A new survey of the Turkish empire, history and government compleated being an exact and absolute discovery of what is worthy of knowledge or any way satisfactory to curiosity in that mighty nation : with several brass pieces lively expressing the most eminent personages concerned in this subject.

CHAP. VIII. The common Customs and Manners of the Turks.

THe Fabricks of their Churches are suffici∣ently large and sumptuous, and called by the name of Meschites: in which I never could perceive any sort of fancies or imageries (for Idolatry is held by them the worst of abomina∣tions) but only these, or one of these inscri∣ptions following, in the Arabick Language, There is no God but one, and Mahomet his Pro∣phet; or, One Creator and Prophets equal: or, None is strong as God. Then there is seen a great abundance of burning Lamps, the whole Church whited, the Pavement covered with Mattresses, and on them the Ornaments of Tapestries. Near the Church, is erected a Tower of great height, to the top whereof the Priest ascends before the time of Prayers, and with a loud voice, his earr stopped with his fingers, he thrice pro-proclaims these words; God, True, One: which Clamour or Out-cry (for they have no Bells) being heard, the Nobility, and all unbusied persons, repair to Church, as bound to that de∣votion. Afterwards the said Priest descending, prayes with them; (and then they turn their faces towards Mecca:) And this he is tyed to do by his Office, five times day and night. But whosoever cometh to these Prayers, must wash his hands, his feet and privities, and his head thrice sprinkled with water: and these words

pronounced, Glory to my God; Then, their shooes put off, and left at the Church-door, they enter in, some bare-footed, others having new shooes or socks, and so tenderly touch the ground. Women come not into Churches, as being not excis'd, and for fear of disturbing mens devotions, but meet apart in severed pla∣ces, altogether shut off from eyes and ears of men; and more seldom frequent their Chur∣ches, except in time of Passeover or Easter, and on Fridays; which dayes from Mahomets Tra∣ditions, for distinction and imitation, they al∣most respect as much as Jews their Sabbaths, or Christians the Lords day. They pray from nine a clock at night till twelve; and in their praying, their bodies are ever in great motion and agitation; wherewith they marvellously afflict themselves with loud cryings and fierce ejaculations; so as oftentimes their strengths and spirits failing, they sink unto the ground; and if it happen any of them conceive her self with child, she then assures her self that pregnancy proceeds from the favour of the Holy Spirit; and when delivered, the Infants born are called, Sons, or Souls of the Holy Ghost. This hath been related to me from their Hand-maids; for I, nor ever any man else were ever present at that spe∣ctacle. At mens devotions I have been often present with my Master; whose customs are in manner following: in their prayers they ne're take off (their Turbants) coverings of their heads, but with the tops of their fingers gent∣ly touch them, in token of taking them off;

they fall upon their knees and often kiss the ground: they hold it for great wickedness, to have a Christian present at their mysteries; for they believe their Churches (as they say) to be polluted by men unwashed; and that Chri∣stians use no such Lavatories. Every Church in Turkie hath a peculiar place for Baths and wash∣ings, with lodings for a Priest. Now here the Priest ascends his Pulpit (reads a piece of the Alcoran, and sometimes expounds it) and there preaches about two hours; his Sermon ended, two boys come up to him, who pro∣nounce their prayers singing with responsals; which Songs being ended, the Priest with the whole People in a low voice, beating upon their sides, repeat these words, There is but one God; which for the space of half an hour they do, and so depart. But this manner of prayers and cere∣monies of preaching and singing, are not done every day, unless in time of Lent, Festivals, some Sundays; and most observe the Fridays for religious worship.

They keep their Lent by fasting one month and one week every Year; but not always the same: for if this Year they fast out January, the next they fast out February, and keep on that course; so as in twelve Years space, they dedicate to God (in lieu of tenths) one Year and twelve Weeks. Travellers and sick persons are excused from present fastings; but are en∣joyned to supply it, by fasting so many daies at other times. When they fast, all that Day they taste nothing, not so much as bread or water;

then the Stars appearing, it is lawful for them to eat of all things which are not strangled, or Hogs-flesh, which they esteem as Carrion, most unclean. Their Lent being past, they observe Easter for three days, with great solemnity a∣nointing the nails of their Feet and Fingers with an Oyl which they call Chna, which makes those nails to shine like Gold; and with the same, they sometimes stain or colour the hoofs and tails of Horses. This Tincture holds very long, and can hardly be wiped away: so as until new nails thrust out the old, they still retain that dye; but nails of the hand, by frequent washing, abate in time. Women do not only anoint the nails, but their whole Hands and Feet also with that Oyl.

They Circumcise not on the eighth day as the Jews do, but when the new-born arrive at the age of seven or eight years, and be of perfect speech: the mysterie whereof, is from the words of confession required before Circumcision, which are some of those sentences afore-men∣tioned in their Churches, which they repeat, and give assent thereto, by holding up the Thumb of the right hand. The Youth is not for this mysterie brought unto their Church, but is circumcised in his Parents house. I have been often present at this solemnity, which is performed in manner following: first, the friends are all invited to a feast, sufficiently furnished with all sorts of delicate flesh, lawful for them to eat; and almost every where, especially a∣mongst the wealthier sort, an Or is killed,

bowelled and flayed; in the body whereof, they include a Sheep; and in that Sheep, a Hen; and in her, an Egge; all which are entirely roast∣ed together, for the solemnity and splendor of that day. Then in their Feast and time of Sup∣per, the Boy that is to be circumcised, is brought to a Physitian skilful in that Art, who fixing be∣tween a pair of pinchers the fore-skin of his privie Member, to prevent all fear in the Boy, he telleth him that the next day he will circum∣cise him, and so departs; but presently seigning to have omitted something appertaining to this preparation, on a sudden he cutteth off the fore∣skin, applying thereunto a little salt and bom∣bace; and then he is called a Musselman, that is, one circumcised. Yet their Names are given the day of their Nativity, not Circumcision. After continuance of this Feast for three dayes, the Boy with great pomp and solemnity is ac∣companied to the Baths; and being returned to his House, he is brought before the Guests, and by them presented with gifts prepared for him; some give Silver, Silken Vestments; some Silver Cups; others Money, and sometimes Horse. Women present him likewise, some with Shirts, Handkerchiefs, and such like, ac∣cording to the several pleasures and abilities of the Guests. Women are not circumcised, only they confess the aforesaid words, and so made Musselmen. And if any Christian voluntarily confess a Faith in Mahomet, and suffers circum∣cision, (which often happens by the heavy yoke and burden of their Tribute) this Man is led

through all the Streets and open places of the City, to the great joy and honour of the peo∣ple, with acclamations: him also they present with gifts, and after free him from all Tribute. For covetousness of this profit, many Greeks and Albanes become circumcised. But if any be forced thereto, as he that shall strike or otherwise disgrace a Musselman, or blaspheme Mahomet, (as it befel a certain Grecian Bishop which I did see) that man is circumcised, and hath nothing presented to him, yet shall be freed from Tribute, as others circumcised.

Their great Mufty (as the Pope among Ca∣tholicks) cannot erre, and is the highest Mini∣ster of all Religious and Lay Persons: an Officer of great power and trust: his conclusions and sentences in State and Church-affairs, are irre∣vocable; and his person held in most esteem and reverence next the Emperour: his habit most in green, being Mahomets colour. There is small difference between their other Priests and Lay∣men, nor much from the Governours of Cere∣monies (such as our Bishops are) neither is much learning required from them: it is suffi∣cient if they can read the ALCORAN and Musaph; yet they that can interpret on the Text, are esteemed most Learned, because the Traditions of Mahomet are written in the Ara∣bick, not vulgar Turkish Character; and they hold it most detestable, to have them in∣terpreted in the vulgar Language. These Priests and Governous are elected by the People; but their rewards and stipends for their labours, are

paid by the King. They have Wives, and Ha∣bits like Seculars: and if their stipends be not sufficient to mantain the number of their Chil∣dren, they otherwise supply themselves by Han∣dicrafts & Trades, or what else befits a free-man; as teaching Schools, transcribing Books, &c. I ne'er could see amongst them any Printers; but Paper is there very well made. Some make pro∣fit one way, some an other, as Taylors, Shooe-makers, &c.

They have likewise Monks of several Orders; but chiefly of these three: the first have no pro∣priety in any thing; they go almost wholly na∣ked, saving their privities covered with a Sheeps skin, and in cold weather they use the like to cover their backs, their sides, their feet and hands are never covered. They beg alms as well of Christians as Turks; and, For God's sake. These Monks having eaten an Herb called Maslach, are possest with a kind of fury and madness; they cut and wound their breasts cross and overthwart, and so their arms, dissembling all trouble or pain; then clap on their heads, hands and breasts, the spunge or mushrooms of old Trees light burning, and not remove them till they are reduced to ashes. Another Order I have seen, who go with their privy part bor'd thorow, and a Ring included therein of the weight of three pound; and this to preserve chastity. The third Order is rarely seen abroad; but remain both day and night in Churches, where within some little Angles they have small Cabins, no shooes, vestments, or coverings of

the had, wearing nothing but one shirt: their exercise is fasting and prayers, that God would reveal things future to them. With this sort of Monks, the King of Turks usually consults, when he intends a motion on expedition to War.

They give so much respect to Mahomets Tra∣ditions and Statutes, that not onely they never blaspheme God or his Prophet; (which amongst us sometimes happens) but if they find the least leaf or scrowl thereof, lying on the ground, they take it up and often kiss it, and place it on some shelves or chinks of walls; affirming it a sin, to suffer that wherein the Name of God, and Laws of Mahomet are written, to be trod∣den under foot. And no man dares to sell the Alcoran, and other writings of their Law, to any Christian, or any other differing in Religi∣on or Faith with them, lest they should be trod∣den on, or touched with unclean hands: and whosoever should so do, is severely punished. And in this regard they may be stiled far more reverent then Christians.

They have places for Instruction, and Teach∣ers both of Men and Women: in several Towns, Men the Boys, and Women the Girls, some teach Astronomy, Physick; and some the Art of Poetry; which when they do, they speak out with loud voice; and moving their hands unto their sides, they pronounce their meanings. They understand no artificial Musick, but frame Verses to certain Rules, which consist of ele∣ven syllables. The hotness of the Clymate, and

often sicknesses, makes most inclined to Phy∣sick, wherein they have some small knowledge. They learn Astronomy, to be thought able to tell fortunes. Printing is supplied by a number of writing Priests: and perhaps neglected (as all learning is) to maintain the peoples ignorance, and keep them off from search into the gross ab∣surdities of their constrained Religion.

They marry without Vows or Oaths, take Wives without portions, and for the most part buy them, contrary to the Roman custom, where the Son in-law was bought with Money to take a Daughter. This married Woman car∣ries nothing with her for use or ornament, which she is not forced to redeem or purchase from her Parents. Evil manners or sterility, are causes of Divorces: for which there is a peculiar Judge. They permit their bond-men or pur∣chased servants to marry; but the issue of them are all born slaves. The Alcoran perswadeth marriage as pleasing God and Man; and it al∣lows plurality of Wives and Concubine, as ma∣ny as a Man pleaseth. The Turk amongst his (whereof he hath above five hundred in his Se∣raglio's) nameth her for his Wife or Sultana, by whom he hath his first-begotten Son. All their Wives are used with equality of respect, in diet, cloaths, returns, and what concerns them; and are most obedient to their Husbands. They nurse their own Children, and bear them on their Shoulders, not in their Arms: no men, but Eunuchs are suffered to be with them, not their own Sons, if above twelve years of age:

they never go abroad, but accompanied with onely Women.

Pilgrims of several Nations travel to visit ho∣ly places, which the Turk possesseth; as Mecca and Medinum, (as Christians, Jerusalem) where they say Mahomet was buried: but this is done as well for gain and profit, as for devo∣tion or Religions sake. And there having seen a gilded Shoo hanging from the roof of the Church, and bought such fine linnen and cloth as they please, they return home with great ad∣vantage; some carrying about the streets wa∣ter, from thence in glases for devotion sake, and freely give it to any that are thirsty; others do the like for profit. And if any one of them hap∣pen to die in this Pilgrimage; by what occasion soever, although he ne're arrive near Mecca, yet he hath the estimation, and shall be placed in the rank of Pilgrims.

I know not whether I should call them Mira∣cles, or rather Monstrous Toys, written in their Book called Mehemidine, wherein they are per∣swaded, that when Mecca was a building, God by the prayers of Mahomet, commanded divers mountains to bring their stone to the Fabrick of that Church, every Hill his tenth: and when divers Mountains had brought their portions, and Mecea built and perfectly compleated, a cer∣tain Hill called Araphat, and some other more remote, coming thither with their tenths some∣what too late, and finding Mecca built, and no use of their stones, they begun most bitterly to weep; which when Mahomet perceived Hills so

distressed, and understood the cause, he said un∣to them, Be of good chear, weep not, but store your tenths up in a place which I shall shew you; and whosoever shall not pray upon your stones, his pil∣grimage shall be unprofitable and unaccepted. And after so doing, Mahomet struck the stones with his foot, and there issued out Water, not useful to drink; and imposed a name, and called it, A Water of Purification, whereof every Pilgrim carrieth at his return, some portions thereof in vessels; and when ever any die, the vestures wherewith the body is to be covered, are sprink∣led with this water, for remission of their sins. And they further affirm, That no man can come to Mecca, whose visit is not known to Maho∣met, who reveals the persons to the Keepers there (all Eunuchs:) and if a Pilgrim come, a Ravisher, or wicked Man, a Christian or any of Religion different from theirs; these said Keepers forbid him entrance into Mecca. But the body of Mahomet is not there, as some affirm, but onely an imaginary form in the Wall of the Church, expressing the lineament of a body, which is often kissed; and so they return home again. Such lying follies, for miracles, these Infidels are possessed with, concerning Mahomet; and divers others, so ridiculous, as I omit for modesties sake: yet must advise the Reader, if he please, to interrogate any Turk therein, and he will finde I have spoke nothing but meer Truth.

The Alcoran obligeth men to Alms, as meri∣torious, and much pleasing God; and saith,

The contrary comes from the Devil. They have Hospitals for poor travellers, built by the Wills and Legacies of their Kings; where they have meat in different manners: some allow Rice with flesh, others prepare Wheat-bread, and water to drink; but for rest or lodgings, there is no place allowed: yet there are some few publick recepta∣cles, where they are received without charge, or other bedding then straw or hay; but they repose under a good roof.

Their offerings or oblations are for the most part upon promise or vows, in sicknesses or other dangers; and then they kill an Ox or a Sheep, ac∣cording to their abilities, and promise to sacri∣fice it in some certain place. This Offering is not burnt, or placed on an Altar, after the custom of the Jews; but the Beast being killed, the skin, head & feet, and a fourth part of the flesh, is given to the Priest; another part, to the poor; a third, to neighbours; and the remainder they keep for themselves and friends to rejoyce withal. Neither are they tyed to perform these vows, unless they escape the disease or danger for which they in∣tended them: all things with them being con∣ditional; I give you, if you give me. And the like is observed by the Greeks, Armenians, and other Asiatick people, even of the Christian Faith.

If any of their Musselmen make a Will, their Legacies are given before Friends or Neighbors; and they are commonly for cutting Water-cour∣ses, for conveying Springs from some remote places to Hospitals, Churches, or dry habitati∣ons; and that for Piety sake, & their souls benefit.

Others give money to free bond-men out of thraldom. But women for the most part (as most superstitious) bequeath their gifts to Souldiers, for a certain slaughter of Christians, which they conceive to be greatly beneficial for their souls. The Legacies of their Kings are for the building of Hospitals, Churches; and so likewise are those of eminent and great personages.

When any of their Musselmen die, men take the Funeral-care of men, and women of women. They wash the departed body very clean, & wrap it in fine linnen; then they carry it out of Town, into some remote place, (for they hold it sinful to bury in their Churches.) First, Friends of the de∣ceased & Priests meet and go in progress, certain Monks bearing Wax-candles; then follow some of their Priests singing till they come to the grave, shaking their heads, & often turning round, fall down with giddiness, as in a trance. The bet∣ter sort have their graves lined with boards at bottom and at sides, and covered with boards, on which they throw the Earth, & strow sometimes the seeds of flowers thereon. Great men & Bassa's have peculiar Chappels for themselves and Kin∣dred. The poor are buried by high-ways, or in open fields. If the deceased be of poor ability, there is then money gathered for satisfaction of labour for those religious men, which is offered in the streets.

Over this stately Tomb, (being Prince-like) there is erected a goodly Temple, wherein their Kings are buried in the City with great magnifi∣cence. Both rich and meaner have an Altar built of

such an height, as beasts cannot annoy or pollute it with any foulness: thither with lamentations and weepings they often return; and spread up∣on the monument sacrifices of meats, bread, flesh, cheese, eggs, milk. This Solemnity or Fu∣neral-supper continues for nine dayes after the parties burial, (according to the Heathen man∣ner) for the soul of the departed: and it is left to be eaten by the Poor, by Ants, or Fowls of the Air. They say, It equally pleaseth God, to give Alms to Beasts that wants, as men, when they are given for Gods sake. I have seen many buy Birds in cages at good values, only to set them at li∣berty, and see them flie away, others, throw Bread into Rivers for Fishes, and that for the love of God, saying, That such charity towards the needy, doth obtain a great reward from Heaven.

The Turks have all one Emperor or King, of the Race of Ottoman; who hath next to him∣self in Authority two Sanjacks or Vice-roys, chief Governors, the one of Europe, the other of Asia; and these have under them Lieutenants of lesser quality, who command the ordinary Souldiery; and if they fail, being called to any expedition, are presently punished with death. He hath others alwayes following him, as Coun∣cellors, Guardians of his body, ever neer him; Chamberlains, Chancellors, and Exactors of Tri∣bute, for monies and young people, with certain numbers of light-horse, Messengers, and divers others that continually follow the Court. His greatest strength is in his flaves; Children (for the most part) torn from Christian Parents,

with Tribute-Children, bred and educated in several Seraglio's, Captives taken in War, and Renegado's. Of these, some are trained up, and serve on Horse; who have a double stipend to the foot, and always ready at command, in stables keeping four hundred Horse together. The great body of Foot-Souldiery are the Jani∣zaries, all commanded by a Chief, called their Aga, a person of mighty trust, and like im∣portance; who hath under him diverse inferior Commanders, and have Seraglio's apart. Of these, and Auxiliary Forces, the Turk can draw three hundred thousand into the field. A great part of these Janizaries attend the Court, Ambassadors Houses, and protect all Christian Inhabitants and Travellers, for re∣wards; and are faithful in those employments. Their Standard in the field, is an Horse-tail tied upon a Pole; an Emblem of their first barbarity and rudeness. His strength at Sea is not conside∣rable, consisting most in Gallies, and those not equal to some Italian Princes: nor hath he many for want of slaves whom he imploys more for Land-services. The best of Shipping, is under the Bassa's of Algier and Tunis, whom he manageth with much policy; sometimes as Re∣bels, and sometimes as good Subjects, to his best advantage against Christians: for if they complain of loss, the Turk then says, He can∣not rule them. If the other do the like, he'l take treble damages.

There is not any of those great personages that possess by right of inheritance any Pro∣vince,

City or real estate, to derive unto his chil∣dren or successors, without consent of the King. If any of their Dukes or Princes desire possessi∣ons, it must be with this condition; the value of the place or Territory is first considered, and the revenues thereof, whereby the Turk apportion∣eth what number of Souldiers that can anually maintain: then the Lord is injoyned always to keep in readiness that number, for any his com∣mands; and in default his head is lost: nothing can excuse his presence in any commanded place, but known want of health & sickness. And when∣soever it please the Turk to ease him of this be∣nefit, it's at his liberty; but if not deprived, he enjoys it during life: after death, if his Succes∣sors will observe the same conditions, they are often admited; if not, 'tis then disposed to others. And if it happen any one of these great ones have occasion to speak unto their King, it is with eys fixed on the ground, they dare not look him in the face.

These for the most part are all Eunuchs, ca∣strated when youths, and bred in Seraglio's, for attendants on the Turkish Concubines: and of later years, some of them (as I was informed, be∣ing a slave to a great man in Constantinople) are cut so close the body, that they often dye by the incision; and if live, they ever after use small Pipes for discharging their water: such is their cruel jealousie, introduced (as 'twas said) by an Emperor that perceived a Gelding leap a Mare; these Bassa's are of greatest esteem with the Turk, next to the Sanjacks; and they are almost all that

are preferred to that dignity, children of Chri∣stian parents, violently taken from them: & none of them, although he hath to wife a daughter of a Turk, (as Hurstan Bassa had) can enjoy a Parish, Castle, or Village by inheritance; but if he be pro∣moted to any dignity or possessions, he enjoys it till his death, or so long as the Turk pleaseth. Each Bassa hath a Court of Justice in the pro∣vince he commandeth, from whence appeals are to the King, or great Mufty; whose sentence is concluding and immoveable.

None of their Janizaries or great Captains have licence to wear Swords or other Arms within the Cities, unless the King go forth his Palace, for Devotion sake or Hunting. And where there are Magistrates or Governours of Towns, Porters carry with them staves or Clubs: & find∣ing any quarrellings or offerings at injuries, they presently punish them with those instruments; No man speaks to them, or dares look in their faces; but falling on the earth, kiss their feet, with eys to the ground, & speak as to themselves. And whensoever they send forth messengers with let∣ters to Governours, cities, or provinces, whose horse grows faint by journeying, this messenger hath fall authority to dis-horse whom ere he meets; and meeting none, he turns into the next town or village, & repairs to the chief Officer; & if he presently provides him not an horse, he's hang'd before his door: and for this cause, many make use of Asses, rather then horses. And when this messenger shal come to whom he was sent, he is most honourably received, his Letters kissed

with great humility, and their contents answe∣red with incredible celerity and quick dispatch. No Princes dare contradict one sillable therein. None dare (as here) rebel; all men live in such awful fear and trembling: Tortures and present death depending on his will.

The Emperor distributes in some equality all Provinces to his Noblemen; but with conditi∣on, that such a Souldiery should be continually maintained by him with the Revenues of that Province, both in time of Peace and War. A Souldier killed is not loss to him, unless the Province likewise be lost, as for example, the Turk hath now four hundred Souldiers, where∣of one hundred is maintained by Hungary; now if he lose Hungary those Souldiers are lost: if he lose no Province, he loseth nothing; for he can raise more in their rooms; as Church-Offi∣cers, or Benefices, easily find in vacancies Suc∣cessors.

These are stout Souldiers, and excellently versed in military affairs, who in their first en∣counters break their Lances, without other Armour then a Sword, Lance and Target, using it as we do with Coat of Fence and Helmet; the Lance being broke they use the Sword, and fight valiantly, always aiming at the head or hands, and think it ignominious to thrust at their ad∣versary, or an horse with point of Sword. These men spend all their lives and hopes under the protection of a Goddess, Fortune; having a Proverb with them, What is written will be∣fall them; that is, What that Goddess hath

printed on the head at each mans nativity, can∣not be possibly avoided, though he were pre∣served in a Castle unexpugnable. The actions of these men are writ in verses, and sung by all men; that others stirred up by like praise and honour, might with like audacity, advance against an enemy, couragiously and valiantly: and for each victory of these men their stipends are doubled; and are obliged attendance on their King, on horse-back, with Lances, Swords, and Iron Clubs: some have Tar∣gets, some none, and are paid as well in Peace as War.

Their first are Bowmen, with Arrows, Bows and Javelins; they are distinguished from Jani∣zaries by coverings of the head. The second is of Janizaries, who instead of Bows have Guns, with short Hatchets: all these are gathered from amongst Christians living under Tribute, by force snatched from their Friends, being young, Circumcised, and educated as afore∣said. These fight most valiantly against Chri∣stians, yet have but slender stipends for their maintenance; some four, five or six Aspers a day; of which sixty make a Crown English. And these are prohibited on pain of death to come on horse-back, unless sick. There are some few likewise Sons of Turks, made Janizaries. There is a third Order, whom they call Aza∣plars, whose stipends determine with the War, and are all Sons of Turks. These use a longer Lance, with Swords, and red Hats or Bon∣nets, or other coloured cloth, with crooked

Angles like half Moons; and so distinguished by Arms and Habit, from the other orders, There is a fourth of the Grecian Sect, who have no other stipend, then freedom from paying Tri∣butes and Tenths. They commonly attend the Turks horse of pleasure, keeping them at their own charge, and well managing them for War.

When the King removes from Constantinople, to any Expedition of War, he carrieth with him double Tents, that when one is planted this day, the other is carried to the next station, ready to receive him the day following: the number and magnitude of these Pavilions is such, that afar off they seem no less then Cities: round about the King's Pavilion, are the Tents of Princes and great Men, encompassing his in circle. Then the horse-men of Arms, two or three together, have their Tent: the foot-men have the like for disci∣pline sake, and to keep them from cold Air. When the body of the Army moves, Yeomen foot-men clear the ways, and here and there make heaps of stone, or piles of wood, for ease and di∣rection of the passage; so as even in darkness of the night they can hardly erre. The Army mo∣veth at midnight, and till mid-day following marcheth. The King rides between two Bassa's talking with him, before whom marcheth some of the order of Janizaries on horse-back, bear∣ing lighted Candles in time of night. Certain Captains follow them with iron Clubs round pointed, who keep off men from sight of the King a good large distance: amongst these, are numbers of the King's Guard; and amongst them,

a Chariot of Women and Boys, fitted for the use of the Turk and his Nobility. These great Men, go some before, some follow these Cap∣tains with great multitudes of Souldiers, horse and foot, and all conditions; some for stipend, some for plunder; but all, men.

Then follow a multitude of Camels, Mules, Horse, and sometime Elephants, laden with Vi∣ctuals, Pavilions, and all necessaries for military uses; and where the Turk pitcheth his Tent, there every one, according to his condition, (as in a City) sets up his habitation; Booths for Taylors, Bakers, Butchers, Sutlers, and all sorts of Victuallers: some sell dainty flesh and fowls; and when fresh meat cannot be had, then what is brought upon their Beasts, they expose to sale; bisket, dry meats, cheese, curds and milk. All Turks are generally most patient in suffering hunger, thirst and cold. They seldom lodge in Towns, but field it in their Tents, neer water-springs, Rivers or Meadows, taking more care of their cattel then themselves; content with little and course diet, curds mingled with wa∣ter, bread with milk, sometimes bisket: ma∣ster and servant eat together. They keep deep silence in the night; they neglect stirring after fugitives, for fear of raising clamours; which are forbid upon great mulcts and punish∣ments: but when they go to rest, or rise to march, all with an unanimous noise, cry out, Allah, Allah, Allahu, that is, O God, thrice re∣peated.

There is so much severity in military Disci∣pline, that no Souldier dares unjustly seize on any thing of anothers; for if he do, he dies without mercy. They have amongst them certain Guardians, Defenders of all Passengers from Souldiers violence, with boys of eight or ten years old, carrying bread, eggs, fruit and Oats, and such like things to sell. These Guar∣dians are bound to free and preserve all Orch∣ards, Gardens, Closes they pass by; so far, that they themselves dare not touch an Apple, Pear, or Grape, or any such like thing, with∣out the owners license; otherwise they lose their heads. When I was present in the Turkish Army in an Expedition against the Persian, I saw a great Commanders head, with Horse and Ser∣vants, all three cut off, because that horse had been found grazing in another mans pasture un∣satisfied for.

When a Conquest is declared, the Cities straight throw themselves into all delights and joyings. At entrance of night, for good auspice of the solemnity, Torches, Wax-candles, Lamps, Fire-brands, Fire-works, and all things that give light, are every where disposed of throughout the City; with Carpets, costly Hangings, Tapestry, and Silken, Silver, and Gold Vestments, their houses all are covered, but especially that way by which the Emperor entreth. The chiefest Triumph is made in Con∣stantinople, his constant residence, unless oc∣casioned by War into some other Region. And he is bound by Law at every three years end,

to undertake some Expedition into Christian Territories, for advancing or defending his own Kingdom. I verily believe, and do confess, for those days he celebrates for Victory, no mortal eye, (nay, not the Moon or Sun) did ere behold a spectacle more glorious and re∣splendent, for order, number, silence, richness, state and magnificence in all kinds. It is impossi∣ble for onely man to be exalted to a loftier degree of sublimation, then this Pagan when triumphful.

No Nation under the Sun delights so much in Hunting as doth the Turkish; they'l follow game through rocky, steepy, craggy moun∣tains, and that on horse-back, taking diversity of Beasts; but if any chance to be killed, or suffocated by Dogs or chase, they never eat thereof, nor any Christian that lives in those Regions: and if they kill wild Boars, they give them to the next inhabiting Christians. Mussel∣men being forbidden to feed on Hogs flesh. The Turk hath multitudes of Faulkoners (above thousands) in constant wages through his Em∣pire. Their Hawks both long and short wing'd very hardy. The like charge he's at for all sorts of Dogs: nothing can move in the Air, or stir on Land that shall not be encountered, and seized on. These charges, with the Souldiery, Officers, Seraglio's, and Court-attendances, are in a manner infinite; and yet supplied more by casualities then Revenues constant: for he com∣mands all mens fortunes at his pleasure, & is the general heir of all that by nature die, or violence.

The Country people with their Servants plow their Lands, and pay the Tenths of all encrease unto the King. Artificers maintain themselves by Trades; who live in idleness, consume in hunger. They eagerly pursue all sorts of Merchandizings; travelling the lesser Asia, Arabia, Egypt, & States of the Venetians. They have their baths in every City, where in solemn manner they wash them∣selves. When they make water, they wash that part; and the like, when they ease their bodies. The like is done by Women, who have hand∣maids following them, with vessels filled with water & when they bath, they anoint themselves with such an unguent, that within the space of half an hour, rots off all hair from parts anointed. Men and Women do the same, not suffering hair to in∣crease: and this is done twice or thrice each month, especially when they frequent the Church; otherwise, (as violaters of sacred places) they are burnt with fire. They have divers sorts of Artifi∣cers; Taylors, Shoo-makers, Gold and Silver-Smiths, and for all sorts of Metals; Painters, Carpenters, Stone-cutters; but not of such wits and exquisite inventions, as in our parts.

They have one Judge as well of Christians as Turks, (but alwayes chosen from amongst the Musselmen) to administer equal right to all men. If any kill another, he suffereth death: If he steal, or violently taketh from another, he is hanged; as it happened to a Janizary, who drunk milk of a poor Woman's, brought to sell, and paid not for it; and accused before the Judge, denied the fact; whereupon, being stretched up

by cords at his feet, and about his middle, he forthwith vomited the milk, and was immedi∣ately by the Judge commanded to be strangled: this happened in my presence at Damasco, when I travelled from Armenia to Jerusalem. If any commit adultery, the Man is cast into strict pri∣son; yet after divers months may be redeemed: The Woman is carried about the streets riding on an Ass, beaten naked with whips, stones thrown at her, and a Bull's pizzle tyed about her Neck. He that gives a blow, is cut cross the face, and led about the streets for terror. All suits have this good piece of Justice, that right or wrong they last not above three dayes. Their differences are few, because they buy and sell for ready money; their chiefest wealth consist∣ing in it: for few have Lands or Revenues, but who command the Souldery: but generally the Turks Law and Equity is in his Sword, and both oppressed and stifled with Fear and Bribery, two potent and prevailing Agents. To spoyl, to rob, to kill, to murther, upon design of interest, he says, 'Tis Justice; devastation and destruction of whole Provinces and Kingdom, he calleth Peace. And if in ought he advise with Counsel or the great Mufty, 'tis not for substance, but formality of Justice, as well assured from gain∣saying or opposition.

Both Christians and Musselmen Manure and Till their Grounds, Vineyards and Pa∣stures, and have like Fruits and Corn to ours; Wheat, Millet, Barley, Oats, win∣ter Wheat, Pease, Beanes, and also the like

kinds of Pulse, and Rice in abundance; Linnen, and Cotten Wools, more then these Nations; Vineyards like ours; but use their Grapes in indifferent manner: where we make Wine, the Turk hath a kind of Honey with them; so medicining their Grapes, that both in taste and colour they appear always fresh: other Fruits they have in great plenty; Melons, Cucumbers Pumpeons, replenish well their fields and Gar∣dens in their Seasons: Nuts, Pears, Apples, Peaches of all sorts, Apricocks, Chesnuts, Figs, Lemons, Oranges, Cherries, and such-like, at small rates, but not in equal plenty in all Kingdoms: And there are some within the Turks Dominion, as Cappadocia, and lesser Armenia, where in regard of cold, they have no such like Frutages.

They have Shepherds, (whom they call So∣banlars) always living in solitary places, and every month remove their stations: they nei∣ther have possessions or houses, other then their Tents, and Cattle; as Camels, Mules, Horses, Cows, Oxen, Sheep, and Goats; whom they feed, make Cheese and Butter; sheer the Wool, and so make Cloaks, Mantles, and Tapestry, which they sell, and supply there∣by their Families with Corn and necessaries. All these Shepherds pay the King tenths of all anual encrease; and all Christians further pay Tribute, that live under the Turkish Government, for every Male, one Crown yearly; and that which is most cruel, their Sons unmarried are taken for∣cibly from them every fifth year, when their Tenths are visited.

They have no great magnificence of buildings; most of them are of bricks, but differing; some are burned in Furnaces, some dryed by Sun. Their Houses are contiguous, like ours in Europe: but in Natolia, they are flat tabled without elevation; from whence by Gutters, Pipes, and Chanels, Rain-water flows down to them. The houses low; none above two stories, and meanly furnished, if not poorly.

Their Vestments are made of Wool, Flax, and spun Silk, sufficiently magnificent, They use a Garment (which is called Chaucan) straight, full of plates, and of length even to their ancle; abhorring breeches, as too much directing to, and expressing privities. Their shirts or smocks are dyed in colour violet. Their heads are covered with great rolls of Cal∣lico or such like stuff, wound about in fashion of Pyramids; which they call Turbants. Wo∣men of quality go always with their faces veiled; which are never seen of strangers, or in pub∣lique places. Their Shooes are high, with strong soles, for longer service both of men and women. Some say that Mahomet had a bald or scalded head, which he covered with white linnen rolled up, as their Turbants, from thence derived and still continued, for they never alter fashions. They wear long Beards, as tokens of their freedom, all slaves being shaved. No great difference in habit be∣tween rich and poor; but in the stuff. They are religiously cleanly, and never seen to unbur∣den nature, but always after wash.

They use, as we, bread white and course, which they sprinkle with certain seeds before 'tis baked, and yeildeth a great sweetness to the eater; which with us is onely used in Granada, and about Sivilia in Spain. They use much art and sauces in their Cookeries: but ordinary food is Pulse, or Rice, so thickned, that it must be parted with the hands: they feed on all flesh but Hogs. There are no Taverns nor Inns allowed; yet in the streets, divers sorts of Victuals are sold, and all things necessary for mans sustenance.

They have three sorts of Drinks: the first made with Sugar and Honey, mingled with Water: The second of Raisons, the stones taken out, and boyled in water, whereto they add some Rose-water, and a little perfect honey; and this is to be sold in most parts thorow Turkie; for it is sweet, and puffeth up the belly: The third is made of a fruit (called Peckmez) into Must, and hath a kind of Honey-taste and colour with it; this, mingled with water, is given to their Ser∣vants. The Houses where they sell, are fre∣quented as Osteries in Italy, or Taverns with us. Turks for the most part drink only water; they are not suffered to buy or swallow Wines; and who happens to be accused, and proved to have drunken thereof, his testimony, in all occasions and actions is invalid: and yet in pri∣vate Christian houses, they do not abstain.

When they go to dinner, they first strow Mattresses on the floor, and spread upon them Carpets or pillows; some sit on the bare

ground. Their Tables are made of skins, and plaited, to be drawn open more or less, like to a Budget. They neither sit as we do, nor lye along on elbows as the Ancients; but like a Cross of Burgundy, with Legs infolded, they sit Taylor-wise. They always pray before they eat, then eat greedily and hastily, but with deep silence; and in that time their Wives secluded from them. Men servants after twelve years age, are never suffered to co-habitate in houses where women are; but under such age they go about the houses, serving their Masters occasions. Captive Women have never liberty to go abroad, unless their Mistresses or Ladies go to Vineyards, Graves of Friends departed, Baths, or Gardens out of Town (which they often do) for recreation sake; and otherwise are kept strict at work in houses, not suffered to con∣verse with other Captive Servants; as shall be more at large declared in the following Chapter. Their dishes are commonly placed at such di∣stance one over another, as 'twere on Pillars; that each man may make choice of three, which pleaseth best. They eat three times a day; but quick therein, unless at a Feast, where they sit all day.

Notes

• Of their Lent.
• Of their Circumci∣sion.
• Of their Priests.
• Of their Monks.
• Their re∣verence to Maho∣mets tra∣ditions.
• Of their Schools.
• Their marriages
• Of stran∣gers.
• Miracles done by Mahomet at Mecca, which they say he still doth in these times.
• Of their Alms.
• Of their Sacrifice.
• Of their Wills and Legacies.
• Ceremo∣nies of the dead.
• Of the e∣difice of a Sepulchre called Tulbe.
• Concern∣ing War.
• The con∣dition of Noble∣men.
• Of Bassa's, who may be called Counsel∣lors, Chan∣cellors, or Secreta∣ries.
• The obe∣dience of Turks to the King.
• The Turkish strength, how di∣minished.
• The con∣dition of Chazilars.
• The or∣der of their foot
• Of the Turks Pa∣vilions.
• Their car∣riages of Beasts.
• Of justice exercised in War.
• Celebrati∣on of a Turkish Victory.
• Of their Hunting and Haw∣king.
• Of Artifi∣cers and Husband∣men.
• Of Justice among Ci∣tizens.
• Of Hus∣bandry.
• Of diver∣sity of Cattel.
• Of houses.
• Of their Garments.
• Of Viands
• Of their Beverage.
• Of their manner of eating.