Cyrus le Grand the entire story Done into English by a person of quality and dedicated to the late King

THE FIRST BOOKE, TREATING OF THE LIFE AND INSTITVTION OF CYRVS KING OF THE PERSIANS, the first of that name.

The Prooeme:

I Entred sometimes into this serious cogitation: How many Democraties haue been subuerted by those who would needes gouerne the Common-wealth, otherwise than in a popular State. How many also, as well Monarchies as Oligarchies are come already to nought by conspiracies of the Commons. How many persons likewise who attempted as absolute Princes to reigne, were either very soone vtterly ouerthrowne; or else if they ruled any while, held in great admiration, as passing wise men and fortunate. Me thought againe, I had obserued thus much, That whereas in private fa∣milies, some masters haue many seruants in houshold, others very few: yet even those few they could never have wholly at commaund. I considered moreouer, that as the feeders of Neate and Horses, so all others bearing the name of Pastors, may by good right bee reputed the Commaunders of such beasts as they have vnder their hands. But withall, I perceived evidently, that all these Heards are more willing to obey their Pastours, than men their Magistrates. For, the said Heards go whither∣soeuer their Heardmen direct them; and as they gladly graze in those grounds to which they are by them driuen; so they forbeare such, as they debarre them fro. And verily, they suffer their said Pastours to vse at their owne pleasure, those profits that arise from them. Neither have we ever knowne any such Heards to have risen rebelliously against their Pastours, either by way of disobedience, or in denying them the vse of their fruits. Nay rather, more curst and hurtfull are beasts to all others

whomsoever, than to their Rulers and those who receive commodity by them: whereas contrariwise, Men set themselves against none more, than such as they per∣ceiue, goe about to exercise dominion ouer them. When I had well pondered these points in my minde, thus I concluded in the end, That more easie it was for a man to command all other living creatures in the world, than men.

But when I considered eftsoones, How Cyrus a Persian borne, had won exceeding many men, very many Cities, and Nations likewise, to his obedience, I was thereby enforced to change my former opinion, and thus to resolve at the last; That it is nei∣ther impossible, nor yet a matter of difficulty, to governe men, in case one have the skill thereof, and goe about it with dexterity. For why? of this we are assured, that there yeelded obeisance willingly vnto Cyrus, some who were many dayes, others as many moneths iourney, distant from him: those that never saw him, yea and such as knew full well they should never see him: yet nathelesse would they all become his liege men and devoted subiects. And no maruell. For, so farre excelled he all other Kings, as well those that by inheritance succeeded in their Fathers Kingdomes, as those who by their owne conquest attained to their dominions; that whereas the Scythian King, (albeit the Scythians be a State, for number of people most puissant) is not able to command any forraine Nation; but would be well apaid, if he might but rule his owne: The Thracian Prince, likewise the Thracians: and the Illyrian Poten∣tate, the Illyrians: which is the case, as we heare say, of other Countries besides; (For in Europe, the people live by report severally vnder their owne lawes, and remaine hi∣therto, free one from another) Cyrus alone, who found the States of Asia likewise ru∣led by their owne lawes, having with a small Army of Persians, made an invasion, be∣came Soueraigne Lord verily of the Medes, and the Hyrcanians, without resistance, as who willingly raunged themselves vnto him: But the Syrians, Assyrians, Arabi∣ans, Cappadocians, Phrygians both the one sort and the other, the Lydians, Carians, Phoenicians and Babylonians, hee by force of armes subdued. The Bactrians moreo∣uer, the Indians and Cilicians: likewise the Sacans, Paphlagonians, Megadines, and o∣ther nations exceeding many, whose very names a man may hardly rehearse; he re∣duced vnder his Empire. The Greekes also in Asia, he brought to his devotion. And hauing made expeditions and voyages by sea, conquered the Cyprians and Egyptians. Thus atchieved he the Seignorie of the nations, which in language agreed neither with him, nor yet among themselves. And notwithstanding he was able to compasse so great a part of the earth, and that through feare of his prowesse; in so much as he astonished all men, and none durst attempt any thing against him: yet could he withall imprint such an affection in their hearts, with an earnest desire to doe him pleasure, as that they sued alwaies to be ruled according to his will and direction. Furthermore, he had so many sorts of people obliged vnto him, as it were a painefull piece of worke, to number them all: what way soever a man take, from his royall Palace, ei∣ther East, West, North, or South. In which regard, I haue diligently enquired tou∣ching this Prince, as of a man worthy to be admired: and namely, how he was by birth descended? what his naturall disposition was? what manner of education hee had? that he so farre surpassed all men in princely government. Whatsoever there∣fore I have either heard, or otherwise seeme to haue knowne as touching him, I will endeavour to relate.

CHAP. I. The custome of the Persians in government of their Natives. How Cyrus was insti∣tuted during his Child-hood in the discipline of vertue, with other children of his age, in the publike Schooles.

CYrus verily (by report) had for his Father, Cambyses King of the Persians (now was this Cambyses lineally descended from the Persidae, which take their name of Perseus.) And his Mother, all writers agree to have beene, Mandane, the daughter of Astyages King of the Medes. The common speech is, and among the Barbarians rife it is even at this day in every mans mouth, That Cyrus naturally for his outward countenance was very faire and well fauoured, and for the inward endu∣ments of his minde, most courteous, passing studious, and exceeding desirous of ho∣nour: insomuch as for to win praise, he would refuse no paines, but vndergoe all pe∣rils whatsoeuer. Cyrus being thus by nature, endued with rare gifts of the minde, and adorned with beauty of body also, (according as we find in written records:) was trained vp besides, in the lawes of the Persians, Lawes, (to say a truth) which seeme even at the very first to provide for the weale publike. Neither goe they that way to worke, nor begin there, as in many States they doe. For, the most part of other Com∣mon-wealths, permitting every man to bring vp his owne children as he list, and suf∣fering the elder sort themselves to lead what life they will, ordaine afterwards and commaund them [in this wise] Not to steale: Not to rob: To breake into no mans house by violence, nor to strike any person wrongfully: Not to commit Adultery: Not to be disobedient to the Magistrate, and semblably other [Edicts they publish] of like nature. And looke, who transgresseth any of these Ordinances, they impose a penalty vpon him. But the Persian lawes by good foresight take order, that no natiue of theirs should at the first be so affected, as to commit any foule and dishonest fact.

They haue amongst them a common place of free resort (as they tearme it,) where the Kings Palace, with the other stately Courts are erected: from whence, all Mer∣chandizing, al mercate folke with their clamorous noises and trifling fooleries, are dri∣ven into another place; to the end, that the vnruly and base multitude of such as they are, might not be intermingled with the civill order of those, who have had good breeding.

This common Hall situate about the Courts and Edifices afore-said, is diuided into foure quarters. Of which, one is [appointed] for children, another for young men, a third for men of middle age; and the last for such, as by reason of their yeeres be ex∣empt from warre-fare. Now, by order of law, prouided it is; that every of these should present themselves in their owne severall quarters. The children, and they who be at mens estate, by the breake of day: But the elder sort, when they best may and see their times; vnlesse it be vpon certaine set daies, when they must of necessity give attendance. As for the young men, they also lye about the Courts aforesaid with those armes which they are trained with, except such as be married: And these verily are not so much as enquired for, vnlesse they had especiall warning before to wait. Howbeit, for them also to be often absent, is not commendable. For every one of these diuisions, there be 12. Provosts (according as the whole nation of the Persians is diui∣ded into 12. Tribes. Children or boies, are vnder the charge of certaine choise men of the elders, such as are thought fit to make them most vertuous and honest. Over

the young men, are appointed those of middle age, such as seeme sufficient to bring them to best proufe and perfection. The men also of ripe and compleat yeers, have for their overseers those, who are deemed able so to instruct them, as they may per∣forme those things most of all, which are prescribed unto them, and commanded by the Soveraigne Magistrate. The Auncients likewise are not without their Presidents chosen of purpose to rule them, and to give direction, that even they also may execute their duties. And verily, what seuerall functions are appointed for euery age to be employed in, I will declare in particular, that it may the better appeare, how diligent they be, and what course they take, that their Citizens may prooue right honest men.

The boyes then, ordinarily frequenting their Schooles, spend the time in lear∣ning Iustice: and they give it out, that for this purpose, they goe thither: like as with vs they doe, who are to learne their letters. As for their Governours, they bestow the most part of the day, in ministring Iustice among them. For, even these boyes after the manner of men, frame their enditements and actions one against ano∣ther, of Theft, Robbery, Violence, Deceit, Slanderous or reprochfull words, and such like vsuall cases. And whosoeuer be found delinquent in any of these crimes, punished they are. Those also they chastise, whom they take accusing others without iust cause. Moreover, they call iudicially into question that crime, for which, men hate indeed one another most, yet never question any therefore, And that is Ingratitude. And whomsoever they vnderstand able to requite a good turne, and yet short in requitall, him they sharply punish: For this they thinke, That vnthankefull persons, are of all others most negligent likewise in their duty to God, to their parents, to their Coun∣trey also and to their friends. Yea and it seemeth, that vnthankefulnesse is accompa∣nied especially with vnshamefacednesse: And this vice verily is thought to be the head-Mistris that leadeth to all lewdnesse and villany. Moreouer, they teach these boyes temperance: And much furthered are they in learning such moderation, for that they see before their faces, even the Auncients every day, to live right temperate∣ly. Furthermore, they give them precepts to obey their Rulers. In which point also it auaileth much, that they behold the very Elders, passing obedient to the high∣er powers: Semblably, they instruct them to bee spary in their meats and drinks: wherein also they have a great helpe; partly because they have before their eyes the example of the Seniours, who depart not vnto their refection before the Magistrates giue them leaue; and in part, for that the children themselves feed not at home with their mothers, but with their Masters, and when the Provosts doe so appoint: Now they bring with them from home for their standing food, bread: and for their cates beside cresses; And if any of them be athirst; he hath an earthen pot wherewith to clitch vp water out of the running riuer. Furthermore, they learne to shoot and dart. Thus you see, what the boyes practise, vntill they be sixteene or seventeene yeers of age.

After this time, raunged they are among the young men: and these be imployed and doe live in this manner: For ten yeers immediately after their childhood, they lie by night (as is aforesaid) about the Kings Palace and other Courts, as well for the guard of the publike State, as for the exercise of temperance; (For, this age seemeth to have most need of carefull tending and governance) but in the day-time they shew themselves principally to the Magistrates, if haply there be some service to bee done for the Common-wealth. And whensoever need requireth, they all give attendance a∣bout the Palaces and Courts aforesaid. But when the King goeth forth on hunting (and

that doth he often euery moneth) hee leaueth behinde him halfe of this Guard: And they that goe out with him, must have with them, a bow and arrowes with a quiver, a short Falchion in a scabbard, or else a battell-Axe; a light Buckler besides, and two Iauelins: the one to launce afar off, the other to vse if need be, close at hand-fight. Now why they practise hunting in publike; and wherefore the King in person is their Lea∣der, as in time of warre, (for he both hunteth himselfe, and also taketh order that others also should hunt;) the reason is; because this exercise seemeth to bee an exercise that most truly doth resemble warfare. For it inureth them to rise early in the morning, and to endure both heate and cold: it traineth them to travell on foote in their march, yea and to run. Againe, of necessity they must shoot and dart at the wilde beast where∣soeuer he hapneth to encounter them: yea and oftentimes in hunting, their courage can not chuse but be quickned and whetted, namely, when any of these fell beasts shall be presented vnto them. For when the same approacheth neere, strike they must: and withall, in any wise avoid such as violently make head. So that all things considered, there cannot lightly be any feat in warre, which is not seene in this wilde chase. When these goe forth on hunting, they haue for their dinner a larger allowance somewhat, as good reason is, than the Boyes have, howbeit in other respects alike. During the time that they be hunting, dine they may not: and say it fall out so, that they must stay long for the game, or that they will for their pleasure otherwise, continue the chase, and tarry by it still: with this their dinners allowance, they make their supper, and the morrow after, hunt all day vntill supper-time: and so these two dayes they reckon but for one, because they spend but one dayes proportion of food. Which they doe of purpose, to accustome themselues, that if the like occasion should happen in warre, they might bee able to performe the same. And looke what venison they of this age and growth get, that have they for Cates to their bread: but if they speed not, they must take vp with bare Cresses. Now if any man thinke they haue no pleasure in feeding thus, because Cresses be their onely Cates to their bread, and as little in drin∣king, for that they drinke nothing but sheere water, let him remember, how savory is barly meale and dry bread to him that is hungry: and how sweet it is to drink sheere water when a man is dry. As for these companies which remaine at home, among other exercises that they practised when they were boyes, they give themselues to the feate of shooting and darting. In making matches also continually and striuing one to excell another, they spend the time. There be also certain publique games for these masteries; and prizes withall proposed for the winners. And in what Tribe there proue to bee the greatest number, of most skilfull, hardy and trusty persons in this kinde, their Provost not onely for the time being, but hee also who trained them vp in their boyes age, is highly praised and honoured of the people therefore. Moreover, these young men, who tarry at home, the Magistrates still employ, in case there be need of any guard, or of serch for the finding out of malefactors, likewise of heui-and cry for the intercepting or apprehension of theeves: and in one word, about the execution of any service that requireth either maine strength or speedy expedition. Thus much of young men and their imployments.

Now after they haue passed these ten yeeres in this wise, they come to be reckoned men of perfect age: and so for the space of fiue and twenty yeeres from this their youth forward, they spend after this manner: At the first they give attendance as the young men did vpon the Magistrates: what need soeuer the Common-wealth hath, of such service especially, as is to be performed by those that are both for wisdome and know∣ledge and also for courage and strength yet sufficient. And if they must vpon some

occasion goe to the warres, these men who have thus farre proceeded, vse no more ei∣ther bowes and arrowes, or darts and javelins to be launted from them, but such wea∣pons and armour as be called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. i. meet for close fight, to wit, wearing a cuirace for the defence of the brest, & bearing in their left hand, a light Targuate, such as the Persians be portrayed with in their pictures; but in the right hand a sword or Cymi∣ter. And of this ranke consist all the Rulers, except the Preceptors of the boyes abouesaid. Who by the time that they have spent these twenty five yeeres, may well be somewhat above fifty yeeres of age: and therefore then, they be accompted, of their ranke and number, who both indeed are, and also bee called Seni∣ours.

These Auncients goe now no more to warre out of their owne countrey, but re∣maine still at home, imploied in deciding and dispatching of all causes as well pub∣like as priuate. These likewise determine iudicially matters of life and death. They have the election also of all Rulers and Magistrates. And if any one of the younger sort, or of the middle and settled age be slacke in observing the lawes, him whomso∣euer he be, the Tribunes [or Presidents of each Tribe and company] or any other per∣son else that will, doe present. And these Elders when they haue heard the cause, displace the said party: who being thus removed out of his ranke, leadeth all the rest of his life in disgrace and infamy. But to the end that the whole Common-wealth of the Persians, and the forme thereof may more evidently appeare, now will I returne and ascend a little higher: For, by reason of that discourse which hath already beene made, I shall be able to declare the same very briefely.

The Persians are said to be in number about one hundred and twenty thousand: and none of them all by law, vncapable of honourable dignities and Offices of State: Yea, and lawfull it is for all the Persians to send their children to the common schooles of Iustice. Howbeit, they onely doe send, who are able to keepe them otherwise in ease and doing nothing: but such as cannot so doe, never send them thither. And verily, these Children who haue had their Institution by the publike Schoole-masters, may lawfully among the young men passe their youth forward; But such as haue not bin so taught, may not once come amongst them. They also who haue conversed with other young men and performed their parts as the law requireth of them, are allowed to step higher vnto the fellowship of those men that are come to full age; to be parta∣kers also with them in Magistracies and dignities. But such as have not liued and con∣tinued out their time, among the boyes or young persons abovesaid, are never admit∣ted into the society of the middle aged men. Moreouer, as many as have passed their compleat time without blame and reproufe among those of full and perfect yeeres, be promoted vnto the order and degree of the Auncients. And thus are they ordained Seniours, when they have gone through all good and honest functions. And truely this is that forme of policy and government, which as many as vse be reputed simply the best men and most vertuous. And even at this day, there remaineth a testimony, as well of their moderate diet, as also of working out their food. For even yet, a∣mong the Persians, it is held a shamefull thing, either to spit, or snit the nose, or to seeme full of ventosities. Yea and a shame it is for a man to be seene openly to goe any whither abroad, either to make water, or to doe any such requisite businesse of nature. And surely, never were they able thus much to doe, vnlesse they did, not onely, keepe a spare diet, but also by trauell, so spend and consume their excrementitious moy∣sture, as that it might passe and be conueyed some other way. Thus much I thought good to speake of all the Persians in generall. But now will I deliver the noble acts

of Cyrus, for whose sake I have entred into this treatise, beginning even at his very Childhood.

CHAP. II. How Cyrus went into Media with the Queene his mother: where he shewed many tokens of his good nature and pregnant wit, vnto King Astyages: sem∣blably of his temperance and sobriety.

CYrus therefore was trayned vp in this discipline, vntill he came to be twelve yeeres old and somewhat better: by which time it was well seene, that he ex∣celled all his schoole-fellowes, both in quicke apprehension and aptnesse to learne what was put vnto him: and also in performing of euery action handsomely with a grace and manly courage. After which time [King Astyages sent for his daughter [Mandane] and her sonne: as having a great desire to see him, for the re∣port that went, what a goodly and towardly Youth he was. So Mandane went to her father, taking with her Cyrus her sonne. Vnto whom, when she was come, and that with great speed, no sooner knew Cyrus that Astyages was his mothers father, but forthwith (as he was a childe by nature kind and louing to his parents) he saluted and embraced him, as if he had beene one brought vp with him long before, or inwardly acquainted with him of old. And beholding him, how he was set out with painting vnder his eyes, with a set borrowed colour in his face, with a perrucke also or cap of counterfait haire on his head, after the guise of the Medes (for all these deuices are re∣ceiued among them, like as beside these Median fashions, it is the manner with them to weare purple coates and Amices which they call Candyes, as also cheines and car∣kanets about their necks, and bracelets at both hands: whereas the Persians, such as keep at home in their owne countrey, even at this day vse much courser rayment and more slender diet, Cyrus I say, seeing this gay attire and ornaments of his grandfather, and looking wistly vpon him, Mother, quoth he, what a faire grandfather haue I? And when his Mother asked him againe whether of the twaine he thought the good∣lier man, his owne father or this his grandfather? he answered thus, Madame, of all the Persians my father is most fightly: but of the Medes, as many of them as I haue seene, either vpon the way, in the streets, or at their dores, my grandfather here is the goodliest person by farre. Astyages therfore imbracing the childe againe, did put vpon him a beautifull robe, and withall honoured and decked him with costly collars and bracelets. Also, if he rode forth any whither, he would haue Cyrus evermore with him, mounted on horse-backe, with a golden bridle, even as he was wont himselfe to ride. And Cyrus (being a child given much to decent gallantnesse, and no lesse de∣sirous of honour) as he tooke great delight in that rich robe, so he joyed not a little, that he learned the feat of riding. For, in Persia, by reason that it is hard for want of forage to keepe horses, and to ride there, because the country is full of mountaines, seldome might a man so much as see an horse. Now Astyages being vpon a time at supper with his daughter and [little nephew] Cyrus, minding also that the childe should sup with greatest pleasure and contentment, to the end that he might the lesse long after home, did set before him sundry platters full of the daintiest cates and vi∣ands of all sorts, and the same served vp with the most exquisite Sauces that could be deuised. Then Cyrus, as they say, spake in this wise, Grandsire, what trouble doe you put your selfe vnto at supper, if you must reach with your hand to euery dish

here, and taste of so many and sundry meates? why? quoth Astyages againe, Is not this, thinkest thou, a finer supper by many degrees than that in Persia? No verily Good Sir answered Cyrus, considering we goe a more plaine and direct way to satisfie our selues than yee do: For, bread and flesh onely bring vs straight thither; whereas yee, shooting at the same marke that we doe, after much wandring vp and downe, and fetching many a compasse and winding cranke, hardly and with much adoe at length, arriue vnto that, whereto we attained long before. But we my childe, quoth Astya∣ges, thinke it no paine thus to raunge and goe about, onely doe but taste, and thou al∣so shalt know, quoth he, how toothsome and savoury these cates are? Yea, but me thinkes, quoth Cyrus, that even your selfe, grandsire, doe loath these deinties. Then Astyages, whereby speakest thou so, my child? and what conjecture leadeth thee there∣to? because saith he, I see, when you have handled bread, that you doe not wipe your hand with any thing: but no sooner touch you any of these viands and sauces, but presently at every morsell, and as you dip therein, you make your hand cleane with a napkin, as if you were much offended, that the same was full of it. Well, my sonne, quoth Astyages, if this be thy conceit; be merry yet and fall to thy flesh-meats, that thou maist returne home a gallant Youth. Which he had no sooner said, but he cau∣sed many kinds of flesh, both wild and tame, to be set before him. Now when Cyrus beheld such store of flesh, Tell me Grandsire quoth he, doe you bestow upon me all this venison and other flesh-meats to doe what I list therewith? yea mary doe I my sonne quoth Astyages, I frankly give them all to thee. Then Cyrus taking to him the said flesh-meats, distributed them all among the servitours that waited on his Grand∣father, saying these or such like words to each one: Take thou this, for that thou teachest me so willingly to ride. Here is for thee, because thou didst bestow on me a dart, for this have I yet by me. To one, I give thee this in regard of thy good service to my Grandfather. And to another, have thou this at my hands, because thou doest honour to my mother. In this manner dealt he, untill he had made an hand of all the flesh which he received. But how is it quoth Astyages, that thou givest nothing to Sacas my Cup-bearer, whom of all others I esteeme most? Now was this Sacas a goodly fellow of person; and besides, in that place of credit and honour, as to admit Suiters vnto the presence of Astyages, and to put backe such as he thought came out of season and not meet to have accesse. But Cyrus (as a child) not smaying at all, nor abashed at the question, readily came upon him againe with a reply, And why Grandfather, quoth he, set you such store by this Sacas? Then Astyages answered mer∣rily in this manner, Seest thou not quoth he, how destly and featly he doth his office? for, the Cup-bearers of these Kings, be very neate and fine in powring in the wine with a singular grace: bearing the Cup also with three fingers so handsomely, that as they deliuer it into the hands of him that shall drinke thereof, hee may receive it with greatest facility. Why? quoth Cyrus, commaund Sacas good Grandfather to put the Cup likewise into my hands, that I also serving you with wine right decently, may if I can, win your grace and favour. Whereupon, Astyages willed him to give the Cup unto Cyrus; which when he had received, he rinsed it as featly as he had seene Sacas doe it; and so with a setled countenance hee brought it to his Grandfather and gave it him so curiously with such a seemely gesture, that he set both his Mother and Astyages a laughing full heartily. And Cyrus himselfe taking up a laughter for com∣pany, ran unto his Grandfather and kissed him, saying withall, Thou art utterly un∣done Sacas, for I am like to thrust thee out of thy honorable place. For, as in other re∣spects I shall powre out wine better than thou, so when I do it, I will not drinke it off,

my selfe. For, these Kings Cup-bearers when they present a cup of wine, powre some of it forth into a taster which they hold in their left hand, and so take the assay and drink it off, to the end that if they had conveyed poyson into the Cup, they might not escape themselves without a mischiefe. Hereupon Astyages, min∣ding to make some sport with Cyrus, And why, quoth he, unto him, dost thou imitate Sacas in all points else, but drankest not the wine as he did? Because, said he, I feared that poyson was mixed therewith in the goblet. For, when upon your birth-day you feasted your friends, I perceived evidently, that he pow∣red forth unto you all, very poyson. And how knewest thou that, quoth he, my Sonne? For-sooth, said Cyrus, because I saw you distempered both in body and minde. For, first, looke what ye forbid us children to doe, that did yee your selves: yee did set up a cry, and howred all at once together: yee fell to sin∣ging, and that very ridiculously, and whom yee heard not to sing at all, ye would not sticke to sweare, that he sung passing well. Moreouer, when every one of you bragged of his owne strength and valour, no sooner rose yee vp to daunce, but (so farre were yee from keeping the measures) that unneth ye were able to stand vpright on your feet. So that yee all forgat your selves, you, that you were a King, and the rest that they were your subjects. And then learned I first, that this which you then did, was that very liberty of free speech, which alloweth every man to speake indifferently his mind. And, to say a truth, your tongues neuer lay still. Why? quoth Astyages then, Tell mee my sonne, when thy father drinketh wine, is hee not drunken otherwhiles? No truly, answered Cyrus. But how doth he order the matter, quoth Astyages, that he continueth sober? Truly, saith Cyrus, he drinketh so, as that hee allayeth his thirst onely: and in so doing, other harme hee feeleth none: For hee hath no Sacas, I trow, Grandfather, to fill him wine. Hereat inferred his mother and said, What is the reason my sonne, that thou art so heauy a friend to Sacas and thus set against him? To tell you troth, said Cyrus, because I hate him in my heart; for, many times when I am desirous to runne unto my Grandfather, this fellow (most lewd and wicked varlet as he is) puts mee backe. But I beseech you good Grandfather, giue mee the command ouer him, but three daies. And after what sort said Astyages, wilt thou exercise thy authoritie vpon him? Stand I will, quoth Cyrus, in the very entry, where he is wont to stand, and when he would come in to dinner, Backe Sirra will I say, There is no ingresse for you yet unto your dinner: My Grandfather is busie in giving audience unto certaine persons. Againe, when he commeth to supper, I will say, Hee is now bathing of him. And if I see, that very faine he would eat, I will tell him that my Grandfather is even then with the Ladies. Thus will I doe untill I have put him off, like as himselfe useth to delude and delay mee, keeping mee backe from accesse to your presence. Such prety sports as these, ministred Cyrus at the table, all supper while. But in the day time, if he perceiued that either his Grandfather, or Vn∣kle by the Mothers side, had a minde to any thing, hard it was for any other to prevent him, in effecting the same: For, exceeding glad was Cyrus to gratifie them, in any service to his power.

CHAP. III. How the Queene Mother Mandane returned into Persia, and Cyrus abode behind in Media: where he gave himselfe much to Horse-manship and feates of Armes: and with his owne hand killed many wild beasts.

NOw when Mandane addressed her selfe to returne unto her husband, Astyages besought her to leave Cyrus with him: But shee made this an∣swer againe, That willing shee was indeed to satisfie her father in all things, howbeit she thought it hard; to leave the childe behind her against his will. Then Astyages directing his speech to Cyrus, my sonne quoth he, if thou wilt tarry here with me: First and formost, for accesse to me, thou shalt not be beholden to Sacas, nor at his appointment: But whensoever thou art disposed to enter into my chamber, it shall be as thou wilt thy selfe: and the oftner that thou shalt repaire unto me, the more thanke will I conn thee. Againe, mine owne horses shall be at thy commaund, yea and others as many as it pleaseth thee to use: And when thou wilt depart, take with thee which of them thou list. Besides, at thy suppers use thine owne diet, and take what course thou wilt unto that which thou thinkest to stand with moderate sobriety. Moreover, I bestow upon thee all wild beasts that now be in my Parke, and others will I get together for thee of all kinds: which, so soone as ever thou hast learned to ride an horse perfectly, thou shalt chace at thy pleasure, and by shooting and darting overthrow, like as tall and mighty men are wont to doe. Furthermore, I will appoint certaine young Gentlemen to bee thy play-feers: And in one word, whatsoeuer thy mind stands to, say but the word to me and thou shalt not faile but have it. After that Astyages had thus said to Cyrus, his mother asked him, whether he would stay or depart? who without any study vpon the point, an∣swered readily, That tarry he would. And being demaunded againe of his mo∣ther, wherefore? This (by report) was his answer: Because, Mother, at home, as I am indeed, so men repute me, of all my companions for shooting and dar∣ting the very best. But here, I know full well, that in riding I come short of all my fellowes: which thing, I would you knew, Mother, how it greeveth me not a little: Now, if you leave mee here behind you, that I may learne the feare of Horse-manship, when I am come among the Persians, I suppose you thinke, I shall soone surpasse them (as good as they are) in foot-man-ship: and if I returne hither unto the Medians, I shall endeavour, being of many good horsemen, the best my selfe and most excellent, to aide my Grandfather in his warres. Then replyed his mother, But how, my sonne, shalt thou learne Iustice here, seeing thy Preceptors be there [in Persia]? Why Mother quoth Cyrus, I am therein per∣fect enough already: And how knowest thou that? said Mandane: Forsooth, quoth Cyrus, because my Schoole-Master, taking me for one very well and throughly seene in Iustice, appointed me to be a Iudge over others: And verily in deciding one time a certaine controversie, I was well beaten, because I gaue not sentence aright: And such a case it was as this. A great boy having a little coat, disrobed another boy, who being but small had a large coat: and when he had so done, put upon that boy his owne coat, and with the others clad himselfe. I therefore sitting as Iudge upon this matter betweene them, gave judgement in this wise,

That for both parties it was better, to have either of them, the garment that fit∣ted them. But my Master did whip me for my labour: saying withall, that if I were made a Iudge in question of that which is meet and fit for any person, I ought to proceed in that sort: But when I am to determine whose coat it is? then I must consider which is the rightfull possession? and whether it be reason for him to enjoy it, who having taken it away by violence, holdeth it so; or ra∣ther for him, who either caused it to be made for himselfe, or else bought it with his owne money? he added moreover and said, That a thing was then just, when it was lawfull: and whatsoever was unlawfull, the same also was to be reputed violent: and finally, hee concluded, that a Iudge ought alwaies to give defini∣tive sentence according to the law. And even so, Mother, I say to you, that in matters of Iustice I am perfect enough and sufficiently practised: but if in any point I be defective, my Grandsire here shall and will teach me and supply my wants. But sonne, quoth she, The same things are not all deemed just by your Grandfather here, which among the Persians be received so. For here in Media, he hath made himselfe the absolute Lord of all that the Medes have: whereas among the Persians, to keep equality is held to be just. Againe, your Father, what prescript rules are ordained in the State, receiveth the same, and is the first himselfe that observeth them: So that, the rule and measure which he goeth by, is not his owne lust and will, but the Law. Take heed therefore my child, that thou be not skourged to death at home, when thou art returned thither, having learned of him here, in stead of Princely government, Lordly tyranny: the very nature and property whereof is this, To thinke it reason for to have and hold more than all others besides. Never feare that, good Mother, quoth Cyrus, The King your father here is very wise and skilfull, that hee can teach one to have lesse rather then covet more. For see you not, how he hath brought even all the Medes to this passe, as to hold lesse than himselfe? Be sure therefore Mother, that your Father will so schoole me, that when he sendeth me away, I shall be instructed as well as all the rest, not to covet for to possesse more than others. Many such speeches and discourses as these, passed from Cyrus. Well, at the last, Mandane his Mother tooke her leave and departed: but Cyrus remained behind, and had there his bringing up.

Quickly grew he into acquaintance with his companions, so as hee became very inward with them: Soone also did he wind himselfe into the love and fa∣vour of their fathers, both by going unto them, and also by shewing what affe∣ction he bare to their children: in so much, as if they themselves had any suit un∣to the King, they would bid their children to request Cyrus to take upon him for to dispatch their businesse: And Cyrus for his part (such was his courtesy and de∣sire of honour) tooke no greater pleasure in the world, when these children re∣quested ought, than to speed their suits. Neither had Astyages the power to deny any request that Cyrus made, but was ready to satisfie him therein. For, when it hapned that the King was sicke, he would never depart from him, nor give over weeping: that every man might well perceive, how exceedingly he feared, lest his Grandfather should die. And if Astyages called for any thing in the night whereof he stood in need, Cyrus was the first that heard him: start he would up, and of all others make greatest haste to minister vnto him such things as he thought might please him: whereby he wonne Astyages his heart and was every way gracious with him. And Cyrus to say a truth, was peradven∣ture

somwhat talkative and too ful of words: partly by reason of his education, For that he was enforced by his schoolemaster to render a reason of all his own doings, and to require as much of others, when he sat in Iudgement: and in part, because (being as he was desirous of knowledge) he would ever both himselfe be inquisitive asking many questions of them that were in place, how the world went with them? and also, whatsoever others demaunded of him (such was the quicknesse of his wit,) he had alwaies his answer ready for them: So that, con∣sidering all these causes, he had gotten to himselfe an habit of loquacity and much prattle. But like as in their bodies, who being very young, are shot up, and growne to great stature above their age, there appeareth neverthelesse a cer∣taine vigorous youthfulnesse that bewraies their tender yeeres: even so out of all the lavish language that Cyrus used, there was seene no audaciousnesse, but sim∣plicity and loving behaviour. So as any man would haue desired, still to heare him speake more and more, rather than to be with him when he held his peace. Howbeit, when in processe of time, Cyrus was growen both in body and yeeres toward a young mans estate, he not onely used fewer words and shorter speech, but tooke himselfe also to a more still and lower voice. So bashfull likewise he was, that he would blush whensoever he met with any elderly persons. That overmuch forwardnesse also of his, in fawning upon every man and preasing into all companies, like unto wanton whelps, he shewed nothing so much now, as be∣fore: whereby he became more stayed by farre, and neverthelesse in all meetings right lovely and passing well accepted. For, truly, what games and exercises soever companions are wont many times to practise one against another, looke in which hee knew himselfe better than other young Gentlemen his fellowes, therein he never chalenged them: but wherein he wist full well that he was the weaker, he would be sure to begin first, and give out withall, that he would per∣forme the same better than they. Yea he assayed first before all others to vault and mount on horsebacke, to shoot also and dart from his horse. Went he any time away with the worse? very pleasant he was and laughed at himselfe most of all: By reason therefore, that when hee had once the foyle, hee would not shrinke and give over cleane, but still assay and practise eftsoones to doe better and better, those feats wherein he was inferiour: in short time he became as good a rider as his fellowes: within a while also (such was his fervent affection to the thing) he outwent and excelled them all. To conclude, within a little space, what with chacing, shooting and killing those beasts which were in the parke, he made such havocke, that he destroyed them all; insomuch as Astyages could not get together for him more game. Cyrus then, perceiuing that his Grandsire was not able, would he never so faine, to furnish him with beasts alive, many times said thus unto him, What need you Grandfather to trouble your selfe so much as you doe, in seeking wild beasts? If you will send me forth on hunting with mine Vnkle [ Cyaxares] I will suppose, that every beast which I shall see, you keep up and nourish for me. And in very truth exceeding desirous though he was to goe abroad into the forrest, yet could he not now any more be so bold and forward as before-time, when he was a child, but held off and tooke good leasure to come unto his Grandfather for to get leave: So that wherein heretofore he complained of Sacas for not suffering him to go unto his Grandfa∣ther, he was therein become a Sacas to controll himselfe. For hee would not venture to presse in, unlesse he foresaw that the time served thereto: yea he would

not sticke to desire Sacas to doe him the favour, as alwayes to signifie unto him, when he might have the opportunity of accesse, and when not? And therefore this Sacas now loved him passing well, like as all others did. Now when Astya∣ges knew once that Cyrus had such an ardent desire to hunting abroad in the Chace, he sent him forth together with his said Vnkle: and appointed a guard of certaine auncient Gentlemen of the Court, who also were on horsebacke, with speciall charge to keepe him out of daungerous places, and to save him from sa∣vage beasts, if haply any of them should be put up. Cyrus therefore was very inquisitive of these warders that attended upon him, what kind of beasts they were, which he might not approach nor meddle with, as also which hee might be bold to hunt? Who told him, that Beares, Lions, wild Boares and Libards had slaine already many a man adventuring to come over nigh unto them: But Harts and Hinds, Bucks and Does, wild Sheep and wild Asses, said they, be no∣thing daungerous to be dealt withall. They added moreover and said, that the difficulties of some places were to be taken heed of, no lesse than the very beasts: For, many men, horse and all (said they) have heretofore fallen downe headlong from steep rocks and so perished. Cyrus gave good care and willingly conceived all these advertisements: Howbeit, no sooner had he espied an Hind on foot, but forgetting all that he had heard, hee made after her, looking to nothing in the world else, but whither she made way and fled. In so much as his horse under him, leaping forward, I wot not how, fell upon his knees, and went very neere to have cast him over his necke: neverthelesse Cyrus made meanes, though it were with much adoe, to sit him still, and so the horse recovered. But so soone as he was come into the open field, he picked his dart and overthrew the Hinde, a goodly faire beast, I assure you, and a large: whereat himselfe verily rejoyced exceeding much: but his Governours and those of the guard aforesaid, came ri∣ding to him apace, all to rated and rebuked him, shewing to what perill he had exposed himselfe, and saying withall that they would tell his Grandfather of him. Cyrus therefore who by this time was alighted from his horse, stood still, as one much grieved and troubled in his mind, to heare such words. But when he heard the cry, he leapt presently on horsebacke againe, as one beside himselfe and in a fanaticall fit: and so soone as ever he saw a wild Bore affronting him, he ran against it, launced his jav'lin, and tooke his aime so right, that he struck him in the forehead, astonied the beast, overthrew him and gat the upper hand of him. Then, his Vnkle also seeing his adventurous rashnesse reproved him: who notwithstanding his rebukes and checks, requested him, that he might with his good leave, carry whatsoever himselfe had gotten, unto his Grandfather and pre∣sent him therewith. But his Vnkle made, as they say this answer, Your Grand∣father, if he should know that you chaced these Beasts in proper person, would not only chide you, but reprove me also for suffering you: let him skourge me too, and spare not, quoth he againe, if it be his pleasure, when I have once be∣stowed them vpon him: And even you, Vnkle, may likewise chastice me, if you will, and as you list, so you gratifie me first in this my request. Well, quoth Cyaxares then at length, doe as you will your selfe, for now already you seeme to be a King over us. So Cyrus presented the beasts and gave them to his Grand∣father, saying withall, that he had hunted the said venison for his sake. As for his darts hee shewed them not openly unto him, howbeit all bloody as they were, he bestowed them in such a place where he thought his Grandfather should

see them. Then said Astyages unto him, I accept my sonne gladly at your hands whatsoever you give me: but I stand in no such need of any of these things, that you should hazard your selfe therefore. Why then Sir, quoth Cyrus againe, if you need them not, I humbly beseech your Grace, to bestow them upon me, that I may deale them among my companions. Take them, my Sonne, quoth Asty∣ages, and give not onely the same, but whatsoever else you will desire, to whom you please. So Cyrus tooke them, and gave them among the boies such as him∣selfe, saying thus withall, How trifled we my lads, when wee hunted the deere empaled within the parke? for mine owne part, I thinke it all one, as if a man should course beasts in a prison. And why? First they were enclosed within a streight place: then, they seemed but small, leane and mangy: some halt and lame, others maimed. But the deere that be in the mountaines, Forests, plains and medowes, how faire, how great, how fresh and slick seeme they? The Harts and Hinds, like so many winged foules, were so fleet, that they mounted aloft toward the skie: and the wild Bores gave assault, in manner, as one would say, of hardy and valiant men: so large and broad withall, that a man could not possi∣bly misse them. Certes, in my conceit, these beasts here of the Forest lying starke dead, make a goodlier shew, than those immured within a pale or wall, for all they be alive. But how thinke you sirs quoth he, will your fathers give you leave to go on hunting? Yea, and that right soone, said they, if King Asty∣ages would but commaund. Which of all you then, quoth Cyrus, will moove the matter to the King? Who, said they, is better able to perswade and speed than your selfe? As for me quoth Cyrus, by Iuno I sweare, I wot not to what passe I am brought. For neither can I speake ought, nor able am I any more so much as to looke my Grandfather in the face, as I was wont to doe. And if I grow on still after this fashion, I feare me that I shall proove altogether some blockish coward or starke foole. And yet when I was but a little child, mee thought I had tongue enough, and could speake, none so well. Why then said the boyes againe, by your saying, it goes hard with us, in case you can do nothing in our behalfe, if we should stand in need, but that we must seeke unto some o∣ther for to effect that, which lyeth in you to doe. Cyrus at these words being much agrieved and vexed at the heart, departed from them in silence: and ar∣ming himselfe with boldnesse, hee went in to his Grandfather. Now when he had waited his time, and cast with himselfe how he might without any trou∣ble and displeasure addresse his speech unto him, for the obtaining of his and the boyes suit, in this manner he began, Tell me, good Grandsire quoth he, if any one of your houshold servants ran away, and you should catch him againe, in what sort would you intreat him? How else, quoth he, but imprison him, and force him to worke as a slave in yrons? yea, but say, he returned of his owne ac∣cord? after what manner would you deale with him then? what should I doe, but after I had skourged him, that he might doe no more so, use him againe as I did before? Then were it high time, quoth Cyrus, for you to be provided for to whip me, who have a purpose to run away, and to take with me my fellowes on hunting. Well, quoth Astyages, it is honestly done of you yet, to give me war∣ning; for now I commaund you not to stirre one foot out of dores: A trim and goodly matter it were indeed, if I for a little piece or two of hunted flesh, should bereave my daughter of her sonne. Vpon these words Cyrus obeyed indeed and tarried at home; howbeit with a sad and heavie countenance he continued silent

and would not speake a word. Astyages then perceiving how hee sorrowed, as one much discontented; yet minding to please him againe, had him forth into the chace: And having assembled a great number both foot and horse, together with the boyes also, and caused the wild beasts to bee driven together into the plains commodious for the horsemen, he made of it a great day of hunting. Him∣selfe also in person all royally beseene was present, and gave streight commaun∣dement, that no man should be so hardy as to shoot and strike a beast before that Cyrus had his fill thereof. But Cyrus not able to endure that others should be thus forbidden, Grandsire, quoth he, if you would have me to make a pleasure of my hunting, suffer all those that are about me here, to chase, to strive, and do their best. Then Astyages gave them all leave: And him selfe stood still and beheld how egrely they encountred the beasts, how they contended for the better, how they pursued them in chace and piked their darts at them: Great delight he took in Cyrus, who for very joy could not hold his tongue, but like a whelp of a good kind, set up a cry, when he drew neere unto any beast, and therewith encouraged and called to every one by name. He rejoyced moreover to see how Cyrus laugh∣ed at one, and to heare how he praysed another, without any shew at all of repi∣ning envie. But in the end Astyages departed, with a great prey of many beasts: And from thence forward (such pleasure he had in this hunting) hee would al∣waies, when his leasure served goe forth with Cyrus, yea and for Cyrus sake, take the youths aforesaid abroad, among many others beside. And verily after this manner spent Cyrus the most part of the time; wherein his carriage was such, that as he procured some contentment and good to all men, so he wrought no dis∣pleasure nor harme to any.

CHAP. IIII. How Astyages through the politike counsell of Cyrus, wonne a victory of the Assyrians, who were come to invade his Territories.

NOw when hee was about the age of fifteene or sixteene yeers, it hapned that the Kings sonne of the Assyrians, being upon the point of marriage, was very desirous himselfe in person, against that time to hunt. Hearing therefore that in the marches and confines betweene them and the Medes, there was great store of deere (for by reason of the warres, they were spared and not of long time hunted) he had a mind now to hunt there. To the end therefore that he might follow his game in more safety, he tooke with him, many of his light horsemen, and targatiers, who should out of the rough thickets put out the beasts for him, and drive them into the tilled grounds and open plaines. And being come as farre as to his frontier Forts, and where he had a garrison, there he supped; that early the morrow morning he might hunt. Now by that time it was evening, there were come out of the city both horsemen and footmen, to succeed in place of the former garrison. So that now he supposed himselfe to be furnished with a great army, as having two garrisons in readinesse, besides the foot and horse which himselfe had brought with him. Vpon good delibe∣ration therfore, he thought it best to make an incursion and raise booty out of the Medes ground; for that thereby, as the pastime of hunting would seeme more

brave and gallant, so he thought hee should have greater store of beasts to sacri∣fice. Betimes therfore in the morning, he did set forward with his power in this order. His footmen he left thicke embattayled upon the borders: himselfe with his Cavallery advanced toward the fortresses of the Medes, where he stayed with the best men of armes and those in number most, whom he kept about him, that the garrison soldiours of the Medes might not make head upon his Avantcourri∣ers as they stragled and overran the confines: as for the light horsmen nimbly ap∣pointed, he sent certein forth out of every band to make rodes, some one way, some another, with commandement, to overspread every place, and whatsoe∣ver came within their reach, to drive the same to his hand. Which service they performed accordingly.

When advertisement was giuen to King Astyages that enemies were already entred into his land, both himselfe in person went forth with such as were about him to relieve the marches, and his sonne also, with such a troupe of horsemen as were in readinesse accompanied him. Not forgetting withall to send out his commissions to all others, for to come forward in aid. The Medes when they saw a great power of the Assyrians arraunged in good order, together with their men of armes keeping their ground and not stirring, made also a stand them∣selves. And Cyrus for his part, seeing others on all sides, ready to set forth in defence of the Frontiers, did the same likewise. Which was the first time that ever he put harneis on his backe (a thing not permitted him before to do) so desi∣rous was he to be armed: and truly a very fayre armour it was and well befitting him, which his Grandfather had caused to be made compleat for his body. Thus armed at all peeces, and mounted upon a goodly courser, hee rode forward to the service. Astyages seeing this, albeit he mervayled much at whose commaund he came; yet required he him to abide with him and not to stirre one foot. Cyrus then, so soone as he discovered a number of horsemen afront, demaunded say∣ing, Be those yonder, our enemies Grandfather, who sit still upon their horse∣backs so quietly? yea quoth he, enemies they are. And what are they a farre off that ride and drive before them, quoth Cyras be they likewise enemies? yes said Astyages and they too. Now surely Grandsire, quoth he, they seeme to be but cowards, and to ride upon very jades and titts, who thus harry and drive before them our goods. It were a good deed, yea and uery requisite, that some of us made a rode out after them. Yea, but see you not my Child (answered he) what a strong troupe of great horse and men of armes, standeth on a plump in battell-ray? who if we should make after those, would intercept us by the way and stop our passage: besides, our forces are not yet come together. But if you will tarry here, replyed Cyrus, and receive such as are comming hither to aide; those that stand still hereby, will be afraid and not once dare to quetch: those o∣ther also who are driving booties, will immediately forgoe their prey, upon the very sight of some that charge upon them. Having thus said, he seemed unto Astyages for to speake somewhat to the purpose. Who wondring withall at his prudent forecast, and vigilant circumspection, commaunded [Cyaxares] his sonne to take a Cornet of horsemen, for to set forward, and to charge those that were a boot-haling. And I for my part quoth Astyages will make head at these here, if they once seeme to stirre and advance against you: so that they shall be forced to have a watchfull eye unto us. Thus Cyaxares taking with him the valiantest men and best mounted, did put forwards. And Cyrus so soone as he perceived

them to come on, speedily breaketh out with them; and long it was not but himselfe was the foremost of the troup, and led them all a great pace: Cyaxares followed hard, and the rest were nothing behind. Whom, when they that drave the booty saw to approach, incontinently they abandoned all and fled. But the company about Cyrus intercepted them: and whomsoeuer they could ouertake and reach, they wounded out of hand, and Cyrus was the foremost: but as ma∣ny as ouerrode them and escaped their hands, those they pursued hotely, and ne∣uer gave over untill they had taken some of them prisoners. And like as a gene∣rous Hound, untrained yet and without experience, runneth all on the head rash∣ly upon the wild Bore: Even so for all the world, rode Cyrus upon the spurre, looking at this onely, how he might strike whomsoeuer he could overtake, and regarded nothing els. The enemies seeing their fellowes thus distressed and in jeo∣pardy, came forward with their maine troupe, supposing that the chace would ceasse, if they were seene once to advance toward them. As for Cyrus, he slac∣ked never a whit the more, but for joy called upon his unkle, to hold on and maintaine the chace still. And for that he had gotten the upper hand, he did put the enemies to an exceeding great rout. And verily, Cyaxares [the yonger] for his part, followed, haply for a reverent regard of his father: the rest likewise came after, being then more willing by such an example to make pursuit, who other∣wise were not very courageous nor resolute to encounter the enemy. Astyages perceiving them inconsiderately to follow on still, and the enemies many in number, and those in good order of battaile redy to confront and receive them: being affrayd withall in the behalfe of his owne sonne and of Cyrus, lest they being in disaray should rashly rush upon the other so well appointed, and so en∣danger themselves, directly led against the enemies: who on the other side per∣ceiuing the Medes making towards them, stood still, some with their darts redy to lance, others with bowes and arrowes bent to shoot, and so kept their ground: supposing that the other likewise would stay and stand, so s••••ne as they came within shot, according as they were wont to doe. For, their manner was, thus neere and no more to approach one another, and so many a time to skirmish on∣ly with shot at randam even untill night. But now seeing their owne men to flye unto them amaine, and therewith the souldiers about Cyrus pursuing them fierce∣ly hard at heeles, and Astyages likewise with his Cauallery, alredy within arrow shot, they declined from them at one side and fled: The other, who also at once followed in chace, tooke many of them by force one with another: and whom∣soeuer they caught, downe they went, both horse and man, killing and slaying all that fell: and never gave over the execution untill they came as farre as to the Assyrians Infantery: And there verily, for feare of some greater ambushment in covert, to intercept and cut them off, they stayed themselves. Then Astyages retired with his forces, as right joyfull for the horsemens victory: But of Cyrus he wist not what to make or say: For, well he knew, that he was the chiefe au∣thour of this exploit: but he saw withall, how in all the service, for his audaci∣ous adventure he fared like unto one furiously transported. For, even at that time I assure you, when others were returning homeward, he onely did nothing els but ride up and downe all about, to view them that were ouerthrowne and slaine: in so much as hardly could they (who had commission so to doe) hale him away and bring him to Astyages: and even those who had the conducting of him, he caused to goe a great way before, for that he perceiued his Grand∣fathers

fathers countenance at the sight of him, to be sterne and terrible. And thus pas∣sed these things in Media. As for Cyrus, as he was rife in every mans mouth, whiles they ceassed not to say and sing all praises of him: So Astyages, who be∣foretime highly honoured and esteemed him, had him now in exceeding great admiration.

CHAP. V. How Cyrus returned to his father into Persia: and what honour the Medes did him at his departure.

THEN Cambyses the father of Cyrus, hearing this report that went of him, joyed thereat, you may be sure, not a little: but for that he heard that Cyrus had atchieved manly Acts alredy, hee sent for him home, to the end that he might performe those parts which by the discipline of the Persians were required. Whereupon Cyrus, by report, said, that depart he would, because his father should not be offended, nor his countrey and the State complaine and finde fault with him. Astyages therefore thought it requisite and necessary to send him away: and having bestowed upon him such horses as it pleased him∣selfe to take, and furnished him besides with all things for that purpose, he ho∣nourably dismissed him: which he did, both because he loved him, as also for that he conceived withall a great hope of him, that he would prove a man ano∣ther day, sufficient both to pleasure and helpe his friends, and also to displease and hurt his enemies.

Now was Cyrus at his departure accompanied on the way with all sorts and degrees, as well boyes and such as were of his owne yeeres, as men and Aunci∣ents all on horsebacke: yea and Astyages himselfe rode onward with him: Nei∣ther was there any one, as it is sayd, but at his returne homeward wept amaine. Cyrus also is reported to have shed many a teare at his farewell: Moreouer, men say, that among his equalls in age and companions, he dealt many of those gifts which Astyages had bestowed upon him: In conclusion, the very Median Robe which he then ware, he did put off, and gave it unto one, declaring thereby that he loved him especially above the rest. Who when they had received these gifts at his hands, presented them all, as they say, unto Astyages: and Astyages when he had them, sent them backe unto Cyrus: but he returned them eft-soones into Media, delivering this message withall, If you would ever have mee, ô Grand∣father, to repaire unto you againe without the blemish of shame and disgrace, suffer each one to have and hold that which I have given them: which words when Astyages heard, he did according to the said message. And, if I must re∣count some merry speeches, and amorous words also that passed among, the voyce goeth, that at Cyrus departure, when they tooke their leave one of ano∣ther, Cyrus dismissed his kinsmen with a kisse of his lips, after the Persian man∣ner, for it is the fashion among the Persians even at this day so to doe. At which time there was one of the Medes a right good and an honest Gentleman, who ad∣vised well a long while, the exceeding beautie of Cyrus and wondered thereat: who when he saw his other kinsmen to kisse him, he himselfe stood still and stir∣red not. No sooner were the rest gone, but he came unto Cyrus and said, What

Cyrus! Am I the only man whom you know not for your kinsman? Why, quoth Cyrus, are you also of kinne to mee? Yea surely that I am saith the other. This was it quoth Cyrus, that you eyed me so: For mee thought I marked you oftentimes so to doe. True said the other: and as desirous as I was, all the while to come unto you, yet God so mee helpe, for very bashfulnesse I ever held off. But you should not have so done, quoth Cyrus, being a cousin of mine: and with that he came unto him and kissed him. The Mede when he had this kisse, asked him and said, Is this the manner indeed of the Persians, for kinsmen thus to kisse one another? Yea verily, quoth Cyrus, both at meeting when they have not seene one another a certaine time, and also at parting when they take their leave and goe forth any whither. Then it is time now saith the Mede, that you give mee another kisse. Foreven now as you see, am I to depart. So Cyrus ha∣ving kissed him the second time, bade him farewell and went himselfe away. They had not ridden farre asunder on their journey, but the Mede returned a∣gaine with his horse under him all sweating and in a lather: whom when Cyrus saw, what! saith he, have you forgotten any thing that you would have said to mee? No verily answered the other, but after a time, I am come as you see unto you. True indeed, cousin, quoth Cyrus, you are so, and that after a very short time. What short time answered the Mede is that? wote you not, ò Cyrus, that if I doe but winke never so little, I thinke the time very long, for that I see you not the while, being so gallant a young Gentleman as you are? Hereat Cyrus began to laugh (and the first time it was, after his former weeping) saying withall unto him, Goe your wayes and be of good cheere: For shortly the time will come, when you may behold mee if you will, with your eyes broad open and neuer winke for the matter.

Cyrus being in this manner returned into Persia, continued by report, one whole yeere more in the schoole of Children. And they verily at his first com∣ming would scoffe at him, as who having learned among the Medes to lead a de∣licate life, was now come againe to them. But after that they saw him to eate and drinke heartily and savourly as they did: and found likewise by experience, that if there were any great cheere upon some high and festivall day, he could finde in his heart to give away unto others some of his owne part, rather than de∣sire any of others: when they perceived besides, that in all other things Cyrus farre excelled them, then his companions began to have him againe in great esteemation. When hee had passed through this first discipline, and was now entred into the ranke of young-men: therein also hee seemed to surmount all the rest, as well in studying and practising all that was required, in endu∣ring also and suffering whatsoever he was put unto, as besides in reveren∣cing respectively his Seniors: yea and in obeying dutifully the Rulers and Ma∣gistrates.

CHAP. VI. The beginning of the warres betweene the Assyrians and the Medes. Of the forces that Cyrus levied in Persia to aide the King of Media his Vnkle.

BVt in processe of time Astyages [the King dyed in Media: and Cyaxares Astyages his sonne, and brother to Cyrus Mother, succeeded in the Empire of the Medes. Then the King of the Assyrians, who had vanquished all the Syrians, (and those were no small nation,) subdued the King of the Arabians, and brought him to his obedience, and who held already the Hyrcanians like∣wise under his subjection, and now warred upon the Bactrians and besieged their cities, thought this with himselfe, that if he could once conquer the Medians al∣so, or weaken their estate, he might soone become the absolute Monarch of all the neighbour countries round about him. For, this Nation, of all the borde∣rers was reputed most puissant. Sending therefore unto his owne subjects, and to those who were under his alleageance: likewise to Croesus King of the Lydi∣ans, and to the King of the Cappadocians: to the inhabitants of Phrygia, both the one and the other, to the Carians, Paphlagonians, to the Indians and Cilicians, he layd open unto them many grievous imputations against the Medes and Persians, alleadging, how great and mighty these States were, how they combined and linked themselves together by mutuall marriages: and in a word, were so knit and united in perpetuall league and amity, that unlesse some one arose by good forecast to prevent their growth and abate their force, great daunger there was, that they would invade one nation after another, and so subdue them all. These Princes and States therefore, partly perswaded by these his suggestions, and in part inveagled by his presents and money, whereof he had exceeding store, con∣descended and entred into association with him. But Cyaxares Astyages his sonne, perceiving what traines were laid and purveyance addressed against him; imme∣diately both made what preparation he could himselfe: and also dispatched his Embassadours to the Persians as well unto the States there, as also to Cambyses his brother in law, who had married his sister and raigned King of Persia. Hee sent also to Cyrus, requesting him that in case the Councell and State of Persia sent any power of men to aide, he would indeavour to be the Generall of those forces. For, now by this time, had Cyrus spent his ten yeeres with the Youths, and was reckoned in the ranke of men full growne. Cyrus therefore having well approoved the motion, was by the Elders (Councellers of the State) elected Lord Generall in this expedition into Media. They gave him also commission to choose unto him 200. Gentlemen as Peeres called Homotimi. Also every one of those 200. they licenced to make election of foure others like unto them∣selves in degree: which number amounteth unto one thousand. Semblably to every one of this thousand they granted for to levy from out of the common people of the Persians, 10. light targuatiers, ten slingers, and tenne archers. By which meanes, over and above the thousand Peeres or Gentlemen aforesaid, there were in all ten thousand Archers, ten thousand Targuatiers, and ten thou∣sand Slingers. This so great an army was committed to the conduct of Cyrus: who was no sooner chosen, but forthwith he began devoutly at the service of

the gods: and being assured by his sacrifices of their propitious favour, then and not before, he made choise of those two hundred aforesaid: and when they also had taken every one foure more unto them: Cyrus assembled them all together, and made his first speech unto them in this manner.

CHAP. VII. The oration of Cyrus to the Peeres and Chieftaines of his Army for to incite them to enterprise this warre with the better courage.

MY friends, chosen you I have, not as one who had good proufe of you at this present and not before: but in that I have seene, even from your Child-hood, with what alacrity you travaile in those things which the Common-wealth reputeth vertuous: and utterly abandon such as it dee∣meth vicious. But what motives induced me not unwillingly both to under∣take this high place of government, as also to call you forth into the Action, I am now minded to declare unto you. Thus much I observe, that our Aun∣cestors have in nothing beene inferiour unto us, as who evermore practised the deeds of vertue: But what benefit they have acquired being so brave men as they were, either in publike to the Persians Common-weale, or in private to their owne estates, I cannot yet perceive. For, surely, in mine opinion, men give not their minds to exercise any vertue for this end, that when they are be∣come good and honest, they should in nothing be preferred above the wicked. And even they that forbeare the fruition of pleasures presented unto them, doe it not because they would never joy any more: but, for that by such con∣tinent behaviour, they might in future time attaine to many and sundry de∣lights. They that desire to excell in eloquence, aime not in all their studies and meditations to this end, that they should never give over the eloquent plea∣ding of causes: but their hope is, that when they have by their fine tongues perswaded men to their minds, they may to themselves purchase many great and goodly availes. Moreover, Martiall men that are emploid in feats of Armes, take not all this their paines, never to make an end of fighting: but even these men also, set this downe to themselves, that being once come to perfection in military prowesse, they shall win both to themselves and to their countrey much wealth, much happinesse and great honours. Now, if any men after their great toyle in these affaires, before they reaped any fruit there∣of, have carelessely suffered themselves to age, and thereby to grow unmeet for warre, in my conceit they fare much like, as if one desirous to be a good and thrifty husbandman, should sow well and plant his ground as well: but when he is to receive the encrease comming of his tillage and husbandry, suf∣fereth the corne not inned, to shed, and fall againe upon the ground. Or, as if some Champion when hee hath sustained much travaile, so as now he is thought a worthy victour, should never after enter into the lists and performe his devoyr. For, in my judgement, even such an one deserveth worthily to be condemned for his folly. Let not us therefore my souldiers be faulty in this kind: but considering we are privy to our owne hearts, and assured that even at first from our tender yeers we have beene trained up in noble and worthy

Acts, set me forward against those enemies, whom I know most certainly, by that which my selfe have seene in them already, to be unexpert in fight against us. Certes, for my part, I hold not these to be able souldiers, who howsoever they have the feat and knowledge, to shoot well, to dart likewise and ride as∣well, yet cannot endure any labour, but quaile when they are put unto it. But these our enemies, for any matter of paines taking, are very raw and untrained novices. Neither are they to be accompted good souldiers, who when they should watch cannot away withall: and our enemies here are such, as for their sleepe cannot of all things want it: Nor yet may they goe for good warriors, who albeit in the points abovesaid are sufficient enough, yet be to seeke how to carry themselves toward their friends, and how to enemies. And evident it is that these here be altogether to learne those disciplines which in warre be of greatest consequence. But as for you, able yee are to use the night in every point as well as others the day: yee repute labours to be the guides leading the way to pleasant life. Hunger yee reckon in stead of sauce: and to drinke water, yee can endure better than the very Lyons. To conclude, the fayrest possession, the most precious treasure and best agreeable unto warriors that is, yee have laid up within your hearts: in that ye take more joy in being praised, than in all things else in the world. And they that are lovers of praise and re∣nowme, must needs for the attaining thereto, willingly undergoe all travell and abide all daunger. Now, if I should pronounce thus much of you, thinking and knowing otherwise, I doe but deceive my selfe: as upon whom the fault will redownd, incase no such thing be performed by you. But verily, such is your owne skill, your love also to me ward: such likewise is the blockish ig∣norance of our enemies, that I trust assuredly these good hopes will not faile mee. Only let us march on in this our journey with bold and couragious hearts: considering, it is farre from us to be thought for to covet other mens goods unjustly: for even now, as, our enemies are comming and begin first to deale wrongfully with us: so our friends call unto us for ayde. What then is there either more just than to put by an injury, or more honou∣rable, than to helpe our friends? Moreouer, in this regard I suppose you re∣pose not the least confidence, because I have not enterprised this expedition, with neglect of the Gods: For, being as yee are, privy unto many of my do∣ings, and much conversant with mee, yee know very well that not only in weighty affaires, but also in smaller matters, I use alwayes to begin in the name of the Gods. In conclusion, quoth he, what should I say more? when you have chosen and taken unto you elect men, and are otherwise in all points well and sufficiently provided, set forth toward the Medes. As for mee, repaire I will unto my Father, to the end that having with all speed learned of him the state of our enemies, I may accommodate you what I can in this affaire, and so with the power of God, make a right noble journey of it.

CHAP. VIII. The good instructions that Cambyses gave unto his sonne Cyrus as touching the enterprise against the Assyrians: and how a good Captaine should carry himselfe with his army in a strange coun∣try, and win the love of every man.

THus therefore were they busied and thus prepared they themselves. But Cyrus after his returne home, and having made his prayers unto Vesta the Patronesse of his countrey, to Iupiter also the Protectour thereof, and to other gods, did put himselfe in his war expedition: and his father brought him on his way.

When they were gone forth of the Palais, it thundered and lightned on the right and lucky side, as they say: whereupon without any other token or pre∣sage taken by augury, they marched forth, as who would say; no man then could be ignorant of the signes given by the most high and mighty God. Now when Cyrus was gone a little forward, his father began to discourse unto him in this wise.

That the gods, my Sonne are propitious, and accompany thee with their gra∣cious favour, evident it is as well by sacrifices as celestiall tokens: and thou thy selfe doest know as much. For, taught thee I have these matters of purpose, partly that thou mightest know the will and counsell of the gods by no other interpreters, but understand the same by thy selfe, seeing the sights and hea∣ring the noises that are to bee seene and heard: and not depend upon wi∣zards, who might if they were disposed deceive thee, by relating other things than were signified by the gods above: and partly because, if at any time thou wert without a Soothsayer, thou shouldest not doubt what to resolve upon, by those divine tokens: but observing by this skill of Divination what Gods will is, obey the same. Surely father, quoth Cyrus, endeavour I will alwaies even to the uttermost of my power and according to your advertisement, that the gods being favourable unto us would ever be pleased to aduise us for the best. For, I remember, that I heard you once say, It standeth with good congruity, that he should obtaine any thing at the gods hands as well as at mans, yea and more easily, who doth not fawne upon them when he is in distresse: but at what time he is in greatest prosperity, even then thinkes upon the gods most of all. You said moreover that the same consideration of friends likewise must be had. Certes, then my Sonne, quoth Cambyses, being as thou art so devoutly affected to the gods, thou commest unto them now at this time more willingly in that regard, to crave their helpe, yea and thou hopest so much the rather to obtaine whatsoever thou needest and makest petition for, because thy conscience beareth thee witnesse that thou wert never slacke in their service. Doubtlesse, father, quoth he, I am thus conceited of the gods, as of my affectionate friends. What Sonne, said the Father, and doest thou remember those points, which sometime we resolved upon? Namely, that such men are like to speed better who have learned those sciences which are given unto us by the gods, than those that be ignorant of the same? Againe, that by travell they shall gaine more, than by sitting still? As also that by carefull diligence they shall live in more safety,

than if they carry themselves carelesly and take no heed? And verily thus was then our opinion, that after this sort wee should crave good things at Gods hands, to wit, in demeaning our selves as we ought. Truly Father, quoth Cyrus, I remember very well that I heard you deliver these lessons: and I could not choose but of necessity yeeld my consent to those speeches and bee perswaded thereby. Full well I wot also, what you added moreover and said, that in no wise lawfull it was for them to crave of the gods victory in Horse-fight, who have not learned to ride well: neither for those who be unexpert in shooting, to pray unto the gods that they may have the better hand of cunning Archers: ne yet for such pilots as know not how to guide the helme, to beseech the gods they may save ships by their steering: no more than for them that never sowed their seed to wish for a fayre crop of corne to come up; or for those who looke not to themselves battayle, desire the safety of their lives. For, all such [pray∣ers and wishes] verily, be against the ordinance and law of God. Semblably, you said, that whosoever asked at Gods hands ungodly things, by as good rea∣son deserved to be said nay, as those to take a repulse who preferre unto men un∣lawfull suits. But have you Sonne, forgotten those matters, quoth Cambyses, whereof you and I sometime devised and talked together? namely, That it is a sufficient Act for a man to performe, if he be able to procure thus much, as to be himselfe a worthy man indeed and so reputed; and also that both he and his fa∣mily may be well furnished with necessaries: And if this be so difficult a mat∣ter to effect, then to have the skill, for to rule other men, so, as they may have foison of all things needfull and be themselves likewise all, such as they ought to be, I suppose is an admirable thing. Truly Father, quoth Cyrus, I remem∣ber full well that this also was your saying, and therefore unto me as well as un∣to you it seemed then an exceeding hard matter to Governe wel. And even now likewise am I of the same mind considering as I do with my selfe what a piece of worke it is to commaund. But when I looke into other men, and observe withall, both the quality of those persons that are become Rulers, as also what manner of concurrents and adversaries we shall find, I thinke it a foule shame to be affraid of any such, and not willingly to oppose our selves against them: whom I for my part (to begin first with these our friends here) perceive to bee of this opinion, that a Prince or Ruler ought to differ from his people, and to goe be∣yond them, in more plentifull fare and sumptuous suppers; in having at home better store of gold and treasure; in sleeping and lying longer abed, and in a word in living at greater ease, and taking lesse paines than those that are under him. Whereas I (quoth Cyrus) contrariwise am of this mind, that a Soveraigne ought to excell his subjects, not in idlenesse of life, but in prudent forecast and in for∣wardnesse to endure all trauaile. True it is Sonne (quoth he) but it falleth out otherwhiles in certaine cases, that we are to fight not against men, but even with the very things themselves, which we cannot without great difficulty ouercome. As for example, you know well, quoth he, that all your rule and commaund will soone come to naught, if haply your army have not at hand sufficient pro∣vision of necessaries. Yes, quoth Cyrus, but Cyaxares (Father) sayth he is to make purveiance thereof to serve all those that goe from hence, how many soever they be. And doe you indeed my Sonne, quoth Cambyses, enter upon this jour∣ney, trusting in these meanes of Cyaxares? Yea that I doe answered Cyrus. Why! doe you certainly know, replyed he againe, what store of treasure he hath?

Not I, quoth Cyrus, I assure you. And give you credit neverthelesse to these uncertainties? Or wote you not thus much, that you shall have need of many things, and even anon be forced to spend much otherwise? Yes, full well I know that, quoth Cyrus. How then, quoth Cambyses? Say that he either lacke money and bee not able to beare the charge: or for the nonce hold you up with un∣truths; where are you then, and in what case will your army be? Certes, plaine it is, verily that it cannot be well with it. If then, Father, quoth he, you see any way, whereby I may raise some masse of money whiles we are yet among our friends, shew unto me the same. Aske you of me ô Sonne, quoth he, whe∣ther there may be meanes wrought by you to make money? Why? who should in all reason devise and cast about for to make provision thereof, rather than you, who have so puissant an army to commaund? going as you doe from hence with such a power of footmen under your hand, as I know you would not exchange the same for another farre greater in number than it? and as for horsemen, you shall have a troupe to joyne with you from the Medes; which of all other in these dayes is simply the best. What neighbour nation then, thinke you, will not bee glad both by way of gratification and also for feare of dam∣mage and displeasure, to relieve you? which you and Cyaxares ought joyntly to consider and thinke upon: to the end, that at no time you bee at a fault, for want of ought that must be had: yea and if it were but for custome sake, you are of course to lay for meanes to bring in revenewes store. But of all things re∣member this especially, that in no wise you deferre and put off your provision, untill very need enforce you thereto: but whereas you have most plenty, be you carefull so much the more, to be furnished before you feele any want: For you shall the sooner speed at their hands of whom you are to seeke reliefe, if you seeme not to bee destitute and in need: besides, your souldiers shall have no cause to find fault: and so by this meanes, others also will the rather have you in reverence: your souldiers likewise so long as they have all things necessary, will be more ready to serve, if you be disposed by the help of your army, either to doe pleasure or displeasure unto any. And this moreover you are to know, that your speech will carry greater credit, and be more effectuall to perswade them, when as you shall be most able to shew that you have power enough, as, to doe a good turne, so also to worke a mischiefe. Then Cyrus, Me thinks Fa∣ther, quoth he, that you speake all this very well unto me, as in other respects, so in this also, that whatsoever the souldiers shall now receive, not one of them will take himselfe beholden to mee as who know well upon what conditions Cyaxares sendeth for them to aide him: But looke what shall come vnto them over and above that which is set downe, the same verily will they both take as an honour due unto themselves: and like it is by good reason also, that they will yeeld much thanks therefore, to the giver. Furthermore, he that hath the commaund of an army, by the which he may both doe his friends good, and so receive for it the like benefit from them: as also endamage his enemies, by at∣tempting to get something from them: and then afterwards bee negligent in purveiance of plenty and store. Thinke you this, quoth he, to be lesse shamefull in him, than if a man who hath land of his owne, and husbandmen beside to till the same, should yet for all that suffer his ground to lie still, and unprofitable? And therefore, this opinion I would have you Sir to conceive of mee, that I will never be carelesse in devising all meanes possible of provision for my soul∣diours

necessaries, neither in my friends countrey nor in mine enemies. But, beare you not in minde Sonne, quoth Cambyses, what other matters we thought upon and concluded sometimes, and those in no wise to be neglected? Yes ve∣rily, quoth he, I remember them well, what time I came unto you for silver, to pay unto one by way of reward, who said he had instructed me in the leading of an armie: For when you gave me the said money, you questioned withall in this manner with me. Tell mee, my Sonne, said you, whether this man to whom you carrie this reward, among his rules of a Generall, made any mention unto you of oeconomy? For, souldiers verily have no lesse need of necessaries for their living in the Campe, than servants in an house. And when I told you the truth and said, that hee spake not one word at all of that point, you asked me againe, whether hee discoursed unto me of health and bodily strength, whereof a Grand-Commaunder should be no lesse carefull than of the conduct of his host? And upon my denyall thereof, you demaunded of me once more, if he had taught me any meanes whereby mine Associates fighting under mee, might in every respect be most expert in warlike feats? And when hereto also I answered nay: you enquired farther, whether I had learned of him how I might encourage and cheere up mine armie? saying therwith, that in every deed, courageous alacritie, far excelled heartlesse backwardnesse. When I had denyed this too, you came yet stil upon me, and would needs know, what precept he had given of this point, namely the obedience of an armie, and how a man might best bring that to passe? And when it appeared, that there had not been a word delivered as touching that, in the end you concluded with this question, what one point he had taught me when he said, that he instructed me in the Art Im∣peratory? Vnto which when I made answer, saying, That he had trained me in embattailing an armie, you smiled thereat, and discoursed unto me in parti∣cular, to wit, what good did the embattailing of an armie to the Art Impera∣tory, without the purveiance of things necessary to live by? also what availed it without preservation of health? what, without the knowledge of arts devi∣sed for warre? what, without obedience of souldiers? Now when you had made it plaine to me, that the setting of a battayle in ray was but a small part of the art Imperatorie, and therewith I asked of you, whether you could in∣struct me in any of those points? you willed me to goe my waies and repaire unto military men, that were reputed expert Commaunders, and of them to en∣quire how these matters each one might best be effected? Since which time I conversed with those whom I heard to be most skilfull in these points. And verily, as touching victuals for our campe, I am perswaded that so much will suffice for this present occasion, as Cyaxares will provide for us. As concerning our bodily health, because I heard and saw, how Cities such as regarded health, make choice of cunning Physicians, whom they maintaine: and Generals of the field also, for their soldiers sake, take Physicians forth with them in their traine, I likewise was no sooner appointed to this charge, but presently I had a care thereof. And I suppose, quoth he, ô father, that I have about me very expert men in the Art of Physicke. Whereunto his Father replyed in this wise, But these Physicians, my Sonne, whom you speake of, are much like unto certaine botchers, that mend torne garments; For, even so, when some are fallen sicke, then and not before they cure and heale them. But your regard of health I would have to be much more honourable unto you: for, you are to endeavour

and provide in the beginning that your army fall not into sicknesse: And what course shall I take father, quoth Cyrus, to performe this? At the first and prin∣cipally you must, quoth he, see to this, that the place be holsome, where you purpose to abide and lye encamped a long time together; wherein you cannot faile, if you take any heed. For, commonly men cease not in their ordinary talke to give out which be healthy coasts and which subject to maladies; and there be alwaies at hand certain apparent signes, to testifie and direct unto both, to wit the very bodies and colour of the inhabitants. Moreover, it will not be sufficient to consider the regions onely, but remember you ought also, in what manner you endeavour to looke unto your selfe, that your owne person may live in health. Then Cyrus, first of all quoth he, my principall care I assure you is, that I never surfait, for that is a dolourous and yrksome thing. Secondly, with labour and travaile, I digest and worke out whatsoever is gone into my belly: For, by this meanes I am perswaded, that I stand to health the longer, and besides get the greater strength. And even so my Sonne, quoth Cambyses, as carefull you ought to be of others. But may Souldiours, good Father, have leisure to exercise their bodies? Yes Iwis, quoth his father, they not onely may, but of necessity must so doe. For an army, if it would doe as it should, and as belongeth thereto, ought never to be at rest, but be doing still, either working mischiefe to the enemies, or doing good to it selfe. A griefe it is my Sonne, to nourish but one person idle, much more grievous to keep a houshold that is sloathfull: but most importable of all, to maintaine a whole hoast in idlenesse. Many things there bee in an army, (to begin at the least, and so to proceed forward) that eate and spend: and looke what they winne, they waste excessively. And therefore in no wise is it expedient that an army should bee idle. Your words, Father as I conceive them, imply thus much, that like as of a sloathfull husbandman there ariseth no profit, even so of an idle Generall can never come good. But I vndertake quoth he, that an industrious Captaine, unlesse some God do crosse him, will both bring to passe, that his souldiers may have plenty of victuals and necessaries, and also provide that their bodies be passing healthy, strong and able. To the end therefore, quoth hee, that they may be well seene and practised in each feat of armes, I suppose, Father, that if I publish to every one of them certaine games of prise, and propose rewards, I shall cause them best to be exercised in each thing: that when need shall re∣quire, I may finde them prest and ready for any service. That is very well said of you Sonne, quoth Cambyses. And in so doing, know this assuredly, that you shall see your military bands alwaies studying to performe their parts, no lesse than in daunces, to observe measures and keepe their order. Moreover, saith Cyrus, for to make souldiers forward and courageous, there is nothing in mine opinion more effectuall, than to have the cast to feed men with good hopes of great availes. But this, quoth he, my Sonne, is much like for all the world, as if a man in hunting would evermore holla to his hounds in such a note as he useth to set up when he seeth his game. For at the first, full well I wote, he shall have his hounds willing enough to heare and obey: but in case he delude and deceive them often in this sort, at the last they will not beleeve him at all, no, not when he sees the game indeed. Semblably it is in this hope whereof you speake. If a man proposing many times unto them the expectance of good things, deceive them, it will come to passe in the end, that when such

an one, sheweth in truth assured hope, he shal not be able to perswade them. And therefore, my Sonne, you ought to take heed, and spare to speake, that which you know not for certaine. Well may other men sometime so doe, and cast out words to that purpose: but it behooveth a Captaine to reserve his owne encou∣ragement to the greatest daungers and extremities, that it may carry the most credit. Now, beleeve me Father, me thinks you speake this very well, and be∣ing so delivered, it pleaseth me better.

CHAP. IX. How a Prince may gaine the obedience of his people, Vanquish his enemies, and get the attribute of wise and vertuous.

BVr how to make my souldiours obedient unto me, I thinke not Father, that I am now to learne. For, you have taught me this your selfe, even immediatly from mine infancie, when you enforced me to obey you. Afterwards you recommended mee in my childhood to Schoole-masters, and they inured me likewise to the same. Also what time I was raunged among the young men, our Governour was very carefull and diligent in this behalfe. Yea, and most of our lawes seeme to prescribe these two points especially, To Rule, and To be ruled. And therefore when I consider throughly these mat∣ters in generall, mee thinkes I observe thus much, that the thing which moveth men most effectually to obedience, is, both to praise and honour him that o∣beyeth, and also to disgrace and punish the disobedient. Indeed my sonne, quoth he, this is the ready way to cause men to obey by constreint, but to make men of their owne accord obedient (which is farre better) there is a more compendious course to be taken. For, whom men thinke to be more wise in procuring their owne good than themselves, him right gladly they will obey. And this you may know to be true as in many other instances, so in sicke folke, how forward are they, to call for Physicians that should prescribe and direct what they ought to doe? Semblably at Sea, how cheerefully doe the passen∣gers obey the Pilots? Likewise, looke whom men suppose to know the avenues and waies better than themselves, how earnestly strive they to follow such guides, and will not by their good wills be left behin? But contrariwise, when they thinke that by obeying they shall take some harme, they will nei∣ther yeeld much for any punishment, nor yet be stirred up with rewards; For, no man willingly taketh any gifts to his owne hurt. Then, Father, quoth Cyrus, your words import thus much, that there is nothing more available to keepe subjects in obeisance, than for a Ruler to be reputed wiser than they. This is my meaning in deed said he. But how may a man Father, quoth Cyrus, soonest acquire such an opinion and esteeme of him selfe? There is not, my sonne, a neerer way, saith Cambyses, than to be prudent in very deed in those things wherein a man would be thought wise. Doe but consider hereof in particu∣lar, and you shall find that I say true. For, if you would be taken for a good Husbandman, an expert horseman, a skilfull Physician, a cunning Musician, or any such, when you are in truth nothing lesse, marke what a number of shifts you must devise to maintaine this outward semblance? And say, that by your perswasiō, many men fal to praise you, to the end that therby you might raise a

glorious name of your selfe: so as you have now laid a good foundation, and possessed every of them with a singular conceit of you: First, you should but deceive them for the present; and soone after when you come to the triall, be∣wray what you are, and so appeare in your owne colours, a vaine boaster. But how might a man Father, in very deed, attaine unto such wisedome, as to fore∣see what in future time will be expedient? Truly, even thus, my sonne, said Cambyses; If so be you study to get as much as may be had by learning, like as you are taught already the skill of marshalling an armie. But, what things soever men cannot learne by discipline, nor foresee by humane wisedome, if you by divination, and oracles consult with the Gods thereabout, you shall be wiser than other men: especially, if when you know what is best to be done, you be carefull withall to put the same in execution. For, to be industrious in procuring of things requisite, is the part of a wiseman, rather than to be alto∣gether negligent in that behalfe. Moreover to winne the love of subjects, a point, which I hold chiefe and principall, evident it is that the same way would be taken, as if a man desired to be loved of his friends. For, I suppose that to effect this, he must endevour to be seene bountifull and beneficiall. A difficult matter it is my sonne, for a man to be able alwaies to pleasure whom he would. But to shew himselfe joyfull and ready to congratulate their good fortune, and with them to grieve and take heavily any adverse calamitie; as also to be prest and ready to relive them in distresse, to be affraied aforehand least they doe a∣misse, to labour also to prevent and provide that they doe not stumble and fall: in these cases, I say hee ought in some sort to goe even with them and beare them companie.

To come now to the practise of armes; If service fall out to be performed in Summer season, a Generall must in all mens sight endure the heat of the Sunne aboue the rest: semblably in Winter time abide most cold: and where travaile is required, there is he to take the greatest paines: For, all these things make much to the winning of his souldiers hearts. And say you so, Father? quoth he, should a Captaine in deed be more painfull every way, than his men that serve under him? Yea ywis, that is my saying. Howbeit, my sonne, be of good cheere and be not dismayed thereat. For, know you this, that the same labours be not in semblable bodies of a chiefe Commaunder and a pri∣vate souldiour, grievous alike: both because in a Commaunder the respect of honour maketh the travaile some-what lighter; and also for that he knoweth whatsoever he atchieveth shall not be hidden but openly seene. But, Father, when souldiers are now well provided of necessaries, when they be in good health and able to travaile: when they be trained in martiall fears, and have a kinde of ambitious humour, desirous to appeare valiant: and withall take more pleasure to obey than to be stubborne and disobedient, thinke you not, father, the man wise who then would make hast to encounter his enemies? Yes truly said he, if he might get the better of them. If not, I for my part verily, as I thought both my selfe to be in better case, and my followers also better ap∣pointed, so much the more would be wary and take better heed: like as all other things that we thinke most precious and set greatest store by, we com∣monly endevour to have in best securitie. But, to get the vantage and ods of our enimies, by what meanes Father, may one best attaine? This is no meane point, I may tell you, my sonne, nor of small importance that you demaund of

mee. But know for certeine that who ever shall effect this, had need be a wait∣layer, a deepe dissembler, a craftie and fraudulent deceiver, a very theefe and greedy robber, and in one word, every way able to overtop his enimies. Here∣at Cyrus smiling, ô good God, Father, what manner of man would you by these your words, have me to be? Even such a one, sonne, as may for all that, be right-just, and most observant of the lawes. Why then, quoth he, when we were children and younglings, taught yee us quite contrary to all this? Why! even so doe wee now also, quoth Cambyses, namely toward our friends and compatriots. And wote you not that yee learne many mischeivous devises, whereby yee may be able to annoy your enimies? No truly, Father, answe∣red Cyrus: Wherefore then, quoth he, learned yee to shoot? For what pur∣pose were yee taught to dart? Why were yee trained up in taking wild Bores with net and toile, yea and in entrapping them in pitfals, or in catching Staggs with snares, grinnes, and cords? Wherefore stood ye not your ground, nor fought on even hand with Lions, Beares, and Libards, but evermore went about to encounter these wild beasts upon advantages? Or know yee not, that all these things be nought else, but mischeivous slights, deceitfull practises, fraudu∣lent wiles, and laying for all advantages? They are no other Father, quoth Cy∣rus, howbeit, against savage beasts. But, were I but seene so much as willing to beguile any man, I remember full well, that I met with many a stripe for my labour. No force, said Cambyses. For wee did not, I take it, permit you, my sonne, either to shoot your arrow, or cast your dart through a man: but we taught you to drive directly at a marke, and in no wise for the present to hurt and mischeive your friends: But if there hapned any warres, that ye might be able to level, yea and to hit even very men also. Likewise we taught you to practise deceit and to win advantage, not of men but of wild beasts: to the end that even herein yee should not hurt your friends. Howbeit in time of warre, if need so require, yee might not be short in such feats. Then, Father, said Cy∣rus, if it be expedient to learne both; namely, to know the way how to doe good and hurt also unto men, it were meet to teach men the one as well as the other. It is reported my sone, quoth Cambyses, that there was sometime in our auncestours daies a certein Schoolemaster, that taught his children (right as you also would have it) Iustice [and Injustice] Not to lye, and withall, To lye: Not to deceive, and yet to deceive: as well, Not to accuse wrongful∣ly, as To accuse unjustly: both, Not to get advantage above others, and also To lay for private gaine and commoditie before others. Now, In these points, forsooth, he did distinguish thus, namely which they were to do unto friends; and which unto enimies. Nay, he went further than so, and taught, That law∣full it was even to beguile friends for profit, yea and to steale from friends their goods for commoditie. He that taught these rules, could not chuse but exer∣cise his scholars to practise the same one unto another when they were chil∣dren: like as men say, the Greeks in the feat of wrestling teach the art of de∣ceit, yea and inure their children also to supplant and beguile one another. Whereby it came to passe, that some of them, growen to be towardly impes, both to beguile cleanly and also to get the vantage of others cunningly: and haply framed withall by nature not unapt for covetousnesse and greedy getting of goods, spared not their very friends but attempted to goe beyond them al∣so. Hereupon a law was made, which standeth in force with us at this day. That

our children should be taught simply and after one way: even as we teach our houshold-servants, To speake truth to our selves, not to deceive, nor steale and filch, ne yet to seeke their owne commoditie: and if they trespasse herein, wee threaten to punish them. To the end that being nuzzled up and inured in this wise, they might prove the milder and more tractable patriots. Afterwards when they were growne to your age, then and not before it was thought, they might safely teach, what things were lawfully to be done to enimies. For being thus brought up togither in a mutuall respective reverence one of another, yee are not like now so farre to exorbitate and breake out of order, as to become fierce and fell among your fellow-citizens. And even so, we doe not discourse of venereous matters and fleshly pleasures unto those that be very young: least haply, young as they be, when audacious boldnesse meeteth with heat of lust they might use the same immoderatly. Par-die quoth Cyrus, true it is, And therefore, good Father, forbeare not to teach mee what you can, as one some∣what dull and comming late to learne, these subtill casts of catching vantage how I may be able to make my part the better and outstrip mine enimies. Then said Cambyses, Devise therefore to the uttermost of your power, when your owne men are, in good order arraunged, to surprise your enimies when they be in disarray: with your owne souldiours armed and well appointed to assaile them unarmed: with your companies watching, to set upon them fast asleepe: when they are espyed by you, and your selfe not discovered by them: also whiles you are in a fensed place of safety, to take them encumbred, within the difficultie and disadvantage of the ground. But how is it possible Father, repli∣ed Cyrus, for a man to watch his enimies such a turne, as to fall upon them in these and such like defaults? For that, my sonne, as well you as your enimies, are of necessitie to meet with many of these occurrents (For both of you ought to goe and send out a foraging, yee cannot choose): yee must needs of both sides take your sleepe: Early in the morning, yee cannot otherwise doe but all-togither, make starts and straggle aside to purvey necessaries: and such waies as yee light upon, be they better or worse yee are to use perforce. All these things ought you to thinke upon; and looke wherein yee finde your selves weakest, therein most of all yee are to be wary and circumspect: in what things you perceive your enimies easiest to be taken and vanquished, therein especially to set upon them. What! quoth Cyrus, is it lawfull to lay for van∣tage in these particulars onely, or in some others beside? Yes ywis, that it is, and in those much more my sonne. For in these, all men for the most part keepe sure watch and ward, as knowing that ordinarily they have need thereof. But they that are skilfull to circumvent their enimies, can either put them first in a good conceit of themselves, and then surprize them at unwares: or suffer them to follow in chase, and so cause them to breake their raies: or by sem∣blance of flight, traine them into streights and places disadvantageous, there to assaile them sodainly. Now, my sonne, it behooveth you, to practise not one∣ly all these stratagemes, which with earnest desire you have already learned, but devise also and of your owne head other sleights against your enimies: even as Musicians, use not those tunes and songs onely which they have learn'd, but study also to make & set other. And verily in Musick new dities and fresh notes in their very prime are in most request: but much more in warre new policies are best set by. For why? such late devised inventions, are those that soonest

can deceive the enimies? And if you my sonne, quoth he, would turne upon men nought else but those sleights, which you have laid for very small wild beasts, thinke you not that you should make good progresse in winning the bet∣ter hand of your enemies? For, to catch foule, you have in the most bit∣ter time of winter risen and gone forth by night: yea and before the poore birds were stirring, set snares and grins for them so cunningly as that the mooveable false floore seemed like unto that which mooved not. Besides certeine foules were so taught by you, as that they served your owne turne, but in the meane time deluded other silly birds of their owne fether: whiles your selfe lay in convert and espiall so, as you saw them, and they had no fight of you. More∣over, your care and endevour was, to prevent the said foules and draw them unto you before they should flye away. As for the Hare because she goeth to releife and feedeth in the darke night, but by day saveth her selfe by her light foot, you kept Hounds which by sent might finde her out: and for that when shee is started, shee swiftly runneth away, you had Greehounds besides trained of purpose to overtake her in pursuit, by good footmanship. And in case the said Hares should out-strip these Greehounds also, you learned out their paths and musets: and to what harbours they chuse to flie, therein you pitched haies and nets hardly to be seene, to the end that the Hare in her most eger flight 01 might fall into them, and therein entangle her selfe. And that shee might not escape thence, you placed men of purpose to watch and marke the manner of it, who being neere at hand should streight-waies seize upon her. And your selfe verily from behind, by setting up a lowd cry, that raught unto her, so af∣frighted the poore Hare, that caught shee was at unwares: whiles those who on the forepart lay in waite instructed by you to keepe silence were hidden and un∣seene. Therefore as I said before, if you would practise likewise such devises as these, against men, I know not for my part, how you should come short of any enemie in the world. Now, if it chaunce at any time, that you be enfor∣ced, in plaine even ground and open feild to joyne battaile with ensignes dis∣played, when yee are on both sides armed and well appointed, even then, my sonne, those helpes and advantages provided long before do very much availe. And such, I say, be these: namely, if your souldiours bodies have beene well exercised; if their hearts have had an edge set upon them and thereby be well encouraged: and last of all, if they have diligently studied and practized mar∣tiall feats aforehand. Moreover, this thing also you are to know; that so ma∣ny, as you shall thinke it meet they should obey you, will all of them likewise deeme it as fit, that you provide for their good and safetie every way. There∣fore be you never carelesse in this point, but foresee over-night what you would have your liege men to doe the morrow, and fore-cast by day, how night-service may speed best. Furthermore, in what sort an armie is to be put in or∣der against a battaile: after what manner it is to be led in march by night or day? how in streights, how in broad plaines and open wayes? how over hilly places, how through champian fields and plaines? Also in what wise a campe is to be pitched? How watch and ward is to be set, as well for night as day? How to advance against the enimies, how to come off, and retire? How to march before an enimie-citie? how to lead an armie to the assault of a walled Fort, and how to withdraw the same from thence? In what manner to passe through hollow waies full of woods, or over rivers? What

order to take with horsemen? what with darters and archers? Also, when you lead your armie displaied into wings, if then your enimies charge directly upon you, in what sort are you to make head and withstand them? Again, when you lead it in forme of a thicke squadron, and they flanke you from some o∣ther side, and not afront; in what manner you are to encounter them? Also, by which meanes you may best know your enimies behaviour and projects: and they least perceive your desseine and purpose. But all these points, why should I now rehearse unto you? For, whatsoever my selfe knoweth, you have often heard: and if others besides seemed expert therein, you have not negle∣cted conference with any one of them: and never were you dull witted and hard to learne. You ought therefore, as I thinke, according as occasions shall be presented, to put such instructions in ure, as you shall suppose will be at all times most expedient for you. And learne withall, my sonne, of mee these di∣rections of greatest importance. Never adventure any thing either by your selfe alone, or in your armie, without warrant of sacrifices and auguries by bird flight: considering thus much, that men take matters in hand no otherwise than by guesse, as not knowing for certeine from whence any good shall re∣dound unto them: how ever haply a man may by the events understand the same. For, many men and those reputed most wise, have perswaded cities to make warre upon those, at whose hands they thus perswaded, have afterward beene overthrowne. Many a man besides, hath both enriched private persons, and also amplified publike States, from whom by their meanes thus enriched and advanced, they have susteined afterwards extreme losse and mischiefe. Many also when they might have used others as friends with reciprocall inter∣change of doing and receiving pleasures, chusing to make them their slaves rather than their friends, have felt the smart thereof, and suffred punishment even at their hands. Many againe, not content to live a pleasant life with a competent and sufficient portion, but coveting to be Lords of all, have lost thereby even all that they had, and possessed before. And to conclude, many having gotten much gold and treasure which they so greatly wished for, have by the same perished and come to ruine. Thus, mans wisedome knoweth no more how to chuse what is best; than if one should cast lots and draw what∣soever falleth unto him. Whereas, the immortall Gods know all as well past as present, yea and the future events of euery King. And to as many as seeking to them for direction they vouchsafe their gracious favour, therefore signifie, what enterprises they are to attempt, and what not. Now, if they be not willing thus to advise all men, no marvaile is it. For, they are not bound of necessitie to regard such as they will not.

Notes

• Popular States or free States mena∣ged by the peo∣ple.
• Absolute States ruled by one Prince. Kingdomes.
• Seignories vnder some few Rulers.
• Heardmen.
• Or Pasture.
• Of the grea∣ter Phrygia and the lesse. See the begin∣ning of the second booke.
• Or place.
• Or boyes.
• Or boyes.
• Or Shir••••.
• Or Natives.
• Or, children.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉: Or Schoole-masters houses.
• Or, Grammar
• Or, young∣lings.
• Impudence.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Or, Pitance.
• Of which the Irish Sham∣rogth are a kinde.
• Or Godet.
• Or, skein.
• Or, of bread.
• Or, pittance.
• besides bread.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Some take it for meale with water and oyle: others, for thick gruell of meale and milke: others al••o for bisket bread.
• Or shield of wicker.
• Or masters, and teachers.
• Or Elders.
• Or boyes.
• Or on both armes.
• Or cheines.
• Or grand∣child as some will haue it.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 or thus. For this (onely) am I able now to doe.
• Or boll.
• or Favourites
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• or, Women.
• His mothers brother.
• Or, pinfold.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Or beasts.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• Or Boyes.
• That is, of e∣quall dignity.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• House-go∣veroment.
• The Tactiks.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• Tactick skill.
• Of cōmaun∣ding an army.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉
• Or Phelony.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or States.