Nicholas Machiavel's Prince· Also, the life of Castruccio Castracani of Lucca. And the meanes Duke Valentine us'd to put to death Vitellozzo Vitelli, Oliverotto of Fermo, Paul, and the Duke of Gravina. Translated out of Italian into English; by E.D. With some animadversions noting and taxing his errours.

The life of Castruccio Castracani of Lucca, composed by Nicholas Machiavelli, and presen∣ted to Zanobi ••••ond••lmonti and Luigi Alomanni his very good friends.

ZANOBI and LUIGI, my very good friends, it seemes a matter of great mervayle to those that take it into considerati∣on, how that all they, or the grea∣ter part of them, who have effe∣cted great things in this World, and borne up their heads above others their contemporaries, have taken their rises and births from obscure and base beginnings; or such as have been by Fortune ex∣traordinarily afflicted. For all of them have been either exposed to the mercy of savage creat••r••s, or had such base Sires, that as asha∣med

of them, they have feigned themselves sons to Jupiter, or some other Deity; who these have been, every one having knowledge of many of them, we shall omit to relate, as superfluous, yeelding rather distaste than delight to the Reader. I am indeed of opinion that it proceeds from hence, viz. in that Fortune willing to de∣monstrate unto the World, that she, and not Wisdome, gives men their greatnesse, therefore begins to shew her strength at such a time, when Wisdome can chal∣lenge no interest, but all rather is to bee attributed as due to her a∣lone. Castruccio Castracani of Lucca was then one of those, who in regard of the times hee liv'd in, and the City where he was borne, effected very great matters, and had, as others in this kind, neither a very fortunate nor known birth, as in my further discourse of his life it shall appeare: which I thought fit to bring to memory, as having found therein a subject

of very great example, as well in regard of valour, as fortune. And I thought I might the better di∣rect this discourse unto you two, who of all that I know most de∣light in such glorious atchieve∣ments. I say then, that the Family of the Castracani is reckoned a∣mong the noble Families of the City of Lucca, however that in these dayes it be much decayed, according to the course of all o∣ther worldly things. Of this there was one Antony borne, who took upon him religious orders, and was a Canon of S. Michaels at Lucca, and in honour thereof was entitled Master Antony. He had but one sister, who was married to Buonaccorso Cennami; but Buo∣naccorso being dead, & she remai∣ning a widdow, betook her selfe to live with her brother, with in∣tention not to marry any more. Master Antony had behind his house where he dwelt, a vineyard, whereinto by reason of divers gardens bordering thereupon on

severall sides, the passage was very ordinary. It happened that one morning a little after the Sunne rise, Dame Dionora, for so was Master Antonies sister cald, walking out into the vineyard, as she was gathering some herbs, after the manner of women, to make a sallet withall; shee heard some kind of russeling under a vine amongst the leaves, and ca∣sting her eye that way, she per∣ceiv'd some little cry there: wher∣upon drawing neare to the noise, she discover'd the hands and face of an infant, wrapt in the vine leaves, which seem'd as if it ask'd her assistance: so that she partly mervayling, partly frighted, full of pity and amazement, tooke it up in her armes: and having car∣ried it home, and wash'd it, and swaddled it in cleane clouts, as they use children; at her returne presented it to Master Antony: who considering the accident, and seeing the child, was as much amaz'd and compassionate as was

his sister: and advising together what they should do in this case, resolved to bring it up, he being a Priest, and she not having any children. Having then taken a nurse into the house, they nou∣rishd it with as much tendernesse as if it had bin their own child; & causing it to be baptiz'd, nam'd it Castruccio, after the name of their own father. Castruccio as he in∣creased in years, so he grew in per∣son & feature, and in every thing he shewd wit and disretion: and quickly, according to his age, he learnd whatsoever Master Anto∣ny taught him: who purposing to make him a Priest, and to turne over unto him his Canonicate, and his other Benefices, instru∣cted him that way: but he found him not a subject fit for that re∣gular life: For so soon as Castruc∣cio came to 14 yeeres of age, and that hee began to grow a little masterfull towards Master An∣tony and Dame Dionora, so that he stood no longer in feare of

them, laying aside all Church books, he began to handle armes, and took not delight in any thing more than to mannage them, or with others his equals to run, leape, or wrastle, and such other like exercises: wherein he shew'd such courage and strength, that he far surpassd all others of his age; and if any time he gave him∣selfe to reading, he took pleasure in nothing else than discourses of wars, and the actions of most fa∣mous men: for which cause Ma∣ster Antony was much griev'd at heart. In the City of Lucca there happened to dwell a Gentleman of the Family of the Guinigi, cald Master Francis, who for fortunes, esteem, and valour, out-went all others the citizens of Lucca: who was always train'd up in bearing of armes, and who had a long time serv'd under the Viscounts of Milan: and because he was a Gi∣belline, he was accounted of above all that follow'd that faction in Lucca. This man being then in

Lucca, and assembling morning and evening, with the rest of the citizens under the Governours Palace, which is in the head of the place of S. Michael, being the prime place of Lucca; oftentimes saw Castruccio using of those ex∣ercises with other lads of the towne, wherein I formerly said he took delight; and perceiving that besides the mastering of them, he held over them a kind of Princely authority, and that they again lov'd and reverenc'd him, he became very desirous to know what he was: whereof being in∣form'd by some there present, hee became the more desirous to take him home to him; and calling him one day to him, ask'd him, where he had rather live, either in a Cavaliers house, when he might learne to ride and use his armes, or a••••••e in a Priests house, where nothing else were to be heard but their Offices and Masses? Master Francis perceiv'd how much Ca∣struccio was cheer'd upon the

mention of horses and armes; yet he standing a little out of counte∣nance, Mr. Francis again encou∣raging him to speak, he answerd, that if his Patron would therwith be content, hee could not have a greater pleasure, than to quit this calling of Priest, and betake him∣selfe to that of a Souldier. Master Francis was much satisfy'd with this reply: and in a short time so negociated in this matter, that Master Antony gave him up to his charge, whereunto hee was the rather mov'd by the lads incli∣nation, judgeing thereby that he could not hold him much longer in his former course. Castruccio then being preferr'd from Master Antony Castracani the Priests house, to the Palace of Master Francis Guinigi the Commander; it was a marvaile to think in how short a time hee attain'd to those vertues and good qualities, which are requir'd in a compleate Cava∣liere. First he became an excellent horseman: for he was able to

manage the roughest horse at ease, and, though but a youth, in jousts and tournaments hee was of prime remarque; so that in any action of strength or activity, none could exceed him. These perfections besides, were season'd with such manners, and good qualities, as that touching mode∣sty, it was incredible how that either in word or deed he gave no distaste to any; to his superiours he yeelded reverence; he was mo∣dest with his equals, and pleasant with his inferiours; which gain'd him favour, not only in the whole Family of Guinigi, but also in the whole City of Lucca. It chanc'd in those times, Castruccio being now arriv'd to eighteen yeares of age, that the Gibellins were chasd by the Guelfes from Pavia, in fa∣vour of whom Master Francis Guinigi was sent for by the Vis∣county of Milan, with whom went Castruccio, as hee on whose shoulders lay the charge of the whole troops: in which imploy∣ment,

Castruccio gave such proofs of his judgement and courage, that not one in this expedition gain'd so much esteeme as he, and his name became honourable, not only in Pavia, but throughout all Lombardy. Castruccio being then return'd to Lucca of far greater esteeme, than before his departure he was; fayl'd not (to his power) to gaine himselfe friends, practi∣sing meanes to win them. But Master Francis Guinigi now chancing to dye, and having left behind him a son nam'd Paul of 13 yeares of age; appointed Ca∣struccio his Tutor, and the Go∣vernour of his estate; having first causd him to bee cald to him be∣fore his death, and intreated him, that he would take upon him the care to bring up his son, with that faithfulnesse he had found himselfe, and that what kindnesses he could not returne to the father, he would requite to the son. And now at length Master Francis Guinigi being dead, Castruccio

left Tutour and Governour to Paul, grew in such credit and power, that the favour hee was wont to find in Lucca, in some part was turn'd into envy, and he was calumniated by many, as who they doubted had some pro∣jects upon a tyranny. Among whō the principall was M. George Opizi, head of the Guelfes facti∣on. This man hoping by the death of Mr. Francis, to remaine with∣out competitour in Lucca, thought that Castruccio, being left with that trust, by the grace and favour his discret carriage gain'd him, had bereav'd him of all meanes, to attaine thereto; and hereupon sowed many seeds of scandall a∣gainst him, whereby to choake his well-grown credit. Which at first Castruccio disdeign'd, but afterwards grew jealous of it: for he thought that Master George would never rest, till he had so far disgrac'd him with King Ro∣bert of Naples his Lievftenant, as to cause him to chase him out of

Lucca. At that time there was one Ʋguccion of Fagginolo of A∣rezo, then Lord of Pisa, who by the Pisans was first chosen for their Commander, and after∣wards made himselfe their Lord. Divers out-law'd Luccheses of the Gibellin faction abode with Ʋguccion, whome Castruccio practis'd to restore againe with Ʋguccions aid; and this designe he communicated also with his friends at home, who could no way endure the Opizies autority. Having therefore given order, as was requisite, to this purpose, Castruccio fortify'd the tower of the Honesti, and furnishd it with munition and store of vittayls, whereby upon occasion he might be able to defend himselfe therein for some time: and the night being come, which was agreed of with Ʋguccion: hee gave the signe to him, who was gone down into the plaine with much people between the mountaines and Lucca; and having seene the

signall hee came close to Saint Peters gate, and fir'd the antiport: Castruccio on the other side raisd a great cry, calling the people ••o armes, and forcd the gate on the other side within: so that Ʋ∣guccion entring with his men, forcd the towne, and slew Mr. George with all those of his Fa∣mily, and many others his friends and partisans, and chasd out the governour, and changd the State of the City, as Ʋguccion lik'd best, to the great dammage thereof; for it appeard then, that there were above a hundred families chasd out of Lucca. Those that fled, part went to Florence, and part to Pistoya, which Cities were then governd by the Guelfes fa∣ction; and hereupon they became enemies to Ʋguccion and the Luccheses. And upon this the Florentines and the rest of the Guelfes thinking the Gibellines faction growne too mighty in Tuscany, accorded together to re∣store againe these exild Luccheses,

and having levyed a huge army, they came to the vale of Nievo∣le, and seizng upon Mount Cati∣no, from hence they went to in∣campe at Mount Carlo, whereby to have the passage open to Luc∣ca. Whereupon Ʋguccio having gatherd a good army of Pisans and Luccheses, besides many Dutch horse which hee drew out of Lombardy, went to find the Florentines campe: which perceiving the enimies approach, was removd from Mount Carlo, and settled between Mount Ca∣tino and Pescia; and Ʋguccion sate downe under Mount Carlo about some two miles off the enemy, where for some dayes between the Horse of the two Armyes there passd some slight skirmishes: for Ʋguccion being falne sick, the Pisans and Luc∣cheses refusd to come to battell with the enemy. But Ʋgucci∣ons malady augmenting, hee re∣tird to Mount Carlo for his re∣covery, and committed the charge

of the army to Castruccio, which was the Guelfes destruction: for hereupon they tooke courage; esteeming the enemies armies as ••eft without a head: which Ca∣struccio understood, and lay still ••ome few dayes, the more to con∣firme this their opinion, making shew of feare, and not suffering any one to goe out of the tren∣ches: and on the other side the Guelfes the more they saw this ••eare, the more insolent they be∣came, and every day being or∣derd for fight, they presented themselves before Castruccio's ar∣my, who thinking hee had now enough, emboldned them, and having had full notice of what order they kept, resolved to come to the tryall of a day: and first with his speeches hee confirmd his souldiers courage, and shewd them the victory certaine, if they would follow his directions. Ca∣struccio had seene how the ene∣my had plac'd all his strength in the body of the army, and the

weaker sort in the wings there∣of: whereupon hee did the clean•• contrary; for hee put his be•••• souldiers in his wings, and hi•• flightest people in the body: and issuing out of his trenches with this order, so soone as ever he•• came within view of the enemy which insolently, as before they had wont, came to find them out, hee commanded that thos•• squadrons in the middle shoul•• goe on leisurely, but that the res•• should move with speed, inso∣much that when they came to joyne battell with the enemy, only the wings of each army fought, and the troops in the middle stood unimployd because the middle part of Castruccio'•• army had lagguerd so much be∣hind, that the enemyes body had not yet reach'd to them: and thus the ablest of Castruccio's army came to fight with the weakest of the enemies, and the enemie•• strength lay idle, not able to en∣dammage those, they were to

encounter with, nor could they ••ayd any of their owne party: so that without much difficulty, the enemies two winges were both put to flight, and they in the mid∣dle seeing themselves left naked on each flanke, without having whereupon to shew their valour, fled likewise. The rout and the slaughter were great: for there were slaine above ten thousand men, with many Officers, and great Cavaliers of the Guelfes fa∣ction throughout all Tuscany, and many Princes, who came thither in favour of them: to wit, Peter King Roberts Brother, and Charles his nephew, and Philip Lord of Taranto: but of Castruccio's side they came not to above three hun∣dred: among which Francis Ʋ∣guccions sonne was slaine: who being young and over venturous, was killd at the first onset. This overthrow much augmented Ca∣struccio's credit, so that Ʋguccion grew so jealous and suspitious of his owne State, that hee continu∣ally

busied his brains how to bring him to destruction, think∣ing with himselfe, that that vi∣ctory had rather taken his powe•• from him, than settled it: an•• being in this thought, while he•• awaited some faire colour to ef∣fect his designes, it happned tha•• Pieragnolo Michaeli was slain•• in Lucca, a man of good worth and esteeme, and the Assassin•• fled into Castruccio s house where the Captaines and Ser∣jeants going to apprehend him were affronted, and hindred by Cstaruccio, so that the murtherer by his ayd escapd, which thing Ʋguccion, who was then at Pisa, hearing, and deeming then he•• had just occasion to punish him▪ calld unto his owne sonne Neri, to whom hee had now given the command of Lucca and chargd him, that under colour of inviting Castruccio, hee should lay hold on him, and put him to death. Whereupon Castruccio going fa∣miliarly into the commander••

pallaces, not fearing any injury, was first by Neri entertaind at supper, and afterwards seizd on. And Neri doubting, lest by put∣ting him to death, without any publick justification, the people might bee inrag'd, kept him a∣live, till hee were better informd by Ʋguccion what was farther to be done in that case: who blaming his sonnes slownesse and cowardise, for the dispatching hereof went out of Pisa with four hundred Horse towards Lucca: & hardly yet was he arriv'd at the Baths, but the Pisans took armes, and slew Ʋguccions Lieutenant, and the rest of his family, that re∣maind at Pisa, and made Count-Gaddo of Gerardesca their Lord: Ʋguccion before he came to Luc∣ca, had notice of this accident be∣falne in Pisa, yet thought he it not fit to turne back, lest the Lucche∣ses, like as the Pisans, should also shut their gates against him. But the Luccheses understanding the chance at Pisa, notwithstanding

that Ʋguccion was enterd Lucca, taking this occasion to free Ca∣struccio, first began at their mee∣tings in the Piazze to speake slightly of him, afterwards to make some hub-bub, and from thence came to armes, deman∣ding Castruccio to be set free; in∣somuch that Ʋguccion for feare of worse, drew him out of prison: Whereupon Castruccio suddenly rallying his friends, with the peo∣ples favour made an assault upon Ʋguccion who finding no other remedy, fled thence with his friends, and so went into Lom∣bardy to the Lords of Scala, where afterwards hee dy'd poorly. But Castruccio being of a prisoner be∣come as Prince of Lucca, pre∣vaild so by his friends, and with this fresh gale of the peoples fa∣vour, that hee was made Gene∣rall of their Forces for a yeare, which being compassd, to gaine himselfe further credit in armes, hee purposd to recover for the Lucchefes severall townes which

rebelld after Ʋguccions departure, and went also by the Pisans fa∣vour, with whom he had enterd into league at the campe, to Sere∣zana, and to winne that, he had built over it a fort, which, be∣ing afterwards changed by the Florentines, is now calld Sere∣zanello, and in two monthes space tooke the towne, and after∣wards in strength of this credit, hee wonne Massa, Carrara, and Lavenza, and in short time all Lunigiana: and to stop the pas∣sage that comes from Lombardy into Luginiana, he tooke Pontre∣moli, and drew out thence Mr. Anastasia Palivicini, who was Lord thereof. Returning then to Lucca with this victory, hee was met by the whole people: whereupon Castruccio resolving not to deferre longer to make himselfe Prince, by meanes of Pazzino of Poggio, Puccinello of Porcico, Francisco Boccansecchi, and Cécco Guinigi at that time of great repute in Lucca, but

corrupted by him, made himselfe Lord thereof, and so solemnely and by resolution of the people was elected their Prince. At this time Frederick of Baviere King of the Romans, came into Italy to take the Imperiall crown, whom Castruccio made his friend, and went to him with five hun∣dred Horse, having left for his Lieutenant at Lucca Paulo Gui∣nigi, whom in remembrance of his father, hee made account of as his owne child. Castruccio was entertaind very honourably by Frederick, who gave him ma∣ny priviledges, and made him his Deputy in Tuscany; and be∣cause the Pisans had expelld Gad∣do of Gerardesca, and for feare of him askd succours of Frederick, hee made Castruccio their Lord, whom the Pisans accepted for feare of the Guelfes faction, and in particular because of the Floren∣tines. Frederick then being re∣turnd into Germany, and having left at Rome a governour for his

affaires in Italy, all the Gibellins, as well Tuscans as Lombarbs that followd the Imperial faction, had their recourse to Castruccio, and each promisd him the Prin∣cipality of their native country; provided that by his meanes they might bee restord: among whom was Mattheo Guidi, Nardo Sco∣lare, Lapo Ʋberti, Gerozzi Nar∣di and Piero Buonacorsi, all Gi∣bellins, and outlawd Florentines: and Castruccio plotting by helpe of these, and with his owne for∣ces to become Lord of all Tuscany, to gaine himself credit the more, entred into amity with Mr. Mat∣theo Visconti Prince of Milan: and traind up all the men of his owne city and country to armes: and because Lucca had five gates, hee devided the country into five parts, armd them, and distri∣buted them under Captaines and colours, so that on a sudden hee was able to bring together above twenty thousand men into the feild, besides the help hee might

have from Pisa. Hee then being environd with these forces and freinds, it fortun'd that Mr. Mat∣theo Visconti was assayled by the Guelfes of Piacuza; who had driven out the Gibellins, in whose behalfe the Florentines and King Robert had sent their troopes. Whereupon Mr. Mattheo in∣treated Castruccio to assaile the Florentines, that they being con∣straind to defend their owne homes, should call back their men out of Lombardy. So Castruc∣cio with a good artny enterd the Vale Arno, tooke Fucachio, and St. Miniato with great dam∣mage of the country; and upon this occasion the Florentines were forc'd to call back their troopes: who were hardly returnd into Tuscany, but Castruccio was com∣pelld upon another necessity to haste back to Lucca: And in that City the Family of Poggio being of such power and authority as that it had made Castruccio not only great, but Prince also, and

not taking themselves to have been requited as they had deservd, agreed with other Families of Luccato move the city to rebellion and to chace Castruccio thence; whereupon taking occasion one morning they came armd upon the Deputy, whom Castruccio had there ordaind over Justice, and slew him, and further purposing to raise the people to commotion; Steven of Poggio an ancient and peaceable man, who had no hand at all in this conspiracy, came be∣fore them, constrain'd his friends by his autority amongst them, to lay aside their armes, offering himselfe to mediate with Castruc∣cio for them, that he should satis∣fie their desires. Thus they layd down their armes, but not with greater discretion than they had taken them up; for Castruccio having had notice of these novel∣ties befalne in Lucca, without making any delay, with part of his troops, leaving Paul Guinigi Commander of the residue, came

thence to Lucca, where having found the tumult appeasd, beyond his expectation, deeming hee might with the more ease secure himselfe; disposed those of his party in severall places, as best was for his turne. Steven of Pog∣gio thinking with himselfe, that Castruccio was beholding to him, went to him, and intreated, not for himselfe, because he thought it no way needfull for him, but for the others of his Family, praying that many things hee would par∣don, in respect of their youth, and many things in regard of the an∣cient amity, and obligation hee had to the whole kindred. Wher∣unto Castruccio answered courte∣ously, and bid him be of good cheere, and told him that hee re∣ceived more content the tumult was appeased, than hee had had trouble that it was raysed, and perswaded Steven to cause them all to come to him, saying, that he thank'd God he had given him opportunity to make a shew of

his clemency, and bounty. They all then presenting themselves up∣on Stevens word and Castruccios, were together with Steven im∣prisond and put to death. In this meane while the Florentines had recoverd S. Miniato; whereupon Castruccio thought fit to stay that war: cōsidering that as yet he was not secure of Lucca, being that he could not safely part from home; and having causd the Florentines to be felt whether they would ad∣mit of a truce, he found them ea∣sily yeelding theret••; for they al∣so were weary of the charge, and desirous to stop the expence. Whereupon they made a truce of two yeares, and that every one should keep what they had gotten. In the meane while Ca∣struccio being freed from the war, that he might not againe incurre those dangers and hazards which formerly he had run, under di∣vers colours and pretences, cut off all those in Lucca, who could have any ambition to aspire to the

Principality, and pardoned not one of them, depriving them of their Country and Fortunes, and those he could get in his clutches, of their lives: affirming that hee had found it by experience, that none of them would abide true; and for his better safegard, built a Fortresse in Lucca, and made use of the materialls of their Towres, whom he had banish'd and murdred. While Castruccio was thus quiet with the Floren∣tines, and that hee strengthened himselfe in Lucca, he fail'd not to do all that he could, without en∣tring into open hostility to in∣crease his greatnesse: and having a great desire to take Pistoya, thinking with himselfe that by the possession of that City, he had gotten one foot into Florence, gain'd himselfe by divers wayes the whole mountaine to friend, and by the factions hee made in Pistoya, so behav'd himselfe, that every one rely'd much on him. At that time the City was divided

(as always it was) into the Bian∣chi and Neri; head of the Bian∣chi was Bastiano of Possente, and of the Neri, James of Gia: each of which held streight cor∣respondence with Castruccio, and one desir'd to expell th'other, so that the one and the other after many suspicions came to blowes. James made himselfe strong at the gate towards Florence. Basti∣ano at that towards Lucca, and the one and th'other of them re∣lying more upon Castruccio, than upon the Florentines, judging him more ready and quick of dispatch in any thing touching the warre, each of them sent to him secretly for ayd: which Castruccio pro∣mis'd to them both, letting James know that hee would come in person, and telling Bastiano, hee would send Paul Guinigi his Fo∣ster son: and appointing a set time, sent Paul by way of Pes∣cia, and himselfe went straight on to Pistoya, so that about mid∣night, for thus was it agreed be∣tween

Castruccio and Paul, they both arrived at Pistoya, and there receiv'd as friends: being both entred; when Castruccio found his time, he gave the watch word to Paul, whereupon he slew James of Gia, and the other Bastiano of Possente; & all their partakers were partly taken, partly slaine, wher∣upon they forced Pistoya without resistance; & for the government of the towne, Castruccio con∣strained the people to yeeld him obedience, remitting to them many old debts and dutyes, and thus did he to the whole Country thereabouts; who all flock't to∣gether, partly to see the new Prince, so that every one fraught with hopes, or admiring his va∣lour, set his heart at rest. It hap∣pened about this time, that the people of Rome mutinyed upon the extreame dearth of provision there, which was caused by the Popes absence, who was then at Av••gnon and they blamed the Germane government, insomuch

that every day murders and other disorders were committed: which Henry the Emperours De∣puty could no way remedy; whereupon he had a great suspi∣cion that the Romanes would call in King Robert of Naples, and chace him Rome, and so restore it to the Pope: And having no nearer Allie, whom he could make recourse unto, than Castruccio, he sent to intreat him, that he would be pleasd, not only to send him aid, but to come himselfe also in person. Castruccio thought this voyage was no way to be put off, as well to render some service of merit to the Emperour, as because now the Emperour was absent from Rome, there was some ne∣cessity of it: leaving Paul Gui∣nigi at Lucca, hee went thence with two hundred horse to Rome, where he was entertain'd by Henry, with very much honour; and his presence in a short time gave so much credit to the Impe∣rials, that without blood or other

violence, all things were well quieted: for Castruccio having caused a good quantity of corne to be brought by Sea out of the Country about Pisa, tooke away all occasion of offence. After∣wards, partly by admonishing, partly by chastising the chiefe Officers of Rome, he reduc'd them freely under Henries govern∣ment; and Castruccio was crea∣ted a Romane Senatour, besides many other honours he received of the people; and that Order hee tooke with very great pompe, putting on a gowne of cloth of tissue, with great letters before to this purpose: This man is what it pleases God, and againe behind, And shall be what God will. In this meane while the Florentines, who were displeased that Castruc∣cio during the truce had made himselfe Lord of Pistoya, devis'd which way they might make it rebell, which by reason of his absence, they thought might easi∣ly be effected. Amongst the ba∣nish'd

Pistoyeses, who were then at Florence, there was Baldo Cec∣chi, and James Baldini, both men of authority, and ready for any hazard. These men held cor∣respondence with some friends they had within; so that with the Florentines helpe, they entred by night into Pistoya, and chac'd thence Castruccios friends and of∣ficers, and some of them they slew, and restord the City her li∣berty, which news much displeasd Castruccio; so that having taken leave of Henry, he came with his men by great dayes journyes to Lucca. The Florentines when they had word of Castruccios re∣turne, thinking hee would not take much rest, resolv'd to prevent him, and with their forces to en∣ter first into the Vale of Nievole, before him: supposing, that if they first made themselves ma∣sters of that vally, they should cut of from him all meanes of pos∣sibility to recover Pistoya; and so having put in order a great army

of all the friends of the Guelfes fa∣ction, they c••me into the territo∣ry of Pistoya. On the other side, Castruccio came with his troops to mount Carlo, and having lear∣ned where the Florentines army was, determined not to meet them in the plaine of Pistoya, nor to attend them in the plaine of Pas∣cia, but if it might be, to encoun∣ter them in the straight of Sara∣valla; deeming that by bringing his designe to passe, hee should surely gaine the victory; for hee understood the Florentines had got together some forty thousand men, and he had made choyce of some twelve thousand out of all his, and however he was confi∣dent of his own industry, and their valour, yet doubted he, lest if he set on them in a large place, he might bee environ'd by the multitude of the enemies. Sara∣valla is a Castle between Pescia and Pistoya, plac't upon a hill, that shuts in the Valle of Nievole, not upon the very passage, but above

to that some two bow shots of the place, by which a man passes, is more straight than on the sudden; for of every side it rises gently, but in a straight manner, especially upon the hill, where the waters are divided; so that twenty men on the one side and the other would wholly possesse it. In this place Castruccio had a designe to encounter with the enemy, as well because his small troops should have the advantage, as not to discover the enemy, but just upon the skirmish, fearing lest his men seeing the number of the enemies, should be startled. Mr. Manfredi of the German nation, was then Lord of the Castle of Seravalle, who before that Ca∣struccio was Lord of Pistoya, had been left in that Castle, as in a place that was neuter between the Luccheses & Pistoyeses: nor after∣ward befell it either of them to offend him, he promising to abide neuter, and not to apply himselfe to the one or other: So that for

this cause, and for that the situa∣tion was strong, he had kept him∣selfe thus: but upon this accident Castruccio became desirous to possesse this place. And having very neare acquaintance with one of the inhabitants of the place, he so appointed his business with him, that the night before the skirmish was to begin, he should take into the town 400 men of his, and slay the comman∣der; and abiding thus prepared, he stirred not his army from Mount Carlo, the more to encou∣rage the Florentines to passe, who, because they desired to carry the war far off from Pistoya, and to bring it into the Vale of Nievole, encamped under Serravalle, with intention the day following to passe the hill; but Castruccio ha∣ving without any noyse taken the Castle in the night, parted from Mount Carlo about mid∣night, and quietly arrived in the morning at the foot of Serra∣valle, so that at the same instant

both the Florentines and hee began to ascend the side of the hill. Castruccio had sent his in∣fantery by the rode way, and a troope of 400 Horse hee had sent upon the left hand towards the Castle: on the other side the Flo∣rentines had sent 400 Horse be∣fore them, and after those their Foot mov'd, not any way think∣ing they should find Castruccio upon the top of the hill; for they knew nothing of that hee had made himselfe master of the Ca∣stle. Thus at unawares the Floren∣tine Horse having got to the top of the hill, discoverd Castruccio's Foot, and were so near approachd them, that they had hardly time to lace on their helmets. These men then that were unprovided, being assaild by the others that were prepard, and in order, were fiercely set upon, and with much adoe made resistance, and indeed some few of them made head a while: but so s••on as the noyse hereof descended into the

Florentines campe, all was full of confusion. The Horse were oppressd by the Foot, the Foot by the Horse, and their carriages; the Commanders because of the straightnesse of the place could neither advance nor retire: so that no man in this confusion knew what could or should bee done: insomuch that the Horse which were at blowes with the enemies Foot, were cut to peeces, and they not able to defend themselves, because the maligniry of the scite did not suffer them, yet made they resistance more of necessity than of valour: for being hemm'd in by the mountaines on both sides, behind by their freinds, and before by their enemies, they had no way open for flight. Here∣upon Castruccio having perceiv'd that his troops were not able to breake the enimy, sent a thou∣sand Foot by way of the Castle, causing them to descend with the 400 Horse which hee had sent before, who struck them so rude∣ly

upon the flanke, that the Flo∣rentines unable longer to resist that violence, vanquisht rather by the place than by the eni∣my, all tooke them to flight; and the flight began from those who were behind towards Pistoya, who dispersing themselves all a∣long the plaine, every one where hee best could, provided for his safegard. This defait was very great and bloody; many Com∣manders were taken, among which was Bandino of Rossi, Prancesco Brunnelleschi, and John of Tosa, all noble Florentines, and many other Tuscans, besides divers of the Kingdome of Naples, who being sent by King Robert in favour of the Guelfes serv'd un∣der the Florentines. The Pistoy∣eses hearing of this rout, without delay chasing out the faction of the Guelfes, yeelded themselves to Castruccio. Who not conten∣ted herewith, tooke Piato, and all the Castles of the plaine, as well on this as on the other side

of Arno, and set himselfe downe with his army in the plaine of Perettola some two miles of from Florence, where hee abode many dayes to divide the spoyle, and to feast for joy of the victory got∣ten, causing moneys to be stamp'd in scorne of the Florentines, and races to be runne by horse, men, and queanes: neither faild hee to endeavour to corrupt some no∣ble Citizens, to open to him in the night the gates of Florence; but the conspiracy being disco∣verd, they were taken and behea∣ded, among whom was Thomas Lupacco, and Lambertuccio Fre∣scobaldi. Hereupon the Florentines being affrighted upon this defeat, hardly knew any remedy to pre∣serve their liberty: and to the end they might bee sure of ayd, sent Ambassadours to Robert King of Naples, to give him the City, and the dominion thereof. Which that King accepted of, not somuch for the honour the Florentines had done him, as for that hee

knew well how much it impor∣ted his State that the Guelfes fa∣ction should maintaine the State of Tuscany: and having agreed with the Florentines to have of them two hundred thousand Flo∣rins by the yeare, hee sent Charles his sonne with foure thousand Horse to Florence: so that the Flo∣rentines were somewhat easd of Castruccio's troopes: for th••y were constraind to leave their ter∣ritories and to goe to Pisa, there to represse a conspiracy made a∣gainst him by Benedicto Lanfran∣chi, one the cheife of Pisa, who not being able to endure that his native country should be en∣thralld to a Lucchese, conspird against him, plotting to seize upon the Cittadell, and to chace out the garrison, and to slay those of Castruccio's party. But because in such matters, if the small num∣ber be fit to keepe the secret, yet suffices it not to put it in execu∣tion: while hee went about to gaine more men to his purpose,

some there was that bewrayd his plot to Castruccio: neither passd this discovery without the infa∣my of Bonifacio Cerchi and John Guidi Florentines, who were neare neighbours to Pisa; whereupon Benedicto being layd hand on, was put to death, and all the rest of that Family banisht, and ma∣ny other Noble Citizens behea∣ded: and thinking with himselfe that Pistoya and Pisa were not very faithfull unto him, he tooke care both by his industry and forces to secure himselfe thereof: which gave leysure to the Floren∣tines to recover their strength, and to be able to attend the returne of Charles: who being arriv'd, they determined to lose no longer time, and gatherd a great number of men; for they calld together to their ayd in a manner all the Guelfes in Italy, and made an exceeding great army of more than 30000 Foot, and 10000 Horse: and having advisd, which were first to bee assaild,

either Pistoya, or Pisa, they re∣solv'd it were better to set first upon Pisa, being a thing more likely to succeed, by reason of the late conspiracy there, as also of more profit, deeming that if Pisa were once gotten, Pistoya would soone render of it selfe. The Flo∣rentines then going forth with this army in the beginning of May 1328, suddenly tooke La∣stra, Signia, Mount Lupo, and Empoli, and came with their ar∣my to St. Miniato. Castruccio on the other part perceiving this great army, which the Florentines had brought against him, was nothing startled, but rather thought that this was the time, when Fortune was to give him in his hand the whole dominion of Tuscany: beleeving they should have no better successe in this of Pisa, than formerly they had in that of Serravalle; and that now they could not hope to repaire themselves againe, as then; where∣upon assembling twenty thou∣sand

Foot and 4000 Horse, hee brought his army to Fucechio, and sent Paul Guinigi with 5000 Foot to Pisa. Fucechio is seated in a stronger place than any other Castle, upon the territory of Pi∣sa, because it is in the midst be∣tween the Gusciana and the Arno, and a little raisd from the plaine; where he abiding, the enemies were not able, unlesse they divi∣ded their army into two parts, to hinder his provision either from Lucca, or Pisa; neither could they but upon disadvantage either come upon him, or goe towards Pisa: for in one case they might be inclosd in the midst between Castruccios troopes, and those of Pisa; in the other case, having the Arno to passe, they could not doe it with the enemy on their backs, without very great danger. And Castruccio for their incouragement to undertake the passage had not plac d himselfe with his troopes along the banke of Arno, but a little aside neare

unto the walls of Fucechio, and had left distance enough between the River and him. The Floren∣tines having gotten St. Miniato, advisd whether were to be done, either to goe to Pisa, or to find out Castruccio; and having mea∣sured the difficulties of both cour∣ses, they resolvd to goe and in∣vest him. The river Arno was so low that a man might wade over it, but yet not so, but that the infantery was wet to the shoul∣ders, and the Horse even to the saddle. Upon the tenth day then of June in the morning, the Florentines in battell array, causd part of their Cavalery to begin to passe, and a body of ten thousand Foot. Castruccio who stood ready and intent to what hee had in his mind to doe, with a batta∣lion of five thousand Foot and three thousand Horse fell upon them: neither give hee them a∣ny time to get out of the water but that hee was at blowes with them; hee sent a thousand light

armd Foot up by the banke on that part under the Arno, and a thousand above it. The Floren∣tines Foot were mueh distressed with the water and weight of their armes, nor had they all yet got over the channell of the river. When some of the Horse had passd, by reason that they had moord the bottome of the Arno, they made the passage the unea∣sier for them that came after them; for the bottome proving rotten and miry, some of the Horse came over and over on their riders, and many stuck so fast in the mud that they were there stabled: whereupon the Florentine Commanders seeing the difficulty to passe on that part, causd them to retire and make proofe of a higher part of the river, whereby to finde a sounder bottome, and the chan∣nell more favorable for their passage: against whom those whom Castruccio had sent under the banke, made resistance, who

slightly armd with targets and darts in their hands, with huge outcryes, wounded them both in the face and brest, insomuch that the horses affrighted both with the cryes and strokes, would in no wise passe forwards, but fell foule one upon another: the fight between Castruccio's men and those that were already past, was sharp and terrible, and of each side there fell many, and every one usd all his skill and strength to overcome his adversary. Ca∣struccio's men would force them back into the river; the Florentines striv'd to put forwards to make place for others, that being come forth of the water, they might be able to stand to the fight, to which obstinacy there was added the Captaines encouragements. Castruccio put his men in mind, that these were the same enemies, which but a little while agoe they had beaten at Sarravalle. The Florentines reproachd theirs, that they being many, should suffer a

few to overcome them. But Ca∣struccio perceiving that the fight lasted, and that his owne and his adversaries were well wearied, and that on each side many were hurt and slaine, hee sent out a∣nother band of five thousand Foot, and when hee brought them up to the very back of his owne that fought, hee gave order that they before should open, and wheele about, one on the right hand, the other on the left, and so retire; which thing done gave roome to the Florentines to ad∣vance and gaine some ground. But when once they came to handy blowes, the fresh men with those that were tir'd, they staid not long ere they forc'd them back into the river, between the Horse of the one side, and the other, yet there was not much advantage: whereupon Castruccio knowing his owne inferiour, had given order to the leaders, that they should only maintaine fight, as hee that hop'd to overcome

the Foot; which done, he might bee able with more ease to over∣come the Horse; which fell out as hee purposd: for having seene the Foot forc'd back into the river, hee sent the rest of his in∣fantery against the enemies Horse, who with lances and darts woun∣ding them, and the Cavalery al∣so pressing them with greater fu∣ry, put them to flight. The Flo∣rentine Commanders seeing the difficulty that their Horse had to passe; strove to make their Foot passe on that part beneath the river, to fight with the flanke of Castruccio's troops. But the chan∣nell being deep, and all above already possest by his men, all this prov'd vaine. Whereupon the whole army was put to rout, to Castruccio's great glory and ho∣nour, and of so great a multitude there escap'd not a third. Ma∣ny Chieftaines were taken, and Charles sonne of King Robert, together with Michaelangelo Fal∣coni, and Taddeo of the Albizi

Florentine Commissaries, fled thence to Empoli. The spoyle taken was great, the slaughter exeeeding great, as a man may imagine in such and so great a conflict: for of the Florentine ar∣my 20231, and of Castruccio's part 1570 were left dead upon the place. But Fortune being enemy to his glory, when as she should have given him life, took it from him, and interrupted those designes which hee a long time before had purposd to put in ef∣fect: neither could any thing but death hinder him. Castruccio had toyld himselfe all that day in the battell, when at the end thereof all weary and sweaty, he stayd about the port of Fucechio, to attend the souldiers, as they should returne from the victory, and in person receive and thank them, and partly if peradventure any thing should arise from the enemyes, that they had made head in any place, hee might bee ready to give order thereto: judge∣ing

it the office of a good Com∣mander, to be the first to get a Horse-back, and the last to light off. Whereupon hee standing exposd to a wind, which ordina∣rily about midday rises upon the Arno, and uses to be pestiferous, hee was all over chill'd. Which thing not being made account of by him, was the occasion of his death: for the night following hee was taken with a dangerous feaver, which continually aug∣menting, and the sicknesse being judg'd mortall by all the Physiti∣ans, and Castruccio perceiving of it, calld Paul Guinigi, and spake to him these words. Had I be∣leev'd, my sonne, that Fortune would have cut off my course in the midst of the way, to arrive unto that glory, which I by my so many good successes had pro∣misd my selfe, I should have lesse wearied my selfe, and to thee as I should have left a smaller estate, so also fewer enemies, and lesse envy: for I would have been

content with the dominion of Lucca and Pisa, and never sub∣du'd the Pistoyeses, nor with so many injuries provoked the Flo∣rentines; but by making the one and the other of these people my freinds, I should have led a life, though not longer, yet surely more quiet; and to thee should I have left an estate, though lesse, without doubt, more secure and firme: but Fortune, who will dis∣pose of all humane affayres, gave mee not so much judgement, that I was able first to know it, or so much time, that I was able to o∣vercome it. Thou hast heard, for many have told thee, and I never denyd it to thee, how I came into thy fathers house being yet a young lad, and voyd of all those hopes, which every gene∣rous spirit ought to conceive, and how I was by him brought up, and belov d by him as much as if I had been of his own blood, whereupon under his government I became valourous, and grew

capable of that fortune, in which thou hast and dost see mee: and because at his death, hee com∣mitted thee and all his fortunes to my fidelity, I have brought thee up with that affection, and increasd them with that fidelity, that I was and am bound to. And because not only whether that alone which was left thee by thy father, but that also which my fortune and valour got, were thine, I never would marry, to the end that the love of children should never take mee off, from shewing in any part that thank∣fullnesse towards thy fathers blood, which I thought I was oblig'd to shew. I leave thee therefore a very faire State, where∣at I am much pleasd: but for that I leave it thee weake and un∣settled, I am exceedingly grieved: there remaines to thee the City of Lucca, which will never be con∣tent to live under thy govern∣ment: Pisa is also thine: wherein there are men naturally incon∣stant,

and full of treachery: which, however it bee divers times accustomed to serve, yet will it alwayes disdaine to have a Lucchese for its Lord. Pistoya likewise is left to thee, very little faithfull to thee, because it is di∣vided, and by fresh injuries pro∣vok'd against our Family. Thou hast the Florentines for thy neigh∣bours, and those offended, and divers wayes injuryed by us, and not extinguisht, to whom the news of my death would be more welcome than the Conquest of all Tuscany. Thou canst not rely upon the Princes of Milan, nor upon the Emperour, because they are far hence, lazy, and very slow with their succours: wherefore thou oughtst not to hope in any thing, but in thy owne industry, and the remembrance of my va∣lour, and in the reputation which this present victory gaines thee: which if thou shalt know with discretion how to make use of, will ayd thee to make an accord

with the Florentines, who being affrighted at this present defeate, ought with desire to condiscend thereto: whom though I sought to make them mine enemies, and thought it would procure mee both power and glory, yet thou art by all meanes to seeke to gaine for thy friends; for their friendship will prove thy security and advantage. It is a thing of very much importance in this world for a man to under∣stand his owne selfe, and to know how to measure the forces of his owne courage and State; and he that finds himselfe unfit for warr, should endeavour to settle his government by the rules of peace, whereunto thou shalt doe well if by my advice thou addresse thy selfe, and strive by this way to enjoy my paines, and dangers, which shall easily prove successe∣full to thee, when thou shalt ac∣count these my advertisements true: and herewithall thou shalt be doubly oblig'd to mee, first

that I have left thee this State, and secondly that I have taught thee how to keepe it. After∣wards having causd those citizens to come to him, who of Lucca, Pisa, and Pistoya, serv'd in the warres under him, and recom∣mended Paul Guinigi to them, and made them to sweare obe∣dience to him, hee dyed; lea∣ving to all those, that ever knew him, a happy remembrancc of him; and to those that had been his friends, so great a desire of him, that never any Prince, that died at any time, left more. His funeralls were most honourably solemnizd, and hee was buried at St. Francesco in Lucca. But nei∣ther valour, nor fortune were so favourable to Paul Guinigi, as to Cas••ruccio; for not long after, hee lost Pistoya, and after Pisa, and with much adoe held hee the government of Lucca: which continued in his Family till Paul the grand-child. Castruccio then was, by what is here shew∣ed,

a man of rare note, not only for those times he lived in, but for many ages that had past long before. He was of a stature higher than ordinary, and his limbs were well answerable each to other, and of such a grace hee was in his aspect, and entertain'd all men with that humanity, that hee never spake with any, that he sent from him discontent; his haire inclin'd to a reddish colour, and he wore it always cut above his eares; and always and in all seasons, whether it rain'd or snew, he went with his head uncover'd; hee was very pleasing to his friends, and terrible to his ene∣mies; just among his subjects, treacherous with forreiners: nor where hee could vanquish by fraud did he ever strive to do it by force: for he said the victory, and not the manner how it was got, gain'd a man glory; no man enter'd more boldly into dangers, nor was more wary to get out of them: and he was wont to say,

that men ought to prove every thing, but to be astonish'd at no∣thing, and that God favours va∣liant men, who alwayes chastises the feeble with the mighty. Hee was also very admirable in re∣plying or biting sharply or gen∣tilely; and as in this kind hee spa∣red not any, so likewise he was nothing mov'd, when himselfe was not spar'd: So that we have many things he said wittily, and heard patiently, as these: Having causd a duck at to bee given for a starling, and a friend of his repro∣ving him for it, said Castruccio, thou wouldst not have given a∣bove a peny for it; and his friend saying it was true, he reply'd, a duck at is lesse to mee. Having a flatterer about him, and in scorne having spat upon him, the flatte∣rer said, that Fishermen to take a little Fish suffer themselves to be all moyl'd in the Sea; I will let my selfe be daub'd by a little spettle, to catch a Whale: which Castruccio not only heard patient∣ly,

but rewarded. When one told him, that he livd too sumptu∣ously; said Castruccio, if this were a vice, there would not bee so splendide entertainments at the Saints Feasts. Passing through a street, and seeing a young man comming out of a whore-house all blushing, because he had been seen by him; he said to him, be not asham'd when thou goest out, but when thou enterst in. A friend of his giving him a knot to loose, that was curiously tyed, said, O foole, dost thou think I will loosen such a thing, which being tyed gives me so much trouble? Castruccio saying to one that profest him∣selfe a Philosopher, you are of the condition of dogs, that always go about those who can best give them meat; no says the party, we are like Physitians, who visit their houses that have most need of them. Going from Pisa to Li∣gorne by water, and a dangerous storme there arising, and there∣upon being much perplex'd, was

reprehended by one of his compa∣ny as pusillanimous, saying him∣selfe was not afraid of any thing; to whom Castruccio reply'd, that he nothing marvayl'd thereat, for every one valu'd his life, accor∣ding to its worth. Being ask'd by one, what he should do to gaine a good esteeme? answered him; see when thou goest to a Feast, that a blocke sit not upon a blocke. When one boasted that hee had read many things; said Castruc∣cio, it were better thou couldst brag thou hadst remembred much. Another bragging though he had tippled much, he was not drunk; reply'd, an Oxe does the same. Castruccio kept a young lasse, which he lay with ordinari∣ly, and thereupon being reprov'd by a friend, telling him, that it was a great wrong to him that he had suffer'd himselfe to bee so taken by a Wench; thou art mi∣staken, quoth Castruccio, I took her, not she me. Also when one blam'd him that he was too de∣licious

in his dyet; hee said to him, I warrant thou wouldst not spend herein so much as I doe; that is true quoth the other; then reply'd he, thou art more cove∣tous, than I am gluttonous. Being invited to supper by Tadeo Ber∣nardi a Lucchese, a rich and magnificent citizen; and in the house Tadeo shewing him a chamber all furnish'd with cloth of gold, and that it was all pav'd with curious stones, which were diversly wrought with sundry colours, and represented flowers, leaves, and such like green things: Castruccio having got together a great deale of spettle in his mouth, spat it full in Tadeos face; at which he shewing himselfe much trou∣bled, says Castruccio, I knew not where to spet that I might offend thee lesse. Being ask'd how Caesar dy'd? saith he, would to God I might dye like him. Being one night in a house of one of his Gentlemen, where there were divers Ladyes invited to a feast,

and hee dancing, and sporting with them, more than befitted his condition, was reprovd by a friend, answered, he that is held a wise man in the day time, will ne∣ver be thought a foole in the night. One comming to aske a favour at his hands, and Castruc∣cio seeming as if he heard not, fell down upon his knees before him, whereat Castruccio chiding him, he answered, thou art the cause thereof, who carryest thine eares in thy feet: and thereby he gaind double the favour he asked. He used to say, that the way to Hell was easie, because men went thi∣ther downwards, and blindfold. When one askd him a favour with many and superfluous words, Castruccio said to him, hereafter when thou wouldst any thing with me, send another. Such another man having wea∣ried him with a tedious speech, and telling him in the latter end, perhaps I may have tir'd you with my long speaking; no, thou

hast not, said he, for I heard not one word of all that thou hast spoken. He was wont to say of one, who had been a handsome boy, and afterwards became a comely man, that he was too in∣jurious, having first distracted the husbands from their wives, and afterwards the wives from their husbands. To an envious man that laughd, he said, laughst thou because thou art well, or because another suffers evill? When he was also under the rule of Master Francis Guinigi, one of his play-fellows, saying to him, what wilt thou that I shall give thee, for a blow on the mouth? Castruccio answered him, a Helmet. Having causd a citizen of Lucca to dye, who had helpd him in his rising to his greatnesse, when it was said to him, he had ill done to put to death one of his old friends; he reply'd, you are deceivd, I have put to death a new enemy. Ca∣struccio commended much those that betrothd wives, but never

married them, like men that say they will go to Sea, but never do. He said he wondred much at men, that when they bought any ves∣sell of earth or glasse, they sound it first whether it be good; but in taking a wife they are content only to see her. When hee was neare death, one asking him, how he would be buried? he answered, with my face downwards: for I know, that as soon as I am dead, this Country shall go upside down. Being asked, whether he never thought to become a Fryer to save his Soule? he said no, for it was strange to him, that Laza∣rus should go to Paradise, and Ʋguccion of Faggivola to Hell. Being asked, when it was best to eate, to preserve the health? he answered, if a man be rich, when hee is hungry; if hee be poore, when he may. Seeing a gentle∣man a friend of his, that made his servant trusse his points, hee said, I hope one day too thou wilt make him feed thee. Seeing

that one had written upon his house in Latine, God keep the wicked hence; said, the master then must not enter here. Pas∣sing by a way where there was a little house with a great gate, he said, this house will run out of doores. Treating with an Am∣bassadour of the King of Naples touching some goods of the bor∣derers, whereat he was somewhat angry, when the Ambassadour said, feare you not the King then? Castruccio said, is this your King good or bad? and he answering that he was good, Castruccio re∣ply'd, wherefore then should I be afraid of those that are good? We might relate many others of his sayings, wherein he shewd both acutenesse of wit, and gra∣vity; but these shall suffice in te∣stimony of his worthy qualities. He liv'd forty foure yeares, and behavd himselfe like a Prince in all his fortunes: and as of his good fortunes there are enough monuments left, so likewise

would he there should be seene some of his evill fortunes; for the manacles wherewith hee was chain'd in prison, are yet to bee seene fastned in the tower of his dwelling house, where they were put by him, that they might beare witnesse of his adversity. And because hee was no way inferiour to Philip of Mace∣don, Alexanders father; nor to Scipio of Rome: hee dy'd in the same age they two did; and doubtlesse hee would have ex∣ceeded the one and the other, if in exchange of Lucca hee had had Macedon, or Rome for his Countrey.

FINIS.