The rarities of Turkey, gathered by one that was sold seven times a slave in the Turkish Empire, and now exposed to view for the benefit of his native countrey:.

How private Turks use Prisoners.

HItherto hath been spoken how the Kings use Captives; now how private men their Prisoners newly taken: first, they threaten them with all sorts of meancing sharp words, promises, and allure∣ments to entice them to Circumci∣sion; which if yeilded to, they are treated somewhat more courte∣ously; but then all hope of ever returning to their Country is clean cut off; and whosoever endeavours it, burning is his appointed punish∣ment. Such as are thought more firm and less fugitive, are admitted to their Masters Military imploy∣ments, and can onely be made free, when age hath made them use∣less; and then he is rather turned off, then remitted orderly; or when the Master by hurt in War, or danger of death, bequeaths him

liberty. They are permitted marriage; but their Children are disposed at the Master's pleasure; which makes the more understand∣ing sort utterly abhor marriage. They who refuse Circumcision, are miserably and unhumanely treated; of which I have had the experience of thirteen yeers suf∣ferings: nor can I express in words the great calamities of such people.