The present state of the Ottoman Empire containing the maxims of the Turkish politie, the most material points of the Mahometan religion, their sects and heresies, their convents and religious votaries, their military discipline ... : illustrated with divers pieces of sculpture, representing the variety of habits amongst the Turks, in three books / by Paul Rycaut Esq. ...

CHAP. IV. A true relation of the designs managed by the old Queen, Wife of Sultan Ahmet, and Mother of Sultan Morat, and Sultan Ibrahim, against her Grand-child Sultan Mahomet who now Reigns; and of the death of the said Queen and her Complices.

AFter the murder of Sultan Ibrahim, by conspiracy of the Janiza∣ries, Sultan Mahomet (eldest son of the late deceased Emperour, a child of nine years old) succeeded in the throne of his father; and the tuition of him, and administration of the Government (during his minority) was committed to the old Queen, the Grand-mother, cal∣led Kiosem; a Lady, who through her long experience, and practice in affairs, was able, and proper for so considerable an office; and so the young Sultan was conducted to the Mosch of Eiub, where with the accustomed Ceremonies, his sword was girt to his side, and he pro∣claimed Emperour through all the Kingdoms and Provinces of his Do∣minions.

For some time this old Queen governed all things according to her pleasure, until the Mother of this young Sultan (as yet trembling with the thoughts of the horrid death of her Lord; and fearing

lest the subtle and old Polititian the Grandmother (who had com∣passed the death of her husband) should likewise contrive the Murder of her Son, grew hourly more jealous of his life and safety; which su∣spition of hers was augmented by the knowledge she had of the am∣bitious and haughty spirit of the Grand-mother, and the private trea∣ties, and secret correspondence she held with the Janizaries, which compelled her to a resolution of making a faction likewise with the Spahees, and Pashaws, and Beyes, who had received their Education in the Seraglio, being a party alwaies opposite to the Janizaries. These she Courted by Letters, and Messages, complaining of the death and Murder of the Sultan her Husband, the Pride and Inso∣lence of the Janizaries; and small esteem was had of her Son, their undoubted Prince; adding, that if they provided not for their own safety, the Old Queen would abolish both the name and order of Spahees. The Asiatick Spahees awakened hereat, with a considerable Army marched to Scutari under the Conduct of Gurgi Nebi, and de∣manded the heads of those who had been the traytors and conspira∣tors against the sacred Life of their late Soveraign; all which were then under the protection of the Janizaries, and supported by the powerful Authority of the Queen Regent. Upon this Alarum, the Grand Visier, (called Morat Pashaw) who had had his Education amongst the Jani∣zaries, being adored by them as an Oracle, and engaged with them in the late Treason against the Sultan, speedily passed over from Constan∣tinople to Scutari, with an Army of Janizaries, and others of his favou∣rites and followers, transporting likewise Artillery and all necessaries for entrenchment; some skirmishes passed between the Van-guard of the Spahees and the Deli (which are the Visiers Guard) and thereby had engaged both the Armies; but that the two Chief Justices of Ana∣tolia and Greece interposing with their grave and religious countenan∣ces, preached to them of the danger and impiety there was in the ef∣fusion of Musselmins or believers bloud; and that, had they any just pretences, their plea should be heard, and all differences decided by the Law. These, and such like perswasions made impression on Gurgi Ne∣bi and other Spahees; and the posture they found their Adversaries in, to give them battel, made them inclinable to hearken to proposals for accomodation; but especially their courages were abated by what the Justices had declared, that in case they repaired not to their own homes, the Visier was resolved to burn all the Rolls, and pro∣claim a general Nesiraum through the whole Empire: (which is an Edict of the King and Mufti, commanding all the Turks of his Kingdoms from seven years old and upward to arm and follow him to the war.)

The Spahees hereupon dispersed themselves; and from their retreat encreased the Pride of the Janizaries faction, and of their chief Com∣manders, viz. Bectas Aga, highly favoured by the Queen Regent; Kul Kiahia Lieutenant of the Janizaries, and Kara Chiaus a follower of Bectas, who now esteemed themselves absolute Masters of the Em∣pire. These three now governed all matters, contriving in their se∣cret Councils the destruction of the Spahees; especially those famed for riches and valour; and as one of the first rank, gave order to the Pasha of Anatolia to take away the life of Gurgi Nebi, whom accordingly he one day assaulted in his quarters, and being abandoned by his

Souldiers shot him with a Pistol, and sent his head to Constanti∣nople.

The Spahees exasperated hereat, entred into private Councils and Conspiracies in Anatolia against the Janizaries, drawing to their party several Beyes and Pashaws of Asia (and particularly one Ipsir a Circasian born, but educated in the Seraglio, a Person of a couragious spirit, and powerful in men and treasure) assaulted many quarters of the Janiza∣ries in Asia, and cutting off their arms and noses, miserably slaughtered as many as fell into their hands.

On the other party Bectas Aga, secure in his condition, amassed wealth with both hands by new impositions, rapine, and other arts; causing to be coined at Belgrade 300 thousand Aspers, one third silver, and two of tinne; these Aspers he dispersed amongst the Tradesmen and Artisans, forcing others to exchange his false metal for Gold, at the value of 160 Aspers for the Hungarian Ducat. The people sensible of the cheat, begun a mutiny in the quarter of the Sadlers at Constantino∣ple, which encreased so fast, that the whole City was immediately in a general uproar: this tumult was violently carried to the place of the Mufti, whom they forced with the Seigh (who is the Grand Signiors Preacher) and the Nakib Esref, or Primate of the Mahometan Race, to accompany them to the Seraglio, where at the inward gate of the Royal Lodgings, with clamours and out-cries they made their complaint. In this danger the Grand Signior was advised by the Capi Agasi, and Solyman Aga, the Kuzlir Aga or chief Eunuch of the Women, that this happy conjuncture was to be embraced for the destruction of Bectas and his complices; but fear, and too much caution hindered that de∣sign for the present; only it was judged fit, for satisfaction of the multitude, that Metek Ahmet Pashaw (then Prime Visier, and yet a slave to the lusts of the Janizaries) should be deprived his office; which was immediately effected; and the Seal taken from him was deli∣vered to Siaus Pashaw, a Stout and Valiant person. This Visier being jealous of his own honour, and jealous for the safety of the Empire, cast about all ways to suppress the arrogance of Bectas and his ad∣herents; lest the like shame, and misfortune should befall him, as did to Murad Pasha one of his late Predecessors in the Office of Visier, who for dissenting from Bectas in opinion, had lost his life, had he not escaped his fury by flying into Greece. The times were also trouble∣some, and full of danger; the Janizaries kept guard in the streets, not suffering so much as two Citizens to walk together, for prevention of secret consultations; many Artisans, or handy-crafts-men were im∣prisoned, as principal in the late tumult, against the consent and or∣der of the new Visier; the Court was also divided; The Sultans par∣ty contrived to surprize and kill the rebellious Commanders of the Janizaries, and that the day following, the Lieutenant of the Bal∣tagees, or Hatchet-men, should encounter Kul-chiachia as he came ac∣cording to custom to the Divan, and slay him; but the Old Queen being of a contrary faction, with threats and menaces frighted that Officer from his design. The two Queens were exasperated highly against each other; one to maintain the Authority of her Son, and the other her own; in the City the confusion grew greater; the Janizaries were not pleased with the election of Siaus Passa, knowing him to be

averse to their faction; but yet considering the state of the times, they endeavoured with fair promises to allure him to their party. The Old Queen by Letters advised Bectos of all matters that were discours∣ed in the Seraglio, intimating that the Young Queen was Author of all these disturbances, and that therefore as a remedy of all these evils, it was necessary, that Sultan Mahomet should be deposed, and his younger Brother Solyman placed in his stead, who having a Mother, would be absolutely subject to her tuition: she added likewise that Solyman was a lusty youth, corpulent and Majestical, whereas Sultan Mahomet was lean, weakly, and unable for the Crown. Bectas having received this message from the Queen Regent, assembled a Council at Orta-giami, (that is the Janizaries Moseh) where was great and solemn appearance both of the Souldiery and Lawyers, (which latter are of the spiritual function among them) some out of friendship to their party, and others for fear of their power; only the Visier was wanting, whom they sent to invite, out of an opinion that he might be drawn to their side, and in case they found him opposite, then not to suffer him to escape alive from their Councils. It was then two hours in the night, when this message came to the Visier; and though it was against the state, and gravity of a Visier to go to any, but his Master; yet he thought it now time to dissemble, and overcome the greatness of his mind; and so with a private retinue went to the Mosch, where the first he encountred was a Guard of ten thousand Janizaries armed with their Muskets and Matches lighted, which at first so dismayed him that he had some thoughts of returning; but afterward recover∣ing himself, and taking courage, resolved to proceed; and coming to the Mosch, Bectas vouchsafed not to meet him, but sent another to perform that Ceremony; at which neglect though the greatness of his spirit could scarce contain it self; yet suppressing his choler, addressed himself to the feet of Bectas, who scarce arising gave him a faint well∣com; and setting him on his left hand, (which is the upper hand with the Turkish Souldiery) began to propound to him his new designs, and first that it was necessary, that the present King should be deposed, and Solyman Crowned in his place; that the Canons of the Imperial Sera∣glio should be reformed; and that whereas the Children of divers Na∣tions were yearly collected for the service of the Grand Signior, none should for the future have admission there, but the Sons of Janiza∣ries: The Visier consented to all that was proposed, professing a sin∣cere affection and reality to them, and their party, swearing upon the Alchoran, with the most horrid imprecations on himself, and his family, if he were not faithful to them and their designs; which gave Bectas that satisfaction that he began to perswade himself, that the Visier was really a confiding person, and one affectionate to their inte∣rest; and so partly from this consideration, and partly out of a confi∣dence of his own strength, and inability of the Visier to hurt him, fairly took his leave of him, and so dismissed his Kalaba Divan, or his confused Council. But the Chiachia Bei (or Lieutenant General of the Janizaries, and Kara-Chians reproved very much Bectas for per∣mitting the Visier to escape with his life, saying, he had done ill in suf∣fering the bird to escape out of the Cage; that he had released one, and permitted him to carry his head on his shoulders, who would shortly

take off theirs, with many words of the like effect. But Bectas slighted their reproof, as proceeding from want of courage, and the igno∣rance of their own power; and that the time until morning was so short, that should the Visier intend to countermine them, he was whol∣ly unable, being unprovided both of Power and Councel. The Visier being got free, went apace to the Seraglio, with two men only, thanking God as he walked, that he was freed from the hands of those Tyrants and Villains; and coming to the Iron gate, intending to pass through the Garden, he found it open contrary to the custom, and enquiring of the Bostangees or Gardiners the reason, he could learn nothing farther from them, then that it was the order of the Old Queen; who (as it appeared afterwards) expected her Confidents who might withdraw her that night into some retirement where she might remain secure from the dangers of the ensuing day. The Visier being entred, went softly to the Sultans apartments, and in his way by good chance met with the Kuzlir-Agasi Solyman Aga, the chief Eunuch of the Women, who in the dark was making his rounds about the old Queens Lodgings; by the Visiers voice Solyman knew who he was, but was amazed at his unseasonable Visit, yet understanding the business, thank∣ed him for his Vigilance; adding, that he had also observed that the Old Queen contrary to her custom, was not yet gone to bed, who did at other times at two hours in the night dispose her self to rest, only this Evening she had entertained her self in company of her Eunuchs, and Favourites, with Musick, Singing and other unusual delights. Wherefore after some short deliberation, the Visier, Solyman Aga, and others of the Kings Eunuchs went to the quarters of the Old Queen, and offering to enter forcibly, were repulsed by the Queens Eunuchs; but Solyman Aga being a stout man drew his Dagger and struck the chief Chamberlain Bash Kapa Oglar on the face, upon which the other Eu∣nuchs who accompanied Solyman entred furiously with their Daggers, at which the Eunuchs of the Queen flying, she remained alone in the Chamber, where she was committed to the Custody of the Kings Eunuchs. The fugitive Eunuchs would immediately have escaped out of the Seraglio, but the Gates were first shut by order of Solyman Aga, so that they with all other favourites of the said Queen were taken and secured in safe hands. This Victory was so secretly obtained, that they received no alarum in the Royal Lodgings, though near adjoyn∣ing; so that the Visier and Solyman Aga went to the Chamber where the King slept, and lifting up the Antiport, made a sign of silence to the Ladies of the Guard, commanding by dumb motions that the Young Queen should be awakened (for it is the custom in the Grand Signiors Court to speak by signs, to prevent noise, and as if there were some point in it of Majesty and decency, they have practised this mute language so fully, that they are able to recount stories in it) The La∣dies hereupon gently rubbing the Queens feet, raised her out of her sleep, and gave her to understand that Solyman Aga would speak with her; whereat the Queen surprised, leapt from her bed to speak with him, and was scarce informed of the business before she became so affrighted, that she could not contain her self within the bounds of moderation or silence, but with a great cry ran to take her Son as one distracted, and catching him up in her armes, cryed out, O Son, you and

I are dead; the Grand Signior likewise as a Child bewailed himself, and falling at the feet of Solyman Aga, said, Lala, Lala Kurtar-beni; which is Tutor, Tutor save me: He not without tears took his Lord into his arms, and with the Visier encouraged the Child and his Mother, protesting that they would rather die, then live to behold so horrid a ruine; and so accompanied him (some Ladies carrying before Torches lighted in their hands, to the Hozoda, which is the Presence Chamber or place where the Principal Officers of the Court attend) Upon the approach of the Torches, the Guard which watched in this Chamber was amazed, and walking towards the light to discover what there was, perceived that the Grand Signior was coming thither, and there∣upon rerurned again with all haste to awaken their companions, and calling them immediately to repair to their due service. The Grand Signior being seated on a Throne, which is alwayes remaining in the Presence Chamber; the Officers hereof (which are in number forty) presented themselves before him, desiring to know if His Majesty had any thing wherein to employ their Fidelity and Service. Hereat So∣lyman Aga said, He that eats the Kings Bread, should apply himself to the Kings service; we suffered the Traitots to destroy Sultan Ibrahim, and now they would also take this out of our hands; To you it belongs, who are His Majesties Principal Servitors, to afford him your utmost assistance. Eigiuse Mussapha Passa Sword-bearer to the Grand Signior, and chief of the Presence Chamber, a man of a Lions Heart and undaunted resolu∣tion, understood something formerly of the bad inclinations of the old Queen to wards the King, readily replyed, Great Master be not trou∣bled, tomorrow you shall see (God willing) the Heads of your Ene∣mies at your feet. The Visier and others in the mean time after a short Consult, fell to act, the exigencie of their Affairs admitting no delays; and in the first place, Pen and Ink being brought, an Order was pre∣sented to the Grand Signior to be subscribed for arresting the Bossangi∣Pasha as a Traitor, for having against the rule of the night kept open the Gate of the Kings Garden. This was done in an instant, he re∣moved from his Office and another constituted in his place, and at the same time the Oath of Allegiance was administred to him, who calling together the Gardiners in number about 500. caused them also all to swear faithful obedience to the Grand Signior, and to remain all that night, keeping good Guard at the Gates and Walls of the Gar∣dens. In the next place the Ichoglans were called up (who are the Grand Signiors Pages) and to proceed with the more privacy and least confusion, they went first to the Chamber of the Capa Agasi (who by his Office is over all the Youth of the Seraglio) and knocking gently at the Window, the Guards came at the noise, and demanded what the matter was? they answered, Awake the Capa Aga, and let him speak to us at the Window. But the Capa Aga would first know who they were that would speak with him: and when it was told him that it was the Visier and the Kuslir Aga, he answered, I am indisposed and cannot rise, but utter what you have to say at the Window; so they said, by His Majesties Order go and raise all the Ichoglans in the Seraglio, upon an important occasion; and yet the Capa Agasi would not stir, so that some believed him confederate in the Conspiracy; but the truth was, he was an ancient Man of 90 years, and unhealthful in his body. Where∣fore

Solyman Aga cried out with a loud voice, Aga raise the Ichoglans, Our King is ready to be taken out of our hands; but the Capa Agasi per∣sisted that he would not raise the Ichoglans or Pages, unless he brought a Command in writing from the King. In the Interim the Servants of the Capa Aga awakened, and hearing his discourse, could not contain themselves, but without farther order run to both the greater and lesser Chamber of the Pages; the Butler came to that which is called the greater Chamber; it was then five hours in the night when he en∣tred in, and running to the middle of the Chamber which was 80 pa∣ces in length, he made a stop and clapped his hands together; (To make such a noise in the Seraglio at night is a high misdemeanor) at which some being awakened, raised up their heads, and startled at such an unusual alarum, enquired the reason of it; at which he again clapping his hands, and crying out, Arise, the Grand Signior is like to be taken out of our hands, the whole Chamber was raised; so that you might have seen all the Ichoglans in number above 600. to rise and run in a confused manner, some without Cloaths, some without Arms to fight, some to fly, supposing the Janizaries were already entred the Seraglio. In this amaze came a Guard of Black and White Eunuchs to the door, advising them to arm themselves with what weapons were next at hand, and there to remain until they received farther Orders. All the other Chambers of Pages and Officers were in the same confusion, and were commanded in the like manner to arm themselves. The Grand Sig∣nior all this time fearing he should be put to Death as his Father was, could not be pacified until Mustapha Pasha his Sword-bearer taking him by the hand, shewed him his Attendants all armed, and ready at his command; and passing by one of the Windows of the Lodgings, was descryed by a young man, who cryed out with a loud Voice (God grant our King ten thousand years of life) at which all the Chamber shouted, * 1.1 Allah, Allah; this acclamation rang through all the Seraglio, so that it reached the more remote quarters of the Drogists, Cooks, Pole∣axe-men, Faulconers and others; who being ready and armed as the o∣thers, answered with the like shout.

These preparations were not only in the Seraglio, but likewise with∣out; for the Visier had given order to all the Pashaws and Beglerbegs and other his Friends, that without delay they should repair to the Seraglio with all the force they could make, bringing with them three days provisions, obliging them under pain of Death to this Duty. In a short space so great was this concourse, that all the Gardens of the Seraglio, the outward Courts and all the adjoyning streets were filled with armed men: from Galata and Tophana came Boats and Barges loaden with Powder and Ammunition and other necessaries; so that in the Morning by Break of day appeared such an Army of Horse and Foot in the Streets, and Ships and Gallies on the Sea, as administred no small terrour to the Janizaries; of which being advised and seeing the concourse of the people run to the assistance of the King, they thought it high time to bestir themselves; and therefore armed a great Company of Albaneses, Greeks and other Christians, to whom they offered Mo∣ney, and the Titles and Priviledges of Janizaries, promising to free them from Harach, or Impositions paid by the Christians; which Ar∣guments were so prevalent, that most taking Arms, you might see the

Court and City divided, and ready to enter into a most dreadful con∣fusion of a Civil War.

In the Seraglio all things were in good order, the Morning Devoti∣ons being finished, the Baltagees (who are a Guard that carry Poleaxes) called to the Pages to joyn with them, and accompany them to the Presence Chamber. These Baltagees were in number about 200 strong, of large stature, and of admirable agility; at whose beck the Pages ran with all alacrity to the door of the Chamber, where they at first re∣ceived a repulse from the Master of the Chamber who was an Eunuch, and one faithful to the Old Queens interest, who to yield all possible furtherance towards the protection of her Person, reproved the inso∣lence of the Rout in coming so boisterously to the Royal Lodgings: to which they unanimously answered that they would speak to His Majesty, and that it was their desire to have the Old Queen (Enemy to the King, and the Mahometane Faith) put to Death; at which words he being enraged, and relying on his Authority, reproved them with terms of Rebels and Traitors to their Master. What have you to do with the Queen (said he)? Are you worthy to open your mouths against her Serene Name? He reiterating these and the like words, one of this Rabble said, Kill that Cuckold, for he also is an Enemy of the Faith; and whilst one lifted up his hand to strike him, he fled by the way of the Tarras into the Garden, whither being pursued by five or six of them, he was overtaken, and catching him by the coller would have cut his throat, but that at his earnest entreaty they gave him so much liberty as first to cast himself at the feet of the Sultan: whither being dragged, he delivered to the King a Seal and a Key of Secret Treasure, and being about to say somthing in his own behalf and defence of his life, a bold youth of these Baltagees called Jalch-Leferli struck him on the head with his axe, and cleft it into two pieces; the others seeing this first blow given him, fell on him with their Symitters and cut him to pieces: his blood and brains were dashed on the rich Carpets, which moved fear in many, who were secretly of the Conspiracy with the Old Queen. The Young King himself ignorant of the good intentions of his Servants, at the sight of blood-shed, being yet tender-hearted, cry∣ed and closely embraced the Selihtar who then held him in his arms; but upon the removal of the Corps out of his sight and some smooth words, as that it was a sacrifice of love to him, and the like, his chil∣dish tears were soon wiped away. In this interim the new created Mufti and Kenan Pasha one of the Visiers of the Bench, and Balyzade Efendi, who was formerly Lord Chief Justice, and well affected to the Spahees party, entring the Hazoda or Presence Chamber, perceiving a tumult in His Majesties Presence with different voices and languages, for some cryed in Georgian, others Albanian, Bosnian, Mengrelian, Tur∣kish and Italian, remained in great confusion how to proceed with order and reason in this important affair; For the Mufti and others were of opinion that the sentence against the Old Queen was not rashly to be pronounced, and so the matter might calmly be debated, and if pos∣sible, an expedient might be found for saving her life, and securing the Sultan: But the Rabble impatient of delay, cryed out, defer not the sentence; for otherwise we shall esteem thee as one of her adherents. By this time news was come to the Young Queen, that there had been

a fight in the Streets; who as yet doubtful of the success, and fearing if the Janizaries should gain the advantage, Bectas would revenge the blood of the Old Queen by her death, came covered with a Vail into the Presence Chamber, saying as she passed, Is this the Reverence you owe to the King your Lord? Do you know the place where you are? What would you have of a Woman? Why do you busie your selves in the Kings Affairs? Some presently apprehended that this was only a Plot of the Young Queen to make the World believe she would rather assist the Grand-Mother, than contrive against her, which made the Pages the more importunately to persist with the Mufti for the Fetfa or sentence against her. But one of the Pages suspecting that this Woman so veil∣ed, might be the old Queen her self, cryed out, This is she you seek for; she is in your hands, take your Revenge upon her: at which some bestirring themselves to seize her, she ran to the feet of her Son, and laying hold on him, cried out, No, no, I am not the Grand∣Mother, I am the Mother of this His Majesty; and wiping the tears from the eyes of her Son with her handkerchief, made signs to keep back, which restrained the forwardness of some who pressed to lay vi∣olent hands upon her. The Mufti, who observed the carriage of the Rout, and their earnest desires which could not be resisted, feared, if he gave not his concurrence, he himself should be killed, and the rather because he overheard the old Kenan Pasha discourse with the Visier, to the like effect. So that after some pause and Consultation with the other chief Ministers, it was resolved to supplicate His Majesty for his consent; which was done in these words; Sir, The will of God is, that you consign your Grand-Mother into the hands of Justice, if you would have these Mutinies appeased; a little mischief is better than a great one; there is no o∣ther Remedy; God willing, the end shall be prosperous. Pen and Ink being brought, the Mufti wrote the sentence, and the Grand Signior sub∣scribed it, which was that the Old Queen should be strangled, but nei∣ther cut with sword, nor bruised with blows. The writing was deli∣vered into the hands of one of the Chamberlains, to whom by word of mouth it was ordered that they should carry the Queen out by Cushana (or the Gate of the Birds) so as she might not die in sight or hearing of the Grand Signior. The Ichoglans advancing the Royal Command on high with their hands, went out of the Presence with a great shout, crying, Allah, Allah, to the door of the Womens Lodgings, where they met some Black Eunuchs keeping Guard, who upon the sight of the Imperial Firme, and the command of Solyman Aga, gave them ad∣mittance, upon condition that twenty persons only should enter the Chambers. Those who were best armed went in, and passing through the Chambers of the Virgins, were met by the Queens Buffone with a Pi∣stol in her hand, who demanding what they would have, they an∣swered, the Kings Grand-Mother; she replyed, I am she, and with that offered to discharge her Pistol, but it took fire only in the Pan; with that the Ichoglans laid hold on her, supposing her to be the Queen; but being better advised by Solyman the Kuzlir-Aga, and directed to the Chamber where the Queen was; the door being opened, they per∣ceived the Room to be dark (for the Womens quarters in the Seraglio for the most part are made obscure and close, and Lights are burnt in them day and night) and the old Queen had at the approach of

these Officers extinguished her Candles and got into a great Press, and there covered her self with Quilts and Carpets; but Torches being brought in, they looked all about, and discryed nothing; at which they were enraged against Solyman and would have killed him, saying, that he was the cause the Queen had escaped. But Solyman advising them to search more narrowly, one called Deli Dogangi, got upon the Press, and removing the Cloaths, discovered the Queen, who had thrust her self into a corner; at which she softly thus entreats him, O brave man be not cruel unto me; and promised she would give to every Ichoglan five purses a man (each purse consisting of 500 Dollars) if they would save her life. It is not the time of ransome, Traitor, said he; and taking her by the feet, drew her forth; the Queen rising up put her hand into her Pocket, and threw out handfuls of Zaichins, ho∣ping that whilst they were scrambling for the Gold she might have an opportunity to escape; some of the young men gathered up the Mo∣ney, but the Dogangi, like a Dog of the Game, left her not, and at length though she were heavy, cast her down. The others offered at her life, and particularly an Albanese called Ali Bostangi, who seeing two great Jewels at her ears, immediately catched at them and tore them thence. They were two Diamonds of the bigness of Chestnuts cut angulary, and beneath each Diamond was a Ruby to set it off. Those earings were given her by Sultan Ashmet in the time of her most flourishing Age, and his greatest affection. 'Tis said that such Jewels cannot be found in all the Great Turks Treasure, and were esteemed by the most skilful Jewellers worth a years Revenue of Grand Cairo. This Ali shewed the Jewels to his Comrade, demanding the value of them, and his Counsel whether to conceal or reveal them: but the Comrade prized them at that rate, that the stout young man could not sleep day nor night, being alwayes in fear lest the Jewels should not be kept hid; and apprehending that they became none but the Grand Signior to wear, went and delivered them to Solyman Aga, who in re∣compense thereof, presented him with 16 Zaichins which he accepted, desiring also to be admtited into the Chamber of the Treasury, which was granted him. Others also plucked her, some by the hands, others by the feet, some rifled her Cloaths, for she was furnished throughout with things of great value sewed in her Garments, and especially in her Sable Furs, which contained also certain Magick Spells, by which she conceived she had tyed the tongues of all the Emperours living in her time. The Person who gave me this relation, informed me, that he had seen a certain lock admirably made, and engraved with the Names of Murad and Sultan Ibrahim; it was made by a famous Gindgi, a ve∣ry ignorant Fellow, but a Superstitious, Crafty Liar, by which Arts finding access, in short time he became a chief Favourite of Sultan Ibra∣him, and from a poor Student called by the Turks a Softa, he grew so rich in two years that none in Constantinople was comparable to him.

But to return to the Queen now assaulted by furious young men greedy of riches; she was in a moment despoyled of her Garments; her Furs were torn off into small pieces; and being stript of her Rings, Bracelets, Garters and other things, she was left naked without a Rag to cover her, and dragged by the feet to the Chushana: and being

at the place of her execution, the young Officers found themselves un∣provided of a Cord to strangle her, so that crying out for a Cord, one ran to the Royal Chappel, and thence took the Cord that upheld the great Antiport of the Mosch, which being twined about the Queens neck, the aforesaid Dogangi getting upon her back, pitched her neck with his hands, whilst the others drew the Cord. The Queen though she were by this time besides her senses, and worn out with Age, being above 80 years old and without Teeth: yet she with her Gumms only did bite the thumb of his left hand, which by chance came into her mouth, so hard that he could not deliver himself until with the haft of his Ponyard he struck her on the fore-head near her right eye. There were four that strangled her; but being young Executioners, laboured long to dispatch her, till at length the Queen leaving to struggle, lay stretched out and was supposed to be dead, and so crying (Uldi, Uldi) she is dead, she is dead, ran to carry the News thereof to His Majesty; but being scarce out of sight, the Queen raised her self up, and turned her head about; upon which the Executioners being again called back, the Cord was a second time applyed, and wrung so hard with the haft of a hatchet, that at length she was dispatched, and the News carried to the Royal Chamber. The Black Eunuchs immediately took up the Corps, and in a reverent manner laid it stretched forth in the Royal Mosch; which about 400 of the Queens Slaves encompassing round about with howling and lamentations, tearing the hair from their heads after their barbarous fashion, moved compassion in all the Court.

This work being over, the Visier having given thanks to the Icho∣glans or Pages ••••r their pains, gave order to produce the Banner of Mahomet, which is carefully and reverently kept in the Treasury; which being produced, obliges all of that faith from seven years and upward to arm and come under it. The Banner being brought forth with a rich covering, was advanced with great shouts of Allah, Allah; and carryed by the Ichoglans out of the chief Gate of the Seraglio, where it was shown to the people, who with wonderful admiration and Devotion beheld their glorious Standard; order was also given to proclaim through the whole City the procession of the Heavenly Ban∣ner; for they say that the Angel Gabriel brought it to Mahomet in the time of a great War made against the Christians, as an infallible sign and evidence of Victory. The opinion of this superstitious flag so prevailed, as it brought not only the young and healthful to fight un∣der it, but sick, and old, and Women judged themselves obliged to run to the defence of this holy Ensign. The News hereof, and the death of the Old Queen coming to the old Chamber of the Janizaries; several of them, and those also of the Principal heads began to mur∣mure, that it was now necessary to lay aside their private interests, and have a respect to their faith and their souls; for should they oppose the Heavenly Banner, they should run themselves into the State of Gaurs or Infidels, and become liable to the same censure or punishment which is inflicted upon unbelievers. But in the new Chambers Bectas endeavoured to remove this apprehension from the mind of his Soul∣diers, by large Presents both of Gold and Silver, perswading them to uphold their Fame and Reputation; for that the Grand Signior and

his Mother were Enemies to their name and designs, and resolved to abase or destroy the order of that Militia; and with assurance of Vi¦ctory and encouragement against a people unarmed and undisciplined, animated them to fight; and to make the business more easie, advised them to fire the City in several parts, that so the people might be di∣verted and divided for safety of their own goods and dwellings. But this proposition took not with the Officers and Souldiers, who had many of them Houses and Possessions of their own in Constantino∣ple, but put them into great distractions and divisions in their Coun∣cels. In this pause came an Officer from the Grand Signior (who to venture his life, had the promise of a good reward) with a Command in writing which he threw in amongst them, and galloped away as fast as he could; crying out as he rode, He that comes not under the Ban∣ner of the Prophet is a Pagan, and his Wife divorced. The Writing was taken up and carried to the Presence of the Principal Officers, which being opened and read, was to this purpose; Bectas Aga I have made Pasha of Bosna, Kara-chiaus I have made Captain General of the Sea; Kul-kahya I have made Pasha of Temiswar; and Kara Hassan Ogle I have made Ja••zar Agasi; and I require at sight of these Presents, that every one of you upon pain of death and ruine of his Family, repair to his duty and station. In this Instant came News that the old Chamber of Janizaries had left their station and were run under the Banner without Arms, and had refused Bectas's Money and deserted his Cause, and that the Spahees in great Troops and the Jebegees (who command the Ordnance) approached with Artillery to beat upon their Cham∣bers. The Spahees came thundring in upon the Janizaries in remem∣brance of their past injuries, and had certainly cut them off, had not the Visier with his Sword in his hand by good and bad words restrain∣ed them, and appeased their animosity. The Janizaries of the new Chamber proclaimed their new Commander, and visited him with their usual form of Congratulation, running afterwards confusedly under the Banner. Kara-Hassan the new elected Aga of the Janizaries, went to the Seraglio to thank the Grand Signior for the honour done him, and with ten of his Principal Friends was admitted to the Grand Signiors Presence; who humbly kissing the ground, received the accustomed vests, and with some admonitions was fairly dismissed, and ordered to reduce his Janizaries to better obedience. By this time Bectas, Kul∣kahya, and Kara Chiaus with some of their Favourites remained wholly abandoned, looking one upon the other, full of complaints and railings each at other for the miscarriage of the action.

But since it was not now time to condole but to save their lives, eve∣ry one made to his house. First Bectas fled to his home, where having ordered his Affairs, he cloathed himself in the Albanian fashion, and escaped to the house of a poor man formerly his Friend and Confident; but the next day being discovered by a youth, was taken, and being set on a Mule, was with the scorn and derision of the people conducted to the Grand Signiors Seraglio and there strangled. This person was held in so much detestation by the common people, that after his death the Cooks and inferiour sort of Servants run Spits and Pitch-forks through his body; and plucking the hairs out of his beard, sent them for Presents to their acquaintance through all Constantinople, saying,

These are the hairs of that Traitor, who gloryed, that before he would lose his Head, there should be raised a Mountain of heads as high as S^ta Sophia. But Kulkahya being come to his house, filled his Port∣mantles with Gold and Jewels, and accompanied with sixty horse, re∣solved to fly to the Mountains of Albania, places so inaccessible, that they have never yielded to the Turkish yoke: but finding himself hot∣ly pursued in his journey, and that it was impossible to escape with so great a number, freely distributed a great part of his Gold upon his re∣tinue, and thanking them for their affection and good intentions, dis∣missed them all excepting one Servant, with whom he journyed with four laden horses with Gold, Jewels and other riches; and perceiving that this also was too great an incumbrance, they buryed a Treasure to the value of 600. thousand Dollars in the Country as they travel∣led; which was afterwards found out by certain Shepherds, who disagreeing about the division thereof, the matter came to be known to the Judge of that Country, who seized upon it all and sent it to the Grand Signiors Treasury. But Kulkahya travelling still farther with his single Page, came to a Town, where wanting bread, and forced for the payment of it to exchange Gold, fell into a suspicion of being one of those Rebels lately escaped from Constantinople; which news being brought to a Captain of horse that commanded the place, he came im∣mediately with some men to take him; but Kulkahya resolving not to fall into their hands alive, resisted them until he was killed by a Mus∣ket-shot, and so his head being severed from his body was sent to the Grand Signior. Kara Chiaus in this interim being with 200 men retired into his Garden, was assaulted by an Aga of the Spahees (called Par∣maksis) with 500 men; but that this enterprise might be acquired with little blood, a Person was sent secretly to advise that party, that if they opposed the Royal Command, they should every one be put to death; at which the people fled and dispersed themselves. At that in∣stant came in this Aga and took him, and yet comforted him with the clemency and mercy of the Grand Signior, promising also himself to intercede for him. And so bringing him to the Seraglio by the Garden gate, His Majesty had notice of it, and looking out of the Window and seeing him upon his knees begging pardon, the Grand Signior gave a sign to the Executioner to strangle him, which was accordingly per∣formed. The new Janizar Aga who knew all the Officers formerly affected to the Rebellious party, for several nights caused some or other of them to be strangled, to the number of 38 persons, which struck such a terrour into the Janizaries, that for a long time after they kept themselves within the bounds of humility and obedience. And thus concluded this Tragedy, remarkable as well for the dispatch as for the action it self, being but the work of fourteen hours. And in this manner it is apparent, how the Lessons of obedience which are so carefully taught, and instilled into the minds of all those who serve and depend upon the Grand Signior are corrupted; and by the Pride, Discord and Faction of the Governours seduced from their natural Principles.

By the premisses we may consider more generally, that it hath always been the Misfortune of unlimited powers to be subject to dangers and violence, arising from the discontents and unconstancy of the Soul∣diery:

for they coming to be sensible of their own strength, and knowing that the power of the Emperour is but fortified with their hands and heart, like unruly beasts throw their Riders, and shew that the Principles of obedience taught them, are easily corrupted and defa∣ced by evil perswasions, or sedition in a Commander or common Soul∣dier. Thus we see in the time of the latter Roman Emperours, who usurped a power unknown in the dayes of the pure and happy constitu∣tion of that Common-wealth, and governed all by the Sword and their own lusts; few of them ended their dayes fortunately, or died in their beds and peace, without becoming a Sacrifice to the same power that first proclaimed them Emperours. And though the Mutinies and Re∣bellions in the Turkish Militia can hardly operate any durable alterati∣ons in the State (as we shall more at large hereafter discourse) yet doubtless the Tyranny in the Ottoman Emperours, had provoked the people long since to have proved the benefit of another Race, but that there is a strange kind of Devotion and Religion in their minds as to the Ottoman bloud, which having been the original of their Empire and greatness, will ever be maintained in high reverence and honour. Nor is it likely that the fair Speeches and allurements of a Rebellious slave will ever prevail to perswade this people from their Religion to this Prince, or that their arms can ever be prosperous under the Ensign and Conduct of an Usurper. And may all Christians learn this Lesson from the Turks, and adde this principle to the Fundamentals of their Religi∣on, as well as to their Laws. None can more experimentally preach this Doctrine to the World than England, who no sooner threw off her Obedience and Religion to her Prince, but (as if that vertue had been the only bar to all other Enormities and Sins) she was deprived of all other Ecclesiastical and Civil Rights, and in all her capacities and relations deflowred and prophaned by impious and unhallowed hands.

And thus having given a Relation of the Turks Religion and first Prin∣ciples in order to their obedience to their Prince, let us proceed a little farther into the penetralia of the Seraglio, and there see what farther care is taken of the Youth, in all points of their Education, to fit and prepare them for the management and performance of the highest and weightiest Offices of State; which I judge to be one of the chiefest of the Turkish Polities, and is certainly an extraordinary support and secu∣rity of the Empire.

Notes

• * 1.1

  A shout used by the Turks when they fight.