The tragedies, gathered by Ihon Bochas, of all such princes as fell from theyr estates throughe the mutability of fortune since the creacion of Adam, vntil his time wherin may be seen what vices bring menne to destruccion, wyth notable warninges howe the like may be auoyded. Translated into Englysh by Iohn Lidgate, monke of Burye.

☞Omne regnum in se diuisum desolabitur.

For who sawe euer kyngdome or countrey Stande in quiete of possession, But if there were, ryght, peace, and equitie, And iust accorde without discention, Voyde of vntruth and false collusion▪ Plainly declaryng by ensample and scripture Kingdomes deuided may no while endure.

Seeth here example of Thebes the citye, And how that noble myghty region Through their frowarde false duplicitie, With warre were brought to destruction, Their promise broken, & their couert treason, Shewed by their harmes ipossible to recure, Kingdomes deuided may no while endure.

Princes, princesses which haue the souerain∣tie Ouer the people, and domination, Ifye lyst longe lyue in felicitie, Cherishe your subiectes, do none extorcion. And aduertise, of wysdome and reason, As this tragedy dothe to you discure, Kyngdomes deuided may no while endure.