The annals and history of Cornelius Tacitus his account of the antient Germans, and the life of Agricola / made English by several hands ; with the political reflecions and historical notes of Monsieur Amelot De La Houffay and the learned Sir Henry Savile.

A DISCOURSE OF THE Situation, Customs and People OF GERMANY.

By CAIUS CORNELIUS TACITUS.

ALL Germany is separated from the Gauls, the Rhaetians, and Panno••••ans, by the Rivers Rhine and the Danube; from the Sarmatians and Da∣cians by a mutual Dread of Invading each other, or impassable high Mountains: The rest of it the Sea sur∣rounds, containing spacious Bays and vast Islands; and 'tis but of late that some Nations and Kings have come to our Knowledge, which the War discover'd.

The Rhine rises from an inaccessible and steep Pick of the Rhoetian Alps, with a small bowing inclining to the West, intermixes with the Northern Ocean. The Danube, gushing out from the easie and gently-rising top of the

Mountain Abnoba, passes through many Countries, till it discharges itself in six Branches into the Pontic Sea; the seventh is swallow'd up in the Marshes.

I should fancy the Germans to be Natives, and not all intermix'd by the Arrival and Entertainments of other Nations; because those who formerly transplanted them∣selves were not convey'd by Land, but by Shipping; and moreover, the immense and opposite Ocean, as I may call it, is touch'd upon with few Ships from our World; for, who, besides the Danger of a rough and unknown Sea, abandoning Asia, Africa, or Italy, would inhabit Germany, a shapeless Land, the Climate unplea∣sant, melancholy to the View, and uncultivated, un∣less his own Country?

They celebrate in ancient Poesie, (which is the only Method of the Records and Annals amongst them) That the God Tuisto, sprung from the Earth, and his Son Man∣nus, were the Original and Founders of that Nation. To Mannus they ascribe three Sons, from whose names those bordering upon the Ocean are stil'd, Ingaevones; those of the Midland, Herminones; the rest, Istaevones. But some taking License from Antiquity, affirm, That more are descended from that God, and, that there are more Denominations of that Kingdom, the Marsi, Gambrivi, Suevi, Vandali; and, that these are the true and an∣cient Names; but, that the word Germany is new, and lately given, because those who first pass'd the Rhine and expell'd the G••••ls, were but now term'd Tungri, and then Germans: So that the Name of a Party, not of a whole Country, by degrees prevail'd, that all at first, for fear of the Conqueror, presently after having in∣vented a Name, were from themselves call'd Germans.

They report, That Hercules had been amongst them, and that he was the most valiant of all Men. They advance singing into the Battel. The Verses they call Barditus, which in rehearsing ••••••••ame their Courage, and by that very Tune they foretell the Event of the approaching Engagement.

They terrifie and are terrified, according to the noise the Army makes: Nor does it appear so much a Con∣sort of the Voice, as of their Valour: The roughness of the Sound is the most affected, and a confus'd Mur∣mur, by putting their Shields to their Mouths, by which the Voice swells deeper and fuller from the Reper∣cussion.

Some conjecture, that Vlysses, in his long and fabulous Wandrings was carried into this Sea; that he landed in Germany, and that As••iburgium, which is situated on on the Banks of the Rhine, and at this day inhabited, was founded by him, and nam'd 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉; and more∣over, That an Altar, consecrated to Vlysses, with the Name of his Father Laertes, was formerly found in that place, and that there are some Monuments and Tumulists yet extant, inscrib'd with Greek Characters, in the Con••ines of Germany and Rhoetia: Which I'm in∣clin'd neither by Arguments to confirm or confute; let every Man, as he pleases, either credit or discredit.

I assent to their Opinions, who observe, that the People of Germany are tinctur'd with no foreign Mar∣riages, but continue a peculiar and unmix'd Nation, only like themselves, from whence the shape of their Bodies, altho' in so great a number, has the same re∣semblance; their Eyes blue and fierce, their Hair yel∣low, and only powerful upon an Assault. They're impatient of Work and Labour, can in no wise under∣go Thirst and Heat; Cold, and want of Provisions, they are accustomed to, from the Climate and Soil.

The Land, altho' it sometimes varies in Form, for the generality, in rough with Woods, or stinks with Marshes; as far as it looks to France more humid, to∣wards Noricum and Pannonia more windy. It is indif∣ferently fertile, but improper for Fruit-trees; abounds in Cattle, but, for the most part, stock'd and runtish; nor are their Herds beautifully headed: They are de∣lighted with their Numbers, and those are the only

and most acceptable Riches. I very much doubt whe∣ther the propitious or angry Gods have denied them Silver and Gold; nor would I a••••irm, that no Vein of Germany produces Silver and Gold; for, who has made the Tryal? They are not so much as affected by the Propriety and Use of them; yet there is to be seen amongst them Silver Vessels, presented to their Am∣bassadors and Princes, but no more esteem'd than those which are made of Clay, although their Neighbours, for the Advantage of Commerce, set a Value upon Gold and Silver, and own and make choice of some Coins of our Mony; the Inland People, without trick∣ing, and as formerly, exchange their Commodities. They approve most of Old Mony, and what has been long known, especially the Serrati and Bigati. They prefer Silver before Gold; not out of any Love to it, but because the Pieces of Silver are more use∣ful to those who buy cheap Wares.

They have no great Plenty of Iron, as may be in••er'd from the make of their Darts. Few use Swords or large Launces; they carry Spears, or, according to their own expression, Fram••as; the Iron narrow and short, but so pointed and adapted for use, that with the same Wea∣pon, as they see occasion, they fight at hand, or at a distance; and the Horseman is very well satisfied with a Shield and a Framea. The Foot cast Darts, and eve∣ry one of them a considerable number, and throw them a prodigious way, and are either naked, or only covered with a short Iacket. They don't value them∣selves upon their Furniture: Their Shields are only distinguished by select Colours: Few have Coats of Male; scarce any of them have either Headpiece or Helmet. Their Horses are neither remarkable for their Shape or Speed, nor are they taught the Manage according to our manner; they are made dexterous at their Career, or in single Wheeling, so clos'd in the Ring, that all stand even. Weighing all things, their

chiefest Strength is in their Foot, and therefore they fight intermix••d, the Swiftness of the Foot suiting and agreeing in the Engagement of the Horse, who, pick∣ed out of all their Youth, they place in the Front of the Army; and the Number is limited, a Hundred out of every Town, for so they're called amongst themselves; and that which was at first but a Number has now gained a Name and a Reputation. The Ar∣my's drawn up in form of a Wedge; they look upon it to give ground when press'd, so they rally again, to be more of Conduct than Fear. Their Bodies they carry off in doubtful Battels: It's the greatest Scan∣dal to relinquish their Shield; neither is it lawful for those who have forfeited their Honour, either to be present in their Religious Duties, or to go to Council; and many, who survive the Wars, put an end to the Disgrace by the Halter.

They make choice of their Kings for their Noble Ex∣traction, their Commanders for their Courage: nor have their Kings a boundless and unlimited Power. Their Captains they prefer more for Example than Command, if active, if of Presence of Mind, and behave themselves well at the head of the Army; but it's not permitted to reprimand, nor put in Chains, nor indeed chastise, to any but to the Priests; not as if it were for a Punishment, or by Orders of the Captain, but as if their God command∣ed it, who they believe assisting in their Engagements.

They carry the E••••ig••es, and certain Banners taken down from the Groves, into the Battel: And what is the chief Incitement to their Courage, is, not Chance, nor a fortuitous Embodying, which composes the Squa∣dron or pointed Battel, but their own Family and nearest Relations; and hard by ar•• their Children, from whence the Lamentations of their Women, and Cries of their Infants, may be heard; these are the most sacred Witnesses, and the highest Applauders of every Man's Bravery. To their Mothers and Wives

they declare their Hurts; nor are they afraid to suck or number their Wounds: They carry Provisions to, and animate them when they're fighting. It's record∣ed, That certain Troops beginning to stagger, and giving Ground, were made to rally again by the Wo∣men, by their Importunities, the exposing of their own Breasts, and demonstrating their approaching Captivity, which, upon the account of their Women, they bear with much more reluctancy; so the Affecti∣ons of those Cities are the most effectually secur'd, to whom, amongst their Hostages, the Noblest Virgins are committed. Moreover, they suppose there's some∣thing sacred in them, and that they can foretell Events; neither do they reject their Counsel, or neglect to fol∣low their Advice.

We have seen Velleda, under the divine Vespasian, long ador'd among many as a Deity: Yet also, in time past, they reverenc'd Aurinia and divers others, not with Flattery, nor as if they would make them Godesses. They adore Mercury most of all their Gods, to whom, upon so∣lemn Days, they judge it justi••iable to offer up Human Sacrifices. Hercules and Mars they pacifie with lawful Creatures. Part of the Suevians also sacrifice to Isis; but I'm in the dark what was the Cause and Original of this strange Sacrifice, unless her Image, fashion'd in the shape of a Galley, instructs us, that their Religion was adventitious. They're of an Opinion, from the Magnitude of the Celestial Bodies, that the Gods can∣not be confin'd within Walls, or be represented in any Human Shape. They consecrate Woods and Groves, and call that Privacy, from the Names of their Gods, which only in their Worship they behold. Divinati∣ons by Birds, and Chances, they most of all others su∣perstitiously observe.

The Custom in managing their Lots is plain and inartificial. A Branch pulled from a Fruit-bearing Tree they cut into Slips, and at a venture,

and casually, scatter them, being distinguish'd by some Marks upon a white Vestment; if it be a publick Concern, the Priest of the City; but if private, the Father of the Family praying to the Gods; and look∣ing up to Heaven thrice, takes up every one apart, and being held up, gives an Interpretation, according to the former Mark; if they discourage, there's no more consulting about the Affair that day; but if favour∣able; yet the Credit of the Success is further requi∣red: And this also is more notable, they argue upon the Notes and Flying of Birds. Its peculiar to that Nation, to experiment the Presages, and Admoniti∣ons of their Horses: They are publickly fed in those Woods and Groves, white and polluted by no Human Labour, who being put in the Sacred Chariot, the Priest, or King, or the Governour of the City attends upon 'em, observing their Neighings and Whynnyings: Nor is there greater Credit given to any Divination; not only amongst the Plebeians, but the amongst the Nobility and Priesthood; for they believe themselves to be the Attendants, and these the Con••idents of the Gods.

There is also another Observation of their Sooth-saying, whereby they explore the Events of their greatest Battles: They engage a Captive, that some how or other has been surpriz'd, of that Nation, with whom they're at War, with a pick'd Man of their own, both arm'd after their Country Fashion; and who gains the Victory, its look'd upon as ominous to the other side. Of little Affairs, the Princes; of great∣er, all in general advise: So, notwithstanding, that those things, whose Arbitration is in the Power of the Populace, are fully canvass'd amongst the Princes.

They assemble on certain Days, either upon a New or Full Moon, unless any thing accidental, or unexpected, falls out; for in transacting Business, they believe this juncture of time the most auspicious: Neither do they reckon by Days, as we do, but by Nights; so they make

their Agreements; so by a common Consent their Ap∣pointments: The Night here seems to guide the Day. This Error proceeds from the Liberty they take, be∣cause they do not meet all at once, or upon Command; both the second and third Day is wasted by the Delay of their convening: They sit down arm'd, if the Com∣pany approves on't. Silence is commanded by the Priests, in whom there is lodg'd then the Coercive Power: By and by the King or Prince, according to every one's Age, their Quality, Reputation gain'd in the Wars, or Talent in Rhetorick, are heard, more by the Authority of Perswading, than the Power of Commanding; if the Opinion displeases, its rejected by a Murmuring; if it pleases, they clash their Wea∣pons: Its the most honourable Manner of Assent, to applaud it with their Arms. It's also lawful to accuse, and arraign before the Council. The Difference of the Punishment, is from the Nature of the Crimes; Traytors and Revolters they hang on Trees; the Sloathful, Timerous, and Sodomitical they drown in Mire and Marshes, throwing Hurdles upon them. The Diversity of the Punishment respects this, that Vil∣lanies, when punish'd, ought to be expos'd, Scandals conceal'd: But for lesser Faults, being convicted, for the Manner of their Penalty, they are fined such a num∣ber of Horses and Cattle; part of the Mulct goes to the King or City, part to him, who is injur'd, or di∣stributed amongst his Relations: Persons of the best Quality are also elected with those Councils, who do Iustice to the Towns and Villages: A hundred Asso∣ciates are assistant to every one of them, out of the Commonalty; together with their Advice and Autho∣rity. They act nothing of private or publick Business unarm'd; but its not the Custom for any one to go arm'd, till the City has adjudg'd him qualified: Then in the Council-Chamber, some one of the greatest Dig∣nity, or his Father, or his Relation, equips him with

a Buckl••r and Sword. This amongst them is their Gown, this is the first Honour of their Youth; but before this they seem only part of the Family, but now of the Commonwealth. A noble Extraction, or the great Deserts of the Fathers, recommend these young Men to the Favour of their Prince. They associate with others that are more robust, and long since ap∣prov'd: Neither do they blush to be seen amongst their Companions; although he has his Post in the Re∣tinue at his Discretion, whom they follow. There's a great Emulation amongst them, who shall be chief Fa∣vourite to their Prince; and amongst the Princes, who shall have the most, and the bravest Followers. This is their Grandeur, these their Forces, to be encom∣pass'd with a great Guard of select Youth, their Ho∣nour in Peace, and their Defence in War. It gives a Name, and a Reputation to every one, not only in his own Country, but also amongst their Neighbouring Princes, if the Associates excel in Number and Cou∣rage. They're also apply'd to in Embassies, and court∣ed by Presents; and for the most part, by their very Fame, dispatch their Wars. When they come into the Field of Battle, its dishonourable to the Prince to be overcome in Bravery; and for his Retinue too not to equalize the Courage of their Prince: But above all things, its infamous, and during Life reproachful, to flie, and survive their General slain. Their principal Oath is to defend and protect him, and attribute all their valiant Actions, to his Conduct and Glory▪ The Princes fight for Victory, their Adherents for their Princes.

If the City, in which they were born, grows stiff and unactive, by a long Peace and Repose, most of the young Noblemen go Voluntiers into those Na∣tions, which are then engag'd in War; because, also Quiet is ungrateful to that Nation, and with the more Facility they grow Famous amongst dubious Enter∣prizes;

nor can they maintain their great Attendance, unless by Violence and War. They obtain from the Liberality of their Prince such a War-Horse, and such a bloody conquering Sword.

As to Banquets, although homely, yet a plentiful Ta∣ble they allow instead of a Salary. The Supply of their Munificence proceeds from War and Rapine.

Nor can you so easily perswade them to Till the Ground, and wait for a good Year, as to challenge the Enemy, and receive Wounds; for it looks lazy and dispirited, to acquire that by hard Labour, which may be compass'd by Blood. When they have no War, they pass not their time so much in Hunting, as Idle∣ness, being much addicted to Sleep and Gluttony: The most Valiant and Warlike doing nothing at all, com∣mitting the Care of their House, Gods, and Fields, to their Women and Children, and to the most in••irm of the Family. They have a wonderful Contrariety in their Nature; for those Persons, who take such de∣light in Idleness, have an aversion to Quiet.

Its the Custom in those Cities, for every Man freely to bestow on their Princes, either of their Herds or Fruits, which is taken for a Favour, and besides sup∣plies their Necessities. They take great Delight in the Presents of Neighbouring Nations, which are not only sent from particular Persons, but from the Pub∣lick; as choice Horses, large Armours, Trappings and Chains: And we have been inform'd, they now re∣ceive Money. Its very well known, that Cities ar•• not inhabited by the Germans; nor do they indeed, suffer Houses to be join'd together. They plant them∣selves separately and divided, as the Spring, Field, or Wood, pleases them best. They found their Villages not according to our Manner, with connex'd and con∣tiguous Buildings: Every one leaves a Space about his House, either as a Remedy against any Accident of Fire, or from their Unskilfulness in Building. They

use no Tyles or Mortar amongst them; but make use of in all things a shapeless Stuff, without either Form or Delight: Some Places they curiously parget with an Earth, so pure and shining, that it imitates a Picture, or the first Draught of Colours. They are wont to open Subterranean Caves, and those they cover with a great Quantity of Dung, which serves as a Refuge in Winter, and a Granary; and when the Enemy ad∣vances, he ravages the open Country▪ But those things which are conceal'd, or lie hid under Ground, they are either ignorant of, or for that Reason are deceiv'd, because they are to be search'd for.

Their Cloathing is a loose Coat, join'd together with a Button; but for want of that, with a Thorn: Being uncover'd as to any thing else, they lie basking whole Days upon the Hearth by the Fire. The most wealthy are distinguish'd by a Garment, not flowing like the Sarmathians and Parthians, but close, and re∣presenting every Ioint: They wear also the Skins of wild Beasts; those next the Sea-side with less Curiosity; but those that are higher in the Country are more nice, as having no other Attire by Commerce. They make choice of the Beasts, and having taken off their Hides, spot them with the Skins of those Monsters, which the outermost Ocean, and the unknown Sea produces. Nor have the Women any other Habit than the Men, unless that the Women are more fre∣quently cloath'd in Linnen Garments, and those they checquer with Purple, and part of the upper Dress is not made into Sleeves; their Arms are naked, and their Bosom lies bare.

However, their Marriages there are very strict; neither is there any part of their Customs that's more commendable; for they are almost the only People of the Barbarians, that are contented with one Wife a∣piece, except a very few, who not for Lasciviousness, but out of State are surrounded with many Wives.

The Wife does not profer a Dowry to the Husband, but the Husband to the Wife: The Parents and Rela∣tions are by, and approve of the Presents; Presents not contriv'd for Womanish Toys, nor by which the New-married Bride may be adorn'd, but Oxen, a Horse bridled, a Shield with a Partisan, and Sword: Upon these Terms the Wife is receiv'd; and she in her Turn brings some Arms to her Husband. This is the greatest Tye, these the Sacred Arcana's, these they deem the Conjugal Deities; and lest the Woman shou'd think herself exempted from the Thoughts of Bravery, and the Hazards of War, she's reminded from the beginning of the solemniz'd Mar∣riage, that she's now become a Partner of his Toyls and Dangers, and that she will run the same Risque in Peace and War, as he himself does: This the yoak'd Oxen, this the equip'd Horse, this the presented Arms declare; so they must live, so they must die. Those Things which she receives, she restores uninjur'd to her Children; what's put into the Daughter-in-Laws Cu∣stody, they return to their Nephews. They therefore behave themselves with the strictest Modesty, being debauch'd with no alluring Objects, with no Provoca∣tives in Banqueting.

The Men, as well as the Women, are equally igno∣rant of the Mysteries of Learning.

In so populous a Nation, Adultery is rarely com∣mitted; for which there's a present Punishment, that's left to the Discretion of the Husbands. The Husband having cut off her Hair, turns her out of his House na∣ked, before her Relations, and whips her through the whole Village. There's no Pardon for violated Cha∣stity, neither can her Beauty, Age, nor Wealth, re∣commend her to another Husband. No one there makes sport with Vices, nor is the Age said to corrupt, or be corrupted. Those Cities do still much more re∣putably, in which Virgins only marry, and where it's

transacted with the Hopes and Desire of being but once a Wife; so they receive one Husband, as they do one Body, and one Life; nor is there a Thought beyond that, nor a larger Desire; not as if it were the Hus∣band, but as the Marriage-State that they affect.

It's look'd upon as the highest Enormity, to stint the Number of Children, or to kill any of their Kindred. Their good Morals avail more there, than in other places good Laws. In every House going naked and dirty, they shoot out into those vast Limbs, and those great Bodies we so much wonder at. Every Mother gives suck to her own Child; neither are they com∣mitted to the Care of Maids, and Nurses.

The Masters, and Servants, are not to be distin∣guish'd by the Niceties of Education; they live amongst the same Cattle, on the same Ground, 'till Age distin∣guishes the Free-born, and their Courage signalizes them.

The Amours of the young Men begin late; for which Reason their Youth is not impair'd: Nor are the Maids too soon put upon Marriage; their Age is the same, their Stature alike. Those that are equally match'd, and strenuous, Inter-marry, and the Chil∣dren resemble the Vigour of their Parents.

There is the same Respect paid to the Sisters Sons, by the Uncle, by the Mother's-side, as by the Father: Some think this Tye of Blood is more sacred and strict; and in receiving of Hostages, they rather re∣quire it; as if they kept the Mind the more confirm'd, and the Family the less reserv'd.

The Heirs and Successors to every Man, are his own Children, and therefore they make no Will: If he has none, the next Relations, as the Brothers, Uncles, by the Father's, or Mother's-side, take possession; and his Age is esteem'd proportionate to the Number of his Kindred and Affinity. Nor are they respected who are without Issue. They are obliged to espouse, as

well the Enmities, either of a Father, or Relation, as their Friendships; neither do they continue implaca∣ble: For Homicide is atton'd for at a certain Number of Beasts and Cattle, and the whole Family receives Satisfaction advantagious to the Publick, because Feuds are pernicious to Liberty.

Not any Nation is so profuse in Entertainments and Hospitality: It's held the highest Crime, to turn any one out of Doors; every one treats answerable to his Fortune. When the Provisions are all spent, he which last entertained, is a Guide and Companion of his Guest, and tho' uninvited, they go to the next House; nor is it ill taken. They are receiv'd with the same Civility, no one distinguishes the known and unknown, as far as relates to the Right of Hospitality. It's the Custom for him that's going away, to give, if any thing's requir'd: And on the other hand, there's the same Freedom in demanding. They take delight in being presented; nor do they charge to Account what's given, or think themselves oblig'd by what's receiv'd. The Entertainment of their Guests is af∣fable.

As soon as they rise from Sleep, which, for the most part, spins out the Day, they are wash'd oftentimes in warm Water, the Winter there lasting long; having done washing, they go to Dinner: Their Seats are at a distance, and every one has a Table to himself; they go arm'd alike to their Business and Feasts. It's rec∣kon'd no Disgrace, to hold out a Day and Night in Drinking. Those frequent Broils amongst those who are addicted to Wine, are seldom past over with ill Language, but oftner by Death and Wounds: But they consult of reconciling Enemies, and contracting Marriages, chusing their Princes, and of Peace and War, for the most part, in their Banquets: As if at no time, the Mind was more open to unbiass'd Thoughts, or warm'd to greater Enterprizes. This Nation being

neither crafty, nor cunning, by reason of the Priviledge of the place, discovers the hitherto unreveal'd Secrets of the Heart; therefore, the Mind of all being naked and detected, the next Day it's spoken to anew, the Reason of both times being weigh'd. They debate when they know not how to dissemble, resolve when they know not how to err.

Ale is their Drink: Those who are next the Sea-Coast, traffick for Wine. Their Diet is simple, wild Apples, fresh Meat, or Curds; without making Prepa∣rations, without Dainties, they expect Hunger. A∣gainst Thirst there's not the same Temperance; if thou wilt indulge their Drunkenness, by furnishing them with as much as they covet, they'll as easily be con∣quer'd by Wine, as by Arms.

The Manner of their Shows is one and the same, in all their Meetings; naked young Men, to whom it's a Diversion, throw themselves amongst Swords, and deadly Weapons: Frequent Exercise begets Experi∣ence, Experience Gracefulness; but this notwithstand∣ing is not done for Profit, or Reward; tho' the Prize of this daring Wantonness, is the Pleasure of those which behold it. Dice (which you'd wonder at) the soberest Persons play at, amongst their weighty Affairs, and with that rashness of winning or losing, that when all's gone, they set Body and Liberty upon the last Throw; he that loses, enters into a voluntary Vassa∣lage, altho' younger and more robust, suffers himself to be bound and sold. Obstinacy in this ill Cause, they stile Faith. Slaves of this Condition, they deliver up, by the way of Commerce, that they may absolve them∣selves from the Reproach of the Victory. They use the rest of their Servants not after our manner, by as∣signing them their Offices in the Family; every Man governs his own House, and domestick Affairs. The Master enjoyns the Payment of a Proportion of Corn, or Cattle, or Cloathing, as to his Farmer, and so far

the Slave complies. The other Offices of the House, the Wife and Children manage. It's very uncommon to beat a Slave, or to punish him with Fetters, and hard Labour. They are wont to kill them, not by Disci∣pline, and Severity, but out of Passion and Anger, as they wou'd an Enemy, and that without Impunity. The Freed-men are not much above their Slaves, sel∣dom doing any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Importance in the House, ne∣ver in the Cities, ••••••epting in those Nations which are under Subjection; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 there they have the Ascendent, both over the Free-〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the Nobles too. A∣mongst other Nations, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 inequality of Freed-men, is an Argument of Liber••••

They are Strangers to Usury, and the making Ad∣vantages by Interest, and therefore it's more observ'd, than if it had been prohibited.

The Fields, according to the Number of the Tillers, are cultivated by Turns; which they divide amongst themselves, according to the Credit of the Persons: The largeness of the Plains, makes the Division less difficult. The plough'd Lands they change annually, and let the Ground lie fallow; neither do they endea∣vour, by their Labour, for an Improvement, or En∣largement of their Soil; so that they may plant Or∣chards, enclose Meadows, and water their Gardens; Corn only they expect from the Ground. Whereup∣on, they don't divide the Year into so many Parts: Winter, and Spring, and Summer, have their Names and Significations: The Name and Benefit of Autumn they are alike ignorant of.

They are not ambitious of pompous Funerals; this only is observ'd, that the Bodies of Illustrious Persons are burnt with particular sorts of Wood. They heap not up the Pile with Garments, nor Odors; his own peculiar Arms, and the Horse of some of them is also superadded, to the Fire. Their Tombs are rais'd with Turf. They despise the lofty and costly Magnificence

of Monuments, as only burthensome to the Dead. La∣mentations, and Tears, they refrain quickly; Grief, and Sorrow, slowly. It's commendable in Women to lament, in Men not to forget.

These Things we have been inform'd, have been al∣low'd of by all, of the Origin and Customs of the Germans: Now I'll relate the Institutions of particular Nations, and their Ceremonies how 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they differ, and what People have removed out of ••••rmany into Gaul.

The Divine Iulius, the best 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Authors, affirms, That formerly the Condition of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gauls has been much more powerful: And ther••••re its credible, that the Gauls also pass'd into Germany: For how little cou'd a River hinder it, but that as every Nation grew more potent, they should possess and exchange their, as yet, promiscuous Habitations, and undivided Domini∣ons? Therefore the Helvetians kept their Ground, between the Hercynian Forest, and the Rivers Rhine, and Maenus; the Boii the furthermost parts; and both Nations were Gallican.

The Name of the Boiemi is yet extant, and signifies the ancient Remembrance of the Place, altho' the In∣habitants are chang'd: But whether the Aravisci re∣mov'd from the German Nation into Pannonia, from the Orsi, or the Orsi from the Aravisci into Germany, where∣as hitherto they use the same Language, Customs, and Manners, is uncertain; because in Times past, from the like Scarcity and Liberty, the same Convenience, and Inconvenience accru'd to those who inhabited the Banks on both sides.

The Treveri, and Nervii, are over and above ambi∣tious of affecting a German Genealogy; as if by this Honour of Blood, they were distinguish'd from the Re∣semblance, and Sluggishness of the Gauls. Undoubtedly the People of Germany were the Vangiones, Treboci, Ne∣m••tes, who inhabited the Bank of the Rhine. The Vbi

also, altho' they deserv'd to be a Roman Colony, are asham'd of their Original; and who more willingly wou'd be call'd Agrippinenses, from the Name of their Founder, having formerly pass'd over, and out of Ex∣perience of their Fidelity, were planted upon the Bank of the Rhine, that they should expel their Ene∣mies, not that they themselves should be guarded.

The Batavians, of all these Nations, are the most couragious: They inhabit not much of the Bank, but an Island of the River Rhine, formerly the Nation of the Catti, who passed over into those Habitations, from a domestick Sedition, in which they were to be made a part of the Roman Empire. The Honour re∣mains, and a Mark of the ancient Alliance; for nei∣ther are they disgrac'd by Tribute, nor does the Re∣ceiver of the publick Revenues oppress them. They are exempted from Taxes and Contributions, and on∣ly set apart for the Service of the War, as Darts and Arms are reserv'd for Battle.

The Nation of the Mattiaci are also under the same Obedience; for the Greatness of the People of Rome was extended beyond the Rhine, and their Majesty be∣yond the ancient Consines of the Empire. As to the Frontiers of their Country, and Habitations, they live upon the Bank: In Humor and Inclination they are joyn'd with us: As to other things, they are like the Batavians; but that, as yet, by reason of the Soil of their Country, and Air, they are much braver. I shall not reckon them amongst the People of Germany, altho' they have taken up their Abode beyond the Rhine, and the Da••••be, who cultivate those Fields, which pay Tenths.

The most profligate of the Gauls, and who are grown bold by Want, possess the Land of a doubtful Title. Now their Territories being enlarg'd and Forts advanc'd, they are esteem'd the Border of the Empire, and part of a Province. Beyond these the Ca••ti are seated whose

Bounds begin from the Hercynian Forest; but not in such spacious and fenny Places, as the rest of the Cities, into which Germany expatiates itself. Here the Hills seem to continue, but grow thin by degrees; and the Her∣cynian Forest follows, and together, leaves the Catti.

The Bodies of that Nation are hardned, their Limbs compact, their Countenances threatning, and their Courage greater. They have as much Reason and Policy as is to be found amongst the Germans. They prefer choice Men, hearken to their Officers, know their Ranks, and make the best of Opportunities, de∣lay their Resentments, order the Day according to their several Occasions, intrench by Night, reckon Fortune dubious, but Virtue unerring; and what is more uncommon, unless it's to be allow'd from the Reason of their Discipline, To repose more Confidence in their General, than their Army. All their Strength lies in the Foot, whom, besides their Arms, they load with Iron Tools, and Provisions: You may see others go to Battle, but the Catti to War. They seldom make Incursions, or engage accidentally. It's peculi∣ar to the Horse, suddenly to gain the Victory, or sud∣denly Retreat: Expedition borders upon Fear, but Delay comes nearer to Constancy; and the particular Courage of every one, seldom try'd by the rest of the Germans, is grown to an unanimous Consent amongst the Catti, that as soon as they attain to the Years of Maturity, to let their Hair and Beard grow long; nor do they lay aside this Fashion of the Face, devoted and oblig'd to Gallantry, 'till they have slain an E∣nemy.

Upon Blood, and Sports, they discover the Fore∣head, and declare, That they have made a Recom∣pence for their being born, and that they are worthy of their Country and Parents; that Deformity sticks to the cowardly and timerous. Moreover, every one of the most valiant, wears an Iron Ring, as it were a

Bond (most ignominious to that Nation) 'till he can acquit himself of it by the Death of an Enemy.

This Mode pleases many of the Catti; and now these remarkable People, grown grey, are both shew'd together, to their Enemies, and their own Soldiers: These always give the first Onset: This is always the Fore-front, distinguish'd by the Figure they make; neither in Peace have they milder Aspects: They have no House, or Land, or take Care of any thing; ac∣cording as they come to any one, they are provided for; are profuse of another's, Contemners of their own, 'till Bloodless Old Age makes them incapable of such hard Service.

The Vsipii, and Tenecteri, Neighbours to the Catti, inhabit upon the Rhine, now known by the Channel, which is su••••icient to be a Boundary.

The Tenecteri, above their accustomed Reputation in War, excel in the Art of Horse-Discipline; nor have the Catti a greater Repute for Foot, than the Tenecteri have of Horse: So have their Ancestors instituted, and their Posterity imitate them. These are the Plays of Children, this the Emulation of Young Men, and the Aged persevere in them.

Amongst the Family, and Goods, as the Rights of Successions, Horses are deliver'd: The Son receives them; not as he does the rest, by Priority of Birth, but as he is more Couragious, and a better Man in War.

Near the Tenecteri, in Times past, the Bructeri liv'd: Now its reported, that the Chamavi, and Angrivarii, are come to dwell there; having chas'd away, and to∣tally extirpated the Bructeri, either by the Consent of the bordering Nations, or out of Hatred to their Ambition, or for the Sweetness of the Booty, or by a peculiar Favour of the Gods to us: For they did not envy us the Sight of a Battle, wherein were slain above Threescore thousand; not by the Roman Arms, and Darts, but what is more Mag∣nificent,

to give Diversion, and to delight the Eye.

I pray, that if the Affection for us from these Coun∣tries can't remain and continue, that their Aversion for one another may; that when the Fates of the Em∣pire are declining, Fortune can't perform a Greater Thing than the Discord of our Enemies.

The Dulgibini, and Chasuari, shut up on the back; the Angrivarii, and Chamavi, and other Nations, not so much as mention'd. On the Front the Frisii are ready to receive them: They are call'd the Greater, or Lesser Frisii, from the Proportion of their Forces; both Nations spread themselves from the Rhine to the Ocean; where Fame hath publish'd, that Hercules's Pil∣lars are there, as yet, remaining.

Whether Hercules was there, or whether what is every-where Magni••icent, we agree to impute to his Honour.

Nor was Resolution wanting to Drusus Germanicus; but the Ocean oppos'd both him and Hercules, from making further Discovery. Since no one hath attempt∣ed it, it looks more holy and reverend to believe, ra∣ther than be too inquisitive, in prying into the Secrets of the Gods.

Hitherto we have known Germany towards the West. Towards the North it returns with a very great Winding.

And first of the Country of the Chauci. Al∣though it begins from the Frisii, and possesses part of the Shoar, yet it is cover'd by the Confines of all those Nations, which I have describ'd, until it winds even to the Catti.

Such an immense Tract of Ground, the Chauci don't only inhabit, but also replenish: The most Noble of all the Germans, and who chuse rather to defend their Greatness by their Iustice. Without Covetousness, without Weak∣ness,

quiet and sequestred, make no War, are wasted by no Theft or Robbery: And this is a principal Demonstra∣tion of their Courage and Force, because that they did not obtain by Injuries a Superiority over others. Not∣withstanding they are all in a readiness for War. And if their State requires an Army, they are well provided of Men and Horses, and they are in the same Repute when they lie still.

On the side of the Chauci, and Catti, the Cherusci be∣ing unprovok'd, have too long indulg'd a lasting, but consuming Peace, which was more pleasant than safe; because between the impotent and powerful there's no living in Security: When it's done by Force, Modesty, and Integrity, are Names in the Power of the Superiour: So that they which were, in former Times, the good and just Cherusci, are now call'd cowardly and foolish: Fortune, in the conquering Catti, was re∣puted in them Wisdom; and the Fosi, a bordering Nation of the Cherusci, were affected with the Ruine of the Cherusci, by Right, their Companious of Ad∣versity; whereas they were much their Inferiours in Prosperity.

The same Coast of Germany, next to the Ocean, the Cimbrians inhabit; now a little City, but great in Glory: Their Camps on both Shoars, are largely the Monuments of their ancient Fame, and those Intervals, by whose Compass thou may'st compute the Bulk and Strength of the Nation, and the Confidence they had of so great an Army.

Our City had been founded 640 Years, when first the Arms of the Cimbrians were heard on, Caecilius Metellus, and Papirius Carbo, being Consuls. From whence, if we reckon to the Second Consulship of the Emperour Trajan, it almost amounts to Two hundred and ten Years; so long Germany was conque∣ring: During which long Space of Time, there were many reciprocal Losses on both sides; neither has

the Samnite, nor the Carthaginians, nor the Spaniards, nor the Gauls, or indeed the Parthians, so often check'd us in our Carier; because the Liberty of the Germans is more vehemently affected, than in the Kingdom of the Parthians: For what hath the East to object against us, besides the D••ath of Crassus, who had lost himself, vanquish'd Pacorus, cast down by Ventidius? But the Germans having slain, or taken Prisoners, Carbo, and Cassius, and Scaurus Aurelius, and Servilius Cepio, and also Marcus Manlius, have, moreover, destroy'd Five Consulary Armies from Rome; and Varus, with his three Legions, sent by Caesar: Neither has Caius Mari∣us, in Italy; the Divine Iulius, in Gaul; Drusus, Nero, and Germanicus, assaulted them in their own Habitati∣ons without Danger.

Not long after, the great Threatnings of Caesar were turn'd into Ridicule.

From this time there was a setled Peace, 'till by the Opportunity of our Discord, and Civil Wars, they had won, by Assault, the Winter-Camps of the Legi∣ons, and also attempted Gaul: And being again from thence repuls'd, were afterward rather triumph'd o∣ver, than conquer'd.

Now we must treat of the Su••vians, of whom there is not only one Nation, as of the Catti and Tenecteri; for they take up the major part of Germany, di∣vided as yet by Countries, and distinct Names; al∣though, in general they may be call'd Suevians. Its the Mark of the Nation, to curl their Hair, and tie it in a Knot: So are the Suevians distinguish'd from the rest of the Germans; so are the Free-born of the Sue∣vians from the Vassals. So in other Countries, whe∣ther from the Alliance of the Suevians, or (which of∣ten happens) in imitation, and that seldom, and whilst they are young too: Amongst the Suevians, even till they're Grey, they tie their brisly Hair behind, and

oftentimes upon the Crown of the Head only: Their Princes wear it more exact: Such innocent Care they take of their Beauty. Nor do they do it out of a De∣sign, that they may make Love, or be beloved: They go into Battle with their Hair comb'd high, and for a Terror, and are so trimm'd up in view of their Ene∣mies.

The Semnones report, That they are the most An∣cient, and Noble of the Suevians. The Truth of their Antiquity, is confirm'd by their Religion. At a set time, all the People of one Blood, assemble by their Embassies in a Wood, Sacred by the Oracles of their Ancestors, and by an ancient Veneration, and celebrate the horrid Beginnings of their barbarous Rites, by publickly killing a Man.

There is also another Reverence paid to that Grove; no one enters into it, unless bound like an inferior Person, and professing openly the Power of their God: If by chance he falls down, it's not lawful to be taken away, or rise up, but he is roll'd off the Ground: And thither all their Superstition tends; and from thence were deriv'd the Origine of their Nation, that there was a God, Ruler of all, that all beside were subject, and obeying.

The Success of the Semnones gives this Authority: They inhabit a Hundred Villages; and compose so great a Body, that they believe themselves the Head of the Suevians: On the other hand, the small Num∣ber they have makes famous the Longobards; because, being encompass'd with many, and very powerful Na∣tions, they are safe themselves, not by a Compliance, but by Battles and Hazards. Moreover, the Reudigui, and Aviones, and Angli, and Varini, and Eudoses, and Suardones, and Nuithones, are fortify'd by Rivers and Woods: Neither is there any thing remarkable in particular, but that they in common Worship Her∣thum, that is, their Mother-Earth, and believe she in∣interposes

in the Affairs of Mankind. There is a Sa∣cred Wood in an Island of the Ocean, and a Chariot dedicated in it, cover'd with a Garment, allow'd to be touch'd but by one Priest: He understands, when the Goddess is come to her Retiring Room, and follows her, drawn by Cows, with much Veneration. Then are their Days of Rejoycing, and Festival Places, which she vouchsafes to honour with her Presence, whatsoe∣ver she reputes worthy of her Arrival and Friendship. They make no Wars, put on no Armor, all their Arms are lock'd up: Peace and Tranquility is only then known, then only belov'd, 'till the same Priest returns the Goddess to her Temple, satiated with the Conversation of Mortals; presently after the Chariot, and Vestments, (and if you'll Credit it) the Deity her self is wash'd in a secret Lake: Bond-men attend, whom the same Lake immediately swallows up; from hence there's a mystical Terror, and a holy Ignorance, that should be, which they only see, who are just pe∣rishing. And this part of the S••evi is extended into the very Heart of Germany; the nearer (that I may af∣ter the same Method, as I did a little before, follow the Rhine, so I may now the Danube) is the City of the Hermunduri, faithful to the Romans; and therefore to these of all the Germans, is Traffick allow'd, not only upon the Bank, but in the Bowels of the Country, and in the most flourishing Colony of the Province of Rhaetia: They go where they please, without a Guard; and whereas to other Nations, we shew only our Arms and Incampments, to these, we throw open our Houses, and Villa's, they not so much as coveting them. Amongst the Hermunduri, the River Albis rises, formerly very famous and much known; now its scarcely heard of. Hard by the Hermunduri, the Na∣rissi, and further on the Marcomani, and Quadi live. The highest Reputation and Power the Marcomani have acquir'd by their Valour, and also their Habita∣tion,

having in times pass'd driven out the Boii. Nei∣ther do the Narisci, or Quadi degenerate; and this is as it were the Entrance of Germany, so far as its cover'd by the Danube. The Marcomani and Quadi, even within Memory, had Kings of their own Nation: The Noble Race of the Marobodui, and Turdi; and even now they submit to be govern'd by Foreigners; but the Force and Power of their Kings is deriv'd from the Roman Authority. They are seldom assisted with our Arms, tho' o••ten with our Money: Neither are the M••rsigni, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Osi, Burii, which lie at the Back of the M••••••omani and Quadi, of less Power, of whom the ••arsigni, and Burii, in Speech and Habit resemble the Suevii. The Gallican Language convinces, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gothini; the Pannonian, that the Osi, are not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Germans, because they submit to Tax∣••••••: Part of their Tribute the Sarmates, other part the Quadi impose on them, as upon Foreigners. The Gothini, to their Disgrace, also dig up Iron: And all these have seiz'd little of the Champaigne, but Forests, and the Tops and Heights of Mountains; for a con∣tinued Ledge of Hills separates and divides Suevia; be∣yond which many Nations dwell; out of which, the Names of the Lygii is the most 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••o many Ci∣ties.

It may suffice to instance the Arii, Helveconi, Mani∣mi, Elusiii, Naharvali, as the most Potent. Amongst the Naharvali, a Grove of the Ancient Religion is shewn; a Priest presides in Womanish Attire; but they report, That the Gods were Castor and Pollux; by a Roman Construction, the Name of that Deity is Al∣cis: There are no Images, no Monuments of a Foreign Superstition; notwithstanding, as Brothers, as young Men, they are worshipp'd. But the Arii over and above their Forces, in which they surpass those People, that are little before reckon'd up, are Cruel, and with Art and Time set off their innate Fierceness: Their

Shields are black, their Bodies painted, they make Choice of dark Nights for their Engagements; and by a Dread and Shadow this dismal Army strikes a Terror, no Enemy being able to support this new, and as it were, infernal Sight; for the Eyes are first conquer'd in all Battles. Beyond, the Lygi, the Gothons are govern'd a little more slavishly, than the rest of the Countries of Germany; and yet not beyond Liberty. Next them, from the Ocean lie the Rugii, and Lemo∣vii; and the Distinction of all these Nations, are round Shields, short Swords, and Loy•••••• to their Kings. From hence, the Cities of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 besides Men and Arms, are powerful in Shipping in the very O∣cean: The Make of their Ships differs in this, be∣cause, on both sides, the Prow of the Ship ••lways guides the Fore-part ready for Landing; 〈…〉〈…〉 they manag'd by Sails; nor do they make fit 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Oars in order on the sides: The rowing is mov'•• ••i∣ther and thither as ill, and in some Rivers change∣able, as occasion requires. They set a Value upon Riches; and therefore, one governs, ••i••••out excepti∣on, and not with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Right of being ac∣countable. 〈…〉〈…〉 their Arms in common, as a∣mongst the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 o•• the Germans, but they are shut up under a Keeper, and that also a Slave; because the Sea keeps off the sudden Incursions of an Enemy: Be∣sides, Soldiers that have nothing to do, easily grow effeminate: For, it is not the Interest of a King, to set the Noble, nor Free-born, nor ind••ed the Freed∣man, over his Armory.

Beyond the Suionians is another Sea, slow, and al∣most motionless, by which there is a Belief, that the whole World is bounded, and encompass'd; be∣cause the last Brightness of the Setting Sun continues till it rises again, and so very clear, that it eclipses the very Stars. Some are of a Persuasion, that a Sound is to be heard of his rising out of the Sea, and that the

Forms of Gods, and the Rays of his Head are to be seen. Even there (and Fame is true) is the end of the World. Therefore, now on the right Coast of the Suevian Sea, the Countries of the Aestyii are beat up∣on, who follow the Customs and Habits of the Suevi∣ans; but their Language comes nearer to the British: They worship the Mother of the Gods; they carry about the Pictures of Boars, as the Cognizance of Superstition; that's for Arms, and a full Protection, and Warrants the Worshipper of the Goddess secure, even among his Enemies. They make use of Clubs, more than Steel: The•• labour harder for Corn, and other Fruits, than is customary for the Sloath of the Ger∣mans; and ••••••gently pry into the Sea; and they only of all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gather Amber, which they call Glesum, amon••••t the Shallows, and on the very Shoar: Nei∣ther is the Nature or Reason which produces it, en∣qui••••d after, or found out, by these Barbarians. More∣over, it lay long amongst the rest of the Purgings of the Sea, ••ill our Luxury gave it a Name: They make no use of it, for its unskilfully gathered, and brought mis-shapen to us; and they with wonder, receive the Price: Notwithstanding, yo•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 take it to be the Iuice of a Tree; because some 〈…〉〈…〉 also flying Animals, for the most part appear in the midst of it, which being intangl'd by its Viscosity, and suddenly, that Matter growing hard, are enclos'd. As in the more remote Places of the East, the Woods and Groves are more fruitful, where Frankinsence and Balms distil; so I should believe, that there are in the Islands, and Countries of the West, which drawn out and melted by the Rays of the Neighbouring Sun, glide into the adjacent Sea, and by the Force of the Tempests, float to the opposite Shoar: If you experi∣ment the Nature of Amber in the Fire, it burns like a Torch, and nourishes the pinguous, and odoriferous Flame, and immediately grows as soft as Pitch or Rosin.

The Countries of the Sitoni are bounded by the Suevians; in other things they are alike, and differ on∣ly in this, that they are govern'd by a Woman; inso∣much, as they don't only degenerate from Liberty, but even from Servitude. This is the End of Suevia.

I am in suspence, whether I should ascribe the Na∣tions of the Peucinians, Venedians, and Fennians, to the Germans, or Sarmates; although the Peucinians, whom some call Bastarnas, in Speech, Habit, Situation, and their little Huts, live as the Germans: They are all nasty and sluggish: The Marriages of their Nobles are in∣termix'd; they are somewhat disfigur'd by the Dress of their Garments. The Venedi have very much fol∣low'd their Customs; for they ravage, whatsoever is built on the Hills, between the Peucinians and Fenni∣ans: Yet, these ought rather to be reckon'd amongst the Germans, because they both pitch their Tents, car∣ry up and down their Shields, and take a Pride in Footmanship, and being Fleet: All which things dif∣fer from the Sarmates, who live in Waggons, and on Horse-back.

The F••nnians are extreamly Cruel, and very Neces∣sitous, having 〈…〉〈…〉, nor Horses, nor Houses; their Food 〈…〉〈…〉, their Cloathing Skins, and their Lodging is the Ground; their Confidence is in their Arrows, which for want of Iron, they point with Bones: The same Hunting maintains the Men, and the Women also; for they accompany one another every where, and demand part of the Booty. Nor is there any other place of Refuge for the very Infants, from wild Beasts and the Weather, than that they're cover'd over with interwoven Boughs. Hither the Youth return, this is the Receptacle of the Aged; this they deem more happy, than groaning under the Toil of tillinged Ground; than to take Pains in building Houses, and turning over their own, and other Peoples Fortune, betwixt Hope and Fear; here they are se∣cure

against Men, secure against the Gods, having at∣tain'd the most difficult Affair; that they have no Vows to make to the Gods; that they have nothing to wish. For other things, they're meerly fabulous; That the Hellusii and Oxionae have the Faces and Coun∣tenances of Men, their Bodies and Limbs of wild Beasts; which I will leave in common as a thing uncertain.

The End of the Second Volume.