined to marry him to his daughter, hoping by that means to unite such a league, and confirm such an amity betwixt the Tartarian Precopenses and himselfe, that they might not only denie all aid and assistance to Amurath the third of that name, and then the sixt Emperour of the Turks; but also, if need were, or should any future discontent arise, oppose him in hostility. But this politick purpose of the

Kings, arriving almost at the wished period, seemed so di∣stastfull to the Sultans of Casbia, that they first attempted by arguments and reasons to divert the King from this in∣tended match: but finding themselves no waies likely to prevaile, to make the King see with what errours he was maskt, and with what sorceries deluded, They diligently awaited when in the absence of the King, the T••••ta•• and the Queen Begum kept their accustomed appointment; of which the Sultans having notice, they entered that part of the Palace, brake ope the doors, and rushed into the Queens bed-chamber, where finding Abdilcherai in suspitious con∣ference with the Queen, they slew him with their Sables, and after cutting off his privy parts, most barbarously thrust them into his mouth, and after (as some report) slew the Queen. Though this history shew great remisness in the King, most sure I am, it was too presumptive an insolence in the subject.

To this Persian Queen,* 1.50 I will join the wife of Otho the third Emperour of that name. This lustfull Lady (as Poly∣cronicon makes mention) was of somewhat a contrary dis∣position with the former: For neglecting the pride and gal∣lantry of the Court, she cast her eies upon an homely hus∣hand; better supplied, it seems, with the lineaments of na∣ture, then the ornaments of art, but with an honesty of mind exceeding both: for when this libidinous Lady could by no tempting allurements abroad, nor fitting opportunity sorted private, insinuate with him, ei••sie•• to violate his al∣legeance to his Prince, or corrupt his own vertue; her for∣mer affection turned unto such rage and malice, that she caused him to be accused of a capitall crime, convicted and executed. But the plain honest man knowing her spleen, and his own innocency, he called his wife to him at the instant, when his head was to be cut off: and besought her as she ever tendred his former love (which towards her he had kept inviolate) to meditate upon some course or other by which his guiltlesse and unmerited death might be made manifest to the world: which she with much sorrow and many tears having promised, he gently submitted to his fa••e, and his body was delivered to the charge of his wid∣dow. Within few daies after, the Emperour kept a day so∣lemn, in which his custome was, bring mounted upon his ••oia••ll throne, to examine the causes of the fatherlesse and widdowes, and to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 where••n they were oppressed, and

by whom, and in person to do them justice. Among the rest came this injured widdow, and brings her husbands head in her hand, humbly kneeling before the Emperors Throne, demanding of him, What that inhumane wretch deserved, who had caused an innocent man to be put to death? to whom the Emperour replied, Produce that man before the judgement seat, and as I am royall he shall assuredly lose his head. To whom she answered, Thou art that man (O Em∣peror) for by thy power and authority this murder was com∣mitted▪ and for an infallible testimony, that this poor hus∣band of mine perisht in his innocence, command red hot irons to be brought into this place, over which if I pass bare footed and without any damage, presume he was then as much injured in his death, as I am now made miserable in his losse. The irons being brought, and her own innocence, together with her husbands being made both apparant, the Emperour before all his nobility, submitted himselfe to her sentence. But at the intercession of the Bishop, the woman limited him certaine daies in which he might find out the murder, he first demanded ten daies, after eight, then seven, and last six, in which time by inquiry and curious exami∣nations, he found his wife to be the sole delinquent; for which she was brought to the bar, sentenced, and after bur∣ned. * 1.51 This done, Otho to recompence the woman for the loss of her husband, gave her four Castles and Towns in the Bishoprick of Beynensis, which still beare name according to the limit of those daies: First the Tenth, second the Eight, third the Seventh, fourth the Sixt.

Olimpias.

OThas of Persia, having defeated Nectenabus, King of Aegypt, and expelled him from his Kingdome; he, the better to secure himselfe from the Sophies tyranny, sha∣ved his head and disguising himselfe, with all such jewels as he could conveniently carry about him, conveied himselfe into Macedonia: the authors of this history, a••e, Vincentius and Trevisa. There (as they say) he lived as a Chalde••n or Cabalist, where by his Negromancie and Art Magic••, he wrought himselfe so deeply into the brest of Olympias, that taking the opportunity whilest Philip was abroad in his for∣rein expeditions, he lay with her in the shape of Jupiter Hammon,* 1.52 and begot Alexander the Great. After the Queens

conception, many fowles used to flie about Philip when he was busied in his wars; amongst others, there was a Hen that as he sate in his Tent, flew up into his lap, and there laid an egg, which done, she cackling flew away; The King rising up hastily, cast it upon the ground and brake it, when suddenly a young Dragon was seen to leap out of the shel, and creeping round about it▪ and making offer to enter therein againe, died ere it had quite compassed it. The King at this prodigie being sta••••led, called all his Astrolo∣gers together, demanding of one Antiphon the noblest Ar∣tist amongst them, What the omen might be of that won∣der? who answered him, That his wife Olympias was great with ason, whose conquests should fill the world with a sto∣nishment, aiming to compass the whole universe but should die before he could reduce it into one enti••e Monarchy; the Dragon being the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of a ••oiall conquerour, and the round ov••ll circum•• erence, the symbol of the world. With this answer Philip was satisfied. When the time came of Olympias her travell, there were earth••qua••es, lightnings, and thunders, as if the last dissolution had been then p••e∣sent, when were seen two Eagles pearched upon the top of the Pallace, presaging the two great Empires of Europe and Asia. Young Alexander being grown towards manhood, it hapned that walking abroad with Necten••bus, in the pre∣sence of his father Philip, the young Prince requested the Astrologian to instruct him in his art. To whom Nectena∣bus answered, that with all willingnesse he would; and com∣ming neer a deep pit, Alexander thrust the Magician head∣long into that descent, by which sudden fall he was woun∣ded to death: yet Nectebanus calling to the Prince, de∣manded for what cause he had done him such outrage? W••o answered, I did it by reason of thy art, for ignoble it were in a Prince to study those vain scien••es, by which men will undertake to predict other mens fates, when they have nor the skill to prevent their own. To whom Necten••bus an∣swered, Yes, Alexander, I calculated mine own destiny, by which I knew I should be slain by mine own naturall son. To whom the Prince in derision thus spake; Bas•• Negro∣mancer, how canst thou be my father, seeing that to the mighty King Philip here present, I owe all fili••ll duty and obedience? to whom Nectenabus rehearsed all the circum∣stances (before related) from the beginning, and as he concluded his speech so ended his life. How the husband

upon this information behaved himselfe towards his wife, or the son to his mother, I am not certain, this I presume, it was a kind of needfull policy in both, the one to conceale his C••coldry, the other his Bastardy: so much of Olympias, concerning the birth of her son Al••xander. I will proceed a little further to speak of her remarkable death, being as majestically glorious▪ as the processe of her life was in ma∣ny passages thereof, worthily infamous. Justine in his histo∣ry relates thus,* 1.53 Olympias the wife of Philip, and mother of Alexander the Great, coming from Epirus unto Macedonia, was followed by Aeac••d•••• King of the Molossians, but find∣ing her selfe to be prohibited that C••untry,* 1.54 whether an∣nimated by the memory of her husband, encouraged with the greatnesse of her son, or moved with the nature of the aff••ont and injury, as she received it, I am not certain, but she assembled unto her all the forces of Macedoni••, by whose power and her command, they were both sla••••. About seven years after Alexander was possessed of the Kingdome: neither did Olympias reign long after, for when the mur∣de•••• of many P••i••ces had been by her committed, rather after an eff••minate then ••egall manner it converted the fa∣vour of the multitude, into an irreconcileable hatred, which ••ea••ing, and having withall intelligence of the approach of Cassander (now altogether distrusting the fidelity of her own Countrymen) she with her sons wife Roxana, and her Nephew young Hercules, retired into a City called 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or Pictua••; in this almost forsaken society, were Deida∣mia daughter to King Aeacidus, Thessalonice her own daugh∣t•••• in law, famous in her father King Philip's memory with dive•••• other Princely matrons, a small train attending upon them ••ather for shew and state, then either use or profit. These things being in order related to Cassander, he with all speed possible hastens towards the City Pictua, and in∣vests himselfe before it, compassing the place with an in∣vincible siege. Olympias being now oppressed both with sword and tamine, besides all the inconveniences depend∣ing upon a long and tedious war, treated upon conditions, in which her ••a••e conduct, with her trains, being compre∣hended, she was willing to submit her selfe into the hands of the conquerour: at whose mercy, whilst her wavering fortunes yet stood, Cassander convents the whole multitude, and in a publick oration, desires to be counselled by them how to dispose of the Queen; having before suborned the

parents of such whose children she had caused to be murde∣red, who in sad and funerall habits, should accuse the cru∣elty and inhumanity of Olympias. Their tears made such a passionate impression in the breasts of the Macedonians, that with loud acclamations they doomed her to present slaughter, most unnaturally forgetting that both by Phi∣lip her husband, and Alexander her son, their lives and for∣tunes were not only safe amongst their neighbour na∣tions, but they were also possessed of a forrein Empire, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from Provinces, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their times scarce heard of, but altogether unknown. Now the Queen perceiving armed men make towards her, and approach her to the same pur∣pose, both with resolution and obstinacy, she, att••••ed in a Princely and majestick habit, and leaning in state upon the shoulders of two of her most beautifull handmaids, gave them a willing, and undanted meeting: which the souldi∣ers seeing, and calling to mind her former state, beholding her present majesty, and not forgetting her roiall off∣spring, illustrated with the names of so many successive Kings, they stood still amazed, without offering her any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 violence: til others sent thither by the command of Cass••nder, throughly pierced her with their weapons, which she 〈…〉〈…〉 with such constancy, that she neither offe∣••••d 〈…〉〈…〉 avoid their wounds, or expresse 〈…〉〈…〉 by any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 clamour, but after the man∣•••• 〈…〉〈…〉 men, submitted her selfe to 〈…〉〈…〉 her 〈…〉〈…〉,* 1.55 expressing the invincible spirit 〈…〉〈…〉 Alexander, in which she likewise shewed a singu∣••••r 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for with her disheveled hair she shadowed her 〈◊〉〈◊〉, le••t in s••rugling between life and death, it might 〈…〉〈…〉 and with her garments covered her legs and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 lest any thing abo•••• her might be found uncomely. 〈…〉〈…〉 Cassander took to wife Thessalonice the the daugh∣•••••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Aridaeus, causing the son of Alexander with his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Roxane, to be keep prisoners in a ••ower called ••••••••phipositana.

〈◊〉〈◊〉.

ABout the time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Huns came 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into Italy, and expoiled the Long••hards, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 laid 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the City 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and in a hot assault having slain the Duke Oy∣sulphus, his wife (〈…〉〈…〉 R••milda) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Town

defensible, bravely and resolutely mainteined it against the enemy. But as Cacana King of the Anes approached neer unto the wals, encouraging his souldiers to hang up their scaling ladders and enter; Romilda at the same time look∣ing from a Cittadel, cast her eie upon the King, who as he seemed unto her, with wondrous dexterity behaved himself, and with an extraordinary grace became his arms. This li∣king grew into an ardency in love, for she that at first but allowed of his presence, now was affected to his person: in∣somuch, that in the most fierce assaults, though her self danger of their crosse-bows and slings, she thought within the secure, so she had the King her object. This fire was already kindled in her breast, which nothing could qualifie, inso∣much, that impatient of all delay, she sent unto her pub∣like enemy private messengers, That if it pleased the King (being as she understood a batchelor) to accept her as his bride, she would without further opposition, surrender up the Town peaceably into his hands: these conditions are first debated, next concluded, and lastly confirmed by oath on both sides. The Town is yeelded up, and Cacana accor∣ding to his promise takes Romilda to wife, but first he makes spoile of the Town, kils many, and leads the rest captive. The first night he bedded with his new reconciled bride, but in the morning abandoned her utterly, commanding twelve Huns, and those of the basest of his souldiers, one after another to prostitute her by turns: that done, he cau∣sed a sharp stake to be placed in the middle of the field,* 1.56 and pitched her naked body upon the top thereof, which entring through the same made a miserable end of her life, at which sight the Tyrant laughing said, Such a husband best becomes so mercilesse an harlot. This was the miserable end (as Poly∣cronicon saith) of Romilda. But better it hapned to her two beautifull and chast daughters,* 1.57 who fearing the outrage of the lustfull and intemperate souldiers, took purrified flesh of chickens and colts, and hid it raw betwixt their breasts: the souldiers approaching them, took them to be diseased, as not able to come neer them by re••son of the smell; by which means they preserved their honours for the present, and they for their vertues sake were after bestowed upon Gentlemen of noble quality. The ••ame Author puts me in mind of another Adulteresse, who to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 guilt of inchastity, added the bloody sin of murder. Our modern Chroniclers remember us of one Ethelburga,* 1.58 daughter to King O••••a, and

wife to Brithricus King of the West-Saxons, who aiming at nothing so much as her own libidinous delights, that she might the more freely and securely injoy them, by many sundry treasons conspired the death of her husband: but ha∣ving made many attempts, and not prevailing in any, the devill (to whom she was a constant votaresse) so far prevai∣led with her, that she never gave over her dammable pur∣pose, til she had not only dispatcht him of life by poison, but was the death also of a noble young Gentleman, the chiefe favorite of the King, and one whom in all his designs he most trusted. These mischiefs done, and fearing to be que∣stioned about them, because she had incurr'd a generall suspition, she packt up her choicest jewels, and with a trusty squire of hers, one that had been an agent in all her former brothelries, fled into France, where by her counterfeit tears and womanish dissimulations, she so far insinuated into the Kings breast, that the wrinckles of all suggestions were cleared, and she freely admitted into the Kings Court, and by degrees into his especiall favour: so rich were her jew∣els, so gorgeous her attire, so tempting her beauty being now in her prime, and withall so cunning and deceitfull her behaviour; that all these agreeing together, not only ba∣ted the hearts of the Courtiers, but attracting the eies of the great Majesty it selfe, insomuch, that the King sporting with her in a great Bay window, the Prince his sonne then standing by him, he merrily demanded of her, If she were instantly to make election of a husband, whether she would chuse him or his son? to whom she rashly answered, That of the two she would make choice of his son. The King at this somewhat moved, and observing in her a lightnesse of behaviour, which his blind affection would not suffer him before to look into, thus replied, Hadst thou made election of me, I had possest thee of my son, but in chusing him, thou shalt injoy neither. So turning from her, commanded her to be stripped out of her jewels and gay ornaments, and present∣ly to he shriven and sent to a Monastery: where she had not long been cloistered, but to her own infamy, and the disgrace of the religious house, she was deprehended in the dissolute imbraces of a wanton and lewd fellow, for which she was turned out of the cloister, and after died in great poverty and misery. In memory of whom there was a law established amongst the West Saxons, which disabled all the Kings wives after her, either to be dignified with the name

of Queen, or upon any occasion to sit with him on his re∣gall throne: yet this woman though she died poorly, yet died (as it is said) penitently, therefore methinks I hear her leave this or the like memory behind her.

En Epitaph upon Ethelburga Queen of the West Saxons.

I was, I am not; smil'd, that since did weep; Labour'd, that rest; I wak'd, that now must sleep; I plai'd, I play not; sung, that now am still; Saw, that am blind; I would, that have no will. I fed that, which feeds worms; I stood, I fell; I bad God save you, that now bid farewell. I felt, I feel not; followed, was pursu'd; I warr'd, have peace; I conquer'd am subdu'd. I mov'd, want motion; I was stiffe, that bow Below the earth; then something, nothing now. I catch'd, am caught; I travell'd, here I lie; Liv'd to the world, that to the world now die.

This melancholy is not amisse to season with a little mirth.* 1.59 In some other Country it was, for I presume ours affoords none such, but a common huswife there was, who making no conscience of spouse-breach, or to vitiate her lawfull sheets, had enterteined into her society a swagge∣ring companion, such a one as we commonly call a Roaring boy. This lad of mettall, who sildome went with fewer wea∣pons about him then were able to set up a trade-falne cut∣ler, had (to maintain his mistresses expenses and his own riots) committed a robbery, and likewise done a murder, and being apprehended for the fact, judged, condemned, and (according to the law in that case provided) hanged in chains: the gibbet was set neer to the common hi••-way, and some miles distant from the City, where this sweet Gen∣tlewoman with her husband then inhabited, who because in regard of the common fame that went upon them, she durst neither give her Love visitation in prison, be at his arraign∣ment, or publike execution, her purpose was (as affection that breeds madnesse, may easily beget boldnesse) unknown to her husband or any other neighbour, to walk in the me∣lancholy evening, and to take her last leave of him at the gallowes. Imagine the night came on, and she on her jour∣nie. It hapned at the same time, a traveller being a foot∣man, whose journy was intended towards the Town, as pur∣posing to lodge there that night; but being alone, and dark∣nesse

overtaking him, he grew doubtfull of the way, and fearfull of robbing, therefore he retired himselfe out of the road, and lay close under the gibber, still listning if any passenger went by to direct him in the way, or secure him by his company: as he was in this deep meditation, the wo∣man arrives at the place, and not able to contain her passi∣on, breaks out into this extasie, And must I needs then go home again without thee? at which words the traveller star∣ting up in hast. No by no means (quoth he) I shall be glad of your company; and with what speed he can makes towards her; away runs the woman, thinking her sweet heart had leap•• down from the gibbet and followed her, after speeds the man as loath to be destitute of company, still crying, Stay for me, stay for me: but the faster he called, the faster she ran, fear added to both their hast, down they tumbled often, but as quickly they were up again, still she fled, still he pursued But contrary was the issue of their fears, for she never looked back till she came to her own house, where finding the doors open, and her husband set at supper, for hast tumbled him and his stool down one way, and the ta∣ble and meat another: he rising with much adoe, askt what the pox she ailed, and if she brought the devill in with her at her taile? long it was ere she could make him any an∣swer, or come to her right sences: how she excused it I knew not, the traveller when he found himselfe neer the City, and saw light, slackned his pace, and went quietly to his Inne, whether they ever met after to reconcile their mi∣stake, or no, I know not, neither is it much pertinent to en∣quire.

A Modern History of an Adulteresse.

THE King of Scythia observing a man to go still na∣ked (whereas the coldnesse of the clime enforceth them to enquire after fables,* 1.60 furs, and the warmest gar∣ments can be found) in a violent and continued snow, mee∣ting him, demanded of him whether he were not cold? Of whom the fellow asked another question, Whether his fore∣head were cold or not: neither can I be cold (O King re∣plied he) where custome hath made me all forehead. This may aptly allude to many as well in these our daies, as the former, in whom sin hath begot such a habit, that where it once possesseth it selfe, it compels all the other powers and

affections of the body and mind to become ministers and vassals; for sin wheresoever it doth usurp, doth tyrannize, and as we see the dier when he would stain white cloath, and put it into another hew, doth it with a small mixture, being nothing comparable either in weight or quantity to the stuffe he would have changed; so be the mind never so chast, or the body of never so white and unblemished a purity: yet if the devill once come to put in his ingredi∣ents, with great facility and easinesse he will change the whole peece into his own colour and complexion, and of this we have both daily and lamentable experience: and therefore custome is called a second nature; for alas, how easily we see boldnesse grow to impudence, and satiety into surfet. This puts me in mind of seven short questions asked of the seven wise men of Greece, and by them as briefely answered:

What's the best thing in man?* 1.61 the mind that's pure. What's worst? A man within himselfe unsure. Who's rich?* 1.62 He that nought covets. What's he poor? The covetous man that starves amids his store.* 1.63 Womans chiefe beauty what?* 1.64 Chast life is such: Who's chast?* 1.65 She only whom no fame dares touch. Who's wise?* 1.66 The man that can but acts no ill. The fool?* 1.67 That cannot, but intends it still.

They that can contain themselves within these few prescrip∣tions, * 1.68 may undoubtedly store up a good name to themselfs, and honor to their posterity:* 1.69 But what the neglect of those may grow unto,* 1.70 I will in some sort illustrate unto you in a modern History,* 1.71 lately hapning, and in mine own know∣ledge. * 1.72 An ancient Gentleman, as well grown in reputation as years, and in those parts where he lived, having purcha∣sed to himself a generall respect for both, married a beau∣tifull young Gentlewoman of good parts and parentage: But having no issue by her, he selected unto his acquain∣tance, a Noble young Gentleman, one that had travelled France, Italy, Spaine, and had been at the Sepulchre; ma∣king that happy use of his travell, that he was able to dis∣course properly and without affectation either of the sci∣tuation of Cities, o•• the conditions and customes of peo∣ple; and in oneword, to give him his own deserved cha∣racter, there was nothing i•• him wanting that might be∣come a perfect and a compleat Gentleman. This young mans father was a 〈…〉〈…〉 and familiar neighbour to

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this old man before spoken of, who had observed his mode∣sty and courteous behaviour even from his infancy, and therefore was the more affected to his discourse and compa∣ny; his affection grew so far that he purposed to make him a peece of his heire. Whilst they continued in this familia∣rity (and the young man still frequented the house) the•••••• grew great acquaintance betwixt him and the Gentlewo∣man: No marvell, for they had been both play-fellowes and school-fellowes, and by reason of their parity in years, used through an honest, yet a kind of suspected familiarity; insomuch that it grew to a calumny, still passing from one man to another, it arrived 〈◊〉〈◊〉 length to the cars of the young mans father, who so••ted opportunity to talk with his son, demanding of him how that fire was kindled, from whence this smoke grew; who, notwithstanding many pro∣testations of his own innocence, in which he derogated no∣thing from truth, was charged by his father (to avoid all rumour and aspersion) to forbear the occasion and absent himselfe from the house, and this he imposed him upon his blessing▪ To this the young man with great modesty assen∣ted; as unwilling to contradict his fathers counsell, as to encrease that injurious suspition concerning the Gentle∣womans honor, which was undeservedly called in question. It is to be understood, that many friendly and modest cour∣tesies had past betwixt this young couple, insomuch, that having all liberty granted both of society and discourse, he prest her upon a time so far to know if it should please God to call away her husband (being very old and by the course of nature not likely to live long) how she purposed to dispose of her selfe. To whom she protested, that though she wisht her aged husband all along life and happiness, yet if it pleased the higher powers to lay the crosse of widdow∣hood upon her, she would, if he so pleased, confer upon him her youth, her fortunes, and whatsoever she was endowed with, before any man living, if it pleased him to accept of them, and this she bound with an oath: This the Gentle∣man (betwixt honouring and loving her) could not chuse but take wondrous kindly at her hands, and vowed to her the like. The conditions on both sides were accepted, only as she had bound her selfe by one oath, she imposed upon him another, namely, that till that time of her widdowhood, he should neither associate himselfe privately, converse nor contract matrimony with any woman whatsoever. These

things thus accorded betwixt them, yet the fathers conju∣rations so far prevailed with the sons obedience, that not∣withstanding many urgent and important messages from the good old man the husband (who wondered what di∣staste might breed his sudden discontinuance, as suspecting nothing from either) he still excused his absence and for∣bore the house. It hapned that some months after riding to a market Town not far off, equally distant betwixt his own fathers house and the old gentlemans, to give a meeting to some Gentlemen of the Country, by chance he hapned upon a chambermaid that belonged to his betro hed mi∣streste, whom he well knew; he saluted her, and she him, and after some complement past betwixt them, he asking how every body did at home, and she on the other side wondring at his strangenesse, telling him how long he had been ex∣pected, and how much desired of all the house▪ these things over he entreated her to drink a cup of wine, which the maid willingly accepted. They being alone, and falling in∣to discourse of many old passages well known to them both, the young man began to speak how much he respe∣cted her mistresse, and how dea••ly tendred her honour: she on the other side began a contrary discourse, as that for his own part she knew him to be a noble Gentleman, and wel parted, one whom her old master affected above al men; proceeding, that she was not altogether ignorant what fami∣liarities had past betwixt him and her mistresse, who only bore him faire outwardly and in shew, when another enjoi∣ed both her heart and body inwardly and in act▪ and that upon her own knowledge; and to confirm he accusation, nominated the man (who was his neerest and most familiar friend.) At this report the Gentleman was startled, but bet∣ter considering with himselfe, told her he thankt her for her love, but could by no means beleeve her relation; fi••st, by reason he knew her Ladies breeding, and was con∣firmed in her known modesty and vertue, as having himself made tryall of both to the uttermost, having time, place and opportunity, all things that might beget temptation. Last∣ly, for his friend, in all their continuall and daily conver∣sation, he never perceived either familiar discourse, wanton behaviour, or so much as the least glance of eie to passe suspitiously betwixt them. To which she answered, it was so much the more cunningly carried; for her own part she had but done the office of a friend, and so left him, but in a

thousand strange cogitations: yet love perswading above jealousie, he began to interate and call to mind, with what an outward integrity she had still borne her selfe towards him, and with a purity by no womans art to be distembled. Next he bethought himselfe, that perhaps the maid might be fallen in love with him, and by this calumny might seek to divert him from the affection of her mistresse; or else she had taken some displeasure against her, and by this means thought to revenge her selfe. In the midst of these apprehensions, or rather distractions, came another letter from the husband, complaining of his absence, wondring at the cause, and urgently desiring his company, though ne∣ver so private, where he would reconcile himselfe touching any unkindnesses that might be conceived, and withall re∣solve him what he should trust to concerning some part of his lands. The Gentleman still remembring his fathers charge, yet thought a little to dispense with it, and writ back word (knowing every part of the house by reason of his long frequenting it) That if he pleased to leave his gar∣den door open at such a time of the night, he would accept of such provision as he found, and be merry with him for an houre or two, and give good reason for his unwilling dis∣continuance: but thus provided, that neither wife, friend, nor servant (saving that one whom he trusted with his mes∣sage) might be acquainted with his comming in or going out. This was concluded, the time of night appointed, and every thing accordingly provided: They met, he old man gave him kind and freely entertainment, seeming overjoied with his company, and demanding the reason of his so great strangenesse, He answered, that notwithstanding his own innocence, and his wives approved Temperance, yet bad tongues had been busie to their reproach, measuring them by their own corrupt inte••••ts, and therefore to avoid all im∣putation whatsoever, his study was, by taking away the cause to prevent the effect; his reason was approved, and the old man satisfied concerning both their integrities. Time cals the old man to his bed, and the young Gentleman is left to his rest, purposing to be gone early in the morning, before any of the houshold should be awake or stirring. Be∣ing now alone and not able to sleep in regard of a thou∣sand distracted fancies that were pondering in his mind and brain▪ he arose from his bed, and walking up and down the chamber, after some meditation, as of her beautie, her

vowes, her protestation, her oaths, all pleading together in behalfe of her innocency so far prevailed with him, That considering he was now in the same house, and that by rea∣son of the old mans age, they very often lay asunder, that he was acquainted with every staire-case, and knew the ready way to her chamber; Love conquering all suspicion, he purposed once more to visit the place where he had (but ever honestly) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with her at all houres, and where their intended marriage was by interchange of oaths at first con∣firmed. With this purpose stealing softly up the stairs, and listning at the door before he would presume to knock, he might heare a soft whispering, which sometimes growing louder, he might plainly distinguish two voices (hers, and that Gentlemans his supposed friend, whom the maid had had before nominated) where he might evidently under∣stand more then protestations passe betwixt them, namely, the mechall sinne it selfe. At this being beyond thought ex∣t••si'd, scarce knowing how to contein himselfe for the pre∣sent, he remembred him of his sword in his chamber, whi∣ther he went instantly with intent to return, and breaking open the door, to transpierce them both in the adulterate act: but better judgement guiding him, considering what murder was, and the baseness to become a personal executi∣oner, withall remembring her beauty, their often meetings, kisses and embraces; his heart became too tender to destroy that goodly frame, in which nature had shewed her best of art, though the devill his worst of envy. Therefore he in∣stantly made himselfe ready, left the place, and without the knowledge of any man, or discovering to any what had past, returned to his fathers: where pondering at full with himselfe, the nature of his abuse (being beyond example) the strictnesse of his oath, being not only debarred from marriage, but as it were banished from the society of wo∣men; that she only reserved him as a stale or shadow, whilst another carried away the substance; that she kept her selfe to be his wife, and anothers whore; and that from all these no safe evasion could be devised to come off towards her like a Gentleman, or towards God like a Christian, all these injuries jointly considered, drove him into a suddain me∣lancholy, that melancholy into a doubtfull sicknesse, and that sicknesse into a dangerous distraction, insomuch, that his life was much feared, and he with great difficulty reco∣vered; but by the help of good Physitians being cured, and

the counsell of his best friends comforted, he at length ga∣thered strength, and prepared himselfe for a second tra∣vell, with purpose never more to revisite his Country, where such an unnaturall monster was bred. But before his de∣parture, the old man hearing what he intended, sent for him to his house to take of him an unwilling leave: at the importunity of his own father he was forced to accompany him thither, where he must of necessity take another view of his betrothed mistresse, and his treacherous friend. Din∣ner being past with his much impatience, it was generally imputed to his loath to depart; when his sadnesse was meer∣ly grounded upon her impudence. Parting growing on, she singles him for a farewell, weeping in his bosome, wrin∣ging him by the hand, beseeching him to have a care of his safety but especially of his vow and promise, all which pro∣ceeded from such a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 felt passion, as he almost began to question, what in his own notion he knew to be infalli∣ble. But instead of a reply he delivered her a letter, which he intreated her to vouchsafe to peruse in his absence, in which his mind was fully signified. Imagine them with the rest of the company divided, every one wishing the Gen∣tleman good speed and safe return: when she retyring her selfe, opens the letter, wherein was laid open every passage concerning her lust, what he himselfe personally had heard and known, the place where, the time when, the very words whispered, with every undeniable circumstance, and these exprest with such passionate efficacy, in which he laboured to make known his injuries, and her treacheries (the sole occasions of his voluntary exile;) all these (I say) were so feelingly set down, that they strook her to the heart, inso∣much, that she fell into a present frenzy, and despairingly soon after died. Which newes came to the Gentleman be∣fore he had past Gravesend, by which he understood him∣selfe to be quite released of all his intricate oaths and pro∣mises: whose noble disposition the old Gentleman un∣derstanding, instated him in a great part of his land, which he enjoies to this day, and in my opinion not altogether undeservedly.

A homely tale I am next to tell you, were it of one of our own Countrywomen,* 1.73 I would conceal it, but since it concerns a French woman, out it shall to the full, the rather for the authority of the author who affirms it. In the time that King, Aethelwold reigned in Mercia, and Stephanus Pau∣lus was Pope, one Gengulphus a good and devout man lived

in Burgoign, It is said that he bought a well in France, and at his praiers it sunk there, and rose againe in Burgoign. But the greater miracle is behind (for thereby hangs a tale) This man sued a divorce, and was separated from his wife (upon whom, the story vouchsafes no name) she confede∣rated with a Clerk (who was the adulterer) to take away his life: he being dead (as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 testat••s) there were ma∣ny miracles seen about his grave. This being told to his wife sitting at a banquet, and being in her jollity, she fell in∣to a loud laughter, and thus said. When my husband Gen∣gulphus doth any such miracles, then do you all take notice that my taile shall sing. These words (as my author saith) were no sooner uttered, but instantly there was heard from under her a filthy foul noise, and so oft as she spake, so often it was heard, and that continued until her dying day.

The history of Italy remembers us of one Isabella the wife of Luchinus,* 1.74 a Viscount, who was the strumpet of Vgo∣linus Gonsaga, Prince of Mantua,* 1.75 as also of Vittoria Corumbo∣na▪ who slew her husband to enjoy the Duke Brachiano. Friga was the wife of Othimus King of the Danes;* 1.76 and as Saxo Grammaticus affirms, prostituted her body to one of her servants. So Baptista Egnatius informs us of the Empresse Zoe,* 1.77 who slew Romanus Arg••ropilus, that she might freelier injoy the company of Michael Paphlagon, who after succee∣ded in the Empire. Lewis, Seneshall of Normandy, taking his wife in adultery,* 1.78 (named Carlotta with Johannes Lave∣rinus, slew them both in the act. Gregory Turonensis nominates one Deuteria,* 1.79 a beautifull French Lady, who was adultera∣ted by King Theobert: as Agrippina the mother of Nero, was corrupted by the Emperor Domitian. Macrobius speaks of one Julia a Greekish woman, who being suspected of adul∣tery by the great Orator Demosthenes;* 1.80 his servant ••sopus who was conscious of all their meetings, could neither by faire means be won, nor torments compell'd to betray hers or his masters secrets, till Demosthenes himselfe made of it a voluntary confession. Blondus, Martinus, Platina, Robert Berns, and others, writ of Maud the Dutchesse of L••rrein, who was after wife to a second husband. Aooron, Marquesse of Esten, from whom she was divorced by Pope Hilde••••and, betwixt whom and her it is said, there were Furtivae Complexus, i. Imbraces by stealth: she was after called the daughter of Saint Peter, because in her last will and Testament, she bequeathed to the Church of Rome a great part of He∣truria, which is called unto this day the Patrimony of

Saint Peter Trevisa reports, that in the time when Marcus Commodus was Emperor, he sent into Aegypt one Philippus, as President over a Province, then in the jurisdiction of the Romans. This Philippus had a beautiful yong daughter called Eugenia,* 1.81 who being wholly devoted to the Christian faith, but not daring to professe it, because of her father, who protested all rigour to those of that Sect, she disguised her selfe in mans habit, stealing from her fathers house, and made such means, that she was baptized by the name of Eugenius, and after became a Monk. In processe the old Abbot being dead, she had so well demeaned her selfe in the Monastery, that she had the voice to be made Abbot in his stead; Being possessed of the place, a lewd and an adulte∣rous woman called Malentia,* 1.82 by all allurements possible would have tempted Eugenius to lust, but not prevailing, she with loud acclamations pretending the other would have forced her against her will, caused her to be apprehen∣ded and brought before the Judge, which was the President Philip the father to Eugenia, who being an enemy to all of Religious Orders, was easily induced to give beleefe to any accusations commenc'd against them, and punisht even sleight faults with the extreamest severity. Eugenius is accu∣sed, the circumstances examined, and carry great shew of truth: The Judge is ready to proceed to sentence, when Eugenia falling upon her knees discloseth her selfe to her father, and humbly intreated his pardon. To whom (not∣withstanding her disguise) her face is easily known, his fellow Monks stands amased, Malentia the accuser confoun∣ded, but all in generall wonder-strook, till Philippus raising his faire daughter from the earth, embraceth her lovingly, as extasi'd with her recovery beyond all expectation; for whose sake he renounced all his false heathen gods, and was christned with his whole houshold and family. Thus the wickednesse of one woman, turned to the blessednesse and pro•••••• of many.

Elfritha.

RAnulphus Monk of Chester tels this story: King Ed∣gar (saith he) being, in his youth much addicted to the love of faire women,* 1.83 had intelligence that one Elfritha daughter to Orgarus, was for 〈◊〉〈◊〉, feature, and accomplish∣••••••••s 〈…〉〈…〉 surpassing all the Virgins of her time;

insomuch, that he not only greatly desired to see her, but purposed that if her beauty were any way answerable to that which fame had blazoned her to be, to make her his Queen. This secret apprehension he communicated to one Earl Ethelwold a Noble Gentleman, in his great favour and best acquainted with his privacies, commanding him to make a journy to the Earl of Devonshire her father, and there to take of her a free and full surveigh, and finding her answerable to the publike rumour, not only to de∣mand her of the Earl Orgarus, but to bring her along with her father, roially attended like the bride of a King, to par∣take with him all regall honours. This journy Ethelwold with great willingnesse undertakes, without disclosing to any the secrets of his message: and comming to the place where the damosell with her father then sojourned, he was nobly enterteined, as a fellow peer, and an especiall favou∣rit to the King. No sooner came the Lady in presence, but Ethelwold began to conceive that report had been too nig∣gardly in her praise, for he had not in his life time seen a Lady of so incomparable a feature, to whom all the Court-beauties appeared scarce good Christall to that unmatch∣able Diamond. What cannot love work in the heart of man, when such a beauty is his object? it makes the son for∣ger his father, and the father not remember that he hath a son, but either hath made the others bed incestuous: It hath subjected Cities, and depopulated Countries, made the subject forget his allegeance to his soveraign, and the soveraign most unnaturall and inhumane to his subject, as may appear by this history. This Earl surprised with the love of this Lady, hath either quite forgot the message he was sent about, or else is not pleased to remember it. Not speaking of the King at all, but counterfeting some occa∣sions into that Country, and as if he had hapned upon that place by accident, or come to give him visitation in noble courtesy; at supper finds discourse concerning the Lady, and at length prevailed so far with the old Earl, that they were contracted that night, and the next morning married. Af∣ter some few daies journie there, the Kings impositions in∣forced him to take an unwilling farewel of his new marri∣ed bride, only at parting he earnestly intreated them for divers reasons which much imported him, to keep the mar∣riage as secret as possibly might be, and so posted back to the Court. He was no sooner arrived, but the King inquisi∣tive

concerning the beauty of the Lady, how tall, how strait, of what haire, what complection, whether her looks were cheerfull or sad, her behaviour sober or suspitious. To all which he answered in few, she was indeed a Lady, and that was her best, an Earls daughter and therefore flattered, for what in a private woman is commendable, is in such excel∣lent; and what in the former praise worthy, in the latter 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and admirable: but for this Lady Elfritha, she was a course home spun peece of flesh, whose nobility and dower might make her capable of being wife to some honest Justice of peace, or Sheriffe of the Shire, but not becomming the bed of any of the nobility (unlesse some one whose estate was decaid;) indeed a meer Rook, and most unworthy the eie of the Princely Eagle. With this answer the King was sa∣tisfi'd, and for the present dispos'd his affection elsewhere, i∣magining these praises might be divulg'd abroad as wel in scorn of her person as otherwise, so for some few weeks it rested: in which interim Ethelwold was oft mist in the Court, and discontinued his wonted service, no man could scant tell or inform the King how he disposed himselfe, and still when he came to present his service, he would excuse his absence with some infirmity or other, which was the rea∣son of his inforced retirement: besides, he was often obser∣ved to intreat leave to recreate himselfe in the Country, and take the benefit of the fresh aire, as commodious for his health, in all which liberty he past his limits. This bred some jealousie in the King, and the rather, because the fame of this Ladies unmatched beauty more and more in∣creased. Therefore to be more punctually informed of the truth, he sent another private messenger, who brought him intelligence how all things stood, with the certeinty of eve∣ry accident how it befell. The King not knowing how to disgest such an injury from a subject, smothered his grie∣vance for a space, and at length caused the gests to be drawn, for he purposed a progresse into the West. Ethelwold yet nothing suspecting, was the formost man to attend the King upon his journie: but when they came almost to Ex∣cester, he began to mistrust the Kings purpose, the rather because he sent to the Earl Orgarus, that at such a time he meant to feast with him. Now must Ethelwold bestir himself, or instantly hazard the Kings high displeasure: he there∣fore posts in the night to his wife, and to his father in law, reports the truth of every circumstance from the begin∣ning,

how he was sent by the King, and to what purpose, how her beauty had so enflamed him, that he was compelled by violence of affection, to deceive the Kings trust; and lastly, to secure his own life, which for the love of her he had hazarded▪ he was forced to disparage her feature, dis∣semble her worth, and disgrace her beauty: and therefore besought her, as she tendred his safety being her husband, either not to appear before the King at all, or if she were called for and so compelled, to be seen in that fashion as he had described her to his soveraign, namely, with a smodged face, counterfeit haire, uncomely habit, and in her behavi∣our to put on such a garb of folly as might rather breed loathing then liking in his majesty. The first of his speech she heard with patience, but when he came to deliver to her how he had disparaged her beauty, and, to the King too; nay more, would have her derogate from her own worth, and be accessary to the blasting of that beauty which na∣ture had made so admirable, this her womanish spleen could hardly disgest; yet she soothed him up with fair and promising language, and told him she would better consi∣der of it, and so dismissed him in part satisfied. In the mor∣ning he presented himselfe early to attend the King, who was that day to be enterteined by the Earle his father in law. All things were nobly provided, and Edgar roially received and set to dinner (some write that Ethelwold had caused a kitchin maid to put on his wives habit, and sit at the Kings table, but I find no such matter remembred in my author) the truth is, the King about the middest of din∣ner called for the Earle Orgarus, and demanded of him whe∣ther he had a wife or no, if he had, why he might not have her company, knowing it was a general observation in Eng∣land, that without the wives entertainment, there could be no true and hearty welcome? The Earl replied, that at that time he was an unhappy widdower: he then deman∣ded whether he had any children to continue his posteri∣tie? to which he answered, Heaven had only blest him with one daughter, a plain damosell, yet the sole hope of his fu∣ture memory. The King was then importunate to see her, and commanded her to be instantly brought unto his pre∣sence; which put Ethelwold into a strange agony, yet still hoping she had done as he had lately enjoined her, when she (contrary to his expectation) came in apparalled like a bride, in rich and costly vestures, her golden haire fairely

kembed, and part hanging down in artificiall curls, her 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stuck with jewels, and about her neck a chain of Dia∣monds, which gave a wondrous addition to that beauty, when 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of it sel••e without any ornament, was not to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉: A contrary effect it wrought in the King and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 husband. To Edgar she seemed some goddesse, at least a miracle in nature; to Ethelwold (in regard of his fear) a fury, or what worse he could compare her to. O frail wo∣man, in this one vanity to appear beautifull in the eies of a King, thou hast committed two heinous sins, Adultery and Murder, for accordingly it so fell out. Edgar was as much surprised with her love, as incensed with hate against her Lord, both which for the present he dissembled, neither smi∣ling on the one, nor frowning on the other. In the after∣noon the King would needs 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the stag in the forrest of Werwelly, since called 〈◊〉〈◊〉-wood. In the chase, by the ap∣pointment of Edgar, Earl Ethelwold was strook through the body with an arrow, and so slain, the King after made Elfri∣tha his bride and Queen. The Earl had a base son then pre∣sent at the death of his father, of whom the King asked how he liked that manner hunting, to whom he answered, Roial Sir, what seemeth good to you, shall be no way offensive: from that time forward he was ever gracious with the King. And Elfritha 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to make attonement with heaven for the murder of her husband, or ••••ther (as Ranulphus saith) for causing Edward (〈◊〉〈◊〉 whom she was step mother) to be slaine 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her own son Egelredus might reign, builded an Abby for Nunnes at Worwell, where she was after bu∣ried.

Gunnora.

IN the time that Agapitus was Pope Lewis King of France, the son of Charls, caused William Longa Spata the Duke of Normandy to be treacherously slain: this William was son to Rollo. The Lords of Normandy with this murder much incensed, watched their advantage, and surprised the King in Rhothemage, where they committed him to safe custody till he had promised and sworn to yeeld up Normandy to Richard son and immediate heire to William the late mur∣dered Duke, and moreover, in what place soever the King and the young Duke should have meeting to confer, that Richard should car his sword, but King Lewis neither to

have sword nor knife about him. This Richard being young, was called Richard the Old; he had besides another attri∣bute given him, which was, Richard without Feare, because he was never known to be dismaid at any thing; but a third above these was, that he pretended to be wondrous religi∣ous. He was Duke two and fifty years, and took a Lady to his bed from Denmark, whose name was Gunnora, by whom he had five sons and two daughters, the eldest of which was married to Etheldredus King of England,* 1.84 her name was Em∣ma, and she was called the flower of Normandy. Concer∣ning this bold, yet religious Duke, it is reported by Maria∣nus, lib. 2. Henricus, Ranulphus, and others, that besides many other testimonies of his sanctity, this one made him most e∣minent, A Monk of Andoenus in Rothomage a Town in Normandy, going one night to meet with his Sweet heart, his way lay over a bridge,* 1.85 and under that bridge was a deep foord or river, it so hapned, that mistaking his footing, he fell into the water, and there was drowned. He was no soo∣ner dead, but there came to carry away his soul, an Angel and a Fiend, these two contended about it, the one would have it, so would the other, great was the controversie be∣twixt them; at length they concluded to put the case to Duke Richard, and both to stand to his arbitriment: much pleading there was on both sides, at length the Duke gave sentence, That the soul should be restor'd again to the body, and be placed again upon that bridge from whence he had falne, and if then he would offer to go from thence to his Sweet heart, the Devill should take him; but if otherwise, he (because he was a Church-man) should be still in the Angels protection. This was done, and the Monk left his way to the woman, and fled to the Church, as to a sanctua∣ry, whither the Duke went the next day, and found the Monks cloths still wet, and told the Abbot every circum∣stance as it fell out; therefore the Monk was shriven, did penance, was absolved and reconciled. This I have read, which I perswade no man to beleeve. This Duke lived with the faire Gunnora long time dishonestly, and without mar∣riage, had by her those children aforesaid, but at length by the perswasion of the nobility, and intercession of the Cler∣gy, he took her to wife. The first night after the marriage, when the Duke came to her bed, she turned her back to∣wards him, which she had never done till that time: at which he marvelling, demanded of her the reason why she

did so. To whom she answered, before I was your strumpet, and therefore as a servant was tied to do your pleasure in all things, but now I am your wife, and made part of your selfe, therefore henceforth I claime with you an equall so∣veraignty, and will do what me list, bearing my selfe now like a Princesse, not like a prostitute. This I am easily in∣duced to beleeve, for how soon do honours change man∣ners. Juvenall in his sixth Satyr speaking of marriage, thus saith,

Semper habet lites aeternaque jurgia lectus, &c. The marriage bed is seldome without strife, And mutuall chidings: he that takes a wife, Bargains for mighty trouble, and small rest; Sleep growes a stranger then, whilst in her brest She lodgeth Passion, Selfe-will, Anger, Feare, And from her 〈◊〉〈◊〉 drops many a feigned teare, &c.

Somewhat to this purpose spake Terentius in his Adel∣p••••s.

Duxi uxorem, quam ibi non miseriam vidi, &c. I made choice of a wife, with judgement sound, What miserie have I not therein found? Children are born, they prove my second care; They should be comforts, that my corfives are, For her and them, I study to provide, And to that purpose, all my time's apply'd: To keep her pleas'd, and raise their poor estate, And whats my meed for all, but scorn and hate?

And so much for Gunnora. It seems the Emperor Valen∣tinianus was neither well read in Juvenal nor Terence. He, when his wife commended unto him the beauty of the Lady Justina,* 1.86 took her to his bed, and for her sake made a law, That it should be lawful for any man to marry two wives. It is read of Herod the Great, that he had nine wives, and was divorsed from them all,* 1.87 only for the love of Mariamnes niece to Hir••anus, for whose sake he caused himselfe to be circumcised, and turned to the faith of the Jewes: he begot on her Alexander and Aristobulus;* 1.88 on Dosides Antipater; on Metheta,* 1.89 Archelaus; on Cleopatra, Philip, and Herodes Antipas he that was afterward called Tetrarch,* 1.90 one of the four Prin∣ces:) * 1.91 Aristobulus that was Herodes son, begotten on Bero∣nica the daughter of his own Aunt called Saloma;* 1.92 he begot the Great Agrippa,* 1.93 Aristobulus and Herod that was strook by the Angell: also on the aforesaid Beronica he begot two

daughters, Mariamnes and Herodias who was after Philips wife, that was Uncle to Aristobulus: neverthelesse whilst Philip was yet alive, Herodias became wife to his brother Herod. At length there fell debate betwixt her, Mariamnes, and Saloma, Herods sister▪ Herod by the instigation of Saloma, ••lew Hyrcanus the Priest, and after, Jonathas the brother of Mariamnes, who against the law he had caused to be con∣secrated Priest at the age of seventeen years. After that he caused Mariamnes to be put to death, with the husband of his sister Saloma, pretending that Hyrcanus and Jonathas had adulterated his sister. After these murders, Herod grew mad for the love of Mariamnes, who was held to be the fairest Lady then living, and innocently put to death. He then took again his wife Dosides, and her son Antipater to favour, sending Alexander and Aristobulus the sons of Ma∣riamnes to Rome to be instructed in the best literature, whom after he caused to be slain. And these were the fruits of Adulterous and Incestuous marriages.

Of women that have come by strange deaths.

THere are many kinds of deaths, I will include them all within two heads, Violent, and Voluntary: the Violent is, when either it comes accidentally, or when we would live and cannot: the Voluntary is, when we may live and will not; and in this we may include the blessedest or all deaths, Martyrdome. I will begin with the first, and because gold is a mettall that all degrees, cal∣lings, trades, mysteries, and professions, of either Sex, espe∣cially acquire after: I will therefore first exemplifie them that have died golden deaths.

Of the Mistresse of Brennus. Of Tarpeia, and Acco a Ro∣man Matron.

OF Midas the rich King, and of his golden wish, I pre∣sume you are not ignorant, and therefore in vain it were to insist upon his history, my businesse is at this time with women. Brennus an Englishman, and the younger bro∣ther to Belinus, both sons of Donwallo, was by reason of com∣position with his brother, with whom he had been competi∣tor

in the Kingdome, disposed into France, and leading an army of the Gals, invaded forrein Countries, as Germany, Italy, sacking Rome, and piercing Greece: Insomuch, that his glory was stretched so far, that the French Chroniclers would take him quite from us, and called him Rex Gallo∣rum, witnesse Plutarch in his seventeenth Parallel. This Bren∣nus spoiling and wasting Asia, came to besiege Ephesus, where falling in love with a wanton of that City, he grew so inward with her, that upon promise of reward she vow∣ed to deliver the City into his hands: the conditions were, that he being possessed of the Town, should deliver into her ••ate custody, as many jewels, rings, and as much treasure as should countervaile so great a benefit; to which he assen∣ted. The Town delivered, and he being victor, she attended her reward;* 1.94 when Brennus commanded all his souldiers from the first to the last, to cast what gold or silver or jew∣els they had got in the spoil of the City, into her lap; which amounted to such an infinite masse that with the weight thereof she was suffocated and prest to death. This Cliti∣phon delivers in his first book Rerum Gallicar▪ to answer which, Aristides Melesius in Italicis, speaks of Tarpeia,* 1.95 a No∣ble Virgin, or at least nobly descended, and one of the Kee∣pers of the Capitol: she in the war betwixt the Sabines and the Romans, covenanted with King Tatius, then the publick enemy, to give him safe accesse into the mountain Tarpeia, so he would for a reward but possesse her of all the gold and jewels which his souldiers the Sabins had then about them. This she performing, they were likewise wil∣ling to keep their promise, but withall loathing the cove∣tousnesse of the woman, threw so much of the spoile and treasure upon her, that they buried her in their riches, and she expi••ed admist a huge Magazin. But remarkable above these is the old woman Acco or Acca,* 1.96 who having done an extraordinary courtesie for the City of Rome, they knew not better how to require her then knowing her a varitious disposition, to give her free liberty to go into the common treasury, and take thence as much gold as she could carry. The wretched woman overjoied with this donative, ente∣red the place to make her pack or burden, which was ei∣ther so little she would not beare, or so great she could not 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and swetting and striving beneath the burden, so ex∣p••••ed. The like though something a more violent death, died the Emperor Galba, who in his life time being insati∣ate

o•• gold, as being covetous above all the Emperors be∣fore him, they poured molten gold down his throat to con∣firm in him that old Adage, Qualis vita, finis ita. The like was read of the rich Roman Crassus.

Of such as have died in child-birth.

THough of these be infinites, and daily seen amongst us, yet it is nor altogether amisse to speak something though never so little,* 1.97 which may have reference to antiqui∣ty. Volaterranus remembers us of Tulliota the daughter of Marcus Cicero, who being first placed with Dolobella, and after with Piso Crassipides, died in Child-bed. The like Sue∣tonius puts us in mind of Junia Claudilla,* 1.98 who was daugh∣ter to the most noble Marcus Sillanus, and wife to the Em∣peror Ca••us Caligula, who died after the same manner H••gi∣nus in his two hundred threescore and fourth Fable, tels this tale: In the old time saith he, there were no midwives at all, and for that cause many women in their modesty, ra∣ther suffered themselves to perish for want of help, then that any man should be seen or known to come about them. Above all, the Athenians were most curious that no ser∣vant or woman should learn the art of Chirurgery. There was a damosell of that City, that was very industrious in the search of such mysteries,* 1.99 whose name was Agnodice, but wanting means to attaine unto that necessary skill, she cau∣sed her head to be shorn, and putting on the habit of a young man, got her selfe into the service of one Hierophilus a Physitian, and by her industry and study, having attained to the depth of his skill, and the height of her own desires, upon a time hearing where a Noble Lady was in child-birth, in the middest of her painfull throwes, she offered her selfe to her help, whom the modest Lady (mistaking her Sex) would by no perswasion suffer her to come neer her, till she was forced to strip her selfe before the women, and to give evident signe of her woman-hood. After which she had accesse to many, proving so fortunate, that she grew ve∣ry famous. Insomuch, that being envied by the Colledge of the Physitians, she was complained on to the Areopagitae, or the nobility of the Senate: such in whose power it was to censure and determine of all causes and controversies. Ag∣nodice thus convented, they pleaded against her youth and boldnesse, accusing her rather a corrupter of their chastities,

then any way a curer of their infirmities; blaming the ma∣trons as counterfeiting weaknesse, purposely to have the company and familiarity of a loose and intemperate young man. They prest their accusations so far, that the Judges were ready to proceed to sentence against her; when she opening her brest before the Senate, gave manifest testi∣mony that she was no other then a woman: at this the Physitians being the more incens'd, made the fact the more heinous, in regard that being a woman, she durst enter into the search of that knowledge, of which their Sex by the law was not capable. The cause being ready again to go against her, the noblest matrons of the City assembled themselves before the Senate, and plainly told them, they were rather enemies then husbands, who went about to punish her, that of all their Sex had bin the most studious for their ge∣nerall health and safety. Their importancy so far prevailed, after the circumstances were truly considered, that the first decree was quite abrogated, and free liberty granted to women to employ themselves in those necessary offices, without the presence of men. So that Athens was the first City of Greece, that freely admitted or Midwives by the means of this damosell Agnodice.

Of women that suffered martyrdome.

ANd of these in briefe.* 1.100 Corona was a religious woman who suffered martyrdome under the Tyranny of An∣tonius the Emperor, Her death was after this manner, she was tied by the arms and legs betwixt two trees, whose stiffe branches were forced and bowed down for the purpose, the bowes being shackned and let loose, her body was tossed in∣to the aire, and so cruelly dissevered limb from limb. Ana∣tholia a virgin, by the severe command of Faustinianus the President, was transpierc'd with a sword. Felicula (as Plu∣tarch witnesseth) when by no perswasion or threats, promi∣ses or torments, she could be forced to renounce the Chri∣stian Faith, by the command of Flaccus Comes, she was com∣manded to be shut up in a jakes, and there stilled to death. Murita had likewise the honour of a Martyr, who being banished by Elphedorus a certaine Arrian, opprest with cold and hunger, most miserably died. Hyrene the virgin, because she would not abjure her faith and religion, was by Sisim∣mius shot through with an arrow. The like death suffered

the martyr Christiana under Julian the Apostata. Paulina a Roman Virgin, and daughter to the Prefect Artemius, was with her mother Candida stoned to death by the command of the Tyrant Dioclesian▪ Agatho virgo Catanensis was strang∣led in Prison, by the command of the Consul Quintianus. Theodora, a virgin of Antioch, was beheaded by the tyranny of Dioclesian. Julia Countesse of Eulalia, suffered the same death under the President Diaconus. Margarita, a maid and a martyr, had her head cut off by Olibrius. Zoe the wife of Nicostratus, was nailed unto a crosse, and so ended her life, partly with the torture of the gibbet, and partly with the smoke (that the executioner made at the foot of the gal∣lowes) suffocated. Julia Carthagensis, because she would not bow to idols, and adore the fal••e heathen gods, but was a constant professor of the Christian Faith, was martyred af∣ter the selfe same manner. Emerita the sister of Lucius King of England (who had the honour to be called the first Christian King of this Country) she suffered for the Faith by fire. Alexandria was the wife of Dacianus the President, who being converted to the Faith by blessed Saint George, was therefore by the bloody murderer her husbands own hands strangled Maximianus the son of Dioclesian, with his own hands likewise slew his naturall sister Artemia, be∣cause that forsaking all Idolatry, she proved a convert, to the true Christian Faith. Flavia Domicilla, a noble Lady of Rome, was banished into the Isle Pon••ia in the fifteenth yeare of the raign 〈◊〉〈◊〉 D••n••tian, for no other reason but that she constantly professed her selfe to be a Christian These two following suffered persecution under Antonius Verus in France: Blondina who is said to weary her tormentors, pa∣tiently enduring more then they could malitiously inflict, insomuch, that before she fainted, they confessed themselves overcome, she ready still to suffer and beare, when they had not blowes to give, for as oft as she spake these words, I am a Christian neither have I committed any evill, she see∣med to the spectators of her martyrdome, to be so refreshed and comforted from above, that she felt no paine or anguish in the middest of her torture, and in that patience she con∣tinued without alternation even to the last ga••••. Bi••••is, one that before through her womanish weaknesse had fai••••ed for fear o•• torments, comming to see her with others ex••••u∣ted, was so strengthened to behold their constancy, that as it were awakened out of her former dream, and comparing

those temporall punishments (which lasted but a moment) with the eternall pains of hell fire, gave up her selfe free∣ly for the Gospels sake. Dionysius in an Epistle to Fabius Bishop of Antioch, reckons up those that suffered martyr∣dome under Decius the Emperor. Quinta a faithfull wo∣man, was by the Infidels brought into a Temple of their Idols, unto which because she denied divine adoration, they bound her hand and foot, and most inhumanely dragged her along the streets upon the sharp stones; but when that could not prevaile with her, they beat her head and sides, and bruised them against Mil••stones, that done, she was pitiously scourged, and lastly, bloodily executed. The same L••ctors laid hands on Apollonia, a Virgin, but something grounded in years, and because she spake boldly in the de∣fence of her Faith first with barbarous cruelty they beat out her teeth, then without the City they prepared a huge pile, threatning to burn her instantly unlesse she would re∣nounce her Christianity, but she seeming to pause a little, as if she meant better to consider of the matter, (when they least suspected) leapt suddenly into the fire, and was there consumed to ashes. Ammomarion, a holy Virgin, after the suffering of many torments under the same Tyrant, gave up her life an acceptable sacrifice for the Gospell. Mer∣curia▪ a vertuous woman, and one Dionysia a fruitfull and child-bearing martyr, after they were questioned about their faith, and in all arguments boldly opposed the Jud∣ges, were first rackt and tortured till they were past all sence of feeling, that done, they caused them to be execu∣ted. Theodosia was a virgin of Tyrus; about the age of eigh∣teen years, she comming to visit certaine prisoners at Ce∣sarea who were called to the bar, and because they stood stedfastly in the defence of the Gospell, prepared them∣selves to hear the most welcome sentence of death pro∣nounced against them:* 1.101 which Theodosia seeing, gently sa∣luted them, comforted them, and perswaded them to conti∣nue in their constancy, withall, humbly desired them to remember her devoutly in their praiers, which she knew would be acceptable to him, for whose love they so freely offered up their lives. The Officers this hearing, dragged her before the President, who at first despising her youth, began to talk with her as to a child, but finding her answers modest and weighty, began further to argue with her; but seeing himselfe unable to hold argument as being con∣vinced

in all things, he grew into such a malitious rage, that he first caused her to be scourged before his face, even till the flesh gave way to discover the bones; but this not prevailing, he commanded her instantly to be dragged from thence, and from an high place to be cast headlong into the sea. I will conclude this discourse of Martyrs, with one of our own modern stories: Our English Chroniclers report, that Maximus the Emperour having held long war with one Conon Meridock a re••olute and bold Brittain, ha∣ving in many bloody conflicts sped diversly, sometimes the victory inclining to one side, and then to another, but in conclusion to the losse of both; their hostility was by mediation at length attoned, and a firm peace esta∣blisht betwixt them: that done, Maximus made war upon the Gals, and invading a Province then called America (but since Little Brittain) he won it by the sword, and af∣ter surreendered it to Conon to hold it for ever as of the Kings of Great Brittain.* 1.102 This Conon Meridock was a Welch man, and from these it may be, That all that Nation assume to themselves the name of Brittains. This eminent Captain being only furnisht with souldiers for the present warres, but wanting women to maintein further issue, to him was sent S. Vesula, with eleven thousand virgins to be espo••∣to Conon and his Knights. But being met at sea by Pagan Pirates, because they would neither change their faith, nor prostitute themselves to their barbarous and beastly lusts, they were all by these inhumane wretches cut to pieces, and cast over boo••d, and therefore in mine opinion not un∣worthily reckoned amongst the Martyrs. From these I will proceed to others.

Aristoclaea.

OF all the deaths that I have read of; this of Aristoclaea methinks exceeds example, with which, howsoever her body was tormented,* 1.103 〈◊〉〈◊〉 soul could not be grieved, for ne∣ver woman died such a loving death. Plutarch in his Ama∣torious narrations, hath thus delivered it: Aliartes is a Ci∣ty of Boeotia, in which was born a virgin so beautified and adorned with all the gifts and perfections of nature, as she seemed unparalleld through Greece; her name was Ari∣stoclaea, the sole daughter of Theophanes. To her there were many sutors, but three especially of the noblest families of

the City, Strato, Orchomenius, and Calisthenes Aliartius: Of these Strato being the richest, he seemed the most endea∣red to her in affection▪ for he had first seen her at Lebedaea, bathing her selfe in the fountaine Hercyne, from whence having a basket upon her arm, which she was to use in the sacrifice to Jupiter, he took a full view of her in her way to the Temple: yet Callisthenes he sed himselfe with the great∣er hopes, because he was of more proximity, and virgin in in alliance: betwixt these two Orchomenius stood as a man indifferent. Her father Theophanes upon their importuni∣ties doubtfull, and not yet having determined on which to confer his daughter, as fearing Strato's potency who in wealth and nobility equalled if not anteceded the best the in the City, he therefore put it off to one Trophonius to be decided: but Strato most confident in his own opinion and strength, took the power of her disposing from Trop••onius, and gave it up freely into her own will. The damosell in a confluence of all her kindred and friends gathered for that purpose,and in the sight of he•• suitors, was publickly demanded, of which of them she made choice? who answe∣red, of Callisthenes. Strato taking this in an i••••econcilable disgrace, and in the greatnesse of his spirit not able to dis∣gest an injury (as he took it) of that 〈…〉〈…〉 his spleen, and some two daies after meeting with Th••o∣phanes and Callisthenes, he gave them a friendly and an un∣expected salutation, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 still a continuance of their ancient love and friendship; that since what many covet one can but enjoy, he could content himselfe with his own lot, howsoever de••••••ing that their amity might remain per∣fect and unchanged: these words came so seemingly from the heart, that they with great joy did not only enterteine his love and voluntary reconcilement, but in all courtesie gave him a solemn invitation to the wedding, which he as complementally enterteined; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon these terms they pa••ted. 〈…〉〈…〉 a crew 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as he might best trust, and add, them to the number of his servants, these he ambushes in divers places, selected for his purpose, but all to be ready at a watch-word. Callisthenes bringing Aristoclaea towards the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 called 〈◊〉〈◊〉, the••e to perform the first sacreds belonging to marriage, according to the cu∣stome of her ancestors; Strato with his faction ariseth, and with his own hands selfeth upon the virgin; on the other side Callisthenes he catcheth the fastest hold he can to keep

her; Strato and his pull one way, Callishenes and his ano∣ther: thus both contending in the heat of their affection, but not regarding her safety whom they did affect, she as it were set upon the rack of love, plucked almost to peeces, be∣twixt them both expired. Which seeing Callisthenes, he was suddenly lost, neither could any man ever after tell what became of him, whether he punished himselfe by some ex∣traordinary death, or betook himselfe to voluntary exile. Strato openly before his own people, transpierc'd himselfe, and fell down dead before the body of Aristoclaea. Of no such death died Democrita whose history next ensueth.

Alcippus the Lacedemonion,* 1.104 had two daughters by his wife Democrita. He having with great justice and integrity mannaged the weal publick, more for the common good, then any peculiar gain or profit of his own, was affronted by an opposite faction, which emulated his goodnesse; and being brought before the Ephori, it was delivered to them in a scandalous and lying oration, how and by what means Alcippus intended to abrogate and annihilate their lawes: for which he was confind from Sparta, neither could his wife and daughters (who willingly offered themselves to attend upon his adversity) be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to associate him, but they were deteined by the power and command of the Ma∣gistrate. Moreover an edict was made, That neither the wi•• was capable of inheritance, nor the daughter of dower out of their fathers goods, notwithstanding they had many 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of such noble Gentlemen as loved them for their fa∣ther vertues. It was likewise by the enemy most enviously suggested to the Senate, that the two Ladies might be de∣barred from 〈…〉〈…〉 their reason was that Democrita was heard often to wish, and withall to presage, that she should see children born of her daughters, who would in time re∣venge the wrongs of their grandfather. This being gran∣ted, and she every way circumscribed both in her selfe, her husband and issue, every way confin'd; she expected a pub∣lick solemnity, in ••hich according to the Custome, the women of the City with the Virgins, houshold servants, and intent, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 meeting, but the matrons and wives of the nobility 〈…〉〈…〉 night-festivall in a conclave or parlor by themselves 〈◊〉〈◊〉 she 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her selfe with a sword, and with her two daughters secretly conveied her selfe into the Tem∣ple, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the time when all the matrons were most bu∣sie about the ceremonies and mysteries in the conclave: then

having made fast the doors and shut up the passages, and heaped together a great quantity of billets with other things combustible, provided for the purpose, but especially all that sweet wood that was ready for the sacrifice of that solemnity she set all on fire: which the men hastning to quench in multitudes, she before them all with a constancy undaunted, first slew her daughters, and after her selfe, ma∣king the ruins of this Temple their last funerall fire. The Lacedemonians having now nothing left of Alcippus a∣gainst which to rage, they caused the bodies of Democrita and her daughters to be cast out of the confines of Sparta. For this ingratitude, it is said by some, that great earth∣quake hapned which had almost overturned the City of La∣cedemon: from Democrita I come to Phillus.

Demophron the son of Theseus and Phaedra, the halfe bro∣ther to Hippolitus, returning from the wars of Troy towards his Country, by tempests and contrary winds being driven upon the coast of Thrace, was gently received and affectio∣nately enterteined by Phillis,* 1.105 daughter to Ly••urgus and Cru∣stumena, then King and Queen of that Country, and not on∣ly to the freedome of all generous hospitality, but to the liberty and accesse unto her bed. He had not long sojour∣ned there, but he had certain tidings of the death of Mue∣sthaeus, who, after his father Thes••us was expulsed Athens had usurped the principility: pleased therefore with the newes of innovation, and surprized with the ambition of succession, he pretending much domestick businesse, with other negotiations pertaining to the publike government, after his faith pawned to Phillis, that his return should be within a month, he got leave for his Countrie: therefore having calked and moored his ship, making them service∣able for the sea, he set saile towards Athens; where arrived, he grew altogether unmindfull of his promised faith, or in∣dented return. Four months being past, and not hearing from him by word or writing, she sent him an Epistle, in which she complains of his absence, then perswads him to cal to mind her more then common courtesies, to keep his faith ingaged to her, and their former contract to make good by marriage; the least of which if he refused to accomplish, her violated honour she would recompence with some cruel and violent death; which she accordingly did, for knowing her selfe to the despised and utterly cast off, she in her fathers Palace hanged her selfe. From Phillis I proceed to Deianeira.

Jupiter begat Hercules of Al••mena, in the shape of her hus∣band Amphitrio, joining three nights in one; whom Euristi∣us King of Micena (at the urgence of his stepmother Juno) imploid in all hazardous and fearfull adventures, not that thereby he might gaine the greater honour, but by such means sooner perish: but his spirit was so great, and his strength so eminent, that from forth all these swallowing dangers he still plunged a victor: amongst these difficul∣ties was that combat against Achelous, a Flood in Aetolia (who transhaped himself into sundry figures for the love of Deianeira daughter to Oeneus and Althaea King and Queen of Calidon, and sister to Meleager) he, whom no monsters nor earthly powers could came, by the conquest of Achilous won Deianeira for his bride. But he whom all tyrants and terrours were subject to, submitted himselfe to effeminacy, and the too much dotage upon women: for when Euritus King of Oechalia had denied him his daughter Iole (before promised him) the City taken and the King slaine, he took her freely into his embraces; with whose love he was so blinded, that her imperious command he laid by his club and Lions skin (the trophies of his former victories) and, which was most unseemly for so great a conquerour, par••on a womanish habit, and blusht not with a distasse in his hand to spin amongst her damosels. In briefe, what slavery and servitude soever he had before suffered under the tyranny of Omphale Queen of Lydia, of whom he begot Lamus, he endured from her: which Deianeira hearing, in a letter she ••aies open to him all his former noble act and victories, that by comparing them with his present 〈◊〉〈◊〉, it the better might encourage him to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, the first, and deter him from the last. But having receved newes of Her∣cules calamity, by reason of the poisoned shire sent him by her servant Lychas dipt in the blood of the Centaur Nessus, in which she thought there had been the vertue to revoke him from all new loves, and establish him in his first (for so Nessus had perswaded her, when in her transwafcage over the flood Evenus, he was slain by the arrow of Hercules dipt in the poison of Lerna) when the (I say) heard of the death of her husband, and that (though unwilling) it hapned by her means, she died by a voluntary wound given by her own hand.* 1.106 Nor such as that which followes. The Ionians through all their Province being punisht with a most fear∣full and horrible pest, insomuch, that it almost swept the

City and Country, and had it longer continued would, have left their places and habitations desolate, they there∣fore demanded of the Oracle a remedy for so great a mis∣chiefe, which returned them this answer, That the plague should never cease till the young man Menalippus and the faire Cometho were slain,* 1.107 and offered in sacrifice to Diana Tryclaria (and the reason was, because he had strumpeted her in the Temple) And notwithstanding their deaths, un∣lesse every yeare at the same season, a perfectly featured youth and a virgin of exquisite beauty (to expiate their transgression) were likewise offered upon the same Altar, the plague should still continue; which was accordingly done, and Menalippus and the faire Cometho were the first dish that was served up to this bloody feast▪ The same au∣thor speaks of the daughter of Aristodemus in this manner.* 1.108 The Messenians and the Lacedemonians have continued a long and tedious war, to the great depopulation of both their Nations, those of Missen•• sent to know of the event of the Oracle at Delphos, and to which party the victory would at length incline. Answered is returned, That they shal be conquerors, and the Lacedemonians have the worst: but upon this condition, To chuse out of the family of the Aepitidarians, a virgin pure and unblemisht, and this damo∣sel to sacrifice to Jupiter. This Aristodemus hearing (a Prince and one of the noblest of the family of the Aepitidarians) willing to gratifie his Countrie, chused out his only daugh∣ter for immolation and sacrifice, which a noble youth of that Nation hearing, surprized both with love and pity; love in hope to enjoy her, and pity, as grieving she should be so dismembred; he thought rather to make shipwrack of her honour then her life, since the one might be by an after∣truth restored, but the other by no earthly mediation reco∣vered. And to this purpose presents himselfe before the Al∣tar, openly attesting that she was by him with child, and therefore not only an unlawfull but abominable offering in eies of Iupiter. No sooner was this charitable slander pro∣nounced by the young man, but the father more inraged at the losse of her honour now, then before commiserating her death, b••ing full of wrath, he usurps the office of the Priest, and wash his sword hewes the poor innocent Lady to peeces. But not many nights after this bloody execution, the Idaea of his daughter bleeding, and with all her wounds about her, presented it selfe to him in his troubled and di∣stracted

sleep; with which being strangely moved, he con∣veied himselfe to the tombe where his daughter lay buried, and there with the same sword slew himselfe.

Herodotus in Euterpe speaks of one Pheretrina Queen of the B••cchaeaus,* 1.109 a woman of a most inhuman cruelty, she was for her tyranny strook by the hand of heaven, her living 〈…〉〈…〉 up with worms and ••••ce, and in that languish∣ing misery gave up the ghost. Propert▪ in his third book, speak•• of one Dyrce,* 1.110 who much grieved that her husband Lycus was surprized with the love of one Antiopa,* 1.111 caused her to be bound to the horns of a mad bull; but her two sons, Z••••bus and Amphtoa comming instantly at the noise of her loud acclamation, they released her from the present dan∣ger, and in revenge of the injury offered to their mother, fastned Dyrce to the same place, who after much affright, and many pitifull and deadly wounds,* 1.112 expired. Consinge was the Queen of Bithinia, and wife to Nicomedes, whose gesture and behaviour appearing too wanton and libidi∣nous in the eies of her husband, he caused to be worried by his own dogs.* 1.113 Plin. lib. 7. Pyrene the daughter to B••br••x, was comprest by Hercules in the mountains that divide Ita∣ly from Spaine, she was after torn in pieces by wild beasts, they were called or her Montes Pyreneae. i. The Pyrenean mountains. Antipater Tarcenses apud Vollateran. speaks of one Gatis,* 1.114 a Queen of Syria, who was cast alive into a moat amongst fishes, and by them devouted, she was likewise cal∣led Atergatis▪* 1.115 Sygambis. was the mother of Darius King of Persia,* 1.116 as Quintus Curtius in his fourth book relates, she died upon a vowed abstinence, for being taken prisoner by Alexander, yet nobly used by him, whether tired with the continuall labour of her journie, or more afflicted with the disease of the mind it is not certain: but falling betwixt the arms of her two daughters (after five daies abstinence from meat, drink, and light) she expired.* 1.117 Semele the mother of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a Theb••n Lady▪ and of the roial race of Cadmus, 〈…〉〈…〉 thunder. Pliny in his second book writes of one Martia great with child,* 1.118 who was strook with thunder, but the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in her womb strook dead only, she her selfe not suffering any hurt or dammage: in which place he re∣members one Marcus Herennius, a Decurion, who in a bright and cleare day, when there appeared in the skie no sign of storm or tempest, was slain by a thunderclap. Pau∣sanias apud Voll••teran.* 1.119 saith, that Helena after the death of

her husband Mentlaus, being banished into Rhodes by Me∣gapenthus and Nicostratus the sons of Orestes, came for res∣cue to Polyzo the wife of Pleopolemus,* 1.120 who being jealous of too much familiarity betwixt her and her husband, caused her to be strangled in a bath: others write of her, that grow∣ing old, and seeing her hairs grown gray, that face grown withered, whose lustre had been the death of so many hun∣dred thousands; she caused her glasse to be broken, and in despair strangled her selfe. The like Caelius lib. 6. cap. 15. remembers us of one Acco,* 1.121 a proud woman in her youth, and grown decrepit through age, finding her brow to be furrowed, and the fresh colour in her cheeks to be quite decaied, grew with the conceit thereof into a strange fren∣zy: some write that she used to talk familiarly to her owne image in the myrrhor, sometimes smile upon it, then again menace it, promise to it, or flatter it, as it came into her fan∣cy: in the end with meer apprehension that she was grown old, and her beauty faded, she fell into a languishing, and so died.* 1.122 Jocasta the incestuous mother to Aeteocles and Po∣lynices, beholding her two sons perish by mutuall wounds, strook with the terror of a deed so facinorous, instantly slew her selfe,* 1.123 So Bisal••ia a maid, despised by Calphurnius Crassus, into whose hands she had betraied the life of her fa∣ther, and freedome of her Country, fell upon a sword and so perished.* 1.124 Zoe the Empresse, with her husband Constantius Monachus, both about one time died of the Pestilence. Gre∣gorius Turonensis,* 1.125 writes of one Austrigilda a famous Queen, who died of a disease, called Disenteria, which is a fl••x or wringing of the bowels. Of the same griefe died Sausones, son to Chilperick.* 1.126 Serena the wife of Dioclesian, for very griefe that so much Martyrs blood was spilt by her husbands re∣morselesse tyranny,* 1.127 fell into a feaver, and so died. Glau∣sinda daughter to the King of the Goths, and wife to Atha∣nagildus, was slain by Chilperick, the son of Clotharius, at the instigation of the strumpet Fredegunda,* 1.128 so saith Volateranus. Sextus Aurelius writes, that the Emperor Constantius, son to Constantius and Helena,* 1.129 caused his wife Fausta (by whose in∣stigation he had slain his son Crispus to die in a ho••scal∣ding bath.* 1.130 Herodotus speaks of Lysides otherwise called Me∣lissa the wife of Periander,* 1.131 who at the suggestion of a strum∣pet, caused her to be slaine, which makes Sabellicus amongst others to wonder, why for that deed only he should be numbred amongst the wise men of Greece. 〈◊〉〈◊〉

Cecilius in his seven and twentieth book upon Pliny accuseth Calphurnius Bestia for poisoning his wives, sleeping. Pliny in his fourteenth book, nominates one Egnatius Melentinus, who slew his wife for no other cause, but that she had drunk wine, and was acquitted of the murder by Romulus.* 1.132 Aucto∣clea the daughter of Sinon, and wife of Lae••••es King of Itha∣ca, when by a false messenger she heard that her son Vlysses was slain at the siege of Troy, suddenly fel down and died. The mother of Antista seeing her daughter forsaken by Pompey the Great,* 1.133 and Aem••l••a received in her stead, over∣co••e with griefe,* 1.134 slew her selfe. Perimela a damosell, was vitiated by Achelous, which her father Hippodamus took in such indignation, that from an high promontory he cast her headlong down into the sea. Hyppomanes a Prince of Achens,* 1.135 deprehending his daughter Lymone in adultery, shut her up in a place with a fierce and cruell horse, but left no kind of food for one or the other, insomuch, that the horse opprest with hunger, devoured her; hence came that Adage 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon Diogineanus, More cruel then Hyppo∣manes Gregorius Turonensis remembers one Deuteria,* 1.136 fearing lest her young daughter now grown ripe and marriage∣able, who might be defl••ured by King Theodebertus, cast her headlong into the river that runs by the City Viridunum, where she was drowned. Orchamus finding his daughter Leucothoe to be vitiated by Apollo,* 1.137 caused her to be buried alive.* 1.138 Lucilla the daughter of Marcus Antonus and Fausta, as Herodian reports, was slaine by the hand of her brother Commodus, against whom she had before made a conjura∣tion. * 1.139 Lychione the daughter of Dedalion, because she durst compare her selfe with Diana, was by the goddesse wounded to death with an arrow; at the celebration of whose exe∣quies, when her body was to be burnt, her father likewise cast himselfe into the fire. Hylonome the she Centaur, seeing her husband Cillarius slain in the battell betwixt the Cen∣taurs and the Lapithes, fell upon his sword, and so expired. Anmianus, and Marcellus lib. 16. have left recorded, that Mithridates King of Pontus, being overcome in a battell by Pompey,* 1.140 committed his daughter Dyraptis, to the safe cu∣stody of the Eunuch Menophilus, to be kept in a strong Cit∣tadel called Syntiarium, which when Manutius Priscus had straitly besieged, and the Eunuch perceived the defenders of the Castle dismaid and ready to submit themselves and give up the fort, he drew out his sword, and slew her, rather

then she should be mode a captive to the Roman General-Sextas Aurelius writes of the Empresse Sabina the wife of Adrian,* 1.141 who having suffered from him many grosse and ser∣vile injuries, gave her selfe up to a voluntary death, when she considered she had supported so inhumane a tyrant, and such a contagious pest to the Common weal. Pontus de For∣tuna, * 1.142 speaks of a virgin amongst the Salattines, called Neae∣ra, who grieving that a young man to whom she was be∣trothed, had forsaken her and made choise of another, cau∣sed her veins to be opened,* 1.143 and bled to death. Cleopatra af∣ter the death of Anthony, lest she should be presented as a Captive, to grace the triumphs of Augustus, gave her arm to the biting of an Asp, of which she died; for in that manner was her picture presented in Rome, of whom Propertius lib. 3. thus speaks,

Brachia spectavi sacris admorsa colubris.

Neaera and Charmione,* 1.144 were the two handmaids of Cleopa∣tra. These (as Plutarch and others report of them) would by no perswasion survive their Queen and mistresse, who per∣ceiving (as they were gasping betwixt life and death) the Crown to be falne from the temples of their dead Lady, raised themselves from the earth with the small strength they had left, and placed it right again on her forehead, that she might the better become her death; which they had no sooner done, but they both instantly fell down and brea∣thed their last; an argument of an unmatchable zeal to the Princesse their Lady Monima Miletia,* 1.145 and Veronicha Chia,* 1.146 were the wives of Mithridates, who understanding of his tragicall fall and miserable end, gave up their lives into the hands of the Eunuch Bochides. Monima first hanged her self, but the weight of her body breaking the cord, she grew somewhat recovered, and fell into this sad acclamation, O execrable power of a diad••••, whose command even in this small sad service I cannot use: which words were no sooner spoke, but she offered her 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the sword of the Eunuch, who instantly dispatched 〈◊〉〈◊〉 both of life and torment. Veronica drank oft a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of wine tempered with person, which dis∣persing into her veins, and keeping her in a languishing torment, her death was likewise hastned by the Eunuch Bo∣chides. * 1.147 A strange madnesse possest the Virgins of Milesia: these, as Aeltanus and others have writ, gave themselves up to voluntary deaths, many or the most strangling them∣selves; this grew so common amongst them, that scarce one

day past in which some one or other of them were not found dead in their chambers. To remedy which mischiefe, the Senators of the City made a decree, That what maid so∣ever should after that time lay violent hands upon her self, the body so found dead, should be stript naked, and in pub∣lick view dragg'd through the streets, freely exposed to the ••ies of all men: The impression of which shame more pre∣vailing then the terror of death, none was ever after known to commit the like outrage upon themselves.* 1.148 Phaedra the step-mother to Hippolitus her son in law, and wife of These∣us, when she could not corrupt a young man her son in law, to make incestuous the bed of his father, despairing, hung her selfe: yet before her death she writ certain letters in which she accused Hippolitus to his father, of incest, which after proved the speedy cause of his death.* 1.149 Amongst ma∣ny strange deaths, these of two mothers are not the least re∣markable: most strange it is, that sudden joy should have much power to suffocate the spirits, as the power of light∣ning. The rumour of the great slaughter at the Lake of Thrasimenes being published, one woman when beyond all hope she met her son at the City gate, safely returned from the generall defeats, cast her selfe into his arms, where in that extasie of joy she instantly expired. Another hearing her son was slain in the battell, after much sorrow for his death, sitting in her own house and spying him unexpected∣ly comming towards her safe and in health, she was so over∣come with sudden joy, that not able to rise and give him meeting, she died as she sate in her chaire. Most strange it is that joy should make speedier way to death, then sorrow: these mothers Zoe remembred by Valerius Maximus, lib. 9. cap. 12. So much I hope shall suffice for women that have died strange deaths, for I had rather hear of many to live well, then that any one should die ill. I only intreat pa∣tience of the courteous Reader, that as I have begun this book in sadnesse, so he will give me leave to conclude it in jest. Some no doubt (though not justly) will tax me for my too much intermixtion of history, and say there be many things inserted, not pertinent to my project in hand, which might better have been left out then put in: They in my conceit do but dally with me, and put such a trick upon me, as a Gentleman did upon a Country hostler. My tale is but homely, but it hath a significant Moral. This tra∣veller often using to a thorowfare Inne, was much annoied

by reason that betwixt his chamber and the stable,* 1.150 where he commonly used to see his horse drest and meated, there lay great heaps of pullens dung in his way, which much offen∣ded him, and being willing either to be rid of that inconve∣nience, or punish him that might remedy it, he took occa∣sion to ask the hostler what d••nghill that was which was so offensive. He answered him, his master kept great store of pullen about the house, and that was all Hens dung. Hens dung saith the Gentleman, I have a peece of land at home, I would it were all there, if thou canst help me to any quan∣tity of it (being sure that is such) I will give thee twenty shillings a load for as much as thou canst provide, and fetch it away with my own carriage. The fellow hearing this, promised within a month to furnish him with twenty load at least at the same price. The match was made, and the Gentleman after breakfast took horse and departed. The hostler bespeaks all such soile as the Town could affoard, or the next Villages by, and made such a huge heap as an∣noied the whole yard (knowing the Gentleman to have been ever a man of his word) who came according to the time appointed. The hostler is glad to see him, and tels him he hath provided him of his commodity, and withall brings him to the place where it lay like a laystall. The Gentle∣man seems wondrous glad of this new merchandise, and drawer out certain peeces out of his pocket, as if he meant to give him present paiment, but withall asked him, Art thou sure all this is hens dung? upon my life it is, saith the host∣ler, expecting still to finger the gold. But (replied the Gentleman) art thou sure there is no cocks dung amongst it? O lord yes (saith the hostler) how can it be else? why then quoth the Gentleman, I pray thee make thy best of it good friend, for i•• there be the least ••••cks dung amongst it, it will do me no pleasure, I will not give thee three far∣things for it all. Thus was the bostler, notwithstanding his former cost, forced to ••••move all that muckhill, and make the yard clean at his own charge, with much addition of mockery and laughter. I•• for a little quantity of cocks dung you 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at all the rest here included, the better judgement I hope will imput•• it, as to my simplicity, so to your over 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Another main thing is to be feared, wherein I must of force 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the censure of some or other, namely, Why amongst 〈◊〉〈◊〉 histories I have inserted Mortyrs, and to confirm their truth have brought Authors

that have been held superstitious? I answer to all in gene∣rall, I have only specified such things as I have read, and for my own opinion I keep it reserved. But because I now come to a conclusion, I will end this book thus briefly, in regard that women die, and so do many die, and that they die at all, I will give you a womans reason why it is so, Because they can live no longer.

Explicit lib. quartus. Inscriptus Melpomene.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The name of birds common in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Coun∣••••••▪
• * 1.2

  Herod. l 1. These wals the Queen Nicocris who after some years succeeded her, made much more stately, ex∣ceeding her in all her 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.3

  Tagenna a women of seventy cu∣bits high.
• * 1.4

  Lib. 1.
• * 1.5

  Canusia.
• * 1.6

  Valer. Tus.
• * 1.7

  Opaea.
• * 1.8

  Berenices.
• * 1.9

  Arsinoe.
• * 1.10

  Herodias.
• * 1.11

  Faustina,
• * 1.12

  Lucilla.
• * 1.13

  Christiana.
• * 1.14

  Stratonice.
• * 1.15

  Casperia.
• * 1.16

  Livia.
• * 1.17

  Horestilla.
• * 1.18

  Lollia Paul.
• * 1.19

  Caesonia.
• * 1.20

  Commod. born the same day that Calig. vitiated the Vestall vir∣gin.
• * 1.21

  Capitolin.
• * 1.22

  The riddle of Sphinx.
• * 1.23

  Plutarh de Homero.
• * 1.24

  De re Poet. lib. 3.
• * 1.25

  Aemus a hil in Thes∣saly where same say Homer was born.
• * 1.26

  A strange Incest.
• * 1.27

  L. 9. c. 47. Incest abo∣minable in beasts.
• * 1.28

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.29

  Veronica.
• * 1.30

  Cap. 17.
• * 1.31

  Faustina the wife of Claudius.
• * 1.32

  Lib. 4.
• * 1.33

  The punish∣ment of a∣dultery.
• * 1.34

  De reip. Ge∣revi. prae∣ceptis.
• * 1.35

  An impu∣dent whore∣dome.
• * 1.36

  Messalina.
• * 1.37

  A Countrie fellow and his mistress.
• * 1.38

  Fabia.
• * 1.39

  Thimen.
• * 1.40

  Nevina.
• * 1.41

  A young Ci∣tizens wife.
• * 1.42

  A strange cure.
• * 1.43

  An unnatu∣rall wife.
• * 1.44

  Faustina ••ife to Marcus Philoso∣phus.
• * 1.45

  The birth of Commo∣dus.
• * 1.46

  A notable Imopster.
• * 1.47

  Phaedima.
• * 1.48

  ••••••ceit dis∣covered.
• * 1.49

  Adultery:
• * 1.50

  The wife of Otho the 3.
• * 1.51

  Noble justice
• * 1.52

  The birth of Alexander
• * 1.53

  Lib. 14.
• * 1.54

  By Euri∣dice and King Ari∣staeus.
• * 1.55

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.56

  A miserable death.
• * 1.57

  A rare ex∣ample of chastity.
• * 1.58

  Ethelbur∣ga.
• * 1.59

  A merry ac∣cident.
• * 1.60

  Aelian l. 7.
• * 1.61

  Bias Pria∣naeus.
• * 1.62

  Pittacus▪
• * 1.63

  Matilaenus.
• * 1.64

  Cl••obulu••.
• * 1.65

  Lindius.
• * 1.66

  Pe••tand••.
• * 1.67

  Corint••••▪
• * 1.68

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.69

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.70

  L••cedem••.
• * 1.71

  Thales M••¦••eliu••.
• * 1.72

  A true dis∣course.
• * 1.73

  The wife of Gengul∣phus.
• * 1.74

  Isabella.
• * 1.75

  Corumbona.
• * 1.76

  Friga.
• * 1.77

  Zoe.
• * 1.78

  Carlotta.
• * 1.79

  Deuteria.
• * 1.80

  Julia Grec••
• * 1.81

  Eugenia.
• * 1.82

  Malentia.
• * 1.83

  Elfritha.
• * 1.84

  Emma.
• * 1.85

  A strange Tale.
• * 1.86

  Justina.
• * 1.87

  Mariamnes.
• * 1.88

  Dosides.
• * 1.89

  Metheta.
• * 1.90

  Cleopatra.
• * 1.91

  Beronica.
• * 1.92

  Saloma.
• * 1.93

  Herodias.
• * 1.94

  The reward of Covetous∣nesse.
• * 1.95

  Tarpeia.
• * 1.96

  Acco.
• * 1.97

  Tulliota.
• * 1.98

  Junia. Claudilla.
• * 1.99

  Agnodice.
• * 1.100

  Corona.
• * 1.101

  Theodosia.
• * 1.102

  How Welch∣men come to be called Brittains.
• * 1.103

  Plutarch in Amator••. narrat.
• * 1.104

  Democrita.
• * 1.105

  Phillis.
• * 1.106

  Joannes Wyerius, lib. 1.
• * 1.107

  Cometho.
• * 1.108

  The daugh∣ters of Ari∣stodemus.
• * 1.109

  Pheretrina.
• * 1.110

  Dyrce.
• * 1.111

  Antiopa.
• * 1.112

  Consinge.
• * 1.113

  Pyrene.
• * 1.114

  Gatis.
• * 1.115

  Atergatis.
• * 1.116

  Sygambes.
• * 1.117

  Semele.
• * 1.118

  Martia.
• * 1.119

  Helena.
• * 1.120

  Polyzo.
• * 1.121

  Acco.
• * 1.122

  Jocasta.
• * 1.123

  Bisalcia.
• * 1.124

  Zoe.
• * 1.125

  Austrigilda.
• * 1.126

  Serena.
• * 1.127

  Glausinda.
• * 1.128

  Fredegunda▪
• * 1.129

  Fausta.
• * 1.130

  Lysides.
• * 1.131

  Melissa.
• * 1.132

  Auctoclea.
• * 1.133

  Antista.
• * 1.134

  Perimela.
• * 1.135

  Lymone.
• * 1.136

  Deuteria.
• * 1.137

  Leucothoe.
• * 1.138

  Lucilla.
• * 1.139

  Lychione.
• * 1.140

  Dyraptis.
• * 1.141

  Sabina.
• * 1.142

  Neaera.
• * 1.143

  Cleopatra.
• * 1.144

  Neaera and Charmione.
• * 1.145

  Monima. Milesia.
• * 1.146

  Veronica. Chya.
• * 1.147

  The Milesi∣an Virgins.
• * 1.148

  Phaedra.
• * 1.149

  Two mo∣thers.
• * 1.150

  The Hostlers Tale.