The history of Britain, that part especially now call'd England from the first traditional beginning, continu'd to the Norman conquest / collected out of the antientest and best authours thereof by John Milton.

THE HISTORY OF BRITAIN. The Fourth Book. (Book 4)

THE Saxons grown up now to 7 abso∣lute Kingdoms, and the latest of them establish'd by succession, finding thir power arrive well nigh at the utmost of what was to be gain'd upon the Bri∣tans, and as little fearing to be displanted by them, had time now to survey at leasure one anothers greatness. Which quickly bred among them, either envy, or mutual jealousies; till the West Kingdom at length grown over powerful, put an end to all the rest. Mean while, above others, Ethelbert of Kent, who by this time had well rip'nd his young ambition, * 1.1 with more ability of years and experience in War,

what before he attempted to his loss, now success∣fully attains; and by degrees brought all the other Monarchies between Kent and Humber, to be at his devotion. To which design the Kingdom of West-Saxons, being the firmest of them all, at that time sore shak'n by thir over-throw at Wodens-beorth, and the Death of Keaulin, gave him no doubt a main advantage; the rest yeilded not subjection, but as he earn'd it by continual Victories. And to win him * 1.2 the more regard abroad, he marries Bertha the French Kings Daughter, though a Christian, and with this condition, to have the free exercise of her Faith, under the care and instruction of Letardus a Bishop, sent by her Parents along with her; the King notwithstanding and his people retaining thir own Religion. Beda out of Gildas laies it sadly to the * 1.3 Britans charge, that they never would voutsafe thir Saxon Neighbours the means of conversion: but how far to blame they were, and what hope there was of converting in the midst of so much hostility, * 1.4 at least falshood from thir first arrival, is not now ea∣sie to determin. Howbeit not long after, they had the Christian Faith preach't to them by a Nation * 1.5 more remote, and (as a report went, accounted old in Bedas time) upon this occasion.

The Northumbrians had a custom at that time, and many hunder'd yeares after not abolish't, to sell thir Childern for a small value into any Foren Land. Of which number, two comly youths were brought to Rome, whose fair and honest countnances invited Gregory Arch-Deacon of that Citty, among others that beheld them, pittying thir condition, to demand whence they were; it was answer'd by som who stood by, that they were Angli of the Province Deira, subjects to Alla King of Northumberland, and

by Religion Pagans. Which last Gregory deploring, fram'd on a sudden this allusion to the three names he heard; that the Angli so like to Angels should be snatch't de ira, that is, from the wrath of God, to sing Haleluia: and forthwith obtaining licence of Benedic the Pope, had come and preach't heer a∣mong them, had not the Roman people, whose love endur'd not the absence of so vigilant a Pastor over them, recall'd him then on his journey, though but deferr'd his pious intention. [An. Dom. 596] For a while after, suc∣ceeding in the Papal Seat, and now in his fourth year, admonisht, saith Beda, by divine instinct, he sent Augustine whom he had design'd for Bishop of the English Nation, and other zealous Monks with him, to preach to them the Gospel. Who being now on thir way, discouraged by some reports, or thir own carnal fear, sent back Austin, in the name of all, to beseech Gregory they might return home, and not be sent a journey so full of hazard, to a fierce and in∣fidel Nation, whose tongue they understood not. Gregory with pious and Apostolic perswasions exhorts them not to shrink back frō so good a work, but cheer∣fully to go on in the strength of divine assistance. The Letter it self yet extant among our Writers of Ecclesiastic story, I omit heer, as not professing to relate of those matters more then what mixes aptly with civil affairs. The Abbot Austin, for so he was or∣dain'd over the rest, reincourag'd by the exhorta∣tions of Gregory, and his fellows by the Letter which he brought them, came safe to the Ile of Tanet, [An. Dom. 597] in number about 40, besides some of the French Na∣tion whom they took along as Interpreters. Ethel∣bert the King, to whom Austin at his landing had sent a new and wondrous message, that he came from Rome to proffer Heav'n and eternal happiness in the

knowledge of another God then the Saxons knew, appoints them to remain where they landed, and ne∣cessaries to be provided them, consulting in the mean time what was to be done. And after certain days coming into the Iland, chose a place to meet them under the open Sky, possest with an old perswasion, that all Spells, if they should use any to deceive him, so it were not within doors, would be unavailable. They on the other side call'd to his presence, advan∣cing for thir Standard, a silver cross, and the painted image of our Saviour, came slowly forward singing the solemn Litanies: which wrought in Ethelbert more suspition perhaps that they us'd enchantments; till sitting down as the King will'd them, they there preach'd to him, and all in that assembly, the tidings of Salvation. Whom having heard attentively, the King thus answer'd. Fair indeed and ample are the promises which ye bring, and such things as have the appearance in them of much good; yet such as being new and uncertain, I cannot hastily assent to, quitting the Religion which from my Ancestors, with all the English Nation, so many years I have retain'd. Nevertheless because ye are strangers, and have en∣dur'd so long a journey, to impart us the knowledge of things, which I perswade me you believe to be the truest and the best, ye may be sure we shall not recompence you with any molestation, but shall pro∣vide rather how we may friendliest entertain ye; nor do we forbid whom ye can by preaching gain to your belief. And accordingly thir residence he al∣lotted them in Doroverne or Canturbury his chief Cit∣ty, and made provision for thir maintenance, with free leave to preach their doctrine where they plea∣sed. By which, and by the example of thir holy life, spent in prayer, fasting, and continual labour in the

conversion of Souls, they won many; on whose bounty and the Kings, receiving only what was ne∣cessary, they subsisted. There stood without the Citty, on the East-side, an ancient Church built in honour of St. Martin, while yet the Romans remain'd heer: in which Bertha the Queen went out usually to pray: Heer they also began first to preach, ba∣ptize, and openly to exercise divine worship. [An. Dom. 598] But when the King himself convinc't by thir good life & miracles, became Christian, and was baptized, which came to pass in the very first year of thir arrival, then multitudes daily, conforming to thir Prince, thought it honour to be reckon'd among those of his faith. To whom Ethelbert indeed principally shew∣ed his favour, but compell'd none. For so he had bin taught by them who were both the Instructors * 1.6 and the Authors of his faith, that Christian Religion ought to be voluntary, not compell'd. About this time Kelwulf the Son of Cutha Keaulins Brother reign'd over the West-Saxons,* 1.7 after his Brother Keola or Kelric, and had continual War either with English, Welch, Picts, or Scots. [An. Dom. 601] But Austin, whom with his fellows,* 1.8 Ethelbert now had endow'd with a better place for thir abode in the Citty, and other possessi∣ons necessary to livelihood, crossing into France, was by the Archbishop of Arles, at the appointment of Pope Gregory, ordain'd Archbishop of the English: and returning, sent to Rome Laurence and Peter, two of his associates, to acquaint the Pope of his good success in England, and to be resolv'd of certain Theo∣logical, or rather Levitical questions: with answers to which, not proper in this place, Gregory sends also to the great work of converting, that went on so hap∣pily, a supply of labourers, Mellitus, Justus, Pauli∣nus, Rufinian, and many others; who what they

were, may be guess't by the stuff which they brought with them, vessels and vestments for the Altar, Coaps, reliques, and for the Archbishop Austin a Pall to say Mass in: to such a rank superstition that Age was grown, though some of them yet retaining an emu∣lation of Apostolic zeal: lastly, to Ethelbert they brought a letter with many presents. Austin thus exalted to Archiepiscopal authority, recover'd from the ruins and other profane uses, a Christian Church in Canturbury built of old by the Romans; which he dedicated by the name of Christs Church, and joyn∣ing to it built a seat for himself and his successors; a Monastery also neer the Citty Eastward, where Ethelbert at his motion built St. Peters, and enrich't it with great endowments, to be a place of burial for the Archbishops and Kings of Kent: so quickly they step't up into fellowship of pomp with Kings. While thus Ethelbert and his people had thir minds intent, * 1.9 Ethelfrid the Northumbrian King, was not less bufied in far different affairs: for being altogether warlike, and covetous of fame, he more wasted the Britans then any Saxon King before him; winning from them large Territories, which either he made tribu∣tary, or planted with his own Subjects. [An. Dom. 603] Whence Edan King of those Scots that dwelt in Britain, jea∣lous of his successes, came against him with a mighty Army, to a place call'd Degsastan; but in the fight loosing most of his men, himself with a few escap'd: only Theobald the Kings brother, and the whole wing which he commanded, unfortunately cut off, made the Victory to Ethelfrid less intire. Yet from that time no King of Scots in hostile manner durst pass into Britain for a hunderd and more years after: and what some years before, Kelwulf the West-Saxon is annal'd to have done against the Scots and Picts, pas∣sing

through the Land of Ethelfrid a King so potent, unless in his aid and alliance, is not likely. Buchanan writes as if Ethelfrid, assisted by Keaulin whom he mis∣titles King of East-Saxons, had before this time a bat∣tel with Aidan, wherein Cutha Keaulins son was slain. But Cutha, as is above written from better authority, was slain in fight against the Welch 20 years before. [An. Dom. 604] The number of Christians began now to increase so * 1.10 fast, that Augustine ordaining Bishops under him, two of his assistants Mellitus and Justus, sent them out both to the work of thir ministry. And Mellitus by preaching converted the East-Saxons, over whom Sebert the son of Sleda, by permission of Ethelbert, being born of his sister Ricula, then reign'd. Whose conversion Ethelbert to gratulate, built them the great Church of St. Paul in London to be their Bishops Ca∣thedral; as Justus also had his built at Rochester, and both gifted by the same King with fair possessions. Hitherto Austin laboured well among Infidels, but not with like commendation soon after among Chri∣stians. For by means of Ethelbert summoning the Britan Bishops to a place on the edge of Worcester∣shire, call'd from that time Augustines Oke, he re∣quires them to conform with him in the same day of celebrating Easter, and many other points wherein they differ'd from the rites of Rome: which when they refus'd to do, not prevailing by dispute, he ap∣peals to a miracle, restoring to sight a blind man whom the Britans could not cure. At this something mov'd, though not minded to recede from thir own opinions without furder consultation, they request a second meeting: to which came seven Britan Bi∣shops, with many other lerned men, especially from the famous Monastery of Bangor, in which were said to be so many Monks, living all by thir own labour,

that being divided under seven Rectors, none had fewer then 300. One man there was who staid be∣hind, a Hermit by the life he led, who by his wisdom effected more then all the rest who went: being de∣manded, for they held him as an Oracle, how they might know Austin to be a man from God, that they might follow him, he answer'd, that if they found him meek and humble, they should be taught by him, for it was likeliest to be the yoke of Christ, both what he bore himself, and would have them bear; but if he bore himself proudly, that they should not regard him, for he was then certainly not of God. They took his advice, and hasted to the place of meeting. Whom Austin being already there before them, neither arose to meet, nor receiv'd in any bro∣therly sort, but sat all the while pontifically in his Chair. Whereat the Britans, as they were counsel'd by the holy man, neglected him, and neither hark'∣n'd to his proposals of conformity, nor would ac∣knowledge him for an Archbishop: And in name * 1.11 of the rest, Dinothus then Abbot of Bangor, is said, thus sagely to have answer'd him. As to the sub∣jection which you require, be thus perswaded of us, that in the bond of love and charity we are all Sub∣jects and Servants to the Church of God, yea to the Pope of Rome, and every good Christian to help them forward, both by word and deed, to be the Childern of God: other obedience then this we know not to be due to him whom you term the Pope; and this obedience we are ready to give both to him and to every Christian continually. Besides, we are govern'd under God by the Bishop of Caer∣leon, who is to oversee us in spiritual matters. To which Austin thus presaging, some say menacing, re∣plies, since ye refuse to accept of peace with your

brethren, ye shall have War from your enemies; and since ye will not with us preach the word of life, to whom ye ought, from their hands ye shall receive death. This, though Writers agree not whether Austin spake it as his prophecy, or as his plot against the Britans, fell out accordingly.* 1.12 For many years were not past, when Ethelfrid, whether of his own accord, [An. Dom. 607] or at the request of Ethelbert incens't by Au∣stin, with a powerful host came to Westchester, then Caer-legion. Where being met by the British Forces, and both sides in readiness to give the onset, he dis∣cernes a company of men, not habited for War, standing together in a place of some safety; and by them a Squadron arm'd. Whom having lernt up∣on some enquiry to be Priests and Monks, assem∣bl'd thither after three days fasting, to pray for the good success of thir Forces against him, therefore they first, faith he, shall feel our Swords; for they who pray against us, fight heaviest against us by thir prayers, and are our dangerousest enemies. And with that turns his first charge upon the Monks: Brocmail the Captain set to guard them, quickly turns his back, and leaves above 1200 Monks to a sudden massacher, whereof scarse fifty scap'd, but not so easie work found Ethelfrid against another part of Britans that stood in arms, whom though at last he overthrew, yet with slaughter nigh as great to his own souldiers. To excuse Austin of this bloodshed, lest some might think it his revengeful policy, Beda writes that he was dead long before, although if the time of his sitting Archbishop be right computed sixteen years, he must survive this action. Other just ground of charging him with this imputatión * 1.13 appears not, save what evidently we have from Gef∣fry Monmouth, whose weight we know. The same

year Kelwulf made War on the South-Saxons, bloody, * 1.14 saith Huntingdon, to both sides, but most to them of the South: [An. Dom. 611] and four years after dying left the Go∣vernment * 1.15 of West-Saxons to Kinegils and Cuichelm the sons of his brother Keola. Others, as Florent of Worster and Mathew of Westminster, will have Cuichelm son of Kinegils, but admitted to reign with his father, [An. Dom. 614] in whose third year they are recorded with joynt Forces or conduct to have fought against the Britans * 1.16 in Beandune, now Bindon in Dorsetshire, [An. Dom. 616] and to have slain of them above two thousand. More memora∣ble * 1.17 was the second year following, by the death of Ethelbert the first Christian King of Saxons, and no less a favourer of all civility in that rude age. He gave Laws and Statutes after the example of Roman Emperors, written with the advice of his sagest Counsellors, but in the English tongue, and observ'd long after. Wherein his special care was to punish those who had stoln ought from Church or Church∣man, thereby shewing how gratefully he receiv'd at thir hands the Christian Faith. Which, he no sooner dead, but his son Eadbald took the course as fast to extinguish; not only falling back to Heathenism, but that which Heathenism was wont to abhor, mar∣rying his fathers second wife. Then soon was per∣ceiv'd what multitudes for fear or countenance of the King had profess't Christianity, returning now as eagerly to thir old Religion. Nor staid the Apo∣stacy within one Province, but quickly spread over to the East-Saxons; occasion'd there likewise, or set forward by the death of thir Christian King Se∣bert: whose three sons, of whom two are nam'd Sexted and Seward, neither in his life time would be * 1.18 brought to baptism, and after his decease re-esta∣blish'd the free exercise of Idolatry; nor so content,

they set themselves in despight to do some op'n pro∣fanation against the other Sacrament. Coming therfore into the Church, where Mellitus the Bishop was ministring, they requir'd him in abuse and scorn to deliver to them unbaptiz'd the consecrated bread; and him refuseing, drove disgracefully out of their dominion. Who cross'd forthwith into Kent, where things were in the same plight, and thence into France, with Justus Bishop of Rochester. But Di∣vine vengeance deferr'd not long the punishment of men so impious; for Eadbald, vext with an evil Spi∣rit, fell oft'n into foul fits of distraction; and the Sons of Sebert, in a fight against the West-Saxons pe∣rish'd, with their whole Army. But Eadbald, within the year, by an extraordinary means became peni∣tent. For when Laurence the Archbishop and suc∣cessor of Austin was preparing to ship for France, after Justus and Mellitus, the story goes, if it be worth beleeving, that St. Peter, in whose Church he spent the night before in watching and praying, ap∣pear'd to him, and to make the Vision more sensible, gave him many stripes for offering to desert his flock; at sight whereof the King (to whom next morning he shew'd the marks of what he had suffer'd, by whom and for what cause) relenting and in great fear dissolv'd his incestuous marriage, and ap∣pli'd himself to the Christian Faith more sincerely then before, with all his people. But the Londoners addicted still to Paganism, would not be perswaded to receave again Mellitus thir Bishop, and to com∣pell them was not in his power. [An. Dom. 617] Thus much through all the South was troubl'd in Religion, as much were the North parts disquieted through Ambition. For Ethelfrid of Bernicia, as was touch't before, having thrown Edwin out of Deira, and join'd that King∣dome

to his own, not content to have bereav'd him of his right, whose known vertues and high parts gave cause of suspition to his Enemies, sends Messengers to demand him of Redwald King of East-Angles; under whose protection, after many years wandring obscurely through all the Iland, he had plac'd his safety. Redwald, though having promis'd all defence to Edwin as to his suppliant, yet tempted with continual and large offers of gold, and not con∣temning the puissance of Ethelfrid, yeilded at length, either to dispatch him, or to give him into thir hands: but earnestly exhorted by his Wife, not to betray * 1.19 the Faith and inviolable Law of Hospitality and re∣fuge giv'n, preferrs his first promise as the more Religious, nor only resuses to deliver him; but since War was thereupon denounc't, determins to be beforehand with the danger; and with a sudden Army rais'd, surprises Ethelfrid, little dreaming an invasion, and in a fight near to the East-side of the River Idle, on the Mercian border, now Nottingham∣shire, * 1.20 slaies him, dissipating easily those few Forces which he had got to march out over-hastily with him; who yet as a testimony of his Fortune, not his Valour to be blam'd, slew first with his own hands, Reiner the Kings Son. His two Sons Oswald, and Oswi, by Acca, Edwins Sister, escap'd into Scotland. By this Victory, Redwald became so far superior to the other Saxon Kings, that Beda reck'ns him the next after Ella and Ethelbert; who besides this Conquest of the North, had likewise all on the hitherside Hum∣ber at his obedience. He had formerly in Kent re∣ceav'd * 1.21 Baptism, but coming home and perswaded by his Wife, who still it seems, was his Chief Counsel∣ler to good or bad alike, relaps'd into his old Reli∣gion; yet not willing to forgoe his new, thought it

not the worst way, lest perhaps he might err in ei∣ther, for more assurance to keep them both; and in the same Temple erected one Altar to Christ, ano∣ther to his Idols. But Edwin, as with more delibe∣ration he undertook, and with more sincerity re∣tain'd the Christian profession, so also in power and extent of dominion far exceeded all before him; sub∣dueing all, saith Beda, English or British, eev'n to the Iles, then call'd Mevanian, Anglesey, and Man; setl'd in his Kingdome by Redwald, he sought in mariage Edelburga, whom others call Tate, the Daughter of Ethelbert. To whose Embassadors, Eadbald her Brother made answer, that to wed thir Daughter to a Pagan, was not the Christian Law. Edwin repli'd, that to her Religion he would be no hindrance, which with her whole Houshold she might freely exercise. And moreover, that if examin'd it were found the better, he would imbrace it. [An. Dom. 625] These ingenuous offers, op'ning so fair a way to the ad∣vancement of truth, are accepted, and Paulinus as a spiritual Guardian sent along with the Virgin. He being to that purpose made Bishop by Justus, omit∣ted no occasion to plant the Gospel in those parts, [An. Dom. 626] but with small success, till the next year, Cuichelm, at that time one of the two West-Saxon Kings, en∣vious of the greatness which he saw Edwin grow∣ing up to, sent privily Eumerus a hir'd Sword-man to assassin him; who under pretence of doing a message from his Master, with a poison'd Weapon, stabs at Edwin, conferring with him in his House, by the River Derwent in Yorkeshire, on an Easter-day; which Lilla one of the Kings Attendants, at the in∣stant perceaving, with a loyalty that stood not then to deliberate, abandon'd his whole body to the blow; which notwithstanding made passage through to the

Kings Person, with a wound not to be slighted. The murderer encompass'd now with Swords, and despe∣rate, fore-revenges his own fall with the Death of another, whom his Poinard reach'd home. Paulinus omitting no opportunity to win the King from mis∣beleef, obtain'd at length this promise from him; that if Christ, whom he so magnifi'd, would give him to recover of his wound, and victory of his Ene∣mies who had thus assaulted him, he would then be∣come Christian, in pledge whereof he gave his young Daughter Eanfled to be bred up in Religion; who with 12 others of his Family, on the day of Pente∣cost was baptiz'd. And by that time well recover'd of his wound; to punish the Authors of so foul a fact, he went with an Army against the West-Saxons: whom having quell'd by War, and of such as had conspir'd against him, put some to Death, others pardon'd, he return'd home victorious, and from that time worship'd no more his Idols, yet ventur'd not rashly into Baptism, but first took care to be in∣structed rightly, what he learnt, examining and still considering with himself and others, whom he held wisest; though Boniface the Pope, by large Letters of exhortation, both to him and his Queen, was not wanting to quicken his beleef. But while he still deferr'd, and his deferring might seem now to have past the maturity of wisedome to a faulty lingring, Paulinus by Revelation, as was beleev'd, coming to the knowledge of a secret, which befell him strangly in the time of his troubles, on a certain day went in boldly to him, and laying his right hand on the head of the King, ask'd him if he rememberd what that sign meant; the King trembling, and in a maze riseing up, strait fell at his Feet. Behold, saith Pau∣linus, raising him from the ground; God hath deli∣ver'd

you from your Enemies, and giv'n you the Kingdome, as you desir'd: perform now what long since you promis'd him, to receave his Doctrine which I now bring you, and the Faith, which if you ac∣cept, shall to your temporal felicity, add Eternal. The promise claim'd of him by Paulinus, how and wherefore made, though savouring much of Legend, is thus related. Redwald, as we heard before, dazl'd with the gold of Ethelfrid, or by his threatning over-aw'd, having promis'd to yeild up Edwin, one of his faithfull Companions, of which he had some few with him in the Court of Redwald, that never shrunk from his adversity, about the first howr of night comes in hast to his Chamber, and calling him forth for better secrecy, reveles to him his danger, offers him his aid to make escape; but that course not approv'd, and seeming dishonourable without more manifest cause to begin, distrust towards one who had so long bin his only refuge, the friend departs. Edwin left alone without the Palace Gate, full of sadness and perplext thoughts, discerns about the dead of night, a man neither by countnance nor by habit to him known, approaching towards him. Who after salutation, ask'd him why at this howr, when all others were at rest, he alone so sadly sat waking on a cold Stone? Edwin not a little mis∣doubting who he might be, ask'd him again, what his sitting within dores, or without, concern'd him to know? To whom he again, think not that who thou art, or why sitting heer, or what danger hangs over thee, is to me unknown: But what would you pro∣mise to that man, who ever would befriend you out of all these troubles, and perswade Redwald to the like? All that I am able answer'd Edwin. And he, what if the same man should promise to make you

greater then any English King hath bin before you? I should not doubt, quoth Edwin, to be answerably gratefull. And what if to all this he would inform you, said the other, in a way to happiness, beyond what any of your Ancestors hath known? would you hark'n to his Counsel? Edwin without stopping promis'd he would. And the other laying his right hand on Edwins head, when this sign, saith he, shall next befall yee, remember this time of night, and this discourse, to perform what thou hast promis'd, and with these words disappeering, left Edwin much reviv'd, but not less fill'd with wonder, who this unknown should be. When suddenly the friend who had bin gon all this while to list'n furder what was like to be decree'd of Edwin, comes back and joyfully bids him rise to his repose, for that the Kings mind, though for a while drawn aside, was now fully resolv'd not only not to betray him, but to defend him against all Enemies, as he had pro∣mis'd. This was said to be the cause why Edwin ad∣monish't by the Bishop of a sign which had befaln him so strangely, and as he thought so secretly, arose to him with that reverence and amazement, as to one sent from Heav'n, to claim that promise of him which he perceav'd well was due to a Divinepower, that had assisted him in his troubles. To Paulinus therefore he makes answer, that the Christian Beleef he himself ought by promise, and intended to re∣ceave; but would conferr first with his Cheif Peers and Counsellers, that if they likewise could be won, all at once might be baptiz'd. They therfore being ask'd in Counsel what thir opinion was concerning this new Doctrine, and well perceaving which way the King enclin'd, every one thereafter shap'd his reply. The Cheif-Preist speaking first, discover'd

an old grudge he had against his Gods, for advancing others in the Kings Favour above him thir Cheif Preist: another hiding his Court-compliance with a grave sentence, commended the choise of cer∣tain before uncertain, upon due examination; to like purpose answer'd all the rest of his Sages, none op'nly dissenting from what was likely to be the Kings Creed: wheras the preaching of Paulinus could work no such effect upon them, toiling till that time without success. Whereupon Edwin renoun∣cing Heathenism, became Christian: and the Pagan Preist, offring himself freely to demolish the Altars of his former Gods, made some amends for his teaching to adore them. [An. Dom. 627] With Edwin, his two Sons Osfrid and Eanfrid, born to him by Quenburga, Daughter, as saith Beda, of Kearle King of Mercia, in the time of his banishment, and with them most of the people, both Nobles and Commons, easily converted, were baptiz'd; he with his whole Fa∣mily at York, in a Church hastily built up of Wood, the multitude most part in Rivers. Northumberland thus christ'nd, Paulinus crossing Humber, converted also the Province of Lindsey, and Blecca the Go∣vernour of Lincoln, with his Houshold and most of that City; wherin he built a Church of Stone, cu∣riously wrought, but of small continuance; for the Roof in Bedas time, uncertain whether by neglect or Enemies, was down; the Walls only standing. Mean while in Mercia, Kearle a Kinsman of Wibba, saith Huntingdon, not a Son, having long withheld the Kingdome from Penda Wibba's Son, left it now at length to the fiftieth year of his Age: with whom Kinegils and Cuichelm, the West-Saxon Kings, [An. Dom. 629] two year after, having by that time it seems recover'd strength, since the Inrode made upon them by Ed∣win, * 1.22

fought at Cirencester, then made Truce. But Edwin seeking every way to propagate the Faith, which with so much deliberation he had receav'd, persuaded Eorpwald the Son of Redwald, King of East-Angles, to imbrace the same beleef; [An. Dom. 632] willingly or in aw, is not known,* 1.23 retaining under Edwin the name only of a King. But Eorpwald not long sur∣viv'd his conversion, slain in fight by Ricbert a Pa∣gan: * 1.24 wherby the people having lightly follow'd the Religion of thir King, as lightly fell back to thir old superstitions for above 3 years after: Edwin in the mean while, to his Faith adding vertue, by the due administration of justice wrought such peace over all his Territories, that from Sea to Sea, man or wo∣man might have travail'd in safety. His care also was of Fountains by the way side, to make them fit∣test for the use of Travellers. And not unmindful of regal State, whether in War or Peace, he had a Royal Banner carried before him. But having reign'd with much honour 17 years, he was at length by Kedwalla, or Cadwallon, King of the Britans, who with aid of the Mercian Penda, had rebell'd against him, slain in a Battel with his Son Osfrid, at a place call'd Hethseild, and his whole Army overthrown or disperst in the year 633. and the 47th of his Age, [An. Dom. 633] in the Eye of man worthy a more peacefull end. His Head brought to York, was there buried in the Church by him begun. Sad was this overthrow, both to Church and State of the Northumbrians: for Penda being a Heathen, and the British King, though in name a Christian, yet in deeds more bloody then the Pagan, nothing was omitted of barbarous cruelty in the slaughter of Sex or Age; Kedwalla threatning to root out the whole Nation, though then newly Christian. For the Britans, and, as Beda

saith, eev'n to his dayes, accounted Saxon Christiani∣ty no better then Paganism, and with them held as little Communion. From these calamities no re∣fuge being left but flight, Paulinus taking with him Ethilburga the Queen and her Children, aided by Bassus, one of Edwins Captains, made escape by Sea to Eadbald King of Kent: who receaving his Sister with all kindness, made Paulinus Bishop of Rochester, where he ended his days. After Edwin, the Kingdom of Northumberland became divided as before, each rightfull Heir seising his part; in Deira Osric, the Son of Elfric, Edwins Uncle, by profession a Christian, and baptiz'd by Paulinus; in Bernicia, Eanfrid, the Son of Ethelfrid; who all the time of Edwin, with his Brother Oswald, and many of the young Nobi∣lity, liv'd in Scotland exil'd, and had bin there taught and baptiz'd. No sooner had they gott'n each a Kingdom, but both turn'd recreant, sliding back in∣to their old Religion; and both were the same year slain; Osric by a sudden eruption of Kedwalla, whom he in a strong Town had unadvisedly beseig'd; Ean∣frid seeking peace, and inconsideratly with a few surrendring himself. Kedwalla now rang'd at will through both those Provinces, useing cruelly his Conquest; when Oswald the Brother of Eanfrid with a small but Christian Army, [An. Dom. 634] unexpectedly coming on, defeated and destroy'd both him and his huge Forces, which he boasted to be invincible, by a little River running into Tine, neer the antient Roman Wall then call'd Denisburn, the place afterwards Heav'n field, from the Cross reported miraculous for Cures, which Oswald there erected before the Bat∣tail, in tok'n of his Faith against the great number of his Enemies. Obtaining the Kingdom, he took care to instruct again the people in Christianity.

Sending therfore to the Scotish Elders, Beda so terms them, among whom he had receav'd Baptism, re∣quested of them som faithfull Teacher, who might again settle Religion in his Realm, which the late troubles had impar'd; they as readily hearkning to his request, send Aidan a Scotch Monk and Bishop, but of singular zeal and meekness, with others to assist him, whom at thir own desire he seated in Lin∣disfarne, as the Episcopal Seat, now Holy Iland: and being the Son of Ethelfrid, by the Sister of Edwin, as right Heir, others failing, easily reduc'd both Kingdoms of Northumberland as before into one; nor of Edwins Dominion lost any part, but enlarg'd it rather; over all the fowr British Nations, Angles, Britans, Picts and Scots, exerciseing regall Authority. Of his Devotion, Humility, and Almes-deeds, much is spok'n; that he disdain'd not to be the interpreter of Aidan, preaching in Scotch or bad English, to his Nobles and Houshold Servants; and had the poor continually serv'd at his Gate, after the promiscuous manner of those times: his meaning might be up∣right, but the manner more antient of privat or of Church contribution, is doubtless more Evangelical. About this time, the West-Saxons, [An. Dom. 635] antiently call'd Gevissi, by the preaching of Berinus,* 1.25 a Bishop, whom Pope Honorius had sent, were converted to the Faith with Kinegils thir King: him Oswald receav'd out of the Font, [An. Dom. 636] and his Daughter in mariage. The next year Cuichelm was baptiz'd in Dorchester, but liv'd not to the years end. The East-Angles also this year were reclaim'd to the Faith of Christ, which for som years past they had thrown off. But Sig∣bert the Brother of Eorpwald now succeeded in that Kingdom, prais'd for a most Christian and Learned Man: who while his Brother yet reign'd, living in

France an exile, for some displeasure conceav'd against him by Redwald his Father, lern'd there the Christian Faith; and reigning soon after, in the same instructed his people, by the preaching of Felix a Burgundian Bishop.

[An. Dom. 640] In the year 640. Eadbald deceasing, left to Ercom∣bert his Son by Emma the French Kings Daughter, the Kingdom of Kent; recorded the first of Eng∣lish Kings, who commanded through his limits the destroying of Idols; laudably, if all Idols without exception, and the first to have establisht Lent among us, under strict penalty, not worth remem∣bring, but only to inform us, that no Lent was ob∣serv'd heer till his time by compulsion:* 1.26 especially being noted by some to have fraudulently usurp'd upon his Elder Brother Ermenred, whose right was precedent to the Crown. [An. Dom. 642] Oswald having reign'd 8 years, worthy also as might seem of longer life, fell into the same fate with Edwin, and from the same hand, in a great Battel overcom and slain by Penda, at a place call'd Maserfeild, now Oswestre, in Shrop∣shire, miraculous, as saith Beda, after his Death.* 1.27 His Brother Oswi succeeded him; reigning, though in much trouble, 28 years; oppos'd either by Penda, * 1.28 or his own Son Alfred, or his Brothers Son Ethilwald. [An. Dom. 643] Next year Kinegils the West-Saxon dying, left his Son Kenwalk in his stead, though as yet unconverted. * 1.29 About this time Sigebert, King of East-Angles, ha∣ving lernt in France, ere his coming to Reign, the manner of thir Schools, with the assistance of some Teachers out of Kent, instituted a School heer after the same Discipline, thought to be the University of Cambridge then first founded: and at length weary of his Kingly Office, betook him to a Monastical life; commending the care of Government to his

Kinsman Egric, who had sustain'd with him part of that burden before. It happen'd some years after, that Penda made War on the East-Angles: they ex∣pecting a sharp encounter, besought Sigebert, whom they esteem'd an expert Leader, with his presence to confirm the Souldiery: and him refuseing carried by force out of the Monastery into the Camp; where acting the Monk rather then the Captain, with a single wand in his hand, he was slain with Egric, and his whole Army put to flight. Anna of the Royal Stock, as next in right, succeeded; and hath the praise of a vertuous and most Christian Prince. [An. Dom. 645] But Ken∣walk the West-Saxon having maried the Daughter of Penda,* 1.30 and divorc't her, was by him with more appearance of a just cause vanquisht in fight, and de∣priv'd of his Crown: whence retiring to Anna King of the East-Angles, after three years abode in his Court, he there became Christian, [An. Dom. 648] and afterwards regain'd his Kingdom. Oswi in the former years of his Reign, had sharer with him, Oswin Nephew of Edwin, who rul'd in Deira 7 years, commended much for his zeal in Religion, and for comliness of person, with other princely qualities, belov'd of all. Not∣withstanding which, dissentions growing between them, it came to Armes. Oswin seeing himself much exceeded in numbers, thought it more prudence, dismissing his Army, to reserve himself for some better occasion. But committing his person with one faithfull attendant to the Loyalty of Hunwald an Earl, his imagin'd friend, he was by him treache∣rously discoverd, and by command of Oswi slain. [An. Dom. 651] Af∣ter whom within 12 days,* 1.31 and for greif of him whose death he foretold, dy'd Bishop Aidan, famous for his Charity, meekness, and labour in the Gospel. The fact of Oswi was detestable to all; which ther∣fore

to expiate, a Monastery was built in the place where it was don, and Prayers there daily offerd up for the Souls of both Kings, the slain and the slayer. Kenwalk by this time reinstall'd in his King∣dom, kept it long, but with various Fortune;* 1.32 for Beda relates him oft-times afflicted by his Enemies with great losses: [An. Dom. 652] and in 652. by the Annals, fought a Battel (Civil War Ethelwerd calls it) at Bradanford by the River Afene; against whom, and for what cause, or who had the Victory, they write not. Cam∣den names the place Bradford in Wiltshire, by the River Avon, and Cuthred his neer Kinsman, against whom he fought, but cites no Autority; certain it is, that Kenwalk fowr years before had giv'n large possessions to his Nephew Cuthred, the more unlikely therefore now to have rebell'd. [An. Dom. 653] The next year Peada, whom his Father Penda, though a Heathen, had for his Princely Vertues made Prince of Mid∣dle-Angles, belonging to the Mercians, was with that people converted to the Faith. For coming to Oswi with request to have in mariage Alf••eda his Daughter, he was deni'd her but on condition, that he with all his people should receave Christianity. Heering therefore not unwillingly what was preach't to him of Resurrection and Eternal life, much per∣suaded also by Alfrid the Kings Son, who had his Sister Kyniburg to Wife, he easily assented, for the truths sake only as he profess'd, whether he obtain'd the Virgin or no, and was baptiz'd with all his fol∣lowers. Returning, he took with him fowr Presby∣ters to teach the people of his Province; who by thir daily preaching won many. Neither did Penda, though himself no Beleever, prohibit any in his King∣dome to heer to beleeve the Gospel, but rather ha∣ted and despis'd those, who professing to beleeve,

atested not thir Faith by good works; condemning them for miserable and justly to be despis'd, who obey not that God in whom they choose to beleeve. How well might Penda this Heathen rise up in judg∣ment against many pretending Christians, both of his own and these daies! yet being a man bred up to War (as no less were others then reigning, and oft-times one against another, though both Christians) he warr'd on Anna, [An. Dom. 654] King of the East-Angles,* 1.33 per∣haps without cause, for Anna was esteem'd a just man, and at length slew him. About this time the East-Saxons, who as above hath bin said, had ex∣pell'd thir Bishop Mellitus, and renounc'd the Faith, were by the means of Oswi thus reconverted. Sige∣bert surnam'd the small, being the Son of Seward, without other memory of his Reign, left his Son King of that Province, after him Sigebert the Se∣cond, who coming oft'n to visit Oswi his great friend, was by him at several times fervently disuaded from Idolatry, and convinc't at length to forsake it, was there baptiz'd; on his return home taking with him Kedda a laborious Preacher, afterwards made Bi∣shop; by whose teaching with some help of others, the people were again recoverd from misbeleef. But Sigebert some years after, though standing fast in Religion, was by the Conspiracy of two Brethren in place neer about him, wickedly murder'd; who being ask'd what mov'd them to do a deed so hai∣nous, gave no other then this barbarous answer; that they were angry with him for being so gentle to his Enemies, as to forgive them thir injuries when∣ever they besought him. Yet his Death seems to have happ'nd not without some cause by him giv'n of Divine displeasure. For one of those Earls who slew him, living in unlawfull wedlock, and therfore

excommunicated so severely by the Bishop, that no man might presume to enter into his House, much less to sit at meat with him, the King not regarding this Church censure, went to feast with him at his invitation. Whom the Bishop meeting in his re∣turn, though penitent for what he had don, and faln at his feet, touch'd with the rod in his hand, and angerly thus foretold: because thou hast neglected to abstain from the House of that Excommunicate, in that House thou shalt die; and so it fell out, perhaps from that prediction, God bearing witness to his Mi∣nister in the power of Church Discipline, spiritually executed, not juridically on the contemner therof. [An. Dom. 655] This year 655. prov'd fortunate to Oswi, and fatal to Penda, for Oswi by the continual inrodes of Penda, having long endur'd much devastation, to the endan∣gering once by assault and fire Bebbanburg,* 1.34 his strong∣est City, now Bamborrow Castle, unable to resist him, with many rich presents offerd to buy his Peace. Which not accepted by the Pagan, who intended no∣thing but destruction to that King, though more then once in affinity with him, turning guifts into vows, he implores Divine Assistance, devoting, if he were deliverd from his Enemy, a Child of one year old, his Daughter to be a Nun, and 12 portions of land wheron to build Monasteries. His vows, as may be thought, found better success then his profferd guifts; for heerupon with his Son Alfrid, gathering a small power, he encounterd and discomfited the Mercians,* 1.35 30 times exceeding his in number, and led on by expert Captains: at a place call'd Loyden, now Leeds in Yorkeshire. Besides this Ethelwald, the Son of Oswald, who rul'd in Deira, took part with the Mercians, but in the fight withdrew his Forces, and in a safe place expected the event: with which un∣seasonable

retreat, the Mercians perhaps terrifi'd and misdoubting more danger, fled; thir Commanders, with Penda himself, most being slain, among whom Edilhere the Brother of Anna, who rul'd after him the East-Angles, and was the Author of this War; many more flying were drown'd in the River, which Beda calls Winwed, then swoln above her Banks.* 1.36 The Death of Penda, who had bin the Death of so many good Kings, made generall rejoicing, as the Song wit∣ness'd. At the River Winwed, Anna was aveng'd. To Edelhere succeeded Ethelwald his Brother, in the East-Angles; to Sigebert in the East-Saxons, Suidhelm the Son of Sexbald, saith Bede, the Brother of Sige∣bert, * 1.37 saith Malmsbury; he was baptiz'd by Kedda, then residing in the East-Angles, and by Ethelwald the King, receav'd out of the Font. But Oswi in the strength of his late Victory, [An. Dom. 658] within three years after subdu'd all Mercia,* 1.38 and of the Pictish Nation greatest part, at which time he gave to Peada his Son in Law the Kingdome of South-Mercia, divided from the Northern by Trent. [An. Dom. 659] But Peada the Spring follow∣ing, as was said, * 1.39by the Treason of his Wife the Daughter of Oswi, married by him for a special Christian, on the Feast of Faster, not protected by the holy time, was slain. The Mercian Nobles, Im∣min, Eaba, and Eadbert, throwing off the Govern∣ment of Oswi, set up Wulser the other Son of Penda to be thir King, whom till then they had kept hid, and with him adherd to the Christian Faith. Ken∣walk the West-Saxon, now settl'd at home, and desi∣rous to enlarge his Dominion, prepares against the Britans, joins Battel with them at Pen in Somerset-shire, and over coming persues them to Pedridan. Another fight he had with them before, at a place call'd Witgeornesburg, barely mention'd by the Monk

of Malmsbury. [An. Dom. 661] Nor was it long ere he fell at variance with Wulser the Son of Penda,* 1.40 his old Enemy, scarce yet warm in his Throne, fought with him at Possen∣tesburg, on the Easter Holy-days, and as Ethelwerd saith, took him Prisner; but the Saxon Annals, quite otherwise, that Wulfer winning the field, wasted the West-Saxon Country as far as Eskesdun; nor staying there, took and wasted the Ile of Wight, but causing the Inhabitants to be baptiz'd, till then unbeleevers, gave the Iland to Ethelwald King of South-Saxons, whom he had receav'd out of the Font. [An. Dom. 664] The year 664. a Synod of Scotish and English Bishops,* 1.41 in the presence of Oswi and Alfred his Son, was held at a Monastery in those parts, to debate on what Day Easter should be kept; a controverfie which long before had disturb'd the Greek and Latin Churches: wherin the Scots not agreeing with the way of Rome, nor yeilding to the disputants on that side, to whom the King most enclin'd, such as were Bishops heer, resign'd, and return'd home with thir Disciples. Another clerical question was there also much con∣troverted, not so superstitious in my opinion as ridi∣culous, about the right shaving of crowns. The same year was seen an Eclips of the Sun in May, fol∣lowed by a sore pestilence beginning in the South, but spreading to the North, and over all Ireland with great mortality.* 1.42 In which time the East-Saxons after Swithelms Decease, being govern'd by Siger the Son of Sigebert the small, and Sebbi of Seward, though both subject to the Mercians. Siger and his people unstedie of Faith, supposing that this Plague was come upon them for renouncing thir old Reli∣gion, fell off the second time to Infidelity. Which the Mercian King Wulfer understanding, sent Jaru∣mannus a Faithfull Bishop, who with other his fel∣low

Labourers, by sound Doctrin and gentle dealing, soon recur'd them of thir second relaps. In Kent, Ercombert expiring, was succeeded by his Son Ec∣bert. [An. Dom. 668] In whose fowrth year, by means of Theodore, * 1.43 a learned Greekish Monk of Tarsus, whom Pope Vi∣talian had ordain'd Archbishop of Canterbury, the Greek and Latin Tongue, with other liberal Arts, Arithmetic, Music, Astronomie, and the like; began first to flourish among the Saxons; as did also the whole Land, under potent and religious Kings, more then ever before, as Bede affirms, till his own days. [An. Dom. 670] Two years after, in Northumberland dy'd Oswi, much * 1.44 addicted to Romish Rites, and resolv'd, had his Di∣sease releas'd him, to have ended his days at Rome: Ecfrid the eldest of his Sons begot in Wedlock,* 1.45 suc∣ceeded him. [An. Dom. 673] After other three years, Ecbert in Kent deceasing, left nothing memorable behind him, but the general suspition to have slain or conniv'd at the slaughter of his Uncles two Sons, Elbert, and Egel∣bright. In recompence wherof,* 1.46 he gave to the Mo∣ther of them part of Tanet, wherein to build an Ab∣bey; the Kingdom fell to his Brother Lothair. And much about this time, by best account it should be, however plac'd in Beda, that Ecfrid of Northum∣berland, * 1.47 having War with the Mercian Wulfer, won from him Lindsey, and the Country thereabout. Sebbi having reign'd over the East-Saxons 30 years, not long before his Death, though long before de∣sireing, took on him the Habit of a Monk; and drew his Wife at length, though unwilling, to the same Devotion. Kenwalk also dying, left the Go∣vernment to Sexburga his Wife, who out-liv'd him in it but one year, driv'n out, saith Mat. West. by the Nobles, disdaining Female Government. [An. Dom. 674] After whom several petty Kings, as Beda calls them, for ten

years space divided the West-Saxons;* 1.48 others name two, Escwin the Nephew of Kinigils, and Kentwin the Son, not petty by thir deeds: for Escwin fought a Battell with Wulfer, at Bedanhafde, and about year a af∣both deceas'd; [An. Dom. 676] but Wulfer not without a stain left behind him, of selling the Bishoprick of London, to Wini the first Simonist we read of in this story; Ken∣walk had before expell'd him from his Chair at Win∣chester; Ethelred the Brother of Wulfer obtaining next the Kingdom of Mercia, not only recoverd Lindsey, and what besides in those parts Wulfer had lost to Ecfrid some years before, but found himself strong enough to extend his Armes another way, as far as Kent, wasting that Country without respect to Church or Monastery, much also endamaging the City of Rochester:* 1.49 Notwithstanding what resistance Lothair could make against him. [An. Dom. 678] In August 678. was seen a Morning Comet for 3 Months following, in manner of a fiery Pillar. And the South-Saxons about this time were converted to the Christian Faith, upon this occasion. Wilsrid Bishop of the Nor∣thumbrians entring into contention with Ecfrid the King, was by him depriv'd of his Bishoprick, and long wandring up and down as far as Rome, [An. Dom. 679] return'd at length into England, but not dareing to approach the North, whence he was banish'd, bethought him where he might to best purpose elsewhere exercise his Ministery. The South of all other Saxons remain'd yet Heathen; but Edilwalk thir King not long be∣fore had bin baptiz'd in Mercia, persuaded by Wulfer, and by him, as hath bin said, receav'd out of the Font. For which relations sake he had the Ile of Wight, and a Province of the Meannari adjoining,* 1.50 giv'n him on the Continent about Meanesborow in Hantshir, which Wulfer had a little before gott'n from Kenwalk. The∣ther

Wilfrid takes his journey, and with the help of other Spiritual Labourers about him, in short time planted there the Gospel. It had not rain'd, as is said, of three years before in that Country, whence many of the people daily perish'd by Famin; till on the first day of thir public Baptism, soft and plenti∣full showers descending, restor'd all abundance to the Summer following. [An. Dom. 681] Two years after this,* 1.51 Kent∣win the other West-Saxon King above-nam'd, chac'd the Welch-Britans, as is Chronicl'd without circum∣stance, to the very Sea shoar. [An. Dom. 683] But in the year,* 1.52 by Beda's reck'ning, 683, Kedwalla a West-Saxon of the Royal Line (whom the Welch will have to be Cad∣wallader, last King of the Britans) thrown out by faction, return'd from banishment, and invaded both Kentwin, if then living, or whoever else had divided the succession of Kenwalk,* 1.53 slaying in fight Edelwalk the South-Saxon, who oppos'd him in their aid; but soon after was repuls'd by two of his Captains, Ber∣tune, and Andune, who for a while held the province in thir power. But Kedwalla gathering new force, * 1.54 with the slaughter of Ber••une, [An. Dom. 684] and also of Edric the successor of Edelwalk, won the Kingdome. But re∣duc'd the people to heavy thraldome.* 1.55 Then ad∣dressing to Conquer the Ile of Wight, till that time Pagan, saith Beda (others otherwise, as above hath bin related) made a vow, though himself yet un∣baptiz'd, to devote the fowrth part of that Iland, and the spoils therof, to holy uses. Conquest obtain'd, paying his vow as then was the beleef, he gave hi•• fowrth to Bishop Wilsrid, by chance there present; and he to Bertwin a Priest, his Sisters Son, with com∣mission to baptise all the vanquisht, who meant to save thir lives. But the two young Sons of Arwald, King of that Iland, met with much more hostility;

for they at the Enemies approach flying out of the Ile, and betray'd where they were hid not far from thence, were led to Kedwalla, who lay then under Cure of some wounds receav'd, and by his appoint∣ment, after instruction and Baptism first giv'n them, harshly put to death, which the youths are said above thir Age to have Christianly sufferd. In Kent, Lothair dy'd this year of his wounds receav'd in fight against the South-Saxons, led on by Edric, who descending from Ermenred, it seems challeng'd the Crown; and wore it, though not commendably, one year and a half: [An. Dom. 685] but coming to a violent Death, left the land * 1.56 expos'd a prey either to home-bred usurpers, or neighbouring invaders. Among whom Kedwalla, taking advantage from thir civil distempers, and marching easily through the South-Saxons, whom he had subdu'd, sorely harrass'd the Country, untouch'd of a long time by any hostile incursion. But the Kentish men, all parties uniteing against a common Enemy, with joint power so oppos'd him, that he was constrain'd to retire back; his Brother Mollo in the flight with 12 men of his Company, seeking * 1.57 shelter in a House, was beset and therin burnt by the persuers: Kedwalla much troubl'd at so great a loss, recalling and soon rallying his disorderd Forces, re∣turn'd fiercely upon the chaseing Enemy; [An. Dom. 686] nor could be got out of the Province, till both by fire and Sword, he had aveng'd the Death of his Brother. [An. Dom. 687] At length Victred the Son of Ecbert, attaining the Kingdome, both settl'd at home all things in peace, and secur'd his Borders from all outward Hostility. While thus Kedwalla disquieted both West and East, after his winning the Crown, Ecfrid the Northum∣brian, * 1.58 and Ethelred the Mercian, fought a sore Battel by the River Trent; wherin Elswin Brother to Ec∣frid,

a youth of 18 years, much belov'd, was slain; and the accident likely to occasion much more shed∣ing of blood, peace was happily made by the grave exhortation of Archbishop Theodore, a pecuniary fine only paid to Ecfrid, as some satisfaction for the loss of his Brothers life. Another adversity befell Ecfrid in his Family, by means of Ethildrith his Wife, King Anna's Daughter, who having tak'n him for hir Husband, and professing to love him above all other men, persisted twelve years in the obstinat re∣fusal of his bed, therby thinking to live the purer life. So perversly then was chastity instructed against the Apostles rule. At length obtaining of him with much importunity her departure, she veild her self a Nun, then made Abbess of Ely, dy'd 7 years after the pestilence; and might with better warrant have kept faithfully her undertak'n Wed∣lock, though now canoniz'd St. Audrey of Ely. In the mean while Ecfrid had sent Bertus with a power to subdue Ireland, a harmless Nation, saith Beda, and ever friendly to the English; in both which they seem to have left a posterity much unlike them at this day: miserably wasted, without regard had to pla∣ces hallow'd or profane, they betook them partly to thir Weapons, partly to implore divine aid; and, as was thought, obtain'd it in thir full avengement upon Ecfrid. For he the next year, against the mind and persuasion of his sagest friends, and especially of Cudbert a famous Bishop of that Age, marching un∣advisedly against the Picts, who long before had bin subject to Northumberland, was by them feigning flight, drawn unawares into narrow streights over∣topt with Hills, and cut off with most of his Army. From which time, saith Bede, military valour began among the Saxons to decay, nor only the Picts till

then peaceable, but some part of the Britans also re∣cover'd by Armes thir liberty for many years after. Yet Aldfrid elder, but base Brother to Ecfrid, a man said to be learned in the Scriptures, recall'd from Ire∣land, to which place in his Brothers Reign he had re∣tir'd, and now succeeding, upheld with much honour, though in narrower bounds, the residue of his King∣dome. Kedwalla having now with great distur∣bance of his Neighbours reign'd over the West-Sax∣ons two years, besides what time he spent in gaining it, wearied perhaps with his own turbulence, went to Rome, desirous there to receave Baptism, which till then his worldly affairs had deferr'd, and according∣ly, on Easter Day, 689. he was baptiz'd by Sergius [An. Dom. 689] the Pope, and his name chang'd to Peter. All which notwithstanding, surpris'd with a Disease, he out-liv'd not the Ceremony so far sought, much above the space of 5 weeks, in the Thirtieth year of his Age, and in the Church of St. Peter was there buri∣ed, with a large Epitaph upon his Tomb. Him suc∣ceeded Ina of the Royal Family, and from the time of his coming in, for many years oppress'd the Land with like greevances, as Kedwalla had done before him, insomuch that in those times there was no Bi∣shop among them. His first expedition was into Kent, to demand satisfaction for the burning of Mollo: Victred loth to hazard all for the rash act of a few, deliver'd up 30 of those that could be found accesso∣ry, or as others say, pacifi'd Ina with a great sum of money. Mean while, at the incitement of Ecbert, a * 1.59 devout Monk, Wilbrod a Priest eminent for learn∣ing, past over Sea, having 12 others in Company, with intent to preach the Gospel in Germany. And coming to ••epin Cheif Regent of the Franks, who [An. Dom. 694] a little before had conquer'd the hither Frisia, by his

countnance and protection, promise also of many benefits to them who should beleeve, they found the work of conversion much the easier, and Wilbrod the first Bishoprick in that Nation. But two Priests, each of them Hewald by name, and for distinction sur∣nam'd from the colour of thir Hair, the black and the white, by his example, piously affected to the Souls of thir Country-men the old Saxons, at thir coming thether to convert them met with much worse entertainment. For in the House of a Farmer who had promis'd to convey them, as they desir'd, to the Governour of that Country, discoverd by thir daily Ceremonies to be Christian Priests, and the cause of thir coming suspected, they were by him and his Heathen Neighbours cruelly butcherd; yet not unaveng'd, for the Governour enrag'd at such violence offerd to his Strangers, sending Armed Men, slew all those Inhabitants, and burnt thir Vil∣lage. [An. Dom. 697] After three years in Mercia, Ostrid the Queen, Wife to Ethelred, was kill'd by her own No∣bles, as Beda's Epitomy records; Florence calls them Southimbrians, negligently omitting the cause of so strange a fact. [An. Dom. 698] And the year following, Bertred a Northumbrian General was slain by the Picts. [An. Dom. 704] Ethelred 7 years after the violent Death of his Queen, put on the Monk, and resign'd his Kingdome to Kenred the Son of Wulfer his Brother. [An. Dom. 705] The next year, Ald∣frid in Northumberland dy'd, leaving Osred a Child of 8 years to succeed him. [An. Dom. 709] Fowr years after which, Kenred having a while with praise govern'd the Mer∣cian Kingdome, went to Rome in the time of Pope Constantine, and shorn a Monk spent there the resi∣due of his daies. Kelred succeeded him, the Son of Ethelred, who had reign'd the next before. With Kenred went Offa the Son of Siger, King of East-Saxons,

and betook him to the same habit, leaving his Wife and Native Country; a comely Person in the prime of his youth, much desir'd of the people; and such his vertue by report, as might have other∣wise bin worthy to have reign'd. [An. Dom. 710] Ina the West-Saxon * 1.60 one year after fought a Battell, at first doubt∣full, at last successfull, against Gerent King of Wales. [An. Dom. 711] The next year Bertfrid, another Northumbrian Cap∣tain, fought with the Picts, and slaughterd them, saith * 1.61 Huntingdon, to the full avengment of Ecfrids Death. [An. Dom. 715] The fowrth year after, Ina had another doubtfull and cruell Battel at Wodnesburg in Wiltshire,* 1.62 with Kelred the Mercian, who dy'd the year following a lamentable Death: for as he sat one day feasting with his Nobles, [An. Dom. 716] suddenly possess'd with an evill Spirit, he expir'd in despair, as Boniface Archbishop of Ments, an English man, who taxes him for a de∣filer of Nuns, writes by way of caution to Ethel∣bald, his next of Kin, who succeeded him. Osred also the young Northumbrian King, slain by his Kindred in the 11. of his Reign, for his vitious life and incest committed with Nuns; was by Kenred fucceeded and aveng'd, he reigning two years left Osric in his room. [An. Dom. 718] In whose 7th year, if Beda cal∣culate right, Victred King of Kent deceas'd, having reign'd 34 years, and some part of them with Sueb∣hard, as Beda testifies, he left behind him three Sons, Ethelbert, Eadbert, and Alric his Heirs. [An. Dom. 725] Three years * 1.63 after which, [An. Dom. 728] appear'd two Comets about the Sun, ter∣rible to behold, the one before him in the Morning, the other after him in the Evening, for the space of two weeks in January, bending thir blaze toward the North, at which time the Saracens furiously in∣vaded France, but were expell'd soon after with great overthrow. The same year in Northumber∣land,

Osric dying or slain,* 1.64 adopted Kelwulf the Bro∣ther of Kenred his Successor, to whom Beda dedi∣cates his story; but writes this only of him, that the beginning, and the process of his Reign met with many adverse commotions, wherof the event was then doubtfully expected. Mean while Ina7 years before, having slain Kenwuls, to whom Florent gives the addition of Clito, giv'n usually to none but of the blood Royal, and the 4th. year after overthrown and slain Albright another Clito, driv'n from Taun∣ton to the South-Saxons for aid, vanquish't also the East-Angles in more then one Battel, as Malmsbury writes, but not the year, whether to expiate so much blood, or infected with the contagious humour of those times, Malmsbury saith, at the persuasion of Ethelburga his Wife, went to Rome, and there ended his dayes; yet this praise left behind him, to have made good Laws, the first of Saxon that remain ex∣tant to this day, and to his Kinsman Edelard, be∣queath'd the Crown; No less then the whole Mo∣narchy of England and Wales. For Ina, if we be∣leeve a digression in the Laws of Edward Confessor, was the first King Crown'd of English and British, since the Saxons entrance; of the British by means of his second Wife, some way related to Cadwalla∣der last King of Wales, which I had not noted being unlikely, but for the place where I found it. After * 1.65 Ina, by a surer Author, [An. Dom. 731] Ethelbald King of Mercia commanded all the Provinces on this side Humber, with thir Kings: the Picts were in league with the English, the Scots peaceable within thir bounds, and the Britans part were in thir own Goverment, part subject to the English. In which peacefull state of the land, many in Northumberland, both Nobles and Commons, laying aside the exercise of Armes, be∣took

them to the Cloister: and not content so to do at home, many in the days of Ina, Clerks and Laics, Men and Woemen, hasting to Rome in Herds, thought themselves no where sure of Eternal Life, till they were Cloisterd there. Thus representing the state of things in this Iland, Beda surceas'd to write. Out of whom cheifly hath bin gatherd, since the Saxons arrival, such as hath bin deliverd, a scat∣terd story pickt out heer and there, with some trou∣ble and tedious work from among his many Le∣gends of Visions and Miracles; toward the latter end so bare of civill matters, as what can be thence col∣lected may seem a Calendar rather then a History, tak'n up for the most part with succession of Kings, and computation of years, yet those hard to be re∣concil'd with the Saxon Annals. Thir actions we read of, were most commonly Wars, but for what cause wag'd, or by what Councells carried on, no care was had to let us know: wherby thir strength and violence we understand, of thir wisedom, rea∣son, or justice, little or nothing, the rest superstition and monastical affectation; Kings one after another leaving thir Kingly Charge, to run thir heads fondly into a Monks Cowle: which leaves us uncertain, whether Beda was wanting to his matter, or his mat∣ter to him. Yet from hence to the Danish Invasion it will be worse with us, destitute of Beda. Left only to obscure and blockish Chronicles; whom Malmsbury, and Huntingdon, (for neither they then we had better Authors of those times) ambitious to adorn the History, make no scruple oft-times, I doubt to interline with conjectures and surmises of thir own: them rather then imitate, I shall choose to represent the truth naked, though as lean as a plain Journal. Yet William of Malmsbury must be ac∣knowledg'd,

both for stile and judgment, to be far the best Writer of them all: but what labour is to be endur'd, turning over Volumes of Rubbish in the rest, Florence of Worster, Huntingdon, Simeon of Durham, Hoveden, Mathew of Westminster, and many others of obscurer note, with all thir monachisms, is a penance to think. Yet these are our only Regi∣sters, transcribers one after another for the most part, and somtimes worthy enough for the things they re∣gister. This travail rather then not know at once what may be known of our antient story, sifted from Fa∣bles and impertinences, I voluntarily undergo; and to save others, if they please the like unpleasing la∣bour; except those who take pleasure to be all thir life time, rakeing in the Foundations of old Abbies and Cathedrals; but to my task now as it befalls. [An. Dom. 733] In the year 733. on the 18th. Kalends of Septem∣ber, * 1.66 was an Eclipse of the Sun about the third howr of day, obscureing almost his whole Orb as with a black sheild. Ethelbald of Mercia, beseig'd and took the Castle or Town of Somerton: [An. Dom. 735] and two years after, Beda our Historian dy'd, some say the year before. [An. Dom. 738] Kelwulf in Northumberland three years after became Monk in Lindisfarne,* 1.67 yet none of the severest, for he brought those Monks from milk and water, to Wine and Ale; in which doctrin no doubt but they were soon docil, and well might, for Kelwulf brought with him good provision, great treasure and revenues of land, recited by Simeon, yet all under pretense of following (I use the Au∣thors words) poor Christ, by voluntary poverty: no marvel then if such applause were giv'n by Monkish Writers to Kings turning Monks, and much cunning perhaps us'd to allure them. To Eadbert his Uncle, he left the Kingdom, whose brother Ecbert,

Archbishop of York built a Library there. [An. Dom. 740] But two years after, while Eadbert was busied in War against the Picts, Ethelbald the Mercian, by foul fraud, assaulted part of Northumberland in his absence, as the supplement of Beda's Epitomy records. In the West-Saxons, Edelard who succeeded Ina, having bin much molested in the beginning of his Reign, with the Rebellion of Oswald his Kinsman, who contended with him for the right of succession, over∣coming at last those troubles, dy'd in Peace 741, [An. Dom. 741] leaving Cuthred one of the same linage to succeed * 1.68 him: who at first had much War with Ethelbald the Mercian, and various success, but joyning with him in League two years after, [An. Dom. 743] made War on the Welch:* 1.69 Huntingdon doubts not to give them a great Victo∣ry. [An. Dom. 744] And Simeon reports, another Battel fought be∣tween Britans and Picts the year ensueing.* 1.70 Now was the Kingdome of East-Saxons drawing to a Pe∣riod, for Sigeard and Senfred the Sons of Sebbi ha∣ving reign'd a while, and after them young Offa, who soon quitted his Kingdome to go to Rome with Kenred, as hath been said, the Goverment was con∣ferr'd * 1.71 on Selred Son of Sigebert the good, who ha∣ving rul'd 38 years, came to a violent death; [An. Dom. 746] how or wherefore, is not set down. After whom Swithred was the last King, driv'n out by Ecbert the West-Saxon: but London, with the Countries adjacent, obey'd the Mercians till they also were dissolv'd. Cuthred had now reign'd about nine years, [An. Dom. 748] when Kuiric his Son a valiant young Prince, was in a mili∣tary tumult slain by his own Souldiers.* 1.72 The same year Eadbert dying in Kent, his Brother Edilbert reign'd in his stead. [An. Dom. 750] But after two years, the other Eadbert in Northumberland, whose War with the Picts hath bin above-mention'd, made now such Progress

there, as to subdue Kyle, so saith the Auctarie of Bede, and other Countries thereabout, to his dominion; While Cuthred the West-Saxon had a fight with Ethel∣hun, one of his Nobles, a stout Warrier, envi'd by him in some matter of the Common-wealth, as far as by the Latin of Ethelward can be understood (others * 1.73 interpret it Sedition) and with much ado over∣coming, [An. Dom. 752] took Ethelhun for his valour into favour,* 1.74 by whom faithfully serv'd in the twelf or thirteenth of his Reign, he encounter'd in a set Battell with Ethelbald the Mercian at Beorford, now Burford in Oxfordshire; [An. Dom. 753] one year after against the Welch, which was the last but one of his life. Huntingdon, as his manner is to comment upon the annal Text, makes a terrible description of that fight between Cuthred and Ethelbald, and the Prowess of Ethelhun, at Beor∣ford, but so affectedly, and therfore suspiciously, that I hold it not worth rehersal; and both in that and the latter conflict, gives Victory to Cuthred;* 1.75 af∣ter whom Sigebert, uncertain by what right, [An. Dom. 754] his Kins∣man, saith Florent, step'd into the Throne,* 1.76 whom hated for his cruelty and other evil doings, Kim∣wulf joining with most of the Nobility, dispossess'd of all but Hamshir, that Province he lost also with∣in a year, [An. Dom. 755] together with the love of all those who till then remain'd his adherents, by slaying Cum∣bran, one of his Cheif Captains, who for a long time had faithfully serv'd, and now disuaded him from incensing the people by such Tyrannical practi∣ces. * 1.77 Thence flying for safety into Andreds Wood, forsak'n of all, he was at length slain by the Swine-heard of Cumbran in revenge of his Maister, and Kinwulf who had undoubted right to the Crown, joyfully saluted King. [An. Dom. 756] The next year Eadbert the Northumbrian joining forces with Ʋnust King of the

Picts, as Simeon writes, beseig'd and took by sur∣render * 1.78 the City Alcluith, now Dunbritton in Lennox, from the Britans of Cumberland; and ten days after, the whole Army perishd about Niwanbirig, but to tell us how, he forgetts. In Mercia, Ethelbald was * 1.79 slain, at a place call'd Secandune, [An. Dom. 757] now Seckinton in Warwickshire, the year following, in a bloody fight * 1.80 against Cuthred, as Huntingdon surmises, but Cuthred was dead two years before; others write him mur∣der'd in the night by his own Guard, and the Trea∣son, as some say, of Beornred, who succeeded him; but ere many Months, was defeated and slain by Offa. Yet Ethelbald seems not without cause, after a long and prosperous Reign, to have fall'n by a vio∣lent Death; not shameing on the vain confidence of his many Alms, to commit uncleaness with consecra∣ted Nuns, besides Laic Adulteries, as the Arch-Bishop of Ments in a letter taxes him and his Prede∣cessor, and that by his example most of his Peers did the like; which adulterous doings he foretold him were likely to produce a slothfull off-spring, good for nothing but to be the ruin of that Kingdome, as it fell out not long after. [An. Dom. 758] The next year Osmund, according to Florence, ruleing the South-Saxons, and Swithred the East, Eadbert in Northumberland, fol∣lowing the steps of his Predecessor, got him into a Monks Hood; the more to be wonder'd, that ha∣ving * 1.81 reign'd worthily 21 years, with the love and high estimation of all, both at home and abroad, able still to govern, and much entreated by the Kings his Neighbours, not to lay down his charge; with offer on that condition to yeild up to him part of thir own Dominion, he could not be mov'd from his re∣solution, but relinquish'd his Royal Office to Oswulf his Son; [An. Dom. 759] who at the years end, though without just

cause, was slain by his own Servants. And the year after dy'd Ethelbert, Son of Victred, the second of that name in Kent. [An. Dom. 762] After Oswulf, Ethelwald, other∣wise * 1.82 call'd Mollo, was set up King; who in his third year had a great Battel at Eldune, by Melros, slew Os∣win a great Lord, rebelling, and gain'd the Victory. [An. Dom. 765] But the third year after, fell by the treachery of Al∣cred, * 1.83 who assum'd his place. [An. Dom. 769] The fowrth year af∣ter which, Cataracta an antient and fair City in Yorkeshire, was burnt by Arnred a certain Tyrant, who the same year came to like end. [An. Dom. 774] And after five * 1.84 years more, Alfred the King depos'd and forsak'n of all his people, fled with a few, first to Bebba, a strong City of those parts, thence to Kinot King of the Picts. Ethelred the Son of Mollo, was crown'd in his stead. Mean while Offa the Mercian, growing powerfull, had subdu'd a Neighbouring people by Simeon, call'd Hestings; and fought successfully this year with Alric King of Kent, at a place call'd Occan∣ford: the Annals also speak of wondrous Serpents then seen in Sussex. Nor had Kinwulf the West-Saxon giv'n small proof of his valour in several Battels against the Welch heretofore; [An. Dom. 775] but this year 775. meeting with Offa, at a place call'd Besington, * 1.85 was put to the worse, and Offa won the Town for which they contended. [An. Dom. 778] In Northumberland, Ethel∣red having caus'd three of his Nobles,* 1.86Aldwulf, Kin∣wulf, and Ecca, treacherously to be slain by two other Peers, was himself the next year driv'n into banishment, Elfwald the Son of Oswulf succeeding in his place, yet not without civil broils; [An. Dom. 780] for in his se∣cond * 1.87 year Osbald and Ethelheard, two Noblemen, raising Forces against him, routed Bearne his Gene∣ral, and persueing, burnt him at a place call'd Sele∣tune. I am sensible how wearisom it may likely be to

read of so many bare and reasonless Actions, so ma∣ny names of Kings one after another, acting little more then mute persons in a Scene: what would it be to have inserted the long Bead-roll of Archbi∣shops, Bishops, Abbots, Abbesses, and thir doeings, neither to Religion profitable, nor to morality, swelling my Authors each to a voluminous body, by me studiously omitted; and left as their pro∣priety, who have a mind to write the Ecclesiastical matters of those Ages; neither do I care to wrin∣cle the smoothness of History with rugged names of places unknown, better harp'd at in Camden, and other Chorographers. [An. Dom. 786] Six years therfore pass'd * 1.88 over in silence, as wholely of such Argument, bring us to relate next the unfortunate end of Kinwulf the West-Saxon; who having laudably reign'd about 31 years, yet suspecting that Kineard Brother of Sige∣bert the former King, intended to usurp the Crown after his Decease, or revenge his Brothers expulsi∣on, had commanded him into banishment; but he * 1.89 lurking heer and there on the borders with a small Company, having had intelligence that Kenwulf * 1.90 was in the Country thereabout, at Merantun, or Mer∣ton in Surrey, at the House of a Woeman whom he lov'd, went by night and beset the place. Kenwulf over-confident either of his Royal presence, or per∣sonal valour, issuing forth with the few about him, runs feirsly at Kineard, and wounds him sore, but by his followers hem'd in, is kill'd among them. The report of so great an accident soon running to a place not far off, where many more attendants awaited the Kings return, Osric and Wivert, two Earles hasted with a great number to the House, where Kineard and his fellows yet remain'd. He seeing himself surrounded, with fair words and pro∣mise

of great guifts, attempted to appease them; but those rejected with disdain, fights it out to the last, and is slain with all but one or two of his retinue, which were nigh a hunderd. Kinwulf was succeed∣ed by Birthric, being both descended of Kerdic the the Founder of that Kingdome. [An. Dom. 788] Not better was * 1.91 the end of Elswald in Northumberland, two years after slain miserably by the conspiracy of Siggan, one of his Nobles, others say of the whole people at Scilcester by the Roman Wall; yet undeservedly, as his Sepulchre at Hagustald, now Hexham upon * 1.92 Tine, and some miracles there said to be done, are al∣leg'd to witness; and Siggan 5 years after laid vio∣lent hands on himself. Osred Son of Alcred ad∣vanc't * 1.93 into the room of Elfwald, and within one year driv'n out, left his seat vacant to Ethelred Son of Mollo, who after ten years of banishment (im∣pris'nment, saith Alcuin) had the Scepter put again * 1.94 into his hand: [An. Dom. 789] The third year of Birthric King of West-Saxons, gave beginning from abroad to a new and fatal revolution of calamity on this Land. For three Danish Ships, the first that had bin seen heer of that Nation arriving in the West, to visit these, as was suppos'd, Foren Merchants, the Kings ga∣therer of Customes taking Horse from Dorchester, found them Spies and Enemies. For being com∣manded to come and give account of thir ladeing at the Kings Custome House, they slew him and all who came with him; as an earnest of the many slaughters, rapines, and hostilities, which they re∣turn'd not long after to commit over all the Iland. * 1.95 Of this Danish first arrival, and on a sudden worse then hostile Aggression, the Danish History far otherwise relates, as if thir landing had bin at the mouth of Humber, and thir spoilfull march far into

the Country; though soon repelld by the Inhabitants, they hasted back as fast to thir Ships: But from what cause, what reason of state, what Authority or pub∣lick counsell the invasion proceeded, makes not men∣tion, and our wonder yet the more, by telling us that Sigefrid then King in Denmarke, and long after, was a man studious more of peace and quiet then of warlike matters. These therefore seem rather * 1.96 to have bin some wanderers at Sea, who with pub∣lick Commission, or without, through love of spoil, or hatred of Christianity, seeking booties on any land of Christians, came by chance or weather on this shore. [An. Dom. 790] The next year Osred in Northumber∣land, * 1.97 who driv'n out by his Nobles had giv'n place to Ethelred, was tak'n and forcibly shav'n a Monk at Yorke. [An. Dom. 791] And the year after, Oels, and Oelswin, * 1.98 Sons of Elfwald, formerly King, were drawn by fair promises from the principal Church of Yorke, and after by command of Ethelred, cruelly put to Death at Wonwaldremere, a Village by the great Pool in Lancashire, now call'd Winandermere. Nor was the * 1.99 third year less bloody; [An. Dom. 792] for Osred, who not likeing a shav'n Crown, had desir'd banishment and obtain'd * 1.100 it, returning from the Ile of Man with small For∣ces, at the secret but deceitfull call of certain No∣bles, who by Oath had promis'd to assist him, was also tak'n, and by Ethelred dealt with in the same manner; who the better to avouch his Cruelties, therupon married Elfled the Daughter of Offa: for in Offa was found as little Faith or mercy. He the same year having drawn to his Palace Ethelbrite King of East-Angles, with fair invitations to marry his Daughter, caus'd him to be there inhospitably be∣headed, and his Kingdome wrongfully seis'd, by the wicked counsel of his Wife, saith Mat. West. an∣nexing

thereto a long unlikely Tale. For which vio∣lence and bloodshed to make attonement, with Fry∣ers at lest, he bestows the reliques of St. Alban, in a shrine of Pearl and Gold. [An. Dom. 793] Far worse it far'd the * 1.101 next year with the reliques in Lindisfarne; where the Danes landing, pillag'd that Monastery, and of Fryers kill'd some, carried away others Captive, sparing neither Preist nor Lay: which many strange thunders and fiery Dragons, with other impressions in the air seen frequently before, were judg'd to foresignifie. This year Alric third Son of Victred ended in Kent his long Reign of 34 years: with him ended the race of Hengist: thenceforth whom∣soever wealth or faction advanc'd, took on him the name and state of a King. The Saxon Annals of 784. name Ealmund then reigning in Kent; but that consists not with the time of Alric, and I find him no where else mentiond. [An. Dom. 794] The year following was re∣markable * 1.102 for the Death of Offa the Mercian, a stre∣nuous and suttle King; he had much intercourse with Charles the Great, at first enmity, to the interdicting of commerce on either side, at length much amity and firm League, as appears by the Letter of Charles himself yet extant, procur'd by Alcuin a learned and prudent man, though a Monk, whom the Kings of England in those days had sent Orator into France, to maintain good correspondence between them and Charles the Great. He granted, saith Huntingdon, a perpetual tribute to the Pope out of every House in his Kingdome; for yeilding perhaps to translate * 1.103 the Primacy of Canterbury to Lichfeild in his own Dominion. He drew a trench of wondrous length between Mercia and the British Confines, from Sea to Sea. Ecferth the Son of Offa, a Prince of great hope, who also had bin Crown'd 9 years before his

Fathers Decease, restoring to the Church what his Father had seis'd on: yet within fowr Months by a sickness ended his Reign. And to Kenulf next in right of the same Progeny bequeath'd his King∣dome. Mean while the Danish Pirats who still wa∣sted Northumberland, ventring on shoar to spoil ano∣ther Monastery at the mouth of the River Don, were assail'd by the English, thir Cheif Captain slain on the place; then returning to Sea, were most of them Ship-wrack'd; others driv'n again on shoar, were put all to the Sword. Simeon attributes this thir pu∣nishment to the power of St. Cudbert, offended with them for the rifling of his Covent. [An. Dom. 796] Two years after * 1.104 this, dy'd Ethelred twice King, but not exempted at last from the fate of many his predecessors, miserably slain by his people, some say deservedly as not in∣conscious with them who train'd Osred to his ruin. Osbald a Nobleman exalted to the Throne, and in less then a month, deserted and expell'd, was forc'd to fly at last from Lindisfarne by Sea to the Pictish King, and dy'd an Abbot. Eardulf whom Ethelred six years before had commanded to be put to Death at Ripun, before the Abbey-Gate, dead as was sup∣pos'd, and with solemn Dirge carried into the Church, after midnight found there alive, I read not how, then banish'd, now recall'd, was in Yorke crea∣ted King. In Kent, Ethelbert or Pren, whom the An∣nals call Eadbright (so different they often are one from another, both in timeing and in nameing) by some means having usurp'd regal power, after two years Reign contending with Kenulf the Mercian, was by him tak'n Pris'ner, and soon after, out of pi∣ous commiseration let go: but not receav'd of his own, what became of him, Malmsbury leaves in doubt. Simeon writes, that Kenulf commanded to

put out his Eyes, and lop off his hands; but whether the sentence were executed or not, is left as much in doubt by his want of expression. [An. Dom. 798] The second year * 1.105 after this, they in Northumberland who had con∣spir'd against Ethelred, now also raising War against Eardulf, under Wada thir Cheif Captain, after much havock on either side at Langho, by Whaley in Lan∣cashire, the Conspirators at last flying, Eardulf re∣turn'd with Victory. The same year London, with a great multitude of her Inhabitants, by a sudden fire was consum'd. [An. Dom. 800] The year 800. made way for great alteration in England, uniting her seaven King∣doms into one, by Echert the famous West-Saxon; him Birthric dying Childless left next to reign, the only surviver of that linage, descended from Ine∣gild the Brother of King Ina. And according to his * 1.106 Birth liberally bred, he began early from his youth to give signal hopes of more then ordinary worth growing up in him; which Birthric fearing, and with all his juster title to the Crown, secretly sought his life, and Ecbert perceaving, fled to Offa the Mer∣cian▪ but he having married Eadburg his Daughter to Birthric, easily gave ear to his Embassadors; com∣ing * 1.107 to require Ecbert, he again put to his shifts, es∣cap'd thence into France; but after three years ba∣nishment there, which perhaps contributed much to his education, Charles the Great then reigning, he was call'd over by the publick voice (for Birthric was newly dead) and with general applause created King of West-Saxons. The same day Ethelmund at Kinneresford, passing over with the Worcestershire men, was met by Weolstan another Nobleman with those of Wiltshire, between whom happ'nd a great fray, wherin the Wiltshire men overcame, but both Dukes were slain, no reason of thir quarrel writ'n;

such bickerings to recount, met oft'n in these our Writers, what more worth is it then to Chronicle the Wars of Kites, or Crows, flocking and fighting in the Air? [An. Dom. 801] The year following, Eardulf the Northum∣brian, * 1.108 leading forth an Army against Kenulf the Mercian, for harboring certain of his Enemies, by the diligent mediation of other Princes and Prelats, Armes were laid aside, and amity soon sworn be∣tween them. But Eadburga the Wife of Birthric, a * 1.109 woeman every way wicked, in malice especially cru∣el, [An. Dom. 802] could not or car'd not to appease the general ha∣tred justly conceiv'd against her;* 1.110 accustom'd in her Husbands days to accuse any whom she spighted; and not prevailing to his ruin, her practice was by poison secretly to contrive his Death. It fortun'd that the King her Husband, lighting on a Cup which she had temperd, not for him, but for one of his great Favourites, whom she could not harm by accuseing, sip'd therof only, and in a while after still pineing away, ended his days; the favourite drinking deep∣er found speedier the operation. She fearing to be questiond for these facts, with what treasure she had, pass'd over-sea to Charles the Great, whom with rich guifts coming to his presence, the Emperour courtly receav'd with this pleasant proposal: Choose Ead∣burga, which of us two thou wilt, me or my Son (for his Son stood by him) to be thy Husband. She no dissembler of what she lik'd best, made easie answer. Were it in my choise, I should choose of the two your Son rather, as the younger man. To whom the Emperour between jest and earnest, hadst thou chosen me, I had bestow'd on thee my Son; but since thou hast chos'n him, thou shalt have neither him nor me. Nevertheless he assign'd her a rich Mona∣stery to dwell in as Abbess; for that life it may

seem, she chose next to profess; but being a while after detected of unchastity, with one of her fol∣lowers, she was commanded to depart thence; from that time wandring poorly up and down with one Servant, in Pavia a City of Italy, she finish'd at last in beggery her shamefull life. [An. Dom. 805] In the year 805. Cuthred, whom Kenuls the Mercian had,* 1.111 instead of Pren, made King in Kent, having obscurely reign'd 8 years, deceas'd. [An. Dom. 806] In Northumberland, Eardulf the year following was driv'n out of his Realm by Alf∣wold, who Reign'd two years in his room;* 1.112 after whom Eandred Son of Eardulf 33 years; [An. Dom. 808] but I see not how this can stand with the sequel of story out of better Authors:* 1.113 [An. Dom. 809] Much less that which Buchanan relates, the year following, of Acaius King of Scots, who having reign'd 32 years, and dying in 809, had formerly aided (but in what year of his Reign tells not) Hungus King of Picts with 10000 Scots, against Athelstan a Saxon or English-man, then wa∣sting the Pictish Borders; that Hungus by the aid of those Scots and the help of St. Andrew thir Patron, in a Vision by night, and the appearance of his cross by day, routed the astonisht English, and slew Athel∣stan in fight. Who this Athelstan was, I believe no man knows; Buchanan supposes him to have been some Danish Commander, on whom King Alured, or Alfred, had bestow'd Northumberland; but of this I find no footsteps in our antient Writers; and if any such thing were done in the time of Alfred, it must be little less then 100. years after; this Athelstan therefore, and this great overthrow, seems rather to have bin the fancy of some Legend then any war∣rantable Record.* 1.114 Mean while Ecbert, having with much Prudence, Justice, and Clemency, [An. Dom. 813] a work of more then one year,* 1.115 establisht his Kingdome and

himself in the affections of his people, turns his first enterprise against the Britans, both them of Corn∣wal and those beyond Seavern, subdueing both. In Mercia, Kenulf the 6th. year after, having reign'd with great praise of his religious mind and vertues both in Peace and War, deceas'd. [An. Dom. 819] His Son Kenelm, * 1.116 a Child of seaven years, was committed to the care of his Elder Sister Quendrid; who with a female ambition aspiring to the Crown, hir'd one who had the charge of his nurture, to murder him, led into a woody place upon pretence of hunting. The mur∣der, as is reported, was miraculously reveal'd; but to tell how, by a Dove droping a writt'n note on the Altar at Rome, is a long story, told, though out of order, by Malmsbury; and under the year 821. by Mat. West. where I leave it to be sought by such as are more credulous then I wish my Readers. On∣ly the note was to this purpose.

Low in a mead of Kine under a Thorn, Of head bereft li'th poor Kenelm King-born.

[An. Dom. 820] Keolwulf the Brother of Kenulf, after one years Reign was driv'n out by one Bernulf an Usurper: * 1.117 who in his third year, [An. Dom. 823] uncertain whether invading or invaded, was by Ecbert,* 1.118 though with great loss on both sides, overthrown and put to flight at Ellandune or Wilton: yet Malmsbury accounts this Battel fought in 806, a wide difference, but frequently found in thir computations. Bernulf thence retire∣ing to the East-Angles, as part of his Dominion by the late seisure of Offa, was by them met in the field and slain: but they doubting what the Mercians might do in revenge hereof, forthwith yielded themselves both King and people to the Sovrantie of Ecbert. As for

the Kings of East-Angles, our Annals mention them not since Ethelwald; him succeeded his Brothers * 1.119 Sons, as we find in Malmsbury, Aldulf (a good King, well acquainted with Bede) and Elwold who left the Kingdome to Beorn, he to Ethelred the Father of Ethelbrite, whom Offa perfidiously put to Death. Simeon and Hoveden, in the year 749. write that Elf∣wald King of East-Angles dying, Humbeanna and Albert shar'd the Kingdom between them; but where to insert this among the former successions is not easie, nor much material: after Ethelbrite, none is nam'd of that Kingdom till thir submitting now to Ecbert: he from this Victory against Bernulf sent part of his Army under Ethelwulf his Son, with Al∣stan Bishop of Shirburn, and Wulferd a Chief Com∣mander, into Kent. Who finding Baldred there reigning in his 18th. year, overcame and drove him over the Thames; whereupon all Kent, Surrey, Sussex, and lastly Essex, with her King Swithred, became subject to the Dominion of Ecbert. Neither were these all his exploits of this year, the first in order set down in Saxon Annals, being his fight against the Devonshire Welch, at a place call'd Gasulford, now Camelford in Cornwal.* 1.120 [An. Dom. 825] Ludiken the Mercian, after two years preparing to avenge Bernulf his Kinsman on the East-Angles,* 1.121 was by them with his five Consuls, as the Annals call them, surpris'd and put to the Sword: and Withlaf his successor first vanquisht, then upon submission with all Mercia, made tribu∣tary to Ecbert. Mean while the Northumbrian King∣dom of it self was fall'n to shivers; thir Kings one after another so oft'n slain by the people, no man dareing, though never so ambitious, to take up the Scepter which many had found so hot, (the only effectual cure of ambition that I have read) for the

space of 33 years, after the Death of Ethelred Son of Mollo, as Malmsbury writes, there was no King: many Noblemen and Prelats were fled the Country. Which mis-rule among them, the Danes having un∣derstood, oft-times from thir Ships entring far into the land, infested those parts with wide depopulati∣ons, wasting Towns, Churches, and Monasteries, for they were yet Heathen: The Lent before whose coming, on the North-side of St. Peters Church in Yorke, was seen from the roof to rain blood. The causes of these calamities, and the ruin of that King∣dom, Alcuin, a learned Monk living in those days, at∣tributes in several Epistles, and well may, to the general ignorance and decay of lerning, which crept in among them after the Death of Beda, and of Ec∣bert the Archbishop; thir neglect of breeding up youth in the Scriptures, the spruce and gay apparel of thir Preists and Nuns, discovering thir vain and wanton minds, examples are also read, eev'n in Be∣da's days, of thir wanton deeds: thence Altars de∣fil'd with perjuries, Cloisters violated with Adulte∣ries, the Land polluted with blood of thir Princes, civil dissentions among the people, and finally all the same vices which Gildas alledg'd of old to have ruin'd the Britans. In this estate Ecbert, who had now conquerd all the South, finding them in the year 827. [An. Dom. 827] (for he was march'd thether with an Ar∣my to compleat his Conquest of the whole Iland) no wonder if they submitted themselves to the yoke without resistance, Eandred thir King becoming Tri∣butary. [An. Dom. 828] Thence turning his forces the year follow∣ing, * 1.122 he subdu'd more throughly what remain'd of North-Wales.

The End of the Fourth Book.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Bed. Malms.
• * 1.2

  Bed. l. 1. c. 25.
• * 1.3

  Bed. l. 1. c. 22.
• * 1.4

  Bed. l. 2. c. 1.
• * 1.5

  Malms. l. 1. c. 3.
• * 1.6

  Bed. l. 2. c. 5.
• * 1.7

  Sax. an. Malms.
• * 1.8

  Bed. l. 1. c. 27.
• * 1.9

  Bed. l. 2. l. 34.
• * 1.10

  Bed. l. 2. c. 3
• * 1.11

  Spelman. concil. pag. 108.
• * 1.12

  Sax. an. Huntingd.
• * 1.13

  Malms. gest. pont. l. 1.
• * 1.14

  Sax. an.
• * 1.15

  Sax. an. Malms.
• * 1.16

  Camd.
• * 1.17

  Sax. an.
• * 1.18

  Malms.
• * 1.19

  Malmsb. L. 1. c. 3.
• * 1.20

  Camden.
• * 1.21

  Bed. L. 2. c. 15.
• * 1.22

  Sax. ann.
• * 1.23

  Sax. an.
• * 1.24

  Florent. Genealog.
• * 1.25

  Sax. an.
• * 1.26

  Mat. West.
• * 1.27

  Camden.
• * 1.28

  Bed. L. 3. c. 14.
• * 1.29

  Sax. an.
• * 1.30

  Sax. an.
• * 1.31

  Bede.
• * 1.32

  Bed. l. 3. c. 7.
• * 1.33

  Sax. an.
• * 1.34

  Bed. l. 3. c. 16. Camd.
• * 1.35

  Camden.
• * 1.36

  Mat West.
• * 1.37

  Bed. l. 3. c. 22.
• * 1.38

  Sax. an.
• * 1.39

  Sax. an.
• * 1.40

  Sax. an.
• * 1.41

  Bed.
• * 1.42

  Malms.
• * 1.43

  Sax. ann.
• * 1.44

  Sax. an.
• * 1.45

  Sax. an.
• * 1.46

  Malms.
• * 1.47

  Bed. l. 4. c. 12.
• * 1.48

  Bed. l. 4. c. 12. Sax. an. Malms.
• * 1.49

  Bed. l. 4. c. 12.
• * 1.50

  Bed. l. 4. c. 13. Camd.
• * 1.51

  Sax. an.
• * 1.52

  Sax. an.
• * 1.53

  Bed. l. 4. c. 15
• * 1.54

  Malms.
• * 1.55

  Bed. l. 4. c. 16
• * 1.56

  Malms.
• * 1.57

  Sax. an. Malms.
• * 1.58

  Bed.
• * 1.59

  Malms. Sax. an. Ethel∣werd.
• * 1.60

  Sax. an. Huntingd.
• * 1.61

  Bed. Epit.
• * 1.62

  Sax. an. Sax. an. Huntingd.
• * 1.63

  L. 5. c. 9.
• * 1.64

  Bed. l. 5. c. 24.
• * 1.65

  Bede.
• * 1.66

  Sax. an. Ethelwerd.
• * 1.67

  Malms.
• * 1.68

  Malms. Sax. an.
• * 1.69

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.70

  Hoved. Malms.
• * 1.71

  Sax. an.
• * 1.72

  Sax. an. Huntingd.
• * 1.73

  Huntingd.
• * 1.74

  Camden.
• * 1.75

  Sax. an.
• * 1.76

  Malms.
• * 1.77

  Huntingd. Huntingd.
• * 1.78

  Camden.
• * 1.79

  Camd.
• * 1.80

  Sax. an. Epit. Bed. Sim. Dun.
• * 1.81

  Sim. Dun. Eccles. L. 2.
• * 1.82

  Sim. Dun. Mat West.
• * 1.83

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.84

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.85

  Sax. an.
• * 1.86

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.87

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.88

  Ethelwerd. Malms.
• * 1.89

  Sax. ann.
• * 1.90

  Camd.
• * 1.91

  Sim. Dun. Malms.
• * 1.92

  Camd.
• * 1.93

  Malms.
• * 1.94

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.95

  Pontan. L. 3.
• * 1.96

  Pontan. L. 4.
• * 1.97

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.98

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.99

  Camden.
• * 1.100

  Sim. Dun. Sim. Dun. Eccles. L. 2.
• * 1.101

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.102

  Malms.
• * 1.103

  Asser. Men. Sim. Dun.
• * 1.104

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.105

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.106

  Malms.
• * 1.107

  Sax. an.
• * 1.108

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.109

  Malms. L. 2. Asser.
• * 1.110

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.111

  Malms. Sax. ann.
• * 1.112

  Huntingd. Sim. Dun.
• * 1.113

  Mat. West.
• * 1.114

  Sim. Dun.
• * 1.115

  Sax. an.
• * 1.116

  Sax. an. Malms.
• * 1.117

  Ingulf.
• * 1.118

  Sax. an.
• * 1.119

  Florent. Genealog. Bed. L. 2. c. 15.
• * 1.120

  Camd.
• * 1.121

  Ingulf.
• * 1.122

  Mat. West.