A briefe description of the whole world Wherein is particularly described all the monarchies, empires and kingdomes of the same, with their academies. As also their severall titles and situations thereunto adioyning. Written by the most Reverend Father in God, George, late Arch-bishop of Canterbury.

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE whole World .

THE Globe of the Earth doth either shew the Sea or Land . Of the Seas . The Sea generall , is called by the name of Ocean , which coasteth all the World , and taketh his name in speciall either of the place neer which it commeth , as Oceanus Britannicus , The diver ●●s names giuen to the Seas , and the reason why . Mare Germanicum , Sinus Persicus , Mare Atlanticum , of the hill Atlas in the West part of Africk : or of the finder out , as Fretum Magellanicum ; or of some other accident , as the Red Sea , because the sand is red , Mare Mediterraneum , because it runneth betweene the lands of Europe and Africk , Mare Jcarium because Icarus was drowned there , or the like . There be some few Seas which have no intercourse with the Ocean , as Mare mortuum , neer Palestina , Mare Caspium sive Hircanum , not farre from Armenia : and such a one is said to be in the North part of America .

Of the Straits or Narrow Seas . The Straits or narrow Seas , are noted in the Latine by the name of Fretum , as Fretum Britannicum , the English narrow Seas ; Fretum Herculeum , the Straits between Barbarie and Spain ; Fretum Magellanicum , &c.

Of the Earth . The Earth is either Ilands , which are those which are wholly compassed by the Sea , as Britan●ia , Sicilia , Corsica ; or the Continent , which is called in the English , The firme Land , in the Latin , Continens .

The old known firme Land was contained onely in Asia , Europe , and Africa . Europe is divided from Africa by the Mediterranean Sea ; from Asia by the River Tanais : whereby appeareth , that the North parts of Asia , & Europe in old time , were but little known and discovered .

Africa is divided from Europe by ●he Mediterrean Sea ; from Asia by ●he River Nilus : and so Asia by ●anais and Nilus , is severed from Europe and Africk .

Of Spain .

TO say nothing of England and Ireland , the most Western Country of Europe , is Spain , How Spain is bounded . which is bounded on the South with the Mediterranean , on the West with the Atlantick on the North with Oceanus Cantabricus , or the Spanish Seas , on the East with France , from which it is severed with certain Mountains , called Montes Pyrenei , or the Pyrenay hils .

If wee should enquire into the times that were before the comming of the Carthaginians and Romanes into Spaine , wee shall finde nothing but that which is either fabulous , or neere to fables : The Originall names of the Count●ey of Spain . here it was first called Iberia , ab Ibero slumine , afterwards Hispania , ab Hispano , wee may take as a tradition ; but their Gargoris , their Habis , their Geryon exceed beliefe of any , but those that will take all reports on trust . It is certaine that the Syrians planted a Colony there in the Isle of Gades , corruptly now called Cadiz , or Cales : These troubled by their Neighbours desired aid of the Carthaginians , a flourishing neighbour commonwealth , descended of the Syrians , as well as themselves , who sent first to defend the Gaditanes against their neighbours , afterwards heartned on by their successe in their first Expedition ; these Cathaginians , Carthaginians sent to defend the Gaditanes . successively sent thither three Captains , Hamilcar , Hasdrubal and Hannibal , who for the most part subdued the Province , and held it , till by Scipio's and the Romane Forces , they were dispossessed of it : Yet for many years after , the fortunes of the Romanes stucke as it were in the subduing of that Province , so that from the time of the second Punick War , untill the time of Augustus , they had businesse made them in that Countrey continually , neither could they till then bring it peaceably into the forme of a Province . Spain once a Province of the Roman Empire

It continued a Province of the Romane Empire untill the time of Honorius the Emperour in whose dayes the Vandalls came in●o it , conquering and making it theirs ; then the Gothes ( the Vandalls either driven out , or called over into Africke ) entring , erected there a Kingdome , which flourished for many yeeres , Saracens & M●●●es er●cted it a Kingdome . till by the comming of the Saracens and Moores , their Kingdome was broken , who setling themselves in Spaine , erected a Kingdome , changed the names of many places and Rivers , and gave them new names , such as they retaine to this day , and continued for the space of some hundred of years mighty in that Countrey , till they were first subdued by Ferdinand : They were utter●y expelled by Philip the Third . afterwards , and that now lately utterly expelled by Philip the Third .

After the comming in of these Africans , in this Countrey there were many Kingdomes , as the Kingdome of Portugall toward the West ; the Kingdom of Granado toward the South ; the Kingdome of Navarre and Arragon , toward the East ; and the Kingdome of Castile in the middle of the Land : but the whole Dominion is now under the King of Spain . Spain in former 〈◊〉 12 sev●●all Kingdomes .

As Damianus a Goes doth write in that Treatise intituled , Hispani● , there were in times past twelve several Kingdomes in Spain , which hee nameth thus : Castellae antiquae & novae , Leonis Aragoniae , Portugalliae , Navar●ae , Granatae , Valentiae , Toleti , Galitiae , Algarbiorum , Murtiae , Cordubae : which is not to be wondred at , since in England , a farre lesse Country , there were in the time of the Saxons seven severall Kingdomes and Monarchies .

In the best Mappes of Spaine , the Armes of these severall Kingdomes do yet distinctly appeare : where for the Armes of Leons is given a Lion ; which manifestly argueth , that whereas by some it is called Regnum Legionis , that name is false , for it is Leonis , sutable thereunto : for the Armes of Castile is given a Castle , which was the cause that Iohn of Gaunt , sonne to Edward the Third King of England , did quarter with the Armes of England the Castle and the Lion , as having maried Constance daughter to Peter King of Castile ; and at this day the first and chiefe Coat of the King of Spain , is a Castle quartered with a Lion , in remembrance of the two Kingdomes of Castile and Leons .

In Corduba ( as in times past it was called ) standeth Andoluzia , neere unto which is the Island called properly Gades , but since , by deprivation of the word , Cadiz , and commonly Cales , which was lately surprized by the English . The Kingdome of Granada , Granada ●oo yeeres possessed by the Moores & Saracens which lyeth neerest to the Mediterranean , was by the space of seven hundred yeers possessed by the Moores and Saracens , who do confesse the Religion of Mahumet : the reason whereof Rodericus Toletanus in the third Book of his Story doth shew to be this ; Rodericus Toletanus that whereas the Saracens after Mahumets time , had spred themselves all along Africk , even unto the Western part of Barbary , a King of Spaine called Rodericus , employed ( in an Embassage to them ) one Iulian , a Nobleman of his , who by his wise demeanour , procured much reputation amongst the Moores ; but in the time of his service , the King Rodericus destoured the Daughter of the said Iulian ; which the Father tooke in such indignation , that hee procured those Saracens to come over into Spaine , that so he might be revenged on his King ; but when those barbarous people had once set foot in there , they could never be remooved , untill the time of Ferdinando and Elizabeth , King and Queen of Spain , about a hundred yeeres since . The Authour before named writeth , that before the comming of those Moores into Spaine the King Rodericus would needs open a part of a Palace , which had been shut long before , and had by discent from hand to hand beene forbidden to be entred by any : yet the King supposing there had beene great treasure therein , broke into it , but found nothing there , saving in a great Chest , the pictures of men , who resembled the proportion , Attire , and Armour of the Moores , and a Prophecie joyned therewithall , A strange and unexpected prophecie . that at that time , when the Pallace should be entred , such a people as was there resembled , should invade and spoile Spaine ; which fell out accordingly .

The Spaniards that now are , be a very mixt people , descended of the Gothes , which in former times possessed that Land , and of those Saracens and Iews , which are the basest people of the World .

Portugall added to the Kingdome of Spain . The Kingdome of Portugall did contain under it Regnum Algarbiorum , but both of them are now annexed unto Castile by the cunning of the King of Spaine , Philip the Second , who tooke the advantage after the death of Sebastian , who was slaine in Barbary , in the Yeere 1578. Then after him raigned Henry , who sometimes was Cardinall , and Vncle to Sebastian ; in whose time , although shew was made that it should be lawfully debated , unto whom the Crowne of Portugall did belong , yet Philip meaning to make sure work , did not so much respect the right , as by main force invaded , and since ( to the great griefe of the Portugals ) hath kept it . The chiefe City of Portugall is Lisbone , Lisbone the chief City of Portugall . called in Latine Olysippo , from whence those Navigations were advanced , by which the Portugals discovered so much of their South part of Africk , & of the East Indies , possessed by them to this day . The City from whence the Castilians do set forth their ships to the West Indies , is Sevill , Sevill . called in Latine Hispalis . Another great City in Spain is Toledo , Toledo . where the Archbishopricke is the richest spirituall dignity of Christendome , the Papacy onely excepted .

The magnificent greatnes of Spain and Portugall . In the time of Damianus à Goes , there were reckoned to be in Spain , foure Archbishoprickes of great worth , three other inferiour , and forty Bishopricks ; as also in Portugall , three Archbishoprickes , and eight Bishopricks . Hee reckoneth up also in Spaine ( besides the great Officers of the Crown ) 17 Dukes , 41 Marquesses , 87 Earles or Counts , & 9 Viscounts : as also in Portugall ( besides the Officers of the Crown ) six Dukes , 4 Marquesses , nineteen Earles , and one Vicount . In Spaine he saith are seven Vniversities . The Country is but dry , and so consequently barren , in comparison of some other places . What commodities it doth yeeld , it may be seen in the Treatise of Damianus a Goes , which hee calleth his Hispania .

Not onely this great and large Countrey heretofore divided into so many Kingdomes , is now under one absolute King , but that King also is Lord of many other Territories : as namely , of the Kingdome of Naples in Italy , and the Dutchy of Millaine , of the Isles of Sicily , Sardinia , Majorque , Minorque , Evisa , In the mid-land Sea ; of the Ilands of the Canaries in the Atlantique , besides divers strong Towns and goodly Havens in Barbary , within & without the Straits . On the back side of Africk he commands much on the Frontiery , besides the Islands adjoyning to the mayn Land . In the Western Indies he hath Mexico , Peru , Brasil , large Territories , with the Islands of the South , & the North Sea . And Philip the Second getting Portugall as a Dowry to that forc't Marriage , got also all the dependances of that Crown in Africke , the East Indies , and the Atlantique Sea , the Towns of Barbary and the East Indies willingly submitting themselves unto him , but the Terceras hee wonne by force at the first and second Expedition : so if we consider the huge tract of ground that is under this Kings Dominion , The Empery of the Kingdome of Spain the great●st in the Christian World . wee will say that the Empery of the King of Spain is in that respect the largest that now is , or ever was in the World .

Of France .

France how bounded . THE next Countrey is France , which is bounded on the West with the Pyrenie hils , on the North with the English Seas , on the East with Germany , on the South-east with the Alpe-hils , on the Southwest with the Mediterranean Sea .

The Kingdome of France is for one entire thing , France , o●● of the most absolute kingdomes of the World . one of the most rich and absolute Monarchies of the World , having both on the North and South side , the Sea standing very convenient for profit of Navigation , and the land it selfe being ordinarily very fruitfull . The consideration wherof caused Francis the first King of France , to compare this Kingdome alone , to all the Dominions and Seigniories of Charles the fifth Emperour : for when the Herauld of the sayd Charles , bidding Defiance to King Francis , did give his Majestie the title of Emperour of Germany , King of Castile , Arragon , Naples , Sicilie , &c. Francis commanded his Herauld to call him so often King of France , as the other had Titles by all his Countryes ; implying that France alone was of as much strength and worth , as all the Countries which the other had .

Concerning this Argument , see the warlike and politike Discourses of Monsieur de la Nove. He who writeth the Commentaries of Religion , and state of France , doth shew , that when there had beene of late in France , in the dayes of Francis the second , and Charles the ninth , three Civill warres , which had much ruinated the glory and beauty of that Kingdome , Civil wars in France . when a little before the great Massacre in the yeare one thousand five hundred seventy two , there had beene peace in that Country scant full two yeares , yet so great is the riches and happinesse of that Kingdome , that in that short time , all things were renewed and repaired againe , as if there had never beene any such desolation .

Revenue of the Crowne of France exceeding great . The Revenue of the Crowne of France is exceeding great , by reason of the Taxes and Impositions , which through the whole Kingdome are layd upon the subjects : for their Sizes and Toules doe exceed all Imposts and tributes of all the Princes of Christendome ; in as much as there are few things there used , but the King hath a commodity issuing out of them ; and not onely from matters of Luxury , as in other States , but from such things as be of necessity , as Flesh , Wood , Salt , &c. It is supposed at this day , that there be in the Kingdome thirty thousand men , who are Vnder-officers , and make a good part of their living by gathering of the Kings tribute : This is much increased no doubt in these latter times : but yet of old it was in so great measure , which caused that speech of Maximilian the Emperour , as Iohannes Aventinus witnesseth de Bello Turcico , who said , that the Emperour of Germany was Rex Regum , meaning that his Princes were so great men ; The King of Spaine was Rex hominum , because his people would obey their Prince in any reasonable moderation ; The King of England was Rex Diabolorum , because the subjects had there divers times deprived their Kings of their Crownes and dignitie : But the King of France was Rex asinorum , in as much as his people did beare very heavy burthens of taxes and impositions . In France the offices of Iustice bought and sold . In this Kingdome of France is one great miserie to the subjects , that the places and offices of Iustice are ordinarily bought and sold , the beginning whereof was this : Lewis the 12. who was called a Father of the Country , began to pay the debts of his predecessour Charles the 7. ( which were very great ) and intending to recover unto France the Dukedome of Millaine , and minding not to burden his people further than was need , thought it a good course to set at sale all the Offices of the Crowne ; but with the places of Iustice he did not meddle . But his successors after him tooke occasion also to make great profit of them , witnesse the Author , contra Machiavel . lib. 1. cap. 1. By the customes of that Countrey , The Custome of France for mustering and pressing Souldiers . the King of France hath not that absolute power to muster and presse out Souldiers , as in England , and some other places of Christendome the Princes have : But the manner is , when the King will set forward any Military Service , he sendeth abroad his Edicts , or causeth in Cities and good Townes , the Drum to be strucken up , and whosoever will voluntarily follow , he is enrolled . Notwithstanding he wanteth few Souldiers , because the Noble and Gentlemen of France , doe hold it their dutie , and highest honour , both to attend the King unto the warres , and to beare their own charges yearely for many moneths . The person of the King of France hath in former time beene reputed so sacred , that Guicciardine saith of them , that their people have regarded them in that respect of devotion , as if they had beene de mi-gods . And Machiavel in his Questions upon Livie , saith , that they doted so upon their Kings , that they thought every thing did become them which they did , and that nothing could be more disgracefull , than to give any intimation , that such or such a thing was not well done by their King . But this opinion is now much decayed ; the Princes of the bloud are in the next ranke under the King himselfe .

Paris the chiefe City of France . There be many and very rich goodly Cities in France , but the chiefest of all is Paris , called Lutetia , quasi Luto sita , as some have merrily spoken : which place is especially honoured , first by the presence of the King , most commonly keeping Court and residence there ; secondly , by the great store of goodly houses , whereof part belong to Noble men , and part are houses of Religion ; thirdly , by the Vniversity which is incomparably the greatest , most ancient , and best filled of all France : fourthly , in that it is the chiefe Parliament City of that Kingdome , without the ratification of which Parliament at Paris , Edicts and Proclamations comming from the King , are not held authenticall ; fiftly , by the great traffique of all kinde of Merchandize , which is used in that place .

The Parliament Cities in France , are places where their Termes are kept , and in severall provinces are 7. unto which the causes of inferiour Courts within their distinct Provinces , may be brought by appeale ; but the Parliament of Paris hath that prerogative , that appeales from all Courts of the Kingdome , doe lie there . That which we call our Parliament in England , is amongst them tearmed Conventus Ordinum , or the States .

The kingdome of France divided into three parts . France in ancient time ( as Casar reporteth in the first of his Commentaries ) was divided into three parts ; Aquitania , which was towards the West ; Celtica , towards the North and West ; and Belgica which is towards the North. Belgium is sometime called Gallia inferior , and sometimes Germania inferior , but wee commonly call it the Low-Countries : the governement whereof at this day , is not at all under France , but Gallia Celtica , and Aquitania , are under the French King .

Gaules , the ancient inhabitants of France . The ancient inhabitants of this Countrey , were the Gaules , who possessed not onely all that we now call France , being the greatest part of that the Romans called Gallia Transalpina , but also a good part of Italy , which they call Gallia Cisalpina , a people whose beginnings are unknowne : this of them is certaine , that they were a Nation of valour ; for they not onely sackt Rome , but also carried their conquering armes into Greece , where they sate down , and were called by the name of Gallogrecians , or Galathians .

Some report also that they entred into Spaine , and subdued and inhabited that part which was called Lusitania , now Portugallia ; but howsoever their former victories and greatnesse , they were by Julius Caesar subdued , and made a province of the people of Rome , and so continued under the Roman Empire till about foure hundred yeares after Christ , when in the ruine and dismembring of the Roman Empire , the French invaded Gaule , and erected a Monarchie , which hath continued to this day in the succession of sixty foure Kings , of three severall races ; that is to say , the Merovingians , Carolovingians , and Capevingians , about twelve hundred yeares , and now flourisheth under Lewis the 13. the now raigning King of France .

Although the French have done many things worthily out of their owne Countrey , in the East against the Saracens , although they have for a while held Sicily , the Kingdome of Naples , and the Dutchy of Millaine , yet it hath been observed of them , that they could never make good their footing beyond the Alps , France one of the strongest kingdomes in all Europe . or in other forraigne Regions , howbeit in it selfe France is one of the strongest kingdomes in all Europe at this day .

That which wee commonly call the Low-Countries , Of the Low Countries , containing 17 severall Provinces . containeth seventeene severall Provinces , wherof the most part have severall Titles and Governours , as the Dukedome of Brabant , the Earledome of Flanders , &c. Of which the inheritance at severall times did fall on Daughters , who being married unto the Heyre of some of the other Provinces , did in the end bring the whole Country into one entire governement , which was commonly called by the name of the Dukedome of Burgundy ; and yet so , that in the uniting of them together , it was by composition agreed , that the severall Provinces should retaine their severall ancient lawes and liberties , which is the reason yeelded , why some of those Provinces in our age thinke themselves freed from obedience unto the King of Spaine , Note . unto whom by inheritance they did descend , because he hath violated their liberties , to the keeping wherof , at the first composition , he was bound . When this whole Country did belong unto the Crowne of France , the Dukedome of Burgundy was bestowed by Philip de Valois , King of France , unto Iohn de Valois a yonger sonne of his , from whom by descent it came at last to Charles the Bold , otherwise Proud , Duke of Burgundy , who left one onely daughter , and she was married to Maximilian the Emperour , of the house of Austria , from whom the inheritance descended unto Charles the fifth , Emperour , who yeelding it over to his sonne Philip the second , did charge him to intreat that people well ; which he forgetting to doe , under pretence of rooting out the profession of Religion , did intangle himselfe , and all that Country with a very long , bloudy , and wearisome warre .

The riches of the States in Generall . There is no part of Europe , which for the quantity of the ground , doth yeeld so much riches and commodity , as the Low-Countries doe , besides their infinite store of shipping , wherein they exceede any Prince of Christendome . They were in time past accounted a very heavy dull people , and unfit for the wars , but their continuall combating with the Spaniards , hath made them now very ingenuous , full of action , and managers of great causes appertaining to fights , The names of the 17. Provinces . either by Sea or Land . The 17. Provinces are these ; Brabant , Gelderland , Artois , Valencois , Luxenburg , Flaunders , Henault , Lile , Namurce , Holland , Zeland , Tornabum , Tornacetium , Mechlin , Vtrecht , and the East and West Freezeland .

France hath many petty governments that doe border upon it ; as the Dukedome of Savoy , the State of the Switzers , the Dukedome of Loraine , the Burgundians , or Walloons , against all which , the King is forced to keep his frontier Towns .

The Salike Law . There is nothing more famous in this kingdome , than the Salique Law , whereby it is provided , that no woman , nor the heire of her ( as in her right ) shall injoy the Crown of France , but it goeth alwayes to the heire male .

The author of the Commentaries against Machiavel , reputeth it a great blessing of God , that they have the Salique law in France ; and that not so much ( saith he ) because women by the infirmity of their sex are unfit to governe , for therein many men who have enjoyed kingdomes , have been , and are very defective : but because by that meanes the Crowne of France is never indangered by marriage of a forraigner , to come under the subjection of a stranger . And this is the opinion of Philip de Comines , in the 8. Booke of his Commentaries . This Law is very ancient among them , so that it cannot certainly be defined when it was enacted : but by vertue therof , By this law E●w the 3. King of England , was put by the Crowne of France . Edward the third King of England , and his Heyres were cut off from inheriting the Crowne of France , whereunto by marriage of a daughter hee was heire in generall . And by reason of this Law , Henry the fourth , late King of France , rather injoyed that Dominion , than the Sonne of the Duke of Loraine , who was neerer of bloud by descending from the Elder daughter of King Henry the second .

The Switzers government . The Switzers are a people called in old time Helvetij , who have no Noblemen , or Gentlemen among them , but onely the Citizens of their Townes , the yearely Officers whereof , and their Councell , do governe their State .

23 Cities or Cantons in Switzerland . There are in Switzerland , 23 Cities or Townes , which they call their Canton ; although some rather thinke that name properly doth signifie the Rulers of those townes ; and of them some doe retaine to this day the Romish Religion , but some others have embraced the Gospell . The Countrey where they live , is not very fertile , and being far from any Seas , they have no vent for their people , but by sending them forth as hired Souldiers , which for their pay doe fight oftentimes in Italy and France and sometimes in Germany . Geneva . Neare unto one part of them , standeth Geneva , which is challenged by the Duke of Savoy , to have heretofore belonged to his Dominion ; but they pretend themselves to be a free City ; and by the helpe of Protestant Princes , but especially by some of the Helvetians , doe so maintaine it . In this place there is a rare Law , that if any malefactor , A rare and excellent Law . who hath fled out of his owne Country , be convinced of any grievous crime , he suffereth there , as if he were in his owne Countrey : which they are forced to doe , because their Cities would be full of all sorts of Runnagates , in as much as they stand on the Confines of divers Princes and States .

Of Germany .

THe next Countrey unto France on the East side , is Germany , Germany how bounded . which is bounded on the West with France , and the Low-Countries ; on the North with Denmarke , and the Danish Seas ; on the East with Prussia , Polonia , and Hungary ; on the South East , with Istria and Jllyricum ; on the South with the Alpe-hils , and with Italy .

The Governour generall of this Country , The Emprour governour of Germany . Who be the 7. Electors . is called the Emperour of Germany , who is chosen by three spirituall Princes ; the Archbishop of Colen , called Coloniensis , the Archbishop of Ments , called Moguntinus , and the Archbishop of Trevers , called Treverensis ; and three temporall Princes , the Duke of Saxony , the Marquesse of Brandenburge , and the Count Palatine of Rhene : which if they cannot agree , as to make a Major part in their Election , then thè King of Bohemia hath also a voyce , whereof it commeth to be sayd , that there be seven Princes Electors of the Empire .

His manner of Election . The manner of the choise of the Emperour , was established by a decree , which is commonly called Bulla aurea , which was made by Charles the 4. Emperour of Germany , and King of Bohemia , wherin he doth set downe all the circumstances of the Election of the Emperour , and appointeth the King of Bohemia to be Sacri Imperij , Archipincerna , which is the Cup-bearer ;

The 3. Bishops of Colen , Ments , and Trevers , to bee the Archchancellours of the three severall parts of the Empire ; the Count Palatine of the Rhene , to be Sacri Imperij Archidapifer , which should have the setting on of the first dish , the Duke of Saxony , to be Sacri imperij Archimariscallus , whose office is to beare the sword ; and the Marquesse of Brandenburg , to be Sacri Imperij Archi-Camerarius , or great Chamberlaine ; all which offices they supply on the day of the Emperours Coronation .

The Empire went sometimes by succession , and sometimes by election . It appeares by all the Romane Stories , that in times past the Empire went sometimes by succession , as unto the sons of Constantine , and Theodosius , sometimes by election , and that either of the Senate , or of the Souldiers , who oftentimes also in mutiny did elect men unworthy , yet such as fitted their purpose : But now of late , the Electors do choose some Prince of Christendome , who hath otherwise a Dominion of his owne , which may helpe to back out the Empire , and therein of late hath appeared the great cunning of that which we call The house of Austria , whose greatest title within this 300. yeares , was to be a meane Count of a meane place , namely , the County of Haspurg . But since that time , they have so planted and strengthened themselves , that there have beene seven or eight Emperours lately of that family ; but the Empire is not tyed unto them , as may appeare by the possibility , which the Duke of Saxony , and Francis the great King of France , had to ascend to that dignity .

When Charles the fift was chosen Emperour , one of the meanes whereby the possession hath beene continued to that house , hath beene the electing of some one to bee Rex Romanorum , whilest another of his Family was Emperour , which Charles the fift effected in his life time for his brother Ferdinandus , who after succeeded him ; Ferdinand Emperour . and that hath been the attempt of Albertus late Cardinall , and now Archduke of Austria , that he might be established in the hope of the Empire , during the life of his brother Rodolphus the Second , now Emperour and King of Bohemia : Rex Romanorum is he , who is farre already invested in title to the Empire , so that upon the death , resignation , or deposition of the then being Emperour , he is immediatly to succeed .

Hee who is now Emperour of Germanie , is called Caesar , or Romani Imperij Imperator , Caesar , or Romans Imperij Imperator . but very improperly , in as much as the case is farre different from that which was when the Romane Empire did flourish : for then the Territories thereof were very great , all under the regiment of one man , unlesse it pleased him to associate to himselfe some other . The Empire divided by Theodosius . But Theodosius did divide the Empire into two Soveraignties , which were called the East and West Empires , and made Constantinople to be the chiefe Seat of Arcadias , one of his Sonnes , and Rome to be the principall Citie of Honorius the other ; which Westerne Empire continued in his glory but a while ; for the Gothes and Lombards , and other barbarous people , did both over-run it , and as good as extinguish it ; in the which case it continued to the dayes of Charles the Great , who revived it againe : but although there was some shew of Dominion belonging unto him in Italy , yet his principall residence was in France , and his Successours after him removed it into Germany : A great policy in the Bishops of Rome . so that properly he is now to be called Imperator Germanorum . It was a great policy of the Bishops of Rome , that the Emperour was wrought to leave Jtaly , and keepe himself in Germany : for the Popes did not like to have a strong Neighbour so neer , who might at his pleasure chastise or depose them , if hee saw good . And the cunning of those Popes was such also , that they weakned the State of the Emperour exceeding much in Germany , by giving great exemptions to the Princes thereof , Munsters complaint . in so much that Munster rightly complaineth .

The Emperour beareth the Spread-Eagle with two heads , noting the East and West Empire : ( but saith hee ) one of the heads is quite pulled off ; and so be almost all the Feathers ; and in the other Head , although life remayneth , yet there is little spirit or vigour .

Surius in his Commentaries of the yeare 1530 reporteth , that to the Emperour of Germany belongeth three Crownes : the one of Silver , which intendeth the Kingdome of Germany ; the second of Iron , which is for the Kingdome of Lombardy , and the third of Gold , Most of the Princes of Germany take on them as absolute Governours which is for the Sacred Romane Empire .

In Germany all are at a kinde of commandement of the Emperour : but most of the Princes otherwise take on them as absolute Governours in their Dominions : so that they have liberty of Religion ; they do make Lawes , they do raise souldiers , they doe stampe money with their owne Pictures as absolute Princes : so doth the Duke of Saxony , the Archbishop of Colen , & the rest .

The Princes of Germany came to that great strength of theirs , by meanes of a base and inferiour man , How they came by that great strength . who aspiring to the Empire ( wherof hee was unworthy ) was content to release unto the Princes almost all kinde of their service and dutie ; so that their subjection since that time , is little more than Titulary , yeelding onely very small maintenance to the Empire , either in Tribute , Souldiers , or otherwise : and albeit sometimes they refuse not to come by themselves , or their Agents , to the Diets and Parliaments holden by the Emperour , yet that is as much for the safeguard of themselves from the invasion of the Turke , who is not farre from them , as for any other respect ; and the pay which they allow in such cases is rather held by them to be a contribution , than any imposition to be admitted by duty : and yet there is extant a Book where the particulars are mentioned , how the Princes and free Cities are bound to maintaine upon their owne charge three thousand eight hundred forty two Horses , and sixteene thousand two hundred Foot , for the service of the Emperour , when he shall see cause ; but how small a triffle is that in respect of the strength of so huge a Countrey ?

The Princes themselves are so strong many of them , that they dare encounter with any who oppugne them , insomuch that whereas Charles the Fift , was doubtlesse the greatest Emperour that had beene from the dayes of Charles the Great ; yet the Duke of Saxony , The strength of the Princes of Germany . and the Lantsgrave of Hassia , with some few Cities which were confederate with them , did dare to oppose themselves against the said Charles ; and entring the field with him , did oftentimes put him to great inconveniences : yea , it is supposed by some , that howsoever hee had a hand upon these two , yet his inability to match the ruffling of some of those Princes , was not the least cause , why hee resigned the Empire to his Brother Ferdinando .

The manner of Germany is , that the Title of Nobility which is in the Father , The titles of their Nobility . commonly is imparted to all the sonnes : so that every Sonne of a Duke of Saxony , is called Duke of Saxony ; and every Childe of the Count of Mansfield , is honoured by the name of Count or Countesse of Mansfield : but in the eldest House the chiefe livelihood doth remayne , for keeping upright the dignity of the Family .

Free States and Cities . There are also free States and Cities , which have the same authority , as Argentine , Frankeford , and other .

This is to be noted of the Germanes , that they may boast this above other more Westernly Nations of Europe , A note worthy of observation . that they are an unmixed Nation : for whereas the Lombards and Gothes at severall times have set downe in Italy , and mixed themselves with the people thereof ; the Gothes , Vandals , and Saracens in Spaine , the Francks in Gaule , or France , and the Normans also ; the Saxons , Angles , Danes , and Normans in Great Brittaine ; they have beene free from such inundation and mixture ; yea , many of the people that have inflicted and inhabited these other Nations have come from thence , so that therein Germany hath an advantage of these other Nations that have been subject hereunto .

Of Italie .

ON the South side of the Alpes and Germany lyeth Jtaly , Situation of Italy . stretching it selfe out at length toward the South & East . It hath on the Southside , the Iland of Sicilia ; on the East , that part of the Mediterranean , which is called Mare Adriaticum , or Mare superum , which severeth Italy from Graecia : on the Westside that part of the Mediterranean , which is called Mare Tyrrhenum , or Mare Inferum ; and the upper or more Northerne part of it neere Liguria , Mare Ligusticum .

This Country for the figure therof , is by some likened unto a long leafe of a tree . It hath in the middle of it , which goeth all in length a mighty Mountain , named Mons Apenuinus , which is likened unto the Spina , or Ridge-bone of the backe . Out of this Hill springeth divers Rivers , which run on both sides of it , into the Adriatick , and Tyrrhene or Tuscane Seas .

As in other Countries , so in Italy in times past , there were divers severall people , and severall Provinces , Jtaly divided into foure parts . like our Shires in England , and so there be at this day : but the mayn division of Italy is properly into ●oure parts , as in our age we do account it . The first Lombardy , which ●yeth to the North. The second Tuscane , which boundeth toward ●he Mediterranean Sea , which way Corsica the Iland lyeth . The third is ●he Land of the Church , which is the Territory of the Bishop of Rome , ●nd containeth in it that which is ●alled Romania ; The fourth is Na●les ; and in this division now is all ●taly comprehended .

The North part of this Italy is that , which in ancient time was called Gallia Togata , or Gallia Cisalpina , ●nhabited then by Frenchmen . It is ●ow called Longobardia , or Lom●ardy , wherein stand many rich Governments , vernmēts , as the Dukedom of Millain , of Mantua , of Florence , and other . It is for the pleasantnesse therof , in respect of the soyle , ayre , waters , and great variety of wines , and fruits , Lombardy the Garden of God . likened now by some to Paradice , or the Garden of God .

In this Italy , which was heretofore one entire government , in the flourishing estate of the Romans , are now many absolute States and Princedomes , by the great policy o● the Bishop of Rome , The policy of the Bishops of Rome . who though● it the best way to make himself great , to weaken the Empire . So h● hath not onely driven the Emperou● out of all Joaly into Germany , bu● hath diminished his Majesty i● both , by making so many petty governments , which hold themselue● soveraigne Rulers , without relatio● to any other .

The States of Venice . As there are many States in Italy so one of the chiefest are the Venetians , called Resp. Venetorum , or th● State of Venice , because they are no●● governed by any one , but by the● Senate & Gentlemen , although they have a Duke with whose stampe their mony is coyned , and in whose name all their executions of Iustice are done . But this Duke is every way limited by the State .

City of Venice . This City of Venice , which joyneth to a corner of Lombardy , standeth in Aestuarium , or shallow of earth , in the North part of the Adriaticke Sea , so safely , that it is held invincible . There is in it but one street of firme Land ; into the other , the Sea doth flow at every tide . They have been a great & rich State , not onely ●ossessing much in Italy , as Padua their Vniversity , and other things which still they do , but a great part of Illiricum , & many rich Ilands in the Mediterraneum , as Candy called commonly Creta , Cyprus , Zazin●hus , and other .

But Cyprus was taken from them a ●ittle before that fight at Sea , wherin Don Iohn of Austria , together with ●he Venetians , had so renowned a vi●tory against the Turk , at the fight ●eer Lepanto .

The Venetians impoverished . The impoverishing of their State hath partly bin by the incroching of the Turk , but especially by the decaying of that traffique which they had to Alexandria in Egypt for their Spices , and other riches of Persia , Arabia , and the East Indies , since the course of the Portugals to those Eastern Countries hath been by Sea by the backside of Africa .

These Venetians , which in time past were great warriours , do now altogether decline enmity or hostility with all other Princes adjoyning and therfore by all means do take u● quarrels , and cease controversies b● wisdome and patience , temporizin● with the Turk , the King of Spain and the Emperour , who are mos● like to offend them .

The manner of their governmen● and the excellent course which the● have in chusing their Duke , is written by Contarenus , The excelleney of their government . and some othe● of their Countrymen . When the● do make any warres , they seldom● send forth any General of their own but entertaine some Prince of Italy , who is renowned for the warres .

In Lombardy standeth Millain . In Lombardy standeth also the Dukedom of Millain , a most rich & pleasant thing , which sometime had beene governed by a Duke of their own , but of late hath been possessed by the Spaniard , & sometime by the French , and is now in the government & possession of the K. of Spain .

Tuscany . Florence . In Tuscany , the chiefe City , and Commander of all the rest , is Florence , where is supposed to be the best language of Italy , called the vulgar Italian , and the most circumspect policy of all the governments of Christendome , which hath much bin increased since the time of Machiavel , who was Secretary or Recorder to that State . This was in times past a free City , but of late by the policy of the Family of the Medices , it is brought under the subjection of a Duke , which raigneth as an absosute Prince ; and by little and little , hath so incroched on his own Citizens and Neighbours round about him , that hee hath gotten to be called ( and that not unworthily ) Magnus Dux Hetruriae , or the great Duke of Tuscany . The great Duke of Tuscany . A great part of the rising of the Family of the Medices , which are now Dukes of Florence , may be ascribed to the cunning carriage of themselves ; but it hath been much advanced forward by their felicitie , in having two Popes together of that house , which were Leo the Tenth , and Clement the Seventh , who by all means laboured to stablish the government of their Country upon their kindred ; and it made not the least accesse thereunto , that affinity was contracted by them with the Kings of France , when Katherine de Medices , Neece to Pope Clement the Seventh , was married to the younger sonne of Francis the first , whose elder brother dying , that younger came to be King of France , by the name of Henry the Second : for as in the time of her Husband she layd the foundation of her aspiring , so after the death of the sayd husband , when she bare the name of the Queene Mother . This Queen Mother swayed all at her pleasure in France during the successive raigne of her three sonnes , Francis the Second , Charles the ninth , and Henry the third : in all which time , no doubt , she promoted Florence and the Florentines to her uttermost .

A great part of Italy under the Bishop of Rome . A good part of Italy is under the Bishop of Rome , which is commonly called , The land of the Church ; where the Pope is a Prince absolute , not only spirituall as elsewhere hee claymeth , but also temporall , making Lawes , requiring Tribute , raising Souldiers , & executing Iustice as a Monarch .

The Bishops of Rome do pretend , that Constantine the Great did bestow upon them the City of Rome , together with divers other Cities and Towns , neere adjoyning , and the Demeans of them all to be as the Patrimony of Saint Peter , as many times they do tearme it . But Laurentius Valla , in his set Treatise of this argument , hath displayed the falshood of that pretence ; and in truth , the greatnesse of the Popes hath risen first by Phocas , who killing his Master the Emperour of Rome , The manner of the rising of the Popes greatnesse . and being favoured by the Bishop of that Sea , and so aspiring himself to the Empire , did in recompence thereof , suffer the Bishop of Rome to be proclaimed Vniversall Bishop ; and of likelihood gave unto him somewhat to maintain his estate . And afterward King Pipin of France , and Charles the Great his sonne , getting ( by means of the said Bishop ) the Kingdome of France , and the one of them to the Empire , did bestow good possessions upon the Papacy ; and since that time the Popes have had so much wit , as by destruction of the Princes of Italy , by encroaching on the favour of others , the great Monarchs of Europe , and by their warres and other devices , to keepe and increase that Land of the Church , which in our time is well inlarged by the policy of Clement the Eighth , late Pope , who hath procured that the Dukedome of Ferrara , is or shal be shortly added to his Dominion .

Rome the chief residency of the Pope . The chief residence of the Bishop of Rome , is Rome it selfe , which was first founded by Romulus , and afterwards so increased by others , who succeeded him , that it was built upon seven hils , & hath had only raigning in it seven Kings ; and hath been ruled by seven severall sorts of chief government : that is , Kings , Consuls , Decem-viri , Tribunes of the people , Dictators , Emperours , and Popes .

They first incroached on the neighbours about them in Italy , afterwards on all Italy , Sicily , & some of the Ilands , till at length it proved to be the Lady and chief Mistresse of the world : whose incredible wealth and greatnes in men , treasure , shipping , and armour , was so huge , that it did even sink under the wealth of it self . Wherupon after divers civill wars , as between Marius and Sylla , Pompey and Caesar , with others , it was at length revoked unto one absolute and Imperiall government . The Majesty wherof notwithstanding was afterward somewhat impayred by the building of Constantinople , which was erected , or rather inlarged by Constantine . the Great , and called Nova Roma . But when the division was made of the East and West Empire , it received a greater blow , yet the main overthrow of it was , when the Gothes and Vandals entred Italy , sacked it , and possessed it at their own pleasure ; so that it was ( for a time ) almost quite forsaken , and had no inhabitants , till the Bishops of Rome did make means to gather together some to people it againe : and since those times , a good part of the old building upon the Hils , hath beene quite decayed & ruinated , and that Rome which now may be called ( in comparison of the old ) new Romes is built on a lower ground , where the place was , which in times past was termed Campus Martius , very neer unto Tyber the River , which too well appeareth by the sudden inundation of that Tyber ; destroying and spoyling , men , cattell , and houses , as very lately to their great losse was experimented .

The Bishops of Rome , as sometimes for their pleasure or profit , they do withdraw themselves unto Bologna , or some other Townes of Italy : so the time was when they removed their court unto Avignon a City in France , standing neer the Mediterranean soa , and not far from Marsiles in Province , where continuing for the space of seventy yeers , they so afflicted the Citie of Rome , for lack of resort ( which is very great when the Pope is there ) that the Italians to this day do remember that time by the name of the Captivity of Babylon , which continued ( as appeareth by the Scripture ) for seventy yeeres . Who so looketh on the description laid down by the Holy Ghost in the Revelation shall see , that the Whore of Babylon there mentioned , can be understood of no place , but the Citie of Rome .

In the South part of Italy lyeth the Kingdome of Naples , which is a Country very rich , Nap'es lyeth in the South part of Italy . and full of all kind of pleasure , abundant in Nobility ; whereof commeth to be said that Proverb , Naples for Nobilitie , Rome for Religion , Millain for Beauty , Florence for Policie , and Venice for Riches .

This was heretofore ruled by a King of their own , till the time of Ioane Queene of Naples , who by deed of gift , did first grant that Kingdom to the Kings of Arragon in Spain ; and afterward by will , with a revocation of the former Grant , did bequeath it to the house of Anjoy in France . Since which time the Kingdome of Naples hath sometimes been in the hands of the Spaniard , somtimes possessed by the French , and is now under the King of Spain : The Dukedome of Calabria . unto this is annexed also the Dukedome of Calabria .

This Kingdome of Naples lyeth so neere to some part of Graecia , which is now in possession of the Turke , that it may justly be feared , lest at some time or other , the said Turke should make an invasion thereunto , as indeed hee hath offered divers times , and sometimes hath landed men to the great terrour of all Italy : but for the preventing of that mischiefe , the King of Spain is inforced to keep a good Fleet of Gallies continually at Otranto , where is the neerest passage from Italie , into Greece . I his part of Italie was it which in times past was named Magna Graecia , but in later ages it hath been unproperly called one of the Sicilies , which was reprooved long since by Aeneas Sylvius , in his twelfth Epistle ; and yet till of late time , the Kings of Spain have been tearmed Kings of both the Sicilies .

Divers Princedomes and States of Italy . There be moreover in Jtaly many other Princedomes and States , as the Dukedom of Ferrara , the Dukedome of Mantua , the Dukedome of Vrbine , the Dukedome of Parma and Placentia , the State of Luca , the State of Genua , commonly called the Genowayes , which are governed by their Senate , but have a Duke as they have at Venice . There be also some other , by which means the glory and strength of Italy is decayed .

Of Denmarke , Sweden , and Norway .

AS Italy lyeth on the South side of Germany , Denmars situation . so Denmark lieth on the North ; into the middle of which Land , the Sea breaketh in by a place called the Sound . The Impost of which passage bringeth great riches , as an ordinary tribute unto the King of Denmark . This is a Kingdome , and ruled by an absolute Governour .

On the North and East side of Denmarke , Sweden . lyeth Suezia , commonly called Sweden , or Swethen ; which is also a Kingdome of it self : Where the King professeth himselfe to be Rex Suecorum , Gothorum & Vandalorum : Wherby we may know that the Gothes and Vandals , which in times past did waste Jtaly , and other Nations of Christendom , did come out of this Country .

This whole Country which containeth in it Norvegia , Suezia , and some part of Denmarke , is Peninsula , being very much compassed about with the Sea : and this is it , which in Olaus Magnus & Joannes Magnus , is termed Archiepiscopus Vpsalensis , as also in some of the more ancient Writers , is called Scandinavia : on the North and West side of Sweden , lyeth Norvegia , Norvegia , or Norway . or Norway , which is at this day under the government of the King of Denmarke , although heretofore it hath been a free Kingdome of it self .

Beyond Norway toward Russia , on the Northern Sea lyeth Scrichivia , beyond that Biarmia , then Hapia , or Hapland , Hapland . a poore and cold Countrey , neere Sinus Boddicus : whereof there is little to be spoken , but that it is said to be subject to the great Knez or Duke of Muscovie . But of these afterwards .

Within the Sound , on the East part of the Sea , Dantzike . lyeth Dantzike , about which are the Townes of the Haustmen , Confederates and Allies unto the King of Denmarke .

These are very rich towns , by reason of Merchandize which downe the rivers they receive out of Polonia , and transport into other parts of Christendome , through the Sound of the King of Denmarke . They live as free people , keeping amity & entercourse with the Kings of Sweden and Denmark , and with the Emperour of Germany : but within these late yeers , Steven Bacour , the King of Polon , doth challenge them to be members of his Crown and Dignity , and by warre forced them to capitulate with him .

There is no great thing to be noted in these Countries ; but that from Denmarke commeth much corne , to the supply of other parts of Christendome ; and that from all these Countries , is brought great furniture for warre , or for shipping ; Riches of Denmarke . as Masts , Cables , Steele , Saddles , Armour , Gunpowder , and the like : And that in the seas adjoyning to these parts , there are fishes of much more monstrous shape than elsewhere are to be found . The people of those Countries are by their profession Lutherans for Religion . Their Religion .

Of Russia , or Moscovia .

Russia situate . ON the East side of Sweden , beginneth the Dominion of the Emperor of Russia , although Russia , or Moscovia it selfe , doe lie somewhat more into the East , which is a great and mighty Monarchy , extending it selfe even from Lapland and Finmarke , many thousand miles in length , unto the Caspian sea : so that it containeth in it a great part of Europe , and much of Asia also .

Emperour of Russia . The governour there , calleth himselfe Emperour of Russia , Great Duke of Moscovia , with many other titles of princedomes and Cities , whose Dominion was very much inlarged by the Emperour not long since dead , whom in Russia they call Iuan Vasiliwich , in the Latine , Iohannes Basilides , who raigning long , and being fortunate in warre , did very much inlarge this mighty Dominion .

This man as in his younger daies he was very fortunate , and added very much unto the glory of his ancestors , winning something from the Tartars , and something from the Christians in Livonia , Lituania , and other confines of his countrey : so in his latter age growing more unweldy and lesse beloved of his subjects , hee proved as unfortunate , whereby it came to passe , that Stephen Bacour King of Polone , had a very great hand of him , winning from him large Provinces , which he before had conquered . Gregory the thirteenth , Bishop of Rome , thinking by his intreaty for peace betweene those two Princes , to have woon the whole Russian Monarchy to the subjection and acknowledgment of the Papacy , Possevinus a Iesuite sent by the Pope to the Emperour . sent Robertus Possevinus , a Iesuite , ( but yet a great States-man ) as his agent to take up controversies , betweene the Muscovite , and the King of Polone , who prevailed so farre , as that he drew them to tolerable conditions , for both parties ; but when he began to exhort him to the accepting of the Romish faith , the Emperour being therefore informed by the English Ambassadors ( who he very much favoured , for his Lady , and Mistresse , Queene Elizabeths sake ) that the Bishop of Rome was a proud Prelate , and would exercise his pretended authority so far , as to make Kings and Princes hold his stirrop , yea to kisse his very feet , he utterly and with much scorne rejected all obedience to him . Whereunto , when Possevinus did reply , A fine excuse for the Popes pride that the Princes of Europe indeed in acknowledgement of their subjection to him , as the Vicar of Christ , and successour of S. Peter , did offer him that service , as to kisse his feet , but that the Pope remembring himselfe to be a mortall man , did not take that honour as due unto himselfe , but did use to have on his Pantophle the Crucifixe , or Picture of Christ , hanging upon the Crosse , and that in truth he would have the reverence done thereunto : the Emperour did grow into an exceeding rage , reputing his pride to bee so much the greater , when he would put the Crucifixe upon his shooe ; The Emperours rage against the Pope . in as much as the Russians doe hold , that so holy a thing as that is highly prophaned , if any resemblance of it be worne but above the girdle .

Possevinus , in a treatise written of his Embassage into that Countrey , where hee discourseth this whole matter , Possevinus feare of the Emperour . confesseth , that hee was much afraid , lest the Emperour would have strucken him , and beaten out his braines with a shrewd staffe which then hee had in his hands , & did ordinarily carry with him : and he had the more reason so to feare , because that Prince was such a tyrant , that he had not onely slaine , and with cruell torture put to death very many of his subjects , and Nobility before , shewing himselfe more brutishly cruel to them , than ever Nero and Caligula were among the Romans ; but he had with his owne hands , and with the same staffe , upon a small occasion of anger , killed his eldest sonne , who should have succeeded him in his whole Empire .

The people of this countrey , are rude and unlearned , Chiefe people rude and unlearned . so that there is very little or no knowledge amongst them of any liberall or ingenuous Art ; yea their very Priests & Monks ( wherof they have many ) are almost unlettered , so that they can hardly do any thing more than reade their ordinary service : And the rest of the people are , by reason of their ignorant education , dull and uncapable of any high understanding ; but very superstitious , having many ceremonies , and Idolatrous Solemnities ; as the consecrating of their Rivers , by their Patriarch at one time of the yeare , when they thinke themselves much sanctified by the receiving of those hallowed waters ; yea , and they bathe their Horses and Cattell in them ; and also the burying of most of their people with a paire of Shooes on their feet , as supposing that they have a long journey to goe , and a letter in their hand to S. Nicholas , whom they reverence as a speciall Saint , and thinke that he may give them entertainement , for their readier admission into heaven .

The Muscovites generally have received the Christian Faith ; but yet so , that rather they doe hold of the Greeke , Difference betweene the Greeke and Latin Church . and the Easterne , then of the Westerne Roman Church .

The doctrines wherin the Greek Church differs from the Latine , are these : First they hold that the holy Ghost proceeds from the Father alone , and not from the Sonne . Secondly , that the Bishop of Rome is not the universall Bishop . Thirdly , that there is no Purgation . Fourthly their Priests doe marry ; and fiftly they doe differ in divers of their ceremonies , as in having foure Lents in the yeere , whereof they doe call our Lent , their great Lent .

At the time of the Councell of Florence , There was some shew made by the Agents of the Greeke Church , that they would have joyned in opinion with the Latines : but when they returned home , their Countrey-men would in no sort assent thereunto .

In the Northerne parts of the dominion of the Emperour of Russia , which have lately been joyned unto his territories , as specially Lapland , Biarmia , and thereabouts , The people of Lapland very heathenish . there are people so rude and heathenish , that ( as Olaus Magnus writeth of them ) looke whatsoever living thing they doe see in the morning at their going out of their doors , yea , if it be a Bird , or a worm , or some such other creeping thing , they doe yeeld a divine Worship , & Reverence thereunto for all that day , as if it were some inferiour God . Damianus a Goes hath written a pretty Treatise describing the manners of those Lappians : The greatest part of the Country of Russia is in the winter so exceeding cold , The extraordnary sharpnesse of the weather in winter . that both the Rivers are frozen over , the Land covered with snow , and such is the sharpenesse of the Ayre , that if any goe abroad bare faced , it causeth their flesh in a short time to rot , which befalleth to the fingers and toes of divers of them : therefore for a great part of winter , they live in Stoues and Hot-houses : and if they be occasioned to goe abroad , they use many Furs ; whereof there is great plenty in that Country , as also wood to make fire : but yet in the summer time , the face of the soyle , & the ayre is very strangely altered , insomuch that the Country seemeth hot , the Birds sing very merrily , & the trees ; grasse , & corn , in a short space do appeare so cheerfully , greene , and pleasant , that it is scant to be beleeved , but of them which have seene it .

Their building is most of wood , even in their chiefe citie of Mosco , Their buildings of wood . insomuch , that the Tartars ( who lie in the North-east of them ) breaking oft into their countries , even unto the very Mosco , doe set fire on their Cities , which by reason of their woodden buildings , are quickly destroyed .

Their government . The maner of government which of late yeers hath bin used in Russia , is very barbarous , & little lesse than tyrannous : for the Emperour that last was , did suffer his people to be kept in great servility , & permitted the Rulers & chiefe Officers at their pleasures , to pill & ransack the common sort ; but to no other end , but that himselfe might take occasion ( when he thought good ) to call them in question for their misdemeanor , and so fill his own coffers with fleecing of them : which was the same course the old Roman Emperor did use , calling the deputies of the Provinces by the name of Spunges , whose property is to sucke up water , but when it is full , then it selfe is crushed , and yeeldeth forth liquor for the behalfe of another .

The passage by Sea into this country . The passage by Sea into this country , which was wont to be through the Sound , and so afterward by land was first discovered by the English ; who with great danger of the frozen seas , did first adventure to sayle so far North , as to compasse Lapland , Finmark , Scricfinia & Biarmia , and so passing to the East by Noua Zembla , half the way almost to Cathaio , have entred the River called Ob , by which they disperse themselves for merchandize both by water and land , into the most parts of the Dominion of the Emperour of Russia .

The first attempt . The first attempt which was made by the English , for the entrance of Moscovia , by the North Seas , was in the dayes of King Edw. the 6. at which time the Merchants of London procuring leave of the King , did send forth Sir Hugh Willoby , with shipping and men , who went so far toward the North , that he coasted the corner of Scricfinia , & Biarmia , and so turned toward the East : but the weather proved so extream , the snowing so great , & the freezing of the water so vehement , that his ship was set fast in the Ice ; and there he & his people were frozen to death , and the next yeer some other comming from England , found both the Ship and their bodies in it , & a perfect remembrance in writing of all things which they had done & discovered ; where amongst the rest , mention was made of a Land which they had touched , which to this day ●s known by the name of Sir Hugh Villobies Land . Sir Hugh Willobies Land . The Merchants of London did not desist to pursue this discovery , but have so far prevailed , that they have reached one halfe of the way , toward the East part of Chyna , and Cathaio ; but the whole passage is not yet opened .

This Empire one of the greatest to the world . This Empire is at this day , one of the greatest dominions in the world , both for compasse of ground , & for multitude of men ; saving that it lyeth far North , and so yeeldeth not pleasure or good traffique , with many other of the best situated nations .

Among other things which doe argue the magnificence of the Emperour of Russia , this one is recorded by many , who have travelled into those parts , that when the great Duke is disposed to sit in his magnificence , besides great store of Iewels , and abundance of massie plate both of gold and silver , which is openly shewed in his hall , there doe sit as his Princes , and great Nobles , cloathed in very rich and sumptuous attyre , divers men , ancient for their yeares , very seemly of countenance , and grave , with white long beards , which is a goodly shew , besides the rich state of the thing . But Olaus Magnus , man well experienced in those Northerne parts , doth say , ( how truely I cannot tell ) that the manner of their sitting is a notable fraud and cunning of the Russian ; in asmuch as they are not men of any worth , but ordinary Citizens of the gravest , and seemliest countenance , which against such a solemnity , are picked out of Mosco , and other places adjoyning , and have robes put on them , which are not their owne , but taken out of the Emperours Wardrope .

Of Spruce and Poland .

Prussia bow situated . IN Europe , on the East and North corner of Germany , lyeth a Countrey called Prussia , in Latine most times Borussia in English , Pruthen , or Spruce , of whom little is famous , saving that they were governed by one , in a kinde of order of Religion , whom they call the Grand-Master : and that they are a meanes to keepe the Moscovite , & the Turke from some other parts of Christendome .

This countrey is now growne to be a Dukedome , & the Duke thereof doth admit traffique with our English , who going beyond the Hants townes , doe touch upon his countrey ; & amongst other things , doe bring from thence a kinde of leather , which was wont to be used in Ierkins , and called by the name of Spruce-Leather-Jerkins . Spruce Leather .

On the East side of Germany , betweene Russia and Germany , lyeth Polonia , Polands Situation . or Poland , which is a kingdome differing from others in Europe ; because the King there is chosen by Election out of some of the Princes neere adjoyning , as lately Henry the third , King of France . These Elections oftentimes doe make great factions there ; so that in taking parts , they grow often there into civill warre .

The King of Polonia is almost continually in warre , either with the Moscovite , who lyeth in the East and North-east of him ; or with the Turke , who lyeth on the South and South-east , and sometimes also with the Princes of Germany ; whereupon the Poles do commonly desire to choose warriours to their King .

In this Countrey are none but Christians : but so , Their divers Religions . that liberty of all Religion is permitted , insomuch , that there be Papists , Colledges of Jesuites , both of Lutherans and Calvinists in opinions , Anabaptists , Arrians , and divers others .

They hate the Iesuites But of late yeares , there hath bin made earnest motions in their Parliaments , that their Colledges of Iesuites should bee dissolved , and they banished out of that Kingdome , as of late they were from France . The reason of it is , because that under colour of Religion , they doe secretly deale in State causes , and many times sow seditions , and some of them have given counsell to murther Princes : and wheresoever they be , they are the onely intelligencers for the Pope : besides that , many of the Papists ( but especially all their Friers and orders of Religion ) doe hate and envy them : first , for that they take upon them with such pride to be called Iesuites , as if none had to doe with Iesus but they , and are more inward with Princes than the rest are . Secondly , because many of them are more learned than common Monks and Fryers . And thirdly , because they professe more strictly and severely , than others doe , the Capuchins onely excepted .

Their chiefe Citie Cracovia . This is that Countrey , which in times past was called Sarmatia , the chiefe Citie whereof is named Cracovia .

Of Hungaria and Austria .

Hungaria situated . ON the South-East side of Germany , lyeth Hungaria , called in the Latine , Pannonia , which hath beene heretofore divided into Pannonia superior , & Pannonia inferior : it is an absolute Kingdome , and hath beene heretofore rich and populous . The Christians that doe live there , have among them divers sorts of Religion , as in Poland .

This Kingdome hath bin a great obstacle against the Turkes comming into Christendome ; but especially in the time of Iohan. Huniades , who did mightily , with many great victories repulse the Turke . Here standeth Bunda , which was heretofore a great Fortresse of Christendome : Bunda : but the glory of this kingdome is almost utterly decaied , by reason that the Turke , who partly by policy , & partly by force , doth now possesse the greatest part of it ; So that the people are fled from thence , and the Christians which remaine there , are in miserable servitude : Notwithstanding some part of Pannonia inferior , doth yet belong to Christendome .

The Turks for the space of these forty or fifty yeares last past , have kept continuall garrisons , and many times great Armies in that part of Hungary , which yet remaineth Christned ; yea , and sometimes the great Turks themselves have come thither in person with huge hosts , accounting it a matter of their Religion , not onely to destroy as many Christians as they can , but also to win their land ; by the revenues whereof they may maintaine some Religious house , which they think themselves in custome bound to erect : but so , that the maintayning thereof is by the Sword to be wonne out of the hands of some of those whom they hold enemies to them .

Hungary is become the onely Cockpit of the world , where the Turkes doe strive to gaine , and the Christians at the charge of the Emperour of Germany ( who entituleth himselfe King of Hungary ) doe labour to repulse them : and few Summers doe passe , but that something is either wonne or lost , by either party .

The corner of Germany which lyeth neerest to Hungary , or Pannonia inferior , Austria . is called Austria , or Pannonia superior , which is an Archdukedome . From which house ( being of late much sprung ) come many of the Princes of Germany , and of other parts of Europe : so that the Crown imperiall of Germany , hath lately oft befallen to some one of this house .

In this Country standeth Vienna , Vienna . that noble citie , which is now the principall Bulwarke of Christendome against the Turke ; from whence Solyman was repelled by Ferdinandus King of Hungary , in the time of the Emperour Charles the fift . It was in this countrey , that Richard the first , King of England , in his returne from the Holy land , was taken prisoner by the Archduke of Austria , and so put to a grievous ransome .

There were lately divers brothers of the Emperour Rodolphus the second , which were al called by the name of Archdukes of Austria , Archdukes of Austria . according to the maner of the Germans , who give the titles of the Fathers nobility to all the children . The names of them were Mathias , Ernestus , & the youngest Albertus , who for a good space held by dispensation from the Pope , the Archbishopricke of Toledo in Spaine although he were no Priest , and had then also the title of Cardinall of Austria , & was imploied for Viceroy of Portugall , by Philip the 2 , King of Spaine : but after the death of the Duke of Parma , hee was sent as Lievtenant generall , & governor of the Low-Countries for the K. of Spaine , where since he hath attained to the marriage of the Infanta Isabella Eugenia Clara , eldest daughter to K. Philip the second , and last King of Spaine , and by her hath hee the stile of Duke of Burgundy , although peaceably he cannot enjoy a great part of that Country .

Thorow both Austria and Hungary doth runne the mighty river Danubius , as thorow Germany doth run the Rheine , The River of Rhine . whereon groweth Vinum Rhenanum , commonly called Rhenish wine .

Of Greece , Thracia , and the Countries neer adjoyning .

Situation of Dacia . ON the South side of Hungary , and South-east , lieth a Countrey of Europe , called in old time Dacia , which is large and wide , comprehending in it Transylvania , Walachia , Transylvania , Walachia . Moldavia , Servia . Moldavia , & Servia . Of which little is famous , save that the men are warlike , and can hardly be brought to obedience . They have lately bin under the K. of Hungary .

These Countries of Transylvania , Walachia , and Moldavia , have certaine Monarchs of their owne , whom they call by the name of Vognode , which do rule their countries with indifferent mediocrity , while they have the sway in their own hands , but confining upon the Turk , they are many times oppressed , & overcome by him , so that often they are his tributaries : yet by the wildnesse of the country , & uncertaine disposition of the Rulers and their people , he never hath any hand long over them , but sometimes they maintaine warre against him , & have slaine downe some of his Bassaes , comming with a great Army against them ; by which occasion it falleth out , that hee is glad now and then to enter confederacy with them : so doubtfull a kinde of regiment is that , which now adaies is in those Countries .

The river Danubius doth divide this Dacia from Mysia , commonly called Bulgaria , and Russia , which lyeth on the South from Danubius , and is severed from Graecia by the mountaine Haemus . The mountaine Haemus .

This mountaine is that , whereof they reported in times past though but falsly , that who so stood on the top thereof , might see the sea foure severall wayes , to wit , East , West , North and South : under pretence of trying which conclusion , ( not Philip Alexanders Father , but a latter Philip , King of Macedonia ) did goe up to that hill , when in truth his meaning was secretly to meet with others there , with whom hee might joyne himselfe against the Romans , which was shortly the overthrow of that kingdome . It should seeme , that about this mountaine , it is very cold , by reason of that jest which Athenaeus reporteth Stratonicus to have uttered concerning that hill , when he said , that for eight moneths in the yeare it was very cold , and for other four , it was Winter .

Graecia bounded . From Haemus toward the South , lyeth Graecia , bounded on the West by the Adriatike sea , on the East by the Thracian sea , and Mare Aegeum ; on the South by the maine Mediterranean sea . This contained in old time foure speciall parts , Peloponnesus , Achaia , Macedonia , and Epirus .

Adjoyning whereunto was Illiricum Peloponnesus , Moreah which is now called Moreah , in the South part of Graecia , being Peninsula , or almost an Iland , for that it is joyned by a little strait called Istmos , unto the rest of Graecia . Herein stood Sparta , S●●●ssus and Helicon and the ancient state of Lacedemon ; the lawes thereof were made by Licurgus ; by the due observation of which , Tullie could say in his time , that the title of Sparta in Lacedemon , had continued in the same meanes and behaviour for the space of 700. yeares .

This Sparta was it which so often made warre against the Athenians , and this and Athens were called the two edges of Graecia .

Neere the Jsthmos , or Straits , stood the famous City of Corinth , Corinth . which was in old time called the Key of Greece , and whither S. Paul wrote two of his Epistles .

Aeneas Sylvius in his Cosmographicall Treatise , De Europa , cap. 22. saith , that the Straits which divide Moreah from the rest of Graecia , are in bredth but five miles ; and that divers Kings & Princes did go about to digge away the earth , that they might make it to be an Iland : He nameth King Demetrius , Julius Caesar , Caius Caligula , & Domitius Nero ; of all whom hee doth note , that they not onely failed of their purpose , but that they came to violent and unnaturall deaths .

From the Isthmos , which is the end of Peloponnesus , or Moreah , beginneth Achaia , Achaia . and spreadeth it selfe North-wards but a little way , unto the Hill Othris , which is the bounds betweene Achaia and Macedonia : but East and West much more largely , as Eastward even unto the Island Euboea , Euboea . with a great Promontory , and Westward bounding unto Epirus .

The Inhabitants of this place , were they which properly are called Achivi ; which word is so oft used by Virgil . Here toward the East part stood Boetia , & upon the Sea-coast , Boetia . looking South-ward toward Moreah , was Athens , Athens . which was famous for the Lawes of Solon , for the warres against Sparta , and many other Cities of Graecia ; and for an Vniversity of learned men , which long continued there .

Pernassus and Helicon In this part of Greece , stood Pernassus and Helicon , so much talked of by Poets , and Phocis , and Thebes , and briefly all the Cities wherof Livie speaking , doth terme by the name of Achai , or Vrbes Achaeorum .

The third Province of Graecia , called Epirus , Epyrus . lyeth Westward from Achaia , and extends it selfe for a good space that way ; but toward the North and South it is but narrow lying along the Sea-coast , and looking South-ward on the Islands of Conegra , and Cephalonia . This was the Country wherein Olympias wife unto Philip of Macedonia , and Mother unto Alexander the Great , was born . This was also the Kingdome of that noble Pyrrhus , which made such great warres against the Romanes ; and in our later age it was made renowned by the valiant Scanderbeg , who was so great a scourge unto the Turk , whose life is so excellently written by Martinus Partesius . From the East part of Epirus Northward , lyeth a Country , which was never noted by any famous name ; but as it should seeme was sometime under Epirus , from which it lyeth Northward ; sometimes under Macedonia , from which it lyeth Westward ; and sometimes under Illyris , or Dalmatia , from which it lyeth Southward ; and it may be that there was in old time divers free Cities there . Illyricum , Illyricum which confineth upon Graecia toward the North and West , neere unto the top of the Adriatick Sea , and not farre from Venice , is for a good part of it at this day under the Venetians .

The fourth and greatest part of old Graecia was Macedonia , Macedonia . which is falsly by the Maps of the Romane Empire , placed on the Westside of Graecia ; for in truth it lyeth on the Eastside , looking toward Asia the lesser , being bounded on the Eastside by the Sea called Mare Aegeum , on the Southside by Achaia , and the Hill Othris , and part of Epirus : and on the Westside , by certaine great Mountains ; but on the North by the Hill Haemus .

This was the Kingdome so famous in times past for Philip and Alexander his sonne , who conquered the whole World , and caused the name of the third Empire to be attributed unto this place . Here stood the Hill Athos , whereof part was digged downe by the army of Xerxes the great King of Persia , who warred against the Grecians . Here was the Hill Olympus , the City of Philippi where the Philippians dwelt , to whom Saint Paul wrote . Here was Ampollonia , Amphipolis , Edessa , Pella , Thessalonica and Berea : yea , and the whole Countrey of Thessalia , lay on the Southside of this part of Greece .

In this Countrey of Graecia , were in ancient time many Kingdomes and States , as at this day there are in Italy ; as the Macedonians , the Kingdome of Epirus , the State of Athens , the government of Sparta , the City of Thebes , and very many other places ; insomuch that almost every Town had a peculiar government : But now it is all under one Monarchy .

Many famous things from Grecia From Graecia ( in old time ) did almost all famous things come . These were they that made the war against Troy ; that resisted Xerxes the mighty King of Persia , that had the Famous Law-makers , as Solon in Athens , Famous Lawes . and Lycurgus in Lacedemon ; that took away the Monarchy from the Persians ; that brought forth the Famous Captaines , Famous Captains . as Themistocles , Miltiades , Alexander , and many other that were the Authours of civilitie unto the Western Nations , and to some in the East , as Asia the lesse : that gave to Italy and to the Romanes the first light of learning : because from them arose the first Poets , as Homer , The first Poets . Hesiodus , Sophocles , and divers other . The great Philosophers , Socrates , Plato , Aristotle , and all the Sects of the Academicks , Stoicks , Peripateticks , Epicureans , and almost all their Scholars . The great Orators . The great Oratours Demosthenes , and Eschines ; and in one word ( the Mathematicks excepted , which came rather from the Chaldeans and the Egyptians ) the whole flower of Arts and good Learning .

On the Northeast part of Graecia standeth Thracia , Thracia . which though heretofore it hath beene distinguished , yet now it is accounted as the chiefe part of Greece . Heere on the edge of the Sea-coast very neer unto Asia , Constantinople . standeth the City called Bizantium , but since Constantinople ; because Constantine the Great did new build it , and made it an Imperiall City . This was the chiefe residence of the Emperour of Graecia , sometimes called New Rome , and the glory of the East ; where the Generall Councel was once assembled ; and one of the Seas of the Patriarks , who was called the Patriark of Constantinople . But by the great discord of the Christians , all Graecia , and this Citie , are fallen into the hands of the Turke , who now maketh it his place of Imperiall aboad . It was wonne in the time of Constantine the last Emperour ; so that by Constantine it obtained his honour , and by Constantine it lost it . In this City lyeth resident with the Turke , an Ambassadour , or Agent for the King of England .

The Christians that do live now in Graecia , are in miserable servitude unto the Turke . They disagree in many things from the doctrine of the Church of Rome .

Of the Sea running between Europe and Asia .

Northerne parts were not discovered in times past . IF there were no other argument , that the Northern parts of the World were not discovered in times past , by any that travelled that way , yet this would sufficiently avouch it , that there was never thought upon any Land betweene Asia and Europe , higher than the river Tanais ; which doth not extend it selfe very farre into the North , but is short of the uttermost bounds that was by the space of foure thousand miles ; but this River , which by the Tartarians is now called Don , where it doth run , it leaveth Asia on the Eastside , and Europe on the West , but going forward toward the South , it disburdeneth it selfe into a dead Lake or Fen ( for so it seemeth ) which is called Maeotis-Palus , Maeotis . Palus , Iustin . Ovid. spoken of in the second book of Iustine , and not forgotten by Ovid de ponto : and at this day in the dead of Winter , it is usually so frozen , that the Scythians and Tartarians neer adjoyning , do both themselves & their catt●ll , yea , sometimes with Sleads after them passe over , as if it were dry Land . On the Southern part of this Maeotis is a narrow strait of the Sea , which is commonly called by the name of Bosphorus Cimmerius , Bosphorus Cimmerius . because ( as it is thought ) sometime Oxen have ventured to swim crosse there from Asia to Europe , or backward . When the water hath runne for a pretty space in so narrow a passage , there beginneth a great and wide Sea , named Pontus Euxinus , Pontus Euxinua . Whither ( as Iosephus reporteth ) the Whale did carry the Prophet Ionas , and there did disburden himselfe of his carriage , by casting him upon the Land . At the mouth of this Sea , is a very great strait , knowne by the name of Thracius Bosphorus , Thracius Bosphorus . where the bredth of this Sea is not above one mile , severing Asia and Europe . On the side of Europe standeth Constantinople . On the side of Asia , the City called Pera , or Galata , which for the neernesse is by some reckoned a part of Constantinople . When any of the Turkes Ianizaries have committed ought worthy of death , A strange custome among the Turks . the custome is , to send the same party in the night time over by boat from Constantinople to Peru , where by the way he is throwne into the water , with a great stone about his necke , and then there is a piece of Ordnance shot off , which is a token of some such execution . The Turke is forced to take this course , lest the rest of his Ianizaries should mutiny when any of their fellowes is put to death .

By reason of the standing of Asia and Europe so neere together , and the Sea running between them , which serveth each place with al● manner of commodities , it appeareth that Constantinople is marvel● lously , richly , and conveniently seated , and therefore a fit place , from whence the Turke may offer to archieve great attempts .

After this strait , the Sea openeth i● selfe more large toward the South and it is called by the name of Propontis : But then it groweth again● into another strait , which they writ● to be in breadth about two mile● This is called Hellespontus , Hell●spontus Xerxes Bridge . having on the one side Abidus in Asia on the other side Sestus , o● the side of Europe . This is th● place where Xerxes the great Kin● of Persia did make his Bridge ove● the Sea , so much renowned i● ancient History , which was not impossible , by reason of the narrow nesse , the foundation of his Bridg being rested on ships . Here al● may appeare the reason of the sto●● of Leander and Hero : which Lea●der is reported for the love of Her●to have oftentimes swom over th●● Sea till at last hee was drowned . From this strait Southward , the Sea groweth more wide , and is called afterwards by the name of Mare Aegeum , Mare Aegeum . and so descendeth to the full Mediterranean .

Of Asia , and first of Tartary .

ON the Northside of Asia , joyning unto the dominion of the Emperour of Russia , is Tartary , Tartary bounded . in ancient time called Scythia ; the bounds wherof did then extend themselves into a good part of Europe ; & therefore was called Scythia Europea : but the greatest part of it lyeth in Asia , a mighty large Country , extending it selfe on the North to the uttermost Sea , on the East to the Dominion of the Great Cham , or Prince of Cathaie ; on the South down to Mare Caspium . The Tartarians which now inhabit it , are men of great stature , rude of behaviour . no Christians , Their Religion . but Gentiles ; neither doe they acknowledge Mabumet . They have few or no Citie● among them , but after the manner of the old Scythians , doe live i● Wildernesses , lying vnder their Carts , and following their drove of cattell , by the milke whereo● they doe nourish themselves . The● sowe no Corne at all , because the● abide not long in any one place ; bu● taking their direction from the● North-pole-starre , they remoov● from one coast of their Countre● unto another . The Countrey is populous , and the men are great warriers fighting alwayes on horse backe with their bow , Their manner of war . arrowes , an● a short Sword . They have among● them infinite store of horses , whe●of they sell many into the Countries neere adjoyning . Their ordnary food in their warres is horse flesh , which they use to eate raw● being chafed a little by hanging 〈◊〉 their Saddle .

They have great wars with th● Countries adjoyning , but especiall with the Muscovite , and sometimes with the Turke : from hence came Tamberlaine , Tamberlain the Great , a Tartarian . who brought 7000000 of the Tartarians at once into the field , wherein he distressed and took prisoner Bajazet the great Turke , whom he afterward forced to feed as a Dogge under his table .

They have now amongst them many Princes and Governours , as those have one , whom they call the Crim Tartars : and those have another , which are the Tartars of Magaiae , and so divers others .

The English have laboured ( to their great expences ) to finde out the way by the North Seas of Tartaria , to go into Cathay and China ; but by reason of the frozen Seas , they have not yet prevailed : although it hath beene reported that the Flemmings have discovered that passage : which would be ( very likely ) to the great benefit of the Northern parts of Christendome ; yet that report doth not continue , and therfore it is to be thought , that the Flemmings have not proceeded so farre .

Of Cathaie , and China .

NExt beyond Tartaria , on the Northeast part of Asia , lyeth a great Countrey called Cathaie ; Situation of Cathaie . the bounds whereof extend themselves on the North and East , to the utter most Seas ; and on the South to China , The people are not much learned , but more civil than the Tartars ; and have good and ordinary trafficke with the Countries adjoyning .

This Countrey hath in it many Kings , which are tributaries , and do owe obedience unto one , whom they call the great Cham , The Great Can of Cathaie . or Can of Cathaie , who is the chiefe Governour of all the Land , and esteemed for multitude of people and largenesse of Dominion , to be one of the greatest Princes of the World : but his name is the lesse famous , for that hee lyeth so farre distant from the best Nations , and the passage into his Countrey is so dangerous , either for the perils of the Sea , or for the long space by Land . His chiefe Imperiall Citie is called Cambalu . On the South side of Cathaie , Cambalu the chiefe Citie of China . and East part of Asia , next to the Sea , lyeth China : and the people thereof , Osorius describeth by the name of Sina , and calleth their Countrey Sinarum Regio . A very rich Countrey . This is a fruitfull Countrey , and yeeldeth as great store of rich Commodities , as almost any Countrey in the World . It containeth in it very many severall Kingdomes , which are absolute Princes in their Seats . The chief Citie in this Countrey is called Quinsay , Quinsay the chiefe Citie . and is described to be of incredible greatnesse , as were wont to be the ancient Cities in the East , as Babylon , Ninivie , and others .

This Countrey was first discovered by the late Navigation of the Portugalls into the East Indies .

The people skilfull in Arts. The people of China are learned almost in all Arts , very skilfull Worke-men in curious fine works of all sorts , so that no Countrey yeeldeth more precious Merchandize , than the workmanship of them . They are great Souldiers , very politicke and crafty , and in respect thereof contemning the wits of others , using a Proverbe , That all other Nations doe see but with one eye , Their Proverbe . but they themselves with two .

Petrus Maffaeus , Historiographer to the King of Spaine for the Easterne Indies , doth report of them , that they have had from very ancient time among them these two things , which wee hold to be the Miracles of Christendome , and but lately invented : The one is the use of Gunnes for the Warres , Two rare wonders invented in China , Guns , and Printing . and the other is Printing ; which they use not as wee doe , writing from the left hand unto the right ; or as the Hebrewes and Syrians , from the right hand unto the left : but directly downeward , and so their lines at the top doe beginne againe .

Of the East Indies .

ON the Southside of China , toward the Molucco Ilands , and the Indian Sea , lyeth the great Country of India , extending it selfe from the South part of the Continent , Th● situation of the Indies . by the space of many thousand miles Westward , unto the River Indus , which is the greatest River in all the Countrey , except Ganges , one of the greatest Rivers in the World ; which lyeth in the East part of the same Indies .

This is that Countrey so famous in ancient time , for the great riches thereof , for the multitude of people , for the conquest of Bacchus over it : for the passage thither of Alexander the Great , throughout all the length of Asia ; for his adventuring to goe into the South Ocean with so mighty a Navy , which few or none had ever attempted before him . And certainly thither it was that Salomon did send once in three yeeres for his Gold and other rich Merchandise : for the Scripture saith , that hee sent his Fleet from Ezion-geber , which stood upon the mouth of the Red Sea , and it was the directest passage which hee had unto the Easterne Indies ; whereas if his purpose had been to send to Peru , as some lately have imagined , his course had been thorow the Mediterranean Sea , and the Straits of Gibraltar .

This Countrey had in ancient time , In Jndia are many Kingdomes . many absolute Kingdomes and Provinces : as in the time of Alexander , Porus , Taxiles , and divers others . In it were many Philosophers , and men of great Learning whom they called Gymnosophistae , of whom was Calanus , who burnt himselfe before Alexander .

The men of the South part of India are blacke , Their Cattle very big and therefore are called men of Jnde . The Cattell of all sorts that are bred there , are of incredible bignesse , in respect of other Countries , as their Elephants , Apes , Monkies , Emêts , and other .

Their riches . The riches hereof have beene very great , with abundance of Gold , insomuch that the Promontory , which is now called Malacha , was in times past named Aurea Chersonesus . The commoditie of Spice is exceeding great that comes from thence .

The Partugals first discovered the Indies The Portugals were the first , which by their long Navigations beyond the Equinoctiall , and the farthermost part of Africk , have of late yeeres discovered these Countries to Christendome : as heretofore to the use of the King of Portugall , so now of the King of Spaine , who is reputed owner of them .

Four Kingdoms by the Portugals discovered . The Portugals did finde divers Kingdomes at their first arrivall in those parts , as the Kingdome of Calecut , the Kingdome of Cambaia , the Kingdome of Cananor , the Kingdome of Cochin , and very many other , with the Kings whereof they first entring League and Trafficke , and having leave given to build Castles for their defence , they have since by policie encroched into their hands a great part of the Countrey which lyeth neere unto the Sea-coast , and are mighty now , for the space of many thousand miles together . The K. of Spain hath there a Vice-roy , whose residence is commonly in the Imperiall Citie called God . Chief City God . They doe every yeare send home great store of rich commodities into Spain .

The Indians Religion . The people of the Country when the Portugals came first thither , were for the most part Gentiles , beleeving in no one God : yea , at this day there are divers of them who doe adore the Sunne as their God , and every morning at the rising thereof , doe use very superstitious Ceremonies , which our Merchants , who doe trade to Aleppo , doe oftentimes see ; for divers of these Jndians do come thither with Merchandize . But the Saracens , who reverence the Prophet Mahomet , from the Bayes or Gulphes of Persia and Arabia , doe trafficke much thither , so that Mahomet was knowne among them : but in one Town called Granganor , they found certain Christians dissenting in many things from the Church of Rome , and rather agreeing with the Protestants , which Christians had received ( by succession ) their Religion , from the time of Thomas the Apostle ; by whom ( as it is recorded in the ancient Ecclesiasticall History ) part of India was converted .

In this Countrey of Jndia are many great and potent Kings and Kingdomes , which had beene altother unknown and unheard of in our part of the World , but that we were beholding to the Portugals for their Discovery ; and before their Navigation thither , by the backside of Africk , to some relations that wee had from the Venetians , who traded and travelled thither by Land out of Turkie . The names of these Kings and Kingdomes are these ; The King of Biarme , the great Mogol , S●● Kingdomes . the King of Narsing , Pegu , Siam . the forenamed King of Calecut , and others .

Of Persia .

Situation of Persia . THere be divers Countries betweene India and Persia ; but they are not Famous . Persia is a large Country , which lyeth farre West from India : it hath on the North Assyria and Media , on the West Syria and the Holy land , but next unto it Mesopotamia : on the South the mayn Ocean , which entreth in notwithstanding by a Bay called Sinus Persicus .

This is that Countrey , which in ancient time was so renowned for the great riches , and Empire thereof . These were they who tooke from the Assyrians the Monarchie , and did set up in their Country the second great Empire , which began under Cyrus , & continued unto that Darius , who was overthrowne by Alexander the Great . In this countrey raigned the great Kings , Cyrus , The g eat and famous Kings of Persia . Cambises , Darius the Son of Histaspes , the great Xerxes , Artaxerxes , and many others ; which in prophane writings are famous for their wars against the Scythians , Aegyptians , and Graecians , & in the Scripture , for the delivery of the Iewes from Babylon by Cyrus , for the building of the second Temple at Jerusalem , and for many things which are mentioned of them in the Prophecie of Daniel .

The people of this Nation , although they were in former times very riotous , by reason of their great wealth ; yet after they had lost their Monarchy by the Macedonians , Persians great Souldiers . they have growne great Souldiers : and therefore as they did ever strongly defend themselves against the old Romanes ; so in the time of Constantine , and the other Emperours , they were fearefull neighbours to the Romane government : and of late time , they have strongly opposed themselves against the Turkes , ever making their party good with them . And yet notwithstanding , in the dayes of Amurath the third , father to Mahomet the Turke now raigning , the Turke had a great hand upon the Persian ; going so farre with his Army , as that hee tooke the strong Citie Tauris standing within the Persian dominions , neere unto the Caspian Sea , but this losse was to bee attributed , partly to the great dissentions which were among the Persians themselves , and partly to the multitude of the Turke his Souldiers , who by fresh supply did over-beare the Persian , although hee slew downe many thousands of them .

They fight commonly on horseback , & are govern'd as in time past by a King , so now by an absolute ruler , Sophy of Persia . and a mighty Prince , whom they tear me the Shaw , or Sophy of Persia . Hee hath many Countries , & small Kings in Assyria , & Media , and the countries adjoyning , which are tributaries .

Among other the Sophies of Persia , about a hundred years since , there was one of great power , called Ismael the Persian , who procured unto himselfe great fame by his many & valorous attempts against the Turke . Surius in his Commentaries , writing upon him , saith , that upon some fond conceit , the Iewes were strongly of opinion , that hee was that Messias whom unto this day they expect ; and therefore hoped that he should have beene their deliverer and advancer : But he addeth in his report , that it fell out so cleane contrary , that there was no man who more vexed and grieved them , than that Ismael did .

Their Religion . The Persians are all at this day Sarazens in Religion , beleeving in Mahomet : but as Papists and Protestants doe differ in opinion , concerning the same Christ , so doe the Turks & Persians about their Mahomet : the one pursuing the other , as Heretikes , with most deadly hatred , in so much that there is , in this respect , almost continuall war betweene the Turke and the Persians .

Of Parthia , and Media .

Situation of Parthia . ON the North-East side of Persia , lyeth that Country which in old time was called Parthia , but now named Arach ; of whom , those great warres of the Romanes with the Medians or Armenians , in Tacitus , and ancient Histories are true .

This Country boundeth on Media by the West , and it was in ancient time veryful of people : whose fight as it was very much on horsebacke , Their manner of fight . so the manner of them continually was for to give an onset , and then to returne their wayes , even to returne againe like to the Wilde Irish ; so that no man was sure when he had obtained any victory over them .

Great wars of the Parthians against the Romanes . These were the people that gave the great overthrow to that rich Marcus Crassus of Rome , who by reason of his covetousnesse ( intending more to his getting of gold , than to the guiding of his army ) was slaine himselfe , and many thousands of the Romanes : The Parthians with exprobation of his thirst after money , poured moulten gold into his mouth after he was dead . Against these , the great Lucullus fought many battels ; but the Romanes were never able to bring them quite to subjection .

Media how situated . On the West-side of Parthia , ( having the Mare Caspium on the North , Armenia on the West , and Persia on the South ) lyeth that Country which in time past was called Media , but now Shirvan or Sarvan ; which is at this day governed by many inferiour Kings and Princes , which are tributaries , and doe owe subjection to the Sophy of Persia . So that hee is the Soveraigne Lord of all Media , as our English-men have found , who passing through the dominion of the Emperour of Russia , have crossed the Mare Caspium , and merchandized with the inhabitants of this Media .

A famous Nation . This Nation in former times was very famous ; for the Medes were they that removed the Empire from the Assyrians unto them : which as in themselves it was not great , yet when by Cyrus it was joyned to that of the Persians , it was very mighty , and was called by the name of the Empire of the Medes and Persians . Here it was that Astyages raigned , the Grandfather of Cyrus and Darius of the Medes .

The chiefe City of Media . The chiefe City of this Kingdome was called Ecbatana , as the chiefe City of Persia , was Babylon .

It is to bee observed of the Kings of Media , that in the Summer time they did use to retire themselves Northward unto Ecbatana , for avoyding of the heate ; but in the winter time they came downe more South unto Susis , which as it seemeth was a warmer place : but by this meanes they were both taken for Imperiall Cities , and chiefe residences of the Kings of Media ; which being knowne ; takes away some confusion in old Stories . The like custome was afterward used also by the Kings of Persia .

Of Armenia and Assyria .

Situation of Armenia ON the West-side of the Mare Caspium ; & of Media , lieth a Countrey called by a generall name , Armenia ; which by some is distinctly divided into three parts : the North part whereof being but little , Divided into three parts . is called Georgia ; the middle part Turcomania ; the third part , by the proper name of Armenia . By which a man may see the reason of difference in divers writers : Some saying , that the countrey whence the Turkes first came , was Armenia , some saying Turcomania , and some Georgia ; the truth being , that out of one , or all these Countries they did descend . These Turks are supposed to bee the issue o● them whom Alexander the Great did shut up within certaine Mountaines neere to the Mare Caspium .

A memorable Note . There is this one thing memorable in Armenia , that after the great Floud , the Arke of Noah did rest it selfe on the Mountaines o● Armenia , where , ( as Josephus witnesseth ) it is to be seene yet to this day ; the hills whereon it resteth , are called by some Noae Montes .

Armenians Christians . The people of this Nation , have retained amongst them the Christian Faith , as it is thought , from the time of the Apostles ; but at this day it is spotted with many absurdities .

Bathing of their children . Among other Errours which the Church of Armenia hath bin noted to hold , this is one , that they did bathe their children , waving them up and downe in flames of fire , and repute that to bee a necessary circumstance of Baptisme : Which errour ariseth by mistaking that place of Iohn the Baptist , where he saith , That he that came after him ( meaning Christ ) should baptize them with the holy Ghost , and with fire . In which place the word doth not signifie materiall fire , but expresseth the lively and purging operation of the Spirit , like to the nature of fire .

On the South part of Armenia , bending towards the East , lyeth the Country of Assyria , Assyria bounded . which is bounded on the West with Mesopotamia . This Country was that Land wherein the first Monarchy was setled , which began under Ninus , whom the Scripture calleth Nimrod , living not long after Noahs Flood , and it ended in Sardanapalus continuing a thousand and three hundred yeares .

The King of this Countrey was Senacherib , Kings of Assyria . of whom wee reade in the Booke of the Kings ; and here reigned Nebuchadnezzar , who tooke Ierusalem , and led the Iewes away prisoners unto Babylon .

In this Countrey , is the swift River Tygris , The swift river Tygris . The City Ninivee . neere unto the which was Paradice : Vpon this River stood the great City Ninivee , called by prophane writers , Ninus ; which was almost of incredible bignesse , and exceeding populous , by the neerenesse of the River , and marvellous fruitfulnesse of the soile , which , as Herodotus writeth , did returne their Corne sometime two hundred , and sometimes three hundred fold , and did yeeld sufficiency for to maintaine it . This Citie for a long time was the Imperiall Seat of the Monarchy ; but being destroyed , ( as God foretold it should be , by the Chaldeans ) the residence of the King was afterwards removed unto Babylon , a great City in Chaldea , first built by Semiramis .

Of Chaldea .

Situation of Chaldea . NExt unto Assyria , lyeth Chaldea , having on the East side Assyria ; on the West , Syria , or Palesti●a ; on the North , Armenia ; on the South , the desart of Arabia ;

This Countrey is often called by the name of Mesopotamia , which name it hath , because it lyeth in the middle of two great Rivers , Tygris and Euphrates . It is called also by the name of Babylonia , which word of it selfe properly taken , doth signifie onely that part of the Countrey which standeth about Babylon .

Babylon the chiefe City of Chaldea . The chiefe City whereof was Babylon , whose ruines doe remaine unto this day . It was a rich and most pleasant City for all kinde of delight ; and was in the later time of that Monarchy , the Imperiall City of the Assyrians , where Nebuchadnezzar and other their great Kings did lye .

It was to this city that the children of Israel were carried captives , which thereof was called the Captivity of Babylon .

The Kings of Persia also did keep their residence here , it was buil● upon the River Euphrates , some part of it standing on the one side and some part on the other , having for it's foundresse , Semiramis , the wife of Ninus .

Ammianus Marsellinus reporteth one thing of this Countrey wherein the admirable power o● God doth appeare ; The admirable power of God in preserving the people . for he writeth that in these parts are a huge number of Lyons , which were like enough to devoure up both men and beasts throughout the Countrey but withall hee saith , that by reason of the store of water and mudde thereof , there doe bree● yearely an innumerable company o● Gnats , whose property is to fly unto the eye of the Lyon , as being a bright and orient thing ; wher● byting and stinging the Lyon , he teareth so fiercely with his clawes that he putteth out his owne eyes , and by that meanes many are drowned in the Rivers , others starve for want of prey , and many the more easily killed by the Inhabitants .

It is supposed by Divines , that in this Mesopotamia , betweene the River Tygris and Euphrates , Paradise did stand . Note . This was the Countrey wherein Abraham the Patriarch was borne : unto which the Romanes could very hardly extend their dominion : For they had much to doe to get the governement of any thing beyond the River Euphrates . From this people it is thought the wise-men came which brought presents to Christ , by the guiding of the Starre .

For as in India , and all the Easterne parts , so especially in this Countrey , their Noblemen , and Priests , and very many people , doe give themselves to all Arts of Divination . Here were the great Southsayers , Enchanters , and Wise men , as they call them . Here were the first Astrologians , Here were the first Astrologians . which are so described , and derided in the Scripture : and against the Inhabitants of Babylon and Chaldea were the Lawes of the Romanes made , which are against divining Mathematicians , who in Tullie 〈◊〉 Divinatione & Cornelius Tacitus , as also in the Lawes of the Emperours , are ordinarily collected by the name of Chaldeans : and indeed from these , and from the Aegyptians , is supposed to have sprung the first knowledge of Astronomy .

It is thought that a great reason whereof these Chaldeans were expert in the laudable knowledge o● Astronomy , was partly because th● Countrey is so plaine , that being without hils , they might more fully and easily discover the whole fac● of the Heaven , and partly , because the old Fathers which lived so long not onely before , but in some good part also after the Floud of Noah did dwell in , or neere to these parts and they by observation of their owne , did finde out , and discover many things of the heavenly Bodies , which they delivered as from hand to hand to their posteritie : But as corruption doth staine the best things , so in processe of time , the true Astronomie was defiled with superstitious Rules of Astrologie ( which caused the Prophets Isaiah , and Ieremiah , so bitterly to inveigh against them , ) And then , in their fabulositie they would report , that they had in their Records , Observations for five and twenty thousand yeares , which must needs be a very great untruth , unlesse wee will qualifie it as some have done , expounding their yeares not of the Revolution of the sunne but of the Moone , whose course is ended in the space of a moneth .

Of Asia the lesse .

ON the North-West side of Mesopotamia , lyeth that Countrey which is now called Natolia , but in times past , Asia minor , having on the North side Pontus Euxinus , Situation of Asia the lesse . on the West , the Hellespont , and on the South , the maine Mare Mediterraneum . In the ancient writings both of the Graecians , and of the Romanes , this is oftentimes called by the single name of Asia , because it was best knowne unto them , and they were not so much acquainted with the farther places of Asia the Great .

Richnesse of the Countrey . This Countrey in generall , for the fruitfulnesse of the Land , standing in so temperate a Climate , and for the conveniencie of the Sea every way , and so many good Havens , hath beene reputed alwaies a very commodious and pleasurefull Countrey . It is wholly at this day under the Turke . The Mountaine Taurus goeth along from the West unto the East part of it .

The greatnesse of this Countrey is such , that it hath comprehended many Kingdomes and large Provinces , besides Cities of great fame . On the South-east part thereof , neere to Palestina , lyeth Cilicia ; Cilicia . The city Tarsus . the chiefe Citie whereof is Tarsus , the Countrey of Saint Paul ; the place whither Salomon sent for great store of his Gold , and provision for the Temple , whither Ionas also fled , when he should have gone to Niniveh .

In the straits of this Cilicia , neere to the Mountaine Taurus , Alexander his overthrow of Darius . did Alexander give a great overthrow in person to Darius , in the joyning of their first battaile .

This place seemes to have beene very fortunate for great fights ; in as much as there also neere unto the straits , was the battaile fought out betweene Severus the Emperour and Niger ; who being Governour of the Romanes of Syria , would needs have aspired to the Empire , but in a battaile which was very hardly fought out , he was overthrowne in the straits of Cilicia .

In the very corner where Cilicia is joyned unto the upper part of Syria , is a little Bay , which in times past was named Sinus J sicus , neere unto which Alexander built one of his Cities , which he called by his owne name . The City of Alexandria But howsoever in times past it was named Alexandria , it is now by the Venetians and other Christians , called Alexandretta ; as who should say , little Alexandria , in comparison of the other . In Aegypt the Turkes doe call it Scandar●nd , and it is a petty Haven , where our Merchants do land most of their goods , which are afterwards by Camels carried up to Aleppo . At this day the Citie is so decayed , that there bee onely a few houses there .

Westward from Cilicia lieth the Province called Pamphilia ; Pamphilia The City of Seleuchus . wherein stands the Citie Seleucia , built by Seleuchus , one of the foure great successors of Alexander the Great .

On the West of this Pamphilia , standeth Lycia ; Lycia . & more West from thence confining upon the I le of Rhodes , is Caria ; Caria . one of the sea-townes whereof is Halicarnassus , which was the Countrey of Heredotus , who is one of the most ancient Historians that is extant of the Gentiles , and who dedicated his nine Bookes to the honour of the Muses .

Here also was that Dionysius borne , who is called commonly Dionysius Halicarnassus , one of the Writers of the Romane Story , for the first three hundred yeares after Rome was built .

The whole countrey of Caria is sometimes signified by the name of this Halicarnassus , Halicarnassus . although it was but one Citie ; and thereupon Artemisia , who in the dayes of Xerxes came to aid him against the Gracians , and behaved her selfe so manfully in a great fight at sea , when Xerxes stood by as a coward , is intituled by the name not of Queene of Caria , but of Halicarnassus . Also in the dayes of Alexander the Great , there was another Queene , named Ada ; who also is honoured by the title of Queene of Halicarnassus .

Wee have thus farre described those Cities of Asia the lesse , which doe lie from that part that joyneth unto Syria , along the Sea coast Westward ; but being indeed the Southerne part of Asia minor .

Now upwards towards the North , Ionia . standeth Ionia , where those did dwell , who had like to have joyned with Xerxes , in the great battell at Sea ; but that Themistocles by a policie did winne them from him , to take part with the Gracians . Diodorus Siculus writeth , that the Athenians , who professed to be of kin to those Ionians , were on a time marveilous importunate with them , that they should leave their owne countrey , & come and dwell with them : which when the Ionians , hardly , but yet at length did accept , the Athenians had no place to put them in , and so they returned with great disgrace to them both .

A little within the Land , lying North and East from Jonium , Lydia . was Lydia , which sometimes was the Kingdome of Croesus , who was reputed so rich a King ; when hee was in his prosperity , making best of his happinesse , hee was told by Solon , that no man could reckon upon felicity so long as he lived , because there might be great mutability of Fortune , which he after ward found true : For he was taken prisoner by Cyrus , Croesus overthrown by Cyrus . who was once minded to have put him to death ; but hearing him report the advertisement of Solon formerly given to him , hee was moved to thinke that it might bee his owne case , and so tooke pitty on him , and spared his life .

These Lydians being inhibited afterward by Cyrus , to use any armour , did give themselves to bathes and stewes , and other such effeminate things .

Vpon the sea-coast in Ionia , standeth the Citie Ephesus , Ephesus . which was one of the seven cities , unto which Iohn in his Revelation did write his seven Epistles : and Saint Paul also directed his Epistle to the Ephesians unto the Church which was in this place .

This was one of the most renowned Cities of Asia the lesse ; but the Fame thereof did most arise from the Temple of Diana , which was there built , The Temple of Diana . and was reputed for the magnificence thereof , one of the seven Wonders of the world . This Temple was said to be two hundred yeares in building , and was burnt seven severall times , whereof the most part was by lightning , and the finall destruction thereof came by a base person , called Herostratus ; who to purchase himselfe some fame , did set it on fire .

This was the place of which it is said in the Acts of the Apostles , that all Asia , and the whole world , doe worship this Diana .

Tullie reporteth , De natura Deorum , that Timaeus being asked the reason why the Temple of Diana was on fire that night when Alexander the Great was born , gave that jest thereof , that the Mistresse of it was from home ; because she being the Goddesse of Midwives , did that night waite upon Olympias the Mother of Alexander the Great , who was brought to bed in Macedonia .

City of Smirna . Another of the seven Cities unto which John did write , is Smirna , standing also in Ionia , upon the Sea cost , but somewhat more North than Ephesus ; which is the place where Polycarpus was Bishop , who sometimes had beene Schollar unto Iohn the Evangelist , Polycarpus , schollar to S. Iohn the Evangelist . and living till hee was of great age , was at last put to death for Christs sake , when before hee had beene moved by the Governour of the Countrey to deny his Saviour , and to burne Incense to an Idoll : But hee answered , that fourescore and sixe yeares hee had served Christ Iesus , and in all that time he had never done him harm : and therefore now in his old age hee would not beginne to deny him .

The third Citie unto which the Epistle is directed in the Apocalyps , City of Sardis . which standeth within the Land in Lydia , as is described by the best Writers ; and it was a Citie both of great pleasure and profit unto the Kings in whose Dominion it stood : which may bee gathered hereby , that when once the Graecians had wonne it , Darius Histaspis , or Xerxes , who were Kings of Persia , did give charge , that every day at dinner , one speaking aloud , should remember him , that the Graecians had taken Sardis ; which intended , that hee never was in quiet , till it might bee recovered againe .

Foure Cities of vote . There stood also in the In-land , Philadelphia , Thyatira , Laodicea , and most of all to the North , Pergamus : which were the other foure Cities unto which Saint Iohn the Evangelist did direct his Epistle .

Going upward from Ionium to the North , there lyeth on the Sea-coast a little countrey , Aeolis . called Aeolis : and beyond that , although not upon the Sea , the two Provinces called Mysia Major , and Mysia Minor ; which in times past , Mysia major , and Mysia minor . were so base and contemptible , that the people thereof were used in speech as a Proverbe , that if a man would describe one meaner than the meanest , it was said , he was Mysiorum postremus .

On the West part of Mysia major , did lye the Countrey called Troas , The City of Troy . wherein stood Jlium , and the City of Troy , against which , as both Virgil and Homer have written , the Graecians did continue their Siege for the space of tenne yeares , by reason that Paris had stollen away Helena , the wife of Menelaus , who was King of Sparta .

Eastward both from Troas and Mysia major , a good space within the land , was the Countrey called Phrygia , Phrygia . where the Goddesse which was called Bona Dea , or Pessinuntia , or Cybele , the Mother of the old Gods , had her first abiding , and from thence ( as Herodian writeth , ) was brought to Rome , as implying that good Fortune should follow her thither .

In this Countrey lived that Gordius , who knit the knot called for the intricatenesse thereof , Nodus Gordianus ; Gordius knot . and when it could not bee untied , was cut in sunder by Alexander the Great , supposing that it should bee his fortune , for the loosing of it so , to bee the Conquerour , and King of Asia , as by a prophecie of the same Gordius had beene before spoken .

Yet North-ward from Phrygia , lyeth the Countrey of Bythinia ; Bythinia . which was sometimes a Kingdome , where Prusias raigned , that had so much to doe with the Romanes .

In this Countrey standeth the Citie Nicea , Citie of Nice . where the first Generall Councell was held against Arius the Heretike , by Constantine the Great , thereof called the Nicene Councell . Here standeth also Chalcedon , where the fourth . Generall Councell was held by the Emperour Martianus , Chalcedon . against the Heretike Nestorius .

From Bythinia Eastward , on the Northside of Asia the lesse , standeth the Countrey of Paphlagonia , Paphlagonia . where was the Citie built by Pompey the Great , called by his name , Pompeiopolis . On the South of Paphlagonia , toward the Iland of Asia Minor , Pompeiopolis . did stand the Countrey of Galatia , whereunto Saint Paul wrote his Epistle to the Galathians . Galatia . And this also was one of those Countries where the Iewes were dispersed , unto which Saint Peter wrote his first Epistle ; as also unto them which were in Pontus , Cappadocia , and Bythinia ; from whence Southward lyeth the Province termed Lycaonia : Lycaonia ; And from thence yet more South , bordering upon Pamphilia , which touches the Mediterranean Sea , lyeth Pisidia , Pisidia . concerning which countries we finde oftentimes mention made in such Stories as doe touch Asia the lesse .

From these Southerne parts , if we returne backe againe unto the North and East of Asia Major , The kingdome of Pontus . lyeth the Kingdome of Pontus , confining upon that which is named Pontus Euxinus . In this Pontus did raigne Mithridates , Mithridates . who in his younger dayes had travelled over the greatest part of Asia , and is reported to have beene so skilfull , that hee could well speake more than twentie Languages . His hatred was ever great towards the Romanes , against whom ; when hee meant first to put his malice in practise , he so combined with the Naturals of those parts , that in one night they slew more than threescore and tenne thousand of the Romanes , carrying their intendment so close , that it was revealed by none , till the execution was done .

Pompey brought Mithridates to distresse . Pompey the Great , was the man who distressed this Mithridates , and brought him to that extremity , that hee would gladly have poysoned himselfe , but could not ; in as much as his stomack had beene used so before unto that kinde of Triacle , ( which by reason of his inventing of , unto this day is called Alithridate ) which is made of a kinde of poyson allayed , that no venome would easily work upon him .

Southward from this Pontus standeth the old Kingdome of Cappadocia , Cappadocia . which in times past was observed to have many men in it , but little money : Whence Horace saith : Mancipiis locuples eget aris Cappadocum Rex .

Armenia Minor . Eastward from this Cappadocia , as also from Pontus , is Armenia Minor ; whereof the things memorable , are described in the other Armenia . And thus much touching Asia the lesse .

Of Syria , and Palestina , or the Holy Land .

SOuthward from Silicia , and Asia the lesse , Syria bounded . lyeth Syria ; a part whereof was called Palaestina : having on the East Mesopotamia , on the South Arabia , on the West Tyre and Sydon , and the end of the Mediterranean Sea .

The people of this Syria were in times past called the Aramites . Their ancient names . In their language is the translation of the new Testament called Syriacke .

Citie of Antioch . In this Countrey standeth Antioch , which was sometimes one of the ancient Patriarchs Seas , and is a Citie of reckoning unto this day . Here also standeth now the Citie of Aleppo , Aleppo . which is a famous Mart Towne for the Merchandizing of the Persians , and others of the East , and for the Turks , and such Countries as be adjoyning . Here standeth also Tripolis . Tripolis .

The South part of Syria lying downe toward Aegypt and Arabia , was the place where the Children of Israel died well , being a Country of small quantity , not 200 Jtalian miles in length : it was so fruitfull flowing with Milke and Honey , ( as the Scripture calleth it ) that it did mayntayne above thirty Kings and their people , Thirty Kings . before the comming of the Children of Israel out of Aegypt , and was sufficient afterwards to relieve the incredible number of the twelve Tribes of Israel .

It is noted of this Countrey , Note . that whereas by the goodnesse of the Climate wherein it stood , and the fertilitie of the Soyle , ( but especially by the blessing of God ) it was the most fruitfull Land that was in the World : Now our Travellers by experience doe finde the Countrey , in respect of the fruitfulnesse , to be changed , God cursing the Land together with the Iewes , the Inhabitants of it . It is observed also for all the Easterne parts , that they are not so fertile as they have beene in former Ages , the Earth ( as it were ) growing olde , which is an Argument of the dissolution to come by the day of Iudgement .

The River Iordan . Through this Countrey doth runne the River Iordan , which hath heretofore beene famous for the fruitfulnesse of the trees standing thereupon , and for the mildnesse of the Ayre , so that ( as Iosephus writeth ) when Snow hath been in other places of the Land , about the River it hath beene so calme , that men did goe in single thinne linnen garments .

In this Countrey standeth the Lake , The Lake Asphaltites . called Lacus Asphaltites , because of a kinde of slime called Bitumen , or Asphaltum , which daily it doth cast up , being of force to joyne stones exceeding fast in building : And into this Lake doth the River Iordan run .

Mare Mortuum . This Lake is it which is called Mare Mortuum , a Sea , because it is salt ; and Mortuum , or Dead , for that no living thing is therein . The water thereof is so thicke , that few things will sinke therein , in so much that Iosephus , saith that an Oxe having all his legges bound , will not sinke into that water .

The nature of this Lake ( as it was supposed ) was turned into this quality , when God did destroy Sodome and Gomorrah , and the Cities adjoyning , with fire and Brimstone from Heaven : for Sodome and the other Cities did stand neere unto Iordan , and to this Mare Mortuum : for the destruction of whom all that Coast to this day is a witnesse , the Earth smelling of Brimstone , being desolate , and yeelding no Fruit saving Apples , which grow with a faire shew to the eye , like other Fruit ; but as soone as they are touched , doe turne presently to soot or ashes , as besides Josephus , Solinus doth witnesse in his 48 Chapter .

Twelve Tribet of Israel . The Land of Palestina had for its Inhabitants , all the Twelve Tribes of Israel , which were under one Kingdome , till the time of Rehoboam the Sonne of Solomon ; But then were they divided into two Kingdomes , ten Tribes being called Israel , and two Iudah , whose chiefe Citie was called Ierusalem . Jerusalem .

Twelve Tribes divided . The ten Tribes , after much Idolatry , were carried prisoners unto Assyria , and the Kingdome dissolved , other people being placed in their roome in Samaria , and the Country adjoyning .

The other two Tribes were properly called the Iewes , and their Land Iudaea ; The Iewes . which continued long after in Ierusalem , and thereabout , till the Captivity of Babylon , where they lived for seventie yeares . They were afterward restored , but lived without glory , till the comming of Christ : But since that time for a curse upon them and their children , for putting Christ to death , they are scattered upon the face of the Earth , as Runnagates , without certaine Countrey , King , Priest , or Prophet .

In their chiefe City Jerusalem . was the Temple of God , first most gloriously built by Salomon ; and afterward destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar . Jerusalem destroyed . By the commandement of Cyrus King of Persia , was a second Temple built , much more base than the former . For besides the poverty , and smalnesse of it , there wanted five things which were in the former , as the Iewes write : Note . First , the Arke of the Covenant : Secondly , the pot of Manna : Thirdly , the Rodde of Aaron : Fourthly , the two Tables of the Law , written by the finger of God : And fiftly , the fire of the Sacrifice , which came downe from Heaven . Herod the Great , an Edomite stranger , having gotten the Kingdome , contrary to the Law of Moses , and knowing the people to be offended therewithall , to procure their favour , did build a third Temple , wherein our Saviour Iesus Christ and his Apostles did teach .

The City of Jerusalem was twice taken , and utterly laid desolate ; Ierusalem twice destroyed . 1 By Nebuchadnezzar . 2 By Vespasian . first , by Nebuchadnezzar , at the Captivitie of Babylon : and secondly , after the death of Christ , by Vespasian the Romane ( who first began the warres ) and by his Sonne Titus , who was afterward Emperour of Rome , who brought such horrible desolation on that Citie , and the people thereof , by Fire , Sword , and Famine , that the like hath not beene read in any History . Hee did afterwards put thousands of them ( on some one day ) to be devoured of the Beasts , which was a cruel Custome of the Romanes magnificence .

Although Numbers and Times be not superstitiously to be observed ( as many foolish imagine ) yet it is a matter in this place , not unworthy the noting , which Iosephus reporteth in his seventh Booke and tenth Chapter , de Bello Iudaico , that the very same day whereon the Temple was set on fire by the Babylonians , was the day whereon the second Temple was set on fire by the Romanes , and that was upon the tenth day of August .

After this destruction , the Land of Iudaea , and the ruines of Ierusalem , were possessed by some of the people adjoyning , till that about sixe hundred yeares since , the Saracens did invade it : for expelling of whom from thence , divers Frenchmen and other Christians , under the leading of Godfrey of Bullen , did assemble themselves , thinking it a great shame , that the Holy Land ( as they called it ) the Citie of Jerusalem , and the place of the Sepulchre of Christ , should bee in the hands of Infidels .

This Godfrey ruled in Ierusalem , by the name of a Duke : but his successours after him , for the space of 87 yeares called themselves Kings of Ierusalem : About which time , Saladine ( who called himselfe King of Aegypt and Asia the lesse ) did winne it from the Christians . For the recovery wherof , Richard the first King of England , together with the French King , and the King of Sicilia , did goe in person with their Armies to Ierusalem ; but although they wonne many things from the Infidels , yet the end was , that the Saracens did retaine the Holy Land .

Roger Hoveden , in the life of Henry the Second , King of England , doth give this memorable note , that at that time when the Citie of Ierusalem and Antioch were taken out of the hand of the Pagans by the meanes of Godfrey of Bullen , and other of his Company , the Pope of Rome that then was , was called Vrbanus ; the Patriarch of Ierusalem , Heraclius ; and the Romane Emperour , Fredericke ; and at the same time when the said Ierusalem was recovered againe by Saladine , the Pope● name was Vrbanus , the Patriarch of Jerusalem , Heraclius , and the Roman Emperour Frederick .

Ierusalem in the Turkes Dominions . The whole Countrey and Citie of Ierusalem , are now in the Dominion of the Turke , who notwithstanding for a great Tribute doth suffer many Christians to abide there .

There are now therefore two or more Monasteries , and Religious Houses , where Friers do abide , and make a good commoditie of shewing the Sepulchre of Christ , and other Monuments unto such Christian Pilgrimes as do use superstitiously to go in Pilgrimage to the Holy Land .

The King of Spaine was wont to call himselfe King of Ierusalem .

Of Arabia .

Arabia bounded , NExt unto the Holy Land , lyeth the great Country of Arabia , having on the North part Palaestina and Mesopotamia ; on the East side , the Gulph of Persia ; on the South , the mayne Ocean of India or Aethiopia : on the West Aegypt , and the great Bay , called Sinus Arabicus , or the Red Sea .

This Countrey is divided into three parts : the North part whereof is called Arabia Deserta , Arabia divided into three parts . the South part which is the greatest , is named Arabia Foelix : and the middle between both that ( which for the abundance of Rockes and Stones ) is called Arabia Petrea , or Petrosa .

Of the Desart of Arabia . The Desart of Arabia , is that place in the which God after the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt , by passing thorow the Red Sea , did keepe his people under Moses for forty yeares , because of their rebellion ; feeding them in the mean time with Manna from Heaven ; and sometimes with water miraculously drawne out of dry Rockes : For the Countrey hath very little water , almost no Trees , and is utterly unfit for Tillage or Corn.

There are no Townes nor inhabitants of this Desart : in Arabia Petrosa are some , but not many .

Arabia Foelix for Fruitfulnesse of ground , and convenient standing every way toward the Sea , is one of the best Countries of the World : and the principall cause why it is called Foelix , is for that it yeeldeth many things in abundance , which in other parts of the World are not to be had ; as Frankincense especially , the most precious Balmes , Mirrhe , and many other both Fruits and Spices , and yeeldeth withall store of some precious stones .

When Alexander the Great was young , after the manner of the Macedonians , hee was to put Incense upon an Altar ; and powring on great store of Frankincense , one of the Nobilitie of his Countrey told him , that hee was too prodigall of that sweet perfume ; and that hee should make spare , untill hee had conquered the Land wherein the Frankincense did grow : But when Alexander afterward had taken Arabia , and had possession thereof , hee sent a Ship load of Frankincense to the Noble man , and bad him serve the Gods plentifully , and not offer Incense miserably .

Mahumet born in Arabia . This is that Countrey wherein Mahumet was borne , who being of meane parentage , was brought up in his youth in the trade of Merchandize ; but afterward joyning himselfe with Theeves and Robbers , his life was to rob such Merchants as passed thorow Arabia ; and to this purpose having gotten together many of his own Countrimen , hee had afterward a whole Legion or more of the Romane Souldiers , who being offended with Heraclius the Romane Emperour for want of their pay , joyned themselves to him ; so that at length hee had a great Army , where with hee spoyled the Countries adjoyning : And this was about the yeare of Christ six hundred .

To maintaine his credit and authority with his own men , hee fained that hee had conference with the Holy Ghost at such times as hee was troubled with the Falling sicknesse : and accordingly he ordained a new Religion , consisting partly of Iewish Ceremonies , and partly of Christian Doctrine , and some other things of his own invention , that he might inveagle both Iewes and Christians , and yet by his owne fancie distinguish his own Followers from both .

The Booke of his Religion is called the Alcoran . The Turkes Alcaron . the people which were his Sectaries ( whereas indeed they came of Hagar , the Hand-maid of Sarah , Abrahams wife , and therefore should of her be called Ishmaelites , or Hagarens ) because they would not seeme to come of a Bond-woman , and from him whom they suppose a Bastard , they terme themselves Saracens , as comming from Sarah ; they are called by some Writers , Arabians , instead of Saracens , their name being drawn from their first Countrey .

The Turkes Religion . Mahumet did take something of his doctrine both from the Iewes and Christians : as that there is but on God ; that there is a life eternall in another World ; and the ten Commandements , which they doe admit and beleeve : but from the Jewes alone , the false Prophet did borrow divers things , as that all his males should bee circumcised , that they should eate no Swines-flesh ; that they should oftentimes bathe , purge and wash themselves ; which divers of their people , which are more religious than the ordinary sort , doe five times in the day , and therefore they have neere to their Churches and Houses of Devotion , divers Baths ; whereinto when they have entred and washed themselves , they doe perswade themselves that they are as cleere from sinne , as they were the first day they were born .

The City Mecha . In this Countrey of Arabia , standeth a Citie called Mecha , where is the place where Mahumet was buried , and in remembrance of him there is builded a great Temple , unto which the Turkes and Saracens yearely goe on Pilgrimage , ( as some Christians doe to the Holy Land : ) For they account Mahumet to be the greatest Prophet that ever came into the World ; saying , that there were three great Prophets , Moses , Christ , and Mahumet : and a the doctrine of Moses was bettered by Christ , so the Doctrine of Christ is amended by Mahumet . In this respect , as we reckon the computation of our yeares from the Incarnation of Christ , so the Saracens account their from the time of Mahumet .

The Turks , The Turkes biginning and their Religion . whose Fame began now about 300 yeares since , have imbraced the opinions and religion of the Saracens , concerning Mahumet . Some of our Christians doe report , that Medina a Citie standing three dayes journey from Mecha , is the place where Mahumet was buried , and that by order from himselfe , his body was put into an Iron Coffin , which being carried into a Temple , the roofe or vault whereof was made of Adamant , or perhaps of the Loadstone , is attracted unto the top of the vault , & there hangeth , being supported by nothing . But there is no certainty of this Narration .

This false Prophet ( as Lodovicus Vives , de veritate fidei , doth write ) being desirous in some sort to imitate Christ Iesus , who foretold that hee should rise againe within the space of 3 dayes , did give out that himselfe should rise againe , but hee appointed a larger time , that was after 800 yeeres , The blasphemous prophecie of Mahumet . and yet that time also is expired , but wee heare no newes of the resurrection of Mahumet . As the Devill hath ever some device to blinde the eyes of unbeleevers , so hee hath suffered it to be reported , and credited among the Turkes , that as Moses did allude to the comming of Christ , so Christ did foretell somewhat of the appearing of Mahumet . Whereupon it is ordinarily received among them , that when Christ , in S. Johns Gospel , did say , That although hee departed , he would send them a Comforter , it was added in the Text , and that shall be Mahumet : But that the Christians in malice to them , have raced out those words .

Their owne Bookes doe mention that Mahumet ( while hee lived ) was much given to lasciviousnesse , Mahumet a lasciviou●●s person . and all uncleannesse of body , even with very beasts ; and his followers are so senslesse , that in imitation of him they thinke no such wickednesse to be unlawfull : For they are utterly unlearned , and most receive whatsoever is delivered unto them out of the Alcoran , Mahumet having made it a matter of death to dispute , sift , or call in question any thing which is written in his Law .

On the Westside of Arabia , betweene that and Aegypt , lyeth the Gulph called of the Country Sinus Arabicus ; by some , Mare Erythraeum , but commonly the Red Sea , The Red Sea . not of one Erythrus as some suppose , but because the Land and bankes thereabout are ( in colour ) red . This is that Sea , through the which ( by Moses ) the people of Israel were led , when they fled out of Egypt from Pharaoh ; God causing by his power , the waters to stand on both sides of them , that they passed through as on dry Land .

This is that Sea , through which the Spices of the East Indies were in times past brought to Alexandria in Egypt , and from thence dispersed into Christendome by the Venetians : which Spices , and Apothecaries drugs are found to be farre worse than before time they were , by reason of the great moysture which they take on the water , by reason of the long Navigation of the Portugales by the back part of Africa .

This is that Sea , through the which Salomon did send for his Gold , and other precious Merchandize unto the East Indies , and not to the West Indies , as some lately have disputed . Whereout the vanity . of that opinion may appeare that America and the West Indies were knowne in the time of Salomon . For if he had sent thither , his course had beene along the Mediterranean , and through the straits of Gibralter , commonly called Fretum Herculeum , betweene Spaine and Barbary : But the Scripture telleth , that the Navy which Salomon sent forth , was built at Ezion-Geber which is there also said to stand on the Red Sea . So his course might be Eastward , or Southward , and not Westward .

Mount Horeb. In the Desart of Arabia is the Mount Horeb , which by some is supposed to be the same that is called Mount Sina , where many think it was that Abraham should have offered up his Sonne Isaac . But this is certaine , that it was the place where God in the Wildernesse did give unto the people of Israel his Law of the ten Commandements , in Thundring , Lightning , and great Earth-quake , in most fearfull manner .

Of Africk and Egypt .

FRom Arabia and Palestina , toward the West lyeth Africke ; Situation of Africk . having on the North side , from the one end of it to the other , the Mediterranean Sea . The greatest part of which Countrey , although it hath beene ghessed at by Writers in former time , yet because of the great heat of it , lying for the most part of it under the Zona Torrida , and for the Wildernesses therein , it was in former time supposed by many , not to bee much inhabited : but of certainty by all , to be very little discovered , till the Portugals of late began their Navigation on the backside of Africa , to the East Jndies . So exact a description is therefore not to be looked for , as hath beene of Asia and Europe .

The Countrey of Egypt . Ioyning to the Holy Land , by a little Isthmos , is the Countrey of Egypt , which is a Land as fruitfull as any almost in the world , although in these dayes it doth not answere to the fertility of former times .

This is that which in the time of Ioseph did relieve Canaan with corne , and the family of Iacob , which did so multiply in the land of Aegypt , that they were growne to a huge multitude , when God by Moses did deliver them thence .

This Countrey did yeeld exceeding abundance of Corne unto the Citie of Rome , Jts fertility . whereupon Aegypt , as well as Sicilia , was commonly called Horreum populi Romani .

It is observed from all antiquity , that almost never any raine did fall in the land of Aegypt . Whereupon the raining with thunder & lightning , & fire running on the ground was so much more strange , when God plagued Pharaoh , in the dayes of Moses : But the flowing of the River Nilus over all the Countrey , ( their Cities onely , and some few Hils excepted ) doth so water the Earth , that it bringeth forth fruit abundantly .

The flowing of Nilus . The flowing of which River yearly , is one of the greatest miracles of the World , no man being able to yeeld a sufficient and assured reason thereof ; although in Herodotus and Diodorus Siculus , many probable causes and opinions are assigned thereof .

That there doth not use any raine to fall in Aegypt , besides other heathen testimonies , and experiences of Travailers may bee gathered out of the Scripture , for in the 10 chapter of Deuteronomy , GOD doth make an Antithesis betweene the Land of Canaan , and Aegypt , saying , that Aegypt was watered as a man would water a Garden of herbes , that is to say , by the hand : But they should come into a Land which had Hils , and Mountains , and which was watered with the raine of Heaven and yet some have written , that ever now and then there is mistes in Aegypt , which yeeld , though not Raine , yet a pretty Dew .

It is noted of this River , that if in ordinary places it do flow under the height of fifteene cubits , that then for want of moysture , the earth is not fruitfull , and if it doe flow above seventeene Cubits , that there is like to be a dearth , by reason of the abundance of moysture , the Water lying longer on the Land than the inhabitants doe desire .

It is most probably conjectured , that the falling and melting of Snow , from those Hils which bee called Luna Montes , doe make the increase of the River Nilus . And the custome of the people in the Southerne parts of Arabia is , that they do receive into Ponds & Dams the water that doth hastily fall , and the same they let out with Sluces , some after some , which causeth it orderly to come downe into the plaines of Aegypt .

For the keeping up of these Dammes , the Countrey of Aegypt hath time out of minde , paid a great tribute to Prester John : Which when of late it was denyed by the Turke , Prester John caused all the Sluces to bee letten goe on the sudden , whereby hee marvellously annoyed , & drowned up a great part of the Country of Aegypt .

Learning very ancient in Egypt . In Aegypt , learning hath bin very ancient , but especially the knowledge of Astronomy and Mathematickes ; whereof before the time of Tull●e , their Priests would report , that they had the discent of 1500. yeares exactly recorded , with observations Astrologicall ; which as it is a fable , unlesse they doe reckon their yeares by the Moone ( as some suppose they did , every Moneth for a yeare ) so it doth argue knowledge to have beene among them very ancient .

Their Priests had among them a kinde of writing , and describing of things by picture , which they did call their Hicroglyphica .

This in times ●past was a Kingdome , Their Pyramides , one of the Wonders of the world . and by the Kings thereof were built those great Pyramides which were held to be one of the seven wonders of the world , being mighty huge buildings , erected of exceeding height , for to shew the magnificence of their founders .

There is part of two or three of them remaining unto this day .

Divers learned men are at this day of opinion , that when the children of Israel were in Aegypt , and so oppressed by Pharaoh , as is mentioned in the beginning of the booke of Exodus , that their labour in burning of Bricke , was partly imployed to the erecting of some of those Pyramides ; but the Scripture doth onely mention walling of Cities .

The Founders of these Pyramides , were commonly buried in , or under them : and it is not unfit to remember , that the Kings , and great men of Aegypt , had much cost bestowed upon them after they were dead .

For in as much as Arabia was neere unto them , whence they had most precious Balmes , and other costly Spices , they did with charge embalme their dead , and that with such curious art , that the flesh therof and the skin , will remaine unputrified for divers hundred yeares : and all learned men thinke thousands of yeares : Whereof experiments are plentifull at this day , by the whole bodies , hands , or other parts , which by Merchants are now brought from thence , and doth make the Mummia which the Apothecaries use : the colour being very blacke , and the flesh clung unto the bones .

Moses doth speake of this ; when he saith , that Iacob was embalmed by the Physicians ; after the manner of embalming of the Aegyptians . But this manner of embalming is ceased long since in Aegypt .

The Citie Memphis . In Aegypt did stand the great Citie Memphis , which at this day is called Caire , one of the famous Cities of the East .

Here did Alexander build that Citie which unto this day is of his name , called Alexandria : being now the greatest Citie of Merchandize in all Aegypt : of which Amianus Marcellinus doth observe , that there was never any , or almost hath ever beene , but that once in the day the Sunne hath beene ever seene to shine over Alexandria . This Citie was one of the foure Patriarchall Seas , which were appointed in the first Nicene Councell .

Good Lawes made by the Kings of Egypt . This Countrey was governed by a King , as long agoe as almost any Countrey in the World . Here raigned Amasis , who made those good Lawes spoken of by Herodotus , and Diodorus Siculus : in whose writings , the ancient customes of the Aegyptians are worthy to be read .

After Alexanders time , Ptolomeus one of his Captaines had this Kingdome , of whom all his successors were called Ptolemies , as before time all their Kings were called Pharaohs , they continued long friends and in league with the people of Rome , till the time of Iulius Caesar ; but afterward they were as subjects to the Romanes , til● the Empire did decay .

When they had withdrawne themselves from the Romanes governement , they set up a Prince of their owne : whom they termed the Sultan , or Souldan of Aegypt ; of whom , about 400. yeares since Saladine was one . But when the race of these were out , the Mamalukes ( who were the guard of the Sultane , as the Ianisaries be to the Turk ) appointed a Prince at their pleasure ; till that now , about an 100. yeares agoe , or lesse , the Turke Selimus possessed himselfe with the sole government of the Countrey : so that at this day Aegypt is wholly under the Turke .

There bee Christians that now live in Aegypt , paying their tribute unto the Turke , as others doe now also in Gracia .

Aeneas Silvius doth report in his History , De mundo universo , cap. 60. that divers did goe about to digge through that little Istmos or Strait , which at the top of the Red Sea doth joyne Aegypt to some part either of Arabia , or of the Holy Land ; imagining the labour not to bee great , in as much as they conceived the space of ground to be no more than 1500 furlongs . Sesostris the King of Aegypt ( as he saith ) did first attempt this . Secondly , Darius , the great Monarch of the Persians . Thirdly , Ptolomy , one of the Kings of Aegypt , who drew a ditch a hundred foot broad , thirty foot deepe , and thirty seven Miles and a halfe long ; but when hee intended to goe forward , hee was forced to cease , for feare of inundation , and over-flowing the whole land of Aegypt ; the Red Sea being found to bee higher ( by three Cubites ) than the ordinary plaine of Aegypt was . But Plinie affirmeth , that the digging was given over , lest the Sea being let in , should marre the water of Nilus , which alone doth yeeld drinke to the Aegyptians .

Pet. Maffaeus in his Indian story , doth tell , that there was a Portugall also , that of late yeares had a conceit to have had this worke finished , that so hee might have made the third part of the old knowne world Africa , to have beene an Iland compassed round with the Sea .

Men commonly in the description of Aegypt , doe report that whole Country to stand in Africke , but if wee will speake exactly , and repute Nilus to bee the bound betweene Asia and Africke , we must then acknowledge that the Eastern part of Aegypt , from Nilus , and so forward to the Red Sea , doth lye in Asia ; which is observed by Peter Martyr , in that pretty Treatise of his De legatione Babylonica .

Although this Countrey of Aegypt doth stand in the selfe same Climate that Mauritania doth , yet the inhabitants there are not black , but rather dunne , or tawny . Of which colour Cleopatra was observed to be ; who by inticement , so wonne the love of Julius Caesar , and Antony : And of that colour doe those runnagates ( by devices make themselves to be ) who goe up and downe the world under the name of Aegyptians , being indeed but counterfeits , and the refuse or rascality of many Nations .

Of Cyrene and Africke the lesse .

ON the West side of Aegypt , lying along the Mediterranean , The Countrey of Cyrene . is a Country which was called in old time , Cyrene ; wherein did stand that Oracle which was so famous in the time of Alexander the Great , called by the name of the Temple or Oracle of Jupiter Hammon , whither when Alexander did repaire , as to take counsell of himselfe , and his successe , the Priests being before taught what they should say , did flatteringly professe him to bee the Sonne of God , and that he was to be adored : So that as the Oracle of Delphos , and some other were plaine delusions of Sathan , who did raigne in that darke time of ignorance : so this of Iupiter Hammon , may be well supposed to be nothing else , but a cousenage of the Priests .

In this Countrey , and all neere about where the Oracle stood , are very great Wildernesses : where did appear to Alexander for foure daies journey , neither Grasse , Tree , Water , Man , Bird , nor Beast , but onely a deepe kinde of sand : so that hee was enforced to carry water with him for himselfe and his company ( and all other provision ) on Cammels backs .

At this day , this Countrey hath lost his old name , and is reckoned as a part of Aegypt , and lyeth under the Turke .

In dry Countries , as in Africa , and the Wildernesse of Arabia , they have much use of Cammels . First , because they can carry a huge burthen of water and other provision : Secondly , because that themselves will goe a long time without drinke , travelling ( as Solinus writeth ) foure dayes together without it ; but then drinking excessively , and that especially of muddy and puddle water : And thirdly , because that in an extremity , those that travell with them doe let them bloud in a veine , and sucke out the bloud ; whereby as the owner is much relieved , so the Camell is little the worse .

Westward from this Countrey , along the Mediterranean , lieth that which in ancient time was called Africa minor : for as in Asia one part above another was by an excellency called Asia , or Asia the lesse : so this part of Africke , was termed by the Romanes , sometimes Africa simply , sometime Africa the lesse .

In this Countrey did stand that place so famous , mentioned by Salust , under the name of Phillenorum arae : which was the bound in that time , betweene Africke and Cyrene .

On the North and East part hereof , in the Sea neere unto the shore , was that Quick-sand , which in times past did destroy so many ships , and was called Syrtis magna : as also on the North and West part , was the other sand called Syrtis parva . Some part of this Countrey was heretofore under the Sultan of Egypt , whose dominion did extend it self so farre to the West and there was diuided from the Kingdome of Tunis : but it is now wholly under the Turk , and is commonly reputed as a part of Barbary . For now , by a generall name from the confines of Cyrene unto the West , as farre as Hercules Piller , is called Barbary ; though it containe in it divers Kingdomes , as Tunis , Fessa , and Morocco .

Of Mauritania Caesariensi .

A Part of that country , which by a generall name is called at this day Barbarie , hath in old time beene called Mauritania , which was divided into two parts : the East part whereof next to Africa minor , was called by the Romanes Mauritania Caesariensis , as the other was called Mauritania Tingitana . In Mauritania Caesariensi was the Countrey of Numidia , the people whereof were used in the Warres of the Carthaginians , as Light-horsmen , and for all nimble services were very active .

In the East part of this Countrey standing in the Sea , was that famous Citie of Carthage , Carthage a famous City supposed to be built by Dido , who came from Tyrus .

This City was it , which for the space of some hundred yeares contended with Rome , for the Empire of the World . In the Romane Histories are recorded the great Warres which the people of Rome had with the City of Carthage .

In the first warre of the three , the contention was for the Iles of Cicilia , Corsica , and Sardinia : when the victory fell to the Romans , and the Carthaginians were glad to redeeme their peace with the leaving of those Ilands .

The second warre was begun by Hannibal , who brake the League , and after he had taken some part of Spain from the Romanes , and sacked Saguntum , a Citie of their Friends , came first over the Pyrenay hils to France , then over the Alpes to Italy , where hee overthrew the Romanes in three great Battels , and much endangered their estate : hee continued in Italy with his Army sixteene yeares , till Scipio attempting on Carthage , forced Hannibal to returne to rescue his owne Countrey . There was Hannibal overthrowne , and his City put to a great pension by Scipio , who for his victory there was named Africanus .

In the third Warre ( because the people of Carthage still brake the League ) their City was razed to the very ground by the earnest and continuall counsell of Cato the Elder , fearing evermore so dangerous a Neighbour , though Scipio Nasica counselled to the contrary : fearing lest if the dread of that enemy were taken away , the Romans would grow either to idlenesse , or civill dissention ; which after they did . It is reported of Cato , that hee never spake his judgement of any thing in the Senate , but his conclusion was thus : Thus I think for this matter , and withall that Carthage is to be razed down . And Scipio Nasica would reply in his conclusion : Thus I thinke for this matter , and withall that Carthage is not to bee razed down .

Livie reporteth , that the way whereby Cato prevayled that Carthage should be razed downe , was this ; while the question was very hot , hee bringeth into the Sen●te house greene Figges , and let the Senatours understand , that the same day three weeks , those Figges were growing in Carthage Town : wherby hee made manifest unto them , that it was possible that an Army might be conveyed from Carthage to Rome in so short a time as that they would not be able ( on a suddaine ) to resist , and so Rome might be surprized : whereby they all concluded , that it was no safety for their City to have a bad Neighbour so neer unto them .

In this Countrey toward the West , not farre from Carthage , stood Vtica , whereof the younger Cato was tearmed Cato Vticensis , because hee killed himselfe there in the civill warres betwixt Caesar and Pompey , because he would not come within the hands of his enemy Caesar .

Not farre from thence westward , standeth Hippo , which was the City where S. Augustine was Bishop .

This whole Countrey ( at this day ) is called the Kingdome of Tunis ; the King whereof , is a kinde of stipendary unto the Turke : the people that inhabit there are generally Saracens , and doe professe Mahumet .

Some doe write that Tunis standeth in the very place where olde Carthage was ; which is not so , but is situated very neere unto the old ruines of the other . Against the king of Tunis , Charles the fift had some of his warres by Sea .

Of Mauritania Tingitana .

THe other part of Barbary that lyeth along the Mediterranean , farthest into the West , was called in old time , Mauritania Tingitana . The people of which Countrey were those which almost in al the old Histories were called by the name of Mauri : Those of the other Mauritania being rather termed Numidae .

Into the North-west part therof , did Hercules come , and there did set up one of his pillars , which answereth to the other in Spain , they both being at the straits of Gilbralter , in times past called Fretum Herculeum . On the South part thereof , lay the * * The kingdome of Bocchus kingdom of Bocchus , which in the time of Marius , had so much to doe with the Romans . In the west part of this Mauritania standeth the Hill called Atlas minor , Atlas minor . Atlas major . & on the South part , is the great Hill called Atlas major ; whereof the maine Ocean which lyeth betweene Mauritania and America , is called Mare Atlanticum . This hill is so high , that unto those who stood on the bottome of it , it seemed to touch heaven with his shoulders .

This Countrey hath beene long inhabited by the Saracens ; who from thence finding it to be but a short passage into Spaine , did goe over ( now seven hundred yeares agoe ) and possessed there the Kingdome of Granado , on the South side of Spaine , till they were thence expelled by Ferdinandus and Elizabeth , or Isabel , King and Queene of Castile . In this Countrey since that time , have the Spaniards taken some Cities and Holds ; and so also have the Portugals : which by the divers event of victory , have often beene lost and won by them .

Here it was that the Emperour Charles the Fift , had divers of his great Warres against the Moores , as well as in the Kingdome of Tunis . For the assistance of one , who claymed to bee King of a part of this Countrey , did Sebastian the King of Portugale goe with all his power into Africa , in the Yeare 1578. where unadvisedly bearing himselfe , hee was slaine together with two other , the same day , who claymed to be Kings : so that there it was that the Battell was fought , whereof it was said , that * * Three Kings slaine in one day at the battle of Aleazar . three Kings died in one day , which battell is called the battell of Aleazar , and was the ruine of the Kingdome of Portugale , and the cause of the uniting it to the Crowne of Spaine . Astrologers did suppose , that the blazing Starre which appeared the Yeare before , did signifie that ill event .

This whole Countrey doth maintaine in it , besides some Imperiall Government , two absolute Kingdomes : * * The kingdome of Fez● ▪ the one of Fezza or Fez , which lyeth on the North part toward the Mediterranean and Spain : the other is the Kingdome of * * The kingdome of Morocco . Morroco , which lyeth from above the Hill Atlas minor , to the South and West part of Mauritania . These are both Saracens , as be also their people ; holding true League with the Turke , and with some other Christian Princes ; a League onely for Traffick and Merchandize .

It may be doubted whether it was in this Mauritania Tingitana , or rather but neere unto it , in Mauritania Caesariensi , that which Saint Augustine in his Booke De doctrina Christiana , doth of his owne knowledge report , that in a Citie of that Countrey was this brutish custome , that once in the yeare ( for certaine dayes ) the Inhabitants of the place did assemble themselves into wide and large fields , A brutish custome used in this Country . and there divided themselves each from other , so that perhaps the Fathers were on one fide , and the children or brothers on the other ; and did throw stones with such violence that many were hurt , and divers killed with the fury of that assault .

But S. Austine telleth , that he detesting the bruitishnesse thereof , did make a most eloquent and elaborate Oration or Sermon unto them : whereby he did prevaile with those of the Citie where hee was , that they gave over that foolish and rude exercise : Yet Leo Affricanus , who lived a hundred yeares since , and in his owne person travelled over the greatest part of Africke , doth write in his description of Africke , that in one place of the kingdome of Fez , the like barbarous custome is yet retained .

Of the other Countries of Africke , lying neere the Sea .

FRom beyond the hill Atlas major , unto the South of Africke , is nothing ( almost in Antiquity ) worthy the reading : and those things which are written ( for the most part ) are sables : For towards the South part of Africke , as well as towards the North parts of Europe and Asia , be supposed to be * * Men of strange shapes . men of strange shapes , as some with Dogs heads , some without heads , and some with one foot alone , which was very huge , and such like ; which that counterfeit Fryer , ( who writ that Booke which is counted Saint Augustines , ad fratres in Eremo ; and who would gladly father upon Saint Augustine the erecting of the Augustine Fryers ) doth say , that he saw travelling downe from Hippo , Southward in Africa : But as the Asse in Aesope , which was clothed in the Lyons skin , did by his long cares shew himselfe to be an Asse , and not a Lyon : So this foolish fellow , by his lying , doth shew himselfe to bee a counterfeit , and not Saint Augustine .

In the new Writers there are some few things to be observed : as first , that all the people in generall to the South , lying within the Zonatorrida , are not onely blackish , like the Moores , but are exceeding blacke . And therfore as in old time , by an excellency , some of them are called Nigritae , so at this day they are named * * Negros . Negros , as then whom no men are blacker .

Secondly , the inhabitants of all these parts which border on the Sea-coast , even unto Caput bonae spei , have beene Gentiles , * adoring Images and foolish shapes for their Gods , Their Religion . neither hearing of Christ , nor beleeving on Mahumet , til such time as the Portugals comming among them , have professed Christ for themselves , but have wonne few of the people to embrace their religion .

The Portugals have bere settled themselves . * Thirdly , that the Portugalls passing along Africa to the East-Indies , have setled themselves in many places of those Countries , building Castles and Townes for their owne safety , and to keepe the people in subjection , to their great commodity .

One of the first Countries famous beyond Morocco , is * * The countrey of Guinea . Guinea , which we call Ginnle , within the compasse whereof , lyeth the Cape , called the Cape Verde , and the other , the Cape of the three points : and the Towne and Castle named Sierta Liona , at which place ( as commonly all Travellers doe touch that doe passe that way for fresh water , and other ship provision ) our English-men have found * * Their Commodities for trade . trafficke into the parts of this Countrey , where their greatest commodity is Gold , and Elephants teeth ; of both which there is good store .

Beyond that , toward the South , not farre from the Equinoctiall , lyeth the * * The kingdome of Congo . Kingdome of Congo , commonly called Mani-congo . Where the Portugals at their first arrivall finding the people to be Heathens , without God , did induce them to a profession of Christ , and to bee baptized in great abundance , allowing of the principles of Religion , untill such time as the Priest did teach them to lead their lives according to their profession ; which the most part of them in no case enduring , they returned back again to their * * Their Religion . Gentilisme .

Beyond Mani-congo so farre to the South as almost ten degrees beyond the Tropicke of Capricorne , lyeth the Lands end ; which is a Promontory , now called Caput bonae spei , which Vascus Gama the Portugall did discover , and so called it , because he had there good hope that the Land did turne to the North ; and that following the course thereof hee might be brought to Arabia and Persia , but especially to Calecut in India . Which course , when himselfe , and other of his Countrey-men after him did follow , they found on the Coast up towards Arabia , the Kingdome of * * The three Kingdomes of Mosambique , Melinda , Magadazo , &c. Mosambique , Melinda , Magadazo , and other ; whose people were all Gentiles , and now are in League with the Portugales , who have built divers Holds for their safety . Of which Countries , and manners of the people , he that listeth to read , may find much in the Historie of Osorius , and Petrus Maffaeus ; but there is no matter of any great importance .

Beyond the Cape toward the North , before you come to Mosambique , betweene the Rivers of Cuama and Sancto Spirito , lies the * * The kingdome of Monomotapa . Kingdome of Monomotapa , where the Portugales also have arrived , and so much was done there by the preaching of Gonsalvo de Sylva , a Iesuite , that the King and Queene of that Countrey with many others were converted from * * Their Religion . Gentilisme to Christianity and baptized : But certaine Mahumetans incensing the King thereof afterwards against the Portugales , made him to revolt from his Religion , and to put to death this Iesuite and divers others : which Fact of his , the Portugals assaying to revenge with an Army sent for out of Portugall they profited little against him , but were themselves consumed by the discommodities of the Countrey , and the distemperature of the ayre .

There are also other Kingdomes in this part of Africke , of whom we know little besides their names and site in generall , as * * The kingdome of Adel , &c. Adel , Monomugi , Angola , and therefore it shall be sufficient to have named them in a word .

Of Abissines , and the Empire of Prestor Iohn .

IN the In-land of Africke , * * The Situation of the Empire of Prester Iohn . lyeth a very large Countrey , extending it selfe on the East to some part of the Red Sea , on the South to the kingdome of Melinda , and a great way farther , on the North to Aegypt ; on the West to Manicongo . The people whereof are called Abissini ; and it selfe the dominion of him , whom wee commonly call in English Prester Iohn ; but in Latine some terme him Pretiosus Iohannes , but the most part , Presbyter Iohannes , writing of him . As hee is a Prince absolute , so hee hath also a Priest-like or Patriarchall function and jurisdiction among them . * * One of the greatest in the world . This is a very mighty Prince , and reputed to bee one of the greatest Emperours in the world .

What was knowne of this countrey in former time , was knowne under the name of Aethiopia , but the voyages of the Portugalls in these late dayes have best described it . The people thereof are Christians , * * Their Religion . as is also their Prince ; but differing in many things from the West Church ; and in no sort acknowledging any supreme prerogative of the Bishop of Rome . It is thought that they have retained Christianity even from the time of our Saviour , being supposed to bee converted by the Chamberlaine of Candace , the Queene of Aethiopia , who was instructed concerning Christ , by Philip the Evangelist , in the Actes of the Apostles . Eusebius in his Ecclesiasticall story doth make mention of this . But they doe to this day retaine Circumcision : whereof the reason may be , that the E●nuch ( their Converter ) not having any further conference with the Apostle , nor any else with him , did receive the Ceremonies of the Church imperfectly , retayning Circumcision : which among the Iewes was not abolished , when he had conference with Philip.

Within the dominion of Prester John , are the Mountains commonly called * * Lunae montes . Lunae montes : where is the first wel-spring and rising of the river Nilus . Yet there are that fetch the head of this River out of a certaine great Lake toward the South , called Zembre : out of which toward the West runnes the River of Zaire , into the Kingdome of Moni-congo ; The River of Zuama or Cuama , towards the South , to the Kingdome of Monomotapa , or Benomotapa , as this River Nilus towards the North , through the Kingdome of the Abissines to Aegypt , which River running violently along this Countrey , and sometimes hastily increasing by the melting of much Snow from the Mountaynes , would over-runne and drowne a great part of Aegypt , but that it is slaked by many Ponds , Dammes , and Sluces , which are within the Dominion of Prester Iohn . And in respect hereof , for the maintenance of these , the Princes of Aegypt have paid unto the Governour of the * * The Abissines drowned Egypt . Abissines a great Tribute time out of minde : which of late the great Turke supposing it to be a custome needlesse , did deny ; till the people of the Abissins by commandement of their Prince , did breake downe their Dammes , and drowning Aegypt did enforce the Turke to continue his pay , and to give much mony for the new making of them , very earnestly to his great charge , desiring a peace .

In this Countrey also of Prester Iohn , is the rising of the Famous River * * The River Nigar . Nigar , supposed to have in it the most and the best precious stones of any River in the World , which rising likewise out of a great Lake out of that Mount , after it hath runne a good space hideth it selfe for the space of sixty miles under ground , then appearing againe after it hath runne somewhat further makes a great Lake , and againe after a great Tract , another ; and at last after a long course , fals at Cape Verde , into the Atlantick Sea .

Ortelius in his larger Mappes describes it falling into the Sea , like Nilus in Egypt , with seven streames or Ostia : but those that travell these parts say , that there are only some Bayes , but there is no River in those parts running into the Sea , but Senega .

There bee other Countries in Africke , * * Countrie 3 more in Africk . as Agisimba , Lybia , interior , Nubia , and others , of whom nothing is Famous : but this may be said of Africke in generall , that it bringeth forth store of all sorts of wild Beasts , as Elephants , Lions , Panthers , Tygres , and the like : yea , according to the Proverbe , Africa semper aliquid apportat novi ; Oftentimes new and * * Strange shapes of wild beasts . strange shapes of wilde beasts are brought forth there ; the reason whereof is , that the Countrey being very hot , and full of Wildernesses , which have in them little water , the Beasts of all sorts being enforced to meet at those few watering places that bee , where oftentimes contrary kinds have conjunction the one with the other : so that there ariseth a new king of Species which taketh part of both . Such a one is the Leopard , begotten of the Lion , and the Beast called Pardus , and somewhat resembling either of them . And thus farre of Africk .

Of the Northerne Ilands .

THe Ilands that do lie in the North are in number almost infinite : the chief of them onely shall bee briefly touched . Very farre to the North in the same Climate almost with Sweden , that is , under the Circle Articke , lyeth an Iland called in old time * * Thule . Thule , which was then supposed to be the farthest part of the world North-ward , & therfore is called by Virgil , Vltima Thule . The Countrey is cold , the people barbarous , and yeeldeth little * * Their commodities . commodity , saving Hawkes ; in some part of the yeare , there is no night at all . Vnto this land divers of our English Nation doe yearely travell , and doe bring from thence good store of Fish , but especially our deepest and thickest Ling , which are therefore called Island-Lings .

It hath pleased God , * * Their Religion . that in these latter times , the Gospell is there preached , and the people are instructed in Christianity , having also the knowledge of good Learning , which is brought about by the meanes of the King of Sweden , unto whom that Iland is now subject .

There is lately written by one of of that Nation a pretty Treatise in Latine , which describeth the manner of that Countrey ; and it is to be seene in the first Tome of master Hackluits Voyages .

Southward from thence , lyeth * * Frizeland Frizeland , called in Latine Frizlandia ; whereas the Frizeland joyning to Germany , is in Latine called Frizia .

On the coast of Germany , one of the seventeene Provinces is called * * Zealand , in it standeth Flushen and Middleburge . Zealand , which containeth in it divers Ilands ; in whom little is famous , saving that in one of them is Flishen , or Flushen , a towne of war , and Middleburge is another , a place of good Mart.

Levinus Lemnius , and some of the low Germanes , bee of opinion , that this Citie first was built by Metellus the Romane ; and that which now is called Middleburge , was at the first termed Metelli Burgum .

The States of the Low-countries , doe hold this Province against the King of Spaine . These Ilands have beene much troubled of late with inundation of water .

The Iland that lyeth most West of any fame , is * * Ireland . Ireland , which had in it heretofore many Kings of their owne : but the whole Land is now annexed to the Crowne of England . The people naturally are rude and superstitious , the Countrey good and fruitfull , but that for want of tillage in divers places , they suffer it to grow into Bogges and Desarts . * * A rare and admirable Note . It is true of this Countrey ( which Solinus ) writeth of some other ) that Serpents and Adders doe not breed there ; and in the Irish Timber , of certaine experience , no Spiders webbe is ever found .

* * Of Britaine . The most renowned Iland in the world is Albion , or Britannia , which hath heretofore contained in it many severall Kingdomes ; but especially in the time of the Saxon. It hath now in it two Kingdomes , England and Scotland , wherein are * * Foure languag●s there spoken . foure severall Languages ; that is , the English ( which the civill Scots doe barbarously speake ) the Welsh tongue ( which is the Language of the old Britaines ; ) the Cornish , ( which is the proper speech of Cornewall , ) and the Irish , ( which is spoken by those Scots which live on the west part of Scotland , neere unto Jreland . ) The commodities and pleasures of England are well knowne unto us , and many of them are expressed in this Verse :

Anglia , Mons , Pons , Fons , Ecclesia , Foemina , Lana . England is stor'd with Bridges , Hils , and Wooll ; With Churches , Wels , and Women beautifull .

* * Their originall . The ancient inhabitants of this Land were the Britaines , which were afterward driven into a corner of the Countrey , now called Wales ; and it is not to be doubted , but at the first this Countrey was peopled from the continent of France , or thereabout , when the sonnes of Noah had spread themselves from the East to the West part of the World . It is not strange to see why the people of that Nation doe labour to fetch their pedigree from one Brutus , whom they report to come from Troy ; because the originall of that Truth began by Galfriaus Monumetensis , above five hundred yeares agone , and his Booke contayneth great shew of Truth , but was noted by Nubringensis , or some Authour of his time , to be meerely fabulous : Besides that , many of our English Nation have taxed the saying of them , who would attribute the name of Britannia unto Brutus , and Cornubia to Corynaeus , Aenaeas Sylvius , Epist. 1.3 . hath thought good to confirme it , saying . The English people ( saith hee ) doe report , that after Troy was overthrowne , one Brutus came unto them , from whom their Kings doe fetch their Pedegrees ; which matter there are no more Historians that deliver , besides a certain English man , which had some learning in him , who willing to equall the bloud of those Islanders unto the Romane stocke and generositie , did affirme and say that concerning Brutus , which Livie and Salust ( being both deceived ) did report of Aeneas .

Wee doe finde in ancient Records and Stories of this Island , that since the first possessions which the Brittaines had heere , it was over-runne , and * * The Brittains five times conquered . conquered five severall times . * * First , by the Romans . The Romanes were the first that did attempt upon it , under the conduct of Julius Caesar , who did onely discover it , and frighted the Inhabitants with the name of the Romanes , but was not able so farre to prevaile upon it , as any way to possesse it : yet his Successours afterwards did by little and little , so gaine on the Countrey , that they had almost all of it , which is now called England ; and did make a great Ditch or Trench from the East to the West Sea , betweene their Dominion here , and Scotland . Divers of the Emperours were here in person , as Alexander Severus , who is reputed to be buried at Yorke . Here also was Constantius Father unto Constantine the Great ; who from hence married Helena a woman of this Land , who was afterwards Mother to the renowned Constantine . But when the Romanes had their Empire much weakned , partly by their owne discords , and partly by that decay which the irruptions of the Gothes and Vandales , and such like invaders did bring upon them , they were forced to retire their Legions from thence , and so leaving the Countrey naked ; the Scots , and certaine people called the Tictes , did breake in , who most miserably ' wasted and spoyled the Countrey . Then were the Inhabitants ( as some of our Authours write ) put to that choice , that either they must stand it out and be slaine , or give ground , till they came to the Sea , and so be drowned .

Of these * * Secondly , the P●cts , who used to print or p●un●e their 〈◊〉 Pictes , who were the second over-runners of this Iland , some doe write , that they did use to cut and pounse their flesh , and lay on colours , which did make them the more terrible to be seene , with the cuts of their flesh . But certaine it is , that they had their name for painting themselves , which was a common thing in Brittaine in Caesars time , as he reporteth in his Commentaries , the men colouring their faces with Glastone , or Ode , that they might seeme the more dreadfull , when they were to joyne battaile .

To meete with the cruelty and oppression of these Barbars , the * * Thirdly , the Saxon. Saxons were in the third place by some of the Land called in , who finding the sweetnesse of the soyle , and commodiousnesse of the Countrey every way , did repaire hither by great troupes , and so seated themselves here , that there were at once of them seven severall Kingdomes and Kings within the compasse of England .

These Saxons did beare themselves with much more temperance and placability towards those few of the Countrey that remayned , than the Picts had done : but yet growing to contention , one of their Kings with another , partly about the bounds of their territories , and partly about other quarrels , they had many great battels each with other .

In the time of these , * * Their Religion and devotion . Religion and Devotion was much embraced , and divers Monasteries , and rich Religious houses were founded by them , partly for penance which they would doe , and partly otherwise ; because they thought it to be meritorious : in so much that King Edgar alone , is recorded to have built above foure severall Monasteries . And some other of their Kings , were in their ignorance so devoted , that they gave over their Crownes , and in superstition did goe to Rome , there to leade the lives of private men .

These seven Kingdomes in the end , did grow all into one ; and then the fourth and most grievous scourge and conquest of this kingdome came in , the * * Fourthly , the Danes . Danes , who Lording here divers yeares , were at last expelled ; and then William Duke of Normandy , pretending that hee had right thereunto , by the promise of adoption , or some other conveyance from Herald , did with his Normans passe over into this Land , and obtained a great victory in Sussex , at a place which he caused in remembrance therof to be called Battell , and built an Abby there , by the name of Battell Abby . Hee tooke on him to winne the whole by Conquest , and did beare himselfe indeed like a Conquerour : For hee seised all into his hands , gave out Barons , Lordships , and Mannours from himselfe ; reversed the former Lawes and Customes , and instituted here the manners and orders of his owne Countrey ; which have proceeded on , and beene by little and little bettered ; so that the honourable government is established , which wee now see at this day .

It is supposed , that the Faith of * * The religion ve y ancient which they n●w professe . Christ was first brought into this Land in the dayes of the Apostles , by Ioseph of Arimathaea , Simon Zelotes , and some other of that time : but without doubt not long after it was found here ; which appeareth by the Testimony of Tertullian , who lived within lesse then two hundred yeares after Christ : And there are Records to shew , that in the dayes of Eleutherius , one of the ancient Bishops of Rome , * * K. Lucius he first , that here received Baptisme and the Gospel . King Lucius received here both Baptisme and the Gospel : in so much that it is fabulous vanity to say , that Augustine the Monk was the first that here planted the Christian Faith : For hee lived six hundred yeares after Christ , in the time of Gregory the Great , Bishop of Rome : before which time , Gildas is ( upon great reason ) thought to have lived here : of whom there is no doubt , but that hee was a learned Christian : Yea , and that may bee perceived by that which Beda hath in his Ecclesiasticall Story concerning the comming in of Augustine the Monke , that the Christian Religion had beene planted here before , but that the puritie of it in many places was much decayed , and also that many people in the Iland were yet Infidels : For the conversion of whom , as also for the reforming of the other , Austine was sent hither , where hee behaved himselfe so proudly , that the best of the Christians which were here did mislike him . In him was erected the Arch-bishopricke of Canterbury , which amongst old Writers is still termed Dorebernia , the Archbishops doe reckon their succession by number , from this Augustine .

* * Note . The reason wherefore Gregory the great is reported to have such care for the conversion of the Ethnicks in Brittaine , was because certaine young Boyes were brought him out of this Countrey ; which being very goodly of countenance ( as our Countrey Children are therein inferiour to no Nation in the World ) hee asked them what Countrey-men they were ; and it was replyed , that they were Angli , he said they were not unfitly so called , for they were Angli , tanquam Ange●i , Nam vultum habent Angelorum . And demanding further , of what Province they were in this Iland ; it was returned that they were called Deires , which caused him againe to repeate that word , and to say , that it was great pitty , but that by being taught the Gospell , they should be saved de ira Dei .

England hath since the time of the Conquest , growne more and more in riches , insomuch that now more then 300 , yeares since , No countrey like England . in the time of King Henry the third , it was an ordinary speech , that for wealth , this Countrey was Puteus inexhaustus , a Well that could not be drawne dry . Which conceit the King himselfe , as Mathew Paris writeth , did often suggest unto the Pope ; who thereupon tooke advantage , abusing the simplicity of the King , to sucke out inestimable summes of money , to the intolerable grievance of both the Clergie and Temporality . And among other things , to bring about his purpose , the Pope did perswade the King , that he would invest his young Sonne in the Kingdome of Apulia ; which did containe a great part of all Naples ; and for that purpose had from thence many thousands , besides infinite summes which the King was forced to pay for interest to the Popes Italian Vsurers .

Since that time it hath pleased God more and more to blesse this Land , but never more plentifully than in the dayes of our late , and now raigning Soveraigne , whose raigne continuing long in peace , hath peopled the Land with abundance of inhabitants , * * The Riches of the Countrey . hath stored it with Shipping , Armour , and Munition , hath fortified it many wayes , hath increased the trafficke with the Turke and Muscovite , and many parts of the earth farre distant from us , hath much bettered it with building , and enriched it with Gold and Silver , that it is now ( by wise men ) supposed , that there is more Plate within the Kingdome , then there was Silver when her Majesty came to the Crown . Some Writers of former times , yea , and those of our owne Country too , have reported , that in England have been Mynes of Gold , or at the least some Gold taken out of other Mynes : which report hath in it no credit , in as much as the Countrey standeth too cold , neither hath it sufficient force of the Sunne , to concoct and digest that Mettall . But truth it is that our Chronicles doe witnesse , that some Silver hath beene taken up in the Southerne parts , as in the Tinne-Mynes of Devonshire and Cornewall , and such is sometimes found now , but the vertue thereof is so thinne , that by that time it is tryed and perfectly fined , it doth hardly quit the cost : notwithstanding ' Lead , Iron , and such baser mettals , be here in good plenty .

The same reason which hindreth gold ore from being in these parts , that is to say , the cold of the climate , doth also hinder that there is no wine , whose Grapes grow here . For although wee have Grapes , which in the hotter and warme Summers doe prove good , but yet many times are nipped with the frost before they be ripe , yet notwithstanding they never come to that concocted maturity as to make sweet and pleasant wine ; yet some have laboured to bring this about , therefore have planted vineyards to their great cost and trouble , helping and ayding the soyle by the uttermost diligence they could ; but in the end it hath proved to very little purpose .

The most rich commodity which our Land hath naturally growing , is * * The rich commodity of Wooll . Wooll , for the which it is renowned over a great part of the Earth . For our Clothes are sent into Turkie , Venice , Italy , Barbary , yea , as far as China of late , besides Muscovy , Denmark , and other Northern Nations ; for the which we have exchange of much other Merchandize necessary for us here ; besides that , the use of this wooll doth in severall labours set many thousands of our people in worke at home , which might otherwise be idle .

* * Bridges . Amongst the Commendations of England , as appeareth in the place before named , is the store of good Bridges : whereof the most famous are London Bridge , and that at Rochester . In divers places here , there bee also Rivers of good Name , but the greatest glory doth rest in three : * * Rivers . the Thames , called in Latine of Tame and Isis , Tamesis : Severne , called Sabrina : and Trent , which is commonly reputed to have his name of trente the French word , signifying thirty , which some have expounded to be so given , because thirty severall Rivers doe run into the same : And some other doe take it to bee so called because there bee thirty severall sorts of Fishes in that water to bee found ; the names whereof doe appeare in certain old Verses recited by Master Camden , in his Booke of the Description of England .

One of the honourable commendations which are reputed to bee in this Realme , is the * * Fair and large Churches . fairenesse of our greater and larger Churches , which as it doth yet appeare in those which wee call Cathedrall Churches , many of them being of very goodly and sumptuous buildings ; so in times past it was more to be seene when the Abbeyes , and those which were called Religious Houses , did flourish ; whereof there were a very great number in this Kingdome , which did eate up much of the wealth of the Land ; but especially those which lived there , giving themselves to much filthinesse , and divers sorts of uncleannesse , did so draw downe the vengeance of God upon those places , that they were not only dissolved , but almost utterly defaced by King Henry the eight . 1. Archbishopricks , and 24. other Bishopricks . There are here two Archbishoprickes , and twenty foure other Bishoprickes within England and Wales .

It was a tradition among old Writers , that Britaine did breed no Wolves in it , neither would they live here : but the report was fabulous , in as much as our Chronicles do write , that there were here such store of them , that the Kings were enforced to lay it as an imposition upon the Kings of Wales , who were not able to pay much money for tribute , that they should bring in yearely certaine hundreds of Wolves ; by which meanes they were at the length quite rid from Wolves .

* The Countrey of Wales had in times past a King of it selfe , yea , Of Wales . and sometimes two , the one of North Wales , and the other of South-wales ; betweene which people at this day , there is no great good affection : But the Kings of England did by little and little so gaine upon them , that they subdued the whole Countrey unto themselves ; and in the end King Henry the eight , intending thereby to benefit this Realme and them , did divide the Countrey into Shires , appointed there his Iudices itinerantes , or Iudges of the circuite to ride , and by Act of Parliament , made them capable of any preferment in England , as well as other Subjects . When the first news was brought to Rome that Iulius Caesar had attempted upon Britaine , Tully in the elegance of his wit ( as appeareth in one of his Epistles ) did make a flowt at it ; saying that there was no gaine to bee gotten by it . For gold here was none , nor any other commodity to bee had , unlesse it were by slaves , whom he thought that his friend to whom he wrote , would not looke to be brought up in learning or Musicke . Note . But if Tully were alive at this day , hee would say , that the case is much altered , in as much as in our Nation , is sweetnesse of behaviour , abundance of Learning , Musicke , and all the liberall Artes , goodly Buildings , sumptuous Apparell , rich Fare , and whatsoever else may bee truely boasted to bee in any Countrey neere adjoyning .

* * Of Scotland . The Northerne part of Brittaine is Scotland , which is a Kingdome of it selfe , and hath beene so from very ancient time , without any such Conquest , or mayne transmutation of State , as hath beene in other Countries . It is compassed about with the Sea on all sides saving where it joyneth upon England ; and it is generally divided into two parts , the one whereof is called the Hye-land , and the other the Low-land .

The Low-land is the most ' civill part of the Realme , wherin religion is more orderly established , and yeeldeth reasonable subjection unto the King : but the other part called the Hye-land , which lyeth further to the North , or else bendeth towards Ireland , is more rude and savage : and whether the King hath not so good accesse , by reason of Rockes and Mountaynes , as to bring the Noblemen which inhabite there , to such due Conformity of Religion , or otherwise , as hee would .

This Countrey generally is more * * Scotland very poo●e in former times . poore than England , or the most part of the Kingdomes of Europe : but yet of late yeares , the wealth thereof is much increased by reason of their great trafficke to all the parts of Christendome : yea , unto Spaine it selfe , which hath of late yeares beene denied to the English and some other Nations , and yet unto this day they have not any Shippes , but for Merchandize : neither hath the King in his whole Dominion , any vessell called A man of Warre . Some that have travelled into the Northerne parts of Scotland , doe report , that in the Solstitium aestivale , they have scant any night , and that which is , is not above two houres , being rather a dimnesse than a darknesse . The language of the Countrey is in the Lowland , a kind of barbarous English . But towards Ireland side , they speake Irish : * * Thereason why it is said that in Brittain are soure languages . which is the true reason whereof it is reported , that in Brittaine , there are foure Languages spoken , that is Irish in part of Scotland , English for the greatest part , Welsh in Wales , and Cornish in Cornwall .

In the Confines between the two Kingdomes of England and Scotland , which are commonly called the * * Borderers great Robb●s and Stealers . Borders , there lie divers Outlawes and unruly people , which as being subject to neither Prince by their good wils , but so farre as they list , do exercise great robberies , and stealing of Cattell from them that dwell thereabout : and yet the Princes of both Realmes , for the better preservation of Peace and Iustice , doe appoint certaine Warders on each side , who have power , euen by Martiall Law to represse all enormities .

The Queene of England had on her side three : whereof one is called the * * Lord Warden of the Marches . Lord Warden of the East Marches , the other of the West Marches , the third , the Warden of the middle Marches , who with all their power cannot so order things , but that by reason of the out-rages thereabouts committed , the borders are much unpeopled ; whiles such as desire to be civill , do not like to live in so dangerous a place .

It hath beene wondred at by many that are wise , how it could bee that whereas so many Countries , having in them divers Kingdomes and Regiments , did all in the end come to the Dominion of one ( as appeareth at this day in Spaine , where were wont to bee divers Kings , and so in times past in England , where the seven Kingdomes of the Saxons did grow all into one ) yet that England and Scotland , Note . being continuate within one Iland , could never till now bee reduced to one Monarchy ; whereof in reason the French may bee thought to have beene the greatest hinderance . For they having felt so much smart by the Armes of England alone , in so much that sometime all that whole Countrey almost hath beene over-runne and possessed by the English , have thought that it would bee impossible that they should resist the force of them , if both their Kingdomes were united and joyned into one .

The Custome therefore of the Kings of France in former times was , that by their Gold they did binde unto them the Kings and Nobility of Scotland , and by that meanes , the Kings of England were no sooner attempting any thing upon France , but the Scots by and by would invade England : Whereupon the * * A Proverbe . Proverbe amongst our people grew , That hee who will France winne , must with Scotland first begin .

* * The policie of the French . And these Frenchmen continuing their policie , did with infinite rewards breake off the Marriage which was intended and agreed upon betweene King Edward the sixt , and Mary the late unfortunate Queene of Scotland , drawing her rather to bee married with the Dolphine of France , who was Sonne to King Henry the second , and afterward himselfe raigned by the name of King Francis the second : But this was so ill taken by the English , that they sought revenge upon Scotland , and gave them a great overthrow in that battell which was called * * Musselborough field . Musselborough-field .

The people of this Countrey were in times past so * * The barbarousnesse of these Scots in former times . barbarous , that they did not refuse to eate mans flesh : which as Saint Hierome doth witnesse of them , hee himselfe saw some of them to doe in France , and the fame thereof went so farre , that Chrysostome in one place doth allude to such a matter .

There bee many little Ilands adjoyning unto the great Iland Britaine ; as at the very North point of Scotland the * * The Orcades , the people barbarous . Orcades , which are in number above thirty . The chiefe whereof is named Orkney : whereof the people are barbarous .

On the West-side of Scotland towards Ireland , lye the Ilands called Hebrides , in number forty foure , where inhabite the people ordinarily called the * * The Red-shankes . Red-shankes . Not farre from thence , is the I le Mona , commonly called the * * The I le of Man . I le of Man , the peculiar jurisdiction of the Earles of Darby , with homage notwithstanding reserved to the Crowne of England .

On the North part of Wales , is the Iland of * * The I le of Anglesey . Anglesey , which is reputed a distinct Shire .

Towards France side on the South part of England is the I le of * * The I le of Wight . Wight , in Latine called Vectis : which is a good hold in the narrow Seas against the French More neere France are the Iles of * * The Iles of Gernesey and Iernesey . Gernesey and Iernesey , where they speake French , and are under the Crowne of England . There are also many other , but of small account . As the Iles of Teanet , and Sheppy on the side of Kent , the Sorlings or Sully at the end of Cornewall , in number as it is said 145. Caldey , Lunday , and the Flatholnes , with * * Divers other Ilands . others in the mouth of Severne , Holy-farne , Cocket Ilands on the side of Northumberland . And thus much of Great Britaine , and the Ilands thereunto adjoyning .

Of the Ilands in the Mediterranean Sea .

THere be many Ilands in the Mediterranean , renowned in all the old Writers● but the chiefe of them onely shall bee touched . From the Pillars of Hercules going Eastward , are two Ilands not far from Spaine , which in times past were called * * Iusulae Baleares . Insulae Baleares , for that the people of them did use ( both for their delight and Armour ) Slings , which they continually ( almost ) carried about with them : and whereunto , as Pliny writeth , they did traine up their Children from their youngest yeares , not giving them any meat , till they had from some post or beame cast it downe with a Sling . Of these were those Fonditors , or Sling-casters , which the Carthaginians and Spaniards did use in their Warres against the Romanes . The lesser of these , which lyeth most West , was called in old time Minorica : The bigger , which lyeth more East , was called Majorica , and now Minorica and Majorica , they are both under the Dominion of the King of Spaine .

More Eastward in the Sea , called Mare Inferum , or Tyrrhenum , lyeth the Island of * * The Iland of Corsica . Corsica , over against Genua : and direct Southward from thence lyeth the great * * The Iland of Sardinia . Island Sardinia . For the quiet possession of which two , the warres were often revived betweene the old Carthaginians and the Romanes ; for these two Islands lye in the middle very fitly .

The Iland of Corsica is subject to the State of Genua , whither the Genoes doe transport things out of the Mayne , and are ruled by their Governours , as the Venetians doe Candie .

This Iland is but barren , either in respect of some other that lye neere unto it , or of the Countrey of Italy ; but yet yeeldeth profit , ease , and honour unto the States of Genua , which have little land beside it .

The Island of Sardinia also is no way so fruitfull as Sicily , but it is under the Government of the King of Spain , and was the same which was promised to Anthony the King of Navarre , Note . Father to Henry the Fourth King of France , in recompence of Pamplona , and the rest of the Kingdome of Navarre then , and now detained from him and his heires , by the Spaniard . But this was the device onely of the Cardinall of Lorraine , who intending to draw him to Papistry , and to order his politicke purposes , did make shew of this , which was no way meant by the Spaniard .

Further to the East , at the very point of the South part of Jtaly , lyeth the great * * The Iland of Sicilia . Iland Sicilia , which some have supposed to have beene heretofore a part of the Continent : but by an Earth-quake and inundation of water to have beene rent off , and so made an Iland . The figure of this Countrey is Triquetra , triangled or three square .

Iustin in his fourth Booke , doth seeme to suspect that Sicily was in times past fastned unto Italy . But Seneca , in Consolatione ad Martian . Cap. 97. doth say plainly , that it was sometimes a peece of the Continent .

There was also a great contention for this Countrey , betweene the Carthaginians and the Romanes : but the Romanes obtained it , and had from thence exceeding store of Corne yearely : whereupon Sicily was called Horreum Pop. Rom. Here stood the goodly * * The Citie Syracusa . Note . City called Syracusa , which was destroyed and sacked by Marcellus the Romane . When ( as Livie writeth of him ) hee being resolved to set on fire that Citie , which was then one of the goodliest places of the World , could not chuse but break forth into teares , to see how vaine and transitory the glory of worldly things is here .

At that time lived * * Archimedes the famous Engine-maker . Archimedes , who was a most admirable ingenious Engine-maker for all kinde of Fortifications : of whom it is said , that by burning Glasses which hee made , he did set on fire divers ships which the Romanes had lying in the Haven .

When the Citie was taken , hee was making plots , and drawing figures on the ground , for to prevent the assaults of the Romanes , and being unknowne , he was slaine by some of the Souldiers , which did breake in upon him . Some thinke that it was hee , and not Architas which made the Dove , of which it is written that it was so equally poysed , that being throwne up into the ayre , it would hover or flutter there , and in a good space not fall downe .

This was in times past * * Sicily once a kingdome . 2 Famous Tyrants in it . a Kingdome , where the two Tyrants , the elder and the younger Dionysius did raigne , where Gelo also , that great friend to the Romanes did remaine .

It was afterward made a Province , and governed by the Praetor or Deputy of the Romanes : whereof Verres was one , who was so inveighed against by Tully .

It grew afterward to be a Kingdome againe , in so much that Tancredus was King of Sicily , which entertained our Richard the first , when with Philip , the King of France , he went to the Conquest of the Holy Land . Here was likewise * * The tyrant Phalaris . The tyrannies of Sicily were very famous . Phalaris the Tyrant so famous , King of Agrigentum .

The tyrannies which were used in Sicilie , were in times past so famous , that they grew into a Proverbe ; as , Invidia Siculs non invenere Tyranni , tormentum majus ; but they who were the causes of all , did oftentimes speed very ill themselves , as appeareth by the elder Dionysius , who being driven out of his Dominion , did flee into Italy , and was glad there to teach Children , that so hee might supply his necessity . His sonne grew more tyrannous than the father , and stood so farre in feare of his owne people , that many times hee caused himselfe to bee shut up in a Tower , and his Guard to keepe the doore , that no body might come at him : hee durst not trust his Barbour to shave or clip him , * * Note , that cruelty is alwayes attended with feare . for feare of cutting of his throat : but that which was done , hee caused his Daughter to doe , who with the thinne inner skinne of Walnuts being set on fire , is said to have taken off the haire of his face .

This was hee , whose felicity when Damocles a Flatterer did seeme marveilously to admire , Damocles the flatterer . hee caused him to bee set one day at Dinner in his Royall Seate , with dainty Fare before him , Plate , rich Hangings , Musique , and all other matters of delight ; but withall a naked Sword , which was onely tyed with a single haire of a Horses Mane , to be hanged directly over him ; the feare whereof did so feare the Flatterer , lest it should fall upon him , that hee continually looked upwards and about him , and tooke no joy of that which was before him : whereby Dionysius did evidently teach him , that the State of some Princes , howsoever it seeme glorious , yet it doth bring little contentment unto themselves , by reason of the continuall dangers which hang over them .

It is reported of this man , that when all the people of his Countrey did for his cruelty continually curse him , there was one Woman which daily did goe to the Churches , and prayed the Gods to lengthen his life : wherewithall when Dionysius was acquainted , marvelling himselfe at the reason of it , he sent for her , and asked what good thing hee had done unto her , that shee was so carefull evermore to pray for him ? Note ●ow the poore woman prayed soy this Tyrant . But the woman answered , that it was not for love , but for feare that shee begged these things of the Gods : For ( said shee ) I am an old woman , I doe remember when your Grandfather lived , who being very hard unto his people , was much maligned by them , and they prayed that they might be rid of him : which falling out , afterward your Father came in place , and hee was worse than the former : which when the Subjects could not endure , they prayed also that hee might die , hoping that the next would bee better : Then came your selfe in place , who have much exceeded the cruelty of your father : And whereas others wish that you were gone also , trusting for amendment in the next , I that have lived so long , & see that things grow worse and worse , doe pray that you may continue , because that if we should have one that should succeed you , if he walke in the steps of his Predecessors , he must needs bee as bad as the Divell himselfe ; for none else in tyranny can goe beyond you .

* * A good note for all inventers of ●ortures and cruelty , and likewise for time flatterers . Phalaris of Agrigentum , was hee who proposed rewards unto him who invented new torments , which caused Perillus to make a Bull of Brasse , into the which if offenders should bee put , and fire should bee set under , then it would make them roare like a Bull : But when upon the terrour thereof none would so offend ( as to deserve that torment ) Phalaris tooke Perillus , the Author thereof , and to try the experience , put him into it , whereby Perillus lost his life .

This Countrey is now also under the King of Spaine , who among other titles , was wont to call himselfe King of both Sicilies , reckoning this Iland for one , and that part of Italy for another , which is now called Calabria , and was in the Romane Histories named Magna Graecia .

There is nothing more renowned in all Cicilia , either with new or old Writers , than the * * The Mountaine Aetna . Mountaine Aetna , which being on the out side oft covered with snow , yet by a sulphurous or brimstony matter , doth continually burne within : yea , so that whereas it was supposed in the ages last before us , that the matter being consumed , the sire had ceased ; twice in our age it hath broke forth againe , to the incredible losse of all the Countrey adjoyning , the ashes thereof destroying vines and fruits , which were within the compasse of many miles about .

Agatheas in his History doth tel , that in his owne time there was an incredible deale of ashes which did fall about Constantinople , and the places neere adjoyning , in so much that the ground was covered with the same ; which he reputeth to have been brought from the Hill in Sicily . But Bodin , in his Method . Hist . doth reprove this as a fable , which can have no shew of truth , by reason of the great distance of the place : notwithstanding it is certaine , that sometimes when it doth strongly breake out , the Fields and Vineyards , and all the fruits within the compasse of some miles are much hurt therewithall .

* * The reason of the fire in the mountaine of Aetna . The reason of this Fire was laid downe by Iustine in his fourth Booke ; and is since approved both by Historians and Philosophers : which is , that within the ground , there is great store of Sulphure and brimstony matter , which having once fire in it , is apt to keepe it . And whereas all the whole Countrey is full of chinks and chaps , and hollownesse within the ground , the matter which entreth there , doth minister substance to the continuance of that flame : as wee see that water cast on coales in the Smiths Forge doth make them burne more fervently : and then into the Chinkes and Chaps , the Winde doth also enter , which by blowing and whifling , doth both cause the fire never to extinguish , and sometimes ( according unto the strength of the blast ) doth make flames breake out , either more or lesse .

There are in the Hill Aetna , two principall places which are like unto two Furnaces , with Tunnels on the top of them , where divers times , ( but especially in the Evening and Night ) the flame doth appeare , mounting upwards ; and it is so strong , that oftentimes it brings up with it burnt and scorching stones , and peeces of hard substances , which seemes to bee rent out of some Rocke , to the great terrour and danger of any that doe come neere .

This is that place whither Empedocles threw himselfe , Note . that hee might be reported a God .

This is it whereof Virgil doth make his Tract called Aetna : which the Poets did report to bee the Shop of Vulcan , where Cyclopes did frame the Thunderbolts for Iupiter .

And to conclude , that is it , which some of our grosse Papists have not feared to imagine to be the place of Purgatory . As they have beene so foolish to thinke , that there is also another place called the Mount Veda in Jseland , where soules have another Purgatory to bee punished in ; but there by colde , which Surius in his Commentaries is so absurdly grosse as to report and allow .

* * The Papists Purgatory is the fiery Aetna . The Papists have show for their Purgatory in Aetna , out of that Book which is commonly called by the name of the Dialogues of Gregory the Great : For in that Booke there are divers things to that purpose . But our best Writers of late , have discovered that that same Treatise is a counterfeit , being made by a later Pope Gregory , and not by the first of that name , ordinarily called Gregorius Magnus : who although hee have in his Workes divers things tending to Superstition , yet hee was never so absurde as to write things so unprobable , foolish , and grounded upon so bare reports as these were .

Such another Hill as the Mountaine of Aetna is , was in time past Vesuvius , a Hill in Campania , which is part of Italy ; but this never had the like continuance as that of Aetna , although in the time of Pliny , the fire did breake forth there , and so strongly , as that the elder Pliny , who spent all his time in discovering ? the secrets of Nature , pressing neere to behold it , was stifeled with the flame , smoke , or ashes , so that hee * * The d●ath of Pliny the elder . died in the place , as is most excellently described in the Booke of his Epistles by his Nephew the younger Plinie .

Not farre from Sicily , on the South lyeth the little Ile called in old time Melita : whence those Dogs come which are so much desired under the names of Canes Melitenses .

* * Note . This is the place where Saint Paul was cast up after his shipwrack in his journey to Rome , where the Viper hanged on his hand , and did not hurt him .

This Countrey is now called * * Malta the onely place for repelling the Turks . Malta , & is one of the places most renowned in the world for repelling of the Turkes : When Soliman the Emperour of them did send against it a most mighty Army , it was then defended by them , who are called the Knights of Malta , which by Sea doe great spoyle to the Gallies of the Turke that passe that way .

There were in times past divers Orders of Knights , and men that had vowed themselves to adventure their lives and whole state , for the maintenance of Christs Religion , and some places of the Earth , against the Infidels and Saracens .

The most ancient of all those , were called the * * The society of the Knights Templers . Templers , who were a great corporation or societie , consisting of divers Gentlemen , younger brothers for the most part , out of all the Realmes of Christendome : Their chiefe charge was to defend the Citie of Ierusalem , and the Reliques or remainder of the Temple there , and Sepulcher of Christ : for the preservation of which places , together with the rest of the Holy Land , they had given unto them , and purchased for their money , very rich and ample possessions in England , France , Spaine , Jtaly , and other places of Europe , in so much that in the dayes of Mathew Paris , hee reporteth that they had under them many thousands of Mannours .

They had also in every kingdom ( where their Order was permitted ) a great and ample house , where some chiefe of their company did lye , who received the Rents within that Kingdome , and caused the money to bee transported into the Holy Land , and other Ordinances to be made and executed belonging unto their Order : of which houses , the Temple that is now in London was a chiefe one ; which had in f rmer times belonged to the Iews , but was afterwards translated to that use , when the Holy Land was quite taken by Saladine , and could never be recovered into the hands of the Christians since the Societie of these Templers ceased : * * The Pope and the King of France , conspiring their ruine . the Pope and the King of France conspiring their ruine , and their Lands were dispersed into divers mens hands .

In the same time when the Templers were in their strength , there was another sort called the * * Hospitallers . Hospitallers , whose condition and employment was very like unto the other , both of them fighting for the preservation of Palest na .

Wee reade that sometimes these two companies had great jarres betweene themselves , whereby grew much hinderance to the Warres against the Infidels .

All these were accounted as Orders of Religion , and therefore it was forbidden them at any time to marry , without dispensation from the Pope ; because not being entangled to Wife and Children , they might be more resolute to adventure their lives .

After them grew up the order of the * * The Knights of Rhodes . Knights of Rhodes , who since they could not live in the Holy Land , yet would abide as neere unto it as possible they might ; and therefore partly to preserve Pilgrimes which should goe to visit the Sepulchre of Christ , and partly to infest the Turkes and Saracens : but especially to keepe the Enemies of Christ's Faith from encroaching further upon Christendome : which most earnestly they did , and doe desire : they placed themselves in the Ilands of Rhodes , where daily doing great scath unto the Turke , Solyman the great Warriour could not endure them , but with a mighty Army so over-laid them , that hee wonne the Island from them .

The Knights of Malta . After the losse of Rhodes , the Island of Malta was given unto these Knights by Charles the Fift Emperour ; whereupon they are now called the Knights of Malta ; for the great Master after hee came from Rhodes , went into Candy , and from thence into Sicily , and so into Jtaly , from thence hee made a Voyage into England , and then into France , and lastly into Savoy , from whence hee departed with the Religion into this Island , and there they continue and behave themselves as in the former Iland ; and offering no violence unto Christians , they much hinder the courses of the Turks from Graecia and Asia , and of the other Saracens from Fez and Morocco . They are very valiant men , fit to doe great service , either by Land or Sea , as appeared when Solyman did thinke to have surprised them and their Iland : the description of which warre is diligently laid downe by Caelius secundus Curio , in a Treatise dedicated to Elizabeth Queene of England .

There hath beene divers other Orders of Knights , yea , and some of them reputed to bee a kinde of Religion in Portugall , France , England , Burgundy , and some other places of Christendome ; but because their service hath not beene employed purposely , as these which are before mentioned , wee doe not touch them in this place .

Neere unto Graecia and Peloponnesus , on the West side towards Italy , is the J le of Corcyra , now termed * * The Iles Corfu . Corfu ; and not farre South from that , is * * Cephalenia . Cephalenia ; and from thence South is * * Zon. Zon , called by Virgill , Nemorosa Zacynthus ; al● which Ilands are at this day under the Venetians .

The greatest * * The commodities of the countrey . commodity which that Countrey doth yeeld , are Currans , which are gathered of a kinde of small Grapes ; and for the making whereof , they commonly one time every summer , for the space of three weekes , haue a continuall drought , day and night , in which time , the Currans are laid abroad in the open ayre , and may not be taken in ; insomuch , that if the season doe continue hot and dry , their Merchandize is very good ; but if there fall any raine untill the time be expired of their full drying , the Currans are not good , but doe mould and change their colour to be somewhat white , like meale . The state of Venice , under whom this Iland is , doth make a great commodity of the impost , or taxation , which is laid upon this Merchandize , calling the Tribute which is paid for them , the * * The Impost laid on this Iland , called the Revenue of S. Marke . Revenue of S. Marke : for unto that Saint is the Citie of Venice dedicated , and they hold him fo● their Patron .

In this Iland ( besides the Merchants who repaire thither ) are divers Italians , who be there in Garison for the Venetians , in one speciall Castle , which commandeth the whole Iland .

There are also divers Fryers 〈◊〉 that Nation , who performe unto their Countrey-men such exercises of Religion as are convenient .

They will not suffer any of our Merchants to have Christian burial among them , unlesse at his death he be confessed after the Romish fashion : whereupon some have been forced to convey over some 〈◊〉 their dead bodies into Morea ( which is not farre distant ) to be buried there among the Greekes and after their fashion .

The naturall Inhabitants 〈◊〉 * * Zant , the Inhabitants Greekes . Zant , and Greekes , both by Language and Religion , and observ● all fashions of the Greekish Church in whose words ( being now muc● corrupted and depraved ) there may yet be found some tokens and remainders of the old , pure , and uncorrupted Greeke .

There are in this Countrey great store of Swine kept , whereof the Inhabitants doe feed , and carry them into Morea ; but the Turkes there ( by their Mahumetane profession ) will taste no Swines flesh .

In Zacynthus our English Merchants have an House of abode for their traffick . South-east from Morea lieth the great Iland * * Creta . Creta , where Minos sometimes did raign , so famous for his severity .

This Countrey was then called Hecatompolis , as having in it an hundred Townes and Cities .

Here stood the * * The Labyrinth of Dedalus . Labyrinth , which was the worke of Dedalus , who conveighed the house so by the manifold turnings , infinitenesse of Pillars and Doores , that it was impossible to finde the way ; yet Theseus ( by the helpe of Ariadne the Daughter of King Minos ) taking a bottome of threed , and tying the one end at the first doore , did enter and slay the Minotaur , which was kept there , and afterwards returned safe out againe .

* * The most noted lyers . The ancient Inhabitants of this Countrey , were such noted lyers , that beside the Proverbes which were made of them , as Cretense mendacium , & Cretisandum est cum Cretensibus , the Apostle Paul in his Epistle to Titus , who was left there by him as Bishop of that Iland , doth cite a verse out of the Heathen Poet Epimenides , that the Cretians are ever lyers , evill beasts , and slow bellies .

* * The Iland Candie . This Iland is in our dayes , called Candy , being the place from whence our Sugar of Candy is brought . It is under the Venetians , and reputed a part of their Seigniory : Although the Turke , when they had taken Cyprus , did thinke also to have surprised it : but that it pleased GOD by the meanes of Don Iohn of Austria , in the behalfe of his brother the King of Spaine , and the Venetians , to give the Turke that great overthrow at Sea , in the fight neere unto Lepanto . Yet since that time ( no doubt ) the Turkes have a greedy eye upon the Island of Candy .

Betweene Creta and Peloponnesus , lyeth * * Cithera where was the fine Temple of Venus . Cithera . There was the fine Temple of Venus , who thereof by the Poets , is called Citheraea . The Islands are many , which lie in the Sea called Mare Aegeum , from the bottome of Greece , unto the top of the Hellespont , as all the Cyclads , Euboia , and the great Island Samos , and Chios ; ●o Scyros where Achilles was borne , and was King of that Countrey : There is also Lesbos and * * Divers small Ilands . Cemnos , Mytelene , and Ithaca where Vlysses was King , and Androse , whither Themistocles was sent by the Athenians for Tribute , as Plutarch layeth downe the History : * * Note . Themistocles did tell them that hee came to demand Tribute , or some great Imposition upon them , being accompanied with two Goddesses , the one was ( Eloquence ) to perswade them ; and the other ( Violence ) to enforce them . Whereunto the Andraeans made answere , that they had on their side two Goddesses as strong , whereof the one was ( Necessitie ) whereby they had it not ; and the other was ( Impossibility ) whereby they could not part with that which they never possessed . Of these places , something may bee read in the olde History of the Greekes . Divers of these did strive that Homer was borne in them ; but of certaine , many of those Kings which Homer saith came with Agamemnon to the siege of Troy , were Kings but of those small Ilands .

Eastward from thence , not farre from some part of Natolia , or Asia the lesser , is the * * The Iland of Rhodes . Iland of Rhodes , the friendship of the Inhabitants whereof was in ancient time very much defired by the Princes that had to do that way : so that Alexander first , and the Romanes afterwards , did embrace their league .

Here was that huge and mighty Image of the Sunne , which was called Colossus Rhodius .

This Countrey was long defended by those who were called the Knights of Rhodes , against the power of the Turke , and it was a great Bulwark to defend Christendome , till that in the yeare one thousand five hundred twenty and one , Solyman the Great Turke , did winne it from the Christians by force .

From thence South-ward is the I le * * The Ile Carphathus . Carphathus : but in the farthest end of the East part of the Mediterranean , is * * The I le of Cyprus . Cyprus , which about three hundred yeares since , was a Kingdome , and did afford great ayde unto the Christians that went to conquer the Holy-Land ; but it is now under the Turke . The chiefe City thereof is * * The Citie of Famogusta . Famogusta , which is an Archbishops Sea : for Christians , for their Tribute , doe yet live there . In this Countrey in old time was Venus much honored , and therfore she was called Cypria , as also Paphia , because shee had a Temple in a Citie there called * * The Citie Paphos . Paphos .

* * The Iland Tyrus . Neere unto Syria stood the Iland Tyrus : against the pride whereof , the Prophets doe much speake : this was a rich Citie for Merchandize and Navigation in old time ; and is the place from whence Dido , and the builders of Carthage did come .

The destruction of it is most famous by Alexander the Great . Of the rest of the small Ilands wee doe say nothing .

Of the Ilands in the Jndian Sea .

THe Ilands are very many that doe lie in the Seas adjoyning to the East - Indies ; but the most famous among them shall only be touched . Among old Writers , as especially appeareth by Solinus , was well knowne that which was then called Taprobana , which lieth neere the Aequinoctiall Line . It was in that time a Monarchy , where the Kings raigned not by succession , but by election : and if any of them did grow intolerable , hee was deposed and enforced to die , by withdrawing from him all things necessary . This is now called * * The Iland of Sumatra . Sumatra , and hath in it divers Kings .

Not farre from thence lie Eastward the two Ilands called * * Two Jlands , Iava major and Iava minor Java-major , * Java-minor ; which were all knowne to the old Writers , as in generall may bee noted , that all the East-part either in the Continent , or in the Ilands , have very many small Kings and Kingdomes .

From whence yet more East , lieth a great number of Iles , which are now called the * * The Ilands of Moluccoes , the great Riches which the King of Spaine receives from hence yearly Moluccoes , which are places as rich for their quantity as any in the World ; from these it is that the Spaniards have yearely so great quantity of all kindes of Spice , neither is there any place of all the East - Indies , that doth more richly furnish home their Carrects , then doe these Moluccoes .

The Ilands which are called by that name are by some of our Writers accounted to bee at least foure and twentie or five and twentie ; and some of them which are the bigger , have in them two or three Kings a peece : and some of them which are lesse , are either the severall Dominion of severall Kings , or else two or three of them doe belong to some one Prince . * * Note . When Sir Francis Drake did compasse the whole World , hee came neere unto these , but did not touch at any of them ; but Master Candish taking at large a journey , was in one or more of them , where hee found the people to bee intelligent and subtill , and the Kings of the Countrey to take upon them as great state as might be convenient for such petty Princes .

Some of these Islands the Spaniards in right of the Portugals have got into their owne possession , with the Kings of some other they have leagued ; and a third sort utterly detest them . More North-ward over against China , lyeth a Countrey consisting of a great many Islands called Iapona , of * * The Iland of Iapan . Iapan , the people whereof are much of the same nature with the men of China : this Countrey was first discovered by the Jesuites , who in a blinde zeale have travelled into the farthest parts of the World to winne men to their Religion . This Iland is thought to be very rich .

About the parts of Iapan , there are divers people , whose most ordinary habitation is at the Sea , and doe never come into the Land , but onely for their necessities , or to furnish themselves with new vessels , wherein they may abide ; but lying not farre from the Land , they have Ducks , and other Fowles swimming about them , which sometimes they take into their Boats and Ships , and in such sort doe breed them , to the maintenance of them and their Children .

Into this Iapan of late dayes have our English also sayled , as into other parts , of the East - Indies , and there erected a Factory .

The rest that be either neere unto Asia or Africa , because there is little written of them , wee passe over , Div●rs smal Iionds onely named . onely naming them , as the Philippina , Borreo , Bandara : as also on the side of Africke , the Island of Saint Laurence , called by the Inhabitants Madagascar , Sumatra , and other of lesse note : And yet we doe finde in Solinus and Plinie , but especially in Pomponius Mela , that it was knowne in old time , that there were many Ilands neere unto the East - Indies , which as it might bee first discovered by the trafficking of the Ilanders into the Continent ; so no doubt that Navie which Alexander sent out to Jndia to descry and coast thorow the Easterne Seas , did give much light thereunto , partly by that which themselves did see , and partly by those things which they heard in such places , or of such persons as they met with in their travell .

Of the Ilands in the Atlanticke Sea .

THere bee many Ilands which be westward from Africa , and from Europe : as those which are called the * * Iland of Gorgades . Gorgades , that lie in the same climate with Guinea , which are foure in number , not inhabited by men , but they are full of Goates . Peter Martyr in his first Decade , the sixt Booke , saith that the Admirall Colonus , in the yeare of Christ 1498 sailing to Hispaniola with eight Ships , came to the I le * * The Ile Madera . Madera , from whence sending directly the rest of his Ships to the East - Indies , hee in one Ship with deckes and two Carayels sayled to the Equinoctiall , betweene which and the I le Madera , in the middest way , lie thirteene Ilands of the Portugals , in old time called * * Hesperides . Hesperides , now Cabonerde , two dayes sayling distant from the inner parts of Ethi●pe : one whereof is called . * * Bonavista . Bonavista , North-ward from thence , in the same climate with the South part of Morocco , lie those which are called * * Canariae Ilands . Canariae , or the fortunate Ilands , which are seven in number : being most fruitfull and very pleasant , and therefore called by that name , Fortunatae insulae , This is famous in them , that it hath pleased all Cosmographers to make their Meridian to bee their first point where they doe beginne to reckon the computation of their Longitude , and unto them after three hundred and threescore Degrees to returne againe .

From these Ilands it is , that those strong and pleasant Sacks , which are called * * From hence the best Canary Sack●s . Canary Wines are brought ; and from thence are fetched those that they call Canary Birds . These Ilands are under the Crowne of Spaine : The heat of the Countrey is very great , and therefore fitter for concoction ; but besides that , the soyle of it selfe is accommodated thereunto , and by reason of them , both these Ilands doe bring forth a Grape , which is sweeter in taste then any other Grape , and hath that propertie with it , that the Wine which is made thereof , doth not fume into the head , like other Sacke , but doth helpe the stomacke , and exercise the force of it there . The slips of their Vines have beene brought into Spaine and some other places of Europe , but they have not sorted to the same purpose , as they doe in their native Countrey .

There doe grow also in these Iles , From hence great store of Sugar-canes ▪ good store of Sugar-canes , which yeelde plentifully that kinde of commoditie unto Spaine , either for Marmalets ( wherein they much delight ) or for other uses .

Peter Martyr in the beginning of his Decades , which hee hath written De Orbe novo , doth particularly touch the names , and some other things of these Ilands .

On the backe-side of Africa also just under the Aequinoctiall , is the * * The I le of S. Thomas . I le of Saint Thomas , inhabited by the Portugals ; which Island was taken in the latter time of Queene Elizabeth by the Dutch : it is reported that in the middest of this Island is an Hill , ( and over that a continuall Cloud , wherewith the whole Island is watered , ( such a like thing as this is reported of the * * The I le of Cloves . Isle of Cloves : ) The ayre of this Island is unwholsome , and there is hardly seene any Portugall or stranger that comes to dwell there , which lives till hee be above fortie yeares of age .

More Northward from Africke lie those Islands which are called * * The Ilands of Azores . Azores Insulae , being sixe or seven in number : of which Tercera is one of the chiefe , of whom , the rest by some are called Terceras , which are farre inferiour in fruitfulnesse unto the Canaries , These were first under the Crowne of Portugall , and one of them was the last which was kept out from the King of Spaine , by the Prior Don Antonio , who afterward called himselfe King of Portugall ; but the Spaniard at last tooke this Tercera from him , and doth possesse all these Islands , together with the rest of the Dominion , which did belong to the Portugals .

Hee who list to see the unadvised proceedings of Don Antonio , both in parting with Lisbon , Note the unadvisednesse of Don Antonio . and the rest of Portugall , as also in losing these Islands which last of all held out for him , let him read Conestagio of the uniting of Portugall to the Crown of Castile . But these Azores have in times past yeelded much Oade , which thereupon in England was called Jsland Oade ; but now they are the place where the Spaniards do commonly touch , and take in fresh water , both going and comming to and from America , finding that to passe directly without turning on either hand towards America is very hard , by reason of the strong current of the water from the Gulph of Mexico , and so forward to the East : and therefore they are enforced either to goe lower to the South , and so to water in some part of Guinea , or thereabout , or else to keepe up as high as these Ilands .

Of America , or the new World .

ALthough some doe dispute out of Plato , and the old Writers , that there was not onely a guesse , but a kind of knowledge in ancient time , that besides Europe , Asia , and Africa , there was another large country lying to the West , yet he that shall advisedly peruse the conjectures made thereupon , may see that there is nothing of sufficiencie to enforce any such knowledge , but that all Antiquity was utterly ignorant of the new found Countries towards the West . Whereunto this one argument most forcible may give credite , * * The people of America utterly void of all manner of God , or goodnesse . that at the first arriving of the Spaniards there , they found in those places , nothing shewing trafficke , or knowledge of any other Nation ; but the people naked , uncivill , some of them devourers of mens flesh , ignorant of shipping , without all kinde of learning , having no remembrance of Historie or writing among them ; never having heard of any such Religion as in other places of the World is knowne , but being utterly ignorant of Scripture , or Christ ; or Moses , or any God , neither having among them any token of Crosse , Church , Temple , or Devotion , agreeing with other Nations . The reasons which are gathered by some late Writers out of Plato , Seneca , and some other of the Ancient are rather conjecturall , The reasons conjecturall of a new found World . that it was likely that there should bee some such place , then any way demonstrative , or concluding by experience , that there was any such Countrey : and the greatest inducement which they had to perswade themselves that there was any more Land towards the West then that which was formerly knowne , was grounded upon this , that all Asia , Europe , and Africk , concerning the Longitude of the World , did containe in them but 180 Degrees : and therefore it was most probable , that in the other 180 , which filleth up the whole course of the Sunne to the number of 360 degrees , GOD would not suffer the water onely to possesse all , but would leave a place for the habitation of men , beasts , flying and creeping creatures .

I am not ignorant that some , who make too much of vaine shewes , out of the British Antiquities have given out to the World , and written something to that purpose , that Arthur sometimes King of Britaine , had both knowledge of these parts , and some Dominion in them : for they finde ( as some report ) that King Arthur had under his government many Ilands and great Countries towards the North and West : which one of some speciall note hath interpreted to signifie America , and the Northerne parts thereof , and thereupon have gone about to entitle the * * Some have entitled the Queene of England Soveraigne of these Provinces . Queene of England to bee Soveraigne of those Provinces , by right of Descent from King Arthur . But the wisedome of our State hath beene such , as to neglect that opinion , imagining it to be grounded upon fabulous foundations , as many things are which are now reported of King Arthur ; onely this doth carrie some shew with it , that now some hundred of yeares since , there was a Knight of Wales , who with shipping and some pretty Company , did goe to discover those parts , whereof as there is some record of reasonable credit amongst ▪ the Monuments of Wales , so there is this one thing which giveth pregnant shew thereunto , that in the late Navigation of some of our men to Norumbega , and some other Northern parts of America , they finde some tokens of civility and Christian Religion ; but especially they doe meet with some words of the Welch Language ; as that a bird with a white head should be called Pengwinn , and other such like : yet because we have no invincible certaintie hereof , and if any thing were done , it was only in the Northerne and worse parts : and the entercourse betwixt Wales and those parts , in the space of divers hundred yeares , was not continued , but quite silenced : wee may goe forward with that opinion , that these Westerne Jndies were no way knowne to former ages .

God therefore remembring the Prophecie of his Sonne , that the Gospell of the Kingdome should before the day of judgement , bee preached in all coasts and quarters of the World , and in his mercy intending to free the people , or at the least some few of them , from the bondage of Satan ( who did detaine them in blockish ignorance ) and from their Idolatrous service unto certaine vile spirits ( whom they call their Zemes , Their Religion . and most obsequiously did adore them ) raised up the spirit of a man worthy of perpetuall memory ( one * * Columbus the first discoverer of America . Christophorus Columbus , borne at Genua in Italy ) to set his mind to the Discovery of a new World , who finding by that compasse of the old knowne World , that there must needs be a much more mighty space ( to the which the Sunne by his daily motion did compasse about ) then that which was already known and discovered ; and conceiving that this huge quantity might as wel be land as Sea , he could never satisfie himselfe till that he might attempt to make proofe of the verity thereof .

Being therefore himselfe a private man , and of more vertue then Nobility , after his reasons and demonstrations laid downe , whereby hee might induce men that it was no vaine thing which hee went about , hee went unto many of the Princes of Christendome , and among others to Henry the seventh , King of England , desiring to bee furnished with shipping , and men fit for such a Navigation : but these men refusing him , partly because they gave no credit to his Narration ; and partly lest they should bee derided by their neighbour Princes , if by this Genoe-stranger they should be cousened ; but especially , for that they were unwilling to sustaine the charges of shipping , at last hee betooke himselfe unto the Court of Ferdinandus , and Elizabeth , King and Queene of Castile , where also at the first hee found but small entertainment , yet persisting in his purpose without wearinesse , and with great importunity , it pleased God to move the mind of Elizabeth the Queene , to deale with her husband to furnish forth two Ships , for the discovery onely , and not for conquest : whereupon * * In the yeare 149. America discovered by Columbus . Columbus in the yeare one thousand foure hundred ninetie and two , accompanied with his brother Bartholomeus Columbus , and many Spaniards sayled farre to the West , for the space of threescore dayes and more , with the great indignation and often mutinies of his company , fearing that by reason of their long distance from home , they should never returne againe ; insomuch that the Generall , after many perswasions of them to goe forward , was at length enforced to crave but three dayes , wherein if they saw not the Land , hee promised to returne ; and God did so blesse him , to the end that his voyage migh● not prove in vaine , that in that space , one of his Companie did espie fire , which was a certain● Argument that they were neere to the Land ; as it fell out indeed .

The first Land whereunto they came , was an Iland , called by the Inhabitants * * The Iland Haity Haity , but in remembrance of Spaine from whence he● came , hee termed it Hispaniola and finding it to bee a Countrey full of pleasure , * * The riobes of the Countrey . and having in it abundance of Gold and Pearle , hee proceeded further , and discovered another bigge Ile , which is called * * The Iland Cuba . Cuba , of the which being very glad , with great treasure hee returned unto Spaine , bringing joyfull newes of his happy successe .

When Columbus did adventure to restraine the time of their expectation within the compasse of three dayes , engaging himselfe to returne if in that space they saw no Land ; there bee some write , that hee limited himselfe not at all adventures ; but that bee did by his eye discerne a difference in the colour of the Clouds which did arise out of the West , from those which formerly hee had seene ; which Clouds did argue by the clearenesse of them , that they did not arise immediately out of the Sea , but that they had passed over some good space of the Land , and thereby grew clearer and clearer , not having in them any new or late risen vapours , but this is but conjecturall .

* * The pride of the Spaniard labouring to abscure the same of Columbus . The Spaniards , who are by nature a people proud , have since the death of Columbus laboured to obscure his fame , envying that an Italian or stranger should be reported to bee the first discoverer of those parts .

And therefore have in their writings since , given forth that there was a Spaniard which had first beene there , and that Columbus meeting with his Cardes and Descriptions , did but pursue his enterprize , and assume the glory to himselfe .

But this fable of theirs doth savour of the same spirit wherewithall many of them in his life time did reproach him , that it was no matter of importance to finde out these Countries , but that , if that hee had not done it , many other might and would . Which being spoken to Columbus at a solemne Dinner , hee called for an Egge , and willed all the Guest●one after another to set it up on end . Which when they could not doe , he gently bruising the one end of it , did make it flat , and so set it up , by imitation whereof each of the other did the same : whereby hee mildely did reprove their envy towards him , and shewed how easie it was to doe that which a man had seene done before .

To go forward therefore : Columbus being returned to Castile , after his welcome to the Princes , was made Great Admirall of Spaine , and with a new Fleete of more Ships was sent to search further , which hee accordingly did , and quickly found the mayne Land , not farre from the Tropick of Cancer .

Which part of the Countrey , in honour of Spaine , hee called * * Hispania nova . Hispania nova ; in respect whereof at this day , the King of Spaine doth entitle himselfe Hispaniarum Rex .

Some there bee which write , that Columbus did not discover further than the Islands ; and that hee spent the greatest part of his former labours in coasting Cuba and Hispaniola , to see whether they were Ilands , or a Continent ; & that some other in the meane time did thrust themselves forward and descryed the firme Land : Among whom * * Of whom this Countrey had its name . Americus Vespucius was the chiefe , of whose name a great part of the Countrey is called at this day America .

They found the people both of the mayne Land and Islands very many in number , naked , without Clothes or Armour ; sowing no Corne , but making their Bread of a kinde of Roote , which they call Maiz. Men most ignorant of all kind of Learning , admiring at the Christians , as if they had beene sent downe from Heaven , * * Manner of the prople . and thinking them to bee immortall , wondring at their Ships , and the Tacklings thereof ; for they had no Ships of their owne , but bigge Troughes , which they call their Canoes : being made hollow ( of the body of a Tree ) with the sharpe bones of Fishes : for Iron or such like Instruments they have none .

Although it doe appeare , that by the Warres of one of their petty Princes , or Kings , whom they call Cassickes , had against another , many thousands of the Inhabitants of those Countries were continually wasted and spoyled : yet the number of them was so great , in every part of the West Indies , that in Hispaniola alone , there were supposed to bee by computation of the Spaniards ( first arriving there ) not so few as 2000000 , which yet by the * * The cruelts of the Spaniards . cruelty of the Spaniards were so murthered , and otherwayes made away , that within fifty yeares after , as their Writers report , there were scant any thousands in that Island remayning of them .

The like is to be said of the populousnesse of other Coasts and quarters there .

The * * Their Armour . Armour which those people did weare , when they entred into the Warres was nothing but some sleight covering , either made of Wood or shels of Fishes , or of Cotton-wooll , or some such foolish matter . For they had no use at all of Iron or Steele ; but the most part of them came without any kinde of cloathing , or covering , yet armed with Bowes and Arrowes , which were made sharpe in the end with the scraping of Fish-bones , or with Fish-bones themselves put on the end like an Arrow-head ; and that oftentimes they dipped in a kinde of most venomous poyson : Some other of them had for their Weapons great Clubs , wherewith they did use to beate out the braines of those with whom they did combate .

* * Note their Bread . They had amongst them no good nor wholsome food , for even that Maiz , whereof they made their bread , had in the root thereof a most venemous kinde of liquor , which is no better than deadly poyson , but they crush out that juyce , and afterward doe prepare the roote , so that it maketh them a kinde of Bread .

* * No good Literature amongst them . There was no sort of good Literature to be found amongst them , nay they could not so much as distinguish any times , the one from the other , but by a blockish kinde of observation of the course of the Moone , according to which they made their computation ; but without any kinde of certainty , saving for some few Moneths which were lately past , but for the set calculating of ought which was done divers yeares before , they could doe nothing therein , but onely grossely ayme at it .

But that in all ages it hath appeared , that Sathan hath used ignorance as one of the chiefest meanes whereby to encrease Idolatry , and consequently to enlarge his Kingdome ; it were otherwise incredible , that any who have in them reason , and the shape of men , should bee so brutishly ignorant of all kinde of true Religion , Devotion , and Vnderstanding .

For the adoration which they doe give , was onely unto certaine foule Spirits , which they call by the name of their Zemes. In remembrance of whom , divers of them did keep in their houses certaine things made of cotten wooll , in the manner of Puppets , or like Childrens Babies , and to these they did yeeld a Reverence , supposing some divine nature to be in them , because sometimes in the evening , Note how the Divill did strangely delude th●se people . & in the night time they had such illusions offered unto them , as that they saw these their Puppets to move and stirre up and downe in their houses , and sometimes to utter voyces , and give divers significations of such things as they would have to bee done , or not to bee done : Yea , and that with such effect from the Devill also , that if their wils , and commandements were not fulfilled , there was some vengeance or punishment executed upon them or their Children , the more to keepe them in awe and servilitie to the great enemy of Mankind .

Not long after the Spaniards entred those parts , there were in divers of the Ilands , and some part of the Mayne , such incredible Tempests and Disturbances of the Ayre , by Wind and Raine , Thunder and Lightning , as that the like had never beene seene nor heard of in the memory of man : which are ordinarily interpreted to be the speciall worke of the Devill : who not unfitly is tearmed by Saint Paul the Prince of the Ayre , as having a liberty given him of God , there sometimes to doe strange Executions : and of likelihood , hee did make these stirres , Note the malice of Satan . either grieving that the name of Christ was at all brought into those parts , or else seeking to fright the Inhabitants from associating themselves with those who brought ( although but superstitiously ) the knowledge of God , and the Redeemer , being desirous that they should looke for more such distemperatures and vexations , if they would confederate themselves with them .

* * he ad●tion of 〈◊〉 ople be ap●●● of the 〈◊〉 , and ●●ping The people were so ignorant of all humane and civill conversation , and trafficking into those parts , at the first comming of the Christians thither , that they thought they could never sufficiently admire their persons , their Shipping , or any other thing which they brought with them : Whereupon they without ceasing , gazed on the manner of their Ships , seeing them to bee so great , and consisting of divers Plancks : But they were never satisfied with staring upon their Mastes , Sayles , Cables , and other Ropes and Tacklings , whereunto they had never beheld any thing like before : and yet nature and necessity had taught them to make unto themselves certaine Vessels for the Sea , of some one tree , which they did use to get downe , not with cutting , but with fire : and when it lay along upon the ground , they did use also fire , either to burne away that which was tough and unfit without , or to make it hollow within : although they have also the shels and bones of Fishes , wherby they made it smooth .

But some of these Troughes or Canoes were so great , that sometimes above twenty men have been found rowing in one .

* * The mighty bignesse of the Trees of ●rasile . The Trees of America , but especially in Brasilia , being so huge , that it is reported of them , that severall Families have lived in severall Armes of one Tree , to such a number as are in some petty Village , or Parish in Christendome .

* * They conceived them to be some Gods . Among other strange opinions , which they conceived of the Spaniards , this was one , that they were the Sonnes of some God , and not borne of mortall seed , but sent downe from Heaven unto them : and this conceit was the stronger in them , because at the first , in such conflicts as they had with them , they could kill few or none of them : the reason whereof was , partly the Armour of the Spaniards , and partly the want of Iron and Steele upon the Arrowes which the Americans did shoot : but they were not very long of that opinion , that they were immortall , but reformed their errour , both by seeing the dead corpes of some of the Christians , and by trying an experiment upon some of them also : for they tooke of them , and put their heads under the water , and held them till they were choaked ; by which they knew them to be of the same nature as other men .

* * They admired and feared a Letter . Among other points which did shew the great ignorance , and unlettered stupidity of these Indians , this was one , that they could not conceive the force of writing of Letters ; in so much that when one Spaniard would send unto another , being distant in place , in India with any Provision , and would write a Letter by him , what the fellow had received from him : The poore Indian would marvell how it should bee possible that hee to whom hee came should bee able to know all things which either himselfe brought , or the sender directed : And thereupon divers of them did thinke , that there was some kinde of Spirit in the Paper , and marvellously stood in feare of such a thing as a Letter was .

This Countrey yeeldeth great abundance of strange Herbes , the like whereof are not to bee found in other parts of the World : * * Some very rare Beasts . as also some very rare Beasts , as one among the rest , who by Peter Martyrs description , hath some part like an Elephant , some part like an Horse , and divers other parts like divers other Beasts ; Nature having studied to expresse a great many severall Creatures in one .

There are also found at the Sea , or within some Rivers , * * The Sea Crocodiles . Crocodiles , but not of that hugenesse as those that breed in Aegypt , in the River Nilus , whereof some are described by Plinie , to bee at the least foure and twenty Cubits in length , which argues the Crocodile to bee the greatest Creature in the World , that comes of an Egge .

* * Some rare stones . There are also thereabouts , some extraordinary Stones growing in the Land , as above others , the Bloud stones , wherof there are great store : but especially there is one thing of great beauty and worth , that is , the abundance of Pearles , which are taken in Shell fishes , and are of as great quantity , as any that be in the Seas neere to the East Judies : so that the true cause of the plenty of Pearle in Europe , in this our age , beyond that incomparably which hath beene in the dayes of our Fore-fathers , is to be ascribed to the Discovery of these New-found Lands .

* * Divers trees not else-where found . There are also here divers trees which are not to bee found elsewhere : and many Roots , which serve for divers purposes .

* * The abundance of Kine and Buls . Among other things ( whereof there is great plenty in those Westerne parts ) is the abundance of Kine and Buls : whereof they report , that there is such store in Cuba and Hispaniola , that there are killed downe divers thousands every yeare , whereof the Spaniard maketh no other use , but to take the Tallow , or the Hide ; which serveth them in their shipping , and for divers other purposes , but the flesh , of the most part of them , they suffer for to putrifie , as making little account of it : partly because of the heate of the Countrey , wherein they eat little flesh , and partly because they have great store of Hennes , and other more dainty meate , whereupon together with fish they doe very much feed .

It may seeme a kind of miracle unto him who looketh no higher than the ordinary rules of Nature , and doth not respect the extraordinary and unlimited power of God : that whereas a great part of America doth lye in the Zona torrida , in the selfe-same Climate with Aethiopia , and the hottest parts of the East Jndies , where the Inhabitants are not onely tawny , as all bee in Aegypt , and in Mauritania , but also cole-blacke , and very Negroes ; here there should bee no man whose colour is blacke , except it bee those which are brought out of Africa , but that the people should bee of a reasonable faire complexion : which is to be ascribed onely unto Gods peculiar Will , and not to that which some foolishly have imagined , that the generative seed of those people should be white , and that other of the Aethiopians blacke ; for that is untrue , in as much as the Aethiopians case doth not differ from the quality of other men .

The Spaniards did find the people to be here most simple , * * The condition of the people of America . without fraud , giving them kinde entertainment , according to their best manner ; exchanging for Knives , and Glasses , and such like toyes , great abundance of Gold and Pearle .

It is certaine , that by the very light of Nature , and by the ordinary course of humane shape , there were among this people very many good things , as affabilitie in their kinde , Hospitalitie towards strangers , which had not offended them , according to their ability , and open and plaine behaviour , * * Their Religion . yea , and in some parts of the West Indies there was an opinion in grosse , that the soule was immortall , and that there was life after this life : where beyond certaine Hils ( they know not where ) those which dyed in defence of their Countrey , should after their departure from this life , remaine in much blessednesse : which opinion caused them to beare themselves very valiantly in their fights , either striving to conquer their enemies , or with very good contentment enduring death ( if it were their hap to be taken , or slaine ) in as much as they promised themselves a better reward else-where : * * Tet many grieuous sins by them committed . But withall , as it could not choose but be so , there were many other grievous sinnes amongst them , as Adoration of Divels , Sodomie , Incest , and all kinde of Adultery : Ambition in very high measure ; a deadly hatred each to other : which proceeded all from the Fountaine of ignorance wherewith Satan had blinded their eyes : yet there were among them some which by a kinde of blinde Witch-craft , had to evill purpose , acquaintance and entercourse with foule spirits .

* * Their Attire . The manner of their Attire , or beautifying themselves , which divers of these people had severally in severall parts , did seeme very strange unto them who came first into that Countrey . For some of them did adorne themselves with the shels of Fishes , some did weare Feathers about their heads , some had whole Garments made of Feathers , and those very curiously wrought , and placed together of divers colours : to which purpose they did most use the Feathers of Peacockes , or Parrots , or such other Birds , whose covering was of divers colours . Yea , in very many places they had their lower lippes bored thorow with a great hole , and something put into them , as also into the upper parts of their eares , being pierced in like manner : which as it seemed in themselves to be a point of beauty , so it made them appeare to other men to be wonderfull ugly .

* * Infinite store of Gold and Silver in America , The quantity of Gold and silver which was found in those parts was incredible , which is the true reason wherefore all things in Christendome ( as Bodin . de Repub. observeth ) doe serve to be sold at a higher rate than they were in the dayes of our Fore-fathers , when indeed they had not so : for as hee noteth , it is the plenty of Gold and Silver which is brought from this America , that maketh money to bee in greater store , and so may more easily bee given than it could bee in the dayes of our Predecessours .

* * Precious Mines . But for the thing it selfe , it is testified by all Writers that there were in those parts very great Mines of the most precious Mettals , that in the Banks of Rivers , with the washing of the water , there was divers times fretted out very good and bigge peeces of Gold , which without melting or trying , was of reasonable perfection ; and the like was to bee found in many places of the Land , when the people did digge for their Husbandry , or for any other use .

This made the Inhabitants there ( for the commonnesse of it ) to account Gold and Silver but as a vile thing , and yet by the reason of the colour of it for variety sake , to bee mingled with the Pearle , divers of them did weare it about their necks and about their armes . And yet wee doe finde that in some part of the West Indies , the Kings did make some reckoning of Gold , and by fire did try it out to the best perfection , as may appeare by * * Attabaliba his ransome . Attabaliba , who had a great House piled upon the sides with great wedges of Gold ready tryed , which hee gave to the Spaniards for a ransome of his life , and yet they most perfidiously did take his life from him .

* * The Countrey people exchanged it for any , bables . But the meane account ordinarily which the people had of Gold , did cause them very readily to bring unto the Spaniards at their first arrivall great store of that Mettall which they very readily exchanged for the meanest Trifles , and Gew-gaws , which the other could bring , even such things as wherewith Children doe use to play . But there was nothing more acceptable unto them , then Axes and Hammers , Knives , and all tooles of Iron , whereof they rather make account to cut downe their Timber , to frame it and to doe other such necessaries , to their convenient use belonging , than to fight or to doe hurt each to the other , and therein may appeare the great variety of Gods disposition of his Creatures here and there ; when in all that mayne Continent of America , but especially in that which lyeth betweene or neere the Tropickes , there is no Iron or Steele to bee found , which without doubt gave great way to the Conquest of the strongest places there , as of Mexico by name , when armed men with Gunnes , and other instruments of Warre , were to fight against them which were little better then naked ; and it was rightly upbraided by one of his Countrey-men to Ferdinandus Cortesius , upon one of his returnes from America , having made exceeding boast of his great victories in those parts , and comming afterwards in service into Africke , where he being hardly laid unto by the Moores , and shewing no valour at all , it was remembred unto him , that it was an easie thing for him to doe all those exploits which hee cracked so much of in the West - Indies , in as much as the people there had nothing to resist .

They dreaded men on Horse-back . There was 〈◊〉 ●●ing more dreadfull to those ●●●rmed men , than the sight of Horses and men riding upon them , whereof a very few did quickly over-beare many thousands of them , even almost in the beginning of the discovery of those parts .

Ferdinandus and Elizabeth , then King and Queene of Castile , and after them Charles the fift , the Emperour , who succeeded in their right , partly to stirre up their subjects to action , and partly to procure unto themselves the more treasure with lesse expence and trouble of their owne , did give leave unto divers of their Subjects , that by speciall commission they might passe into those parts , and there have severall Quarters and Countries allotted unto them , where they might dig and try out Gold and Silver , on condition , that they did allow clear unto the King the * * The King had the fift part for his tribute . fift part of such commodities as did arise unto them ; and therefore neere unto every Mine and Furnace , the King had his speciall Officers , which did daily attend and take up his Tribute . And to the end that all things might the better bee ordered , both there and in Spaine ( concerning the affaires of those Countries ) the King caused a * * A Coun. sell at Sivill for the government of America . Counsell , and Counsell-house , to bee newly crected at Sivill , where all things should bee handled that did grow to any controversie : and where the intelligences and advertisements might be laid up as in a place of Record , which should from time to time be brought out of America : Of this Counsell , Peter Martyr ( who wrote the Decades ) was one , and continued there till he was very old : and therefore might upon the surest instructions set downe these things which hee committed to story .

* * Note the Spaniards cruelty . The desire of gaine caused the Spaniards to seeke further into the Countries : but the tyrannie and covetousnesse of the Spaniards was such , in taking from them their goods , in deflowring their Wives and Daughters ; but especially in forcing them to labour in their Gold Mines without measure , as if they had beene Beasts , that the people detesting them , and the name of Christians for their sakes , did some of them kill themselves , and the Mothers destroyed their Children in their bellies , that they might not bee borne to serve so hatefull a Nation : and some of them did in warre conspire against them ; so that by slaughter and otherwise , the people of the Countrey are almost all wasted now within a hundred yeares , being before many millions : and those which remaine are as slaves , and the Spaniards almost onely doe inhabite those parts . * * His insolency and tyrannizing pride . It is not unknowne to all the parts of Europe , that the insolency of the Spaniards is very great , even over Christians , tyrannizing , and playing all outrages wheresoever they get men in subjection , and this maketh them so hatefull to the Portugalls at home , to the Italians in Millaine and Naples , but especially to the Low-Countrey men , who have therefore much desired to shake off the yoake of their Governour . * * Their beastly bas●●esse . Besides that , they are men immoderately given to the lust of the Flesh , making no conscience ( even at home ) even to get Bastards in their young dayes , and reputing it no infamy unto them to frequent Harlots and Brothel-houses : but when they are abroad , especially in Warlike Services , they are very outragious , impudently and openly deflowring mens wives and daughters . It may easily then be guessed , what disorder they kept in the West Indies , where the Countries are hot , and the Women were not able to resist their insolencies , and how they did tyrannize over the poore unarmed people , making them to drudge for them , not onely like slaves , but bruit beasts : which grosse oversight of theirs , was at the first so apparant , that all of good mindes did complaine thereof , as appeareth by Peter Martyr himselfe , who in his Writing to the Pope , and other Princes , doth much deplore the ill usage of them ; who in name were Christians , towards those simple Infidels . And certainly , it caused many of them to * * Note their 1 ●●ma●ity . blaspheme the Name of GOD , and of Christ , and to renounce their Baptisme whereunto they were either forced or intreated , when they measured the God of the Christians by the actions of his Servants , whom they found to be Blasphemers and Swearers , riotous and great Drunkards , ravenous , tyrannous and Oppressours , unsatiable , covetous , Fornicators , beyond measure given to incredible Wantonnesse , and exercising even among themselves all kinde of envy , contention , murthers , poysonings , and all sort of inhumane behaviour .

Not long after the arrivall of the Spaniards there , The Fryers complaint of their cruelty . there were certaine Fryers and religious men , who mooved with some zeale to draw the people there to the Christian Faith , did travell into those parts , that so they might spread abroad the Gospell of Christ : and when they came there , beholding the intemperance of their Countrymen , which turned many away from the profession of Religion , they were much mooved in their hearts , and some of them by Writings , and some other of them by travelling personally backe againe into Spaine , did informe the King and his Court , how dishonourable a thing it was to the Name of Christ , that the poore people should be so abused : and how improbable it was that those courses being continued , any of them would hardly embrace the Faith .

The earnest Petition of these , caused Charles the Fift , the Emperour and the King of Spaine , by his Edict and open Proclamation published in the West Indies , to give liberty unto the Inhabitants and Naturals of the place , that they should be in the state of Freemen , and not of bond : * * Note . but his Subjects were so inured proudly to domineere over them , that this did little amend the condition of the people .

Since these dayes ( notwithstanding ) the blind zeale of the Spaniards hath beene such , as that the Kings have beene at some cost , and other men also have beene at great charge to erect divers Monasteries and Religious Houses there , and many have taken the paines to go out of Europe , ( as they think for Christs sake ) to reside as Monkes and Fryers in America .

There be established some Bishoprickes there , and other Governments Ecclesiasticall ; and the Masse is there published , and Latine Service , according to the custome of the Church of Rome ; labouring to roote out their infidelitie , but mingling the Christian Religion with much Popish Superstition .

By reason that the Countrey is exceeding rich and fruitfull , the Spaniards with great desire did spread themselves towards the North , where they found some more resistance , although nothing in comparison of Wariours , but the greatest of their labour was , to conquer the Kingdome of Mexico , * * Mexico described . which Mexico , is a Citie very great , and as populous almost as any in the World ; standing in the middest of a great Marsh or Fen. The Conquerour of this , was Ferdinandus Cortesius , so much renowned in Spaine unto this day .

If there were any thing at all in these West - Indies , which might sauour of civility , or any orderly kind of government , it was in the Kingdome of Mexico : where it appeared unto the Spaniards , that there is a certaine setled state , which was kept within compasse by some decrees and customes of their owne : and which was able to make some resistance ( as it may be termed ) if it be compared with the other Inhabitants of America : although little , if it bee conferred with the courses of Christendome : But the policie of the Spaniards was , that by private meanes they came to understand of a King that confined neere unto Mexico , who as hee was of good strength , so was hee of exceeding malice towards these his Borderers , and by his Forces and intelligence , Ferdinandus Cortesius and his Company came to have their will upon Mexico .

* * A great Lake . In this Countrey there standeth a very great Lake , which at the one end is very large , and almost round ; but towards the other end doth contract it selfe againe into a narrow roome , and then spreadeth wide againe and round , onely about the third part of the compasse of the greater end . In the lesser of the two , there are set some Houses in foure or five severall places , which represent our Villages : but in the greater part of the Lake standeth Mexico it selfe , being a Citie built of Bricke , to a good and elegant proportion , where the water issueth into divers streets of it , as it is in Venice , and from some part whereof there are divers Bridges unto the mayne Land , made also of Bricke : but from the other sides men doe come by Boats , wherof there is abundant store continually going in that Lake .

The Writers do record , that there is to be found in this Citie abundance of all kind of Provision , but especially Fruits , and other delightfull things , which are brought in from other parts of the Country .

* * Mexico the chiefe City of all those quarters . This was the chiefe City of all those quarters , before the arrivall of the Spaniards there , and in subjection thereunto were many large Provinces , extending themselves every way : so that the King of this place was a Prince of great estate : and accordingly thereunto , the Spaniards at this day have made it their chiefe and Royall Citie , where the King keepeth his Viceroy of Mexico for the West Jndies , as hee hath his Vice-roy at Goa for the East Indies : but from thence have all the parts of America : ( but especially that which they call Hispania nova ) their directions , and hence they fetch their Lawes , Ordinances , and Determinations , unlesse it be such great causes as are thought fit to bee referred to the Councell of Spain .

The Gulph of Mexico . The Sea which confineth neerest unto this City is called the Gulph of Mexico : where as in divers other Bayes or Gulphes , the Streame or Current is such , that Shippes cannot passe directly to and fro , but especially out of the Gulph , but they are forced to take their course , either high to the North , or low to the South .

* * Divers Ilands in the Gulph of Mexico . In and neere unto this Gulph are divers Ilands , conquered and inhabited by the Spaniards , as the forenamed Cuba , and Hispaniola , where the Spaniards were visited by our English in the time of Queen Elizabeth , and their Towns of Sancto Domingo , and Saint Iago , taken by Sir Francis Drake , as also Iarvaica , and Boriquen , otherwise called the Island of Saint Phu , where the Earle of Cumberland tooke the Towne of Porto Ricco , and many other Ilands of lesse note .

In the Sea coasts of all this Nova Hispania , the Kings of Spaine have built many Townes and Castles , and therein have erected divers Furnaces and Forges , for the Trying and Fining of their Gold .

They that doe write of the discovery of the West - Indies , doe report , that when Columbus at the first went thitherward , in their greatest distraction and doubtfulnesse of minde , whether to goe forward or backward , and Columbus had begged onely two or three dayes respit , there was one of his Company , who after the Sea manner , going up to discover the Land , did espie some fire : for the which being so happy and lucky a token , hee did hope to receive at the hands of the King of Spaine , some bountifull Reward : but when hee returned home , there was * * Note , nothing at all given unto him , which hee tooke with that male contentednesse and disdaine , that hee fled over into Africa , and there among the Moores , did apostatate and renounce the Christian Faith , so that hee became a Sarazen .

Of the parts of America towards the North.

THe rumour of the discovery of these parts being blowne over Christendome , and the great quantitie of the Land together with the fruitfulnesse thereof , being reported abroad , some other nations did enterprize to set foote therein ; as namely the Frenchmen , who sent certaine Shippes to a part of this Countrey , lying North from Hispania nova some few degrees , without the Tropicke of Cancer ; into which when they had arrived , because of the continuall greenenesse of the ground and Trees : ( as if it had beene a perpetuall spring ) they call it * * And named it Florida . Florida : where after some few of them had for a time setled themselves , the Spaniards tooke notice of it , and being unwilling to endure any such neighbours , they came suddenly on them , and most cruelly slew them all , without taking any ransome . And the French in revenge of this deed of the Spaniards , came in againe afterwards into this Countrey , and slew those that were the slayers of their Countrey men . Yet the Spaniards , for want of men , are not able to inhabite that Countrey , but leave it to the old people .

The French had built in Florida upon the * * The River Mayo . River of Mayo , where they were visited by our Sir Iohn Hawkins , a Fort which they called Fort Carolin , and had reasonably assured themselves for their defence against the Natives : but some malicious spirits amongst them fled to the Spaniards , with whom they returned againe into Florida to the murther and overthrow of their owne Countreymen .

Hee who list to see both the attempt of the French-men for the inhabiting of that part , and the usage of the Spaniards towards them ; let him reade the Expedition into Florida , which is the end of Benzo his Storie concerning the New found World ; and there hee shall finde both the covetous and insatiable nature of the Spaniards ; who would not endure the French neere unto them , although there was Land sufficient , and much to spare for both of them ; also their perfidiousnesse in breaking of Oathes and Promises , and their * * Note the Spaniards unchristian cruelty . unchristian cruelty , whereby they massacred all .

The Spaniards also to the number of three hundred Foote , and two hundred Horse under the conduct of Ferdinando de Soto , entred Florida , about the yeare of the Lord 1550 , and there conquered a thousand miles wide and large , and after foure or five yeares continuance in that Countrey , betooke themselves again from thence , and went to New Spaine , landing at Panuc in Shippes and Vessels that they had built in Florida . And in all that time notwithstanding many conflicts with the Natives , and divers discommodities and wants which they sustained in the Countrey , they lost but two hundred men .

After this departure of the Spaniards out of Florida , brought thither by Ferdinando de Soto , who died in the Countrey ; after the defeat of the French , and their revenge againe taken on the Spaniards , the King of Spaine sent thither some small Forces to take possession of the Countrey , and set downe there : for no other end as it is thought , but to keepe out other Nations from entring there : the one halfe whereof set downe on the River of Saint Augustine , and the other halfe a dozen leagues from thence , to the Northward , at a place by them called Saint Helena .

In the yeare 1586. as * * Sir Francis Drakes Voyage . Sir Francis Drake came coasting along from Cartagena , a Citie in the mayne Land to which hee put over , and tooke it after hee departed from Sancto Domingo , when the mortality that was amongst our English had made them to give over their Enterprize , to goe with Nombre de Dios , and so over Land to Pannaenia , there to have stricken the stroake for the Treasure : hee was on the Coast of Florida , in the height of thirtie , our men described on the shoare a place built l●ke a Beacon , which was made for men to discover to Sea-ward : so comming to the Shore , they marched along the Rivers side , till they came to a Fort built all of whole Trees , which the Spaniards called the Fort of Saint Iohn , where the King entertained halfe his Forces that hee then had in the Countrey , which were a hundred and fifty Souldiers : the like number being at Saint Helena , all of them under the governement of Petro Melendez , Nephew to the Admirall Melendez , that a fifteene or sixteene years before had beene to bring with our English in the Bay of Mexico ; this Fort our English tooke , and not farre from thence the Towne also of Saint Augustine upon the same River , where resolving to undertake also the Enterprize of Saint Helena , when they came to the Havens mouth , where they should enter , they durst not for the dangerous shols : wherefore they forsooke the place , coasting along to Virgina , where they tooke in Master Ralph Lane and his Company , and so came into England , as you shall heare when wee speake of Virginia .

In these Northerne parts of America , but especially within the maine Continent , some have written ( but how truely I cannot tell ) that there is a Sea , which hath no entercourse at all with the Ocean : so that if there be any third place beside the Mare Caspium , and the Mare Mortuum in Palestina , which retaineth in it selfe great saltnesse , and yet mingleth not with other Seas , it is in these Countries .

There is also in new Spaine , a great salt Lake , as bigge or bigger then the dead Sea of Palestine , in the midst of which stands the great City of Tenustitan , or Mexico , the Mistris or imperiall City of those parts : and on the bankes or sides of that Lake ; many other Cities also beside , which though they are but little in comparison of the greatnesse of Tenustitan , yet of themselves are great . This Tenustitan is supposed to consist of sixty thousand houses , as you may reade in the third Chapter of the fifth of the Decades : and this City standing in the midst and centre of this salt Lake , goe which way you will from the Continent to the Citie , it is at least a league and an halfe or two leagues , on the Lake unto it : some of the other Cities are said to be thirty , some of fortie thousand Houses : the names of these are * * Foure Cities more in America . Mesiqualcingo , Coluacana , Wichilabasco , Iztapalapa , and others : the Lake though it bee in the middest of the Land , hath his fluxus & refluxus , his ebbing and flowing like the Sea , and yet seventy leagues distant from the Sea .

But certaine it is , that towards the South of these parts which is the Northerne part of Hispania nova , above Mexico , there * * The burning Hill in America . is a burning Hill , which oftentimes breaketh out into flames , as Vesuvius in Campania , did in the time of the elder Plinie , and as Aetna hath done many Ages since and before .

Peter Martyr in the fift of his Decads saith , that eight leagues from Tenustitan or Mexico , as Ferdinando Cortes went thither from the Chiurute Calezthere , is a Hill called of the Inhabitants Popecatepeque , as much as to say , a smokie Mountaine , at the top whereof there is a hole of a League and a halfe wide , out of which are cast * * A strange fire . fire and stones , with Whirlewindes ; and that the thicknesse of the ashes lying about the Hill is very great . It is reported also elsewhere of this Hill , that the flames and ashes thereof oft times destroy the fields and Gardens thereabouts . When Cortes went by it , he senten Spaniards , with Guides of the Countrey , to see and make report thereof unto him : two of which ten venturing further then the rest , saw the mouth of this fiery Gulph at the Hils top , and had they not happily soone returned towards their Fellowes , and sheltred themselves under a Rock on the side of the Hill , such a multitude of stones were cast out with the flame , that by no meanes they could have escaped .

* * Of Virginia , the first plantation . The Englishmen also , desirous by Navigation to adde some thing unto their owne Countrey , as before time they had travelled toward the farthest North part of America ; so lately finding that part which lyeth betweene Florida and Nova Francia was not inhabited by any Christians , and was a Land fruitfull and fit to plant in : they sent thither two severall times , two severall Companies , as Colonies to inhabite that part , which in remembrance of the Virginitie of their Queene , they called Virginia . But this Voyage being enterprized upon by private men , and being not throughly followed by the State , the possession of this Virginia , for that time was discontinued , and the Countrey left to the old Inhabitans .

* * The second plantation . I here was some English people , who after they had understood the calmnesse of the Climate , and goodnesse of the foyle , did upon the instigation of some Gentlemen of England , voluntarily offer themselves , even with their Wives and Children , to goe into those parts to inhabit ; but when the most of them came there ( upon some occasions ) they returned home againe the first time , which caused that the second yeare , there was a great company transported thither , who were provided of many necessaries , and continued there over a whole Winter , under the guiding of Master Lane : but not finding any sustenance in the Country ( which could well brooke with their nature ) and being too meanely provided of Corne and Victuals from England they had like to have perished with Famine ; and therefore thought themselves happy , when Sir Francis Drake , comming that way from the Westerne Indies , would take them into his Ships , and bring them home into their Native Country . Yet some there were of those English , which being left behind , ranged up and downe the Countrey ( and hovering about the Sea coast ) made meanes at last ( after their induring much misery ) by some Christian Shippes to bee brought backe againe into England .

While they were there inhabiting , there were some children borne , and baptized in those parts , and they might well have endured the Countrey , if they might have had such strength as to keepe off the inhabitants from troubling them in tilling the ground , and reaping such Corne as they would have sowed .

* * The third plantation . Againe , in the dayes of our now raigning Soveraigne , in the yeere of our Lord , 1606. the English planted themselves in Virginia , under the degrees 37 , 38 , 39. where they doe to this day continue , and have built three Towns and Forts , as namely Iames-Towne and Henrico ; Fort Henricke , and Fort Charles , with others , which they hold and inhabite ; sure retreats for them against the force of the natives , and reasonably secured places against any power that may come against them by Sea .

In the same height , but a good distance from the coast of Virginia , lyeth the Iland called by the Spaniards , La Bermuda , but by our English , the * * Of the Summer Ilands . Summer Ilands , which of late is inhabited also by our Countrey-men .

North-ward from them on the coast , lyeth Norumbega , which is the South-part of that which the French-men did , without disturbance of any Christian , for a time possesse . For the French-men did discover a large part of America , towards the Circle Articke , and did build there some Townes , and named it of their owne Countrey , Nova Francia .

As our English-men have adventured very farre for the discovery of new found Lands : so with very great labour and diligence they attempted to open something higher than Nova Francia : and therefore with some Shippes they did passe thither , and entred upon the Land , from whence they brought some of the people , whose countenance was very tawny , and duskie ; which commeth not by any heate , but the great cold of the Climate , chilling and pricking them : but the digestion and stomacke of these people is very good , in so much that like unto the Tartars & some other Northerne Nation , their feeding was ( for the most part ) upon raw meate , their manners otherwise being barbarous , and sutable to their Diet.

They had little leatherne Boats , wherein they would fish neere the brinckes of the Sea , and at their pleasure would carry them from place to place on their backes .

Notwithstanding , all their paines there taken , it was a great errour and ignorance in our men , when they supposed that they should finde good store of Gold-mines in those quarters : for the Countrey is so cold , that it is not possible to find there any full concoction of the sunne , to breed and worke such a mettall within the ground ; and therefore howsoever they brought home some store of earth , which they supposed to bee Oare , and of shining stones , yet when it came to the tryall , it prooved to be nothing worth , but verified the Proverbe , All is not gold that glisters .

In very many parts of these Northerne Countries of America , there is very fit and opportune fishing , some pretty way within the Sea , and therefore divers Nations of Europe , doe yearely send Fishers thither , with shipping and great store of salt : where when they have taken fish and dryed it , and salted it at the land , they bring it home into Christendome , and utter it commonly by the name of New-found-land-fish . The fish of New-found land .

The English about the yeare 1570 did adventure farre for to open the North parts of America , and sayled as farre as the very Circle Articke , hoping to have found a passage by the North to the Molluccoes , and to China , which hitherto , neither by the North of Asia , nor by the North of America , could be effected by them , by reason of the very great Colde and Ice in the Climate .

The rest of the Island ( being a hugh space of Earth ) hath not hitherto , by any Christian , to any purpose beene discovered but by those neere the Sea-coast it may be gathered , that they all which doe there inhabite , are men rude and uncivill , without the knowledge of God . Yet on the North-west part of America , some of our Englishmen going through the Straights of Magellan , and passing towards the North , by Hispania Nova , have touched on a Countrey , where they have found good entertainment , and the King thereof yeelded himselfe to the subjection of the Queen of England : whereupon they termed it * * Nova Albion . Nova Albion .

Sir Francis Drake , who toucht upon that Countrey , and for some pretty time had his abode there , doth report in his Voyage , that the Countrey is very good , yeelding much store of divers Fruits , delightfull both to the eye and taste : and that the people are apt enough by hospitality to yeeld favour and entertainment to strangers : but it is added withall , that they are marveilously addicted to Witch-craft , and adoration of Devils ; from which they could not be perswaded to abstaine , even in the very presence of our Countrey-men .

Of Peru and Brasile .

The Portugales discovery of Brasile . WHen the Portugals had first begun the Navigation by Africke into the East Indies , some of them intending to have held their course East-ward unto Caput bonae spei , were driven so farre West-ward by Tempest , that they landed in a large and great Countrey , which by a generall name is called Brasilia , where they began to enter Traffick , and with Townes and Castles , to plant themselves , before that the Spaniard had discovered Peru , which is the South part of America . So that at this day , whatsoever the King of Spaine , hath in Brasilia , it is in the right of the Crowne of Portugall .

Wee may read in Guicciardine , how when the Spaniards towards the West , and the Portugales towards the East , had descryed many New-found-lands , there grew great contention betweene them , what should be appropriated unto the one , and what might be seized on by the other ; therefore for the better establishing of peace amongst them , they had both recourse unto Alexander the sixt , who was Pope in the yeare 1492. and somewhat before and after : and hee taking on him after the proud manner of the Bishops of Rome , to dispose of it , which belonged not unto him , did set down an order betweene them ; which was , that all the degrees of Longitude , being 360 in the Globe , being divided into two parts , the Spaniards should take one , and the Portugals the other : so that in this division they were to begin in those degrees , under which some of Peru standeth ; from the which they counting forwards towards the East , did allow Brasilia , and 180 degrees to the Portugals Eastward , and so from Brasilia Westward to the Spaniards as many : so that hee had in his portion all America except Brasilia .

A large Country and much inba●ited . This Countrey is large , having in it many people , and severall Kingdomes , which are not all possessed by the Portugals ; but so , that other Christians , as namely the Frenchmen being driven out of their Countrey for Religion , have set foote in there , though afterwards againe they have abandoned it .

What the Portugals doe at this day in Brasilia , I know not ; but it is likely now , that whatsoever there is held by the Christians , is reputed to be under the Spaniards , as many other parts of Brasile promiscuously are : yet certaine it is , that now almost 40. yeares since some of the French-men , which professed sincere religion , and could not then be suffered quietly to live in France , did provide certain shipping , and under the conduct of one Villagagno a Knight of Malta , but their owne Country-man did goe thither , and continued there by the space of one yeare , having Ministers and Preachers amongst them , and the exercise of the word & Sacraments : but after by the evil counsell of some of the chiefe Rulers of France , which were addicted unto the Pope , the heart of Villagagno was drawn away , insomuch that he contumeliously using the Pastors , and chiefe of that Company , did force them to retire into France : so that the habitation there was then utterly relinquished , and hath not since been continued by any of the French .

There is a learned man , one Iohannes Lyreus , who was in their voyage , and hath written a Tract , called Navigatio in Brasiliam , which is very well worth the reading , not onely to see what did befall him and his Company , but what the manners of that people , with whom they did converse . The Inhabitants here are men also utterly unlearned ; but men more ingenious than the common sort of the Americans ; goodly of body , and straight of proportion , going alwayes naked ; reasonable good Warriours after their Countrey fashion , using to fat such enemies as they take in the Warres , that afterwards they may devoure them , which they may devoure them , which they doe with great pleasure . For divers of the people of those Quarters , as the Caribees , and the Cannibals , and almost all , are eaters of mans flesh .

* * The abundance o Brasile wood . In this Countrey groweth abundance of that wood which since is brought into Europe , to die red colours , and is of the place whence it commeth called Brasil Wood ; the Trees whereof are exceeding great .

The people of Brasil , where Lyrius and his fellowes lived , are called by the name of Tauvoupinambaltii , by description of whose qualities , many things may be learned concerning the rest of the Inhabitants neere thereabout .

First then , they have no letters among them , and yet seeme to bee very capable of any good understanding : as appeared by the speech of some of them , reproving the Frenchmen for their great greedinesse and covetousnesse of gaine , when they would take so much paines , as to come from another end of the World to get Commodities there .

* * Their Religion . Their computation is onely by the Sunne and Moone , who they hold to be of a Divine nature : and although they know nothing truly concerning God , yet they have a darke opinion that the soule doth live after the separation from the body .

* * Their apparell . The men and women thorowout the whole Countrey doe goe starke naked , even very few of them having any thing on to cover their Privities , only some of them doe pull some kinde of ornaments thorow their eares , and the most of them have their lower-lip bored thorow with a great hole , therein putting some device or other .

* * The proportion of the Inhabitants . They looke very disguisedly , but they are all wonderfull straight of limbe and proportion , insomuch that the Author writeth , that in all the time wherein hee lived among them , hee saw not one crooked backt or mishapen in any part : whereof seeking to , give a reason , hee ascribeth it to this , that their Children are never swathed , nor bound about with any thing when they are first borne , but are put naked into the bed with their Parents to lie ; which beds are devised of Cotton wooll , and hung up between two trees not farre from the ground , in the which slagging downe in the middle , men and their wives and their children doe lie together .

But whether this bee the true reason of the straightnesse of their bodies , it may bee doubted , from the authority of Saint Hierome , who in one of his Treatises mentioning that the Children of the noblest and greatest Romanes in his time , were very crooked , when other which were bred of meaner parents were not so , imputeth it to this cause , that the Gentlewomen of Rome , in a kinde of wantonnesse , did not suffer their Infants to bee so long swathed as poorer people did , and that thereby their joynts and members not being tied and restrained within compasse , did flye out of proportion .

Certainely howsoever there may be some reasons naturally given of these things , it is much to be ascribed to the immediate will of God , who giveth and taketh away beauty at his pleasure .

* * Note . The men of these parts are very strong , and able of body , and therefore either give sound strokes with their Clubs wherewith they fight , or else shoot strong shoots with their Bowes , whereof they have plenty , and if any of them bee taken in the Warres ( after they have beene crammed of purpose to bee eaten of their enemies ) they are brought forth to execution , wherein marvellous willingly they doe yeeld themselves to death , as supposing that nothing can be more honourable unto them , than to bee taken , and to dye for their Countrey . He therefore who is to kill the other , doth with very much insolencie & pride insult over him , which is to be slaine ; saying , thou art he which wouldst have spoyled and destroyed us and ours , but now I am to recompence thee for thy paines , and the other without all feare replies ; Yea I am hee that would have done it , & would have made no spare , if I had prospered in mine intent , and other such sutable words , shewing their resolution to conquer , or willingly to dye in the common cause of themselves and their people , * * The Canibals , or man-eaters , which is the Countrey custome . It is strange to see the inhumane and unnaturall custome which many of the people of the West - Indies have , for there are whole Ilands full of such Canibals as doe eate mans flesh ; and among the rest , these Tovonpinambaltij are famous that way , who when they are disposed to have any great meeting , or to have any solemne feast , they kill some of their adversaries whom they keepe in store for that purpose , and cutting him out into collops , which they call Boucan , they will lay them upon the coles , and for divers dayes together , make great mirth in devouring them : wherein they have this fashion , very strange , that so long as they are in their eating banquet , although it continue divers dayes , they doe never drinke at all , but afterwards , when they are disposed to fall to drinking of a certaine liquor which they have amongst them , they will continue bousing at it for two or three whole dayes , and in the meane time never eate . In many parts both of Hispania nova , and Peru , as also in the Ilands neere adjoyning , they have an herbe , wherof they make great use ; of which some is brought into divers parts of Europe , under the name of * * Their great use of Tobacco . Tobacco , Paetum , or Nicosiana , although we have also much counterfeit of the same : the people of those parts doe use it as Phisicke to purge themselves of humours , and they apply it also to the filling of themselves , the smoake of it being received through a leafe , or some such hollow thing , into the nostrils , head and stomacke , and causing the party which receiveth it , to lie as if he were drunke or dead for a space , needing no food or nourishment in the meane while . Whereof it cannot be denied , but that it is possible that by prescript of Physicke , it may be serviceable for some purposes among us , although that also it be very disputable , in as much as they who speak most highly of it , must and doe confesse that the force of it is obstupefactive , and no other , whereby it produceth his owne effects , and wisemen should be wary and sparing in receiving of such a thing . But when we doe consider the vaine and wanton use which many of our Countrymen have of late taken up in receiving of this Tabbaco , not onely many times in a day , but even at meat , Note . and by the wa● to the great waste both of their purse and of their bodies , wee may well deplore the vanitie of the Nation , who thereby propose themselves as ridiculous to the French , and other our Neighbours . And certainly , if it were possible that our worthy , warlike , and valiant Progenitors , might behold hold their manners , ( who doe most delight therein ) they would wonder what a generation had succeeded in their roomes ; who addict themselves to so fond , and worse then effeminate passion .

Benzo , who lived among them of the West Indies , doth call the smell of it a Tartarus and hellish savour : And whosoever looketh into those Bookes , which our Christians travelling thither have written , concerning those West Indies , shall finde that the Inhabitants there , doe use it most as a remedy against that which is called Lues Venerea , whereunto many of them are subject , being uncleane in their conversation ; and that not onely in Fornication and Adultery with Women , * * Note this yee Tobacoonists . but also their detestable and execrable sinne of Sodomie .

After that the Spaniards had for a time possessed Hispania Nova , for the desire of Gold and Pearle , some of them travailed toward the South : and as by water they found the Sea West-ward from Peru , which is alwaies very calme , and is by them called the South-Sea , as the other wherein Cuba standeth is tearmed the North-Sea , so by land they found that huge & mighty Country , which is called * * A description of the people of Peru. Peru , wherein the people are ( for the most part ) very barbarous , and without God ; men of great stature , yea , some of them farre higher than the ordinary sort of men in Europe ; using to shoot strongly with Bows made of Fish-bones , and most cruell people to their enemies .

Our English people who have travailed that way , do in their writings confesse that they saw upon the South of Peru , very huge & tall men , who attempting upon them when they put to land for fresh water , were much frighted with their Gunnes , or else doubtlesse had offered violence unto them ; which our men fearing , got them away as speedily as they could .

There was one Petrus de Cieca , a Spaniard , who when he had travailed two and twenty yeeres , returned backe againe into Europe , and wrote an excellent Booke of the Discovery of that whole Country . And he amongst other things doth record , that there are found in some parts of Peru , very huge and mighty bones of men that had bin Gyants who dwelt and were buried there .

* * The Riches of the Countrey of Peru. Amongst these the Spaniards ( partly by force , but especially by perfidious treason ) did get infinite sums of Gold and Pearles , wherewith being allured , they hoped for more , by reason that a great part therof lyeth under the Zona Torrida , and that caused them to spread themselves here , and there , as farre as they durst in the Country , where in some places they digged Gold out of the Earth ; and in some other they found it ready digged and tryed unto their hands by the people of the Country , which had used that trade before their comming thither .

Among other creatures which are very famous in this Peru , there is a little * * A strange story of the Beast Cincia . beast called Cincia , which is no bigger then a Fox , the tayle whereof is long , the feet short , and the head very like a Fox , which hath a bagge hanging under her belly , whereinto shee doth use to put her young , when shee seeth them in danger of any hunter or passenger .

That Petrus de Cieca ( of whom mention was made before ) telleth that himselfe saw one of them , which had no lesse then seven yong ones lying about her : but as soone as she perceived that a man was comming neere unto her , shee presently got them into her bagge , and ranne away with such incredible swiftnesse as one would not have imagined .

After the Spaniards had conquered Mexico , they discovered Peru , travelling towards the South , and as they prevailed against the Mexicans , taking part with an enemy Neighbour : so finding two brothers striving in Peru , Guascar and Atabaliba , they so demeaned themselves in their difference that they ruin'd both , and got there incredible store of Gold .

The first attempters against the Peruvians The first that attempted against the Peruvians and destroyed their Kings , were Iames of Almagra , and the two brothers of Pizarroes : but dealing trecherously & cruelly with the Peruvians , the long enjoyed not their victory , but all of them died a violent death .

The people of Peru are in many places much wiser than those of Cuba , Hispaniola , and some other parts of the Continent where the Spaniards first landed , and therfore they have some orders and solemne customes among them ; as among the rest , they doe bury their dead with observable Ceremonies , laying up their bodies with great solemnity into a large house prepared for that purpose .

They have also in one Province there a custome of carrying of news and messages very speedily , to the end the King and Governour of the Country may presently take advertisement of any thing which falleth out ; and this is not on Horse-backe , or by the Dromedary , or Elke , as they use in other places , but onely men who passe over Rockes and thorow Bushes the next way , and in certain set places there be always fresh Postes to carry that farther which is brought to them by the other .

The Spaniards have here and there scatteringly upon the Sea-coasts set up some Towns and Castles , but are not able to possesse almost any thing of the Land : neither have they as yet discovered the inward parts thereof , though daily they spread themselves more and more ; in so much that it is supposed , that within these seven yeares last past , they have gotten into Guiana , where in former time no strength of that Nation hath bin .

* * Guiana Guiana is a Countrey which lyeth to the North-sea , in the same height as Peru to the South ( as it is described ) about five degrees from the Aequinoctiall , and that ( as I take it ) towards the South .

* * The richnesse and pleasantnes of the Countrey . The Countrey is supposed to be exceeding rich , and to haue in it many Mynes of Gold ( which have not yet been touched , or at least but very lately ) and to be exceeding fertile , and delightfull otherwise , although it lie in the heate of Zona Torrida : but there is such store of Rivers and fresh waters in every part thereof , and the soyle it selfe hath such correspondency thereunto , that it is reported to be as green and pleasant to the eye as any place in the World .

Some of our Englishmen did with great labour and danger , passe by water into the heart of the Country , and earnestly desired that some forces of the English might be sent thither , and a Colony erected there : by reason of the distance of the place and the great hazard , that if it should not succeed well , it might proove dishonourable to our Nation ; and withall , because the Spaniards have great companies and strength , although not in it , yet many waies about it , that intendment was discontinued .

In divers parts of this Peru , and neere unto Guiana , there are very many great rivers , which as they are fit for any navigation that should be attempted to goe up within the Land , so otherwise they must needs yeeld health and fruitfulnesse to those that inhabite there . The greatest of these Rivers is that which some call Oregliana , or the * * The River of the Amazones . river of the Amazones . And next is the river Maragnone , & down towards Magellane straits Rio de la Plata : and our Englishmen doe speake of the river Orinoque ; In the greatest of which , this is famous , that for a good space after they have run into the maine sea , yea , some write 20. or 30. miles , they keepe themselves unmixt with the salt water , so that a very great way within the Sea , men may take up as fresh water , as if they were neere the Land .

The first of our Nation that sailed to Guiana , and made report thereof unto us , Sir Walter Raleigh did first discover it to the English . was Sir Walter Raleigh , who travelled far up into the Country upon the River Orinoque : after him , one or two voyages thither did Captaine Kemmish make , and now lately Captain Harcourt , with others , have visited that Country , where our men continued the space of three or foure yeares , being kindely intreated of the natives , who much desire them to come and make some plantation amongst them , hoping by them to be defended against the Spaniards , whom they * * They hate the Spaniard , and love the English . greatly hate and feare . When Sir Walter Raleigh came to Guiana , he overthrew the Spaniards that were in Trinidado , and tooke Bereo their Captaine or Generall prisoner : he loosed and set at liberty foure or five Kings of the people of that Countrey , that Bereo kept in chains , and sent them home to their owne : which deed of his did winne him the hearts of that people , and make them much to favour our English at this day .

Divers also of that Country , which amongst them are men of note have beene brought over into England , and here living many yeares , are by our men brought home to their owne Countrey ; whose reports and knowledge of our Nation is a cause that they have beene well intreated of these Guianians , and much desired to plant themselves among them .

* * A strange Storie . Our men that travelled to Guiana , amongst other things most memorable did report , and in writing delivered to the world , that neere unto Guiana , and not far from those places , where themselves were , there were men without heads ; which seemed to maintaine the opinion to be true which in old time was conceived by the Historians and Philosophers , that there were Acephali , whose eyes were in their breasts , and the rest of their face there also situated : and this our English travellers have reported to be so ordinarily & confidently mentioned , unto them in those parts where they were , that no sober man should any way doubt of the truth thereof .

Now because it may appeare that the matter is but fabulous , in respect of the truth of Gods creating of them , and that the opinion of such strange shapes & monsters as were said to be in old time , that is , men with heads like Dogs , some with eares downe to their ankles , others with one huge foot alone , whereupon they did hop from place to place , was not worthy to be credited , although Sir Iohn Mandevill of late age , fondly hath seemed to give credit and authority thereunto , yea , and long since , he who tooke upon him the name of Saint Augustine , in writing that counterfeit Booke Ad fratres in Eremo : It is fit that the certainty of the matter concerning these in Peru , should be knowne : and that is , that in Quinbaia , and some other parts of Peru , the men are borne as in other places , and yet by devises which they have , after the birth of Children when their bones and grisbles , and other parts are yet tender and fit to be fashioned , they doe crush downe the heads of the Children unto the breasts and shoulders , and doe with frames of wood and other such devises , keepe them there , that in time they grow continuate to the upper part of the trunk of the body , and so seeme to have no necks or heads . And againe , some other of them thinking that the shape of the head is very decent , if it bee long and erect after the fashion of a Sugar-loafe , doe frame some other to that forme by such wooden Instruments , as they have for that purpose , and by binding and swathing them doe keep them so afterwards . And that this is the custome of those people , and that there is no other matter in it , Petrus de Cieca , who travelled almost all over Peru , and is a grave and sober Writer , in his description of those Countries doth report .

* * Their strange devises to take fowles . There be in some parts of Peru , people which have a strange device for the catching of divers sorts of Fowles , wherein they especially desire to take such as have their feathers of pyed , orient , and various colours ; and that not so much for the flesh of them , which they may eate , as for their feathers , whereof they make garments , either short , as Cloakes , or as Gownes , long to the ground , and those their greatest Nobles doe weare , being curiously wrought , and by order , as appeareth by some of them being brought into England .

And here by this mention of feathers , it is not amisse to specifie , that in the Sea , which is the Ocean lying betwixt Europe and America , there be * * Divers flying fishes . divers flying Fishes , yet whose wings are not feathers , but a thin kinde of skin , like the wings of a Bat or Reare-mouse : and these living sometimes in the water , and flying sometimes in the ayre , are well accepted in neither place : for below , either ravenous Fishes are ready to devoure them : or above , the Sea-Fowles are continually beating at them .

Some of the Spaniards desirous to see how farre this Land of Peru did goe towards the South , travelled downe , till at length they found the Lands end , and a little straight or narrow Sea , which did runne from the mayne Ocean toward Africke , into the South Sea .

One * * Magellanus Straits . Magellanus was he , that found this Straight , and although it be dangerous , passed through it , so that of his name it is called Fretum Magellanicum , or Magellane Straights .

And this is the way whereby the Spaniards do passe to the backside of Peru and Hispania Nova , and whosoever will compasse the whole World ( as some of our English men have done ) hee must of necessity ( for any thing that is yet knowne ) passe through this narrow Straight . Ferdinandus Magellanus , having a great mind to travell and being very desirous to goe unto the Malucco Islands by some other way , then by the backside of Africke , if it might be , did in the yeere 1520 , set forth from Sivill in Spain with five ships , and travelled toward the West Indies , and went so farre toward the South as that he came to the lands end , wher he holding his course , in a narrow passage towards the West , for the space of divers dayes , did at the length , peaceably passe through the Straights , and came into a great Sea which some after his name , doe call Mare Magellanicum , some others Mare pacificum , because of the great calmnesse & quietnes of the waters there ; but most commonly it is termed the * * The So th Sea . South Sea ; the length whereof hee passed in the space of three Moneths and twenty dayes , and came unto the Moluocos , * * The Molucco●s . where being set upon by the East Indian people , himself and many of his company were slaine : and yet one of his Ships ( as the Spaniards doe write ) called Victoria , did get away from those Moluccoes , and returning by the Cape Bonae Spei , on the South side of Africke , came safe unto Spaine .

* * Magellanus the first that ever compassed the World . So that it may be truely said , that if not Magellanus , yet some of his company were the first that did ever compasse the World , through all the degrees of longitude .

Johannes Lyrius in the end of his Booke De Navigatione in Brasiliam , doth tell that Sir Francis Drake of England , when he passed thorow Magellane straits , and so to the Molucco Ilands , & then homeward from the East by Africke , did in a devise give the Globe of the Earth with this word or motto , Primus me circumdedisti : which is not simply to be understood that never any had gone round the World before him , but that never any of fame ; for Magellane himselfe was slaine ( as before is noted ) or else he did doubt of the truth of that narration , that the Ship called Victoria , did returne with safety into Spaine .

The Maps which were made at first concerning America , & Peru , did so describe the Westerne part of Peru , as if when a man had passed Magellane Straits , and did intend to come upwards towards Nova Hispania , on the further side , he must have borne much West , by reason that the Land did shoot out with a very great Promontory , and bending that way .

But our Englishmen which went with Sir Francis Drake , did by their owne experience certainely finde that the Land from the uttermost end of the Straits on Peru side , did goe up towards the South directly , without bending to the West ; and that is the cause wherefore all the new Maps and Globes , especially made by the English , or by the Dutch , who have taken their directions from our men , are reformed according to this new observation .

When the Spaniards had once found an ordinary passage from the South Sea towards the Moluccoes , they never ceased to travaile that way , and discovered more and more : and by that meanes they have found out divers Ilands not knowne in former Ages ; as two for example sake , a good distance from the Moluccoes , which because * * Insulae Latronum . they be inhabited by men which do steale not only each from other , but doe pilfer away all things that they can from such strangers as doe land thereabouts , they are called Insulae Latronum .

They have also descryed some other neere unto the East Indies ; which they now tearme , * * Jnsulae Solomonis . Insulae Solomonis . But the most renowned of all , are those of whom the name is given * * Philippinae . Philippina , in remembrance of Philip the Second King of Spaine , at whose cost they were discovered .

* * Their Rich●s . These Philippinae , are very rich , and from thence is brought abundance of costly Spices , and some other rich Merchandize ; yea , and Gold too .

There were also some other Ilands descryed by Magellanus himselfe , which he called * * Insulas infortunatas . Insulas infortunatas , as being of quality contrary to the Canaries , which are tearmed the fortunate Islands : for when hee passing thorow the South Sea , and meaning to come to the Moluccoes ( where hee was slaine ) did land in these Ilands , thinking there to have furnished himself with victuals , and fresh water , hee found the whole places to be barren , and not inhabited .

Of the Countreys that lie about the two Poles .

HAving laid downe in some measure the description of the olde known World , Asia , Africa , and Europe , with the Islands adjoyning unto them : and also of America , which by some hath the title of New-found-world : it shall not be amisse briefly to say something of a fift and sixt part of the Earth : the one lying neer the South Pole , and the other neer the North : which are places that in former times were not known , nor thought of .

When Magellanus was come downe to the Southerne end of Peru , he found on the further side of the Straits a maine and huge land lying towards the South-Pole , which some of his name called since * * Regio Magellanica . Regio Magellanica , and that so much the rather , because he touched upon it againe before he came to the Moluccoes .

Since his time , the Portugales travelling towards Calecut , and the East - Indies , there have some of them bin driven by tempest so far ; as to that which many now call the South Continent ; and so divers of sundry Nations , have there by occasion touched upon it .

It is found therefore by experience , for to goe along all the degrees of longitude , and as in some places , it is certainely discovered to come up so high towards the North , as to the Tropicke of Capricorne , so it is conjectured , that towards the South it goeth as farre as to the Pole . The ground whereof is , that never any man did perceive the Sea did passe thorow any part thereof : nay , there is not any great River which hath yet beene described to come out of it into the Ocean : whereupon it is concluded , that since somewhat must fill up the Globe of the Earth from the first appearing of this land unto the very Pole , and that cannot be any Sea , unlesse it should be such a one as hath no entercourse with the Ocean ( which to imagine is uncertaine ) therefore it is supposed that it commeth whole out into the Land to the Antarticke Pole : which if it should be granted , it must needs be acknowledged withall that this space of Earth is so huge , as that it equalleth in greatnesse not only Asia , Europe , and Africa , but almost America , being joyned unto them .

Things memorable in this Countrey are yet reported to be very few ; only in the East part of it over against the Moluccoes , some have written that there bee very waste countries and wildernesses ; but we find not so much as mention whether any do inhabit there or no. And over against the promontory of Africke , which is called Caput bonae spei , there is a Countrey which the Portugals called * * Psittacorum Regio . Psittacorum regio , because of the abundant store of Parrots which they found there .

Neere to the Magellane straits , in this South part of the world , is that land the Spaniards call Terra del fuego : * * Terra del fuego . those also which have touch'd at it in other places , have given to some parts of it these names , Boach , Eucach , & Maletur , but we have no perfect description of it , nor any knowledge how or by whom it is inhabited .

* * A description of the people . About this place the said Portugals did at one time saile along for the space of 2000. Miles , and yet found no end of the land . And in this place , they reported that they saw inhabitants , which were very faire and fat people , and did goe naked : which is the more to be observed , because we scant read in any writer , that there hath bin seen any people at all upon the South-coast .

More towards the East not far from the Moluccoes , there is one part of this countrey , as some suppose , although some doubt whether that be an Iland or no , which commeth up so high towards the north , as the very Aequinoctial line , and this is commonly called * * Nova Guinea . Nova Guinea , because it lieth in the same climate , and is of no other temperature then Guinea in Africke is .

I have heard a great Mathematician in England , finde fault both with Ortelius and Mercat●r , and all our late Makers of Maps , because in describing this Continent , they make no mention of any Cities , Kingdomes , or Common-wealths which are seated and placed there : whereof he seemed in confidence of words to avouch , that there be a great many , and that it is as good a Countrey as almost any in the world : Note . But the arguments why he gathered it to be so he did not deliver ; and yet notwithstanding it may be most probably conjectured , that the Creator of the world would not have framed so huge a masse of Earth , but that hee would in his wisdome appoint some reasonable creatures to have their habitation there .

Concerning those places which may be supposed to lie neere unto the Northerne Pole , there hath in times past something been written , which for the particularity thereof might carry some shew of truth , if it be not throughly looked into . It is therefore by an olde tradition delivered , and by some written also , that there was a Fryer of Oxenford , who took on him to travaile , into those parts , which are under the very Pole ; which he did partly by Negromancie ( wherein hee was much skilled ) and partly againe by taking advantage of the frozen times , by meanes whereof he might travell upon the Ice even so as himselfe pleased : It is said therefore of him , that he was directly under the Pole , and that there he found a very huge and blacke Rocke , which is commonly called . * * Nigra Rupes . Nigra Rupes , and that the said Rock being divers miles in circuit , is compassed round about with the Sea , which Sea being the bredth of some miles over , doth runne out into the more large Ocean by foure severall currents , which is as much to say , as that a good pretty way distant from the Nigra Rupes , there are foure severall Lands of reasonable quantitie : and being situated round about the Rocke , although with some good distance , are severed each from other by the Sea-running betweene them , and making them all foure to be Ilands almost of equall bignesse . But there is no certaintie of this report , and therefore our best Mathematicians in this latter age have omitted it .

Our travellers of later years have adventured so farre , to their great danger , in those cold and frozen Countries , that they have descryed * * Groin-Land . Groin Land ; which lieth as far or beyond the circle Artick , but whether it goe so farre out as unto the Pole , they cannot say : which is also to bee affirmed of the Northerne parts of America , called by some Estote-land ; for the opening wherof our English-men have taken great paines , as may easily appeare by the new Globes and Maps , in which all the Capes , Sounds and Furlongs , are called by English names . Their purpose was in attempting this voyage , to have found out a passage to China , & Cathaio , by the north parts of America : but by the snowes which fell in August and September , as also by the incredible Ice there , after many hazards of their lives , they were forced to returne , not knowing whether there bee any current of the Sea , that might leade to the East - Indies , or how farre the Land doth reach Northward .

In like sort , some of our English Merchants to their great charges , set forth Fleets to descry the Seas towards the East , yet going by the North , and there have found many unknowne Countries , as * * Nova Zembla . Nova Zembla , * * Sir Hugh Willoughbies Land . Sir Hugh Willoughbies Land , and other more : but of certaine what is very neere unto the Pole , they could never finde . They have also so far prevailed , as to reach one halfe of the way towards Cathaio by the North , going East-wards : insomuch that by the river Ob , and by the Bay of Saint Nicholas , they bring the Merchandize downeward into Russia : But whether the Sea doe goe thorow out even to the farthest Easterne parts ; or whether some great Promontory doe stretch out of the maine Continent unto the very Pole , they cannot yet attaine to know . These things therefore must be left uncertaine , to further discoveries in future ages .