VVorkes of armorie deuyded into three bookes, entituled, the concordes of armorie, the armorie of honor, and of coates and creastes, collected and gathered by Iohn Bossewell Gentleman. Bossewell, John, heraldic writer. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A16477 of text S106250 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 3393). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 521 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 172 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2017 A16477 STC 3393 ESTC S106250 99841968 99841968 6591 2240938771

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Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A16477) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 6591) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 282:09) VVorkes of armorie deuyded into three bookes, entituled, the concordes of armorie, the armorie of honor, and of coates and creastes, collected and gathered by Iohn Bossewell Gentleman. Bossewell, John, heraldic writer. Legh, Gerard, d. 1563. Accedens of armory. [4], 136; 30 leaves : ill. In ædibus Richardi Totelli, [London] : Anno domini. 1572. Cum priuilegio ad imprimendum solum. "The concordes of armorie" is an abridgement of: Legh, Gerard. The accedens of armory. "The thirde boke entituled of cotes & crestes" has separate foliation and register. Reproduction of the original in the Henry E. Huntington Library and Art Gallery. eng Heraldry -- Great Britain -- Early works to 1800. eebo no VVorkes of armorie, deuyded into three bookes, entituled, the concordes of armorie, the armorie of honor, and of coates and creastes, collec Bossewell, John, heraldic writer. 1572 183 62232 83 0 0 0 0 0 13.34 C The rate of 13.34 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the C category of texts with between 10 and 35 defects per 10,000 words. 2003-05 Assigned for keying and markup 2003-06 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2003-07 Sampled and proofread 2003-07 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-08 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

Workes of Armorie , deuyded into three bookes , entituled , the Concordes of Armorie , the Armorie of Honor , and of Coates and Creastes , collected and gathered by Iohn Bossewell Gentleman .

In aedibus Richardi Totelli .

Anno domini . 1572.

Cum priuilegio ad imprimendum solum

To the right honorable and his singuler good lorde , Sir William Cecil Baron of Burghleigh , Knight of the moste noble order of the Garter , Lorde highe Treasorer of Englande , master of the courtes of wardes and Liueries , Chauncellour of the Uniuersitie of Cambridge , and one of the Queenes Maiesties priuie Counsaile , Iohn Bossewel wisheth long healthe with encrease of honor .

RIght honorable , and my singuler good Lorde , I haue marueled vpon occasion , of late , that amonge the numbers of bookes , in their seueral kyndes , not onely by their auctors diligently deuised , but surely by the printers of these dais , for the most part procured , and to theire exceeding great charges , faythfullye & exactlye published : I finde so fewe , that I coulde almoste haue saide none , to haue written in our natiue tongue , of the science and skill of Armory . Truely in my oppinion , a very fruitefull necessary , and honorable argument , but might I deeme , or were it rashnesse , as Tullye in his Tusculans , in the comparison betweene the Romains & Grecians , which might excede other , or be more auncient in knowledge , sayth of such , as of them lay neglecte , Honos alit artes omnesque incendunt' ad studia gloria , Surely not vnlike , but as in al other things , so in science , what auayleth seruice , where soueraigntie is neglected , what actiuitie where men lie downe to sleepe , with sloth : what loue , what frendship , where no man buildes on fayth or credyt , so takè honor from lawe , rewarde from Phificke , admiration from Mathematicalls , humilitie and zeale , from heauenly science , and who sets his sonne to schoole for them : no doubt Tully saide ful wisely , keepe backe rewarde , and learning adew . Yet somme there are , that feede not altogether of this humor , and they rake together the fewe sparcles of knowledge hyd , and almoste dead in the ashes of obliuion , and eyther them selfes builde a fyer therof , or geeue occasion to others , such one was of late specially in this kind of Herehaultry , a very fruteful and worthy writer master Gerard Leigh , and suche do I offer my self at this present meaning to adde somewhat farther , or geeue occasion to others , not drawen by hope of reward , which rather would haue kept me back , but honor of the science , loue of my countrey , and especially my bounden and duitifull estimacion of your honorable fauor : wherunto as I do with reuerence offer and dedicate thys simple thing ( scarce worthe the reading in respect of the handeling , yet for the substance , not to be altogether neglected ) so I most humbly beseech your honor to accept the same , and bee Patron thereof : wherby you shal not onely staye , and rere vp this declining knowledge , to your great renowme , but bind me for euer , by al maner of duities , and specially to pray for your honorable estate , long to continue in fauor with God , credyt with youre soueraigne , honour wyth your countrie , fidelitye wyth your Peeres , and loue towardes Armorye .

Cilenus censure of the aucthor , in his high court of Herehaultry . A Court ther stands twixt heauen & erth , al gorgeous to behold of royal state , in second spheare , a hugie building olde , Portcolized & bard with bolts , of gold resplendant bright , of glistering gemmes , through Pallas power , bedazeling eche that no man may com in except he haue the perfit skil , ( mans sight of Herehauts art , and climbed hath , Parnassus sacred hill . Within this stately court , like number roomes are founde , like number flags , like number armes , as realmes vpon the ground . About the walls more wonderous work , then framd by mortal hand , eche Herehauts liuely counterfet , in seemely sort doth stand . within these seuerd romes , through wals , ibuilt of Christal cleare Eche thing that longs to Herehauts art , doth perfectly appeare . There leger bookes , of auncient gestes , ywrit by Pallas hand , there campinges , mornings , musterings , there pedegrees do stand . There cumbats fierce , there sūmōs bold , there triumphs passing braue of trowning kings , of dubbing knights , the orders ther they haue . Both single coates , and martialed of eche renowmed wight , with visitacions , which allottes to ech desert his right . Reuersed coates ( not hidden there ) bewray disloyall deedes , Caparisons ther fixed hang , and bardings strong of steedes . With armors fully furnished , and gauntlets vnredemd , suche vncouth sights , eche office holdes , as cannot be estemde . At vpper ende of al this court , as seuerd from the rest . with flaunting Penon standes a house , as famous as the best . Where portraied are the English armes , from which dependeth braue . a golden garter in the whiche , a golden George they haue . Unto this place assembled was , eche wight within this hall , and did admire a golden booke , whiche fell amongst them all . Blown vp by blast of flying fame , which tooke her tromp in hand , of burnisht golde , whereto she plyde , her lips as she dyd stand in Brutus realme , whereon when they a litle space had pride , abashed at the hidden skill , which in that woorke they spide They stampt , they starde , they fret , they fumde , & al in one they ioind vpon the aucthor to complaine , because he had purloind Their secresies : when sodainly from highest regall throne was drawne a trauerse ritche , wherwith they whusted euery one . Within this , farre more stately court , are rich acheuemēts braue and none but Gods , or fellow mates to gods as there may haue there armes●there both Alcides spoiles & Iason● fleese remaynde , with Gorgons hedd and Perseus prayse , & whoe so earst had gaynd A noble name eternizd was , for there did splendant shine the auncient Pegasus , whiche earst Minerua dame diuine To inner Temples martyall gaue , to whose redoubted grace , in honor Ioue , in prowes Mars , in wyt her selfe geues place ▪ No god ne wight , of worthy fame , but hath purtraied there , the field , the shield , the coat , the crest , which he of right should beare . Their shiuered shafts , and broken bow , beres Ioue subdued in field , and Mars that sind with Venus once , his dreadful geuly shield . hath chargde with furs , a note whereby to knowe a lechers life , Thiestes there a difference hath , which lay with brothers wife . Eche vice detected there , by blazons arte , at point deuise , and all the walles with imagery , were grauen storie wise . The siege of Thebes , the fall of Troy , in beaten massie golde , dan Vulcane hath set out at large , full geazon to beholde . Eche thing that hapt vntill this day , did plainly there appeare , Thenthronizing of Ioue , and eake Saturnus mornful cheare that was exilde , & how the gods bewailde that dismoale day , when Mars and Venus wounded were , by Diomede in fraye . And Phebus wayling 〈◊〉 , and pomp of triumphs proude , for daunt of Giatm●s sterne , which fall of mightie Ioue had vowde . All this engrauen was , in precious stones of proudest price , Ech thing set out in colours due , to thinke a quaint deuice . In midst whereof , Cilenus sits , instalde in grauest sort , In stately chaire of A●athist which vertues fower support . U●cegerent god , in Palla●e place , which moude with tumult rare , the cause of sturre in English house bad Gerard Leygh declare . O god ( qd he ) in humblest wise , right now blown vp by Fame , behold a booke which breedes these broiles , pervse I pray the same . He takes the booke , & as about he cast his glauncing eye , beholding winged Pegasus , by chaunce he doth espie A wight in snow white gown , & crownd with braunch of laurel tree , that Allen Sutton had to name , come Sutton come sayth hee Which were not in thy countrey known , as thou deseruedst of late , whose snow bright skil , by snow procurde : the Fates to hast thy fate Yet mauger Deathe thou here shalt liue , eternized for aye , do reade this woorke that seemes so strange , this noueltie display . And as he reades , they all admire , but moste admireth he , here Ferond ▪ sayes , he hittes my grace , loe here he steales from me . Then A●ciate lyketh Boswels vayne , but laste he doth deface , his worke , for why , loe here sayeth he , he takes from me my grace . Then Vpton blames him for the like , then Plin●e ginns to speake , and euerie one in fine on him , doth thus his anger wreake . When Maiestie cries whus●e : and sad Cilenus thus dothe saye , tush hold your peace , content your selues , if wel the case you way , iust cause haue you to prayse the man , that aydes your art so wel , in blazon , and in natures skill , who doth so muche excell . By whom you liue , more cause haue I , and Pallas to complayne , which feare least Ioue , some other impe , hath fostred in his brayne . Or that some other Maia hath brought forth some other sonne , Surpassing Pallas and my selfe , and then we are vndoone . Which hath conspirde in spight of vs , and flowring Greece to frame , In Brytayne soyle a Helicon from whence this Aucthor came . Which sayde : he flies to skies , hereof to take aduice , The court brake vp , they claude their eares , & parted with a trice . Nicolas Roscarrocke .
The names of the aucthors aswell Latines as others , out of the whiche these workes are chiefelye collected and amplified . Latine aucthors . Alciatus Emblem . Aristoteles de animalibus Aulus Gellius Noc. Attic. Bartho . de propri . rerum Bartholus de insigniis Boccatius Carion Caelius antia . lectionum . Cicero Diescorides Diodorus Siculus . Erasmus . Epius de Ro. gestis . Franciscus Patritius . Gaguinus super Franc. ges . Herodot . Horatius . Isidorus Etymolog . Iustinus Leonicus de varia histor. Lucan . Mantuan . Buco. Nauclerus Ouidius . Plinius natural . hist. Pollidorus Angl. hist. Plutarch . vitis . Quintus Curtius . Rauisius tex . Natu. his . Sebast. Munsterus . Theophrastus de plantis . Vegeseus de re militari . Frenche aucthors . Frossard . Gabriell Simeon Iehan le Fe●on . Paradin . Englishe writers . G. Chaucer . Io. Gower . S. Tho. Eliot . Io. Lidgate . D. Wilson Gerard Leigh . Rychard Grafton . Io. Maplet .

And out of diuers other auncient writers , whose names are not certainly knowne .

Facessat Calumnia .
The Concordes of Armorie , with the description of the foure Cardinall vertues , and other preceptes and rules , necessarie to be known of all those , which would accompt them selues to come of gentle blood .

BEfore I will begynne to blaze or descriue anye parte of Armes , or the termes therunto appertaynynge , it shal bee showed , what these woordes , Arma , or Insignia ( being latyne wordes ) do signify . Arma. Insignia . Arma , ( as Isidore sayeth ) generaliter omnium rerum instrumenta sunt . And Arma , be not taken onely for the instrumentes of all maner of craftes , but also for harneys , and weapon , also Standerdes and Banners , some tyme Battles . Heraulte . In all whiche thinges the Heraultes , especially before others , haue the secrette intelligence , and vnderstandyng thereof : as also of seuerall languages , moste meete for theire calling , in suche hyghe seruice . Insignia , are signes , & tokens of honor , which commonly of Heraultes be called Armes , Bage . or Badges of gentlemen . They bee also called Symbola heroica .i. signes , Symbola Heroica . prices , or markes appertainyng to noblenesse : and whereby euery estate , or man of great aucthoritie is knowen : the noble , from the ignoble , the gentle from the vngentle : and the free man , from the bond . And these Armes or Ensignes ( as diuerse aucthours do affirme ) do occupy 9. 9. sondrie ●ieldes . sundry feldes , of the which 7. of them be termed colours , & two Mettalles , as ensue .

Mettalles . 2. Golde , & terme them Or & Siluer . terme them Argent . Colours . 7. Red. terme Gules . Blue . terme Azure . Blacke . terme Sable . Greene . . terme Vert. Uiolet . terme Purpure . Orenge Tawney & terme Tenne & Murrey . terme Sanguine .

9 Planettes , and Starres , which are compared or lykened vnto the sayde Metalles and Colours , and are vsed in Blazon .

Planettes . The Sunne is compared to Golde . The Moone . is compared to Siluer . Mars is compared to Gules . Iupiter is compared to Azure . Saturne is compared to Sable . Venus is compared to Verte . Mercurie is compared to Purpure . Starres . the Dragons head , is compared to Tenne . the Dragons taile . is compared to Sanguine

Precious stones . 9. 9 Precious stones , of dyuers colours and vertues which the Herehautes do vse in Blazon , for & in the name of the 9. colours in Armes , and are thus likened . videlicet .

Precious stones 9. The Topace . 1 to Golde . 1. The Pearle . 2 to Siluer . 2. The Rubye . 3 to Gules . 3. The Saphire . 4 to Azure . 4. The Diamonde . 5 to Sable . 5. The Emeraude . 6 to Verte . 6. The Amatiste . 7 to Purpure . 7. The Iacinthe . 8 to Tenne . 8. The Sardonix . 9 to Sanguine . 9.

THE natures , operations , and vertues of the sayde Planettes , Starres , and precious Stones , may partlye be seen and redd in the booke of late made by Master Gerarde Legh , entytuled , The Accidence of Armorye . Yet I wishe the reader hereof , diligently to note and vnderstand , what is written of the saide 9. precious Stones , by Isidore , Isidore . in his 16. boke Ethimologiarum . Cap. 7.8.9.10 . & 13. which I haue drawne out of the same Author , as he writt them in Latine , for that no person which would couet to haue the name of a gentleman , ought to be altogether ignorant in the same tongue .

De praedictis 9. gemmis .

TOpazion , The Topace . ex virenti genere est omnique colore resplendens , in uenta primum in Arabiae insula , in qua Trogloditae praedones fame et tempestate fessi , cum herbarum radices effoderent , eruerunt . Quae insula postea quaesita , nebulis cooperta , tandem a nauigantibus inuenta est . Sed ob hoc locus & gemma nomen ex causa accepit . Nam Topazin Trogloditarum lingua , significationem habet quaerendi . Est autem amplissima gemmarum : eadem sola nobilium limam sentit . Plinie saieth , that this Gemme is of grassie colour , although that in Germanie , it is founde like to Golde : and otherwhere , of that bygnes and quantitie , that Philadelphus is saide to haue framed thereof and made an Image in length of foure Cubites .

MArgarita prima candidarum gemmarum , quam inde Margaritam aiunt vocatam , qd in conculis marinis hoc genus lapidum inueniatur . Inest enim in carne Cochleae calculus natus , sicut in carne Ostrcae praeciosissima Margarita reperiri dicatur : vel sicut in cerebro piscis lapillus . Gignitur autem de celesti rore , quem certo anni tempore concule hauriunt . Ex quibus Margaritis quaedam Vniones vocantur , The Pearle Vnions . aptum nomen habentes , qd tantum vnus , nunquam duo vel plures simul reperiantur . Meliores autem candidae Margaritae , quàm que flauescunt . Illas enim aut iu●entus , aut matutini roris conceptio reddit candidas : has senectus , vel vespertinus aer gignit obscuras . Pearles , were the onely meate , wherewith the Iewes liued long , hauinge nothing els to eate , when the Citie of Ierusalem was besieged by Tytus , as witnesseth Iosephus .

OMnium ardentium gemmarum principatum Carbunculus habet . Carbunculus autem dictus ꝙ sit ignitus vt carbo , cuius fulgor nec nocte vincitur . The Carbun●le , or Rubye . Lucet enim in tenebris adeo vt flammas ad oculos vibret . Genera eius duodecim , sed prestantiores qui videntur fulgere , & velut ignem effundere . Carbunculus autem Grece Anthrax dicitur . The Carbuncle , so warreth with the eye sight , that it sheweth manyfolde reflexions . It is founde in Libia .

The Saphyre . THe Saphire , is a Gemme skye coloured or Blewe , like to the Skye in the most faire wether . Amongest all the kyndes of Gemmes , it is one of the noblest and most royall , and therefore mete to be worne onely vpon Kynges and Princes fyngers . Nothing in the worlde doth more recreate or delight the eyes then the Smaradge , & Saphire doe . It is meruelous effectuous agaynste all venyme . Wherfore , yf thou put a Spider into a Boxe , it beyng shutt , & vpon the mouth therof thou layest the true Saphire , and do kepe the Spider within the same but a very short tyme , the Spider beyng vanquished and ouercome by the vertue thereof , dyeth sodenly . Isidore saieth , qd Saphirus caeruleus est cum purpura , habens pulueres aureos sparsos : optimus apud Medos , nusquam tamen perlucidus . It is also rekned by Isidore , to be one of the kyndes of the Amathistes . Albertus Magnus sayeth , that he proued it twise , that with the onely touchyng of this precious Stone , the partie so diseased , hath bene ridde of the greuous sore the Carboncle . The Saphire for his soueraignetie , is called of the Lapidarie , the Gemme of Gemmes . In olde tyme it was consecrated onely to Apollo .

ADamus Indicus , The Diamond . lapis paruus & indecorus , ferrugineum habens colorem & splendorem Crystalli . Nunquam autem vltra magnitudinem nuclei avellanae repertus . Hic nulli cedit materie : nec ferro quidem nec igni , nec vnquam incalescit : vnde et nomen Greca interpretatione , ind●mita vis accepit . Sed dum sit inuictus ferri , ignisque centemptor , Hircino rumpitur sanguine , recenti & calido maceratur , sicque multis ictibus ferri perfringitur . Cuius fragmentis , sculptores , pro gemmis insigniendis perforandisque vtuntur . Hic autem dissidet cum Magnete lapide , intantum vt iuxta positus ferrum , non patiatur abstrahi Magneti : aut si admotus Magnes comprehenderit , rapiat atque auferat : fertur quoque in Electri similitudine venena deprehendere , metus vanos depellere , maleficis resistere artibus . Diascorides sayth , that it is called the Stone of reconciliacion and loue : for ( sayth he ) That woman that hath withdrawne her loue from her husbande , by this , is brought to loue him anewe : yea it goeth further : for it is saide to giue proofe , whether she be chaste or no. For if she be say they , she shall whilest she is in sleape embrace her husbande , through the workyng of this Stone , yf not , she shall flye , and go backe from him . Sir Thomas Eliot in his Dictionarie , saith , that Adamas is the Diomonde , and that Magnes the lode Stone , that hath vertue to drawe Iron vnto hym , is of some vnproperlye called the Adamant .

OMnium gemmarum virentium Smaragdus principatum habet . The Smaragde , or Emeraude . Cui veteres tertiam post Margaritas & Vniones tribuunt dignitatem . Smaragdus a nimia viriditate dicitur . Omne enim satis viride Smaragdum dicitur . Nullis enim gemmis vel herbis maior quàm huic austeritas est . Nam herbas virentes frondesque exuperat , inficiens circa se viriditate repercussum aerem . Sculpentibns quoque gemmas nulla gratior oculorum refectio est . Cuius corpus si extentum fuerit sicut speculum , it a imagines reddit . Quippe Nero Cesar gladiatorum pugnas in Sma●ragdo spectabat . The Smaradge passeth both the leafe and boughe of anye tree or plante , his colour is so freshe and greene , and in this poyncte triumpheth alone , neyther ys the Sunne by his sunne Beames any lett or hynderance to this his shewe . There is no greater refection to the eyes , than the sight of this excellent Gemme .

the Amatiste INter purpureas gemmas principatum Amathistus Indicus tenet . Amathistus purpureus est : permixto violaceo colore : & quasi rosae nitor , & leniter quasdam stammulas fundens . The Amathiste his force or vertue auayleth agaynst dronkennesse , it keepeth a man wakyng , and dryueth awaye ill thoughtes , and sharpeneth the vnderstanding also .

the Iacynthe . HIacynthus , ex nominis sui flore vocatur . Hic in Ethiopia inuenitur : ceruleum colorem habens : optimus qui nec rarus est , nec densitate obtusus , sed ex vtroque temperamento lucens purpuraque refulgens : hic autem non rutilat aequaliter , sed cum facie caeli mutatur . Sereno enim perspicuus est atque gratus : nubilo coram oculis euanescit atque marcescit . In os missus frigidus est : in sculpturis durissimus , nec tamen inuictus . Nam Adamante scribitur & signatur . The Iacinth is taken to be medecinable , and to giue vigor or strength to the Lyms , to encrease the Synewes , and to prouoke quiet & sound sleape .

the Sardonix SArdonix appellata ꝙ habeat in se permixtum candorem in similitudinem vnguis humanae . Graeci enim vnguem Onycem dicunt . Hanc India vel Arabia gignit . The Sardonix saieth Isidore also is three coloured , black about the botom , white in the middest , and redd at the toppe . Hec sola in signando nihil cerae avellit . The Lapidarie sayeth , it is bredd & borne of the Sardye , which is the father to him , & Onyx . Sardonyx ex duum nominum societate vocata est . Est enim ex Onycis candore & Sardo . In workyng it maketh a man lowlye , & shamefaste in his doinges .

Of the 9. diuerse coulours , planettes , and precious stones before rehearced , which be assigned for the fielde of Cote armoure . There be moste vsually vsed in the blazon of oure English ensignes , but 6. videlicet .

Or , and for mettalles . Argent . for mettalles . Gules . for Colours . Azure . for Colours . Sable . for Colours . Verte . for Colours .

Purpure , may bee added to make the 5. coloure , but it is rare in vse with vs . Of the 9. precious stones aforesaide , these are frequented , and most ennoblish blazon .

The Topaze . Pearle . Rubye . Saphire . vj. Diamonde . vj. Emeraude . vj.

And for Purpure , the Amatiste obteineth of stones , his place also to make the seuenth .

These Planettes likewise maye compare with the others for theire ryghte , in the ordre of Blazon . videlicet .

the Sunne . the Moone . Mars . Iupiter . Saturne . vij . Uenus . vij . Mercurie . vij .
Degrees of Rulers .

Gentleman . Esquyre . Knyght . Baron . Lorde . Earle . Marques . Duke , and Prynce .

To theise degrees aforesayde , Cardinall Vertues . no man can worthely atteine , but by the fower Cardinall vertues , whiche are , Prudence , Iustice , Fortitude , and Temperance . For the knowledge whereof , and what they bee , lett euery gentleman diligently reade ouer , the three bookes of Tully hys offices : and in especially the firste booke , wherein hee moste excellently ( as the father of all eloquence ) describeth the sayde fower vertues , and the braunches that spryng oute of the same . Notwithstandyng I shal briefely declare the definition and efficacie thereof , as the gentle reader maye partely bee satisfied , at the first sighte .

Iustice what it is . Iustice is a vertue , gathered by longe space , geuing euery one hys owne , mindyng in all things , the common profite of our Countrey , whereunto man is moste bounde , & oweth hys full obedience . The auncient Ciuilians saye , Iustice is a will perpetuall and constante , which geeueth to euerye man hys ryghte . In that it is named constante , it importeth Fortitude : In discerning what is right or wronge , Prudence is required . And to proporcion the sentence or iudgement in an equalitie , belongeth to Temperance . All these together conglutinate and effectually executed , maketh a perfecte definition of Iustice. Offic. lib. 1. And Tully differethe not moche from the same definition of Iustice , where hee saiethe , it is alwayes occupied , eyther in preseruinge the felowship of men , geeuing vnto euery bodie that which is hys owne , The excellency of Iustice . or keping a faythfulnes in contractes . He saieth also , that the foundacion of perpetual prayse and renome , is Iustice , without the which nothing may bee commendable : whiche sentence is verefied by daily experience . For be a man neuer so gentle , bounteous , valiante , or liberal , bee hee neuer so wise , familiar , or courtaise , yf hee bee once sene to exercise Iniustice , or to do wrong , it is then well noted , and often remembred : yea , all vertues ( where Iustice faileth ) lacke theire commendation . I harde of late , as I traueled by the waye , a gentelman praysed for sundry vertues which were in hym , as that he was gentle and meke , pleasaunt and faire in wordes , wise , wel learned , modeste , and sobre : but I harde no remembrance made of hys Iustice , For immediately one present in the company reported hym to be an vsurer , a person deceiptfull , couetous , an oppressor of the poore , and no keper of hospitalitye , yet hauinge fower or fiue fermes in hys handes and more , that hee was a decayer of houses of husbāderie , a rerer of retes , & a cruel taker of fynes . These vices did deface all hys other vertues : Offic. 2. for as Tullye saith , it is the parte of Iustice to offre men no violence , to vse them sobrely and skilfully with whom we be conuersante , not to be tempted with money , but to study by all meanes to profite euery man . Iustice despiseth , and noughte regardeth those thinges , whereunto most men enkendeled with gredynes be hated . Iustitia , est iniustitie prinatio . It is iuste also in euery matter of berganyng , biyng , selling , hyring , or lettyng : true in euery couenante , bergayne or promise , playne and simple in all dealynge : And that simplicitye is proprely Iustice . And where any man of a couetous or malicious mynde , will digresse purposely from that simplicitie , taking aduantage of a sentence or worde , which might bee ambiguous or doubtefull , or in some thyng eyther superfluous or lackynge in the bergayne or promise , where he certainely knoweth the truth to bee otherwise , thys in my opinion is damnable fraude , beyng as playne against iustice , as it were enforced by violence : for Iustice will helpe all men , Offic. lib. 3. and wittingly offende none . She is of all vertues the Ladie and Queene : keping the sounde and expresse forme of the lawe : hating & abhorring all stealinge , auoutrie , poysonyng , falsheade , disceyt , briberye , gyftes , rewardes , couetousnes , false witnes , oppression , murder , extorcion , and periurie . The whiche vices and crymes , by no meanes maye bee ioyned to the perfecte vertue named Iustice , which is the cheefe of all vertues more wondreful than the bright starre Hesperus & Lucifer . And here at this tyme I leaue to speke anye more of that most Royall and necessarie vertue , called Iustice .

Finally to bee shorte , that Manlynes is worthie to bee praysed , which woorketh by the strength of the mynde , & not of the bodie : and yet not to faynte in corage , but to be constante , not fearing the roughe stormes of any aduersitie , neyther the sharpe brontes of the warres , or the crueltie of bitter death .

And like as an excellent Phisicion , cureth most dangerous diseases , and deadely woundes : so doth a man that is valiant , aduaunce hymselfe as inuincible , in thinges that do seeme most terrible , not vnaduisedly , and as it were in a beastely rage , but of a gentle courage , and with premeditacion , either by victorie , or by death wynning honor & perpetual memorie , the iuste rewarde of theire vertue . For as Curtius sayeth : Effugit mortem , quisquis contempserit , timidissimum quenque consequitur . Q. Curtius ▪ lib. 4. Whosoeuer contempneth death , escapeth death , and death ouertaketh such , as do flye from death . Vir. A man is called in Latyne Vir , whereof saieth Tully , vertue is named . And the most propre vertue belongyng to a man , is Fortitude , whereof bee twoo excellent propreties , that is to saye , the contempte of deathe , and of grefe . Therfore he playnly declareth afterward , that verye fortitude is , little to esteme all humayne thinges , not to regard death , and to thinke all labours and paynes tollerable .

Plotinus . Plotinus the Philosopher sayeth , that the propertie and office of Temperance , is to couet nothing , which may be repented , also not to excede the boundes of Mediocritie , and to keepe desire vnder the yoke of reason .

He that practiseth this vertue is called a temperat man , and he that doth the contrary thereto , is named intemperate : betwene whome and a person incontinent , Aristotle maketh this diuersitie , that he is intemperate , whiche by hys own election is ledde , supposing the pleasure that ys present , shoulde alway be folowed : But the person incontinent supposeth not so , and yet he notwythstandynge , doth folow it .

The temperate man delyteth in nothynge contrarye to reason , and will do nothing for bodely pleasure , whyche shall stande agaynst reason . Temperance , as a sadde and discrete matrone and reuerent gouernesse , awayteth diligently , that in no wise incontinencie or concupisence haue any preheminence in the soule of man . Therefore as intemperance ( being a vice moste vnpure , stynkynge and filthie ) is of all estates and degrees , and in all ages , to be eschued , auoyded , and abhorred : So Temperance , at all tymes and in all thynges , is to be folowed , embraced , and loued , whych will cause vs to do nothyng for bodely pleasure , that shal be hurtfull or contrary to the health . It will rule all our appetites , and corrupt desires , causinge vs to desyre the thinges which we ought to desyre , and as we ought to desire , and when we ought to desyre . Temperance ( as Patricius sayth ) helpeth much , Patricius . li. 3 de Iusti. re . pub . and so much shyneth in all our doynges , Vt earum rerum moderatrix atque auriga esse videatur . Hec est quae tam diuturna laude extulit sententiam illam Solonis , quae praecipit . Ne quid nimis .

Thus I haue briefely spoken of the saide foure Cardinall vertues , Prudence , Iustice , Fortitude , and Temperance , ( which as the same Patricius affirmeth in his 5 Booke de Institutione reipub . ) are as foure sisters , Mutuis nexibus colligatae . They are neuer seperated : One of them without another cannot be perfecte : sed manta omnino & inchoata esse videtur . Nam Fortitudo sine Prudentia temeritas est . Prudentia sine Iustitia calliditas est , & mala quaedam malitia . Temperantia sine Fortitudine ignauia est . Iustitia autem sine Temperantia crudelitas est . Vnde illud Ennij poetae , Summum ius summa iniuria est . Therefore these foure vertues do agree together , as it were in a swete songe , and consonant armonye , and are principally and especially to bee delyted , and inwardely embraced of all noble gentlemen , since that without them , they can not bee worthie to haue the tytle , or name of gentelmen , neither can they worthely beare the ensignes , or armes of theire auncient progenitours , without they specially bee endowed and adorned with these foresayde vertues , called Cardinales : whiche are so named , for that they bee cheefe or principall of all other vertues : for out of them as out of a founteine , all other vertues haue theire springing , flowing , & proceding .

Of Cheualrye , the vertuous preceptes .

FIrste , gyue due reuerence and seruice vnto almighty god , with all faythfulnes . Haue pitie on the poore . Bee iuste in all thy promises . Bee gracious and fauourable to them whiche are captiue . Kepe clennes of thy bodye and person . Kepe moderate dyete . Bee not slouthfull in the warres , but stronge and valiaunt , with desire to auenge thy princes quarrell , geuing alwayes thankes to god for the victorie . Bee wise in leading the battaile , & prudent in thy fighting . Knowe the order of the fielde , & bee perfecte therein . Studie well also to rule and gouerne the charge committed vnto the. Auoyde not from the fielde , ne do thou anye thyng to shame thy cote armoure . Boste not of thy manhoode . Bee courteous , lowly , and gentle , and also without rebaudrie in thy language . Haue audacitie , but not excessiuely to do such actes , as are not to bee ieoperded . Dreade infamie and reproche . Bee valiaunte , so shall no terrible aduentures resolue the into waylinges or desperations . Wynne honor by deathe for thy countrey , the iuste rewarde of thy vertue . Use reason and honestie , and bee not violente or sturdie mynded .

Preceptes of gentlenes .

BEe not ouer Lordely in thy countenaunce . Bee treatable in language , wyse in answer geuinge , perfect in gouernance , and also cherefull to perfourme thy faythe and promise . Feare God , and obey his Lawes . Dreade to offende thy Soueraigne . Use fewe othes in al thy communication . Knowe thine owne byrth , and beare not thy selfe aboue thine estate . Shewe thy countenance gentle , so shalt thou be beloued : for hautie countenance procureth hatred .

Vices , whiche are repugnant to Generositie , and not to be frequented , and vsed of any , whiche would haue the name of a Gentleman . Videlicet .

Sluggishnesse , boastinge , cowardnesse , swearinge , lecherie , and dronkennesse . Also to reuoke thine owne chalenge . To slea thy prisoner . To flee from thy Soueraignes banner in the fielde , and to tell thy Soueraigne false tales . To be vengeable , and not to be entreated , &c.

Heauenly Preceptes . Videlicet●

To doo right . To haue pleasure in louing kindenesse . To be lowly . Mich. cap. 6. And to walke with God .

Preceptes Heroicall .

Aboue , Preceptes . and before all thinges worship God . Honour thy kinge . Obey the lawes . Be mercifull . Desire honour and glorye for vertue . Be not highe minded . Refraine from fowle language . Perfourme what so euer thou promisest . Ensue the vertues of thy good auncetors

Graces woorthy .

To be meeke in countenance . To haue manly harte in deedes , and therein longe continuance . Not to weene owne witte more excellent then others . Not to scorne , or scoffe at others deuises . That worship is in mercie , pitie , and humilitie . To be lyons in the fielde , and lambes in chamber . Boetius . Eagles at assaultes , and maydens in bowre . Foxes in counsaile , and still in their games . To folowe peace , and loue , where is hate .

Giftes heauenly .

To knowe thy selfe . To abstaine from couetise . Hauinge no wronge , to care for those that are wronged . To keepe close secrete counsaile . To doo nothinge contrary to the Lawe . To take in good worth , aduersitie after prosperitie . Regarde heauenly thinges , for this our Countrie abideth but a while . Continue in pacience . Doo nothing in anger .

Preceptes iusticiarie .

Remember , that God dothe looke alwaie vpon thee . Studie to be learned . Receiue no bribes . Let thy maners agree with thy callinge . Feare to doo euill . Auoide idlenesse . Doo that is iuste . Be no lyer . Myxe not thy power with thy will . Be discrete without spotte of vice , constante , and vncorrupte . Aul. Gell. Nor. Atti. lib. 14. cap. 4. Be not flattered by any meanes Be not intreated againste the obstinate . Auance the truth through the power of Iustice .

Reioisings in Armes .

A Gentleman to be made knighte in the fielde at battaile . For his manhoode to receiue a great rewarde at his Princes handes . To doo valiantly in Chiualrie before his Soueraigne . To be an Embassadour for his wisedome . To shewe prowes , and to doo knightly before Alyantes , in the honour of his Prince . A poore Gentleman to be married to one of highe parentage . To haue thankes for good seruices done to his Soueraigne . To keepe his Cote armour vnshamed in triall thereof . To keepe all pointes of knighthoode , as Gesta Troianorum , doo declare .

Lawe of Armes , whereof it is grounded .

It is to be knowen , that almightie God is the originall authour of honouringe Nobilitie , who , euen in the heauens hathe made a discrepance of his heauenly Spirites , giuinge them seuerall names , as Ensignes of honour . And these heauenly Spirites , when they are sent of God , are called , Angeli , Angels : whiche in the Greeke tongue signifieth , sent. Propterea , quod de coelis ad annuntiandum hominibus mittuntur . And in the Latine tongue , they be interpreted , Nuntij , Messengers , Ab eo quòd Domini voluntatem populis nuntiant . Angelorum autem vocabulum , officij no men est , non naturae : semper enim Spiritus sunt : sed cùm mittuntur , vocantur Angeli . Angeli . Nuntij . Isidorus . And howe many orders be of them , the holy Scriptures doo witnesse . Id est , Angeli , Archangeli , Throni , Dominationes , Principatus , Potestates , virtutes , Cherubin , & Seraphin . And wherefore they be thus called , and distinct , as it were into sundrie orders , and dignities , it maie be fully readde in the seuenth Book of Isidore , which he entituleth , Ethimologiarum , cap. 5. whiche for breuitie I omitte here , for that it dothe not appertaine to the matter , whereof in this place I doo entreate . But this is to be noted ( as I finde in aunciente writers ) that the Lawe of Armes was by the auncient Heraultes grounded vpon these orders of Angelles in heauen , encrowned with the pretious stones , of colours , and vertues diuerse , as in the firste parte of this Book hathe bene declared , with the colours compared vnto them . For as the Angels , precious stones , colours , and Planettes aforesaide are distincte in dignitie , vertue , power , preheminence , and working : So here in earthe men are also distincte , in degrees , offices , gouernance , and power , euery one seruing their heade in their vocation , and callinge .

Sixe sundrie differences in Armes for brethren .
Files with Lambeauxes .
A Cressante .
A Mollet of 5. poyntes .
A Martelet . Differences .
An Anulet ,
A Flowre de Luce.

Note , that if there be any moe then sixe brethren , the deuise , or assignment of further difference , onely appertaineth to the kings at Armes , especially when they visite their seuerall Prouinces : & not to the father of the children , to giue them what difference he list , as some without authoritie doo alledge .

Euery difference oughte to be placed in the moste euidente parte of the Cote armour : Videlicet , in that place , where the same maie soonest be seene , or perceiued .

Seuen signes , or tokens whiche are figured in Armes round , and are blazed properly with seueral termes .
1. Is of golde , and is called a Beausante .
2. Is of siluer , and is called a Plate .
3. Is of Sable , & is termed a Pellet , or an Ogresse .
4. Is of Azure , and is termed an Hurte .
5. Is of Gules , and is called a Torteauxe .
6. Is of Uerte , and is called a Pomeis .
7. Is of Purpre , and is to be termed a Wounde .

These most vsually are found borne in Cotes Armours .

Proper termes for diuerse tokens borne in Armes .

The tokens whiche of many are called Millers pikes , some terme them Shettles , which is the chiefest instrument of the weauer : And the Frenche Heraultes terme them fusilles , Fusilles . Manche . Pheons . videlicet , Spindles : for fusus , or fusum , in Latin is a Spyndle , and so I take them to be termed most properly . Manche maltale , is taken in Armes , to be a sleue , vnshaped , and vnsowed . Pheons , be commonly called , broade arrowe heades , or darte heades .

When the heade of any beaste , or byrde , is , as it were torne of , terme the same to be rassed , or erased : and if it be , as it were , cut of plaine , call it then , Coped .

Dimie , is but when halfe of any beaste is seene in the fielde .

A Cressante in armes , Cressante . is commonly called the halfe moone . But it is the moone in her pryme , or els as wee call it the newe moone .

An Incressante , Incressante . is the moone from the pryme , till after the firste quarter , and yet lacketh of the full .

A Decressante , Decressante . is the moone from the last quarter .

A Pile in armes , Pile . is a thyng that maketh all foundacions vpon vnsure grounde , to bee very firme and sure . Leighe .

And here lerne a Rule . Woordes in Blazon to be noted . There are fower woordes , whereof you maye not name any of them twise in the blazon of one cote armoure , and these bee they .

Nota of , These may not be reherced more then once , in descriuing of anye one cote armoure . Yf they bee , it is of the Heraultes accompted a great faute . And yf one might forbeare , to name none of them it were better , as I haue rede in dyuerse Aucthours . Nota on , These may not be reherced more then once , in descriuing of anye one cote armoure . Yf they bee , it is of the Heraultes accompted a great faute . And yf one might forbeare , to name none of them it were better , as I haue rede in dyuerse Aucthours . Nota and , These may not be reherced more then once , in descriuing of anye one cote armoure . Yf they bee , it is of the Heraultes accompted a great faute . And yf one might forbeare , to name none of them it were better , as I haue rede in dyuerse Aucthours . Nota with These may not be reherced more then once , in descriuing of anye one cote armoure . Yf they bee , it is of the Heraultes accompted a great faute . And yf one might forbeare , to name none of them it were better , as I haue rede in dyuerse Aucthours . Descriue , Displaye , Or blaze , Armes , Termes of Blazon . Ensignes , of honor , worship , & gentree . and Tokens ,
Sundrie wayes to blaze Armes . By mettall and coloures , By planettes , and sterres , By precious stones .

The vse of these three in blazon of armes , are as auncient as from the firste begynning of armes bearing .

Three superlatiues , or degrees in Armes .

Moste ryche , is whan the felde is Or , and the thing that occupieth the fielde , Sable .

Moste faire , is whan the fielde is Argent , and that whiche occupieth the fielde is Sable .

Moste glitteringe , is whan the fielde is Or , & that whiche is conteyned in the same , is Verte .

Poynctes in escocheons .

Dextre poyncte , Sinistre poyncte , Base poyncte , Chiefe poynct , Dextre base poyncte , Sinistre base poynct , The honour poyncte , Fesse poyncte , and the nombrill .

These poynctes may bee learned by experience , yf ye diligently note the sondrie particions vsed in escocheons .

Particions in Escocheons .

Partie per pale , Partie quarterly , Partie per fesse , Partie per bende dextre , Partie per bende sinistre , Partie per Cheuron , Partye per Saltier , Partie per Pyle in poyncte , and partie per Gyron .

Experience shall teache you these particions , takynge hede to the examples thereof , sett forth in the seconde boke of Armorye next folowing .

Honorable Ordinaries

Crosse. The firste , especially is the Crosse. The contente thereof is the fifte parte of the fielde , excepte it bee charged , then it must conteyne the thirde parte .

Cheife . The seconde , is a Cheife , and conteyneth the third parte of the fielde . The Cheife maye bee diminyshed , and then it must bee termed otherwise , Fillet . as a Fillet , the whiche conteyneth the fower parte of the cheefe , and standeth no where , but onely vpon the Cheife poyncte . The cheife aforesayde maye not bee emeaded or halfed .

Pale . The thirde honorable Ordinarie , is a Pale , and conteyneth the third parte of the fielde , and maye not bee enlarged , though it bee charged . But it maye be diminished , as from a Paile , Pallet . to a Pallet , which is the halfe of the Paile , & may not be charged with any thing quick or dead , neyther may it bee parted , An Endorce . but it may be diminished , & then it is called an Endorce , which is the fourth parte of the Pallet , and is not vsed but when a Pale is betwene twoo of them .

The fowerth of the nyne honorable Ordinaries aforesaid , is a Bende , Bende . which conteineth in bredthe the fifthe parte of the fielde , and when it is deuided , it is called in sondrie wise , Bendelet . as a Bendelet , whiche at the most conteyneth but the sixt parte of the field . A Gartiere , Gartier . conteyneth halfe the bende aforesayde , and maye not bee charged , but with floures or leaues . Coste . A Coste , is the fourth parte of the bende , & halfe of the Gartier , Cotise . and is called at somtime a Cotys , somtyme a Batune , Batune . as by practise may rather be learned , when it is to bee called the one , Rybande . and when the other . A Ribande , conteyneth in bredth the eighte parte of the bende , and is also called a Fissure , Fissure . and then it parteth the fielde into two colours , & is of it selfe mettall , & so beyng it is a secret .

The fith honorable Ordinarie , Fesse is a Fesse , conteyning in bredth the thirde parte of the fielde , and may not be diminished . The Fesse hath ben taken of olde , for a girdle of honor , whiche standeth with good reason . For in the cote armoure , it is in the myddest betwene two equall partes .

The sixt , Escocheon , is when in the field is an Escocheon . The same must conteyne the fifth part of the fielde , & may not be diminished .

The seuenth is a Cheuron , Cheuron . whiche muste containe the firste parte of the fielde . Cheuernell . A Cheuernel containeth halfe the Cheuron , and there maie be no moe , but three in one fielde , except partition . Copleclose . A Copleclose muste containe the fourth part of the Cheuron , and is not borne but by payres , except there be a Cheuron betwene twoo of them .

The .8 . honorable ordinarie , Salterye . is a Salterye , which muste containe the firste parte of the fielde , excepte it be charged with any thing , them it shal containe the third parte of the Escocheon .

The ninth honorable ordinarie , is a Barre , and containeth the firste parte of the fielde . Barre . Closset . Barrulet . Barres Genewes . A Closset is the halfe of the Barre , and tenne of them maie be borne in one fielde , and are very good Armorie . A Barrulet is the fourth part of the Barre aforesaide . And Barrulettes ( excepte they be parted with a Barre , or Fesse ) muste stande alwaies by couples , and then they must be called Barres gemewes .

Touchinge the honorable ordinaries generall , the rebatinge of Armes for diuerse vngentle deedes vngentlemanly donne , the sundrie furres and doublinges , the diuerse mes●es , and other worthy partitions vsed in Armes , &c ye shall haue examples sufficiente in M. G. Leighe his Booke , entituled , The Accidence of Armore .

Of the fiue Greeke letters Mysticall .

The first of the saide Greeke letters is Y. Ypsilon , which betokeneth mannes life , and is called Pythagoras Sameus letter . For he firste fourmed the same , Ad exemplum vitae humanae . And the saide letter hathe three pointes , twoo aboue , and one beneath , Isidorus . li. 1. cap. 3. signifyinge sundrie ages . That whiche is vnder , sheweth the firste age , whiche age is vncertaine , whether it will giue and apply it selfe to vertue , or vice . And the two aboue , beginne from the youth : the righte parte whereof is harde , but yet tending to a blessed life . Pithagoras Sameus letter And the lifte more easie , but leadinge to destruction . Of the whiche letter Perseus thus saithe : Et tibi quae Sameos deduxit litera ramos : Surgentem dextro monstrauit limite callem . The whiche verses I haue thus metrized in Englishe .

The branches of the letter first in Samea founde , of mans life doth showe the high way & ground .

Thetae . The second letter is called Theta , Θ. whiche signifieth deathe . For Iudges in olde time did note , or set the same letter on their names , or , as we nowe call it , heades , who were condemned to die . Capitaines . Likewise did Capitaines in their Briefes , wherein were contayned the names of theire Souldiers . Heraultes . By whiche note or marke , they , and the Heraultes , when they did looke on their said Briefes , could certainely knowe , and make true reporte vnto their Soueraigne , howe many were slaine in the battaile . And therefore it is called Theta , à morte : that is so saie , of death . For it hathe in the middest thereof a darte ( as is before figured ) in token of deathe . And it is thus written of the same letter : O multum ante alias infoelix litera Theta . 1. O muche before others , I saie , Thou vnhappy letter , Theta .

Perseus of the same thus saithe : Et potis est nigrum vitio praefigere Theta . 1. To write eftsoones power did not lacke , For his offence , Theta , all in blacke .

The third letter is Tau , Tau. a figure of the Crosse of Christ , and in Hebrewe it is interpreted , a signe , or marke . Of the whiche it was spoken to the Angell whiche Ezechiel sawe in spirite . Goe thy waie through the Citie of Ierusalem , Ezech. 9. and set a marke vpon the foreheades of them that mourne , & are sorie for al the abhominations that be done therein . By which marke , or token , they were preserued , and not touched in the middest of them which were slaine and destroyed for their Idolatre , in the wratheful displeasure of the Lorde . And this letter also , Apud veteres , was vsed of the Heraultes & Capitaines , and signed on their names , who remained aliue after the battaile . So that the letter Θ , was vsed as the marke of deathe , or of them that were iudged to die , and Τ , of life , or of them that were by the Iudges quitte from deathe . This letter Τ , as well the Greekes , as the Latines , vnto our time , haue pictured , and set forthe , as the true marke , or signe of the Crosse of Christe . C. Paradi●us Symbol heroic Hoc igitur verum , ac proprium sub Christi ecclesia eouscriptorum , ac militantium , Symbolum , signumue est .

The other twoo of the Mystical letters , beinge the first and laste of the Greek Alphabet , onely Christe dothe chalenge to him selfe : for he is the beginninge , and the endinge , where he saithe , Alpha. Omega . Apoc. 1. cap. Ego sum Alpha , & ω. Principium , & finis , qui est , & qui erat , & qui venturus est omnipotens . No letter goeth before Alpha , for it is the firste of all letters . And so is the sonne of God : Ipse enim se principium Iudaeis interrogantibus esse respondet . And therefore S. Iohn in his Apocalyps moste properly putteth the same letters , Iohn . 22. cap. the Sonne of God to be Alpha , Nido . li. 7. ca. 2 and Omega , the firste , and the laste . Primus , quia ante eum nihil est . Nouissimus , quia nouiso simum iudicium ipse suscipiet .

Sentences concerning generositie , collected out of sundrye Aucthors , and firste certayne verses , made by G. Chaucer , teaching what is gentlenes , or who is worthy to bee called gentle . The firste stocke father of gentlenes , What man desireth gentle for to bee Must folowe hys trace , and all hys wittes dres Vertue to loue , and vices for to flee : For vnto vertue belongeth dignitie , And not the reuers safely daire I deme , All weare he mytre , crowne , or diademe . Thys firste stocke was ful of righteousnes . True of his worde , sobre , piteous , and free , Cleane of his ghoste , and loued busines Againste the vice of slouthe in honestie : And but his heire loue vertue as did he , He is not gentle though he riche seme , All weare he mytre , crowne , or diademe . Vices maye well bee heyre to olde ryches , But there may no man , as men maye well see Bequethe his heire his vertues nobles That is appropried vnto no degree But to the firste father in maiestie That maketh his heires them that is Queme All weare he mitre , crowne , or diademe . Non census , nec clarum nomen auorum , Sed probitas magnos , Ouid. 1. de Ponto . ingeniumque facit .
Scogan in his worke which hee writte vnto the Lordes and gentelmen of the kynges house . Take hede ( he saieth ) how men of poore degree Through vertue haue bene sett in great honor , And euer haue lyued in great prosperitie Through cherishing of vertuous labor . Thyncketh also , how many a gouernoure Called to estate hath be sett full lowe , Through misusing of righte and of erroure And therfore I counsaile you vertue to knowe . Virtus omnia in se habet , Plaut. in . 7. Amphi. omnia adsunt bona , Quem paenes est virtus .
Nobilitie is from God . Omne hominum genus in terris Boetius lib. 3. de conso . philo . Simile surgit ab ortu : Vnus enim rerum pater est Vnus cuncta ministrat . Ille dedit Phaebo radios Dedit & cornua Lunae . Ille homines etiam terris Dedit & Sidera caelo . Hic clausit membris animos Celsa sede petitos . Mortales igitur cunctos Edit nobile germen . Quid gen' & proauos strepitis , Si primordia vestra Auctoremque deum spectes Nullus degener extat Ni vitijs peiora fouens , Proprium deserat ortum .

Birthe of all men , one . ALl the lynage of men that bene in earthe bene semblable of byrthe : for certes one aloue is the father of thinges : and there is one alone that ministreth all thynges : he gaue to the Sunne his beames , he gaue to the Moone her hornes , he gaue to men the earth , and the sterres vnto the firmament , he inclosed the soule of man with membres of the bodye , whiche soule came from the hyghe seate of heauen , Than yssue all mortal men of noble seede or beginnyng .i. from God . Why bable ye then , or boste your selfe of your elders birth ? For , yf ye beholde God , your begynnynge & maker , than is there no liuyng creature of mankynde vngentle , but yf he norishe his corage or senses vnto vices , and so declyne from hys propre birth . These doe Boetius write , and much more touchyng the name of gentlenes , and what it is , to whome the renowne and clerenes thereof is to be referred , and what praysing come to gentlemen by the desertes of their auncestors &c: Whiche I woulde wishe all gentlemen to reade , as they are written in his third boke , De consolatione philosophiae . But nowe yet heare what M. G. Chaucer , Chaucer . oure noble poete of thys Realme doth write touching gentlenes of birthe , in hys taile of the wife of Bathe . These are hys woordes .

But for ye speake of suche gentlenesse As is descended out of olde richesse That therefore shullen ye be gentlemen , Suche arrogance is not worthe an hen . Greatest gentleman , who . Lo , who that is moste vertuous alwaye Preuie and aperte , and moste entendeth aye To do the gentle dedes , that hee can . Take hym for the greatest gentelman . Christe wolde we claymed of hym oure gentlenesse Not of our elders , Heritage . for theire great richesses For though they giue vs all theire heritage For which we claymen to be of hye parage , Yet may they not bequeth , Vertuous lyuing may not be bequethed . for nothing To none of vs , theire vertuous liuyng , That made them gentlemen I called bee And baddevs folowe them in such degree . Daunte the Poete . Well can the wise Poete of Florence That hyghte Daunte , speke in thys sentence Lo , in suche maner Ryme , is Dauntes tale . Full sele vpriseth by hys braunches smale Prouesse of man , Prowes . for God of hys goodnes Will that wee claime of hym our gentelnes : For of our elders may we nothing claime But temporal things , that men may hurt & maime . Eke euery wighte wote thys aswell as I Yf gentlenes were planted naturally , Vnto a certayne linage downe the lyne Preuie & aperte , than woulde they neuer fine To donne of gentlenes the faire office , They might donne no vilanye ne vice . Take fier & beare it into the darkest house , Fire . Betwixt thys & the Mounte Caucasus And let men shutte the dores , & go then Yet will the fire as fayre lye & brenne As twenty thousand men myght it beholde His office naturall aye will it holde Vpon perill of my lyfe , till that it dye , Gentrie not annexed to possession . Here maye ye see well how that gentree Is not annexed to possession Sithen folke doe not their operacion Alwayes as doth the fyre , lo in his kynde For God it wote , men may full often fynde A Lordes sonne donne shame and vilanye . And he that will haue prayse of hys gentree Elders noble . For that hee was borne of a gentle house , And had his elders noble and vertuous , And will hymselfe donne no gentell dedes Ne folowe hys gentell auncetrie that deade is , He is not gentle be he Duke or Erle Fye villanes , synfull dedes maketh a cherle : Gentlenes . For gentlenes is but the renomye Of thyne aunceters , for theire hyghe bountie Which is a strong thing to thy person Thy gentlenes cometh from God alone Than commeth our verie gentlenes of grace It was nothing bequeth vs with our place .

M. G. Chaucer , lamenteth in hys second Booke ( which hee entituleth the testament of loue ) that Iaphetes children for pouertie in no lynage bee reckened , Cayn . Iaphet . Noes children . and Caines children for richesse bee maked Iaphetes heires . Alas ( sayeth he ) thys is a wonderfull change betwene these two Noes children , sithen that of Iaphetes ofspryng comen knyghtes , and of Cayne descended the lyne of seruage to hys brothers children . Seruage . Lo howe gentlenes , and seruage as Cousens , both descended out of two brethern of one bodie . Wherefore I saye soothenes , that gentlenes in kynred maken not gentle lynage in succession , without deserte of a mans own selfe . Of what kinred bene the gentles in oure dayes , Kynrede . I trowe therefore yf anye good Bee in gentlenes , it is onelye that it seemeth a maner of necessitie to be put into Gentlemen , that they shoulde not varye from the vertue of their Auncetours . Gentle . And therfore that he will be accompted gentle , he must dawneten his fleshe from vices that cause vngentlenesse , and leaue also reignes of wicked lustes , and drawe to him vertue , Vertue . Auncetours . Gentlenes . that in al places gentlenesse Gentlemen maketh . Then gentlenes of thine Auncetours , that foraine is to thee , maketh thee not gentle , but vngentle , & reproued , if thou continuest not theire gentlenesse . And therfore a wise man once saide : Kynnes gentlenes . Better it is , thy kinred to be by thee genteled , then thou to glory of thy kinnes gentlenesse , and haste no desert thereof thy selfe . Haec Chaucerus .

A Prince that couetethe perpetuall memorie , De principe . must note fiue thinges , which he must haue in his life : that is to saie , to be pure in his conuersation , vpright in iustice , aduenterous in feates of Armes , excellente in knowledge , and welbeloued in his Prouinces .

Of fiue kindes of Nobilitie , whereof the laste was added by Aristotle .

The moste noble and wise Philosopher Plato , Kyndes of nobilitie . and they that folowed him , ( of whom Aristotle seemeth not to be the least ) did set forthe vnto vs , foure kindes of Nobilitie .

The firste is of them , whiche of longe continuance are spronge , and borne of Noble , and righteous Auncetours .

The second is of them , whose Parentes were Princes , or men of greate power , and authoritie .

The thirde is of them , whose Progenitours did florish , and excell in Chiualrie , and prowesse , prowesse consistinge of valiante courage , and Martiall policie , worthy of glorye and praise , either in theire owne countrye , or abroade .

The fourthe kynde of Nobilitie , is saide to be that , whiche of all others is moste excellente : as when anye man dothe exceede , or farre passe others in honestie , gentlenesse , or noblenesse of harte : and dothe trauaile by the puissance of his owne renoume . And he truely is to be called Noble , Noble who whom , not other mennes , but his owne vertue hathe aduanced vnto glorie .

To these foure kindes , Aristotle addeth the fifth , that is to saie , of them which did florishe in highe learninge , and knowledge of thinges wonderfull : Learning . and suche by righte ought to be called Noble men , Noble men . because they doo not only ennoblish their owne Houses , whereof they descended , but also make honorable the Cities , Iuba . and Countries wherein they were borne , as for example . Iuba the sonne of Iube kinge of Numidia , beinge a childe , and also a captiue , Iulij Caesaris triumphum Africannm secutus est . And although he thus had loste his Kingedome , and libertie , and was spoyled of all his honour , and glorie , yet he thought not vtterly to lose all his estimation . Study of good learning . Wherefore he earnestly applied him selfe to the studie of good learnynge , wherein he so muche profited , that in fewe yeares he attained to such knowledge , as thereby he was accoumpted amongest the moste learned Writers of all Greece . So that what so euer fortune had abated of his Nobilitie , the same did the learning of good artes more abundantly restore , to the greate augmentation of his honour . Semblably , Hannibal of Carthage , Hanniball . in his greate miserie , aduersitie , and olde age , learned the Greeke tongue , and became so eloquent , that he moste wisely did bothe write the actes , and deedes of certaine Emperours , and also noble Bookes of Martiall policie : whereby he deserued righte highe commendation , and aduancemente to his former Nobilitie , whiche consisted not in the ancient Linage , or dignitie of his Auncetours , but in the greate learninge , wisedome , and vertue , which in him was very Nobilitie : and that Nobilitie brought him to dignitie . Virtute decet , non sanguine niti .

Nam genus , & proauos , & quae non fecimus ipsi , Vix ea nostra voco .

The woordes of that prince of Oratours , Cicero , in his second Booke of Offices , which he writte vnto his sonne Cicero , doth admonish vs , not onely to consider the name , or fame of our parentes , or Auncetours , but that we must diligently take heede , that we commit nothinge , whereby we maie be thought vnwoorthy to beare the Ensignes of our Progenitours . These are his woordes vnto his sonne . If any from the beginninge of his youthe , hathe the title of honorable name , either receiued of his Father ( which to thee my Cicero I thinke to haue happened ) or by any chaunce , or fortune , on him all men caste their eyes● and of him there is seachinge what he doothe , and howe he liueth . And so , as thoughe he shoulde leade his life in moste open lighte , neither woorde nor deed of his can be vnknowne . Thus it is proued , that Noble men muste haue especial regarde , that they maie be thought woorthy to beare that , whiche they receiued of theire Grandsiers . For their faultes , or vices , are of all men , euen of the basest sorte , bothe noted , and reported : and for theire honorable doinges and deseruinges , are likewise of them commended & praised . Wherefore it is expediente for all those of the Nobilitie , and suche as desire to beare the names of Gentlemen , especially aboue all others , to be circumspecte in their liuinge and manners , and to walke as in the day lighte .

Nobilitas sola est , atque vnicae virtus .
Finis Libri primi .
NVMER . 2.

Euerie man of the children of Israell shall pitche vnder his owne Standerde , and vnder the Armes of their Father Houses .

The second boke entituled , The Armorie of Honour .
What they were , who in olde time did beare tokens , or signes of Armes .

NObilitie , as Boetius in his thirde Booke De Consolatione Philosophiae , defineth it , Est laus quaedam , proueniens ex meritis Parentum . Definitions of Nobilitie . It is also a dignitie of Byrthe and Linage . Aristotle saithe in his fourth Booke Politicorum , that is , Virtus , & diuitae antiquae . The whiche definitions teach vnto vs the true knowledg of very Nobilitie , which diuerse & sundrie persons haue , and doo yet attaine vnto by the name and good fame of their parentes , other by chaunce or fortune , some for theire studies , some by feates of armes , Nobilitie for Vertue . some for their great possessions , or long continuance of theire bloude , and aunciente house in one name and lynage , and also many for their vertues onely , which aboue al other ought euer to haue preheminence in praise & commendation . And therfore to that kind or lynage of those men , were armes first giuen , as to them which excelled al others in vertue , prowes , & goodnes of kind : and such were called noble persons or gentle : Noble persons . & they did beare in their shields , & on their helmetꝭ , or other armor , certain signes or tokens to be knowne by , Vt passim videre licet apud Poetas .

Pallas , that mightie Goddesse of Battaile & wisedome , for because shee woulde seeme more terrible in battaile , Nobilium insignia . did beare for her Ensigne , the monstrous , and Serpentines heade of Gorgon .

Bacchus , the sonne of Iupiter , by Semeles daughter of Cadmus , ( who wente a greate parte of the world , destroyinge Tyrantes , and Monsters , and conquered the Countrie of India ) did beare vpon his Helmet , the hornes of an Oxe , Creaste . whiche was his Creaste , as it is nowe termed of the Heraultes .

Lyons skins . Mars & Hercules , for that theire strengthe , power , & force shoulde be well knowne , did beare on theire Armour the skinnes of Lyons , in Latin called , Leonum exuuiae .

Iupiter also , the sonne of Saturnus , who for his prowes , & wisedome , after his death , was of all the Greekes honoured as a God , & called Father , & kinge of Gods , did beare for his Ensigne a Swanne his heade with the necke . All whiche Ensignes , Swanne his heade . and tokens by them deliuered to theire successours , Nobilitatis , & quòd ab heroibus nati essent , specimen dabant .

Porus , the king of the Indians , when he ordered his battaile against the greate Alexander , did beare in his standerd the Image of Hercules , Hercules his Image . for an encouragement of his souldiers to fight well , & for a note of reproufe , and infamie to them that shoulde flye from the same : and losse of life to them , that left it in the fielde . Suche veneration , and Religion the Indians conceiued of Hercules , Q. Curt. li. 8 that sommetime had bene their enimie . Thus by whom tokens of Armes in old time were borne , may partly be perceiued . But yet the goodly order , & trade in bearing , & ordering of them , was not then suche , as it is nowe . For of these before recited , I finde no mention made of mettall , colour , terme , or any other rule , in what fourme they did beare them .

Of the fourme of Scutcheons .

To sette foorthe here the fourme of Scutcheons it needeth not . For of sundrie fashions thereof , & in especially mene , may plainely be seene in the booke entituled , The Accidence of Armorie . And therefore firste I will declare in howe sundrie wise Escocheon , Shieldes , &c. are termed in the Latine tongue , they be so necessarie to bee knowne of all Gentlemen .

Albosia , Shieldes , or Tergates .

Clypeus , a shield , Tergate , or buckler for a footman . Et dictus est clypeus , ab eo quod clepet .i. celet corpus , periculisque subducat .

Scutum is also a Tergate , or shield , in especially for an horseman . Isidor . Lib. 18 Ethimo . Isidore saithe , that it is called Scutum , Eò quòd à se excuti at telorum ictum . Scutum autem equitum est : Clypeus peditum .

Ancile , a Shielde without corners , suche an one in the time of Numa , seconde kinge of Rome , was seene fall out of the skie : and was kepte by the Priestes of Mars , called Salij . Vide Vitas Plutarchi .

Pelta , is a Tergate , or Buckler like an halfe Moone , of the whiche , the booke of the kinges maketh mention , that Salomon caused to be made , Ducenta Scuta de auro puro : & trecentas Peltas ex auro probato .

Cetra , is a light Tergate , whereof the Poete makethe mention : Leuam Cetra tegit .

Parma , is also a Tergate whiche footemen did vse .

Next vnto this , it is expedient for gentlemen to knowe the Latin for Standerdes , Banners , Auncientes , &c.

Signifer , is he that beareth standerd , or Banner in the field .

Signa infesta , Standerdes , or Banners aduaunced in battaile , in marchinge againste enimies .

Signa , be also Standerdes in warre , or Auncientes .

Vexillum , Romulus his Standerds . is likewise a Banner .

I reade , that Romulus , firste kinge of the Romaines , vsed Fasciculos faeni , that is to saie , a grippe , or knitche of hay bounde together at the ende of a longe staffe , and so the same was borne in the fielde , in the steade of a Standerd .

The principall tokens , or signes whiche were vsed of old time in the Standerdes , or Ancientes of Emperours , and Kinges , were three .

The firste , and chiefe was the Eagle , whiche hath to diuers Emperours appeared , Eagle . as a signe or token of victorie , that shoulde fortune to them in theire warres . The which the Emperours of Rome doo yet aduaunce in their Standerdes . And who so euer beareth the same , is called Aquile fer , id est , the Standerd bearer of the Romaines .

The seconde principal token , which both the Grecians , and Romaines vsed in their Standers , was the Dragon .

Dragon . The third , and principall token that the Emperours of Rome vsed , was that whiche in Latine is called Pila , a round Ball , Pila . or Globe , as a figure to declare the Nations that were subiecte vnto them in the whole worlde .

Nowe shall ensue accordinge to my entended purpose , diuerse , and many Cote armours , which I haue collected , and gathered out of sundrie Authours , as well Latines , as Frenche , and Englishe .

Therefore , first and aboue al others , the Armes of our moste dreade soueraigne Ladie , Queene Elizabeth , that nowe is our chiefe Gouernour vnder Christe , ought of al estates to be knowne , and knowne to be reuerenced , and honoured , as thereby we maie woorthily confesse , and acknowledg the Soueraigntie , Royaltie , Preheminence , and Dignitie of her , and her Auncetours magnificence , in vnitinge , and knittinge together the whole Iurisdiction , Right , and Title of the most noble Realmes of England , and Fraunce into one : and so vnited , are quarterly borne in one fielde .

First on the right quarter is seene the armes of France , the fielde whereof is Azure , three Floures de Luce , d'Or . And in the seconde Englande , the field wherof is Gules , three Lyons Passant , Gardant , d'Or . The thirde as the second , and the fourth as the firste . All within her Garter of heauenly hewe , adorned with the golden Poeme : Honi soit qui maly pense , ensigned with the Emperiall Crowne of her Noble Maiestie .

Thus , who readinge , & marking the order of the blazon of the said moste noble Armes , and seinge the same afterwarde in any Churche , Castle , or other place , but by & by he will know the same , and remember the reuerence therunto due : and not that onely , but wil breake out , and say , God saue the Queene , God saue her Grace . Whiche woordes so saide , and hearde of others , bringeth all the hearers in remembrance of their obedience , and duetie to her , being our most lawful Prince , and Gouernour . And these Armes are of all men , liuinge vnder her , & her Lawes , and within all her Dominions , to be extolled , and set vp in the highest place of our Churches , houses , & mansions , aboue all other estates & degrees , who so euer they be . And this example of our Soueraignes Armes , I first put forthe , as principally aboue all others to be knowne , for the causes aforesaide .

Of Signes borne in Armes .

Beastes . There be diuers , & sundrie signes borne in Armes , as of beastes , the Lyon , Tyger , Panther , Parde , Leoparde , Rhynoceron , Eliphante , Gryphen , Cameleon , Cameleoparde , Linx , Beuer , Beare , Wolfe , Greyhounde , Hound , Foxe , Ape , Satyre , Histrix , Euydros , Leontophon , Musion , &c. These properly be called beastes , and no other . For ( as Isidore saithe ) Bestiarum vocabulum propriè conuenit Leonibus , Isidor . Li. 1● . Cap. 2. Etym. Pardis , Tygribus , Lupis , & Vulpibus , & caeteris , quae vel ore , vel vnguibus saeuiunt : exceptis Serpentibus . Bestiae autem dictae , à vi quae sauiunt .

Also euery other beast , than these especially before named , ought not to be tearmed in Armes , Beastes , but by theire proper names , as a Bull , a Busse , in Latin called Tarandulus , an Horse , Mule , Asse , Ramme , Goate , Hart , Hynd , Bucke , Bore , Hare , Conye , &c. These in Latin are called Pecora , aut Pecudes , Iumenta , & Quadrupedia . Armenta equorum , & boum sunt , quòd his in arm●s vtimur . And howe they differ in , or touching their names , maie easily be vnderstande by Isidore , who so will reade him , Libro 12. Cap. 1. Etymo . titul . De Pecoribus , & Iumentis .

There are seene also in Armes , the signes of Serpentes , as the Dragon , Coluber , Basiliske , of somme called the Cockatrice , Salamander , Amphibene , Stellion , Prester , Ceraste , Hyder , Aspe , Adder , Snake , Iacule , the Chelyder , &c. Quae quatuor pedibus nituntur , sicut Stelliones , &c. non Serpentes , sed Reptilia nominantur .

Of Fisshes , Fishes . these are especially borne , the Delphine , Luce , Whale , Bocas , Pearche , Roche , Glade , Mullet , Amyon , Melanure , Balene , Mugill , Crabbe , &c. And of Shell fishe , the Escalop is chiefely borne in Armes .

Of Fowles , Fowles . or Byrdes these are principally borne : the Eagle , Gossehauke , Fawcon , Marlet , Swanne , Crane , Storke , in Latin called Ciconia , Curlewe , Ostriche , Phenix , Pellicane , Peacock , Hernesewe , in Latin called Ardea . The Rauen , Crowe , Pye , Backe , otherwise called Uespertilion , or Reymouse . The Nightingale , Turtle , Kaladre , Owle , Kite , Swalowe , Onacracle , Martyn , Myredromble , Lare , Phesante , Partriche , &c. These birdes , & many moe are borne in Armes . Yea the Bee , Butterflie , Grashopper , & Waspe are borne of diuers : as also the Scarabie , Trees . which is a fly hauing hornes like to an harte .

Of trees are borne in Armes , the Palme , Oliue , Oke , the Lawrell or Bay tree , Sene , in Latin called Collutea , Ceder , Cypres , Beech , Walnut , Mulbery , Sicamor , Figtre , Iuye , &c. And yet these trees are not so ofte borne , as their braunches , fruite , & leaues be : as by examples hereafter shall folowe .

Of Floures , Floures . Hearbes , & their Leaues , an infinite number are borne : as the Rose doble & single , Alleluya , Marigold the Lily , the Safron floure , Celidon , Amomum , Merche , in Latin called Apium , Artemesia , Agnus castus , the herbe called Diptanum , or Diptanus in latin , in english Diptanee , or Detanee : Milfoile the great , Lupoine , the floure de Luce , Cinquefoile , Quaterfoile , Trifoile , Daisy , Iacinth , Senuy , Uiolet , &c.

Fruites . Of fruitꝭ especially are borne the Pomgranade , in latin called Malum granatum , the Oreng , Peare , Apple , the bery of the tree called Morus , & the leafe also is borne in armes , &c.

Of dead thingꝭ are borne an infinite number in armes , as Crownes , Coronetꝭ , Maces , Pillers , piles , globes , Cheurons , Bars , Bendes , Helmets , Gauntlets , swordes , daggers or pugiōs , Launces , Fauchons , Sithes , Billes , crosses , Bokes , Letters , Beasantes , Plates , Torteauxes , Pellets , Saltries , Chequers , Castles , Toures , Rockes , ships Galthropes , Scocheons , Formales , Mollets pierced and whole , Sufflues , Harpes , Bels , Lampes , plomets , Ropes or funes , Bowes , Arowes , Dartes , water Bowges , Losenges , Mascles , Buckles , Fusils , Frets , Billets , wheles Oges , Cuppes , Ewers , Combes , Saltes , Phiols , Garbages , Pheons , Ballances , Maunches , Gorges , Bugles , Trompets , Lures , Bernacles , Harrowes , Rowels , trewels , in latin called Trullae , Annulets , Ankers , Portculesses Keies , Boltes , &c. And here is to be noted , that al thinges bearinge life , of what nature so euer they be of , excepte Crownes Imperial , are to be preferred for their estimation , and dignitie in signes of Armes , before al those which haue no life . As of beastes , the Lyon is to be commended & preferred before all others , who so euer beareth him , for that he is king of all beastes : but whether when he is borne passant , gardant , or regardant , rampant , saliant , seiante , couchant , or dormant , be moste worthiest , or auncient in Armes , I refer that to the Heraultes : yet not altogether , for I dare boldly affirme the bearing of him one way to be most of honor & souerainty : as when he is passant , gardant . And nowe the reste I commit to their iudgemente , who are mine elders . Of Byrdes or Fowles , the Egle , Pellicane , Phenix , and Swanne haue chiefe dignitie .

Of Serpentes , the Basiliske and Dragon . Of Fisshes , the Delphine , Luce , and Glade . Of Trees , the Palme , and Oliue . Of some the Lawrel is preferred . Of Floures , the Rose , Lilye , or Floure de Luce. Of Deade thinges , Crownes , and Beasantes . Of Fruites , the Pomgranade beareth the preheminence .

Thus I haue shewed vnto you of diuers & sundrye signes borne in armes , & the right opinion of the worthines therof . So that now is to be shewed the blazon of al those signes in armes , with many other mo , not before remembred . Wherunto I would wish al & singuler estates , who would haue the name of gentlemen , endeuour them selues Manibus , pedibusque ( vt aiunt ) to the knowledg of these which ensue . And because the Crosse is the most triumphant signe and worthiest , the same shall firste haue place .

Thus in olde time it maye be perceiued , what Princes thoughte of the Crosse. So hathe it beene thoughte good to the wisedome of God , that Christe shoulde subdewe the vniuersall worlde throughe the Hornes of the Crosse. Eras. in Luc. 24. c.

Many of the Iewes , whiche crucified that innocente Lambe , and our Sauioure Iesus Christe on the Crosse , when he was deliuered vnto them , Idem in Matth. 27. c. wisshing his bloude to light vpon them , & their children , to the destruction of themselues , and their successours , did afterwardes worship the Crosse , which before cried in the multitude , Up with him , vp with him , crucifie him . The Crosse being afore odious & a thinge of reproche , Idem Iohan. 19. ca. was made by Christ , a triumphant signe , wherunto the world boweth down the head , which Angels doo worship , & Diuels doo feare . Hereon he vanquished the power of the tyran Sathan , & all the puissance of this world . In this signe it behoueth vs therfore to get the victorie , & not otherwise to triumphe , then vnder this standerde of our Heauenly Prince , which is Christe .

Thus it maie be seene , Religion conceiued of the signe of the Crosse. that the Religion whiche they conceiued at the sighte of the signe of the Crosse , didde so alter theire mindes , and mollifie theire hartes , that they did returne from theire wicked practises of Rebellion , vnto theire obedience , with crauinge pardon .

As this signe of the Crosse was then sene of the French in the Elemente , whiche was ( as I collecte ) in the time of the noble and puissant Prince , kinge Edwarde the third . So the saide Gaguine reciteth in his Chronicles , that the Armes which the Frenche kinges nowe beare , were sent from Heauen to Clodoueus then kinge of Fraunce , Lilia coelo demissa . The Armes of the French kinge . when he was baptised , & became a Christian. id est , 3. Lilia aurea quibus subest caeli sereni color , quem Azurum Franci dicunt . That is to saie , three Lilies Golde , in the coloure of the fayre , and cleare Frmamente , whiche in Frenche is called Azure .

And of the saide miraculous Ensignes Gaguine writeth these twoo verses , as ensue .

Haec sunt Francorum celebranda insignia Regum , Quae demissa Polo , sustinet alma fides .

It were too longe to write , or place here all the verses , whiche Iodocus Badius Ascensius doth rehearse in the ende of the saide Gaguine his Chronicle , De Insignibus Franciae . Wherefore , omitting the greatest parte therof , take these fewe folowinge .

At nobis caelica dona , Et pia Francorum placeant insignia Regum . Aurea caelesti primum suffulta colore Lilia , Caesareis olim iam credita ceruis . Auri flamma dehinc , veterum victoria Regum .

These yet remaine to the French kinges for their Ensignes : where before Clodoueus time , Buffones . 3. they did beare three Todes , as witnesseth the saide Gaguine in the first booke of his Chronicles . Fol. 5. pag. 2.

And of their Auriflambe the same Gaguine writeth thus . Traditum quoque est pannum sericeum rubrum , Auriflamma . instar signi militaris quadratum , miro fulgore splendentem diuinitus esse exceptum . Quo in expeditionibus contra fidei christiane hostes pro signo Franci Reges vterentur , buicque vexillo nomen Auriflammā hactenus permansisse . Denique à Dionisianis caenobitis asseruatā esse . Sed abutentibus signo aduersus Christicolas Regibus illud euanuisse . Thus of their Armes and Auriflambe , howe they had the same , appeareth . Yet here is to be noted , that when they aduanced their Auriflambe , which was their standerd , in battaile against the Christians , it vanished awaie ( as Gaguine declareth ) and they had the same no more againe . For what commeth , or is sente from Heauen ( as they allege the same was ) muste be godly , rightuously , and vertuously borne , vsed , and ordered . Yet notwithstanding when that was gone , they did newe make an other ( as he reporteth ) Non dissimili forma : Not vnlike vnto the first , whiche was halowed by theire Bishoppes , and kepte , Inter sacra .

Thus thir owne Chronicler dothe declare , howe theire Auriflambe did vanishe awaie , Almightie God being displeased with them , when they aduanced the same against their Christian neighbours , and were gladde to counterfeite an other . Euen so likewise for theire vntruthe , infidelitie , and treacherie , he hathe taken from them theire Armes , ( whiche also they saie were sente them from Heauen ) and hathe iustely , as a rightuous Iudge , giuen them to our kinges of this Realme of Englande , to enoblishe them withall , and as theire owne righte , and Enheritaunce , whiche moste puissantly , and valiauntely they haue borne , and doo beare , he therefore be praised , Qui est Rex Regum , & Dominus dominantium .

The Ensigne of the noble Cittie of London hathe the like fielde and Crosse , Insignia Ciuitatis London . sauing that on the dexter parte thereof is seene a Daggare , colour of the Crosse.

Of other Crosses there be borne a greate number , bothe charged , and not charged : and of some of them I will make description . Wherefore nexte to the plaine Crosse before spoken of , take these ensuinge for example .

It is to bee knowne , also , that the sayde crosse , ( as many other signes in armes ) maye bee shadowed . That is to saye . That of whatsoeuer colour the fielde is of , the vmbre or shadowe of the token or signe borne in the fielde , is traced of a contrarie color , Crosse vmbre and the bodye of the thinge shadowed , is of the color with the fielde . And this crosse so vmbrated , is thus to bee blazed . A. beareth Or , a crosse Moloyne Umbre .

And it is to bee considered , that suche gentlemen , as did beare theire armes shadowed , had theire progenitours , bearinge the same not shadowed , but whole and perfecte . And because theire possessions and patrimonyes descended to other men , then the neuewes or kynsmen of suche gentlemen , lyuynge in good hope , and trustinge to haue the possessions and patrimonies so descended to other men agayne , did in the meane while beare theire progenitors armes vmbrated , leauing all other differences . For when at anye tyme suche theire inheritance , to them reuerted , then myght they beare that Lyon , or other beaste , in suche forme , fielde and coloure , as theire progenitors did firste beare the same . And note , it is more worship and moche better for them , to beare theire armes so vmbrated or shadowed , then wholy to leaue th' ensignes of theire progenitours . But yet in my iudgement , they myghte alwayes ( with conuenient differences ) haue borne the same whole , and not vmbrate : and inespecially they must be so ordered at theire funerals , notwithstanding the bearinge of them otherwise in theire lyfe tyme . And herein the iudgemente and sentence of the kynges at armes , Kinges at Armes . muste chefely take place , and haue vigor and force : for the distribucion of this difference before spoken of , onely belongeth and apperteineth vnto them .

And thus I will passe ouer Crosses , there bene so many of them , and those of diuerse other formes , degrees & charges , then before are blazed : as Crosses , enuecked . entrayled , forked , paled , and trunked Crosses , Potonce , Mascule , Besāte , vairee , vndee , nebulee , cordee , botonye , Batune , formye , vrdee , pomelle , furshe , nowye . Crosse taue , checkey , waue , Frette , humette , and fitche . There are also to bee founde and seene in armes Crosses doble partited , semyed , quartered of the fielde wherein they stande , contrecomponed , persed , graded , & voyded &c. These maye the better bee throwly perceaued , yf the reader hereof will diligently note , and beare awaye , what is sayde of them by master Leighe , in hys Accedence of Armorye , where he largely entreateth of sondrie and diuerse sortes of Crosses , borne in sondrie wise , as maye appeare , fol. 29.30.31 . &c.

Of Armes quartered .

1. Beareth quarterly Gules , and Or , one Mollet d'argent , on the firste quarter . These appertaine to the right honourable , the Earle of Oxeforde , by the name of the L. Ueer . L. Veer .

2. Beareth quarterly Golde , and Gules , an Escarboncle , Pomette , Fleurettie , Sable , Brochant sur le tout . This is the sixte Cote , borne , and marshalled in the Cote Armour of the right honourable , Sir Henrye Sidney , knight of the moste honourable Order of the Garter , and Lorde Presidente of the Queenes maiesties honourable Councel in Wales .

3. Beareth Or , and Gules , a Bende varie argent , & Azure , Sackuile . by the name of Sackeuile , Baron of Buckehurste .

4. Beareth Or , and Gules quarterly , on a Bende Sable , Euers . 3. Escaloppes d'argent , by the name of Euers .

Armes also which are quartered as aforesaide , for their diuersitie , maie in some respecte seeme to be twoo Cotes , borne quarterly : where , Secundum veritatem , they are but one . As in example .

And these suffise for Armes quartered , which are alwaies to be taken for single Cotes , yet of greate antiquitie , as to the Heraultes are beste knowne .

Of Armes parted per Pale .

Armes parted the long way , or on length , being of two colors in one Escocheon , equally parted from the middest of the highest part therof vnto the lowest point , are in Blazon termed Partie per Pale . And of the olde Heraultes , Latinè , Partita planè secundum longum . Gallicè , Partee du longe . And thereof shal be shewed 7. sundrie partitions moste vsed in Armes Paled : videlicet .

B. beareth Argent & Sable , parted per Pale , engrale .

C. beareth Or and Gules parted per Pale , rasee .

D. beareth Argent and Azure , parted per Pale , enueckee .

E. beareth Sable and Or , parted per Pale , dentee .

F. beareth Argent and Uerte , parted per Pale , nebule . It is called Nebule , for that twoo colours are put together by the maner of Cloudes .

G. beareth Or and Gules , parted per Pale , vndee . It is termed Undee , because two colors are caried one into an other , by the maner of water troubled with the wind .

Of Armes parted per Fesse .

Euen ( as next before ) ye may reade of the Armes parted on the length of the Escocheon : So maie ye vnderstand , that there be partitions also made ouerthwarte the Escocheon , euen in the middest of the same , equall , of twoo colours from the righte side , to the lefte : and is termed in Blazon , Partiè per Fesse . Gallicè , Partie transuersee . As in example : H. beareth Argent & Azure , Partie per Fesse . And so descriuinge the colours of any Escocheon , ye may saie , as before , of the Armes parted per Pale .

videlicet . Partie per fesse engrale , videlicet . Partie per fesse rasie , videlicet . Partie per fesse enueckye , videlicet . Partie per fesse dentie videlicet . Partie per fesse nebule , videlicet . Partie per fesse vndee &c.

Note also that these particions per fesse , are to be seene often charged with one token of armes , or with two , as the diligent searcher shal fynde , yf hee take hede therunto , in thys booke .

Howe these particions maye bee in sondrye wyse charged , take these fewe folowing for examples .

1. beareth Or , & Sable , parted per fesse , vndee ij . Lyons Dragons , transmuted of the field . I terme these lyons transmuted because the Lyon first placed in the fielde , is Sable , in Or , & the other is Or , in Sable . Thys maye be taken for ij . cote armoures , without breathe of any Rule in Armorye . And is called of olde heraultes lentallye : whiche wherefore it is so called , Lentally . ye may reade in M.G. Leyghe hys Accidence of Armorye , where he treateth of sondrye particions mesles .

2 beareth Gules , & Sables parted per Fesse enuecked , three lyons nayssant argente , crowned .

3 Yet I fynde an other particion , as thys example teacheth , videlicet . S. beareth Sables , & Gules embatyled per Fesse three Fer de molyns d'Argente .

4 The sayde particions also maye bee charged conueniently with twoo tokens , and the same of two natures & kyndes , as thus it maye bee deuised . R. beareth . Sable , and Argente parted per Fesse nebule , two Faucons volante , and a Greyhounde cursante , contrechanged of the fielde . Here the Fancons are argente volante in Sable , and the Greyhounde is Sable cursante in Argente , & thys is good armorye . These examples may suffise for armes parted per Fesse , although there be sene diuerse other particions , as partye par Cheuron , par Pile , par Bende &c. whiche are both auncient , Particions . and ryght commendably borne of diuerse in sondrie maners , formes , & ordres . Therefore here I ceasse to write anye further of them , vntill I shall speake generally of signes borne in armes .

Of a cheife in Armes .

WHosoeuer beareth a Cheife in hys Armes , it is placed in the hyghest place of the Escocheon , as a thing honorable to be borne , & the fielde beneth is twise so moche as the cheife , & most commonly is seene of an other colour . Therfore certaynely they do greatly erre , which call such Armes parted , althoughe they bee of two coloures : for in parted armes it is required that the coloures bee equall , & so it is not in anye Armes that is honored with a Cheife , or a cheifetaine . And of the same , how in sondry wise they are borne in Armes , take these fewe ensuyng for examples .

1 The Lord S. Iohn beareth Argente , L. S. Iohn . on a cheife Gules , two mollets d'Or persed verte .

2. Uerrey , Titcheborne . a Cheife , d'Or . Thys is borne by the name of Tytcheburne , of Titcheburne . Note that thys chiefe is not charged with anye thynge , and therefore is of greate antiquitie . And of the fielde of thys cote I wil speake hereafter , where it shal be entreated of sondrye furres .

3. Barrie vndee , of vi . dargent , and Sable , on a chiefe gules , a Lyon passant gardant d'Or . Here the chiefe is charged noblye which a quicke beaste of honor .

4. Ermyne , on a chiefe dented , Gules , thre Crosses taued , Or. The tricke of this cote I toke , as I found it paynted on a Table , Thurlande . in a parishe churche of Nottingham , & as it is there mencioned , is borne by the name of Thurlande .

Ermyne , a chefe dented , ermynes . Of these thyngs borne in thys cote , it shal be spoken hereafter .

Ermyne , on a chefe indented , Gules , thre crownes Imperiall , d'Or . Here I neded not to haue spoken of the metal of the crownes , for all suche are of golde . The note of thys cote armour I toke in the parishe churche of Tyckehill in Yorkeshire .

D. beareth Or , three water bowges Sable in chefe . Here the fielde remaynethe perfecte without alteracion of coloure , and abydeth onely as charged in the chefetaine , whiche is very auncyent Armorie .

Of Armes Palee .

AS I haue sayde before , no Armes ought to bee called parted , but yf they bee made of two colours , once parted and no more . Armes paled , ( whereof nowe is to bee shewed , are not , nor ought to bee called partite Armes , although they bee diuided in two coloures . For the coloures in armes palee , are diuersely parted of two coloures to the nombre of 6. payles : and such Armes , be called Armes pailed , for they bee made after the maner of payles , yet in sondrye wyse , as plaine , vndee , daunsete &c. wherof take these fewe for examples .

1. A. Beareth palee , of 6. pieces , Or , and Sable .

2. C. Beareth Palee dansetee of fower Sable & Argente , or thus , hys fielde is of Payles dauncie Sable , and Argente . These Payles bee called dansetee , because they bee crooked and sharpe , and so put together one into an other . And note , that these cotes Armoures bee termed Paled , because therein are founde so many Pales of one coloure , as is of the other .

3 In diuerse armes of gentlemen be founde , one , or two Payles of one coloure , and what coloure is founde more , is the fielde , and of one Payle , take thys for example .

G. Beareth Argente a Pale , bendee d'Or and Sable , And of him that beareth two Pales , it must be said thus .

4 Beareth Gules .ij. Pales d'Argent . These pales maye bee borne vndated , which is as moche to saye , as watered with a floode , and also engraled , dented , vaire &c. Whos● marketh well these two last sheildes , shall playnely perceaue , that both the dextre parte , and sinistre of the escocheon , abyde perfecte of one metall or coloure , and so shall hee not fynde of armes Palee , for what coloure thereof is founde of the right parte of the sheilde , the contrarye is founde on the lefte .

Armes Barrie .

William the conquerour , William Conquerour . what tyme hee entred thys Realme , hee did beare thys Coate Armoure , but after hys conquest , he tooke to hym other Armes , videlicet two Leopards of gold in a field Gules . For as I reade , Henry the seconde was the firste kynge that dyd beare three Lyons .

Also , it is to be knowne , that armes may in diuerse wise be Barred , and the firste maner is playne and streyghte , as is next before exemplefied . Yet in the blazon of them , ye shall not saye , hee beareth playne armes barred , But yf they bee otherwise borne , ye than must nedes declare the blazon of them , how they differ from playne armes barrie , for some are borne Barrie vndee , barrye verrye , or enuecked , barrye dauncye , or Bendye &c. Others also be barred with a Lyon rampaunte , a greyhounde , or other Beaste . And some bee barred otherwise , as hereafter partely shal be shewed by sondrye examples folowing , videlicet .

1. D. Beareth barrie vndee , of 4. sable and Or.

2. E. Beareth Ermyne iij. barre ways verrye d'Or and Guyles .

3. F. Beareth Sable , twoo barres Daunsetye , d'Argente : And of a cote Armoure barry bendee . Reade in M. Gerarde Leighe hys Accidence , wher he entreateth of cotes commixt with two of the honorable Ordinaries .

4. Beareth barree of viij . pecis , argente , and verte , an Orle of Marlettes , Sable .

And note that these cotes barriez , are moste commonly borne of 6. and 8. pieces , but neuer aboue , as Upton witnesseth : Yet when you se anye armes , hauing mo pieces , blaze them on thys wise .

The Frenche Heraultes blaze thys cote , Face de dix pieces , and whether there be two Barres , three or mo , they terme them all , Facee .

Here note , that a Barre maie be borne with twoo Barrulettes , one aboue , and the other beneath the Barre . And Barre , as I saide before , containeth but the first part of the fielde : and the Barrulet is a Diminutiue thereof , and is but the fourth parte of the Barre . And these Barrulettes are often founde Florie , or Flored , for that they be made after the maner of Floure de Luces , issuinge out of them as diuerse otherwise , whereof take these nexte for examples .

The firste beareth Uert , a Barre and twoo Barrulettes , Or.

The seconde beareth Argent , a Barre , with two Barrulettes Floritie , Sable .

The thirde beareth Gules , a Barre betwene two Clossettes , d'Or . The Closset is the halfe of the Barre . And these two halfes thus deuided , haue the force of two Barres in the fielde , for moe , by the name of Barres , it maie not containe , and keepe equall diuisions .

The fourth beareth Argent , three Barres Gemewes , Sable .

Of Bendes .

And of him that beareth such a Bende , ye shal say thus . Uidelicet : L. Scroupe . The L. Scroupe of Bolton beareth a Bende , Or , in a fielde , Azure . I here firste blaze the Bende , for the honour of the mettall that he is of , and yet the fielde is of the colour of the moste faire and cleare Firmament .

These Bendes maie be borne with Bendelettes of diuerse fourmes , some plaine , some faire , some with Cotizes bothe plaine , or daunce , &c. As in example .

Firste beareth Argent , a Bend Wauie Sable , these appertaine to the right worshipfull Sir H. Wallop of Wallop in the Countie of South K. Wallop .

The seconde beareth Uert , a Bende Uiurie Dargent .

The third beareth Or , a Bend sinister , engraled Gules .

The fourth beareth Azure , on a Bende Argent , cotized with twoo Cotizes d'Or , a Lyon Sable , armed and langued Gules .

Moreouer , there be founde in Armes , certaine other Bendes , to some straunge , from these aforesaide , as these twoo whiche ensue .

Firste bearethe Fusilles , whiche are so termed , for that they be made like Spindles . As in example : Sidenham beareth Argent , a Bend Fusillie Sable , or fiue Fusilles in Bende Sable . Sidenham .

The other beareth Sable , a Bende Brettesse de Or.

Fusilles in Bendes , are commonly borne of Gentlemen in Burgondie , and as they be borne in Bende , so maie they be borne in Fesse , &c.

Foure Cotes of sundrie deuises .

1. Beareth Sable , a Bende Argent , with twoo double Cotizes , Potences , and Conterpotences of three peces d'Or . 2. Beareth Bendie of sixe pieces d'Or , and Uert , on a Fesse Argent , three Floures de Luce Azure . 3. Beareth Sable , sixe Battunes d'Argent . 4. Beareth Azure , a Crosse Sarcele d'Or , with a Batune , componie d'Argent , and Gules .
Differences betwene Fusilles , Lozenges , and Mascles .

1. Beareth Gules , Denham . foure Fusilles in Fesse Ermyne , by the name of Denham . 2. Beareth Sable , three Lozenges Argent . 3. Beareth Or , and Ermynes Lozengie . 4. Beareth Sable , 7. Mascles D'argent voided . 3.5 . & ● .
Cheurons .

1. Beareth Ermynes , a Cheuron D'argent . 2. Beaerth Sable , a Cheuron betwene three Huchettes D'argent , lye de Uert . 3. Beareth Ermyne , twoo Cheurons Azure , charged with sixe Estoiles of eight poyntes D'or . 4. Beareth Cheuronie of sixe D'argent , and Sable .

He beareth d'Or , a Cheuron Uersie d'Azure , in Chiefe , an Eagle displayed with twoo heades of the seconde , membred , and beaked Gules . This Cheuron may be borne frettie with an other , and the same contercoloured , as I haue seene in diuerse Bookes of Armorie .

Of Armes enbordured , or with bordurs .

Bordures , many and diuerse are to be sene in Armes , whereof , those whiche be plaine , are moste vsually borne , and of the same , and others diuers , take these ensuing , for example .

1. Beareth Fusillie , Bendie , D'or and Gules , a border Azure .

2. Beareth Argent , one Lyon saliant d'Azure , armed , langued , and crowned Gules , a Border dentelle Sable . As this Border is dented , so it maie be borne , engraled , enuecked , goboned , vaire , &c.

3. Beareth Gules , one Crosse Patie D'or , betweene foure Beasantes , with a Border D'argent , semie trefolie propre .

4. Bendie of sixe , Azure and Argent , on a Scocheon Sable , an Hartes heade cabazed D'or , with a Plate in Chiefe . Here the Cutter was negligent , in omittinge a Bordure d'Ermyne , contrarie to his instructions .

These Bordurs also are borne , charged with diuerse & sundrie signes or tokens , as ye maie perceiue by these ensuinge .

1. Beareth Uerte , fiue Fermaulxz in Crosse D'or , a Border d'Argent , charged with eight Ogresses : or after the Frenche blazon , Ogressee de huit pieces .

2. Beareth Argent , fiue Torteuxes in Saltier , a border de Gules , Fermaille D'or , de S. pieces .

3. Beareth Or , one Crosse botonye d'Hermines , betwene fower hurtes , with a Bordure Sable , semie billetti d'Argent .

4. Beareth d'Argent , one Saltier engrayled Sable , betwene fower pomeis , on a bordure Azure , viij . Escocheons d'Or , charged with as manye Crosses , crossettie fitche Gules .

Hee beareth Sable , a Lyon rampant d'Argent , with a bordure gobonie de l'vne & l'autre .

Many other Bordures are to be seene , charged with infinite tokens , both quicke and deade . And these Furres , Krouine , Ermines , and Verrey , doe most nobly sett forth these Bordures , to the great beautefiyng of the same . And of Armes borne with Bordures , these fewe aforesaid may suffise for examples .

Of quarters & cantons .

There bee borne in Armes sondrye Quarters or Cantons both charged and not charged , whiche are of moste auncient bearing , and therefore worthye to bee noted .

1. Beareth Geronnie of vi . pieces Or and Sable , on a quarter Gules , one mollet d'Argent . I tooke the tricke of thys cote as I founde it in a glasse wyndowe , within the Parishe churche of Lileburne in Leycester shire , but by what name it is borne , I there could not get knowledge .

2. Beareth sable semye florye d'Argent , and a quarter d'Or .

3. Beareth d'Or , two barres Sable , a quarter sinistre d'Ermyne .

4. beares Gules , twoo pales de vaire , on a quarter sinistre d'Or , one fermaulx lozengie , Gules .

Kyrrell beareth d'Or , ij . Cheurons gules , a quarter de mesme . They must bee here blazed two Cheurons , althoughe the quarter abateth one halfe of the Cheuron mountant , that is , the ouermoste Cheuron , and thys is a true Rule , whan ye shall see anye token abated , by the dignitie of the Canton : for the token or signe , although it should seme abated yet it abideth perfect in blazon .

1. The fielde is of the Perle , a playne Crosse Diamonde , Canton d'ermyne . For difference one mollet Topazie , signifiyng the third brother of that house from whence in bloode hee is lineally descended . Thys ensigne apperteyneth to M. Laurence Holenshed , Holenshed . a gentleman endowed with diuerse noble vertues and excellent qualities , very experte also in blazon deuises heroyques , and a feruent louer of all them , whiche embrace the studie thereof , wherefore worthye he is of such rememberance , and commendacion more ample .

2. Beareth Argente , one Cheuron Gules , & on a Canton Sable a cinquefoyle d'Ermyne persed . Thys Cote I haue seene borne also without a Canton , by the name of Tyas . Tya● .

3. Beareth Gules two estoyles of eyghte poynctes d'Or , a canton Ermine , Leuerton . by the name of Leuerton .

4. Beareth d'Or , ix . Muscles vert , voyded two thre , thre , one , on a Canton sinistre , Sable . one Cressante with a Mollet d'Argent persed .

Basset . Hys fielde of the Topaze , three pyles in poyncte Rubie a Canton d'Hermine .

Sou●he . He beareth Mars , 8. Beasantes , Solis , 2.2.3 . i. a Canton d'Hermyne .

Of Armes Checkey .

MOreouer diuerse signes & tokens in armes are founde to bee compounded of sondrye metalles and coloures , as also Checkey , and thereof whole fieldes are nobly borne : all which , these fewe examples folowing shal playnely teache you .

1. Beareth Argent , a demy Lion verte , in cheife d'Or , and Sable contrecomponed . Contrecomponed . Thys cheife is so termed , because it abideth of one metall and one coloure : and but of two Tractes onelye , therefore in no wise maye bee called Checkey , although it appeare like thereunto .

2. Beareth Or , Checkey . a Fesse Checkey d'Argent and Sable , betwene three escocheons d'Ermynes . This Fesse as it is here of thre Tractes , is right Checkey . And an hole fielde , may be Checkey , saens nombre .

3. Beareth Checkey d'Ermine and Gules , on a Fesse Sable . Incressa●t● . 3. Incressants d'Argent . The Frenche Heraultes blaze thys , troys Croissans tournez .

Cheife . 4. Beareth Checkey d'Argent and vert , in Cheife Gules , one Lyon naissant d'Or . Blaze thys by the Planettes thus . The field is checkye , Lunae , and Veneris , a Lyon naissant Solis a cheife Martis . This might bee the cote of some aduenturous knyghte and a louer , for here hee hath the Sunne and Moone , that god and goddesse Mars , and Venus , for patrons in hys ensigne .

Warren . Hys fielde is Checkey , Saphier , and Topaze . And note , as there is whole fieldes Checkey of mettall and coloure , so are to bee seene , Bendes , Barres , Bordures , Cheurons , Saltiers , &c. Checquey . Also the two furres Ermyne , and Ermynes with anye coloure , doe ennoblyshe all Coates Checked .

This game was first inuented by Athalus , as Master . G. Chaucer reporteth in hys dreame , saying .

At the Chesse with me she gan to playe With her false draughtes full diuerse She stale on me , and toke my feirse And whan I sawe my feirse awaye Alas I couthe no longer playe But sayde , Farewell swete Ywis And farewell all that euer there is Therewith fortune sayde , Checke here And Mate in the midde pointe of the Chekere With a Paune errante , alas , Full craftier to plaie shee was , Then Athalus that made the game Firste of the Chesse : so was his name .

The plaie at the Chesse , Chesse . Go. Li. 1 ca. 26 Fol. 81. of all games moste proueth mannes witte . And Sir Thomas Eliot in his Booke , entituled the Gouernour , saithe , That the Chesse , of all games , wherein is no bodily exercise , is moste to be commended : for therein is right subtile engyne , whereby the witte is made more sharpe , and remembrance quickened . And it is the more commendable , and also commodious , if the players haue readde the Moralization of the Chesse , & when they playe , doo thinke vpon it . Which bookes be in English : but they be very scarce , because fewe men doo seeke in playes for vertue or wisedome . In the olde time , it was the playe of Noble men : and therefore the Table thereof is not vnworthy to be borne in armes . Et sic deinsignijs Scaccatis ad presens satis dictum est .

Before in this booke I haue partely touched signes , or tokens borne in armes by diuers Nobles , & other Gentletlemen , which I could not omit , by reason of the vsinge of so many examples . Therfore nowe hereafter shal folowe generally the blazon of beastes , foules , fishes , and other thinges quicke & deade , borne in Cote armour , and of them ye shal see a great number of examples : as of sundrie diuisions of Cote armours , charged with any of the honourable Ordinaries , especial or general , of Quadrates Royal , and other thinges Armoriall , not vnworthy to be redde , and borne in memorie .

There are sene & found oftentimes in the armes of diuers excellent & noble persons , Tractes , or Traces . Tractes , simple , or plaine , & the same otherwhile engrailed on both partes , and enuecked , sometime double traced , & floried , & is then called a double Treasure , or Tressure . As in example .

I finde the said armes otherwise descriued in Latin , Scottish king his Armes . without mention made of anye tracte , or Tressour Conterflorie : ( as in an Epistle whiche a certaine knight named Darius Tibertus , wrote to a Prelate called Iulius Caesar Cantelinus , maie appeare in these woordes . ) Tuos Natales Regios non ignorantus ex vtroque Parente . Mater enim ex Banciorum prosapia , Regia est , cum qua affinitatem contrahere Aragonius Ferdinandus non est dedignatus . Cātellinorum verò familiam à Rege ipso Albionis Insulae ( quam Scotiam vocant ) procedere , tum anuales edocent , tum commune etiam insigne declarat . Ruber nempe in auro erectus Leo patenti ore , cauda ad caput reflexa , coloris Cyanei . The Tressure here omitted in the Latine blazon , I yet finde an other diuersitie of a parte of the Lyon , from that whiche is borne of the Scottishe . Difference in the taile ●f a Lyon . For the Caude , or Taile of this Prelate his Lyon , is coloris Cyanei , of a bright blewe colour . This I thoughte good not to omitte , for the rarenesse of the diuersitie . Also because this Lyon here descriued , is a beaste of moste honour , and also is called kinge of beastes . Leo autem Grecè , Latinè Rex interpretatur : eò quòd sit Princeps omnium bestiarum .

Lyon . I meane somwhat to treat of him , & his excellencie far passinge other beastes . I reade , that at his voice all other beastes dreade , and stinte sodainely . And in his Regalitie he maketh a circle about them with his tayle , so that al the beastes stande in greate feare to passe out ouer the line of his circle . And thus they stande astonied , and afraid , as it were , abidinge the Heste , and commaundemente of their kinge . Plinie saith , that the Lyon is in moste gentlenesse and Nobilitie , when his necke and shoulders be healed with heare and mayne . This his Nobilitie , especially is espied when he rampeth . And the Lyons that be shorte , with crispe heare or mayne , Etymo . Lib. 12 ca. 2. Imbelles sunt : as Isidore saith . And suche Lyons fighte not .

Nowe I will declare howe many , and sundrie wayes they are borne in armes , as Passante , Rampant , Saliant , Seiante , Couchante , Darmante , &c. And also of sundrie fourmes and fashions , Diuersitie of bearing Lyons as Gardante , Regardante , Dors an Dors. i. Backe to backe , or endorsed , Combattante , Dimidiated , Parted , Couped , Dismembred , Uulned , Bicapited , Bicorporated , Tricorporated , Umbrated , or Shadowed . Their tayles forked , nowed , resignante , reuerberante , descendante , percussed , and contercoloured . In all these fourmes , or likenesses they are descriued , and pictured : as also otherwise ensigned or marked , then here is remembred . Wherefore I will presently write more , bothe of his bearinge diuersly , and of his sundrie natures and properties .

1. Beareth Sable , Segraue . a Lyon rampante d'Argent , crowned , by the name of Segraue .

2. Beareth Uert , Lyon Salian●e a Lyon Saliante d'Or . The difference , betwene these Lyons , the one Rampante , and the other Saliante , is plainely in the saide Escocheons figured , accordinge to M. G. Leigh his description , in the Accidence of Armorie .

The Lyon when he pursueth man , or beaste , vseth to leape , and so he dothe not when he voideth , or fleeth . If a man shoote at him , the Lyon chasteth him , and throweth him downe , but neither woundeth him , ne hurteth him .

Isidore saithe , that there is one kinde of Lyon , whiche hathe ragged heare and mayne . And suche a Lyon is sharpe , Isidor . Lib. 12 Cap. 2. and fierce of harte . Animos eorum frons & cauda indicat . Virtus eorum in pectore , firmitas in capite . Thus it appeareth , that theire courage , vertue , and stedfastnesse is knowne by their heades , breastes , and tayles .

Isidore saithe , that the Lyons eies are as though he were awake , when he sleapeth . Cum a●rmierint , vigilant oculi . They dreade noyse , and russhing of wheles , but fire muche more . Rotarum timent strepitus , sed ignes magis . Modicè dormiunt . Haec ille .

At lengthe yet beinge wearie of suche a lothesome life , he lefte the Caue , and came abroade , by meanes whereof he was taken againe . And beinge a slaue to his Maister , ( who had power of life and deathe ouer him ) he was condemned to be caste to the wilde beastes at Rome , there to be deuoured of a Lyon .

The poore caitife stoode pitiefully in the sight of thousandes , euer lookinge when he shoulde be deuoured . It happened at the same time , when this felowe was thus adiudged to die , that the same Lyon was taken , whose foote he healed in the woode . When the Lyon was put to him , he came firste very terribly towardes this felowe , and immediately knowinge what he was , stoode stil , and at lengthe fawned gently vpon him . The felowe , at first being amazed , began to take harte vnto him afterwardes , as halfe knowing him likewise , and thus they began both to take acquaintaunce the one of the other , Thankefulnes of a Lyon . and plaide together a good space without all danger . Whereupon the people beinge amazed , muche woondered at the straungenesse of this thinge . And standinge thus astonyed , they sente to knowe of the slaue , what this matter shoulde meane . Vidd Aul. Gel. Noc. Atti. Lib. 5. Cap. 14. Unto whom this poore wretche opened the whole thinge altogether , euen as it happened . When the people hearde this , they not onely reioyced much at the sight thereof , but also they made earnest requeste to his maister for his life . His maister marueilinge as muche as any of them at suche an vnwoonted kindenesse : gaue him , not onely his life , but also his freedome .

And nowe , to the ende he might haue somewhat whereupon to liue , the people gaue him a Fee for terme of his lyfe . The felowe by and by gotte him a Lyne , and a Coller , and carried the Lyon vp and downe the Cittie , in suche sorte , as Huntesmen carry a Greyhound , or a Spaniell , the people stil woondringe , Leo hospes hominis : homo medicus Leonis . and sayinge euer as he came by : Behold a man that hathe cured a Lyon : behold a Lyon that hathe saued a man .

Hereby the thankefulnesse of the Lyon is to be noted , and the example to be marked of all suche , as woulde accoumpte them selues , either more naturall , or kinde , then the Lyon . And let vs not doo that , whiche brute beastes haue not seemed to doo , but learne to be kinde one to an other , and thankefull .

Of the properties , or nature of the Lyon , I neede write no more , but I will you to reade Aristotle , Plinie , Isidore , Solinus , and Bartho . De proprietatibus rerum . And there you shall finde a large fielde of them .

And who so desireth to knowe the difference betwene Lyons Gardante , and Regardante , &c. then let him peruse M. G. Leighe his Accidence of Armorie , and there he shal be resolued in the most of them . Yet hereafter shal be descriued the sundrie bearinge of diuerse Lyons in seuerall fieldes , and amongest other tokens of Armes .

I reade , that there be certaine people betweene Indie , and Cathaye , Pigmei . Cubite . called Pigmei , of stature but one Cubite longe , whiche contayneth one foote and an halfe . And Plini saith , that they bee armed in yron , & fight with Cranes , & do ride on goate buckes , and haue arrowes , and dartes , to shoote and caste at Cranes , that pursue them . In the springe time they gather an Hoste , and comme to the Sea , and destroye bothe theire egges , and byrdes , with all theire mighte , and strength . They make many suche voyages , whiche if they lefte vndone , Cranes would so much there encrease , and be so many , that the Pigmei coulde not withstande them . And somme write , that they arraye them so with feathers , as thoughe they hadde wynges . And of their battaile with Cranes , and of their stature , I finde it thus written : Vide Plin. li. 7. Cap. 2. Pigmei homuntiones sunt paruuli in India , vnius tantum cubiti statura , vel etiam breuiores , qui cum gruibus auibus assiduè certant , ab eisque vincuntur saepissimè . Isidore ( because of their smal stature ) calleth them , Nani , Dwarfes . And the Grecians call them Pigmeos : Isidor . Ety . li. 11. Cap. 3. Eò quòd sint statura cubitales .. But who so euer will reade a proper Embleme of them , see Alciate Lib. 1. Emblem . 20.

Of the nature of the Crane , yee maie reade hereafter , in this Booke , where specially I entreate thereof .

Phisiologus speaketh of Syrena , & saith , it is a beaste of the sea , in shape wonderfull , as a maide from the Nauell vpward , and a fish from the nauel downewarde . This beaste is glad , & mery in tempest , & heauy & sad in faire weather . Shee causeth shipmen to sleape with the swetenesse of her songe : and when she perceiueth them to be on sleape , shee entreth the shippe , and so vseth one of them , whom shee best liketh , as here is not to be spoken , or beleued .

Probleme . There is a beaste marueilous to see , The which in sooth , at his natiuitie Is of his might , so tender , and so greene , That he may him selfe not sustaine Vpon his feete , though he had it sworne . But if that he be of his Mother borne , And afterwarde , by processe of age , On foure feete he maketh his passage . And then vpon three , if I shall not faine , And alderlaste , he goeth vpright on twaine : Diuerse of porte , and wonderfull of cheeres , Till by length of many sundrie yeeres Naturally , he goeth againe on three , And sithen on foure , it maie none other be . And finally , this is the trothe plaine , He recouereth kindely againe To the matter , which that he came fro . Loe here my Probleme is all idoo . Muse thereupon without warre or strife , It to declare , or els leese thy life . Thilke beaste ( qd Oedipus ) thou spake of heretofore , Oedipus expoundeth the Probleme , or Riddle . Is euery man into this world ibore , Which may not goe his limmes be so softe , But as his Mother beareth him alofte In her armes , when he dothe crie , or weepe . And after that he ginneth for to creepe On foure feete in his tender youthe By experience , as it is ofte couthe Aforne reckened , his handes both twoo . And by processe , thou maist consider also , With his twoo feete , for all thy fell tene , He hathe a staffe , him selfe to sustene . And then he goeth shortely vpon three , And alderlaste , as it muste needes be . Voiding his staffe , he walketh vpon twaine , Till it so be , through age he attaine That luste of youth wasted be and spente . Then in his hande he taketh a potente , And on three feete thus he goeth againe , I dare affirme , thou maist it not with saine . And soone after , through his vnweeledy might , by influence of natures right , And by experience , as euery man maye knowe , Like a childe , on foure he creepeth lowe . And for that he maie here no while soiourne , To earth againe , he must in haste returne , Whiche he came fro , he maie it not remeue . For in this world , no man maie eschewe This very sothe , shortely and no doubte , When the wheele of kinde commeth aboute , And naturally hathe his course ironne , By circuit , as dothe the sheere sunne . That man , & childe , of high , and lowe estate , It gayneth not , to make more debate . His time is isette , that he must fyne , When Atropos , of malice dothe vntwyne His liues threede , by Clotho first compouned . Lo here thy probleme , fully is expouned . The description of Sphinx by Io. Lydgat This Monster had also by description , Body , and feete of a fierce Lyon . And like a maide , in soth was heade and face , Fell of his looke , and cruell to menace .

The description of this Monster is more aptly declared in Latin by Alciate , Embl. 46.

Although this be a Monster horrible , yet Augustus Caesar , at the firste entrie into his Empire , vsed the same for his singular , or most secret Ensigne : as ye maie reade in the booke entituled , Heroica M. Claudij Paradini . Fol. 21.

The third kinde of Simies , or Apes , Ape Cenophe are called Cenocephali , whiche are in all proportions of the bodye , like to the common sorte of Apes : but in the face moste like vnto an hounde . Vnde & nuucupati .

The Apes , Ape Satyre . called Satyri , are pleasante in face , and of a merye countenaunce , and often mouinge , and playinge . And these be the fourth kinde of Apes .

The fifte kinde of Apes are called Callitrices . These in the face haue a longe bearde , Ape Callitrice . and a broade tayle . Apes are wise , or skilfull of the Elementes . They are merye , and reioice at the newe of the Moone , but at the full , and waning , they are triste , and sadde . Their yonge ones , whom they loue beste , Foetus suos impatienter diligit Simius . they carrie before them , and are so impatiently in loue with them , that with muche embracinge , they doo often styfle , and kill the same , as Plinie saithe .

The field is Sable , two Heronsewes d'Argent . And to this Crest vpon the helme on a wreath d'or , Satyre . & Azure , a Satyr proper , manteled Gules , dobled d'argent . These Satyres ( as Isidore saith ) ben somwhat like men , hauing croked noses , & hornes in the foreheade , & feet like vnto goates feete . Such an one sawe S. Anthonie in the wildernes . Qui interrogatus à Dei seruo , respondisse , fertur , dicens : Mortalis ego sum vnus ex accolis Heremi , quos vario deluso errore , gentilitas Faunos , Satyrosque colit . This Satyre is also called Faunus , aliàs Pan , Deus Rusticorum , et Pastorum à Poëtis fingitur .

Hee deliteth to bee in woodes , Leonic . lib. ● . ca. 24. de var. Histor. and on hyghe hylles . Hee was worshipped as a God of the husbandmen , and herde kepers in Arcadie , whiche countrey is full of hylles , and aboundante of flockes of shepe . Leonicus sayeth , that Fauni , bee the same , whiche are called Satyri , and Syluani , and are monstres in Ethiope , of the shape of man , yet hauing hornes , berdes , and feete like to goates , beyng also very swift and lecherous . Of thys , and manye others , that haue the shape of men and of beastes , ye maye reade in Plynie , Solinus , Paschasius , Isidore , &c. yet of some of them more hereafter shal be spoken in theire places .

Centaure . The Centaure is an other monstre , and taketh hys name ( as Isidore sayeth ) for that hee is of a mixte kynde , the one halfe of man , the other halfe like an horsse . These were supposed to bee horssemen of the countrie of Thessalia , which pricked vp and down of horsses , and therefore some of them semed that Horsse and man were one bodye : Inde Centauros fictos asseruerunt .

Hyen . Thys is a cruell beaste , in quantity like vnto the wolfe : & he is called Hyena of Hyando , for that hee reyseth to hys praye with open mouth and voyce , and in hys necke is heare , as in the necke of an horsse , and vpon al the length of hys ridge also . Hee commeth to houses by nyghte , and feyne●h speache of mankynde , and calleth some man by hys name , and when he hath hym without the dores , he deuoureth hym : Likewyse , doth he houndes , as gladly as men , by suche hys feyned speache . It is wondrefull what Plinye , Aristotle , Solinus , &c. writte of thys Beaste .

Tigre . The Tygre is abeaste wondrefull in strength , and moste swifte in flighte , as it were an arrowe . For the Persians call an arrowe Tigris . Hee is distingued with diuerse speckes : and of hym the floode Tigris toke the name : qd is rapidissimus si● omnium fluuiorum . Thys flode is in Armenye , and the Tygre is bredde there also . It is saide , that Bacchus vsed these beastes in hys chariot , for theire meruelous swiftenes in conueyng of the same .

The Panther , is frende to all Beastes , saue the Dragon , for hym hee hateth full sore . This beaste hath on his skinne litle rounde spottes , some blacke , and some white : and all fower foted beastes haue likynge to beholde his colours : And therfore , where hee is , thither will they resorte , because of the swete sauour that commeth from hym , which the Dragon onely can not abyde . And though the Panthere bee a ryghte cruell beaste , yet hee ys not vnkynde , to them that helpe or succourre hym : as Plinye putteth an example of one , that delyuered and helped vp a Panther hys whelpes , that were fallen into a ditche , & the Panther lad hym out of the wildernes with glad semblance , and fawned on hym , and as it semed in a maner thancked hym ryght hartely .

The Parde , Parde . nexte to the Panther , ( as Isidore sayeth ) is the moste swifte Beaste , & preceps ad sanguinem . Saltu enim ad mortem ruit . Hee hath diuerse rounde speckes in hys skinne , as the Panther . And varieth not from hym in colour , but onely that the Panther , ( as Plinie witnesseth ) is more full of white speckes .

The Leoparde also is a Beaste most cruell , Leoparde . and is gendred in spouse breache of a Parde , and a Lyonesse , & tertiam originem efficit , vt dicit Isidorus . Plinye , in hys naturall hystorie , sayeth : that the Lyon gendreth with the Parde , or the Parde with the Lyonesse , & ex vtroque coitu degeneres partus creari : & of suche gendring commeth vnkinde pardes , as of an horsse , and of a she Asse , or of mare , and a male Asse , is gendred a Mule The Leoparde hath diuerse coloures , as the Parde hath : and pursueth hys praye stertelynge and leaping , and not runnyng . But yf hee take not hys praye in the thirde leape , or in the fowerth : then hee stinteth for indignacion , and goeth backewarde , as though he were ouercome , and is lyke to a Lyon in bodie , tayle , and fete : but in the shape of the heade hee is like to the Parde . Hee is muche lesse in bodye then the Lyon , and therefore hee dreadeth the Lyon .

Thys Beaste of the Grekes is called Monoceron : id est Vnicornis : for that hee hath in the myddle of hys foreheade an Horne of fower fote longe : & that horne is so sharpe , and so strong , that he throweth downe or thirleth all that he reyseth on . He fighteth ofte with th' Elephante , and woundeth hym in the wombe , and so throweth hym downe to the grounde . Also hys strength is such , that hee is not taken with anye power or myghte of hunters , sed sicut asserunt qui naturas animalium scripserunt , A Mayde is set there as hee shall come , who openeth her lappe , and the Vnicorne leauing all hys fiercenes , layeth thereon hys heade , and then falleth on slepe , and so is taken or slayne with dartes of hunters , asthoughe nature had geuen hym no armoure , to defende hym withall .

H. Beareth Sable and Gules , parted with a Cheuron betwene three heddes Rhinocerontez coped d'Argent .

This Beaste of the Grekes is called Rhynoceron , Rhynoceron . for that hee hath an horne in hys nosethrille : and differeth but in that one parte from the Vnicorne . Hornes . Hornes bee geeuen to beastes by nature , to defende them with , in steade of armoure and weapon , and bene therfore sett in the ouermost parte of the heade , that they maye alwayes bee readye , to withstande theire enemies , and to defende the wrongs offered vnto them : But to these two beastes next before descriued , nature hath otherwise placed theire hornes , might , and power , as in the middest of their foreheade , and nosethrylles .

Upon these beastes the Persians and Medes vsed to fighte in towers of tree , and out thereof threwe and caste dartes , as it were out of towers or castles . And as it is redde of that Elephante , hee is more easie to bee tamed , and more obedient to man , than any other wilde beaste .

Elephante . The Elephant his nose is longe and greate , and harde as an horne : and hee vseth hys nose , in steade of an hande , takyng thereby meate and drincke , and putteth it in hys mouth : & est angui similis , vallo munitus eburneo .

The Elephante whan hee sitteth bendeth hys feete , & maye not bende all fower at once , for heuynes and weighte of hys bodye : but bendeth the hynder legges right as a man . He lyeth neuer downe to sleape , by reason of the hugenes of hys bodye : wherfore when hee is wearie , he leaneth to a tree , and so resteth hym some what . Hee lyueth three hundreth yeare as Isidore sayeth . Also it is written of them , that yf they see a man comming agaynste them in the wildernes , yf hee bee oute of hys waye , for that they woulde not affraye hym , they will drawe themselfes some what oute of the waye , and so passing softely by little and lyttle before hym , they ( as it were ) teache hym the waye . And yf the Dragon ( betwene whom and hym , is perpetuall wrath and stryfe ) come agaynst the man , then they defende hym , and fighte with the Dragon . Thys they doe especially whan they haue yonge foles , for they dreade the man seeketh theire foles : And therefore they firste deliuer them of the man , that they maye the more surely kepe and fede theire yonge ones . Apud solam Africam & Indiam Elephanti prius nascebantur : nunc sola eos India gignit .

He beareth verte , Griffon . a Griffon sergreant siluer ; winged d'Or .

ij . Beareth Argente a fesse , betwene three Gryphons heades rassed sable . Thys coate appertaineth to Hals of Kenedon̄ in Deuonshire .

The Griffon is a beaste with wynges , and is fower foted , and also like vnto the Lyon in all partes of the bodie , and to the Egle onely in the heade and wynges . Hee is strong enemye to the horsse , and is of suche might as he is able to take vpp an horsse and a man armed vpon hym . Hys Clees or talentes are so great and large , that of them bee made Cuppes , to set vppon bordes or tables of kynges and prynces . Hoc genus ferarum in Hiperboreis montibus nascitur : In these mounteynes , is plentye of Golde & precious stones , as Smaragdus , Iaspis , & Christal , which the Gryffons kepe , and suffer them not to be taken from thence , as dyuerse writers affirme the same . And of an other maner bearyng thys beaste , take here an other example .

The fielde is d'Or , a Gryffon sergreant Sable , on a mountayne verte . Here hee is displayde in hys proprietie and dominion .

Thys is a lyttle beaste , and hathe not one coloure of hys bodye , but changeth ful soone and often into dyuerse coloures , excepte redde and whyte , hys face is , as it were a beaste compouned of a swyne and of an Ape , beyng like to the Ewte in the bodye . Hys sydes bee euen longe to the nether parte of hys wombe , as it were a fishe : and hys ridge bones bounche vpward , hys tayle is full longe , & smal at th' ende , hys feete bene shorte , & hath clees , like to the clees of a Birde , & all his body is roughe & sharpe , as the bodie of a Bardan . Hys most might and strengthe ys agaynste the kynde of Gossehawkes : for hee draweth vnto them , and they flee vnto hym , and so hee taketh them wilfully to other beastes to be deuoured . But what beaste soeuer it bee , he is accompted among cleane beastes .

He liueth by the ayre : Semper hyans , & aperto ore , quo solo viuit , & nutritur , attrahens , & respirans . Oculos habet semper corpori concolores , eos nunquam claudit , nec pupillam mouet .

Phisiologus writethe , that the Wolfe cannot bende his necke backewarde in no moneth of the yeare , but in Maye onely , when it thundreth . Solinus saithe , that in his tayle he beareth a locke of heare , whiche exciteth loue : and dothe it awaie with his teethe , when he dreadeth to be taken .

Wolfe Ethiope . Isidore saith , that in Aethiopia bene Wolfes with heary maynes in their necke , and on their bodie so spotted with variable colours , that they lacke no manner of colour .

Wolfe Indie . Aristotle saithe , that in Indie is a Wolfe righte cruell , that hathe the face , or countenaunce of a man , feete like vnto the Lyon , and tayle as a Scorpion . His voice much soundeth as it were a mannes voice . He is as swifte as an Harte , and also full hardie , and fierce .

The Hounde is a beaste full ingenious , and hath mind of diffuse , and longe waies : so that if they loose their maisters , they goe by furre space of Lands , and Countries to theire maisters houses againe . If an hound by euil bringynge vp , be made to be cruell , yet suche his cruelnesse abateth to a meeke man . For Plinie saithe , that amonge beastes , that dwell with vs , houndes , and horses be moste gratious , and louinge . The said Cote appertaineth to M. Hundegate in Yorkeshire .

This is the aunciente Cote armour of the Mallyuerey of Wodersom in Yorkeshire . Mallyuery .

2. The field is parted per Pale Nebule , Carboncle , and Diamonde , twoo Greyhoundes Saliante Regardante of the Perle . The Greyhounde is righte cruell , & fierce in pursuinge , and takinge of wilde beastes , and is full milde , and gentle to men , and to tame beastes . His Nobilitie , and gentlenesse is knowne by the length of his face , and snowte , as also by the breadthe of his cheaste , & smalnesse of the wombe , and slanke . He is beste to be liked , when he hathe longe eares and plyante , longe legges and small , for they be needefull to cause him to be the more swifte in course and runninge . His tayle is more longe and crooked , then the tayles of other houndes : and hathe lesse fleshe , and shorter heare , and more thinne & smothe . For if he be too roughe , or hearye , he shoulde then be too hote in his game . And if he be flesshie , he then wil runne the woorse .

Such dogges were presented to the great Alexander by the king of the Sophites in India , who , to shewe their force & propertie , put foure of them vnto a greate Lyon , which straite waies caughte him faste . And when the keeper of the dogges woulde haue taken one of them by the legge to plucke him from the Lyon , he woulde not loose his holde , no not when his legge was cutte of with a sworde : but sticked neuerthelesse vnto his game , and so was cutte asunder in peece meale , till suche time as he died : hauinge yet his teethe still fastened in the Lyons fleshe . Suche a feruentnes nature had wrought in those beastes .

The fielde is Mercury , an Equicerue , Equicerue . of the Moone . Equiceruus , is a beaste in the Orient hauynge hornes , and along maine to the shoulders , & a berde vndre hys chynne : & fete rounde like an horsse , & is as greate as an harte .

A Buffe in Latyne is called Tarandulus● , Buffe . which is a beaste like an Oxe also , but he hath a bearde like a Goate .

C. Beareth Gules , Bull. a Bull passante , d'Or . Bulles of Inde bene yealowe , verie swifte and cruell , and can turne about their neckes , whiche waye they will , in wondrefull maner . They bee rugged of heare , and also so harde in the backe as flynte : so that the shotte of dartes can not hurte them , and therefore are not ouercome : But when any one of them is tyed vnder a figge tree , hee leeseth all hys fiersenes , and becometh sodeinly sobre and mylde .

The Bull sauage is alwayes fierse whan hee is taken , & therefore destroyeth hymselfe , & dieth for indignation .

F. Beareth verte , a Cammell passante , d'Or . The Camell is full swifte , as Plinye sayeth : and is therfore good in battayle , also in warre , and to beare charge & cariage . Aristotle sayeth , the Camel moueth first the right fote as the Lyon doth , cum pes sinister non transit dextrum , sed subsequitur . He is Cloue footed , & hath onely a bonche on his back , & some haue twayne . Camelus proprium inter caeteras quadrupedes habet in dorso , quod tuber appellant : sed ita , vt Bactrianae ab Arabijs differant . Alteris enim hiua , alteris singula tubera habentur . Hee liueth more than 50. yeares , & equis odio naturali aduersatur . His fleshe is wondreful swete , and so is the mylke . Cameli feminae . Nonnulli superioris Asia incolae camelos , vel ad tria millia possident .

Theire chefe office is to trauell , and to beare men in chiualrie . Hys mortall enemye is the Beare , and contrarie wyse , the Greyhounde is hys frende .

The fielde is parted per paile , Rubye and Emeraude , an Asse sauage passante of the Perle , Asse sauage . vnguled Diamonde . This beaste of the Grekes is called Onager , whiche by interpretacion is a wilde Asse , and is a free beaste , large of bodye , & not tamed . Hee haunteth in mountaynes and woddes , & by the lyghtenes of his bodye , in rennyng , he ouercometh both the Lyon and the wolfe . Hee maye well awaye with thriste , and suffereth it long . It is written in the Psalmes . Potabunt onagri inisiti sua . Psall. 104. Thys Beaste is wise and wittie , and feruently loueth hys female , hee hateth greately the company of men , and loueth well deserte places .

The fielde is parted per Fesse , Iupiter and Saturne , a goate saliant of the moone . Goate . The Goate is a beaste , lasciuum & petulcum , & feruens semper ad coitum , cuius oculi ad libidinem in transuersum aspiciunt . Vnde & nomen traxit . Nam hirci , sunt oculorum angul● secundum Suetonium : cuius natura adeò calidissima est vt Adamantem lapidem , quem nec ig●is nec ferri domare valet materia , solus huius cruor dissoluat . The goate hath vnder the chinne a berde called Armitum . Armitum . The vse of goates & shepe is nedeful to mankynde : for they fede the hongrye with mylke and with fleshe , & clothe the naked with fell & with woll , & amende the lande with theire vrine & donge . Also nothing is in the goates bodie , but it is good and profitable , either to the vse of meate , and clothing , either els to the nedefull vse of medicine .

H. Beareth verte , Ha●e . on a cheife dented Argente , an Hare propre . The Hare excelleth in lightnes of membres & limmes , & therfore is verie swifte in course & running , to kepe him from houndes & other beastes that pursue hym . Kynde geueth vnto hym moche heare vnder hys fete , that therby hys fleshe is not hurte in renning . Hys hynder legges be longer than the farther , whiche is nedefull , to rere the bodie whan he fleeth , & that causeth hym to be harder to take whan hee runneth against the hill , than whan he runneth downewarde to the valey . The Hare ( sayeth Aristotle ) is wittie and fearefull , as hartes and conyes are . retro vrinam mittunt , auersa coeunt , vt Leones , Lynces , Leporum etiam faemina

saepènumero marem prior superuenit . Leporum genus quoddam videtur habere bina iecora .

The fielde is Sable , an hartes heade cabazed d'Or , attyred verte , betwene two flasques d'Argente billetie of the firste , & to the creaste on a torce d'or & Gules an Harte regardante d'Argente , Harte . iczante a branche of Dictamie propre , & vulned with a darte verte .

Hartes bene enemyes to serpentes , & when they f●le them selfes greued with sickenes ▪ they goe to the serpentes dennes , and drawe them out with the breathe of theire nosthrilles : and ouercome the malice of theire venyme , so as they recouer theire sickenes with feadyng of them . Mirantur autem sibilum fistularum : erectis auribus acutè audiunt : submissis nihil . Plinye sayethe , that the harte is a most pleasing beaste , and renneth wilfully , so that whan hee is ouerset with houndes , hee than fleeth to man , as for helpe . Aristotle sayethe , that hee casteth hys hornes euery yere , in the moneth of Aprile , quae cum amiserit occultat . Cornu cerui sinistrum non inuenitur . It is written that hys lyfte horne was neuer founde : occulit enim id tanquam quodam medicamento preditum . Serpentes voyde and flee th' odoure or smell of the brenynge of an hartes horne . And although the harte is armed with hornes , the Hynde thereof , inops mutilaque est . They dreade most the voyce of a Foxe , and of an hounde .

Gabriel Symeon Symbolis heroycis . The Harte taught first the vertue of the herbe Dictamum for when they are wounded with arowes or dartes , they seke and fynde out the sayd herbe , and eate thereof : wherby theire woundes are healed , and caste the arowes with the arowe heades out of theire bodies . Thys herbe groweth plenteously in Candie , or in the Isle of Crete . The Harte is a wise deare , for when hee is fatte , quod valde temporis fructuum sit , he departeth into straunge places farre of , as knowing that by reason of hys corpulencie and fatnes , he may the rather be taken and killed . He fleeth into ryuers and waters , Propter aestum atque anhelitum . Caro eorum libidinis tempore vitiatur & faetet , perinde quasi hircorum , Hyeme itaque extenuantur , debilitanturque . Verè autem vigent maximè ad cursum . He liueth aboue an hundreth yeares , as is to be rede of the hartes that liued in Alexandre the great hys tyme , that were taken an hundreth yeares after hys deathe , the whiche in hys lyfe tyme , hee had ensigned with cheines of golde about theire neckes . And of the lyfe of the Harte , Aristotle thus sayeth . Vita esse perquam ▪ longa hoc animal fertur , sed nihil certi ex hijs quae narraentur● , videmus : nec gestatio , aut incrementum hinnuli ita euenit , quasi vita esset prelonga .

I. Beareth Or , on a bende , cotized with two cotizes , Sable , Firrets . thre Firrrets d'Argente . The Firret is a little beaste , as it were a wesil , ful subtil and rauenous . Aristotle sayeth that he hateth horsse and mules , and greueth them moche . But hee fighteth agaynste serpentes , and for that purpose armeth hym with Rue , as doth the wesill , whan he prepareth hymselfe to fighte with the Basiliske .

The fielde is verte , thre Rooes or Capres sauage , in paile betwene two flasques d'Argente . Rooes . The Capre , or Roo is like vnto an hynde calffe , but changeth not the teth , as the other doth : and hath right fayre and pleasaunt eyne , & also sharpe : and is called in Latyne Capra syluestris , because she is most conuersante in woddes and deserte places . Aristotle sayeth , that these Capres , or Roes ( as we Englishmen call them ) helpe them selfes wisely whan they bee wounded , & seke the herbe , Dictamum tale est , viresque ciusmodi possidet . Pulegium ceruinum , and eate therof to drawe th' arowes oute of theire bodies , yf they bee stricken therewith . They are most swifte of mouyng and runnynge , & so moche more is theire fleshe sweter , and tender . They defende them selfes in woddes and laundes , from hunters and there houndes , not with theire feete , hornes & teeth , but onely by swiftnes of flight .

K. Hys fielde is d'Ermine , on two Flaunches Gules , two Goates sauage d'Argent .

Goates are called in Latyne Capri , Goate sauag● and Caprae , a carpendis virgultis . And manye men saye , they are so called , a crepitu crurum : vnde eas creas vocitatas : quae sunt caprae agrestes . And some saye , they haue that name , for that they clymbe on harde cragges , and so hyghe , that vneth they maye be seene with mans eyes . The wilde Goate is verie swifte in runnyng , most lyght in leapyng , most sharpe in sighte , most swete in taste , most tender and wholesome to meate , and most busye to gather hys owne meate . For the Goate knoweth the diuersitie of herbes , of trees , of twigges , of braunches , and of sprays , whiche they eate of , & fede themselfes , by sight , taste , and smell . Haec itaque animalia vt diximus in petris altissimis commorantur : vt si quando ferarum vel hominum aduersitatem persenserint , de altissimis saxorum cacuminibus sese praecipitantes , in suis se cornibus illaesas suscipiunt .

The fielde is of the Topaze , a Basiliske displayed , Emeraude , cristed , Saphire . And for the Creaste vppon the helme an Hiricion passante , of the Diamonde , charged with Grapes propre , sett on a torce , Pearle , and Emeraude , manteled Rubie , doubled Pearle . The signe displaide in the saide Cote armour , is of somme called a Cocatrice , but of the Greekes he is called Basiliscus . Cockatrice . And the Latines cal him Regulus , for that he is kinge of Serpentes , and Soueraigne ouer them all : Adeo vt cum videntes , fugiant . For with his breathe , and smell he killeth them . Yea , man him selfe , Si aspiciat , interimit . And at his sighte , no byrde that fleeth , escapeth vnhurte . But although they be a farre of , yet are they deuoured with his burninge breathe . Notwithstandinge , he is ouercome of the Weasil , Weasill . Quae quoties dimicatura cum eo est , Rutam comedit : odor etenim eius herbae infestus serpentibus est . The Basiliske , when he seeth the weasil so armed , fleeth : whom shee foloweth , and killeth . Nihil enim parens ille rerum sine remedio constituit . This Serpente is but halfe a foote of lengthe , and enterlined with white spottes . Sibilus . Isidore saithe , that Sibilus idem est , qui & Regulus . Sibilo enim occidit , antequam mordeat , vel exurat .

And as the Basiliske aboue descried , with his Diademe , called in Latin , Cristia , is almoste the leaste amonge other Serpentes , so is the little Hiricion with his sharpe pykes , almoste the leaste of all other beastes . And of vs English men he is termed an Irchin , Irchin , or Vrcheon . or Vrcheon . Latinè , Hericius . A beaste so called for the roughnesse , and sharpenesse of his prickes , whiche nature hathe geuen him in steade of heare . And such his pykes healeth , or couereth his skinne , as the heare dothe the other beastes : and bene his weapon , and armoure , wherewith he pricketh , and greeuethe them , that take , or touche him . Nam statim vt aliquid presenserit , primum se subrigit : atque in globum conuersus , in sua se arma recollit . He is a beaste of witte , and good purueiance : for he clymeth vpon a Uine , or an Apple tree , and biteth of their braunches , and twigges : and when they be fallen downe , he waloweth on them , and so they sticke on his prickes : and he beareth them into a hollowe tree , or somme other hole , and keepeth them for meate for hym selfe , and his yonge ones .

Herinaceus , saithe Bartholomeus in his Booke De proprietatibus rerum , Herinaceus . is the same , that Hericius , but he is accoumpted more then he , and is like the Urcheon in all properties , sauing that when he is sufficiently laden with apples on his backe , he wil beare one alwaie in his mouthe . And if , after he is so charged , there happen any to fall from his prickes , then for indignation he throweth from his backe all the other deale , and eftsoones returneth to the tree to charge him againe of newe . The Urcheon is witty , and wise in the knowledge of comminge of windes , Northe , and Southe : for he changeth his Denne , or hole ( as Aristotle saithe ) when he is ware that suche windes comme .

There was one sometime in Constantinople , that had an Urcheon , who knewe , and warned others thereby , that wyndes should come , and on what parte : and thereby gotte greate estimation amonge his neighboures , and was accoumpted as one that could tel of thinges to come .

White Vrcheon . There is also an other Urcheon , that hath a white shel , and white prickes , as Bartlemewe saithe : Sane suo exemplo , & sedulitate animal nos admonet , haud quaquam satis esse , si agros ampliores possideamus , nisi diligentia , & parsimonia vtamur .

Dragon . L. beareth Golde , a Dragon Uerte . Isidore saithe , that the Dragon is the greatest of all Serpentes , or of all lyuinge thinges vpon the earthe . Est autem cristatus , ore paruo , & arctis fistulis , per quas trahit spiritum , et linguam exerat . His greatest strengthe is not in hys teethe , but in hys tayle : Et verbere potius , quàm rictu nocet .

He hathe not so muche venime , as other Serpentes . Betwene him , and the Elephante is perpetuall enimitie , for the Dragon desirous of his bloud , for the temperate coldnesse thereof , to asswage his extreme heate , spaunethe , or wrappeth so his tayle aboute the Elephantes legges , that he cannot escape the deathe . But the Dragon byteth it ful soare : for while he is thus enwrapped with the Dragons tayle , he falleth vpon him with his huge body , and so they are bothe slaine . Draco dissidet cum Aquila . Gignitur autem in Hispania , & in India , in ipso incendio iugis estus . Dissidet Aquila cum Dracone : vescitur enim Aquila anguibus .

This Salamander did the Frenche kinge Fraunces cause to be grauen on the one parte of his coyne , addinge this inscription in the Italian tongue : Nudrisco il bono , & spengo ilreo . Id est , Alor meliore , ac deterius perimo . And the token of the Salamander , he caused also to be pictured in many his Palaices , and places , very pretiously , with this Distiche in the Latin tongue : Vrsus atrox , Aquilaeque leues , & tortilis Anguis , Anagoge . Cesserunt flammae iam Salamandra tuae .

Thus the nature of the Salamander is described , whiche manifestly appeareth , Plinius . Tanto frigore praeditam , vt ignem , velut glacies extinguat .

Iacule . N. beareth Azure , a Iacule d'Argent . This Serpente fleeth as a Darte , and leapeth into trees , and what beaste so euer he meeteth with , he throweth him selfe thereupon , and sleaeth it : Iaculus Serpens volans : vnde & Iaculi dicti sunt . De quo Lucanus : Iaculique volucres .

Stellion . The fielde is Argente , a Stellion proper . Stellio is a beaste like a Lysarde , hauinge on his backe , spottes like starres . And thoughe he be a fayre beaste , yet is he right venemous , as Plinie saithe : Hic autem Scorpionibus adeo contrarius traditur , vt viso eo , pauorem his afferat , & torporem . Inter stellionem , & araneum bellum est . Deuorantur enim aranei à Stellione .

Ceraste . O. beareth Sable , a Ceraste nowey d'Argent . This is an horned Serpente , as Isidore saithe , and hathe hornes in either side of his heade , crooked and wrinkeled , as the hornes of a Ramme . This Serpente sleaethe all beastes , that passe vnwarely by the pathes , where he lyeth with priuie bytinge . And therefore we reade , Fiat Dan sicut Coluber in via , Cerastes in semita .

Aspe . The fielde is Gules , an Aspe obturant her eares d'Or . Aspis vocata , quòd morsu venena immittat , & aspergat . The Aspe , when shee is charmed by the Enchaunter , to come out of her denne by Charmes , or Coniurations : shee not willinge to come forthe , layeth her owne eare close to the grounde , the other shee stoppeth , and couereth faste with her tayle : and so shee heareth not the voice of the Charmer , neither commeth out to him , nor is obediente to his sayinge . And we reade in the Psalmes : Furor illis secundum similitudinem Serpentis : Psalm . 58. sicut Aspidis surdae , & obturantis aures suas . Quae non exaudiet vocem Incantantium : & venefici Incantantis sapienter .

P. beareth Gold , a Boath , Sable , betwene two barres Gemewes Azure . Boas . Boas is a Snake in Italie , great of bodye , and foloweth Greges armentorum , & bubalos : and guilefully setteth him selfe to the vdders of them , and so suckinge , sleaeth them . Whereof also he taketh his name .

Q. beareth Argente , Scitale . on a Pale Uerte , a Scitale , proper .

This Serpente is so called , because he shinethe with suche diuersitie of speckles vpon his backe , that all that looke thereon , haue wonder , and likinge to see him . Et quia reptando pigrior est , quos assequi non valet , miraculo sui stupentes capit .

The fielde is Sable , Amphybene an Amphibene , heade to heade reflexed , d'Argent .

This is a prodigious Serpente , and is called Amphybena , for that he hathe twoo heades , Vt initio , sic & cauda caput : currens ex vtroque capite tractu corporis circulato . This alone of all Serpentes putteth him selfe to the colde , and goeth before all other . He hath a double heade , as though one mouth were too litle to caste his venyme . Cuius oculi lucent veluti lucernae .

Somme Serpentes haue many heades , some doubled , as this nexte before described , somme trebled , &c. as Isidore saithe .

R. beareth Geronnie , of sixe pieces , Or , and Azure , a Dipsez Uerte , Dipse . charged on the firste quarter . Dipsas genus Aspidus , quae Latinè Situla dicitur : quia quem momor derit , siti perit . This is the leaste of all Serpentes , and is so little , that vneth he is seene when men treade on him : and his venyme sleaeth ere it be felte : and he that dyethe by that venyme , fealeth no soare . And so Lucane writeth .

Signiferum iuuenem Tureni sanguinis album Torta caput retro Dipsas calcata remordet , Lucanus . Vix dolor aut sensus dentis fuit .

The fielde is Golde , an Hyder proper . This Serpent hathe many heades , Hydre . & such an one was seene in a Marreis called Lerna , in the Prouince of Archadia . Haec Latinè excedra dicitur : because that if one heade be cutte of , three other growe out of the place thereof . Sed hoc fabulosum est . For it is perfectly to be readde , that Hydra was a place castinge forthe waters , whiche wasted , and destroyed a Cittie nighe therunto . And in this Hydra , if one heade of the streame were stopped , by and by many other streames did breake forthe . Which when Hercules perceiued , he burned the place , and so stopped the courses of the water . And therefore it is saide , that Hercules did kill Hydra the Serpente with fiue heades . Nam Hydra ab aqua dicta est .

Hydros . Hydros aquatilus Serpens à quo icti obturgescunt , cuius quidem morbum Boam dicunt : eo quod fimo bouis remedietur .

Serpente . This Serpente I haue descried , as wringled into a wreathe . Whiche he vseth so to doo in the winter season , by reason of his natural coldnesse . And in the sommer , or heate , he looseth him selfe , and then his bitte , or stinge is deadely . Nam quando sunt frigidi , nullum tangunt . And theire venyme , or poyson hurteth more in the daye time , then in the nighte . Torpent enim noctis Algore & merito : quia frigidi sunt nocturno rore . The Serpent is a beaste of great quantitie . For as Magestenes writeth , there be so huge Serpentes in Indie , that they swalow , and deuoure al whole , bothe Hartes , and Bulles . In Italie , in the time of Claudius Caesar , was a Serpent slaine , and in his wombe was founde a whole childe . Alexander the Greate , in his Epistle , which he wrote to Aristotle his maister , Serpentes cristati . De Situ Indiae , reporteth , that he sawe there cristed Serpentes , somme hauinge twoo heades , somme three . Columnarum grossitudine aliquando proceriores , oribus , squamisque suis humum atterentes . Quorum pectora cum trisulcis linguis fauces exertabant , scintillantibus veneno oculis , quorum halitus quoque erat pestifer . Isidore saithe , that there be many kindes of Serpentes , as , Admodicae , Elephantiae , Chamedrachontes , &c.

The Serpente , for that he deceiued our firste mother Eue , was cursed of God , aboue all cattell , and aboue euery beaste of the fielde . Gene. 3. And therefore vpon his belly shall he goe , and duste shall he eate all the dayes of his life . In naturalibus bonis , Ibidem . quae nobis , et irrationabilibus videmus esse communia , viuacitate quadam sensus Serpens excellit . Vnde & legitur . Serpens autem erat sapientior omnibus pecoribus terrae . The Serpentes heade beinge striken of , yet if it escape with the lengthe of twoo fingers , it neuerthelesse liueth . Vnde & totum corpus obijcit pro capite ferientibus . No beaste moueth the tongue so quickely , as the Serpent dothe , so that thereby he seemethe to haue twoo , or three tongues , when it is but one .

Serpentes autem diu viuere dicuntur : adeo vt deposita vetere tunica , senectutem deponere , atque in iuuentutem redire perhibeantur . It is saide , that a Serpente dare not touche a naked man . Plurimis verò eorum aduersatur saliua hominis .

There is a little Serpente , Serpens Sacer . whiche of somme is called a Sacer , whiche greate Serpentes , and mightie , flee , and auoide . He is but one cubite longe , Species hirsuta . Quicquid momorderit , continuò circiter putrescit .

The Delphine hath the name , because he foloweth mannes voice , or for that he wil harken , & delight to hearethe tune of the Simphoni : and therfore he is called a Symphone , because he hath great liking in harmonie . No fish in the sea is more swift then the Delphin . For oftentimes they are sene to leape ouer ships : whose leaping so , & playing in the sea , betokeneth that some tempest is at hand . Hi propriè Simonides nominantur . Isidorus , li. 12 ca. 6. Etymo . Est & Delphinum genus in Nilo dorso serrato , qui Crocodylos tenera ventrium secantes interimunt .

The Delphine is most meke , louing , & gentle , not only towards his own kind , but also towardes men , & children . When as Arion that excellent Musition & plaier of the Lute shoulde haue bene drowned for his money , Arion . whiche he had gotten by his art , of the shipmen which should haue caried him into his countrey : The Delphins , which a litle before he was cast into the sea , had heard him so swetely play vpon his Lute , receiued him , & one of them taking him vpon his backe , Herodot . li. 1. Histor. brought him safe vnto the shoare . Leonicus de var. Histor. Li. 1. ca. 53. dothe reporte , that he sawe a Delphine quickly to come at the accustomed call of a childe , and to take him on his backe , and oftentimes so to carrie him throughe the sea , Collati in se beneficij memor .

Alciat . lib. 1. Emble . 11. This noble fish knoweth by the smell , if a man drowned in the sea , did eate of his kind . And if the deade man hath eaten thereof , he then eateth him anone . But if he did not eate , he mightily defendeth , and kepeth his body from deuouring of other fishe : and shewinge it , he bringeth the corpse to some cliffe or drie lande with all hys power . Arist. de animal . cap. 48. Their loue also towardes theire owne kynde manifestly appeareth , in that one of them beyng taken at Caria , a great multitude of other Delphynes came together vnto the hauen , & taried there vnto the fisherman whiche did take the Delphyne let him loose againe , whome they all receaued ioyfully , and so returned with hym into the Sea . Paruos item Delphinos magnus aliquis semper comitatur custodiae causa .

The fielde is verte , Whale . a whale nayante Argente , pellette Sable . Thys fishe is called a whale for hys hugenes or greatnes of bodie : which is , as it were a mountaine or hill . Suche was the whale that swalowed Ionas the Prophete , hys wombe or belly was so greate , that it might bee called hell : For the Prophete sayeth . Clamaui de tribulatione mea ad Dominum : & exaudiuit me de ventre inferi .

U. Beareth Golde , Balene . a Balene hariante , Azure . The Balene is a fishe greate and huge , moche like to the whale , & is so called , because of hys outcasting and shedinge of water , for they throwe water hyer than other great fishes of the Sea . Such a like fishe or rather a monstre called Balaena , appeared aswell in the sight of the Tyrians as the Macedons , at the siege of Tyre , whiche liynge vpon hys backe aboue the water , came towardes the mole or pere whiche Alexander the great had caused to bee made agaynste the citie of Tyre : Q. Curtius . lib. 4. and beatyng the water , he lifted vp hymselfe at the head of the Mole , and immediately diued vnder the water agayne , some tyme appearyng aboue , and sometyme vnderneath , and when he came nere the walles of the citie vanished out of sighte .

The fielde is of the Dragons heade , Belue . a Belue , Lune . Thys is a great fishe in the Sea , and is called Belua . He casteth out water at hys iowes , with vapoure of good smell , and other fishe when they fele the same , pursue hym whotely , and delityng after the smell , they enter and come in at his iowes : whom he deuoureth , & so fedeth hymselfe with them .

The water Horsse of the Sea , is called an Hyppotame , for that hee is like an Horsse in backe , mayne , and neaynge : rostro resupinato a primis dentibus : cauda tortuosa : vngulis binis . He abideth in the waters on the daye , and eateth corne by nyghte : & hunc Nilus gignit .

Crocodile . W. Hys fielde is Mercurie a Crocodyle d'Ermyne .

The Crocodile is so called , because he is of the coloure of Safron . Hee lyueth partely on water , partely on lande , & is in fashion like a Dragon , but he hath small eyes , verie long teeth like to a sawe , and lacketh a tonge , and moueth onely th' ouermost iawe , & not the nether , and hath greate nayles and stronge on hys fete : there hath ben seene of them twenty fote longe , and the skynne of hys backe is vnpenetrable . Hee deuoureth not onelye men , but also beastes . Hunc pisces quidam serratam habentes cristam tenera ventrium desecantes interimunt .

Euydros . Enydros , a lyttle beaste so named , for that he frequenteth the waters , is enemye to the Crocodile , whome yf hee finde slepyng , he first tombleth and waloweth hym selfe in dirte and myer , and so entreth through hys mouth into hys belye , and fretynge or persinge all hys inwarde partes , hee commeth forth on lyue oute of hys bowels leauinge hym dead . Crocodilum augeri quandiu viuat . He liueth longe , and groweth bigger and bigger , as longe as he lyueth .

The fielde is verte , on a scocheon golde , a Phagion nayante , gules .

Phagion , or Pagre . Thys fishe the Grecians call fagrum , because he hath so harde teth , that he eateth oysters in the Sea . And therfore he is also called Dentrix , for the multitude and greatenes of hys teeth , and as it were a fishe strongely toothed .

He beareth Argente , Mullet . three Mullettes nayante , propre .

A Mullet is a fishe of meane quantitie , hauyng two barbes or wartes on the nether lyppe , the coloure toward grene , with some yealowe lynes .

The fielde is of the Sunne , Vermante . a Uermante , Iouis .

A Uermante is a fishe of color blue , and is in lengthe lx. cubites , which hath suche strength , that when Elephantes doe come into the water and do dryncke , hee will take one of them by the nose , and plucke hym into hym .

Y. Beareth verte , Muscule . a Muscule nayante , betwene two barres gemewes d'Argente .

Thys is a lyttle fishe , whiche guydeth the whale , that he doe not runne on the rockes .

The fielde is of the Iacinthe , a pyle in poynte d'Ermyne , betwene two Zyphes hariante , Ziphe . Lunae .

This is a fishe whiche is named a sworde fishe , and hath in his nose a bone , like to the scaberde of a Sworde ▪ There is an other fishe , named in Latyne Gladius , and hee is so called , eo quòd rostro maiori nato sit , & ob hoc naues perfossas mergit .

Thys Chymere is a Beaste or monstre hauing thre heades , Chimere . one lik a Lyon , an other like a Goate , the third like a Dragon , fingunt & Chymeram triformem bestiam : ore Leo , postremis partibus Draeco , media Caprea . Quam quidam Philosophi non animal , sed Cilitiae montem esse aiunt , quibusdam locis Leones & Capreas nutrientem , quibusdam ardentem , quibusdam plenam serpentibus . Hunc Bellerephōtes habitabilem fecit , Isidorus . li. 11. cap. 3. Etym. vnde Chymeram dicitur occidisse .

Thys Bellerophontes , or Bellerophon the sonne of Glaucus , kynge of Ephyra , a man of muche beautie and prouesse , was ardently beloued of Stenobea , the wyfe of Pretus kyng of Ephyra , S. Tho. Elirt . next after Glaucus , whan she desired hym to committe auoutrie with her , hee fearinge the vengeaunce of Iupiter , god of hospitalitie , and remembring the frendshipe her husbande had shewed hym , refused , and put her awaye from hym : whiche she disdeigning , and being in a wood rage , accused him to her husband , that he had rauished her : but he like a sobre man , woulde not slea hym in hys owne house , but deliuering hym letters to his wiues father , sent hym into Licya , who perceauing the mynde of Pretus , encouraged , & sent Bellerophon to destroye the two monsters , Solymos , and Chimaera , that hee myght be slayne vnder the coloure of a valiaunt enterpryse . But he atchieuing it nobly , retourned with honor . Thys hystorye foloweth more largely sett forth in the Latyne tongue by Stockhamere , in hys Commentaries vpon the Emblemes of Alciate . Embl. cxj. in these wordes .

Bellerophon filius Regis Glauci , adolescens insignis pulchritudinis & summè virtutis , quem Praetus regno priuatum , sibi seruire iussit . Staenobea vero vxor Praeti eum adamauit , & vt secum stuprum committeret , solicitauit : ille vero lasciuam foeminam repulit , vnde spreta mulier exardens , & dolore repulso indignata , coram Rege , falso illum accusauit , quasi eam fuisset oppressurus : Rex autem hoc audito , & inique ferens , nolens tamen de illo domi paenas sumere , misit eum ad socerum suum Regem Licyae , addita epistola qua crimen continebatur . Rex ille , lectis litteris indignatus , varijs hostibus & periculis Bellerophontem , vt periret , obiecit . Ille vero semper victor euasit , tandem etiam in vltionem criminis missus , vt Chymeram monstrum maximo sub periculo interficeret . Ascendit igitur ille astute admodum Pegasum aequum alatum celerrimum , Strab. lib. 8. quem ex interfectae Medusae sanguine natum fingunt : atque de eo expeditionem sumpsit contra Chimeram , quam deuicit ac interemit , ob hoc laudem nanciscebatur maximam , adeoque vt Rex ille Lyciae alteram suam filiam ei in vxorem dederit , quod audiens vxor Praeti seipsam occidit . Monemur cuncta mala , iniquos etiam & peruersos superandos esse , & supprimendos animi virtutibus , magnanimitate , consilio , & prudentia .

th' eagle hath principalitie ouer al foules , and is most liberal and free of harte . For the praye that he taketh , oneles it be for hongre , hee eateth not alone , but setteth it forthe in common to all the foules that folowe him : and therfore oftentymes other foules frequente hys companye , for hope and truste to haue some parte of hys praye . But when the praye that is take is not sufficient for hymselfe , than as a kynge , that taketh hede of a comminaltie , hee taketh the birde that is next vnto hym , and geueth it among th' other , and serueth them therewith . The Eagle hath that name Aquila , of sharpenes of eyne . He is right strong , bolde , & hardie , farre passinge the strength and boldenes of other byrdes : and hys strength is most in wynges , tallance , and beake . Also he hath many fethers , and therefore he conteaneth moche lyghtenes . The signe of th' Eagle displayde thus with two heads , after the common opinion , begonne to bee borne in standerdes , auncientes , and Banners , in Charles the great hys tyme , Wolfangus Lazius Romanor . Regis Historiographus . to declare hys empire both in the Oriente and Occident . Or rather as Wolfangus Lazius reporteth , in the tyme of Constantyne the great , which of one publicke weale of the Romaynes , obtayned and made two th' one at Rome , and the other at Constantinople .

The Eagle is a byrde , very great , regall , and noble , quae volucrum Regina dicitur , quia altissimè volat : & Iouis ales , vel quia sola contra Solis radios apertis atque immotis oculis volando obtuitum non flectit : vel quia solam nunquam fulmine tactam fertur : ideoque etiam Iouis Armiger a Poetis appellatur , vt Higin . lib. 2. The Eagle is of suche sharpe sighte , that fliynge aboue the Sea so highe , as with mans eyes , she can scarcely be sene , yet she seeth the fishe swimme in the Sea , and descending tormenti instar , she taketh her praye , and flyethe therewith to the shoare . She is righte cruell agaynste her owne byrdes , when as lokyng against the sunne , they close their eyes , for then she supposeth they be not her owne byrdes , and so vt degeneres excludit . The saide coate apperteyneth to master Iohn Dister .

The Eagle in age hath darkenes , and dymnes of eyne , Plinye . with heauynes of wynges . And agaynst these euils , she is taughte by kynde , to seeke a well of springing water : the same founde , she then flyeth vp into the ayre , as farre as she may till she be full hote by heate of the Sunne , and by trauel of flight , so that through suche heate , the pores of her bodye bene opened , and the fethers chafed : and she then falleth sodenly into the wel , and there the fethers bene chaunged , and the dymmes of her eyne is thereby wyped awaye and purged : and thus she recouereth her pristinate vigor and strength . There be also diuerse other kindes of Eagles , and of sondry names , as shal be declared hereafter .

The Eagle called Almachor , Egle Almacher . is full quicke and sharpe of sighte , who takyng her byrdes directeth theire sighte euen agaynst the Sunne , whiche yf they doe not stedfastly beholde , she forthwith beateth them . And yf any of theire eyes do chaunce to water in lokyng agaynste the Sunne , that byrde she sleaeth , a●though he wente out of kynde : and the byrde that stedfastly beholdeth the sunne , and whose eyes doth not watre , hym she loueth , liketh and fedeth .

Th' eagle Amachell taketh her praye on the water , Eagle Amachel . and is dredde of no foules , sauing suche as haue theire liuing and conuersation in the waters onely : and is muche degenerate from the nobilitie and kynde of those Eagles whiche take theire praye in the ayre and on the earthe . Also thys Egle hath one fote closse and whole , as the fote of a Gandre : and therewith she ruleth her selfe in the water , whan she descendeth from an hyghe for her praye : and her other fote is a cloue fote , with full sharpe clees , with the whiche she taketh and holdeth her praye .

The Egle Athat , Eagle Athat . is a gentle Eagle , and thincketh longe tyme of her byrdes , for when they fly , she flyeth with and about them , takyng hede of them : & is readie to withstande other foules , yf so be they come to greue or anoye her byrdes : and therefore is more kynde than other Eagles be to theire Byrdes .

The Faucon , saithe Isidore , is called Capus , à capiendo . Hunc nostri Falconem vocant : eò quòd incuruis digitis sit . He is a Royall fowle , and desireth praye , and vsethe to sitte on his sinister fiste , that beareth him . He is a gentle byrde , bolde , and hardie : and hathe little fleshe in comparison of his body , but greatly arraide with feathers . For Aristotle saith , Falcula auis pennis plurimum valet . And therefore shee is more light to flee . The Faucon , if he faile of his praie at the firste sight , as it were for shame , he fleeth about in the ayre , and then vneth he commeth to his Lordes hande . For he holdeth him selfe ouercomme , and not kindely borne , if he take not the fowle that he fleeth vnto . This said Cote is borne by the name of Faukener .

This is a byrde of Egypte , Habitans in solitudine Nili fluminis . Vnde & nomen sumpsit . The Pellicane feruentlye loueth her byrdes . Pellicane . Yet when thei bene haughtie , and beginne to waxe hore , they smite her in the face , and wounde her , and shee smiteth them againe , and sleaeth them . And after three daies shee mourneth for them , and then strikinge her selfe in the side till the bloud runne out , shee sparpleth it vpon theire bodyes , and by vertue thereof they quicken againe . Hieronymus . Pelicani ( inquit ) quum suos à Serpente filios occisos inueniunt , lugent , seque et sua latera percutiunt , & sanguine excusso , corpora mortuorum sic reuiuiscunt . Volaterranus saithe , the Pellicane to be the same , whiche Plinie calleth Platea .

This is a byrde of Arabie , and so called , Phoenix . Quòd colorem Phoeniceum habeat : vel quòd sit in toto orbe singularis , & vnica . Nam Arabes singularem , & vnicam Phaenicem vocant . This byrde ( as Isidore saithe ) liueth aboue fiue hundred yeres , and when shee perceiuethe her selfe so aged , gatheringe the twigges , and drie braunches of sundrie sweete smellinge trees , she maketh thereof , as it were a Beakon : and turninge her selfe therupon towardes the whote beames of the Sunne , shee clappeth her winges in suche wise , that shee kindeleth fire aboute her , burning her selfe , and so shee rysethe againe of her owne asshes .

Alanus speaketh of this byrde , Alanus . and saithe , that when the higheste Prieste Onyas had builded a Temple in the greate Cittie of Heliopolis in Egypte , to the fourme and likenesse of the Temple in Ierusalem , and the firste daye of Easter , Vnicae semper auis . when he had gathered muche sweete smellinge woode , and set it on fire vpon the Aultare to offer Sacrifice : euen then to all mennes sighte , came sodainely suche a byrde , and fell into the middle of the fire , and was there burnte anone to asshes , and the asshes remained still , and were diligently kepte , and preserued by the commaundemente of the Prieste . And within three dayes , of theise asshes was bredde a little worme , whiche tooke the shape of a byrde at laste , and did flie into the wildernesse .

This byrde is white of colour , and hath no part of blacknesse . His kinde is marueylous . For if a man which hath bene longe holden with greate sickenesse , be like to die , thys byrde then turneth awaye his countenaunce from him . But if the sicke man shal escape the deathe , this byrde then fixeth his sighte earnestly on hym , & beholdeth him cheerefully .

Aristotle saithe , that the Crane is a ciuill byrde , Quia sub Duce degit .

Crues vbi pugnent cum Pigmeis .

Arist. de animal . li. 8. ca. 12

Cranes flee into verye farre Countryes , Quae ex Scithicis campis ad paludes Aegypto superiores , vnde Nilus profluit , veniunt , quo in loco pugnare cum Pygmeis dicuntur : Non enim id fabula est , sed certè genus tum hominum , tum etiam equorum pusillum ( vt dicitur ) est , deguntque in cauernis , vnde nomen Trogloditae à subeundis cauernis accepere . Cranes doo many thinges wisely , as Aristotle saithe , Libro de Animalib . 9. Cap 10.

Gallus à castratione vocatus . Inter caeteras enim aues huic soli testiculi adimuntur . Veteres enim abscisos gallos vocabant . The Cocke breedethe a Pretious stone called Allectricium , like to that stone that highte Calcedonius . And because of the same stone , the Lyon dreadeth , and abhorreth him , & especially if the Cocke be white . For the Lyon dreadeth a white Cocke , as Plinie saith . The Cocke aboue other birdes , is ensigned with a peculiare Creste : Sic enim institutam , vt nec caro sit , Galli post victoriam canunt . nec à natura carnis omnino aliena . The Cock greately reioiceth , when he getteth the victorie ouer an other , and after the clappinge of his winges , he singeth for ioye thereof . Gloriam sentit , noscit sydera , it cubitum cum Sole , imperitat suo generi , & Regnum , in quacunque domo fuerit , exercet . The Cocke is consecrate to the Sunne .

This byrde in Latin is called Bubo , and hathe that name of the sounde of her voice : and is a wylde byrde charged with feathers , and seethe more cleerely by night , then by day , and then shee is moste stronge , and able to resiste her enimyes , who can not abide her for her shape , songe , and countenaunce . When shee is assayled of other byrdes , shee lyinge vprighte , defendeth her selfe with byting , and scratchinge .

Shee is friende to the husbandeman in killinge mise , whiche otherwise woulde consume his corne in the barne . Apud Augures malum portendere fertur . Nam cum in vrbe visa fuerit , solitudinem significare dicunt . De qua Ouidius : Faedaque sic volucris venturi nuntia luctus Ignauus Bubo dirum mortalibus omen .

This kinde of Swallowes is al blacke , & is greatly dread of other fowles . Yea , the Eagle , and Gossehauke flie from this Swalowe , as it were theire enimye : and dare not fall on theire praye while shee is fleeinge abroade , dreading the bytinge of her . For it is thought to be venemous , as Plini saith . And this I take to be the Swalowe , Quae carne vescitur .

There ben other two kindes of Swalowes , the one called the house Swalowe , which loueth mannes companie : and the other whiche is lesse , louethe the sea , and maketh her neaste in the holes , and chynnes of Rockes . But bothe of them make their neaste in like , and haue their tayles forked as a payre of sheeres , and differ nothinge in coloure , but that the house Swalowe is seene to haue , Sanguinis maculum in pectore .

And in that I haue descriued three Fountaines on the Fesse in the said Cote armour , Fountaine . I thinke it therefore mete to declare what a Fountaine is . A Fountaine is the head and springe of liuinge water , whiche springeth , and runneth continually oute of the priuie vaynes of the earthe , to the greate nourishinge thereof , and of all mankinde . And therefore it is called Fons , as it were Fouens , nourishinge : or Fundens , pouringe , or shedinge out .

The Fountaine multipliethe all Riuers , Brookes , and streames with waters , and communicateth hym selfe to many , hidinge it from nothinge : but parteth , and distributeth of his abundance , as wel to Pylgrimes and strangers , as to all other liuinge creatures .

The Swalowe taketh not his meate sitting , but fleing in the ayre , & in making of neastꝭ is most expert & cunning : educādisque faetibus solertissima . She is full of feathers , & therefore is the moste lightest , and swift in flight of all fowles . Other birdes disturbe her not , neither is shee praye to any of them . Maria transuolat , ibique hyeme commoratur . Ouid calleth this byrde , Veris praenuntia . For shee is the firste messenger , that shewethe vs the springe of the yeare . It is readde , that in the yonge Swalowes wombe bene founde twoo stones very pretious . The one white , whiche is the Female , and the other redde , which is the Male , and is more vertuous . Pretious stones called Celidonij . These two pretious stones , are called Celedonij : and they must be taken out of the Swalowes wombe , ere they touche the grounde .

This is a tree of victorye : Proceroque ac decoro virgultu : diuturnisque vestita frondibus : & folia sine vlla successione conseruans . It is a tree noble and famous , alwaies faire and greene : and longe tyme beautified with braunches and leaues , both in winter & sommer . The Prophete saithe , Iustus vt Palma florebit . This noble tree aboundeth , and is moste fruitefull in India . And therefore Uespasiane the Emperour , caused to be imprinted on the one parte of hys coygne the figure of the Palme tree , to declare thereby hys tryumphant victorie , in subduing and conquering the whole region of Iewrie .

H. Beareth golde , Laurell . a Laurell tree verte . Thys is also a tree of victorie , and is of singuler excellencie , grace , and vertue . In the olde tyme , all victorious emperours , kynges , princes and capteines , were crowned with garlandes of Laurell tree , whan they had gotten the victorie ouer their enemies . And to the knyghtes , souldiours , and standerde bearers , whiche had behaued and borne themselues valiantly and stoutely in the warres , were geuen garlandes also made of Laurell to adorne theire heades , whiche were called Coronae militares , Coronae militares . and were testimonies of their prowes , noble actes , and haute courages , for euer to bee remembred . The Grekes call thys tree Daphnis● , Daphnis . because it neuer leaueth hys grenesse . It was consecrate to the great Iupiter , & to Apollo Delphicus . It is thoughte that thys tree is neuer touched with lyghtenynge . And therefore the Emperoure Tiberius Caesar , in thondryng and lyghtenyng , vsed to weare a garlande of Laurell tree agaynste the smytyng of the lyghtenyng . Also Plinye reporteth that as the same Emperoure dyd sitt by Drusilla the Empresse in a certein garden , an Eagle threwe from a ryght hyghe place , a fayre whyte henne , whole and sounde into the Empresse lappe : and the henne dyd holde in her beake a bowe of Laurell tree , full of bays . And diuinors toke hede to the henne , and did sowe the bays , kepyng them wisely , and of them came a wood , that was called Sylua triumphans , Sylua triumphans . as it were the wodd of worshippe for victorye and mastrie● , for afterwarde the Emperour dyd beare of the Laurel tree in hys hande , and did weare a garlande thereof on hys heade . And after him many others emperours in the same wise should be crowned with Laurel tree of the same wodd , whan they had the victorye , and these theire garlandes were called . Coronae triumphales . 〈◊〉 triumphales . Hae antiquitus è lauro erant , post fieri ex auro ceptae . Collisa in se durius duo Laurea , ignem concussu reddunt , si Plinio creditur . Idem facere Leonis ossa , plerique autumant . Sic & concursu potentiorum certum est oriri grauius periculum .

Olyue . The fielde is of the Sunne , an Olyue tree , Veneris .

Thys is a Royall tree , and in the Latyne tongue is called Olea , the fruite Oliua , succus oleum . It is a tree of peace : for no messengers were sent to Rome , to gete or obteyne peace , without bearing in theire handes the braunches of Olyue tree : neyther yet to profre peace to other men . Remigius sayeth , that the dignitie of thys tree is knowne : for that in token of reconciliation betwene god and man , and of the peace made betwene them , the Doue whiche was sent forth by Noe out of the arke , returned agayne to hym with a token in her mouth , Genes. 8. which was an Oliue leafe that she had plucked , and of none other tree . Plynie sayethe that among the Athenians , victors were crowned with Oliue .

I. Beareth Argente , an hande Gules , holdyng a branche of Oliue propre . Diodore sayeth , that the tree which beareth the Olyue , is a signe of peace and tranquilitie : gestantibus iudicium erat pacis . The prayse of peace is eloquentely set forth by Ihon Gower , in a treatise which he writte vnto the noble kyng Henry the fowerth : in these woordes .

Peace is the chefe of all the worldes wealth . And to the heauen it leadeth eke the waye . Peace is of soule & lyfe the mans healthe . Of pestilence it doth the warre awaye . My liege Lorde take hede of that I saye , Yf warre maye be left , take peace on hande . Whiche may not bee without goddes sande . With peace standeth euery creature in rest . Without peace , there may no lyfe bee gladde Aboue all other good peace is the best , Peace hath himselfe , whan warre is all bestadde , The peace is safe , the warre is euer dreade . Peace is of all charitie the kaye , Whiche hath the life & soule for to waye . My liege Lorde yf that the liste to seche The soth ensamples , what the warre hath wrought Thou shalt well heare of wise mens speche , That deadely warre turneth into noughte . For yf these olde bookes be well I soughte , There might thouse se what thing the warre hath do Both of conqueste , and conquerour also . For vayne honor , or for the worldes good They that whylom the stronge warres made Wher be they now , bethincke wel in thy moode The daye is gone , the nyghte is darke & fade Theire crueltye which made them then glade They sorowen nowe , & yet haue naught the more The blodde is shed , which no man may restore .

K. Bearethe O● , an Oke tree , verte .

Th' Oke tree was hallowed to Iupiter . Sacra Ioui quercus . And it is called Quercus siue quernei ꝙ ea soliti erant dij gentium querentibus responsa dare : Thys tree endurethe manye yeares : sicut legitur de quercu Mambre sub qua habitauit Abraham : quae fertur vsque ad Constantini Regis imperium per multae secula perdurasse . The Oke in the olde tyme was accompted chefest inter faelices arbores . It is a tree verye hyghe , full of boughes and braunches , hauing a roote moste perfecte and sure , and therefore it best abideth the blastes and shakynges of all tempesteous windes : and for hys myghtynes and strength , is most meete for great and large buyldinges . The leafe of thys tree in some countreyes neuer falleth awaye . Theophraste sayeth , that there is a kynde of Oke , in agro Thurio , vbi Sybaris perspicua , quae nunquam folia dimittit . The frute of thys tree is called . Akecorne . Glandula , or glans quernea , an Akre , or maste of the Oke tree : wherewith men in the olde tyme were norished and fedde , wherfore the Poete sayeth .

Mortales primi ructabant gutture glandem . Oure fathers of olde thoughte it good , To vse Akecornes for theire foode .

Prius enim quam frumenti vsus esset , antiqui homines glande vixerunt . Boetius remembreth the same , sayinge , faelix nimium prior aetas . &c.

Wondrefull happy was the firste age of men , whych did holde them contented with the fruites which the verie fieldes brought foorthe , and therefor were not distroyde with filthye glotonye : but were wonte easely to'assuage theire hongre at euen with the n2 of Okes , not knowing what wine mente , yet vsing the moiste hony , and the clere running waters of the streame , whiche caused them to slepe holesome slepes vpon the grasse liyng vnder the shadowes of the hye pyne trees .

The Peare hath hys name , because it is shaped as the flambe of the fire , for a Peare is greate , harde , and brode at th' one ende , and narowe and strayghte at th' other , as the flame of fyre . Pyrus autem arbor : fructus eius pyra est . Poma pyri iumentis imposita vel si pauca , vehementer onerosa esse dicuntur . I thincke no more to speake of the Peare at thys tyme , nor of the tree , but of the cheuron descriued in the sayde fielde , whiche is a worthye particion , & holdeth in it selfe a great soueraignetie .

M. Beareth Argente , twoo Cheurons Sable , betwene thre figge slippes propre . Figge .

The figge tree is so called , a faecunditate , because it excelleth others in fruitefulnes . Nam terque quaterque per singulos annos generat fructum : atque altero maturascente : alter oboritur .

Thus it is manifeste that thys tree beareth frute three or fower tymes in one yere , and whyle one rypeth , an other spryngeth anone . Let the bearer herof in cote armoure , consider what he beareth . The learned can iudge what his condicions shoulde bee .

And touching the two Cheurons blazed , there can be no mo so termed in one coate armoure : for they conteyne the iuste quantitie of theire ordre in the fielde , for with them the fielde is fiue in all hys contente .

Among all flours of the world , the Rose is the cheife , and beareth the price . And therefore the chefe parte of man , whiche is the heade is ofte crowned therwith , because of hys vertues , swete smell and sauoure , for by fayrenes they fede the sight , and please the smell by odour : and accorde to medecine , both grene and drye . Rosa a specie floris nuncupata : qd rutilanti colore rubeat . Therefore our noble and moste gracious Quene doth , and for euer shall vse thys delectable Poesie or worde . Rutilans Rosa sine spina . Yf I were learned thereunto , I woulde speake more of thys floure . But beyng bolde of Plinye , the Rose shall haue preheminence aboue all floures , and nexte to it , the floure de luce , and the thirde shal be the violet . These are the floures wherewith the crownes of noble men oughte to bee adorned .

Partie per Cheuron . And wheras the fielde of the sayde cote armoure is parted per Cheuron , you must take the same , as one of the particions messes , because one coloure , after the maner of a Cheurō , entremedleth with an other , otherwise than is vsed in simple particions . And my aucthor sayeth , that many haue doubted aboute the Blazon of Cotes Armoures , whan they bee thus parted per Cheuron of two coloures : and such as haue made themselfes verye connyng , in descriuing of armes , haue fayled thereof : some holdinge one opinion , and same an other . And therefore to dissolue the doubte herein , take these nexte ensuyng for example .

Thys is as fayre a cote , as maye bee deuised of that particion : and the token borne in the fielde , is of hys propre coloure . For the Lyllye is of treble coloure , whit , redde , and purple , or yealowe . I thought it good to adde these woordes deux vne in the blazon of thys cote Armoure , for that the Lillyes are transmuted of the same coloures that the fielde is of , for yf the fielde were not so parted , it neded not to haue sayde deux vne . And touching the floure , Plinye sayeth , that the Lillye is next to the Rose in worthynes and noblenes . Nothing is more gracious than the Lillye in fayrenes of colour , in swetenes of smell , and in effecte of workynge and vertue . Lilya . Lillya lactei floris herba : vnde & nuncupata quasi Liolya cuius dum candor sit in folijs : auri tamen species intus effulget .

Thys floure hath hys name of the strongest smell that hee hath , as Isidore sayeth , and the smell thereof abateth the heate of the brayne , and refressheth and comforteth the spirittes . The littlenes thereof is nobly rewarded in greatenes of sauoure and of vertue . Amongst floures , Plinye setteth the violet , next the Rose , and the Lyllye : for that they be the chefe floures ( hee sayeth ) to beutefie the crownes of noble men . Huius genera sunt tria : purpureum , album , melliuum . The thre piles descried in thys cote armoure , whiche mete together in one coone of the shielde , as in the poyncte thereof , are called in Latine Pilae , which is asmuche to saye as Pillers , that susteyne and vpholde the worke whiche is layde vpon them . Pyles . And of the sondrye bearing of suche in cote armour , hereafter shall ensue diuerse examples .

Q. Beareth Argent and verte , parted per pile enuecked , 6. Senuye . leafes de Senuye d'Or ▪ 3.2.1 . The floure of thys herbe is full yealowe , and hath a good smell . And though all the herbe in substaunce be kene and feruente , yet Bees loue beste the floures of it , and haunte them .

The fielde is golde , a Pyle in poyncte betwene two slippes of Merche , Merche . verte . This herbe in latine is called Apium , and it is so called , qd ex eo apes .i. caput antiquorum triumphantium coronabatur . Hercules made hym firste garlandes of thys herbe . Cuius radices efficaciter pugnant contra insidias ve nenorum . Thys herbe is alwayes grene , as Theophraste sayethe .

R. Beareth Sable , a Pile engraled , in bende betwene fower flours of Agnus castus , Agnus caest ' . d'Or . This herbe is alwayes grene : and the floure therof is namely called Agnus castus , for whoso vseth muche to smell thereunto , eyther man or woman , it hathe vertue to kepe them chaste as a Lambe . Therefore the women of Rome , vsed to beare with them the floure of thys herbe , at funeralles , & in seruice of deade men , whan they must nedes lyue chaste , for common honestie .

This herbe Celidon hath a yealowe floure , and the stalke therof broken , smorcheth them that touche it all with yealow . And it highte Celidonia , for it springeth and bloometh in the comminge of Swalowes . For a Swalowe in the Greeke tongue is called Celidon . Or els , as Isidore saithe , it is so called , because it helpeth Swalowes byrdes , if their eyne be hurte , or blinde . And likewise Plinie saithe , that by the iuyce of Celidon , Swalowes eyes turne againe to theire firste state , if they bene hurte , or put out .

This hearbe hathe vertues that bene noble and good , whereof ye maye reade in Plinie , Dioscor . and Platearius also .

Of the sondrie fashions of Crownes , geeuen by Emperours , kynges , and Prynces , to theire souldiours , for theire good seruice & valiaunte feates donne in the warres , one is named a Crowne murall , whiche was geuen to hym , whiche in the siege of a Citie firste scaled the walles , & entered maugre the enemies , and therfore it was made like ●nbatlementes of a wall . Muralis corona ex auro conflata in sormam muralium pinnarum illi dabatur ab Imperatore exerci●us , qui prius vi & armis hostium mania transcendisset in vrbem .

Thys coate armour is to be nombred , among the worthie particions , for the soueraygnetie of the same .

Thys Crowne was first put on hys heade , whiche in battayle on the Sea , firste borded the shippe that was assayled , Crowne nauall . and therefore it was made like to the foreparte of a shippe . Nauali praelio qui in classem hostium armatus , primusque irruens ingressus esset , Corona aurea Nauali cohonest abatur , rostro rum , aut naualium prorarum adinstar confecta . And an other Crowne called in Latyne Corona Castrensis , was geuen to hym , whiche firste entered by force into the trenche of the enemies campe , and therefore it was made , as it were sett about with payles . Corona Castrensis . And Paradyne sayeth , that Corona Castrensis vallaris , seu palata , ex auro confecta , donabatur ab Imperatore , seu exercitus praefecto illi , qui primus oppugnando vallum hostile occupasset . These Crownes alwayes were of Golde . Yet note , that these and many other suche like , oughte not directely to bee called Crownes : for althoughe Corona in Latyne , is called a Crowne , so is it a Garlande , a Chaplet , a companye of people standing rounde aboute like a Circle , also the circle about the moone :

Haec littera Pythagorica vocatur . Se in the firste boke , entituled the Concordes of Armorye almost in the ende .

The bearer of thys signe or token in armes , I meane of the crowne Imperiall , oughte alwayes to bee doynge good , and to se that no harme be donne to none , to be mercifull , and continually exercised in the seruice of almyghtie God . For those , in whose power it is to do good , and doth it not , the Crowne of honor and worshippe shal be taken from them , and ( as Chaucer sayethe ) with shame they shal be anulled , & from all dignitie deposed . 2. Reg. 12. cap. When kyng Dauid had gotten the citie of Raba , & had put oute the people that was therin , tormentyng them vpon sawes , yron harrowes , and vpon ares of yron , & thrust them into the tyle kyll , he toke their kinges crowne from of hys heade , whiche wayde an hundred waighte of golde , and in it were precious stones : and it was sett on Dauids heade . Hereby is the power of God declared , how hee dealeth euen with kynges , takynge the crowne and dignitie from one , and geuing the same to an other . He exalteth , and it is he , that deiecteth , he is the auenger , he is also the sparer , he can wounde , and he can make whole : neyther is there anye that can delyuer hym oute of hys hande .

The fielde of thys cote Armoure is Claurie , because it is of one propre coloure , without anye particion or change , & it is also the seconde quadrate Royall , for that the fielde is charged , but with no mo tokens .

The fielde is parted per Fesse Dented , Venus , & Saturne , fiue beasauntes . Beasante . 3.2 . A beasaunte is also called a Talente : The sondrie contentes wherof , the Reader maye best vnderstande in Sir Thomas Elyote hys dictionarie , to the whiche I referre hym , and to master Gerard Leyghe , in hys accedence of Armorie .

The fielde is sable a fesse Cantone d'Ermyne , betwene two plates .

Plates are of dignitie nexte vnto the beasauntes , Plates . and are rounde in shape as beasauntes are , whiche are alwayes of golden coloure , as ye may rede before . And plates are of siluer , and haue no similitude on them , but are formed readie to coigne . These of them that knowe not the ryght termes of them are called Balles : and they offende not muche some tyme so to name them , for Pila in Latyne , is not onely a Piller , or frame to bee put vnder any worke to beare the same , but it is also a Ball , or any thinge rounde as a Ball : the whiche is an instrumente seruinge otherwhyle to the hande , and then it is called in Latyn Pila palmaria , or Pila manualis , otherwise it serueth for the foote , and then it is called Pila pedalis , a foote ball , yet are there other thinges rounde , whyche are neyther beasauntes , plates , or balles . A boule is a very rounde thinge , Boule . and in Latyne is called Globus , and Globum , and is also a token in armes , but not of suche estimacion . There is also an other figure , in all partes equally rounde , Sphere or Globe . and in Latyne is called Sphaera , and is also an honorable deuise in armes . And nowe shall ensue sundrye examples to displaye suche signes or tokens , as are rounde in shape and forme .

The fielde is Gules . Ermyne . 10. beasauntes a canton d'Ermyne . Of the Beasaunte I haue spoken sufficiently before . But the canton beyng d'Ermyne , vnderstande what the same is . It is one of the noble and honorable furres , vsed to be worne of Kynges and Princes in theire robes and mantles , & is the chefest furre . In armes it is called Ermine , proprely , and not siluer or white , poudered with Sable , to the whiche terme there must bee had great respecte , it is so frequente in armorye . In mantles , ( as M. G. Leyghe sayeth ) they are called doblinges . It is the skynne of a lyttle beaste of the lande of Armenye , whereof he taketh hys name . The tricke of thys cote armoure , I did take ( as I founde it ) in the parish Churche of Lutterworth .

Suche lyke controuersie dyd chaunce , betwene two valiaunt , knyghtes , Sir Iohn of Sitsilt , and Sir Willyam of Facknaham , for raysinge in fielde the cote Armoure , here , after the antique maner displayed . But the ryghte of the bearing thereof ( which they were readie to trie by force of Armes ) was adiudged , to Sir Iohn Sitsilt , as to him moste ryghtefully and lyneally descended , by good & lawfull byrthe : as heyre of bloode and of bodie , of Iames Sitsilt , Lorde of Beauporte . For the truthe whereof ( gentle reader ) here ensueth Verbatim , the copye of the very originall wrytinges , in haec verba .

Iames Sitsilt Lord

of Beauporte , had to hys ensigne in the fielde of ten Barres siluer & Azure , six excocheons sable , with as many Lyons ramping , of the firste incensed Gules .

Gentle Reader , note well thys Blazon , and you shall playnely perceaue the great knowledge of th' officers at armes in the olde tyme .

C'est a tesmoigner a vous mes Seigniours , pur le determination final , del discention pur vng Ensigne d'Armes perenter Monsieur Iean de Sitsilt , & Willyam de Faknaham Cheualiers , que l'an depuis le nestre de Dieu , mil cent quarante deux , Iaques Sitsilt & ses ancesters seigneurs de Beauport , a le siege de le Chasteau de Wallingford & viues & mortzillonques , & la leueront vng Ensigne , tiel comme l'ensigne de lour sang genereux . C'est a dire , en la champe de dize barretz d'Argent & azure , Pedegre ascendinge . six escochcons Sabels , auec tantes de Lyons rampand , primer incensed Gule , Pere de Iehan Sitsilt , pere de Eustace , pere de Baldwine , pere de Gerarde , pere de Robert , pere de Iaques , Pere de George de Euerwike , pere de Iehan , pere de cestuy Iean Sitsilt Cheualer , heyer de sang & de corps de dit Iaques Seigneur de Beauport , linealment descendu par bon & loyal nestre , de que lygne le dit Willyam n'est my . Et cest pur voier & bon droit tousiours ie seray prest de maintener , a que fayer ie moy oblige par mon seau ci affigé . Donné le quarte iour d'Auril , l'an del reigne du Roy Edwarde le tiers depuis le conqueste . Le Siz .

The final determinacion of the controuersie aforesayde .

A touts Angloys & Francoys , Nous Edwarde de Beaulile , & Iean de Mowbray gret . L'ou grande debate & controuersie ad esté parentre Iean de Sitsilt Cheualier , & Willyam Faknaham , in le champe de Monte holitone , pur vn ensigne d'armes : c'est assauoir tiel , le champe de dize Barretz Argent , & azure , supportez de cinq escocheons Sables , charges ouesque tant de Lyons primers rampantz incensed Gules , que ambideux clamont come lour droict par longe & auncient descent a eux descendu . Et a mayntener lour quarell pur droitriel , ambideux les partyes ont eux mettre sur lour force , & vantont de cest maintener per lour corps . Ci est que il au please a nostre liege seigneur le Roy que Iustice sera fait a ces homes sans sang espandu , per voyer tesmoignes & bons semblances . Accordant a que auoins oyé & voy moltes ditez & lour escriptes , & les tesmoygnes du Roy d'Armes & dauter lieges le Roy , que le droit le dit Iehan Sitsilt et bien forte maintenent le dit ensigne estre son droict , come le droict de son sang genereulx . Pur que fait cest nostre final dome , q Dieu , le Roy nostre liege & nous , & le dit Iehan Sitsilt defend que iames doresenauant le dit William ne soit cy hardy , chalenger , claymer , ou leuer in ascun champ le Roye , ou sur ascun corse viue ou morte , in ascun leu deins les quatre mers le Roye , ou aillours par my tout Christiantye , les dites armes in ensigne , pyghenoute , guydon , banyer , escocheon , targe , escu , manche , ou elme , sur payne de forfayture , & perder son espeé trenchaut , & ses piques d'Or a toutes iours . Donné le quart iour de Iune , l'an del Roy Edwarde le tierce , depuis le conquest , le Sept.

The whych sayde originall writinges , beyng written in parchement , accordyng to the antiquitie of the tyme , I my selfe haue seene being in the possession of the ryghte honorable the Lorde of Burghley , to whome in blood the same belongeth , whose name beinge written at thys daye Cecill is neuertheles in Wales , both in speche and common writing vsed to be vttered Sitsilt or Sitsild : where the originall house at thys daye remayneth nere Aburgenny .

Q. Curt. li. 4. At suche tyme as Alexander the greate layde hys siege to the citye of Tyre , a certayne souldiour of the Macedons , as he was breakyng of hys breade , there appearrd therein droppes of bloude , whiche by Arystander the deuiner was thus interpreted . Yf the bloude had appeared outwardely , then it had signified yll fortune to the Macedons , but in asmoche as it was founde within , it betokened destruction to the citye , they wente about to wynne .

T. Beareth Ermynes , on a chefe Argente indented , 3. Ogresses .

Ogresse , or Pellet . Th' ogresse is the same , that we call a Pellet of a gonne , and in armorye is no other coloure then Sable . Wherfore I do omit the worde Sable , because it is the righte and propre coloure incident to a Pellet . But of the fielde of thys cote armour ( whiche in my iudgemente shall haue the seconde dignitie of the furres ) thys vnderstande , that it is onely to bee called Ermines , and not Sable poudered with siluer .

U. Beareth gules , one pyle in poyncte , Ermyne . Ermyne & a chefe d'Ermynes . Ermynes . Thus of the difference of these two furres , this , and the last pagen maye perfectely instructe the , gentle reader .

W. Bearethe Gules , Hurtes . on a Fesse Argente 3. hurtes .

Thys shoulde alwayes bee of Azure coloure , and are called hurtes , for that where they appeare , violence hath bene shewed to the bearer , and further I cannot construe of this matter . The Cote armoure is Mars , and the thing conteyned in the fielde is of his power , and charged proprely in a sure Fesse of the Moone . These tokens ( beyng rounde in figure ) as are next before recited , ought well to be marked and considered , for as they differ in mettall and coloure , so are they changed in theire names and callyng . Neyther are they founde at any time perforate , that is to saye , persed in the myddest : but they are seene to bee charged sondrye wayes , as with Rowelles , Mollettes , Starres . &c.

Y. Beareth Ermynes , a twynne araide , Siluer , crowned with a garlande of violettes , Twynne . propre , hauyng hys handes displayde Geminus is a twynne , where many children are borne at one burdeyne , Geminus . although they be three or mo . And how they may be borne in cote armoure , take here an other example .

F. Beareth Mars . 3. twynnes with armes displayed , of the moone . Studie not ( gentle reader ) wherefore I haue blazed the twinne and twinnes with theire armes extended . Of truthe it is theire proprety euen from the wombe so to do , desiringe the libertie of theire braunches . I coulde speake here of swadelynge of chyldren , but it belongethe not to my purpose . Wherefore I referre it to weomen and Phisicions .

A. Beareth Azure , a maste of a shippe d'Argent , and on the chefe thereof , Gemini . the Sterres Gemini . These the gentyles called Castor , Castor & Pollux . and Pollux : whome the Grecians doe call Dioscuros , and suppose that they prosper those that sayle on the Sea , when they appeare sittyng ioyntely together , th one by th' other on the crosse peice , whereunto the sayle is fastened . Paradinus . Simbol . Her● . Si vero corum alter duntaxat eminet , malum praesagire creditur , Preterea potest sub alterius Geminorum solitudi ne intelligi , periculosam esse potentiam absque prudentia . Saynct Paule departed from Melite in a shippe , whose badge was Castor and Pollux . Act. cap. 28.

Thus is asmoche to saye , in thys fielde , as a sheafe of wheate . Ceres wyfe of Osiris kynge of Egipte , dyd first inuente sowynge of wheate , and Barlye , whiche before dyd growe wilde among other herbes . Prima Ceres cepit vti frugibus in Grecia , Ceres . & habere segetes translatis aliunde seminibus .

Of her , Ouide maketh mencion , saynge .

Prima Ceres vnco glebam dimouit aratro . Prima dedit fruges : alimentaque initia terris . Whiche verses is thus metrized . First Ceres with ploughe did inuente , th' earthe in clottes all to rente : And firste of grayne the trade she founde , how to sowe it in the grounde .

The Fusill in Latyne is called fusum , L. Monteacute . qd per cum fundatur quod netuni est . What yf the first bearer of suche ensignes , dyd cause hys wolle to bee sponne by the folkes of hys household whether they were his children or seruauntes , is this therfore any reproche to the master , since hys children & householde seruantes , yea , and he hymselfe , is therby cladde and appareled muche the better ? No certaynely , reproche therein can be none , but rather an hyghe commendacion of vertuous exercise , and godly labour .

It appeareth in the hystorie of the actes of great Alexandre , that while he was abroade in the warres , his sisters didde spinne , and make for him garmentes of wollen clothe , whiche they sente him as a greate gifte : and was worne of him at that time , and more esteemed , then all the silkes , and pretious vestures of the Persians . Persian weomen handle no wolle . And although the noble wemen in that countrie take nothinge in more despite , then to put their handes to woll , yet the sisters of the same Alexander the Greate , and the noble wemen of Macedonia , disdeigned not to spinne , and make garmentes thereof , not thinkinge the same to be any blemishe at all to theire Nobilite , or bloude .

Of the bearinge also of suche a token in Armes , take these further for examples .

The fielde is Gules , Mollette . on a Saltier Argente , fiue Mollettes Sable .

This is to be taken as a spotte descended from on high , and disperpled into fiue pointes , out of one Still . This cote Armoure is one of the honourable Ordinaries charged .

D. beareth Argente , a Saltier Azure , betweene foure Rauens winges proper . Rauen. the Rauen in Latine is called Coruus , siue Corax , and shee hathe that name , à sono gutturis , quòd voce coracinet . Fertur haec auis , quòd editis pullis , escam plenè non praebeat , priusquam in eis per pennarum nigredinem similitudinem proprij coloris agnoscat . Postquam verò eos tetros plumis aspexerit in toto agnitos abundantius pascit . The Rauen is enimie to the Bull , and assaileth him on all partes , but his eies especially .

Frette . E. beareth Uerte , a Frette d'Argente . And to hys Creaste vpon the Helme , on a wreathe Or , and Sable , a Popyniaye Purpre , bearinge a twigge of the Almonde tree proper , manteled Azure , dobled Or. The Fret borne in this Cote armour , is found borne also of diuerse noble Gentlemen , of seueral mettal and colours . And the same is sometime seene in Cote armour simple , otherwhile doble , also triple , and of eighte pieces : and oftentimes they are multiplied ouer all the Shielde .

And ye muste vnderstande one greate difference betwene Armes Bended , and these Armes , the whiche be made with the foresaide Frettes . For in Armes Bendee , the colours contained in the shielde , are equally diuided : and where these Frettes be , the fielde alwayes abide the whole .

Popiniaye . And touchinge the Popyniaye , whiche is before descriued for the Creast of the said Cote armour , he is in one of his proper colours , and bearethe a spraye of his delighte . He is called in Latin Psitacus . Munsterus in his booke of Cosmographie saithe , Psitacorum Regio . that in Psitacorum regione , there be founde Popiniayes of incredible bignesse , as exceedinge in lengthe , an arme and an halfe , and are of manifolde colours .

He saithe also , that in the Lande of Chalechute , there be Popiniayes of greene colour , Calechute . euen as greene as Leekes , Alij scutulati , alij coloris purpurij . There is also suche plentie of them in that countrye , that they appointe keepers to keepe theire Rice whiche they sowe in theire fieldes , leaste they doo eate it vp . Munsterus reporteth also , that the Popiniayes of Indie , Indiani Psitaci . are for the moste parte of grene but that theire heade is redde , or as the coloure of woade , and shinethe like golde . Theire tongue is greate and broade , Atque ideò vocaliores sunt , and vtter wordes which maie be vnderstande .

They learne in the firste and seconde yeare , suche wordes as are taughte them , and retaine them longe . They drinke Wyne , and vse theire feete in steade of handes , when they take meate .

This byrde , saithe Isidore , of nature vseth as it were a certaine salutation , Dicens : Aue , vel chere . Caetera nomina institutione discit . Hinc est illud : Psitacus à vobis aliorum nomina discam . Hoc didici per me , dicere , Caesar aue .

The Popiniaye is in no countrie so greate or bigge , as he is In Psitacorum regione . But those in the Lande of Chalechute , are of greater praise , & estimation , althoughe they moste abounde there .

F. beareth Argent , a Bende Azure , cotized with twoo cotizes Sable , Allaundes . on the Bende , three Allaundes heades rassed Golde , Mosseled Gules .

And to his Creaste vpon the Helme , on a wreathe Argent , and Sable , a Beares heade rassed Golde , betweene twoo winges Gules , manteled Azure , doubled Argente . The signes borne in the said Cote armour , are the heades of three Allaundes , whiche be a certaine kinde of dogges of greate stature passinge all others , whiche are vsed to hunte the Lyon , Tyger , Panther , wilde Beare , & other suche beastes of rauening kinde . And of the same tokens borne in this Cote armoure , and Creaste , I haue sufficiently spoken , where I entreated of Beastes : and where I haue here descriued the heades of two sundrie kindes of beastes , note alwaies , that nexte the bearing of the whole beaste , the bearinge of the heade in Armes , is taken to be the moste worthiest parte , and moste esteemed in Cote armour , as honourable .

The field is Martis , a Pegasus Lunae , wynged Solis . The Creaste a dimie Chymer , Rampante Saturne , sette on a Torce , Luna and Ioue , manteled of the Rubie , doubled Pearle . There maie be readde of diuerse Horses in Poetrie , Pegasus . as of this Horse Pegasus before blazed , that had winges for to flie , and of Sinon the Greeke his Horse , that broughte Troye to destruction . But this Pegasus exceeded Bucephale , and all other horses in swiftnesse , and celeritie , because he had winges : Quem ex interfectae Medusae sanguine natum fingunt . De quo Ouidius . 4. Metam . Upon this horse did Bellerophon ascende , Bellerophon . when he slewe Chimeram that horrible monster in Lycia , whiche hauinge the head , and face of a Lyon , the middle parte of a Goate , and the hinder parte of a Dragon , breathed , and caste forth great sparkles of fire . And therefore I haue sette this monster , as a Creaste to the saide Cote armoure : and as I thinke , not incongruently , if the circumstances of the Historie , of whome the same dependeth , be rightly considered .

Also Munsterus the Cosmographer reporteth , ( but supposinge the same not to be true ) that Pegasus is a byrde in Africa , whiche is saide to haue the bodye , and eares of an Horse , and the winges like a Byrde . Haec ille Lib. 6. Pag. 1151.

The especiall token borne in this Cote armoure , is the Harte of a man , whiche in Latin is called Cor , deriued à Graeca appellatione , whiche they name Cardian . Or els it hathe that name of Cura , because that in it abideth all carefulnesse , all regarde of God , and godlynesse , and also the cause of all knowledge and wisedome .

The harte of man declinethe more towarde the lefte side , then of any other liuinge creature , for to them it is sette in the middle of the bodye . The causes of the one , or of the other , it appertaineth not here to recite . And as the same is of no very great quantitie , so is it in fourme more rounde , then longe . Yet in the lower parte thereof it gathereth sharpe , Exitque pene in mucronem .

It is the well of life , and all fealinge , and mouinge is therein . Amongest al members , the harte of man is most noble , and therefore it is sette in the moste excellente place of the body , as it is moste needefull . For no member is so needefull to the life of man , as is the harte .

I haue displayed the saide Harte peirced with Dartes , to declare thereby oure mortalitie , in that we see , if the same be striken , wounded , or grieued with sorrowe , wee then can haue no longer pleasure , or delighte to liue .

I reade also , Aristomenes that Aristomenes , a man of Messene , whiche was called Iustissimus , Moste iuste , when he was deade , was founde to haue his Harte all hearye . Harpe . The Harpe is a token not vnmeete to be borne in chiefe of the saide Cote armoure , beinge an instrumente like to a mannes breaste . For likewise as the voice commeth of the breast , so the notes comme of the Harpe , and hathe therefore in Latin that name Cythara , for the breaste is called Cythara in Dorica lingua . This instrumente is seene sometime to haue foure corners , but moste commonly three .

In olde times Harpes hadde but seuen stringes , and so Virgili saithe : Stringes . Septem sunt soni , septem discrimina vocum .

A Stringe in Latin is called Corda , of Corde , the harte . For as the pulse of the Harte is in the breaste , so the pulse of the stringes is in the Harpe .

Cordas autem primus Mercurius excogitauit : Isidor . Etym. Lib. 3. cap. 21. idemque prior in neruos sonum strinxit .

His fielde is of the Saphyre , a Psalterie in Bend sinister , Sawtrie , or Psaltrie . Topaze . His crest a wrest in Crosse , Sol , set on a chap●au Mars , turned vp Ermynes , manteled Rubie , doubled Ermynes . Isidore saithe , that Psalterium , quod vulgo Canticum dicitur , à psallendo nominatum , hathe his name of singynge , Quòd ad eius vocem Chorus consonando respondeat . The Harpe is like to the Psaltrie in sounde , but betwene them this is the difference . In the Psaltrie is an holowe tree , and of that same tree the sounde commeth vpwarde , and the stringes beinge smitten downewarde , Desuper : sonant . And in the Harpe the holownesse of the tree is beneathe .

The Hebrewes vsed to call the Psaltrie , Decacordon propter numerum decalogum Legis . And this Instrumente hathe but tenne stringes . The best stringes for the Psaltrie are made of Siluer , yet those bene good , whiche bene made of Laton .

The Wreste in Latin highte Plectrum . And whereas I descriued the saide Wreaste in Crosse , Wreste . yet take the same not to be twoo , but one Wreste , because a certaine holownesse muste be seene at euery pointe of the Crosse , wherewith the pinnes of the Psaltrie must be wrested diuersly , as they are of bignesse . Mercurius inuented the sundry kindes of stringes , and he firste streined them , and made them to sounde .

This Cote armoure of the saide Christian kinge , I noted as I founde the same painted amonge the reste of the Cotes of all Christian Princes , vpon the couer of the Fonte in the Cathedral churche of Yorke .

Yet Munsterus in his booke of Cosmographie , figurethe vnto the same Prince an other Cote armour : Videlicet , a Lyon Rampante vpon a Crosse , the mettall , or colours of the fielde , or tokens borne in the same , he describeth not . The other , as I haue seene the same , is rightly displayed bothe of the fielde , and the signes borne therein . Wherefore , I mynde here to speake but of the droppes vpon the saide Crosse , beinge blazed Guttie , and no mention made of coloure : whiche I thinke needeth not to be rehearsed , for that these droppes are of theire proper coloure , and are to be taken for droppes of bloude .

And therefore in an other manner take the blazon of the same noble kinge his armes , who beareth Mars , on a Crosse , Solis guttie . This name Christus , of the fielde , within a Crowne d'Espines proper . The droppes also here descriued haue a spirituall interpretation , whiche euery true , and christian harte maie rightly vnderstande , what they signifie .

Droppes . Other droppes there be , as droppes of raine and dewe . Suche droppes feede , and nourishe fishe in the sea , make Oysters fatte , and breede in them Pearles , and Pretious stones , as Isidore saithe , and namely the droppes of the morninge dewe . And althoughe a droppe be most neshe , yet by ofte fallinge it pierceth that thinge , that is righte harde , as this verse saithe : Gutta cauat lapidem , non vi , sed saepè cadendo . The harde stone is pierced with droppinge , Not by strength , but by ofte fallinge .

Stillie . The fielde is Uerte , Stillie , d'Argente . This is a righte little parte of water , or rayne , departed by somme violence from the whole , and is called Gutta , when it standeth , or hangeth on eauesinges , or of trees : and when it falleth , it is called Stilla : and thereof commeth Stillicidium , as it were a fallinge droppe .

A droppe hanginge , fallinge , or standinge , is in substance moste cleare , rounde in fourme , small , and strayte in the ouer parte , little in quantitie , and greate in vertue . For it moysteth the earthe that it falleth vpon , and maketh it plenteous , and fruitefull , feedeth , and nourisheth rootes and seedes , and maketh them growe : and quickeneth , and preserueth greenesse in trees , hearbes , & grasse . Therefore I haue descriued these styles in theire proper fielde .

G. beareth Azure , a Barre Gemewe , Or , betwene three handes sinister , Sinister hand Palme . d'Argente . The Tymbre , a palme of an hande dexter , d'Ermyne , sette on a Wreath Or , and Sable , manteled Azure , doubled Argente .

The token borne in this Cote armour , is a lefte hand . For it suffereth the righte handes woorke , and hathe that name Sinistra , of Sinere . to suffer ..

And the hande highte Palma , when the fingers benne streithte foorthe , as it were boughes , or braunches sprayed .

The Trewell is an auncient addition of Armorie .

What a Manche is taken to bee , I haue shewed in the first boke entituled the Concordes of Armorie . And touchyng the Margarites wherewith the sayd Manche is poudered . Chaucer , in hys seconde and thirde bokes , entituled , the Testament of loue , maketh a great processe of them , as gemmes very precious , clere , and little : And thus descriueth them , ( as he readeth in the workes of great clerkes , whyche entreate of the kyndes and propreties of thynges ) sayng , Margarite , or Margrit . that the Margarite is a little whyte pearle , throughout holowe and rounde , and verteous . And on the Sea sides in great Britayne in Muscle shelles , of the heauenly dewe , the beste bene engendred : in whiche by experience bene founde thre faire vertues . Chaucer . One is , it geeueth comforte to the felynge spirites in bodely persones of reason .2 . It is profitable to health , agaynst the passions of sorie mens hartes .3 . It is nedefull and noble in staunchyng of blode , there els to moche woulde oute runne .

The bearer thereof shoulde be stedfast , amiable , and in peace , vertuous also , with longe continuance in mekenes , that mother is of all vertues : shewing mercy & pitye with the harte towardes all men , embracing also peace , and folowing it . Therefore let all gentlemen suffer in no wyse thys iewell the Margarite to bee blemished , as nighe as they maye , but with harte and mynde studye to optayne the vertues that thereby are signified , and so through grace , for theire seruice , they shal be hyghely aduaunced .

Daisie . H. Beareth Ermyne , a Pale verte , semie de daysie , propre . Chaucer writeth moche of thys floure in many places of hys workes : and in especially in hys preface to the legend of good weomen , where he sayeth of hym selfe beynge in loue with thys floure in the moneth of Maye .

Leanynge on my elbowe and my syde . The longe day I shope me for to abide For nothing els , and I shall not lye , But for to looke vpon the Deysie That well by reason men it call maye The days eye , or els th' eye of the daye The empresse , and floure of floures all I pray to God that faire mought she fall And all that loue floures , for her sake But natheles , ne wene not that I Make , In praysinge of the floure agayne the leaf , No more than of the corne agayne the shefe .

And the sayd Chaucer writeth in a goodly Balade of hys also of the Daysie , where he calleth it , Daysie of lighte , verie grounde of comforte The sonnes daughter ( ye hyghte ) as I rede For when he westreth , Sonnes Daughter . farewel your disporte By your nature anone righte for pure drede Of the rude nighte , that with hys boistous wede Of darkenes , shadoweth our emispere Then closen ye , my lyues Ladye dere .

Floures do wel become louers , for that they take therein delite , and therefore are of greate dignitie in signes Armoriall .

The certayne quantitie of thys Planet is vnknowne to earthely dwellers . The Sonne , but he shine ( saieth Chaucer ) for sonne is not accompted : so vertue , but it stretcheth in goodnes or profit to an other , is no vertue , but into hys contrarie , the name shal be reuersed .

The fielde is of the Perle , Spurre . two Spurres in Pale , Rubye . Hys creste a mollet blemished Topaze , set on a wreath Perle , and Diamonde , manteled Saphyre , dobled Topaze . Chaucer sayeth that habite , maketh no moncke , ne wearing of gyite Spurres , maketh no knyghte .

These were th' armes of Tydeus , Tydeus hys Armes . the kinges sonne of Calcedonye , whiche hee did beare in hys shielde , at the destruction of the Citye Thebes . The Bore is called Aper , a feritate , ablata F. littera & subrogata P. Vnde & apud Graecos Syagros id est ferus dicitur . Thys Beaste is armed in hys mouthe with two croked tuskes , whiche are right strong and sharpe , and the same he vseth in steade of a sworde , and hys ryghte shulder is harde , brode and thicke , whiche he occupieth as a shielde to defende hym withal , putting that brawne for his chefe armoure against hys weapon that pursueth hym .

The Bore fighteth with the Wolffe , and hateth hym by kynde . For the wolffe lyeth in awayte for hys chyldren , & stealeth them full ofte .

The fielde is of the Topaze , Dragon . a Dragon , Emeraude .

Thys was th' Armes of Ethyocles kynge of Thebes , Ethyocles . which he did beare in hys shielde , whan he fought with hys brother Polymyte for the kyngdome , wherefore the one of them slue the other .

K. Beareth Azure , Cathedre . a Cathedre , or chaire Royal d'Or , adourned with Rubies propre . Suche a chaire is descryued by Chaucer in the thirde boke of Fame , where hee sayeth .

Fame satte in a seate Imperiall That made was of Rubye royall , Whiche that a Carboncle is I called . And there she was perpetually istalled . Carboncle .

Bores beade . The fielde is Sol , a Bores heade coped Saturne .

These were th' Armes of Sir Thopas , as in the metre made of hym maye appeare at large , in the workes of Chaucer .

Creaste . And for hys creste he bare a Tower Wherein sticked a Lillye floure Of coloures all most propre .

Here note th' antiquitie of Creastes .

Annulet . L. beareth Sable and gules parted per Fesse , an Annu● let d'Or , Asterites . hauing the gemme Asterites , propre .

Thys is a precious stone , and is whyte , and conteanethe as it were lyghte therein enclosed , or lyke a Sterre goyng within it , and maketh the Sunne beames white , whereof also it taketh hys name . Of hys vertues I neade not to speake , hys beautie and fayrenes bringeth hym commendacion sufficient . And of the geuing of Annullettes or rynges , there may be founde diuerse hystories , amongest whom I haue noted thys one . Lucius Silla . Lucius Sylla , beyng dictator of the Romaynes , gaue vnto Roscius a player in Comedyes a ryng of golde , whiche was the token of a knyghte at that tyme , as a coler or cheyne of golde is at thys time . Thys Roscius , for his excellencie in pronunciation and gesture , Roscius . the noble Cicero called hys Iewell , and so muche delited in hym , that he contended with hym , whether Roscius coulde set forthe one sentence in more fashions of gesture and contenance , or he expresse the same sentence in a more diuersitie of eloquente wordes .

And touching the token borne in the saide cote armour , yf a Crosse , Sterre , Cressante , or anie floure were figured on the same Annulet , it were a great beautefiynge of the sayde Armes , and no lyttle commendacion to the bearer .

Thys maye bee taken for a good token in armes , as of liberalitie , whan the same is not shutte . But being knitte , and so borne , it is a token of auarice : for so Chaucer writeth in the boke entituled the Romante of the Rose , where he sayeth .

Auarice helde in her hande . A pursse that hounge by a bande , And that she hidde , & bounde so stronge Men must abide wondre longe Out of the pursse ere there came ought For that ne commeth in her thoughte It was not certaine her entente That from that pursse a penny wente .

And further the same Chaucer , sayth in the sayde boke .

That a full greate foole is he ywis That both riche & poore & nigarde is A Lorde may haue no maner of vice That greueth more than auarice . For nigarde neuer with strengthe of hande May winne him great Lordshippe or lande . And whoso will haue frendes here He maye not holde his treasure dere . For by ensample tell I this Righte as an Adamante Ywis Adamante . Can drawe to him full subtillye The yron , that is layde therebye , So draweth folkes hertes ywys Siluer & golde that yeuen is .

M. Beareth verte , a kynge armed at all poynctes d'Argent , Kyng . bearynge a sceptre and crowne , Or , wynged d'Ermyne .

Mercurie . Thys maye bee taken for the God Mercurie , God of eloquence , for to diuerse he hath appeared , as hauing wynges , so in hystories of hym may be redde .

Thys was the Banner of Theseus , Theseus . whan he came to the destruction of Thebes Citye , & slue Creon kynge thereof . And thus Chaucer wryteth of the sayde Theseus hys banner , and penon in these wordes . Penon .

The redde statue of Mars with spere & targe So shyneth in hys whyte Banner large That all the fieldes glitteren vp & downe : And by hys Banner , borne is hys penon Of golde full riche , in whiche there was ybete Minotaure . The Minotaure that he wan in Crete .

Th' antiquitie of bearing armes . Thus it maye appere , that armes were long borne in good ordre , before the siege of Troye : for the destruction of the citye Thebes , was before that siege , as Ihon Lydegate doth affirme . Chaucer also , in the tale of the knyghte , describeth what token Lycurge the great kyng of Thrace dyd beare in the fielde . Lycurge king of Thrace . These be hys wordes .

In steade of a Cote armour ouer his harneys With nayles yealowe , Beares skin . and bright as any golde , He hath a Beares skinnne , cole blacke for olde .

This litle Historie is not vnworthy to be had in remembraunce .

N. beareth Sable , Ousle , or Blackebirde . three Owsles d'Argente , beaked , and legged , Or. The tymbre , a Bull gardant , Argente , armed , and vnguled Gules , sette on a Wreathe Sable , manteled Azure , doubled Argente .

The Owsle , or Blacke byrde singeth pleasantly , and therefore is ofte taken , and kepte in cage . This byrde , althoughe shee bee in all Countries blacke , yet in Achaiae shee is white , Bull. as Isidore saithe . This Creaste for the saide Cote armour , Isis. is a white Bul. Iupiter turned him into the similitude thereof , when louinge the faire mayde Isis , he could not otherwise haue his will of her . This signifieth , that beautie maie ouercome the beste .

The wholesome doctrine of S. Paule , is of all faithfull , and obediente subiectes to be receiued and embraced : where he saithe , Wilte thou be without feare of the power ? Doo well then , & thou shalte haue praise of the same : for he is the minister of God for thy wealthe . But if thou doo euill , then feare , for he beareth not the sworde for naught . For he is the minister of God , a taker of vengeance to ponishe him that dothe euill , &c.

Pillers . His fielde is Iouis , twoo pillers Lunae .

Diuerse Emperours , and puissante Conquerous haue erected Pillers in theire Empiers and kingedomes , for sundrie , and weightie causes and pourposes : some to declare the extentes , and lymittes of theire Landes , and Kingedomes , somme to shewe the expeditions of theire iourneyes and voyages , somme to sette forthe the places of theire burialles , somme to figure therein theire Actes , and valiaunt deedes , to the encouragemente of those that shoulde succeede them to doo the like . And other somme haue written therein the secret knowledge of certaine sciences and letters , as in diuerse Histories maie be readde . And more of Pillers ye maie reade in the nexte booke folowinge .

This in Latin is called Rastrum militare , siue Politicum , & serueth for defense in the gatis of Citties , Castles , Portes , & Towres . For the same being loosed , or let downe , it letteth , or rather oppresseth them that woulde enter thereby .

Eiusmodi ad portas militare obstaculum Romae factum fuisse scribit Appianus , Appian . Res Roman . Ciuili dissidio vrgente , & Imperium sibi vendicante Sylla . Sustulit hoc maleficium Carboniana turba , quam ( dum conarentur per portam Collinam irruptionem facere ) Sylla repressit : laxatisque insidiarijs Rastris , intrò latebat , quorum iniuria , & lapsu , Senatores ipsi nonnulli , & qui se in Carbonianam libertatem adseruerant , oppressi sunt .

When he is pursued of hunters , and seeth he cannot escape , he taketh stones with his hoofe , & casteth againste his enimies , and oftentimes hurteth them . When he is killed , there is founde stones , and yron in his stomake , whiche he consumeth after longe digestion .

He hatethe the Horse by kinde . I founde him figured in the Cosmographie of Munster , as before is descriued .

Q. beareth Geules , on a Bende betwene twoo Cotizes , d'Argente , Siphons . thre Siphons , Sable . Isidore saithe , that the Siphon is a certaine vessell , whiche men of the Easte countries vse to occupie , and fill with water , especially when houses beene on fire , to quenche the same . The fourme I haue descriued here , as Paradyne figureth it amonge his diuises Heroiques .

R. beareth Saturne and Mars , parted per Pale , twoo Partizantes Lunae in Saltier . Partezant . These weapons are commonly knowne , and borne about the persons of Princes , Nobles , and Captaines .

Launce . S. beareth Syluer , a Launce betweene twoo Flaunches , Sable : and on the Flaunches , twoo Gauntlettes , as the fielde .

The especial token borne in this Ensigne , is taken for a Dimilaunce staffe , whiche beinge the chiefeste weapon of the horseman , is therefore congruently placed betwene twoo Gauntlettes , Gauntlet . the moste especiall armoure of the handes .

Scocheon . T. beareth Gold , on a Scocheon Gules , a key d'argent , wrapped about with a Serpent Uert . This Cote armour touching the fielde , is one of the honorable ordinaries charged .

When as Quintus Fabius , Q. Fabius . ( beyng Dictator or principall capitayne of the Romaynes ) had trayned & drawne Anniball & hys hoste into a fielde , Anniball . inclosed about with mountaines and depe ryuers , where Fabius had so enuironed him and hys armye , that they were in ieopardye , eyther to bee famished , for lacke of vitaile , or els in flying , to be slayne by the Romaines , Anniball perceauing these dangers , commaunded to be brought afore hym , in the depe of the night whan nothing was stirrynge , about two thousande great oxen and bulles , which a little before hys men had taken in forrageyng , and caused fagottes made of drie stickes to be fastened vnto theire hornes , Terror and error . and sett on fyre . The beastes troubled with the flambe of fire , ranne as they were woode vp towarde the mountaynes , whereas laye the hoste of the Romaynes , Anniball with hys whole armye folowing in araye . The Romaines , whiche kepte the mountaynes , being sore afrayde of this newe and terrible sight , forsoke theire places . Fabius . And Fabius dreading the deceiptfull witte of Anniball , kept hys armye within the trenche , and so through policie Anniball with his hoste escaped without damage . Thus ye maye vnderstande , ( as I sayde before ) how greatly histories do geue lighte to the hydde secrettes of Armorie .

The Eagle whan he hathe gathered muche duste in hys fethers , doth then withoute feare set vpon the Harte , and falleth euen betwene hys branches : and beatinge with hys wynges , so stoppeth the Hartes eyes with duste , vntill at length he falleth hedlonge from some hyghe hyll or rocke , and so becommeth a praye to the Eagle . Industrie , labor , & diligence , is to be vsed , whan difficulte , weightie , & hyghe matters , are to be ouercome .

P. Beareth Gules and Sable , parted per bende sinistre , a Lyon rampaunt d'Or , vibrante a sworde d'Argente .

Pompeyus magnus . Pompey the great had suche a Lyon grauen in hys signet . vide in vitis Plutarchi .

The fielde is partie per baste barre vndade , Argente , and Uerte , Shippe . a shippe vnder sayle in her ruffe , Sable .

The vse of shippes , and of theire ordinance is knowne to all men .

He beareth Or , thre Anckers in bende sinistre , betwene two Gartiers , azure .

Ancker . Admirall . Th' Ancker is especially ascribed to Admiralles , in signum ( vt apparet ) officij sui in expeditionibus , prouincijsque naualibus .

He beareth partie per pale Nebule , Saturne , and Venus , two maces bellicall Solis circumliged with braunches of Oliue , propre . The token borne in thys cote armoure , is called in latyn Claua bellica , whiche beyng bounde about , Oliuae ramusculo , may exhibite vnto them to whom it is offered , a signe aswell of peace , as of warre , whiche to take , is at his pleasure to whome it is offered .

The Harrowe is a noble addicion of Armorie , & was borne ( as Froyssarde sayeth ) of William , the sonne of Albert duke of Bauarie in hys auncient , about the yere of oure Lord God .1390 . And the same Harrowe he did aduaunce , in his voyage with the Cristians , aduersus Aphricam Barbariae ciuitatem . The office of the Harrowe , is to breake and resolue the harde lumpes and cloddes of earth . Quemadmodum autem glebas , & grumos agrorum proscindit & resoluit rastrum aratorium , ita facilè est vero principi , legum , & Sanctionum , atque cautionum , seu Decretorum aequitate ditionis suae improbos , factiosos , rebelles , & tumultuarios , quique contra suam autoritatem , ac dignitatem iniquè se opponunt , coercere .

He beareth partie per Cheuron embatiled , Or , & Azure , three Leures , Lewre . contrechanged of the fielde . The token borne in thys Scocheon , is well knowne to all gentlemen Fawkeners . The worde , or Poesie that mighte ryghtely be applied to thys cote armoure , is thys : Spe illect at inani .

The dexteritie of Domitiane th' Emperoure in castynge of the darte , Domitiane . is worthie of rememberance : Darte . who in the huntyng of a certayne wilde beaste , threwe two dartes at hym so directly , that the beaste semed to stande hauyng hornes on hys heade , wheras nature had geuen hym none . Paradyne figureth the heade of the beaste , as hauyng two dartes in place , where hornes shoulde growe .

Plutarche writeth , that when Scylurus Chaeronensis was about to dye , Scilurus Charonensis . hauinge fower score goodly chyldren , and of greate strength , he offered to euerye one of them a Bondell of dartes or roddes to breake , which whan they endeuored themselfes to doe , they coulde not :

He than sayde vnto them , that the dartes and roddes so made faste and knitte together , could in no maner of wise be broken . Bondle . But the father vnlosing the Bondle befor them , did take one rodde after an other , and without any great force or busynes , did breake the same , aduertisinge them hereby , that they all shoulde continue and remayne for euer vnuanquished , and not able to be ouercome , as longe as they agreed , and were surely knitte in brotherly loue , and perfecte concorde . But yf they deuided them selues , or parted with sedition and debate , that then they shoulde perishe , and quickely fall into the handes of theire enemies . A goodly example to embrace concorde . Serpente . By the Serpente about the dartes , may be signified that which Christe spoke in the gospell to his disciples , saiyng . Be ye wise as Serpentes &c. Therfore note , that there be many significations and secrete mysteries in bearing signes and tokens of armorye .

U. beareth barrie vndie 6. pieces d'Ermine , and azure , the prore of a shippe d'Or in chefe gules , Fore parte of a shyppe . one hounde passante , Argent . The token in thys escocheon is the fore parte of a shippe , and is garded with a dogge on chefe , as it were to watche the same . Suche a like ensigne did Sergius Galba the Emperour vse to beare .

W. Beareth per pale Rubye , and Diamonde , an Eagle d'Ermine encorporate with a Dragon , Eagle , with the Dragon . Solis .

These are enemies alwayes the one to the other . The Dragon greately desiring the egges of the Eagle , deuoureth and eateth vp the same : wherefore the Eagle , wheresoeuer he seeth hym , fighteth with him , and in theire fight he is often wrapped with the Dragons taile , and so falling downe , the one is destroyed of the other . Eadem elatis , ac superbioribus inter se contendentibus ruina solet vsu venire .

The Cocke is a Royal foule , and naturally beareth on hys heade a creaste of Rubye coloure , in stede of a Crowne or diademe . He distinguisheth tymes , seazons , and houres , both of the daye and nyghte , crowynge , or rather syngyng moste clerely and strongely . The Lyon dreadeth the white Cocke , because he bredeth a precious stone , called Allectricium , like to the stone that highte Calcedoneus . And for that the Cocke beareth suche a stone , the Lyon specially abhorreth hym . Ab Galli alitis tubaeque horologio non difficile relinquitur iudicare , quantum intersit inter belli & pacis conditiones . The cocke is messenger of the daye lyght , he singeth whan he hath the victorye , being ouercome he hydeth hymselfe . Lucemque & hominum aspectum refugit .

W. beareth verte , an arming Sworde in pale d'Argent crowned at the poyncte in ●hefe , Sworde crowned . betwene two floures de Lucies d'Or . The sworde in thys cote armoure , is a protection to the floures therein borne .

Tergate . The fielde is Gules , a Tergate d'Or , transfixed with a Raper Argente .

Thys maye bee taken for the ensigne of some noble capitayne , who had valiauntly behaued and borne hymselfe in the fielde , with losse also of hys lyfe .

Crosse pottate . Oure master Christe , beyng the sonne of God , and God , was constreigned to beare an heauy crosse on his shoulder , in suche fashion as is before descriued : wherein afterward both hys handes and fete were nayled with longe and great nayles of yron : and the crosse with hys naked and bloodie bodie , beyng lifte vpon height , was let fall with violence into a mortayse , that all hys ioynctes were dissolued . And notwithstandinge all thys torment , hee neuer grudged , but liftyng vp hys eyes vnto heauen , he prayed for hys enemies , saynge : Father forgiue them , for they knowe not what they do . Thys was the charitie moste incomparable of the sonne of God employde for the redemption of mankynde .

Piller of Porpherie . Y. Hys fielde is of the Pearle , two pillers of Porpherie , in Saltier .

I nede not here to blaze the colour of the Pillers , beynge Porpherie , whiche is a stone alwayes of purple coloure . Let the bearer therof see that he be specially endowed with the vertue , Fortitude .

Hanniball , Rynges sent to Carthage . for a testimonie of the victorye he had of the Romaynes in Italye , sente 3. Bushels of golden rynges to Carthage , whiche he had taken & plucket of the handes of the Romayne knyghtes , capteynes and senators . Let the bearer of such a coate ( as is before displayde ) reioyce in aduersitie .

The fielde is Checkey , gules , and ermynes , a boke Or , with claspes d'Argente .

A Boke is to be borne of hym , Boke . whiche is studious of anye the sciences or tongues : and which hath a certayne excellencie therein aboue others . Cato Vticensis . Cato , called Vticensis , was so muche enflamed in the desire of learninge , that ( as Suetonius writeth ) he coulde not tempre hym selfe in readinge Greke bokes , whiles the Senate was sitting .

Thys Cato was named the chiefe piller of the publike weale of the Romaines .

These be water Horsses , called Hippotami , and are chefely sene in the studdes of Nile , & Gange . Munsterus describeth these beastes , and sayeth they haue two hoofes like an Oxe , the backe , mayne , and neiyng of an Horsse , a wrigled tayle , & croked tethe like to a Bore . I haue charged the same beastes , but on halfe wise in the fielde , as it were passinge from the water : whiche note well and marke , and then I doubte not but the deuise of the same will contente some mans fantesie .

These are noble ensignes & of great antiquitie . Kateren whele . Yet of wheeles , the Katheren whele , so called of olde , is of moste honor : and must be figured after an other forme than those I haue before blazed Willigise , archebishop of Mogunce in Germanye , assumpted for his ensigne a Cart wheele , Carte wheele . with thys inscription : Willigise memineris quid sis , & quid olim fueris , and afterwarde the same wheele was giuen and confirmed by the Emperoure , to be th' ensigne of the sayd Archebishoprike for euer .

B. He beareth d'Ermines , and Or , parted per pile in poyncte of the chefe , Pheon . a Pheon , Sable .

Thys particion as it is rare sene , so can it not lacke ( beyng thus charged ) hys due commendacion .

Insignia poetarum The Swanne is the ensigne of the Poets , whose fielde is Azure a Swanne propre . Alciate comendeth this ensigne lib. i. Embl. Cvtj. wherefore I referre what I could write more hereof to Stockhamer his comentaries vpon the same Emblem̄ .

The Tenche in latin is called Tinca a fyshe as Ausonius describeth it for the poore mans dishe , Tenche for that in auncient time it was a common meate for their diet , and although in theis our dayes it is well accepted and taken for a good kinde of fishe , bothe necessarie for foode , and to medicyne , yet in the olde time , the richest men made litle estimacion thereof , wherefore the comon people were best acquaynted with the same , as the saide author witnesseth in thys verse or sentence .

Quis non & videris vulgi solatia , Tincas norit . Who dothe not know in eche degree , a Tenche , the commoners meate to bee .

This Tenche before dysplayed is called Tinca marina , a Tenche of the sea , and lyuethe neyther in mudde or myer , but is cleane from suche infectyons , and therefore is not hurtful . The foresaide fielde & the contentes in the same , do signifie the bearer to haue audacitie , yet in al honestye : and to be curteous with muche discrecion . Then signe appertayneth to the name of Roscarech , alias Roscarrocke in Cornewal . His creaste a Lion rampant propre colour , armed and langued Azure , aboute his necke a Crownall siluer , set on a Torce golde and Azure , as maye appears aboue figured .

The fielde is barrye of vitj. peeces Luna and Mars , Ibis one a canton Iouis the mighty planet Sol , his creaste is Ibis head Saturne couped , erassing a serpent of the Moone , sette on a wrethe Topaze and Saphire , manteled Diamond , doubled pearle . Ibis is a foule of Egipt , & as Aristotle saieth is in that countrey white and at Pelusum onely blacke , it is an high bird , hauing stiffe legges , and a long bill , they bee caried out of Libia into Egipt with a sotherne winde , and do much good there to the countrey in killing and eating of serpents Semetipsam purgat rostro in ann aquam fundens , this bird is like vnto that whiche is called Ciconia .

He beare the partye ꝑ pale Saturne & Mars a flower de lize Luna . Alcion̄ . And to his creaste vpon the helme on a wreathe Topaze and saphiere an Alcian volant of the Amatist , mixte wyth Pearle , beaked as the Emeraud , mounted on the nest texed with the slipps of the vine propre , manteled Ruby , doubled Pearle , this is a birde of the sea , little more then a Sparow , which in the colde winter season dothe lay her egges on the sands , and when the sea is most troublous tantam gratiam diuinitus habet that it becometh sodeinly calme , and the stormes and windes do cease vntill the birde haue all hatched , and brought vp her chickens , and made them able to flee , whiche is in the space of .xiiij. daies , whiche the shipmen diligently marke , fearinge no tempest all those dayes , looke sebast . stockhamer his comentaries vpon the .xix. Emblem . of Alciate . The propre colours of the saide bird ar as is before discribed . She lyueth by fishe , Kings fisher . and is taken for that whiche we call the kinges fisher .

He beareth Azure a cheuron on chiefe betweene twoe decressāts Argent . Ligurinus . The timber , a Ligurines head rassed vert , Grene finche . bearing a thistel Or , set on wrethe Argent & Sable manteled Gules , doubled Or , The birde Lugurinus feedeth muche vpon thistles , and of nature is enemy to the Asse , sed valet vocis amenitate , some suppose this birde to be a greene fynche , Nightingale and as seruius writeth is taken to be the Nightingalle . These deuises Heroique before figured , might suffise for the proofe how cote armours wyth their blason heaume & timbre in sundrie wise be borne , to the honor and comendacion of the bearer : and vppon what ground they haue their originall , the which the officers at armes do cheifly respect in their assignements to gentlemen , and no signe or token armoriall is by them deuised , but the same is congruent and agreable to the vertues and qualities wherewith the bearer is pryncypally endowed , and with which token he also delighteth , and so he ought to take delight therein , as to defende the same ( euen to the death ) from all challinge or vituperie , which rule of al the degrees of nobilitie ought neuer to be forgotten . But nowe what significacion may be truelye collected and gathered of anye Simboll armorial , commonlye called Armes , and what the colours therein doe represent , by the planets or stones precious , to the renowme and fame of the bearer , one plainly for example nowe nexte doth ensue , the whiche of bounden duety I maye not omit .

The atcheuement conteyning the sundry coates as they are marshalled and borne by the right honorable Lorde , Sir William Cecill , Baron of Broughley , and knyght of the most honorable ordre of the Garter , is thus to bee blased .

1 He beareth barruley of .x. Argent and Azure , sixe Escocheons Sable . 3.2.1 . charged wyth as manye Lyons rampant of the first , langued Gules , borne by the name of Cecill .

2 The fielde is parted per pale , Gules & Azure , a Lion rampant de Argent sustayning a tree Uert , borne by the name of winstone .

3 Beareth Sable , a plate betwene three towers tryple towred with portes displayed de Argent , borne by the name of Cairleon .

4 His fielde is Argent , on a bend betweene two cotizes Gules three sinquefoiles de Or , borne by the name of Eckinton .

5 Beareth Argent , a churon betweene three Rockes de Ermines , and is borne by the name of Walcot .

The sixt as the first , the which , and the seconde are differenced vpon them bothe with a cressant , which signifieth that he is of a second brother to bothe those houses , from whence in bloud hee is lineally descended . All whiche atchieuementes before displayed , is within the Garter cotized of two Lions de ermine , to his creaste vpon an healme on a Torce Or and Azure , a garbe de Or , supported with two Lions , the one Azure & the other Argent , manteled Gules , doubled Argent . To these before discriued , is added his Apothegme or word . Cor vuum via vna , that is , one hart , one way . The sincerity & temperance of this noble baron as there they be by his propre ensigne openly signified , so his great wisedome & vertue in preferring iustice , and the publike weale of his countrey before anye priuate affection or singuler apetites , are also thereby certeinly declared , the orient Pearle beinge so often and preciously treasured in the fielde and contents of his coate armour . And truelie that man is most mete to be a nighe counsaillour , in whom sinceritie and temperance be ioyned with wisedome , suche one shal bringe to the pallace of his prince , an honorable remembrance of his iustice and vigilaunce , and as well to noble as to vnnoble shal be an excellent patterne and president .

The shields charged with Lions are of the Adamant , a stone precious and of such hardines , vt si super incudem positus acerrimo percutiatur malleo ante malleus & incus vulneribus acceptis dissiliant quam ipse frangatur comminaturue , nec fieri solum ictus respuit sed resistit etiam igni cuius ardore adeo non acquiescit numque incalescat si Plinio credimus adeo non feodatur vt purior fiat , attamen singularis eximiaque lapidis illius duritia calido hirci Leonisue cruor ita mollescit vt dissoluatur . Cece . offi. li. ● In armorie it representeth fortitude a vertue that fighteth in defence of equitie , Adamas venena deprehendit , et irrita facit . The nobilitie of the Lyon is moste aboue all other beastes to bee marueled at , in that he in his great heate , seketh not the death of any creature that yeldeth it selfe vnto him , iuxta commune prouerbum ▪ parcere prostratis sic nobilis ira Leoni : The fielde wherein he abideth is of the Rubie party de Saphiere , two gemes very precious , and of great dignitie . The Rubie dothe demonstrate charitie , the Saphiere loyaltie , the one auayling againste the byting of the Scorpion , the other being maruelously effections againste all venime , but of the twaine , the Saphiere is moste vertuous , Helinandus in his historie this wryteth of it . Saphirus caelo sereno similis est , caste portari vult gemmaqz gemmarum et lapis sanctus dicitur . Io. Ferox , La coulour & piere Saphirique , recomforte le sence de le home , & profit counter les enuies , fraudes , & terreurs , incitant & ꝓuoquant le home a paix et amour victore &c. The portes set open in a fielde Saturne , geeuethe libertie bothe to passe forthe at will , and to come in when it pleaseth , to carry forth , and also to bring in . Porta dicitur quiae potest importari vel exportari aliquid , proprie autem porta aut vrbis aut castrorum vocatur . Isidor Etimo lib. 15. cap. 2. The cause of theire construction , is to propulse the force of the enemye , for the common safetie of the countrie , and ought alwayes to be in the possession or kepinge of suche personnes , that embrace obedience and loyaltye , and detest treason & treacherie , and the bearing of them in coate armoure , dothe represent no lesse .

In the fowerth parte is seene on a bende marcial , three Cinquefoiles so called of the nomber of their leues , flowers of great estimacion , and worthye of bearinge , for their auncientie in Armes , for they hauing fiue leaues , do represent fiue sundrye graces , Isidore as to bee perfect in all sences , which are tasting , hearing , seeyng , feelinge and smelling , and learning must be optayned at gods hande to vse these aryght , for that is moste nedefull in a ruler , who aboue other oughte to excell in knowledge for the better gouernment of the people . The flowers aforesaid bee of Golde , Bartho , de ꝓpri rerum . li. 16. whiche resembleth the sonne . Aurum est in corporibus sicut sol inter stellas , sol autem dicitur rex stellarum & lumen earum sic aurum est quasi rex rerum corporalium & mensura omnium , & quanto rubicundius tanto melius est . Or en armorye represente iustice , noblesse , puretie , splendure , droyture , obedience , le home delectable , tractable , clare , & egal , Now ensueth Minerua her poore placynge of these Rocks , in that moste ingenious game of chesse , a game inuented for rulers and magistrates , and not for Momus or his insensate chore , their office is knowne to all that can playe wel at the sayde game , as to garde the kinges and Queenes with all the people on the chesse borde , and signify in armorie , vigilance in defence and suertie of the prince and countrye . The fielde wherein these rockes be placed , beyng of the pearle , betokeneth puritie of conscience , and singuler good will & loue euen to mortall enemies .

The Garter is de Azure celeste & Saphirique , adorned with this most noble title ( Gallicis verbis ) Honye soit qui male pense , which Polidore hath this in latin , vituperetur qui male cogitat .

The Garbe is of the Sonne royally supported with two Lyons , leaste the malignitie and cruell attemptates of the deuelishe rablement , and wicked sowdanes , myght deuour and consume the graine of such an orient sheaff , & so altogether is with the said noble beastes ( in forme first displayed ) ryght honorably defended , and valiantly garded , whereby is vttered , how innocents are by this chiualler courteous , his trauell and dilligence as well in comon causes as priuate , defended and assisted , & their causes also daylie moste studiously discussed , Pater est orphanorum et iudex viduanum . Thus for breuitie I cease anye further to protracte the discription of the foresayde ensignes , desiringe almighty god to bee vnto the bearer thereof , a shielde and buckler , a suer castell and strong tower , for his defence against the assaults of all his enemies , that in long life , health felicitie and honour , and also with one hart , one waye , to god , his prince , and her lawes , hee may continue his estate & vertuouslye mainta●n the tokens and prises of noblenes , as by me the collector hereof ( rude and voide of all eloquence ) are as before simply discryed , and homelye vttered , yet suche as they bee , I eftsones commend them , and those that here ensue to his good lordship as a chosen patron , to whom I may safely yelde & commit these sundrye collectyons of signes armoryal , besechyng him the same in as good part to receyue , as I here againe , do humbly offer them vnder the protection and fauour of his name .

Sapiens in populo haereditabit honorem , et nomen illius erit viuens in eternum . Ecclesiastes . 37.

Storke , Ciconia . He beareth partie per fesse Sable and Ermine , in chief a cressant between .ij. letters of S de Argent , and to his Crest vpon the Helme on a wreathe , Or and Azure , a Storks head rassed Argent Pellete , between .ij. winges Sable , beaked Golde , mantled Gules , dubled Argent . The Storke is taken to be that byrde , whiche in Latten is called Ciconia , and is of the figure of an Heron , but is greater and is all white , sauing the tops of his winges , his bill and legges be red , although I haue here discribed them the contrarye , whiche is but my deuice for example sake , they vs naturall enemies to serpentes and do ●lea them , when they be olde , their birdes feede them , and prouide meate for them , & volandi impotentes humeris gestant , wherefore the Image of them was the token of iustice , and the auncient kings had it in the tops of their septers , whereby theye were admonished to auance iustice and pietie , and to oppresse iniustice & crueltie , Inter omnes alias aues pietatis simbolum gerit , & de immensa earum pietate erga suos pullos refert Isidorus in lib. de natura auium Ciconiae magna cura alunt vicissim parentes iam aetate deficientes sola bonitate naturae ad id agendum impulsae inquit Aelian lib. 15. cap. 4. Of this bird came a greeke word for a prouerbe Antepelargeni , which signifieth to be lyke a storke , which prouerbe is to exort men to bee kinde to their parentes , or to their masters whiche teache and bring them vp , requiting the benefit whiche they receyued of them .

The Noble Citie of Excester for th ensigne thereof , hath in a fielde parted per pale Mars and Saturne , a castell triple towred Solis , supported of two Pegasus lunae , wyth winges vndie Pearle and Saphiere , Manes and shooes of the Topaze . The creast vpon an healme on a Torce Sol and Saturne , a demie Lyon Martis crowned , holdinge a Mounde , whereuppon is set a crosse botonie Topace , manteled Rubie , doubled Pearle .

The true fidelitie that this Citie hath alwaies borne to their liege and soueraigne , is most worthely reported in diuers chronicles , to the great and renowmed fame of the Citizens therein inhabitinge , who moste faithfully in the time of diuers auncient prynces , haue manfully defended their citie from the spoile of the rebellious enemy . And amongst other , vnder that most prudent prince king Henry the seuenth , when it was enuironed & lyke to be enflamed by that traiterous rebel Perken warbek , ouercomming fyer by fyer , and fortifiyng places vnfortefied , at the last , they so couragiously lyke valiant champions , defended their portes , posternes , and walles , that after many daungerous assaultes , they droue away the sayde Parken with the rablement of his rebellious army . How much also & how worthely are they to be commended for their faithfull seruis in the time of king Edward the sixt , who being in the middest of rebells , vnuitailed , vnfurnished , vnprepared for so long a siege , dyd nobly holde out the continual and daungerous assault of the rebell , for they sustayned the violence of the rebellious rout , not onely when they had plenty enough of victuall , but also a leuen or twelue daies after the extreme famin came on them , and liuing without bread , weare in courage so manfull , and in duetye so constant , that they thought it muche better to die the extreame deathe of hunger , shewing truth to their king , and loue to their countrey , then to geue any place to the rebell and fauor him with ayde , whose examples god graunt , all cyties may follow and learne to be noble by Excester , whose truethe dothe not onely deserue longe prayses , but also great rewarde .

He beareth vert , the wings of an Egle de Argent , and to his creast vpon the healme on a wrethe Or & Azure , an head de cheual rassed de Argent , pellitie betwene two winges Sable , brydebled golde , set on a wrethe Argent and Uert , manteled Gules , doubled Argent . It hath bin & is to be seen , that Angels are painted fetherd and winged , declaring vnto vs thereby ( as I read ) that they be alien and cleane from al earthly cogitacion , and ben rapt vp aboue to the inuest contemplacion of the loue of god , and they are also figured hauing winges , to signifie their swift discourse in all things , the windes are said to haue winges , propter velocitatem scilicet , vnde scriptura sacra dicit , qui ambulat super pennas ventorum . Paradine discribethe lightening to haue winges , that god of eloquence Maercurie appeared to diuers winged , I suppose men in these our dayes haue winges also , and flye contrarye to nature , but I doubt they be counterfet winges , as those whom Icarus made to flye with all , whiche when he had set them together with wax , Icarus . and ioyned to his syde faste and suer inough as he thought , hee mounted vp into the ayre , but so sone as the Sonne had somwhat heated him , and his wax began to melt , hee fell downe into a greate ryuer where hee was drowned out of hand , the whyche water was euer after called by his name , Icarum mare , the lyke fall had Bellerophon , when hee tooke vpon hym to ascend vppon Pegasus the horse that had winges , nowe what other thynge dothe these signifie vnto vs , but that no man shoulde meddle with thynges aboue hys compasse .

Candlesticke . Alce . He beareth Azure & Gules , parted with a Cheuron betwene three Candlesticks de Argent . His creast , the beast Alce propre , leaning to an Oke Uert , set on a torce de Or and Gules , manteled Sable , doubled Or , supported with a Beuer argent , coloured & vnguled Sable , and an Harpie Uert , Wynged de Or. The Alce discribed for the creast of the said coate armour , is a wilde beast in the woods of Germany , in facion & skinne like to a fallowe Deere , but greater , & hath no iointes in his legges : and therefore he doth neuer lye , but leane to a tree when he doth rest him . The hunters knowing this , do saw the trees that they vse to leane to , Beuer Fiber . Castor ▪ Otter . Harpie . halfe a sunder , wherby they fall downe and be taken . Of the supporters , the one is a Beuer , a beast called in latin Fiber , or Castor , whose stones are vsed in medicine . He hath the taile of a fishe , and in the residue is like to an Otter . The other assistant is an Harpie , a monstruous bird , hauing the visage of a maid , and talons of a maruelous capacitie . I dyd omit to speak any thing of the tokens aboue blazed in the coate armor nexte aforesaide , whyche I shoulde haue firste desplayd , but the vse of candelstickes is very well knowne to all men , and wherefore theye serue . Theye bee called Candelabra , a candelis quasi candelafera , Candelabra . Sir Peter Carew . quod candelas ferant .

Gold also as it is the most principal mettal of al to worldly men , A vicene . lib. 33. cap. 4. so it is the soueraigne guide to marcial affaires . For where Mars can not rule , he taketh place .

Thus it is prooued that golde is victorious , but assuredly the bearer thereof in coate armour , ought ( if his field be al thereof ) to be supplyant and meeke .

The Lions in the said fielde , are in their gentle nature , nor haue any ferocitie in them , beyng passant and ruled by the Sonne , who geeueth them lyght to their trauail , that they may the sooner ouercome the enemye : & theye considering their estate , are enemies to none , for al their hautye courage .

The Lyon liueth long , Clementia Leonis in prostratis because plerique dentibus defecti reperiuntur . The Lyon onelye of all beastes is gentle , and not lightlie angrye , in supplices , nam prostratis parcit , et vbi saeuit , in viros prius quam in faeminas fremit , in infantes non nisi magna fame adactus grassatur . Leonum animi iudex est canda , sicut & equorum aures . If he be moued or stirred , Primum cauda verberat terr●m , deinde crescente ira flagellat tergum . He long reteyneth his wrathe , as it were paciently suffring the iniurie done vnto hym . Mars occupieth the fielde of the saide coate armour , and the content therin is Solis , wherby prowesse is signified , with desire of fame . It is borne by the name of Fitzherbert .

1 He beareth two demie Lions passant gardant de Or , Hatche by the name of Hache .

2 His fielde is de Argent , Dillon a Lyon saliant Gules , debrused with a Barre de Azure , betweene three cressants and as many Estoiles montans of the seconde : borne by the name of Dillon .

The said coate armor is borne by the name of Strangwayes .

1 He beareth Sable , a Cheuron betwene three Sinistre handes copie de argent . This was the coate of Gilbert at Hall yate of Shireburne in Elmet , a Gentleman of auncient name and also coate armour , as is recorded of him in many writings yet apparant .

2 His fielde is of Gules , a Fesse betwene three Cressaunts de Or , borne by the name of Okeham .

The saide coate armoure is borne by the name of Sacheuerell .

Thus those prises in coates armoures , whiche are of many called Fusils , that is to saye Spyndles , may aptly be taken for pillers .

Fusille in latin , Columnae fuse , aut fusiles , and so to bee blazed in armes , since that suche a mighty conquerour , and prince moste prudent , as Charles the great was , thought good to erect Pillors fusible of stone verie preprecious , in perpetual remembrance of spynners crafte ,

This coate beinge charged on the Fesse , beautifiethe it muche , so as the armorie can not bee but perfite and good , if it be well considered of . A water boudge also parted per Pale , of the mettal , and colour aforesaide , maye congruently stande for a creast of the saide coate armour .

Note also , that there may be vsed in coate armour , particion per Squere , although it be rare seene .

1 Argent a Cheuron Gules , borne by the name of Stoket 2 Argent , a Cheuron Sable , by the name of Mordante . 3 Or , a Cheuron de Azure , by the name of Clopton . 4 Or , a Cheuron Uerte , by the name of Iudge .

Of the like particion be these which folow , the fields wher of occupy sundry tokens , as the reader maye easelye perceyue the soueraygntie of the same particions .

1 Argent , a Cheurō betwen thre Martelets Sable , borne by the name of Apton . 2 Argent , a Cheuron Gules , betweene three Hurtes by the name of Baskeruile . 3 Gules , a Cheuron Argent , betwene three Escallops , de Or , by the name of Chamberleyne . Pudsey . 4 Uert a Cheuron betwene three Mulletes de Or , persed , by the name of Pudsey : 5 Sable , a Cheuron betweene three Trefoiles de Argent , by the name of Vurgy . Vurgy Violes .

Atque altam supra , volat Ardea nubem .

The Heron aboue the highe cloudes dothe flye , so as one can scarce her decerne with eye . Vocatur etiam ob id ardea , qd , ardua suo volatu petat . She maketh her nest on highe trees , and hathe a naturall hatred to the Hauke , Sicut vicissim accipiter exitium illius continuo querít . For they skirmishing on high in the aire , go about this one thing , whether of them in flyinge highest , can exceede the other . If the the Hauke optaine the higher place , she ouerthroweth the Heron vehemently , and fleeth her , but if the Heron do get aboue the Hauke , she defileth her with her excrement and killethe her , for her dung is poyson to the Hauke , and rotteth her fethers . The sayde coate is borne by the name of Heron.

These instruments are beste knowne to suche as worke in Tymber , and are verie auncient addycions in armorye .

He beareth quarterly d'or & azure 3. flours de luce on a Bye . Chelcelettes . a bende of the first & second . The said coate armour apperteineth to master Iohn Bye .

2 He beareth a shielde quartered of the Topaze & Saphire , a Chalcelet on the first quarter Diamonde .

Thys birde is seldom seene , for she frequenteth the montaines , as Aristotle saieth ) and is longe and blacke , like to a certaine Hawke called Palumbarius , or to the birde called Ptynge , that flieth the most parte by night , & taketh his praye , more Aquilae , & fighteth so cruelly with the Eagle , that they being wounden together , fall downe both to the grounde , and so are taken of shepherdes on liue . Chalcis non clare videt .

The signe borne in thys cote armour is a right hande , called in latine Dextera , and hath the name of Dare , to giue , for suretie of peace is geeuen therewith : and it is also the witnesse of faith and truste , & hoc est illud apud Tullium fidem publican iussu senatus dedi , id est dexteram . And the apostle Paule saieth , Iames , Cephas , & Ihon , which semed to be pillers , gaue me & Barnabas the right hands , ( & agreed with vs ) that we shuld preache among the heathen , & they among the Iewes &c. The fiste desplaied for the creaste aforesaid , is called Pugnu ▪ in Latine , because the fingers be clighte in . Pugnus autem a pugilla dictus : sicut palma ab expausis palmae ramis .

This coate hath bene borne by the name of Barkley , and whereas in the said martiale fielde , there is displaid three Crosses , the same do put me in remembraunce of a certaine miraculous fortune , whiche happened vnto the Romaine Emperour Tiberius , a prince vpright in iustice , Tiberius . Constantinus pure in life , & cleane in conscience : who gouerned the whole empire so prudently & syncerely , that no man was able to reproue him , if the histories whiche are written of him do not deceiue vs . Paulus Diaconus in hys xviij . booke , which he writte de Romanorum gestis , doth declare that this Emperour Tiberius spent so great treasours about the repairinge his decaied palaces , to redeme poore captiues , to builde hospitals , to erect monasteries , to marie & prouide for the orphanes & widowes , in all which he was so bountiful , that vnneth he had any thing left to mainteine hys Royall estate & householde . Truely thys was a blessed necessitie , for what can be better bestowed , than that which is emploied in the seruice of Christe . And of thys pouertie the Emperoure was not ashamed , but thought it a great glorie , yet one thig greued hym moche , whiche was to see Sophia the empresse reioi●e so moche at hys miserie . For the highe and noble hartes , which feele themselues wounded , do not so moche esteme theire own paine , as they do to see theire enemies reioyce at theire griefe . But God neuer forsoke them that for his sake became poore , as it appeareth by thys : It chaunced one daye that euen as this Emperour Tiberius walked in the middest of his palace , he espied at hys feete a marble stone , whiche was in fourme like vnto a Crosse : and because he thought it an vnmete thing to haue the same spurned with soule feete , Crosse whiche was so victorious & triumphant a signe , he caused the stone to be taken vp ( not thinking any thing to be there vnder ) and immediatly after , they founde an other , wherein likewise was the forme of the Crosse , and thys being taken vp , they founde an other in like maner , and when that was pluck vp from the botome , there was founde a treasure , whiche conteaned the somme of twoo millions of duckettes , for the which , the good Emperour Tiberius gaue vnto almightie God moste highe thankes : & wheras before hee was liberal , nowe afterwardes hee was moche more bountiful . For all those treasures he vertuously distributed , amongst the poore and nedie people . Whose treasours they were , of them I fynde thus written : Thesauros Iustiniani secundi , & Narsetis Eunuchi , vtcunque congestos miraculose repperit , liberaliterque in pauperis dispensauit . Let therfore mightie princes & great Lordes see , read , & profit by thys example , & let them thinke them selues assured , that for geuinge almes to the poore , Vitis Caesarum fol. 63. they nede not feare to become poore : for in th ende , the vicious man can not call hymselfe riche , nor the vertuous man , can counte hymselfe poore .

The firste that euer did were Ermine in hys royall robes , was ( as I reade in an olde worke of Armory ) Laomedon , kynge of olde Troye . He thaught Priamus his sonne to weare the same , who being king in the tyme of the warre , & great siege of troye , was euer seene whan he came into the fielde , or whan hee entred into battaille , to weare the saide noble furre of Ermine in his cloke vpon hys armoure . Hector . Hys eldest sonne also Hector by name , was alwaies seene in place of his father , to haue vpon hym that mantle or cloke furred with Ermine , and in that hee killed manie noble men of the Greekes . Wherfore the Grecians euer saide it was kynge Priamus , Priamus . because hee onely in the fielde did first weare the same . Then the nobles of Troye ordeyned for Hector , an other apparell differringe moche from hys fathers , that the Greekes might plainely perceaue , that there was an other noble & stoute warriour in Troye besides kyng Priamus . They vsed not this apparell but in time of warre , Coates of Ermine . because they were as litle as coates , and beinge not longe or heauie , did nothinge hindre them in fightinge : therefore they were called coates of armes , and of nobilitie , for that they were very pleasant to the sighte , and to be seene farre of , beinge all whyte and blacke . And some writers affirme , that the firste armes were of Ermine , and that kynge Priamus was the firste that bare them : alledging further that after the destruction of Troye , there came a noble man of the stocke of kynge Priamus into Britaine , Armes of Britaine . and there did inhabite : and therefore the duke of Britayne beareth Ermine , because ( saye they ) hee commeth of that stocke that firste inhabited that countrey , and was the firste Lorde thereof . And so I gather , that the firste bearinge of Ermine in coate armoure , was inuented at the siege of Troy , although the ordering therof was not in so goodly a maner then , as is now in these dayes .

The Heumettes borne in the armes before des●ried , Heumettes . do admonishe the bearer . Memorare nouissima . They apperteane to Daubrigecourte of Stratfelde Say .

Why so many Lions are borne in Escocheons , Munsterus declareth in these woordes . Principibus enim Belgarum parantibus nouum expeditionem in Syriam , assumpserunt variorum colorum Leones , relictis veteribus insignibus . Of the bearinge of Lions in sondrie wise , I haue spoken sufficiently in the beginning of this booke .

Hee beareth azure , two barres embatiled , contrebatiled d'Ermine , by the name of Burnebye . Burnebye .

1 Sable .ij. barres embatiled d'Ermine . 2 Ermines .ij. barres embatiled contrebatiled d'or . 3 Gules .ij. Barres embatiled d'argent .

This token borne in the said ensigne , may also be diuersly named , wherefore I reade that an Herault , shall beare no blame , thoughe hee see a thing in armes , and can not well declare what it shoulde bee : beinge perhaps suche a thinge as is out of vse , & not often seene or knowne , as an instrument , or other thing frequented in a straunge lande , or a toole of an handye crafts man , ( as this next before descried is ) or some strange tree , leafe , hearbe , flower , and suche other : if hee faile to name the same right , it is no errour , so he fayle not of the colours and nombre thereof , according to the rules of armorye . For by reason ( sayeth myne aucthor ) there is noe man maye knowe all things , since so diuersly they be called , and in sundry wise described or figured .

Index Maestitiae est pullus color , vtimur omnes , Hoc habitu tumulis cum damus inferias , At sinceri animi , et mentis stola candida pura : Hinc sindon sacris , linea grata viris .

Hee bearethe Or , on a bende Gules , three Mollets de Argent .

These bendes are to be seene charged in sundrye wise , as for example .

1 Argent on a Bende gules , three Buckes heads cabazed de Or , borne by the name of Beche .

2 Argent on a Bende Azure , three Mollets de Or , persed , by the name of Morby .

3 Gules on a Bende de Argent , three Trefoiles slipped Uert , borne by the name of Haruye .

4 Argent on a Bende Gules , three Escaloppes de Or , by the name of A●●orell .

5 Argent , on a Bende Gules , three Garbes de Orge , de Or , borne by the name of Barley .

I finde also the saide coate thus varied , from that which is before displayde .

1 hath three Losenges Sables voided , on a Bende de Argent , in a fielde Gules .

2 Beareth Sable , on a Bende de Or , three Losenges of the first voided .

3 His fielde is de Azure , on a Bende Argent , three Losenges Uerte , voyded of the seconde . Heare I needed not to haue sayde voyded of the seconde which is Argent , for whensoeuer ye shall see eyther Losenge , Mascle , or other thynge voyded of the fielde , Fesse , bende &c. whereon theye stande , it is sufficient to saye voyded onelye , as the variation of the firste and seconde examples nexte before put forthe , dothe manifest vnto you , if ye note well the blazon of bothe the same .

I reade the coloure of the Storke to bee all whyte , sauing the tops of his winges : hys bill and legges be redde . It is written of them that they haue no tongues , theye slea all serpentes , in theire age theye bee fedde of theire yong birdes . The Image of them borne in coate armoure , is the token of Iustice . Of this birde came a Greeke worde for a prouerbe , Antepelargein , whiche signifyeth to bee lyke a Storke , which prouerbe is to exhorte men to bee kynde to theire parentes , or to theire masters , which teach or bryng them vp , requiting the benefite which theye receyued of them .

What is signifyed by castles and towers borne in Armes , I haue sufficyently declared before .

Whan ye see anye floure borne in coate armoure , ye may indifferently , and without breache of anye rule , blaze the same by the propre coloure that hee is of , as the Rose , to call it a whyte Rose , whan ye wolde terme it d'argent : and a redde Rose , when ye see it of Gules &c. The Barbes of thys floure haue no vsual woordes in blazon , for that they abide alwaies of theire proper coloure , which is greene : & enuiron the leaues of the floure , as it were gardinge them from falling .

The saide Saltier being of the furre called Uerrey , is alwaies found to be d'azure , and argent , or els d'argent & azure . For ( as ma●ster Gerard Leighe saieth in hys accidence of Armorie , ) where the matter is doubtefull , there the mettall hath of right● the preheminence . And I finde a Saltier varrey d'argent & azure , in a fielde gules , borne by the name of Willington . Willington .

I finde thys coate blazed otherwise , as thus .

Hee beareth Sable and Ermine partie per Fesse , & contrecolored in 6. quarters , thre Scallops argent in the firste .

Where he saith ( in the firste ) hee meaneth that the Escalloppes stande in Sable , which is first named in the blazon : and the same I do commende , for that he which vsed hys blazon was an Heraulte , and wel learned in theire mysteries .

These coates thus parted ( as aforesaide ) are most commendably borne , whan they are charged , but with one token , as in triangle and not with two , which to moche augmenteth the Blazon , the same abidinge in so manye quarters .

These also whiche folowe are of the like bearinge in order and commixtion , with two of the honorable ordinaries .

1 Argent , fretie , gules , a cheife d'azure , borne by the name of Curteyn .

2 Sable , fretie d'or , a chiefe d'ermine .

3 Uerte , fretie d'Ermine , a chiefe d'argent .

4 Or. fretie d'azure a chiefe d'ermines .

5 Gules , fretie d'argent , a cheife d'or .

I here vse in the blazon of these coates ( Fretie ) because they be of more pieces then viij . accordinge to the rule of master Gerard Leighe in hys Accidence of armorie , wher he treateth of coates commixte with two of the honorable ordinaries .

Hee beareth gules , a Bende engrailed d'or . Thys was the coate armoure of a noble knight named Sir William Marshall . And as these bendes are seene often thus engrailed , so are they founde moste vsually plaine , in thys wise .

1 Or , a bende sable , borne by the name of Bonauile . 2 Argent , a Bende verte , by the name of Kendal . 3 Sable , a Bende d'argent , by the name of Antingham . 4 Argent , a bende sable , by the name of Malley . 5 Or , a Bende dazure , by the name of Carthorpe .

What a Cheuron is , & also a Cressant , I haue therof sufficiently before made mention , yet the saide ensigne beynge one of the most worthie particions , take these also to be of the same bearing , whiche folowe .

1 Gules , a cheuron , betweene 3. cressantes d'or . 2 Argent , a cheuron betweene three cressantes d'azure . 3 Uert , a cheuron betwene thre cressants d'argent . 4 Ermine , a cheuron betwene 3. cressants d'ermines . 5 Azure , a cheuron betwene three cressantes d'Ermine . 6 Or , a cheuron betwene 3. cressants vert .

The attire of thys Buckes heade , differeth proprely for challenge .

Thys weapon before displaid , is called Securis bellica , and the bearer Securige● , which hath bene , and is an office of hyghe credit , especial aboute Princes , & martial affaires . It doth demonstrate aucthoritie , to committe persons offending the lawes , to the execution of death , for the suertie of the prince , & quietnes of the common weale .

This is the ensigne of master William Fleetewood Esquier , Fleetewood . Recorder of the noble citie of London .

Also Marton beareth argent ij . Barres Gules .

The sayde coate is bone by the name of Wynter . Wynter .

Also I finde Argent and Sable Checkey , a Fesse Gules , borne by the name of Akelōd A kelonde .

These perteined to master Frauncis Furbisher of Don caster in the county of York , Furbisher a right worshipful Esquyer , and iust Iusticer : also when hee liued , hee was one of the Queenes Maiesties 〈◊〉 rable counsell established in the 〈◊〉 partes : a 〈◊〉 whiche loued righteousnes and 〈…〉 countrey doth worthely reporte of 〈…〉 the 〈…〉 sent daies .

Thys deuise is straunge , & moche to be merua●led at , considering that the token borne therein , hath hys head adourned Diadematè modo Romanorum Pontificum . It mighte therefore bee applied to bee th'engsine of some Romishe bishoppe , fraudulently aspiring thereunto , liuyng moste lasciuiously , and therefore deposed worthely . That excellent clerke Bocatius , an Italian borne , in his treatise which he writeth of the fall of Princes , maketh mention of a woman that was pope , and what befell of her , and how she was put downe . The whiche hystorie I wil here set forth as it is translated , or rather metrized out of Latine into our English tongue , by Iohn Lidgate , wher he writeth , that after the miserable ende of many notable prouinces .

Came a creature Like a Bishoppe rounded & shorne , And as a priest she had a brode tonsure , Her apparaile outwarde & vesture , Being a woman , wherof Bochas toke good hede Like a Prelate shape was her wede . She was the same that of yore agon , Vnworthely satt in Peters place , And was afterwarde called pope Iohn A berdeles prelate , no heare seene on her face , Of her birth named was the place , Magunce a citie not standinge in Itaile , But on the Rhine , full famous of vitaile . In her youth & in her tender age , Forsooke her kinne , & in especial , Caste she wolde for her aduantage , Gyue her to cunninge , bodie , harte , & all , And in the sciences called liberall , In all seuen by famous excellence , By great studie she had experience . Her name couth in manie lande , To shewe her cunninge firste when she began Serching prouinces came into Englande , No wighte supposing but that she was a man Came to Rome , her storie tell can , Taughte Grammer , Sophisterie , and Logick , Red in schooles openly Rhethorick . In the time of Emperour Lotharie , After the death as made is mencion From mine aucthour , if I shall not varie , That the pope which called was Leon , The saide woman by election , Istalled was no wighte supposing than By no token , but that she was a man . The boke of sortes after that anon , Of auenture turned vp so downe She was named & called Pope Ihon ▪ Of whose natural disposition , F●ll by processe into temptacion , Quicke with child , the houre came on her than , was deliuered at Sainct Ihon Lateran . After put downe for her great outrage , I will on her spende no more labor , But passe ouer all the surplusage . Of her liuing , and of her great errour .

Of this monstre , it needeth not to shewe any further significacion , the matter whereupon it dependeth , beynge knowne to all that be christians , and whiche abhorre the tiranny of that Romishe Sea . But note heare , touchinge the saide tripled Crowne , wherewith the Goates head is ensigned , I reade , that the kinge and people of that famous citie in Indie the more , called Calechut , woorship the deuill in a wodderfull and horrible forme , moste lothsome to be recited , and hauing a Diademe on his hed , as the popishe prelates vsethe , and that whiche is more , Ternis insignitur cornibus . And this deuill hathe also hys priestes called Bramini , whiche do make cleane and take awaye the spottes of his bodie with Rose water and such odiriferous licour , and perfume him kneelynge ) varijs odoramentis , yea with euery thing that sauoreth well : and many moe other deuilishe ceremonies , whereof yea may read in the Cosinography of Munstre , lib. ●●de terris Asiae maioris .

Nowe to conclude , of all the other signes , the whiche are to bee founde or seene in armes , as of beastes , foules , fishes , serpentes , trees , flowers , leaues , and other maruelous tokens quicke and deade , I can not declare here , there be so many of them , but ye shall knowe generally , that for all the armes the whiche lightly anye man hathe seene in his daies , yee haue rules and examples in this woorke , sufficient as I beleue to describe and blaze any of them . Therefore take heede to the instructions aforesaide , if so be they be not a generall doctrine , yet shall they profit you in this arte greatly : and perfect you much in the prices and tokens of armorie .

A Rule or table declaring how coats of armes may be augmented , multiplied , deuided and parted .

This endeth the second boke entituled the armorie of Honour .
The thirde boke entituled of Cotes & Crestes .

And meruayle not of the Laurell garlande , beyng a remedye agaynst poyson , lyghtening , &c. In warre also borne , it is a token of peace and quietnes . Perpetuo viret , Sacraeste Apollini .

The hande here is figured , holding a penne ful of yncke . But the hande of Valens th' emperour , Gregorius Nazianzenus . at what tyme hee had written many letters about the exile or banishment of S. Basill , and yet could not finish the same : The penne it selfe yelded thre tymes no yncke , notwithstanding hee woulde not refrayne from hys wicked ordynance and decree , or from subscribing to the same , before that a great quakyng and tremblyng dyd apprehende hys hande , wherewith beyng hastely taken , and stricken with great dreade , hee than immediatlye rent in pieces with hys owne hande , whatsoeuer before hee had begonne to write . Therefore , Contra diuinam potestatem , nihil potest humaena .

The Egles heade & winges within a crowne on the Apothegme apparante , maye congruently stande for a Creaste to the sayd cote Armoure , as the learned can quickelye iudge thereof , Christ was called Aquila , ( propterque post resurrectionem ad astrae remouit .

Thys Gryphon , is vppon a mountayne in Bactria , & there kepeth gold , and other things ( as hee sayeth ) vnknowne .

Thys Sterre with the sonne beames , conteaneth in it a mysterye of the incarnacion of our sauiour Iesus Christ , as is red in a prose of the church .

Sicut sydus radium , profert virgo filium , pari forma ▪ Neque sydus radio , neque mater filio fit corrupta .

The whiche , is thus metrized .

As the sterre sheweth forth the Sunne beame , So was a chylde borne of a virgin cleane : Neyther with the sonne beame is viciate the sterre , Nor yet by the bearing of a sonne , the mother .
Dulcia defleta modulatur carmina lingua . Cantator Cygnus funeris ipse sui . The Swanne doth tune , with mourning breath , Most plesaunt metres , before hys death .

He is a gentle and quyet birde , Hys mortall enemye is th' egle , cui tamen fortissimè resistit : and therefore hee deserueth suche iuste rewardes , wherewith hys heade is here adorned . agreable also vnto hys nature . They are consecrate to Apollo , ob praesagium finis , because hee diuineth , or coniectureth whan hee shall dye .

Deuises heroiques , of the twelue labours , perfourmed by Hercules .

Thys is a regal Lyon , and a myghtye , for he occupyeth the fielde alone : and therefore hee worthely deserueth the name .

The firste of the twelue labors whiche Hercules , sonne of Osiris , and king of Egypt , called Hercules Libyus performed , was ( as Diodorus writeth ) the slayng of a Lyon in the wodde Nemea , that farre excelled all other Lyons in greatnes , whiche mought not be slayne with mettal or stone . Wherfore he was constreyned to kyll hym with hys handes .

Hercules hys thirde laboure ( taken for the common profite of mankynde ( was the taking of the great Bore of Erimanthus , which wasted the countrey of Arcadia , & all people dradde hym : but finallye Hercules toke him on liue , and bearing him on his shoulders , brought hym to kyng Euristeus .

The fowerth labour , which Hercules ( of hys incomparable strength ) performed , was the Battle , whiche hee had alone with a great nombre of those men called Centauri , that were of great strength and swifte as horses . Centauris , id est hominibus aquo mixtis species vocabulum dedit : quos quidam fuisse aequites Thessalorum dicunt . sed pro eoque discurrentes in bello , velut vnum corpus aquorum & hominum viderentur : inde Centauros fictos asseruerunt . Isodor . lib. 11. cap. 3. Etymol .

Harte . The Harte is at continuall debate with the Serpente , in so much , that he pursueth and seekethe for hym at hys hole , where he lyeth , and with the breathe of his nostrilles compelleth him to come out , and after he hathe of longe tyme foughte with him , he eatethe him . Therfore the smel of the Hartes horne burnt , driueth vtterly away the Serpentes . They neuer feale the Feuer , but rather are remedied thereof by the eatinge of the Serpente . It is saide , that Hartes fleashe eaten in the morninge , augmenteth mans life . If they be gelded , theire hornes neither fall of , nor growe . They haue no gall : and in Africa there is none of them .

He is a woorthye birde to be borne in Cote armoure . Licet Anser strepere inter olores .

Pythagoras ( as saith Boetius ) was the first inuentour of Musicke amonge the Grecians , whiche he founde out by the sounde of Hammers , whereof he wrote a Booke , whiche Boetius and Apuleius translated into Latin . I cannot , neither yet dare speake any thinge in commendation of the principal tokens borne in this Cote armour , Organ Pipes . whiche are the Organ Pipes , an instrument of Musicke . But what saie I , Musicke ? One of the seuen Liberall Sciences ? It is almost bannished this Realme . If it were not , the Queenes Maiestie did fauour that excellente Science , Singinge men , and Choristers might goe a begging , together with their Maister the player on the Organes . Yet this Cote Armour dependeth not all vpon Musicke , Musike . for peraduenture good counsell , whiche is a sweete thinge , and delighteth muche him whiche will receiue the same , more then the noyse of any Instrumente , ought to haue his merite , and commendation aboue all tunes , and ditties . And euen so it oughte to haue : and therefore suche a Cote Armoure oughte rather to be assigned to a faithefull Counsellour , then to an vntuneable Musition . Hammer . The Hammer is an Instrumente well knowne , and to be occupied of men of diuerse Sciences , but especially of the Smythe , or Ferrier . And it is called in Latin ( as Isidore saithe ) Malleus : quia dum quid calet , & molle est , cedit & producit . The Fasce of Palme , Palme . of righte oughte to haue his Bonde of Golde , and to stande within a Crowne , because that it is alwayes greene . And ( as witnesseth Plutarchus ) of that nature and propertie , that there can no weighte , nor burden oppresse it , but that it will rise vnder it , and stande vp as it shoulde doo . Propterea in certaminibus Palmam signum esse placuit victoriae : quoniam ingenium eiusmodi ligni , est vt vrgentibus , prementibusque non cedat .

I haue here caused to be figured vpon the said Cote armour , a Swalowe , of colour , as ye maie see , on a wreathe , Or , and Uerte . Aristotle saithe , that there be in the Ile Samo , white Swalowes , Quibus excaecatis , lumen iterum restituitur . Cecina Volaterranus comprehensus hirundines , nuntias belli mittebat amicis , in nidum pristinum redire solitas . They will not enter into the Citie of Thebes , because that Citie hathe bene so often taken , Sw●l●we . and ransacked . They are not in daunger to the Rauen of other byrdes , Nec vnquam praeda est . Therefore the Scrowe whiche shee beareth in her beake , manifestly declareth the same , Nulli praeda , that shee is praye to none . If by mans handes they be caught , they die , because they cannot be broughte to feede on any thinge , but that whiche them selues can catche flyinge in the ayre . Excaecatis Pullorum oculis , herba Chelidonia visum restituunt .

Cyrus , king of the Persians , what time he was readie to die , gaue in charge by his wil to make , or ordayne no other Sepulchre , or Tombe for hym , but only to be buried , and laide in the earth , whiche bringeth foorthe grasse , and floures : then the which no thing can be founde more excellente ( que he ) nor that can better become a gaue .

The Cofer in Latin is called Scrinium , and is a necessarye thynge made for the safe keepynge of Iewelles , or Ornamentes , as also of Bookes , Euidences , & Recordes of Iudgementes , or Enrolmentes . Plini writeth in his naturall Historie , that amonge all the spoyles , whiche Alexander the greate gotte of Darius kinge of Persia , he liked one moste especially , whiche was a Cofer of sweete Oyntementes , verye sumptuous , and of great valour , bothe in Golde , pretious Stones , and Pearles : and shewinge the same to diuerse his friendes and louers , he questioned with them , to what pourpose it woulde beste serue . After diuerse , and contrary reasons by them therein declared , & shewed , he saide , it would best serue for the safe keping of the bookes of Homere , as the most excellent worke for the declaration of mans mind , iudging no treasure more pretious then it . Ita visum est iuueni , qui se totum ad exemplar Achillis componebat . Cofers , or Cheastes are for many good purposes , and respectes to be borne in Armorie . For diligence , and vertuous studie is therby signified , & represented , and not negligence , or niggishe keepinge of worldely pelfre , and mucke .

The Bison here figured for a Creaste , on a Torce Argente , and Gules , is a Beaste , hauinge one horne standinge betweene his eares , and a verye longe mayne . In shape he is like to an Harte , but in somme Countries he is blacke . I reade , that there is greate stoare of them in Germanie . Yet this is not the Beaste , whiche somme take to be the same that is named Bubalus , a Bugle , or wilde Oxe . For the Poete Martialis maketh them vnlike , as this his Uerse folowinge doth declare : Illi cessit atrox Bubalus atque Bison . The fierce Bugle to him gaue place , And also the Bison in his race .

A shooe too large for thy foote , It cannot but thee ouerthrowe : If too little , it be agayne , It vexeth thee with greater payne .

A Shooe on a mannes foote , maye seeme good , and ●itte , yet where it greeueth , no man can tell , but the wearer . Paulus Aemylius , Sonne of Lucius Paulus , a Consull moste excellente amonge the Romaines , hearinge hys Wife Papyria ( the daughter also of a Consull ) commended for her beautie , Noblenesse of byrthe , modestie , and fruitefulnesse , shewed his shooe to them , that praised her , and asked howe they liked it . They answeared , it was a good shooe , and well made . Sed qua parte pedem meum distorquet , nescitis . But none of you dothe knowe ( saithe he ) where it wringeth me . Meaninge , that he alone felte it .

The Patten is a commendable token , and maie well beseeme a Cote armour . Who is the bearer hereof ( as none is ) in fighte on foote muste seeme to haue the maisterie . Here is also seene volante on a wreathe , Or , and Sable , an Agathal d'Argent , guttie , beaked , and legged , Uerte , gesante an Alimon , proper . The byrde called Agathallus , hathe natural enimitie with an other byrde , called Achanthylis : so that if the bloude of them be forcibly mixte together , they will after seuer eche from other . The Herbe aforesaide , which he beareth , is of that nature , that it will not suffer them that taste it , to be hungrye .

For the Creaste , here is to be seene a Bugles heade , rassed d'Argente , a braunche of Iuniper tree proper .

This tree accustomably groweth in sandye places . The leaues and braunches therof , is continually grene . It will not putrifie , or stynke . Non floret : It hathe no floures . It is of the same vertue , or strengthe , as is the Ceder tree . The Pithe thereof also is euery where more sounde , then is the Ceder : and the woode principallye harde , as Mantuane reporteth . It is greate beyonde measure , and huge in Spayne , and growethe beste on the hilles , hauinge prick●es in steade of leaues . It is crooked , and wrapped together . Beinge burnte , it is verye odoriferous , and purgeth the corrupted Ayre . It is a sweete busshe in this Realme , and woorthye greate commendation . In London it is beste solde . Who so beareth this in any signe , or token Armoriall , oughte to be a man of an excellente , and prompte witte , apte to do Iustice without corruption , parcialitie , or fauour . Wherfore this Apothegme is added : Aequitas lucet per se.

This building here described , is in our english tongue to be taken for a Steeple , which is a great buildinge made of stone or other mattier , and is fourmed broade , & foure square beneath , and vpwardes small and sharpe as it were the flame of fire , whiche endeth sharpe . This is a Cote of greate excellencie , and who so euer should beare the same , ought in al thinges to be found discrete , and constant , and to abide therein .

The Hybre which here is assigned for the Crest , is a kind of Haukes , whiche very seldome or neuer is seene to flye in the day time , but seeketh his praye in the night . Pugnat cum Aquila acriter , adeò , vt ambae mutuo assultu implexae , quandoque deferantur in terram .

On a Torce Argent and Uert , here is ensigned twoo Armes , sleues , and ruffes Ermyne , set within a Crowne d'Or , holding in the handes proper , two Serpentes , Azure .

I reade , that Iphiclus , sonne of Alcmena , borne with Hercules at one byrth . But Hercules was gotten by Iupiter , and Iphiclus by Amphitrio . And when twoo Serpentes came to the Cradle of Iphiclus , & slue him , after when they came to Hercules , he tooke in either of his handes one , and slue them . Touching that the Torce is of white , and greene , Darius , the king of Persia , at what time he arayed battaile againste the Greate Alexander , did weare a Roule of the same colours aboute the Diademe vpon his heade , called by the Persians , Cydaris .

Our Sauiour Iesus , ( as the Scriptures doo witnesse ) was borne in the Cittie of Dauid , called Bethelem , distante from Ierusalem sixe myles , and was firste called Euphrata , and signifieth in the Hebrewe tongue , the House of Breade . Wherefore the Prophete saithe in his Psalme , Ecce audiuimus eam in Euphrata , &c. Loe , we haue hearde of the same at Enphrata , and founde it in the Woode . The further interpretation hereof , I leaue to Diuines .

The Ramme here diuised for the Crest , is quarterly parted S. and Ermyne , armed , & vnguled d'Or . He is a noble beaste , and best knowne in this Realme . Laberius the Poete calleth them , Reciprocornes , for the turning backeward , and eftsoones forwarde of their hornes . They are also called Lanicules , because they haue their skynne couered with woll . Some reporte , & affirme , that of Rammes hornes buried , or hidde in the grounde , is broughte forthe an Herbe , called Asparagus , in Englishe , Sperage .

Christe was called Aries , a Ramme , Propter Principatum , for his Soueraignetie , and Dominion .

Ringe . The Ringe is the most principall ornamente to beautifie the hand of man or woman . But in wearing of them oftentimes is found detestable prid , offence , and displeasure bothe to God , and Man . Are not oftentimes gemmes therein enclosed , whiche stir & prouoke the wearer thereof to filthye lust , & abominable vices , are not oftener in place of stones ( which are called pretious ) known to be enclosed familiar diuels , seruing to worke nothing that is good and godly , but contrary altogether bothe to grace & godlinesse . God graunte , that no Christian man be founde to weare suche Ringes . I reade in a prophane history , that Gyges , seruant to Caudales , kinge of Lydea , had a Ringe of suche vertue , that when the broder part therof was turned to the palme of his hande , he was seene of no man , but he might see all thinges : and when he turned the Ringe of the contrary part , he was him selfe seene openly . By the meane wherof he slue Caudales , and committed adultrie with his wife : and so of a lasie shepheard , he was made a cursed kinge .

Osprey . The byrde called an Osprey , is of suche whitenesse on his breaste , and winges , that when he houereth ouer any runnynge water , or fishe Poole , all the fishe therein turneth vp theire bellies , and so he taketh his praye . Hee is taken to be a kynde of Eagles that haunteth aboute the Sea .

The Bergander is a byrde of the kinde of Geese , somewhat longer , and bigger then a Ducke , liuing in the water , breeding sometime in Conye holes , sometime in hollowe places in Rockes .

This byrd is here figured , bearing the herbe Hiacinthe , with the floure proper . It hathe leaues like a Porret , an hande breadth in height , lesse then a maydes little finger , grene of colour , the toppe lying down ful of purple floures , and the roote rounde . The floure springeth out in spring time , with the Uiolet , and before the Rose . It is commonly called here in Englande , Crowetoes .

The Creste here seene , is an Erodye Golde , Guttie , set on a Torce , Siluer & Gules . Calepine saithe , that the byrd Erodius , is the greatest fowle that flyeth , & ouercommeth and deuoureth the Eagle . Other write , that in time of treadinge , he sweateth bloude .

The fielde of thys Cote Armoure is verte , three cuppes couered in Pale betwene ij . flasques d' Or , charged with two clustres of grappes , propre . And to the Creste vppon the helme , a kynges heade , with a Diademe crowned , set on a Chapeau Sable , turned vp Ermyne , manteled verte , dobled Argente , cotized of two Equicerues propre , thys Apothegme added , sato prudentia maior .

The torne corpse of Pentheus , and the cause of hys death sufficiently displayeth all the sayde ensignes : who as the fables do reporte , was kynge of the Thebanes , whose father was called Echion , and hys mother Agaue . Thys Pentheus despised the Sacrifice of Bacchus , the god of wyne , or the droncken god , wherefore hys owne mother Agaue cut of hys heade : and hys sisters with the other companye of women , which than did celebrate the feaste and sacrifice of the sayde Bacchus , and tore hys bodye all to pieces .

Equicerne . The Equicerne , as I reade , is a beaste in the Oriente , forma cerui & aequi compositum , in forme or shape of an harte , and an horse ioyned together , hauing hornes , & a longe mayne to the shoulders , & a bearde vnder hys chynne like vnto the goate , and fete rounde clouen like an harte , & is as greate as an harte .

Thys Beaste is founde in Indie , about great ryuers . He hath a tayle lyke an Olyphante , in colour blacke , or baye .

For the Creste it is thus assigned , vpon the helme on a wreathe d'Or and Sable , a Cardnell volante , beaked and legged Argente , all the reste proper , manteled verte , dobled Argente .

Thys lyttle byrde is here figured , gesante a seade of the thistle , for that she lyueth by the seades of them , vnde illi inditum nomen . Carduel●s . She hath a redde heade , yealowe winges , distincte with white and blacke . Cardnales imperata faciunt , autore Plinio , nec voce tantum , sed pedibus , & ore pro manibus . They are taught to do anye thing , not onely with the voice , but also with the fete and byll , in steade of handes . Thys Poesie is also added .

Tendit in ardua virtus .

The Tarandule is a beaste , commonly called a Buffe , which is like an Oxe , but that he hath a bearde like a Goate .

Medusa , a Ladie of whom fables do reporte , that by Minerua , her heares were tourned into Adders , and they whiche beheld her , were tourned into stones , Perseus . whom Perseus , that noble knyght , afterwarde slewe .

Almighty God , being greatly displeased with the pryde of Nabuchodonozor , for that hee woulde haue his image honored for god , sodeinly transformed him into an horrible monstre , hauing the heade of an Oxe , the feete of a Beare , and the tayle of a Lyon , who dyd eate hey as a Beaste . And after he had donne penaunce in that forme , God beyng moued with mercie , and accepting for hym the continual prayers of Daniel the prophete , restored hym to hys pristinate forme , who afterwarde lyued wel , and commaunded that the very god of heauen should bee onely honored .

Whoso should beare these ensignes , let hym onely feare , serue , obey , and giue al prayse , honor and glory to God for euer and euer .

Thys Byrde deuised for the creaste , hath a long bill and redde legges , whiche drincketh as though it dyd byte the water . She dippeth all her meate in the water also , quem pede ad rostrum veluti manu affert , that is , whiche she conueyeth to her bill , as with an hande . She is moste estemed in Concagena , a parte of Syria , and is taken of some to bee the Pellycane ▪ The Icon , or forme of the same birde , I haue caused thus to bee figured , portant a water Rose propre .

This Eagle also in the breste , is charged with a mans harte propre , wherein ys conteyned a deuyne misterye .

B. Beareth on a torce , Perle and Rubye , a Meleuete , Saturne , beaked and membred Veneris .

Thys Byrde is otherwise called Onocrotalus , and is like to a Swanne , whiche putting hys heade into the water brayeth like an Asse . Whatsoeuer hee eateth , hee gathereth it together in hys iawes , & holdeth it there longe before hee swaloweth it downe : and that hee doth especially in fliyng from the water .

I reade that Darius kyng of Persia , what tyme he went into Scythia , ●yght hys pauilions , at the heade of a Ryuer in Thracia called Thearus , where hee abode thre dayes : and deliting at the most pleasaunts water of the Ryuer , hee sett in the same place a Pillor grauen , with Lettres of Greke , declaryng hys beyng there , with commendation of the water . Here are to be seene on this Pyllor three especiall Greke Letters , Theta , Tau , and Ypsilon , euery one conteyning in it selfe a misterie , to Grecians well knowen .

Thys Byrde is called in latyn Platalea , she followeth water foules , that do take fishes , and doth pecke them so on the heade , that they let go theire praye , whiche she taketh , and liueth therewith .

Whan it was layde vnto Lysander kyng of Lacedemonia for a reproche , that he gott more by subteltye , than by prowes : hee smylinge sayde . vbi quòd vellet non assequeretur Leonis exunium , ibi vulpinum ap plicandum esse . The meaninge whereof is thys , that where the Lyons skynne doth not a●ayle , a man must tye or sowe a Fox skynne vnto it .

Quo non perueninet Leonina pellis , vulpinam assuendam esse : quod sic lucidius dixeris , vbi virtus non satis potest , adhibenda est astutia .

Thys Byrde is moste commonly seene in the Alpes , and hath feete roughe , as it were with the heare of an hare , wherof shee taketh her name , and is called Lagopus . Nam Lagos Grecè dicitur lepus Latinè , the residue of her bodie is all whit , and of the bygnes of a Doue : It neuer eateth but in place where it was bredde , and neuer will bee made tame . Pli. Ye may call it proprely , an hare birde .

Thys is a Fishe , in the riuer of Ganges , and in Latyn is called Vermis , & is in length . lx. cubites , beynge blew in coloure , which hath such strength also , that whan Oliphantes come vnto the water to drinke , heewill take one of them by the nose , and plucke hym into hym .

Little Zacheus clymed vp into suche a tree , Paraph●as . Eral . in Luc. cap. 19. to see oure Sauioure Iesus Christe in the waye , there as he was to passe by . Th' euangeliste called it a wylde figge tree , but ryghtely as it is ther named a Sycamore , ( because it bringeth forthe sigges of the owne ryghte kynd , that other figge trees bee of , & by reason thereof , it is also called a figge of Egipte , & yet in leafe it ressembleth the Mulberie tree ) frequens est apud Rhodium locis frumentarijs . It hathe aboundance of mylke , whose frute commeth not out , at the toppes of the boughes , as figges do , sed ex ramis ipsis .i. out of the same boughes , and is swete like a wilde figge . Grana eius sunt minora granis ficum . Nec maturescunt nisi radantur instrumento ferreo .

Thys Byrde in Latyne , is called Merula . Isidore sayeth , that of auncient and olde tyme she was called Medula , eo quòd moduletur , because she singeth , others , ( sayeth he ) call her Merula , quia sola volat , because she flyeth alone , and lyueth as it were sole , shee hath a yealowe beake , and is alwayes seene flye alone , and feadeth so lykewise , from a blacke coloure , she groweth to bee redde , she singeth pleasauntly in the Sommer , in wynter she stamereth , ci●ca Solsticium muta . Thys Byrde ( sayeth Isidore ) whereas in all places shee is blacke , yet in Achaya she ys white .

I reade that Pithyus a Lydian , was so ryche , and had suche aboundance of Golde , that hee receaued Zerxes king of Persia , with all hys whole Armye , which was innumerable , and that with great magnificence : and that hee gaue to Darius , father to Zerxes , a Playne tree of Golde , and a vyne of the same mettall .

Thys herbe is of suche vertue , that it will not suffer them that taste of it to be hongrye , Plinye calleth the sayde byrde Merops , which by an other name is called Apiastra , because hee doth eate bees . Thys birde hath a large bill , and redde legges , and whose nature it is to kepe theire parentes , whiche neuer come abroade , and to norishe them , as them selfe were norished beyng yong .

The Sickle hath in it a spiritual mysterye , the whyche ys most godly expounded by that famous clearke Erasmus of Roterodame , in hys paraphrase vpon the fowerth chapiter of S. Markes Gospel . Therefore , who so desireth th' exposicion therof , let hym resorte to that place .

Rauens are enemyes to Bulles , whom when they espie alone , they doe strongly assayle , and of all the bodye , they desire moste hys eyes . They are enemies also to the Cameleon , and kyll hym . Enemye to them , is a lyttle Byrde , called Easalon , which breaketh theire egges . The Rauen is a noble token , to bee borne in cote Armoure , or creste .

Thys little byrde before spoken of , is of the kynde of haukes , quae apparet omni tempore . She is otherwise called Butco , the least of the kynde of Bussardes , but more white , & industrious after her praye . It is written that thyse kynde of Hauke , called the Bussarde , hath three stones . Her Byrdes bee destroyed by the Foxe , and likewyse , she kylleth the Foxes whelpes , yf she maye come by them .

The Tarandre is a beaste in bodie like to a great Oxe , hauing an heade like to an harte , and hornes full of braunches , the heare roughe , and of the colour of a Beare .

The Pyne apple in Latyne , is called Strobylus . The sayde Escaloppe is charged sufficiently ynough , althoughe it hathe pleased some to charge greater tokens thereon , and the same hauing lyfe , wherewith I can not like , nor as yet ●an fynde , eyther aucthoritie , or reason for the same .

Thys Haucke is of a noble prise , to all Faukeners well knowne , & therefore ( for me ) they shall not onely describe the nature , but also gyue the commendacion therof . Yet in parte I wyll shewe , that rapit praedam non modo sedentem in sublimi , sed etiam volantem in aperto . Hee is called in Latyne , Accipiter hicrax .

Alexander the greate kyng of Macedonia , for that on the night seazon hee woulde not committe his armie to the aduenture of Fortune , as longe as he slept hymselfe , vsed this experience , when he laide him downe to take hys reste : A brasen pott was put vnder hys elbowe , and afterwarde hee put foorth hys arme out of the bedde : & held in his hand a siluer ball , that when dead slepe shoulde louse the strength of hys synewes , the ringing or sounde of the ball when it fell , might so breake hys slepe , & awake hym . Hoc quidem documentum Regem illum excellentissimum a Gruibus accepisse arbitratur , quae nocturnas excubias semper exercent : & ne a somno decipiantur , lapillum altero pede sustinent : quo lapso vel plaga in extensum pedem accepta , vel sono decident is calculi expergefiunt .

The sence hereof , is brefely declared in Latyne , as next aboue appeareth : Thys Apothegme added also . Plus vigila .

Plutarch . I reade that Scylurus Chaeronensis , a man borne in that parte of Grece now called Morea , had fower score sonnes , who whan hee died called them afore hym , and deliuered to euerie of them a shefe of arrowes , commaunding them to breake the shefes incontinente : whiche when they mought not do , he tooke out of the shefes one arrowe after an other , and brake them all lyghtely , declaring therby vnto hys sonnes , that yf they continued and agreed well together , they shulde bee puissante : and yf they varied , and were disseuered , they shuld be feble and shortely destroyed . A matter not vnlike hervnto may be brought forth , which is noted of Plinye , of the nature of the stones , called Cycladici , which as long as they are hole , swimme aboue the water , but beyng broken , they syncke and are drowned . Sit igitur hoc Symbolum sagittarum fascis , a patre commeati , simulque , memoratorum lapidum haec significatio : Coniuncta , firmaque faedera eò semper firmiora , durantiora , ac certiora , vbi prudentiam ducem , & consultricem adhibeas .

Thys is a noble kynde of hauke , hardye and puissante , well knowen to all Faukeners , wherefore I nede no further to describe hys nature , or sett forth hys commendacion . And other of thys kynde is called Gyrofalcum , a gyro & cir●uitu , quo in minores vtitur , vt eas agat in praedam .

Power ( as B●etius sayeth ) can not put awaye the bityng of carefulnes , nor auoide the prickynges of feare : affirminge that prynces woulde fayne lyue safely but they can not .

There was a kynge of Sisill named Dionisius , that was ouer sadde , hys familyer asked hym , why hee was not mery : Thereupon hee made a bancket , and caused his familier to sitt thereat , and a naked sworde hanging ouer his head by a smal horsse heare . The man seyng the sworde could not bee merye for feare , to whome Dionysius sayde , suche is my lyfe , euer in feare , yet thou thoughtest it happye : and suche is the lyfe of kynges , alwayes in feare of some euill chaunce , for in hyeste aucthoritie is moste ieopardie .

Thys Dionysius feared so moche Barbors , that hys daughters were taughte to shaue hym , and to clippe hys heare .

Referre thys Sworde aboue figured , ad vltionis diuinae gla dium , perpetuò supra infaelicium peccatorum ceruices , fragili , tenuissimoque filo impendentem .

Iudas , otherwise called Machabeus , in hys Actes was like a Lyon , and as a Lyons whelpe roring at hys praye . He foughte with Appolonius , a mygh tie Prynce in Syria , slue hym , and almoste hys whole hoste : hee tooke theire substance , and also Appolonius hys owne sworde wherewith hee fought all his lyfe long . Machab. lib. 1. cap. 3.

It is written of Diogenes the Philosopher , that hee dyed being bitten of a dogge . After whose death , hys scholers ( to declare whiche of them dyd beare greatest good wyll towardes hym ) contended who shulde haue hys bodye to burye it . That strife beinge appeased by the magistrates , they buryed hym honorably , & not onely made ouer hym a faire tombe , but also erected a Piller with a dogge standing thereupon , in perpetuall remembraunce of hys death . I haue caused thys dogge to bee formed like vnto a water Spanyell , halfe hearye , th other shorne . For I haue knowne men excellentlye learned , to loue suche Dogges , whiche wee proprely call in Latyne Sagaces canes , Spanyels or houndes .

Finis .

Imprynted at London in Fletestrete within Temple barre at the signe of the Hande and starre , by Rychard Cottyl . Anno 1572.

Cum priuilegio .

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