The lives of the popes from the time of our saviour Jesus Christ, to the reign of Sixtus IV / written originally in Latine by Baptista Platina ... and translated into English, and the same history continued from the year 1471 to this present time, wherein the most remarkable passages of Christendom, both in church and state are treated of and described, by Paul Rycaut ...

THE LIVES OF THE BISHOPS and POPES OF ROME.

S. PETER the Apostle.

AFTER the Death and Resurrection of Christ, and the Completion of the days of Pentecost; the Disci∣ples received the Holy Ghost: and being filled with the Spirit, they published the wonderful works of God in divers Tongues, though most of them, espe∣cially Peter and John, were look'd upon as utterly illiterate men. Their manner of living was mea∣sur'd by the common Good; none of them challenged any propriety in any thing; and whatsoever Religious Oblation was laid at their feet, they either divided it between themselves for the supply of the necessities of Nature, or else distributed it to the Poor, These Di∣sciples had each of them his Province assigned to him; to St. Thomas was allotted Parthia, to St. Matthew Aethiopia, to St. Bartholomew India on this side Ganges, to St. Andrew Scythia, and Asia to St. John; who after a long series of toyl and care, died during his abode at Ephesus. But to St. Peter, the chief of the Apostles, were assigned Pontus, Ga∣latia, Bithynia and Cappadocia; who being by birth a Galilean, of the City of Bethsaida, the son of John, and Brother of Andrew the Apostle, sate first in the Episcopal See of Antioch for seven years in the days of Tiberius.

This Emperour was Son-in-law and Heir to Augustus, and for the space* 1.1 of twenty three years his administration of the Government had so much of change and variety in it, that we cannot reckon him altoge∣ther a bad, or absolutely a good Prince. He was a Man of great Learn∣ning, and weighty Eloquence; his Wars he managed not in Person, but by his Lieutenants: and shew'd a great deal of Prudence in suppressing any sudden commotions. Having by Arts of flattery enticed sevcral Princes to his Court, he never suffered them to return home again: as particu∣larly

among others Archelaus of Cappadocia, whose Kingdom he made a Province of the Empire. Many of the Senators were banish'd, and some of them slain by him. C. Asinius Gallus the Pleader, son of Asinius Pollio, was by his Order put to death with the most exquisite torments; and Vocienus Montanus Narbonensis, one of the same profession, died in the Baleares, whither Tiberius had confined him. Moreover Historians tell us, that that his Brother Drusus was poisoned at his command. And yet upon occasion he exercised so much lenity, that when certain Pub∣licans and Governours of Provinces moved him to raise the publick taxes, he gave them this Answer, That a good Shepherd does indeed shear, but not flay his sheep.

Tiberius dying, C. Coesar, who, with a jocular reflection upon his education in the Camp, had the surname of* 1.2 Caligula, succeeded him in the Empire; he was the son of Drusus (son-in-law to Augustus) and Nephew to Tiberius. The greatest Villain in the World, and one who never did any wor∣thy Action either at home or abroad. His Avarice put him upon all manner of Oppression; his Lust was such, that he did not forbear to violate the Chastity of his own Sisters; and his cruelty was so great, that he is reported oftentimes to have cryed out, Oh! That all the people of Rome had but one Neck! At his Command all who were under pro∣scription were put to Death; for having recalled a certain person from banishment, and enquiring of him, what the Exiles did chiefly wish for; the man imprudently answering, that they desired nothing more than the Death of the Emperour; he thereupon gave order that every man of them should be executed. He would often complain of the condition of his times, that they were not rendred remarkable by any publick Calamities, as those of Tiberius had been, in whose Reign no less than 20000 men had been slain by the fall of a Theatre at Tarracina. He ex∣press'd so much envy at the renown of Virgil and Livy, that he was very near taking away their Writings and Images out of all the Libra∣ries; the former of which he would censure as a man of no Wit and little Learning, the latter as a verbose and negligent Historian; and it was his common by-word concerning Seneca, That his Writings were like a rope of Sand. Agrippa the son of King Herod, who had been cast into prison by Tiberius for accusing Herod, was by him set at liberty, and made King of Judoea; while Herod himself was confin'd to perpe∣tual banishment at Lyons. He caused himself to be translated into the number of the Gods, and ordered the setting up Images in the Temple of Jerusalem. At last he was assaulted and slain by some of his own Of∣ficers, in the third year, and tenth month of his Empire. Among his Writings were found two Rolls or Lists, one of which had a Dagger, the other a Sword stamp'd upon it for a Seal; they both contain'd the Names and Characters of certain principal men, both of the Senatorian and Equestrian Order, whom he had design'd to slaughter, There was found likewise a large Chest fill'd with several sorts of Poisons, which being at the Command of Claudius Coesar, not long after, thrown into the Sea, 'tis reported that the Waters were so infected thereby, that there died abundance of Fish, which the Tide cast up in vast numbers upon the neighbouring shores.

I thought good to give this account of these Monsters of men, that thereby it might the better appear, that God could then have scarce for∣born

destroying the whole World, unless he had sent his Son and his Apostles; by whose bloud manking, though equal to Lycaon in impiety, was yet redeem'd from destruction. In their times lived that St. Peter, whom our Saviour (upon his ackowledgment of him to be the Christ) bespake in these words; Blessed art thou Simon Bar Jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in Heaven; and, Thou art Peter, and upon this Rock I will build my Church; and I will give unto thee the keyes of the Kingdom of Heaven, and the Power of binding and loosing. This Apostle being a Person of most unwearied indu∣stry, when he had sufficiently setled the Churches of Asia, and confuted the Opinion of those who maintained the necessity of Circumcision, came into Italy in the second year of Claudius.

This Claudius, who was Uncle to Caligula, and had been all along very* 1.3 contumeliously treated and bussoon'd by his Nephew, being now Emperor, making an Expedition into Britain, had the Island surrendred up to him; an Enterprise which none before Julius Coesar, nor any after Claudius durst undertake: he also added the Isles of Orkney to the Roman Empire. He ba∣nish'd out of the City of Rome the seditious Jews, and suppress'd the tumults in Judoea, which had been rais'd by certain false Prophets. And while Cuma∣nus was appointed by him Procurator of Judoea, there were crush'd to Death in the Porches of the Temple of Jerusalem during the days of Unlca∣vened bread to the number of thirty thousand Jews. At the same time also there was a great dearth and scarcity of provision throughout the whole World; a Calamity which had been foretold by ••••••gabus the Prophet. Being secure of any hostilities from abroad he finish'd the Aquaeduct that had been begun by Caligula, whose ruines are yet to be seen in the Lateran. He attempted also to empty the Lake Fucinus, being prompted thereto by the hope of getting not only honour and reputation, but profit and ad∣vantage by it; since there was a certain person who proffered to undertake that work at his own private charge, upon condition that the Land when it was drein'd might have been granted to him for his reward. The Mountain being partly undermin'd, partly cut through, the length of three miles, the Passage was at the end of eleven years with much ado finish'd, there being no less than 30000 labourers continually employ'd in it. It was he likewise that made the Harbour of Ostia, by drawing an Arm of the Sea on each hand, and so breaking the violence of the Waves; a Work, the footsteps of which are not to be seen at this day without Wonder. Having put to death his Wife Messalina for Adultery, he af∣terwards, against all Law both Humane and Divine, married Agrippina the Daughter of his Brother Germanicus, by whom in the fourteenth year of his Empire he was poison'd with Mushrooms prepared by her for that purpose.

In his time St. Peter came to Rome the principal City of the World; both because he judg'd it a Seat best accommodated to the Pontifical dignity, and because likewise he understood that Simon Magus, a certain* 1.4 Samaritan, had planted there; who by his Sorceries had so far seduced the People, that they believed him to be a God. For his Statue had been al∣ready erected at Rome, between the two Bridges, with this Latin Inscrip∣tion Simoni Deo Sancto, i. e. to Simon the Holy God. This man while he stai'd in Samaria, pretended Faith in Christ so far as to obtain Baptism from Philip one of the seven Deacons; which afterwards abusing to ill

ends, he laid the foundation of divers Heresies. To him was joyn'd one Sebene a shameless Strumpet, who was his Companion and partner in Villany. To such an heighth of impudence did this lewd Fellow arrive, that he challenged St. Peter to work Miracles with him; and particu∣larly he undertook to raise to life a dead child; which indeed at first seem'd somewhat to move at his Charms: But it being manifest present∣ly that the Child nevertheless continued dead still, at St. Peters com∣mand in the Name of Jesus, it immediately arose. Simon being enraged hereat, profered, as a further trial which of them was the more holy man, and more beloved of God, to fly from the Capitol to the Aventine in the sight of all the People, provided Peter would follow him. While he was yet flying, at the prayer of Peter who with hands lift up to Hea∣ven, beseeched God not to suffer so great a multitude to be deluded with Magical Arts, down he fell and broke his Leg, with grief of which Mis-adventure he not long after died at Aricia, whither his followers had conveighed him after this foul disgrace. From him the Hereticks called Simoniaci had their original, who pretended to buy and sell the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and who asserted the Creatures to proceed from a certain superiour Power, but not to be from God.

After this St. Peter applying himself both by Preaching and Example* 1.5 to the propagating of the Word of God, was by the Christian Romans earnestly desired, that John surnamed Mark, who was his Son in Baptism, and a person of a most approved life and conversation, might be employed by him in writing a Gospel. St. Hierom saith that he being a Priest in Israel, a Levite according to the flesh, after his conversion to the Chri∣stian Faith, wrote his Gospel in Italy; shewing what he owed to his own Parentage and Extraction, and what to Christ. Which Gospel, as we now have it, was approved by the testimony of St. Peter. Being af∣terwards sent into Egypt, as Philo the Jew a famous Writer tells us, after that by Preaching and Writing he had well form'd the Alexandrian Church, being a man very eminent both for his Life and Learning, in the eighth year of the Emperor Nero, he died and was buried at Alexan∣dria; in whose place succeeded Anianus.

The year before died James, surnamed Justus, the Brother of our* 1.6 Lord, being the Son of Joseph by another Wife, or, as some will have it, Sisters son to Mary Christ's Mother. Egefippus, who lived near the A∣postles times, affirms of him that he was holy in his Mothers Womb; that he drank neither Wine nor strong drink, nor ever tasted flesh; that he neither shaved, nor bathed, nor anointed himself, nor ever wore any other but linnen garments. He was often accustomed to enter into the Holy of Holies, where he continued so incessantly in his Prayers for the Welfare of the People, that his knees were grown hard and callous like those of Ca∣mels. But Festus leaving the Government of Judoea, before Albinus his suc∣cessor arrived there, the High Priest Ananus, the son of Ananus, requiring James publickly to deny Christ to be the Son of God, upon his refusal he gave order he should be stoned to Death; who, after he had been thrown down headlong from a pinacle of the Temple, continuing yet half alive, and with hands stretch'd forth towards Heaven praying for his persecutors, was at last kill'd outright with a blow of a Fullers Club. Josephus reports him to have been a man of so great sanctity, that it was the general belief that his murder was the cause of the destruction

of Jerusalem. This is that James, whom our Lord appeared to after his Resurrection, and to whom, having blessed Bread and broken it, he said, Brother eat thy Bread, because the son of man is risen. He presided over the Church of Jerusalem thirty years, that is, to the seventh year of Nero. His Sepulchre with an Inscription, hard by the Temple from which he had been cast down, was yet in being in Andrian's time.

It is evident likewise that Barnabas, by birth a Cypriot, surnamed Joses,* 1.7 a Levite, died before St. Peter's martyrdom. He being chosen together with Paul an Apostle of the Gentiles, wrote only one Epistle of mat∣ters concerning the Church, and that too is reckoned Apocryphal There happening to be a difference between him and Paul occasioned by Mark a Disciple, he accompanied with the said Mark, went to Cyprus, where Preaching the faith of Christ he was crowned with Martyrdom. Paul,* 1.8 first called Saul, was descended of the Tribe of Benjamin, of a Town of Judoea, called Giscalis; which being taken in War by the Romans, he with his Parents removed to Tarsus a City of Cilicia. And be∣ing sent thence to Jerusalem to study the Law, he had his Education under the learned Gamaliel. After this receiving Letters from the High Priest, he became a Persecutor of those that professed Christ to be the true God; and particularly was present and assistant at the death of St. Stephen the Protomartyr. But as he was going to Damascus, being by the Divine Spirit wonderfully converted to the Faith, he be∣came a chosen Vessel; and from that time took the name of Paul, from a Pro-consul of Cyprus, whom by his preaching he had converted to Christianity. After this he, together with Barnabas, having travel∣led through divers Cities, upon his return to Jerusalem, was by Pe∣ter, John, and James, chosen an Apostle of the Gentiles. In the twenty fifth year after the death of Christ, which was the second of the Emperor Nero, and the time when Festus succeeded Felix in the Procurator∣ship of Judoea, he with his fellow-captive Aristarchus was as a free Denizon sent bound to Rome; where continuing the space of two years under very little confinement, he was daily engaged in disputa∣tion with the Jews. Being at length set at liberty by Nero, he both preached and wrote many things. We have at this day fourteen of his Epistles; one to the Romans, two to the Corinthians, one to the Galatians, one to the Ephesians, one to the Philippians, one to the Colossians, two to the Thessalonians. two to Timothy, one to Titus, and one to Phi∣lemon; that to the Hebrews is generally said to be his, though because of the difference of style and phrase from the rest, it be uncertain whe∣ther it were so or no; and there have been anciently divers who have entituled it, some to Luke, some to Barnabas, some to Clemens. St. Peter also wrote two general Epistles, though the latter be by many denied to be his for the same reason of the difference of style. But being so taken up with Prayer and Preaching, that he could not attend any other great variety of business, he constituted two Bishops, viz. Linus and Cletus, who might exercise the sacerdotal Ministery to the Romans and other Christians. The holy man applying himself entirely to these things, gained thereby so great and universal a Reputation, that men were ready to worship him as a God. The Emperor Nero being displeased hereat, began to contrive his death; whereupon St. Peter, with the ad∣vice of his Friends, that he might avoid the Emperours envy and rage,

departed out of the City by the Via Appia; and at the end of the first mile he travelled, to use the words of Egesippus, meeting with Christ in the way, and falling down and worshipping him, he said, Lord whither goest thou? to whom Christ replied, I go to Rome to be crucified again. There is yet remaining a Chappel built on the same place where these words were spoken. Now St. Peter believing this saying of our Saviour to re∣late to his own martyrdom, because Christ might seem to be ready to suffer again in him, went back to the City, and forth with consecra∣ted Clemens a Bishop, and in these words recommended to him his Chair, and the Church of God; I deliver to thee the same power of binding and loosing which Christ lest to me; do thou, as becomes a good Pastor, promote the salvation of men both by Prayer and Preaching, without regard to any hazard of Life or Fortune. Having set these things thus in order, at the Command of Nero in the last year of his Empire, He was put to death together with St. Paul, though the kinds of their Punishment were different. For St. Peter was crucified with his Head towards the ground, and his Feet upwards, for so he desired it might be, saying, That he was unworthy to undergo the same kind of death with his Saviour. He was buried in the Vatican, in the Via Aurelia, near Nero's Gardens, not far from the Via Triumphalis which leads to the Temple of Apollo. He continued in the See 25 years. But St. Paul being on the same day beheaded, was interred in the Via Ostiensis, in the 37th year after the death of Christ. This is confirmed by the testimony of Caius the Historian, who in a Disputation against one Proculus a Montanist has these words; I, says he, can shew you the Victorious Ensigns of the Apostles; for you cannot pass the Via Regalis that leads to the Vatican, nor the Via Ostiensis, but you will find the Trophies of those Hero's that established this Church: where certainly he refers to these two St. Peter and St. Paul. In the fore-mentioned Gardens of Nero, were reposited the ashes of a multitude of holy Martyrs. For a Fire happening in the time of Nero, which raging for six days together, had wasted a great part of the City, and devoured the substance of many wealthy Citizens, the blame of all which was laid upon the Emperour; He, as Tacitus tells us, being very desirous to quell the rumour, suborn'd false Wit∣nesses to accuse, and lay all the blame of that Calamity upon the Chri∣stians. Whereupon so great a number of them were seiz'd and put to death, that it is said the flame of their empaled bodies supplied the room of lights for some nights together. There are those who say this Fire was kindled by Nero, either that he might have before his Eyes the Re∣semblance of burning Troy, or else because he had taken offence at the irregularity of the old Houses, and the narrowness and windings of the streets; neither of which are improbable of such a man as he, who was pro∣fligately self-will'd, intemperate and cruel, and in all respects more lewd and wicked than his Uncle Caligula. For he both put to death a great part of the Senate, and also without any regard to Decency would in the fight of the People sing and dance in the publique Theatre. His dissolute Lux∣ury was such, that he made use of perfum'd cold Baths, and fished with golden Nets, which were drag'd with Purple Cords. Yet he took such care to conceal all these Vices in the beginning of his Empire, that men had generally great hopes of him. For being put in mind to sign a War∣rant according to Custom for the Execution of one that was condemn'd to

die, How glad, says he, should I be that I had never learnt to write. Ho∣was very sumptuous in his Buildings both in the City and elsewhere; for the Baths called by his Name, and the Aurea Domus, and the Portico three miles long were finish'd by him with with wondrous magnificence; be∣sides which he was at a vast expence to make the Haven at Antium, at the sight of which I my self not long since was wonderfully pleased. I return to his Cruelty, which he exercised towards his Master Seneca, towards M. Annoeus Lucanus the famous Poet, towards his Mother A∣grippina, and his Wife Octavia, towards Cornutus the Philosopher Perfius's Master, whom he banish'd, towards Piso, and in a word towards all those who were in any reputation among the Citizens. In the end, he so highly provok'd the rage and hatred of the people against him, that most diligent search was made after him to bring him to condign punish∣ment: Which punishment was, that being bound, he should be led up and down with a Gallows upon his neck; and being whipped with Rods to Death, his body should be thrown into the River Tyber. But he making his escape four miles out of the City, laid violent hands upon himself in the Countrey-house of one of his Freemen; between the Via Salaria, and Nomentana, in the thirty second year of his Age, and of his Reign the fourteenth.

S. LINUS.

LINUS, by Nation a Tuscan, his Father's name Herculeanus, was in the Chair from the last year of Nero to the times of Vespasian, and from the Consulship of Saturninus and Scipio, to that of Capito and Rufus.

In this space of time there were no less than three Emperours, Galba, Otho, and Vitellius, each of them reigning but a very little while.

Galba, a Person descended of the most ancient Nobility, being created* 1.9 Emperour by the Soldiers in Spain, assoon as he heard of the death of Nero, came immediatey to Rome. But rendring himself obnoxious to all men by his Avarice and Sloth, through the treachery of Otho, he was slain at Rome near Curtius's Lake in the seventh month of his Reign; to∣gether with Piso a Noble Youth whom he had adopted for his Son. He was doubtless a man, who before he came to the Empire, was very eminent in the management both of Military and Civil affairs; being often Consul, often Proconsul, and several times General in the most important Wars. That which makes me speak this in his praise, is the Learning of M. Fabius Quintilianus, whom Galba brought with him out of Spain to Rome.

Otho, a man of better extraction by his Mother's than by his Fa∣ther's* 1.10 side, who while he led a private life was very loose and effemi∣nate, as being a great and intimate Friend of Nero's, in the midst of tumults and slaughters, as I hinted before, invaded the Empire. But being ingaged in a Civil War against Vitellius, who had been created Emperour in Germany, though he got the better in three small Skir∣mishes, one at the Alps, another at Placentia, the third at Castor; yet

losing the day in the last and most considerable, which was at Bebriacum, he thereupon fell into so deep a melancholly, that, in the third month of his Empire he stab'd himself.

Vitellius, concerning whose Extraction there are different Opinions,* 1.11 coming to Rome, and obtaining the Empire, soon degenerated into all manner of lewdness, cruelty and gluttony, being used to make several Meals in a day, and some of them to such an height of Luxury, that there have been at one Supper no less than two thousand Fishes, and seven thousand Fowl serv'd up to his Table. But having intelligence that Ve∣spasian, who had been created Emperour by the Army in Judoea, was advancing with his Legions, he at first determin'd to quit the Empire; yet being afterwards encouraged by those about him, he took up Arms, and forc'd Sabinus, Vespasian's Brother, with his Flavian Soldiers into the Capitol; which being set on fire, they were all burnt. Hereupon being surpriz'd by Vespasian, and having no hope of pardon left him, he hid himself in a private Chamber in the Palace, from whence he was most ignominiously drag'd and carried naked through the Via Sacra to the Scaloe Gemonioe, where being quartered he was thrown into the River Tyber.

During this time Linus was Successor to St. Peter, though there are some who place Clemens here, and wholly leave out Linus and Cletus; who yet are sufficiently confuted not only by History, but also by the authority of S. Hierom, who tells us, that Clemens was the fourth Bishop of Rome after Peter, for Linus was accounted the second, and Cletus the third, notwithstanding that most of the Romans immediately after Peter reckon Clemens. To whom, though St. Peter had as it were by Will bequeath'd the Right of Succession, yet his modesty was so great that he compelled Linus and Cletus to take upon them the Pontifical Dignity before him, lest any ambition of preheminence might be of ill example to after Ages. This Linus by Commission from St. Peter, ordained that no Woman should enter the Church but with her Head veiled. More∣over, at two Ordinations which he held in the City, he made eighteen Presbyters and eleven Bishops. He wrote also the Memoirs of St. Peter, and particularly the Contention he had with Sinion Magus. In his time lived Philo, a Jew, by Nation of Alexandria, in whose Writings there is* 1.12 so much Wit and Judgment, that, from the likeness there appears be∣tween them, he deserv'd to have it proverbially said, Either Plato does Philonize, or Philo does Platonize. By his Learning and Eloquence he corrected the rashness of Appion, who had been sent Ambassa∣dour from the Alexandrians with Complaints against the Jews. While he was at Rome, in Claudius his time, he contracted an acquaintance with St. Peter, and thereupon wrote several things in praise of the Christians. Josephus also, the son of Matathias, a Priest at Hierusa∣lem,* 1.13 being taken Prisoner by Vespasian, and committed to the custody of his son Titus till that City was taken, coming to Rome during the Pontificate of Linus, presented to the Father and the Son seven Books of the Jewish War, which were laid up in the publick Library, and the Author himself, as a reward for that performance, had most deserved∣ly a Statue erected to him. He wrote likewise twenty four other Books of Antiquities, from the beginning of the World to the fourteenth year of the Emperour Domitian. As for Linus himself, though he had gain'd a

mighty reputation by the sanctity of his Life, by his Power of casting out Devils and raising the Dead, yet was he put to Death by Saturninus the Consul, whose very Daughter he had dispossess'd; and was buried in the Vatican near the Body of St. Peter, on the twenty first day of September, when he had sat in the Pontifical See eleven years, three months, and twelve days. There are some who affirm that Gre∣gory Bishop of Ostia, did, according to a Vow which he had made, re∣move the Body of this holy Bishop to that place, and solemnly interr it in the Church of St. Laurence.

S. CLETUS.

CLETUS, born in Rome in the Vicopatrician* 1.14 Region, Son of Aemilianus, through the persuasion of Clemens, unwillingly took upon him the burden of the Pontificate, though for his Learning, Life and Quality he was a Person of very great esteem and Authority among all that knew him. He lived in the time of Vespa∣sian and Titus, from the seventh Consulship of Vespasian, and the fifth of Domitian, to Domitian and Rufus Coss. according to Damasus.

Vespasian, as I said before, succeeding Vitellius, committed the ma∣nagement* 1.15 of the Jewish War, which had been carrying on two years before, to his Son Titus, which he within two years after, with great resolution finished. For all Judoea being conquer'd, the City Hierusalem destroyed, and the Temple levelled to the ground, it is reported that no less than six hundred thousand Jews were slain; nay Josephus a Jew, who was a Captive in that War, and had his life given him because he foretold the death of Nero, and that Vespasian should in a short time be Emperor, relates that eleven hundred thousand perished therein by sword and fa∣mine, and that a hundred thousand were taken Prisoners, and publickly exposed to sale. Nor will it seem improbable, if we consider that he tells us this happened at the time of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when they came from all parts of Judoea to Jerusalem, as into a publick Prison; and especially on the day of the Passeover, upon which they crucified Christ: being now to undergo the deserved punishment, both of their frequent revolts from the Roman Government; and also of their villany and perfidiousness in putting to death the innocent Jesus. Up∣on this Victory over the Jews, the Father and Son were honoured with a Triumph, both riding in the same Chariot, and Domitian upon a white Horse following them. The Monuments of this Triumph remain still in the Via Nova, where are to be seen engraven the Candesticks and the Tables of the old Law that were taken out of the Temple and trium∣phantly brought away. Yet Vespasian exercised so much humanity to∣wards the Jews, even when they were conquered, that for all those whom he found among them remaining of the House of David, as being of Royal descent, he had a very good esteem. And indeed he always used his Power with great Moderation, being of so mild and merciful a Temper, as to discharge even Traytors with no other than a verbal Correction, and to slight the Discourses of insolent and talkative people,

and in general to be forgetful of Faults and Injuries. He was look'd up∣on as too much enclin'd to Avarice; and yet he used no oppression for the getting of Money, and what he had he employed in Bounty and Magnificence. For he both finish'd the Temple of Peace adjoyning to the Forum, that had been begun by Claudius; and began that Amphi∣theatre, a part of which is yet to be seen with admiration. He had so great an opinion of the Bravery and Merit of his Son Titus, that upon occasion of certain tumults, rais'd by some ambitious men who aspir'd to the Em∣pire, he said publickly, That either his Son, or no man, would be his Succes∣sor in the Empire. And good ground he had to say so, for that Titus, both* 1.16 for his Courage and Integrity was accounted the Darling and Delight of Mankind. He was endued with an Eloquence excellency suited to the times of Peace, and with a Courage to those of War; he was very mer∣ciful to Offenders, and so kind and bountiful to all, that he never de∣nied any man any thing. Upon which occasion when some of his Friends took the liberty to find fault with him as too profuse; he told them, It was not fit that any man should depart sad out of the presence of a Prince. And remembring at a certain time that he had not con∣ferr'd any benefit in a whole day, he thereupon cried out to those about him, My Friends, I have lost a Day. Never any Emperour was superiour to him in Magnificence; the Amphitheatre, together with the Baths near adjoyning, being perfectly compleated and dedicated, and an Hunting of five thousand wild Beasts exhibited by him. He recall'd from Exile Mursonius Rufus a famous Philosopher, and was much pleased with the conversation of Asconius Poedianus a most learned man. He died in the second year of his Empire, and was carried to his Sepulchre with so great and universal a lamentation, as if every man had lost a Father.

There are some who write that Cletus succeeded Linus in the second year of Vespasian, who held the Empire ten years. Whether that were so or no, 'tis certain that Cletus was a most holy and good man, and that he left nothing undone that might contribute to the enlargement and in∣crease of the Church of God. In his time lived Luke, a Physitian of An∣tioch,* 1.17 one extraordinarily well skilled in the Greek Language, a follower of S. Paul the Apostle, and his constant attendant and Companion in his Travels. He pen'd the Gospel, which is commended by S. Paul, and which S. Paul for a good reason calls his Gospel. He wrote also the Acts of the Apostles, being himself an Eye-witness of them. He lived eighty four years, was married in Bithynia, and buried at Constantinople, whither his bones, together with those of Andrew the Apostle, were in the tenth year of Constantius, conveyed out of Achaia. At the same time like∣wise Philip returning out of Scythia, which by his Example and* 1.18 Preaching he had kept stedfast in the faith for twenty years together, into Asia, died at Jerusalem. As for Cletus himself, having setled the Church as well as the Times would bear, and ordain'd according to St. Peter's command twenty five Presbyters, he was crown'd with Martyr∣dom in the Reign of Domitian, and buried near the body of S. Peter in the Vatican, April 27. There were many other Martyrs about the same time, among whom is reckoned Flavia Domicilla, Sisters Daughter to Flavius Clemens the Consul who was banish'd into the Island Pontia for the profession of Christianity. Cletus sate in the Chair twelve years,

one month, eleven days; and by his Death the See was vacant twenty days.

S. CLEMENS.

CLEMENS, born in Rome, in the Region of Mons Coelius, his Fathers name Faustinus, lived in the time of Titus his Succes∣sor Domitian,

Who was more like to Nero or Caligula than to his Father Vespasian or* 1.19 his Brother; yet at the beginning of his Empire he kept within some tolerable bounds, but soon after he broke out into very great enormi∣ties of Lust, Idleness, Rage and Cruelty; crimes which brought upon him so great an Odium, as almost quite defac'd the Memory and Re∣nown of his Father and his Brother. Many of the Nobility he put to death, whereof most were by his order assassined in the places whither he had banish'd them. He was so industriously idle as to spend the time of his privacy and retirement in killing Flies with a Bodkin; for which reason when a certain person coming out of his Presence was asked, whe∣ther any one were with Coesar, he answer'd merrily, No, not so much as a Fly. He arriv'd to such an heighth of Folly and arrogance, as to ex∣pect divine Honours, and command that in all Discourses and Writings concerning him, the Title of Lord and God should be given him. He was the second from Nero that rais'd a Persecution against the Christians. Moreover, he gave order that all those of the Linage of David among the Jews, should by Interrogatories and racking them to Confession be diligently search'd after, and being found utterly destroy'd and extin guish'd. In the end, the divine Vengeance overtaking him, he was in the fifteenth year of his Empire stab'd to death in the Palace by his own servants. His Body was carried out by the common Bearers and inglo∣riously buried by Philix at her Countrey-house in the Via Latina.

Clemens was now (as I have said) the fourth Bishop of Rome from S. Peter, Linus being accounted the second and Cletus the third, though the Latins generally reckon Clemens next after Peter; and that he was design'd so appears from his own Letter to James Bishop of Jerusalem, wherein he gives him the following account of that matter; Simon Peter being apprehensive of his approaching Death, in the presence of several Bre∣thren, taking hold of my hand, This, says he, is the person, whom having been my assistant in all affairs since I came to Rome, I constitute Bishop of that City; and when I shewed my willingness eo decline so great a Burden, he exposulated with me in this manner, Wilt thou consult only thine own convenience; and deny thy assistance to the poor fluctuating Church of God when it is in thy power to steer it? But he being a person of wonderful modesty, did freely prefer Linus and Cletus to that dignity before him∣self undertook it. He wrote in the name of the Roman Church a very useful Epistle to the Corinthians, not differing in style from that of the Hebrews, which is said to be St. Pauls. This Epistle was formerly read publickly in several Churches: there is another bearing his name which the Ancients did not thing authentick; and Eufebius in the third Book

of his History, does find fault with a long Disputation between St. Peter and Appion, said to be written by our Clement, 'Tis certain that John* 1.20 the Apostle, son of Zebedee and Brother of James lived till this time, who was the last Penman of the Gospel, and confirmed what had been before written by Matthew, Mark and Luke. The reason why he wrote last is said to be, that he might confront and defeat the Heresie of the Ebionites, who impudently denied Christ to have had a being before his Birth of the Blessed Virgin; and accordingly we find him very particu∣lar in demonstrating the Divinity of our Saviour. He wrote several other things, and among the rest his Revelation, during his banishment into the Island Patmos by Domitian; who being afterwards slain and his Acts for their excessive severity rescinded by the Senate, he returned to Ephesus in the time of Nerva; where he continued till the Reign of Trajan, supporting the Churches of Asia by his Counsel and Writings, till at last being worn out with Age he rested in the Lord the sixty eighth year after the Passion of Christ. Our Clemens by his Piety, Reli∣gion and Learning made daily many Proselytes to Christianity; where∣upon P. Tarquinius the High Priest, and Mamertinus the City Praefect stir'd up the Emperour against the Christians; at whose command Cle∣ment was banish'd to an Island, where he found near two thousand Chri∣stians condemn'd to hew Marble in the Quarries. In this Island there being at that time a great scarcity of water, which they were forced to fetch at six miles distance, Clement going going to the top of a little Hill hard by, sees there a Lamb, under whose right foot flowed miraculously a plen∣tiful Spring, with which all the Islanders were refresh'd, and many of them thereupon converted to the Christian faith. At which Trajan be∣ing enraged, sent some of his Guards, who threw Clement into the Sea, with an Anchor tied about his neck. But his blessed Body was not long af∣ter cast on the shore, and being buried at the place where this miraculous fountain had sprung up, a Temple was built over it. This is said to have happened September the fourteenth in the third year of the Emperor Tra∣jan. He was in the Chair nine years, two months, and ten days; he divi∣ded the Wards of the City among seven Notaries, who were to register the Acts of the Martyrs; and at the Ordinations which he held according to Custom in the Month of December, he made ten Presbyters, two Deacons, and fifteen Bishops. By his death the See was vacant two and twenty days.

S. ANACLETUS.

ANACLETUS, an Athenian, son of Antiochus, was successor to Clement in the time of Trajanus.

This Trajans Predecessor Nerva Cocceius, was an excellent* 1.21 person both in his private and publick capacity, just and equal in all his proceedings, and one whose Government was very advantageous to the Republick. Through his procurement the Acts of Domitian being re∣peal'd by Decree of the Senate, multitudes thereupon return'd from banish∣ment, and several by his bounty had the Goods of which they had be∣fore been plundered, restor'd to them. But being now very old, and

drawing near to the time of his Death, out of his care of the Publick Weal, he adopted Trajan, and then died in the sixteenth Month of his Reign, and of his Age the seventy second year.

Trajan himself, a Spaniard, surnamed Ulpius Crinitus, coming to the* 1.22 Empire surpassed the best of Princes in in the glory of his Arms, the the Goodness of his Temper, and the moderation of his Government. He extended the bounds of the Empire far and wide, reduced that part of Getmany beyond the Rhine to its former state, subdued Dacia, and several other Nations beyond the Danow; recovered Parthia; gave a King to the Albanians; made Provinces beyond Euphrates and Tygris; overcame and kept Armenia, Assyria, Mesopotamia, Seleucia, Ctesiphon and Babylon; and proceeded as far as the borders of India, and the Red Sea, where he left a Fleet to infest those Borders.

The Ecclesiastical Laws and Constitutions of Anacletus were as fol∣loweth; viz. That no Prelate or other Clerk should suffer his beard or hair to grow long; that no Bishop should be ordained by less than three other Bishops; that the Clergy should be admitted into holy Orders in publick only; and that all the faithful should after Consecration com∣municate or be put out of the Church. By this means the Christian interest encreas'd, that Trajan fearing lest the Roman State might be impaired thereby, gave allowance to a third Persecution of the Chri∣stians, in which multitudes were put to Death, and particularly Igna∣tius* 1.23 the third Bishop of the Church of Antioch after St. Peter. Who being taken and condemn'd to suffer by wild beasts, as he was carried to Rome by his Guards, whom he called his Ten Leopards, he all along in his passage encourag'd and confirm'd the Christians, by Discourse with some, and by Epistle to others; declaring his readiness to suffer in this manner; Come Cross, come Beasts, come Wrack, come the torture of my whole body, and the torments of the Devil upon me, so I may enjoy Christ. And upon the occasion of his hearing the Lions roar, Corn, says he, I am, let me be ground by the teeth of these beasts, that I may be found fine bread. He died in Trajan's eleventh year, and his bones were afterwards buried in the Suburbs of Antioch. But Plinius Secundus, who was then Governour of that Province, being moved with compassion to see so many executed, wrote to the Emperour Trajan, informing him that incredible numbers of men were daily put to Death, who were per∣sons of an unblameable life, and who in no point transgressed the Roman Laws, save only that before day-break, they would sing Hymns to Christ their God, but that Adulteries and the like Crimes were disal∣lowed and abominated by them. Hereupon Trajan gave order, that the Magistrates should not make search after the Christians, but only punish those who voluntarily offered themselves. During this Persecution Simeon, the kinsman of our Lord, son of Cleophas and Bishop of Jerusalem, was crucified in the hundred and twentieth year of his Age. These things which we have spoken were acted in the time of this Bishop and not of Cletus, as Eusebius in the third book of his History would have it; for Damasus makes out that Cletus and Anacletus differed both as to their Countrey and manner of Death, Cletus being a Roman and suffering under Domitian, but Anacletus and Athenian and suffering under Trajan. Our Anacletus having erected an Oratory to St. Peter, and assigned places of burial for the Martyrs distinct from those of other men, and

at one Decembrian Ordination made five Presbyters, three Deacons, and six Bishops; upon his Martyrdom the See was vacant thirteen days, after he had sat in it nine years, two months and ten days.

S. EUARISTUS.

EUARISTUS, by birth a Grecian, his Father a Jew, named Juda, of the City of Bethleem, lived in the time of Trajan. A Prince whom I take delight to mention, because of his sin∣gular* 1.24 Justice and Humanity. Who behav'd himself so acceptably to∣wards all men, that as far as the times of Justinian the usual acclamation of the People at the Creation of an Emperour was this, Let him be more prosperous than Augustus and better than Trajan. He was of a temper so courteous and condescending in visiting the Sick, in saluting his Friends, in keeping Festivals, and being present at Collations to which he was invited, that the fault which some found with him for that very reason, gave the occasion of that worthy noble saying of his, That a Prince ought to be such to his Subjects, as he desires they should be to him. He impartially distributed Honours, Riches, and Rewards to all that deserved well; never oppress'd any man to fill his own Exchequer; granted advantageous immunities to poor Cities; repaired the High∣ways, and made the passages of Rivers secure; made a high large Mole at the Haven of Ancona, to break the violence of the Waves; and in∣deed neither acted nor designed any thing in his whole life but what tended to the publick Good. Having gain'd such Renown both in War and in Peace, he died of a Flux, at Seleucia a City of Isauria, in the eighteenth year and sixth month of his Reign. His bones were af∣terward convey'd to Rome, and there buried in an Urn of Gold, in the Forum which himself had built, under the winding Pillar of an hundred forty foot high, which is yet to beseen.

But we return to Euaristus, who, as Damasus tells us, divided the City of Rome among the Presbyters into Parishes; ordained that seven Dea∣cons should attend the Bishop when ever he preached to be witnesses of the truth of his Doctrine; and moreover that the accusation of a Lay∣man should not be admitted against a Bishop. He held Decembrian Ordinations, at which he made six Presbyters, two Deacons and five Bishops. In his time lived Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis, an Auditor of* 1.25 John, a person who took not so much delight in the Records of the an∣cient Disciples of our Lord, as in the living Conversation of Aristion and John the Elder. And it is manifest from the order he observes in setting down the names of these two after the mention of almost all the Apostles, that the John whom he places among the Apostles, was a distinct Person from this John the Aged, whom hereckons after Aristion. He was certain∣ly a very learned man, and followed by many, as particularly Irenaeus, Apollinarius, Tertullian, Victorinus Pictaviensis, and Lactantius Firmia∣nus. Now also Quadratus, a Disciple of the Apostles, did by his Indu∣stry* 1.26 and Courage support the Church of God as much as might be in

such dangerous times. For when Adrian, who now passed the Winter at Athens, and was admitted a Priest to the Goddess Eleusina, began to persecute the Christians, Quadratus with his own hand presented to him a very honest and rational Book of the Excellency of the Christian Religion. The like did Aristides, and Athenian Philosopher, converted to* 1.27 Christianity; who at the same time with Quadratus, presented to Adrian a Treatise, containing an account of our Religion. The effect of which Apologeticks was, that Adrian being convinc'd of the injustice of put∣ting the Christians to death without their being heard, wrote to Minu∣tius Fundanus the Proconsul of Asia, ordering that no Christian should be executed, unless his guilt were proved by a credible Witness. As for our Euaristus, some tell us that he was martyr'd in the last year of Tra∣jan; but they are more in the right, who are of opinion that he suffered under Adrian before his being reconciled to the Christians. For he was in the Chair nine years, ten months, two days, and was buried in the Vatican, near the body of S. Peter, October the twenty seventh. The See was then vacant nineteen days.

S. ALEXANDER I.

ALEXANDER, a Roman, Son of Alexander, a Person of Wis∣dom and Gravity far exceeding his years, held the Pontificate in the time of Aelius Adrianus.

This Adrian, who was Son to Trajan's Cosin-German, at his first com∣ing* 1.28 to the Empire proved an Enemy to the Christians, but afterwards (as shall be said anon) upon knowledg of their Religion and Devotion, became very kind and propitious to them. From the great benefits which the Roman State receiv'd by his Government, he was called the Father of his Countrey, and his Wife had the Title of Augusta. He was excel∣lently well skil'd both in the Roman and Greek Languages, made many Laws, created a goodly Library at Athens, being mightily pleased with the Learning and Conversation of Plutarch, Sixtus, Agathocles and Oeno∣maus the Philosopher; and at the request of the Athenians compiled Laws for them according to the Model of Draco and Solen. Being ad∣mitted to the Eleusinian Mysteries, he was very bountiful to the Ci∣tizens of Athens, and repair'd their bridg broken down by an Innunda∣tion of the River Cephysus. He built also a Bridg at Rome, called by his own name, remaining to this day, and a stately Sepulchre in the Vati∣can near the River Tyber, which the Popes now make use of for a Cita∣del. Moreover, he made that most sumptuous and stately Villa, now called Old Tiber, to the several parts of which he gave the names of Pro∣vinces, and the most celebrated parts of the World. Coming to Pelusi∣um, he was at great expence in adorning Pompey's Tomb, and in Britain he built a Wall of sixty miles to sever the Romans from the Natives. And because Septicius Clarus the Captain of his Guards, and Suetonius Tranquillus his Secretary, with several others, had without his leave conversed somewhat more familiarly with his Empress Sabina than the Reverence of a Court admitted of, he remov'd them all and put others into their Offices.

But to return to our Alexander, He was the first who for the remem∣brance of Christs Passion at the Communion added those words, Qui pridie quam pateretur, to the Clause Hoc est corpus meum. He ordained likewise that the Holy Water (as it is called) mix'd with Salt and con∣secrated by Prayer, should be kept in Churches and in private Houses, as a guard against evil Spirits. Moreover, he instituted that Water should be mingled with the Wine, at the consecration of the Elements, to sig∣nifie the Union of Christ with his Church; and that the Host should not be of leavened bread as was formerly used, but of unleavened only, as being the more pure, and by which all occasion of cavilling would be taken away from the Ebionite Hereticks, who were very much ad∣dicted to Judaism. In his time lived Agrippa Castor, who learnedly and* 1.29 effectually confuted the books which Basilides the Heretick wrote a∣gainst* 1.30 the Holy Gospel; exposing to derision his Prophets Barcabas and Barthecab, and his great God Abraxas, names invented by him to amuse and terrifie the ignorant. This Basilides died at that time when the Christians were very much perfecuted and tormented by Cochebas, the Head of the Jewish Faction. But Adrian soon repress'd the pertinacy of this Rebel and the whole Nation of the Jews, by an almost incre∣dible slaughter of them; and then commanded that no Jew should be suffered to enter Jerusalem, permitting only Christians to inhabit that City, and having repaired the Walls and buildings of it, he called it af∣ter his own name Aelia; Marcus being after the expulsion of the Jews, chosen the first Gentile Bishop of it. In the time of this Bishop also Sapphira of Antioch, and Sabina a Roman Lady suffer'd martyrdom for the faith of Christ; and Favorinus, Palaemon, Herodes Atheniensis and Marcus Byzantius were famous Rhetoricians. Our Alexander having at three Decembrian Ordinations made five Presbyters, three Deacons, five Bishops, was, together with his Deacons Euentius and Theodulus, crowned with Martyrdom, on the third day of May, and buried in the Via Nomentana, where he suffered, seven miles from the City. He was in the Chair ten years, seven months, two days. After his Death the See was vacant twenty five days.

S. SIXTUS I.

SIXTUS a Roman, the Son of Pastor, or as others will have it, of Helvidius, held the Pontificate in the time of Adrian, to the Consulship of Verus and Anniculus.

Which Adrian is reckoned in the number of the good Emperours, upon the account of his Liberality, Splendour, Magnificence and Clemency; an eminent instance of the last of which good qualities was this, That when a Servant run madly upon him with his Sword, he took no farther notice of the Action than to order him a Physician to cure his Phrenzy. He visited the Sick twice or thrice in a day; at his own charge he repair'd Alexandria when it had been ruined by the Romans; he rebuilt the Pantheon in Rome, and made Aromatick Pre∣sents

to the People. Being at the point of Death, he is said to have ut∣tered these Verses;

Animula, vagula, blandula, Hospes, comesque corporis, Quae nunc abibis in loca, Pallidula, rigida, nudula, Nec, ut soles, dabis, jocos.

He died of a Dropsy in the two and twentieth year of his Reign, and was buried at Puteoli in Cicero's Villa.

Sixtus out of his care of the Church, ordained, that the Elements and Vessels of the Altar should not be touched by any but the Mini∣sters, but especially not by Women; and that the Corporal, as it is cal∣led, should be made of Linnen-cloth only, and that of the finest sort. That no Bishop who had been cited to appear before the Apostolick See, should at his return be received by his Flock, unless he brought with him Letters Communicatory to the People. At the Celebration he instituted the Hymn, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth. Anciently the Office of the Communion was performed in a plain manner, and unclog'd with humane mixtures. St. Peter after Consecration used the Paternoster; James Bishop of Jerusalem added some Rites, Bazil more, and others more still. For Celestine brought in the Introitus of the Mass, Gregory the Kyrie Eleyson, Telesphorus The Glory be to God on High, Gelasius the first the Collects, and Hierom the Epistle and Gospel. The Alelujah was taken from the Church of Jerusalem, the Creed was instituted by the Council of Nice, Pelagius introduced the Comme∣moration of the Dead, Leo the third the Incense, Innocent the first the Kiss of Peace, and Sergius ordered the Agnus Dei to be sung. During the time of Sixtus the Persecution being so sharp, that few had courage enough to own the Profession of Christianity, and the Christian Gauls desiring a Bishop, to them he sends Peregrine a Citizen of Rome, who having confirmed them in the Faith, at his return suffered Martyrdom in the Via Appia, at the place where Christ appeared to Peter as he was leaving the City. His body was by the faithful carried into the Vati∣can, and buried near S. Peter. Aquila also by birth a Jew of Pontus, who with his Wife Priscilla had been banish'd by the Edict of Claudius, is said by some to have lived till this time; he was the second Translatour of the Old Testament, after the Seventy who lived in the time of Pto∣lomey Philadelphus. As for Sixtus, having at three Decembrian Ordina∣tions, made eleven Presbyters, eleven Deacons, and four Bishops, he was crowned with Martyrdom, and buried in the Vatican near St. Peter, having been in the Chair ten years, three months, and one and twenty days. Upon his Death the See was vacant only two days.

S. TELESPHORUS.

TELEPHORUS, a Grecian, the Son of an Anchorete, lived in the time of Antoninus Pius.* 1.31

This Emperour was by his Fathers side a Cisalpine Gaul, and to∣gether with his Sons Aurelius and Verus, he ruled twenty two years and three months with so much moderation and Clemency that he deserved∣ly gain'd the name of Pius, and Father of his Countrey. He was never severe or rigorous towards any man in the recovery of his own private Debts, or the exaction of publick Taxes, but would sometimes wholly remit them by burning the Bonds of his Debtors. What shall I need say more of this Prince, who in the opinion of all good men was for Religion, Devotion, Humanity, Clemency, Justice, and Modesty equal to Numa Pompilius himself. When the River Tiber had by an inunda∣tion much impaired many private and publick buildings, he was at vast expence to assist the Citizens in restoring the City to its former state again. Moreover, it was he who carried on those prodigious Works which appear to this day, for improving the Havens of Tarracina and Cajeta; and I believe that the famous winding Pillar, from which the principal Ward of the City is denominated, was built at his charge.

As for our Telesphorus, he ordained that a Quadragesimal Fast should be observed before Easter; and that on the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord there should be three Masses; one at Midnight, at which time Christ was born in Bethelehem, another at break of Day when he was discovered to the Shepherds, the third at that hour wherein the light of Truth and our Redemption shone in the World (i. e. when our Sa∣viour was crucified) whereas at other times the celebration of the Mass was forbidden till the third hour, or between the hours of nine and twelve a Clock, the time when, as St. Mark tells us, he was fastned to the Cross. He also appointed that the Hymn, Glory be to God on High,* 1.32 should be sung before the Sacrifice. In his time Justinus, a Philosopher of Neapolis a City of Palestine, labour'd successfully in the defending Christianity; presented to Antoninus and his Sons a book which he had written against the Gentiles; and held a Dialogue with Tryphon a prin∣cipal Jew. He wrote also very warmly against Marcion, who adhering to the Heresie of Cerdo, affirmed that there were two Gods, the one good, the other just, as two contrary principles of Creation and Good∣ness. He opposed likewise Crescens the Cynick, as a person glutto∣nous, fearful of Death, given over to Luxury and lust, and a blasphemer of Christ. But being at length by this mans treacherous practices be∣tray'd, he suffered in the cause of Christianity Eusebius writing of this Cynick, allows him only to have been a vain-glorious Pretender, but not a Philosopher. At the same time the Valentinian Hereticks prevail'd, who were the followers of one Valentinus a Platonist; and held that Christ took nothing of the body of the Virgin, but passed clean through her, as through a Pipe. Now also Photinus Bishop of Lyons, a man of singular Learning and Piety, as Isidore tells us, suffered Martyrdom with great resolution, being ninety years old. Telesphorus having at four

Decembrian Ordinations, made fifteen Presbyters, eight Deacons, thir∣teen Bishops, died a Martyr, and was buried in the Vatican near Saint Peter. He was in the Chair eleven years, three months, twenty two days. By his Death the See was vacant seven days.

S. HYGINUS.

HYGINUS an Athenian, Son of a Philosopher, succeeded Te∣lesphorus, during the Empire of Antoninus Pius,

W••••••se extraordinary merit compels me to add something far∣ther* 1.33 in his praise, 〈…〉〈…〉 I come to give an account of Hyginus. He was so far from the vanity of valuing himself upon the glory of his Arms, that he made it his business rather to defend the Provinces of the Empire, than to encrease them; and had often that saying of Scipio in his mouth, that he had rather save one Citizen than destroy a thou∣sand Enemies: being herein of a quite contrary temper to that of Do∣mitian, who from a consciousness of his own cruelty did so hate and fear a multitude, that he would expose the Roman Army to the fury of its Enemies, on purpose that it might return home thinner and less formidable. Moreover, Pius was so famous for his Justice, that seve∣ral Princes and Nations did at his Command cease their Hostilities, making him the Arbitratour of their differences, and standing to his determination as to the Justice of their Pretensions. For these admi∣rable qualities, the Romans after his much lamented death, in honor to his memory, appointed Cirque-shews, built a Temple, and 〈…〉〈…〉 a Flamen, with an Order, called by his name.

At this time Hyginus prudently setled and confirm'd the several Or∣ders and Degrees of the Clergy; and ordain'd the Solemn Consecration of Churches, the number of which he would not have encreas'd or diminish'd without leave of the Metropolitan or Bishop. He forbad also that the Timber or other Materials prepared for the building any Church, should be converted to prophane uses; yet allowing that with the Bishop's consent, they might be made use of towards the erecting any other Church or Religious House. He likewise ordained that at least one Godfather or one Godmother should be present at Baptism; and that no Metropolitan should condemn or censure any Bishop of his Province, until the cause were first heard and discussed by the other Bishops of the Province; though some make this latter an Institution of Pelagius, not Hyginus. In his time lived Polycarp, a Disciple of St.* 1.34 John the Apostle, and by him made Bishop of Smyrna; the most cele∣brated man for Religion and learning in all Asia. He coming to Rome, reduc'd to the Orthodox Faith multitudes who had been seduc'd into the Errours of Marcion and Valentinus; the former of which by chance meeting him, and asking whether he knew him; Polycarp answered, that he knew him to be the first-born of the Devil. For this Heretick denied the Father of our blessed Saviour to be God the Creatour, who by his Son made the World. But afterwards in the time of M. Antoninus, and L. Aurclius Commodus, who raised the fourth Persecution, Poly∣carp

was burnt at Smyrna by order of the Proconsul. Melito also an Asian, Bishop of Sardis, and a Disciple of Fronto the Oratour, presented to M. Antoninus, a book written in desence of the Christian Doctrine. Tertullian highly extols his Parts, and says, that most of the Christians look'd upon him as a Prophet. Moreover, Theophilus Bishop of Antioch wrote a book against the Heresie of Hermogenes, who asserted an un∣created eternal matter, co-eval to God himself. As for Hyginus him∣self, having deserved well of the Church, and at three Decembrian Ordi∣nations, made fifteen Presbyters, five Deacons, six Bishops, he died, and was buried in the Vatican by S. Peter, January 11. He was in the Chair four years, three months, four days. The See was then vacant four days.

S. PIUS I.

PIUS, an Italian of Aquileia, son of Ruffinus, lived to the time of M. Antoninus Verus, who together with his Brother L. Au∣relius Commodus jointly exercis'd the Government nineteen years.

These two Princes undertook a War against the Parthians, and ma∣nag'd* 1.35 it with such admirable courage and success, that they had the ho∣nour of a Triumph decreed to them. But not long after Commodus dying of an Apoplexy, Antoninus was sole Emperour; a person who so excell'd in all good qualities, that it is more easie to admire than to describe him; for both because from his very youth no change of his Fortune made any alteration in his mind or his countenance, and because it is hard to determine whether the sweetness of his natural temper, or the knowledg he learnt from Cornelius Fronto, were more conspicuous in him, he deservedly gain'd the surname of Philosopher. And indeed (as Capitolinus tells us) he was often wont to use that saying of Plato, That then the World would be happy, when either Philosophers were Princes, or Princes would be Philosophers. He was so great a lover of Learning, that even when he was Emperour he would be present at the Lectures of Apollonius the Philosopher, and Sextus Plutarch's Nephew; and he set up the Statue of his Tutour Fronto in the Senate-house as a Testimony of the Honour he had for him.

At this time Pius maintain'd a strict friendship and familiarity with Hermes who wrote the book called Pastor; in which book he intro∣duces* 1.36 an Angel in the form of a Shepherd. who commanded him to persuade all Christians to keep the Feast of Easter on a Sunday, which Pius accordingly did. Moreover, he ordained that every Convert from the Cerinthian Heresie should at his reception into the Church be bap∣tized. At the request of Praxedes a devout Woman, he dedicated a Church at the Baths of Novatus to her Sister S. Pudentiana; to which himself made several donations, oftentimes celebrated Mass in it, and built a Font which he blessed and consecrated, and at which he baptized a great number of Proselytes. He also appointed a punishment upon those who were negligent in handling the body and blood of Christ. If through the Priests carelesness any of the Cup had fallen upon the

ground, he was to undergo a Penance of forty days; if it fell upon the Altar, of three days; if upon the Altar-cloth, of four days; it upon any other Cloth, of nine days. Whithersoever it fell, he was to lick it up if he could, if not, the board or stone to be wash'd or scraped, and what of it could be recovered thereby either burnt or laid up in the Sacrary. In his time Apollinaris Bishop of Hierapolis in Asia was much esteem'd,* 1.37 who wrote an excellent Apology for Christianity, and presented it to Antoninus the second. He wrote also against the Montanists, who with their two fanatick Prophetesses Priscillia and Maximilla, pretended that the descent of the Holy Ghost was not upon the Apostles, but them∣selves; an opinion which they had learn'd from their Leader Montanus. At this time also the learned Tatianus was in good reputation, so long* 1.38 as he swerved not from the Doctrine of his Master Justin Martyr; but afterwards being puff'd up with a great conceit of himself, he became the Author of a new Heresie, which being propagated by one Severus, the followers of it were from him called Severians. They drank no Wine, ate no Flesh, rejected the Old Testament, and believed not the Resurrection. Moreover, Philip Bishop of Crete now published an ex∣cellent book against Marcion and his followers, whose Errours were the same with those of Cerdo. Musanus also wrote a book against the He∣reticks called Encratitoe, or the Abstemious, who agreed in opinion with the Severians, looking upon all carnal copulation as filthy and unclean, and condemning those Meats which God hath given for the use of mankind. But to return to Pius, having at five Decembrian Ordinati∣ons, made nineteen Presbyters, twenty one Deacons, ten Bishops, he died and was buried in the Vatican near S. Peter, July 11. He was in the Chair eleven years, four months, three days; and by his death the See was vacant thirteen days.

S. ANICETUS.

ANICETUS, a Syrian, the son of one John de Vicomurco, lived in the time of Antoninus Verus, concerning whom we have spoken in the Life of Pius.

Which Antoninus though he were a great Phisopher, yet neglected not the pursuit of Military glory. For together with his Son Commodus Antoni∣nus, he did with great courage and success gain a Victory and a Triumph over the Germans, Marcomanni, Quadi, and Sarmatoe. At his first enter∣prizing this War, his Exchequer being so low that he had not money to pay his Soldiers, he expos'd to publick sale in the Forum Trajani all the furniture of his Palace, and all the Jewels of his Empress, But after∣wards returning home victoriously, to those who were willing to re∣store the Goods they had bought, he refunded what they paid for them; but used no force against those who refus'd to relinquish their bargains. Upon this Victory, he was very liberal to all who had done any good service to the publick; to some Provinces he remitted their accustomed Tribute; he caused to be publickly burnt in the Forum the Writings by which any man was made a Debtor to the Exchequer; and by new

Constitutions moderated the severity of the old Laws. By this means he became so much the darling of the People, that any man had a par∣ticular brand of infamy set upon him, who had not Antoninus his Ef∣figies in his House.

Anicetus, that the reputation of the Church might not suffer by the extravagancy of a few men, ordained that no Clergyman should upon any pretence wear long hair; and that no Bishop should be consecrated by fewer than three of the same Order (a Constitution which was af∣terwards confirmed by the Council of Nice;) and that at the Consecra∣tion of a Metropolitan all the Bishops of the Province should be present. Moreover he ordained (as Ptolomy tells us) that no Bishop should im∣plead his Metropolitan but before the Primate or the See Apostolick; (this being also a Constitution which was afterwards confirm'd by the Council of Nice, and several succeeding Bishops of Rome;) and that all Arch-bishops should not be called Primates, but only those of them who have a particular title to that denomination; the Primates having also the 〈…〉〈…〉 of Patriarchs, whereas the others are simply Arch-bishops* 1.39 or Metropolitans. In his time Egestippus was a great propugner of the Christian 〈…〉〈…〉, who, as an imitator of their manner of speaking, of whose lives he had been a diligent observer, in a very plain unaffected style wrote a History of Ecclesiastical affairs from the Passion of our Lord to the Age in which he lived. He says of himself that he came to Rome in the time of Anicetus, whom he calls the tenth Bishop from St. Peter, and that he staid there to the time of Ele〈7 letters〉〈7 letters〉, who had been Deacon to Anicetus. He inveighed much against Idolators for building sumptuous Monuments and Temples to the Dead; as particu∣larly Adrian the Emperour, who in honour to his darling Antinous, had instituted solemn Games and Prizes at the City which he built and cal∣led by his name Antinoe, and also erected a Temple and appointed priests for his Worship. Some say that Dionysius lived in the Pontificat of Anicetus but Writers are in this place very confused in their Chro∣nology, some placing Pius first, others Anicetus, and so they are in their 〈…〉〈…〉 too. However, in an History of things so remote, and of which through the negligence of the Ancients we have so slender an ac∣count, it will be better to say something of the matters themselves, though it be some time before or after they were transacted, than alto∣gether to pass them by in silence. As for Anicetus, having at five De∣cembrian Ordinations made nineteen Presbyters, four Deacons, nine Bi∣shops, he received a Crown of Martyrdom, and was buried in the Sepulchre of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Via Appia, April the seventeenth. He was in the Chair eleven years, four months and three days, and by his Death the See was vacant seventeen days.

S. SOTER

SOTER, a Campanian of Fundi, Son of Concordius, lived in the time of L. Antoninus Commodus.

This Commodus was, (as Lampridius plays upon his name)* 1.40 very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and hurtful to all his Subjects; being in nothing like his Father, save that he also, thanks to the Christian Soldiers for it, fought successfully against the Germans. In that War, when the Army of Commodus was in great straits for want of Water, 'tis said that at the Prayers of the Christian Legion, God supplied and refreshed the Romans with rain from Heaven, and at the same time destroyed the Germans with Thundershot. The truth of which the Emperour himself testified by his Letters. But at his return to Rome, he utterly re∣nounced all Virtue and goodness, and shamefully gave himself up to all manner of Luxury and uncleanness. He used, in imitation of Nero, to combat with the Gladiators, and oftentimes encountred with wild beasts in the Amphitheatre; many of the Senatours he put to death, and those especially whom he observed to be more conspicuous for ex∣traction or merit.

Soter diverting his mind from the contemplation of this wretched Scene of things to the care of Ecclesiastical affairs, decreed, That no Deaconess should touch the Altar-cloth, or put the Incense upon the Censer, at the time of celebration. There is extant an Epistle of his concerning that matter, written to the Bishops of Italy. He ordained likewise that no Woman should be accounted a lawful Wife, but she whom the Priest had formally blessed, and whom her Parents had with the usual Christian solemnities given to her Husband. This Constitu∣tion he made, to remove the danger and scandal that was incident to new-married persons, from the jugling Magical tricks of lewd Fel∣lows. Indeed, Gratian ascribes this Decree to Euaristus, but whose due it is I leave the Reader to judg, for it matters not much whether it be attributed to the one or the other. During the Pontificat of Soter, as Eusebius tells us, lived Dionysius Bishop of Corinth, a person of so great parts and Industry, that he instructed not only the people of his own City and Province, but also by his Epistles the Bishops of other Cities and Provinces, For being throughly acquainted with the Wri∣tings of St. Paul, he could the more easily keep others within the bounds of their duty by the Authority which his Learning and Sanctity had gained him. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also, an Asian, Scholar to Tatianus, wrote seve∣ral things in defence of our Religion; and in particular he very hand∣somly exposed Apelles the Heretick, for worshipping a God whom he* 1.41 professed he did not know; for he denied Christ to be truly a God, and affirmed him to be only in appearance a Man. Some say that the Cataphrygian Heresie was at this time set on foot by Montanus. More∣over,* 1.42 Clemens a Presbyter of Alexandria, and Master to Origen, was now a great Writer; among other things he was Author of Strom. lib. 9. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, lib. 8. and one book against the Gentiles. There are some who make Pinytus, a person of admirable Eloquence: 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a fa∣mous

Poet, who wrote the Halieutics or books concerning Fishes; and Herodian the Grammarian Contemporaries to our Bishop Soter; who having at five Decembrian Ordinations made eight Presbyters, nine Dea∣cons, eleven Bishops, he died and was buried in the Via Appia, in the Sepulchre of Calistus. He was in the Chair nine years, three months, twenty one days. And the See was vacant twenty one days.

S. ELEUTHERIUS.

ELEUTHERIUS, a Grecian of Nicopolis, Son of Habun∣dius, lived also in the Reign of L. Antoninus Commodus.

For whose flagitious Life the City of Rome smarted sorely;* 1.43 for in his time the Capitol, being fired with Lightning, together with the famous Library which had cost the Ancients so much care in colle∣cting, were consumed; nor did the Neighbouring Houses escape the same calamity. Not long after another Fire brake forth, in which the Temple of Vesta, the Palace, and a good part of the City were burnt to the ground. He was of so rash and freakish a humour, that he caused the Head of a vast Colosse to be taken off, and that of his own Statue to be placed in the room of it; and in imitation of Augustus, he would needs have a month of his own name, ordering December to be called Commodus. But these things were soon changed after his Death, and himself adjudged an Enemy to mankind, such an hatred and detestation did all men entertain of his Villanies. He was strangled in the twelfth year and seventh month of his Reign.

Eleutherius, soon after his entrance upon the Pontificate, received a* 1.44 Message from Lucius King of Britain; wherein he expressed a desire that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and his Subjects might become Christians. Hereupon Eleuthe∣rius sends Fugatius and Damianus, two very religious men, to that Island to baptize the King and his People; there were at that time in Britain twenty five Heathen Priests called Flamens, and among them three sty∣led Arch-flamens, in the place of which, as Ptolomy says, were constitu∣ted three Arch-bishops; the ancient Church being wont to fix Patriarchs there, where in the time of Gentilism Proto-flamens had been seated. Furthermore, Eleutherius ordained that no person should superstitiously abstain from any sort of meat which was commonly eaten: and that no Clergy-man should be degraded before he were legally found guilty of the Crime laid to his Charge; following herein the Example of our Saviour, who so patiently bore the fault of Judas, being not yet convicted, though really guilty, that whatsoever he acted in the mean time by virtue of his Apostleship, remained firm and valid. He also pro∣hibited the passing sentence against any person accused, unless he were pre∣sent to make his defence; which was afterwards confirmed by Damasus and the Pontifical Laws. In his Pontificate the Church enjoy'd peace and tranquility, and Christianity was wonderfully propagated in the World, but especially at Rome, where many of the best quality with their Wives and Children received the Faith and were baptized. Only Apollonius, a great Oratour, was now a Martyr, having first in the* 1.45

Senate made an excellent Speech in favour of Christianity, the doing of which was then a capital Crime. Apollonius being dead, several Here∣sies very much prevailed. For the Sect of the Marcionites was divided into several Parties; some of them owning but one Principle, or God; others two; others three; thereby utterly undermining the credit of the Prophets and other discoverers of revealed Religion. Moreover Flo∣rinus and Blastus set up new Figments against the Truth, asserting God to be the Author of all kinds of evil, in contradiction to that Text, that every thing which God made was good. Opposite to these* 1.46 were the Quotiliani, who denied God to be the author of any kind of evil, in equal contradiction to that other Text, I the Lord create evil.* 1.47 Some are of Opinion that Galen of Pergamus the famous Physician, and Julian the great Lawyer, and Fronto the Rhetorician, lived at this time; though whether they did or no, in so great a confusion of time and Story, I shall neither affirm nor deny. But I dare be confident con∣cerning Modestus and Bardesanes, the former of which wrote against Marcion, the latter against Valentinus, being now as strenuous an op∣poser, as he had been formerly a zealous follower of that Heretick. S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon the perusal of his books, translated out of the Syriack lan∣guage into Greek, affirms this Bardesanes to have been a wonderfully brisk ingenious Writer; And if, says he, there be so much smartness in the Translation, how much more shall we judg to be in the Original? As for 〈◊〉〈◊〉, having at three Decembrian Ordinations, made twelve Presbyters, eight Deacons, fifteen Bishops, he died and was buried near S. Peter in the Vatican, May 26. He was in the Chair fif∣teen years, three months, two days, and the See was vacant five days.

S. VICTOR I.

VICTOR, an Asian, Son of Felix, was, as I believe, in the time of Aelius Pertinax.

Which Aelius being seventy years of Age, was from the Of∣fice* 1.48 of City-praefect created Emperour, by a Decree of the Se∣nate. Being afterwards desired to declare his Lady Augusta, and his Son Coesar, he refused both, saying, it was enough that he himself was Em∣perour against his Will. But undergoing the reproach of that unprince∣ly Vice, Covetousnes, being so sordid as to cause the half of a Lettuce or Artichoke to be served up to his Table, he was without any oppo∣sition slain in the Palace by Didius Julianus the Lawyer, in the sixth month of his Reign. This is that Julian, who made the perpetual E∣dict,* 1.49 and who in the seventh month after his coming to the Empire was vanquished and slain in a Civil War by Severus at Pons Milvius.

Victor out of his care of the Affairs of the Church, decreed, that according to a former constitution of Eleutherius, as Damasus tells us, Easter should be kept upon the Sunday, which fell between the four∣teenth and twenty first day after the Phasis or appearance of the Moon in the first Month. Theophilus Bishop of Coesarea Palestinoe was obedi∣ent

to this Decree, and wrote against those who observed that Feast, as the Jews did their 〈◊〉〈◊〉, always upon the fourteenth day of the Moon, whatever day of the Week it happened to be. But Polycrates Bishop of Ephesus very hotly declaimed against this Constitution, stifly contend∣ing, that according to ancient Custom it ought to be celebrated pre∣cisely on that day on which the Jews kept their 〈◊〉〈◊〉. For he main∣tain'd that herein he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Example of S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Apostle and others the Ancients. We, says he, observe the exact day, neither antici∣pating nor protracting it. Thus did Philip who died at Hierapolis; thus did John who leaned on our Lords bosom; thus did Polycarp, Thraseas, Me∣lito and Narcissus Bishop of Hierusalem. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some tell us, that a Council was held in Palestine, at which were present 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Irenoeus, Narcissus, Polycarp, Bacchylus, all Bishops of great Note in Asia. But the whole matter was afterwards refer'd to the Council of Nice, in which it was decreed that Easter should be kept on the Sunday following the fourteenth day of the Moon, to avoid all appearance of Judaizing. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also ordain∣ed that in cases of necessity Proselytes might at their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be baptized in any kind of Water or at any time of the year. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Pontificate there flourished many learned men. As for instance, Appion, who wrote the Hexaëmeron, or account of the six days work of Creation; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Samosatenus, who together, with Theodotus, held our Saviour to have been a meer man; Sixtus, who wrote of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Ara∣bianus, who published several Treatises of Christian Doctrine. Now also one Judas wrote a Cronology to the tenth year of Severus the Emperor; wherein yet he is guilty of a mistake in asserting that Antichrist would come in his time; an Errour into which I suppose him to have fallen from the observation he had made of the Cruelty and other Vices of the Age, which he saw now grown to such an heighth, that he thought Almighty God could not bear with mankind any longer. By which very thing Lactantius and S. Austin themselves were after deceived. Our Victor, having first written some books concerning Religion, died and was buried near S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Vatican, whose Feast we observe on the twenty eighth of July. He was in the Chair ten years; three months, ten days, And the See was vacant twelve days.

S. ZEPHYRINUS.

ZEPHERINUS a Roman, Son of Habundius, lived in the time of Severus the Emperour.

Who being by birth an Asrican, of the Town of Leptis, up∣on* 1.50 the death of Julian succeeded in the Empire, and took the Sur∣name of Pertinax. He was first an Officer of the Exchequer, then a Colonel in the Army, till by several steps he advanced himself to the Dignity of Imperator. He was of a very frugal temper; the cruelty of his nature was heightened by the many Wars he had been engaged in; and he exercised great Valour in defending, and great care in go∣verning

his Subjects. He was eminent not only for his skill in Arms, but in Letters too, taking very much delight in the study of Philosophy. He conquer'd the Parthians and Adiabeni, and made Arabia Interior a Province of the Roman Empire. For this Atchievement he triumphed, and upon the Arch erected to him in the Capitol he was styled Parthicus Arabicus and Adiabenicus. Moreover, he adorned the City with publick buildings. For he made those 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from his own name are called the Severian Baths, and erected the famous Septizonium; that part of which noble Pile that is now remaining, hardly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 being pull'd down some years ago by order of Pope Paul the second, to make the best of the stones.

But Bishop Zephyrinus 〈◊〉〈◊〉 more intent upon Ecclesiastical than se∣cular Affairs, decreed, that every Deacon and Priest should be ordained in the presence of the Faithful both Clergy and Laity: which was af∣terwards 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Council of Chalcedon. He decreed likewise that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at the Communion should not be consecrated, as had been 〈◊〉〈◊〉 used, in a wooden Chalice, but in Glass. Though this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was altered in following times; wherein order was given that it should 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be in Wood, because of its spunginess, whereby some of 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 might soak into it; nor of Glass, because of its brittleness, and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of its being broken; nor of any ordinary course mettal by 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 the ill taste it might contract from it; but only in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Gold or Silver, or at least of Pewter; as appears in the Canons of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Councils 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and Reims. He also ordained, that all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of fourteen years of Age should communicate every year upon Easter-day, which in after-times Innocent the third extended not only to Communion, but Confession too. He commanded likewise, that no Bishop being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by his Patriarch, or Primate, or Metropoli∣tan, should have sentence pass'd against him but by the Authority of the See 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Lastly, he ordained that when the Bishop cele∣brated, all his Presbyters should be present. In his time flourished He∣raclius, who wrote a Comment upon the Apostle; Maximus who in a* 1.51 large book 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the great Controversie of this Age (viz. concerning* 1.52 the Author 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and the Original of Matter;) Candidus who com* 1.53 posed an 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and Origen, who in the tenth year of Severus* 1.54 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 being rais'd against the Christians, and his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 put to death for his Religion, whom he himself being yet a Youth, did very much confirm in his constancy and Resolution, was left with his Mother a Widow and six Brethren in a very low condition; all his Fathers Estate being confiscated, because they owned Christ to be the true God. Hereupon he was forced to teach a Gram∣mar-School to get a livelihood for himself and his Relations; and among others he had for his Scholar Plutarchus, who afterwards became a Mar∣tyr. Not long after applying himself wholly to Religion, he undertook the Office of a Catechist or Preacher. He was a person of very great parts and skil'd in all Languages and kinds of Learning. He was won∣derfully temperate and abstemious as to meat and drink and all other things; imitating the poverty of Christ, and for many years walking bare-foot; and moreover in his younger days he made himself an Ex∣ample of that passage in the Gospel, there be Eunuchs which have made* 1.55 themselves Eunuchs for the Kingdom of Heavens sake. Many were so

encouraged in Religion by his Pattern, that they did with great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 lay down their lives for Christianity, and particularly a Woman named 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who was put to death by pouring scalding Pitch up∣on her Head. As for Zephyrinus, having at four Decembrian Ordina∣tions, made thirteen Presbyters, seven Deacons, thirteen Bishops; he died in the time of Severus, and was buried in the Via Appia, not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Sepulchre of Calistus, August the 26th. He was in the Chair eight years, seven months, ten days, and the See was vacant six days.

S. CALISTUS I.

CALISTUS, an Italian of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Son of Domitius, lived in the time of Severus, an Emperour whose fortune changed with his mind;

For no sooner did he raise the fifth Persecution against the Christians,* 1.56 but he was presently exposed to a multitude of dangers, and engaged in several Wars; on the one side by Piscennius Niger who was the cause of great Commotions in Syria, on the other by Clodius Albinus, whom yet he vanquish'd with great slaughter in Gaul. But passing over from thence into Britain, being deserted of his Friends, and accompanied only with calamities, he died at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the fifth year of his Empire, leaving be∣hind him two Sons, Bassianus and Geta; the latter of which was look'd upon and put to death as a publick Enemy, both because of his abo∣minably dissolute 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but especially because he had with his own hand slain Papinian the great Asylum of the Civil Law. But Bassianus receiving from the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the name of Antoninus, became possess'd of the Empire; and took the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Caracalla from a kind of long Vests* 1.57 which he bestow'd by way of largess among the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He was of a nature more cruel than his Father; and so impotently vicious, thatthere was no kind of Villany which he was not guilty of. He is said to have slain his Brother Geta, and to have married his own Step-mother. He left behind him nothing great and magnificent to perpetuate his me∣mory, save only the Antoninian Baths, (which bore his name as being begun by him, but were indeed finish'd by the Emperour Alexander Se∣verus) and the Causey he made in the Via Nova. He made it Capital for any to wear Amulets about their necks for the cure of Quartan or Tertian Agues. But at length undertaking a War against the Parthians, he was surprized by his Enemies between Edessa and Charroe, and stab'd in the seventh year of his Reign, as he was alighting off his Horse to ease Nature.

But during the most confused state of things and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Govern∣ment of the most dissolute Emperours, Calistus was not at all diverted from his purpose of Establishing a solemn Fast three times in the year, to be observed on the Sabbath or Saturday, particularly to implore a blessing upon the fruits of the Earth, Corn, Wine and Oyl; viz. in the fourth month, the seventh and the tenth, beginning the year according to the custom of the Jews. Though afterwards he changed his opinion,

and appointed it at the four seasons of the year, viz. Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter; at which times in succeeding Ages holy Orders were 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which before was used to be only in the month of De∣cember. He also ordained that Accusations against Clergymen should not be admitted of in any Court if the informers were either infa∣mous, or liable to just suspicion, or avowed Enemies of the accused. Moreover, he adjudged those to be Hereticks, who maintained, that Priests after they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 once convicted of any notorious Crime, were not to be restored to their former Dignity, though they shewed never so great signs of their repentance. Damasus tells us, that he built Saint Maries Church in Trastevere; but I cannot imagine that of his founding to be the magnificent vast one which continues there at this time, since in those days of frequent Persecution all things were carried secretly, and the Christians had only small Chappels, and those private and hid∣den, and for the most part under-ground. He likewise built a Burial∣place, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by his own name, in the Via Appia, at the very place where the ashes of a multitude of Martyrs had been formerly reposited; so that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Reader must not think it strange that we have already said of several that they were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Coemetery of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, though it had not that name till now. I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 self with some of my Friends have religiously went to view it, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the ashes and bones of the Mar∣tyrs are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be seen, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Chappels in which the Chri∣stians privately communicated, when through the Edicts of some Em∣perours they could not do it publickly. In his time lived Tertullian, an* 1.58 African, the Son of a Proconsular Centurion, whom S. Hierom reckoneth next to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Apollonius the principal of the Latin Writers. He was a man of excellent Parts, and wrote a multitude of books. I have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (saith 〈◊〉〈◊〉) at Concordia a little Town in Italy one Paul, who said, that when he was very young he was at Rome acquainted with S. Cyprian's Amanuensis, who assured him, that S. Cyprian never passed a day without the reading of Tertullian. But having continued half his life-time a Presbyter at Rome, through the Envy and Reproaches of the Roman Clergy he afterwards 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Montanist, and wrote several Pieces against the Orthodox Doctrine, particularly those de Pudicitiâ de Monogamiâ, and de 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He also composed six Books against Apollonius. At the same time likewise Origen flourished, and did great* 1.59 service for the Church. For he opposed the Heresie of the Ebionites, who asserted our 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Man, the Son of Joseph and Mary, and press'd the observation of Mosaical Rites; both which Er∣rours were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Symmachus. Moreover, by his Learning he brought over to the Orthodox faith one Ambrosius, who had been (as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉) a 〈◊〉〈◊〉, or (as Hierom will have it) a Marcio∣nite; to whom with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Presbyter, he dedicated his book de 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that violent opposer of Christianity, and who was Origen's 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, cannot yet sometimes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 commending him; calling him 〈◊〉〈◊〉 most learned and Prince of Philosophers, acknow∣ledging 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he was prosoundly skill'd in Platonism, and finding no fault in him but his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Christian. S. Hierom himself says that he wrote six thousand Volumes; though that Father and S. Austin too tell us, that he was erroneous in most 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them, and particularly in his book of Go∣vernment, entituled 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉; yet Pamphilus the Martyr, and Eu∣sebius,

and Russinus a Priest of Aquileia, appear very much in his Praise and Defence. As for Calistus, having at five Decembrian Ordinations, made sixteen Presbyters, four Deacons, eight Bishops: he was crown'd with Martyrdom, and was buried in the Coemetery of Calepodius, in the Via Aurelia, three miles distant from the City, October 14th. He was in the Chair six years, ten months, ten days. The See was then va∣cant six days.

S. URBANUS I.

VRBANUS, a Roman, Son of Pontianus, was Bishop of Rome in the time of the Emperour M. Aurelius Antoninus, Anno Dom. 226. U. C. 970.

This Antoninus, supposed to be the base Son of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, coming to* 1.60 Rome, and being advanced to the Empire not without an universal ex∣pectation of good from him, took the name of Heliogabalus from the Sun, so called by the Phoenicians, to which he built a Temple and was himself a Priest of it. But he led a life so contrary to the hopes and opinion men had entertain'd of him, that he has left no other memory of himself, than that of his exorbitant Villanies and all kinds of debau∣chery. For he violated the chastity of the Vestal Virgins, made his Palace no better than a Stews, and in a rage commanded Sabinus, a man of consular dignity (and to whom Ulpian the famous Civilian wrote) to be immediately put to death. He conferred all places of trust and honour upon the vilest of men, with whom he was wont sometimes to make himself sport after this manner: he would make them lie down with him at Supper, but it should be upon large bellows, which be∣ing raised and distended, they would all of a sudden tumble down un∣der the Table. He had such a loud and undecent way of laughing, that in a full Theatre his Voice might be heard above all the Com∣pany. He was the first among the Romans who wore Velvet, and used Tables and other Utensils of Silver. When some of his Friends ad∣vised him to beware that by his luxury he did not reduce himself to want; Can I do better, says he, than to make my self my own and my Wives Heir? He was once so extravagantly freakish as to cause a Collection to be made of ten thousand pound weight of Spiders, from whence he pretended an estimate might be taken of the bigness of the City of Rome; and to get together ten thousand Mice, and as many Weazels, and Rats. These mad pranks by degrees rendred him so con∣temptible in the eyes of all men, that himself and his Mother were both slain in a Military Tumult. 'Tis said that some Syrian Priests ha∣ving told him, that he should undergo a violent death; he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fairly provided himself of a decent Scarlet Silken Halter to do his own work withal. He died in the fourth year of his Reign, at the same time when the City of Nicopolis in Palestine (formerly called (Emmaus) was built; Africanus the Historian and Chronologer, undertaking an Embassie to promote that Affair.

Urban, who lived in the time of this Monster, not of Dioclesian (as some would have it) by his eminent Piety and Learning proselyted multitudes to the Christian Faith; and among others particularly Vale∣rianus, an excelient Person, and contracted to S. Cecilia, with his Bro∣ther Tiburtius, both which afterwards suffered Martyrdom with great constancy of mind; as did also the espoused Virgin her self, in her Fa∣thers house, which was at her request consecrated and made a Church by Urban. The same Urban also ordained that the Church might re∣ceive Estates in Land or Houses, given and bequeathed to her by any of the Faithful, but that the Revenues of them should not be any ones property, but for the common good be distributed among the whole Clergy to every one his share; a Constitution long since antiquated through the coverousness and rapacity of following Ages. Some attri∣bute to him the distinction of the four stated annual Times of Fasting or Ember-weeks, which through mens ignorance were before kept very confusedly. In his time lived Tryphon one of Origen's Disciples, re∣markable* 1.61 markable for the book he composed concerning the red Heiser in Deu∣teronomy. Minutius Felix also a famous Pleader at Rome, wrote a Dia∣logue,* 1.62 in which he introduces a Christian and an Heathen disputing; besides another book against the Mathematicians, of which Lactantius makes mention. Moreover Alexander, Bishop of Hierusalem, at this* 1.63 time founded the famous Library there, by which he has gained so great a reputation. As for Urban himself, having at five Decembrian Ordinations, made nine Presbyters, five Deacons, nine Bishops; he re∣ceived a Crown of Martyrdom, and was buried in the Coemetery of Pretexatus, in the Via Tiburtina; having been in the Chair four years, ten months, twelve days. And the See was vacant thirty days.

S. PONTIANUS.

PONTIANUS, a Roman, Son of Calphurnius, lived in the time of the Emperour Alexander, in the Year nine hundred se∣venty four from the building of Rome, and the Year of our Lord two hundred forty five.

But between the Reign of Heliogabalus and Alexander there are rec∣koned three other Emperours, Macrinus, Diadumenus and Albinus; whose Names I intended to have left out, not only because they go∣verned but a very little while, but chiefly because they did nothing memorable: only Albinus became notorious to Posterity for his Glut∣tony, eating, if we may believe the Authority of Cordus, an hundred large Peaches, ten choice Melons, five hundred dryed Figs, and four hundred Oysters at one Meal. But to pass by these Monsters of men, I come to Alexander, a singular pattern of Virtue, who being created* 1.64 Emperour by the favour of the Senate and the Army, immediately ap∣plyed himself to the setling of the Commonwealth, which had been very much impaired by the miscarriages of former Princes. To which end he made use of Julius Frontinus a vert learned Man, and Ulpi∣an and Paul, two excellent Civilians, as Assistants and Coadjutors

in that Affair. He was so upright in all his dealings, that no man could ever complain of any Injury receiv'd from him: and so far removed from any kind of Vanity or Ostentation, that he appear'd but once in the costly Robes belonging to his Office, while he was Consul. All those who in their Addresses to him were sneakingly obsequious in their car∣riage, or affectedly complaisant in their words, he would reject as fawn∣ing Fellows; for he was so wise and discerning that no man could im∣pose upon him; one instance of which was his proceeding with Turi∣nus, to whom, for his taking Bribes upon the appearance of his being the Emperours mighty Favourite, he allotted this remarkable punish∣ment; that being bound to a Stake in the Transitory Forum, a place of greatest Concourse, and the most publick thorow-fare, he should be suffo∣cated with smoak; the common Cryer in the mean time proclaiming these words, He that sold smoak, is punish'd with smoak. Though his Mo∣ther Mammoea, as she was a Woman, had a great love for Money, yet he was altogether above it; and for Jewels, he slighted them, as femi∣nine Trifles, being often wont to say, that in Virgil (whom he called the Plato of the Poets) there were more, and more precious Gems to be found. The Revenue which arose from Bawds, and Whores, and Ca∣tamites, he forbad to be laid up in the sacred Treasury, and judg'd it more fit to be assign'd to the defraying some publick Charge, as the re∣pairing of the Theatre, the Cirque, the Amphitheatre, and the Sta∣dium. Having after great search gotten a Collection of the Images of Famous Men, he caus'd them to be set up in the Transitory Forum; and likewise finish'd and beautified those which are at this time call'd the Antonian Baths, having been begun by Antoninus Caracalla. He had it in his design to acknowledg our Saviour to be a God, and build a Temple to him; and did actually set up the Effigies of Christ and A∣braham, and Orpheus in his Domestick Chappel. Being renowned for so many excellent qualities, and created Emperour while he was very young, he immediately engag'd in a War against the Persians, and brave∣ly vanquish'd their King Xerxes. In reforming the Military Discipline he was so strict, that he cashier'd some whole Legions at once; which severity of his was the occasion of his being slain in a tumult of the Sol∣diers at Mentz.

Pontianus being now Bishop of Rome, at the instigation of the Idol∣Priests, both he and Philip a Presbyter, were at the Emperours Com∣mand transported from the City of Rome to the Island Sardinia, much about that time when Germanus a Presbyter of Antioch, and Beryllus a Bishop of Arabia, were converted to the Truth by Origen. The He∣resie of Beryllus was his denial that Christ had any Being before his Incarnation. He wrote some small Pieces, and particularly certain E∣pistles, in which he returns thanks to Origen for his sound Doctrine. There is extant likewise a Dialogue between them, wherein Origen con∣victs Beryllus of Heresie. As for Origen himself, he was a Person of so* 1.65 great Wit and Learning that seven Amanuenses taking their turns, were scarce sufficient for him. He had also as many Transcribers, and young Women well-skill'd in Writing, all which he wearied out with the copi∣ousness and fertility of his Inventions. Being sent for from Antioch to Rome by Mammoea the pious Emperours Mother; he was in great e∣steem with her, and having fully instructed her in the Christian Faith,

he returned to Antioch. But Pontianus, having suffered divers calami∣ties and severe Torments for the Faith of Christ, at length died in Sar∣dinia; his body being afterward at the request of the whole Clergy brought back with great Veneration to Rome by Bishop Fabian, and in∣terred in the Via Appia in the Coemetery of Calistus. At the Ordina∣tions which he held twice in the Month of December, he made six Pres∣byters, five Deacons, and six Bishops. He was in the Chair nine years, five months, two days, and from his Martyrdom the See was vacant ten days.

S. ANTERUS.

ANTERUS, a Grecian, the Son of Romulus, was made Bishop of Rome in the time of Maximine; who Anno U. C. 987. ha∣ving fortunately managed the War in Germany, was elected 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by the Army without any Authority of the Senate.

He was a Man of a mighty Stature, being above eight foot high;* 1.66 and had a Foot of such a magnitude, that it is since become Proverbial, when men speak of a tall Silly Fellow, to say, he needs Maximine's Hose. His Wives Bracelet served him only for a Ring; and his Appe∣tite was so large, that he would drink a Rundlet of nine Gallons of Wine at a Sitting. He raised the sixth Persecution against the Chri∣stians, but in the third year of his Reign himself together with his Son Maximine was slain by Pupienus at Aquileia a City which he besieged, and so an end was put to his Life and that Persecution together; by which means Mammea a Christian Lady, and the famous Origene, the blood of both which he very much thirsted for, escaped his Cruelty. 'Tis reported, that during this Siege of Aquileia, when their bowstrings failed, the Women of the City supplied that want with their hair; for which reason in honour to those Matrons the Senate dedicated a Temple to Venus the Bald.

Anterus was the first who, for the sake of one Maximus a Martyr, ordained that the Acts of the Martyrs diligently search'd after should be committed to Writing by certain Notaries appointed to that pur∣pose, and being written should be reposited in the Treasury of the Church, that so the memory of good men might not perish with their Lives. He ordered likewise that no Bishop should be translated from his first Bishoprick to another for his private Need or Benefit, but only for the sake of the Flock committed to him, and by the leave of the Supreme Bishop. A Constitution which at this day is made void by common Practice; for now the Prelates being intent upon their own Profit and Pleasure, are always looking out for a fatter; Not that they are at all inquisitive how they may feed a larger Flock, but the great Enquiry is, how much any See may be made worth yearly. There is very little discourse among them concerning the care of Souls, but very much concerning the encrease of their Revenues; that thereby they may be able to keep more Horses, and have a greater Retinue of* 1.67 useless lubberly Servants. In his time flourished Julius Africanus, an

eminent Writer, who as 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 tells us, founded a famous Library at Coesarea, This 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Reign of M. Aurelius Antoninus, undertook an Embassie for the rebuilding the City of Emmaus, which as I have al∣ready said, was 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Nicopolis. He wrote also an Epistle to Origen, shewing that the story of Susanna was not received among the Jews: against whom Origen afterwards penn'd a large Epistle up∣on that Argument. At this time likewise flourished Geminus, a Pres∣byter of the Church of Antioch, and Heraclas Patriarch of the Church of Alexandria. As for Anterus himself, having consecrated only one Bishop, he suffered Martyrdom, and was interr'd in the Coemetery of Calistus in the Via Appia, on the third of January. He was in the Chair eleven years, one month, twelve days, and the See was then va∣cant thirteen days.

S. FABIANUS.

FABIANUS, a Roman, the Son of Fabius, continued from the Reign of Gordianus and Philip to that of the Emperour Decius.

Gordianus getting the Empire, and having given a mighty Defeat to* 1.68 the Parthians that made head against him, in his return home to Tri∣umph was slain by the two Philips. His chief commendation was, that he is reported to have had sixty two thousand books in his Li∣brary.

Philip, Anno U. C. 997. having brought home his Army out of Syria* 1.69 into Italy, reigned together with his Son, whom he joyned to him as a Partner in the Empire, five years. He was the first Christian Empe∣rour, and 'tis said of him, that he never presumed to go to the holy Mysteries, before he had confessed. After the third year of his Reign, the thousandth year from the building of the City being compleated, he caused to be celebrated the Secular Games, which were wont to be re∣peated every hundredth year. They were first instituted by Valerius 〈◊〉〈◊〉 after the expulsion of the Kings, and had their name from the Latin word seculum, which signifies the space of an hundred years. But by the fraud of Decius, both the Philips were slain, though in di∣vers places; the Father being put to death at Verona, the Son at Rome.

Fabianus distributed the several Regions of the City among the seven Deacons, by whom the Acts of the Martyrs written by the Notaries were to be collected and digested, for the example of others who pro∣fessed the Faith of Christ. He also built Monuments in the Coemeteries for the honour of the Martyrs. Further, he ordained, that every year at some Sacrament the Chrism or holy Oyl should be new consecrated, and the old burnt in the Church. In his time sprang up the Novatian Heresie. For Novatianus a Presbyter of the City of Rome, out of an* 1.70 eager desire of being Bishop put all things into a great disorder, that the Pontificate might not come into the hands of Cornelius, who was Successor to Fabianus. Having separated himself from the Church, he gave to himself and his Followers the Denomination of the Pure; and

denied that Apostates, though truly penitent, ought to be received into the Church. Upon this occasion a Council of sixty Bishops, as many Presbyters, and several Deacons was held at Rome, in which the opi∣nion of Novatianus was condemned as false, for that according to the example of our Saviour, Pardon is to be denied to no man that repents. At the same time Origen opposed the heretical Doctrine of certain per∣sons, who affirmed, that the Souls of men died with their bodies, and were both together to be raised again at the Resurrection; as also that of the Helchesaites, who altogether rejected the Apostle S. Paul, and asserted, that though a man in his Torments should outwardly deny Christ, yet he might be free from Guilt, provided his heart were up∣right. The same Author wrote against Celsus an Epicurean, who op∣posed the Christians; and sent Letters concerning Religion to the Em∣perour Philip and his Wife Severa; and wrote also many things con∣cerning the order of Faith to Fabianus. Alexander Bishop of Cappa∣docia, having from a desire to see the holy Places, made a Journey to Jerusalem, was there compell'd by Narcissus Bishop of that City and now grown old, to be his Assistant in the Administration of that Bi∣shoprick. But the Persecution under Decius growing hot, at the same that Babylas suffered Martyrdom at Antioch, he being carried to Coesarea, was there put to death for the faith of Christ. As for Fabianus (con∣cerning whom it is commonly believed, that, when enquiry was made for a Successour to Anterus, a Dove lighted upon his head in the same shape with that which descended upon the head of Jesus at Jordan) he received a Crown of Martyrdom, after that at five Ordinations, which he held in the month of December, he had ordained twenty two Pres∣byters, seven Deacons, eleven Bishops; and was interr'd in the Coeme∣tery of Calistus in the Via Appia, Jan. the 19th. He was in the Chair fourteen years, eleven months, eleven days, and by his death the See was vacant six days.

S. CORNELIUS.

CORNELIUS, a Romam, the Son of Castinus, lived in the times of the Emperour Decius,

Who being born at Buda in Hungary, upon the death of the* 1.71 two Philips, assumed the Empire, proving a bitter Enemy to the Chri∣stians, because those Philips had been favourers of their Religion. But having with his Son Caesar reigned only two years, he was so suddenly cut off by the Goths, that not so much as his dead body was ever found. A just Judgment upon him, who raising the seventh Persecution, had put to death a multitude of most holy Men.

During the Pontificate of Cornelius, whose Judgment was, that Apostates upon their Repentance ought to be received, Novatus irregularly ordained Novatianus and Nicostratus; upon which occasion the Confessour's who had fallen off from Cornelius, being of the same opinion with Maximus the Presbyter and Moyses, reconciled themselves to the Church again, and thereby gained the name of Confessours indeed. But not long after,

these Hereticks pressing hard upon him, Cornelius is banished to Centum∣celioe; to him Cyprian Bishop of Carthage, being himself imprison'd, wrote Letters, by which he came to understand both the calamity of his Friend and the confirmation of his own Exile. There are extant 〈◊〉〈◊〉 other Epistles of Cyprian to Cornelius, full of Religion and Piety, but the choicest of them is accounted to be that wherein he accuses and condemns Novatus a certain Disciple of his. Concerning the same He∣resie, Dionysius B. of Alexandria, who had once been Scholar to Origen, wrote to Cornelius; and in another Epislle reproves Novatianus, for ha∣ving deserted the Communion of the Roman Church, and pretending that he was forced against his will to take the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon him; to whom he thus replies, That thou wert (says he) O Novatian, chosen to that Dignity against thy Will, will appear when thou dost volunta∣rily leave it. Cornelius, before he went into banishment, at the Instance of Lucina a holy 〈◊〉〈◊〉, by night removed the bodies of S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the publick burial places, where they seemed to be less secure, that of S. Paul was by Lucina her self reposited in ground of her own in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Oxiensis, near the place where he suffer'd, and that of Peter was by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 laid near the place where he also was Mar∣tyr'd, not far 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Temple of Apollo. But when Decius came to understand that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had received Leters from Cyprian, he caused him to be brought from Ceutumcelioe to Rome; and in the Temple of Tel∣lus, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Praefect being 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he thus 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with him, Are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thus 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that neither regarding the gods, nor fearing the commands and threatning of Princes, you keep a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tending to endanger the publick Weal? To whom Cor∣nelius replied, That the Letters which he receiv'd and return'd, were only concerning the Praises of Christ, and the Design of the Redem∣ption of Souls, lut contain'd nothing in them tending to the Diminu∣tion of the Empire. At this Decius being enraged, gave order that the holy man should first be scourged with a kind of Whips that had small globes of Lead 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the end of them; that afterwards he should be carried to the Temple of Mars to pay Adoration to his Image, and upon his refusal so to do, that he should be put to death. The good man, as they were leading him to Punishment, disposed of what he had to Stephen the Arch-deacon; and afterwards upon the fifth of May was beheaded. Lucina, with some of the Clergy, buried his body by night in a Grotto of hers in the Via Appia, nor far from the Coemetery of Calistus. There are some who write that the Bishop suf∣fered under Gallus and Volusianus, but I rather give credit to Damasus, who affirms Decius to have been the Author of his Martyrdom. Cor∣nelius held two Ordinations in the Month of December, in which he made four Presbyters, four Deacons, seven Bishops. He sat in the Chair two years, three days, and by his death the See was vacant thirty five days.

S. LUCIUS I.

LUCIUS, by birth a Roman, his Father's Name Porphyrius, was chosen Bishop, when Gallus Hostilianus was Emperour.

Gallus associated to himself in the Government his Son Volusia∣nus;* 1.72 in whose times there arose so great a Plague to revenge the cause of Christianity, that there were few Families, much less Cities and Provinces, which had not their share in the publick Calamity. But while Gallus and Volusianus were engaging in a Civil War against Aemilianus, who had attempted an alteration of the Government, they were both kill'd at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, before they had compleated the second year of their Empire. Aemilianus, a person of obscure birth, was slain e're he had possess'd his* 1.73 usurped Power three months; and soon after Valerianus and Gallienus were chosen Emperours, the former by the Army in Rhetia and Nori∣cum, the latter at Rome by the Senate. Their Government proved very pernicious to the Roman State, by the means of their own Pusillanimity and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they exercised against the Christians. For both the Ger∣mans had marched forward as far as Ravenna, laying all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 where ever they came with Fire and Sword, and also Valerianus himself making* 1.74 War in Mesopotamia, was taken Prisoner by the Parthians and forced to live in the most ignominious servitude; for Sapores King of Persia made use of him for a Footstool when he got up on Horseback. A Punishment which justly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him for this reason, that as soon as he was seiz'd of the Empire, he was the eighth from Nero who command∣ed that the Christians should be put to Tortures, be made to worship Idols, or upon their refusal be put to death. Gallienus, being terrisied* 1.75 by this manifest Judgment of God, suffered the Christians to live quiet∣ly. But it was now too late, for by the Divine Permission, the Bar∣barians had already made Inroads upon the Roman borders, and certain pernicious Tyrants arose; who overthrew at home what was left un∣destroyed by the forein Enemy. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hereupon leaves the care of the Publick, and spending his time very dissolutely at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, was there slain.

Lucius, upon the death of Volusianus, being released from banish∣ment, at his return to Rome, ordained, that every Bishop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be accompanied where-ever he went with two Presbyters and three Dea∣cons, as witnesses of his Life and Actions. In his time suffered Saint Cyprian; who was first a Professor of Rhetorick, and afterward, as St.* 1.76 Hierem tells us, at the persuasion of Coecilius the Presbyter from whom he took his 〈◊〉〈◊〉-〈◊〉〈◊〉, becoming a Christian, he gave his Estate to the Poor. Having 〈◊〉〈◊〉 first ordained a Presbyter, and then Bishop of Carthage, he was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to death under 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Volusianus. His Life and Martyrdom were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 well written by Pontius a Presbyter and his Companion in 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And it ought not to be forgotten, that Cyprian before he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was reconciled to the Opinion of the Church of Rome, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were not to be re-baptized, but to be receiv'd without any further Ceremony than that of Imposition of Hands; a matter about which there had been formerly a great Controversie be∣tween

him and Cornelius. But to return to Lucius; before his Martyr∣dom, which he suffered at the command of Valerianus, he delivered up his Ecclesiastical Power to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Arch-deacon. He conferred holy Orders thrice in the month of December, ordaining four Presby∣ters, four Deacons, seven Bishops. He was interred in the Coemetery of Calistus in the Via Appia, Aug. the 25th. He was in the Chair three years, three months, three days, and by his death the See was vacant thirty five days.

S. STEPHANUS I.

STEPHANUS, a Roman, the Son of Julius, was chosen Bishop when the Roman Empire seem'd to be utterly ruin'd; and particularly at the time when Posthumus 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his U∣surped Power in Gallia, though not without great advantage to the Publick.

For he governed very well ten years together, freed the Countrey* 1.77 from Hostility, and restored that Province to its ancient Form. But being afterwards kill'd at Mentz in a tumult of the Soldiers, Victorinus succeeded him, who was indeed an excellent Soldier, but being exces* 1.78 ssively incontinent and adulterous, was slain at Cologne.

Stephanus applying himself to the Regulation of the Church, or∣dained that the Priests and other Ministers should not use their sacred Vestments any where but in the Church, and during the performance of Divine Offices; lest otherwise they should incur the Punishment of Belshazzar King of Babylon for touching the holy Vessels with prophane hands. Concerning the Re-baptization of those who returned to the Faith, he was of the same Judgment with Cornelius his Predecessor, and thought it by no means lawful to communicate with those who re-baptized them; Whereupon Dionysius, who had formerly concurred in opinion about the matter with those of Carthage and the East, both his and their Sentiments of it being now altered, writes to Stephen, and encourages him from the assurance that both the Asian and African Churches were now reconciled to the Judgment of the Roman See con∣cerning it. About the same time Malchion a Presbyter of Antioch, a person* 1.79 of extraordinary Eloquence, became very useful to the Church of God, in* 1.80 writing against Paulus Samosatenus the Bishop of that place, who en∣deavoured to revive the Opinion of Artemon, affirming Christ to have been a meer man, and that he had no Existence till he was conceived by the Virgin Mary. An Opinion which being afterwards condemned in the Council of Antioch by general consent, this Malchion in the name of the Synod wrote a large Epistle to the Christians concerning it. As for Stephanus, when he had by his Example and Persuasion converted a multitude of Gentiles to Christianity, being seized by Gal∣lienus, as some say, or else by those who upon the Edict of Decius were appointed to persecute the Christians, he himself, together with many others his Proselytes, was hurried away to Martyrdom; and having suffered, he was interred in the Coemetery of Calistus in the

Via Appia, August the 2d, after that he had at two Decembrian Ordina∣tions, made six Presbyters, five Deacons, three Bishops. He was in the Chair seven years, five months, two days; and the See was va∣cant two and twenty days.

S. SIXTUS II.

SIXTUS, an Athenian, of a Philosopher became a Christian the Decian and Valerian Persecution yet continuing.

But it will not be foreign to our present purpose to go on, as we have begun, to give some account of the other Tyrants, till we come to the true Successour. Victorinus therefore being slain in Gallia, Tetricus a Senator, being at that time Governour of Aquitain, was in his absence chosen Emperour by the Soldiers. But while these things were transacting in Gallia, Odenatus overcomes the the Persians, defends Syria, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Mesopotamia as far as Ctesiphon.

At this time in Ptolemais, anciently called Barce, a City of Pentapo∣lis, there was broach'd a Doctrine, full of blasphemies against God the Father, and against Christ, whom it denied to be the Son of the most high God and the first-born of every Creature, and against the Holy Ghost, whose being it disowned. The Assertors of it were called 〈◊〉〈◊〉, from Sabellius the author of this perverse Sect. What shall I* 1.81 say of that carnal opinion of Cerinthus? who affirmed, that Christ* 1.82 should personally Reign upon the earth a thousand years, (from whence by the Greeks he was called a Chiliast.) Being himself a man of un∣bounded Lust and Luxury, he feigned a great plenty of delicious Viands and a great variety of beautiful Women to be the principal Ingredients of the happiness of that Kingdom, Of the same opinion likewise was Nepos, a Bishop in some parts of Egypt, who affirmed, that the Saints* 1.83 were to Reign with Christ on the Earth, in the highest enjoyment of all sensual delights and pleasures; (from whom his brutish followers were called Nepotiani.) Sixtus had it some time in his mind to baffle and suppress these opinions, but being accused for preaching the faith of Christ contrary to the Emperours Edict, he was taken and led to the Temple of Mars, where he must either offer sacrifice to the Idol, or upon his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be put to death. As he was going forth to punish∣ment, Laurence his Arch-deacon thus bespake him; Whither art thou going, O my Father, without thy Son? Whither, O best of Bishops, art thou hastning without thy Attendants? To whom Sixtus answered, I do not forsake thee, O my Son; there are yet greater conflicts behind which thou art to undergo for the faith of Christ; within three days, thou as a dutiful Deacon shalt follow me thy Bishop; in the mean time, if thou hast any stock lying by thee, distribute it all to the Poor. On the same day with Sixtus, which was the eighth of August, there were executed six Deacons, viz. Felicissimus, Agapetus, Januarius, Magus, Innocentius, Stephanus. And on the third day after, August the tenth, the same Lawrence, with Claudius the Sub-deacon, and Seuerus the Pres∣byter, and Crescentius the Reader, and Romanus the Door-keeper, were

all put to death together, though with several kinds of Tortures; a∣mong which it is said that Laurence was broiled upon a Gridiron. Vincentius, who had been Scholar to Sixtus, being gone into Spain, could not be present at this Martyrdom. Sixtus, during his Pontificate having at two Decembrian Ordinations made four Presbyters, seven Deacons, two Bishops, his body was interr'd in the Coemetery of Ca∣listus in the Via Appia. The other Martyrs lye in the Coemetery of Proetextatus in the Via Tiburtina, Sixtus sat in the Chair two years, ten months, twenty three days. And the See was vacant thirty five days.

S. DIONYSIUS.

DIONYSIUS, whose original Damasus could not trace, be∣ing of a Monk advanced to the Pontifical Dignity, forthwith allotted to the several Presbyters in the City of Rome their several Churches and Coemeteries, and to others elsewhere 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their respective Parishes and Dioceses; that so every one might be con∣fined within his own bounds and limits.

His contemporary Emperour I take to have been Claudius, who* 1.84 when by consent of the Senate he had undertaken the Government, made War upon, and with incredible slaughter defeated the Goths who had for fifteen years together wasted Illyricum and Macedonia. Here∣upon it was decreed by the Senate, that in the Council-house a golden Shicld, in the Capital a golden Statue should be erected to his Ho∣nour. But falling sick at Sirmium, he died before the second year of his Empire was compleated. Upon his death Quintillus his Brother* 1.85 was straightway chosen Emperour by the Army; a person of singular moderation, and the only man who deserved to succeed his Brother; but he also governed a very little time, being slain in the seventeenth day of his Reign.

During the Pontificate of Dionysius, Paulus Samosatenus deserting the* 1.86 Orthodox Faith, revived the Heresie of Artemon. This Paul being made Bishop of Antioch in the room of Demetrianus, behaved himself with excessive haughtiness and affectation; for as he passed along he affected to read and dictate Letters, a great throng of Attendants go∣ing before and following him; so that for the sake of his Arrogance, multitudes were very strongly prejudiced against the Christian Religion. But had they lived in our times, wherein Pride and Pomp, not to say Luxury it self, are at their heighth; what would they think to see Prelates led on by so many young Sparks, and brought up by a crowd of Presbyters, all mounted upon high-fed and gay-trapped Horses? Certain I am they would abhor and execrate them, and say, that they were false and hypocritical pretenders to the Religion of the blessed Jesus. But I return to Paul, whom I may more securely reprove. He was highly self-opinionated and ambitious, and denied our Saviours eternal Generation, or that he had a being till his conception of the blessed Virgin. For this reason at the Council of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he was pub∣lickly

condemned by the consent of all the Bishops that were present; but especially by the sentence of Gregory Bishop of Coesarea, a most holy man who was present at the Council, and afterwards suffered Martyr∣dom for the faith of Christ. Malchion also a Presbyter of Antioch dis∣puted and wrote much against this Paul, for the reason that I have already mentioned. Dionysius himself could not be at this Council be∣cause of his great Age, but of all the transactions there he had full intel∣ligence given him by Maximus Bishop of Alexandria. Dionysius dying, was buried in the Coemetery of Calistus; after that at two Decembrian Ordinations he had made twelve Presbyters, six Deacons, seven Bishops. He sat in the Chair six years, two months, four days; and the See was vacant six days.

S. FELIX I.

FELIX, a Roman, Son of Constantinus, lived in the time of Aurelianus,

Who came to the Empire A.U.C. 1027, and being an ex∣cellent* 1.87 Soldier gain'd a great Victory over the Goths at the River Da∣now. From thence passing into Asia, at a place not far from Antioch, by the terrour of his name rather than by fighting, he overcame Zenobia, who from the time that her Husband Odenatus had been slain was pos∣sess'd of the Eastern Empire. Her he led in Triumph together with Tetricus, by his defeating of whom at Chaalons, Gallia was again re∣covered. Yet by the Humanity and Clemency of Aurelianus, Zenobia lived all her time very honourably in the City, from whom the Zeno∣bian Family in Rome derives its Original; and Tetricus being saved, was afterwards made Governour of the Lucani. The Emperour now applying himself to works of peace, repaired the Temple of Apollo, and the Walls of the City with great Magnificence. But not long after raising the ninth Persecution against the Christians, the divine Vengeance meet∣ing with him, he was slain at a small Fort between Constantinople and Heraclea, called Zenophrurium.

Felix out of the great regard he had to the honour of the Martyrs, ordained, that upon their account Masses should be celebrated yearly; and that the Sacrifice of the Mass should be celebrated by no other persons but such as were in holy Orders, and in no places but such as were consecrated, cases of necessity being always excepted. But if through the age or loss of Records it were doubtsul concerning any Church whether it had been consecrated or no, he commanded that it should be consecrated anew; saying, that nothing could properly be said to be repeated, of which it is uncertain whether ever it were once done at all. During his Pontificate one Manes a Persian, had the Im∣pudence* 1.88 to profess himself to be the Christ, and that he might gain the greater credit to his Imposture, he associated to himself twelve Dis∣ciples. But as that Manes was detested and abhorred for his pride and blasphemy, so Anatolius the Bishop of Laodicoea was as much extolled and magnified for his Religion and Learning. At the same time al∣so

Saturninus, relying upon the assistance of his Army, enterpriz'd the building of a new Antioch; but when it appeared that he designed to invade the Empire too, he was slain at Apemoea. Felix, after that at several Decembrian Ordinations, he had made nine Presbyters, seven Deacons, five Bishops, suffered Martyrdom, and was buried in the Via Aurelia, May the 30th. in a Church which he had built, two miles distant from the City. He sat in the Chair four years, three months, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 days; and the See was vacant seven days.

S. EUTYCHIANUS.

EUTYCHIANUS, a Tuscan, his Fathers name Maximus, was in the time of the Emperour Aurelianus.

Who being slain was succeeded by Tacitus, a man who both* 1.89 for his Valour and Justice, was certainly very fit for Government, but he was slain in Pontus in the sixth month after he came to the Empire; as was also his Successour Florianus in Tarsus, before he had reigned* 1.90 three months.

Eutychianus ordained, that the fruits of the Earth, as Beans and Grapes, &c. should be blessed upon the Altar; and also that no persons should bury the Martyrs in any but Purple Vestments; unless with his knowledg and leave. Some write that in his time Dorotheus the Eu∣nuch* 1.91 flourished, a man questionless of very great skill in the Greek and Hebrew Language; and with whose Learning 'tis said, the Emperour Aurelianus was wonderfully delighted. For in the beginning of his Reign he was such a Favourer of the Christians, that he severely cen∣sured the Sect of Paulus Samosatenus. But being afterwards corrupted by evil Counsels; and, as hath been said, raising a Persecution against the Christians, having sent Dispatches concerning that Affair to the several Governours of Provinces, he was cut off by the Divine Hand. Eusebius when he was young was an Auditor of Dorotheus at his Expo∣sitions of Scripture. At this time also Anatolius an Alexandrian, Bi∣shop* 1.92 of Laodicea, a man of great Learning, wrote several excellent things in Mathematicks and Divinity; and was very severe against the Mani∣choean Heresie which then very much prevailed. These Manichees to their other Errours, brought in two Substances, the one good, the o∣ther evil, and held that Souls flowed from God, as from a Fountain. The Old Testament they all together disown'd, and receiv'd but some parts of the New.

Eutychianus, after that at several Ordinations, he had consecrated four∣teen Presbyters, five Deacons, nine Bishops, was crowned with Martyr∣dom, and buried in the Coemetery of Calistus, July the 25th. He sat in the Chair one year, one month, one day; and by his death theSee was vacant eight days. There are some who say he lived in the Pontificate eight years, ten months; but I rather give credit to Damasus, who is the author of the former Assertion.

S. CAIUS.

CAIUS, a Dalmatian, the Son of Caius, a kinsman of the Em∣perour Diocletian, lived in the times of Probus, Carus and Carinus.

〈◊〉〈◊〉, a person renowned for Military skill, having undertaken the* 1.93 Government, was very successful in recovering 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that had been pos∣sess'd by the Barbarians. He also vanquish'd Saturninus, who was at∣tempting to usurp the Empire in the East, and Proculus and Bonosus at 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But this Valiant and Just man was notwithstanding slain in a Tumult of the Soldiers at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, in the sixth year of his Reign. After whom Carus Narbonensis entred upon the Empire, and held it two* 1.94 years. He having admitted his two Sons Carinus and Numerianus to a thare in the Government, and having in the Parthian War taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 two famous Cities, was in the Camp slain by a Thunderbolt. Numerianus, who was returning with his Father, was murthered by the fraud of his Father-in-law Arrius Aper. But Carinus a person most dissolutely lewd, was overcome after a sharp and doubt∣ful Engagement, by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and at length suffered the just punishment of his Villanies.

Caius stated the several Orders in the Church, by which as by cer∣tain steps and degrees the Clergy were to rise to the Episcopal Dignity. These were the Door-keeper, the Reader, the Exorcist, the Acolythus, the Sub-deacon, the Deacon, the Presbyter, and the Bishop. He also, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had done before him, allotted several Regions to the Dea∣cons, who were to Register and compile the Acts of the Martyrs. He ordained likewise, that no Laick should commence a Suit of Law against a 〈◊〉〈◊〉-man, and that no Pagan or Heretick should have power to accuse a Christian. In his time lived Victorinus Bishop of Poictiers, who* 1.95 〈◊〉〈◊〉 divers Commentaries on the Scriptures; and was very sharp and severe against the Heresies then prevailing, though he had greater skill in the Latin than the Greek Tongue, as Hierom will have it, who tells us, that the sense of his Writings was great, but the style mean. Pamphilus also a Presbyter and the intimate Friend of Eusebius Bishop* 1.96 of Coesarea, was so eagerly greedy of divine Learning, that with his own hand he transcribed a great part of Origen's Books; which Books Eu∣sebius affirms himself to have seen in the Library of Coesarea, with as great satisfaction as if he had gained the Riches of Croesus. The same Pamphilus wrote the Defence of Origen, as Eusebius himself also did not long after.

But in the Reign of Diocletian, there arising against the Christians a Persecution sharper than ever was before, Caius lay a long time con∣cealed in certain Grotts and Vaults underground; but being at length discovered and taken from thence by the Persecutors, together with his Brother Gabinius and his Niece Susanna, he was crowned with Mar∣tyrdom, and buried in the Coemetery of Calistus in the Via Appia, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 22d. Some write that Lucia, Agatha, and Agnes became Mar∣tyrs not long 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Caius sat in the Chair eleven years, four months,

twelve days; in which time at four several Decembrian Ordinations, he made twenty five Presbyters, eight Deacons, five Bishops; and by his death the See was vacant eleven days.

S. MARCELLINUS.

MARCELLINUS, a Roman, the Son of Projectus, was in the times of Diocletian, a Dalmatian of obscure birth, and Maxi∣mian.

Diocletian, A. U. C. 1041. being elected Emperour by the Army,* 1.97 slew that Aper who had murdered Numerianus. But a Commotion a∣rising in Gallia, which was a Sedition rather than a War, thither Diocle∣tian sent Maximianus Herculeus, by whom the Peasants were soon quell'd. But Wars breaking out on every side, Diocletian not being able singly to bear the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of so many dangers, associates Maxi∣mian by the name of Augustus, and Constantius, and Maximian Galerius by the name of Coesars. Maximian Herculeus, after that Carausius was kill'd by the treachery of Alectus, in ten years time makes himself Master of Britain. And Constantius, after one unsuccessful Engagement in Gallia, renewing the Fight a second time, flew several thousand Germans, who were Mercenaries there, and thereby restored peace to that Pro∣vince. In the mean time Diocletian took Alexandria, which being bravely defended by Achilleus, held out a Siege of eight months, and gratified his Soldiers with the plunder of it. But Maximian Galerius ha∣ving behaved himself gallantly in two Fights against Narseus, was at length routed between Galietium and Carroe; and his Forces being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and lost in that unfortunate Battel, he is forced to fly to Diocle∣tian, who received him with such disdain, that it is said, he suffered him in his Imperial Habit to run on Foot several miles before his Char∣riot. Maximian being nettled at so foul a disgrace, undertakes the War afresh, and in the end becomes Victorious.

Affairs being thus setled, Diocletian in the East, and Maximian Herculeus in the West, commanded that the Churches should be destroyed, and the Christians tortured and put to death; and so raised the tenth Persecution, which lasted longer, and was more vehement and bloody than any be∣fore. For now Bibles were publickly burnt; all Christians who were in any Office ignominiously cashier'd; Servants who continued constant to their Profession cut off of all hope of being ever made Free, and the Christian Soldiers compell'd either to offer up sacrifice to Idols, or else to lay down their Arms and their Lives together; by an Imperial E∣dict publickly affix'd in the Forum. This Edict, a certain person be∣ing so hardy as to pull down and tear in pieces, he was thereupon or∣dered to be fley'd and to have Vinegar mix'd with Salt poured upon his raw flesh till he died; which he patienty endured being confirmed and encouraged in his sufferings by Dorotheus and Gorgonius two very eminent men. At the same time the Royal Palace at Nicomedia hap∣pening to be on fire, the Emperour groundesly suspecting it to be caus'd by the Christians, commanded multitudes of them to be put to the

sword, and several others to be thrown alive into the flames. The same severity was exercised against them in Mitylene, Syria, Africa, Thebais, and Egypt by the several Governours of those Provinces, and in Palestine and Tyre great numbers of them were expos'd to be devoured by wild beasts. Indeed there was no kind of Torment could be invented which the Christians did not undergo. Some had their flesh scraped and torn off with Potsherds, to others sharp Reeds were thrust under their Nails, and to the Women run up into their privities. A certain City in Phrygia was set on fire and burnt to the ground, because the Citizens, who were kept constant to the Faith by Adauctus a pious Roman, refu∣sed to offer sacrifice to Idols. In the end their inhuman Tormentors came to such a height of Cruelty, that they would first burn out their Eyes with searing Irons, and then wreak the remainder of their fury and rage against them. At this time were also put to death for the profes∣sion of Christianity Anthimus Bishop of Nicomedia, and Lucianus the Learned Presbyter of Antioch, and Pamphilus of Coesarea, and Philoeas an Aegyptian and Bishop of Thmyis; this last being beheaded, because he had written a Book in praise of the Martyrs, and had courage e∣nough to tell his unjust Judges their own. I need not enumerate more Instances, since Damasus affirms, that there were no less than seven∣teen thousand persons of both Sexes who suffered Martyrdom through the several Provinces in the space of thirty days. I shall not mention those who were banish'd to the Islands, or condemn'd to work in the the Mines or melting-Houses, or to dig Sand, or to hew Stones, or to other the like kinds of Servitude, whose numbers were almost in∣finite.

But our Marcellinus, being carried to the Heathen Sacrifices, and his Tormentors with menaces urging him to offer, he being overcome with fear submitted to their importunities, and joyn'd with them in their Idolatries. But not long after a Council of an hundred and eighty Bishops being held at Sinuessa a City of Campania, thither goes Marcel∣linus cloth'd in Sackcloth, with all the marks of an humble penitent, and beseeches them to inflict upon him the just punishment of his Co∣wardize and inconstancy. Yet in so numerous a Council there was not a man who would pass any Sentence against him, they all agreeing that he had laps'd only after the same manner that S. Peter himself did, and that by his tears and sorrows he had already sufficiently suffered for his Fault. To Rome returns Marcellinus full of Resentment, hastens to Diocletian, and boldly reproves him for causing him to sacrifice to false Gods. Hereupon, by Diocletian's order he was forthwith led to Execution, together with Claudius, Cyrinus, and Antoninus, three other assertors of Christianity. As he went along, he admonished Marcellus his Presbyter not to submit to the command of Diocletian in matters appertaining to Religion; and forbad him to suffer his Body to be bu∣ried, saying, that since he had denied his Saviour, he was unworthy of the least acts of Humanity. Though indeed by Diocletians order the bodies of all these four Martyrs lay unburied in the High-way the space of thirty six days. Afterwards at the Command of S. Peter the Apostle, who appeared to Marcellus in a Dream, they were buried in the Via 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Coemetery of Priscilla, near the body of S. Crescention, May the 27. After so long a series of miseries, God at length, as Eu∣sebius

words it, opened his Eyes, and to free the Christians from such a Plague, so wrought upon Diocletian's mind, that he voluntarily resign'd the Empire and retired to a private Life. The same did also Maximian, his Partner in the Government, and as violent a Persecutor as himself, who some years after being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with divers diseases, and after in∣cessant Torment being smitten with distraction, and haunted with the reflections on his guilt, at last laid violent hands on himself. It is the judgment of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that this Calamity befell the Christians by Gods permission, as a just punishment for the great corruption of manners which the liberty and indulgence which they before enjoy'd, had oc∣casion'd among them all in general, but especially among the Clergy, to the hypocrisie of whose Looks, the fraud of their Words, and the deceit of their Hearts, the divine Justice design'd to give a check by this Persecution. Indeed the Envy, Pride, Animosity and Hatred with which they strove among themselves was grown to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 an heighth, that it seemed rather a Centention between haughty Tyrants than humble Churchmen; and having forgotten all true Christian Piety, they did not so much perform as prophane the Divine Offices. But what Cala∣mity shall our presaging minds prompt us to expect in our Age, in which our Vices have encreas'd to such a magnitude, that they have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 left us any room for Gods mercy. It would be to no purpose for me to mention the great Covetousness of the Clergy, especially of those who are in Authority; their Lust, their Ambition, their Pomp, their Pride, their Idleness, their Ignorance of themselves and of the Doctrine of Christianity, their little Piety, and that rather seign'd than true, and their great Debauchery, so great that it would be abominable even in the prophane (for so they superciliously call the Laicks;) this I say, it would be to no purpose for me to tell, since they themselves do avow their sins so openly, that one would think they judg'd Vice to be a lau∣dable quality, and expected to gain Reputation by it. The Turk (be∣lieve me, though I wish I may prove a false Prophet) the Turk is com∣ing, whom we shall find a more violent Enemy to Christianity than Diocletian or Maximian. He is already at the gates of Italy; while we idly and supinely wait the common ruin, every one consulting rather his one private pleasure than the publick Defence. I come now again to Marcellinus, whom I would to God we might at last imitate, and return to a better mind. For he, as I said before, finding his Errour in falling away from his Profession, came to himself, and did with great con∣stancy sufter Martyrdom for the Faith of Christ; after that at two De∣cembrian Ordinations, he had made four Presbyters, two Deacons, five Bishops. He was in the Chair nine years, two months, sixteen days; and by his death the See was vacant twenty five days.

S. MARCELLUS.

MARCELLUS, a Roman, of the Region called Via lata, the Son of Benedict, was in the Chair from the time of Con∣stantius and Galerius, to Maxentius.

For Diocletian and Maximian having laid down their Au∣thority, Constantius and Galerius undertake the Government and divide* 1.98 the Provinces between them. Illyricum, Asia, and the East fell to the share of Galerius; but Constantius being a person of very moderate de∣sires, was contented with only Gallia and Spain, though Italy also was his by Lot. Hereupon Galerius created two Coesars, Maximinus whom he made Governour of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Severus to whom he intrusted Italy; he himself holding Illyricum, as apprehending that the most for∣midable Enemies of the Roman State would attempt their passage that way. Constantius, a man of singular meekness and clemency, soon gain'd the universal love of the Gauls, and the rather for that now they had escaped the danger they had been in before from the craft of Dio∣cletian, and the cruelty of Maximian. But in the thirteenth year of his Reign, he died at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in England, and by general consent of all men was placed in the number of the Gods.

Marcellus being intent upon the affairs of the Church, and having persuaded Priscilla a Roman Matron to build at her own charge a Coeme∣tery in the Via Salaria, constituted twenty five Titles or Parishes in the City of Rome for the more advantageous and convenient administra∣tion of Baptism to those Gentiles, who daily in great numbers were con∣verted to the Faith, having a regard likewise to the better provision which was thereby made for the Sepultures of the Martyrs. But Ma∣xentius understanding that Lucina a Roman Lady had made the Church her Heir, was so incensed thereat, that he banished her for a time, and seizing Marcellus, endeavoured by menaces to prevail with him to lay aside his Episcopal Dignity and renounce Christianity; but finding his Commands despis'd and slighted by the good man, he ordered him to be confined to a Stable, and made to look after the Emperours Camels and Horses. Yet this ignominious usage did not so discourage the good Bishop, but that he kept constantly to stated times of Prayer and Fast∣ing, and though he was now disabled in person, yet he neglected not by Epistle to take due care for the regulating of the Churches. But before he had been there nine months, his Clergy by night rescued him from this loathsom restraint; whereupon Maxentius being yet more enraged, secured him the second time, and condemned him to the same filthy drudgery again, the stench and nastiness of which at length oc∣casioned his death. His body was buried by Lucina in the Coemetery of Priscilla in the Via Salaria on the sixteenth of January. In time fol∣lowing when Christianity flourished, a Church was built upon the ground where this Stable stood, and dedicated to S. Marcellus, which is to be seen at this day. We read moreover, that Mauritius together with his whole Legion of Christian Soldiers suffered themselves to be tamely cut off near the River Rhone; to whom may be added Marcus,

Sergius, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Damianus, with multitudes more who were slain in all places. Marcellus being in the Chair five years, six months, twenty one days, at several Decembrian Ordinations made twenty six Presby∣ters, two Deacons, twenty one Bishops; and by his death the See was vacant twenty days.

S. EUSEBIUS.

EUSEBIUS, a Grecian, Son of a Physician, entred upon the Pontisicate when Constantinus and Maxentius were Empe∣rours.

For Constantius, Grandson to Claudius, dying, Constantine his Son by* 1.99 Helena, whom yet he afterwards divorced to gratifie Herculeus, was with universal consent made Emperour of the West. But in the mean time the Praetorian Guards at Rome in a tumultuary manner declare for Maxentius, Son to Maximian Herculeus, and give him the Title of Augustus. Hereupon Maximian himself being raised to some hopes of recovering the Empire, leaves his Retirement in Lucania and comes to Rome, having by Letter endeavoured to persuade Diocletian to do the same. To suppress these Tumults, Galerius sends Severus with his Army, who besieged the City, but being deserted by the treachery of some of his Soldiers who favoured Maxentius his pretensions, was forced to sly to Ravenna, and there slain. And indeed Maximian himself did very narrowly escape the revenge of his Son Maxentius, who eagerly sought his Fathers life for endeavouring by promises and bribes to gain the good will of the Soldiers for himself. But going into Gallia to his Son-in-law Constantine, he there laid a design to ensnare and circum∣vent him too, till his Plot being discovered by his Daughter Fausta, who revealed the whole matter to her Husband, he betook himself to flight, but was taken and put to death at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, thereby suffering the just punishment of his Villanies; or, as others tell us, his condition being desperate, he laid violent hands upon himself.

During the Pontificate of Eusebius, on the third of May the Cross of* 1.100 our Saviour was found, and very much adorn'd, and had in great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Helena Constantine's Mother; Judas also who found it was baptized, and his name being thereupon changed, was afterwards cal∣led Cyriacus. This Bishop admitted Hereticks to the Communion of the Church upon their retractation by the imposition of Hands only. Moreover he ordained that no Laick should commence a Suit against a Bishop. In his time lived Lactantius Firmianus a Scholar of Arnobius.* 1.101 Who being a Professor of Rhetorick at Nicomedia, and discontented that he had so few Scholars in a City of Greece, he thereupon betook him∣self to Writing, wherein he became so excellent that he gain'd a Reputa∣tion next to that of Cicero himself. He wrote many things, but his works that are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 extant, are those against the Gentiles, concerning the Creation of Man, and the Anger of God. In his old Age he was Tutor to Constantine's Son, Coesar Crispus, in Gallia. Eusebius also Bishop of Coe∣sarea* 1.102 in Palestine, a Partner with Pamphilus in the diligent search after di∣vine

Learning, wrote a vast number of Books; particularly those de Proe∣par. Evangelicâ; an Ecclesiastical History; against Porphyry a violent op∣poser of the Christians; six Apologies for Origen; and three Books of the Life of Pamphilus the Martyr, whose name he added to his own for a sur∣name, as a testimony of the strict friendship there had been between them. But our Eusebius the Bishop of Rome, having at one Decembrian Ordination made thirteen Presbyters, three Deacons, fourteen Bishops, died at Rone, and was buried in the Coemetery of Calistus in the Via Ap∣pia, October the second. He sat in the Chair six years, one month, three days, and by his death the See was vacant one day.

S. MILTIADES.

MILTIADES, an African, was Co-temporary with Ma∣xentius, Maximine, and Licinius a Dacian, who for his be∣ing an Excellent Soldier, was admitted by Galerius to a part∣nership in the Empire.

These being sensible that Constantine was well belov'd and highly e∣steem'd by all men, did for that reason seem less enraged against the Christians. Yet Maxentius sent his Soldiers about with private Instru∣ctions* 1.103 to massacre all they could secretly meet with; and taking de∣light in Magick, at the performance of the hellish Rites belonging to that black Art, he would send for great-bellied Women, especially Chri∣stians, and rip them up for the sake of their unborn Infants, whose ashes he made use of in his Sorceries, thereby shewing that Tyranny might be supported and kept up even by Villany. Maximine also exercis'd* 1.104 the like rage and cruelty in the East, giving Rewards and Preferments to the Professours and Teachers of Witchcraft and Sorcery; and being himself very much enclin'd to give credit to Auguries and Divinations, became the more bitterly incens'd against the Christians, because they despis'd such superstitions. He commanded likewise, that the decayed Idolatrous Temples should be repaired, and Sacrifices offered to the Gods in them after the ancient manner. Against them Constantine ad∣vancing with his Army, gain'd so perfect a Victory over Maxentius at Pons Milvius, that his grief to be so shamefully defeated, caused him to forget the snares which himself had laid, and so passing over a Bridg which he had deceitfully contriv'd to entrap his Enemies, he himself with the greatest part of his Guards were drown'd in the River. Having also both by Sea and Land, overcome his Sisters Husband Lici∣nius, he forced him at Nicomedia to yield himself, and to live privately* 1.105 at Thessalonica; a confinement which he justly deserved, because ha∣ving apostatiz'd from the Faith meerly through Envy, he had been a grievous Persecutor of the Christians for the good will they bare to Con∣stantine. As for Maximine, he became manifestly the object of Divine Vengeance; his bowels and entrails being on a sudden so swoln and pu∣trefied, that there appeared no difference between him and a putrid car∣cass; Worms in great abundance breeding in his flesh, and rottenness with intolerable stench overspreading his body. This dreadful punish∣ment

had been long 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for by his wicked practises; for he had for∣bidden the Christians to assemble at the Sepulchres of the Martyrs, and had given out that at Antioch an Image had spoke and proclaim'd aloud, that the Christians must be banish'd out of the Cities, when indeed they were certain knavish Priests whom himself had suborn'd, who from their adjoyning private recesses had uttered these words; and moreover, he had distributed Rewards through the several Provinces to the Idol∣priests who were active against the Christians. But at length the Phy∣sician plainly telling him the danger of his condition, the Tyrant began to relent, and by a publict Edict forbad all persons to molest or injure the Christians, and suffered them to enjoy their liberty. But this forced Repentance slood him in no stead; for having been a long time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with grievous pain and disease, at last died this cruel and inconstant man, who had been sometimes an Encourager, sometimes a Persecutor of the Christians. During these Calamities multitudes of Christians were put to death, and particularly Dorothea, a most virtuous and Beauti∣ful Virgin, who chose rather to die than to yield to the Tyrants Lust. Sophronia also having been oftentimes sollicited by Maxentius, like the Noble Lucretia, slew her self to avoid the danger her Chastity was in from him.

Miltiades ordained, that no Christian should keep a Fast upon a Sun∣day or Thursday, because those days were observed and kept holy by the Pagans; and the Manichoean Heresie being at that time very preva∣lent in the City of Rome, he made several Constitutions concerning Ob∣lations. These things being setled, he was by Maximine's order crowned with Martyrdom; as were also Peter Bishop of Alexandria, Lucianus a a Presbyter of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a man eminent for Piety and Learning, Timothy a Presbyter of Rome, and divers others both Bishops and Priests. Mil∣tiades was buried in the Coemetery of Calistus in the Via Appia De∣cember the tenth. During his Pontificate, he did at one Ordination make seven Presbyters, six Deacons, twelve Bishops. He sat in the Chair four years, seven months, nine days; and by his death the See was vacant seventeen days.

S. SYLVESTER.

SYLVESTER, a Roman, the Son of Ruffinus, was Bishop in the time of Constantine, A. V, C. 1091. Anno Dom. 339.

Under this Prince the Christians, who had been continually harrassed by Tyrants, began to have some respite. For Constan∣tine* 1.106 was equal to the best of Princes in all endowments of Body and Mind, very desirous of Military Glory, successful in War, and yet freely granting Peace to them who asked it. When his other great Affairs per∣mitted, he took very much delight in the study of the Arts; by his Boun∣ty and Goodness he gained the love of all men; many good Laws he en∣acted, repeal'd those that were superfluous, and moderated those that were too rigorous. Upon the Ruines of Byzantium he built a City of his own Name, and endeavouring to make it equal in stateliness of

buildings to Rome her self, he ordered it to be called New Rome, as appears from the Inscription under his Statue on Horse-back.

This great Prince well weighing and considering all things, when he came to understand the Excellency of the Christian Religion, how it ob∣liges men to be moderate in their Enjoyments, to rejoyce in poverty, to be gentle and peaceable, sincere and constant, &c. he thereupon heartily imbraced it; and when he undertook any War, bore no other Figure on his Standard but that of the Cross, the form of which he had seen in the Air as he was advancing with his Forces against Maxentius, and had heard the Angels near it saying to him 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 by this do thou overcome; which accordingly he did, freeing the necks of the people of Rome and the Christians from the Yoke of Tyranny, and particularly defeating Licinius, who had expell'd the Christians from City and Camp, and persecuted them with banishment, Imprisonment, and Death it self; exposing some of them to the Lions, and causing others to be hung up and cut to pieces limb by limb like dead Swine.

Sylvester having so potent and propitious a Prince on his side, leaves the Mountain Soracte, whither he had been banished by the Tyrants, or, as some say had voluntarily retired, and comes to Rome, where he soon prevailed with Constantine, who was before well enclined towards the Christians, to be now very zealous in deserving well of the Church. For as a particular testimony of the honour he had for the Clergy, he al∣lowed to the Bishops of Rome the use of a Diadem of Gold set with precious Stones. But this Sylvester declined, as not suiting a person de∣voted to Religion, and therefore contented himself with a white Phrygian Mitre. Constantine being highly affected with Sylvesters Sanctity, built a Church in the City of Rome in the Gardens of Equitius, not far from Domitians Baths, which bore the name of Equitius till the time of Da∣masus. Upon this Church the munificent Emperour conferr'd several donations of Vessels both of Gold and Silver, and likewise very plenti∣fully endowed it.

While these things were transacting at Rome, at Alexandria a certain* 1.107 Presbyter named Arius, (a man more remarkable for his Person, than the inward qualifications of his mind, and who sought more eagerly after Fame and vain-glory than after Truth,) began to sow dissention in the Church. For he endeavoured to separate the Son from the Eternal and ineffable Substance of God the Father, by affirming that there was a time when he was not; not understanding that the Son was Co-eternal with the Father, and of the same substance with him, according to that assertion of his in the Gospel, I and my Father are one. Now Alexander Bishop of Alexandria having in vain attempted to reclaim Arius from this his Errour, by Constantines Appointment, and at his great Charge,* 1.108 a General Council was called at Nicoea a City of Bithynia, at which three hundred and eighteen Bishops were present. The Debates on ei∣ther side were long and warm. For divers persons subtil at Arguing, were favourers of Arius, and opposers of the simplicity of the Gospel; though one of these a very learned Philosopher, being inwardly touch∣ed by the Divine Spirit, all on a sudden changed his opinion, and im∣mediately embraced the sound and Orthodox Doctrine which before he had pleaded against. At length the matter being throughly discuss'd in the Council, it was concluded that the Son should be styled 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. e.

acknowledg'd to be of the same substance with the Father. Of those who were of Arius's Opinion, affirming the Son of God to be created, not begotten of the very Divinity of the Father, there were seventeen. But Constantine, coming to understand the truth of the Controversie, confirmed the Decree of the Council, and denounc'd the punishment of Exile to those who contradicted it. Hereupon Arius with only six more wer banish'd, the rest of his Party coming over to the Orthodox Opinion. In this Council the Photinians were condemned, who had* 1.109 their name from Photinus a Bishop of Gallogroecia, who taking up the Heresie of the Ebionites, held that Christ was conceived of Mary by the ordinary way of generation; as were likewise the Sabellians, who af∣firmed, that the Father, Son, and holy Ghost were but one Person. In this Council also, the Bishops according to Custom, gave in Bills of Com∣plaint to Constantine, wherein they accused each other, and desired Ju∣stice from him; but the good Emperour burnt all their Accusations, and told them, that they must stand or fall by the Judgment of God only, and not of men. In this Council moreover it was decreed. That no person who upon pretence of allaying the heat of his Lust had castrated himself, should be admitted into Orders; that no new Proselyte, with∣out a very strict Examination should be ordained, and being so, that it should not be lawful for him to co-habit with any other Women than his Mother, or Sister, or Aunt; that none should be promoted to the Order of a Bishop, unless by all or at least by three Bishops of the Pro∣vince; and that one Bishop should not receive any person whether Clerk or Laick who stood excommunicated by another. It was decreed like∣wise, and that very sacredly to prevent all oppression, that there should be a Provincial Synod held every year, whither any who thought them∣selves injured by the Bishop might appeal; and I cannot see why this wholsom Institution should be abolished by the Prelates of our Age, un∣less it be because they dread the Censures of the pious and Orthodox. It was decreed also, that they who in time of Persecution fell away be∣fore they were brought to the Torture, should from thenceforward con∣tinue five years among the Catechumens. Finally, it was decreed, that no Bishop should upon the account of Ambition or Covetousness leave a smaller Church for a greater; a Canon which is quite laid aside in our days, wherein with eager Appetites like hungry Wolves they all gape af∣ter fatter Bishopricks, using all importunities, promises, and bribes to get them. The Constitutions of Sylvester himself were reckon'd these that follow, viz. That the holy Oyl should be consecrated by the Bishop only; that none but Bishops should have the power of Confirmation, but a Presbyter might anoint any person baptized upon the occasion of imminent death. That no Laick should commence a Suit against a Clergyman; that a Deacon while he was doing his Office in the Church should use a Cope with Sleeves; that no Clergyman should plead for others or himself before a Secular Judg. That a Presbyter should not consecrate the Elements upon a Pall of Silk or dyed Cloth, but only upon white Linnen, for the nearer resemblance of the fine white Lin∣nen in which the Body of Christ was buried. He also fix'd the several degrees in the Orders of the Church, that every one might act in his own sphere, and be the Husband of one Wife. But Constantine being desirous to promote the Christian Religion, built the Constantinian

Church (called the Lateran) which he beautified and enriched with se∣veral great Donations, the Ornaments and Endowments which he con∣ferred upon it, being of a vast value. Among other things, he set up in it a Font of Porphyry-stone, that part of it which contains the Water, being all Silver; in the middle of the Font was placed a Pillar of Por∣phyry, on the top of which stood a golden Lamp full of the most preci∣ous Oyl, which was wont to burn in the night during the Easter Solem∣nities. On the edge or brink of it stood a Lamb of pure Gold, through which the Water was conveyed into it; not far from the Lamb was the Statue of our Saviour of most pure Silver. On the other side stood the Image of John Baptist of Silver likewise, with an Inscription of these words, Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the World. There were besides seven Harts placed round about it and pouring Water into it. For the maitenance of this Font he gave several Estates in Land and Houses. Moreover Constantine at the motion of Sylvester built and dedicated a Church to S. Peter the chief of the Apostles, in the Vatican, not far from the Temple of Apollo, where he very splendidly reposited the body of that Apostle, and covered his Tomb over with Brass and Cop∣per. This Church likewise he magnificently adorn'd, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 largely endow'd. The same Emperour also at the instance of Sylvester built a Church, which he enriched and endowed as he had done the former, in the Via Ostiensis, in honour to S. Paul, whose body he entomb'd after the same manner with that of S. Peter; By his order also a Church was built in the Sessorian Atrium, by the name of S. Cross of Jerusalem, wherein he reposited a part of the holy Cross which was found out by his Mother Helena a Lady of ineomparable Piety and Devotion. Who,* 1.110 being promted thereto partly by the greatness of her own mind, and partly by Visions in the Night, went to Jerusalem to seek after the Cross upon which Christ was crucified. To find it was a very difficult task, because the ancient Persecutors had set up the Image of Venus in the same place, that so the Christians might by mistake worship her in stead of their Saviour. But Helena being animated with Zeal, proceed∣ed on to dig and remove the rubbish till at last she found three Crosses ly∣ing confusedly one among another; on one of which was this Inscription in three Languages, Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. Macarius, the Bishop of that City was at first mistaken in his opinion which was the right; but at length all doubt concerning it was removed by an Expe∣riment upon the body of a dead Woman, who was raised to life at the application of the true one. From the sense of so great a Miracle, Con∣stantine publish'd an Edict, forbidding any Malefactor to be from thence∣forward punish'd by Crucifiction. Helena having first built a Church upon the ground where this Cross was found, return'd, and brought the Nails with which our Saviours body was fastned to it, as a present to her Son. Of one of those Nails he caused to be made the bit of the bridle with which he manag'd the Horse he us'd in War, the other he wore on the Crest of his Helmet, and the third he threw into the Adria∣tick Sea to suppress the rage and tempestuousness of it. That part of the Cross which the devout Lady brought along with her in a Silver Case set with Gold and precious Stones, was placed in this Sessorian Church. To which Constantine was very liberal and munificent. Some tell us, that the Church of S. Agnes was built at Constantin's Command, upon the request of his Daughter Constantia, and a Font set up in it, where both

his Daughter and his Sister of the same name, were baptized, and which in like manner he largely presented and endowed. The same Empe∣rour built also the Church of S. Laurence without the Walls, towards which he was not wanting to express his usual Beneficence. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, in the Via Lavicana he built a Church to the two Martyrs, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Presbyter, and Peter the Exorcist; not far from which he built a stately Monument in honour to his Mother, whom he buried in a Se∣puichre of Porphyry. This Church also received signal Testimonies of his exemplary Bounty. Besides these Churches in the City of Rome, he built several others also elsewhere. At Ostia not far from the Port, he built a Church in honour to S. Peter and Paul the blessed, Apostles and John Baptist; near Alba he built a Church peculiarly dedicated to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Baptist; at Capua also he built in honour to the Apostles, that which the called the Constantinian Church, all which he enriched as he had done the former. At Naples he built another, as Damasus tells us, but it is uncertain to whom he dedicated it. And that the Clergy of New Rome also might be sharers in the Emperours 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he built likewise two Churches at Constantinople, one dedicated to Irene, the other to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Apostles, having first quite destroy'd the Delphick Tripods which had been the occasion of a great deal of mischief to superstitious People, and either demolished the Pagan Temples, or else transferr'd them to the use and benefit of the Christians. Besides all the foregoing instances of Constantine's Munificence, he distributed moreover among the Provincial Churches and the Clergy a certain Tribute or Custom due to him from the several Cities, which Donation he made valid and perpetuated by an Imperial Edict. And that Virgins and those who con∣tinued in Celibacy, might be enabled to make Wills, and so to bequeath by Testament something to the Clergy, (from whence I believe the Patrimony of the Church to have received a great encrease) he repeal∣ed a Law which had been made for the propagating of mankind, by which any Person was rendred uncapable of entring upon an Estate who had lived unmarried till five and twenty years of Age; a Law upon which the Princes had founded their Jus trium liberorum, the Right or Priviledg of having three Children, of which they often took advantage against those who had no Issue. All these things are exactly and fully delivered to us by Socrates and Zozomen the Historians. In the time of Sylvester flourished several persons of extraordinary Note, by whose labour and industry many Countreys and Nations were converted to Christianity, and particularly by the preaching of Julianus, Frumentius and Edisius, whom certain Philosophers of Alexandria had carried thither. The Iberi also a remote People were brought to the knowledg and Be∣lief Christianity a certain Captive Woman, through the Assistance and Persuasion of their King Bacurius. At this time likewise the Authority of Antony the holy Hermite did much towards the Reformation of Man∣kind;* 1.111 Helena did oftentimes both by Letter and Messengers recom∣mend* 1.112 her self and her Sons to his Prayers; he was by Countrey an Egyptian, his manner of living severe and abstemious, eating only Bread and drinking nothing but Water, and never making any Meal but about Sun-set; a man wholly rapt up in Contemplation. His Life was written at large by Athanasius Bishop of Alexandria. As for Syl∣vester himself, having at seven Decembrian Ordinations made forty two Presbyters, thirty six Deacons, sixty five Bishops, he dyed and was bu∣ried

in the Coemetery of Priscilla, in the Via Salaria three miles distant from the City, on the last day of December. He was in the Chair twenty three years, ten months, eleven days, and by his death the See was vacant fifteen days.

MARCUS I.

MARCUS, a Roman, Son of Priscus, lived also in the Reign of Constantine the Great, concerning whom Historians differ in their Writings.

For some affirm, that Constantine towards the latter end of his Reign, re∣called Arius from banishment, and became a favourer of his Heresy through the persuasion of his Sister who always insisted, that it was nothing but Envy that had caused his Condemnation. These I believe to be deceiv'd by the nearness of their names, and so to ascribe that to the Father which was the act of the Son. For it is not probable that that wise Prince, who had all along before disapprov'd of the Arian opinion, should now begin to incline to it in that part of his Age wherein men are usually most judicious and discerning. They write moreover, that Constantine was baptized by Eusebius, an Arian, Bishop of Nicomedia. But that this is a mistake appears both from the Emperours great bounty to∣wards the Orthodox, and also from that stately Font upon that occasion erected with wonderful Magnificence at Rome; at which after he had been successful in expelling the Tyrants, he, with his Son Crispus, were in∣structed in the Faith and baptized by Sylvester. They who are of the other opinion tell us, that Constantine deferred so great an Affair till the time that he might come to the River Jordan, in which he had a great desire to be baptized, in imitation of our Saviour; but that in an Expe∣dition against the Parthians, making Inroads upon Mesopotamia, in the thirty first year of his Reign and of his Age the sixty sixth, he died on the way at Nicomedia, before he could reach the River Jordan for the purpose he design'd, and was there baptized at the point of Death. But let these men confound and perplex the matter as they please, we have reason to believe according to the general opinion, that Constantine, who had so often overcome his Enemies under the Standard of the Cross, who had built so many Churches to the honour of God, who had been present at holy Councils, and who had so often joyned in Devotion with the holy Fathers, would desire to be fortified against the Enemy of mankind by the Character of Baptism, as soon as ever he came to understand the excellency of our Religion. I am not ignorant what Socrates, and Zo∣zomen, and most other Writers say concerning it, but I follow the Truth, and that which is most agreeable to the Religion and Piety of this ex∣cellent Prince. The vulgar story of his having been overspread with Leprosie, and cured of it by Baptism, with a previous fiction concern∣ing a Bath of the blood of Infants before prescribed for his Cure, I can by no means give credit to, having herein the Authority of Socrates on my side, who affirms, that Constantine being now sixty five years of Age fell sick, and left the City of Constantinople to go to the hot Baths,

for the recovery of his health, but speaks not a word concerning any Le∣prosie. Besides, there is no mention made of it by any Writer either Hea∣then or Christian; and certainly had there been any such thing, Orosi∣us, Eutropius, and others who have most accurately written the Me∣moirs of Constantine, would not have omitted it. One thing more con∣cerning this great Prince is certain, viz. That a Blazing Star or Comet of extraordinary magnitude appear'd some time before his Death.

Marcus applying himself to the care of Religion, ordained that the Bishop of Ostia, whose place it is to consecrate the Bishop of Rome, might use a Pall. He appointed likewise that upon solemn days immediate∣ly after the Gospel, the Nicene Creed should be rehears'd with a loud voice both by the Clergy and People. He built also two Churches at Rome, one in the Via Ardeatina, in which he was buried, the other within the City; these Churches Constantine presented and en∣dowed very liberally. In the time of this Emperour and Bishop lived* 1.113 Juvencus a Spaniard of Noble birth and a Presbyter, who in four Books* 1.114 translated almost verbatim into hexametre Verse the four Gospels; he wrote also something concerning the Sacraments in the same kind of Metre. Our Marcus having at two Decembrian Ordinations, made twenty five Presbyters, six Deacons, twenty eight Bishops, died and was buried in the Coemetery of Balbina in the Via Ardeatina, Octob. the fifth. He was in the Chair two years, eight months, twenty days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty days.

IULIUS I.

IULIUS, a Roman, the Son of Rusticus, lived in the time of Constantius, who sharing the Empire with his two Brethren Con∣stantine* 1.115 and Constans, reigned twenty four years.

Among the Successours of Constantine the Great is sometimes reckon∣ed Delmatius Caesar his Nephew, who was certainly a very hopeful young Gentleman, but was soon cut off in a Tumult of the Soldiers, though by the Permission rather than at the Command of Constantius. In the mean time the Arian Heresie mightily prevailed, being abetted by Constantius, who compelled the Orthodox to receive Arius. In the second year of his Reign therefore a Council was called at Laodicea a City of Syria, or, as others have it, at Tyre, Thither resort both the Catholicks and Arians, and their daily debate was, whether Christ should be styled 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, of the same substance with the Father, or no. Athanasius Bishop of Alexandria asserted it, and press'd hard upon them with his Reasons and Arguments for it; which when Arius found him∣self not able to answer, he betook himself to Reproach and Calum∣ny, accusing the holy Man of Sorcery, and to procure credit to his Charge, producing out of a Box the pretended Arm of Arsenius, whom he falsly asserted that Athanasius had kill'd, and was wont to make use of that dead Arm in his Incantations. Hereupon Athanasius was violently run down and condemned by the Emperour, but making his escape he lay concealed in a dry Cistern for six years together with∣out

seeing the Sun; but being at length discovered by a certain Servant 〈◊〉〈◊〉, when his Enemies were just ready to seize him, by Divine Ad∣monition he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the Emperour Constans, who by Menaces compelled his Brother Constantius to receive him again. In the mean time Arius, as he was going along in the streets attended with several Bishops and multitudes of people, stepping aside to a place of Easement, he voided his Entrails into the Privy, and immediately died, undergoing a Death agreeable to the filthiness of his Life.

Our Bishop Iulius having been very uneasie amidst this confusion of things, at length after ten months banishment returns to Rome; espe∣cially having receiv'd the news of the death of Constantine the younger, who making War upon his Brother Constans, and fighting unwarily near Aquileia, was there slain. But notwithstanding the present face of things, Iulius desisted not from censuring the Oriental Bishops, and especially the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for calling a Council at Antioch without the com∣mand of the Bishop of Rome, pretending it ought not to have been done without his Authority, for the preheminence of the Roman above all other Churches. To which they of the East returned this Ironical An∣swer, That since the Christian Princes came from them to the West, for this reason their Church ought to have the preference, as being the fountain and spring from whence so great a blessing flowed. But Iulius laying aside that Controversie, built two Churches, one near the Forum Romanum, the other in that part of the City beyond Tyber. He erect∣ed also three Coemeteries, one in the Via Flaminia, another in the Via Aurelia, the third in the Via Portuensis. He constituted likewise, that no Clergyman should plead before any but an Ecclesiastical Judg. He appointed likewise, that all matters belonging to the Church should be penned by the Notaries or the Protonotary, whose Office it was to commit to writing all memorable Occurrences. But in our age most of them (not to say all) are so ignorant, that they are scarce able to write their own Names in Latin, much less to transmit the actions of others. Concerning their Morals, I am ashamed to say any thing, since Pandars and Parasites have been sometimes preferr'd to that Office. During the Reign of Constantine and Constantius, Marcellus Bishop of An∣cyra, was a man of considerable Note, and wrote several things, parti∣cularly against the Arians. Asterius and Apollinarius wrote against him, and accused him of the Sabellian Heresie, as did likewise Hilarius, whom while Marcellus is confuting, his very Defence shews him to be of a different Opinion from Iulius and Athanasius. He was opposed likewise by Basilius Bishop of Ancyra in his Book de Virginitate; which Basilius, together with Eustathius Bishop of Sebastia, were the principal men of the Macedonian Party. About this time also Theodorus Bishop of Heraclea in Thrace, a person of terse and copious Elequence, was a considerable Writer, as particularly appears by his Commentaries upon S. Matthew, S. John, the Psalms and Epistles. As for Iulius himself, ha∣ving at three Decembrian Ordinations, made eighteen Presbyters, three Deacons, nine Bishops; he died, and was buried in the Via Aurelia in the Coemetery of Calepodius, three miles from the City, Aug. the 12th. He sat in the Chair fifteen years, two months, six days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty five days.

LIBERIUS I.

LIBERIUS, a Roman, the Son of Augustus, lived in the times of Constantius and Constans.* 1.116

For Constantine, as I said before, engaging unadvisedly in a War against his Brother Constans, was therein slain. And Constans him∣self, having fought with various success against the Persians, being forced by a Tumult in the Army to joyn Battel at midnight, was at last routed, and designing afterwards to make an example of his seditious Soldiers, he was by the fraud and treachery of Magnentius slain at a Town called Helena, in the seventeenth year of his Reign, and the thir∣tieth of his Age.

Constans being dead, the old Boutefeaus of the Arian Heresie began afresh to make head against Athanasius. For in a Council held at Mi∣lain, all those that favoured Athanasius were banish'd. Moreover, at the Council of Ariminum, because the subtil, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Eastern Prelates were too hard at Argument and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for the honest well-meaning Bishops of the West, it was thought good to let fall the Debate for a time; the Orientalist denied Christ to be of the same substance with the Father. This because Bishop Liberius did at first oppose, and because he refused to condemn Athanasius at the Emperours Command, he was banish'd by the Arians, and forced to absent from the City for the space of three years. In which time the Clergy being assembled in a Synod, in the place of Liberius, made choice of Felix a Presbyter, an excellent person, and who immediately after his choice did in a Convention of forty eight Bishops excommunicate Ursatius and Valens, two Presby∣ters, for being of the Emperours opinion in Religion. Hereupon, at their request and importunity Constans recalls Liberius from Exile: who being wrought upon by the kindness of the Emperour, though he be∣came, as some tell us, in all other things heretical, yet in this particu∣lar Tenent he was on the Orthodox side, that Hereticks returning to the Church ought not to be re-baptized. 'Tis said, that Liberius did for some time live in the Coemetery of S. Agnes, with Constantia the Emperour's Sister, that so through her assistance and intercession he might procure a safe return to the City; but she being a Catholick, and apprehending he might have some ill design, utterly refused to engage in it. At length Constantius, at the Instance of Usatius and Valens, deposed Felix and restor'd Liberius. Upon which there arose so fierce a Persecution, that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and other Clergy were in many places murthered in their very Churches. Some tell us that they were the Roman Ladies at a Cirque-shew, who by their intreaties obtained of the Emperour this Restauration of Liberius. Who, though he were of the Arian opinion, yet was very diligent in beautifying consecrated places, and particularly the Coemetery of S. Agnes, and the Church which he built and called by his own Name, near the Market place of Livia. During these ca∣lamitous times lived Eusebius Bishop of Emissa, who wrote very lear∣nedly and elegantly against the Jews, Gentiles, and Novatians. Tri∣phyllius also Bishop of Ledra or Leutheon in Cyprus, wrote a large and

exact Commentary upon the Canticles. Moreover, Donatus an African, (from whom the Sect of the Donatists are denominated) was so indu∣strious* 1.117 in writing against the Catholick Doctrine, that he infected al∣most all Africa and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with his false Opinions. He affirmed the Son to be inferiour to the Father, and the holy Spirit inferiour to the Son, and rebaptized all those whom he could pervert to his own Sect. Se∣veral of his heretical Writings were extant in the time of S. Hierom, and particularly one Book of the Holy Spirit, agreeing exactly with the Arian Doctrine. And that the Arians might neglect no ill Arts of pro∣moting their Opinions, Asterius a Philosopher of that Faction, at the* 1.118 Command of Constantius, compiled divers Commentaries upon the E∣pistle to the Romans, the Gospels, and the Psalms, which were diligently read by those of that Party to confirm them in their Persuasion. More∣over, Luciser Bishop of Cagliari, together with Pancratius the Presby∣ter,* 1.119 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Deacon, were sent in an Embassie from the Bishop to the Emperour; and being by him banished for refusing to renounce the Nicene, under the name of the Athanasian Faith, he wrote a Book against Constantius, and sent it to him to read. But notwithstanding this provocation he lived till the time of Valentinian. 'Tis said also, that Fortunatus Bishop of Aquileia, had been tampering with Liberius just before his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and endeavouring to bring him over to the Arian Heresie. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 likewise, who for his great parts had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 given him the Surname of Scholasticus, compiled an excellent Book against 〈◊〉〈◊〉, nor could all the menaces of the Emperour make him desist from the open Confession of the Truth; but on the contrary, hoping to have rendred Constantius more favourable to Athanasius the Great (so called from the constant and unwearied Opposition which he always kept up against Pagans and Hereticks) into his presence he bold∣ly goes, nor did the Threats of so great a Prince cause him to stir one step backward from his Constancy and Resolution. As for Liberius. having at two Ordinations held in the City of Rome, made eighteen Presbyters, five 〈◊〉〈◊〉, nineteen Bishops; he died, and was buried in the Coemetery of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Via Salaria, April the 23d. He sat in the Chair six years, three months, four days, and by his death the See was vacant six days.

FELIX II.

FELIX the Second, a Roman, the Son of Anastasius, was Bishop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the Reign of Constantius.

Who by the death of Constans, slain by Magnentius.. becom∣ing* 1.120 now sole Emperour, sent into Gallia to suppress a Sedition arisen there, his Cosin German Julian, whom he had created 〈◊〉〈◊〉; who in a short time by his great Valour and Conduct reduc'd both the Gauls and Germans; whereby he gained so much the Affections of the Army, that by universal 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they made him Emperour. At the News of this Constantius, who was engaged in a War with the Parthians, suddenly strikes up a Truce with them, and forthwith marches forward to op∣pose

Julian; but in his March being feiz'd with an Apoplexy, he died between Cilicia and Cappadocia at a Town called Mopsocrene, in the 24th year of his Reign and of his Age the 45th. The Physicians were of Opi∣nion that the excessive grief and anxiety of mind which the Rebellion of Julian had brought upon him, was the occasion of that fatal distem∣per to him. He was, (excepting always the Case of the Christians, against whom he was unjust and cruel) a Person of so great modera∣tion and clemency, that according to the Ancient custom he deserv'd an Apotheosis. Upon his first undertaking the Government, at his entring triumphantly by the Via Flaminia into the City of Rome in his golden Chariot, he did with wonderful condescention take notice of and Sa∣lute the Citizens that went out to meet him, affirming that of Cyneas the Ambassadour of Pyrrhus to be true, that he saw at Rome as many Kings as there were Citizens. In one thing only he was the occasion of laughter to the people, viz. that as he passed through the lofty gates of the City, and the stately Triumphal Arches, though he were a man of a very little Stature, yet as though he feared to hit his head against the tops of them, he bow'd it-down low, like a Goose stooping as she goes in at a Barn-door. Being conducted to view the Rarities of the City, and beholding with admiration the Campus Martius, the Sepulchre of Augustus Coesar, adorned with so many Statues of Marble and Brass, the Forum Romanum, the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus, the Baths, the Porticoes enlarged like so many Provinces, the Amphitheatre built with Tiburtine stone of so vast a height that a mans Eye could scarce reach to the top of it, the Pantheon built with stately Arches of a won∣derful Altitude, the Temple of Peace, Pompey's Theatre, the great Cirque, the Septizonium of Severus, so many Triumphal Arches, so many Aquae∣ducts, so many statues erected here and there throughout the City for Ornament; beholding all this, I say, he at first stood astonished, and at length declared, that certainly Nature had laid out all her stock upon one City. At the sight of the famous Horse of Brass set up by Trajan, he desired of Hormisda an excellent Workman, whom he had brought along with him, that he would make such another for him at Constan∣tinople, to whom Hormisda replyed, that the Emperour ought then to build such another Stable (meaning the City of Rome.) The same Hormisda being asked by Constantius, what he thought of the City of Rome, returned an Answer becoming a Philosopher, That all which pleased him in it was, That he understood that there also men were wont to die.

Felix, who, as we have said, was put into the place of Liberius by the Orthodox, (though Eusebius and S. Hierom, which I much wonder at, affirm it to have been done by the Hereticks) presently after his entrance upon the Pontificate pronounces Constantius the Son of Con∣stantine the Great a Heretick, and re-baptized by Eusebius Bishop of Ni∣comedia in a little Town called Aquilo, not far from Nicomedia. And hereby may be discovered the Errour of those who accuse Constantine the Great himself of this Heresie; an Imputation which certainly, as appears by History, neither ought nor can be fastned upon that Great Prince, and great favourer of the Christian Religion. While this great Contention which we have spoken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 between Liberius and Felix last∣ed, the Arian Heresie branched it self into two Factions. For on the

one side Eunomius (from whom they were called Eunomians) a man* 1.121 Leprous both in body and mind, and who had a Falling-〈◊〉〈◊〉 as well within as without, affirmed, that in all things the Son was unequal to the Father, and that the Holy Spirit had no Community of Essence with the Father or the Son. On the other side Macedonius, whom the* 1.122 Orthodox had made Bishop of Constantinople before he became errone∣ous in his Opinions, was renounced by the Arians, for holding the Son to be equal with the Father, though he uttered the same blasphemies against the Holy Spirit that themselves did. 'Tis said, that Felix held a Council of forty eight Bishops, in which it was decreed, that all Bi∣shops should attend in person at every General Council, or else by Let∣ter give a good account why they could not; which Decree was after∣wards renewed in the Council of Carthage. In his time lived Acacius, for his having but one Eye called Monophthalmus, Bishop of Coesarea in Palestine, who wrote largely upon Ecclesiastes, and who by his fair Speech and swimming carriage had gained such an Ascendant over Constantius, that he himself undertook to appoint Felix an Arian to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the room of Liberius; this S. Hierom tells us, though I much marvel at it, since, as we have already said, it is evident that Felix was a Ca∣tholick, and a constant Opposer of the Arians. At length, after Felix had done all that in him lay for the propagation and defence of the true Faith, he was seized by his Enemies, and together with many other Orthodox Believers was slain and buried in a Church which himself had built in the Via Aurelia, two miles from the City, November the 20th. He was in the Chair only one year, four months, two days, through the means of a Sedition raised by Liberius (whom I have inserted into the num∣ber of Bishops, more upon the Authority of Damasus, than for any de∣serts of his own.)

DAMASUS I.

DAMASUS, a Spaniard, Son of Antonius, lived in the Reign of Julian,

Who was certainly an extraordinary person, if we regard his* 1.123 fitness either for Civil or Military affairs. He had his Education under Eubulus the Sophist, and Libanius the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and made such pro∣ficiency in the liberal Arts, that no Prince was his Superiour in them. He had a capacious Memory, and a happy Eloquence, was bountiful towards his Friends, just to Foreiners, and very desirous of Fame. But all these qualities were at last sullied by his Persecution of the Christians, which yet he managed more craftily than others had done; for he did not persecute at first with Force and Torture, but by Rewards, and Ho∣nours, and Caresses, and Persuasions, he seduc'd greater numbers of them than if he had exercised any manner of Cruelties against them. He forbad the Christians the study of Heathen Authors, and denied ac∣cess to the publick Schools to any but those who worship'd the Gentile Gods. Indeed he granted a Dispensation to one person, named 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a most learned man, to teach the Christians publickly; but he

with disdain refused to accept of that Indulgence. He prohibited the conferring Military 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon any but Heathens, and ordered that no Christians should be admitted to the Government or Jurisdiction of Provinces, upon pretence that the Laws of their Religion forbad them the use of their own Swords. He openly opposed and banished Atha∣nasius, at the instigation of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and South-sayers, with whose Arts he was wonderfully pleased, they complaining to him that Atha∣nasius was the cause why their Profession was in no greater esteem. At a certain time as he was sacrificing to Apollo at Daphne in the Suburbs of Antioch, near the Castalian Fountain, and no Answers were given him to those things concerning which he enquired; expostulating with the Priests about the cause of that silence, the Devils replyed, that the Sepulchre of Babylas the Martyr was too near, and therefore no responses could be given. Hereupon Julian commanded the Galileans, for so he called the Christians, to remove the Martyrs Tomb farther off. This they applyed themselves to with wondrous exultation and chear∣fulness, but rehearsing at the same time that of the Psalmist, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be all they that serve graven Images, that boast themselves of Idols; They hereby so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the rage of Julian, that he forthwith com∣manded multitudes of them to be put to death, which he did not before intend. I much wonder that Julian should act after this manner, ha∣ving had before experience of the vanity of diabolical Arts. For entring once into a Cave in company with a Magician, and being sorely 〈◊〉〈◊〉 when he heard the Demons howl, in the surprize he used the sign of the Cross, at which the Demons immediately 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Upon this telling his Companion, that certainly there must needs be something miracu∣lous in the Sign of the Cross; the Sorcerer made him this Answer, That indeed the Demons themselves did dread that kind of punishment. By this slight account of the matter Julian became more 〈◊〉〈◊〉 than be∣fore, so strangely was he addicted to Magical delusions, though he had formerly, to decline the displeasure of Constantius, seignedly embraced the Christian Religion, publickly read the holy Scriptures, and built a Church in honour to the Martyrs. Moreover, this Emperour on pur pose to spite the Christians, permitted the Jews to rebuild their Temple at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, upon their declaring that they could not sacrifice in any other place. By which concession they were so mightily 〈◊〉〈◊〉 up, that they used all their endeavours to raise it more magnificent than the for∣mer. But while they were carrying on the Work, the new Fabrick fell down in an Earthquake, by the fall of which multitudes of the Jews were crush'd to death, and the Prophesie a second time verified, That there should not be left one stone upon another. On the following day the very Iron Tools with which the Workmen wrought were consumed by fire from Heaven; a Miracle by which many of the Jews were so wrought upon that they became Proselytes to Christianity. After this Julian undertakes an Expedition against the Persians, of whom he had Intelligence that they were endeavouring a Change in the Government; but before he set forth, he spared not to threaten what havock he would make among the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at his return. But having vanquished the Enemy, and returning Conquerour with his Army, though in some disorder, he died of a Wound given him near 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Whether he received it from any of his own men or from the Enemy, is 〈◊〉〈◊〉;

〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 us, that he was pierced through with an Arrow sent no 〈◊〉〈◊〉 knew from whence, as also that when he was just expiring, with 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 lift up to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he cried out, Thou 〈◊〉〈◊〉 overcome me, O 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for so in contempt he was wont to call our Saviour, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, or the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉; upon which was grounded that Answer of a young 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Sophist, asking him by way of derision What he thought the Carpenters Son was doing; To whom the youth replyed, That he was making a Coffin for Julian; a witty and Prophe∣tick Reply; for soon after his saying so Julians dead body was coffin'd up and brought away. We are told, that this Emperour had once been in holy Orders, but that afterwards he fell away from the Faith, for which reason he is commonly call'd the Apostate. He died in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 month of his Reign, and in the thirty second year of his Age.

Him Jovinian succeeded, who being voted Emperor by the Army, re∣fused* 1.124 to own that Title, till they should all with a loud Voice confess themselves to be Christians. This they having done, and he having commended them for it, he took the Government upon him, and freed his Army out of the hands of the barbarous, with no other composi∣tion but that of leaving Nisibis and part of Mesopotamia free to Sapores the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 King. But in the eighth month of his Reign, whether from some crudity upon his stomach, as some will have it, or from the faint and suffocating steam of burning Coals, as others, or by what means soever, certain it is that he died suddenly.

Damasus being chosen to the Pontificate, was soon rivall'd in that Dig∣nity by Ursicinus a Deacon, whose Party having assembled themselves in a Church, thither also Damasus's Friends resorted, where the Competi∣tion being manag'd not only by Vote, but by force and Arms, several persons on both sides were slain in the very Church. But not long after the matter was compromis'd, and by the consent both of the Clergy and People, Damasus was confirmed in the Bishoprick of Rome, and Ur∣sicinus was made Bishop of Naples. But Damasus being afterwards accu∣sed of Adultery, he made his Defence in a publick Council wherein he was acquitted and pronounced innocent, and Concordius and Calistus two Deacons, his false Accusers, were condemn'd and excommunicated. Upon which a Law was made. That if any man did bear false Witness against another, he was to undergo the same punishment that the per∣son accused should have done if he had been guilty. The affairs of the Church being at length setled, Damasus taking great delight in study, wrote the Lives of all the Bishops of Rome that had been before him, and sent them to S. Hierom. Notwithstanding which, he neglected not to encrease the number of Churches, and to add to the Ornaments of Divine Worship. For he built two Churches, one near Pompey's Theatre, the other at the Tombs in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ardeatina, and in elegant Verse wrote the Epitaphs of those Martyrs whose Bodies had been there buried, to perpetuate their names to Posterity. He also dedicated a Marble Table with an Inscription to the Memory of S. Peter and S. Paul at the place where their Bodies had once lain. Moreover, he enriched the Church which he had built in honour to S. Laurence, not far from Pompeys Theatre with very large donations. He ordained likewise that the Psalms should be sung alternately in the Church; and that at the end of every Psalm the Gloria Patri should be added. And whereas for∣merly

the Septuagint only had been in vogue, Damasus first gave Autho∣rity to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Translation of the Bible, which began to be read pub∣lickly, as also his Psalter faithfully rendred from the Hebrew, which before, especially among the Gauls, had been very much depraved. He commanded also, that at the beginning of the Mass the Confession should be used as it is at this day. But having at sive Ordinations made thirty one Presbyters, eleven Deacons, sixty two Bishops, he died and was buried with his Mother and Sister in the Via Ardeatina, in the Church built by himself, December the 11th. He sat in the Chair nineteen years, three months, eleven days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty one days.

SIRICIUS I.

SIRICIUS, a Roman, Son of Tiburtius, lived in the time of Valentinian,

Who, for his being a Christian, had been very unjustly dealt* 1.125 withall, and cashier'd from a considerable Command in the Army by Ju∣lian. But upon the Death of Jovinian being by the universal consent of the Soldiers elected Emperour, he admitted his Brother Valens his Collegue in the Empire, and assign'd to him the Government of the East. Afterwards, in the third year of his Reign, at the persuasion of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and her Mother, he created his young Son Gratian Augustus. And whereas one 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had rais'd a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and set up for himself at Constantinople, him with his Adherents the Emperour very suddenly overthrew and put to death.

But Valens having been baptized by Eudoxius an Arian Bishop, and* 1.126 becoming a bigotted 〈◊〉〈◊〉, presently fell to persecuting and banishing the Orthodox, especially after the death of Athanasius, who while he lived was a mighty support to the Christian State for forty six years to gether. Lucius also another Heretical Bishop was extreamly violent and outragious against the Orthodox Christians; nor did he spare so much as the Anchorets and Eremites, but sent parties of Soldiers to in∣vade their Solitudes, who either put them to death or else sent them into Exile. Amongst this sort of men they who at that time had the greatest esteem and authority, were the two Macarii in Syria, the Disciples of Anthony, one of which lived in the upper, the other in the lower Desert; as also 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Panucius, Pambus, Moses, Benjamin, Paulus 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Paulus Phocensis, and Joseph in Egypt. While Lucius was intent upon the banishment of these men, a certain inspired Woman went about crying aloud, that those good Men, those Men of God ought by no means to be sent into the Islands. Moreover Mauvia, Queen of the Saracens ha∣ving by frequent Battels very much impaired the Roman Forces, and har∣rassed their Towns on the borders of Palestine and Arabia, refused to grant the Peace which they desired at her hands unless Moses, a man of most exemplary Piety, were consecrated and appointed Bishop to her People. This Lucius willingly assented to; but when Moses was brought to him, he plainly told him, that the multitudes of Christians condemn'd

to the Mines, banish'd to the Islands and imprison'd through his cruel∣ty, did cry 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against him, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that therefore he would never 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the imposition of his polluted hands. 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Bishops 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 to consecrate him, he was presented to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 concluded. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 still to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against the Orthodox, though 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 more favourable towards 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by the Letters of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the 〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉 of his people which 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 for their 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

In 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 by his Valour 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Conduct 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But while he was making 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 a War 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 who had spread 〈◊〉〈◊〉 through the two 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he died at a little Town called 〈◊〉〈◊〉, through a sudden 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Blood. At this time the 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉 their own 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 themselves of all 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (having first, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 too 〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉 and Monks, and 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉 his Army 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 An overthrow which 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 to the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉.

〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 into any 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 from the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 Dignity it 〈◊〉〈◊〉. That the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 of 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 not be conferred at once, but at certain distances 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 who 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the City, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the faithful; but 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 that upon 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and return to the Orthodox Faith they should be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into the Church, upon condition they would undertake a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 course of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 themselves to Fasting and Prayer all 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 which, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that their Conversion 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 approach 〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉 as their 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉 but a Bishop should have power to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉〈◊〉; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 whosoever married a Widow, or second 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should be degraded from his Office in the Church, and that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon their Repentance should be received with only the Imposition of Hands. In his time lived 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who 〈◊〉〈◊〉 twelve* 1.127 Books 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and one against 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 not long 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 who had* 1.128 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉* 1.129 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉* 1.130 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉* 1.131 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊◊〉* 1.132 〈7 words〉〈7 words〉 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉

old Age so great a Proficient in those Arts which most require the assi∣stance of sight, particularly in Logick and Geometry, that he wrote some excellent Treatises in the Mathematicks. He published also Com∣mentaries on the Psalms, and the Gospels of Matthew and John, and was a great opposer of the Arians. Moreover, Optatus an African Bi∣shop* 1.133 of Mela, compiled six Books against the 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and Severus Aquilius a Spaniard, who was kinsman to that Severus to whom La∣ctantius penn'd two Books of Epistles, wrote one Volume called 〈◊〉〈◊〉. As for our Siricius, having setled the Affairs of the Church, and at five Ordinations, made twenty six Presbyters, sixteen Deacons, thirty two Bishops, he died and was buried in the Coemetery of Priscilla in the Via Salaria, Febr. 22. He was in the Chair fifteen years, eleven months, twenty days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty days.

ANASTASIUS I.

ANASTASIUS, a Roman, the Son of Maximus, was made Bishop of Rome in the time of Gratian.

This Gratian was a young Prince of eminent Piety, and so* 1.134 good a Soldier, that in an Expedition against the Germans that were now harrassing the Roman Borders, he did in one Battel at Argentaria cut off thirty thousand of them, with very little loss on his own side. Returning from thence to Italy, he expelled all those of the Arian Fa∣ction, and admitted none but the Orthodox to the execution of any Ecclesiastical Office. But apprehending the Publick-weal to be in great danger from the attempts of the Goths, he associated to himself as a Partner in the Government, Theodosius a Spaniard, a person eminent for his Valour and Conduct; who vanquishing the Alans, Hunns and Goths, re-establish'd the Empire of the East, and entred into a League with Athanaricus King of the Goths, after whose Death and magnificent Burial at Constantinople, his whole Army repaired to Theodosius, and de∣clared they would serve under no other Commander but that good Em∣perour. In the mean time, Maximus usurped the Empire in Britain, and passing over into Gaul, slew Gratian at Lions: whose death so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his younger Brother Valentinian, that he forthwith fled for refuge to Theodosius in the East. Some are of opinion, that those two Brethren owed the Calamities which befell them to their Mother Justina, whose great Zeal for the Arian Heresie made her a fierce Persecutor of the Orthodox, and especially of S. Ambrose, whom against his will the people* 1.135 of Milain had at this time chosen their Bishop. For Auxentius an Arian, their late Bishop being dead, a great Sedition arose in the City about chusing his Successour. Now Ambrose, who was a man of Consular dignity, and their Governour, endeavouring all he could to quell that disorder, and to that end going into the Church, where the people were in a tumultuary manner assembled, he there makes an excellent Speech tending to persuade them to Peace and Unity among themselves; which so wrought upon them, that they all with one consent cryed out, that they

would have no other Bishop but Ambrose himself. And the event ans∣wered their desires; for being as yet but a Catechumen, he was forth∣with baptized, and then admitted into holy Orders, and constituted Bishop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Milain. That he was a person of great Learning and extraor∣dinary Sanctity, the account which we have of his Life, and the many excellent Books which he wrote do abundantly testifie.

Our Anastasius decreed, that the Clergy should by no means sit at the singing, or reading of the holy Gospel in the Church, but stand bowed and in a posture of 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and that no Strangers, especially those that came from the parts beyond the Seas, should be receiv'd into holy Orders, unless they could produce Testimonials under the hands of five Bishops. Which latter Ordinance is suppos'd to have been occasioned by the practice of the Manichees, who having gain∣ed a great esteem and Authority in Africa, were wont to send their Missionaries abroad into all parts, to corrupt the Orthodox Doctrine by the infusion of their Errours. He ordained likewise, that no person 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of body, or maimed, or defective of any Limb or Member should be admitted into holy Orders. Moreover, he dedicated the Crescentian Church, which stands in the second Region of the City, in the Via Ma∣rurtina. The Pontificate of this Anastasius, as also that of Damasus and Siricius his Predecessors, were signaliz'd not only by those excellent Emperours Jovinian, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Gratian, and Theodosius, but also by those many holy and worthy Doctors, both Greek and Latin, that were famous in all kinds of Learning. Cappadocia, as Eusebius tells us, brought forth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Nazianzen, and Bazil the Great, both extraordinary Per∣sons, and both brought up at Athens. Basil was a Bishop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of* 1.136 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a City formerly called Mazaca. He wrote divers excellent Books against Eunomius, one concerning the Holy Ghost, and the Or∣ders of a Monastick life. He had two Brethren, Gregory and Peter, both very learned Men, of the former of which some Books were extant in the time of Eusebius. Gregory Nazianzen, who was Master to S. Hie∣rom,* 1.137 wrote also many things; particularly in praise of Cyprian, Atha∣nasius and Maximus the Philosopher; two Books against Eunomius, and one against the Emperour Julian, besides an Encomium of Marriage and single Life in Hexameter Verse. By the strength of his reasoning and the power of his Rhetorick, (in which he was an imitatour of Polemon a man of admirable Eloquence) he brought off the Citizens of Constanti∣nople from the Errours with which they had been infected. At length being very aged, he chose his own Successour, and led a private life in the Countrey. Basil died in the Reign of Gratian, Gregory of Theodosius. About the same time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Epiphanius Bishop of Salamine in Cyprus,* 1.138 a strenuous oppugner of all kinds of Heresies; as did also Ephrem a Deacon of the Church of Edessa, who composed divers Treatises in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Language, which gained him so great a Veneration, that in some Churches his Books were publickly read after the Holy Scriptures. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. having at two Decembrian Ordinations, made eight Presbyters, five Deacons, ten Bishops, died and was buried April 28. He was in the Chair three years, ten days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty one days.

INNOCENTIUS I.

INNOCENTIUS, an Alban, Son of Innocentius, was Bishop in part of the Reign of Theodosius,

Who with great Conduct and singular Dispatch overcame* 1.139 the Usurper Maximus, and at Aquileia whither he had fled, retaliated upon him the Death of Gratian. A fate which the good Bi∣shop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had foretold to Maximus himself, when he was going against all Right and Justice to invade Italy, having dreined Britain of its Military Forces, and left it an easie prey to the Scots and Picts. Moreover, Theodosius, relying wholly upon the Divine aid, in a very short time defeated not only Andragatius Maximus's General, and Victor his Son, but Argobastus and Eugenius two other Vsurpers; which was the occasion of that strain of the Poet Claudian upon this Emperours success,

O nimium dilecte Deo, tibi militat Aether, Et conjurati veniunt ad classica Venti!

Englished,

Darling of Heaven, with whom the Skies combine, And the confederate Winds in Battel joyn!

He was not only a great Soldier, but a very pious and devout man; as appears by his carriage upon the repulse he found at the Church of Milain; for being forbidden entrance by Ambrose the Bishop of it, till he should have repented of a certain Crime committed by him, he so well resented the Bishop's plain dealing with him, that he frankly gave him thanks for it, and completed his course of Pennance for the Fact that had been the occasion of it. By his Empress 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had two Sons Arcadius and Honorius. Being once in a great transport of rage against the Citizens of Thessalonica, for their having kill'd a Soldier, or as others say a Ma∣gistrate of his, all the Clergy of Italy were scarce able to keep him from destroying the whole City upon that provocation. But afterwards coming to himself, and understanding the matter better, being convin∣ced of his Errour, he both bewailed the Fact which he had only willed but not executed; and also made a Law, that the punitive Decrees of Princes should be deferr'd for three days, that so they might have space left for compassion or retractation. It is reported of him, that when at any time he was in a sudden heat of Anger, he would force himself to repeat over distinctly all the Letters of the Alphabet, that so in the mean time his Anger might evaporate. 'Tis said also, that he contra∣cted a great Friendship with one John an Anchorete, whose advice he always used both in War and Peace. But in the fiftieth year of his Age he died at Milain.

Innocentius improving the opportunity of such a peaceable state of Affairs, and so propitious a Prince, made several Constitutions con∣cerning matters of the Church. He appointed that every Saturday

should be a Fast, because our Blessed Saviour lay in the Grave, and his Disciples 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on that day. He made certain Laws concerning the Jews and Pagans, and for the regulation of Monks. By the consent of Theodosius he banish'd from the City and confin'd to a Monastick life the Cataphrygian Hereticks of the gang of Montanus, Priscilla and Ma∣ximilia. Moreover, he condemned the Heresie of Pelagius and Coele∣stinus, who preferred Free-will before the Divine Grace; and asserted, that men by their own natural strength were able to perform the Laws of God; against whom S. Austin wrote largely. But Pelagius persist∣ing obstinately in his opinions against all Conviction, went into Britain and infected the whole Island with his Errours, being assisted by Julian his Companion and Confederate in that wicked Design. He also con∣secrated the Church of Gervasius and Protasius, erected and beautified at the Cost of a Lady named Vestina, whose Goods and Jewels bequeath∣ed by Will, were sold according to a just appraisement, and employed to that purpose. This Church was endowed with several Estates both in Houses and Land within and without the City, and the Cure of it, and that of S. Agnes, given to Leopardus and Paulinus two Presbyters. In his time lived Apollinarius Bishop of Laodicea, (from whom the A∣pollinarians* 1.140 had their name and original) a man vehement and subtil at Disputation; who maintained, that our Saviour at his Incarnation took only a Body, not a Soul; but being press'd hard with Arguments to the contrary, he at length granted that he had indeed an animal Soul but not a rational one, that being supplied by his Divinity. An Opinion which had been before exploded by Damasus and Peter Bishop of Alex∣andria. But Martianus Bishop of Barcellona, a man eminent for his Chastity and Eloquence, was very Orthodox in matters of Faith, and a great opposer of the Novatian Heresie. Cyril also Bishop of Hierusa∣lem,* 1.141 who before had been several times deposed and as often restored; at length under Theodosius the Emperour held his Episcopal Dignity peaceably and without interruption eight years together, and became a great Writer. Euzoius, who in his youth had been Condisciple to Gre∣gory Nazianzen at Coesarea under Thespesius the Rhetorician, took a vast deal of pains in amending and rectifying the corrupted Copies of the Works of Origen and Pamphilus, and was himself a considerable Au∣thor. At the same time Hieronymus a Presbyter living in Bethlehem, was a very successful propagator of Christianity, as appears by his Writings. Now also the Synod of Bourdeaux condemned the Doctrine of Priscillian, an Heresie patch'd up out of the Tenets of the Gnosticks and Manichees, of whom we have spoken above. Our Innocentius, ha∣ving at four Ordinations made thirty Presbyters, twelve Deacons, fifty four Bishops, died and was buried July the 28th. He sat in the Chair fifteen years, two months, twenty five days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty two days.

ZOSIMUS.

ZOSIMUS, a Grecian, his Fathers name Abraham, lived du∣ring the Reign of Arcadius and Honorius, who succeeded their Father Theodosius in the Empire.

These divided the Government between them, Arcadius ruling in the* 1.142 East, and Honorius in the West. Though Theodosius had left them to the Tuition of three of his Generals, who as their Guardians and Pro∣tectours were to manage Affairs in their Minority; Russinus in the East, Stilico in the West, and Gildo in Africa. But they moved with Ambi∣tion and a thirst after greatness, and not doubting to get the advantage of the young Princes, set up every one for himself. Against Gildo, who was engag'd in a Rebellion in Afrique, his injured and incensed Brother Mascezel is sent with an Army, and soon defeats and puts him to flight, who not long after dieth either through grief or by poyson. And Ma∣scezel himself, being so puffed up with this success, that he falls into a great contempt of God and cruelty towards men, is killed by his own Soldiers. Russinus also, who endeavoured to possess himself of the Em∣pire of the East, is surprized and punish'd by Arcadius. At this time Rhadaguisus King of the Goths invaded Italy, and lay'd all waste with fire and Sword where ever he came; but by the Roman Army under the Command of Stilico, he was vanquish'd and slain on the Mountains of Fiesoli. Him Alaricus succeeded, whom Stilico, to work his own ambitious designs, very much countenanced and assisted, when he might have conquer'd him. But in the end Alaricus being now at Polentia, on his way to Gaul, part of which Honorius had granted to him and his followers to inhabit, had disturbance given him by one Saul, an He∣brew by birth and Religion, whom Stilico to the foul breach of Articles had sent with a Party for that purpose. It was an easie matter to surprize and disorder the Goths, who little suspected any such Practices, and were peaceably celebrating the Feast of Easter. But the day following Alaricus engaging with them slew Saul, and made an universal slaughter of his men, and then changing his former course towards Gaul, moves against Stilico and the Roman Army. These he overcame, and then af∣ter a long and grievous Siege, takes the City of Rome it self, Anno U. C. MCLXIIII. A. C. CCCCXII. Notwithstanding this Success Alaricus exercised so much Moderation and Clemency, that he commanded his Soldiers to put as few to the Sword as might be, and particularly to spare all that should fly for refuge to the Churches of S. Peter and S. Paul. After three days Plunder he leaves the City, (which had suffered less damage than was thought for, very little of it being burnt) and marches against the Lucani and Bruti, and having taken and sacked Cosenza, he there dies. Whereupon the Goths with one consent made his kinsman Athaulphus his Successour, who returning to Rome with his Army, was so wrought upon by the Emperour Honorius's Sister Gal∣la Placidia whom he had married, that he restrained his Soldiers from committing any farther outrages, and left the City to its own Government. He had it certainly once in his purpose to have razed

to the ground the then City of Rome, and to have built a new one which he would have called Gotthia, and have left to the ensuing Emperours his own Name, so that they should not any longer have had the Title of Augusti, but Athaulphi. But Placidia not only brought his mind off from that project; but also prevailed with him to enter into a League with Honorius and Theodosius the second, the Son of Arcadius de∣ceased.

Zosimus, notwithstanding all these disturbances made several Eccle∣siastical Constitutions; allowed the blessing of Wax-Tapers on the Satur∣day before Easter in the several Parishes; forbad the Clergy to frequent publick Drinking-houses, (though allowing them all innocent liberty among themselves,) or any Servant to be made a Clergy-man, because that Order ought to consist of none but free and ingenuous persons. Where∣as now not only Servants and Bastards, but the vile off-spring of the most flagitious Parents are admitted to that Dignity; whose Enormi∣ties will certainly at long-run prove fatal to the Church. 'Tis said that Zosimus at this time sent Faustinus a Bishop, and two Presbyters of the City to the Council of Carthage, by them declaring, that no Debates concerning Ecclesiastical Affairs ought to be managed any where without permission of the Church of Rome. During his Pontificate lived Lucius a Bishop of the Arian Faction, who wrote certain Books upon several Sub∣jects. Diodorus also Bishop of Tarsus, during his being a Presbyter of Antioch was a great Writer; following the sense of Eusebius, but not able to reach his style for want of skill in secular Learning. Tiberianus likewise who had been accused together with Priscillian, wrote an Apology to free himself from the suspicion of Heresie. Euagrius, a man of smart and brisk parts, translated into Latin the Life of S. Anthony written in Greek by Athanasius. Ambrosius of Alexandria, a Scholar of Didymus wrote a large Volume against Apollinarius. At this time flourished those two famous Bishops, Theophilus of Alexandria, and John of Constantinople, for the greatness of his Eloquence deservedly surnamed Chrysostom; who so far prevailed upon Theodorus and Maximus two Condisciples of his, that they left their Masters Libanius the Rhetorician, and Andragatius the Philosopher, and became Proselytes to Christianity. This Libanius ly∣ing now at the point of death, being asked whom he would leave suc∣sessour in his School; made answer, that he desired no other than Chry∣sosiom, were he not a Christian. At this time the Decrees of the Coun∣cil of Carthage being sent to Zosimus, were by him confirmed, and thereby the Pelagian Heresie condemned throughout the World. Some tell us, that Petronius Bishop of Bononia, and Possidonius an Afri∣can Bishop, had now gain'd a mighty reputation for Sanctity; that Pri∣masius wrote largely against the Heresies to Bishop Fortunatus; and that Proba, Wife to Adelphus the Proconsul, composed an Historical Poem of our Saviours Life, consisting wholly of Virgilian Verse; though others attribute the honour of this performance to Eudocia Empress of Theo∣dosius the younger. But certainly the most learned person of the Age he lived in, was Augustinus, Saint Ambrose his Convert, Bishop of Hip∣po in Africa, a most strenuous Defender of the Christian Faith both in Discourse and Writing. As for Zosimus, having ordained ten Presby∣ters, three Deacons, eight Bishops, he died, and was buried in the Via Tiburtina, near the body of Saint Laurence the Martyr, December 26th.

He sat in the Chair one year, three months, twelve days, and by his death the See was vacant eleven days.

BONIFACIUS I.

BONIFACE, a Roman, Son of Jucundus a Presbyter, was* 1.143 Bishop in the time of Honorius.

At this time a great dissention 〈◊〉〈◊〉 among the Clergy; for though Boniface was chosen Bishop in one Church of the City 〈◊〉〈◊〉 one Party, yet Eulalius was elected and set up against him by a contrary Faction in another. This when Honorius, who was now at Milain, came to understand, at the Solicitation of 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Placidia and her Son Valentiman, they were both banish'd the City. But about seven months after 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was re-call'd, and confirmed in the Ponti∣fical Dignity.

In the mean time Athaulphus dying, Vallias was made King of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 being terrified by the Judgments inflicted on his People, restored Placidia, whom he had always used very honourably, to her Brother 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and entred into a League with him, giving very good Hostages for the confirmation of it; as did also the Alanes, Vandals and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. This I lacidia Henorius gave in marriage to Constantius whom he had declared 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who had by her a Son named Valentinian; but she being afterwards banish'd by her Brother, went into the East with her Sons 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Valentinian.

Our Bonisace ordained, that no Woman, though a Nun, should touch the consecrated Pall or Incense; and that no Servant, or Debtor should be admitted into the Clergy. Moreover, he built an Oratory upon the ground where S. Felicitas the Martyr was buried, and very much adorn∣ed her Tomb. During his Pontificate flourished divers famous men, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Presbyter, Son of Eusebius, born at a Town called* 1.144 〈◊〉〈◊〉, seated in the Confines of Dalmatia and Hungaria, but demo∣lished by the Goths. It is not to my purpose to rehearse how great bene∣fit the Church of God reaped from his Life and Writings, since he is known to have been a person of extraordinary 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and his Works are had in so great honour and esteem, that no Author is more read by learned Men than he. He died at Bethlehem on the last day of Septem∣ber in the ninety first year of his Age. Besides him there were also Ge∣lasius, Successour to Euzoius in the Bishoprick of Caesarea Palestinae, a man of excellent Parts; Dexter, Son of Pacianus, who compiled an Hi∣story inscribed to S. Hierem; Amphilochius, who wrote concerning the Holy Ghost in an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 style; and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, commended by S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his learned Book of the Destruction of 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 'Tis said also that at this time Lucianus a Preshyter, directed by a divine Revelation, found out the Sepulchres of S. Stephen the Protomartyr, and Gamaliel S. Paul's Master, of which he gave an account to all the Churches by an Epistle in Greek, which was afterwards translated into Latin by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and sent to Orosius. Some likewise tell us, that John Cassianus and Maximine two very learned Men lived in this Age; but though it be

doubtful of them, it is not so concerning Eutropius S. Austin's Scholar, who in a handsom style Epitomised the Roman History from the building of the City to his own times; and who moreover wrote to his two Sisters, Recluses, concerning Chastity, and the Love of Religion; to whom we may add Juvenal the Bishop of Constantinople, and Heros, a Disciple of S. Martin, the wrongfully deposed Bishop of Arles, both men of great reputation for Sanctity. As for Boniface himself, having at one Ordination made thirteen Presbyters, three Deacons, thirty six Bishops, he died October the 25th, and was buried in the Via Salaria, near the body of S. Felicitas the Martyr. He fat in the Chair three years, eight months, sevendays; Boniface being dead, some of the Clergy recall'd Eulalius, but he either through indignation at his former re∣pulse, or from contempt of Worldly greatness, disdained the revocation, and died the year following. The See was then vacant nine days.

CAELESTINUS I.

CAELESTINE, a Campanian, lived in the times of Theodo∣sius the younger.

This Theodosius, upon the death of that excellent Prince Ho∣norius,* 1.145 creates the Son of his Aunt Placidia, Valentinian, Coesar, and commits to his charge the Western Empire. Who being immediately by the universal consent of all Italy acknowledged their Emperour, and actually entring upon the Government at Ravenna, was wonderfully prosperous in subduing the Enemies of the Roman State, and particu∣larly John the Usurper. In the mean time the Vandals, Alemans and Goths, a barbarous and salvage people, passing over out of Spain into Africa, under the conduct of their King Gensericus, not only miserably depopulated and harrassed that Province with Fire and Sword, but also corrupted the Catholick Faith there with the mixture of Arianism, and banish'd some Orthodox Bishops; during which Troubles S. Augustine Bishop of Hippo died in the third month of the Siege of that City Au∣gust 28. in the seventy seventh year of his Age. The Vandals having taken Carthage, fail'd to Sicily, and made the like havock in that Island; as also did the Picts and Scots in the Island of Britain. In this Extre∣mity the Britains implored the Aid of Aetius a Patrician and a famous Soldier, but he not only denied them his assistance; but having other ambitious Designs to carry on, solicited the Huns to invade Italy. The Britains being thus deserted by Aetius, call over the Saxons or English to their help, whom they soon found more their Enemies than Assi∣stants; for being in a little time over run by them, they lost both their Countrey and their Name. While these things were transacting, Theo∣dosius dying at Constantinople in the twenty seventh year of his and his Uncle Honorius's Reign, Bleda and Attila two Brothers, Kings of the Hunns, invading Illyricum, lay'd waste, and burn'd all places to which they came.

Notwithstanding our Coelestine ordained several Rites appertaining to divine Worship; as that, besides the Epistle and Gospel, before the Mass the Psalms of David should be sung by all alternately. Martinus Cassinas tells us, that the Psalm Judica me Deus, Give sentence with me O God, and defend my cause, &c. which is used at the beginning of the Sa∣crifice, was introduced by him; as likewise the Gradual is ascribed to him. Many other Ecclesiastical Constitutions he made, to be seen in the Archives of the Church. He also dedicated and enriched the Julian Church; At this time Nestorius Bishop of Constantinople endeavoured to* 1.146 sow a new Errour in the Church, asserting, that Christ was born of the Virgin Mary a meer Man, and that the Divinity was conferred upon him of Merit. To this impious Doctrine Cyril Bishop of Alexandria and our Coelestine opposed themselves very strenuously. For in a Synod of two hundred Bishops held at Ephesus, Nestorius himself and the He∣resie denominated from him, together with the Pelagians who were great favourers of the Nestorian Party, were by universal consent condemned in thirteen Canons level'd against their foolish Opinions. Moreover, Coele∣stine sent Germanus Bishop of Auxerre into England to oppose the Pela∣gian Heresie, and reduce the Inhabitants to the Orthodox Faith; and Palladius, whom he had made a Bishop to the Scots, who desired to be in∣structed in the Christian Religion. And indeed it cannot be denied but that by his endeavours, and the industry of those whom he employ∣ed to that purpose, a great part of the West were converted to Christia∣nity. 'Tis said, that at this time the Devil assumed humane shape, and pretended himself to be Moses, and imposed upon a multitude of Jews by undertaking to conduct them out of the Island of Crete into the Land of Promise through the Sea as upon dry Land, in imitation of the ancient Miracle wrought for that People at the red Sea. Many of them follow'd this false Moses, and perished in the Waters; those only being reported to have been saved who presently own'd Christ to be the true God. Our Coelestine having at three Decembrian Ordinations, made thirty two Presbyters, twelve Deacons, sixty two Bishops, died, and was buried in the Coemetery of Priscilla in the Via Salaria, April the 6th. He sat in the Chair eight years, ten months, seventeen days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty one days.

SIXTUS III.

SIXTUS, the third, a Roman, Son of Sixtus, lived in the time of Valentinian.

Who, being Governour of the Western Empire, entred into a* 1.147 League with Gensericus King of the Vandals, whom he permitted to in∣habit part of Africa, confining themselves within certain Boundaries agreed upon between them. Genseric being afterwards instigated by the Arians, became very zealous in propagating their Errours, and vio∣lently persecuted the Orthodox Bishops. And Valentinian going to Con∣stantinople, and there marrying Theodosius's Daughter, the Vandals in the mean time, under Genseric's Conduct, re-took and sack'd Carthage in

the five hundred eighty fourth year since its first being in the hands of the Romans. While these things weret ransacting in Afric, Attila King of the Huns, not contented to have invaded the two Hungaries, miserably harasses Macedonia, Mysia, Achaia and the Thraces; and then, that he might have no sharer in the Kingdom, puts to death his Brother Bleda. Soon after his growing ambition prompts him to endeavour the gaining of the Western Empire; and therefore getting together in a very little time a great Army, he begins his March upon that Design. This Aeti∣us having intelligence of, forthwith sends Ambassadours to Tholouse to King Theodorick to strike up a Peace; with whom so strict a League was concluded, that they both jointly engage in the War against Attila, at a common charge and with equal Forces. The Romans and Theodorick had for their Auxiliaries, the Alanes, Burgundians, Franks, Saxons, and indeed almost all the people of the West. At length Attila comes upon them in the Fields of Catalaunia; and Battel is joyn'd with great Valour and Resolution on either side. The Fight was long and sharp, a Voice being over-heard, none knowing from whence it came, was the occasion of putting an end to the Dispute. In this Engagement were slain on both sides eighteen thousand men; neither Army flying or giving ground. And yet 'tis said that Theodorick, Father of King Thurismond, was killed in this Action.

Sixtus had not long enjoyed the Pontificate, before he was publickly accused by one Bassus; but in a Synod of fifty seven Bishops he made such a Defence of himself, that he was by them all with one consent ac∣quitted. Bassus his false Accuser, was with the consent of Valentinian and his Mother Placidia, excommunicated and condemn'd to banishment, but with this compassionate provision, that at the point of death the Via∣ticum of the Blessed Sacrament should be denied him; the forfeiture of his Estate, was adjudged not to the Emperour, but the Church. 'Tis said, that in the third month of his Exile he died, and that our Bishop Six∣tus did with his own hands wrap up and embalm his Corps, and then bury it in S. Peters Church. Moreover, Sixtus repaired and enlarged the Church of the Blessed Virgin, which was anciently called by the name of Liberius, near the Market place of Livia, then had the name of S. Mary at the Manger, and last of all was called S. Maries the Geeat. That Sixtus did very much beautifie and make great additions to it, appears from the Inscription on the front of the first Arch in these words, Xystus Episcopus Plebi Dei; for according to the Greek Ortho∣graphy the name begins with X and y, though by Custom it is now written Sixtus with S and i. To this Church that Bishop was very libe∣ral and munificent; among other instances adorning with Porphyry stone the Ambo or Desk where the Gospel and Epistles are read. Besides what he did himself, at his persuasion the Emperour Valentinian also was very liberal in works of this nature. For over the Confessory of S. Peter, which he richly adorned, he placed the Image of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Saviour of Gold set with Jewels, and renewed those Silver Ornaments in the Cu∣pola of the Lateran Church which the Goths had taken away. Some are of an Opinion that in his time one Peter, a Roman Presbyter, by Nation a Sclavonian, built the Church of S. Sabina upon the Aventine, not far from the Monastery of S. Boniface, where S. Alexius is interred. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 I rather think this to have been done in the Pontificate of Coelestine

the first, as appears from an Inscription in Heroick Verse, yet remain∣ing, which expresses as much. 'Tis said also, that at this time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Eusebius of Cremona and Philip, two Scholars of S. Hierom, both very elegant Writers; as also Eucherius Bishop of Lyons, a man of great Learn∣ing and Eloquence; and Hilarius Bishop of Arles, a pious Man, and of no mean parts. Our Sixtus having employed all his Estate in the build∣ing and adorning of Churches, and relieving the poor, and having made twenty eight Presbyters, twelve Deacons, fifty two Bishops, died, and was buried in a Vault in the Via Tiburtina, near the body of S. Lau∣rence. He was in the Chair eight years, nine days, and by his death the See was vacant twenty two days.

LEO I.

LEO, a Tuscan, Son of Quintianus, lived at the time when At∣tila, having return'd into Hungary from the Fight of Catalonia, and there recruited his Army, invaded Italy, and first set down before Aquileia a Frontier City of that Province, which held out a Siege 〈◊〉〈◊〉 three years. Despairing hereupon of success, he was just about to raise the Leaguer, when observing the Storks to carry their young ones out of the City into the Fields, being encouraged by this Omen, he renews his Batteries, and making a fierce assault, at length takes the miserable City, sacks and burns it, sparing neither Age nor Sex, but acting agreeably to the Title he assum'd to himself of being God's Scourge. The Huns having hereby gain'd an Inlet into Italy, over-run all the Countrey about Venice, possessing themselves of the Cities, and demolishing Milain and Pavia. From hence Attila marching towards Rome, and being come to the place where the Menzo runs into the Po, ready to pass the River, the holy Bishop Leo, out of a tender sense of the calamitous state of Italy and of the City of Rome, and with the ad∣vice of Valentinian, goes forth and meets him, persuading him not to proceed any farther, but to take warning by Alaricus, who soon after his taking that City was by the Judgment of God removed out of the World. Attila takes the good Bishops Counsel, being moved thereun∣to by a Vision which he saw while they were discoursing together, of two men (supposed to be S. Peter and S. Paul) brandishing their na∣ked swords over his head, and threatning him with death, if he were refractory. Desisting therefore from his design, he returns into Hun∣gary, where not long after he was choaked with his own bloud, vio∣lently breaking out at his Nostrils, through excess of drinking.

Leo returning to the City, applyes himself wholly to the defence of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Faith, which was now violently opposed by several kinds of Hereticks, but especially by the Nestorians and Eutychians. Nesto∣rius 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Constantinople, affirmed the Blessed Virgin to be Mother not of God, but of Man only, that so he might make the Humanity and Divinity of Christ to be two distinct persons, one the Son of God, the other the Son of Man. But Eutyches Abbot of Constantinople, that he might broach an Heresie in contradiction to the former, utterly con∣founded

the divine and humane Nature of Christ, asserting them to be one, and not at all to be distinguished. This Heresie being condemned by Flavianus Bishop of Constantinople, with the consent of Theodosius, a Synod is called at Ephesus, in which, Dioscorus Bishop of Alexandria being President, Eutyches was restored, and Flavianus censured. But Theodosius dying, and his successour Marcianus proving a Friend to the Orthodox Doctrine, Leo calls a Council at Chalcedon, wherein by the authority of six hundred and thirty Bishops, it was decreed as an Ar∣ticle of Faith, that there are two Natures in Christ, and that one and the same Christ is God and Man; by which consequently both Nesto∣rius and Eutyches, the pestilent Patron of the Manichees were condemn∣ed. Moreover, the Books of the Manichees were publickly burnt; and the pride and heretical Opinions of Dioscorus discountenanced and sup∣press'd. In the mean time Valentinian being treacherously murdered, Maximus usurps the Empire, and against her will marries Eudoxia the Widow of Valentinian. Upon this occasion the Vandals being called out of Afric, Genseric being their Leader, force their entrance into the City of Rome, throw the Body of Maximus, who had been kill'd in the Tumult by one Ursus a Roman Soldier, into the River Tyber, plunder and burn the City, pillage the Churches and refuse to hearken to Bishop Leo begging them, what ever spoils they carried away, only to spare the City it self and the Temples. However, on the fourteenth day from their entrance into Rome, they left it, and taking away with them Eudoxia and her Daughter, with a great number of other Cap∣tives, they return'd into Africa. Leo being now very intent upon ma∣king good the damages sustain'd from this People, prevailed upon De∣metria, a pious Virgin, to build upon her own ground in the Via Latina three miles from the City a Church to S. Stephen; and did the same himself in the Via Appia in honour to S. Cornelius. The Churches which had been in any part ruined, he repaired; and those of the sacred Vessels belonging to them, which had been bruised and broken, he caused to be mended, and those which had been taken away to be made anew; Moreover, he built three Apartments in the Churches of S. John, S. Peter and S. Paul; appoint∣ed certain of the Roman Clergy, whom he called Cubicularii to keep and take charge of the Sepulchres of the Apostles; built a Monastery near S. Pe∣ters; introduced into the Canon of the Mass, the Clause, Hoc sanctum sa∣crificium, this holy Sacrifice, &c. and ordained, that no Recluse should be capable of receiving the Consecrated Veils, unless it did appear that she had preserv'd her Chastity spotless for the space of forty years. But while the good man was employed in these things, there started up of a sudden the Heresie of the Acephali, so called because they were a com∣pany* 1.148 of foolish, undisciplin'd Schismaticks, or, if it be not a quibble, because they wanted both Brains and Head. These men decried the Council of Chalcedon, denied the propriety of two Substances in Christ, and asserted, that there could be but one Nature in one Person. But our Leo abundantly confuted their absurd Doctrines in his elegant and learned Epistles written to the Faithful upon that Argument. Men of Note in his time, were Paulinus Bishop of Nola, Prosper of Aquitain, a learned man, and Mamercus Bishop of Vienne,; who, as 'tis said, was the first that appointed processionary Supplications, or Litanies, upon the occasion of the frequent Earthquakes with which Gaul was at that

time very much afflicted. To conclude, Leo having ordained eighty one Presbyters, thirty one Deacons, and eighty one Bishops, died, and was buried in the Vatican near S. Peter, April the 10th. He sat in the Chair twenty one years, one month, thirteen days, and by his death the See was vacant eight days.

HILARIUS I.

HILARIUS, a Sardinian, the Son of Crispinus, continued in the Chair till the time of the Emperour Leo,

Who being chosen Emperour upon the death of Marcianus,* 1.149 creates his Son, of his own name, Augustus. During his Reign the Ro∣man State suffered very much by reason of certain Ambitious men, who endeavoured to get the Government into their own hands. And Gen∣seric the Vandal King being tempted with so fair an opportunity, sails out of Afrique into Italy with design to gain the Empire for himself. Leo having intelligence hereof, sends Basilicus a Patrician, with a mighty Fleet, to the Assistance of Anthemius the Emperour of the West; These two with joint force and courage meet Genseric near Populonia, and force him to an Engagement at Sea, in which being routed with a great slaughter of his men, he was glad to make an inglorious flight into A∣frica again. In the mean time Ricimer a Patrician, having on the Moun∣tains of Trent conquer'd Biorgus King of the Alanes, and being puff'd up with that Victory, was purposed to attempt the City of Rome, had not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop of Pavia made him and Anthemius Friends.

Hilary, notwithstanding this confused state of things, did not neglect the care of Ecclesiastical Affairs. For he ordained, that no Bishop should chuse his own Successour; (a Constitution which belongs as well to all other Ecclesiastical Degrees as that of Episcopacy) he also made a Decretal which he dispersed throughout Christendom; and wrote certain Epistles concerning the Catholick Faith, by which the three Synods of Nice, Ephesus, and Chalcedon were confirmed, and the Here∣ticks Eutyches, Nestorius, and Dioscorus, with their Adherents, condem∣ned. In the Baptistery of the Lateran Church he built three Oratories, which were adorned with Gold and precious Stones, their Gates of Brass covered with wrought Silver; those he dedicated to S. John Bap∣tist, S. John Evangelist, and S. Cross. In the last of these was reposited some of the wood of the Cross, nclosed in Gold and set with Jewels; and a Golden Agnus upon a Pillar of Onyx. He added moreover the Oratory of S. Stephen, built two Libraries adjoyning, and founded a Monastery. I shall not here recite the almost numberless Donations which he made to several Churches, of Gold, Silver, Marble, and Jewels. Some tell us, that Germanus Bishop of Auxerre, and Lupus Bi∣shop of Troyes lived in his time, both great supporters of the Christian cause, which was now very much undermined by the endeavours of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Pelagians. Gennadius also Bishop of Constantinople did great service to the Church by the integrity of his Life and the excel∣lency of his Parts and Learning. During the Pontificate of our Hilary,

Victorinus of Aquitain, a famous Arithmetician, reduced the Easter ac∣count* 1.150 to the course of the Moon; far out-doing Eusebius and Theophi∣lus, who had attempted it before him. And among those that flou∣rished at this time, by some is reckoned Merline the famous English* 1.151 Bard, concerning whom we are told more than enough. As for Hi∣lary himself, having performed the duty of a good Bishop, both in build∣ing and adorning of Churches, and also in Teaching, Admonishing, Cen∣suring and giving Alms where need required; and having also ordained twenty five Presbyters, five Deacons, twenty two Bishops; he died, and was buried in the Sepulchre of S. Laurence, near the body of Bishop Sixtus. He sat in the Chair seven years, three months, ten days, and by his death the See was vacant ten days.

SIMPICIUS I.

SIMPLICIUS, Son of Castinus, born at Tivoli, was Bi∣shop during the Reigns of Leo the second, and Zeno.

For Leo the first falling sick, makes choice of Leo the second,* 1.152 Son of Zeno Isauricus, and his own Nephew by Ariadne his Sister, to be his Successour; who not long after being seiz'd by a violent Distemper, and apprehending himself to be at the point of death, leaves the Em∣pire to his Father Zeno. In the mean time Odoacer invading Italy with a great Army of his Heruli and Turingians, conquers and takes Priso∣ner Orestes, a Noble Roman, near Pavia, and then causes him to be put to death in the sight of his whole Army at Placentia. Hereupon Zeno pitying the calamitous state of Italy, speedily sends Theodoric King of the Goths, a man whom he had before very much esteem'd, with a mighty force to oppose him, who having in a pitch'd Battel not far from Aquileia near the River Sontio overcome Odoacer's Captains, and having oftentimes the like success against Odoacer himself, at length he besieg'd him three years together in Ravenna, and reduc'd him to that extremity, that, with the advice of John the Bishop of that City, he consented to admit Theodoric as his Partner in the Empire. But the day following both Odoacer and his Son, were contrary to promise and agreement slain; by which means Theodorick possess'd himself of the Government of all Italy without any opposition.

In the mean time Simplicius dedicated the Churches of S. Stephen the Protomartyr on Mons Caolius, and that of S. Andrew the Apostle not far from S. Maries the Great; in which there appear to this day some foot∣steps of Antiquity, which I have many a time beheld with sorrow for their neglect, to whose charge such noble piles of building now ready to fall are committed, That this Church was of his founding appears by certain Verses wrought in Mosaick work which I have seen in it. He dedicated also another Church to S. Stephen near the Licinian Palace, where the Virgins body had been buried. He also appointed the Weekly-waitings of the Presbyters in their turns at the Churches of S. Peter, S. Paul, and S. Laurence the Martyr, for the receiving of Pe∣nitents, and baptizing of Proselytes. Moreover, he divided the City

among the Presbyters into five Precincts or Regions; the first of S. Pe∣ter, 2. S. Paul, 3. S. Laurence, 4. S. John Lateran, 5. S. Maria Maggiore. He also ordained, that no Clergy-man should hold a Benefice of any Lay-man, a Constitution which was afterwards confirm'd by Gregory and other Popes. At this time the Bishop of Rome's Primacy was countenanced by the Letters of Acacius Bishop of Constantinople, and Ti∣mothy a learned man, in which they beg him to censure Peter Mog Bi∣shop of Alexandria, an assertour of the Eutychian Heresie. Which was accordingly done, but with Proviso, that he should be receiv'd into the Communion of the Church again, if within a certain time prefix'd he re∣tracted his Errours. Some say, that during his Pontificate lived Remi∣gius Bishop of Reims, who (as History tells us) baptized Clodoveus the French King. Now also Theodorus Bishop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Syria wrote largely against Eutyches, and compiled ten Books of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 History in imitation of Eusebius Coesariensis. At this time almost all Egypt was infected with the heretical Doctrine of Dioscorus, concerning whom we have already spoken; and Huneric King of the Vandals, a Zealot 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Fa∣ction, raised a Persecution against the Orthodox Christians in Afrique. Upon this Eudocia, Niece to Theodosius, a Catholick Lady, and Wife to Huneric, left her heretical Husband upon pretence of a Pilgrimage to Hierusalem to perform a Vow which she had made; but upon so long a Journey, the effect of which prov'd intolerable to the tenderness of her sex, she there soon died. 'Tis said, that at this time were found the bones of the Prophet Elisha, which were carried into Alexandria; as al∣so the body of S. Barnabas the Apostle, together with the Gospel of S. Matthew, written with his own hand. As for Simplicius himself, having by his Constitutions and Donations very muchpromoted the interest of the Church of Rome, and having at several Ordinations made fifty eight Presbyters, eleven Deacons, eighty six Bishops, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church on the second day of March; He was inthe Chair fifteen years, one month, seven days, and by his death the See was va∣cant twenty six days.

FELIX III.

FELIX, by birth a Roman, Son of Felix a Presbyter was Bi∣shop from the time of Odoacer, whose power in Italy lasted four∣teen years, till the Reign of Theodoric.

Who though he made Ravenna the seat of the Empire, yet the City* 1.153 of Rome was much indebted to his Bounty. For he re-built the Sepulchre of Octavius, exhibited shews to the people according to ancient custom, repaired the publick Buildings and Churches, and indeed neglected no∣thing that became a good and generous Prince. And to confirm and esta∣blish the Empire, he married Andefleda Daughter of Clodoveus King of France, and gave in marriage his Sister to Huneric King of the Vandals, and one of his Daughters to Alaric King of the Visigoths, and the other to King Gondibate.

Felix now fully understanding that Peter Mog the Eutychian, who had been banished for his heretical Opinions upon the complaint and at the desire of Acacius, was by the same Acacius recall'd from Exile, su∣spected that there was a private Agreement between them, and there∣fore excommunicated them both by the authority of the Apostolick See, which was confirm'd in a Synod of the Orthodox. But three years af∣ter the Emperour Zeno testifying that they were penitent, Felix sends two Bishops, Messenus and Vitalis, with full power, upon enquiry into the truth of their repentance, to absolve them. These Legates arriving at the City Heraclea, were soon corrupted with bribes, and neglected to act according to their Commission. Whereupon Felix, out of a just indignation, having first called a Council upon that occasion, excom∣municates them too, as Simoniacks and betrayers of the trust reposed in them. Though Messenus, who confess'd his fault, and begg'd time to evince the sincerity of his repentance, had it accordingly granted him. The same Felix also built the Church of S. Agapetus, near that of S. Lau∣rence, and ordained that Churches should be consecrated by none but Bishops. 'Tis said, that at this time Theodorus a Greek Presbyter wrote against the Hereticks a Book of the Harmony of the Old and new Te∣stament; and some reckon among the men of Note in this Age, the Learned and famous Divine John Damascene, who wrote the Book of Sen∣tences, imitating therein Gregory Nazianzene, Gregory Nyssene, and Didymus of Alexandria, and compiled also certain Treatises of Medicin, in which he gives an account of the Causes and Cure of Diseases. Our Felix having at two Decembrian Ordinations made twenty eight Presbyters, five Deacons, thirty Bishops; died, and was buried in the Church of S. Paul. He sat in the Chair eight years, eleven months, seventeen days, and by his death the See was vacant five days.

GELASIUS I.

GELASIUS, an African, Son of Valerius, was Bishop of Rome at the time when Theodoric made War upon his Wives Fa∣ther* 1.154 Clodoveus the French King, for that he had slain his Daugh∣ter's Husband Alaric King of the Visigoths, and seiz'd Gascoigne. They were both allied to him by marriage; but the cause of Alaric seem'd to him the more just, and therefore he preferr'd his Son-in-law, before his Father-in-law. And gaining the Victory over the French in a very important Battel, he recovers Gascoigne, and undertakes the present Government of it, till Almaric the son of Alaric should come to Age. The same Theodoric to his Conquest of Italy added that of Sicily, Dal∣matia, Liburnia, Illyricum, Gallia Narbonensis, and Burgundy. He also walled round the City of Trent, and to secure Italy from a forein In∣vasion, upon the Frontiers of it near Aost placed the Heruli, whose King being yet a Minor he made his adopted Son.

Gelasius in the mean time condemns to banishment all the Manichees that should be found in the City, and causes their books to be pub∣lickly burnt near S. Mary's Church. And being satisfied of the repen∣tance

of Messenus, who had given in his Retractation in Writing, at the request of the Synod he absolved him, and restored him to his Bishop∣rick. But having intelligence that several murthers and other notori∣ous outrages were committed in the Greek Churches by the factious fol∣lowers of Peter Mog and Acacius, he forthwith sends his Legates thi∣ther, with Commission to Excommunicate for ever all those who did not immediately recant their Errours; a new and unusual severity, where∣as the Primitive Church was wont to wait long in hopes that Separa∣tists would at length return to her Bosom. At this time John Bishop of Alexandria, an Orthodox Prelate, and who had been very much persecuted by these seditious people, fled for resuge to the Bishop of Rome, who very kindly and courteously received him. The Churches which Gelasius consecrated were, that of S. Euphemia the Martyr in Tivoli, that of S. Nicander and Eleutherius in the Via Labicana, and that of S. Mary in the Via Laurentina, twenty miles from Rome. He had a great love and honour for the Clergy, and was very liberal and charitable to the poor. He delivered the City of Rome from many dangers, and particularly from that of dearth and scarcity. He com∣posed Hymns in imitation of S. Ambrose, published five Books against Eutyches and Nestorius, and two against Arius, made very elegant and grave Orations, and wrote weighty and learned Epistles to his Friends of the houshold of Faith; all which Works of his are at this time to be seen in the publick Libraries. Some tell us that he Excommunicated Anastasius, successour to Zeno in the Eastern Empire, for favouring Aca∣cius and other Hereticks; which is an argument as clear as the Sun, that the Bishop of Rome has power to Excommunicate any Prince who is erroneous in the Faith, if he continue refractary after Admonition. The same course likewise he took with the Vandals and their King, who being infected with the Arian Heresie, proved now very cruel and bar∣barous persecutours of the Orthodox. At the beginning of his Ponti∣ficate lived Germanus and Epiphanius, the latter Bishop of Pavia, the former of Capua; men who by the authority which the Sanctity of their Lives had gain'd them, and by their humble and obliging deportment, wrought so much upon the minds of the barbarous Invadors, that af∣flicted Italy fared the better for their sakes. At the same time also Lan∣nociatus Abbat of Chartres, with Aurelianus and Mezentius of Poictiers, persons of great Piety and Learning, gain'd so much ground in Gaul, that they persuaded Clodoveus the French King, and his Queen Crocildis to be∣come Christians, and to undertake the protection of the Catholick Faith throughout their Dominions; though some attribute this honour to Remigius, as hath been already said. Gelasius having ordained thirty two Presbyters, two Deacons, sixty seven Bishops, died, and was bu∣ried in S. Peter's Church, November 21. He was in the Chair four years, eight months, seventeen days, and by his death the See was va∣cant seven days.

ANASTASIUS II.

ANASTASIUS the second, a Roman, Son of Fortunatus, was Contemporary with the Emperour Anastasius.

At which time Transamund, King of the Vandals, shut up the* 1.155 Churches of the Orthodox Clergy, and banished one hundred and twen∣ty Bishops into the Island of Sardinia. 'Tis reported also that one O∣lympius, an Arian Bishop, having publickly in the Baths at Carthage declared his detestation of the Doctrine of the Trinity, was immediate∣ly smitten and his body burnt with three flashes of Lightning. And when Barbas, another Bishop of the same Faction, was going to baptize a certain person in this form of words, Barbas baptizeth thee in the name of the Father, by the Son, and in the Holy Ghost, 'tis said, the Water disappeared; which Miracle so wrought upon the man who was to be baptized, that he immediately came over to the Orthodox.

It was this Bishop Anastasius, as some Writers tell us, who Excommu∣nicated the Emperour Anastasius for favouring Acacius; though after∣wards being himself seduced by the same Heretick, and endeavouring privately to recall him from Exile, he thereby very much alienated the minds of his Clergy, who for that reason, and also because without the consent of the Catholicks, he communicated with Photinus a Deacon of Thessalonica, and an assertour of the Acacian 〈◊〉〈◊〉, withdrew them∣selves from him. 'Tis generally reported, that the divine vengeance pur∣suing him for this Apostacy, he died suddenly, and some say that the par∣ticular manner of his death was, that going to ease Nature he purg'd out his Bowels into the Privy. In his time Fulgentius an African, Bishop of* 1.156 Ruspoe, though he were among the other Orthodox Bishops of Africa banish'd into Sardinia by Transamund, yet neglected nothing that might contribute to the propagating of the Catholick Faith, whether by Ex∣hortation, Preaching, or Admonition. He likewise published several Books of the Trinity, of Free-will, and the Rule of Faith; and besides the several elegant and grave Homilies he made to the people, he wrote against the Pelagian Heresie. The Learned Egesippus also, who com∣posed* 1.157 Monastical Constitutions, and in an elegant style wrote the Life of S. Severinus the Abbat was at this time very serviceable to the Church. Moreover, Faustus a Gallican Bishop was now a considerable Writer, but among all his Works the most in esteem was his Tract against Arius, wherein he maintains the persons in the Trinity to be Co-essential. He wrote also against those who asserted any created Being to be incorpo∣real, demonstrating both by the Judgment of the Fathers, and from the Testimonies of holy Writ, that God only is purely and properly incor∣poreal. But I shall here conclude the Pontificate of Anastasius, who at one Decembrian Ordination, having made twelve Presbyters, and sixteen Bishops, was buried in S. Peter's Church November 19. He sat in the Chair one year, ten months, twenty four days, and by his death the See was vacant four days.

SYMMACHUS I.

SYMMACHUS, a Sardinian, Son of Fortunatus, succeed∣ed Anastasius, though not without great Controversie and af∣ter a long bandying of two contrary Factions. For while one part of the Clergy chuse Symmachus in the Church of S. John 〈◊〉〈◊〉, another part of them in S. Maria Maggiore make choice of one Laurence; whereupon the Senate and people of Rome being divided into two Parties, the dissention rose to such an heighth, that to compromise the business, a Council was by mutual consent called at Ravenna; where the whole matter being discuss'd in the presence of Theodoric, he at length determined on the side of Symmachus, and confirmed him in the Pontificate, who by a singular act of Grace made his very Competitour Laurence Bishop of Nocera. Yet about four years after some busie and factious Clergy-men, being countenanced and assisted by Festus and Pro∣binus two of the Senatorian Order, set up for Laurence again; upon which King Theodoric was so highly displeas'd, that he sends Peter Bi∣shop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Rome, to depose them both and possess himself of the Chair. But Symmachus called a Synod of an hundred and twenty Bi∣shops, wherein with great presence of mind he purg'd himself of all things 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to his Charge, and by a general suffrage obtained the ba∣nishment of Laurence and Peter who had occasion'd all this mischief. Hereupon so great a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 arose in the City, that multitudes both of the Clergy and Laity were slain in all parts, not so much as the Mo∣nastick Virgins escaping. In this Tumult Gordianus a Presbyter and a very good man was kill'd in the Church of S. Peter ad Vincula; nor had an end been put to slaughter here, had not Faustus the Consul, in compassion to the Clergy, appear'd in Arms against Probinus the Author of so great a Calamity.

After this the Christians having some small respite, Clodoveus banish∣ing the Arian Hereticks, restores the Orthodox, and Constitutes Paris the Capital City of his Kingdom.

Symmachus at this time expell'd the Manichees out of the City, and caused their Books to be burn'd before the Gates of S. John Lateran. Several Churches he built from the ground, and several others he re∣pair'd and beautifi'd. That of S. Andrew the Apostle near S. Peters he entirely built, enriching it with divers Ornaments of Silver and Gold; and he adorn'd S. Peters it self and its Portico with chequer'd Marble, ma∣king the steps of Ascent into it more and larger than they were before. Moreover, he erected Episcopal Palaces. He built also the Church of S. Agatha the Martyr in the Via Aurelia, and that of S. Pancrace. He repaired and adorn'd with painting the Cupola of S. Pauls; and built from the foundations the Church of SS. Silvester and Martin; the Al∣tars of which he very richly adorned. He made also the steps that lead into the Church of S. John and S. Paul, and enlarged S. Michaels. He built from the ground the Oratories of Cosmus and Damianus, being assisted in that work by Albinus and Glaphyras, two men of principal Note. Besides this, near the Churches of S. Peter and S. Paul, he build∣ed

two Hospitals, making provision of all things necessary for the poor who should dwell in them. For he was in all respects very charitable and sent supplies of Money and Cloaths to the Bishops and other Clergy in Africa and Sardinia, who had suffered banishment for the profession of the true Religion. He repaired the Church of S. Felicitas, and the Cupola of that of S. Agnes which was decay'd and almost ready to fall. He also at his own charge redeemed multitudes of Captives in several Provinces. He ordained that on Sundays, and the * 1.158 Birth-days of the Martyrs the Hymn, Glory be to God on High should be sung, and indeed, left nothing undone which he thought might tend to the Glory of Almighty God. In his time Gennadius Bishop of Marseille, a great imitatour of S. Augustine, did good service to the Church. He wrote one Book against Heresies, wherein he shews what is necessary to every man in order to his Salvati∣on, and another de viris illustribus, in imitation of S. Hierom. As for Symma∣chus, having at several Ordinations made ninety Presbyters, sixteen Dea∣cons, one hundred twenty two Bishops, he died, and was buried in S. Pe∣ters Church July the 19th. He sat in the Chair fifteen years, six months, twenty two days, and by his death the See was vacant seven days.

HORMISDA I.

HORMISDA, the Son of Justus, born at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, lived in the time of Theodoric and Anastasius, as far as to the Consul∣ship of Boethius and Symmachus.

These two, upon suspicion of designing against his Go∣vernment, were by Theodoric at first banish'd, and afterwards impri∣soned. Boethius during his confinement wrote several things extant to* 1.159 this day, and translated and made Commentaries upon the greatest part of Aristotles Works. He was throughly skill'd in the Mathema∣ticks, as his Books of Musick and Arithmetick clearly demonstrate. But at length both he and Symmachus were put to death by the order of Theodoric. Some tell us, that the cause of Boethius his sufferings was the zeal he shewed in opposing the Arians, who were favoured by Theo∣doric; but I think the former Opinion to be more probable.

Hormisda, with the advice of Theodoric, held now a Provincial Synod at Rome, in which the Eutychians were again condemn'd by universal consent. He also sent Letters and Messengers to John Bishop of Constan∣tinople, admonishing him to renounce that Heresie, and to believe there are two Natures in Christ, the Divine and Humane. But John conti∣nued refractory, trusting to the interest he had with the Emperour Ana∣stasius, who not long after was struck dead by a Thunderbolt, which was believ'd to be a just Judgment upon him, both for his patronizing so pernicious an Heresie, and especially for his ill usage of the Legates sent to him by Hormisda, whom contrary to the Law of Nations he treated very contumeliously, and sent them home in a shattered leaky Vessel, ordering them to return directly into Italy without touching at any shore in Greece. 'Tis said, that he bid them tell the Bishop, that he

must know it to be the part of an Emperour to Command, not to obey the Dictates of the Bishop of Rome or any other. These Legates were Euodius Bishop of Pavia, Fortunatus Bishop of Catina, Venantius a Pres∣byter of Rome, and Vitalis a Deacon. Anastasius dying in the twenty se∣venth year of his Reign. Justine a Patron of the Catholick Faith suc∣ceeds* 1.160 him, who forthwith sends Ambassadours to the Bishop of Rome, to acknowledge the Authority of the Apostolick See, and to desire the Bishop to interpose his Ecclesiastical Power for the setling the peace of the Church. Whereupon Hormisda, with the consent of Theo∣doric, sends Germanus Bishop of Capua, John and Blandus Presbyters, and Felix and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Deacons his Legates to Justine, by whom they were receiv'd with all imaginable expressions and testimonies of Ho∣nour 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Respect, John the Bishop of Constantinople with multitudes of the Orthodox Clergy and other Persons of principal Note going forth, in Complement to meet them and congratulate their Arrival. But the followers of Acacius dreading their coming, had shut themselves up in a very strong Church, and upon Consultation what to do, sent Messen∣gers to the Emperour, declaring that they would by no means subscribe to the determination of the Apostolick See, unless an account were first given them why Acacius was Excommunicated. But Justine soon forc'd them out of the Church and City too; and Hormisda dealt in the same manner with the Manichees, who began to spring up afresh in Rome, whose Books he caused to be burn'd before the Gates of S. John La∣teran.

About this time Transamund King of the Vandals dying in Afric, his Son 〈◊〉〈◊〉, whom he had by the Captive Daughter of Valentinian, suc∣ceeded him in the Kingdom. He inherited none of his Fathers Er∣rours, but following the Counsel of his religious Mother, re-call'd all the Catholicks whom Transamund had banish'd, and permitted them the free exercise of their Religion. At this time also several rich Pre∣sents were sent to Rome for the Ornament of the Churches there by Clo∣doveus King of France and Justine the Emperour. King Theodoric also richly adorn'd the Church of S. Peter; nor was Hormisda himself be∣hind these Princes in bounty and munificence to the Church. Having setled things according to his mind, and ordained twenty one Presby∣ters, fifty five Bishops, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, Au∣gust the 6th, in the Consulship of Maximus. He sat in the Chair nine years, eighteen days, and by his death the See was vacant six days.

JOHN I.

IOHN by birth a Tuscan, Son of Constantius, was in the Chair from the Consulship of Maximus to that of Olybrius, in the time of King Theodoric and the Emperour Justine,

Who out of his great zeal for the Orthodox Faith, and that he might utterly extinguish the name of Hereticks, banish'd the Arians, and gave their Churches to the Catholicks. This was so highly resented by Theo∣doric, that he sends John himself with Theodorus and the two Agapeti

his Ambassadours to Justine to advise him to restore the Arians, or upon his refusal to let him know that he would pull down all the Catholick Churches in Italy. These Ambassadours were at first very kindly and honourably received. But having given an account of their Embassie, and finding Justine wholly averse to grant what they desired, they be∣took themselves to Tears and Prayers, humbly beseeching him to prevent the ruin of Italy and all the Orthodox Christians in it; by which means the good Prince was prevailed upon to recall the Arians, and to grant them a Toleration. Some write that it was in this Bishops time that Symmachus and Boethius were brought back from Exile, imprison'd, and slain by the cruelty and rage of Theodoric. However, certain it is that they were put to death by Theodoric's order; and it matters not much whether it were in the Pontificate of Hormisda or John. Which John returning from Constantinople, Theodoric was so highly incens'd against him for his agreement with the Emperour Justine both in Faith and manners, that it was a chance that he had not taken away his life immediately; but throw him into Prison he did at Ravenna, where through stench and nastiness and want of necessary provision, the good man at length died. A Cruelty for which the divine Vengeance sorely punished Theodoric not long after, for he died suddenly of a fit of an Apoplexy, and his Soul (if you will take the word of a devout Her∣mit who reported it) was cast into the flames of the Island Li∣para.

Theodoric was succeeded in the Kingdom by his Daughter Amalasun∣tha, with her Son Athalaric, whom she had by her Husband Eucherius. A Woman who with a prudence above her Sex, rectified her Fathers ill De∣crees, restored the confiscated Estates of Boethius and Symmachus, to their Children, and caused her Son to be instructed in all kinds of good Li∣terature, though she were herein opposed by the Goths, who cried out, that their King was not to be bred a Scholar but a Soldier. Much about this time died Justine, being very Aged, leaving the Empire to his Si∣sters Son Justinian; and Clodoveus King of France, leaving four Sons his Successors in that Kingdon. Persons of Note and esteem at this time were Benedict of Nursia, who setled among the Italians the Rules and* 1.161 Canons of the Monastick life; and Bridget a devout Virgin of Scotland,* 1.162 and John Presbyter of Antioch who wrote much against those that held that Christ should be worshipped in one Nature only. To these Isidore adds one Cyprignius a Spanish Bishop who wrote elegantly upon the Apocalypse.

Our John before he went to Constantinople had repaired three Coeme∣teries, namely that of Nereus and Achilleus in the Via Ardeatina, that of the Martyrs SS. Felix and Adauctus, and that of Priscilla. He also adorn'd the Altar of S. Peters with Gold and Jewels. He likewise brought with him from Constantinople, a Paten of Gold, and a Chalice of Gold set with precious stones, the Presents of the Emperour Justine; but these I suppose to have been lost together with his life. At several Ordinations he consecrated fifteen Bishops. 'Tis said that his Body was brought from Ravenna to Rome, and buried in S. Peter's Church, Ju∣ly the 27th. Olybrius being then Consul. He sat in the Chair two years, eight months, and by his death the Seewas vacant fifty eight days.

FELIX IV.

FELIX the fourth, a Sammite, the Son of Costorius, lived in the time of the Emperour Justinian,

Whose General Belisarius was victorious over the Persians, and passing into Afric by his singular courage and conduct subdued and almost quite rooted out the Vandals, whose King Gilimer he took Priso∣ner, and brought him home with him in Triumph. About this time Amalasuntha having a long time lived very uneasily with her malecon∣tented Goths, and having buried her wayward and unruly Son Athalaric, associates her kinsman Theodatus in the Government. This Theodatus was so great a Proficient in Greek and Latin Learning, that he wrote an elegant History of his own times, and was throughly skilled in the Platonick Philosophy. And though he were not naturally of an active Martial temper, yet at the desire of Amalasuntha he undertook a War against the Burgundians and Alemanni, and manag'd it very succces∣fully.

Felix in the mean while being careful of the affairs of the Church, excommunicated the Patriarch of Constantinople for Heresie, and built in the Via Sacra near the Forum Romanum the Church of S. Cosmus and Damianus, as appears from the Verses yet remaining, wrought in Mosaick work. He also re-built the Church of S. Saturninus in the Via Salaria, which had been consumed by fire. Some write that in this Age lived Cassiodorus, who while he was a Senator wrote several* 1.163 things in Politicks, and when he became a Monk composed a Com∣ment upon the Psalms. 'Tis said also that Priscian of Caesarea, the fa∣mous* 1.164 Grammarian, now wrote his Book of Grammar. Arator like∣wise a Sub-Deacon of Rome translated the Gospels into Hexameter Verse; and Justinian Bishop of Valence, was had in great esteem for what he preach'd and wrote concerning the Christian Faith. As for Felix himself, having ordained fifty five Presbyters, four Deacons, twen∣ty nine Bishops, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, Octo∣ber the 12th. He was in the Chair four years, two months, thir∣teen days, and by his death the See was vacant three days.

BONIFACE II.

BONIFACE the second, a Roman, Son of Sigismund, was also in the time of Justinian,

A Prince whose vast Parts and Learning qualified him for that great Work which for the publick Good he undertook, of collecting and methodizing the scattered Roman Laws, and retrench∣ing those which were useless and superfluous. Yet herein he made use of the Advice and assistance of John a Patrician, Trebonianus, Theophilus, and Dorotheus, men of great Learning and Authority. With their help an immense number of near two thousand Volumes of Decrees made from the building of the City to this time, confusedly heaped together, were digested under their respective Titles into fifty Books, which are sometimes called Digests, and sometimes Pandects, because they contain the whole Civil Law. He made also an Epitome of the Laws in four Books, which go under the name of Institutes, or Justinian's Code. More∣over, some tell us that Justinian wrote certain Books concerning the In∣carnation of our Lord, and that at his own charge he built the Temple of S. Sophia, than which there is not a more noble and magnificent Pile of Buildings in the World.

In his Reign 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was made Bishop of Rome, though not without some opposition; for the Clergy being divided, one Party of them chose Dioscorus into the place of Felix deceased. The Contention about this matter lasted twenty eight days, but the death of Dioscorus put an end to the Controversie. Things being quiet, Boniface applyed himself to the setling of the Church, and decreed, that no Bishop should appoint his own successour, which was afterwards confirm'd by several follow∣ing Bishops of Rome. He decreed also, that upon the decease of any Bishop of Rome, another should be chosen to succeed him, if it might be, within three days, to prevent any bandying or dissention which might be occasioned by delay. He ordained likewise, that the Clergy should be seperated and placed distinct from the Laity at the time of Celebration. At the same time many of the Roman Nobility were so wrought upon by the Sanctity of Benedict that they retired to Mount Cassino and became Monks there; among whom the more eminent were Maurus and Placidius. Other men of Note and esteem were Dio∣nysius the Abbat, famous for the extraordinary Skill and Judgment which he shewed in his Paschal Cycle; Famundus, whose writings against certain Eutychians then springing up were very much commend∣ed; and Martin, who by his Preaching and Writings converted the People of Soissons from the Arian Heresie to the Truth. But Boniface having sat in the Pontifical Chair two years, two days, died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The See was then vacant two months.

JOHN II.

〈◊〉〈◊〉 the second, a Roman, Son of Projectus, lived in the time of Justinian, and soon after his entrance upon the Pontificate condemned Anthemius an Arian Bishop; some say that he had been Bishop of Constantinople. Justinian, to shew his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the Roman See, sent Hypatius and Demetrius two Bishops to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, both to complement John in his name, and to make to S. Pe∣ter's Church several rich Presents. During this Embassie, Mundus Ju∣stinian's General, took the strong City of Salona, and gain'd a Victory over the Goths, though not without great loss on the Conquering side. For Mundus himself, together with his Son a Valiant and brave young Gentleman, was slain in that Engagement; the news of which misfor∣fortune was extreamly laid to heart by Justinian, he having always had a great value for that Leaders Courage and Fidelity. Our Bishop John, of whom Historians say very little, having at one Ordination made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Presbyters, twenty one Bishops, died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, May 27. He sat in the Chair two years, four months, and by his death the See was vacant six days.

AGAPETUS I.

AGAPETUS, a Roman, Son of Gordianus a Presbyter of the Church of S. John and S. Paul, being created Bishop by Theo∣datus, who was by him forthwith sent to the Emperour Justi∣nian, was highly incens'd against that King for his having first ba∣nish'd Amalasuntha the Mother of Athalaric into the Island of the Lake of Bolsena, and afterwards caused her to be put to death there. For she was a Woman so well acquainted with Greek and Latin Learning, that she durst engage in Disputation with any profess'd Scholar. More∣over, she was so throughly skilled in the Languages of all the barbarous Invadors of the Roman Empire, that she could discourse any of them without an Interpreter. Her Death Justinian so highly resented, that he threatned to make War upon Theodatus for that reason. Hereupon Agapetus was sent to him, who being receiv'd with great honour and af∣fection, and having obtain'd the peace he was sent to sue for, he was then practis'd with to confirm the Eutychian Opinions. But Justinian finding that the good man utterly detested any such proposal, from de∣siring and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he fell to Threats and Menaces. Upon which Agapetus told him, that he should have been glad to be sent to Justi∣nian, a Christian Prince, but that he found a Diocletian an Enemy and Persecutor of Christians. By this boldness of Speech and Gods ap∣pointment Justinian was so wrought upon that he embraced the Catho∣lick Faith, and having despos'd Anthemius Bishop of Constantinople, who patroniz'd the Eutychian Heresie, put into his place Menas one of the

Orthodox, who was consecrated by Agapetus himself. But not long after Agapetus died at Constantinople, and his body being wrap'd up in Lead was convey'd to Rome, and buried in S. Peter's Church. He sat in the Chair eleven months, twenty one days, and by his death the See was vacant one month, twenty nine days.

SYLVERIUS.

SYLVERIUS, a Campanian, Son of Bishop Hormisda, was chosen Bishop of Rome at the command of Theodatus, though till this time the Emperours only, not the Kings, had interposed their Authority in that matter. But the Menaces of Theodatus prevail∣ed, who had threatned to put to death every man of the Clergy who would not subscribe his name to the choice of Sylverius.

For this reason, and that he might also revenge the death of Amala. suntha, Justinian sends Belisarius a Patrician with an Army into Italy. In his passage thither he first put in at Sicily, and brought that Island to the Emperours devotion. In the mean time Theodatus dying, and the Goths having chosen themselves a King against the will of Justinian, Be∣lisarius quits Sicily that he might deliver Italy from the Tyranny of the Goths. Coming into Campania, and the City of Naples refusing to obey the Emperours Summons, he took it by Storm and plundered it, putting to the Sword all the Goths that were in Garrison there, and a great part of the Citizens, carrying away their Children and what other spoil they could lay their hands on. The Soldiers pillaged the very Churches, violated the chastity of Cloystered Virgins, and committed all the out∣rages which are wont to be acted by an enraged victorious Enemy. Marching hastily from thence with his Army to Rome, and entring the City by night, he struck such a terrour into the Goths, who defended it, that they all left the Gates and the Walls and fled to Ravenna. But Belisarius apprehending that Vitiges might surprize him with a mighty Force, which he should not be able to fight in open Field, with all pos∣sible dispatch fortified the City with Trenches and Bulwarks where occasion was for them. Soon after Vitiges according to his expectation coming towards him with a mighty Army, for it consisted of an hun∣dred thousand men, Belisarius, who had not above five thousand, thought it best to keep within the City. Vitiges encamped between two Aqueducts, the one of which ran towards the Via Latina, the other towards the Via Proenestina, and both met five miles from the City. And that the City might not be supplied with Water, he cut off all the Conduits and conveyances which were fourteen. Moreover, he sent part of his Army who possessed themselves of the Port, and thereby re∣duced the Romans to the double Calamity of War and Famine.

In the mean time, at the motion of Vigilius a Deacon and Surrogate of Rome, the Empress Theodora laid her Commands, joined with Threat∣nings, upon Sylverius, to banish Menas from Constantinople, and to restore Anthemius, who, as we have said, had been depos'd for patronizing the Eutychian Heresie. Which when he refus'd to do, she writes to Belisa∣rius,

ordering him to depose Sylverius, and to put Vigilius into his place. But Belisarius being wholly taken up with the defence of the City, left that affair to the management of his Wife Antonina, who upon the de∣positions of certain Witnesses suborn'd by Vigilius, attesting that Sylve∣rius had a design to betray the City into the hands of the Goths, not only compell'd him to quit the Pontificate and to enter into a Monastick life, but also banish'd him to the Island Pontia, where he died, not without the reputation of having been a very holy man. Tis said, that at this time the Gauls dispatch'd Messengers to Benedict, desiring him to send to them any one of his Disciples to instruct them in the Rules of the Mo∣nastick life. Upon which Benedict sent Maurus, who by his own Ex∣ample instructed them in a good and happy course of living, and also set up several Monasteries among them. Vigilius, at the desire of the Roman Clergy, in pursuance of Antonina's determination, was created Bishop of Rome; Sylverius after his possession of the Chair one year, five months, and twelve days, died, as we have already said, in Pontia, and was buried June the 20th. Upon his death the See was vacant six days.

VIGILIUS I.

VIGILIUS, a Roman, his Father a man of consular Digni∣ty, was likewise in Justinian's Reign created Bishop of Rome, in whose time a fifth Synod was held at Constantinople against Theodorus and other Hereticks, who held that the Blessed Virgin brought forth Man only, not God-man; in this Synod there∣fore it was decreed, that the Blessed Virgin should be styled 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 i. e. the Mother of God.

Belisarius had now defended the City one whole year and nine days, and having in this time received fresh supplies of Men, he resolved to march out and to engage the Enemy in a pitch'd Battel. But Vitiges distrusting his own Force, sets fire to his Tents, and hastens by great Marches to Ravenna. Belisarius with all possible speed follows him, and entring the City, takes Vitiges himself Prisoner with all his Family and a great part of his Nobles; and having recovered almost all Italy, in the fifth year from his arrival there, he carries them with him to Constantinople. The same Belisarius with incredible expedition quell'd the Moors who were harassing Africa, and out of the spoils of that Vi∣ctory he made two very rich Presents to S. Peter's Church in Rome. He built also two Hospitals for Strangers at his own charge, one in the Via Lata, the other in the Via Flaminia; and founded the Monastery of S. Juvenalis at a Town called Orta, endowing it with an Estate in Land for the maintenance of the Monks in it.

At this time Theodora was earnest with Vigilius to come to Constanti∣nople, and according to his Promise, to restore Anthemius. But Vigilius denies the doing it, for that unjust Promises are not to be performed, and he was of Opinion that the proceedings of Agapetus and Sylverius against that Heretick were legal, and that therefore their Acts were by

no means to be made void by him. Theodora being hereat enraged, with the assistance of some of her Creatures at Rome, causes Vigilius to be impleaded upon two Accusations; one, that he had fraudulently procur'd the banishment of Sylverius; the other, that by his Order a certain Youth had been beaten to death by his Nephew Vigilius Son of Asterius the Consul. And that he might not escape with impunity, she sends one Anthemius to Rome, with instructions to bring Vigilius by force to her, if he refused to make his appearance. He coming to Rome, in pursuance of his Commission, feiz'd the Bishop in the Church of S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as he was according to custom distributing Gifts to the People upon his Birth-day; and being assisted by some Romans, conveys him to Constantinople. 'Tis said, that at Vigilius his passage down the River Tyber, the People followed him with Curses, pelting him with sticks and stones, and particularly using this exprobration, Mischievous hast thou been to the City of Rome, and may mischief go along with thee. Being arrived at Sicily, by the permission of those who had him in custody, he ordained several Persons, and among them Am∣pliatus a Priest, and Valentinus a Bishop, who were to have the inspe∣ction of the Clergy and Church of Rome in his absence. Coming near Constantinople, Justinian with a great Retinue went out to meet him, and they both entred the City together, the Clergy going before them, as far as the Temple of S. Sophia. Theodora had now opportunity to tamper with Vigilius, and persuade him to the performance of his Pro∣mise. But he told her, that he had rather suffer the greatest punish∣ment in the World, than change his Resolution in the Case. She there∣fore and her Attendants beginning to menace him, and he saying that he was come to a Diocletian, not as he thought to Justinian, he was thereupon so roughly handled and beaten that it almost cost him his life. And flying from their rage to the Church of S. Euphemia, not far distant, he was from thence drag'd by certain rude People, who put an Halter about his Neck, and led him like a common Rogue publickly through the City till the Evening. After this he was imprison'd, and forc'd for some time to live upon nothing but Bread and Water, which yet he bore with so much patience and temper, that he would often say that he had deserved worse than all this, and was not yet punish'd accord∣ing to his Demerits. Those of the Clergy who had accompanied him from Rome, were some of them banish'd, others condemn'd to dig in the Mines. But at the request of the Romans who had now a better Opinion of him, and upon the importunity of Narses, whom Justinian had sent to Rome to oppose the Goths, Vigilius and all the others who were confin'd, had liberty granted them to return into Italy. But in their passage thi∣ther being come as far as Syracuse in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Vigilius who had out-liv'd so many Calamities and Troubles, died there of the Stone, and his body was carried to Rome, and buried in the Church of S. Marcellus in the Via Sa∣laria. He lived in the Pontificate at Rome and elsewhere seventeen years, six months, twenty six days, and by his death the See was va∣cant three months, five days.

PELAGIUS I.

PELAGIUS, a Roman, lived in the time when Totilas King* 1.165 of the Goths advancing with a great Army from Treviso, over∣run and spoiled Italy in such a manner, that from his salvage Cruelty he was called God's Scourge. Coming as far as Mount Cassino, in his way to Campania, though he were in the habit of a common Sol∣dier, yet he was discovered by S. Benedict, who spared not by threat∣ning of divine Vengeance to terrifie him from raging so furiously against the Christians. Moving thence towards Abruzzo, he dismantled 〈◊〉〈◊〉, besieged Naples, took Cumoe, where yet he exercised an extra∣ordinary Respect and Civility towards the Roman Women whom he found in it, permitting them to go to Rome to their Friends without any violence or rudeness offered to them. After this having taken Naples, and made himself Master of all that part of Italy which lies towards Si∣cily, he marches to Rome; and having first seized the Port, by which 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should come to the City, he reduced them to such extremity for want of Provisions, that some were forced to feed upon Mans-flesh. At length, forcing his entrance at the Gate which leads to Ostia, he pos∣sessed himself of the City, which having plundered, he set on fire. Some tell us, that Totilas designed to save the Buildings of the City, and sent Messengers about by Night to publish his pleasure in that par∣ticular, but his Orders therein were not obeyed. Justinian having In∣telligence of these proceedings, speedily dispatches Narses the Eunuch* 1.166 with a great Army into Italy. 'Tis said, that this Narses was at first a Bookseller, but being advanced to an Office near the Emperour's Person, Justinian finding him to be a man of great merit, raised him to the Dig∣nity of a Patrician. And indeed, in all the accomplishments of Religi∣on, and Vertue, and Clemency, and Generosity, and sweetness of tem∣per, he was a most exemplary and extraordinary Person. Narses, with the addition of some Auxiliary Forces from Alboinus King of the Lom∣bards, advances against the Goths, routs them, and makes a great slaugh∣ter in the pursuit of them. Totilas lost his life ingloriously at Brissello, and Theias who was chosen King in his stead, though he behaved him∣self bravely, yet was slain by Narses not far from Nocera. And thus both the Name and Power of the Goths were extinct together, in the seventy second year after that their King Theodoric first entred Italy. Not long after died Justinian, in the fortieth year of his Reign; a Prince worthy to have his memory perpetuated to all Posterity, and who ac∣cording to the custom of preceding Emperours, deserves the additional Titles of Alemanicus, Gotthicus, Wandalicus, Persicus, Africanus, though he only advised, but did not act in the successful Expeditions made against those Nations.

Pelagius, in the midst of these disturbances not neglecting the Af∣fairs of the Church, ordained, that Hereticks and Schismaticks might be suppressed by the Secular Power, when they would not be reclaim'd by Reason and Argument. Being accused that he was the occasion of the Calamities that befell Vigilius, as having a greater interest with Ju∣stinian

than Vigilius had, in the sight of the Clergy and People, he laid his hand upon the Cross and the Gospel, and by a solemn Oath purged himself from that Charge. Narses coming to Rome, made a Procession from the Church of S. Pancras to S. Peter's, with Thanksgiving for his late success; and set himself with all possible application to repair the Damage which the City had receiv'd by the Goths. In conjunction with Pelagius, he ordained that no Person should be admitted to any holy Orders or Ecclesiastical Dignity by the way of canvassing or Birbery. Pelagius making his Notary Valentinus, a very religious person, Trea∣surer of the Church, begins the building of the Church of SS. Philip and James. Some tell us that the learned Monk Cassiodorus, who had been* 1.167 first Consul, then a Senator, and afterwards renouncing all human Greatness embraced a Monastick life, lived to this time; and that Vi∣ctor Bishop of Capua now wrote a Book concerning Easter, in which he* 1.168 particularly discovered the mistakes of Dionysius the Roman Abbat, who had with little care and skill composed a Paschal Cycle. Moreover, Sa∣binus Bishop of Canosa, and Gregory Bishop of Langres, and Vedastus a Scholar of S. Remigius and Bishop of Arras were Ornaments to the Pontificate of Pelagius; and Herculanus Bishop of Perugia, who had been put to Death by Totylas, was Canonized. Pelagius, having at two Decembrian Ordinations made twenty six Presbyters, eleven Deacons, thirty nine Bishops, died, and was buried in S. Peter's. He was in the Chair eleven years, ten months, twenty eight days. The See was then vacant twenty six days.

JOHN III.

JOHN the third, the Son of Anastasius, descended of a Noble Family, lived in the time of Justine, who succeeded Justinian, but was in nothing like him.

For he was Covetous, lewd, rapacious, a contemner of* 1.169 God and Men to such a degree, that his Vices made him srantick; so that his Wife Sophia managed all affairs till the time of Ti∣berius the second. This Woman, being prompted thereto by some en∣vious persons who hated Narses, recalls him out of Italy in these re∣proachful words, That she would have the Eunuch come home and spin. This he very highly resenting, as well he might, returns answer, That he would spin such a Web, as none of his Enemies should ever be able to unweave. And he was as good as word. For he presently sends and in∣vites Alboinus King of the Lombards, with all his people, then possessed of Pannonia, to come and seat themselves in the more plentiful Coun∣trey of Italy. Alboinus complying with the proposal of Narses, and en∣tring Italy with a vast number of men with their Wives and Children, first possesses himself of Friuli and Marca Trivigiana; thence passing in∣to Insubria, he takes and sacks Milain, and at length makes himself Master of Pavia, after it had held out a Siege of three years. Being thus slush'd with Victory, he goes to Verona, which he constitutes the the Capital City of his Kingdom; where being once at an Entertain∣ment

over-heated with Wine, he compelled his Wife Rosimund to drink out of a Cup which he had made of her own Fathers Skull, whom he himself had slain. Now there was in Alboinus's Army one Helmechild, a very handsom young Gentleman, and an excellent Soldier; and who was Rosimund's particular Favourite. Him she discourses privately, and by proposing to him the hopes of succeeding in the Kingdom, prevail∣ed with him to murder Alboinus. But they were both so hated for the Fact by the Lombards, that they not only failed of their hopes, but were glad to fly for protection to Longinus the Exarch of Ravenna; where not long after they poisoned each other, and died together. At this time Italy, by reason of the Incursions which the barbarous Nati∣ons made into it, was in a very calamitous state; which had been por∣tended by Prodigies, and Apparitions of flaming Armies in the Air, and also by an extraordinary inundation of the River Tyber which had very much damaged the City of Rome.

In the mean time our John repaired the Coemeteries of the Saints, and finished the Church of SS. Philip and James which had been begun by Vigilius, and drew Narses, who had been an avowed Enemy to the Ro∣mans for their ill opinion of him and their misrepresenting him to the Empress Sophia, from Naples to Rome; where he not long after died, and his Body was conveyed in a Coffin of Lead to Constantinople. In such a consusion of things the State of Italy must needs certainly have been utterly ruined, if some eminently holy men had not supported and prop'd up the tottering Nation. Among others, Paul Patriarch of A∣quileia, and Felix Bishop of Treviso interceded successfully with Alboi∣nus, when he first entred Italy, in the behalf of the Inhabitants. More∣over, Fortunatus a person of extraordinary Learning and Eloquence, very much civiliz'd and polish'd the Gauls by his Books and Example; compiling a Treatise of Government inscribed to their King Sigebert, and writing in an elegant style the Life of S. Martin. Some write that at this time lived Germanus Bishop of Paris, a person of wonder∣ful Piety, who kept the Kings of France within the bounds of their duty to such a Degree, that each strove to excel the other in Religion and Piety, in Goodness and Clemency. So prevalent is the Example of a good Pastour, such an one as Germanus was, in whom they saw nothing but what was worthy of their imitation. After this one far∣ther Remark, that in our John's time the Armenians were converted to Christianity, I shall say no more of him, but that having been in the Chair twelve years, eleven months, twenty six days, he died, and was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in S. Peters. Upon his death the See was vacant ten months, three days.

BENEDICT I.

BENEDICT, a Roman, the Son of Boniface, lived in the time of Tiberius the Second, whom Justine had adopted, and appointed his Heir to the Empire.

An Honour which he well deserved, as being a Person* 1.170 adorn'd with all the Princely Accomplishments of Clemency, Justice, Piety, Religion, Wisdom, Resolution, and unshaken Fortitude. Among his other Vertues he was eminent for his Bounty and Liberality towards all, especially the poor; and God supplied him in an extraordinary man∣ner for it. For walking once hastily in his Palace, and spying the figure of the Cross upon one of the Marble stones in the Pavement, that it might not be trampled under foot, he devoutly caused it to be removed from thence, and laid up in a more decent and honourable place. At it's taking up, there was found under it another stone with the same figure on it, and then a third, under which he discovered such a vast heap of Gold and Silver as was requisite to furnish and maintain his large Boun∣ty; a great part of which Treasure he distributed to the poor. 'Tis said also that he had brought to him out of Italy a great Estate which Narses had got there, which in like manner he employed in Liberality and Munificence. To Sigebert the French King, who had sent Embassa∣dours to him, besides the other Presents that he made, which were very considerable, he sent certain Medals of Gold of very great weight, on the one side of which was the Effigies of the Emperour with this In∣scription, Tiberii Constantini perpetuo Augusti; on the other side was a Charriot with its Driver and this Inscription, Romanorum Gloria. And to complete his Successes, the Army which he had sent against the Per∣sians returning victoriously, brought away with twenty Elephants so vast a Booty, as no Army had ever done in any Expedition before. Thus signally was he rewarded for his good services to mankind in general, for his Religion towards God our Saviour, and for his Beneficence par∣ticularly to the people of Rome; whom he not only protected and de∣sended from their Enemies as much as could be by his Arms, but also at the Prayers and Intercession of our Bishop Benedict, whom he had a wonderful Love and Esteem for, he delivered them from Dearth and Famine by sending a supply of Corn out of Egypt. For the Lombards by a long and tedious War, had so harrassed Italy far and wide, that from their devastations there arose a great want and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of all things. While things went thus in Italy, John Bishop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Constan, inople, by Reading, Disputing, Writing, Admonishing and Teaching, kept the Oriental Church as much as might be right in the Faith, though he met with many opposers therein. The same did also the equally Learned and Eloquent Leander Bishop of Toledo, or as others think of Sevil, who wrote several Treatises both to confirm the Orthodox Doctrine, and to confute the Arian Heresie, which, like a contagious Pestilence, the Vandals, driven out of Africa by Belisarius, had brought with them in∣to Spain. As for Benedict, some write that he laying sadly to heart the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which now befell Rome and all Italy, died of grief; af∣ter

he had been in the Chair four years, one month, twenty eight days. The See was then vacant two months, ten days.

PELAGIUS II.

PELAGIUS, a Roman, Son of Vinigildus, was from the time of Tiberius, to that of his Son-in-law the Emperour Mau∣ritius,

To whom though he were a Cappadocian, yet the Empire was com∣mitted,* 1.171 upon the account of his great Courage, and Ability in the ma∣nagement of Affairs. At this time the Lombards, having after the Death of Alboinus for twenty years 〈◊〉〈◊〉 govern'd by Dukes, make Autharis their King, whom they also called 〈◊〉〈◊〉; a Name which was after∣wards used by all the Kings of Lombardy. But Mauritius endeavouring to drive the Lombards out of Italy, hires Sigebert the French King to engage in a War against them; who forthwith raising a great Army of Gauls and Germans, fights Autharis, but with great loss is discomfited. The Lombards being flush'd and heightened by this Victory, march'd on as far as to the Streights of Sicily, possessing themselves all along of the Cities of Italy, and at length besieging for a long time Rome it self; of which certainly they had made themselves Masters, had they not been driven from its Walls by the great Rains, which sell so violently and in∣cessantly, and made such an Inundation, that men look'd upon it as a second Noah's Floud.

This was the only cause why Pelagius was made Bishop of Rome with∣out the consent of the Emperour; the City being so closely besieged that none could pass to know his pleasure therein. For at this time the Roman Clergie's Election of a Bishop was not valid unless they had the Emperour's Approbation. Hereupon Gregory a Deacon, a man of great Piety and Learning, was sent to Constantinople to appease the Em∣perour; where having effected what he came for, he neglected not to employ his time and parts, but both wrote Books of Morals upon Job, and also at a Disputation in the presence of the Emperour himself, he so basfled Eutychius Bishop of Constantinople, that he was forced to retract what he had written in a Book of his concerning the Resurrection; in which he asserted, that our Bodies in that glory of the Resurrection should become more thin and subtile than the Wind or Air, and so not tangible. Which is contrary to that of our Saviour, Handle me and see, for* 1.172 a Spirit hath not flesh and bones, as you see me have. As for Pelagius, ha∣ving at the request of the Citizens of Rome recalled Gregory, turned his Fathers House into an Hospital for poor old men, and entirely built the Coemetery of Hermes the Martyr, and the Church of Laurence the Mar∣tyr, he died of the Pestilence, which at that time was very epidemical throughout Europe, after he had been in the Chair ten years, two months, ten days, and was buried in S. Peter's in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. The See was then vacant six months, twenty eight days.

GREGORY I.

GREGORT, a Roman, Son of Gordianus, one of the Senato rian Order, was against his will unanimously chosen Bishop of Rome, Anno Dom. 590. Now because, as I have already said, the consent of the Emperour was required herein, he dispatches Messengers with Letters, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Mauritius that he would not suffer this Election of the Clergy and People of Rome to stand good. These Letters were intercepted and torn by the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and others written, by which the Emperour was requested to confirm him who was by universal suffrage thus chosen. There could nothing be more pleas∣ing and acceptable to the Emperour than the News of this Choice, for the conversation of Gregory, while he was at Constantinople, had been very grateful to him, and moreover he had Christned his Son. Mauritius therefore speedily sends word back to Rome, that he did confirm the E∣lection of Gregory, and that in such a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 state of things they should compel that holy man to undertake the Government of the Church. He therefore, not consulting his own inclination, but the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Mankind, and the honour of God, which, as he was a most de∣vout and religious man, he had ever preferred before all other things, without any regard to Riches, or Pleasures, or Ambition, or Power, takes the burden of the Pontificate upon him. And he behaved him∣self so well in it, that no one of his Successours down to our times has been his Equal, much less Superiour, either for Sanctity of Life, or for 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 in managing Affairs, or for his Learning and Writings. He composed a Book of the Sacraments; wrote Commentaries upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and, as I have already said, upon Job, and Homilies upon the Go∣spels; four Books in Dialogue, and that which he called the Pastoral, to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop of Ravenna concerning the way of governing the Church. Moreover, he introduced several Rites, and made several Additions to the Offices of the Roman Church; and particularly he first instituted the greater Litanies or 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and appointed a great part of the Stati∣ons. And that the good man might not in any thing be wanting to the Church, he held in S. Peter's a Synod of twenty four Bishops, wherein he took away many things which might prove pernicious, and added many which might be beneficial to Religion. He also 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into Eng∣land, Auguscine, Melitus, and John, and with these divers other Monks, all persons of approved lives, by whose Preaching the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were then first entirely converted to Christianity. By his means likewise the Goths returned to the Union of the Catholick Church. We are told by some Writers, that Gregory sent his Dialogues concerning Morals to Theudelinda Queen of the Lombards, by the reading of which she might smooth and polish the rugged temper of her Husband 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and bring him to a better sense of Religion and Morality. She was an ex∣cellent Lady, and a zealous Christian, and not only built the Church of S. John Baptist at Monza a Town ten miles distant from Milain, but also furnished it with Vessels of Gold, and liberally endowed it.

Tis said, that at the time when 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was put to death by

his Father Levigild King of the Goths, because he professed the Catholick Faith, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Coat of Christ, which fell by Lot to one of the Sol∣diers, was found in the City Zaphat, laid up in a Marble Chest there; Thomas being then Bishop of Jerusalem, John Bishop of Constantinople, and Gregory Bishop of Antioch. In the mean time Mauritius, having in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Terra di Lavoro, by his General Romanus the Exarch, gain'd the better of the Lombards, who from a confidence grounded upon their former successes were now degenerated into all manner of Vice, makes a Law, that no person who had listed himself in the Roman Army, should be at liberty to withdraw and take upon him a Religious life, till either the War were ended, or the man himself 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or disabled. Gregory being moved hereat, admonishes him not to oppose the Religion of that God, by whose bounty he had been raised from a very mean con∣dition to the highest Degree of Dignity. Moreover, John Bishop of Constantinople, having in a Synod which he held, procured himself to be styled the Oecumenical, i. e. Universal Bishop, and Mauritius hereup∣on requiring Gregory to yield obedience to John; He, being a person of great Courage and Constancy, returns answer, That the Power of binding and loosing was committed to Peter and his Successours, not to the Bishops of Constantinople, and therefore warns him to desist from provoking the wrath of God against himself, by being too 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in sow∣ing Dissention in the Church. But Mauritius not content with the mischief he had done already, re-calls his Soldiers which were in Italy, and encourages the Lombards to assault the Romans, without any re∣gard to the League they had entred into with them. Hereupon Agi∣lulphus moving from Lombardy, and laying waste all Tuscany through which he passed, invests and very much annoys the City of Rome one whole year; in which time Severus Bishop of Aquileia becoming Here∣tical, was the occasion of many Evils. For after his Death the Patri∣archate of Aquileia was divided into two; Agilulphus King of the Lom∣bards constituting John of Aquileia and our Gregory, Candianus of Gra∣do, Bishops to the people of Friuli. But Agilulphus quitting all hopes of gaining the City, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Siege, and returns to Milain. Mauritius now began to treat Gregory more respectfully, but it proceeded not from a voluntary but forc'd Repentance; he having heard that a cer∣tain person in the habit of a Monk, with a drawn Sword in his hand, had proclaim'd aloud in the Market-place of Constantinople, that the Emperour should in a short time die by the Sword. The same was con∣firmed to him by a Dream of his own in which he saw himself, his Em∣press, and their Children murdered. And accordingly not long after the Soldiers being discontented for want of Pay, create Phocas, who was a Centurion in the Army, Emperour, and Assassine Mauritius, in the nineteenth year of his Reign. But Gregory, having added what Ornaments he could to the Churches in Rome, and dedicated by the name of S. Agatha the Martyr, the Church of the Goths in Suburra, built by 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Ricimerius a man of Consular Dignity, converted his Father's House into a Monastery, wherein he received and entertained Strangers, and supplyed with meat and drink the poor which from all parts slock∣ed to it. He was certainly a person every way praise-worthy, whether we regard his Life and Conversation, or his Learning, or his Abilities in things both Divine and Humane. Nor ought we to suffer him to be

censured by a few ignorant men, as if the ancient 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Buildings were demolish'd by his Order, upon this pretence which they make for him, lest Strangers coming out of Devotion to Rome, should less regard the consecrated places, and spend all their Gaze upon Triumphal Arches and Monuments of Antiquity. No such reproach can justly be fastned upon this great Bishop, especially considering that he was a Native of the City, and one to whom, next after God, his Countrey was most dear, even above his Life. 'Tis certain that many of those ruin'd Stru∣ctures were devour'd by Time, and many might, as we daily see, be pull'd down to build new Houses, and for the rest, 'tis probable that for the sake of the Brass used in the concavity of the Arches and the conjunctures of the Marble or other square stones, they might be bat∣tered and defaced not only by the barbarous Nations, but by the Ro∣mans too, if Epirotes, Dalmatians, Pannonians, and other sorry people who from all parts of the World resorted hither, may be called Romans. Now Gregory having used all means to establish the Church of God, died in the second year of the Emperour Phocas, having been in the Chair thirteen years, six months, ten days; and, the loss of him being lamented by all men, was buried in S. Peter's, March 12. By his Death the See was vacant five months, nineteen days.

SABINIANUS I.

SABINIAN Gregorie's Successour, deserv'd not to have the place of his Nativity remembred; being a person of mean Birth and meaner Reputation, and one who violently oppo∣sed the great things which his Predecessour had done. Parti∣cularly, there being a great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 during his Pontificate, and the poor pressing him hard to imitate the pious Charity of Gregory, he made them no other Answer but this, That Gregory was a man who design'd to make himself popular, and to that end had profusely wasted the Re∣venues of the Church. Nay, the ill-natured wretch arrived to such a degree of Rage and Envy against Gregory, that he was within a very little of causing his Books to be burn'd. Some tell us that Sabinian was, at the instigation of some Romans, thus highly incensed against Gregory, because he had mutilated and thrown down the Statues of the Antients which had been set up throughout the City; but this is a Charge as dissonant from truth as that of his demolishing the old Fa∣bricks, concerning which we have spoken in his Life; and considering the Antiquity of these Statues, and the casualties which might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them, and the designs which mens Covetousness or Curiosity might have upon them, 'tis fairly probable that they might be mangled or lost, with∣out Gregorie's being at all concern'd therein. But to go on with Sabi∣nian, it was he who instituted the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Canonical hours for Prayer in the Church, and who ordained that Tapers should be kept continually burning, especially in the Church of S. Peter. Some tell us, that with the consent of Phocas, a Peace was now made with the Lom∣bards, and their King Agilulphus's Daughter, who had been taken Cap∣tive

in the War, restored to him. At this time appeared divers Prodi∣gies, portending the Calamities which ensued. A bright Comet was seen in the Air, at Constantinople a Child was born with four feet, and at the Island 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were seen two Sea-monsters in humane shape. Some write that in the Pontificate of Sabinian, John Patriarch of Alexandria, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop of Carthage, both persons famous for Piety and Learning, did wonderfully improve the Dignity of those Churches. Moreover, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a very learned man, and an intimate Friend of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, wrote very much against Vincent Bishop of Saragoza, who had sallen off to the Arian Heresie; he also wrote to his Sister a Book concerning Virginity, entituled Aureolus. But Sabinian, having been in the Chair one year, five months, nine days, died, and was buried in the Church of S Peter. By his Death the See was vacant eleven months, twenty six days.

BONIFACE III.

BONIFACE the third, a Roman, with much ado ob∣tained of the Emperour Phocas, that the See of S. Peter the Apostle, should by all be acknowledged and styled the Head of all the Churches. A Title which had been stick∣led for by the Church of Constantinople, through the en∣couragement of some former Princes, who asserted that the Supremacy ought to reside there, where the Seat of the Empire was. But the Roman Bishops alledged that Rome, of which Constantinople was but a Colony, ought to be accounted the chief City of the Empire, since the Greeks themselves in their Writings styled their Prince, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i. e. the Emperour of the Romans, and the Constantinopoli∣tans even in that Age were called Romans, not Greeks. Not to mention that Peter the Chief of the Apostles bequeathed the Keyes of the King∣dom of Heaven to his Successours the Bishops of Rome, and left the Power which God had given him not to Constantinople, but to Rome. This only I say, that several Princes, and particularly Constantine, had granted to the Roman See only, the priviledg of calling and dissolving Councils, and of rejecting or confirming their Decrees. And does not a Church which has with so much integrity and constancy bastled and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all manner of Heresies as the Roman See hath done, deserve think you the preference of others. The same Boniface in a Synod of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 two Bishops, thirty Presbyters, and three Deacons, ordained, that upon pain of Excommunication no person should succeed in the place of any deceased Pope or other Bishop, till at least the third day after the death of his Predecessour; and that whoever should by Bribes or by making of Parties and Interests endeavour to raise themselves to the Popedom or any other Bishoprick should undergo the same Penalty. He decreed likewise, that the choice of any Bishop should be by the Clergy and People, and that the Election should then stand good, when it were approved by the Civil Magistrate, and when the Pope had in∣terposed his Authority, in these words, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and Command. An In∣stitution

in part very necessary, for our times especially, so many corru∣ptions daily creeping in. For it is probable, that, the Election being free, the Clergy and People will chuse, and the Magistrate approve of no other, than such an one as deserves and is fit to be Governour in the Church. Though (if I may speak it without offence to any that are good) the truth is, multitudes do now aspire to the Dignity of Bishops, not as they ought to do for the sake of the publick good, but that they may satisfie their own Covetousness and Ambition. For the great Questi∣on is, what any Bishoprick is worth, not how great a Flock there is to take the charge of. But enough of this; I return to Boniface, whose Decrees, as it appears, were extinct with his Life. He died in the ninth month of his Pontificate, and was buried in the Church of S. Peter. The See was then vacant one month, six days.

BONIFACE IV.

BONIFACE the fourth, born in Valeria a City of the Marsi, the Son of John a Physician, obtained of the Em∣perour Phocas the Pantheon, a Temple so called, because it was dedicated to Cybele and all the Gods, and having cast out all the Heathen Images that were in it, he consecrated it on May the 12th. in honour to the Blessed Virgin and all the Martyrs; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it was afterwards called S. Maria Rotunda, and Virgo ad Mar∣tyres.

At this time the Persians, under the Conduct of their King 〈◊〉〈◊〉, making an irruption into the Roman Provinces, and having routed Pho∣cas's Army, possess themselves of Jerusalem; prophane and pillage the Churches of the Christians, carry away the Wood of our Saviour's Cross, and take Captive Zacharias the holy Patriarch of that City. Hereupon Phocas falling into contempt with all men, but especially the Senate, was deprived of his Empire and Life by Heraclius General of the Forces and Governour of the Province of Afrique. Now also Ca∣ganus King of the Avares, forcing his entrance through Pannonia and Il∣lyricum into Italy, was so much too hard for the Lombards, that he was very near making himself Master of the Province it self; and through the treachery of Romilda, who was enamour'd of him, he did actually take Friuli, and sack'd it in such a manner that scarce any footsteps of it were left remaining. While things went thus in Italy, John Bi∣shop of Girone proved a great Defence to Christianity both by his Preach∣ing* 1.173 and Writings. He being a Goth, born in Portugal, so soon as he came to the years of discretion travelled to Constantinople, and parted thence so well skill'd in Greek and Latin Learning, that at his return in∣to Portugal, he was able easily to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Arian Heresie which very much prevailed there. For this reason he was by the Hereticks con∣fined in Barcellona. But afterwards upon the death of King Lemungil∣dus, who countenanced those Hereticks, he came back into his own Countrey, and both wrote very much concerning the Christian Religio∣on, and also founded a Monastery, and prescribed Rules of living which

the Monks thereof were to guide themselves by. Eutropius also Bishop of Valentia, was now by his Learning and Example very instrumental to keep the Spaniards sound in the Faith. Moreover, Columbanus an Abbat, a very holy man, by descent a Goth, coming first out of Scotland into Burgundy, built there the stately Monastery of Luxevil; and thence passing into Italy, built another fair one at Bobio. Pope Boniface, that he might not be behind-hand in this matter with either of them, con∣verted his Father's House into a Monastery, and gave his Estate for the maintenance of the Monks in it. But not long after he died, having been in the Chair six years, eight months, seventeen days, and was bu∣ried in the Church of S. Peter; in a time of Dearth, Pestilence, and great Innundation of Waters. By his Death the See was vacant seven months, twenty 〈◊〉〈◊〉 days.

DEUS-DEDIT I.

DEUS-DEDIT, a Roman, Son of Stephen a Sub-deacon, be∣ing unanimously chosen to the Pontificate, proved a great Lover and Encourager of the Clergy. 'Tis reported that he was a person of so great Sanctity, that meeting with a man who had a Leprosie, he cured him of that Disease with a Kiss. He ordained, that the Son should not marry any Woman to whom his Father had been Godfather.

At this time Heraclius with a great Army recovered several Pro∣vinces which the Persians had possess'd themselves of; dismounted and slew their General in a single Combat; vanquish'd their King Chosdroës, and took his Son Prisoner, whom having first Christned, he released and sent home again. Entring Persia, he took a strong Tower in which 〈◊〉〈◊〉's Treasure lay, part of which he distributed among his Sol∣diers, and assign'd another part for the repairing of the Churches which the Persians had pillaged and spoil'd. Returning to Jerusalem with se∣ven Elephants loaded with other great Booty, he brought along with him the Cross of our Blessed Saviour which the Persians had taken away, and laid it up in the place where it was before. Those of the Persians whom he had taken Prisoners, he suffered to return into their own Countrey. After this being arrived at Constantinople, and taking delight in study, he applied himself to Astrology. But yet this great Emperour, against all Law both Divine and Humane married his own Sister's Daughter; and to add one Crime to another, as is usual when men once become guilty, he falls off to the Eutychian Heresie. This happened at the time when Anastasius a Persian, being converted to Chri∣stianity, and having entred upon a Monastick Life, was seized by his own Countrey-men, and suffered Martyrdom for the sake of his Re∣ligion; whose body was afterwards conveyed to Rome and reposited in the Monastery of S. Paul. 'Tis said, that at this time Sisebute King of the Goths, reduced several Cities of Spain which had revolted to the Romans; and that by Torment he forced all the Jews which he disco∣vered in his Kingdom to profess the belief of Christianity. This it is

reported he did at the request of Heraclius, who had been fore-warn'd to beware of the Circumcised; but yet afterwards, he being not suffi∣ciently careful to prevent his Fate, was crush'd by the Saracens who observed Circumcision. Thus things went in the East, nor did the West want it's Assertours of the Christian Faith. For Arnulphus Bishop of Metz, by his Piety and Prudence kept Dagobert the French King within the bounds of his Duty; being therein assisted by Amandus, an excellent person, and a vigorous defender of the Christian Religion. Among the Spaniards, Isidore Bishop of Sevil, successour to Leander, wrote several things very beneficial to the State of Christianity; particularly, of the Chief Good, of Famous Men, of Grammar, and Etymology; an History from Adam to the times of Heraclius, the Lives of several Saints, the Hi∣story of the Lombards, and a short Cosmography. Some say that this Isidore was a German, though the Spaniards lay claim to him; but what∣ever Countrey-man he were, 'tis certain that he was a most excellent person, both for his great Learning, and his greater Sanctity.

As for Deus-dedit, the time of whose Pontificate, besides what we have already mentioned, was rendred remarkable by an Earthquake, and a Scab so near approaching to a Leprosie that it deformed men beyond each others knowledg, he died in the third year, and twenty third day of his being in the Chair, and was buried in the Church of S. Peter, No∣vember the 8th. By his Death the See was vacant one month, sixteen days.

BONIFACE V.

BONIFACE the fifth, a Campanian, his Father's name John, was chosen Pope at the time when Eleutherius a Pa∣trician, being sent by Heraclius to Rome, and having re∣veng'd the Death of John the late Exarch of Ravenna, usurp∣ed the Kingdom of Italy. But in his way to Rome he was put to Death by his own Soldiers, and his Head sent to Constantinople. Upon which Isaacius of Constantinople, another Patrician, was made Exarch in his stead. Theudelinda now after the Death of her Husband Adoaldus, go∣verning together with her Son the Kingdom of the Lombards very pru∣dently and justly, maintained a Peace between her People and the Ita∣lians for ten years together; made several Presents and Donations to several Churches, and endowed them with Lands for the better main∣tenance of the Clergy belonging to them. In the twelfth year of He∣raclius, Mahomet an Arabian as some will have him, or as others a Per∣sian,* 1.174 descended of a Noble Family, his Father a Gentile, his Mother a Jewess, was the Author of so much mischief to the Christian State, that I am afraid lest his Sect should utterly extinguish the Remains of Chri∣stianity; especially in our Age, wherein we are grown listless and una∣ctive, and stand still tamely exspecting our own Ruin. His Sect pre∣vails and encreases now more than ever; All Asia and Africa, and a great part of Europe is subject to Mahometan Princes; the Turks press bard upon us by Sea and Land, that they may ferret us like Coneys

out of these Burrows in Europe. In the mean time we sit idly, looking upon one another, as if the whole State of Christianity were not at all in danger. The Clergy expect that so important and necessary a War should be undertaken by the Laity. The Laity expect that the Clergy should expend their Money to bear the Charge of a War for the De∣fence of Religion, and not put it to worse Uses, as most of them are wont to do, laying out their Stock gotten by Alms and Martyr's Bloud upon huge large Vessels of massy Gold and Silver, while themselves in the mean time carry it arrogantly towards Men, are contemners of God, whom they serve only for Gain, and are not at all solicitous for the time to come. But I return to Mahomet, a man of so wily a Tem∣per and so sharp a Wit, that having long conversed among the Chri∣stians, and acquainted himself with all the Sects that had been before him, he introduced a new kind of Superstition, which has, as we see, almost rooted out Christianity. Moreover, having got together a great Army of Arabians, he was so hardy as to encroach upon the Borders of the Roman Empire, but Heraclius soon put a stop to his Motion, ha∣ving by Promises and Bribes prevailed with his Soldiers to make a Re∣volt from him.

As for Pope Boniface, he was a person of singular Humanity, Cle∣mency, and obliging Deportment towards all men, and neglected no part of the Duty of a good Bishop. He ordained, that Criminals who fled for Refuge to Churches, should not be taken thence by force; that the Acolythi should not meddle with the Reliques of the Martyrs, that belonging to Presbyters and Sub-deacons; and that in every place those who were guilty of sacriledg should be Excommunicated. He built and dedicated the Coemetery of S. Nicomedes, and was in an extraordinary manner liberal and munificent towards those of the Clergy who led exemplary Lives. At this time Gallus a Scholar of S. Columbanus lived so devoutly, that he deserved to be canonized a Saint even in his life∣time. Eustachius the Abbat followed his Example, and so did S. Aurea, in honour to whom Eligius built a Nunnery. 'Tis said also, that at this time one Basilius was very famous for his Life and Learning, and in both equal to Isidore himself. Our Boniface having been in the Chair five years, ten days, died, and was buried in the Church of S. Peter. By his death See was vacant thirteen days.

HONORIUS I.

HONORIUS, a Campanian, Son of Petronius, a man of Consular Dignity, entred upon the Pontificate at the time when Theudelinda died, and her Son Adoaldus was deposed, Arioaldus being made King in his stead. At which time Heraclius, who had been victorious over the Persians, was very urgent to have all the Jews who were Subjects to the Empire baptized. Here∣upon the Saracens and Arabians taking up Arms, Anno Dom. 623. gain'd such a Victory over Heraclius's Army, that they rendred that successful Man the most unfortunate. This was done under the Conduct of Ma∣homet,

who pretending himself to be the great Prophet of God, and de∣luding the Asians and Africans by Magical Arts, put such vigour into the people who embraced his new Religion, that he was very near to have ruin'd the Empire; having taken Alexandria, and several impor∣tant Cities of Syria and Cilicia. He had for his followers the Saracens, so called from Sarah Abraham's lawful Wife, as if they were the only legitimate Successours and Heirs of the divine Promise. The crafty man herein followed the Example of Jeroboam, who prescrib'd distinct Rules of Worship to his Tribes, that they might not be subject to the Jewish Government. The same also afterwards did the Greeks who dissented from the Catholicks, not only for the sake of Religion, but Empire, up∣on the score of which they followed the Errours of the Nestorians, Jaco∣bites, and Ebionites. But in the end their pertinacy reduc'd them to that pass, that their Religion and Government were dissolved together, and they brought into the vilest servitude. But Mahomet (as we see in the Alcoran) that he might separate his Disciples as far as possible from Christianity, in composing his Laws followed the Example of several Hereticks, and especially the Nestorians; collecting here and there, and reducing into one Body, many things repugnant to the Law of Moses and the Gospel. 'Tis said that at this time Heraclius, distrust∣ing his own strength, struck up an inglorious Peace with the Saracens, and that being impos'd upon by the Arts of Pyrrhus Patriarch of Constan∣tinople, and Cyrus Bishop of Alexandria, he fell off to the Heresie of the Monothelites, a Sect so called from their asserting one Will only in Christ. But these Seducers, at the Instance of Honorius who was very diligent to reclaim Heraclius, were afterwards banished. And Hono∣rius having now some respite from other cares, by his Learning and Example proved a great Reformer of the Clergy. The Church of S. Peter he covered with Brass taken out of the Temple of Jupiter Capi∣tolinus; repaired that of S. Agnes in the Via Nomentana, as appears by an Inscription in Verse therein, and likewise that of S. Pancras in the Via Aurelia; built those of S. Anastasius, S. Cyriacus, seven miles from Rome in the Via Ostiensis, and S. Severinus in Tivoli; all which he made very stately, and adorn'd with Gold, Silver, Porphyry, Marble, and all manner of Ornamental workmanship. He repaired also the Coemetery of SS. Marcellinus and Peter in the Via Labicana, and was at the charge of building other Churches, besides those before-mentioned. More∣over, he ordained that every Saturday a Procession with Litanies should be made from S. Apollinaris to S. Peter's. But having been in the Chair twelve years, eleven months, seventeen days, he died, and was buried in the Church of S. Peter, October the 12th. By his death the See was vacant one year, seven months, eighteen days.

SEVERINUS I.

SEVERINUS, a Roman, Son of Labienus, being chosen in the place of Honorius deceased, was confirmed therein by Isaa∣cius Exarch of Italy, the Election of the Clergy and People being at this time reckoned null and void, without the Assent of the Em∣perours or their Exarchs. Now Isaacius having made a Journey to Rome upon the occasion of confirming this Pope, that he might not lose his labour, fairly sets himself to plunder the Lateran Treasury, being assisted in that attempt by several Citizens, though he were resisted for a time, but in vain, by the Clergy of that Church, the principal of which he afterwards banished. The ground of this Action, was Isaa∣cius's Resentment that the Clergy alone should grow rich, without con∣tributing to the Charge of the Wars, especially at a time when the Sol∣diers were reduc'd to the greatest want and extremity. Part of the spoil he distributed among the Soldiers, part he carried away with him to Ravenna, and of the rest he made a Present to the Emperour. Those of the Saracens, who had been listed by Heraclius, being discontented for want of Pay, march'd into Syria, and made themselves Masters of Damascus, a City subject to the Empire. Then joyning with the other Arabians, and being furnished with Provisions and Arms, and heated by Mahomet's Zeal, they over-run Phoenicia and Egypt, and put to the Sword all those who refused to subscribe to their Government, and Ma∣homet's Religion. Advancing thence against the Persians, and having slain Hormisda the Persian King, they ceased not to commit all manner of outrages upon that People, till they had entirely reduced them to subjection. But Heraclius having intelligence of what work these Sa∣racens made, especially upon their taking of Antioch, and searing that they might possess themselves of Jerusalem it self, (which they not long after did,) took care to have the Cross of our Saviour conveyed to Constantinople, that it might not again come into the hands of the Aga∣rens, (for so the Greeks in contempt call the Arabians, as descending from Agar Abraham's Servant.) But Mahomet, as we are told, dying at Mecha, was succeeded in the Command by Calipha, and he by Hali; who being laid aside for his being too superstitious, the Egyptians make another Calipha their Commander. 'Tis said also, that to complete the Calamities of the Roman Empire, Sisebute King of the Goths, did at this time recover out of the hands of the Romans all the Cities of Spain; and so a period was put to the Roman Government in that Countrey.

As for 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who was a person of extraordinary Piety and Reli∣gion, a Lover of the Poor, kind to those in affliction, liberal to all, and in adorning of Churches very munificent, having been in the Chair one year, two months, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, Au∣gust the 2d. The See was then vacant four months, twenty days.

JOHN IV.

JOHN the fourth, a Dalmatian, Son of Venantius, entring upon the Pontificate, forthwith expressed a wonderful Com∣passion, in employing the remainder of the Treasury of the Church which Isaacius had left behind him, for the redem∣ption of a multitude of Istrians and Dalmatians who had been taken Captive. In the mean time Rhotaris, who succeeded Ario∣aldus in the Kingdom of Lombardy, though he were a person eminent for Justice and Piety, yet became a Favourer of the Arians, and per∣mitted that in every City of his Kingdom, there should be at the same time two Bishops of equal Authority, the one a Catholick, and the other an Arian. He was a Prince of great Parts, and reduc'd the Laws, which Memory and Use alone had before retain'd, methodically into a Book which he ordered to be called the Edict. His Excellency in Military Skill appear'd, in that he made himself Master of all Tuscany, and Li∣guria, with the Sea-coast as far as Marseille. But in the sixth year of his Reign he died, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Kingdom to his Son Rhodoaldus. 'Tis re∣ported, that a certain Priest entring by night into the Church of S. John Baptist, and there opening the Tomb in which the Body of Rhotaris lay, rob'd it of all the things of value with which the Bodies of Kings are wont to be interred. Hereupon John Baptist, a Saint to whom Rhotaris had been in his life-time very much devoted, appear'd to the Priest, and threatned him with Death, if he ever entred his Church again. The like happened even in our times to Cardinal Luigi, Patriarch of Aqui∣leia, whose Sepulchre was broke open and pillaged by those very men whom he himself had enriched and raised from a mean condition to the Sacerdotal Dignity. Rhodoaldus entring upon the Government of the Kingdom, marries Gundiberga the Daughter of Queen Theudelinda, who imitating her Mother's Devotion, built and richly adorned a Church in Honour to S. John Baptist at Terracina, in like manner as Theudelinda had done at Monza. But Rhodoaldus being taken in Adultery, was slain by the Husband of the Adulteress. Successour to him was Aripertus Son of Gudualdus, and Brother of Queen Theudelinda; he built our Sa∣viour's Chappel at Pavia, and very much beautified and plentifully en∣dowed it.

Pope John fearing now lest the Bodies of Vincentius and Anastasius might sometime or other be violated by the barbarous Nations, took care to have them safely conveyed to Rome, and with great Solemnity reposited them in the Oratory of S. John Baptist, near the Baptistery of the Lateran. We are told, that in his Pontificate Vincentius Bishop of Beauvais, and Muardus Arch-bishop of Reims, were in great esteem for their Learning and Sanctity. Moreover, Reginulpha a French Lady was very eminent for Piety, and Renaldus Bishop of Trajetto famous for his Life and Miracles. Jodocus also was not inferiour to any of these, who though he were the Son of a King of the Britains, yet despising worldly Greatness, he became for some time an Hermit, and died at

length in an obscure Village. Pope John having been in the Chair one year, nine months, nine days, died, and was buried in the Church of S. Peter, October the 12th. The See was then vacant one month, thirteen days.

THEODORUS I.

THEODORUS, a Grecian, Son of Theodorus a Bishop, born at Jerusalem, was no sooner in the Chair, but he applyed him∣self, like a good Bishop, to all those things which he thought might tend to the advancement of the Christian Religion; be∣ing a person obliging to all men, but extraordinarily bountiful to the poor.

At this time Heraclius died of a Dropsie in the thirtieth year of his Reign, having a little before made Theodorus, surnamed Calliopa, his Ex∣arch in Italy, in the place of Isaacius deceased. Heraclius was succeed∣ed by his Son Constantine, who in the fourth month after his coming to the Empire was poisoned by the procurement of his Step-mother Mar∣tina and her Son Heracleon, whom, it is said, Pyrrhus the Patriarch prom∣pted to commit that Villany. Heracleon upon the Death of his Brother takes upon him the Government, at that time particularly when Cyrus, Sergius, and Pyrrhus reviving the Heresie of the Acephali, maintained the Opinion of one only Nature in Christ, one Operation, and one Will. Among these Pyrrhus hearing of the Death of Heraclius, and being very desirous to return out of Asrica, whither he had been banished, into his own Countrey, coming to Rome, and making an hypocritical Retracta∣tion of his Errours, was restored by Theodorus, and received from him a Form of Belief. But he lost his Life before he could accomplish the end which he sought to compass by such ill means. For the Senate and people of Constantinople being acquainted with the cause of Constantine's Death, first seize Martina and Heracleon, and having cut off his Nose, and cut out her Tongue, banish them both; then apprehending Pyrrhus who endeavoured to make his escape, they put him to Death. Constan∣tius the Son of Constantine, who had been thus treacherously murdered, they create Emperour; and instead of Pyrrhus make Paul their Bishop; whom yet Theodorus deprived for being in the like kind Heretical, his pertinacy therein being favoured by Constantius, who was unadvisedly fallen into the same Heresie. But the Pope laying aside this Contro∣versie, and applying himself to other cares, caused the bones of the Mar∣tyrs Primus and Felicianus to be removed out of a sandy Grotto in the Via Nomentana to Rome, where he reposited them in the Church of S. Stephen the Proto-martyr, sparing no cost in Ornaments both of Silver and Gold upon their Tomb. He also built and adorn'd a Church in the Via Flaminia, as likewise two Oratories, one near the Lateran Church dedicated to S. Sebastian, the other in the Via Ostiensis to Eupolus the Martyr. Having finished these things, and been in the Chair six years. five months, eighteen days, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's, May the 14th. The See was then vacant fifty two days.

MARTINUS I.

MARTINUS the first, born at Todi, Son of Fabricius, succeeding Theodorus, forthwith dispatches his Legates to Con∣stantinople, to admonish Paul to quit his Errours, and at length to return into the way of Truth. But he not only disobeyed the Popes Commands, but also, being countenanced therein by Constantius, of∣fered great indignities to these Legates, and then banish'd them into se∣veral Islands. Martinus highly resenting this usage, calls a Synod of an hundred and fifty Bishops at Rome, wherein he renews the Condemna∣tion of Cyrus of Alexandria, Sergius, and Pyrrhus, and excommunicates and deprives Paul the Patriarch with the bitterest Anathemas imaginable.

While these things were transacting, the Peace of Italy, which had lasted between the Romans and the Lombards, thirty years, began now to be disturbed. For the Lombards took mightily upon them, and imposed such unjust conditions upon the Romans as they could not sub∣mit to; particularly Rhotaris being himself an Arian, had scarce any City over which he did not set up an Arian as well as a Catholick Bishop. This was an Evil which both Theodorus and Martine had often endea∣voured to remedy, but in vain. For this reason, and also at the in∣stance of Theodorus the Exarch, a War was proclaimed with the Lom∣bards, whereupon they take up Arms, and near Scultenna a River of Modena, a sharp Engagement there was on both sides. But in the end Theodorus was vanquish'd and routed, and lost in the fight near seven thousand of his Men. Rhotaris being flush'd with this Victory, in a short time easily made himself Master of all Liguria. Now Constantius hoping that the change of his General might change his Fortune too, recalls Theodorus, and sends Olympuis his Exarch into Italy, with Instru∣ctions, both to propagate the Sect of the Monothelites throughout Italy, and also either to put Pope Martine to Death, or else to take care to have him sent Prisoner to Constantinople. Olympius coming to Rome, where there had been already a Synod held against this and other the Errours of the Oriental Church, and finding that he could not disperse the Contagion as he thought to do, sends one of his Officers to seize Martine in the Church of S. Maria Maggiore, and either to bring him to him, or else to kill him if he refus'd and made resistance. The Of∣ficer being just ready to execute this Order, was by Miracle suddenly struck with blindness; and so by divine Providence Martine escaped the danger. The Saracens taking heart upon this great dissention between the Eastern and Western Church, set sail from Alexandria with a great Fleet, and arriving at Rhodes, and taking the City, they destroyed the fa∣mous and celebrated Coloss there, with the Brass of which it's said they loaded nine hundred Camels; this Coloss being seventy foot high, the Workmanship of Chares the Scholar of Lysippus. Afterwards having possessed themselves of several Islands in the Archipelago, and thence sail∣ing to Sicily, they very much infested the Inhabitants of that Island. Hereupon Olympius at the entreaty of Pope Martine, makes an Expe∣dition and forces them thence; though not without the loss of many of

his Ships and Men, and even that of his own Life too, for he fell sick in Sicily and died there. But Constantius, who was not in the least bettered by all these Calamities, commands Theodorus Calliopa again into Italy, with express Order, that he should forthwith send Pope Martine bound to him; and to assist him in that Affair, he joins Paulus Pellarius with him, who was to take care to see it done. Theodorus having been ho∣nourably received by the Romans, and going upon pretence of making a Visit to the Pope, seizes and puts him in Fetters, and so sends him to Constantinople, from whence he was afterwards banish'd to the Chersonese, the place where Clemens Romanus had formerly been an Exile. Now Mar∣tine being thus compassed with Calamities, and pinch'd with extreme want, at length dies in Banishment, after he had been in the Chair six years, one month, twenty six days. And because it was long before there came certain intelligence of his Death, the See was vacant fourteen months.

EUGENIUS I.

EUGENIUS, a Roman, Son of Ruffinianus, succeeded Mar∣tine about the time that in the place of Paul the Heretick, Peter was made Patriarch of Constantinople. Who though he were a little more Orthodox than Paul, yet did not in all things agree in Doctrine with the Roman Church. His Letters sent to Rome, in which he denied two Operations and Wills in Christ, were so explo∣ded, that the Clergy took upon them to interdict the Pope's celebrating Mass in S. Maria Maggiore, till he had first publickly declared his dis∣like of them.

In the mean time Grimoaldus Duke of Beneventum, leaving his Son to govern at home, and marching with a great Army into Lombardy, forced Pertheri and Gundibert, the two Sons of Aripertus, to quit Pavia and Milain. Of which Clodoveus the French King having intelligence, he out of compassion to the young Princes, immediately sends a consider∣able Force into Italy, to recover their Right for them. Beyond the Po Battel is joyn'd, and the Dispute managed very briskly on both sides, the young Princes being eager to retrieve their paternal possessions, and he endeavouring as much to keep what he had gain'd by War. At length Fortune inclin'd to Grimoaldus his side, and the French were routed, and driven out of Italy. We are told by some, that the French were out∣witted by the Enemy after this manner; The Lombards dissembled a Flight, leaving their Tents furnished with plenty of all manner of Pro∣visions, and especially of Wine, but not far off they made a halt watch∣ing their opportunity; the French entring their Tents, and thinking they had been really fled, fall to feasting, and eat and drink to such ex∣cess, that the Enemy coming upon them and finding them dead asleep and lying about like beasts, they made such a slaughter of them, that there was scarce one left alive to carry the News to Clodoveus. Grimo∣aldus growing confident upon this Victory, quickly makes himself Ma∣ster of the whole Province. As for Pope Eugenius, who was a person of very great Piety, Religion, Meekness, Humanity and Munificence,

having been in the Chair two years, nine months, he died, and was bu∣ried in the Church of S. Peter, June the 2d. The See was then vacant one month, twenty eight days.

VITALIANUS I.

VITALIANUS born at Segna a Town of the Volsci, the Son of Anastasius, entred upon the Pontificate at the time when Caesarea the Persian Queen, attended only with a few of her Confidents, and without the knowledg of her Husband, came to Constantinople, in the year 683. She was very honourably re∣ceived by the Emperour, and not long after baptized, for the sake of which it was that she came thither. The Persian King having intelligence hereof, forthwith sends Ambassadours to Constantinople to demand his Wife of the Emperour. To them the Emperour answered, That it was in the Queen's choice to stay or go, and therefore they should enquire of her pleasure. The Queen being ask'd, made Answer, That she would never return into her Countrey, unless the King would become a Chri∣stian. Who being acquainted herewith, comes forthwith in a peaceable manner with forty thousand men to Constantinople; where being recei∣ved by the Emperour with all expressions of kindness, he together with his Soldiers were baptized, and then he returned with his Queen into his own Kingdom. After this Constantius, having associated to himself in the Government his Son Constantine, and prepared a great Fleet, setting sail from Constantinople, arrives at Tarentum, bringing with him in Ships of burden a great Force of Land-Soldiers. From thence he advanced by Land into Abruzzo, with design to besiege Beneventum. But under∣standing that that City was very strongly Garison'd, and plentifully fur∣nished with Provisions by the care of Rhomoaldus, he marched to Lucera, which he took, and plundered, and then levell'd with the ground. Pas∣sing from hence to Acherontia, and not being not able to make himself Master of so well fortified a place, he again attempts the Siege of Be∣neventum, but soon raises it, upon intelligence that Grimoaldus would suddenly be there with a great Army, to assist his Son Rhomoaldus. Hereupon Constantius moving first towards Naples, though very much incommoded in his passage, and having left 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Roman Citizen with twenty thousand men at Formiae to oppose the Enemy, at length he comes to Rome, the Pope, and Clergy, and People in honour to him going six miles out of the City to meet him. And being conducted through the City with great Acclamations to the Church of S. Peter, he there made a very rich Present. In the mean time Rhomoaldus, presu∣ming upon the Supplies he receiv'd from his Father, joins Battel with Saburrus, conquers him, and puts to the Sword a great number of the Greeks. Constantius being enraged and growing almost desperate upon this misfortune, on the fifth day after his entrance into the City, falls a plundering, takes away all the Statues of Brass and Marble set up in the principal parts of the City, and the rich Ornaments of the Churches, and lades his Ships with them; and in seven days did more damage to

Rome, than the barbarous Nations had done before in two hundred and fifty eight years; so that ill men, ignorant of History, have no reason to say, that the Statues and Monuments of Antiquity were demolished by Pope Gregorie's Order. On the twelfth day the vile and perfidious paul∣try Greek 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Rome, with a vengeance to him, goes towards Naples, thence to Sicily, being so severe in his exaction of Tribute wherever he came, as to take away Children out of the embraces of their Pa∣rents who could not pay him. But the covetous wretch, staying some time in Sicily, as he was bathing for pleasure at Syracuse, was slain; and Mezentius, who is thought to have been the contriver of his Death, was by the Soldiers made Emperour in his stead. This Constantius, was a person of a strange 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and inconstancy of Mind. For at first, hear∣ing that Vitalianus was chosen Pope, he sent his Ambassadours to con∣gratulate him, and to make a Present of the Gospels written in letters of Gold and set with Jewels, to S. Peter. Whereas afterwards his mind being changed, he cast off all regard to God and Man, and turned all things both divine and humane topsy-turvy. But Vitalianus being in∣tent upon sacred things, composed Ecclesiastical Canons, and regulated singing in the Church, introducing Organs to be used with the Vocal Musick. He also sent, with ample Power of binding and loosing, Theo∣dorus an Arch-bishop and Adrian an Abbat, two very learned and pious men into England, that by their Preaching and Example they might keep that people stedfast in the Faith; which the good men did what they could to perform. This Theodorus also wrote a Book, shewing, by what Pennance every sin may be wash'd off; though some ascribe that Work to Pope Theodorus. Now Vitalianus having govern'd the Church as well as lay in his power fourteen years, six months, died, and was buried in S. Peter's, January the 27th. The See was then va∣cant four months, fifteen days.

ADEODATUS I.

ADEODATUS, a Roman, Son of Jovinian, was of a Monk created Pope, at the time when Lupus Duke of Friuli endea∣voured to posses himself of the Kingdom of Italy. For Gri∣moaldus being (as we have said) called by his Son Rhomoaldus Duke of Beneventum to aid him against Constantius the Emperour, at his depar∣ture commended his People to the care of Lupus, and so, according to the Proverb, left the Sheep to the keeping of the * 1.175 Wolf. For Lupus taking the advantage of Grimoaldus his absence, involves all Tuscany, Ro∣mandiola, and a great part of Lombardy in tumult and confusion. Here∣upon Grimoaldus by gifts and promises prevails with Caganus to ad∣vance with his Avares against Lupus; which he did, and in the first Engagement had the worst of it. But the next day renewing the Fight, he overcame and slew Lupus, and then sack'd and laid waste all Friuli. Grimoaldus, upon Constantius his leaving Italy, returns in∣to Lombardy, and in his way on the Saturday before Easter takes Forlimpopoli; puts all the Inhabitants of it to the sword, plunders it, and then levels it to the ground, upon the score of an injury which

he had received there from the people of Ravenna, in his passage to the Aid of his Son. Now Arnefites the Son of Lupus, being assisted by the Dalmatians, endeavoured to recover his Father's Dukedom; but near the River Natisone, he was vanquish'd and slain by the Lombards. The Inhabitants of Vderzo had a share in his Misfortune, being forced to quit their Countrey for having countenanced him in his pretensions. At this time Sicily also was in a bad condition; for Soldiers were sent thither out of all the Provinces of Italy to make head against Mezen∣tius by whose treachery Constantius had been murdered. Who being overcome and slain, and the Soldiers again dispersed, the Saracens arriving with a great Fleet surprize Syracuse and possess themselves of the whole Island. After some time they return to Alexandria loaded with spoil, and carry away with them those Ornaments of the City of Rome, which Constantius had brought to Syracuse with design to transmit them to Constantinople. These miseries and Calamities had been portended by a Comet which appeared three months together; by great Rains and frequent Thunders, such as had not been at any time known before. But such is the blindness of Mankind, that though they be warn'd of future Evils, yet they do not, as they ought, provide against them. 'Tis reported, that all the standing Corn which had been lodg'd by the continued Rains, grew yet up again, and came to maturity, especially in Lombardy. In the mean time Adeodatus, being a person of great Piety and Humanity, merciful towards Offenders, bountiful to the poor, hospitable towards strangers, and compassionate towards all in Calamity, repaired and dedicated the Church of S. Peter in the Via Por∣tuensis. He also added to the Building and Revenues of the Monastery of S. Erasmus on Mons Coelius, wherein himself had been a Monk. Moreover, he appointed frequent Litanies upon the account of those Prodigies which we have said appear'd at that time. At length having been in the Chair four years, two months, five days, he died, and was with general lamentation buried in S. Peter's, June the 26th. The See was then vacant four months, twenty days.

DONUS I.

DONUS, a Roman, Son of Mauritius, was made Pope at the time when Grimoaldus King of the Lombards, drawing a Bow high to shoot at a Pigeon, and thereby straining his Nerves and Veins, though it were nine days after he had been let Blood in the Arm, yet thereupon it fell a bleeding afresh, and could not be stanch'd till he died. There were in this King several excel∣lent Endowments both of Body and Mind. He was a person of great Wisdom and Prudence in all Affairs; and added several things very useful to Rhotaris his Edict, which afterwards receiv'd the Form of a Law. He was of a middle Stature, strong Constitution, had a bald head, and long beard; and was every way fitted for Action. He was buried at Pavia in the Church of S. Ambrose, which he had built

at his own charge. Pertharis, Son of King Aripertus, who as we have said, had been deprived of his Right by Grimoaldus, passing now during his Exile out of France into Britain, was prompted by a Voice which he knew not from whence it came, that Grimoaldus being dead he should seek to recover his paternal Inheritance. Encouraged by this Voice, though the Author of it were uncertain, he returned into Italy, and within three months after Grimoaldus's Death became repossess'd of his Father's Kingdom without any opposition. About the same time died Dagobert the French King, a subtil and crafty Prince, and who was equal∣ly fitted for Counsel and Action; whose Soul, when it had been car∣ried by Devils almost as far as the Island of Lipara, is reported to have been delivered out of their Clutches, by Dennis and Maurice the Mar∣tyrs, and Martin the Confessour, Saints for whom as his Patrons he had all his life-time a great veneration, and had been very liberal in beautifying and enriching their Churches. Now Pope Donus consult∣ing the honour of the Church, paved the Porch of S. Peter's, called Paradise, with Marble, which he took as I suppose from the Pyramide over against Castel S. Angelo. Moreover, he repaired and dedicated in the Via Ostiensis the Church of the Apostles, and in the Via Appia that of S. Euphemia. He also appointed the several degrees of honour and distance to be yielded to the several Orders of the Clergy. And discovering in the Boethian Monastery a Company of Syrian Monks who were of the Nestorian Heresie, them he censured and dispersed into divers other Monasteries, assigning their own to Roman Monks. By his eminent Learning and Piety, and through the submission of Theodorus Bishop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he reduced to Obedience to the Aposto∣lick See the Church of Ravenna, which had for a considerable time separated it self from that of Rome, and upon that account had got the name of Allocephalis. Some tell us that in his time Projectus a Bishop, underwent the torment and acquired the glory of Martyr∣dom for the cause of Christianity; and that Mezelindis a Woman of incomparable Chastity, being solicited by her Lover Ardenius, and upon her not yielding to his desires put to divers Torments by him, yet prayed so fervently even for her Persecutor, whom God for this Crime had struck with blindness, that upon her Prayers his Sight was restored to him. Our Donus having been in the Chair five years, ten days, died, and was buried in S. Peter's, April the 10th. The See was then vacant two months, sixteen days.

AGATHO I.

AGATHO, a Sicilian, was Anno Dom. 702. of a Monk made Pope; a person of great Piety, and who cured a Leper, whom he chanced to meet with, only by a kiss. He was a man of so obliging a temper, that no person went away sad out of his Presence. And being so happy as to have a Contemporary Emperour like himself, he designed to hold a Council vpon the account of the Monothelites. Only he waited the time till Constantine should return from the War, who had vanquish'd the Saracens, and made them tributary to the Roman Empire. But the Bulgarians advancing out of Scythia into Thrace, and the Emperour en∣deavouring to put a check to their motion, he was with great loss routed between Hungary and Moesia. Hereupon, he found himself obliged to strike up a peace with them upon disadvantageous terms, per∣mitting them to inhabit Hungary and Moesia; though that Concession in the event proved a great benefit to the State of Christianity. For these are the men who for this seven hundred and seventy years since have maintained a continual War, and been the Bulwark of Christendom against the Turks. Well, a Peace being upon these Conditions conclu∣ded, Pope Agatho sends to Constantinople his Legates John Bishop of Porto, and John a Deacon of Rome. Them Constantine receiv'd with all expressions of respect, and very affectionately advised them to lay aside all Cavils and sophistical wranglings and Controversies, and sincerely to endeavour the uniting the two Churches. There were present at this Synod two hundred and eighty nine Bishops; and by the Com∣mand of the Emperour there were brought out of the Library of Con∣stantinople those Books, from whence the Opinions and Determinations of the Ancients might be collected. Gregory Patriarch of Constantinople, and Macarius Bishop of Antioch, perverting the sense of the Fathers maintain'd only one Will and Operation in Christ. But the Orthodox pressing hard with their Reasons and Authorities, they thereby reclaim∣ed Gregory; and Macarius adhering obstinately to his Opinion, they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him and his Followers, and made Theophanes, an Or∣thodox Abbat, Bishop of Antioch in his stead. This Affair being thus successfully managed, that thanks might be return'd to God for this Union of the two Churches in heart and mind, John Bishop of Porto, on the Octave of Easter, in the presence of the Emperour, Patriarch and the People of Constantinople, in the Church of S. Sophia celebrates the Mass in Latin, all that were present approving that way, and con∣demning those that thought otherwise. This was the sixth General Council, consisting of two hundred and eighty nine Bishops, held at Constantinople, wherein upon the Authority of Cyril, Athanasius, Basil, Gregory, Dionysius, Hilary, Ambrose, Augustine, and Hierom, it was con∣cluded that there were two Wills and Operations in Christ, and their pertinacy was exploded who asserted one Will only, from whence they were called Monothelites. The first General Council, of three hun∣dred

and eighteen Bishops, was, as we have already said, held at Nice, in the Pontificate of Julius and the Reign of Constantine, against Ari∣us, who asserted several Substances in the Trinity. The second at Constantinople of an hundred and fifty Bishops in the Reign of Gratian and the Pontificate of Damasus, against Macedonius and Eudoxus who de∣nied the Holy Ghost to be God. The third in Ephesus, of two hundred Bishops, in the Reign of Theodosius the second, and the Pontificate of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, against Nestorius Bishop of Constantinople, who denied the Blessed Virgin to be the Mother of God, and made Christs Humanity and Divinity two Persons, asserting separately one to be the Son of God, the other the son of Man. The fourth at Chalcedon, a City over against Constantinople, of six hundred and thirty Prelates, in the Pon∣tificate of Leo and the Reign of Martian, against Eutyches Abbat of Constantinople, who durst affirm, that our Saviour after his Incarna∣tion had but one Nature. The fifth at Constantinople, against Theodo∣rus and all other Hereticks, who asserted the Virgin Mary to have brought forth Man only, not God-man; in which Synod it was con∣cluded, that the Blessed Virgin should be styled 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or the Mother of God. Concerning the sixth Synod we have spoken alrea∣dy, in which the Letters of Damianus Bishop of Pavia, and Mansue∣tus Arch-bishop of Milain were very prevalent; the principal Contents of them these, viz. The true Faith concerning Christ, God and Man, is, that we believe two Wills and two Operations in him; Our Sa∣viour says with respect to his Divinity, I and my Father are one; but* 1.176 with relation to his Humanity, My Father is greater than I. More∣over,* 1.177 as Man he was found asleep in the Ship; as God he commanded the Winds and the Sea. As for our Agatho, (in whose time after two Ecclipses, one of the Moon, another of the Sun, there followed a grie∣vous Pestilence,) having been in the Chair two years, six months, sif∣teen days, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's, January the 10th. The See was then vacant one year, five months.

LEO II.

LEO the second, a Sicilian, Son of Paul, was as appears by his Writings, a person throughly learned in the Latin and Greek Languages. Having also good skill in Musick, he composed Notes upon the Psalms, and very much improved all Church Musick. He ordained likewise, that at the Ce∣lebration of the Mass the Pax should be given to the people. More∣over, he so vigorously maintained and asserted the sixth Synod, of which we have spoken in the Life of Agatho, that he Excommunicated all those whom in the presence of Constantine that Synod had condem∣ned. He also repress'd the pride of the Bishops of Ravenna, a matter before attempted by Pope Agatho, and ordained that the Election of the Clergy of Ravenna should be invalid, unless it were confirmed by the Authority of the Roman See; whereas before they presuming upon the power of their Exarchs, managed all things arbitrarily, owning no subjection to any, but mating even the Popes themselves. He likewise solemnly decreed, that no person promoted to the dignity of an Arch∣bishop should pay any thing for the use of the Pall, or upon any other score, a Decree which I could wish it were observed at this day, seeing how many Evils have arisen through Bribery. While Leo was busied in these matters, Rhomoaldus Duke of Beneventum, having raised a great Army, possess'd himself of Taranto, Brindisi, and all Puglia, and his Wife Theodata, a devout Lady, out of the spoils of the War built a Church in honour to S. Peter not far from Beneventum, and a Nunnery. Rho∣moaldus dying was succeeded by his Son Grimoaldus, who deceasing with∣out Issue male, left the Dukedom to his Brother Gisulphus.

Our Leo, who besides his great Learning and Eloquence, was also an extraordinary person for Devotion and Charity, and by his Doctrine and Example very much promoted Justice, Fortitude, Clemency, and Good Will among all men, having been in the Chair only ten months, died, and June the 28th, was accompanied to his burial in the Church of S. Peter with the tears of all men, who deplored the loss of him as of a Common Father. After his Death the See was vacant eleven months, twenty one days. The time of his Pontificate was short, but the Reputation he gain'd therein so great, that one would think he had lived longer than he did, by the celebrated Name which he had deser∣vedly acquired in so little time.

BENEDICT II.

BENEDICT the second, a Roman, his Father's Name John, being from his Youth brought up to the Clergy, was so intent upon the study of Holy Writ, that he became an extraordinary Proficient in Divinity. He was likewise a per∣son of great Compassion, Charity, and good Will towards all, espcially the Poor; Virtues by which he so won the Hearts of men, that he was pitch'd upon as the only person, who by general consent was fit to succeed in the Place of Leo deceased. The Emperour Constantine out of the Veneration he had for this mans Sanctity, sent him a Decree, in which it was established that for the time to come He whom the Clergy and People of Rome should chuse Pope, should be forthwith acknowledged Christ's true Vicar, without expecting the Authority of the Emperour or his Exarchs, according to former usage, when the con∣firmation of the Emperour or his Vicegerent in Italy was necessary to the creation of a Pope. Pertheris now King of the Lombards, in imita∣tion of the Religion and Charity of Benedict, built a Monastery in ho∣nour to S. Agatha at Pavia; and his Wife Rhodelinda prompted by the Example of her Husband built the Church of S. Mary ad Perticas with∣out the Walls of Pavia. This they did out of a Principle of Emula∣tion, understanding that Pope Benedict had with vast expence repaired, beautified and enriched the Churches of S. Peter at Rome, that of S. Lau∣rence in Lucina, that of S. Valentine in the Via Flaminia, and that of S. Mary ad Martyres. Pertheris had designed greater things of this Na∣ture, but he was diverted by Alalchis Duke of Trent, who being pust'd up by a great Victory which he had gain'd over the Bavarians, turns his Arms against his King. But Pertheris raising an Army, at the first Engagement routs him, besieges Trent whither he had fled for Refuge, and though Alalchis had first made his escape thence by night, takes the City. However, Pertheris was a Prince of so great Clemency as to receive him again into favour upon his submission, and to make him Duke of Brescia. Some tell us, that in Benedict's time an extraordinary Star was seen near the Vergiliae several Nights together in a clear Sky be∣tween Christmas and Epiphany. I deny not but that a Comet then ap∣peared, and portended something; but it's Neighbourhood to this Con∣stellation is incoherent, unless we make that prodigious too. For the Vergiliae rise at the Vernal Equinox, when the Sun enters the Sign Aries, about the twenty fourth of March, and begin to set at the Autumnal Equinox. But that out of Vesuvius, a Mountain in Campania, so great a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 did at this time burst forth, that it burnt up all the places round about it, may seem less wonderful, considering that Pliny the Natural Historian, leaving the Ships which he commanded under Trajan, and approaching too near it out of curiosity to find out the causes of it's burning, lost his life by that means. However, 'tis certain, that not long after these things there followed Slaughters, Rapines, Fires, the Death of great Men, and particularly of Pope Benedict, who, as he was uni∣versally

beloved in his life-time, so after his Death he was famous for his Piety, and the good Offices he had done to mankind. He was in the Chair only ten months, twelve days, and was buried in S Peter's, May the 15th. By his Death the See was vacant two months, fifteen days.

JOHN V.

JOHN the fifth, by Nation a Syrian born at Antioch, his Father's Name Cyriacus, was created Pope about the time when the Emperour Constantine died, in the seventeenth year of his Reign, and left the Empire to his Son Justinian the second. The Saracens now invaded Lybia and Africa, and possess'd themselves easily of all the places that lay towards the Sea. But Justinian, having in some measure setled the affairs of his Empire, and raised a competent Army, advancing against these Sara∣cens, struck such a terrour into Abimelech their Chief, that without en∣gaging he sued for a Peace, and was glad to restore all his Acquests in Africa. And a Peace, it is said by some, was granted them for ten years, but upon Condition, that they should pay a thousand pieces of Gold and a Slave of their own Nation on Horseback every day to the Emperour. At this time John, a person of great Piety and Goodness, being by general suffrage chosen Pope in the Constantinian Church, was consecrated in the same manner with Leo the second by the three Bi∣shops of Ostia, Porto and Veletri; a Precedent which so obtained, that it was afterwards constantly practised. His Pontificate was rendred remarkable by two extraordinary persons. Felix the Uncle of Flavia∣nus, and John Bishop of Bergamo, men of such eminent Learning and Sanctity, that they received from Princes themselves marks of the highest respect and Veneration. Pope John, who both before and du∣ring his Pontificate was a sickly man, having written a Book concern∣ing the Dignity of the Pall, died in the first year after his coming to the Chair, and was buried in S. Peter's, August the 2d. By his Death the See was vacant two months, nineteen days.

CONON I.

CONON, by birth a Thracian, educated in Sicily, and thence entring into Orders at Rome, was of a Presbyter made Pope. For there happening a Controversie about the Ele∣ction, the Citizens being for Peter an Arch-bishop, and the Soldiers for one Theodorus a Priest: at length after a long Contention both Parties agreed in the Choice of Conon. And indeed he did every way deserve so great a Dignity; being a man of great Learning and very good Life, pious and devout, of a comely Person and most Venerable, or as some called it, Angelical Aspect; of wonder∣ful Simplicity and Sincerity, Modesty and Justice, Resolution and Pru∣dence. For these excellent Endowments of his all persons concern'd with mighty acclamations of Applause immediately confirm'd his Election; as did also Theodorus Exarch of Ravenna, who being deceased, was not long after succeeded in the Exarchate by John Platina, whom I believe to have given the name to the place of my Nativity, called Platina, within the Territory of Cremona. For there being frequent Wars be∣tween the Exarchs and the Kings of Lombardy, it is not improbable, considering that that place was scituated almost in the mid-way be∣tween Ravenna and Pavia, one of which was the Seat of the Lombard Kings, the other of the Exarchs, there might at some time be a Battel fought or a Camp pitched there, from whence we know that names are oftentimes given to places, as particularly in the same Countrey there is Vitelliana, a Town so called from Vitellius his encamping there, and Bebrignano not far from Bebriacum famous for the defeat which Otho there received. I return to Conon, who presently after his entrance upon the Pontificate falling sick, Paschal an Arch-deacon and manager of the Church-stock, endeavours to bribe John the Exarch, to procure him to be chosen Pope upon the Death of Conon. The Exarch took the Mo∣ney, though he afterwards performed none of the promises he had made upon that account. And indeed such a covetous and ambitious wretch deserv'd to be frustrated in his designs, who made a Bribe of that Trea∣sure of the Church, which according to Conon's Will should have been laid out in relieving the poor and repairing of Churches. A Crime to be abhorred in all men, but most detestable in an Ecclesiastick. Such a breach of trust would not have been committed by Hubert, who was now a Bishop in Bretagne, of great Note for his Learning and Piety; nor Leodegarius the Martyr Bishop of Autun, who was put to Death by Theodoric King of France, for his frequent and free reproofs; nor by Au∣doenus Bishop of Roan, a man who was second to none for Knowledg and Sanctity. These were men remov'd from Ambition and Avarice, fixing all their trust in God and Religion, and gaining thereby Reputa∣tion among men in this World, and eternal happiness from God in the other. As for Conon, having been in the Chair only eleven months, and three days, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's, September the 21st. The See was then vacant two months, twenty three days.

SERGIUS I.

SERGIUS, a Syrian, born at Antioch, son of Tiberius, coming to Rome in the time of Pope Adeodatus, was admit∣ted into the number of the Reman Clergy. Afterwards through his Industry and Improvements in divine Knowledg, advancing gradually he was ordained Parish-Priest of the Church of S. Susanna. He thereupon beginning more and more to frequent the Coemeteries, and there to perform sacred Offices, by this means he gain'd so great a reputation, that upon the Decease of Conon, he was chosen his Succes∣sour, though indeed after a long debate. For the People being divided into two Parties, one stood up for Theodorus, and the other for Paschal the Arch deacon. Theodorus with his Party had forced his entrance into the inner part of the Lateran Palace; the outer from the Oratory of S. Sylvester to the Church of the house of Julia, was possessed by Pas∣chal. But the Contention and debate growing so high, that every one thought they would come to blows, each Party resolving not to give place to the other unless by force compelled thereunto, the principal of the Citizens, Clergy and Soldiery assembled together to consult what were best to be done to lay this Tumult. At length having duly considered the whole matter, and judging it not fit to commit the Popedom to either of those who to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their own ambition had been the cause of so great disorders, by divine direction they make choice of Sergius without the least opposition; and taking him out of the midst of the croud upon their shoulders, they carry him first into the Oratory of S. Caesarius the Martyr, then into the Lateran Palace, breaking open the doors by force, and driving out those who were in it before. Theodorus seeing how all agreed in the choice, salutes Sergius by the name of Pope, and kisses him. Paschal the other Competitour did the same, though sorely against his Will, and being only aw'd thereinto by the armed multitude. For secretly and under-hand he did by Letters, Mes∣sengers and Promises so strongly sollicite John Exarch of Ravenna to perform at length what he had promis'd him for his Money, that the said John comes forthwith to Rome, without sending any advice before, that so he might have the advantage of coming upon them unprovided, and while they were off their guard. But when he understood that Sergius was by universal consent declared Pope, and urg'd the perfor∣mance of what Paschal had promis'd him, upon Sergius's expressing a high dislike and detestation of any such bribery, he violently seizes and carries away several things of value from the Church of S. Peter. As for Paschal, the occasion of this mischief, he being accused and con∣victed of Sorcery, was deprived of his Arch-Deaconry; and for Pen∣nance was confined to a Monastery, whereing after his having continued obstinate for five years, he died. In the mean time Justinian, being strangely inconstant towards God and Men, both attaques the Saracens and Bulgarians contrary to the Articles of Peace he had concluded with them; from whom yet it is certain he receiv'd more damage, than he

did to them; and also returning to Constantinople, being generally hated by the Citizens for his not restraining the cruelty of the City-prefect, he held a Synod, wherein some Decrees pass'd not agreeing with the Orthodox Faith; which also Sergius his Apocrisiary, or Nuntio,, then residing at Constantinople, very foolishly confirmed by his Subscription. But these Decrees being afterwards brought to Rome and there exploded by Sergius, who held that there were two Natures in Christ, and that the Blessed Virgin was the Mother of God, Justinian enraged thereat, sends Zacharias Protospatharius (which we may render the Captain of the Guards) to Rome, to bring Sergius bound to him. Which when the Soldiers of the Exarchate of Italy understood, they immediately took up their Arms, and not only defended the Pope from violence, but were very near having slain Zachary, had he not saved himself by flying for refuge to the Pope, who kept him for some time in his Bed-chamber, and afterwards sent him back privately to the Emperour. While these things were transacted at Rome, Leontius, encouraged by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Patriarch, having excited the People of Constantinople to take up Arms, and broke open all the Prisons of the City, whereby multitudes of Prisoners were set at liberty, deposes Justinian, and cutting off his Nose banishes him to the Chersonese of Pontus. Abimelech Admiral of the Sa∣racens having intelligence hereof, and hoping to make his advantage of these Tumults, presently invades Africa; whither Leontius with all ex∣pedition sends his Army to check their motion. But not long after a mutiny arising among the Soldiers, they create one Tiberius a Citizen of Constantinople Emperour; who immediately returning with the Army to Constantinople, seizes Leontius, and having retaliated upon him what we have said he did to Justinian, throws him into Prison, reserving him there for future greater ignominy. Moreover, he banished Philip the son of Nicephorus a Patrician, and one who had been assistant to him in getting the Empire, only because he had told his Companions how he dreamt that he saw an Eagle covering his head with her Wings; which Tiberius fear'd might be a presage of the young man's coming to the Empire. While things went thus at Constantinople, Pipin Duke of Austrasia laid the foundation of gaining the Kingdom of France. For understanding that one Bertarius, a mean fellow whom King Theodoric made use of as his chief Minister, was generally hated by all People, he marches with a vast Army into France, and being encountred in his passage by Theodoric and Bertarius, he engages in Battel with them and defeats them. Bertarius saved himself by flight; but Theodoric re∣treating, by agreement upon a Truce constitutes the victorious Pipin Mayre of the Palace, and principal Administratour of his Kingdom. After this Pipin returned to Austrasia upon intelligence that the Germans and Sueves infested his People; and having quell'd them, he sets for∣ward towards France again, upon the News that Theodoric being dead, the Kingdom had fallen to his Brother Childepert. Arriving there, and being very kindly received by the King, after he had put his son into the place of Mayre of the Palace, he again returns enraged at the Sueves and Germans, who were now the second time in Arms.

At this time Sergius, having 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the banishment of Justinian en∣joyed Peace and Tranquility, repaired the Church of S. Peter, and re∣stored to it its antient beauty. The Front of it he adorn'd with Mo∣saick

work, made the Candlesticks and other Ornaments of it of Gold and Silver; found a part of our Saviours Cross in a little brass Coffer, and because the body of S. Leo had hitherto lain less regarded than his merits required, he reposited it in a more honourable and celebrated place. The Statues of the Apostles defaced with Age he renew'd, and either repaired or made wholly new the Ornaments of many Churches which it would be tedious to enumerate. Moreover, he ordained that at the breaking of the body of our Lord should be sung, O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the World, have mercy upon us; and that on the day of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin, and of S. Si∣mon there should be yearly a Procession with Litanies through the City, setting out at S. Hadrian. He made Damianus Arch-Bishop of Ravenna, and Berslauardus Arch-Bishop of Britain. By his Learning and Authority he brought over to the Truth the Church of Aquileia, which before consented not wholly to the fifth Synod. Some tell us, that at this time Lambertus a Person of great Sanctity suffered Mar∣tyrdom at Liege, because he was so hardy as to reprove Pipin for slighting his Wive's Bed and keeping Alpais a Whore. The author of his Death is said to have been her own Brother, who afterwards died of the lousy Disease. 'Tis written also that by the exemplary Sancti∣ty of Sergius the Saxons were now first wrought upon to embrace Christianity. The good man having by these means gained a great reputation; and having been in the Chair thirteen years, eight months, twenty three days, he died, and was with the lamentation of all men, who wept as at the loss of a common Father, with great Solemnity buried in the Church of S. Peter, September the 8th. The See was then vacant one month, twenty days.

JOHN VI.

JOHN the sixth, a Grecian, was elected Pope at the time when Theophylact the Exarch in his passage to Italy arri∣ved first at Sicily. Which being known to the Italian Sol∣diers, who having of late times usually sided more with the Popes, than the Emperours, were afraid that his coming might betoken some ill, they resolved to kill him at his entrance into Rome. But by the Authority of Pope John, who made himself Umpire between them, Theophylact was protected, and all things being made up and accommodated, he goes for Ravenna. In the mean time Gisulphus Duke of Beneventum, taking heart upon this disagree∣ment of the Exarch and Soldiers, invades Terra di Lavoro, possesses himself of Sora and Arpino, burns Villages, makes the Villagers his Prisoners, and drives away their Cattel. The Pope being deeply sen∣sible of this Calamity, sends his Ambassadours to Gisulphus, to admo∣nish him to quit those places which he had no Right to, and to re∣turn into Abruzzo; which if he refus'd to do, he should soon feel the vengeance of Almighty God upon him. Gisulphus being terrified here∣by,

restores the Towns he had taken, and returns to Beneventum. Of those which were carried away Captive, Pope John redeemed all he could sind out, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as the Treasure of the Church would reach for their ransom.

At this time 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who, as we have said, had been banish'd by Leontius to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, making his escape thence comes to Cacanus King of the Avares, who at first treated him with the greatest respect and kindness, and promised him his Daughter in marriage; but afterwards being corrupted with bribes by Tiberius, he design'd to be∣tray his Guest and Son-in-law into his hands. Justinian having notice hereof, flees to Trebellius Prince of the Bulgarians, by whose aid he was in a little time after restored to the Empire. While 〈◊〉〈◊〉 things were transacted in Europe, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 being possessed of Libya and Africa, set sail from Septa, and passing over into Spain, made themselves Ma∣sters of it all, except that part inhabited by the Asturians and Bis∣cains; who as they had been the last People of Spain who were sub∣dued to the Roman Empire, and the last who revolted from it, and the only People who shook off the Yoke of the Visigoths; so now having received the Christian Faith, they were the men who continued sted∣fastly with the greatest resolution to defend themselves by Arms against the perfidious Saracens. So then, Africa, which being recovered by Belisarius General to Justinian the first, had been subject to the Ro∣man Empire an hundred and seventy years, and also Granada in Hispa∣nia 〈◊〉〈◊〉, being at this time seiz'd by the Saracens, have been obedi∣ent to their Laws and Customs now this seven hundred and forty years, to the great reproach of Christianity; the Spaniards, who are wont to boast of their Wit and Valour, not being able to drive them out of Europe. Some tell us that Bede, who lived in these times, by* 1.178 Letters written to several Christian Princes did very much bewail this Calamity, that thereby he might excite them to enter into a War against these Enemies of God and Men. This 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was not only extraordi∣narily well skill'd in the Greek and Latin Tongues, but also for his eminent Piety and Modesty, gain'd the surname of 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He wrote many things upon the Acts of the Apostles, and upon S. Luke; he published a Book of Chronology, and several Homilies, which are much used by the Gallican 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Moreover, of Strabo and Haymo, two very learned men, said to be Bede's Brethren, one composed di∣vers elegant Homilies, and the other commented upon Genesis. As for Pope John, having repaired the Church of S. Andrew in the Vatican, and the roof of that of S. Mark, and adorn'd with Pillars on each hand the Altar of S. Peter's, in the third year and third month of his Pon∣tificate he died, as some think, a Martyr; but by whom he suffered Martyrdom, does not sufficiently appear. 'Tis said he was buried in the Coemetery of S. Sebastian in the Via Appia. By his Death the See was vacant one month, nineteen days.

JOHN VII.

JOHN the seventh a Grecian, Son of Plato, enter'd upon the Pontificate at the time when Justinian being return'd to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, caused Tiberius and Leontius, by whom he had been deposed, to be publickly put to Death.

Many of his Enemies he cut off by sundry kinds of Death, and many he imprison'd; some one or other of which he would every day order to be kill'd, when the wiping of his Nose put him in mind of the injury that had been done him. Moreover, having caused the eyes of Callinicus the Patriarch of Constantinople to be put out, he banish'd him to Rome; and made Cyrus an Abbat, who had main∣tain'd him in Pontus, Patriarch in his stead. Being acted by the same foolish humour, as he had been before his loss of the Empire in the time of Pope Sergius, he sends to Rome two Metropolitans, to persuade Pope John to hold a Synod, wherein they of the Western Church might confirm the truth of what those of the East believed concerning the Consubstantiality of the Son with the Father; sending to him the Ar∣ticles to which he would have him Subscribe. The Pope sends the Men back again to the Emperour without doing any thing in the mat∣ter; but yet he did not by his Censures and Interdicts correct the erro∣neous 〈◊〉〈◊〉 concerning God, as it was fit he should, and as it would have become a steady and resolute Pope to have done. Some write, though without good authority, that Arithpertus King of the Lombards from a religious Principle, gave the Cottian Alpes and all the Tract that reaches from Piedmont to the Coast of Genoa to the Church of Rome. Others say, that this Donation was only confirmed by A∣rithpertus. But since there is no certainty concerning the Donation it self, and the Lawyers call it the Chaff, because it yields no Corn, and it appears in no respect to have been the Gift of Constantine, how can there be any evidence of its Confirmation? I return to Pope John, a Person who spake and lived very well, and who built an Oratory in the Church of S. Peter in honour to the Blessed Virgin, upon the Walls of which on each hand were wrought in Mosaick Work the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of several of the holy Fathers. Moreover, he repaired the Church of S. Eugenia, which had long before been decayed through Age. He adorn'd also the Coemeteries of the Martyrs Marcellinus and Marcus, and Pope Damasus. Finally, he beautified divers other Churches with the Pictures and Statues of the Saints, wherein the Painters and Statua∣ries had so well imitated the Gravity and Majesty of his own aspect, that whosoever looked upon them thought they saw the Pope himself. Having been in the Chair two years, seven months, seventeen days, he died, and was buried October the 18th. in the Church of S. Peter before the Altar of the Blessed Virgin which himself had built. The See was then vacant three months.

SISINNIUS.

SISINNIUS, or (as others call him) Sozimus, a Syrian, his Fathers name John, lived in the Pontificate no more than twenty days in which time 'tis said the body of S. Benedict was by stealth conveyed away from Mount Cassino, by reason of the solitude of the place, and carried into France. Now Sisinnius, though he were so afflicted with the Gout both in his Hands and Feet, that he could neither walk nor feed himself, yet he took such 〈◊〉〈◊〉 both of the City and Church of Rome, as to leave nothing undone which became a good Pope. He had already prepared all materials for the raising the decayed Walls of the City, and the repairing and beauti∣fying of the old ruined Churches; but he died suddenly, and was bu∣ried in S. Peter's February the 6th. The See was then vacant one month, eighteen days.

CONSTANTINE I.

CONSTANTINE, another 〈◊〉〈◊〉, his Father's name likewise John, was created Pope at the time when there happened to be a Famine at Rome which lasted three years; in which exigence he was so charitable to all, but especially the poorer sort, that men thought him to have been sent down from Heaven for their relief. In the mean time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out of the hatred he bore to the name of Pontus, sends Mauritius one of the Patrician Order, and Helias one of his Guards, with a Fleet to the Chersonese where he had been in Exile, with Commission to put all above the age of fourteen to the Sword; which, to glut the Emperours Rage, they accordingly put in execution. And that we may not think that Cruelty was his only Vice, he became guilty of so great Ingratitude as in an hostile manner to surprize King Trebellius, by the Aid of whose Forces he had been restored to the Empire, at a time when he was engaged in a War with the Thracians; But Trebellius not only bore the Choque, but also forced him to retreat with Loss. There was no alteration from his former course of Life wrought in him by the Cala∣mities he had underwent, in any thing save in this, that he now vene∣rated and defended the Apostolick See contrary to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had for∣merly used to do. For when Felix, having been consecrated Arch-Bi∣shop of Ravenna by the Pope, was required according to custom to send in writing his ackowledgment of the Papal Authority and Money to Rome, which he stifly refused to do; Justinian, upon knowledg of the matter, presently sends order to Theodorus, a Patrician, his Admi∣ral, with the first opportunity to leave Sicily and go against the Ra∣vennates. He obeying the Emperours Order, and having in 〈◊〉〈◊〉

gain'd a Victory over them, exercises the greatest cruelty towards them, and sends Felix bound in Chains to Constantinople; whom Justinian af∣terwards banish'd into Pontus, having first deprived him of his sight, after this Manner; He caused him to fix his Eyes long upon a red∣hot Concave-vessel of Brass, out of which there issued a firey Py∣ramid, which easiy overcame his Eyes and blinded him. Yet Constan∣tine did by no means approve of this Cruelty, being more desirous of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, than his Punishment.

While the Pope and Emperour were thus employed, Aisprandus en∣deavouring with the Aid of the Bavarians to recover the Kingdom of his Ancestours, comes into Italy, and engaging in a pitch'd Battel with Arithpertus, vanquishes him, and gains the Kingdom of the Lombards; Arithpertus himself by a too fearful and hasty flight being drown'd in a swift River. But Aisprandus not long after dying, did with gene∣ral approbation leave his Son Luithprandus Successour to his King∣dom.

Justinian being now very desirous to see Pope Constantine, having sent Ships to convey him safely, makes it his request that he would come to him. Constantine yielding thereunto, and approaching now near to Constant inople. Tiberius, Justinian's Son, with a Princely Retinue, and Cyrus the Patriarch with all the Clergy, in honour to him go out eight miles to meet him; and being dress'd in his Pontificalibus, they conduct him with solemn Pomp into the City, and lead him into the Palace. Going from thence to Nicomedia, whither also the Emperour was to come from Nice, he was received there after the same manner as at Constantinople. Justinian entring the City soon after, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 only embraced the Pope, but also kiss'd his Feet in sign of honour. Having on the days following discoursed of several Affairs between themselves, and Justinian having confirmed the Popes Decrees, Constantine at his taking leave advises him not to proceed too severely against Philippi∣cus, then an Exile in Pontus, apprehending some mischief might arise thereupon, because he understood that Philippicus was a Person of great Fortitude and Prudence. But Justinian not following the Popes good Counsel, sends a Fleet to Pontus with design to dispatch Philippicus; who upon a Revolt of the Soldiers to him, with the same Fleet makes towards Constantinople, and at twelve miles distance from the City en∣gaging with Justinian and Tiberius, got the Victory and slew them, and with universal Acclamation was declared Emperour. This Phi∣lippicus* 1.179 afterwards banishing Cyrus the Patriarch into Pontus, for his consenting in belief with the Pope, puts one John a Monk and an Arch∣Heretick into his place; whose Opinions he forthwith sent in writing to Rome, requiring all to subscribe their Assent to them. But Constan∣tine holding a Synod, not only condemned the Opinions of Philippicus and John the Monk, but also appointed the Images of those holy Fa∣thers, who had been present at the Councils universally approved of, to be painted in the Portico of S. Peter's, upon Intelligence that in a way of Contempt they had been rub'd off from the Walls of S. Sophia, by Philippicus his Order. Moreover, the same Pope ordained, That the name of no Heretical Emperour should be inserted in any Publick or Private Writings, or impress'd upon Brass or Silver or Lead. But Anasta∣sius,* 1.180 surnamed Arthemius, by force of Arms deposes Philippicus, in the first

year and sixth month of his Empire, and seizing him, puts out his Eyes. This 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sends Letters to Pope Constantine, in which he promises to be a zealous Defendour of the Catholick Faith, and the sixth Sy∣nod.* 1.181 But he also, within three years, being flighted by the Soldiers was deposed, and compelled by Theodosius, who succeeded him, to take Holy Orders, that so he might never afterwards pretend or aspire to the Empire. Theodosius, a Catholick Emperour, forthwith gave order for the restoring of the Images of the Holy Fathers, which, as we have said, had been destroyed by Philippicus. And Felix, who had been banished into Pontus, quitting his former Obstinacy, returned home and was restored to his See, of which he had been deprived. At this time also it was declared, that the Bishop of Pavia was subject only to the See of Rome, and not to the Arch-Bishop of Milain; concerning which matter there had been a great and long Controversie between the two Prelates. Some write that two Kings of the Saxons, under the Obligation of a religious Vow, came now to Rome, and that they there died, as I think, of the Pestilence. Not long after them died Constantine, having been in the Chair seven years, twenty days, and was buried in S. Peter's, February the 11th. The See was then vacant one month, eleven days.

GREGORY II.

GREGORY the Second, a Roman, Son of Marcellus, en∣tring into Holy Orders in the time of Sergius, was upon the Reputation of his great Fidelity and Integrity made the Popes Almoner and Library-keeper. Being afterwards or∣dained Deacon, he attended Pope Constantine to Constanti∣nople, where there being a warm Debate concerning some Articles of Religion, he disputed so smartly, that all men admired his Learning, Wit, and Eloquence, by which he easily confuted those who held any erroneous Opinions. Soon after his being created Pope, he re-built the Walls of the City which in several places were fallen down through age; and repaired the decayed Churches of S. Peter, and S. Laurence without the Walls, laying in the Water anew, by mending the battered and disjoyned Pipes which formerly had conveyed it into them. He repaired also, and enriched with Presents of Gold and Silver divers other Churches, which it would be tedious to enumerate. Yet I will not pass by in Silence his reviving a Monastery in the Via Ostiensis not far from S. Paul's, whose Ruines are yet to be seen, and also that of S. Andrew, setling Monks therein who were to be continually employed in the exercise of Devotion. Moreover, it was the peculiar Commendati∣on of this Pope, that through his means the Germans were converted to Christianity; he having sent among them Boniface a Monk, to bring them out of darkness by setting up the light of the Truth. Of these Germans a great number came to Rome, and were baptized with the Popes own Hands. He also by his Authority compelled Luithprandus,

who at first resused it, to confirm the Donation of Arithpertus, of which we have spoken before; which Luithprandus did at the beginning of his Reign both possess himself of a great part of Boiaria, and also besiege and take 〈◊〉〈◊〉. In the time of this Pope there was such an Inundation of the River Tiber, which flowed into the City through the Porta del popolo, that in the Via Lata the Water was almost a mans height, and from Ponte Molle to the Steps of S. Peter's men rowed about in large Boats. This Inundation continued seven days to the great Loss and Damage of the Citizens, it having born down Houses, and rooted up Trees, Corn, Plants and Herbs. The Moon also being now in an Ecclipse, appeared of a bloody colour till midnight; and there was seen a Comet, with its Tail extending towards the North, betokening some future Calamity. Whereupon Gregory, that he might avert the displeasure of Almighty God from the Christians, ordered frequent Litanies in Procession through the whole City. While the Pope was thus employed at Rome, there came Advice, that the Lom∣bards under the Duke of Beneventum had surpriz'd the Fort of Cuma; at which Gregory being very much disturbed, sends to admonish them to restore this Fort which contrary to the Articles of Peace they had unjustly possess'd themselves of, or otherwise they would soon feel the Indignation of Almighty God upon them. But after several Messages of the like nature they not quitting it, he encourages the Neapolitans, upon the promise of a sum of Money, and the sending some Roman Sol∣diers for their assistance, to recover it by Force. Theodunus the Arch∣Deacon having the management of this Affair, the Neapolitans set briskly to the Work, and re-take the Fort, killing three hundred of those who were in Garrison therein, and taking five hundred Priso∣ners, whom they carried to Naples, where the Soldiers forthwith re∣ceived the reward which had been promised them. Gregory now en∣joying Peace, applyed himself to Church-work. For he repaired the Church of S. Cross in Jerusalem, which had long lain neglected, and new∣arch'd and roof'd the Porches on every side of it; he built from the foundations the Oratory of S. Susanna on Mount Coelius; and after the Death of his Mother dedicated his Fathers House to the honour of S. Agatha, building it into a Monastery, which he plentifully endowed for the maintenance of the Monks therein.

The Saracens now encouraged by the Discord they observed among the Christians, setting sail from Septa in Afrique, and arriving in Spain, ravage all the Countrey, except Granada which was inhabited by those of their own Nation already, and at length with their Wives and Chil∣dren pass as far as Aquitain, designing to possess themselves of that Pro∣vince also. Charles Martell the Son of Pipin was at this time famous* 1.182 throughout the World. This Pipin, after the Death of Grimoald, had two other Sons left, Caroloman and Charles Martell; which Charles, this Brother also dying, gain'd afterwards to himself the Kingdom of France, though not without great opposition, especially of Eudo Duke of Aqui∣tain and Chilperic whom some of the French upon the Death of Theo∣doric had set up to be their King. But Martell having passed the River Seine, and advanced to Orleans, at the first Attaque puts them to flight, and becomes sole Possessour of the Kingdom of France. After this he passed the Rhine, and conquered the Saxons, Alemans, Sueves and Boi∣arians.

But having Intelligence that the Saracens had been invited by Eudo into France, by great Marches he comes forth against them, and obliging them to fight, gains a mighty Victory not far from Tours. Historians write that in this Battel there were slain of the Saracens three hundred and sixty thousand, but of the French only one thou∣sand one hundred and fifty, and 'tis said, that Eudo hereupon came over to Martel's side. The Saracens being by this means through Martel's Valour diverted from any farther Attempts upon the Spaniards and French, turn all the Rage and Indignation which upon so great an Over∣throw had been raised in them, upon the Constantinopolitans, whose City they besieged by Sea and Land the space of three years. But suffer∣ing all the extremities of War, being pinched with Hunger and Cold, and a Pestilence moreover raging among them, they raised the Siege, and return'd home. 'Tis said, that of this Plague there died in Constan∣tinople three hundred thousand. As for the Affairs of Italy, the Lom∣bards now under the Conduct of Luithprandus after a long Siege took and sack'd Ravenna, carrying away from thence to Pavia all things of considerable value, and amongst the rest, as I believe, the famous Statue on Horseback in Brass. Thus according to the usual Vicissitude of hu∣mane Affairs, it so fell out, that what Theodoric and other Kings of the Goths, and after them the Exarchs, had taken from Rome and carried to Ravenna, was by others afterwards scattered about and dispersed into several places. In the mean time there was at Rome a Plot laid by some seditious people against the Pope; the Heads of the Conspiracy being Basilius, Jordanus a Notary, John a Sub-deacon surnamed Lurion and Marinus an Officer of the Guards, who at this time was Governour of Rome under the Emperour. But upon the Emperour's recalling Marinus, the business was deferred to another time. The Conspiratours tampe∣red also with Paul the Exarch, being willing in a matter of so great importance to have him to head them. The whole Design being at length discovered by the people of Rome, they appear in Arms, kill John Lurion, and dissipate the other Conspiratours. Basilius was con∣fined to a Monastery, where he died. The forementioned Paul being highly enraged at the Pope for prohibiting his levying new Taxes, did by the Emperour's Order seek all ways, both secret and open, of taking away the good mans life; but the Romans and Lombards taking up Arms defended him. The Emperour Leo hereupon publishes an Edict, commanding all those who were Subjects of the Roman Empire to rase out and take away all the Pictures and Images of Saints, Martyrs and Angels out of their Churches; with design, as he ptofessed, thereby to prevent Idolatry; and declaring, that whosoever refused so to do should be accounted a publick Enemy. But Gregory not only not obeyed this Order, but also encouraged all Catholicks to stand up stoutly against it. Whereupon the people of Italy were so animated, that they were near chusing another Emperour, had not Gregory by his authority in∣terposed to prevent it. Notwithstanding which there arose such a Dis∣sention at Ravenna, some pleading for Obedience to the Emperour, others to the Pope, that Paul the Exarch, together with his Son, was slam in the Tumult. To succeed in whose place the Emperour sends Eutychius an Eunuch, who by Gifts and Promises was to endeavour to break the Friendship and Alliance between the Lombards and the Pope.

But that Attempt having been often made in vain, was drop'd for a time; and the Pope being freed of this trouble, began to visit the Hospitals and Churches, and to repair those of them which through age or neg∣lect had fallen to decay. Moreover, he made a Peace between the King of the Lombards and the Dukes of Spoleto and Beneventum, which that King had intended to crush; but having marched in a peaceable manner as far as Rome to confer with the Pope about the matter, Gre∣gory by his Christian Counsel so mollified his mind, that laying aside all thoughts of War, he offered up his Sword, and other Arms, in the Church of S. Peter. The Emperour Leo now in another wild humour, commanded all the Images, either of Wood, Brass or Marble to be brought to him, which he forthwith caused to be burnt; and seiz'd upon and put to Death those who refused to bring them. Germanus the Patriarch, who vigorously opposed it, he banished, and put into his place Anastasius an Heretick; whom Gregory afterwards in a Sy∣nod deprived, and interdicted the Exercise of sacred Offices, if he re∣fused to return to the Catholick Faith. Furthermore, as became a pious Prelate, he oftentimes by Letters admonished the Emperour to quit the erroneous Opinions into which some ill men had se∣duced him, and at length to embrace the Truth, and to cease the de∣stroying of the Images of the Saints, by whose Example and Me∣mory men might be excited to the Imitation of their Virtues. Some write that in this Popes time Boniface came out of Britain to Rome, and for his sanctity was of a Monk made a Bishop, and sent into Ger∣many, that by his Preaching and Example he might confirm that People in the Faith; which he performed so well, that he was deservedly made Bishop of Mentz; but passing thence into Africa, he was for his preaching the Word of God put to Death by the Enemies of Chri∣stianity. 'Tis said also, that S. Aegidius, a Grecian, was now famous for the holy Life he led, and the miracles he wrought; and that Pe∣tronax, a Citizen of Brescia, did by Vow repair at his own Charge the Monastery of S. Benedict, which was almost quite left desolate. As for Gregory, who by his good Example excited all men to the pra∣ctice of Piety and Virtue, having been in the Chair sixteen years, nine months, eleven days, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's, Fe∣bruary the 11th. By his Death the See was vacant thirty five days. He is said to have consecrated during his Pontificate one hundred for∣ty eight Bishops.

GREGORY III.

GREGORT the third, a Syrian, his Fathers name John, was unammously elected Pope in the Year seven hundred fifty nine. He was a Person of singular Learning, very well skill'd in the Greek and Latin Tongues, and of such an Insight into the Sense of Holy Writ, that no man was more ready at the expound∣ing of the abstruse and difficult places in it. Nor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he work upon the People merely by his Preaching and Eloquence, but in all respects he gave them such a prevailing Example, that it is difficult to deter∣mine whether he spake or lived better. He was so valiant a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Catholick Faith, that he thereby contracted the displeasure and hatred of the greatest Princes; but by no Force, or Power, or Menace was removed one step from his Resolution. Finally, his good∣will towards all men was such, that he cherished and relieved the Poor, redeemed Captives, releas'd insolvent Debtours, and asserted the Cause of Widows and Orphans against potent Oppressours in such a manner, that he deserved the Name of a common Father and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Soon after his entrance upon the Pontificate, with the Consent of the Clergy of Rome he excommunicated and deposed the Emperour Leo for his having rased the Pictures of the Saints out of the Churches and destroyed their Images, and also for not being Orthodox in O∣pinion concerning the Consubstantiality of the Son with the Father. In the mean time Luithprandus King of the Lombards, from an ambi∣tious desire of enlarging his Dominions, having possess'd himself of all the Towns round about, lays Siege to Rome it self; whereupon Gre∣gory forthwith dispatches Messengers by Sea, it not being safe for them to pass by Land, to Charles Prince of the French, to pray him that he would speedily aid the distressed City and Church of Rome. Indeed formerly the Popes when they were in any great Danger from abroad, had been wont to seek for succour from the Emperour of Constanti∣nople; but Gregory now declined it, both for the Causes we have just before mentioned, and also especially because Leo was now hard put to it to defend Constantinople it self against the Saracens, and therefore little able to protect others. By which means it came to pass, that the Constantinopolitan Emperours being for the time to come unap∣plied to, the Protection of the Church was from henceforward put in∣to other hands. Upon Gregorie's Request Charles undertaking the Church's Patronage, desires Luithprandus as his Friend, and particular∣ly upon the account of his Son Pipin his near Allie, to quit his En∣terprize, and not give the Pope any disturbance; whereupon Luith∣prandus raises the Siege. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Italy being thus composed, Charles turns his Army with success against the Burgundians; crushes the Idolatrous Prison's; takes Lions, Arles, and Marseilles from the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who thereupon invite to their Aid Athimus the King of the Saracens. Who passing the Rhone takes Avignon by Storm, intending to make use of the convenience of that place for a Citadel. But Charles

upon Intelligence hereof, hastens thither with his Army, and re-takes Avignon, putting to the Sword all the Saracens who were in Garrison in it. From thence he marched to Narbonne, whither he understood that Athimus had fled. But having advice that Amoreus, another Sa∣racen King of Spain was coming with a great Army to the Aid of Athi∣mus, he quitted the Siege of Narbonne, and march'd to the Valley of Corbiere, not far off, wherein there was a fair Plain very commodious to joyn Battel in. Amoreus thinking that Charles having been routed had fled thither, enters the Valley, and prepares to engage; which Charles did not decline, though the number of the Adversaries Army was incredibly great. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 having continued for some time very warm, and Amoreus himself having been slain at the beginning of the Engagement, at length the Saracens were forced to betake them∣selves to slight, and a great part of them were kill'd in the Fens and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thereabouts. Athimus, as good luck would have it, making his Escape by Sea towards the farther part of Spain, in Rage and De∣spair, lay'd 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Fire and Sword all the Islands which he arrived at in his passage. Much about this time the Body of S. Augustine, which two hundred and fifty years before, when the Vandals wasted A∣frica, had been carried away from Hippo into Sardinia, was by the care of Luithprandus translated thence to Pavia, and reposited in a very honourable place of Interrment. The Saracens being now pretty well tamed, kept themselves within the Pyrenean Hills; upon which all the Visigoths who possessed the hither parts of Spain and part of France, being not able to defend themselves, were subdued by Charles; and so that People who had domineer'd for almost three hundred years were utterly extinguished, except some few who were saved by the People of Barcelona. Some write that Charles was in this War assisted by Luithprandus with Men, who after the Victory returned home laden with Booty. In the mean while Pope Gregory not neglecting to im∣prove the time of Peace he now enjoyed, applyed himself to Church∣work. The Altar of S. Peter's he made more stately by erecting a Row of six Pillars of Onyx on each hand of it, where as many of the same magnitude and figure had formerly stood, but were now decayed through 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Upon these Pillars were Architraves gilt with Silver; on which he set up the Images of our Saviour and the Apostles at equal distances. He built also an Oratory in the same Church, in which he reposited some of the Reliques of almost all the Saints, and ordered Mass to be therein daily performed, in the Canon of which he added these words, which were engraven upon the Marble round the Oratory, Quorum Solennitas in conspectu tuoe Majeslatis celebratur, Domine Deus noster, toto in Orbe terrarum. &c. i. e. Whose Anniversaries are celebrated in the sight of thy Majesty, O Lord our God, throughout all the World, &c. which Clause is not in the general Canon now used. Moreover, he gave to this Church several Vessels of Silver; and caused to be made at his own Charge the Image of the Blessed Virgin with our Saviour in her Arms, of Gold, which he placed in the Church of S. Mary ad Proesepe. He also repaired the Roof of the Church of S. Chry∣sogonus, appointing Monks for the daily performance of divine Service therein, and setling an Estate for their Maintenance. Several Monaste∣ries he either repaired, or built from the ground, to the Recluses where∣of

he prescribed Rules of strict and holy living. He re-built also the ruined Walls of the City of Rome, and in like manner those of the al∣most desolate Civita Vecchia. Furthermore, he ordained the Celebra∣tion of Mass in the Church of S Peter almost without Intermission, both by the Priests in Weekly Attendance, and by the Monks; upon which account we may observe the Cells of the Monks and the Houses of the Secular Priests to be in several places contiguous, each of them striving to out do the other in diligence at their Devotion, Our Gre∣gory having well discharged his Duty towards God and Men, died in the tenth year, eighth Month and twenty fourth day of his Pontifi∣cate, and was with general lamentation buried in S. Peter's November the 28th. The See was then vacant only eight days.

ZACHARIAS I.

ZACHARIAS, a Grecian, the Son of Polychronius, is rec∣koned in the number of the best Popes. For he was a Person of a very mild Disposition, and wonderfully sweet Conversation; every way deserving; a Lover of the Clergy and People of Rome; slow to Anger, but very forward to exercise Mercy and Cle∣mency; rendring to no man evil for evil, but in Imitation of our Sa∣viour overcoming evil with good, and that to such a degree, that after his arriving to the Papal Dignity he preferred and enriched those who had envied and hated him. At the beginning of his Pontificate find∣ing Italy enflamed in War, in order to procure a Peace he forthwith sends Legates to Luithprandus King of the Lombards, who now made War upon Transamundus Duke of Spoleto. But these Legates not ef∣fecting the Design, he himself goes in person, accompanied with the Roman Clergy, into Sabina; and 'tis said that in sign of honour the King met him eight miles from Narni, and alighting off his Horse, ac∣companied him on Foot into the City. The day following, while they were at Mass, the Pope made publickly an Elegant Oration, wherein he set forth the Duty of a Christian King both in the time of Peace and War; and 'tis reported that the King was so wrought upon by it, that he presently put the sole Power of accommodating matters into the Pope's hands. The King had already deposed Transamund, and invested Agrandus, his Nephew, in the Dukedom. Yet at the Pope's Intercession Transamund was received into favour; but he quitting all Pretensions to the Dukedom, entred into holy Orders. All the Towns which had been taken in Sabina were restored; as also Narni and Anco∣na, and whatever places the Lombards had for thirty years past made themselves Masters of in Tuscany. Moreover, all who had been made Prisoners during the War were set at Liberty. Luithprandus, having been treated by the Pope with all imaginable expressions of Indear∣ment and Respect, marched thence peaceably with his Army, and not long after died, in the thirty second year of his Reign. He was a person who deserved that Kingdom both for his extraordinary Wisdom

and Prudence, and also for his Valour and warlike Temper, in which no man excell'd him; so eminent also for Justice and Clemency, that it is hard to judg whether of these two Vertues were more conspicuous in him. His Nephew, Aldeprandus, succeeded him in the Kingdom, which having held only six months he also died; and Duke Rachis, a Prince whose Piety and Integrity deserve the highest praise, was unanimously chosen in his stead. By him also a League was renewed with the Pope, to whose Legates the devout and religious King graciously granted whatever they desired. But having reigned four years, he quitted his Government, and betook himself to a Monastick Life, encouraging his Wife and his Sons to do the like. His Brother Aistulphus succeeded him, whose crafty and fierce Temper threatned disturbance to all Italy, but especially to the Pope and the Romans, whom he designed by Force to bring under his Jurisdiction. In the mean time Charles Martel, be∣ing seiz'd with a violent sickness, at the persuasion of his Friends divi∣ded his Acquests between his two Sons; of whom Caroloman, the elder, had Austrasia and Suevia, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Burgundy and part of France. And so that valiant and wise man died at Cressey sur Serre, in the thirty fifth year of his Office of Mayre of the Palace, and was buried at Paris in the Church of S. Dennis. He had had by a former Wife another Son named Grypho, whose rapacious Temper suited with his Name; he pre∣vailed with the warlike Saxons to assist him in making War upon his Brethren. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Pipin entring Saxony with an Army, force their Prince Theodoric to submission. After this Expedition Caroloman comes to Rome, and there renouncing the Pomp and Glory of Empire, he goes to Mount Cassino, and takes the habit of a Monk of S. Bene∣dict. But Pipin being of an aspiring Mind, sends Ambassadours to the Pope, desiring that by his Authority he would confirm to him the Kingdom of France. The Pope upon the score of former good Services performed by his Family, and the ancient Friendship which had been between them and the Popes his Predecessours, yields to his Request, and accordingly confirms him, An. Dom. 753. and so from Mayre of the Palace, who was the first Officer of the Kingdom, Pipin was advanc'd to the Kingdom of France it self, from whom the succeeding Kings de∣rive their Original. 'Tis reported that Caroloman, who, as we have said, had taken the habit of a Monk, came now, with others of the same Order, from Mount Cassino to Pope Zachary, desiring that by his mediation they might gain leave to remove the Body of S. Benedict, which had by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 been carried away to the Abbey of Fleury in the Kingdom of France. The Pope granted their Desire, and there∣upon sent a Message to King Pipin, who upon Information in the mat∣ter, freely gave way to it. Zachary now enjoying Peace on every side, set himself to the repairing of several decayed Churches. The Tower and Portico before the Lateran Church he built from the ground, made the Windows and Gates of Brass, and upon the Frontispiece of the Portico caused a Map of the World to be delineated. He renewed the defaced Images of the Saints; enlarged and beautified the Lateran Palace; repaired the Palatine Library, and assigned to every Church a Revenue for the maintenance of Oyl for their Lamps. He gave to S. Pe∣ter's an Altar-Cloth embroidered with Gold and set with Jewels, having the Essigies of our Blessed Saviour wrought upon it. He built the

Church of S. George in Velabro, and reposited the head of that Saint therein; as also the Church of S. Coecilia, in the Via Tiburtina, six miles from the City, and in it an Oratory in honour to S. Cyrus the Abbat; setling a maintenance for the Priests that ministred in it. He re-built the Roof of the Church of S. Eusebius, which happened in his time to tumble down. He also gave order that his Servants should daily di∣stribute and give out at the Lateran Palace Alms to the Poor of all sorts. Moreover, he forbad the Venetians, upon pain of Excommunica∣tion, the selling of Christian Slaves to Saracens and Heathens, which those Merchants were before wont to do. Finally, that we may not think that his Advancement to so great a Dignity made him neglect his Studies, he translated out of Latin into Greek four Books of Gregory in Dialogue; that so the Grecians might be instructed in the Rules of good living. But having with such Integrity to the Satisfaction of all men governed the Church ten years, three months, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's, March the 15th. By his Death the See was vacant twelve days.

STEPHEN II.

STEPHEN the Second, a Roman, Son of Constantine, from one Degree in the Church to another, ascended at length to the Papal Dignity; although upon the Death of Zachary the People presently made Choice of another Stephen a Priest; who on the third day of his Pontificate awaking out of Sleep, and be∣ginning to settle his domestick affairs, was suddenly seiz'd with a fit of an Apoplexy, of which he died. After whom our Stephen the Se∣cond, (for we reckon not his short-liv'd Predecessour of that name in the List) was unanimously elected by the Clergy and People in the Church of S. Mary ad Proesepe, and being highly beloved by all was carried upon mens shoulders to S. Saviour's, called also the Constanti∣nian Church, and from thence into the Lateran Palace. He was a Per∣son of extraordinary Piety and Prudence, a Lover of the Clergy, a Re∣pairer of Churches, a diligent Preacher and Writer of the Doctrine of Christianity, a Father of the Poor, a zealous Defender of Orphans and Widows, and in going through with any thing he undertook, hardy and resolute, but not obstinate. For Aistulphus now making Inrodes upon the Borders of the Romans, he at first endeavoured by Persuasions and Presents to bring him off. But that covetous Prince requiring the payment of a Tribute of so much a head yearly from the People, the Pope thereupon was forced to seek for help from abroad, and accord∣ingly he sent Nuntio's to Constantine the Emperour of Constantinople, to desire Aid of him against Aistulphus, who gave disturbance to all Italy, and had already taken Ravenna the Seat of the Exarchate, and a great part of Romagna. But finding no hope of succours from him, he re∣solves to go to Pipin of France; and therefore sends to that King to desire that he would prevail with Aistulphus to permit him safe passage through his Countrey; which Aistulphus at Pipin's Request consented

to. Stephen now reaching the Borders of the Kingdom of France, Pipin's Son Charles, who from his mighty Atchievements was afterwards surnamed the Great, in token of honour goes forth an hundred miles to meet him. Pipin himself met him three miles from the City, & alighting off his Horse kiss'd his feet and led the Horse upon which he rode by the Bridle till he had conducted him into the City, and brought him to his Apartment. Ai∣stulphus now fearing that the Pope was practising against him, sends Caro∣loman a Monk to his Brother Pipin, to persuade him not to make War upon the Lombards in Stephen's Quarrel; which Pipin not only refused to grant, but also confined the Monk to a Monastery in Vienne, where not long after he died of Grief. But it not being a fit season of the year to undertake an Expedition, and Pipin allowing much to the an∣cient Friendship there had been between them, he sends Ambassadours to Aistulphus, to advise him to restore the Places he had taken, or other∣wise to let him know that he should be obliged in a short time to re∣cover them by force of Arms. Aistulphus hearkned not to this good Counsel; whereupon Pipin, the Spring now approaching, advances with an Army against the Lombards; and having sent before some light-har∣nessed Soldiers to force Aistulphus's Guards to quit the Passes of the Alps, he marches down into the Plain of the State of Milain, and ha∣ving without any opposition sacked and harassed all places he came to, at length he invests Pavia the Seat-Royal of the Kings of Lombardy, which Aistulphus and those that were in Garrison with him defended. But Stephen moved with Compassion at the numerous Calamities which this obstinate man had brought upon himself and his People, volunta∣rily offers Aistulphus a Peace, upon condition he would restore what he had taken; which Aistulphus at length consented to, and promised upon Oath more than was demanded. Pipin reckoning that the Pope had now satisfaction, raises the Siege, and returns into France, leaving Varrenus the Arbitratour of this Peace between them. Stephen and Varrenus go to Rome, not doubting but that Aistulphus would in a little time perform his promise; instead of which he presently mustering up from all parts what Forces he could, with a tumultuary Rout rather than a just Army, follows them, and besieges Rome, laying waste and burning the Suburbs and Places adjacent, insomuch that the People of Rome suffered more Damage by the Outrages he then committed, than they had received in three hundred forty four years before from the declining of the Empire. Hereupon Pipin being again sued to by the Pope to aid the distressed City of Rome against the Perfidiousness and Cruelty of Aistulphus, he with all possible expedition raises an Army for that purpose. In the mean time the Turks willing to mend their Quarters, over-run and conquer the Alanes first, then the Colchians and Armenians, after them the People of the Lesser Asia, and lastly the Persians and Saracens, An. Dom. 755. Some Writers tell us, that these were of the Race of those Scythians whom Alexander the Great kept within the Hyperborean Mountains with Iron-Bars, meaning by that Metaphor, that he had shut up that wild Nation there as into a Prison. But after much mischief done and received on both sides, a Peace be∣ing concluded between the Saracens and Turks, it was agreed that the Turks which dwelt in Persia should be called Saracens; and by this means the Saracens did more patiently suffer the Turks to bear sway

in Asia, especially apprehending moreover that they might soon be brought to embrace the Mahumetan Religion. But we return to Pipin, who coming again with his Army into Italy, was met by Gregory principal Secretary to the Emperour Constantine the fourth; who desired him in his Master's name, that is he should prove victorious over the Lom∣bards, he would not give the Exarchate of Ravenna to the Pope or the Romans, it belonging of right to the Emperour. To which Pipin answered, that he came into Italy to do the Pope and People a kind∣ness, and that he should consult their advantage to the utmost of his Power. After this he marched to Pavia, and reduced Aistulphus to such extremity, that he was forced to accept of the former Conditions of Peace. Hereby the Exarchate was restored to the Romans, together with all the Tract contained between the Po and Apennine, from Pia∣centino to the Gulf of Venice, and whateyer lies between the River Isa∣ra, the Apennine and the Adriatick, with all that Aistulphus had taken in Tuscany and Sabina. Pipin stayed at the Foot of the Alps till Con∣ditions should be performed, having left Holcadus an Abbat with part of his Army to oblige Aistulphus to perform what he had promis'd, and moved no farther till he understood that Aistulphus had died of an Apoplexy while he was hunting, before the surrendry was fully made. Upon his Death, Desiderius, Duke of Tuscany, forthwith raises an Army of Lombards, with design to possess himself of the Kingdom. The same also did Rachis, Aistulphus's Brother, who had before, as we have al∣ready said, taken the habit of a Monk; and indeed the Lombards ge∣nerally, except those of Tuscany, were on his side. But Desiderius by making large Promises to the Pope and the Romans, wrought them into a favour of his Pretensions; and accordingly they with all speed sent Ambassadours, and among them Holcadus the Abbat to Rachis to re∣quire him to lay down his Arms, and submit to Desiderius. And so Faenza and Ferrara were at last delivered to the Pope, and the name of the Exarchate, which had continued from the time of Narses to the taking of Ravenna by Aistulphus an hundred and seventy years, was ex∣tinguished. Things being now peaceably setled, and the Jurisdiction of the Church greatly encreased, Stephen holding a Synod, takes an ac∣count of his several Flocks and their Pastors; gently chastises those who had offended; directs such as had gone astray; teaches and in∣structs the ignorant; and finally sets before them the Duty of a Bishop, of a Presbyter, and of all Orders in the Clergy. Moreover, he ap∣pointed Litanies for the appeasing of the Divine Anger; the Procession on the first Saturday to be to S. Marie's ad Proesepe, on the second to S. Peter's in the Vatican, on the third to S. Paul's in the Via Ostiensis. He also repaired several Churches which had been damaged by Aistul∣phus while he layed Siege to the City; yet he did not recover the Re∣liques of the Saints which that King had carried with him to Pavia, and there reposited not dishonourably in divers Churches. The good man having by these means proved serviceable to God, his Countrey, and the Church, died in the fifth year and first month of his Pontificate, and was buried April the 26th, with general lamentation as for the loss of a Common Father. The See was then vacant thirty two days.

PAUL I.

PAUL, a Roman, son of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Brother of Stephen the se∣cond, became well skill'd and practiced in all things belong∣ing to a Churchman by his having been educated in the La∣teran Palace under Pope Gregory the second, and Pope Za∣chay, by which latter he was, together with his Brother, ordained Deacon; and when upon the Vacancy of the Popedom by the Death of Stephen, some persons proposed Theophylact the Arch-Deacon for his Successour, yet others stood for Paul, as one who both for the Integri∣ty of his Life, and great Learning, deserved to succeed his Brother in that Dignity. After a long Dispute therefore Theophylact was rejected, and Paul by general suffrage chosen, in the time of Constantine and Leo. This Paul was a person of an extraordinary meek and merciful Temper, and who in Imitation of our Saviour never returned to any man evil for evil, but on the contrary by doing good to them he overcame those ill men that had oftentimes injur'd him. He was of so kind and com∣passionate a Nature, as that he would go about by night with only two or three Attendants to the Houses of poor sick people, assisting them with his Counsel, and relieving them with his Alms. He also frequently visited the Prisons, and paying their Creditors, discharged thence multitudes of poor Debtours. The Fatherless and Widows that were over-reach'd by the tricks of Lawyers he defended by his Authority and supported by his Charity. Moreover, having assembled the Clergy and People of Rome, he did with great solemnity translate the Body of S. Petronilla S. Peter's Daughter, with her Tomb of Marble upon which was this Inscription, Petronilloe Filioe dulcissimoe, from the Via Appia into the Vatican, and placed it at the upper end of the Church dedicated to her Father. At this time the Emperour Constantine having in all places plucked down the Images, and put to death Constantine Patriarch of Constantinople for opposing him therein, and made Nicetas an Eunuch, his Abettour in the Sacriledg, Patriach in his stead, the Pope consulting by all means the Interest of Religion, sends Nuntios to Constantinople to advise the Emperour to restore and set up again the Images he had taken away, or upon his refusal so to do, to threaten him with the Censure of Excommunication. But Constantine persisting obstinately in what he had done, not only despised this good Counsel, but also granted Peace to Sabinus King of the Bulgarians, because he also made the like havock of Images with himself, though he were before engaged in a War against him. Having also associated to himself into part of the Empire his Son Leo the fourth, whom he had married to the most beau∣tiful Athenian Lady Irene, he enters into a League with the Saracens, thereby to despite and provoke the Orthodox Christians. In the mean time Pipin entirely subdues Taxillo Duke of the Bojarians, and admits of a League with the Saxons, but upon this Condition, that they should be obliged to send three hundred Horsemen to his Assistance as often as he should have occasion to make an Expedition. Against the Aqui∣tains

he maintained a tedious War, which at length he committed to the management of his young Son Charles, himself being so worn out with Age that he could not be present at it. This War being ended, Charles takes by Storm Bourbon, Clermont, and several other Towns of Auvergne. But Pipin, who as we have said was now very old, not long after dies, leaving in the Kingdom his two Sons Charles and Caroloman. Some tell us that Aistulphus King of the Lombards, who, as is above declared, had carried away the Bodies of divers Saints from Rome to Pavia, died at this time; and that he had built Chappels to those Saints, aud also a Cloister for Virgins. in which his own Daughters became Nuns. He was an extraordinary Lover of the Monks, and died in their Arms, in the sixth year and fifth month of his Reign. At the be∣ginning of his Government, he was fierce and rash, in the end mode∣rate; and a person of such Learning, that he reduc'd and form'd the E∣dicts of the Lombards into Laws. He was, as has been said, succeeded by Duke Desiderius; the Valour of the Lombards beginning now to dis∣solve and lose it self in Luxury. Our Paul, having repaired some old decayed Churches, died in S. Paul's in the Via Ostiensis, in the tenth year and first month of his Pontificate; and his Body was with very great Solemnity carried into the Vatican. The See was then vacant one year, one month.

STEPHEN III.

STEPHEN the third, a Sicilian, Son of Olibrius, entred upon the Pontificate, A. D. 768. a learned man, and in the management of Affairs, especially those belonging to the Church, very active and steddy. Coming to Rome very young, by ap∣pointment of Pope Gregory III. he took Orders and became a Monk in the Monastery of S. Chrysogonus, where he was inured to the stricter way of living, and instructed in Ecclesiastical Learning. Being after∣wards called by Pope Zachary into the Lateran Palace, and his Life and Learning generally approved of, he was constituted Parish-Priest of S. Caetilia; and for his great Integrity and readiness in Business both Zachary and his Successours, Stephen and Paul would always have him near their Persons. But upon the Death of Paul, whom our Stephen never deserted to his last Breath, Desiderius, who, as we have said, was by the Assistance of Stephen II. made King of Lombardy, being by Pipin's Death rid of all fear, encourages Toto Duke of Nepi to promote his Brother Constantine to the Pontificate by force of Arms, if he could not compass it by canvassing and bribery. He accordingly marches to Rome with an Army, and with the Assistance of some whom he had corrupted and made his Friends by Gifts and Promises, gets Constantine to be elected Pope. Indeed there were those who set up one Philip against him, but he was presently forced to quit his Pretensions, and Gregory Bishop of Praeneste compelled to initiate Constantine, who at the time of his choice was a Laick, into holy Orders, and then to consecrate

him Bishop; the hands of which Gregory are said thereupon by Miracle to have so withered that he could not reach them to his Mouth. But Constantine having persisted to exercise the Papal Function for one year, was at length in great Rage and Disdain deposed by the People of Rome, and Stephen unanimously chosen in his stead. Upon which Con∣stantine being brought into S. Saviour's Church, and the sacred Canons read, he was publickly and solemnly divested of the Pontifical Habit, and commanded to lead a private life in a Monastery. After this, Ste∣phen being consecrated by three Bishops in the Church of S. Adrian, and saluted as the true Pope by all the Clergy and People of Rome, ap∣plied himself to the censuring and suppressing of the Practices of some ill men who endeavoured to break the Unity of the Roman Church. Therefore calling a Council, he writes to Charles desiring him to send to Rome, as soon as might be, some Bishops of France, by their Learn∣ing and Integrity well qualified for the Affair. The same also he writes to the other Christian Princes; who all complying with him therein, a Council is held in the Lateran Church, where the Fathers having dis∣coursed among themselves divers things tending to the setling of the Church, they ordered Constantine to be brought before them. For the underhand-dealings of Desiderius King of the Lombards, and Paul A∣phiarta having occasioned frequent tumults among the People; Desi∣derius endeavouring all he could to alienate the Affections of the Ro∣mans from Charles to the Emperour; hereupon several were killed on both sides, and Constantine, the occasion of all the mischief, had his Eyes put out by the contrary Faction, though Stephen declared against it, and did what he could to prevent it; but there is no opposing a furious, enraged Multitude. Constantine appearing before the Council, and being accused that he had usurped the Apostolick See not being in any holy Orders, lays all the fault upon the People, and especially upon some particular Persons who forced him against his Will to take the Pontificate upon him. Then prostrating himself upon the floor, and humbly begging Pardon, the persons present moved with Compassion, ordered him to be dismissed, and put off the Debate of his whole Case to the next day, intending then more maturely to deliberate what ought to be done in the matter. But the next day Constantine returning to the Council, was quite of another mind, and remonstrated that he had Precedents of former Prelates for what he had done; that Sergius Arch∣Bishop of Ravenna, and Stephen of Naples, had been of Laicks conse∣crated Bishops. The Fathers resenting this Impudence, caused him to be cast out with Disgrace, and having nulled his Decrees, applied them∣selves to the setling of the State of Christianity. Among other things it was unanimously decreed by them, That no Laick, but such only as had pass'd through the several Degrees in the Clergy, should presume to take the Popedom, upon pain of Excommunication. It was ordained likewise, that those who had attained to the Episcopal Dignity in the time of Constantine, should renounce that Character, and fall back into the same Rank and Order which they were of before; but with this Reserve, that if their Life and Doctrine were approved by the People, it then pleased the Council, that upon their application to the Apostolick See, they might be consecrated anew. The same was judged meet con∣cerning Presbyters and Deacons; yet it was forbidden that any of them

should arrive to the greater Degrees, upon a Jealousie, as I believe, lest some Errour or Sect might thence arise, as from a Seminary of Discord and Sedition. Moreover it was decreed, that all the sacred Offices which Constantine had performed, should be deemed null, except only Baptism and Confirmation. Finally, having made void the Constanti∣nian Synod, in which the Greek Prelates had decreed that the Pictures and Statues of the Saints should be defaced and thrown out of Churches, it was ordained that those Images should be in all places 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and an Anathema pass'd upon that execrable and pernicious Synod, by which the condition of the Immortal God was rendred worse than that of Men; it being allowed us to erect the Statues of men who have de∣served well of the Publick, both for the expressing of our Gratitude, and the raising our Emulation of their brave Deeds, but forbidden to set up the Image of our Saviour, whom we ought if it were possible to have always before our Eyes, whether we consider the mighty Ob∣ligations he has laid upon Mankind, or the Dignity of his Divine Na∣ture. These things having thus pass'd according to the Popes mind, it was Decreed, that on the following day there should be a Solemn Procession, both to return thanks to God, and also in order to the averting of his Displeasure. This Procession was made from the Lateran Church to S. Peter's, with universal great Devotion, the Pope himself, with all that were present, walking Bare-foot. But in our times Piety and Devotion are grown so cold, that such Expressions of Humility are not only laid aside, but men are so proud as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to vouchsale to pray at all. Even the more eminent and dignisied persons, instead of weeping at Procession or at Mass, as these holy Fathers were wont to do, are employed in indecent and shameless laughter; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of sing∣ing Hymns, which they disdain as a servile thing, they are breaking 〈◊〉〈◊〉. and telling Stories among themselves to make each other merry. What should I say further? the more petulant and full of Buffoonry any one is, the more he is commended in such a corrupt Age. Our present Clergy does dread severe and grave Men; as being more de∣sirous to live thus licentiously, than 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be obedient to good Admoni∣tions. and subject to wholesom Restraints; by which means the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Religion does daily suffer and decline. I return to Stephen, who when the Procession was over, forthwith caused the Acts of the Coun∣cil to be first openly pronounced by his Commissary, and then pub∣lished in Writing, threatning Excommunication against any who should presume to oppose what the Holy Synod had decreed. But not long after Sergius Arch-bishop of Ravenna dying, Michael, Register of that Church, with the Assistance of King Desiderius and Maurice Duke of Rimini, whom he had corrupted with Bribes, though a meer Laick, possesses himself of the See, in opposition to Leo the Arch-deacon whom the Clergy were very desirous to chuse. Yea these Abettours of his pre∣sumed so far. as to send Ambassadours to Pope Stephen to bribe him into the Consirmation of this Michael. But Stephen not only resused their offers of Money, but also published an Excommunication against him, if he resigned not the See which he had against all Right usurped. However, he forcibly kept possession of it so long as he had any thing 〈◊〉〈◊〉, either of his own or belonging to the Church, whereof to make a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to greedy 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Upon which the Pope sending his Nun-tio's,

and King Charles his Ambassadours to Ravenna about that Affair, who declared the Popes pleasure therein, Michael was forthwith de∣posed, and Leo chosen, and confirmed by the Pope. Who being for that Reason secretly despited and mischief'd by Desiderius, begs Charles to oblige Desiderius to cease injuring him any farther. This Charles performed with great diligence, though he were not in a condition to restrain the Lombard by Force, because upon the Death of his Brother, who had reign'd jointly and amicably with him for two years, he was necessarily engaged in several Wars at once. The Aquitains, against whom his Father had begun a War, he brought into subjection, and subdued the Gascons inhabiting part of Aquitain. Then passing the Pyrenean Hills, he routed the Saracens, pursuing them to the River Betis, as far as Granada, the part of Spain wherein the Saracens are now seated. In the mean time Stephen, a most vigilant Pastor, and true successour of Peter and imitatour of Christ, having been in the Chair three years, five months, twenty seven days, died and was buried in S. Peter's. The See was then vacant nine days.

ADRIAN I.

ADRIAN the first, a Roman, Son of Theodorus one of the prime Nobility, entring upon the Pontificate, degenerated not at all from his Ancestours; being a Person who for his great∣ness of Mind, Prudence, Learning and Sanctity may be com∣pared with the best of Popes; and of whose Interest and Authority De∣siderius King of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had such Apprehensions, that he present∣ly sent Ambassadours to treat of a Peace and Alliance with him. But Adrian being acquainted with the extream Perfidiousness of that King, deferred the concluding any thing therein to another time. Now after the Death of Caroloman, his Relict Bertha, out of Envy towards the Grandeur of Hildegarda the Great Charles's Consort, by the Advice of one Adoarius flies with her Sons into Italy to King Desiderius; who re∣ceived her very kindly and honourably, both because he thought he should by this means be less in danger from the Power of France, and also reckoned that the French upon setting up Caroloman's Sons would the sooner appear in Arms against King Charles if he should give him any Disturbance. But not being able by Intreaties to prevail with A∣drian to anoint these sons of Caroloman Kings, he applies himself to forcible means, and invading the State of Ravenna, which was under the Popes Jurisdiction, he takes Faenza and Comacchio. Ravenna was at this time under the Government of its Arch-bishop and three Tribunes, who forthwith desired Aid of Adrian. The Pope at first sends to Deside∣rius, admonishing him to contain himself within his own Territories, and not to invade the Rights of the Church. But understanding after∣wards that this King had also possess'd himself of Urbin, Senigaglia, and Eugubio, he then began to threaten him with the Approach of Divine Vengeance towards him for the Violation of Peace. To which the

Lombard made no other Reply, than that Adrian ought to quit the In∣terest of the French King, and to be of His side. For it was his great Design to make a Breach between Chorles and the Pope; which when he could not obtain by Solicitations and Promises, he threatned to be∣siege Rome it self within a little time. He was already come to Spoleto, with Aldagasius Caroloman's Son; but intended to march from thence to Rome, though in a peaceable manner, and, as he pretended, out of De∣votion. But Adrian having caused the Reliques of all the Churches without the Walls to be brought into the City, sends three Bishops to Desiderius to forbid him entring the Confines of Rome upon pain of Excommunication; who thereupon fearing lest he might incurr the di∣vine Displeasure, presently returned into Lombardy. In the mean time Charles receiving from Adrian Intelligence of the injury which had been done him, sends Ambassadours to Desiderius to persuade him to re∣store what he had wrongfully taken from the Pope, or otherwise to let him know that he would soon visit him with such an Army as should oblige him to it. Desiderius notwithstanding all this refuses it; and so on both sides great Armies are prepared. But Charles having sent some part of his Forces before to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Passes of the Alpes, with wonderful Expedition leads the main Body of his Army over Monte Cenisio into Itely, where encountring Desiderius, he vanquishes and puts him to flight, and then takes and spoils his whole Countrey. Desiderius after so great an Overthrow despairing to get the better in a pitch'd Battel, retreats to Pavia, having sent his Wife and Children to Verona. And the people of Spoleto, Ricti, and all the Lombards inha∣biting those Parts, hearing his Misfortune, betake themfelves to Rome, and commit their Persons and Estates to the Popes Protection, taking an Oath of Fidelity to him, and shavfng their Heads and Beards, which among that People was the greatest sign and Token of a perfect Sub∣mission to his Power and Jurisdiction. By their Example those of Ancona, Osimo, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 did the like. Now to such of these Lom∣bards as were unwilling to return into their own Countrey, the Vati∣can Hill was granted them to inhabit and seat themselves in; whither afterwards there was from all parts a great concourse of other their Countrey-men, who chose to live there. But Charles leaving his Cou∣sin-German Bernardus at the Siege of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, marches with part of his Army to Verona, which City upon the inclination of Bertha and Caroloman's Sons to the French side, in a little time after surrendred to him; though Aldegisius, Desiderius his Son, escaping thence fled to the Emperour of Constantinople. Almost all the Cities of Lombardy beyond the Po, having in like manner yielded to Charles, he goes towards Rome, that he might there celebrate the Feast of Easter with the Pope. At his Approach to the City, he was in Complement met by three thousand Judges, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tells us, calling them Judges who were not Handycrafts-men or did not exercise any mean Trades. Adrian with his Clergy expected him at the Steps of S Peter, and at his com∣ing embraced him with all imaginable Affection, but could not restrain the humble King from kissing his Feet. The usual Salutations and Re∣spects having pass'd on both sides, they entred the Church, and being come up to the Altar, Charles and the Pope, the Romans and the French, took a mutual Oath to maintain a perpetual Friendship, and to be Ene∣mies

to the Enemies of each other. After which, Charles making his Entrance into the City, devoutly visited all the Churches, and made several Presents to them. Four days after his being there, he by Oath confirmed, and amply enlarged the Donation of his Father Pipin to Gre∣gory the third, containing, according to Anastasius, in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all that reaches from the long since demolished City Luna to the Alpes, the Isle of Corfica, and the whole Tract between Luca and Parma, together with Friuli, the Exarchate of Ravenna, and the Dukedoms of Spoleto and Benevent. These Affairs being thus setled, Charles taking his leave of Adrian returns into Lombardy, and becomes Master of Pavia on the sixth month after the investing of it. Towards Desiderius howe∣ver he was so favourable, as that though he berest him of his Kingdom, yet he spared his Life, and only confined him with his Wife and Chil∣dren to Lyons. Advancing thence again Arachis Duke of Benevent, who was Son-in-law to Desiderius, and had been an Abettour of his rash Proceedings, he soon forced him to sue for a Peace, and recei∣ved his two Sons for Hostages. After this in his Passage farther he religiously visited Mount Cassino, and confirmed all the Grants which had been made by other Princes to the Monastery of S. Benedict. And so the Affairs of all Italy being composed, and strong Guards left in the most important places of Lombardy, he returns with great Spoil and mighty Glory into his Kingdom or France, carrying with him his Brother Caroloman's Relict and Sons, whom he always treated with Respect and Honour; and also Paul a Deacon of the Church of Aqui∣leia, a Person for his Parts and Learning highly belov'd by Desiderius, to whom he gave his Freedom, and had for some time a great Esteem for him. But understanding afterwards that the man was assisting to a Design of Desiderius's his Flight, he banish'd him into the Island of Tremiti; from whence after some years making his Escape, and com∣ing to Arachis, at the Request of Adelperga Daughter to Desiderius and the Wife of Arachis, he added two Books to the History of Eutro∣pius, giving an account of what passed from the time of the Emperour Julian to that of Justinian the first. After the Death of Arachis, he betook himself to the Monastery of Cassino, where leading the remain∣der of his life very devoutly, he oftentimes wrote elegant and obliging Letters to Charles, and received again the like from that King, who had preserved him for the sake of his Learning. Thus ended the Kingdom of the Lombards, in the two hundred and fourth year after their coming into Italy, and in the year of our Lord seven hundred se∣venty six. Charles now without any delay marches against the idola∣trous Saxons, who during his absence in Italy had rebelled; uttterly subdues that People, with whom he had been engaged in War for thirty years before, and compells them to receive Christianity. Then turning his Army against the Spaniards, who were also fallen away from the Faith, he took the Cities of Pampelona and Saragoza, and per∣mitted his Souldiers to plunder them; not granting a Peace to these Spaniards, but upon condition they would entirely embrace the Chri∣stian Doctrine. After this returning into France, matters having went according to his mind, as he passed the Pyrenean Hills he fell into an Ambuscade of the Gascons, in engaging with whom though he gallantly defended himself, yet he lost Anselmus and Egibardus two brave Com∣manders.

Some tell us that in this Encounter Rolandus, Charles's Si∣ster's Son, perished, after he had made a great slaughter of the Enemy; though whether he died of Thirst, as is commonly said, or of the wounds he received, is uncertain. At length these Gascons were vanquished by Charles, and received from him the deserved Punishment of their Revolt and Perfidy. At this time Taxillo Duke of Bojaria, Desiderius's Son-in-law, having gained the Huns to be on his side, made an Attempt of War against the French, which yet Charles by his great Expedition al∣most made an end of before it was quite begun; and to him also, upon Hostages given, he granted a Peace. While these things were transacting in France, Constantine Emperour of the East, was seized with a Leprosy, (from whence perhaps arose the groundless Opinion of the Leprosy of Constantine the Great, through the confusion of their Names) and dying left Leo the fourth his Successour; who so strangely doated upon precious Stones, that robbing the Church of S. Sophia of its Jewels, he made with them a Crown of a vast weight and value, which he wore so often, that either through the Weight, or from the coldness of the Stones in it, he shortly fell sick and died. The same I believe to have happened in our Time to Paul the Second, who so effeminately prided himself in such Ornaments, almost exhausting the Treasury of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to purchase Jewels at any rate, that as often as he appeared publickly, instead of wearing a plain Mitre, he looked like the Picture of Cybele with Turrets on her Head; from whence, what with the weight of the Jewels and the sweat of his gross Body, I am apt to think arose that Apoplexy of which he died suddenly. After the Death of Leo, his Relict Irene and his Son Constantine managing the Em∣pire, in a Council of three 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and fifty Bishops held the second time at Nice, it was 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that whosoever mantained that the Images of the Saints were to be destroyed, should be censured with perpetual Excommunication. But young Constantine, through the per∣suasion of some ill men about him, treading in the Footsteps of his Fa∣ther, soon after revoked this Constitution, and wholly deprived his Mother of any share in the Administration of Affairs. Then putting away his Wife, he received to his Bed, and caused to be crowned Em∣press, Theodora one of her Maids. Moreover, he gave Order to those Commanders he had in Italy, to give disturbance to their Neighbours; but they were at the first Message terrified from any Attempts by the prevailing Authority of Charles, who at this time was advancing with his Forces against the Sclaves and Hunns, (or we may call them Hunga∣rians) because by their Incursions they had molested all the Countrey about the Danow; whom having vanquished, he marched into Franco∣nia the Countrey of his Ancestours, from whence the Franks or French derive their Name; which Province he having with ease brought to his Devotion, two years after Theophylact and Stephen two Bishops of great Note held a Synod of Frank and German Bishops, wherein that which the Greeks called the Seventh Synod, and the Felician Heresie touching the Destruction of Images, was condemned. Adrian being now by the Interest and Power of Charles secured from the fear of any warlike In∣cursions, applies himself to the repairing the City, beautifying the Churches, restoring the Aqueducts, and such like publick Works, which I need not particularly enumerate, performed at his vast Expence. But

while he was employed in these matters, there happened such an Inun∣dation of the River Tyber, as bore down a principal Gate, and Bridg, and several Buildings of the City, and did otherwise great Damage. In this Extremity Adrian took care to send Boats to convey Provisions to such as while the Waters were so high could not stir out of their Houses. And afterwards he comforted with his Advice, and support∣ed with his Charity, the principal sufferers in that Calamity; nor did he spare any Cost in repairing the publick Loss. In short, Adrian left nothing undone, that became a good Prince and excellent Pope; de∣fending the Christian Religion, maintaining the Roman Liberty, and as∣serting the Cause of the Poor, the Orphans and Widows. After he had held the Chair with great honour, twenty three years, ten months, he died, and was buried in S. Peters, December the 27th.

LEO III.

LEO the third, a Roman, Son of Azzupius, was upon the ac∣count of Merit advanced to the Pontificate, having been from his Youth so throughly educated and instructed in Ecclesiastical Learning, that he deserved to be preferred be∣fore all others. A modest, upright, and well-spoken Per∣son, and such a Favourer of learned Men, that he encouraged them by the Proposal of generous Rewards to resort from all Parts to him, and was wonderfully pleased with their Conversation. Moreover, to visit and exhort the sick, to relieve the Poor, to comfort the dejected, and, to reduce the erroneous by his Preaching and Admonition, in which through his Art and Eloquence he had gained a great Perfection, was his peculiar Provi∣dence. He was naturally of a meek Temper, a Lover of all Man∣kind, slow to Anger, ready to commiserate, eminent for Piety, and a vigorous Promoter and Defender of the Honour of God and his Church. Hereupon he was (as I have said) unanimously elected to the Papal See on S. Stephen's day, and the day following with general Acclama∣tions seated in S. Peter's Chair. At this time Irene, Mother of Con∣stantine the Emperour, not being able to bear her Son's ill Courses, and being instigated thereto by certain of the Citizens, returns to Con∣stantinople, puts out his Eyes, and throws him into Prison, where as an undutiful Son he miserably ended his days. In the mean time Charles having Disturbance given him on many sides, sends his Son Pi∣pin against the Hungarians, whom having worsted in several Engage∣ments, he at length totally subdued. Adelphonsus likewise King of Asturia and Gallicia, having received Auxiliary Forces from Charles, vanquished the Saracens and took Lisbon; upon the hearing of which Victory of his, the Garrison of Barcelona forthwith yielded up to Charles. Moreover, the Bavarians, who made Inroads upon the Inhabitants of Friuli, were now overcome by Henry, Charle's Lieutenant there. At this time Leo, with the Clergy and People, being employed in the Solcmn Procession 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Pope Gregory, he was through the trea∣chery

of Paschal and Campulus two of the principal Clergy, seized near the Church of S. Sylvester, stripped of his Pontifical Habit, so cruelly beaten and misused that it was thought he had been deprived both of his Sight and Speech, and then closely imprisoned in the Monastery of S. Erasmus. From whence yet soon after by the diligence of Albinus, one belonging to his Bed-chamber, he made his Escape, and was secret∣ly conveyed to the Vatican; where he lay concealed till Vinigisius Duke of Spoleto, being privately invited thereunto, came and with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Guard of Soldiers to secure him on his way from any Violence which his Enemies might offer to him, carried him off safely to Spo∣leto. The Factious being not now able to wreak their malice upon the Persons of Leo and Albinus, express their Rage in pulling down their Houses; nay so hardy and daring were they, as to go to Charles, who was now making War upon the Saxons, and to whom they understood Leo had repaired, on purpose to complain of and accuse the Pope. But Charles deferring the debate of the matter to another time, sends the Pope to Rome with an honourable Retinue, promising that himself would be there in a little time, in order to the composing of the Af∣fairs of Italy. Leo in his passage being come as far as Ponte Molle, was there in Honour met by the Clergy and People of Rome, who con∣gratulated his Return, and introduced him into the City. And Charles without making any long stay, passing through Mentz and Noremberg into Friuli, severely chastises the Citizens of Treviso for having put to Death Henry their Governour; and having constituted another to suc∣ceed him in that Office, he thence goes first to Ravenna, and presently after to Rome, where his Presence was earnestly desired and expected. At his Entrance into the City all imaginable expressions of Honour, as good reason was, were made to him. On the eighth day of his being there, in the presence of the People and Clergy, assembled in S. Peter's Church, he asked all the Bishops, who had come thither out of all the parts of Italy and France, what their Opinion was concerning the Life aud Conversation of the Pope. But Answer was made by all with one Voice, that the Apostolick See, the Head of all Churches, ought to be judged by none, especially not by a Laick. Hereupon, Charles laying aside any farther Enquiry into the matter, Pope Leo, who extreamly wished that he might be put upon that way of purging himself, going up into the Pulpit, and holding the Gospels in his hands, declared up∣on his Oath that he was innocent of all those things which were laid to his Charge. This was done on the thirteenth day of December, A. D. 800. While things went thus at Rome, Pipin by his Fathers Order advancing against the Beneventans, who under Grimoald's Conduct made Inroads upon their Neighbours, and having given them so many Defeats, that at length they were scarce able to defend themselves within the Walls of their City; he left the farther management of that War to Vinigisius Duke of Spoleto, and returned to his Father, who was now in a short time to be crowned Emperour. For the Pope, that he might make some Requital to Charles who had deserved so well of the Church, and also because he saw that the Emperours of Constanti∣nople were hardly able to maintain that Title; upon which account Rome and all Italy had suffered great Calamities; after Mass in S. Pe∣ter's Church, with the Consent and at the Request of the People of

Rome, declares with a loud Voice the said Charles to be Emperour, and put the Imperial Diadem upon his Head, the People repeating thrice this Acclamation, Long Life and Victory to Charles Augustus, whom God has Crowned, the Great and Pacifick Emperour. Then the Pope an∣nointed him, and his Son Pipin, whom in like manner he pronounced King of Italy. Charles being now invested with Imperial Power, gave Order that Campulus and Paschal, the Conspiratours against the Pope, should be put to Death; but the Pope, who was all Clemency, obtain∣ed a Pardon of their Lives, and they were only banished into France. After this, there were some who would have persuaded Charles to ex pell all the Lombards out of Italy. But that not appearing to be a safe course, because they had mingled in Bloud and Affinity with mul∣titudes of Families in Italy, it was determined both by Charles and Leo, that the Name of Lombard should remain there only, where that Nation had chiefly had their Seat. Pipin being now returned to Bonevent, and having continued the Siege of that place for several months without success, he turns his Arms against the City Chieti, of which having after some Opposition made himself Master by Force, he plunder'd and burnt it. Upon the terrour whereof at his marching thence he had the Cities of Ortona and Luceria surrendred to him, and in the latter he took Grimoald Duke of Benevent; who not long after died of Grief. In the mean time, the Empress of Constantinople send∣ing Ambassadours into Italy, enters into a League with Charles, their several Pretensions to Italy being thus adjusted, viz. Irene was to have that Part which beginning on the one side from Naples, and from Si∣ponto (a City now called Manfredonia) on the other, lies extended be∣tween the two Seas, Eastward, together with Sicily; all Italy beside, only excepting always those places which were under the Jurisdiction of the Church, were by the Articles of Peace adjudged to be Charle's own. But Nicephorus a Patrician stomaching to submit to the Domi∣nion of a Woman, having craftily seized Irene, and banished her into Lesbos, by his Ambassadours renews the League before entred into with Charles. Which Charles at this time compelled the Saxons, who had so often revolted, to remove with their Wives and Children into France, following them close in their Passage with his Army to pre∣vent their committing any Disorders as they went along. Pope Leo, being perpetually disturbed by one Sedition after another, leaving Rome, goes to Mantua, to see the Bloud of Christ which was now in great esteem for the Miracles said to be wrought there by it. Having been received with great Respect and Affection by the Mantuans, and approved it to be indeed Christ's Blood upon frequent Trial of the miraculous Effects of it, he makes a Journey to Charles, who was very desirous to know the Truth of this matter, that he might cer∣tifie him concerning it, and also that he might discourse with him a∣bout setling the Affairs of Italy. Returning then to Rome, and being assisted by King Pipin who had his Father's Order therein, he proceed∣ed to a gentle punishment of some of the chief Plotters and movers of Sedition. Charles being now very aged; having intelligence that Pi∣pin was dead at Milain, declares Lous, his younger Son, King of A∣quitain and his Successour in the Empire, and Bernard his Nephew

King of Italy, to whom he gave Charge that he should in all things be obedient to Louis. To the Extent of the Empire he set these bounds; in Gallia the Rhine and the Loyre, in Germany the Danow and the Saw; and to these Provinces he added Aquitain, Gascoigne, a great part of Spain, Lombardy, Saxony, both the Pannonia's, Istria, Croa∣tia, and Dalmatia, excepting only those parts of it scituate on the Sea∣coast, which were subject to the Emperour of Constantinople. Having thus setled Affairs, while he was at Aken for the recovery of his Health by the use of the hot Baths there, he died of a Feaver and Pleurisie, in the seventy second year of his Age, January the 28. An. Dom. 815. His Body was with all imaginable Pomp and Solemnity interred in the Church of S. Mary which himself had built at Aken, with this Inscription on his Tomb, MAGNI CAROLI RE∣GIS CHRISTIANISSIMI, ROMANORVMQVE IMPERATORIS CORPVS HOC SEPVLCHRO CONDITUM JACET. He was indeed, whether we regard his management of Civil or Military matters, so illustrious and excel∣lent an Emperour, that none of his Successours have either excelled or equalled him. Moreover, when leisure from other weighty Af∣fairs permitted him, he took such delight in the study of Learning, that it was he who, at the persuasion of Alcuinus, first made Paris an University. Of three Tables of Silver which he had, one, on which was engraven the City of Constantinople, he gave to the Church of S. Peter; another, on which the City of Rome was described, to the Church of Ravenna; the third, which some tell us was of Gold, on which was a Map of the whole World, he left to his Sons.

As for Pope Leo, having repaired the Roof of S. Paul's, which had fallen down in an Earthquake; built from the ground a very capaci∣ous Hospital for Strangers near S. Peters's; and ordained Litanies on the three days before Ascension-day; on the first of which the Pro∣cession was to be from S Marie's ad Proesepe to the Lateran Chruch; on the second, from the Church of S. Sabina to S. Paul's; and on the third, from S. Cross to S. Laurence's without the Walls; in the twenty first year of his Pontificate he died, which year there appear'd a Co∣met, thought by some to have been a Presage of so great a calamity. He was buried in S. Peter's, June the 12th. and the See was vacant ten days.

STEPHEN IV.

STEPHEN the fourth, a Roman, Son of Julius, in the third Month of his Pontificate went into France to the Empe∣rour Lewis; though the reason of his Journey is not certainly known. Some conjecture that it was to secure himself from the Reliques of the Faction and Conspiracy of Campulus, which upon the Death of Leo prevailed afresh. The Emperour Lewis, surnamed the Godly, was now at Orleans, who assoon as he had intelligence of the Popes coming, forthwith sends all the Persons of principal Quality to meet him; and among others particularly Theudolphus Bishop of Or∣leans, with the Clergy, and a great part of the People. And Louis Himself going forth a whole Mile for the same purpose, assoon as he saw him alighted off his Horse, and after mutual Salutations had pas∣sed between them, introduced him very honourably into the City, the Clergy going before and after repeating the Hymn, called Te Deum Laudamus. For Stephen was not only a Person of Noble Extraction, but of such Learning and Integrity, that he easily gain'd a general Ve∣neration for Sanctity, having been well instructed by an advantageous Education under those two pious Popes Adrian and Leo. Being entred into the City, supported by the Emperour because of the croud of the People who press'd out of a desire to see him, he was conducted to the Apartment appointed for him in the Palace; where he often had Con∣ferences with the Emperour about the composure of the Affairs of Italy, besides the other frequent mutual Entertainments and Civilities that pass'd between them. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 would have detained the Pope longer with him, had he not now been engaged in such important Wars, that it was necessary he should oppose the Enemy in Person. For both the Ga∣scons had revolted, whom in a short time he reduc'd; and those of Bre∣taigne began to endeavour a change of Government, whom in like manner by his Arms he kept in Obedience; and moreover at an As∣sembly held at Aken, he granted Peace to the Ambassadours sent from the Saracens inhabiting Saragosa. Stephen being now upon his depar∣ture, in Imitation of our Saviour, who spared even his Enemies, obtain∣ed of Louis, that all those whom Charles had punished with Banishment or Imprisonment for their Conspiracy against Leo, might have their Liber∣ty. He also carried with him a Cross of great Weight and Value, made at the Charge of Louis, and by him dedicated to S. Peter. But return∣ing to Rome, he died in the seventh month of his Pontificate; and was buried in S. Peter's; and by his Death the See was vacant eleven days.

PASCHAL I.

PASCHAL, a Roman, Son of Bonosus, was created Pope without any Interposition of the Emperours Authority. Where∣upon at his first Investiture in that Office, he forthwith sends Nuntio's to Louis, excusing himself, and laying all the blame up∣on the Clergy and People of Rome, who had forcibly compell'd him to undertake it. Louis accepting this for Satisfaction from Paschal, sends to the Clergy and People, admonishing them to observe the ancient Con∣stitution, and to beware how they presum'd for time to come to in∣fringe the Rights of the Emperour. Also, in the Assembly held at Aken, he associated to himself in the Empire his eldest Son Lotha∣rius, and declared Pipin his second Son King of Aquitain, and Louis his third Son King of Bavaria. But Bernardus King of Italy, having upon the Instigation of certain Bishops and seditious Citizens, revolt∣ed from the Empire, and compelled some Cities and States to swear Allegiance to himself, Louis being hereat incensed, sends a strong Army into Italy; whose Passage over the Alpes Bernardus endeavouring to oppose, he was vanquished. The Heads of the Rebellion being taken were presently cut off, and Bernardus himself, though he very sub∣missively begg'd forgiveness, was put to Death at Aken, Those Bi∣shops who had been Authors of the mischief were by a Decree of Synod confined into several Monasteries. This Tumult, for so it was rather than a War, being thus composed, Louis moves with his Army against the Saxons, rebelling now afresh, and overcomes and slays Vi∣romarchus their hardy Chief, who aspired to the Kingdom. After this, he sends his Son Lotharius, whom he had declared King of Italy, to the Pope; by whom he was anointed in the Church of S. Peter's; with the Title of Augustus. But there arising great Commotions in Italy, and Lotharius seeing himself unable to withstand them, he goes to his Father in order to provide greater Force. Upon which Theo∣dorus the Primicerius, and Leo the Nomenclator, having had their Eyes first pull'd out were murdered in a Tumult in the Lateran Pa∣lace. There was some who laid the blame of this Disorder upon Pa∣schal himself; but he in a Synod of thirty Bishops did both by Con∣jectures, and by Reasons, and by his Oath purge himself of it. Louis rested himself satisfied herewith, and as Anastasius tells us, that no fu∣ture Disturbance might arise from uncertain Pretensions, writing to Paschal, he declared in his Letters what Cities of Tuscany were subject to the Empire, viz. Arezzo, Volterra, Chiusi, Florence, which had been repaired and enlarged by his Father Charles the Great, Pistoia, Luca, Pisa, Peragia, and Orvieto; the others he allowed to be under the Jurisdiction of the Church of Rome. He added moreover Todi in Umbria, and Romagna beyond the Appennine, with the Exarchate of Ravenna. The same Anastasius says, that Louis granted to Paschal a free Power (the same which he also tells us was given by Charles to Pope Adrian) of chusing Bishops, whereas before the Emperours were

wont to be advised, and their consent and Confirmation desired in the Case. Our Paschal, who for his Piety and Learning had been by Pope Stephen made Prior of the Monastery of S. Stephen in the Vatican, be∣ing now in the Chair, both caused the Bodies of several Saints which before lay neglectedly to be conveyed into the City with great So∣lemnity, and honourably interred; and also by paying their Credi∣tors procured the Release of divers poor Prisoners. He also built from the ground the Church of S. Praxedes the B. Martyr, not far from the old one, which through Age and the Clergy's neglect was run to Ruin. This Church having consecrated, he oftentimes celebrated Mass in it, and also reposited therein the Bodies of many Saints which lay about unregarded in the Coemeteries. In the same Church was an Oratory dedicated to S. Agnes, which he made very stately and ornamental. Moreover, he built the Church of S. Cecily (as appears still by an In∣scription on the Nave of it) in which he in like manner reposited the Bodies of that Virgin her self and her affianced Husband Valerianus, as also of Tiburtius and Maximus, Martyrs, and Urban and Lucius, Bishops of Rome, adorning it with all kinds of Marble, and enriching it with Presents of Gold and Silver. He also repaired the Church of S. Mary ad Praesepe, that had been decayed by Age, and alter'd the Nave of it to advantage. In fine, having been very exemplary for Re∣ligion and Piety, Good Nature and Bounty; after he had been in the Chair seven years, two months, seven days, he died, and was buried in S. Peter's. The See was then vacant only four days.

EUGENIUS II.

EUGENIUS the second, a Roman, Son of Boemundus, was for his Sanctity, Learning, Humanity and Eloquence unanimous∣ly chosen into the Pontificate, at that time particularly when Lotharius coming into Italy, made choice of a Magistrate for the Administration of Justice, and Execution of the Laws among the People of Rome, who after a long and heavy Servitude had enjoyed some Liberty under the Emperour Charles and his Sons. In the mean time Louis after he had for forty days been spoiling and laying waste the Countrey of Bretagne with Fire and Sword, having received Ho∣stages, he goes to Roan, and there gives Audience to the Ambassadours of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Emperour of Constantinople, who came to consult what his Opinion was concerning the Images of the Saints, whether they were to be utterly abolished and destroyed, or kept up and restored again. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 referred them to the Pope, who was principally concerned to determine in the Matter. After this he marched against the Bul∣garians who were now making Inrodes into the Pannonia's, and at first repelled them; but Haydo Governour of Aquitain, upon confidence of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Forces from Abderamann King of the Saracens, having rebel∣led, he was obliged to quit this War; and so the Bulgarians, in an hostile manner march'd without controll through the middle of the

hostile manner march'd without controll through the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Pannonia's into Dalmatia. But before Louis advanced 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, a great part of Spain had revolted to Haydo, who sent out a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which annoyed the Sea-port Towns all about. Only 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 of Barcelona, though he had disturbance given him 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 Land, yet continued firm to the Emperour. Our 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 in the Gifts of Body and Mind, and despising the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Fortune, applyed himself to Works of Bounty and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and particularly took so much care in the matter of Provision, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 sorts of it and especially Grain was no where cheaper than at 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Moreover, he supported the Lives, and defended the Cause of the Poor, the Fatherless and Widow in such a manner, that he deserved∣ly gain'd the name of the Father of the Poor. The same course 〈◊〉〈◊〉 living he also took before his Pontificate; both while he was a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of S. Sabina in the Aventine, which Church when he came to be Pope he beautified, and also while he was Arch-Priest of the Lateran Church, from which place he was afterwards for his great Merit by an unanimous Choice advanced to the Papal Chair. By his Pro∣curement and Intercession likewise all the Prisoners and Exiles in France returned at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Rome; who being strip'd of all they 〈◊〉〈◊〉, were relieved and supported by his Charity. Nor was it his fault that Sico Duke of Benevent did not quit the Siege of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which he at this time reduced to great Straits, and carried from thence the Body of S. Ianuarius to Benevent, where he honourably 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 in the Great Church with Desiderius and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. For the Pope 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 voured to persuade Sico to undertake an Expedition against the Sara cens, who had already possess'd themselves of Palermo in Sicily. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 good Man having after this manner continued four years in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, died lamented of all, who grieved for themselves rather 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for him, to whom Death was a welcom Passage into 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 was buried in S. Peter's.

VALENTINE I.

VALENTINE, a Roman, son of Leontius, being only a Deacon, not a Priest, was yet for his extraordinary Sanctity deservedly preferred to the Pontificate. Nor will it appear strange, if we consider that having from his Youth upwards been instructed in Learning and Piety by chose good Popes Paschal and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he did not give his Mind to Pleasures and Sports, as most young men are wont to do, but applied himself to the acquiring of knowledg by the reading of the Antients, and the Rule of good living from the Example of holy Bishops. He was more∣over a Person of such ready Parts, and prevailing Eloquence, that he had a great Facility in persuading to, or against, what he pleased; without offering any thing that was not found, learned, and decent. Finally, both in his private Station, and while he was Pope, he came 〈◊〉〈◊〉 none of his Predecessours, in Devotion, Mercy, and Charity. For these Reasons he was unanimously elected to the Chair; but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as a punishment upon the sins of that Age, he died on the fortieth day of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Peter's; all People lament∣ing that they were bereft of such a Man, who if he had lived would have been an almost impregnable Support to the Roman Liberty and the Christian Religion. While the See was vacant, Sicardus Duke of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who after his Father's Death ruled tyrannically, for the want of a Bride which he expected, cast Deus-dedit Abbot of Monte Cassino into Prison, where he died with the Reputation of being a Holy Man.

GREGORY IV.

GREGORY the fourth, a Roman, Son of John, and Cardinal of S. Mark, entred upon the Pontificate at the time when the Saracens possess'd of Asia shut up the Passage to the Holy Land from the Christians, and the Moors passing with their Fleet into 〈◊〉〈◊〉, wasted a great part of that Island, having (as is already said) made themselves Masters of Palermo. Nor could the Venetians, though at the Desire of Michael Emperour of Constantinople, they sailed thither, check their Proceedings; the Moors having more Ships and Men than they. The State of Venice was now in its Increase, having had it's Original from the Veneti, at the time when Attila with his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 took and destroyed Aquileia, Concordia, Altino, with other Cities of the Province anciently called Venetia; that People having no other 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against the Cruelty of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but only the Fens and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Patricius was now Duke of Venice. whose 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 chuse to mention, because in his time the Body of

S. Mark was by some Venetian Merchants brought from Alexandria to Venice, where that Saint is now had in great Veneration, a most mag∣nificent Church being in the principal part of the City built and dedi∣cated to him, and adorned and enriched with very great Donations. And srom hence it was that the Venetians first bore upon their Stan∣dards and Banners the Picture of S. Mark, as the Patron of their City. But Gregory understanding that the Venetians were not able to expel these Barbarians out of the Island, sends to Louis and Lotharius, de∣siring them to send Aid to the Sicilians at the first Opportunity. They were very shy of the Business, allcdging that that War belonged to Michael Emperour of Constantinople; but yet declared themselves ready to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their share of Men and Moneys for the undertaking of it. But in the mean time, while Ambassadours were sent srom one to the other about that Assair, Boniface Earl of Corsica, with his Bro∣ther Bertarius, and the Assistance of some of the People of Tuscany, sailing into Asrica, engaged four times with the Enemy between Vti∣ca and Carthage, where he made so great a Slaughter, that the Moors were forced, as formerly in Scipio's time, to re-call their Forces from Sicily to the Succour of their own Countrey in Distress, and by this means Sicily was delivered from them. Boniface then returns with his victorious Fleet, laden with vast Spoils, from Africa into Corsica. Some there are that write, that during this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Italy, the Emperour Lotha∣rius envying the preference that his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Louis did in all matters give to his youngest Brother Charles, afterwards surnam'd the Bald, he put him in Prison, but soon after set him sree; and that the Barbarians taking hold of the opportunity, embark'd in a great Fleet from Asrica for Italy, and arriv'd at Centum Celloe, which City (since call'd Civila∣vecchia,) some will have to be demolish'd by'em; and that from 〈◊〉〈◊〉 marching to Rome, they took that City: but this is not probable. What is said concerning Centum-Celloe I shall not deny, and I doubt not but that they attempted the taking of Rome it self, but Guy Marquess of Lom∣bardy defended it so stoutly, that having burnt the Suburbs and the Churches of SS. Peter and Paul in the Via Latina, they withdrew to Monte-Cassino, where they destroy'd the Town of S. German and the Mo∣nastery of S. Benet which slood on the Hill, and going down to the Sea∣side near the River Garigliano (whither their Fleet was brought from Ostia) they invaded Tarentum and Sicily; and, as I said before, were re∣called home by their own Countrey-men at that time broken in War by the Valour of Boniface. I take it to be about this time, that the Body of the Apostle S. Bartholomew was translated from Lipari in Sicily to Beneventum by Sicardus Prince of that place (who was personally pre∣sent in this great War) lest the Body of the Holy Apostle should fall into the hands of the Enemies of the name of Christ. But to return to Gre∣gory. He was a person of so much Modesty, that though he were cho∣sen as well by the Clergy as People of Rome, yet he would not take upon him the Office of Pope, till he was confirmed by those Am∣bassadours of the Emperour Louis, who had been dispatch'd by him to Rome that they might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 an Election of so great moment. This was not done by Louis out of Pride, but with respect to the Preservation of the Imperial Prerogative, he being naturally very kind and gracious, and one that always took care of the Dignity and Pri∣vileges

of the Church. For he ordain'd that they who should take upon 'em a Religious Life should be exempt from all secular services, and that every Church should be endowed with such a certain income, as that the Priests might live without being forced for want of necessaries to forsake the Divine Service or to take up any Trade. Beside in the Year 830. he held a Synod of a great many Bishops, designed for the honour of God and the advantage of the Church, wherein it was ordained, that noither Bishops nor 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 degree soever should 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 in sum∣ptuous and gaudy Apparel, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Silk, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or embroidered; nor that they should wear on their Fingers any precious stones (except Pre∣lates at Mass) nor that Gold or 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should be used on their Girdles, Shooes or Pantosles, which 〈◊〉〈◊〉 is far from all Religion and a mani∣fest sign of great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and vanity. Would to God, Lewis, thou mightest live in our times. Thy holy Institutions, thy Censures are wanting in the Church at this present, when the Clergy let themselves loose to all manner of luxury and pleasure. You may see now not only the Men in Scarlet and Purple, which perhaps would be no great mat∣ter, but even their Horses and Beasts of Carriage; and when they march in State, a number of Footmen must go before them, and they must be follow'd by another retinue of Priests, not riding upon Asses, as Christ did (who was the Author of our Religion and the only pattern of well living on earth) but upon Steeds pamper'd add betrapped as if they came in triumph 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a vanquish'd Enemy. 'Twould be to no purpose to speak of their Silver Vessels, their choice Houshold-stuss and Dishes of Meat, when in comparison of them the dainties of Sicily, the most magnificent Apparel and the Plate of Corinth would be thought of no value. What will be the effect of this Exorbitance I shall not determine here, lest I should seem to pry into the decrees of Hea∣ven. I return to Lewis, who by these means taking care as well for Religion as the Public 〈◊〉〈◊〉 died in the 36. year of his Empire and lies buried in the Church of S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He was not long after follow'd by our Pope Gregory, remarkable for his birth, famous for his sanctity, notable for Learning and Eloquence, and worthy of admiration for his care and diligence in both Spiritual and Civil affairs: For he did after an extraordinary manner consult the good of the People, by containing the wealthy in their duty, by feeding the poor, comforting the hopeless, and reducing those that went astray into the right way by wholesom admonitions; he also restor'd many Churches which time had ruined. Those that were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to H. Orders he kept to their duty as long as he liv'd by his advice and example. This holy Pope translated the Body of S. Gregory, and very much adorning it he placed it where now it lies, where many people in those times either out of devotion or for the sake of some Vow, were wont to keep watch. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 said that the Bodies of S. Sebastian and Tiburtius were also translated by him from the Cemeteries in which they lay before, to the Church of S. Peter. Some Authors say, that Gregory at the request of Lewis instituted the Feast of All-Saints on the first day of November, which act of his was much commended both in Prose and Verse by Rabanus a Monk. a famous Divine; for in both those ways of writing that learned Man was excellent, especially con∣sidering the Age he liv'd in. The same 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also wrote Commenta∣ries on the Books of Chronicles and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He made eloquent Ser∣mons

to the people, but that of his is chiefly celebrated which he made upon All-Saints day. Gregory died in the 16. year of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, after which the See was void 15. days.

SERGIUS.

SERGIUS the second, a Roman, whose Father was nam'd Sergius, of the fourth Ward, came to the Popedom at the same time that Michael Emperour of Constantinople died. 'Tis said that this Sergius was surnamed Bocca di Porco or Hogs-mouth, which for shame of it he changed for Sergius, and that from thence came the Cu∣stom down to our times, that when any one is made Pope he laid by his own name and took one of some of his Predecessours; though all have not observ'd it. However it was, 'tis certain, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sergius came of a noble Family and degenerated not from his Ancestors, being assisted in his good Inclinations by Leo III. Stephen IV. Eugenius II. and Gregory IV. under whose tuition he lived so well, that upon the Death of Gregory he alone was thought worthy of the Pontifical Dignity. At that time there was so great a feud between the Sons of Lewis, about the division of the Empire, that Lewis and Charles gave their Brother Lotharius Battel in the Countrey of Auxerre near Fontenay, where many on both sides were slain; Lotharius losing the day, fled first to Aken, but being forc'd from thence by the pursuing Enemy, he convey'd himself with his Wife and Children to Vienna. Hither also he was follow'd by his Brother with their Army, to whom not only many of the great men of the Empire came, but several also were sent by Pope Sergius to endeavour to make Peace between them, the chief of whom was George Arch-Bishop of Ra∣venna, who having been before to make up the matter, was present with Lotharius in the second Battel, and the Victory inclining to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Lewis, he lost all his Train there (of 300 Horsemen) and hardly escap'd alone from the slaughter. But these men at last looking with pity upon the misery and ruin under which the whole Empire lay, pro∣cur'd a Peace upon these terms, viz. That the Western part of the Em∣pire which reach'd from the British Ocean to the Maese, should be subject to Charles, and the name of Franks should continue to the Inhabitants: That all Germany as far as the River Rhine, and so much on the other side of it as his Father had been possess'd of, should be allotted to Lewis; and that Lotharius should with the title of Emperour hold the City of Rome with Italy and that part of France which was formerly call'd Gallia Nar∣bonensis, now Provence. To this they added, that Countrey lying be∣tween the Rivers Scheld and Roan, which as I suppose now took the name of Lotharingia [Lorain] from Lotharius. Matters being thus composed, Lotharius sends his Son Lewis, whom he had taken into a Partnership in the Empire, into Italy with a mighty Army, giving him for Companions Drogon Bishop of Metz, and others of the Clergy eminent for Prudence and Gravity, by whose advice he was to govern himself.

But the young man being puss'd up with his great fortune wheresoever he march'd, sill'd the Countrey with slaughter, rapine, and destruction. Yet when he approach'd the City and the Citizens of Rome came out of respect to meet him, laying by his Gaulish sierceness he grew more mild, because contrary to his expectation he found that he might enter the City without force of Arms. The Religious also came a mile out of the City to meet him with their Crucifixes singing, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the Highest. Thus they accompa∣nied him as far as the steps of S. Peter's Church, where meeting the Pope they reciprocally kissed and greeted each other and went toge∣ther to the Silver Gates which were not opened. Then said the Pope, If thou comest hither with peaceable and friendly intentions, and if thou, hast more regard to the advantage of Christianity than to the pleasure of exercising cruelty and rapine, then with my good will thou mayest enter; if thou art otherwise minded, touch not these Gates, for over thy head hangs a Sword, which will certainly avenge any such wickedness. But when he had given the Pope assurance, immediately the doors were thrown open. Hereupon a multitude of Romans and Franks entring pel-mel, as soon as they came to the Altar of S. Peter, they all kneel∣ing down together gave thanks to God Almighty and to the Prince of the Apostles, that matters had been carried according to their minds without hurt to any body; this was done upon the Monday after Whit∣son-day. But soon after the Suburbs were sack'd by the Soldiers, and it wanted little but that they had got into the City for the same end, so that the eighth day aster their coming the Pope anointed Lewis with the holy Oil, crown'd him and declar'd him King of Italy. Soon after came Siconolfus Prince of Beneventum to congratulate him, and then the multitude was such that the Trees were lopt, the Beasts driven away and even the standing-Corn cut down, that their Horses might not want Provender. The Pope therefore easily agreed to all their requests, if they were reasonable, that he might the sooner rid the City of them: and the Romans being now delivered from the fear of their tyrannical Barbarity celebrated their Pope as the true Vicar of Christ and the only Father of his Countrey. He betaking himself to the beautifying of Churches, reslor'd that of SS. Sylvester and Martin which time had ruin'd, and in it together with those of the two Confessors, he plac'd the Bodies of Fabianus, Stephanus, Sotherius, Asterius, Cyriacus, Maurus, Smaragdus, Anastasius, Innocentius, Quirinus, Leo, Arthemius, Theodorus and Nicander. He built also near that Church from the foundation a Monaslery dedicated to SS. Peter and Paul, where Mass was incessantly sung. But at last this holy Pope having manag'd the assairs of the Church with great integrity and success, in the third year of his Ponti∣sicate, died and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The Sea was vacant upon his death fifteen days.

LEO IV.

LEO the fourth, a Roman, son of Radulphus, was in the year 848. by a general consent elected Pope, and very deservedly; for he was one that whilst he liv'd a private life, was very eminent for Religion, Innocence, Piety, Good Nature, Li∣berality and especially for Ecclesiastical Learning. He was a per∣son of so much Prudence and Courage that as the Gospel directs, he could, when it was necessary imitate either the Wisdom of the Ser∣pent or the Innocence of the Dove. So general was the good Report of him that Pope Sergius II. was persuaded to create this pattern of Virtue a Priest from a Sub-deacon and to give him the Title and Church Sanctorum quatuor Coronatorum, from whence upon the death of Sergius he was brought to the Lateran Church and plac'd in S. Peter's Chair, being universaily saluted as Pope, all that were present, accord∣ing to ancient Custom kissing his feet. There are some of opinion, that by the prayers of this good man it was, that God was mov'd to repress the rage of the Saracens by drowning their Fleet as they were returning home laden with Spoil. For they having overcome Theodo∣tius, Admiral to the Emperor Michael in a Sea-fight near Tarentum, they ravag'd far and near through Italy without opposition, and having ta∣ken and sack'd Ancona and harass'd the Coast of Dalmatia, when they were returning triumphantly to their own Countrey, it pleased God they were cast away at Sea by storm. So that Leo being free from his fear of the Saracens, betook himself to publick works, and caused Benches of Marble to be plac'd in the entrance to the Lateran Cloister and finish'd the Gallery which Leo III. had begun. This good Prelate ordain'd that yearly in the Church of S. Paul, on the Birth-day of that Apostle Vesper's should be said by all the Clergy. He prohibited all Lay-men entrance into the Chancel during Divine Service. About this time at his command solemn Supplications were made to avert Gods anger, which the frequent Earthquakes seem'd to threaten. He adorn'd after an extraordinary manner the Cross which Charles the Emperor had given to the Basilica Constantiniana, which had been pilfer'd of the pre∣cious stones that belong'd to it. 'Tis sure he was a man of so great sanctity, that by his Prayers he drove away out of an Arch in S. Lucie's Church, a Basilise (call'd by the Latins Regulus) which with its breath and poison had kill'd many; and by the sign of the Cross he stop'd a great fire, which had burn'd down the quarter where the Sa∣xons and Lombards liv'd, and reach'd very near S. Peter's Church. This happened the eighth day after the Assumption of our Lady, which day was afterward kept as a Festival without the walls not far from S. Lau∣rence's Church, where stood a Church dedicated to the B. Virgin, to which this munificent Pope had made many donaries of Gold and Silver. Beside this he finished the Mosaic work in the Churches of SS. Martin and Silvester in montibus, and the Pargetting which Scrgius had begun, as the Inscription shews which is all that is lest; the painting being long

since perish'd either for want of care or by time and rottenness. He took care also that the Cross of Gold which uses to be born before the Pope, was deck'd with precious stones, and neglected no manner of Ornament that might contribute to the honour of the Christian name. He re-edified the City-Walls and Gates that had suffer'd by Age, and raised from the Ground fifteen Forts 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the defence of the City; of which two were very necessary, one 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the right, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 other on the left hand of the Tiber below the Hills Janiculus and Aventinus, to hinder the Ships of any Enemy from entring the Town. He by his diligence found out the Bodies of the Sancti quatuor coronati, and built a Church to them after a magnificent manner; and reposited their bodies under the Altar, viz. Sempronianus, Claudius, Nicostratus, Castorius; to which he added those of Severus, Severianus, Carpophorus, Victorinus, Marius, Felicissimus, Agapetus, Hippolytus, Aquila, Priscus, Aquinus, Narcissus, Marcellinus, Felix, Apollos, Benedict, Venantius, Diogenes, Liberalis, Fe∣stus, Marcellus (the head of S. Protus) Cecilia, Alexander, Sixtus, Se∣bastian, Praxedes. But while he was diligently intent upon these Af∣fairs, as became so holy a man, news was brought that the Saracens were coming with a huge Fleet to sack the City, and that the Neapoli∣tans and the Inhabitants upon that shore would come to his assistance; whereupon with what forces he could raise he march'd to Ostia, and summon'd thither the Auxiliaries, designing upon the first opportu∣nity to fight the Enemy. But first this holy Pope exhorted his Soul∣diers to receive the Sacrament, which being devoutly perform'd, he prayed to God thus,

O God whose right hand did support the blessed Peter when he walk'd upon the Waves, and sav'd him from drowning, and delivered from the deep his fellow-Apostle Paul when he was thrice shipwrack'd, hear us mercifully and grant that for their merits the hands of these thy faithful ones fighting against the Enemies of thy holy Church, may by thy almighty arm be con∣firm'd and strengthened; that thy holy Name may appear glorious before all Nations in the Victory that shall be gained.

Having pro∣nounc'd this, by making the sign of the Cross he gave the signal for Battel, and the onset was made by his Souldiers with great briskness as if they had been sure of Victory, which after a tedious Dispute was theirs, the Enemies being put to flight; many of them perish'd in the fight, but most were taken alive and brought to Rome; where the Citi∣zens would have some of them hang'd without the City for a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the rest, very much against the mind of Leo, who was very remark∣able for Gentleness and Clemency, but it was not for him to oppose the rage of a multitude. Those that were taken alive Leo made use of in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 those Churches which the Saracens had heretofore ruin'd and burnt, and in building the Wall about the Vatican, which from his own name he call'd 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Leonina. This he did lest the Ene∣my should with one slight assault take and sack the Church of S. Peter, as heretofore they were wont. The Gates also had his Prayers, for upon that which leads to S. Peregrin this was graven in Marble,

O God, who by giving to thy Apostle S. Peter the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven didst 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon him the Pontifical Authority of binding and loosing, grant that by the help of his intercession we may be delivered from all mischievous Attempts, and that this City which

now with thy assistance I have newly founded may be free or ever from thine anger, and may have many and great Victories over those Enemies against whom it is built.

And on the second Gate near S. Angelo that leads into the fields were these words,

O God, who from the beginning of the World didst vouchsafe to preserve and establish this holy Catholick and Apostolical Church of Rome, mercifully blot 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the hand-writing of our iniquity, and grant that this City which we assisted by the Intercession of the Apostles Peter and Paul have new∣ly dedicated to thy holy name, may remain secure from the evil ma∣chinations of its Enemies.

The third was on the front of the Gate by which we go to the Saxons School in these words,

Grant we beseech thee, almighty and merciful God, that crying to thee with our whole heart, and the blessed Apostle Peter interceding for us, we may obtain thy favour. We continually beg of thy mercy, that the City which I thy servant Leo IV. Bishop of Rome have dedicated anew and cal∣led Leonina from my own name, may continue safe and prosperous.

This City he began in the first year of his Pontificate and finish'd in his sixth, and gave it to be a habitation for the men of Corsica, who had been driven out of that Island by the Saracens, to each of whom also he as∣sign'd a piece of ground for his maintenance. But I wonder now that another Inscription is to be read on these Gates in dull Hexameter Verse, which I cannot by any means think to be Leo's, though it go under his name. Of the Spoils of the Saracens he made several donations of Gold and Silver to the Churches of Rome. Some write that 'twas by his com∣mand that S. Mary's Church in the new street and the Tower in the Va∣tican next S. Peter's now to be seen, were built. Beside he restor'd the Silver-door of S. Peter which had been pillag'd by the Saracens. He held a Synod of 47. Bishops, wherein Anastasius Presbyter Cardinal of S. Marcellus was by the Papal Canons convict of several Crimes, upon which he was condemned and excommunicate, the chief allegation being that for five years he had not resided in his Parish. Moreover he brought Colonies from Sardinia and Corsica (which now upon the repulse of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had some respite) and planted them in Hostia, which partly by reason of the unhealthiness of the Air and partly by being so of∣ten 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was left without Inhabitants. Lastly, he fully satisfied Lotharius, who having been inform'd that Leo was upon a design of translating the Empire to the Constantinopolitans, came himself to Rome. But the Informers being caught in Lies received condign punishment, and the friendship was on both sides renewed. 'Tis said that Johannes Scotus, a learned Divine, liv'd at this time, who coming into France, by the command of K. Lewis, translated S. Dionysius's Book de Hierar∣chia out of Greek into Latin, but was soon after (as they say) stab'd with a Bodkin by some of his Scholars: but the occasion of this villa∣nous act is not any where recorded. 'Tis said too, that now Ethel∣wolph K. of England, out of devotion, made his Countrey tributary to the Church of Rome, by charging a penny yearly upon every house. Our holy Pope Leo having deserv'd well of the Church of God, of the City of Rome and of the whole Christian name for his Wisdom, Gravity, Diligence, Learning and the Magnificence of his works, died in the eighth year, third month and sixth day of his Pontificate, on the 17. day of July, and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The Sea was then void two months and fifteen days.

JOHN VIII.

JOHN, of English Extraction, but born at Mentz, is said to have arriv'd at the Popedom by evil Arts; for disguising her self like a Man, whereas she was a Woman, she went when young with her Paramour, a learned man, to Athens, and made such progress in Learning under the Professors there, that coming to Rome, she met with few that could equal, much less go beyond her, even in the knowledge of Scriptures; and by her learned and ingenious readings and disputations, she acquir'd so great respect and authority, that upon the death of Leo, (as Martin says) by common consent she was chosen Pope in his room. But suffering afterward one of her Domesticks to lie with her, she hid her big-bel∣ly a while, till as she was going to the Lateran Church between the Colossean Theatre (so call'd from Nero's Coloss) and S. Clement's, her travail came upon her and she died upon the place, having sat two years, one month and four days, and was buried there without any pomp. Some say, the Pope for shame of the thing does purposely de∣cline going through that street when he goes to the Lateran, and that to avoid the like Error, when any Pope is first plac'd in the Porphyry Chair, which has a hole made for the purpose, his Genitals are hand∣led by the youngest Deacon. As for the first I deny it not; but for the second, I take the reason of it to be, that he who is plac'd in so great authority may be minded that he is not a God but a man, and obnoxious to necessities of Nature, as of easing his body, whence that Seat hath the name of Sedes stercoraria. This story is vulgarly told, but by very uncertain and obscure Authors, and therefore I have re∣lated it barely and in short, lest I should seem obstinate and pertina∣cious if I had omitted what is so generally talk'd; I had better mi∣stake with the rest of the World; though it be certain, that what I have related may be thought not altogether incredible. Some say, that at this time the Body of S. Vincent was brought by a Monk from Valentia in Spain to a Village in Albigeois in France. They say too, that Lotharius being now aged, taking on him a Monastic habit, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Empire to his Son Lewis, who passing into Germany by his presence composed matters there which otherwise threatned a War.

BENEDICT III.

BENEDICT the third, by birth a Roman, Son of Peter; he was deservedly called Benedictus for the Sanctity of his Life and his knowledg in Divinity. For while he lived un∣der Gregory, he was made by him Sub-Deacon, and thence∣forward led so exemplary a life, that upon the death of Leo, he onely was thought worthy to succeed so great a Pope. To him there∣fore they address themselves, as to a kind Angel by God sent down to them, and presently declare him Pope. He weeping and calling God and his holy Saints to witness profess'd himself utterly unworthy of so high a dignity. But the Election being universally lik'd and applauded, he at last unwillingly accepted of the Office, was brought to the Lateran and plac'd in S. Peter's Chair, whence he was led upon a white Horse to the Church of S. Mary maggiore, where he spent three days in Fasting and Prayer, begging God to grant that he might govern his Church with integrity and holiness. The third day past, the People came thi∣ther again, and according to custom, kissed his feet, especially those of the faction of Rhodoardus Bishop of Porto, who the day before had at∣tempted to set up instead of Benedict one Anastasius an obscure man, who had been turned out of his Bishoprick by Leo; but now finding their error, they asked pardon, and becoming of the right opinion, they also made the usual adoration to this holy man. As likewise did the Embassadours sent to Rome by the Emperor Lewis to confirm the Electi∣on of the Clergy and Laity. The next day he was attended by the People to S. Peter's Church, where being according to custom and an∣cient tradition, publickly consecrated, he received the insignia of his Office with unanimous shouts and acclamations. For he was a man of so sweet a temper and so great modesty both in his mind and aspect, that as well in his publick managements as in his private station he gain'd the love and respect of all men. And now setting his mind on the ser∣vice of God he repair'd many Churches almost tottering with age, and increased their Treasures. He ordain'd that the Pope and Clergy should accompany the funerals of Bishops, Priests and Deacons, as well to ho∣nour their Corps as to pray for their Souls; and that the Clergy should in like manner attend the Funerals of Popes; and what he had thus or∣dain'd himself observ'd punctually as long as he liv'd, for he was al∣ways present at the burials of the Priests. He was a frequent visiter of the sick, a nursing Father to the poor, a comforter of the miserable and hopeless, a zealous patron of the Widow and Fatherless. And in thus doing having spent a most holy life, late enough for himself, but too soon for the people of Rome, he died, having sate two years six months and nine days, and was buried before S. Peter's Church-doors. The Sea then was vacant fifteen days.

NICOLAS I.

NICOLAS the first, a Roman born, Son of Theodosius, was ingenuously and religiously educated from his Childhood and made first Sub-deacon by Sergius, then Deacon by Leo. In which Order he stood, when with great piety and many tears he laid the body of Benedict in the Grave, whose Exequies being perform'd, it was necessary to think of a Successor, and the People here∣upon press'd the Divine Majesty with prayers, watchings and fastings, that he would vouchsafe them as good a Pope as him they had lost. After a long consultation in the Church of S. Denys Pope and Confessor (where they convened for this purpose) they chose this Nicolas Pope; but he was absent and upon hearing the news fled into the Vatican, and there hid himself to avoid the Dignity, where at length they found him, brought him to the Lateran, and plac'd him however unwilling in the Apostoli∣cal Chair. Being consecrated in S. Peter's Church and agreeably to cu∣stom having put on the Pontifical Mitre, he concerted several affairs with the Emperor Lewis relating to the Popedom and to the Empire. Lewis afterwards leaving Rome, staid at a place the Romans call Quinto, whether 'tis said Nicolas went attended by the great men of the City, and was honourably received, for the Emperor came a mile to meet him, and alighting took his Horse-bridle in his hand and led him into the Camp. And indeed he was a man of so great veneration and ma∣jesty, and of so much learning and eloquence, that like the Deity, he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 respect from all men. After some repast, they held a long and private Conference, and then having kiss'd each other, the Pope return'd to Rome; which he found so overflow'd by an extraordinary rise of the Tiber, that there was no passing from street to street but in boats. S. Laurence's Church and the Monastery of S. Sylvester, with all the low part between Via lata, Campidoglio and the Aventine was so much under water, that another deluge was feared; many houses were born down by it, Trees forc'd up by the roots and Corn that was sown was quite wash'd away; and the same happened again the same year in December. To make up these losses or to make them more to∣lerable, the Pope omitted no manner of good Office or kindness to the Citizens. At this time Michael Son of Theophilus Emperor of Constan∣tinople sent Embassadors with Presents to Rome, to visit the Apostolick Sea and his Holiness. The Presents were a large Paten and Chalice of Gold with precious stones of great value. This was that Michael, who having taken Basilius to be his Partner in the Empire, was murdered by him, that he might reign alone. His Embassadors were kindly recei∣ved and sent home with Presents. Nicolas being earnestly intent upon the Conservation of the Pontifical Dignity, deprived John Arch Bishop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to obey a Citation from the Apostolic Chair to answer some accusations. Whereupon he goes to Pavia, and pro∣cures of the Emperor Lewis commendatory Letters to the Pope, and to his Embassadors, that they should get leave that Arch-bishop John

should have a safe conduct to come to Rome and plead his own Cause, which the Pope readily granted: And John in a great Convention of Prelates being allow'd liberty of Speech, onely confess'd himself guilty, and beg'd pardon of the Pope and of all that were present. By which Confession and the Intercession of the Auditors the Pope was persuaded to receive him into favour upon these Conditions; That he should 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Error before the Synod; that he should promise to come to Rome once a year, if possible; that he should not be capable of conse∣crating any Bishop in Romagna, however canonically elected, without leave first obtain'd from the Sea Apostolick; and that he should not hinder any of those Bishops from coming to Rome as often as they pleas∣ed; that he should not introduce any exaction, custom or usage con∣trary to the sacred Canons; and lastly, that under the penalty of Ana∣thema he should not alter or meddle with the treasure of holy Church without the consent of the Pope, nor should without the same allow∣ance receive any thing secular. These holy Institutions were so highly approved by the whole Synod, that thrice they all shouted,

Righte∣ous is the judgment of the supreme Prelate, just is the decree of the Universal Bishop; All Christians agree to this wholsom Institution. We all say, think and judg the same thing.

Then John in the sight of them all took his Oath and gave it under his hand, that he would observe the Articles. Thus the Convocation was dissolved and John return'd to Ravenna. The Pope having overcome this trouble rebuilt the Church of our Lady (then call'd the Old, afterwards the New Church) and adorned it with excellent Paintings. He by Letters and good Admonitions converted the King of Bulgaria to the Chri∣stian Faith with all his Realm, to whom he sent Bishops and Priests to confirm the young 〈◊〉〈◊〉, driving out Photinus who had craftily disseminated erroneous Opinions among them. He procured a Peace between Lewis the Emperor and Andalisio Duke of Benevent and repel∣led the Saracens who had made an Incursion as far as the same Be∣nevent. Lastly, with the consent of the Emperor he decreed that no Emperor or other Lay-man should thrust himself into any Convoca∣tion of the Clergy, except the debate was concerning matters of Faith, and then his Opinion was that they might reasonably be present. 'Tis said, that at this time S. Cyril brought the body of S. Clement from the Chersonese in Pontus to Rome, and plac'd it in the Church now called S. Clement's, where a little while after, himself also was buried. Nicolas now, who was a great exemplar of all the Virtues one man could be endued with, died the seventh year, ninth month, and thirteenth day of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and was buried according to his last Will in S. Peter's Church porch. Some Authors say that the Sea was then va∣cant eight years, seven months, and nine days.

HADRIAN II.

HADRIAN the second, a Roman, Son of Talarus a Bishop, was a familiar friend of Pope Sergius, who having once given him forty Julio's, when he came home he gave them to his Steward to give to the Beggers and poor strangers that were at his door; which the Steward going to do, saw the number was so great, that 'twould not serve a quarter of them, and so he return'd and told Hadrian: Who hereupon takes the money and coming to the poor folks gave every one three Julio's and reserv'd to himself as many for his own use; at which Miracle the Steward being astonish'd,

Dost thou see (says Hadrian) how good and bountiful the Lord is to those that are liberal and charitable to the Poor?

By this and other Virtues he grew into so high estimation with all men, that when the Consultation was held for making a new Pope, they unanimously elected him, and brought him against his will from the Church of S. Mary ad Proesepe to the Lateran, and immediately created him Pope, nor regarding the consent of any person in a proceeding so tumultuary: which gave great offence to the Embassadors of the Emperor who came on purpose upon this occasion, but could not (as they ought) interpose the Imperial Authority in this Election. But satisfaction was made to them by re∣monstrating that it was impossible in so great a tumult to moderate the violent inclinations of the multitude; they were desired therefore to concur with the Clergy and People and according to custom to congratu∣late as Pope this excellent man whom they had chosen; This at last the Embassadors did, though they saw plainly, that the Clergy and People did arrogate to themselves the full power of creating a Pope, without expecting the consent of any Temporal Prince; and this perhaps in order to enlarge the Liberties of holy Church by making it a Custom. Soon after arriv'd Letters from Lewis highly applauding this action of the Romans, and commending them that they had proceeded so reli∣giously and sincerely in this Affair; without waiting for the approba∣tion of any one, whose ignorance of the fitness of the Canditates might render them incompetent Judges in the case.

For how (said he) can it be, that one that is a Foreiner and a Stranger should be able in another Countrey to distinguish who is most worthy? To the Citizens therefore does it properly belong and to those who have had familiarity with, and knowledg of the Competitors.

Hadrian then being made Pope, took diligent care of all matters relating to Religion, and by word, example and authority both of himself and his Predeces∣sors exhorted all men to good and holy lives, particularly he shew'd himself a strenuous desender of those that had been oppressed by Inju∣stice and the power of great men. He caused a Council to be called at Constantinople, where Photius a seditious person was deposed and Ig∣natius restor'd who had been wrongfully turn'd out before. In this Council a long debate was held, whether the Bulgarians (whose Embas∣sadors were present) should be subject to the Roman or Constantinopo∣litan

Sea; And by the favour of the Emperor Basilius they were ad∣judged to the Sea of Rome, whereupon the Bulgarians making their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Hadrian, that some man of good life and ability might be sent into their Countrey, by whose authority and example they might be retain'd in the Christian Faith, he sent three most religious men with plenary power to settle the Churches there as they should see fit. They were Sylvester the Sub-deacon, Leopardus of Ancona, and Dominic of Trevisa, who soon composed the whole Affair to the Popes mind; though 'twas not long ere the Bulgarians corrupted with gifts and promises by the Constantinopolitans, expel'd the Latin Priests and receiv'd the Greeks; and this Sedition gave occasion to many quarrels betwixt the Greeks and Latins. Hadrian still opposing himself to all the Enemies of the Church as much as was possible, when he was about to anoint Charles Emperor in the room of Lewis now deceased, died himself in the fifth year, ninth month and twelfth day of his Popedom. A little before his death it rain'd bloud for three days together at Brescia, and France was miser∣ably wasted with Locusts; both certain presages of his much lamented death.

JOHN IX.

JOHN the ninth, a Roman, Son of Gundo, as soon as he was made Pope, declared Charles (surnamed the Bald, who came to Rome for that purpose) Emperor, which so enraged the Sons of his elder Brother Lewis King of Germany (Charles surnam'd the Gross and Caroloman) that levying an Army, they invade Italy, resolving to deprive their Uncle of his Crown and Life. Charles hereupon makes haste towards Verona with his forces, intending to cut off the passage of his Nephews by Trent, but was taken ill at Mantua and there poisoned (as 'twas thought) by one Zedechias a Jew, whom he made use of for a Physician. Upon this news Pope John used his utmost endeavour, that Charles his Son Lewis (surnamed the Stamme∣rer) King of France might be made Emperor; but the great men of Rome opposed it, desiring rather that Charles III. King of Germany might succeed, who with his Brother Caroloman had now over-run a great part of Italy. So great was the Sedition, that though many favour'd Lewis, yet they took the Pope and clap'd him in prison. But by the help of some Friends he soon made his escape into France to Lewis, where he slaid a year, anointed him King, and ended some Controversies depend∣ing between the Ecclesiastics. For Gibertus Bishop of Nismes had by force turn'd Leo an Abbot out of his Monastery. This Monastery was dedicated to S. Peter and in it lay buried the body of S. Giles, it is si∣tuate in a place call'd Flaviano, from a Valley of that name given to S. Giles by a certain King nam'd Flavius, and he built there a Mona∣stery to the honour of SS. Peter and Paul. The Pope in the presence of many Bishops and Judges heard the Cause, and adjudg'd the Monastery to Leo. This was done at Arles, from whence John departing with the approbation of Lewis he held a Council at Troyes, where he made

several Decrees about religious affairs, and appointed a Bishop for the Flemings, who having left their Woods and fastnesses now betook them∣selves to an orderly way of living. But Italy all this while being har∣rass'd by the Saracens, who had taken and plundered the Monastery of Monte-Cassino, John was call'd home to Rome, and with the help of some Christian Princes drave the greatest part of them out of Italy and Sici∣ly: and at last that he might live the more quietly in the City, he plac'd the Imperial Crown on the head of Charles III. who quickly after marching against the Normans then infesting the borders of France and Lorain, defeated them so, that their King Rothifredus was forc'd to sue for peace and to become a Christian, the Emperour himself being his Godfather and taking him into favour. This writes Anastasius the Ro∣man Library-keeper, who was then highly in vogue, being so skilful in both Tongues, that by the persuasion of the Emperor Charles he translated out of Greek into elegant Latin the seventh General Council and Dionysius the Areopagite's Book de Hierarchiâ, with the lives of several Saints. Some say, that this Charles built many Monasteries and was liberal to the Church; but 'tis certain that it was his particular commendation, that he put many learned men upon writing, for Milo a Monk of S. Amand wrote the Life of that Saint very exactly, and Jo∣annes Scotus did very solidly and acutely handle many points of our Religion: nor was our Pope John without desert in the same way, ha∣ving while he was Deacon excellently composed the Life of Gregory I. in four Books. When he had sate ten years and two days he died and was buried in S. Peter's Church.

MARTIN II.

MARTIN the second, a Frenchman, Son of Palumbus, suc∣ceeded John. Some perhaps deceiv'd by the likeness of the names call him Marinus. This Martin (the story of whose Life is so short because of the small time he held the Chair) was Pope at the time when the Sons of Basilius, Leo and Alexander, were Emperors in the East, and Charles III. in the West, who we told you, was crowned by John VIII. and who broke the forces of the Nor∣mans infesting France in so many Battels, that he forced them to sub∣mit to him and receive the Christian Faith. Some write, that 'twas this Martin that with his tricks (of which somewhat will be said in the Life of Formosus) did so plague Pope John with Seditions, as to get him thrown into prison and force him to fly. But having by ill means gotten the Popedom, he soon died, having sate but one year and five days, and in that time doing nothing remarkable, either because his time was short, or because no occasion offered it self from whence he could acquire repute; except we may suppose it to be the Will of God, that those who attain to Power by indirect means should lose that true glory, which is the chief aim of every good Prince.

HADRIAN III.

HADRIAN the third, a Roman, Son of Benedict, was a man of so great a Spirit, that immediately upon his entrance on the Popedom, An. Dom. 895. he proposed to the Senate and People, that a Law should pass, that no regard should hereafter be given to the Authority of the Emperor in the creation of any Pope, but that the Election of the Clergy and People should be free; this Institution was rather attempted than begun before by Nicolas I. as was said; but I be∣lieve Hadrian took now the opportunity, when the Emperor Charles was march'd with his Army out of Italy against the Rebellious Normans. He went with a design utterly to extirpate that unquiet people; but perceiving that would be difficult, and not to be done without great slaughter of his own men, he granted them that part of Prance to live in, which lies beyond the River Seine, and is still call'd from the name of the people, Normandy. They were bound to pay a yearly tribute to the Crown of France, to mind them that they stood possess'd of the Countrey, not by their own power, but by the bounty of the Emperor Charles. At this time William surnam'd the Godly, Duke of Aquitain and Earl of Auvergne, not having any Heirs male, began magnificently to build the Monastery of Clugny in his Fathers Mannor in a Village of Burgundy, and made Berno Abbot of the place, having set out an In∣come for the maintenance of the Monks: But he dying left it unfinish'd, having constituted Ebbo Earl of Poictou his Heir, who should take care according to his Last Will of the whole matter. And now Hadrian, of whom, for his courage and haughty Spirit, the Clergy and People of Rome had conceived so great hopes, died in the first year and second month of his Popedom, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, with the general lamentation of the People for the unseasonable loss of such a Father.

STEPHEN V.

STEPHEN the fifth, a Roman, Son of one Hadrian of the Via lata, was made Pope at the time when the Normans assist∣ed by the Danes contrary to their Treaties had well-nigh over∣run all France. For fear of these Invaders the body of S. Martin was carried from Tours to Auxerre, and plac'd in the Church of S. German; which begot a feud among the Monks, who could not agree by the name of which of the two Saints the Church should be call'd; to solve this doubt, they took this way; They set a Leper in the midst between the two Saints Bodies, who grew whole onely on that side which was to∣wards S. Martin, and then turning the other side towards him, he was quite healed. This Miracle determin'd the Controversie, which S. Ger∣man is thought to have suffered his new Guest to perform, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it should

be thought that the Body had lost any of its Sanctity by being transla∣ted. Authors say, that during this Popes time Charles the Gross, who had been Emperor twelve years was deposed by his Nobles for his sloth and dulness, and Arnulphus his Nephew was set up in his stead, who was the seventh Emperor from Charles the Great. This troublesom state of things tempted the Huns a Scythian Nation (according to Vincentius and Martinus) to make a descent into Tannonia, where joyning their Brother-Tribe, the Hungari, they possess'd themselves of the Countrey driving thence the Gepidi and Avares: and from hence marching with their forces into Germany, they pierc'd as far as Burgundy, destroying all with fire and sword. Stephen in this confusion of Affairs, was yet not a little comforted with the sanctity of Luithprandus Deacon of Pavia, Wal∣drad of Bavaria, and Bernard of Picardy, by whose lives and conversation the Christian Religion got so great Reverence that many Monasteries and Churches were sumptuously built throughout France. In the sixth year and eleventh day of his Papacy, he died, and the Sea was vacant five days.

FORMOSUS.

FORMOSUS Bishop of Porto succeeded Stephen, and in the beginning of his Pontificate adorned S. Peter's Church with some slight Paintings. This Formosus had formerly for fear of Pope John, left his Bishoprick and fled to France; and denying to re∣turn when he was recall'd, he was anathematized, and then coming to Rome he was depriv'd of all his Preferments Ecclesiastical, and put on profane manners with his secular habit. Some think the reason that Formosus was thus persecuted was for that he was a Party, if not Ring∣leader of the Faction that put John into Prison. However Formosus was so enraged at this hard usage, that he swore he would never return either to Rome or to his Bishoprick; but Pope Martin, who succeeded John, absolv'd him from his Oath, and restor'd him to his Countrey and to his former Dignity, whence not long after he came to the Popedom, rather by bribery than for the sake of any good that was in him, many men op∣posing his Election. Arnulphus now, the seventh Emperor from Charles the Great, as we said before, marching valiantly against the still rebel∣lious Normans gave them several Overthrows, but was too much puffed up with his success and became so intolerably imperious to all men, espe∣cially to the Clergy, that it pleased God, he died soon after of the lousie Disease. In whose room Lewis was put up for Emperor, but we read not that he was ever Crowned, for (as Martinus writes) Berengarius Duke of Friuli descended of the old Kings of Lombardy, renewing his claim to the Kingdom of his Ancestors, and bringing his pretensions to the decision of War, though at first he was overcome by Lewis, yet gi∣ving him Battel again at Verona, Lewis was vanquished and with great slaughter of his men being taken Prisoner had his eyes put out. And thus the Empire which the Franks had enjoy'd almost 100 years, was trans∣ferred to the Lombards, Constantine the Son of Leo being Emperor of the

East. I know not how it fell out, that at this same time that the Em∣perors shewed so little Courage, the Popes too were as greatly want∣ing in Virtue and Integrity, which render'd those times very miserable, Subjects being very apt (as Plato says) to follow the Examples of their Princes. I return to Formosus, whose times (left they should have been the most unhappy that ever were) were honour'd with the Learning and good Life of Remigius of Auxerre, who wrote divers Commenta∣ries, especially upon the Gospel of S. Matthew and S. Paul's Epistles. Some say indeed, that Author was not the person of whom I speak, but Remigius of Rhemes; however that be, 'tis certain they were both very learned men. Formosus died in the fifth year and sixth month of his Pontificate, and the Sea was vacant two days.

BONIFACE VI.

BONIFACE the sixth, a Tuscan, was created Pope in the room of the deceased Formosus, but how long he continued in the Papacy is a great question, for some Writers say longer, others say shorter. I am of opinion with the most, that he sate but twenty six days, and that which makes me think so is, that Histo∣rians make little or no mention at all of him; and how can it be, that (as some say) he should sit twelve years in the Chair of S. Peter, and yet his Reign be past over unregarded? I have plac'd him therefore in the Catalogue of Popes, not for any thing done by him, for he did no∣thing (indeed what could be expected to be done in so short a time?) but because he was regularly and canonically elected Pope. He died, as I said before, in the 26. day of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Peter's Church.

STEPHEN VI.

STEPHEN the sixth, a Roman, Bishop of Anagni being made Pope, persecuted the memory of Formosus with so much spite, that he abrogated his Decrees and rescinded all he had done, though 'tis said that 'twas Formosus that conferred the Bishoprick of Anagni upon him. But this I take to be the effect of his Ambition; the Clergy being come to that pass, that they were so far from needing compulsion, as formerly, to take upon them the Pontificate, that now they sought it with bribery; and hence it was that Stephen, because Formosus had hindred him before of this desired Dignity, exercised his rage even upon his dead body; for Martin the Historian says, he hated him to that degree, that in a Council which he held, he ordered 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Body of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be drag'd out of the Grave, to be strip'd of his Pontifical habit and put into that of a Lay-man, and then to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 among secular persons, having first cut off those two Fingers of his right Hand, which are principally used by Priests in Consecration, and thrown them into the Tiber, because contrary to his Oath, as he said, he had

return'd to Rome and exercised his Sacerdotal Function, from which Pope John had legally degraded him. This prov'd a great Controversie and of very ill example; for the succeeding Popes made it almost a constant Custom either to break or abrogate the Acts of their Predecessors, which was certainly far different from the practice of any of those good Popes whose Lives we have written. In our own time Paul II. a Venetian had like to have taken upon him the name of Formosus, (which would have been agreeable enough to him, being a proper man and of a ve∣nerable aspect) but that the Cardinals remembring this story dissuaded him, lest that should happen to him after his Death, which did to this Formosus; but Paul was hardly wrought upon, as thinking nothing but this Name to be wanting to his Felicity. Mean time the Emperor of Constantinople taking occasion from the sloth of the Popes, sends one Symbaticus, a Nobleman, his Sword-bearer with an Army into Italy, who after a Siege of three months takes Beneventum, after it had been in the possession of the Lombards 330 years; but three years after Guy of Lombardy retook it and drove out the Greeks, and so it fell to the Lombards again. But to return to Stephen; he died in the first year and third month of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the Sea was vacant three days after his death.

ROMANUS.

ROMANUS a Roman, as soon as he was got into the Pon∣tificate, disavowed and rescinded all the Acts and Decrees of Stephen. And indeed these * 1.183 Popelings studied nothing else but to extinguish the memory and honour of their Predeces∣sors, than which nothing is more mischievous or a more certain sign of a narrow Soul; for they that trust to such tricks as these are onely such as wanting all manner of Virtue endeavour to rob the well-deser∣ving of that Fame which themselves can never attain to. Indeed you shall never find any man envying the good name of another, but one that being obnoxious to all manner of reproach is hopeless of rendring his own name honourable to Posterity. Such men as these maliciously, falsly and craftily backbite, slander and find 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with those that have deserv'd well of Mankind, like useless and cowardly Dogs that dare not seize a wild 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but will venture to snap at them when they are fast chain'd. I was oblig'd however at least to mention this Pope Ro∣manus, because he obtain'd S. Peter's Chair after the ordinary manner, in which after he had sate three months he died.

THEODORUS II.

THEODORE the second, a Roman, follow'd the steps of these Mutineers, for he restor'd the Decrees of Formosus and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Friends. Arnulphus (according to some Writers) still rul'd in Italy, and in France Charles the Simple, Constantine

the Son of Leo being Emperor of the East, at which time the Saracens invading Apulia, possess'd themselves of Mount S. Angelo, and took abun∣dance of Men and Cattel; but the Italians hastily got together an Army, set upon them and recovered all with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 slaughter of the Enemies. While Affairs went thus in Italy, William Earl of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, surnamed Sector-ferri, of the linage of Charles the Bald, ordered the Reliques which had been taken from the Chartreux Fryers at the time of the Norman Invasion to be restor'd, for now that the Normans were quieted, he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 there would be some uproar about them, if they were not restor'd. Who the Normans were is not on all hands agreed: but they are said to have come into France from Norway. Theodorus in the 20th day of his Papacy died, leaving through the shortness of his time nothing memorable of himself.

JOHN X.

JOHN the tenth, a Roman, was next created Pope, and immediately reasserted the cause of Formosus, a great part of the People of Rome being against it, who raised such a tumult, that it wanted little of a Battel. He therefore re∣mov'd to Ravenna, where calling a Synod of seventy four Bishops, he damns all that Stephen had done and restores the Decrees of Formo∣sus, declaring it irregularly done of Stephen to re-ordain those on whom Formosus had conferred Holy Orders. These Popes by their constant inobservance of all Apostolical Practices were the occasions (in my Opinion) of these turmoils, especially joyning with that the Cowardize and Negligence of the Princes of Christendom; whose in∣terest it was that the Ship of S. Peter should labour with Tempests, that so the Master being unable to animadvert upon them, might not throw them like naughty Mariners overboard. Arnulphus was immers'd in pleasures and Charles King of France was truly worthy of his Surname of Simple or rather Blockhead. So that the Hungari a fierce and wild people tempted by this prospect of things, with a formidable Army invade first Italy, then Germany and France, without any considerable resistance, con∣suming all with fire and sword, and sparing no Sex or Age wherever they march'd. The Moors too invaded Calabria, of a great part whereof they possess'd themselves, but whilst they besieg'd Cosenza, their King was killed by Thunder from Heaven, whereupon they were dispersed and re∣turn'd home. Thus God himself punish'd with his own hand the Ene∣mies of the name of Christ out of pity to his people who were miserably forsaken by the Princes of the Earth, which if he had not done, the name of Italy and the Holy Church had been no more, Such sluggish and sorry fellows were the Potentates of those times. John died after he had been Pope two years and fifteen days, leaving nothing behind him worthy notice, but that he renew'd some old quarrels which had been almost forgotten.

BENEDICT IV.

BENEDICT the fourth, a Roman, for his good nature and mildness was made Pope, but nothing was done in his time worthy of any great commendation. In his Age it happen'd, as to others it does sometimes, that a strange negligence of all manner of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had possess'd mankind, no incitements being applied by which the minds of men should be stir'd up to Actions that are praise∣worthy, which yet are never wanting under good Princes or well con∣stituted Governments. At this time (as I said before) Lewis the Son of Arnulphus endeavouring to recover his Fathers Empire was taken and kill'd at Verona by Berengarius; and then the posterity of Charles the Great first lost their Titles to France and the Empire of Germany. So true it is that which Salust says, Every rising hath its setting and every in∣crease its wane. The Empire which had arrived to so great a height lost its splendor by the sluggishness of the great men and people of Rome, when they once grew remiss in the exercises of Virtue, and emasculated their bodies with Luxury and with studied softnesses. And this we may say, was the case of the Papacy, for at first the Pontifical Dignity (with∣out Wealth and among Enemies and furious Persecutors of Christianity) was illustrious with a holiness and learning not to be attain'd without great pains and a consummate Virtue; but now the Church of God was grown wanton with its Riches, and the Clergy quitted severity of man∣ners for lasciviousness; so that there being no Prince to punish their ex∣cesses, such a Licentiousness of sinning obtain'd in the World as brought forth these Monsters, these Prodigies of wickedness by whom the Chair of S. Peter was rather seiz'd than rightfully possess'd. Yet this may be said for Benedict, that in this debauch'd Age he carried himself with gravity and constancy, and died in the third year and fourth month of his Pontificate, after which the Sea was vacant six days.

LEO V.

LEO the fifth, whose native Countrey Historians mention not, succeeded him, but was soon taken and thrown into Prison by one Christopher a Chaplain of his own, who aspir'd to the Pope∣dom, which was not done without great tumults and the loss of many mens lives. How lightly the Papal Authority was now esteem'd (by fault of former Popes) may be seen in this, that a private person should in a moment be able to seize so great a Dignity. But that saying is certainly true, that great places receive more honour than they confer upon the persons that supply them, as appears in the Roman Censorship, which at first was slighted as a mean Office, but when several of the Nobility had once condescended to execute it, the Office became so ho∣nourable, that the Nobleman who had not once in his life been Censor

was look'd upon as very unfortunate. Leo had sate but forty days when Christopher got into the Chair, which Indignity he laid so to heart, that in a little while after he died for grief, deeply resenting it that he should be rob'd of his Dignity by one that had eat of his bread; according to that of Theocritus, Nurse up a Wolf, and he'l devour you.

CHRISTOPHER.

CHRISTOPHER, whose Countrey and Family is, (be∣cause of the meanness of his extraction) not known, having got the Popedom by ill means lost it as ill; for after seven months he was justly deposed and forc'd to take on him a Monastic life, the onely refuge of men in trouble, for at that time Clergy-men that had deserv'd ill were as it were banish'd into Monasteries by way of punishment. There are those that say, Christopher was deposed in the Reign of Lewis III. while others ascribe him to the times of Berengarius, who (we told you) was from Duke of Friuli created Emperor, as de∣scending from the Longobardian Kings of Italy, and as being the onely man in whom for his valour and nobility they could place any hopes of seeing the honour of the Empire retriev'd. And that I should suppose Berengarius to have reign'd at this time I am persuaded by considering the short lives of the Popes before-going (who, as Monsters, were soon snatch'd away by a divine Power) and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 length of the Reign of that Emperor, who having vanquish'd Guido Duke of Spoleto and slain Am∣brose Count of Bergomo, who were his first Adversaries, was crown'd Emperor by Formosus, and liv'd nine years after. What became of Christopher after his being deposed, shall be spoken in the Life of Sergius.

SERGIUS III.

SERGIUS the third, a Roman, Son of Benedict, entring up∣on the Pontificate, re edified the Lateran Church which was then ruined, and taking Christopher out of his Monastery, put him in Prison; and then setling his Affairs he took a Journey to France; after his return from whence, being now strengthen'd with the favour and friendship of the French King Lotharius, he totally abo∣lish'd all that Pope Formosus had done before, so that Priests who had been by him admitted to Holy Orders were forc'd to take new Ordi∣nation. Nor was he content with thus dishonouring the dead Pope, but he drags his Carcase again out of the Grave, beheads it as if it had been alive, and then throws it into the Tiber, as unworthy the honour of humane Burial. 'Tis said that some Fishermen finding his Body as they were fishing brought it to S. Peter's Church, and while the Funeral Rites were performing, the Images of the Saints which stood in the Church bow'd in veneration of his Body, which gave

them occasion to believe, that Formosus was not justly prosecuted with so great ignominy. But whether the Fishermen did thus or no, is a great question: especially it is not likely to have been done in Sergius's life∣time, who was a sierce Persecutor of the favourers of Formosus, because he had hindered him before of obtaining the Pontificate. And now, Reader, pray observe how very much these Popes had degenerated from their Predecessors: they, good men, refused this dignity when it was freely offered them, chusing rather to spend their time in Study and in Prayer: these on the contrary, sought the Papacy with ambition and bribery; and when they were got in, slighting the Worship of God, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 animosities among themselves with the violence of the fiercest Ty∣rants; to the end that when no one should be left to animadvert upon their Vices, they might the more securely immerse themselves in plea∣sures. 'Tis my opinion, that Sergius acted thus, by the instigation of Lotharius, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 'twas by Formosus's means that the Empire was trans∣lated from the French to the Lombards. Sergius leading his life after this rate died in the seventh year, fourth month and sixteenth day of his Papacy, several fiery Apparitions and blazing Stars with unusual moti∣ons having been seen in the Heavens a little before. Soon after the Hungari invaded Italy with an Army, and several defeats were on both sides given and taken.

ANASTASIUS III.

ANASTASIUS the third, a Roman, came to the Chair at the time when Landulphus Prince of Benevent fought a fierce Battel with the Greeks and defeated them in Apulia. For Patricius General of Leo Emperor of Constantinople had invaded Italy, and threatned a general ruin, if they did not immediate∣ly acknowledg Subjection to Leo: but (as was said) by the valour of Landulphus his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and his rage came to nothing, though Berenga∣rius also was bringing an Army together to meet him; but they made rather a terrible shew than were truly of force. But Anastasius not act∣ing any thing worth mention, died after he had been Pope two years and was buried in S. Peter's Church. This Pope we may commend in this one instance, that he did not persecute with ignominy and scandal the memory of any of his Predecessors; for he lived quietly and soberly, and had nothing chargeable upon him that was blame-worthy.

LANDUS.

LANDUS, a Roman, succeeded Anastasius; but his life was so obscure, that some do not reckon him for a Pope, especially Vin∣centius the Historian. But Martin, and Cusentinus are of ano∣ther mind, together with Gothifredus who writes, that this Lan∣dus 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 his Authority hindred a Battel between Berengarius and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Son of Count Guido; though others say, that Rodulphus

overcame Berengarius near Verona, and enjoy'd the Empire three years. There was indeed at this time a great contention for the Empire be∣tween the Italians, Germans and French, which was the cause of many cruel Wars which were not ended without great destruction of men and mischief to each Countrey. The Romans and Italians labour'd might and main to preserve the Empire in their own Countrey against the Power of those barbarous people, but they wanted some man that could lead them on in so great an Enterprise; for those noble Spirits, who had rendred the name of Italy famous through the World, were now not onely extinct, but even those virtuous Inclinations were quite sti∣sled which gave life to such glorious actions. Landus died in the sixth month and twenty first day of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Pe∣ters's Church.

JOHN XI.

JOHN the eleventh, a Roman, natural Son to Pope Sergius, in the year 909. succeeded. He was before Arch-bishop of Ravenna and had been deposed by the people in a Tumult; but upon the death of Landus, he obtain'd the Papal Chair, and shew'd more of the Spirit of a Soldier than of a Clergy-man. In∣deed the Church and all Italy had then need of such a Pope: For the Greeks (as we said before) being vanquish'd by Landulphus, had call'd the Saracens into Italy, who marching through Calabria and Apulia in∣to Lucaia and Campania threaten'd sudden destruction to the City of Rome. The nearness of the danger alarm'd Pope John, who taking Al∣bericus Marquess of Tuscany to his assistance, musters up an Army, fights the Saracens and gets the better, and beats them out of the territories of the City; but not looking upon his Victory as considerable, except he follow'd the pursuit, he attaques them at Minturnoe upon the shore of the River Garigliano, and conquers them with so great a slaughter, that they resolv'd to leave Italy, onely burning first all those places on that shore which were in their hands. But they alter'd their minds af∣terward and fortifying Mount Gargano they harass'd the Countrey there∣about with their Incursions. Mean while John taking all the honour of this action to himself makes his entrance into Rome after the manner of a Triumph, which gave so great distast to Albericus, that a Tumult arose upon it, in which Albericus was repulsed and flying to Orta, for∣tified the Town and Castle, and enticed the Hungari into Italy, who brought more destruction and ruin upon the Countrey than the Sara∣cens had done before, for they carried away the Youth of both Sexes, killing all that were stricken in years; nor did they spare the very Tus∣cans, for whose indemnity Albericus had agreed in the Treaty with them; nay they were more cruel to them than to other Italians, for they burnt and demolish'd all the Towns they had possess'd. 'Tis my Opi∣nion, that Berengarius (who then held Lombardy onely) gave them li∣berty of passage into Tuscany, upon condition they march'd quietly through his Countrey without hurting his Subjects. But the Hungari

having once tasted the sweet Spoils of Italy, did frequently visit it af∣terward; which Calamities so much enraged the Romans, that not be∣ing able to wreak their spite upon the Enemy who was too mighty and fierce for them, they took Albericus and beheaded him. John also in a Mutiny of the Soldiers, was by the followers of Count Guido taken and put in Prison. In his room another John was put up; but because he seiz'd the Chair by force and was soon deposed, he de∣serves not to be among the Popes.

LEO VI.

LEO the sixth, a Roman, was canonically elected Pope, acted nothing tyrannically in his whole life, but liv'd soberly and modestly, taking care of Religion as far as an Age of so cor∣rupt manners would bear. For he made it his endeavour to quiet the minds of the Citizens, (who through the rashness and folly of former Popes were inclining to Tumults) to compose the Affairs of Italy, to make Peace with forein Enemies and to drive the Barbarians from the skirts of his Countrey, than which nothing could be done to better purpose or more commendably in so short a time; for in the seventh month and fifteenth day of his Pontificate he died, and was buried in S. Peters's Church, to the great grief of the Citizens of Rome.

STEPHEN VII.

STEPHEN the seventh, a Roman, (according to some Au∣thors) came to be Pope at the time when the Hungari who were over-running Germany and Saxony were by Henry King of Germany overcome with a great slaughter near Merspurg. 'Tis said also that at this time Rodulphus King of Burgundy made his descent into Italy with a great Army against Berengarius II. who by the treachery of his own men was driven out of his Kingdom and fled to the Hun∣garians for refuge, who taking up Arms in his cause, the third year after his expulsion, under the conduct of one Salardus invade Italy with huge forces and take Pavia by storm, destroying the greatest part of it with fire and sword. The Italians hereupon finding Rodulphus to want strength and courage, call in Hugh Count of Arles. It was not without contention that Rodulphus gave place to him, but his Ene∣mies bearing hard upon him, he retreated into Burgundy. After this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 finding occasion to mistrust those Persons that call'd him in, ba∣nish'd many of them; who fled to Arnoldus Duke of Bavaria, a man 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Rule, and persuade him to make War upon Italy. He passes the Alpes and is immediately receiv'd within the Walls of Verona by the Citizens with great kindness and friendship, but Hugh marching a∣gainst him, beats him in a pitch'd Battel and soon re-takes Verona. Mean while Berengarius dies in Bavaria, or as others say, in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Berengarius III. Grand-son of Berengarius I. by his Daughter, comes

into Italy and in the year 935. gets the Empire. Some there are that ascribe these Actions I have mention'd, to the time of this Pope; but I would rather assign them to some of those Popes that preceded and suc∣ceeded; because, though I have set them down in short, yet they must needs require a long time to be brought about. But in so great a diversity of opinions concerning times, I chose rather to place them somewhere than utterly to omit things which were certainly once done, for the uncertainty of Writers. For the sake of Posterity we would not be so superstitious as to disbelieve that which various Authors have here or there thought good to record. To the times of this Pope may justly also be ascribed S. Ugibert a Nobleman of Lorain, who in a short time at his own charge built the Monastery of Gemblours after a mag∣nificent manner. At this time also 'tis said that Spireneus Duke of Bo∣hemia first received the Christian faith. Those that were then call'd Dukes being now, upon the encrease of their wealth and strength, en∣titled Kings of Bohemia. But Stephen having led a peaceable and a re∣ligious life died in the second year, first month and twelfth day of his Popedom, and was buried in S. Peter's Church.

JOHN XII.

JOHN the twelfth, a Roman, Son (as some say) of Pope Sergius, came to be Pope when a Fountain at Genoa streamed blood in great quantities (as Vincentius and Martinus relate) a sure presage of the ensuing Calamities; for soon after Genoa was taken and sack'd by the Saracens who came from Afric, and the Hungarians entring Italy utterly destroy'd all things far and near: but as they passed laden with Prey by the Confines of Sulmona, the people of Tagliacozzo on a sudden taking Arms, they were routed by them and lost their lives and plunder together. Racherius, who of a Monk had been made Bishop of Verona, was now a great Writer, but was banish'd to Pavia by King Hugh, because he inveigh'd against his manner of living with too great freedom. John died after he had been Pope four years, ten months and fifteen days. The Sea was vacant twelve days.

LEO VII.

LEO the seventh, a Roman, was created Pope during the reigns of Hugh and Lotharius in Italy, but did nothing worthy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 mentioning. But his time was made famous by the Lives of Spireneus (according to Martinus) Duke of Bohemia a man of signal Devotion and Justice; and of his Son Wenceslaus who de∣generated not at all from his Father, killed by his Brother 〈◊〉〈◊〉 who desired to reign. This Wenceslaus was afterwards justly canonized for a Saint, upon proof made of the holiness of his Life and of Miracles wrought by him both while he liv'd and after his death. Leo after he had sate three years, six months and ten days, died and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The Sea was then vacant 3 days.

STEPHEN VIII.

STEPHEN the eighth, a German, coming to the Papacy was so molested by the Romans with Factions, that he could do nothing remarkable; nay, (as Martinus relates) they wounded him so foully in one Tumult that he was a∣sham'd to appear abroad: King Hugh prepared to avenge his quarrel but died in the mean time, to whom succeeded his Son Lo∣tharius, but he made no mention of the matter, either because he had a kindness for the Citizens of Rome, or because his Reign was short, for he out-liv'd his Father but two years. Otho King of Germany did now undertake to revenge the murther of Winceslaus King of Bohemia upon Boleslaus his Brother who had killed him, and marching against him, after several Battels won and lost at last took him Captive. Ste∣phen died when he had been Pope three years four months and twelve days. The Sea was vacant ten days.

MARTIN III.

MARTIN the third, a Roman, imitated the meekness and peaceable carriage of Stephen, for being made Pope he laid aside thoughts of War, and employ'd his mind in reli∣gious matters, repairing Churches that were ready to fall with age, and relieving the poor with his Charity. Not but that in his time Europe was very much torn with cruel Wars: For Otho attempting to enter Italy against the will of Lotharius much blood was spilt on both sides, but Pope Martin persuaded them to lay down their Arms, because (among other reasons) there was a great famine in the Land, by reason the Trees were felled, the standing Corn trodden down, and even the Husbandmen with their Cattel were in this grievous War taken away. At Constantinople also were great Tumults, the Citizens making their Emperor a Prisoner, and shaving his head, banish'd him to a cer∣tain Island; but soon after Constantine Son of Leo getting the Empire, punish'd these sactious Citizens after the same shameful manner and ba∣nish'd them to the same Island. Martin died in the third year, sixth month and tenth day of his Popedom and was buried in S. Peter's Church; the Roman Sea was vacant twelve days.

AGAPETUS. II.

AGAPETUS the second, a Roman, was created Pope at a time when Italy was full of Warlike hurly-burly; for the Hun∣garians having invaded Italy with a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Force had over-run all the Countrey beyond the River Po, Henry Duke of Bavaria takes

up Arms immediately and getting an Army together marches against them, and in two fierce Battels routs them, though not without great damage to the Inhabitants thereabouts, and seizes all the Country from Aquileia to Pavia; from whence yet he soon departed into Austria, when he heard that Berengarius was coming against him with a great Army. Berengarius being therefore now Master of Italy takes to himself the name of Emperor, and calls his Son Albertus King of Italy, casting in∣to Prison Alunda, Lotharius's Brothers Daughter, lest she should lay claim to the City of Pavia which was her Dowry. Pope Agapetus and the great men of Italy, (observing the arrogance of Berengarius and that he made pretensions to every thing without regard to right and justice,) sent for Otho King of Germany into Italy, who entring by the way of Friuli with fifty thousand men quickly dethron'd Berengarius and Albertus and taking Alunda out of Prison, married her, of whom he had a Son, afterwards succeeding him by the name of Otho II. And now Otho leaving Italy, shew'd a great deal of moderation by permitting to Berengarius and his Son the Government of a Province and making Peace between him and the Pope. This Otho assisted Lewis King of France with a great Army against Hugh Earl of Paris, though his Bro∣ther-in-law, who with the help of some of the great men of that Coun∣trey had well-nigh outed him of his Kingdom. But Albertus Son of Berengarius, who then was Governour of Ravenna, aided with some Forces and Ships from Comachio, pirated upon the Merchants of Venice much against the mind of Pope Agapetus; at which the Venetians were so enraged, that they immediately rigg'd out a Navy and took Coma∣chio and burnt it. Whilst these things were doing, Pope Agapetus a harmless man and a great lover of the Church, died in the ninth year seventh month and tenth day of his Pontificate; about the same time that Otho Abbot of Clugny also slept in the Lord; whose Disciple Do maielus is supposed to be, that wonderfully holy man and great resto∣rer of Monastic Discipline.

JOHN XIII.

JOHN the thirteenth, a Roman, by the power of his Father Albericus of the Via lata gets into the Chair. His name was before Octavian; he was one that from his youth up had been debauch'd with all manner of Vice and wickedness; and if he had any time to spare from his lusts, he spent it in Hunting and not in Prayer. The Romans had at this time two Consuls annually and one Prefect, who was a Judg among the Citizens. Out of the People were created twelve Decarchons, who were instead of the Se∣nate; neither were the Romans without some kind of Dominions; for the neighbouring Towns of Tuscany between Orvieto and Todi; and all that lies between the City and Benevent, Naples, Tagliacozzo and Riete, were subject to the City of Rome. What lies beyond was possessed part∣ly by the Greeks and partly by the Saracens. It is not altogether cer∣tain, who then held Marca di Ancona and the Dutchy of Spoleto. In

the City thus free Octavian favour'd by the power of his Father assumes the Papal Dignity, a weight for which his shoulders were very unfit; which gave so great offence that two Cardinals who were nettled at it, sent to Otho, beseeching him to come and deliver the Clergy and the People of Rome out of the hands of Berengarius and this Pope John, otherwise telling him that the Christian Religion and the Empire too would both be ruin'd. Otho was at that time great in the estimation of all people, having (as we said before) conquered Boleslaus King of Bohemia, and routed the Hungarians, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Germany, in three fierce Bat∣tels, taking three of their Princes, who were hanged up by the Germans, against the mind of the Emperor. While Otho was expected, the whole design was betray'd to John, who took both the Cardinals, and cut off the Nose of the one and the hand of the other. This mov'd Otho to hasten his march into Italy, where first he took Berengarius and his Son Albertus Prisoners, and banish'd one to Constantinople, the other into Austria; and soon after entring Rome, he was splendidly received even of John himself, and Crown'd (as some write) Emperor of Germany and Hungary, the Empire being now first translated to the Germans. There are Authors yet that place this to the times of Leo VIII. of whom we shall speak hereafter; whose Opinion is follow'd by Gratian in his Decree; though Ricardus and Cuseulinus disallow not the former: but the Lateran Library-keeper writes that Otho came to Rome in John's time, but says not a word of his Coronation; so perplex'd and con∣fused are the Affairs of those times by the carelesness and neglect of their Writers. Otho however having somewhat setled the State of the City, had some conference in private with John, dissuading him kindly from his naughty way of life and exhorting him to reform; but when he found fair words would not avail, he made use of threats and de∣clar'd for a General Council, convening all the Bishops of Italy to judg of the way of life of this wicked Fellow. The Censures of these good Men he apprehended would be heavy, and therefore fled to Anagni, sculking up and down in by-places like a wild Beast: So that Otho by the persuasion of the Clergy creates Leo, a Roman, a keeper of the Ar∣chives in the Lateran, Pope. But upon the departure of the Emperor, the Kinsmen and Friends of John turn out Leo, and recall him, who within few days after was struck dead (as was thought) from Heaven, lest the Church of God should be ruin'd by so pernicious a Sedition as was then growing on. Some indeed write that this wicked Wretch, or Monster rather, was taken in Adultery and there stabb'd. However this put not an end to the Schism; for the Romans upon the death of John put up Benedict in his room, and were earnest with the Emperor (who was then at Spalato) to confirm their choice. But the Emperor was highly displeased, and not onely denied their request as unjust, but (as shall hereafter be told) compelled them by force of Arms to abrogate Benedict and receive Leo. Many Prodigies are said to have been seen at this present time in Italy; for in a mighty tempest of wind and rain there fell a stone of a wonderful 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Sky; and in the garments of many persons the figure of a bloody Cross ap∣peared miraculously; which portents were look'd upon to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great Slaughters and calamities to the Church. This John who was certainly the most pernicious profligate Fellow of any that preceded him in the

Pontifical Chair, died in the ninth year, third month and fifth day of his Popedom; upon whose death during the Sedition the Sea was vacant twelve days.

BENEDICT V.

BENEDICT the Fifth, a Roman, in the Sedition was of a Deacon made Pope chiefly by the assistance of the kinred and Dependents of John, to whom the Preferment of Leo by Otho gave great disgust. But the Emperor disapproving this Election, flatly the confirmation of it to the Romans who ear∣nestly sought it, and wasting the territories of the City with fire and sword, forced them not onely to turn out, but to yield up Benedict, and submit to Leo, with an Oath not to attempt any alteration in what the Emperor had establish'd in the affair of the Popedom. Matters thus composed in Italy, Otho goes back for Germany, taking Benedict with him, who soon after died at Hapspurg, whither he was banish'd. He held the Papacy six months and five days. The Sea was after vacant thirty days.

LEO VIII.

LEO the Eighth, the Proloscriniary (as I said before) upon the expulsion of John was created Pope by the Clergy and People of Rome. For when John led such an abominable and exorbitant life, that the Romans urg'd the Emperor to depose him and set up another Pope, he answered that the Election be∣long'd to the Clergy and People; and let them chuse a Man they took to be most fit, he would confirm him immediately. Hereupon when they had chosen Leo, and the Emperor had confirm'd him, soon after altering their minds, they deposed him and put up Benedict, which so angred Otho that he compelled them by force of Arms to yield up Be∣nedict and accept of Leo again, who was so teiz'd with the mutinous humour of the Romans, that he transferred the whole power of elect∣ing of Popes from the Clergy and People to the Emperor. But he liv'd not long after, dying in the sixteenth month of his Popedom.

JOHN XIV.

JOHN the Fourteenth, Bishop of Narni, a Roman, Son of John a Bishop, succeeded Leo. But the Romans having got the trick of expelling their Popes, vex'd this Man also with seditions; for having call'd to their assistance Geffrey Lord of Terra de Lavoro, they broke into the Lateran Palace and feiz'd upon John, whom they first cast into the Prison of Castle S. Angelo, and soon after banish'd to Capua; but Geffrey with his onely Son being slain by John Prince of Capua, the Pope return'd straight to Rome in the eleventh month of his Exile. Otho also upon notice of the Pope's distress, together with his Son Otho and a good Army by long journeys came to Rome, and im∣mediately threw the Consuls, the Praetor and the Decarchons into Prison in order to a Trial for their Treason; who being by torture forced to confess, the Consuls were banish'd into Germany, the Decarchons were hang'd up, and Peter the Praetor, the cause and Ring-leader of all the mischief, was several times drag'd most ignominiously and whipt with Rods through the most publick places of the City and then sent Prisoner to Germany. Others say, his Punishment was thus, Being delivered to suffer at the will of the Pope, his Beard was first shav'd off, then he was hang'd by his hair upon the head of the Statue of Constantine's Horse, for the terror of all such ill Men; from whence being taken, he was set upon an Ass with his face backward and his hands tied under his tail and so led through the City, being as he went whipt almost to death with Rods; and then banish'd into Germany. The like severity (for examples sake) was used by the Emperor against Count Geffrey and his Son, who were kill'd (as I said before) by John Prince of Ca∣pua, their carcasses being drag'd out of their Graves and denied Chri∣stian burial. At this time the Selavi, who (when Hadrian III. was Pope, under Sueropylus Prince of Dalmatia had received the Christian Faith, cross'd the Sea into Italy, gave the Saracens a great rout at Monte Gargano and drove them thence; and the Hungarians by their example so broke their remaining force by recovering Cosenza out of their hands, that it became easie for Otho Son of the great Otho, (who came for that purpose with his Army) to make a perfect Conquest of them; nor was he content to have vanquish'd the Saracens, but he subdued too the Greeks who had made a League with the Moors, and drove them out of almost all Apulia and Calabria. Some say indeed that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 made this War up∣on the Greeks, because Nicephorus Emperor of Constantinople had denied to give him to Wife his Daughter, who had been espoused to him before. This is certain, that Otho, who was a generous young Man, deposed Ni∣cephorus, and made his Son John Emperor, himself marrying his Sister Theophania, who together with her Husband were crown'd by this Pope in the Lateran Church with an Imperial Diadem, by the consent of Otho the Father, who had made his Son his Partner in the Empire. During. the great and universal rejoycing upon this occasion, Pope John raised the Church of Capua to a Metropolitan Sea. But Otho 〈◊〉〈◊〉 worn with

old Age returning into Germany, died at Vienna; whom John also fol∣low'd not long after, he dying after he had sate six years eleven months and five days, after which the Sea was vacant thirteen days.

BENEDICT VI.

BENEDICT the Sixth, a Roman, succeeded John in his Office and in his troubles, for being taken Prisoner by Cincio a potent Citizen, he was put into Castle S. Angelo, a Jail for Malefactors, or rather for innocent persons, where in a little while he was strangled, or (as Cusentinus says) famish'd. I cannot but admire that the actors of so great an outrage were never punish'd nei∣ther by the Citizens of the adverse Party, nor by the Emperor Otho, who was reputed an excellent Man and a stout defender of the Church of Rome. But I am afraid Cincius did not worse by him than he deserv'd; not but that how faulty soever Benedict might be, it was ill done of Cincius to lay violent hands upon the Pope, since the censure of him did not belong to a private Man. But see the turn of humane affairs; The Popes of our times make nothing to clap up Citizens into the same place and there starve 'em, whether they deserve it or are onely a little too powerful than they desire. I believe Otho was too much taken up with other business, so that he could not help him. He died when he had been Pope one year and six months.

DONUS II.

DONUS the Second, a Roman, a Man of great moderation, and though there were nothing done by him worthy of high com∣mendation, yet he was never charg'd with any injustice or dis∣honourable action. There were however many memorable actions of great of holy Men which render his times not altogether obscure. For in his time Baianus a great Magician, Prince of the Bulgarians, so harrass'd with War Basilius and his Son Constantine Emperor of Constan∣tinople, that he narrowly miss'd of taking the Town, which by the neg∣ligence of the Greeks was left almost empty; but at last upon hard terms a Peace was concluded between 'em. Adalbertus also a Bohe∣mian, Bishop of Prague, flourish'd now, who was a Man of so great San∣ctity, that he (by the impulse of the Divine Spirit) travell'd into Hungary, and baptiz'd the King thereof, and by his good life and godly example taught the Bishops of the Country to seek the grace of God; from whence passing into Prussia, preaching the Gospel of Christ with great diligence, he was there crown'd with Martyrdom. At this time too S. Edward King of England, was for his Sanctity in great honour; but was murthered by the fraud and villany of his Stepmother. Ri∣chardus the Historian adds to these S. Maiolus Abbot of Clugni, who

left a great Name behind him for his Miracles and holy life. Donus died in the first year of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, whereupon the Sea was vacant two days.

BONIFACE VII.

BONIFACE the Seventh, whose Family and Country (I suppose because of their baseness) Writers mention not, got the Popedom by ill arts and lost it as ill; for he was no sooner got into the Chair, but the honest part of the Citizens confederating, he was forc'd out of the City, ta∣king with him the most precious things out of the Church of S. Peter, and fled to Constantinople, where he onely tarried till by the sale of what he had so sacrilegiously got, he had amass'd vast sums of Mony, with which he returns to Rome, not doubting but by the help of that to retrieve his dignity, by bribing the Citizens. He met yet with great opposition from all good Men, but especially from John, a Deacon Car∣dinal, whom by the assistance of some wicked Bravo's, he caught, and put out his Eyes. But his Enemies encreasing about him, whether for fear or remorse for his great wickedness, this Author of so many mis∣chiefs miserably ended his life. Observe, I beseech you, how these Popes did degenerate from their Predecessors, who left the Church so ample and magnificent at the expence of their blood. The Pope of Rome the Father and Protector of things sacred, does himself steal 'em away, and he that should punish sacriledg is the Author of it; but thus it must needs fall out in any Government where the Pride and Cove∣tousness of ill Men shall prevail over the Virtue and Wisdom of the good. To great benefices none of the Clergy ought to be chosen, but such of whose Life and Learning there is a certainty; not those who ha∣ving nothing of Virtue or Religion seek by Ambition and Simony to get into places of Power. Boniface lived seven months and five days in his Pontificate, and then the Sea was vacant twenty days.

BENEDICT VII.

BENEDICT the Seventh, a Roman, as soon as he was made Pope he call'd a Council, in which he restored Ar∣nulphus Bishop of Rhemes who had been expell'd in a Sedi∣tion. At this time Otho II. having conquer'd Henry Duke of Bavaria, who had endeavoured some Alterations in the State, march'd against Lotharius, who had possess'd himself of Lorain, a Province of the Empire, and laid waste the Territory of Aken: and gaining a Victory over him, he over-ran the Country of Soissons and set fire to the Suburbs of Paris; but upon his retreat with his Forces he re∣ceived some damage near the River Aisne. After this raising a greater Army, he brought it into Italy against Basilius and Constantine, the Greek

Emperors, who had seiz'd Calabria and that part of Italy that lies to∣ward Sicily, but receiving a defeat at Basanello, he was forced to make his escape by Sea, where he was by chance taken by Pirates, and carried into Sicily. The Sicilians paid his Ransom, and sent him to Rome, and soon after caught the Pirates and put them to death. Otho now gets his Army together again and design'd to chastise severely the Romans and Beneventans, because they occasion'd the loss of the Battel at Basa∣nello, by flying first; but it was not thought safe to begin with the Ro∣mans, and therefore he turns against Benevent, which he takes and con∣sumes with fire, translating from thence the body of S. Bartholomew, and placing it at Rome, in an Island of the Tiber, formerly called Ho∣stia Jovis Lycaonia, which was of the shape of the poop of a Galley. Nay even to this day, as you view it from Tivertino, the Island resembles a Galley, so made, I suppose to represent that which brought Aesculapius to Rome; there is also to be seen engraven in stone the Serpent (in the form whereof that God is said to have arriv'd) and the Ribs of the Galley: so studious were the excellent Men of those times to bring Na∣ture to Art as well as Art to Nature. But to return to Otho; he soon after the aforesaid translation of the Body of S. Bartholomew, died at Rome, and was honourably buried in a Porphyry Tomb, still to be seen on the left hand as you go in, in the Portico of S. Peter's Church (call'd Paradise). Whilst Consultations were held about chusing a new Em∣peror, some insisting upon Otho III. Son of Otho II. Others standing up for Henry Duke of Bavaria, Otho's Nephew by his Brother, the Italians being earnest for one Crescentius of Lamentana, an eminent Man; the Germans on the sudden, of whom there were many then at Rome, chose Otho III. The Pope, good man, all the while urging them, that in their Election, they would have a regard to the Church of Christ, which needed a Governour of great ability and diligence; but at last to pre∣vent tumults, he approv'd of what the Germans had done. He died af∣ter he had been Pope eight years and six months, upon which the Sea was vacant five days. In his time Valdericus Bishop of Hamburg was famous for his great Learning and Sanctity.

JOHN XV.

JOHN the Fifteenth, a Roman, or (as some will have it) a Pavian, had not been Pope three months but he was taken by the Romans and put into the publick Jail of Castle S. An∣gelo, where he pin'd away so long with the stink of the Pri∣son, want of necessaries and trouble of mind, that he died. Some write that he was made away by Ferruccio Father of Boniface VII. a Man of great Power, because he had been an Enemy to his Son in his Pontifi∣cate. However that be, 'tis certain he died in Prison and was buried in S. Peter's Church. Whether he was deposed for his Tyranny and Arrogance, or by the malice and envy of seditious people, is not cer∣tain, so confused are the Accounts we have of those times. In his time lived Odo Abbot of Clugnis and Berengarius of Tours, Men famous for Learning and holy Lives, though 'tis said of Berengarius, that through

his confidence in his vast Learning he err'd in the Faith, holding a wrong Opinion of the Eucharist, which in a General Council holden at Rome he afterward recanted, and leaving off his study of controversial mat∣ters, though he were Arch-Deacon of Anjou, he gave all that he had to the poor, and got his living by the labour of his hands.

JOHN XVI.

JOHN the Sixteenth, a Roman, Son of Leo a Priest, born in the Ward of Gallina bianca, being got into the Popedom, hated the Clergy strangely, and was deservedly for the same mutually hated of them, and more especially because what∣ever he could get either of things sacred or profane he gave to his Kin∣red and Relations, without any regard to the glory of God or the ho∣nour of the Church, and this evil humour has descended to his Succes∣sors, even to our own times, than which naughty custom nothing can be more pernicious, when our Clergy seem not to seek the Popedom for the sake of Religion and the Worship of God, but that they may with the profits of it satisfie the luxury and avarice of their Brethren, Nephews or Domesticks. They write that a Comet appeared about this time portending the coming Calamity, for there follow'd a long Pestilence and Famine, and both Benevent and Capua suffered much by an Earth quake: and these were generally look'd upon as judgments for the Pride and rapacious temper of the Pope, and his contempt of God and Man. But it pleased God, that after a Pontificate of eight months he died and was buried in S. Peter's Church.

JOHN XVII.

JOHN the Seventeenth, a Roman, succeeded when Otho was Emperor, but had not yet been Crown'd. He was a Man of great Learning, and (as Martinus Writes) was the Author of several elegant things. He was so teiz'd with Seditions by Crescentius the Consul of Rome, who claim'd to himself an absolute Power in the City, that he gave place to the Mans Ambition, and with∣drew into Tuscany. But Crescentius understanding that John was so ex∣treamly enrag'd, that he had sent for Otho and his Army into Italy, he dispatch'd all the Pope's Kinsmen and Friends that were left in Rome, to him to desire him to lay by all thoughts of bringing Otho to his as∣sistance, but to come to the City there to exercise his most ample Power, promising perfect obedience in all matters. John, being mov'd with the intreaties of his Friends and partly fearing lest if Otho should enter Italy with his Army, he might do more hurt than good, went to Rome, where Crescentius with all the Magistrates and a multitude of Citizens meeting him, he was brought to the Palace of Lateran, in the Porch whereof Crescentius and all the heads of the Faction kiss'd his feet and begg'd his Pardon; and thus matters being composed they afterward

lived quietly together. At this time Henry Abbat of Loby in Lorain, Adolfus Bishop of Utrecht who wrote much in praise of the Blessed Virgin and of the Holy Cross, and Albo Abbat of Fleury (who after∣ward in Gascoign suffer'd Martyrdom for the faith of Christ) Men fa∣mous for Learning, Religion and Sanctity are said to have flourish'd. This John died after he had been Pope ten years, six months and ten days; and the Sea was vacant six days.

GREGORY V.

GREGORY the Fifth, a Saxon, Son of Otho, before call'd Bruno, by the Authority of Otho III. for Kinred sake was made Pope. But upon the return of Otho into Germany, be∣ing vex'd by the Roman factions, he fled first into Tuscany, and thence into Germany to the Emperor. Mean while the Romans vest Crescentius with an absolute Consular Power, who immediately creates Pope, John, a Greek, Bishop of Piacenza, not more wealthy than learn∣ed; whose name, I confess, is by some left out of the Catalogue of Popes, as not regularly created; but others make him John XVII. because he was chosen by the Clergy and People of Rome, to whom of right the Election belongeth. Crescentius upon the news of Otho's approach with his Army, fortifies the Walls and Gates of the City with all diligence; he fortifies too the Castle S. Angelo, and places strong Guards in every Post that required, so that for some time after it was called Crescentius's Castle, taking the name of him that fortified it instead of that of the Builder. At length the Emperor arriv'd and investing the City, when the Romans perceived themselves unable to withstand so great Forces, trusting to the clemency of Otho, they opened their Gates to the Ger∣mans. And now Crescentius and John being without Friends and at their wits end, fled into Castle S. Angelo, and defended themselves well; till upon hopes of Pardon coming forth to address themselves to the Emperor, Crescentius receiving many wounds from the Multitude, was kill'd; but John having his Eyes first put out, lost both his Popedom and life together; and Gregory after he had been expell'd nine months, was restored. He taking notice of the weakness of the Empire and the uncertainties of Chance, and being willing to preserve the Empire among the Germans, and that he should be preferred before other who excell'd in worth and Virtue, with the consent of Otho, he made a Decree con∣cerning the Election of an Emperor, An. Dom. 1002. which has conti∣nued in force to this day: To wit, that it should belong to the Ger∣mans alone to chuse a Prince who should be Coesar and King of the Ro∣mans, till the Pope should have confirm'd him, and then to have the Titles of Emperor and Augustus. Ptolemy writes that at first the power of Election of Emperor was in the Arch-bishop of Mentz for Germany, the Arch-bishop of Triers for France, and the Arch-bishop of Cologn for Italy. To these were added four Secular Princes, the Marquess of Bran∣denburgh, who after the Election, is Chamberlain to the Emperor, the Count Palatine, who is chief Sewer, the Duke of Saxony, who is Sword∣bearer, and the King of Bohemia, the seventh Elector, (and Cup bearer,)

was added, they say, to prevent discord between parties, for if the rest were equally divided, his Vote turned the Scale. This, 'tis said, gave distaste to the French; but because the Line of Charles the Great being extinct in Lewis the Son of Lotharius, that Realm was fallen into the hands of Hugh Capet the chief Minister at that time (the great af∣fairs of that Kingdom for some time not being manag'd by Kings) they wav'd all thoughts of retrieving the Empire; but the main reason was that the new Possessors were well enough yet satisfied with their for∣tune, and dar'd not attempt any thing further, 'till they were certain that their late acquir'd Regal Power stood upon a good foundation. Ro∣bert the Son and Successor of the Great Hugh is much and deservedly praised for his Courage, Justice, Modesty and Religion; for though he exercised himself very much in the Art Military, yet he found time so often to frequent the Churches of God and to celebrate the Divine Ser∣vice, as if he had been in holy Orders. He is said to have made the Hymn, Sancti spiritûs assit 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gratia; and by these Arts not less power∣ful than his Arms he gain'd the hearts of the People, and drew those honourable respects to his Family which they had before given to that of Charles the Great. Robert a certain Bishop of Chartres is about this time said to have been in great repute for Learning and Sanctity; he having written much and reduced the singing in Churches to a better method. Gregory died after he had been Pope two years and five months. The Sea was vacant fifteen days.

JOHN XVIII.

JOHN the Eighteenth, Bishop of Piacenza, by the power of Crescentius the Consul (as we said) whom he had cor∣rupted with his Money, in the time of Gregory V. was made Pope by a Faction; for he brought so much Money with him from Constantinople, that even the good Men might be brib'd to serve his ill ends, much less might he prevail with the Covetousness and Ambition of Crescentius. I wonder that Histo∣rians place this John in the number of the Popes, he having got into the Chair while Gregory was alive; unless that in writing the Lives of Popes it may be thought fit, as in a continued History, to set down the outrages of Usurpers and Tyrants as well as the worthy Actions of good and lawful Princes, that Readers may observe the difference be∣tween good and bad, and upon the sight of examples of both be deter∣red from vitious, and encouraged to virtuous practices, and lead a bles∣sed and happy life in the Earth. Which blessedness and felicity John wanted; for being a Robber and a Thief in his Pontificate, and coming not in, as he ought, by the Door, He died with ignominy enough in the tenth month of his Usurpation. The Sea was vacant twenty days.

SYLVESTER II.

SYLVESTER the Second, before called Gilbert, a French Man, got the Popedom (as they say) by ill Arts. When he was young he was entred and sworn a Monk of Fleury in the Diocese of Orleans; but he left the Monastery to follow the Devil, to whom he had wholly delivered himself up, and went to Sevil in Spain to study humane Sciences; being extreamly greedy of Know∣ledg and Learning, in which he made such progress, that of a Scholar he soon became an excellent Master. Martinus writes, that the Emperor Otho, King Robert of France, and Lotharius a Man of noble birth and great learning, afterward Arch bishop of Sens were his Scholars. Gil∣bertus therefore full of Ambition and push'd on with the diabolical de∣sire of Rule, by Simony first gets the Arch-bishoprick of Rhemes and then of Ravenna; at last the Devil helping him with an extraordinary lift, he got the Popedom, upon this Condition, that after his death he should be wholly the Devils, by whose assistance he had arriv'd at so great a Dignity. Being greedy of Rule, he ask'd the Devil once, how long he should enjoy the Pontificate, the Enemy of mankind answer'd (as he is wont) ambiguously, that he should live long, if he came not near Jerusalem. So that when in the fourth year, first month and tenth day of his Papacy he was at Rome at Mass in the Church of Holy Cross in Jerusalem, it came into his mind that now he must die; where he heartily repenting confess'd his fault before the people, exhorting them all to lay aside Ambition and to withstand the Stratagems of the Devil, betaking themselves to a holy and pious life: then he desired them, that after his death they would lay the trunk of his Body however torn and dismembred, as it deserved to be, in a Cart, and there to bury it where the Horses should of their own accord carry it: and then (as 'tis said) that wicked Men might see that yet there was some room for pardon left with God for them, if they at any time repent, by the Divinc Will and Providence, the Horses of their own accord went to the Church of the Lateran, where his body was buried. Martinus writes beside, that as well from the clattering of this Pope's bones, as from the Sweat or rather moisture of his Tomb, People are wont to gather Presages and those most manifest of the approaching death of any Pope, and that this is hinted in the Epitaph on his Tomb. Whether it be true or no, let the Pope's, whom it concerns, look to't.

JOHN XIX.

JOHN the Nineteenth, whose Surname and Family because of their baseness are not recorded, died four months and twenty days after he was made Pope. So that because of the shortness of his Pontificate there was nothing memo∣rable done either by himself or any other in the time: unless that many Prodigies, Apparitions and Comets were seen, and many Towns ruin'd by Earth-quakes, foreshewing the Calamities that were to come: Some ease in which yet was given by Hugh, the Vice∣roy of Italy under Otho and Governour of Tuscany; for he manag'd his Province with so great Justice and Integrity, that no one complain'd for want of an excellent Prince. Who afterward dying at Pistoia, the Tuscans universally bewailed him as a publick Parent, not suffering any manner of Respect to be wanting to his Funeral. In this place I there∣fore thought good to mention the deserv'd praises of Hugo, that Gover∣nours of Countries may know, that it is much better by a just and generous administration to acquire glory and honour, than by unjust ways to heap up Riches with everlasting shame and ignominy.

JOHN XX.

JOHN the Twentieth, a Roman, of the Ward of Port-Metro∣politan, being made Pope, indulg'd himself in an easie way of living, and did nothing worth mentioning: But Robert King of France deserv'd the highest commendations, who at this time led a Life as devout as Kingly, excelling all the cotemporary Christian Kings in Knowledg and religious living, and being himself excell'd by no Man in controversial Learning; he not owning that Opi∣nion which the Princes of our times have embrac'd, that it is not worth a Potentates while to be learned; but that it behoves them that are to rule the Nations, to take their rules of Government from the precepts of others, which yet cannot be done without reading and study. What else indeed is an illiterate Prince, but the Image of a Lion command∣ing the other beasts? 'Tis necessary they should be able to moderate their own passions as well as the peoples, who would be thought fit to govern others. With great reason therefore it is that we speak well of Robert, whose devotion was such, that as ost as he had leisure from his warlike Employments, he would sing the canonical hours with the Priests; and so great were his merits in this way, that once when he had beleaguer'd a Town of his Enemies, and neglected the Siege to attend the canonical hours, the Walls miraculously sell down and his Men immediately rushing in, took the place. But John (according to some Authors) having sate in the Chair four years and four months died and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The Sea was then vacant nineteen days.

SERGIUS IV.

SERGIUS the Fourth, a Roman, Son of Martin, suc∣ceeded; a Man of a most holy life and sweet conversation both before and in his Pontificate. He was charitable to the poor, chearful among his Friends and Acquaintants, merciful to those who were faulty, and mild even with the perverse. Beside he was so prudent, that in all the time he sate in the Chair, nothing was committed which could reflect any charge of negligence upon his Government. For placing all his thoughts in Hea∣ven (which all Popes ought to do) and having a mind imbued with much natural goodness he brought about all things to his mind. By his counsel and advice the Princes of Italy entred into a League for dri∣ving the Saracens out of Sicily, and accordingly made equal prepara∣tions of Men. There were then in Italy most of the Sons of Tancred the great Duke of Normandy, among whom was William surnam'd Fer∣rebach, a Man of so great courage, that taking for his Companion in the Expedition, Malochus General of the Forces of Michael Catalaicus Em∣peror of Constantinople, he in a short time clear'd that Island of Saracens, the Princes of Capoua and Salerno lending some assistance. Afterward Malochus using injustice in the division of the Spoil, William thought good to dissemble for the time, but returning into Italy with forty thou∣sand Normans who were just come from the Holy War, he seizes upon all Apulia which was subject to the Greeks, and at Melfi meets Malo∣chus with his Army, fights and defeats him: and thus by the valour of William the Kingdom of Apulia was transferred from the Greeks to the Normans; for he dying without Heirs his Brother Drogo succeeded him, and to him succeeded Humfrey a younger Brother, from whom de∣scended Robert Guiscardi and his Brother Roger. While this past in A∣pulia, Italy and almost all the World too labouring under a Famine and Pestilence, the holy Man Sergius died in the second year and fifteenth day of his Popedom, and was buried in S. Peter's Church. The Sea was then vacant eight days.

BENEDICT VIII.

BENEDICT the Eighth, born at Frascato, his Father's name was Gregory, as soon as he was made Pope Crown'd Henry I. of Bavaria, Emperor in the room of Otho III. de∣ceased, according to the Decree of Gregory V. Some say, that Otho died at Rome and that his body was carried into Germany; others say 'twas buried in S. Peter's Church. However that may be, 'tis certain, that Henry Duke of Bavaria, who was an excel∣lent and a most holy person was now created Emperor, and that he had an Empress equally praise-worthy for Charity, Devotion and Affabili∣ty.

But whilst he was employed in composing the affairs of Germany, the Saracens entred Italy, took Capua, and besieg'd Bari, the Inhabitants whereof being reduced to extremity for want of Provisions, the Vene∣tians with their Fleet reliev'd them, and with the assistance of the Greeks, set upon the Saracens who sate before it, and with great slaughter of them, raised the Siege, An. Dom. 1008. at the same time that Jerusalem was taken by the Turks, without any violation of the Holy Sepulchre, the Church of Mount Sion or Bethlehem. The Venetians had a design to have reliev'd Jerusalem too, but that they were with held by their Enemies of Zara, to whom yet at Loreto they gave so total a rout, that they durst never after by War molest any of their Neighbours. But Henry having setled the state of Germany, coming to Rome, received the Imperial Crown, and then marching to Capua, drove the Saracens out of it, and carried on the War against Bubagano a General of the Greeks, who favour'd the Moors, with so much vigour, that he dispossess'd him of Troy, a City he had built in the confines of Apulia, in a place where Hannibal was said heretofore to have encamp'd. The Emperor Henry and his Wife Cunigunda are reported to have led such chast and holy lives, that they grew famous for working Miracles, omitting no action which might contribute to the glory of God. He founded the Bisho∣prick of Bamberg, and married his Daughter to the King of Hungary, by whose means that King and all his Subjects received the Christian Faith; but Henry died in the eighth year of his Empire, to the great loss of his Subjects. He being dead, of whom in all exigencies Bene∣dict made use as his Protector, he was expell'd by a Faction and ano∣ther Pope chosen in his room, though he soon after agreed the matter with his Adversaries, who turn'd out again the Pseudo-Pope, and restor'd Benedict with honour. He died in the eleventh year, first month and thirteenth day of his Popedom and was buried in S. Peter's Church. 'Tis said, that a certain Bishop walking in a solitary place, Benedict ap∣pear'd to him sitting upon a black Horse, whereupon the Bishop ask'd him the reason of his appearance in that manner; he answer'd, that his business was to desire him to take some Money which he had hid in a certain place to which he directed him, and to give it to the poor, as from him; for that the Money had been of no profit to him, it consist∣ing of what had been given of Alms or gotten by Rapine. The Bishop executed his request, and immediately surrendred his Bishoprick and led a Monastic life. Vincentius writes, that Gerard Bishop of Canobio was in great account about this time for his Learning and exemplary Life; as also was Gutherus Bishop of Prague, who for his great abilities and holi∣ness suffered Martyrdom from the Enemies of the Christian Religion. At this time also so great a Pestilence raged in the World, that 'twas thought fewer surviv'd it than died of it: which Calamity was fore-shew'd by a Well of wholesom Water in Lorain being turn'd into blood.

JOHN XXI.

JOHN the twenty first, a Roman, Son of Gregory, was, as some will have it, Bishop of Porto, though others say, he ne∣ver was in holy Orders at all; he was made Pope at the same time that Conrade of Schwaben was by a just suffrage elected Emperor in the room of Henry, who had been dead three years. In this Interregnum I suppose it was, that several Cities of Italy revolted from the Empire and stood up for their liberty; wherefore Conrade, who was a great Soldier and had been for many years in great Command in the Wars under Henry, raising an Army speedily enters Italy, and marching first against the Milaneses, the chief Authors of this defection, he sits down before the Town, burns the Suburbs and breaths forth nothing but utter ruin to the City; but quickly raises his Siege, by the persuasion of the Arch-bishop of Cologn, who assured him, that as he was at Mass, S. Ambrose appear'd to him, and threaten'd destruction to them all, except they departed from the City of which himself was Patron. Conrade therefore holds on his Journey to Rome, where at the hands of Pope John he receiv'd the Imperial Crown, and then march'd against the Hungarians and Sclavonians, who had assisted the rebellious Italians and soon subdu'd them. Rodolphus also Duke of Burgundy being vex'd by the Seditions of his Subjects, put himself un∣der the protection of Conrade, and therefore Burgundy has been ever since 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for a good part of it, a Province of the Empire. It is said of Conrade, that he made several very useful Laws; among which one was, that it should be death for any Prince of the Empire to di∣sturb the peace of it; and upon that account he was a fierce Persecutor of Leopold a German Count, who was a Ring-leader of some distur∣bances in his Country. He sent Ambassadours to charge the Greeks and Normans (who were quarrelling about the Kingdom of Apulia) to lay down their Arms; and threaten'd ruine to the Romans, if they per∣sisted, as they had begun, to teize their Pope with Seditions. In his time Religion was adorn'd in France by the strict life and holiness of several Abbats, and Himericus Son of S. Stephen King of Hungary had great reputation for his Miracles. But John who is very much to be praised for his life, died after he had been Pope eleven years and nine days. The Sea was then vacant eight days.

BENEDICT IX.

BENEDICT the Ninth, as some say, the Nephew of John, born at Frascati, Son of Albericus, came to the Ponti∣ficate when Canutus a King of England, out of devotion and for performance of a Vow came to Rome, which having done, as he return'd home he married his Daughter to Henry the Son of Conrade. Soon after Conrade dying, his Son Henry II. succeeded his Father, and raising an Army gives battel to Uldericus King of Bohemia; but the Victory being doubtful, he renew'd the fight, overcame him and took him Prisoner, but setting him under Tribute he discharg'd him from his imprisonment; then marching against the Hun∣garians who were contending about the Crown, he restor'd Peter to his Throne who had been driven out by Alboinus. In the mean time the Romans deposed Benedict, who was a sluggish Fellow and good for no∣thing, and set up in his room John Bishop of Sabina, by the name of Sylvester III. who also after a Popedom of nine and forty days was turn'd out and Benedict restor'd; and he finding himself still liable to the same danger again, of his own accord resign'd the Chair to John Arch-deacon of S. John at Port Latin, afterward called Gregory VI. though some af∣firm that he sold it to him. Wherefore Benedict was ill spoken of by all Men deservedly and condemn'd by the divine judgment; for 'tis cer∣tain that after his death he was seen in a most monstrous likeness, and being ask'd, why having been Pope, he appear'd in such a horrid shape? Because (says he) I led my life without Law or Reason, it is the will of God and S. Peter, whose Seat I defiled with all manner of wicked∣ness, that I bear the shape rather of a Monster than of a Man. After he had by intervals held S. Peter's Chair ten years, four months and nine days, he died, upon which the Sea cannot be said to have been vacant at all, because he sold it. Historians write, that at this time Gerard, a Ve∣netian, Bishop of the Hungarians, an excellent Man and of great Learn∣ing, chearfully suffer'd Martyrdom by the Enemies to the name of Christ; being bound to a Cart, and from a high Hill let down upon a Precipice and torn to pieces.

SYLVESTER III.

SYLVESTER the Third, a Roman, Son of one Laurence, was substituted into the room of Benedict when he was ex∣pell'd, but held it not long, for after nine and forty days Benedict was restor'd by his own Faction. The Popedom was now brought to that pass, that he who was most ambitious and would give most for it, not he who was most religious and learned surely obtain'd this high Office, to the great oppression and discourage∣ment of all good Men; a naughty custom which I wish were laid by

even in our own times; and yet this mischief is not so great, but that I fear (except God avert) we shall see much worse. I return to Sylvester, who being Cardinal of Sabina, was made Pope not by the College of Cardinals, for that had been tolerable, but meerly by Simony, as some write; and soon after justly deposed, having entred like a Thief and a Robber, not by the Gate, but by the back door. Benedict indeed was restor'd, but the City continued in a hubbub, sometimes desiring this Man and then another to be put up; which uses to be the case of a Mo∣bile who wanting a Governour to steer their giddy humours generally prefer the worse to the better Men.

GREGORY VI.

GREGORY the Sixth, Arch-deacon of S. John at Port∣Latin, receiv'd (as we said) the Chair of Benedict. But the Emperor Henry II. hearing of these miscarriages, with a great Army enters Italy, and calling a Council, causes Benedict IX. Sylvester III. and Gregory VI. all to be depo∣sed for so many wretched Monsters, and creates Syndegerus Bishop of Bamberg, Pope, by the name of Clement II. Yet Gilbertus the Histo∣rian, affirms this Gregory to have deserv'd very well of the Church, ha∣ving by his Authority and great Spirit in a short time reasserted the digni∣ty of the Sea Apostolick, which had been much weakned in its Powers by the negligence of some of his Predecessors; for he recovered the Patrimony of the Church, and first with Excommunications and Curses and (when they avail'd not) with downright force of Arms he de∣stroy'd the Banditi who lurking near the City, would cruelly murther Pilgrims as they came to Rome, for devotion sake. For this reason some wicked Rogues slander'd him commonly with the names of Mur∣therer, Simoniac and Blood-thirsty; nay even some Cardinals would say so too; which so mov'd Gregory, that whilst he lay ill of that sick∣ness of which afterward he died, he sent for those Cardinals and re∣buk'd them sharply for finding fault with that which was done with so much justice and honesty; And that you may know, (says he) whe∣ther I have done that which is right or no, when I am dead, carry my Corps to the Church-doors, which first let be lock'd up, and if they do miraculously open, then think that I am an honest Man and wor∣thy of Christian burial; if not, that both Soul and Body is damn'd, and you may cast out my Corps where you please. The Cardinals did ac∣cordingly, and the doors were thrown open by a strong Wind that rose on a sudden, and the Body brought in, to the admiration of all Men and to the great reputation of his Sanctity. This is the substance of what various Authors write of Gregory, who sate in the Chair two years and seven months, during the Schism.

CLEMENT II.

CLEMENT the Second, before call'd Syndegerus, Bishop of Bamberg, was made Pope in the Council, by the consent, or rather Authority and Command of Henry II. who having received at this Popes hands the Imperial Crown, caused the Romans to take an Oath after a form he prescribed, not to meddle in the Election of any Pope, except by a command from him; for the Emperor saw things to be come to such a height of Licentiousness, that any factious and potent fellow, however ignoble, could arrive at that Dignity by purchasing the suffrages of the Electors, which ought not to be conferr'd but by the Spirit of God upon those that excell'd in Learning and a holy life. From hence he went to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, where he settled all things and having listed those Soldiers, who had so stoutly resisted the Saracens, he return'd by Rome for Germany. He was no sooner gone (as some write) but the Romans contriv'd to poison the Pope, be∣cause made so without their assent, in the ninth month of his Pope∣dom; nay some Authors say, the venemous Potion was prepared for him by that Stephen, who by the name of Damasus II. succeeded him, at the time when Odo, Abbat of Clugny a Man of extraordinary holi∣ness dying, Hugo was made Abbat after him, a noble Personage, pious, devout, affable and learned, Henry II. at this time reigning in France, Alphonsos in Spain and Michael with his Son Constantine being Emperors of Constantinople, which Empire was now in great weakness and distress.

DAMASUS II.

DAMASUS the Second, a Bavarian, surnam'd Bagnario or Pepone (as some say) seiz'd the Papal Chair by force, without any consent of the Clergy and People. So deep root had this licentious custom taken, that any ambitious fellow durst invade the Seat of S. Peter. But the just God avenged himself upon this Villain, that he might be an example to the rest, who should seek by ambition and Simony that which ought to be the reward of Virtue; for on the 29th day of his Pontificate he died. Some would not have this Man put in the Catalogue of Popes, because he came not regularly to that Dig∣nity, and admire that the Romans were not mov'd with the villany of the action, contrary to their Oath to Henry, to compel him to lay down his Office; but because he liv'd so short a time, that the Citizens could not so soon bethink themselves what to do, I think they are not to be blam'd. We shall then pass to Leo.

LEO IX.

LEO the Ninth, a German, An. Dom. 1049. was made Pope after this manner. The Romans having sent Embassadours to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to intreat him to send them a good Pope, he immediately nominated to them Baunon Bishop of Toul, a good Man and of great integrity. Who taking his journey towards Rome in his Pontifical habit, was met by the Abbat of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Hil∣debrand a Monk, born at Soana, who persuaded him to lay by his Pon∣tifical habit, and to enter Rome, for that Henry had no power from God to create a Pope, but it belonged of right to the Clergy and People of Rome. With these words Leo was so mov'd (and because as he came along he had heard a Voice saying, Ego cogito pacis cogitationes, non afflictionis,) that he laid by his habit and entred Rome as a private Man, accusing himself that he had chosen to obey the Emperor rather than God. The Roman Clergy then by the persuasion of Hildebrand elected Baunon Pope, and so much the more readily, because he had prosess'd the right of electing Popes ought not to be in the Emperor, but in the Clergy. And yet the Vices of several Popes were (as we have said) so great, that it seem'd to be done by the judgment of God, that this Power should be taken from the Clergy, that they might a∣mend their flagitious lives and sinful inclinations, and that the Church of Christ might not suffer ruin in the hands of such evil Prelates. Thus Baunon having got the Papacy, and having chang'd his name to Leo IX. he immediately created Hildebrand a Cardinal-Deacon and gave him the Government of S. Paul's Church; so that it seem'd as if they had divided the Pontifical charge between them, one ruling the Church of S. Peter, the other that of S. Paul. In the mean time Drogo Chieftain of the Normans in Apulia dying, his Brother Gisulphus succeeded him and possess'd himself by force of the City of Benevent which was the Popes by surrender; for when the Emperor Henry having built a Church at Bamberg to the honour of S. George, and had a great mind it should be made a Cathedral, Benedict VIII. consented upon condition the said Church should pay yearly, as a kind of Tribute, a hundred Marks of Silver, and a white Horse with his caparisons; which year∣ly payment Leo IX. remitted to the Church of Bamberg, receiving of the Emperor in lieu thereof the City of Benevent. Leo therefore streng∣thened with the justice of his Title and the Emperor's Forces, marches against Gisulphus with an undisciplin'd Army, and is by him defeated and taken Prisoner; but was soon remitted to Rome with an honourable retinue. Tis storied that in his time Robert Guiscardi bringing an Army out of France into Italy, and driving the Greeks and Saracens be∣fore him, possess'd himself of Apulia, where he chanc'd to find a Statue, with these words engraven in a brass Circle round the head, The first day of May at Sun-rising I shall have a golden head; which words being well considered by a certain Saracen who was Robert's Prisoner, a skil∣ful Magician, he mark'd how far the shadow of the Statue extended,

and on the first day of May at Sun-rise having dug up the place he found a great Treasure, with which he bought his liberty of Robert. But to return to Leo, who was certainly a Man of great devotion, in∣nocence, benignity and religion, particularly so eminent sor hospita∣lity, that his Palace was always free for Pilgrims and poor People; nay once when he found a poor Leper at his door, he with pity ordered him to be taken in and laid in his own bed; but in the Morning when the Door-keeper opened the door, the Leper being not to be found, it was thought that it was Christ himself that lay there as a poor Man. In matters relating to the Faith he used great diligence and industry, for in a Council holden at Vercelli he condemned Berengarius for a Heretick, and by his Monitories put the Emperor of Constantinople up∣on repairing the holy Sepulchre at Jerusalem, which had been spoil'd by the Barbarians. At this same time lived Theobald a noble French-man famous for his holy life at Vicenza, and Vincentius Bishop of Liege, a person remarkable for Learning and Piety, wrote many things skilfully and acutely concerning the Quadrature of the Circle to Hermannus, a Man of an excellent Wit. Leo died when he had been Pope five years two months and six days.

VICTOR II.

VICTOR the Second, before called Glaberdus, a Bavarian, succeeded Leo rather by the favour of the Emperor Henry, than by a free Election; For the Clergy and People of Rome stood in great fear of the Power of Henry, whom they had before offended by putting up new Popes, and therefore lest contrary to their Oath they should seem to make any Innovations, they propose this Victor, and by Hildebrand their Embassadour to Henry all things were managed to both their satisfactions. Victor being by universal consent plac'd in the Chair, with the approbation of the Emperour he called a Council at Florence, where he depriv'd a multitude of Bishops of their Bishopricks for Simony and for Fornication, and admonish'd the Clergy of their duty, threatning severity against those that should transgress the Canons. Some write, that Victor made a Visit to Henry, and that he was splendidly entertain'd by him; but I am of opinion, that Hildebrand onely went thither, who by vertue of his Legantine power, created Henry III. the Son of Henry, Coesar. Capua was now be∣sieg'd by the Saracens, which strook terror into all the neighbouring Cities, but Robert Guiscardi taking up Arms, set upon the Saracens and defeated them, thereby delivering at once Capua from a Siege and their Neighbours from their fears. Of what extraction this Robert was is not certain, some accounting him a French-man, others a Norman; however it be 'tis sure he was a person of a noble Spirit and an excellent understanding, so that he deserv'd the Crown he held of Apulia. Pope Victor, whose life we are upon, died in the second year, third month and fourteenth day of his Pontificate; after which the Sea was vacant eleven days.

STEPHEN IX.

STEPHEN the Ninth, before nam'd Frederick, a Lo∣rainer, Abbat of Monte-Cassino, was no sooner made Pope, but he took care that the Church of Milan, which for al∣most two hundred years had withdrawn its subjection to that of Rome, was now at length reduc'd to obedience thereto, as to the Mother and Nurse of all Churches, which obedience she has since persevered in, as becomes true Daughters to do to a pious Mother. Near about this time Henry III. succeeded his Father de∣ceased, and Alexius succeeded Nicephorus Emperor of Constantinople; Robert Guiscardi also in a mighty Battel overthrew the Greeks and drove them out of Calabria, leaving none but Greek Priests, who even to our times kept their own Language and Customs: Indeed the Constantino∣politan Empire was now so broken by the Saracens, that they had much ado to preserve Thrace, Galatia, Pontus, Thessaly, Macedon and Achaia, and even out of these either the Turks or Saracens every day cantled out one place or other. But Stephen, when he had been Pope seven months and eight days, died at Florence, where he was honourably buried, as Martinus writes. Some say that Pope Stephen accused the Emperor Henry of Heresie for endeavouring to diminish the Papal Authority, without regard to Religion and the immortal God.

BENEDICT X.

BENEDICT the Tenth, a Capuan, before named Nun∣tius, Bishop of Veletri, was by a faction of Noblemen created Pope, at the same time that Agnes Mother of Hen∣ry III. constituted Gilbert of Parma, a Man of great abili∣ties, Viceroy of Italy. There was then in Italy also, Godfrey the Husband of the Countess Mathild a most noble Lady, who was very powerful; for Beatrix the Mother of Mathild had been Sister to the Emperor Henry II. and had married one Boniface a potent Man and of an honourable Family, of the City of Lucca in Tuscany; up∣on whose death all his Estates fell first to Beatrix, and after her decease were devolv'd upon Mathild and her Husband Godfrey; so that they stood possess'd of Lucca, Parma, Reggio, Mantua and that part of Tus∣cany now call'd S. Peter's Patrimony. But to return to Benedict; he was deposed by Hildebrand, because he came not in by the right way, but by force and Simony: for the generality of the Clergy had pass'd their words to Arch-deacon Hildebrand, when he went to Florence, that they would not proceed upon any Election of a new Pope, till his re∣turn to the City. When he was come back therefore, together with Gerard Bishop of Florence, he inveigh'd most bitterly against them all, especially against those who had promised to stay till his return. But

there arising great contention upon this matter, many approving of Be∣nedict, as a very good and prudent Man, though they disallow'd that Election of him, with great clamours that it was irregularly and ille∣gally done; yet at last by the persuasion of Hildebrand, Gerard, a Man worthy indeed of so high a Dignity, was by a majority of Votes crea∣ted Pope, and Benedict turn'd out. Some will have this Election to have been made at Siena, because a free choice could not be had at Rome, by reason of the partialities of some Men in Power there. Benedict was deposed after he had sate nine months and twenty days, and then was confined to Veletri.

NICOLAS II.

NICOLAS the Second, a Provençal, at first nam'd Ge∣rard, Bishop of Florence, for his Virtue and excellent spirit, upon the expulsion of Benedict, (who was not regularly so created) was made Pope at Sienna, and immediately thereupon withdrew to Sutri, where An. Dom. 1059. he called a Council, whither came not onely the Bishops, but many of the Noblemen of Italy, where he forc'd Benedict to resign the Office and Habit of Pope and to retire to Veletri: from hence he went to Rome, where in the second Lateran Council he procur'd a Law to be enacted, very wholesom for the Church of Rome, which is to be seen among the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, to this purpose,

That if any one either by Simony, or by the favour of any powerful Man, or by any tumult either of the People or Soldiery shall be placed in S. Peter's Chair, he shall be re∣puted not Apostolical, but an Apostate, one that transgresses the rules even of common Reason; and that it shall be lawful for the Cardi∣nals, Clergy and devout Laity, with Weapons both spiritual and ma∣terial, by Anathema's and by any humane aid him to drive out and depose; and that Catholicks may assemble for this end in any place whatsoever, if they cannot do it in the City.

In the same Council Berengarius Deacon of the Church of Anjou, was reclaim'd from his Er∣ror concerning the Sacrament of the Eucharist, in the Bread and Wine whereof he affirm'd the true and intire Body and Blood of Christ was not present, but onely by a sign, figure or mystery; which Error at the instance and persuasion of Nicolas and Albericus a Deacon, a very learn∣ed Man, he recanted, affirming the Eucharist to be the true and intire Body and Blood of Christ. We have said that this Error was con∣demned by Leo IX. but never amended, the praise of which belongs wholly to Nicolas, as Lanfranc writes, a Man at that time very learn∣ed, who in an excellent Work of his confuted the Tenets of Berenga∣rius. While these things were acted at Rome by Pope Nicolas, Godfrey the Norman, who succeeded his Brother Drogo in the Earldom of Apulia and Calabria, dying, left his Son Bagelardus his Heir, which Robert Gui∣scardi his Brother (as some will have it) not liking, he drove out his Nephew and seiz'd upon the Earldom, taking in Troia also which had long been Subject to the Sea of Rome. At this the Pope was not a lit∣tle

enraged at Robert, till by his invitation taking a journey into Apu∣lia, whatsoever the Church had lost was return'd again, and then he not onely took Robert into favour, but making him a feudatary of the Church, he was constituted Duke of Calabria and Apulia. After this receiving of him a great assistance of Forces and returning to the City, he subdued the Prenestines, Tusculans and Nomentans, who had revolted from the Church; and crossing the Tiber, he sacked Galese and took in other Castles of Count Gerard as far as Sutri, rendring the territo∣ries of Rome hereby much more secure. Tis written also that Hen∣ry III. was crown'd by Nicolas with the Imperial Diadem, and out of gratitude for it, all his time never attempted any thing against holy Church. But Nicolas having concluded this life with great praise of all Men, died when he had been Pope, three years six months and twenty six days. The Sea was then vacant twelve days.

ALEXANDER II.

ALEXANDER the Second, whose name at first was Anselm, a Milanese, Bishop of Lucca, upon the death of Nicolas, though absent, was for his good temper, affability and Learning elected Pope. But the Bishops of Lombardy thinking for the honour of their Country, that it was just a Pope should be chosen out of their number, Gilbert of Parma at that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 very powerful taking their parts vigorously, they obtain'd of the Emperor Henry, against the mind of his Wife Agnes, that they might set up an other Pope. Whereupon the Bishops holding a consult made one Cadolus Pope, who was Bishop of Parma, to whom all Lombardy straightway submitted, except Mathild a noble Lady who had great reverence for the Roman Sea. Cadolus being soon after called to Rome by the Adversaries of Alexander, both Parties engag'd in Battel in the Prati di Nerone at the foot of the Hill Montorio, in which fight many were slain on both sides. Alexander and Godfrey the Husband of Ma∣thild staid in the Lateran Palace, not knowing where to trust them∣selves, all places were so full of treachery; though some say, that A∣lexander to avoid the bloody sight, did before the Battel retire to Lucca and lived there securely for some time, which kind Protection from the Luccheses he gratefully acknowledged by granting both to their Church and City very notable Priviledges. Cadolus was repulsed at Rome, but rested not long at quiet in his Country, being invited again by some Citizens, (who found that to satisfie their Avarice it was their Interest that the City should be kept in confusion) and getting together a grea∣ter Army than before, he comes to Rome and by force seizes the Citta Leonina and S. Peter's Church. But the Romans with the Forces of Godfrey falling forth, strook such a sudden terror into the Enemy that they betook themselves to their heels, and Cadolus narrowly miss'd being taken having been forsaken by his Friends, but Cincius Son to the Prefect of Rome, with a strong Squadron carried him safe through the whole adverse Army with great disficulty into Castle S. Angelo;

where being besieged for some time and seeing little hope of getting out free, he corrupted the Besiegers with three hundred pounds in Silver, and mounting a lean Horse he escaped all alone. In the mean while Otho Arch bishop of Cologn before Henry the young Emperor charg'd his Mother Agnes with meddling too much with the affairs of State in Christendom, to the great dishonour of the Empire, whereupon a Com∣mission was given to him to compose the Church-divisions according to his discretion, and he coming to Rome at first rebuk'd Alexander with very hard words, for entring upon the Papacy without the consent of the Emperor contrary to Law and Custom; but Arch-deacon Hilde∣brand took him up and stiffly defended what the Pope had done, proving that both by Law and antient Usage the Election of Popes belong'd to the Clergy, and convinc'd Otho so far, that the Emperor Henry being also at last conscious of his Error, desir'd Alexander to call a Council and promised to come thither himself. The City of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was pitch'd upon as most fit; and thither every one came who was concern'd for the safety and protection of the Church; where all things being settled, the Emperor himself not onely got the favour of the Pope, but begg'd and obtain'd of him a Pardon for Cadolus who submitted to him, and for Gilbert, the Author (as we said) of all this mischief, the Arch-bi∣shoprick of 〈◊〉〈◊〉; The first of these the Pope easily agreed to, by the example of our Saviour, who even pray'd for his Persecutors; but the second he granted much against his will, and not till tir'd with the importunity of Henry, fearing what fell out afterward, that it would be very pernicious to the Church of Rome. The Pope depart∣ing from Mantua and passing through Lucca consecrated the great Church there, of which he had been Bishop, with great solemnity, in∣tending to stay there till Arch-deacon Hildebrand had settled matters a little in Apulia; who having received some auxiliary Forces of the Countess 〈◊〉〈◊〉, not only opposed the Power of Richard and William, but forced them to restore what they had taken from the Church: And then Alexander came to the City and after a Pontificate of eleven years and six months he died, and was buried in the Church of S. John in the Lateran, no manner of Pomp being spared, (that could be at the funeral of a Pope) either by the Clergy or People. In his time flou∣rish'd John Gualbertus a Monk of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and first of the Order, a most holy Man and famous for Miracles.

GREGORY VII.

GREGORT the Seventh, formerly called Hildebrand, a Florentine of Soane, whose Father's name was Bonicius, was chosen Pope by consent of all good Men: The words of the Election are these;

We, the Cardinals, Clerks, Aco∣lytes, Sub-deacons and Priests, with the Bishops, Abbats, and many others both of the Laity and Clergy, do chuse this day, (April 22. at the Church of S. Peter in chains in the year 1472.) as Christ's true Vicar, Arch-deacon Hildebrand, a Man of much learning, piery, pru∣dence

justice, constancy, religion, modesty, sobriety and contincncy: who governs his Family very well, is hospitable to the poor, having been ingenuously brought up in the bosom of our holy Mother the Church, whom we think sit to govern the Church with the same Authority as St. Peter by God's commandment formerly did.

And when he had gotten the Popedom, he immediately admonished Henry the Emperour, that he should not for the time to come take any bribes, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishopricks or Benefices in a Simoniacal manner; for, if he did, he and those that bought them should suffer the severity of Ec∣clesiastical Censures. But Henry was so far from obeying his Admo∣nitions, though they were very grave, that he deprived Agnes the Em∣press of all her share in the Government for telling him soberly what ought to be done in point of Religion. And she upon that went to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, where she lived not long ere she died for grief: At last after many Embassies to and fro, the Emperour and Gregory were reconcil'd, and Gregory was by him confirm'd in his Pontificate, as then it was the custom for Emperours to do. But when Henry, who was fickle in good, and obstinate in ill resolutions, persisted in his Simony, though often admonished, the Pope laid an Anathema upon all those, who had gain'd Bishopricks and Benefices by bribery. And that he might not seem to have done it in an heat, he called a Council in the Lateran (at which many Bishops were present, particularly Gilbert, Arch-Bishop of Parma, born at Ravenna) where he gave a reason why he laid such Censures upon Simoniacks, and said, He would do the same to the Emperour unless he alter'd his mind. Gilbert, when the Council was dismiss'd, having gotten a fair occasion to accuse Gregory, and withal being ambitious of the Popedom, incensed Cincius, a Roman Citizen (Son to Stephen, who was Governour of the City) no less rash than seditious against the Pope; and promised him great things in the Em∣perour's name, if he would do as he would have him. Thereupon Cin∣cius laid wait for the Pope, and whilst he was saying Mass upon Christ∣mas day at midnight in St. Maries the Great, he broke in upon him with others of his gang; took him as he was just administring the Eucharist, haled him away and shut him up in a well fortified Tower. The next day the people of Rome, when they knew of it, took up Arms against Cincius, set the Pope at liberty, demolish'd his House, and the Tower, and expell'd all his Family out of the City with their Noses cut. But Cincius himself who was the Author of all that Roguery, escaped, and got through by ways to the Emperor in Germany. Gilbert, who was the contriver of that Stratagem, seeing his Design frustrated, dissembling his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to him got leave of the Pope to retire to Ravenna, meaning there to set on foot much worse intrigues. For he induced Theobald Arch Bishop of Millain, and many other Prelates of Lombardy to conspire against Gregory; besides Hugo Candidus, a Cardinal, who though he had done the same before, and was reconciled too, yet at this time he seem∣ed to be ill affected. For he endeavour'd all he could to instigate the Emperour and the Normans, who were at variance about the Empire, to make a Peace with one another and joyn against the Pope. Which when Gregory understood, he called a Synod in the Lateran, and giving his reason for so doing, deprived Gilbert and Hugo of their Dignities and laid a Curse upon them. Whilst these things were transacted at

Rome, Henry who had fought with his Enemies, the Saxons, very suc∣cessfully, was so puss'd up with his good fortune, that he call'd an As∣sembly at Wormes, of which Sigifred Arch-Bishop of Mentz was Presi∣dent, where he was so bold as to prohibit all people from obeying the Pope in any case whatever. And from that Assembly came Romandus a Clerk of Parma, by Henry's order, to Rome, where he publickly inter∣dicted Gregory from doing any thing for the future, that belong'd to the Office of a Pope: commanding the Cardinals to leave Gregory and come to him, for they were like to have another Pope. Gregory not able to endure such an affront upon God and the Church, deprived Sigifred and the rest of the Clergy that took Henry's part, of all their dignities and preferments; and likewise laid a Curse upon the Emperour him∣self, after he had degraded him from his Imperial Honour. And of this Degradation or Deprivation, the form was as followeth;

Blessed Peter! Prince of the Apostles! I beseech thee hearken unto me, and heat thy servant, whom thou hast educated from my infancy, and preserved to this day from the hands of wicked men, that hate and persecute me for the faith I have in Thee. Thou art my best Wit∣ness, Thou and the holy Mother of Jesus Christ, together with Paul thy fellow Martyr, that I did 〈◊〉〈◊〉 enter upon the Papacy without reluctance: not that I thought it robbery lawfully to rise into thy Chair, but I was more willing to spend my days in Pilgrimage, than at that time to supply thy place for ostentation and vain-glory. I must needs confess, that it was thy goodness and not my deserts that brought me to the Cure of Christendom, and gave me the power of loosing and binding; and therefore in confidence of that, and for the honour and safety of the Church, I do deprive King Henry, son to Henry who was formerly Emperour, of all Imperial Power, in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, for that He so boldly and rashly laid violent hands upon thy Church: and I absolve all his Christian Subjects from their Oaths, that bind 'em to pay Allegi∣ance to true and lawful Kings. For it is fit that he should lose his honour, who would diminish the Honour of the Church. And fur∣thermore, because he has contemn'd mine (or rather thy) admoni∣tions concerning his own and his peoples salvation, and separated himself from the Church of God, which he would fain destroy, I set him under a Curse, as being well assured, that thou art Peter, upon whose Rock, as a true foundation, Christ Jesus our King has built his Church.

There were at that time a great many that talk'd of Peace, when the Execration was past: to whom Gregory made answer, that he did not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 conditions of Peace, if Henry would first make his peace with God. You, said he, must needs know, what injury he has done the Church, and how often I have admonished him to reform his life and conversation. And this I did in respect to Henry his Father's me∣mory, who was my very good Friend, but to no purpose, he having entertain'd principles quite contrary to his Father's. Nevertheless some of those that were present continu'd to urge him, and persuade him that a King ought not to have been anathematiz'd so hastily. To whom the Pope reply'd; When, said he, Christ committed his Church to Peter and said, Feed my sheep, did he except Kings? No, when he gave Peter the power to bind and loose, he excepted none, nor exempted any

man from his Authority. Wherefore he that says, He cannot be bound by the Churches power, must needs confess, he cannot any more be absolved by it: now whosoever is so impudent as to affirm this, makes himself a perfect Separatist from Christ and his Church. When Henry heard what Gregory had done, he wrote many Letters to several Nations, complaining that he was condemn'd by the Pope against all Law and Reason. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gregory, on the other hand de∣monstrated not only by words and Letters, but also by Reason and Witnesses in the face of the World, that he had done nothing but what was just and right. But in the mean time part of the Kingdom revolt∣ed from Henry, and the Saxons prepared for a War against him: upon which the German Princes, fearing some misfortune might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Country, decreed in a publick Assembly, that if Gregory would come into Germany, Henry should humbly beg his pardon: and the King swore he would do it. Thereupon the Pope, who was induced by the pro∣mises and prayers of the Arch-bishop of Treves, Henry's Embassadour, was going on his journey toward Augst, but when he came to Vercelli, was privately inform'd by the Bishop of that place, who is Chan∣cellour of all Italy, that Henry was coming against him with an Army. At which the Pope forbare to go any further, but went to Canosso, a Town near Rheggio, under the Countess Matilda. Henry also made thither as fast as he could with his whole Army, and laying aside his regal Habit, he went barefoot to the gate of the Town (to move the Townsmens pity) and desired to be let in. But he was deny'd en∣trance, and took it very patiently, or at least seemed so to do, though it were a sharp Winter, and all things bound up in frost. Notwith∣standing he tarried in the Suburbs three days, and begg'd pardon con∣tinually, till at last by the intercession of Maude, and Adelaus an Earl of Savoy, together with the Abbat of Clugny he was introduced, absolved and reconciled to the Church; having sworn to a Peace, and promised future obedience. The form of the Kings Oath was this:

I King Henry do affirm that I will keep all the conditions and engagements that are in the Peace, which our Lord, Gregory the Seventh, has drawn up according to his mind: and will take care, that the said Pope shall go where he pleases without the least molestation either to Him or his Attendants, especially through all our Dominions, and that I will be no hinderance to him in the exercise of his Pontifical authority in any place whatsoever; and this I swear I will observe.

Done at Canosso January the 28. Indiction the 15th. But when he had succeeded according to his wish, and all people were gone to their se∣veral homes, Henry moved toward Pavia, but lost Cincius by the way, who dy'd of a Fever: and yet Henry (though that Villain was gone) did not desist from innovation. For he broke the Peace, and thereby vexed the German Princes to such a degree, that they declared Rodol∣phus Duke of Saxony King, and rejected Henry. That moved Henry to petition the Pope, that he would disposses Rodolphus of the Kingdom by Excommunication. But seeing he could not obtain so great a favour, he betook himself to his Arms, and engaged him in a bloody Battel, where the Victory was uncertain on both sides. And then they each sent Embassadours to the Pope, to beg of him, that he would assist 'em: to which he made no other answer, but that he would have 'em quit

their Arms. But notwithstanding Henry and Rodolphus fought a second time without any odds: and therefore when they had engaged the third time, and kill'd a great many men on both sides, Henry (who seemed to have a little the better of it) would not hear Rodolphus's Embassa∣dours that came to him for Peace, but wrote to the Pope again, that he would please to Anathematize Rodolphus, who endeavour'd to get possession of his Kingdom. Which Gregory refusing to do, Henry was so angry, that he studied day and night to ruin the Pope. In the mean while, lest Sedition should be wanting in Christendom, Michael and Andronicus his Son, who had been by force depriv'd of the Empire of Constantinople by Nicephorus Bucamor, came for refuge to Gregory; who not only excommunicated Nicephorus, but employ'd Rogerius a feudatary of the Roman Church to restore Michael, with whom he discours'd at Cepe∣rano, to the Empire. In pursuance of which command he got a Navy, and leaving his younger Son Rogerius in Italy, he took Boëmund his other Son along with him; and sailed first to Valona, but pitch'd his Camp near Durazzo, resolving to make sure of that City which was so con∣venient for the carrying on of the War. But Dominick Sylvius, Duke of Venice, who was of Nicephorus's party, beat Rogerius from the Siege, with great loss on both sides. But not long after Nicephorus was betray'd by Alexius Mega, General of his Forces and made a Prisoner, the City being given up for three days to be plunder'd by the Soldiers, accord∣ing to compact. Nicephorus himself was taken in the Church of Sancta Sophia, but his life 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon condition, that he would take upon him the habit of a Monk for as long as he lived. Gregory seeing that Henry was incited against the Church by some seditious Bishops, cal∣led a great Synod, and forbad Gilbert Arch-bishop of Ravenna (for his pride and malice) the exercise of his Episcopal or Priestly function, un∣der pain of an Anathema or Curse. For when he was summon'd to ap∣pear before the Sea Apostolick, being conscious of his crimes he would not obey the Citation, for which alone he deserv'd the penalty of an Anathema. He likewise censured Roland of Treviso, for that when he was Legat in order to a Peace between him and Henry, he sowed the seeds of discord and not unity, to get a Bishoprick by the bargain. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 did he spare Hugo Cardinal of St. Clements, who had seditiously and here∣tically conspired with Cadolus Bishop of Parma. In fine, he chose three at the same Assembly, to wit, Bernard the Deacon, the other Bernard Abbat of Marseilles, and Odo Arch-bishop of Treves, to go Legates à Latere from the Sea Apostolick to compose all differences between Hen∣ry and Rodolphus. For the wise Pope saw, that such a quarrel, unless it were timely ended, would occasion great calamities one time or other to Christendon. But because he well knew that there would not be lacking such mischievous men as would endeavour to hinder it (because it was their interest to foment rather than remove the dissention) he gave the Legates Letters Apostolical to the several Princes and States, written after this manner:

We taking notice of the weakness, cove∣tousness and ambition of mankind, do charge all manner of persons, whether Kings, Arch-bishops, Bishops, Dukes, Counts, Marquesses, or Knights, that either out of pride, cunning or covetousness they give no hindrance to our Legats, whilst they negotiate the Peace. And whosoever shall be so rash, as to contravene this Order (which I hope none will,) and shall hinder our Legats from composing a Peace, I bind

him under an Anathema both in Spirituals and Temporals, by Aposto∣lick Power; and take away from him the advantage of any Victory he has gain'd, that he may at least be confounded and be converted by a double penance.

He likewise commanded the Legates to call a Diet in Germany, and deliberately examine who of the two Kings had the right, and accordingly by the consent of all good Men to assign him the Kingdom, whose cause was justest: and that He, when he should hear what they had determin'd, would confirm it by the authority of God and S. Peter, than which there cannot be greater. But in the mean while Gregory, lest the Church of Rome should suffer by Simony, called a Council, and therein confirm'd the Decrees of his Predecessors made to put a stop to that evil, in these words:

We, following the example of our Predecessors, as we have formerly in other Councils, do decree and ordain by the authority of Almighty God, that whoever for the future accepts of a Bishoprick, an Abbacy, or any other Ecclesiastical preferment from a Layman, shall not by any means be esteemed a Bishop, an Abbat, or a Clergy man; nor let the same person dare to approach the Apostolical Sea, before he has repented and left the place that he gain'd by ambition and contumacy, which is the sin of Idola∣try. And under the same Censures we bind Kings, Dukes, and Princes, who shall dare to confer Bishopricks or other Ecclesiastical Dignities upon any person against Law and Reason. Furthermore, we confirm the sentence of Anathema which was justly given against Theobald Arch∣bishop of Milan and Gilbert Arch-bishop of Ravenna, as also against Roland Arch-bishop of Treviso; and we lay the same Censure upon Peter, who was formerly Bishop of Redona, but is now an Usurper in the Church 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Narbonne. Moreover, we deny S. Peter's favour, and entrance into the Church to all such, till they have repented and sa∣tisfied for their offences; be they Normans, Italians or any other Na∣tion, who have in the least injured, or violated the Marcha di Termo in Ancona; the Dutchy of Spoleto, Campagna di Roma, Sabina, Tivoli, Palestrina, Frascati, or Alba, or the parts that lie toward the Tuscan Sea. Add to these the Monastery of St. Benedict, and all the Country of Cassino, as also Benevent in Abruzzo. But if any one pretends a just cause for taking what he has not yet restored, let him demand justice of us or our Officers; and if they are not satisfied, we grant them leave to take back as much as will satisfie them; not excessive∣ly, like Robbers, but as becomes Christians, and such Men who only retake what is their own and desire not other mens goods; fearing the anger of God and the Curse of S. Peter.

After that he confirmed the Curse against Henry afresh in these words:

Blessed Peter! and thou Paul, Doctor of the Gentiles, I beseech you to hearken un∣to me a little, and hear me in mercy; for you are Disciples and Lo∣vers of Truth; and what I say, is true. I undertake this cause for Truths sake, that my Brethren whose salvation I desire, may obey me more willingly, and that they may know how I rely upon your assistance, next to that of Christ and his Virgin Mother, whilst I re∣sist the wicked, and am a present guard continually to the faithful. For I did not ascend this Sea willingly, but against my inclinations, even with tears in my eyes, that they should think such a worthless Man as me fit to sit in such a lofty Throne. But this I say, because

I did not chuse you, but you me, and imposed this heavy burden up∣on my shoulders. But the Sons of Belial are risen up against me since I have ascended the Mount, because I cry aloud and tell the people of their crimes, and the Sons of the Church of their sins, and have laid violent hands upon me even unto blood. For the Kings of the Earth stood up, and the Princes of the World, with some Ecclesiasticks and others have conspired against the Lord, and me his Anointed; say∣ing. Let us break their bonds asunder, and cast their yoke from us, and this they did, that they might either kill or banish me. Of these one was King Henry, as they call him: Henry, I say, Son to Henry the Emperour, who exalted his horns, and lifted up his heel too proud∣ly against the Church of God, in a conspiracy with many Bishops of Italy, Germany, and France, whose ambition your authority has yet opposed. This same person came to me in Lombardy, when he was rather forced by necessity than sober in his resolutions, and begg'd to be absolv'd from his Anathema: and accordingly I receiv'd him, be∣cause I thought him a Penitent; but only admitted him to the Com∣munion of the Church, not restored him to his Kingdom from which I had justly expelled him in the Council at Rome; nor did I give the Subjects of the Kingdom leave to pay him their former Allegiance. And this I did, that if he delay'd his reconcilement with the neigh∣bouring Nations whom he had always vexed, and should refuse to restore as well Ecclesiastical as Secular Estates, according to his word, he might be forc'd to his duty by Anathema's and Arms. Some Bishops of Germany made use of this opportunity, as also certain Princes who had been long tormented by this wild beast, thought fit to chuse Rodolphus for their King and Governour, since Henry had lost his Throne by his flagitious actions. And truly Rodolphus like a modest and just King sent Embassadours to let me know, he was forced to take the Government into his hand, though he was not so desirous of Dominion, but that he would rather obey us than those that had chosen him to the Kingdom. That he would always be at Gods and our disposal, and that we might believe him he offered his Sons for hostages for his performance. Thereupon Henry began to rage, and first to desire us, that we would use our spiritual Sword to depose Rodolphus. I answered him, That I would see who had most right, and would send Agents thither to examine the matter, and then I my self would judg whose cause was the juster. Henry would not suffer our Legates to determine the matter, but kill'd a great many men both Ecclesiastical and Laick, plunder'd and prophan'd Churches, and by this means made himself obnoxious to an Anathema. Where∣fore I trusting in Gods mercy and judgment, in the patronage of the blessed Virgin, and relying upon your Authority, do lay Henry and his accomplices under a Curse; and once more deprive him of his re∣gal Power, interdicting all Christians (whom I absolve from all Oaths of Allegiance to him) from obeying Henry in any case whatever; but command 'em to receive Rodolphus as their King, whom many Princes of the Realm have chosen, since Henry was deposed. For it is fit, that seeing Henry is deprived of his Power for his pride and contu∣macy, Rodolphus who is beloved by all should be invested with the Kingly power and dignity, for his Piety and Religion. Go to then

ye Princes of the holy Apostles, and confirm what I have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by your authority, that all men at last may know, that if you can bind and loose in Heaven, that We also upon Earth can take away and give Kingdoms, Principalities, Empires, and whatsoever is in the posses∣sion of Mortals. For if you can judg of things divine, what may we think of things prophane here below? And if you may judg of Angels that govern proud Princes, what may you not do to their Servants? Let all Kings and Princes of the World take notice by his example what you can do in Heaven; how God esteems you, and then let 'em not contemn the Decrees of the Church. And I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you suddenly to execute judgment upon Henry, that all may see, that son of Iniquity did not lose his Kingdom by chance, but by your permission and consent. And this I have requested of you, that he may repent, and be saved in the day of Judgment by the help of your prayers. Given at Rome the 5th. of March, Indiction III.

After that he degra∣ded Gilbert (the Author of all this discord and Schism) from the Church of Ravenna, and commanded all Priests belonging to that Church, to pay no obedience to him, who was the cause of all their misfortunes, and therefore Anathematized. And that the people might not want a Governour, he imitated Peter (who used to send 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in his own room, upon occasion) and sent 'em another Arch bi∣shop with full power, to extirpate Gilbert's Faction and confirm mens minds in the faith. But then Henry (who was rather provoked than chastized by these Censures, and had taken the Bishop of Ostia then Le∣gate, as he return'd home,) called a Council of the disaffected Bishops and chose Gilbert, formerly Arch-bishop of Ravenna, Pope, and called him Clement. But being teazed by the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he left his new Pope for a time, and went against them, where he engaged and received a great overthrow. Rodolphus though he was Conquerour yet was found dead at a little distance, of a wound which he received. They say, Henry was so affrighted at that bloody ingagement, that he could scarce be found in seventeen days, and that the Germans in the mean time had put his Son Henry in his room by the name of Henry IV. Both these coming after with an united Body of Men into Italy to settle their Pope Clement in the Pontificate, and to turn 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gregory, they easily subdu'd Maude who came to meet 'em with a small Army. This same Maude, when her first Husband died, not long before that time was mar∣ried to Azo Marquis d'Este, her former Husbands near kinsman by blood and related to her in the third degree of Affinity. But when the matter was known she was divorced from Azo, at Gregory's persuasion. Henry having conquer'd Maude at Parma, march'd to Rome, and her Hus∣band Azo after an hostile manner, and pitch'd his Camp in the Prati di Nerone, and going into the Borgo di Sancto Pietro, he and his Pope Clement prophaned St. Peter's Church, and demolish'd the Portico, and did the like by St. Pauls. But seeing he could not get into the City, he went to Tivoli, from whence as from a Castle he made daily incur∣sions upon the Romans, till by wasting all that came near him, he reduced them to such necessity that they desired Peace upon any terms, of which notice being given to Henry by some deserters who got out of the Town, he drew his men up and entred in; whereupon the Pope, who could not trust the People, betook himself into the Castle St. Angelo,

where he was besieged for some time, they within maintaining the place stoutly. Gregory's Nephew had not the like fortune, who retreated to the Sittizonio di Severo, and wanting courage to defend it, basely deli∣ver'd it up. But Henry hearing that Guiscard Duke of Puglia was com∣ing to assist Gregory, he thought it no time to dally, and therefore con∣trived this stratagem: He sent the Bishop of Clugny to Gregory in the Castle, to offer him, that if he would crown him in the Lateran, he would return into Germany with his Army immediately: and the Ro∣man people requested him to do it too. Gregory answer'd he would do it, if Henry would amend his errors and beg pardon. This he not only refused to do, but hearing that Guiscard was near with his Army, he crown'd Clement the Anti-Pope with the Pontifical Crown publickly in the Lateran, the Bishops of Bologna, of Cervia and Modena attending at the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. After which he went to Siena and took Clement along with him. But Guiscard breaking in at the Porta del popolo, burnt the City all along to Domitian's Triumphal Arch, though the people did what they could to resist him. The Citizens had fortified the Capitol, and defended themselves briskly against Guiscard, who had already ta∣ken the Lateran. From whence there were a great many skirmishes and sallies made on both sides, and that part of the City which lies between the Lateran and the Capitol was demolish'd, and the Capitol it self at length taken by storm and laid almost even with the ground. Ha∣ving thus made himself Master of Rome, and given the Citizens goods as plunder to his Soldiers, he march'd to Castle St. Angelo, where the Pope lay besieged, and freeing the miserable man at last from all his foes, he carried him along to Cassino and Salerno with him. Where in a short time after he made a godly Exit, after he had sate in S. Pe∣ter's Chair twelve years, one month, and three days. He was a Man, no question, that God loved, prudent, just, merciful, a Patron of the poor, the Widows and the fatherless, and the only Champion of the Church against Hereticks and wicked Princes who strove to make themselves Masters of the Churches patrimony by Violence.

VICTOR III.

VICTOR the Third, before called Defiderius, Abbat of Mount Cassino, being chosen Pope immediately took example by Gregory. And therefore I suppose it was that Henry and he were Enemies, by whose contrivance he was taken off with Poison, conveigh'd into the Chalice as he was administring the Eucharist (as St. Martin writes,) though Vincentius says on the con∣trary, that he died of a Dysentery, which may possibly seem not alto∣gether unlike poysoning, since those that are poison'd do sometimes fall into a Dysentery by the corruption and relaxation of the Intestines. But Guiscard would have revenged so great a Villany, if he had not chanced to die too soon; for when he had subdued the Greeks he went to Corfu and died; to whom (because Boemund was absent) Roger his younger Son succeeded in the Dutchy of Puglia. At that time

there was a famine throughout most part of the World, by means where∣of the King of Gallitia took 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Saracens after he had be∣sieged it many years, and gave it to the Christians. But Henry had ill success against the Saxons in Germany, being defeated with the loss of four thousand Soldiers, God permitting this calamity, that he might at last desist from harassing the Church. There are who say that there appeared a great many Prodigies at that time; as, that the domestick birds, as Hens, Geese, Pigeons, and Peacocks fled into the Mountains and grew wild; that Fishes in general both in Rivers and in the Sea died; and that some Cities were so shaken with Earth-quakes, that the great Church at Syracuse fell down at Vespers and kill'd all those that were in it, saving only the Deacon and Sub 〈◊〉〈◊〉 who were miracu∣lously saved. 'Tis said, the body of St Nicolas was translated to Bari by the Merchants about this time, and there much honour'd; as Mar∣tin Scotus a Man of great Learning and singular Morals tells us in his History. But Victor, by whose procurement Deusdedit reduced the book of Canons into method, died in the first year and fourth month of his Pontificate, not without suspicion of being poison'd.

URBAN II.

URBAN the Second, before called Otho, or Oddo, at first a Monk of Eboina, and after that Cardinal of Ostia, was at last deservedly made Pope about five months after Victor's death. For he was a very learned and an holy Man, and fit for any great Employment. At that time Roger took his opportunity (now Gregory was dead and a new Successor come in∣to the place) to take Capua and all places that belong'd to them be∣twixt that and Tiber, from the Pope and the Romans. Thereupon Urban who could hardly trust the Romans, by reason of their former inclinations to Novelty, went to Melfi. Where being resolv'd to call a Synod, it was convenient to secure all people in their passage to it; and therefore he commanded Roger and Boemund who were at variance about the Dutchy of Puglia, to quit their Arms; upon this condition, that Roger should let Boemund have part of Puglia, and himself enjoy all the rest of his Father's Dominion. And when he had thus settled the Italian affairs to his mind, and put the Church in a good condition (as far as was possible in such an hurry) he went to Toia, to enquire what the Clergy of that place did, and to correct the errors of some ill-livers among 'em. But in the mean time Boemund, whilst his Brother Roger made War in Sicily against the Saracens, took Melfi by surprise. Where∣upon Roger returning from Sicily, besieged his Brother Boemund at Melfi with twenty thousand Saracens which he hired to come along with him, though those within the City defended it very stoutly. The Pope, seeing he could have no quiet in Italy, design'd a Journey into France, but first held a Council at Piacenza, in which he wonderfully curb'd the licentiousness of some Clergymen. From thence he went into France, and began a thing very memorable. For he call'd a Council

at Cleremont, wherein he so far animated the Princes of France toward the retaking of Jerusalem, which had been so long in the hands of the Sa∣razens, that in the year 1484. three hundred thousand Men enrolled themselves as Soldiers under Christ's Banner. After which he return∣ed to Rome, with an intention, that when he had composed things in Italy, he would excite the Italians also to the same end. In the mean time King Henry wicked man, ceased not to affront Robert Earl of Flanders and provoke him to Battel, that he might divert him from the holy Expedition. Notwithstanding many followed one Peter an Eremite, who was a man of incomparable sanctity, and travelling through Germany and Hungary, arrived at Constantinople, then the common Seat of War. And they were not long after followed by Eustathius, and Baldwin sur∣named of Bulloign, men famous for feats of Arms. But besides these there was the Bishop of Pois, Raymund Earl of St. Giles, Hugo Magnus King Philip of France's Brother, and the two Roberts (whereof one was Earl of Normandy and the other of Flanders) together with Stephen Earl of Chartres, who passing over the Alps into Italy came first to Rome. Where when they had visited the SSts. Tombs and Shrines, and received the Pope's Benediction, they went to Brundusium with an intent to go from thence into Albania. But because one Port would not hold'em all, some went to Bari and some to Otranto. But Boemund, who, we told you, had taken Melfi, being desirous of glory, left Melfi, and went upon the same Expedition with twelve thousand choice and young Italians. And this his Valour so prevail'd with his Brother Roger, that he laid down his Arms and promised that for the future all things betwixt him and his Brother should be equally shared: and presently sent his Son Tancred, who was desirous to go into the War along with his Bro∣ther. By this time Peter the Eremite was come to Constantinople, and pitching his Camp in the Suburbs, did so much damage to the Citizens, not voluntarily, but through the licentiousness of his Soldiers, that the Greeks wish'd 'em all cut off. Alexius the Emperour was very much concerned for the injuries which his Subjects suffer'd, and therefore forced Peter for want of forage to pass the Bosphorus before he was wil∣ling. However being compelled to it Peter and his Men went over, and first going to Nicodemia, and then to Nicopoli, attaqued that City though it was well guarded by the Saracens. But they wanting provi∣sions to maintain the Siege, and the Christian Soldiers dying apace, they were worsted by the Sarazens, and forced to raise their Siege; but besides that, received such damage in their flight, that Reginald General of the Germans renounced the Christian faith, and surrender'd himself to them; and Peter went as it were back, like an Ambassadour to Constantinople without any Soldiers to attend him. This was welcome news to Alexius, who hoped, that the Christians, upon such a discomfiture, would quit that Expedition. But in the mean while other supplies came in, and Alexius finding that he could not beat 'em back with open force, he set upon 'em in the Night time as they were pitching their Camp in the Suburbs of Constantinople, but to no purpose; for they that were posted there maintain'd their Camp with great courage, till the rest of the Soldiers awaked got to their Arms. They fought too the next day with small damage on either side. Then Boemund was sent to Alexius in the name of the Army, and partly by Menaces, partly by Promises induced him

to enter into a League upon these terms: That they should not onely pass through his Territories with safety, but have all necessaries sup∣ply'd, and that whatever they took from the Saracens should be his, ex∣cept Jerusalem. When he had so done, he repassed the Bosphorus, and arrived first at Nicomedia, and then at Nicopolis, which was briskly de∣fended by the Turks within: Both Saracens and Turks being Allies at that time, in the War against the Christians, sixty thousand Turks who lay upon the adjacent Mountains, made signs to the Townsmen to sally out, while they set upon the Christian Camp; but were so briskly re∣pulsed that they return'd to the Mountains without doing any execu∣tion. Yet it was difficult to take the City, because all kind of Provi∣sions were carried into it by a Lake that joins to it, till the Lake being fill'd with small Vessels from Constantinople, the Townsmen were so streightned for want of necessaries, that fifty two days after the begin∣ning of the Siege they surrender'd; the Turks, who were in Garrison there, being permitted to march out with their Arms and Baggage. After which the Christians fortified Nicopoli and then left it: and being forced to travel through Deserts, they divided their Army into two parts. But it so happen'd that Boemund sound out a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 place near a certain River, where designing to stay and refresh his Men who were weary of travelling; on a sudden the Turks and Saracens under the conduct of Soliman, set upon him, and had certainly overpower'd him with multi∣tudes, had not Hugo and Godfrey with forty thousand Horse come to his aid 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as they heard of it. They fought very smartly and a great while on both sides, nor could the Battel be ended but by the Night coming upon them: and in that fight it was found next day, that there were forty thousand men slain, either Turks, Medes, Syrians, Chal∣deans, Saracens or Arabians. But nevertheless Soliman made all the haste possible from thence, and bragging in all places that he was Victor, he met ten thousand Arabs who were acoming to the Army; whom he carried with him into Lycaonia to intercept the Christians passage and hinder Provisions from being carry'd thither. But the Christians being supply'd by the Corn then almost ripe upon the ground, arrived first at Iconium (the chief City of that Country) and having taken that by sur∣render, possess'd themselves of Heraclea, and Tarsos with the same success. Then Baldwin, a Man of great Courage and Wit, first got a Signiory in Asia; for he had Tarso and all that he took in that Country bestowed upon him: and not long after made himself Master of Edessa and Ma∣nista. From thence the bigger Army went into Cilicia, now called Ar∣menia minor, which submitting upon the first Onset, they made Pali∣nurus an Armenian who had fought on the Christian side, Governour of it. Afterward they took Coesarea in Cappadocia, and then march'd on toward Antioch over the high Mountains. At that time Cassianus was King of Antioch, formerly called Reblata: but that same King who formerly govern'd all Asia double wall'd it, and called it by his own name; and built about it four hundred and sixty Towers. Here was also once St. Peter's Sea; and here were born Luke the Evangelist, and that Theophilus, to whom Luke directs his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles: and here Men that were regenerate by Baptism were first called Christi∣ans, and lived there a thousand years under Christian Government. Moreover, it appears that there were one hundred and sixty Bishops under the Patriarch of Antioch before the Barbarians took it: and that

there were in it three hundred and sixty Parish Churches. In the year therefore of our Redemption 1491. Antioch began to be besieged with great application. At which time Urban, who was vexed with tumul∣tuous insurrections, shut himself up for two years in the House of one Peter Leo a noble Citizen, near St. Nicolas's Church. But when John Paganus, a most seditious Fellow, was dead, he was a little more at li∣berty, and then he applied himself to settle the State of the Church. For he received into favour the Arch-bishop of Millain (before deposed, be∣cause he had been consecrated by one Bishop against the Canon and custom of Holy Church) he having by way of penance changed his habit and lived in a Monastery voluntarily and holily upon that account. And when he petition'd with all humility to send him a Pall he did it, and re∣stor'd him to his Authority in this form of words:

We are persuaded by thy Letter to send thy Brotherhood a Pall together with the Bles∣sing of the Sea Apostolick; which kind of Honour was never before conferr'd upon any person absent from us.

After that he gave a Pall and several priviledges to the Arch bishop of Toledo (who came to Rome and swore fidelity to the Pope) and made him Primate of all Spain. But he laid a Curse upon the King of Portugal and all the Diocese of St. James: because he had thrown the Bishop of that Province into Prison without hearing what he had to say for himself. About the same time Henry Bishop of Soissons came to Urban at Rome, and freely quitted his Bishoprick which he had received from the King of France, without any hopes of Restitution. Whereupon Urban (lest his Diocese should suf∣fer for want of a Bishop) restored him to his Bishoprick, though he were unwilling to take it; but he was sworn in this manner:

I for the fu∣ture will not communicate with any that are excommunicated by this Sea, wittingly and willingly: nor will I ever be present at the Conse∣crations of those that accept of Bishopricks or Abbies, against Law and Reason, from Laymen; and, so help me God, and this holy Gospel, I never intend to break my resolution.

So also they say he dealt with the Bishop of Bellay: Nor can any one say he was pertinacious for do∣ing so; for he knew how and when to alter his mind upon occasion, which every good Man should do. For when he had admitted a Clerk, whom Gibert the Anti-Pope had made a Sub deacon, to second Orders, he chang'd his mind, because it was a thing of ill Example, and like to be of very pernicious consequence. He confirm'd the Order of Cister∣cians which was first set up in Burgundy; and some say, the Carthusians began their Order in his time: though others say it was in the time of Victor III. But when Urban had settled the Church of God, not onely by his pains and Example, but by his Writings too which he set forth against the Hereticks, he died near St. Nicolas's in the House of Peter Leo, an eminent Citizen, twelve years, four months, and nineteen days after he came to the Popedom, upon the 28th. of August. His Body was carried over Tiber, to avoid the contrivances of his Enemies, who would have done him an injury (if possible) after death, and buried very honourably in St. Peter's at the Vatican.

PASCHAL II.

PASCHAL the Second, before call'd Raynerius, an Ita∣lian of Romagna, whose Father's name was Crescentius, and his Mother Alphacia, was chosen Pope about that time when the Christians fought in Asia and took Antioch, into which they were lett by Pyrrhus, an eminent Citizen. For he admired Böemunds valour so much that he promised to surrender the City to 'em, if the rest of the Christians would let Böemund be Go∣vernour of it. The Christians when they enter'd the City, spared al∣most all, but onely that they were severe upon the Saracens: and Cas∣sianus their King who fled to the Mountains, was kill'd by the Arme∣nians. They had taken all but the Castle; which whilest Böemund at∣taqued, he was shot through the thigh with an Arrow, which pained him so, that he was fain to desist from the Siege for several days. But when Corbanes the King of persia's General came up, with Sensadolus Ca∣stianus's Son, to retake Antioch, Böemund was by that time well of his Wound, met and would have engaged 'em. But the Enemy kept up in the Mountains and could not be tempted to fight by any means. Whereupon Böemund being necessitated for lack of Provisions was resolv'd to fight 'em though the place was much to his disadvantage. So he or∣der'd that Lance wherewith Longinus pierced Christ's side (which they found in St. Andrew's Church at Antioch) to be carry'd before 'em as the best Ensign they could have; and marching up to 'em he defeated them with the slaughter of an hundred thousand, though at first they made a brisk resistance. Besides that, they say there were fifteen thou∣sand Camels taken in their Camp; and so much plunder carry'd off, that from the greatest extremity of want they were advanced to the greatest abundance of all things necessary. The Governour of the Castle when he knew of it, surrender'd the Castle to Böemund and embraced the Christian Faith: and all that were in the Garrison, if they would do the like, were permitted to march off with Bag and Baggage whither they pleased. After that there arose a great debate betwixt Böemund and Raymund, when Böemund demanded Antioch, and Raymund said, it belong'd to the Emperour of Constantinople, by the contract they had before freely made. But the Priests, to whom it was referr'd, gave it to Böemund without any more ado. In the mean time Hugo Magnus (who was gone to Constantinople to compose things) died, and then the other Officers (all but Raymund, who besieged Caesarea in Cappadocia) re∣solv'd to go to Jerusalem with their Army, and rendezvouz'd in Lycia. But by the way they attempted to take Tortosa, and after they had spent three months in vain, they raised the Siege, and march'd to Tripoli, the petit King of which place furnish'd 'em liberally with Mony, Provisions and Arms, and thereby obtain'd a Peace upon Condition, that he, if Jerusalem were taken, should embrace the Christian Religion. Hence they removed, and passing by Coesarea in Palestine, came at five encamp∣ings to Jerusalem; which stands upon an high Hill, and is divided also

by several Dales, so that it cannot be besieged but by a very great Army. Beside, there wants Fountains and River-waters, which are necessary for an Army. For there is no other rivolet but Siloe, and that very little in the Summer time (and sometimes nothing at all) which runs down Mount Sion into the Valley of 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Yet there are a great many Cisterns in the City and the Countrey, to furnish the Citizens with Wa∣ter, but cannot supply great Armies and Beasts of carriage. Notwith∣standing the Christians got what Provisions they could and attaqued the City in four places very fiercely, (whilest the Jerusalemites defended it as stoutly) and upon the 13th of July they took it by storm, the thir∣ty ninth day after they began to besiege it, in the year 1499. four hun∣dred and ninety years after the Saracens took it under the Reign of He∣raclius. Godfrey was most to be commended in that action; for that he first master'd that part of the Wall which was allotted for him and his Brother to storm; and help'd Balion down into the City to open the Gates for the Christians: at whose entrance there was such a slaughter both in the City, and especially in the Temple, that Men were above the ancles in bloud. And the same day they had taken the Temple too, if Night had not come upon 'em. However the next day the At∣taque was nenew'd, and quarter given to all that desired and would lay down their Arms. But the Christians, after such a Victory, when they had rested eight days from the toil of War, and had visited the holy places of the City and our Lord's Sepulchre, took Godfrey upon their shoul∣ders, and carry'd him into the Palace, where by universal consent they chose him King. And he, though he did not refuse the Title of King, yet he would not have a golden Crown; because he thought it unseemly for any one to wear a golden Diadem, where Christ, the King of Kings wore one of Thorns when he redeemed mankind. Then also was Ar∣nulphus the Priest made Patriarch and consecrated by the Bishops that were there present. The Citizens of Neapolis in Assyria were so fright∣ed at this Victory, that they sent Ambassadours to Godfrey to surrender themselves and all they had. Soon after news came that a mighty Army of Soliman King of Babylon was come to Ascalon (a City twenty miles from Jerusalem, was always in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the People of it,) Godfrey resolv'd to meet 'em: and therefore left Peter the Hermit to guard the City, and recall'd Eustace, and Tancred, whom he had sent to Neapoli, with two Legions. As he march'd against the Enemy, he was inform'd by the Prisoners he took, that Clement was Soliman's General, and had fifty thousand Men under him and a Navy laden with Provision and Ar∣tillery; but notwithstanding was resolv'd to fight him; which he did, and Godfrey, who had the day, kill'd thirty thousand of his Men, as the story goes: But Clement, who led the Enemy, escaped away. The A∣scalonites having received such a blow, deliver'd up their City streight to Godfrey: in which he found as much Gold and Silver, as ever was seen together before. Jerusalem being thus retaken, many of the Princes who had perform'd their Vow and had their desire, began to take their journeys home into Europe; among the rest the Earls of S. Giles and Troyes. But Godfrey and his Brothers, who had great success, took Joppa a Sea∣port Town, and Rama, which hinder'd the Christians passage from Asca∣lon to Jerusalem. He also besieged Cassa, otherwise called Porfiria, at tho foot of Mount Carmel, four miles from Acon. But whilest the Siege last∣ed,

Tiberias, a Town of Galilee surrender'd of their own accord, and Caffa was not long after yielded upon terms. But nothing, that Men call Happiness, is very lasting. For a year after the taking of Jerusalem, which cost so much labour and pains, Godfrey died of a Fever: and the Christians to prevent any damage that might happen by an Interregnum, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Brother Baldwin in his room, A. D. 1101. But to return to Pa∣schal, whom Gregory the Seventh made Cardinal Priest of S. Clements, for his Learning and Vertue. He was chosen Pope by the Clergy after Urban's death: though he could have been well satisfied with a private life: for he was formerly a Monk, and made Pope against his will; de∣nying himself to be capable of so great a Charge; but yet at the desire of the People, because the Clergy chose him unanimously, and the Col∣lege of Cardinals approved of it, he did take upon him the Pontificate: but not till they had thrice repeated these words with acclamations [St. Peter has chosen Rainerius, a very good Man, Pope,] and the Secreta∣ries and Clerks after that gave him the Title of Paschal. Then he put on his Scarlet Cloak or Robe, with a Mitre on his Head, and was at∣tended to the Lateran by the Clergy and People, upon a white Horse, until he came to the South Portico that leads to St. Saviours, Where when he had sate some time in a Seat made on purpose, as the custom is, he went up into the Court of the Lateran, and put on a Girdle upon which hung seven Keyes and seven Seals; to let him know, that accord∣ing to the seven fold grace of the Holy Ghost, he had Power to govern the Church under God, and to bind, loose, open or shut. Then with a Papal Scepter in his hand he visited those places which are to be enter'd onely to 〈◊〉〈◊〉: and the day following he received his Consecration at St. Peter's, where Oddo, Bishop of Ostia, Maurice, of Porto, Gualter, of Alba, Bono, of Lavico, Milo, of Palestrina, and Offo, of Nepeso, anoint∣ed him with Chrism: at which Ceremony the Bishop of Ostia had the chief Place, which continues so till this day. After his Unction he re∣turn'd into the City, and took his Crown according to the Custom. That this would so happen, Albert Bishop of Alatri had formerly fore∣told. For being ask'd by a Friend of his, who he thought would suc∣ceed Urban, God, said he, will choose Rainerius for his faith and con∣stancy. Nay, they say that the same Albert foretold also the exact time that he should live in his Pontificate. But Paschal who consulted the good of the Church, then like to be ruin'd by seditious Men, sent out his Forces against Gibert the Anti-Pope, the Ring leader of all the mischief: And to render himself sufficient for so great a War, he borrowed seve∣ral Troops of Roger Earl of Sicily and a thousand ounces of Gold. Gi∣bert, that Villain, lived then at Abba de Marsi: and when he under∣stood that the Enemy was coming, he durst not trust to his own strength, which he had procured of Richard Count of Capua, but left Alba and went with all speed into the Mountains near Aquila, where not long af∣ter he died suddenly and paid for all his iniquities. But notwithstand∣standing his being taken off, the Church of God did not rest altogether from troubles. For Richard, who, we told you, supply'd him with Men and Mony, put up in his room one Albert a Citizen of Aversa, between 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Capua: who was compelled immediately by the well-affect∣ed Party to quit the place, and go into banishment. But the People of Cava near Palestrina, following the Example of Richard's solly and ar∣rogance,

made one Frederick, Pope. But they also repented of what they had done, and one hundred and five days after turn'd him out of his Pontificate, compelled him to take upon him the habit of an Anchorite, and lead a private life. Besides these there was a Third also, one Maginulphus a Roman, who was so bold as to usurp the Title of Pope at Ravenna. But the Romans banish'd him, and those of Ravenna, when he had no Friend left, expelled him their City. The Roman Church being thus settled, Paschal, who was a Man of great Wit and Courage, diverted his Mind from Religion to Arms, and by the help of Roger, retook Castellana and Benevento from the Enemies. But in the mean time Peter Columna, a Roman Citizen, by the advice of Richard Count of Capua (whose main design was to divide the Pope's Army) seiz'd upon Cava a Town in the Pope's Dominions. Thereupon the Pope marched against him, and not only retook Cava, but also took from him Zangarola and Columna, two Castles of his paternal Inheri∣tance; from whence the Family of the Columneses took their Title. There was another Family at Rome (called the Corsi) very powerful and so true to Gregory VII. that their Houses which were under the Capitol were burnt by Henry down to the ground; yet afterward Stephen, the chief of that Family, chang'd sides, and in Paschal's absence surpriz'd St. Paul's Church, and the Castle hard by: from whence he continually teazed the City of Rome with inroads very strangely. For this reason the Pope omitted all forein Affairs, and return'd with all speed to the City, from whence he drove Stephen; who went safely off, disguised in a Monks Habit and so deceived those that came to take him. At that time many Authors say, there appeared a great many Prodigies; as, that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gain'd in some places full twenty paces into the Land more than ordinary: and on the other side, in some places, retired from the shore an hundred. And the like I saw at Pozzuoli the last year by some old weather beaten Marble Pillars, that were wasted to three Cubits; though the Inhabitants told me that three years before they were wash'd by the Sea. They tell you likewise that a Comet appeared of a vast bigness, that was seen at Sun-setting. Paschal however was not disturb'd at any of these things, because he knew 'em to be natural: But when he heard the Bishop of Florence should say, that Antichrist was born, he went immediately thither, and calling a Council, who discussed the matter very nicely, he perceived the Bishop was onely ambitious of being the Author of some great matter, and therefore when he had chid him he sent him away, and went himself into Lombardy, where he called an Assembly at Guardastallo of many Princes and Bishops, and held a long debate about Homages, Fees, and the Oaths of Bishops that had been or should be administred to Laymen. And hearing of the scandalous lives of the French Priests, he went into France, and at Troyes he called a Synod, in which having taken order for the more decent adorning of Churches, and partly expelled, partly chastised their Incumbents, he returned in haste into Italy, because he heard all things were there in an uproar. For Stephen Corsus had taken Montalto, and Pontechio from that part of Toscany which now they call St. Peter's Patrimony, and had fortified them with Castles, from whence he pillaged the whole Country with frequent inroads; but the Pope fell upon him, and beat him out of one of his Castles; though he could not storm the other by reason of its situation, and the Winter season which was at hand. Going therefore

into Puglia to compose the differences of those parts, he committed the care of the Church to the Bishop of Lavico; to Peter the Son of Leo, and to Leo the Son of Fregepan, the City and all its concerns, and to Ptolemy Lord of Subiaco, the territories adjacent, leaving his Nephew Godfrey, General, to assist them in the defence of the Churches jurisdiction. But in the Pope's absence, Ptolemy the reputed Author of all that mischief threatned he should never return to the City any more, and all these re∣volted from the Church: to wit, Peter Columna, whom the Pope had taken into favour, the Abbat of Farfa, together with those of Anagni, Palestrina, Tivoli, Frascati, and Sabina. The same Ptolemy also raised an Army and besieged Alba in Campagna di Roma, which the Citizens very stoutly defended. But when the Pope and the Prince of Cajetta came up, together with Richard of Aquila, two excellent Commanders, they drove out these Usurpers that would have possessed themselves of the Church Revenues, and freeing Alba from the Siege, he also had the other revolting Towns surrender'd up to him, except that he was fain to storm Tivoli, which stood out very obstinately, and occasion'd much damage on both sides: though he took Montalto and turned out Stephen, and quieted the whole Patrimony in a short time. Assoon as he had made Peace here, he apply'd himself to the War in Asia, and to that end wrote Letters and sent Nuntios to all Christian Princes to exhort and animate 'em to it as much as possible; because he heard that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the death of Godfrey the Saracens brought great Armies to Jerusalem design∣ing to re-take it; as also that the Christians had received a great over∣throw, that the Earl of Burgundy was slain in the fight, that Boëmund was taken alive, and that Baldwin himself, Godfrey's Brother, then King, had made a narrow escape, so that the City was well-nigh taken. But the Barbarians, though they had gotten such a Victory yet they durst not attempt Jerusalem. For Tancred who had defended Antioch very valiantly, did also take Laodicea, which belong'd to the Emperour of Constantinople, by storm, because he heard that Alexius was pleased to hear that so many Christians were killed, and hinder'd our Men from pas∣sing out of Europe into Asia. Baldwin the King encouraged by the good fortune and resolution of Tancred, raised an Army as fast as he could, he resolv'd to march against 〈◊〉〈◊〉, having sent to Genoua and Venice for Auxiliaries: from whence he had eighty Ships of War, besides many Galleys that were sent to the place: insomuch that the City was be∣sieged both by Land and Sea very closely, and in twenty days was taken; and the Saracens that came to defend it, utterly routed and defeated. Tancred shew'd great piety towards his Uncle Boëmund who had been kept in Prison by the Enemies for three years, and restored him to the Principality of Antioch, after he had redeemed him with a great Ransom of Silver and Gold. After that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 committed the care of An∣tioch to Tancred, and went first into Italy and then into France, and married Constantine King Philip of France's Daughter: but hearing that Alexius Emperour of Constantinople infested the Seaport Towns near Antioch, he return'd into Italy, and getting a Navy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sailed into Dalmatia, where he besieged Durazzo, that he might divert Alexius from the War in Asia, as he soon did; and Alexius desiring a Peace, Boëmund granted it, upon condition, that he should put an end to the War against Antioch and let the French Soldiers pass through his Country into Asia

without any hindrance. Peace thus made, Boemund sail'd for Asia with the Navy which he had provided against Alexius, and did so recruit and chear the spirits of the Christians, that King Baldwin storm'd and took Baruti, a Maritime Town of Phaenicia, between Sidon and Biblos, whose Metropolis is Tyre, after he had besieged it two months, but not with∣out great loss of Men: so that he was very severe with 'em, and gave the City as a Colony to the Christians. At the same time was Sidon also taken. But amidst these successes of the Christians: Boemund, that fa∣mous Prince died (which caused an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sorrow) and left his little Son Boemund whom he had by his Wife Constantia, and who was to be his Successor in the Principality of Antioch, under Tancred's Tuition till he grew up. In the mean time Henry the Fourth, when his Father was dead (whom he had defeated at Liege in a pitch'd Battel) having com∣posed all things in Germany came into Italy, but tarry'd at Sutri, know∣ing he should scarce be welcom to Paschal; because he had demolish'd many Churches in the Wars, and given Bishopricks as he pleased to any body against Law and Reason. But when Ambassadours had been sent from one to the other, and the Emperour had sworn that he would come peaceably into the City, and force all the Bishops that were possest of Bishopricks either by bribery or violence, to quit their preferments immediately; it was agreed he should enter the City. Then Henry re∣moved from Sutri to Monte Guadio, or, as some will have it, to Monte Malo, (by others called Monte aureo) and pitch'd his Camp there: and from thence by consent of the People, and attended by all the Nobility, he march'd first into the Borgo di Santo Pietro, the Priests leading the way in their Vestments, and carrying the reliques of Saints along with 'em from St. Angelo; for he went that way into the Borgo di Santo Pietro as far as St. Peter's Church; and upon the steps that ascend to it he kiss'd the Pope's feet, who came so far with the Cardinals to meet him. And when he had quarter'd his Soldiers according to his mind, he went into the Church upon the Pope's right hand; where when he had said his Prayers at the Altar, he desired the Pope to confirm the Bishops that he had made, though he had sworn that he never would ask it; which Paschal denying, he gave the signal and in came his Sol∣diers, who presently took Paschal and all the Cardinals, and carry'd him and a great many of the Clergy, whom they had plunder'd before; into their Camp. The People of Rome were so incensed at this affront, that they rose in Arms and beat the Germans out of the Borgo and shut all the Gates. Thereupon the Emperour went to M. di Santo Silvestro and put the Pope and Cardinals in streight Prison, with Guards round about, lest they should escape: which done, he went back with the rest of his Men to attaque the City, and came as far as the River Aniene. From whence when he had first made himself Master of Ponte Mammolo (which takes its name from Mammea the Mother of Alexander the Emperour, who founded it) he burnt all the Villages round about, and made continual incursions upon the Romans. At which the Pope, who was concern'd for the calamity of the Citizens and wearied with their intrea∣ties, desired to be brought (as he was) to Ponte Salaro, where he sent for Notaries out of the City, to write down the Contract, and (though he was unwilling, yet) did confirm all the Bishops that Henry had cho∣sen. Things being thus composed and Prisoners on both sides dismissed

the Emperor was Crown'd by the Pope in S. Peters; but the City Gates were first shut, lest the People should break out; and the very Church had a Guard set upon it by Henry's Order. By this means he had what he wish'd for, and so return'd into Germany not long after. But the Pope, when Italy 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 little settled, exhorted the Pisans who were skilful Seamen, to leave the Baleares (two Islands called Majorca and Minorca, which they had in their possession for some time before) and sail against the Saracens, who infested our Seas and all the shores of Christendom. The Pisans were desirous of Honour and provided a great Navy, mann'd with most of their young Men, and went against the Enemy. But whilst they staid at Volterra for a Wind, the Luccheses in∣vaded their City, which had no body to defend it; and had taken it, had not the Florentines at the request of the Pisans beat back the Luccheses, and manfully maintained it. For which kindness the Pisans when they came back victorious over the Saracens, presented the Florentines with two Prophyry Pillars, still to be seen at the Gate of St. John Baptist's Chappel. In the mean time Paschal held a Council at the Lateran, and revok'd all that he had promised to Henry; because he was forc'd to do what he did, either out of fear of Henry or in pity to the Cardinals that were in bonds, or to the People of Rome, whom Henry harass'd after an hostile manner, to make a Peace upon any terms. He therefore thought it better to retract what he had done amiss (since he was compelled) than to let other Princes take that for a Precedent, and think that law∣ful for them to do, which Henry onely extorted from him against his will. At that time Maude the Countess died of age and left the Church of Rome, in her Will, all that tract of ground that lies betwixt the River Pissia, and Santo Quirico in Sienois, to Ceperano between the Apennine and the Sea; as also Ferrara, which is still tributary to the Church of Rome. There are some Authors (of which Vencentius is one of the best) who write that this Lady died at Florence in a great Fire (that burnt down most of the City, and destroyed two thousand Persons) and that her Body was carry'd thence afterward into 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and buried in a Mo∣nastery of St. Benedict, twelve miles from Mantoa. My Opinion is, that she died at Mantua and was carry'd to St. Benedict's (which she built) by her own Order, and Anselm's care, who was a very holy Man and the cause of her building that stately Edifice. And I am sure Anselm himself who was Bishop of Lucca, was buried there too, but translated after∣ward to the Cathedral of Mantua, lest the neighbourhood should have stollen him out of his grave, because he was every day more and more famous for Miracles. The Lucceses say that they have Maud's body, which I cannot believe, because Guido Gonzaga, whilst he repaired the Monastery of St. Benedict found and removed the body (as he ought) to a better place: Some Authors also write that there was another An∣selm at the same time, a very learned Man, and of such esteem in Eng∣land, that he was in a short time from a Monk made an Abbat, and then Arch-bishop of Canterbury; the same Person who wrote several Books of Meditations; Why God should be made Man; of free Will; of Parables; of the Cross; and of St. John Baptist. These happy times produced Sigebert the Monk of Gemblours, a Man of excellent Learn∣ing; and Bernard of Castillon in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, a Man of a noble Family: He, when he was twenty two years of age took upon him the habit

of a Monk (under Stephen the Abbat, who was the third after the Or∣der of Cistercians was erected) with thirty Fellows more, and was so much commended for his Learning and Piety, that in a short time he was made Abbat of Clarevalle, a Monastery built by one Robert a Noble∣man of great honour, and there he lived and govern'd with great repu∣tation for thirty six years. And when he (that is Bernard) died, he left, besides the same of his sanctity, a great many Monuments of his Wit in writing: especially his Commentaries upon the Canticles, and his considerations of divine Contemplation dedicated to Eugenius the Pope, from whence he might learn the duty of a Pope. He likewise wrote many Epistles; one above the rest to the Romans, in which he much blames 'em: as also an Apology, and some Sermons upon solemn occasions. But to return to Paschal, who decreed in a Council held at Guardastallo, that no Cities of Romagna, as Piacenza, Parma, Reggio, Modena, nor Bologna should be any longer subject to Ravenna which had been formerly the Metropolis and Mother-Church: because the Bi∣shops of Ravenna had often exalted their horns against the Roman Sea. But when the Pope came back to the City, the People desired him that he would make Peter's Son Governour of the City, upon the death of his Father who was so in his life time: which the Pope denying to do by reason of his nonage (for he was scarce ten years old) there was such a tumult of a sudden, that he was forced to leave the City, for fear of some great mischief; for there were many, that said it was not fit that such a Boy should be intrusted with such a weighty Employment. But that would not do; for when he was at Alba, and heard that Peter Leo (a great friend to the Church) was set upon in his own House by the ad∣verse Faction, he immediately sent Ptolomy from Ariccia with a good competent number of Men to assist him; who drove the Enemy over the Tiber, killing some and taking others whom he divided among the several Towns, to be kept. But there soon appeared great inconstancy in Ptolomy. For those whom he had taken but a little before, he set upon by surprise as they went through the Selva del Aglio by his Order to the several Towns, and took 'em again and carry'd 'em with him to Ariccia: among whom was also the dead Governour's Son. Nor was Ptolomy content to do so onely, but he possess'd himself of Sarmoneta Nymphaeo, Tiberia, and the Sea-coasts, In the mean time Henry came out of Germany into Italy with an Army which strook terrour into all that heard of it. But when he was come to Rome in the Pope's absence, (who at that time held a Council in Puglia) and thought himself de∣prived of his Imperial Dignity, together with the Power of bestowing Bishopricks, he was Crown'd a second time, before St. Gregory's body, by the Arch bishop of Braga, who was banish'd by his own Country, and so went home again. But Paschal when the Council was dismiss'd, came out of Puglia to Rome with an Army of Normans and retook many Towns from the Enemy, and at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gave willing Audience to the Ambassadours of Calo Johannes Emperour of Constantinople (who suc∣ceeded his Father Alexius) and bid 'em be sure to animate their Master against the Sarazens. Then the Abbat of Farfa and Ptolomy, whose ill actions were too great to be pardon'd, sculk'd about a good while, till at last Paschal, who was a very mild Man, took 'em into favour. When things were thus settled and a Church dedicated to Agapetus, built at

Palestrina, which he consecrated, he returned from thence in Pomp to Rome where he was met by the whole City: in which croud he fell sick, and per∣ceiving his approaching death, he received the Sacrament, exhorted the Clergy to Peace and Concord; and dy'd, after he had been Pope eighteen years, six months and seven days, upon the 14th. of January, and was honourably buried in the Lateran Church. He in his Pontificate, made fifty Priests, thirty Deacons, and an hundred Bishops. He also conse∣crated fifteen Churches at Rome; especially that of St. Adrian intrefori, which had been prophaned by some of the factions; and the Church of St. Mary in Monticello.

In fine, he repaired and consecrated the Church of the Sancti quatuor Coronati which was defaced, when Robert Guiscard Prince of Salerno set that part of the City on fire, which goes from the Lateran to the Capi∣tol; as I have said in the life of Gregory the Seventh.

GELASIUS II.

GELASIUS the Second, before nam'd John, born at Gaeta, his Father's name was Crescentius of a noble Family, from his youth up well educated and learned, in Monte-Cas∣sino under the religious Abbat Odrisio he learn'd the funda∣mental Principles of the Christian Faith. For this Reason he was sent for to Rome by Urban II. who knew him to be trusty and virtuous and ever had a great esteem for him. But his fidelity was then most conspi∣cuous, when Pope Urban was besieged by the Germans and sectators of Gilbert the Anti-Pope in the Isle of S. Batholomew, between the two Bridges; for he only and that noble Person Peter Leone never abandon'd him. Urban therefore, when he was in his prosperity again, mindful of so great kindness and for his learning and fidelity made him his Se∣cretary, and because he had an elegant way of writing, he committed to him the charge of reforming the style of the Court of Rome which by the ignorance and negligence of former Ages, was very much corrupt∣ed. And afterwards observing the great worth of the Man, he resolv'd to make him a Cardinal, and proposed it often in the Consistory with the good liking of all. But Urban dying soon after, Pope Paschal taking notice of his great deserts, immediately made him Cardinal-Deacon; and upon the death of Pascbal, when the Consultation was held for the electing of a new Pope, all the Cardinals being to that purpose assem∣bled in the Monastery below the Palace of Leo and Cincio Frangipane, by an universal consent John of Gaeta was chosen Pope by the name of Ge∣lasius. This Election put Cincio Frangipane into so great a rage, because the College had rejected a Creature of his, whom he had proposed to them to be Pope, that accompanied with many armed Men he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into the Monastery, breaking down the doors, and beating down whom∣soever he met in his way, and taking the Pope himself by the Collar, he slung him upon the ground and kick'd him, and then made him a Prisoner. The Cardinals, who endeavour'd to make their escape, he threw 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Horses and Mules, not sparing any manner of contu∣mely,

that could be put upon so venerable an Assembly. But the People of Rome would not endure the assront, but gathered together in Arms before 〈◊〉〈◊〉 House, and threatned death and ruin to himself and his Family 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he did not immediately set 〈◊〉〈◊〉 safe and sound at liberty. The Frangipani comply'd with all their demands, and Leo in the sight of all falling at the Pope's feet, kiss'd 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and most humbly beg'd his Par∣don. The Pope then mounted his white Horse, and attended by the Clergy and People of Rome he rode to the Lateran, and was there Crown'd according to custom. At this time Baldwin (who had been exhorted by the Pope, both by Letters and Messengers, to withstand 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Barbarian Forces till some supplies could be sent into Asia to his assistance) took Sobal, a strong place in Syria, and fortified it, that it might be a receptacle for the Christians in their War against the Infi∣dels. Boemund also the younger dying, Tancred who was his Uncle and Guardian, was by all the Christians declar'd Prince of Antioch, which Principality having setled, he was sent for by Baldwin King of Jerusalem, to come with all his force to aid him against the Turks, Saracens and Arabs, who with a great Army had invaded his Kingdom. Tancred arriving there, and observing the small forces of the Christians, dissuaded Bald∣win from joyning Battel with the Enemy, by that means putting the whole affair of Christendom under a great hazard, but all in vain; for Baldwin giving them an opportunity of fighting was overcome with great slaughter, himself and a few Men retreating with great difficulty to Jerusalem, and Tancred by several by-ways escaping to Antioch. The Enemies puff'd up with this great Victory, seiz'd Mount Tabor and pul∣ling down the Monestery there, put all the Monks to the sword. Gela∣sius in the mean time could not be at rest from a forein Enemy; for the Emperor Henry had entred Italy with his Army, wasting all as he march'd, was just about to enter Rome in a hostile manner; to escape whom the Pope at first retir'd to the House of Volcamino a noble Citizen, but not deeming that altogether safe, he went with his Attendants aboard a couple of Gallies prepar'd for that purpose, and sail'd down the Tiber to Ostia, the German Soldiers pursuing him and shooting at him with Darts and Arrows. Coming to Ostia, he dared not venture any whither by Sea, it was so stormy, but he travell'd hy Land to Ardea, accompa∣nied still wherever he went by Hugh Cardinal of the Twelve Apostles, an illustrious Prelate; Soon after the Sea growing more calm, he re∣turn'd to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, from whence he sail'd first to Terracina and then to Gaeta, where he was very kindly entertain'd by his Countrymen. Hither came to meet him William Duke of Puglia, Robert Prince of Capua and Richard of Aquila, who all promised him their utmost service, as became loyal Feudataries of the Church of God. Henry hearing these Princes were raising an Army against him, set up for an Anti pope Maurice Arch∣bishop of Braga, by the name of Gregory, to oppose Gelasius, and recom∣mended him to the Family of Frangipani; and not content to have act∣ed so pernicious a thing, he entred the Country of Anagni, and plunder'd and ruin'd all before him; he had just laid Siege to Turricolo a strong place, when on a sudden news was brought that Gelasius with the Princes of Puglia, approach'd with a great Army, whereupon he decamp'd and as he retreated out of Italy, he sill'd all places with slaughter and rapine. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, upon his retreat, dismiss'd the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Princes, supposing now

that Henry was gone, all things would be in a peaceable condition at Rome hereafter; but he was very much deceiv'd in his opinion; for he was soon after inform'd that the Anti-pope upheld by the power of the Frangipani continued still at Rome, out of fear of which Family he staid privately a while in the House of a Friend; but afterward as he was say∣ing Mass in the Church of Praxede, his Enemies with their Party rush'd in, and he had much ado to escape out of their hands by flight, some of the Corsi and Normanni, two great Families, with his Nephew Cre∣scentius fighting briskly in his defence. The next day guarded by his Retinue and Friends in Arms, he return'd to the City from S. Paul's (whither he had fled) and consulting with his Cardinals, he resolv'd to leave the City, lest the Uproars every day encreasing some great mis∣chief might ensue. Having therefore left to Peter Bishop of Porto, the Vicegerency in Ecclesiastical affairs at Rome, and to Hugo Cardinal of the Twelve Apostles the care of Benevento, he sail'd first to Pisa, not conceiving the way by Land to be secure for himself and the Cardinals who accompanied him; where he in the audience of the whole City related the causes of his departure from Rome, and was received with great kindness by the Pisans; thence setting sail for France, he arrived at S. Giles's, and was there entertain'd by the Abbat of Clugni and his Monks with many others who came for that purpose, very magnifi∣cently and splendidly. Then he cross'd the middle of France with a ve∣nerable rather than sumptuous attendance, (which now adays is the fashion) by the way dedicating the Churches of S. Cecily in Stagello, S. Sylvester in Burgundy and S. Stephen in Tornay, and with Stones de∣termining the Bounds of each Church. Coming at last to the Monastery of Clugni, he was taken with a Plurisie, and died, having been Pope one year and five days. He was a most holy Man and very praise-worthy both for his life and doctrin; so that I cannot doubt, considering the integrity of his life, and his religious constancy amidst the many storms and troubles he underwent, but that he now enjoys Eternity among the blessed in Heaven. He was buried in the Porch of the said Monastery. Some write, that in his time the Order of Knights Templers first began, who living not far from the Holy Sepulcre, entertain'd Pilgrims and accompanied them in Arms in their journeys to and from the holy Places, which by their means might be visited with all safety. These Knights Cusentinus commends highly for their holy Christian Lives.

CALISTUS II.

CALISTUS the Second, first named Guy, a Burgundian, Arch-bishop of Vienna, descended of the Blood Royal of France, was chosen Pope by those Cardinals who were at Clugni at the death of Gelasius, but he would not take up∣on him the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, till he heard the Election was ap∣prov'd by those Cardinals also who were left at Rome and elsewhere in Italy; which being certified to him by Letters and Messengers, he went to Rome, and the Nobility and People meeting him congratulated his Promotion and their own good fortune, not doubting but he would be a restorer of peace and tranquillity to the City of Rome. Here he settled matters to his mind, and went to Benevento, where all the Princes thereabout were met to salute him (according to custom) of whom the principal were William Duke of Puglia, Jordan Count of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Arnul∣phus Count of Ariano, and Robert Count of Lauretello, all Men of great honour, and without doubt the most powerful Lords of that part of Italy, who took their Oath of fealty to the Pope. But Calistus having nothing more in his thoughts than the holy War, where it was much fear'd the Christian Cause would not be able to sustain it self against so many barbarous Nations, returning to Rome, dispatch'd away Lambert Bishop of Ostia, a Saxon, Cardinal of S. Stephen in monte Celio, and Gre∣gory Cardinal of S. Angelo, to the Emperour to treat of a Peace, which having procured without much difficulty, they hang'd up a Table of the Articles thereof in the Lateran Church, to the incredible joy of all People. But this lasted not long, for Roger Count of Sicily in the ab∣sence of Count William, had seiz'd upon Calabria and Puglia, the charge of both which Countries William (going to Constantinople to espouse the Daughter of Alexius the Emperour) had committed to the care of the Pope. Upon this therefore the Pope left Rome and went to Benevento, from whence he sent Cardinal Hugo to Roger as he was besieging the Rocca di Niceforo, to persuade him to lay down his Arms and quit the Siege, but he little regarded the Pope's Order, rather pursuing the War more vigorously, fearing lest if his Cosen William should arrive before he had possest himself of those two Countries, it might render his de∣sign unfeasible. The Pope then began to raise an Army, when on a sudden both himself and many of the Cardinals were taken ill of Fevers, which forc'd him to return to Rome without performing any thing; so that Roger not meeting any resistance easily made himself Master of Ca∣labria and Puglia. Thus was William 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of his Country and of the Wife he expected, and being forc'd to betake himself to live in the Court of the Prince of Salerno, he died a little while after without Heirs; and Roger having lost so considerable an Enemy, arrogates to himself the Title of King of Italy. Calistus as soon as he recover'd his health, held a Council in the Lateran of nine hundred Fathers, where it was consulted, how with the first opportunity they might send Recruits to the Christian Army in Asia, then much weakned; the news whereof

gave such courage to Baldwin King of Jerusalem, that he set upon Gazis a King of the Turks that inhabited Asia minor, who was coming against him with a great Army, vanquish'd him and took him Prisoner; and with like success he encountred the King of Damascus who was marching against Jerusalem, whom he defeated having kill'd two thousand of the Enemy and taken a thousand. But Balahac King of the Persians coming on with numerous sorces, and Baldwin not staying till the Auxiliaries could arrive, he rashly adventur'd to fight him, and was totally routed, and him∣self and many of his Nobles made Captives. This made Pope Calistus hasten their assistance, lest the remainder of the Christians should be de∣stroy'd having no King: and by the mediation of Veramundus Patriarch of Jerusalem a learned and a good Mam, he animated the Venetians with hopes of glory and reward to man out a stout Fleet upon the service, in the year 1121. Dominico Michiele being Duke; which arriving at Joppa, then streightly besieged both by Sea and Land by the Saracens, they o∣vercame them with great slaughter and raised the Siege. Hence they went to Tyre, which after a long and bloody Siege they took, having first made it their bargain, that half Ascalon and Tyre should be theirs, if by their means they happened to be taken. But Emanuel Emperour of the Greeks, Successour to Calo-Joannes enving these great successes to the Latines or those of the Roman Communion, commanded the Venetians to recall their Admiral, which they did and he obey'd, but he was so in∣rag'd, that in his return he sack'd Rhodes, Chios (from whence he transla∣ted to Venice the body of S. Theodore the Martyr) Samos, Mitilene and Andros, Islands belonging to the Emperour. He took Modone and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it; and subjected the Island Trau (before in the hands of the Hun∣garians) to the Venetian Commonwealth. He brought also along with him to Venice the Stone upon which at Tyre Christ is said to have sate. In the mean time Baldwin, who we said was taken Prisoner, being ransom'd, return'd to Jerusalem, and for a while kept up the Christian Cause; so that Calistus having now a little leisure from forein troubles, creates twelve Cardinals, rebuilds several Churches that were ruin'd with age; repairs the City Walls, makes Conduits, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Castles belonging to the Church and distributes great Donaries of Silver and Gold to several Churches, purchases several pieces of ground to augment S. Peter's Revenue and within the Court builds the Church of S. Nicolas. But so great felicity cannot long be enjoy'd on Earth, without interruption, for Gregory the Anti-Pope, before nam'd Bordino, attempting to usurp the Papacy kept at Sutri, where with the assistance of some Roytelets thereabout he did great damage to the Romans by his incursions, and plunder'd all the Strangers he could meet with that travel'd to Rome either out of devotion or about business. Calistus therefore gets together an Army on a sudden, and sending before John de Crema Cardinal of S Chrysogon with the most ex∣pedite part of Soldiery, himself follows and defeating the Enemy takes Sutri, and sets Bordino upon a Camel, leading him so in triumph to Rome; and then forgave him his life, but thrust him into the Monastery of Cave. At last Calistus having deserv'd well both of God and Man died in the Lord; after he had been Pope five years ten months and six days. The Sea was then vacant eight days.

HONORIUS II.

HONORIUS the Second, at first named Lambert, born in the Country of Imola, was made Pope about the time that Baldwin being ransom'd from his imprisonment added the Principality of Antioch to the Kingdom of Jerusalem, all the Heirs being dead, to whom of right it belong'd. But so great a Province not being to be govern'd without a Lieutenant, he made Raymund Son to William Duke of Austria their Governour, whose Wife was the Daughter of Boemund the elder; and having thus setled mat∣ters, he went against the King of Ascalon, who being assisted with forces from Aegypt infested the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Jerusalem, and him he utterly routed in one Battel. Afterward Baldequan a petit King of Damascus attempt∣ing the same thing, but with greater forces, he overthrew him in three fierce Battels, his men in their flight being kill'd up and down like sheep. To return to Honorius; though his Parentage was mean, yet for his excellent Learning and conversation he was every way worthy of so high a Dignity; not but that the methods by which he obtain'd it were not altogether commendable, the Election having been procur'd rather by the ambition of some private Men than by unanimous con∣sent. For when upon the death of Calistus, the Consultation was held about chusing a new Pope, Leo Frangipane imposed upon the Conclave, that the Election should be deferred for three days, under pretence of more mature deliberation and a stricter search into the Ecclesiastical Canons; though neither of these were part of his design, but it was craftily and politickly done by him, to gain time in which Votes might be procur'd for the choice of Lambert. The People were extreamly de∣sirous to have had the Cardinal of S. Stephen, which Frangipane also pretended, that so he might by this trick draw over the People and the unwary Fathers; which some of the Cardinals observing, because they would not have a Pope according to his mind, they set aside the Cardinal of S. Stephen, and chose Theobald Cardinal of S. Anastasio, Pope, by the name of Coelestine. Leo now thought it no time to dally, but perceiving the People were displeased at that choice, declares Lambert aforesaid for Pope, with great acclamations of the Citizens, the Clergy also appro∣ving it; and that the People might not have time to change their minds, he immediately clothes him with the Pontifical Vestments in the Scinie, a place near S. Sylvester's Church. He, though it was not without slight that he got the Popedom, yet was afterward universally saluted and own'd as such. As soon as he was made Pope, he created several worthy Persons Cardinals, of whose assistance he constantly made use in all his difficult affairs; being very much delighted with the conversation of excellent Men, which was the reason that he detain'd at Rome with him Pontius Abbat of Clugni, a very diligent person; and shew'd great respect to the extraordinary parts of Hildebert Bishop of Mans, whom for the sake of his skill at Heroic or Elegiac Verse he promoted afterward to the Arch∣bishoprick of Tours. This age was rendred also more illustrious by Hu∣go de Sancto Victore, a famous Doctor of Paris, who then flourish'd, who

lest behind him several lasting Monuments of his admirable Learning: as his Book concerning the Sacraments, his Book of Sentences, another written by way of Dialogue, entitled Didascalus, another of care of the Soul, and a Book entitled, of Arts and Sciences. All these learned Men Pope Honorius lov'd to that degree, that he neglected no opportunity of preferring them. One foul deed yet was acted in his time much to be abhorred; for one Arnulphus an excellent Preacher of the Religion of Christ, was murdered at Rome by the procurement of the Priests, because he inveighed bitterly against their incontinence and sensuality, and reprov'd their pompous living and insatiable appetite after Wealth, proposing the Poverty and pure Integrity of our Saviour for their Imitation. This Man the Roman Nobility and Gentry look'd upon as a true Prophet and Disciple of Christ, and extoll'd him to the Skies; which begat 〈◊〉〈◊〉 much envy and rage as cost the good Man his life. Whether this holy Man was a Priest, a Monk, or a Hermit, is not certain. Historians write that Ho∣norius was very much troubled at the fact, but could never find the Authors of it: He aster having reign'd well in S. Peter's Chair five years two months and a day, died to the general grief, and was buried with the greatest solemnity in the Lateran Church; and the Sea was thereupon vacant one day. His name is in an Inscription in Marble 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Church of Praxede, but I know not what it means.

INNOCENT II.

INNOCENT the Second, a Roman, born in Trastevere, being made Pope, raises an Army and marches against Roger, Son and heir of the former Roger Lord of Sicily, who en∣deavour'd to possess himsess of Puglia, upon the death of William the Duke thereof, in whom the whole Family of Robert Guiscard was extinct. In this expedition the Romans shew'd so much courage and fortitude, that at the first onset they overthrew the Enemy then encamp'd at S. Germans, and taking the Town, they follow'd Roger to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and there besieg'd him. But in the mean time 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Duke of Calabria, his Son, with a good Army comes upon them and in one Battel defeats them, not only delivering his Father from the Siege, but taking the Pope Prisoner with all the Cardinals that then at∣tended him: all whom yet soon after Roger using wonderful modera∣tion, freely released. For which reason the Pope afterwards was easily persuaded to grant any thing he desired, except the Title of King, which he earnestly solicited with great expence and large Promises. During these actions one Peter Son of Peter Leone a potent Citizen of Rome, by some seditious Fellows was set up for an Anti-Pope by the name of Anacletus, who by spoiling several Churches in the City and rifling their Treasures (particularly breaking into S. Peter's Church, whence he took a Cross of Gold with its appendent Ornaments) had rak'd to∣gether so much wealth, that he was able with it to corrupt to his side any of the Citizens who were desirous of change. So that Innocent up∣on his return to the City finding all places full of uproars, and that

these must needs end in the slaughter of many men, he retir'd of his own accord, and first sailing to Pisa, from thence he went to Genoa and at last to France. Anacletus then being rid of so considerable an Adversary, endeavour'd as much as he could by liberal Pensions to bring over those who were for Innocent to his side, and that he might more firmly oblige Roger, (then inclining to his party) to his interest, he created him King of both Sicilies. Innocent in the mean while holds 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Council at Clermont, in which the Anti-Pope and his followers were condemned; from whence he went to Orleans, and having visited King Philip, by whom he was kindly receiv'd, he pass'd into la Beausse, where at Chartres he discours'd with Henry King of England who came to meet him, whom he endea∣vour'd with many arguments to persuade to undertake an expedition against the Saracens. Hence he took a turn into Lorain, and finding Lotharius newly made King of the Germans, at Liege, who made him many large Promises of assistance towards his Restauration, he made him take an Oath, that he would make such sufficient preparations for the enterprise, as that he should return to Rome with security. After this having held another Council at Rhemes, and, upon his return into Italy, one other at Piacenza, he came to Pisa, where he composed the animo∣sities that had long been between the Pisans and Genoeses. He also raised the Bishoprick of Genoa, which before was in the Province of the Arch∣bishop of Milan, to an Arch-hishops Sea, to which he subjected three Bishops of Corsica and the Bishop of Bebio. The same he did by that of Pisa, making it an Arch-Bishoprick, with Jurisdiction over the other three Bishops of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the Bishop of Populonia. Lotharius by this time was come into Italy with a great Army, which having by the Pope's advice divided with two distinct Bodies he march'd to the City; where making himself Master of Janicolo he entred that way, while Innocent with another party by another way crossing the River Anien over Ponte Mamolo gets into the Lateran, the Anti-Pope not appearing at all. So that Lo∣tharius with marvellously good fortune quash'd that Faction and as much as in him lay took care that Innocent should not thereafter be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by them. The Pope was so extreamly obliged by these great ser∣vices of Lotharius, that Henry being now dead, he created him Empe∣rour of the Romans and crown'd him with an Imperial Diadem. Which done, Lotharius return'd into Germany, to reduce the Leutici then in Re∣bellion; but while the Pope called a Council at Pisa, to consider of the State of Christendom and of the preservation of Religion; the Anti-Pope who was condemn'd in this Council also, with the assistance of Roger and some factious People, again bestirs himself against the Pope. Here∣upon the Emperour Lotharius having repress'd his own Rebels, once more advances towards Rome with his Army, and the Pisans on the Pope's behalf fit out a powerful Fleet; and with these Forces they not onely quell'd the Sedition at Rome, but attack'd Roger so stoutly both by Sea and Land, that they stripp'd him of all that he held in Italy, and drove him to his own Sicily in a short time. John Emperour of Con∣stantinople, who had no kindness for Roger, hearing of these great suc∣cesses, sent Ambassadours to congratulate Lotharius upon that occasion; one of which Embassie was a Sophister, who would undertake to prove that the Latin Church profess'd a great Error, in declaring contrary, as he said, to the opinion of the Nicene Council, which was that (the Holy

Ghost proceeded from the Father) that the said Holy Ghost did proceed from the Father and the Son. But among those who manag'd the Con∣troversie was one Peter a Deacon, a learned Man and a great Disputant, who replied thus:

If the Latins (says he) are to be condemn'd be∣cause they add that the Holy Ghost proceeds from the Son also; why are not the Greeks much more to be condemn'd who say, the H.G. proceeds from the Father alone; whereas the Council said no more than that it proceeded from the Father?

The bold man was so gra∣vel'd with this acute Answer, that he laid down the Controversie and disputed no more. The Emperour Lotharius being about to depart, and Innocent fearing that when he was gone Roger would attempt to regain what he had lost in Italy, he created Raino one of Lotharius's Comman∣ders, (left by him to secure the Country with some Troops) Duke of Puglia. The Anti-Pope soon after died and was buried privately by his Friends, and the Cardinals who had been his Sectators were recon∣cil'd to the Pope, so that the Church seem'd to be in a likelihood of en∣joying a little Tranquillity; when on a sudden some Citizens of Rome seeking to enlarge their Power by tumults, set up several Senators of their own to take into their hands the whole Government of the affairs and territories of the City. Whilst the Pope withstood these attempts, he holding a Council in the Lateran, wherein it was ordain'd that no Lay-man should lay violent hands on a Clergy-man, he died, having been Pope fourteen years, seven months and thirteen days, A.D. 1114. At which time were in great esteem, Gilbert an English Man, a Person of so great knowledg, that he was call'd, the universal Scholar, and Am∣bert Arch-bishop of Rhemes, not inferiour to his Master Gilbert for parts and learning. That piece of Mosaic work which is still to be seen in the Vault of S. Mary in Trastevere was done by this Pope.

CELESTINE II.

CELESTINE the Second, at first nam'd Guido, Cardinal Priest of S. Mark, a Tuscan, born at Citta di Castello, called by the Antients Tiphernum, was by universal consent cho∣sen Pope in the room of the deceased Innocent, at the time when Baldwin King of Jerusalem dying, Fulk Earl of Anjou, his Son-in-law succeeded him in that Kingdom, which with the help of his two va∣liant Sons, he defended stoutly for some time. For when the Turks who inhabited near the Persian Gulph, had made incursions into the territo∣ries of Antioch, he not onely defeated them, but slew three thousand of their number and took as many Prisoners. Which loss so enrag'd Alaph the Turk, that with some Babylonian Auxiliaries, he sate down before E∣dessa a City of Mesopotamia, called by Jews Arach, (which we told you Baldwin had beg'd of his Brother Godfrey) and took it, the Barba∣rians plundering and spoiling all without mercy, putting all those Chri∣stians to the sword who would not deny the Faith, and ravishing the principal Women, even upon S. John Baptist's Altar, because they knew it was had in high reverence by the Christians. But while an Army

was raising, King Fulk (I know not by what ill luck) fell from his Horse, as he was riding too rashly after a Hare, and died of his fall, to whom Baldwin the third of that name, succeeded in the Throne. And Cele∣stine, after he had sate five months, died, and was buried in the Lateran. He was happy in one thing, that he was not pestered with any Sedi∣tions in his Pontificate, which yet perhaps is to be attributed to the shortness of his time.

LƲCIƲS II.

LƲCIƲS the Second, a Bononian, his Father's name was Albert, came to the Popedom at that time when the news of the taking of Edessa was brought to Italy. This Edessa was the City to which Holy Scripture says, Tobias sent his Son, and which the Apostle Thaddaeus converted to the faith of Christ, being since honoured with the reliques of S. Thomas, and hence it was that Agbarus King of the place sent a Letter to our Saviour, to which he vouchsafed to write an Answer with his own hand. Upon the tidings of this great loss, Bernard Abbat of Clairvaux, a personage famous for Sanctity and Learning, as I have said before, took to heart the defence of Christianity, and by Letters and Messengers animated all Christian Princes to take upon them the Cross and Banner of Christ against the Saracens; and prevailed upon Conrade of Schwaben, who had succeeded Lotharius in the Empire, to engage in the Expedition. While provision was thus made for the defence of the Christian Religion, in France and Germany, Roger by the Pope's negligence returns into Italy and regains all that he had lost without meeting any resistance, which success gave him so much courage and strength, that passing with a Fleet into Africa, he so plagu'd the King of Tunis, that to buy his peace, he made him pro∣mise him a yearly tribute, which he paid for thirty years afterward. Conrade having in the mean while got together a great Army under the Cross, march'd to Constantinople, where Emanuel II. Emperour of the Greeks over-persuaded him to take his journey straight on to Iconium, without taking care of provision, assuring him that himself would sup∣ply the Army with whatsoever should be necessary. Whereupon that City, well fortified both by Art and Nature, was closely besieg'd a great while; but the wicked Emperour shew'd them a Greek Trick, and mix'd Lime with their Meal, with which the bread was made for the whole Army of the Christians, and this kill'd so many of the Soldiers, that they were forc'd to raise the Siege and return into France, without having done any thing. Some advantage yet this Expedition may be said to have given the Christians, because King Baldwin IV. of Jerusalem took such courage upon it as to besiege and take by storm the City of Asca∣lon, having also a little before rebuilt the antient City Gaza, (then almost deserted by the Enemy) giving it for a dwelling place to the Knights Templars. Beside the same Baldwin gave a bold repulse to some Turkish Chieftains who infested the Inhabitants of Jericho, of whom in one single Battel he is said to have kill'd five thousand. Moreover Noradine

Governour of Damascus invading the territories of Jerusalem was met withal by Baldwin, and totally routed, so that in the pursuit the Chri∣stians were with much ado kept off from entring the City of Damascus pel-mel with the Enemy. But to return to Pope Lucius; he omitted no care nor pains in promoting that so considerable and necessary Expedi∣tion; and I suppose, he was much the more concern'd in his mind for it, because before he was Pope, he was Cardinal Priest of S. Cross in Jerusalem, the Church whereof he almost wholly re-built. By his ap∣probation, a national Council was held in France of several Bishops and Abbats, against Peter Abelardus a Peripatetic Philosopher, and a very learned Man, who had maintain'd some heterodox Opinions; but was in the presence of King Lewis, so effectually convinc'd, that he not only chang'd his mind, but took upon him the life and order of a Monk, and afterward together with some of his Scholars led a most holy life seclu∣ded from the World in a desert place. Lucius, after he had been Pope eleven months and four days, died and was buried in the Lateran.

EƲGENIƲS III.

EƲGENIƲS the Third, a Pisan, Abbat of S. Anastasius ha∣ving been chosen a Monk by that holy Man Bernard, was crea∣ted Pope in the Church of S. Caesarius; for when the Cardinals could not well agree whom to chuse out of their own number, mov'd by an impulse from above, they pitch'd upon this most religious Man Eugenius. He finding the Romans would be urgent upon him with threats, to procure his confirmation of their Senators, he fled by night to Sabina, accompanied by the College of Cardinals, and was consecra∣ted in the Monastery of Farfara; and despising not onely the big words of the Romans, but defying the worst they could do, he drove those Senators to such a straight, that he forc'd them to resign their Offices. Hereupon he return'd to Rome, but perceiving the Citizens were recon∣cil'd to him only out of design and not heartily, and being afraid lest some trap should be laid for him, he escap'd to Tivoli, the Romans throwing at him Darts and other missile Weapons as he departed. After this he went to Pisa and from thence by Sea to France, where he persuaded King Lewis to engage in the holy War against the Turks and Saracens, who arriving at Constantinople, was no better used by the Emperour Emanuel than Conrade of Schwaben had been before him; for Lewis taking his advice to pass through the deserts of Syria at a very unseasonable time, was reduc'd to such extream necessity, that he was compell'd to march his Army (harrass'd with the bad way and want of all things) to An∣tioch, without entring upon any action. This falsity of Emanuel pro∣cur'd him the enmity of Roger King of Sicily, who mans out a Navy for Greece, and seizes from him the Island of Corfu, Corinth, Thebes and Euboea, and had gone up to Constantinople it self, if the Venetians had not equipp'd a Fleet of sixty Gallies to hinder his design. Roger there∣fore, as God would have it, turns to the coast of Asia, where the Saracens Fleet had block'd up Lewis King of France, (then intending to set sail

for Palestine from Porto di S. Simon,) and having got them at an advantage sets upon 'em and routs 'em, delivering by this means this Christian King and his Army from destruction. In the mean time the Venetian Fleet which was altogether on Emanuel's side, retakes all those places which Roger had possest himself of, but had been left by him unfortified and without Garisons; Roger then leaving King Lewis at Joppa, sets sail directly for Constantinople, where he burnt the Suburbs in the very sight of the Emperour, and carried his Victory so far, that for some time he besieged even his Palace, and with his own hand gather'd fruit out of his Garden. But having got his Fleet together in order to return into Sicily, he fell unawares upon the Venetian Navy which was ready pre∣par'd for a Battel, and was by them defeated with the loss of twenty of his Gallies, himself hardly escaping by flight. While these things were doing, Conrade, Lewis and Baldwin, with joint forces and courages at∣tack'd Damascus, which City was built by the Servants of Abraham, in a Champain Country and naturally subject to drought, but by Art ren∣dred fertile and plentiful; for the ground is watered by Channels and guts dug in the Earth and by that means made to abound with all things. There is but one small River in that Country, which running not far from the City Walls, makes a little tongue of Land in which their Camp was pitch'd, whereby they easily could hinder the Citizens from fetching Water; but a certain Assyrian, to whom in difficult matters Baldwin was wont to give great credit, over-persuaded him to remove his Camp to the other side of the Town, pretending that it might with more ease be there expugnable, because the Walls were not so strong; which was no sooner done, but those of Damascus possess'd themselves of the place where our Men had encamp'd, and having entrench'd them∣selves stop'd all the Water and Provisions that the Christians wanted: So that being press'd with hunger and thirst, they were forc'd disho∣nourably to raise the Siege, from which Baldwin went to Jerusalem, and Lewis and Conrade took their march to Europe, whither they re∣turn'd An. Dom. 1152. with their Armies, which by several accidents were very much shattered. Eugenius after having (as aforesaid) stir'd up the Christians to this Expedition, return'd to Rome, where he was pompously and heartily entertain'd by the Citizens; but having reco∣ver'd Terracina, Sezza, Norba and Rocca di Fumone, places which had been seiz'd from the Church by several Lords of the adjacent Country, he retir'd to Tivoli for his diversion, where soon after he died, having sate in the Papal Chair eight years four months and twenty days. His body was carry'd to Rome, and buried with great state (as reason good) in St. Peter's Church. By his Order and at his charge the Portico of S. Mary Maggiore was built or rather re-edified, as appears by the In∣scription.

ANASTASIƲS IV.

ANASTASIƲS the Fourth, a Roman, Son of Benedict, was before Abbat of S. Ruffo in Velitro, and now of a Cardi∣nal was made Pope, at that time when Alphonso K. of Spain died in his return from the Holy War, to whom succeeded his Son Sanctius, who soon after being slain in the Christian quarrel in a Battel in Arabia, his Brother Ferdinand succeeded him in the Throne. Anastasius having obtain'd the Popedom, gave a Chalice of most excellent workmanship and vast price to the Lateran Church, and in a short time raised a noble structure near the Pantheon, now called S. Mar∣ca rotunda; and many other things he design'd for the honour of the Church and the Ornament of the City, if he had lived a little longer. Great expectations Men had entertain'd concerning him and hopes that his goodness together with the learning of Richard de S. Victore his Co∣temporary, would vindicate those times from obscurity and ignominy: for Richard was then a famous Doctor and wrote many things gravely and copiously, particularly a Book concerning the Trinity; beside that he was an eloquent as well as profound Preacher. At this time almost all Europe was afflicted with Famine, which put our Pope upon acts of Cha∣rity which he perform'd liberally both openly and in secret, but he died when he had been Pope one year four months and twenty four days, and was buried in the Lateran in a Tomb of Porphyry.

HADRIAN IV.

HADRIAN the Fourth, an English man [born near S. Al∣bans in Hertfordshire] having been sent into Norway to preach the Gospel, he converted that Nation to the Christian faith, and was therefore by Pope Eugenius made Bishop of Alba and Cardinal. Upon the death of Anastasius being elected Pope, he was ap∣plied to by the Romans both with Prayers and threats for an investiture of their Consuls in the absolute administration of the Government of the City, but he positively refused; and the Clergy of Rome desiring him to go to the Lateran to be consecrated, he also denied so to do, unless Ar∣nold of Brescia who had been condemn'd for a Heretick by Eugenius, were first expell'd the City. This so enrag'd the People, that they set up∣on the Cardinal of S. Pudentiana in the Via Sacra as he was going to the Pope, and gave him a wound or two. This the Pope took so ill, that he set them under Excommunication, till at last they chang'd their minds, and both banish'd Arnold and forc'd their Consuls to lay down their Of∣fices, leaving to the Pope the absolute Power of governing the City. Mean time William King of Sicily, who succeeded Roger, takes the Sub∣burbs of Benevent, and both Ceperano and Bauco from the Church, which so enrag'd the Pope, that he Anathematiz'd him, and absolv'd all his Sub∣jects

of their Allegiance, that so they might be at liberty to rebel. But at this time the Emperour Frederick I. of Schwaben was entred into Lom∣bardy with an Army and besieging Tortona, which had revolted from the Empire, he took it by force, and thence with great speed he continued his march towards Rome. The Pope was then at Viterbo, from whence he went to visit Orvieto and Civita Castellana, places belonging to the Church, to confirm them in their Allegiance; but finding himself unable to cope with the Imperial Army, by his Nuntio's he struck up a Peace, and met the Emperor near Sutri, who alighting from his Horse, address'd to him with all that Ceremony which was due to the true Vicar of Christ. From hence they went to Rome, where Frederick was to be Crown'd by the Pope in S. Peter's Church, but the Gates being shut lest any tumult should happen between the Citizens and the Soldiers, the Romans yet broke forth by Ponte S. Angelo and set upon the Germans (whom they look'd upon as of the Pope's side) and kill'd many. This unsuf∣ferable riot angred the Emperour so, that having brought his Army, which was encamp'd in the prati di Nerone, into the City, he drove the Romans from the Vatican, and slew and took Prisoners multitudes of them, till being appeased by the intercession of the Pope, he let those he had taken go free. But when afterward according to custom, the Pope and Emperour were to go together to the Lateran and found it would be unsafe because of the seditious humour of the Citizens, they went first to Magliana, and there crossing the River they pass'd by the way of Sabina and Ponte Lucano to the Lateran, and perform'd the Coronation with the usual Solemnity. While matters went thus at Rome those of Tivoli surrendred themselves to Frederick, professing a perfect submission; but when he understood that it was a part of S. Peter's Patrimony he restor'd it to Hadrian, and without any long stay return'd into Germany. The Pope also at the request of the great men of Puglia remov'd to Be∣nevent, where by his presence alone he regain'd from William to the Church a great part of his Kingdom. In the mean time Paloeologus an illustrious personage came Ambassadour from Emanuel II. Emperour of Constantinople, first by Sea to Ancona, and then by Land to Benevent, with an offer to the Pope of fifty thousand pounds in Gold, and a Pro∣mise to chase William out of Sicily, if upon the good success of the Expe∣dition, three maritime Cities of Puglia might be put into his possession; which no sooner came to William's Ear but he sued for the Pope's mercy, promising not onely to restore what he had taken from the Church, but to add somewhat more, and that he would employ his Force to con∣strain the rebellious Romans to their duty, if he might be honour'd with the Title of King of both Sicilies. The Pope could not grant this, be∣cause several Cardinals opposed it. Wherefore William getting a good Army together enters Puglia after an hostile manner, destroying all with fire and sword, and setting upon the Greeks and Apulians who were en∣camp'd near Brundusium, he easily overcame them, upon which those of Otranto and Puglia immediately made their submissions to him. The Pope then was very angry with those Cardinals who had opposed the Peace before, and took William into favour and gave him the Title of both Kingdoms, he having first taken an Oath, thereafter not to attempt to do any thing which might be a detriment to the Church of Rome. Matters being thus composed to his mind, the Pope taking his journey

through the Countries of Cassino, Marsi, Reati, Narin and Todi, came at last to Orvieto, which place he was the first Pope that made his habita∣tion and beautified. He was afterward by the earnest intreaties of the Romans persuaded to go to Rome, but being here teiz'd by the Consuls who would be setting up for liberty, he went to Arignano, where not long after he died, having been Pope four years and ten months, leaving the Estates of the Church in a very good condition; for he had built se∣veral Castles on the lake of S, Christina, and so fortified Radifano with a Wall and Citadel, that it was almost inexpugnable. The History of these times was written in an elegant style by Richard a Monk of Glugni, much quoted by other Writers. The body of Pope Hadrian being brought to Rome was buried in S. Peter's Church near the Sepulcre of Pope Eu∣genius.

ALEXANDER III.

ALEXANDER the Third, born at Siena, his Father's name Ranuccio, upon the death of Hadrian, was by the suf∣frages of twenty two Cardinals chosen Pope, though other three Cardinals set up Octavian, a Roman, Cardinal of S. Cle∣ment, by the name of Victor, which gave beginning to a Schism. But A∣lexander, lest the Church of Rome should suffer by the continuance there∣of, dispatch'd Legats to Frederick the Emperour then laying Siege to Cremona, to desire him to interpose his Imperial Authority in extinguish∣ing the Sedition. He return'd for Answer, that both Popes should be∣take themselves to Pavia whither he would come and hear their Case de∣bated. Upon the receit of this Answer Alexander went to Anagnia, and Octavian to Segna. This the Emperour took so heinously, that he sent two Bishops to Alexander, to cite him before a Council, by the name of Cardinal and not of Pope. Alexander stood upon his right and rejected them, whereupon they went to Octavian, and brought him to Pavia, with intent to set him up against Alexander, which they did; for holding a Council, Frederick confirms him in the Papacy, leads him sitting upon a white Horse through the streets of Pavia, and performs the usual adoration to him. Alexander was much mov'd at this, and having first admonish'd them to no purpose, he sets them both under an Anathema, and writes Letters to all the Princes and Nations of Christendom in justi∣fication of himself for so doing: Then returning to Rome in the second year of his Pontificate, he finds he had many Adversaries there, who took the boldness to oppose him, because Frederick's Army had now pos∣sess'd themselves of all St. Peter's Patrimony but Orvieto and Anagnia. Wherefore Alexander by the persuasion of King Philip of France, went to Terracina, and there embark'd in a Ship provided for him by Order of William King of Sicily, and arriv'd in France, where in a Council holden at Clermont he pronounc'd the Anathema before laid upon the Emperour and Octavian. While these things were doing in Europe, Baldwin III. died at Jerusalem, and his Brother Almeric step'd into the Throne, lest if an Interregnum should have been among so barbarous and treacherous

a People, it might have given occasion to some mischievous revolution; and having settled his affairs for the time, he led his Army against the Egyptians, and defeated their General Drogon with a great slaughter, he laid Siege to Alexandria, of which Tiracino Lieutenant to the Soldan of the Saracens, had traiterously made himself Lord; which Siege he urg'd on with so great diligence that the Alexandrians could hold out no longer and yet were not willing to be made subject to the Christians, but of∣fer'd to yield upon condition they might be freed of this new Lord, and be restor'd to the Dominion of the Soldan; Almeric was content, and receiving a vast sum of Money redeliver'd the City to the Soldan, who ungratefully put off the performance of the full bargain, which caused Almeric to march against him and to lay Siege to Cairo. Mean time in Europe Frederick acts very tyrannically, for he sack'd Tortono and laid Milan even with the ground (from whence he translated the bodies of the Magi to Cologn, of which, I think, Rodolphus was then Arch Bi∣shop) and did great mischief to the Cremoneses. Upon this those of Ve∣rona, Vicenza, Padoua, and Venice resolv'd unanimously to stop all man∣ner of assistance that Frederick should stand in need of, while he thus harass'd Lombardy. This angred Frederick so that he was about to in∣vest Verona with his Army, but hearing that the other Cities had sent thither their Auxiliary Troops, he retreated to Pavia; from whence by Letters and Ambassadours he exhorted the King of France, that to put an end to the Schism, he would bring Alexander before a general Council, where also he would appear with Victor. The City of Dyon, situate where the River Savo divides France from Germany was the place ap∣pointed for the Council, whither Frederick (having composed his Af∣fairs in Italy for a time) arriv'd, together with Octavian and the Kings of Scotland and Bohemia, and attended by great numbers of armed Men. But when Alexander refused to go to that Council which himself did not call, but had begun another at Tours, Frederick full of rage and threats returns into Germany, having sent Octavian into Italy, intending speedily to follow him; but he dying at Luca, Guy of Crema was set up for Anti-Pope in his stead. The Romans had now chosen Consuls who were Friends to Alexander, they immediatey recall him out of France, and he taking Ship arrives first in Sicily, and thence comes to Rome, where he was very kindly receiv'd with universal acclamations; and the People of Lombardy were by the arrival of Alexander put in hopes of retrieving their liberty, so that they took up Arms against Frederic who had used them so tyrannically, and drove several of his Garrisons out of their Towns, An. Dom. 1165. Frederic hereupon marches with a numerous Army into Italy, and without doing damage to any one, contrary to all expectation , enters the Territory of Bononia, where he divides his Army, and sends some Battalions to Luca, to be a Guard to the Anti-Pope who then resided there, whilst he invests Ancona with his Army, and after a Siege of some time takes it. In the mean time the associated Cities of Lombardy re-edifie Milan and fortifie it, and receive those of Lodi, who had been Enemies to the Milaneses, into their Confederacy, the more to enable them to resist Frederick, if he should invade them: But Frederick had somewhat of greater moment to think of; for upon the death of William the Norman King of Sicily, Emanuel Emperour of Greece had sent Ambassadours to the Pope to offer him a great Army to

be employ'd against Frederick and to promise a perfect agreement of all the Grecians with the Church of Rome, that so the Eastern and Western Churches might be all one, if he would suffer the Roman Empire then di∣vided, to be again reduc'd into one body. What Answer these Ambas∣sadours receiv'd is not certain, for by reason of a War then begun be∣tween the Romans and those of Tusculum and Alba, the Pope could not give them a positive resolution. The cause of this was that the Romans being too rigorous in the exaction of their Gabels, the Tusculans and Al∣bans denied to pay them, which enraged the People of Rome so, that they march'd out contrary to the Pope's will, against them tumultuously; but at that time Raino, (who had been sttip'd of the Dukedom of Puglia by Roger) bore the chief sway among the Tusculans, a Man well skill'd in the Arts of War, who sending for the German Soldiers from Nepi and Su∣tri, made so great a slaughter among the Romans, that they afterwards had much ado to defend their Walls, much less could they meet an Ene∣my in the Field. Frederick took this occasion to avenge the wrongs (as he call'd 'em) which Alexander had done him, and leaving Ancona leads his Army to Rome, and encamps in the Prati di Nerone, from whence he made an Attack upon the Vatican Suburb, but was stoutly repell'd by the Friends of Alexander. The next day he attempted to set fire to S. Peter's Church, and had effected it, if those who had the care of it would have suffered it, and the Pope not thinking himself safe in the Lateran, into which he saw the Germans would soon enter, remov'd to the House of the Frangipani near the Palladio. William King of Si∣cily, Son of the Great William, hearing of the Pope's danger, sent him a good sum of Money and two Gallies well man'd; which came in good time, for Frederick having promised Peace to the Romans, was very ur∣gent with them, of the two Popes to chuse the more worthy, and to de∣pose and reject the other, which when Alexander knew must be done as the Emperour should please, he embark'd in the Gallies and escap'd first to Gaieta, and from thence to Benevent. Frederick afterward was driven from the City by a Plague of which both Citizens and Soldiers died like Sheep, and as he march'd back through Lombardy, the Army of the Confederate Cities met him, and urg'd him to a Battel, which he care∣fully declin'd and arriv'd in Germany. When he was departed, the As∣sociates built a City at their common charge near Roueretto upon the River Taro, which from the name of the Pope they call'd Alexandria, to inhabit which from all the Cities they sent fifteen thousand Men, divi∣ding the ground equally among 'em, and setting out the dimensions of their Streets and Houses. The Romans yet regretted the slaughter made among 'em by the Tusculans and their Friends, and therefore upon the de∣parture of Frederick they took Alba and demolish'd it, and had done the like by Tusculum, if the Pope had not terrified them with Threats and Anathema's from doing so great a mischief. At this time Emanuel Em∣perour of Constantinople sent other Ambassadours with greater Promises than before, if the Pope could be brought to comply with his desire; to whom Alexander gave this Answer, that he was not willing to unite what his Predecessors had thought good industriously to disjoin. In the mean time Guy the Anti-Pope died in S. Peter's Church, which was still strongly garrison'd by Frederick, in whose room the seditious substituted John a Hungarian, Abbat of Sirmio, who had before the re∣pute

of a Thief; to him Raino, (who was afraid of the Romans upon ac∣count of the mischief he had formerly done them) deliver'd up Tuscu∣lum, upon condition that he should have Monte-fiascone in lieu of it; but when Raino went to take possession of it, the Inhabitants would not re∣ceive him, neither would the Tusculans submit to the Anti-Pope, upon which he return'd to Tusculum, but was forbidden entrance. From thence therefore he went to Alexius who was then at Veruli, and surren∣dred to him all his Title to the place, which when the Tusculans heard up∣on mature deliberation by a publick Decree they acknowledg'd their sub∣jection to the Pope, and receiv'd him. Here it was that the Ambassa∣dours of Henry King of England were heard, when they came to clear their King of the false Accusation of having conspir'd the death of S. Tho∣mas Arch-bishop of Canterbury. But the Pope not easily giving credit to the King's Ambassadours, sent two Cardinals into England with ple∣nary Power to examine the matter; to whom Henry paid so great re∣spect, that though he was engag'd in a War with Ireland, yet he came as far as Normandy to meet 'em. Upon debating the case, it came to this end, that Henry should by an Oath, (because the matter of fact was not clear) purge himself, and promise to do Penance for the murther of that holy Man; of which though he were not guilty nor conscious, yet it seem'd that the great spite and grudg he bore him in his life-time, had given some occasion to the assassination; and moreover, that he should raise and maintain two hundred Soldiers for a year to assist the Christians in the Holy Land; that he should within three years himself, with what force he could raise, undertake an Expedition to the same pur∣pose: that he should conserve the Ecclesiastical immunities in his Realm, and not oppose any Appeals that might be made by his Subjects to the Court of Rome. All these Conditions he having sworn to per∣form, he had (and, he deserv'd it) the right and Title to the Crown of England confer'd upon him and his Heirs, with the Pope's consent. Hence it may be observ'd, that all the English Kings acknowledg them∣selves to have receiv'd the Title to their Realms of the Pope of Rome. But Alexander having long strugled with the Romans, offered them, if they would admit him into the City, to leave the whole Civil Govern∣ment to their own managery, and to intermeddle onely in religious matters; but this would not be granted by them, so he retir'd to Segna, and there being inform'd by the English Ambassadours of the Miracles wrought by S. Thomas [Becket] he canoniz'd him. Frederick now returning into Italy by Moncenisi, took Seculia by treachery and de∣molish'd it; he took also Asti which surrendered for fear, and laid close Siege four months to Alexandria, but receiv'd so much loss from the Sallies of the besieged, that he grew weary of it and on Easter day rose up from before it and went to Pavia; where a Treaty for the peace of Italy was carried on, by the mediation of the Pope, which the Vene∣tians were willing to embrace; who though they had been favourers of Emanuel before, yet had receiv'd from him a horrid affront contrary to the Law of Nations; for he had with red hot plates of Brass blinded their Ambassadour Henry Dandalo by holding them before his Eyes. Mean time Almeric King of Jerusalem raised his Siege from before Cairo, though he was not without hopes of carrying the place, but was bought off with a great sum of Money, and afterward march'd against Ascalon;

but was forc'd to quit that Expedition, being in great want of provisions, and finding his Soldiers to be very much tired and broken with the great and tedious toils of War they had undergone. He did not long outlive his return, but died and left his Kingdom to his Son Baldwin, who though he labour'd with a dangerous Leprosie, yet he manag'd his Government with great constancy and Wisdom. Alexander thinking now to enjoy a perfect Peace, made the new City of Alexandria a Bi∣shops Sea, An. Dom. 1177. but soon after Frederick re-enters Italy with great Forces and put all into confusion, till the Milaneses with the joint forces of the Confederates so broke his Troops with frequent Onsets that in one of them Frederick's Horse was kill'd under him and he nar∣rowly scap'd with life himself; many of those of Pavia and Como being on his side were lost. The Bishop of Pavia also because he took the Emperour's part, was by the Pope deprived of his Pall and the honour of bearing the Cross. Frederic's great Men thought these mischiefs happen'd to 'em, because they persecuted the Church of God, and open∣ly threatned to return into their own Country and leave that wicked Warfare, except he would be reconcil'd to the Pope speedily. A Treaty then was begun for the Peace of Italy; when Saladine a Person of great courage succeeded Noradine then deceased, in the Empire of the Sara∣cens, who having taken and slain the King of Egypt, added that Country and Syria to his Dominion; not that his success was alike when he fought with the Christians, being defeated by Baldwin in two Battels, one at Ascalon and another at Tiberias; but soon after gathering his forces together, he march'd into Cilicia, to meet with Emanuel, whose Army by a feigned flight he drew into narrow and difficult ways, where he set upon 'em and vanquish'd 'em, taking the Emperour Prisoner, whom he set at large again, upon condition that he should quit what∣soever he had taken in Asia. At this time Alexander was met at Venice by Frederic, there to treat of a Peace, where in S. Mark's Porch the Emperour kiss'd the Pope's feet; and from thence they went together to the high Altar, and having perform'd the mutual Ceremonies of Civi∣lity, they discours'd a great while upon the Articles of the Peace, which the next day was concluded. Hence the Emperour with the good leave of the Pope, departed first to Ravenna, and then to Bertinoro, which Town he design'd to keep in his hands, because of the commodiousness of its situation, but the Pope at last persuaded him to restore it to the Church. Alexander also left Venice, (having first made several Presents and conferr'd many honours upon that State for the services they had done him) and with thirteen Gallies of William King of Sicily and four of the Venetians, he sail'd first to Siponto and from thence to Troia, and Benevent, and then passing S. Germano he went to Anagni; where he staid not long but came to Tusculum, to treat with the Romans about deposing the Consuls they had set up before a Peace should be concluded; but be∣cause the Consuls had been so chosen for fifty years, it was found to be a difficult thing to alter the custom; wherefore they agreed that thereafter no one that was chosen Consul should enter upon his Office, till he had taken an Oath to be dictated by the Pope, that he would be true to the Church of Rome and never attempt any thing that should be a violation of the Pontifical Dignity. Thus all matters being settled, the Pope went the third time to Rome, all the great Men of the City coming forth to at∣tend

and congratulate him; soon after he held a Council in the Lateran, partly to find a way to reform the great licentiousness of that Court, but chiefly that it might be decreed, that no Man under pain of an A∣nathema should furnish the Infidels with Iron, Wood or any sort of Arms. At this time died Emanuel Emperour of Constantinople, leaving his Son Alexius heir of his Empire, under the Guardianship of Andronicus, one of the blood Royal, who for some years shew'd great prudence and fide∣lity in his publick Administrations; and by his consent the young Em∣perour was married to Agnes Daughter to Philip King of France. Bald∣win IV. also King of Jerusalem, to strengthen himself by the Alliance, married his Sister Sibyl to William surnam'd Long-sword, Marquess of Montferrat, an excellent Soldier, not doubting but that upon occasion William and other Princes of Christendom would come to his assistance if his affairs were in any danger. Mean time Alexander after having undergone so many and continual labours, when now he seem'd to be at rest from all his troubles, died at Rome when he had been Pope twenty one years nineteen days, having yet liv'd to see four Anti-Popes go be∣fore him, who with their factions had almost destroy'd the Church of Rome.

LƲCIƲS III.

LƲCIƲS the Third, a Tuscan, of a noble Family of the City of Lucca, was made Pope by general consent, at the time when Andronicus (who we told you was Guardian to Alexius, having driven out the Latins who favour'd the young Empe∣rour and drown'd him in the Sea, where he was wont for his recreation carelesly sometimes to venture in a little Bark) usurp'd the Empire of Con∣stantinople; and to secure his Empire thus unjustly gotten, he added a∣nother great wickedness, for in a short time he cut off all the Nobility whose Virtue rendred them suspected to him. Now also William surna∣med Long-sword dying at Jerusalem, King Baldwin taking care of his Ne∣phew, married his Sister Sibyl again to Guy of Lusignan, a Picard, upon condition, that after his own decease Guy should enjoy the Kingdom du∣ring the nonage of his Nephew Baldwin, after which he should resign it to him. All which was confirm'd by the Pope's Authority, who thought it very necessary for the Christian Cause, that the Princes of Asia should be knit together with the strictest bonds of Amity and Friendship, to e∣nable them the better to resist the insults of the Turks and Saracens: but he was quickly after expell'd the City of Rome, while by the favour of some Citizens he attempted to abolish the Office of the Consuls, and his Friends in that affair being taken had their Eyes put out. Upon this horrid affront the Pope betook himself to Verona and call'd a Council, where the exorbitant pride and licentiousness of the Romans was con∣demned, and all Christian Princes were exhorted to afford assistance to the holy War; especially because Saladine had entred and wasted the Territories of Jerusalem, encouraged by the dissension among the Chri∣stian Commanders; who had turn'd out Guy of Lusignan for his Arro∣gance,

from the Government, and had substituted Bertrand Count of Tri∣poli, Protector in his room, so that all things seem'd to threaten a Civil War. But the Pope incessantly persuaded them by Letters and Am∣bassadours to lay by their Animosities, and with one heart and the same mind to oppose the common Enemy, at least so long as till fresh Auxiliary forces could be sent to 'em. For by the instance of Heraclius Patriarch of Jerusalem, who came for that purpose first to Verona, and thence went to Philip King of France upon the same Errand, a good number of Sol∣diers under the Cross were listed and sent away: But William King of Sicily in an ill time, designing to revenge the wrongs offered to the La∣tins by Andronicus Emperour of Constantinople, passing into Greece with his Army, confounded all things; for he took Thessalonica the chief City of Macedonia, by storm, and harassing many other of his Territories he took and plundered several Cities, Adronicus not appearing against him, being hated of God and Man, for the many murthers and banishments he had been the Author of. The Constantinopolitans were hereby re∣duc'd to necessity and forc'd to fetch from Pelopennesus, and to set up for Emperour one Isaac who was of the blood Royal; and he overthrew Andronicus in Battel, took him, and with various Tortures put him to death. Upon which it became easie for Pope Lucius to persuade King William to make Peace with Isaac and with Promises and Rewards to prevail with him to turn his Arms against the Asians; but while this matter was transacting by Internuntio's this excellent Pope died in the fourth year second month and eighteenth day of his Papacy, at Verona and was buried with great Pomp before the Altar of the Cathedral Church. This Pope had a great regard for his own Country and conser'd upon it many advantages both Civil and Spiritual before he died; particularly he obtain'd of Frederick the Emperour with whom he all his time kept a peaceable correspondence, that the Mony of Lucca onely should be current in Tuscany, as that of Pavia with the Imperial stamp went onely among the Lombards, which People by the means of this Pope were re∣concil'd to the Emperour. Ptolomy of Lucca writes that there flourish'd at this time, Peter Comestor, who wrote the History of both Testaments, and Joachim an Abbat of a Monastery which himself built at Calabria, famous for his Learning and for his skill in Divination, which he used to practise in doubtful and enigmatical terms.

ƲRBAN III.

URBAN the Third, a Milanese, his Father's name was John, of the Family of Crivellis was made Pope, applied himself to compose the differences between the Christian Princes, lest they should be destroy'd by the Infidels who would make use of that opportunity. For Baldwin IV. dying of a Leprosie, the Count of Tripoli who was made Guardian to Baldwin V. could not enter upon his charge, because Sibyl the Child's Mother and Guy of Lusignan her second Husband, opposed him. The Child how∣ever did not long outlive his Uncle, but died within eight months af∣ter

him, whose death his Mother kept secret so long as till what with gifts and what with good words she had brought over the Patriarch and the chief Men to her side, to make Guy their King. This Raimund Count of Tripoli highly resented, and that he might the more easily work his revenge, he made a Truce with Saladine; by which means the Provinces of Tripoli, Tiberias and Galilee were torn from the Christians; for they were then subject to Raimund in right of his Wife whom he had newly married; and lest a pretence for making War (which Saladine earnestly sought) should be wanting to him, the Prince of Monreal, a Christian, in whose Dominion was a great part of the Country beyond Jordan, and who was wont to supply in great abundance Jerusalem with Corn, inconsiderately broke the Truce with him. Saladine looking upon the time to be come at last which he had so long desired, raised a great Army of Horse and Foot, and stoutly assaulted Ptolemais then garison'd by the Templers. In this Action the Templers got the better, but with the loss of their choicest Men; for their grand Master and many other of their most skilful and couragious Soldiers were slain. Saladine hereup∣on reinforces his Army, and taking courage from their distress, presses more hardly upon them. Raymund observing this and not thinking good to give too much credit to Saladine, leaves his Wife at Tiberias and re∣turning to Tripoli renews his friendship with King Guy, slighting his Treaty before had with the Barbarians: so that Saladine having a fair occasion to make War upon him, draws off from Ptolemais and marches towards Tiberias. All the Christians then, but especially the Templers, urging that their Army might march against Saladine, King Guy accor∣dingly sets upon him in his Camp, which was pitch'd in a pleasant place and well-watered, but was repulsed, after which he encamping in an incommodious and extream dry ground where the Christians suffer∣ed much by thirst, himself was forc'd to fight and was defeated with great slaughter. In this unfortunate Battel most of the Christian Com∣manders were taken Prisoners, as was also King Guy and the Master of the Templers; many of whom were afterwards beheaded. Saladine ha∣ving gain'd this Victory, marches to Acon, which was immediately sur∣rendred by the Christians, who were permitted to depart onely with their Clothes, and thence following his good fortune, he takes Berylus, Byblos and all the Towns upon the Sea-coast; those of Ascalon onely trusting to the strength of their fortifications, told him they would not yield to him except he were first possess'd of Jerusalem. But the excellent temper and faithfulness of Saladine did the Christians much harm; for he was so affable to every one, that Subjection to him was a desireable condition. He, notwithstanding the big words of the Ascalonites, in∣vests the place and after a Siege of ten days had it deliver'd up to him, upon condition that he would set at liberty King Guy and the Master of the Templers who were then his Prisoners. That which made Saladine thus hasten the Surrender of this place, was, he heard that Conrade Mar∣quess of Montferrat was arriv'd at Tyre with the Fleet of Isaac Emperor of Constantinople, (whose Sister he had lately married) under his Com∣mand; and that William King of Sicily was expected in a short time with forty Gallies. The tidings of these glorious successes of Saladine against the Christians coming to the Turks in the lesser Asia, so fill'd 'em with emulation, that they march'd against Laodicea and took it, and

from thence they invaded the Territories of Antioch; but they were there vanquish'd by the Christians with as great loss on their side as the Christians suffered from Saladine. At this time Saladine had in∣vested Jerusalem and carried on the Siege with so great diligence, that those who were in Garison being out of hopes of succour, (after the taking of it by the Christians under Godfrey eighty eight years) deli∣ver'd it up, on condition that whosoever should be minded to leave the City should go freely, with so much and no more than they could car∣ry on their shoulders. The Christians who came forth of it went some to Tyre, some to Antioch, and some to Alexandria; from whence many sail'd with the Sicilian Fleet into Italy. Saladine having entred Jerusa∣lem, first threw down the Bells out of the Steeples, and then profan'd all the Churches, but Solomon's Temple, which 'tis said, he caused to be washt with Rose-Water before he would enter it. The Asiatic, Sy∣rian, Armenian, Jacobite, Georgian and Greek Christians staid in Jerusa∣lem by the permission of Saladine, who leaving there a strong Garison, took his way with great speed towards Tyre, the defence whereof by common consent and with the joint Forces was entrusted with William, who with the help of the Sicilian Fleet gave Saladine a repulse; but when the news came that that valiant Prince was going to lay Siege to Antioch, the Pope (who had labour'd with his utmost might to hinder the loss of Jerusalem) going to Venice to take care to get a Fleet toge∣ther for the relief of it, died in his Journey at Ferrara of grief for the calamity of the Christians, having sate in S. Peter's Chair one year ten months and twenty five days.

GREGORY VIII.

GREGORY the Eight, a Beneventan, was created Pope by universal consent, and immediately dispatch'd away Nuntio's and sent Letters to all Christian Princes, exhorting them to join with him with their utmost Power to raise forces both by Sea and Land, to attempt the recovery of Jerusalem out of the hands of the Enemy; which great end the better to carry on, he went to Pisa, there to compose some differences between the Pisans and Genoeses, with design to excite them (both being powerful by Sea) to that holy Expedition. But whilst this good Man perplex'd himself with over∣much care in this matter, he died at Pisa, the fifty seventh day of his Pontificate.

CLEMENT III.

CLEMENT the Third, a Roman, Son of John, surnam'd the Scholar, as soon as he was made Pope, sent forth a Bull to encourage Men to go to the Holy War; for Saladine follow∣ing the course of his Victories had taken twenty five Towns in the Principality of Antioch, and at last had by bribing the Patriarch rendred himself Master of Antioch it self. This gave the alarm to the Christian Princes, so that now complying with the Pope's exhortations they raised Men; the chief of those who engaged in the Expedition were the Emperour Frederic, Philip King of France, Richard King of England, and Otho Duke of Burgundy, beside many Arch-bishops and Bishops who accompanied them. The Venetians and Pisans set forth their several Fleets well equip'd; that of Venice was under the command of the Arch-bishop of Ravenna, and that of Pisa under their own Arch-bishop: And William King of Sicily, having clear'd the Sea of Pirates, took care to supply them by the way out of Puglia and Sicily with all sorts of Pro∣visions. Beside these, the Friselanders, Danes and Flemings with a Fleet of fifty Gallies landing on the African shore, did the Saracens much mis∣chief, taking and plundering Siluma one of their Cities. Bela also King of Poland out of good will to the Christian Cause, made Peace with the Hungarians, that so the passage through that Country might be more easie and safe for those who were to take their way through it to this great Expedition. At last they all arriv'd at Tyre, and from thence they march'd unanimously to Ptolemais and besieg'd it; where Saladine with a great Army came and beat up their quarters, so that having the Enemy before them and behind, they were forc'd to fight. The Battel was long and bloody, and the Victory inclin'd to the Christians side, when the mis∣chance of a Horse slipping out of the hand of a common Soldier, gave them an occasion of flight, our Men thinking that the Saracens had got the better: but Geoffrey of Lusignan who was left to guard the Camp, in the nick of time giving a brisk Onset shock'd their pursuit and gave the Christians an opportunity to rally. However 'tis certain the Chri∣stians lost two thousand men that day; beside that the Master of the Templers and Andrew Earl of Bremen died afterward of their wounds. In the mean time the Siege lasting long the Christians were reduc'd to so great a want of all things, that they were forc'd to procure Victuals of the Enemy: which Saladine having notice of, laid hold on the opportu∣nity, and deserted his Camp which he left without any Guard, but fur∣nish'd with all manner of necessaries; which when the Christians alto∣gether in disorder enter'd and fell to plundering, Saladine return'd and kill'd many of them ere they were aware or prepared to receive him. Yet did not the Christians quit this tedious and toilsom Siege; though to their other distresses this was added, that a Dysentery rag'd in their Camp, of which Disease Sibyl the Wife of Guy with four Sons which she had by him, all died. While matters went thus in Asia, William King of Sicily died at Palermo, not leaving behind him any lawful Heir, so

that that Kingdom fell to the Church; but the Noblemen of the Island set up Tancred in his room, natural Son of Roger the Norman by a Concu∣bine, a Man of so great cowardize and sloth, that William would not be∣lieve him to be Roger's Bastard. Pope Clement not willing to lose his right, sends away an Army thither with all speed, between whom and Tancred who opposed them, the Country was fill'd with slaughters and outrages. Frederic the Emperour was now by the way of Hungary and Thrace, march'd with his Army as far as Constantinople, in order to advance against the Enemies of Christ, where Isaac the Emperour of the Greeks fearing his Power, persuaded him to cross the Bosporus, which he did; and Clement still hastening him on by Letters and Nuntio's, he sate down before Philomena a City of the Turks and took it; then he wasted the Country about Iconium, and possess'd himself of all Armenia minor; but going one time into a rapid stream to wash himself without regarding the depth, he was drown'd; and his Soldiers retreating towards Antioch either were lost or died, so that his Army came to nothing. The two Kings, Philip and Richard having pass'd the Gallic and Tyrrhene Seas ar∣riv'd together at Messina, after which they met with different fortune: for Philip had a good Voyage and coming safe to Ptolemais, brought great strength and courage to the Christian forces; but Richard being born by contrary Winds to the coast of Cyprus, and being by the Greeks denied the liberty of landing, he entred the Island by force, and conquering it, he plac'd therein Garisons of his own, and then went to Ptolemais. That City was then stoutly attack'd, but Saladine had put in it so strong a Garison, that with their frequent Sallies they did the Christians much damage. Pope Clement now thought good to defer his Controversie with Tancred, till the Christians should have more success against the Saracens, and betook himself to regulate some Ecclesiastical Affairs, and with great severity animadverted upon the scandalous lives of Clergy∣men. Moreover, he built the Monastery of S. Laurence without the Walls, and with great expence repair'd the Lateran Palace and adorn'd the Church there with excellent Mosaic work: not long after dying, when he had been Pope three years and five months, and was buried in the Lateran Church, with great Funeral Pomp.

CELESTINE III.

CELESTINE the Third, a Roman, Son of Peter, sur∣nam'd Bubo, succeeded to the Chair, who grudging that Tancred should enjoy the Kingdom of Sicily, secretly gets away Constantia, (Daughter to the late King Roger) out of a Nunnery at Palermo, and though she was under the Vow of Chastity, yet granting her the Apostostical Dispensation, gives her to Wife to Henry VI. Son of Frederic Barbarossa, upon these terms: that he should be empowered to attempt the recovery of both the Sici∣lies, which he should enjoy in the name of a Dowry with his said Wife, paying a yearly tribute to the Pope, as Feudatary of the Church. Henry was so sensible of this extraordinary kindness of the Pope, that he re∣stor'd

to him Tusculum, which he had before strengthen'd with a good Garison, which Celestine immediately bestowing upon the Romans, they so spoil'd and ruin'd it, that the very stones of the demolish'd City were brought to Rome, and many of them were for a long time to be seen in the Campidoglio, as Monuments of this great devastation. Henry and his Wife Constantia laying Siege to Naples, were forc'd to raise it by rea∣son of a Plague which rag'd in their Army; but the Christians who had now for two years besieg'd Ptolemais, had it surrendred to them upon con∣dition, that they (restoring that piece of our Lord's Cross, which we before told you was lost) should march out freely, every Man with his own Clothes; but when they could not make good the agreement, be∣cause the piece of the Cross was not to be found, Richard put many of the Barbarians to death. Saladine was so dismay'd at these losses, that despairing of being able to defend them all, he dismantled several Cities in that Region and was upon the point of delivering up Jerusalem itself, if it had not been for a difference which arose between Philip and Ri∣chard concerning Precedency; upon which Philip pretending himself sick, departed home from Asia. Richard then apply'd himself more vi∣gorously to the War, though at this time Conrade of Montferrat was as∣sassinated in the Market-place of Tyre, by two Saracen Ruffians, who had bound themselves under an Oath and Vow to destroy all the Ene∣mies of their Religion after the same manner; but as they ran away they were caught and put to death with the most exquisite Torments; and Henry Earl of Champagne taking Queen Isabel to Wife, entred upon the Dominion of Tyre. Richard giving some fair words to Guy of Lusig∣nan, persuaded him to pass over to him his Kingdom of Jerusalem, (which the Kings of England still put among their Titles,) and herewith taking courage, he march'd his Army to beleaguer the City of Jerusa∣lem; but Saladine in his Journey falling in with his Rear, forc'd him to a Battel in a very disadvantageous place, in which though he at last came off Conqueror, yet it was with great loss of men. Saladine after this encamp'd not far from Bethlehem, in a commodious place to inter∣cept any manner of Provisions that might be sent from Egypt to the Christian Army as they should lie before Jerusalem; wherefore and be∣cause the Winter was coming on, Richard puts off his designs for this so necessary Siege, (the Pope yet urging him and continually supplying him with Money) and retreats to Ascalon, which as well as Gaza he for∣tifies again; they having before been slighted by Saladine. In the mean time the Sea-forces by degrees leave him, and the Pisans sailing into the Adriatic, seiz'd Pola, with intent to Winter there; but the Venetians re∣inforcing their own Fleet, set upon 'em, took the Place and sack'd it, and drove out the Pisans, and had pursued them to extremity, if Celestine out of care for the good of Christendom, had not mediated between them. Spring now came on and Richard was preparing for the Siege of Jerusalem, when on a sudden news was brought him, that King Philip had invaded Normandy, and intended to pass into England, to procure that Kingdom for his Brother John. Richard then laid by those thoughts and strook up a Peace with Saladine upon these Articles; That Saladine should enjoy all but Tyre and Ptolemais; to which with their Territo∣ries remaining in the hands of the Christians he should give no mole∣station. Richard having thus settled Affairs there, returning into Europe,

was taken by his Enemies, from whom he was ransom'd with a vast sum of Money, and at last arriving in England, he had many a Battel with the King of France, much against the Pope's mind, who was griev'd that so fierce a War should be raised among Christians at so unseasonable a time, when Saladine being now dead, it was thought to have been a very fit time to have recovered Jerusalem. It is reported of that illu∣strious Prince, that one Ceremony at his Funeral was this: His Shirt was hung upon the end of a Pike and carried before the Corps, and one with a loud Voice cryed;

Behold, Saladine the mighty Lord of Asia, of all his Realms and of all his Wealth, takes no more than this along with him.

A spectacle well befitting so great a Man, to whom no∣thing was wanting, but the Character of a Christian, to have rendred him a most consummate Prince. Upon the death of Saladine, as was said before, Celestine had fresh hopes, that Jerusalem might be regain'd, and so urg'd the Emperour Henry, who (Tancred being dead) suc∣ceeded to the Kingdom of Sicily, to undertake the Enterprize, that though he could not go in person, yet he sent thither with great speed a good Army under the Arch-bishop of Mentz and the Duke of Saxony. The King of France would have gone too, but that the Saracens who inhabited Mauritania [now the Moors] had cross'd the Streights and having taken the King of Castile Prisoner, had pos∣sess'd themselves of that part of Spain now call'd Granado; where the French fear'd they would hardly continue long quiet but go near to infest the neighbouring Nations, and therefore would not draw their forces out of Europe. The Germans however arriving in Asia, fortified Berylus, which had been deserted by the Saracens, and rais'd their Siege from before Joppa, from whence when they were about to go to Jerusa∣lem, Celestine this most holy Pope, who never let slip any opportunity for the recovery of the Holy Land, died, upon which they desisted. Notwithstanding all these troubles and these great charges of War, our Pope built two Palaces, one near S. Peter's, the other near S. John in the Lateran, fit for the reception of Popes. The brasen Gates yet re∣maining in the Lateran over against the Sancta Sanctorum, which were made by his Order and at his charge. Moreover, he made Viterbo a City, raising the Church there to a Bishops Sea, to which Diocese he added Toscanella and Centum-cellae. Celestine died when he had been Pope six years seven months and eleven days, to the great grief of all good Men, and was buried in St. Peter's Church.

INNOCENT III.

INNOCENT the Third, born in Anagni, Son of Trasi∣mund of the Family of the Conti, was for his great Learn∣ing and many Virtues made a Cardinal by Celestine, and upon his death was by general consent chosen Pope. Which he had no sooner arriv'd to, but he applied his thoughts to the Holy War, and by Letters, Messengers, large Promises and Largesses endeavour'd to contain the Germans within the bounds of their duty,

who after the decease of their Emperour Henry were all in a mutiny: but 'twas to no purpose, for they disdaining any Commander, left Asia and to the extream damage of the Christian Cause, return'd to Europe; whereby those of Joppa especially suffered most, for being destitute of help, the Turks and Saracens came upon 'em, and while they were about to yield, they took the City by force and cut them all off, rasing it to the ground. In Germany also all things seem'd to threaten confusion, some of the Electors stickling hard for Otho Duke of Saxony, others standing resolutely for Philip a German, Duke of Tuscany, who was left, by Henry upon his death bed, Guardian to his young Son: And to im∣prove this mischief to the height, the King of France took part with Philip and the King of England was for Otho. Innocent then to obviate the impending miseries that must follow upon such a state of Affairs, confirms Otho in the Empire, as duly elected by those who had just suf∣frage. Philip notwithstanding would not lay down his pretensions, but strengthen'd himself with good Garisons both in Tuscany in Italy, and Schwaben in Germany. The like with a more than Womanly fortitude also did Constantia, the relict of Henry, in Sicily, on the behalf of her Son Frederic II. yet a Child, rendring the Frontier-places defensible against any Enemy. Though these Animosities every day grew higher, yet In∣nocent still thought of renewing the War in the Holy Land, and to that Expedition he stir'd up Boniface Marquess of Montferrat, Baldwin Earl of Flanders, Henry Count S. Paul and Lewis of Savoy; who all arriving at Venice, could not persuade that State to rig out their Fleet for the Ser∣vice, till they had all promised to recover Zara for them, which again was revolted to the Hungarians; the Fleet then being fitted out, they first routed those of Trieste who piratically infested the Sea, and then after a long Siege re-took Zara. While these things were acted in the Adriatic, Alexius dethrones his Brother Isaac Emperor of Constantinople, (who had been a good Friend to the Latins) and putting out his Eyes throws him in Prison. But his young Son Alexius escap'd by flight to the Christian Camp, and begs the assistance of those Commanders for his Father against the Usurper, which they consented to give him, on condi∣tion, that his end being atchiev'd, the Greek Church should be subjected to the Latin, and that thirty thousand Marks of Gold should be paid for the damage which Emanuel the late Emperour had done to the French and Venetians; and thus when they had agreed, they set sail from Zara and passing by Candy, that Island submitted itself, which young Alexius bestow'd upon his Kinsman Boniface of Montferrat. Hence they pro∣ceeded to Constantinople, which while they besieged by Sea and Land, Theodore Lascari Son-in-law to Alexius endeavouring to sally forth, was driven back, and the City after two days close Siege was taken by storm, Alexius got away in the night, leaving behind him a great quantity of Gold in the custody of Irene, a Nun. Isaac the Father with his Son A∣lexius then entred the City, but liv'd not long after; the Father dying of sickness and the Son being poison'd. Upon this Boniface of Montferrat gets the Kingdom of Thessaly, but wanting Money he was persuaded by Baldwin to sell Candy to the Venetians, which he did, and having receiv'd a vast sum for it, he beleaguer'd Adrianople then opprest by the Usurper; but this gave so much distast to the Walachians who live on the further side of the Danube and to the Bulgarians, that fearing the number of

his Enemies, he took his way to Constantinople, intending to go meet the Turkish Sultan of Iconium, who having taken the City Satellia from the Greeks; did much and continually incommode the Christians. Innocent encompass'd thus with Enemies raised what Forces soever he could to re∣inforce from time to time our Armies: but when he heard that Hilmino∣line a Saracen, with a great Fleet had cross'd the Streights into Spain and had sate down with his Army before Toledo, he publish'd a Bull inciting all those that could bear Arms to oppose this torrent; whereupon num∣bers of French men got together in order to assist the Spaniards. but per∣ceiving they were not welcome to them, they return'd home; so that Hilminoline in a short time over-run all Spain after a hostile manner, and came as far as Arles and Avignon, filling all places where he came with spoil and slaughter. This Calamity roused the four Kings of Spain, that is, of Castile, Aragon, Portugal and Navarre, so that, joyning their forces together, they set upon the Saracens and gave them a total rout, leaving nothing to 'em of what they had but onely Granado. At this time sprung up a Heresie at Tholouse, which by Innocent's means, the blessed Dominic, (who was afterwards made a Saint) repress'd, with the aid of Simon Montfort; for it had gone so far, that he had need of the help of the Arm of Flesh as well as of Arguments and spiritual Weapons. Mean time Otho Emperour of the Romans was every where worsted by Philip, and at last besieg'd by him in the City of Cologn, where he making in Person a successless Sally, the Citizens shut him out and surrendred to Philip, who yet did not long out-live the Action, being soon after trea∣cherously made away by the Count Palatine. Upon his death, the E∣lectors chose the Duke of Saxony Emperour, nam'd Otho V. who the next year was crown'd by Innocent at Rome. The Venetians now being very powerful at Sea, and the State having greater matters in hand, private Men had leave to make themselves Masters of what Islands they pleased, provided they continued their Allegiance to the Government, upon which many Citizens entred upon several Isles in the Ionian and Aegaean Seas, and at the publick charge were seiz'd Corfu, Modone and Corone. Otho having, as is aforesaid, receiv'd the Imperial Crown of the Pope, against all justice and right, possesses himself of Montefiascone, Ra∣dicofano, and several other Towns belonging to the Church, and then marches into the Kingdom of Naples, designing to take that Kingdom from Frederic II. who was young and as yet under Guardians; which so angred the Pope, that having first admonish'd him without any effect he excommunicated him at last and depriv'd him of his Imperial Title; and the King of Bohemia with the Arch bishops of Mentz and Triers, by the persuasion of the Duke of Austria and Landgrave of Turingia, chuse Frederick King of Sicily, then in the twentieth year of his age, Emperour in his stead. Otho hereupon returns into Germany, to take care of his Pa∣ternal Estate, by which means Innocent had an opportunity to his mind to recover whatsoever he had taken from the Church. Those of Candy now rebelling against the Venetians, they were by force of Arms reduc'd An. Dom. 1214. and brought into the constitution of a Colony, many Citizens being sent to live among 'em and to observe 'em. At this time Frederic II. came to Rome to receive the Imperial Diadem, but could not prevail with him to bestow it upon him, so he return'd into Germany and there was by the Arch-bishop of Mentz Crown'd King of Germany, and

then made an Alliance and League with the King of France; which ad∣ded so much to the strength of that King, that he invaded the Realm of John King of England, with such success, that John was fain to make use of Divine aids as well as humane force, to resist him, by making his Kingdoms of England and Ireland tributary to the Church of Rome, in the payment of one hundred Marks yearly, which for some years after was perform'd. Frederic now in pursuit of Otho, who had been totally defeated by the King of France, takes in Aquisgrane, and there by Autho∣rity receiv'd from Pope Innocent he sets up the Standard of the Holy Cross, promising speedily to march to the assistance of the Christians against the Saracens in Asia: beside that he might shew with what a grate∣ful mind he had receiv'd so many benefits of the Holy Sea, he gave the Country of Fondi to the Church of Rome, and what had before been given and afterward usurp'd from it, he restor'd. But the Pope taking notice of the increase of the Saracens Power in Asia, call'd a full Council in the Lateran, where were present the Patriarchs of Jerusalem and Con∣stantinople, seventy Arch-bishops, four hundred Bishops, twelve Abbats, eight hundred Priors of Convents, and the Ambassadors of the Greek and Roman Emperours, with those of the Kings of Jerusalem, France, Spain, England and Cyprus. Many things here came under debate, but nothing could be determin'd, because the Pisans and Genoeses were then at War by Sea, as those of Lombardy were among themselves at Land. The Pope therefore took a journey thitherward to compose their diffe∣rences, but died in the way at Perugia, when he had been Pope eighteen years seven months and sixteen days. He was a Man most exact in his life, a proof of which is, that none of his Acts which approv'd or dis∣anull'd any thing, were by any of his Successors revers'd. He decreed many things for the reformation of manners both in Clergy and Laity; and wrote Books concerning the Sacrament of the Eucharist, the Sacra∣ment of Baptism, and the unhappiness of Mans condition, beside that he was wont to make Sermons upon remarkable occasions and solemn days. He disallow'd a Book written by Abbat Joachim, which con∣tain'd some Heterodox Opinions; and condemn'd the Errors of Alme∣ricus a Heretic, that with some of his followers was burnt at Paris, who among other false Notions maintain'd, that those Idea's which are in the divine Mind were created and did create others, whereas according to S. Augustin, there is nothing in the Mind of God but what is Eternal and unchangeable; beside he said, that to one who was in a state of Grace no Sin is charged. Great satisfaction this Pope took in observing the Virtue and Learning of S. Dominic, who was Founder of the Order of Preaching Friers, and of S. Francis of Assisi, who was Author of the Order of Friers Minors. 'Tis said, that in his time liv'd Gratian who compil'd the Decrees, and Papias the Lombard, who collected a Latin Alphabetical Dictionary; and indeed of Papias we have no reason to doubt, but for Gratian, some Authors place him in the times of Pope Alexander III. Now lest you should think that Innocent in so long a Popedom neglect∣ed works of Piety, I must tell you that at his charge the Hospital of the Holy Ghost was built and endow'd with so fair an Income as it is, for the relief of Pilgrims and sick People, and for the Education of Father∣less Children and Foundlings. He adorn'd S. Peter's Altar with Mo∣saic Work, as the representation of him and his Cipher in the Arch do

testifie. Moreover, he gave to each Church in Rome a Pound weight in Silver to make Chalices for Divine Service, and he repair'd the Church of S. Sixtus then almost falling with age. The Enemies of his good Name indeed say that he did this, only for fear Men should say that he laid out all his Mony in building of the Torre de Conti, which he erected for the honour of his Family. However that be, 'tis certain he shew'd him∣self in all the parts of his life an excellent Man and one worthy to be reckon'd among the best Popes.

HONORIƲS III.

HONORIƲS the Third, a Roman, Son of one Almeric, was by a general suffrage chosen Pope; to whom Peter Em∣perour of Constantinople coming with his Wife Jole, he was Crown'd in the Church of S. Laurence without the Walls, and immediately John Colonna a Cardinal, was pitch'd upon to go into Asia with those forces which Pope Innocent in his life-time had got to∣gether for that end. The Christian Princes by the persuasion of Hono∣rius now went to Acon, particularly Andrew King of Hungary, who to that purpose borrow'd the Venetian Shipping and by way of requital passed over to 'em the right to all that part of Dalmatia, which had been in the possession of the Duke of Austria. With Andrew went Hen∣ry Count of Nevers and Walter Chamberlain to the King of France. All these holding a Council of War together with John King of Jerusalem, they resolv'd to lay Siege to Damiata in Egypt, and thither they went, in the month of May 1218. This City was once call'd Aeliopolis from Aelius Pertinax, who environ'd it with a trebble Wall, and deriving a little stream of the Nile about it made it stand in an Island. The Sub∣urbs hereof were large and full of Merchandize, which the Christian Soldiers plunder'd; but soon after upon a West-wind the Nile rose so high, that their Provisions were spoil'd, and they began to be in great want of necessaries; especially because the Soldan who was encamp'd not far off, had beset all the passages to hinder any supplies coming to 'em. The Christians under this difficulty march their Army against the Soldan, who in great fear streight leaves his Camp stor'd with plenty of all things and retreats, leaving them free to besiege the Town which he at first came to relieve. Cordirius also Son to the great Soldan, despair∣ing of being able to defend Jerusalem, if the Christians took Damiata, broke down the Walls of the City and left nothing standing but the Tower of David and the Temple of God; only he did not violate the Holy Sepulcre, mov'd (as we may suppose) by the intreaties of the Christians that inhabited those places. While our men attack'd Da∣miata, the Soldan returns with a much greater Army and pitches his Camp between Cairo and Damiata; from which he could not be provok'd to Battel by either the challenges or reproaches of our Men; which so en∣rag'd the French, that without any Order they set upon him and receiv'd great loss. Notwithstanding all this, the Siege was still push'd on, till after fifteen months lying before it it was taken by the Christians and

sack'd: so that the Soldiery was wonderfully enrich'd with the spoil. In the mean time Honorius had at Rome confirm'd the Order of S. Dominic upon his request, and had Anathematiz'd Frederic II. because (after his Mo∣ther Constantia was dead, who was wont to restrain him within his duty) he came to Rome, and without right or reason laid wast the Pope's Ter∣ritories. These differences between the Pope and the Emperour being discover'd to the Soldan, mov'd him to take the opportunity, and ac∣cordingly he raises a greater Army than ever he had before, thinking the Christians would not now shew their heads; but Cardinal John Colonna roused them with his persuasions, so that they took up Arms and went to meet the Enemy at the Nile: where when they were come, the Soldan feign'd himself afraid to cope with 'em, putting it off till the time of the Increase of Nile, which follow'd a little while after; and the Cataracts of that River opened and so overflow'd the whole Country, that it was in no place less than a Cubit in depth. This so terrified the Christians, that they were glad to accept of Peace upon condition, that Damiata should be re deliver'd to the Egyptians, the Prisoners on both sides be discharg'd, and the piece of the Holy Cross then in the hands of those Barbarians should be restor'd to the Christians, and they suffer'd to re∣tire quietly to Acon and Tyre. Thus was Damiata which was begun to be inhabited by the Christians upon the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin, deliver'd up according to the Articles, on the Birth-day of the same, An. Dom. 1221. In which year the Tartars a Nation of Scythia (or as others will have it, of the mountainous parts of India) leaving their own Country, ravag'd through Parthia, Media, Persia, As∣syria, and came as far as Sarmatia; where not far from Palus Meotis dri∣ving out the old Inhabitants they seated themselves. The Christian Commanders finding at this time that nothing was to be attempted in Asia, the Enemy being too powerful, they together with John Colonna re∣turn'd into Italy, and were soon follow'd by John King of Jerusalem, who came to Rome and was by the Pope kindly entertain'd and had large Pre∣sents made to him. Afterward he gave his Daughter which he had by his Wife Jole in marriage to the Emperor Frederic, though he was under the Pope's Anathema, and pass'd over all the Title he had by hereditary right to the Kingdom of Jerusalem to him by way of Dowry. Hence it is, that all the succeeding Kings of Sicily and Naples, use the Title of that Kingdom also, though they make their claim to it with words only, and not with Arms. John then took a Journey into France, where he had better luck than he was wont to have, for Philip King of France be∣queath'd in his last Will forty thousand pounds in Silver to him, and as much to the grand Master of the Templers; and with the help of this Money he went into Spain to perform a Vow he had made to S. James of Compostella, where he took to Wife Berengaria Sister to the King of Spain. This year died S. Dominic, that holy Man, at Bononia; and Frederic de∣clar'd his Son Henry, a Boy but of ten years old, King of Germany. Our Honorius being a little quiet from forein troubles repair'd the Church of S. Laurence without the Walls, that is call'd Sancta Sanctorum and the Church of S. Vivian; beside he built a Palace at Casa Marii, and adorn'd the Cibory [Altar-Canopy or Covering] of S. Peter with excellent workmanship. He also compil'd the Decretal Epistles, and confirm'd the Order of S. Francis, who within two years after was canoniz'd by

Pope Gregory. After this blessed manner did Honorius lead his life, and as became a careful and a good Shepherd, and dying when he had been Pope ten years seven months and thirteen days, he was buried in the Church of S. Mary Maggiore. After his death there happened so great Earthquakes that in the Monti Salvii five thousand persons were slain by the falls of Houses and by the Stones that were thrown into the Vales from the tops of the Mountains.

GREGORY IX.

GREGORY the Ninth, born at Anagni, a City of Cam∣pania, of the Family of the Conti, and Nephew to Inno∣cent III. was created Pope at the Settizonio [a place in Rome so call'd from seven rows of Pillars there plac'd by the Emperour Severus.] Which was no sooner done, but he dispatch'd away monitory Letters to require Frederic the Emperour un∣der pain of an Anathema, that he should with the first opportunity march with his Army into Asia, there to endeavour the recovery of the holy City. Frederic receiv'd the Admonition and indeed promised so to do; accordingly giving out Orders that all who had entred themselves of the Crusado should by a day appointed repair to Brundusium, with their Arms. Great numbers met there from all Countries, particularly from Germany came the Lantgrave of Hesse, who (waiting there for the arrival of Frederic out of Sicily, where he staid and prolong'd the time feigning himself sick) died himself and a great number of his Soldiers; and as soon as the news of his death was brought to Frederic, he then imme∣diately set sail for Brundusium and seiz'd into his hands whatsoever the Lantgrave had left of value, which act plainly detected the fraudulence of his pretence. However he continued to make the World believe that he was really intent upon the holy Expedition, and after the rapacious action aforesaid upon the goods of the Lantgrave, he hoisted Sail and commanded the rest that were there to follow him; but in a little while after return'd to Brundusium, forc'd (as he pretended) by the tempe∣stuous weather. 1. The noise of this Expedition mov'd John King of Je∣rusalem and Berengaria his Wife (knowing well that they did what would be very acceptable to the Pope) to take a journey to Bononia, meaning to make use of some Shipping of the Venetians to carry him to Asia; but the Pope understood well enough the tricks of Ferdinand and what little credit was to be given him, and lest John should quite lose his labour and come for nothing, he confer'd upon him the Government of the Exarchate of Ravenna, and ratified the Sentence of Excommuni∣cation which was pronounc'd by his Predecessor Honorius III. against the Emperour Frederic, and had done worse things against him, if himself had not been under some fearful apprehensions of an Invasion from the Moors, who were then out at Sea with a powerful Fleet, but were after∣wards vanquish'd by Ferdinand of Aragon with so great loss on their side, that in a short time he possess'd himself of Majorca one of the Islands call'd the Baleares, and took the City Valentia, driving out the Saracens

and compelling the Inhabitants to receive the Christian Religion. At last yet Frederic was, what by the intreaties of his Friends and the threats of the Pope, wrought upon to begin his Voyage, sailing first to Cyprus, which afforded some hopes to the Christian Soldiers that were in Asia, whom he had so often deceiv'd. But while he staid there sending out Spies to bring him an account of the strength of the Soldan's Forces, his General Rainaldo, whom he had left in Sicily invades the Pope's Territories and takes several Towns in the Marca di Ancona. The Pope was then at Perugia, designing to go to Assisi, there in person to examine the truth of those reports which had been of Miracles wrought by that holy Man, S. Francis; and when he found what he had heard concerning him to be really true, he canoniz'd him with great solemnity, in the presence of great numbers of Christian People who came together for that end. While these things were acting by the Pope, another Commander of the Emperours by siding with a Faction seizes Fuligno, but was quickly ex∣pell'd by the Power of some good Men who stood up for the holy Church. By this time Frederic was got to Acon, and from thence solicited the Pope earnestly by Letters and Messengers, to be absolv'd by him, and promised if he could obtain his request, to be ever after his most humble Servant: but the Pope being well aware of the crafty temper of the Man, not onely warns the Christian Soldiers to have a care of him as of one that was always plotting mischief; but having rais'd an Army he sends it under John King of Jerusalem against Rainaldo, who then was harassing the Marca di Ancona and fill'd all places with rapine and deva∣station; and with other Forces under Cardinal Colonna he drove the Em∣perours Lieutenant, with his mercenary Saracens, out of S. Germans, and had all the places from thence to Capua deliver'd to him by surren∣der in a short time. These successes of the Pope so affrighted those of Ʋmbria and Marca di Ancona who had serv'd under Frederic, that they deserted whatsoever they held and retreated into Naples. In the mean time Frederic was return'd from Asia to Brundusium, and being now very desirous of Peace, offer'd his requests to the Pope, that he would please to take him into favour, to acknowledg him Emperour, and a true Feu∣datary of the Church for the Kingdom of Sicily. Which he at last ob∣tain'd, but not till he had paid down one hundred and twenty thousand ounces of Gold for the use of the Church of Rome, to make good the damages he had done it; and these Conditions he was forc'd to come to Anagni and there to implore of his Holiness. While Gregory (as became a faithful Shepherd) was thus careful on all hands and was gone to Pe∣rugia, to settle matters in that City then much disordered by some banish'd persons who were newly return'd, there arose a greater Sedi∣tion and Heresie at Rome than had been known before: for Hannibal of the Family of the Hannibali joyning with some Priests, was made use of to head the People of Rome in a Conspiracy they carried on against the Church of God; but the divine Vengeance speedily put a stop to their wicked designs; for the River Tiber rising over his Banks, did them much mischief, and this was accompanied with so devouring a Plague, that hardly one man in ten was left alive. The Pope coming to Rome, behav'd himself with wonderful Clemency, and forgave the People of Rome their fault, onely putting Hannibal out of the Senate and convict∣ing the Priests of their Heresie, he brought them to recant their Error

and to profess as true Christians ought to do: then turning his thoughts to adorning the City, he caused the old Common-shores to be cleansed and repair'd, and new ones to be made, at the same time yet consulting not onely the Ornament but the healthiness of the place. Then leaving Rome, for his healths sake, at Riete (as some will have it) he canoniz'd S. Dominic who founded the Order of Friers Predicants, and at Spoleto, he did the same by S. Antony, who was born at Lisbon, but died at Padua, and was the second after S. Francis, head of the Order of Minors; hence he return'd to Anagni, and fortified the circumjacent Town, not a little apprehending the factious humour of the Romans, whose chief Senator, after the antient manner, had proposed a Law to be made and the People had pass'd it, that should oblige all the Towns lying about Rome to pay a certain Tax to themselves; the Pope hereupon fearlesly takes his journey to Rome (though the Cardinals dissuaded him) mean∣ing to endeavour by admonition or correction to bring the Romans off from these insolences: but when he found it signified nothing what he did, he departed to Riete, whither also came the Emperour Frederic; and they having discourse about the present state of Affairs, they both came to this resolution, that they would join their forces together and unani∣mously march against the Romans. But at this time (as he had always used to do) Frederic put a trick upon the Pope; for returning himself into Germany, he left Order with his Men, that they should in all jun∣ctures act as the Romans would have 'em. The Pope was much mov'd at this treachery of his, and proposed a good Reward to any German Soldiers who would leave their Leaders and serve under him, whereupon so great multitudes came over to his side, that the Romans dar'd not any where shew themselves in open field against the Army of the Church. Gregory having by this means recover'd the Patrimony of St. Peter and the Contrada de' Sabini, he slighted the Ambassadours of the Soldan, who came humbly to sue for Peace, and sent Friers of the Orders of S. Francis and S. Dominic throughout Europe, by their preach∣ing to stir up the Christians to the War against the Saracens, by whose means greater numbers were got together, than ever were before; and in the mean time that it was under debate who should command this great Army, the Pope canoniz'd Elizabeth Daughter to the King of Hungary, a most holy Woman and famous for the Miracles wrought by her. At length Theobald King of Navarre, Almeric Montfort, Henry Count of Bari and Campania with the Christian forces passing through Germany and Hungary, arriv'd first at Constantinople, where crossing the Bosporus, they came at last to Ptolemais, laying the Country waste far and near. But they were not long after set upon by a vast Army of the Enemy, and compell'd to retreat defending themselves from their pursuers for two days, and there lost all their best Men. Thus in a short time came this Expedition to nothing, which had cost so much industry to be brought about, merely through the unskilfulness of the Commanders. The Pope was extremely troubled at this Calamity, and resolv'd to return to Rome (at the earnest instance of the Citizens) there to put up Prayers and supplications to appease the Divine Wrath, which the sins of Mankind had provok'd; but his intention was fru∣strated by Peter Frangipani, who being of the Imperial Faction, oppo∣sed him; so he left Perugia and went to Viterbo, to meet the Emperour

with an Army, who (as intelligence was brought him) had already en∣tred Lombardy, and without any just cause wasted the Territories of the Confederate Cities, and was about to lay Siege to some of 'em whose Forces were almost broken already, having receiv'd one mischief upon the neck of another from Ezelino who then Lorded it over Padua. This Ezelino surnam'd the Roman, was Grand-son to a German Commander (who under Otho III. led an Army of his Countrymen into Italy,) and now having a body of Men which he receiv'd of Frederic, under his com∣mand, procur'd to himself a great Dominion in the Country of Lom∣bardy, bringing under his jurisdiction Treviso, Padoua, Vincenza, Verona and Brescia; and Frederic not shewing any regard to the stipulations and agreements which had theretofore been ratified between his Ance∣stors and them, makes War upon the Milaneses and the associated Cities, and in a great Battel fought between 'em at a place call'd Nova Corte he overcame 'em with great loss on their side; which put the Pope so much out of hopes of success, that upon hearing this ill news of the misfortune of his Friends and Allies, he began to think of retiring to Rome, though his coming thither was opposed by one John Cincio, a potent Citizen and Sena∣tor, whose intolerable arrogance yet was so curb'd by James Capocio ano∣ther Roman Citizen, that the Pope was received into Rome with great splen∣dor & magnificence. This was that James, whose name is yet to be seen and read in the little Chappel of Mosaic Work which was built at his charge in the Church of S. Mary Maggiore, in which also was buried Peter Ca∣pocio who was a Cardinal of the Church of Rome, and while he liv'd a bitter Enemy of this Schismatical Emperour Frederic: at whose expence the Hospital of S. Anthony not far from the aforesaid Church and the College for Scholars at Perugia (now call'd la Sapientia) was also erect∣ed. Gregory having quieted the minds of Men in the City, again pro∣nounces an Anathema against Frederic and declares him to have forfeit∣ed his right to the Empire and deprives him of it; then he sends for the Ambassadours of the States of Venice and Genoa, (between whom there was so great a quarrel as it was fear'd a War would ensue) to mediate their differences, which he did so effectually as that he procur'd an Agree∣ment between 'em to a Peace, upon condition, that without mutual consent neither of the two States should make Peace with the Emperor of Constan∣tinople; that they should be Enemies to the Enemies of each other and join their Forces upon every occasion for the common defence; and this Treaty to be in force and complied withal for nine years by them both, under pain of Excommunication to be denounc'd by the Pope upon the Infractor. About this time died Baldwin who upon the Death of John had succeeded to the Empire of Greece, and made shift to hold it for two years; but with so great difficulty by reason of his poor Treasury, that he could hardly defend himself from his Enemies, being forc'd to deliver his Son for a Pledg to the Venetian Merchants for Money that he had borrow'd of 'em, and to make Money of the Lead that belong'd to the Churches; beside he sold to the Venetians, who were wealthy and able to purchase 'em, the Spear with which our Saviour Christ's Body was pierc'd and the Sponge which was reach'd to him to drink out of Frederic had a great spight at these Venetians, because they were on the Pope's side, and drove them into their Marishes (where their City stands) for security and did them great damage; but in the mean while happened a general revolt of the Cities of Lombardy, by the Procure∣ment

and instigation of Gregory Monte-longo, who was Legat at Bononia, and Ferrara, which had revolted before from the Pope to the Emperour was retaken by them, though Salinguerra a valiant Commander was in it and made a brave defence. As soon as it was taken, it was put into the hands of Azo of the House of Este, who was a considerable Person in this Enterprize, to be govern'd by him in the name of the Church, An. Dom. 1240. This so alarm'd the Emperour who was then at Pisa, that being under great uncertainty whom to look upon as Friends to himself or Wellwishers to the Pope, he divided first the Cities of Italy into two Factions, giving the name of Guelphs to those who were for the Pope's Interest, and that of Gibellines to them that were for the Imperial. These most pernicious names of distinction, invented surely for the mischief of mankind, were first made use of at Pistoia, where when the Magistrates expell'd the Panzatichi, who were Gibellines, out of the City, there chanc'd to be two Brothers Germans, the one of which whose name was Guelph, was for the Pope; the other for the Emperour and his name was Gibel; from which these two Parties were discriminated by those different appellations. On the other side those of Arezzo and Sienna drive out the Guelphs, whose example being follow'd by many other Cities of Italy, gave occasion and rise to a worse than Civil War. Seve∣ral Cities after this revolted from the Pope as well in Ʋmbria as in Tus∣cany, and particularly the Citizens of Viterbo threw off their obedience. The Romans also would fain have been doing the same thing, but that the Pope carrying the heads of the Apostles SS. Peter and Paul, through the City in Procession, moved the People to commiserate the State of the Church, and then making a most excellent Oration in S. Peters Church, he had the power and good fortune by it to persuade even the Seditious (who were ready to mutiny) to take his part and to list themselves un∣der the holy Cross for the defence of the Church of God. These, when some time after Frederic came in hostile manner before the Walls of Rome, gave him a repulse, which so enrag'd him that whatsoever Priso∣ners he had taken he put to death with divers tortures, and retir'd to∣wards Beneventum, which City he took by force, sack'd, and dismantled it. Then returning by the Via Latina with his heart full of fury to∣ward the City, by the way he plunder'd the Monastery of Monte-Cas∣sino and turn'd out the Monks; he destroy'd also with fire and sword the City of Sora, formerly belonging to the Samnites, situate at the head of the River Garigliano, and pillag'd any thing that belong'd to the Tem∣plers wherever he could meet with it. He was so great a Lover of the Saracens, that he made use of them rather than any other People in his Wars, made Magistrates of them, and gave them a City for themselves, which is call'd to this day Nocera di Pagani. He threaten'd the Brother of the King of Tunis, because he was come as far as Palermo to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. By a sudden Onset he also made himself Master of Ravenna, which appertain'd to the Church. All which Gre∣gory well considering, he appointed a Council to be holden in the La∣teran, there to find out means to depose Frederic; but the Emperour had so beset all the ways, that, with the help of the Pisans, he took se∣veral Cardinals and Prelates as they were travelling both by Sea and Land and cast them into Prison. Which so griev'd the good Pope, that he liv'd not long after, dying when he had been Pope fourteen

years and three months. There happen'd an Eclipse of the Sun a little before his death greater than ever was seen. Raymund of Barcelona flou∣rish'd in his time and assisted him in compiling his Book of Decretals, whom many Authors so commend that nothing can be added to his Praise.

CELESTINE IV.

CELESTINE the Fourth, a Milanese, of the Family of the Castiglioni, Bishop of Sabina, famous in his time for his ex∣emplary life and great Learning, being very old and sickly, was yet chosen Pope in the room of Gregory; but died on the eighteenth day of his Pontificate, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, to the great disappointment of all Men, who hoped to see much better times under his Government. After his decease the Sea was vacant twenty one months; for those who were then in the highest Authority in the Church of God did not think good to elect any Man to the Popedom, so long as the Cardinals which were taken by Fre∣deric, were detain'd in Prison. During this vacancy of the Holy Sea, Frederic over-ran the Marca di Ancona and Romagna, as far as Faenza and Bologna, which after some resistance he took by force, and transferred the University which was at Bologna, to Padoua: and beside gave many troubles and did great mischiefs to all those that were look'd upon as Favourers of the Churches Cause. Then Baldwin Emperour of Constan∣tinople, despairing of managing the Asian Affairs to any purpose, toge∣ther with Raymund Earl of Tholouse, came into Italy, and what with his intreaties and by reason of the respect which Frederic (who was then at Parma) had for him, he procur'd that the Cardinals and other Eccle∣siastical persons who were kept under custody by him, should be set free; who in a little time after had a meeting at Anagni to consider of the Choice of a new Pope.

INNOCENT IV.

INNOCENT the Fourth, before call'd Sinibaldo, of the Family of the Fieschi, Counts of Lavagna, was created Pope at Anagni; at the news of which Frederic was not very well pleased; for he knew him to be a Man of resolu∣tion and of a great Spirit, they having lived together fami∣liarly for some time before, and he was very much afraid he would call him to account for his past actions: So that when some of his Friends were complementing him upon this occasion, he is said to have told 'em, that Cardinal Sinibaldo was indeed his special Friend, but now being made Pope, he was his bitter Enemy. Innocent having put on the Pon∣tifical Robes, comes to Rome, where by the way he is met by all the No∣bility

and Men of note and receiv'd with universal Acclamations, and ha∣ving perform'd all the Ceremonies of the Consecration and Coronation which are usual in such cases, he begins to discourse of making Peace with Frederic, Baldwin also interposing his Authority to bring it about: But the business met with many delays, till after four months had been spent in negotiating, the result was this, that the Pope should remove to the City of Castellana, and tarry there a while till the Emperor came thither also, personally to treat about the Peace. But Innocent receiving certain information, that Frederic had laid snares and Ambushes for him both at Rome and in his way to that place, he made use of some shipping of the Genoeses, which then lay in the Port of Civita-vecchia, and with a prosperous gale arriv'd in France, where at Lions he was receiv'd very generously by all People and with great kindness, and at that City he appoints a Council to be holden, An. Dom. 1246. to which he cites the Emperour by Nuntios and Letters first, and at last by an Officer for the purpose, setting him under a penalty if he were disobedient. In answer to this the Emperour onely sends thither a Civilian of Sinuessa, to desire of the Pope some longer time, promising shortly to begin his Jour∣ney thitherward; and so much time as was fit was allow'd him. But his craft appearing and that he onely sought an occasion to scandalize and ruine the Pope, by universal consent he was declar'd to be depriv'd of his Title to the Empire and his other Dominions. This Frederic took with so great indignation, that he commanded the Houses and Palaces of some of Pope Innocent's kinsfolks (who by his advice were remov'd from Parma, where their Estates lay, to Piacenza) to be pull'd down, and then making a League with the Duke of Burgundy, he resolv'd to go to Lions, and for that purpose he prepar'd a vast Retinue; with which he came as far as Turin, where news was brought him, that those persons who had been banish'd from Parma, were return'd and having defeated their fellow-Citizens near the River Taro, had entred the City by force and made great slaughter of the contrary party. This caused Frederic to break off his intended Journey and to return into Italy, where ga∣thering into one Army all his Forces which had been dispersed through the whole Country, he made up a body of sixty thousand Men, and with these he marches to invest the City of Parma, which the associated Cities being solicitous to defend, they put into it very great reliefs under the command of the Pope's Legat; who having with great obstinacy sustain'd the Siege for two years, at last making a bold sally, when Frederic ex∣pected no such thing, he utterly routed and destroy'd his Army and made himself master of his Camp, which was plentifully stor'd with all man∣ner of necessaries, because Frederic had fortified it after the manner of a City with Out-works, designing when he should have plunder'd and rased the City of Parma; against which he had conceiv'd the utmost hatred, to build a City in the place where his Camp stood, (and where he had already coin'd pieces of Money call'd Victorines) and to name it, the City Victoria. According to some Authors, himself had much ado to escape to Cremona from this great defeat, in which he lost a Crown of inestimable value and several Vessels of Gold of huge weight; but he durst not enter the Walls of Cremona, for fear of the Cremoneses, many of whose fellow-Citizens had lost their lives in that Engagement. Innocent being advertised of this great blow given to the fortune of Fre∣deric,

and that his heart was so broken with it, that he let himself loose to all manner of voluptuousness, and made himself Gardens of Pleasure, where he kept a number of beautiful Women and Eunuchs, he took pity upon the Man, and dismissing the Councils without farther prose∣cution of him, he dispatch'd Nuncios through France and other Countries to persuade the people to engage in the Holy War and to follow Lewis King of France who was preparing for an Expedition into Asia, which he had promised and vow'd to perform when he lay under a great fit of sickness. But the Tartarians put a stop for a while to this Journey, who with two numerous Bodies of men had entred Europe and Asia; where those who invaded the latter, having pass'd through the Countries of Georgia and Armenia, pierc'd as far as Iconium, then the Royal Seat of the Turkish Princes: the other party which entred Europe, under the con∣duct of one Batto, ravag'd all through Poland and Hungary, and then turning toward the Euxine Sea, they depopulated the vast Realms of Russia and Gazaria. At the same time the Grossoni, a people of Arabia, by the instigation of the Soldan of Babylon, set upon the Templars and put 'em to flight, and without any trouble took Jerusalem, which was before stripp'd of its Walls, putting the Christians that were in it to the Sword and dishonouring our Saviour's Sepulchre with all manner of fil∣thiness. The tidings of which mov'd Innocent to urge King Lewis to ha∣sten his march towards Asia, with those Forces he had already got toge∣ther for that intent. He complied, and arriv'd at Cyprus, but it was at so unseasonable a time of the year, that he was forc'd to take up his Winter quarters there; but as soon as Spring came on, he sail'd to Da∣miata, where he got the better of the Soldan's Navy, and defeated his Land-forces who would have hindred his coming on Shore, where he pitch'd his Camp for so long as till the rest of his Troops could arrive from Italy. But these were very much retarded by the fury of Frederic, who weaning himself after a while from the pleasures in which he had been immers'd, takes up his Arms again and fills the whole Country with confusion, and compells several Cities in which were many factious Per∣sons, to throw off their subjection to the Pope; the chief of which were the Inhabitants of Forli, Arimino, Ʋrbin, and all the Marca di Ancona: In Ʋmbria none stood to their Allegiance but those of Todi, Perugia and Assisi: and in Tuscany onely the Florentines were on the Pope's side; who therefore were so harass'd by the Army of Frederic, that they were forc'd at last to banish so many of their fellow-Citizens as were of the Guelphs Faction; The Bologneses had better luck, for giving Battel to Henry one of Frederic's Generals, they overthrew him and cut him to pieces. Some write that 'twas at this time that Frederic passing into Sicily, died at Pa∣lermo; while others affirm that he was taken desperately sick in Puglia, and when he began to recover, he was smother'd to death with a Pillow by one Manfred, who was his natural Son, begotten upon a Noble-Wo∣man his Concubine. Howsoever this was, 'tis certain that some time be∣fore his death he had made Manfred Prince of Tarento, and had bestow'd upon him, beside that Principality, many other Towns and Territories.

He left Conrade (whom he had by his Wife Jole Daughter to John King of Jerusalem) Heir of all his Estates, but he was afterwards taken off by Poison, as was manifest, by the means of Manfred; having before seiz'd upon Naples and Aquino, and sack'd them, much against the mind

of the Pope, who vigorously opposed these proceedings, though in vain, in order to procure the peace of Italy, that he might have liberty to tran∣sport the Italian Soldiers to recruit the Army of King Lewis then lying before Damiata. But Damiata was now taken, and Robert Earl of Poi∣tiers coming with fresh supplies from France, he marches from thence with his Army towards the City of Pharamia, whither the Soldan, apprehend∣ing his design, was already come with great Forces. There happen'd to be a River betwixt the two Armies, by reason whereof they could not join Battel, but they had frequent light Skirmishes, (both Generals keep∣ing themselves within their Camps) in one of which Robert rashly ven∣turing too far, was taken Prisoner by the Enemy. By this time Innocent had almost extinguish'd those flames of War with which Italy had so long been consum'd, and intended to have return'd to Rome, having first ca∣noniz'd Edmund Arch-bishop of Canterbury; but when he came to Peru∣gia, he thought good to decline his journey to Rome, understanding the Senate there arrogated to themselves more Power than stood with the dignity of the Pope and Court of Rome; and there he canoniz'd and en∣roll'd among the holy Martyrs Peter of Verona a preaching Frier, who had been murthered by some Hereticks between Milan and Como; and the same honour he gave to S. Stanislaus Bishop of Cracow, who in his life-time was very famous for working Miracles. Hence he was invited by the Noblemen of the Kingdom of Sicily, and immediately departed for Naples, then newly repair'd, where he died and was buried in S. Lau∣rence's Church, when he had been Pope fourteen years six months twelve days, just in the nick of time when he had hopes to have brought into his possession all that Kingdom. It was by the Decree of this excellent Pope Innocent, that the Octave of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin was commanded to be observ'd yearly in the Church of God as a Festival. He with good advice, fill'd up the places in the College of Cardinals, which had long been vacant, with very worthy personages, and ordain'd that when they rode abroad they should always wear a red Hat, for an honourable distinction of the degree they held. Moreover this learned Pope, though raised to the highest dignity in the Church, compil'd and publish'd several things; for he composed the Apparatus [or Glosses] to the Decretals, which are of great use to the Canonists, because they con∣tain many nice disquisitions, which render the Text wonderfully plain: and he put forth another upon the Councils, which Hostiensis in his Summa calls the Authenticks. He wrote also a Book concerning the Ju∣risdiction of the Emperour and the Authority of the Pope, in answer to one Peter surnam'd Vinea, who asserted, that the Empire and every per∣son and thing thereunto belonging were absolutely subject to the Empe∣rour; to which Book Innocent afterwards gave the Title of his Apologe∣tick. He was extremely delighted with the conversation of learned Men, whom also he remembred to prefer to dignities in the Church; particu∣larly one Hugo, who wrote Comments and Concordances upon the holy Bible, a Person famous for his learning and good life, he advanc'd to be Cardinal of S. Sabina, which great promotion yet did not make him leave his former course of life, being a Frier of the Order of S. Dominic. In this Pope's Reign and by his Order, Alexander of the Order of Friers Minors, who was well in years when he took upon him a religious Ha∣bit, wrote a very copious sum of Theology: by the procurement also of

this Pope and enabled by his bounty Bernardus Parmensis and Compo∣stellanus two very learned Men, at this time made publick their Works upon the Decretals, which they call'd Apparatus. Innocent had not long been dead, when he was follow'd by his Nephew William, whose Tomb is yet to be seen in the Church of S. Laurence without the Walls.

ALEXANDER IV.

ALEXANDER the Fourth, a Campanian, born at Anag∣ni, was chosen Pope in the room of Innocent, and streight sends monitory Letters to Manfred, that he should not at his peril attempt any thing that might be a diminution of the honour of holy Church; for he calling to his aid the Saracens from No∣cera, had surprised the Church-Forces utterly unprepared, that were in Foggia, and either put 'em to the Sword or took 'em Prisoners; and pre∣tending that Conradine was dead and that himself was his rightful Heir, he had taken upon him to rule as King. In the mean while the Chri∣stians, who we told you had encamp'd near the City of Pharamia, were very much visited with sickness, and press'd with want of Provisions, that part of Nile being prepossess'd by the Enemy, by which they were wont to be supplied with necessaries; beside that the Patriarch of Jerusa∣lem coming that way with some number of Ships, was made a Prisoner; so that Lewis being afraid his Army should be lost by famine, resolv'd to return to Damiata, and in his way fell into a great Ambuscade of the E∣nemy, by whom he was routed, and himself with Alphonsus Earl of Poi∣tiers and Charles Earl of Anjou, his Brothers-German, was taken Prisoner; but the Soldan not long after this great Victory was slain by his own Men, and he that succeeded in his stead having Damiata surrendred to him and a good sum of Money, discharg'd all the Christians and sent them under safe conduct to Ptolemais; where Lewis sent away his two Brothers into his own Country and by the persuasion of Pope Alexander staid in Asia, till Cesarea, Joppa and Sidon, (Cities the Christians had newly gain'd from the Saracens) were well garison'd with Men; which done, after having been six years on this Expedition, he return'd home. While this was doing, Pope Alexander having excommunicated Manfred, went to Anagni, and dispatch'd away Octavian, a Cardinal of the Church of Rome, of the Family of the Ʋbaldini, to confirm the Neapolitans in their resolutions against Manfred, assuring him that he would in a short time come in person with good succours to the aid of them and those of Cam∣pania; but Manfred not contenting himself to teize the Neapolitans, raised up also several Factions in Tuscany, especially at Florence, which City upon the death of Frederic had asserted its Liberty, where matters were car∣ried so high, that they were fain by a publick Edict to call home those persons who in the days of Frederic had been banish'd for being Guelphs, that they might be rendred able to withstand the contrivances of the Gibellines; by which means the Guelphish Faction got so great strength in Tuscany, that they harass'd and did much mischief by their Troops to those of Pistoia, Arezzo, Pisa and Siena, who had expell'd their fel∣low-Citizens

for being Guelphs, the Luccheses more than any helping them against the Pisans, who had been certainly ruin'd by the Florentines, after they had been overcome by 'em at the River Ansari, but that they were afraid of those of Boggibonzi. This Town stood in the Valley of Hel∣sa, about twelve miles from Siena, very strong by its natural situation and by artificial strengths, of which the Gibellines made use against the Guelphs, as a Garison; but it was at length taken and rased; and then the Florentines being Enemies to Manfred, made offer to the Pope of their assistance against him; which so mov'd Manfred, that having been first declar'd King at Palermo, and with the help of some Saracen Auxi∣liaries having in divers conflicts broken the Forces of the Pope under the command of the Legat, he sent his Lieutenant-General Jordan with one thousand five hundred Horse to the aid of the Sieneses against the Florentines, who not long after were met by the Sieneses near the River Arbia and receiv'd so great an overthrow, that they were forc'd to leave their City to the will of the Enemy. The Pope yet ceased not to persecute the tyrannical Lords, wheresoever they were, for when Ecelino, as was said, had seiz'd into his hands almost all the Venetian Territories and had laid Siege to Mantua, he immediately sent away Philip Fontanese, Arch-bishop of Ravenna to Venice, where having pub∣lish'd the Crusado, he got together a good Army, and with it drove Anselm, Ecelino's Nephew, out of Padua; upon news whereof Ecelino raises his Siege from before Mantua and marches in great haste to Verona, but un∣derstanding he could have no hopes of recovering Padua, he put to death with divers torments, all the Paduans he had in his Camp, to the number of twelve thousand. At this time the Friers Minors who were sent to Brescia, had by their preaching persuaded those Citizens to recal the banish'd Guelphs and to declare for the Church; and the same success they had had at Piacenza and Cremona, but that Obert Pallavicino, with the help of the Gibellines, had taken the Goverment into his sole Power. Against him then and Ecelino, his Confederate, the Pope's Legat assisted by the Guelphs, marches with his Army, but near Gambara he is defeated with great loss, and himself with the Bishop of Brescia and the chief of the Guelphish Faction, taken Prisoner, all whom upon the surrender of Bre∣scia, Ecelino let go free, An. Dom. 1249. This success of Ecelino, made the Legat Apostolick very fearful of the increase of his Power, and put him upon the design of bringing off Obert Pallavicino from his side; which he effected by the means of Boso Donario, a noble Citizen of Cremo∣na, who laying before him the barbarous and detestable cruelty of Ecelino, wrought upon him to throw off his Alliance with him, and to enter in∣to the League with the Milaneses and Mantuans, and those of the other confederate Cities. This much enrag'd Ecelino, seeing so many Enemies conspiring against him, so that rendezvousing his Army at Cassano, he from thence ravag'd all the Country about Milan, provoking the Asso∣ciated Cities to give him Battel; which they did, and not only vanquish'd him, but took him Prisoner, and he died soon after at Soncino of a wound he had receiv'd. Upon his death all the Cities of Lombardy recover'd their liberty, and became obedient Sons of the Church; and the Pope's Legat who had procur'd to the Paduans their freedom (as aforesaid) to make an end of all the reliques of the War, drives out of Treviso, and puts to death Alberic Brother to Ecelino, with his Wife and Children. Pope

Alexander having taken off these tyrannizing Lords and put an end to so many great confusions, set his mind upon renewing the War in Asia; but by reason of a quarrel which happen'd between the Genoeses and Vene∣tians, this pious and necessary Expedition was laid aside. The Chri∣stians then inhabited Ptolemais and Tyre, two opulent and wealthy Cities; which were especially peopled with Genoese, Pisan and Venetian Mer∣chants, who now for sixty four years had engross'd almost all the Trade both from East and West. These Merchants had their several Ex∣changes, their several Streets and Landing-places, and nothing was com∣mon to both the Venetians and Genoeses, but the Churches; when a contention arose between 'em about the Monastery of S. Saba, which each City claim'd to itself alone. The Pope would fain have composed the difference, and sent his Letters to both, willing that the Monastery should be equal free to both Nations; but the Genoeses having notice a∣forehand how the Pope intended to determine in the Case, by the fa∣vour of Philip Montfort, Prefect of the City, they excluded the Vene∣tians, possess'd themselves of the Monastery and fortified it. The Vene∣tians hereupon unanimously leave the City, and making League with Manfred King of Sicily, raise Forces against the Genoeses, and setting upon their Fleet, consisting of two Gallies and twenty three great Ships then in the Port of Ptolemais, they burn 'em and following their blow at the same time make themselves Masters of the Monastery of S. Saba, which they demolish'd. The Genoeses, rather enrag'd than terrified at this disaster, fit out another Fleet, to encounter the Venetians at Tyre, but they industriously avoiding a Battel, sail towards the Euxine, and take Selymbria from the Saracens and plunder it; after which both Nations recruiting their Forces, they steer for Tyre, the common Seat of War. The Pope fearful of the fatal consequences of this Contention, sends for the Ambassadours of both Countries, and makes himself a Media∣tor of Peace; which was welnigh agreed to, when news comes that the Venetians with their Allies, the Pisans, had between Tyre and Ptolemais routed the Genoeses, taking and sinking twenty five of their Ships; that thereupon the Victors were retreated to Ptolemais, and the vanquish'd were sled to Tyre; that all the Edifices of the Genoeses at Ptolemais were pull'd down, all their Merchandizes seiz'd as spoil, and the Ci∣tizens of that Nation expell'd the place. This havock made by the Venetians so highly displeased the Pope, that he would not admit their Ambassadour to Audience till they had set free all the Genoese Prisoners they had taken. Neither did this Calamity come alone to be the sub∣ject of the Pope's care, for Baldwin Emperour of Constantinople, (during whose prosperity, there seem'd yet to be some hopes left of recovering the holy Land) was about to quit that City: for Michael Palaeologus, who by the last Will of Theodore Lascari, was left Guardian to his two Sons did the Latins all the mischief that lay in his power, driving out of Achaia William a Frenchman, and teizing Baldwin with Seditions at home and open War abroad; who afterward going toward the Euxine Shore, in order to secure it from the Enemy, the Citizens of Constan∣tinople in the mean time at midnight let Michael Palaeologus into the City; upon news whereof Baldwin and the Patriarch Pantaleo retire from Pontus into Europe and lay by all thoughts of War. Palaeologus having thus rid himself of his Competitor and Enemy, murders his

two Pupils, and assumes the Empire, which after having been possess'd by the Latins forty eight years now was transferred to the Greeks. In the mean time Octavian Cardinal Ʋbaldino return'd to the Pope, with∣out having had any great luck in his negotiation at Naples, and the Pope having first at Anagni canoniz'd S. Clara a Franciscan Nun, went to Viterbo, to endeavour a Peace between the Venetians and Genoeses; in which Affair he met so much trouble and so many delays, that he died for grief in the seventh year of his Pontificate, and was honourably interred in St. Laurence's Church. The Sea was then vacant three months and four days. The life of this Pope is certainly much com∣mended by all Writers, he being said to have been bountiful and kind to all, but especially to the poor Religious; to whom the great love he bore caus'd him to comdemn by a perpetual Edict some Books writ∣ten by William de sancto Amore, against that sort of Poverty, wherein the wicked Fellow asserted that those who took upon them religious Habits to live by the Alms of other Men were not capable of Salva∣tion. He also publickly burnt another abominable Book, in which the Author affirm'd that a State of Grace was not to be obtain'd by the Law of the Gospel, but by the Law of the Spirit; which Opinion, he said, was taken out of the Writings of Abbat Joachim. This Book was call'd by those of that Sect, the Eternal Gospel. It was Alexander's custom, when he got leisure from publick Affairs to busie himself about somewhat that savour'd of Learning, for he compil'd Decretal Epistles, and gave such countenance to learned Men, that he promoted several of them to Cardinalates, particularly, Henry Cardinal of Ostia, a good Divine and an excellent Lawyer. He was also very liberal and muni∣ficent to Bartholomew, a Canonist of Brescia, who wrote much upon the Decretals; by which and by his extraordinary abilities and sancti∣ty he got great renown. By this means moreover the vaulted Church near that of S. Agnes, which had in old time been dedicated to Bac∣chus, was made capable of Divine Worship; and the Inscription in the Porch of the Church of S. Constance shews that the Altar there was consecrated by him.

ƲRBAN IV.

URBAN the fourth, born at Troyes in France, Patriarch of Jerusalem, was made Pope, and immediately listed French Soldiers to assist him against Manfredus who infested the Patrimony of S. Peter; for fear of whom Jordanes Ge∣neral of Manfredus his forces in Tuscany against the Guelphs was re∣call'd to Naples, which gave some breathing time to the Guelphs, espe∣cially those of Florence and Lucca, who had been by the Gibellines mark'd out for destruction. Lombardy was also plagu'd with the like Seditions, Hubert Pallavicino carrying on now the Interests of the Gi∣belline faction and persecuting the adverse party; though before by his Policy and moderate behaviour to both sides he had got the Com∣mand of Brescia by an universal consent. But the Citizens of Modena and Reggio, instigated by those of Ferrara and Bononia, fearing lest Pal∣lavicino should over-pour them all at last, revolted to the Popes side, and turn'd the Gibellines out of their Cities, giving their goods and effects to the Florentines who had been banish'd for Guelphism, by this means adding great strength to their faction. And thus went matters in Lom∣bardy, the Pope still earnestly endeavouring a Peace. At Constantinople the Venetians attempted to dethrone Palaeologus and had done it, but for his Friends and Associates the Genoese; this gave him the greater Power so that having taken Malvasia, he easily made resistance against the Venetians and William Prince of Achaia. The Pope was now in∣tent upon sending a Legate to procure a Peace betwixt the Venetians and Genoese, when Manfredus with a new body of Saracens seizes la Marca, the Inhabitants being before inclin'd to a Rebellion. The Pope therefore sends the same Legate to France, with order to make use of all manner of Promises and Intreaties to persuade those French who had taken upon them the Croisado, (who had been inform'd of the thing before-hand) to hasten their march thither; they presently under the conduct of Guy Bishop of Auxerre descend into Italy, and vanquishing Pallavicino at Brescia, without meeting any resistance, they come to Viterbo: from whence a little while after, having first receiv'd the Popes blessing, continuing their march through Ʋmbria and the Coun∣trey of Tagliacozzo, they beat the Saracens who had fled thither and pursu'd them as far as the Garigliano. At the same time the Romans, though they medled not with the Patrimony of the Church, yet they threw off obedience to the Pope, making what Magistrates they pleas∣ed; particularly, contrary to custom, by which they were to chuse for Senator a Roman onely, they elected one Brancaleon of Bononia, a man of a great spirit and very politick, to this high dignity and promised him great advantages; but this humour held not long, for they soon altered their minds and clap'd him in Prison. This affront gave great offence to the Bononians, who seizing several Romans, protested they would never release them, but upon the delivery of their Brancaleon; which so wrought upon the cautious Romans, that they not onely releas∣ed

him, but restor'd him to his former dignity; setting up also ano∣ther Court of men chosen out of every Ward in the City (whom they called Banderese) to whom they committed the Power of life and death. The Pope plainly found the reason of this insolence of the Romans to be that they observ'd how Manfredus had plagu'd him and that he was not able to help himself. That he might therefore at last free the Church from the tyranny of these men, he sent Legates to Lewis King of France, to exhort him, that he would assoon as possible send his Cousin and Son-in-law Charles Earl of Provence and Anjou with an Army into Italy; he intending upon the expulsion of Manfredus, to create him King of both Sicilies. And this no doubt he had done (so high were his resentments of the Ingratitude of Manfredus) if sickness had not taken him off from business. Which yet was brought to pass, as is supposed, by the following Pope. To the times of this Pope is ascribed Albertus a High German, of the Order of Friers Predicant, who for the vastness of his learning got the Surname of Magnus. He Commented upon all the Works of Aristotle and explain'd the Christian Religion with great acuteness; beside he wrought very accurately concerning the secrets of Nature; He also put forth a Book de Coaequaevis, where∣in he endeavours to shew the little difference that is between Theo∣logy and Natural Philosophy. He expounded a great part of the Holy Bible, and illustrated the Gospels and S. Paul's Epistles with excellent Notes. He began also a Body of Divinity, but liv'd not to perfect it. He was a man so modest and so much given to Study, that he refused the Bishoprick of Ratisbon, because it could not be manag'd with∣out trouble and force of Arms sometimes, as the Bishops of Germany are wont to do. He liv'd therefore in private at Cologn reading onely some publick Lectures. At length he died there in the eightieth year of his age, leaving behind him many Scholars for the good of Poste∣rity, especially Thomas Aquinas, who leaving his Countrey and his noble kinred (for he deriv'd his pedigree from the Counts of Apulia) and going to Cologn, he made such progress in learning, that after a few years he was made Professor at Paris; where he published four Books upon the Sentences, and wrote a Book against William de St. Amour a pernicious Fellow; Beside he put forth two Books, one de qualitate & essentiis, the other de principiis naturae. At last he was sent for to Rome by Ʋrban, but refusing those promotions that were offered him, he gave himself wholly to Reading and Writing. He set up a School at Rome, and at the desire of Ʋrban he wrote several Pieces, and ran through almost all Natural and Moral Philosophy with Commentaries, and set forth a Book contra Gentiles. He expounded the Book of Job, and compiled the Catena aurea. He composed also an Office for the Sacrament, in which most of the Types of the old Testament are ex∣plained. But to return to Ʋrban, he died at Perugia in the third year, first month and fourth day of his Pontificate, and was buried in the Ca∣thedral Church. The Sea then was vacant five months.

CLEMENT IV.

CLEMENT the fourth, formerly called Guidodi Fulcodio, a Narbonnese of S. Giles's deserv'd to be made Pope upon the account of his Holiness and Learning. For he being with∣out question the best Lawyer in France, and pleading with great integrity in the Kings Court, was created (after the death of his Wife by whom he had several Children) first of all Bishop of Pois, and then of Harbonne, and last of all a Cardinal by universal consent, and afterward was chosen out as the onely Person whose sincerity, and Au∣thority had qualified him, to compose the Differences between Henry King of England, and Simon Earl of Montford. As soon as he was cho∣sen Pope, some say he put on the Habit of a Religious Mendicant, and went incognito to Perugia. Thither immediately went the Cardinals, who having chosen him Pope though in his absence, attended upon him pompously to Viterbo. In the mean time Charles, whom, we said, Pope Ʋrban sent for, to bestow a Kingdom upon him, set out from Mar∣seilles with thirty Ships, and coming up the Tiber arriv'd at Rome: Where he lived as a Senator so long by the Popes order, till certain Cardinals, sent from his Holiness, came and declared him King of Je∣rusalem and Sicily in the Palace of St. Giovanni Laterano: upon this condition, that Charles should take an Oath to pay the Sea of Rome a yearly acknowledgment of forty thousand Crowns: and should not ac∣cept of the Roman Empire though it were freely offer'd to him. For there was at that time a great contest for the Empire between Alphon∣sus King of Castile (who sought to procure it by Power and bribery too) and the Earl of Cor••wall the King of Englands Brother, whom the Electors had no great thoughts of. Therefore lest Manfred should hope to make use of any quarrels between Alphonsus and Charles (to whom many people said the Empire was justly due, though he could not challenge it) the Pope animated Charles against Manfred as one that stood in Contempt of the Roman Church. For Charles's Army was already gotten over the Alpes into Italy, and marching through Romagnia, had brought all the Soldiers of the Guelphs Party as far as Rome. From whence Charles removed, and took not onely Ceperane, having beaten out Manfred's men, but posted himself in a Forest near Cassino, which Manfred himself had undertaken to defend: although his mind was soon alter'd, and he resolv'd to march for Benevento, to expect the Enemy in plain and spacious places, because his forces consisted most of Cavalry. Thither also did Charles move; and assoon as he had an opportunity to fight, did not decline it, though his Sol∣diers were very weary with travelling. Each of them encouraged their men to engage: But Charles coming to relieve a Troop of his Soldiers, that were like to be worsted, more eagerly than usually (as in such cases Military Men will do) he was knock'd down from his Horse, at which the Enemy was so transported, that Manfred fought carelesly out of rank and file▪ and was kill'd; which, when Charles appeared again

straight turn'd the fortune of the Day. For many of his men that ran away were kill'd, and a great many others taken Prisoners. Charles ha∣ving obtain'd so great a Victory removes to Benevento and marches in∣to it upon a voluntary surrender of the Citizens. From thence he went to storm Nocera de Pagani, where both the modern and the ancient Saracens lived, but sent his Mareschal into Tuscany with five hundred Horse, to restore the Guelphs that had been banished, into their own Cities. He was no sooner come thither but the Gibbelins departed on their own accord, and he without any disturbance appointed a certain number of Officers at Florence, which the neighbouring Natives call the Heads of the Guelphian Faction. Thence he moved against the Sienneses, and made all the Gibellins of Tuscany, but especially those of Pisa his Ene∣mies, because he besieged Poggibonci, which the Gibellines stoutly de∣fended. Now when Charles had reduced both Kingdoms, all but No∣cera de Pagani, he at last grants the Saracens a Peace, and let 'em live in Italy upon their own terms, as they thought good. But he himself with his Army upon the Popes invitation, went to Viterbo, where Henry, banish'd by his Brother, the King of Castile, was not long before arrived. Of whom when the Pope had heard Charles's good Character, he was so pleased with it, that he presented him with great things and made him a Senator of the City. After that Charles marched into Tuscany, to suppress the Gibellins, who desired Corradin a young Man, Nephew to Conrad of Schwaben, to come into Italy and assist them against the Guelphs. And seeing that he could not take Poggi∣bonci by storm, because it was so well fortified both by Art and Na∣ture, he resolved to starve it into a Surrender. And by that means after a long Siege he took it; and then going against them of Pisa, he took a Town of theirs, called Mutrone, and gave it to the State of Luc∣ca. Charles at that time was very likely to have done greater things, but that his friends called him hastily home to his Kingdom by reason of some factious People that favour'd Corradin's Party, but most of all upon account of the Saracens, whom he presently shut up in the strong Castles of Nocera de Pagani, that he might go the safer against Corradin, whom the men of Pisa endeavour'd to make their King, after they had not only laid waste all the Countrey of Lucca, but conquer'd and kill'd Charles's Mareschal at Arezzo, by the assistance, chiefly, of Guido of Montferrat, and all the Gibellin faction on that side the Alpes. They say, that as the Youth passed through the Countrey near Viterbo toward the Kingdom, the Pope, who pitied his condition, said in a Prophetick manner, that Cor∣radin himself was led as a Sacrifice to the slaughter. So then he went toward Rome, and was met at Ponte Molle by Henry the Senator together with all the people of Rome, who saluted him with loud acclamations by the name of Emperor; but whether out of fear or love, is not well known. At Rome he dismissed Guido of Montferrat, and went himself in all haste with his Army toward the Kingdom; where when he un∣derstood how Charles had taken possession of Compagna di Roma, and the great Road that goes through it, he turn'd away to the Moun∣tains called Tagliacocii, toward Marsi. And there he encamp'd first of all near the Lake, being fortified with an old Conduit, and ruinated Houses. Charles mov'd that way too, and pitch'd his Tents within ten furlongs of him at the entrance of an hollow Vale; where by ad∣vice

of Alardus a Neapolitane, who had been an old Soldier in Germany, he immediately sent away part of his Army under the command of his Marshal who was disguis'd like a King, with a design to provoke the Enemy. But he himself staid the mean while on the other side the Hill with his best Soldiers in Ambuscade to wait for a good occasion of doing his business effectually. They fought full three whole hours without being able to say who should have the better of it, till the Marshal who behav'd himself very bravely, fell. At whose death the French began to give back, but the Germans were more brisk than ever, and pursu'd them to all places without any manner of Order. By this means Charles came upon 'em in a Confusion, routed 'em and made 'em run for't, but kill'd a great many of 'em as they fled. Henry the Se∣nator was taken Prisoner at Rieti whilst he endeavour'd to escape; and Corradin being discover'd at the same time with the Duke of Austria, as he attempted to pass the Tiber and go by Boat into Tuscany, was brought to Charles and put to death: as the Pope, we told you, had prophesied it would shortly happen. Charles therefore in the year 1268, after so great a Victory, and having made himself absolute in the Kingdom, went to Rome, where for some time he acted as a Senator by the Popes per∣mission, and sent his Marshal into Tuscany: by whose pains and care a Peace was made between the Sieneses and the Florentines. But when Clement was dead, in the third year of his Popedom, and twenty first day, and buried at Viterbo, there was such a Difference presently not onely between the People of Italy, whom the godly Pope whilst alive had by his Authority, and awe upon them, kept within some kind of measures, but also between the Cardinals about the choice of a new Pope, that the Sea was void two years. At that time Charles, who took a great care, that the Church should not suffer any damage, went with part of his Army into Tuscany, where he took Poggibonci (the place from whence all the Troubles sprang) and sold it to the Floren∣tines. Which when they had demolish'd, they built a new Town, not far from thence upon a plain ground, which they call Poggibonci, where∣as the old one was called antiently Bonitium. After that Charles made Peace with those of Pisa, whose Ships he design'd to make use of to carry him over into Africk, and then intended to return to his King∣dom, leaving Ruffus Earl of Anguillara, with part of his Army in Tus∣cany, to keep the Tuscans in Order. In the mean time King Lewis set sail from Marseilles, and was follow'd by three of his Sons, Theo∣bald King of Navarre, and the Earl of Champaigne, together with an Apostolical Legate. All these arrived at Tunis the very same time, and besieging the City they destroyed all that ever came to their hands. But a Plague happening in the Camp, which for a good while had in∣fected none but inconsiderable Persons, at last took off Lewis with his youngest Son and the Legate. To him succeeded Philip his Son, who began now to think of going homeward. But Charles King of Sicily coming up to him, a Peace was concluded upon this Condition, that the Captives on both sides should be dismissed, and the King of the Countrey should pay Charles a certain Tribute, besides that he should suffer the Gospel to be freely preach'd in his Dominions. Then they brought back their forces into Sicily, where the King of Navarre, and the Earl of Campaigne died at Trapani; which made Philip and Charles,

partly for Devotion, and partly to avoid the Contagion, sail to Civita∣vecch••a, with an intent to go from thence by Land to Viterbo, where the Cardinals were still contending about the choice of a Pope. For they imagin'd, that the presence of two such great Kings would cer∣tainly move them (as it did) to make Theobald of Piacenza, Arch-dea∣con of Liege, Pope, though he were absent. But to return to Clement: Whose life is to be commended in every part of it for his Learning, Pie∣ty, Religion, Humanity, Charity to his Neighbours, and to all poor Christians. As for the goods or the Church, he distributed them at such a rate, and with such discretion, that he in all probability gave more to God, than to his own Relations. He had two Daughters by his Wife who died before his Popedom: to one of which, that liv'd in a Nun∣nery, he gave thirty pounds of small Deniers Tournois, and to the other, who was married to a man of an equal fortune, he ordered a portion of three hundred pounds Tournois, upon condition she should never ask for one penny more. He had besides a Nephew that was a Clergy-man, whom when he found to have three Prebends (for so they call Canon∣ries) he forced him to take his choice, which of 'em he would keep and leave the other two. But when his friends were urgent with him not onely to let his Nephew enjoy what he already had, but give him more, and greater preferments, the Holy Man made answer, (I would the Popes in our time would follow his Example) that he would obey God, and not flesh and bloud:

That it was Gods pleasure, what be∣long'd to the Church should be bestow'd to charitable uses, nor was he worthy to be S. Peter's Successor, who would give more to his Kind∣red than to Religion and to Christ.

But whilst he was at Viterbo, and news was daily brought to him that Ednigeth, a Dutchess of Po∣land, who had been long dead was in very great esteem for her Mi∣racles, he canoniz'd her. He was also wonderfully satisfied with the Doctrine of Bonaventure, General of the Order of Friers Minors, who at that time wrote gravely, and copiously upon the first, second, third, and fourth Books of the Sentences. Now the Holy Man dying with such a Character was much lamented and miss'd by all men. And hence arose the Controversie among the Cardinals, to find out a fit Per∣son to succeed Clement.

GREGORY X.

GREGORY the tenth, formerly called Theo••ald, an Italian, born at Piac••nza, and Arch deacon of Liege, was created Pope by the Colledg of Cardinals at Viterbo, whilst he was in Asia. For at that time, when Lewis went into Africa, Edward, Son to the King of England, sailed from England into Asia with a great Navy, in order to regain the holy Land. But staying so long at Ptolemais, till Lewis, King of France came out of Africa with Victory, according to his promise, he was stab'd in three places by one Arsaci∣da, a Companion of his, as he was alone in his Bed chamber, and by the assistance of another friend of his, very hardly escaped his Death.

For that other person held the Russians hand so long, till the People of the House came in, who tare treacherous Arsacida to pieces, and dragg'd him out of the Room. But Edward, when he was cured of his Wounds, had a great esteem for his friend Theobald, because he conti∣nually animated all Christian Kings and Princes against the Saracens; and when he went to Rome in order to receive the Popedom, being sent for by the Cardinals, who had elected him, he assisted him extra∣ordinarily with a Ship, with Money, and a splendid equipage, espe∣cially at that time, when Henry a Youth, and Son of Richard Earl of Cornwall, who was lately dead, came to Viterbo to see Clement. After whose death, staying there for some time, he was unluckily kill'd. For Guido Monford, who went to the Cathedral Church along with Phi∣lip the French King, to hear Divine Service, stabbed him before the Al∣tar; because his Father Simon had been basely murther'd in England by Richard. He having reveng'd his Fathers death in this manner, he escaped with safety to Ruffus, Governour of Tuscany. Not long after Philip and Charles, vexed at such an Indignity went from Viterbo, the former into France, the latter into Puglia. For having made a Peace with the Saracens, Charles went along with Theobald (who was arri∣ved at Siponto, now call'd Manfredonia) as far as Ceperano. From thence his Holiness travell'd through Marsi, and Sabini to Viterbo: where he was receiv'd by the Cardinals with all Respect and Honour imaginable, and being crown'd with the Pontifical Diadem, he was in∣vested with all the Power that Christ left Peter. When that was done, and that he had setled the Popedom for a time, he was desirous to make Peace between the Genoeses and the Venetians. For these two States had been engaged one with another in great and bloudy Conflicts for a long time. Upon this account Philip King of France, who tarried at Cremona, was prevail'd upon by the Pope to send for the Genoese, and Venetian Embassadors, and made a Peace between 'em for five years, that they might all go in one body against the Saracens. Italy was now quiet, when the beginning of an universal disorder rose from the Venetians now Exactions. For they made a Law, that no one should sail in the Adriatick, especially from Pola to Venice, unless they paid a Gabel according to the value of their goods. But the Bologneses could not endure this, as being at that time masters of a great part of Romagna, and therefore for three years together they fought the Venetians with great variety of Fortune. At last being tired out they accepted of a Peace upon this Condition, that they should demolish a Castle, which they had built upon the ve∣ry mouth of Po, that they should have free leave to carry out some goods that were there, and then the Venetians should have the sole custody of the Mouth of the River Po. They also of Ancona were of∣fended, that the Venetians challenged the absolute dominion of the A∣driatick Sea, and exacted Custom from those that sailed there. And hereof they complain'd to the Pope, whose Duty it is to see, that no new Taxes be imposed. He therefore immediately commanded the Venetians, to take off that Imposition, who answered him in these very words.

That the Pope did not perfectly understand the mat∣ter, and that when he did, he would be able to judg better of it.

Gregory could not make an end of this matter to his mind: because

he was forced to go to the Council, which he had called at Lyons. Thither also went Paleologus Emperor of Constantinople with a great Retinue; and made the Greeks comply and subscribe to the Opinion of the Church of Rome now the thirteenth time, they having so often revolted. Nay farther, some Noblemen of Tartary were induced by his Authority to receive Baptism. Mean time, the Western Empire being vacant, Rodolphus, Earl of Assia is made Emperor by the Electors, upon condition that he would go to Rome the next year, to receive the Crown there. But the Florentines who were Guelphs immediately turned out their Countrymen the Gibellins, though they had been restored to their Countrey by Gregory, as he went into France. At which the Pope was so angry, that he interdicted them from all bene∣fit of the Law, and was very near doing the same thing by the Bolog∣neses, who had ejected the Lambertescii and the Asinelli, Gibellins of noble Families: but they suffer'd for it not long after. For when they went to fight against the Forleses, that had kindly entertain'd some persons whom they had banish'd; 'tis said, eight thousand of the Bologneses were slain at one Sally from the Town. Upon which mis∣fortune some Cities of Romagna grew confident, and immediately re∣volted from the Bologneses themselves. Especially Cervia, from whence they received a great Revenue out of Salt. But Gregory when he had dismissed the Council at Lyons, in which many Decrees were made, re∣lating to the choice of Popes, the expedition against the Saracens, the union of the Greek and Latin Churches, and the peace of Christendom, as he was going into Italy, he met Alphonso King of Castile at Bellocado∣ro, complaining grievously that he had given the Empire to Rodul∣phus. But when the Pope had satisfied him, he resign'd all his right to Rodulphus. The Pope was very kindly receiv'd by all the Italians as he travell'd through Tuscany, but shunn'd the Florentines on purpose, and went to Arezzo, lest they should have prevailed with him to take off his Interdiction, At Arezzo he died in the fourth year, second month, and tenth day of his Pontificate and there he was buried. He was a Man of an extraordinary Reputation through his whole Life, for Prudence in the conduct of his Affairs, for Courage, and greatness of Mind, that made him contemn Money and all mean things: for hu∣manity, clemency, bounty to poor Christians, and those especially that fled for refuge into the bosom of the Apostolick Sea.

INNOCENT V.

INNOCENT the fifth, formerly called Peter of Tarantaise, a Burgundian, a Dominican, a man very learned in holy Writ was created Pope at Arezzo in the year of our Lord 1275. From thence not long after he went to Rome, where he was crown'd in S. Peter's Church, and from that time immediately apply'd himself to compose the Affairs of Italy. To this end he sent Legats (men of great Authority) to command not onely the people of Tuscany (who con∣spir'd the ruin of those of Pisa) but also the Genoeses and Venetians

(who were mortal Enemies) to quit their Arms. Assistant to them were the Embassadors of Charles, the King, by whose Awe over them he hoped to have his business done more to his mind. The People of Tuscany did as he commanded them, but especially the Floren∣tines, whom the Pope absolv'd from Gregory's Interdiction upon that very score: But the Genoeses and Venetians, whose hatred was more inveterate, were still in Arms, perpetually butchering each other: and yet Innocent, if he had lived a little longer, had brought them over to his Opinion; so zealous he was in that matter. But he died in the sixth month and second day of his Pontificate, and was buried in the Lateran Church. Now the secular Priests had no great reason to la∣ment his death by reason of a Sentence which he gave just before he dy'd. For when there arose a Dispute between the Priests of the Ca∣thedral Church, and the Friers Preachers concerning the body of Cle∣ment the fourth (for each Order desired to have the disposing of it) he gave judgment that it ought to be committed to the Friers; for he said his Holiness had order'd it so whilst he was alive. Upon this account Innocent was a little maligned: but was otherwise a very good Man, and such a Person from whom those of his time might have expected all the good imaginable.

ADRIAN V.

ADRIAN the fifth, a Genoese, of the Family of the Flisci, before called Othobon, was made Pope at Rome in the Court of the Lateran. He was Innocent the fourth's Nephew; by whom he was created Cardinal Deacon of S. Adrian, and sent Legat into England with plenary Power to compose the differences between that King and his Barons. Assoon as he was made Pope he presently went to Viterbo, and invites Rodulphus the Emperor into Italy, to lessen the Power of Charles, who at that time did what he pleas'd at Rome. But Rodulphus being ingaged in the Bohemian War, could not com∣ply with Adrian. In the mean time Charles was very cautious, to avoid the envy of the World, and turn'd all the stress of the War upon Achaia, so to make his way toward the Empire of Constantinople. But Adrian dying in the fortieth day of his Pontificate, he came back into Italy. This Pope died at Viterbo before his consecration, and was buried in a Convent of Freres Minors. He had an intention not onely more and more to secure the Churches Patrimony from Tyrants, but also to re∣duce Gregory's Decree for the Choice of a Pope into a better method, not totally to abolish it. But Death obstructed his endeavours, and withstood the greatness of his Mind. The Sea at that time was vacant twenty eight days.

JOHN XXII.

JOHN the Twenty-Second, a Spaniard, born at Lisbon, and formerly call'd Peter, was made Pope, being then Bishop of Frascati. Who, though he were reckon'd a very learned man, yet by his ignorance in business, and the unevenness of his Conversation he did the Popedom more injury than Honour or kindness. For he did many things that argued him to be guilty of Folly and Levity: and does not deserve commendations unless it be for one thing; and that was; that he assisted young Scholars especially the poorer sort with money and preferments. At that time the Venetians infested those of Ancona for Merchandizing in Dalmatia without pay∣ing any custom to the Venetians: and yet the Pope himself to whom they were tributary, did not protect them as he should have done; but onely seemed ready with his Tongue to say what he was too much a Coward ever to do. Nevertheless, the Anconeses, though the Pope would not aid them, took courage and made a Sally so briskly, that they rais'd the Siege, and drave the Venetians from the Town a good way, not with∣out considerable damage to them. By the advice of John Cajetan (who govern'd all things at that time, for that he was made Pope by his as∣sistance and the Votes he procured) he sent Legats to Paleologus, and all the Western Kings, to exhort 'em in his name, that they would make Peace with one another, and bend their Forces against the Sara∣cens and other Enemies of Christianity. The Man was a Fool to pro∣mise himself a long Life, and to tell every body he should live a great while: because every body knew his life and Conversation; he was so immodest, and so sottish. But behold, as he was betraying his Folly to all that were about him, a certain new Apartment that he had built in the Palace at Viterbo fell down all of the sudden, and he was found among the Wood and the stones seven days after the fall of it: but he receiv'd the Sacraments of the Church and then died in the eighth month of his Pontificate, and was buried at Viterbo. He was a Man (as I said before) of great Learning but little Prudence. For he wrote many Tracts in his life, especially certain Rules relating to Phy∣sick: for he was counted a very good Physician. He wrote also ano∣ther Book and called it Thesaurus Pauperum, or the Poors Treasure, and set out Problems in imitation of Aristotle. But 'tis certain, however it comes to be so, that many very learned Men are not at all fit for bu∣siness. Yet I need not doubt how it comes to pass, but take it rather for a greater Wonder, if he that takes pleasure in Contemplation, should apply his mind to Wordly Affairs too.

NICOLAS III.

NICOLAS the Third, a Roman, of the Family of the Ʋrsini, formerly called John Cajetan, was made Pope at last, after the Election had been six months in suspence, by reason of a great Contest that was among the Cardinals. Now the King of Sicily as Senator, had the guard of the Conclave at that time, and was very urgent with 'em, to chuse a French-man. But Nicolas, assoon as he began his Reign, in the year 1278, resolv'd to restrain Charles's Power, and took from him the Lieutenancy of Tuscany; because, he said, that Rodulphus took it ill, and would not perform his promise of going upon the Expedition into the holy Land upon any other terms, since Tuscany was reckon'd to belong to the jurisdiction of the Empire. Though the Pope gain'd this point, yet he reduced Romagna and Bologna it self together with the Exarchate of Ravenna, which at that time were un∣der the Emperor, and made 'em subject to himself. And thither he sent Bertholdus his Nephew, who was declared Earl of Romagna. He sent also another Nephew of his that was a Cardinal, called Latinus, Legat into Tuscany; who restored the Gibellins in all places, and impo∣sed what Officers he pleased upon the Citizens at Florence and in other parts of Tuscany. But the Office of Senator, which used to be granted, or committed to Kings and Princes, he discharg'd himself alone. He would not see the Embassadors from the Venetians (who at that time harass'd the Anconeses with War) and so they departed. But he called 'em back, and chid 'em severely; nay he threaten'd to ruin their City, if they did not desist from besieging, or storming Ancona. At length when both parties had suffer'd great inconveniencies, they made a Peace upon equal terms. But this Pope had a mind to create two Kings, both of the Ʋrsini; one of Tuscany, and the other of Lombardy; to keep those Germans on the one side (that inhabit part of the Alps) and the French on the other side, that lived in Sicily and Naples, with∣in their bounds. And to bring it about, he persuaded Peter King of Aragon, to endeavour the recovery of the Kingdom of Sicily upon the title of his Wife Constantia who was heir to it: And he took the Honour of Senator from Charles and conferr'd it upon himself; and made an everlasting Edict, that no King or Prince should dare to sue for, or bear that Office. This Nicolas (as Authors say) was a man of great courage and conduct, and so perfect in his life and conversation, that in Italian he was commonly called il Composto or Composto. He was a lover and admirer of learned men, especially of those who had Learn∣ing mingled with prudence and Religion. But he was reckon'd impar∣tial to all in the distribution of honours and dignities. For at his first Ordination, he chose a Bishop for Alba out of the Order of Minors, for Ostia and Porto out of the Preachers. The Bishops of Palestrina and Trescat, were Seculars. He created besides these, two Cardinal-Priests, that is to say, Gerard, with the Title of the Twelve Apostles, and Je∣rome of the Order of Minors, with the Title of S. Pudentiana. To

them he added two Deacons, that is to say, Jordan his Brother, Cardi∣nal of S. Eustachius, a man of much Learning and innocence; and James Colonna of S. Maries in Via lata, a person of great Religion and gra∣vity. He adorn'd, and enlarged the Papal Palace with other Buildings which he added. For he built a convenient house nigh S, Peters (part of which is yet to be seen) which Nicolas the fifth afterward repair'd to his great cost and charge. He also walled S. Peter's Garden, which now they call Belvedere. Then he repair'd S. Peter's Church when it was ready to fall with age, and adorn'd it with the Pictures of the Popes. The same he did in S. Pauls. More than all this, he advan∣ced divine Worship most wonderfully, by encreasing the number of Canons, and the provision that had been made for those who serv'd in Churches. Again, he divided the Ecclesiastick Orders and appointed to each their Offices. He likewise assigned every one his Lodging, that even Strangers might know where every Officer, especially the chief Officer was to be found. He finish'd the Lateran Palace which was begun be∣fore by Adrian the fifth. He built the Sancta Sanctorum from the ground, after the first Chappel was ruin'd with age: and beautified the Church it self with Mosaic work (as it is now to be seen) and with plaister of Marble. And thither he removed the Apostles heads, till he had reqair'd St. John's Church at his own Charge. But when it was finish'd, he presently brought 'em back again, in Silver Cases made by his Order, and, attended by all the People, he laid 'em up in the Chap∣pel which was built for the purpose. The same day he consecrated the Church, that is, upon the eighth of July. Some Historians say, that no one ever said Mass with more Devotion than he; for during the performance of that Divine Office, he constantly wept. He was very godly, and such a Lover of the Friers Minors for that they contemn'd the World, that he has explain'd many doubts relating to that Order in a decretal Epistle. When Churches were void, there never was a Pope, that took care sooner or more deliberately; giving them to the best and the fittest Men he could find. For he first look'd into a mans life and his Learning, and then gave immediately the vacant Seas to those that he thought wor∣thy. For he used to say Delays were dangerous; because there were such men in the World, as would commit Sacriledg with all their hearts. He could not endure Proctors, and Attornies, because they liv'd upon the bloud of the Poor; and those that went to Law, but hated them as a Plague: in which he imitated Gregory X. and John XXI. But because there were great corruptions among Magistrates in all places; he or∣dain'd, that all Offices should be annual only; and if any one durst to hold 'em longer, he was liable to an Anathema, from which he could not be ab∣solv'd but by the Pope himself. Besides these things he did a great many more for the good of the Clergy and all Christian People, as it appears in his Titles. And yet he had his faults too, amidst all these commenda∣tions. For he is said to have lov'd his Relations to such a degree, as that he would rob others to give to them. For he took Castles from some Noble Romans, and gave 'em to his own kindred, particularly that at Soriano; Where, though he was a most temperate man, yet he died suddenly in the third year, eighth month, and fifteenth day of his Ponti∣ficate. Whose death they say some body foretold by a presage drawn from the swelling of the River Tiber. For it rose so high, that it was

four feet and more above the Altar in round S. Maries. But his body was carried to Rome and buried in the Chappel of S. Nicolas which he built in S. Peter's, in a Marble Tomb beautified with Fret-work, still to be seen, An. Dom. 1280. eight days after the Assumption. This year Charles the King, adorn'd, and honour'd the Body of S. Magdalen, which S. Maximin had buried in a Town of his own name, with a more mag∣nificent Tomb and a bigger Chappel: and laid her head up in a Silver Case separate from her body. Now they say, that upon the death of Nicolas, the Sea was vacant five months. For whilst the Cardinals were about electing a new Pope at Viterbo, and one Richard, of the Family of the Hannibals (which is the best in all Rome) was Keeper of the Conclave, two Cardinals of the Ʋrsini did what they could to hinder the Election, unless Richard, who was a bitter Enemy to the Ʋrsini, would restore Ʋrsus, Nephew to Nicolas lately deceased, to his Govern∣ment of Viterbo, from which he had not long before deposed him. For this reason the people of Viterbo sided with Richard, went into the Con∣clave, took the Cardinals and imprison'd them. Which when it was known at Rome, the same faction of the Hannibals drove the Ʋrsini out of the City: who seeing they were forced to depart, went all to∣gether, and retir'd as far as Proeneste. So that the French Cardinals (when the Ʋrsini were gone) out-voted the Italians, and chose a French Pope about the end of the fifth month.

MARTIN IV.

MARTIN the fourth, formerly called Simon, a Cardinal Priest of S. Caecilie, and a French man of Tours, being chosen Pope, would not be crown'd at Viterbo, because he thought that City ought not to be made use of in such a solemn occasion, where the Cardinals had been so assaulted. And therefore he went to Orvieto, an ancient City, and there performed all the Ceremonies upon the 23d day of March. And upon Easter day he created six Cardi∣nals; of which the Earl of Millain had the Title of S. Marcellin and Peter; and Benedict Cajetanus had that of S. Nicolas in the Prison. As for Charles, the King, he not onely receiv'd him kindly when he came to him, but he gave him his former Senatorian Dignity, whereof Ni∣colas had deprived him. But this was not so very well approv'd on by all, because it was like to cause great Tumults in the City, the Ʋrsini being now restored and the Hannibali banish'd. For Charles was a mighty Enemy to the Ʋrsini, for Nicolas's sake, whom he hated. For this reason John, to revenge the injuries done to his Brother Latinus, and in defence of the Dignity conferr'd upon himself by the Romans, got a good Army together, and marching toward Viterbo, spoiled all their Countrey far and near. But Martin, who was then in Mon∣tefiascone, being concern'd at the misery of the Viterbeses, sent Mat∣thew, a Cardinal of the Ʋrsine Family to Rome in all haste to compose the business; who took John, the Captain of the Roman People, whom he met upon the Road, along with him. Thither came all the Heads

of the Factions by command from the Legat, especially Richard Hanni∣bal, to be absolved by the Legat from that Interdiction, that he in∣curr'd at Viterbo, for breaking into the Conclave, and imprisoning the Cardinals Ʋrsini. He therefore laid himself at the Cardinals feet, with a Rope about his neck, (as the greatest sign of penitence) and after he had beg'd pardon was absolv'd. Peace being thus made between both the factions, and the Roman Army called back from plundering the Viter∣boses, the Pope immediately grants the Romans a Power to choose two Senators out of themselves, that should govern the City. Accordingly two were chosen, Hannibal, Son of Peter Hannibali, and Pandulphus Sa∣velli, who ruled the City very well all the time they were in Office: Especially at that time when Pope Martin, at the request of Charles King of Sicily, excommunicated Palaeologus for not keeping the Ar∣ticles of Alliance made between them. But then Palaeologus fearing Charles's Power, made a private League with Peter King of Aragon, who laid claim to the Kingdom of Sicily in right of his Wife Constantia, Manfred's Daughter and Corradin's Niece. Hereupon they prepared a great Navy at the common charge of 'em both: which made the Pope send to Peter, to know of him, what he meant by all those pre∣parations. Peter told him, that if he thought his Shirt could know what his intentions were, he would tear it from his Body. So the Legat went away without any satisfaction: And Peter when he had gotten his Navy ready sails into Africa, where he pillaged the Coast at Tunis extreamly, and then returning into Sardinia expected to hear of some new commotions in Sicily by the contrivance of John Prochita, according to an agreement they had made. In the mean time new broils arose in Lombardy. For the Viconti a noble Family there, under the command of Luchino, drave the Turriani another potent Family out of Millain. Which Luchino was afterwards sent as Lieutenant to the Em∣peror into Tuscany, where he resided at St. Miniato, and plagued the Fl••rentines and Luccases with grievous incursions, not regarding the Popes interdictions, with which he thought to have affrighted him from troubling these his Friends and Allies. Those also of Perugia were now in Arms, and did so press the Fuligneses, that they took their City, and demolish'd part of the Walls. Thereupon the Pope excom∣municated 'em; but paying a good sum of money to him for penance they soon obtained his pardon. In the mean time the Sicilians, whose motions Peter attended in Sardinia, could no longer endure the pride and licentiousness of the French, and therefore were persuaded by John Prochita to enter into a Conspiracy against Charl••s, that upon such a day in the Evening when they should hear such a Bell ring, they should fall on and kill the French without respect to Sex or Age. In which action 'tis said, they were so true to their barbarous Promise, that even those Sicilian Women were killed who were with Child by French men; Hence comes it that the Sicilian Vespers is grown a By-word for any great Massacre. At this time Guido Appius met with ill fortune, when he was sent in the Popes name with eight hundred French Horse to re∣cover Ro••agna. For as they sate before Forli, and the Citizens would fain have s••l••ied out, one Guido Bonatus an excellent Astrologer▪ exhor∣ed his fellow Citizens to wait till such time as the Stars should promise good luck, and make their Sally when he gave 'em the Signal. They

did as he would have them, and breaking forth in the very nick of time they kill'd Guido and almost all his French men. Thus was that City freed from a great Siege. But Charles when he heard how the Sici∣lians had revolted, and of their cruelty too, went over into Sicily with a very considerable Army. And first he besieged Messina, which he had certainly taken by Surrender, but that the French, desirous of Re∣venge had threaten'd to raze the City. Besides Peter of Aragon, who expected (as I told you) such commotions, no sooner heard of it, but he comes over with all speed from Sardinia into Sicily, and arriving at Palermo, he was very kindly received by the Citizens and all the other Sicilians, who also saluted him by the name of King, whilst all the Rabble flock'd about him. Charles was frighted at this, and therefore leaving Messina he went immediately into Calabria, to stay for his Son the Prince of Salerno, who, he knew would come very shortly out of the Province of Narbonne with some Recruits. Charles expostulated with Peter of Aragon, that he who was his Relation, nay of the same bloud too should dare to invade his Kingdom. To which he reply'd, that he was so compassionate, as that he could not deny his assistance to a miserable people that were so hardly used: though he said too, that the Kingdom belong'd to him by right of inheritance, as he was Husband to Constantia, Monford's Daughter, and Corradins Niece. At last when words grew high on both sides, it came to a Duel; upon this condition though, that each King should have an hundred men a∣long with him, as being to engage in such a weighty Combat, and the place where they were to fight was to be Bourdeaux. For both these Kings were akin to the King of England, who with the assistance of Pope Martin at length made up the difference. But when Peter, for all that, made War upon Charles, Martin sent Gerard, Cardinal of Par∣ma, his Legat to Naples, not onely to keep the People in Allegiance to him, but to assist him who was but a youth with good counsel and the awe of his presence. But when Peter had sent Rogeris Lorias, his Ad∣miral to Naples, Charles moved toward the Enemy and not far from Naples was conquer'd with the loss of a great many men: nor onely so, but he was taken, and carry'd first into Sicily and then into Aragon. But this, without question, had never happen'd if he would but have hearken'd to the Legat, (as he should have done) who was of a con∣trary opinion; who dissuaded him and told him that such a mighty Kingdom as that was, ought not to be hazarded at that rate. For not long after his Father Charles came with a great Navy, which would have made him able to have coped with the Enemy before he was a Con∣queror. But Martin being concern'd very much for Charles's misfor∣tune, excommunicates Peter of Aragon, and gives his Kingdom for a prey to any one that can or will take possession of it; absolving his Sub∣jects from their Oath of Allegiance to him, and exciting all Christians against him, as an Usurper of the Churches Patrimony, according to his opinion. Nay, he would have sent the Church-Militia to help Charles, but that he was fain to wage War in Romagna himself against the Forleses, who by the aid of Guido Earl of Monford, were so bold as to revolt from the Church, and attaque some Forts thereabouts. But when Guido himself repented of what he had done, and had made Peace with the Pope, he not onely demolish'd the Walls of Forli in revenge

to Guido Appius, but he recover'd a great part of Romagna in a short time. He had also taken Ʋrbino as sure as he attempted it, but that Rubeus Anguillarius, Earl of Tuscany died in the action. There were at that time two Generals that commanded the Camp: one of which was sent into Tuscany to defend that part of the Countrey that lies toward the Soane, and the other (whom they call Earl of Giovenazzo) continu'd the Siege by the Popes Order, whilst Guido Montefeltranus supplied the very Townsmen with necessaries under-hand. But in the mean time when Martin was at a loss from which of the two States, Pisa or Genoa, he should desire Auxiliaries against Peter of Aragon, there arose im∣mediately such a quarrel between them about the possession of Corsica, that they themselves were fain to beg assistance one against another. Then the Pope sent word to the Apostolical Legat, that he should keep the people in order, till Charles came with a supply. After which Charles went into Naples, and having setled the peoples minds sailed in∣to Africa where he died of a Fever: upon which occasion all the weight of the Government devolv'd upon the Legat. At that time there was a rumour, and almost a currant Report, that Philip Son of the French King, and Earl of Artois was coming to receive that Kingdom. But that did not frighten Peter from spoiling the Country, because he was sure he came with a small number: For his Father Philip was going into Aragon with a great Army, to take possession of Peter's Kingdom, which Martin the Pope, by heavy Censures first laid upon him, had exposed as a booty to any one that could get it. But the Pope being surrounded with so many cares, and those increased too by new tumults at Orvieto (for the Gibellins had banish'd the Guelphs) he went to Perugia: where not long after he died of an hectick Fever in the fourth year, and first month of his Pontificate, and was buried in the Cathedral. At whose Tomb many sick, blind, deaf, and lame people that are brought thi∣ther, recover from God their former health by the merits of this most holy Pope.

HONORIƲS IV.

HONORIƲS the fourth, a Roman, of the Race of the Sa∣bini (a very noble Family) formerly called James, a Cardi∣nal Deacon, was made Pope at Perugia, and came to Rome in the year 1285. when his Brother Pandulphus was Senator. For Pandulphus was esteemed a Person of so much severity, and Justice, that whenever the Citizens of Rome had a mind to purge the City of Robbers, Ruffians, Thieves and Parricides (of which at that time there were great numbers in Rome, among the Seditious) they desired no other Senator than Pandulphus. And he, though mightily tormented with the Gout both in his feet and his hands; yet in courage and constancy of mind he was inferiour to none of those that had their health. Hono∣rius also was sometimes troubled with the same Distemper, insomuch that he was forced to make use of certain Instruments made for the purpose to support him, when he performed the Priestly Office. But

he was a Man of that Conduct and Prudence, that he did not seem much deficient in corporal strength: for he himself could discern ra∣ther more of the Affairs of the City, than those that were in it besides, put 'em all together. He lived in the Mount di S. Sabina, and built him a curious Palace there (whose ruins are yet to be seen) which drew many of the Romans to live by him; so that the Mount began from his time to be very full of Inhabitants. He was resolved to injure no Man whilst he was Pope, but on the contrary to do what good he could to all; and therefore being provoked by the indignities which Peter King of Aragon offer'd to him, by endeavouring to get the King∣dom of Sicily, he confirmed Martin's Interdictions against Peter. But Rodulphus the Emperor, having a great mind to raise money, sent his Chancellour (one of the Family of the Flisci) into Tuscany; to make all the Country free, especially those who would buy their Liberty. Those of Lucca paid upon that account 12000l. The Florentines six thousand: and as soon as they were made perfectly free, they crea∣ted a certain kind of Officers (which they call Arts-masters) with a Sword-Bearer. This Sale did not displease Honorius, though it look'd too mean for such a great Prince; because by that means the Patrimo∣ny of the Church would be more secure, he thought, when the Em∣peror had no more power to oppress those free Cities. But whilst the King of France besieged Girona, and Peter of Aragon was sollicitous, how to hinder the carriage of Provisions from Narbonne into the Ene∣mies Camp, he was engaged in a sharp Conflict, where he received a deadly Wound, of which not long after he dy'd for want of looking to. So that Girona was surrender'd upon Terms, and submitted to the King of France; though he did not long survive the Conquest. For he died of a Fever which he caught in the Camp, as he was besieging Per∣pignano. His Navy too, not long after that, was taken and burnt in the Port of Narbonne by Roger Loria. Peter of Aragon had two Sons, Ferdinand and James; whereof he left Ferdinand, his eldest Son, King of Aragon by his Will, and James, King of Sicily. But when the old Kings were dead, in that manner, as I have told you, the Wars de∣volved upon the young ones; who attempted on both sides to make those of Pisa, and the Genoeses, who were excellent Seamen, of their Party. But these two States heing incens'd and arm'd against each o∣ther, engaged so furiously at Malora, an Island near the Port of Pisa, that those of Pisa lost forty Ships, or Gallies, and twelve thousand men; which were partly slain, and partly taken. Honorius took this misfortune of theirs so much to heart, that he had like to have inter∣dicted the Genoeses, who pursu'd the men of Pisa with too much ani∣mosity. And that unhappy day gave such a shock to those of Pisa, that they never retrieved themselves since. But Edward King of En∣gland went at that time into Gascoigne, to make peace between Charles, a Youth, Son to the King of France (who I told you was taken in War) and Ferdinand, King of Aragon. The business went as he would have it, and they treated about Charles's freedom, when at the same time the Apostolical Legate, and the Earl of Arras, with the assistance of the Earl of Avellino, possess themselves of the City Catina, and send over thither an Army raised out of Tuscany. For this reason Edward return'd home without success. But Roger Loria advanced King Ferdi∣nand's

fortune by taking the French Fleet as it came back out of Sicily. Honorius could not engage in this War, because he was invaded in Ro∣magna by Guido Feltrini. But at length, when he had conquer'd Guido he recover'd all Romagna in a short time: and not long after dy'd, two years and a day after he was made Pope. His body was carried in great State from S. Sabina to S. Peter's, and buried in a Marble Tomb, which is yet extant among those that Pope Pius collected, as the Arms of his Family and the Inscription declare; And indeed he deserv'd all the honour paid to his dead Corps; because he was a very upright Man, and a great lover of Christian Piety. For he confirm'd not onely the Order of the Carmelites, which was not very well approved of in some Councils, and chang'd their black Cloaks for white ones; but he did the same also by the order of Eremites, which was disapproved on at Paris. But the onely Cardinal, he made, during his Pontificate, was John Boccamatius, Bishop of Frascati: for he would say, that none but good and learned men ought to be taken into so great a Society; not those that were illiterate, and ignorant in the manage of humane Affairs. He loved Courtiers so, as that he would go every year, especially in the Summer, to Tivoli, on purpose to avoid the Heat of the Town, which causes many Diseases. When Honorius was dead, the Sea was vacant ten months. For the Conclave being summon'd to meet at St. Sabina, a great many of the Cardinals were taken sick of a sudden. Out of whom there died Jordan Ʋrsin, Earl of Millain, Hugh an English man, Gervase of Anjou, Dean of Paris, and Antherius, an excellent Person. For this reason they dismiss'd the Conclave, and deferr'd the matter till a more seasonable time; especially because of the Earthquakes, which were then so great, that they thought Heaven it self would be angry with 'em, if they did it at that time.

NICOLAS IV.

NICOLAS the fourth, of Principato-citra, an Ascolese, for∣merly called Jerome, a Brother, and General of the Order of Friers Minors, and after that a Cardinal Priest, was made Pope at St. Sabina, the tenth month after Honorius's death, and placed not onely in Peter's Sea, but in the Saint's own Chair. Af∣ter that he went to Rieti to avoid some Tumults at Rome; and there he created Cardinals of almost all Religions. For he loved all men alike, nor did he think that he ow'd more to his Relations, than to any good man. The difference between Virtue and Vice caused him to incline more to one man than another. Some of those that he made Cardinals were called Neapolio, Petrus Columna, Hugo Colionius, a famous Doctor of the Order of Preachers, Matthaeus Aquasparta, General of the Mi∣nors, and Bishop of Porto. About a year after he came back to Rome, when City broils were somewhat appeased, and lived at S. Maries the Great, which Church he and James Columna repaired, as appears upon the great Portico, where the Image of our Saviour, the Pope, and James the Cardinal are yet to be seen. The same Pope repaired the front,

and the back-part of the Lateran, and adorn'd it with Fret-work, as the Inscription tells us. In the mean time the Kings of Aragon and Sicily con∣clude a Peace upon these terms; That King Charles should be set at Li∣berty, and settle James of Aragon in the Kingdom of Sicily at his own charge. And if he did not do so in three years time, he promised to return to Prison; giving his two Sons for Hostages; one of which was named Charles (who was afterward created King of Hungary and called Marcellus) and the other Lewis, who, when he had lived a good life in the Order of S. Francis, was canoniz'd for a Saint. Whilst these things were transacted in Europe, the Great Turk made use of that occasion, and whilst the Christians quarrell'd among themselves thought himself secure. Wherefore he goes with fire and sword, and razes Tripoli a fa∣mous City in Asia, killing all the Christians that were there in Garison. Said, and Baru••i suffer'd the like Calamity, having no body to assist 'em. Aca, of old called Ptolema••s, stood, because they made a truce with the Sultan for two years. And to defend it for time to come, Nicolas the Pope did all he could to get Soldiers under Christ's Banner, and paid them with his own money. They were about one thousand five hun∣dred: but there were a great many more that follow'd 'em, without being inrolled, without Colours, or any body to conduct 'em. Who when they were come to Aca, they did the Christians as much hurt as they did the Saracens, But the Sultan demanded what was his due, as he pretended, which when the Christians refused to restore, he threa∣ten'd utter ruin to 'em all. Then there arose a great question among the Christians, who should have possession of Aca; for the Patriarch of Con∣stantinople, the Templars of Germany, the King of Cyprus, and Charles King of Sicily did all lay claim to it. Those also of Pisa had a mind to demand Aca and lawfully (as they said themselves) but that a War which brake out in Tuscany diverted them from such an ill design. For they starv'd Earl Ʋgulinus in Prison, where they kept him, his two Sons and two Nieces; and after that, did so far animate the Gibellins against the Guelphs, that they threaten'd equal destruction to 'em all. They fell first upon those of Arezzo, because the banish'd Gibellins desir'd it; when William Petramala was Bishop of that place, who was aided by Earl Feltri the Florentine. But the Florentines did not think them∣selves strong enough, and therefore they sent Charles the Second also thither with some forces, as he was going through their Country to wait upon the Pope. Their Camps were pitched near one another in the Country of Tipherno, by which name they now call the City, having al∣ter'd the name of the Castle. Immediately as the Battel was just begun there were a great many Florentines kill'd; but not long after the case was alter'd, and, though William the Bishop, and Earl Feltri were slain, yet there fell of the Gibellini three thousand, and two thousand were ta∣ken. The Neighbours call the place where they fought, Campaldino. Charles having obtain'd so great a Victory goes straight to Nicolas, and gets the favour to hold of him in Fee the Crown of both the Sicilies. Which when James of Aragon understood, he presently goes and attaques Cajetta. But lest any thing should be wanting that might disturb the quiet of Christendom, a fatal War broke out between Philip of France and Edward King of England, which did not onely trouble the Christi∣ans in Asia very much, but also gave our Enemies great confidence and

hopes that they should totally obliterate the Christian Name throughout all Asia. For the Sultan, who at that time was sick, had sent an hun∣dred and fifty thousand men to Acra under the Command of his Son. But the Siege continuing for two months, the Father died in that time, and the Son succeeded him; who attaqued the Town with much greater re∣solution. For he filled the Trenches, and promised all the plunder to the Soldiers. But when he had fought his way to the very Walls, he was beaten back by the Christians, (who made a Sally upon him) even to his Camp, and had a great many of his men hurt in the Action. Whilst they were thus employ'd in Asia, Nicolas, the Pope, sends two Legats à Latere (as they call'em) i. e. Benedictus Cajetanus, and Gerard of Parma with all speed into France, to make a Peace between the two Kings and animate 'em against the Saracens who then besieged Acra. For he had made a Peace between James of Aragon, and Charles who was a Captive, upon those Conditions, that I told you before, that they might all be the more free to go against the common Enemy. Nay he had begun to provide a Navy, as thinking himself almost sure of a Peace; but to no purpose. For the Kings did not obey him, when he gave 'em good advice, nor did they that were in Garison at Ptolemais agree so well among themselves, as to keep out the Enemy according to their power. For having daily lost a great many of their men, there were at that time but twelve thousand left; who afterward made their escape in a Corsaire (or a swift sailing Frigot kept for that purpose) along with the Patriarch of Jerusalem. And though at first they had good ship∣ping, yet at last they were Shipwreck'd near Cyprus. But the Sultan enter'd the City when the Inhabitants had left it, and destroy'd it im∣mediately with fire and sword in the 196th year after Godfry had taken it. But amidst so many Calamities, the Island of Cyprus, and Armenia the less, formerly called Cilicia, continued Christian. At that time Ni∣colas was very urgent with Rodulphus the Emperor to send his Army into Asia, for fear the Enemy should get the remaining part of it. But Rodulphus soon after died, and Adolphus Hasso was chosen to be his Suc∣cessor; who, demanding the Rights of the Empire, was kill'd in a fight at Spire by Albertus Son to Rodulphus. He was indeed a brave Man, but had neither men nor money enough: and that was the reason that they said, he was rather overpower'd by multitude, than fairly Con∣quer'd. But Nicolas, the Pope, through discontent (as some suppose) to see all things go cross to his expectation, and being conscious that he had favour'd Parties more than became a Pope, died at Rome in the fourth year, first month, and eighth day of his Pontificate near S. Ma∣ries the Great; and is there buried, at the upper end of the Church, by Cardinal Columna, as you may see upon the Pavement, where his Pi∣cture is in Porphyry. But after his death the Cardinals went to Pe∣rugia, that they might choose a Pope with greater freedom, but pro∣tracted the business by quarrels among themselves two years and three months. In the mean while Michael Palaeologus, Emperor of Constan∣tinople dies: but the Priests and the Monks would not suffer his body to be buried in an holy place, because he joyned with the Western Church in the Council of Lions. And indeed Andronicus, Michael's Son, would have declared himself of the same opinion as the Latins, if he had been assisted by our Party. But when the Sea was vacant, An∣dronicus

was destitute of Friends, and so at last apostarized from the faith. But Charles the Second, King of Naples, seeing what would come of it, made a journey from Narbonne to Perugia, and exhorted the Cardinals several times to agree, and perfect their Election. And would have con∣tinu'd his importunity, had he not been severely rebuked by Benedict Cajetan, of Anagni; who told him that he was too urgent, and there∣by seemed to lay a kind of restraint upon the Cardinals, whose Votes ought to be free▪

CAELESTIN V.

CAELESTIN the fifth, formerly called Petrus Moroneus, by profession an Anchorite, of Sergna, who dwelt in an Abby two miles from Sulmona, was made Pope at the re∣quest of King Charles, and Cardinal Latinus. A thing, which all people wondred at so much the more, because his holy retirement had voluntarily removed him out of the prospect of any such Grandeur. After his Creation he went to Aquila, and thither he summon'd all the Cardinals to him from Perugia. But they were very importunate with him both by Letters and Messengers, that he would come to Perugia, which was a City more agreeable to the Dignity of a Pope. Notwith∣standing Caelestin's Will was at last obey'd, who would needs have it so, because he understood that King Charles was of the same mind. Thereupon they went all thither, and paid such homage to Caelestin as became a Pope. Now Ptolomy says, there were two hundred thou∣sand men at his Coronation; and that he himself was there too. I suppose the people were taken with the newness of the thing, and the holiness of the Person: that a man, that was an Eremite should come to such Honour (as if he had been preferr'd by Heaven it self) after so long a Contest between the Electors. As soon as he enter'd upon the Popedom, he made twelve Cardinals; men of the greatest integrity, of whom two were Eremites. But because he did not alter his former way of living and take upon him the Grandeur of a Pope, he was so kind, and accessible to all that made suit to him, as that he granted the same things to several persons; which brought not onely a Contempt upon his Dignity, but was a lessening to the Majesty of a Pope: For indeed he was unfit for publick business by reason of the obscure life, which he had led in the Wilderness. Hereupon they talk'd of deposing him; especially after the death of Latinus the Cardinal, a good man, by whose assistance Caelestin had hitherto made shift to support himself under so vast a burthen. But some of the Cardinals being very instant, especially Benedict Cajetan (a cunning man, and well skill'd in the Civil and Canon Law) who was a great favourite of the Popes, that he would remove himself from the Pontificate, lest the Church of God should be endanger'd by the unskil∣fulness of its Governour, he began to think of laying down his Papal Office. But King Charles was so much concern'd at his levity and su∣perstition, that he takes the good man to Naples, and endeavours to convert him from such base thoughts; whilst the people cry'd out in all

places, that they would have no other Pope, but Caelestin, and heartily beseech'd his Holiness that so it might be. To whom the Pope made answer, That he would do nothing but what God would have him do, and what he thought might be for the good of Christendom. At that the Cardinals that desired he would leave the Papacy were very urgent with him to do it as soon as he could; telling him the danger all Chri∣stendom was in by his ignorance, and that all the mischiefs that then befell the Church would be put to his Account at Dooms-day. The holy, simple Man was moved with what they said, and told 'em he would do as they'd have him, if it might lawfully be done. Where∣upon there was an Order made by unanimous consent, that the Pope should have liberty to depose himself. Which Constitution Boniface the eighth his Successor afterward confirm'd, as appears in the sixth Book of the Decretals. Then Caelestin return'd to his private life again, and gave the Cardinals power to put another Pope in his place, in the sixth month of his Pontificate. And Benedict Cajetan by that means, having most Votes, was chosen Pope; who seised upon Caelestin by the way as he was going into his Hermitage, committing him to the custody of the Governor of a certain Castle, called Fumo, in Campagna di Roma. For which he said his reason was, lest the Authors of Sedition should one time or other bring some calamity upon the Church of God under his conduct; although he really admired the Sanctity of the Man. How∣ever, this is certain that Boniface was very ungrateful, as well as subtil, first, to chouse a good man out of his Dignity, to satisfie his own am∣bition, and then to take him (when he would have retired again to his solitude) and keep him in Prison, till he dy'd for very grief, before his time, in seventeen months after he first came to the Pontificate. There are some that say, this Caelestin was so famous for Miracles after his death, that there were frequent Discourses in Councils about his Ca∣nonization; and that many people worship'd him as a Saint, and put him in the Catalogue of Confessors. His Anniversary is kept every year on the 17th of July (which was the Day of his death) by an Or∣der of Clement the fifth made at Avignon.

BONIFACE VIII.

BONIFACE the eighth, born at Anagni in Campagna di Roma, formerly called Benedict Cajetan, was made Pope at Naples, upon Christmas Eve in the year 1294. He was a man of great Learning and Experience: as having lived long in Publick, and risen to the Popedom by all the degrees of Honour, though not without some imputation of Pride and Ambition. For whilst he was Cardinal-Priest of S. Martins in the Mount, he was so de∣sirous of the Papal Dignity, that he omitted no fraudulent or other in∣direct means, that might in his opinion conduce to his obtaining of it. Besides, he was a man of that arrogance that he contemn'd every body, and recalled some Indulgences granted by Nicolas the fourth and Caele∣stin the fifth. He also persecuted the Gibellines extreamly: from whence arose that quarrel between the Pope and the Gibellines of Columna, who

also maintained their party against the Pope at Anagni. Thereupon he began to calumniate, and traduce them in general; but especially two Cardinals, Peter and James, two famous Men of the same Family; that upon the death of several Popes, they had wasted the Churches Treasure, and spread abroad scandalous Pamphlets against his own Person. For after he had done 'em Injury, they did indeed write to several Kings, Princes and States concerning Boniface's Arrogance and Ambition: how he had possessed himself of the Papal Sea against all right and reason, after he cheated Caelestin out of it, and then put him in Prison. For there are some that write, how Boniface sent some cunning Rogues pri∣vately in the Night-time, to speak in a strange Tone through Caelestins Chamber-Wall, and tell the poor, simple man (as it were by a Voice from Heaven) that he must lay down the Popedom if he would be sa∣ved. The Cardinals were cited but did not appear, because they fear'd Boniface's severity and resolution. Wherefore they retired to Nepi, with all the Family of the Columneses; and being declared Schismaticks by a publick Decree, they had their Benefices, Dignities, Estates, Castles, and Towns taken from them. Which Deprivation Boniface afterward reduced into the form of a Decree, as appears in the Book called Sex∣tus. After that Boniface raised a great many Men and Arms, to quell them, and besieged Palestrina, where they were ingarison'd with one Sarra a famous Man, who was their Uncle. And when they got away from thence, after he took and plunder'd the Town, he pursu'd 'em to Zagalora, and Columna: from whence also they were forced to fly not long after by reason of the multitude of their Enemies, by whom these Castles likewise were destroy'd, but especially that of Columna, which was their native Country. But the Cardinals got away from thence too, and went to Rieti; though Sarra staid a long time in the Woods at Antium, for fear of Boniface's cruelty. But falling into the hands of certain Pirates, he was put to the Oar, and by that means suffer'd a great deal of misery: though he was more willing to endure banish∣ment and hardship in that manner, than to feel Boniface's Tyranny, who hated the whole Race of the Gibellines. 'Tis well known what he said to Prochetus, Arch-bishop of Genoa, when he came and laid himself at his feet upon an Ash-Wednesday; For whereas the Priest uses to say, Remember, man, that thou art Ashes and into Ashes shalt thou return; he alter'd some of the words and said, Remember, man, that thou art a Gibellin, and with the rest of the Gibellines into Ashes shalt thou re∣turn: and, with that, he threw some Ashes into his Eyes, not upon his head, as the custom is. Nay, he deprived him of his Arch-Bishoprick, for the very name of the Gibellines; though he restored him afterward, when he understood that the Cardinals of Columna, did not go to Genoa, as he supposed they had done. The Columneses being banish'd in this sort, Boniface appointed a double Anniversary, one in honour of the Apostles and Evangelists, and another in honour of those four Do∣ctors of the Church, Gregory, Austin, Jerome, and Ambrose. He like∣wise canonized Lewis (one of the King of France's Family, Son to Charles the Second, who, some say, was profess'd of the Order of S. Francis,) whilst he was at Civita Vecchia. After that he turn'd out the Secular Canons from the Cathedral of Alby, and put Regulars in their room, at the request of Bernard Castanetus, Bishop of the Place. He also put

forth a sixth Volume, or Code of the Pontificial or Canon Law, which was compiled by three very learned Men (according to his Order) with the addition of some new Decrees of his own. The City of Gubio, which by the instigation of the Gibellines had revolted from the Church, he in a short time recover'd. He denied Albertus Duke of Austria to confirm him in the Empire, though he petitioned for it several times. But when James of Aragon was dead, and Robert, Son of Charles, and Duke of Calabria or Terra d' Otranto was gone over into Sicily, and had taken Catina, there brake out such a War of a sudden, that almost all Italy was in an Uproar. For the Sicilians who favour'd the Arago∣neses, got a Navy together, and not onely conquer'd Philip, Robert's Brother, but took him and put him in Prison. Whereupon Robert left Catina, and return'd into Italy without accomplishing his Designs. But Frederick of Aragon coming out of Spain with an Army into Sicily, did not onely recover all Sicily, but Terra d' Otranto too. In Tuscany, those of Genoa did burn with so much hatred against the Inhabitants of Pisa, that they not only took Leghorn and burnt it, but they sunk Merchants Ships in the mouth of the River, to hinder the men of Pisa from sailing out. These things were carry'd on in Italy, to the no small detriment of the Country; whilst the Pope sate still, nor would interpose his Au∣thority to make Peace in any place. And lest you should think Heaven was at peace with Mankind, there was of a sudden such an Earthquake, as never was known before, which lasted at several places a great many Days, and threw down many Houses. The Pope was then, with all the whole Court, at Rieti: and fearing lest he should be knock'd on the head with the fall of Houses, he caused a little Hutt to be built of small planks, in a wide Field which was in the Cloyster of the Friers Preach∣ers; and there he kept for some time, though it were bitter cold Wea∣ther. For this Commotion began upon St. Andrews day. There ap∣peared also at that time a Comet, which was a sign of some great Cala∣mity to come. But Boniface after so many and such continu'd Earth∣quakes came to himself, and made several Cardinals, of which number were the Arch-bishop of Toledo, Richard of Siena▪ Nicolas of Treviso, Master of the Order of Preachers, John Murro, General of the Minors, and one Peter, a Spaniard. He also kept a Jubilee in the year 1300. and gave a full pardon of all their sins to those that had visited the Apostles Tombs, after the manner that is prescribed in the Old Testa∣ment; though the Jews at first had quite another sentiment of this Af∣fair. For they kept a Jubilee every fiftieth Year, wherein Debtors were released from their Creditors, as Josephus says, and Servants, or Slaves challenged their freedom. From whence the Jubilee imports li∣berty both in mind and body. For they are truly said to be free, whose sins are forgiven. He commanded it to be kept every hundredth year. For this reason, that year, there came such a multitude of people to Rome from all parts, that you could hardly stir in the streets, though they are very large and spatious, it was so throng'd. There came to Rome at that time Charles Earl of Valois, Brother to Philip of France, who married the Daughter of Balwin late Emperor of Constantinople, and got leave of Boniface, that his Father-in-law might endeavour to recover the Empire, of which by force he had been deprived. Boniface was wil∣ling to gratifie him, because he intended to make use of their assistance

toward sending an Army into Asia, to recover Jerusalem. But whilst things were coming to a settlement, he made Charles sole Governour of Peter's Patrimony, and sent a Legat into Tuscany, to appease the new broils there. For instead of Gibellins and Guelphs they were called Whites, and Blacks. But the Legat could do no good though he threa∣ten'd to interdict them; nor could Charles of Valois who came thither by the Pope's Order, restrain the Florentines so much, but that they did drive the Albi, or Whites, out of their City and kill a great many of 'em besides. For, at that time, the Gibellines were called, the Whites. But the Pope having long premeditated of his Expedition to Jerusalem, he sends the Bishop of Apamea to Philip King of France, to exhort him into the same Design. He went; but when he came thither and could do no good by fair words, he was fain to make use of Menaces. At which Philip was very angry and threw him into Prison. Which when the Pope understood, he sent the Arch-Deacon of Narbonne, an excellent person, thither immediately, to command Philip in his name, to set the Bishop of Apamea at Liberty. If he would not do it, he bid him declare publickly, that the Kingdom of France was fallen to the Church by Philips contumacy, and forasmuch as he had broken the Law of Na∣tions: and order'd him farther, to lay a Curse upon him, and absolve all the French from their Allegiance. The Arch-Deacon did all this very chearfully, and compelled the King to dismiss the Bishop. But the King, having a mind to take some part of a Revenge for the injuries offer'd to him by the Pope, set forth an Edict, that no man should go out of his Kingdom to Rome, or send money thither. The second year after the Jubilee Charles of Valois went to Charles the Second his Cousin. At whose coming Frederick of Aragon was concern'd, and desired a Peace, which he obtained upon condition, that he, restoring what he had taken in Italy, should keep Sicily as long as he lived. But when Charles of Valois went out of Tuscany, the Whites, who were driven out of Florence went in great numbers to Forli: among whom there was one Dantes Aldegerius, a very learned Man, and an excellent Poet in his Mother-Tongue: this Person endeavoured to return into his own Country several times, but in vain; although he were assisted by the Bolognians, and Canegrandis Governour of Verona, with whom he lived afterward for some time in all the freedom of conversation. There are some Authors that tell us, how Boniface about this time caused the body of one Hermanius, that had been worship'd in Ferrara as a Saint for twenty years, to be taken out of the ground, and burnt, because he had made a strict inquiry into his Heretical Opinions. I suppose he was one of the Fratricelli, or Holy-Brotherhood, whose Sect at that time was very numerous. In the mean time Philip King of France, ta∣king Boniface's Arrogance very ill, called an Assembly at Paris of the Clergy and Nobility: and recounting the injuries that Boniface had done to him, his Ambition, and Cheats which he had used to get the Pope∣dom, which he was unjustly possessed of, he appealed to the Sea Apo∣stolick, which, he said, was then vacant, and to the next Council. At which Boniface, being startled, called a General Council, wherein he de∣clared Philip and his Kingdom subject to Albert the Emperor, whom in the beginning of his Pontificate he had repulsed. Then Philip, thinking to tame his pride, sent Sarra of Columna (who was known and redeemed

from the Pirates, at Marseilles) with Nogaretius a French Cavalier, and a trusty Soul, to Rome, for no other end (as he declared himself) but to publish his Appeal. But he had a quite different Design. For Sarra, putting on the disguise of a Slave, went into Campagna di Roma; where gathering to him as many friends as he could, he sent Nogaretius with two hundred French Horse, which he had listed out of Charles of Va∣lois's Army, before to Ferentino; to assist him, if need were. But him∣self went into Anagni privately, in the Night, and by the assistance of the Gibellines, whom Boniface had teazed extreamly for a long time, he broke the Door open, and took the Pope by surprise in the House where he was born, and so brought him to Rome, where thirty five days after he died for grief, in the eighth year, ninth month and seventeenth day of his Pontificate. He was buried in S. Peter's, in a Tomb that he built himself before he died; which is yet to be seen in a Chappel which he made of Fret-work. He likewise built the Pulpit and the Portico in the Lateran, where Curses are pronounced upon the Sacrament; and where he laid that Curse upon Philip King of France, and the Columne∣ses. Thus died Boniface, who made it his business rather to infuse ter∣rour than Religion into Emperors, Kings, Princes, Nations, and States; and would pretend to give and take away Kingdoms, to banish and to recall men, as he thought fitting, to satisfie his pride and covetousness, which was unspeakable. Therefore let other Princes as well Religious, as Secular, learn by his Example to govern the Clergy and the Laity, not proudly and disdainfully, as this party of whom we speak, but holyly and modestly, as Christ our King, and his Disciples, and true Followers. And let 'em desire rather to be beloved than feared; which is usually the just bane of Tyrants. Some say he cherish'd the Feuds among the Italians, especially between the Genoeses and the Venetians, who were two States, very powerful at Sea.

BENEDICT XI.

BENEDICT the eleventh, an Italian, of Treviso, former∣ly call'd Nicolas, Cardinal of Ostia, was made Pope the first of November at Rome. For he enter'd himself into the Order of Preachers, when he was but young; and so far prevailed upon the Fraternity both by his Virtue and Learning, that they preferr'd him gradually through all Offices till he was made General. From which Station he was chosen Pope, and in that place also gave great de∣monstration of his Virtue. For he lived after such a manner, that he may well be reckon'd among the number of those that are in Bliss. But as soon as he got into the Apostolical Chair, he cites Nogaretius, and Sarra and all those of Anagni that conspired to take Boniface, to come before him; but they not appearing, he laid an heavy Curse up∣on them. He likewise heard King Philip's cause, and absolv'd him from Boniface's Censures. And after that, he receiv'd John and James, the two Cardinals of Columna, into favour; whom Boniface persecuted, for being of the Guelphian Faction, more than became a Pope to do. Nay he gave

'em their goods again, onely he enjoyn'd 'em to let the Red Hat, that Boniface had taken from 'em, lie by for some short time. Having setled the Affairs of the City in this manner, and made some Cardinals (of whom Nicolas a Pratese of the Order of Preachers was one) he immediately applies himself to procure a general Peace in Italy. And because there were greater tumults in Tuscany than any where else, he sent Nicolas Bi∣shop of Ostia thither with full Commission; who made new Officers in Florence, and put 'em into the House, which they had built for the re∣ception of Magistrates, now called the Palais of their Lords. But at that time Nicolas thought he might do more than so, and therefore spoke about recalling the persons that were banish'd: Which Proposal not taking effect as he would have had it, he declared a Curse upon them, and went to Prato. But not long after, Benedict dying, Tuscany was again in an uproar, for the banish'd of all places met near Bologna, resolving immediately to enter Florence, and thereupon in the Night getting over the Walls which were not then finish'd, near the Gate, that leads to Bologna, they advanced as far as the Church of S. Sepa∣rata, that was begun to be built a little before. But whilst they look'd too eagerly after the plunder, and consulted their friends what they had best to do, they gave their Enemies time to take courage, and raise Arms; insomuch that they quickly drave 'em out, and killed a great many of their men. Then they got Robert Duke of Calabria to be their General, and were grown confident they had strength enough not onely to defend their own but to attaque their Neighbours too. Hereupon they besiege Pistoia, which those within it did so bravely defend, that with one Sally they beat Robert and all his Army back to Prato. Be∣nedict, who was a very good and holy Man, resolv'd, when he had quieted Italy, to assist against the Tartars, who were fallen into Syria and Palestine, having been sollicited to it by frequent Messages. But dying at Perugia (where he and all the Court were) in the eighth month and seventeenth day of his Pontificate, he missed his Design. He was buried with due pomp, in the Church of the Freres Preachers the fifth of June in the year 1303. Now the Miracles which he did after his death shew him to have been an excellent, holy Man; for he cured the sick, and cast out Devils. The Sea was then vacant from the fifth of June to the seventh of July, in the year ensuing; although the Car∣dinals that were kept in the Conclave for that purpose, were impor∣tun'd and sometimes threaten'd to make choice of a Pope.

CLEMENT V.

CLEMENT the fifth, a Gascon, Bishop of Bourdeaux, for∣merly called Bertrandus Gottho, was made Pope in his ab∣sence at Perugia, though the College of Cardinals had a long debate about the Election. But he approving of their choice, went from Bourdeaux to Lyons, and called all the Cardinals thither to him: who obey'd him without any scruple; so that the Court of Rome was translated into France in the year 1305. And there it remained

for seventy four years to the great damage of all Christendom, but e∣specially of Rome; where the Churches, great part of 'em, fell to ruin for want of use; whilst they were absent, that ought to have taken care to repair 'em. There were present at the Coronation of this Pope, Phi∣lip King of France, and his Brother Charles lately return'd from Italy, John Duke of Britaigne, who, together with some others, was kill'd by a Wall, that fell upon him, whilst the Coronation pomp was going, as is usual, through the City. Philip also was a little hurt by the same acci∣dent. But the Pope though he was in such a consternation that he fell from his Horse, yet he lost nothing but one Carbuncle out of his Crown, that some say was valued at 6000l. When the Solemnity was over, and all things in order, Clement made a great many French Cardi∣nals, but none out of Italy, though indeed he did restore John and James of Columna to their entire Dignity of Cardinalate, which they formerly enjoy'd. Besides that he sent three Cardinals to Rome, with the chara∣cter of Senators; to govern not onely the City, but all Italy by their Conduct. But when he saw the Genoeses and those of Pisa involv'd in a bloody War one against the other, and that Sardinia in the mean time was taken by the Saracens, he gave that Island to Frederick King of Si∣cily upon condition that he should beat out the Enemy and recover it as soon as possible: the Venetians making a League with Charles the Se∣cond against the Emperor of Constantinople, induced King Rassianus, to come and desire of the Pope to be instructed in the Orthodox Faith, in the year 1307. But the Venetians and Charles falling out again, they alter'd Rassianus's mind by their ill example. In the mean time a new Heresie was broached at Novara by Dulcinus and Margaret, which al∣lowed Men and Women who lived together, freely to exercise all acts of uncleanness: and the professors of it were called, the Brotherhood. Clement endeavour'd to suppress them, and immediately sent thither a party of Soldiers, with a Legat Apostolical; who partly with cold and hunger, partly with force of Arms routed 'em from the Alps, where they harbour'd. But Dulcinus and Margaret were taken alive, torn in pieces, and their bones burnt and scattered into the Air. About that time Intelligence was brought, that the Templers, who were formerly Christ's Soldiers, had revolted to the Saracens. For this reason all of 'em that could be apprehended were kill'd, and their goods given part∣ly to the Rhodian Knights who had possess'd themselves of that Island a little before, and partly to Religious uses. Philip also, King of France turn'd all the Jews out of his Territories, confiscating their goods for their Rogueries and their covetousness. Not long after, Albert the Empe∣ror being kill'd by his Nephew John, almost all the Cities of Lombardy, chose their Captains or Governors to be their Sovereign Lords; as at Ve∣rona, the Scaligeri, at Mantua, the Bonacossi, at Padua, the Carraresi. The House of Este had been Masters of Ferrara a long time before, but now they reduced Modena also. Nor did Charles the Second King of Naples, think it below him to marry his Daughter Beatrice to Azo, Marquis d' Este. But Friscus his Son, seeing he had gotten a Step-mother, put his Father in Prison and there murther'd him: and then possessed himself of Ferrara, by the assistance of the Venetians who lent him aid to storm a Castle, called Thedaldo. Then the Cardinal Pelagura was sent to Bo∣logna from Clement, to forbid the Venetians from medling with Ferrara

under the pain of a Curse; those of Ferrara desiring to be under the Church. Wherefore the Venetians, thinking it their best way to make haste, attaqued the Castle Night and Day till at last they took it. Which when they had done, Friscus himself, greedy of Revenge, set fire on half Ferrara, especially their Houses, who seemed to desire a Change. The Citizens now not able to endure so great an injury any longer, taking up Arms, turn'd Friscus out of his usurp'd Sovereignty and surrender'd themselves to the Venetians, who in all probability might be able to defend them. At which Pelagura was very much in∣censed, and muster'd up all the Church forces immediately against the Venetians and those of Ferrara. But Clement, understanding how obsti∣nate, and how desirous of Dominion the Venetians were, laid a Curse upon them with an Interdiction: commanding all persons, wherever, to look upon them as no better than Slaves, and to take away whatever they had from them, by which that trading Nation, suffer'd great damage both in England and France. After this the Pope sent other Cardinals into Tuscany, which was all one Scene of War, to command Robert Duke of Calabria, the Florentines, and the other people of that Province, to break up their Siege of Pistoia. They all obey'd him, save onely the Flo∣rentines and those of Lucca; so that he interdicted those two States. But Robert went away for Avignion to complement the Pope, and then the Pistoieses, tired out by this long Siege; at length concluded upon a Surrender. The Florentines and those of Lucca pulled down the Walls of the City as soon as they had taken it, and filling up the Trenches, di∣vided the Country among them, leaving to the Citizens their lives onely, the City it self remaining equally subject to both. But it was not long before the Florentines made themselves sole Masters of it, by Wal∣ling it round within the Trenches, contrary to the Articles agreed up∣on by them and those of Lucca. And that they might make all things the more secure, they bought Aciano a Castle belonging to the Ʋbaldi∣ni, which they pulled down: and in the Plain not far distant, they built Scarparia, as some few years before they had done Castel-Franco and S. Johns in the Valley of Arno. Cardinal Ʋrsin was now sent into Tuscany, to compose the differences; whom the Florentines and those of Lucca contemned, and thereby put him into such a passion, that he pub∣lickly reiterated his Curses and his Interdiction. For that reason the Florentines revenged themselves upon the Clergy by exactions very long and very much. Nay farther, they used such severity upon this occasion, that they put Cursio Donato (an eminent Citizen and one that had deserved well of the Publick) to death, for marrying Ʋgutio Fa∣giolanis Daughter; such Enemies they were to all Nobility. But af∣terward they were receiv'd into the Popes favour for assisting Pelagura, the Legat, in the recovery of Ferrara, and the Castle of Thedaldo which was in possession of the Venetians, in the year 1309. Charles the Se∣cond of Naples dying the same year, his Son Robert was sent by the Pope to be his Successor; but he went to Bologna to Pelagura, who pre∣sently in the name of the Church made him Governour of Ferrara while it was yet in Arms. But he was to go on toward Naples, and so left Dego Catelano, an eminent Person, with a Troop of Horse in the Garison. This Dego seeing he could not contein the People of Ferrara within their Duty by fair or foul words, sent his Horse down upon

them from the Castle, and kill'd a great many of them, hanging up eight and twenty of the House of Este, who aspir'd to the Dominion. At that time Henry of Lucenburgh was chosen Emperor by the Germans, and confirm'd by the Pope upon condition, that he should come into Italy within two years and receive his Crown at Rome. This the Pope did to the end that the commotions in Italy would be suppress'd by the arrival of the Emperor. Who promised to perform what the Pope had injoyn'd him, and immediately sent Agents into Italy to all the States and Princes there; but chiefly to the Florentines, who at that time harass'd them of Arezzo. The Florentines made answer, That so great a Prince as he was did not do prudently, in endeavouring to bring Foreiners into Italy, which was a Country that, as Emperor, he ought to defend from such with his utmost power. And that he did not do well to protect them of Arezzo, who, he knew had banish'd the Guelphs, their fellow Citizens: whereas it was the Emperors prerogative alone to banish or to recall from Exile. They say that Dantes then told the Flo∣rentines, They were blind, for making such a foolish answer to the Em∣peror, than which nothing could be more to the disadvantage of their State, especially when so great and Warlike a Prince with so great an Army approached them. But indeed they were encouraged by the pro∣mises of King Robert, who as he went into his Kingdom, gave them as∣surance that he would always be a Patron to the Guelphin Faction. The Emperor was now advanc'd as far as Piedmont, where in the Plains all the Princes, or Governors of Cities came to meet him. There were at that time two principal Factions in Millain, the Turriani, and the Vi∣conti. Guido Turriano was Head of the Guelphs, as being Captain of the people (to use their own word) and Maffeo Viconti of the Gibellins. And Guido fearing lest the Viconti should get into Henry's favour before him upon the account of their Faction, he raised an Army and encamp∣ed in the Country of Millain, to see, as he himself said, who durst come into that City without his leave. When at the same time Maffeo sent Agents to the Emperor to invite him to Millain, which was a City, he told him, that was the very Mansion-house of the Roman Empire. There∣upon Henry drew his Forces near to the City, and made a great bustle, though Guido was got in before him. But he allay'd all Tumults by a composition which he made upon these Terms; That Guido should have Marcelli, and Maffeo be Captain General of his Horse. And thus the Emperor having gotten possession of Millain, almost all the adja∣cent Cities surrendred presently, except Alessandria. Then he received the Iron Crown at Millain, according to custom, but put the Citizens to so much expence, that the Commonalty finding themselves rather op∣pressed than vested with the Liberty they expected, betook themselves to their Arms: The Germans seeing their men kill'd by both Factions, went out of the Suburbs into the City, and called the Heads of the Parties to 'em. But Galeatius, Son to Maffeo Viconti, left his Father at home and went with a considerable number of Suppliants to wait upon the Emperor and told him, That the Turriani, affecting Sovereignty, had made that uproar in the City. Whereupon the Germans joyning the Gibellin Faction, drave the Turriani, (after some small resistance at S. Martes New-street) out of the City: from whence they fled in great numbers to Vercelli by the persuasion of Guido. Thirty of this Faction

being kill'd, of which four were Turriano's. After this Henry moved toward Cremona and Crema, and called the Guelphs before him there, who had turn'd out the Gibellins, but he dealt mildly with the Cremo∣neses, because they rendered themselves so freely, though he was a little severer upon the Cremeses, and demolish'd their Walls. Which strook such terror into those of Parma (who by the persuasion of one Gil∣bert Correggio had received the Rossi into their Town) that immediately they drove out the Guelphs and took in the Emperors Lieutenant. Those of Brescia defended themselves for some time: but being smartly at∣taqued by Henry, they fled in the Night to the Mountains, and left the City quite empty. The Germans enter'd it presently, and pulled down the Walls. At which Calamities of their Neighbours, the people of Mantua, Verona, Vicenza, Padua, Treviso, and Venice were so affright∣ed, that they immediately submitted to the Emperors Orders. Those also of Piacenza turn'd out Albertus Scotus, Captain of the Guelphs, and took in the Emperors Governour. Having setled Affairs after this manner in Lombardy, the Emperor went through Piacenza to Genoa, a∣long with Amadeus of Savoy, attended by the Agents from Pisa and Genoa. Thither came Embassadors from Robert of Naples and Fre∣derick King of Sicily, not long after; the former to make a shew of friendship, and the latter to assure him of the real love which they had for him. For Robert had sent his Mareschal into Tuscany with two thou∣sand Horse, to assist the Floretines and those of Lucca, if need were, a∣gainst the Emperor. But Henry went by Sea to Pisa, and having sent his Land-forces before him, did the men of Lucca a great deal of damage. Hitherto I thought fit to relate all the inconveniences which were brought upon the Italians, which some impute wholly to Clement, who solicited Henry to come with an Army into Italy: Whilst others tell us, that Clement did it for the advantage of the Country, because of the civil Discords among 'em, which were the cause of much blood-shed in every City, nay in every little Castle. The Citizens were slain, old men murther'd, young Children dash'd against the ground, with a boundless cruelty. Whereupon Clement used that saying of Homer, Let there be but one chief Lord, one Judg of all matters. Henry went on toward Rome, and sent Lewis of Savoy, Son to Amadeus, with five hundred Horse before, who taking up his quarters at one Stephen Columna's House, near the Lateran, put the Ʋrsin Faction in a terrible fear. But Henry came first to Viterbo and thence to Rome, where he was very kindly recei∣ved not onely by all the Nobility, but by the Citizens in general. Af∣ter that being Crown'd by three Cardinals, he made the Romans swear Allegiance to him, as the custom is, and made a great Feast, to which he invited all the Noblemen of the City, except the Ʋrsins. But lest in such a concourse of people, there should arise any tumult through the animosities of some men, he planted his Soldiers in the Theatres, Baths and other fortified places; in the strength of which Guards he was so confident, that he had the courage to demand of the people a Tribute which they never used to pay. Hereupon all the Citizens of both Fa∣ctions fled to the Ʋrsins, who had set good Guards about their House, which stood near the Tiber and hard by Hadrians Bridg. At that the Emperor was so enraged, that he summoned the Sea-Archers, whom the men of Pisa had sent him, to march into the City against the Romans;

but they were surprised and soon routed by John, the Brother of King Robert, who had placed his Sea-forces under the Mount di S. Sabina. He also let in the Horse who quarter'd not far off, and by the aid of the Roman people forced the Emperour himself to retreat as far as Tivoli. After him John, Robert's Brother went away by Command from the Cardinals, and left the City quiet. But Henry going from Perugia ar∣rived at Arezzo, where he accused Robert the King of Treason; and be∣cause he did not appear upon Summons, deprived him of his Kingdom, against the mind of Clement, who thought he had done a thing of such consequence in a very improper place, besides that it was none of his Prerogative. For he said, It was Popes peculiar Province to di∣spose of the Kingdom of Sicily on both sides the Pharo. The Emperor marching from Arezzo led his Army toward Florence and Lucca, who were Allies to Robert. But seeing he was not able to storm a Town, he possess'd himself of Poggibonci; which when he had fortified, he de∣clared War against the Seneses, because they were so niggardly, and spa∣ring in supplying him with Provisions. But falling sick he went to the Bath at Macerata, from whence he came back to Bonconvento much weaker than he was before. There, after some days, he died; but it was suspected, he was poison'd by a Monk at Florence, who was in∣duced by large Rewards and Promises to give him the Eucharist dipped in Poison. The State of Pisa (now that the Emperor was dead) fear∣ed the power of the Florentines, and therefore chose Ʋgutio Fagiolano their Captain and sole Governor; who not long after reduced those of Lucca, and took away their Lands from 'em, by the assistance of the Cavalry, that had served under Henry. In the mean time Clement was very much troubled not onely at all the other evils that Italy under∣went, but that S. Constantines Church should be burnt down. Where∣fore he sent Money to the Clergy and people of Rome toward the repair of that Church, though there was such scarcity and Dearth in his Coun∣try at that time, that he could hardly buy himself Victuals and Drink. Which miseries were foretold by frequent Eclipses of the Sun, several Comets, and the Plague which was almost Epidemical. But Clement apply'd himself to settle the State of the Church, and therefore he ex∣ercised his Episcopal Function three times, not onely in making several Cardinals, who were excellent Men, but in three Councils which he cal∣led in several places and at several times he did many things with pru∣dence and deliberation. For he suppress'd Dulcinus's Sect (as I told you) that opposed the Churchmen, and took off the Templers, who were fallen into very great Errors (as, denying Christ, &c.) and gave their goods to the Knights of Jerusalem. He likewise withstood the King of France at Poictou when he made unreasonable and unhandsom Demands; for the King would have had Boniface censur'd and Nogare∣tius and Sarra absolv'd. The first request he never obtein'd, but the second he at last had granted to him, upon Nogaretius's Promise, that he would go against the Saracens for Penance. Which expedition Cle∣ment himself had a great mind to, as appears by his Councils. After∣wards he canonized Caelestin the fifth by the name of Peter the Confes∣sor, because approved by Miracles; and set forth the Clementines, which he composed during the Council at Vienna. But in succeeding time he was afflicted with divers Diseases: for he was troubled sometimes with

a Dysentery, sometimes with a pain in his Stomach, or his Sides, of which he dy'd in the eighth year, tenth month, and fifteenth day of his Pontificate. The Sea was then vacant two years, three months, and seventeen days, whilst the Cardinals were at a stand, whom they should choose. Nor was there less Discord among the Electors of the Empire, upon the Death of Henry, some proposing Lewis of Bavaria, others Frederick, Duke of Austria. And these two engaging in War one against the other, Frederick was Conquer'd: at which Lewis grew so proud, that he not onely called himself Emperor, without Authority from Rome; but favour'd the Viconti in Lombardy, so far, that they got into Millain. And this he did to make his own passage more easie toward Rome, where he was to receive a golden Crown according to the usual Custom. Then began the people of Tuscany, and all the Guelphs to tremble, when they saw Lewis Emperor, and that he was likely to recover all the rights of the Empire in a short time, by the help of the Viconti and Ʋgutio Fa∣giolani who was sole Governour of Pisa and Lucca. Wherefore they endeavour'd to bring over to their Party by Promises and Presents, Pe∣tramala, Bishop and Lord of Arezzo, and Philip of Tarento, a Prince and Brother to King Robert. For Philip at that time was very strong in Ca∣valry, and a very good Soldier.

JOHN XXIII.

JOHN the twenty third, formerly called James of Caturco, Bishop of Porto, after a long debate between twenty three Cardinals, was chosen Pope at Lyons, and the fifth of Septem∣ber received the Pontifical Crown in the Cathedral Church there. From thence he removed with the whole Court to Avignion, where he made eight Cardinals in the Ember-week before Advent: some of which were James of Caturco, his Sisters Son, and John Cajetan, Car∣dinal Deacon of S. Theodores, of the Family of the Ʋrsins. Besides that, he canoniz'd, for a Confessor, Lewis Bishop of Tholouse, Son to Charles late King of Sicily, though there are some that ascribe this Act to Bo∣niface, as I told you before. He forced Hugo Bishop of Caturco, to re∣linquish his Bishoprick and Priesthood, and stripp'd him of all his Pon∣tifical Ornaments, as, the Ring, the Mitre, the Coife, the Cap, and the Rocket. And after he had deprived, degraded, and (to use their own phrase) deliver'd him over to the secular jurisdiction, he was tortur'd to Death for conspiring against the Pope. The Church of Tholouse, which he loved entirely, he made an Arch-bishoprick; and improved six Castles that belong'd to it into so many Cities, that the Arch-bishop might have something under him which was honourable, and worth his governing. He also joyn'd Limosa, i. e. Wiselburg, and the Abby of S. Pontius to the Arch-bishoprick of Narbonne; nay so much addicted was he to Novelties, that he divided some single Bishopricks into two, and uni∣ted others that were distinct; turning Abbaties into Bishopricks and Bisho∣pricks into Abbaties. He likewise created new Dignities and new Societies in the Church; and alter'd those, which had been formerly constituted.

Yet he was so grateful, that he confirmed the Design of setting forth that Book called Clementinae, or Rules of Clement; and commanded all Doctors in publick Schools, to read it for Lectures. He reduced the Order of Gramont, which had been corrupted by some factious fellows, into a better form, by taking away such things as might be inconvenient, and adding other things that might keep up the Grandeur of Religion. He loved the Church of Saragoza so well that he made the City a Metro∣polis, and assigned it the Covernment of five Cathedrals out of eleven, which were under the Arch-bishop of Tarragona. He also created a new Order of Knights, to fight under Christ's Banner in Portugal, and oppose the Saracens in Granada and Africa. Boetica was the old name for Granada, which lies to the Mediteranean, and is so called, I sup∣pose, from the abundance it yields of a sort of Grain that Dyers use. Now the Head-quarters of this Order, which the Pope constituted, was in a Seaport Town in the Diocese of Sylva; and the Knights had all the Templers goods by consent of the King of Portugal, that they might be more at leisure to fight for Christ. Their Censor and Moderator is the Abbot of a Monastery of Cistercians at Alcoasia in the Diocese of Lis∣bon, who has the Power to list and disband a Knight as he pleases, Af∣terward he made two S. Thomases; that is to say Thomas Bishop of He∣reford, a man of a great Family, a good Life, extraordinary Learning, and famous for his Miracles; and Thomas Aquinas, a celebrated Doctor of the Order of S. Dominick, of whose Life and Writings I have former∣ly made several Remarks. Not long after, he created seven Cardinals at a second Ordination, in the year 1322: and presently thereupon he set forth an Edict, to declare all those for obstinate Hereticks, who af∣firm'd that Christ and his Disciples had nothing which they could call their own. Which certainly does not much agree with the Scripture, that tells us in many places, how Christ, his Disciples and true follow∣ers had a real propriety in nothing: as in that passage of the Gospel, where it says; He that does not sell all that he has and give to the Poor, cannot be my Disciple. Nay more than that, He accounted e∣very one an Heretick, that said the Disciples as such had not Power to sell, to give, to bequeath, and to get, because when they enter'd into Religion, they were to be under the Will of another. Which is the rea∣son that Slaves do not gain any thing for themselves but their Master, or give the Poor what they formerly got, if he command them. And of these Positions he sent Apostolical Transcripts to all publick Schools, that the Scholars might not dare to Dispute of that matter any more. Moreover he condemned the Opinion of one Frier Peter of the Order of Minors, who had animated a whole Convent of the third Order to imi∣tate Christs poverty: of which number many were condemned and burnt. After that he made ten Cardinals more; among whom he con∣sider'd John Columna and his Brother Matthew, who were of the Ʋrsin Family, and of the Order of Preachers. Whilst the Pope was imploy'd in these Affairs, the Florentine Army was overcome in a bloody fight by Ʋgutio Fagiolani, not far from the Mount Catino. But those of Lucca, not able to endure the Tyranny of Ʋgutio any longer, took an occasion and turn'd Nerius his Son out of the City, whilst he was going to pu∣nish Castruccio, a person of a Noble Family, and good courage; whom he had put in Prison, that he might get the spoils which Castruccio had taken

from the Enemies. Nerius being banish'd out of Lucca incensed his Fa∣ther against that State, upon whom those of Pisa shut their Gates, as he was going out of the City to meet the Enemy. Upon that he and his Son escaped to Malaspina, after he had often attempted, and been as often frustrated in the recovery of his Sovereignty; but by Command from the Pope he came back at last into Romagna which was his native Countrey. By this means Castruccio was promoted from extream mi∣sery to the greatest happiness: for he was taken out of Prison and made sole Governour of Lucca. But the Pope hearing that the Esteses had routed the Church Forces out of Ferrara, and gotten it totally into their own hands; and that the Viscounts, by assistance of Lewis of Bavaria, had made themselves Masters of Millain, he said, he would let the Este∣ses alone for a while; but interdicted the Viscounts, though he was not so angry with them as with Lewis, who usurped the Title of Emperor. At the same time the Gibellins of Genoa were banish'd by their Fellow-Citizens the Guelphs assisted by King Robert, to whom they had com∣mitted the Government of their City, and fled in great numbers to Sa∣vona. But there too some time after, Robert persecuted 'em every one in their Exile, and reduced the Savoneses, as he went into France.

The Pope understanding that the Guelphs were generally oppress'd af∣ter Robert's departure, sent Charles, Earl of Valois, the Son of Philip King of France into Italy, to protect the Guelphs, and those especially that were at Vercelli with the Turrianoes, who were Lords of that City. But Viscount Galeatius, by command from Lewis the Emperor, prevented Charles, and expelled the Turrianoes out of Vercelli before he came; up∣on which that City became subject to the Viscounts. Not long after Castruccio gets into Pistoia, as Guido Petramala a little before had into Ti∣pherno, though the Florentines withstood him. But Castruccio relying up∣on the aid of Viscount Galeatius (for he had sent his Son Accio with one thousand five hundred Soldiers to assist him) pursu'd and beat the Flo∣rentines back to the very Walls, killing a great many men. The Pope seeing the Bavarian resolv'd to embroil all things interdicted him with the usual Ceremonies; and degraded Guido Petramala from the Priest∣hood, after he had got possession of Tipherno. He also separated Corto∣na from the Bishoprick of Arezzo and made it a City of it self, making John of Viterbo Bishop of it. In the mean time Nicolas d' Este, Lord of Ferrara, storm'd and took Argenta, a Town belonging to the Church of Ravenna, by the assistance of Passerino Bonacossio Lord of Mantua, who a little before had married Nicolas's Sister. These two also joyn'd their Forces and attempted Bologna, but went off with great loss, being de∣feated by Beltrando who commanded the Church-forces, and not long after cursed by the Pope. Ferraria too was interdicted, till they resto∣red Argenta—. But Castruccio at that time did torment the Floren∣tines after he had taken Segna, from whence he made frequent Sallies upon them, insomuch that, despairing of their Affairs, they called in Charles, the Son of Robert to be their Covernour. At that time Pope John sent John Ʋrsin into Italy with all speed, to animate the Florentines and the Guelphs against the Bavarian, who was then coming over the Alps with a mighty Army. But he, in his way to Rome, went first to Millain, at the earnest request of the Gibellins. Where having received his Iron Crown, he wanted Money, and was forced to raise some upon

the people; which Galeatius their Governour making some scruple of, he put all the Viconti in Prison, and chose four and twenty Citizens to manage the publick Affairs, with a chief Officer of his own Family. Afterward the Bavarian, at the request of Castruccio, set all the Viconti at liberty, whilst they were at Lucca, where the Emperor was enter∣tain'd with great respect and kindness. And when he went from thence, he was attended to Rome by Castruccio with one thousand five hundred Horse: where in the Palace of S. Giovanni Laterano he was Crown'd by Stephano Columna at the command of the Clergy and People. At that time there were two chief Officers in the City, chosen out of the Nobi∣lity, which they called the Emperors Lieutenants: and one of 'em, cal∣led Nicolas di Conti being then absent, it fell to Stephano's lot to do that Office. Being Crown'd Emperor, he presently made Peter of Corbiere, of the Order of Minors, born near Rieti, Pope (to Rival John the twen∣ty third) who was a man of mean Birth, but a learned Man and very fit for business. This Person had a Wife formerly, against whose de∣sire, and inclination he enter'd into the Order of S. Francis. So being made a mock-Pope and called by the name of Nicolas the fifth, he was saluted by the Emperor and all that were there along with him, as the true Vicar of Christ; who likewise made Cardinals and Bishops of men like himself—. In the mean time the French Horse that were left in Ga∣rison at Florence, having surprised Pistoia in the Night, they forc'd Ca∣struccio to depart immediately from Rome. Who having first joyned the Viconti's forces, came to Lucca and Pisa, and thence moving toward Pi∣stoia he besieged it a long time, and at last compelled it to surrender for want of Provisions. But the Bavarian followed Castruccio with an Army, and left the Anti-Pope at Viterbo, having a Design to storm Flo∣rence. And perhaps he had taken it, if Castruccio had not happen'd to die of a Disease which he contracted by the excessive pains that he took. Yet the Bavarian forgot his great kindness to him, and banish'd his Sons from Pisa and Lucca, as they were disposing of Soldiers to guard the several Cities; and took possession of the Towns. At the same time Galeatius also dying, his Sons sled to the Bavarian, desiring him, that he would restore 'em to their Countrey for such a sum as they promised him. He thereupon, being very greedy of Money, sent Accio home, but kept his Brother, Marco for an hostage till the whole Money was paid. And then, leaving the Anti-Pope at Pisa, with Viscount Marco, he went to Millain, in order to go for Germany, but could not be recei∣ved into the City by Accio, who too well remember'd the injuries done to his Father. But the German Soldiers who kept Marco in Tuscany for an Hostage, when they knew his good temper, swore Allegiance to him, and made him of their Prisoner, their Captain, so that he was straight∣way Master of Lucca, by the surrender of Castruccio's Soldiers, who gave up the Castle into his hands. And yet not long after the Germans, in Marco's absence, changed their mind and sold the City of Lucca to a certain Genoese of the Family of Spinola, a great Seaman. So that after all, the Bavarian return'd to Germany, without having perform'd any thing to the advantage of the Empire; and Boniface Earl of Pisa, to gratifie Pope John, brought the Anti-Pope to Avignion, where he died in Prison. And now the Pope being freed of his two greatest cares; to wit, the Anti-Pope being dead, and the Bavarian gone out of Italy in∣to

to Germany, he declared an Expedition against the Saracens, and imposed new Tenths, to be paid to Philip upon the account of that Voyage. The Florentines were then in Lucca, but were driven out immediately by the Bohemians, whom the people of Brescia had invited into Italy against the Bergameses; and by whose assistance also the Popes Legat had taken Parma Rheggio, and Modena. But he, making an Alliance with John King of Bohemia, quickly changed all the Measures of the Italian Fa∣ctions. For whosoever the Pope and King of Bohemia were Confede∣rates with, Robert and the Florentines were certainly against, without any distinction of Guelphs or Gibellins. For Mastino Scala Lord of Vero∣na, Philippino Gonzaga of Mantua, the Carrarieses, Lords of Padua, the Esteses of Ferrara enter'd into Alliance and League with Robert, by whom the Florentines also were assisted, and took Pistoia, by surrender from some of the Citizens without opposition. In the mean while the Mar∣quesses of Este were not absolv'd from the Ecclesiastical Interdiction, be∣fore they were tired by the Petitions of those of Ferrara, and restored Argenta, which they were possessed of, to the Church of Ravenna. Yet still, relying upon the assistance of the Scaligeri, they attaqu'd the Castle of S. Felix in Modena; till Charles, the King of Bohemia's Son, came upon them, with Manfred, surnamed Pius, who was Lord of Carpo, and by these two Confederates, they were routed and beaten out of the Field. 'Tis certain that eight hundred of their Soldiers fell in that Bat∣tel, and many of their Nobles were taken, and among others of the great∣est note, one Nicolas d' Este, Brother to Rainaldo the Marquess. The Legat of Bologna took this occasion, and getting a considerable Army together, commanded by Galeot Malatesta of Rimini, Francisco Ordela∣po of Forli, Richard Manfred of Faenza and Hostasio Polentano of Ra∣venna (at that time Lords of their respective Cities,) he besieged Fer∣rara; which was then sharply attaqued, and the Suburbs of S. Antony taken, when Auxiliary Forces sent by Philippino Gonzaga, Mastino Scala, and Ʋbertino of Carrara encouraged the Ferrarians to sally forth; which they did with such success, that they routed the Enemy, and took most of their Captains. But the Earl of Romagna, who was taken, was chang'd for Nicolas d' Este: and the rest were sent safe home, upon condition, that they should take up Arms no more against the House of Este. Rai∣naldo d' Este proud of such a Victory, march'd into Bologna, where he spoiled all the Country round about, and had very near taken the Town. They of Bologna well hoped that the King of Bohemia would have assist∣ed the Legat: and it was reported that he was on his way thither, when on the sudden news was brought to him that Mastino Scala, had taken Brescia, and Bergamo by surrender: and that Accio Viconti was got into Pavia and storming the Castle. For this reason he desisted from any farther attempts, and leaving his Son at Parma, went himself with some Troops to Pavia: where seeing he could not take in the Forts that the Viconti had raised, he only plunder'd the Country about Millain, and went back again to Parma without effecting his Design. There he un∣derstood that Americk Son to Castruccio had gotten Lucca by means of some friends within: but that the Castle held out still, though the King, for a sum of Money surrendred that too, because he was to go shortly into Germany, being weary of the Italian Factions. For the Vi∣conti, having taken the Castle of Pavia, made excursions far and near.

Wherefore placing a German Garison in Modena, and Rheggio, and com∣mitted the care of Parma to Marsilio and Piedro Rubeo, he went into Germany, but promised to come suddenly back again with a greater Army. When the King was gone, the Bologneses, with the aid of the Florentines and the Marquess d' Este, beat out the Legat, and recover'd their Liber∣ty, killing all the Ecclesiastical forces both within and without the City. So that the Legat growing helpless, writ to Avignion in the year 1334. just when John the Pope died in the ninetieth year of his Age, and in the nineteenth year and the fourth month of his Pontificate, and left be∣hind him in the Treasury such a mass of Gold, as never any Pope did before him. He was buried in the Cathedral, in great State. Some say that Petro Mutroneo, once Pope, was canonized by John; and that Gentilis of Fuligno, and Dyno of Florence, two famous Physicians were at the same time rewarded by him with money and honour: for he was reckon'd a great Lover of learned Men.

BENEDICT XII.

BENEDICT the Twelfth, of Tholouse, a Cistercian, for∣merly call'd James, Cardinal Priest of S. Prisca, was made Pope at Avignion the sixteenth day after John's death, and presently confirm'd the Censures which John had laid upon the Bavarian, as one that usurped the Empire. By this means the Em∣pire was vacant, and every thing tended toward a War, when every one, though never such a petit Lord, endeavour'd to encroach upon his Neigh∣bour. For the Scaligeri were not content to be sole Governours of Ve∣rona, Brescia, and Bergamo, but strove to get Parma too from the Rubei. Gonzaga had a mind to get Rheggio, d' Este Modena, and the Florentines Lucca. But the Scaligeri, seeing they could not take Parma, because the Soldiers within, especially the Germans, who hated the Scaligeri, de∣fended it so briskly, they march'd toward Vincenza. But they could do no good upon it; and therefore hearing that the Germans were gone from Parma, they return'd thither and straight took it by surrender of the very Rubeans themselves. Nicolas d' Este also took Modena by the assi∣stance of his Father-in-law, one Guido Gonziaco, whose Daughter he had married. And Philippino Gonzaza had Rheggio voluntarily yielded to him by the Citizens. But at the same time the growing Power of Ma∣stino Scala, who had gotten into Parma, Lucca and Padua by surrender from Ʋbertino Carrara, made all the Princes and States almost in Italy conspire to ruin his Grandeur; but the most zealous of 'em were the Venetians; Gonzaga, and d' Este besieged Verona, whilst Lucino with ano∣ther Army took Brescia and Bergamo. But the Venetians fearing, lest by their endeavours to lessen the power of one, they might augment that of another, they make a Peace with Mastino Scaliger upon Condition, that if he would let the Carrareses have Padua, and the Viscount Bre∣scia and Bergamo, as he formerly had, he should keep Verona, Vincenza, Parma and Lucca. This Peace was very offensive to the Florentines, who were their friends and Allies, and had a great mind to have Lucca: yet

they deferr'd their complaint till another time and at that present held their Tongues. But the Pope sent a Legat into Italy, who persuaded the Senate and People of Rome, that they would exercise the Senatorian Office in the name of him and the Church, though they had done it for a long time in the name of the King. For this reason Stephano Colum∣na was continu'd Senator for five years, and Collegues or Partners in the Office were assigned him annually. But when the Pope had sent for Stephano to Avignion, Ʋrsus Earl of Anguillaria, who was Stephano's Collegue, made Francis Petrarcha, a man very eloquent, especially in his Mother-tongue, and famous for the Poems he had publish'd, Poet Laureat, in the Capitol, before all the Nobility and people of Rome, in the year 1338. But the Pope fearing lest when the Empire was vacant, Italy might be invaded by any forein Enemy, he made Viscount Luchino and John his Brother, Arch▪bishop of Millain, Lieutenants of Millain and other Cities that were in their possession. The same Power he de∣legated to Mastino Scala over Verona, and Vincenza; to Philippino Gon∣zaga, in Mantua and Reggio: to Albertino in Carrara and Padua: and to Obicio d' Este in Ferrara, Modena and Argentae, and that very just∣ly, as he pretended; for the Empire being vacant, all the Power belonging to it devolves upon the Pope, who is the sole Vicar of Jesus Christ upon the Earth. But he set a Tribute upon Obicio d' Este, that he should pay ten thousand pounds every year to the Church of Rome. This Pope in all his Reign made but six Cardinal-Presbyters, and that at one time; who were excellent Persons, not of his own kindred, as 'tis usual now a days, but men called forth to receive such a Dignity, out of several Nations. Yet I do not disapprove of them, that are preferr'd to honour, because they are related to the person who confers it, if they are deser∣ving. Besides, he was a Man of such constancy, that he could not be induced to do an injury either by force, by importunity, or promises of gain. For he loved good Men, and on the contrary was an open Enemy to all evil, and ••lagitious persons. He likewise often attempted by his Legats to make Peace between Philip of France and Edward of England, but to no purpose, since they were such foes, as to have fought many bloody Battels one with another. For Edwards Navy engaged with the French above Selusas near Flanders so fiercely, that he overcame them, and kill'd (they say) full thirty three thousand French in that one fight. But the Pope, having tried to effect that business so often, at last de∣sisted, and betook himself to building a Palace for succeeding Popes with several Towers, and making of Orchards, which he finished. He also re∣paired the Roof of S. Peter's Church at his own charge, as the Inscrip∣tion under his Statute there shews. He died in the seventh year, third month, and seventeenth day of his Pontificate, and left a great quantity of Gold behind him, not to his Relations, but to the Church. He had a Design to have Zoto a famous Painter of that Age, to draw the Histo∣ries of the Martyrs in the House that he built, but was prevented by Death. At which every body was grieved, he was so good and so learn∣ed a Man; and shewed their sorrow by their Tears and Sighs, whilst they attended at his Funeral.

CLEMENT VI.

CLEMENT the sixth, a Limousin, formerly called Peter, at first a Monk, and then Arch-Bishop of Rouen, was at last made Pope at Avignion. He was a Man of great Learning, and exact Eloquence, liberal to all men, affable and very hu∣mane; elected Pope the seventh of May, and Crowned the sixteenth of June, in the year 1342. In the first year of his Pontificate, and the Ember-week after his Coronation he created eight Cardinal-Priests, and two Deacons, that is to say, his Brother who was a Monk of Tulle, and William his Sisters Son. Of those Priests also which he made one was his Relation by Marriage; and the following year he made two more, of which one was his Nephew by another Sister. This Pope when the Romans petition'd and told him, that whereas Boniface the eighth had formerly granted a full Remission of sins to all that visited the Shrines of the Apostles Peter and Paul every hundredth year (which space of time the Romans anciently called Saeculum, an Age, and thence their Games once in an hundred years, Ludi Saeculares.) they thought it more convenient the time should be contracted because men seldom lived so long, he freely consented that the Jubilee should be kept every fiftieth year. But when he sound that all Italy was in an uproar, he confirm∣ed onely Luchinus and John two Viscounts, his Lieutenants in the Dutchy of Millain, without mentioning the other Princes of Italy. For he thought that they alone were able to resist the Bavarian, who (as he gave out himself) was coming down into Italy, and, to requite the Pope, confirm'd many Lieutenants in the Towns and places belonging to the Church by his Imperial Authority. For he continued John of Vicourles, at Viterbo; Galeot Malatesia, and his Brethren, at Rimini, Pesaro, and Fano; Antonio Feletrario, at Ʋrbino; N••lphus and Gallasius, two Bro∣thers, at Callio; Allegretus Clavellus, at Farriano; Bulgarutius at Ma∣tel••ca; Ismedutius at Sancto Severino; Gentilis Varraneus, at Camerino; Michael, at Mount Milon; Pongonius, at Cingoli; Nicolas Boscaretus, at Esio; Guido Polentensis, at Ravenna; Francis and Synebald, at Forli, and Caesena; John Manfred, at Faenza; though before some of these men had gotten the same places under them partly by force and partly by the good will of the Inhabitants, as I said in the life of Benedict. But in the mean time the Frescobaldi, who were eminent Citizens of Florence, were banish'd by their fellow-Citizens, and would have instigated the Pisanes to War, but it was at an ill time. For the Florentines at that time were just upon buying Parma of the Scaligeri, and to that end had sent some of their Sons to Ferrara as Hostages, promising to give 'em for it 500000l. For there were two Arbitrators, one chosen by each party out of Ferrara. But the Florentines having engaged in several bloody fights one upon the neck of another, were extreamly weaken'd both by the Pisanes and their Allies, and at last even forced to slip the opportunity of such a bargain. Yet they did not neglect to send aids to the people of Lucca when they were besieged by the Pisanes; besides

that their Allies helped 'em too, under the conduct of Malatesta of Ri∣mini, surnamed Ʋngarus, who forced the Pisanes from Lucca. At that time Robert, who was an Ally of the Florentines, being moved with the calamities of his Confederates, sent one Gualter a French man, that they called Governor of Athens with a small party of Horse into Tus∣cany, who having by mere stratagem defeated Malatesta, who was but an unskilful Captain, he gain'd so cunningly upon the favour of the Flo∣rentines, that in a short time he was both General of their Forces and Governour of their City; and turn'd out all the other Officers in it. Those of Arezzo also, if Pis••oia, and Volaterra promoted his success, by surrendering themselves immediately to him. But when Accio Corri∣gienses had deliver'd up Parma, which he could not keep, to Obicio d' Este, Philippino Gonzaga, provoked to War by Obicio, got an Army to∣gether, and near to Reggio engaged with him so furiously, that he routed and pursu'd him as far as Ferrara▪ Then Obicio finding his condition desperate, put Parma which he could not defend, under the protection of Luchino in the year 1366. But when the Florentines could no longer endure the Tyranny of Gualter, and many were put to death every day for conspiring against him how to get their Liberty, Angelo Acciaiolo, Bishop of the City, sends away for the Citizens ready armed into his Bishoprick, with a resolution to recover the liberty of his Country. At which the Tyrant seeing himself too weak for the Citizens, made the Bishop himself Umpire concerning the Terms of Peace, and so march'd off in safety with what he had in the tenth month of his Reign. But the Rabble of the City shewed themselves ungrateful (as indeed they always do) and banish'd the Nobility, by whose conduct and courage they had gain'd their Liberty, spoiling their Goods and demolishing their Houses. And lest any thing should be lacking that might disturb all Italy, there were great animosities arisen in the Kingdom of Naples. For King Robert, dying without Issue male, bequeathed Johanna Daughter of Andrew, his Nephew, for a Wife to King Charles of Hungary's Son, who came at that time a Youth to Naples. But Johanna hating him, for a dull fellow, kill'd him by surprise in the City, which was generally a∣gainst the Match; and was married to his Cousin German, one Lewis, Son to a former Prince of Tarento, who was known to be Robert's Bro∣ther. But Lewis King of Hungary and Brother of her first Husband, resolving to revenge so great a piece of Villany, came into Italy with a very well order'd Army, and first attaqued the Sulmoneses, who had the boldness to oppose him. But in the mean while the manner of choosing Senators at Rome was alter'd by Apostolical Authority, and Nicolas de Renty, Citizen of Rome and publick Notary, a man very earnest and high for Liberty, when he had taken the Capitol, gain'd so much good will and Authority among all the people, that he could incline them to what he pleased. And that he might work upon them the more effe∣ctually, he used this Motto; Nicolas, the severe and merciful Patron of Liberty, Peace and Justice, and the illustrious Redeemer of the Sacred State of Rome. With these great Words he created such an admiration of himself, that all the people of Italy desired by their Embassadors to en∣ter into League and friendship with him: Beside that some forein Nations look'd upon the glory of the Roman Empire to be now reviving. But his vain Boasting continu'd not long; for whilst he was kind to some Citizens,

and an Enemy to others, he all on the sudden was accounted, instead of a Patron a Tyrant. So that in the seventh month of his Govern∣ment, of his own accord, without any bodies knowledg, on a dark Night he went disguised from Rome into Bohemia to Charles, the Son of John; whom Clement a little before had made the Electors put in nomina∣tion for Emperor, because he was so fine a Scholar; besides, that he had a mind to affront the Bavarian by setting up a Competitor. So the Tribune, i.e. Nicolas, was taken by Charles and carry'd to Avignion for a Present to the Pope. But Lewis having gotten into Sulmona after a long Siege, makes himself easily master of the whole Kingdom, since Johanna and the Adulterer Lewis were fled for fear into Narbonne, and had left onely the Duke of Durazzo Nephew to King Robert, to protect the Kingdom; who was conquer'd and taken by Charles, and put to Death. But the Plague being very hot all over Italy, Charles left suf∣ficient Garisons there, and return'd into Hungary, in the third month after his arrival; which was just about the time, when John the Arch-Bishop, a man of great courage and conduct received from the Pope the Lieutenancy of Millain, upon the death of his Brother Luchino. But Clement kept Nicolas in Prison, and sent some Cardinals to Rome, to settle the State of the City: to whom Francis Petrarcha wrote, per∣suading them to chuse Senators impartially out of the Commonalty, if they would appease the Tumults; since it did not sufficiently appear in Rome who were of the Senatorian and who of the Plebeian rank, be∣cause they were almost all Foreigners and born of strange Parents. Up∣on this Petro Sarra of Columna, and John Ʋrsini were declared Senators: At this time the Plague raged so all over Italy for three years, that there was scarce one man in ten that escaped. Nor is that any won∣der; for there was such a concourse of men from all places to Rome at the Jubilee, which was then celebrated, that they not onely brought the Contagion along with 'em, but by the throng and bustle and sweating that was among 'em, infected all places and persons. At that time the Town of Colle and Geminiano were made subject to the Florentines, and Bologna to the Arch-Bishop of Millain, by the voluntary surrender of the Citizens. At which the Pope, being disturb'd, sent a Legate into Italy to instigate the Florentines and Mastino Scala against the Viconti. But when Mastino was dead, the Arch-Bishop endeavour'd to draw Canegrande Son to Mastino, and all the Gibellins in Romagna and Tuscany, to make an Alliance with him, and sent his Nephew Bernabos to Bolog∣na, to keep the Citizens in Obedience. In the mean time the Floren∣tines, without any resistance, set upon the Pistoians and the Prateses, and at length reduced 'em by main force. But after that, being harrass'd by the Arch-Bishop's force under the command of John Aulegius, they could hardly defend themselves within their Walls. At that time Anguillara and Borgo di Sancto Sepolchro, belonging to the Church, re∣volted to the Viscounts: and then also we read, that the Genoeses and Venetians fought a Sea-Battel, in which the Genoeses at first were con∣quer'd; but afterward they were more victorious under the Com∣mand of Admiral Philip Auria, and not onely took the Island Scio from the Venetians, but kill'd a great many men in Ʋbaea (now called Ne∣croponte.) But Clement resolving at last to consult the quiet of Italy, De∣creed that Lewis, Prince of Taranto, should be King of Naples; renew'd

the Peace with the Hungarian; bought the City of Avignion of Queen Joan, whose Inheritance it was, and paid for it by remitting of a cer∣tain Fee, that amounted to rather more than the price of it, and was due from her to the Church of Rome upon the account of the Kingdom of Naples. But whilst Olegio Viconti besieged Scarperia in Muciallia, those of Siena, Arezzo and Perugia being affrighted, enter'd into a new Confederacy with the Florentines against the Viconti. The Pisans could not shew their friendship to the Viconti for the Gambacorti, a Noble Fa∣mily, that were Allies of Florence; who being now unable to withstand the Viconti alone call'd Charles the Emperor into Italy. At this the Pope was concern'd, and fearing Italy might be destroy'd with fire and sword (as the Emperor threaten'd) he deliver'd Bologni ro the Viconti upon Condition, that they should pay the Church twelve thousand pound a year, and made Peace between the Viconti and the Floren∣tines upon these terms; That neither of 'em should molest those of Pisa, Lucca, Siena, or Perugia; and that Borgo di Sancto Sepolchro should be subject to the Church, and the Viconti should preserve the Liberty of the Cortoneses. He also endeavour'd to compose the dif∣ferences between Philip of France and Edward of England, but in vain; for they were so incens'd to fight, that in one Battel Edward kill'd twenty thousand French, and after eleventh months Siege victoriously took Calais by storm. The same success he had against the Scots. But the Pope having done the Duty of a good Shepherd, seeing he could not advantage Christendom, abroad, he consulted how to do the Church some good at home. For he chose excellent Persons for Cardinals; e∣specially, Giles a Spaniard, who was Arch-Bishop of Toledo, Nicolas Cap∣pocius a Roman Citizen, Rainaldo Ʋrsina Protonotary of the Church of Rome, and his own Nephew, who after got the Papacy, and was cal∣led Gregory the Eleventh. Some say this Pope canonized Ivo a Bri∣tain, Priest and Confessor. He died in the ••enth year, sixth month and twenty eight day of his Pontificate in the year 1352. and was de∣cently buried at Avignion by the Cardinals that were then upon the place.

INNOCENT VI.

INNOCENT the sixth, a Limousin, formerly called Ste∣phen, a man very well skill'd in the Canon and Civil Law, first Procurator, then Bishop of Cleremont, and afterward Car∣dinal, was at first made Pope in the year 1352. upon the fifteenth of December. He was a Man of an exact Life, of great con∣stancy and severity; and bestowed Ecclesiastical preferments upon none but men of good lives and Learning. Immediately after his Corona∣tion he suspended many Indulgences which Clement had granted; com∣manding all Prelates, and others that had Ecclesiastical Benefices to re∣pair to their Churches under the pain of Anathema; saying, Flocks ought to be kept by their own Shepherds, and not by Hirelings. He also retrench'd his Houshold expences, and reduced his Family to a con∣venient number, and would have none but honest men about him. He

strictly commanded the Cardinals to do so too; for he would often tell 'em, that both his own life and that of all Church-Men ought to be an Example to the Laity; in imitation of our Saviour whose whole life was a pattern to all mankind. He likewise appointed certain Salaries for the Au••••tors of the Holy Palais, lest through want they should be tempted to give judgment for bribery. For he would say, that those who are ready to starve can hardly keep their hands from other peoples meat, if they have any opportunity to get it. He was sparing in his D••et, but in his Warlike preparations very expensive, whilst he endea∣vour'd to recover that by Arms, which formerly Usurpers had taken away from the Church. For he sent Giles Carillo, a Spaniard, Cardinal of S. Sabina, an excellent Person, his Legate à latere into Italy, to make War upon the Usurpers, and secure the Church Patrimony. At this time, the Emperor of Constantinople, the King of Aragon, and the Venetians en∣ter'd into a League against the Genoeses; and having gotten a great Navy together, superiour to the Genoeses both in the number of Ships, and Men; set upon them between Constantinople and Chalcedon in a place very disadvantageous for the Genoeses, and when the Wind was against 'em. They fought from Morning till Night, till at length the Grecians ran away, but the Venetians and Catalonians were most of 'em slain, together with their Admiral; under the command of Pagano Auria. But the Venetians were so enrag'd at this Defeat and disgrace, that they and the Catalonians recruited their Navy, and under the conduct of Ni∣colas a Pisan, routed the Genoeses the year following not far from the Island of Corsica, and sunk forty of their Galleys with their Men. The Genoeses terrified at this overthrow, deliver'd up their City and all they had to the Arch-Bishop of Millain: who, by attaquing the Vene∣tians, alarm'd the Lords of Padua, Verona, Ferrara, Mantua, and the Florentines too to oppose him; they fearing lest, when he had conquer'd the Venetians, he would set upon them also. The War was carried on by Land and Sea; but the Genoeses, Pagano Auria being their Admiral, had wonderful fortune at Sea, and, at Sapientia, a Promontory of Morea, defeated the Venetians; taking their Admiral Nicolas the Pisane, with five thousand men, whom they brought to Genoa in the year 1354. But the following year the Arch-Bishop of Millain died, which freed the Venetians and their Allies from a great deal of care. Bernabos and Ga∣leatius, his Brother Luchinus's Sons were his Heirs. No place but Genoa relinquish'd them, these two making a peace with the Venetians: which had been first proposed by Bernabos and Galeatius, at the instance of the Pope and Giles, his Legate. In the mean while Calo-Johannes Empe∣ror of Constantinople was restor'd, having vanquish'd Cahtacusenus who had usurped the Empire against all right and reason. But that action was perform'd by means of Francis Catalusius, a Genoese, a great Seaman, on whom he bestow'd Mitylen and all Lesbos for a Reward, which the Turk afterwards took from the Gatalusii when he had gotten Constan∣tinople and all Thrace in his power. Nor was there less uproar at Rome, than was then at Constantinople. For Francisco Baroncello, a Roman Ci∣tizen, and a great man, having degraded John Ʋrsin and Peter of Colum∣na from the dignity of Senators, usurp'd to himself the dignity of a Tri∣bune, with these Titles; that is to say, Francisco Baroncello, Secretary to the Senate, by the grace of God second Tribune of our Mother this City,

and Consul of Rome. When the Pope heard of it, he had a mind to re∣bate the audacious spirit of the Man, and sent Nicolas de Gencio, a per∣son full as ambitious, as he, out of the Goal at Avignion, to Rome, to re∣cover the Tribuneship. He, when he came into the City, being assist∣ed by the Nobility and great part of the Commons, threw Boroncello out of the Capitol and kill'd him; so that he enjoy'd the Tribuneship a∣lone. But not long after forgetting his former condition he persecuted the Nobility, and especially the Columneses, who were going out at the Ex∣quiline Gate into Campagna di Roma with a Petition, but was repelled so much to his disadvantage, that he betook himself into the Capitol; and from thence endeavour'd to escape; but the Enemy follow'd him at the heels, and though he were disguised, yet the Citizens of Rome dis∣cover'd him and cut off his Head. Then was Guido Jordan made sole Senator for a year by Apostolical Authority. About that time the Em∣peror who was Son to the King of Bohemia was very kindly entertain'd by the Carrariens, the Gonziacks, and Viconti, and receiv'd his Iron Crown, as the custom is, at Millain. And going from thence to Pisa, was met by Embassadors from the Sieneses, from those of Volaterra, and almost all Tuscany, who told him they were ready to obey his Commands. The Florentines would have done the same, but that they had first bought themselves out of his Dominion, with a great sum of money. After that he went to Rome, and was crowned by two Cardinals, who were sent on purpose, upon condition, that he should not stay any longer either at Rome or in Italy. This made him depart the sooner, and when he was gone, Giles, the Legate, quickly recover'd almost all the Towns, which the Usurpers had gotten by the instigation of the Bavarian, either in Romagna, Marca d' Ancona, or S. Peter's Patrimony. But he confirm'd all those Lieutenans of Towns, whom he saw obedient to the Church of Rome; as Galiot, Malatesta, and Guido Poletanus in Romagna, and the Va∣traneses in the Dutchy of Millain. But the O••delaphi who were disobe∣dient to the Church, he persecuted with two years Wars, and at length quite routed them out of Forli, For impopili and Cesena. These indeed might have retein'd some part of their Dominion by the assistance of James the Cardinal of Columna, a man who was a great friend to their Family, but they chose rather to lose the whole like men, than save any part of it sneakingly. But Giles, having quieted Romagna, was so pleas∣ed at Forli that he laid up not onely the Treasure of the Church, but also all the money which was sent from Avignion into Italy to build Castles in that Town, and made some Ordinances which the Province uses to this Day. But when Giles had setled Italy, and built a great many very necessary Forts in the Church Dominions, and reduced all the Italian Princes and States to Obedience, he had a Successor in the fifth year of his Embassy, called Arduinus a Burgundian, Abbot of Ci∣steaux, a man not at all fit for business. Wherefore when Giles was gone, all the Princes and States of Italy took up Arms. For the Pisans did so molest the Florentines, that, seeing no body durst oppose 'em, they plunder'd all the Country of Florence, and took Figino a Castle lying up the River Arno, burning all the Villages which were built thereabout. At that time Pandulphus Malatesta was Captain General of the Floren∣tine Army, whom the people forced to relinquish his civil Government, because he had never shewn that he had courage enough to engage

with an Enemy. But the Pisans were then much higher than before; not so much out of any hope they had of taking the City, as that they should bring a scandal upon it, and therefore after some light Skirmishes before the Gates, they return'd home with great spoils, about the be∣ginning of Autumn. And Bernabos also demolished many Castles in Bo∣logna (which was now harass'd with War) though the Abbot of Clugny defended it stoutly. Bologna, as I told you before, was subject to the Viconti; but Aulegianus betray'd it to the Abbot of Clugny, and was to have Fermo as the reward of his Treachery. But whilst that Berna∣bos made War upon Bologna and Reggio, the Apostolical Legate makes an Alliance with Philippino Gonzaga, Canes of Verona, and Nicolas d' Este to go against the Brescians. Then Bernabos, being concern'd for the danger which those of Brescia were in, left Bologna and Reggio, and march'd toward the Enemy, but was so defeated at Montclere, that af∣terwards he could hardly defend the very Walls of the City. About the same time the Florentines overcame the Pisans, under the command of Galeot Malatesta, by corrupting their Soldiers to come over to their Party. For this reason the Pisans laid all the fault upon the Cambacur∣ti, who were eminent Citizens there, because they paid the Soldiers covetously and stingily; and therefore recall'd John Agnellus who was banish'd, as being a friend to Bernabos, and against the Cambacurti: and he in a little time reduced the City, and made it acknowledg him for their Governour, having removed all the friends of the adverse fa∣ction. But when the Pope had made a Peace between the Pisans and the Florentines, one John Haucut who had been used to fight under the Pisans, got together all the Soldiers in Italy, and gave all people oc∣casion to fear; especially since Rome was in such an uproar at the choosing of Senators. But Innocent easily appeased their Discords by sending a forein Senator to 'em, called Raimund Ptolomy, a Citizen of Siena, who bore that Office a whole year, and that was in the year 1359. But though things were setled in this manner, yet the Romans could not be quiet. For they turn'd out their Senator, and created se∣ven Citizens with Sovereign Power whom they called the Reformers of the whole Republick. Upon this account Innocent made Hugo Lusig∣naneus, King of Cyprus (who was going then to War against the Turks) Senator, and commanded totally to abolish that Society of Reformers. But he, at that time, was very intent upon making an end of the War betwixt England and France, that all might go against the Turk. But when the English had overcome the French in Poictou, and had taken their King with Philip his Son, they were thought to have done a great exploit: yet at the same time Edward, out of his Princely generosity, gives all the Captives their Liberty, upon condition, that they would never fight against him more. But they soon after broke those terms of Peace, and forced Edward to resume his Arms and besiege Paris. Innocent design'd also to prepare a Navy against the Infidels, when at the same time the Pisans, who were excellent Seamen, and the Venetiano that had a great Navy, were at War, the former with the Florentines, and the latter with Lewis King of Hungary. For that King did then be∣siege Treviso with a great Army; besides that the Venetians were at va∣riance among themselves. For Marino their General being accused, as if he aspired to Sovereignty, was beheaded. Innocent being thus discom∣posed

in his mind, he died in the ninth year, eighth month, and sixth day of his Pontificate, just about the same time with Bartholus Saxofer∣ratus, the wisest man in all that Age. But before the Popes death there was such an Eclipse of the Sun, as never was before: wherefore all people thought that such a great Man could not die, but even the Planets would give some presages of his departure.

ƲRBAN V.

URBAN the fifth, of Lymosin, formery called Will. Grisant, Abbot of S. Victor at Marseilles, was made Pope in his ab∣sence by universal consent. For at that time he was gone in∣to Italy as Legate to the Viconti; but being called to Avig∣nion he enter'd upon the Popedom. And no sooner was he got into the Chair, but, being a person of singular Virtue, great Courage, and very innocent in his Conversation, he immediately apply'd himself to vin∣dicate the Churches Liberty, and made use of such Instruments, as were zealous for the business. For he sent Giles a Spaniard (of whom we said something before) into Italy with full Power and Authority; who so far animated and engaged Lewis Gonzaga, Nicolas d' Este, and Francisco Carrario, against Bernabos, that he was overcome by them, and lost his Son in the Battel, and being wounded hardly escaped with his life. Nor was that all, but the Enemy took Andrew Pepulo a Bolog∣nian Banditto, Synebald Ordelaphus, Paulus Mirandula, Guido Foliano, A∣zo of Corrigia, William Cavalcabos, the most Signal Commanders of the Army. But the Kings of England, France, and Cyprus were concern'd at the misfortune of the Viconti and sent Embassadours to Giles, to de∣sire him, that he would make Peace with them. Which Embassadours were not sent in vain; for a Peace was concluded, though it were of no long continuance. For John Hawkwood, on the behalf of the Viconti, having engaged the Florentines, routed their Army at S. Miniato, which caused Giles, the Legate, to send Thomas Obicio an excellent Comman∣der, with three thousand Horse, and a competent number of Foot to help the Florentines. They fought betwixt Arezzo and Cortona four hours together stoutly: but at length Thomas, chiefly with the assist∣ance of his Infantry, gave the Enemy such a blow, that of six thousand Horse, which fought under Hawkwood, few escaped, and the Captain himself yielded. Those that had revolted from the Church when they heard of this great Victory, immediately surrender'd. Ʋrban then came into Italy, in the fourth year of his Pontificate to settle things, and Giles the Legate met him at Corneto; and rendring an account of what he had done was discharg'd from his Legateship; and the Pope going on his way from Corneto to Rome, he retired quietly in his old Age at Viterbo, where he died in three months after. He was a Man of singu∣lar Virtue and Courage, and preserv'd the Honour of the Church, whilst he lived, most wonderfully. His Body was carried to Assisi, and buried in the Church of S. Francis, in a Tomb that he built himself, whilst he was living. When Charles the Emperor understood that Ʋrban was gone

to Rome, he went thither too as fast as he could with his Wife and Chil∣dren; but, by the way, took Lucca from the Pisanes, and Sancto Miniato from the Florentines. Whether he went to Rome or no is not certain; because 'tis said, he received his Imperial Crown from Pope Innocent the Sixth, who sent the Cardinal of Ostia to Rome for that purpose. But having received a great sum of mony of the Florentines, to buy their own peace, he march'd out of Italy the third month after he came thither, in the year 1368. Ʋrban had sought a long time for the Heads of SS. Peter and Paul (which through the ignorance of the times had long been neglected) and having light upon them at Sancta Sanctorum he put 'em up in Silver Cases next the great Altar of the Lateran, where they were highly honour••d by a great concourse of all the Clergy and People of Rome. The same Pope built one Palace in the old City, and another in Montefiascone, that he and other Popes might retire thither to avoid the Heat and bustle of the Town. But resolving to go back short∣ly into France, he made John Hawkwood an excellent Commander whom he released out of Prison, General of all those Forces that had serv'd under Giles, to guard the Church Patrimony till he return'd again. For he design'd to return for Italy. But going into France, he died at Marseilies in the eighth year, and the fourth month of his Pontificate: or (as others will have it) he dy'd at Avignion just about the time, when Briget a devout Woman, who was a Princess of Switzerland, came to Rome upon a Vow she had made. There were at the same time some Commotions in Puglia after the death of Nicolas Acciolo, who was Go∣vernour of that Province, and a Stout, Wise Man.

GREGORY XI.

GREGORY the Eleventh, of Lymosin, formerly call'd Peter Belford, and Cardinal-Deacon of New S. Maries, was made Pope at Avignion by a general consent. Clement VI. his Uncle, made him Cardinal when he was scarce seventeen years of age. But that he might not seem to consult the good of his Kindred more than that of the Church, he sent him to the best Masters he could find for breeding, and especially to Baldus, who at that time was a Professor at Perugia. Under whom he made such progress in all sorts of Learning that Baldus often used his Authority to clear a Doubt. And then he was a Man of such innocence, good nature, affability and piety, that he was generally beloved. At his entrance upon the Pon∣tificate this was the state of things in Italy; at Rome the Courts of Ju∣stice were held by Senators whom the Pope appointed for every six months, but the Guard of the City and all the management of publick Affairs were in the hands of the Banderesii, so named from their Banners (a Teutonic word) which they used in War, by which every Decuria (now called Capo di Regione or Head of a Ward) was distinguish'd. In Lombardy, those Nobles who (as I said before) conspired against the Viconti, surprised the City of Reggio by treachery which was before in their possession, but the Castle holding out, Bernabos entring the City

that way at the first Onset overthrew the Enemy and driving away Lu∣cius the German Commander, repossess'd himself of the place. Thus went matters in Italy, when Perinus King of Cyprus, who succeeded his Father Peter, was the cause of great animosities between the Genoeses and the Venetians. For when he was Crown'd at Famagosta, and two Bailiffs (as the Merchants call their Residents) one from Genoa, and the other from Venice were there attending; they strove who should walk on the right hand the King, which raised such a Tumult that the Genoeses were beaten and wounded basely, the King favouring the Venetians. The Genoe∣ses hereupon got a Navy of 40 Ships together, under the command of Pe∣ter Fregoso, Brother to Dominick Fregoso, and invaded Cyprus; and landed fourteen thousand men, to destroy all the Island with fire and sword for violating the Law of Nations. The King being deserted on all sides submitted to their mercy, and surrendering Famagosta, promised the Ge∣noeses to give them 40000. per annum to purchase his Peace. The Popes Legate was now come into Italy and had setled the state of the Church, he made a Peace with the Viconti, when a new Tumult arose at Prato, which was the original of great confusion. For the Inhabitants of Prato endeavouring to vindicate themselves from the Dominion of the Flo∣rentines, called the Church Forces into Tuscany by permission from the Legate. But the Florentines so far corrupted them with money, that they enter'd Prato by their assistance, put the Conspirators to death, and sent a great many Banners, with Liberty written upon them, by se∣veral Troops, to several Towns; exhorting the People, as their Lords, that they would remember the Liberty of the Church, and cast off the yoke of Servitude. The first that revolted from the Church were the Castellani, then the Perugians, those of Todi, Spoleto, Gubio, Viterbo, Forli, and Ascoli follow'd their Example. At that time too Astorgius Manfred, under the Bavarian, having tasted the sweetness of absolute Dominion, had possess'd himself of Granariolo a Castle near Faenza: against whom the Legate sent John Hawkwood with some Troops out of Bologna. The Florentines and those of Bologna defended Astorgius, and keeping out Hawkwood with all his men, asserted their Liberty. But Hawkwood seeing the Faenzeses ready to rebel, he not onely plunder'd the City severely, and kill'd all that his Soldiers met, but he sold the very ground on which it stood to Nicolas and Albert d' Este, two Bro∣thers, for 20000 l. reserving onely Bagnacavallo to himself, where the Carriages of his Army lay. The Pope hearing of such great Revolu∣tions sent Cardinal Cevennes as his Legate with six thousand British Horse ito Italy; who coming down through Piedmont, march'd as far as the very Gates of Bologna without doing any hurt designing to be∣siege the City. But when the Legate heard the Florentines were come to the assistance of the Bolognians under the conduct of Rodolphus Var∣raneo, he went with his Army, to Winter in Cesena. In which City there was such an upooar by reason of the pride of the French, that six hundred Britains were slain, and the rest turn'd out of Town. But they got in again afterward by way of the Tower, and being increased in their number they fill'd all places with bloud and rapine, not sparing even those, whose very age made their excuse: onely young Women and Maids were kept alive to be abused. But those of Forli, fearing lest for want of advice, and one to Govern them they might be op∣press'd

by the Legate, they took Synebald, Pyne, John, and Theobald, Or∣delaphi as their Lords into the City, and were bravely defended by them from the fury of the Britains. But Pope Gregory conceiving that all the mischiefs of Italy proceeded from his being absent, and that the long shipwrack of Affairs there happen'd because the Pilot was out of the way, the good Man was very intent a good while upon a Journey in∣to Italy. But he was mightily concerned at a certain Bishops words, who being asked by the Pope (as they were walking together) why he did not return to his Church, which he ought not to have left so long without a Pastor? He reply'd, Why do not you that are the greatest Bishop, give a good Example and go to your own Bishoprick at Rome? The Pope was disturb'd at these words, and therefore he got ready one and twenty Ships in the Rhoan, under pretence of going elsewhere, that he might not be stop'd by the French, as he would have been, if they had understood he had been going to Rome: because it was their Interest to keep the Court in France. Thereupon he went first to Genoa, and then to Corneto; from whence he went by Land (for he was weary of sailing, in the Winter especially) to Rome, and arrived there in the year 1376. about the 11. of January in the seventh year of his Pontificate, and the 70th year after the Court went out of Rome into France. But what preparations the people of Rome made, and with what incredible joy they received him 'tis needless to relate; for all the Nobility went to meet him, with their countenances, gestures and ac∣clamations expressing all kind of pleasure, as Children do that see their dear Father return'd from a strange Country. And indeed all things lacked his presence there. For both the Walls, the Churches and all buildings in general, publick or private, threatened nothing but ruin, till he repaired most part of them, as the Tower, which he built at S. Maries the Great does testifie. The morality also of the City was so decay'd, that they seemed to have nothing about 'em which look'd like a Citizen; but appeared as if they ought to go and learn manners, who formerly had reduced the whole to urbanity and good behaviour. So then the Pope, having seated himself in Rome (as a good Pastor should do) began to look about him, and think of a cure for the Wounds of Italy. And whilst he was a ruminating of it, he consider'd that nothing but a Peace could do the feat. Thereupon he sent his Legate first to the Florentines, who inclin'd to War, and persuades 'em not to slight or re∣fuse any fair Conditions of Peace. They suspecting the Popes power, and fearing lest they should be compell'd to make a Peace, enter into Alliance and Confederacy with Bernabos their old Enemy. After that they corrupted Haucut with money and fair promises to come over from the Church to their Party: at which they were so triumphant, and so proud, that they omitted no sort of injury or Affront, that they could do the Pope. For which they were anathematized, and yet were so insolent, that they forced their Priests, notwithstanding the Interdi∣ction, to perform the Divine Offices against Law and Reason. The Pope therefore weary at last of intreating took up Arms, and having recon∣ciled Bologna, which was to be govern'd in his Name, he, like the Flo∣rentines before made Varraneo his stipendiary, and gave him the com∣mand of the Church Army, to go against Florence. But a quarrel arose between the Genoeses and the Venetians which put a stop to his Designs,

he fearing, lest any forein force should invade Italy, if he ingaged with the Florentines himself. For whilst Andronicus, by the Genoeses assistance, to whom he had given Tenedo, as the reward of the Exploit, had de∣throned Charles's Father, who was John, Emperor of Constantinople, the Venetians restored him again to his Country, and had the Island Tene∣do given to them by him. At which the Genoeses were angry though they deferr'd their revenge till another occasion, for fear of the Pope's Curse, who threaten'd it to both parties, if they did not quit their Arms, not holding it fit for either of them to meddle in that War. But whilst this holy Man did all things with that diligence that became a Pope, he dy'd of that intolerable pain, the stone in the Bladder, in the se∣venth year, and fifth month of his Pontificate, the sixteenth of April, in the year 1378. and was buried in S. Maries in the New Street, in a Marble Tomb, which is yet to be seen; and so much lamented as ne∣ver man was before him. For all people thought themselves deprived of a Father, in him; and did bewail not onely the present but their future Calamity, into which they were faln by the loss of so good a Pope, and the Discords that arose among the chief Citizens.

ƲRBAN VI.

GREGORY being dead, and the making a new Pope being under debate, the Clergy and People of Rome address'd themselves to the Cardinals, and desired 'em, that they would choose some worthy Person, an Italian, to govern the Church and State of Rome with integrity and piety: for that, unless an extra∣ordinary Pastor were then elected, Christianity, as it stood at that time, must needs fall to decay. And they desired an Italian Pope, lest, if he were a French man, the Court of Rome must remove again beyond the Mountains, to the great disadvantage, and damage of the City of Rome, and all Italy besides. Alledging, that when the Pope was ab∣sent, all the Country and City were continually embroil'd with Usur∣pations, and Seditions; and that the Churches in Rome were so neglect∣ed, and thereby grown so much out of order, that they were most of 'em ready to fall. And that, upon this account, the people who came con∣tinually to Rome were not so zealous as they used to be, when they saw the Papal Sea, the Cardinals Churches, and Monasteries, nay the holy places where the Martyrs lie, without a Roof, and the Walls fal∣ling down, to let in sheep and other Cattel. That it was fit the Pope should live where Peter had placed the Pontifical Chair by the Will of God, out of his own Country and Nation, and advanced the honour of it by the ashes and the blood of Martyrs, Confessors, and holy Popes. Hence might the Pastors of the Church, if they were circumspect and mind∣ful of Christs Command, or incited by Example of those whose Martyr∣doms and Actions they had before their Eyes, consult the Salvation of Mankind; and at the same time recover S. Peter's Patrimony, which had been seised by several Usurpers in Tuscany, Sabina, Campagna di Ro∣ma, Ombria, Millain, and Romagna, whilst the Popes were absent. That

they would not say for the present, how the piety of people was dimi∣nish'd, and that their Pilgrimages to Rome, or to see the Bodies or Reliques of the Saints were much rarer than formerly, by reason of the Popes absence; but that all these things might still be restored, if an Italian were chosen Pope. The Cardinals made Answer, that they would take care to choose an excellent Man, to govern the Church of God, with∣out any respect to Persons or Nations, in imitation of our Saviour, who chose Apostles out of all Nations. That they might go and be satis∣fied that they would do nothing but what should promote the glory of God, the good of the Church and of all Christendom. So they ap∣pointed a Conclave at S. Peter's, and order'd a certain number of Guards to be in the Vatican, lest any Tumult might hinder so important an Election; But when they came to Vote, there was a great debate all of a sudden. For there were thirteen French Cardinals, who would have had a Pope chosen out of them; and four Italians, among whom one, that was of the Ʋrsin Family, did most aspire to the Popedom. The French seem'd to have the better of it because they had the Majority: but there hapning a quarrel betwixt those of Limosin and the other French Men, each side contending for the choice of a Pope out of their party, they chose Bartholomew Arch-Bishop of Bari, a Neapolitan, or, as others say, a Pisan, not of the Colledg of Cardinals, and in his absence, by the name of Ʋrban the Sixth. But before they appear'd abroad, or that it was known, that Ʋrban was made Pope; the French scandalized the Election, as extorted by fraud and fear, whilst the Romans urged them with force and Arms to chuse an Italian. So that the Cardinals when they came out of the Conclave, fled partly into Castel S. Angelo, and partly into other secure places, to avoid the fury of the enraged people. Cardinal Ʋrsin also went to Vicovaro, having great hopes of getting the Pontificate in a time of such Discord. But not long after the Cardinals repented, and came to the City, where they confirm'd Ʋrban, whom they had formerly chosen, saluting him, according to the dignity of a true Pope. Three months after the French Party pretend∣ed the City was too hot for 'em, and desired of the Pope, that he would give 'em leave to go to Anagni, for change of Air, which in the City was pestilent, especially in the Summer, and to French Constitutions; though they indeed were affraid of his severity, and so were desirous to get out of the way. For he had often called 'em to him and admonished them, to keep their hands clean, and receive no bribes nor rewards for pleading in behalf of others, or doing any man a kindness that should ask it: And told 'em, that he would punish them severely that he found guilty of Simony, or promoting unjust Suits. Besides he told 'em that he should be pleased, and was very desirous, that they would omit some of their State, and such a train of Servants and Horses, for what they spent in such vanity was really due to the Poor, or ought to have been employ'd toward the repairs of tottering Churches. He told 'em, that he would chuse good men to be about his own person, and that he would make the wicked suffer for their offences, unless they mended their manners. And because he heard that the French Cardinals did talk once, as if the Court of Rome would go back into their Countrey, he told 'em publickly that he would stay at Rome, and would not hearken to any one that should persuade him to remove from it, because, as he

said, the foundation of the universal Church, and of Christian Faith, was laid at Rome, and all the superstructure raised in the same place. The French Cardinals were moved with these Reasons, and especially those, who had robbed the Church Treasury upon the Death of several Popes, and done what they pleased; they fled first to Anagni, next to Fondi, where they inveigh'd against Ʋrban as a false Pope, and said he was made by force, and received his Crown by force, because that Ele∣ction and Coronation was not in a place at all safe, where peoples Wills and Votes might be free, but that on the contrary, they were forced to chuse an Italian rather than a French man. For these Reasons, the Sea (as they said) being vacant, they (who were eight in all) by the permission and favour of Queen Joan, chose Cardinal Cevennes, who had been Legate in Italy; and called him Clement the Seventh. Hence arose a great and a long quarrel in the Church of God, which they call a Schism; when part of the Christian Princes favour'd Ʋrban, and part favour'd Cevennes. Nor were these seditious Cardinals content with that, but sent the Britains, who had plunder'd and taken many Castles, Vil∣lages and Forts, against the Pope and people of Rome, who meeting the Enemy at Ponte Salaro in a confused manner were conquer'd and kill'd. But after that they fought another Battel at Sancto Marino with such cou∣rage and intention that they beat the Britains and kill'd so many of 'em, that there was hardly a Messenger left to carry the news. Those that were in the Castles defended themselves for some time, but espe∣cially the Governour of the Castle of Surio, who after many years sur∣render'd it to Pope Martin. In the mean time the Genoeses begin to shew the malice which they had conceiv'd in their hearts against the Venetians, and took Lewis King of Hungary into their Alliance, with Francis of Carrara, Lord of Padua, the Duke of Austria, and the Patriarch of Aquilegia. On the part of the Venetians were Perinus of Lusignan King of Cyprus, and so was Bernabos Viconti. In the first Engagement at Sea the Venetians had the better of it, upon the Coast of Antio, un∣der the Command of Victor a Pisan: of ten Genoese Ships five being lost. At that time also the Marchesi of Carreto, by the assistance of Ber∣nabos took Albenga, Noli, and Castel Franco from the Genoeses, but not long after they made a Peace with 'em and restored all. After this the Genoeses put Dominick Fregoso their Duke into Prison, with his Brother Peter, and made Nicolas Gualch their Governour by Land, and Lucian Auria their Admiral by Sea. But Bernabos, that had married his Daugh∣ter to the King of Cyprus, sent her very honourably into Cyprus to her Husband, with twelve Galleys, six Catalonian and six Venetian. Peri∣nus thus strengthened attaqued Famagosta both by Sea and Land; but in vain; for the Soldiers within defended it stoutly, and his Navy was batter'd, and disabled by bad Weather. In the mean while the Vene∣tians on the one side and the Genoeses on the other did not cease to mo∣lest both the Seas: For whilst Charles Zono, Admiral of the Venetian Fleet, infested the Genoeses in the Tyrrelene Sea, Lucian Auria over ran the Adriatique to the great damage of the Venetians, setting upon them from Zara (where his Ships lay at Anchor) the King of Hungary's Port. The Venetians were very much concern'd for the injury done to 'em, and seeing they could not draw Lucian to fight, they burnt two Towns of the Kings called Cataro, and Sibinico. In the mean time Galeatius Vicon∣ti

died, in the year 1379. and almost all the Dutchy of Millain seem∣ed to be for Bernabos: at which the Venetians were much pleased, but to no purpose; for first the half, and then the whole Country fell off to John Galeatius his Nephew. Lucian, Admiral of the Genoeses, mo∣ving toward Pola, conquer'd and took the Venetian Navy in the very Harbour: but, whilst he pursu'd the Enemy too rashly, he was run through with a Lance and died. Both the Navies, as well the Con∣queror, as the conquered, were brought into Zara, whither the Genoeses sent Peter Auria in the room of his deceased Brother, with nine Gal∣leys, and many other Vessels: who taking an account of his Brothers Victory, found two thousand Captives, beside the multitudes that were kill'd and drown'd. The Venetians were attaqued at Land too by Car∣rara and his Allies, whom I have mention'd, to whom the Venetians opposed Albrico Barbiano Earl of Cuni, an excellent Commander. But Peter Auria having gotten a Navy of sixty Galleys, and as many other Vessels, went to Venice, storm'd and burn'd Grado, Comachio, and Cahorle. From thence he went to Chioza, which though it were defended for some time by the Venetians, yet he took it at last, by assistance of Supplies, which he had from the Governour of Padua. 'Tis certain that full six thousand men were slain in that Siege, and nine hundred and fifty of the Venetians taken, and sent to Zara; they spared the Women, not violating their Chastity in all their fury and violence. The Venetians being quite disheartened at this Calamity, and despairing of any help by Sea or Land, set the Genoese Captives at liberty, and sent 'em to Chioza to their Admiral, to beg their pardon, and to make their submission to the Will of the Conqueror; But the Genoeses, proud of their Victory, as Conquerors use to be, refused to answer the Venetians, unless they would come and surrender themselves and all they had. Thereupon the Venetians betook themselves to the defence of their Country, and setting up Chains of Iron before the Ports mouth, and a Guard of three hundred Horse with as many Foot upon the Key; they sought out for some one person, whom they might make their General. And being in great doubt by reason of their Distractions whom to chuse, it was proposed by some body, that Victor of Pisa was the onely man fit∣ting to be in a place of that Trust, as well understanding the Power and Arts of the Genoeses. That Voice (whoever spoke) was heard with great reverence, as if it came from an Oracle: for immediately they ran all to the Prison, where he lay for his ill management at Pola, and taking him out made him their sole Commander. The Genoeses by that time were come very near, and having taken all the Castles thereabout, were just entering the City; but were easily repulsed after a long fight by John Barbadicus with certain small Ships well arm'd, the Genoese Galleys not being able to come on, in those narrow Seas. Besides, Barbadicus used this other Stratagem. There was at that time an Instrument, called Bombarda, i.e. a Gun, newly invented by a certain German, and called Bombarda from its thundering sound; and each of the Venetian Skiffs had two of those Guns or more, whereby the Genoeses who were ignorant and unskill'd in this new kind of fighting, were many of 'em destroy'd; each Gun often killing two or three men at one shot, because they were not able to avoid them so well on board as if they had been on shoar. Hereupon the Venetians bad Bernabos Viconti their friend

and Ally, to press upon the Genoeses so as to raise their Siege; they already wanting provisions. And indeed the Venetians must have pe∣rished, if (as Carrara advised, the Genoeses had taken care to hinder supplies from being imported into Venice. Bernabos, to give some satis∣faction to the Venetians, sent his Army against the Genoeses; who when they had plunder'd the Valley of Pulcephera and taken nineteen thou∣sand, they left the Genoeses (who fought against Bernabos not with Swords but with Gold,) and having loaded themselves with Spoil re∣turn'd into Millain. Astorgius of Faenza had not so good luck, when he was sent thither, by Bernabos, with the Horse. For coming toward the City he was routed by the people of Genoa who sallied out upon him, but escaped with much ado himself in the habit of a Country Fellow. But Calo John Emperor of Greece, being an Ally of the Venetians, be∣sieged Pera, a Place belonging to the Genoeses, over against Constantinople. For he saw the Genoeses were engaged in many and dangerous Wars. But Andronicus his Son, who was an equal Enemy to his Father and the Venetian both, with the assistance of the Turks and Bulgarians, defend∣ed it stoutly, and frighted his Father to that degree, that he soon after came over to the side of the Genoeses. In the mean time Ʋrban was not so intent upon making Peace between Christians (which he should have done) as he was desirous to revenge the injuries which he received from Queen Joan, and therefore incited Lewis, King of Hungary, to re∣venge his Brother Andrea's death and he would help him. He consent∣ed, and by instigating Charles his Son (who was then carrying on the War against the Venetians in Marca Trevisana) against Joan, he gave the Venetians some little respit, who before that were almost ruined. And it added somewhat to their Affairs that Charles Zenus a Venetian, an ex∣cellent Sea-man sunk two Ships of Burthen in the Port of Chioza, and reduced the Genoeses to that extremity, that they themselves (since all other Passes were stopp'd up, and they could not bring their Ships out) seemed rather to be besieged than to besiege, they were in such necessity of all provisions. But nothing did the Genoeses so much injury, as the death of Peter Auria who was kill'd by a shot from a Gun, as he was stoutly defending the Fortifications of Chioza. In whose place Matthew Ruffus was presently chosen, who, as he was coming to Chioza with new Galleys, took Thaddeus Justinianus at Manfredonia, with six Galleys la∣den with Provisions. Agapetus, Cardinal Columna, being concern'd for these misfortunes, exhorted the Genoeses and the Venetians to Peace very often, but all in vain: for they, who fought out of hatred, not for Do∣minion, would never hearken to the wholesom advice of those who gave 'em good Counsel. At length the Genoeses, when they saw themselves so begirt at Chioza, that they could not sally forth for the Venetian, nor get provisions from Matthew Ruffus, or the Lord of Padua, who had promised them shortly to supply them, they surrender'd the Town on the first of July 1380. At which time there were taken of the Ene∣my 4340. though more died in the Siege by Famine and the Sword. Yet the Genoeses, though they had receiv'd such a fatal blow, could not lie still, but with thirty eight Galleys compelled the Triesteses to re∣volt from the Venetians to the Patriarch of Aquilegia. They likewise took Justinople, but not the Castle. And when they had recruited their Navy they went for Venice again; but no body encountring them, they return'd

into Istria, took the City Pola and burn'd it: Many slaughters followed on both sides. But the Venetians were overcome in a Land fight by Carrara, whilst James Caballus an excellent Commander, defended Treviso stout∣ly, which was almost forc'd by Famine to a surrender. And now both sides being well tired with such a long and bloody War, the Duke of Sa∣voy, upon the 23d of September, 1381. makes Peace between them upon these terms; that the Venetians, every tenth year, should pay the King of Hungary seven thousand pounds, provided he kept all his part of Dalmatia free from Pirates, and suffer no Salt to be made in his Dominions there; and that the Patriarch of Aquilegia should have the same Power in Friuli as before the War. But the Venetians and the Genoeses were order'd, to send home each others Captives, without any mention of the Spoils which were taken on either side. The Padueses were commanded to draw off from the Siege of Treviso; and to demolish the Towers, and Forts which they had raised in Fens, and at the mouths of several Rivers; upon which account bounds were set out between the Venetians and those of Padua. In the mean while Charles whom we told you the Pope sent for out of Hungary to go against Joan, came into Italy with eight thou∣sand Horse, and first reduced Arezzo, which had been long embroiled by the seditions of the Guelphs and Gibellins. From thence moving to∣ward Florence, he was repell'd by John Hawkwood who at that time quarter'd at S••agia. But the Florentines fearing they should not be able to endure the shock of such a mighty King, they purchased a Peace of him at the rate of 40000 l. and discharged Hawkwood without his pay; who sold Bagnavallo to Nicolas and Albert d' Este, that they might the better keep Faenza in obedience, which notwithstanding they soon after lost by treachery, to Astorgius Manfredus. But Charles, after he had vi∣sited Ʋrban at Rome went into his Kingdom, and having conquer'd all Joans Forces, took Naples by surrender. The Queen was besieged in Castelnovo, when the Guelphs of Arezzo made a Tumult and forced James Caracciolo a Citizen of Naples who was sent thither by the King, to fly into the Castle. The Gibellins also fled thither too, whose good that just Man consulted as much as the Guelphs. For he desired to carry every thing alike with equity in all cases. Wherefore having sent for Albrick Barbianus from Todi upon the account of an injury which he reviv'd, he went into the City, and whilst he strove to reduce the Guelphs, he plunder'd the Gibellins also. And Ferraback another Gene∣ral who follow'd Albrick took all the remaining spoil that he could find in Arezzo. Whilst these things were transacted in Naples and Arezzo, a new cloud of War overcast Italy. For Lewis of Anjou, of the Blood Royal of France, enter'd Italy with thirty thousand Horse, and posted himself not far from Bologna, being set on by Clement the Anti-Pope not so much to free Queen Joan who was besieged, as by force to depose Ʋrban. For this reason Charles left Arezzo and sent for Albrick and Fer∣raback; to whom also the Frorentines sent John Hawkwood at the request of Ʋrban. Lewis going through Marci was come as far as the Forest of Cassino, expecting twelve thousand Horse, which were already come in∣to Italy under the command of Andegranius, and marching through Via∣cenza, Lucca, Florence, and Siena were arrived at Arezzo, where they were let in by the Guelphs, and sack'd the City, after Albrick had given 'em a fatal blow. The Gibellins defended the Castle, which was be∣sieged

forty days, and had been taken by the French, had not Lewis of Anjou died in the mean time. Then Andegranius, seeing how things went, by advice of the people of Arezzo, that were besieged in the Castle, sold the City to the Florentines; and so return'd into France. And the Anjouen Soldiers now destitute of their General, wandered home by two or three in a Company begging by the way. Ʋrban being now deli∣ver'd from the fear of the French, went to Naples, and as'd leave of the King, to make his Nephew Prince of Campania, which when he could not obtain, being of a clownish and uncivil temper, (which he would have had to be interpreted a blunt down-right honesty) he began to threa∣ten him, and provoked the King so far, that he set a Guard upon him for some days, and would not suffer him to walk the Streets. This af∣front he seemed to wink at for a time, and with the Kings good leave went to Nocera, to avoid (as he himself said) the heat of that City. Where when he had fortified the Town he made some new Cardinals, and imprison'd seven of the old ones, charging upon them a Conspiracy with the King and the Anti-Pope against him. Besides that He com∣manded a Process (to speak in their phrase) against the King, and sent him a Citation to appear: and had this answer from him, That he would come very shortly to Nocera, and acquit himself of all Crimes ob∣jected not with Words but with Weapons. And in order thereunto he came to Nocera with a competent Army, and besieged the Town. But Raymund Balcianus, of the Family of the Ʋrsins, and Son to the Earl of Nola (who was afterward Prince of Taranto) was concern'd at the indignity, with his own Forces, which he commanded under the King, he carried Ʋrban and the whole Court to the next Shore, and put 'em on board certain Genoese Galleys prepared for the purpose. By the way as the Pope sailed to Genoa, he took seven Cardinals at Nocera, of which he put five into Baggs and drowned them in the Sea. But upon the death of Lewis King of Hungary the Nobility of that Country sent presently for Charles: who going thither called a Convention of the Estates for the setling of Affairs, but whilst he was busie upon it, the Queen who ow'd him a grudg procur'd him to be murther'd, in the year 1385. This was just about the time, when John Galeatius put Viscount Ber∣nabos (his Uncle by the side of his Father Galeatius) into Prison at Monza, where he kept him as long as he liv'd, and enjoy'd his Estate. For formerly when they divided their Patrimony, Pavia, Vercelli, No∣vara, Tortona, Alessandria, and other places toward the Apennine Moun∣tains and the Alps, fell to Galeatius; and Piacenza, Cremona, Parma, Lau∣den, Brescia, and Pergamo, to Bernabos; Millain being common to both. Ʋrban had now pass'd a whole year at Genoa, when news was brought him that the Florentines incited the Cities belonging to the Church to assert their Liberty, as they had done formerly; upon which he went first to Lucca, and then to Siena and Perugia: And those Cities being confirm'd in their Allegiance by his coming, he went as far as Feren∣tino under pretence of seeing Naples; but his true Design was, to turn Ladislaus, a very Child, and John, both Sons to Charles, out of their paternal Inheritance. For many Noblemen, that favour'd Lewis of An∣jou, gave him hope of enjoying that Kingdom; but those of Gajetta were very faithful, and preserving the Children alive, saved the King∣dom too to their great Honour. The Pope therefore return'd to Rome

not being able to effect his Design, but was receiv'd into the City with great pomp; though not long after the Banderesii laid wait for him, which yet he escaped, and frustrated. He created in one day twenty nine Cardinals, of which three were Romans, the rest almost all Neapo∣litans. In the mean while Antonius Scala of Verona and Francis the el∣der, Lord of Padua, were engaged in a bloody War, in which John Ʋ∣baldin lead the Army of the Carrareses, and John Ordelafo that of the Scaligeri. But Galeatius Viconti, with the assistance of the Carrareses, conquer'd the Scaligeri, and took Verona and Vincenza. Nor was he so contented, but in a few months he besieged and took Padua, and im∣prison'd Francis Carrara at Monza; Francis his Son escaping by flight. The Florentines also willing now to encrease their Dominions, took Monte-Pulciano and Lusignano, two Towns in the Territories of Siena, by Stratagem rather than by strength; And afterward sent Charles, Son to Bernabos, and Antony Scala with five thousand Horse into the Country of Siena to forage. This mov'd Galeatius to such a degree, that he dispatch'd Embassadors to Florence to complain, that contrary to the League heretofore made between them, the Florentines had en∣tertain'd in pay his Enemies, Charles Viconti and Antony Scala; and that against all right and justice they had harass'd his Friends and Al∣lies, the Sienneses: In fine, his Embassadors were commanded, to de∣clare War against them, except they drew off their Forces from the Siennois, and disbanded those Officers. But lest Galeatius should have been as good as his word, Peter Gambacorta Lord of Pisa, a Friend both to him and to the Florentines, interposed, and undertook to make up the business. In the mean time Ʋrban dy'd at Rome in the eleventh year and eighth month of his unhappy Pontificate; and was buried in S. Pe∣ter's Church, where there was but little mourning for him, as being a rustical, and an inexorable Man. His Sepulchre or Tomb is yet to be seen with a very rude, and silly Inscription upon it.

BONIFACE IX.

BONIFACE the Ninth, a Neapolitan, formerly called Pe∣ter Tomacello, was made Pope at Rome by general consent of the Cardinals, in the year 1389. Who though he were not above thirty years old, when he enter'd upon the Pope∣dom, yet he lived so strictly at that florid Age, and in those wicked times, that no act of Lust, or inordinate pleasure could be charged up∣on him; for he seemed to have changed his Youth into Age. And then he was a Person of such courage and conduct, that he was the first who invested all the Power of Rome in the Pope alone, so that he crea∣ted Magistrates, as he pleased, and fortified the Castle of S. Angelo, which is situate near the Tiber as you go to the Vatican, and set guards upon all the Bridges cross the Tiber. Whilst this Boniface IX. was in the Chair, Galeatius made War upon the Florentines and Bolognians, by his Generals, John Ʋbaldin and Lantedescus Petramala, who in the Valley of Arno plunder'd and spoil'd all far and near. James Vermes

likewise enter'd the Territories of Bolognia upon his own account, and did the City great damage. The Florentines in the mean time, to pre∣vent with their utmost, these evils, sent Jown Hawkwood, Charles, Son to Bernabos, and Antony Scala with four thousand Horse, and two thou∣sand Foot, to aid the Bolognian▪ their friends and Allies: And sollici∣ted Stephen Duke of Bavaria (to whom Francis the younger was fled fot refuge) both by Letters and Messengers to come and assist 'em. Beside they hired James Earl of Armeniac for a great deal of Money, to come down into Italy against Viconti, and divert him from their borders, to defend his own. Francis the younger also, at their Intrea∣ty, disguising himself, and favoured by the Venetians, got into Padua, and took the City before any body was aware. The Duke of Bava∣ria follow'd him at the heels, and entering the Town, storm'd the Castle without any intermission. And the Veroneses, startled at this turn of Affairs, beat out the Guards of the Viconti, and invited An∣tony Scala to their side, who just about that time died in Tuscany, lea∣ving one onely Child, a little Boy. Which when they heard, they re∣pented of what they had done, and immediately sent for Ʋgulot Blan∣cardus, who was with Galeatius's Army in Cremona, having begg'd par∣don for their Crime, and paid some thousands of pounds to atone for their Error. Blaneard being let in, could not keep the Soldiers from sacking the wealthy City, but the Wife of Galeatius out of pity for the Noble Town after three days stay'd any further plundering. The Duke of Bavaria now complaining that the Subsidies promised him by the Florentines were not fairly paid him, raised the Siege of the Castle at Padua and went into Germany. Thereupon the Florentines, having procured passage for their Troops of Albert d' Este, who was fallen out with Galeatius a good while before, sent John Hawkwood to assist young Carrara; by whose Valour and skill the Castle of Padua was quickly brought to surrender. So that the Forces of Galeatius who were sent for their relief retired into the Country of Vicenza. By this time the Earl of Armagnac, a Pensioner of the Florentines, was arriv'd in Italy by the way of Turin, with twenty thousand Horse, and having taken Castellaccio by storm, he gave the plunder to his Soldiers. To oppose this Enemy Galeatius was necessitated to recall his men out of the Country of Vicenza: while the Milaneses who were posted in the Su∣burbs, of Alexandria were furiously set upon by those of Armagnac with∣out any order; but the Italians drew out the Battel so long, fighting for some time before the Gates, till their men (whom they had sent about, to fall upon their Enemy in the Reer) could have time to sur∣prise 'em. While the fight continued, they came about. So that the Enemy was attaqu'd in the Reer, Front and Flank, in such a dreadful manner (for the Towns-People also aided them) that they were almost all of 'em kill'd, before they were sensible what danger they were in. The Earl of Armagnac himself, General of this great Army, was taken, but died immediately of a wound that he receiv'd. Besides him there were taken Rainardus Lanfigliatius, and John Riccio, two Florentine Knights, who had guided the Earl into Italy. Galeatius grown confi∣dent by this Victory, sent part of his Foces against Hawkwood, who had pass'd the Rivers Adige, and Mencio, to join Armagnac; upon notice where∣of Hawkwood hasted toward Padua; but lost a great many men by the

way, who were drown'd in the Seluces that the Country people had made to hinder their retreat. But the Florentines being hard put to it by James Vermes, who was sent thither by Galeatius with twelve thousand Horse and four thousand Foot, called back Hawkwood, who overcame their Enemies by stratagem, whom he was not able to conquer in the open field. In the mean time a Peace was made at Genoa upon good conditions, between Galeatius and the Florentines by the mediation of Pope Boniface and Antony Adurno General of the Genoeses. But one flame was no sooner quench'd, but another broke out. For Francis di Vico Prefect of the City got Viterbo out of the Popes hands by trea∣chery; And Peter Gambacurta, Lord of Pisa, and his Sons, was kill'd by James his Secretary, and Counsellor, who strait usurp'd his Seigniory. At this time also upon the death of Albert d' Este, one Azzo of the same Family, who had been banish'd a long time, attempted to be restor'd to his Country by the Power of the Counts of Cunie. But the Guar∣dians of young Nicolas, Son of Albert, took up Arms, and driving Ac∣cius from Ferrara, promised the Towns of Lugo and Monselice to John Cunio, if he would kill Azzo. But he shewed 'em a trick for it, and only kill'd a man very like him; upon which the Towns being surren∣der'd to him, he produced the real Azzo. Alberic his Progenitor would never have done such an Act; to whom the Italians owe more than to all the Generals of his Age. For he first taught the Italians the Art of War (when they had been long unaccustomed to Arms) how to de∣fend themselves from domestick as well as forein Enemies. For before his time, if the Italians had any War either among themselves or against the Barbarians, they were forced to desire the aid of forein Soldiers. But he raised such a mighty Army in a short space under the Banner of St. George, that he drave the Britains (who had ruined our Country, and the Castles belonging to the Church) together with the Germans, English and all other Invaders, out of Italy. From him arose the Brac∣ceschi and Sforceschi, by whom Italy gain'd so much Glory, that other Nations either were content to be quiet for fear, or if they attempted to invade us, 'twas at the cost of their lives. In the mean time Cle∣ment VII. the Anti-Pope died, and in his place the Cardinals, who join'd in the present Schism, put up Peter Luna, then called Benedict XIII. at Avignion. At that time also Winceslaus, Son to Charles the Emperor, succeeded him; from whom John Galeatius Viconti received the Title of Duke of Milan by his Embassador Peter Philargi Arch-Bishop of Milan, who afterward got the Papacy, and was called Alexander the Fifth. But Galeatius when John Hawkwood was dead and buried at Florence, (whom the Florentines made use of as their chief Commander in their Wars) He resov'd to send Albrick with an Army into Tuscany, to keep the Florentines in awe, who then made War upon Appiax Lord of Pisa. There were in that Army Paul Ʋrsin, Ceculino, Brolia, Brandelino, Paul Sabello, Luke Canali, great Captains; who going with joint-forces and Counsels to besiege Florence, pitched their Camp near the Carthusian Monastery; from whence they continually infested the City of Florence and all the Country about it, with frequent inrodes, and filled all places with slaughter, rapine, and fire, Anno Dom. 1397. At which time Bo∣niface went to Perugia, to procure a reconciliation between the Nobility and Commonalty, there. But the Commonalty, even in the Popes pre∣sence,

took up Arms against their Promise, and kill'd eighty of the Nobles, and then made Biordo, and Nichilotto, who were admitted into the City as heads of their Faction, chief Lords of all. The Pope was angry at that, and went to Assisi, from whence he sent Agents to Galeatius, to desire him, that he cease to attempt Mantua, which he then besieged by Land and Water, having sent for Albrick Barbianus into that Coun∣try to assist in the War. But the Florentines and the Venetians being bound as Allies to aid Mantua, they sent a good Army under the con∣duct of Charles Malatesta, (Cousin to the Duke of Mantuan) who defeat∣ed Galeatius's forces at Governo. At that time the Florentines had a de∣sign to fall upon the Pisans, but the Earls of Puppio and Balono, and the Ʋbertine Rebels, who threaten'd destruction to the City of Florence, if they stirred a foot against the Pisans, diverted them from it. But not long after James Appian died, and his Son Gerard succeeded him, who when he could not keep Pisa in subjection, by reason of the Tumults which the Florentines raised in it, he sold the City to Galeatius Viconti, in the year 1399. keeping onely one Town for him and his, called Piumbino. At Perugia Biordus, being slain by the contrivance of Lantedescus, the Perugians endeavour'd to assert their Liberty: And when Ʋgolin Trinci of Fuligno, the Popes Vicar there, endeavour'd in his name to bring Perugia into the Churches Patrimony, the Citizens were angry, and surrender'd themselves to Galeatius; who two months after got posses∣sion also of Bologna and Lucca by a wile. Hence was the fear of the Florentines so encreased, that they gave out, that they and their Liberty were all lost, unless Galeatius were taken off. The Year of Jubilee ap∣proaching, the Pope was moved by Embassadors from Rome to leave Assisi and reside with them; which though he was very willing to do, yet he concealed his desire, and told 'em, he would not; because, he said, they denied to have Senators chosen out of forein Nobility according to the Custom and Orders of former Popes; and because they had chosen Con∣servators of the Chamber on their own head: Men not fit for the Em∣ployment, who gave too much Licence to the Banderesii. Then the Romans, to gratifie the Pope, remov'd the Banderesii, and admitted of Malatesta Son to Pandulphus, of Pesaro, a learned Man, as Senator, in the Popes Name, and furnish'd Boniface with Money to go to Rome. When he was come into the City, he fortified S. Angelo (as I told you) with Walls and Turrets, and made himself by degrees Master of the whole place. After that, in the year 1400. the Jubilee was kept, and a great multitude of People stock'd to Rome for Devotion, and then the Flo∣rentines, being willing to be rid of Galeatius, invited Robert Duke of Bavaria (whom the Electors of the Empire having deposed Wenceslaus, of Bohemia for his sloth, had chosen Emperor) to come into Italy upon condition, that he should not have the promised reward, till he was ad∣vanc'd as far as the Dutchy of Millain. But when he was come to Bre∣scia, near the Lago di Grada, and had receiv'd part of the Money, he engaged with Galeatius, and losing the day, fled to Trent. The Vene∣tians and Florentines promised him great things to keep him from going back into Germany, but all would not do. At that time Boniface, whe∣ther out of fear of the Power of the Viconti, or out of covetousness to enlarge the Churches Patrimony, was the first that imposed Annates, or yearly payments upon Ecclesiastical Benefices, upon this condition,

that whoever got a Benefice, should pay half an years Revenue into the Apostolical Treasury. Yet there are those who attribute this Inven∣tion to John XXII. Now all Countreys admitted of this usage, except the English, who granted it onely in case of Bishopricks, but not in other Benefices. Being thus strengthened with Money, and choosing Magistrates as he pleased, both in the City and all over the Church Dominions, the Pope restored Ladislaus a Youth, Son to Charles King of Naples into his Fathers Kingdom, which was usurp'd by such as sided at that time with Lewis of Anjou. And to do it the more easily and honourably he abolish'd that deprivation of Charles, which Ʋrban had promulged at Nocera, and sent Cardinal Florentino to Cajeta (which was the onely place, that had continu'd Loyal) to crown the Youth there where he had been so loyally preserv'd. Galeatius thus rid of the Emperor, sent his Army under the command of Albrick against John Bentivoglio, who had turn'd out the Garison, and made himself Master of Bologna. At this time Francis Gonzaga fought in Galeatius's Army (for they two were friends again) as also Pandulphus Malatesta, Charle's Brother, and Ottobon Rossi of Parma. The names of these Men terrified the Florentines so, that they sent Bernardo their General to assist the Bolognians their Allies; which so encourag'd the Bolognians, that they engaged the Enemy before their Walls; but had the worst, and lost all their Horse, as also Bernardo, who was kill'd in the fight. James Car∣rara was taken, but preserv'd at the request of Francis Gonzaga. Ben∣tivoglio fled with a small number into the City; which whilst he stout∣ly defended, he fell into an Ambuscade where he was kill'd, the Ene∣my not being able to take him alive; so that now Galeatius easily be∣came Master of Bologna, and struck great terrour into the Florentines, threatning suddenly to turn all the force of his Arms upon them: But not long after he died at Marignan of a Fever, Anno Dom. 1402. whose death, long wish'd for by the Florentines, freed them from many fears, and was presignified by a Comet which appear'd some time before. Up∣on this many Usurpers arose, either those who were chief in their Cities or who had command among the Soldiery, by corrupting the Garisons, seiz'd their several Towns; there being now no one Man of Authority and Power to correct their ambitions and excesses, infinite mischiefs hap∣ned. That fatal Sedition too of the Guelphs and Gibellins was renew'd, which ran through Italy two hundred years and above, and raised such civil Wars among the several Cities, that they fought till they had al∣most destroy'd each other. Ʋgolinus Cavalcabos, having vanquish'd the Gibellins, was Lord of Cremona: whilst Otho the third got Parma, ex∣pelling the Rossi. The Soardi seiz'd Bergamo, the Rusconii took Como, the Vignati possess'd themselves of Lodi, and Fazino Cane an excellent General made himself Master of Vercelli, Alessandria, and many other Towns thereabout. I omit others, who having been expell'd by Ga∣leatius, then were in some hopes of recovering their usurped Domini∣ons: especially William Scala, and Charles Viconti, Son to Bernabos, who sollicited all the Princes and People to revolt. Upon this account Pi∣ras Ordelaphus was banish'd his Country and got possession of Forli; and Albrick Earl of Cuni, would have reduced Faenza, then brought to extremity, if he had not been sent for in haste by Ladislaus, by the Popes advice, and made Great Constable of Naples. The Pope had sent his

Brother also thither with a competenr Army, to assist the King; but he being expelled by the Neapolitans moved toward Perugia, and soon made that City subject to the Pope. Baltesar Cassa also a Neapolitan Cardinal of S. Eustachius, compell'd the Bolognians to return to the Church-party, after he had besieged them for some time; in which expedition Bra∣chius Montonius led the Church-forces, as being a Person well skill'd in Military Affairs, and left for that reason in Romagna by Albrick. For he had fought under him from his youth, and been a Commander, as had Sfortia, who was born in Cotignola a Town of Romagna. By whose valour and prowess the Militia of Italy so improved, that whoever wanted a Commander, would make use of one of them. Hence those Military Factions so increased that all the troubles of Italy for sixty years might be imputed to one of them. For he, that was op∣press'd by the Brachians, immediately hired the Sfortians to revenge his quarrel. But Albrick (from whom as from the Trojan Horse so many Generals did come) made Naples yield to Ladislaus, after a long Siege. At which Victory all the Princes of the Kingdom and all the Cities surrender'd themselves to the King. But Ladislaus, over desirous of enlarging his Kingly power, before he had laid a good foundation in Naples, was sent for into Hungary, to accept of that Kingdom by he∣reditary right; and in order thereunto sent over his Forces. But whilst he was besieging Zara, his Friends sent him word, that the Neapolitans were like to revolt; wherefore having taken Zara, and sold it to the Venetians, he return'd to Naples; and calling back Albrick out of Ro∣magna, he deposed all the Nobles, and banish'd those that refused to obey him. But he was very severe upon the Family of Sanseverino, and put the chiefest of them to death. Boniface being troubled at such a tedious confusion of Affairs, at length died of a Pleurisie, in the fourteenth year and the ninth month of his Pontificate, Anno Dom. 1404. He was bu∣ried at S. Peters in a Marble Tomb, of Mosaic work, still to be seen with his Coat of Arms: which shews also that he built much in S. Angelo, the Capitol, and the Vatican. Nor had any thing been wanting to the glory of this Pope, if he had not been too partial to his Relations: Si∣mony being often committed, by reason that his Brethren and Friends, who came to Rome in great multitudes to get Money, ask'd for every thing that fell in his gift, without any reason. As for Indulgencies, and those plenary too, they were sold about at such a rate, that the Autho∣rity of the Keys and the Popes Bulls was brought into contempt. Bo∣niface indeed endeavour'd to amend these things, but was forced by the importunity of his Friends to let it alone. And for this reason I think it would go better with the Church of God, if Popes would not mind their kindred, or at least not too much, but consult the good and honour of the Papacy rather than promote the interest of flesh and blood. Especially at that time, when Tamberlain, who conquer'd the Turks, and led their Emperor in Chains along with him, was dead, and had left all the Armenians, Persians, Egyptians, and Assyrians with∣out Governors: so that the Christians might easily have recover'd Je∣rusalem and the Holy Sepulchre. But his care was plac'd nearer home, for he persecuted the Albi, [Bianchi or Whites] that would have introduced a new sort of Superstition under his Pontificate, of whom I heard my Father (who saw the Man) say, that there was a

certain Priest who came down from the Alps into Italy the year afore the Jubilee, with a great many after him: and being clothed in white Cloth, pretended so much modesty, that every body look'd upon him as a Saint. So that this Fellow coming into Italy drew a great number of Men and Women over to his Opinion in a short time. And these People at Night, lay, Men or Women, Pesants or Citizens, Servants or Freemen, promiscuously together cover'd with their white Robes, like so many Sheep. They feasted in the publick Streets, and strove who should bring the best provisions. The Priest himself carried a Cruci∣fix, which, he said wept for the sins of Mankind; and as often as it did so, the people set up a clamour and begg'd pardon of God. They sang the Lauds, or Praises of the Blessed Virgin, going along and standing still, in Hymns made for that purpose. But as he came from Piedmont and that way, into Romagna, Tuscany, and Millain, the Opi∣nion of his sanctity was advanced, whereby he brought over not only the rude and unlearn'd Commonalty, but even great Men and Bishops of several Cities. At Viterbo, being tired with travelling, he tarried with the multitude, and from thence, said, he would come to Rome, to visit the holy Places, and Bodies of the Saints. But Boniface fear∣ing him to be a Cheat, and thinking, as he said, that the superstitious Knave had a mind to get the Popedom by the assistance of that Gang about him, he sent Soldiers to meet him, and bring him to Rome. Which done, some write, that his knavery was detected by Fortune, and that he was deservedly burnt alive; but others say the Man was guiltless, and that it was onely a trick of the Pope to raise that re∣port of him, whereas he put him to death out of envy. Which is true, God knows: But this is certain, that after so great a conflux of people caused partly by this and partly by the Jubilee, a number of Men died of the Plague. But amidst all the evils wherewith Italy was afflicted, we received one Benefit. For Chrysoloras Byzantius brought the Greek Learning into our Country, which had been neglected in Italy for four hundred years. Hence came the Greek and Latin Schools, where Guarinus, Victorinus, Philielphus, Ambrose the Monk, Leonard and Charles of Arezzo, and many more were educated, by the emulation of who many Wits were excited to laudable Studies.

INNOCENT VII.

INNOCENT the Seventh, of Sulmona, before named Cosmo, Cardinal-Priest of Santa Croce, was made Pope at Rome, when all Italy was in an uproar. For John Galeati∣us being dead, and leaving two Sons but young, all Italy betook themselves to Arms. John Maria, the elder Son got the Dutchy of Millain; and Philip Maria, the younger, made himself Lord of Pa∣via with ease, as lawful Earl of it. The other Cities, to the number of twenty five revolted from the Viconti. Paul Guiniffius, a Citizen of Lucca, usurped the Dominion of his Country; Francis Carrara now that General was gone off, whose Arms he exceedingly fear'd) that

he might enlarge his Territories, sent Embassadours to Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, and Cremona, to sollicite the Guelphs to be on his side. But when he saw William Scala and Charles Viconti (who desired to govern their own Cities) could hinder his attempts, he promised William the Signiory of Verona, and that of Millain to Charles, of whom he bor∣rowed thirty thousand pounds. So he restored William to his Coun∣try; but he soon after was poison'd, and then Verona fell again to Fran∣cis. He would have serv'd Charles the same trick, when he was urgent with him, either to perform his promise or to pay the money he had lent him. He also advised Francis Gonzaga by Letter to come over to his side, and embrace his Alliance; and if he would not, that he would look upon him as an Enemy, and give him reason ere long to re∣pent of his obstinacy. And that, he said, was easie; because he ha∣ving gotten Verona, which border'd upon Mantoua, he should shortly compass Brescia too, and so teaze the Mantoueses as he pleased. Francis resolv'd to say nothing in answer to him, till he heard what the Vene∣tian Embassadors said, whom he understood to be upon the way com∣ing to him. For the Venetians suspecting the power of the Carraresi, took Vincenza into their protection by a free surrender of the Citizens, who fear'd Francis's strength; and would rather be under any Lord than one of Padua▪ for there was a mortal hatred between the Padu∣ans and those of Vincenza. So then, the Venetians admonish'd Francis Carrara, that he should not meddle with those of Vincenza who were their Tributaries: and that he would raise the Siege from Cologna, which they accounted within their Dominions; if not, that the Venetians would revenge their quarrels. Francis reply'd, that he admired at the impudence of the Venetians, who though they have no right or claim to any thing upon the Continent, yet would prescribe Laws to them who had just Titles. He therefore bad 'em go and confine themselves within their Bays, and Fens, and let them alone to govern the several Cities, who had derived a right to it from their Forefathers. This enraged the Venetians, who thereupon sent instructions to their Embas∣sadors, then upon the Road, to make a League with Francis Gonzaga; and choose him General of their Forces, with an honourable yearly sti∣pend. And Francis (when the League was made) thought it best to make haste, because he heard the Enemy had gotten Cologna, and rais∣ing a great Army, attaqued the Veroneses on that side, that lies toward Mantoua. The Venetians from Vincenza did the same. Which so terri∣fied the Veroneses, that having no hopes of help they surrender'd. For the Citizens hated Francis Carrara, for having poison'd William Scala, and imprison'd his Sons, after he had gotten Verona by a Wile. But as the Army enter'd the City, keeping their exact Order, for fear of some stratagem of the Enemy, James Carrara, who had commanded the Gari∣son, ran away with some few Soldiers to Hostia. But as he cross'd the Poe, he was taken Prisoner and sent to Venice. Now the Venetians ha∣ving fortified Verona as well as they could, march'd thence with all their Forces to Padua, which they besieged, though it were fenced with very high Walls, and a deep Ditch, and garison'd with stout Men: and after some months having block'd up the Avenues for provision, they had it yielded to them. Francis was fled into the Castle, with his Sons and Nephews: but the Venetians took that too not long after by

surrender of the Soldiers within, who were ready to starve. But Fran∣cis being taken and sent to Venice was put to death along with his Bro∣ther. And this was the end of him, who indulged his own lust of ru∣ling so much, that he contemn'd Peace, and would get all things by force of Arms. But this was not the end of our misfortunes. For, ei∣ther by the neglect of Popes (who used to procure Peace either by In∣terdictions, Menaces, or force) or rather by means of the Schism (un∣der which the Church of God did at that time labour) it was come to that pass, that every base Usurper, after the death of John Galeatius, would venture upon any mischievous Design. And though Innocent, whilst he was Cardinal, used to blame the negligence and timorousness of former Popes, saying, their sloth was the cause, that the Schism, which was the bane of the Church of Rome and of all Christendom, was not rooted out. Yet when himself had gotten the Popedom, he follow'd Ʋrbans and Bonifaces steps in several things, which he had carp'd at in them when he was a private person: and not onely did not what he had before commended, but took it very ill if any one mention'd it to him. Beside he was so furi∣ous in his Administration of the Government, that once, when the Romans desired to have their Liberty restored, and that the Capitol, Ponte Molle, and S. Angelo might be put into their hands, and also were urgent with him to extirpate the Schisms (which had been so destructive, and of such ill example) out of the Church, and that he would seek the Peace of Christendom (since the King of France promised to assist him in it, and Peter Luna the Anti-Pope was not against so good a work) the Pope e'en sent the Romans themselves to Lewis, his Nephew, who lay at the Hospital of the Holy Ghost in the Stone-Way, as to an Executioner. For eleven of these publick-spirited Citizens were presently put to death, and thrown out at the Windows; for that he said, was the onely way to remove Schism and Sedition. The People of Rome were so incens'd at this cruel usage, that they sent for Ladislaus King of Naples, and took up Arms to revenge themselves of Lewis. But the Pope, to avoid the fury of the People took Lewis along with him and ran away to Viterbo. Whereupon the People, seeing they could not satisfie their wrath upon the Author of the Villany, they turn'd their indignation upon the Cour∣tiers, and plunder'd them of all they had. Yet some, they say, were preserv'd in the Houses of several Roman Cardinals, who with much ado, did make a shift to protect those that fled to 'em, by the assistance of their Clients. Then the Romans having taken the Capitol, and Pon∣te Molle, they attempted S. Angelo; but in vain, though they were as∣sisted by John Columna Earl of Troja, Gentilis Monteranus, Earl of Car∣rara, great Commanders under King Ladislaus. But when Paul Ʋrsin came upon them by order of the Pope, with Mostarda and Cecchalino, they routed John Columna and Ladislaus's Men that were left, in a place called Neros Meads. This was a great damage to the Romans; for their Men and Cattel were driven away; and therefore when their anger was over, they became friends with the Pope, and desired him to return home to the City. For he was naturally courteous, and affable, learn∣ed in the civil and Canon Law, and well skill'd in the Art of Per∣swasion. When therefore things were thus composed, he came to Rome, and made more Cardinals, among which were Angelus Carrara, a Venetian, Cardinal of S. Mark, after called Gregory XII. Peter Philar∣di,

a Candiot, Cardinal of the Twelve Apostles, afterward Alexander and Otho Columna, Cardinal of S. George, after called Martin V. Thus ha∣ving setled the Popedom he created Lewis, his Nephew Marquis of Marca d' Ancona and Prince of Fermo: but he himself died a little after at Rome in the second year of his Pontificate; and was buried in S. Pe∣ters in a Chappel that was formerly dedicated to the Popes (which Nicolas V. afterward repair'd) and his Tomb bears this Inscription; Innocentio VII. Pontifici Maximo cum neglecti ejus Sepulchri memoria interi∣isset, Nicolas V. Pontifex Maximus restitui curavit. In the mean time the Italians wanted a true Pope and a good Emperor, and therefore every one did what they pleased. For Cabrinus Fundulus, of whom Charles Ca¦valcabos made great use both in War and Peace, being puffed up with hopes of being sole Governour (because all Magistrates and Lieutenants of Castles obey'd him as much as Charles) he murther'd Charles, with his Brethren and Kindred at Machasturma, ten miles from Cremona as he was coming back from Lodi. From thence he fled with a few Men to Cremona, before the thing was known in the City; and having gotten possession of the Fort and all the Gates, he went into the Market all in Arms, and whomsoever he saw that was likely to withstand his Designs, he banish'd or put to Death. But to make himself absolute he omitted no kind of cruelty. Nor could the great Men of Milan hinder this, being themselves embroil'd by the different Designs of Gu∣cegaldo Governour of Genoa, who attempted to bring Milan to subje∣ction to the French King, and of Facino Cane an excellent Commander, who strove to conserve it in the hands of the Heir John Maria Visconte. Now also Otho III. Lord of Parma was enticed upon pretence of treat∣ing with him, by Nicolas d' Este, to Rubera a Castle of his, where at the command of Nicolas he was kill'd by Sforza Cotignola: upon whose death, Nicolas immediately got Reggio and Parma by surrender of the Citizens, who hated the name of Otho. But Ladislaus, having been possess'd of Rome, as I said before, and Perugia being put into his hands, which had been brought low by the Forces of Braccio, he led his Army into Tuscany: which by the industry and conduct of Malatesta of Pe∣saro was so bravely defended, that Ladislaus was beaten thence and re∣treated into his own Kingdom, having received more damage than he had done his Enemies. But the Florentines being deliver'd from such an Enemy turn'd their Arms toward the Pisanes and after a long Siege took Pisa, under the conduct of Tartaglia and Sforza in the year 1406.

GREGORY XII.

THE Schism continuing still in the Church, to the decay of Christianity, one Pope being chosen at Rome, and another at Avignion, the Princes of France, to wit, the Dukes of Berry, Burgundy, and Orleans (who at that time governed all France, during the Kings indisposition) took pity on the Church at last, and came to Avignion to Peter Luna, who was called Benedict XIII.

and desired him to commiserate the Church now falling to ruin, though it were to relinquish the Pontificate: he having promised so to do up∣on Oath in the Conclave, when he was made Pope. And they engaged the other Pope, that was then made at Rome after Innocents death, should do the same. For these Princes and those of Italy, who both were hearty Lovers of Christianity, had agreed, that those two which strove for the Pontificate, of whom one was of the French and the other of the Italian faction, should be put by, and some one afterward elected, that might be the common Father and Pope of all Nations. Bene∣dict reply'd, That he should grievously offend God, if he forsook the Church of God, whose Patron and publick Father he was made by universal consent of all good Men, and that he would not hold that Seat precariously to which he had been so fairly chosen. As to what they said concerning extirpating the Schism and treating of Unity, he profess'd, it pleased him very much, so it were debated in a free place, and that no man might lie under any force from either Party. Yet one thing he promised 'em, and confirmed it with an Oath, that if the Schism could not be composed by any other means, that then he would wholly lay down the Pontifical Dignity, if the other An∣ti-Pope would do so at the same time. Thereupon the Princes be∣gan to consult among themselves, how they should bring over Bene∣dict to their Opinion. But he fearing their Consults and conferences, furnish'd the Papal Palais with Arms and all necessary provisions; and there he stay'd and was besieged for some months, till at last he got Galleys ready for his escape, and sailed down the Rosne into Catalonia, where he was born. There are indeed, who write that the Princes of France did make that attempt upon Benedict by the perswasion of French Cardinals, who hated him, because he was not of their Nation. For when they could not agree concerning the choice of a French Pope after Clement's death, they elected him (after a long Debate) as a Person of great Virtue and Devotion; but he often admonishing them to live soberly and holily, and forbidding Simony upon severe penalties, they grew weary of his strictness, and notwithstanding his love to Christia∣nity, instigated the French Princes against him. Christianity was in all Countreys, but most of all in France, they met at S. Peters in the Va∣tican, where each of 'em took an Oath, and bound it with the greatest imprecations, that they would relinquish the Pontificate, whosoever of 'em happen'd to be elected to that great Dignity, upon condition that the Anti-Pope would do the same. They came to this resolution, to satisfie the French Nation, who having been so foolish to make an An∣ti-Pope, had brought in a custom, from which they could not recede without dishonour, unless the Italians did so too: and not onely so, but to comply with Benedict's judgment, who said the Church could never be healed but by that means onely: But if both were deposed, one true Pope might be elected by consent of all the Cardinals there, to whom all Kings and Princes should pay obedience. Upon this con∣dition Angelus Corarius a Venetian, Cardinal of S. Marks (who, as I told you, was called Gregory XII.) was chosen at Rome Novem. 2. 1406. and immediately in writing, by the hands of Notaries and before wit∣ness confirm'd what he had promised before his Pontificate, and set his hand to it. But when they came to discourse about a place, where

they might both meet without danger, and could not agree, they were esteemed by both Assemblies of Cardinals no better than Shufflers, and Promise-breakers. Nevertheless the Cardinals, some from Rome and some from Avignion, met at Pisa, and there with one accord they de∣prived Benedict and Gregory of their Pontifical Honour, and that by the consent of all Nations, except the hither part of Spain, the King of Scot∣land, and the Earl of Armagnac who favour'd Benedict. Then they proceeded to elect a new Pope, who might govern the Church of God without Sedition, and the result was, the creating of Gregory being ab∣sent, and this Election depending, Rome was all up in Arms. For La∣dislaus the King had taken Ostia, and put his Land and Sea-forces into it, and thereby so harass'd the Romans with inroads, that he forc'd them to sue for Peace, and to receive him honourably into the City as their Governour, where he changed their civil Officers, fortified according to his own mind their Gates and Walls. But Paul Ʋrsin, General of the Church-forces came upon him, they fought stoutly in the Septimiano near S. James's, and lost a great many Men on each side. For the King kept his Men on the farther side of Tiber, supposing that he should be the safer in that place, by reason of his Naval Forces whom he had brought from Ostia to Rome. But at last yielding to rather than flying from the Ʋrsin Faction, which increased every day, he went to Naples; his Par∣ty being very much weaken'd by a Victory obtain'd before he came thi∣ther over the Columneses, that fought under John Columna, Baptista Sabel∣lus, James Ʋrsin, and Nicolas Columna, who had taken S. Laurences Gate and got into the City. But when Paul Ʋrsin came up (as I told you) they were most of 'em taken and all vanquish'd. Two of them were put to death; one of which was Galeot a famous Norman Cavalier, and the other was called Richard Sanguineus, of a Noble and an ancient Fa∣mily. The rest were discharg'd upon condition, they would never fight for Ladislaus again. From these troubles at Rome there arose such a Dearth of all Provisions, that a Rubio of Wheat was sold for eighteen Florins, because the Cattel were all driven away, and the Husband∣men destroy'd, as is usual in the Wars.

ALEXANDER V.

ALEXANDER the Fifth of Candia, formerly called Peter, Frier of the Order of Minors, and Arch-Bishop of Millain; a Man famous for Holiness and Learning, was made Pope by consent of all the Cardinals that were at that time in the Pisan Assembly. So that Gregory fled as it were into Austria, and talk'd there of a General Council. But not thinking himself safe enough there, he went for Rimi∣ni and was splendidly receiv'd by Charles Malatesta: And Benedict ha∣ving a Council at Perpignan, fled to the Castle of Panischola, a very strong place, where he staid a good while for his better security. But though they were both deposed in the Council at Pisa, yet they created Car∣dinals like true Popes; especially Gregory; who whilst he tarried at Lucca made Gabriel Condelmero Cardinal by the consent of all the Cardi∣nals

that continu'd of his Party; which Gabriel was after elected Pope and called Eugenius IV. But I return to Alexander, who was an excel∣lent Man in the whole course of his life. He was of the Order of Mi∣nors from his youth, and took so much pains in his Studies at Paris both in Humanity and Divinity, that he soon became a publick Reader, and wrote very acutely and learnedly upon the Books of the Sentences. He was also reckon'd a great Orator and a great Preacher. And there∣fore he was sent for by John Galeatius, Duke of Millain, and made his chief Counsellor. After that, at Galeatius's request, he was made Bi∣shop of Vincenza, then translated to Novara, and last of all being made Arch-Bishop of Millain, he was created Cardinal of the Twelve Apostles by Innocent VII. From which step he rose to the Pontifical Dignity, and was deservedly stiled Alexander, because he might compare with any Prince for liberality and greatness of mind. For he was so munificent to the poor, and all that deserved his bounty, that in a short time he left himself nothing. That made him use to say in a joke, that he was a rich Bishop, a poor Cardinal, and a beggarly Pope. For he was free from that desire of getting which increaseth usually with a Mans Estate and his Age. But it is a Vice, that cannot be found among good Men that contemn the World: who the older they grow the less Viaticum or pro∣vision, they know, they shall want for their Journey, and therefore they restrain their Desires, bridle their Covetousness, and extinquish all e∣vil lusts. Nay Alexander was a Person of that Courage as to depose that powerful King Ladislaus, (who in the absence of several Popes had for a long time much spoil'd and harass'd the Church Dominions and taken some Towns by force) at Pisa in the Council there, by approbation of all that were present; and declared his Kingdom to belong to Lewis Duke of Anjou. But when the Council of Pisa brake up, the Pope went to Bologna, of which Baldesar Cossa, Cardinal of S. Eustachius, was Governour. Him Alexander confirm'd in his Office, because by his in∣dustry and conduct the Council was held at Pisa; and because he was a Man fit to oppose Usurpers or such as encroached upon the Church Revenues. Yet there was more of rusticity, boldness, and worldliness in him, than his profession required. He led a military Life, and his manners were Soldier-like, and he took the liberty of doing many things not fit to be named. But when Alexander was very sick and knew his death was very near, he exhorted the Cardinals that visited him to Con∣cord and Peace, and to defend the Honour of the Church: And swore by that Death, he was just now about to undergo, and by the Conscience of his well-acted Life, that he did not think or believe that any thing was Decreed in the Pisan Council but with all justice and integrity, without any deceit, or fraud. This said, and the People weeping that stood by, he repeated that saying of our Saviour with much ado, My peace I give unto you, my peace I leave with you; and immediately dy'd, in the eighth month of his Pontificate; and was buried at Bologna in the Church of the Friers Minors: in which year there was a Famine and a Plague.

JOHN XXIV.

JOHN the Twenty Fourth, a Noble Neapolitan, formerly called Cossa Baldesar, was chosen Pope at Bologna by general consent, though some say the Election was carried by force; because he was not only Legate of Bologna, but had Soldiers in the City and Country planted for the purpose, so that if he could not get it by fair means, he would by foul. However it was, it is most certain, that he was made Pope, and always aspired to that Dig∣nity. For when he was a Youth, and studied Civil Law at Bologna for some years, he took his Degree there (according to Custom) and then went to Rome. And being ask'd by some Friends whether he was going, he answer'd, To the Pontificate. When he came to Rome, he was entertain'd by Boniface IX. and made one of his Privy Chamber: Then he was made Cardinal of S. Eustachius's, and sent as Legate à La∣tere to Bologna, which he in a short space subjected to the Church; to∣gether with a great part of Romagna, beating aut some Usurpers and putting others to death. But after nine years, when he had enlarged the City of Bologna in a wonderful manner by a long Peace, and got∣ten a great deal of Money; Alexander died, and then he used Bribery, especially to the Cardinals, that Gregory had made, (who were yet poor) and so was made Pope. Thereupon he sent Agents to the Electors of the Empire, to desire of 'em, that they would choose Sigismund of Lu∣cenburg, King of Hungary and Bohemia, Emperor; as being a person very stout, and fit, as he said, for all brave Actions. For this was his way to get into Sigismunds's favour. And that succeeding according to his mind, he told 'em before-hand, that, whereas it had been order'd in an Assembly at Pisa, that a Council should be call'd at such a certain time, he would hold it at Rome, and no where else. And that all might have the freer access thither, he endeavour'd to settle Italy, especially that part near the Alps, in which the War did daily encrease by the in∣stigation of Fazinus Canis, who could not keep his mercenary Soldiers under his Command without employment. For he used to maintain them by rapine and plunder. At that juncture it happen'd, that the Pavians, whom Philip could not contain in awe by reason of his Mi∣nority, were grown factious, and took up Arms. Then the Gibellins, under the conduct of the Beccarian Family, brought Fazinus and his Army into the City, and were to have the Guelphs Estates for doing it. But Fazinus entering the Town with his Soldiers, spared neither one nor the other, but plunder'd both. And when the Gibellins complain'd, that their goods too were plunder'd against his Promise, he reply'd; The Gibellins, in their Persons, should be safe; but their Goods were Guelphs, which he would give as Spoil to the Soldiers, deriding the folly and covetousness of both Factions. When he went from thence, he left a good Garison both at the Gates and in the Fort, pretending to be Philips Protector till he grew of Age; and so went against Pandulphus Mala∣testa, where he teazed the Brescians and the Bergameses with frequent

inroads and ravagings; nor did he spare those of Cremona, at that time govern'd by Cabrinus Fundulus. During these transactions the King of Hungary who was going (as he pretended) to Rome freely to receive the Imperial Crown, sent twelve thousand Horse, and eight thousand Foot against the Venetians, and seizing Friuli, he set upon Treviso. Against this great Army the Venetians sent Charles Malatesta to keep them off, not so much by fighting as by protracting of the time. The Venetians had like also to have lost Verona the same year by treachery of some of the Citizens, who had more mind to ▪try what they could get by violence, than to preserve their Liberty. But those that were guilty were punish'd. and there was an end of that. Fazinus Canis died the same year, after which several persons conspiring together kill'd John Maria Duke of Millain, and took Bernabos's Son and Nephews in∣to the City. Then Philip, by the persuasions of his Friends, married Beatrice, Fazinus's Widow, who was very Rich, and had Authority with the Soldiers that had fought under her Husband, Fazinus. By this means he had all the Cities, that paid homage to Fazinus, presently sur∣render'd to him, and drew Carmignola, and Siccus Montagnanus (who had seditiously divided the Legion between them after Fazinus's death) to come to fight under his Colours, by the perswasions of Beatrice. Which two Commanders Philip made use of afterward, and by their assistance drave Bernabos's Son, Astorgius, out of Millain, but kill'd him at the taking of Monza. Things went thus in Millain and thereabouts, when John Francis Gonzaga, Son to Francis that was deceased, went with a competent Army of Horse and Foot to guard Bologna, at the command of Pope John, under whose Banner he then fought. For Ma∣latesta of Rimini, stipendiary to King Ladislaus, laid close Siege to the City at that time. He therefore, by the aid of the Bolognians, fought several sharp Battels with the Enemies; in which he had the better and defended the City most gloriously. The Winter following Pope John was invaded by Ladislaus, which made him remove from Rome to Florence, and thence to Bologna. Nor did he stay there long, but he went to Mantoua, where he was splendidly entertain'd by John Francis Gonzaga, whom he took along with him, at his departure thence, to∣gether with great part of his Forces to Lodi, whither he knew the King of Hungary would come. For he trusted much to that Prince, whose faithfulness and integrity he had such experience of in the Bo∣lognian Wars, though he had been tempted by Malatesta with gifts and promises to revolt to the Kings party. But after when the Pope and the King did not think themselves sufficiently safe at Lauden, they sent John Francis to Mantoua (whether they said they'd go) with all speed, to prepare for their coming and for the reception of such a multi∣tude. He went and quickly made all things ready, and then returned to Cremona, where he heard the Pope and the King by that time were arrived. After that he conducted them to Mantoua, where all the people came thronging out to meet them, and they were much more kindly receiv'd than was expected. Now in these several meetings at Lodi, Cremona, and Mantoua, it was consider'd, how they should remove La∣dislaus out of Campagna di Roma, Ombria, and Tuscany; for he had ta∣ken Rome and many other Towns belonging to the Church. They saw that Italy could not be freed from the distractions of War by any other

means, and therefore they thought it convenient to advise concerning a supply to carry on the Affair not at Mantoua, but Bologna, when they were come thither. But they had greater concerns still upon them. For John being urged to call a Council by consent of all Nations, for the removal of the Schism, immediately sent two Cardinals into Germany, to advise with the Princes of France and Germany and choose a conve∣nient place for a Council to be held at. Upon enquiry, Constance, a City within the Province of Mentze, seemed to be most commodious for the purpose. Thereupon they all went thither by a certain Day, according to Order; so likewise did Pope John himself, though some ad∣vised him to the contrary, because they told him they fear'd, if he went thither as Pope, he would return thence as a private person: and so it fell out. For going thither with certain Men, that were excellent in all sorts of Learning, he puzled the Germans so long with tedious Dis∣putations, that they could not tell what to Decree. But Sigismund came up, who gave every body leave to say what they pleased, and then great and grievous Crimes were laid to the Popes charge: upon which he went privately in disguise from Constance to Scaphusa, for fear some dangerous Plot might be contrived against him. Scaphusa was a City belonging to the Duke of Austria, whither several Cardinals also, that he had created, betook themselves. But they being called again by Authority of the Council, John fled from Scaphusa to Friburgh, design∣ing to go, if possibly he could with safety, to the Duke of Burgundy. But by the care of the Council, John was taken, and imprison'd near Constance in the Isle of S. Mark in the fourth year of his Pontificate, and the tenth month. Then the Council began to enquire the rea∣son of his flight, and choose several persons of great gravity and Learn∣ing as Delegates, to examine and weigh the Objections made against John, and make an orderly report of it to the Council. There were a∣bove forty Articles proved against him: of which some contain'd faults, which he was so habituated to, that he could not avoid them, and therefore they were judged contrary to the Faith; and some of them were likely to bring a scandal upon Christianity in general, if they were not condemned in him. Wherefore since they all agreed in the same Opinion, John who was deservedly and justly deposed, approved of their Sentence though pronounced against him. And thereupon he was presenty sent to Lewis the Bavarian, who was Gregory the 12th's Friend, to be kept in custody, till further Order from the Council. Accord∣ingly he was block'd up in the Castle of Haldeberg which was a very well fortified place, for three years, without any Chamberlain, or Servant to attend him, that was an Italian. All his keepers were Germans, with whom he was fain to talk by Nods and Signs, because he neither under∣stood the Teutonick Language, nor they the Italian. They say John was deposed by those very Men, and them alone, that were formerly his Friends. For those that were of Gregory and Benedict's Party were not yet come to the Council. These Men therefore, that they might make their Deprivation of him just and perfect, with one accord pub∣lish'd a Synodical Decree, wherein they affirm'd, that a general Council lawfully called was the Supream Authority next to Christ. (Grant but this fundamental Point and the Pope himself is inferiour to a Council.) Whereupon Gregory was forced, by the persuasions of the Emperor Si∣gismund,

to send some Person to the Council (because he would not go himself) to approve of their proceedings in his Name. So he sent Charles Malatesta, an excellent Man, who seeing them all agree, to make Gregory also lay down all claim to the Papacy, he stood forth be∣fore 'em all, and sitting down in a Chair that was made as stately as if Gregory himself had been there, he read the Instrument of Renunciation over and presently deposed Gregory: for which free act of his he was made Legate of Millain by all the Council. But this Person not long after dy'd at Recanati of grief (as some say) for his so sudden Depri∣vation before the time appointed. For he was clearly for deferring the business as long as he could, as placing some hope in delay. But he died before Martin came to be Pope, and was buried in the Church of Recanati. Now though two Popes were removed, there remained a third who gave 'em more trouble than the other two, and that was Pe∣ter Luna, called Benedict XIII. as I told you before. But to force him to resign, Sigismund went personally with some Agents of the Council to the Kings of England and France, and perswaded them for the sake of Christianity so much endanger'd by the Schism, to assist him, now that the other two had laid down, in the removal of Benedict; who an∣swering him to his mind, he went straight to Ferdinand King of Aragon, whose Subjects generally stood for Benedict, who agreed among other Articles, either to persuade Benedict to resign, or to cause his People to withdraw their subjection to him, (as Gregory and John had done in the Council) and to submit to the Council; But Benedict kept in his strong Castle, and would not comply, persisting that he was Christ's true Vi∣car, and that the City of Constance, (where Pope John had been forc'd even by his own Friends to exauctorate himself) was not a place of Freedom requisite for a General Council. The Spanish Nobility seeing Benedicts obstinacy, followed the Order of the Council, and came over to the rest. Now things were carried in the Council by the Suffrages of five Nations, Italy, France, Germany, Spain and England. And what∣soever was Decreed by their Votes, was confirm'd, and publish'd by a Beadle, publick Notary before the Court, as a general Act. By this Authority Benedict, when the matter had been bandied for some time, was deprived of the Popedom, the Nations that were of his side, being either absent or rejected; especially the Scots, and the Earl of Armag∣nac. In the same Council the Heresie of John Wickliffe was condemn∣ed; and two of his followers, to wit, John Hus, and Jerome, his disciple, as heads of the Heresie, were burnt: because they affirm'd, among other Errors, That Ecclesiastical Men ought to be poor, for that all People were offended at their great wealth and Luxury. Matters being thus composed, and mention made concerning Reforming the Church, and manners of the Clergy, they thought that could not be done whilst the Sea was vacant. Then they Discours'd about electing a new Pope, that the Decrees of that Council might have the more Authority. And in order to it, they resolv'd to choose six good Men out of every Na∣tion, who together with the Cardinals, should go into the Conclave and choose a new Pope. Novemb. 8. 1417. they went into the Con∣clave, and by consent of 32 Cardinals, and all the several Nations (con∣trary to the expectation of all Men in the presence of many of the Schis∣maticks) Otho Columna, a Nobleman of Rome, and Cardinal Deacon of

S. George was made Pope upon S. Martins day, Novem. 11. when the Sea had been without a true Pope for four years. And this was done so much to the satisfaction of all Men, that the joy was inexpressible. The Empe∣ror was so mightily pleased at it, that he went into the Conclave and gave 'em thanks (without any respect to his own Dignity) for choosing so good a Man, and one so fit to support Christianity which was almost decay'd. And then falling down prostrate before the Pope, he kiss'd his feet with great Veneration; whilst the Pope on the contrary em∣braced him, and valued him as a Brother, and gave him thanks, that by his means and industry Peace was restored once more to the Church of God. But the reason why he would be called Pope Martin was, be∣cause the Election was upon S. Martins day. Whilst these things were transacted at Constance, Ladislaus dying as he was going against the Flo∣rentines, the cry at Rome was, To Arms, and for Liberty. Whereupon Peter Mattheucii was forced against his Will to assume the Government of the City, though afterward he relinquish'd the Office, when he un∣derstood that a Legate whom Pope John had design'd to send thither, would shortly come with a Senator of Bologna. As soon as they were come, they put Paul Palonius, and John Cincius, two seditious Citizens, to death. The year following Brachius Montonius came with an Army to Rome, and getting into the City, began to storm the Castle S. An∣gelo, which was defended by a strong Garison of Queen Joans; who succeeded her Brother Ladislaus in the Kingdom. But when Sfortia, the Queens General, came up, he not onely raised the Siege, but beat Brachius out of the City, the Romans siding with neither Party. John Columna was kill'd in that fight by a private Soldier, that formerly had fought under Paul Ʋrsin, whom Lewis Columna, in Brachius's Army, had formerly kill'd at Fuligno. Now the Soldier had a mind to kill Lewis, to revenge Pauls death, but John who was innocent died for it as he was going to save Lewis. Whilst Rome was in this tempestuous condi∣tion, rowing to and fro, it conceived at length some hope of quiet, upon Martin's being chosen.

MARTIN V.

MARTIN the Fifth, a Roman, formerly called Otho Colum∣na, was made Pope in the Council, by the general consent of all the Nations and Cardinals, at a time when he as well as the Church was in a declining condition. For he had been well educated by his Parents care from his Childhood, and when he grew up, he studied the Canon Law at Perugia, from whence he return'd to the City and for his integrity and learning was made Re∣ferendary by Pope Ʋrban VI. Which place he acquitted with so much humanity, justice, and mildness, that he was created Cardinal Deacon by Innocent VII. Nor did that make him forego his natural Disposi∣tion. For he was more courteous than before, and lent his assistance to all that wanted it, yet so, as not to meddle much in publick matters. So that when there were many Debates in the Council of Constance by

reason of the Factions, he took the middle way, and seemed to incline to neither Party, but always studied the general good: Being therefore beloved by the Emperor, the Cardinals, and indeed by all Men, he was chosen Pope, In which Office he was not idle, but active and careful, hearing, refuting, and approving; persuading, disuading, exhorting, or deterring those that came before him according to reason and the me∣rits of the Cause. For he was very accessible; and never denied a rea∣sonable request; besides that he was a Man of great prudence in De∣bates. For he would tell what ought to be done, as soon as a thing was proposed to him. He was short in his Speeches, and wary in his Actions, insomuch that people saw a thing effected before they could imagine he had thought of it. His Discourse was full of Sentences; nor did any word come from him so often, as [Justice:] frequently turning to his Attendants and Familiars, especially them that govern'd Cities and Provinces, and saying; Love Justice, ye that judg the Earth. Indeed the Church of God wanted such a Pope at that time, to sit at the Helm, and steer S. Peter's Boat (then batter'd with Waves of Schism and Sedition) into a safe Port. He therefore having obtained this great Dignity, and seeing the Hydras head which might grow out again and multiply, was still left; (that is, Benedict, formerly called Peter Luna, who kept with some few Cardinals and Prelates in a place that might be called the very Fort of Schism.) Whilst some People of Aragon were at a stand which way to incline, He, by approbation of the Council sent Alemannus Ademarius a very learned Man (whose Tomb is still to be seen in new S. Maries) a Florentine, and Cardinal of S. Eu∣sebius, as Legate à Latere into Aragon; to admonish Peter upon Eccle∣siastical Penalties and Censures to resign the Pontificate. Nay, even the Cardinals that were on Peter's side, when they heard this ultimate resolution of the Pope and Council, went to Peter and desired him, at last to remove all Schism out of the Church of God, with which Chri∣stendom had been for so many years afflicted; and told him, that John and Gregory had done the same, in order to save the Church from ruin. Peter gave 'em some slight answer, and told 'em he could not do it; but he would agree with Martin, if all were true which people said of his integrity and humanity: and bid 'em, let him alone to manage the business, and trouble themselves no more about it. But of the four Cardinals who went to him, two observing his obstinacy immediately revolted from him to Martin. And those two that continued on his side were presently counted Anti-Cardinals: one of which was a Car∣thusian, and the other called Julian Dobla. Upon this all Spain acknow∣ledged Martins Authority; and so did the Scots and those of Armagnac not long after. And so all Christendom, except one Peninsula, owned the Authority of Martin. This great Affair thus setled by the pains and industry of the Ecclesiastick and secular Princes, especially of Si∣gismund the Emperor, they began to talk of reforming the manners of both the Laiety and Clergy, which were debauched with too much Li∣cence. But because the Council of Constance had lasted already four years, to the great inconvenience of Prelates and their Churches, it was Martin's pleasure, and the Opinion of the Council, that weighty Affair should be deferred till some more seasonable opportunity, it being (he said) a work that would require much time and deliberation; because,

as Jerome says, every Country has its peculiar Manners, and Customs, which cannot be easily remov'd without great disturbance. Now be∣cause the Schism from a small beginning had lasted a long time to the great disadvantage of Christendom, upon notice that John XXIII. was esca∣ped out of custody, fearing lest he should call another Council, he publish'd a Decree concerning the calling of Councils, That from the end of the Council at Constance no other Council should be held within five years; and after that, within seven, and from thence it was drawn out to ten years, and was made a Law, That every ten years a General Council should be held in some convenient place, to treat of matters of Faith, and the common good of Christendom; In confirma∣tion whereof, by the approbation of the Council Martin publish'd his Bulls. But he abrogated all Decrees that were made during the Schism, before his Pontificate, except such as were made to promote faith or good manners. That all Men might know he intended to call a Coun∣cil, he publickly advised concerning a commodious place for it, and at last chose Pavia by general approbation, and gave out his Breves to this purpose:

Martin, Bishop, and Servant of Gods Servants (for the fu∣ture remembrance of the thing) being desirous to have Obedience paid to the Decree of this General Council, upon a Debate had con∣cerning a Place where the next Council shall be holden, we do with the approbation and consent of the said Council and by the Authori∣ty of these presents appoint the City of Pavia for that purpose. And let no man contravene this our Decree, upon pein of the displeasure of God Almighty and of his Apostles SS. Peter and Paul. Given and enacted at Constance in the publick Council-House, April 18. in the first year of our Pontificate.

And now he was willing the Council should be dissolv'd, wherefore calling a full Assembly, with the good liking of the Emperor and of all the rest, he commanded Ibaldo Cardi∣nal of S. Vitus to dismiss them, which he did by saying, Sirs, Depart in peace. Every one now having leave to be gone, the Pope was desired, on the one side, by the Emperor and the Germans, that he would tarry some time in their Country, and by the French Princes, on the other side, to go into France; but he told 'em he could not do it by any means, because he said, the Churches Patrimony was torn and spoiled by Usur∣pers in Italy whilst the Pope was absent; and that the City of Rome, which was the Metropolis of Christendom, was almost ruin'd for want of the presence of its Governour, so much it had suffer'd by Plague, Fa∣mine, Sword, Fire, and Sedition; beside that the Churches and Chap∣pels of the holy Martyrs, by the Pope's absence were either in ruins, or ready to fall, and therefore he must be gone thither. He desired 'em to take that kindly which reason and necessity forced him to, and that they would let him sit in Peter's Chair, since they had unanimously chosen him Pope. That the Church of Rome was the Mother and the Head of all other Churches, and therefore the Pope ought to reside there, lest the true Pilot should be displaced from the Stern, to the Stem, to the great hazard and detriment of both Passengers and Sailers, (i.e. all Christian Men.) So he went from Constance through Savoy into Italy, and arrived at Millain: where he was very kindly received by Duke Philip and all his People, who gave him all the respect imaginable. Phi∣lip was at that time in Arms, endeavouring to recover his paternal in∣heritance, which the Usurpers kept from him with great bravery and

courage; for having once tasted how pleasant it was to govern, they were not easily turn'd out of possession. However Carmignola Philip's chief Commander press'd Pandulphus Malatesta very hard, who having taken Pergamo, by bribing the Governour to betray the Castle, moved toward Brescia, and would have quickly strip'd him of all his Dominions, had he not been aided by the Venetians with great sums of Money and stout Cavalry; or had not Pope Martin persuaded Philip to make a Peace with Pandulphus: which was accordingly afterward composed and a∣greed upon at Mantoua, in the presence of Martin, and by the Umpirage of John Francisco, upon these terms; to wit, That Pandulphus paying a yearly Tribute should keep Brescia so long as he lived, but should not have Power to give it away by Will, because at his Death it naturally devolv'd upon Philip. But the next year Pandulphus broke his Peace, by endeavouring by Men and Money to keep Cabrinus Fundulus in the possession of Cremona. For Philip made War against him and endea∣voured to regain the City which was his paternal Inheritance, but had been so many years possess'd by that Usurper. Yet there was a report that Pandulphus had bought the City of Cabrinus, and promised to give him Riviera di Salo for it. But John Francisco strove all he could to keep him from this War, and sent Embassadors to tell him that he did contrary to all Law and Reason, in violating of Leagues, defending a Tyrant, and taking up Arms against him who gave him the Govern∣ment of Brescia. And that Martin's Authority ought not to be slight∣ed, to say nothing of his own, by whose Arbitrement the Peace was made. But if he slighted the Authority of Men, at least he should re∣verence that of God, whom they had invoked as a witness to the League, which he had broken. Soon after the Pope went away from Mantoua, in the fourth month after he came thither, and passing through Ferrara and Romagna he came to Florence, without calling at Bologna which he shun'd on purpose. For when they of Bologna heard that Baldesar Cos∣sa was forced to lay down the Pontificate, they expelled the Church-Officers and asserted their Liberty. At that time Carmignola press'd hard upon Pandulphus (by his breach of the Peace made justly obno∣xious to a War) and in a short space took a great part of the Country of Brescia, and pitch'd his Camp at Montclere, there to encounter Lewis Meliorat Nephew to Innocent VII. who was said to be coming with a great Body of Horse to help Pandulphus. For they two were kindred by Marriage, and Lewis did it in respect to his Relation. So they join∣ed Battel, wherein Lewis was basely routed; and not long after Carmig∣nola reduced Brescia and made it subject to Philip: who also within a little while was Master of Cremona, and put Cabrinus the Usurper to Death. Nicolas d' Este being mov'd at Philip's great success, went of his own accord, and did what he might have been forced to; that is, he went to Millain and restored Parma (which he possess'd himself of when Otho the Third died) to Philip, but kept Rheggio, at the request of Pope Martin, as a Fee. Thither also went John Francis Prince of Mantoua, to congratulate Philip's Successes. But when he saw Philip look gruffly upon him, and understood that he design'd to renew his Claim to all that he held of the Cremoneses and the Brescians, he went from Millain in haste, and enter'd into Alliance with the Florentines, and Venetians. For those two States were very timorous, and took pains to

draw over whom they could to their Party; because Philip, who loved Dominion, had broken the League with them, and not onely given Sar∣zana upon the River Magra, to Thomas Fregoso (whom he had expelled from his Principality lest he should join with the Bandittoes of Genoa against him) but also had incited the Bolognians, who were Allies of the Florentines▪ to revolt, and in order to it hired their Soldiers to fight under him; nay he had got possession of Forli under colour of the non-age of Theobald, or to gratifie the Prince of Ferrara, whereas there was a proviso in the League, that Philip should not meddle with Bologna and Romagna. They feared likewise, lest all would be carried by the power of the three mighty Princes, to wit, Philip, Pope Martin, and King Lewis, whom they knew to be Confederates. Whereas on the other side Philip laid all the fault upon the Venetians, because they had en∣deavour'd to keep Pandulphus in the Government of Brescia, and because the Florentines and Genoeses had assisted some of his Enemies with Money and Ammunition, and had bought Legorne, (which he had lately Conquer'd) of the Genoeses for an hundred thousand pounds. These seeds of Discord might seem enough to raise a War at that time, but nothing did more set on the Venetians, than the Autho∣rity of Carmignola, a person mightily famed for warlike Discipline, as any of that Age. This person could not endure (as he used to say himself) the insolence of Philip and therefore came over to the Veneti∣ans, and animating them to War promised to assist 'em with his utmost. Whereupon these two States, assisted by the Princes of Mantoua and Fer∣rara, and going Partners in the charge of the War, set out an Army of twelve thousand Horse and eight thousand Foot, over whom Carmig∣nola was General. And then setting upon Philip from every quarter at once, with Boats upon the River as well as Ships upon the Sea, they were invited into the Town by the Guelphs of Brescia, who were against Philip. And having seized some part of it, they reduced it all into their own power within seven months. Then Carmignola led them to take the Castles which belonged to Brescia, when Pope Martin, very much concerned for Philips misfortune, sent the Cardinal of S. Crosses to the Venetians, to mediate between them and Philip. But that did not succeed, because the Venetians and Florentines made unreasonable Demands, and so they began again mighty preparations for a War. They fought thrice in that year, first at Cotolengo, a Castle of Brescia; the se∣cond time at the upper part of Cremona (in which two places they parted pretty equal, and neither had the better on't) and the third time at Maclodio; where Philip was defeated, and Charles Malatesta the Ge∣neral taken. This was so great an overthrow, that if Carmignola would have kept the Soldiers that he took, and have pursu'd 'em whilst they were in such a consternation, it had been no great pains to have turn'd Philip out of his Principality. Charles (I told you) was taken in that Battel, but was sent away safe by the Prince of Mantoua, his Kinsman; But Carmignola employing the Army against the Towns belonging to the Brescians, which had continu'd in their Allegiance to Philip, he gave him time to breath upon it. For he not onely made Peace with Ama∣dens Duke of Savoy (who lay hard upon him) yielding him Vercelli; but he instigated the Emperor Sigismund and Branorus Scala against the Ve∣netians. But Pope Martin, seeing Philip in such dangerous Circumstan∣ces, sent the Cardinal of S. Crosses again to make peace between him

and the Venetians: who staying at Ferrara, till the several Embassadors of the Princes and Cities came with instructions, he made a Peace upon these Conditions, That the Venetians should keep Brescia and all the Towns belonging to the Brescians or Cremoneses, which they had taken; that Philip should surrender Bergamo and all that appertain'd to it to the Venetians; and that he should not molest their Allies, or those of the Florentines, or perswade any of 'em to revolt. Martin approved of this Peace, for fear Philip should be quite turn'd out of his Dutchy. For as he could not be his Friend (though he loved him well) upon the account of Religion: so neither could he then especially, because at that time the Church-Treasury had been exhausted for several years by the War against Brachius. For when he went to Florence, he found Brachius Montonius, an excellent Soldier, had so far got possession of Perugia, the Dutchy of Spoleto, and great part of the Churches Patri∣mony (by help of the Usurpers round about) that he could not get safe to Rome. But when Brachius upon Admonition would not com∣ply, the Pope used first of all spiritual Weapons, that is, Censures, a∣gainst him; and interdicted all his Adherents, nor were the Priests al∣lowed to do their Office in the usual places. At which misfortune of their Friend Brachius the Florentines were concern'd, and treated with Martin for Peace, upon Condition, that Brachius should throw himself at the Popes feet and ask pardon, which he did. And that he should restore some Towns to the Church, and fight under the Pope till he had reduced Bologna which was then in Rebellion, and made it subject to Martin. In which War Gabriel Condelmer, Cardinal-Priest of S. Clements, and Legate, was General; who by his industry and Brachius's Valour subdu'd Bologna in a short time, and made it tributary to the Church. Whilst these things were transacted in Bologna, the four Cardinals, for∣merly of Peter Luna's party, the Anti-Pope, came to Martin at Florence, where they were receiv'd most honourably by the whole Consistory, and retein'd their former Dignities. Three were Cardinal-Deacons, but the fourth, who was formerly a Canon Regular, was a Cardinal-Priest. Baldesar Cossa being still a Prisoner at Heidelberg in Germany under the Count Palatine, some Citizens of Florence (of which Cosmus was one) were urgent with Pope Martin, to set him at liberty: The Pope pro∣mised, he would: but whilst his Legate went thither to perform it, Bal∣desar, being impatient of staying any longer, gave the Count Palatine thirty thousand pounds to free him: And coming into Italy, he went di∣rectly toward Florence, but call'd upon Peter Rubeus a Baron of Parma, and an old Friend of his, where he understood that there was wait laid for him. Thereupon he fled by Night, along with the Legate whom he met by the way, to Thomas Fregosos, another old Friend of his, and gave people a suspition that the Schism would be renew'd. For he was a Man of great Courage, and very cunning, nor could he endure a pri∣vate life. Besides, there were not wanting such as would incite the bold Man to innovations, they were generally at that time so much af∣fected with Novelties. But God Almighty took pity on his Church and put Baldesar upon a resolution of going to Martin at Florence, without any Articles of Agreement, or any Caution, between them. When he came thither and had kiss'd the Popes foot (to the admiration of all that saw it) he saluted him in the presence and hearing of all the Com∣pany, by the name of Christ's true Vicar, and a true Pope canonical∣ly

elected. This was strange to all that saw it, and brought to pass, it should seem, rather by Gods providence than any humane skill: That a Man, covetous of Dominion, and in such an high Station before, should be so supple in a place where he might be free, because he was loved by all. But it made every body cry for joy, especially those Cardinals, that had acknowledged him as the true Pope. But Martin considering the vicissitude, or changeableness of humane Affairs, made him a Car∣dinal in few days, and then Bishop of Frascati; after which he shew'd him as much respect as any other Cardinal, both in publick and private. But Baldesar (some think) died of grief in a few months after, at Flo∣rence, (as being unable to endure a private life) and was buried most honourably in S. Johns Church, nor far from the Cathedral, at the great cost and charges of Cosmo di Medices, who grew so rich with Baldesars Mo∣ney, that he was look'd upon as the chief Man in Florence of a Citizen, nay perhaps the richest in Italy, or the World. Upon his Tomb were writ∣ten these words: BALDESARIS COSSAE, JOHANNIS XXIII. QƲONDAM PAPAE CORPƲS HOC TƲMƲLO CONDITƲM. Du∣ring these Actions at Florence, the Emperor of Constantinople's Agents came to the Pope, and promised that the Greeks would come over to the Latins in all points of Faith upon reasonable terms. The Pope re∣ceiv'd them very kindly and splendidly, and made Peter Fontesiccus (a Spaniard, Cardinal of S. Angelo, and a very learned Man) Legate à La∣tere, to go to Constantinople and settle matters there. But before he sent the good Man away, he dispatch'd Frier Anthony Massanus thither, (who was General of the Minors) to find how the Emperor and the Greeks were affected, and tell him what he might trust to. Now the Romans were ur∣gent to have him come to Rome, and therefore taking his leave very kind∣ly of the Florentines, he made their City a Metropolis. For though be∣fore, even from its foundation almost, it had only had the honour of a Bi∣shoprick, he made it an Arch-Bishoprick, and the Mother-Church to Vo∣laterra, Pistoia, and Fiesola. He also gave a bigger Altar to S. Mary the New, belonging to the Order of Preachers, where he lived all the while he was at Florence; that Convent being very commodious for his recepti∣on. At last, parting from Florence he came to Rome, where all the peo∣ple met him; and the Nobility look'd upon him as the good Genius, or Father of their Country.* 1.184 And that day the Romans put in their Calendar as a lucky one. When he came he found the City of Rome so ruinated, that it look'd nothing like a City. You might have seen the Houses ready to totter, the Churches fallen down, the Streets empty, the City full of Dirt and Mire, and in exteam want of all sorts of provisions. What should I say more? There was neither the face of a City, nor any sign of civility there, the Citizens seeming rather Sojourners and Vagabonds. The good Pope was troubled to see it, and apply'd himself to adorning of the City, and reforming the Ci∣tizens manners, so that in a short time it looked much better than be∣fore. For this reason he was called by the People not onely the True Pope, but Father of his Country. But lest that publick joy should last too long without interruption, the year following in November, on St. Andrews Eve, the Tiber swell'd so high, that it came in at the Porta del popolo, over∣flow'd the whole City, (which lies upon a level) and filled the Church of S. Mary the round as far as the great Altar. Two days after it fell,

but took much Cattel along with it, and did great damage to the Citi∣zens; who sailed about the Streets, as upon the Tiber. Now King Lewis, Son to Lewis came to Rome, and obtain'd of Martin to be inve∣sted King of Naples, by general consent of the Cardinals. For he ha∣ving been invited thither and adopted by Queen Joan, Sister to Ladis∣laus, expected by this means to get the Kingdom without fighting, but was driven out of Naples by a contrary Faction and retired to Calabria. And now the time for the Council drawing near (according to the Decree at Constance) Martin was pleased, by consent of the Cardinals, to send some Bishops before to Pavia, to begin it: that seeming to be the most commodious place for it. Thither therefore he immediately sent Peter Donatus, Arch-Bishop of Candia, James Camplo Bishop of Spo∣leto, Peter Rosatius Abbot of Aquilegia, Frier Leonard a Florentine, and General of the Preachers, to open the Council; But they found no body yet come from France or Germany, onely two Abbots of Burgun∣dy; therefore they thought fit to defer it, till one at least should be come from each Nation, little of moment being to be transacted without uni∣versal consent. But while they waited their coming, on a sudden Pa∣via was visited so severely with a Plague, that with the Popes leave, the Presidents of the Council remov'd to Sienna; whither people came from all Nations more readily and in greater numbers than to Pavia. Alphonsus King of Aragon, (who was an Enemy to Martin for giving the Title of King of Naples and Sicily to Lewis, which himself desired) sent his Embassador to the Council with Order to delay it as much as he could, and to bring about the Cause of the Anti-pope Peter Luna (yet alive in Panischola) either by Promises or Bribes to those who had greatest Authority in the Council. Wherefore Martin (who knew very well, how great a calamity such a thing would bring upon the Church, and what danger there was in delays) commanded the Coun∣cil to be immediately dissolv'd, approving first of the Decrees made in it, that concern'd matters of Faith. And lest he might seem to fear a General Council, he order'd that another should be held at Basil se∣ven years after. Thus did that prudent, subtil Man root out the seeds of Schism and Discord that were sown in the Council of Siena. Al∣phonso then complain'd of Martin publickly, that by his means he was put by the Kingdom which Joan designed for him, and Lewis was made Heir in his room. Martin easily confuted this charge, and told him that Lewis was confirm'd Heir to Joan by Alexander V. and John XXIII. long before: and that all the blame ought to be laid on the Queen, and not upon him, whose business it was to strengthen rather than weaken the Churches Feudataries, unless they had committed some heinous Offence against the Sea of Rome: and that he did not see, why Lewis might not be lawful Heir to Joan who was Crown'd by his Order. But when Brachius saw the Pope involv'd in so many Affairs, and so distracted by reason of the quarrel between him and Alphonso, he got many of the Church-Towns by force, and laid close Siege to Aquila a City in the Kingdom of Naples. The Pope was angry at that, and raising a good sufficient Army, he attempted to relieve Aquila, assisted by the Army of the Queen and Lewis, and not far from Aquila he conquer'd and kill'd Brachius in the open Field. The Sfortians were in that Battel, under the conduct of Francis Son to Sforza, who some

years before going over the River Piscara (which the Ancients call'd Aternus) was drown'd. Brachius's body was brought to Rome, and bu∣ried in an unhallow'd place without the Porta di Sancto Lorenzo. Upon this Victory there was so great tranquillity (besides that Perugia, To∣di, and Assisi with some other Towns which Brachius had possession of were reduced to the Church) that they thought Augustus's happy days were come again into the World. Then people lived at ease, and could walk even in the Night through the Woods without any danger; no Robbers being abroad, no Russians and Thieves; for he cut off Tartalia, Lauellus, and other Usurpers, that got their living rather by Rapine, than War. But the Hereticks of Bohemia who plagu'd the Catholicks of Germany continually with Heresie and Arms, seemed to interrupt this Peace and happiness. To make them therefore submit to Reason and to the Church, he admonish'd them first of all very gravely, and when that would not do, he sent Legats into Germany, to stir up the Catho∣licks to Arms. And first he sent Henry, Cardinal of S. Eusebius thi∣ther, alone, then Bartholomew of Piacenza; and last of all he recall'd them, and sent Julian Caesarinus Cardinal of S. Angelo, who receiv'd great damage from the Enemy, not by his own fault, but by the cowardise of his Soldiers. However Martin was not discouraged at it, but made greater preparations against the Hereticks; onely before he set about such a grand Affair, he resolv'd to compose and quiet Italy. For when the Peace was made by Martin between Philip and the Venetians, the Florentines bore a grudg at Ladislaus Son to Paul Guinisius, Lord of Luc∣ca, for the assistance he gave Philip in the preceding War, and now he not being mention'd in the Articles of that Peace, they laid hold on it as a fair opportunity to subdue the City, and having raised an Army under Nicolas Fortebrachius and taken some Castles thereabout, they laid Siege to it. Whereupon Philip by the entreaty of Paul, and for fear lest if Lucca fell into the hands of the Florentines, he should find them the sharper, as being the nearer Enemies, he first sent Francis Sfor∣za into Parma with a great body of Horse, to raise Foot-soldiers there. Who passing the Apennine in the beginning of Spring put the Flo∣rentines into such a fright, that before he came into the Cloudy Vale (as the Inhabitants call it) the Enemies had removed their Camp, and rais∣ed their Siege from before Lucca, out of fear. And his coming was so much the more welcome to the Lucceses, because when their Enemies were subdu'd and the Usurper taken, they thought to become absolute freemen by Francis's assistance. But the Florentines bribing Francis with fifty thousand pounds, he left the people of Lucca in a worse condition than ever; having promised for that Sum not to serve Philip for six months. Then the Lucceses were besieged more close than before: Whereupon Philip at the request of Martin (who also pitied the case of the Lucceses) sent. Nicolas Piceninus thither with a great Body of Horse presently; who vanquish'd and routed the Enemy, and not only raised the Siege, but march'd thence, and took many Castles belonging to Pisa and Volaterra by storm, and did the Sieneses a kindness, who then made War upon the Florentines. Martin being now undisturb'd by any forein Foe, apply'd his mind to adorn the City, and Churches of Rome, and to that purpose, repaired the Portico of S. Peters which was falling down, and paved the Lateran Church with Mosaic work,

cieled it anew; and began those Paintings there which were done by the hand of the famous Gentilis. He likewise repaired the old Palace that was ready to fall, near the Twelve Apostles, where he lived some years. The Cardinals follow'd his Example, and re-edified their Churches as fast as they could; so that now Rome look'd something like a City. He also created certain Cardinals, of which his Nephew Prosper Columna, Cardinal of S. George, was one. In the mean time Peter Luna dy'd at Panischola, but lest the Church should be at quiet, those two Anti-Cardinals, that I told you of, were persuaded by Al∣phonso who was Martin's Enemy, to choose Giles Munio (a Canon of Barselona, and a Nobleman) Pope, and call'd him Clement VIII. He was no sooner chosen, but he made Cardinals and acted as Pope. But when Martin and Alphonso were friends again, he sent Peter de Fuso a Cardinal, as Legate from the Sea Apostolick thither: to whom Giles resign'd his Title to the Popedom, at the command of Alphonso. For which Martin was so kind to him afterward, that he made him Bishop of Majorca. And the Cardinals also that were made by Giles did vo∣luntarily lay down their Dignity. But those two that Peter Luna made remain'd still obstinate, and therefore because they would not obey the Pope, the Legate put them in Prison. Thus Martin's industry and prudence removed the Schism from all parts; and when the Church was setled he used as much skill and discretion in conferring of Bene∣fices. For he did not bestow 'em upon every one that ask'd him, but con∣sider'd who was fittest to receive them, and to take such a charge upon him. And if he did not know any body in the Country where Bene∣fices fell, he used to send and enquire of those that knew the place who was qualified with Learning, Birth, or breeding fit for any Office. And thus did he advance the Church and deserving Men at the same time, to his great Honour. In fine, so couragious and resolute he was, that though he had two Brothers, the elder of which (Jorda∣nus, Prince of Salerno) died of the Plague, and the other (Lorenzo) was burn'd to death in a Turret which was casually set on fire, he was not known to say, or do any thing, that argued Impatience, or lowness of mind. But this same Person so exactly good in the whole course of his life, died at Rome of an Apoplexy in the fourteenth year and the third month of his Pontificate, and the sixty third year of his Age: and was by his own Order buried in S. Johns Church near the Heads of the Apostles, in a brazen Tomb, and attended by all the people of Rome, and the Clergy, weeping as if the Church of God, and the City of Rome had been bereft of their onely and their best Pa∣rent. The Sea at that time was vacant twelve days.

EƲGENIƲS IV.

EƲGENIƲS the Fourth, a Venetian, of the Family of Con∣delmero, (a common but ancient name) whose Fathers name was Angelo, arrived at the Pontificate after this manner. When Gregory XII. was made Pope (who was of the Family of Coraro, and a Venetian) Anthony Corar Gregory's Nephew, a Canon of S. Georges in Alga going to Rome, took Gabriel Condelmero, who was of the same profession and had lived with him from his Childhood, along with him somewhat against his will. Gregory was so taken with his Wit and Parts, that he first made him his Treasurer, and then Bishop of Siena, having made his Nephew Anthony Bishop of Bologna. The Sieneses refused Ga∣briel at first, and would not have him for their Bishop; alledging that a Foreiner ought not to be set over them in that high Function, but one that knew the customs and usages of their City. But when Gre∣gory afterward upon a distrust of his condition, left Rome for Lucca, and encreased the number of Cardinals, he made Anthony his Nephew and Gabriel Condelmero two, who was made use of by Gregory after that, and (when he was turn'd out) by Martin in many great Affairs; e∣specially in the Embassy to the Marcha d' Ancona, in which he not only confirm'd the Inhabitants in their Allegiance to the Church, by punish∣ing some seditious Conspirators, but also repaired the Church of S. Ag∣nes at Ancona, which was decay'd, and the Port of the same City which was Weather-beaten, very old, and ruinous; so as to make it like Tra∣jans. And afterward when Martin understood that the Bolognians were set upon innovations, he sent Gabriel from Ancona thither, who suppress'd the Sedition as soon as he came. Where coming to Rome, and Martin soon after dying, he alone was thought fit to be made Pope, out of eighteen Cardinals, who at that time were in the Conclave, and changing his name to Eugenius, was brought immediatey to S. Peters, attended by all the People and Clergy, in the year 1431. March 3d. And having re∣ceived the Papal Crown he went to the Lateran, and from thence to the Vatican, where he set a day for a general Consistory to be held. At which there was such a Concourse of People, that the Timber of the building where they met, (and where the publick Consistory now stands) gave way, and put the people into such a consternation, that the Bishop of Sinigaglia, a Citizen of Rome, of the Family of Mella, was trodden to death in the throng: For the Popes House was not built at that time as it is now. When the Consistory was dismiss'd, Eugenius took all care to avoid Tumults. But some Sycophants persuading him that Martin who was very covetous had left somewhere a great Treasure behind him, of which he might be inform'd by Martin's Friends and Re∣lations; they made the Man so mad, that he commanded Oddo Poccio Martin's Vice-Chamberlain to be laid hold on, and gave the charge of the business to Stephen Colonna his General (the onely person of his Party among the Colonna's) Cardinal Ʋrsin and Cardinal Comitum eg∣ging him on, by whose contrivance 'tis thought all these things were

done against the Colonneses, out of an old grudg between the two Fa∣ctions. Eugenius however commanded that Oddo should be brought to him quietly and civily which was quite contrarily executed by Stephen. For not onely his goods were plunder'd by the Soldiers, but he was carried by force, or rather dragg'd like a Robber publickly into the Pope's presence. Eugenius was very angry at this rude usage of him, and check∣ed Stephen for it; nay threaten'd to punish him severely for bringing not onely Oddo but the Bishop of Tivoli, who was formerly Martin's Chamberlain, before him after such an unworthy manner. Hereupon Stephen fearing the Popes displeasure fled to Palestrina, to Prince Colon∣na, and desired him to join with him, to drive Eugenius from the City, because, he said, Eugenius had a Design to extinguish the whole Family of Colonna. And that he knew that to be so; for he was privy to it himself, and that he ran away from the City, because he knew that he also must bear a part in that common Calamity, unless they all avoided it together. The Prince moved with what he said, and with the mis∣fortunes of such as had been Martin's Friends, took up Arms and im∣mediately resolv'd to set upon the Pope, staying onely a little, till his Brother Prosper, a Cardinal Deacon, whom he had forewarn'd of the business, could get out of the City. And as soon as he saw him, he march'd from Palestrina to Marino, and thence to Rome against Eugenius; and having the Gate di Sancto Sebastiano deliver'd up to him by John Baptista, he enter'd the Town at first without doing any violence. But when they were come as far as S. Marks, in the Street called Colonna, the Pope's Soldiers met them, assisted by a great number of people. They fought some time in the City very stoutly; and many were slain and taken on both sides. But the Colonneses seeing the People of Rome otherwise affected than they expected, they resolv'd to retreat out of the City, but as they went they plunder'd all things, drove away the Cat∣tel, and forc'd a great many Men along with 'em. But the Pope's Sol∣diers, mix'd with the Romans requited 'em for it. For they plunder'd and laid waste the Houses of Prosper the Cardinal, and all the Colonneses, together with all those that had been Martin's Friends. Being thus in∣cens'd on either side, they began to make use of treachery as well as open force, to bring about their Designs. For the Arch-Bishop of Be∣nevento, Son to Anthony Colonna, was taken, and one Masius a Frier, who being tortur'd confess'd, that he intended to kill the Governour of Castel S. Angelo, and so taking it by surprise, to betray it to the Colonneses, who, being once Masters of that, might drive the Pope and the Ʋrsins out of Rome, when they pleased. Masius was degraded from the Priest∣hood and quarter'd in Campo di Fiore, and his Limbs hung up at the four chief Gates of the City, nothing being said of the Arch-Bishop of Benevento. But Eugenius falling sick either of grief for these troubles or of Poison, as some said, he clap'd up a Peace with the Colonneses by the mediation of Angelot Foscus a Roman Citizen, whom he not long after made Cardinal at the same time with Francis Condelmero his Ne∣phew. This Peace he made publick with as much speed as possible, because he understood that Sigismund was come into Italy, and design'd for Rome; upon which he made his Nephew Francis Chamberlain: and gave him some excellent Persons for his Assistants in the management of the Church Patrimony. Whilst these things pass'd thus at Rome, the

Florentines and Venetians having routed a Fleet of Philip Duke of Genoa upon the Coast of Genoa in a Sea-fight, and having a Pope who was their Country-man, took the confidence to invade Philip by Land: But he sent for Nicolas Picenninus immediately out of Tuscany, and both beat the Venetian Fleet at Cremona, and easily defeated Carmignola, whom the Venetians beheaded a little after having first (as they say themselves) con∣victed him by Torture, Letters produc'd and Oral testimony that it was through his treachery, that they did not take Cremona, when Ca∣valcabos had seized one Gate of the City: and that the Navy was van∣quish'd before his face, when he might easily have hinder'd it with such a number of men as he had so near. But then the Florentines fearing lest the Emperor now coming into Italy, should favour Philip, they dis∣patch'd Nerius Capponius a Citizen of theirs, if possible, to persuade Eu∣genius, that the Emperors coming to the City, did threaten no less ruin to the Sea Apostolick than to Florence: And that it was an easie matter to keep him from passing over Arno into Siena (which had molested the Florentines a long time) if he would command Nicolas Tollentinas, then in Arms under the Pope, to join Michelett Cotignola, General of the Florentines, and oppose Sigismund at Arno, that he might not pass the River with his German Horse. Eugenius was easily persuaded to it; and upon some Debate about the charge of the War, Nerius took up the bu∣siness and agreed that the Florentines should pay two thousand Horse of Eugenius's raising as long as the War lasted. Then Nicolas Tollenti∣nas at the Pope's command march'd out of his Winter-quarters, and whilst he pillaged the Sieneses, gave Sigismund opportunity to pass the River Arno (by the assistance of Anthony Pontadera, who was an excel∣lent Commander, and a bitter Enemy of the Florentines) and thence pas∣sing through Volaterra in so peaceable a manner, that his Army seemed rather friends than foes, he was received and made welcome wherever he came. The Emperor having tarried six months at Siena, to the great cost of that City, and having in vain attempted to make Peace with the Florentines, applying himself to Eugenius he made a League with him, and then went to Rome; where he was kindly entertain'd by the people and the Pope, and receiv'd the Imperial Crown: And going from the Vatican, where he was crown'd, into the Lateran where he lodg'd, he Knighted several Italians and Germans at Ponte di S. An∣gelo, according to custom. And some say that Eugenius waited on him so far, and then went back to S. Peter's. After that the Emperor took leave of the Pope, and travelling through the Marcha d' Ancona, and Romagna he arrived at Ferrara and Mantoua. Where when he had stay'd some days, he made John Francis, Lord of Mantoua a Marquis, and married Barbara, the Daughter of John, Marquis of Brandenburgh to Lewis, Son of John Francis. This match was thought an honour to the Gonzagan Family, not onely because the Lady was akin to the Em∣perour, but because her Father John was an Imperial Elector. At last the Emperor departed out of Italy, leaving all things in confusion; but Nicolas d' Este, Marquis of Ferrara was persuaded by Philip to go to Venice and exhort them to Peace, and so he did, insomuch that they were induced by the awe he had over 'em, and considering their great expences, to send Plenipotentiaries to Ferrara along with him, where by consent of Eugenius, April 1. 1433. a Peace was concluded upon these

Conditions: to wit, That Philip should depart out of Geradada and de∣liver it up to the Marquis of Monteferrat and Orlando Pallaricini, both whom he had turn'd out of their paternal Inheritance, that all which had been taken from the Florentines, the Sieneses, or those of Lucca should be return'd to the Owners; and that he should be look'd upon as a common Enemy, that did not restore what he had taken in thirty days. Thus having made a Peace in all parts, they hoped for some rest, when on the sudden the whole shock of the War fell upon Eugenius. For Philip who loved Novelties sent Francis Sforza with a great Army into Romagna, pretending to march into Puglia (which Alphonso had in∣vaded) to defend those Towns which his Father Sforza had possess'd there. Who marching through Ancona and Ombria with his Army in good order, surprised and took them in a moment. And Philip not content to do so, sent Nicolas Fortebrachius, a valiant and prudent Commander with chosen Horse so suddenly against Eugenius that he was possess'd of the Ponte Molle and the Porta del popolo, before it was known that any Enemy approached. This Nicolas had formerly fought under Eugenius, and by his Commission had subdu'd the Governor of Vetralla and Civita Ve∣chia, by the help of the Venetian Galleys that attaqued the Castle off the Sea. But when Nicolas afterward demanded his pay, Eugenius answered him, that he had taken as much spoil out of the Castle, espe∣cially out of the Town as would satisfie him. At which Nicolas was so angry, that he went into the parts about Rome, and raised such tu∣mults, taking and driving away such numbers of Men and Cattel, that Eugenius was some time at a stand what to do. The Romans flock'd to him with their complaints; but the Pope, who at that time wanted both advice and health, sent 'em to Francis the Chamberlain, who being devoted to idleness and pleasure, gave 'em no other answer, but that they over-valued their Cattel (for they often complain'd of the loss of them) and told 'em that the Venetians lived more like Citizens than they without Beasts and flocks of Cattel. The Romans were dis∣pleased at this answer, and therefore when Nicolas had taken Tivoli (beating Count Tagliacotius out of it) and Subiaco, and drawn all the Colonneses to his party (Stephen Colonna, who was always of the other side being kill'd by the Prince) they threw off the yoke of Subjection and crying out, Arms, Arms, Liberty, Liberty, they beat out all Eugenius's Officers and taking Francis the Chamberlain Prisoner they created a new Magistracy of their own choosing, consisting of seven Romans whom they called Governors, who had power of life and death. But Eugenius in such an Hurry not knowing what to do resolv'd to flee for't. And immediately changing his Habit for that of a Monk, went on shipboard in a small Vessel along with Arsenius the Monk down the Tiber to Ostia. Whereupon certain Romans, that knew of his going, threw Stones and shot Arrows at him; for they would fain have kept him there till they had got possession of S. Angelo. Nevertheless Euge∣nius went away upon the 7th of July and sailed to Pisa first, and then to Florence in Galleys laid on purpose for his passage; and then the Ro∣mans betook themselves to storm the Castle, raising Mounds and Bul∣warks in all places, that might make it more accessible to the Enemy. On the other side, those of the Castle made some sallies upon them; and the Governor thinking it fit to use some stratagem with the people of

Rome, He (by the assistance and advice of Baldesar Aufido a cunning Cap∣tain, that defended the lower part of the Castle) bad one of his Soldiers that sallied out, that he should suffer himself to be taken by the Enemy, and then blame the cruelty and covetousness of him the Governor, and promise them that if they would give him such a reward, he would kill the Governor and betray the Castle. The Soldier did exactly as he was bid; and when he was taken, said all the ill things he could de∣vise against Antony Ridio (the Governor) and swore, he would bring the matter about to their mind. Thereupon being dismissed he went in∣to the Castle and hung up Anthonies Clothes, with somewhat like his Head on top of them, which was visible a great way off. Baldesar presently cry'd out, the wicked Fellow was justly punish'd, and that some of the chief Roman Commanders might now come in, and, if they paid the reward, take the Castle. They not being aware of the trick, went in, and were strait taken. Immediately there was a joyful noise in the Castle, and Darts and Bullets were thrown and shot upon the Romans without. The Romans being thus deluded advised concerning the enter-change of their Captives, and in order to it, set the Chamber∣lain, Eugenius's Nephew, at Liberty: and unanimously submitted to Eugenius within five months after they thought to have gain'd their freedom. Then there were Magistrates made in the name of the Church, who fortified the Capitol with strong Guards and other provisions. And after upon the arrival of John Viteleschus (whom they call'd, the Patri∣arch) Francis his Nephew being gone to Eugenius, a sudden dread seiz'd the Romans to such a degree that they durst not so much as open their mouths for fear. For Viteleschus was an imperious and cruel Man, and lived like a Tyrant rather than a Christian. These things were trans∣acted at Rome whilst Alphonso besieged Naples and Cajetta, which was stoutly defended by the Genoese Merchants: and the Genoeses thinking it their duty to assist their Countrymen, fitted out a Navy with all speed by the leave and good liking of Duke Philip Viconti, who lent 'em some Foot-Soldiers; and meeting their Enemy Alphonso not far from Ca∣jetta they engaged with him. After a long and a sharp conflict they de∣feated Alphonso, and took him Prisoner, and all his retinue, of which some were Princes. Alphonso was brought to Millain to Philip, but was en∣tertain'd not as a Captive, or an Enemy of the Genoeses, but as a King and a Friend. And when he had been treated honourably for some days, and presented by Philip with many great gifts, he went into his Kingdom and took Cajetta presently. Upon that the Genoeses were so enraged that he should free Alphonso so easily, whom they had taken with such hazard, that by the advice of Thomas Fregoso they revolted from Philip, and made the said Thomas their Duke. Then Picenninus, who was sent against the Genoeses, receiving news that they persisted in their obstinacy, took Sarzana, and marching toward Pisa, under pretence to go and help Alphonso, spoiled many Castles belonging to the Pisans. But the Florentines stopped his career, by sending for Francis Sfortia with the Pope's good liking, who was then in possession of Ancona, and endea∣vour'd, by the assistance of the Florentines and Venetians, to be made Lord of it. But Eugenius was against that; and said, that it became a Pope to preserve the Church-patrimony even by War, rather than alie∣nate it. So they deferred that business till another opportunity: yet Francis in hopes of it, did not onely beat Picenninus from the Siege of

Barga, taking Lewis Gonzaga who fought under Picenninus; but he laid close Siege to Lucca in the name of the Florentines. Picenninus was hin∣der'd from passing the Apennine to their relief, and therefore promised to free them another way. Wherefore he march'd through Bologna with∣out any molestation (onely taking a Town belonging to the Florentines, called Oriolo) and being mindful of the Lucceses, he went thither, and in the absence of Francis Sfortia vanquish'd the Florentines and raised the Siege of Lucca. The Pope being almost distracted with care, as well because he was surrounded with War, as that the Council of Basil, be∣gun by the Decree of Pope Martin, increased daily by the conflux of all the Princes of Spain, France, Germany and Hungary, who referr'd the case of all Christendom to that Council, he contrived how to dissolve it, and to that purpose, would have removed it from Basil to Bologna by general consent of the Cardinals that were there on his side. But the Emperor, other Princes and Prelates, then at Basil, did not onely dis∣obey the Pope, but admonish'd him several times to come himself with his Cardinals to Basil, which was a convenient place that Martin had chosen to hold the Council in, or else they threaten'd to oppose him as a preva∣ricating and an obstinate person. Eugenius was moved at their words and confirmed the Council at Basil by a new Breve, giving every one leave to go thither: for he was so tormented with Wars on all sides of him, that he had hardly time to breath. But having recover'd Rome, he sent John Viteleschus thither immediately, who was a Man indeed very fit for business, but savage and severe: who marching against the Co∣lonneses, the Sabelli, and all the Gibellin faction he sack'd and razed the Castle of Gandulpho standing on the Lago Albano, as also Savello, and Borgeto. He likewise took Alba, Civita Lapuvina, Palestrina and Za∣gatolo, and sent all the Inhabitants, that were alive, to Rome. Then turning his course into Campagna di Roma he brought 'em all over to the Church; and having taken Anthony Pontadera he hang'd him upon an Olive-Tree at Fraselone. Then coming back to Rome he put 'em all in a fear, and pull'd down several Houses of Conspirators, that had taken possession of the Porta Maggiore in a tumult, and declared them Enemies to the Church. Among the rest he took one Pulcellus, and tortur'd him with red hot Pincers and then hang'd him in Campo Fiore. When the Roman people complain'd, that the covetousness of some rich Men had brought a Famine upon the Country, there was so much Wheat immediately brought into the Market by his Order, that there ensued great plenty of all things in a short time; so readily were his Commands obey'd. When he had thus setled Affairs, he went into the Kingdom of Naples, which Alphonso had lately got possession of, and which he said belonged to the Pope and the Church, and there he took the Prince of Tarento with two thousand Horse and invaded the Domi∣nion of the Earl of Nola. He also had like to have taken Alphonso by fraud rather than force, when they had made a Truce, and a Peace was as good as concluded. When he had taken the Towns belonging to the Church he freed the Prince. And going back to Rome he demolish'd Palestrina, which was ready to rebel, by the persuasion of Lorenzo Colon∣na, and turned out the Inhabitants in great numbers to roam about the Country in the year 1435. In which year Eugenius went from Florence, (having first consecrated the Cathedral Church there) and going to Bo∣logna

he built a Fort near that Gate which leads towards Ferrara, and for∣tified the House where the Legate now resides, with a good high and broad Wall (behind especially) and with Turrets. The year after he in a publick Consistory translated the Council of Basil (though he had approved of that place) from thence to Ferrara; and said that the Greeks who had a mind to join with the Church of Rome had chosen that City to meet in. Then the Presidents of the Council at Basil were very ur∣gent with the Greeks and did exhort them with Prayers and Promises, that they would leave Eugenius and come to them. Nor were they con∣tent to do so onely, but they bragg'd that they would depose Eugenius too, if he would not come thither also. Eugenius could not tell for some time what to do, but yet he sent thither, as Legate, one John Francis Ca∣pitelista a Lawyer and a Knight of Padua, to plead his cause. But when Sigismund the Emperor was dead, by whose favour the Council of Basil flourish'd, and Albert Duke of Austria was chosen in his room, the Car∣dinal of S. Crosses began the Council of Ferrara in the name of Eugenius. Eugenius also went thither when he heard the Emperor of Constantinople, whose name was John Paleologus, was coming, with a great many Gal∣lies of his own, as well as what the Venetians for Eugenius's sake sent to meet the Emperor lest any violence should have been offer'd him: be∣cause he had an account, that certain French Gallies were sent by the Council into the Archipelago, with Orders either to bring the Emperor to them, or if they could not do so; that, at least, they should keep him from going to Ferrara. But Eugenius so far corrupted the Admiral of those Galleys with Money, that he left the Council at Basil and came over to his Party. When the Emperour came to Ferrara, he was entertain'd by Eugenius, as the Roman Emperours used to be treated. But Viteleschus when he had quieted the Church Dominions, and pu∣nish'd several Priests that had pilfer'd certain Jewels out of the Heads of Peter and Paul the Apostles in the Lateran Church, to which they be∣long'd, and, after that, had put James Galesius and his Accomplices to death for attempting to make Innovations upon the Government, he went to Ferrara where in a publick Consistory he was receiv'd into the number of Cardinals with great Honour. For he had been made Cardinal six months before at Bologna; and then returning with greater Authority, he put the Governour of Vetralla, and the Lord of Fuligno (after he had expell'd him from his usurp'd Dominion) to death in the Castle of Surio. But Eugenius desiring to unite the two Churches that were so long of different Opinions, in the year 1438, having made solemn Prayers and celebrated the Mass of the Holy Ghost, he went to the Council along with the Emperour and Patriarch of Constantinople, where the Emperour being seated on a Throne suitable to his Dignity, and the other Greeks in a place opposite to the Pope, the question was first ask'd, Whether the Latins and the Greeks who had been so long of different Opinions were willing to be united into one Church? At which they all cry'd out, They would very willingly, provided that their differences, were first reconciled by Reason. In order to which there were Dispu∣tations every day between those that the Latins and Greeks had chosen to debate those weighty Points. But there happening a Plague at Fer∣rara, which continued a good while, it was not safe staying there, and therefore the Council was removed to Florence. And as soon as they

came thither, Picenninus presently took possession of Forli, Imola, Ra∣venna and Bologna, by command from Philip, with a design to thwart Eugenius's intentions, who was a Friend to the Florentines and Venetians, his Enemies. After that he came back into Parma, and raising a great body of Horse he passed the Po, and took (in a short time) the greater Casal, and Platina, my native Country, and all that the Venetians had about Cremona. Then he routed Gattamelata General of the Venetian Army at Calvatoni, and with the Prince of Mantoua his Ally, he be∣sieged Brescia for some months, which was stoutly defended by the Citizens and one Francis Barbar, a very learned Man and their chief Magistrate. Whereupon he pass'd from thence to seize several Castles thereabout, and hinder provisions from being brought into the City, plundering and destroying all the Country as far as Verona and Vincen∣za, so that he left the Venetians nothing to live upon; but yet all this was not accomplish'd without great damage to his Men, especially in the dead of Winter which was the time they took to do it. He like∣wise secured great part of the Rivers Menzo, Adige, Lago di Garda, and Lago d' Iseo, that nothing might be carried that way by Water to the needy Inhabitants. But the fitting up of some Ships, that were remo∣ved out of the Adige into the Lago di S. Andreas, and careened below in the Lago di Garda near Forboli, gave the Venetians some respite. Then seeing nevertheless that Picenninus press'd those of Verona and Vincenza very hard, the Venetians thought themselves quite lost, if they did not get a good Commander, and therefore they sent James Donatus to Florence, then in League with 'em, to desire, that if the Florentines had any re∣gard to the Republick of Venice, or the safety and Liberty of Italy in general, that they would send Francis Sfortia immediately with all his Forces to Venice, now almost ruined by the Arms of Philip and the Man∣tuan. The Florentines being concern'd for their own danger as well as that of their Allies, persuade Francis to take up Arms for the Venetians, and promised him in the name of the City, to defend all the Towns that he had, which belong'd to the Church of Rome; which was his greatest desire. They also got Letters Apostolical from Eugenius with much ado, to declare Francis Marquis and Lord of Ancona: but with these words, Let him take it, and the Devil give him luck with it. Francis going with his Cavalry along the Coast of the Adriatick Sea fell into Ferrara, and passing the Po in Boats, and having augmented his Army in Padua (for he is said to have had twelve thousand Horse, and five thousand Foot) he met the Enemy first at Suave near Verona, where they fought very smartly for some time and neither had the bet∣ter on't. Afterward Picenninus by reason of his indisposition, and want of Men, gave way to his Power, and then Francis having recover'd all the Castles from them of Vincenza and Verona, he was about to raise the Siege from before Brescia, but seeing all other Avenues stopp'd, he pas∣sed the Adige, and marching into the parts about Trent, he went to Ar∣cho, a Town he had a mind to take, because the Earl of Archo was an Ally of Philip. Picenninus also came thither, to assist the Earl; but fighting more eagerly than cautiously (as he used to do) he was desert∣ed by the rest of the Army, and receiving great damage was fain to fly into the neighbouring Vallies, where he had been taken by the Ene∣my, if Charles Gonzaga, son to John Francis had not come between him

and them, and so saved him from that imminent danger; and yet for all that he was taken afterward, the Foe gathering strength, and carried Prisoner to Verona. There are that write, how Picenninus was so wea∣ken'd in one side with Wounds which he receiv'd in the several Battels, that he was not able to ride back to his Army, but was wrapp'd in a Sack, as if he had been dead, and so carried upon a lusty Fellows shoulders even through the Enemies Camp. Whilst these things were transacted in Venice, Philip taking it ill that the Florentines by the help and per∣suasion of Eugenius, had sent Francis Sfortia to aid the Venetians, he treat∣ed with those that were at the Council of Basil, to cite Eugenius before 'em; which they did twice or thrice. But when it did not answer his expectation, he so far infatuated them, as that they deposed Eugenius and chose Amadeus Duke of Savoy (his Father-in-law, who lived like an Hermit at Ripalia with some other Noblemen) Pope, and called him Felix. Hence arose great Seditions in the Church of God; for Christendom was divided into three parts, and some follow'd Eugenius, some Felix, and the rest were Neuters. For all that Eugenius was not de∣jected; but held frequent Assemblies, and Disputations between the Greeks and Latins, till at last it came to this result, that the Greeks were convinc'd that the Holy Ghost did proceed from the Father and the Son, and that he was homusius, that is of the same substance, and did not come forth from the Father onely, as they formerly believ'd: and that they ought to consecrate the Body of Christ with unleaven'd bread made of Wheat, and to believe a Purgatory. Lastly, That the Pope of Rome was Christ's true Vicar, and the lawful Successor of Saint Peter, to whom all the Eastern as well as Western Churches ought to submit, as being the universal Patriarch. The business thus setled, the Greeks went away; and then the Armenians also agreed with us in Faith, their Errors being confuted, and Eugenius's Letters to that pur∣pose promulgated, to shew the reason why they accorded, with this In∣scription, Given at the Holy General Council held at Florence in the Ca∣thedral there, Novemb. 22. 1439. When that was done he contrived how to strengthen himself and at the same time weaken the Council of Basil, and that was by making eighteen Cardinals at once in the pub∣lick Consistory: of which number two were Greeks, to wit Rutenus and Nicenus; that the Greeks might be kept in the Faith by their example and Authority: and yet that Nation fell back in a little time to its old State. Others were Peter Barbo his Sisters Son, and Alouisius Patavi∣nus whom he afterward made Patriarch of Aquilegia and Chamberlain, having advanced Francis Condelmerius to the Vicechancelourship. Whilst these things were acted near Trent, and People thought that Picenni∣nus and the Prince of Mantoua would yield at last, having received such damage, they removed thence with all speed to Verona and took it, by the help of Ladders wherewith they scal'd the Walls and enter'd in at the Cittadelle, unknown to any of the Sentinels, who, to avoid the extream cold of the North Wind (which that Night was very boiste∣rous,) had quitted their Posts, and were got into the Tents. But Francis Sfortia, when he heard that Verona was taken by the Enemy, march'd thither presently with all his Army, to recover it, knowing that the Venetians had still possession of the old Castle, and the Fort of S. Felix in the Mount. And therefore he enter'd the City that way with his

Army, and ran upon the Enemy with a mighty shout. Philip's Men met him with a few Horse (for all his Forces were not yet come up) and they fought very sharply in that part of the City, which they call the Island. At last the few were fain to yield to the many, and Picen∣ninus and the Mantuans betook themselves to the new Bridg (as they call it) where for some time they bore the shock of their Enemies. There, as the Horse were engaging, and a great many crowded in a little room, the Draw-bridg broke with the weight of Men and Horses, and almost all that fell into the River were drown'd, because they were tired with fasting so long, and sunk by the very weight of their Arms. Thereupon Francis flying to a Bridg of Boats, put over his Men and drove Picenninus and the Mantuan (who distrusted the Citizens fide∣lity) quite out of the City, within four days after he had taken it. Then Philip, that he might draw Francis from the Venetians by infesting the Florentines, who had given him the same pay as the Venetians did, sent Picenninus into Tuscany with six thousand Horse, in the midst of Winter. The Florentines seeing that, sent presently for Piergianpaulo, an excellent Commander, and desired Eugenius that he would assist 'em ac∣cording to the League by which he was bound to defend Tuscany; and so were resolv'd to meet Picenninus. But when they found that John Viteleschus had conspired with Philip, though he were at that time Le∣gate and General of the Church-Forces; and that he would not prove a friend (as he pretended) when he came into Tuscany, but an Enemy in the Head of six thousand Horse, and would fight against the Floren∣tines on Picenninus's side, the Magistrates of Florence contrived by real or feigned Letters (no matter which) from Eugenius, to have him kill'd by Anthony Ridius the Governour of Castel S. Angelo, just as his Men were passing the Bridg. And so he was; for he could not be aid∣ed by those that were gone over the Bridg, and therefore was as it were alone, because he brought up the Reer. The Count Aversus, who fought under the Patriarch, having lost his General, convey'd his Carriages a∣long with his own to Roncillione. But the Florentines being freed from so great a Terrour, deal cunningly with Eugenius, to let Lewis of Padua who succeeded Viteleschus, muster up all the Church-Forces and come to their assistance. This Lewis was a politick Man, and it was suppo∣sed that by his means Viteleschus was taken off. But Picenninus march∣ing down into the Vale of Mugello, kill'd and plunder'd all before him as far as Fiesole. Then turning toward Castentino, he by the assistance of Count Popio made many Towns revolt. Thence going to Perugia, he went quietly into the City, and sent the Legat who was then Governour there to the Pope Eugenius upon a certain Message. And in the mean time he took the Treasurer, and alter'd the whole State of the City. For he chose ten Citizens who had Power of life and death over all the rest. But the Perugians fearing lest he should set up a Tyranny upon them, they bargain'd with him to depart the City for fifty thousand pound. He did so and went to Cortona, hoping to take that place by treachery; but the Plot was discover'd and the Conspirators either kill'd or ba∣nish'd, upon which he march'd to Citta di Castello. The Florentines also moved to Aughiera, a Town in their Dominions, to help their Countrymen, if Picenninus should offer 'em any violence. These things pass'd in Tuscany, whilst Francis Sfortia conquer'd Philip's Navy at the

Lago di Garda (of which Italiano Furlano was Admiral) and not onely raised the Siege from before Brescia and Bergamo, but the same Summer vanquish'd Philip's Army at Soncino having taken one thousand five hundred Horse, and in a short time took and subdu'd all the Castles of Brescia, part of Cremona, and Mantoua, with all Gerradadua, and made them tributary to the Venetians. At that time the Prince of Mantoua lost Asola, Lonato, and Pescheria, three Towns of a good bigness without opposition: for when Picenninus was absent, he never durst engage with an Enemy in the open Field. But Picenninus hearing how the state of Affairs was alter'd in Venice, and being sent for by many Messengers and Letters as well from Philip, as the Prince of Mantoua; as also being tired out with the importunities of the Soldiers who were most of 'em Natives of that part of Italy which is near the Alps, he re∣moved his Camp from Cita di Castello to Borgo di Sancto Sepolcro, a Town in his Territories, which lies over against Angliera: with design either by compulsion or stratagem, to fight the Florentines and the Pope's Army, that lay (as I told you) near Angliera. On the 29 of June (S. Peter and S. Paul's day) Picenninus set his Army in Array, which took up a Plain of four thousand paces, but was unfortunately forc'd to choose a disadvantageous place to fight in, (because he under∣stood, that the common Soldiers of the Enemy were gone a foraging, and was not willing to lose the opportunity) For he was to go up the side of an Hill, and so his Enemies upon the higher ground easily kept him off. Yet they fought five hours very smartly, till at last Picenni∣nus, what with the multitude of his Enemies and the folly of his Son Francis, who had forsaken his Post, was overcome, and retreated to Borgo with great damage and the loss of his Ensigns. And the next day leaving Borgo in the hands of the Townsmen and some few of his Soldiers that survived the Battel, he went back through Romagna to Philip. The Townsmen of Borgo fearing they might be hardly dealt withal, because they had revolted from the Pope, employ'd Agents to get their Pardon, and surrender'd themselves to the Legat without loss of limbs or goods. That Victory was very welcom both to Eugenius and the Florentines; and they say Alonisius Patavinus was made a Car∣dinal for that reason. The same Summer the Florentines beat Count Poppio who was Picenninus's Ally, out of Tuscany. But Philip who was environ'd with so many Enemies, fought out for forein Aid, and entreat∣ed Alphonso, who had got possession of the Kingdom of Naples, to storm all the Towns which the Sfortians had in that Kingdom; to draw Francis Sfortia from the Venetians. Alphonso comply'd with his request, but never could recal Francis from the War that he was engaged in. For he, when a sufficient quantity of forage came in, march'd from Pe∣scheria to Brescia with fifteen thousand Horse, and six thousand Foot, and met Picenninus at Cignano, with a design to fight him. Picenninus was as willing to fight as he, and though he had a less number of Men, yet they were stout Fellows and he rely'd upon their Valour. They fought briskly for some time, and parted upon equal terms. Francis thinking he had gotten honour enough in the Wars, for that he had challenged his Enemy into the Field, lead his Army round the Country and retook several Towns which Picenninus had taken that Winter, and made them subject to the Venetians. From thence he went to Mar∣tinengo,

which Picenninus had fortified with a strong Garrison, and be∣sieged it. But when Picenninus had augmented his Army by the arrival of Francis his Son, and the Prince of Mantoua, he went thither and pitch'd his Camp a mile off the Enemy, provoking him by Skirmishes to come and decide the matter in a set Battel: but he not now desiring to fight the Enemy in the Field, grew wholly intent upon taking the Town. Picenninus therefore removed his Camp every day so much nearer the Enemy, and put Francis in such dangerous circumstances, that neither his Soldiers could forrage, nor any Provisions be sent in, nor the Army march out from the place, without apparent danger: and just then be∣yond all hopes there was a Peace declared, which had been in agita∣tion between Philip and Francis by the mediation of one Eusebiolus sur∣named Chain, without Picenninus's knowledg. When Picenninus heard of it, he exclaim'd at Heaven and Earth, and Philip's inconstancy, who with a certain Victory before him desired Peace like a conquer'd Per∣son. The Armies departing, the Peace was declared at Capriana, in the year 1442, upon these terms; That Francis should marry Blanch the Daughter of Philip, and have with her, as a Dowry, Pontremoli and Cremona with all the Country belonging to it, except Picigitono and the Castles which the Mantouan, and Pallavicini possess'd: and that all those places that Philip, and his Allies had taken, as also the Venetians and their Confederates (except Asola, Lonato, and Pescheria which were the Prince of Mantoua's before that War) should be restored: and he that would not accept of these Articles, should be look'd upon as a common Enemy. Eugeneus lik'd not this Peace; because Francis had neglected him whilst he talk'd of restoring what was lost, without mentioning Bologna, which Picenninus had possession of; wherefore he resolv'd to go from Florence to Rome, and there advise concerning the recovery of the Church Patrimony, because that was a place where he might take more freedom. But that he might find all things quiet, he sent Alouisius Pa∣tavinus, Cardinal of S. Laurence before, to put out the Seculars and restore the Canons regular to the Lateran, who had been expelled by the Secular Priests, upon a Controversie that was between 'em, who should carry the Body of Christ upon Corpus Christi day in Procession. Gino Albanese an excellent Soldier was put to death because he would have broken the Peace between Eugenius and Alphonso. Palus Lamolara also a stout Man, of whose parts he was jealous, was also put to death. And when things were setled in this manner, Eugenius came to Rome September 28. 1443. (though the Florentines did all they could to keep him there) being met by all the City with all the veneration ima∣ginable, and lay that night at the Porta del popolo. And the next Day as he was going to S. Peters to Prayers, as the custom is, he walk'd in his Pontifical Robes through the City, and heard the People were in a mutiny for that the Taxes were doubled, and a new Impost laid upon Wine. Thereupon he commanded silence, and in the presence of 'em all, abolish'd that Exaction as tyrannical: at which they immediately cry'd out, Long live Eugenius; whereas before they had cry'd, Down with these new Gabells, the inventors of them. After nineteen Days he went to the Lateran, and declared he would hold a General Council there, and sent Letters and Messengers to acquaint the several Princes with his Design. For he had a mind to weaken and destroy the Council

of Basil by this means. When things were thus composed at Rome, he remember'd the injuries he had receiv'd, and sent Picenninus the Gene∣ral against the Anconeses (whom Francis had subdu'd) who going from Bologna toward Perugia made those of Tiferno who were Allies of the Floretines, revolt, to gratifie Eugenius who was angry with the Floren∣tines, for supplying Francis with Mony to oppose him and keep An∣cona. Alphonso too, who the year before had long besieged Naples and at last through a Common-shore got into the Town and taken it, beat∣ing out René of Anjou, was so far taken with the same and courage of Picenninus that he not onely chose him General of his Army, but, to honour him the more, adopted him into the Family of Aragon: who as soon as he had receiv'd Money of Eugenius and Alphonso to defray the War, went into Ancona, and reduced many Towns to the Church, which Francis Sfortia, who was come thither with a good Army from Cre∣mona, vainly strove to defend. About that time John Francis Gonzaga dy'd, and the Venetians and Florentines who were concern'd for the time to come, made Lewis Gonzaga, Son and Heir to John Francis, their Sti∣pendiary, that he, if occasion were, might oppose Philip. In the mean time things were pretty quiet in those parts of Italy that lie next the Alps, when Hannibal Bentivoglio, who was kept Prisoner sometime in the Castle of Pelegrini, by command from Picenninus, for suspicion of a Conspiracy, escaped and went back to Bologna where he excited the People to liberty and seiz'd Francis Picenninus, Governour of the City, and all his Men. Which done, he recall'd all the Exiles whether of his own or the contrary Faction, especially one Baptista Canedolus by name. After which the Bolognians sent Embassadours to the Venetians and Florentines to desire their Alliance. Which the Embassadours ha∣ving obtein'd they returned home, and presently took the Castle (which was yet in the Enemies hands) by the help of those recruits that were sent 'em from their Friends, and as soon as they had taken destroy'd it, chasing Alouisius Vermes out of Bologna. Then Philip taking it ill that the Bolognians should be in League with the Venetians and Florentines, hired some Friends of Baptista, promising them assistance, to take Han∣nibal off, that themselves and their Faction might be sole Governours in the City. And Canedolus who was ready at Roguery, prevailed with a certain Man of Bologna (who had a Son accidentally then newly born) to choose Hannibal Godfather: and the next Day the Child was carried to be Christen'd; which being over, the Father of the Child invited Han∣nibal to S. John's Church, because it was S. John's Day. Hannibal comply'd with the Traitor in that too, not thinking of any Design; but in the way thither he was set upon by a company of the Conspira∣tors that got about him, and was slain, though two Servants that he had, who loved him, did what they could to defend him. But the people of Bologna, when they knew it were so concern'd for the indig∣nity, that they presently took up Arms and kill'd all the chief of the Canedolian Faction, particularly Baptista, whose body they dragg'd through the City and buried it very ignominiously. At the same time also there happen'd a great piece of villany to be acted at Rome: for Angellottus Cardinal of S. Marks was deprived of his life and all the Money that he had so covetously gathered and scraped together, by his own Valet de Chamber. The Villain was taken and tortur'd to Death,

and then being cut into four parts was hang'd upon the four Gates of the City. But the Venetians and Florentines fearing, lest Bologna, which was very commodiously seated for both of 'em in time of War, should fall into Philip's hands, sent immediately some Troops thither to as∣sist them. The Venetians were not out in their guess; for Philip de∣signed to send Picenninus thither with an Army, at the request of the Exiles, if he had not dy'd before he could set out. They say he dy'd for grief, that his Son Francis, whom he had left behind him in Ancona, when Cardinal Firmanus was Legat, was vanquish'd by Francis Sfortia. But the year after Philip took courage and advised Eugenius to endea∣vour the recovery of Bologna, promising to supply him with Men, and bear his share in the charge of the War. By which the Pope was so wrought upon, that he made a League with Alphonso, and sent Sigismund Malatesta with a great body of Horse into Ancona against Francis; that when the Florentines were otherwise imploy'd, Bologna might be forced to surrender. Now Philip had sent William Montferrat and Charles Gonzaga before with a great Army; who entering the Territory of Bo∣logna in an Hostile manner plunder'd all before 'em. But the Floren∣tines who were concern'd for the danger of their Allies, dispatch'd A∣storgius Faventinus with one thousand five hundred Horse and two hun∣dred Foot, to aid the Bolognians till farther order from them and the Venetians. Things stood thus in Romagna; when Philip, on the sudden, sent for Francis Picenninus from Ancona, and gave him order to go with a great Army upon May Day, against the Cremoneses who apprehended no such thing. He went as he was commanded, and took a great many of the Country Fellows, and strook such terrour into the Citizens by battering their Walls both Night and Day, that he had very near taken the City. But the Venetians and Florentines were troubled at the dan∣ger, which Francis and their Friends were in, and resolv'd to defend Cremona and Bologna at the same time, and sent Tibertus Brandolinus a very active Commander, who taking along with him the Bologneses, and the Auxiliaries from Florence march'd toward the Enemy (who did not well agree among themselves, and were encamp'd at a Town call'd St. John's) and when he had brought William Monferrat over to the Bo∣lognians by Promises and Presents, and easily routed Charles, he quick∣ly retrieved all the Towns which the Enemy had in their hands. Bo∣logna being thus quieted, and the Auxiliaries of Florence and Venice divided, by order, into two parts, the one half were sent to avoid Francis Sfortia whom Eugenius and Alphonso had beaten as far as the Walls of Ʋrbino▪ and the other half to the Cremoneses who were hard put to it by Francis Picenninus. The Venetians resolving upon an open rupture with Philip, sent Embassadours to him, to denounce War unless he would desist from the Siege of Cremona. But they were answer'd by a Messenger (for they could not speak with Philip himself) that they might be safer any where, than at Millain. At which the Venetians were very angry and commanded Michelot Cotignola their General, who was then at Brescia, to march forthwith into Cremona, (which Philip had got most part of,) and engage the Enemy wherever he met them. He readily obey'd their Commands, and passing the River Oglio at Casale with all expedition, found the Enemy encamped upon the Po in an Island, which having forded, he attack'd them in their Camp, and soon rout∣ed

them, taking a great part of their Cavalry. After that he recover'd all the Towns, and freed Cremona from the Siege, and having augment∣ed his Army by Lewis Gonzaga's additional Forces (who had reduced Platina, and some Castles in Cremona to the Venetians) they march'd toward Geradada, and left nothing for Philip but Crema. Then cros∣sing the River they entred Millain, filling all places with fire and rapine. And when they had taken Monte di Briausa and Brevio, where there is a Bridg over the Adda, they attaqued Leco which those within stoutly defended, and batter'd their Ships so severely that whole Men might have got in at the sides of 'em; so that having lost many Men, and being in great want of Forage, they were fain to depart without accomplish∣ing their Design, for fear of Francis Sfortia, who they heard was pri∣vately gone over to Philip's Party. Mean time Aloisius Patavinus the Pope's Legat, General of the Forces which went against Francis Sfortia, into Ancona, hearing that Italiano and James Gatuano (who had fought partly under Philip and partly under Eugenius) were revolting to Fran∣cis, he commanded them to be taken before they could arrive there, and put to Death: for both of 'em had one thousand five hundred Horse under them. Francis Sfortia was much concern'd at that, and finding him∣self not able to sustein the shock of his Enemies any longer, being set upon by so many at a time, and assisted by no body, by the persuasions of Eugenius and Alphonso▪ who envied the Venetians success, he left An∣cona, and went into Philip's Army, over which he was made General. Eugenius, now, lest he should seem to mind nothing but War, made Ni∣colas Tolentinas of the Order of S. Austin, who was famous for Miracles, a Saint, and went personally in Procession from S. Peter to S. Austin's attended by all the Clergy▪ the Roman People and the Cardinals. After that he expelled the Canons Secular from the Lateran and admitted onely the Regulars. He also built the Portico, that goes from that Church to the Sancta Sanctorum, and repaired the Cloister for the Priests to live in. He also augmented the painting of the Church which Mar∣tin had formerly begun; and carried the Mitre of S. Sylvester, which was brought to Rome from Avignion, in his own hands from the Vati∣can to the Lateran with great veneration of all the Priests and People of Rome. Afterward King Alphonso came to Tivoli and would have treated with Eugenius about the management of the War, but he heard he was sick and so-stay'd for some time there. Eugenius had a great mind to have plagu'd the Florentines for helping his Enemies: and doubt∣ed not but, if he attaqued them with his own, the King's, and Philip's Forces all together, he might bring that City to what he pleased. But all his Designs were frustrated by his Death; for he dy'd in the sixteenth year of his Pontificate, February 23. 1446. He was a Man of great in∣constancy; at the beginning of his Reign, he was led away by ill Counsels and disturb'd all things, to that degree, that he incited the Roman People to War, and gave Authority to the Council of Basil (which was the original of much mischief) by approving of their Decrees in Letters Apostolical. But in process of time when he came to himself, he acted very prudently and with good resolution. He had a very venerable aspect; but was rather grave than eloquent in his Speech; an indifferent Scholar, though a knowing Man, especially in History. He was bountiful to all, more especially Learned Men, whose com∣pany

he loved; For he admitted Leonard Aretinus, Charles Poggius, Au∣rispa Trapezuntius, and Blondus, very learned Men, to be his Secretaries. He was not easily provoked to anger for injuries done him, or by the Calumnies, jibes or scoffs of any. He was a great Patron of all Schools especially that at Rome, where he had all kind of Learning taught. He loved the Religious wonderfully and gave 'em many Priviledges, besides Revenues which he added to their foundations. But he loved War so much (which a Man would admire in a Pope) that besides what I have told you of his Actions in Italy, he instigated the Dolphin, Son to Charles the French King (having first made Peace between that King and the Duke of Burgundy) to go with a great body of Horse against those of Basil. He did so, and routed the Assembly. And afterward he sent Ʋladislaus King of Poland along with Julian Caesarinus against the Turks: of whom thirty thousand were slain in one Battel between Adrianople, and the Danube, though the King indeed himself and the Cardinal too, was kill'd at the same time. He was accounted very strict to his word, unless when he had promised a thing which it was better revoke than perform. He kept a very good House, and yet lived on a spare Diet himself, and was so great a stranger to Wine, that he was properly cal∣led, the Abstemious. He had but very few familiar Friends, but they were all learned Men, whose Counsel he made use of in great matters; and used to admit into his Chamber at Supper-time, to be as witnesses of his sober Conversation. And then he would ask 'em, what news in the City, what People thought of his Government since he had been Pope, that he might correct any Errour, if ought were amiss either in his own Person or any body else. He endeavoured to adorn the Church with Buildings and Chappels as appears by the Pope's Chappel and the bra∣zen Door of S. Peter's Church. But he dy'd, (as I told you) after he had done many great Actions, in the sixty fourth year of his age, and was buried in S. Peter's Church, under a Marble Tomb, upon which there are these Verses;

Eugenius jacet hic Quartas, Cor nobile cujas Testantur vitae splendida facta suae. Istius ante sacros se praebuit alter ab ortu, Alter ab occasa Caesar uterque pedes. Alter ut accipiat Fidei documenta Latinae, Alter ut aurato cingat honore caput. Quo duce & Armenii, Graiorum exempla fecuti, Romanam agnorunt Aethiopesque fidem. Inde Siri ac Arabes, mundique è finibus Indi. Magna, sed haec animo c••ncta minora su••. Nam valida rursum Teucros jam classe petebat, Dum petit ast ill••m sustulit atra Dies. Qui semper vanos tumuli contemp••it honores: Atque hac impressa condita dixit humo. Sed non quem rubro decoraverat ille galero, Non hoc Franciscus stirps sua clara tulit. Susceptique memor meriti, tàm nobile, quod nunc Cernis, tàm praestans surgere jussit opus.

After his Death the Seat was vacant twelve days.

NICOLAS V.

NICOLAS the Fifth, formerly called Thomas Sarzana, a Town in the Territory of Lucca, was chosen Pope by gene∣ral consent, March 6. 1447. Who though he were a Man but of mean extract (his Mothers name was Andreola, and his Father's Bartholomew a Physician) yet he was worthy of the Pon∣tificate for his Virtue, Learning, Courtesie, good Nature, Liberality and Magnificence; notwithstanding all which he was so modest, that he thought himself undeserving of so great an Honour, and desired the Cardinals to take better care for the Church of God. But when the Cardinal of Tarento exhorted him not to resist the Holy Ghost, he sub∣mitted his shoulders to the burthen, and took it upon him. The Car∣dinal of Portugal being ask'd (as 'tis usual) coming out of the Con∣clave, Who they had made Pope? He answer'd, We did not choose Nicolas, but God has. There are who say, that this Thomas was born at Pisa, brought up at Lucca, and made a Scholar at Bologna, especially in Philosophy and Divinity which he learn'd under Nicolas Albergate, Cardinal of S. Cross, who was extreamly pleased with the Youths in∣genuity, and parts. For which reason he, in his Popedom, assumed the name of Nicolas, because it was the name of one who had deserv'd very well of him. Having gain'd his Degree in the University, by a probation in the most acute Controversies, the Cardinal of S. Cross made him Steward of his Houshold, and of the Clerks of the Peniten∣tiary, till he got a Pontifical Sub-Deaconship by his good Life and Con∣versation, which all People admired, and then he began to think of greater matters. For Eugenius, who knew his Learning and integrity (especially by the Disputations that he had with the Greeks at Florence and Ferrara) had at that time design'd him for a Cardinal. But that he might do it with better pretensions, he sent him into Germany along with John Carvagialla (who was afterward Cardinal of S. Angelo) to dissolve the Council of Basil, and the neutrality. For the Germans were called Neuters, because they would obey neither Felix nor Eugenius; by which means the Church of God suffer'd greatly, and the Papacy lost something of its grandieur. There were frequent meetings to di∣spute that Point before Frederick King of the Romans, by the persuasions of Aeneas Picolhomineus, who was afterward Pope; but at that time only Secretary to the King. And indeed they found it hard to remove the Ger∣mans from their Opinion, though it was altogether false: as on the other side it was difficult to induce Eugenius's Agents to comply with the German Proposals. At last the Agents being mollified, and the requests of the Germans moderated, they had certainly put an end to the Schism and Neutrality (which was so pernicious to the Sea of Rome) if the Germans would have stood to their Promise. So that the Legats went back to Eugenius with that Opinion and were made Cardinals by ge∣neral agreement; to whom Eugenius sent their Hats whilst they were yet at the Porta del popolo, that they might come with greater honour

into the City. Thus in one and the same year Thomas got to be Bishop of Bologna, Cardinal and Pope, to the great satisfaction of the Clergy and People of Rome. And yet when the Cardinals were in the Conclave, there was a small bustle in the City by the instigation of Stephen Por∣caro a Roman Knight, and an eloquent, ingenious Man, who calling his Companions about him into the Church, called Ara Coeli, encouraged 'em to assert their Liberty: for he said that every petit Town (when the Lord of it was dead) was us'd to talk of Liberty, or at least, of limi∣ting the Power of their Governours. But nothing was done to that pur∣pose, because the Arch-Bishop of Benevento then Vice-Chamberlain, was against it. The Romans also feared King Alphonso, who stay'd at Tivoli after Eugenius was dead, and was in doubt with himself, whether he should go back, or make War against the Florentines, as he, Euge∣nius, and Philip had formerly a design to do. And whilst he delibe∣rated, two Sieneses, that got their livings by setting People together by the ears, persuaded him to attempt the Government of Tuscany: which he might easily obtain, if he were once Master of Siena, which would surrender it self upon his arrival there. The King commended the Sieneses, and sending them away to solicite their Fellow-Citizens, he promised them to be there in such a time. But Nicolas the Pope, who was a lover of peace and quietness, after he had kept his Coronation (as the fashion is) and made many Processions on foot in his own Person, he sent Cardinal Morinensis to Ferrara, (a place which being neutral was fit for the Treaty) that by the persuasion and Authority of his Legat, the Factions might be the more induced to a composure. Thither also did Alphonsa, Philip, the Venetians and Florentines send their Embassa∣dours, who after a long Debate gave Philip leave to choose, whether he would make a Truce with the Venetians and Florentines for five years (both sides keeping what they had▪) or conclude a Peace, and change Crema for those Towns which the Venetians had taken upon the River Adda; leaving onely Cassan at the Pope's disposal, as being his due by compact, to make amends for the injuries which he first received. But that also was afterward thrown in, to make the Peace more lasting. And one of Philip's Embassadours was sent to make the Proposal to him; who found him dead of an Apoplexy the day before he came to Millain, August 8. 1447. Morinensis, hearing of Philip's death, sent for all the Embassadours in haste to his House, and urg'd for Peace as earnestly as ever. The Venetians, when they were ask'd if they would continue of their former Opinion, made answer, That they could not tell what they might do now Philip was dead, but that they would write to the Senate concerning that Affair, and do as they should order them. In the mean time the other Embassadours that were there, knowing the Vene∣tians ambition to govern all Italy, dissolv'd the Assembly and went every one to their own Home, the Pope's Legat exhorting them to Concord, but all in vain. But the Venetians, whose Camp was at Sorefina near Cre∣mona, in hopes to take that tumultuous City by surrender with the help of the Guelphs, when they heard of Philip's death march'd presently to Lody; which having taken, they receiv'd those of Piacenza into their Alliance upon the same terms as them of Lodi; and sent one thousand five hundred Horse thither immediately to assist the people of Piacenza if any body should molest 'em. Francis Sfortia, who at that time was

beaten out of Ancona and quartered in Bologna, to refresh his Army, whose Arms, Horses, and Men were almost spent with this long War, when he heard that the Venetians had seiz'd all upon his Father-in-law's death, went great days Journeys till he came to Cremona, and was chosen General by the universal consent of the Millaineses over all their Forces against the Venetians. And having made a Bridg over the River Po, which he fortified with Castles and Artillery, to hinder the Venetians from coming with a Navy to Piacenza, he passed the Adda at Picigitono, and encamp'd not far from the Enemy who lay at Camurago. And there they had some light Skirmishes to try, I suppose, the Enemies courage. The People of Pavia were so much encouraged at Francis's coming, and so glad to see him, because they hated to be subject to the Millaineses upon an old grudg that was between them, and on the other hand, would rather suffer any thing than submit to the Venetians, who had formerly despised their Alliance, insomuch that they deliver'd their City up to Francis without any more ado by consent of the Governour of the Castle: which was such an Addition to his grandieur that Sfortia pre∣sently affected to be Lord of the whole Dutchy of Millain. These things passed in Lombardy and thereabouts, whilst Alphonso at the same time fell down with his Army into the Sea-coast of Siena, and had subdued them (though the Pope was against it) had not the Florentines, who knew the King's intention, sent a Messenger to Siena, to advise them, that Alphonso who was covetous of Dominion, was no less their Enemy than the Florentines. The Sieneses hearing what danger they were in, they did not deny the King any kind of provisions, but yet they would not suffer any of his Soldiers to come within their Walls. So that the King when he observ'd their caution, march'd down into Volaterra, and Pisa, and took many Castles there partly by surrender and partly by storm: which yet the Florentines recover'd not long after, all but Ca∣stiglione, under the command of Sigismund Malatesta, whom they had corrupted to come over from Alphonso to their side. In the mean time Ni∣colas the Pope continually persuaded the King and the Venetians to Peace rather than War; but they, who were grown proud and unruly would not hearken to his good Advice. Thereupon Francis raised a great Army, out of the main strength of Italy, (uniting the Brachian and Sfor∣tian Soldiers) and pitch'd his Camp in the middle of Autumn at Pia∣cenza, in which was a good Garrison of Venetians, and beating down part of the Walls with Cannon he stay'd before it so long till the Po rose to that prodigious heighth that his Galeoones came up to the very Walls, and so attacking it both by Land and Water, at last he took and plunder'd it. This was a great Honour to Francis, to take so great a City and that in the Winter-time, when it rained so hard, that the Soldiers were ready to leave their Tents. Yet Nicolas was even then still talking of Peace, and the Florentines were urgent with their Allies the Venetians, because they fear'd the King's Power, who was then with his Army in Tuscany. But nothing was done in it, because the Venetians were unwilling to restore Lodi to the Millaineses which they earnestly sought. So that Nicolas after so many attempts to no purpose, laid aside all thoughts of making Peace by such means, and applying himself to religious exer∣cises, he order'd Days of Humiliation to be kept for appeasing God's anger, and Prayers for the Peace of Christendom. And at the So∣lemnities

the Pope himself assisted with all the Clergy in Procession from S. Peter's to S. Mark's, with great Piety and Religion. But the wrath of God was not abated for all that, so much had Men probably deserved it. For two years after there was such a Plague in almost all places, that few survived out of great numbers. And this Calamity was fore∣told by frequent Earthquakes, and an Eclipse of the Sun: nay it had been often foretold by the Friers Predicants; especially, one Robert a Franciscan, and famous Preacher, who so moved the people of Rome with his Sermons that the Women and Children ran about the City de∣siring God to be merciful unto them. And least any misfortune should be lacking in Italy, the Wars which we told you were begun before did so increase, that one would have thought it impossible to have put an end to them. For Francis Sfortia (the next Summer) having taken some Castles from the Venetians, went with his Land and Sea-forces a∣gainst their Navy which block'd up the Cremoneses, and forced it to re∣tire to Casal: thither also he follow'd it, and with his Cannon disabled all their Ships as they lay in the Harbour, driving the Admiral of Ve∣nice to such despair that he burn'd his Navy, which he could not keep, and ran into the Town as fast as he could. Francis then went from thence, and took no farther care about Cremona, having destroy'd the Enemies Navy; but march'd toward Geradada, and encamp'd before Caravagio which was well fortified by the Enemies. The Venetians moved thither too, fearing they should lose their reputation, if the Millaineses took the Town, and therefore they lay about a mile off the Enemy, and shew'd the Townsmen that if occasion were they would come in and assist them. They had Skirmishes every day, they were so near one another: but when they came to joyn Battel, it happen'd to be in a narrow way surrounded with Fens, where the Vanguard of the Venetians was so straighten'd, that they could not give back (as sometimes in War, it may be convenient to do) nor yet fight, the Ene∣my came so thick upon them, insomuch that they must of necessity have perish'd, if the Reer had not begun to run away. Francis pursu'd 'em as they gave ground, and not onely made himself Master of their wealthy Camp but took about five thousand Horse and Foot. After that the Brachians were, without Francis his consent, ordered by the Millaineses to attaque Lodi, and he moved toward Brescia with his Army and besieged it. Which so alarm'd the Venetians, that they con∣cluded themselves lost, if they did not make Peace with Francis, now he had a quarrel with the Millaineses; and a Peace they did make upon condition, That joyning their Forces against the Millaineses, all that they should take beyond the River Adda and Po should be Francis's, and that on this side the Adda, should be the Venetians: that they should allow him (the Florentines and the Venetians betwixt 'em) six∣teen thousand pounds a month, and send him in aid still, till he got pos∣session of Millain. Having made this League and drawn what Com∣manders he could to his side by Promises and Presents, he turn'd toward the Millaineses, and took most of their Cities by surrender. At this success of his the Venetians were so concern'd, when they saw his for∣tune much better than they expected, that they took Crema according to agreement and recalling all their Soldiers they made Peace with the Mil∣laineses, as fearing the power of Francis, if he once got into Millain.

But Francis pretended a kindness to the Venetians, and being assisted and supply'd more out of Cosmo di Medices's private Pocket than out of the Treasury of Florence, after a long and tedious Siege, and many bloody Skirmishes, in the middle of Winter, though some of his Men forsook him and joined with the Enemy, and Alphonso was against him, who claimed Millain as his Birthright (and therefore kept Lewis Gonzaga in pay, whom he sent against the Bolognians, that his Men might pass with more safety into Lombardy) he at last took Millain in the year 1449. 'Tis true, the Venetians did assist the Millaineses, under the conduct of Sigismund Malatesta (who was to join with Picenninus, that fought un∣der the Millaineses) but after such a lame rate, that they were famish'd and yielded up the City rather to the Venetians than to Francis. Where∣fore the Venetians seeing the thing went quite contrary to their expecta∣tion, they treated with Alphonso, who was an utter Enemy to Francis, and made a League with him, to rout the ambitious Man out of Millain before he grew too strong. They also sollicited the Florentines to do the same; who said they would never be against Francis, and therefore the Venetians banish'd their Merchants out of their Dominions, and pre∣vailed with Alphonso to do the like. Nicolas the Pope, seeing all Italy in Arms, did often interpose his Authority to make a Peace, that all people might come the next year freely out of all Europe to the Jubilee; for the fiftieth year was acoming wherein the Jubilee was to be cele∣brated after the usual manner. Besides he made six Cardinals, of which number were Latinus, Ʋrsinus, and his own Brother by the Mothers side, called Philip, Cardinal of S. Laurence in Lucina, a very good Man and of a generous disposition. Mean time Frederick the Emperour, at the Pope's request, forced Felix to renounce the Popedom, because he saw how pernicious and destructive so much Sedition had been to the Church of Rome. Yet Nicolas was so civil and kind to Amadeus, that he sent him a Cardinals Hat, with Legantine Power in Germany, that he might not live without some Honour at least. And those Car∣dinals also which Amadeus had made, submitted. This agreement of theirs did so rejoyce not onely all the Clergy, but the people of Rome, that the Night after they heard of it, April 23. 1449. they rode about the City with Flambeaus in their Hands, and cry'd out, Long live Ni∣colas. The Pope, that he might not seem unthankful to God for so ex∣traordinary a benefit, went publickly to Prayers in the Vatican along with the Clergy and the people. The like was done all Italy over, when they saw the Church of God freed from such a pernicious Sedition. Nay the Pope's Authority and esteem was so great, that he restrain'd even Princes for some time, when they had a mind to make War. For James Picenninus, Sigismund Malatesta, and Charles Gonzaga, who were Francis Sfortia's bitter, mortal Enemies, incited the Venetians to that War. The Venetians also had drawn the Duke of Savoy into their Alliance, together with the Marquis of Montferrat and the Lords of Corregio: and try'd to bring over the Bolognians and those of Perugia, but in vain, for the Pope was against it and threaten'd 'em with his displeasure if they offer'd to do it. They likewise indented with Alphonso, that whilst they attaqued Francis, he should engage the Florentines. But Francis relying upon the friendship and power of the Florentines, and having taken Lewis Gon∣zaga Prince of Mantoua into his Alliance, he prepared himself with cou∣rage

for the War. Hence arose great Animosities between Charles and Lewis, that Lewis should court his Alliance, who was Charles's Ene∣my, and because he had kept some Towns from him which his Father left him by his Will. For Lewis was his Brother's security when he was once arrested for eighty thousand pounds; and Charles having no mind to part with his Land, he chose rather to pay the Money to Francis (who was for Money or Towns either) and keep the Towns in his own hands, as being near and conveniently situated. For this reason Charles blamed his Brother and accused him as a Robber, not onely to the Ve∣netians, on whose side he was, but to the Emperour, by whose assistance he expected to have right done him. And now the Year of Jubilee was come, when such a multitude of people flock'd to Rome, as never were seen there before; So that, when they came from seeing our Saviours Picture, in the Vatican, back into the City, a Mule which was in the way, belonging to Peter Barbus, Cardinal of S. Mark's, was throng'd to death, and two hundred Men and three Horses trodden to Dirt and suf∣focated in the crow'd upon the Bridg near S. Angelo. Besides many that fell from the sides of the Bridg into the River and perish'd in the Water. It is certain there were one hundred thirty six buried upon that occasion in S. Celsus's; and the rest carried to Campo Sancto. Here∣upon Pope Nicolas, who was heartily sorry for them, pull'd down cer∣tain little Cottages that straighten'd the way to the Bridg and spent most of that Year in Processions, daily visiting one noted Church or other, whither he was attended by all the Cardinals. He likewise took care, that though there were such a vast number of people, yet they should want nothing that was necessary for them: nor was he wanting with Curses and Guards to deter High-way Men from molesting those Strangers that came to the City at that time. The next year he heard that Frederick the Emperour was coming to the City, to receive his Imperial Crown, and to marry Leonora, Daughter to the King of Portugal, and Alphonso's Niece; wherefore he fortified the Gates and Towers of the City, as also the Castle of S. Angelo as well as he could, out of fear, I suppose, lest the Emperour's coming should make some new commotion there: he being naturally very timorous. For that reason he call'd all his Forces to Rome, and, to oblige the People, chose thirteen Senators, to govern the thirteen Wards of the City, and gave 'em thirteen Scarlet Gowns. The Emperour upon his arrival was met by thirteen Cardinals, with all the Nobility and Magistracy of the City, and having passed the Castle gate was saluted at S. Peter's, by the Pope himself: by whom he was con∣ducted into the Church, with his Empress Leonora, whom he had met at Siena lately arrived out of Spain, upon March 9. 1452. And from thence (after Mass said) they departed, and lodg'd in that House which stands by S. Peter's Stairs to this day, though it looks better than it did, because it was beautified at the cost and charge of the Cardinal of Constance. For some days after the Pope said Mass in his own Person, and blessed the Emperour and Empress after the usual manner at Wed∣dings, before the Bridegroom lies with his Bride: and presented them with the Crown Imperial upon the eighteenth of that month, in the same place. As the Emperour was going, after his Coronation, to S. John's, he made several Knights upon the Bridg at S. Angelo. Then he and his Empress went into Naples, to see King Alphonso, by whom he was

receiv'd with all splendour and magnificence; and afterward returning to Rome by Sea, he took his Journey immediately for his own Countrey, because he heard that some Princes in Germany and Hungary, were upon new Designs on the behalf of King Ladislaus (a fine young Gentleman) whom he had brought along with him. When he departed, two Car∣dinals attended upon him several miles, that is to say, the Cardinal of Bologna, who was the Pope's Brother and Carvagialla Cardinal of S. An∣gelo. Now when the Emperour was gone, the Venetians raised a great Army and march'd into Cremona, where they spoil'd all they came near, besieging Soncio and the adjacent Towns, which they not long after took, together with some Troops of Horse, that fell into their hands, because Francis had not his Men ready so soon as he should have had. But after that when Lewis Gonzaga his Friend and Ally came up, he went into Brescia and brought the Venetians to such an extremity that they durst not venture out of their Fens, to fight in the open Campaigne. For that reason the Venetians were willing to protract the time, as placing all their hopes of Victory in delays, because they thought Francis could not hold out long, at such a charge for want of Money. They likewise ho∣ped, that the Millaineses would think of their Liberty which he had late∣ly extorted from them, and, whilst Francis was engaged in such an im∣portant War, endeavour to shake off the yoke of servitude by some new commotions. Ferdinand, at this time by the command of his Fa∣ther Alphonso marched into Tuscany with about eight thousand Horse, and four thousand Foot, against the Florentines: and when he had tem∣pted Cortona to rebel, he took Foiano a Town near Arezzo after forty days Siege, with the loss of a great many Men on both sides. He march'd from thence into Siena, and after he had vainly attempted the taking of Castellina, he fell down into the Sea-coast of Siena to Winter, but took some Castles from those of Volaterra by the way. Sigismund Malatesta who was General of the Florentine Army observ'd his motions all along, with Design to take an opportunity of doing his business the more successfully. But the Florentines fearing the Power of Alphon∣so and the Venetians both by Sea and Land, resolv'd with the consent of Francis, to call in forein Aid; and upon that account they sent Angelus Accioiolus, a Knight, their Envoy into France, who, recounting the conti∣nual kindnesses between the Florentines and that Crown, induced him to command the Duke of Savoy and the Grisons, that had taken up Arms against Francis, not to injure the Friend and Ally of the Florentines ei∣ther by word or deed, if they would have him their Friend. He also persuaded Renatus to accept of his assistance by Men and Money, in order to retrieve the Kingdom of Naples, from whence he had been ex∣pelled by Alphonso: seeing the King was at that time engaged in the Flo∣rentine Wars. After this Embassy the Florentines and Francis grew so prosperous, that the Venetians were glad to make Peace, their Army which they had sent against the Prince of Mantua under the command of Charles Gonzaga, being routed not far from Godio: This Army had been raised and dispatch'd away under Gonzaga, to hinder the Mantuan and Brandoline, who were bringing together Forces for the service of Sforza, from joyning with him, by which means he would have easily been able to overcome their less powerful Army under Gentilis. Carvia∣galla came the year before to the Armies, to make Peace between them,

in the name of Nicolas; but went away without any satisfaction, calling both God and Man to witness, it was not long of Nicolas that a Peace was not setled in Italy, but that he was desirous it should be so, that War might be made against the Turks by the unanimous consent of Christendom. For he had heard that the Turks were making prepara∣tions against Constantinople, and therefore sent Cardinal Ruten thither, who was a Constantinopolitan born, to promise the Emperour and the Citizens his Assistance, if they would return to the Catholick Church, as they had promised in the Council of Florence. In the mean time Re∣natus, who was desirous to recover the Kingdom of Naples (in order whereunto Francis and the Florentines had promised him their assistance, if he would pass the Alps against the Venetians) attempted, but in vain, to make his way through Savoy with two thousand Horse, and having spent most of the Summer in that Affair, went another way to Savona, and so to Francis. Francis was so proud of the company of so great a King, and was so well recruited both as to Men and Courage, that he chased his Enemy into the Mountains of Brescia. And after that march'd round Brescia and Bergamo, where he took forty Towns partly by storm, and partly by surrender. But the Winter coming on, they all went into their Winter Quarters, and Renatus, leaving his Son at Florence, returned (much dissatisfied both with the Florentines and Francis) into France. All Peoples courage began now to cool with the Season▪ and the States and Princes finding their Treasuries almost exhausted with the continual charges of a War, they began to think of Peace, which Nicolas had formerly attempted: and the Venetians and Florentines who hated the licentiousness of the common Soldiers, were now mightily for it. Nicolas having just discover'd the conspiracy of Stephen Porcarius a Knight of Rome, neglected that Affair, though it were in a fair way, and apply'd himself to remove those civil Animo∣sities. For Stephen had more Courage than Power, and was a very great Master of his Mother-Tongue, and having made broad Signs that he would free his Country (as I told you) was banish'd by the Pope into Bologna, upon condition, that every day he should present himself to Nicen who was Governour of the City. But he pretending himself sick cheated the Governour, and by advise of the Conspirators went back to Rome in all haste, with a Design, as soon as he came thither to cry out Liberty to the People and seize upon the Pope and Cardinals. But whilst he lay down a little while, tired with the length of his Jour∣ney and much watching (for he had been some whole Nights with∣out sleep) he gave them opportunity and time to discover the Plot. When the Pope knew of his audacious Design, he presently sent James Lavagnolus, a Senator, a Veronese and Sub-Chamberlain with a Guard to take and put him into Prison. He hearing of their coming, fled to his Sisters House, and left Baptista Sarra, with a few Servants at his own; who being an active, bold Fellow, got both himself and his Companions out of the House and escaped without any hurt. But being inform'd whither Stephen was gone, they took him at his Sisters, where he lay hid in a Chest, and having confess'd the whole story of the Plot, they hang'd him under Castel S. Angelo. Angelus Massa and his Son had the same punishment in the Capitol, together with their Accomplice, Savus, having first read the Narrative of the Plot publickly, January 9. 1453.

After that he persecuted and destroy'd all the rest of the Conspirators, especially Francis Gabadeus, and Peter de Monterotundo, with Baptista Sarra who was deliver'd up to Justice by the Venetians. For to them had he fled after the Conspiracy was discover'd. But Nicolas who hi∣therto had treated the Romans with all Liberality and kindness, and went about the City with more freedom, than ever any Pope before him, was more cautious for the future, and more morose too not onely to all in general, but especially to the Romans: whom he would not admit to speak with him. Besides he had the Gout very severely; but no∣thing tormented him so much as when he heard that the Turk had ta∣ken Constantinople and Pera at one time, and that the Emperour of Con∣stantinople with many thousands more, was kill'd. He was afraid lest Cardinal Ruten might have been taken and kill'd too (whom he (I told you) sent thither) but he escaped in a disguise. The Pope had a mind to assist the Constantinopolitans with Soldiers and a Navy, as his Letters which he wrote to the Emperour do testifie: wherein among other misfortunes he blames them for their revolting from the Church, and their pretended affection to the Latines: but that City was taken so suddenly, that he had hardly any time to think of sending Aid. Be∣sides all these things, lest any thing should be lacking to torment him, the Count Aversus attaqued Norscia without his Order, being hired to do so by those of Spoleto: for those two People had a Controversie con∣cerning their Bounds. Hereupon he sent Angelus Ronco with the Church-Forces to stop the Count's passage, that he might not return to his own Towns. But he hearing that Angelus was in the fault that the Soldiers did not take the Count as he came back, he sent for him into Castel S. Angelo and put him to death at three of the Clock at Night. Some write, that Nicolas was very sorry for that Action, that the Governour of the Castle should execute what he in passion commanded him, so punctu∣ally. The Venetians now seeing it was to no purpose to talk of Peace, (for they had often attempted it) and fearing lest Francis should slight it by the persuasion of Lewis Gonzaga, they sent James Picennine their General, with a great body of Horse in all speed to Volta: which when he had taken and repelled Angelus into Godio (not without damage to Lewis, who was then sick there) they recalled him into his Winter-Quarters, thinking that Lewis was now sufficiently moved to seek Peace. In the mean time Simonetus, an Ermit, went up and down from one to the other, and persuaded sometimes the Venetians and sometimes Francis to Concord so long till he made 'em agree upon a Peace, which was publickly proclaimed, April 9. 1454. upon these terms, That e∣very one should have all that was theirs before the War restored to 'em, except Geradada and Gastiglione di Pescara, of which the former Francis had taken from the Venetians, and Alphonsus the later from the Floren∣tines. And to make it the stronger, as also that Alphonso might see, they had respect to him as a King, the Princes and States thought fit to send Embassadours to him: where when they arrived from all places, Dominicus Capranius, Cardinal of S. Crosses and great Penitentiary, (a Man of great Prudence and Authority) who was sent Legat from the Pope, by his exhortations and admonitions offering himself the Umpire for the Peace, he brought him at last to agree that the Peace which the Venetians and Francis had made, should be confirm'd, and assented to

by all Parties; and if any quarrel happen'd between them for the fu∣ture, that the Pope should have Power to decide it: as also that whoever should offer violence to the other, should be censur'd by the Pope, and rec∣kon'd a common Enemy. When therefore they had all taken an Oath to perform it, the Peace was confirm'd at Naples, about a year after the former Peace, which was accounted the most firm that ever our Ance∣stors knew. For all except the Genoeses joyn'd in it; but Alphonso could not agree with them by any means, because they promised him Tribute and did not pay it, as he said. There was also left a good pretence for a War either by the neglect or design of the Embassadours, which Al∣phonso made use of afterward against Sigismund Malatesta; that he should receive Money of Alphonso as a Soldiers pay, and yet fight under the Florentines against him. But Nicolas, the Pope, whether for grief at Constantinoples being taken, or whether of a Fever and the Gout where∣withal he was very much tormented, died in the eighth year of his Pontificate, 1455. and was buried in S. Peter's very honourably; upon whose Tombstone this Epitaph is deservedly inscribed;

Hic sita sunt quinti Nicolai antistitis ossa, Aurea qui dederat secula, Roma, tibi. Consilio illustris, virtute illustrior omni, Excoluit Doctos doctior ipse Viros. Abstulit errorem quo Schisma infecerat urbem Restituit mores, moenia, templa, domos. Tum Bernardino statuit sua sacra Senensi, Sancta Jubilei tempora dùm celebrat. Cinxit honore caput Frederici conjugis aureo Res Italas icto foedere composuit. Attica Romanae complura volumina linguae Prodidit, en! tumulo fundite thura sacro.

He was commendable for his Liberality toward all, especially Learned Men, whom he advanced with Money, Court-preferments, and Bene∣fices; whom he would sometimes put upon reading publick Lectures, sometimes upon writing some new thing, and sometimes upon transla∣ting Greek Authors into Latin, insomuch that the Greek and Latin Tongues which had lain hid for six hundred years, at last regain'd their splendour to some considerable degree. He also sent those Learned Men all over Europe to find out such Books, as had been lost either by the negligence of Antiquity, or the brutal fury of the barbarous Na∣tions. So that Poggius found out Quintilian; and Enoch Asculanus, Mar∣cus Caelius Appicius, as also Pomponius Porphyrio, a famous Writer upon Horace. Besides, he erected most stately Buildings in the City, and the Vatican: in the City, a noble House for Popes, near S. Marie the Greater, and repaired S. Stephen's Church that stands in the Mount di S. Giovanni, but built S. Theodores, that stands upon the Plain between the Palazzo Maggiore and the Campidoglio, from the ground. He like∣wise covered the roof of S. Mary the Round which stands in the middle of the City, an ancient Temple built by Agrippa, with Lead. And in the Vatican he not onely beautified the Pope's House after that man∣ner which we see, but he began the Walls of the Vatican, very large

and high, laying foundations for Towers, and a vast Superstructure, whereby to keep the Enemy from plundering the Pope's House, or St. Peter's Church, as formerly was often used. Furthermore, at the up∣per end of S. Peter's he began a great Gallery to make the Church more glorious, and hold more People. He also repaired Ponte Melle: and built a fine House at Viterbo near the Baths. Nor onely so, but he lent many others Money who were a building in the City; and by his order the Streets were paved. He was very Charitable, especially to Persons of Quality if they happen'd to be reduced to poverty; and gave poor Maids a competent Portion when they were married. He always received forein Embassadours very honourably and freely. He was ea∣sily anger'd, to say the truth, being a cholerick Man, but he was easily pleased again: and that gave some ill-natur'd People the occasion to carp at him, though he deserved extreamly well of God and Man. Then he was so far from Covetousness, that he never sold any Place, nor ever was guilty of Simony. He was kind to them, who had deserved well of himself and the Church of God, a lover of Justice, the Author and preserver of Peace, merciful to Offenders, a diligent observer of Cere∣monies, and would omit nothing belonging to Divine Worship. The Vessels of Gold and Silver, Crosses set with Jewels, Priestly Robes adorn'd with Gold and Pearls, the Arras Hangings interwoven with Gold and Silver and a Papal Crown are yet to be seen as Monuments of his Munificence. I do not mention the many holy Books that were transcribed by his Order and embossed with Gold and Silver: but you may see the Pope's Library, which was wonderfully augmented by his care, and at his charge. He was so kind to the Religious that he gave 'em a great deal of Money and Ecclesiastical Benefices besides; and Ca∣nonized S. Bernardine of Siena, a Frier Minor, because by his Preaching, Admonitions, and Reproofs, he had almost extinguish'd the Factions of Italy, that is to say, the Guelphs and the Gibelline Faction, and shew'd Christians the way to live well and happily: whose Body is now to be seen, and daily visited with great veneration, at Aquila.

CALIXTƲS III.

CALIXTƲS the Third, first called Alphonso Borgia, a Spa∣niard, born at Sativa in the Diocese of Valenza, (whose Father and Mother were called John and Francis, of a Gentile Family, and gave him good Education) was made Pope by consent of the Car∣dinals, April 8. 1455. First for his Education; he was but fourteen years old when, having laid the foundations of Learning elsewhere, he went to the University of Lerida, where he attained to such perfection, that in a short time he commenced Doctor in Civil and Canon Law, and made very learned Readings to those that came to hear him. So that Peter Luna (called Benedict the XIII.) on his own accord and without asking, gave him a Canonship of the Church of Lerida. And now be∣coming famous for his Learning he went to Alphonso King of Aragon; and was made his Secretary and one of his Privy Council. Afterward he

was made Governour of the Church of Majorca, and his Friends per∣suaded him to be Parson of that Church; he refused it, and said, he ex∣pected to be Bishop of Valenza, as not long after he deservedly came to be. For when Benedict the XIII. was dead, and those two Anti-Cardi∣nals, which I told you of in the life of Martin, had made one Giles, a Canon of Barcelona, Pope (in the room of the other that dy'd at Pani∣schola) whom they called Clement the eighth, Alphonso Boria was present∣ly sent thither by King Alphonso, (who was now agreed with Martin) not without apparent danger of his own life as well as those that atten∣ded on him: So tyrannically was Panischola kept, and govern'd by those chiefly whose interest it was to breed discord. This Alphonso then made Giles so sensible of his Errour by his Reason and Authority, that upon the arrival of Peter the Pope's Legat, he quitted the Popedom and sub∣mitted to the Papal jurisdiction. Upon this account Martin made Giles Bishop of Majorca, and Alphonso Bishop of Valenza. After that, when Wars arose between Alphonso of Aragon and James King of Castile, Alphon∣so Borgia was thought the onely fit Man, to go and exhort the two Kings to peace and amity; which after seven years Wars he procured, and made such a lasting Peace, by conjugal Alliances as well as other means, that some Conditions of that League are observed even to this day. But when the Council of Basil was at the heighth, King Alphonso, who was then at War in Naples, being desired to send some body thither, he order'd Alphonso Borgia to go: who taking it ill that a thing of such perni∣cious consequence should be committed to his management, he got leave of the Queen, to go into Italy to the King with Ferdinand the King's Son, and exhort him, that after so many dangerous expeditions, and difficul∣ties with which he was even at that time surrounded, he would return into his own Country. But the King told him he would not, but sent him to Eugenius, who was then at Florence, to treat concerning a Peace. For Viteleschus having enter'd the Kingdom of Naples in Eugenius's name with an Army, plunder'd and spoil'd all that came before him, to hinder the King from taking Naples, which at that time he laid Siege to. But the business taking up time, and the Pope intending in the mean time to make twenty Cardinals, among the rest design'd the Bishop of Valenza should be one: though he refused the honour with all the earnestness imaginable; because, he said, it was not fit for him to re∣ceive especially till he had done the business that he came for. Afterward Eugenius return'd to Rome, the Patriarch of Aquilegia, whom he sent to Tarracina to the King, having made a Peace between the Pope and the King, upon Conditions, at the making of which the Bishop of Va∣lenza was present, and interposed his Authority and care, for which the Pope began to love him so well, that he soon after made him Cardinal Sanctorum quatuor, and sent for him to Rome, where he used no less mo∣desty in his Cardinalate, than he had before in his Bishoprick, be∣ing always free and far from pomp and vain-glory. When he spoke in the Senate, he was reckon'd so grave and sincere a person that he never spake any thing out of flattery, or to win favour. But Eugenius dying and Nicolas after him, this Alphonso Borgia, as I told you, was made Pope in S. Peter's Palace, taking upon him the name of Calistus, and immediately proclaimed War against the Turks: shewing his own hand∣writing whereby he had vowed to do so even before his Pontificate in

a Book of his to this purpose; I Calixtus do vow to God and the Holy Trinity that I will persecute the Turks those Enemies of Christianity, with War, Curses, Interdictions, Execrations and by all the ways I am able. All that were by admired at it, that he should arrogate to himself the name of Pope before he had the honour conferr'd, and that a Man who was so old and decrepit, should have so much courage. But that he might really perform his promise, he sent Preachers through all Europe, to animate all Christians against the Turks, and to persuade such as were able to lend their helping hand in that momentous Expedition. And of these he sent sixteen Gallies full, built at Rome; over whom the Pa∣triarch of Aquilegia was Admiral, and harass'd the Sea-coasts of Asia for three years together; where he took several Islands, and did the Ene∣my a great deal of damage. King Alphonso, and the Duke of Burgundy also took upon them the Cross, and profess'd that they would either go against the Enemy in their own persons, or at least would raise Men to send. Yet this Affair as it was moved at an heat, so it as easily cool∣ed again, whilst the Princes indulged their pleasures and neglected that which would have gain'd them immortal Fame. Whilst the Pope was Crown'd in the Lateran, two Soldiers, one under the Earl Aversus, and the other under Neapolio Ʋrsin (Men of diverse factions and parties) who quarrelling about a young Lad, did so wound each other, that they both dy'd upon the spot. For that reason Neapolio, raising the Ʋrsine Faction, invaded the House where the Count Aversus lived: but the Count being from home, he would have gone to the Lateran, to seise him, but was with much ado kept back by his Brother Latinus, the Pope's Chamberlain. And indeed Neapolio could not have gone thither without great damage to the City, because all the Faction of the Colon∣neses, who favour'd the Count, were then in Arms. The Pope also had sent John Baruncellus, and Laelius de Valle (two Advocates of the Con∣sistory) to both of 'em, to make 'em Friends: so that by this means the present disturbance was appeased, but the old grudg betwixt them still remain'd. For they had many trials of Skill to the great disadvantage of their Adherents. The Pope however apply'd his mind to his Ponti∣fical Affairs, and Canoniz'd S. Vincent a Spaniard of the Order of Preachers, and S. Edmund of England: and upon that occasion said Prayers and Thanksgivings from Ecclesia Minervae to S. Peter's with a long train of Clergy and Laity following him. But lest any thing should be wanting to disturb the Church, some Country Fellows of Palombara a Town in Sabina, who were formerly banish'd thence by James Sebel∣lus, Lord of the place, return'd home, and killing two Sons of James's, promised to surrender the Town to the Church: which Calixtus not only refused to accept, but sent Cardinal Columna thither, to appease them. Neapolio fearing the Cardinal should seise Palombara in his own name, he went thither with his Army and besieged the Town for some days: Though when Matthew Poianus and Francis Sabellus with other Com∣manders came up by order from the Pope and the Cardinal, they raised the Siege, enter'd Palombara, and hang'd twenty of the Country Fel∣lows, of those especially that had made the disturbance, and quarter'd 'em, to give example to others, and warn 'em never to attempt so great a piece of Villany against their rightful Lords. Soon after appeared a Comet for some days hairy and red; of which when the Astrologers

said that it portended a great Plague, Dearth, or some mighty Slaughter, Calixtus appointed a Fast, for several days, to pray to God, that if any judgment hung over them, he would be pleased to avert and turn it up∣on the Turks the Enemies to Christianity. He gave order likewise that God should be supplicated every day, and that a Bell should be rung about Noon, to give people notice when they should joyn in Prayer for the Christians against the Turks. So that the Christians assisted by the Prayers of the whole Church, fought against the Turks at Belgrade un∣der the conduct of John the Vaivod an excellent Person, and John Capi∣stranus of the Order of Minors, bearing the holy Cross, and conquer'd 'em when they besieged Belgrade, six thousand of the Enemies being slain by a few of our Men, as Carviagalla, Cardinal of S. Angelo wrote to the Pope and to Dominick Capranicus Cardinal of S. Crosses: besides that all their Carriages and an hundred and sixty Guns were taken; a blow, that so much scar'd the Turk that he retir'd in haste to Constanti∣nople. And no doubt but that cruel, barbarous Nation had been de∣stroyed, if the Christian Princes would but have laid aside their civil A∣nimosities, and have pursu'd that great Conquest by Land and Sea, as Calixtus advis'd. But the Turk recovering strength took Trabisond, kil∣ling the Emperour, and then Bossina, where he took and slew the King. All wise Men perceiving as from a Watch-Tower, and advertising the Christians of the Calamities that were like to befal. Calixtus especially never desisted from exhorting the Christian Princes by Letters and Mes∣sengers, to open their eyes at last amidst such great dangers, for that they would seek a remedy in vain, when the Enemy was recruited. But whilst the good Man was thinking and talking of these things, James Picenninus revolted from the Venetians and march'd into the Territories of Siena with a numerous body of Horse and Foot, to demand of the Sieneses some thousands of pounds, which, he said they ow'd him upon his Father Nicolas's account, who had formerly fought under their Com∣mission. The Sieneses fearing the worst, sent to the Princes of Italy to as∣sist 'em, as they were bound by Contract; especially the Pope, who first advised 'em, not to give James one farthing and then sent his Forces against him and admonish'd the Princes of Italy to do the same, lest a flame should break out in Italy, which might be too fierce for them to quench. The Italians fearing the Pope's words would prove too true, sent speedy suc∣cours to the Sieneses: onely Alphonso favoured James and sent for him to his House, as being mindful of the Friendship he had formerly contract∣ed with Nicolas Picenninus his Father, nor would he assist the Sieneses as he ought to have done; nay he so far animated Count Petilian against them, that he seemed to be the chief cause of all the mischief. But when the Auxiliaries came in, not onely from Francis Sfortia, but the Venetians also, Picenninus was reduced to that pass in some few Bat∣tles, that if he were not routed, he was mightily weaken'd, especial∣ly at Orbitello; insomuch that he was fain to take shipping in Alphon∣so's Gallies, that were sent to him in his distress, and sail into his own Country without any success in that great Attempt. Thus by the as∣sistance of Calixtus and his Allies were the Sieneses freed from great danger; though they were still troubled with intestine and domestick as well as forein broils, by reason of some Citizens that contemn'd their present Liberty and follow'd Alphonso's Faction, by whom also 'tis

thought that great War was first raised. But the honest Citizens turn'd out, or kill'd the rest and do to this day retain that Liberty which they purchased at so dear a rate. Nor did they omit to punish the licentiousness of the Soldiers or those that fled from their Colours, as Gilbert Corrigia, whom they put to death, and gave his Men for a com∣mon prey to the rest. Sigismund Malatesta had like to have been serv'd in the same sauce, who at that time fought under them, for protract∣ing the War, and driving away their Cattel out of their grounds, as if he had been an Enemy. That year there happen'd such an Earthquake in the Kingdom of Naples upon the seventh of December, that many Churches and Houses fell down, to the great destruction of Man and Beast; especially at Naples, Capua, Cajetta, Aversa, and other Cities in old Campania, whose ruines I since have seen with great astonish∣ment, when I went thither to look after Antiquities. Then also did Alphonso often repeat his Vow which he had made against the Turks, and said he would shortly perform it; but he could never be brought to the Holy War for all that, so mightily was he taken with the de∣lights of Naples. But Calixtus, when he had setled the Affairs of Italy, created nine Cardinals, of whom two were his Nephews by two Sisters of his, to wit Roderick Borgia and John Miliano his Sisters Son. He also made Aeneas Bishop of Siena a Cardinal, and made use of him to procure the peace of Italy whilst the Sieneses were teazed with War. The Earl Tagliacocius being dead whom the Pope had made Governour of the City the year before, there rose a Controversie between Nea∣polio Ʋrsin and the Count Aversus, for that the later had possession of Monticello, not far from Tivoli, he pretending it belong'd to his Daugh∣ter-in-law who was the Count's Daughter; and Neapolio urg'd on the other side that it ought to be his, himself being reckon'd to be of the Ʋrsine Family. Whilst these two contended thus for their Patrimony and that with Arms too, the Roman people suffer'd very greatly. But when this Controversie also was over, and both sides commanded to lay down their Arms, Calixtus made his Nephew Bor∣gia not onely Governour of the City in the room of the Count deceas∣ed, but made him General of the Church-Forces, that he might keep the great Men of the City the better in order. Alphonso not long af∣ter dying without a lawful Heir, Calixtus had the courage to demand that Kingdom, and said it belong'd to the Sea Apostolick as an Escheat. Whereupon Armies were raised on both sides, and Ferdinand, Alphonso's Heir fear'd Calixtus's resolution: for he knew his nature, and the great∣ness of his Soul. But his death also put all things into confusion, and freed Ferdinand from great consternation of mind. Calixtus died in the third year, the third month, and sixteenth day of his Pontificate, and was buried in the Vatican on the left hand of St. Peter's, in the Round Church, dedicated to St. Marie del Febri, which was formerly repair∣ed by Nicolas. Borgia also, his Nephew died, not long after, at Civita Vechia, whither he had fled to save himself from the Ʋrsins whom he had disobliged by favouring the opposite Faction. But to give you a short Character of Calixtus; He was a very upright Man, and is to be commended for one thing above all; That when he was Bishop or Cardinal, he would never keep any Benefice in Commendam, but

said, he was content with one Wife, and that a Virgin, i.e. the Church of Valenza, as the Canon Law ordains. Besides, he was very chari∣table to poor Christians both in publick and private: and gave por∣tions to several poor Virgins when they married; kept indigent Noble∣men at his own charge: and when occasion was he was munificent to Princes, especially those that could assist the Church of Christ. He likewise sent Lewis of Bologna, of the Order of St. Francis, Ʋsun-Cas∣sanus Prince of Persia and Armenia, and to the King of the Tartars with many great Presents, to animate them against the Turk; and by his persuasion they did the Enemy great damage, and sent their Embassa∣dours, that were design'd to come to Calixtus, after he dy'd, to Pope Pius: which was an admirable Rarity to us, not onely upon account of the distant Countries from whence they came, but their habit which was unusual, and very strange to our eyes. They say that Ʋsun-Cas∣sanus after many Victories over the Enemy, wrote to the Pope, that he had conquer'd the Foe by the Pope's prayers, and that he would one day thank him for his kindness which was Divine rather than hu∣mane. That Alliance was begun by Calixtus, and is preserv'd to this day between all Christians and that Prince, who vexes the Turk with continual War. He laid out but little in building, because he dy'd too soon, and gather'd up all the Money that he could, to maintain that great and perillous War against the Turks. Onely he repair'd St. Prisca upon the Mount Aventine, as also the City Walls that were bro∣ken down almost to the ground. Yet some Hangings of Gold there are, which he bought. He was sparing in his Diet, very modest in his Discourse; and very accessible, as much as his Age would suffer him to be: for he was eighty years old, and yet as studious as ever. For he either read himself, or heard those that did, whenever his important Affairs would give him leave. He composed the Office for the Transfi∣guration of our Lord Jesus Christ, and order'd it to be said in the same manner, and with the same Indulgences for which Corpus Christi Day is so much valued. He receiv'd all Embassadours that came to him with great kindness, but would not yield to any of their Proposals or Demands, which were not consistent with Virtue and Justice. And that was the cause why he fell out and had a long quarrel with Alphon∣so, who sometimes would ask him to give Bishopricks to such as either upon the score of their Age, or ignorance in Books as well as Men, ought not to have them. When Calixtus dy'd he left 115000 l. be∣hind him, which he had heaped together to make warlike preparations against the Turk. As Calixtus was going to be buried, Dominick Cardinal of St. Crosses and chief Poenitentiary, died also (a Man of gravity and great Wisdom) and was buried in Minerva's Temple; to the grief of all good Men.

PIƲS II.

PIƲS the Second, before called Aeneas Picolhomineus, an Ita∣lian, of Siena, and born at Corsignano (whose Father's name was Sylvius and his Mother's Victoria) was chosen Pope by ge∣neral consent of the Cardinals, August 20. 1458. Formerly his Father and the rest of the Nobility being banish'd, or expelled the Republick of Siena by the Commonalty of that place, he went to Cor∣signano, the Seat of his Family, and there had a Child by his Wife. Which Child as soon as it was born the Father christen'd Aeneas Sylvius. Now his Mother, when she was big with Child, dreamed that she had brought forth a Boy with a Mitre on his head; as which she was affraid (as people are apt to think the worst of things) that her dream beto∣kened some dishonour to their Child and Family: nor could she be eas'd of her fear till she heard her Son was made Bishop of Trieste. And up∣on that news she was freed from all fear, and gave God thanks, that she saw her Son more happy than she expected. As soon as he was ca∣pable of learning any thing, he, having a good memory, and being very docile, went through his Grammar at Corsignano where he lived but poorly, being forced to undergo all the troubles of a rural employment. But when he was eighteen years of age he went to Siena, where, by the help of his Friends, he first learn'd the Poets and then the Orators, in which he was so skilful, that in a short time he put forth Poems in Latin and Italian, of which if the Subject was Love, it is to be ascri∣bed to his Youth. Thence he apply'd himself to the Civil Law, the study of which not long after he was forced to leave. For there arose a War between the Sieneses and the Florentines, which made him fear a Dearth; and seeing the Commonalty of Siena suspected the Nobility, he chose as it were a voluntary Exile, and follow'd that excellent per∣son, Dominick Capranicus, who then passed through Siena, in his way to the Council at Basil, to complain of the injury Eugenius had done him in denying him a Cardinals Hat, which Martin even in his absence had bestow'd upon him, for his Virtue and Integrity. In his Retinue he went, and after long tedious Journeys over the Alps (that reach to heaven almost, and are cover'd with Snow) he travailed over Ponte del Inferno, the Lake of Lucern, and through Switzerland, till he at last came to Basil. In which Assembly though he had much to do, being Domi∣nick's Secretary, yet he stole always some hours for his Book. After that, he was forced not without tears to leave Dominick, because he was extream poor, Eugenius denying him the Revenue of his Benefices and of his Paternal Estate too; he went to wait upon Bartholomew Bi∣shop of Novara, with whom he came to Florence, where Pope Eugenius at that time was. But he was forced to leave Bartholomew also, (he being accused by the Pope of high Treason) and betook himself to Ni∣colas, Cardinal of St. Crosses, and a very excellent and religious person in all Mens judgments; who going to Artois by order from Eugenius (where there was a Convention of all the French Princes) he made a

Peace between the Duke of Burgundy (an Ally of England) and the King of France. After that, Nicolas returning into Italy, made a Peace between the Venetians and Philip Duke of Millain to their great satisfaction; and Aeneas, who was not very acceptable to Eugenius, went to Basil, and was in great esteem among all Men. He was made a Secretary in that famous Council, and Abbreviatour of the Pope's Breves, as also a Duodecimvir, or one of the Twelve who in that great Assembly were as Censors. For no∣thing could be done relating to the publick, but what pass'd their graver approbation; and if any were admitted to the Council that were not fit, they were removed by their Order. There were in that Council four Sub Conventions or Committees, one debated concerning Faith, ano∣ther of Peace, a third of Reformation, and the other of promiscuous matters. Over each of these there was a several President plac'd every month: and Aeneas was often Chairman of the Committee for Faith of which he was a Member, and was also chosen twice one of the Collators, or disposers of Benefices. He made several Speeches in that Assembly, but one more remarkably elegant, to prove that Pavia was preferable to Avignion, Ʋdine or Florence for a place convenient to hold a Council in, by reason of its plenty, situation, magnificence of the Houses, good Air, and the liberality of Philip their Duke. When any thing was to be done by the several Nations together, he was the onely person chosen for Italy, to manage their business, he was a Man so courteous and in∣genuous. He went also on several Embassies from the Council; to Stras∣burgh, three times; to Trent, once; to Constance, twice; to Frankfort, once; and into Savoy twice. But when upon a long Debate the Council chose Felix Pope, and deposed Eugenius, and eight were chosen out of every Nation, to be managers of the Council Affairs, Aeneas, who was the Pope's Secretary refused to be one, though it was offer'd him. And afterward when he was sent Embassadour from Felix to Frederick the Emperour, he so far prevailed upon him by his ingenuity, that he made him a Poet Laureat, his Companion, and a Prothonotary, which, in Ger∣many, is a Secretary of State. Not long after he was made a Counsel∣lour of State, and shew'd such Learning and Authority, that he was rec∣kon'd the most ingenuous Man there by far, although he wanted not Rivals and Detractors. When Eugenius and the Emperour first treated about putting an end to the Schism, and Aeneas went to the Pope upon that account, he stay'd some time at Siena, where his Friends desired him not to go to Eugenius; for they feared the Pope would use him severely, because his Authority was often opposed (as people said) by Aeneas in Epistles and Orations at the Council of Basil. But he was resolute and trusting to his own innocence slighted the intreaties of his Relations and went to Rome; where in the first place he acquitted himself before Eugenius, in an elegant Oration, for submitting to their Opinion, who approv'd of the Council of Basil. And when he had so done, he began to treat with him about that which the Emperour sent him to nego∣tiate. Thereupon two Agents were sent from Eugenius into Germany, of whom one was Sarzanus and the other John Carvagialla, by whose good management, and Aeneas's industry together, the Neutrality (as I told you in the Life of Nicolas) was taken off. But that it might appear really to be so, and not in words onely, the Emperour sent Aeneas him∣self to Rome, to make a publick Declaration of Submission in all mat∣ters

to Eugenius, in the name of himself and all Germany. Eugenius dy∣ing about this time, Aeneas was President of the Conclave, till another Pope was chosen in the room of the deceased; there being no Orator in the City, more fit for so great an Employment. Nicolas being chosen Pope, he had leave to depart, and as he went into Germany, he (having been made Sub Deacon by Eugenius) was made Bishop of Trieste (that Bishop being just then dead) by the Pope and the Emperour, without his own knowledg. After which Philip Viconti dying without an Heir, the Emperour sent him Envoy to Millain: where he made an Oration con∣cerning the descent of the Inheritance of that City, and exhorting to Alle∣giance, which if they preserv'd inviolate, they might enjoy their liberty still. He was sent thither another time, when they were besieged by Francis Sfortia, and suffer'd great extremities in defence of their Liber∣ty; at which time he enter'd the City with great hazard alone; for his Collegues left him at Como, and durst not go on for fear. But he de∣parted thence without any success, and whilst the Emperour sent him to Alphonso King of Aragon, the Pope Nicolas, made him Bishop of Siena, the place of his Nativity. And when the Emperour and Alphonso had contracted an Alliance by Marriage he return'd into Germany, where he persuaded the Emperour to go as soon as possible into Italy and receive his Imperial Crown. Upon that advice Frederick went thither, but sent Aeneas before, to meet and complement his Wife Leonora, who was to come from Portugal into Tuscany. Who when he came to Siena, stay'd not long there, but he began to be suspected by the people, as if he de∣sign'd (because the Emperour was coming) to turn out the populace and make the Government an Aristocracy. Aeneas therefore, to free the people from that jealousie, went to Talamone, where he thought Leonora would arrive; and yet the people were not satisfied. For they banish'd the Nobility into the Country for a time; and a little while af∣ter (according to the mutable humour of the Mobile) gave 'em leave to come back again, when they understood the integrity of the Emperour and the modesty of Aeneas. Hence he went to Pisa, where he heard the Portugueses were landed, and brought the Infanta (who was commit∣ted to his sole care) to the Emperour, then at Siena. Then going to Rome he managed all things (whilst the Emperour was crown'd) both private and publick. Afterward the Emperour went to visit Alphonso, and left Ladislaus (a Princely Youth whom the Hungarians and Bohe∣mians had often endeavour'd to steal away from him) under the tutelage of Aeneas, who kept him very faithfully. When the Emperour came back to Rome, and had given the Pope thanks, he went for Ferrara, and having made Borsius d' Este Duke of Modena, he departed▪ And no sooner was he come into Germany, but he presently dispatch'd away Aeneas by the Pope's Order as Envoy extraordinary into Bohemia and all the Cities of Austria. For there was a Controversie between them and the Empe∣rour about King Ladislaus whom they would needs have him send into their Country. But the Dispute was ended, and a Peace made between 'em, so that Aeneas was not long after sent to the Assembly at Ratisbone: where he, in the name of the Emperour, and in the presence of Philip Duke of Burgundy, and Lewis of Bavaria, spoke of the Turks cruelty and calamities of Christendom with such vehemency and passion, that he forced sighs and tears from every one there; but especially he seem∣ed

so far to animate the Duke of Burgundy, that a War was decreed im∣mediately by general consent: though it was after laid aside through the ambition and folly of those, who thought too well of themselves. And now Aeneas was grown old, and tired with the tedious Journeys he had taken into forein parts; wherefore he resolv'd to return to Siena, his na∣tive Country: but the Emperour easily chang'd his mind, by telling him, that he yet design'd to make War upon the Turks. Thereupon he was sent to the Convention at Frankfort where all the German Princes were met together, and in a grave, long Oration persuaded them with many reasons to undertake that dangerous, but necessary War. And indeed he seemed to move 'em all exceedingly: though it is natural for those to cool soon whose affections are quickly heated. There was also a third Convention in Cittanova about the same thing, wherein Aeneas employ'd all his endeavours to bring about what he desired; exhorting every one of them both in publick and private to assist in that War, up∣on which the safety of all Europe, the Liberty of both Princes and people, and the honour of Christianity did depend. And just as he expected to do the business, there was news brought, that Pope Nicolas was dead; which put all things into a new Confusion. For the Convention broke up, and the Germans, desirous of Novelty, endeavour'd to persuade the Emperour no longer to obey the Pope unless he would grant them some certain Demands, for they said, the Germans were in a worse condition than either the French or Italians, whose Servants they might be termed (unless things were alter'd) especially to the Italians. And truly the Emperour had hearken'd to those Mutineers, if Aeneas, with his gravi∣ty, had not interposed, and told the Emperour, That though one Prince may possibly keep peace with another, yet there always is an immortal jealousie between Prince and People. So that, he thought it better for him to agree with the Pope, than give way to their desires, whose minds are led by Appetite and Fancy, not by Reason. The Emperour was persuaded: and slighting the peoples petition, sent Aeneas to Calix∣tus. He, when he came to Rome, and had given Frederick's Oath to the Pope, as the custom is, commended them both in an Oration, where∣of the greatest part inforced a War against the Turks; so mighty zealous he was for it. For he was a wise Man and foresaw what afterward came to pass; That the Barbarians would not be quiet when they had gotten all Greece; they were so puft up with their Victory. For that reason he apply'd himself to make peace in Italy (before he made War with the Turk) and so exhorted the Pope to do the same with all earnestness. At that time the Sieneses were hard put to it by Count Petilian and James Picenninus, who carry'd on that War more upon Alphonso's account than their own. Wherefore Aeneas, to make a final conclusion of it, went by command from the Pope and at the request of his Fellow-Citizens and Countrymen to Alphonso, at Naples, where almost all the Embassa∣dours of Italy were met to treat of Peace, but had done nothing in it to that time. But when Aeneas came, he said he would agree to a Peace then without any more ado, since that person was arrived, whom he loved above all mankind. Having obtein'd a Peace, and freed his Country from the Enemy he stay'd with Alphonso some months, because he loved his Conversation; and in that time took his opportunity to make an elegant and a large Discourse to him, by which he induced

him to engage by Sea against the Turk. And having so done he went for Rome, with a design to go into his own Country, but was stopp'd by the Pope, and not long after made a Cardinal. Now he was in such favour with Calixtus and bore such a sway, that he persuaded him to send Em∣bassadours to Siena, which was all in an uproar among themselves, to exhort the People to peace and unity. But whilst he was at the Bath at Viterbo upon account of his health, and had begun the History of Bohemia, Calixtus died, and then he return'd to Rome: where he was so much desired, that great part of the people ran out to meet him, and saluted him, prophetically, by the name of Pope. For indeed he was chosen Pope by universal consent not onely of the people but the Cardi∣nals: and having received the Papal Crown upon the fifth of September he went into St. Peter's Church in his pontifical Robes, where he gave thanks to Almighty God, and immediatly betook himself first to settle the Churches Patrimony, and then to endeavour the advantage of all Christen∣dom in general. For he ended the War in Ombria (which broke out be∣fore his Pontificate, under the command of that seditious Innovator James Picenninus) as soon as he was Pope, and took back Assisi and Nocera from the Enemy. He likewise made a Truce (which seemed a difficult thing to do) between Sigismund Malatesta, and King Ferdinand, that all might safely pass to Mantua, where he had order'd a general Council. And ha∣ving made the Prince of Columna Governour of the City in the room of Borgia, who was dead, and left Nicolas Cusa, Cardinal of St. Peter's in vinculis, his Legate at Rome, he departed the City in the midst of Win∣ter, and pass'd through those Cities which seemed more inclining to War than Peace, exhorting the People to unity and concord. In fine, they met at Mantua from all quarters, where there was a great number of Princes and Embassadours. For of all Europe there was no Nation, but sent either Princes, or Embassadours thither; and in that famous As∣sembly it was enacted by Pius, (who made an Oration himself) that a War should be proclaimed against the Turks, which they all agreed to. He proposed Methods for carrying it on, and shew'd the danger of Chri∣stendom: nor could they forbear to weep when they heard the calami∣ties laid open, to which poor Christians were exposed, who lay under the bondage of Barbarians. Beside he moved them to consider that the Turks having already possessed themselves of Greece and Schlavonia, would shortly get into the innermost parts of Europe. And indeed he omitted nothing that might excite their resolutions: for he was an excellent Ora∣tor, and seemed to draw his Arguments from new Topicks still, though he spake of the same thing, such an elegant and copious faculty he had. He confuted the complaints of the French and the calumnies of King Re∣natus (for his having confirm'd Ferdinand, Alphonso's Son, in the King∣dom of Naples) in three several Speeches. These things were transacted in the Council at Mantua, whilst almost all Europe employ'd their thoughts and Weapons in civil Discords, and neglected the forein War. The Germans arose partly against one another, and partly against the Hungarians: by whose assistance that great and necessary War might have been in a great measure managed and ended. England also was divided into two Factions: whereof the one would keep their old King, whilst the other strove to banish him and set up a new one. In like man∣ner did the Spaniards rise to help those of Barcellona, whom the King of A∣ragon,

assisted by the French, oppress'd. And lest any thing should be lacking to disturb the World, Italy, the chief of Europe, laid by all thoughts of forein War, and bent all its strength upon intestine quarrels. For at that time there was a War in Puglia, John Renatus's Son, endea∣vouring to drive Ferdinand out of his Kingdom, which occasion'd a double Faction through all the Province, whilst some favour'd Ferdinand, and others, Renatus. Pius therefore, to allay these heats, dismiss'd the Council at Mantua, and came back into Tuscany, where he easily regain'd Viterbo, which was in the possession of the adverse Party. Those of Anco∣na, who had harass'd one another miserably about their bounds and limits, he quieted partly by fear and partly by reason: as likewise the Ombri∣ans, who had embru'd their hands in each others blood upon the like account. He also setled the State of Siena, which had been engaged in great tumults for three years before; and restored several worthy Per∣sons, who had been banish'd thence, giving the Government of that Re∣publick (as formerly) to the Nobility. But he was very severe upon the Sabini for their falshood, in supplying a common Enemy with pro∣visions, and letting him pass through their Country. At Rome, he sup∣press'd the shameful Riots of Ruffian-like Men, and imprison'd Tiburtius Son to Angelus Massianus (who we told you, was put to death by Nicolas for a Conspiracy and hang'd up by the Capitol) and his Accomplices, who possessing themselves of the Church of St. Maria Rotunda, would sally from thence, as from a Castle, and commit outrages upon the Citizens. Furthermore, he exterminated some Tyrants who studied innovations, out of the Church Dominions: but never medled with any one, till he had first sent an Embassadour or Legate to 'em, to reduce 'em, if it were possible, by fair means. After that, he sent Frederick of Ʋrbino his Ge∣neral with Alexander Sfortia to Tagliacozzo to stop James Picennenus, who fought under Renatus, from going into Puglia to assist the French a∣gainst Ferdinand. And besides, he succour'd Ferdinand at Sarno, when he had like to have lost his Kingdom, for fear, the French, when they had once gotten that Kingdom, would make use of their Victory to sub∣vert the Liberty of Italy. He slighted the Threat and Promises of the French Embassadours that endeavour'd to bring him over from Ferdi∣nand to Renatus; and by his Censures as well as Arms he tamed the fury of Sigismund Malatesta who was a Feudatary of the Church, and yet contemning the League, which the Pope had made between him and Fer∣dinand, storm'd and took all the Castles, which he had given for caution, against Law and Reason; and having driven the Churches Legate as far as Nulasture, he made War upon the Anconeses. But his extravagance was corrected the year after at Sinigaglia, under the conduct of Frederick of Ʋrbino and Neapolio Ʋrsin, in a sharp engagement, wherein they retook Sinigaglia, the Town called Fortunae Fanum was taken by Nicolas of Pi∣stoia Cardinal Legate of St. Cecilys, and great part of Rimini taken from him, lest he should rebel any more. Ferdinand also had the same happy success not long after at Troja, a Town in Puglia, by which the Prince of Tarento and many others, who, being desirous of change, were on the French side, were so consternated, that they came all upon their knees to the King and begg'd pardon of him; but some few continued obstinate, whom the King afterward prosecuted so severely, that he either drove 'em out of the Kingdom, or brought 'em to know themselves. When

this was over, Pius, now freed from two great and troublesom Wars, renew'd the thoughts of his Expedition into Asia, which had been so long omitted from the time of the Mantuan Council through the ambi∣tion and avarice of the several Kings and Princes: and makes the King of Hungary, the Duke of Burgundy, and the Venetians his Confederates, because they seemed more inclined to it, than any body else. He like∣wise sent Nuncioes with Letters Apostolick to the several Nations of Christendom, to exhort the Princes and people to so great and necessary a War: Himself in the mean time went to Siena, with a design to go as soon as the Season permitted, to the Baths at Petriolana, that seemed best for his Distemper. And there he heard the Duke of Burgundy, who had vowed to come with a Navy well Man'd, had desisted from his resolu∣tion: as also, that many other Princes and people not onely Foreiners, but of Italy, led by ambition and envy, endeavour'd to frustrate that great Design, because they saw, that they were likely to have the richest spoils and rewards, that underwent the greatest brunt of that War. Thereupon (as it became a Pope to do) he try'd to persuade 'em by kind words at a distance: and soon after leaving the Bath he went to Rome, where he lay sick for some days of the Gout and a Fever, and therefore could not be at Ancona upon the seventh of June as he had pub∣lickly declared he would. But when his distemper was somewhat as∣swaged, he gave Audience to certain Embassadours that came from the King of France, and Duke of Burgundy to excuse their delay. And then calling all the Cardinals before him he appointed a day to hear the charge against the King of Bohemia, who was said to be heretically inclined: and when he had done, he was carried in a Litter through Sabina, Ombria, and the Marcha till he came to the City of Ancona. By the way be found great numbers of Men, that came out of Germany, Spain, and France, in∣tending for the War against the Turks: of whom he sent a great part, e∣specially of the Germans (having absolv'd 'em) back into their own Country, because he thought 'em unfit for the toil of War; and because they had not brought their pay along with 'em, as he had order'd in the Letters Apostolical. But in the mean time, whilst he waited at Ancona for the Navy that was a building in the several Ports of the Tyrrhene and Adriatick Seas, and also for the Duke of Venice his Ally, he was afflicted with a tedious Fever, and dy'd in the year 1464. upon the 13th of Au∣gust about three of the Clock in the Night, six years wanting six days af∣ter he was made Pope. He was a Man of such constancy and courage of mind, that in all his sickness, which was long and painful, he never omit∣ted any business that concern'd his understanding onely, whether it were to hear the causes of several Nations, to inhibit, to decree, to judg, to sign, to admonish, to chastise, or correct. And that day whereon he dy'd, about two hours before he expired, he call'd the Cardinals about him, and with a resolute Heart and a good audible Voice exhorted 'em to Unity in the choice of a new Pope: commending to their care (in a grave Speech) the honour of God, the dignity of the Church, the War which he had undertaken against the Turks, the salvation of his Soul, all his Family, and especially his Nephews, if they proved worthy of commendations. He desired all the Sacraments of his own accord, and shew'd great tokens of a true Christian. But besides that he dispu∣ed very acutely with Laurentius Roverella, Bishop of Ferrara, a learn∣ed

Divine, whether it were lawful for him to receive the Extreme Un∣ction again, having been anointed once before at Basil, when he was sick of the Plague. Nor could he be entreated by all his domestick Servants to forbear saying the Canonical Prayers, though he were in such an Agony. He repeated the Athanasian Creed with great strength and Emphasis; and when he had done, he said, it was most true, and most holy. He was not affraid to die, nor did he shew any sign of trouble or inconstancy to his last breath. But indeed he may be said rather to have been kill'd than to have died, he was so tortur'd with tedious Diseases. He commanded his Friends to carry his Body to Rome: where those that embalm'd him affirmed that his heart was very sound and vivid. His funeral pomp from Ancona to Rome was made up of his Family, who were all in mourning and in tears. And when that was over, he was buried in St. Peter's at the Altar of St. Andrew, in a Tomb, which was built at the charge of Francis, Cardinal of Siena, with this Epitaph, Pius II. Pont. Max. natione Tuscus, patriâ Senensis, gente Pocolhominea. He enjoy'd the Sea onely six years: But though his Pontificate were short, yet it was full of great Actions. He held a Council at Mantua to maintain the Faith; resisted all the opposers of the Church of Rome both within and without Italy; he canonized Catha∣rine of Siena, and abrogated the French Pragmatic Sanction. He restored Ferdinand of Aragon to the Kingdom of Naples; encreased the Churches Patrimony, and made the first Allum Mines at Tolfa; He was an Ad∣mirer of Justice and Religion, and an excellent Orator: But he died at Ancona as he was going to the War against the Turks, where he had his Navy ready, and the Duke and Senate of Venice for his fellow Sol∣diers in Christ. He was brought thence into the City by order of the Cardinals, and buried in the place where he commanded St. Andrew the Apostle's head (which was brought hither to him from Morea) to be laid. He lived fifty eight years, nine months and twenty seven days; and when he dy'd, left the College of Cardinals forty five thousand pound gather'd out of the Church Revenues, to maintain the War against the Turks. But the Cardinals committed all this Money and the Galleys, that were then in the Port of Ancona, to Christopher Maurus Duke of Venice, who arrived there two days before Pius died, upon condition, that he should use the Ships according to their directions, and should send the Money to Matthias King of Hungary, who was continually at War with the Turk. Thus died Pius, who was a personage of such true courage and singular prudence; as he seemed to be born not to ease or pleasure but to manage the most important Affairs. He always endea∣vour'd to augment the Majesty and grandieur of the Pontifical Chair; nor did he ever leave chastizing of Kings, Dukes, States, Usurpers, that wronged either himself or any other Church-Man, till he made 'em ac∣knowledg their Errour. And therefore he was an Enemy to Lewis King of France, because he endeavour'd to diminish the Liberties of the Church, and extorted from him the Pragmatic Sanction which was most pernicious to the Sea of Rome. He threaten'd Borsius Duke of Modena, who being a Feudatary of the Church of Rome, yet favour'd Sigismund Malatesta and the French, who were no Friends to the Church. But he censur'd Sigis∣mund Duke of Austria most grievously, for taking Nicolas Cusanus, Car∣dinal of St. Peter ad vincula, and keeping him some days in Prison. He

deprived Dieterus Isimbergensis Bishop of Mayence, who hated the Church of Rome, and put another in his place: and so likewise he displaced the Arch-Bishop of Benevento, who was upon new projects, and endeavour'd to betray Benevento to the French. He likewise deprived Francis Copi∣nus, who in his Embassady to England, assumed more Power, than the Sea Apostolick had given him (to the destruction of many Men) him he deprived of his Bishoprick of Teramo. He also made Terracino, Be∣nevento, Sora, Arpino and a great part of Campagnia subject to the Church. He never granted any thing to any King, Duke, or State for fear or co∣vetousness; and would reprove Men severely, that ask'd what he could not grant without detriment to the Church and dishonour to himself; and strook such terrour into some Lords of Italy especially, that they continued very true to their Faith and Allegiance. But as he always plagued his publick Enemies, so likewise he Cherish'd his Friends as much. He dearly loved Frederick the Emperour, Matthias King of Hungary, Ferdinand Son to Alphonso, Philip of Burgundy, Francis Sfor∣tia, and Lewis Gonzaga. He added twelve Cardinals to the former num∣ber, the Cardinal of Rieti, Spoleto, Trani, Alexander Saxoferratensis, Bartholomew Roverella, James of Lucca, Francis Son to his Sister Lao∣damia, Francis Gonzaga Son to the Marquess Lewis, all Italians. But then there were others from beyond the Alps; as, Salseburgensis, Lewis Libretus of Artois, and Vergelensis. Moreover, he so ordered his me∣thod of living, that he could never be accused of idleness or sloth. He rose as soon as 'twas day for his health sake, and, having said his Prayers very devoutly, went about his worldly affairs. When he had done his mornings work, and walk'd about the Gardens for his recreation, he went to Dinner; in which he used an indifferent sort of Diet; not curious and dainty. For he seldom bid 'em get him this or that particular Dish, but whatever they set before him, he ate of. He was very abstemious, and when he did drink Wine, it was always diluted with Water, and pleasant rather than rough upon the Palate. After Meals he either dis∣coursed or disputed half an hour with his Chaplains, and then going into his Bed-Chamber he took a nap, after which he went to Prayers again, and then wrote or read, as long as his business would permit. The same also he did after Supper; for he both read and dictated till midnight as he lay in his Bed, nor did he sleep above five or six hours. He was a short Man, gray-hair'd before his time, and had a wrinkled Face before he was old. In his aspect he bore severity tempered with good-nature; and in his garb was neither finical, nor negligent, but so contrived it, as to be consistent with the pains which he usually took. He could patiently endure both hunger and thirst, because he was natu∣rally very strong; and yet his long journeys, frequent labour, and Watchings had impair'd him. His usual Diseases were the Cough, the Stone, and Gout, wherewith he was often so tormented, that no body could say he was alive but by his Voice. And even in his sickness he was very accessible, but sparing of Words; and unwilling to deny any Man's Petition. He laid out all the Money he got together; and did neither love Gold nor contemn it: but would never be by, whilst it was told out, or laid up. He seemed not to cherish the Wits of his Age, be∣cause three grievous Wars which he had undertook had so continually exhausted the Pontifical Treasury that he was oftentimes much in Debt:

and yet he preferred many learned Men to places both in the Court, and Church. He would willingly hear an Oration, or a Poem, and always submitted his own Writings to the judgment of the Learned. He hated Lyars and Sycophants, was soon angry and soon pleased a∣gain. He pardon'd those that reviled, or scoff'd at him, unless they injur'd the Sea Apostolick; the Dignity whereof he always had such a respect for, as upon that account often to fall out with great Kings and Princes. He was very kind to his Houshold Servants; for those that he sound in an errour, through folly or ignorance, he admonish'd like a Father. He never reproved any one for speaking or thinking ill of him; because in a free City he desired every body should utter their minds. And when one told him, that he had an ill Report, he re∣ply'd; go into the Campo di fiore, and you'l hear a great many talk against me. If at any time he had a mind to change the Air of Rome for a better, he went, especially in the Summer, to Tivoli, or his own Country, Siena. But he was mightily pleased with the retirement of an Abby in Siena, which is very delightful, and cool too by reason of its situation and the shady Groves that are about it. He frequented the Baths at Macerata and Petriolana for his healths sake. He used thin Cloths, and his Expences in Silver look'd more frugal than Princelike. For his whole delight (when he had leisure) was in writing and read∣ing: because he valu'd good Books more than precious Stones; for in them he said there was great plenty of Gems. He so far contemn'd a splendid Table, that he went oftentimes to Fountains, Groves, and Country recesses for his own humour, where he entertain'd himself not like a Pope, but an honest humble Rustick. Nor were there wanting some who found fault with this his frequent change of places, especi∣ally his Courtiers; because no Pope had ever done so before him, unless in time of War, or of a Plague. But he always slighted their Cavils, and said, that for all his pleasure he never omitted any thing that be∣fitted the dignity of a Pope or tended to the good of the Court. In all places he Sealed, heard Causes, Censur'd, Answer'd, Asserted and Con∣futed; to give full satisfaction to all sorts of Men. He could not eat willingly alone, and therefore invited either the Cardinal of Spoleto, of Trani, or of Pavia commonly to Dine or Sup with him. At Supper he used to discourse of Learning, and rubb'd up his old Notions of the Ancients; shewing how commendable each of 'em was in this or that par∣ticular. He frequently exhorted his Relations to Virtue, and deterr'd 'em from Vice, by recounting the good or ill actions of others. Augu∣stine Patritio was his chief Reader, and Amaniensis. He was also some∣times pleased to hear Wit, especially when he had nothing to do: and therefore he had one Grecus, a Florentine, who would mimick and ridi∣cule any ones behaviour, garb, or way of speech with great diversion to the Audience. He was an honest, upright, plain Man, without fal∣lacy, or guile. And so zealous a Christian he was, that there appear'd no colour of Hypocrisie in him. He frequently confess'd, and receiv'd the Communion; and at divine Service either performed the Priestly Office himself, or assisted at the Ceremonies. He always contemn'd Dreams, Portents, Prodigies, Lightning, and the like. There was no sign in him of fear or inconstancy: but he seemed as little elevated at his good, as dejected at his ill Fortune. He often reproved his Friends,

for Cowards, and sneaking Fellows, that they should be affraid of tel∣ling him what mischances they had (as it sometimes happens) in the War: because, he said, those things might have been remedied, if he had known of 'em in time. He never forsook his Allies, either upon account of Charges, or fear of his Enemies. He went to War with an ill will, but fought for the Church and Religion when he was forced to't. He was mightily pleased with Building: and at his charge were the Steps in the Vatican Church repaired; the Portico of it made glori∣ous and strong: And he had a design to carry away the rubbish from before the Church-door, and pave the Piazza. He was about to make a Portico, from whence the Pope might bless the People. He built a Castle at Tivoli before people thought he had begun it: and at Siena he built his Countrymen a Portico of square stone very high and very fine. As likewise he made Corsiniano (which he called Pienza, from his own name, Pius) a City: and built there a noble Church with a Cupalo, to∣gether with a fine House. He erected also a Tomb for his Father and Mother at Siena in St. Francis's Church, with this Distich for an Epitaph.

Sylvius hic jaceo, conjux Victoria mecum est, Filius hoc clausit marmore Papa Pius.

He had four Nephews by his Sister; of which the two youngest through his Authority, and the respect that was shewn him, were made Knights by the King of Spain. The eldest, who had married King Ferdinand's Daughter, was made Duke of Malphi; and the second, whom Pius (as I told you before) had made a Cardinal, lives yet in such repute of in∣tegrity and Vertue, that there is nothing wanting in him that is requi∣red in an excellent Person: being adorn'd with Wit, Manners, Policy, Religion, Modesty and Gravity. But to return to Pius; who never omitted his Studies though he were advanced to such an eminent Station. When he was a Youth indeed and not yet initiated into Divinity, he set out Poems, that were rather light, and jocular, than serious and grave: and yet sometimes even in them he was elevated, nor did he want satyrical sharpness amidst his merry Conceits. There are Epigrams of his extant, that are full of Wit, and he is said to have written about three thousand Verses, which were lost most part of 'em at Basil. The remainder of his life he wrote in Prose onely, his grand Affairs rather inclining him to it; but he also loved a mixt Stile, more fit for Philoso∣phy. He set forth several Books of Dialogues about the Power of the Council at Basil, about the Rise of Nile, of Hunting, of Destiny, of God's Prescience, and of the Heresie in Bohemia. He left an imperfect Dialogue which he began against the Turks in defence of Christianity. He digested his Epistles into their several occasions and seasons when they were written: and those that he wrote when he was a Layman, a Clergy, a Bishop, or Pope he put into distinct Tomes: Wherein he excites Kings, Princes, and others to engage in the War for Religion. There is an Epistle of his extant which he wrote to the Turk, to per∣suade him from Mahometanism to the Christian Faith. He also wrote a Book about the Life of Courtiers; as likewise a Grammar for Ladislaus the young King of Hungary. He farthermore composed thirty two O∣rations, exhorting Kings, Princes, and Commonwealths to Peace, and in

defence of Religion, to promote the quiet and Concord of the whole World. He perfected the History of Bohemia, but left that of Austria imperfect. And though he was upon a History of all the remarkable Actions in his Time, yet he was never able, for his business, to finish it. He wrote twelve Books and began the thirteenth of things done by himself. His Stile was soft and easie, in which he made several excellent, and pertinent Sermons. For he could readily move the Affections with handsom and graceful Expressions. He very aptly describes situations of Places and Rivers, assuming various ways of Eloquence, as the occasion required. He was well acquainted with Antiquity; nor could any Town be mention'd, but he could tell its rise and situation: besides that he would give an account in what Age famous Men flourish'd. He would sometimes take notice of Mimicks for his pleasure: and left many Say∣ings behind him, of which I thought fit to add some to this account of his Life: to wit; That the Divine Nature was better understood by Be∣lieving than by Disputing. That all Sects though confirm'd by humane Authority yet wanted Reason. That the Christian ought to be receiv'd upon its own credit, though it had never been back'd with Miracles. That there were three Persons in the Godhead, not proved to be so by Reason, but by considering who said so. That those Men who pretend∣ed to measure the Heavens and the Earth were rather bold than certain what they did was right. That to find out the motion of the Stars had more pleasure in it, than pro••it. That God's Friends enjoy'd both this Life and that to come. That without Vertue there was no true Joy. That as a covetous Man is never satisfied with Money, so a Learn∣ed Man should not be with Knowledg; But that he who knew never so much, might yet find somewhat to be studied. That common Men should value Learning as Silver, Noblemen, as Gold, and Princes as Jewels. That good Physitians did not seek the Money but the health of the party diseas'd. That a florid Speech did not move wise Men but Fools. That those Laws are Sacred which restrain Licentiousness. That the Laws had Power over the Commonalty, but were feeble to the greater sort. That great Controversies were decided by the Sword and not by the Laws. A Citizen should look upon his Family as subject to the City, the City to his Country, his Country to the World, and the World to God. That the chief place with Kings was slippery. That as all Rivers run into the Sea, so do all Vices into Courts. That Flat∣terers draw Kings whether they please. That Kings hearken to none more easily than to Sycophants. That the tongue of a Flatterer was a King's greatest Plague. That a King, who would trust no body was good for nothing, and he that believed every body was no better. That it is necessary he that governs many should himself be rul'd by many. That he deserv'd not the name of a King who measur'd the Publick by his private abvantage. That he who neglected holy Duties did not de∣serve the Church Revenue, nor a King his Taxes, that did not constant Justice. He said those that went to Law were the Birds, the Court, the Field, the Judg, the Net, and the Lawyers, the Fowlers. That Men ought to be presented to Dignities and not Dignities to the Men. That some Men had Offices and did not deserve 'em, whilst others deserv'd 'em and had 'em not. That the burthen of a Pope was heavy, but he was happy who bore it stoutly. That an illiterate Bishop was like an

Ass. That ill Physicians kill'd the body, and ignorant Priests the Soul. That a wandring Monk was the Devil's Bondslave. That Virtue had enriched the Clergy, but Vice made 'em poor. That there was great reason for the prohibiting of Priests to marry, but greater for allowing it again. That no Treasure was preferrable to a faithful Friend. That Life was like a Friend and Envy like Death. That he cherishes an Ene∣my who pardons his Son too often. That a covetous Man never pleases any body but by his Death. That Mens faults are conceal'd by Libera∣lity, and discover'd by Avarice. That it was a slavish Vice to tell Lyes. That the Use of Wine had augmented the Cares and the Distempers of mankind. That a Man ought to take as much Wine as would raise and not overwhelm his Soul. That Lust did fully and stain every age of Man, but quite extinguish old Age. That Gold it self, and Jewels could not purchase Content. That it was pleasant to the good, but terrible to the bad, to die. That a noble Death was to be preferr'd before a dishonourable Life in the Opinion of all Philosophers.

And this is all or most that can be written of Pius: except I add, that he canonized St. Catharine of Siena; and laid up St. Andrew's head, that was sent from Morea to Rome▪ in St. Peter's Church with great Veneration, and Processions perform'd by the Clergy and People, in a Chappel built on purpose: after he had clear'd the Church in that place especially, and removed the Sepulchres of some Popes and Cardinals, that took up too much room.

PAƲL II.

PAƲL the Second, formerly called Peter Barbo, a Vene∣tian, (whose Father's Name was Nicolas and his Mothers Polyxena) Cardinal Priest of St. Marks, was made Pope August 30. 1664. being Pope Eugenius's Nephew by his Sister, he was just going as a Merchant to Sea (an Em∣ployment not ungentile among the Venetians, and not disapproved of by Solon) and having carry'd his Scritore, and other Implements on Board, he heard that his Uncle Gabriel Condelmerius was chosen Pope. Whereupon he stay'd ashore, and at the request of his Friends and his elder Brother Paul Barbo, apply'd himself to his Book though he was pretty well in years, under the Discipline and tutelage of James Ricio∣nius, who used to commend his Diligence. He had also other Masters, but made no great proficency, considering his Age; however he preferr'd 'em all when he came to be Pope (excepting only Ricion) to shew that it was none of their faults he was not made a Scholar. But Paul Barbo who was a stout and a wise Man, and knew his Brother's nature inclined him ra∣ther to ease than business, intreated Eugenius (whom he went to visit at Florence) to send for Peter, and give him some Ecclesiastical preferment. He did so, and Peter was made first Arch-Deacon of Bologna, with which not long after he held the Bishoprick of Cervia in Commendam, and was made a Protonotary; one of that Rank who receive the greatest Fees. In this condition he lived for some years, till at last he was made a Car∣dinal

at the same time with Alouisius, a Physician of Padua, whom they afterward call'd Patriarch and Chamberlain: which was done at the re∣quest of some Friends of Eugenius's, who desired to have a Man that might thwart Alouisius upon occasion. And indeed it happened after∣ward that they grew such Enemies as never were known, by the insinua∣tions of others especially whose interest it was to foment the Quarrel. For Peter was vexed that he should be inferiour to any Man about Eu∣genius, since he was his Nephew, and of a Patrician Family in Venice. Upon this account he fell out most grievously with Francis Condelmerius the Vice-Chancellour, who was Eugenius's Cousin-german: and when he died, he turn'd all his fury upon the Patriarch, though they two had been often seemingly reconcil'd by the intercession of Friends. Hereupon they were such Enemies to one another in several Popes Reigns, that they did not spare each others either Estate, or honour: but mutually re∣viled each other in words, which I will not relate, lest I should seem to believe 'em. But when Eugenius was dead and Nicolas the Fifth in his place, he prevailed so far upon him by his kindness and flattery, that he not onely got the uppermost place of all his Nation in Nicolas's Court, but by assistance of Nicolas's Brother, did so animate him against Alouisius, that he retrenched the Chamberlain's Office. For Peter Barbo was naturally fair spoken, and could feign good nature, when occasion serv'd. But he was sometimes so mean spirited, that when he could not obtain what he aimed at by praying, intreating, and requesting, he would joyn tears to his Petitions to make them the sooner believed. And therefore Pope Pius used sometimes to call him the godly Mary, by way of joke. He also used this wheedle with Calistus, and persuaded him to send Alouisius with certain Gallies against the Turk; shewing him by Ar∣gument that such a Person was fittest for such an Expedition, because he had not onely been a Commander formerly, but had stoutly defended the Church-patrimony against all its Enemies. Peter being at last deli∣ver'd from that eye-sore, made Calistus always so far of his Opinion, that he used no bodies advice more than his, as long as he lived. So that he easily obtain'd of the Pope whatever he ask'd either for himself or his Friends. For he was ready to do friendships and kindnesses for any Man whom he undertook to protect or assist not onely before the great Men in general, but with the Pope also. Yea such was his humanity, that he would visit his Domesticks that were sick (if they were Men of any account) and apply Remedies to 'em. For he had always at home Medicaments brought from Venice, with Oil, Treacle, or other things fit for Medicines; and some of these he often sent to the sick. He took care that the Wills of sick People should be intrusted with himself rather than any body, to dispose of as he thought fit; for if any thing in them concern'd him, he presently sold part of the goods by Auction, and turn'd it into Mony for his own use. He was pleased with the Conver∣sation of some particular Romans, whom he often invited to Dine with him, for his diversion: and was often very well pleased at the Wit, Mi∣mickry, Gibes, Taunts and civil Affronts that came from Priabisius and Francis Malacaro. By this means he engaged the respect of the Citizens of Rome and even the Courtiers also. But that he might not seem powerful at home onely, he endeavoured to make an Interest abroad too. For he went into Campagna di Roma to appease certain People that

were at variance about their Confines: and whilst he endeavour'd to reconcile the Count d' Aversa to Neapolio Ʋrsin, he had like to have been taken and put into Prison for words which the Count resented very highly. Wherefore he went away without his Errand, and from that time always shew'd himself Aversa's Enemy. After that Calixtus died, into whose room Pius succeeded, when he, endeavouring to change his Bishoprick of Vincenza for that of Padua, by troublesom importunities, and requests, so far provoked Pope Pius and the Venetians, that they turned out his Brother Paul from being a Senator, and interdicted him from enjoying any Church Benefice, if he would not alter his mind. At which the Man was so angry that he waited onely for a time to re∣venge himself, and was very invective in the mean while against those, that obstructed his Design, But when Pius was dead and he put in his place, he no sooner came to the honour but immediately he turned our all the Clerks of the Breves, which Pius had put in, pretending they were either useless or unlearn'd: whether he had so promised, or that he hated Pius's Acts and Decrees, no body can tell. For he strip'd them of their goods and preferments without hearing what they could say for themselves, whom he ought to have invited from all parts of the World with Encouragements and Rewards; that College being then full of good and learned Men. For there were Men very skilful in the Laws both Divine and Humane: as likewise Poets and Orators, who were as great Ornaments to the Court, as that was honour to them; yet Paul turn'd 'em all out, though it had been order'd by Letters Apostolick and the Judges of the Pontifical Treasury, that no Man who bought his place honestly should be put out of it. And yet those that were concern'd did what they could to change his mind: and among the rest I entreated him, that it might be referr'd to the publick Judges, whom they call Auditors of the Rota. At which he look'd upon me with a stern aspect, and told me,

Do you (said he) refer me to Judges, as if you were igno∣rant, that all the Laws were laid up in my Breast? I am resolv'd (said he); let 'em all be gone whither they will I value 'em not; I am Pope, and I may do as I please, either in rescinding or approving the acts of others.

When we heard this severe Sentence, we travel'd about and strove to rowl an unmovable stone, attending Persons of the Court Day and Night, and vainly beseeching every mean Servant to procure us admission to the Pope. For we were rejected with reproachful Lan∣guage, as if we had been excommunicated persons, or Pagans. But not∣withstanding we attended twenty Nights together; because he did no∣thing in a manner, but what he did by Night. At last I was so concern'd for the disgrace which he put upon us, that (seeing I and my Associates could not come to speak with him) I was resolv'd to send him a Letter, which I wrote to this purpose:

If you had power to strip us of all we had just and lawful right to, then it ought to be in our power to com∣plain of the injury and disgrace that you have done us. And therefore seeing we are rejected by you with so much ignominy, we will appeal to all the Kings and Princes far and near, and desire 'em to convene a Council, where you may be forced to shew thy reason, why thou rob∣best us of our Livelihoods:

When he had read the Letter, he sent for Platina, as a Traytor; put him into Prison and fetter'd him; and then sent Theodore, Bishop of Treviso, to examine him. He soon con∣cluded

me guilty, for dispersing Libels against Paul, and mentioning a Council. The first Objection I thus refuted; to wit,

That those were called Libels, in which the Name of the Writer was conceal'd; but my name was at the bottom of the Letter, and therefore it was no Libel. And as to my making mention of a Council; That I did not think so great a fault, seeing the fundamentals of true Faith were esta∣blished by the holy Fathers in Synods, which had been sown by our Saviour and his Disciples, to the end, that all both great and small might live peaceably together and have right done them. And that by the Laws of Rome, not onely private but publick persons were to give an account of their lives and how they discharged their Trusts.

But when I could do no good this way, I was forced to be content and lie in massie Chains in the middle of Winter without any fire, and in an high Tower, which was exposed to all the Winds that blew for four months together. At last Paul was tired with the importunity of Francis Gonzaga Cardinal of Mantua, and freed me from the noisom Pri∣son, though I could hardly stand upon my Legs; and withal he bids me not stir from the City: For (says he) if you go into India, Paul will fetch you back. I obey'd his Commands; and stayed three years in the City, hoping to find some remedy for my misfortunes. But Paul, when he was Crown'd, according to custom, remembring that the Ca∣nons Regular were formerly turn'd out of St. Giovanni Laterano by Ca∣lixtus, though Eugenius had placed 'em there; he recall'd 'em, to per∣form Divine Service apart from the Canons Secular. And because he had a mind to extirpate the name of Seculars from that place, if any one of 'em died, he put no body into his place; or if any Benefice were vacant, he made them renounce their Canonships and so translated 'em to other Churches, till at length the profits of that Church being reduced into one body might satisfie the Canons Regular without any charge to him, he being before forc'd to keep 'em, they were so poor. But by this means Paul did much estrange the Citizens minds and af∣fections from him: because (as they said) he gave those Revenues which their Forefathers had setled (instead of Citizens) to foreiners. Nor was Paul content to do so, but he spoke to some Canons by them∣selves, and threaten'd 'em till they quitted their Canonries. Some in∣deed contemn'd his Menaces and expected an opportunity of vindica∣ting their Liberty, which happen'd not till he was dead. It was now reported that the Turks had taken most part of Epirus and were coming into Sclavonia, he therefore sent Nuncio's immediately to all Kings and Princes, to advise 'em, to compose their civil Discords and make War a∣gainst the Turk the common Enemy; but there was nothing done in it, because they were up to the ears in blood one among another: the Ger∣mans in one part and the English in an other, some of whom desired a new King, others would retain their old one. And then the Spanish and French Princes, fear'd their King's Power, who attempted to bring them to a total subjection. But more than this, the King of Bohemia's Apo∣stacy vexed Paul very much, in that he withdrew himself from the Church of Christ by little and little; and therefore he design'd to send the King of Hungary with an Army against him, if the War which he had under∣taken against the Turks, would give him leisure; and that he could com∣pose the difference between the King and the Emperour. For when

Ladislaus King of Hungary and his Nephew was dead, without issue, the Emperour himself pretended a right to that Kingdom, which Matthias Son to the Vaivod was in possession of. Thereupon Paul thought it best to defer that matter till another time, and apply'd himself to make up some breaches between certain Citizens of Rome. For there was a quar∣rel between James Son to John Alberinus, and Felix Nephew to Anthony Capharellus: and therefore he sent for the two old Gentlemen, the Fa∣ther and Uncle of 'em, and caused 'em to put in Sureties, that they would be friends, though they stood out a good while. But James Son to Alberinus, who could not endure that any Affront should be put up∣on his Father, attempted soon after to murther Anthony Capharellus, and gave him several such grievous wounds that he left him for dead. At which Paul was very angry, that Alberinus's Son had broken his Fa∣ther's Oath, and therefore he demolish'd their Houses, confiscated all their goods and banished them from the City, but he afterward recal∣led 'em and took 'em into favour, restoring all their goods; and made Peace between the parties after they had been both sometime in Prison. In the year 1465. Alouisius Patavinus the Pope's Chamberlain dy'd. He was Cardinal-Priest of St. Laurence, a very rich Man and prudent in the management of business, but not so wise towards his later end: in that he left most of his Estate to his two Brothers who were call'd Sca∣rampi. Men that were good Gentlemen, but yet not worthy of such a vast fortune as he had got out of the Church Revenues (I know what People thought) whereupon Paul, who had given him free leave to make a Will and bequeath it to whom he pleased, seized upon the E∣state, took the Scarampi who had fled and kept 'em (though in no scan∣dalous place) till he had those things brought him which were carried away to Florence; which done, he freed the Scarampi, to whom he gave a good share, and was more liberal to the other Legatees than the Testa∣tor himself had been. And thus Alouisius's Estate, which he got with great industry and preserv'd with greater, (as if in the strength of so much Wealth he could have lived Mathusalem's Age) was seized and distributed by one with whom he had had so many quarrels, ill words and Animosities, and before whom he would have chosen the Turk for his Executor. Nor was Divine Providence thus satisfied, but was pleased that his body also which was already buried should be made a prey; for the Grave was open'd in the Night-time by those to whom he had given the Revenues of St. Laurence in Damaso, and he stript of a Ring and all his Cloths. But indeed Paul, when he knew of it, was very angry at them. About that time Frederick a fine Youth, Son to Ferdinand, who passing to Millain, to fetch Francis Sforza's Daughter, his Brother's Wife, to Naples, arrived at Rome, where he was met by the Nobility and Rhoderick the Vicechancelour, and kindly entertain'd by the Pope him∣self, who presented him with a Rose, which the Popes use to give to some Christian Prince every year. Ferdinand now minding to punish those of his own Kingdom, who had revolted from him when he was engaged with the French, sent some Forces to set upon the Duke of Sora; but the Pope was desirous to divert that War, and therefore sent the Arch-Bishop of Millain thither with all speed, to pray him, that he would send those Men to him (as he was obliged by his Tenure to do) because he had a Design to destroy and take off the Count Aversa's Sons that

had denied Obedience to the Church. For about that time the Count Aversa died, when Paul was made Pope; and his body was brought to Rome, where it was buried in St. Maries the Great. The King, who was Deiphobus's bitter Enemy, as having been attempted by him with Plots, Poison and open force in the late War, gave Order to the Captains of his Army, cited to go where the Pope bad them, upon the first Sum∣mons. He had Deiphobus and Francis to him before and given 'em charge to clear the Road of Thieves, (who used to rob Travellers at the very Gates of Rome, as it were) and that they should restore Capra∣rola (a Town so called) to the Son of Securanza, the greatest part of whose Estate they had possest themselves of: they not onely refused to do either, but threaten'd him, and brag'd that they were Count Aver∣sa's Sons, nor would they spare any one that gave 'em a provocation. Paul therefore having privately prepared all things that were necessary for a War, with assistance of the King's Forces, he surprised and subdued 'em within fourteen days after he attaqued 'em, reducing nine Castles under the jurisdiction of the Church: of which some were so well forti∣fied both by Art and Nature, that they seemed impregnable. Deiphobus fearing lest if he were taken he should be sent to the King, made his escape. But Francis his Brother and his Son were taken and kept five years in Castel St. Angelo, till upon the Creation of Sixtus, they were freed. And hence afterward arose great enmity between the Pope and the King; when Ferdinand demanded that Paul would remit the Tri∣bute which he was to pay the Church, as a reward for his great merits: and would retrench or take off part of it for the future, seeing his Uncle enjoy'd the Kingdom of Sicily, though he paid Tribute for that and Naples too: and told him, That he ought to consider his Deserts and what might happen; for that he had always some Batalions in Arms, not more upon his own than upon the Pope's account as he found in the late War against the Aversans. Paul on the other hand recounted the Churches merits toward Ferdinand; and so they spun out the De∣bate a long time by these kind of wranglings, each of 'em seeking an opportunity to recover their Right. In the mean time the King was very cautious how he caused any new Commotions, because he fear'd James Picenninus's Power, who had Sulmona in Abruzzo, and some other Towns in his possession: whom afterward his Father-in-law Francis Sfor∣tia sent to the King, who gave him his word that he should come and go in safety when he pleased. But all things did not go according to James's expectation: for he was taken at Naples by Ferdinand, as so was his Son, and there thrown into Prison, and not long after put to Death; though there was a false report given out, that he fell down in the Prison and broke his Leg, as he was inconsiderately staring through the Window to see the King's Galleys that came from Ischia, with Victory over the French. There were who thought him still alive: which I can never be∣lieve, because there was no Man in all Italy more fit (if you look upon him as a Soldier) to subvert the Government of King Ferdinand. The Duke of Millain's Daughter, when she heard of it, tarry'd by the way at Siena, as she was going to her Husband at Naples, to persuade the World, that her Father was not any way concern'd with Ferdinand in contriving the Death of Picenninus. But what People thought of it, we very well know. There were likewise some, that said, the Pope knew

of it before hand, because at that time the Arch-Bishop of Millain went often from the Pope to the King, and from the King back again: and be∣cause Paul said, when he heard of his Imprisonment, that the Judg of Appeals was taken off. But that of Virgil is too true,

Nescia mens hominum fati, sortisque futurae. Little do Men their future Fortune know.

For Paul could not have made use of any one to fit to curb Ferdinand as James Picenninus was, if he had been alive, when their Debate arose a∣bout the Tribute, for which a War was like to have been proclaimed. For when he had kept his Daughter-in-laws, and his Son's Wedding, and that thereby and by the death of James his Kingdom was setled, Ferdi∣nand was instant with the Pope, that he would retrench the Tribute, and give him back certain Towns which belong'd to the Kingdom but were in possession of the Church. Thereupon Paul sent to him Bartho∣lomew Roverella, Cardinal Priest of St. Clements, as Legate; who did in some measure satisfie the King. And at that time I believe, they both fear'd, lest the Eclipses of the Sun and Moon, which all Men were then astonish'd at, might portend some changes in Government. Nor can you think the heavenly Bodies have no efficacy; for the year after Francis Sfortia Duke of Millain and Genoua died. For he had gotten Genoua two years before, being after a long War surrender'd by the Citi∣zens. For they having rejected the French Government which they had formerly courted, kill'd six thousand of the French under the Nose of King Renatus, who came with some Galleys well arm'd, to retrieve the City that had now revolted from the French. When Francis Sfortia Duke of Millain was dead, Paul summon'd the Cardinals to consult what was to be done. They all concluded that he must send Letters and Nuncioes to all the Princes of Italy, and to all States, to persuade 'em against Innovations, and to maintain the establish'd Peace; especially at that unhappy time when we were so threatned by the Turk the com∣mon Enemy. And afterward he sent the Bishop of Conca to Millain, to persuade that State, to have regard to the Allegiance they had sworn to Galeatius, Francis's Son. At that time Galeatius was absent in France, whither his Father had sent him with an Army, to assist King Lewis against the Princes of his Kingdom, that acknowledg'd not his Authority. For Francis was bound by the League he made with him, when he possest himself of Genoa, to supply him with some Auxiliaries: Besides the Al∣legiance which they had contracted obliged him to it; for he had mar∣ried the Sister of the Queen and the Duke of Savoy. When he heard of his Father's Death, he relinquish'd the War which he engaged in upon the King's account against the Duke of Burgundy, and going from Lions return'd with a small Retinue and in a disguise to his own Country, where he peaceably possess'd himself of his paternal inheritance by the help of his Mother who kept the people in Obedience till he came. But Paul, when the Affairs of Italy were thus composed, hearing that the Rhodian Soldiers were ready to starve, he summon'd the Grand Master (and the great Clergymen) to Rome, to consider of a Relief, who after frequent meetings in St. Peters, died for grief and Age, and was buried in that Church, not far from St. Andrew's Chappel: in whose room

Charles Ʋrsin was chosen and sent immediately to defend the Island. In the mean time when Paul heard that there were a great many Hereticks in Tagliacozzo, he having heard their cause severely branded the Lord of the place, eight Men and six Women (which were caught and brought before him) being those that were most obstinate; but dealt more fa∣vourably with those that confessed their Error and begg'd pardon. They were of those perverse sort of Hereticks who say, there never was any true Vicar of Christ since St. Peter, but who had imitated Christ's Po∣verty. Then he encreased the number of Cardinals; and made ten at one time, of which number were Francis of Savona General of the Order of Minors, M. Barbo, Bishop of Vincenza, whose Advice he always took in great Affairs, Oliver Arch-Bishop of Naples, Amicus Bishop of Aquila, and Theodore Montferrat; and the rest were partly French, Hungarians and English. Having thus augmented the College, he apply'd himself wholly to settle the peace of Italy. For certain Florentines, who were banish'd by Peter Medices's Faction in a civil Tumult (as Detesalvus Neronius, Angelus Accioiolus, and Nicolas Soderinus) had persuaded Bar∣tholomew of Bergamo, who had a good Army of Horse and Foot, to march into Tuscany, and restore them and all the other banish'd Persons to their Country, the Venetians under-hand lending their assistance; these seem'd to be able and to design to overthrow the State of Italy at first dash. But Galeatius D. of Milan with the Forces of the King and of the Florentine people posting himself in his way, he slacken'd his march and endeavour'd to get the better rather by protracting the War than by fighting. One fierce Battel however under the conduct of the Count of Ʋrbin they fought in the Territories of Bologna near a Town call'd Ri∣cardina, where no doubt the Bergamese had been utterly ruin'd, if Ga∣leatius had been there; but he was gone to Florence a little before, to settle matters relating to the War. Those that were present at this Battel say, that it was fought with the greatest obstinacy and the most nume∣rous slaughters of any in our Age. But now the Venetians bethink themselves for their own safety, rather than that of the Bergamese, and though they sent some Forces to his assistance, yet they sought earnestly a Peace, and referr'd the whole matter to the Pope; who also lying un∣der great apprehensions, if the King of Naples and Duke of Millain should obtain a compleat Victory, urg'd on the Peace too. It was in∣deed the Opinion of many Men of Understanding, that the Pope was not altogether against Bartholomew's Design, knowing that if an altera∣tion were made in the Government of Florence, he might with greater facility make War upon Ferdinand, whom he so hated, that he endea∣vour'd to raise him up more Enemies in Italy. Having hereupon called together the Embassadours of the several Princes, he mediated a Peace upon these terms, That each Party should restore what they had taken in the War, That Bartholomew should retire with his Forces into Lom∣bardy, and That for the rest the Conditions of that Peace should be ob∣served, which had been made at Lodi between Francis Sforza and the Venetians. One Point was yet to be Disputed, Whether the Duke of Savoy and his Brother Philip should be included in this Peace, who that year taking pay of the Venetians, had ravag'd Galeatius's Country with their Forces. Galeatius denied to yield to it, professing no Man should ever be his Ally and Friend, who was an Enemy to the King of France.

But Paul with Promises and fair words made shift to get Galeatius's Em∣bassador to sign it contrary to his Master's order, which so enrag'd Galea∣tius that he banish'd the said Embassador, Lorenzo da Pesaro, and so in∣fested the Savoyards, that they were forced to sue for Peace, which by the intercession of the Queen of France and Duchess of Milan, both Sisters to the Duke of Savoy, they at last procur'd, upon conditions pro∣posed by the King of France. Affairs thus setled, Paul had a little lei∣sure; and instituted sumptuous Plays, and made noble Feasts after the ancient manner for the people of Rome, Vianesius of Bologna, Vice-Cham∣berlain to his Holiness taking care of them. He proposed eight Cloaks to be run for each day in the Carneval; old Men, middle-ag'd, young Men, nay Jews, took their fortune in the Races, as also did even Horses, Mares, Asses, Buffals, to the incredible pleasure of the Spectators. The Race was from Domitian's Arch to St. Mark's Church, where the Pope himself stood to behold it with great satisfaction; who after the sport was over gave to every Boy that ran (daub'd all over with Dirt) a Carlin [a piece of Money]. But Paul amidst all this publick Jollity was on a sud∣den seiz'd with a terrour unexpected; for news was brought him, that se∣veral young Men, whose Ring-leader was one Callimaco, had form'd a Plot against him; and the Narrative of it was no sooner made out to him, when (he being already almost dead with fear) comes a Fellow that call'd him∣self the Philosopher, a sad Wretch and a banish'd Man, who (first begging pardon for his life and liberty to live in his Country) shams a Story upon him, that he saw in the Wood of Velitre, one Luca Tozzo, a Citizen of Rome but banish'd, with a great number of other Banditi, and that they were just coming upon him. This made Paul tremble for fear, apprehending that now, being attack'd both without and within, he should surely be undone: and therefore he clapt up a great many both Citizens and Courtiers. Vianesius gave him occasions of fear, and so did any one about him who from a turn of Affairs could probably expect an augmentation either of Dignity or Estate. They broke up Mens Houses without distinction, and drag'd to Prison any body they suspected, and lest I should have miss'd my share in so great a calamity, they came by Night and set a Guard about my House, broke open the Windows and Doors, and seiz'd my Servant Demetrius a Lucchese, who told them I sup'd that Night with the Cardinal of Mantua; hither then they fly and taking me in his Chamber, they bring me before Paul, who as soon as he saw me, Are you too (says he) in the Plot with Callimaco against me? But I, conscious of my Innocence, answer'd him so fearlesly, that no sign of guilt appear'd in me. He being negligently drest and looking pale urg'd me still, and sometimes threatned me with Torments and some∣times with Death, unless I would confess.

I seeing all places full of out∣rage and tumults, and fearing lest we should suffer mischief, by reason of the terrour and rage that I saw had possess'd them, shew'd many rea∣sons, why I could not believe Callimaco would attempt nor so much as to think of any such Design, being without cunning, an ill speaker, unactive, regardless, without Wealth, wanting Forces, Dependents, Ammunition, and beside being almost blind; more drowsie than P. Lentulus and more unfit for action, by means of his corpulence, than L. Crassus. Moreover, he was no Citizen of Rome, that he should concern himself for the liberty of his Country; nor was he a Prelate

that upon the taking off of Paul, he should expect the Papacy. What could Callimaco do? What dare he do? Was he good either at Dis∣course or Action? Had he listed any Men to assist him in bringing about so important a Design; unless you will make Glaucus and Petreius, the Companions of his flight, to be other Gabinii and Statilii.

At this Paul turns him to Vianesius, and looking sternly upon me, (says he) this Man is to be forced with the Rack to confess the truth; for he understands the true Art of Plotting. Would to God Paul had dealt more considerately with me, he had not then applyed tortures to me. For when the Truth is to be gathered from circumstances, the matter of fact not being sufficiently made out, then those Actions are to be taken notice of that either preceded or ensued upon the Enterprise; the life of the Complotter is to be considered and his way of living, his Ambition and greediness, either of wealth or honour, and what he had before talk'd or written or done, that look'd that way, But Paul with∣out regard had to any of these, clap'd us all up in Jail: and yet taking advice of some who knew the thing well enough and knew that Luca Tozzo had never departed a foot from the City of Naples, to create so great a commotion with such danger to himself, he recall'd a Proclama∣tion he had published three days before, wherein he had proposed re∣wards to them that should bring his Traitor Luca to him either alive or dead, not discharging however the Quadratii, whom he had seiz'd and tortur'd upon suspicion of the same. He design'd it should be thought that there was something in it yet undiscover'd, lest he should be charg'd with levity. But Paul being rid of that fear, begins to think of us; and sends into the Castle Vianesius, John Francisco, Sanga of Chiozza and one of his Guard, to force us with any kind of torture to confess what we knew nothing of. The first and second day many were put to the Rack, of whom a great part died of their pains under the hands of the Execu∣tioner. You would have taken Castle St. Angelo for Phalaris his Bull, the hollow Vault did so resound with the cries of those miserable young Men. Lucidus as innocent a Man as any in the World suffer'd the Rack, as did Marsus Demetrius and Augustinus Campanus a hopeful young Man and an honour to his Age for Wit and Learning, who I think died soon af∣ter of pain and anguish. The Tormenters were yet not satisfied, though weary, having tortur'd twenty Men in those two days, but sent for me to take my turn too. The Executioners set themselves to their busi∣ness, the Instruments of Torture were ready, I was stript, torn and used like a Murtherer or a Thief; whilst Vianesius sat like another Minos upon a Tapestry-Seat, as if he had been at a Wedding or rather at Atreus and Tantalus's Feast; a Man (I say) in Holy Orders whom the Ecclesiasti∣cal Canons forbid to be Inquisitors by Torture upon Lay men, lest if Death follow, as it often does, they should become Irregular (as they term it) and profane. And to add to my misery, while wretched I hung on the Rack in torment, he play'd with a Jewel that Sanga had, asking him of what Girl he had got that Love-token; and then the Love-talk being over, he turns to me and bids me give him a full Narrative of the Conspiracy or rather Sham-Plot contrived by Callimaco, and to tell him why Pomponio writing to me from Venice should call me Holy Fa∣ther? What, says he, the Conspirators had agreed to make you Pope! Beside he examin'd me whether I had not sent Letters by Pomponio to the

Emperor or any other Christian Prince in order to raise a Schism or pro∣cure a Council? I answer'd that I never was a party in the Counsels of Callimaco, for there was an old grudg between us; that I knew not why Pomponio should call me Holy Father, himself could best tell, who, he said, was to be brought Prisoner quickly; as for the Popedom, they need not trouble their heads about me, I having been always content with a private life; that I never sent any Letter to the Emperor, or made use of Pomponio to that purpose, which also might be known from him. At last having a little pleased but not satisfied himself with my Tortures, he ordered me to be let down, that I might undergo torments much greater in the Evening. I was carried half dead into my Chamber, but not long after, the Inquisitors having din'd, and drunk lustily, I was fetch'd again, and Lorenzo Arch-Bishop of Spalato was there. They ask'd me then what discourse it was that I had with Sigismund Malatesta who was then in the City? I said, the discourse we had was onely concern∣ing the ancient and modern Learning, way of fighting, and famous Men, or such like things as are the common subjects of talk. Vianesius then threatned me bitterly with yet greater tortures, unless I would confess the truth, and told me he was to come again the next day, advising me in the mean time to consider where I was and whom I had to do withal. So I was carried back to my Bed-chamber, where I was seized with such extream pain, that I had rather have died than endur'd, all the aches of my shaken and batter'd limbs coming afresh upon me. But I was not a little refresh'd by the kindness of Angelo Bufalo a Knight of Rome, who had been committed to Prison a year before by Paul, because his Son Marcellus had killed Francis Cappocio, which was charged to be done by his instigation. This Angelo and his Nephew Francis being my Chamber-fellows did with their own hands assist me both with Food and Physic, otherwise I had died of pain and want: Two days after Paul's Physician, Christopher of Verona, came to me from the Pope and bad me have a good heart and hope well of him, and I should soon have my liberty. I asked him in how long time it might be expected? Nay (says he frankly in the hearing of every one) not so very soon neither; lest the Pope should be charg'd with levity and cruelty for having with so much noise taken and tortur'd so many Men and then letting them go immediately as innocent. But Paul left not the matter so, but altering his mind upon a running report, accuses those now of Heresie whom he had before charged with Plotting of Treason. Pomponio was at this time brought from Venice like another Jugurtha, in bonds to be tried, a down∣right honest Man and guilty neither of the Plot nor any other ill thing. Being examined why he changed the names of the Men he wrote to, he answer'd boldly as his humour was, that it did not concern either his Judges or the Pope, under what name he pleased to go, so that he had no naughty end in it; for that out of respect to Antiquity he was wont to make use of many antient names, as spurs to egg on the modern Youth to a virtuous Emulation. Lucillus also who led a very reserv'd life in the Country near Rome, was fetch'd up before them for Treason, because in a Letter of his to Campanus which they had intercepted, he had faln foul upon some body, under the name of Heliogabalus, for his Love-tricks, but with such conceal'd expressions, that no one who was not conscious would take it to himself. Our diligent Pastor, Vianesius, frequently vi∣siting

us with tortures, and having tormented Petreius the Companion of Callimaco (whom they had taken endeavouring to make his escape, and he confessing nothing, but saying that the drunken talk of Callimaco was not to be regarded) casting his eyes about as if he fear'd we should have got Wings like Daedalus and fled out of our Prison, he projected the making a dungeon for us and set Workmen about it. When it was finished he put into it Francisco Anguillara, Gattalusco, Francisco Al∣viano, and Giaiomo Ptolemeo who had already pin'd away four years in Prison. But not a word yet could we hear of our freedom. At this time the Emperor came to Rome, (according to a Vow he had made) with a splendid Attendance, whom Paul entertain'd with great magni∣ficence, at the expence of eighteen thousand Ducats. I saw them from the Castle returning under the same Canopy from the Lateran with a noble retinue; and Paul stood still upon the Bridg, while the Emperor made several Knights. The Emperor departing, and Paul by having quarter'd the greatest part of his Forces both Horse and Foot in the City, being rid of the fear he had lest the People should have raised tumults upon him when the Emperor was there, after we had lain ten months in Jail, he comes to the Castle himself, and that it might seem, that he made so great ado not without cause, he charged us with many things, but especially that we had disputed concerning the Immortality of the Soul, and that we held the Opinion of Plato, which S. Augustin says is very like to the Christian Faith. 'Tis with good reason (says the Saint) that Cicero makes Plato a God among the Philosophers, who certainly out-went them all for Wit and Understanding: and with him therefore I chose to dispute, because he reasons concerning the last end of Man and the Divine Nature better than any of the rest. But, says Paul, By disputing you call'd the Being of a God into question. Now this was no more than may be objected to all both Divines and Philosophers of our times, who for Discourse-sake and that the truth may appear, do fre∣quently make a question of the beings of Souls and of God and of all separate Intelligences. Besides, as S. Austin says, those are Heretics, who defend with earnestness any false Opinion they have taken up. We ne∣ver declin'd sound Discipline, which (as Leo says) is wont to be done by the Ringleaders of Error, who are deservedly called Heretics, accord∣ing to S. Jerom, for maintaining Opinions in opposition to the Church. I could give you an Account of my Life from my youth till this time, ever since I came to years of understanding. No ill action can be charg'd upon me, no theft, no pilfering, no sacriledg, no cheat upon the publick, no murther, no rapine, nor Simony. I have lived like a Christian, con∣fess'd and receiv'd the Communion at least once a year. Nothing ever fell from my mouth against the Faith or relishing of Heresie. I follow'd neither Simoniacs, the Carpocratiani, Ophilae, Severiani, Alogii, Paulini, Manichees, Macedoniani, nor any other heretical faction. But beside, Paul accused us as too great admirers of Pagan Antiquities, of which no Man could be more fond than himself, for he procur'd all the Statues of the Antients that he could throughout the City, and plac'd them in his House which he had built near the Campidoglio; among the rest he took away a Porphyry Tomb of S. Constantia out of the Church of S. Ag∣nes, maugre the denial of the Monks of the place, who yet after Paul's death, got it again of Pope Sixtus. Beside, after the old Heathen way,

he coin'd an infinite number of Medals with his own Image, of Gold, Sil∣ver and Brass, and laid them in the foundations of his House; herein imi∣tating rather the antient Paynims, than S. Peter, Anacletus or Linus. Up∣on a debate of our matter before the Court-Bishops and two Friers, one a Franciscan, the other a Dominican, they agreed all, that nothing could be charged upon us that savour'd of Heresie. But Paul coming to the Castle, and having on purpose excluded Francisco who favour'd us, that so Leonardo our Accuser, might speak the more freely, he repeated what he had said the day but one before; and then ask'd the Opinion of those that were present, who though they spoke somewhat to please the Pope, yet they made a light business of it, and endeavour'd to persuade him into a milder temper. Amongst them all Lelio del Val, a Citizen of Rome and an Advocate in the Consistory, defended our Cause very generously. He confuted all that Leonard had said and what the other Advocate had as∣serted; but as they were arguing, mention chanc'd to be made of the Academy, which was no sooner said, but M. Barbo Cardinal of S. Mark, cries out that we were not Academicks but a scandal to the name. Now I cannot think how we should bring any reproach to it at all: we were neither thieves, nor pilferers, nor incendiaries, nor prodigal fools; we were sectators of the old Academy, despising the new as establishing no∣thing certain upon which Science might be built; but Paul would not have the Academy so much as mention'd under pain of being pronounc'd Heretical, which was a reflection upon good old Plato and let him look to it. Paul lov'd in every kind of learning to be thought an acute and skilful Man; he desir'd too to go for a facetious Person, so that he derided and contemn'd almost all Men. He after a scornful manner ask'd Pomponio, what was the name his Parents gave him? who answer'd he was Binomius [i.e. had two names] which Paul not understanding, persisted to ask his name still. At last turning to me, he fell into a rage to such a degree that, beside charging me with the Plot, Heresie and Treason, of which I had cleared my self; he upbraided me too with Ingratitude against so kind a Friend as he had been to me: If it be a kindness for a Man to be turn'd out of that which he has bought with his Mony without telling any reason; if to be imprison'd, tormented, disgrac'd and slander'd be a kindness, then Paul was my special bountiful Friend, and I was very ungrateful, who unmindful of such Courtesies, did not depart the City in obedience to his command, when I had been so often deceiv'd by his Promises. He went away threatning us and kept us in Prison a whole year as I believe he had sworn he would, when he took us first and clap'd us up; and he was not willing to seem forsworn. At length how∣ever we were enlarg'd so far as to have the liberty of his own House, but not to stir a foot out of it; and soon after we had the freedom of the Vatican, and in the end, being wearied with the Intercessions of the Car∣dinals, he set us free. Not long after I was sent for by Lewis Gonzaga Duke of Mantua to the Baths, in order to cure my right Arm which had contracted a great indisposition during my imprisonment; which Paul forbad me at first to do; promising to do great things for me in a little time; but I went and return'd, Cardinal Bessarion a Person of great wit, and learning, being Security for my coming back. Paul commended me that I was as good as my word, and would often boast what a kindness he had for me, and what great things he would do for me as soon as

Borsius d' Este was gone, who coming to the City with a great Equipage was very magnificently and splendidly received by him. The same he had often promised to the Ambassadours of Venice and Milan, who had spoken on my behalf. For two years I was led on or rather beguil'd with these hopes, till at length I resolv'd to go with the Cardinal of Mantua to Bononia, of which he was Legat. But Paul forbad me, and (after his jesting manner) said I had wit enough already, and wanted Wealth rather than Learning. And now while I was in expectation that I should be reliev'd after so many troubles and afflictions, behold the Pope dies of an Apoplexy about two hours within night, being alone in his Chamber, having been well that day and held a Consistory. His death happened July 28. 1471. in the sixth year and tenth month of his Pon∣tificate. As to his Personage, it was Majestic and becoming a Pope; for he was so portly and tall, that he was easily distinguishable from the rest, when at Mass; In his dress though he was not curious yet he was not reputed negligent. Nay, 'tis said that when he was to appear in public, he would use to paint his face. In his Pontifical Vestments he outwent all his Predecessors, especially in his Regno or Mitre, upon which he laid out a great deal of Mony in purchasing at vast rates, Diamonds, Sapphyrs, Emeralds, Chrysoliths, Jaspers, Unions, and all manner of precious stones, wherewith adorn'd like another Aaron he would appear abroad somewhat more august than a Man, delighting to be seen and admir'd by every one. To this purpose sometimes by deferring some usual Solem∣nities he would keep Strangers in Town, that so he might be view'd by greater numbers. But lest he alone should seem to differ from the rest, he made a Decree that none but Cardinals, should under a Penalty wear red Caps; to whom he had in the first year of his Popedom given Cloth of that colour, to make Horse-Cloths or Mule-Cloths of when they rode. He was also about to order that Cardinals Caps should be of Silk Scarlet; but some Persons hindred it by telling him well, that the Ec∣clesiastical Pomp was rather to be diminished than encreased to the de∣triment of the Christian Religion. Before he was made Pope, he used to give out, that if ever he came to that good fortune, he would give each Cardinal a Castle in the Country where they might retire conve∣niently to avoid the Summer-heats of the City: but when he was once got into the Chair, he thought of nothing less. However, he endea∣vour'd by his Authority and by force too to augment the Power of the Papacy: For he sent the Bishop of Tricarico into France to hear the Cause of quarrel between the Duke of Burgundy and the People of Liege, and upon their reconciliation, to take off the Interdict laid upon the Lie∣geois for wrongfully expelling their Bishop; but while the Legat took great pains to subject all matters to the Pope's Judgment, he and their Bishop too were clapt up by the Liegeois. Hereupon the Duke of Bur∣gundy makes Peace with the French King (with whom he was before at War) and with his aid, gives those of Liege several great defeats and at length sacks their City and sets free the imprison'd Bishops: Moreover, Paul hearing of the Apostasie of the King of Bohemia, he by his Legat, Lorenzo Roverella Bishop of Ferrara, raised the Hungarians and Germans upon him, so that he had certainly cut off both the King George and his Progeny, and utterly rooted out the Heretics, had not the Polanders, who laid claim to that Kingdom, held Matthias King of Hungary employ'd

in War, lest he should have made himself Master of it. He undertook two Wars of no great moment in Italy, which being not openly decla∣red, but begun by picqueering Parties, he afterwards abandon'd. For first he attempted the seizing the Signeury of Tolfa by cunning wiles, which failing, with open force, under the conduct of Vianesius he set upon it and besieged it; but the King's Army (in which the Ʋrsini serv'd) returning from the War they had now ended with Bartholomew of Ber∣gamo, on a sudden he raised the Siege in great disorder, though the Ene∣my was not within sixty miles of the place; so that after a long conten∣tion in which he had extreamly disobliged and almost enrag'd the Ʋrsini against him, he was fain to purchase Tolfa for seventeen thousand Ducats of Gold, for fear of that potent Family who were related to the Lords of the place. After the same manner he set upon Robert Malatesta Son of Sigismund, when having taken the Suburbs of Rimini by a Stratagem, and for sometime having besieged the City, Lorenzo Arch-Bishop of Spa∣lato being the chief in the Enterprise, Frederick D. of Ʋrbin came upon him with the King's Forces and those of the Florentines, who forc'd him to raise his Siege, and foil'd his Army shamefully, so that he accepted of a Peace upon very dishonourable terms. Lorenzo charg'd the reason of the loss of Rimini upon the niggardliness of his pay to the Soldiers; and to the great slowness of his Resolution, while through ignorance in affairs of that nature, he deliberated long about actions which should be done in a moment. Paul was indeed so awkward at business, that, except he were driven to it, he would not enter upon any Affair however plain and unencumbred, nor when begun would he bring it to peofection. This humour of his, he was wont to boast, had done him great service in ma∣ny concerns, whereas (to speak truth) it had been very mischievous both to himself and the Church of Rome. He yet was very diligent in getting Mony, so that he generally intrusted the disposal of Bishopricks and Benefices to such Courtiers, whose Places being saleable, nothing could be bestowed without a Present. All Offices indeed in his time were set to sale, whereby it came to pass, that he who had a mind to a Bishoprick or Benefice, would purchase of him at a good rate some other Office, and so get what he would have, in spight of any other Candidates, who could pretend upon the score of either Learning or good Life to be capable of whatsoever honour or preferment. Beside when Bishopricks were vacant, he would remove the more worthy (as he call'd them) to the more wealthy Seat, by these Translations raising vast Sums of Mony, because more Annates became due at the same time. He also allow'd the purchasing of Salaries. With these Moneys he would sometimes be very liberal, giving exhibitions to the poorer Cardinals and Bishops, and to Princes or Noblemen that were driven out of their Country, and relie∣ving poor Maidens, Widows and sick People. He took great care too, that Corn and all manner of Victuals should be afforded cheaper at Rome than formerly. He was at the charge of several magnificent Buildings near Saint Mark's and in the Vatican. An instance of his Munificence was, the Hunting which with great charge he caused to be represented in the Campo di Merula, for the entertainment of the Duke of Ferrara: The management of which was committed to his Nephew by his Sister, whom he had made Cardinal of S. Lucia, and at the same time conferred the like honour of a Cardinal on Baptista Zeno his other Nephew. It

was a hard thing to gain access to him, considering he would sleep in the day-time and be awake in the night looking over his Jewels and pretious Stones; and if after long waiting you came into his presence, you might hear him indeed, but your self could not be heard; he was so very talkative. He was morose and peevish as well to his Courtiers as Strangers, and would often alter his mind from what he had promised. He had a great mind to be thought a politick Man, and would therefore give very ambigu∣ous answers; so that he continued not long his Friendships with any Princes or Commonwealths, himself having several different Interests. He lov'd to have great variety of Dishes at his Table, and generally eat of the worst; but would be clamorous if what he used to like were not pro∣vided. He drank often, but his Wine was small and diluted with Water. He loved Melons, Crabs, Sweetmeats, Fish and Bacon; which odd kind of Diet, I believe, caused the Apoplexy of which he died; for the day before his death he had eat two very large Melons. He was reputed a just and yet a merciful Man; endeavouring to amend even Thieves, Murderers, Traitors and perjur'd Villains, by tedious Impri∣sonment. But he was a great Enemy and Despiser of Human Learning, branding those for Heretics that gave their minds to it: and dissuading the People of Rome from putting their Children to be brought up to it, telling them that it was enough if they had learn'd to write and read. He was known to be ill-condition'd and inexorable to Petitioners, not onely denying, but reproaching and abusing them; but yet he would make a show of doing less than he would do. Lastly, one thing he was highly to be commended for, that he kept no ill Men about him; but contain'd his Family and all his Domestics in their due bounds; that their pride and insolence might not procure him the hate of the great Men and People of Rome.

The End of the Lives of the POPES,

Written by B. Platina.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Tiberius.
• * 1.2

  Caliga signi∣fying a Com∣mon Soldier's Hose.
• * 1.3

  Claudius.
• * 1.4

  Simon Ma∣gus.
• * 1.5

  S. Mark.
• * 1.6

  James.
• * 1.7

  Barnabas.
• * 1.8

  Paul.
• * 1.9

  Galba.
• * 1.10

  Otbc.
• * 1.11

  Vitellius.
• * 1.12

  Philo Judoeus.
• * 1.13

  Josephus.
• * 1.14

  One of the Divisions of the City of Rome, answer∣ing to one of our Wards in London.
• * 1.15

  Vespasianus.
• * 1.16

  Titus.
• * 1.17

  Luke.
• * 1.18

  Philip.
• * 1.19

  Domitian.
• * 1.20

  S. John.
• * 1.21

  Nerva.
• * 1.22

  Trajanus.
• * 1.23

  Ignatius.
• * 1.24

  Trajan.
• * 1.25

  Papias.
• * 1.26

  Quadratus.
• * 1.27

  Aristides:
• * 1.28

  Adrian.
• * 1.29

  Agrippa Ca∣stor.
• * 1.30

  Bafilides.
• * 1.31

  Antoninus Pius.
• * 1.32

  Justin Mar∣tyr.
• * 1.33

  Antonimus Pius.
• * 1.34

  Polycarp.
• * 1.35

  Verus and Commodus.
• * 1.36

  Hermes.
• * 1.37

  Apollinaris.
• * 1.38

  Tatianus.
• * 1.39

  Egesippus.
• * 1.40

  Commodus.
• * 1.41

  Apelles.
• * 1.42

  Cataphrygae.
• * 1.43

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.44

  Lucius Rex.
• * 1.45

  Apollonius.
• * 1.46

  Gen. 1.
• * 1.47

  Esay 45.
• * 1.48

  Aelius Per∣tinax.
• * 1.49

  Julianus.
• * 1.50

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.51

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.52

  Maximus.
• * 1.53

  Candidus.
• * 1.54

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.55

  Mat. 19. 12.
• * 1.56

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.57

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.58

  Tertullian.
• * 1.59

  Origen.
• * 1.60

  Antoninus.
• * 1.61

  Tryphon.
• * 1.62

  Minutius Felix.
• * 1.63

  Alexander.
• * 1.64

  Alexander Severus.
• * 1.65

  Origen.
• * 1.66

  Maximine.
• * 1.67

  Julius Afri∣canus.
• * 1.68

  Gordianus.
• * 1.69

  Philip.
• * 1.70

  Novatianus.
• * 1.71

  Decius.
• * 1.72

  Gallus.
• * 1.73

  Aemilianus
• * 1.74

  Valerianus.
• * 1.75

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.76

  S. Cyprian.
• * 1.77

  Posthumus.
• * 1.78

  Victorinus.
• * 1.79

  Malchion
• * 1.80

  Presbyter.
• * 1.81

  Sabellius.
• * 1.82

  Cerinthus,
• * 1.83

  Nepos.
• * 1.84

  Claudius.
• * 1.85

  Quintillus.
• * 1.86

  Paulus Sa∣mosatenus.
• * 1.87

  Aurelianus.
• * 1.88

  Manes.
• * 1.89

  Tacitus.
• * 1.90

  Florianus.
• * 1.91

  Dorotheus.
• * 1.92

  Anatolius.
• * 1.93

  Probus.
• * 1.94

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.95

  Victorinus.
• * 1.96

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.97

  Diocletian.
• * 1.98

  Constantius and Gale∣rius.
• * 1.99

  Constantine.
• * 1.100

  Inventio Cru∣cis.
• * 1.101

  Lactantius.
• * 1.102

  Eusebius.
• * 1.103

  Maxentius.
• * 1.104

  Maximine.
• * 1.105

  Licinius.
• * 1.106

  Constantine.
• * 1.107

  Arius.
• * 1.108

  The Council of Nice.
• * 1.109

  Photinians and Sabel∣lians.
• * 1.110

  Inventio Cric∣cis.
• * 1.111

  Anthony
• * 1.112

  Hermite.
• * 1.113

  Juvencus
• * 1.114

  Hispanus.
• * 1.115

  Constantius.
• * 1.116

  Constantius & Constans.
• * 1.117

  Donatus.
• * 1.118

  Asterius.
• * 1.119

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.120

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.121

  Eunomius.
• * 1.122

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.123

  Julian.
• * 1.124

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.125

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.126

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.127

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.128

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.129

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.130

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.131

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.132

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.133

  Optatus Mi∣levitanus.
• * 1.134

  Gratianus.
• * 1.135

  S. Ambrosius.
• * 1.136

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.137

  Greg. Nazi∣anzen.
• * 1.138

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.139

  Theodosius.
• * 1.140

  Apollinaris.
• * 1.141

  Cyril.
• * 1.142

  Arcadius and Honorius.
• * 1.143

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.144

  S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.145

  Theodosius secundus.
• * 1.146

  Nestorius.
• * 1.147

  Valentinian.
• * 1.148

  Acephali.
• * 1.149

  Leo Empe∣rour.
• * 1.150

  Victorinus.
• * 1.151

  Merline.
• * 1.152

  Leo II. and Zeno.
• * 1.153

  Theodoric.
• * 1.154

  Theodoric
• * 1.155

  Anastasius.
• * 1.156

  Fulgentius.
• * 1.157

  Egesippus.
• * 1.158

  The days on which they suffered were anciently so called.
• * 1.159

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.160

  Justinus.
• * 1.161

  Benedict.
• * 1.162

  Bridget.
• * 1.163

  Cassiodorus.
• * 1.164

  Priscian.
• * 1.165

  Totilas.
• * 1.166

  Narses.
• * 1.167

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.168

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.169

  Justine.
• * 1.170

  Tiberius II.
• * 1.171

  Mauritius.
• * 1.172

  Luke 24.
• * 1.173

  Johannes 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.174

  Mahomet.
• * 1.175

  The Au∣thor's quibble upon the name of the Tyrant, Lupus being the Latin word for a Wolf.
• * 1.176

  John 10. 30.
• * 1.177

  John 14. 28.
• * 1.178

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.179

  Philippicus.
• * 1.180

  Anastasius.
• * 1.181

  Tbeodosius.
• * 1.182

  Charles Martell.
• * 1.183

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 1551.
• * 1.184

  Sept. 21. 1421▪