An epitome of Mr. John Speed's theatre of the empire of Great Britain And of his prospect of the most famous parts of the world. In this new edition are added, the despciptions of His Majesties dominions abroad, viz. New England, New York, 226 Carolina, Florida, 251 Virginia, Maryland, 212 Jamaica, 232 Barbados, 239 as also the empire of the great Mogol, with the rest of the East-Indies, 255 the empire of Russia, 266 with their respective descriptions. Speed, John, 1552?-1629. 1676 Approx. 1204 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 336 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-05 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A61047 Wing S4879 ESTC R221688 99832962 99832962 37437 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A61047) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 37437) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 2062:3) An epitome of Mr. John Speed's theatre of the empire of Great Britain And of his prospect of the most famous parts of the world. In this new edition are added, the despciptions of His Majesties dominions abroad, viz. New England, New York, 226 Carolina, Florida, 251 Virginia, Maryland, 212 Jamaica, 232 Barbados, 239 as also the empire of the great Mogol, with the rest of the East-Indies, 255 the empire of Russia, 266 with their respective descriptions. Speed, John, 1552?-1629. [376], 276 p., [2] leaves of plate : ill., maps. printed for Tho. Basset at the George in Fleet-street, and Ric. Chiswel at the Rose and Crown in St. Paul's Church-yard, London : 1676. Signatures: pi, A-Z 2A⁴, A-R, S⁴. Includes: A prospect of the most famous parts of the vvorld, with separate title page and register. "New England ... Barbados, 239" connected in twos by curly brackets. "The empire .. respective descriptions" connected by one curly bracket. Imperfect; some pages have faded print with some loss of text. Reproduction of the original in the British Library. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO. EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor. The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines. Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Atlases, British -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. Great Britain -- Maps -- Early works to 1800. America -- Maps, Pictorial -- Early works to 1800. America -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. 2002-11 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2003-01 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2003-02 Mona Logarbo Sampled and proofread 2003-02 Mona Logarbo Text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-04 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A DANE A NORMAN England Wales Scotland and Ireland Described 〈◊〉 and Abridged With y e Historie Relation of things worthy memory from a farr larger Voulume Done by Iohn Spied Anno Cum priuilegio 1676 AN EPITOME OF Mr. IOHN SPEED's THEATRE of the EMPIRE OF GREAT BRITAIN . And of His PROSPECT Of the Most Famous Parts of the WORLD . In this New Edition are added , The Descriptions of His Majesties Dominions abroad , viz. New England , 226 New York , Carolina , 251 Florida , Virginia , 212 Maryland , Iamaica , 232 Barbados , 239 AS ALSO The Empire of the Great Mogol , 255 with the rest of the East-Indies , The Empire of Russia , 266 With their respective Descriptions . London , Printed for Tho. Basset at the George in Fleet-street , and Ric. Chiswel at the Rose and Crown in St. Paul's Church-yard . 1676. England Scotland and Ireland map of England, Scotland, and Ireland A Catalogue of all the Shires , Citties , Bishoprickes , Market Townes , Castles , Parishes , Rivers , Bridges , Chases , Forrests , and Parkes , conteyned in every particuler shire of the Kingdom of England . Shires . Cities Bishopckes . Mark Townes Castles Parish 〈◊〉 Rivers Bridgs Chases Forrests . Parkes Kente 02 02 17 08 398 06 14 00 00 23 Sussex 01 01 18 01 312 02 10 00 04 33 Surrie 00 00 06 00 140 01 07 00 0¼ 17 Middlesex 02 02 03 00 073 01 03 01 00 04 Hant-shire 01 01 18 05 248 04 31 00 04 22 Dorcet shire 00 00 18 06 248 04 29 01 02 12 Wilt shire 01 01 21 01 304 05 31 01 09 29 Somerset shire 03 02 29 01 385 09 4● 00 02 18 Devon shire 01 01 40 03 394 23 106 00 00 23 Corrnuall 00 00 23 00 161 07 31 00 00 09 Essex 01 00 21 01 415 07 28 00 01 46 Hartford shire 00 00 18 00 120 01 24 00 00 23 Oxford-shire 01 01 10 00 208 03 26 00 04 09 Buckinghamsh . 00 00 11 00 185 02 14 00 00 15 Berck shire 00 00 11 01 140 03 07 00 0● 13 Glocester shire 01 01 20 01 280 12 22 01 02 19 Suffolk 00 00 28 01 464 02 32 00 00 27 Norfolk 01 01 26 00 625 03 15 00 00 00 Rutlande 00 00 02 00 047 00 01 00 00 04 Northampton-sh 01 01 11 02 326 05 24 00 03 23 Huntinton-shire 00 00 05 00 078 01 05 00 00 07 Bedford-shire 00 00 10 00 116 01 06 00 00 12 Cambridg-shire 00 01 06 00 163 01 07 00 00 05 Warwick shire 01 01 12 01 15● 07 21 01 00 16 Lecester shire 00 00 11 02 200 01 10 00 02 13 Stafford-shire 01 00 12 05 130 13 19 01 01 38 Worcester shire 01 01 07 03 152 05 17 01 02 16 Shrop shire 00 00 13 13 170 18 13 00 07 27 Hereford shire 01 01 08 07 176 13 11 01 02 08 Lincolne shire 01 01 26 02 630 09 15 00 00 13 Nottingham sh. 00 00 11 00 168 05 17 00 01 18 Darby shire 00 00 08 04 106 1● 2● 00 01 34 Cheshire 01 01 09 03 068 09 19 00 02 18 Yorke-shire 01 01 46 14 563 36 62 04 08 72 Lancasshire 00 00 08 06 036 33 24 00 01 30 Durham 01 01 05 04 062 11 20 00 00 21 Westmoreland 00 00 04 06 026 08 15 00 02 19 Cumberland 01 01 08 15 058 20 33 00 03 08 Northumbrland 00 00 11 ●2 040 21 16 00 01 08 Monmouth 00 00 06 07 14● 15 14 01 00 08 Glamorgan 00 01 07 ●2 151 16 06 00 00 05 Radnor 00 00 04 05 043 13 05 00 03 00 Brecknok 00 00 03 04 070 27 13 00 00 02 Cardigan 00 00 04 00 077 26 09 00 0● 00 Carmarthin 00 00 06 04 08● 20 16 00 0● 0● Pembrok 00 01 06 05 142 06 07 00 02 03 Montgomery 00 00 06 03 042 28 06 00 00 00 Merionidth 00 00 03 02 034 26 07 00 00 00 Denbigh 00 00 03 03 05● 24 06 00 00 06 Flint shire 00 01 03 04 024 04 0● 00 00 02 Anglesey 00 00 03 00 08● 08 02 00 00 00 Caernarvon 00 0● 05 03 073 17 06 00 00 00 * The totall Summe , of this Catalogue is                     5 ● Shires . 25 Cities 26 Bish 645 Market 156 Castles ●725 Pa. Ch 555 Rivers 956 Bridg 93 Chas. 62 For. 783 Parks The General of Great BRITAIN . CHAPTER I. THE State of every Kingdome well managed by prudent government , seems to me to represent a humane Body , guided by the soveraignty of the Reasonable Soul : the Countrey and Land it self representing the one , the Actions and State-Affairs the other . Sith therefore the excellencies of the whole are but imperfectly laid open , where either of these Parts is defective , our intendment is to take a view as well out of the outward Body and Lineaments of the now flourishing British Monarchy ( the Islands ) Kingdomes and Provinces thereof in actual possession , ( for with others , no less justly claimed in the continent , we meddle not ) which shall be the continent of our first or Chorographical Tome , containing the four first Books of this our Theatre : as also of its successive government and vital actions of State , which shall be our second or Historical Tome , containing the five last Books . And here first we will ( by example of the best Anatomists ) propose to view the whole Body and Monarchy entire ( as far as conveniently we could comprise it ) and after will dissect and lay open the particular Members , Veins , and Ioynts , ( I mean the Shires , Riv●●s , Cities , and Towns ) with such things as shall occur most worthy our regard , and most behoveful for our use . ( 2 ) The Isl●nd of Great Britain ( which with her adjoyning Isles is here first presented ) contain●th the Kingdomes of England and Scotland , and is of many accounted the greatest Island in the World , though Iustus Lypsius gives that praise to Cuba in America , as the Oriental Navigators do unto Sumatra ( taken for P●olomy's Tapro●aria ) or to Madagascar , the Island of S. Laurence , both which are near unto , or under the Equi●octial Line ; in which we will not contend : as pleasing our selves with her other praises greater than her Greatness : yet with this honour also , that it was ( without question ) the greatest Island of the Roman World , and for any thing yet certainly known , of all the rest . Concerning whose positure in respect of Heaven , Lucretius ( the first of the Latin Writers that names Britain ) seemeth to place it in the same Parallel with Pontus , where he saith : Nam quid Britannum coelum differre putamus , &c. What differs Britains Heaven from that of Nile ? Or Pontus welkin from Gades warmer Ile ? In which , by a certain cross comparison , he opposeth two likes against two unlikes , Britain and Pontus against Egypt and Gades . But to seek into profound Antiquity , rather than present practice , for matters in which Vse makes perfectness , were to affect the giving light by shadows , rather than by Sun-shine . ( 3 ) It is by experience found to lie included form the degree fifty , and thirty scruples of Latitude , and for Longitude extended from the 13. degree , and 20. minutes , unto the 22. and 50. minutes , according to the observation of Mercator . It hath Britain , Normandy , and other parts of France upon the South ; the Lower Germany , Denmark ▪ and Norway upon the East ; the Isles of Orkney and the Deucaledonian Sea , upon the North ; the Hebrides upon the West , and from it all other Islands and Ilets , which do scatteredly inviron it , and shelter themselves ( as it were ) under the shadow of Great Albion ( another name of this famous Island ) are also accounted Britannish , and are therefore here described all together . ( 4 ) Britain thus seated in the Ocean hath her praises , not only in the present sense , and use of her commodities , but also in those honourable Eulogies , which the learnedst of Antiquaries hath collected out of the noblest Authors , that he scarce seemeth to have left any gleanings : neither will we transplant them out of his flourishing Gardens , but as necessity compels , sith nothing can be further or otherwise better said . ( 5 ) That Britain therefore is the Seas High Admiral , is famously known : and the Fortunate Island ●upposed by some , as Robert of Amesbury doth shew : whose Air is more temperate ( saith Caesar ) then France ; whose s●yl bringeth 〈◊〉 Grain in abundance , ●aith Tacitus ; whose Seas produce orient Pearl , saith Suetonius ; whose Fields are the seat of a Summer Queen , saith Orpheus ; her wildest parts free from wild beasts , saith the ancient Panegyrick ; and her chief City worthily named Augusta , as saith Ammianus : So as we may truly say with the royal Psalmist , Our lines are fallen in pleasant places , yea , we have a fair inheritance . Which whatsoever by the goodness of God , and industry of man it is now , yet our English Poet hath truly described unto the first face thereof , thus ; The Land which warlike Britains now possess , And therein have their mighty Empires rais'd , In ancient times was savage Wilderness , Vnpeopled , unmanur'd , unprov'd ▪ unprais'd . ( 6 ) And albeit the Ocean doth at this present thrust it self between Dover and Callis , dividing them with a deep and vast entrenchment ; so that Britain thereby is of a supposed Penisle made an Island , yet divers have stifly held , that once it was joyned by an arm of land to the Continent of Gallia . To which opinion Spencer farther alluding , thus closeth his Stanza . Ne was it Island then ▪ ne was it paisde Amid the Ocean waves , ne was it sought Of Merchants far , for profits therein prasde , But was all desolate , and of some thought By Sea to have been from the Celtick Mainland brought . Which as a matter meerly conjectural ( because it is not plain that there were no Islands nor Hills bofore Noahs floud ) I leave at large : Virgil surely ( of all Poets the most learned ) when describing the Shield which Vulcan forged ( in Virgils brain ) for Aeneas , he calls the Morini ( people about Calis ) the outmost men , doth only mean that they were Westward , the furthest inhabitants upon the Continent , signifying that Bri●ain as being an Island , lay out of the World , but yet not out of the knowledge of men , for the Commodities thereof invited the famous Greek Colonies of Merchants , Which dwelt at Marsilia in France , to venture hither , as hath been well observed out of Strabo . ( 7 ) And as Iulius Caesar was the first Roman which ever gave an attempt to conquer it , so will we close its praises with a late Epigram , concerning the outward face of the Isle , and the motive of Caesars coming . Albionis vertex frondoso crine superbus . Arboreas frondes plurimus ales habet . Gramineam Montes & fundunt pascua pubem ; Et carpunt , circum pascua gramen oves : Sed Latii caruit potioribus Insula donis , Victori potior Gloria ni Latio . Albions high tops her woody locks far shew , With Quires of chanting Birds these Woods resounding , Her Downs and Meadows clad in verdant hew , Meadows and Downs with Flocks and Heards abounding , Latium had greater Wealth , yet Caesar thought , To British Glory , Latiums Wealth worth nought . ( 8 ) The division of Britain concerning the government and territories thereof , at such time as Caesar here arrived , doth not sufficiently appear . Caesar himself makes so sparing mention therein , that we have little cause to believe Florus , where he makes Livie say , that after Caesar had slain an huge multitude of Britaines , he subdued the residue of the Isle ; but rather with exq●isite Horace , that he did not at all touch them , as the word inactus doth in him purport . ( 9 ) Kings they were , and therefore that division which was here in Caesars time , was into Kingdoms : the old names of whole Nations , as also the knowledge of their several abodes , hidden under the rubbish of so many ages , have of late with infinite labours and exquisite judgment , been probably restored and abounded ; yet that no mans expectation and desire be too much frustrated , reason wills that we briefly set forth such divisions of the Land , as many repute not ancient only , but authentick . ( 10 ) Our seeming ancient Historians begin it at Brute , who to every of his three sons gave a part called presently after by their names ; as Loegria to Locrine his eldest son ; Cambria to Camber his second son ; and Albania to Albanist his third son : And doubtless , if there had been more Nations of fame in this Island , Brute should have had more sons fathered on him ; which conceit some ascribe to Monmouth's holding that before him it was never so divided . ( 11 ) Ptolomy naming Britain the Great and the Less , hath been by some mistaken , as so dividing this Island into two parts ; But his proportion and distance from the Aequator , compared with his Geographical description will evince , that he calleth this our Island Great Britain , and Ireland Britain the Less . ( 12 ) Howbeit some later do make indeed the South and more Champion to be called Great Britain , and the North more Mountainous , Britain the Less ; whose inhabitants anciently were distinguished into the Majatae , and Caledo●ii , and now by the Scots are into Heilandmen , and Lawlandmen . But that Northern clime being more piercing for the Roman constitutions , and less profitable or fruitful , they set their bounds not far from Edenburgh , and altogether neglected the other parts more Northward . ( 13 ) This nearer part of Britain they then divided into two parts ; for the more Southern tract , together with Wales , Dio termeth the Higher , and that more Northward the Lower , as by the seats of their Legions doth appear ; for the second Legion Augusta ( which kept at Caerleon in South Wales ) and the twentieth called Victrix , ( which remained at Chester ) he placeth in the higher Britain but the sixt Legion sirnamed also Victrix , resident at York , served ( as he writeth ) in the Lower Britain , which division , as seemeth , was made by Severus the Emperour , who having vanquished Albinus , General of the Britains , and reduced their State under his obedience , divided the government thereof into two provinces , and placed two Prefects over the same . ( 14 ) After this again the Romans did apportion Britain into three parts , whose limits our great Antiquary assigneth by the ancient Archiepiscopal Seats , grounding his conjecture on the saying of Pope Lucius , who affirmeth that the Ecclesiastical Iurisdictions of the Christians , accorded with the precincts of the Roman Magistrates , and that their Archb●shops had their Sees in those Cities wherein their Presidents abode : so that the ancient Seats of the three Archb●shops here , being London in the East , C●erleon in the West , and York in the North ; Londons Diocess ( as seemeth ) made Britain prima , Caerleon Britain secunda ; and York , Maxima Caesari●nsis . ( 15 ) But in the next age , when the power of their Presidents began to grow over great , they again divided Britain into five parts , adding to the three former Valentia and ●lavia Caesariensis : the first of which two seemeth to have been the Northerly part of Maxima Caesariensis , recovered from the Picts and Scots by Theodo●lus the General under Valence the Emperour , and in honour of him named Vale●tia : and Flavia may be conjectured to receive the name from Flavius the Emperour ( son of The●d●sius ) for that we read not of the name Britain ●lavia , before his time . ( 16 ) So these five partitions had their limits assigned after this manner : Britaine prima contained those coasts that lay betwixt Thamesis , the Severne , and the British Sea : Britaine Secunda extended from Severne unto the Irish Seas , containing the Countrey that we now call Wales : Flavia Caesariensis , was that which lay betwixt the Rivers Humber and Tyne : and Valentia from the said River , and Picts wall reached unto the Rampire near Edenburgh in Scotland , the farthest part that the Romans possessed when this division was in use . For the several people inhabiting all those parts , with their ancient Names and Borders ( whether designed by the Romans , or the old Britains ) together with our modern Names and Shires , answerable to each of them , we will refer you to the Tables thereof elsewhere . ( 17 ) This whole Province of Britain , as in our History shall appear , was highly esteemed of the Emperours themselves , assuming as a glorious surname Britannicus : coming thither in person over those dangerous and scarce known Seas ; here marrying , living , and dying : enacting here Laws for the whole Empire , and giving to those Captains that served here , many ensigns of great honour ; yea Claudius gave Plantius ( the first Prefect of that Province ) the right hand , as he accompanied him in his Triumph ; and his own Triumph of Britain was set out with such magnificence , that the Provinces brought in golden Crowes of great weight , the Governours commanded to attend , and the very Captains permitted to be present at the same : A Naval Coronet was fixed upon a Pinnacle of his Palace , Arches and Trophies were raised in Rome , and himself on his aged knees mounted the staires into the Capitol , supported by his two sons in Law : so great a joy conceived he in himself for the Conquest of some small portion of Britain . ( 18 ) Now the Romans found it , held it , and left it , as times ripened and rottened their success , with the Names , the Inhabitants , Manners , and Resisters , I leave to be pursued in the following Histories : and will only now shew thee these three Kingdoms , that are ( in present ) the chief Bodies of Great Britains Monarchy ; two of which ( Scotland and Ireland ) shall in their due places have their farther and more particular Descriptions . THE KINGDOME OF ENGLAND map of England ENGLANDS General Description . CHAPTER II. THE Saxons glory now near to expire , by his appointment who holdeth both times and Kingdoms in his all-ordering hand , their own Swords being the Instruments , and the Dan●s the mauls that beat their beautiful Diadem into pieces ▪ the Normans a stirring Nation , ( neither expected , nor much feared ) under the leading of William their Duke , and encouragement of the Roman Bishop ( an usual promoter of broken titles ) made hither suddenly into England , who in one only battel , with the title of his sword and slaughter of Harold , set the imperial Crown thereof upon his own head : which no sooner was done , but the English went down , and the Normans lording it , became Owners of those Cities which themselves never built , possessed those Vineyards which they never planted , drunk of those Wells which they never had digged , and inhabited those Houses , filled with riches , for which they never had laboured : for they found it to be as the land whereupon the Lord set his eye , even from the beginning to the end of the year : not only drinking water of the rain of Heaven , but having also rivers of waters and fountains in her valleys , and without all scarcitie , whose stones are Iron , and out of whose mountains is digged brass . This made them more resolute at first to settle themselves in this fairest and fruitfullest part of the Island ; the conquerour using all policy , both Martial and Civil , to plant his posterity here for ever . How he found the Land governed we shewed in the Heptarchy ; but his restless thoughts were not contented with conquering the Nation and their Land , unless he also overcame their very Customes , Laws , and Language . ( 2 ) Touching the distribution of the Kingdome , whereas other Kings before him made use of it , chiefly for the good of the people , and better ministring of Iustice , he made use of it , to know the wealth of his Subjects , and to enrich his Coffers ; for he caused a description to be made of all England , ●ow much land every one of his Barons possessed how many Knights fees , how many Plow-lands , how many in villanage , how many heads of beasts , yea , how much ready money every man , from the greatest to the ●ast , did possess , and what rents might be made of every mans possession : the Book of which inquisition ( yet in the Exchequer ) was called Doomesday , for the generality of that Iudgment on all the Land : Whereunto we may add his other distribution of this Land ( worse than any former ) when thrusting the English out of their possessions , ●e distributed their inheritances to his Souldiers ; yet so , that all should be held of the King , as of the only true Lord and possessor . ( 3 ) For the Laws by which he meant to govern , he held one excellent rule and purpose , which was , that a people ought ●to be ruled by Laws written and certain : for otherwise new Iudges would still bring new Iudgments : and therefore he caused twelve to be chosen out of every County , which should on their oath , without inclining one way or other , neither adding nor de●racting , open unto him all their ancient Laws and Customes . By whose relation understanding that three sorts of Laws formerly were in the Land , Merchelenage , West-Saxonlage , Dane-lage ; he had preferred these last , ( him●elf and people being anciently derived from those Northern people ) had not all the Barons bewayling to the King , how grievous it was for a Land to be judged by those Laws which they understood not , altered his resolute purpose : yet in bringing in the strange ●orms of Norman Processe , and pleading in the French tongue ( which continued till Edward the thirds time ) that grievance was bu● slend●rly prevented . So likewise did he much alter the old Courts of Iustice , where these Laws shou●d be ministred , but whereas the ancient Kings of England , ac●ording to Moses his example , sate in p●rson in the seat of Iustice , to right the greater affairs of their Subjects , as William Lambe●● sheweth in King Alfred , Edgar , Canutus , &c. and proves out of the Kings Oath , out of Bracto● , Britain , ●axon Laws , &c. King William not only continued this , but beside● er●cted some other C●urt● of ●ustice , as the Exchequer , and certain Courts and Sessions to be held four times every year ●appointing both Iudges ( some to hear causes , others to whom appeals should be made , but none from them ) and also Praefects to look to good orders . Those last Polydor calleth Iustices of Peace ; but their instruction seems to be far later : and no less is his errour on the other side , in saying the Conquerour first instituted Sheriffs , and the trial by twelve men , which were both ancienter . ( 4 ) And because the Conquerour , for honour of Bishops , caused them to remove from small obssure places to Cities of more renown ; we have therefore reserved to this last ●lace that division of this Kingdome ▪ which is according to Iurisdiction Episcopal . Formerly in the year of Salvation , 636. Honorius the first Archbishop of Canterbury , first divided England into Parishes , which at this day are contained under their several Diocesans , and these again under their two Metropolitanes ( Can●erbury and York ) in manner following . CANTERBVRY . Bishopricks . Counties . Parishes . Canterbury . Kent . 257. Rochester . 98. London . Essex . 623. Middlesex . Hertford-shire part . Lincoln . Lincoln-shire . 1255. Leicester-shire . Huntington . Bedford-shire . Buckingham-shire . Hertford-shire part . Chichester . Hertford-shire 250. Sussex . Winchester . Hant-shire . 362. Surrey . Wight Isle . Gernesey Isle . Iersey Isle . Salisbury . Wilt-shire . 248. Bark-shire . Exeter . Devon-shire . 604. Corne-wall . Bath and Wells . Sommerset-shire . 388. Gloucester . Gloucester-shire . 267. Worcester . Worcester-shire . 241. Warwick-shire . Litchfield and Coventry . Warwick shire part . 557. Stafford-shire . Derby-shire . Shrop-shire part . Hereford . Shrop shire part . 313. Hereford-shire . Ely. Cambridge-shire . 141. Ely Isle . Norwich . Norfolke . 1641. Suffolk . Oxford . Oxford-shire . 195. Peterborow . Northampton . 293. Rutland-shire . Bristow . Dorset-shire . 236. Glamorgan . Landaffe . Monmouth-shire . 177. Brecknock-shire . Radnor-shire . S. David . Pembroke-shire . 308. Caermarden . Bangor . Caernarvon-shire . 107. Anglesey Isle . Merioneth-shire . Denbigh-shire . S. Asaph . Devon-shire part . 121. Flint-shire part .   YORK .   York . York-shire . 581. Nottingham-shire . Chester . Cheshire . 256. Richmond-shire . Cumberland part . Lanca-shire . Flint part . Carlile . Cumberland part . 93. Westmorland . Durham . ●urham 135. Northumberland . Sodor . Man Island . 17. Total Bishopricks 27. Parishes 9285. ( 9 ) To speak nothing of these twenty eight Flamins the Priests of Idolatry , and the three Arch-Flamins , whose seats were at London , Caerlion , and York ; all of them converted by King Lucius into Christian Bishops Sees ; let us only insist upon the three last , by the same King appointed to be Metropolitanes over the rest ; among whom London is said to be chief ; whose first Christian Archbishop was Thean , the builder of S. Peters Church in Cornhill for his Cathedral , as by an ancient Table there hanging , was affirmed , and tradition to this day doth hold . Our British Historians do bring a succession of fifteen Arch-bishops , to have sate from his time unto the coming of the Saxons , whose last was Vodius , slain by King Vortiger , for reprehending his heathenish marriage with Rowen , the Daughter of Hengist . At what time began the misery of the Land , and of holy Religion , both which they laid waste under their prophane feet : until Ethelbert of Kent , the first Christian Saxon King , advanced Christianity , and Augustine to the Archbishoprick of Ca●terbury , when London under Melitus became subject to that See. ( 6 ) At Caerlion upon Vske in the time of the great Arthur , sate Dubritius , a man excellently learned , and of an hol● conversation ; he had sate Bishop of Landaffe a long time , and with Germanus and Lupus , two French Bishops , greatly impugned the Pelagian Heresie , infecting at that time the Island very far , whose fame and integrity was such , that he was made Archbishop of all Wales but grown very old , he resigned the same unto Davi● his Disciple , a man of greater birth , and greater austerity of life , who by consent of King Arthur , removed his Archbishops See unto Menevia , a place very solitary and meet for meditation : the miracles of the man ( which are said to be many ) changed both the name of the place into his own , and robbed Caerlion of her Archiepiscopal seat : This See of S. Davids ( as in an ancient Register belonging to that Church is recorded ) had seven Bishops Suffragans subject unto it , which were Exeter , Bath , Hereford , Landaffe , Bangor , S. Asap● , and ●ernes in Ireland : notwithstanding , either for want of Pall , carried into Britany by Archbishop Sampson , in a dangerous infection of sickness , or by poverty or negligence , it lost that jurisdiction , and in the days of King Henry the first , became subject to the See of Canterbury . ( 7 ) York hath had better succes● than either of the former , in retaining her original honour , though much impaired in her circuit , challenging to have been sometime Metropolitane over all the Bishops in Scotland ; and although it was made equal in honour and power with Canterbury , by Pope Gregory , as Beda relateth , and had twelve suffragan Bishopricks that owed obedience , onely four now acknowledge York their Metropolitane , but Canterbury the Superiour : for William the Conquerour thinking it dangerous to have two in like authority , lest the one should set on his Crown , and the other 〈◊〉 it off , left York to be a primate , but Canterbury only the primate of all England . ( 8 ) That Lichfield was made an Archiepiscopal See by Pope Hadrian the first , at the suit of Offa , the great King of Mercia , is manifested by Matthew of Westminster , unto whose Iurisdiction were assigned the Bishopricks of Winchester , Hereford , Leicester , Sidnacester , Helmham , and Dunwich , and whose first and last Archbishop was Aldwin . That Winchester also had intended an Archiepiscopal Pall , the same Author recordeth , when Henry Bloys , of the Bloud Royal , greatly contended with the Archbishop of Canterbury for superiority , under the pretence of being Cardinal de latere ; to him an Archiepiscopal Pall● was sent , with power and authority over seven Churches ; but he dying before that the design was done , the See of Winchester remained in subjection to Canterbury . And that ( long before ) the See of Dorchester by Oxford , had the Iurisdiction of an Archbishop , is apparent by those provinces that were under his Diocess , which were Winchester , Oxford , Lincoln , Salisbury , Bristow , Wells , Litchfield , Chester , and Exeter ; and the first Bishop of this great circuit , Derinus , was called the Apostle and Bishop of the West Saxons : which in his next successor was divided into two parts , Winchester and Dorchester , and not long after into Lichfield , Sidnacester , and Legecister ; and lastly , the See removed from Dorchester to Lincoln , as now it is . And thus far for the division of this Realm , both Politick and Ecclesiastick , as it hath stood and stands at this day . ( 9 ) But the whole Islands division by most certain Record was anciently made , when Iulius Agricola drew a trench or fortification upon that narrow space of ground betwixt Edenborough Frith , and Dunbetton Bay , maketh the Southern part a province unto the Roman Empire . Afterwards Hadrian the Emperour , seeing perhaps the Province too spacious to be well governed without great expence , drew back these limits almost sourscore miles shorter , even to the mouth of the River Tyne , which he fortified with a wall of admirable work unto Carl●le , where stood the Lands border , while it was a Roman Province : yet the conquering Saxons did spread again over those bounds , and ( as seemeth ) enlarged their government to that first Tract , as by this inscription in a Stone Cross standing upon a Bridge over the water of Frith , appeareth . I am a free Mark as Passengers may ken , To Scots , to Britains , and to English men . ( 10 ) But afterward William the Conquerour , and Malcolm King of Scotland , falling to an agreement for their limits ▪ arreared a Cross upon Stanemore , where on the one side the portraiture and Armes of the King of England was sculptured , and of the King of Scots on the other ( a piece whereof is yet remaining there near to the Spittle ) thence called the Rey-Cross , there erected to be a Meare-stone to either Kingdome . His successors also abolished the two partitions in the West , whereby the Welsh became one Nation and Kingdome with the English. It is also said that King Stephen , to purchase friendship with the Scottish Nation , gave unto their King the County of Cumberland , who with it held both Westmorland and Northumberland ; but as Newbrigensis writeth , he restored them to King Henry the second , wisely considering his great power and right to those parts . ( 11 ) The last known borders were from the Sulway in the West bay , along the Cheviot hills , unto the water of Tweed by Barwick in the East ; to maintain which , on each part many Laws have been made , and many inrodes , robberies , and fewdes practised ; all which by the hand of God is cut off , and by the rightfull succession of King Iames our Soveraigne , who hath broken down the partition of this great Island , and made the extreames of two Kingdomes , the very midst of his great united Empire . KENT map of Kent KENT . CHAPTER III. KENT , the first province appearing in the South of this Kingdom , is bounded upon the North with the famous River Thamisis , on the East with the German Ocean : on the South with Sussex and the narrow Seas ▪ and upon the West with Sussex and Surrey . The length thereof extending from Langley in the West , unto Ramsgate Eastward in the Isle of Thanet , is about 53 English miles . From Rother in the South , unto the Isle of Graine Northward , the breadth is not much above 26 , and the whole circumference about 160 miles . ( 2 ) In form it somewhat resembleth the head of a Hammer or Battle-axe , and lieth corner-wise into the Sea ; by Strabo , Caesar , Diodorus , and P●olomy , called Cantium , of Cant , or Canton , an Angle or Corner : or of Caine a British word , which signifieth Bushes or VVoods , whereof that County in those former times was plentifully stored . ( 3 ) The Air though not very clear , because of the vapours arising from the Sea , and Rivers that environ the same , is both wholesome and temperate , as seated nearest to the Equinoctial , and the furthest from the North Pole , not touched with cold as the other parts of the Land are . ( 4 ) The soil towards the East is uneven , rising into little hills , the West more level and Woody ; in all places fruitful , and in plenty equals any other of the Realm , yea , and in some things hath the best esteem ; as in broad cloths , Fruits , and feeding for Cattel . Onely Mines ( except Iron ) are wanting : all things else delivered with a prodigal heart and liberal hand . ( 5 ) Sundry navigable Rivers are in Kent , whereof Medway , that divideth the shire in the midst , is chief ; in whose bosome securely rideth his Majesties Navy Royal , the walls of the Land , and terrours of the Sea , besides ten other of name and account , that open with twenty Creeks and Havens for Ships arrivage into this Land , four of them bearing the name of Cinque Ports , are places o● great strength and priviledges , which are Dover , Sandwich , Rumney , and Winchelsey : among which Dover with the Castle is accounted by Matthew Paris the Monk , the lock and key to the whole Realm of England ; and by Iohn Rosse and Lidgate is said to be built by Iulius Caesar , fatal only for the death of King Stephen , and surrender of King Iohn therein happening . ( 6 ) A conceit is , that Goodwin Sands were sunk for the sins of himself and his sons : Shelves indeed that dangerously lie on the North-east of this County , and are much feared of all Navigators . These formerly had been firm ground , but by a sudden inundation of the Sea were swallowed up , as at the same time a great part of Flanders and the Low Countries were ; and the like also at the same time befel in Scotland , as Hector Boetius their Historiographer writeth . A like accident hapned in the year 1586 , the fourth day of August , in this County , at Mottingham , a Town eight miles from London , suddenly the ground began to sink , and three great Elmes thereon growing , were carried so deep into the bowels of the earth , that no part of them could any more be seen , the hole left in compass fourscore yards about , and a line of fifty fathoms plummed into it , doth find no bottom . ( 7 ) The Kentish people in Caesars time were accounted the civillest among the Britains ; and as yet esteem themselves the freest Subjects of the English , not conquered , but compounded with by the Normans ; and herein glory , that their King and Commons of all the Saxons were the first Christians , converted in Anno 596 ; yea , and long before that time also Kent received the Faith : for it is recorded that Lucius the first Christian British King in this Island , built a Church to the name and service of Christ , within the Castle of Dover , endowing it with the Toll of the same Haven . ( 8 ) This County is enriched with two Cities and Bishops Sees , strengthened with 27 Castles , graced with 8 of His Majesties most Princely Houses , traded with 24 Market-Towns , and beautified with many stately and gorgeous buildings . The chiefest Ci●y thereof , the Motropolitane and Arch-bishops See , is Canterbury , bui●t ( as our British Historians report ) 900 years before the birth of ●hrist ; by Henry of Huntington , called Caier-Kent , wherein ( as M. Lambard saith ) was erected the first School of professed Arts and Sciences , and the same a pattern unto Sigibert King of the East Angles , for hi● foundation at Cambridge ; notwithstanding by the computation of time , this Sigibert was slain by Penda , King of Mercia , thirty years before that Theodore the Grecian was Bishop of Canterbury , who is said to be the erector of that Academy . But certain it is , that Austin the Monk had made this City famous before that time , by the conversion of these Saxons unto Christiani●y , and in building a most magnificent Church to Gods service , wherein eight of their Kings have been interred , but all their Monuments since over-shadowed by the height of Beckets Tomb , that for glory , wealth , and superstitious worships , equalized the Pyramides of Egypt , or the Oracle of Delphos , yet now with Dagon is fallen before the Ark of God. This City hath been honoured with the presence and Coronations of King Iohn and Queen Isabel his wife , with the marriages of King Henry the third , and of King Edward the first , and with the interments of Edward the Black Prince , King Henry the fourth , and of Queen Ioan his wife : as Feversham is with the burials of King Stephen , and of Maud his Queen and wife . But as in glory so in adversity hath this City born a part , being divers times afflicted by the Danes , but most especially in the dayes of Ethelred , who in that revenge of their massacre , made havock of all , and herein slew forty three thousand and two hundred persons , the tenth besides reserved to live . Afterward it recovered breath and beauty by the liberality of Bishop Lanford ; Characters and priviledges by King Henry the third ; strength in Trench and Fortifications from King Richard the second ; and lastly , Walls for her defence by Simon Sudbury Arch-bishop of that See : whose Graduation is placed for Latitude 51. 25 , and parallelized for Longitude 22. 8 , her sister Rochester differing not much in either degree . ( 9 ) Which City ( as Beda saith ) was built by one Rof , Lord of the same , though some ascribe the foundation of the Castle to Iulius C●sar , and hath been often ruinated by the injuries of war , both in the times when the Saxons strove for superiority among themselves , wherein this City was laid waste , Anno 680. as also in the assaults of their common enemy the Danes , who about the year 884. from France sailed up the River Medway , and besieged the same ; so that had not King Elfred speedily come to the rescue , it had been overthrown by those Pagans . And again in Anno 999. the D●nes miserably spoiled this City in the time of King Ethelred : neither ha●n it stood safe from danger since ( though not defaced so much by war ) for twice hath it been sore endamaged by chance of fire : the first was in the Reign of King Henry the first , Anno 1130. himself being present with most of his Nobility , for the consecration of the Cathedral Church of S. Andrew . And again almost wholly consumed about the latter end of the Reign of King Henry the second , Anno 1177. Yet after all these calamities , it recovered some strength again , by the bounty of King Henry the third , both in buildings , and in ditching her about for defence . ( 10 ) Civil broyls and dissentions hath this County been burdened with , and that not only under the Saxons and Danes , whose desolations were many and grievous , but also by other rebellions since the Normans Conquest , both in those infamous insurrections , called The Barons Wars , in the reign of King Henry the Third , wherein much harm was done : as also under King Richard the Second , when Wat Tyler , Captain of a dreadful commotion , assembled at Black-heath , Mile-end , and in London , doing many outrages , where in Smithfield he was lastly struck down by William VVallworth then Mayor of the City , and worthily slain for his notorious treasons . Again , upon Black-heath , Michael Ioseph , the Lord Dawbeney with their Cornish Rebels , were overthrown by King Henry the Seventh , Anno 1497. ( 11 ) Kent in the time of Iulius Caesar , was governed by four several Kings . Under Vortigern the Britain , by a Lieutenant called Guoronge , from whom the said King gave it to Hengist the Saxon , in favour of his Daughter Howen , who seeking to make himself absolute King thereof , eight years after his first entrance , fought a victorious battel against the Britains near unto Crayford , and thenceforth accounted that Province his own . Yet afterward Vortimer the valiant Britain , gave him battel at Aylesford : in the which both Horsa and Catigern , brethren to both the Generals , were slain , and the Saxons driven into the Isle of Thanet , their first assigned habitation , not daring to enter the Continent so long as Vortimer lived . Catigern was interred upon that plain , where to this day remaineth his Monument , being 4 stones pitched in manner of the Stonehenge , and is vulgarly called Citscotehouse . The like Monument was of Horsa at Horsted , which stormes and time have now devoured . Hengist made this Province a Kingdom for himself and successors , which name and power it retained the space of three hundred and twenty years , when Egbert King of the West-Saxons subdued and joyned it to his own : in which subjection it stood untill the time of the Normans . Then it was given under the title of an Earldom by the Conquerour , unto Otha Bishop of Bayeux his half brother , whose successors in that dignity were those most honourable families , whose Arms and Names within this plot are blazed and expressed . It is divided principally into five Lathes , subdivided into 66 hundreds , and them again into 398 Parishes : and wherein had been seated twenty three Religious Houses . SUSSEX map of Sussex SUSSEX . CHAPTER IV. SOUTH-SEX , a word compounded of the site thereof Southward , lieth stretched along the British Seas : The North confronts upon Surrey and Kent , and the West butteth upon Hampshire . ( 2 ) For form it lieth long and narrow , so that all her Rapes do run quite through the Shire , and containeth from Westharting in the West , to Kent ditch , that divides it from Kent in the East , sixty four miles , but in the broadest part little above twenty , the whole circumference about one hundred fifty eight miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good , though somewhat clouded with mists , which arise forth of her South bordering Sea , who is very prodigal unto her for Fish and Sea-fowl , though as sparing for Harbours or Ships arrivage ; and those which she hath , as uncertain for continuance , as dangerous for entrance . ( 4 ) Rich is the Soil , and yieldeth great plenty of all things necessary , but very ill for travellers , especially in the winter , the Land lying low , and the ways very deep , whose middle tract is garnished with Meadows , Pastures and Corn fields , the Sea-coast with Hills , which are called the Downs , abundantly yielding both Grain and Grass , and the North side over shadowed with pleasant Groves and thick Woods , where sometimes stood the famous wood Andradswald , containing no less than an hundred and twenty miles in length , and thirty in breadth , taking the name of Andexida a City adjoyning : both which were won from the Britains by Ella the first Saxon King of this Province , and the place made fatal to Sigebert King of the VVest-Saxens , who being deposed from his Royal throne , was met in this Wood by a Swine-herd , and slain in revenge of his Lord , whom Sigebert had nurdered . ( 5 ) The ancient people in the Romans time were the R●gni , of whom we have spoken , and who were subdued by Vespasian the Leader of the second Legion under Aulus , Plautius , Lieutenant in Britain for Claudius the Emperour . But after the departure of the Romans , this , with Surrey , was made the South ●axons King●ome : yet that giving place to the VVest-Saxons , as they in time to the Normans , i● became a Province under the Conquerours power , who gave to his followers much Land in these parts . ( 6 ) The place of most account in this Shire is Chichester , by the Britains called C●ercei , a City beautifull and large , and very well walled about , first built by Cissa the second King of the ●outh Saxons , wherein his Royal Palace was kept . And when King VVilliam the First had enacted that Bishops Sees should be trans●●ted out of small Towns unto places of greater resort , the Re●idence of the Bishop ( until then held at Selsey ) was removed to this City , where Bishop Raulfe began a most goodly Cathedral Church : but before it was fu●ly finished by a sudden mischance of fire was quite consumed . Yet the same Bishop with the helping liberality of King Henry the First , began it again , and saw it wholly finished ; whose beauty and greatness her fatal enemy still envying , again cast down in the dayes of King Richard the First , and by her raging flames consumed the buildings both of it and the Bishops Palace adjoyning , which Seffrid the second Bishop of that Name re-edified and built anew . And now to augment the honour of this place , the City hath born the Title of an Earldome ; whereof they of Arundel were sometimes so styled . Whose Graduation for Latitude , which is removed from the Aequator unto the degree fifty five minutes ; and for Longitude , observing the same point in the West , whence Mercator hath measured , are twenty degrees . ( 7 ) With whom for frequency , bigness , and building , the Town Lewes seemeth to contend , where King Athelstane appointed the mintage of his Moneys , and VVilliam de VVarron built a strong Castle , whereunto the disloyal Barons of King Henry the Third in warlike manner resorted , and fought a great Battle against their own Soveraign and his son , wherein the King had his Horse flain under him , Richard , King of the Romans surprised and taken in a Wind-mill , and Prince Edward delivered unto them upon equal conditions of peace . But a greater Battel was fought at Battle , when the hazard of England was tried in one days fight , and Harold the King gave place to his Conquerour by losing of his life , among sixty seven thousand , nine hundred seventy four Englishmen besides ; whose bloud so spilt , gave name to the place , in French Sangue lac . And the soyl naturally after rain becoming of a reddish colour , caused William Newbery untruly to write , That if there fall any small sweet showers in the place where so great a slaughter of the English-men was made , presently sweateth forth very fresh bloud out of the earth , as if the evidence thereof did plainly declare the voice of bloud there shed , and cried still from the earth unto the Lord. ( 8 ) But places of other note in this Shire are these : from Basham , Earl Harold taking the Sea for his delight , in a small Boat , was driven upon the Coast of Normandy , where by Duke William he was retained , 'till he had sworn to make him King after Edward the Confessors death ; which oath being broken , the Bastard arrived at Pensey , and with his sword revenged that Perjury . At VVest-VVittering also Ell● the Saxon before him had landed for the conquering of those parts , and gave name to the shore from Cimen his son But with greater glory doth Gromebridge raise up her head , where Charles Duke of Orleance , father to Lewes the twelfth : King of France , taken prisoner at Agincourt , was there a long time detained . ( 9 ) The commodities of this Province are many and divers , both in Corn , Cattle , VVood , Iron , and Glass ; which two last , as they bring great gain to their possessors , so do they impoverish the County of Woods , whose want will be found in ages to come , if not at this present in some sort felt . ( 10 ) Great have been the devotions of religious Persons , in building and consecrating many houses unto the use and only service of Christ ; whose Beadmen abusing the intents of their Founders , hath caused those Foundations to lament their own ruins : For in the tempestuous time of King Henry the Eighth , eighteen of them in this County were blown down , whose fruit fell into the Laps of some that never meant to restore them again to the like use . This County is principally divided into six Rapes , every of them containing a River , a Castle and Forrest in themselves , besides the several Hundreds whereunto they are parted , that is the Rape of Chichester into seven , of Arundel into five , of Bramber into ten , of Lewes into thirteen , of Pevensey into seventeen , and of Hastings into thirteen , in all fifty six ; wherein are seated ten Castles , eighteen Market-Towns , and three hundred and twelve Parish-Churches . SURREY map of Surrey SURREY . CHAPTER V. SURREY , by Beda called Sutbri , lieth seperated upon the North from the counties of Buckingham and Middlesex , by the great River Thamisis ; upon the East , Kent doth inbound it ; upon the South is held in with Sussex and Hamp-shire ; and her West part is bordered upon by Hamp-shire and Bark-shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is somewhat square , and lieth by North and by East , whereof Redrith and Frensham are the opposites , betwixt whom are extended thirty four miles . The broadest part is from Awfold Southward , to Thamisis by Stanes , and them asunder twenty two : the whole in circumference is one hundred and twelve miles . ( 3 ) The heavens breathing Air in this Shire is most sweet and delectable , so that for the same cause many Royal Palaces of our Princes are therein seated , and the Countrey better stored with game than with grain , insomuch that this County is by some men compared unto a home-spun freeze-cloth , with a costly fair list , for that the out-verge doth exceed the middle it self . And yet it is wealthy enough both in Corn and Pasturage , especially in Holmesdale , and towards the River of Thamisis . ( 4 ) In this shire the Regni ( an ancient people mentioned by Ptolomy ) were seated , whom he brancheth further through Sussex and some part of Hamp-shire . And in the wane of the Romans Government , when the Land was left to the will of invaders , the South-Saxons under Ella here erected their Kingdome , which with the first was raised , and soonest found end . From them no doubt the Countrey was named Suth-rey as seated upon the South of the River ; and now by contraction is called Sur●ey : ( 5 ) And albeit the County is barren of Cities or Towns of great estate , yet is she stored with many Pri●cely Houses , yea and five of his Majesties , so magnificently built , that of some she may well say , no shire hath none such , as is None such indeed . And were not Richmond a fatal place of Englands best Princes , it might in estem be ranked with the richest : For therein died the great Conquerour of France , King Edward the Third , the beautiful Ann daughter to Charles the Fourth , Emperour , and intirely beloved wife to King Richard the Second ; the most wise Prince King Henry the Seventh , and the rarest of her Sex , the Mirrour of Princes , Queen Elizabeth , the worlds love , and Subjects joy . ( 6 ) At M●rton likewise Kenulph King of the West-Saxons came to his untimely end : and at Lambeth the hardy Canute , and last of the Danish Kings , died among his Cups . But as these places were fatal for the last breath of these Princes , so other in this County have been graced with the body and beginning of other worthy Monarchs : for in Cher●sey Abby King Henry the Sixth , who was deposed and made away in the Tower of London , was first interred without all ●uneral pomp , but for his holy life was imputed a Saint , and lastly translated , and intombed at Winsor . At Kingstone likewise stood the Chair of Majesty , wherein Athelstan , Edwin , and Etheldred sate at their Coronation , and first received their S●epter of Imperial power . Guildford likewise hath been far greater than now it is , when the Palace of our English-Saxon Kings was therein set . And seeing it is the midst of the Shire , the graduation from thence shall be observed , where for Latitude the Pole is raised from the degree 51 , 22 s●ruples : and her Longitude from the West in the degree 20 and 2 scruples . ( 7 ) Neither can we account Okam and Ripley , two small Villages , the least in this Shire , which have brought forth the well known men , William de Okam , that deep Philosopher , and admirable Scholar , and George de Ripley , the ring-leader of our Alchymists and mystical impostors ; both of them born in this County , and very near together . But why speak I of these , sith a place nearer to sight and greater for ●ame , even Lambeth , is the High Seat of Ecclesiastical Government , Piety and Learning , and Palace of Canterburies Arch-bishops , the Metropolita●s of England . First erected by Archbishop Baldwin , and ever since hath been the residing of all those worthy Prelates of our Church , who in a long succession ( even from Anno 596 : ) have continued to him that now most worthily sits at the Churches stern , Richard by Gods providence Lord Archbishop of that See , a most faithfull and prudent Councellour unto King Iames , and a most learned and provident Guide of our most flourishing Church : whose gracious favour undeservedly conferred upon me , hath been a great encouragement to these my poor endeavours . ( 8 ) Memorable places of Battles fought before the Conquest , were Wembledon , where ( when the fulness of prosperity burst forth into Civil Dissentions among the Saxons ) a bloudy Battle was fought betwixt Cheaulin the West Saxon and young Ethelbert of Kent , wherein he was discomfited and two of his principal Leaders slain , about the year of Christ 560. and three hundred thirty three years after , King Elfred with a small power overcame the Danes with a great slaughter at Farnham in this County , which somewhat quelled the courage of his savage enemy . ( 9 ) Religious Houses erected in this shire by the devotion of Princes , and set apart from publick uses to Gods Divine Service , and their own salvation , as then was taught , the best in account , were Shene , Chertsey , Merton , Newarke , Rygats , Waverly , Horsleg ; and in Southwarke , Bermundsey , and S. Maries . These all flourished with increase , till the ripeness of their fruit was so pleasing in sight and taste unto King Henry the Eighth , that in beating the boughs he brake down body and all , ruinating those houses , and seizing their rich possessions into his own hands : So jealous is God of his honour , and so great vengeance followeth the sin of Idolatry . ( 10 ) In this Shire have stood eight fair and strong Castles : such we●e Addington , Darking , Starburgh , Rygate , Gilford , Farnham , Goseford , and Brenchingley : but of greater State are Oking , Otlands , None-such , and Richmond , his Majesties Royal Mannors . And for service to the Crown or Common-wealths imployments , this Counties division is into thirteen Hundreds , wherein are seated eight Market-Towns , and one hundred and forty Parish-Churches SOUTHAMPTON map of Southhampton HANT-SHIRE . CHAPTER VI. HANT-SHIRE , lying upon the West of England is bordered upon the North by Barkshire , upon the East with Surrey and Sussex , upon the South with the British Seas , and Isle of Wight , and upon the West with Dorset and Wilt-shire . ( 2 ) The length thereof from Blackwater in the North upon Surrey , unto Bascomb in the South upon the Sea , extended in a right line , is fifty four English miles , and the breadth drawn from Petersfield in the East , unto Tidworth in the West , and confines of Wilt-shire , is little less than thirty miles , the whole circumference about one hundred fifty and five miles . ( 3 ) The Air is temperate , though somewhat thick by reason of the Seas , and the many Rivers that through the Shire do fall , whose plenty of Fish , and fruitfull increase , do manifoldly redeem the harmes which they make . ( 4 ) The Soyl is rich sor Corn and Cattel , pleasant for Pasturage , and as plenteous for Woods ; in a word , in all Commodities either for Sea or Land , blessed and happy . ( 5 ) Havens it hath , and those Commodities both to let in , and to lose out Ships of great burden in trade of Merchandise , or other imployments : whereof Portsmouth , Tichfield , Hamble , and South-hampton are chief : Besides many other creeks that open their bosoms into those Seas , and the Coast strengthened with many strong Castles , such as Hurst , Calshot , South-hampton , S. Andrews . Worth , Porchester , and the South Castle , besides other Bulwarkes , or Block-houses that secure the Countrey : and further in the Land , as Malwood , Winchester , and Odiam , so strong that in the time of King Iohn , thirteen Englishmen only defended the Fort for fifteen days against Lewis of Franca , that with a great Host assaulted it most hotly . ( 6 ) Anciently it was possest upon the North by the Segontians , who yielded themselves to Iulius Caesar , and whose chief City was Vindonum , Caer Segonte , now Silcester ; and upon the South by the Belgae and Regni , who were subdued by Plausius and Vespasian the Romans , where Titus rescuing his Father , straightly besieged by the Britains , as Dio and Forcatulus do report , was grasped about with an Adder , but no hurt to his person , and therefore taken for a sign of good luck . Their chief Town was Rincewood , as yet sounding the name : and more within Land inhabited the Manures , as Beda calls them , whose Hundreds also to this day gave a relish of their names . ( 7 ) Near Ringwood , and the place once YTENE , from God and peoples Service , to Feast and luxury , thirty six Parish Churches were converted , and pulled down by the Conquerour , and thirty miles of circuit enforrested for his game of Hunting , wherein his sons Richard and Rufus , with Henry the second son to Duke Robert , his first , felt by hasty death the hand of Iustice and Revenge : for in the same Forrest , Richard by blasting of a Pestilent Air , Rufus by shot taken for a Beast , and Henry as Absalom hanged by a bough , came to their untimely ends . At so dear a rate the pleasures of Dogs , and harbour for beasts were bought in the bloud of these Princes . ( 8 ) The general Commodities gotten in this Shire , are Wools , Cloaths , and Iron , whereof great store is therein wrought from the Mines , and thence transported into all parts of this Realm , and their Cloaths and Karsies carried into many foreign Countries , to that Countries great benefit , and Englands great praise . ( 9 ) The Trade thereof with other provisions for the whole , are vented through eighteen Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Winchester , the Britains Caer Gwent , the Romans Venta Belgarum , in chief , ancient enough by our British Historians . as built by King Budhudthras , nine hundred years before the Nativity of Christ ; and famous in the Romans times for the weavings and embroderies therein wrought , to the peculiar uses of their Emperours own persons . In the Saxons time , after two Calamities of consuming fire , her walls was raised , and the City made the Royal Seat of their West Saxons Kings , and the Metropolitan of their Bishops See , wherein Egbert and Elfred their most famous Monarchs were Crowned : and Henry the third , the Normans longest Reigner , first took breath : And here King Aethelstane erected six Houses for his Mint , but the Danish desolation over running all , this City felt their fury in the days of King Ethelbright , and in the Normans time , twice was defaced by the mis-fortune of fire , which they again repaired and graced with the trust of keeping the publick Records of the Realm . In the civil wars of Maud and Stephen , this City was sore sacked , but again received breath , was by King Edward the third appointed the place for Mart of Wool and Cloth. The Caehedral Church built by Kenwolf King of the West-Saxons , that had been Amphibalus , S. Peters , Swethins , and now holy Trinitie , is the Sanctuary for the ashes of many English Kings : for herein great Egbert anno 836. with his son King Ethelwolf , 857. Here Elfred Oxfords founder , 901. with his Queen Elswith 904. Here the first Edmund before the Conquest , 924. with his sons Elfred and Elsward . Here Edred , 955. and Edwy , 956. both Kings of England : Here Emme , 1052. with her Danish Lord Canute , 1035. and his son Hardicanute , 1042. And here lastly , the Normaus , Richard and Rufus , 1100. were interred ; their bones by Bishop Fox were gathered and shrined in little gilt coffers fixed upon a wall in the Quire , where still they remain carefully preserved . This Cities situation is fruitful and pleasant , in a valley under hills , having her River on the East and Castle on the West , the circuit of whose walls are well near two English miles , containing one thousand eight hundred and eighty paces ; through which openeth six gates for entrance . and therein are seven Churches for divine Service , besides the Minister , and those decayed ; such as Callender , Ruell Chappell , S. Maries Abbey , and the Friers without the Suburbs , and Sooke ; in the East is S. Pete●s , and in the North Hyde Church and Monastery , whose ruins remaining , shew the beau●y that formerly it bare . The graduation of this City by the Mathematicks , is placed for Latitude in the Degree 51 , 10 minutes , and for Longitude 19 , 3 minutes . ( 10 ) More South , is South-hampton , a Town populous , rich and beautiful , from whom the whole Shire deriveth her name , most strongly walled about with square stone , containing in circuit one thousand and two hundred paces , having seven Gates for entrance , and twenty nine Towers for defence , two very stately Keys for Ships arrivage , and five fair Churches for Gods divine Service , besides an Hospital , called Gods-house , wherein the unfortunate Richard , Earle of Cambridge , beheaded for treason , lieth interred . On the West of this Town is mounted a most beautifull Castle , in form Circular , and wall within wall , the foundation upon a hill so topped , that it cannot be ascended but by stairs , carrying a goodly prospect both by Land and Sea ; and in the East without the walls a goodly Church sometimes stood , called S. Maries , which was pulled down , for that it gave the French direction of course , who with fire had greatly endangered the Town : instead thereof , is newly erected a small and unfinished Chappel . In this place , saith learned Cambden , stood the ancient Clausentium , or Fort of the Romans , whose circuit on that side extended it self to the Sea : this suffered many depredations by the Saxon Pirates , and in Anno 980. was by the Danes almost quite overthrown . In King Edward the thirds time , it was fired by the French , under the Conduct of the King of Sicils son , whom a Countrey man encountred and struck down with his Club , he crying Rancon , that is Ransome : but he neither understandiog his language , nor the Law that Arms doth allow , laid on more soundly , saying , I know thee a Frankon , and therefore shalt thou die : And in Richard the seconds time it was somewhat removed , and built in the place where now it standeth . In this Clausentium , Canute to evict his flatterers , made trial of his Deity , commanding the Seas to keep back from his seat : But being not obeyed , he acknowledged God to be the onely supreme Governour , and in a religious devotion gave up his Crown to the Rood at Winchester . More ancient was Silcester built by Constantius , great Constantines son ; whose Monument ( they say ) was seen in in that City , and where another Constantine put on the purple robe against Honorius ' as both Ninius and Gervase of Canterbury do withess . Herein by our Historians record , the warlike Arthur was Crowned . Whose greatness for circuit contained no less than fourscore Acres of ground , and the walls of great height , yet standing two miles in compass about . This City by the Danish Rovers suffered such wrack , that her mounted tops were never since seen , and her Hulke ( the walls ) immured to the middle of the earth , which the rubbish of her own desolations hath filled . ( 11 ) Chief Religious houses within this County erected and again suppressed were these , Christ's-Church , Beaulieu , Wh●rwall , Rumsey , Redbridge , Winchester , Hyde , South-hampton and Tichfield . The honour of this Shire is dignified with the high Titles of Marquess , and them Earls of VVinchester and South-hampton ; whose Arms of Families are as thou seest , and her division into thirty seven Hundreds , and those again into two Hundred fifty three Parishes . WIGHT ISLAND map of the Isle of Wight VVIGHT ILAND . CHAPTER VII . WIGHT ILAND was in times past named by the Romans , Vecta , Vectis , and Vect●sis , by the Britains , Guyth , and in these days usually called by us , The Lsle of Wight , it belongeth to the County of South-hampton , and lieth out in length over against the midst of it South-ward . It is encompassed round with the British Seas , and severed from the Main-land , that it may seem to have been conjoyned to it , and thereof it is thought the British name ( Guyth ) hath been given unto it , which betokeneth separation , even as Sicily being broken off and cut from Italy , got the name from Secando ( which signifieth cutting . ) ( 2 ) The form of this Isle is long , and at the midst far more wide than at either end : From Binbridge Isle in the East , to Hurst Castle in the West , it stretcheth out in length 20 miles , and in breadth from Newport haven Northward , to Chale-bay Southward 12 miles . The whole in circumference is about sixty miles . ( 3 ) The Air is commended both for health and delight , whereof the first is witnessed by the long continuance of the Inhabitants in the state of their bodies before they be decayed , and the other for quantity gives place to no neighbouring Countrey . ( 4 ) The ground ( to say nothing of the Sea , which is exceeding full of Fish ) consisteth of soil very fruiful ; yet the husbandmans labour deserves to be thankfully remembred , by whose pains and industry it doth not only supply is self , but affords Corn to be carried forth to others . The Land is plentifully stored with Cattle and Grain , and breeds every where store of Conies , Hares , Partridges and Phesants , pleasant for meadows , pasturage , and Parks ; so that nothing is wanting that may suffice man. The middle yields plenty of pasture ; and forrage for Sheep ; whose wooll the Clothiers esteem the best ; next unto that of Leinster and Cotteswold . If you cast your eyes towards the North , it is all over garnished with Meadows , Pastures , and Woods : If towards the South side , it lieth ( in a manner ) wholly bedecked with Corn fields enclosed , where at each end the Sea doth so incroach it self , that it maketh almost two Islands besides , namely , Freshwater Isle , which looketh to the West , and Binbridge Isle , answering it to the East . ( 5 ) The Commodities of the whole chiefly consist of Cattle , Sea fowl , Fish , and Corn , whereof it hath sufficient : Woods are not here very plentiful ; for that it is only stored with one little Forrest ; yet the Countrey of Hant-shire for vicinity of Site , is a friendly neighhour in that behalf ; so ( as it were being tyed together in affinity ) they are always ready and propense to add to each others wants and defects by a mutual supply . ( 6 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Island were the Belgae , spoken of in the several Provinces of Sommerset-shire , Wilt-shire , and Hant-shire . Such as did then possess it were called Lords of the Isle of Wight , till it fell into the Kings hands , by Roger ( Son to William Fits Osburne , slain in the war of Flanders ) that was driven into exile . And Henry the first King of England gave it unto Richard Ridvers , with the Fee or Inheritance of the Town of Christs-Church , where ( as in all other places ) he built certain Fortresses . ( 7 ) The Principal Market-Town in the Isle of Newport , called in times past Medena ; and Novus Burgus de Meden ; that is , The new Burgh of Meden , whereof the whole Countrey is divided into East - Meden , and West - Meden . A Town well seated , and much frequented ; unto whose Burgesses his Majesty hath lately granted the choice of a Major , who with his brethren do govern accordingly . It is populous with Inhabitants , having an entrance into the Isle from the Haven , and a Passage for Vessels of small burden unto the Key . Not far from it , is the Castle Caresbrook , whose founder is said to have been Whitgar the Saxon , and from him called VVhite-Garesburgh : but now made shorter for easier pronunciation ; the graduation whereof for Latitude is in the degree 50 , 36 minutes : and her Longitude in 19 , 4 minutes , where formerly hath stood a Priory , and at Quarre a Nunnery ; a necessary neighbour to those Penitentiaries . And yet in their merry mood the Inhabitants of this Island do boast , that they were happier then their neighbour Countries for that they never had Monk that ever wore hood , Lawyer that cavelled , nor Foxes that were craft● . ( 8 ) It is reported , that in the year of mans Salvation , 1176. and twenty three of King Henry the second , that in this Island it rained a showre of bloud , which continued for the space of 2 hours together , to the great wonder and amazement of the people that beheld it with fear . ( 9 ) This Isle of Wight is fortified both by Art and Nature , for besides the strength of Artificial Forts and Block houses ( wherewith it is well furnished ) it wants not the Assistants of natural Fences , as being enriched with a continual ridge and range of craggy Cliffs and Rocks , and Banks very dangerous for Saylers , as the Needles , so called by reason of their sharpness : The Shingl●s , Mixon , Brambles , &c. ( 10 ) Vespasian was the first that brought it to the subjection of the Romans , whilest he served as a private person under Claudius Caesar. And Cerdic was the first English Saxon that subdued it , who granting it unto Scuffe and VVhitgar , they joyntly together slew ( almost ) all the British Inhabitants ( being but few of them , there remaining ) in the Town aforesaid , called of his name VVhitgaresburgh . VVolpher King of the Mercians reduced this Island afterwards under his obedience , and at that ●ime when he became God-father to Edelwalch King of the South Saxons , and answered fo●●im at his Baptisme ; he assigned it over unto him with the Province also of the Menuari . But when Edelwalch was slain , and Arvandus the petty King of the Island was made away , Caedwalla King of the West-Saxons annexed it to his Dominion , and in a tragical and lamentable Massacre put to the sword ( almost ) every mothers child of the in-born Inhabitants . The thing that is best worthy note and observation is this , That Bishop Wilfrid was the first that instructed the Inhabitants of this Island in Christian Religion , and brought them from Idolatrous Superstition , with the which ( unto that time ) they were obscurely blinded . For Ecclesiastical Iurisdiction , this Countrey belongeth to the Bishop of Winchester , and for Civil government to the County of South-hampton . It is fortified with the strength of six Castles , traded with three Market-Towns , and hath 36 Parish-Churches planted in it . Dorcet Shire map of Dorsetshire DORCESTER-SHIRE . CHAPTER VIII . DORCESTER , from her ancient people DUROTRIGES , is most likely to have received that name : By the Britains called DWRGWEIR , lieth bounded upon the North side with Sommerset and Wilt-shire , upon the West with Devon-shire , and some part with Sommerset ; upon the East altogether with Hamp-shire : and her South part is wholly bounded with the British Seas . ( 2 ) The form grows wider from the West , and spreads her self the broadest in the midst , where it extends to twenty four miles , but in length is no less than forty four : The whole in Circumference about , is one hundred and fifty miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good , and of an healthful constitution : the soyl is fat , affording many commodities , and the Countrey most pleasant in her situation : for the In-land is watered with many sweet and fresh running-Springs , which taking passage through the plain Vallies , do lastly in a loving manner unite themselves together , and of their many branches make many big bodied streams : neither doth the Sea deny them entrance , but helpeth rather to fill up their Banks , whereby V●ssels of Burthen discharge their rich Treasures , and her self with open hand distributeth her gifts all along the South of the Shore ▪ ( 4 ) Antiently it was possest by the Durotriges , whom Ptolomy placeth along in this Tract , who being subdued by the Romans yielded them room , and unwilling subjection . After them the Saxons set foot in these parts , whereof Portland seemeth from that Port to take name , who in this place arrived in Anno 703. and did sorely infect and annoy all the South Tract . And at Bindon before him Kinegillus King of the West-Saxons , in the year of Christ 614 , in a doubtfull and dangerous Batte● vanquished the Britains . Neither were the Saxons so surely herein seated , but that the Danes sought to defeat them thereof : for twice these bold Rovers landed at Chartmouth , the first was in Anno 831. and reign of King Egbert ; and the other eight years after , when Elthelwolfe was King : in both which they went away Victors . Yet when the Iron-side wore the English D●adem , and these fierce people ●ought to pluck it from his Helmet , he met them at Pen-ham in Gillingham Forrest , and with a small power obtained a great victory , causing their King Canute with discourage to retire . ( 5 ) Commodities arising in this County are chiefly Wools and Woods in her North , where the Vorrests are stored with the one , and the pleasant green Hills with the other . The other part is over-spread both with Corn and Grass , and the Sea yieldeth the Isidis Plocamos , a Shrub growing not unlike the Corral without any leafe ; besides her other gifts , turning all to great gain : which the more is made manifect by the many Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Dorchester is the chief , in Antonius his Itinerarum termed Durnovaria , situated upon the South side of Frome , and the Roman Causey called Fosse-way , wherein some of their Legions kept , as by the Rampiers and Co●ns there daily digged up is probably conjectured ; at which time it seemeth the City was walled , whereof some part yet standeth , especially upon the West and South sides , and the Tract and Trench most apparent in a Quadrant-wise almost meeteth the River , containing in circuit one thousand and seven hundred paces , but were cast down by the Daues , whose trampling feet destroyed all things wheresover they came , and hands here razed the Trenches Maudbury and Poundbury , the seals of their Siege , and signs of times misery . About three hundred paces South-ward from hence , standeth an old Fortification of Earth , trenched about and mounted above the ordinary Plain , thirty paces containing some five Acres of ground ; wherein ( at my there-being ) plenty of Corn grew . This the Inhabitants call The Maiden Castle , having entrance thereunto only upon the East and West . This is thought to have been a Summer-Camp or Station of ●he Romans , when their Garisons kept the Frontiers of this Province . The government of this City is yearly committed to two Bayliffs , elected out of eight Magistrates or Aldermen , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants attending them : whence the North-Pole is elevated 50 degrees , 48 minutes in Latitude , and for Longitude is removed from the first West-point unto the Meridian of eighteen degrees . ( 6 ) Other places also are memorable through the actions therein happening , or antiquities there yet remaining : such is ●adbury , now nothing but a Trench and decayed Castle , hardly seen , though sometimes it was the Court of the West-Saxons Kings . Such also is Cerne , where Augustine the English Apostle brake down the Altars and Idols of the Saxons God HELL , whom they devoutly honoured as the only conserver of their health . Shaftsbury also , wherein one Aquila ( whether a Man or Eagle I know not ) by our Historians report , is said to have prophesied the future times of this our Empire , and that after the reigns of the Saxons and Normans it should again return unto the government of the British Kings . But with such vain predictions , our Nation is more than once taxed by Philip Comineus the famous French Writer . In this City Edward the son of great Edgar , and one and thirtieth Monarch of the English-men , was interred , being murdered at Corfe , a Castle seated in the Isle of Purbeck , by his Step mother Aelfrith , to make way for her Son to enjoy his Crown : in repentance whereof , and to pacifie Heaven for his bloud , she built the Monasteries of Ambresbury and Whorwell , in the County of Wilt-shire and South-hampton . In the former of which with great penitency she spent the rest of her life . ( 7 ) As upon the like occasion the Monastery of Middleton was laid in this Shire by King Ethelstan to appease the Ghost of Edwin his innocent brother , and to expiate the sin of his own soul for the bloud of that just Prince , whom most unjustly he caused to die : and with the like devotion , thought not to satisfie for the like bloudy sins , did Queen Cuthburga sue a Divorce from her seco●d husband the Northumberlands King , and at Winburne built her a Nunnery , whereof her self became Abbesse , where afterward was raised a most stately Minster , which added not only more glory to the place , but withall enlarged the name , and made it to be called Winburn-Minster , where King Etheldred , a most vertuous Prince , after much disquietness had with the Danes , in peace here resteth , with his Tombe and ins●ription , as in his History ( Christ assisting ) shall be further seen . Neither among these may I omit Sherburne , which in the year of grace , 704. was made a Bishops See , in whose Cathedral Church was interred the bodies of Ethelbald and Ethelbert , brethren , both of them Monarchs of the English men . ( 8 ) Seven more besides these were set apart from worldly impolyments , consecrated onely to God and his service in this Service ; which were Camestern , Cranburn , Abbottesbury Bindon , Sturminster , Tarrant and Warham . These with the others came to their full period under the hand of King Henry the Eighth , which lay with such weight upon their fair buildings , that he crushed the juyce thereof into his own Coffers . ( 9 ) Castles for defence in repair and decayed , were at Sherburne , Dorchester , Branksey , Portland , Corfe , Newton , Woodford , and Wareham ; so that with these and others the County hath been strengthned , with twelve Religious Houses their poor relieved , with eighteen Market-Towns at this day is traded , and principally into five divisions parted , subdivided into thirty four Hundreds , and them again into two hundred forty eight Parishes . DEVONSHIRE P. Kaerius caelavit . map of Devonshire DEVON-SHIRE . CHAPTER IX . DEVON-SHIRE , by the Cornish Britains called Devinan ; and by contraction of the vulgar Denshire , is not derived from the Danes , as some would have it , but from the people Danmonii , the same we will speak of in Cornwall , and whom Ptolomy hath seated in these Western Borders . ( 2 ) The West of this County is bounded altogether by the River Tamer : the East is held in with the verge of Sommerset-shire ; and the North and South sides are washed wholly with the British and Severn Seas : betwixt whose shoares from Cunshire in the North unto Salcombe Haven entering in at the South , are fifty five miles : and from the Hartland Point West , to Thorncombe East , are fifty four : the whole in circumference about two hundred and two miles . ( 3 ) The Air is sharp , healthful and good : the Soyl is hilly , woody and fruitful , yet so as the ha●d of the Manurer must never be idle , nor the purse of the Farmer never fast shut , especially of them that are far from the Sea , whence they fetch a sand with charge and much travel , which being spread upon the face of the earth , bettereth the leanness thereof for grain , and giveth life to the Glebe with great efficacy . ( 4 ) As Cornwall , so this hath the same Commodities that arise from the Seas : and being more inla●ded hath more commodious Havens for Shippings entercourse , among whom Totnes is famous for Brutes first entrance , if Geffry say true , or if Havillan the Poet took not a Poetical liberty , when speaking of Brute , he wrote thus : The Gods did guide his sail and course : the winds were at command : And Totnes was the happy shour where first he came on land . But with more credit and lamentable event , the Danes at Teigne-mouth first entred for the invasion of this Land , about the year of Christ 787 , unto whom Britrik King of the West-Saxons sent the Steward of his house to know their intents , whom r●sistantly they slew : yet were they forced back to their Ships by the Inhabitants , though long they stayed not , but eagerly pursued their begun enterprises . With more happy success hath Plimouth set forth the purchasers of same , and stopped the entrance of Englands Invaders , as in the reign of that eternized Queen , the ●irrour of Princes , Elizabeth of everlasting memory ; for from this Port Sir Francis Drake , that potent man at Sea , setting forth Anno 1577 in the space of two years and ten months did compass the circle of the earth by Sea. And the Lord Charles Howard , Englands high Admiral , did not only from hence impeach the entrance of the proud invincible Spanish Navy , intending invasion and subversion of State , but with his Bullets so signed their passage , that their sides did well shew in whose hands they had been , as seals of their own shame , and his high honour . ( 5 ) The Commodities of this Shire consist much in Wools and Clothings , where the best and finest Kersies are made in the Land. Corn is most plenteous in the fruitful Vallies , and Cattle spreading upon the topped Hills ; Sea-Fish and Fowl exceedingly abundant . Veins of Lead , yea and some of Silver in this Shire are found : and the Load-stone ( not the least for use and esteem ) from the Rocks upon Dart-more hath been taken . Many fresh Sp●ings bubble from the Hills in this Province , which with a longing desire of Society search out their passage , till they meet and conjoyn in the Vallies , and gathering still strength with more branches , lastly grow bodies able to bear Ships into the Land , and to lodge them of great burthen in their bosoms or Falls : whereof Tamer , Tave , and Ex are the fairest and most commodious . ( 6 ) Upon which last the chief City and shire Town of this County is seated , and from that River hath her name Excester : this City by Ptolomy is called Isca ; by the Itinerary of Antonius Emperour , Isca Danmonioram ; and by the Welsh Pencaer . It is pleasantly seated upon the gentle ascent of an hill , so stately for building so rich with inhabitants , so frequent for commeree and concourse of strangers , that a man can desire nothing but there it is to be had , saith VVilliam of Malmesbury . The walls of this City first built by King Athelstane , are in a manner circular or round , but towards the Ex rangeth almost in a straight line , having six Gates for entrance , and many Watch-Towers interposed betwixt , whose compass containeth about fifteen hundred paces ; upon the East part of this City standeth a Castle of Rugemont , sometimes the Palace of the VVest-Saxon Kings , and after them of the Earls of Cornwall , whose Prospect is pleasant unto the Sea , and over against it a most magnificent Cathedral Church , founded by King Athelstane also , in the honour of S. Peter , and by Edward the Confessor made the Bishops See , which he removed from Crediton or Kirton in this County unto the City of Excester ( as saith the private History of that place : ) whose dilapidations the reverend Father in God VVilliam now Bishop of the Diocess , with great cost hath repaired ; whom I may not name without a most thankful remembrance for the great benefits received by his carefull providence towards me and mine . This City was so strong , and so well stored of Britains , that they held out against the Saxons for 465 years after their first entrance , and was not absolutely won until Athelstane became Monarch of the whole , who then peopled it with his Saxons , and enriched the beauty thereof with many fair buildings ; but in the times of the Danish desolation , this City with the rest , felt their destroying hands ; for in the year 875 it was by them sore afflicted , spoiled , and shaken , and that most grievously by Swane in the year of Christ Iesus 1003. who razed it down from East to West , so that scarcely had it gotten breath before VVilliam the bastard of Normandy besieged it , against whom the Citizens with great manhood served , till a part of the wall fell down of it self , and that by the hand of Gods providence , saith mine Author : Since when it hath been three times besieged , and with valiant resistance ever defended . The first was by Hugh Courtney , Earl of Devonshire , in the civil broiles betwixt Lancaster and York : Then by Perkin VVarbeck , that counterfeited Richard Duke of York : And lastly , by the Cornish Rebels , wherein although the Citizens were grievously pinched with scarcity , yet continued they their faithful allegiance unto King Edward the sixth ; and at this day flourisheth in tranquility and wealth , being governed by a Major , twenty four Brethren , with a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and other Officers their Attendants . This Cities graduation is set in the degree of Latitude from the North Pole 50 and 45 scruples : And for Longitude from the West , to the degree 16 , and 25 scruples . Neither is Ioseph that excellent Poet , whose birth was in this City , the least of her Ornaments , whose Writings bear so great credit , that they were divulged in the German Language under the name of Cornelius Nepos . The like credit got Crediton in her birth child VVinifred the Apostle of the Hassians , Thuringers , and Frisians of Germany , which were converted by him unto Gospel and knowledge of Christ. ( 7 ) Places memorable in this County remaining for signs of Battles , or other antiquities , are these : Upon Exmore certain Monuments of Antick-work are erected , which are stones pitched in order , some Triangle-wise , and some in round compass : These no doubt were trophies of Victories there obtained , either by the Romans , Saxons , or Danes , and with Danish Letters one of them is inscribed , giving direction to such as should travel that way . Hublestowe likewise near unto the mouth of ●awe , was the burial place of Huba the Dane , who with his Brother Hungar , had harried the English in divers parts of the Land : But lastly , was there encountred with , and slain by this Shires Inhabitants , and under a heap of copped stones interred , and the Banner Reasen there and then taken , that had so often been spread in the Danes quarrel , and wherein they reposed no small confidence for success . ( 8 ) A double dignity remaineth in this County , where Princes of State have born the Titles both of Devon-shire and Excester : of which City , there have been entituled Dukes , the last of whom , namely , Henry Holland , Grand-child to Iohn Holland , half-brother to King Richard the Second ; siding with Lancaster against Edward the fourth , whose Sister was his wife , was driven to such misery , as Philip Comineus repotteth , that he was seen all torn and bare-footed to beg his living in the Low Countries : And lastly , his body was cast upon the shore of Kent ( as if he had perished by ship-wrack ) so certain is Fortune in her endowments , and the state of man , notwithstanding his great birth . ( 9 ) Religious Houses in this Shire built in devotion , and for Idolatry pulled down , were at Excester , Torhay , Tanton , Tavestokes , Kirton , Hartland , Axminster , and Berstuble . ( 10 ) And the Counties divisions are parted into thirty three Hundreds , wherein are seated thirty seven Market-Towns , and three hundred ninety four Parish-Churches . Cornwaile map of Cornwall CORNVVALL . CHAPTER X. CORNWALL ( as Matthew of Winchester affirmeth ) is so named partly from the form , and partly from her people : for shooting it self into the Sea like an Horn ( which the Britains call K●rne ) and inhabited by them whom the Saxons named Wallia ; of these two compounded words it became Cornwallia . Not to trouble the Reader with the Fable of Corinnus cousin to King Brute , who in free gift received this County in reward of his prowess , for wrestling with the Giant Gogmagog , and breaking his neck from the Cliffe of Dover , as he of Monmouth hath fabuled . ( 2 ) Touching the temperature of this County , the Air thereof is cleansed as with Bellowes , by the Billowes that ever work from off her environing Seas , where thorow it becometh pure and subtile , and is made thereby very healthful , but withall so piercing and sharp , that it is apter to preserve than to recover health . The Spring is not so early as in more Eastern parts ; yet the Summer with a temperate heat recompenseth his ●low fostering of the fruits with their most kindly ripening . The Autumne bringeth a somewhat late Harvest : and the Winter , by reason of the Seas warm breath , maketh the cold milder than else-where . Notwithstanding that Countrey is much subject to stormy b●asts , whose violence hath freedome from the open waves , to beat upon the dwellers at Land , leaving many times their houses uncovered . ( 3 ) The Soyl for the most part is lifted up into many hills , parted asunder with narrow and short val●●es , and a shallow earth doth cover their outside , which by a Sea weed called Orewood , and a certain kind of fr●●sul Sea-sand , they make so rank and batten , as is uncredible . But more are the riches that out of those hills are gotten from the Mines of Copper and Tinn ; which Countrey was the first , and continueth the best stored in that merchandize , of any in the world . Timaeus the Historian in Pliny reporteth , that the Britains fetched their Tinn in Wicker boats , stitched about with Leather . And Diodorus Siculus of Augustus Caesars time writeth , that the Britains in this part digged Tin out of stony ground , which by Merchants was carried into Gallia , and thence to Narborne , as it were to a Mart. Which howsoever the English Saxons neglected , yet the Normans made great benefit thereof , especially Richard brother to King Henry the third , who was Earl of Cornwall , and by those Tinn-works became exceedingly rich : for the incursions of the Moores having stopped up the Tinn-Mines in Spain , and them in Germany not discovered before the year of Christ 1240. these in Cornwall supplyed the want in all parts of the world . This Earl made certain Tinn-Laws which with liberties and priviledges were confirmed by Earl Edmund his son . And in the days of King Edward the third , the Common-weale of Tinn-works from one body was divided into four , and a Lord Warden of the Stanniers appointed their Iudge . ( 4 ) The Borders of this Shire on all parts but the East , is bound in with the Sea : and had Tamer drawn his course but four miles further to the North , betwixt this County and Devonshire , it might have been rather accounted an Island , than stood with the Mayne . Her length is from Launston to the Lands-end , containing by measure 60 miles : and the broadest part stretching along by the Tamer , is fully forty , lessening thence still lesser like a horn . ( 5 ) The Antient inhabitants known to the Romans , were the Danmonii , that spread themselves further into Devon-shire also , by the report of Diodorus Sicul●● , a most courteous and civil people : and by Michael their Poet extolled for valour and strength of limbs : nor therein doth he take the liberty that Poets are allowed , to add to the subject whreof they write , but truly repotteth what we see by them performed , who in activity surmount many other people . When the Heathen Saxons had seated themselves in the best of this Land , and forced the Christian Britains into these rocky parts , then did Cornwall abound in Saints , unto whose honour most of the Churches were erected , by whose names they are yet known and called . To speak nothing of Visula that Counties Dukes daughter , with her company of canonized Virgin-Saints , that are now reputed but to trouble the Calender . These Britains in Cornwall so fenced the Countrey , and defended themselves , that to the reign of Athelsta●e they held out against the Saxons , who subduing those Western Parts , made Tamer the Bounder betwixt them and his English , whose last Earl of the British Bloud was called Candorus . ( 6 ) But William the Bastard created Robert ( his half-brother by Herlotta their mother ) the first Earl of the Normans race : and Edward the Black Prince , the ninth from him , was by his Father King Edward the third invested the first Duke of Cornwall , which Title ever since hath continued in the Crown . ( 7 ) The Commodities of this Shire , ministred both by Sea and Soile , are many and and great ; for besides the abundance of Fish , that do suffice the Inhabitants , the Pilchard is taken , who in great shuls swarm about the Coast , whence being transported to France , Spain , and Italy , yield a yearly revenue of gain unto Cornwall : wherein also Copper and Tinn so plentifully grow in the utmost part of this Promontory , that at a low water the veins thereof lie bare , and are seen : and what gain that commodity begets , is vulgarly known . Neither are these Rocks destitute of Gold nor Silver , yea and Diamonds shaped and pointed Angle wise , and smoothed by Nature her self , whereof some are as big as Wallnuts , inferiour to the Orient only in blackness and hardness . Many are the Ports , Bayes , and Havens that open into this Shire , both safe for arrivage , and commodious transport ; whereof Falmouth is so copious , that an hundred Ships may therein ride at Anchor apart by themselves , so that from the tops of their highest Masts , they shall not see each other , and lie most safely under the Winds . ( 8 ) This County is fruitful in Corn , Cattle , Sea-fish , and Fowl : all which , with other provision for pleasures and life , are traded thorow twenty two Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Lauston and Bodman are the best ; from which last , being the middle of the Shire , the Pole is elevated to the degree of Latitude 50 , 35 minutes , and for Longitude from the first West-Point 15 , 13 minutes , as Mercat●r hath measured them . ( 9 ) Memorable matters both for antiquity and strangeness of sight , are these ; At Boskenna upon the South west of her Promontory , is a trophy erected , which are eighteen Stones placed round in compass , and pitched twelve foot each from others , with another far bigger in the very center : These do shew some victory there attained , either by the Roman , or else King Athelstan . At the foot of the Rock near unto S. Michaels M●●nt , in the memory of our Fathers , were digged up Spear-heads , Axes , and Swords of Brass , wrapped in linen , the weapons that the Cimbrians and ancient Britains anciently used . At Camelford likewise pieces of Armours both for horse and man , are many times found in digging of the ground , imputed to the signs of that fight wherein Mordred was slain , and wherein great Arthur received his deaths wound . And at Castle Dennys are the Trenches wherein the Danes lodged when they first minded to subdue the Land. In the Parish S. Clare , two stones are pitched , one of them inscribed with a strange Character , and the other called The other half stone . The Hurlers also , fabuled to be men metamorphosed into stones ; but in truth shew a note of some victory , or else are so set for Land-marks Bounders . There also the Wring-Cheese doth shew it self , which a●e huge Rocks heaped one upon another , and the lowest of them the least , fashioned like a Cheese , l●ing pressed under the rest of those Hills , which seem●th very dangerous to be passed under . But near to Pensans , and unto Mounts bay , a far more strange Rock standeth , namely , Main-Amber , which lyeth mounted upon others of meaner size , with so equal a counterpoize , that a man may move it with the push of his finger , but no strength remove it out of its place . ( 10 ) Religious Houses built , and suppressed within the limits of Cornwall , the fairest and greatest for account , were Launston , S. Neotes , S Buriens , S. Michaels Mount , and S. Germains , a Bishops See : so was Pedman also , from whence King Edward the Confessor removed it unto the City of Excester . ( 11 ) The division of this Shire is into nine hundreds , wherein are seated twenty two Market-Towns , and 161 Parish-Churches . SOMERSET SHIRE Petrus Kaerius caelavit . map of Somersetshire SOMMERSET-SHIRE . CHAPTER XI . SOMMERSET-SHIRE is both a rich and spacious Countrey , having the Sever● Sea beating upon it on the North side , the South part bordering upon Devon and Dorset-shires , the West confined with Devon shire , and the East and North-East upon Wilt shire , and Gloucester shire . It took the name of Sommerron ( sometime the chief Town of this Shire ) whence in the Ancient Historian Asserius , this County is called Sommertunensis , that is , Sommertun-shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is large , bearing it self still wider as it slretcheth into the middle part thereof , and contains in length from Brackley near unto Frome Selwood Eastward , to Oure in the West , Miles 55. In breadth from Parshut Point in the North , to Chard Southward , is somewhat above forty miles . The whole ciacumference is about 204 miles . ( 3 ) The Air is milde and pleasing , and for the most part subject to such temperate dispositions as the Sommer-season affordeth , whence some have erroniously conceited , that the Region borrowed her name from the nature of her Clime : yet how delightful soever it is in the time of Summer , with change of the season it may well change her pleasing name , and borrow some Winterly denomination ; so full of wet , so miry and moorish it is ; in so much as the Inhabitants can hardly travel to and fro without their encumbrance . ( 4 ) Howbeit they pass over this with all patience , knowing their ensuing seasonable profits far to exceed any present detriments and displeasures : for as it is fowl , so it is fruitful , which makes them comfort themselves with this Proverb , that What is worst for the Rider , is best for the ●bider : the Soyl and Glebe thereof being very fertile , and every side garnished with Pastures and delightful Meadows , and beautified with Mannor houses both many and fair ; and ( in a word ) hath every thing in it to content the purse , the heart , the eye , at home : and sufficient ports to give entertainment to commodities from abroad . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants that possessed this Province were the Belgae , who spread themselves far and wide , as well here as in Wilt-shire , and the inner parts of Hant-shire , who being branched from the Germans , conferred the names of those places from whence they came , upon these their seats where they resided . ( 6 ) The general profits of this province are Corn and Cattle , wherewith it is so plentifully stored , as it may challenge any neighbouring County for the quantity to make shew of Cattle so fat , or Grain so rich . Some places are peculiarly enriched by Lead-mines , as Mindiphils , ( perchance so called of the deep Mines ) by Leiland aptly termed Minerarii , Mineral-hills , which yield plenty of Lead , the most Merchantable Commodity that is in England , and vented into all parts of the world . Some are beautified with Diamonds , as S , Vincent Rock , whereof there is great plenty , and so bright of colour , as they might equalize Indian Diamonds , if they had their hardness : yet being so many , and so common , they are less sought after or commended . ( 7 ) This Countrey is famoused by three Cities , Bath , Wells , and Bristow . The first takes name of the hot Bathes , which Antonine called Aquae Solis , The waters of the Sun ; Stephanus , Badiza : we at this day Bathe , and the Latinists Bathonta : a place of continual concourse for persons of all degrees , and almost of all diseases , ( weence it was sometimes called Akemancester ) who by divine providence do very often find relief there , the Springs thereof by reason of their Mineral and sulphurous passage , being of such exceeding power and medicinable heat , as that they cure and conquer the rebellious stubbornness of corrupt humours , in repect of which admirable vertues , some have fabled , that they were first conveyed by Magick Art. To testifie the antiquity of this place , many images and Roman Inscriptions are found in the walls , which can now be hardly read , they are so worn and eaten into by age . Wells ( as Leiland reporteth ) was sometimes called Theoderodunum , but from whence it had that denomination he makes no mention , the name it now beareth is taken ( as some think ) from the River there , which King Kinewulph in his Charter Anno 766 calleth Wel●e , or ( as others ) from the Wells or Springs which there break forth , and whereupon that See ( under whose Iurisdiction is also the City of Bath ) hath been anciently called Fontanensis Eccle●● , the Fountain Church : where the Cathedral built by King Inas to the memory of S Andrew , is very beautiful and richly endowed . The City is likewise well replenished both with Inhabitants and seemly buildings . Whose government is managed by a Mayor yearly elected , a Recorder , and seven Masters , having the Assistancs of sixteen Burgesses , a Town-Clerk , and Two Sergeants at Mace. Whose Latitude is 51 , 20 minutes , and Longitude 17 , 31 minutes . Bristow is not so ancient , as it is fair and well seated : The beauty of it being such , as for the bigness thereof , it scarce gives place to any City of England , and doth worthily deserve the Saxons name Bright-stad : whose pleasantness is the more , by reason that the River Avon scowres through the midst of it , which together with the benefit of Sewers under all the streets clears the City of all noysome filth and uncleanness . It is not wholly seated in this County of Sommerset , but one part thereof in Gloucestershire ; but because it is an entire County of it self , it denies subjection unto either , having for its own government both a Bishop , with a well furnished Colledge , and a Mayor , with a competent assistance of Aldermen , and other Officers for civil affairs . ( 8 ) This Province hath been the Theater of many Tragical events and bloudy battels : the Danes did grievously afflict Porlock by cruel Piracies , in the year eight hundred eighty six . Yet neer unto Pen a little Village neigbouring upon North Cadbury , Edmund , sirnamed Iron-side , gave them a notable foyle , as he was pursuing Canutus from place , to place , for usurping the Crown of England . And Keniwach ( a West-Saxon ) in the same place had such a day against the Britains , that they ever after stood in awe of the English-Saxons prowess . Marianus relateth that not far from Bridge-water , as the Danes were stragling abroad , Ealstane Bishop of Sherbourne did so soyl their Forces in the year 845 , as their minds were much discomfited , and their powers utterly disabled . Ninius also writeth that King Arthur did so defeat the English-Saxons in a battel at Cadbury , that it deserved to be made perpetuously memorable . Neither is Mons Badonicus ( now Banesdown ) less famous for Arthurs victories . And King Elfred in another battel not far from hence gave the Danes such an overthrow , as he forced them to submission , and induced Godrus their King to become a Christian , himself being Godfather to him at the Font. So happy is this Region , and so beholding to Nature and Art for her strengths and fortifications , as she hath a●ways been able to defend her self , and offend her enemies . ( 9 ) Neither hath it been less honoured with beauteous houses consecrated to Religion : such was that of Black Ohanons at Barelinch in the first limit of his Shire Westward : and King Athelsta● built a Monastery in an Island called Muchelney ( that is to say ) the great Island , which is between the Rivers Iuel and Pedred , running together , where the defaced wall● and runs thereof are yet to be seen . King Henry the third also erected a Nunnery at Witham , which was afterwards the first house of the Carthusians Monks in England , as Hinton not far off was the second . But above all other fo● antiquity , glory , and beauty was the Abby of Glostenbury , whose beginning is fetcht even from Ioseph of Arimathea , which Davi Bishop of S. Davids repaired , being fallen to ruine , and King Inas lastly builded a fair and stately Church in this Monastery , though it be now made even with the ground , the ruins only shewing how great and magnificent a Seat it hath anciently been ; which several houses were thus beautified by bounteous Princes , for religious purposes , and to retire the mind from worldly services , though blinded times and guides diverted them to superstitious and lewd abuses . ( 10 ) Other memorable places are these : Camalet a very steep hill hard to be ascended , which appears to have been a work of the Romans by divers Coins dig'd up there , on the top whereof are seen the lineaments of a large and ancient Castle , which the Inhabitants report to have been the Palace of King Arthur . Ilchester , which at the coming of the Normans was so populous , that it had in it an hundred and seven Burgesses , and it appears to be of great antiquity , by the Roman Caesars Coyns , oftentimes found there . The Church-yard of Avalenia or Glastonbury , where King Arthurs Sepulchre was searcht for by the command of King Henry the second , which was found under a stone , with an Inscription upon it faftned , almost nine foot in the ground . Also Du●stere , where ( as is reported ) a great Lady obtained of her husband so much Pasture ground in a Common by the Town side , for the good and benefit of the Inhabitants , as she was able in a whole day to go about bare-foot . This County is divided into 42 Hundreds , for the disposing of business needful for the State thereof , wherein are placed 33 Market-Towns , fit for buying and selling , and other affairs of Commerce . It is fortified with four Castles , and planted with 385 Parishes , for concourse of Divine Service . WILT SHIRE map of Wiltshire VVILT-SHIRE . CHAPTER XII . WILT-SHIRE , is enclosed upon the North with Gloucester-Shire , upon the East is bounded with B●rk-shire , upon the South with Dorset and Hamp-shire , and upon the West is confronted against partly by Gloucester , and the rest by Somerset-shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is both long and broad ; for from Inglesham upon Thamisis in the North , to Burgat Damarum in the South , are thirty miles ; the broadest part is from Buttermer Eastward , to the Shire-stones in the West , being tweuty nine ; the whole in Circumference , is one hundred thirty nine miles . ( 3 ) For Air , it is feated in a temperate Climate , both sweet , pleasant , and wholesome ; and for soil ( saith Iohn of Sarisbury ) is exceeding fortile and plentiful , yea , and that with variety . ( 4 ) The Northern part which they call North-Wilt shire , riseth up into delectable hills , attired with large Woods , and watered with clear Rivers , whereof Isis is one , which soon becometh the most famous in the Land. The South part is more even , yielding abundantly Grass and Corn ; and is made the more fruitful by the Rivers Wily , Adder , and Avon . The midst of this County is most plain , and thereby is known and commonly called Salesbnry Plaines ; and lie so level indeed , that it doth limit the Horizon ; for hardly can a man see from the one side to the other . These Plaines grase an infinite number of sheep , whose fleeces and flesh bring in a yearly revenue to their owners . ( 5 ) Anciently this County was possessed by the Belgae , who are seated by Ptolomy in Hamp-shire , Sommerset shire , and in this Tract ; and they ( as it seemeth by Caesar ) were of the Belgae in Gaul . These ( as some hold ) were subdued by Vespatian , Lieutenant of the second Legion under Claudi● , when the foundation of his future greatness was in these parts first laid by his many Victories over the Britains . And herein surely the Romans seated ; for besides Ta●esbury Trench , by Tradition held to be his , in many other Forts in this Shire the Tract of their Footing hath been left , and the stamped Coins of their Emperours found , and apparent testimony of their abode . ( 6 ) After them the West-Saxons made it a part of their Kingdom , whose border was Avon , as witnesseth Athelward though the Marcians many times encroched upon them , whereby many great Battles , as Malmesbury tells us , betwixt them were fought , when in the young years of their Heptarchie each sought to enlarge his , by the lessoning of the next : but grown unto more ripeness , they assigned their limits by a great and long ditch crossing thorow the midst of these Plaines , which for the wonder thereof is supposed by the vulgar to be the work of the Devil , and is called of all , Wansdike , undoubtedly of Wooden , the Saxons Ancester and great reputed God , where a little Village yet standeth , and retaineth to name Woodens-burg . At this place , in Anno 590 , Cea●lin the West-Saxon , received such a foyl of the Britains and his Countrey-men , that he was forced to sorfake his Kingdom , and to end his days in exile , becoming a pitiful spectacle even unto his own enemies . And in this place Ina the West-Saxon joyned Battle with Ceolred the Mercian , whence both of them departed with equal loss . The like was at Bradford by Kenilwalch and Cuthred ; at Wilton betwixt Egbert and Beornwolfe ; at Edindon where King Elfred was vanquisher of the Danes ; and at wilton , where the Danes won the day against him . With as bloudy success , though not happening by sword , was the issue of that Synod assembled at Calne , a small town in this County , in the year of Christ Iesus 977 , where being hotly debating for the single life , and against the marriages of the Clergy , what wanted by the word to prove their divorce , was supplyed by a Stratagem , and that very bloody ; for suddenly the main timber brake , and down fell the floor with the Nobles and Prelates , the Gentlemen and Commons , whereby a great number were hurt , and many more slain ; onely Dunstan the Prefident , and mouth for the Monks escaped untouched , the Ioist whereon his Chair stood remaining most firm : which confirmed the sentence of their separations , whom God had conjoyned , and became the fall and snare of much incontinency in both sexes . ( 7 ) The chiefest City of this Shire is Salesbury , removed from a higher , but a far more convenient place ; whose want of Water was not so great in the mother , as is supplied and replenished in the daughter , every street almost having a River running thorow her middest ; and for sumptuous and delicate buildings is inferiour to none . The Cathedral , a most rich magnificent Church , was begun by Richard Poors , Bishop , and with fourty years continuance was raised to her perfect beauty : wherein are as many windows as there are days in the year , as many cast Pillars of Marble , as there are hours in the year , and as many gates for entrance as there are Months in the year . Neither doth this City retain true honour to her self , but imparteth hers , and receiveth honour from others , who are intituled Earls of Salesbury , whereof eight Noble Families have been dignified ●ince the Normans Conquest . This Cities situation is in degree , of Latitude 51 10 minutes , and from the first West point observed by Mercator , 18 Degrees , and 31 Minutes of Longitude . ( 8 ) Over this , old Salesby sheweth it self , where Kenrick over came the Britains , and where C●nutus the Dana did great damage by fire . This formerly had been the seat of the Romans : as likewise was Lecham , as by their Coins digged up is apparent : so were Brokenbridge and Cosham , the Courts of the Saxon Kings . But Fortune long since hath turned her face from all these , as lately she did from many ancient and religious foundations planted in this Province , whereof Malmesbury , was the most famous . I will not with Monmouth avouch the foundation thereof unto Malmutius , but by true Records from Maidulph a Scot , a man of great learning that therein built a Coll , and led an Hermits life , whereof Beda calleth it the City of Maidulph , and we by contraction Malmesbury . Adelme his Disciple and Successor , built here a fair Monastery , which Athelstane the Monarch richly endowed , and left his body after death there to rest . Neither hath any graced this more than William her Monk , in recording to post●rities the Chronicles of our Land , concerning both the Church and Common-weal , wherein himself lived and worte those Histories . ( 9 ) Ambresbury for repute did second this , built by Alfritha King Edgar his wife , to expiate the sin of murder which she committed upon young Edward her son in law , that hers might be King. In this place Queen El●anor widow to King Henry the Third , renounced all Royal pomp , and devoted her self unto God in the habit of a Nun. Other places erected for piety , were at Salesbury , Lacock , Stanley , Wilton , Ivichurch , Parnleg , Bradstoks , Briopune , and Bromhore . These graffs grown to full greatness , were cut down by the Pruiner , least the cankers thereof should infect the whole body ( as by them was alledged ) and their Revenues bestowed upon far better uses , both for the bringing up of youth , and the Maintenance of estate . ( 10 ) With eight strong Castles this County hath been guarded ; in nineteen Market-Towns her commodities are traded ; into twenty nine Hundreds for business is divided , and in them are seated three hundred and four Parish-Churches . BARKSHIRE map of Berkshire BARK-SHIRE . CHAPTER XIII . BARK-SHIRE , whether of the Box woods there sited , according to the censure of Asseriu● Menevensis , or from a naked and bear less Oak-tree , whereunto the people usually resorted in troublesome times , to confer for the State , I determine not : only the County a long time hath been so called , and bounded with other in manner as followeth : The North part is parted by Thamisis from Buckingham and Oxford Shires ; the South near Kenne● , doth tract upon Hamp-shire ; the East is confined with the County of Surrey ; and the West with VVilt-shire and Glocester-shire is held in . ( 2 ) The form of this Shire doth somewhat resemble a Sandall for a mans foot , lying long wise from East to West , in which part she is broadest , the middle most narrow , and then spreading wider like to the heel : though for her rich endowments and stately magnificence , it may be well accounted the heart of the whole . ( 3 ) The length thereof from Inglesham in the West , to old VVindsor in the East , extendeth unto forty miles ; from Ink-pen to VVightham , the broadest part from South to North , are twenty four ; the whole in Circumference , about one hundred and twenty miles . ( 4 ) The Air is temperate , sweet , and delightful , and prospect for pleasure inferiour to none ; the Soyl is plenteous of Corn , especially in the Vale of VVhite-horse , that yieldeth yearly an admirable encrease . In a word , for Corn , and Cattle , Waters , and Woods , of profit and pleasure , it gives place unto none . ( 5 ) Her ancient inhabitants , by Ptolomy and Caesar , were the Attrebatii , and them of those that descended from Gallia , among whom Comiu● ( conquered by the Dictator ) was of good respect , and could do much with the 〈◊〉 , who ( as Frontinus reporteth ) used this stratagem , though it proved nothing at last : he flyed before Caesar to recover aid of these Attrebatians , light bedded upon a shelf in the Sea , whereupon hoysting his ●ailes as before a fore-wind , gave shew to his pursuer that they were in swift flight ; so that hopeless to hail them , he gave over the chase ; yet no sooner had Caesar made over among them , but that some of these people , by the name Bibrotes , yielded him subjection , which proved the ruine of all former liberty . But when the Romans had rent their own Empire , and retired their Legion into a narrower circuit , the Saxons set foot where their forces had been , and made this County a parcel of their Western Kingdom . The Danes then setting their desire upon spoils , from their roaving Pinnaces pierced into these parts , and at Redding fortified themselves betwixt the Rivers Kennet a●d Thamisis , whether after their great overthrow received at Inglefield by the hand of King Ethelwolfe , they retired for their further safety . ( 6 ) This Town King Henry the first most stately beautified with a rich Monastery and strong Castle , where in the Collegiate Chuch of the Abbey , himself and Queen ( who lay both vailed and crowned ) with the daughter Maud the Empress , called the Lady of England , were interred , as the private History of the place avoucheth , though others bestow the bodies of these two Queens elsewhere . The Castle King Henry the second razed to the ground , because it was the refuge for the followers of King Stephen . From whence the North pole is raised in Latitude 51 degrees and 40 minutes , and in Longitude from the first West-point observed by Mercator 19 degrees and 35 minutes . ( 7 ) A Castle and Town of greater strength and antiquity was Wallingford , by Autonie and Ptolomy called Gellena , the chiefest City of the Attrebatians , whose large circuit , and strong fortifications , shew plainly that it was a place of the Romans abode , and since in a conceived safety hath made many very bold , especially when the sparks of Englands civil dissentions were forced to flame in case of the Crown betwixt Maud the Empress and King Stephen , whether her self and associates resorted as their surest defence . ( 8 ) But of far greater magnificence and state is the Castle of Windsor , a most Princely Palace and Mansion of His Majesty . I will not with Ieffery affirm it to be built by King Arthur , but with better authority say , it was so thirsted after-by the Conquerour , that by a composition with the Abbot of Westminster , whose then it was , he made it to be the Kings possesson , as a place , besides the pleasures , very commodious to entertain the King. In this Castle that victorious Prince King Edward the third was born , and herein after he had subdued the French and Scots , held he at one and the same time , as his Prisoners , Iohn King of France , and David King of Scotland . Neither was it ever graced with greater Majesty than by the institution of the most honourable Order of the Garter , a signal Ornament of Martial Prowesse ; the invention thereof some ascribe to be from a Garter falling from his Queen , or rather from Ioan Countess of Salisbury , a Lady of an incomperable beauty , as she danced before him ; whereat the by-standers smiling , he gave the impress to check all evil conceits , and in golden Letters imbellished the Garter with this French Posie , HONI SO●● QU● MALY PENSE . And yet that worthy Clarenceaux alledging the Book of the first institution , finds the invention to be more ancient ; as when King Richard the first warred against the Turks , Saracens , Cypres , and Acon , he girt the legs of certain choise Knights with a tack of leather , which promised a future glory to the wearers . The most Princely Chappel thereof is graced with the bodies of those two great Kings , Henry the sixth , and Edward the fourth , whom the whole Kingdom was too little to contain , the one of Lancaster , the other of York , where the rest now united in one mould , with a branch of both those Houses , even King Henry the eighth , who there lieth also interred , and rests in the Lord. ( 9 ) Other places of note in this Shire are Sinodum in the North , and Watham in the East , both of them places of the Romans residence , as by their moneys there oftentimes found appeareth . Neither was Sunning the least in this Tract , that had been the seat of eight Bishops before the See was translated thence unto Shirburne , or that to Salisbury . Wantage also is not wanting of honour , in bringing to life that learned and most valiant King Ealfred , the scourge of the Danes , and great Monarch of the English. And Finchhamstead for wonder inferiour to none , where ( as our Writers do witness ) that in the year , a thousand and hundred , a Well boyled up with streams of bloud , and fiftoen days together continued that Spring , whose waters made red all others where they came , to the great amazement of the beholders . ( 10 ) The riches and sweet Seats that this County affordeth , made many devout persons to shew their devotions unto true piety , in erecting places for Gods divine Service , and their exemptions from all worldly business : such were Abington , Redding , Bysham , Bromehall , Hendley , Hamme , and Wallingford , whose Votaries abusing the intents of their Founders , overthrew both their own Orders and places of professions ; all which were dissolved by Act of Parliament , and given the King to dispose at his will. This Shires division is into twenty Hundreds , and hath been strengthened with six strong Castles , is yet graced with three of His Majesties most Princely Houses , and traded with twelve Market-Towns , and is replenished with one hundred and forty Parishes . MIDLE-SEX map of Middlesex MIDDLESEX . CHAPTER XIV . MIDDLESEX , so called in regard of the situation as ●eated betwixt the West-Saxons and East-Angles , was sometimes together with Essex and Hartford-Shire , that part and portion which the East-Saxons enjoyed for their Kingdom : it lyeth bordered upon the North with Hartford-Shire , upon the West by Col●● , is severed from Buckingham ; the South , by Thamesis , from Surrey and Kent ; and on the East from Essex , by the River Lea. ( 2 ) The length thereof extended from Stratford in the East , to Morehall upon Colne in the West , is by measure nineteen English miles ; and from South-mines in the North , to his Majesties Mannour of Hampton Court in the South , are little above sixteen miles , the whole Circumference extending to ninety miles . ( 3 ) In Form it is almost square , for Air passing temperate , for Soyl abundantly fertile , and for Pasturage and Grain of all kinds , yielding the best , so that the Wheat of this County hath served a long time for the Manchet to our Princes Table . ( 4 ) It lyeth seated in a vale most wholesome and rich , having some hills also , and them of good ascent , from whose tops the prospect of the whole is seen like unto Z●ar in Egypt , or rather like a Paradise and Garden of God. ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants known to Caesar , were the Trinobants , whom he nameth to be the most puisiant in the Land ; whose chief City and ●eat yieldeth him subjection , made the whole , with less loss to the Romans , to bear the yoke of their own bondage , and to come in under terms of truce . But when their Forces in these parts were spent , and the Empire shaken by intestine wars , the Saxons setting their eyes upon so fair a soyl made their footing as sure herein ; which lastly with Hartford and Essex , was the portion of the East-Saxons Kingdom . ( 6 ) Five princely Houses , inheritable to the English Crown , are ●eated in this Shire , which are , Enfield , Hanworth , White-hall , S. Iames , and Hampton-Court , a City rather in shew than the Palace of a Prince , and for stately Port and gorgeous building , not inferiour to any in Europe . At Thistleworth once stood the Palace of King Richard of the Romans , Earl of Cornwall , which the Londoners in a tumultuous broile , burned to the ground , many other stately Houses of our English Nobility , Knights and Centlemen , as also of the Worshipful Citizens of London , are in this Shire so sumptuously built and pleasantly seated , as the like in the like circuit are no where else to be found . Near unto Thamesis entrance into this County , is kept the remembrance of Caesars entrance over Thamesis , by the name of Coway-stakes , stuck fast in the bottom to impeach his designs ; and further at Stanes a Maire-stone once stood for a mark of Iurisdiction , that London had so far upon Thame●is . ( 7 ) Which City is more ancient than any true Record beareth , fabuled from Brute , Troynovant , from Lud , Ludstone : But by more credible Writers , Tacitus , Ptolomy , and Antonine , Londinium ; by Ammianus Marcellinus for her successive prosperity , August● , the great title that can be given to any : by Britains Londayn ; by Strangers Londra ; and by us London . This City doth shew as the Cedars among other Trees , being the seat of the British Kings , the Chamber of the English , the model of the Land , and the Mart of the World : for thither are brought the silk of Asia , the Spices from Africa , the Balms from Grecia , and the riches of both the Indies East and West , no City standing so long in fame , nor any for divine and politick government may with her be compared . Her walls were first set by great Constantine the first Christian Emperour , at the suit of his Mother Queen Helen ▪ reared with rough Stone and British Brick three English miles in compass ; thorow which are now made seven most fair gates , besides three other passages for entrance . Along the Thame●is , this wall at first ranged , and with two gates opened● the one Doure-gate , now Dowgate , and the other Billingsgate , a receptacle for Ships . In the midst of this wall was set a mile-mark ( as the like was in Rome ) from whence , were measured their stations , for carriage or otherwise ; the same as yet standeth , and hath been long known by the name of London Stone . Upon the East of this City , the Church of S. Peters is thought to be the Cathedral of Restitut●● , the Christians Bishops See , who lived in the reign of great Constantine ; but since St. Pauls in the West part , from the Temple of Diana , assumed that dignity , whose greatness doth exceed any other at this day , and spires so high that twice it hath been consumed by lightning from heaven . Besides this Cathedral , God is honoured in one hundred twenty one Churches more in this City : that is , ninety six within the walls ; sixteen without , but within the Liberties ; and nine more in her Suburbs ; and in Fitz ▪ Stephens time , thirteen Convents of relgious Orders . It is divided into 26 Wards , governed by so many grave Aldermen , a Lord Major , and two Sheriffs , the yearly choice whereof was granted them by Patent from King Iohn , in whose time also a Bridge of stone was made over Thames , upon nineteen Arches , for length , breadth , beauty , and building , the like again not found in the World. ( 8 ) This London ( as it were ) disdaining bondage , hath set her self on each side , far without the walls , and hath le●t her West gate in the midst , from whence with continual buildings ( still affecting greatness ) she hath continued her streets unto a Kings Palace , and joyned a second City to her self , famous for the Seat and Sepulchre of our Kings ; and for the Gates of Iustice , that termly there are opened ; only once a Bishops See , whose title died with the man. No walls are set about this City , and those of London are left , to shew rather what it was , than what it is : Whose Citizens , as the Lacedemonians did , do impute their strength in their men , and not in their walls , how strong soever . Or else for their multitude , cannot be circulated , but ( as another Ierusalem ) is inhabited without walls , as Zachary said . The wealth of this City ( as Isa once speak of Nilus ) grows from the Revenues and Harvest of her South bounding Thames ; whose trafique for merchandizing , is like that of Tyrus , whereof Ezekiel speaks , and stands in abundance of Silver , Iron , Tinn , and Lead , &c. And for London her channel is navigable , straitned along with meadowing borders , until she taketh her full liberty in the German Seas . Upon this Thamesis the Ships of Tharsis seem to ride , and the Navy , that rightly is termed the Lady of the Sea , spreads her sail : Whence twice with lucky success hath been accomplished , the compassing of the universal Globe . This River , C●nutus laying siege against London , sought by digging to divert , and before him the Danes had done great harmes in the City , yet was their State recovered by King Elfred , and the River kept her old course notwithstanding that cost . In the times of the Normans , some civil broyles have been attempted in this City , as in the days of King Iohn , whereinto his Barons entred , and the Tower yielded unto Lewis . And again , Wa● Tyle● ▪ herein committed outragio●s cruelties , but was worthily struck down by the Major , and stain in Smithfield . This Cities graduation for Latitude is the degree 51 , 45 minutes , and in Longitude 20 degrees , 29 minutes . ( 9 ) In this County at Barnet , upon Easter-day , a bloudy battel was fought , betwixt Henry the sixt and Edward the fourth , wherein was slain one Marquess , one Earl , three Lords , and with them ten thousand Englishmen . ( 10 ) The division of this Shire is into seven hundreds , wherein are seated two Cities , four Market-Towns , and seventy three Parish Churches , besides them in London : where in the Church of Gray-●ry●rs , now called Christ-Chu●ch , three Queens lye interred , which were , Queen Margaret , the D. of Phil. the hardy , King of France , second wife to King Edward the first ; the second was Queen Isabel , wife to King Edward the second , and D. to Philip the fair King of France : and the third was Queen Ioan , their daughter , married to David King of Scotland . ESSEX COUNTY map of Essex ESSEX . CHAPTER XV. ESSEX , by the Normans , Excessa , and by the vulgar Essex , is a County large in compass , very populous , and nothing inferiour to the best of the Land. ( 2 ) The Form thereof is somewhat circular , excepting the East part , which shooteth her self with many Promontories into the Sea ; and from Horsey Island to Haidon in the West , ( the broadest part of the Shire ) are they by measure forty miles ; and the length from East Ham upon Thamesis in the South , to Sturmere upon the River Stow in the North , are thirty five miles ; the whole in circumference one hundred forty six miles . ( 3 ) It lyeth bounded upon the North , with Suffolk and Cambridge-Shires , upon the West with Hertford and Middlesex , upon the South by Thamesis is parted from Kent , and the East-side thereof is altogether washed with the German Seas . ( 4 ) The Air is temperate and pleasant , only towards the waters somewhat aguish : the soyl is rich and fruitful , though in some places sandy and barren ; yet so that it never frustrates the Husbandmans hopes , or fills not the hands of her Harvest-labourers : but in some part so fertile , that after three years glebe of Saffron , the Land for eighteen more , will yield plenty of Barley , without either dung or other fa●ning earth . ( 5 ) Her ancient inhabitants known to the Romans , were by Caesar called the Trinobants , of whom in the former Chapter we have spoken , and in our History shall speak more at large . But this name perished with the age of the Empire , the Saxons presently framed a new ; and with Hertford and Middlesex made it their East-Saxons Kingdom , until that Egb●rt bought this and the whole into an entire and absolute Monarchy : the Danes after them laid so ●ore for this Province , that at ●●●mfleet and Havenet ( now S●●bery ) they fortified most strongly ; and at Barklow , besides the hills mounted for their burials ) the Danewort with her red berries , so plentifully grow , that it is held and accounted to spring from the blood of the Danes which in that place was spilt , and the herb as yet is called from them the Danes-bloud ; neither yet were they quelled to surcease that quarrel ; but at Ashdowne abode the Iron side in ●ight , wherein so much blood of the English was spilt , that Canutus their King in remorse of conscience , built a Church in the place , to pacifie God for the sins of his people : but when the Normans had got the garland of the whole , many of the Nobles there seated themselves , whose posterities since , both there and else-where are spread further abroad in the Realm . ( 6 ) The Commodities that this shire yieldeth , are many and great , as of Woods , Corn , Cattle , Fish , Forrests , and Saffron ; which last groweth with such gain and increase upon her North parts , that from a split Clove much like unto Garlike , a white blewish Flower shortly springeth , from whence fillets of Saffron are gathered before the Sun , and dried , are sold as spice with great gain . From the Islands Canvey , Mersey , Horsey , Northly , Osey , Wallot , and Foulness , great store of Fish and Fowl are daily gotten : and so from their Cattle have they continual increase , which men and boys milk ; as well the Ewe as the Kin● ; whereof they make great and thick Cheese , sold abroad in the Land , much thereof transported unto other Countries . Their Oysters which we call Walfleet , the best in esteem , and are thought from Pliny to have been served in the Romans Kitchins . But least we should exceed measure in commending , or the people repose their trust in the soyl ; behold what God can do to frustrate both in a moment , and that by his meanest creatures : for in our age and remembrance , the year of Christ 158. an Army of Mice so over ran the Marshes in Dengey Hundred , near unto South minster in this County , that they shore the grass to the very roots , and so tainted the same with their venemous teeth , that a great Murtain fell upon the Cattle which grazed thereon , to the great losse of their owners . ( 7 ) The chiefest City for account at this day , in this Shire , is Colchester , b●ilt by Collus the Brittish Prince , one hundred twenty four years after the birth of our Saviour Christ ( if he of Monmouth say true ) wherein his son Lu●ius , Helena , and Constantine , the first Christian King , Empresse , and Emperour in the World , were born : which made Nech●m for Constantin● to sing as he did . From Colchester there ros● a Star , The Rayes whereof gave glorious light , Throughout the world in Climates far , Great Constantine , Romes Emperour bright . And the Romans to the great honour of Helena inscribed her , Piissima Venerabilis August● . But of these we shall be occasioned to speak more hereafter . This City is situated upon the South of the River Coln ; from whence it hath the name , and is walled about , raised upon a high Trench of earth , though now much decayed , having six gates of entrance , and three Posterns in the West wall , beside● nine Watch-Towers for defence , and containeth in compasse 1980 paces ; wherein stand eight fair Churches , and two other without the walls , for Gods divine service : S. Tenants , and the Black Fryers decayed in the Suburbs ; Mary Magdalens , the Nunnery , S. Iohns , and the Crouched Fryers , all suppressed : within towards the East is mounted an old Castle , and elder ruines upon a Trench containing two Acres of ground , whereas yet may be seen the provident care they had against all ensuing assaults . The trade of this Town standeth chiefly in making of Cloth and Bayes , with Saies and other like Stuffs daily invented ; a●d is governed by two Bayliffs , twelve Aldermen , all wearing Scarlet ; a Recorder , a Town Clerk , and four Sergeants at Mace. Whose position for Latitude is in the degree 52 , 14 minutes ; and for Longitude , in the degree 21 , and 50 minutes . ( 8 ) Places of Antiquity and memorable note in this County ; I observe the most Famous to be Camolodunum , by us Maldon , which was the Royal Seat of Cunobelin King of the Trinobants , as by his money therein minted appeareth , about the time of our Saviours birth ▪ which City afterwards Claudius won from the Britains , and therein placed a Colony of Souldiers , which were called Victri●●nsis . This City Queen Bodu● , in revenge of her wrongs razed to the ground , what time she stirred their people against Nero , with the slaughter of seventy thousand of the Romans . Of some later and lesser account was Itha●chester , now S. Peters upon the wall , where the Fortenses with their Captain kept , towards the declination of the Roman Empir● . In the East promontory in this County , in the Reign of Richard the second , the teeth of a Giant were found ( if they were not of an Elephant ) of a marvellous size ( saith Ralph Coggeshall ; ) and not far thence , in the reign of Elizabeth , more bones to the like wonder were digged up . ( 9 ) I purposely omit the message of a Pilgrim from S. Iohn Baptist , by whom he sent a Ring to King Edward Confessor ; for which cause his house took the name Havering ▪ seeing the Monks of those times made no great dainty daily to forge matter for their own advantage : who in this Shire so swarmed that they had houses erected at Waltham , Pritelewel , Tiltey , Dunmow , Lecy● , Hatfield-Peverel , Chelmesford , Cogg●shall , Maldon , Earls coln , Colchester , S. Osiths , Saffron-Walden , Hatfield-Bradock● , and more with great revenues thereto belonging , all which felt the Axes and Hammers of destruction , when the rest of such foundations fell under the flail of King Henry the Eighth , who with Hezekiah brake down all these Brazen Serpents . ( 10 ) This Shire is divided into 23 Hundreds , wherein are seated 21 Market-Towns , 5 Castles , 5 Havens , 2 of His Majesties Mannours , and 415 Parish-Churches . SVFFOLCK map of Suffolk SUFFOLK . CHAPTER XVI . SUFFOLK , in regard of them which were seated in Northfolk , is a County most plenteous and pleasant for habitation . It is seperated from Norfolk , by the Rivers of the lesser Ouse , and Waveney , whose heads meet almost in the midst of her Verge , and that very neer together , the one taking course East , and the other full West , upon which part Cambridge-shire doth wholly confront . The So●th side is severed by Stoure from Essex , and the East together washed with the German Seas . ( 2 ) The Air is good , sweet , and delectable , and in some parts , of some of our best Phy●icians , held to be the best in the Land : the soyl is rich , fruitful , and with all things well replenished ; in a word , nothing wanting for pleasure or profit . ( 3 ) The Form thereof is somewhat Cressant , shooting up narrower in the North , and spreading wider towards the South , whose broadest part is about twenty miles : but from East to West much more : for from Easton point ( the furthest of this Shire , yea of all Britain , into the Sea ) unto great Ouse River , her Western bounder , are forty five miles , and the whole in Circumference , about one hundred and forty six miles . ( 4 ) Anti●ntly this part of the Island was possessed by the Iceni , who as it seemeth by Tacitus , joyned in Amity with the Romans , a mighty people ( saith he ) and never shaken with wars before the reign of Claudius , but then by Ostorius very vanquished , though not without great slaughter of the Romans ; and in a battle against them , M. Ostorius the son of the General , won great honour in sa●ing of a Roman Citizens life ; so ready were they to give , and receive Honours to themselves , but sleightly to pass over , and to smother far greater exploits of the Britains : which notwithstanding long in these parts they could not do ; for the wrongs of the Icenians growing intollerable , who by the Roman Souldiers were put out of their rightful possessions , their Princes accounted no better than Slaves , and their Queen whipped in most ignominious manner ; under Bod●a they wrought their revenge , as in the History ( Christ assisting ) shall be further related . Next to these Icenians , were the Saxons that got their footing into these parts , and of them , this with Norfolk , Cambridge-shire , and the Isle of Ely , was made their East-Angles Kingdom ; though as it seemeth ever in subjection , either to the Mercians , or to the Kings of Kent ; whose off-spring ending in S. Edmund the Martyr , after the Danes had laid it most desolate , Edward the Elder subdued it unto his West-Saxons Monarchy : and that likewise ending in King Edward the Confessor , many Noble Normans got their possessions in these parts , whose off-spring are plenteously replenished in this Shire to this day . ( 5 ) The Commodities of this Shire are many and great , Whereof the chiefest consisteth in Corn , Cattle , Cloth , Pasturage , Woods , Sea-fish and Fowl ; and as Abba Floriensis hath depainted , this County is of a green and passing fresh hue , pleasantly replenished with Orchards , Gardens and Groves : thus he described it above six hundred years since , and now we find as he hath said , to which we may add their gain from the Pail , whose Cheeses are traded not only throughout England , but into Germany , France , and Spain , and are highly commended by Pantaleon the Physitian , both for colour and taste . ( 6 ) And had Ipswi●h ( the onely eye of this Shire ) been as fortunate in her Sirname , as she is blessed with commerce and buildings , she might worthily have born the title of a City : neither ranked in the lowest row , whose trade , circuit , and seat , doth equal most places of the Land besides . It seemeth this Town hath been walled about both by a Rampire of Earth , mounted along her North and West parts , and places of entrance where Gates have stood ; which no doubt , by the Danes were cast down , in the year of Iesus Christ , ●991 . when they sacked with spoyl all these Sea coasts : and again in the year one thousand , laid the streets desolate , and the houses on heaps : yet afterwards recovering both breath and beauty , her buildings from Stoke-Church in the South , to Saint Margarets in the North , now contain 1900 paces , and from S. Helens in the East , to S. Matthews Church in the West , are no less than 2120 full of streets plenteously inhabited , wherein are twelve Parish-Churches seated , besides them suppressed ; such were Christ-Church , S. Georges , S. Iames , the White , the Black , and Gray-Fryers . The Site of this Town is removed from the Equator , unto the degree 52 , 25 minutes : and by Mercators observation , from the first West-points , 22 degrees , 9 minutes : and is yearly governed by two Bayliffs , and ten Port-men , all wearing Scarlet , with twenty four of t●eir Common-Councel in Purple , a Recorder , a Town-Clerk , five Serjeants , whereof one is for the Admiralty , a Beadle , and Common Cryer , all in blew , with the Towns Arms on their sleeves . The other eye of this Shire is S. Edmundsbury . By Abbo the Royal-Town , wherein at the day-break of the Saxons conversion , Sigebert King of the East-Angles sounded a Christian Church : and upon the occasion of King Edmunds burial ( who at Hoxon was shot to death ) hath been ever since called S. Edmundsbury , where was built to his honour one of the fairest Monasteries in the world , begun by King Canute , much affrighted with the seeming appearance of that Martyrs Ghost , who to expiate the sacrilegious impiety of his Father Suenus , enriched the place with many endowments , and offered up his own Crown upon the Holy Martyrs Tomb. For the beauty and buildings of this Abby and Town , let Leyland for me declare : The Sun ( saith he ) hath not seen a City more finely seated , so delicately , upon the easie ascent of an hill , with a River running on the East side ; nor a more stately Abby , either for revenues or incomperable magnificence , in whose prospect appeareth rather a City than a Monastery , so many Gates for entrance , and some of them brass , so many Towers , and a most glorious Church , upon which attend three others , standing all in the same Church-yard , all of them passing fine , and of a curious workmanship . Whose ruines lie in the dust , lamenting their fall , moving the beholders to pity their case . Near unto this Town a great battle was fought by Robert Bossu , Earl of Leicester , against his Soveraign King Henry the second : but was worthily overcome by Richard Lucy , the Kings high Iustice , himself and wife taken , with many Flemings and Englishmen slain . ( 7 ) Other places worthy of remembrance this County affords ; such is Exning in the West , formerly famous for the birth of S. Audr●y , daughter to King Anna , one of the three names of the Shires division : Renlisham in the East , where Redwald the First Christian in this Kingdom held his Court : and Hadley in her South , where Guthrum the Dane , whom Elfred baptized , was buried . And things of stranger note are the limits of the East-Angles Territories , running along New-market-Heath , vulgarly called the Devils-ditch : the like fable is formerly told by Nubrigensis , that at Wulpes in the heart of this Shire , two green boyes of Satyres kind arose out of the ground , from the Antipodes ; believe it if you will : and Ralfe Coggeshall , in the Monuments of Colchester , declareth , that a Fish in all parts like a man was taken near Oxford , and for six months was kept in the Castle , whence after he escaped again to the Sea , As strange , but most true , was a crop of Pease , that without tillage or sowing grew in the Rocks , betwixt this Oxford and Aldebrough , in the year 1555 , when by unseasonable weather a great dearth was in the Land ; there in August were gathered above one hundred Quarters , and in blossoming remained as many more , where never grass grew , or earth ever seen , but hard solid Rocks , three yards deep under their roots . ( 8 ) Places separated from common use , and devoted to God and his service by religious Princes , were at S. Edmunds , Ipswich , Ikleworth , Blithborow , Clare , Ieston , Burgh Castle , wherein Sigebert King of the East Angles entered the profession of a Monk : but was thence forced by his people , to fight against the Mercians : in which Battle he was slain . And Dunwich , where Foelix founded his Episcopal See. These with many others in this County were suppressed in the fall of the Monasteries , and their Revenues assumed by King Henry the Eighth . ( 9 ) This Shire is principally divided into three parts , which are called Celdable , S. Edmunds , and S. Andreys Liberties , subdivided into twenty two Hundreds , and them again into 575 Parish-Churches , wherein are seated seven Castles , and twenty eight Market-Towns . NORFOLCKE map of Norfolk NORTHFOLK . CHAPTER XVII . NORTHFOLK is an Island inclining to an oval form , closed on the South part with the Rivers of Wavenay , and the lesser Ouse , which divides it from Suffolk . On the East and North with the German Ocean ; on the West toward Cambridge-shires , with some branches of the greater Ouse ; toward Lincolis-shire , with that part of the Neve which passeth from Wisbitch into the Washes . It containeth in length ( from Tarmouth to Wifbitch ) about fifty miles . In breadth ( from The●ford to Wells ) about thirty . The whole Circuit is about two hundred forty two miles . The Name ariseth from the situation of the people , who being the Norther-most of the Kingdom of East-Angles , are therefore called the Northfolk , as the Souther-most Southfolk . The Air is sharp and piercing , especially the Champion and near the Sea ; therefore it delayeth the Spring and Harvest , the situation of the Countrey inclining thereto , as being under the 53 degree of Latitude . The Soil diverse : about the towns commonly good ; as Clay , Chalk , or fat Earth , well watered , and with some Wood : upward to the Heaths naked , dry and barren : Marsland and Flegge exceeding rich : but Marsland properly for Pasture , Flegge for Corn. ( 2 ) The parts from Thetford to Burneham , and thence Westward , as also along the Coast , be counted Champion : the rest ( as better furnished with Woods ) Woodland . The Champion aboundeth with Corn , Sheep , and Conies and hesein the barren Heaths , ( as the Providence of our Ancestors hath of old disposed them ) are very profitable : For on them principally lie our Fould courses , called of the Saxons ( whose institution they therefore seem to be ) Paldyocum , that is , Liberty of fold or fo●●dage . These heaths by the compasture of the sheep ( which we call Tathe ) are made so rich with Corn , that when they fall to be sown , they commonly match the fruitfullest grounds in other Countries : and laid again , do long after yield a sweeter and more plentiful feed for Sheep : so that each of them maintain other , and are the chiefest wealth of our Countrey . The Woodland ( fitter for grass ) is maintained chiefly by feeding of Cattel , yet well stored with Corn and Sheep . The Coast is fortunate in Fish , and hath many good harbours , whereof Lynn and Tarmouth be the mother-ports , and of great traffique : Wells and Blackeney next in estimation . The whole County aboundeth with Rivers and pleasant Springs , of which the Ouse is the chiefest , by whose plentiful branches , the Isle of Ely , the Towns and Shires of Cambridge , Huntington , and the County of Suffolk vent and receive Commodities . The next is Hi●rus or Yere , passing from Norwich to ●armouth , where it receiveth the Bure coming from Aylsham , both of them of great service for water carriages , but very notable for their plenty of fish : for some one man out of an hold upon the Bnr● , hath drawn up ordinarily once a year , between two Nets , above five or six score Bushels of Fish at one draught . The Waveney and the lesser Ouse are also Navigable and of great use . The residue I omit . ( 3 ) The people were anciently called the ICENI , as the also of Suffolk , Cambridge-shire , and Huntington-shire , and supposed to be of them whom Caesar nameth Cenimagni ; Ptolomy , Simeni ; some Tigeni . Their manners were likely to be as the rest of the Britains , barbarous at those times , as appeareth by Caesar and Tacitus . Neither can I otherwise commend their successors the Saxons ; for so also their own Countreyman Ethelward termeth them . Since the entry of the Normans , they have been counted civil and ingenious , apt to good Letters , adorning Religion with more Churches and Monasteries , than any Shire of England , and the Laws and Seats of Iustice ( for many ages ) with some excellent men ; from whom most of our chief Families , and some of the greatest Nobility of the Kingdom , have taken advancement . And herein is Northfolk fortunate , that as Crete boasted of an hundred Cities , so may she of an hundred Families of Gentlemen , never yet attainted of high Treason . How the Government of this County was about Caesars time , is uncertain , but ( agreeable no doubt to the rest of the Britains ) under some peculiar Toparch or Regulus , as Tacitus termeth him . The latter Romans held it by two Garrisons , one at Gariannum neer ●armouth ; the other at Branodunum , now called Brancastre , both of horse , and commanded by the Comes Maritimi Tractus , as Mercellinus calleth him , and termed after Comes Littoris Saxonici . Upon the entry of the Saxons , this County with Suffolk fell in the portion of the Angles , and about the year five hundred sixty one , were together erected into a Kingdom by Vffa , of whom the succeeding Kings were tituled Vffines . But having suffered many Tempests of Fortune , it was in the year 870 , utterly wasted and extinct by Hungar and Hubba the Danes , who overthrew the vertuous King Edmund about Thetford , and after martyred him at S. Edmundsbury . Yet they did not long enjoy it : for King Edward shortly recovered it from them , and annexed it to his other Kingdoms . The Da●es notwithstanding inhabited abundantly in these parts , so that many of our Towns were sounded by them , a●d a great part of our people and Gentry are risen out of their bloud . ( 4 ) This Kingdom of East-Angles was after allotted to an Earldom of that name by William the Conquero●r , who made Radulph a Britain , marrying his Kinswoman , Earl thereof ; but gave the greatest parts of this County about Wimonham , Keninghall , Lenn , Burnham , Fulmerstone , &c. to W. de Albany , Pincerne , and W. de Warranna Forrestario , who to strengthen themselves ( according to the use of that time ) with the homage and service of many Tenants , divided large portions of the same amongst their friends and followers ; so that most of the Mannors and Lands in the parts aforesaid , were in those days either mediately or immediately holden of one of them . And as Northfolk and Suffolk were first united in a Kingdom , then in an Earldom , so they continued united in the Sheriff-wick till about the fifteenth year of Queen Elizabeth . ( 5 ) The Towns here are commonly well built , and populous ; three of them being of that worth and quality , as no one Shire of England hath the like , Norwich , Lynn , and Yarmouth : to which for ancient reputation ( as having been a seat of the Kings of East-Angles ) I may add Thetford , known to Antoninus , Ptolomy , and elder ages by the name of Sitomagus , when the other three were yet in their infancy , and of no esteem : For I accept not the Relations of the Antiquity and State of Norwich in the time of the Britains and Saxons , though Alexander Nevil hath well graced them . Her very name abridgeth her Antiquity , as having no other in Histories but Norwich , which is meer Saxon or Danish , and signifieth the North-Town or Castle . It seemeth to have risen out of the decay of her neighbour Venta , now called Castor , and as M. Cambden noteth , not to have been of mark before the entry of the Danes , who in the year 1004 , under Swane their Captain , first sackt , and then burnt it , even in her infancy . Yet in the days of Edward the Confessor it recovered 1320 Burgesses . But maintaining the cause of Earl Radulph aforesaid against the Conquerour , they were by famine and sword wasted to 560 , at which time the Earl escaping by Ship , his wife upon composition yielded the Castle , and followed . In William Rufus time it was grown famous for Merchandise and concourse of people ; so that Herbert then translated the Bishoprick from Thetford thither , made each of them an ornament to other . In variety of times it felt much variety of Fortune : By fire in Anno 1508. By extreme plagues , whereof one in Anno 1348 , was so outragious , as 57104 are reported to have died thereof between the Calends of Ianuary and of Iuly . By misery of war was sacked and spoiled by the Earl of Flanders and Hugh Bigod , Anno 1174. In yielding to Lewis the French , against their natural Lord King Iohn , Anno 1216. By the disinherited Barons , Anno 1266. By tumult and insurrection between the Citizens and Church-men : once about the year 1255. which if Henry the third had not come in person to appease , the City was in hazard to be ruined the second time in Anno 1446 , for which the Mayor was deposed , and their Liberties for a while seised . In Edward the sixths time , by Ketts rebellion , whose fury chiefly raged against this City . Since this it hath flourished with the blessings of Peace , Plenty , Wealth , and Honour : so that Alexander Nevil doubteth not to prefer it above all the Cities of England , except London . It is situate upon the River Hierus , in a pleasant valley , but on rising ground , having on the East the Hills and Heath called Mussold for Musswould , as I take it . In the 17 year of King Stephen it was new founded , and made a Corporation . In Edward the firsts time closed with a fair Wall , saving on a part that the River defendeth . First governed by four Bayliffs ; then by Henry the fourth in Anno 1403 , erected into a Majoralty and County ; the limits whereof now extend to Eatonbridge . At this present it hath about thirty Parishes , but in ancient time had many more . ( 6 ) Lynn having been an ancient Borough , under the government of a Bayliff or Reve , called Praepositus , was by King ▪ Iohn in the sixth year of his Reign made Liber Burgus , and ( besides the gift of his memorable Cup , which to this day honoureth his Corporation ) endowed with divers fair Liberties . King Henry the third in the Seventeenth year of his Reign ( in recompence of their servi●● against the out-lawed Barons in the Isle of Ely ) enlarged their Charter , and granted them further , to choose a Major Loco Praepositi : unto whom King Henry the eighth , in the sixteenth year of his Reign , added twelve Aldermen , a Recorder , and other Officers , and the bearing of a Sword before the Mayor . But the Town coming after to the same King , he in the ewenty ninth of his Reign , changed their name , from Maior & Burgensis Lynn Episcopi , to Maior & Burgenses Lynn Regis . ( 7 ) ●●rmouth is the Key of the Coast named and seated by the mouth of the River ●ere . Begun in the time of the Danes , and by small accessions growing populous , made a Corporation under two Bayliffs by King Henry the thrid , and by his Charter , about the fifteenth year of his Reign , walled . It is an ancient member of the Cinque Ports , very well built and fortified , having only one Church ( but fair and large ) founded by Bishop Herbert in William Rufus days . It maintaineth a Peer against the Sea , at the yearly charge of five hundred pound , or thereabout : yet hath it no possessions as other Corporations , but like the Children of Aeolus and Thetis ; maria & 4 ventos , as an Inquisitor findeth Anno 10. H ▪ 3. There is yearly in September the worthiest Herring fishing in Europe , which draweth great concourse of people , and maketh the Town much the richer all the year , but very unsavory for the time . The Inhabitants are so courteous , as they have long held a custom to feast all persons of worth , repairing to their Town . ( 8 ) The Bishoprick of Norwich had first her seat at Dunwich in Suffolk , and was there begun by Faelix , who converted this County , and the East-Angles to the Faith. Being brought out of Burgundy by Sigebert ( the first Christian King of the East-Angles ) he landed at Babingley by Lynn , and there builded the first Church of these Countries , which in his memory , is at this day called by his Name . The second he built at Sharneburn then of wood , and therefore called Stock Chappel . After Faelix and three of his Successors , this Bishoprick was divided into two Sees ; the one with eleven Bishops in succession , continuing at Dunwich ; the other with twelve , at Elmham in Northfolk . Then united again in the time of King Edwin , the entire See for twelve other Bishops remained at Elmham , and in the Conquerours time was by his Chaplain Arfastus ( being the thirtieth ) translated to Thetford , from thence by Herbert ( his next Successour save one ) bought of W. Rufus for 1900 pounds , and brought to Norwich . This Herbert ( sirnamed Losinga a Norman ) builded the Cathedral Church there , and endowed it with large possessions . Not far from thence he also builded another Church to S. Leonard , a third at Elmham , a ●ourth at ●ynn , ( S. Margarets a very fair one ) and the fifth at Yarmouth before mentioned . By the Cathedral Church he builded a Palace for the Bishops , and founded the Priory there ( now converted to Dean and Chapter ) and another Priory at Th●tford . Since his time the Bishops See hath immoveably remained at Norwich , but the ancient Possessions are severed from it ▪ and in lieu thereof the Abbey and Lands of S. Benedict of Holme annexed to it . The Commodities of this County I have contained in these four Verses . Ingenio & populi cultu Norfolcia clara est ; Hinc fluviis ; illinc Insula clausa mari ; Qua ratis , & vellus , frumenta , cuniculus , agnus , Lac scatet , & pisces , pabula , mella , crocus . This Description of Norfolk , I received from the Right Worshipful , Sir HENRY SPELMAN Knight . CAMBRIDGE SHIRE map of Cambridgeshire CAMBRIDGE-SHIRE . CHAPTER XVIII . CAMBRIDGE-SHIRE , lyeth bounded upon the North with Lincoln shire and Northfolk ; upon the East with Northfolk and Suffolk ; upon the South with Har●ford●shire and Essex ; and upon the West with Bedford and Huntington-shires . ( 2 ) This Province is not large , nor for air greatly to be liked , having the Fens so spread upon her North , that they infect the Air far into the rest : from whose furthest point unto Royston in the South , are thirty five miles , but in the broadest is not fully twenty : the whole in Circumference , traced by the compass of her many indents , one hundred twenty and eight miles . ( 3 ) The Soil doth differ both in Air and Commodities , the Fenny surcharged with waters : the South is Champion , and yieldeth Cor● in abundance , with Meadowing Pastures upon both the sides of the River C●me , which divides that part of the Shire in the midst , upon whose East-bank the Muses have built their most sacred Seat , where with plenteous increase they have continued for these many hundred years . ( 4 ) For from ancient Grantcester , Camboritum by Antonine , now famous Cambridge , the other brest and Nurse-mother of all pious literature , have flowed full streams of the learned Sciences into all other parts of this Land , and else where : ancient indeed , if their story be rightly writ , that will have it built by Cantaber a Spaniard , three hundred seventy five years before the birth of our Saviour , who thither first brought and planted the Muses . This City Grantcester by the tyranny of time lost both her own beauty and her professed Athenian Students , so that in Beda's days , seven hundred years after the word became flesh , it is described to lie a little desolate City , and as yet retaineth the name , without any memory of circuit by walls . Of this City , in the year of Christ 〈◊〉 as the Monk of Button doth report , nine Scholars received their Baptism , and became Preach●●● of the Gospel among the Britains ; which ( as he saith ) happened in the Reign of Hadrian the Emperour . But when the Picts , Scots , Hunnes and Saxons had laid all things waste ▪ and with their savage swords cut ou● the leaves of all civil learning , this as the rest yielded to destruction , and so lay forlorn till the Saxons themselves became likewise civil , when Sigebert the first Christian King of the East-Angl●s , from the example of France , whither he had been banished , built Shools in his Kingdom , and here at Grancester the chief , recalling thither the Prof●ssors of Arts and Sciences , as the Story recordeth , and Traditions do hold . But afterwards , as it seemeth , their increase being straightned , the Students complained ( as th● Prophets did to Elisha ) that the place was too little for them to dwell in , therefore enlarging more North-ward , seated themselves near unto the Bridge , whereupon the place began to be called Grantbridge , though others from the crooked River Came will have it named Cambridge . This place ( though sacred and exempted from Mars , as Sylla once spake , when he spared Athens , ) the Danes in their destructions regarded no whit , wherein they often wintered after their spoyls , and left the scars of their savage sores ever behind them . And in the year 1010 , when Suen in his fierceness bare down all before him , this place was no place for Scholars to be in : Warres loud Alarum ill consorting the Muses mild Harmonies . Yet when the Normans had got the Garland on their heads , and these Danish storms turned into Sun-shine days , Gislebert the Monk , with Odo , Terricus , and William , all three of the like Monastical Profession , in the Reign of King Henry the first , resorted unto this place , and in a publick Barn read the Lectures of Grammar , Logick , and Rhetorick , and Gislebert Divinity upon the Sabbath and festival days . From this little Fountain ( saith Peter Blessensis ) grow a great River , which made all England fruitful , by the many Masters and Teachers proceeding out of Cambridge , as on t of a holy Paradise of God. The first Colledge therein endowed with Professions was Peter-house , built by Hugh Balsham Bishop of Ely , in the year of Grace 1284 , whose godly example many others followed , so that at this day there are sixteen most stately Colledges and Halls ; for building , beauty , endowments , and store of Students so replenished , that unless it be in her other ●ister Oxford , the like are not found in all Europe . But at what time it was made an Vniversity , let Robert de Remyngton tell you for me . In the Reign ( saith h● ) of King Edward the first , Gran●bridge , of a School , by the Court of Rome , was made an Vniversity , such as Oxford is . Lastly the ●eridian Line Cut●ing the Zenith over this City , is distant from the furthest West Point , according to Mercator , 20 degrees , 50 scruples , and the Arch of the same M●ridian , lying between the Aequator and Vertical point , is 52 degrees 20 scruples . ( 5 ) Another City formerly in great fame is Ely , had in account for the repute and holiness of Votary Nuns there residing ; built first by Audry , wife to one Tombrot a Prince in this Province , who had this place as a part of her Dowry : she having departed from her second Husband ● Egbert King of Northumberland , devoted her self to the service of God , and built here a Monastery , whereof she became the first Abbess . This in the Danish desolations was destroyed , but soon after re-edified by Ethelwood Bishop of Winchester , who stored it with Monks ; unto whom King Edgar granted the jurisdiction over four hundreds and a half , within these Fenns and the East Angles limits , which to this day are called . The liberties of S. Audrey : after whose example many Nobles so enriched it with large Revenues , that as Malmesbury saith , The Abbot thereof laid up yearly in his own Coffers a thousand and four hundred pounds . And of later times the Monks thereof became so wealthy , that their old decayed Church they renewed with new and most stately buildings , which is now the Cathedral of the Diocess , and for beauty giveth place to no other in the Land. Eight other foundations set apart from secular use in this Province , were at Thorney , Charteres , Denny , Elsey , Beach , Barnwell , Swasey , and Shengey , all which in the days of King Henry the Eighth came to the period of their surpassing wealth , and left their Lands to the dispose of his Will. ( 6 ) The general Commodity of this Shire is Corn , which in the South and Champion part doth abundantly grow , as also Saffron , a very rich Spice . Some Woods there are , and Pasture both pleasant and profitable . The North part thereof is Fenny , but withal fruitful , whereof Henry of Huntington , and William of Malinesbury thus do write : This ●enny Countrey is passing rich and plenteous ; yea , and beautiful also to behold , wherein is so great store of fish that strangers do wonder ; and water fowl so cheap , that five men may therewith be satisfied with less than an half penny . ( 7 ) Places of ancient note in this Shire are these , the Erminstreet-way , which upon the lower West parts of this County , thorow Roiston , runneth forth right unto Huntington . And from Reach a Market-Town standing near to the River Come , a great Duch and Trench is cast all along New-Market-Heath , which for the wonder received thereat , is of the vulgar called The Devils Ditch , being in truth made for a defence against the Mercians by the East-Angles , whose Kingdom it inverged . The G●gmagog Hills near Cambridge retain the memembrance of the Danish Station , where as yet on their tops is seen a Rampier , strengthned with a three-sold Trench , whereof Gervase of Tilbury tells many a pretty Tale. ( 8 ) This Shire is divided into seventeen Hundreds , wherein are seated eight Market-Towns , and hath been strengthened with seven Castles , and God divinely hono●red in one Hundred sixty three Parish-Churches . Hartforde Shire map of Hertfordshire HERTFORD-SHIRE . CHAPTER XIX . HERTFORD-SHIRE is bordered upon the North with Bedford and Cambridge-shires ; upon the East , is altogether bounded by Essex ; upon the South , is confined with Middlesex ; and her west butteth upon Buckingham , and Bedford-shires . ( 2 ) The form thereof is somewhat circular , with many indents to fetch in those Towns that are dispersedly stragled into her next Shire : whereof Roiston and Totteridge are the two extreams from North to South , betwixt whom in a straight drawn line are twenty seven English miles , and from Putnam Westward , to Cheston Nunnery in the East , are twenty eight ; the whole circumference , about an hundred and thirty miles . ( 3 ) The Air is temperate , sweet , and healthful , as seated in a Climate neither too hot nor too cold : the soil is rich , plenteous and delightful , yielding abundance of Corn , Cattle , Wood , and Grass , destitute of nothing that ministereth profit or pleasures for life , which are more augmented by ●he many Rivers that arise and run thorow this Shire , watering her own and others , till they empty themselves into the Sea. ( 4 ) Her ancient Inhabitants in the time of the Romans were the Ca●ieuc●lanians or Cassians , and the Trinobants , as their Writers declare , and in the Heptarchy was possessed by the East-Saxons , excepting some small portion thereof , that the Mercian Kings enjoyed . The Da●es also in their over-runnings , sought to stay themselves in this Shire , and at Ware ( then Weare ) pitched down their rest and hope : for passing the Lea in their light Pinnaces and Shallops , raised therein a Fort , which mangre the English they kept , until that by the wise policy of King Elfred , that River was parted into more running streams , whereby their Ships perished , and they intercepted both of provision and further supply . ( 5 ) The Romans before them made Verolanium● in this Shire their greatest for account , which in Nero's time was a Municipal , as Ninius in his Catalogue of Cities doth call it , or as Tacitus , a Freo Town ; sacked by Boduo that ever eternized Queen of the Icenians , when seventy thousand of the Romans and Confederates by her revenging sword perished : the site and circuit whereof , in this Card we have set according to our view and measure there taken : whose magnificence for Port and stately Archit●cture , were found by her large and arched Vaults in the days of King Edgar , which were digged into and cast down by Elred and Edmer , Abbots of S. Albans , for that they were the receptacles and ●urking holes of Whoores and Theeves : the ruins of which have raised the beauty of her surviving and fair S. Albans , where Offa the great Mercian , in great devotion , built a most stately Monastery , whose Church yet standing , retaineth the ashes of many Nobles , there slain in the quarrel of York and Lancaster ; and a Font of solid Brass brought out of Scotland by Sir Richard Lea , from the siege of Leeth . ( 6 ) Many other Towns , both for Commerce , stately Buildings , and of ancient Record , this Sh●●e affordeth , whereof Hertford , though the Shire Town , is not the richest ; the passage thorow Ware hath left her ways so untrodden : to prevent which , in former times that River at Ware was chained up , and the Bayliff of Heriford had the custody of the Key : which howsoever they have lost , yet hath the Town gotten her Governour to be preferred from the name of a Bayliff unto a Mayor , assisted with nine Burgesses , a Re●order , and two Sergeants their Attendants . Herein a Castle , for situation pleasant , for Trench , Walls , and River , sufficiently fenced , was lately seen ; but marked to de●●iny as the Town to decay , hath found the hand of Fortune to overmatch her strength , and to ruinate the Priory , S. Nicholas , and S. Maries Churchos , besides a Cell of S. Albans Monks , that therein were seated . The like fate falls unto Hensled , and her fair Castle , wherein Richard King of the Romans left his life . Yet Langley is graced both in the birth of Prince Edmund the fifth son to King Edward the third , and the burial of Richard the second that unfortunate King , who in the Cell of Friers Preachers was there first buried , but afterwards removed and enshrined at Westminster . And in another Langley , near the East from thence , was born that Pontifical Break-speare , Bishop of Rome , known by the name of Hadrian the fourth , ( and famous for his stirrup-holding by Frederick the Emperour ) whose breath was last stopped by a Flie that flew into his mouth . ( 7 ) The civil Battles that in this Shire have been fought , in the Map it self are inserted , and therefore here omitted , but the more ancient remembred unto us by Oister-hill near S. Albans , whom the judicious Cambden supposeth to have been the Camp of Ostorius the second Lieutenant , and Subduer of great Caractacus ; as also seven small round Hills betwixt Stevennedge and Knebworth , in which are supposed some Roman Souldiers to lie buried . ( 8 ) Religious Houses built and suppressed , the chiefest for account in this Shire , were S. Albans , Roystone , Ware , Sopwell , Langley , besides them at Hertford , whom B●da calls Herudford : which Cities graduation is distant and removed from the Equator 52 degrees , 5 minutes of Latitude , and set from the first point of the West , according to Mercator , in the 20 degree , 29 minutes of Longitude . The Earldoms whereof , were enjoyed only by those two honourable Families , whose atchievements we have also therein expressed . ( 9 ) This Counties division is into eight hundreds , wherein are seated eighteen Market-Towns , and one hundred and twenty Parish Churches . BEDFORD SHIRE map of Bedfordshire BEDFORD-SHIRE CHAPTER XX. BEDFORD-SHIRE , seated in the South-East of this Island , is a plain and champion Country , and lyeth bounded upon the North with Huntington-Shire ; upon the East with Cambridge and Hartford-shires ; upon the South with Hertford and Buckingham-shires ; and upon the West with Buckingham and Northampton-shires . ( 2 ) The Form thereof is somewhat oval , and not very large : for from Tilbroke in the North unto Studham in the South , are but twenty four English miles ; and from Turny in the West , unto Hartly Coking in the East , are not fully fourteen ; the whole Circumference , about seventy three miles . ( 3 ) The Air is temperate , and the Soil bounteous , especially in the North , whose Borders the fruitful Ouse with her many windings watereth . The South is more lean , and with greater industry bringeth forth Barley , no better elsewhere . Generally this County is Champion , though some places be sprinkled with Pasturage and Woods . ( 4 ) The ancient Inhabitants known to the Romans , that held in this Shire , were part of the Cattieuchlani , a Stout and war-stiring people : and yet upon the report of Caesars proceeding , sent him their subjection for peace . But when that conquering Nation had brought Britain into a Pr●vince under Rome , their Legions lay at Selenae and Magintum , which are now Sandy and Dunstable , places of memorable note in this Shire . After them the Saxons coveting for so fair a Seat , first dispossessed the Britains , under the leading of Cuthwulf● the West-Saxon , about the year of Grace , 572 , who making it their own , was lastly enjoyed by the Mercians , as a part of their Kingdom . ( 5 ) In the year of Christs Incarnation 1399 , immediately before those Civil Wars , that rent in pieces the peace of this Land , between the Princes of Lancaster and York , the River Ouse near unto Harwood , stood suddenly still , and refrained to pass any further ; so that forward , men passed three miles together on foot in the very depth of her Channel ; and backward , the waters swelled unto a great height : which was observed by the judicious , to foretel some unkind diuision that shortly should arise . ( 6 ) This County , among the common calamities of the Land , when it lay trampled under the feet of the Danes , sustained a part : and after that in the time of King Stephen , when the Civil Wars thundred betwixt Maud the Empress and himself , the Shire-Town was sore wasted , with great slaughter of men : So when the Barons forsook their allegiance to King Iohn , the Town and Castle were rendred up into their hands : And lastly , by King Henry the third , laid level even with the ground , some ruinous walls appearing towards the Ouse , but not a stone left upon the Mount where stood his foundation . ( 7 ) This Town by the Britains was called Lettidur ; and of us , Bedford ; being the chiefest in the County , from whom it taketh the name , and is most fruitful , and pleasantly seated , having the Ouse running thorow the Town in the middest , and a fair Stone bridge built over the same , whereon are two Gates to lock and impeach the passage , as occasion shall 〈◊〉 . At the first entrance standeth S. Leonards Hospital for Lazars : and further towards S. Iohns , and S. Maries Churches , within the Town , S. Pauls a most beautiful Church , S. Cuthberts , and S. Peters : without the Town standeth the Friers , S. Loyes , Alhallows , and Ca●dwell Abbey : not far whence , sometimes stood a Chappel upon the Bank of Ouse , wherein ( as Florilegus affirmeth ) the body of Offa the great Mercian King was interred , but by the over-swelling of that River , was born down , and swallowed up ; whose Tombe of Lead ( as it were some phantastical thing ) appeared often to them that seek it not , but to them that seek it ( saith Rosse ) it is invisible . This Town is governed yearly by a Mayor , two Bayliffs , two Chamberlains , a Recorder , a Town-Clerk , and three Sergeants with Maces . ( 8 ) A tale of vain credit is reported of Dunstable , that it was built to bridle the outragiousness of a ●heef named Dun , by King Henry the first : but certain it is , the place was formerly held by the Romans , whose Legions there lay , as appeareth by the Coyns there usually found , which from Magintum are corruptly called Madning-money . ( 6 ) Castles in this Shire are Woodhill , Eaton , Temsford , and Amphill , an honour now appertaining to the Crown . And places of Religion , built by devout persons , but for Idolatrous Abuses again abolished , were at Bedford , Harwood , Helenstow , Newenham , Chicksand , Wardon , Woborne , and Dunstable . All these , with the like , felt the hand of Henry the eighth to lie so heavy upon them , that they were not able to sustain the weight , but were crushed to pieces , and fell to the ground . ( 10 ) The Graduation of this County , taken for the Shire-Town , is placed from the Equator in the degree of 52 and 30 minutes for Latitude , and is removed from the first West point of Longitude , 20 degrees , and 16 minutes . ( 11 ) Whos 's Princely Families , that have born the Titles both of Dukes and Earls , are expressed ; and whose Counties division are into nine hundreds , wherein are seated ten Market-Towns , and one hundred and sixteen Parish-Churches . BUCKINGHAM SHIRE map of Buckinghamshire BUCKINGHAM-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXI . BUCKINGHAM , for the plenty of Beech-trees there growing , and those in the elder time of the Saxons called Buck●n , may well be supposed from them to have the name , as afterward the whole Shire had hers from this Town Buckingham . ( 2 ) In form it somewhat resembleth a Lyon Rampant , whose head or North-point toucheth the Counties of Northampton and Bedford ; whose back or East part is backed by Bedford and Hertford-Shires : his loines or South-borders rest upon Bark-shire , and his breast th● West side is butted upon wholly by Oxford-shir● . The length thereof from Waisbury in the South , to Braidfield in her North , are thirty nine miles ; the breadth at the broadest , from Ashbridge in the East , to Brenwood Horrest in the West , are eighteen ; the whole in Circumference one hundred thirty eight miles . ( 3 ) The Air is passing good , temperate and pleasant , yielding the body health , and the mind content . The soil is rich , fat , and fruitful , giving abundance of Corn , Grass , and Meat . It is chiefly divided into two parts by the Chiltren hills , which run thorow this Shire in the middest , and before time were so pestered with Beech , that they were altogether unpassable and became a receptacle and refuge for Theeves , who daily endammaged the way-faring man ; for which cause Laestan Abbot of S. Albans caused them to be cut down : since when those parts are passable , without any great incombrances of trees ; from whose tops , a large and most pleasant prospect is seen . The Vale beneath is plain and champion , a clayie soil , stiff , and rough , but withall maruellous fruitful , naked of woods , but abounding in meadows , pastures , and tillage , and maintaining an infinite number of sheep , whose soft and fine fleeces are in great esteem with the Turks as far as Asia . ( 4 ) The ancient Inhabitants ●hat were seated in this Shire , were the Catteuchlani , mentioned by Ptolomy , and them dispersed thorow the Tract of Bedford , Hertford , and this . These yielded themselves with the first to Caesar under the Romans subjection , whose over-worn Empire ending in Britain , the Saxons by strong hand attained this Province , and made it a part of their Mercian Kingdom : yet was it first subdued unto them by Cherdike the West-Saxon , whose memory is i●part continued in the To●n Chersey , upon the West of this Country , where in a sharp and bloudy battle he was Victor over the Britains . So also Cuthwul●e a West Saxon at Alesbury in the year of grace 592 , overcame the Britains , and bare down all things before him ; yet no sooner was their Heptarchy weaned , and their Monarchy able to stand alone , but that the Danes , before their strength and growth was confirmed , waxed upon them ; and they not able in so weak a hand to hold fast that weight of greatness they had so grasped , gave place to their Conquerours , who did many harms in this Province ▪ for in the year 914 , the Danes furiously raged as far as Brenwood , where they destroyed the City Burgh , the ancient seat of the Romans , afterwards a Royal house of King Edward the Confessor , which they utterly destroyed . ( 5 ) The Shire-Town Buckingham , fruitfully seated upon the River Ouse , was fortified with a Rampire , and Sconces on both banks , by King Edward the elder , saith Marianus the Scotish Writer ; where in the heart of the Town hath stood a strong Castle , mounted upon a high hill , which long since was brought to the period of her estate ; now nothing remaining besides the signs , that there she had stood . The River circulates this Town on every side , that only on the North excepted , over which three fair stone bridges lead , and into which the Springs of a Well run , called S. Rumalds , a child-saint born at Kings-Sutton , canonized , and in the Church of this Town enthrined , with many conceited miracles and cures : such was the hap of those times , to produce Saints of all ages and sexes . This Town is governed by a Bayliff , and twelve principal Burgesses ; and is in the degree removed from the first point of the West for Longitude 19 , 33 scruples , and the North-pole elevated in Latitude for the degree of 52 , 18 scruples . ( 6 ) A Town of ancient note is Stony Stra●ford , the Romans Lactorodum , being built upon that ancient Causey-way which is called VVatling Street , where remain the marks thereof even unto this day . At this place Edward the elder stopped the passage of the Danes , whilst he strengthened Torcester against them : and herein , King Edward the eldest since the Conquest , reared a beautiful Cross , in memory of Eleanor his dead Queen , as he did in every place where her Corps rested , from Herdby in Lincoln-shire , till it was received and buried at VVestminster . ( 7 ) Places intended for Gods true worship , built by devout persons , and sequestred from worldly imployments , were at Launden , Luffeld , Bidlesden , Bradwell , Nothey , Ankerne , Missenden , Tekeford , Patrendune , Asbridge , and Alesbury : Asbridge in great repute for the bloud ( supposed out of Christs sides ) brought out of Germany by Henry the eldest son of Richard King of the Romans , and Earl of Cornwall , whereunto resorted great concourse of people for devotion and adoration thereof . But when the Sunshine of the Gospel had pierced thorow such clouds of darkness , it was perceived apparently to be onely honey clarified and coloured with Saffron , as was openly shewed at Pauls Cross by the Bishop of Rochester , the twenty fourth of February , and year of Christ 1538. And Alesbury for the holiness of S. Edith was much frequented , who having this Town allotted for her Dowry , had the world and her husband farewel , in taking upon her the vail of devotion , and in that fruitful age of Saints became greatly renowned , even as far as to the working of miracles . These all in the storms and rage of the time , suffered such shipwrack , that from those turmoiled Seas , their Merchandise light in the right of such Lords as made them their own for wreacks indeed . ( 8 ) With four Castles this Shire hath been strengthened , and thorow eleven Market-Towns her Commodities traded ; being divided , for service to the Crown and State into eight hundreds , and in them are seated one hundred fourscore and five Parish-Churches . OXFORDSHIRE map of Oxfordshire OXFORD-SHIRE CHAPTER XXI . OXFORD-SHIRE receiveth her name from that famous Vniversity , and most beautiful City Oxford , and this of the Foord of Oxen , say our English Saxons ; though Leiland upon a ground of conjecture will have it Ousford , from the River Ouse ( by the Latines called Isis ) which giveth name likewise to the adjoyning I stand Ousney . The North point of this Shire is bordered upon by the Counties of VVarwick and Northampton the East with Buckingham , the West by Glocester-shire , and the South altogether is parted from Bark-shire by Thamisis , the Prince of British Rivers . ( 2 ) The blessings both of the sweet-breathing heavens , and the fruitful sight of this Counties soil , are so happy and so fortunate , that hardly can be said whether exceeds . The Air milde , temperate and delicate ; the Land fertile , pleasant , and bounteous ; in a word , both Heaven and Earth accorded to make the Inhabitants healthful and happy : The hills loaden with Woods and Cattle , the valleys burthened with Corn and Pasturage , by reason of many fresh springing Rivers which sportingly there-thorow make their passage ; whereof Evenlod , Charwell , Tame , and Isis are chief : which two last making their Bed of Marriage near unto Dorchester , run thence together in one channel and name . ( 3 ) The length of this Shire is from Cleydon in the North-West , unto Caversham in her South-East , near unto Thamisis , and amounteth almost to forty miles ; the broadest part is in her Western Borders , which extending from the said Cleydon in the North , unto Faringdon seated upon the River Isis in the South , are scarcely twenty six : and thence growing narrower like unto a Wedge , containing in circumference about one hundred and thirty miles . ( 4 ) The ancient Inhabitants known to the Romans , where the Dobuni , part whereof possessed further Westernly into Glocester-shire ; and nearer Eastward , betwixt the bowing of Thamisis , were seated the Ancalites , who sent their submission unto Iulius Caesar , when report was made that the Trinobants had put themselves under his protection ; whereof followed the Britains servitude under the proud yoke of the all-coveting Romans : yea , afterwards this Counties people , being very puissant ( as ●acitus termeth them ) and unshaken by wars , withsto●d Ostorius Sc●pula the Roman Lieutenant , chosing rather to yield their lives in battle , than their p●rsons to subjection . Of later times it was possessed by the Mercian Saxons , as part of their Kingdom , though sometimes both the West Saxons and the Northumbrians had the dispose of some part thereof : for Beda a●firm●th that King Oswold gave the then flourishing City Dorchester unto Berinus the VVest Saxons Apostle , to be his Episcopal See : whence the good Bishop coming to Oxford , and preached before VVulpherus the Mercian King ( in whose Court Athelwold the South-Saxons heathenish King was then then present ) he with all his Nobles were converted to the Faith of Christ , and there baptived , whereby Berinus became the Apostle also of the South-Saxons . ( 5 ) Other places of memorable note , either for actions therein happening , or for their own famous esteem , are the Roll-rich stones , standing near unto Enisham in the South of this Shire , a monument of huge stones , set round in compass , in manner of the Stonehenge : of which fabulous tradition hath reported forsooth , that they were metamorphosed from men , but in truth were there erected upon some great victory obtained , either by or against Rollo the Dane , who in the year 876 , entred England , and in this Shire fought two battles , one neer unto Ho●k-Norton , and a second at the ScienStane . ( 6 ) Rod●ot likewise remaineth as a monument of Oxfords high● styled Earl , but unfortunate Prince , Robert de Vere , who besides the ●arldom , was created by King Richard the second , M●●quess of Dublin , and Duke of Ireland : but at that Bridge , discomfited in fight by the Nobles , and forced to swim the River , where began the downfal of his high mounted fortunes ; for being driven forth of his Country , lastly died in exile and distressed estate . But more happy is this County in producing far more glorious Princes , as King Edward the Confessor , who in Islip was born ; Edward the victorious black Prince , in Woodstock and in Oxford , that warlike Coeur de Lion , King Richard the first , the son of King Henry the second , first took breath . ( 7 ) Which City is , and long hath been the glorious seat of the Muses , the British Athens , and learnings well spring , from whose living Fountain the wholsome waters of all good literature streaming plenteously , have made fruitful all other parts of this Realm , and gained glory amongst all Nations abroad . Antiquity avoucheth , that this place was consecrated unto the sacred Sciences in the time of the Old Britains , and that from Greek-lod , a Town in Wilt shire , the Academy was translated unto Oxford , as unto a Plant-plot , both more pleasing and f●uitful : whereto accordeth the ancient Burlaeus and Necham , this latter also alledging Merlin . But when the beauty of the Land lay under the Saxons prophane feet , it sustained a part of these common calamities , having little reserved to uphold its former glory , save onely the famous monument of S. Frideswids Virgin Conquest ; no other School then left standing besides her Monastery : yet those great blasts , together with other Danish storms , being well blown over , King Elfred that learned and religious Monarch , recalled the exiled Muses to their sacred place , and built there three goodly Colledges for the studies of Divinity , Philosophy , and other Arts of humanity , sending thither his own son Ethelward , and drew thither the young Nobles from all parts of his Kingdom . The first Reader thereof was his supposed brother Neote , a man of great learning , by whose direction King Elfred was altogether guided in this his goodly foundation . At which time also , Assereus Menevensis , a writer of those times affairs , read the Grammar and Rhetorick , and affirmeth , that long before them , Gildas Melkin , Ninius , Kentigern , S. German , and others , spent there their lives in learned studies ▪ From which time that it continued a Seedplo● of learning till the Norman Conquest , Ingulphus ●ecordeth , who himself then lived . No marvel then if Matthew Paris calleth Oxford , the second School of Christendom , and the very chief Pillar of the Catholick Church . And in the Council holden at Vienna , it was ord●ined , that in Paris , Oxford , ●ononi● , and Salamanca , the onely Vniversities then in Europe ) should be erected Schools for the Hebrew , Greek , Arabick , and Caldean tongues , and that Oxford should be the general universi●y for all England , Ireland , Scotland , and Wales , which point was likewise of such weight with the Council of Constance , that from this p●●cedent of Oxford University , it was concluded , that the English Nation was not only to have p●ecedence o● Spain in all General Councils , but was also to be held equal with France it self . By which high pe●ogatives this of ours hath always so flourished , that in the days of King Henry the third , thirty t●ousand Students were therein resident , as Archbishop Armachanus ( who then lived ) hath writ , and Ri●ha●ger ( then also living ) sheweth , that for all the civil wars which hindred such plac●s of quiet study , yet 15000 Students were there remaining , whose names ( saith he ) were entered in Matricula in the matriculation book . About which time , Iohn Baliol ( the father of ●aliol , King of Scots ) built a Colledge , yet bearing his name , Anno 1269 , and Walter Merton Bishop of Rochester , that which is now called Merton Colledge ; both of them beautified with bui●dings , and enriched w●th land● , and were the first endowed Colledges for learning in all Christendom . And at this present there are sixteen Colledges ( besides another newly builded ) with eight Halls , and many most fair Collegiate Churches , all a●orned with most stately buildings , and enriched with great endowments , noble Libraries , and most learned Graduates of all professions , that unless it be her sister Cambridge , the other ●ursing breast of this land , the like is not found again in the World. This City is also honoured with an Episcopal See. As for the site thereof , it is removed from the Equat●r in the degree 52 , and one minute , and from the West by Mercators measure , 19 degrees , and 20 minutes . ( ● ) As this County is happy in the poss●ssion of so famous an Academy , so it is graced with most Princely Palaces apper●aining to the English Crown , whereof Woods●ock is the most ancient and magnificent , built to that glory by King Henry the first , and enlarged with a Labyrinth of many windings by King Henry the second , to hide from his jealous Iuno , his intirely beloved Concubine Rosamond Clifford , a Damosel of surpassing beauty ; where notwithstanding , followed by a clew of silk that fell from her lap , she was surprised and po●soned by Queen Eleanor his wife , and was first buried at Gods●ow Nunnery , in the midst of the qui●e , under a Hearse of silk , set about with lights , whom Hugh Bishop of Lincoln ( thinking it an unf●t object for Virgins devotion ) caused to be removed into the Church ●ard : but those chast sisters liked so well the memory of that kind Lady , as that her bones they translated again into their Chappel . Bensington is another of his Majesties Mannors , built by William de la Pole , Duke of Suffolk , but now in neglect through the annoyance arising from the waters or marishes adjoyning . Houses built for devotion , and for abuse suppressed and again put down , the chief in account were Enisham● , Osney , Bruern , Gods●ow , Burchester , and Tame , besides S. Frideswides , and very many other stately Houses of Religion in this City . The Division of this Shire is into fourteen Hundreds , wherein are seated ten Market-Towns , and two ●undred and fourscore Parish C●u●ches . Glocester Shire map of Gloucestershire GLOCESTER-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXIII . GLOCESTER-SHIRE , lieth bordered upon the North with Worcester , and Warwick-shires , upon the East with Oxford and Wilt-shires , upon the South altogether with Somerset-Shire , and upon the West with the River Wye and Hertford shire . ( 2 ) The length thereof extended from Bristow upon the River Avon in her South , unto Clifford upon another Avon in her North , are about forty eight miles ; and her broadest part from East to West , is from Lechland unto Preston , containing twenty eight : the whole circumference about one hundred thirty eight miles . ( 3 ) The Form whereof is somewhat long and narrow : the Air thereof is pleasant , sweet , and delectable ; and for fruitfulness of Soyl hear Malmesbury , and not me ; The ground of this Shire throughout ( saith he ) yieldeth plenty of Corn , and bringeth forth abundance of Fruits ; the one through the natural goodness only of the ground , the other through the diligent manuring and tillage , in such wise , that it would provoke the laziest person to take pains . Here you may see the High-ways , and Common Lanes clad with Apple-trees and Pear-trees , not ingraffed by the industry of mens hand , but growing naturally of their own accord : the ground of it self is so inclined to bear fruits , and those both in taste and beauty far exceeding others , and will endure until a new supply come . There is not any County in England so thick set with Vineyards as this Province is , so plentiful of increase , and so pleasant in taste . The very Wines made thereof carry no unpleasant tartness , as being little inferiour in sweet Verdure to the French Wines ; the houses are innumerable , the Churches passing fair , and the Towns standing very thick . But that which addeth unto all good gifts ( a special glory ) is the River Severn than which there is not any in all the Land , for Channel broader , for Stream swi●ter , o● for Fish better stored . There is in it a daily rage and fury of waters , which I know not whether I may call a Gulf or Whirl-pool of waters , raising up the sands from the bottom , winding and d●iving them upon heaps : sometimes overflowing her banks , roveth a great way upon the face of her bordering grounds , and again retireth as a Conquerour into the usual Channel . Unhappy is the Vessel which it taketh full upon the side : but the Watermen will beware thereof when they see that Hydra coming , turn the Vessel upon it , and cut thorow the midst of it , whereby they check and avoid her violence and danger . ( 4 ) The ancient people that possessed this Province , were the DOBUNI , who spread themselves ●urther into Oxford-s●ire . But betwixt the Severn and VVy● were seated part of SILURES , or Inhabitants of South-VVales . And upon what ground I know not , let Lawyers dispute it , the Inhabitants in some part of this Shire enjoy a private custom to this day , that the Goods and Lands of Condemned Persons fall unto the Crown but only for a year and a day , and then return to the next heirs , contrary to the custom of all England besides . ( 5 ) The general Commodities of this Shire , are Corn , Iron , and VVols , all passing fine , besides Pasturage , Fruits , and VVoods , which last are much lessened by making of Iron , the only bane of Oke , Elm , and Beech. ( 6 ) These , with all other provisions , are traded thorow twenty five Market-Towns in this County , whereof two are Cities of no small import : the first is Glocester , from whom the Shire taketh name , seated upon Severn , near the middest of this Shire , by Antonin● the Emperour called Glouum , built first by the Romans , and set as it were upon the neck of the Silures , to yoke them , where their legion called Colonia Gleuum , lay . It hath been walled about ( excepting that part that is defended by the River ) the ruines thereof in many places appear ; and some part yet standing , doth well witness their strength . This City was first won from the Britains by Cheulin the first King of the West-Saxons , about the year of Christ , 570 , and afterwards under the Mercians it flourished with great honour , where Offrick King of Northum●erland , by the sufferance of Ethelred of Mercia , founded a most stately Monastery of Nuns , whereof Kineburgh , Edbergh , and Eve , Queens of the Mercians , were Prioresses successively each after other . ( 7 ) Edelfled a most renowned Lady , ●ister to King Edward the elder , in this City built a fair Church , wherein her self was interred , which being overthrown by the Danes , was afterwards rebuilt , and made the Cathedral of that See , dedicated unto the honour of S. Peter . In this Church the unfortunate Prince , King Edward the second , under a Monument of Alablaster doth lye ; who being murdered at Barkley Castle , by the cruelty of French Isabel his wife , was there entombed . And not far from him another Prince as unfortunate , namely , Robert Curthose , the eldest son of William the Conquerour , lyeth in a painted wooden Tombe in the midst of the Quire ; whose eyes were pluckt out in Cardiffe Castle , wherein he was kept prisoner twenty six years , with all contumelious indignities , until through extream anguish he ended his life . And before any of these , in this City say our British Historians , the body of Lucius our first Christian King was interred : and before his days the Britains Arviragus . The graduation of this County I observe from this City , whence the Pole is elevated in the degree of Latitude 52 , and 14 minutes , and in Longitude from the West , 18 , and 5 minutes . ( 8 ) The other City is Bristow , fair , but not very ancient , built upon the Rivers Avon and Frome , for trade of Merchandize a second London , and for beauty and account next unto York . This City standeth partly in this County , and partly in Sommerset-shire : but being a County of it self , will acknowledge subjection to neither . ( 9 ) A City more ancient hath been Circestar , by P●olomy called Corinium ; by Antonine , Durocornovium ; by Giraldus , Passerum Vrbem , The Sparrows City , upon a flying report , that Gurmund a Tyrant from Africk ▪ besieging this City , tyed fire unto the wings of Sparrows , who lighting in the Town upon light matter , set flame upon all . The circuit of whose walls extended two miles about , wherein the Consular Port or ways of the Romans met and crossed each other . This City was won from the Britains by Cheulin first King of the West Saxons : afterwards it was possessed by the Mercians ; and lastly , by the Danes under Gurm●nd ( the former no doubt mistaken for him ) wherein a rable of them kept the space of a year , Anno 879 , and never since inhabited , according to the circuit of her walls . ( 10 ) Places of memorable note are these : The Island Alney near unto Glocester , wherein Edmund Iron-side the English , and Canutus the Dane , after many battles and bloud , fought in single Combat hand to hand alone , until they compounded for the Kingdoms partition : Barkley Castle , where King Edward the second was thorow his fundament run into his bowels with a red burning Spit : Tewkesbury the fatal period of King Henry the sixth his government , and the wound of the Lanc●strian Cause ; for in a battle there fought in Anno 1471 , Prince Edward , the only son of King Henry , had his brains dashed out in a most shameful manner , the Queen and his Mother taken prisoners , and most of their favourites slain and beheaded . And at Alderley , a little Town standing eight miles from the Severne , upon the Hills to this day are found Cockles , Periwincles , and Oysters of solid stone , which whether they have been Shel-fish and living creatures , or else the sports of Nature in her works , let the Natural Philosophers dispute of and judge . ( 11 ) The places of piety , set apart from other worldly Services , and dedicated to religious uses by the devotions of Princes , erected in this Shire , were Tewkesbury , Deor●ust , Glocester , Minching , Burkley , Kinswood , Circester , Winchcombe , and Hales ; which last was built with great cost by Richa●d Earl of Cornwall , King of the Romans , wherein himself and his Dutchesse was interred . Their Son Earl Edmund brought out of Germany the bloud of Hales , supposed and said to be part of that whic● Christ shed upon his Cross. In this place with great confluence and devotions of Pilgrimage it was sought and worshiped , till time proved it a meer counterfeit , when the glorious light of the Gospel revealed to eye-sight such gross Idolatries , and the skirts of Superstition were were turned up , to the shew of her own●shame . ( 12 ) Dukes and Earls that have born the title of Glocester , the first of every Family are by their Arms and Names expressed , ever fatal to their Dukes , though the greatest in bloud and birth . The first was Thomas VVoodstock , son to King Edward the third , who in Callis was ●mothered in a Feather-bed to death . The second was Humfrey brother to King Henry the fifth , by the fraudulent practice of the malignant Cardinal and Queen , made away at S. Edmundsbury . And the last was Richard brother to King Edward the fourth , who by the just hand of God was cut off in battle by King Henry the Second . ( 13 ) This Shires division is principally into four parts , subdivided into thirty Hundreds , and th●m again into two hundred and eight Parish-Churc●es . Hereford SHIRE map of Herefordshire HEREFORD-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXIV . HEREFORD-SHIRE , ( formerly accounted within the limits of Wales ) lyeth circulated upon the North with Worcester and Shrop-shires ; upon the East with Malvern Hills is parted from Glocester-shire ; upon the South is kept in with Monmouth-shire ; and upon the West in part with the Haiterall Hills is divided from Brecknock ; and the rest confined with Radnor-shire . ( 2 ) This Counties climate is most healthful and temperate , and Soyl so fertile for Corn and Cattle , that no place in England yieldeth more or better conditioned : sweet Rivers ru●ning as veins in the body , do make the Corn-bearing grounds in some of her parts rightly to be termed the Golden Vale : and for Waters , Wool , and Wheat , doth contend with Nilus , Colchos , and Egypt ; such are Le●ster , Irchenfield , the banks of Wye , Luge , and Frome . ( 3 ) The ancient people known to the Romans , ( whose power they well felt before they could subdue them ) were the Silures , placed by Ptolomy in this Tract , and branched further into Radnor , Breck●ock , Monmouth , and Glamorgan shires , at this day by us called South●wales , and by the Welsh Deheubarth . Their Original , as Tacitus conjectureth by their site , coloured countenances , and curled hair , was out of Spain , and both as he and Pliny describes them , were fierce , valiant , and impatient of servitude , which well they shewed under Caratacus their Captain , and nine years scourge to the Roman assaulters , for whose only conquest ( and that made by treachery ) the Victor in Rome triumphed with more than a usual Aspect , and with so equal an hand bare the Scoale of Resistance , that their own Writers evermore term it a dange●ous War. For the Legion of Marius Valence they put to ●light , and that with such havock of the Associates , that Asterius the Lievtenant of Britain for very grief gave up the ghost : and Veranius under Nero assaulted them in vain . But when V●spasian was Emperour , and expert Souldiers imployed in every Province . Iulius Frontinus subdued these Silures unto the Romans , where continually some of their Legions afterward kept , till all was abandoned in Valentinians ●ime . ( 4 ) The Saxons then made themselves Lords of this Land , and this Province a part of their Mercians Kingdom ; yea , and Sutton the Court of great Offa their King. ( 5 ) But Hereford after , raised of the ruines of the old Ariconium ( now Kenc●ester shaken in pieces by a violent earthquake ) grew to great fame , thorow a conceived sanctity by the burial of Et●elbert King of the East-Angles , slain at Sutton by Offa , at what time he came thither to have espoused his Daughter ; whose grave was first made at Merden , but afterwards c●nonized and removed to this City , when in honour of him was built the Cathedral Church by Milfrid , a petty King of that County , which Gruffith Prince of South-Wales and Algar an English●●an , rebelling against Edward Confessor , consumed with fire ; but by Bishop Remel●n was restored as now it is , at what time the Town was walled , and i● so remaining in good repair , having six gates for entrance , and fifteen Watch-Towers for defence , extending in compass to fifteen hundred paces : and whence the North Pole is observed to be raised 52 degrees , 27 minutes in Latitude , and is set from the first point of the West in Longitude , 17 degrees , and 30 minutes ; being yearly governed by a Mayor , chosen out of one and thirty Citizens , which are commonly called the Election , and he ever after is known for an Alderman , and clothed in Scarlet , whereof four of the eldest are Iustices of Peace , graced with a Sword-bearer , a Recorder , a Town-Clerk and four Sergeants with Mace. The greatest glory that this City received , was in King Athelstans days ; where ( as Malmesbury doth report ) he caused the Lords of ●ales by way of Tribute , to pay yearly ( besides Hawkes and Hounds ) twenty pound of Gold , and three hundred pound of Silver by weight ; but how that was performed and continued I find not . ( 6 ) Things of rare note in this Shire are said to be , Bone-well , a Spring not fa● from Richards Castle , wherein are continually found little Fishes bones , but not a ●in seen ; and being wholly cleansed thereof , will notwithstanding have again the like , whether naturally produced , or in veins thither brought , no man knoweth . ( 7 ) But more admirable was the work of the Omnipotent , even in our own remembrances , and year of Christ ●esus 1571 , when the Marcley Hill in the East of this Shire , rouzed it self out of a dead sleep , with a roaring noise removed from the place where it stood , and for three days together travelled from her first ●ite , to the great amazement and fear of the beholders . It began to journey upon the seventh day of February , being sunday , at six of the Clock at night , and by seven in the next morning had gone forty paces , carrying with it Sheep in their coats , hedge-rows , and trees ; whereof some were overturned , and some that stood upon the plain , are firmly growing upon the hill ; those that were East were turned West ; and those in the West were set in the East : in which remove , it overthrew ●●●●aston-Chappel , and turned two high-ways near an hundred yards from their usual paths formerly trod . The ground thus travelling , was about twenty six Acres , which opening it self with Rocks and all , bare the earth before it for four hundred yards space without any stay , leaving that which was Pasturage in place of the Tillage and the Tillage overspread with Pa●turage . Lastly , overwhelming her lower parts , mounted to an hill of twelve fathoms high , and there rested her self after three days travel , remaining his mark , that so laid hand upon this Rock , whose power ●ath poysed the Hills in his Ballance . ( 8 ) Religious Houses built by the devotions of Princes , and s●ored with Votaries and revenues for life , were in this Shire no less than fourteen , most stately seated in the places as followeth : at both the Herefords , Barro● , Ewayot , C●●fford , M●nemue , Acornbury , Lemster , Linbroke , Peterchurch , Kilpeck D●r● , and VViggermore : and suspected of hypocrisie , were called in question by King Henry the Eighth , and so strictly pursued , that some faul●s were apparent , whereby they were laid open to the general Deluge of the Time , whose streams bare down the walls of all those Foundations , carrying away the Shrines of the dead , and defacing the Libraries of their ancient Records . ( 9 ) This County before the Conquest being accounted in VVales , was then strengthened with Forts against the English : and being once made a Pro●ince to England , was fortified with Castles against the VVelsh , wherein we find no less than twenty eight , though many of them now are ruinated to nothing . Such were Alban , at both the Ewyats , Godridg , Grosmond , Herdly , Hereford , Old Castle , Dorston , Brampton , Bredwarden , Saint Brivels , Ledbury , Lenals , Snowd●● , Harlewois , Huntington , VVilion , VVigmore , Richards , Monemue , Cor●t , Kilbeck , Clifford , Skensfred , VV●teney , Radenwer , and K●nevenleis ; and is traded with eight Market-Towns , being diuided into eleven Hundreds , and in them seated one hundred seventy and six Parish-Churches , containing in compass an hundred and two miles . Worcestershir map of Worcestershire VVORCESTER-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXV . WORCESTER-SHIRE , is a County both rich and populous , and lyeth circulated upon the North with Stafford●shire ; upon the East with Warwick and Oxford-shires , upon the South with ●locester●shire ; and the West by Malverne Hills is parted from Hereford●shire : the rest lyeth confronted upon , and in part divided from Shrop-shire by the River Dowles . ( 2 ) The form thereof is triangle , but not of equal proportion ; for from North to South are thirty two miles , from South to North-West twenty two , and from thence to her North-East point are twenty eight : the whole in circumference is one hundred and twenty miles . ( 3 ) The Air of this Shire is of a favourable temperature , that gives an appetite for labour , diet , and rest : The Soyl is fertile , and to me seemed inferiour to none other in this Land : for besides the abundance of Corn in every place spread , the Woods and Pasturage in her hills and Plains , sweet Rivers that water the Vallies below , the Cattle that cover the tops of higher ground ; the Fields , Hedge-rows , and High-ways are beset with fruitful Pea●-trees that yield great pleasure to sight , and commodious use : for with their juyce they make a bastard kind of Wine , called Perry , which is both pleasant and good in taste . Many Salt Springs also this County affordeth : yea , and more than are commonly in use , such with the Germans , our ancient Predecessors , were esteemed most sacred and holy ; so that ( as Tacitus writeth ) to such they wontedly resorted to s●pplicate their Gods with their devout pra●ers , as to places neerest the Heavens , and therefore the sooner to be heard . And Poets in their feignings will have the Nymphs residence in shady green groves , and banks of sweet Springs : if so , then ( as Helicon ) this County affords both : such are the Forrests of Wire and Fecke●●am , the great Woods of Norton , and most fair Chase of Malvern . And for waters , to witness what I say , is the Severn that cuts this Shire in the midst , Teme , Salwarp , and Avon , all of them making fruit●ul their passage , and stored with Fish of most delicious taste . ( 4 ) The ancient people , poss●ssors of this Shire , were the CORNAVII ▪ inhabitants of Che●shire Shrop-shire , Stafford , and Warwick-shires subdued by the Romans in Claudius Caesars time , and after their departure , made a portion of the Merci●n●Saxons Kingdom , and in Beda's time were called the VVicii , whereof it may be this Shire had the name : unless you will have it from the Salt-Pits , which in old English are named Witches ; or from the famous Forrest of Wyre . Howsoever , true it is that the County doth hold the name from the Chief City VVorcester . ( 5 ) Which is most pleasantly seated , passing well frequented , and very richly inhabited . This was the Branonium , mentioned by Antonine and Ptolomy , called by the Britains , C●er-VVrangon ; by Ninius , C●er-Guorcon ; and by the Latines , Vigornia , This City is seated upon the East bank of Sever●e , and from the same is walled in , triangle-wise about , extending in circuit one thousand six hundred and fifty paces : thorow which seven Gates enter , with five other Watch-Towers for defence . It is thought the Ro●ans built this to restrain the Britains that held all beyond S●verne . This City by Hardy Canute in the year of Christ 1041 , was so●ely endangered , and set on ●●re , and the Citizens slain almost every one , for that they had killed his Collector of the Danish Tribute : yet it way presently repaired and peopled , with many Burgesses , and for fifteen Hides discharged it self to the Conquerour ; as in his Doomesdays is to be seen . But in the year 1113 , a sudden fire happened , no man knew how , which burnt the Castle and Cathedral Church . Likewise in the civil ●royles of King S●ephen it was twice lighted into a flame , and the latter laid it hopeless of recovery . Notwithstanding from those dead Ashes a new Phenix arose , and her building raised in a more stately proportion , especially the Cathedral dedicated to S. Mary , first laid by Bishop Sexwolfe , in Anno 680 : ●ince when it hath been augmented almost to the River : In the midst of whose Qui●e , from his many turmoiles , resteth the body of King Io●n ( the great withstande● of the Popes proceedings ) under a monument of white Marble , in Princely Vestures , with his portraiture thereon according to life . And in the South-●ide of the same Quire lyeth entombed Prince A●thur the eldest Son to King Henry the seventh ; his Monument is all black Iett , without remembrance of him by Picture . This City is governed by two Bayliffs , two Aldermen , two Chamberlains , and two Constables , yearly elected out o● twenty four Burgesses clothed in Scarlet , assisted with forty eight other Citizen● ▪ ; whom they call their Common Councell●rs , clad in Purple , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and five Sergeants with Mace their Attendants . Whose Geographical Position is distant in Longitude from the West Meridian 18 degrees , 10 scruples , ●aving the North-Pole elevated in Latitude 52 degrees , and 32 scruples . ( 6 ) Places of further note for memorable antiquity , is Vpton , of great account in the Roman time , where some of their Legions kept , as witness their Moneys , there often found ; the admirable Ditch upon Malvern H●lls , drawn by Gilbert Clare , Earl of Glocester , to divide his Lands from the Church of Worcester : the Saxons or Augustines Oke , where he the English Apostle met with the British Bishops for the uniform celebration of Easter , from whence both parts departed with discontented minds , after many hot words and thwa●ting disputes . ( 7 ) Neither is it wi●hout adm●ration to me , that many places of this Shire lye far within the Precincts of other Provinces , as Aulston , Washbor●es , Cuttesden , Paxford , Hanging-Easton , Northwick● , Blockley , Eurlode in Glocester-shire , and Goldcote , Alderme●ston , New●old , Steddenton , Armiscote , Blackwell , Darlings-cote , Shipton , Tydmin●on , Olbarrow in Warwick shi●e , Dudley in Stafford-shire , and Rochford in Her●ford-shire , whither I must refer the Reader to find out these and the like in these Western Tracts . ( 8 ) Religious places erected in this Shire , and devoted unto God by devout persons , were Breden , Brodlege , Evesholme , Al●ecester , Cochel , Eladbury , Malverin , Pershore , Stodl●ge , Westwoods , and Worcester , plenteously provided for , and further secured by many priviledges , both which they abused , as were the Inditements of all such in the days of King Henry the eight , at whose Bar himself being Iudge ) they were found guilty , and received sentence of their ends and dest●uction . ( 9 ) Castles for defence built in this County , ●uinate or in strength , were Hartleb●ry , Holt , Ha●dley , Norton , Elmely , and Worcester , besides his Majesties Mannour of Tichnel . ( 10 ) This Shires divi●ion is into seven Hundreds , wherein are seated ten Market-Towns , and one hundred fifty two Parish-Churches . WARWICKE SHIRE VVARVVICK-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXVI . WARWICK-SHIRE , ( so called from her Shire-Town ) is bounded upon the North with the County of Stafford ; upon the East , with Watling-street-way is parted from Leicester-shire , and the rest bordered upon by Nort●ampton-●hire : the South part is butted by Oxford and Glocester-shires ; and all her West with the County of Worces●er . ( 2 ) The Form thereof is not much unlike to a Scallop-shell , growing from her Western-head , and spr●ading her body wider , with many indents . The length thereof from Newton in the North , to Long-Compton in the South , are miles thirty and three : and the broadest part of this Shire is from H●wellgrange in the West , unto Hill-morton in the East , distant assunder twenty five miles ; the whole in circumference , abo●t one hundred thi●ty and five miles . ( 3 ) This Shire is seated near unto the heart of all England , and therefore participates with her in the best both for Air and soyl , wanting nothing for profit or pleasure for man. The South part from Avon ( that runneth thorow the midst of this County ) is called the Feldon , as more champion and tractable to be stirred for Corn , which yearly yieldeth such plenty of harvest , that the Husb●ndman smileth in beholding his pains , and the meadowing pastures with their green mantles so imbroydred with ●lowers , that from Edg-hill , we may behold another Eden , as Lot did the Plain of Io●dan , before that Sodom fell . The Woodland lyeth upon the North of Avon , so called in regard of the plenty of Woods ; which now are much thinner by the making of Iron , and the soyl more churlish to yield to the Plough . ( 4 ) The ancient people that po●sessed this Province , are by Ptolomies description called the Cornavii , wherein after were seated the Mercian Saxons , a part of whose Kingdom it was , and great●y sought after by the West Saxons , whose King Cut●red , about the year of Ch●ist Iesus 749 , in Battel ●ew Ethelbald at Sekington neer unto Tamworth . And not far from thence , King Edward the 4 , a● unfortunatel● fought agai●st that ●tout make-King Richard Nevil Earl of Warwi●k ; near unto which , upon Blacklow hill , Pierce Gaveston ( that proud and new-raised Earl of Cornwall ) was beheaded by Guy Earl of VVarwick : assisted with the Earls of Lancaster and Hereford . And surely , by the testimony of Iohn Rosse , and others , this County hath been better replenished with people ; who maketh compl●int of whole Town-ships depopulations , altogether laid waste by a puissant Army of feeding sheep . ( 5 ) Notwithstanding , many fair Towns it hath , and some of them matchable to the most of England . The chief thereof is Coventree , a City both stately for building , and walled for defence : whose Citizens having highly offended their ●irst Lord Leofrik● , had their priviledges infringed , and themselves oppressed with many heavy Tributes ; whose wife Lady Godiva pitying their estates , uncessantly s●ed for their peace , and that with such importunacy , as hardly could be said whether was greater , his hatred , or her love : at last overcome with her continual intercessions he granted her suit upon an uneivil , ( and as he thought ) an unacceptable condition , which was , that she should ride naked thorow the face of the City , and that openly at high noon day . This notwithstanding she thankfully accepted , and performed the Act accordingly enjoyned : for this Lady Godiva stripping her self of all rich attire , let loose the tresses of her fair hair , which on every side so covered ●er nakedness , that no part of her body was uncivil to sight : whereby she redeemed her former freedoms , and remissions of such heavy Tributes . Whose memory I wish may remain honourable in that City for ●ver , and her pity followed by s●ch pos●essing Ladies . This City had grant to choose their yearly Magistrates , a Mayor and two Bayliffs , and to build about and ●mbattle a wall , by King Edward the 3 , whom He●ry the 6 corporated a County of it self , and changed the names of their Bayliffs into Sheriffs : and the walls then were built as they now stand ; thorow which open 13 gates for entrance , besides 18 other Towers thereon for defence . At Gofford-gate in the East hangeth the shield-bon● of a wild-Boare , far bigger than the greatest Oxe-bone : with whose s●out the great Pit called Swanswell was turned up , and was ●●ain by the famous Guy , if we will believe report . ( 6 ) Next unto this City , in account and commerce , is VVarwick , upon the North west bank of Avon , built by Gurgunstus , the son of Beline , as Iohn Rosse , Monk of the place , saith 375 years before the birth of Christ : by Ninus called Caer-Guarvic and Caer Leon ; and by learned Cambden judged to be PRAESIDIUM , the Roman Garrisons Town . The situation of this place is most pleasant , upon a hill ri●ing from the River , over which is a strong and fair Stone-bridge , and her sharp stream upon the Town-side checked with a most sumptuous and stately Castle , the decays whereof with great cost and curious buildings , the right worthy Knight Sir Foulke Grevil ( in whose person shineth all true vertue and high Nobility ) hath repaired : whose merits to me-ward I do acknowledge , in setting this hand free from the daily imployments of a manual trade , and giving it full liberty thus to express the inclination of my mind , himself being the Procurer of my pr●sent estate . It seemeth this Town hath been walled about as appeareth by the Trench in some places seen , and two very fair Gates , whose passages are hewed out of the Rock , as all other into the Town are : over whom two beautiful Chappels are built ; that towards the East called S. Peters , and that on the South-west , S. Iames. Two fair Churches ar● therein seated , called S. Marries and S. Nicholas : but these in , and about the Town suppressed , S. Lawrence , S. Michaels , Iohn Baptist , and Iohn of Ierusale● , beside the N●nnery in the North of the Town ; whose North Pol● is elevated in Latitude , 52 degrees , 45 minutes , and is seated from the first point in the West of Longitude , 18 degrees , and 45 minutes , being yearly governed by a Bayliff , twelve Brethren , twenty four Burgesses for Common-Counsell , a Recorder , a Towncl●rk , and one Serg●ant their Attendant . ( 7 ) Places of most memorable note observed in this Shire , are Shugbury , where the precious stone Astroites is found : Off-Church , which was the Palace of great Offa the Mercia● , and the burial-place of S. Frem●nd his son : Che●terton , where the famous Fosse-way is seen . At Leamington , so far from the Sea , a Spring of Salt-water boyleth up : and at Newenham Regis most soveraign wate● against the Stone , Green wounds , Vlcers , and Imposthu●es , and d●unk with Salt looseth , and with Sugar bindeth the body ; and turneth wood into stone , as my self saw by many sticks that therein were faln , some part of them Ash , and some part of them Stone : and Guy Cliffe , where the famous Earl Guy , after many painful exploits a●chieved , retired , and unknown , led an Herm●ts life , and was lastly there buried . ( 8 ) The chiefest Commodities in this County growing , ar● Corn , whereof the Red Horse Vale yieldeth most abundantly ; Wools in great plenty ; Woods and Iron , though the producer of the one , will be the destruction of the other . Such honourable Families as have been dignified with the Earldom of this Sbire To●ns 〈…〉 the Normans Conquest , in the great Map it self are inserted , and by their several names expressed . This County is strengthened with eight strong Castles , traded with fifteen Market-Towns , inriched with many fair buildings , and by the devotion of many Nobles , had many foundations of religious Monasteries therein laid . The chiefest were at Stoneley , Warwick Thellisford , Roxhall , Balshall , Killingworth , worth , Coventree , Combe , Nun-●aton , Ashley , ●therston , and Pollesworth : all which came to their period in the Reign of King Henry the eight , when the rich Revenues were alienated to his use , and those stately buildings either overturned , or bestowed upon his Courtiers : but yet to Gods glory , and his divine service , one hundred fifty eight Parish-Churches therein remain , dispersedly seated in the nine Hundreds of this Shires Division . NORTHAMPTON SHIRE map of Northamptonshire NORTHAMPTON-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXVII . NORTHAMPTON-SHIRE , situated near unto the midst of England , lyeth separated upon the North from Lincoln-Shire by the Riuer Weland ; from Huntington-shire on the East is parted by the water Nene : her South is bounded with Buckingham and Oxford-shires , and the West from Warwick with VVatling-street-way , Avon , and VVeland is divided from Leicester . ( 2 ) The Form of this County ●s large and narrow , broadest in the South-west ; and thence shoo●ing still lesser like unto a Horn , nor not much unlike to the Form of Cornwal : and from the entrance of C●erwel into this Shire , unto the fall of VVeland and Nene near unto Crowland , are by measure forty six miles ; and the broade●t part is from Ouse unto Avon , which is not fully twenty miles : the whole in circumference one hundred and nineteen miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good , temperate , and healthful : the soyl is champion , rich , and fruitful , and so plenteously peopled , that from some Ascents , thirty Parish-Churches , and many more Wind-mills at one view may be seen : notwithstanding the simple and gentle Sheep , of all creatures the most harmless , are now become so ravenous , that they begin to devour men , waste fields , and depopulate ho●ses , if not whole Town-Ships , as one merrily hath written . ( 4 ) The ancient people known to the Romans , and recorded by Ptolomy , were the Coritany , who possessed this County , and were branched further thorow Leicester , Lincoln , Nottingham , Rutland , and Darby-shires : these joyning with the Icenians , with them were fettered with the chains of subjection , when for Claudius , Publius Ostorius Scapula entred his Lieutenantship in Britain , and in battle subdued all betwixt the Rivers Nene and Sabrina . But when the Romans were content to let go that which so long was desired , and had cost so much in the getting , the Saxons , a most warlike Nation , put into these parts , and made it a portion of their Mercian Kingdom : but their government also grown out of date , the Normans seated themselves in these fair possessions , the branches of whose Stems , are spread abroad in these parts , most fruitful and fair . ( 5 ) Commodities arising in this Shire , are chi●fly gotten by tillage and plough , whereby Corn so plentifully aboundeth , that in no other Coun●y is found more , or so much : the pas●ures and woods are filled with Cattle , and every where sheep loaden with their sleeces of wool . ( 6 ) The chief Town in this Shire is No●thampton whereof the County taketh name , which for circuit , beauty , and building , may be ranked with the most of the Cities of our Land. It is seated at the meeting and confluence of two Rivers , the greater whereof beareth the name Nen. This Town hath been built all of stone , as by many foundations remaining to this day is seen , and is walled about both strong and high , excepting the West , which is defended by a River parted into many streams . In the depredations of the Danes , Swen their King set this Town on fire , and afterwards it was sorely assaulted by the disobedient B●rons of King Iohn , who named themselves , The Army of God : But the loyalty of this Town stood nothing so sure unto King Henry his son , whence the Barons with displayed Banners sounded the Battle against their Soveraign . And yet after this a woful field of E●glands civil division was fought , whence Richard Nevil , the stout Earl of Warwick , led away prisoner that unfortunate man King He●ry the sixth . Upon the West part of this Town standeth a large Castle , mounted upon an hill : whose aged countenance well sh●weth the beauty that she had born , and whose gaping chinks do daily threaten the downfall of her walls . To this upon the South the Town wall adjoyneth , and in a round circuit meeteth the River in the North , extending in compass two thousand one hundred and twenty paces : whose site so pleased the Students of Cambridge , that thither they removed themselves upon the Kings Warrant , in mind to have made it an University : from whence the North-Pole is elevated 52 degrees 36 scruples for Lati●ude , and in Longi●ude is removed from the West 19 degrees , and 40 scruples ; being yearly governed by a Mayor , two Bayliffs , twelve Magis●rates , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , a Common Counsel of forty eight Burgesses , with five Serjeants to execute bu●iness . ( 7 ) But the devotions of the Saxon-Kings made Peterb●row more famous , formerly called Medd●swell , where VVolphere King of Mercia began a most stately Monastery to the honour of S. Peter , for satisfaction of the bloud of his two sons , whom he had ●urthered in case of Chris●ianity ; but himself being for the like made away by his Mother , his brother Penda continued the work , with the assistance of his brother Ethelred , and two sisters , Kineburga and Kineswith . This among the Danish Desolatio● was cast down , yet was it again restored to greater beauty by Ethelwold Bishop of VVinchester , with the help of King Edgar , and of Adulph his Chancellour , who upon prick of conscience , that in bed with his wife he had over-laid and smothered an Infant their only son , lai● all his wealth upon the re●edifying of the place , and then became Abbot thereof himself . The Cathedral is most beautiful and magni●ical , where , in the Quire lie interred two unfortunate Queens : on the North side Katherine Dowager of Spain , the repud●ate wife of King Henry the eight , under an Hearse covered with black Say , having a white Cross in the midst : and on the South side , Mary Queen of Scotland , whose Hearse is spread over with black Velvet . The Cloy●ter is large , and in the Gla●●e windows is very curiously portrayed the History of VV●lphere the Founder , whose Royal Seat was at VVedon in the street , converted unto a Monastery by S. VVerburgh his holy daughter , and had been the Roman Station , by Antonine the Emperour called Bannavenna . So likewise Norman-Chester was the ancient City Durobriva , where their Souldiers kept , as by the moneys t●ere daily found is most apparent . ( 8 ) Houses of Religion devoted to Gods Service by the pious intents of their well meaning Founders , were at Peterborow , Peakirk , Pipewell , Higham , Davintree , Sulby , Saulscombe , Sewardesleg , Gare , S. Dewy , S. Michael , Luffeild , Catesby , Bruch , Barkley , Finshead , Fotheringhay , VVeden , and VVithrop , besides them in Northampton , all which felt the storms of their own destruction , that raged against them in the Reign of King Henry the eight , who dispersed their Revenues to his own Coffers and Courtiers , and pulled the stones asunder of their seeming ever sure Foundations ; and in the time of young Edward , his son , whose mind was free from wronging the dead , the Tombs of his own Predecessours were not spared , when as Edward slain at Agincourt , and Richard at VVakefield , both of them Dukes of York , were after death assaulted with the weapons of destruction , that cast down their most fair Monuments in the Collegiate Church of Fotheringhay Castle . ( 9 ) Eight Princely Families have enjoyed the Title of the Earldom of Northampton , whereof the last , Henry Howard , late Lord Privy Seale , a most honourable Patron to all learned proceedings ( that I may acknowledge my dutiful and humble Service ) hath most honourably assisted and set forward these my endeavours . ( 10 ) This Shires division , for service to the Crown , and imployment of businesses , is into twenty Hundreds , hath been strengthened with ten Castles , and is still traded with ten Market-Towns , and God honoured in three hundred twenty six Parish-Churches . HUNTINGTON SHIRE map of Huntingtonshire HUNTINGTON-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXVIII . HUNTINGTON-SHIRE , ( part of the Iceni under the Roman Monarch of Mercia in the Saxon Heptarchy ) is severed with Nene ; the North bounder from Northampton-shire , to which it in part adjoyneth west ; from Bedford and Cambridge , by mearing Towns on the South ; and from Ely , by a fence of water East , the work of Nature , Benwick Stream ▪ or of Art , Canutu● Delph : severed when Alfred , or before him , Off ● shared the open circuit of their Empery into Principalities : that by residence of subordinate rule , Peace at home might be maintained ; Forreign offence ( by apt assembly of the Inhabitants ) resisted ; Tax and Revenue of the Crown laid more even●ly , and en●ily levyed : Iustice at mens doors with less charge and journey administred : all causes Civil having a right and speedy dispatch , in the County or Earls monthly Court , as Criminal in his Lieutenant the Sheriff ▪ Turne , twice a year . In form of a Lozeng this shire lyeth of positure temperate , and is 52 degrees , 4 scruples removed from the Aequator : the Hilly soyl to the Plough-man grateful : the Vale , contiguous to the fens , best for Pasture , in which to no part of England it giveth place : Woods are not much wanted , the Rivers serving Coal , as the Moors , Turff , for Fuell . ( 2 ) This Content was ( as the whole Continent ) Forest , until Ca●utus gave this Law of grace , Vt quisque tam in agris , quam in silvis excite● agitetque feras . Long were the hands of Kings to pull ( of old ) the Subjects right into Regal pleasure , when perambulation and Proclamation only might make any mans land forrest . It is in the first Williams time a Phrase in Record , not rare , Silva hujus Mane●ii FORISEST miss● in Silvam R●gis , from which word of power , Forrest may seem not unaptly to be derived . Cum videbat Henricus primus tres Bi●sas , sitting in his Forrest of Lyfield , he caused Husculphus his Ranger to keep them for his Game , as the record doth testifie . Thus did the second of his name , and the first Richard , in many parts : well therefore may the Exchequer Book call the Forrest Iustice for Vert and Venison , not Iustum absolut● , but Iustum secundum Legem Forestae . That Foresta is defined , Tuta ●erarum statio , may seem to confine the Forresters Office onely to his Games care , which of ancient was as well over Mineral and Maritimal revenue . The Office of Baldwi●e the great Forrester of Flanders , Non agrum tantum spectabat , sed & Maris custodiam , sai●h Tullius , out of the old Charters of the French Kings . And s●e how just this squares to our Legal practise , for of Assarts , Purprestures ▪ Emprovement , Greenhugh , Herbage , Paunage , Fowles , Mills , Honey , Mines , Quarries , and Wreacks at Sea , did the Itineral Iustice of the Forrest h●re enquire . His Subjects of this Shire , Henry the 2 , from servitude of his beasts , ( whose Grand-father pro●feris homines in●arceravit , exhaereditavit , multilavit , tru●idavit ) did pretend by Charter to enfranchise , except Wabridge , Saple , Herthy , His own Demaines . But such was the success by encroachments , under his two ●ucceeding Sons , that it drew on the oppressed people to importune anew the Soveraignes redress , which was by the great Charter of the third Henry ●ruitlesly effected . His son in the seventh of his Reign , by a perambulation , re●uming back the fruit of his fathers goodness , and so remaining , until in his twenty ninth year by Petition , and purchase of his people ( for they gave him a full fifteen ) he confirmed the former Charter , and by Iury , View , and Perambulation , setled that Boundary of ●orrest , which contented the People , became the square of universal Iustice in this Kind , and left in this Shire no more than the three former ( his own grounds ) Forrest . ( 3 ) This Shire hath four Centuriatae or Hundreds , and had of old time five ; these so called , Quia prima iustitutione ex Hiderum aliquot center ariis compositae . These are subdivided into 79 Parishes , whereof five besides the Shire-Town have Markets . These Parishes are measured by Hides , and Carucks , or Plough-lands , more or less , is either richness of Soil , or strength of the Lord strengthned or extended their limits , the Mass in whole containing of the first sort , 818 , and of the other , 1136 , ( These hides the ancient and general measure of land ( except in Kent ) where the account was by Solms , or Lincoln-shire . Vbi non sunt Hidae , sed pro Hidis sum Carucatae ) were esteemed one hundred Acres , Non Normanico sed Anglico numero , una hida pro sexies viginti Acris , duo pro duodecies viginti , as in the Book of Doomesday , Caruca the Teame-land ( not Carucata , for they be different ) was in quantity of Acres , proportioned to the quantity of Soil , but usually in this Shire reputed 60. The Virgata , or Yard-land , was a more or less part of the Hide , as the Acres in number varied , which I find in this County from 18 to 42 , but for the most part 30 , which was the half Plough-land . And the Bovata or Oxgang ( presumed in Law for Land in Granary ) was suited in number of Acres to that Yard-land , of which it was a Moity . Thus ( except in the Fens , laid out per Leucas & quarentenas , miles and furlongs ) stands all ameasurement of Land in this Shire , which containeth in Knights , Fees , 53 one half , 2 fifts , and a twentieth part . And in full estimation of rent and worth , rose in the time of the Conquerour , to 912 l. 4 s. and now payeth in Fifteen to the King , 871 l. 9 s. 7 d. ob . and in tenth from the Clergy , 142 l. 6 s. q. ( 4 ) This County in discision of Titles , and administration of Iustice , did at the first , as the Germans our Ancestors , Iura per pagos & vicos reddere ; Every Township by their Friburg● , or Tenemental , as Triers , and the Baron , Thain , or Head Lord there , or the Decanus ( a good Freeholder ) his Deputy , as Iudge , determining all Civil causes , a representation of this remaineth still in our Court-Leet . Aboue this , and held twelve times a year , was our Hundred or Wapentake . Quae super decem Decanos & centem Friburgos judicabat . Here the Iudges were the Aldermen , and Barons or Freeholders of that Hundred ; Aegelwinus Aldermannu● tenuit placitum cum ●oto Hundred● , saith the Book of Ely. This Court had Cognoscence of Causes Ecclesiastical , as Temporal , therefore the Iudge or Alderman ought to be such as Dei leges & hominum jura studebat promovere : thus it went although the Conquerour commanded , Ne aliquis de legibus Episcopalibus amplius in Hundredo placita teneret . The next and highest in this Shire , was Generale placitum Comitatus ( the County or Sheriffs Court ) to which were proper Placita Civilia ubi Curia Dominorum probantur desecisse , Et si placitum exurgat inter Vavasores duorum Dominorum tractetur in Comitatu . The Iudge was the Earl or Sheriff . The Tryers Barones Comitatus ( Freeholders ) Qui liberas in eo terras habent , not Civil onely , but Probats of Wills , Questions of Tithes , Et deb●●a vera Christianitatis Iura , were heard , and first heard in this Court. Therefore Episcopus , Presbyter Ecclesiae & Quatuor de melioribus villae , were adjuncts to the Sheriff , Qui dei leges & seculi nego●ia justa consideratione definirent . The Lay part of this liveth in a sort in the County , and Sheriff Turn ; the Spiritual , about the Reign of King Stephen , by Soveraign connivence , suffered for the most into the quarterly Synode of the Clergy , from whence in imitation of the Hundred Court , part was remitted to the Rural Deaneries , of which this Shire had four : And these again have been since swallowed up by a more frequent and superiour jurisdiction , as some of our civil Courts have been . There being now left in use for the most of this Shire for Causes Criminal , View of Frankpleg , by grant or prescription , A Session of the Peace quarterly , and two Goal deliveries by the Soveraigns Commission : and for Civil Causes , Cou●ts of Mannours , or of the County monthly , and twice by the Iudges of Assise yearly . The Office of Execution and custody of this County is the Sheralfey , of old inheritable , untill Eustachius , who by force and favour of the Conquerour disseised Aluric and his heires , forfeited it to the Crown ; but since it hath passed by annual election , and hath united to it the County of Cambridge . ( 5 ) Having thus far spoken of the Shire in general , next in observation falleth the Shire-Town Huntington , Hundandun , or the Hunters Downe , North , seated upon a rising bank , over the rich meadowing river Ouse , interpreted by some Authors , the Down of Hunters , to which their now common Seal ( a Hunter ) seemeth to allude . Great and populous was this in the foregoing age , the following having here buried of fifteen all but three , besides the Mother-Church S. Maries , in their own graves . At the reign of the Conquerour , it was ranged into four Ferlings or Wardes , and in them 256 Burgenses or Housholds : It answered at all assessments for 50 Hides , the fourth part of Hur●tington Hundred , in which it standeth . The annual rent was then 30 l. of which , as of three Minters there kept , the King had two parts , the Earl the third ; the power of coy●age then and before , not being so privatley in the King , but Borows , Bishops , and Earls enjoyed it ; on the one side stamping the face and stile of their Soveraign , in acknowledgement of subordinacy in that part of absolute power , and on the reverse their own name , to warrant their integrity in that infinite trust . ( 6 ) The Castle supposed by some the work of the elder Edward , but seemingly by the Book of Doomesday , to be built by the Conquerour , is now known but by the ruines : It was the seat of Woltheof the great Saxon Earl , as of his succeeding heirs , until to end the question of right between Sentlice and the King of Scots , Henry the second laid it as you see ; yet doth it remain the head of that honour , on which in other Shires many Knights Fees , and sixteen in this attended . Here David Earl of this and Arguise , Father of Isabel de Brus , founded the Hospital of S. Iohn Baptist : And Love●ote here upon the Fee of Eustace the Vicount , built to the honour of the blessed Virgin , the Priory of Black Cannons ; valued at the Suppression 232 l. 7 s. ob . Here at the North end was a house of Fryers , and without the Town at Hinchingbrook , a Cloister of Nuns , valued at 19 l. 9 s. 2 d. founded by the first William , in place of S. Pandonia at Eltesly ( by him suppressed ) where near the end of the last Henry , the Family of the Cromwells began their Seat. To this Shire-Town , and benefit of the neighbour Countries , this River was Navigable , until the power of Gr●y , a minion of the time , stopt that passage , and with it all redress either by Law or Parliament . By Charter of King Iohn this Town hath a peculiar Coroner , profit by Toll and Custom , Recorder , Town-Clerks , and two Bayliffs ( elected annually for government ) as at Parliament two burgesses , for advice and as●ent : and is the Lord of it self in Fee-farm . ( 7 ) The rest of the Hundred ( wherein this Shire Town lieth ) is the East part of the County , and of Hurst a Parish in the center of it , named HURSTINGSTON , it was the Fee-farm of ●amsey Abbey , which on a point of Fertile Land thrust out into the Fens , is therein si●uate , founded in the year 969 , to God , our Lady , and S. Benedict , by Earl Aylwin of the Royal bloud , replenished with Monks from Westbury , by Oswald of York , and dedicated by Dunstan of Canterbury , Archbishops . By Abbot Reginald 1114 , this Church was re-edified , by Magnavill Earl of Essex , not long after spoiled , and by Henry the third first of all the Norman Princes , visited ; when wasted with the Sicilian wars , Regalis mensae Hospitalitas ita abbreviata fuit , ut cum Abbatibus , Clericis & viris satis ●umilibus , Hospitia quaesivit & prandia . This Monastery ( the shrine of two martyred Kings , Ethelbright and Ethelred , and of Saint Ive the Persian Bishop ) by humble piety at first , and pious charity , ascended such a pitch of worldly fortune , that it transformed their Founder ( religious povert● ) into their ruine , the attribute of Ramsey the rich ; for having made themselves Lords of 387 Hides of Land ( whereof 200 in this Shire , so much as at an ea●ie and under rent , was at the Suppression valued at 1983 l. 15 s. 3 d. q. but by account of this time annually amounts to 7000 l. ) they then begin to affect popular command , and first enclosing that large circuit of Land and Water , for in it lyeth the Mile-square Meere of Ramsey as a peculiar Seigniory to them , called the Baleu● or Bandy , bounded as the Shire , from Ely , and from Norman-Crosse with the hundred Meere , by Soveraign Grant they enjoyed regal liberty . And then aspiring a step further , to place in Parliament , made Bro●ghton the head of their Barony , annexing to it in this Shire four Knights ▪ Fees. Thus in great glory it stood above 400 years , until Henry the Eight ( amongst many other once bright Lamps of Learning and Religion in this State , though then obscured with those blemishes to wealth and ease concomitant ) dissolved the house , although Iohn Warboys then Abbot , and his 60 black Monks there maintained , were of the first that under their hands and conventual Seal protes●ed , Quod Romanus Pontifex non habet majorem aliquam Iurisdictionem collatam sibi à Deo in Regno Ang●iae quam quiuis alius externus Episcopus . A Cell to this rich Monastery was S. Iv●s Priory , built in that place of Slep by Earl Ad●lmus , in the reign of the last Edmund , where the incorrupted body of S. Ive there once an Hermit , in a Vi●ion revealed , was by Ed●othus taken up in his Robes Episcopal , and dedicated in the presence of Siward Earl of this County , and that Lady of renowned piety Ethel●leda , to the sacred memory of this Persian Bishop . Not far from this is Somersham , the gift of the Saxon Earl Brithnothus to the Church of Ely , before his own fatal expedition against the Danes : It is the head of those five Towns , of which the Soke is composed , and was an house to the See of Ely , well beautified by Iohn Stanley their Bishop ; but now by exchange is annexed to the Crown . As these , so all the rest of this hundred was the Churches land , except Rippon Regis ancient Demaine . To which Saple ( reserved Forrest ) adjoyned , and the greater Stivecley , given by the last David Earl of Huntington , in Fee to his three Servants , Sentlice , Lakervile , and Camoys . ( 8 ) NORMANSCROS the next Hundred , taketh name of a Cross above Stilion , the place where in former ages this Division mustered their people , whence Wapentake is derived : it had in it two Religious houses , the eldest in the confines of Newton and Chesterton , neer the River of Avon , now Nene founded ( by the first Abbesse Keneburga , the Daughter of Penda , and Wife of Elfred , King of Northumber land ) West side a Trench , where Ermin-street-way crossed over the River by a Stone-bridge , whose ruines are now drowned , whence the Roman Town there seated on both sides took the name Durobrivae , as Trajectus Fluminis . But this Nunnery as raised , was also ruined by the Danes before the Conquest . The other a Monastery of Cistercian black Monks , erected in ho●●u● of the Virgin Mary , by the second Simon Earl of Huntington , at Soltry Iudeth , the Land of a Lady of that name , wife of Earl Waltheof , daughter of Lambert Earl of Leins , Neece to the Conquerour by hi● sister , ( her Mother ) and Grand-mother to this Founder Malcome , and William , Kings of Scots , Earls of Huntington , and Heirs of this Lady , strengthened by several Charters this pious work . Many chief of that Line , as the last Earl David , brother to King William , as Isabel , the wife of Robert de Brus his daughters Heir ; and most of the second branch , her progeny making here their Burials . This house now level with the ground , maintained besides the Abbot , six Monks , and 22 Hindes , and was at the Suppression valued at 199 l. 11 s. 8 d. The Founders and Patrons of this Monastery were the Lords of the next place Conni●gton , first the seat of Turkillus Earl of the East Angles , that invited Swayne from Denmarke to invade this Land ; and who first squared out the unbounded marishes of this part , to the bordering Towns ; his rule of proportion allowing to euery parish tantum de Marisco , quantum de ●icc● terra in breadth , in which none , ●ine licentia Domini might vel fodere , vel falcare , but leaving most to inter-common by vicinage . This Dane exiled ( when the rest of his Countreymen were by Edward Confessor ) his land here was given to Earl waltheof , by whose eldest heir Matild● married to David King of Scots , it went along in that Male Line , until by death issuless of Iohn Earl of Chester and Huntington , it fell in partage , to his sister Isabel de Brus , one of his Heirs , from whose second Son Bernard , the Family of Cotton by Lineal succession holdeth this Land , whereto Glatton the adjoyning Parish is now by bounty of a second branch annexed . It was in this Shire the head of the honour of Bolleine , on which Connington , Walimsford , Sibson , Stibington , and Vescyes Mannor in Chesterton attended : part of it is the fresh Sea Wittlemere , four mile in breadth ; over which when Emma , and her Children , the issue of Canutus , sayled with some peril , her Husband in prevention of the like , from Bottesey in a straight course to the opposite firme land , lined with his Attendant Swords that passage , which since hath born the name of Sword● Delph , Kings or Canutus dyke . This Seignory was granted by the Conquerour to Eustace Earl of Bollei● , Brother to Lambert Earl of Leins , and Father to Godfrey King of Ierusalem ; reverting it was given to Richard Earl of Cornwall , who granted out of it the two Meeres , Vbbe Meere and Brich Meere , in Fee-Farme to the Church of Ramsey . Then after sundry changes it came to Iohn of Gaunt , in exchange of the Earldom of richmond , and so by descent fell again to the Crown . VVashingley , ( not far off ) from the ancient Lord of that name , by Drw● , and Otter , came to the Princes that now pos●esseth it . In Chesterton from VVadsheafe by Den●yes there is to the Sevils ( an ancient name in this Shire ) a Mannor descended . The rest from Aegidius de Merk . ( who gave there much to Royston Priory ) passed by Amundevil to Gloucester , and so to Vescey by exchange . In Elton , the house rich in a beauteous Chappel , from Denham to Sapcotes , and Satl●re Beaumes , from that sirname ( near the time of the Conquest ) by ●outh to Cornwallis descended ; as Bottle-bridge by Gimels , Drayton , Lovet , unto Sherley the now Lord. ( 9 ) LETUNESTANHUNDRED have that name from Leighton , a Town in the midst of it , given by Earl VViltheof to the Church of Lincolne , which after shared it into two Prebendaries . One , the Parsonage impropriate , which still remaineth : the other ( the Lordships ) was resumed by Henry the eight , and now by the Heir of Darcy matched to the Lord Clifton , is become the seat of the Barony . This Hundred had in it no house of Religion , but Stolney ▪ a Priory of seven black Cannons of the order of S. Augustine , founded by the Bigrames , and at the Suppression valued at 62 l. 12 s. 3 d. ob . It stood within the reach of the great Mannor Kimbolton ( once an Hundred ) which was the Land of Earl Harold the Usurper : after by grant it came with the Chase of Swinesheved to Fitz-Peter , from whom by Mag●avil to Bohum ( who in time of the tumul●uous Barons built there a Forcelet ) and so to Staffard , by whose attainture forfeited , it was given by Henry the eight to the Family of Wingfield that now possesseth it . At Bugden the See of Lincoln hath a seat , and was Lord of Spaldwick , and the Soke ( given in compensation from the Church of Ely , when rent from them , it was by the first Henry made a Bishoprick ) until of late that Church gave up their interest in Spaldwick to the Crown . Brampton was given by King Iohn at Mirabel , to Earl David , and by Ada his youngest Daughter fell to Hastings Earl of Pembroke , and now is reverted to the King. To the same Earl David by gift of the former King came Alcumesbury , and by the bounty of Iohn Scot his son to Segrave , and so the Lord Barkley the late possessor . To Serlo de Quincy Earl of Winchester , was Keston by Henry the second given , by whose Heir general ●errars , it came to the late Earl of Essex and by exchange to the Crown . ( 10 ) TOULESLANDHUNDRED , taketh name likewise of a Town therein situate in the out Angle of this , to the memory of S. Neotus a Monk of Glastenbury , but the supposed son to Ethelwolfe King of the VVest-Saxons ( whose body from Neostock in Cornwall was transferred to Ar●alphesbury , then of Arnulphus a holy man , now Enesbury named ) Earl Alrick and Ethelsteda turned the Palace of Earl Elfred into a Monastery of black Monks , which was razed by the Danes ; but out of the ashes of this , Roisia ( wife to Richard the son of Earl Gilbert ) to God , our Lady de Becco , and S. Neot ( as a Cell to the Abbey of Becco in Normandy ) erected up of black Monks in the year 1113 , the late Priory of S. Nedes , suppressed by Henry the eight , and valued at 256 l. 15 d. q. At Southo ( the Land of Eustachius the Sheriff ) Lovetote made the seat of that Seigniory : on which in this Shire 13 Knights Fees and a half depended : but from his line by gift of Verdon and Ves●y drowned were these in the honour of Gloucester . Near to this at Cretingsbury dwelt Sir Adam de Cretings , famous in Edward the thirds wars of France , whose Heir General Wauto● doth now possess it . Staunton given by the first VVilliam to Gilbert de Gaunt , after the death issueless of De Rupes , escheated to the King , who gave it to Iohn his ●ister Queen of Scots . She on the Abbey of Tarant bestowed part , the rest reverting being given to Segrave , descended to the Barons of Berkly , Godmanchester , or Gormanchester ( so named of that Dane to whom Aelfred at his conversion granted some regiment in these parts ) was the old Land of the Crown , now the Inhabitants in Fee farme , by grant of King Iohn , pro Sexies viginti libris pondere & numero . It is flat seated by as fruitful and flowry Meadows as any this Kingdom yieldeth , and is the most spacious of any one Parish in fertile tillage , oft having waited on their Soveraign Lords with ninescore Ploughs in a rural pompe : Some from the name Gunicester , which this often beareth in record ) suppose it the City where Machutus placed his Bishops Chair . But for certain it was the Roman Town Durosipont , of the Bridges named , so many hundred years ( until the light of our Britain story overshone it ) forgotten . Thus as this City , so the old Families have been here with time outworn , few onely ( of the many former ) now remaining , whose sirnames before the reign of the last Henry were in this Shire of any eminency . But , Non indignemur mortalia Nomina solvi , Cernimus exemplis Oppida posse mori . Let 's not repine that Men and Names do die , Since stone-built Cities dead and ruin'd lie . This Description I received from a right worthy and learned Friend . RVTLANDE SHIRE RUTLAND-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXIX . RUTLAND-SHIRE , the least of any County in this Realm , is circulated upon the North with Lincoln-shire ; upon the East and South with the River VVeland is parted from Northampton-shire ; and the West is altogether held in with Leicester-shire . ( 2 ) The Form thereof is round , and no larger in compass than a light horse man can easily ride about in a day : upon which occasion some will have the Shire named of one Rut , that so rode . But others from the redness of the Soyl , will have it called Rutland ; and so the old English-Saxo●s called it , for that Roet and Rut is in their Tongue Red with us , and may very well give the name of this Province , seeing the earth doth stain the wool of her Sheep into a reddish colour . Neither is it strange , that the stain of the Soyl gives names unto places , and that very many : for have we not in Che-shire the Red Rock , in Lanca-shire the Red Bank , and in Wales Rutland Castl● . To speak nothing of that famous Red Sea , which shooteth into the Land betwivt Egypt and Arabia , which gave back her waters for the Israelites to pass on foot : all of them named from the colour of the Soile . ( 3 ) The longest part of this Shire is from Caldecot in the South upon the River Ey , unto Thistleton a small Village seated in the North , not fully twelve miles : and from Timwell East-ward , to Wissenden in the West , her broadest extent is hardly nine : the whole circumference about forty miles . ( 4 ) The Air is good both for health and delight , subject to neither extremity of heat nor cold , nor is greatly troubled with foggy mists . The Soil is rich , and for Corn and tillage gives place unto none . Woods there are plenty , and many of them imparked , Hills feeding heards of Neat , and flocks of Sheep ; Vallies besprinkled with many sweet springs ; Grain in abundance , and Pastures not wanting : in a word , all things ministred to the content of life , with a liberal heart and open hand . Only this is objected , that the Circuit is not great . ( 5 ) The draught whereof , that I may acknowledge my duty and his right , I received at the hands of the right Honourable Iohn Lord Harrington , Baron of Exton , done by himself in his younger years . Near unto his house Burley , standeth Okam a fair Market-Town , which Lordship the said Baron enjoyeth , with a Royalty somewhat extraordinary , which is this : If any Noble by birth come within the precinct of the said Lordship , he shall forfeit as an homage a shooe from the horse whereon he rideth , unless he redeem it at a price with money . In witness whereof , there are many Horse-shooes nailed upon the Shire-Hall door , some of large size and ancient fashion , others new , and of our present Nobility ; whose names are thereupon stamped as followeth . Henry Hastings . Roger Rutland . Edward L. Russel , Earl of Bedford . Ralph L. Euwer of Parram . Henry L. Bertley . Henry L. Mordant . William L. Compton . Edward L. Dudley . Henry L. Winsor . George Earl of Cumberland . Philip Earl of Montgomery . L Willoughby . P. L Whart●n . The Lord Shandois . Besides many others without names . That such homage was his due , the said Lord himself told me ; and at that i●st●nt a suit depended in Law against the Earl of Lincoln , who refused to forfeit the penal●y , or to pay his fine . ( 6 ) Her ancient Inhabitant known to the Romans , mentioned in Prolomy , were the Coritani , and by him branched thorow Leicester , Lincoln , Nottingham , Darby-shire , and this : who with the Icenians were subdued by P. Ostorius under the yoke of Claudius the Roman Emperour : and at their departure , by conquest of the Saxons made it a Province unto their Mercian Kingdom , whose fortunes likewise coming to a full period , the Normans annexed it under their Crown . ( 7 ) This County King Edward Confessor bequeathed by his Testament unto Queen Eadgith his wife , and after her decease unto his Monastery at Westminster , which William the Conquerour cancelled and made void , bestowing the Lands upon others , the Tithes and the Church unto those Monks . That the Ferrars here first seated , besides the credit of Writers , the Horse-shooe , whose badge then it was , doth witness ; where in the Castle , and now the Shire-Hall , right over the ●eat of the Iudge , a Horse-shooe of Iron curiously wrought , containing five foot and a half in length , and the breadth thereto proportionably is fixed . The Castle hath been strong , but now is decayed , the Church fair , end the Town spacious ; whose degree of Longitude is 19 , 46 scruples , and the North-poles elevation in Latitude 53 degrees , and 7 minutes . ( 8 ) Let it not seem offensive , that I ( to fill up this little Shire ) have inserted the seat of a Town not sited in this County : for besides the conveniency of place , the circuit and beauty , but especially it being for a time an University , did move much ; yea , and the first in this Island , if Iohn Hardings Author fail him not , that will have Bladud to bring from Athens certain Philosophers , whom here he seated , and made publick profession of the Liberal Sciences , where ( as he saith ) a great number of Scolars Studied the Arts , and so continuing an University unto the coming of Augustine , at which time the Bishop of Rome interdicted it , for certain Heresies sprung up among the Britains and Saxons . But most true it is , that the Reign of King Edward the third , upon debate falling betwixt the Southern and Northern Students at Oxford , many School-men withdrew themselves hither , and a while professed , and named a Colledge , according to one in Oxford , Brazen-nose , which retaineth that name unto this day . This was so great a skar unto the other , that when they were recalled by Proclamation to Oxford , it was provided by Oath , that no Student in Oxford should publickly profess or read in the Arts at Stanford , to the prejudice of Oxford . ( 9 ) As this Shire is the least in circuit , so is it with the fewest Market-Towns replenished , having onely two . And from societies that feed upon the labours of others , was this Land the freest : for besides Rishal , where Tibba the Falconers Goddess was worshiped for a Saint , when Superstition had well neer put Gods true hononr out of place , I find very few ; neither with more Castles strengthened than that at Okam , whose ruines shew that a Castle hath been there . Divided it is into five Hundreds , and therein are planted forty eight Parish-Churches . LEICESTER SHIRE map of Leicestershire LEICESTER-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXX . LEICESTERSHIRE , lyeth bordered upon the North with Nottingham-shire ; upon the East with Lincoln and Rutland ; upon the South with Northampton-shire ; upon the West with Watling-street-way , is parted from Warwick-shire ; the rest being bounded with the confines of Darby , is a County Champion , abounding in Corn , but sparing of woods , especially in the South and East parts , which are supplyed with Pit-coals plenteously gotten in the North of this Province , and with abundance of Cattle bred in the hills beyond the River Wr●ak , which is nothing so well inhabited as the rest . ( 2 ) The Air is gentle , milde , and temperate , and giveth appetite both to labour and rest : wholesome it is , and draweth mans life to a long age , and that much without sickness ; at Carleton onely some defect of pronunciation appeareth in their speech . ( 3 ) The Soil thus consisting , the Commodities are raised accordingly of Corn , Cattle , and Coals ; and in the Rocks near Bever are sometimes found the Astroites , the Star-like precious Stone . ( 4 ) The ancient people that inhabited this County , were the Coritani , who were spread further into other Shires , but after that the Romans had left the Land to it self , this with many more fell to be under the possession and government of the Mercians , and their Kings , from whom the English enjoyed it at this day . ( 5 ) In Circular-wise ( almost ) the compass of this Shire is drawn indifferently spacious , but not very thick of Inclosures , being from East to West in the broadest part not fully 30 miles , and from North to South but 24 the whole circumference about 196 miles : whose principal City is set , as the Center , almost in the midst ; from whom the Pole is elevated 53 degrees , and 4 minutes in Laritude , and for Longitude , 19 degrees , 22 minutes . ( 6 ) From this Town the Shire hath the name , though the name of her self is diversly written , as Legecestria , Legara , Leg●o-cester : by Ninius , Caer-Lerion ; by Matthew of Westminster ( if we do not mistake him ) ●irall ; and now lastly , Leicester : ancient enough if King Leir was her builder , eight hundred and forty and four years before the birth of our Saviour , wherein he placed a Flamine to serve in the Temple of Ianus , by himself there erected , and where he was buried , if Ieffery ap Arthur say true : but now certain it is , that Ethelred the Mercian Monarch made it an Episcopal See , in the year of Christ Iesus 680 , wherein Sexwul●● of his el●ction became the first Bishop ; which shortly after was thence translated , and therewith the beauty of the Town began to decay ; upon whole desolations that erectifying Lady Edelfled cast her eyes of compassion , and both re-edified the buildings , and compassed it about with a strong wall , where , in short time the Cities Trade so increased , that Matthew Paris in his lesser Stor● reporteth as followeth ; Lege-cester ( saith he ) is a right wealthy City , and notably defe●ded ; and had the wall a sure foundation , were inferiour to no City whatsoever . But this pride of prosperity long lasted not under the Normans , for it was sore oppressed with a world of Calamities , when Robert Bossu the Crouch-back Earl of that Province , rebelled against his Sove●aign Lord King Henry the second : whereof hear the same Author Paris speak : Through the obstina●e stubbornness of Earl Robert ( saith he ) the whole City Leicester was besieged and thrown down by King Henry , and the Wall that seemed indissoluble , was utterly raced even to the ground . The pieces of these Fragments so fallen down remained in his days like to hard Rocks , through the strength of the Morter cementing whole lumps together : and at the Kings command the City was set on fire and burnt , the Castle raced , and a heavy imposition laid upon the Citizens , who with great sums of money bought their own banishments : but were so used in their departure , that for extream fear many of them took Sanctuary , both at S. Edmunds and S. Albans , In repentance of these mischiefs , the Author thereof , Earl Robert , built the Monastery of S. Mary de Pratis , wherein himself became a Canon Regular , and for fifteen years continuance in sad laments served God in continual prayers . With the like devotion , Henry the first Duke of Lancaster built an Hospital , for an hundred and ten poor people , with a Collegiate Church , a Dean , twelve Canons Prebendaries , as many Vicars , suffciently provided for with Revenues ; wherein himself lyeth buried : and it was the greatest ornament of that City , until the hand of King Henry the eighth lay over-heavy upon all the like foundations ; and laid their aspiring tops at his own feet . The fortunes of another Crouch-back ( King Richard Usurper ) who no less remarkable in this City than the former Robert was , both of them in like degree of dishonourable course of life , though of different issue at their deaths , the one dying penitent and of devout esteem ; the other leaving the stench of Tyranny to all following ages ; who from this City setting forth in one day with great pompe , and in Battle aray , to keep the Crown sure upon his own Helmet , in a sore fought field , yieldeth both it and his life , unto the head and hands of Henry of Richmond his Conquerour : and the next day was brought back , like a Hog , naked and torn , and with contempt , without tears obscurely buried in the Gray Friers of this City ; whose suppression had suppressed the plot place of his grave , and only the stone-chest wherein he was laid ( a drinking trough now for horses in a common Inn ) retaineth the memory of that great Monarchs Funeral : and so did a stone in the Church and Chappel of S. Maries ; inclose the Corps of the proud and pontifical cardinal Wolsey , who had prepared for himself , as was said , a far more richer Monument . ( 7 ) Other places worthy of remembrance in this Shire were these : In the West , where a high Cross was erected , in former times stood the fair City Cleycester , the Romans BENONNE , where their Legions lay , and where their two principal ways crossed each other , as the Inhabitants report : Loughborow in the North verge , was ( as Marianus affirmeth ) taken from the Britains by Cuthwolse their King , about the year of Christ 572. At Redmore , near Bosworth , Westward in this County , the Kingdom of England lay in hazard of one Battle , when King Richards field was fought , where the Land at once was free from a Tyrant and wicked Usurper . Neither may we pass Lutterworth , as the least in account , where the famous Iohn Wickliff , Englands Morning star , dispersed the clouds of all Papistical darkness , by preaching the Gospel in that his charge ; the stile of his pen , so piercing in power , that the man of Sin ever since hath been better known to the world . ( 8 ) Religious houses by Princes erected , and by them devoted to God and his service , the chiefest in this Shire were at Leicester , Grace-Dieu , Kerby-Bellers , and at Burton a Spittle for Lazers , a disease then newly approached in this Land , for the erection whereof a common contribution was gathered thorow the Realm : the patients in this place were not so much deformed in skin , as the other were in the defects of the soul ; whose skirts being turned up to the sight of the world , their shames were discovered , and those houses dissolved , that had long maintained such Idolatrous sins . ( 9 ) This Shires division is into six Hundreds , and in them are seated twelve Market-Towns for commerce , and containeth in circuit two hundred Parish-Churches . LINCOLNE SHIRE map of Lincolnshire LINCOLN-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXI . THe County of Lincoln , by the Normans called Nicolshire , is confined on the North with Hamber , on the East with the German Ocean , upon the South , is parted from Cambridge and Northampton-shire by the River Nyne ; and on the West from Nottingham and York-shires by Dun and Trent . ( 2 ) The length of this Province extendeth from Barton unto Humber in the North , unto Stanford upon the River Nyne in the South , are miles by our English measure fifty five , and the breadth thereof from Newton in the West stretched unto Winthorp upon her East Sea containeth thirty five . The whole in circumference about one hundred and eighty miles . ( 3 ) The Air upon the East and South part is both thick and foggy , by reason of the Fens and unsolute grounds , but therewithal very moderate and pleasing . Her graduation being removed from the Aequator to the degree of 53 and the winds that are ●ent of her still working-Sea● to disperse those vapours from all power of hurt . ( 4 ) The Form of this County doth somewhat resemble the body of a Lute , whose East-coasts lye bow-like into the German-Ocean , all along pestered with inlets of salt waters and sands , which are neither firm nor safe for travellers , as those in the South proved unto King Iohn , who marching Northward from Northfolk , against his disloyal Barons , upon those washes lost all his furniture and carriage by the sudden return of the Sea , and softness of the Sands . ( 5 ) Her Soil upon the West and North is abundantly fertile , pleasant and rich , stored with pasturage , arable and meadowing grounds ; the East and South Fenny and brackish , and for Corn , barren ; but for fowl and fi●h exceeding any other in the Realm ; wherein , at some times and seasons of the year , hath been taken in nets , in August , at one draught , aboue three thousand Mallards , and other Fowls of the like kind . ( 6 ) The Shires commodities consist chiefly in Corn , Cattle , Fish , Fowl , Flax and Alablaster ; as also in a Plaister much esteemed of by the Romans for their works of Imagery ; and whereof Pliny in his Natural History maketh mention . And the Astori●es , a precious sto●e , Star-like , pointed with five beams or rays , anciently esteemed for their vertue in victories , upon the South-west of this County near Bever are found : not far thence in our Fathers memory , at Harlaxton was ploughed up a brazen vessel , wherein was inclosed a golden Helmet of an ancient fashion , set with precious stones , which was presented to Katherine of Spain , Wife and Dowager to King Henry the eighth . ( 7 ) This Shire triumpheth in the birth of Beauclerk , King Henry the first , whom Selby brought forth , and of King Henry the fourth , at Bullingbrooke born ; but may as justly lament for the death of King Iohn , herein poisoned by Simon a Monk of Swynsted Abbey ; and of Queen Eleanor , wife to King Edward the first , the mirrour of wedlock , and love to the Commons , who at Hardby , near Bullingbrooke , his birth-place , ended her life . ( 8 ) Trade and commerce for provision of life is vented thorow thirty one Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Lincoln the Counties Namer is chief , by Ptolomy and Antonine called Lindum , by Beda Linde-Collina , and by the Normans , Nichol. Very antient it is , and hath been more Magnifical , as by her many overturned ruines doth appear , and far more populous , as by Doomesdayes Book is seen , where it is recorded that this City contained a thousand and seven mansions , and nine hundred Burgesses with twelve Lage-men , having Sac and Soc. And in the Normans time , saith Malmesbury , it was one of the best Cities of England , being a place of traffick of Merchandize for all commerce by Land or Sea. Herein King Edward the third ordained his Staple for the Mart of Wools , Leather and Lead ; and no less than fifty Parish-Churches did beautifie the same : but now containeth onely fifteen , besides the Cathedral . Some ruines yet remain both of ●riari●s , and Nunneries , who lie buried in their own ashes , and the City conquered , not by war , but by time and very age : and yet hath she not escaped the calamity of Sword , as in the time of the Saxons , whence Arthur enforced their Host : the like also did Edmund to the destroying Danes ; and by the Normans it suffered some damage , where King Stephen was vanquished and taken prisoner ; and again , by the third Henry , that assaulted and wa● it from his rebellious Barons . By fire likewise it was for defaced , wherein not only the buildings were consumed , but wihal many men and women in the violence thereof perished : as also by an Earth quake her foundation was much weakened and shaken , wherein the fair Cathedral Church , dedicated to the Virgin of Virgins , was rent in pieces . The government of this City is committed yearly to a Mayor , two Sheriffs , twelve Aldermen in Scarlet , a Sword , a Hat of Estate , a Recorder , Sword-bearer , and four Serjeants with Maces : whose situation on a steep hill standeth for Longitude , in the degree 20 , 10 scruples , the Pole elevated for Latitude from the degree 53 , and 50 scruples . ( 9 ) Much hath been the devotion of Princes in building of religious houses in this County , as at Crowland , Lincoln , Markby , Leyborn , Grenfeld , Alvingham , Newnersby , Grymmysby , Newsted , Elshaw , Stansfeld , Syxhill , Torkesey , Bryggerd , Thor●eholme , Nuncotten , Fosse , Hovings , Axholme Isle , Gokewell , S. Michaels near Stamford , Swyneshed , Spalding , Kirkested , &c. ( 10 ) Commotions in this shire were raised the eight and twentieth of King Henry the Eight , where twenty thousand making insurrection , violently sware certain Lords and Gentlemen to their Articles . But no sooner they heard of the Kings power coming , but they dispersed themselves , and sued for pardon . And again in the third year of King Edward the Sixt , in ease of Inclosures , Lincoln rose in seditious manner , as did they of Cornwall , Devonshire , York-shire , and Norfolk : but after some slaughters of their chiefest men , were reduced to former obedience . The Shires division is into three principal parts , viz. Lindsey , Kesteven , and Holland ; Lindsey is subdivided into seventeen Hundreds , Kesteven into eleven , and Holland into three , containing in all thirty one , wherein are situated thirty Market-Towns , and six hundred thirty Parish Churches . NOTTINGHĀ SHIRE map of Nottinghamshire NOTTINGHAM-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXII . NOTTINGHAM-SHIRE ( from Nottingham her chiefest Town hath the Name , and that , somewhat softned from the Saxons Snoddenzaham , for the many Dens or Caves wrought in her Rocks and under ground ) lyeth bordered upon the North and North-west with York-shire ; upon the East a good distance by Trent is parted from , and with Lincoln-shire altogether confined : the South with Leicester-shire ; and the West by the River Erwash is separated from Darby-shire . ( 2 ) For Form long and Oval-wise , doubling in length twice her breadth , whose extreams are thus extended and distance observed : From Feningley North of Steanford in the South , are thirty eight English miles ; West part from Teversal to Besthorp in the East , are little more than nineteen ; whose circumference draweth much upon one hundred and ten miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good , wholsome and delectable : the Soyl is rich , sandy and clayie , as by the names of that Counties divisions may appear : and surely for Corn and Grass of fruitful , that it secondeth any other in the Realm : and for Water , Words , and Canell Coals abundantly stored . ( 4 ) Therein groweth a Stone softer then Alabaster , but being burnt maketh a plaister harder than that of Paris , ; wherewith they floor their upper Rooms ; for betwixt the Ioysts they lay only long Bulrushes , and thereon spread this Plaister , which being throughly dry becomes most solid and hard , so that it seemeth rather to be firm stone than mortar , and is trod upon without all danger . In the West near Worksop , groweth plenty of Liquo●ice , very delicious and good . ( 5 ) More South in this Shire , at Stoke , in the Reign of King Henry the seventh , a great ba●te was fought by Iohn De-la-Poole Earl of Lincoln , which Richard the U●urper had declared his heir apparent ; but Richard losing his life , and De-la-Poole his hopes , in seeking here to set up a Lambert , fell down himself : and at Newark , after many troubles , King Iohn got his peace with the end of his life . ( 6 ) Trade and Commerce for the Counties provision is frequented in eight Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Nottingham is both the greatest and best , a Town seated most pleasant and delicate upon a high hill for building stately , a number of fair streets , surpassing and surmounting many other Cities , and for a spacious and most fair Market-place , doth compare with the best . Many strange Vaults ●ewed o●t of the Rocks , in this Town are seen ; and those under the Castle of an especial note , one for the story of Christs Passion engr●●en in the Walls , and cut by the hand of David the second King of Scots , whilst he was therein detained Prisoner . Another wherein Lord Mortimer was ●upprized in the non-age of King Edward the Third , ever since bearing the name of Mortimers Hole ; these have their Stairs and several Rooms made artificially even out of the Rocks : as also in that Hill are dwelling Houses , with Winding-stairs , Windows , Chimneys , and Room above Room , wrought all out of the solid Rock . The Castle is strong , and was kept by the Danes against Burthred , Ethelred , and Elfred the Mercian , and West-Saxon Kings , who together laid their siege against it : and for the further strenght of the Town , King Edward sirnamed the Elder , walled it about , whereof ●ome part as yet remains , from the Castle to the West-gate , and thence the foundation may be perceived to the North : where in the midst of the way ranging with this bank , stands a Gate of Stone , and the same Tract passing along the North part may well be perceived ; the rest to the River and thence to the Castle are built upon , and thereby buried from sight : whose circuit , as I took it , extendeth two thousand one hundred twenty paces . ( 7 ) In the wars betwixt Stephen and Maud the Empress , by Robert Earl of Glocester these Walls were cast down , when also the Town it self suffered the calamity of fire : but recovered to her former estate , hath since increased in beauty and wealth , and at this day is governed by a Mayor and six Aldermen , clad in Scarlet , two Sheriffs , two Chamberlains , a Town-Clark , and six Sergeants with Maces , their attenders ; whose position hath the Pole elevated fifty three degrees , 25 minutes in Latitude , and hath the Meridian nine degrees and 25 minutes . This Town hath been honoured by these Princes Titles , and these Princes dignified with the Earldom of Nottingham , whose several Arms and Names are in the great Map expressed . Religious houses that have been erected and now suppressed in the compass of this County , chiefly were Newsted , Lenton , Shelford , Southwell , Thurgarton , Blith , Welbeck , and Radford ; in Nottingham the White and Gray Friers , besides a little Chappel dedicated to S. Iohn . All which shew the devotions of those former times ; which their remembrance may move , if not condemn us , that have more knowledg , but far less piety . The Shires division is principally into two : which the Inhabitants term the Sand and the Clay ; but for Tax to the Crown , or service for State , is parted into eight Wapentakes or Hundreds , wherein are seated 168 Parishes Churches . DARBY SHIRE map of Derbyshire DARBY-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXIII . DARBY-SHIRE lieth inclosed upon her North parts with York-shire ; upon the East with Nottingham-shire ; upon the South of Leicester-shire ; and upon the West is parted with the Rivers Dove and Goyt from Stafford and Chess-shires . ( 2 ) It is in Form somewhat triangle , though not of any equal distance , growing from her narrow South-point still wider , and in the North is at the broadest : For from Stretton near the head of Mese , to New-Chappel seated near the head of Derwent the two extreams from North to South are thirty eight miles : but from the Shire-Oaks unto the meeting of Mersey and Goyt , the broadest part of all this Shire is not full twenty nine ; the whole in circumference ex●endeth to an hundred and thirty miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good and very healthful ; the Soil is rich , especially in her South and East parts ; but in the North and West is hilly , with a black and mossie ground , both of them fast handed , to the Ploughers pains , though very liberal in her other gifts , whose natures thus dissenting , the River Derwent doth divide asunder , that taketh course thorow the heart or the midst of this County . ( 4 ) The Ancient People that possessed these parts in the times of the Roman assaults , were the Coritani , whom Ptolomy dispersed thorow Northampton-shire , Leicester , Rutland , Lincoln , Nottingham , and this Shire , who were all of them subdued by P. Ostorius Scapula , Lieutenant in this Province for Claudius the Emperour . But Romes Empire falling in Britain , by the intestine Wars among themselves ▪ the Saxons ( a more savege and fearful Nation ) soon brought it ▪ under their subjection , and made this a Province unto their Mercians Kingdome , whom the West-Saxons first wan and again lost to the Normans . ( 5 ) It is stored with many commodities , and them of much worth ; for besides woods and Cattle , Sheep and Corn , every where over spreading the face of this County , the Mill-stone , Crystal and Alablaster , the Mines of Pit-coal , Iron , and Lead , are of great price , whereof the last is mentioned in Pliny who writeth , that , in Britaine , in the very crust of the Ground , without any deep digging , is gotten so great store of Lead , and there is a Law expresly made of purpose , forbiding men to make more than to a certain stint , whose stores are plente●usly gotten in tho●e Mountains , and melted into Sowes to no small profit of the Country . There is found also in certain veins of the earth - Stibium , which the Apothecaries call Antimonium , and the Alchymists hold in great esteem . ( 6 ) Places of Commerce , or memorable note , the first is Darby , the Shire-Town , called by the Danes Deoraby , seated upon the West-bank of Derwent , where also a small Brook rising Westward , runneth thorow the Town under nine Bridges before it meets with her far greater River Derwent , which presently it doth , after she hath passed Tenant-Bridge in the South-East of the Town . But a Bridge of more beauty built all of Free-stone , is passed over Derwent in the North-East of the Tow● , whereon standeth a fair stone Chappel , both of them bearing the names of S. Maries ▪ five other Churches are in this Town , the chief whereof is called Alh●llows , whose Steeple or Bell-Tower being both beautiful and high , was built only at the charges of young Men and Maids , as is witnessed by the inscription cut in the same upon every square of the Steeple . Among the miserable desolations of the Danes , this Town bare a part , but by the Lady Ethelfleda was again repaired , and is at this day incorporated with the yearly government of two Bailiffs , elect out of twenty four Brethren , besides as many Burges of Common-Councel , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants with Mace ; whose Graduation is observed from the Aequator to be 53 degrees , 25 scruples , and from the first point in the West , 19 degrees , 2 scruples . ( 7 ) Little-Chester ( by the Romish Money there daily ) seemeth to have been ancient , and that a Colony of of the Roman Souldiers there lay . Yet of far greater Fame was R●pandunum , now Rep●on , where Ethelbald the ninth King of the Mercia●s , and fifteenth Monarch of the Englishmen , slain at Segg●swald by the treason of his Subjects , was interred : and whence Burt●red , the last King of that Peop●e , was exp●lsed with his Queen Ethelswith , by the rage of the Danes , after twenty two years Reign . But with a more pleasing eye we may behold Melborn , the Memorial of Englishmens great valour , where in that Castle was kept prisoner Iohn Duke of Burbon , taken Captive in the Battle of Agincourt , and therein detained the space of nineteen years . ( 8 ) Thing● of stranger note are the hot Water-springs bursting forth of the ground at Buxton , where out of the Rock within the compass of eight yards , nine Springs arise , eight of them warm , but the ninth very cold . These run from under a fair square building of Free-stone , and about threescore paces off received another hot Spring from a Well , inclosed with four flat Stones , called Saint Anns ; near unto which , another very cold Spring bubled up . The report goeth among the by-dwellers , that great cure● by these waters have been done : but daily experience sheweth , that they are good for the Stomack and Sinews , and very pleasant to bathe the body in . Not far thence is Eld●n hole , whereof strange things have been told , and this is confidently affirmed , the waters that trickle from the top of that Cave ( which indeed is very spacious , but of low and narrow entrance ) do congeal into stone , and hang as is●ckles in the Roof , some of them were shewed at my being there , which like unto such as the Frost congealeth , were hollow within , and grew Taper-wise towards their points , very white , and somewhat Chrystal-like . And seven miles thence upon a mounted-hill , standeth a Castle , under which there is a Hole or Cave in the ground of a marvellous capacity , which is commonly called The Devils Arse in the Peak , whereof Gervase of Tilbury hath told many pretty ▪ Tales , and 〈◊〉 do make it one of the wonders of our Land. ( 9 ) As in●other Csounties the devotions of the Religious have been made apparent in the erectio● of Places for Gods peculiar Service ; so in this have been founded eight of that nature , which wer● Dale , Derelege , Darby , Repton , Bechef , Graiesley , Faverwell , and Pollewerke : whose peace and plenty stood secure from all danger , till the blustering Winds arising in the Reign of King Henry the Eight , blew off the Pinacles of their beauteous Buildings , and shook asunder the revenues of those Foundations which never are like again to be laid . ( 10 ) This Shire is divided into six hundreds , wherein have been seated seven Castles , and is still traded with eight Market-Towns , and replenished with one Hundred and six Parish-Churches . Staffordshir map of Staffordshire STAFFORD-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXIV . STAFFORD-SHIRE , whose situation is much about the middle of England , mee●eth upon the North with Chess-shire and Darby , and that in a Triangle point , where three Stones are pitched for the bounds of these Shires ; it is parted from Darby-shire on the East with Dowe and with Trent ; the South is confined with Warwick and Worcester-shires , and the West butteth against the County of Shrop-shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is somewhat Lozeng-like , that is , sharp at both ends , and broadest in the midst . The lengh extending from North to South , is by measure forty four miles ; and the breadth from East to West , twenty seven miles ; the whole in Circumference one hundred and forty miles . ( 3 ) The Air is good and very healthful , though over sharp in her North and Moreland , where the Snow lyeth long and the Wind bloweth cold . ( 4 ) The Soil in that part is barren of Corn , because her Hills and Moors are no friends unto Tillage : the middle more level , but therewithal wooddy , as well witnesseth that great one , called the Cank . But the South is most plenteous in Corn and Pasturage . ( 5 ) Her ancient Inhabitants were the CORNAVII , whom Ptolomy placeth in the Tract that containeth Shrop-shire , Worcester-shire , Chess-shire , and this : all which were p●s●essed by the Mercian-Saxons , when their Heptarchy slourished . And Tameworth in this Shire was then held their King● Court. The Danes after them often assayed herein to have seated , as witnesseth T●trall , then Theoten●●ll , by inte●pretation , The habitation of Pagans , imbrued with their blood by King 〈◊〉 the Flder . But the Inhabitants of this Province Beda terms The midland-Englishmen , because to his seeming it lay in the heart of the Land , which when the Normans had made Conquest of all , many of them set down their rest here , whose posterity at this day are fairly and further branched into other parts . ( 6 ) The Commodities of this County consist chiefly in Corn , Ca●tle , Alablaster , Woods , and Iron , ( if the one prove not the destruction of the other ) Pit-coal , Flesh and Fish , whereof the River Trent is said to swarm : and others arising and running thorow this Shire , do so bat●en the ground , that the Meadows , even in the midst of Winter , grow green : such are Dowe , Manifold , Churnot , Hunsye , Yenden , Tean , Blith , Trent , Tyne , and Sowe ; whereof Trent is not only the principal , but in esteem accounted the third of this Land. ( 7 ) Stafford the Shire-Town , anciently B●theney , from Ber●elin , a reputed holy Man that therein lead an Hermits life , was built by King Edward the Elder , incorporated by King Iohn , and upon the East and South Parts was Walled and Trenched by the Barons of the Place : the rest from East to North was secured by a large Pool of Water , which now is become fair Meadow-grounds . The tract and circuit of these Walls extended to twelve hundred and forty Paces , thorow which four Gates into the four Winds have passage , the River Sowe running on the South and West of the Town . King Edward the Sixt did incorporate the Burgesses ▪ and gave them a perpetual Succession , whose Government in under two Bailiffs , yearly elected out of one and twenty Assistants , called the Common-Counsel , a Recorder , whereof the Dukes of Buckingham have born the Office , and as yet is kept a Court of Record , wherein they hold Plea without limitation of summe ; a Town-Clerk also , ( from whose Pen I received these Instructions ) and to attend them two Sergeants at Mace. This Town is sited in the degree of Latitude 53 , 20 scruples , and of Longitude 18 , and 40 scurples . ( 8 ) But Leichfield , more large , and of far greater fame , is much her ancient , known unto 〈◊〉 by the name of Licidfeld , which Rosse doth interpret to be The field of dead bodies , for the number of Saints under the rage of Dioclesian there slain : upon which cause the City beareth for her Arms an Eschucheon of Landskip , with divers Martyrs in divers manner Massacred . Here Oswin King of Northumberland overcoming the Pagan-Mercians , built a Church , and made it the See of Duma the Bishop : whose Successors grown rich , with golden reasons so overcame King Offa , and he Adrian the Pope , that an Archiepiscopal Pale was granted Bishop Eadulph , to the great disgrace of Lambert Archbishop of Canterbury . In this Church were interred the Bodie of VVulfhere and Celred , both of them Kings of the Mercians . But when the minds of Men were set altogether upon gorgeous building , this old Foundation was new reared Roger Clinton , Bishop this See , and dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Chad , and the Close inwalled by Bishop Langton . The government of this City is by two Bailiffs and one Sheriff , yearly chosen out of twenty four Burgess●s , a Recorder a Town-Clerck , and two Sergeants their Attendants ( 9 ) Houses of Religion erected in this Shire , were at Leichfield , Stafford , De la Crosse , Cruxden , Trentham , Burton , Tamworth , and VVolver-hampton . These Votaries abusing their Founders true pieties , and heaping up Riches with disdain of the Laity , laid themselves open as marks to be shot at : whom the hand of the skilful soon hit and quite pierced , under the aim of King Henry the Eighth , who with such Revenues in most places , relieved the Poor and the Orphans , with Schools and maintenace for the training up of Youth : a work no doubt more acceptable to God , and of more charitable use to the Land : ( 10 ) With thirteen Castles this County hath been strengthned , and in Thirteen Market-Towns her Commodities traded , being divided into five Hundreds , and in them seated one hundred and thirty Parish-Churches . Shropshire Petrus Kaerius caelavit . map of Shropshire SHROP-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXV . SHROP-SHIRE , is both large in circuit , well peopled , and very fruitful for life . It lyeth circulated upon the North with the County Palatine of Chester ; upon the East altogether with Stafford-shire ; upon the South with Worcester , Hereford , and Radnor-shire ; and upon the West with Mountgom●ry and Denbigh . ( 2 ) The form thereof is almost circular or round , whose length from Wooserton below Lodlane South , to Over neer unto the River Trent in the North , is thirty four miles : the broadest part is from Tong in the East , to Oswestre fited at the head of Morda in the West , twenty and five miles : the whole in circuit about , extending to one hundred thirty four miles . ( 3 ) Wholesome is the Air , delectable and good , yielding the Spring and the Autumn , Seed-time and Harvest , in a temperate condition , and affordeth health to the Inhabitants in all seasons of the year . ( 4 ) The Soil is rich , and standeth most upon a reddish Clay , abounding in Wheat and Barley , Pit-coals , Iron and Woods ; which two last continue not long in league together . It hath Rivers that make fruitful the Land , and in their Waters contain great store of fresh-fish , whereof Severn is the chief , and second in the Realm , whose stream cutteth this County in the midst , and with many winding sporteth her self forward , leaving both Pastures and Meadows bedecked with flowers and green colours , which every where she bestoweth upon such her attendants . ( 5 ) This River was once the bounds of the North-Britains , and divided their possession from the Land of the Saxons , until of latter times their began to decay , and the Welsh to increase , who enlarged their lists to the River Dee . So formerly had it separated the Ordovices from the Cornav●● , those ancient Inhabitants mentioned by Ptolomy . The Ordovices under Caractacus purchased great honour , whilst he a Prince of the Silures removed his Wars thence among them , where a while he maintained the Britains liberty with valour and courage , in despite of the Romans . His Fort is yet witness of his unfortunate Fight , seated near Clune-Castle , at the confluence of that River with Temd , where ( in remembrance of him ) the place is yet called Caer-Caradoc , a Fort of his won by P. Ostorius Lieutenant of the Romans , about the year of Grace 53. The Cornavii were seated upon the North of Severn , and branched into other Counties , of whom we have said . ( 6 ) But when the strength of the Romans was too weak to support their own Empire , and Britain emptied of her Souldiers to resist , the Saxons set foot in this most fair Soil , and made it a part of their Mercian Kingdom : their line likewise issued to the last period , and the Normans beginning where these Saxons left , the VVelshmen took advantage of all present occasions , and brake over Severn unto the River Dee ; to recover which , the Normans first Kings often assayed , and Henry the Second with such danger of Life , that at the Siege of Bridge-North he had been slain , had not Sir Hubert Syncler received the Arrow aimed at him , in stepping betwixt that Shaft and his Soveraign , and therewith was shot thorow unto death . In the like danger stood Henry Prince of Scotland , who in the strait Siege of Ludlow , begirt by King Stephen , had been plucked from his Saddle with an Iron-hook from the Wall , had not Stephen presently rescued him , Anno 1139. ( 7 ) This then being the Marches of England and VVales , was sore afflicted by bloody broils , which caused many of their Towns to be strongly walled , and thirty two Castles to be strongly built : Lastly , into this County the most wise King Henry the Seventh sent his eldest Son Prince Arthur , to be resident at Ludlow , where that fair Castle became a most famous Princes Court And here King Henry the Eight ordained the Council of the Marches , consisting of a Lord President as many Counsellors as the Prince shall please , a Secretary , an Attorney , a Soliciter , and four Iustices of the Counties in Wales , in whose Court were pleaded the Causes depending and termly tried for the most part in presence of that honourable President . ( 8 ) But the Shire-Town Shrewsbury , for circuit , trade and wealth , doth far exceed this , and is inferiour to few of our Cities , her buildings fair , her streets many and large , her Citizens rich , her trade for the most part in the Staple Commodities of Cloth and Freeses ; her Walls strong and of a large compass , extending to seventeen hundred pa●es about , besides another Bulwark ranging from the Castle , down unto and in part along the side of Severn : thorow which there are three entrances into the Town , East and West , over by two fair Stone-Bridges , with Towers , Gates and Bars , and the third into the North , no less strong than them over which is mounted a large Castle , whose gaping chinks do doubtless threaten her fall . This Town is governed by two Bailiffs , yearly elected out or twenty four Burgesses , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and Chamberlain , with three Sergeants at Mace : the Pole being raised hence from the degrees of Latitude 53 , 16 minutes , and from West in Longitude 17 degrees , 27 minutes . ( 9 ) Yea and ancienter Cities have been set in this Shire : such was R●xalter , or Wroxcester , lower upon Severn , that had been Vriconium , the chiefest City of the Cornavii ; Vfoc●nia , now Okenyate● near unto the Wrekin : and under Red-Castle the Ruins of a City , whom the Vulgar report to have been famous in Arthurs daies : but the pieces of Romish Coins in these three do well assure us that therein their Legions lodged ; as many other Trenches are signs of War and of Blood. But as Swords have been stirring in most parts of this Province , so Beads have been hid for the preservation of the whole , and places erected for the maintenance of Votaries in whom at that time was imputed great holiness ; in Shrewsbury many , at Coulmere , Stow , Dudley , Bromfield , Wigmore , Hamond , Lyleshill , Bildas , Bishops-Castle , and W●nloke , ( where in the Reign of Richard the Second , was likewise a rich Mine of Copper . But the same blasts that blew down the Buds of such Plants , scattered also the Fruits from these fair Trees , which never since bare the like , nor is likely any more to do . That only which is rare in this Province , is a Well at Pitchford in a private mans yard , whereupon floateth a thick Skum of liquid Bitumen which being clear off to day , will gather the like again on the Morrow : not much unlike to the Lake in the Land of Iewry . This Shire is divided into fifteen Hundreds , wherein are seated fourteen Market-Towns : and hath in it one hundred and seventy Churches for Gods sacred and divine Service . CHESTER Petrus Kaerius caeelavit . map of the County Palatine of Chester The County Palatine of CHESTER . CHAPTER XXXVI . CHESSE-SHIRE ; the County , Palatine of Chester , is parted upon the North from Lancashire with the River Mercey ; upon the East by Mercey , Goit , and the Dane , is separated from Dar●y and Stafford-shires : upon the South toucheth the Counties of Shrop-shire and Flint ; and upon the West with Dee is parted from Denbigh-shire . ( 2 ) The form of this County doth much resemble the right Wing of an Eagle , spreading it self from Wirall , and as it were with her Pinion , or first Feather , toucheth York-shire , betwixt which extreams , in following the windings of the Shires divider from East to West , are 47 miles ; and from North to South twenty six miles . The whole Circumference about one hundred forty two miles . ( 3 ) If the affection to my natural producer blind not the judgment of this my Survey , for Air and Soyl it equals the best , and far exceeds her Neighbours the next Counties : for although the Climate be cold , and toucheth the degree of Latitude 54 , yet the warmth from the Irish-Seas melteth the Snow , and dissolveth Ice sooner there then in those parts that are further off ; and so wholsome for life , that the Inhabitants generally attain to many years . ( 4 ) The Soyl is fat , fruitful and rich , yielding abundantly both profit and pleasures for Man. The Champion grounds make glad the hearts of their Tillers : The Meadows imbroydered with divers sweet smelling Flowers , and the Pasture makes the Kines Udder to strout to the Pail , from whom and wherein the best Cheese of all Europe is made . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants were the CORNAVII , who with Warwick-shire , Worcester-shire , Stafford-shire , and Shrop-shire , spread themselves further into this County , as in Ptolomy is placed ; and the Cangi likewise if they be the Cea●gi , whose remembrance was found upon the Shore of this Shire , on the surface of certain pieces of Lead , in this manner inscribed : IMP. DOMIT. AU. GER . DF CEANG. These Cangi were subdued by P. Ostorius Scapula , immediately before his great Victory against Caractacus , where in the mouth of Deva he built a Fortress at the back of the Ordovices , to restrain their power , which was great in those parts , in the Reign of Vespasian the Emperour . But after the departure of the Romans , this Province became a Portion of the Saxon-Mercians Kingdom : notwithstanding ( saith Ran Higdan ) the City it self was held by the Britains until all fell into the Monarchy of Egbert . Of the dispositions of the fince Inhabitants , hear Lucan the Monk ( who lived prelently after the Conquest ) speak ; They are found ( saith he ) to differ from the rest of the English , partly better , and partly equal . In feasting they are friendly , at meat chearful , in entertainment liberal , soon a●gry , and soon pacified , lavish in words , impatient of servitude , merciful to the afflicted , compassionate to the poor , kind to their kindred , spary of labour , void of dissimulation , not greedy in eating , and far from dangerous practises . And let me add thus much , which Lucian could not : namely , that this Shire hath never been stained with the blot of Rebellion , but ever stood true to their King and his Crown : whose loyalty Richard the Second so far found and esteemed , that he held his Person most safe among them and by the Authority of Parliament made the County to be a Principality , and stiled himself Prince of Chester . King Henry the Third gave it to his eldest Son Prince Edward , against whom Lewlin Prince of Wales gathered a mighty Band , and with them did the County much harm , even unto the Cities Ga●es . With the like scare-fires it had oft times been affrighted , which the ylast●y defenced with a Wall made of the Welsh-mens Heads , on the South side of Dee in Hambridge . The Shire may well be said to be a Seed-plot of Gentility , and the producer of many most ancient and worthy Families : neither hath any brought more men of valour into the Field , , than Chess-shire hath done , who by a general speech , are to this day called , The chief of Men : and for Natures endowments ( besides their nobleness of minds ) may compare with any other Nation in the World : their Limbs straight and well-composed , their complexions fair , with a chearful countenance ; and the Women for grace , feature , and beauty inferiour unto none . ( 6 ) The Commodities of of this Province ( by the report of Ranulphus the Monk of Chester ) are chiefly Corn , Cattle , Fish , Fowl , Salt , Mines , Metals , Mears and Rivers , whereof the Banks of Dee in her West , and the Vale-Royal in her midst , for fruitfulness of pasturage equals any other in the Land , either in grain or gain from the Cow. ( 7 ) These , with all other provision for life , are traded thorow thirteen Market-Towns in this Shire , whereof Chester is the fairest , from whom the Shire hath the name . A City raised from the Fort of Ostorius , Lieutenant of Britain for Claudius the Emperour , whither the twentieth Legion ( named Victrix . ) was sent by Galba to restrain the Britains : but grown themselves out of order , Iulius Agricola was appointed their General by Vespasian , as appeareth by Moneys then Minted , and there found ; and from them ( no doubt ) by the Britains the place wa● called Cder-Legion , by Ptolomy , Denan● ; by Antonine , Dena , and now by us West-Chester but Henry Bradshaw will have it built before Brute , by the Giant Leon Gaver , a Man beyond the Moon , and called by Marius the vanquisher of the Picts . Over Deva or Dee a fair Stone-bridge leadeth , built upon eight Arches , at either end whereof is a Gate , from whence in a long Quadrant-wise the Walls do incompass the City , high and strongly built , with four fair Gates , opening into the four Winds , besides three 〈◊〉 , and seven Watch-Towers , extending in compass one thousand nine hundred and forty paces . On the South of this City is mounted a strong and stately Castle , round in form , and the base Court likewise inclosed with a circular Wall. In the North is the Minster , first built by Earl Leofrike to the honour of S. Werburga the Virgin , and after most sumptuously repaired by Hugh the first Earl of Chester of the Normans , now the Cathedral of the Bishops See. Therein lyeth interred ( as report doth relate ) the body of Henry the Fourth , Emperour of Almane , who leaving his Imperial Estate , lead lastly therein an Hermites life . This City hath formerly been sore defaced ; first by Egfrid King of Northumberland , where he slew twelve hundred Christian Monks , resorted thither from Bangor to pray . Again by the Danes it was sore defaced , when their destroying feet had trampled down the beauty of the Land. But was again rebuilt by Edelfleada the Mercian Lady , who in this County , and Forrest of Delamer , built two fine Cities , nothing of them now remaining , besides the Chamber in the Forrest . Chester in the daies of King Edgar was in most flourishing estate , wherein he had the homage of eight other Kings , who rowed his Barge from S. Iohns to his Palace , himself holding the Helm , as their Supream . This City was made a County incorporate of it self by King Henry the Seventh , and is yearly governed by a Major , with Sword and Mace born before him in State , two Sheriffs , twenty four Aldermen , a Recorder , a Town-Clerk , and a Serjeant of Peace , four Sergeants , and six ●eomen . It hath been accounted the Key into Ireland , and great pity it is that the Port should decay as it daily doth , the Sea being stopped to secure the River by a Causey that thwarteth Dee at her bridge . Within the Walls of the City are eight Parish-Churches , St. Iohns the greater and lesser : in the Suburbs are the VVhite-Fryers , Black-Fryers , and Nunnery now suppressed . From which City the Pole is elevated unto the degree 53 , 58 minutes of Latitude , and from the first point of the West in Longitude unto the 17 degree and 18 minutes . ( 8 ) The Earldom whereof was possessed from the Conquerour , till it fell lastly to the Crown , the last of whom ( though not with the least hopes ) is Prince Henry , who to the Titles of Prince of VVales , and Duke of Cornwall , hath by Succession and Right of Inheritance , the Earld●m of Chester annexed to his most happy Stiles : Upon whose Person I pray that the Angels of Iacobs God may ever attend , to his great glory , and Great Britains happiness . ( 9 ) If I should urge credit unto the report of certain Trees , floating in Bagmere only against the deaths of the Heirs of the Breretons thereby seated , and after to sink until the next like occasion : or inforce for truth the Prophesie which Leyland in a Poetical fury forespake of Beeston-Castle , highly mounted upon a steep Hill : I should forget my self and wonted opinion that can hardly believe any such vain Predictions , though they be told from the mouths of Credit , as Bagmere-Trees are , or learned Leyland for Beesson , who thus writeth : The day will come when it again shall mount his head aloft . If I a Prophet may be heard from Seers that say so oft . With eight other Castles this Shire hath been strengthened , which were Ould-Castle , Shocloch , Sho●witch , Chester , Pouldford , Dunham , Frodesham , and Haulten : and by the Prayers ( as then was taught ) of eight Religious Houses therein seated , preserved ; which by King Henry the Eight were suppressed ; ●●amely , Stanlow , Ilbree , Maxfeld , Norton , Bunbery , Combermere , Rud-neath , and Vale-Royal , besides the VVhite and black Fri●rs , and the Nunnery in Chester . This Counties division is into seven Hundreds , wherein are seated thirteen Market-Towns , eighty five Parish-Churches and thirty-eight Chappels of Ease . Lancaster map of the County Palatine of Lancaster LANCA-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXVII . THE County Palatine of Lancaster ( famous for the four Henries , the fourth , fifth , sixth , and seventh , Kings of England , derived from Iohn of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster ) is upon the South , confined and parted by the River Mersey , from the County Palatine of Chester ; the fair County of Darby-shire bordering upon the East ; the large County of York-shire together with Westmerland and Cumberland , being her kind neighbours upon the North , and the Sea called Mare Hibernicum , embracing her upon the West . ( 2 ) The form thereof is long , for it is so inclosed between York-shire on the East side , and the Irish-Sea on the West , that where it boundeth upon Cheshire on the South-side , it is broader , and by little and little more Northward it goeth ( confining upon Westmerland ) the more narrow it groweth . It containeth in length from Brathey Northward , to Halwood Southward , fifty seven miles ; from Denton in the East , to Formby by Altmouth in the West , thirty one ; and the whole circumference in compass , one hundred threescore and ten miles . ( 3 ) The Air is subtile and piercing , not troubled with gross vapours or foggy mists , by reason whereof the People of that Country live long and healthfully , and are not subject to strange and unknown diseases . ( 4 ) The Soil for the generality is not very fruitful , yet it produceth such numbers of Cattel of such large proportion , and such goodly heads , and horns , as the whole Kingdom of Spain doth scarce the like . It is a Country replenished with all necessaries for the use of Man , yielding without any great labour , the commodity of Corn , Flax , Grass , Coals , and such like . The Sea also addeth her blessing to the Land , that the People of that Province want nothing that serveth either for the sustenance of Nature , or the satiety of appetite . They are plentifully furnished with all sorts of Fish , Flesh , and Fowls . Their principal Fuell is Coal and Turff , which they have in great abundance , the Gentlemen reserving their Woods very carefully , as a beauty and principal ornament to their Mannors and Houses . And though it be far from ●ondon , ( the Capital City of this Kingdom ) yet doth it every year furnish her and many other parts of the Land besides , with many thousands of Cattel ( bred in this Country ) giving thereby , and other ways , a firm testimony to the World , of the blessed abundance that it hath pleased God to enrich this noble Dukedom withall . ( 5 ) This Counties ancient Inhabitants were the Brigantes , of whom there is more mention in the description of York-shire , who by Claudius the Emperour were brought under the Roman subjection , that so held aud made it their Seat , secured by their Garrisons , as hath been gathered as well by many Inscriptions found in Walls and ancient Monuments fixed in Stones , as by certain Altars erected in favour of their Emperours . After the Romans , the Saxons brought it under their protection , and held it for a part of their Northumbrian Kingdom , till it was first made subjugate to the Invasion of the Danes , and then conquered by the victorious Normans , whose Posterities from thence are branched further into England . ( 6 ) Places of antiquity or memorable note are these : the Town of Manchester ( so famous , as well for the Market-Place , Church and Colledge , as for the resort unto it for Clothing ) was called Man●unium by Antonine the Emperour , and was made a Fort and Station of the Romans . Riblechester ( which taketh the name from R●ibell , a little River near Clith●r● ) though it be a small Town , yet by Tradition hath been called the richest Town in Christendom , and reported to have been the Seat of the Romans , which the many Monuments of their Antiquities , Statues , Pieces of Coin , and other several Inscriptions , digg'd up from time to time by the Inhabitants , may give us sufficient perswasion to believe . But the Shire Town is Lancaster , more pleasant in situation , than rich of Inhabitants , built on the South of the River Lon , and is the same Longovicum , where ( as we find in the Noti●e Provinces ) a company of the Longovicarians under the Lieutenant General of Britain lay . The beauty of this Town is in the Church , Castle , and Bridge : her Streets many , and stretched fair in length . Unto this Town King Edward the Third granted a Mayor and two Bailiffs , which to this day are elected out of twelve Brethren , assisted by twenty four Burgesses , by whom it is yearly governed , with the supply of two Chamberlains , a Recorder , Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants at Mace. The elevation of whose Pole is in the degree of Latitude 54 and 58 scruples , and her Longitude removed from the West point unto the degree 17 and 40 scruples . ( 7 ) This Country in divers places suffereth the force of many flowing Tides of the Sea , by which ( after a sort ) it doth violently rent asunder one part of the Shire from the other : as in Fourness , where the Ocean being displeased that the shore should from thence shoot a main way into the West , hath not obstinately ceased from time to time to slash and mangle it , and with his Fell irruptions and boysterous Tides to devour it . Another thing there is , not unworthy to be recommended to memory that in this Shire , not far from Fo●rness-Felles , the greatest standing water in all England ( called Winander Mere ) lieth , stretched out for the space of ten miles , of wonderful depth , and all paved with stone in the bottom : and along the Sea-side in many places may be seen heaps of sand , upon which the People pour water until it recover a saltish humour , which they afterwards boil with Turffs , till it become white Salt. ( 8 ) This Country , as it is thus on the one side freed by the natural resistance of the Sea from the force of Invasions , so is it strengthened on the other by many Castles , and fortified places , that take away the opportunity of making Roads and Incursions in the Country . And as it was with the first that felt the fury of the Saxons cruelty , so was it the last and longest that was subdued under the W●st-Saxons Monarchy . ( 9 ) In this Province our noble Arthur ( who died laden with many Trophies of honour ) is reported by Ninius to have put the Saxons to flight in a memorable Battel near Duglasse , a little Brook not far from the Town of Wiggin . But the attemps of War , as they are several , so they are uncertain ; for they made not Duke Wade happy in his success , but returned him an unfortunate enterpriser in the Battel which he gave to Ardulph King of Northumberland at Billango , in the year 798. So were the events uncertain in the Civil Wars of York and Lancaster : for by them was bred and brought forth that bloody division , and fatal strife of the Noble Ho●ses , that with variable success to both Parties ( for many years together ) molested the peace and quiet of the Land , and defiled the earth with blood , in such violent manner , that it exceeded the horror of those Civil Wars in Rome , that were betwixt Marius and Scylla , Pompey and Caesar , Octavius and Antony ; or that of the two renowned Houses Valoys and Burbon , that a long time troubled the State of France : for in the division of these two Princely Families there were thirteen Fields fought , and three Kings of England , one Prince of Wales , twelve Dukes , one Marquess , eighteen Earls , one Vicount , and three and twenty Barons , besides Knights and Gentlemen , lost their lives in the same . Yet at last by the happy Marriage of Henry the Seventh , King of England , next Heir to the House of Lancaster , with Elizabeth daughter and Heir to Edward the Fourth , of the House of York , the white and red Roses were conjoyned in the happy uniting of those two divided Families , from whence our thrice renowned Soveraign Lord King Iames , by fair sequence and succession , doth worthily enjoy the D●adem : by the benefit of whose happy government , this County Palatine of Lancaster is prosperou● in her Name and Greatness . ( 10 ) I find the remembrance of four Religious Houses that have been founded within this County ( and since suppressed ) both fair for Structure and Building , and rich for seat and Situation : namely , Burstogh , VVhalleia , Holland , and Penwortham . It is divided into six Hundreds , besides Fourness Felles , and Lancasters Liberties , that lie in the North part . It is beautified with fifteen Market-Towns , both fair for situation and building , and famous for the concourse of people for buying and selling . It hath twenty six Parishes , besides Chappels , ( in which they duly frequent to Divine Service ) and those populous , as in no part of the Land more . York SHIRE map of Yorkshire YORK-SHIRE . CHAPTER XXXVIII . AS the courses and confluents of great Rivers , are for the most part fresh in memory , though their heads and fountains lie commonly unknown : so the latter knowledg of great Regions , are not traduced to oblivion , though perhaps their first originals be obscure , by reason of Antiquity , and the many revolutions of times and ages . In the delineation therefore of this great Province of York-shire , I will not insist upon the narration of matters near unto us ; but succinctly run over such as are more remote : yet neither so sparingly , as I may seem to diminish from the dignity of so worthy a Country ; nor so prodigally , as to spend time in superfluous praising of that which never any ( as yet ) dispraised . And although perhaps it may seem a labour unnecessary , to make relation of ancient remembrances either of the Name or Nature of this Nation , especially looking into the difference of Time it self ( which in every age bringeth forth divers effects ) and the dispositions of men , that for the most part take less pleasure in them , than in divulging the occurrents of their own times : yet I hold it not unfit to begin there , from whence the first certain direction is given to proceed ; for ( even of these ancient things ) there may be good use made , either by imitation , or way of comparison , as neither the reperition , nor the repetition thereof shall be accounted impertinent . ( 2 ) You shall therefore understand : That the County of York was in the Saxon-tongue called Ebona ycyne , and now commonly York-shire , far greater and more numerous in the Circuit of her miles , than any Shire of England . She is much bound to the singular love and motherly care of Nature , in placing her under so temperate a clime , that in every measure she is indifferently fruitful . If one part of her be stone , and a sandy barren ground : another is fertile and richly adorned with Corn-fields . If you here find it naked , and destitute of Woods , you shall see it there shadowed with Forrests full of Trees , that have very thick bodies , sending forth many fruitful and profitable branches - If one place of it be Moorish , miry , and unpleasant ; another makes a free tender of delight , and presents it self to the Eye , full of beauty and contentive variety . ( 3 ) The Bishoprick of Durham fronts her on the North-side , and is separated by a continued course of the River Tees . The German-Sea lyeth sore upon her East-side , beating the shores with her boisterous Waves and Billows . The West part is bounded with Lancashire , and Westmerland . The South-side hath Cheshire and Darby-shire ( friendly Neighbours unto her ) with the which she is first inclosed : then with Nottingham and with Lincoln-shires : after divided with that famous Arm of the Sea Humber ; Into which all the Rivers that water this Country , empty themselves , and pay their ordinary Tributes , as into the common receptacle and store-house of Neptune , for all the watry Pensions of this Province . ( 4 ) This whole Shire ( being of it self so spacious ) for the more easie and better ordering of her Civil Government , is divided into three parts : which according to three quarters of the World , are called , The West-Riding , The East-Riding , and The North-Riding . West-Riding is for a good space compassed with the River Ouse , with the bounds of Lancashire , and with the South limits of the Shire , and beareth towards the West and South . East-Riding bends it self to the Ocean , with the which , and with the River Derwent she is inclosed , and looks into that part where the Sun rising , and shewing forth his Beams , makes the World both glad and glorious in his brightness . North-Riding extends it self Northward , hemmed in as it were with the River Tees and Derwent , and a long race of the River Ouse . The length of this Shire , extended from Horthill in the South , to the mouth of Tees in the North , are neer unto seventy miles , the breadth from Flambrough-head to Horn-Castle upon the River Lu● , is fourscore miles ; the whole Circumference is three hundred and eight miles . ( 5 ) The Soil of this County for the generality is reasonable fertile , and yields sufficiency of Corn and Cattle within it self . One part whereof is particularly made famous by a Quarry of Stone , out of which the stones newly hewn be very soft , but seasoned with wind and weather of themselves do naturally become exceeding hard and solid . Another , by a kind of Limstone whereof it consisteth , which being burnt , and conveyed into the other parts of the Country , which are hilly and somewhat cold , serve to manure and enrich their Corn fields . ( 6 ) That the Romans flourishing in military prowess , made their several stations in this Country , is made manifest by their Monuments , by many Inscriptions fastned in the Walls of Churches , by many Columns engraven with Roman work lying in Church-yards , by many votive Altars digg'd up that were erected ( as it should seem ) to their Tutelar Gods ( for they had local and peculiar Topick Gods , whom they honoured as Keepers and Guardians of some particular Places of the Country ) as also by a kind of Brick which they used : for the Romans in time of peace , to avoid and withstand idleness ( as an enemy to vertuous and valorous enterprises ) still exercised their Legions and Cohorts in casting of Ditches , making of High-ways , building of Bridges , and making of Bricks , which having sithence been found , and from time to time digg'd out of the ground , prove the Antiquity of the place by the Roman Inscriptions upon them . ( 7 ) No less argument of the piety hereof , are the many Monasteries , Abbeys and Religious Houses that have been placed in this Country ; which whilest they retained their own state and magnificence , were great ornaments unto it : but since their dissolution , and that the Teeth of Time ( which devours all things ) have eaten into them , they are become like dead Carkasses ▪ leaving only some poor Ruins and Remains alive , as Reliques to Posterity , to shew of what beauty and magnitude they have been . Such was the Abbey of Whitby , founded by Lady Hilda , daughter of the grand-child unto King Edwine . Such was the Abbey built by Bolton , which is now so razed and laid level with the earth , as that at this time it affords no appearance of the former dignity . Such was Kirks●alt Abbey , of no small account in time past , founded in the year of Christ 1147. Such was the renowned Abbey called S. Maries in York , built and endowed with rich livings by Ala● the third Earl of Lit●●● Britain in America ; but since converted into the Princes House , and is called The Mannor . Such was the wealthy Abbey of Eo●n●ains , built by Thurstan Archbishop of York . Such was the famous Monastery founded in the Primitive Church of the East-Saxons , by Wilfrid Archbishop of York , and enlarged ( being faln down and decayed ) by Od● Archbishop of Canterbury . Such was Drax , a Religious House of Canons . Such , that fair Abbey built by King William the Conqueror at Selby ( where his Son Henry the first was born ) in memory of Saint German , who happily confuted that contagious Pel●gia● Heresie , which oftentimes grew to a Serpentine head in Britain . These places for Religion erected , with many more within this Provincial Circuit , and consecrated unto holy purposes , shew the antiquity , and how they have been sought unto by confluences of Pilgrims in their manner of Devotions : The mists of which superstitious obscurities , are since cleared by the pure light of the Gospel revealed , and the skirts of Idolatry unfolded to her own shame and ignominy : And they made subject to the dissolution of Times , serving only as antique Monuments and remembrances to the memory of succeeding Ages . ( 8 ) Many places of this Province are famous as well by Name , being naturally fortunate in their situation , as for some other accidental happiness befaln unto them . Hallifax , famous , as well for that Ioha●nes de sacr● Bost● , Author of the Sphere , was born there , and for the Law it hath against stealing , and for the greatness of the Parish , which reckoneth in it eleven Chappels , whereof two be Parish Chappels , and in them to the number of twelve thousand People . In former times it was called Horton , and touching the alteration of the name , this pretty story is related of it ; namely , That a Clerk ( for so they call him ) being far in love with a Maid , and by no means either of long praises or large promises , able to gain like affection at her hands , when he saw his hopes frustrate , and that he was not like to have his purpose of her , turned his love in rage , and cut off the Maids head , which being afterwards hung upon an Ewe-tree , common people counted it as an hallowed Relique till it was rotten : And afterwards ( such was the credulity of that time ) it maintained the opinion of reverence and Religion still : for the People resorted thither on Pilgrimage , and perswaded themselves , that the little Veins that spread out between the Bark and Body of the Ewe trees like fine threds , were the very Hairs of the Maids head . Hereupon it was called by this name Haligfax , or Halyfax , that is , Haly Hayre . Pomfret is famous for the Site , as being seated in a place so pleasant , that it brings forth Liqu●rice and great plenty of Skirtworts , but it is infamous for the murther and bloodshed of Princes : The Castle whereof was built by Hilde●●rt Laty , a Norman , to whom William the Conqueror gave this Town , after Alrick the Saxon was thrust out of it . ( 9 ) But I will sorbear to be prolix or tedious in the particular memoration of places in a Pr●vince so spacious , and only make a compendious relation of York , the second City of England , in Latine called Eboracum and Eburacum ; by Ptolomy , Brigantium ( the chief City of the Brigants ) by Ninius , Caer Ebrauc ; by the Britains , Caer Effroc . The British History reports that it took the Name of Ebrau● that founded it ; but some others are of opinion , that Eburacum hath no other derivation than from the River Ous● running thorow it : It over-masters all the other places of this Country for fairness , and is a singular ornament and safeguard to all the North-parts . A pleasant place , large , and full of magnificence , rich , populous , and not only strengthened with fortifications , but adorned with beautiful buildings , as well private as publick . For the greater dignity thereof , it was made an Episcopal See by Constantius , and a Metropolitane City by a Pall sent unto it from Ho●●rius Egbert Arch-bishop of York , who flourished about the year seven hundred forty erected in it a most famous Library . Richard the third repaired the Castle thereof being ruinous , and King Henry the eight appointed a Council in the same , to decide and determine all the Causes and Controversies of the North parts , according to Equity and Conscience : which Council consisteth of a Lord President , certain Counsellors at the Princes pleasure , a Secretary , and other Under-Officers . The original of this City cannot be fetcht out but from the Romans , seeing the Britains before the Romans came , had no other Towns than Woods fenched with Trenches and Rampiers , as Caesar and Strabo do testifie . And that it was a Colony of the Romans , appears both by the Authority of Ptolomy and Antonine , and by many ancient Inscriptions that have been found there . In this City the Emperor Severus had his Palace , and here gave up his last breath ; which ministers occasion to shew the ancient custom of the Romans , in the military manner of their burials . His body was carried forth here by the Souldiers to the funeral fire , and committed to the flames , honoured with the ●usts and Turnaments both of the Souldiers , and of his own Sons : His ashes bestowed in a little golden pot or vessel of the Porphyrat stone , were carried to Rome , and shrined there in the Monument of the Antonines . In this City ( as Spartianus maketh mention ) was the Temple of the Goddess B●llona ; to which Severu● ( being come thither purposing to offer Sacrifice ) was erroniously led by a rustical Augur . Here Fl. Valerius Co●stantius , surnamed Choru● ( an Emperour of excellent vertue and Christian Piety ) ended his life , and was Deified as appears by ancient Coins : and his Son Constantine being present at his Fathers death ; forthwith proclaimed Emperour ; from whence it may be gathered of what great estimation York was in those days , when the Romans Emperours Court was held in it . This City flourished a long time under the English-Saxons Dominion , till the Da●es , like a mighty Storm , thundering from out of the North-East , destroyed it , and distrained it with the blood of many slaughtered persons , and wan it from Olbright and Ella Kings of No●thumberland , who were both stain in their pursuit of the Danes : which Alcuine in his Epistle to Egelred King of Northumberland , seemed to presage before , when he said ; What signifieth that raining down of blood in St. Peters Church of York , even in a fair day , and descending in so violent and threatning a manner from the top of the roof ? may it not be thought that blood is coming upon the Land from the North parts ? Howbeit Athelstane recovered it from the Dantsh subjection , and quite overthrew the Castle with the which they had fortified it ; yet was it not ( for all this ) so freed from Wars , but that it was subject to the Times fatally next following . Nevertheless in the Conquerors time , when ( after many woful overthrows and troublesom storms ) it had a pleasant calm of ensuing Peace , it rose again of it self , and flourished afresh , having still the helping hand of Nobility and Gentry , to recover the former dignity , and bring it to the perfection it hath . The Citizens senced it round with new Walls , and many Towers and Bulwarks , and ordaining good and wholsome Laws for the government of the same : Which at this day are executed at the command of a Lord Mayor , who hath the assistance of twelve Aldermen , many Chamberlains , a Recorder , a Town-Clerk , six Sergeants at Mace , and two Esquires , which are , a Sword-bearer , and the Common Sergeant , who with a great Mace goeth on the left hand of the Sword. The Longitude of this City , according to Mercators account , is ●9 degrees , and 35 scruples : the Latitude 54 degrees and forty scruples . ( 10 ) Many occurents present themselves with sufficient matter of enlargement to this discourse , yet none of more worthy consequence than were those several Battels , fought within the compass of this County ; wherein Fortune had her pleasure as well in the proof of her love , as in the pursuit of her tyranny ; sometime sending the fruits of sweet peace unto her , and other whiles suffering her to taste the sowreness of War. At Conisborough ( in the Britain Tongue Ca●r-Conan ) was a great Battel fought by Hengist , Captain of the English-Saxons , after he had retired himself thither for his safety , his men being fled and scattered , and himself discomfited by Aurelius Ambrosius ; yet within few days after , he brought forth his men to Battel against the Britains that pursued him , where the field was bloody both to him and his ; for many of his men were cut in pieces , and he himself had his head chopt off , as the British History saith ; which the Chronicles of the English-Saxons deny , reporting that he died in peace , being surcharged and over-worn with the troublesom toils and travels of War. Neer unto Kirkstall , Oswie King of Northumberland put P●nda the Mercian to flight : the place wherein the Battel was joyned , the Writers call Winwid-Field , giving it the name by the Victory : And the little Region about it ( in times past called by an old name Elmet ) was conquered by Eadwin King of Northumberland , the son of Aela , after he had expelled Cereticus a British King , in the year of Christ , 620. At Casterford ( called by Antonine Legiotium and Legetium ) the Citizens of York slew many of King Ethelreds Army , and had a great hand against him , in so much as he that before sat in his Throne of Majesty , was on a sudden daunted , and ready to offer submission . But the most worthy of memory , was that Field fought on Palm Sunday , 1461. in the quarrel of Lancaster and York , where England never saw more puissant Forces both of Gentry and Nobility : for there were in the Field at one time ( partakers on both sides ) to the number of one hundred thousand fighting men . When the fight bad continued doubtful a great part of the day , the Lancastrians not able longer to abide the violence of their enemies , turned back and fled amain , and such as took part with York , followed them so hotly in chase , and killed such a number of Nobles and Gentlemen , that thirty thousand Englishmen were that day left dead in the Field . ( 11 ) Let us now loose the point of this Compass , and sail into some other parts of this Province , to find out matter of other memorable moment . Under Knausbrough there is a Well called Dropping Well , in which the waters spring not out of the veins of the earth , but distill and trickle down from the Rocks that hang over it : It is of this vertue and efficacy , that it turns Wood into Stone : for what Wood soever is put into it , it will be shortly covered over with a stony bark , and be turned into Stone , as hath been often observed . At Giggleswick also about a mile from Settle ( a Market-Town ) there are certain small Springs not distant a quaits cast from one another : the middlemost of which doth at every quarter of an hour ebb and flow about the height of a quarter of a yard when it is highest , and at the ebb falleth so low , that it is not an inch deep with water . Of no less worthiness to be remembred is St. Wilfrids Needle , a place very famous in times past for the narrow hole in the close vaulted room under the ground , by which womens honesties were wont to be tried , for such as were chaste pass thorow with much facility ; but as many as had plaid false , were miraculously held fals● , and could not creep thorow . Believe if you list . The credible report of a Lamp found burning ( even in our Fathers remembrance , when Abbeys were pulled and suppressed ) in the Sepulchre of Constantius , within a certain Vault or little Chappel under the ground , wherein he was supposed to have been buried , might beget much wonde● and admiration , but that Lazius confirmeth , that in ancient times they had custom to preserve light in Sepul●hres , by an artificial resolving of Gold into a liquid and fatty substance , which should continue burning a long time , and for many ages together . ( 12 ) This York-shire Picture I will draw to no more length , lest I be condemned with the Sophister , for insisting in the praise of Hercules , when no man opposed himself in his discommendation . This Country of it self is so beautiful in her own natural colours , ( that without much help ) she presents delightful varieties both to the sight and other senses . The Bishipprick oF DURHAM map of the bishoprick of Durham The BISHOPRICK of DURHAM . CHAPTER XXXIX . THe Bishoprick of Durham , containeth those parts and Town-ships that lie betwixt the River Tees and Derwent , and all along the German Seas . It is neighboured on the North with Northumberland , and their Iurisdictions parted by the River Derwent : her West is touched by Cumberland , Westmorland , and from Stain-More divided by the River Tees , and by the same water on her South , from York-shire even unto the Sea ; and the East is altogether coasted by the German-Seas . ( 2 ) The form thereof is triangular , and sides not much differing ; for from her South-East , unto the West-point , are about thirty miles : from thence to her North-east and Tyne-mouth , are likewise as many , and her base along the Sea shore are twenty-three miles ; the whole in circumference , about one hundred and three miles . ( 3 ) The Air is sharp and very piercing , and would be more , were it not that the vapours from the German-Seas did help much to dissolve her Ice and Snow ; and the store of Coals therein growing and gotten , do warm the body , and keep back the cold ; which fewel besides their own use , doth yield great commodities unto this Province ▪ by trade thereof into other parts . ( 4 ) For Soil , it consisteth much alike of Pastures , Arable , and barren grounds ; the East is the richest and most champion , the South more moorish , but well inhabited ; her West all rocky , without either Grass or Grain , notwithstanding recompenceth her possess●rs with as great gain , both in rearing up Cattel , and bringing forth Coal , whereof all this County is plentifully stored , and groweth so near to the upper face of the earth , that in the trod-ways the Cart-wheels do turn up the same . Some hold their substance to be a clammy kind of clay hardned with heat abounding in the earth , and so becoming concocted , is nothing else but Bitumen ; for proof whereof , these Coals have both the like smell and operation of Bitumen : for being sprinkled with water , they burn more vehemently , bu● with oyl are quite extinguished and put out . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants known unto Ptolomy , were the Brigantes , of whom we have spoken in the General of York-shire , they being subdued by the Romans ; after whom the Saxons made it a part of their Northumberland Kingdom ; at first a Province belonging to the Deirians , and enjoyed by Ella their first King ; afterwards invaded by the Danes , and lastly possessed by the Normans : whose site being so near unto Scotland , hath many times felt their fury , and hath been as a Buckler betwixt them and the English ; for which cause the Inhabitants have certain freedoms , and are not charged with service as other Counties are , so that this with Westmorland , Cumberland , and Northumberland , are not divided into hundreds in those Parliament Rolls whence I had the rest ; which want I must leave for others to supply . ( 6 ) Over this County , the Bishops thereof have had the Royalties of Princes ; and the Inhabitants have pleaded priviledge not to pass in service of War over the River of Tees or Tyne ; whose charge ( as they have alledged ) was to keep and defend the Corps of S. Cuthbert their great adored Saint , and therefore they termed themselves , The holy work folks . And the repute of this Cuthbert and his supposed defence against the Scots was such , that our English Kings in great devotion have gone in Pilgrimage to visite his Tomb , and have given many large possessions to his Church : such were King Egfred , Aelfred , and Guthrun the Dane , Edward and Athelstane Monarch of England , and zealous Canu●e , the greatest of all , who came thither bare-footed , and at Cuthberts Tomb both augmented and confirmed their Liberties . This Saint then , of nothing made Durham become great , and William the Conquerour , of a Bishoprick made it a County Palatine : at that time William Cereceph , Bishop of the Diocess , pulled down the old Church which Aldwin had built , and with sumptuous cost laid the foundation of a new , wherein S. Cuthberts Shrine in the vacancy of the Bishops , was the Keep●er of the Castle-Keys . In the West of this Church , and place called Gallile , the Marble-Tomb of venerable Beda remaineth , who was born at Iarr● in this County , and became a Monk at Weremouth , whose painful industrie and light of learning in those times of darkness are wonderful , as the Volums which he wrote do well declare : And had the idle Monks of England imployed their time after his example , their Founders expectations had not been frustrate , nor those Foundations so easily overturned . But the revenge of sin ever following the actions of sins , dissolved first the largeness of this Counties liberties , under the Raign of King Edward the First , and since hath shaken to pieces those places herein erected under the Raign of King Henry ●he Eight : such were Durham , Sherborne , Stayndrop , Iarro , Weremouth , and Egleton ; all which felt the reward of their idleness , and wrath of him that is jealous of his own honour . ( 7 ) Things of rare note observed in this Shire , are three pits of a wonderful depth , commonly called the Hell-Kettles , which are adjoyning neer unto Darlington , whose waters are somewhat warm . These are thought to come of an Earth-quake , which happened in the year of Grace 1179 , whereof the 〈◊〉 of Ti●-mouth maketh mention , whose record is this : On Christmass-day , at Oxenhall in the Territory of Darlington , within the Bishoprick of Durham , the ground heaved up aloft , like unto an high Tower , and so continued all that day , as it were unmoveable , until the evening ; and then fell with so horrible a noise , that it made all the neighbour dwellers sore afraid : and the earth swallowed it up , and made in the same place a deep pit , which is there to be seen for a testimony unto this day . ( 8 ) Of no less admiration are certain Stones lying within the River Were , at Butterbee 〈◊〉 Durham ; from whose sides at the Ebb and low Water in the Summer , issueth a certain salt 〈◊〉 water , which with the Sun waxeth white , and growing into a thick substance , becometh a necessary Salt to the use of the by-dwellers . ( 9 ) And places of elder times had in account by the Romans , were Benovium , now Bi●chester , and Condercum , Chester in the street , where their monies have been digged up , and at Condercum so much , that Egelrick Bishop of Durham was therewith made exceeding rich . This County hath been strengthened with seven strong Castles , is yet traded with six Market-Towns , and Gods divine honour in one hundred and eighteen Parish-Churches celebrated . Westmorland and Comberlād map of Westmoreland and Cumberland VVESTMORLAND . CHAPTER XL. WESTMORLAND , by some late Latine Writers is called Westmaria , and Westmorlandia , by some later Westmoria , and in our English Tongue Westmorland . It came to be thus named in our language by the situation , which in every part is so plenteously full of Moors and high Hills , reaching one to another , that Westmorland ( with us ) is nothing else but a Western moorish Country . Having on the and North-side Cumberland , on the South part Lanca-shire , on the East-side York-shire , and the Bishoprick of Durham . ( 2 ) The length thereof extended from Burton in her South , to Kirkland in her North part is 30 miles : the broadest part from East to West , is from the River Eden to Dunbal raise stones , containing 24 miles , the whole circumference about 112 miles . ( 3 ) The form thereof is somewhat long and narrow : the Air sharp and piercing , purging it self from the trouble of gross foggy mists , and vapours , by reason of which the people of this Province are not acquainted with strange diseases or imperfections of body , but live long , and are healthful , and at●ain to the number of many years . ( 4 ) The Soil for the most part of it is but barren , and can hardly be brought to any fruitfulness , by the industry and painful labour of the husbandman , being so full of infertile places , which the Norteern Englishme● call Moors ; yet the more Southerly part is not reported to be so sterile , but more fruitful in the Vallies , though contained in a narrow room , between the River Lone , and Winander-mear , and it is all termed by one name . The Barony of K●●dale or Ca●dale , that is , the dale by Can , taking the name of the River Can , that runs through it . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this County were the Brigantes , mentioned in the several Counties of York ▪ Lancaster and Cumberland . ( 6 ) It is not commended either for plenty of Corn or Cattel , being neither stored with Arable Grounds to bring forth the one , nor pasturage to breed up the other : the principle profit that the People of this Province raise unto themselves , is by Cloathing . ( 7 ) The chiefest place of which is Kandale or Kendale , called also Kirkeby Kendale , standing on the Bank of the River Can. This Town is of great Trade and resort , and for the diligent and industrious practice of making Cloth so excels the rest , that in regard thereof it carrieth a super-eminent name above them , and hath great vent and Traffique for her Woollen-cloaths through all the parts of England . It challengeth not much glory for Antiquity ; only that it accounteth it a great credit , that it hath dignified three Earls with the title thereof , as Iohn Duke of Bedford , whom Henry the Fifth ( being his brother ) advanced to that honour , Iohn Duke of Somerset , and Iohn de Foix , whom King Henry the Sixth preferred to that dignity for his honourable and trusty services done in the French Wars . It is a place of very civil and orderly government , the which is managed by an Alderman , chosen every year out of his twelve Brethren , who are all distinguished and notified from the rest by the wearing of purple Garments . The Alderman and his Senior Brother are always Iustices of Peace and Quorum . There are in it a Town Clerk , a Recorder , two Sergeants at Mace , and two Chamberlains . By Mathematical observation the site of this Town is in the degree of Longitude 17 , 30 scruples from the first West-point , and the Pole elevated in Latitude to the degree 55 , and 15 minutes . ( 8 ) Places of memorable note for Antiquity are Vertera , mentioned by Antonine the Emperour ; and Aballaba , which we contractly call Apelby . In the one , the Northern English conspired against William the Conquerour in the beginning of the Norman Government . In the other , the Aurelian Maures kept a Station in the time of the Romans , and their high-street is yet apparently to be seen by the ridges thereof , which lead by Apelby to a place called Brovonacum , mentioned in the Book of Provincial notices . The antique pieces of Roman Coin otherwhiles digged up hereabouts , and some Inscriptions not long ●ince found , shew of what continuance they have been : although Time , which devoureth all things , hath so fed upon their carkasses many Ages together , as it hath almost consumed both Houses and Inhabitants , for Apelby now is bare both of People and Building ; and were it not for the antiquity that makes it the more estimable , in whose Castle the Assises are commonly kept , it would be little better in account than a Village . Verterae is long since decayed , and the name of it changed into Burgh : for it is commonly named Burgh under Stanemore . In which , it is said , a Roman Captain made his abode with a Band of Directores , in the declining Age of the Roman Empire - These two places William of Newborough calleth Princely Holds , and writeth , that William King of Scots a little before he himself was taken Prisoner at Alnewicke , surprized them on a sudden , but King Iohn recovered them after , and liberally bestowed them upon Robert Vipont , for his many worth● services . ( 9 ) There is mention made but of one Religious House that hath been in all this Country , and that was a little Monastery seated near unto the River Loder , built by Thomas the son of Gospatricke , the Son of Orms : where there is a Fountain or Spring that Ebbs and Flows many times a day , and it is thought that some notable Act of Atchievement hath been performed there , for that there be huge Stones in form of Pyramides , some nine foot high , and fourteen foot thick , ranged for a mile in length directly in a row , and equally distant , which might seem to have been there purposely pitched in memory thereof : but what that Act was it is not now known , but quite worn out of remembrance by Times injury . ( 10 ) Other matters worthy of observation are only these : That at Ambogla●● , now called Amble-side , near the upper-corner of Winander-Mear , there appears at this day the ruins of an ancient City , which by the British-Bricks , by Roman-Money oftentimes found there , by High-waies paved leading unto it , and other likelihoods , seems to have beed a work of the Romans : The Fortress thereof so long fenced with a Ditch and Rampire , that it took up in length one hundred thirty two Ells , and in breadth eight . There are also near Kendale in the River Can , two Catadupae or Waterfalls , where the Waters descend with such a forcible downfal , that it compels a mighty noise to be heard , which the neighbour Inhabitants make such use of , as they stand them in as good stead as Prognostications : for when that which standeth North from them soundeth more clear , and with a louder eccho in their ears , they certainly look for fair weather to follow ▪ But when that on the South doth the like , they expect foggy mists and showers of rain . ( 11 ) This Province is traded with four Market-Towns , fortified with the strength of seven Castles , and hath 26 Parishes in it for the celebration of Divine Service . CUMBERLAND . CHAPTER XLI . CUMBERLAND , the furthest North-West Province in this Realm of England , confronteth upon the South of Scotland , and is divided from that Kingdom partly by the River Kirsop , then crossing Eske , by a tract thorow Solom●-Moss , until it come to the Solwaye-Frith , by Ptolomy called the Itune-Bay . The North-West part is neighboured by Northumberland , more East-ward with Westmerland , the South with Lancashire , and the West is wholly washed with the Irish-Seas . ( 2 ) The form whereof is long and narrow , pointing wedg-like into the South , which part is altogether pestred with copped hills , and therefore hath the name of Cop-land . The middle is more level , and better inhabited , yielding sufficient for the sustenance of man : but the North is wild and solitary , cumbred with Hills , as Copland is . ( 3 ) The Air is piercing , and of a sharp temperature , and would be more biting , were it not that those high Hills break off the Northern storms , and cold falling Snows . ( 4 ) Notwithstanding , rich is this Province , and with great varieties thereof is replenished : the Hills , though rough , yet smile upon their beholders , spread with Sheep and Cattel , the Vallies stored with Grass and Corn sufficient : the Sea affordeth great store of Fish , the Land overspread with variety of Fowls , and the Rivers feed a kind of Muskle that bringeth forth Pearl , where in the mouth of the Irt , as they lie gaping and sucking in Dew , the Country people gather , and sell to the Lapidaries to their own little , and the buyers great gain . But the Mines Royal of Copper , whereof this Country yieldeth much , is for use , the richest of all : the place is at Keswick and Newland , where likewise the Black-Lead is gotten , whose plenty maketh it of no great esteem ; otherwise a commodity that could hardly be missed . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants known to the Romans , were the Brigantes , whom Ptolomy disperseth into Westmorland , Richmond , Durham , York-shire , and Lancashire . But when the Saxons had overborn the Britains , and forced them out of the best , to seek their resting among the vast Mountains , these by them were entred into , where they held play with their enemies , maugre their force , and from them , as Marianus doth witness , the Land was called Cumber , of those Kumbri the Britains . But when the State of the Saxons was sore shaken by the Danes , this Cumberland was accounted a Kingdom of it self ; for so the Flower-gatherer of Westminster recordeth : King Edmund ( saith he ) with the help of Leoline Prince of South-Wales wasted all Cumberland , and having put out the eyes of the 〈◊〉 so●s of Dunmail King of that Province , granted that Kingdom unto Malcolm King of Scots , whereof their eldest sons became Prefects . This Province , King Stephen , to purch●se favour with the Scots , what time he stood in most need of aid , confirmed by gift under their Crown ; which Henry the Second notwithstanding made claim unto and got , as Nubrigensis writeth , and laid it again in the Marches of England : since when , many bickerings betwixt these Nations herein have hapned , but none so bitter against the Scottish-side , as was that at Salome Moss , where their Nobility disdaining their General Oliver Sinclere , gave over the Battel , and yielded themselves to the English : which dishonour pierced so deeply into to the heart of King Iames the fifth , that for grief thereof he shortly after died . ( 6 ) Many memorable Antiquities remain and have been found in this County : for it being the Confines of the Romans Possessions , was continually secured by their Garrisons , where remains at this day part of that admirable Wall built by Severus : also another Fortification from 〈◊〉 to El●●-Mo●th , upon the Sea-shore toward Ireland , by Stillic● raised , when under 〈◊〉 he suppressed the rage of the Picts and Irish , and freed the Seas of the Saxon Pirates . Upon Hard-knot hill , Moresby , Old-Carleil , Pap-Castle along the Wall , and in many other places , their ruines remain , with Altars , and I●scriptions of their Captains and Colonies , whereof many have been found , and more as yet lie hid . ( 7 ) The chiefest City in this Shire is Careile , pleasantly seated betwixt the Rivers Eden , Petterel● , and Caud , by the Romans called Luguvallum ; by Beda , Luell ; by Ptolomy , Leucopibia ; by Ninius , Caer-Lualid ; and by us Carlile . This City flourishing under the Romans , at their departure , by the furious outrages of the Scots and Picts was dejected , yet in the daies of Egfrid King of Northumberland , was walled about : but again defaced by the over-running Danes , lay buried in her own ashes the space of two hundred years : upon whose ruines at length Rufus set his compassionate eye , and built there the Castle , planting a Colony of Flemings to secure the Coasts from the Scots , but upon better advisement removed them into Wales . After him , Henry his Brother and Successor ordained this City for an Episcopal See ; whose site is placed in the degree of Longitude from the first West part 17 and 2 scruples , and the Pole thence elevated from the degree of Latitude 55 and 56 scruples . ( 8 ) West from hence , at Burgh upon the Sand , was the fatal end of our famous Monarch King Edward the First , who there leaving his Wars unfinished against Scotland , left his troubles , and soon missed life , to his untimely and soon lamented death . ( 9 ) And at Salkelds upon the River Eden , a Monument of seventy seven Stones , each of them ten foot high above ground , and one of them at the entrance fifteen , as a Trophy of Victory was erected . These are by the By-dwellers called Long-Meg and her Daughters . ( 10 ) This Country , as it stood in the Fronts of Assaults , so was it strengthened with twenty-five Castles , and preserved with the Prayers ( as then was thought ) of the V●taries in the Houses erected at Carlil● , L●ncroft , Wether all , Holme , Daker , and Saint Bees . These with others were dissolved by King Henry the Eight , and their revenues shadowed under his Crown : but the Province being freed from the charge of Subsidie , is not therefore divided into Hundreds in the Parliament Roles , whence we have taken the divisions of the rest : only this is observed , that therein are seated nine Market-Towns , fifty eight Parish-Churches , besides many other Chappels of Ease . NORTHUMBERLAND map of Northumberland NORTHUMBERLAND . CHAPTER XLII . THE County of Northumberla●d , hath on the South the Bishoprick of Durham , being shut in with the River Derwent , and with Tyne ; the North is confined upon Scotland , the West upon part of Scotland and part of Cumberland ; the East-side lyeth altogether upon the Sea , called Mare Germanicum : ( 2 ) The form thereof is Triangular , and differs not much in the sidings ; for from her South-East unto the South-West point are near unto 40 miles ; from thence to her North-point are sixty miles , and her base along the Sea-shore 45 miles : The whole in circumference is about one hundred forty five miles . ( 3 ) The Air must needs be subtile and piercing , for that the Northernly parts are most exposed to extremity of weathers , as great winds , hard fro●ts , and long lying of snows , &c. Yet would it be far more sharp than it is , were not the German-S●as a ready means to further the dissolution of her Ice and Snow , and the plenty of Coals there gotten , a great help to comfort the Body with marmth , and defend it from the bitter coldness . ( 4 ) The soil cannot be rich , having neither fertility of ground for Corn or Cattel , the most part of it being rough , and in every place hard to be man●red , save only towards the Sea and the River Tyne , where , by the great diligence and industrious pains of good husbandry , that part is become very fruitful . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Country , mentioned by Ptolomy , were called OTTALINI , OTTADENI , and OTTADINI , which by an ea●ie alteration ( as M. C●mbden saith , if it had been called OTTATINI , signifying , about the River Tyne , or on the further side of Ty●e , ( for so this People were planted ) there would have been much consonance both with the name of the Inhabitants , and the Position and Site of the Province . ( 6 ) The chiefest commodity that enricheth this County , are those Stones Linthancrates , which we call Sea-coals , whereof there is such plenty and abundance digged up , as they do not only return a great gain to the Inhabitants , but procure also much pleasure and profit to others . ( 7 ) No place of ●his Province vents forth so many of these Sea-coals into other Regions , as New-Castle doth , being the very Eye of all the Towns in this County : for it doth not only minister relief ( by such provision ) to all other parts of England , but doth also furnish the wants of forrain Countries with her plenty . By means of this and the intercouse of Traffique which it hath , the place is grown exceeding rich and populous . Before the Conquest it was called Monk-chester : having been ( as it seemed ) in the possession of ●onks : and Chester being added , which signifies a Bulwark or place of defence , and shews that in ancient time it had been a place of Fortification . ( 8 ) After the Conquest it got the name of Newcastle , by the New Castle which Robert the Son of William the Conquerour built there , out of the ground . What it was called in old time is not known , yet some are of opinion , that it may be thought to have been Gatrosentum , for that Gates●ead , the suburb ( as it were ) of the same , expresseth in their own proper signification that British name , Gatrosentum . It is now most ennobled both by the Haven ( which Tyne maketh ) of that not able depth , that it beareth very tall Ships , and is able to defend them against Storms and Tempests . As also by many favours and honours wherewith it hath been dignified by Princes : for Richard the Second granted that a Sword should be carried before the Mayor , and Henry the Sixt made it a County consisting of a Corporation within it self . It is adorned with four Churches , and fortified with strong Walls that have eight gates . It is distant from the first West line 21 degrees and 30 minutes and from the Equinoctial-line towards the North-Pole thirty four degrees and fif●y-seven minutes . ( 9 ) The utmost Town in England , and the strongest Hold in all Britain , is Barwick . From whence it had the name is not certainly made known . Some fetch it from Berengarius , a Duke ( never read of : ) Howsoever , this is better to be said than trusted : and whencesoever it hath the name , it is seated between two mighty Kingdoms , shooting far into the Sea , with the which and the River Tweed , it is almost encompassed : and whensoever any discord fell between the two Nations , this place was the first thing they took care of . It hath endured the brunts of divers inroads and incursions , and been oftentimes possessed and repossessed of the S●ots and English : But since it was reduced under the command of Edward the Fourth , our Kings have from time to time so strengthned it with new Works and Fortifications , as they cut off all hopes of winning it . The Governour of this Town is also Warden of the East-Marches against Scotland . The Longitude of it according to Mathematical observation , is 21 degrees and 43 minutes : the Latitude 55 degrees and 48 minutes . ( 10 ) The Inhabitants of this Country are a warlike People , and excellent Horsemen , and ar● made fierce and hard by the several encounters of the Scots , and not much unlike them in neither , betwixt whom in this County , many Battels have been fought , and the successes oftentimes waved through very doubtfully , the Victory sometimes falling to the Scots , sometimes to the English. At Otterburne was one , in which three or four times it stood doubtfully indifferent , till in the end the Scots got the upperhand of the English : Howbeit , their glory was not made so illustrious by this Conquest , but that it was as much darkned by the foil they received at Anwicke , where William . King of Scots was taken and presented Prisoner to Henry the Second . As also by that Battel at Brumridge , Where King Athelstan fought a pitcht field against Anlafe the Dan● , Constantine King of 〈◊〉 , and E●genius King of Cumberland , and that with such fortuna●e success , as it hath left matter sufficient to fill the pens of Historians . Flodden-Field also , memorable in the death of Iames the fourth , King of Scots , who was there slain , and his Army overthrown in a sharp Fight , as he displayed his Banner ( in great hope ) against England , when King Henry the Eight lay at the siege of Turnay in France . ( 11 ) Other Battels in this County have been , as that at Hexam ( called by Beda , Hangust●ld ) wherein Iohn Nevil , Marquess M●ntacute , encountred the Leaders of the Lancastrian Faction with much courage , and with greater success , put them to flight , for which he was made Earl of Northumberland by Edward the Fourth . As also that of Dilston , ( by Beda called Devilshurne ) where Oswald having the Faith of Christ for his Defence and Armour , slew Cedwall the Britain in a set Battel himself straightwaies becoming a professed Christian , and causing his people to be instructed in Christain Religion . ( 12 ) Many memorable Antiquities are found in this Country along the Wall , and in other places : As pieces of Coin , Inscriptions , broken and unperfect Altars , &c. the ruines of the Wall yet to be seen : but none that deserves more to be remembred than Wall-Town ( by Beda called Ad Murum ) for that Segebert King of the East-Saxons was in it baptized in the Christian Faith by the hands of Paulinus : and Halyston , where the said Paulinus is said to have baptized many thousands into the Faith of Christ in the Primitive Church of the English Nation . ( 13 ) Busy-gap is a place infamous for robbing and thieving , and is therefore rather remembred as a cautionary note for such as have cause to travel that way , than for any proper matter of worth it hath , that merits place with other parts of this Province . Other matters of observation are only these , that North-Tyne ( running thorow the Wall ) waters two Dales , which breed notable light-horse-men , and both of them have their hills● ( hard by ) ●o boggy , and standing with water on the top , that no horse-men are able to ride through them , and yet ( which is wonderful ) there be many great heaps of Stones ( called Laws ) which the neighbouring people are verily perswaded were cast up and laid together in old time , in remembrance of some that were slain there . There is also a martial kind of Men which lie out , up and down in little Cottages ( called by them Sheals and Shealings ) from April to August , in scattering fashion , summering ( as they term it ) their Cattel , and these are such a sort of people as were the ancient Nom●d●s● The last , not least , matter of note is this , that the Inhabitants of Morpeth set their own Town on fire in the year of Christ 1215 , in the spight they bare to King Iohn , for that he and his Rutars over-ran these Countries . This County hath five Market-Towns in it for her Trade of Buying and Selling , 26 Castles for her strength and fortification , and 460 Parish-Churches for Divine Service . THE ISLE OF MAN map of the Isle of Man MAN-ISLAND . CHAPTER XLIII . THe Isle of Man is termed by Ptolomy , Moneda ; by Pliny , Menabia ; by Or●sius , M●navia : by Beda , Menavia secunda , and by Gildas ; Eubonia , and Menaw . The Britains name it Menow ; the Inhabitants Maninge ; and we Englishmen ; The Isle of Man. It boundeth Northward upon Scotland , Southward upon the Isle of Auglesey , Eastward upon part of Lanca-shire , and Westward upon the Coast of Ireland . ( 2 ) The form is long and narrow , for from Cranston to the Mull-hills , where it is longest , it only stretcheth it self to twenty nine miles ; but from the widest part , which is from Peele-Castle to Douglas-point , are scarce nine ; the whole compass about , is fourscore and two miles ▪ ( 3 ) The Air is cold and sharp , being bordering upon the Septentrion●l parts , and for her shelter having but a wall of water . They have few Woods , only they light sometimes upon subterranean trees buried under the ground , by digging up the earth for a clammy kind of Turff , which they use for fuell . ( 4 ) The Soil is reasonable fruitful both for Cattel , Fish , and Corn ; yet it rather commendeth the pains of the People than the goodness of the ground ; for by the Industry of the Inhabitants it yieldeth ●uffciently of every thing for it self , and sendeth good store into other Countries . It hath Fields ( by good manuring ) plenteous of Barley and Wheat , but especially of Oats ; and from hence it comes that the People eat most of all Oaten-bread . It bears abundance of Hemp and Flax , and is full of mighty Flocks of Sheep and other Cattel : yet are they smaller in body than those we have in England , and are much like to the Cattel in Ireland that are neighbouring upon it . ( 5 ) This Commodity makes this I●land more happy than we are here : for the People are there free from unnecessary commencements of Suits , from long and dilatory Pleas , and from frivolous feeing of Lawyers . No Iudg or Clerks of the Cou●t take there any penny for drawing Instruments , or mak●ng of Processes . All Controversies are there determined by certain Iudges , without writings or other charges , and them they all Deemsters , and chuse forth among themselves . If any complaint be made to the Magistrate for wrong , either done or suffered , he presently taketh up a Stone , and fixeth his mark upon it , and so delivereth it unto the Party Plaintiff , by vertue of which he both calls his Adversary to appearance , and to produce his Witnesses . If the Case fall out to be more litigious , and of greater consequence than can easily be ended , it is then referred to twelve Men , whom they term , The Keys of the Island . Another happiness enricheth this Island , namely , the Security and Government thereof , as being defended from neighbour Enemies by Souldiers that are p●est and ready ; for on the South side-of the Isle stands Bala-Curi ( the Bishops chief place of residence ) and the Pyl● , and a Block-house sta●ding in a little Island , where there is a continual Garrison of Souldiers . And it is so well managed for matter of rule and civil Discipline , that every man there possesseth his own in peace and safety . No man lives in dread or danger of what he hath . Men are not there inclined to Robbing or Thieving , or Licentious living . ( 6 ) The Inhabitants of this Island are for the most part religious , and loving to their Pastors , to whom they do much reverence and respect , frequenting daily to Divine Service , without division in the Church , or innovation in the Commonwealth . The wealthier sort , and such as hold the fairest possessions , do imitate the people of Laca-shire , both in their honest carriage and good house-keeping . Howbeit , the common sort of People both in their language and manners , come nighest unto the Irish , although they somewhat relish and favour of the qualities of the Norw●gians . ( 7 ) Things not worthy to be buried in the grave of oblivion are , that this Island in the midst thereof riseth up with hills , standing very thick ; amongst which the highest is called Sceafull , from whence upon a clear and fair day , a man may easily see three Kingdoms at once ; that is , Scotland , and Ireland . This Isle prohibits the customary manner of begging from dore to dore , detesting the disorders , as well Civil as Ecclesiastical of Neighbour Nations . And the last , not least , that deserves to be committed to memory , is , that the women of this Country , wheresoever they go out of their dores , gird themselves about with the Winding-sheet that they purpose to be buried in , to shew themselves mindful of their mortality : and such of them as are at any time condemned to die , are sowed within a Sack , and flung from a Rock into the Sea. ( 8 ) The whole Isle is divided into two parts , South and North , whereof the one resembleth the Scottish in Speech , the other the Irish. It is defended by two Castles , and hath seventeen Parishes , five Market-Towns , and many Villages . A Chronicle of the Kings of MAN. CHAPTER XLIV . IT is here very pertinent to the purpose , to insert a small History of this Island , that the atchievements heretofore had , may not be utterly buried , although they are waxen very old , and almost torn from remembrance by the teeth of ●ime . I is confessed by all , that the Britains held this Island , as they did all Britain . But when the Nations from the North overflowed these South parts , like violent tempests . it became subject to the the Scots . Afterwards , the Norwegians who did most hurt from the Northern Sea by their manifold robberies , made this Island and the Hebrides to be their haunt , and erected Lords and pe●●y Kings in the same , as is expressed in this Chronicle , written ( as is reported ) by the Monks of the Abbey of Russin . A Chronicle of the Kings of MAN. ANno Dom. 1065 Edward , of blessed memory , King of England , departed this life , and Harald the Son of Godwin succeeded him in the Kingdom : against whom Harold Harfager ( King of Norway ) came into the Field , and fought a Battel at Stainford-bridge : but the English obtaining the Victory put them all to flight . Out of which chase Godred , sirnamed Crovan , the Son of Harald the black of Iseland , came unto Godred the Son of Syrric , who raigned then in Man , and honourably received him . ( 2 ) The same year William the Bastard conquered England , and Godred the Son of Syrric died , his Son Fingal succeeding him . ( 3 ) An. 1066. Godred Crovan assembled a great Fleet , and came to Ma● , and fought with the people of the Land , but received the worst , and was overcome . The second time renewing his Forces and his Fleet , he sailed into Man , and joyned Battel with the Manksmen but was vanquished as before , and driven out of the Field . Howbeit , what he could not at first bring to pass with power in those two several onsets , he afterward effected by policy . For the third time gathering a great multitude together , he arrived by night in the haven called Ramsey , and hid three hundred men in a Wood , which stood upon the hanging hollow brow of an Hill called Sceafull . The Sun being risen , the Manksmen put their People in order of Battel , and with a violent charge encountred with Godred . The fight was hot for a time , and stood in a doubtful suspence till those three hundred Men starting out of the Ambush behind their backs , began to foil the Manksmen , put them to the worst , and forced them to flie . Who seeing themselves thus discomfited , and finding no place of refuge le●t them to escape , with pitiful lamentation submitted themselves unto Godred , and besought him not to put the Sword such poor remainder of them as was left alive . Godred having compassion on their calamities , ( for he had been pursed for a time and brought up among them ) sounded a Retreat , and prohibited his Host any longer pursuit . He being thus possessed of the Isle of Man , died in the Island that is called Isle , when he had raigned sixteen years . he left behind him three sons Lagman , Harald , and Olave . ( 4 ) Lagman the eldest , taking upon him the Kingdom , raigned seven year . His brother Harald rebelled against him a great while ; but at length was taken Prisoner by Lagman , who caused his members of generation to be cut off , and his eyes to be put out of his head : which curelty this Lagman afterwards repenting , gave over the Kingdom of his own accord , and wearing the Badge of the Lords Cross , took a journey to Ierusalem , in which he died . ( 5 ) An. 1075. All the Lords and Nobles of the Islands hearing of the death of Lagman , dispatched Ambassadors to Murccard O●brien , King of Irela●d , and requested that he would send some worthy and industrious man of the Blood-Royal to be their King , till Olave , the son of Godred came to full age . The King yielding to their request , sent one Dopnald the son of Tade , and charged him to govern the Kingdom ( which by right belonged to another ) with lenity and gentleness . But after he was come to the Crown , forgetting or not weighing the charge that his Lord and Master had given him , swayed his place with great Tyranny , committing many outrages and cruelties , and so raigned three years : till all the Princes of the Islands agreeing together , rose up against him , and made him flie into Ireland . ( 6 ) An. Dom. 1111. Olave the son of Godred Craven aforesaid , began his Raign , and raigned forty years a peaceable Prince . He took to wife Affrica , the daughter of Fergus of Galway , of whom he begat Godred . By his Concubines he had Raignald , Lagman , and Harald , besides many daughters , whereof one was married to Summerled , Prince of Herergaidel , who caused the ruine of the Kings of the Islands . On her he begat four sons , Dulgal , Raignald , Engus and Olave . ( 7 ) An. Dom. 1144. Godred the son of Olave , was created King of Man , and raigned thirty years . In the third year of his Raign the People of Dublin sent for him , and made him their King. Which Murecard King of Ireland maligning , raised War , and sent Osibeley his half brother by the Mothers side with 3000 Men at Arms to Dublin , who by Godred and the Dublinians was slain , and the rest all put to flight , These Atchievements made , Godred returned to Man , and began to use Tyranny , turning the Noblemen out of their Inheritances . Whereupon one called Th●rsin ( Otters son ) being mightier than the rest , came to Summerled , and made Dulgal ( Summerleds son ) King of the Islands : whereof Godred having intelligence , prepared a Navy of 80 Ships to meet Summerled . And in the year 1156 there was a Battle fought at Sea on Twelfth day at night , and many slain on both sides . But the next day they grew to a pacification , and divided the Kingdom of the Islands among themselves . This was the cause of the overthrow of the Kingdom of the Isles . ( 8 ) An. 1158. Summerled came to Man , with a Fleet of fifty three Sail , put Godred to flight , and wasted the Island . Godred upon this crossed over to Norway for aid against Summerled . But Summerled in the mean time arriving at Rhinfrin , and having gathered together a Fleet of 160 Ships , coveting to subdue all Scotland , by the just Iudgment of God , was vanquished by a few , and both himself and his son slain , with an infinite number of people . ( 9 ) The fourth day after , Raignald began to raign , but Godred coming upon him out of Norway with a great number of Armed Men , took his Brother Raignald , and bereft him both of his Eyes and Genital Members . On the fourth Ides of November , An. Dom. 1187. Godred King of the Islands died , and his body was translated to the Isle of Ely. He left behind him three sons , Raignald , Olave , and Tvar . He ordained in his life time that Olave should succeed him , because he only was born legitimate . But the people of Man seeing him to be scarce ten years old , sent for Raignald , and made him their King. This caused great division , and many turbulent attempts between the two Brethren for the space of thirty eight years ; which had no end , till at a place called Tingualla there was a Battel struck between them , wherein Olave had the Victory , and Raignald was slain . The Monks of Russin translated his Body unto the Abbey of S. Mary de Fournes , and there interred it in a place which himself had chosen for that purpose . ( 10 ) An. 1230. Olave and Godred Don ( who was Raignalds son ) with the Norwegiaus came to Man , and divided the Kingdom among themselves . Olave held Man , and Godred being gone unto the Islands , was slain in the Isle Lodaus . So Olave obtained the Kingdom of the Isles . He died the twelfth Calends of Iune , Anno 1237. in Saint Patricks-Islands , and was buried in the Abbey of Russin . ( 11 ) Harold his Son succeeded him , being fourteen years of Age , and raigned 12 years . In the year 1239 he went unto the King of Norway , who after two years confirmed unto him , his Heirs and Successors , under his Seal , all the Islands which his Predecessors had possessed . ( 12 ) An. 1242. Harald returned out of Norway , and being by the Inhabitants honourably received , had peace with the Kings of England and of Scotland . The same year he was sent for by the King of Norway , and married his Daughter . In the year 1249 as he returned homeward with his Wife , he was drowned in a Tempest neer unto the Coasts of Radland . ( 13 ) An. Dom. 1249. Raignald the Son of Olave , and brother to Harold , began his raign and on the thirtieth day thereof was slain by one Tvar a Knight , in a Meadow neer unto the holy Trinity-Church , and lieth buried in the Church of S. Mary of Russin . ( 14 ) In the year 1252. Magnus the son of Olave , came to Man , and was made King. The next year following he went to the King of Norway , and stayed there a year . ( 15 ) In the year 1265. Magnus ( Olaves son ) King of Man , and of the Islands , departed this life , at the Castle of Russin , and was buried in the Church of S. Mary of Russin . ( 16 ) In the year 1266 the Kingdom of the Islands was translated , by reason of Alexander King of Scots , who had gotten into his hands the Western Islands , and brought the Isle of Man under his dominion , as one of that number . ( 17 ) An. 1340. William Montacute Earl of Salisbury wrested it from the Scottish by strong hand and force of Arms : and in year the 1393 ( as Thomas Walsingham saith ) he sold Man and the Crown thereof unto William Scroope for a great summe of money . But he being beheaded for high Treason , and his Goods confiscate ; it came into the hands of Henry the Fourth King of England , who granted this Island unto Henry Piercy Earl of Northumberland . But Henry Piercy entring into open Rebellion the fifth year following , the King sent Sir Iohn Stanley and William Stanley to seize the Isle and Castle of Man , the inheritance whereof he granted afterwards to Sir Iohn Stanley and his Heirs by Letters Patents , ●with the Patronage of the Bishoprick , &c. So that his Heirs and Successors , who were honoured with the Title of Earls of Darby , were commonly called Kings of Man. HOLY ISLAND map of Lindisfarne GARNSEY map of Guernsey FARNE map of the Farne Islands IARSEY map of Jersey HOLY-ISLAND . CHAPTER XLV . THis Island is called Lindisfarne , by the River Lied that is opposite unto it on the Coast of Northumberland . Beda termed it a Dem●-Island . The Britains name it Iuis Medicante , for that it twice every day suffereth an exordinary inundation and over-flowing of the Ocean in manner of an Island , which twice likewise makes it continent to the Land , and returning unto her watry habitation , lays the Shore bare again , as before . It is called in English , Holy-Island , for that in ancient times many Monks have been accustomed to retired themselves thither , and to make it their receptacle for solitude : having on the West and South , Northumberland , and more South Eastward the Island Farne . ( 2 ) The form of it is long and narrow , the West-side narrower than the East , and are both conjoyned by a very small spang of Land that is left unto Conies . The South is much broader than the rest . It is from East to West , about two thousand two hundred and fifty paces : and from North to South , twelve hundred and fifty paces ; so that the circumference cannot be great . ( 3 ) The Air is not very good either for health or delight , as being seated on those parts that are subject to extremity of cold , and greatly troubled with vapou●s and foggy mists that arise from the Seas . ( 4 ) The Soil cannot be rich , being rocky and full of Stones , and unfit for Corn and Tillage . It is neither commended for Hills to feed Sheep , nor Pastures to fat Cattel ; neither hath it Vallies replenished with sweet Springs , or running Rivolets , only one excepted , descending from a standing Pond . The only thing this Island yieldeth , is a fit and accommodate aptitude for Fishing and Fowling . ( 5 ) Notwithstanding , this is very worthy of note concerning the same , which Alcun wrote in an Epistle to Egelred King of Northumberland , namely , that it was a place more venerable than all the places of Britain , and that after the departure of S. Paulinus from York , there Christian Religion began in their Nation , though afterwards it there felt the first beginning of misery and calamity , being left to the spoil of Pagans and Miscreants . ( 6 ) It is also remembred of this Island , that sometime there hath been in it an Episcopal See , which Aidan the Scot instituted ( being called thither to Preach the Christian Faith to the People of Northumberland ) being thus delighted with the solitary situation thereof , as a most fit place for retirement . But afterwards when the Danes rifled all the Sea-Coasts , the Episcopal See was translated to Durham . ( 7 ) This Island so small in account either for compass or commodity , and so unpeopled and unprofitable , cannot be numerous in Towns and Villages . It hath in it only one Town , with a Church and a Castle , under which there is a commodious Haven , defended with a Block-house , situate upon an Hill towards the South-East . FARNE-ISLE . THis Isle South-Eastward seven miles from Holy-Island , sheweth it self distant almost two miles from Brambrough Castle . On the West and South it beareth upon Northumberland , and on the North-east-side it hath other smaller Islands adjoyning to it , as Widopons and Staple-Island , which lie two miles off Bronsinan , and two lesser than these , which are called the Wambes . ( 2 ) The Form of this I●le is round , and no longer in compass than may easily be ridden in one half of a day . The breadth of it is but five miles ▪ and the length no more . The whole circumference extends it self no further than to fifteen miles . ( 3 ) The Air is very unwholsom , and subject both to many Dysenteries and other Diseases , by reason of the mi●ty Fogs and Exhalations that are thereunto drawn up from the Ocean . It is many times troubled with unusual Tempests of Winds , with boisterous ●ury of stormy Rains , and with several and uncouth rages of the Sea. ( 4 ) The Soil cannot be fertile , being incircled about with craggy Clifts ; ●either hath it in it much matter either of pleasure or profit . It can neither defend it self from Cold , lacking Fuel , as Wood , Coal , Turffs , &c. Nor from Famine , wanting Food , as Corn , Pastures , Cattel , &c. The best Commodity it yields , is Fish and Fowl. ( 5 ) This thing nevertheless is worthy to be remembred of it , which Beda ( writing of the Life of Cuthbert Bishop of Lindisfarne , that Tutelar Patron of the Northern E●glishmen ) reporteth , namely , that in this Isle he built a City fitting his Government , and erected certain Houses in the same ; the whole building standing almost round in compass , and reaching the space of four or five Pearches . The Wall about it , he made higher than a Mans height , to with-hold and keep in the wanton lasciviousness both of his thoughts and eyes , and to elevate the whole intention of his mind up to heavenly desires , that he might wholly give himself to the service of God. But these are all made the ruins of time , as sithence many other Monuments have been of worthy Antiquity . ( 6 ) I cannot report that there are now many Houses standing in it , much less Towns or Villages : Only this , that it hath a Tower or Place of Fortification belonging unto it , placed well-neer in the middle part of the Isle . GARNSEY . THis Island lieth about five leagues North-West from Iersey , and is compa●●ed ( like to her neighbour ) with the British Sea. It lieth in length from Plymouth-Bay South-West , to Lancro●se de Anckers North-East , thirteen miles : in breadth from S. Martins-point South-East , to the Howe North-West nine miles : and is in circuit thirty six miles . The Emperour Antonine having the rule and dominion of France ( at that time called Gaul , from whence the word Gallia is derived ) did name this Island Sarnia , which afterwards by the change of Times and corruption of Languages , was long since ( and is at this day ) called Garnsey . ( 2 ) This Isle in form and fashion standeth in the Sea , much like to a Park that is encompassed ●ound about with a Pale of Rocks , being very defensible unto the Island from the attempting invasion of Enemies . ( 3 ) The Air and Climate of this Isle hath little or no difference in temper or quality from that of Iersey . And this deserves to be remembred of it ; that in this Isle is neither Toad , Snake , Adder , or any other venemous creature , and the other hath great plenty . ( 4 ) It standeth for the most part upon a Rock , very high in many places from the Sea. Nevertheless the Soil is very fruitful , yielding forth great plenty of Grass for their Sheep and other Cattel , which they have to serve all uses . Their Fields in the Summer time are so naturally ga●nished with Flowers of all sorts , that a man ( being there ) might conceit himself to be in a pleasant artificial Garden . ( 5 ) The Inhabitants are not so much given to Tillage as they of Iersey , though the Soil be as fruitful . They have of late take● great delight in Planting and Setting of Trees of all sorts , and especially of Apples , by reason whereof they make much Sider . Their Commodities are alike , and their helps from the Sea no less , or rather more . ( 6 ) In this Isle are many great ●teep Rocks , among which is found a hard stone called by the ●re●ch-Men , Smyris , which we term Emerill . The Stone is serviceable for many purposes , and many Trades , as Glasiers , &c. but especially for the Goldsmiths and Lapidaries , to cut their precious Stones . ( 7 ) It hath a head of Land upon the North part thereof , the passage into which is so narrow , that a man would think that at every Tyde ( the Sea beating strongly on both sides ) it were in a continual danger to be fundred from the other part of the Isle . This place is called S. Mic●●●l in the Vale , where ( in former times ) stood a Priory , or a Covent of Religious Persons , the ruines whereof are at this day to be seen . ( 8 ) The government of this Isle , in nature and for● rese●bles the other of I●rs●y , of whom shall be said . The People in their Original and Language alike also , but in their Customs nnd Conditions they come neerer the civil fashions of the English , Other matters of mo●ent I find not worthy to be recorded . It hath ten Parishes , and one Market-Town , being also a Haven , a●d is called S. 〈…〉 ●lose by the Peer , , and Cast●-Corn●t . IERSEY . THe two Islands Iersey and Garnsey , being the only remains of the Dukedom of Normandy ; that in former times many years together was in the possession , and under the command of the Kings of England , annexing thereunto a large Territory and glorious Title to the Crown , are both seated in the Sea called Mare Britannicum , the Ocean parting them a good distance asunder , and are now both adjuncts , and within the circuit of Hampshire . For the first ( being the Isle of Iersey ) it lieth upon the British-Sea , having on the North parts the Coasts of Hampshire , and on the South the Country of Normandy . ( 2 ) This Island is long , not much unlike the fashion of an Egg. It contains in length from Sentw●n-Poole upon the West , to Mount-Orguil Castle on the East , ten miles , and in breadth from Dubon-point to Plymoun●-bay , six miles : the whole circuit of the Island being thirty eight miles . It is distant from a little Island ca●●ed Alderney , about four leagues . It was in old time called Caesaria ; whether from Iulius Octavius , or any the other Caesars that followed , is unknown . But the Fre●chmen have by corruption of speech long time called it Iersey . ( 3 ) It is a very pleasant and delightful Island , and giveth a pleasant aspect unto the Seas . It lyeth Southward not far from a craggy ridge of Rocks , which is much feared of the Mariners , and makes the passage that way very dangerous , howbeit it serves for a forcible defence against Pirats , or any stranger that attempts invasion , and they are termed Casquets . ( 4 ) The Soil is very fertile , bringing forth store of Corn and Cattel , but especially of Sheep , that are of reasonable bigness , the most of them bearing four horns apiece : Their Wooll very fine and white , of which the Inhabitants make their Iersey Stockings , which are ordinarily to be had in most parts of England , and yield a great commodity unto the Island . ( 5 ) The first original of the Inhabitants sprung either from the Normans or Britains , or both . They speak French , though after a corrupt manner , and have continued their Names , Language , Customs , and Country , without any , or little intermix●ure , these many hundred years , having been under the jurisdiction of the English ever since the untimely and unnatural death of Robert Duke of Normandy , eldest son to William the Conquerour . ( 6 ) The People of this Country live very pleasantly , as well by the profits of the Land , as the helps and furtherances of the Sea , that yields unto them ( and especially in Summer season ) great store of Fish but principally for Conger and Lobsters , the greatest and fat●est upon the Coa●t of England . Wood is very scant , for their best Fuel is Turff , some Coal they have brought unto them , but it is very dear ; Straw , Furrs's , and Fern serving their ordinary uses . The middle part of the Island hath many pretty Hills rising in it , yielding a delightful object unto the Vallies , that receive from one another a mutual pleasure . ( 7 ) The Governour of this I●le is the Captain thereof , who appointeth certain Officers under him : the principal of whom , carrieth the name and title of a Bailif , that in civil causes hath the assistance of twelve Iurats to determine of differences , and minister Iustice : in criminal matters seve● : in matters of reason and conscience , five . Their Twelve are chosen out of the twelve Parishes ; so that no man goeth further to complain , than to his own Iurate in ordinary Controversies : but matters of moment and difficulty are determined before the Baili●● in a General Meeting . ( 8 ) This Isle hath two little Islands adjacent ; the one S. Albous , the other Hillary Island . It hath twelve Parishes , and four Castles . No other Monuments of Name or Note . WALES map of Wales The Description of WALES . CHAPTER I. ANtiquity hath avouched , that the whole Isle of Britain was divided into three Parts . The first and fairest lay contained within the French-Seas , the Rivers of Sev●rn● , D●● , and Humber , called then L●oyger , which name it yet retaineth in Welsh ; in English called England . The second part occupied all the Land Northward from Humber , to the Orkney-Sea , called by the Latines , Mar● Caledonium , or D●uc●l●●o●ium , now famously known by the name of Scotland . The third part was this , lying betwixt the Irish-Seas , the Rivers S●verne and Dee , and was called C●mbria , which name doth yet continue with them , though we , the E●glish , call it Wales , as the People Welshmen , which is , strange and strangers ; for so at this day the dwellers of Tyroll in the higher Germany , whence our Saxons are said to have come , do name the Italian their next neighbour ) a Welshman , and his language Welsh . ( 2 ) This opinion Versteg●n doth altogether contradict , rather judging by the ancient T●ut●●ick tongue , which the Germans spake , and wherein the G is pronounced for W that these S●xo●s called them Gallish from the Gaules , whence their original proceeded , rather than Wallish from strangers : which he thinketh could not be , considering their habitations so neer unto them ; and that the like was in use , he proveth by the words of Erench Gardian for Wardian , Cornugalles for C●rw●lles , yea and Galles for Walles , calling our most famous Edward Prince of Galles not Prince of W●lles : insomuch that the County of Lombardy , bordering along upon the Germans , was of them called G●lli●ci● cis-alphina , and at this day Welsh-land . So likewise do the Netherlands call the Inhabitants of Henalt and Artois , Wallen or Wallo●s , and some part of Brabant and Flanders , Welsh-Brabant , and Welsh-Fla●ders , and all because of the Language and Lineage of the Gauls . Neither do the meer Natives of Wales know any other name of their Country than Cambria , of themselves than Cambri or Cumri , or of their Language than Cambraoc . But leaving this opinion free to his affection , we will proceed . ( 3 ) Wales therefore being anciently bounded as before , the Saxons did afterwards win by force from the Britains , all the plain and Champion Country over the River Dee ; and especially Offa King of Mercia , made their limits straighter , by making a Ditch of great breadth and depth , to be a Mear betwixt this Kingdom and Wales . This Ditch is in many places to be seen at this day , and bears the name of Clawh Offa , that is , Offaes Ditch . The Country between it and England is commonly called the Marches , and is for the most part inhabited by Welshmen , especially in North-Wales , even to the River Dee . This admirable Trench began at Bassi●gwerke in Elintshire , between Chester and Ruthland , and ran along the Hills to the South-Sea , a little from Bristow , reaching above an hundred miles in length . ( 4 ) Silvester Giraldus makes the River Wye to be the Mear between England and Wales , on the South part , called South-Wales : whence he ascribeth the breadth of Wales unto Saint Davids in Men●vi● , to be an hundred miles ; and the length from Caerleon upon Vske in Gwentland , to Holly-head in Angles●y , an hundred miles , he might have said thirty more . ( 5 ) About the year of Christ 870 , our Alfred reigning in England , Rodericus Magnus King of VVales did divide it into three Talaiths , Regions , or Territories , which were called Kingdoms . This Rodericus Magnus gave Ven●d●tia , Gwyneth or North-Wales , to Anarawd his eldest son ; to Cadeth his second son Deme●ia , Debeu●arth or South-VValls ; and to Mervin his third son , Powys . ( 6 ) North-VVales had upon the North-side the Irish-Sea , from the River Dee to Bassingwerke to Aberdyvi : upon the West and South-West ▪ the River Dyvi , which divideth it from South-VVales , and in some places from Powysland . And on the South and East , it is divided from Powys , sometimes with high Hills , and sometimes with Rivers , till it come again to the River Dee . It is generally full of high Mountains , craggy Rocks , great Woods , and deep Vallies , many strait dangerous places , deep and swift Rivers . ( 7 ) This Land was of old time divided into four parts , Mon , Arvon , Meryonith ▪ and y Bervedhwlan , or the middle Country , and each of these were again divided into several Countries , and they subdivided into their Cymeden or Commots , wherein we follow that division which was in the time of Llewylyn ap Ruffin , last Prince of VVales , according to a Copy imparted to me by a worshipful Friend and learned Antiquary , as seeming far more exact than that of Doctor Powels . ( 8 ) A●gl●sey the chiefest , is separated from the main Land with the River Moenai , wherein at Aberfraw was the Princes Court , now a mean Village . In this Island is a fair Town called Beaumarish , And common passage to Ireland at Caergybi , in English , Holly-head . ( 9 ) Arv●n , the second part of North-VVales , is now called Carnarvanshire , the strongest Country within that Principality , giving place to none for fertility of the ground , or for plenty of Wood , Cattel , Fish , and Fowl , &c. Here are the Towns of Caernarvan , in old time called Caer-Sego●t , and Bangor the Bishops See , with divers other ancient Castles , and places of memory . This portion hath on the North , the Sea and Moe●ai ; upon the East and South-East , the River Conwey , which divideth it from Den●igh-shire : and on the South-West is separated from Merionyth , by Rivers , Mountains , and Mears . ( 10 ) Merionyth was the third part of Gwyneth , and keepeth the name till this day ; it is full of Hills , and much noted for the resort of People that repair thither to take Herr●ngs . Upon the North it hath Arvon and Denbigh land ; upon the South , Caerdigan-Shire ; and upon the East , Montg●m●ry-shire , heretofore part of Powis . In this County standeth the Town of Harlech , and a great Lake called Llyn-Tegyd , This Country is likewise full of Cattel , Fowl , and Fish , and hath in it great store of red Deer and Roes , but there is much scarcity of Corn. ( 11 ) Y Bervedhwland was the fourth part of Gwyneth , and may be called in English , The middle Country : is inclosed with Hills , on the East , West , and South-parts , and with the Sea Northward . It is plentiful of Cattel , Fish , and Fowl , as also of Corn : and is divided in the midst with the River Clwyd , to which run a number of other Rivers from the Hills . In this part is Dyffryn-Clwyd , the fairest Valley within Wales , containing eighteen miles in length , and seven in breadth . In which is the Town and Castle of Ruthl●n , near unto the Sea ; and not far thence , S. Assaph , an Episcopal seat , between the Rivers Clwyd and Elwy . Herein stands the fair Town and goodly Castle of Denbigh , situated upon a Rock , the greatest Market-Town of North-Wales : and from thence is seen the Town and Castle of Ruthyn , fair for prospect , and fruitful for fite . This part of North-Wales hath the Sea upon the North ; d ee toward the East ; Arvon , The River Conwey , and M●ri●nyth upon the West ; and the Country then called P●wys , upon the South . And these were the Mears and Bounds of the four Parts of Vened●tia , Gwyneth , or North-Wales . ( 12 ) The second Talaith or Kingdom , was Mathraval or Powys . To this belonged the Country of Powys , and the Land between Wye and Sev●rne . It hath South-Wales upon the South and West , with the Rivers Wye and Tywy , and other Mears : upon the North , Gwy●eth ; and upon the East , the Marches of England , from Chester to Wye , a little above Hereford . This part was divided into Powis Vadoc , Powis between Wye and Severne , and Powis-We●wynwyn . In Powis-Vadoc is the Castle of Holt in Bromefield and the Castle of Chirke in Chirk●land ; the Castle likewise of Whittington ; and Lordship of Oswestrie , with others . ( 13 ) The second part of Powi● , or the Territory belonging to Mathr●v●l , is Po●is between 〈◊〉 and Severne , ( or Guy and Hauren ) whereof some is at this day in Montgo●ery-shir● , some in Radnor-shire , and some in Brecknock-shire ; and among sundry other , hath these Towns and Castles following . Montgomery : The Castle of Cly● , The Town of Knight●n : The Castle of Cy●aron : Presteyn : The Town and the Castle of Rad●or , called in Welch , Maesyvet , which is at this day the Shire-Town : The Town of Kinton , and the Castle of Huntington . ( 14 ) The third part belonging to Mathraval ( the chief seat of Powis , after the Welsh were driven from Pe●gwern or Shrewsbury ) was Powis Wenwynwy● , a County full of Woods , Hills , and Rivers , having in it among others , the Towns of Welsh-Pool , New-Town , Machin●a●th Arustly was anciently in this part , but afterward it came to them of Gwyneth . This may suffice , for the description of that which in old time was called Gwyneth and Powis . ( 15 ) It now remaineth that we describe the last Kingdom of Wales , called Demetia-Deheubarth , or the Talaith of Dinevowr , which although it was the greatest , yet was it not the best , because it was much molested with Flemings and Normans , and for that also divers parts thereof would not obey their Prince , as in Gwent , and in Morganwe . ( 16 ) This was divided into six parts , of which Cardiga● was the first , and is a Champion Country , without much Wood. It hath Merionyth-shire on the North : part of Powys upon the East : Carmarden-shire and Pembroke-shire , with the River Tivi , upon the South : and upon the West , the Irish-Sea . In this part is the Town of Cardiga● upon Tivi , not far from the Sea ; as also the Town of Aberstwyth upon the River Istwyth ; and L●a●bad●r●evowr , which in times past wa● a great Sanctuary : there were also many Castles ; as of Str●tneyrie , of Walter , of L●an●ysted , of Dyv●rth , and of A●er-Royd●ll , &c. ( 17 ) The second part was called Dyvet , and at this day Pembroke-shire . It hath upon the North and West , the Irish-Sea ; upon the East , Carmarden-shire ; and upon the South , Severne . There are in it sundry Towns and Havens : among others , these : Pembroke : Tenby : Hereford-West , with the goodly and many Branched Haven of Milford , called in Welsh , Aberdangledhett : S. Davids , or Menevia , which is the chiefest See in Wales : Fiscard , called Aberwayn : and Newport , named Tresdreth . ( 18 ) The third part was Carmarden-shire , which is a Country accounted the strongest part of all South-Wales : as that which is full of high Mountains , great Woods , and fair Rivers . ( 19 ) The fourth called Morganwe , now Glamorgan-shire , hath on the South , the Severne-Sea , which divideth it self from Devon-shire and Cornwall upon the West and North-West , Carmardenshire : upon the North-East , Brecknock-shire ; and upon the East , Monmouth-shire . ( 20 ) The fifth now called Gwent , and in Monmouth-shire , hath in it the ancient City of Caerlhe●n upon Vske . There are also divers Towns and Castles , Chepstow , Glynstrygul , Ros , Tynterne upon the River Wye , &c. This is a fair and fertile Country . It hath on the West , Glamorgan and Brecknock-shir●s : upon the North , Hereford-shire : upon the East , Glocester-shire : with the River Wye , and the River Severne upon the South and South-East . ( 21 ) The last is Brecknock-shire , for the most part full of Mountains , Woods and Rivers . This Country is both great and large , being full of fair Plains and Valley , for Corn ; it hath plenty of thick Woods Forrests and Parks . It is full also of clear and deep Rivers , of which Severne is the chiefest ; although , there be other fair Rivers , as Vske and the like . ( 22 ) Thus far concerning the ancient Welsh division by Talaiths : but the present division distributeth them more compendiously into two Countries , and twelve Shires , enacted so by Parliament under King Henry the Eighth . The Countries are North-Wales , and South-Wales , which have shared , and as it were devoured between them , all Powysland ; each of which Countries contains 〈◊〉 Shires . North-Wales , A●gles●y , C●ernarvan , Merionyth , Denbigh . Flint . Montgomery . South-Wales . Cardigan . Pembroke . Carmarden . Glamorgan . Brecknock . Rad●●r . But whereas Monmouth-shire and Radnor , were anciently parts , the first of South-Wales , the other of Powys-land : Monmouth-shire by Act of Parliament also under the same King , was pluckt away wholly from Wales , and laid to England , one of whose Counties and Shires it was from that time forward , and is at this present reckoned ; and Radnor-Shire ( as it were in lieu thereof ) is comprehended in South-Wales . Humphry Hluyd a Welsh Gentleman , in his Epistle and Map of old Wales , maketh mention of a West-Wales , which he calleth Deme●ia and Dyfer , the one the Latine , and the other the British name there : but because it is wholly swallowed up by this last division , we will not perplex the Reader with superfluous and impertinent recitals . PEMBROK Shire map of Pembrokeshire PEMBROKE-SHIRE . CHAPTER II. PEMBROKE-SHIRE the furthest Promonto●y of all West-Wales , li●th parted on the North from Cardigan-shire , with the Rivers Tivy and Keach ; and on the East is Confronted by Caermarden-shire ; the South and West shooting far into the Irish-Seas , is with the same altogether washed . ( 2 ) The form thereof is longer than it is broad ; for from S. Govens South-point to Cardigan-bridge in the North , are twenty six miles ; the Eastern Landenie to S. Davids-point in the West , are twenty miles ; the whole circumference is ninety three miles . ( 3 ) The Air is passing temperate , by the report of Giraldus , who 〈◊〉 his reason from the sit● of Ireland , against which it butteth , and is so nearly adjoyned , that 〈◊〉 Ruf● thought it possible to make a Bridge of his Ships over the Sea , whereby he might pass to 〈◊〉 on foot . ( 4 ) Anciently it was po●●essed by the Demetia , further branched into Cardigan and Caermarden-shires , as in that County hath been said , and in the Saxons Conquest and H●ptarchy , by the Britai●s forced into those parts for refuge , whither H●●ry the First , and third of the Normans Kings , sent certain Flemings ( whose Country was over-whelmed with the breaking in of the Seas ) to inhabit the Maritime Tract called Rosse , lying West upon the River Dougledye . These Dutchmen ( saith Giraldus ) were a strong and stout Nation , inured to Wars , and accustomed to seek gain by Cloathi●g , Traffique , and Tillage , and ever ready for the Field to fight it out , adding withal , that they were most loyal ●o the English , and most faithful to the Englishmen . Whereupon Malmesbury writeth thus : Many a tim● did King William Rufus a●●aile the Welsh , but ●ver in vain : which is to be wondred a● , ●nsid●ring his other fortunate success . But ( saith he it may be the unevenness of the ground , and sharpness of the air , that maintained their courage , and impeached his valour : which to redress , King Henry his Brother found means ; for those Flemings , who in regard of his Mothers kindred by the Fathers side , s●rely pestred and endamaged the English he sent into Wales , both to purge a●d disburden his own Kingdom , and to quell and keep back th● courage of his enemies . These men here seated , deceived not his expectation , but so carried themselves in his quarrel , that they seldome communicated with their Neighbours , so that to this day they speak not the Language , and the Country is yet called Little England beyond Wales . ( 5 ) The Commodities of this Shire are Corn , Cattel , Sea-Fish , and Fowl , and in Giraldus his daies of saleable Wines , the Havens being so commodious for Ships arrivage : such is that at Tenby and Milford , and Haven of such capacity , that sixteen Creeks , ●ive Bays , and thirteen Roads known all by several names 〈◊〉 therein contained , where Henry of Richmond , of most happy memory , arrived with 〈…〉 of E●glands freedom from under the government of an usurping Tyrant . ( 6 ) Near unto this is Pembroke the Shire-Town seated , more ancient in shew than it is in years , and more houses without Inhabitants , than I saw in any one City throughout my Survey . It is walled long-wife , and them but indifferent for repair , containing in circuit eight hundred and fourscore paces , having three Gates of passage , and at the West-end a large Castle , and locked Causey , that leads over the water to the decayed Priory of Monton . The site of this Town is in the degree of Longitude , as Merc●tor doth measure , 14 and 35 minutes , and the Elevation from the North-Pole in the degree of Latitude 52. ( 7 ) A City as barren is old Saint Davids , neither clad with Woods , nor garnished with Rivers , nor beau●ified with Fields , nor adorned with Meadows , but lieth alwaies open both to Wind and Storms . Yet hath it been a Nursery to Holy Men , for herein lived Calphurnius , a Britain Priest , whose Wife was Choncha , Sister to Saint Martin , and both of them the Pa●ents of Saint Patrick the Apostle of Ireland . Devi a most Religious Bishop , made this an Archepiscopal See , removed from Isca Legi●num . This the Britains call Tuy Dewy , the House of Devi : we Saint Davids , : a City with few Inhabitants : yet hath it a fair Cathedral Church , dedicated to Saint Andrew and David , in the midst of whose Quire lieth intombed Edmond Earl of Richmond , Father to King Henry the Seventh : whose Monument ( as the Prebends told me ) spared their Church from other defacements , when all went down under the Hammers of King Henry the Eighth . About this is a fair Wall , and the Bishops Palace , all of Free-Stone , a goodly House I assure you , and of great Receit , whose uncovered Tops cause the curious Works in the Walls daily to weep , and them to fear their downfal ere long . ( 8 ) But Monton the Priory , and S. Dogmels , places of devout piety erected in this County , found not the like favour , when the commission of their dissolutions came down against them , and the axes of destruction cut down the props of their Walls . ( 9 ) This Shire hath been strengthened with sixteen Castles , besides two Block-Houses commandi●g the Mouth of Milf●rd-Haven , and is still traded in five Market-Towns , being divided into seven Hundreds , and in them seated one hundred forty five Pari●h-Churches . RADNOR BREKNOK CARDIGAN and CAERMARTHEN discribed Petrus Kaerius caelavit 1500. map of Radnorshire RADNOR-SHIRE . CHAPTER III. RADNOR-SHIRE , lyeth bordered upon the North with the County Monmouth , upon the East toucheth Shropshire ; and Herefo●dshire ; the Rivers Clarwen and Wye , divide it from Brecknock in the South ; and the West part doth shorten point-wise in Cardigan-shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is in proportion triangle , every side containing almost a like distance : for from West to North are twenty miles ; from North to South , twenty two miles ; and from South to West are twenty four miles : the whole in circumference extending to fourscore and ten miles . ( 3 ) The Air thereof is sharp and cold ( as most of Wales is ) for that the Snow lieth and lasteth long unmelted under those shadowing high Hills and over-hanging Rocks . ( 4 ) The Soil is hungry , though not barren , and that in the East and South the best : the other parts are rough and churlish , and hardly bettered by painful labour ; so that the Riches of the North and West consisted chiefly in the brood of Cattel . ( 5 ) Anciently this County was posse●●ed by the Sil●res , warlike People , and great withstanders of the Romans Impo●itions , who had not only them to ●ight against , but withal the unacce●●ible Mountains , wherewith this Shire is so overpressed and burdened , that many times I feared to look down from the hanging Rocks , whereunder I passed into those deep and dark Dales , seeming to me an entrance into Limb● . Among th●se ( as say our Historia●s ) that hateful Prince to God and Man , V●rtig●r , his Countries scourge , and last Monarch of the British-blood , by Fire from Heaven was consumed with his incestuous Wise , from whom ●ini● nameth the Country wherein his Castle stood , Guartiger-Maur , of whose Rubbish the Castle Guthremion was raised , as some are of opinion . Yet they of North-Wales will have his destruction and Castle to stand in their parts near unto Beth-Kellech , whereof we will further speak in the relation of his Life . Fatal was this place also to Llewellin the last Prince of the British Race , who being betrayed by the Men of Buelth , ●●ed into those vast Mountains of Radnor , where by Adam Francton he was slain , and his Head ( Crowned with Ivy ) set upon the Tower of London . ( 6 ) Places most worthy of note in this Shire , are as ensueth ; The first is Radnor , from whom the County receiveth her name anciently Magi , where the Commander of the Pacensian Regiment lay , and thought to be the Magnos in Antonine the Emperours Survey . This Town is pleasantly seated under a Hill , whereon standeth mounted a large and strong Castle , from whose Bulwark a Trench is drawn along the West of the Town , whereon a Wall of Stone was once raised , as by the remains in many places appeareth . This Trench doth likewise inverge her West-side so far as the River , but after is no more seen : whose Graduation is observed to have the Pole elevated for Latitude 52 degrees , and 45 minutes ; and for Longitude , from the first Point of the West set by Mercator 17 degrees and one minute . Prestayn for beautious building is the best in this Shire , a Town of Commerce , wonderfully frequented , and that very lately . Next is K●ighton , a Market-Town likewise , under which is seen the Clawdh-Offa , or Offaes Dit●h , whose Tract for a space I followed along the edge of the Moun●ain , which was a bound set to separate the Welsh from the English by the Mercian King Offa : and by Egber● the Monarch , a Law made , by the instigation of his Wife , that it should be present death for the Welsh to pass over the same , as Iohn Bever the Monk of Westminster reporteth : and the like under H●●ald as Iohn of Salisbury writeth ; wherein it was ordained : that what Welshman soever should be found with any weapon on this side of that Limit , which was Offaes Ditch , should have his right hand cut off by the Kings Officers . The fourth place for account is Raihader Gowy , who besides the great fall of Wye with a continual noyse , hath her Markets there kept upon the Sabbath , which I there observed , and here note for an offence . ( 7 ) Many Rivers arise and run thorow this Shire , which were it not that the Hills so cluster together might make the Soyl both fertile and fat . Such are Teme , Lug , Ithon , Clowdok , Dulas , Comatton , Somegill , Guithel , Arro , Machaway , Edway , Hawye , Eland , Clarwen , and Wye , besides other Lo●ghs that stand betwixt the Hills . This Shire is divided into six Hundreds , wherein are seated three Forrests , four Market-Towns , si● Castles , and fifty two Parish-Churches . BRECKNOCK-SHIRE . CHAPTER IV. BRECKNOCK-SHIRE , in the British language Brethin●a● , ( so called as the Welshmen relate , of a Prince named Brecha●ius , the Father of an holy off-spring , whose twenty four Daughters were all of them Saints ) is a County neither very large , nor greatly to be praised or disliked of , whose bounds upon the North is parted from Radn●r with the Rivers Clarwen and Wye : the West lyeth butted upon by Cardigan and Caermarden-shires : the South is confined by Glamorgan : and the East with Monmouth and Radnor-shires , is wholly bound . ( 2 ) The length of this Shire from North to South , betwixt L●anuthel and I●tradgunles , are twenty eight English miles ; and her breadth from East to West , extended betwixt Frentisso and Elywell , are twenty miles ; the whole circumference , about one hundred and two miles . ( 3 ) This County is full of Hills , and uneven for travel , which on the South part mount in such height that as Giraldus hath written , They make the Air much colder , and defend the Country from the excessive heat of the Sun , where by a certain natural wholsomness of Air maketh it most temperate : and on the East side the Mountains of Tolgar and Ewias do as it were fore fence the same . Among which , there arise and run so many fruitful Springs , that their Vallies are thereby made most fertile , yielding in plenty both Corn and Grass . ( 4 ) The ancient Inhabitants and possessors of this Shire , with the rest in this South Tract , were the Silures , much spoken of , and great opposers to the Romans , whose Countries were first made subject by Iulius Frontinus , who besides the valour of the enemy , had to struggle with the Mountains and Straits , as Tacitus tells us ; neither any more hard , we may well say , than them of this Shire ; whereof one in the South , and three miles from Brecknock , is of such height and operation , as is uncredible : and were it not , that I have witness to affirm what I shall speak , I should blush to let the report thereof pass from my Pen : In my Perambulation in these parts , remaining in Br●cknock to observe the site of that Town , the Aldermen or chief Seniors thereof regarding my pains with friendly and courteous entertainments , at my departure , no less than eight of them , that had been Bailiffs of the Town , came to visite me ; where they reported upon their Credit and Trials , that from the top of that Hill , in the Welsh called Mounch-denny , or Cadier Arthur , they had oftentimes cast from them ▪ and down the North-East Rock , their Cloaks , Hats , and Staves , which notwithstanding would never fall , but were with the Air and Wind still returned back , and blown up : neither , said they , will any thing descend from that Cliffe being so cast , unless it be stone or some Metalline substance : affirming the cause to be the Clouds , which are seen to rack much lower than the top of that Hill. As strange Tales are told of the Mear Llynsavathan , two miles by East from Brecknock , which at the breaking of her frozen Ice , maketh a fearful sound like unto Thunder . In which place , as is reported , sometimes stood a fair City , which was swallowed up in an Earthquake , and resigned her Stone-Walls unto this deep and broad Water : whither unto this day leadeth all the waies in this Shire : which , as learned Camd●n conjectureth , might be that Loventrium , which Ptolomy in this Tract placeth ; and the more confirmed by the Rivers name adjoyning , being also called Lovenny , which River also passeth thorow this Mear without any mixture of her waters , as by the colour thereof is well perceived , which glideth through it with the same stream , and no greater than wherewith she first entred in . ( 5 ) The Towns for Commerce , are Hay , Bealt , and Brecknock , two of them unfortunate of their former greatness , whom Wars and sedition have defaced and cast down . Hay upon Wye and Dulas , pleasant for situation , in the Rebellion of Owen Glendowerdy , was diswalled , depopulated , and burnt , in whose foundations for new repairs , many Roman Coyns have been found : and thereby thought to be the Seat of their Legions : and Buelth , now Bealt , though of good frequency , yet not so great as when Ptolomy observed her position for graduation , who calleth it Buleum Silurum , neither when it with the Country was possessed by Aurelius Ambrosius , by whose permission Pascentius the Son of Vortiger ruled all , as Ninius writeth ; nor yet as of later times , when Leolin the last Prince of the Britains , was therein betrayed and slain . ( 6 ) Brecknock the Shire-Town , for Buildings and Beauty retaineth a better regard , whose Walls in Oval-wise are both strong and of good repair , having three Gates for Entrance , with ten Towers for defence , and is in circuit six hundred and forty paces about , upon whose West part a most sumptuous and stately Castle is seated , the like whereof is not commonly seen , whose decayes approaching do increase her ruins daily , and in the end is feared will be her fall . This Town is seated upon the meeting of two Rivers , Houthy and Vske , whose yearly Government is committed to two Bailiffs , fifteen Aldermen , two Chamberlains , two Constables , a Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants their Attendants , having the Poles Elevation in 52 , 21 minutes of Latitude , and for Longitude is placed in the 16 and 32 minutes , as the Mathematicians do measure them . ( 7 ) This Shire is strengthened with nine Castles divided into six Hundreds , wherein are seated three Market-Towns , and sixty one Parish-Churches . CARDIGAN-SHIRE . CHAPTER . V. CARDIGAN-SHIRE , ( in the Welsh called Sire Aber-Tivi ) is parted on the North from Merioneth-shire with the River Dovi ; by the Plinillimon Hills from Montgomery-shire in part of her East ; and the rest from Brecknock shire , with the water Towy ; and with Tyvy altogether on the South from Caermarden-shire : The West is wholly washed with the Irish-Sea . ( 2 ) The Form thereof is Horn-like , bowing compass , long and narrow , and growing wider stll towards the North : so that from Cardigan , the Shire-Town and uttermost point in the South , unto the River Dovi , her farthest North-bounder , are thirty two miles : and from the head of Clarwan in the East , to Abersthwyth on her West , the broadest part in the Shire , are only fifteen : the whole in circumference is one hundred and three miles . ( 3 ) The Air is open and somewhat piercing ; The Soil is hilly , and ( Wales like ) uneven : yet more plain and champion towards the Sea , than in the East or North of the Land. For besides that great and high Hill called Plinillimon , a continual range of lesser doth shoot along , yielding in their Vallies both goodly rich Pastures , and very large Pools , which being assisted with Springs from the Rocks , do branch themselves as Veins in the Body , and make fruitful their passages unto the Sea. In Tyuy one of these , as Giraldus hath written , the Beaver hath been found , a Creature living both by Land and Water , whose Stones the Physicians hold in great price . His fore●eet are like unto a Dog , but the hinder whole skinned , as is the Goose : the Dog-like serve him on shore for to run ; and the Goose-like as Oars give him swift motion in swimming ; his Tail broad and gristly , he useth as a Stern , wherewith on the sudden he can divert his swi●t floating course . But this creature in these parts a long time hath not been seen , whose room we may well say the Salmon hath possessed , who still coveting fresh-water-Rivers , at their down-right falls useth this policy : He bendeth himself backward , and taketh his Tail in his Mouth , and with all his strength unloosing his circle on the sudden ( as a Lath let go ) mounteth up before the fall of the Stream ; whereupon such water-falls are called the Salmons-leap : and in these Rivers many such Salmons are caught . ( 4 ) The Commodities of this Shire chiefly consist in Cattel , Sea-Fowl , and Fish ; Corn sufficient , but of Woods some scarcity ; and at the Head of Istwyd are certain Veins of Lead , a Merchandize of no mean regard or wealth . ( 5 ) The ancient People that possessed this Province , were the Dim●tae , by Ptolomy branched thorow the Tract of Caermarden , Pembroke , and this Shire ; who in their struglings against the Romans , did not a little rely upon Caractacus their most warlike King , ( from whose name , though unlikely , some will have the Shire called Cardigan ) yet lastly felt the fortune of subjection with the rest , when Iulius Frontinus warred with these Mountains . Scarce had the Normans setled their Kingdom in Britain , but that they a●●ailed this County , as well to enjoy so fair a Possession , as to secure those Seas from any Invasion against them : so that Rufu● first wrested from the Welshmen the Maritime Coasts , and Henry the first gave the whole County to Gilbert de Clare . ( 6 ) This Gilbert fortified Cardig●n , and Shire-Town , with a Wall and strong Castle , whose aged Lineaments do to this day shew the industry both of Nature and Art : for the Town is seated upon a steep bank , her South side guarded with the deep River Tyvy , and passable no way but by a bridge under the Castle . The Walls take the advantage of the rising Rocks , and circulate the Town even round about . The Castle is higher built upon a Rock , both spacious and fair , had not Storms impaired her beauty , and time left her carkass a very Anatomy . The Walls range as thou feest , and are indifferent for repair , having three ways for entrance , and contain in compass six hundred and fourscore paces : whose position for Latitude is in the degree 52 , 33 minutes from the North-pole , and for Longitude from the first West point by M●rc●tor , in the degree 15 and 10 minutes . ( 7 ) This Shire , as it is little in circuit , so accordingly is besprinkled with Townships , whereof four only have the Trade of Markets : neither find I other remembrance of religious Foundations , but at Cardigan , Istradfleet , and at Llan B●dern Vaur , where sometimes was seated an Episcopal See , which ( as Hoveden writeth ) was decayed many years since , when the people had wickedly stain their Pastor . And yet Llan-Devi-brevi , built and so called in memory of the most famous David Bishop of Menevia , was in great esteem , where in a frequent Synod there holden , he refuted the Pelagian-Heresie , sprung up again in Britain , both by the authority of holy Scriptures , and also by miracle , as is reported , while the earth whereon he stood and preached , rose up unto a certain height under his Feet . ( 8 ) The Shires Division , for businesses belonging either to the Crown or Common-wealth , is into five Hundreds , wherein are seated four Market-Towns , and sixty four Parish-Churches for Gods Divine and daily Service . CAERMARDEN-SHIRE . CHAPTER VI. CAERMARDEN-SHIRE , so called from the chief Town Caermarden , lyeth bordered upon the South , with Cardigan-shire ; upon her East , by Brecknock and Glamorgan-shires ; upon the South , with a Bay of the British-Seas ; and upon the West with Pembroke-shire . ( 2 ) The form of this County is long , and shooteth it self from the South-West into the North and by East , betwixt whose further bounds are thirty five English miles , and in her broadest part twenty miles ; the whole in circumference about one hundred and two miles . ( 3 ) This Shire is not altogether so pestred with Hills as her bordering Neighbors are : and those that she hath , neither so high nor so thick , and therefore is better for Corn and Pasturage , yea and in Woods also , so that for Victuals this County is very well stored , which the Stomach doth as well digest , the Air being wholsome , temperate , and pleasing . ( 4 ) Anciently these parts were possessed by the Dimetree , as Ptolomy , Gildas , and Ninius do name them : though Pliny holds opinion that they were part of the Silures , with whom no doubt they were subdued to the Romans yoke by Iulius Frontinus , when he struggled with the Rocky Hills in those Southern parts . And this County is accounted by Writers to be the very strength of South-Wales . In the West thereof , at Kilmanlloid ( as it should seem ) their Legions were kept , where lately an earthen Pot hoarded with store of Roman-Coyns , was by the Spade digged up , being stamped upon imbased Silver , from the time of Commodus unto the first Tribuneship of Gordian the third , which fell in the year of Christ two hundred forty three : and amongst these were the Coyns of Helvius Pertinax , Marcus Opellius , Antonius Diadumenianus , Iulius Veru● Maximu● , the Son of Maximus , of Coelius Balbinus , of Clodius Pupienus , of Aquilla Severa , the wife of Heliogabalus , and of Soll. Barbia Orbiana● pieces rarely found . ( 5 ) The Commodities of this Shire chiefly consist in Cattel , Pit-coal , Fowl , and Sea-Fish , whereof the Salmon is common among them , and that of such greatness and plenty , as no place is better furnished therewith than the Shire-Town Caermarden is . ( 6 ) Which Town by Ptolomy is called Maridunum ; by Antonin● the Emperour , Muridunum ; by the Britains , Caerfridhin ; and by us , Caermarden . It is pleasantly seated upon the South-West side of the River Tovy , that runneth through the midst of this Shire , and falleth South from hence into the British Sea , where before-times was a convenient Haven for Ships arrivage , but now is sore pestred with Sands and Shelves ▪ notwithstanding some small Vessels ascend up the River , even unto the Bridge of this Town , which is fairly built of Free-stone . And over the same , upon a hanging Rock , standeth a very large Castle , from whose Stone-wall another intermingled with Brick rangeth about the Town , being in circuit one thousand and four hundred paces . The Inhabitants of this place do not a little glory of their Merlin , who ( as they say ) was therein born the Son of a bad Angel , or of an Incubus Spirit , the Britains great Apollo , whom Geffery ap Arthur would rank with the South-saying Seer , or rather with the true Prophets themselves : being none other than a meer Seducer and Phantastical Wizard : which howsoever Alani de Insulis in his Commentaries hath laboured to unlock those dark and hidden Similies , wherewith his Book is pestred and full , yet was it not without cause forbid the reading by the Council of Trent , as vain , and not worthy of Countenance or Credit . At the entrance of the Normans this Town was brought under their obedience , and for a long time was distressed with the Calamities of War , yet afterwards was made by the English Princes the Chancery and Exchequer of all South●Wales : And at this day is yearly governed by a Maior , who ever after is an Alderman and Iustice of the Peace , two Sheriffs elected out of sixteen Burgesses , all of them in Scarlet , a Sword-Bearer , a Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants with Maces : from whence the Pole is raised 52 degrees 15 minutes in Latitude , and for Longitude is in the degree 15 and 30 minutes from the first point in the West , according to Mercator . ( 7 ) East from this place are the ruines of Carreg-Castle , which stood mounted on a high Hill , under the which many Vaults and spacious Caves far into the ground are seen , wherein is thought the People unable to ●ight , were therein secured in time of their Wars . Where also is a Well ( take the report from Giraldus , who writeth it ) that in this place twice in four and twenty hours ●bbing , and twice flowing resembleth the unstable motions of the main Sea. ( 8 ) This Shire is watred with twenty eight Rivers and Rivelets of name , strengthned with ten Castles , traded in six Market-Towns , divided into six Hundreds , wherein are seated fourscore and seven Parish-Churches . GLAMORGAN Shire map of Glamorganshire GLAMORGAN-SHIRE . CHAPTER VII . GLAMORGAN-SHIRE , as some think , named from Prince Morgan the possessor thereof , or according to others , is taken from Morgan an Abbey , founded by William Earl of Glocester , upon the Sea-shoar in the South of this Shire , lyeth bounded upon that part altogether with the British-Sea , the West by Logor is parted from Caermarden-shire ; the North butteth upon the County of Brecknock ; and the East by Remney is divided from Monmouth . ( 2 ) The form of this Shire groweth still wider from her West-point , spreading her broadest touch in the East , betwixt which extreams I find by measure to be well-near forty English miles , and from North to South , not altogether twenty miles : the whole in circumference , about one hundred and twelve miles . ( 3 ) The Air is temperate , and gives more content to the mind , than the Soil doth fruit or ease unto Travellers . The Hills being high and very many , which from the North notwithstanding are lessened as it were by degrees ; and towards the Sea-coasts , the Countrey becometh somewhat plain , which part is the best , both for plenty of Grain , and populous of Inhabitants . The rest all Mountain , is replenished with Cattel , which is the best means unto wealth that this Shire doth afford ; upon whose Hills you may behold whole Heards of them feeding ; and from whose Rocks most clear springing waters thorow the Vallies trickling , which sportingly do pass with a most pleasant sound , and did not a little revive my wearied spirits among those vast Mountains , imployed in their search : whose infancy at first admitted an easie step over ; but grown unto strength , more boldly forbad me such passage , and with a more stern countenance held on their Iourney unto the British-Seas ; and Ta●e among these is accounted for a chief . ( 4 ) Upon whose fall , and East-bank , the fairest Town of all South-Wales is seated , the Britains Caerdid , the English Caerdiffe , which Fitz-Haimon fortified with a Wall and Castle , in the Reign of King Rufus , when he and his Norman-Knights had overcome Rhese the Prince of these parts , and thrust out Iustine from his lawful possession . This Town he made his own Seat and Court of Iustice , enjoyning his Consorts to give Aid to this honour , and to hold their Portions in Vassallage of him . Strong was the Castle , as by the trust therein reposed may well appear , where the youngest brother Bea●clark kept Captive the eldest Curthose , both of them Sons to the Conquerour , the space of twenty six years . This Castle is large , and in good repair , whence the Town-Wall went both South and East to the Rivers side , thorow which , four Gates enter into the four Winds , and contain in compass nine hundred and twenty paces ; and along the River ( a sure defence ) upon her West-side , three hundred more ; so that the Town containeth in circuit twelve hundred and fourscore paces . But as the Tave is a friend to the Town , in making a Key for arrivage of shipping ; so is she a foe to S. Maries Church in the South , with undermining her Foundations , and threatning her fall . The Town is governed by a Mayor , yearly elected out of twelve Aldermen , assisted with other twelve Burgesses , a Town-Clerk , four Constables , and two Sergeants with Maces : whose site is observed from the North-Star to lie in the degree of Latitude 51 and 49 scruples , and from the ●irst point in the West , 16 and 53 scruples . ( 5 ) In the same graduation almost is sited the City Landaf , wherein is a Castle and Cathedral Church , dedicated to S. Telean , Bishop of the same , without any other memorable matter worthy the speaking of . ( 6 ) But things of strange Note are these , by the report of Giraldus , who affirmeth that in a Rock or Cliffe upon the Sea-side , and Island Barry , lying near the South-East point of this County , is heard out of a litttle chink ( let him take heed what he faith ) the noise as it it were of Smiths at their work ; one whiles ●he blowing of Bellows to increase the heat , then the str●aks of the Hammer , and sound of the Anvil ; sometim●s the noise of the Grind stone in grinding of Iron Tools ; then the hissing Sparks of Steel●gads , as they flie from their ●eating , with the puffing noise of Flames in a Furnace . And whether this is the place whereof Clemens Alexandrinus speaketh , I de●ermine not ; where in his Writings he hath these words ; They that have recorded Histories ( saith he ) do say , that in the Isle of Britain , there is a certain Hole or Cave under th● bottom of an Hill , and on the top thereof a gaping Chink , into the which when the Wind is gathered , and tossed to and fro in the Womb or concavity thereof , there is heard above , a sound of Cymbals : for the Wind being driven back from his hole , is forced to make a loud sound as her vent . ( 7 ) More Westward from hence , upon the River Ogmore , and neer unto Newton , in a sandy plain about an hundred paces from Severne , there springeth a Well , though not of the clearest water , where at the flowing and fulness of the Sea , can hardly any water be gotten ; but at the Ebb and Fall o● Tide it walloweth up amain . The cause may be , as Polibius reports of the like at Cadys ; Wherein the windy air , when it is deprived of his ●onted issues , forcibly returneth , shutting and stopping up the pa●sages and veins of the Spring , whereby the waters are kept in . But contrariwise when the surface thereof is void and empty of water , the veins of the Source or Spring are unstopped and set free , which then boileth up in great abundance . ( 8 ) And upon the same Shoar more North and by West , on the top of an Hill called Minyd-Marga● , is erected a Monument inscribed with a strange Character , and as strange a conceit held thereof by the by-dwellers whose opinions are possessed , that if any man read the same , he shall shortly after die . This Shire , as it is the furthest Coast of South-Wales , and lay open to forrain Invasion ; so was it fortified with twenty five stronger Castles , whereof times and storms have devoured the most : such were Barry , Saint D●neits , Denispowis , Morlashe , Meneshe , Logh●r , Llanddeny , Llanquian , Oxwich , Oystermouth , Ogmor , Pile , Porkery , Pennarth , Winston , Newcastle , Caersly , Coche , Peullyn , Kethligar●● , Kenfeage , Tallavan , Treer , and Cothy . Neither was the County so ill seated for sufficiency of Life , or barren of Grain , but that therein were planted places for divine piety : such were Neath , Margan , and Caerdif , besides the Episcopal See of Landaf , which last still remaineth ; the other three suppressed among the fall of their like , under King Henry the eight . This Shire is divided into ten Hundreds , wherein are seated six Market-Towns , and one hundred and eighteen Parish-Churches . Mounmouth Shire map of Monmouthshire MONMOUTH-SHIRE . CHAPTER VIII . MONMOUTH-SHIRE , from Monmouth Town , and that from Monnowe-water bearing name , is altogether inclosed on the North , and is separated from Hereford-shire with the same River , upon the East both it and Wye divides this County from Glocester-shire . The South-side is wholly wa●hed by the Severne-Sea , and some of her We●t part by Rempney is parted from Glamorgan , and the rest lyeth bordered upon by Brecknock shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is Scallop-wise , both long and broad , shooting her North point to Llantony , and her South to the fall of Rempney , betwixt which two are twenty four English miles : and from Chep●tow East to Blanagwent West , are not altogether nineteen miles : the whole in circuit draweth somewhat neer to seventy seven miles . ( 3 ) The Air is temperate , healthful and clear , the Soil is hilly , woody and rich , all places fruitful , but no place barren . The Hills are grased upon by Cattel and Sheep , the Vallies are laden with Corn and Grass , never ungrateful of the Husbandmans pains , nor makes frustrate his hope of expected increase ; whose Springs abundantly ris●ng in this County with many Streams , do fatten the Soil even from side to side . ( 4 ) Anciently the Silures inhabited this Shire , whose chief City by the Emperour Antonine is named Venta Silurum , by the Welsh-Caer●●ent , and was by Tathaie the British Saint , made an Academy , and a divine place for Worship . So likewise Caer-lion now , once Is●a , was where the second Roman Legion called Augusta lay , as by their Coins , Altars , Tables , and Inscriptions there found , and daily therein digged up , doth evidently appear . By the report of Giraldm , in this City was the Court of great Arthur , whither the Roman Embassadors resorted unto him ; and as Alexander Elsebiensis writeth , therein was a School of two hundred Philosophers , skilful in Astronomy and other Arts. Which is the more credible , for that Amphibalus , S. Albant Instructer , was therein born , and Iulius and Aaron , two noble Proto-Martyrs of great Britain , in this City received the Crown of Martyrdom , where their Bodies were also interred . But as all things find their fatal period , so this City for beauty , circuit , and magnifical respect , is laid in the ruines of her own decay : neither may any more lament the loss of glory than Monmouths Castle , which Captive-like doth yield to conquering Time. Her down-cast Stones from those lofty Turrets do shew what beauty once it bare , standing mounted round in compass , and within her Walls another Mount , whereon a Tower of great height and strength is built , which was the birth place of our Conquering Henry , the great Triumpher over France , but now decayed , and from a Princely Castle , is become no better than a regardless Cottage . In this Town a beautiful Church built with three Isles is remaining , and at the East-end a most curiously built ( but now decayed ) Church stands , called the Monks Church : In the Monastery whereof , our great Antiquary Geoffery , surnamed Monmouth , and ap Art●ur , wrote his History of Great Britain : whose pains as they were both learned and great , so have they bred great pains among the learned both to defend and to disprove . The Towns situation is pleasant and good , seated betwixt the Rivers Monnow and Wye : three Gates yet stand , besides that Tower or Lock of the Bridge , and a Trench or Tract of Wall running betwixt them on each side down to the River , containing in circuit about eight hundred paces . The Town is in good repair , and well frequented , governed by a Mayor , two Bailiffs , fifteen Common-Co●●ellors , a Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants for their Attendance . It is in Latitude removed from the Equator 52 degrees and 8 minutes , and from the West point of Longitude is set in the degree 17 , 36 minutes . Religious Houses erected and suppressed in this Shire , for greatest account have been in Caerlion , Chepstow , Gold-cliff , Monmouth and Llantony ; which last stood so solitary , and among Hills , that the Sun was not seen to shine there , but only betwixt the hours of one and three . This Shire is strengthned with fourteen Castles , traded with six Market-Towns , divided into six Hundreds , wherein are situated one hundred twenty and seven Parish-Churches , and is not accounted among the Welsh-shires , being subdued by Henry the Second , who passing the Nant-Pe●-carne , a small Brook and of no danger , yet held fatal by the Welsh , over credulous to a Prophecy of Merlyn Sylvester the British Apollo , who had fore-shewed that when a stout and freckled fac'd King ( such as Henry was ) should pass over that Ford , then the power of the Welshmen should be brought under ; whereby their stout courage was soon abated , and the whole County the sooner in subjection to the English. Montgomerie Merionidh Shires map of Montgomeryshire and Merionethshire MOUNTGOMERY-SHIRE . CHAPTER IX . MOUNTGOMERY-SHIRE , in the British speech called Siretrefaldwin , and that of the principal Town Mountgomery , lyeth bounded upon the North with Denbigh-shire , upon the East with Shrop-shire , on the South with Radnor and Cardigan-shires , and on the West with Merioneth shire . ( 2 ) In form it somewhat resembleth a Pear or Pine-apple , as it were growing out of the West , and rising thence with many high Hills and plentiful Springs , which water and make fruitful the Soil every where : whose searching rills with a longing desire haste ever forward to find an increase , and to augment their growth into a bigger body , whereof the Severne is the chief , and the second River in the Land : whose Head rising from the spired Mountain Plynillimon , runneth not far without the Receits of other Rivolets into her Stream , and with many Wings doth sport her self thorow all the East-part of this Shire . ( 3 ) That this River took her name from Abren , the beautiful base daughter of Locrinus , begotten out of Wedlock upon Estrildis the daughter of Humber the Scythian King , that invaded this Land , and both of them drowned in this River by Guendolena King Locrinus surviving Widow : let Geoffrey relate , and Poets enlarge , whereof one among them in good account , thus writeth : — In flumen praaecipitatur Abren , Nomen Abren fluvio de Virgine , nomen eidem Nomine corrupto , deinde Sabrina datur . Into this stream fair Abren headlong-cast , Gave name of Abren to those waters vast , Corruptly call'd Sabrina now at last , ( 4 ) The River maketh the East part of this Shire for fruitfulness to be compared with most of the Land , and to exceed any other Shire in Wales : the West-side is more hilly and less inhabited , yet surely those mountains breed innumerable of Cattel , especially of Horses , whose Portraiture for making and incomparable swiftness , Giraldus Cambrensis Arch-Deacon of Brecknock , doth greatly commend . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants that were seated in Gwineth and Powisland , whereof this Shire was a part , were to the Romans known by the name of ORDOVICES , a puissant and couragious Nation , whose Hearts and Hills held them the longest free from the Yoke of Subjection , either of the Romans or English : for unto the daies of Domitian , they kept plea with the Romans , and were not brought to the will of the English before the Reign of King Edward the first . Those ORDOVICES inhabited the Counties of Mountgomery , Merioneth , Caernarvan , Denbigh , and Flint , which are of us called now North-Wales , a people generous and of affable conditions , goodly for feature , fair of complexion , couragious of mind , courteous to strangers , and that which is most commendable , most true and loyal to the English Crown . Towns for Trades and Commerce in this County are six : the chiefest thereof and Shire-Town is Mountgomery , very wholsome for Air , and pleasant for situation , upon an easie ascent of an Hill , and upon another far higher mounted , stands a fair and well-repaired Castle , from the East-Rock whereof , the Town hath been walled , as by some part yet standing , and the Tract and Trench of the rest even unto the North-side of the said Castle , may evidently be seen : whose graduation for Latitude is placed in the degree 53 , and for Longitude 17 , the lines cutting each other in the site of this Town . This Town hath lately received the Honour and Title of an Earldome , whereof Philip Herbere the second Son of Henry Earl Pembroke , was created the first , in Anno 1605. And the Shire divided into seven Hundreds , wherein are seated six Market-Towns , and forty seven Parish-Churches . MERIONETH-SHIRE . CHAPTER . X. MERIONETH-SHIRE , which the Britains call Sire Verioneth , and in Latine Mervia ; is bordered upon the North by Car●arvon and Denbigh-shires , upon the East with Mountgomery , upon the South by the River Dowy , is parted from Cardigan-shire , and the West side altogether washed with the Irish-Seas , whose rage with such vehemency beateth against her Banks , that it is thought and said , some quantity of the Land hath been swallowed up by those Seas . ( 2 ) In form this Shire somewhat resembleth a Welsh-Harp , though small is the Musick that to her Inhabitants she makes , being the roughest , and most unpleasant to see to ( as Giraldus their own Historian writeth ) in all Wales . The Air for great pleasure , nor Soil for great profit , I cannot greatly commend , unless it be for the many and mighty great winds , that for the most part therein do rage , and the spired Hills clustred together so near and so high , as the same Author affirmeth , that Shepherds upon their tops falling at odds in the morning and challenging the Field for fight , before they can come together to try out the quarrel , the day will be spent , and the heat of their fury shut up with their sleep . ( 3 ) These mountains formerly did abound with Wolves , for whose avoidance Edgar the peaceable , did impose ( as Malmesbury writeth ) a yearly Tribute of three hundred Wolves , upon Ludwall Prince of that Country , whereby in three years space they were quite destroyed : and now their faces are covered with fruitful Flocks of Sheep , besides Neat and other Cattel that therein abundantly do grase , w●erein the only riches of this Shire doth consist : for by reason of this unevenness of the Soil and Rocks so near the face of the Earth , the Plough cannot be drawn , nor the Corn prosper , which some have imputed to the idleness of the Inhabitants , wherein they have been greatly wronged . ( 4 ) These People are a part of the Ordovices , of whom we have spoken , who by the advantage of these Mountains held out with the longest against the Romans , and their Necks not brought under the yoke of Bondage before the daies of King Edward the first ; since when they have attempted to cast off their subjection to the English , upon those stirs raised by Owen Glendover , who having been a Favorite of King Richard the second , and discontented by King Henry the fourth , in a quarrel with the Lord Grey of Rut●in , that intruded upon his demains , quarrelled with the King , and entred into open Rebellion and Confederacy with all other his Rebels , drawing the Welsh-men wholly to his side , in hope to have had Princes restored of their own blood : and he maintained the same with wonderful pride , policy , and obstinacy for a long time , until his Confederates , Followers and Favorites , and his own courage , credit , and maintenance , were brought so low by that powerful King , that in the end he perished for very want of Food . ( 5 ) Their Towns are not many , neither those that they have of any stately Buildings , whereof Bala , Dolgelhe , and Harlech are the Markets . By Bala in the North-East of this County , in the Welsh L●integid , in English , Pimble-mear , a great Pool of Water doth drown at least threescore Acres of ground : whose nature is , as the report doth pass , that the High-land Floods , though never so great , cannot make her swell bigger by their receits ▪ but if the Air be troubled with over great blasts and tempests of Winds , she , in as great a rage , riseth and passeth her Banks , as if she would encounter that enemy in fight . Into the South whereof the two headed Dee with a pretty sharp stream entreth , and through the same glideth without any mixture of the same water , as the Inhabitants believe : more strongly conceited in their opinion , for that the Salmon , usually taken in Dee , is never found in that Pool ; and the Fish called Guiniad , bread in that Mear , never is seen in the River D●● South thence near Dolgelhe , in a lower Hill , a great Rampire of Stone and compass is seen , and hath been some fortification or defence in War : which whilst we were curious to find out some instructions thereof , by report this only we learned , that it was called Caddoryrita Dr●n , according to the name of her neighbour and far higher Hill. ( 6 ) Upon the West and Sea-shore of this Shire , Harlech a Market and Mayor-Town standeth bleak enough and barren , but only for Fowl and Fish ; Houses not many , neither curiously built , wherein ●tandeth a little Chappel decayed and without use , in which lieth buried Sir Richard Thimbleby , an English Knight , who for the delight he took in that game , removed his abode from a far better Soil . Here also standeth a most strong and beautiful Castle , mounted upon a Hill , and with a double Bulwark walled about , commanding the Sea , and passage of entrance of such as seek to invade the Coast : and surely a great pity it is to see so fair a Work fall to decay : the Constable whereof by Patent is ever the Mayor of this Town ; near unto which are two great Inlets of Seas , which at low water may be pa●sed upon the Sands with Guides . Upon whose Shore , as upon the Sea Coasts in this County , abundance of Herrings are caught , for which cause they are much frequented in the season of the year , by many People from divers Countries . ( 7 ) This Town being the chiefest of the Shire , The Pole shall be elevated only from thence , whose height for Latitude standeth in the degree 53 , 29 minutes , and for Longitude in the 15 , 47 minutes . The whole being bivided into six Hundreds , wherein are feared thirty seven Parishes-Churches . DENBIGH and FLINT discribed map of Denbighshire and Flintshire DENBIGH-SHIRE . CHAPTER XI . DENBIGH-SHIRE , called in Welsh , Sire Denbigh , retiring more from the Sea within the Country , on this side of the River Conwey shooteth Eastward in one place as far as to the River Dee : on the North , first the Sea , ( for a small space ) and then Flint-shire encompasseth it : on the West , Caernarvan and Merioneth shire : on the East , Cheshire and Shropshire ; and on the South , Mountgomery shire . ( 2 ) The form thereof is long , growing wider still towards the North-West , and narrower towards the East . It is in length from East to West , one and thirty miles ; and in breadth from North to South , seventeen miles : in the whole circuit and circumference , one hundred and fourteen miles . ( 3 ) The Air is very wholsome and pleasant , yet bleak-enough , as exposed to the winds on all sides , and the high Hills , wherewith it is in many places environed , long retaining the congealed Snow . The tops whereof , in the Summer time , are the Harvest-Mens Almanacks , by the rising of certain Vapours thereon in the Mornings , and foreshew a fair Day ensuing . ( 4 ) The Soil is but barren towards the West-part : yet the middle , where it lieth flat in a Valley , is most fertile . The East-side , when it is once past the Valley , findeth Nature to be a very sparing niggard of her favours : but next unto Dee it feeleth a more liberal extent of her blessings . The West part is but here and there inhabited , and mounteth up more than the other with bare and hungry Hills ; yet the leanness of the Soil ( where the Hills settle any thing flatting ) hath been now a good while begun to b● overcome by the diligent pains and careful industry of the Husbandmen ; for they parting away the upper Coat of the Earth into certain Turffs , with a broad kind of Spade , pile them up artificially on heaps , and fire them , so as being turned into Ashes , and thrown upon the ground so pared , they fructifie the hungry barrenness and sterility of Soil , and make the Fields bring forth a kind of Rie or Amell-Corn , in such plenty , as is hardly to be believed . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Country were the Ord●vices , who being also named Ordevices , or Ordovicae : a puissant and couragious People , by reason they kept wholly in a mountainous place , and took heart even of the Soil it self : for they continued longest free from the Yoke both of Roman , and also of English dominion . They were not subdued by the Romans , before the dayes of the Emperour Domitian ( for then Iulius Agricol● conquered almost the whole Nation ) nor brought under the command of the English , before the Reign of King Edward the First ; but lived a long time in a lawless kind of liberty , as bearing themselves bold upon their own magnanimity , and the strength of the Country . ( 6 ) The Mountains of this County yield sufficiency of Neat , Sheep , and Goats . The Valleys in most places are very plenteous of Corn , especially Eastward on this side , betwixt the Rivers of Alen and Dee ; But the most Westerly part is Heathy , and altogether barren . The heart of the Shire shews it self beneath the Hills , in a beautiful and pleasant Vale , reaching seventeen miles in length from South to North , and five miles , or thereabouts , in breadth , and lieth open only toward the Sea. It is environed on every side with high Hills , amongst which , the highest is Moillenly , on the top whereof is a warlike Fence with Trench and Rampier , and a little Fountain of clear Water . From these Hills the River Cluyd resorts unto this Vale , and from the very Spring-head ( increased with Becks and Brooks ) doth part it in twain , running through the midst of it ; whereof in ancient time it was named Strat-Cluyd : for Marianus maketh mention of a King of the Strat-Cluyd of the W●lsh : And at this day it is commonly called Diffryn-Cluyd , that is , The Vale of Cluyd . This thing is worthy observation , as a matter memorable , both for admiration and antiquity , that in the Parish of Lan-sanan within this Country , there is a place compass cut out of the main Rock by Mans hand , in the side of a Stony Hill , wherein there be four and twenty Seats to sit in , some less , some bigger , where children and young men , coming to seek their Cattel , use to sit , and to have their sports . And at this day they commonly call it Arthurs Round Table . ( 7 ) Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln , obtaining Denbigh by the Grant of King Edward the First , after the Conviction and Beheading of David Brother of Llewelin for High-Treason , was the first that fortified it with a Wall about , nor large in circuit , but very strong , and on the South-side with a fair Castle , strengthned with many high Towers . But he gave it over , and left the work unfinished , conceiving grief ( as a sorrowful Father ) that his only Son came to untimely death , and was downed in the Well thereof : The fame of this Town spreads it self far for repute , a● being reckoned the most beautiful place in all North-Wales : and it is of no less report , for the Castle adjunct unto it is impregnable for fortification . And this strange accident hapning there in the year 1575 , deserves not to be omit●ed , being left as a continual remembrance of Gods merciful Providence and preservation at that time : that where by reason of great Earthquakes , many People were put into great ●ear , and had much harm done unto them both within and without their Houses , in the Cities of ●ork , Worcester , Glocester , Bristo● , Hereford , and in other Countries adj●cent , yet in the Shire-Hall of Denbigh the Bell was caused to Toll twice , by the shaking of the earth , and no hurt or hindrance at all either done or received . The government of this Town is managed by two Aldermen , and two Bailiffs , who are yearly elected out of twenty five Burgesses , that are their assistants . It hath no Recorder , one Town-Clerk , and two Sergeants at Mace : and by observation of the Mathematicks , the Pole is elevated in the degree of Lati●ude 53 , and 49 s●ruples , and from she first point in Longitude 16 and 45. ( 8 ) This County with them of Flint and Carnarven-shires . are not divided by pricks into their several hundreds , according to the rest of this work , the want of their particulars in the Parliament Roles so causing it , which for the good of these three Shires , I earnestly sought to have supplied from the Nomina Villarum , in their Sheriffs Books , and had promise of them that might easily have procured the same . But whether a fearless jealousie possessed their spirits , lest the riches of these Shires , by revealing such particulars ▪ should be further sought into , I cannot say : yet this I have observed in all my Survey , that where least is to be had , the greatest fears are poss●ssed . Take these Shires therefore to be done as I could , and not as I would , that wish both the wealth of them all , and their esteem to be of better regard by those that may do them good . ( 6 ) This Shire then is divided into twelve Hundreds , for the readier ordering of businesses necessary to the State of the Country ; wherein are placed three Market-Towns , ●it for buying and selling , and other negotiations . It hath five Castles to defend her self , and to offend her enemies , and fifty seven Parishes for Gods Divine Service and Worship . FLINT-SHIRE . CHAPTER XII . FLINT-SHIRE , stretching out in length , broad at one end , and narrow at another , is not much unlike in fashion to a Wedge , a piece of which is cut off by the meeti●g of Cheshire and Denbighshire , South-East in distance some four miles . It borders East-ward with part of Cheshire , from whence it is guarded in length with the River Dee unto the North , which parteth Worrall and Flint-shire , till you come to a little Island called Hellebree . Northward it is bounded with the Virginian-Sea : on the West , a little River , called Cluyd , parteth her and Denbighshire asunder : and on the South altogether by Shrop-shire . ( 2 ) This Country is nothing mountainous , as other parts of Wales are , but rising gently all along the River Dee , makes a fair shew and prospect of her self to every eye that beholds her , as well upon the River , being in most places thereabouts four or five miles broad , as upon the other side thereof , being a part of Cheshire , ( 3 ) The Air is healthful and temperate , without any foggy clouds or fenny vapours , saving that sometimes there ariseth from the Sea , and the River Dee , certain thick and smoaky seeming Mis●● , which nevertheless are not found hurtful to the Inhabitants , who in this part live long and healthfully . ( 4 ) The Clime is somewhat colder there than in Cheshire , by reason of the Sea , and the River that engi●ts the better part of her ; by which , the Northern-winds , being long carried upon the Waters , blow the more cold ; and that side of the Country upward , that lieth shoring unto the top , having nei●her shelter nor defence , receiveth them in their still power , and is naturally a Bulwark from their violence unto her bordering Neighbours , that maketh the Snow to lie much longer there than on the other side of the River . ( 5 ) The Soil bringeth forth plenty both of Corn and Grass , as also great store of Cattel , but they be little . To supply which defect , they have more by much in their numbers than in other places where they be bigger . Great store of Fish they take in the River of Dee , but little from the Sea , by reason they have no Havens or Creeks for Boats. No great store of Woods either there or in any other part of Wales are found , it having been a general plague unto all the Country ever since the head-strong Rebellions of their Princes and great Men against the Kings of England , that ( in time ) took away the principal helps of their Innovations , by cutting down their Woods , whereof in this Shire there hath heretofore been great plenty . Fruits are scarce , but Milk , Butter and Cheese plenty , as also store of Honey , of the which they make a pleasant Wine , in colour like ( in taste not much unlike ) unto Muskadine , which they call Metheglin . Yea , and in the days of Giraldus Cambrensis , near the place now called Holy-Well , was a rich Mine of Silver , in seeking after which , men pierced and pried into the very bowels of the earth . ( 6 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Country were the Ordovices , a sturdy People against the Romans , but now most kind and gentle towards the English , and indeed make much of all Srangers , except they be crossed : and then they are the contrary . ( 7 ) Places of defence are the Castles of Flint , Hawarden , vulgarly Harden , Treer , Rudland , Mold , Yowley , and Hope : of which Flint and Harden are the two principal . The Castle of Flint , famous for the benefit it received from two Kings , and for the refuge and relief it gave unto the third . It was founded by Henry the Second , finished by Edward the First , and long after gave harbour and entertainment to that noble , but unfortunate Prince , Richard the Second , coming out of Ireland , being within her Walls a free and absolute King , but no sooner without , but taken Prisoner by Henry Bullingbroke , Duke of Lancaster , losing at that time his liberty , and not long after his life . This standeth in the graduation of Latitude 53 , 55 minutes , in Longitude 17. For the Castle of Hawarden , no Record remains of the first Founder , but that it was held a long time by the Stewards of the Earls of Chester . Howbeit their resistances did not so genearally consist in the strength of their Castles and Fortifications , as in their Mountains and Hills , which in times of danger served as natural Bulwarks and Defences unto them against the force of Enemies . As was that which standeth in a certain strait set about with Woods , near unto the River Alen , called Coles-hull , that is , Coles-hill , where the English , by reason of their disordered multitude , not ranged in good array , lost the Field , and were defeated , when King Henry the Second had made as great preparation as might be to give Battel unto the Welsh , and the very Kings Standard was forsaken by Henry of Essex , who was Standard-Bearer to the Kings of England in right of inheritance . ( 8 ) This Country hath many shallow Rivers in it , but none of fame and note , but d ee and Cluyde . Howbeit , there is a Spring not far from Rudland Castle , of great report and antiquity , which is termed Fons Sacer , in English , Holy-Well , and is also commonly called S. Winefrids-Well ; of whom antiquity thus reporteth : That Winefrid a Christian Virgin , very fair and vertuous , was doated upon by a young lustful Prince or Lord of the Country , who not long able to rule his head-strong affections , having many times in vain attempted and tried her chastity , both by rich gifts and large promises , could not by any means obtain his desires ; he therefore ( in a place of advantage ) suddenly surprised and ravished her weak ( yet resisting ) body . After the deed done , the cruel Tyrant , to stop her cries and acclamations , slew her , and cut off her head ; out of which place did suddenly arise a Spring that continueth to this day , carrying from the Fountain such a forcible stream and Current , as the like is not found in Christendom . Over the Head of the Spring there is built a Chappel of Free-stone , with Pillars curiously wrought and engraved , in the Chancel whereof , and Glass-Window , the Picture of the Virgin is drawn , together with the memorial of her Life and Death , To this Fountain Pilgrims are accustomed to repair in their zealous , but blind devotion ; and divers others resort to Bath in , holding firmly that the water is of much vertue . There be many red Stones in the bottom of this Well , and much green Moss growing upon the sides : the superstition of the People holding that those red spots in the Stones were drops of the Ladies Blood , which all the Water in the Spring can never wash away ; and that the Moss about the Wall was her Hair , which though some of it be given to every Stranger that comes , yet it never wasteth . But howsoever this be carried for truth by the Tradition of time , the Moss it self smells exceeding sweet . There is also hard by Kilken ( a small Village ) within this County , a little Well of no great note , that at certain times riseth and falleth , after the manner of Sea-tydes . ( 9 ) In the South-part of this Country , divided from the rest , is a place ( in some written Copies of Antonine , called Bovium ) which we now term Banchor , first a City , and afterwards a Monastery of famous memory , and the first that is read of in the World : wherein ( as Beda saith ) were a great number of Monks , and them divided into seven Companies , every one having his several Ruler assigned . None of these Companies had less than three hundred Persons devoted to Prayer , and to get living by their own labour , for themselves and the poor : although it hath long since been utterly ruinate , so as now there is scarce seen the face and outward shew of a dead City or Monastery . It hath only the names of two Gates remaining , one standing a mile di●tant from another , and betwixt which the River Dee now runneth , where are often-times found many pieces of Roman Coyn , and other tokens of antiquity . But of these shall be more mention made in the following History . Another like Monastery , but of lesser account , stood in the Vale beneath Varish ( a little City placed by the Romans in the consines of this Shire and Denbigh-shire ) and upon the Bank of Elwy and Cluyd . This the Britains call Llan-Elwy , of the River ; the Englishmen , Asaph , of the Founder ; and the Historiographers , Asaphensis . It is more famoused for antiquity , than for building or bravery : for about the year 560 Kentigern Bishop of Glasco , being fled hither out of Scotland , placed here a Bishops See , and erected a Monastery , gathering together 663. in a Religious Brotherhood , whereof 300 that were unlearned , gave themselves to husbandry , and to work within the Monastery ; the rest to Prayer and Meditations . When he returned into Scotland , he ordained Asaph , a godly and upright man , to be Governour over this Monastery , of whom it took the name , and is called Saint Asaphs . Another Monastery of great account was at Basingwarke in this County , near unto which began that admirable Ditch drawn thence into the Month of Severne by King Offa , the Tract whereof I have expressed thorow this Shire , and will further speak thereof in the following History . ( 10 ) This Shire is divided into five Hundreds , fortified with seven Castles , hath only one Market-Town , and twenty eight Parishes , in which there is a continual celebration of Divine Service . ANGLESEY and CARNARVAN map of Anglesey and Caernarvonshire ANGLESEY . CHAPTER XIII . ANGLESEY was in the time of the Romans called Mona , by the Britains Mon , and Ver-Mon , ( that is ) the Land of Mon , of the ancient England-Saxons Moneg : And at last , after the Englishmen had by their sharp and several assaults brought it under their rule , and became Lords thereof , it was termed Anglesey , as one would say , The Englishmens Island . ( 2 ) For an Island it is , albeit it be severed from the Continent of Britain , but with a small and narrow straight of the River Menai , and on all other parts beaten upon with the surging and troublous Irish Sea , in which it lyeth somewhat square-wise not much different in length and breadth ; being , where it reacheth out in length , from Beau-marish Eastward , to the utmost Promontory Westward , which we call Holy-head , twenty miles ; and in breadth from Llambederick Northward , to the point of Menai Southward , seventeen miles ; the whole circuit or circumference amounting towards seventy miles . ( 3 ) The Air is reasonable grateful and healthful , and not generally subject to Diseases , excepting certain Agues at sometimes , which are occasioned by the Fogs and misty Exhalations , which arise from the Sea called Mare Virginium , with the which this Isle is encompassed . ( 4 ) The Commodities that commend ( or rather beautifie ) this Country , are in Corn and Cattel , wherewith it not only enricheth it self exceedingly , but sendeth out great Provision thereof to others to supply their defects , and although the ground may seem dry and stony , or unpleasant and nothing sightly , wherein for the outward quality it resembleth some other parts of Wales , that are not so fruitful , yet for the inward bounties of nature , it is far unlike ; for above all the Coasts of Wales it is most plentiful of Wheat , insomuch as by Giraldus Cambre●sis report , they are wont to say in Welsh , by way of a Proverb , Mon Mam Cambry , which is to say , Mon is the Mother of Wales ; for that when other Countries Harvest fails round about , or their Provision is exhaust and drawn dry , this alone , like a provident and full breasted Mother is able to sustain the rest . Whereunto Nature most providently hath added another benefit serviceable and necessary to the former , in that the Country produceth also those kind of Stones which are called Molares , as of all other fittest to make Millstones or Grindstones . In some places also it yieldeth an Earth of Aluminous quality , out of which some not long since began to make Al●m and Copperose , who ( like unflesht Souldiers ) gave over their enterprise without further hope , because at first they saw it not answer their over-hasty expectations . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Country were the Ordovines , mentioned before in the precedent Provinces of Denbigh-shire , Flint-shire , and Carnarvon-shire . And this very Island was that ancient , and so much ennobled Seat of the British Dr●yds , who so amated the Army of Roman Invaders , as Tacitus reports , and as else-where we have related in the sixth Book and seventh Chapter of our ensuing History . ( 6 ) This Nation was attempted first by Paulinus Suetonius in the Reign of Nero , but brought under the Roman Empire by Iulius Agricola . When the Empire of the Romans in Britain began to decline and go downward , some out of Ireland entred into this Isle by stealth , and ●estled themselves there , as may be gathered by certain mounts of earth entrenched about , and yet to be seen , which they call the Irish-mens Cottages : as also by a place named of the Irish-men , y● Hiericy G●idid , who did there ( as is recorded ) put the Britains to flight under the leading of Sirigus . The Norwegians also were often infestuous to this Island ; but King Ethelreds Fleet , having in the year 1000 scoured the Seas round about this Isle , far exceeded all both Irish and Norwegian depopulations , for they was●ed the Country in all hostile manner . ( 7 ) After this , two Hughs , both Normans , did greatly afflict this Island : The one being Earl of Chester , the other of Shrewsbury ; at which very time Magnus the Norwegian arriving there , shot Hugh Earl of Shrewsbury through with an Arrow , and departed af●er he had ransacked the Island . It was afterwards grievousl● infested by the Englishmen , who never gave over from time to time to invade it , until in the Reign o● King Edward ●●e first , it was whol●y bro●ght under his subjection . ( 8 ) The principal Town in this Isle is Beaumarish , which the said King Edward the First built in the East-side thereof , and for the f●●r situation , th●u●h in a Moo●ish-place , gave it the name which it now beareth , whereas in times past it was called Bonover ; which ●e also fortified with a goodly Ca●tle . ( 9 ) The Mayor is the chiefest Magistrate of the Town , who is yearly chosen , and hath the assistance and help of two Bailiffs , two Sergeants at M●ce , and one Town-Clerk : by whose careful diligence the affairs of this Town are orderly managed and commanded : whose Latitude is 54 , and Longitude 15 , 45 minutes . ( 10 ) Not far from hence is Lhaanvais , in times past a fair Religious House of the Friers Minors , which although it be now in a manner rased out of memory , yet antiquity maketh mention that it hath been of great regard among the Kings of England , who h●ve sh●wed themselves very bountiful Patrons unto that Covent , both in respect of the sanctimonious life of such as conversed there , as also because there the Bodies of very eminent persons , as the Daughter of King Iohn , the Son of a King of the Danes , as likewise of many great Lords , Knights and Squires , were enterred , that were slain in the Wars again●t the Welsh , in the time of many illustrious Kings of England . ( 11 ) This Isle is reckoned to have had anciently many Villag●s in it , even to the number of three hundred threescore and three ; and the same even at this day is very well peopled . The division of this Isle for disposition of affairs that belong either to the state of the Crown , or to the condition of the Country , is into six Hundreds : in which are seated two Market-Towns , and seventy four Parish-Churches for Gods Divine Honour and Worship . CAERNARVON-SHIRE . CHAPTER . XIV . CAERNARVON-SHIRE , in Welsh , Sire Caer-ar-v●n , so called because it is just over against Anglesey , ( which the Britains call Mon ) and in composition was termed also Snowden-Forrest , before Wales was laid into Shires ; the North-side whereof and the West butteth upon the Irish-Sea , the South-side is inclosed with Merioneth , and the East with Denbigh shires , from which it is severed by the River Conwey . ( 2 ) The form thereof is much like a wedge , long and narrow towards the South and growing still wider towards the North : so that from Pev●nkel-point Southward , to Orms-head-point Northward , are forty miles , from the River Conwey Eastward , to the River Ll●noy Westward , miles twenty : and the whole circumference one hundred and ten miles . ( 3 ) The Air is sharp and piercing , by reason that the Country hath not natural Provision to ensconce her self against the extremity of Winds and Weather : but especially , as may be thought , through the continuance of the Snow on the Hills , which also exclude the Suns aspect and warmth . ( 4 ) The Soil cannot be much commended for the fertility , except those parts of the Sea-coasts , which lie on the West towards Ireland : but for the heart of this Shire , it is altogether mountainous , as if nature had a purpose here , by rearing up these craggy Hills so thick together , strongly to compact the joynts of this our Island , and to frame the Inland part thereof for a fit place of refuge to the Britains , against those times of adversity which afterward did fall upon them ; for no Army , though never so strongly , or scarce any Travellers , though never so lightly appointed , can find passage among those so many rough and hard Rocks , so many Vales and Pools here and there , crossing all the ways , as ready obstacles to repel any Inroads of forrain assailants . These Mountains may not unfitly be termed the British Alps , as being the most vast of all Britain , and for their steepness and cragginess not unlike to those of Italy , all of them towring up into the Air , and round encompassing one far higher than all the rest , peculiarly called Snowdon Hills , though the other likewise in the sa●●e sense , are by the Welsh termed Craig Eriry , as much as Snowy Mountains , taking their name as doth ( by Plinies testimony ) Niphates in Armenia , and Imaus in Scythia : For all the year long these lie mantelled over with Snow hard crusted together , though otherwise for their height they are open and liable both to the Sun to dissolve them , and the Winds to over-sweep them . ( 5 ) The ancient Inhabitants of this Country were the O●●ovices , of whom we have sufficiently spoken in the description of the former Provinces ; neither need I insist either upon the pleasures or profits that this Country yieldeth , by reason of the great affinity it hath both of Climate and Commodities with Denbigh-shire and Flint-shire before mentioned : But this beyond the other in some places breeds certain Shel-fishes , which being conceived by an heavenly dew , bring forth Pearls , in ancient times more reckoned of than now they are . ( 6 ) Touching places of note , that City is very ancient which the Emperour Antonine call●●h Segontium , taking name of a River running by , which at this day is called S●●ent : some Reliques of the Walls whereof do yet appear , neer unto a little Church consecrated to the honour of Saint Publicius . This City Ninius calleth Caer Custenith , which some interpret the City of Constantine . Indeed Matthew Westminster saith ( how true I know not ) that Anno 1283. here was found the body of Constantius ( Father to Great Constantine ) which King Edward th● first caused to be sumptuously bestowed in the Church of the new City , which he raised out of the ruins of the old , and is now called Caernarvon , which giveth name to this whole Shire . The Town it self yieldeth a most excellent prospect towards the Sea , and is incompassed ( in a manner ) round with the Walls of the Castle : so as we may say , it is a City within a Castle , which taketh up the whole West-side of it : and great pity it is , that so famous a work should not be perpetuous , or ever become the ruin of time , which is much feared , for the merciless underminings of the Sea , that with her daily and forcible irruptions never ceaseth to wash away the Foundations of the Key . The People of this Town are well approved for courtesie , and also Civil Government , which is administred by the Constable of the Castle ( who is ever Mayor by Patent ) having the assistance of one Alderman , two Bailiffs , two Sergeants at Mace , and one Town-Cle●k . The Townsmen do not a little glory that King Edward the Second was born there , in a Tower of the Castle called Eagle-Tower , and surnamed of Caer-nar-von , he being the first Prince of Wales of the English Line . The site of this Town according to Mathematical observation is in the degree of Longitude 15 and 50 scruples from the first West point , and the Pole elevated in Latitude 53 and 50. Bangor the Bishops See , though it be now but a small Town , yet it was in time past so large , that for the greatness thereof it was called Banchor-Vaur , that is , Great-Banchor ; which Hugh Earl of Chester fortified with a Castle : But it hath been long since utterly ruinated and laid level with the ground , insomuch as there is not any footing to be found or o●her monuments left thereof , although they have been sought with all diligent enquiry . This Bishops See hath been the Diocess of ninety six Parishes . But the ancient Church which was consecrated unto Daniel , sometime Bishop thereof , was defaced and set on fire by that notorious Rebel Owen Glendowerdwy , who had a purpose also to destroy all the Cities of Wales , for that they stood for the King of England . And though the same Church was since repaired about the time of King Henry the seventh , yet hath it scarce recovered the resemblance of her former dignity . The River Conwey ( which limiteth this Shire on the East-side ) is in Ptolomy by corruption or ignorance of Transcribers called Toissonius , instead of Cononius , whence Canonium ( a Town mentioned by Antonine ) took name : and albeit both it and its name be now utterly extinct , yet is there a covert remembrance thereof in the new name of a poor Village , standing among the rubbish thereof , called Caer-hean , ( that is ) the ancient City : Out of the Spoil whereof King Edward the first , built a new Town at the Rivers mouth , termed thereupon Aber-Conwey : ( that is ) the mouth of Conwey , which being formerly fortified by Hugh of Chester , and strongly situate and senced both with Walls and a fair Castle by the Rivers side , deserves rather the name of a City than a Town , if it were more populous and traffiqued with Inhabitants . Neither must I here forget Nowin , though but a small Market-Town , for that it pleased the English Nobles , Anno 1284 , to honour it and the memory of King Arthur , with triumphant celebrity , after they had subdued the rebellious Ringleaders of Wales . ( 7 ) Other matters of memorable note this Country affordeth not much , unless perhaps this : That just over-against the River Conwey , where it issueth into the Sea , there sometimes stood an ancient City named Diganwey , which many years ago was consumed by Lightning , and so made utterly desolate , as many other Monuments have been , of ancient and worthy memory . As likewise that in the Pool Lin-Peris , there is a kind of Fish called there T●rcoth , having a red Belly , no where else seen . For touching these two other miracles famoused by Gira●dus and Gervasius , that on those his high Hills there are two Pools called the Mears , the one of which produceth great store of Fish , but all having only one Eye , and the other there is a moveable Island , which as soon as a man treadeth thereon , it forthwith floateth a great way off , whereby the Welsh are said to have often scaped and deluded their Enemies assailing them : these matters are out of my Creed , and yet I think the Reader had rather believe them , than to go to see whether it be so or no. It is traded with five Market-Towns fit for bargaining , buying and selling , fortified with four Castles , and hath sixty eight Parish-Churches in it , where the Inhabitants concur and meet together for the celebration of Divine-Service . THE KINGDOME OF SCOTLAND map of Scotland SCOTLANDS General Description . CHAPTER . I. SCOTLAND , the second Kingdom of Great-Britain , and the North part of the Island , hath on the East the German-Ocean ; on the North , the Orkneys , and Deucalidon-Sea ; the West affronted with Ireland ; and the South hath the River Tweed , the Cheviot-Hills , and the adjacent Tract , reaching to the Sulway-Sands , whereby it is separated from England . ( 2 ) This Kingdom is fair and spacious , and from these South borders spreadeth it self wide into the East and West , till again it contracts it self , narrower unto the Northern Promontories : furnished with all things befitting a famous Kingdom ; both for Air and Soil , Rivers , Woods , Mountains , Fish , Fowl , and Cattel , and Corn so plenteous , that it supplyeth therewith other Countries in their want . The People thereof are of good feature , strong of body , and of couragious mind , and in Wars so venturous , that scarce any service of note hath been performed , but that they were with the first and last in the Field . Their Nobility and Gentry are very studious of learning , and all civil knowledge ; for which end they not only frequent the three Universities of their own Kingdom ( S. Andrews , Glasco , and Edo●borough , the Nurseries of Piety , and Mansions of the sacred Muses ) but also much addict themselves to travel into forain Countries . The South ꝑ t of Scotlād wherin are contayned Edinbrough St. Andrew and Glasco Archbisho● map of southern Scotland ( 4 ) Yet , in the mean while , lest I should seem too defective in my intendments , let me without offence , in this third , though short Book ) give only a general view of that Kingdom , upon observations from others ; which to accomplish by mine own survey ( if others should hap to fail , and my crazy-aged body will give leave ) is my chief desire ; knowing the Island furnished with many worthy remembrances , appertaining both unto them and us , whom God now hath set under one Crown : and the rather , for that their more Southern People are from the same Original with us the English , being both alike the Saxo● branches : as also , that the Picts anciently inhabiting part of that Kingdom , were the inborn Britains , and such as thither fled to avoid the Romans servitude : whose names began first to be distinguished under Dioclesian the Emperor , when they were termed Picts for painting their Bodies , like the Britains , as saith Flavius Vigetius : which is more strengthned , for that the Northern Britains converted by Saint Columb , are called Britain-Picts . ( 5 ) But the Highland-men ( the natural Scot indeed ) are supposed to descend from the Scythians , who with the Getes infesting Ireland , left both their issue there , and their manners , apparent in the Wild-Irish even to this day : And from Scytha ( as is thought ) the name of Scot grew ; for so the Netherlanders by Scutten express indifferently the Scythian or Scot : so Gildas called the Irish-Britains , Scythians : so King Elfred in translating the History of Orosius , turneth Scotos into Scyttan : and so saith Walsingham , from one and the same original , Scythae , Scytici ; Scota , Scotici , take their names , as from Geta , Getici ; Gothi , Gothici have done . The Southren parte of Scotland wherin is y e strange Lake Lomund Petrus Kaerius caelavit map of southern Scotland with Loch Lomond ( 6 ) Their Manners were alike , saith Diodorus Siculus , and Strabo , and their Garments not much different , as by Sidonius Apollinaris may be gathered , where he seemeth rather to describe the modern Wild-Irish , than the antike Gete . Notwithstanding this Nations Original by some hath been derived from Scota , the supposed Daughter of the Egyptian King Pharaoh , that nourished Moses , afterwards married unto Gaithelus , the Son of Cecrops , ( Founder of Athens ) who first seating in Spain , passed thence into Ireland , and lastly into Scotland , where his Wife Scota gave Name to the Nation ; if we believe that they hit the mark , who shoot at the Moon . ( 7 ) But that the Scythians came into Spain , ( besides the Promontory bearing their name Scythicum ) Silius Italicus , a Spaniard born , doth shew , who bringeth the Concani , a Nation therein seated , from the Massagetae , which were the Scythians ; and the Sarmatae whom all confess to have been Scythians , were the builders ( as he saith ) of the City Susanna in Spain . And how from Spain they possessed themselves of Ireland , ( at the time when the Kingdom of Iudah flourished ) Ninius the Disciple of Elvodugus doth tell , and their own Histories of Nemethus and Delas , besides Cisnerus and others , do shew ; who were first known by the name of Scots , as is gathered out of Porphyry ( alledged by S. Ierome ) in the Reign of Aurelianus the Emperour . Gildas calleth them the Irish-Spoilers : Giraldus , A Scottish Nation descended from Ireland : which in regard of them , by Eginhardus , is termed , The Isle of Scots : by Beda , The Isle inhabited by the Scots ; and by other Historians , Scotland the great ; as their seat in Britain was called Scotland the less . The Eastern part of Scotland wherin ther are diuers Shires and the Vniversity of Aberdyn Petrus Kaerius caelavit map of eastern Scotland ( 9 ) Scotlands South-part in Galloway , washed with the water of Solway-Bay , toucheth degree 56 of Latitude , and thence imbosoming many Loughs and Inlets upon the East and West , extendeth it self unto the degree 60 , and 30 minutes : whose Logitude is likewise laid betwixt the degree 13 and 19 , and the same grown very narrow , being so near the North-Pole , as lying directly under the hinder-most Stars of the Greater Bear. ( 10 ) The which Kingdom is divided into two parts by the great River Tay ; the South whereof is the more populous , and more beautified in manners , riches , and civility : the North more rude ; retaining the customs of the Wild-Irish , the ancient Scot , in whose several Territories these Counties ensuing are contained . South . Teifidale , Merch , Laudier , Liddesdale , Eskedale , Anuandale , Niddesdale , Galloway , Carricke , Kyle , Cunningham , Arrar , Cluidesdale , Lennox , Stirling , Fife , Stratberne , Menteith , Argile , Cantire , Lorne , North. Loquabrea , Braidalhin , Perth , Athol , Anguis , Merns , Mar , Buquhan , Murrey , Rosse , Sutherland , Cathanes , Strathnavern . Part of Scotland it is called of the înhabitance Stranauerne with his borderers Petrus Karius caelavit 1599. map of part of Scotland ( 11 ) And these again are subdivided into Sheriffdomes . Stewardships , and Bailiwicks , for the most part Inheritory unto honourable Families . The Ecclesiastical Government is also subject under two Metropolitan Arch-Bishops , which are of S. Andrews , ( the Primate of Scotland ) and of Glasco ; whose Iurisdictions are as followeth : S. Andrews . Dunkeld , Aberdon , Murray , Dunblan , Brechin , Ross , Cathenes , Orkney . Glasco . Galloway , Argile , Iles. Amongst the things worthy of Note of Antiquity in this Kingdom , most memorable was that Fortification drawn from Abercorne upon the Frith of Edenboroug● , unto Alcluyd , now Dunbritton , opening upon the West-Sea , where Iulius Agricola set the limit of the Roman Empire ; past which , saith Tacitus , there was no other bounds of Britain to be sought for : and that here the second Legion Augusta , and the 20 Legion Victrix , built a part of the Wall , certain Inscriptions there digged up , and reserved at Dunloyr and Cader do witness : as also an ancient coped Monument of an high and round compass , which as some think , was a Temple consecrated unto the God Terminus ; others , a Trophy raised by Carausius , who fortified this Wall with seven Castles , as Ninius doth declare . The Iles of Hebrides w th ther borderers Petrus Kaerius caelavit . map of the Hebrides ( 13 ) Ninian a Britain is recorded to have converted the South-Picts unto the Faith of Christ in the Reign of Theodosius the you●ger , and the Church in Galloway bearing his name doth witness it : so likewise in the same age Palladius sent from Pope Celestine , became an Apostle unto the Scots , whose Reliques lay enshrined at Fordon in Mernis , as was verily supposed : but that Christianity had been formerly planted in this uttermost Province , is testified by Tertullian , in saying the Britains had embraced the Faith further than the Romans had power to follow or persecute them , whereupon Peter Monk of Clun in Spain , concludeth their conversion to be more ancient than the Southern Britains . ( 14 ) But touching things observable for the present , surely admirable is the report of the plenty of Cattel , Fish , and Fowl there abiding : their Neat but little , yet many in number : Fish so plentiful , that men in some places ( for delight ) on Horse-back hunt Salmons with Spears : and a certain Fowl , which some call Soland-Geese , spreading so thick in the Air , that they even darken the Suns light ; of whose Flesh , Feathers , and Oyl , the Inhabitants in some parts make great use and gain ; yea , and even of Fishes brought by them , abundant Provision for Diet , as also of the Sticks ( brought to make their Nests ) plentiful provision for Fuel . CATHANES and ORKNAY INS Petrus Kaerius caela . ( 16 ) No less strange than any the fore-mentioned waters , but more lamentable is the remembrance of the great inundation , hapning , by the sudden rising of Tay , which bare away the Walls and Town of Berth , and with it the Cradle and young Son of King William into the Sea , wherein the Royal Infant with many others perished , the King and his Courtiers hardly escaping the danger with life . The ruine of this Town raised another more famous , and more commodiously seated , even Berth , since called Saint Iohns-Town . ( 17 ) Islands and Ilets yielding both beauty and subjection to this Scottish-Kingdom , are the Western , the Orkneys and the Shetlands , reckoned to be above three hundred in number ; the Inhabitants for the most part using the frugality of the ancient Scot. ( 18 ) The Western lying scattered in the Deucalidonian Sea , were anciently ruled by a King of their own , whose maintenance was out of their common Coffers , and the Regal Authority never continued in lineal succession , for ( to prevent that ) their Kings were not permitted to have Wives of their own , but might by their Laws accompany with other mens : as the like Law was in the other parts of Scotland , that the Virginity of all new Wives , should be the Landlords prey , till King Malcolme enacted , that half a mark should be paid for redemption . The residence of those fore-mentioned Kings , was chiefly in Ila , Bunals , and Iona , now Columbkill , where ( as Donald Munro , who travelled through these Islands , reporteth ) are three Tombs , having the several Inscriptions of the Kings of Scotland , of Ireland and of Norway . ( 19 ) Among these Western Islands , the Hebrides , Skie , Mula , Ila , and Arran , are the greatest : All of them plentiful of Corn , Woods , Salmons and Herrings , as others of Conies , Deer , Horses , and Sheep , where in some they are wild , and in others without any owners ; but the People uncivil , and lacking Religion , they rather live rudely in state of necessity , than as Lords of these portions which God hath allotted them ; and with a sufferable ease , ignorant of ambition , enjoy those contentments , which some others ( though they no great sum ) do more laboriously attain unto by the Precepts of Philosophy : for feeding themselves with competency without any excess , they return all the over-plus unto their Lords , as do the Inhabitants of Hirta and Rona : but alas , Religion not known among them , these penurious vertues are rather the curses of Cham , than the followings of Christ , who forbids us to be too careful for the morrow . ( 20 ) The ●sles of Orkenay upon the North of Scotland , lying in a most raging and tempes●uous Sea , are about three and thirty in number , whereof thirteen are inhabited , and the other replenished with Cattel : in these are no venomous Serpents , nor other ugly vermin ; the Air sharp and healthful , and the Soil apt to bear only Oats and Barley , but not a stick of Wood , : among these , Pomonia is the greatest , accounted and called the Main-Land , affording six Minerals of lead and Tin , and in her chief Town , a Bishops See : wherein are seated twelve Parish Churches , one of them very magnificent for so remote a Country . ( 21 ) Of all the Romans , Iulius Agricola first discovered the Orkenays ; yea , and subdued them , if we will believe Tacitus : but Pomponius Mela , that wrote thirty years before him , doth mention them , and Iuvenal in Hadrians time after him , tells us the Romans had won them ; and lastly , Claudian nameth Saxons that were slain in them , and so doth Ninius name Octha and Ebissus , Saxou Commanders , who in their roving Pinnaces wasted the Orknays . These Islands Donald Bane the Usurper of the Scottish Crown , gave the King of Norway for his assistance , and by the Norwegians were they held the space of an hundred and sixty years , until that Alexander the third King of Scotland , with Sword and Composition got them from Magnus the Fourth , King of Norway , which afterward King Haquin confirmed unto King Robert Bruce : but lastly , Christian the First , King of Norway and Denmark , utterly renounced all his right to those Islands , when he gave his Daughter in Marriage unto King Iames the Third , which deed was further ratified by the Pope , who openeth the way to the possession of Kingdoms with his own Key . ( 22 ) More North , and further than this Chart could well express , lie the Isles of Shetland , of some thought to be Thule , and by the Commenter upon Horace , the Fortunate Island , where , as Tze●zes fabuleth , the Souls of good Men are ferryed into those Elizian Fields that ever grow green , and whence Iulius Caesar could hardly be drawn , as Muretus had written : but their Fictions intended only that the vertuous Souls of the dead passed the uttermost bounds of earthly abode , and attained to an ever-pleasing repose , and ever-flourishing happiness ; which whether they borrowed from the description of Paradise , ( taken both for a fair Garden and the Souls happy rest ) I cannot define ; but sure they would not have made those Fields always green , if they had seen how they lie ever covered with Ice and Snow , being in the 63 degree of Latitude , as Ptolomy hath placed it , where ( for the most part ) is a continual Winter : but for proof that this was the Thule , besides Ptolomies Positure , Saxo Grammaticus betwixt Norway and Scotland hath placed it ; and Solinus , two daies sailing from the point of Caledonia ; and Tacitus saith , that the Romans kenned Thule afar off , as they sailed about Britain by the Orcades : and lastly , Mela maketh it to face Berge a City in Norway . THE KINGDOME OF IRLAND map of Ireland IRELAND Described . CHAPTER I. THe Traditions of time have delivered unto us divers names , whereby this famous Island is recorded to have been called : yet none of more fair probabili●y , than that of Ortheus , Aristotle and Claudian , by whom it is named Ierna : by Iuvenal and Mela called Iuverna , by Diodorus Siculus , Iris : by Martian of Heraclea , Ioyepnia : by Eustachius , Oyernia and Bernia : by the native Inhabitants , Erin : by the Britains Yverdon : the Welsh . Bards in their Ballads , Tirvolas , Totidanan and Banno : and by the Eng●ish , Ireland , But from whence these diversities were derived , arise many opinions . Doubtless it is , that Hibernia , Iuverna , and Overnia , came from Ierna , spoken of by Orpheus and Aristotle ; and the same Ierna , as al●o Iris , Iverdhon , and Ireland , from Erin , the term that the Inhabitants now us● . From this Erin therefore ( a word proper to the Nation ) the original is most likely to be deduced . ( 2 ) Some derive Hibernia from Hiberno tempore , that is , from the Winter season ; some from Hiberus a Spaniard ; some from a Duke named Irnalph ; some again from the ancient River Iberus , and some from Hiere , an Irish word , which signifieth the West , or a Western ▪ Coast , whence Erin may also seem to fetch●he derivation : for it lieth furthest Westward of any Region in ail Europe . As also for that the River running in the most remo●e West-part of this Island , is in P●olomy called Iernus ; like as the furthest Western Promontory in Spain , from whence our Irish-Men came , is by Strabo called Ierne , and the River next unto it , by Mela , Ierna : yea , and Spain it self , for the Western situation , is called Hesperia : the West-Cape of Africk ▪ Hesperium ; and in Germany , Westrich and Westphalen from their position have their names . Postelius ( a man that rather followed his own fancy , than the judgement of others ( fetcheth the original of Ireland from the Hebrews , as if I●in should be as much as Iurin , that is the Iews land : which opinion I hold no better than those that would have it from the Winter-like storms , although upon every Wind the Air is cold there . ( 3 ) Festus Avienus , in that little Book which he entituled Orae Maritimae , calleth Ireland , Sacram Insulam , that is , The holy Island : to which opinion the people are soon drawn , by reason of the many Saints that the Island is said to produce , and the blessed Soil that affords no venomous Creatures to retain Life . It is thought that Plutarch meant Ireland by his Ogygia , for her great antiquity ; and of latter times by Isidore and Bede it was called Scotia , of those Scots that inhabited it : and that thence the name of Scotland , together with the Scots themselves , came into Britain . ( 4 ) For largeness and circuit , in times past , this Island challenged the third place in rank of all the Isles of the then known World for thus have Geographers left us , that the Indian Taproban for greatness was the first , the Isle of Britain the next , and this of Ireland the third : and for that cause doth Ptolomy call it the Little-Britain . But howsoever Strabo hath extended the breadth , as broad as the length , and others have formed it in shape like an Egg , yet later dimensions have found it far otherwise , twice longer than broad , and may be compared to the fore-leg of a Bear , if the Si●ile breed no offence . Whose East-side hath on it that tempes●uous Sea that cutteth her Channel betwixt England and this Ireland : the West is washed with the Western-Ocean ; the North with the D●ucaledonian , and the South with the Virginian-Sea . ( 5 ) The Air of this Island is delectable and wholsom , though neither so clear nor subtil as is ours of England , which ( as Mela saith ) is nothing favourable for the ripening of Corn : but so grateful to the ground , that it causeth grass to grow abundantly , not only fresh and long , but withal very sweet for all Cattel , and in Winter is more subject to Wind than Snow : and that I may use the words of Giraldus , It is of all Countri●s most temperate , neither forcing the I●habitants to seek shade from the frying heat of Cancer , nor the chilling cold of Capricorn to drive t●em to the fire : but at all seasons most mild , betwixt a sufferable cold , and gentle warm heat . ( 6 ) The Soil ( saith Cambrensis ) is uneven , woody , wild , waterish , and boggy , so full of Loughs and Mears , that great Ponds of Water are found upon the high Mountains . These indeed make the places somewhat dangerous unto all new Commers , by breeding of Rheums , Dysenteries and Fluxes , whose usual remedy is Vskebah , a wholsome Aqua vitae , that drieth more , and enflameth less , than many other hot Confections . ( 7 ) The Commodities of this Kingdom chiefly consist in Cattel , whose seed is so sweet and so rank , that they will soon graze to a surfeit , if they may be suffered to feed as they will. Their Sheep are many , but bear not the best Wooll , which twice are shorn within one year . Of these they make Mantles , Caddowes , and Coverlets , vented from thence into forrain Countries . Their Hobbies likewise are of great esteem , and are answerable to the Ienners of Spain . Bees are there in such abundance , that honey is found in holes of Trees , and in rests of the Rocks . No annoyance of hurtful Snake or venomous Creatures : and to speak all in a word , nothing wanting for profit or pleasure : for so much doth Giraldus affirm , in saying , that Nature had cast into this Western Kingdom of Zephyrus a m●re gracious eye ●han was ordinary . ( 3 ) Touching the original peopling of this fair Island , if we will believe their Records , they make antiquity it self but young unto themselves , affirming the Da●sel Caesarea , and Ni●ce unto Noah , to have found it out before the Flood ; and that three hundred years after , when Iaphets posterity took into these Wests-parts of the World , one Bartholarus of his Progeny , a Scythian by birth , encouraged by the late success of Nimrod ( who now had intruded upon the Monarchy of Syria ) wandred so far West , that Fortune at last cast him and his people upon the coast of Ireland . There he setled with his three sons , Languinna , Salanus , and Ruthurgus , who searching through every creek and corner of the Land , left their own names by three notable places , Languini , Stragrus , and Mount Salanga , which the revolution of times hath since called by other names , as S. Dominickhill , Ruthurgi , and Stagnum . Under the government of these three sons , and their off-spring , this Land was kept about three hundred years ; at which time there arrived also in Ireland , a Giant-like kind of People of Nimrods race , who in bodily shape exceeded the proportion of usual men , using their strengths to win soveraignties , and to oppress with rapine and violence . These growing to numbers , accounted it necessary to prevent dominion , lest the curse of slavery ( prophecied by Noah ) should light upon them : to prevent the which , they set up a King of their own ; then quarrels bred daily , either parties purposing to hold their interest by their Swords ; against whom , lastly a Battel was fought , and an infinite company of Giants slain ; when also died most of those of the posterity of Iapheth , leaving them of Cham Lords of the Island . ( 9 ) Whereupon Nemethus a Scythian with his four Sons , arrived in Ireland , and by strong hand seated themselves among these Giants ; where for two hundred and sixty years they kept , but then no longer able to hold out against them , they left their ●tandings , and departed the Land. ( 10 ) Soon after , the five Sons of Dela , descended from the said Nemetheus , came into these coasts , and with manly prowess drove these miscreants out of Ireland , whereby the Seed of Cham was utterly expelled , and these of Iapheth divided the Land into five parts , whereof they became themselves Kings : but falling at variance , gave advantage unto others , among whom the BRITAINS set in a foot . ( 11 ) But to make this Island more famous , certain Historians have fetched their Kings from most uncertain Records , as namely from Gaothel the Grecian , and Scotia , ( the daughter of King Pharaoh , and nourisher of Moses ) his Wife : who at that time , when Israel were in Egypt , with a Colony came into Spain , and after into Ireland , where he was made King , and in honour of his Queen , the Land named Scotia , from whom also the Inhabitants took name : his posterity increasing in the parts of Spain , where first they had seated , in process of time sought further adventures under the four Sons of Milesius King of Spain , whose names were Hibernus , Hermion , Euer , and Erimon . ( 12 ) These , by the direction , sufferance and assistance of Gurguntius , King of the Britains , after that Ireland had been very much dispeopled by a contagious pestilence , seated themselves , and from the eldest , Hibernus , called the Island Hibernia , as some are of opinion : these divided the whole into five Provinces , famously known by the names of Mounster , Leinster , Connaught , Vlster , and Meath in their midst : and from these the present Irish repute themselves to come . Yet surely , as I make no question , but that this Island became inhabited even of old time , when mankind again over-spread the face of the earth , so doubt I not , but that our Britains passed thereinto themselves , such infinite number of words in the Irish language yet in use , such ancient names of Waters , Isles , Mountains , and Places , meerly British words , yet remaining , and the testimony of Tacitus , who saith , that their manners were fashioned to the Britains , inforceth so much ; and Ptolomy before him , calleth that Island by the name of Little-Britain : all which shew a former interest for Ireland , than that which by conquest under Henry the second was made . ( 13 ) That it ever was subject to the Romans , is doubtful , though Agricola did wish it , and Tacitus held most necessary : yea , and in the division of their Empire , Ireland , with Britain and Thule , fell unto Constantine the Son of Constantine the Great ; yet their Manners unreclaimed , and barbarism retained long after those days , do witness no such civility sown , to be in that plot . But when Romes great Empire began to grow less , the Scots or Scythians grew mighty in Ireland ▪ and as Orosius writeth , that Island was wholly inhabited by the Scottish Nation in the days of Honorius , and Arcadius , the Emperours : whose Wars and Slaughter , Claudian doth lightly touch in this his Verse . Scotorum tumulos flevit glacialis Ierne . The frozen Ireland wept to see , her Scots all slain on heaps to be . ( 14 ) As these for the most part , by the testimony of Ninius , were the ancient Inhabitants , so by other ancient Writers , their customs and manners are thus set forth : Strabo saith , The Inhabitants of Ireland are more rude than the Britains ▪ they feed upon the flesh of men , yea , and think it a point of worth to eat their dead Parents : wa●tonly they accompany with women , making no difference of other mens wives , their own sisters , nor of their natural mothers : but of these things ( saith he ) we have no certain witness of sufficient credit . Po●ponius Mela recordeth , That the Irish are uncivil , ignorant of vertues , and void of Religion . And Solinus affirmeth , That after victory they drink the blood of the slain , and besmear their own faces therewith , so given to war , that the mother at the birth of a man-child , feedeth the first meat into her Infants mouth , upon the point of her husbands sword , and with heathenish imprecations , wisheth that it may die no otherwise than in war or by sword . ( 15 ) But from these ancient and barbarous manners , let us come to the conditions of their middle time ; whom Giraldus Cambrensis describeth as followeth : The Irish ( saith he ) are a strong and bold people , martial and prodigal in War , nimble , stout , and haughty of heart ; careless of life , but greedy of glory ; courteous to stranger , constant in love , light of belief , impatient of injury , given to fleshly lusts , and in e●mity implacable . At the baptizing of their Infants , their manner was , not to dip their right arms into the water , that so ( as they thought ) they might give a more deep and incurable blow ; never calling them by the names of their Parents whilst they lived together , but at their death took it upon them . Their women nursed not the children they bare ; and they that nursed others , did affect and love them much more than their own . ( 16 ) So much were they given to fantastical conceits , that they held it very ominous to give their neighbours fire upon May-day : to eat an old Egg , endangered the death of their Horse : and before they cast in their Seed , they send Salt into the Field : to hang up the Shells in the Roof , was a preservative of the Chickens from the Kite : to set up green Boughs at their Doors in the Moneth of May , increased their Kines Milk ; and to spit upon Cattel , they held it good against Witchery , whereof Ireland was full . ( 17 ) Superstitious Idolatry among the wilde Irish was common , yielding divine honour unto the Moon after the change , unto whom they both bowed their knees and made supplications ; and with a loud voice would thus speak unto that Planet : We pray thee leave us in as good estate as thou foundst us . Wolves they did make their Godsibs , terming them Chari Christ , and so thought themselves preserved from their hurts : the hoofs of dead Horses they accounted and held sacred : about childrens necks they hung the beginning of Saint Iohns Gospel , a crooked nail of an horse-shoe , or a piece of a Wolves Skin : and both the sucking-child and nurse were girt with Girdles finely plated of womans hair ; so far they wandred into the ways of errour , in making these arms the strength of their healths . ( 18 ) Their Wives were many , by reason of divorcements , and their Maids married at twelve years of age , whose customs were to send to their Lovers Bracelets pleated , and curiously wrought of their own Hair , so far following Venus in the Knots of these Allurements . The Men wore Linnen Shirts exceedingly large , stained with Saffron , the Sleeves wide , and hanging to their Knees , strait and sh●rt Trusses plated thick in the Skirts , their Breeches close to the Thighs , a short Skein hanging point down before , and a Mantle most times cast over their Heads . The Women wore their Hair plated in curious manner , hanging down their Backs and Shoulders , from under foulden Wreaths of ●●ne Linnen , rolled about their Heads , rather loading the Wearer than delighting the Beholder : for as the one was most seemly , so the other was unsightly : their Necks were hung with Chains and Carkanets , their Arms wreathed with many Bracelets , and over their Side-garments the Shag-Rug Mantlets purfled with a deep Fringe of divers colours , both Sexes accounting Idleness their only Liberty , and Ease their greatest Riches . ( 19 ) In Wars they were forward , and fought with Battle-Axes , whose Bearers were called G●lloglasses , the Common-Souldier but lightly armed , who served with Darts and sharp Skeins ; their Trumpet was a Bag-pipe , and Word for Encounter , Pharroh ; which at the first Onset with great Acclamation they uttered , and he that did not , was taken into the Air , and carried into the Vale of Kerry , where transformed ( as they did believe ) he remaineth until he was hunted with Hounds from thence to his home . ( 20 ) For the Dying and Dead they hired Women to mourn , who expostulated with the Sick , why he would die : and dead , at his Funerals such out-cries were made , such clapping of hands , such howlings and gestures , that one would think their sorrows unrecoverable , holding the opinion of Pythag●ras for the Souls departed . ( 21 ) Their Diet in necess●●y was slender , feeding upon Water-Cresses , Roots , Mushromes , Shamrogh , Butter tempered with Oat-meal , Milk , Whey , yea , and Raw - 〈◊〉 , the Blood being crushed out ▪ their use was also to let their K●ne blood , which standing a while , and coming to a jelly , with Butter they did eat , as a very good Dish . ( 22 ) That the Gospel of Christ should be preached in Ireland by Iames the Apostle , I will not affirm , though Vicentius hath said it : neither will I , with the Scots , bring the Islands conversion from a Christian woman , who ( as their Historians do avouch ) first instructed the Queen , and the Queen her Husband , and he again his Subjects , till all became ●hristians . But most true it is , that the Scots first received the doctrine of Christ in this Kingdom of Ireland ; for thus writeth Prosper : Caeles●●n Pope of Rome sent his Archdeacon Palladius into Britain to withstand the Pelagian heresie , who at one time did drive out these enemies of grace ▪ and ordained a Bishop among the Scots , whereby that barbarou● Nation embraced Christianity . Yet ●inius reporteth , That Palladius did nothing in neither being taken away by untimely death : but that S. Patrick , born at Eiburne in Cluedsdale , the Son of Calphurus , by the Sister of S. Martin , was the first Apostle for Ireland , who sowed his heavenly seed with such plentiful increase , that the soil it self shortly was called Sanctorum Patria , The Country of Saints : for whose Sepulchre after his dea●h rose as great variance , as was for Homer amongst them of Greece : they of Downe challenged his Grave to be with them , upon certain Verses written on a To●b , which ascribes Patrick , Bridget , and Columbe to be bu●ied therein : they of Armagh lay claim by the warrant of S. Bernard , who saith , that Patrick in his time there ruled , and after death there rested . Glascenbury in England by ancient Records will have his body interred with them ; and Scotland avo●cheth his birth to be at Glasco , and bones to rest at Kirk Patrick with them : of such reverent esteem was this Irish Apostle . ( 23 ) This Patrick in his youth had been taken captive by the Irish Pirats , and for six years continuance served Machuain as his slave , and keeper of his Swine : in which dejected condition , so desirous he was of the Lands Salvation , that in his Dreams he thought the Infants unborn cryed unto him for Baptism ; and redeeming himself thence for a piece of Gold found in the Feld , which a Swine had turned up , in his aged years came back again into Ireland , preached the Gospel converted the People , and lastly became Archbishop of Armagh . Of whose miracles and Purgatory , I leave others to speak ; that are more credulous in the one , and have better leisure to relate the other ; and will shew thee Ireland , as now it is , first in general , and then in parts . Mounster map of the province of Munster The Province of MOUNSTER . CHAPTER II. THis Province , called in Irish , Mown ; in a more ordinary construction of Speech , Wown , in Latine , Momonia ; and in English , Mounster ; lieth open Southward to the Virginian Sea : Northward it affronteth part of Connaught : The East is neighboured by Leinster : and the West is altogether washed with the West-Ocean . ( 2 ) The length thereof extended from ●allatimore-Bay in her South , unto the Bay of Galway in her North , are about ninety miles . Her broadest part from East to West , is from Waterford-Haven to Feriter-Haven , and containeth an hundred miles . The whole circumference , by following the Prometaries and indents , are above five hundred and forty miles . ( 3 ) The ●orm thereof is quadrant or four-square . The Air mild and temperated , neither too chilling cold , nor too scorching hot . The Soil in some parts is ●illy , looking aloft with woody , wilde , and solitary Mountains : yet the Vallies below are garnished with Corn-fields . And generally , all , both pleasant for sight , and fertil for Soil . ( 4 ) This Province is at this day divided into two parts : that is , the West - Mounster , and the South - Mounster . The West - Mounster was inhabited in old time by the Luceni , the Velabri , and the Vterini : the South - Mounster by the Oudiae or Vodiae , and the Coriondi . The Velabri and Luceni are said ( by Orosius ) to have dwelt in that part of the Country , where it lie●h outmost Westward , and passing towards the Cantabrian-Ocean , looketh afar off to Gallitia in Spain . The Luceni of Ireland ( who seem to have derived their name and original from the Lucensii of Gallitia , and of whom there still remain some Reliques in the Barony of Lyxnouw ) are supposed to have been seated in those parts that lie neighbouring upon the bank of the River Shennon . ( 5 ) The general Commodities of this Province , are Corn , Cattel , Wood , Wooll , and Fish. The last whereof , it affords in every place , and abundance of all sorts . But none so well known for the store of Herrings that are taken there , as is the Promontory called Eraugh , that li●s between Banire and Ballatimore Bay , whereunto every year a great Fleet of Spaniards and Portugals resort ( even in the midst of Winter ) to fish also for Cods . ( 6 ) The principal City of the Province is Limericke , which the Irish call Loumeagh , compassed about with the famous River Shennon , by the parting of the Channel . This is a Bishops See , and the very Mart-Town of Mounster . It wa● first won by Reymond le Grosse an Englishman , afterwards burnt by Duenald an Irish petty King of Thuetmond . Then in process of time , Philip Breos an Englishman was infeoffed in it , and King Iohn fortified it with a Castle , which he caus●d therein to be built . In this Castle certain Hostages making their abode in the year 1332 , grew ( as is reported ) so full of pride and inconstancy , that they slew the Constable thereof , and seized the Castle into their own hands . But the resolute Citizens , that could neither brook nor bear with such barbarous cruelty , did in revenge then shew such manly courage and vivacity , as they soon after recovered the Castle again , repaying the Hostages in such hostile manner , as they put them all to the Sword without partiality . The position of this Town is by Mercator placed for Latitude 53 degrees , 20 minutes ; and for Longitude , 9 degrees 34 minutes . Near unto the River that Ptolomy calleth Daucona , and Giraldus Cambrensis ( by the alteration of some few letters ) nameth Sauranus , and Savarenus , which issueth out of Muskerey Mountains : is seated the City Corke , graced also with another Episcopal dignity ( and with the Bishops See of Clon annexed unto it ) which Giraldus calleth Corragia , the Englishmen Corke , and the native inhabitants of the Country Coreach . This Town is so bes●t on every side with neig●bouring molesters , as that they are still constrained to keep watch and ward , as if there lay continual siege against it . The Citizens of this place are all linkt together in some one or other degree of affinity , for that they dare not match their daughters in marriage into the Country , but make contracts of Matrimony one with another among themselves . In this place , that holy and religious man Briock , is said to have his birth and breeding , who flourished among the Gaules in that fruitful age of Christianity , and from whom the Diocess of Sambrioch in Britain Armorica , commonly called S. Brie● , had the denomination . ( 7 ) The City which the Irish and Britains call ●orthlargy , and the English , Waterford , though it be last in place , yet is it not least in account , as being the second City in all Ireland , as well for the convenience and commodiousness of the Haven ▪ that affords such necessary aptitude for trade and traffique , as also for the faithful loyalty which it hath always shewed to the Imperial Crown of England : for ever since it was won by Richard Earl of Pembroke , it still performed the obedience and peaceable offices of duty and service unto the English , as they continued the course in the Conquest of Ireland : whence it is that the Kings of England have from time to time endowed it with many large Franchises and Liberties , which King Henry the Seventh did both augment and confirm . ( 8 ) Although since the time of S. Patrick , Christianity was never extinct in this Country , yet the government being haled into contrary factions , the Nobility lawless , and the multitude wilful , it hath come to pass , that religion hath waxed ( with the temporal common sort ) more cold and feeble , being most of them very irreligious , and addicted wholly to superstitious observations : for in some parts of this Province , some are of opinion , that certain men are yearly turned into Wolves , and made Wolf-men . Though this hath been constantly affirmed by such as think their censures worthy to pass for currant and credible : yet let us suppose that haply they be possessed with the disease and malady that the Physicians call Lycanthropy , which begetteth and endange●eth such like phantasies through the malicious humours of Melancholly : and so oftentimes men imagine themselves to be turned and transformed into forms which they are not . Some again embrace another ridiculous opinion , and perswade themselves , that he who in the barbarous acclamation and out-cry of the Souldiers , which they use with great forcing and straining of their voices , when they joyn battel , doth not showre and make a noise as ●he rest do , is suddenly caught from the ground , and carryed as it were fl●ing in the Air , out of any Country of Ireland , into some desert vallies , where he feedeth upon grass , drinketh water , hath some use of reason , but not of speech , is ignorant of the present condition he stands in , whether good or bad : yet at length shall be brought to his own home , being c●ught with the help of Hounds and Hunters . Great pity that the foul fi●nd and father of darkness , should so grievously seduce this people with misbelief , and that these errours be not chased away with the truth of Christian Religion , whereby as they carry much grace in their countenances , they may also not be void of the inward grace of their souls and understanding . ( 9 ) This Province hath been sore wasted in the rebellions of Desmond , to whose aid Pope Gregory the thirteenth , and Philip King of Spain , sent c●rtain companies of Italians and Spaniards , who arrived not far from Dingle , fortified themselves , and gave it the name of Fort de Ore , sounding loud threats against the whole Country . But Arthur Baron Grey , Lord Deputy of Ireland , at the first onset decided their quarrel , by sheathing his Sword in their bowels ; and Desmond fearfully flying into the woods , was by a Souldier cut shorter by the head . And again , when the Kingdom of Ireland lay bleeding , and put almost to the hazard of the last cast , Don Iohn D'Aquila , with eight thousand Spaniards ( upon confidence of the excommunications of Piu● the fift , Gregory the thirteenth , and Clemen● the eight , Popes , all of them discharging their curses like unto thunderbolts against Queen Elizabeth of blessed memory ) landed near unto Kinsale presuming that the rebellions of Tyrone had turned the hearts of the Irish for Rome : Sir Charles Blunt Lord Mountjoy , in the depth of Winter , and with his tired Souldiers , so daunted their Spanish hearts that with one victory he repressed their bragging ●oldness , and recovered the Irish that were ready to revolt . ( 10 ) God hath oftentimes shewed his tender love and affection to this people , in laying his fatherly chastisements and afflictions upon them , sometimes by winds , sometimes by famine and dearth , and sometimes again by opening his hand of plenty into their laps to convert them to himself , and to divert their hearts from superstitions . In the year 1330 , about the feast of Saint Iohn Baptist , there began such a dearth of Corn in this Country , by the abundance of rain and the inundation of waters ( which continued until Michaelmas following ) that a Cranoc of Wheat was sold for twenty shillings , a Cranoc of Oats for eight shillings , a Cranoc of Pease , Beans , and Barley for as much . The winds the same year were so mighty , that many were hurt , and many slain out-right by the fall of houses that was forced by the violence of the same . The like whereof were never seen in Ireland . In the year 1317 , there was such a dearth of Corn and other Victuals , that a Cranoc of Wheat was sold for twenty three shillings . And many Housholders , that before time had sustained and relieved a great number , were this year driven to beg , and many famished . In the time of which famine , the mercy of God so disposed , that upon the 27 th day of Iune , in the year 1331 , there came to land such a mighty multitude of great Sea-fishes ( that is ) Thursheds , such as in many ages p●st had never been seen , that the people were much comforted in this distress , and received great relief and sustenance by the same . ( 11 ) Places of Religion in this Country . were the two Abbies at Toghall , calleth the North-●bbey and South-Abbey : The two Abbeys at Limerick , S. Francis Abbey , and S. Dominick Abbey : The two Abbeys at Cork , the Abbey of the Isle , and S. Frances Abbey : and the famous Abbey ( in times past ) for the holy Cross which hath had many priviledges and liberties granted unto it , in honour of a piece of Christs Cross , that was ( as they say ) sometimes preserved there . Thus were Christians perswaded in ancient times . And it is a wonder in what Troops and Assemblies people do ( even yet ) con●low thither upon devotion , as unto a place of holiness and sanctity : so firmly are they setled in the Religion of their Fore-fathers , which hath been increased beyond all measure by the negligent care of their Teachers , who should instruct their ignorance , and labour to reduce them from the errors they persevere in . This Province is governed by a Lord President ▪ who hath one assistant , twelve learned Lawyers , and a Secretary to keep it in duty and obedience . It was in times past divided into many parts , as Towoun , that is , North Mounster ; Deswoun , that is , South Mounster ; Hierwoun , that is , West Mounster ; Mean woun , that is , Middle Mounster ; and Vrwoun , that is , the Front of Mounster . But at this day it is distinguished into these Counties ; Kerry , Desmond , Limerick , Tiperary , Holycross , Waterford , and Cork which County in times past had been a Kingdom , containing with it Desmond also : for so in the Grant given by King Henry the second unto Robert Fitz-Stephen , and to Miles de Cogan , it is called in these words : Know ye that I have granted the whole Kingdom of Cork , excepting the City and Cantred of the Oustmans , to hold for them and their heirs , of me and Iohn my son , by the service of sixty Knights . The County of Waterford , King Henry the sixth gave unto Iohn Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury , with the name , stile , and the title of Earl of Waterford , which was afterward again assumed to the Crown . Touching the County of Holy Cross , as the opinion of that much frequented Abbey is much lessened , so that County is swallowed up altogether in the County Tipperary . It is fortified with five strong Castles , traded with six Market-Towns , and divided as followeth . MOVNSTER Limerick . Kerry . Cork . Waterford . Des●ond . Holy-Cross in Tipperary . LINSTER map of the province of Leinster LEINSTER . CHAPTER III. THis Country , the Natives call Leighnigh , the Britains Lein ; in Latine , Lagenia ; in the ancient lives of the Saints , Lagen ; and in English , Leinster . It lieth Eastward along Hibernicum Sea ; on Connaught side Westward it is bounded with the River Shaenon ; the North with the Territory of Louth , and the South with part of the Province of Mounster . This Country butteth upon England , as Mounster and Conn●ught do upon Spain . ( 2 ) The form thereof is triangle , and sides not much unequal , from her South East unto the West-point about 80 miles , from thence to her North-west about 70 miles , and her East Coast along the Irish Sea-shore , eighty miles : the circumference upon two hundred and seventy miles . ( 3 ) The air is clear and gentle , mixt with a temperate disposition , yielding neither extremity of heat or cold , according to the seasonable times of the year , and the natural condition of the Continent . The soil is generally fruitful , plentiful , both in fish and flesh , and in other victuals as butter , cheese , and milk . It is fertil in Corn , Cattle , and pasture grounds , and would be much more , if the husbandman did but apply his industry , to which he is invited by the commodiousness of the Country . It is well watered with Rivers , and for the most part well wooded , except the County of Divelin , which complains much of that want , being so destitute of wood , that they are compelled to use a clammy kind of fat turff for their fuel , or Sea-coal brought out of England . ( 4 ) The Inhabitants of these parts in Ptolomies days were the Brigantes , Menapii , Cauci , and ●lani ; from which Blani may seem to be derived and contracted the latter and modern names of this Country , L●in , Leighnigh , and Leinster ▪ The Menapii , ( as the name doth after a sort imply ) came from the Menapians , a Nation in Low Germany , that dwelt by the Sea-Coasts . These Brigantes , called also Brigants , Florianus del Campo ( a ●paniard labours to fetch from the Brigants of his own Countrey , of whom an ancient City in Spain ( called Brigantia ) took the name . But they may seem rather to derive their denomination from the River Birgus , about which they inhabited , for to this the very name is almost sufficient to perswade us . ( 5 ) The commodities of this Country do chiefly consist in Cattle , Sea-fowl , and Fish. It breeds many excellent good horses , called Irish Hobbies , which have not the same pace that other horses have in their course , but a soft and round amble , setting very easily . ( 6 ) This Country hath in it three Rivers of note , termed in old time the three sisters , Shour , Neor , and Batraeo ▪ which issue out of the huge Mountain ( called by Giraldus , Bladinae Montes ) as out of their mothers womb , and from their rising tops descending with a downfal into several Channels , before they empty themselves into the Ocean , joyn hand in hand altogether in a mutual league and combination . ( 7 ) Places very dangerous for shipping are certain flats and shallows in the Sea , that lie over against Holy-point , which the Mariners call the Grounds . Also the shelves of sand that lie a great way in length opposite to Newcastl● , which over looketh them into the Sea from the top of an high hill adjoyning . ( 8 ) In this Province are placed many fair and wealthy Towns , as Kilkenny , which for a Burrough-Town excels all the midland Burroughs in this Island . Kildare , which is adorned with an Episcopal See , and much graced in the first infancy of the Irish Church , by reason of Saint Brigid , a venerable Virgin , had in great account and estimation for her virginity and devotion , as who was the Disciple of S. Patrick of so great fame , renown , and antiquity : also Weisford ( a name given unto it by these Germans , whom the Irish term Oustmans ) a Town though inferiour to some , yet as memorable as any , so that it became the first Colony of the English , and did first submit it self unto their protection , being assaulted by Fitz Stephen , a Captain worthily made famous for his valour and magnanimity . ( 9 ) But the City which fame may justly celebrate alone , beyond all the Cities or Towns in Ireland , is that which we call Divelin , Ptolomy Eblana , the Latinists Dublinium , and Dublini● ; the West-Britaines , Dinas Dublin ; the English-Saxons in times past , Duplin ; and the Irish , Balacleigh , that is the Town upon hurdles : for it is reported that the place being fennish and moorish , when it first began to be builded , the foundation was laid upon hurdles . ( 10 ) That it is ancient , is perswaded by the authority of Ptolomy . That it was grievously rent and dismembred in the tumultuous wars of the Danes , and brought afterwards under the subjection of Edgar King of England , ( which his Charter also confirmeth , wherein he calleth it the noble City of Ireland ) is written by Saxo Grammaticus . That it was built by Harold of Norway , which may seem to be Harold Harsager , when he had brought the greatest part of Ireland into an awful obedience unto him , we read in the life of Griffith ap Sinan Prince of Wales . At length it yielded unto the valour and protection of the English , at their first arrival into Ireland , by whom it was manfully defended from the fierce assaults as well of Auscoulph Prince of the Dublinians , as afterwards of Gotard King of the Isles : since which time it hath still augmented her flourishing estate , and given approved testimony of her faith , and loyalty to the Crown of England , in the times of any tumultuous straights and commotions . ( 11 ) This is the Royal Seat of Ireland , strong in her munition , beautiful in her buildings , and ( for the quantity ) matchable to many other Cities , frequent for traffick and intercourse of Merchant● . In the East Suburbs , Henry the second , King of England ( as Hoveden reporteth ) caused a royal Palace to be erected : and Henry Loundres , Archbishop of Divelin , built a Store house about the year of Christ 1220. Not far from it is the beautiful Colledge consecrated unto the name of the holy Trinity , which Queen Elizabeth of famous memory dignified with the priviledges of an University . The Church of S. Patrick being much enlarged by King Iohn , was by Iohn Comin Archbishop of Dublin , born at Evesham in England . first ordained to be a Church of Prebends in the year 1191 It doth at this day maintain a Dean , a Chanter , a Chancellor , a Treasurer , two Archdeacons , and twenty two Prebendaries . This City in times past , for the due administration of Civil Government , had a Provost for the chief Magistrate . But in the year of mans redemption 1409 , King Henry the fourth granted them liberty to chuse every year a Major and two Bailiffes , and that the Major should have a gilt sword carried before him for ever . And King Edward the sixth ( to heap more honour upon this place ) changed the two Bailiffs afterwards into Sherif●s : so that there is not any thing here wanting that may serve to make the estate of a City most flourishing . ( 12 ) As the people of this Country do about the neighbouring parts of Divelin come nearest unto the civil conditions and orderly subjection of the English : so in places farther off they are more tumultuous , being at deadly feuds amongst themselves , committing oft-times Man slaughter one upon another , and working their own mischiefs by mutual wrongs : for so the Irish of Leinster wasted Leinster with many Towns in the same Province in the year 1294. And in the year 1301 , the men of Leinster in like manner raised a war in the winter season , setting on fire the Town of Wykinlo , Rathdo● , and others , working their own plague and punishment by burning up their sustenance , and losing their Castle by depr●dation . ( 13 ) Matter of observation , and no less admiration among them , is the Giants dance , commonly so called , and so much talked of , which Merlin is said by Art of Magick to have translated out of this Territory unto Salisbury Plain , which how true it is , I leave to the vain believers of miracles , and to the credulous observers of antiquity . ( 14 ) In this County have been erected many famous Monasteries , Abbeys , and religious houses , consecrated to devout and holy purposes : As the Monastery of Saint Maries of Oustmanby , founded for preaching Fryers , unto which of late daies the Iudicial Courts of th● : Kingdom have been translated : also the magnificent Abbey called S. Thomas Court at Dublin , builded and endowed in times past with many large priviledges and revenues of King Henry the second , in expiation of the murther of Thomas Arch-bishop of Canterbury . Likewise Teniern Monastery , or the notable Abbey which William Marshall Earl of Pembrooke founded , and called De●voto , for that he had vowed to God ( being ●ossed at Sea with many a sore and dangerous tempest ) to errect an Abbey wheresoever he came to land , and being ( after shipwrack ) cast upon land in this place , he made performance of his vow accordingly . This Province containeth the Counties of Kilkenny , Caterlough , Queens County , Kings County , Kildare , East-Meath , West-Meath , Weisford , and Dublin ( ●o say nothing of Wickl● and ●ernes , which either be already , or else are to be annexed unto it ) and subdivided into fifteen Market-Towns . It hath been fortified with the strength of many Castles against the power of enemies , and is thus divided : Counties , East Meath . West-Meath . Kilkenny . Caterlough . Queens County . Kings County . Kildare . Weisford . Dublin . CONNACK Petrus Kaerius caelavit . map of the province of Connaught The Province of CONNAUGHT . CHAPTER IIII. THis Province named by Giraldus Cambrensis , Conachtia ; and Co●acia : by the Irish Conaughty , and by English-men , Connaught : is bounded East-ward , with part of the County of Leinster ; North-ward , with part of Vlster ; West-ward , with the West-main Ocean , and on the South , it is confined with a part of the Province of Mounster , closed in with the River Shennon , and butting against the Kingdom of Spain , ( 2 ) The form thereof is long , and towards the North and South ends , thin and narrow : but as it grows towards the middle , from either part it waxeth still bigger and bigger : extending in length from the River Shennon in her South , to Enis Kelling in her North , 126 miles ; and the broadest part is from Tromer in her East , to Barragh Bay in her West , containing about fourscore miles . The whole in circuit and compass is above four hundred miles . ( 3 ) The Air is not altogether so pure and clear , as in the other Provinces of Ireland by reason of certain most places ( covered over with grass ) which for their softness are usually termed Boghes , both dangerous , and full of vaporous and foggy mists . ( 4 ) This County as it is divided into several portions , so is every portion severally commended for the soile , according to the seasonable times of the year to Twomond or the County Clare , is said to be a Country so conveniently situated , that either from the Sea or Soil there can be nothing wisht for more , than what it doth naturally afford of it self , were but the industry of the Inhabitants answerable to the rest . Galway is a land very thankful to the painful husbandman , and no less commodious and profitable to the Shepherd . Maio , in the Roman Provincial called Mageo , is replenished both with pleasure and fertility abundantly rich in Cattel , Deer , Hawks , and plenty of Honey . Slego ( coasting up the Sea ) is a plenteous Country for feeding and raising of Cattel . Le-Trim ( a place rising up throughout with hills ) is so full of rank grass and forrage , that ( as Solinus reporteth ) if Cattel were not kept sometimes from grazing ▪ their fulness would endanger them . And Roscomen is a Territory , for the most part plain and fruitfull , feeding many Herds of Cattle , and with mean husbandry and tillage , yielding plenty of Corn. As every particular part is thus severally profitab●e be in-bred commodities : so is it no less commended ( in the generality ) for the many accommodate and fit Baies , Creeks , and navigable Rivers , lying upon her Sea-Coasts , that after a sort invite and provoke the Inhabitants to Navigation . ( 5 ) Such as in ancient time made their abode and habitations in this Province , were the GANGANI , who were also called CONCANI , AUTERI , and NAGNATAE . As the Luceni ( that were next neighbours unto them ) came from the Lucensii ( in Spain ) so those Gangani and Concani may seem also to have fetcht their derivation from the Concani ( a Nation of the self-same Country ) both by the affinity of name , and vicinity of place . In Strabo , according to the diversity of reading , the same people are named Coniaci and Conisci : and Silius testifieth them at the first to have been Scythians , and to have used ordinarily to drink horses bloud ( a thing nothing strange among the wild Irish even of late days . ) And some may also haply suppose that the Irish name Conaughty , was compounded of Concani and Nagnatae . Howsoever , it is sure that these were the ancient inhabitants of this Country , as is to be seen in Ptolomy . ( 6 ) The Principal City of this Province , and which may worthily be accounted the third in Ireland , is Galway , in Irish , Gallive , built in manner much like to a Tower. It is dignified with a Bishops See , and it is much frequented with Merchants , by reason whereof , and the benefit of the Road and Haven , it is gainful to the Inhabitants through traffique and exchange of rich commodities , both by Sea and Land. Not far from which , near the West shoar that lies indented with small in-lets and out-lets , in a row , are the Islands called Arran , of which many a foolish fable goes , as if they were the Islands of the living , wherein none died at any time , or were subject to mortality ; which is as superstitious an observation , as that used in some other corners of the Country , where the people leave the right Arms of their Infants males unchristned ( as they term it ) to the end that at any time afterwards , they might give a more deadly and ungracious blow when they strike ▪ which things do not only shew how palpable they are carried away by traditious obscurities , but do also intimate how full their hearts be of inveterate revenge . ( 7 ) This Province presents no matter more worthy of memory , than the battel of Knock-●●● ( that is ) The hill of Axes , under which the greatest rabble of Rebbels , that were ever seen before in Ireland ( raised and gathered together by the Arch-Rebbels of that time , William Burk O Brien , Mac-Nenare , and O Carrol ) were after a bloudy overthrow discomfited and put to flight by the noble service of Girald Fitz-Girald Earl of Kildare . And the suppression of certain Irish ( the posterity of Mac-William ) who usurping a tyranny in these parts , raged sometimes upon themselves , with mutual injuries , and oppressed the poor people a long time with extorting , pilling and spoiling ; so as they left scarce one house in the Country unrifled , or unrased ; but were bridled and repressed ( even in our remembrance ) by the severity and resolution of the Commissioners of those times , who in his wisdom and pollicy well understood , that their excessive insolence , and those their unjust doings , would be a means to draw the people away from the due obedience to their Prince : such therefore as refused to obey the Laws , and sided with the tumultuous , with all care and diligence he soon scattered , forcing their Forts , and driving them into woods and lurking holes ( for troubling the blessed estate of tranquility ) till the Lord Deputy , who took pity of them , upon the● humble supplication , commanded by his missives , that they should be received upon term● of peace . But they being a stiff-necked people , took Arms again , entred a-fresh into actual rebellion , dra●e away booties , made soul uproars , and upon fair promises procured the aid of the Scottish Islanders , from out of the Hebrides whereupon the Governour assembled an Army , and pursued them with such powerful violence through the Woods and Forrests , that after six or seven weeks , being grievously hunger-bitten , they submitted themselves in all humility . The Auxiliary forces also of the Scots he by day and night affronted so near , and followed so hardly , that he put them to flight , after he had killed and drowned about three thousand of them in the River Moin . ( 8 ) About the year 1316 , there was such a great slaughter made of the Irish in this Province of Connaught , through a quarrel that rose there between two Lords or Princes , that there were slain on both sides about four thousand men ; and so great a tribulation at that time came upon the people , that they did devour and eat one another , so as of 10000 , there remained not above 300 living . As it is reported for truth , that the people were then so hunger-starved , that in Church-yards they took the d●ad bodies out of their graves , and in their sculls boyled the fl●sh , and fed upon it : yea , and that women did eat their own Children . Thus appeared the ire and anger of God , in punishing their sins , and seeking their conversion . ( 9 ) Places memorable , are Iuis Ceath , well known by the Monastery of Colman ( a devout Saint founded for Scots and Englishmen ; and Inis Bovind , which Beda calleth , White Calfe lsle . Also Maio , a Monastery built ( as Beda writeth ) for thirty men of English Nation . Likewise the Barony of Boil● , under Curlew hills , where in times past was a famous Abbey built , together wi●h the Abbey of Beatitude , in the year of grace 1152. These Abbeys and monasteries erected at the first for religious services , and through ignorance and other obscurities diverted since unto superstitious uses , are now made the ruins of time . ( 10 ) The Province of Connaught is at this day strengthened with fourteen Castles , traded with nine Market Towns , and divided as ensueth : Counties , Clare , or Twomond . Galway . Maio. Slego . Letrim . Roscomen . ULSTER map of the province of Ulster The Province of ULSTER . CHAPTER . V. THis Province , called by our Welsh Britains Vltw , in Irish Cui Guilly , in Latine Vltonia , and Vlidia , in English Vlster ; on the North is divided by a narrow Sea from Scotland ; South-ward it extends it self to Connagh and Leinster ; the East part lyeth upon the Irish Sea ; and the West part is continually beaten with the boyst●rous rage of the main West Ocean . This Province and furthest part of Ireland ▪ affronteth the Scottish Islands , which are called the Hebrides , and are scattered in the Seas between both Kingdomes ; whose Inhabitants at this day is the Irish Scot , Successour of the old Scythian . ( 2 ) The form thereof is round , reaching in length from Coldagh Haven in the North to Kilmore in her South , near an hundred miles ; and in breadth from Black-Abbey in her East , to Calebegh point in her West , one hundred thirty and odd miles : The whole in circumference , about four hundred and twenty miles . ( 3 ) This Country seldom feeleth any unseasonable extremities , the quick and flexible Winds cooling the heat of Summer , and soft and gentle Showers mollifie the hardness of the Winter . Briefly , the frozen nor torrid Zone have not here any usurpation ; the clouds in the air very sweet and pleasant , yea , and when they are most impure , are not unwholsome , nor of long continuance , the rough winds holding them in continual agitation . ( 4 ) This equal temperature causeth the ground to bring forth great store of several Trees , both fit for building ▪ and bearing of fruit ; plentiful of Grass for the feeding of Cattel , and is abundantly furnished with Horses , Sheep , and Oxen ; the Rivers likewise pay double tribute , deep enough to carry Vessels either for pleasure or profit , and Fish great store , both for their own uses , and commodity of others . Salmon in some Rivers of this County abound more in number than in any River of Europe . To speak ( in general ) though in some places it be somewhat barren , troubled with Loughs , Lakes , and thick Woods , yet it is every where fresh , and full of Cattel and Forrage , ready at all times to answer the husbandmans pains . But nature is there so little beholding to Art or Industry , that the various shew upon Banks , the Shady Groves , the Green Meadows , hanging Hills , and fields fit for Corn , ( if they were manured ) do seem to be angry with their Inhabitants for suffering all to grow wild and barbarous ▪ through their own negligence . ( 5 ) This Country in Prolomies daies was wholly possessed by the Voluntii , Darni , Robogdii , and Erdini , who branched and spread themselves into the several parts of that Island . ( 6 ) The people of this Province were accustomed in controversies and solemn protestations to swear by S. Patricks Staffe , which oath they feared more to break , than if they had sworn by the holy Evangelists . Their ancient custom in making their King , was this : A white Cow was taken , which the King most kill , and seeth the same in water whole , then must he bathe himself therein stark naked ; and sitting in the Caldron wherein it was sod , accompanied with his people round about him , he and they used to eat the flesh and drink the broath wherein he ●ate , without cup , or dish , or use of hand . How far these prescriptions and customes were different from the conformities of other civil Monarchies , we may well perceive by these and other like observations of those gross times : and as yet they are more barbarous than is any other part of the Island besides . ( 7 ) Historians relating of Ireland , tell of several Islands in ●he several Provinces : some full of Angels , some full of Devils ; some for Male only , some for Female ; some where none may live ; some where none can dye ; and such effects of trees , stones , and waters , that a man ( but of easie conceit ) may well esteem them as heedless as uncertain . So also S. Patrieks Purgatory ( a thing of much note in the Tract of this Province ) is a vault or narrow cave in the ground , near a Lake ( called Ern● Liffer ▪ ) much spoken of , by reason of ( I wot not what ) fearful walking spirits and dreadful apparitions , or rather some religious horror ) which ( as some ridiculously dream ) was digg'd by Vlysses when he went down to parely with those in hell . This is the Cave which the Inhabitants in these dayes call Ellan 〈◊〉 ●rugadory , that is , The Isle of Purgatory , and S. Patricks Purgatory ; for some persons , less devout than credulous , affirm that S. Patrick ( or rather Patricius Secundus , an holy Abbot of that name ) labouring the conversion of the people of this Province , and much inforcing the life to come , they replyed contemptuously unto him , that unless they saw proofs of those joyes and pains he preached , they would not lose the possession of their present pleasures , in hope or fear of things to come , they 〈◊〉 not when . Whereupon ( as they say ) he obtained at Gods hands by earnest prayer , ●hat the punishments and torments which the godles ▪ are to suffer after this life , might be there presented to the eye , that so he might more easily root out the sins and Heathenish Errours , that stuck so fast in the hearts of the Irish. But touching the credit hereof ( although common fame , and some records do utter it ) I neither will urge the beliefe , nor regard , seeing it is no Article of our Creed . ( 8 ) Matters memorable within this Province are these : first , that the Bishops of Ireland were wont to be consecrated by the Archbishop of Canterbury , in regard of the Primacy which they had in this Country , until such time as Iohn Papirio a Cardinal was sent thither from Pope Eugenius the fourth , to reform Ecclesiastical Discipline in this Island , which was then grown so loose , that there were Translations and Pluralities of Bishops , according to the will and pleasure of the Metropolitan . Also that the Irish men were accustomed to leave and forsake their wedded Wives at their own free-wills , whereof Lanfranck Archbishop of Canterbury complained unto Therdeluac a King of Ireland . And had not this Nation been corrupted with this vice , even unto these our days ; both the right of lineal succession had been more certain among them , and the Gentry and Commonalty had not in such cruelties imbrued themselves , with such effusion of their own kindreds blood , about their Inheritances and legitimation . ( 9 ) The principal Town in this Tract is Armagh , near unto the River Kalin , which ( albeit it maketh a poor shew ) is the Archiepiscopal See and Metropolitane of the whole Island . Before Saint Patrick had built there a fair City , for site , form , quantity , and compass , modelled out ( as he saith ) by the appointment and direction of Angels , this place was named Drumsalrich ; the Irish tell much that it received the name of Queen Armacha : but the better opinions are , that it is the same which Beda calleth Dearmach , and out of the Scottish and Irish Language interpreteth it , The Field of Oaks . Here ( as S. Bernard writeth ) S. Patrick the Apostle of Ireland ruled in his life time , and rested after death : in honour of whom it was of such venerable estimation in old time , that not only Bishops and Priests , but Kings also and Princes were ( in general ) subject to the Metropolitan thereof in all obedience , and to his government alone . Among the Archbishops of this Province , S. Malachy is famoused , who first prohibited Priests marriage in Ireland , and ( as S. Bernard saith , who wrote his life at large ) borrowed no more of the native barbarousnes of that County , than Sea-fishes do saltness of the Seas . Also Richard Fitz-Ralph ( commonly called Armachanus ) is of famous memory , who turned the edge of his style , about the year 1355 , began to oppose his opinion against the order of Mendicant ●ryers , as detesting in Christians such voluntary begging . The chief Fort in this Tract is E●is K●lling , defended by the Rebels in the year 1593 , and won by Dowdal a most valiant Captain : near unto which is a great downfall of water , termed , The Salmon Leap : of which there is a common Speech currant among the Inhabitants , that it was once firm ground , very populous , and well husbanded with tillage ; till it was suddenly over-flown with water , and turned into a Lake , for some filthy abominable acts of the people against Nature committed with Beasts . ( 10 ) The places of Religion , sequestred from other worldly services , and consecrated to holy purposes , erected in this province , were , The Abbey which sheweth it self at Donegal : The Monastery of Deryo , where the Irish Rebel Shan O Neal received such an overthrow ( by Edward Randolph , renowned for his service in the behalf of his Co●ntry ) that he could never after recover the loss he sustained at that time : The Monastery near unto the River Liffer : The famous Monastery at the Bay of Knockfergus , of the same institution , name and order , as was that ancient Abbey in England , near unto Chester , called Banchor : also Mellifont Abbey , founded by Donald a King of Vriel , and much commended by S. Bernard : And lastly , the most renowned Monastery , built at Armagh in the year of our Salvation 610 , out of which very many Monasteries were afterwards propagated both in Britain and Ireland . These places were far and near frequented and sought unto by great confluences of Pilgrims , till Time proved their devotions to be erronious , and the pure light of the word revealed , opening the eyes of their understanding , hath taught them to shake off the shame of such Superstitions , ( 11 ) That the people of this County might be kept within the bounds of their duty , this Province hath been secured with fifty six Castles and Forts ; and for trade of commerce , nine Narket-Towns appointed , being divided into these Counties ensuing : Counties . Dunghall , or Tyr connel . Vpper Tyrone . Nether Tyrone . Fermanagh . Cavan . Monaghan . Colrane . Antrim . Downe . Armagh , Lough . FINIS . The Table to find the Maps as appeareth by Folio . ENgland , Scotland , and Ireland . 1 England . 2 Kent . 3 Sussex . 4 Surrey . 5 Southampton . 6 The Isle of Wight . 7 Dorcetshire . 8 Devonshire . 9 Cornwall . 10 Sommersetshire . 11 Wiltshire . 12 Barkshire . 13 Middlesex . 14 Essex County . 15 Suffolke . 16 Norfolke . 17 Cambridgeshire . 18 Hartfordshire . 19 Bedfordshire . 20 Buckinghamshire . 21 Oxfordshire . 22 Gloucestershire . 23 Herefordshire . 24 Wo●cestershire . 25 Warwickshire . 26 Northamptonshire . 27 Huntingtonshire . 28 Rutlandshire . 29 Leicestershire . 30 Lincolnshire . 31 Nottinghamshire . 32 Darbyshire . 33 Staffordshire . 34 Shro●shire . 35 Chester . 36 Lancashi●e . 37 Yorkshire . 38 The Bishoprick of Durham . 39 Westmorland and Cumberland . 40 Northumberland . 41 The Isle of Man. 42 Holy Island , &c. 43 Wales . 44 Pembrokeshire . 45 Radnor , Breknock , Cardigan and Caermarden described . 46 Glamorganshire . 47 Monmouthshire , 48 Montgomery , &c. 49 Denbigh and Flint described . 50 Anglesey and Carnarvan . 51 The Kingdom of Scotland . 52 The South part of Scotland . 53 The Southern part of Scotland . 54 The Eastern part of Scotland . 55 Part of Scotland , Stranavern . 56 The Isles of Hebrides . 57 Cathanes and Orknay . 58 Ireland described . 59 Mounster . 60 Leinster . 61 Connaught . 62 Vlster . 63 MIDIA . 64 A PROSPECT OF THE MOST FAMOUS PARTS of the VVORLD . VIZ. ASIA , 13 AFRICA , 24 EUROPE , 35 AMERICA . 46 With these Kingdoms therein contained , Graecia , 57 Roman Empire , 67 Germany , 78 Bohemia , 88 France , 98 Belgia , 109 Spain , 120 Italy , 131 Hungary , 142 Denmark , 151 Poland , 161 Persia , 175 Turkish Empire , 180 Kingdom of China , 189 Tartaria , 198 LONDON , Printed by W. G. 1675. A NEW AND ACCVRAT MAP OF THE WORLD Drawne according to y e truest Descriptions latest Discoveries Pe. Kaerius Caelavit 1646. The General Description of the WORLD . HEaven was too long a reach for Man to recover at one step : And therefore God first placed him upon the earth , that he might for a time contemplate upon his inferiour works , magnifie in them his Creator ; and receive here a hope of a fuller bliss , which by degrees he should at last enjoy in his place of rest . For this end was the lower World created in the beginning out of a rude Mass , which before had no Form. And that it might be made habitable , the Lord separated the dry Land from the Waters upon the third day . Yet so as still they make but one Globe , whose center is the same with the middle World ; and is the Point and Rest as it were of all heavy Bodies , which naturally apply themselves to it : and there are supported by their own weight and equal poise . ( 2 ) It hath seemed incredible ( to such as measure the Wonders of God by Mans Wisdom ) that this m●ssie part of the World should subsist by it self , not bo●n up by any outward Prop , encompast only with 〈◊〉 and fleetingAir , such as can neither help to sustain nor r●sist the fall , cou●d the earth be moved from her duce place . But the wonder will ce●●e if we remember that the Lord sitteth upon the circle of the earth ▪ Isa. 40. He set it upon her foundations so that it shall never move . He covered it with the Deep as much a Garment . The Waters would stand above the Mountains , but at his rebuke they fled . Yet he set them a bound which they should not pass ( 3 ) Thus ordered by Divine Providence the Earth ▪ and Sea composed themselves into a Spherical Figure , as is here described . And is caused by the proper inclination of each part , which being heavy , falls from ever● point of the Circumference , and claps about the center : there settles as near as it may towards his place of rest . We may illustrate both the figure and situation by a familiar similitude , to an ingenious apprehension . Suppose we a knot to be knit in the midst of a cord that hath many ends : and those to be delivered to sundry men of equal strength , to be drawn several ways round from every part , above and below , and on each side ; questionless whilest every man draws in the boes of the knot , it must needs become round : and whilest they continue to pluck with equal strength , it must rest immoveable in the middle betwixt them : since every strength that would destory , hath a strength equal to resist it . So it is in the bosom of the earth , where every part meets upon equal priviledge of na●ure ; nor can any press farther than the center , to destroy this compacted figure : for it must meet there with a body that will oppose it . Or if not , yet could it not pass , since every motion from the middle were to ascend , which Nature will not permit in a body of weight , as the earth is . ( 4 ) Now though in a Sphere every cross line , which way soever drawn , if it run through the middle , must needs be of equal quantity , and therefore admits no difference of length or bredth : yet the Geographers for their purpose have conceived ( and but conceived ) a Longitude and Latitude upon the earth . The Longitude they reckon from the first Meridian in the Azores , and so Eastward round number the degrees upon the Aequator : The Latitude from the Aequator to each Pole , and number the degrees upon the outward Meridional circle . This inkling may suffice to instruct the ignorant in the search of any place that shall be hereafter mentioned in my Discourse . ( 5 ) The compass of the whole is cast by our latest and most learned to be 21600 English miles : which though none ever yet so paced , as to measure them by the foot : yet let not the ignorant reject this account , since the rule by which they are led cannot fail . For we see by continual experience , that the Sun for every degree in the Heavens gains 60 miles upon the earth towards his circuit round : and after 360 degrees returneth to the same point in respect of us as before it was . Repeat the number of sixty so oft , and you will find the account just . And so by proportion of the circumference to the Diameter ( which is tripl● s●squi septim● the same which 22 hath to 7 ) we may judge likewise of the earths thickness to the Center . The whole Diameter must ( by rule ) be somewhat lesser than a third part of the circuit : that in proportion to 21600 will be 6872 : half the number will reach● the middle of the world , and that is 3436. In this report both of the quantity and form of the earth , we must not require such exactness as cannot vary a hairs bredth : for we see the mountains of the earth , and oftentimes the waves of the Sea make the superficies unequal . It will be sufficient , if there be no difference sensible to be reckoned in so great a bulk . for let us rudely hew a ball out of rough stone ; still it is a ball , though not so smooth as one of Crystal : Or suffer a mote to fall upon a Sphere of glass , it changeth not its figure : far less are the mountains which we see in respect of the whole lump . For other rules or terms Geographical , I refer them to a peculiar tract , that will afford me more room and time . ( 6 ) When the Earth and Sea were thus prepared with a due figure , a just quantity and convenient ●eat both in respect of the Heavens and themselves : Nature began ( at command of the most High ) to use her Art , and to make it a fit dwelling place for the Image of God , for so was man created , and so indeed was the Earth no other than the picture of Heaven . The ground brought forth her plants and fruits : the Skies were filled with the Fowl of the Air : the waters yielded their fish , and the fields their Cattel . No sooner his house was thus finish't , but man enters upon his possession the sixth day . And that shall be our tract to find out the worlds first Inhabitants ; where it was peopled in the beginning : and how it was over-spread with Countries and Nations , as now it is . ( 7 ) In the first Age , there was little need of skill to measure the whole Earth . A garden plot might suffice , and so ( for a time ) it did . It was planted in Ed●n : But where that was , I may not peremptorily determine , nor indeed dare I be so curious in the search . The hidden things belong to th● Lord , the revealed to us , Deut. 29. God himself in the beginning set a Cherubion , and the blade of a sword shaken to keep the re-entry from our first parents ; and we may affirm , hath concealed it ever since . Yet to satisfie ( in some measure ) such as are more inquisitive , I will touch at the several conjectures , which hath passed upon the place of this earthly Paradise . Rog. Higd●n Monk of Chester , and with him Iohn Trevisa set it in the field of Damascus : and many others ( probably enough ) have thought it was in the Land of Canaan : for that in divers places , it is noted with attributes proper to the garden of Eden . She was seated in the midst of Nations ▪ Ezek. 5. It was a Land of Wheat , Barley and Vines , Fig-trees and Pomgranates , a Land of Olives and Honey , a Land whose stones were Iron , and out of whose hills might be digged brass , Deut. 8. She was pleasant above all Lands , Ezek. 20. Yet Franciscus Iunius , D. Willet , Sir Walter Raleigh , and others , make it a part of Mesopotamia , North-west from Babylon , about the degrees of 78 in Longitude , and of Latitude 35 , where still the Rivers meet , mentioned in Genesis and where Ptolemy hath his Audanites , a corrupt name , ( as is supposed ) from Ed●n . Certainly it was about the middle of the Earth , and abounded by a peculiar blessing of God , with all kinds serviceable for the use of man. ( 8 ) But Adam soon lost this possession by his disobedience , and was cast out on the East-side of the garden , where he placed himself . Moses makes no more particular relation . Cain is specified to have gone out of the presence of the Lord into the Land of Nod , and there built him a City , and named it after his sons name Henoch : this was the first City , and was seated ( some thing ) about Mount Libanus . As the place , so the time when it was found is uncertain : but the common conjecture gives it to be about 2 or 3 hundred years after the Creation , when the world was replenished : as well it might be within that compass , if we compare it to our known stories . Abraham in 215 years had 600 thousand of his own stock , in the blessed line , besides women and children . And in this number we omit his other seed , of whom came twelve Princes . Questionless after this proportion the people multiplied in the beginning , and so for 1656 years forward , and that must needs 〈◊〉 a large portion of the earth , most likely those parts of Asia that lay nearest to their first seat . For they wandred no farther than necessity of room compelled them . ( 9 ) But now as man , so the sin of man was grown to a height . For this the wrath of God fell upon them in a flood , that destroyed the whole earth saving eight persons , Noah and his family , who were commanded into an Ark built by Gods own direction , and is held to have been the pattern for all Ships to all posterity . ( 10 ) When the anger of the Lord was ceased , and the waters abated , after 150 days float the Ark rested upon the Mountains of Arrarat in Armenia . They are supposed by most to be the same which Ptolomy calleth Montes Cordios , about the degree in 75 Longitude , and in Latitude 39. Master Cartwright , a Traveller of our own Nation , reports himself an eye-witness of many ancient and ruinous foundations there , which the inhabitants have believed through all ages to be the work of those first people , that for a long time durst not adventure into the lower Countries for fear of another flood . ( 11 ) But God blessed the remnant which he had preserved ; and when he had given them the Rainbow for a sign of his mercy , that he would no more break up the fountains of the great deep , nor open the windows of heaven upon them to root out all flesh , by degrees they descended from the hills Eastward , and seated themselves upon a plain in the Land of Shinar . This was the lower part of Mesopotamia which compassed Chaldea and Babylonia , lying under the Mount Singara , a hill neer the degrees of 77 in Longitude , and of Latitude 36 , and stands in the direct way from Arrarat or the Moutes Cordios towards Baby●on . ( 12 ) There when their number increased , and they forced still to seek new Colonies , they were ambitious to leave a name behind them for posterity , and therefore adventured upon a building whose top should reach Heaven : and so indeed in did ; for it fetcht from thence Gods second vengeance . He confounded their speech , that they no longer understood one the other . Thus they were broke off from their impious attempt , and scattered upon all the earth ( about an hundred years after the Floud ) into seventy two several Nations , as some have punctually numbred ●hem ( 13 ) Whether Noah himself were present or to what place he removed , is uncertain . He had yet two hundred and fifty years to live , and is thought to have had his habitation in Phenicia , North-ward from Palestine about the degree of 66 , and 33. ( 14 ) His Sons , Sem , Ham , and Iapheth , possest their several Provinces of the World. From Iapheth came the Isles of the Gentiles , of which we are a part , to him Europe is by most allotted . Sem not guilty questionless of that proud enterprise , rested himself in the land of Canaa● , which he knew as it was revealed to Abraham , should be given to his posterity . Yet part of his issue ( the Sons of Iocktan ) were divided and lived remote toward the East . To him was Asia . But Cham by his fathers curse , for discovering his nakedness , roved to the utmost parts of the earth , and peopled with his Progeny especially those Countries which are most toucht in Histories for Barbarism and Idolatry . As indeed how could it otherwise be ? since himself had lost his father that should instruct him : and therefore could deliver no precepts to his children , but left every one to his own inventions . And those that at the confusion spread , where ever they came , this diversity of Customs and Religions , that possess the world at this day . To him was Africa . ( 15 ) America too doubtless had her portion in the division , though not so soon or so immediate , but seemed rather of later times to have received her people from the bordering parts of Asia ; and those are thought by most to have been first inhabited by Iocktan and his thirteen Sons , the issue of Sem. It is ●aid in the Text , they possest the East-part from Mesha to Sephar : Iosophus takes the first for a Countrey , and the second for a Mountain in India , insomuch as that he strictly bounds out their possession from the River Cephew to Ieria , which is now called the East or Portugal Indies . Indeed many of those Eastern Regions are noted to bear the name as yet of Iocktans sons . The Shabeans found as if they had Sheba to their Father . And from Havilah is a Country in Ieria , From Shaphira , Iosephus derives Ophir ; both of especial fame for their plenty of Gold. But it is Doctor Willets opinion that Ophir was rather the same Region in the West Indies which is now called Peru. To say truth we have little certainity of the first Inhabitants which were seated in America , or the Parts of Asia near about her : whether ●●ey were so long since known I must doubt . For the bestowing of Iocktan , and his sons , it was toward the East from Mesha to Sephar : but where those are , Saint Hierome confesseth himself at a stand . And for my part I will travel no farther in these hidden Mysteries , than I find a path beaten before me . ( 16 ) This may satisfie the ingenuous , that I have ( as far as I might in this little room ) trac't the first Nations from their first Founders which they had in the beginning . But to draw the direct line of every people mixt as they now are , I think a work impossible ; to me I am sure it is . For besides our several translations and promiscuous commerce , that puzzle us in the knowledge of our selves : we have of late found , and as yet are in search of a new people , that know not their own Original , nor have we any means to examin it , but conjectural , such as may fail . To Moses time the Scripture affordeth us a certain truth for as many as he mentioneth , and since we have some light from such as have laboured in the search of Antiquities . The Families ( as Iosephus gives time ) are truly and curiously brancht forth and placed among the Genealogies before our Bible of the last Translation , by our well-deserving Countrey-man Mr. Iohn Speed. ( 17 ) Thus far it was requisite we should know at large the growth of the world from the beginning ; and how the whole earth , which at first knew but one Land-lord , hath been since rent into several parcels , which Kings and Nations call their own , and maintain their claim by force of Arms. This little compass will not admit a more particular relation of their affairs . For that I must refer my Reader to their Historians : and now desce●d to the Geographical Description and division of the world , as in after Ages it was found by our first Artists , and hath been since more at large discovered by the experience of our later Travellers . ( 18 ) And in this we may still observe our method . For questionless by the same degrees almost as it was inhabited , so it grew into the knowledge of our ancient Geographers . And therefore our first Authors in this Science bounded their Descriptions within a less compass , and divided the world into those three parts only , which you see lie closest about the point of the earth , where the first men , first Religion , first City , first Empire , and first Arts were . For in Prolomy's time ( about an hundred and forty years after Christ ) we hear not of either Land or Sea known more than was contained in Asia , Africa , and Europe . ( 19 ) And of that he never knew the East and North parts of Asia , nor the South of Africa , no nor the most Northerly parts of Europe : but placed the end of the world that way in Vltima thule , about sixty three degrees from the Aequator . And Southward the other way not above 17 degrees , Prasso Permotorio ▪ which at this day is called Mosambique R●cks . So the whole Latitude of the world , then known , did not reach the fourth part of the Compass . In the Longitude indeed they came not so far short ; yet le●t they just half to the search of their posterity . For they placed their first Meridian in the Fortunate Islands , and ended their reckoning in Region Sinarum of the Eastern Indies , and that is distant but 180 degrees toward the 360 , which is the compass of the whole . ( 20 ) But God in these later times hath enlarged our possessions , that his Gospel might be propagated , and hath discovered to us Inhabitants almost in every corner of the earth . Our later Geographers have set their mark beyond Ptolomy's 60 degrees Eastward . And Westward to the utmost parts of America . So that there are already known 340 of the earths Longitude . Toward the North Pole we have gained , more in proportion , as far as Nova zembla , and the Sea is known to be navigable to the eighty first degree : whether the rest be Land or not , it never yet appeared to any ( ●s I hear of ) but an Oxford Frier by a Magick V●yage . He reports of a black rock just under the Pole , and an Isle of Pygmies ▪ Other stra●ge miracles , to which ( for my part ) I shall give little credit till I have better proof for it than the Devils word . Now of all , the Southern course is most unknown ; aud vet Ar● hath not been Idle , nor altogether lost 〈…〉 in the search : it hath discoverd Countries ●bout the 52 degree toward the Pole , but so ●ncertainly , that it may well yet keep her name of Terra incognita . ( 21 ) Admirable was the wit of that man , that first found out the vertue of the Load-stone , and taught● us to apply it in the Art of Navigation . And indeed the industry of them is much to be honoured , that have since ven●ured born their means and persons upon dangerous attempts , in the discoveries of People and Nations that 〈…〉 God , nor had apparent means for their Redemption without this help . Among these ( though the Gen●● , Spaniard , and Portugal carry the first name ) we have noble spirits of our own Nation , not to be ranked in the last place . Stupenda fuit revera industria Anglorum , saith Keckerman . And indeed we may justly enough requite him with his own Elogy . The Dutch to have done their parts to joyn a new World to the old . ( 22 ) To us it may well be called a new World , for it comprehends in it two Continents , either of them larger than two parts of the other are . The one is that Western Hemisphere that bears the name America from Americus Vesputius but was indeed discovered seven years before he knew it ) by Christopherus Columbus , in the year 1492. And the other is the Terr● Magellanica , seated about the South Pole , and first sound out by Ferdinand Magellanus some twenty year● after , or thereabout , and is thought to be greater than the whole earth be●ides . Hitherto it is but conjectural ▪ and some few Provinces have been rather descried than known . You shall find them named in their several Regions upon the Sea-Coasts . Nova Guinea , Terra del Feugo , 〈◊〉 Regio , Lucach , Beach , and Mal●tur . ( 23 ) With these additions the World by some is divided into six parts , Europe , Asia , Africa , America , Septentrionalis incognita , and Terra Australis Magellanica : which are thus disposed in the Globe of the Earth . Asia in the E●stern Hemisphere . And being the first part which was inhabited , shall be the Point unto which I will direct the rest : pa●t on the West , and part on the South is Africa si●uated : on the North and West Europe , more toward the West America u●raque : full North Septen●rionalis incognita : and full South the Terra Magellanica . ( 24 Those we will reduce ( in our method ) to the four common parts , which generally pass in our de●criptions of the World : Europe , Asia , Africa , America utraque : in this last include the Terra Set●entrionalis and Magellanica ( as others have before done ) and allow it not a several part by it self , in reg●rd that little can be reported of those Countries , but what may be dispatcht in a few words . The Inhabitants are not many in either , and those barbarous : In the Terra Magellanica they go naked . In the Land del ●eugo , there is much smoak . In 〈◊〉 Region there are great Parrats . In B●ach , Gold. In Maletur ▪ Spices . ( 25 ) Of the rest severally I shall nor need here to enlarge my discourse , since the particular Map of every Region may justly challenge is their proper right ; and will be , I hope , very shortly extant for my Reader to peruse . ASIA map of Asia The Description of ASIA . THe method propounded in our general Description of the World , gives Asia the prerogative as well for worth as time . Europe shall not want her due , in her due place . It will suffice her , if she be at this day most famous for the acts of men , and so it is allowed by most . But in Asia did God himself speak his miraculous work of the Creation . There was the Church first collected : there was the Saviour of the World born , crucified , and raised again : indeed the greatest part of Divine History was there written and acted . And if we should as well compare her to the rest , in that earthly glory of Kingdoms , Empires and Nations , which sounds fairest to mans sense , she would still keep her rank . For was not the first Monarchs and Monarchies of the World in Assyria , Persia , Babylonia , Media ? Did not the first People of the World receive their Being in Mesopotamia ? And had not the several Tongues of the World their original in Babylonia ? These are parts of Asia , and were in the first Ages blest with Gods own holy pre●ence , Exod. 3. and the footing of Angels , Exod. 14. however now it is left ( for her infidelity ) to the punishment of a Prophetical curse that long before past upon her , and is delivered up into the hands of T●rks and Nations that blaspheme their Creator ; and therefore doth not ●ourish in that height as heretofore . Consider that Gods hand is now upon her , and the rest will follow without much wonder . ( 2 ) In respect of both Europe and Africa , it is situated Eastward . But if we compare it to the Aequator it lieth almost wholly in the N●rthern Henisphere : I need except none of the main Continent , only a few Islands , which are as it were , retainers to Asia , and lie partly Southward beyond the Line . It is divided on the West from Europe 〈◊〉 the River Tanais , Pontus Euxinus , and part of the Mediterraneum Sea. From Africa by that 〈◊〉 which divides the Red-Sea from the Mediterraneum , and is above 72 miles long . On the other three sides , it is begirt with the vast Ocean , which in the East is called Pontus River , on the North , Mare Scithicum , the Tartarean Sea , and in the South the Indian Sea. Through the middle runs the Mount Taurus at full length , with the whole Continent of Asia , and divides it toward the North and South into Asiam Exteriorem and Interiorem , with so many windings , that the length is reckoned by G●adus to be 58060 stadia , by Maginus 45000 stadia , and that is 5625 Italian miles , those of our own Nation account it 6250 English miles ▪ The breadth ( as Strabo reports it ) is in most places 3000 stadia , as our own Geographers 375 miles . From the North-shore cometh the Mountain Imaus , directly South almost , and divideth it toward the East and West into Scythia intra Imaum , and Scythia extra Imaum . By these bounds the length is set to be 5200 and the breadth 4560 miles . ( 3 ) Now add together , that this Region was at fi●st the Paradise of the World , and indeed still enjoyeth a fertile Soil and temperate Air , and that it exceeds in compass the two other parts of the old World , to which she was the Mistre●s for Arts and Sciences : yet is not at this day so well peopled in proportion , as this little Europe , which came after many hundred years . For this we need search no farther cause than Gods just anger : 〈…〉 he not exercised upon her , only by miraculous and immediate punishment from Heaven : but hath ●uffered ( as it were ) her own creatures , over which at first Man had the rule , to turn head upon ●heir Lords , and possess their habitation : For it is so over-run with Wild Beasts , and cruel Serpents , that in 〈◊〉 places they live not without much danger . ( 4 ) In this though the Nation suffer for their monstrous irreligion , yet the Earth , which did not offend , reserves her place , and abounds with many excellent Commodities , not elsewhere to be had , Myrrhe , Frankincense , Cinnamon ●loves , Nutmeg , Mace , Pepper , Musk , Iewels of great esteem , and Minerals of all sorts : it breeds Elephants , Camels , and many other Beasts , Serpents , Fowls wild and ●ame , and some have added such monstrous shapes of men , as pass all belief . ( 5 ) And thus from the general view of Asia , we will glance upon her several Regions , Kingdo●s , and Provinces , as it hath been heretofore divided . In this we find difference of Authors , that follow their several placita , all perhaps true enough in their own sense , though not alike , if they be compared . These we will not so much as name , but insist upon one that may best fit my short Description . Her parts are Asia the less , and Asia the greater , and the Islands near about . ( 6 ) Asia the less is that that lieth next to Europe , and began East-ward from thence ; it was called by the Geographers there residing by a special name Anat●lia ( corruptly Natolia ) 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , On the west therefore and toward the North is Greece : full West is the Archipelagius ▪ on the East is the River Euphrates ; on the North the Pontus Euxinus , and on the South the Mediterraneum . It is included betwixt the Meridians of the 51 degree of Longitude , and the 72. so Maginus : and in the Latitude it is ●eated almost betwixt the same parallels with Italy . ( 7 ) A Countrey it was once of singular fertility , exceeding rich in fruits and pasture auratisque omnibus , and indeed all things else that either mans necessity , commodity , or pleasure could requite . It was mother to many of our learned Ancients . The Dorica , Ionica , and Aeoli●a Dialects of the Greek Tongue had here their Originals . It was the Seat of the Trojane Kingdom , and many other Nations famous in Histories , as well Christians as Ethnicks , though now there remains no face of so excellent a Region , Cyrus first began the spoil : then the Macedonians and Alexanders Captains : 〈◊〉 them the Romans : and last of all the Turks miserably rent in pieces , and have left the ruines to shew of four thousand Towns and Cities , The residue have lost both their names and memory of their Predecessors . And the people are fallen from the Knowledge , Industry , and Religion of their Fore-fathers ▪ For before Christ , when they were at worst that Histories report of them , they were for the most 〈◊〉 learned , and laborious in ordering of their Soil to the best advantage . Afterward they became good Christians , for with them were the seven Churches which Saint Iohn mentioneth in the Apocalyps ▪ Now scarce is it inhabited but toward the Sea-side ; and that by a base and abject people , such as are both lazy in their life , and odious Idolaters in their Religions . For the most part Mahumetans . ( 8 ) Let my first division of this Asia the Less , be into two Regions ; of these one hath the particular appellation of Asia propria , and contains the several Regions of ( 1 ) Caria , ( 2 ) Ionia , ( 3 ) Doris , ( 4 ) Aeolis Phrygia , ( 5 ) Lydia , ( 6 ) Minor , ( 7 ) and Major . The other hath no one name as I find among Geographers , but is known by her Provinces of ( 1 ) Cilicia ; ( 2 ) Pamphilia , ( 3 ) Lycia , ( 4 ) Bythynia , ( 5 ) Pontus , ( 6 ) Paphlagonia , ( 7 ) Galatia , ( 8 ) Cappadocia , ( 9 ) Lycaonia , ( 10 ) Pisidia , and ( 11 ) Armenia minor . ( 9 ) Asia propria was the scene of many noble actions much celebrated among our Historians . First , in Caria stood the City Mindum , upon which Diogenes brake his Iest , That the Citizens should take heed lest it run out at her Gates And Halicarnassus the birth place of Dyonisius and Herodotus : and of this was Artemisia Queen , that erected the miraculus Monument in honour of her Husband Mausolus . The second Province is Ionia ▪ and here stood Miletum , where Paul made his Oration to the Elders of Ephesus ; and here Ephesus it self , the Star of Asia , that as well for her Religion as her miraculous Temple , set the World at a gaze upon her . It was raised in the middle of the City , modelled out by Ctesiphon , but was 220 years in building ; and was ordered in such a ground , that no Earth-quake should move it : it was 425 foot long , and 220 broad , and had an hundred twenty seven Pillars , given by so many several Kings ( saith Vadianus ) whereof twenty seven were most curiously graven , all the rest of Marble polished . In this City Saint Iohn the Evangelist is said to have gone down into his Grave alive : there be who yet question his Death : and Irenaeus reports that he lived in Trajans time . This with the third and fourth Provinces of Doris and Aeolis , were only accounted Greeks : the other Nations of Asia were called Barbarians . ( 5 ) Lydia was the fifth named in our Division ; and in her are many Cities , which we have mentioned in Scripture , and are common among other Writers . Of these the chief are Laodicea , Thyatira , Philadelphia , Sardis , where Croesus kept his Court , and Pergamus the Seat of Attalus , that made the Romans his Heir , and where Galen the great Physician was born , and lived 140 years . ( 6 ) The first was phrygia minor ; it is called Troas by the Inhabitants , and those are now Greeks , Turks , and Arabians ; heretofore they were the antient Trojans , that gave Homer his subject for his admired Poem . Here is that Adramittium named in the Acts. and Trajanopolis : and the Mount Tmolus , that sends down a River into Lydia with abundance of Gold and Silver . And lastly , the Mount Ada , famous for the judgment of Paris past upon the three Goddess●s . ( 7 ) The last was Phrygia major ; and on this was Gordion , the very Town where Gordius hampered his Plow-tacklings in such a knot that none might unty , but he that should possess the Monarchy of the World ; and indeed it proved true enough in Alexander the Great . Another was Midaium , where Midas son to this Gordius turned all to Gold with a Touch. A third Coloss , the place of the Colossians to whom Saint Paul directs an Epistle . And all these were contained within the compass of that one part which bears the name of Asia propria . ( 10 ) The other Provinces of Asia minor have their Stories worth the Memory . ( 1 ) The first was Cilicia now called Garamania ; whose People in times past were noted for grand Pirats , till overcome by Pompey , and when by force they were turned honest , they gained the repute of a warlike Nation , especially in Sea-fights . So Lucan , Itque Cilix justâ non jam pirata Carinà . It was a rich Province to Rome when Cicero was Proconsul : and still it is full of pleasant places : but withal hath many wild and waste grounds , that are no mans peculiar : but who will , may there freely feed his Goats , which afford them good commodities , as well by their milk as their hair , of which are made most curious Chamlets . In this Province was Tarsus , the City of Saint Paul , and Nicopolis , a●d Pompeiopolis and Alexandria ▪ ( 2 ) The second Pampbilia . The People were once called Soli ▪ and used a rude kind of Idiom , from whence the very word Solaecismus , and here was Perga , Sida , and Attalia , Sea Towns mentioned in the Acts. ( 3 ) The third was Lycia , a fruitful Country in the Plains , and was heretofore of great fame . The Metropolis was Patara Saint Nicholas his birth-place , and where sometimes Apollo's answers were returned . ( 4 ) Pontus and Bythinia were the fourth and fifth , though once severed , yet afterward they made but one Province , and was governed by Mithridates that first found out the Medicine that bares his name . He had many years war with Rome , but at last with much adoe was overcome . Her Cities were Chalcedon , the place of the fourth General Counsel , and Nice of the first , as also Nicomedia , Apamia , &c. ( 6 ) The sixth Paphlagon●a , and from hence had the Venetians their original , and were at first called Heneti , but being driven out by sedition , they followed Anten●● into Italy , and there it seems changed a letter of their name . ( 7 ) Galatia the seventh : and to the Inhabitants Saint Paul directed one of his Epistles . It was the seat of King Deiotarus , Client to Cycero as appears by an Oration in his behalf . In this Province were many Iews disper●ed after the Passion ; the chief Cities are Iuliopolis and Ancyra , where a Synod hererofore was held , called Synod Ancyrana . ( 8 ) The eigth Capadocia , heretofore Leucosyria . Here is the City Amasia , which receiveth the Turks eldest Son after their circumcision , till their Father's ( the Emperor's ) death . And here Mazaca , where St. Basil lived , that first gave himself to a Monastical life : and the flourishing City of Trepizand , heretofore a Seat Imperial . ( 9 ) Ninethly , Lycaonia . In the South of this Region is the Hill C●imaera , that gives occasion to a Poetical Fiction of a Monster , with a Lions head , a Goats body ▪ and tail of a Serpent : for so on the top of this Hill were Lions , in the middle Goats , and in the valley Serpents . Bellerophou ●id it , and first made it habitable : and thence this Fable . Here was Iconium and Lystra where Timothy w●s born , and Paul and Barnabas adored as Gods. ( 10 ) Pisidia was famous for the Cities of Antiochia and Lysinia ( 11 ) Lastly , Armenia Minor is by most thought to be the Land of Ararat , where the Ark rested : And there is great store of Oyl and excellent Wine . ( 11 ) Hitherto our Tract hath been of Asia the less , or Anatolia . It resteth that we proceed to Asia Major , which lieth remote from Europe toward the East . And of this we can make no large description in so small a scantling : we will only mark cut the Provinces , and refer my Reader to more particular Relations in our several Maps that contain the Turkish Empire , Tartaria , Persia , and China , all Kingdoms of Asia the great . The parts , as for the present we will divide it , are these , ( 1 ) Syria , ( 2 ) Palestina , ( 3 ) Armenia Major , ( 4 ) Arabia triplex , ( 5 ) Media , ( 6 ) Assyria , ( 7 ) Mesopotamia , ( 8 ) Persia , ( 9 ) Chaldea , ( 10 ) Parthia , ( 11 ) Hircania , ( 12 ) Tartaria , ( 13 ) Chin , ( 14 ) India . ( 12 ) Syria is the first , and hath in it the Provinces of Phaenicia , Caelosyria , and Syrophaenicia . In Phaenicia was Tyre , and Sydon , Sarepta , and Ptolemais , where two Kings of England have laid their Siege , Richard , and Edward the first . In C●losyria stands Hieropolis and Dam●scus , Aleppo , Tripolis , &c. The second Palestina , which Ptolomy reckons into Syria . It is in length 200 miles , in breadth not above 50. It contained the Provinces of Samaria , Idumaea , Iudea , where Ierusalem was , and not far thence Bethlehem ; Galilaea , both the higher called Galilaea Gentium , and the lower : and in this was Nazareth , and Mount Tabor , where Christ was transfigured . ( 3 ) The third is Armenia Major , or Turkomania . In this was Colchus , whence Iason fetcht his golden 〈◊〉 : now it is inhabited by Turks . ( 4 ) Arabia is the fourth , and that had three parts , Arabia deserta , where the Children of Israel were fed with Manna forty years . Arabia petrosa , where mount Sinai was , and the law given . The last Arabia felix , counted the fruitfullest Countrey in the world . In this Arabia is the City Medina , where Mahomet is intombed in an iron Chest , supported only by a roof of Adamant , without other Art ●o keep it from falling to the ground . ( 5 ) The fifth Media , it was once a large Empire , and one of the first . The fruits of the Countrey are said to be alwayes green . ( 6 ) The sixth Assyria , a very pleasant and temperate Countrey : and here was the City Ninive● , whither Ionas was sent . ( 7 ) The seventh Mesopotamia , in whose lower part Chaldae● stood , as our latest Writers affirm , and Babylonia . ( 8 ) The eighth Persia , a mighty Empire governed by a Sophy The people are Mahumetans , vet differ somewhat from the Turks . Their Language passeth currant through the whole Eastern world . The Metriopolitane is Persepolis ( 9 ) The ninth Chaldaea , often mentioned in the Scripture ; and here was the fifth Sybil , called Erythraea , that prophesied of Christ. ( 10 ) The tenth Parthia , a Province of note for its continual hostility with Rome , and excellent Archery : for the Inhabitants used their Bow with as much dexterity in their retreat as in the Battle ; and by that means oftentimes won advantage upon the enemy by their slight . ( 11 ) Hircania the eleventh , an illustrious Country , and hath many Cities of note , abounds with Wine and Honey . ( 12 ) Tartaria , called heretofore Scythia , the Inhabitants Scythians , and before that Mag●zins , from Magog , the son of Iapheth , that first Inhabited these parts . It was once possessed by the Amazons , a Nation of women ; after their dissolution came the Scythians , among whom Tomyris is ennobled by Iustine for her victory over Cyrus . Upon them came the Goths , and those were driven out by the Tartars which began their Empire 1187. so Maginus . It is a large Countrey , and the people stout . They have no Cities nor Houses , but live in Tents by troops , which they call herds . Their Prince is named Cham , and obeyed with great reverence . ( 13 ) The thirteenth is China , by Ptolomy , Sinarum Regio : it hath in it 240 Cities of note . In this Region is Quinsay , the greatest City in the world . It hath on the North a wall of 100 miles in length . ( 14 ) The last is India , and the largest portion of earth that passeth under one name . Strabo writes that there were 50000 Towns quorum nullum Cominus fuit . In the middle runneth the River Ganges , and divides it into India intra Gangem , the part that lieth toward the West , and India extra Gangem , which is the part toward the East . The Scripture calleth it Havilah . This Region hath very many precious Commodities , Medicinal drugs , and Merchandise of great estimation . The chief place is Goa , where the Viceroy of Portugal resides , and with a Councel of the King of Spain , exercises a power over all these quarters . ( 13 ) The Islands of Asia , at they are of less account than the Main , so they must be content with a shorter Surve● . We will rank them into the same order with the Continent . ( 14 ) The first are of Asia the less , and lie more West-ward toward Europe . They only worth note are two , Rhodes , and Cyprus . ( 1 ) First Rhodes is in the Sea over against Caria In the chief City of this Isle stood the Colossus in the form of a man , erected in a kind of Religion to the Sun , that once a day at least breaks out upon the Isle , howsoever cloudy it be in other places . Graeians heretofore possest it ; and when the Christians had lost the Holy Land , the Emperour of Constantinople gave this Isle to the Knights of Saint Iohn in Ierusalem , in the year 1308. But now the Inhabitants are most Turks , and some Iews sent thither out of Spain . As for Christians , they may not stay in the City in the night time . ( 2 ) The second is Cyprus , a place heretofore consecrated to Venus , to whom both men and women peformed their sacrifice naked , till by the prayer of Barnabas the Apostle the Temple was ruined . Trogus reports , that the fathers of this Isle were wont to prostitute their Daughters to Mariners for money , whereby to raise them a portion against they could get them husbands : but Christianity corrected those barbarous Customs . In time it was made a Roman Province , and in the division of the Empire was assigned to the Emperor of Constantinople . So it continued till Richard the first of England , in his voyage put into this place for fresh water : but being incensed by the discourteous usage of the Cyprians , turned his intent into an invasion , took the King prisoner , and bound him in silver fetters . Afterwards he sold it to the Templers for a time , but recovered it again , and exchanged it for the title of Ierusalem . ( 15 ) Lastly , the Islands of Asia the great lie most in the Indian or Eastern Ocean , and indeed are innumerable , but the chief of account are these ; Ormus , Zeilan , Summatra , Avirae Insulae , Bocuro , Iava , Major and Minor , Iapan , and Moluccoes , and the Philippian Isles . The first is Ormus , exceeding barren , and yet of it self a kingdom , and full of Trade . ( 2 ) Zeilan so happy in pleasant ●ruits , that some have thought it was the place of Paradise . ( 3 ) Summatra lying directly rectl● under the Aequator , the Inhabitants are 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ( 4 ) And so are the Inhabitants of the Avirae Insulae that lie West from Summatra . ( 5 ) Bocuro , so large an Isle , that the compass is said to be three months sail . ( 6 ) Iava major called by Scaliger , the Compendium of the world . The Inhabitants feed on Rats and Mice : it yields much Spice . ( 7 ) And so doth Iava Min●r . ( 8 ) Iapan aboundeth so with Gold that the Kings Palace was covered with it in the time of Paulus Ven●tus . They enter not into their Dining Room with their shooes on ( 9 ) The Mol●ccoes are ●●ve , and abound much with all sorts of Spices . In these is said to be the Bird of Paradise that flieth continually , having no ●eet to rest upon : The Hen layeth her eggs ( if you will believe it ) in a hole of the Cocks back . ( 10 ) Last'y , the Phillippian ●sles that lie North of the Molucc●●s are 1100. as Maginus numbers them . They were discover●d in the time of Philip the ●econd of Spain , and from him took their name , 1564. They abound with Spices , and part of the Inhabitants have entertained Christianity . ( 16 ) And thus I have made a brief dispatch both of the Continent and Islands of either Asia , and have given my Reader a hint ( at least ) of their stories , which he may find at large in their several Authors . AFRICA Petrus Kaerius caelavit map of Africa The Description of AFRICA . AFrica , as it lay nearest the seat of the first people , so questionless it was next inhabited : and therefore requires the second place in our Division . It is generally agreed upon , that the North parts were possest by the sons of Cham not long after the confu●ion . And so indeed that Kingly Prophet in the 78 Psalm , useth the tents of Cham for the Land of Egypt , which is that part of Africa which joyns upon the South west of Asia , and is divided from the Holy Land but by a small Isthmus . Give the people their own asking , and they will have the glory of the first Inhabitants of the world : and prove it too both from the temperature of their air , and fertility of their soil , which breeds and nourisheth not only Plants and fruits , but sends forth , of its own vertue , living creatures in such sort , as amazeth the beholder . We have a report ( if you will belive it ) that in a ground neer the River Nilus , there have been found Mice half made up , and Nature taken in the very nick , when she had already wrought life in the fore-parts , head and breast , the hinder joynts yet remaining in the form of earth . Thus I suppose they would have man at first grown out of their soil , without the immediate hand of God in his Creation . And it hath been the opinion of some vain Philosophers , that for this cause have made the Eihiopians to be the first people : for that there the Sun by his propinquity , wrought soonest upon the moisture of the ground , and made it fit for mortality to sprout in . ( 2 ) But to leave these , without doubt Africa is of great antiquity , and so is allowed by all Historians of credit : In the year 1566 the people were increased to an exceeding multitude ; and therefore were enforced to enlarge their bounds , upon their neighbouring Countries . For as it was of a most rare fertility ; so it lay not any long way , and had free access to it by land from the garden of our first Parents . ( 3 ) In the time of Abraham we have better assurance from the Word of God , that it was then a place of ●ame , and the Inhabitants of some growth , for they were able to supply the wants of the Countries adjoyning by their store : and thither went Abraham out of the Land of Canaan , to avoid the great famine , Gen. 12. She had then her Princes , Pharaoh and his mighty men , that feared not to resist God , and were afterward made the instruments of his punishments upon the children of Israel : for they kept them in bondage four hundred years , as was foretold to Abraham in the 15 of Genesis . ( 4 ) But this proof of Ancientry concerns not the whole Country : only those Regions which lie under the temperate Zone . The rest for a long time after were unknown to our Geographers , held not habitable , indeed , beyond mount Atlas , by reason of the extream heat . The reports which pass of it before Ptolomy's time were but at random , and by guess of such as had never ●ailed it round , or scarce come within sight of it , but at a great distance , and by this means , either out of their own errour , or else a desire of glory more than they had deserved : or perhaps a Travellers trick , to cheat the ignorant world that could not confute their reports , they spread many idle fables of monstro●s people without heads , with their eyes and mouths in their breasts , maintained to this day by some Authors of good esteem . But for my part I hold it most reasonable to credit Saint Augustine , who was born and died in Africa . That he in his eighth Book De Civitate Dei , acknowledgeth no such creatures ; or if they be , they be not men , or if men , not born of Adam . And our later Discoveries joyn in with him , that report not ( upon their own ▪ experience ) of any other people than such as our selves are : and yet I suppose they have seen more of the Country than ever any heretofore did . For they pass not now to sail it round once a year , by the Cape of good hope to the East-side of the very Ist●inus toward the Red-Sea . ( 5 ) This course by the South was discovered by one Vasco de Gama , in the year 1497. and a way found to the East Indies , by which the Princes of Portugal receive an infinite gain , both in Spices and other Merchandise . The hope of which first set them upon the Adventure . And in this one thing we owe much to our own Countrey , otherwise a detestable plague , that the in●atiate desire of wanton commodi●ies hath opened to us a large part of the world befo●● not known , and which we hope may hereafter increase the light of the Gospel , and the number of the Elect. ( 6 ) If we compare her to the two other portions of the same Hemisphere , she is situated wholly South , and in part West-ward . It is divided on the North from Europe by the Mediterran●um Sea : On the South , where it runs into a kind of point at the C●pe of good Hope , it is bound with the vast Ocean , which in that part hath the name of the Athiopick Sea : on the East with the Red Sea , and on the West with the Atlantick Ocean , called there in our common Maps , Mare del North. So that in breif we reckon both her Longitude and Latitude in the largest parts to be near upon 4200. English miles . ( 7 ) Not withstanding this vast extent of ground , yet we of Europe still keep our own , and by authority of the most and best Geographers , exceed as much for number , as either this or Asia do for room . Cause enough there is why Africa indeed should come short of bo●h : for in most parts she hath scarce plenty sufficient to maintain Inhabitants , and where there is , we shall meet with multitudes of ravening Beasts , or other horrible Monsters , enough to devour both it and us . In a word , there is no Region of the world so great an enemy to mans commerce : there is such scarcity of water , that no creature almost could live , had not nature provided thereafter ; that the grea●er part of them endures not drink in the very midst of Summer . So Pliny reports . And if , as sometimes they be inforced by such as take them , they suddenly perish . Thus we see how God gives a property to each place , that may make up her defects , lest it should be left as well by beasts as men . Their Land is full of sandy deserts w●ich ●e open to the winds and storms , and ofttimes are thrown up into Billows like waves of the Sea , and indeed are no less dangerous . Straho writes that Cambyses his Army was thus hazarded in Ae●hiopia . And Herodotus , that the Psilli , an ancient but foolish Nation ( it seem● ) in Africa , as they marched toward the South , to revenge themselves upon the winds for drying up their Rivers , were over-whelmed with sand , and so died in their graves . Besides these annoyances , it is so full of a venomous kind of Serpent , that in some places they dare not dress their Land , unless they first sence their legs with Boots against the sting . Other wild creatures there are which range about , and possess to themselves a great portion of this Country , and make a Wilderness of Lions , Leopards , Elephants , and in some places Crocodiles , Hyenaes , Basilisks , and indeed Monsters without either number or name . Afr●ca now every year produceth some strange creature before not heard of , peradventure not extant . For so Pl●ny thi●ks that for want of water , creatures of all kinds at some times of the year gather to those few Rivers that are , to quench their thirst : And then the Males promiscuously enforcing the Females of every Species which comes next him , produceth this variety of forms ; and would be a grace to Af●ica , were it not so full of danger to the Inhabitants , which , as Salus●t reports , die more by Beasts than by diseases , And those Tracts about Barbary are every tenth year , 15 or 25 , visited with a great plague , and continually infected with the French disease , in such violence , that few recover , unless by change of Air into Numidia , or the Land of Negro●s , whose very temper is said to be a proper Antid●te against those diseases . ( 8 ) But among all these inconveniences , commodities are found of good worth ; and the very evils yield at last their benefit , both to their own Country and other Parts of the world . The Elephant , a docible creature and exceeding useful for Battel : The Camel , which affords much riches to the Arabian : The Bar●ary Horse , which we our selves commend : the Ram , that besides his flesh gives twenty pound of wool from his very tail : The Bull , painful , and able to do best service in their tillage . And so most of their worst , alive or dead , yield us their medicinal parts , which the World could not well want . ( 9 ) In her division we will follow our later Masters in this Art , whom time at least and experience , if no other worth , have made more authentick , and those divide it into seven parts . ( 1 ) Barbary or Mauritania . ( 2 ) Numidia . ( 3 ) Lybia or Africa p●opria . ( 4 ) Nigritarum Terra . ( 5 ) Aethiopia superior . ( 6 ) Aethiopia inferior . ( 7 ) Aegypt : and to these we add the ( 8 ) Islands belonging to Africa . ( 10 ) Barbary is the first . The bounds of it are Northward the Mediterraneum , Westward the Atlantick : On the South the Mountain Atlas , and on the East Aegypt . It is estee●ed the most noble part of all Africa : and hath its name from an Arabick word Barbara , that signifies a kind of rude sound , for such the Arabians took their language to be : and thence the Grecians call them Barbarians that speak a ha●sher language than themselves . Aft●r the Latines , and now we , esteem the people of our own Nation barbarous , if they ever so little differ from the rudeness either of our Tongue or Mann●rs . The Inhabitants are noted to be faithful in their course : but yet crafty in promising , and per forming too : for they are covetous , ambitious , jealous of their Wives beyond measure . Their Country yields , Oranges , Dates , Olives , ●igs , and a certain kind of Goat , whose hair makes a Stuff as fir● as S●●k . It contains in it the Kingdoms of ●unnis , Algeires , ●esse , and Morocho ▪ ( 1 ) Tunnis , is famous for several places mentioned of old . Here was Dona where Augustine was B●shop ▪ and Hippo his birth-place . And Tunnis a City five miles in compass , and old Carthage built by Virgils Dido , Romes am●la for wealth , valour , and ambition of the universal Empire . It was twenty two miles in c●rcuit : And Vtica , memorable for Cato's death . ( 2 ) Algeires contains in it a strange harbour for the Turkish Pirats ; and is of note for the resistance it made Charls the Fifth ; who received before the chief Towns in this Region an innumerable loss of Ships , Horses , O●dnance and Men. ( 3 ) Eesse hath a City in it with seven hundred Churches , and one of them a m●le and half in coni●ass ( Stafford ) : And in this Country was our English Stukely slain . ( 4 ) Morocho , where the chief Town of the same name hath a Church larger than that of ●ess● , and hath a Tower so high that you may discern from the top of the hills of Azasi at an hundred and thiry miles distance . Here is likewise a Castle of great same , for their Globes of pure gold that stand upon the top of it , and weighing 130000 Barbary Duckets . ( 11 ) Numidia was the second part in our division of Africa , and hath on the West the Atlantick , on the East Egypt , on the North Atlas , and the Deserts of Lybia on the South . It is called likewise Regio Dactylifera , from the abundance of Dates ; for they feed upon them only ; and people , Idolaters , Ideots , Thieves , Murderers , except some few Arabians that are mingled among them of ingenious disposition , and addicted much to Poetry . They seldome stay longer in one place than the eating down of the grass : and this wandering course makes but few Cities , and those in some places three hundred miles distant . ( 12 ) Lybia , the third , is limited on the East with Nilus , Westward with the Atlantick , on the No●th with Numidia , and the South with Terra Nigritarum . It was called Sarra , as much as Desert : For so it is , and a dry one too , such as can afford no water to a Traveller sometimes in seven days Iourney . The Inhabitants are much like to the Numidians , live without any Law almost of Nature . Yet in this place were two of the Sibyls , which prophesied of Christ , and Arrius the Heretick . About Lybia were the Garamantes , and the Psilli mentioned before for their simple attempts against the South-wind . ( 13 ) Terra Nigritarum , the Land of Negroes is the fourth , and hath on the West the Atlantick , on the East Aethiopia superior , on the North Lybia , on the South Kingdom of Manilong● in the inferi●r Aethiopia . It hath the Name either from the colour of the people , which are black , or from the River Niger , famous as Nilus almost , for her over-flowing , insomuch that they pass at some times in Boats through the whole Country . It is full of Gold and Silver , and other Commodities ▪ but the Inhabitants most barbarous . They draw their Original form Ch●s , and have er●ertained all Religions that came in their way . First their own , then the Iews , the Mahometans , and some of them the Christian. For the most part they live not as if Reason guided their actions . Maginus numbers twenty five Provinces of this Country , which have had their several Governours . Now it knoweth but four Kings ▪ and those are ( 1 ) The King of Tombulum , and he is an infinite rich Monarch , hates a Iew to the death of his Subject that converseth with him : keeps a Guard of three thousand Horsemen besides Foot. ( 2 ) Of Bornaum , where the people have no proper Names , no Wives peculiar , and therefore no Children which they call their own . ( 3 ) Of Gonga , who hath no estate but from his Subjects as he spends it . ( 4 ) Gualatum , a poor Country , God wot , not worth either Gentry of Laws , or indeed the name of a Kingdom . ( 14 ) Aethiopia Superior the fifth , and is called likewise the Kingdom of the Abyssines . It is limited on the North with Aegypt , on the South with the Montes Lunae , on the East with the Red-Sea , and on the West with the Kingdom of the Nigers and Manilongo . It is distinct from the Aethiopia so often mentioned in Scripture ; For by all probability that was in another quarter of the world , and teacheth from the Red-Sea to the Persian Gulf. It is governed by one of the mightiest Emperors in the world : For his power reacheth almost to each Tropick , and is called by us Presbyter Iohn . He is the only white man amongst them , and draws his Line from Solomon , and the Queen of the South . His Court rests not long in one place , but his moving as well for Housing as Retinue . For it consists of Tents only to the number of six thousand , and incompasseth in , about twelve or thirteen miles . He hath under him seventy Kings , which have their several Laws and Customes : Among these the Province of Dobas hath one , that no man marry till he hath killed twelve Christians . The Inhabitants of the whole Region are generally base and idle : the better sort have the modesty to attire themselves though it be but in Lyons and Tygers skins , Their Religion is mixt . Christians they have , but yet differ from us ; For they circumcise both Sects . Their Oath is by the life of their King , whom they never see but at Christmas , Easter , and Holy Rood . Their Commodities are Oranges , Lemmons , Citrons , Barley , Sugar , Honey , &c. ( 15 ) Aethiopia inferior the sixth part of Africa , is on every side begirt with Sea , except toward the North ; that way it is severed form the Abissines by the Montes Lunae . The government of this Region is under five free Kings , ( 1 ) of Aiana , which contains in it two petty Kingdoms of Adel and Adia , and abounds with Flesh , Honey , Wax , Gold , Ivory , Corn , very large Sheep . ( 2 ) Zanguebar , in this stands Mesambique , called by Ptolomy , Prassum Promontorium , and was the utmost part South ward of the old world . The Inhabitants are practised much in South-saying , indeed Witch ▪ craft . ( 3 ) Of Monomol●pa , in which is reported to be three thousand Mines of Gold. Here there lives a kind of Amazons as valiant as men . Their King is served in great pomp , and hath a guard of two hundred Mastives . ( 4 ) Cafraia , whose people live in the Woods without Laws like brutes . And here stands the Cape of good Hope . about which the Sea is always rough and dangerous : It hath been especially so to the Spaniard . It is their own note ; in so much ; that one was very angry with God , that he suffered the English Hereticks to pass so easily over , and not give his good Catholikes the like speed . ( 5 ) Manicongo , whose Inhabitants are in some parts Christians , but in other By-Provinces Anthropophagi , and have shambles of mans flesh , as we have for meat . They kill their own children in the birth , to avoid the trouble of breeding them , and preserve their Nation with stoln brats from their nighbouring Countries . ( 16 ) Aegypt is the seventh and last part of the African Continent , which deserves a larger Tract than we can here afford it : But for the present be content with brief Survey ; and satisfie your self more particularly in the many several Authours that write her story . It hath on the East the Red Sea Barbary on the West : on the North , the Mediterraneum , and Aethiopia Superior on the South , It was first possest by Cham , and therefore called Chemia● in their own antique Stories : Or at least by Mitzraim his Grand-child , and is so agreed upon by most . For plenty it was called Orbis h●rr●um , yet it had very seldom any rain , but that defect was supplied by the River Nilus : The places of note are , Caire and Alexandria . The first was heretofore Memphis . Some say Babylon , whither the Virgin 〈◊〉 to escape Herods tyranny intended to our Saviour : and blush not to shew the very Cave where ●he had hid her Babe . In a desert about four miles distant stand the Pyramids , esteemed rightly one of the seven wonders of the world . Al●zandria was a mangnificent City , and the place where Ptolomy took his Observations , and was famous for the rarest Library in the world . To the Inhabitants of this Country we owe the invention of Astrology , Physick , writing on Paper . Their Kings names were Pharaoh toward the beginning , now what the Turks pleaseth . ( 17 ) And this is as far as we may travel by Land : it remains that we lose out into the bordering Sea , and descry what Islands we can , neer those parts of Africa which we have here mentioned . And these lie either South-ward in the Aethi●●pick Sea , or else West-ward in the Atlantick Ocean . ( 18 ) The Aethiopick Islands are only two . ( 1 ) The Islands of S. Lawrence of Madagascar , four thousand miles in compass , and the length more than Italy , rich in all Commodities almost that man can use . The Inhabitants are very barbarous , most of them black , some white there are , supposed to have been transplanted out of China . ( 2 ) Zocratina at the mouth of the Red-Sea , in length sixty , in breadth ●wenty five miles . It lieth open to sharp winds , and by that means is extream dry and barren . Yet it hath good Drugs , and form hence comes the Alo● Zocratina . The people are Christians and adore the Cross most superstititously , and give themselves much to Inchantments . ( 19 ) The Atlantick Islands are ( 1 ) S. Thomas Island , and lyeth directly under the Aequator , it was made habitable by the Portugals , which found it nothing but a Wood. It is full of Sugar , little ●ther Commodities , ( 2 ) Prince . Island , between the Aequator and Tropick of Capricorn : It is rich ●nough for the owner , though I find no great report of it , ( 3 ) The Gorgades , of old the Gorgoss , where Medusa and her two fisters dwelt ; I forbear the fable , they are nine in number , and because neer to Cape Virid● , in the Land of Negroes , the have a second name of Insulae Capitis Viridis . They abound with Goats ; and the chief of them is called Saint Iames. ( 4 ) The Canaries called for their fertility , The Fortunate IsIands , and was the place of the first Meridian , with the ancient Geographers , to divide the world into the East and West , and from thence the to measure earths Longitude : but now it is removed into the next Islands more North , which are the Azores , and belong properly to Europe as lying neerer Spain than any other Continent . The number of the Canaries are seven . The chief Canary , next Palus , where our Ships touch to refresh themselves in their voyage toward ●merica . Then Tanariffa , which hath no water but from a cloud , that hangs over a tree , and at noon dissolves , and so is conveyed into several parts . The other four are Gomera Hieior , Lansarat , and Fu●rl● ventura , some few other not worth note or name . The men lend their Wives like Horses or any other Commodity . ( 5 ) Lastly , the H●sperides , not far from the Gorgad●s , they are often mentioned by our ancient Poets in the fable of Atlas his Daughters . It was supposed to be their seat of their blessed , which they called the Elizian field . And indeed it is a very happy soyl , the weather continually fair , the seasons all temperate , the air never extream . To conclude , Africa affords not a sweeter place to rest in . EUROPA P. Kaerius Caelavit . map of Europe The Description of EUROPE . EVROPE may perhaps think her self much injured to be thus cast back into the third place of my Division , and reckoned the last of the old World : but my promise shall be here made good to give her her due . And though Chronology will not allow the precedency : yet compare her present estate with the rest , and you may take her rank here to be ad Pompam : as most commonly in our solemn Triumphs , those of most worth are ●●arshalled forth last ▪ Yet were she so minded to quarrel for Antiquity , she should not want abettors , such as would have some parts of Europe flourish within thirty years after the con●usion of Tongues . The original of the German● Kingdom is drawn by Aventinus Helcrus , and others , form Tuisc● , the son of Noah , and he began his Reign in the year 1787. after the Creation , and that was but one hundred thirty one years after the Deluge , not above thirty from the time that they were dispersed out of Babel . But to pass by those uncertain s●ories which may admit dispute , we have to this day the Germane Triers , a City standing from the time of Abraham , and bears as yet the marks both of the Art and ambition of the Babyl●nians . As if here they strove to reach eternity , as they did before in the plain of Shinar to top Heaven . ( 2 ) Sure I am , what ever part of the world was first famous , Europe soon got the start , and took the Scepter of the earth into her hand , she had the name with Pliny of Orbis domitorum genitrix : and well she might , if we but read her story , since first she came in view : In the Greek Monarchy Alexander was her Champion . In the Latine Empire the Romans bare the sway , and scarce left a corner of the earth then known unconquered . And to this day the Princes of Eur●pe enlarge their D ominions upon the Regions of the other three . A small portion as we are of this little Isle , in respect of their vast Continent , yet have we a part too in America for our peculiar , and hope still to bring more into our prossessions that we may bring them unto Christ. ( 3 ) In respect of the two other quarters in the Eastern Hemisphere , Europe is partly West , and partly North , for she is situated North-ward , betwixt the Tropick of Cancer and the Polar Artick : and Westward hath no Continent betwixt her and America , but is bounded with the Atlantick Ocean . On the East toward Asia , she hath the Mare Aegeum , which the Italians call Archipelagus , and the Pontus Euxinus , or Mare Magor . And the Palus Meoris and the River Tanais . South-ward it hath the Mediterraneum and Fretum Herculeum ; So that it is almost encompast with the Seas , and hath the form of a Peninsula , whose Isthmus that joyns it ot the rest of the Continent is to be reckoned that part , which lyeth betwixt the branches of the River Tanais , and the Mare Glaciale : These are her out bounds ( 4 ) If we view her within we shall find that Nature has not spent her store , nor was she close handed when she allotted her portion . And though Europe indeed be the least , yet is she furnished in all points with the like variety : her Rivers as commodious as those of Asia and Africa , and her Mountains no less famous than Taurus or Atlas . Her measure indeed is not comparable to any of the other three : She bears in Longitude but 3800. miles from S. Vincent in Portugal to Constantinople . And in Latitude at most 1200. and that too from the Aegean to the frozen Sea , by some account not above 900. ( 5 ) But by her extent ( as it is ) small ; it adds to her glory , that in exiguo res numerosa jacet : that yet sheexceeds those vaster Regions , and bears the name of the most happy Country in the world , both for plenty of Corn , Plants , Fruits , for Rivers and Fountains of admirable vertues , for beauty as well of Cities , Castles , and Horses , as men and women of excellent feature . For the study of Arts , for sincerity in Religion , and what-ever else God hath pleased to bless his Church with from the beginning . ( 6 ) She wants nothing but what she may well spare ; wild beasts , which cause Deserts in the parts where they breed : hot Spices , which fit not our temper : and rather corrupt our manners , than mend our diet : precious Iewels , and the like , which have brought in a degree of vain and useless pride , not known before by our Predecessors ; yet too of gold , silver , and other commodious Metals she hath her portion . And in brief is of a very prosperous temper , yet of so strange variety , that it is admirable to think that there is no place in this quarter , but is fit for any man to live in . Insomuch as every corner is inhabited , as is confirmed by our later Travellers : though heretofore it hath been questioned by reason of the extream cold toward the Pole. This in general . ( 7 ) In her division , we will begin from her Western parts , that lye towards the first Meridian of Longitude , and so on till we come to her Eastern limits , which joyn her to Asia . The order is , ( 1 ) Spain ( 2 ) France . ( 3 ) Belgia . ( 4 ) Germany . ( 5 ) Italy . ( 6 ) Denmark . ( 7 ) Hungary . ( 8 ) Polonia . ( 9 ) Sclavonia . ( 10 ) Greece . ( 11 ) Dacia . ( 12 ) Norwegia . ( 13 ) Suevia . ( 14 ) Muscovia . ( 8 ) Every least Region of Europe merits a peculiar description at large , and shall in its turn partake of my pains , such as it is . In the mean time I will here instruct my Reader in the general knowledge of each , and direct him principally to their situation , that he may with ease find their propinquity and distance in respect of each other , which cannot be so aptly exprest in their several Maps ; nor so easily scanned as in this , which presents to his eye all at one view . ( 9 ) Spain is the first and the amplest Region of Europe , for in breadth in numbreth 10000 stadia . saith Appianus , and little less ( as it seemeth ) in length . The compass is reckoned by us to be 1890 English miles . It is begirt on every side with Seas , unless on the Eastern , and there it is joyned to France by a kind of Isthmus , when the Pyrenaean Mountains cross from one Sea to the other , and set the limits to both Kingdoms . On the West it is bounded with the Atlantick Ocean , on the North with the Cantabrick , and on the South with the Fretum Herculeum : South East with the Mediterraneum Till within this 800 years it continued mangled and broken by many turns of Fortune . Since it hath felt variety enough , now it is wholly subject to one Monarch , though it yet carry the name of three Kingdoms , Aragou , Castile , and Portugal . The Land yields all sorts of Wines , Sugar , Fruits , Grain , Oyls , Metals , especially Gold and Silver . It is fertile enough for the Inhabitants . For indeed they are not many , nor have they so great Cities as there are in other Regions in Europe . Besides , the conditions of those for the most part are base : The meanest proud , the best superstitious and hypocrites : most of them lascivious . Give them their own , they are good Souldiers , not so much for their valour in performing , as patience to endure labours , hunger , thirst , and by this means oft-times , weary out an enemy rather than Conquer him . ( 10 ) France the second Region of Europe , beginneth from the West at the Pyrenean Mountains , and is bounded on the East with Germany : on the North with our English Seas , and South-ward with the Mediterraneum , South East with the Alpes , which divide it from Italy . It was once tributary to Rome , as most of these parts besides , and had its division into Provinces as they pleased . Now the chief are Loraign , Burgundy , Savoy , and these have their free Princes ; the rest are Norway , Brittany , Berry , Aquitane , Picardy , Poictou , Languedock , Anjow , Gascoin , Province , Compagne , and many more . The Country is very fruitful , and calls her neighbouring Nations to her for Traffique . Their special Commodities are , Wine , Corn , and Salt. Well peopled , and hath very many illustrious Cities . But the Inhabitants are naturally light in their carriage , almost Counter-point to the Spaniard : yet of great ●ame , both in learning and wars . Commended by all strangers for compleat Courtship . ( 11 ) Belgia hath France on the South , on the North Denmark , on the East Germany , and the main Ocean on the West : It is known best with us by the Name of Low Countreys or Netherlands . The compass of it is about a thousand miles . It is divided into 17 Provinces . And of these four are Dukedoms , seven Earldoms , five Baronies , and one Marqueship . The Dukedoms are ( 1 ) Brabant , and in this is Antwerp ( 2 ) Luick ( 3 ) Lutzenburg , here stands the vast Forrest of Ardeuna . ( 4 ) Gelderland . The Earldom● ( 1 ) Flanders . ( 2 ) Artois . ( 3 ) Hainalt . ( 4 ) Holland . ( 5 ) Zealand . ( 6 ) Zutphen . ( 7 ) and Hamme . The Baronies ( 1 ) Friezland . ( 2 ) Vtreck ( 3 ) Mechlin . ( 4 ) Overissell . ( 5 ) Groueling . The Marqueship is that of the holy Empire . The Land is good , and affordeth great store of Butter , Cheese , and breeds Oxen of incredible bigness and weight . The people too are very industrious and excellent Mechanicks . The men commonly are of a goodly Porrtaiture : yet of more fame for their wars than their volour ; but are forced to maintain their liberty by the Sword : good Sea-men indeed , and in that they bear some sway . Their Governours are called the States of the Low Conntries . The General of their Forces is the Prince of Orange . ( 12 ) Germany lyeth East-ward from Belgia , and on her own East is bounded with Hungary and Polonia , and the River Vistula , and the North with the Germane Ocean , and on the South with the Alpes that divide her from Italy . In the middle is situated the Kingdome of Bohemia , compassed with the Sylva Hircinia ; and in this stands Prague , where the Emperour commonly keeps his Court. And comprehends many Provinces of note : Saxony , Brandenberge , Pomerania , Bavaria Silesia , Franconia , Austria , Helvetia , East-Friezland , Westphalia , Cleveland , Alsatia , Brunswick , and Hassia . It hath now the name of the Empire , as once Rome had , but it comes far short of her in glory . The right to it descends : not by succession , but by choice of six Electors , Arch-Bishops of Triers , Mentes , and Cullen Count Palatine of Rhene , Duke of Saxony , and Marquess Brandenb●●g . In case of equality , the King of Bohemia hath a suffrage which carries it . It is a rich Country , in Corn , Wine , Fruits , Mines , and hath in it healthfull Bathes . The people warlike and ingenious for the invention of many useful implements . ( 13 ) Italy hath Germany on the North , divided by the Alpes , on the South the Mediterraneum , on the East the Adriatique Sea , and on the West , Mare Tyrrhenum . In length it is 1010 miles , and in the broadest place 420. It was once intirely one . Now it is divided into many States and Provinces . The chief are , the Kingdom of Naples , the Territory of Rome , Lumbardy , Tuscain , the Seignory of V●nice , Verona , and others of great fame . For indeed the whole Country is of admirable fertility , and called by good Authors , The Paradise of the earth . The Inhabitants grave and frugal : yet hot and lascivious . ( 14 ) Denmark is joyned to Germany on the South , and on the West hath the Mare Germanicum , and so almost is invironed with Sea , and is a Peninsula . In the Continent are two Provinces of note Irglant and Holsten . The other are petty Islands for the most part . The chief Zealand and Loiland ▪ The Country breedeth goodly Horses and store of Cattel . The people are good Souldiers , and subject to one King. ( 15 ) Hungaria hath part of Germany on the West , on the East the River Tibiscus and Walachia , on the North with Poland , and on the South with the River Saure , South West with Sclavonia . The great Danubius cuts her in the middle , and names her parts Citerior and Vlterior . The chief Provinces are ( 1 ) The Country of Soliense : where the earth sends forth such a ftench , that it poysoneth the very Birds which fly over it . ( 2 ) An Island in Danubius exceeding fertile . And so indeed is the whole Country . The people are generally strong , but shew the Ancientry to be of the Scythians by their barbarous manner , and neglect of learning . Their daughters portion are only a new attire : and their Sons equally inherit without priviledge of birth-right . The Emperour of Germany and the Turk share it betwixt them . ( 16 ) Polonia and Silesia , a Province of Germany on the West , on the East the River Boristhenes or Neiper : on the North the Baltick Sea , and Hungary on the South . It is in compass 2600 miles . The chief Provinces which belong at least to Poland are Liv●nia , Lituania , Volinia , Samogiiia , Podolia , ●ussianigra , Mazoria , Prussia , Podlassia . The Dukedomes of Optwittes , and Zotor , Polonia propria . The Land abounds with Honey , Wax , Mines of Copper and Iron ; It breeds store of Horses fit for service . Their Religion is promiscuous , of all kinds , from the true worship to the very Atheist , which acknowledgeth no God ; yet they are governed by one King , which doth not succeed , but is chosen by the Nobles . ( 17 ) Sclavonia hath Hungary on the North , on the South the Adriatick S●a , Greece on the South-East , and on the West part of Italy . It is in length 480 miles , in breadth , 120. The people were called Sclavi , and were by Conquest of the Venetians made their drudges : It is now divided into Illyricum , Dalmatia , Croatia . The mother tongue of this Nation is used through many Countries , both of Europe and Asia ▪ part of it belongs to the government of Hugary : some to the Turk ; some to the Austrians , and a portion to the Venetian State. ( 18 ) Greece i● limited on the West with the Adriatick Sea : on the East with the Aegean , Hellespont Propontis . North-ward with the Mountain Haemus , and South-ward with the Mediterraneum . It was once the seat of the worlds Empire , and flourisheth far beyond all other in every kind of humane learning , which to this day is received by all civil Nations as their rule . It was one of the first among the Gentiles that received the faith of Christ , and bred many Fathers of our Church , St. Chrysostome , Basill , St. Gregory , and others . But the Inhabitants are now curbed and kept low , as well in knowledge , as estate , by the tyranny of the Turk Their women are well favoured , but not fair . The common division is into these Regions , Peloponesus , Achaia , Epirus , Albania , Macedonia , Migdonia , Thracia ; They afford us Gold , Silver , Copras , Colours , Wines , Velvet , Stuffs , &c. ( 19 ) Dacia on the West hath Hungary on the East the Euxine Seas , on the South Greece , on the North Sarmatia , from which it is divided by the Carpathian Mountains . It was heretofore Misia , and was by Domitius parted into Misia superior and inferior . Now the chief Regions are Transilvania , Moldavia Walachia , Servia , Rasia , Bulgaria , Bosuia . ( 20 ) Norwegia or Norway , describes her situation in her very name , which signifieth in the German tongue , no other than North-way : for so it is in respect of the rest of Europe : and encompassed almost round with Sea. The length is 1300 miles . The breadth about 600. The people were once valiant , and spread their Conquest in most palces of Europe : Among the rest England hath her share , and was forced to submit to Duke William , and Ireland to Tancud . But now themselves are under a foraign government of the King of Denmark , and live simply enough : possess little worth the commending except honesty . Theft is counted the greatest sin among them . Yet they have Cables , Masts , Fuirs good store , and Stock-fish ▪ which the poor eat in stead of bread . The Metropolitan City is Nidrosio ; besides this , there is not above two of eminent note . Bergla one of the Mart Towns of Christendom , and Asloia a Bishops-See . On the North and West stands the populous Province of Frimark . ( 21 ) Suevia or Sweden , is on the East of Norway , divided from it with the Dofrine Mountains . On the North and South it is bounded with Seas : at the East end it is joyned to Muscovia , by reason of their neighbour-hood , they partake much in their dispositions with the Norwegians . Their Country is fertile , and in some Provinces hath very great plenty of Corn , Furts , Mines of Gold and Silver , Copper , Lead , and other excellent Commodities , from which they take their name , For the first is Gotland , as much as good land . The second Finland , quasi Fineland . The rest are Bodia , Serick-firmia , Lapland , and others . The Inhabitants live to a great age , of 140. and are much given to Witchcraft . ( 22 ) Muscovia is the last Region of Europe towards the East , and indeed stands a good part in Asia . It is bounded on the West with Livonia , and some part of Swevia , on the East with Tartary , on the North with the frozen Seas , and South-ward with Lituania . The length of it is 3000 miles , the breadth 3065. It is likewise known by the name of Russia alba . The most parts of it are extream cold : but Nature for the help of the Inhabitants hath lined it with rich Furrs , Sables , Martins , white Fox , and he like : and hath furnished it with other Commodities , Corn , Fruits , and Cattel . The whole Region is subject to the Emperour of Russia . A vast Territory , and as wild a government . For the people are very base , contentious , ignorant , and sottishly superstitious . They bury their dead upright , with a slaff in his hand , a pen●y in his purse , and a Letter to St. Nicholas to procure him entrance into heaven . There are many Provinces of note . The chief are ( 1 ) Muscovia , where Mosco stands , the prime City and seat of the Emperonr . ( 2 ) Permia , where they eat Stags-flesh instead of bread . ( 3 ) Rhesan , so full of Corn that Horses cannot tread it down , not a quail pass through it . But for this I am not very urgent to enforce belief upon my Reader . Others there are which have their stories of as much wonder , and as little credit . But I must not pass too far this way , lest I a little trespass upon anothers possession . I have already set footing into Asia : Give me leave to recover my self into my proper bounds , and I will set you a brief description of the Islands which are reckoned as the appendices to Europe . ( 23 ) The West in the Atlantick are Cronland , Groviland , Island , Freizland . These lie nearest to the Artick , and are extream cold , but send forth good store of Fish. The next rank is in the British Seas : Ireland , Great Britain , with her train , the O●cades , Hebrides , Silly Islands , Man , Anglesey , Iarsie , Garnsey , Wight . Let not the rest envy , if I here as I pass , do a due homage to our own , and salute her Queen of European Seas : She is a parcel of earth culled out from the rest , which for her portionable distance from the Torrid and frized Zones , enjoyeth so sweet a temper , that neither our Summer heat need compel us to the shade , nor our Winter cold invite us to the fire ; so Maginus . And indeed our lines are fallen into pleasant places , we have a fair inheritance : others you shall find of less regard in the German Seas , and those which divide Norway and Sweden , from Germany and Poland . More toward Spain are situated the Azores , 9 in number . Of these one called Faiall is with us of greatest note , for our noble Sir Walter Raleighes victory over the Spaniard , 1597. ( 24 ) The Southern Islands of Europe lye about the Mediterraneum . The first rank are ( 1 ) Baleares near unto Spain . ( 2 ) Carsica . ( 3 ) Sardinia , over against Italy where it parts from France . ( 4 ) Sicily , famous for the Gulf Charybdis , which answers to the Rock Scylla on Italy side , and for the shipwrecks which oftimes they enforce , have made up the fiction of the Sea Monsters mentioned in our ancient Poets . ( 5 ) Malta the seat of the illustrious Knights . The second Classis is of those in the Adriatick and Ionium Seas . In Ptolomy I find situated on the North-East of Italy , Absorrus , Curicta , Scardona , Insulae Di●media , Issa , Targurium , Pharia , Corcyra , Melitum . More South toward the Mediterraneum , Corcyra , Ericusa , Cephalenia , Ithaca , the Country of Vlysses , Echinades Insulae , Zacynthus , the Strophades , Cythera , And just as it were in the mouth of the Aegeum , now called Candia , an Isle of 520 miles circuit , and feigned by the arcient Poets to be the birth-place of Iupiter . It abounds with Cypres Trees , and a las●ivious Wine which we call Malmsey . ( 25 ) The last on the Southern Islands in the Aegean Sea , which indeed are not easie to be numbred : but the chief are Meles , Chias , Bria , the Cyclades , Sporades , Delos , Tenos , Icaria , Samos , Andros , Eubia , a very large Island , Scyros , Lesbos , Lemnos , Samothracia , and Mytikne , whose chiefe Town Methymia offers it self to the confines of Afi● . And now we are not many miles distant from Troas . You see we want Sea-room to travel further ▪ If you desire to have an ex●ct review of the particulars , you must allow each almost a several voyage . Let it suffice for the present , that when your desire serves to make further search into other Authors , your passage is here discovered to your hand . AMERICA Petrus Kaerinus Caelav . Anno D o 1646 map of America The Description of AMERICA . AMERICA must yeild her self to the last place of my Division . She is stiled commonly the New World in respect of what was known in Ptol●my's time . And this name imports glory enough that she singly can equallize the title of World , and a larger World than can be made up by the other three , if we reckon in the Territories not yet fully discovered , and therefore indeed deserve not each to it self a several Description . ( 2 ) And since the hath enough upon due right to prefer her worth , there will be no need of that counterfeit gloze of ancientry , which many pretend in the search of her original . Some there are that upon their own bare conjecture pronounce her as old as the story of our Antipodes : others as Solomons Voyage for Gold into the Land of Ophir . In brief , my line will reach but 132 years backward , to the time of Christopher Columbus a Genoay : before him I read of none that durst arrogate to himself any certain knowledge of those parts , unless a br●gging Spaniard without a name or note of description . There are a sort of ungreatful ones , that commonly debase them most that deserve of them best : and judge it a thing worthy their hate , to be out gone in any fair action , though it redound to their own profit . Pardon my zeal to truth ; it warms my stile against those Robbers , in the behalf of so honourable a man : They are no petty theeves that would steal from one his immortality ; as what less could he deserve , that gave us the knowledge of another world , and laid the way open for the entrance of the Gospel , to the saving ( as we hope ) many millions of souls ? ( 3 ) His lights were little besides his own projecting wit , excellent skill in Astronomy and Navigation ; by which he fully perswads himself of some lands that must needs lie in that portion of circle , which should make up the World into a Globe , and withal saw , there could be no distemper either of heat or cold , that could make it less habitable or fruitful , than those places of the old world , which lay under the same Climates , and had the like respect to the Heavens . These indeed were good rational perswasions , but the difficulty would have daunted a mean spirit , and dasht not the action only , but the very thought . His resolution was confirmed , and his purpose well digested to himself in the year 1486 and put into practise about six years after . ( 4 ) When the gap was once opened many rushed in , and in a short space discovered a large Territory Americus Vesputius got ground upon the Continent , and gave it that name . Ferdinande Magellanus found out the South-sea-limits , and first attempted the compass of the world that way . Our own Heroick , Sir Francis Drake , Noble Candish , track'd him in his Discoveries , and added of their own . North-ward Furbisher and Davis put fair for a passage round from the East-side of the Continent ; from the West Willougbby and Burroughs . ( 5 ) Let their several endeavours give you the parts of her division : The Regions contained in this Western Hemisphere , under the name of the New World or America , in the largest sense are four ( 1 ) America propria , ( 2 ) The Islands . ( 3 ) Terra Septentrionalis incognita . ( 4 ) T●rra Australis incognita or Terra Magellanica . ( 6 ) America propria , with her Islands are the first , and were first discovered : She is divided from the old world by the Atlantick Ocean on her East , and on her West , with the pacifique Sea , or Mare del Znr North ; and South she hath the Terrae incognitae , and so possesseth to her self almost the whole Hemisphere . What lyeth beyond her toward each Pole from the Aequator appears as yet but as wastle groud in our Maps : for the experience of our Travellers have not reached so far , as to search fully into the Commodities of the Countries ; or nature of their Inhabitants , yet questionless there are many and may hereafter yi●ld as much profit as any other . ( 7 ) Of the quality of this Region in general we can speak but little . For by reason of her length and breadth , she lyeth at such several distance in respect of the Heavens , that she admits indeed all variety almost either of plenty or want , which we have hitherto found in Asia , Africa , or Europe . Here admirable for the fertility of soly ; then again as barren : here temperate , their scorching hot , elsewhere as extream cold . Some Regions watered with dainty Rivers , others again infested with perpetual drouth . Some Plains , some Hills : some Woods , some Mines ; and what not in some tract or other within the compass of America ? Yet nothing almost common to the whole but Barbarisme of manners , Idolatry in Religion , and sottish ignorance , such as hardly distinguisheth them from brutes ; else they would not have taken reasonable men to be immortal Gods as at first they did : yet what either God was , or immortality , they knew no more than instinct of nature gave them , only a confused thought they had of some place or other ( God knows where ) behind some Hill , where the blessed after their death . And from thence they supposed the Spaniards came at their first arrival . But it was not long before the Tyrants cudgelled their simplicity , and by their cruelty appeared to them rather Devils from hell , than Saints from Heaven . ( 8 ) Yet still the In lund Countries retain for the most part their in-bred blindness : and worship the Sun , Moon , and Stars , and they have their other Spirits , which they call their Zemes , and adore them in Images made of Cotton-wooll , which oft-times by the delusion of Satan seem to move , and utter an hideous noise , that works in these poor Idolaters a great awe , lesst they should harm them . ( 9 ) The rest of their Customes are answerable to their Religion , beastly . They go naked , and are very lustful people without distinction of sex . In many places they are Anthropophagi , and prey upon each other like Wolves . They labour not much to sustain themselves : but are rather content to take what the earth can yield without Tillage . This in general . ( 10 ) Time hath not given way to many divisions of this America . I find one only in the best Authors : and that it seems nature marked out to their hands ; For she hath severed the Continent into two Peninsulae ; The one lieth North-ward from the Aequinoctial , and is called Mexicana , The other for the most part South-ward toward the Magellanick Straits , and is called Peruviana . Each of them are subdivided into their Provinces . ( 11 ) Mexicana is the first , and her bounds on the East and West are the Atlantick Ocean , and Mare del Zur . By the first it is severed from Europe : and by the last from the Regions of China and Tartaria in Asia and is distant not above 250 miles , if we measure the passage at the shortest cut . On the South it hath the Peninsula Peruviana : and North-ward we are not sure whether Sea or Land. It comprehends in compass 13000 miles . The quality of the Inhabitants , and the riches of her soyl shall appear in her several Provinces , which are numbred thus : ( 1 ) Nova Hispania or Mexicana propria . ( 2 ) Quivira . ( 3 ) Nicarugua , ( 4 ) Iacutan . ( 5 ) Florida . ( 6 ) Virginia . ( 7 ) Norumbega . ( 8 ) Nova Francia . ( 9 ) Terra laboratoris or Corterilalis . ( 10 ) Estot●landia . ( 12 ) Nova Hispania , or Mexicana propria , is the largest Province of this North part of America , and gave the name Mexiacana to the whole Peninsula , which her self received from her chief City Mexico . Her bounds South-ward is the Isthmus that joyns the Continents . North-ward the same with the Peninsulaes ; on the West Califormia or Mar Viriniglio , and on the East Incutan . It was first possest by the Spaniard 1518. But it cost them much bloud to intitle their Kings Hispaniarum Reges . It is an excellent Country , full of all variety almost in every kind usual with us ; and exceeds in rarities full of wonder . There is one tree which they dress like our Vine , and order it so , that it yields them almost all useful necess●ries . The leaves serve them instead of Paper , and of the Vine ●ark they make Flax , Mantles , Mats , Shoes , Girdles , and Cordage : She hath in her four principal Regions of note : ( 1 ) Nova Galicia , found out by Nunnus Gusmannus 1530. Her Cities are Compostella , now a Bishops See , Sancte Espritte , and Guadalaiara . The inhabitants lived at large heretofore without any government . But since the Spaniard came , they have endured incredible servitude , and cruelty . ( 2 ) Mechnacan a fertile Region , the Inhabitants comely and witty . Her chief Cities , Sinsonse the place of their native Kings ▪ Pascuar and Valudolit , the Bishops See. ( 3 ) Mexico or Tomistian , which contains in it the City of Mexico , in compass six miles , the seat of an Arch-Duke : and the Spanish Viceroy : and in it is an University , a Printing-house , and a Mint for coynage . Other Cities there are , Tescuvo and Angelorum Civitby . ( 4 ) Ganstecan lying open on the East near Mare del Nort. It is but barren , and the people poor , but cunning . The Spaniards have here two Colonies , Panuce and S. Iames in the vallies . ( 13 ) Quivira bordereth upon the West of the Continent towards Tartary : It is temperate and fertile . But the chief riches is the Kine , which feed them with their flesh , and cloath them with their Hides . Her Provinces are Cibola and Nova Albion . The last was discovered by our noble Sir Francis Drake , and voluntarily yieded to the protection of our admired Queen of England Elizabeth . ( 14 ) Nicarugua on the South-east of Nova Hispania , had a kind of setled Common wealth before they knew Christianity , and is reported to have a tree that withereth at a mans touch . The chief Cities are now Granado , and Leo a Bishops See. ( 15 ) Incutan is situated over against the Isle Cuba upon the East of the Peninsula , The people adored the Cross before they heard of Christ. The Country is indifferent fertile : though that indeed as in all other places of this new World , have proved worse for the Inhabitants ; for it hath drawn upon them their forraign Invadour . ( 16 ) Florida lyeth near the Gulf of Mexico , and bordereth upon the Mare del Nort. A pleasant Region it is , and was discovered by our English under Sebastian Cuhbot 1497. out left for the Spaniard to posses , which for a while he did : and after him the French , but neither in quiet . For they warred upon each other , till they left neither of them men enough to hold it . The French built the City called Ara Corobina . The Spanish Est Hevens , and S. Matthews , and planted there three Forts , Saint Iames , Saint Philip , Saint Augustine , which was burnt by Sir Francis Drake 1586. but recovered again , ( 17 ) Virginia carries in her name the happy memory of our Elizabeth , On the East it hath Mare del Nort , on the North Norumbega , Florida , on the South , and Westward , the bounds are not set . It was first entred by Sir Walter Raleigh 1584. and some at that time left there to discover the Country till more were sent , but they perished before the second supply . Since there have been many Colonies planted out of England , which have there manured the ground , and returened good Commodities to the Adventurers . For indeed it is a rich Country , in Fruits Trees , Beasts , Fish , Fowle , Mines of Iron and Copper , Viens of Pitch , Allum and Tar , R●zin , Gums , Dies , Timber , &c. The Plantation went on with good success till the year 1622. And then by the treachery of the Inhabitants there were murdered near upon three hundred of our men . The Natives are very vile people , horrible Idolaters , adore the creature which they most fear , and hate them which keep them not in awe : they were kindly entreated by our English , and invited by all friendly means to Christianity . The North parts are most inhabited by our men , and is therefore called New E●gland . It hath but one entrance by Sea at a fair Bay. Her Capes are called Cape Henry , and Cope Charls . The chief Towns are Ianus Town , Regnoughton , and Balesguift . ( 18 ) Norumbega on the North of Virgi●ia , lyeth toward the Mare del Nort , and is a very fertile Region . It is inhabited by the Spanish and French. The Seas are shallow , and endanger many ships . So full of Fish , that the Boats cannot have free passage , saith Maginus . ( 19 ) Nova Francia is further North-ward from Norumbega : a barren Country , and the people barbarous ; some Anthropophagi . A few French there are besides the Natives . ( 20 ) Terra Laboratoris or Conterialis , still more North-ward upon the Sea-coast , and is divided from Norumbega by the River Lanada . It reacheth into the Sea in form of a P●niusula . The men are barbarous , live in Caves , run swiftly , and are good Archers . The chief places are Bresto , Cabo , Marzo , and South Maria. ( 21 ) Estotiland the last Province of the Northern Peninsula , still creeps by the edge of the Atlantick : and on the North hath the Straits called Fretum Daveissii an English man , who this way attempted the North-west unto Cathai and China . And in regard it was adventured in the name of our Queen , the Promontory is called Elizabeths Fore-land : and the Sea running by it is likewise named Forbishers Straights , from another of our worthy Country-men , that were interested before in the same service . This Region is held to be the first discovered of the New world . The North of it is still unknown . It yields plenty of gold , but is exteam cold . The people ingenious and good Artificers in most kinds , they are cloathed with Beasts Hides ; and are skilled to make themselves Boats of Sea Calves skins , which they venture into the main Sea without danger . ( 22 ) Peninsula Peruviana , is the South tract of America from the Isthmus to the Magellanick Straights . The same Seas are the bounds upon the East and West , which were of the other Mexicana , by which she is divided from Africa on the East , and on the West at a large distance from the most Southren Islands of Asia . The compass of it is 17000 miles . From North to South , there runs a continued course of high Mountains , whose tops the very Fowls of the air cannot reach by flight . And from thence descend many admirable Rivers , among which Maragno and Argenteus are most famous . The one for his extent , and the other for his plenty of silver . The Country is exceeding rich , but the people differ not much from the worst of Beasts . They devour mans flesh , filthy worms , and what else comes in their way . The chief Provinces are numbred thus ; ( 1 ) Castella Aurea . ( 2 ) Guiana . ( 3 ) Peru. ( 4 ) Brasil . ( 5 ) Chile . ( 23 ) Castella Auren is the first , named from her plenty of gold . She lieth part in the Isthmus . The ●est is the Northern tract of Peru : ( 1 ) Castella del oro in the very Isthmus , which is by some measured to be seventeen miles in breadth , by others twelve , the Merchandise sent from Spain is unladen at Nombre de Dios , and conveyed cross the Isthmus by land to Panamais : from thence shipped again for the North-west of Peru : Near these parts was an admirable atchievement performed by our valiant Country-man Iohn Oxenham , who by the direction of Moors skilled in the Country , went to the Land of Pearls , and took from the Spaniards an incredible weight of gold and Silver . ( 2 ) Nova Andalusia South-ward from Castella del oro . The chief Towns are Tocoio and Sancta Espritia . ( 3 ) Nova Granata a rich Region with Mines of gold and silver , part of it lyeth under the Aequinoctial . And this is S. Foy , one of the Arch-Bishops Sees . ( 4 ) Carthagena a fruitful Country , which yielded ( when time was ) to out still renowned Sir Francis Drake , store of prize , and 240 pieces of Ordnace . ( 24 ) Guiana is the second Province of the Peninsula Peru Maria , situated just under the Aequinoctial . On the North it hath the main River Oronoque or Raliana from Sir Walter Raleigh , who went further than any before him into the Country . This River is navigable by report above 1000 miles , On the South it hath likewise another great River of the Peninsula called Maragnon , which exceeds the former , and is navigable 600 miles in length . In this province stands the largest City of America called el Dorodo , or the guilded City : For indeed there is plenty of gold . The length , as it is spoken by some Travellers , will exceed belief . The second memorable Town is S. Thome : not so much for her own worth , as the disastrous fortunes of Sir Walter Raleigh , who there first lost his eldest son , and after returned home with that ill success , as it cost him his own life . ( 25 ) Peru the third in rank , yet by name it seems to be the chiefest Province of this Southern Tract . It is contained almost betwixt the Aequator and the Tropick of Capricorn . On the North it hath Castella del oro . on the South Chila , on the West mare del Zur , and on the East the Mountains of Peru. It is a very rich Country , aboundeth with gold and silver , little esteemed among the Inhabitants . For by report the Spaniard ordinarily shooed their Horses with gold : Another great Commodity is Tobacco , a toy to play withall , but yields a great Revenue to the King of Spain . In this Province stands Lima the Arch-Bishops See , and place of residency for the Vicer●y Cusco , where the Native Kings of Peru had wont to keep their Court. The Inhabitants are strange Idolaters , and worship a black Sheep , Serpents , and other ugly creatures . ( 26 ) Brasile on the North hath the great River Maragnon . and on the South and West Argenteus , on the East Mare del North. The ●ongitude from North to South is accounted 150 , the breadth 500 , the compass about 3000. The Inhabitants are rude , live for the most part in the Bodies of trees . They swim excellently , and are able to keep under the water for a long space . Their chief Commodities are Sugar and Brazile wood . The people are covered with natural hair , cruel , lascivious , false , and what not ? In this Region is an herb , called Viva , which if you touch , it will shut up , as a Dasie in the night , and will not open till the party that injured it be out of sight . Here are few Towns of note , St. Anna , Equitum , Ascensio , Pernanbuco . ( 27 ) Chile is the last of the Peninsula , and on the North hath Peru , on the West the Mare del Zur , on the South the Magellanick Straits , on the East the Virginian Ocean , She hath her name from her extream cold temper , in so much that many are frozen to death , and hardned like marble . It is a rich Country as well for Gold as other Commodities of worth . The Rivers are fed with Snow that falls from the tops of high Mountains . The people are of large stature , and very valiant . The chief City is St. Iames , where a Colony of Spaniards keep hold . And thus we are travelled from the Basis to the very Pyris , at the South America . The utmost poynt of it is called Caput victoriae from Magellanus ship . The rest must be performed by Sea. Our best Cour●e will be from the East Atlantick Ocean round by the Magellanick Straits into the Pacifick Sea. For within this compass lyeth all the Islands that belong to this new world , and those were my second part in the general division of the whole Hemisphere . ( 28 ) The Islands of America in the Atlantick Ocean are , ( 1 ) Margarita not far from Castella delor● It is very barren in provision for victuals , but exceeds in plenty of precious stones of the greatest value : And so doth her neighbour . ( 2 ) Aubagna . ( 3 ) Trinidado stored with Tobacco . ( 4 ) Bacala●● over against Terra Laboratoris . ( 5 ) Boriqu●n North-ward from Guiana ; Her principal Cities are S. Iolas and Port Rico , ruined by our Earl of Cumberland 1597. ( 6 ) Iamaica , spoiled by the Spaniards cruelty of most of her Natives : Insomuch that the mothers strangled their babes in their womb to prevent their servitude under so hard a Master as the Spanish Governour . ( 7 ) Laba a rich Isle : In this there is a Bishops See called Ingo . ( 8 ) Lucaiae insulae in number a 130. and is best commended for the beauty of her women . ( 9 ) Barmudae , many in number ; discovered by Sir Thomas Summers , and thence have the name of Summers Islands , possest by a Plantation of English , and agreeth well with their temper . ( 10 ) Hispaniola or Haitie , the first that was described by Columbus in the beginning of his attempt : An excellent Island for temper of air , fertility of soil , rich Mines , Amber , Sugar , and Roots medicinal . One of the chief Towns in D●mingo , ransackt by Sir Francis Drake 1585. The rest are S. Isabella , S. Thome , S. Iolius , &c. ( 11 ) There are a rank of Islands neer the Basis of the South America , that are called Insulae Car●lum or Canibalorum , part of them are Canibals and wild people ; yet they yield Commodities , especially the Guia●um or lignum Sanctum . ( 26 ) The Islands of America on the West in the Pacisick Sea are not many of much account . ( 1 ) The chief is Califormia , an Island of about 500 leagues from the North Cape , Mendocina to the South S. Lucas , which enters a little within the Tropick of Cancer . ( 2 ) Insulae Salemonis , supposed by some to be the Land of Ophir . ( 3 ) Insulae L●tronum , named from the Natives theft , who stole Magellanus Coch-boat when he first entred in . Ελλας GREECE Petrus Kaerius Caelav . map of Greece The Description of GRAECIA . GReece is divided from Italy but by a short cut of the Adriatick Sea. Each is so placed in Contra-view of the other , as if she were ordered to over-look her neighbours actions . And so indeed there that been continually a mutual emulation betwixt the two flourishing Nations , which have either in turns possest , or at once divided the Empire of our Christian world . ( 2 ) However now she lieth dejected , and groans under a miserable servitude : yet once she had as well the preheminence of Rome in glory , as the precedence in time . For to say truth , she was the wisest of any people , that were not enlightned with the knowledge of that great mystery : she set a patteren for government to all her succeeding ages ; and ( in brief ) she was the mistrest almost of all Sciences ▪ some there are which ( in a strict accompt ) will except none but the Mathematiques : And yet too ( though those without doubt owet●eir Being to the Chaldeans and Aegyptians , ) sure I am that even in them , she bred some of the most famous Artists that ever the World had , Euclid● may be my proof . In Philosophy S●crates , Plato , and our great Aristole . In Oratory Demosthemes , Aeschines and Isocrates . In Historiography Xenophon , Theucidides , Plutarch and Herodotus . In Poesie Hesiod , Homer Sophocles , and Aristophanes . In State policy the wisest , Solon of Athe●s , and Lycurgus of Lac●demoni● ; In Military affairs Themis●ocles , Miltiades , and the great Alexander , and infinite others , which had all past their times , and Greece almost sunk in her luster , before the name of Rome was heard of almost in her Territories . ( 3 ) She was at first but a small parcel of this quarter , till by her prowess she grew on upon her neighbouring Countries , and enlarged her Dominions through all M●cedonia , Pelopon●esus , Epirus , th● Aegean Islands , and Thrace : and besides sent forth Colonies into other parts , as well of Asia and Africa ▪ as of Europe , whereof some retain the Greek names to this day . Her self enjoyed the liberty for a long time which the first Inhabitants took to themselves , and felt not the burden of a tributary Nation , till the time of the Persian Cyrus . He first brought her under : After him Xerxes , and other of the Kings of Persia ; which held it till it was recovered by Phillip King of Macedonia ; and from him it fell to Alexander the great , who first took up his Greek Monarchy : and at his death in the division delivered this with the rest to his successours in the Kingdome of Macedonia : and so it continued until their last Perseus , in whose time it fell into the power of the Romans . ( 4 ) But when that Empire too had its fate to be severed by Constantine the great into the East and West , the Greeks again put in for a part : and were for a time Rulers of the East , till they were successively over-run by the Goths , Bulgarians , Saracens and Turks , under whom to this day , the poor wretches suff●r continual persecution for the name of Christ ; and a●e scarce permitted by that great tyrant , means of learning to know the Names for which they suffer . ( 5 ) This Region was first called Helles , from Hello the son of Dencalion and Pyrrha , and in after times took the name of Graecia , from Graecus the son of Cecrops , and King then of that part only which was called Attica : For then there were many States , which were ordered by their peculiar Princes : But when once they were joyned into a Monarchy , the whole retained the name of that part which was accounted most famous : and the Inhabitants in their stories generally called Graecians , though sometimes by the like synecdoche , Ach●i , Achevi , Argivi , Danai , Dolopes , Dores , Dryopes , Hellenes , Iones , Myrusidones and Pelasgi . ( 6 ) The bounds of Greece have been severally set , as her government hath been either enlarged by her own valour , or impaired by a foraign enemy . But as she is now taken by Geographers , her mark on the East is the Aegean Sea : on the West the Adriatick , which severs her from Italy ; on the North the mountain Hanus , which is reported ( though falsly ) to be of such heighth , that from the top a man may descry Seas four several ways : and on the South the Meditertaneum Ionium Seas . ( 7 ) The Region thus limited was once as fertile , pleasant and rich , as any part of the whole Continent : And by reason of her plenteous Rivers , and commodious access for ships , from almost all Coasts , she could want no means to export her own overplu● , or import forraign merchandise from all parts of the known world : If at this day it appears not in that lustre , no marvel . Barbarus has segetes ? Impius hac tam culta nevalia miles habebat . ( 8 ) And besides the base misusage of the mis-believing Turk , the very Natives themselves are fallen from the noble disposition of their Predecessors into an incredible sottishness : and those which before reckoned the rest of the earth Barbarous in comparision to their polite Common-wealth , are now themselves sunk below the envy of the meanest Nation , and become the most miserable object of pity living upon the earth . Indeed they may hardly be said to live , for that they take no farther care than barely to live . They are lazy beyond belief , and ignorant almost beyond recovery : for they have now no means to bring their children either to learning or manners . Not an Academy in all Greece . Their carriage generally uncivil : their feasts riotous , and their mirth debaucht . Their Wives are well-favoured , and so indeed they must be ; for they use them no longer as their Wives than they continue to their liking : when they once fade they are put to the house drudgery . Their language is the same as heretofore but rudely corrupted , though ( as Maginus reports ) it differs not so much as the Italian from the pure Latine . They have no habit almost proper ; but those which serve the Turk wear their fashion : the rest which are under the Venetian , observe them in their apparel ; for they are slaves to both in their whole course . ( 9 ) Yet they retain still a shew of the Christian Religion which was here setled by Tim●thy , to whom Saint Paul wrote two Epistles , and was after in the Primitive time , professed by divers learned and reverend Divines of their own Nation , which are with us received as Authenick Fathers of the Church : S. Chrysostom , Basil , the Gregories , Nysene and Nazianzen , were all Grecians . The government Ecclesiastical is in the power of four Patriarchs : ( 1 ) of Constantinople , and his extends over all Greece , Muscovie , Sclavonia , Dacia , part of Poland , and all the Islands of the Adriatick and Aegean Seas : ( 2 ) Of Alexandria , and his over Ae●●pt and Arabia ( 3 ) of Hierusalem , and his over the Greeks in Palestine . ( 4 ) Of Antioch , and his over Syria ▪ Armenia and Cilicia . ( 10 ) The people of this Country were heretofore distinguished by their principal dialects . And those were the Attike , Ionike , Dorike , and Aeolike . A fift there was which was called a mixt or common dialect . Each differed from other no more than we do from our selves in several parts of our Kingdom . But this division will hardly reach the limits , which bounds Greece according to our description : we will adhere rather to that of our modern Geographers , whith reckon to Greece six Provinces . ( 1 ) Thrace . ( 2 ) Macedonia . ( 3 ) Albania . ( 4 ) Epirus . ( 5 ) Achaia , ( 6 ) Pel●ponnesus , and ( 7 ) The Islands . ( 11 ) Thrace is the most Northern tract of all Greece , and lyeth on the South of the mountain Hemus , on the North of the Aegean Sea , on the West of the Pontus Euxinus , and East of Macedonia . It hath the name from the sharpness of the air : and indeed it is very unpleasant for the most part , and too unnatural to its own fruit , that it scarce ever ripens what it brings forth . The people are many , and those very strong , ●ierce and heady ; and most impatient of government or discipline : and by this means they have seldom had success in their battles , whereas if they could have been brought to a joynt force it is said they would have been invincible . ( 12 ) Part of this Nation was heretofore perswaded , that their ancestors did not at all die neither should they ; but pass only out of this world into another to their supposed god Za●m●xis , once a scholar of Pythagoras , who when he had perswaded them into this Religion , seemed wonderfully to vanish out of their sight , and appeared not any more : but left them fully possest that he was the deity , which must after a time entertain them . And this they expected with that great joy , that as oft as one died , in stead of mourning they set forth games and feasts to congratulate his freedom from the troubles of this earthly condition : and the wife only , whom he loved best ( for they had many ) was thought worthy to be killed by her best friends at her husbands grave , that she might bare him company in the other world : the rest bewailed their neglect , and the residue of their life was to them as a disgrace . When a child was born , neighbours were called to bemoan his entrance into a multitude of calamities : and in course they reckoned up , what he was to pass before he could go to their go● Zalmoxis : for they acknowledged no other : but blasphemed and shot arrows against the Heavens as oft as they heard it thunder . ( 13 ) Their Kings , saith Quadus , are chose by suffrage : and those especially which are best known to be most mild ; not young , nor yet a Father of any children : for they will not by any means admit that their government should become hereditary . If the Prince himself offend , he shall not escape their Laws , even to death : yet no man may set a hand to his execution , but by a common desertion he is allowed no necessaries to live , and therefore must needs die . Here once reigned Polymnestor , which murdered Priam's youn● est son Polydorus : And Tereus , and Diomedes , &c. ( 14 ) This Province is now called Romenia , and takes that name from her chief City Constantinopolis or Roma nova : heretofore Bizantium , of great fame from her first building , and that was six hundred threescore and three ●ears before the Incarnation : her founder Pousanias a Lacedemonian . She stands so commodiously and commands the Euxine Sea , the Propontis and Hellespont , that there can hardly be any passage to or fro betwixt Europe and Asia in those parts , without her leave . And ( likely enough ) that for this cause Constantine the great when he divided the Empire , chose this for his Eastern feat : and in the year three hundred fifteen enlarged it with magnificient buildings , and deckt her in the appa●el of old Rom● : from whence he translated hither many ancient and costly monuments , and fain would have removed her name , but that his Subjects out of their endeared aff●ction to their Prince , would hear no other than Constantinopolis the City of C●nstantine . It is in compass eighteen miles , contains commonly seventy thousand Inhabitants , though almost every third year she be visited with a great Pestilence . The other eminent Cities of Thrace are Abdera , Nicopolis , Philopolis , Hadrianopolis , Trajanopolis , Phinopolis , Pemithus , &c. The Chersonesus over against Troas in Asia , is called Saint George his Arm : and in it stands Sestos , where the love passed betwixt Leander and Here , ( 15 ) Mac●donia is on the West of Thrace , East of Albania : North of Epirus and Achaia , and So●th of Mysia superior . It had this name from Macedo , grand-child to Deucalion , as Solinus gives him . The Land is fertile and pleasant : rich with Mi●●● of gold and silver : and the quality of the Inhabitants were heretofore answerable . Their disposition noble and free : Their Laws good , and those their own : their attempts great , and their Kings valiant and victorious . The most renowned were Philip , and ( the greatest one that ever the world knew ) Alexander his son , which conquered the world , and set here the Throne of the third Empire . ( 16 ) There are many under-Provinces in Macedonia . The principal is Thessalia , and here stands Triaeca the Bishops See of Heliodorus author of that excellent fiction of Theagines and Cariclea , though he were too much wedded to a youthful fable , when he chose rather to forgo his charge , than disavow his work . And here likewise is the Pharsalis , famous for the great battel betwixt Caesar and Pompey . The other Provinces are Aemathia , Bi●●ia , Pelasgia , Eshotis , and Phthiotis , which yield matter for many of their stories ; and are famous for divers Hills and Rivers often mentioned in our ancient Poets . The chief are Olympus , Pelion and Ossa , with their delicious valley Tempe , Pi●dus , Nymphaus , At●●s , &c. The Rivers Axius and Erigonius . The chief City in the whole Region was ( in Augustus his time ) Thessalonica , now Salonike , comparable they s●y in state and merchandise to Naples in I●aly . ( 17 ) Albania is on the West of Macedonia , and East of the Adriatick Sea : North of E●irus , and South of Sclavonia . Her chief Cities Albanopo●is and Duractinum , he●etofore called Epida●num and Croya . The whole Country was invaded by Amurath , ●n● recovered by George Castriot or Scanderbeg , the terriblest enemy that ever the Turk had . ( 18 ) Epirus in her name carries no more than a firm land ; and is a part ( as most esteem it ) of Albania , but indeed lies somewhat more South-ward than Abania propria : on the East she is divided from Achaia , by the River Achelous , and on the West is bounded with Mon●es Acroceraunii ; on the South with the Ionian Sea. It was of old divided into C●aonia , which took her name from Chaon , the brother of Helenus : and Acarnania which is now called Graecia the less . The Country was fertile and populous , but at this day lies wast , and breeds better Cattel than men : especially , Buls , Sheep , and Dogs of wonderfull bigness : among the rest extraordinary Mares , which from thence were called Eporiticae . It was the Kingdom of Pyrrhus , and of later years was governed by George Castriot . ( 19 ) Achaia is upon the South of Thessalia , East of the River Achelous ; West of the Aegean Sea , and North of Peloponnesus . It contains many famous Provinces , the chief are ( 1 ) Attica , and her prime City was Athens now Setines : she had her first name from Minerva , whom they honoured as their peculiar goddess : as being at that time accounted the best learned among the Heathens : and excelled as well in Martial affairs . In a word , they came short to no●e in wealth , State-policy , a●d what else might make a people happy above expression : so Pliny sets her forth . The second Priovince is Daris , a tract near Parnassus Mount , and mother to the most elegant Greek Dialect . ( 3 ) Aetolian and in this the City C●lynan . ( 4 ) Locris , and Regio Opuntiorum , her chief City Naupactus , and the famous Lepanto . ( 5 ) Phocis , which can glory in nothing more than the City Delphi , where the Oracle of Apollo gave answer ( for many years ) to the silly Idolaters . ( 6 ) Beotia , and in this stood Thebes . ( 7 ) Megaris , her principal City Megara , and from hence was the Se●ta Megarica , of which Euclide was chief . ( 20 ) P●loponnesus is a Peninsula on the South of Graecia , and joyned to the rest by an Isthmu● , which is not above 5 miles in breath from one Sea to the other , insomuch that it hath been sometimes attempted to be digged through , and was began by Nero but the work was found not worth the charge and trouble . It wa● fenced cross with a strong wall and five Castles ; which being once destroyed was the second time by many hands erected in five days , and called Hexamillium . ( 21 ) This Peninsula is indeed the fortress of all Greece : and though it wants much of the ancient glory , which it might well vaunt in the time of Agamemnon , Menelaus , Ajax , and the rest : yet is she not so much to be contemned as other parts of this ruinated Co●ntry . However the Turk is her Master , and she his now called generally Morea . ( 22 ) Her Provinces were ( 1 ) Corinthia neer the Isthmus , and is named from her chief City Corint●us : which being ●●red , melted sundry metals into a confused medly , and made up the Aes Corinthium , held more precious than any other , of its own simple nature . ( 2 ) Argia , her Common-wealth was heretofore of great note , and her City Argos is at this day held pleasant and well seated . And in this likewise stood Epidamnus . ( 3 ) Laconia to the South of the Peninsulae : her Chief City was Lacedemonia , once Sparta : when Lycurgus gave his Laws , and is now called Misithra . ( 4 ) Messeni● , and her chief Cities are Messene , Methone , Corone , &c. ( 5 ) Elis. ( 6 ) Achaia propria : and here stood Aegina , and Aegium , and Patras . ( 7 ) Arcadia once Pelasgia , in the Cente● almost of Peloponnesus , full of pleasant Mountains , fit for pasture : and is therefore made the Shep●erds scene in our renowned Sir Philip ●idney's poetical story . Her principal City is Megalopolis . ( 23 ) Thus have we passed the Continent of Greece , and want co●ing only to give m● Reader a brief survey of the Islands which lie round in the Adriatique , Mediterane●n , Ionian , and Aegean seas . But by reason the compass is so large , and the number so great : the little space which is left me will scarce admit more than their bare names , which I will set down , with reference to their next neighbouring Provinces , as I have described them in the Continent . ( 24 ) First then near Pelep●●●esus , and the Ionian sea toward Macedonia and Epirus , the chief ●re Aegina , Cithera , the St●oph●des , Z●●yn●bus , Cephalonia , Ithac● , E●●inades , Corcyra or Corphin and Saph● , &c. In the Aegean sea belonging to Greece , are the Cyclades and Sporades , and over against Thrace Thassus , Samothracia , Imbrus , and Lemnos Vulcani . Neer Macedonia , Pepanthos , Scopelos , Scyathos , Scyros , A●●onnesus , Cycinnethus , Dromus , Seraquinus . Neer Achaia is Euboea now Megreponte a very large Island ; and not far distant Andros , Tenos , Delos , Rhene , Melos , and many others . THE ROMANE EMPIRE Petrus Karius Caelavit map of the Roman Empire The Description of the Roman Empire . VIRTVTE Duce , comite Fortunâ , is the word of most Historians , upon the low birth and quick growth of the state of Rome . For had not matchless prowess , and infallible success joyned in their full strength to make up an Empire for the world to admire : I see not how she could in so few years raise her self from so small grounds , to so high a pitch of lu●tre , as set the whole earth at a gaze , and found us all business enough for a time , to do li●tle else but ob●erve her actions . Look back to Romulus her first founder ; you shall find him no better man , than the base son of a licentious Vestall ; his father not truly known to this day , but simply surmised to be Mars the god of War. His mother Rhea burnt by law for that very fact , in which she conceived him ; and himself an out-cast , exposed with his brother Rhemus , to be torn by the wild Beasts . Little hope we see left , for such a Nation to spring from their loins , had not Fortune lulled them in her own lap , and delivered them by meer chance , into the hands of one Faustulus the Kings Shepherd : when th●y were thus found , the best Writers afford them no better Nurse , than the Shepherds wife , a known Strumpet , who for her insatiate lust was called Lupa , and might perhaps occasion the fable of the Sh●w●lf : She suckled them with no choicer milk than she did her own home-spun brats ; nor were they bred under Faust●lus to any better fortune than the Sheep-hook : yet no sooner the yonkers were start up to the knowledge of their true birth , but they stript themselves out of their disguise , revenged their mothers death upon their usurping Uncle Ae●ilius Sylvius , rest●red the Latine Kingdom to the rightful Numitor , and erected a new Empire for their own posterity . ( 2 ) These were the progeny of Aeneas , who arrived here from the Tr●jan War , and made love to Lavinia , da●ghter to Latinus King of the Laure●ti●i . The great combat betwixt him and Turn●s the Rutilian , grew upon no other terms than for her fair looks , which he could not , nor did he peaceably enjoy , till he had vanquished his corrival , and then he soon fastned himself in the right to that Kingdom , and not long after p●ssest it , about the year of the world two thousand seven hundred eighty seven . It would not be much to our purpose , to lead you down step by step through the succession , till we come to Romulus . All before him , were before this Empire had Being ; and therefore out●eacht the line of my story : yet this in brief , we may recount here , that he was the 17 from Aeneas , and founded Rome in the year 3198. ( 3 ) The plat-form was first cast in a figure of a quadrangle upon the mons Palatinus , for the other six noted hills were not then taken in , but added in after ages , by their several Kings . It was began ( it seems ) but sleight , and the walls raised not very high when Rhemus could skip them over , in contempt of his brot●ers poor enterprise : but the mock cost him his life ; he was slain by Ro●ulus : and he now left the sole founder to give name to this new building . ( 4 ) Romulus then is their first King , and takes upon him the government of such discontented and mas●erless young Shepherds , as he had raked together to people his Common-wealth ; a crue so scor●ed of their neighbours , that their daughters denyed to joyn in marriage with such ● refuse of men : so that by this means this up-start Nation was like to sink in the birth , for meer want of issue to continue their succession : And without doubt themselves had seen their last man born , had not their own wit bestead them more , than the womens love . For when they saw ●heir worth was not sufficient to woe fairly with effect , they proclaimed a day for solemn sports , which they presu●ed ( and rightly too ) would call in their borders of both sex : and for that purpose had made provision of strength to force the women to their lust , whom the● could not enti●e to their lawful e●braces . The plot held , and the Sabi●●s bear the name to have suffered most in that brutish treache●y ; yet others ( it se●●s ) ●●d their part too in the injury , and joyntly beset them round with strong enemies , which the R●mans notwithstanding shook off with that ease and undaunted courage , that the rest were glad at last to yield them truce for their own quiet , and assist them too in their ●nsuing Conquest . ( 5 ) The City at this time was not above two miles in circuit ; the Inhabitants not much above the proportion of that little ground ; till Romulus had built an Asylum , a R●fuge for debaucht people ; where the servant might secure himself from his Master , the ●urderer from his Magistrate , the debtor from his arrest , and each fault from his punishment : and then he soon called in incredible swarms ( such as they were ) of Latines , Tuscaines , Trojans , Arcadians , and made up a Miscellany of people , each brought in the proper sins of his own Country , and have there left them as a testimony of their ancest ●rs to this day . ( 6 ) This policy might seem good at first to make up his number ; For who else ( but such ) would leave a setled state ( though mean ) in a well ordered Kingdom , to apply himself to novel●es of so uncertain event ? But in a few years their King found that there was more need of a Pistrinum to correct , than an Asylum to shelter his offenders , and therefore was fo●ced to make setled Laws for his Common-wealth ; and cull out a certain number of the best ordered , to assist him with their c●unsell , and see execution duly performed upon the rest . These be called Patres or Senatores , and w●re at first not above one hundred , chosen out of the elder , w●alth●er , and gravest Citizens , who were either called Patricii , for that they had m●st of them many children , or Patroni , as being the Patrons of the Plebeii or poorer sort , which were therefore oft times called Clients , as having no business of act●on in the Common-wealth , scarce so much as to require their own right , unless under the protection of some one or other of the Patricii ; yet afterward both the number of Senators was encreased to 200 ▪ and at last 300. and the Plebeii too in time had the priviledge to be elected into their society , ( 7 ) No sooner Romulus had thus set the form , but while he was yet in speech to the people at a set ass●mbly , a tempest rose , the skies darkned , and ● trick was found to juggle him clean out of their ●ight , as if at this instant he had been rapt into the Heavens . He past not ( it seems ) to lose his life , so that he might gain the opinion of a God. For so the Romans believed ; and it was confirmed by one Proculus , who pretended to have seen him after his change , and received a charge from his dei●y , that he should be thence forward honoured in Ro●e as her tutelare . In brief , the more likely sur●ise of his manner of death is , that in the storm he was cut in pieces by some of his Senators , who had either suffered under his tyranny , or at least had hope to ●aise themselves by his fall . ( 8 ) Their second King was Numa Pompilius , religious in his kind beyond all others , and ordained in Rome a set form to worship their gods , invested Priests and South-sayers to perform their rites , and fortel things to come : committed the Vestal fire to Virgins , to be kept a● a perpetual watch over the Empire , in an emulation to the bright stars of heaven , which were never extinguisht : and in brief , civilized the people so far as they began now , ( and scare till now ) to have a sense of mo●ral goodness , a moderate love to themselves mixt with some equity towards others . ( 9 ) Their third Tullus Hostilius stirred them up first with the desire of true honour , and enabled them by martial discipline to provoke the Albanes , a Nation then of long standing , and great fame th●ough most parts of Italy ; yea so equal was their prowess , that open war might well lessen their several strengths , but not determine the conquest , till by the tried fortune of the Horatii , and Curiatii , brothers on each party , it stoopt at last to Rome , beyond her own hope : for she had at last but one Champion left of her Horatii , against the three others , who were notwithstanding by a feigned flight of their own adversary drawn severally out into single combate , and successively fell by the sword of the Roman victor . Alba was now carried captive to Rome , and gave up her honours as a Trophy to this new born Empire . ( 10 ) Ancus Martius their ●ourth King enlarged her walls , joyned those parts of the City , which were before served by the River Tyber , with a large bridge . Their next Tarq●inius Priscus was a Corinthian , and knew well how to use his Greek wit , with a Roman valour . Nor peace nor war could ●ver-march him ▪ He triumpht over the Tu●cains , and was the first which entred the City in Chariotroyal , drawn with four horses , and first indeed that ordained the vestments , and ensigns of honour , which were after in frequent use , to stir up the souldier to deserving actions . ( 11 ) Their sixth Servius T●llius was so d●x●erous in his rule , that no person past him almost without equity of his wealth , years , worth , employments , for which special purpose he distinguished the people by several Tribes ; and overlookth all ( by this method ) with as much ease , as a nimble housewife doth her private family . ( 12 ) Tarquinius Superbus was the seventh and last King , proud and cruel , yet that too , though it cost him his Crown , enlarged the Kingdom to the Romans : for it prevailed upon many strong Provinces of Italy , which they after enjoyed with better hearts , and ruled with more equity , than he used in the unjust oppression of his neighbours . His name was grown odious when the lust of his Son Tarquinius wronged the chaste Lucretia , both together stirred the people to dis●obe him of his Title , and bethink themselves of some other form of government , which might sound more of the Roma● liberty . ( 13 ) This variety had took up hitherto scarce 245. years since the City was first built , a time too short for her greatness , if we compare her with the progress of other Nations : yet to her own ensuing fortunes , it is esteemed but her child-hood , her infancy : while she had not yet spake , nor the world well heard of her actions , farther than her own home , and her Countries near about . She began now to feel her strength , and when she had first freed her self from the oppression of her home bred Tyrant ; she soon after spread her Arms over all Italy , and her fame through most parts of the world . Her power was now no more at the disposing of one King , but designed over into the hands of two aged and wise Citizens , of their own ( though the best ) rank : and this they were to use , rather as ●eo●●es in trust , than free possessors ; wherefore the Romans baulkt their insolency , which their last King had before practised , both in the name of their new Governours , for they were called only Consules à Consulendo ; and in their term of Government , for it became now annual , which was not before limited unless by death : and lastly , by their ensigns of state , their twelve lictors and fasces , which were not allowed to both , but to each in turns for their several month . And this went on without breach almost six years , till the Romans thought fit to correct their Laws by the Greek Copy ; and therefore deputed three of their best esteemed subjects to see Athens , to peruse their orders and customs , of which the world had then a great opinion : for it was indeed the mother of learning . ( 14 ) They returned them written at first in ten tables made of brass ; two more were soon after added , and together were distinguished from their own municipal laws by the name of Leges 12. tabularum . The Consuls power was now taken off ; and thus was their rule of justice put into the hands of ten , whom they called Decemviri . Each ruled in his turn , and ( for that course ) had a power well-nigh as large as their Kings or Consuls , else differed little at other times from a private Romane . This began some 303 years after their first founder , and had continued but three , when Appius laid false claim to Virginia for his bond-maid , that indeed he might dishonour her as his strumpet . By this means he doubly provoked the Commons , both with her injuries , and her fathers sorrow , who was forced to murder his own daughter , to quit her from the lust of the Decemviri : and therefore they took revenge , not upon him only , but his office ; abrogated the Decemviratus and returned the authority into the hands of Consuls as before : yet so , as oft times by intercourse the Tribuni militum put in for a consulary soveraignty , and was admitted to the same dignity , though not the name , which the Patricii only referred to themselves as their royalty . It was first procured by the importunate motion of the Commons , that they might be equally capable of the Consulship . To this , though the nobility would not give their full assent in all circumstances , yet they were constrained for their own peace to yield in effect , and mince it with another title of Tribuni plebis Consulari pot●state . ( 15 ) Under these forms of government for three hundred years after the fall of Tarquinnius to Appius Claudius , and Q ▪ Fulvius Coss. They were still in growth , but not yet come to their state of honours : and therefore Florus rightly styles it the youth of Rome , in comparison to the age of man. In this while their most famous stories are the war with Porsenna , some eight years after their first Consuls : the creation of Dictators and Tribunes of the People within twenty ; the injuries of M. Coriolanus , and attempt against his own Country not long after : the construction of many set Laws , which continued in force to after ages : the Lex ag●aria , Publia , de Aventino , Tarp●ia , of the twelve Tables , Clodia , Ae●●ilia , de Ambitu , de Mulctis , &c. The Censors fi●st created about 68 years after the Regifugium : the conspiracy of the servants some 92 after : many victories in the interim , and Rome her self at last taken by the Gaules , but freed by Camillus about the 120. Marcus Curti●s casts himself into the pit to preserve his Country : more Laws are made ; the first Punik● war waged , all within 120 and odd years after Rome was surprised : some 28 after that , the Bellum Ligusticum and Ianus Temple the second time shut : then the Bellum Illyricum , Gallicum Ci●alpinum , and ( the last of this age ) the second Punike war. ( 16 ) By this time Italy was subdued , and now she swept on with full sayl , and confirmed strength : and about twenty after was able to resist the Macedonian , made war with Perses , set on to the third Punike war ; wasted Carthage , and then Numantea : took Arms against Iugurtha , all in less compass of years than one hundred ; and about this time was the Eagle took up by Marius for the Roman ensign . Soon after was the Bellum Marsicum , and Mithridaticum ; Catilines conspiracy , and the noble acts of those great Heroes , Scylla , and Cicero , C●s●r and Pompey , and the rest , which removed the Greek Empire to Rom● , and made her the seat of the fourth Monarchy about seven hundred and three years after the City was built , forty eight before Christ. ( 17 ) Hitherto ( though with some change and curb ) they continued the succession of Consuls , till Iulius Caesar returned from Spain with victory over Pompeys sons : and then the Senate , expressing more worship to him than foresight of their own future mischief , invented new titles of singular honour , call him Pater patriae C●nsul in Decennium , Dictator in perpetuum , Sacrosanctus and Imperator , all which himselfe made good , not in bare name only , as perhaps they meant , but in short space gathered a power equal to their fla●tery , and by his own strength kept , what was only thei●s to give till by Brutus and Cassius he was slai● in the Senate , and then the rule fell for a short while to a Triumviratus which began and ended with Octavius Caesar , A●tonius and Lepidus ▪ After ten years the whole Empi●e was left to Octtavius , and his ti●les were A●g●stus Caesar , and Imperator : they continue to his successors to this d●y . ( 18 ) Rome as yet sinks not in her glory , but goes fairly on with full victory , till the Imperial seat was removed to Biza●tium , and after divided into the East and Wes● by Thedo●ius . Betwixt these whiles was a great part of the world still called in , to enlarge their Domini●ns , and our selves among the rest , though with some difficulty , were forced to yield Brit●in a Province to C●sar , and the Roman Empire . For let us take her limits at their best advantage ; and she was on the West bounded with the Atlantick Ocean ; on the East with the Riv●r Tigris in Asia ; on the North with Rhene and Danubius in Europe , and on the S●uth with the Mount Atlas in Africa : They contain these several Provinces , almost in order ( of time ) as they were subdued . Italy , par●s of Africa , Spain , and Germany , Britain , Illiricum , Liburnia , Dalmatia , Achaia , Macedonia , and Dardania , Mesia , and Thracia , Pontus , Armenia minor , Mesopotamia , Parthia , Arabia , Iudaa , Cilicia , Syria , Aegypt , Cantabria , Austria , Alpes Maritimae , Rhetium , Noricum , Panonia , Armenia major , and the Islands round : so Ortelius Marshals them . ( 19 ) We m●st omit for want of space many emi●ent turns of Fortune which Rome suffered in these interims , and take her now as at that time she was in her ●ull height of honour ; in compass ●●fty miles , seated on the River Tyber fifteen from the Sea : on her walls were raised 740 turrets , fit to receive provision in war for defence of the City in time of siege . Livy numbers her 37 gates , and her foundation was pitcht upon seven hills : ( 1 ) Palattinus , which ( as some say ) gave the name to our Kings Palaces . ( 2 ) Capi●olinus , upon which was built the Capitoll , delivered from the Gaules by the gaggling of Geese . ( 3 ) Vimi●alis . ( 4 ) Aventinus , from whence their condemned persons were cast into the River Tyber . ( 5 ) Esquilinus . ( 6 ) Coelius , where once stood the chief Councel-house for the Senators . ( 7 ) Quirinalis . You may not expect here an exact description ; take at large the speech of the Emperour Constantius , when with wonder he beheld the Campus Martius , the Sepulchre of Augustus , the Forum , Temples , Bathes , Theaters , the Ar●us triumpbales , Aquaducts , stateness , and infinite other Monuments , he gave a brief epitomy of her antique glory ; that Nature had spent her self in the making up of that one City , as if we might not hope to see the like in after-ages : and true enough it is , that she could not long support her self in that state of honour , but ( as a string stretcht to the utmost ) cracks on the sudden . ( 20 ) No sooner she was once divided , but she lay open as a prey to the Goths , Huns , Vandals , Alani , Burgundians and Lombards : all now left of the Empire , is almost a naked title , and that scarce heard of in Rome , for it hath its seat in Germany , and is conferred upon some Christian Prince by the suffrages of the seven Electors . The spiritual ( 1 ) Arch-bishop of Me●tz , Chancellour of the Empire through all Germany . ( 2 ) Archbishop of Cullen . Chancellour of the Empire through I●aly . ( 3 ) Arch-bishop of Triers , Chancellour of the Empire through all France . The Temporal . ( 4 ) Count Platine of Rhene , Arch-sewer to the Emperour . ( 5 ) Duke of Saxony , Lord Ma●shal . ( 6 ) Marquess of Brandenberg , chief Chamberlain ; and ( 7 ) in case of equality of voyces among the other ●ix , the King of Bohemia casts the Diadem into whose lap he pleaseth . ( 21 ) For the state of Rome as now it is , and what else concerns the Empire since the removall of the seat royal , I refer my Reader either to the descriptions of Italy and Germany , or at least to some other modern Authors , who have scope to write more at large : my intent here was briefly to set down the beginning , increase , top and limits of the ancient Roman government . GERMANIA Petrus Caerius Caelavit map of Germany The Description of GERMANY . GERMANY is continued with Belgia , and lyeth next East-ward in our course toward Asia . We shall find them oft times no otherwise distinguisht , than by the tearms of higher and lower , greater and l●sser Germany . And indeed as this is the larg●st portion of the whole Region , which is known by that name : so is it the largest Region of our whole quarter , which is known entirely by any one name . ( 2 ) As for her antiquity ; it doth not only compare her to the rest of Europe ; but compares Europe her self with any o●her part of the second world , which accounts her years but from Noahs Flood , or the confusion of Tongues . For this purpose we had before occasion , in our general Descriptions , to mention the original of the German Kingdoms : and that ( as you may remember ) was drawn by Chronologers from Tuisc● ( some say ) the son of Noah , which lived soon after the world was repaired , and began his Empire about thirty years from the fall of B●bel . ( 3 ) It appears sufficiently upon the record of received Historians , that in the time of their Idolatry , they worshipped one Thyst or Tuisco , as a God , which sprang from the earth : and to this day , as I hear , there is a street about Culle● called Deuts●h , and is thought as yet to retain a sound of the name of Tuisco : for there he is supposed to have kept his residency . Whether thus or no , I leave to ●y Authors proof , and my Readers judgement to believe or reject as it shall seem best . All I can enforce i● , that doubtless the Germans were an anient people : and that they might challenge , had they no other testimony 〈◊〉 shew for it , than her very names of Tuiscia , or T●●●scke , Theus●hland , Al●ania , and Te●toni● , by which she was known , in several ages , long before the Romans gave her this last app●lla●ion 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . ( 4 ) Tuisci● , Teutsch , or Teuschlant , was received from her first King , and Almania from her second , the son of Tuisc● , who ( as their story gives it with equal credit as it doth the rest ) was likewise worship●ed for a God , by the name of Mannus : The same account is rendred for Tutonia , from T●to a Captain of the Germans ; and their ninth from Tuisco . Under these they continued till the Romans ●ntred after their Conquest over the Gauls : for whose likeness to them both in feature , and c●ulor , in goodly portraiture and carriage of their wars , they were from that time called 〈◊〉 , as if broth●rs to the Gauls . Yet there are too , which compound the name of the 〈◊〉 words G●r or G●r , which signifieth all or wholly , and Ma● , which retains with us its prime significa●ion of 〈◊〉 : as if they were all men to the proof : or , as other interpret , as if they were a mixt Nation o● all s●rts of men from several Countries . ( 5 ) But this last agrees not with the conjecture of some G●ographers , that 〈◊〉 hath not ch●nged h●r Inhabitants since she was first possest : 〈…〉 And this indeed differs not mu●h from the report of 〈…〉 and other ancient Writers . But the reason I hold not good : for ●owso●ver it might be true in 〈◊〉 times of some , and the most part perhaps of 〈◊〉 ( as it was then 〈◊〉 ) that it w●s 〈…〉 yet now she hath changed her 〈…〉 ( 6 ) By her first Geographers she was 〈…〉 tongue and Empire exercised over the Region of Prussia . South-ward she reacheth beyond Danubius to the very Alpes which border upon Italy . North● ward she hath ever kept her own , but hath been curb'd indeed from seeking new Kingdoms in that tract , by the main Ocean , which divides her in part from Swevia , Norway , &c. And to these limits we apply our Description . No marvel● if it give her more honour , than she had in former times . For her compass now is reckoned to be 2600 English miles . Her ground fertile enough of it self : and yet besides enjoyes the benefit of many Navigable Rivers , which enrich her with traffique from other Kingdoms . ( 7 ) Those of greatest fame are ( 1 ) Danubius the largest of Europe , called , by Pliny , and others Ister : It takes in sixty Navigable Rivers ; and is at last discharged by many passages into the Pontus Euxinus . ( 2 ) Rhene , which hath its rising from the Alpes , and runs into the German Ocean . From thence have we , our best Rhen●sh Wines : and upon his banks s●ands the City Strasburge . ( 3 ) Ama●us Fms , which glides by W●stphalia into the German Sea. ( 4 ) Maemu Megu , whose head is in the Mountains of Bo●emia , and from thence passeth by Francfort into the German sea . ( 5 ) Albis Elve , which riseth from the eleven Fountains meeting into one , about the Sylva Hircinian . ( 6 ) Odeca , which hath not his passage immediately into the Sea , but in●o the River Albis . The middle mark of this Country is the Kingdom of ●ohemia , encompassed with the Sylva Hircinia . ( 8 ) The chief commodities of Germany are Corn , Wine , Salt , Metals of all sorts , Fruits good store , Safron , &c. The Aire wholsome , her Bathes healthful , her Gardens pleasurable ; her Cities fair , her Castles strong , and her Villages very many , and well peopled . ( 9 ) The Inhabitants have put off their ancient rudeness , as the Country her barrenness . They are as goodly of person as ever , as stout as ever , and far more civill than in the time of the Romans . It seems they were then esteemed but an ignorant and simple people : more able to fight than to m●nage a battle . They were ever hardy enough , but wanted Commanders of their own , of skill and ●udgement . Since they had commerce with other Nations : and have suffered the upbraid ( asit were ) of their Predecessors dulness : they have been ( in a manner ) shamed out of it , and are now become , rather by industry than wit , a most ingenious people , and skilful in the Latine , Greek , and Hebrew learning : famous beyond any others in Europe , unless Belgia , for the invention of many notable and ●seful Engines . The Gun and Gun-powder was first brought to light by one Bertholdus Swart a Franciscan , which hath almost put by the use of any other warlike Instrument , in those parts of the world , where the practice is perfectly understood . Generally the poorer sort are excellent Mechanicks , and the rest for the most part Scholars . ( 10 ) It bred Albert●s M●gnus , Appean , Ge●ner , Munster , Luther , Vrsin , Zuinglius , Scultetus , Iunius , Keckerman , and many others , in their several kinds and Religions : some Papists , some Lutherans , some Calvinists , and among the rest many Iews . ( 11 ) The Government of this Germany is Imperial , as once that of Rome was , though it flourish not in so full glory . The right descends not by succession ; nor is the election continued by the like suffrage as in old Rome . The power of choice was conferred by Pope Gregory the tenth upon seven German Princes : three Spiritual , and four Temporal . These are the Arch-bishop of Ment● , Chancellour of the Empire through Germany : Archbishop of Cullen , Chancellour of the Empire through Italy ; Arch-bishop of Triers , Chancellour of the Empire through France ▪ The Temporal are , the King of Bohemea , who hath the casting voice , only in case of equality among the other six : his office is to be chief Cup● bearer at the great solemnity : Next him the Count Palatine of the Rhene , Arch-sewer to the Emperour : Duke of Saxony , Lord Marshal : and Marquess of Brandenburge , chief Chamberlain . Each of these perform his own Office in person , upon the day of Inauguration . The Duke of Saxo●y bears the sword . The Count Palatine placeth his meat on the Table . The King of Bohemia bears his Cup , and delivers it him to drink : Marquess of Brandenb●rg serveth him water to wash : And the three Bishops bless his meat . He receiveth three Crowns , before he is fully setled into the Majesty of the Empire . The first is of Silver , for Germa●y . The second of Iron , for Lombardy . And the third of Gold , for the Empire : the last is set on at Rome . For to this day it pretends to the name of the Roman Empire and gives the title o● Caesar , or Ro●ani imperii Imperator . ( 12 ) The first which enjoyed the institution of Pope Gregory , was Radulphus Nabs Purgensis , 1273. after twelve years interregnum . The last before him was our Richard Earl o●● Cornwall , and brother to Henry the third , King of England . Since it hath continued firm in this course of Election , howsoever not with that liberty as was intended . For commonly the Emperour in being , while he hath his power about him , and can ( at least ) intreat , if not command the subjects of the Empire , promise a choice of the Rex Ro●a●orum : who is no other than a Successour designed to rule after his death , or resignation ▪ And by this means it hath a long time continued in the house of Austria without any intermission . ( 13 ) Thus we ●●e much plotting , great state , many ceremonies to the making up of an Emperour , and yet when it is well weighed , it is little better then a bare title . For howsoever these outward ob●ervances of the G●rman Princes make show of an humble subjection to the Emperour : yet when it comes to tr●all , it hath very little to do in their Governments : But each of them takes upon ●im as a ●ree and absolute Commander in his own Country : permitteth or suppresseth the Beligion , which he ●ither likes or disl●kes : makes and abrogates Laws at pleasure , stamps Coyn , raiseth souldiers , and sometimes against their great Master , as the Duke of Saxony against Charles the fi●th , and at this day divers others in defence of the Princ● P●latine For of this q●ality and power there are many Dukes , Marquesses , Counts , &c. besides 64 Franc Cities , which make only some slight acknowledgment to the Emperour : appear perhaps at his ●arliaments ; and ( they say ) are bound to ●urnish him at need with 3842 horse ( amonge them ) and 16200 foot . ( 14 ) The chei●est Regions of Germany , best known to us , and noted ▪ by our Geographers with a more eminent Character than the rest , are these : ( 1 ) East Frizeland . ( 2 ) Westphalia . ( 3 ) Cullen . ( 4 ) Munster . ( 5 ) Triers . ( 6 ) Cleve . ( 7 ) Gulick . ( 8 ) Hassis . ( 9 ) Alsatia . ( 10 ) Helvetia . ( 11 ) Turingia . ( 12 ) Brunswick and Lunenburg . ( 13 ) Franconia . ( 14 ) Palaltinus Rh●ne . ( 15 ) Wittenburg . ( 16 ) A●sper . ( 17 ) Bayden . ( 18 ) Mentz . ( 19 ) Bamberg . ( 20 ) Weirstberg ( 21 ) Saxonia ( 22 ) An●●●t . ( 23 ) Mansfield . ( 24 ) Swevia . ( 25 ) Bavaria . ( 26 ) Brandenburg . ( 27 ) Lusatia . ( 28 ) Tirolum . ( 29 ) Misnia . ( 30 ) Bohemia . ( 31 ) Silesia . ( 32 ) Moravia . ( 33 ) Pomeranea . ( 34 ) Mecklinburg . ( 35 ) Austria . 15 East-Frezeland is on the West side of Germany , and bounded with the North Sea. Her chief Town is Embden . ( 2 ) Wesphalia is on the South of East Frizeland . It is most famous for Swine and excellent Bacon , which is esteemed with us , one of our greatest dainties to commend a feast . Part of it belongs to the three next Bishops , of Cullen , Munster , and Triers . ( 3 ) Cullen her Arch-Bishop is an Elector . The chief Town was called Vbiopolis , afterward Agrippina , and lastly Cullen , from a Colony which was there planted by the French. It is a received tradition among the Inhabitants that the bodies of the Wisemen , which came from the East to worship Christ are here interred . None almost , but hath heard of the three Kings of Cullen . ( 4 ) Munster . Her chief City is Munster , notable since the year 1533 at which time a company of brain sick Anabaptists named it Ierusalem ▪ and raised them a new Governour , by the title of the King of S●●● . ( 5 ) Triers . Her Arch bishop an Elecator . Her chief City T●iers , of great antiquity , founded by Trebeta the son of N●●ius ; and ●●pport sackt by our Earl Richard King of the Romans . ( 16 ) ( 6 ) Clivia or Cleeveland , a Duke dome of that name . Her chief Cities are Wesell , Emrick , and Cleve . Her commodity the Tophus-stone , of which they make Cement ( 7 ) Iuliacum , Gulick , a Dutchy . Her principal City is Aken or Aquiseranum , where the Emperour receives his Silver Crown for Germany ; and doth great worship to a clout , which they take to be our Saviours Mantle , in which he was wrapped . ( 8 ) Hassia , a mountainous Country , but fruitful . Her Metropolis Marpurgum an University : and the chief place of her Lant-grave is Cassels . It comprehends likewise the Counties of Nass●w and Hanaw . ( 9 ) Alsatia , Her chief City is Strasburg , famous for a Clock of wonderful art and a Tower of five hundred seventy eight paces high . Other Towns here are of note , as Bing , Worms , Confluence and Andernach . ( 10 ) Helvetia Swetzerland on the East of France , and North of Italy . It contains thirteen Cantons : Zurich , Berne , ●● ucerne , Vrenia , Glavis , Zugh , Basell , Friburg , Vnderwalt , So●o●r , Shas●ha●●en , Ape●sol , and Suits . Her chief Cities are Zurike or Tigurum , where Zuinglius was martyred ; and Seng●ll or Civitas Sancti Galli , and Ba●ell , where a general Council was decreed to be above the Pope , in the year one thousand four hundred thirty one . ( 17 ) Tari●gia . Her Prince a Lant-grave . Her ground though not of large extent , nor above twelve German miles either in length or breadth ( saith Maginus ) yet it is very rich , it comprehends twelve Counties , as many Abbies , a hundred fourty four Cities , as many Towns , above two thousand Viliages , two hundred and fifty Castles . Her Metropolisis E●●ord ( 12 ) Brunswick on the East of W●s●phali● , a Dukedom : whose principal Citi●s are Brunswick , H●l●erst●de , Wol●heiton , and Luneburg , which gives title to an other Duk●dom , whose chief Seat is Cella . ●18 ) ( 13 ) Franconia . I● lyeth on the West of T●ringia , and joyns to Hossia Northward . The Inhabitants were converted to Christianity by Boniface . In this Province stands Francfort , famous for her ●wo Marts every year , and Norem●erge ; within the Territories are comprehended the seven other which ●elong to this section . ( 18 ) The Palatine of Rhene , some seventy two miles from North to South , and from East to West nienty six . Her chief City is Heidelberge ▪ Her Prince an Elector , and hath many more priviledges than the other six . In the vacancy he is Governour of a great part of Germany . ( ●● ) W●tte●●●rge , The chief Towns are Tubing an Vniversity , St●dgard , &c. ( 16 ) A●spech , a Marqui●a●e . Her chi●f Town A●●pech . ( 17 ) Bad●n , a Marquisate , pleasant and fruitfull , betwixt the Rivers Rhene and N●ccar . Her chief Cities are 〈◊〉 and Baden , in which there be Bathes that cures many diseases . ( 18 ) Ment● , M●guntia , a Bishoprick : The Prince is a Spiritual Elector , and sits alwaies at the right hand of the Emperour . ( 19 ) Bamberg , a Bishoprick of it self of large revenues . In this stands Fochia , where , they say , Pontius Pilate Was born . ( 20 ) Weirstberg . Her Bishop is entituled Duke of Franconia . ( 19 ) ( 21 ) Saxony on the East of Hassia , and South of Brunswick , and North of 〈◊〉 . In this Province was Luther born at Is●eben . Within her bounds are likewise comprehended t●ese two other Principalities of Anhalt and Mansfield . ( 22 ) Anhalt , whose Governour with great courage and power bore Arms in defence of the Palatines right to the Kingdom of Bohemia . ( 23 ) Mans●●eld an E●rldom , the more famous for the valiant acts of the present Count , who to this day wars upon the Emperours party , in the behalf of the illustrious P●latine , and his unparrelled ●ady Elizabeth , Sister to his royal Ma●esty of England . ( 20 ) ( 14 ) Swevia on the South of Franconia . It is a Country full of people , and those 〈◊〉 goodly personage : great wit and valiant . In this Province is the head of Danubius , and runs through the middle of the Country . Her chief Towns are Vlme , Lendawe , and Auspurg , or Augusta Vindelicorum Norlingen , &c. ( 25 ) Bavaria on the South of Bohemia and Franconia . There is both the upper and lower Bavaria . Of the first , the chief Cities are Muchen , Ingolstade , Frising ; and about thirty four Towns more , equal to the most Cities of the lower Bavaria : the principal are Ratisbone , Pat●vium , P●ss●n , Lanshutum , and Salt●p●rge . In this City lyeth ●uried Paracelsus . ( 26 ) Brandenburg : on the East of Saxo●y , a Marquisate of five hundred and twenty miles in compass . It was heretofore inhabited by the Vandales . The Metropolis is Brandenburg , and Francfort ad O●i●um : for so it is distinguisht from the other Francfort in Franconia , and Berlium . Her● are fifty-five Cities , and sixty-four Towns. ( 27 ) Lusatia , it looks West-ward toward Saxony . The chief City is Gorlit●ia . ( 28 ) Tyrolum , on the South of South of Bavaria , and East of Helvetia . Her cheif Cities are Oonipus , Inspruck , Br●ixen , Tridentum Trent , where the general Council was held , one thousand five hundred forty six . ( 29 ) Misnia , on the East of L●satia , a ●ruitfull Region . Her chief Ci●ies are Misnia , Dresden , Lipsin , a place of learning , and Torga : many Writers place this Province with Saxony . ( 21 ) ( 30 ) Bohemia , on the South of Saxony and Misnia , encompassed with the Sylva Hircinia , a ●ruitfull and pleasant Country . It may deserve a particular description of it self ; and therefore I wil● mention it here with no other solemnity , then I do the rest of Germany ▪ Her Metropolis is Prague , which was taken by the Imp●rialists in th●● last quarrel , the King and Queen ( being at that time ) in the Church celebrating Gods service , were forced suddenly to flie for their safety into Sile●ia . ( 31 ) Sil●sia East●ward from part of Bohemia : two hundred miles long , and eighty one broad , a fruitfull Country : the people valiant . Her principal Cities are Breselare , and Neisse . ( 32 ) Moravia , on the East of Bohemia , and South of Silesia . Her chief Cities are Almusium ; Olmutz and Brin , ( 33 ) Pomerania . It is bounded on the East with I●tula ; on the North with the Baltick Ocean . Her Metropolis is Stetin O●hers ch●ef are Wol●●st , Wallin , &c. On the West of this Region stands ( 34 ) Mecklingburg or M●galop●lis , a place Provincial of it self , and hath Towns of note , Mal●hawe , Rostock &c. ( 22 ) ( 35 ) A●stria , an Arch-Dukedome , it lieth upon Hungary , and is esteemed by the Germans the Easte●n b●●nd of the Empire . It was formerly called Pannonia superior . It is a rich Country . Her chief Cities are Vi●nna , famous for beauty , wealth , and learning : Emps , St. Leopald , &c. There are reckoned to this Region the Provinces of Styria , Carinthia , Carinola , and by some Tirolum . BOHEMIA Petrus Kaerius Caelavit The Description of the Kingdome of BOHEMIA . IN our Description of Germany , we reckoned Bohemia , but as a Province among the rest : and therefore she was mentioned there with no more solemnity , than the other parts were . We purpose here to declare it an intire Kingdom of it self : which besides her own compass ( as she is most commonly limited by Geographers ) hath under-subjects , Dukedoms , and Marquisates , such as do her homage , and make her well worthy of a more particular History , than we had before room for . ( 2 ) The ancient Inhabitant of these parts was the Bemorum magna gens , as Ptolomy calls it : and placeth it somewhat South , toward Danubius under Suna sylva : After them , the Boii , a people of Gallia Lugdunensis , which had been before conquered by Caesar ( saith Quadus ) and packt over the Alpes to seek them a new seat in Italy . But , when they found the Romans too hot for their abode there , they were forced to trudge farther , and to pass the River . Rhene into Germany , as Strabo witnesseth , where they found them a fit place to lurk in , compassed with a large Wood called the Sylva Hircinia : and like enough they joyned in with the Bemi , to make up the name of Bohemia . But neither here did they enjoy their peace long , for they were in time nestled out by a potent people of Swevia , called Marcomanni : and they again had the like measure from the Sclavonians , a barbarous crue , which came in upon them , under the conduct of an exiled murderer of Croatia , one Zechius , about the year five hundred and fifty . ( 3 ) From that time there hath been no general expulsion : but the present Bohemians are the progeny of those Sclavonians , whose very language and customs are in use among them at this day . Doubtless it was at first a rude Common-wealth , that had no other Governours , but so ungoverned a multitude : for so they continued above an hundred years after Zechius . But when they had for a time endured the misery of such a confusion , they were content to agree upon some one for their Prince , that might rule them : and the first which they elected was Cro●us , a man of gr●at esteem among them for his wisdom and goodness . ( 4 ) Till the time of Vratislaus it had the title of a Dukedome only . He was the fi●st King , and was created by Henry the fourth of Germany , Anno one thousand eighty six . Yet after that again , for the succession of six Princes , it was governed by Dukes . For the second King was Vladislaus , the third crowned by Frederick the Emperour , in the year one th●usand one hundred fifty nine : and the third , Primaslaus , crowned by the Emperour Phillip , one thousand one hundred nienty nine : after six other Dukes from his Predecessor Vla●islaus the third . It hath been now long since fully setled into a Kingdom : and is the title of the right noble Frederick Count Elector Palatine of the Rhene , and husband to the illustrious Elizabeth , daughter to our late Soveraign King Iames. They were both crowned at Prague , in the year one thousand six hundred and nineteen : but have been enforced ever since to maintain their right by continual wars against F●rdinand the second ▪ who by vertue of an adoption which declared him successor to Matthias , laies claim to the Crown of Bo●●mia . But the ●as● was before de●ided in their third Vladislaus , who though as deeply 〈◊〉 to t●e Kingdom , as 〈◊〉 co●ld be : yet for that he had past no l●gall ●l●ct●on , acc●●ding to ●●●ir Cust●mes and Priviledg●s , he was deposed by the States , and Vladisl●us chose in his room . ( 5 ) There remains no great difficulty , concerning the na●e . It appears suff●cien●ly to proce●d either from her first people , or first Prince , who ( as some report ) was one Boemus . And it is worth observin● that though this Land hath in sundry ages , being so oft●n ran●a●kt , and po●●st by s●rangers and Tyrants , yet in her name she constantly preserves the memory only of her f●●st Natives ▪ and hath not suffered that change , as we have done , from Albion to Britain , from Britain to E●gland . A●d so indeed it is with almost all which have been equally subject to the like Inva●●ons . ( 6 ) The situation of this Kingdom is almost in the midst of Germany , and is easily des●ried in ou● common Maps , by the Hircinian Forest , held , in the Romans time , to be nine dayes journey in breadth , and in length at l●ast forty . So Caeser in his sixth Com. It ●oseth Bo●emia on every side , insomuch that ( to sh●w ) they are not unlike an A●phit●eater , it is M●ginus his comparison . The several parts of th●s Wood are known by divers names , which they take from the Country adjacent . The portion North west , is by S●rabo called Ga●reta Sylva , that South toward Danubius , Lu●a Sylva by Ptolomy , non S●lva Passarica : and so the rest . Without this Wall of Bohemia ( as Q●adus calls it ) her limits are on the West Franconia , on the North L●satia and Mis●ia : on the South ●avaria and Austria : on the East ●oravia and Silesia . The figure of it is in a manner circular , and the Diameter is esteemed three da●es journey to a quick traveller . The circuit contains five hundred and fifty miles , of good ground fertile and pleasant , enricht as well by her Rivers as Land commodities . ( 7 ) Her principal are ( 1 ) Albis Elve , which hath h●s rising in the Hircinian Wood , and the name from eleven Fountains , which meet in o●e at the head of the River . For Elve or Elbe in the German Tongue signi●ies eleven . It runs through a great part of the Country , and by the chief City Prague , and at last vents it selfe into the German Ocean . Of this Lucan thus : Fundat ab extremo flavos Aquilene Suevos Albis & indomitum Rheni caput — ( 2 ) Multaria Mulda ( 3 ) Egra , which gives a name to a Town ( 4 ) Sass●va . ( 5 ) Gisera . ( 6 ) Missa . ( 7 ) Vatto . They are received all into the River Albis , yield excellent Salmon , and plenty And if we will believe report ) there is oft times found in the sands , lumps of pure gold , which need no other refining , and very precious shels of great value . ( 8 ) It seems the water supplies that only defect which is to be found in their Land. For it is to be observed to be full with Mines of all sorts of metals , Gold only excepted . Their Tin was found out by an E●glish man of Cornwall , in the year one thousand two hundred and forty ; one belike which h●d been skilled in that work , in his own Country : for it is said , That at that time there was no Tin known elsewhere in E●rope . The earth gives good Corn , and their pastures breed as good Cattle . There is Wood good store , as there are Woods which harbour multitudes of wile Beasts , Fox●s , Bears , Harts , Bulls , and others : which afford them sport in the hunting , and meat for the best man● Table . Among the rest there is a wild Beast , which they call Lomi , armed by nature with a strange defence against the hounds which ●ollow her : For they say , she hath a kind of bladder , hanging under her ●aws , which in the hunting she fills with a s●lding hot water ▪ and ●asts it upon the Dogs , with th●t nimbleness , that they are not able to avoid or pursue her : but oft times have their ve●y hair ●all off , as from a drest Pig. The Co●n●ry is generally 〈◊〉 in Saffron , and other med●cinal drugs : Wine it hath too , but not so kind or pleasi●g as in other places : ●nsomuch that the richer sort furnish themselves out of A●stria , H●ngary , and the Reg●on about , which they in lieu of it , supply with excellent Beer . For they are held very good at the art of brewing , and not behind hand at dr●nking when th●y have done . It is said ( of the 〈◊〉 sort I 〈◊〉 ) that if once they set to a Ve●●el of good l●quor , they will not loo●e it t●ll they 〈◊〉 ●ound it ●●pty . 〈…〉 before them , as oft as he was heard ( though in a dead sound ) by the enemy , whom he had so often crushed , while he was yet living . ( 10 ) For matter of learning , they have not been very famous heretofore : howbeit now , the better parts are not now behind with the other parts of Germany . The chief of note , were Iohn Huss● , and Hi●rome of Prague , two worthy members of the Church : They were condemned for Heretiques in the Council of Constance , one thousand four hundred and fourteen , for attempting a reformation of such errours , as they held not agreeable with the word of God. But yet their sufferings could not dead the good seed which they had sown in the true hearted . It lives still among them in some measure : though they have been often assayed by strange Impostures in Religion , such as the heart of man could not conceive , without a strong and extraordinary working of that great Deceiver . ( 11 ) I cannot pass the most wicked cousenage of Picardus , who pos●est great multitudes of these silly people , with an opinion , that he could recall them to that perfect state in which Adam was created : placed them in an Island for that purpose , which he called Paradise , caused them to walk naked , and named this Sect Adamites . Horrible sins were committed under that pretence , promiscuous whoredome and incest at their very Divine Service . It is feared that at this day , there are many secret professors , which live under ground , meet at their solemnities , have their prayers framed to their own humour : and when the Priest pronounceth the words of Genesis ( as his custome is ) Crescite , & multipli●amini , & replete terram , the lights are suddenly pop 't out , and without any respect had to alliance or kindred , or reverence to their exercise , they mingle like Beasts ; and when they have acted their wickedness , and are returned to their seats , the Candles are again lighted , and they fall to their pretended prayers , as if there had been no harm done . ( 12 ) The King is one of the seven Electors of the Emperour : and in case the other six be equally divided , he gives the suffrage , which carrieth it . It is to be thought , that his power was conferred upon 〈◊〉 not without great counsel , and good reason . For ( besides that the place it self is by natur● strong ) the people to have a special inbred love to Germany , and defence of her liberties . At Coronation he is Cup-bearer , and performs it himself in person , if he bepresent . His revenues are cast up to be three Millions of Crowns , which are not gathered all within the compass here limited , but part out of other Principalities , which are annexed to this Kingdom . For there are four Regions which make up his Title , and are subject to his government : ( 1 ) Bohemia it self , as we have described it . ( 2 ) Lusatia . ( 3 ) Silesia . ( 4 ) Moravia . They were named in the Map of Germany , as being parts of the whole Country , but will admit here a more particular tract , as belonging properly to this Kingdom . ( 13 ) First then for Bohemia it self , it contains about thirty Cities , which are immediate subjects to the King , ( as Quadus calls them ) besides many others , which are held in possession of the chief Princes , Primates , Barons , Counts , and Nobles of the Country . The Metropolis is Prague , heretofore know by the names of Bubienum and Morobudum , saith Maginus ; but rather I think ( by the situation ) it should be the same which Ptolomy calls Casurgis . It was compassed with a wall , by Primaslans their third King ; and received the name of Prague , by the wise Lubussa a Limine , which they say is called Prague in the Bohemian language . It is indeed a very stately City , seated in the middle of the Country in the River Multaria , and compared by some to Florence . It consists of three Cities which are called the old Town , the new Town , and the little Town . The old Town is the chief , and is adorn●d with may illustrious buildings . The new Town is divided from the old ▪ by a large ditch . And the little Town stands on the other side of the River Mulda , but is joyned to the old Town , by a stone bridg of twenty four Arches . It was made an Arch-bishops See by Charles the Emperour and King of Bo●emia , was once the chief University ; but that now is removed to Lipsia , in the Province of Misnia . It is the Regal seat of Bohemia , and here was the King and Queen when it was taken by the Imperialists . ( 14 ) The other Cities of this Region which are worth the noting , are ( 2 ) Egra . It stands upon the River , from whence it beares the name : before it was called by Ptolomy , Monosgada , on the West end of Sylva Gabreta , that part of the Hircinia , which portends toward Franconia . It was a City Imperial , till the right was sold by Lodovicus Bavares to Iohn King of Bohemia . It is a very strong City fortified as well by Nature as Art , for the most part is built upon a Rock . It is in compass two miles within the walls , and with the Suburbs three . Not far from it , there is a fountain of a kind of sharp wa●er , which the Inhabitants drink Instead of Beer . ( 3 ) Krens , toward Austria , on the North side of Da●ubius . ( 4 ) Pi●sen , on the West of Bohemia , a City which long held out against General Tilly , by the defence of the now Count Man●●ield , but was at last betrayed by some of his Captains . ( 5 ) Lan●●● , North west from Pilsen , noted for the most fruitful place in the whole Region . ( 15 ) Now the out Provinces , which are part of the Kingdom , though not of Bohemia , are first L●●atia : It Iyeth betwixt the Rivers Albis and Odera , and the Mountains of ●ohemia . On the West it hath Saxony . On the North and East Brandenburg . On the South Silesia . It is divided into the higher and lower L●satia , and is watered with the River Niss● . It is indeed part of Saxony , though under rule to the King of Bohemia . For both this and Silesia was given to Vratislaus by the Emperor Hen●y the ●ourth . It is a very fruitful Country , in most kind of grain : and the Inhabitants , though employed much in Husbandry , yet are they a warlike people , as most of Germany , and so they have been tried , by the Duke of Saxony , and others of the Emperors party : though they have been by number and main strength over-born . The first that was surprised was Bantsen : but the Metropolis is ●orlit●ia , next Zittan , &c. No soil nor Customes differ much from the next Province . ( 6 ) Silesia on the West hath part of Bohemia , upon the North Dusatia , and part of Poland , upon the South Moravea , and upon the East Polonia . At the beginning , it was part of the Hircinian Forest . It is watered with the River Odera , and from hence took her name , as Conradus Celtus delivers it , Lib Amorum 2. Eleg. 5. Hic Odera ( à priscis qui nomina Suevus habebat ) Nascitur , & Godani praecipitatur aquis . Suevos qui Siesum socium sibi convocat amnem : A quo nunc nomen Slesia terra gerit . But Iohannes Crato , a Silesian , rather thinks that the name came from the Q●adi : a people that heretofore inha●●ted these parts : and the rather , for th●t the very Q●adi in the Slavonian Tongue , signifieth the same which S●l●sium did in the S●xon and old German . That they did possess this Prov●nce is agreed upon by most : but where they were before seated , Geographers somewhat differ . Ptolom● placeth them by the Hir●inian , under L●na sylva : and others not far off . It was the people which in their war with M●rcus A●tonius the Emperour ) were sca●tered with thundring and lightning , obtained by the prayers of the Christian Legion . For when the R●man was driven to such straight , that he could foresee no help which might come from man : he put himself upon their prayers to God for his deliverance . A strange hope that he could believe in their faith , and yet not in that God , in who● they believed . But the Almighty was pleased to shew his power , and force the very heathen ●o honour his people . For here ended the fourth Persecution , 174. and the Christian Legion was surnamed the Thunderer . ( 17 ) The air here is somewhat cold , but mild : and the Land ●ertile . The Inhabitants good Husbandmen to make the best . They have a kind of forced Wine , which the meaner sort drink freely . The richer have it sent from those neighbouring Provinces which are better stored . The chief City is Perslaw or Vratis●avia , which takes name from her Founder Vratislaus , and in honour of him giv●● the Letter W in her Arms. About the seat of this City Ptolom● placeth Budorgis ; insomuch that some think this was raised out of her ruine . Not far off , there is yet to be seen the remainders of statel● old buildings , which are supposed to have been the houses of the ancient Quadi . I● the year 1341. ●t was ruined by fire : but built again with stone , and it is now one of the stateliest Cities of Germa●y , for ●xcellent buildings and fair streets . It is an Archbishops See , and an Academy . The rest are Neissa Ni●sa ● Bishops See , and a fair Town , Glats , Oppolen , Olderberge , Glomor , &c. Maginus numbers 15 Dukedomes in Silesia , whereof six remain in their ancient families : the rest for want of heirs are ●allen to the King of B●hemia . But the two chief of name are Ligintz , and Swevitz . The first is immediately the Kings : Swevitz too is under his government , but yet hath a Duke of its own , which is honoured with the title and revenues . ( 18 ) Moravia is bounded on the North and East with Silesia : on the West with Brandenburg ; on the South with Austria and Hungary . It was heretofore called Marcomannia , received the latter name from the River Moravia , which runs through the Country . It yields plenty of Corn , Wine , Fish , and People , which use a kind of confused mixt language of Sclavonick ▪ Bohemick , and Tutonick . In plowing up their grounds there hath been oftentimes found a certain Coyn of the Roman Emperours Marcus Antonius , with this inscription de Marcomannis ; which the Inhabitants interpret to be of the Spo●ls whi●h the Roman took from the Marcoman●i , who inhabited this Region . For certain it is , that this people were vanquished by Marcus Antonius , as appears in their Historians . The People were converted to Christianity by Methodius : Their chief City is Olmuzium Olmuz , an ●niversity , Brin , &c. It is reported by Dubrarius , that in Gradi●co , a part of this Province , there grow eth a kind of Myrrhe and Frankincense out of the ground , which in likeness resemble the hidden parts of man and woman . It was first added to the King and Kingdome of Bohemia by Sigis●und the Emperour , in the Reign of Albertus . GALLIA map of Gaul The Description of FRANCE . No people but are ambitious to win upon Antiquity as far as their Line will reach . Among others , the French are great prerenders to that Title , and fetch their original from Mesech the sixth son of Iapheth , not above an hundred and fifty years after the Ark ●ested . But this passeth not for currant truth among her own Historians ; and therefore is not the plea which gives France here the second place in my Division of Europe . I observe rather her situation , which ranks her next to Spain East-ward : and that was the course proposed in my general Description . ( 2 ) As for her Inhabitants , the first certainly , which we can make good , were the Gauls : A people of whose beginning we can give no unquestionable account : yet this of them is most sure , they were a Nation of noted valour above four hundred years before Christ. It is ●ow full two thousand and twelve since they sacked Rome , and took the Capitoll . In the memory of that great ▪ Action we may claim a part ▪ For first were themselves conquered by the two ●oble Brittish spirits , Brennius and ●elinus Kings of England ; and a●ter led on by them ( if we may trust the story ) unto tho●e glorious adventures , which have to this day continued their fame almost above any other Nat●on . Let the proof res● upon my Author . This saith Matthaeus west mon●ste●iensis out of the Roman History . ( 3 ) ●●ecenta millia ●allorum ad sedes novas querendas pr●●ecti ducibus B●lin● & Brennio Romam invaseru●t , ibique diu morati ●unt . Sed mille libras auri praemium discessionis ● Romanis suscipientes , mox diversis agminibus alii Grae●iam , alii Macedoniam , alii Thraciam petiverunt , & sua prole velut quodam examine totam Asiam replerunt . Tantus inde terro● Gallici nominis & armorum , invectaque f●licit●s ●rat in illis dieb●s , ut r●ges orientis si●e ●●rcenario ●●ru● exer●itu ulla-bella gerere non pr●su●e●ent , nequepulsi à r●gno ad alios quam ad Gallos con●uger●●t , Non enim aliter Maj●st●tem suam tutari , ●●qu● amis●am re●●p●rare se posse nisi Gallic● virtute arbitrabantur . Itaq●e in auxilium regis Bithi●●i●●vocati ; reg●●m cum eo peract● vict●ri● diviserunt , eamque regionem ●●llo-Graeciam cognominav●runt , which we now call Gallatia . And thus for a time their Victories carried all before them : yet at last they had their turn too of ill Fortune , were expulsed Ro●e by C●mi●●●● , fared as their neighbours did , and became tributary to the ●mpire . ( 4 ) Then did the name of Gallia comprehend a large portion of Europ● , besides that which we now call ●rance ; and was divided by the antient in Cisalpinam : which indeed was a part of Italy ; that which we now call Lomb●rdy : and Transalpinam , which Pliny cal●s Comata from the curled ●air of the Inhabitan●s , and Ptolomy , Celto Galatiam , as the Greeks gave it . Nor yet was this equal to the name of France , but was again divided by Caesar in his Commentaries . ( 1 ) in Belgi●am , which for the most part belongs to Germany . ( 2 ) Celtican , and ( 3 ) Aquitaniam . After him ; Ptolomy gives a third ●ivision into four parts : ( 1 ) Aquitaniam , ( 2 ) Lugdnnensem , the same with Caesars Celtica . ( 3 ) Narbonen●em , or Braccatam , and ( 4 ) ●elgicam . ( 5 ) We must here pass by the out-reaches of Belgia and the rest , and confine our tract to those part● which are governed by one King. And though it retain still the antique appellation , which the Inha●itauts received from the Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , for their beauty and white colour ; yet is ●t best and most properly known by the name of Franc● , from the Franci , or Francones , a people of Germany that over-ran these parts , and subdued most of them to themselves . ( 6 ) Now the limits of this new Gallia or Fr●nce are West ward the Pyrenean Mountains , which divide her from Spain , and run cross the Isthmus , that joyns both the Kingdoms . They were very famous for rich Mines ; insomuch that being once fired by Shepherds , th● gold and silver run streaming down into the lower Countries called up the Inhabitants to prey ; and was the first occasion of a forein entry upon those parts . East-ward it lieth upon Germany , South●E●st it is sev●red with the Alpes from Italy . Northward it is bounded with our English Seas , and South-ward with the Mediterraneum . Her chief Rivers reckoned by Maginus are ( 1 ) Garnana Garone the greatest . ( 2 ) Ligeris Loyre the sweetest . ( 3 ) S●quana or Seyne the richest . ( 4 ) Rhodanus Rosne the swiftest : to these we may add , ( 5 ) Some , upon which standeth Amicus . ( 7 ) Her air is healthful , and her grounds fertile ; abounds almost with all commodities that may make her one of the happiest Regions in Christendome , yet her greatest plenty is of Corn , Wine , and Salt ; which she distributes among her neighbouring Nations : and enricheth her self with such commodities from them as are not so fully afforded within her own limits . The women do partake of their Countries fruitfulness : Insomuch that as the earth is scarce able to bear her plenty , so her plenty could hardly sustain her people , had she not a vent for them into Spain , Italy , Germany , England , and other Countries : And yet were there long since reckoned Habitatores ●upra quindecin milliones , inter quos octodecim millia nobillium , by Maginus . ( 8 ) In so great a multitude we must look to find as much variety of customes and dispositions . It was the report of Caesar long since ▪ and seconded by a late authentick Author , Gallicas gentes lingua , legibus & institutis inter se differre : multa tamen multis esse communia . For the most part they are of a fiery spirit for ●he first onset in any action , but will ●oon flagg . They desire change of Fortunes : and pass not greatly whether to better or worse . Their women very jo●und , of a voluble tougue , and as free of their speech , complemental to strangers , and win more by their wit than their beauty : one and t'other are great enticers of mens affections ; and they enjoy them as freely and securely , without either check of conscience , or care of report . It is esteemed Vitium gentile , and indeed they can hardly hear ill for it from any there , which is not equally guilty . Very factious , not only in carriage or publick affairs , but in their private families , which proceeds for the most part from a self●conceit of their own wit and wealth : and those will hardly admit a superior . Their Nobility have been reported to be liberal ; but I suppose that fashion is now worn out : My self have specially noted the contrary in divers ▪ which respect their purse more than their honour , and let pass the service and deserts of worthy persons unrewarded , as if their gracious acceptance were a sufficient return of thanks for any office a man can do them . They are practised to this garb by their pesantry , whom they reckon but as slaves , and command as their proper servants , which the poor sneaks take as a favour , and are glad to be employed by their betters , that by their protection they may stand more free from the injury of their equals . For the meanest of them are cruel , and affect to oppress their adversary , either by open violence or suit in Law , though to their own ruin . They are very ready to take Arms , and serve in the defence of King and Country : need no more press than the stroke of a Drum ; but are as rash in their atchievements . They will not wait upon Counsel , but run as far on , as upon their strength they may , and when they find that fails , they will as soon give ground . ( 9 ) It hath had heretofore ( and yet breeds ) men of great esteem for Learning and Religion . St. Bernard , Calvin , Beza , and Ramus were French , and many others , both of the Romish and Reformed Churches . For as yet the people stand divided betwixt both , but not equally . The Papists are like to continue the stronger hand , as long as their holy Father shall make murther a meritorious act : For by their several Massacres they have destroyed many assemblies of the Hugonotes , as they call them . The greatest I think that ever was practised by such as had entertained the name of Christians , was at Paris in the year 1572. when above thirty thousand souls suffered Martyrdom , and among the rest , some Personages of great worth and note . ( 10 ) It is subject to a Monarchical government , weilded by one sole and absolute King , which bears the Title of the Christian King of France : his eldest son the Dauphin of France . By their Salique Law , no woman or her heirs may inherit : how justly , I may not determine But yet the English have good reason to examine the Equity : For it cost our Edward the Third his Crown of France , to which he was heir in general by marriage of a daughter . But the truth is , we have been ever easie to part with our hold there , or at least forced to forgo it by our civil dissentions at home , else , after all those glorious Victories of our Predecessors , we might have had some Power more to shew there as well as Title . ( 11 ) There are very many Provinces belonging to this Kingdom , more than will find room here for their full Descriptions in several , and therefore we will reduce as well this new France , as the old Gallia to the four parts of Ptolomies division : ( 1 ) Aquitania , ( 2 ) Lugdunensis , ( 3 ) Narbonensis , and ( 4 ) Gal●ia Ielgica ; To these we will add ( 5 ) the Isles adjoyning . Their principal under●Territories shall be mentioned , as Maginus ranks them . ( 12 ) Aquitania lieth on the West of France , close upon the Pyrenean Mountains and Countries . ( 1 ) Another part of Biscay mentioned in the Map of Spain , and indeed differeth from that but very little . ( 2 ) Gascoign and Guien . The first to this day keeps its name ( with a very little change ) from the Spanish Vascones . The chief City is Burdigala , or Burdiaux , a Parliamentary and Archiepiscopal Seat and University of good esteem , was honoured with the birth of our Richard the Second . Another City of note is Tho●ouse a seat Parliamentary , and supposed to be as ancient as the rule of Deborah in Israel . This Gascogin contains in it the Earldomes of Fory , Comminges , Armeniaci , and the Dutch Albert. ( 3 ) Pictavia , Poictou , on the north of Guien , a pleasant Region and a plentiful . It contains three Bishopricks ; Po●tiers , Lucon , and Mailazai . Her chief Cities are Poictiers , an ancient , and the largest next Paris in all France . Castrum Heraldi once the title of the Scotch Earls of Hamildon . In this Province was fought the great Battel betwixt our black Prince and Iohn of France , where , with eight thousand he vanquished forty thousand : took the King Prisoner and his Son Philip , 70 Earls , 50 Barons , and 12000 Gentlemen . ( 4 ) Sonictonia , severed from Poictiers but by the River Canentell , and so differs but little from her fertility . Her Metropolis Saints . Her other chief Bourg , Blay , Marennes , S. Iohn D'angely , and Anglosme . Betwixt this Country and Poictiers stands ●ochel , a place the best fortified both by nature and art of any in Europe . And is at this ti●●e possest by those of the reformed Religion : where they stand upon their guard , and defend their freedom of conscience against the Roman Catholicks of France . ( 5 ) Limosin , in Limo sita , ( say some ) Maginus takes 〈◊〉 from Limoges her chief City toward the North ; which revolted , and was recovered by our black Prince . Her other Towns of note are Tulles and Vxerca , and Chalaz , where our Richard the first was shot . It hath been by turns possest of French and English , till Charies the Seventh ; since we have had little hold there . ( 6 ) Berry , regio Biturigum , from her chief City Bituris now Burges , an Archiepiscopal See and University . It is exceedingly stored with sheep , and sufficiently well with other Merchandise of value . ( 7 ) Burbone , from her chief City Burbone ( heretofore Boya ) a Dukedom , a●d much frequented by Princes , and the Nobility of France , by reason of her healthful air and commodious Baths . ( 8 ) Turiene , the Garden of France . Her chief Cities ●loys , Amboyse , Taurs , and a little higher upon the Layre stands Orleance . ( 13 ) Lugdunensis or Celtica , lieth betwixt the Rivers Loyre and Seyne , and takes the name from Lugdunum or Lions her chief City . This Province comprehends ( 1 ) Brittany , heretofore Armo●ica , till subdued by Maximinus King of England , about the year 367 : since it hath had the name of Britanny , and for distinction from this of ours , it is commonly stiled Minor Britannia . There is yet remaining a smack of the W●lch tongue , which it seems the Invaders had so great a desire to settle in those parts as a trophy of their Conquests , that when they first mingled in marriage with the Inhabitants , they cut out their wives tongues , as many as were Natives , that no sound of French might be heard among their children . It hath few Rivers , but that defect is ( in some measure ) made up by the neighbourhood of the Sea , insomuch that the Countrey is reckoned one of the most fertile in all France , for Corn , Wine , and Wood. It breeds good Horses , and special Dogs , Iron , Lead , &c. Her chief Cities are Nants , Rhenes , S. Breny , and Rohan . It is divided into Britanniam inferiorem , the base or lower Britanny , West-ward and nearest England , and Superiorem toward the Loire East-ward . Her chief parts are S. Malo and Breste . ( 2 ) Normandy , a part of the Region which was heretofore called Newstria , and took the name it hath from the Norwegians . Their first Duke was Rollo , and the ●ixth from him our William the Conquerour . It was lost from his Successors in the time of King Iohn . Her chief Cities are Rhothomagus or Rhoan , the Metropolis , Constance , and Cane , memorable for the siege of our English Henry the fifth : And Verveile besieged by Philip the second of France , in the time of our Richard the first : which when the King heard , as he sate in his Palace at Westminster ( it is said ) he sware he would never turn his back to France , till he had his revenge : and to make good his oath , brake through the walls , and justly performed his threat upon the besieger . Her principal parts are Harflew : the first which King Henry the fifth of England assaulted ; and New Haven , given up by the Prince of Conde to Queen Elizabeth as a Pledge for such Forces as she would supply him with to maintain wars with the King in defence of Religion . And Diep , &c. ( 3 ) Anjove regio Audegarensis , a fertile Country , and yields the best Wine of France , excellent Marble , and other fair stone for buildings . Her chief City is Anjours , which Ortelius takes to be Ptolomy's Iuliomagum . It is now an University . To this Dukedome there are four Earldomes which owe a kind of homage : Manie , Vandosm , Beauford and Laval . ( 4 ) Francia , which gives name to the whole Kingdom , and received it her self from the German Francones , which before inhabited the great Forrest called Sylva Hircinia . Her chief City , and the glory of France , is Paris or Lute●ia , quasi in luto sita , in compass twelve miles , is reckoned the first Academy of Europe , consists of 55 Colledges . And here was Henry the sixth crowned King of France and England . In this Province stands S. Vincent , where Henry the fifth died : and Saisons , and the Dukedome of Valoys , &c. ( 5 ) Campaigne and Bye partners in the title of Earldom , it is severed from Picardy only with the River . A fertile Country , and hath many eminent Cities . The principal is Rheimes , where the Kings most commonly are crowned , and anointed with an Oyl sent ( they say ) from Heaven , which ( as oft as it hath been used ) never decreaseth . It is the seat of an Arch-Bishop and University of note , especially with our English Roman Catholiques , who have a Colledge there appointed for their Fugitives . And others of note are Troys , and Brye , and Auxerre , and Sans , an Arch-Bishops See , &c. ( 6 ) Burgundia , both the Dutchy and Country . The Dutchy or Burgundia suferiour , and Western , lieth on the South of higher Germany . Her principal places are Digion , Saint Bernards birth-Town , Antun , Bealne , Sologue , and Aliza , once the famous City of Alexia . The County of Burgundy or Burgundia Ihperior , yields not to the choicest Garden in France for fertility of soil , nor to the most renowned for stoutness of Inhabitants . They acknowledge not as yet the French command , no more than Savoy and Lorain : They were under divers Generals , and are called Walloons , corruptly for Galle●s , a trick of the Dutch. Her principal Cities are Besanson , the Metropolis of both Burgundies , Salives , Arboys , Gray , and Dola . ( 7 ) Lugdunense Territorium , Lione an illustrious City . The center of Europe : I mean where Merchants meet for Traffique from all quarters . All these Provinces belong either wholly , or at least , in part , to Gallia Lugdunensis . For indeed some lie divided , and stretch into their neighbours Territories , as Campania into Belgica , and this last Lugdunense is in part under the Government of Savoy . ( 14 ) Narbonensis Gallia on the West hath the Comitatus Armenaici and Comminges , East●ward part of the Alps , North-ward the Mountain Cemenus , and South-ward the French Seas . It is generally a fruitful Country , not inferior in the esteem of Pliny , to Italy it self ; it comprehends the Provinces , ( 1 ) of Languedo , supposed from Languegotia , language of the Goths , it reacheth from the bounds of Armenia and Comminges to the Mediterraneam : Her chief Cities are Narbon , from whence this whole Region receives her appellation , and is reckon'd the first Roman Province in Europe : and Mons pessulame Mont-Pellein , an University most famous for the study of Physick . Nimes where there is at this day many reliques of Antiquity , and Pons Sancti Spiritus , &c. ( 2 ) Provence provincia 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , divided from Languedoc by the River Rhodanus Rhoan . It belongs part to the Crown of France , part to the Pope , and a third to the Prince of Orange . In the Kings portion are Air , a Parliamentary City , ●rles , and Ma●silia , the last built in the time of the Roman Tarquin . To the Bishop of Rome belongs ●●enian , a City and Arch-bishops See , with the whole Comitatus Venissimus . To the Prince of Orange the chief City Aurangia , or Orange , on the River Meine , Estang , Boys de S Poll , &c. ( 3 ) D●●lphine on the North of Provence ▪ regio Allobrogum , and is divided in Delphinatum superiorem and inferiorem : The first contains in it Embrum , where Agaric and Manna is plentifully gathered , and Valentia , &c. The latter Grinnoble , Vienna , Daulphin , Romans . ( 4 ) Savoy Sabadia on the East of Daulphin , a Dukedome , without whose limits stands the well known City Geneva , which entertains people from all Countries of any Religion : But yet enforceth a Law upon fugitives , not common elsewhere : For whatsoever malefactor is there apprehended for mischief done in his own Countrey , suffers as if he had been there condemned . The principal Cities besides are Tarantise , Bele , Moustire , Maurience , &c. To this Dukedom belong Cambrey , on the West side of the Alps , and the Countrey of Bresse , whose heir is intituled Prince of Piemont , a part of Italy , at the very East foot of the Mountains , which ●ever her from this Countrey . ( 15 ) Gallia Belgica the last , is the Eastern tract toward Germany , and as much as belongs to this Kingdom contains only Picardy , which is divided into the higher and lower . The first portends towards the British Seas , and here stands Calice distant but thirty miles from Dover : It is that which Caesar called Portus I●cius , won from the French by our Edward the third , lost by Q. Mary . Upon her Confines , toward England , is the Country of Bononia , and Guinnes , which contain sundry Towns and Villages . The chief ●●lloin , conquered by our Henry the Eighth , but delivered back in the reign of Edward the Sixth . In this Picardy stands Terwin , besieged by King Henry in person , where the Emperour Maximilian served under his Coulours , and received pay as his Souldier . In the lower Picardy stands Ambianum Amiens : the Metropols : Here are the Dutchy of Terache , whose chief City is Guisa , which gave name to the family of the Guises : and the Country of Vermindois , where Saint Quintin stands , Retelois and Retel her Metropolis ; Artelois and La●erre , her 's Ponthein and Aberille . ( 16 ) The Islands which are reckoned properly French , are only those which lye neer in the Atlantick Ocean . They are but few and of no great account . The principal Dame de Bovin , L'ille de Dieu , Marmotier , Insula regis . A NEW MAPE OF Y E XVII PROVINCES OF LOW GERMANIE P. Kaerius Caelavit map of the provinces of Low Germany The Description of BELGIA . IN this we continue still the Description of Belgia , begun in the Map of France . For the title is common as well to those Territories , as indeed to all the North-East Tracts of the old Gallia . The portion hereditary to the French King , was marked out among the rest of his Dominions . The residue ( since it hath been by length of time , chance of war , or at least chance of Fortune , dispersed into the power of several Princes ) is better known to us by the familiar names of the Low-Countries , than Netherlands , Flandars , &c. ( 2 ) In the search of her Original , we may have reference to our precedent Discourse . For questionless it was possest by the Gauls , as the other parts were : aud ( if trust may be given to those Antique Stories , whose truth is almost worn out with age ) she reacheth her pedegree as high as any and likely enough did partake in the Spoils of Rome , when the Capitol was ransaked by the Gauls , under the conduct of our two ●nglish Brothers . For her chief Captain ●elgius , whose memory she preserves to this day in her name , is mentioned by Q●adus andother as companion to Brennius in his expedition toward Macedonia , after they were intreated from Rome . ( 3 ) In the first times they were a stout people , and practised to continual wars by the bordering Germans , which made them as well expert as hardy . It seems Caesar found them so in his tryal : ●or he gives them ( in his Commentaries ) the honour of a val●ant Nation above any other part of Gallia . Yet at last he brought them under , and in time they were expulsed by the Germans ; who for their ▪ neerest speech , and customs are s●pposed , and justly too , the Predecessors to the now Inhabitants . ( 4 ) For her first name I find no other likely account given , than from a City built by their ●elgius ▪ in the Province of Hannonia , where now stands Bavaria . The r●st , Germania in●erior ▪ the Low Countries and Netherlands require no long search : for without doubt they have little other ground , than ▪ her low situation upon the Seas : and indeed it is such as hath oft times endangered her by inundations , and sunk many hundreds of their Towns and Villages , which to this day in some places shew their tops above water at a dead low ebb . Lastly , Flanders , though but a single Province in this Belgia , yet of that esteem , as the whole Countrey bears her name , and may indeed well enough upon the same reason as she took it up . For ( as the most will ) it had its its Etymon à flatibus fluctibusque quib●● tota haec obn●xia est regio . ( 5 ) For on the North it is bounded with a part of the great Sea , and on the West with the main Ocean : On the East with the Rivers Rhene and Mosa and on the South with Loraign , Campaigne and Picardy , parts of the Kingdom of France . It is accounted to be in circuit 1000 Italian miles ; no Country abounds more with Lakes , Pools , and Rivers of great note . The principal are Rhene , Mosa , and Scaldis , 16 others are specially named by Maginus , and more intimated , which afford them great store of Fish , as well for their own use , as supply for traffique to other Nations . ( 6 ) Yet by reason of her watry situation , it must needs be that the air is exceeding moist , and therefore unwholsome : but not so as heretofore . For the multitude of Inhabitants , and those wonderful industrious , have laboured out of many of her marshes , and drawn their Pools into running channels ; and by this means fewer vapours arise , insomuch that now the Natives at last may very well agree with the temper , which ( as Maginus gives it ) incolarum ●anitati necnon digestioni conducit . Their Summer is pleasant , not extream hot , nor abounds it with such troublesome flies and gnats as ours doth . There is seldome any thunder heard , or lightning seen , or Earthquake felt . The reason is the same for all . The Winter is not altogether so tolerable ; but brings with it bleak winds and much rain . Yet betwixt both , the Country is moderately fertile , yields corn and fruit , in some places more , and in some le●s : very few Grapes , and those make but a hard Wine : no store of Mines ; and yet they are as rich as those which have . ( 7 ) For the people are very thrifty , painful , and ingenious in the invention of many pretty things , which draw many other Nations to them for Traffique : and they lie as fit for it , having free access by Sea to and from all the chief parts , as of Europe , so also Asia , Africa , and America , and are as skilful to trace the Seas at pleasure . They have the name for the first Authors of the Compass , Clock , and Printing . They are excellent Artificers , for working of Pictures in glass , for laying Colours in Oyl , for Tapestry and other Hangings : ●in brief , for any Oeconomical commodity , either for use or ornament : and in their own private Families excell any other people . The men are of a goodly presence ; of a cold , or at least no cholerick temper . They neither love nor hate any extreamly ; but will soon forget both a good turn , and ( they say ) an injury . They are not very open , or easie of belief , nor apt to be deceived . Not very proud , nor exceeding base . Not much given to Venus , but more to Bacchus , especially when he presents himself upon an English Beer-barrel . For they will hardly make a bargain before they be well whetted . This is their common character ; but for the best part of it we have found it far other , as in their commerce with us in the East Indies we have found , where by their extream dealings with our Nation , they have made known their unthankfulness for the many benefits our English have shewed them . But I return to their better qualities . Their women are fair , somewhat bold and free in their carriage , but yet sober and honest : excellent housewives , and in some places traffique abroad , while their men play the cot-qu●ans at home . ( 8 ) As in their other businesses , so in their studies they are very laborious , and indeed trouble the world with writing more than they have thanks for : as if they had a right ( since they were the inventers of the Press ) to use it at pleasure ; so they do ; and send forth every 〈…〉 performed by their boys tow●rds a Degree , with a clutter of tedious Anagrams prefixed ▪ ● But 〈◊〉 hath heretofore bred ma●y excellent men in their faculties , Iust●s Lipsius , Erasmus , Rodulph●s , 〈◊〉 , Ortelius , Mercator . And at this day , how many others , good members of the Reformed 〈◊〉 , within the compass of the States government . The rest which are under the Arch-Duke must appear Roman Catholicks . In divers parts of Belgia , the Christian Religion was planted by Wilbrod an English man. ( 9 ) The last quality required in a Nation of esteem ( as they are ) is valour . And indeed I may well place it last . For so it grew upon them since the long war which they have had with the Arch-Duke . Before they lived for the most part in peace ; and as they had but little use of Chivalry , so they had as little heart to it : but were counted a heavy dull people . To say truth , they have hardly yet recovered that censure : for in the managing of their Land-fights especially , they are content enough to give way to other Nations , and will hardly second them in any dangerous attempt . The English have both acted and suffered their parts in the behalf of the Low Countries : and that ( me-thinks ) might have been remembred in the midst of their tyrannical usage of our Merchants . ( 10 ) These Netherlands towards our latter times were divided into 17 Provinces , whereof the most part had several Rites and Governours , four Dukedomes , seven Earldomes , five Baronies , and one Marqueship . But by the next marriages of the heirs to the sundry Titles , the whole at last fell upon one , and was made an entire Government , and known by the name of the Dukedom of Burgundy . Yet still doth each Province retain her proper Laws , liberty of Religion , and other Customes , which their Rulers in succession were sworn to maintain for their parts : and the people again for their security , had this main prerogative left them from the beginning ; that if their Prince should at any time attempt the contrary , they might , after Declaration , proceed to the choice of a new Governour . These Conditions confirmed , it continued for a while peacefully , and by marriage with Mary , heir and last of the house of Burgundy , it fell to Maximilian of Austria , Emperour of the Germans . And his Successour Philip matching in the like sort with Ioan , heir to the Kingdom of Spain , joyned both together in his eldest son Charles the fifth , who by the Mother was entituled to Spain , and by his Father to Bargundy or Netherlands , as for Austria it passed to another brother . Thus came it subject to the King of Spain . And while yet the Emperour enjoyed it , they felt no misery of civil wars among themselves . When he left it , he commanded this charge withall to his son Philip the second , that he should intreat the Low-Countries well . But this he either forgot or neglected : and taking it in foul scorn to be so curbed by the conditions of his Predecessors , began first with a pretence to Religion , and at last embroiled them in a bloudy war , which hath found no end to this hour ; and caused them to cast off the Spanish clog , which they did in the year 1581. and declared by their Writings , that Philip the second , King of Spain , had forfeited his Government of the Low-Countries by breach of his faith . And withall they bound their people by a new oath , never to return to their obedience : which they yet make good against the Arch-Dutchess , who by kindred to the Spanish King , and marriage to the Arch-Duke , is at this time interested in the Government , and therefore in the quarrel . ( 11 ) To her there belongs of the 17 Provinces , ( 1 ) The Dukedoms of Lutzenburg . ( 2 ) Limburg , and ( 3 ) Brabant . ( 4 ) The Earldoms of Flanders . ( 5 ) Artoyse . ( 6 ) Hannault . ( 7 ) Namurcia . ( 8 ) The Barony of Mechlin . ( 9 ) The Marquisate of the holy Empire . To the States are reckoned , ( 10 ) Dutchy of Geldria . ( 11 ) The Earldoms of Zutphen . ( 12 ) Zealand , and ( 13 ) Holland . ( 14 ) The Baronies of Vtrech . ( 15 ) Overissell . ( 16 ) Frizeland . ( 17 ) And Groyning . ( 12 ) We begin with the Dukedomes entailed to the Spanish Faction : and for the easier finding their situation , we will take them as they lie from West to East : And in this order is ( 1 ) Lutzenburg ; It stands betwixt the River Mosa on the West , and the Forrest of Ardenna East : on the South it joyns upon a part of France . Her chief City is Lucenburg , called by Ptolomy , Angusta Romanduorum . In circuit , this Dukedome is 240 miles , and contains in it many other Towns , which have been much battered in the Wars , betwixt the French and Spanish Kings , before the States were at difference among themselves : Th●onville among others is of note for the stronger Bost●nachum , for the chief Merchandise . It is called the Paris of Ardenna , for by some that Forrest is reckoned into this Dukedom . It stands on the East-side , was in Caesars time 500 miles in compass , now about 90. Near to Ardenna is the Spaw Baths , of great fame for the cure of sundry diseases : And hath oftentimes given our false English a pretence to leave their Countrey forsooth for Physick : when they have no other excuse to get free , and joyn themselves with the Romish Catholicks . Maginus reckons into this Region 1168 Villages , besides Castles , with several Earldoms , many other petty Governments . In the South is the Dutchy of Bovillon , belonging to a Peer of France . ( 2 ) Limburg , on the North East of Lutzenburg , divides the Government between her own Duke , and the Bishop of Luick , who commands the Western Tract , as much as contains 24 walled Towns , and 1800 Villages , and hath under him 52 Baronies . Luick the chief City of the Bishoprick is an University , memorable for this one story , above any other in Christendom : That at one time there studied 9 Kings sons , 24 Dukes sons , 29 Earls sons , &c. The Dukes part in the East is not of that fame , either for multitude of Towns and Villages , or command of under territories . In the year 1293 , the heirs male were extinct , and by that means it fell to the Duke of Brabant . The whole Region is exceeding fertile , and affords almost all necessaries except Wine : Among other commodities , it abounds with a kind of stone , of excellent use in Physick , called Lapis Calaminani . The principal City Limburg stands upon the River Wesa . ( 3 ) Brabant on the North of Limburg , which commonly is supposed to have the name from Brachlant , as if a barren soil : but it is otherwise reported , unless towards the North. The people are very jolly , ut veri gravem senectutem sentire videantur : And that methinks should argue plenty . Her chief Cities are Loraign an University ▪ which contains 20 Colledges , and among the rest a Seminary for English Iesuits . Bruxels , and this is the Dukes seat , strengthened with a double wall , and is adorned with very elegant buildings . Bergen ap Some , which is yet fresh in the memory and mouths , since the siege 1622. Bolduc whose people are noted to have preserved the antique valour of their Predecessors , more than any other of the Provinces . Breda was the place of the Prince of Orange , got from the Spaniard by a desperate policy of a small number of Gentlemen , which ventured themselves into the Castle , being conveyed in a Boat covered with turves : when they were past recoil , they were forced to set their best strength forward , as well for their lives as the Victory ; and were blest with a success beyond hope : They mastered the Castle , and the rest soon followed . It was of late recovered by the Spaniards after a long siege , where our English got honour though not conquest , under the conduct of our noble and valiant Earl of Oxford . And lastly , within the compass of this D. is contained , ( 13 ) The Marquisate of the holy Empire , whose chief City is Antwerp ; a Town heretofore of infinite Trading ; had two Marts every year , qualified with an extraordinary priviledge , that during the time no man might be arrested , nor his goods seized : and questionless this invited many which were in debt , and could not have the freedom of tra●tique elsewhere . ( 14 ) The Earldoms are ( 1 ) Flanders : First indeed as well in esteem as situation : For it gives name to the whole Region of the Netherlands : and the Prince writes himself Comes Dei gratiâ : it is the very North west tract of this Belgia : and is divided in Teutonican , Imperatoriam , and Gallicam . The first is the Flandria Flandricans , properly Flanders . The principal Cities are Gandad●m ▪ Gaut , the birth place of our Iohn Duke of Lanc●ster : She is severed by the River Shead , and lets into 26 Islands , and hath passage from one to another by 98 Bridges . Her walls are seven miles in compass . Her other Towns are Burgies and Graveling : Her Ports Dunkirk , Scluse , Newport , Ostend , &c. The two last notable , one for a pitcht field , the other for a long siege . In both the English honourably maintained the right of the States against the Arch●Duke . Flandria Imperatoria is but a small parcel , and borders upon Brabant , is called the Earldom of Hulit , which is the chief City within her Territoties . Gallica Flandria is not of any large extent , but very fertile and pleasant . Her chief Towns are Lilla or Lilse , Duacum Doway an University , Orchais , Tornai , taken by King Henry the Eighth , and ransomed by the Inhabitants for 100000 Duckets . ( 2 ) Artesia , Artoyse , the seat of the Atrebates in Caesars time . Their chief City was then called Atrebatum , now Arras , whence we have our rich hangings and their name . It lieth most on the South of Flanders ; Maginus reckons to her 12 Cities , and 852 Villages . The chief of name beside their Mother Town Arras , are Ayre , Pernes , S. Omer , S. Paul. ( 3 ) Hannonia Hanolt , on the East of Flanders , 60 miles long , broad 48 , contains 950 Villages , and 24 Towns , besides Castles . The chief are Banais , supposed to stand in the same place where the ancient Belgium was built , Mons , Conde , Valenciennes , &c. ( 4 ) Namurce , on the East of Hanolt , a fruitful Countrey , and full of Mines , especially of Iron . It hath but four Cities , 182 Villages . The Metropolis is Namurce , and the rest Charlemont , Valen-Court , Bornies . ( 15 ) The only ●arony of the Arch-Dukes Province is Mechlen , a City in Brabant , which stands almost at equal distance betwixt Lovaine , Bruxels and Antwerp . Before the Spanish wars it was a place of Parliament for the States . Since a great part of it was scattered by unfortunate chance of fire , which catcht among 800 Barrels of Gunpowder . In this stands a Monastery , which at some times hath in it 1600 Nuns ; and within these limits is the power of the Arch-Duke confined : And surely by reason of his infinite charge to maintain war , and the ticklish terms he stands upon for fear of displeasing his Subjects , who ( as he suspects ) may be apt enough to revolt , he can reap but little clear profit , and dare use but as little authority ( 16 ) To the States there hold first the Dukedom of Geldria , which some will have to take her name from Gelduba , once her chief City : whether or not , there appears not now any monument of such a Town . The Province stands on the East of Brabant , and North of Limburg ; It is a very fertile soil ; especially if it be well tilled , it returneth the husbandman a liberal reward for his labour . Her pastures are excellent , insomuch that they feed up their Cattel to an incredible bigness and weight . A report passeth of one Bull which weighed 3200 pounds : It was killed at Antwerp , 1570. It hath in it 22 walled Towns , and about 300 Villages . The principal of account are Neomagus or Namm●gen an Imperial City , stands at the mouth of Rhene , which is called the Vahall . It was honoured with the title of a Vice-County , had authority to coyn money , and was bound to acknowledge subjection to the Emperour only by a small tribute , a glove of Gun-powder , which they were to tender at Aken once a year . Others of note are Ruermund , Arnem , and Zu●p●en . ( 17 ) The Earldoms are ( 1 ) Zu●phen , a Town only in Gelderland , at the North of the River Barikel , where that valiant Souldier , and incomparable Poet Sir Philip Sidney received his last wound . It was joyned into the States strength 1590. ( 2 ) Zeland , it stands in the North tract upon the Seas , from whence it hath the name as it were of Zeland ; And indeed it oft times so falls out , that they can hardly say whether they live in a Sea or upon the Land. Eight Islands have been utterly lost : what remains of this Province is by the water divided into seven Islands Walcheria , in which Islands Middleborough and Flushing : South Beveland , North Develand , Wolfors-dick . These are the Western ; The Eastern are Schoven , Tolen , and Develand . They are most of them a fierce people , crafty in merchandise , good Seamen , and great Fishers . ( 3 ) Holland , or Holtland , a woody Countrey : It is but a small Region , such , as be a man where he will within her compass , he may travel it out in three hours : And yet is it of great fame , and better known to the common sort of people than any of these parts . The Inhabitants heretofore the Batavi : on the West it hath the Sea and Isle of Zeland : on the North the main Ocean . It comprehends about 400 Villages , and 29 walled Towns. The chief are Dordret or Dort , memorable for a Synod held against the Arminians , 1618 ▪ Harlem , a Town which first sent forth a Printed Book into the other parts of Europe : Del●t , Amsterdam , a great place of traffique , Rotterdam , Lugdunum Batavorum , Leyden an University . Among the rest the Hague may claim a room here , though but a Village , yet the fairest in Christendome and sear of the States Council . The report l●eth upon this Province , of Margare● sister to the Earl of ●loris , that she brought at one birth 365 children , all living till they were Christned . ( 18 ) Baronies are ( 1 ) Vltrajactense Vtrecht , on the East of Gelderland , and in part West , North , and South of Holland . It hath the name from her mother City Trajectum : and she hers , ( as is supposed ) from a common Ferry which was there : For before it was called Antonina . It hath four other good Towns , and seventy Villages . ( 2 ) Overyssell or Transisulana on the North of Gelderland : It hath above 100 Villages , and 11 Towns of note . The chief Deventer won by our Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester from the Spaniards to the States : It was once under Government of the Bishop of Vtrech : And the first was Wilbrod an Englishman . ( 3 ) Frizia West Friezland , on the North of Overyssall : It hath 345 Villages and 5 Towns. The chief Lewarden , Harlingham a Sea-town , and Francker a late University . ( 4 ) Groyning a Town only of West - ●riezland , but hath command over 145 Villages , hath her proper laws and jurisdiction of a Province . ( 19 ) These last eight joyn together in an Aristarchical Government , weilded by the LL. the states of the Low Countries , and their assistants . Each Province hath one , and his common Councel is elected out of her own principal Towns ; but the residency of the general Councel of the States is at the Hagua in Holland ; And to this are admitted with equal priviledge of suffrage , their General of their Forces , and our English Ambassadour . HISPANIA map of Spain The Description of SPAIN . IN our Division of Europe , we placed her Regions as they lay from the first Meridian of Longitude in the Azores , and so on towards Asia Eastward . We will not here vary the course which was there proposed , and that gave Spain the precedency , as lying most Westward into the Atlantick Ocean . And indeed she puts forward as well upon her terms of Antiquity , as order of place . For if her 〈◊〉 may be heard , she derives ●●er Being from Tubal , the grand-child of Noah , and would be one of the first Nations of the second world . Likely enough those parts might be inhabited by his Progeny ; but I doubt whether so soon after the floud , as himself lived , and as some would have it , who suppose that he then kept Cattel , and named the Province Taraconensis , from the Hebrew Taraco ▪ a possession of Herds . This and other the like improbable Relations pass over her original . Which as we may not accept for truths , so we have no room here to confute them for lies . We must be content rather to omit those former ages , which give us no light but by Fables ; and begin with the affairs of Spain , which come within the compass of our known and approved Stories . As for the exploits of Hercules , of Gerion , and Cacus , and the rest ; questionless , they had some ground from truth it self , if we knew how to search it forth : and here was their residence , men twelve hundred years by compute before the Romans or Carthaginians enjoyed it . But by reason that the passage of those times , was delivered only in vain fictions , we can warrant nothing for certain till the Syrians there planted themselves in the Isle of Gades : and of them little , till the Carthaginians were called in to aid them against the disturbance of ill neighbours ; when once they were mingled with so flourishing a Nation , they wanted not Writers to record their actions , and sundry turns of Fortune . ( 2 ) The next Inhabitants there of Spain , after the Syrians , and indeed the first which affords us any Story worth observing , were the Carthaginians : and the first cause of their entrance was to defend the Islanders of Cales : but when they had once got firm footing , and sucked the sweetness , they were not to be removed by the easie term of friendship : but there kept hold , till a people stronger than themselves dispossessed them . The attempt was made by Scipio and the Roman forces ; but they withstood their assault with so resolved a courage , and so strong a hand , that it might oft times be questioned Vter populus alteri esset pariturus ? and so held play almost 200 years , and could not be fully subdued into the form of a Province , till the Reign of Augustus Caesar , yet after , they were held to it till Honorius . ( 3 ) About his sixth year was there a second Invasion made by the Vandales , and soon after by the Gothes , which bare sway for above 300 years . The last King was Rodericus , who lost both himself and Kingdom for a rape committed upon the Daughter of Iulian , a Noble Gentlemen , and at that time Embassadour with the Moors in Africa . When the Father had understood of his Daughters unworthy injury , he brought back his revenge with him , 30000 Horse , any 180000 Foot , of Moors and Sarazens ; which discomfited the King , overthrew all the ressistance which he could make , and bespread the Countrey with their Forces , where they and their posterity stood firm , till within the memory of some which yet live . ( 4 ) This change of State was before prophesied , and concealed in a large Chest within a part of the Palace , which both the last King and his Predecessors were forewarned not to discover . But the hope of an inestimable treasure made him transgress : and when he had entred , there appeared nothing but the Portraictures of armed Moors , with a presage annexed , that when the part of the Palace should be forced open , such enemies should ruine Spain . It is now at last but one people , but yet retains the mixtures of those many Nations which have heretofore possest it , Goths , Sarazens , and Iews , who were partly banisht hither by Hadrian the Emperour , and partly sent hither by Vlider Vbit the Caliph after the Moors conquest . ( 5 ) In all this discourse touching the beginning and setling of the State of Spain , it appears not from whence she derives her several names of Iberia , Hesperia , and Hispania . It seems they are more ancient than the entrance of the Carthaginians , and therefore they allow us no certain Story , nor other reason indeed , more than likely conjecture : and in some scarce that . Her first name of I●eria was given by her ancients , from a River that runs almost through the middle of the Countrey ; So saith Maginus , and relies upon Pliny and Iustin for his Authors . Others give it rather to the Iberi , the ancient people of Asia , thas came in under Panus from toward Syria , and possest it before the Carthaginians . Her second name admits as much question : Some fetch it from Hesperus the brother of Atlas , and their twelfth King from Tubal ▪ Others beyond the Moon from the Evening star , because it is situate upon the West of Europe . The last Hispania is supposed from one Hispanus or Hispalus , who reigned in those parts , and was the third in the account of some from Tubal : or else from Hispalis , now Seril : rather we may take it from the fore-mentioned Panus , Captain of the Iberians , by the prefiction of an S. for so the Greeks give it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , and since by their own addition and corruption , it is made Espania , Hispania . ( 6 ) Her whole compass is reckoned to be 1893 English miles : and her bounds are Seas on every side , unless on the East towards France , from which she is severed by the Pyrenaean Mountains . On the West the Atlantick Ocean , on the North the Cantabrick , and on the South the Fretum Herculeum , and other of the Mediterraneum , which divide her from Africa . Her Rivers of note are specially , ( 1 ) Minius of Mingo . ( 2 ) Dorio now Duerus . ( 3 ) Tagus now Taio , famous for her golden sands . ( 4 ) Botis or Guadilquiver . ( 5 ) Iberius now Ebro ; and ( 6 ) Ana or Guadiana , which in one place glides under ground for fifteen miles together , and gives the Spaniard an occasion ( as he will catch at any ) to brag that they have ten thousand Cattel daily feeding upon one bridge . Yet give them their own sense , the truth may be questioned ; For they have not such plenty of meat , as they have of sawce . ( 7 ) It yields indeed abundance of Oranges , Lemmons , Capers , Dates , Sugar , Oyl , Honey , Licorish , Horses . It hath been heretofore noted for rich Mines , insomuch that Hannibal received daily 3000 from one Mine in Spain . The number is not answerable in proportion to other Regions of Europe . Their Cities not so great , nor so many . The reason may be , because indeed their Women are not so fertile to multiply among themselves , and their usage of strangers so uncivil , that very few of other Countries seat themselves there , as in France , England , and Germany . And yet they have of late times sent many Colonies abroad into both Indies . ( 8 ) They are extreamly proud , and the ●illiest of them pretend to a great portion of wisdom , which they would seem to express in a kind of reserved state , and silent gravity , when perhaps their wit will scarce serve them to speak sense . But if once their mouths be got too open , they esteem their breath too precious to be spent upon any other subject than their own glorious actions . They are most unjust neglecters of other Nations , and impudent vain flatterers of themselves . Superstitious beyond any other people : which indeed commonly attends those which affected to be accounted religious ▪ rather than to be so . For how can hearty devotion stand with cruelty , lechery , pride , Idolatry , and those other Gothish , Moorish , Iewish , Heathenish conditions , of which they still savour ? ( 9 ) Yet it hath yielded heretofore men very famous for their excellent endowments , both of wit and Religion . The Apostle himself expresseth a great desire to see Spain , as hoping to do much good among those which had entertained the name of Christ. Osius a learned Bishop in the time of Constantine the Great : And Pacianus mentioned by S. Hierome , Isidore , ●ulgentiu● , Arius , Montanus , Tostatus and 〈◊〉 were all Spaniards : S●neca , Quintilian the Orator ( Lumen Romanae ▪ el●quentiae , as Valla stiles him ) Martialis , Lucan , Silius , and Pomponius Mela , were Spaniards ▪ Trajan the Emperour , Theodosius , Ferdinand the Catholick , and Charles the Emperour were Spaniards . To this day it breeds good Souldiers , ●low , but sure , and successful in their Conquests . Yet such as prevail more by art than valour . Their continual scarcity of victuals inureth them to hunger and other hardness , which oft times wearieth out their enemy , and makes him yield at least to their patience if not to their strength . ( 10 ) She hath been subject to many divisions , according to the humour of those that have been her Lords . The first of note was made by the Romans in Citeriorem , which lay nearest to their Territories , and Vlteriorem , which was all the extent , beyond the River Iberus ad fretum usque Herculeum . The second was by them too , in Baeticum the whole tract beyond the River Ana South-ward . ( 2 ) Lusitanium Northward , toward the Cantabrick Ocean , and ( 3 ) Terraconensem Eastward , joyning upon France . When the Moors enjoyed it , they rent it into twelve parcels , a multitude of petty royalties . Arragon , Catalonia , Valentia , Castile , Toledo , Biscay , Leon , Gallicea , Murcia , Navarre , Corduba , and Portugal . And these yet retain the name of Kingdoms , but their government was long ago recovered into the hands of five , which bare the titles of Castile , Arragon , Granada , Navarre , and Portugal . It was of latter times contracted into the three Kingdoms of Arragon , Castile , and Portugal , but is in the power of one King , called the Catholick King of Spain . We stand to this last division as most proper for our times , and best befitting my brief Discourse . Give me leave to add the Islands which lie near to each Kingdom . ( 11 ) The present state of Arragon comprehends three of those Kingdomes , as it was scattered by the Moors and Sarazens . ( 1 ) Arragon it self , which lieth on the South of Navarre , on the East of Castile , on the North of Valentia , and the West of Catalonia . The ancient Inhabitants were the Iaccetani , Lutenses , and Celtiberi : her chief City Caesar Augusta . ( 2 ) Catalonia : It lieth betwixt ▪ Arragon and the Pyren●an hills . It is supposed a mixt name from Gothi and Alani , people which heretofore possest it after the Vandals had lost their hold . The Region is but barren ; yet it hath in it many Cities , the chief Terra cona , which gave name to the whole Province , called by the Romans , Terraconenses . ( 3 ) Valentia , which on the East is touched with the Mediterraneum , on the North with Castile , on the South with the Kingdom of Murcia . It is reported for the most pleasant and fruitful Region in all Spain ; it hath her name from her chief City , and as Maginus relates , admits as yet of 22 thousand Families of Moors . In this is the University where S. Dominick , Father of the Dominicans , studied ; and the old Saguntum besieged by Hannibal , now Morvedre . ( 12 ) The state of Castile as now it stands , comprehends all the rest of those scattered Governments , as were possest by the Moors , Portugal only excepted . And first Castile it self , both the old which joyns with Arragon on the East of Portugal , and the west of Navarre ; and the new which toucheth her upon the South . The first abounds not much with fruits , but yet it breeds many Cattel . The Metropolis is Burgos , and the other chief are Salamanca , an University , and Valadolit , once the seat of the Kings of Spain . Now Castile abounds more with Corn , is watered with the River Tagus and Ana : And in this stands the Kings chief Cities , Madrid and Toledo , which was heretofore a propriatory of it self . The rest that belong to Castile are 2. Toledo , however now but a City of new Castile , yet in the division , her Territories spread themselves over a large compass . The City is in the midst of Spain . It was the seat of the Gothish Kings , and successively of the Moorish Princes : now of the Arch-Bishops , who exceed in Revenues any other Prelate in the world , except the Pope . Here hath sate eighteen National Councils in the time of the Gothish Kings 3. ( 13 ) Biscay , heretofore Cantabria , on the North of old Castile toward the Ocean , it was the last people which yielded to the Romans , and after to the Moors . A Mountainous Countrey , but affords excellent Timber for ships , and good Iron . Her Cities are S. Sebastian , Fonterabia , and Bilbao , which stands but two miles from the Sea , and is noted for excellent Blades : some have been tried by the English upon their own Crests 4. ( 14 ) Leon heretofore Austria , on the East hath Biscay , on the West Gallicia , on the North the Cantabrick Ocean , and on the South old Castile . The Region is reported to yield plenty of Gold , Vermilion , red Lead and other Colours , else she is barren , her inhabitants not many , and those live most upon Hunting and Fishing . It is the title of the eldest Son of Castile , as Wales is to our Prince of England . Her chief City is Oveido , which bears part with her in the name of a Kingdom ; and indeed was the Title of the first Christian King after the Moors Conquest . ( 15 ) Gallicia , on the East joyns upon Leon , on the West it is bounded with the Atlantick Ocean , on the North with the Cantabrick , and on the South with the River Mingo . It breeds Iennets in abundance , insomuch that they have been Poetically feigned to be conceived by the wind . Niger writes , that here hath been an incredible plenty of Gold , Lead , and Silver ; that the Rivers are full of a mixt earth , and that the Plough could scarce wag for clods of Golden Ore. There appears now no such matter . The principal Cities are Saint Iago , where S. Iames the Apostle lieth buried , his Reliques kept , worshipped , and visited by Pilgrims . And the other of note especially with us , is Corugna , an excellent Port for Ships , and mentioned oft in our wars with the Spaniards by the name of the Groyne . Here likewise is the Promontory Nerius , called by our Mariners Capo de finis terrae . ( 16 ) Murcia , on the North hath new Castile ; on the South and East the Spanish Seas . It is not much peopled , but yet is famous for several commodities , especially for pure earthen Vessels , and fine Silk . Heretofore it enriched the Romans with a daily supply of 25000 Drachmae of silver . Her chief places are Alicante , whence our Alicant Wines come ; and new Carthage oft commended by our Travellers , for her large and safe Haven ; and lastly , Murcia , a Town which gives name to the whole Region . ( 17 ) Navarre lieth close to the Pirenaean Hills , and as Maginus gives it , is enclosed with Mountains ; and so it is North and East : on the West it hath the River Ebro , and on the South Arragon . The Vascones are said to have lived here , who afterward placed themselves in France , and kept there their name to this day of Vascones , corruptly Gascoigns . The chief Towns are Bampelme , the Metropolis , and Viana , the title of the Navarran Prince . Maginus sets the Revenue annual of this Kingdom at 100000 Duckets . ( 18 ) Corduba , now a City only , heretofore a Kingdom , and included Andaluzia , Granada , and Estremadura ; Equalized almost the whole Province which the Romans in their second division called Baetica Andaluzia hath lost but one Letter of her name since she was possest by the Vandales . From them she was first called Vandalicia : since Andalicia , corruptly Andaluzia . It lieth on the west of Granada , and is a very fertile Countrey . In this Region is the chief City Corduba , whence we receive our Cordavan Leather . The second of note is Sevil , the Metropolitan of Andaluzia , and the fortunate Islands , esteemed the goodliest City in all Spain ; and though ( as Corduba . it was not honoured with the Title of a Kingdom , yet it honoured a Kingdom with her Title , in the opinion of some , which derive Hispania from her former appellation Hispalus . From this shoar they lanch forth toward the Indies , and from hence they send their Sevil Oranges . The Arch-bishop of Sevil is second to Toledo , as well in Revenues as degree . Near to Andaluzia is the Island of Gades , by which the Carthaginians entred into Spain : Since it is called Cadis , and commonly Cales . The English have had their turn in the possession of that Isle . Now again , fortune hath cast it upon the Spaniard . On the very South edge of this Region stands one of Hercules Pillars , which answers to the other Promontory in Mauritania . The Sea betwixt both is called Fretum Herculeum , and Straits of Gibralter . The second Province of Corduba was Granada , on the East of Andaluzia , the West of M●rcia and South of new Castle toward the Spanish Seas . It hath been far more fertile than now it is : yet it still reserves a shew of her former beauty ▪ affords as excellent Sugar , Silk and Wines . The principal Towns of note are , Granada and Malaga the first for Stockins , and the other for good Sacks . The third Province of Corduba ●stremadura lieth on the South of Castile , and is wat●ed through the middle with the River Ana. And in this stands the City Merida , once a Roman Colony , and named by them Augusta Emerita , from the Inhabitants which were there planted by Augustus , and c●lled out of his ancient tryed Souldiers . ( 19 ) Portugal is the third Kingdom in our last division of Spain , and it may well be esteemed one of her largest Territories : for it runs along the Atlantick Ocean , from the borders of Gallicea , as Andaluzia ; on the North it is limited with the River Mingo , on the South with part of the Mediterraneum , the West with the Atlantick , and on the East with the Castiles , Andal●zia ; and Estremadura . Her name some derive à portu Gallorum , Maginus rather à portu Cale , a Haven of that name which was much frequented by Fishermen . It is almost the same portion of Spain , which was heretofore Lusitania , and her people were esteemed the most valiant , crafty and agile Souldiers of the whole Region ; yet now they are held to be simple ad proverbium usque : But it is their neighbour Spaniards ce●sure , who indeed have over reached them in cunning , and brought them under the subjection of their Catholick King , which were before a free State of themselves , and carried with them another Kingdom of the Algarbi , which stands in her very South , and shews the Cape of St. Vincent into the Atlantick Ocean : Give them their due , they are excellent Sea-men , and the best alive to atchieve adventurous actions : For they added to their Dominions many Territories of Africa , Asia , and America , could they have been so fortunate as to have kept their Kingdoms and themselves out of the reach of the cogging Spaniard . ( 20 ) The Country affords not much Corn , but fruit reasonable store , and Mines of several metals , Allum , Marble , good Silks , &c. The chief City is Lisbone , in Latine Vlissipona , supposed to have been built by Vlisses . And from hence they set sail towards the East Indies , to Aethiopia , Brasill , &c. Insomuch that this very City yields more revenue than the rest of the whole Kingdome . Another eminent place of this Region , is the Metropolis and Academia of Conimbria , called before Mo●da . And this briefly is the whole Continent of Spain , but doth not terminate the Spanish Dominions , which commands as well the Islands which lye near in the Atlantick and Mediterraneum , as many other parts of the World besides interminate with other Regions . The Kingdom of Naples in Italy , Dutchy of Millain , Isles of Sicily and Sardinia , the Canaries , Towns and Castles , and Havens in Barbary ; In the West - Indies , Mexico , Peru , Brasil , large portion in the East . ( 21 ) The Islands near Spain in the Atlantick , chiefly the Tarsarae . In the Mediterraneum are the Balears , and those are two principal , Majorica , commonly called Mallorca , and Minorica , commonly Minorca . Other less Islands are Dragonera , Cabrera , Pytussa , Erisa , Vedraw , Gonorello , Dragomago , and Scombraria . ITALIA Petrus Kaerius Caelavit map of Italy The Description of ITALY . ITaly is divided from France and Germany by the Alpes , and stretcheth her self South-East , betwixt the Tyrrhene and Adriatick Seas , almost in just proportion of a mans leg . I may spare my Reader her lavish attributes , which he can hardly baulk , if he will but look into any Author where her name is mentioned . She must ( for me ) and well may , be content here with the brief Elogy of Pliny , to which ( I think ) the wit of man can add but little . Certainly the most blessed seat of man upon earth can deserve no more Italia terrarum omnium alumna , eadem & Parens , numine deorum electa quae c●lum ip●um clarius faceret , sparsa congregaret imperia , ritus molliret , tot populorum discordes linguas , sermones , commercia , ad colloquia distra●eret , & humanitati hominem daret . ( 2 ) Yet to speak truth we cannot abate her much of this title . The mother of Countries we may call her , since most writers agree , that she was first inhabited by Ianus , ( or Noah , as some would report him ) the Father of Nations . It was doubtless a very long time since the World was honest , and deserved the name of a golden age : yet then was she peopled ( as Iustin delivers out of Trogus ) by the Aborigines , whose King was first Ogyges , then Saturn , a man so just , that under his Government there was known no tyranny from their Prince , no disloyalty from the Subject no injury from the Neighbour : They had all one Patrimony , one possession : and where all acknowledge no peculiar , there can be but little cau●e of strife ▪ ( 3 ) I presume not to set down the just year when men were thus ordered : But if you will believe the story of the Gentiles compared in Chronology , by some of late years and better trust , as Munster , Quade , &c. Ianus pater hominum & deorum , immediate predece●●or to Saturn , was in Italy within 200 years after the floud , and received the aged Chronus into part of his Kingdome with him , being expulsed by his son Iupiter out of Crete . Each of them built a City , and left ●●ound of his name for their remembrance : the one Ianua , which to this day hath suffered no farther change than to Genus : and the other Saturnia ; and both in their times gave name to the whole Region : which are not yet fully worn out : though others have since took place ; as Latium , quia hic latebat Saturnus ; Italia ab It alo Siculorum Rege . Hesperia from the Western star ; Au●onia and Oenotria from her excellent Wines . ( 4 ) But this is the largest scope which we can give to her Antiquity . Helvicus and other authentick observers of time , cuts off ( well nigh ) a thousand years from this account of the Aborigines , and placeth their Dynastia 2622 years after the creation : 966 after the flood : and before Christ 1327. ( 5 ) The first change of Inhabitants was forced by Evander the Arcadian , a man of that admirable eloquence that he was called the son of Mercury , but had by chance slain his Father , and was therefore expulsed his inheritance , and advised into Italy by his Mother , a great Prophetess of those times . He removed the Aborigines from their seat , and planted his companions in the same plot of ground , where after Rome was built : and in the Mons Palatinus founded a little Town , which he called Pal●auteum , in memory of his great grand●father . And this was about the year 2710. ( 6 ) About 60 years after , Aeneas arrived in this Countrey from the siege of Troy , was entertained as an amorous suitor by Lavinia , with consent of her Father Latinus : and after the death of his corrival Turnus , King of the Rutilians , was setled heir to the Latin Monarchy after his Father . ( 7 ) From Aeneas to Numitor the succession went on ( not without some rubs ) but suffered no great breach for almost four hundred years : When the title should have fallen to him , being the elder and true heir , he was spoiled of the Kingdom by his younger , Amulius Sylvius : nor could it be recovered , till time had given growth and strength to Romulus and Remus his grand-children , by his daughter Rhea . ( 8 ) The birth and breeding of these two brothers is well known , we need not enlarge their story farther than thus . They were the sons of Rhea , a Virgin which was cloystered up into the Temple of Vesta , by her Uncle Amulius Sylvus , that she might not bring forth an heir to endanger his Title . Notwithstanding means was found , so that she conceived at once two children by Mars , and was delivered among her Sister V●stals . For this , her self ( as the censure was upon such delinquents ) was buried alive : her boys exposed to be destroyed : but were preserved by Faustulus the Kings Shepherd , and nursed by his wife Laurentia , or L●pa , for her bad life . ( 9 ) When years , and their supposed father had taught them their pedegree , and the base tyranny of their Uncle ; they began with revenge upon him , for their mothers quick burial : for their own intended murder , and their Grandsires injury . To be brief , they slew their great Uncle Am●lius Sylvius , and turned the Kingdom to the rightful 〈◊〉 . ( 10 ) Thus when they had once dealt in disposing of Empires , they could not easily return to the Shepherds hook , but bethought them of the like fortune for their own advancement : and stirred not far to make good their purpose , but in the very Mons Palatinus , the place where they suckt their nurse , they drew together a monstrous head of debaucht Shepherds , and built the City , which is now called Rome from Romulus ; who in strife for the name , or ( as some say ) for a disdainful skip over the new walls , slew his brother Rhemus , and was left the sole Founder and Commander of this rascal crew , for so indeed it was , and held in that contempt by their borderers , that they could not by intreaty get wives from them , to continue their succession , till by a guile they had enticed the Sabines to their Pastimes , ravisht their women , and afterward by degrees either made their peace , or wan it with the sword ▪ from the people round about them . ( 11 ) Thus began the Empire of Rome : and was governed at first by 7 Kings in a direct succession to Tarquinius Superbus , who lost both himself and Kingdom , by his own pride , and his Son Sextus rape upon Lucretia . It was next taken up by Consuls , two annually chosen out of the Patritii , or principal Citizens . The third rank were of Decemviri : but they again were dispossest for the like rape of Appius upon Virginia , and Tribunes were constituted of Consulary authority . Then Consuls again in another course ; and for a while Dictators ; which when Caesar had once clapsed , he soon made to himself a power Imperial : and ( though after five years it cost him his life , which he enchanged with Brutus and Cassius for 23 wounds in the Senate-house ; yet ) the liberty of Rome was never so fully recovered , but that soon after the Government fell upon Angustus , by the death of Anthony and deposing of Lepidus , who for a while were joyned with him into the Triumviratus . ( 12 ) Th●s hold was scarce ever lost clearly to this day : though by the changing of the seat Imperial from Rome to Bizantium , in the reign of their forty third Constantinus : by the division into the Eastern and Western , in the time of Theodotius : by the many invasions of the Goths , Huns , Vandals , Alani , Burgundians and Lombards , it comes now far short of that full glory in which it once shined . ( 13 ) Yet is Italy still as before a happy soyl , pleasant and fertile : at all times moderate weather and healthful air : full of variety as well of living creatures , as Plants , Corn , Wine , Oyl , Linnen , Herbs , &c. And can afford into other Countries , Rice , Silks , Velvets , Sattins , Taffataes , Grogram , Rash , Fustians , Gold-wire , Armour , Allom , Glasses , &c. The rich are very rich : for wealth will come , with much labour , in great abundance : but the poor are extream poor ; for they are most of them very idle . ( 14 ) Her chief Rivers are Padus or Poe , Athesis , Rubica , Tyberis , Arnus , &c. And her chief Mountains are the Alps , and Mons Appennius . The first are in height 5 dayes journey , covered with snow , and from thence have their name à nivibus albis . They have two passages from Germany into the Countrey , and three out of France . From Germany , by the Valtoline and by Trent . Out of France through Provence and Liguria : through the hills Genura to Lombardy : and through the Countrey of Turaign . The Appennine Mountains run at length with Italy , like the ridge of a mans back , and is called indeed Spina . The measure of Italy is from North-west to South-East about 1020 miles , and from the two Seas cross in some places 410. ( 15 ) The Inhabitants are of a sad temper , solid judgement , witty , Politick , and frugal : yet they are as deeply engaged to their peculiar vices ; hot letchers , and those seldome stand quit from that horrible torture of jealousie over their Wives , for it measures others actions by its own rule ▪ Both in them are incredible ; and makes treachery and murder seem no fault in their eye , if they be provoked by suspition . Little friendship with them but for advantage ; and a man must beware that he venter not farther upon those terms , than he may well step back , lest he be betrayed ( perhaps forced ) to a love worse than their hate ; for they are most unnatural in their lust . The Women when they have their free liberty differ not much , but their close keeping either hinders , or at least hides their faults , so as they appear modest , lovely , and witty , for as much as they dare speak . ( 16 ) For war and learning , it bred in times past the mirrour of both ; Camillus , Fabius Maximus , Scipio , Pompey , Caesar , Cicero , Livie , Tacitus , Virgil , Ovid , and many hundreds which yet prompt our tongues and pens with examples of goodness in several kinds . Nor hath it lost that glory in this age ; For that Nation directs not their travellers into these parts , to see , hear , and partake of their excellent learning , though they compass it with great expence , and venture through dangerous hazzards , by reason of their treacherous dispositions , and cruel barbarous usage of such as shall in any light circumstance seem to be averse from their idolatrous suspition . But their Universities are many , and very famous ; Rome , Ferrara , Naples , Salernum , Venice , Padua , Verona , Florence , Millain , Mantua , &c. ( 17 ) I must omit those many divisions of Italy , made first by Cato in Appenninam , Cisappenninam , Transappenninam . By Pliny in Liguriam , Latium , &c. By Strabo in Venetiam , Lucaniam , Apaliam , Romam , &c. By Ptolomy into 45 several Nations . We will rest in the latest , which best ●its the present state , and numbers ten Provinces . ( 1 ) The Kingdom of Naples . ( 2 ) The Land of the Church . ( 3 ) The Commonwealth of Venice . ( 4 ) The Dukedom of Florence . ( 5 ) The Dukedom of Millain . ( 6 ) The Dukedom of Mantua . ( 7 ) The Dukedom of Vrbin . ( 8 ) The Principality of Parma . ( 9 ) The State of Genoa . ( 10 ) The State of Luca. ( 18 ) The first is the Kingdom of Naples in the South part of Italy , and is the most fertile : it is bounded with the Seas , unless on that side towards the Papacy . It is of large compass , and comprehends many Provinces . ( 1 ) Campania faelix , or terra laboris , and in this stands Naples the Metropopolis : and Cuma , where the Sybyls Cave was , by which Aeneas went down to Hell ▪ And not far off is the lake Avernus . ( 2 ) Abrazzo , her chief Towns of note are Sulmo and Aquine , the birth-place of our great School-man Thomas Aquinas . ( 3 ) Calabria inferior . The chief City Salernum , an Academy , famous for Physick . ( 4 ) Calabria superior , called Magna Grecia , from a multitude of Greek Colonies , which there built Cities , and possest a great part of the Countries . The principal of note was Tarentum . ( 5 ) Terra Di Otranto , for her Metropolis Otranto , once Hydruntun . And here stands Brundusi●m , famous for one of the best Havens in Christendom . ( 6 ) Puglia , and her chief City was Arpinum , Tully's birth-place . ( 19 ) The Land of the Church lieth on the West of Naples , and South-East of the Common-wealth of Venice : North and South she crosseth from the Adriatique to the Tuscau Sea. Her under-Provinces are ( 1 ) Romandiola : and her chief Cities Bononia , and Ferrara , and Ravenna . ( 2 ) Marchia Anchonitana , in which stands Loretta , the place where so many miracles are performed by our Lady , as they deliver among the rest of their Legends . ( 3 ) Ducato Spoletano : and in this Asis , where Saint Francis was born . ( 4 ) Saint Peters Patrimony , a large portion : and I believe more than ever he enjoyed , or could leave to his heirs . Her ancient Towns , well known and oft mentioned in the Roman Stories , were Alba , the seat of the Sylvian Kings , and Ostia , built by Ancus Martius , and Tybur , Preneste , the Ga●ii , the Veii , and that which bustles for the place above any other in Christendome , Rome her self : we will not repeat her beginning : she was then but two miles in compass : but after she grew far , she burnished to 50 miles about ; upon the walls 740 Turrets , and the Inhabitants innumerable . For those memorable actions which were performed in her under the Antique Empire , we will refer the Reader to a particular Description , derived wholly to that purpose . As it is now , it stands somewhat lower on the banks of Tiber , in the Campus Maetins : she retains yet 11 miles round , and 200000 Inhabitants , a great part Friars , and such odd idle fellows , which pretend to Religion , for want of other means to live : cloyster themselves up to a single life , only to avoid the charge and incumbrances of marriage , not to separate themselves from the world , or desires of the flesh : for among them they maintain commonly 40000 Curtizans in good custome , and so rich , that they are able to pay 30000 Duckets yearly to the Pope . The buildings in which they most glory in , are the Church of Saint Peter , the Castle of Saint Angelo , the Vatican Library , and the Popes Palace . The truth is , there is pride enough to attire the Whore of Babylon , as there can hardly be any other meant than Rome : she sits upon the Beast with seven heads : for she was built upon seven Hills , Palatinus , Capitolinus , Viminalis , Aventinus , Esquilinus , Caelius Quirinalis ; was ruled first by seven Kings , and hath been since subject to seven several forms of Government ; if you joyn the Popedom to those former which I have now mentioned . ( 20 ) The Common-wealth of Venice , on the North of the Papacy , is a large Territory , and is now as famous for State-policy , as it hath been heretofore glorious for warlike atchievements . The Inhabitants were first a people of lesser Asia , and assisted their neighbour Trojans in their ten years quarrel with the Greeks . So long since they were known by the name of Heneti : and that differs not much from Veneti as they are now called . Though they have a Duke , yet it is a free State , and governed by an A●istarchy : for he is ordered to the very cloaths on his back , by a certain number of the chief Citizens of Venice , ( for that is their Gentry ) and hath his allowance out of their treasury ( little enough to keep him from the thought of tyranny ) about 40000 Duckets by the year . The City it self is eight miles round , built upon 72 Islands , five miles from the firm land , but for convenience of passage is alwayes furnisht with Boats , and hath 4000 Bridges . Their Arsnal keeps in continual readiness 200 Gallies . In their Magazin of War , there is ever furniture for 100000 men at Arms. The younger brothers of the Gentry may not marry to increase the number beyond maintenance : yet to make up their liberty , they allow them stews . Her Provinces are ( 1 ) Marca Trarigniana , and her chief Cities are Truisco and Padua ( the University best frequented by Physicians , by reason of her rare garden of Simples , ) and Verona , with many others . ( 2 ) Frinby . ( 3 ) Histria . ( 4 ) Part of Dalmatia . ( 5 ) The Islands , Candie , Corsica , Ithaca , Zant , Leucadia , Cythera , &c. ( 21 ) The Dukedome of Florence betwixt the Appennine Mountains on the North , and the Tyrrhene Sea on the South , hath on the West Romagna , and Piss●o on the East . A great part of it was Tuscany , and gives yet to their Prince the title of great Duke of Tus●any . Her chief Cities are Florence , where the most ●legant Italian is spoke familiarly , and Pisa , which the Florentines besieged and conquered , by the valour of our English Sir Iohn Haukewood , who raised himself by his brave carriage in the wars , ha●ing been before but a very poor Taylor in Essex ; the third is Pistoya , where first began the quarrel of the Gue●fes and Gabellines . ( 22 ) The Dukedome of Millain in Lombardy , on the South of Traginana , North of Liguria , West of Mantua , and East of Piedmont . A pleasant and rich Province . Her chief City Millain of seven miles compass , the seat of St. Ambrose his Bishoprick . ( 23 ) The Dukedom of Mantua on the East of Millain , is of circuit not much short of Florence ; and her chief Town is Mantua , who may still glory in the birth of that excellent Pot Virgil. It is very strongly situated , and fenced on three sides with water a quarter of a mile broad : and the rest is guarded by a firm wall . And to this Principality belongs the Dukedome of Mount-ferrat in the South East of Piedmont . ( 24 ) The Dukedom of Vrbin , in the midst of the Papal Territories , and upon the North side of the Appennine Mountains . Her principal City is Vrbin , the birth-place of another Virgil , though not of equal ●ame ; yet one in whom we have somewhat more interest ; for he writ an English History , being at that time here resident , and Collector of the Popes Peter-pence . Besides this , here are two hundred Castles . The rock of S● . Leo , Marivol , &c. Some other Towns , as Cabo , Pisanco , &c. ( 25 ) The Principality of Parma on the South of Mantua , and the North of the Appennine ; East of Millain , and West of Medena ; Besides other commodities , which she yields in equal plenty with other parts of Italy , sends a pleasant Cheese into other Countries , which we call Parmasans . And her chief City is Parma . This Principate carries with it Mirandula and her Territories , a place heard of by the common mention which is made of learned Picus de Mirandula . ( 26 ) The state of Genoa is contracted now from that large compass which heretofore it fetcht in . It contained once Liguria and Capua , with the Taurica Chersonesus , Hetruria , and a fair company of Islands in the Greek Seas . Little left at this time upon the main Land besides Liguria , and that lieth betwixt the Rivers Varus and Marca , hath the Alps on the West , which divide her from Provence ; Hetruria on the East ; on the North of the Appennine Mountains , and on the South the Tyrrhene Seas . She hath her name from the chief City built by Ianus . It is in compass eight miles ; and the houses for two stories high are built with marble . The people noble minded , and forward to any honourable action , be it in Wars by the Land , or hazzard by Sea. One Christopher Columbus is sufficient to make good this Elogy , for whose birth she deserves to be honoured to the Worlds end . The women of Genoa are the most happy of any in Italy ; for they may see a man , and speak , and be courted , if not too boldly , without suspition of their friends , or jealousie of their husbands . ( 27 ) The state of Luca is in Tuscania , and comprehends the Territories and City Luca , built by Lucum● King of Italy upon the River Serchius . It was once the rendezvouz of Pompey , Caesar , and Crassus . Here they joyned their forces in their great attempt . This hath been the Emperours , the Genoa's , the V●netians , the M●llanois , and the Florentines , in their several turns : They now rest under the protection of the King of Spain . HUNGARIA Petrus Kaerius Caelavit map of Hungary The Description of the Kingdom of HUNGARY . IT is not without example of good authoriy , if I take into this Description , not only that part which is now more peculiarly known by the name of Hungary : but the whole Country likewise of Darcia , which was once one with it , though time and fortune have at last severed them : so that each hath now its own Princes , Laws , Customes , Language and Religion , different from other . I the rather take to my self this leave , to avoid both the charge and trouble of ordering for every one a several Table . ( 2 ) First then the Kingdom of Hungaria is on the South-East of Germany ▪ and joyns upon the Dukedom of Austria . They heretofore divided betwixt them the Countrey of Pannonia . Austria was the superior , and this the inferior Pannonia . The government and titles are now dis-joyned ; and Austria hath got the start in power ; for she is the mother of many German Princes , and hath drawn the crown Imperial almost into a succession . ( 3 ) Yet is Hungary still an absolute Kingdom ; and if not so rich and populous as heretofore , it must not take from her honour , since her fortunes sunk not through want of valour , and fault of her former Inhabitants ; but we have been for a long time exposed to hazzard in the defence of Christendome against the mis-believing Turks : and for that it hath been by some stiled the Co●k-pit of the world , where once in a year at least a prize is played , and some ground either won or lost by either party . ( 4 ) The first Inhabitants of this Country were the Pannones ; those were expulsed by the Gothes . And when the Gothes went into Italy , it was le●t to the possession of the Hunni , a Scythian people , which lived before near the Pal●s M●otis ; and when they saw their time , changed their seat : and about the year three hundred seventy three ▪ brake by great multitudes into these parts of Europe , which they held till they were displaced by the Lombards . These last were the Winnili , which lived in Scandia or Scandinaria , a Northern Peninsula , betwixt the German and Hyperborean Seas . Their seat it seems was too barren for their number , and meer want of Victuals forced them to seek better sustenance in some other quarter . They over-ran many Countries , e're they could find any one to their content : Among the rest the Parnonia had her course : and here they continued till they marched into Italy , under the command of Alboinus , where , after 200 years , their Kingdom was ruined by Charlemain . ( 5 ) When it was thus left by Lombards , the Hunnes returned to their former seat : and after some time of rest , grew up to a great Nation , able to encounter the Roman Macrinus , to break his forces , and return victors from the battel . About the year 439. they chose for their King , Attyla , whose inscription was , Attyla Mundizi filius , & Magni Nim : nepos Engadiae natus , divinâ benignitate , Hunnorum , Medorum , Gothorum , ac Danor um , metus orbis , Deique flagellum : An insolent title ; but indeed he was victorious over most parts of the then known world , and bethought himself of enlarging his Territories in Asia and Africa : But that design was drowned in wine and Lust ; which at length brought him to a most miserable destruction ; For in the night time , when he had filled himself with both , as he lay by his Concubine , with his face upward in a dead sleep , his nose gusht a bleeding , and ch●ked him , being not able to recover himself from his back to give it pas●age . ( 6 ) Since this setling , they were once more disturbed by the Lombards , and after by Charles the Great ; so that they were not well ●astned in their possession of this Countrey , till the time of the Emperour Arnulphus , about the year 900. And indeed at this day hardly enjoy it , by reason of the incredible spoils and massacres which the Tartars commit amongst them . This last name of H●ngaria without doubt had the Original from their present Inhabitants and their Predecessors , which at times have peopled this Countrey above 1200 years . ( 7 ) This Hungaria propria is bounded on the West with Austria , on the East with the River Tibi●cus , on the North with Poland and Russia , and on the South with the River Savus . ( 8 ) The Land thus limited , it is hard to believe what most Geographers report of her fertility . That she yields Corn thrice in one year , almost without any tillage or care of the husbandman . Fruit of all kinds in great abundance , and Grapes which make an excellent , wholsome , and rich Wine . It breeds Cattel in such plenty , that this one Countrey , besides store for her own Inhabitants , sends Sheep and Oxen into for eign Nations , which lye about her : and might ( say they ) suffice to feed all Europe with flesh . Venison is not here any Dainty : Does , Hares , Goats , Boars , are every mans meat : and the game common , as well to the Boors as Gentry : And so for Phesant , Partridge , Black-birds , Pigeons , most Fowl , wild and tame . ( 9 ) The earth is enricht with variety of Mines , which yields her plenty of Iron , Steel , Copper , Silver and Gold : Lead she hath not , and scarce at all any Tin. Her Rivers are equally commodious , as well for their own wealth , as fit conveyance of foreign Merchandise by shipping into their quarters . The chief and only one indeed , which belongs properly to this Region , is Tibi●cus or Teissa : and this imparts not her streams to any other Countrey , but fully and freely pays her tribute to the Hungarian , more Fish than can be spent yearly within their own limits . It passeth proverbially upon this River , that two parts of it are water , and a third Fish. The rest which are common to this , with other Countries , are Danubius ( here Ister ▪ ) and Savus , and Darvus , all of them well stored with water provision , and in some places cast up a sand mixt with very good Gold. Here are besides many waters of excellent vertues ; whereof some turn wood into Iron , others Iron into Brass : some very medicinal for sundry diseases : others again so pestiferous , that they kill the creature which doth but taste them . The like is reported of an Hiatus in the ground , unaccessible by any but the ●owls of the air , and those fall suddenly dead with the stench which ascends from it . ( 10 ) The people for the most part are strong , fierce , revengeful , harsh to strangers : briefly , ill-mannered , and worse learned : For they affect not either liberal Arts or mechanick Trades . Yet it affords one of the most reverend Fathers of our Church , good Saint Hierome . Their greatest pride is , their name of a warlike Nation ; and the basest infamy to put up the tearm of Coward . Yet the person charged may not acquit himself upon his upbraider ; but must make good his honour in single combate with a Turk : when he hath overcome him ( and not till then ) he may ( by order of the Country ) wear a Feather , as a note of his true Gentry . The sons only are inheriters . If it chance that the males fail , the estate descends not to the Daughters ▪ but is forfeit to the common treasury . They have no portions with their wives , but a wedding garment ; and till they are married , neither one nor th' other are accustomed to lye in beds . Their language is the Scythian , and their Religion divers : some Papists , more Protestants . They received Christianity above six hundred years since . ( 11 ) Hungary hath been heretofore divided in citeriorem & ulteriorem . The former circa , and the other ultra Danubium . And both again had their division into fifty Counties , as Maginus calls them . Her most illustrio● , Cities are ( 1 ) Buda the Metropolis , and seat of their Kings , before it was taken by the Turk . For pleasant situation , wholsome air , fertile fields about her , stately buildings , and whatsoever else may commend her . Quadus sets her equal with any other in Europe . Vadianus mentions here a stature of Hercules , which himself saw made of brass so artificially , that the very veins were lively expressed : besides the ruines of other rich work , a goodly Library furnisht by Matthias Corvinus King of Hungaria . But at his being there , it was not in the glory that it had been : and not long after was for the most part utterly wasted by the inhumane Turks . it is commonly called Os●en : and is thought by some to be the same with C●rta in Ptolomies descriptions . ( 12 ) ( 2 ) Southward from Buda stands Albanum an ancient Town , which of late they have called Alba , now Alba Regalis ; for it was the place where their Kings were both Crowned and buried . ( 3 ) Strigonium Grau , an Arch-bishops seat and Metropolitan of Hungary . It hath had the several chance of war , was won by the Tark in the year one thousand five hundred forty three , and recovered one thousand five hundred ninety five . In which last action our noble Sir Thomas Arundel took with his own hand the Turkish Banner ; and was honoured by the Emperour Rodulphus with the title of a Count there : and here , by his own Sovereign , Lord Arundel of Wardour . ( 4 ) Quinque Ecclesiae , a Bishops See taken by the Turk one thousand five hundred forty three . ( 5 ) Comara , in a small Island , which takes her name from the Town . And her● it is reported that the grass exceeds in length the height of a man. ( 6 ) ●avarium ▪ not far from Coma●● ▪ and is called Rab. ( 7 ) Neuhensel , where ●●ucquoy was slain in the year one thousand six hundred twenty one ; having adventured too far upon the Hungarians Ambush , with i●tent on●y to have received the order of their Forces , and fittest place for access to bid them battel . And thus of the Kingdom of Hungary , as it is strictly bounded with its own proper limits . ( 13 ) Dacia is on the East of H●ngary , and is divided on the North from Sarmatia by the Carpathian Mountains ; on the South from Greece with Haemus ; and on the East re●●heth the Pontus Euxinus . The first Inhabitants were the Maesti of Asia . Afterward the Daci , or ( as Strabo calls them ) the Dari , a Nation of so slavish a disposition , that the Athenians brought them into a Proverb ; and in their Comedies presented their Sycophants , under no other name than D●●ri . The Country is fruitful and enricht with Mines : their Horses are very comely , a●d their manes so long , that they touch the ground . Their last King , before it was made a Province to the Romans , was Decebalus , who ( as Dion delivers it ) affrighted the Emperour from an assault which he intended , with an incredible number of stakes , stuck up in battel array , and attired in his Souldiers old habits . A wooden shift it was , but served him for the present ; yet after , he was vanquished by Trajan ; and being sunk ( by the fortune of war ) below the hope of recovering his Kingdom , fell upon his own sword ▪ It is now divided into ( 1 ) Transylvania . ( 2 ) Moldavia . ( 3 ) Walachia . ( 4 ) Servia . ( 5 ) Rascia . ( 6 ) Bulgaria . ( 7 ) Bosnia . ( 14 ) Transylvania is the Province of Dacia , and was it self called Dacia Mediterranea , and Ripensis Dacia : Since Transylvania , because it was compassed with Woods ; and septem Castra , from her seven Castles of defence upon the Frontiers , built by the Saxons , who questionless gave her the German name Sibenburgen , which she yet keeps as a remembrance of her residence in these parts . The Country is populous and fertile : It breeds fair and fierce Horses , wild Bulls . Indeed their men in some parts are not very tame . Toward the North , in the Province Zaculcia , they live most upon the spoil , maintaining continual war with the Turks and Germans , and acknowledge no difference of worth or degrees among themselves . Their Government , or rather want of government , is compared to the Helvetian . Three places they have , H●sdy , Corbay , and Sceply , whither they resort to determine of their State busines . The chief Towns of Transylvania , are Harmenstad , Alba Iulia , or Weisingburg , Claneenburg , Schlesburg , Millenbachium , Coronae , or Cronstant . ( 15 ) Moldavia lieth in the North of Transylvania , and reacheth as far as the Euxine Sea : on the West it hath part of Ruthenia . This Country hath been by course in the several possessions of the Emperour of Germany , the King of Poland , and sometimes the Turk , thereafter as it was cast by chance of war. It was a Vayvodate , and her chief Cities Occazonia , Fuchiana , and Falezing . To this Moldavia belongs the Countrey of the Bessi , mentioned by Ovid in his 6 de Tristibus . Vivere quàm miserum est inter Bessosque Getasque . They were a people of Thrace , not far from Pontus , who lived most by theft and pillage , and after possest the Mountain Haemus , and a part which lies betwixt it and Lituania , and from the Inhabitants bears the name of ●essaralia . Their principal Towns are ●ilim and Chermem . This last is the seat of the Turkish Sanziack ; for the whole Province became subject to his tyranny in the year 1485. ( 16 ) Walachia is supposed rather to have been first named Flaccia , by the Roman Flaccus , who placed here a Colony , which have continued the Latine tongue to this day among the Inhabitants ▪ though in a corrupt idiome , such as can hardly be understood . Near to this , over the River Danubius , stands Pons Trajanus , built by the Emperour Trajanus Nerva , a work worth admiration , as appears by those ruinous parcels which are yet standing . It hath puzzled the best Artificers to find out how such a vast foundation could be framed in so deep and fierce a stream , which could not be turned into any other course to give way to the building The Country abounds with good commodities , Gold , Silver , and Iron , Salt-pits , Wine , Cattel , and excellent great Horses . The chief Cities are Sabinivus , Pr●ilaba , and Tergoresta . ( 17 ) Servia lies divided from Hungary and Rascia , with the River Savus on her North , and Bosnia on her West . It was the seat of the ancient Triballi , who met with Philip King of Macedonia , and took from him the spoils which he had brought from Maeteas King of the Sarmatians . It was , it seems , but a barbarous people , and therefore Aristophanes in one of his Comedies among his mock-gods names Marathane-triballos . Her chief Cities are ( 1 ) Taurunum , which Pliny placeth in the utmost bounds of Pannonia . It is commonly known by the name of Belgard , and Alba Graeca : It is not so great as glorious : nor is it fortified so much with walls as Rivers ; it lieth open for a siege only one way : which the Turk often attempted , and returned with great loss : yet at last in the year one thousand five hundred twenty one it gave up to Solyman , and became a Province to his Empire . It stands near where the Rivers Danubius and Savus are dissevered : and is the Town which the Hungarians report to have been once delivered by the admirable industry of Ioannes Capistranus a Franciscan , who is much honoured for the action , by those of his own Society . But Ioannes Huviades , tha●t great Souldier and terrour to the Turk , challengeth the glory as his peculiar . Vadianus . ( 2 ) Samandria , and ( 3 ) Stoniburg . ( 18 ) Rascia is on the North of Danubius , where it parts with the River Savus , and lieth betwixt Servia and Bulgaria . In her chief City Boden there is kept a Fair once every year , and much people resort for enterchange of commodities from most Countries thereabout . ( 19 ) Bulgaria somewhat North-East from Rascia , and is bounded with Danubius upon the South ▪ Theophylact was here Bishop , and was called Bulgarius : Near this is the City Tomos , where Ovid lived in Banishment , as himself mentioneth in his 3. de T●istibus . The principal Cities at this present are , ( 1 ) Sophia , the seat of the Berlegbeg of Greece . And ( 2 ) Nicopolis . The ornament of their King was imperial , a Crown of gold ▪ attire of silk and red shoes . Their title 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , a tearm allowed by the Greek Emperours , to those only which might wear this habit , the rest they called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , as much as Reges . ( 20 ) Bosnia on the West of Servia , and South of the River Savus , had her name from the Bossi or Bessi , the people of Bulgaria : within the memory almost of our Fathers , it was governed by Kings ▪ and as yet retains the title of the Kingdom of Bosnia . The chief Towns are Cuzachium and Ia●iga : the first is the place of residency , and the second of burial for the Bosnian Kings . Heretofore the City Sinderoria had that honour , which some suppose to be the same that was once called Dardanum . DANIA map of Denmark The Description of the Kingdom of DENMARK . THE Kingdom of Denmark strikes into the Sea , upon the North of Germany , as Italy on the South : the manner of both is not much unlike : and the glory of this heretofore was not inferior . For however in these latter ages , the pride of Rome hath pranked up her Territories in gay apparel : yet the day was , when both she and they stooped to the Inhabitants of this Country , though then known by another name of Cimbria Chersonesus . Three Roman Consuls , Manilius , Sillanus , and Cepio fell by their sword : and the Empire it self ( it seems ) was in a shrewd hazzard , when their own Historian reports that , Actum esset de imperio , nisi illi saecul . Marius contigisset . ( 2 ) The people were then and had been from their beginning the Cimbri , a Progeny of Gomer , first son of Iapheth ; who before they removed into this quarter of the world , dwelt in the inner Asia , near the straight which passeth from the Pontus Euxinus , to the Polus Maeotis : there we yet find the Bosphorus Cimmericus in Ptolomy , which took name from the Cimmerii , for so they were called at large , and by contraction Cimbri . ( 3 ) From thence they were in time disturbed by the Scythians , and forced to seek them a new sea for their habitation , which ( after long travel ) here they found fittest for their security , as being a Peninsula fenced almost round with Seas , from the force of all foreign Enemies . Yet here too they met at last with a worse danger , which they could less resist . For the main Ocean brake into a great part of the Countrey , displaced many of their Colonies , and sent them Petitioners to Rome for a dwelling within her Dominions : but their entreaty being with some neglect denied , it kindled the sparks , which to this time had lain ( as it were ) dead in a dejected Nation , and now they break out into flames , which stirred them ▪ to require that by force of Arms ▪ which they could not request by submissive Oratory . ( 4 ) Hence grew their first quarrel with the Romans , which they put on with that courage and success , that they were emboldened at last to assault the very City , with so strong Forces , that the glory of it began to shake , and had shattered to pieces , had not the victory followed rather the fortune of one Marius , than the valour of the whole Roman Legions : and that too ( as some relate it ) was bought of his heathenish gods at a dear rate , by the bloudy sacrifice of his own daughter . The great and most memorable encounter was six hundred and forty years after the City was built , about an hundred and eleven before Christ. And then indeed they received ( in a manner ) a fatal crush , which quelled them for the present : yet not so , but that in after ages , they recovered strength and same : spread their victories over the most part of Europe : and left their name ( for many years since that ) in Italy it self . ( 5 ) For without doubt those Cimmerii mentioned by Starbo , which lived on the North side of the Appennine Mountains near Boianum , were of this stock , and of that note , as they gave occasion for many Proverbs and Fables to both Greek and Latin Poets . It was a people which belike seldom saw Sun , but lurked for the most part under ground , lived upon theft , and issued forth only in the night , a season most fit for deeds of darkness : and so was their whole course , which caused our well known Adage of tenebrae Cimmeriae pro densissimâ caligine . The horrid dens , and dismal Rivers , which ran by the place of their abode , bred at length a terrour in the silly Heathens , and was esteemed by them , the passage down to their Elizium . So Homer gives it in the second of his Odysses , and Virgil in his sixth of the Aeneidos : and here did Naso feign his house of sleep , Metamorph. 11. Est propè Cimmerios longo spelunca recessu Mons Carus , ignavi domus & penetralia Somni . ( 6 ) Thus was their Original and progress for the first Age , whilst it continued i● the possession of the Cimmerians . The next which succeeded were the Saxons , a people no less famous ; but since their story hath been elsewhere remembred in our other Descriptions , it must give place here to the third Invader the Danes , who whilst the Saxons were employed with us here in the Conquest of England , start out of those petty Isles in the Sinus Codanus , and took up their room in this Peninsula . There they have continued to this day ; and added other Territories to their Dominions : so that the then Cimbria Chersonesus is but a parcel of the now Kingdom of Denmark , ( as shall appear when we come to her division ) and that only which in our latter times is called Iuitland , and runs North ward in form almost of a Hounds tongue into the Baltick Ocean . ( 7 ) The Danes ( like enough ) were at first one Nation with the Cimbri , but being together expulsed by the Scythians from their native soyl , they were severally dispersed , though not at any great distance . These setled themselves in the Northern Isles , as the other did in their Chersonesus . The first ( at their removal ) varied not their antique name of Cimbri : As for Chersonesus it is not peculiar to this Country , being as common as Peninsula : for it imports no more than 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , à terrâ & insulâ : and of these there are many more , some perhaps of equal same . Taurica Chersonesus was not far distant from the place of their first abode ; Peloponnesus well known in Greece , Thracia , Chersonesus in Thrace , and Aurea Chersonesus in India . ( 8 ) But the Danes it seems suffered some change as well in their name as fortunes . Saxo Grammticus gives it to one Dan the son of Huniblus , which was their first Governour in their new Commonwealth . But this is controuled by Reccanus ( saith Quade ) who renders another Etymon , how likely , I leave to those , who can best judge by their skill in the Danish Language . The Cimbri ( saith he ) when they were grown to great multitudes , bethought themselves of several names to distinguish their Colonies : Each following their own concei● best to express the quality , in which they most gloried . Among the rest , some there were which affecting at least the opinion of a valiant people , such as scorned riches without honour , honour without victory , and victory without the bloud of their enemies ; assumed their name from that creature , which Nature had marked out with this Character , Gallum igitur gallinaceum , tum bellicae laudis , & generosissimi animi , tum indolis regalis & militis strenui , & adomnia momenta vigilis optimum exemplar , ut pro Symbolo & synthemate quodam sivi acceperunt , it a nomen quoque ab eo placuit mutuari ; vocarunt enim sese Dic Hanem & compositae per concis●onem Danem quod Gallina●●● significat . ( 9 ) However the Etimon may be far fetcht , for ought I know , yet doubtless at this day they make good the Elogy of a valiant and warlike Nation ; strong of body , big boned , and of a terrible countenance , ambitious of a glorious death , rather than a sluggish idle life . It is the saying of Valerius Maximus , Cimbros & Celteberos in acie gaudio exultare consuevisse , tanquam gloriosè & feliciter vita excessuros : lamentari vero in morbo , quasi turpiter perituros . We our selves heretofore have felt their stroaks , and submitted to their Conquests in the time of Osbert King of Northumberland . They were provoked by a rape done upon the Sister of the Danish King : for which the poor English dearly paid , with two hundred fifty five years servitude under their tyranny . Yet since we have had , and at this time do enjoy the benefit of their magnanimity , under the personal conduct of the right valiant and illustrious King Christian , who hazards both his state and life in the behalf of his dear neece Elizabeth , and her Royal Husband the Prince Palatine of the Rheine . ( 10 ) Their first Prince which established them a setled and civil government , was Gotricus , in the year seven hundred ninety seven . Before it was but a confused state , and affords us little certainty of their story . From that time the government hath been under a sole King , of equal power with the greatest , though his Revenues are hardly answerable : His best profit is from a breach of the Sea , which runs into the middle part of the Countrey , commonly called the Sound ; which is a passage so narrow , that no shipping can pass that way , without the licence and favour of the Wathch-men : keeping Garrison there to receive the Imposts and Customs of the arriving Vessels for the King. It is easily gathered to what sum of money that Impost amounteth , by the infinite number of Shipping , of H●lland , Zealand , France , England , S●otland , Norway , and the Baltick Sea , that sail in those Seas , and of necessity must pass the ●aws of that narrow strait . The Inhabitants are as greedy of Rh●nish , French and Spanish Wines , the Spices of Portugal , and the fruits of Andaluzia , as they again are needy of the Wax , Honey , and Skins which are brought thither from Prussia , Livonia , Muscovia , and the bordering Nations . The other chief riches of Denmark are goodly Horses , great store of Cattel , and Corn enough , sent to the supply of divers other parts of Christendome : It hath been observed , that 50000 Oxen have been driven out of these Provinces into Germany , for which , toll hath been paid at Guttaorp . Such incredible plenty of Herring , ( near the Isle of Scania ) that the Ships ( they say ) are searce able by main strength of Oars to row out of the Harbour . Besides these , here are furniture for War both by Sea and Land , Armour , Masts , Cables , Steel , Saddles , &c. ( 11 ) Their chief person of fame in course of Learning , was Ticho Brahe , an excellent Mathematician : memorable for his artificial Tower in the Isle of Fimera . In Religion the greatest part of them are now Lutherans , but were first converted to Christianity by Ansuerus . ( 12 ) We are come to her division , which the Sea almost hath made to our hands . For her several Provinces are well-nigh so many Islands , at least Peninsula . The chief are ( 1 ) Iuttia , or the old Cimbria Chersonesus . ( 2 ) Diethmarsia . ( 3 ) Scania . ( 4 ) Hollandia . ( 5 ) Bles●ide . ( 6 ) The Islands in the Sinus Codanus , which lye betwixt Iuttia and Scanta : That is the West , and this is the East limits of the Danish Dominions , North and South are the Ocean , and the River Esdora or Hever . ( 13 ) Iuttia as it was the first , so it is the principal part of this Kingdom : Her bounds upon the West , and East , and North , are the B●ltick Seas , and upon the South , it ●s joyned to Holjatia , and the Istumes of Dith●arsex . It is in length , 〈◊〉 Muginus , eighty German 〈◊〉 from the River Albis to the Cimbrick Promontory called Seagen , and in breadth twenty . It is a fruitful Region , for Wheat , Rie , Barley , &c. And in the North-west there is good pasture , though more North-ward it becomes sandy and barren , and puts the Inhabitants to fish for their victuals , by which they make a shift to live , though hardly enough God Knows , in poor sheds sleightly clapped together , and of a slender stuff , such as if need be they can remove at their pleasure upon very short warning , and bear them away almost upon their back . They transport into other Countries great store of good Horses for service , besides Barley , Cheese , Butter , Suet , Hides , and rich Skins , Nuts and Fish. In this Province are twenty eight Cities , twenty Castles , and four Bishops Sees : Ripensis , Arthusienses , and AElburga , all near to the Sea-side , wilburga in the up-land Country . From this Province came the Iuits , who joyned in with the Saxons and Angles to conquer England . Her chief Towns are Rincopen , Hoine , and Achausen . ( 14 ) Diethmarsia is situated betwixt the Rivers Albis and Eidera . They were a parcel of the old German Saxons : and the Country it self is by some yet reckoned the lower Saxony : but it is in subjection to the King of Denmark : for it is the seat and title of his first Son and heir apparent , as the Dauphinate is to the Son of France , and Wales to the Son of England . Her Metropolis is Breme : the rest Meldorp , and Heininckst , and Tellinckst , and other rich Towns ; yet the soyl cannot be very fertile , by reason of the moist air and her many Marshes , especially toward the North , which makes it unfit for tillage , and indeed impassable for travellers : Upon which impediments the Inhabitants have made this advantage to keep out all forein Invaders , and appropriate what wealth they have to their own secure possession . ( 15 ) Scania or Scandinaria , in the largest compass , comprehends more than belongs to the Kingdome of Denmark ; and is invironed round about with Seas , except on that side where it is joyned to Muscovy . On her West ●s the Kingdom of Norway , on her East Swethland , and upon the South of that , is this Scania , which gives place to no Region , ( at least within these Dominions ) either for wholsome air , or fertile soyl , for commodious Havens , and plenty of Merchandise ; for dainty Rivers of store of Fish , for Cattel , Mines of Iron , Lead , Silver and Gold , fair Towns , and civil Customs . The Metropolis is Lumpis . This whole Province is some eighteen miles in length , and in breadth about twelve in some places , in others not above six . ( 16 ) Hollaudia on the North of Scania , and South of Suecia , is bounded with the Seas upon the West , and on the East with vast Woods , which divide her from Gothland . It is a fertile Region , and not much unlike unto Scandia , but that it comes somewhat short of her happiness in soyl . Her chief Town is Hallausoc . ( 17 ) Blescida or Blicker is bounded on the East and South with Baltick Ocean , and on the North is parted from Scania by a little patch of the Sea. It is a Region full of Rocks , Woods , and Mountains . Her chief City and Castle is Culmaria , a strong defence against the Swethelander : and the next Town of note is Malmagia , the birth-place of Casparus Bartholinus a late approved Writer in the Arts. ( 18 ) In the Sinus Codanus near to the Cimbria Chersonesus , there are numbred 35 Islands . The chief are ( 1 ) Zealand , in length 64 miles , in breadth 52 , it contains in it 13 Cities , 7 Castles , with divers pretty Towns and Villages . The Metropolis is Ha●●nia , the single University within the King of Denmarks government . And here is his chief place of re●idency , which by the Germans is called Kopp●nhagen , the Merchants Haven . Her other Towns are Roschilt , a Bishops See , and heretofore a strong Fortress , well fur●isht for war , and honoured with the Sepulchres of some of their Kings : but yet it is now at a lower ebb , and of little respect . Elsner or Helsinura is a Sea-town . That in Helsinura is called Croneburgh , well furnished with all provision . The other in Scania Hepsigburgh of equal strength , to cause the best Ship to cast Anchor , and satisfie their King , before they shall have the way open out of the Baltick into the Ocean . ( 19 ) ( 2 ) Fionia or Fimera is second to Zealand both in bigness and plenty of rich commodities . It is in length 12 miles , and 4 in breadth . A pleasant Region , fertile and fruitful . Here are in this Island 8 Cities : the chief is Ottonium , Odensch or O●sell , in the very middle almost . It was a Bishops See , well built , but ill fenced : for it hath been oft times wasted and burnt by the Enemy . The other Towns are upon the Sea● coast , and their names are Neburgh , Sinborgh , Feborch , Ascens , Eorgena , Middlesar , and Kortemunde : beside some Castles , many Villages and Noble-mens houses . ( 20 ) ( 3 ) Laglant 7 miles in length , and hath in it many Villages and fair buildings . The City R●theopinga , and the Castle Trancura . ( 4 ) Loilant near Seelant . It is full of Hazels , that they fraught Ships with Nuts and traffique for them into many other Countries . It hath five Towns , Nistad , Nasco , Togrop , Rothus , and Marilus , with some strong Castles , pretty Villager , and Noble-mens houses . ( 5 ) 〈◊〉 in length four miles . Her Cities are Stubecopen and Nicopen , a pleasant and a fair one , for which she is by some stiled the Neopolis of Denmark . ( 6 ) Moena or Muen . In this the City Steck and Elmelanda . ( 7 ) Femera or Femeren . Her chief Cities are Derborch , and Petersborn , and Stabull : and here is the Castle Vraniburgh , built by the great Mathematician Ticho Brahe , which besides the fame of its own artificial structure , is much celebrated for the admirable Instruments , which are there kept , whereby the particular motion of the Heavens is excellently observed . ( 21 ) ( 8 ) And to this Kingdom belongs the Islands Bor●holme , which lies in the Baltick Seas , called more particularly Mare Suevicum , betwixt Blicker and Pomerania . It is a Region of excellent pasture , and feed abundance of Cattel : and therefore is full of Butter , Cheese , Wool , Hides , &c. and sends into other Countries much of their provision for victuals , powdered and barrelled up for the longer keeping . It hath some well peopled Towns : the chief is Boruholme . It had lain for fifty years together in pawn to the State of Lubeck ; but was redeemed by Frederick the second . ( 22 ) From these , and those many other Northern Islands , there have issued in several ages an innumerable sort of Nations , which like so many birds , as Maginus calls them , have flown over the greatest part of our Christian world . He concludes , that ex his insulis olim , Gothi , Ostrogothi , Vestrogothi ▪ Vandali , Franci , Cimbri , Gepidae , Dani , Hunni Suedi , Herculi , Rugi , Alani , Longobardi , Alemani , & alii plures , Danubio & Rheno superatis , omnem Europam , & praesertim ipsam Italiam , altricem imperii & dominum 400. & plus annis perpetuâ quadam regionum successione subjugarunt , ac Romani nomines gloriam ferè omnem extinxerunt . POLONIA P. Kaerius Caelavit map of Poland The Description of POLAND THE Kingdom of Poland borders upon the East-side of Germany , and indeed as far as the R●ver Vistula , it is accounted a part of the Empire : and useth the same Speech , Religions , and Customes , as the other Territories , admitting only that variety , which all of them have among themselves : and must needs be found in so large compass , s governed by so many several free Princes . Beyond the River , as it shrinks from the seat of Christianity , so it begins to degenerate into a kind of Heathenish rudeness , which favours of their Predecessors . ( 2 ) For this Tract is a part of Sarmatia Europae , and the first Inhabitants were the Sauromatae , a Scythian people , as well for barbarisme as by name . It was next possest by the Vandals , an active Nation , of whom we have had some inkling , at least almost , in every place which we have past For they have spread their Victories through Europe ; and have left either name or story behind them in Spain , France , Italy , Germany , Tnrace , and where not ? Their most received pedegree is from Vandalus ( whom Tacitus remembers ) the Tuscane King of the Progeny of Tuisco , first Founder of the Germans . Yet Munster in his Cosmography mentions a pretty conjecture of some well wishers , it seems , ( perhaps to their own Countrey ) which gave the original of their name of Vandals to one Vanda , a Queen of Poland . ( 3 ) Briefly , Were the Vandals natives , or were they invaders ; here they were found , and ejected by the Sclavonians , and these were the third Inhabitants of Polonia : She was over-run at the same time , and had the same fortune with Bohemia : they were both lost to their old Lords , and divided betwixt the two runnagate brothers of Croatia , Zechius and Lechius , who being forced ( for a murder ) out of their own soyl , brought on their crew into these parts , abou● the year 550. and here have continued , ( in their posterity ) to this day . They are as yet remembred in the very names of the people . For the Bohemians in their proper language call themselves Zechians , and in the greater Poland there is still extant a Territory , known by the title of Regnum Lechitorum . ( 4 ) Her Etimon signifieth no other , than the site of the Country , as the Sclavonians first descryed it . For it was a Champian or plain field , and so is Pole land interpreted out of the Sclavonish tongue . It was before called Sarmatia , and the people Sauromatae , ab oculis Lacertarum , Lizzards eyes , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , a property ( it seems ) which gave name to all her Nations . For this was divided from another Sarmatia by the River Tanais ; that on the one side was Asiatica , for the most part wild , Heathen●sh Idolaters , and in the farthest parts of Scythia some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 : this other is Europaea , which being joyned with some parts of Germany Westward to the River Odera , Silesia , and Mo●avia , make up the Kingdome of Polonia , as it is here described . ( 5 ) The bounds then of this great Region are on the West the River Odera , Silesia , and Moravia : on the East the River Neiper , which Ptolomy calls Boristhenes : on the North Pomerania , or rather the Baltick Ocean , and on the South Russia , and the Mountains of Hungary . And if we will , with Maginus , take in the out Provinces which belong to this Government , we must reach Eastward the Tartars and 〈◊〉 , that live near on the other side of Boristhenes : and North-east ward part of Muscovia , Southward the Hungarian mountains , and the Vallaci : insomuch that the compass would come little short of all Spain , as it lieth beyond the Pyrenaean . ( 6 ) The principal Rivers of Poland , are ( 1 ) Vistula , it hath its rise in the Caparthian Mountains , which divide this Kingdom from Hungary , and it self runs into the Baltick , but by the way takes in divers other streams , on the West out of the Polonia Germanica , and on the East , out of the Sarmonica . It is navigable 400 miles . ( 2 ) Neister , which hath her Fountains in the hills of H●ngary , and gl●des East ward , on the South of Podolia into the Pontus Euxinus . ( 3 ) Neiper or Boristhenes , which bounds the Kingdom on the East , is navigable 600 stadia , and runs from North to South , into the Pontus Euxinus , where there is naturally cast up plenty of Salt , which needs no art to perfect it . ( 4 ) Rubin in Lituania . ( 5 ) Hypanis , now Bugh , not far distant from the City Oleska , and falls at last into the River Vistula ; with many others of lesser note , though all conduce to make the Countrey in some kinds very fertile . ( 7 ) For it abounds with most sorts of Corn and Pulse , sufficient both for their own spending , and continual traffique into other Countries . Many of her neighbouring Regions could not well miss her plenty , as well of Whet , Rie , and Barley , as Beeves and other Cattel , which gives supply to Saxony , and the rest of Germany near hand , which hardly yield enough for their Inhabitants out of their own store . The blessing of this fertility cannot come alone ; but must needs bring with it the like riches of butter , Cheese , Milk , Wax , Honey , and whatever else hath its birth from the ground . It is well nigh past belief which is reported of the multitude of Bees , such as yield more Honey and Wax , than the people can find room for : They need here neither Art , nor care of the good Huswife to order their Hives , but naturally are their own Guardians , and provide so diligently for their own safety within the bulks of trees , that they easily pass over the hardest winter without hurt . There is store of game , both for hunting , fowling , and fishing . In her Forests is seen a kind of wild Horse with an horn like an Harts , and the Alces , &c. Lastly , among other good commodities , the worst is not her Pitch and Rosin , which yield her a large annual revenue . ( 8 ) Her chief wants proceed from her bleak situation ; For it is a plain Countrey , and shadowed for the most part with Woods : very cold , and by that means she hath little Oyl , and scarce Grapes enough to teach them the use of Wine . A great defect among so good drinkers ; for they have a name for that equal with any part of Germany : and that I think gives no ground to the rest of Europe : But they make a shift to find themselves play with a kind of Metheglin , Gold or Silver here is not much , unless about Cracovia : and ( as Maginus saith ) in Sandomica , where there are likewise some Mines found of the Lapis Lazulus , perfect Lead , and Iron , and pieces of Copper . Near the Towns of Nochow and Palukie , there is extant a kind of Miracle , a certain Earth naturally formed up into pots , which if you take forth and dry , they differ very little by sight from such as are made by hand , and serve aptly for the same use . ( 9 ) The Inhabitants , though they had but a wild beginning , yet in the more civil parts are of a gentile behaviour to strangers , and not i●iurious one to the other . Theft is a voice not known to the Polands : For they dare travel alone long journeys in the depth of Winter , with one poor one to draw their sledge in the night times , &c. and this with more security and less danger , than we ●ay walk in our open streets in the dusk of Evening . Questionless , this special practise of honesty in that kind , above other Nations , proceeds from an inbred desire which they generally have to be in employment : for they are very industrious in their several faculties . Those which pretend to Learning , addict themselves much to the study of Languages . The Latine is familiar to the Gentry as their own : ( and as Maginus reports ) is used in some Towns by rich and poor as their proper speech . They are prodigal both in diet and apparel , give much entertainment , and keep a large retinue of servants . In brief , they are as equal to themselves , as they are courteous to others ; For they will not be oppressed by the greatest Potenate either home bred or foreign . They are very vallant , and meet their enemy with an undaunted courage , be they never so much over-born either by number or strength . The truth is , no Peasant is suffered to bear arms : only their Nobility and Gentry of place in their Common wealth : such as war , not for others only , and upon constraint , but have somewhat themselves to lose : and therefore are ready as well for their own safety , as defence of their King and Country , to set on upon all assays , and raise an incredible number of excellent Horse , well manned almost , in an instant : For they are kept in continual motion by the Muscovite . ( 10 ) They have a good mind to Religion , but cannot fasten upon any one to their liking : and therefore they will try all . Christians they have been ever since the year 965. but from that time , they have scarce slipt any error , schisme , or heresie , which hath crept into the Church . Here are Iesuites , and others of the Romish Sects ; Here are Lutherans , and Calvinists , and Arrians , and Anabaptists , and Anti-trinitarians ; none allowed , but all tollerated : and indeed Poland had the seniority of Amsterdam , for that old saying , That if a man had lost his Religion , here he might find it . They have one ancient custome in their Churches , which , methinks may well interpret our standing up at rehearsal of the Creed ; when the Gospel is reading , the Nobility and Gentry unsheath their Swords , and stand as it were prepared to defend it with their lives against any which dare violate it . ( 11 ) Their King is chosen by the general States , and is for the most part some great Warriour of their neighbouring Princes : For they have no peace on their East limit , with Muscovites and Tartars , but what they make with the Sword. The Laws are only temporary Statutes , there are none fundamental : But when the King hath any great design in behalf of the Common wealth , he assembles a Councel of the Nobility to assist him . His Revenues coming in , are thought to be about six hundred thousand Crowns : and each quarter of his Kingdom maintains his expence for one quarter of the year . Their first King was Boeslaus , crowned by Otho 3. in the year 1001. But the Regal dignity was lost again to Boleslaus the Bold , who began his Reign 1078. but was deposed by the Pope , and no other suffered to take up the Scepter and rule by the name of King , till the year 1295. The first of the second course was Primastaus , the second Duke of Poland and Pomerania : Since whose time there hath been no breach to this day . ( 12 ) The chief Provinces of the Kingdome of Poland as they lye from her West to East , are ( 1 ) Pomerania . ( 2 ) The Dukedoms of Ozwits and Zator . ( 3 ) Polonia . ( 4 ) Prussia . ( 5 ) R●a nigra . ( 6 ) Samiogitia . ( 7 ) Massoria . ( 8 ) Livonia . ( 9 ) Podlassia . ( 10 ) Lituania . ( 11 ) Volhinia . ( 12 ) Podolia . ( 13 ) The first is Pomerania , bounded on the North with the Baltick Ocean , on the West with Germany : and it is accounted by some a Province of the Empire , as we have ordered in our description . But in regard the greatest part is subject to the King of Poland , I hope I shall wrong neither to give both their due , and reckon it as well to this government , since it hath an equal , if not a greater title to the rule , though not to the Inhabitants ; for they are most Germans . It is a plain Country , but exceeding fertile and rich in all commodities , which any other part affords : flourisheth with forty Cities , which are fenced round either with the Sea , or ditches answerable for safety . Her chief stands upon the shore : for it is by nature so well guarded from the violence of the Sea , that they need fear no inundation : but yet have a very easie and secure entrance for ships . Along the Coast stand Coberg , Camin , Costin , Gribswald , &c. In the up-Land Stetinum the Me●ropolis , Newgard , Lemburg , &c. The people were harsh persecutors of the Church of Christ till the year 1122. ( 2 ) The two Dukedoms of Oswittes and Zator by . Silesia in the West bounds of this Kingdom . They were heretofore sui juris : but now belongs to this government ; the first since the year 1454. in the time of Casimirus : and the last was brought under by Sigismond the first about an hundred years after . ( 3 ) ( 14 ) Polonia is divided into the greater and less . The greater Poland is more Northern , and joyns upon Pomerania and Prussia . It was therefore called the greater , because here Lechius first planted himself and built the City Guesna , which was the Regal seat till it was translated to Cracovia in the lesser Poland 1320. yet at this day is her Archbishop Primate of the Kingdom : during an interregnum hath the power of a Prince ; and Crowns the new King at his Inauguration . Polonia the less is more Southern , lies hard upon Russia and Hungary . It is now esteemed the more noble part of this Province : For here stands the Metropolis Cracovia on the banks of Vistula and Lublin , and other of the best note in Poland . ( 4 ) ( 15 ) Prussia Spruce , on the East of Pomerania , hath the Baltick Seas on the Nor●● , and Massori● on the South : and on her own East Lituania . It is now a Dukedome , and contains Cities of note , Dan●zike , where Keckerman professed , and Mons Regus Regimont : Maneburg , Heilsperge , C●lne , &c. Her chief commodity is Leather , much used heretofore to make Ierkins , where none more brave than the younker , that could compass a Leather Ierkin . Here is likewise great store of Amber , a juyco growing like a Corral in a Mountain of the North Sea , which is clean covered with water , and cast up by violence of the waves into their Havens . ( 5 ) Russia nigra on the East and South of Poland the less , and the North of Hungary , and West of Podolia , and had her name , as some suppose , first Ruthenia and Russia , which in the Ruthen tongue signifies no other than a dispersed Nation : For so were the Russians through all Sarmatia Europaea , and a part of the Asiatick from the frozen Ocean to the Mediterr●neum , and the Sinus Adriaticus , and the Pontus Euxinus , and the Mare Balticum : all that used the Sclavonian tongue , and professed Christ after the manner of the Greeks , were called Russi and Luthen● . But the Province here meant is only the South Tract , as much as belongs to the King of Poland , and is called Nigra , to distinguish it from Muscovia , or Russia Alba. The people are valiant , and in their fights use weapons of exceeding weight and bigness . Her Prince is e●tituled Duke : the name of King they will not endure . This Province contains the Territories Leopoliensis , with her chief city Leopolis . Lunt-burg , a fair Town , and an Arch bishop See : And the Territories Haliciensis , ●elzensis , Praemifliensis , &c. ( 6 ) ( 16 ) Samogitia toward the North , and her West hath the Sinus Balticus : North East Livora . It is in length fifty miles , very cold , compassed in with Woods and Rivers . Her principal Town is Cam●a . But not that nor any other is very famous for Lordly buildings ; the fairest are but sheds in respect of other Countries : The Peasants are truly so indeed ; for they reckon themselves but little better than their Cattel ; live under the same roof with them , without any partition or nice loathing of their nastiness ; a life fit enough for such a people , for they are yet most of them gross Ido laters : and are oft times met in their Woods with horrid visions ; and are strangely cozened by the Devil with a belief that they can prophecy . The silly blasphemers nourish in their house a poor snake ( like themselves ) gathered out of some ditch , and call it their god , worship it with great fear and reverence , and sacrifice once in a year , I Octob. to their devil , but by the name of their god Ziem enike . The better sort are Christians , of a comely portraiture , and good feature , valiant and ready to take Arms when occasion calls them . Their greatest plenty is of Honey , which they gather ready made to their hands in their hollow trees . ( 17 ) Massoria on the South of Prussia , and North of Polonia and Russia , and the East of either Poland , West of Lituania : She had her name from a former Duke , which was ejected by Casimirus , where it had a peculiar Prince of its own , it belonged to the second son of the Kings of Poland ; but in the year 1526 , after the untimely death of Iohn and Starislaus , heirs to this State , it became a peculiar to the Crown of Poland . Her chief City is Marscoria , which hath many under her : all use the same speech and customes , with the other Polonians . ( 8 ) Livonia , to the North bounded with Finland , on the South with Lituania , on the West with the Baltick Sea , and on the East with Muscovie . It is a large Province , carries in breadth one hundred and sixty miles , and in length five hundred . It is Fenny and Woody ; but yet hath Corn and Fruit plenty , Cattel good store , wild and tame , especially Horses : They have Honey , Wax , &c. enough to exchange with other Countries for Wine and Oyl : For this yields little or none . It became Christian , one thousand two hundred . Her chief Towns are Riga , Rivalia , Derpe , and Venda . About some twelve miles from the Continent is the Isle of Osel ( 9. ) ( 18 ) Podlussia on the East of Massoria , and West of Lituania , was joyned to Poland , one thousand five hundred sixty nine . The Inhabitants are Massorites , Russians , and Polands . Her chief Towns are Titock sin , a Fort where the Kings Treasure is kept , Beisco , and Russin . In this the King hath a fair Court , furnisht magnificently , both for state and pleasure . ( 10 ) Lituania , on the East of Poland , and South of Livonia , on the West of Muscovia , and North of Podolia . The air is very unnatural , and by that means the creatures thereof every kind are very small , and their wants great of Corn , Wine , Salt , &c. The people are of a slavish disposition , and live thereafter poor and basely . The women have a freedom by custome to keep many Stallions , which their Husbands love us themselves , and call them their adjutories . But the men may by no means play false . Their condemned persons ( be it to death ) must execute themselves , or be tormented till they expire . They became Christians , 〈◊〉 as they are , one thousand three hundred eighty six . The principal Cities are Vilna , 〈◊〉 , and Brestia , and Norigredum , a City by report larger than Rome . ( 19 ) ( 11 ) Volhinia lieth betwixt Lituania , Padolia and Russia , a plentiful Region , and breeds hardy Souldiers . They live as Russians , use the same speech and customes . Her chief Towns are Kioria , and Lircassia , upon the edge of Boristhenes . ( 12 ) Podo●ia is on the South of Lituania , East of Poland , and North of the River Niester or Boristhenes , as it runs from his head to the Pontus Euxinus , and on the West of Russia . It affords great plenty it seems ; three Harvests ( they say ) of one sowing . It is pity ( saith Vadianus ) it should be left desert , as in manner it is , unless here and there a Village ▪ Her chief is Camiensen , the only one , able to return the Turks and Tartars with the loss , as it hath oftentimes done . The rest are not many , and those but weakly peopled ▪ For the often incursions of the Tartars ; their speedy Horse , to ride a great compass in a little time ; their 〈◊〉 of Faith , upon terms of composition ; and their cruelty when they have got a victory , causeth the Inhabitants of those parts to fly them at a great distance , and leave their Land waste : since they dare not trust their peace , nor are able to withstand their war. PERSIA P. Karius Caelavit map of Persia The Description of the Kingdom of PERSIA . THis Empire was one of the first , and most potent in the Eastern world ; and though since in several ages , she hath felt the variety of fortunes , to which all Kingdomes are subject , and been forced to deliver up her glory to the succeeding Monarchies of the Macedonians , Parthians , Turks , and Sarazens ; yet now at last is she recovered to her own heighth and greatness , and the name of Persia reacheth farther than ever , if we take in , ( as most Geographers do ) the Regions of Media , Assyria , and the rest ; which were heretofore the seat of several illustrious Kingdomes . ( 2 ) Surely the first which inhabited any part of this compass , were the Medes , a people of great antiquity , who reach both their original and name from Madai , the son of Iapheth : for it was not long after the floud ; that they were subdued by Ninus King of the Assyrians : one and t'other , Media I mean and Assyria , though then they had apart their peculiar governments , yet both were but a parcel of this Countrey , which is now known by the name of Persia. ( 3 ) To Ninus and his successors they continued faithful for many years , till the effeminate weakness of Sardanapalus gave opportunity to the ambition of Belochus governour of Babylon , and Arbaces of Media , to divide his Empire betwixt them , which they did in the year of the world three thousand one hundred forty six ; and then began the Monarchy of the Medes , which spread it self through the the greatest part of Asia ; and ( for above two hundred years ) gathered strength , till the time of Astiages , who dreamed himself out of his Empire , as Iustine relates the story . ( 4 ) Persia propriè dicta , from whence this whole Country at last took name , was at this time but an obscure Kingdom in respect of what now it is , and tributary to the Medes . Her Prince was Cambyses , the Father of the great Cyrus , by Mandanes daughter to Astiages ; when she was great , and expected the time of her deliverance , her Father touched with a perplexed dream , that she made so much water as would drown all Asia , interpreted it , that her issue should be the overthrow of his state ; and therefore delivered the child which was born to her , into Harpagus his charge to be destroyed , and he to the Kings Herdsman , who ( unawares to Both ) preserved the guiltless infant , so that at last he took revenge upon his cruel Grand-father , and laid a foundation for the Persian Monarchy . ( 5 ) In this attempt his anger wrought him no farther than his enemy : for he left the government of Media still to Cyaxares the son of Astyages , and afterward married his daughter , joyned with him in his conquests , and till his death gave him preheminence of title . They were both engaged in the taking of Babylon , slaughter of Baltazar , and destruction of the Chald●ans : The Scripture gives this victory to Darius Medus , who , as most hold , was no other than Cyaxares : and he only named as the principal of the two while he yet lived , though Cyrus had his part in the action , after his Uncles death enjoyed it as his own , and made perfect the Monarchy of the Persians in the year of the world 3046. ( 6 ) About thrity seven years after , the succession was broke for want of lawful heirs , to Cambyses their second King ; and therefore their Princes consulted to salute him , whose Horse first neighed at a set meeting upon the Court green , before the Sun-rising . Darius Histaspes was one , and by the subtiliy of his Horse-keeper carried the Crown ; for the night before , in the same ground , he had coupled a Mare with the Horse that his Master should ride , which when the lustful Steed missed the next morning , being full of spirit , no sooner had he set footing upon the place , but with much eagerness he snuffed and neighed after his Mare , and gave the quue to the other Princes to proclaim Darius King of the Persians . This was he whom the Scripture calls Ahasuerus : he was H●sters husband . ( 7 ) Thus is the Empire now setled , and entailed by descent after him to that famous Xerxes , who made war upon Greece , with an incredible Army , joyned Asia to Europe with a bridge , and dammed up Hellespont with his Navy ; yet was at last vanquished by four thousand at Thermopyle , and after by Themistocles forced to make his flight in a small boat towards his own Countrey , contemned of his subjects , and within a few years slain in his Palace by Artabanus . His immediate successour was Artaxerxes Lengimanus , who . sent the Prophet Esdras to re-edifie the Temple , and so on to Darius the last Persian of . that course , who was ost vanquished by Alexander the Great , and left the Monarchy of the world to the Macedonians : After the death of their victorious Captain , it was divided among many of the most potent Princes of Greece . ( 8 ) But when the Persians saw the force of their enemy thus severed , they began to conceive a hope of recovering their liberty ; and so they did indeed under the conduct and command of the Parthian Arsaces , but. found themselves little bettered in their condition , as being now become new slaves to a more harsh tyrant ; and therefore in the year two hundred twenty eight after the Incarnation , they made a second attempt to quit themselves from the Parthians ; they took their time , when their Masters were sore afficted with a strong enemy from Rome , which had broke their Forces to their hands ; so that by the admirable prowess of another Artaxerxes , they made good their Conquest upon the Parthians , and adventured so far with the Romans themselves , that their name began to grow terrible , and the Emperour Constantine forced to fortifie his Provinces , which lay towards the East ; and his might be some cause too , why he removed his seat to Constantinopolis . ( 9 ) After this fell into the hands of the Saracenical Caliphs , in the year six hundred thirty four , and to the Turks in the year one hundred and thirty , next to the Tartars , and so again to the Parthians , by the help of Gempsas , who redeemed both his own and this from the Tartarian ; and briefly after many turns , it became the possession of Isma●l Sophy of Persia whose race continues it to this day . ( 10 ) The bounds of this Empire on the North are the Caspian Sea , and the River Oxus ; on the South the Sinus Persicus , and the Ma●e Indicum , heretofore called Rubrum ; on the West the Turkish confines , as far as the River Tigris , and the lake Giocho : on the East the River Indus , and the Kingdom of Cambaia ; a spacious Land it is , and contains from East to West 38 degrees , and about 20 from the North to South . ( 11 ) This variety of distance in respect of the Heavens , must needs cause as much difference in the qualities of her several Regions : In some places there is that fertility , which makes her equal to any part of Asia ; in others again she is so barren , unfruitful , and unprofitable , that the Land is left waste , as being not able to nourish an Inhabitant . Ora maritima ( saith Quadus ) aestuosa est ac ventosa , & fructuum inops , praeterquam palmarum , mediterranea regio Campestris est & omnium ferax , pecorumque optima nutrix , stuminibus & lacubus plena . Maxime autem suppeditat Araxes plurimas commoditates . It abounds much with metals , and stones of great price . ( 12 ) The ancient Persians were warlike , and ambitious of rule ; for not content with their own , which they freely posses in Asia , they attempted the nearest parts of Africa and Europe , which cost them the first fall from their Monarchy . Nec enim petituri Macedones Persidem vide bantur , in priores Persae Graeciam provocassent , faith Vadianus . Their customes are most of them superstitious , but they held nothing almost in so great reverence as water : it might not lawfully be soyled , so much as with a soul hand ; but to piss , or cast rubbish , or a dead carcass into the Rivers , was a kind of Sacriledge . They had many Wives , and more Concubines : for they were exceeding desirous of increase , and great rewards were appointed by their King himself , for him that could most augment the number of his subjects in one year . They seldome entred into any consultation of State , till they had well armed themselves with drink ; for then they thought they should be more free to speak what they most thought . To spit , or laugh before their Prince , was a crime well nigh unpardonable : some say that they bury not their dead , but cast them forth to be devoured by wild beasts , and thought him most happy which was soonest torn to mammock ; the rest their friends bewailed , as such who had lived impurely ; and were therefore by this sign declared worthy of hell only , without any redemption . ( 13 ) Their Philosophers were called Magi , and studied principally the art of fore-telling things to come ; from whence we have our tearm of Magick ; and usurp the word only in the worse sense whereas ( questionless it was no other with them , than the Greeks Philosophy , Philosophi , or Sapientes with the Latines : for it is by most thought that such were those good Magi , which came from the East to worship Christ ; and Saint Chrysostome directly names Persia to be that East from whence they were led by the Star. ( 14 ) They have now put off most of their antique barbarism , and are become good Politicians , excellent Warriour , sgreat Scholars , especially in Astrology , Physick and Poetry . Those which apply themselves to Mechanick trades , are not inferiour to any almost in our quarter ; they deal most in making of Silks , which they send into all the Eastern Countries in great abundance . They are mild and courteous to Strangers , yet jealous of their Wives , which for the most part are very fair and richly attired ; not withstanding their affection to them usque ad insanam Zelotypiam ; yet are they much addicted to that beastly sin of the Turks , and have their Stews on purpose , whither they resort without controul or shame . Their language is elegant , and in use in most of those Eastern Countries . The Christian Religion was once planted here both by Saint Thomas and Saint Andrew ; yet are they now fallen to Mahametism , and differ but as Schismaticks from the Turks , which occasioneth much hatred and perpetual war betwixt them . ( 15 ) The Regions which belong to the Empire of Perfia are ( 1 ) Persii . ( 2 ) Media . ( 3 ) Assyria . ( 4 ) Sus●ina . ( 5 ) Mesopotamia . ( 6 ) Parthia . ( 7 ) Hyrcania . ( 8 ) Bactriana ( 9 ) Parapomissus . ( 10 ) Aria . ( 11 ) Drangiana . ( 12 ) Gedrosia . ( 13 ) Carmania , and ( 14 ) Ormus . ( 16 ) Persis had her name from Perseus , which came hither out of Greece ; and this gives it to the whole Empire : It is now called Fa●st or Fars●st●n , and was heretofore Panchaia . It lieth betwixt Media on the North , and the Sinus Persicus on her South : on her West Susiana , and East Carmania . Her Metropolis is Siras , once Persepol●s , and is built toward the mid land near the River Araxis : it was surprized by Alexander , and many thousand talents of gold sent into Greece , with other rich spo●l and trophies of Victories , which the Persians had . before gotten from most parts of the then known world . Upon the Sea-coast stands Cyrus , a City which was built by their first absolute Monarch , and called by the Inhabitants Grechaia : It was the Bishop seat of the learned Theodoret , who lived here about the year 450 , and in this Region is Laodicea built by Antiochus , and Passagarda , where Cyrus had his Sepulchre . ( 17 ) ( 2 ) Media now Servania , on the North of Persis , and South of the Caspian Sea , hath Armenia major and Assyria on her West , and on her East Parthia and Hyrcania . It was before Cyrus , the seat of the Empire , and mother to a warlike potent Nation . Their Kings had many wives , seldome fewer than seven : and their women thought it a great calamity to have less than five husbands . In this stands the Territory of Tauris , which was called by our ancients Erbathana , and doth stand some eight dayes journey from the Hyrcinian Sea : it is rich and populous , and was the seat of the Sophies , till it was removed to Casbin , which lieth somewhat more South . Betwixt both stands the City Turcoman : and elsewhere in this Province are many others dispersed of good note , especially Suliana , Symmachia , Nassinum , Ardovil , Marant , and Saucazan , &c. ( 18 ) ( 3 ) Assyria now Arzeram on the West of Media , South of Armenia , North of Susiania , and East of Mesopotamia : it was the seat of Ninus his Kingdome , lost by Sardanapalus ; and here stands the most famous City Nineveh near . the River Tigris , larger than Babylon containing full threescore miles in compass : for the community which the Babylonians had with them in course of government , they were oft times promiscuously used by Historians : both had this custome , to sell their Virgins , which were fair and most desired , and tender the price into the common treasury . The homelier sort were placed in marriage with that money , to those which would accept of them for gain at least , if not for beauty . They were much addicted to Astrology , and were questionless led to it by the opportunity of their situation , which gives them a more perfect view of the Heavens , and several course of the Planets , than any other part of the world besides . ( 19 ) ( 4 ) Susiana , now Cuceston , seems to have her name from Cus , upon the South of Assyria , West of Persia , East of Babylonia , and North of the Persick bay . It is severed by Pliny from Elemauss the great by the River Euleus , of whose waters only the Persian Kings were wont to drink , as being more sweet and pure , than any other in this Countrey . ( 20 ) ( 5 ) Mesopotamia , now Diarbecha , heretofore Aram or Charam , lies betwixt the two Rivers Euphrates and Tigris , and hath Armenia major on her North , and on her South Arabia deserta : it is of large extent , and hath much variety of commodities in her several quarters , but hath suffered great calamities by reason of her continual wars with the Turk . Her chief Cities are Charon or Haran , where Abraham setled himself when he was called forth of Chaldaea and where that gurges Avaritiae , the Roman Marcus Crassus , lost his life . Not far distant is the City Nisibis , which was once called Antiochia , and Migdonia ; to these Maginus adds Merdin and Mosus . ( 21 ) ( 6 ) Parthia , now Arach , on the East of Media , on . the South of Hyrcania , North of Carmania , and West of Aria . The Inhabitants were valiant , and had their course of Sovereignty in the Eastern Monarchy . Her chief Cities are Cassan and Hispaham , which the Persian hath in so great account , that he calls it half the world . ( 22 ) ( 7 ) Hyrcania , now Strava , on the North of Parthia , and East of Media , and South of the Mare Caspium : it is plain , fertile , and rich . Her Metropolis Hyrcania : the rest of note are Bestan , Mesnadran , ( 8 ) Bactriana now Charassan , on the South is divided from Aria by the mountain Parapomissus : Her chief City Bactra , the birth place of that great Physician Avicenna , and Zoroaster Magus : This Region belongs not entire to the Sophie of Persia. ( 9 ) Parapomissus now Sublestan and Candbear on the East of Aria a mountainous Countrey , and the Inhabitants rude and ragged , yet her chief City Candatura is a great market , and well frequented both from India and Cathaia . ( 10 ) Aria now Eri , on the East of Parthia : the Inhabitants of this Region rebelled against Alexander , but were forced by his Armies to flye for shelter into a Cave upon the ●op of a Rock ; yet thither he pursued them , and dammed up the Caves mouth with Timber , which he set on fire , and stifled most ; the rest were taken to the Victors mercy : the treason of Philotus against Alexander was here discovered . ( 11 ) Drangiana now Sigestan : In this Country the Hill Taurus is called Caucasus , where . the Poets seign , that Prometheus was perpetually gnawn by a Vulture for stealing fire from Heaven : Her chief Cities are Sim and Cabul , built by Alexander at the foot of Caucasus ; and therefore Alexandria Arachosiae . ( 12 ) Gedrosia now Circan , near the Mare Indicum , a barren Countrey , scarce worth a farther description ; and so ( 13 ) Carmania . ( 23 ) ( 14 ) Upon the confines of the Persian Empire stands a potent Kingdome , which comprehends part of the coast of Persia , some Islands of the Persick bay : and a good portion of Arabia Foelix near to those Seas . The chief seat is the City and Island Ormutz a place of a great merchandise , but of it self affordeth little provision for victuals ; so that they are forced to have it brought in from other Parts of the Empire , though at an extream dear rate . It bounds with a precious Pearl called the Vnion : Their King is now tributary to Portugal , as once it was to the Persian Emperour . THE TURKISH EMPIRE map of the Turkish Empire The Description of the TURKISH EMPIRE . THe Turk is admired for nothing more , than his sudden advancement of so great an Empire . For before these three hundred and odd years , we must seek this people ( which is become now a terrour to the whole world ) lurking in the by-corners of Asia , like runnagates and thieves , as indeed they were ; such as so infested their neighbours with rapines and murders , as that they neither enjoyed their own lives freely , nor possest more wealth than they could maintain with the sword . ( 2 ) The great Osmand was . the first which redeemed them from obscurity : his Predecessors were scarce mentioned as a Nation worth story ; and therefore it is not easie to give their true original , or set justly the place of earth from whence they sprang . There are which say from the Caspain mountains ; and that in the time of the Macedo●ian ●●asilius , they served the Sarazens in their Indian Wars , but turned the Victory to their own advantage : for when they had once tryed their strength , and found their Forces sufficient in behalf of others , they bethought themselves at last , to use them for their own advancement ; and to that purpose , turned head first upon their pay masters , out of whose spoils they raised incredible Armies , which over-spread all Asia , to the very Euxine Sea. Others again conjecture , that they were a Scythian people ; and the rather , for that they made their way into these parts through Pontus and Cappadocia and so on , as it were in a direct course from Scythia . The truth is , the customs of both are not much unlike , their habit very near , and their wars waged with the same weapons and discipline . ( 3 ) But admit their first attempt upon the Sarazens : yet were they again scattered by their civil dissention , lived as before , and could not be recollected into a Nation , till Othoman took upon him to be their Leader in the year 1300 , a man of as low birth and fortunes as the meanest , but had 〈◊〉 spirit , and an able wit may weild it : which put upon this great action , to conquer the world , and suffered him not to rest in it , till he had seated himself in an Empire , which his progeny enjoy to this day . He began with a rascal crew of such as were led on by want , and seemed rather to bear Arms in defence of their privy thests , than with intent to invade an enemy : for he appeared not at first as an open Warriour , but wrought his spoils by stratagems and sleights , and clandestine excursions , upon such as were unprovided for resistance ; possest himself of mountains and woods , as lay most convenient for his lurking practises , and whither he might retire safe , if at any time he were pursued . ( 4 ) By these means he was content for a while , to encrease his wealth and power , which soon grew to that eminency , as in few years he durst meet a strong enemy to the face ; buckle with him upon his own ground , for his possessions , and at last so prevailed where ever he set footing , that he scarce stept back till he claspt into his own government , Pontus and Cappadocia , Galathia and Bythinia , Pamphilia and Licia , and Phrygia , and all Asia minor , to the Greek Seas : to which his successors have in latter times added many other Countries of Asia , Africa , and Europe : so that it is now become the most potent and tyrannical Empire of the world . ( 5 ) The first of State was at Prussia in Bythinia , from thence it was removed Hadrianopolis , and at last to Constantinople , a City of Greece in the Province of Romania . His Palace is called Seraglio is built in the most eminent part of the Town , contains three miles in circuit within the walls , and surpasseth all other Courts under Heaven for Majesty , and number of buildings , for pleasurable gardens , sweet fountains , and rich furniture . The Emperour himself hath for his common Guard four thousand footmen , the sons of tributary Christians , which are called Ianizaries , and their Captain Agu , besides ten thousand others , dispersed under several Commanders through divers parts of the Empire : and fifteen thousand Hersemen in ordinary pay . In these numbers , I ●eckon not those multitudes of Timariotae , which are assigned to several of the Turkish States ; and deliver incredible sums of money into his Treasury . As his wealth is great , so is his life luxurious ; fifteen hundred women are cloystered up ●or his pleasure , and out of them one hundred and fifty c●lled as choice for his daily lust ; so Maginus . The offices within the Court are performed by Eunuchs , such as ( he will be sure ) shall not partake with him in his unsatiate and bruitish pleasures . ( 6 ) The Ministers of State are ( 1 ) Mu●ti , who interprets their Law , and laies open their Alcoran , with the like Authority as the Pope among the Roman Catholicks . ( 2 ) Cadilesche●i , who are the supream Iudges , to determine of their causes controverted , and these are three ; the one for Enrope , whose residency is in Romania ; another for Asia in Natolia ; and the third set up by Selimus the first , to judge such offences as are brought to him fr●m Aegypt , Syria , Arabia , and part of Armenia . These Cadilescheri have under them peculiar Iudges of every Province , which are called Cadi , and are chosen at their pleasure , but confirmed by the Emperour himself . ( 3 ) The third rank are Vizer Passa , their Emperours Council ; their chief is Vizer Azem , a man of great power through all the dominions of the Turk : and for the most part , present at his treaties of State. ( 4 ) The fourth order are the Beglerb●gs , whose office answers almost to our Generals , and as the Iudges were , so are these placed in the three several quarters of the Empire : one in Greece for Europe : a se●ond in Anatolia for Asia ; and the third is an Admiral of the Seas , and commands those parts which are left by the other two : all of equal respect and place with Vizer bassa . Those of inferiour rank , and pet●y employments in the Common-wealth are almost innun erable , many of them not natives , but apostate Christians , and in conditions , differ as the Countries from whence they first sprang . ( 7 ) The multitude , I mean the born Turks , savour still of their barbarous Ancestors , and carry the marks in their fore-heads , and l●mbs of Scythians and Tartars : They are for the most part broadaced , strong-boned , well-proportioned , dull and heavy-headed , of gross understanding , idely disposed ; and yet greedy of wealth , luxurious in their diet , and beastly in their lustful affections , without distinction of kindred or sex , base minded , slaves to themselves and their superiours in their own Country ; yet ignorantly proud , and contemptuous of other Nations , which they take in soul scorn , should be compared with their lubberly Inhabitant . They pass not to couzen a Christian in their course of traffique ; nor do they think they are bound to keep promise unless it make for their advantage . The greatest part they have by due desert , is their strict obedience to the discipline of war : no sedition , no tumult , no chat in their Camp or March , insomuch that oft-times many thousands on a sudden surprize their enemies unawares , with so very little noise , as not to be heard in their approach . No difficulty can be demanded , which they are not ready to perform , without any respect at all had to the danger ; be it to pass Rivers , top Mountains , scale Walls , stand Centinel : In brief , they are not to eat or sleep in War , but at full leisure ; and are the truest military men upon earth . ( 8 ) No great marvel then , if with so great multitudes , so well ordered , they daily improve their Empire upon the Christians , who are not so zealous in defence of their true faith as these mis believers , bold and fool-hardy to uphold their false god . But the truth is , their superstitious credulity of fate , which they think hath immutably prefixed every mans hour for life or death , which he can neither defer nor hasten , makes them fearless to incur dangers , and careless for their own security . ( 9 ) Divers Schools they have , where their chief study is the imperial Laws ; from thence some are preferred to secular , some to Eccl●s●astick O●●●ces . Their Religion is a meer couzenage , thrust upon the silly people by the impious subtilty of one Mahomet , whose story is well worth our knowledge , and may cause us to commiserate the desperate state of those ignorant , yet perverse and bloo●y Antichristians . ( 10 ) His place of birth is questioned , whether he were a Cyrenaick , an Arabian , or Persian , it is not yet fully decided ; certain ●no●gh he was of base parents ; his father ( some say ) a worshipper of Devils , and his Mother a faithless Iew. Betwixt them they sent into the world a pernicious deceiver ( which none but two such Religions could have made up ) in the year five hundred ninety seven . When he had been for a while thus instructed by his distracted Parents , poverty , and hope to improve his Fortunes , perswaded him from his Native soyl , to live for another while among true professed Christians , where he received so much knowledge of the world , and light of the Gospel , as to pervert it to his destruction , and ruin of many millions of souls . ( 11 ) In his first adventurous travels abroad , he fell into the hands of theevish Sarazens , which sold him to a Iewish Merchant ; and he employed him to drive his Camels through Egypt , Syria , Palestine , and other Forein Countries , where he still gathered ●arther instructions of that truth which he intended to abuse . His wickedness first brake forth into fraud , open theft , and rapine , and other sins of highest rank ; in which he continued and seduced others , till the death of his Master , and after married his aged , but rich mistress . ( 12 ) He had means now to act his malicious purposes , and wealth to countenance his exceeding pride , which would not be satisfied with any lower ambition than to be called a Prophet of God. This he began to practise , by the counsel of one Sergius a Monk , who being cast out for Heresie from Constantinople , betook himself into Arabia , and joyned in with Mahomet , to make up this mischief perfect : see now their juggling . There wanted not craft betwixt them , to make use of his worst actions to gull the simple : For when by his debaucht drinking and gluttony , he was fallen into an Epilepsie , and in his fits lay Bear-like groveling , and foaming upon the earth , as one without sense , he pretended an extatick swound ▪ wherein his soul was rapped from his body , whilst he converst with Gabriel , an Angel from Heaven . To make this familiarity with God the more to be believed , he had bred up a Dove to take her meat from his ear , which he most blasphemously professed to be the holy Ghost , which at such times , and in that shape , infused the Prophecies ▪ which he was to preach . Lastly , what they in their wicked fancies had conceived , and meant to propagate , they digested into a Volume , and called it the Alcoran . ( 13 ) For this too they had a trick , that it might seem to have been sent from heaven into the hands of Mahomet ; and to this purpose he had himself fed up a tame Bull , which by custome became so familiar , that no sooner he heard the voice of his Master , but he would straight run , cast the head in his lap , and use his wanton dalliance as with a fellow . Betwixt the horns of this Bull had he fastned the Alcoran , and conveyed him into a by-place , near where he had assembled the multitude at a set time , to expect a wonderful miracle from Heaven , that might confirm his Prophecy . The sce●e thus ordered , on the sudden he lift up his voice , and made a loud cry , which no sooner the Beast heard , but he brake his way through the prease , overturned many of the spectators , which now stood at a gaze , and gently laid his Horns and Book in the bosome of this false Couzener ; which he with much ceremony and feigned reverence received , and in their presence opening the Volume , began to interpret the chief of their Laws , which for hereafter they were to observe . ( 14 ) Circumcision he allowed , and with the old Law , forbad Swines flesh , that he might with more ease lead on such as were Iewish ; he suffered himself to be baptized by Sergius , that the Christian too might have in some measure his content . Moses and our Saviour he denied not to be great Prophets ; but that neither party might emulate the greater observance of other ; and indeed , especially that his own might seem new , and yet take place from both , he changed the Circumcision of the Iews from the eight day , and multiplies Baptisme , which can be conferred but once for all , upon the true believer . For the like reason of difference with other Nations and Sects , he left both the Iews Sabbath , and Diem Christianorum Dominicum , and commands his holy ceremonies to be celebrated on the Friday , for so it was , when the Bull bestowed on him his Alcoran . Before they enter the Temple , they wash all the unclean parts of their bodies , and then to Prayer , which must be performed five times in a day , with their face toward the South . They have a moneths fast too once every year , but it i● observed only for the day ; for they may , when the Sun is down , redeem it with what gluttony they please : Wine is forbidden , only for a shew , that he might not seem to have loved that , which ( as he was guilty to himself ) had brought him into his epileptical fits . Briefly , what he knew would best agree with the bruitish desires of the people , that he took order should be confirmed by his laws ; four or five wives to every husband , and as many Concubines as they would maintain . For their bliss after life , he proposed no invisible delights which over-reacht their understanding , but proportioned to each of their sensual thoughts , and promised to those which could keep his Law a Paradise of all kinds of pleasure , which they themselves most affected . To the covetous , wealth ; to the ambitious , honours ; to the gluttonous , meats ; to the Virgins , rich attire , and embraces of Angels ; the poor souls were never so fitted : and when he had thus for a long time , discoursed over his Alcoran , he took a yoke from Sergius , and put it upon the Bulls neck ; for it was foretold by an inscription brought by his door , that whosoever could yoak the Bull , it should be a sign to declare the man , as one sent from God to govern his people . ( 15 ) This huddle of miracles put the gazers beyond all pause , so that in an instant they cryed him up King , and held his companion in reputation of a minor Prophet ; called themselves Musulmanni , true believers , which the Turk still affects , rather than his right name of Turk , which imports banishment , and upbraids him with the disgrace of his original . ( 16 ) And now he hath past the difficulty of his attempt , an easie matter to draw on millions of followers , such as would like that Religion best which baulkt not their pleasures ; yet at last he met with an end answerable to his beginning ; for he was poysoned by some of his own Family . ( 17 ) He had long before prophesied , that he should be wonderfully conveyed to Heaven : and to make good this fraud , had framed an iron chest for his Sepulchre , which he purposed should have been held up by force of a Load-stone , placed in the top of the Temple , and by this means have appeared to the beholder to hang in the air without any support : But this trick ( it seems ) was prevented by death ; yet they expected still his ascent to Heaven , till he stank upon earth : so that at last they were forced to convey him into his iron coffin , which remains to this day in Mecha a City of ●ersia , and is visited by the Turks , as the Sepulchre of our Saviour at Ierusalem by Pilgrim Christians . ( 18 ) I took leave here to supply the room with the Customes and Religion of the Turks , which in course of our former method , was due to the division of the Empire and her several Provinces : But I suppose , I have the less trespassed , in regard that most of them have already had their place and description in each of their particular Kingdomes , to which they did formerly belong . It will be sufficient here to name them , with reference to the Map , where you have them delivered more at large . ( 19 ) In Europe it runs along the Sea coast of the Adriatick bay , from the Land of Epidaurus . now Ragusi , and so about the Aeg●an Sea , and Propontus , and a great part of the Euxine to the City Theodosia in the Taurica C●ersonesus , which is now called Ca●●a . In the Mediterranean from Iovarinum in Hungary , to Constantin●ple in Greece . The several Provinces of this compass are ( 1 ) a great part of Hungary , Bosnia , Servia , Rassi● , Bulgaria , Walachia , and Transylvania , &c. in the description of Hungary . ( 2 ) Graecia and her Provinces , Thracia , Macedonia , Epirus , Achaia , Peloponnesus , with the Islands of the Egean , &c. in the description of Greece . ( 3 ) A part of Sclavonia . ( 20 ) In Africa almost all the Sea-coasts from the City Bellis de ●omera to the Arabick bay ; In this stands Algiers , Tunis , Tripolis , all Aegypt , F●sse , Marolum , &c. in the African description . ( 21 ) In Asia , Natolia , the Islands of Cyprus , all Syria , Palestine , Iudaea , Coelofyria , Phoenicia , Babylonia , Arabia Triplex , Turcomannia , and Georgea , Mesopotamia , and part of Media . And these belong to the description of Asia . CHINA Petrus Kaerius Caela . map of China The Description of the Kingdom of CHINA . THE whole Tract of Asia , which lies severed from Persia by the River Indus on the West , is well known by one General name of the East-Indy ; and that again is divided by the other famous River Ganges , into India intra Gangem , the part which looks toward Europe , and is conjectured by most to be the land of Evilah : and India exter Gangem to the very East , some think it was that , which of old was called Seria : both have now other names imposed by the Inhabitants ; the first Indostand ; this other Tame , Tangis , Mangi , or Macys , and las●ly , Sinarum regio , China . ( 2 ) This Kingdom then is the utmost bounds East ward of the whole Continent , and therefore lies farthest remote from Christendome ; the Mistress of Arts , and example of civility to all the other parts of the world ; yet do the Chinois● much exceed us , for ample Cities , ingenious artificers , and multitude of Inhabitants ; ( which methinks ) pleads fairly for her antiquity , though I give not ●ull credit to those , which settle here the sons of Iocktan , much less to their own records , which reckon two hundred threescore and two Kings , in almost a continued succ●s●●on to this day ; and number from their first , above four thousand years . For to make this good , they must either vary from us in their measure of times , as we from the Germans in length of miles ; else we must commit a foul errour , to look beyond the Floud for their original : since that time , it is not yet above three thousand n●ne hundred and twenty ; and surely I think they were not exempted from the general deluge , no more than from the sins of the whole earth . ( 3 ) But if this conjecture of different account be not approved , the solecisme must rest ( for me ) upon their own ignorant vain-glory , which in their stories , transport them beyond probability ; upon hope ( perhaps ) that no other Nation could controul them ; for in those first ages , they had li●●le converse , unless with men more barbarous than themselves ; such as could not deliver their acts to posterity ; and therefore being left wholly to their own relations , good reason they thought they had to do themselves what honour they might , though ignorance of the main truth makes them oft times to trespass upon Chronology , and forge stories so unlikely , that the whole may be justly suspected . ( 4 ) Their first King they name Vitei , and report him to have reigned an hundred years : his successors went on without breach or conquest , to their two hundred forty second Prince , but were then for a while , cut off by the Tartarians . This change was fore-told to Fairfar ▪ the last China King of the first race ; and the Prophecy laid it upon one , which should have an hundred eyes ; and so had Chisanbaan the Invader , if you will allow his name to make up the miracle ; For the very word in their language signifies no other than an hundred eyes : A poor cousenage of the Devil , but served the turn first to dazle them with a strange Prophecy , and then to keep up the credit in the performance , with the simple Idolaters . After nine Tartarian Princes it was again recovered to the state , in which it now stands , by the prowess of one Gombne their 250 King ▪ ( 5 ) This brief account of their beginning and progress , is more than I can warrant for undoubted truth . The most part was past ▪ e're they were a people known to the Europaeans ; for Ptolomy himself scarce reached so far toward the East : or if it be the same with his Sinarum Regio , ( which yet some doubt ) yet ( it seems ) he knew little more of it than the bare name ; we must be content to pass over many ages untoucht , and break abruptly , into our own times and stories , which do afford us more certainty by the relation of later travellers , some of our own Nation . ( 6 ) It is now a vast Empire , which contains in latitude almost forty degrees from the Tropick of Cancer , to the fifty three towards the Pole Artick ; and thirty in longitude from the degree one hundred thirty to one hundred sixty : the bounds on the West is Industan , India intra Gangem , on the East Mare Cin , on the North the Empire of the great Chane , severed from the Chinoy●e by high mountains , continued with a wall of a thousand miles in length , built by Tzanitzan , their 117 King : on the South , the Kingdom of Chauchinchinae part of the other India intra Gangem . ( 17 ) The Air here is temperate , and the ground fruitful : the mountains and wild fields breed incredible numbers of Cattel , and the Woods wild Boars , Foxes ▪ Hares , Conies , and other useful beasts , which gives us flesh for our food , and skins for our cloathing . The tilled ground returns again plenty of Corn , Wheat , and Barley ; their higher Poulse , and their lower Rice , in great abund●nce ; their Gardens pleasant , set with all sorts of Flowers , wh●ch may delight either the eye or scent ; no clod ( almost ) of earth there , but hath its wealth ; for what yields not fruit , is inrich● with Mines of Gold and Silver . The chief River is Polysango , both it and the rest give fish in great abundance , and water fowl enough almost to feed a whole Nation : Maginus reports it , that ten or twelve thousand w●ld Ducks have been commonly spent in one day in the City Canton ; besides their own profit , they advantage them much in their course of traffique , to convey their Merchandise into several parts of the Empire , to meet with their Chapmen from all quarters . Their principal commodities are Silks and Sugars : yet besides these , they send forth Wooll , Cotton , Olives , Metals Rhubarb , Honey , Purs●●●n d●shes , Camphire , Ginger , Pepper , &c. Musk , Salt great store , whose Custome , in only one Town of Canton , amounts to the yearly value of 18000 Crowns . To this happiness of soyl may be added the thrift and great industry of the Inhabitants , who hold it a soul disgrace to be accounted idle : and therefore make the most of what they have ; so that without doubt , as they are infinitely populous , so they are proportionably rich , beyond any other Nation of the world . ( 18 ) The Chinoyse is described with a broad face of a dusky colour , crooked nose , small and black eyes , and very thin beard , but long hair on the head : if any be deformed ( for so they take it ) with a better feature , they are as like to break a jest upon his handsome comely visage , as a scoffer would upon their ill-fashioned countenance . The better sort are clothed in long silk garments , the ordinary people in linnen , for they have not yet the Art well to weave woollen : their women deck their heads with gold and precious Iewels , seldome shew themselves abroad without great attendance of servants . ( 9 ) The men in their several employments , are infinitely laborious and ingenious ; it is very rare to see any of them in a strange Country : nor will they easily admit a Stranger far into theirs , unless he be first well tried for his honesty and good meaning toward their State ; they are addicted much to manual arts , for they have excellent practick wits ; and indeed , for that go beyond any other Nations . Much quarrel hath been about the invention of Guns and Printing , which several people have been ambitious to take to themselves , as the master-piece of mans wit : but without doubt , they were both used here , long before any of Europe pretended to the knowledge of either . In their writings , they make not their lines from the right hand to the le●t , as the Hebrews ; nor from the left to the right as we do ; but from the top to the bottom of the Page : and use all one Character through the whole Kingdom , though several parts differ much in their language , or at least in their idiomes . Their special skill , which we much admire , but cannot imitate , is in making the Purslain dishes white as very snow , and transparent as glass , formed up only of Cockles found in the Sea-shore mixt with Egg-shells ; but lie buried in the earth many years before they come to perfection , and are seldome took up by the same artificer which kneads them , but are left as a portion to some of his posterity . ( 10 ) Their fashions in private Houses are not much unlike to those of Europe : at board they sit in chairs , and upon forms , not loll on the floor , as most of the Asiaticks do ▪ they touch not their meat with the Hand , but use the Silver fork , or else some stick of Ivory or Ebony , not much unlike it : they eat thrice in one day , but sparingly enough : when they travel over the plains , they use a kind of Coach , yet not drawn with Horses or other beast , but driven by the wind under sayl , as a Bark on the Sea , which the people are as perfect to guide which way they please , as the Mariner is to direct his course unto any coast , whither he is bound : as they sail upon Land , as if it were Sea , so they dwell as frequently upon the Sea , as if it were land : for they have an incredible number of ships , and boats , which are in many places ranked like streets upon the waters , and filled with Inhabitants , such as are here born , live , traffique , marry , and die . Mr. Purchas reports , that upon one River from Nanquin to Paquin , they are thus ordered for 300 leagues . No marvel then , if their number exceed any part ●roportionably of the whole earth ; since their Land is not sufficient , but is forced to borrow room out of the Sea for their Habitation : yet are they all governed by one Monarch , whom they call the Lo●d of the World , son to the Sun. For they are a proud Nation , and admit not equal comparison with any other earthlings ; but cast it as a Proverb into their teeth , that they have but one eye to see with , in respect of the Chinoys , who alone ( as themselves boast ) see with two : the truth is , in matters of State , they are very politick , in peace wary , and in war valiant , crafty , and excellent Engineers . ( 11 ) Their Laws are for the most part just , and severely executed , especially against idle droans , which set not a hand to advance their State , or maintain themselves . They will not cherish the very blind by alms , since without eyes a man may be fit for some corporal imployment ; but to the maimed and lame they deny not a charitable mainten●nce . The son is bound to exercise his Parents occupation , so that no pretence almost is left for wanderers : and briefly , as far as humane Laws can provide , all other vain occasions , for mis-expence of time , are taken off ; for within the Cities no Stews are allowed , or lewd persons to withdraw them ; adultery is punished with death , but yet they have liberty to take many wives ; one they keep at home , the rest are disposed of abroad , where they best please . Their Marriages they chiefly solemnize at the new Moon , and for the most part in March. which begins their year . ( 12 ) For their Religion they are Gentiles , but have a confused knowledge of God , Heaven , and the Creation , which they ascribe to one Trine , who first ( say they ) made Pauson and Pausona , and their posterity continued for 90000 years ; but were then for their wickedness destroyed , and a new race was created . The first of their second was one Lutitzan , who had two horns ; from the right come men , as they fondly imagine , and from the left women ; when they would descipher their great god , they express him by the first letter of their Alphabet ; and in their devotions they worship him as their chief , ( but not only ) preserver ; for they have their prayers to the Sun , Moon Stars , and to the Devil himself , that he would not hurt them . Their Priests are distinguisht into the black and white Friars , as we call them ; for they much resemble Friars in their course of life ; some are clothed in white , their heads shorn , and their victuals in common ; others in black , long hair , and live apart : neither are married , but both take their liberty to live obscenely , as the debauchedst swaggerers . ( 13 ) The Empire is divided into 15 Provinces . ( 1 ) Canton . ( 2 ) Feguien . ( 3 ) Olam . ( 4 ) Sisnam . ( 5 ) Tolench . ( 6 ) Causaie . ( 7 ) Minchien . ( 8 ) Ochiam . ( 9 ) Horan . ( 10 ) Pagino . ( 11 ) Zaiton . ( 12 ) Quinchien . ( 13 ) Cheguem . ( 14 ) Susnam . ( 15 ) Quinsay . All of large extent , and contain in them many Towns and Cities , in number more , in compass bigger , and in wealth more eminent than the best of ours . ( 14 ) ( 1 ) In the Province of Canton are 190 Towns , and 37 Cities . ( 2 ) In Feguien , 99 Towns , and 33 Cities . ( 3 ) In Olam 130 Towns , and 90 Cities . ( 4 ) In Sisnam , 150 Towns , and 44 Cities . ( 5 ) In Tolench 235 Towns , and 51 Cities ; and this is governed immediate by the Emperour himself , without any substitute , as all other Provinces have , except Pagina . ( 6 ) Causaie hath 122 Towns , 24 Cities . ( 7 ) Minchien 29 Towns , 25 Cities . ( 8 ) Ochiam 74 Towns , 19 Cities . ( 9 ) Honan , 102 Towns , and 20 Cities . ( 10 ) Pagina , 150 Towns , and 47 Cities . ( 13 ) The chief of this is Paquin , where he hath his continual residence , and scarce at any time leaves the City , unless upon occasion of war ; for it is seated near to the Tartars , who oft-times make assaults upon the Chinoyse , and force the King to gather his strength into that quarter ; and he himself present to withstand their entry : lest if they should once get footing into any part of his Countrey , they might encroach farther , and enable themselves by his spoils to follow their blow upon his other Provinces . His Palace here is compassed with a triple wall , carries the bulk and face of a fair Town ; for indeed his retinue are no fewer than might well people a large City : among the rest he hath 16000 Eunuchs daily attending , such as their own parents have emasculated in their infancy , to make them capable of this Court preferment . The seat Imperial was heretofore at Nanquim , where still remains a golden testimony of her past glory . It is a fair City thirty miles in compass , seated nine leagues from the Sea , upon a fair and navigable a River , where there rides commonly at least 10000 of the Kings Ships , besides Merchants . It hath three brick walls , the streets are six miles in length , of a proportionable breadth , and trimly paved . ( 16 ) ( 11 ) Zaiton hath 78 Towns , and 27 Cities ; the chief Zaiton , which hath a fair harbour , and is seldome without 500 ships . ( 12 ) Quinchien hath 113 Towns , and 45 Cities . ( 13 ) Chaguean , 95 Towns , and 39 Cities . ( 14 ) Susnam , 105 Towns , and 41 Cities . ( 15 ) And lastly , Quinsey 114 Towns , Cities . ( 17 ) The Metropolis is Quinsay or Suntien , the largest City of the world : for it contains 100 miles in compass : it is seated in a low and Fenny ground , is subject to Flouds , and hath been forced in very many places to erect bridges for free passage from one street to another : there are in all 12000 , built of stone , and most of them so high , that a good ship may strike under them with full sayl : each of them hath its ten watchmen for a night guard . The inhabitants of this City live luxuriously , especially their women , who are much more comely than their men ; yet all of them almost eat both Horse and Dogs flesh . Towards the South part of the City there is a great lake about 24 miles in circuit ; in the midst stand two Islands , whither the chief Nobility repair a●d invite their friends to solemnize their marriage , and have in each a stately place erected , furnished sufficiently with all fitting ornaments for a wedding jollity . In many parts of the City there are publick places of receit for such as sustain any misfortune by fire ; there they may lodge their goods safe upon a sudden casualty till they can make better provision . ( 18 ) It were vain to give a more particular Description of the many Cities which make up the several numbers in each Province : they stand so thick , and are so populous , that they all seem to be as one ; one , as well for their continued building almost , as their fashion of building ; for they all observe the same form , and dispose their streets alike ; two broad , cro●●ing each other in the middle in so strait a line , that the eye may reach clean from one end to the other . ( 19 ) We may conclude , that both the Revenues of the whole Empire , and number of Inhabitants , are not easily to be reckoned : yet this in brief , he hath subject under him 70 crowned Kings , gathers up yearly 120 millions of Crowns , stirs not into the field without 300000 Foot , and 200000 Horse . To this Empire did once belong most of the Islands in the Eastern Seas , but it seems the Chinoyse in time found , that their defence was a business of more charge than their worth countervailed : and therefore let them even slip into their own hands , and bounded their government with the Sea-coa●t ; yet for such as lye in the same Latitude , from the Tropick toward the Pole , they may most properly be named at least in this description ; and but named ; since they were before set forth in our general Map of Asia . The chief are Lequio minor , Reix Magos , Lequio major , Mazacar , Iapan , a very large Island , Insula de Maico , and Satyrorum Insula , &c. TARTARIA map of Tartary The Description of the Kingdom of TARTARY . SCYTHICARVM gens semper antiquissima . It was a judged case ( long since ) betwixt the Aegyptian and Inhabitant of this Countrey . Yet were not the Scythans the first which possest it : At least it was the first name by which they were known . For , before the entrance of Scythes the supposed Son of Hercules , we find here a people which derive their pedegree from Magog the son of Iopheth , and were called Magogins , in remembrance of their antique Founder . To this purpose Iunius and other learned interpret terram Magogin , in the 38 of Ezek. 2. and Rev. 20. 8. and so in sundry places elsewhere of divine Scripture , take it for other land , than that which was after by prophane Writers called Scythia , and Sarmatia , and now Tartaria ; though perhaps these have not all had still the same bounds from the beginning ; for what any one Kingdom of the earth hath ? All States have had their course to rise and fall , to be impaired , or enlarged , at pleasure of the most High , who disposeth of Empires as seems best in his wisdome . ( 2 ) Of the Magogins we have not much story ; yet they have left their name behind them , which is now corrupted i●to Ma●gol , as most imagine . While the Scythae bare rule , they infested their neighbours without mercy or equity ; and practised their rapines , as far almost , as they could find a subject to work on . Insomuch that they gave name to all the rude and inhumane Nations , both of Asia and Europ● ●●rth of Danubius : which ▪ for their cruelty were much feared , and for bruitish customes grown 〈…〉 the more civil parts of the World. ( 3 ) 〈…〉 barum mores , was meant of these by the Poet , and well it might . For who could be more barbar●●s than the Essedons , which lived here by the Palus M●otis , and ( as Herod , in his fourth Book of Histories delivers ) were wont to sing their Parents to the grave , invite their best friends , to feast with their fathers flesh , and use his ●k●ll as a Cup to drink in , at their lascivious banquets . Who more than the Axiacae ? who quenched their thirst with the bloud of him whom they first flew , as it gusht warm from his wounds ? Who more foolishly proud than the Agathyrsi ? who , as God and nature had come short in their making up , were used to mend their beauty by a deformed painting , and ugly staining of their bodies with motly colours . Our Picts are supposed by some to have had hence their original . ( 4 ) It were too much to recite here the other scattered Nations which over-spread the earth : for she was , as most stile her , the offi●ina generis humani : and sent forth swarms of her brood , which soon fastned themselves where●ever they set footing . For they were strong of body , bold and hardy , beyond the rule of valour ; distinguisht not right from wrong in their quarrels , but reckoned justly their own , whatever they could clasp by force of Arms. And this they all practised almost without difference of sex , unless in this , that their women were most warlike : witness that incomparable story of Tomyris , who cut off the Persian Cyrus , and 200000 more of his Souldiers at one encounter , and cast his head into a cauldron of bloud , with this upbraid , for the slaughter of her son Pergapises : Satia te ●anguine , quem sitisti . Nor was she the single one that put off the weakness of her sex to take Arms. For here lived those professed Amazons , which admitted no man into their Camps , but at set times of necessity , to preserve their race : yee were they a terrour to the world , vext a great part of Asia the less , and built the renowned Ephesus , Smyrna , Cuma , Magnesia , &c. ( 5 ) These had their time . The Gothes or Getae succeeded , and were inheritors as well of their mischievous customs , as ill-gotten possessions : for which they purchased them the na●e of Polonei ▪ among their neighbours , thieves and destroyers , such as were no less grievous to th●m th●n their predecessors . Doubtless a curse of perpetual tyranny lies upon their wicked Empire . For when next the Tartars came on , the State it self was not much bettered , nor the innocent which lay near any whit more secured . ( 6 ) These last have been supposed to be the remnant of those ten Tribes which wer● led captive by Salmanassar . How likely the Reasons are I will not dispute . But surely if so , they must have retained some knowledge of the the true God , at least some precepts of civility from their Fore-fathers , though never so long since . For what people can we read of in Stories , which have at any time been enlightned with the truth , and yet afterward fallen into that gross barbarism , which is now found among the Tartarians ? See their Character , which ( as they are by most described ) deals impartially ; gives them ill-fashioned bodies , answerable to their rude minds , fit Houses for so unclean Guests . ( 7 ) There stature is different . The most part have large shoulders , a broad face , with a crooked nose , deformed countenance , swarthy colour , hollow eyes , hairy and untrimmed beard , and head close shaved . Their speech is boysterous and clamourous ; their noise in singing like the yell of Wolves ; and endurance of Hunger , Thirst , Heat , Cold , and Watching , equals them ( in strength of body ) to the most able beast , for it exceeds the common power of a man. Their lust is without law . For they except no kindred but their own Mothers , Daughters , and Sisters : No species , for they mix with Beasts : no sex , for they are insatiate Sodomites : and yet take liberty for as many wives as they can maintain ; which contrary to our civil courses they buy of their Parents , instead of receiving dowries . Their meat is the raw flesh of Horses , without regard how they were killed , or of what diseases they died : sometimes they suck bloud from the living , to appease their Hunger and Thirst , if ( in a journey ) they be distressed for want of food . ( 8 ) Cities they have but few , nor Houses , other than moveable Tents , made of Beasts skins , which they pitch up by great multitudes , in the form of a Town , and those are called Hordes ; when the grass is once eaten bare , a●d the ground yields not meat for their Cattel , they trudge with bag and baggage to another quarter : and so in course they wander through the vast deserts , unsetled , and indeed impatient to be setled , or rather imprisoned ( as they take it ) within any one bounded compass , having the wid● world to roam in . Their chief Arms are Bow and Arrows , which they use most on Horseback , for their more speedy flight ; and have them commonly strongly poysoned , for the more sure mischief to the Foe . Their Stratagems are down right fraud , and breach of truth ; for they keep no Faith with any enemy , regard not any compact made upon terms of peace ; but follow their own sense , and commit what outrages they can with least danger to themselves . ( 9 ) Their Religion is answerable to their vile customs ; Some are Pagans , others Mahometans , yet will not be called Turks , but Bersemanni , and their chief Priest Seyd , whom they reverence more than their Maker , and admit that none should touch his Hand , but their Kings , and these too with an humble gesture : their Dukes aspire not above his knee , nor their Nobles higher than his feet : the rest are happy , if they can but reach at his garment , his horse , his any thing , so simple are they in their Superstition : and thus have they continued either Atheists or false Idolaters , ever since their first entrance upon this Kingdome in the year 1187. Before , they were not esteemed a Nation at all , but wild people , without law or reason almost , who lived in the open fields , and conversed with no other than their own Heards of Cattel . ( 10 ) Their first King was one Chinchis , a man of low birth , but high spirit , impatient of that slavish condition to which he was bred ; he brake forth at last , and drew more by his example , into the thoughts of better fortunes : which he ceased not to prosecute , till he had made good his purpose , and not only setled himself in the throne , but enlarged the dominion of the Tartars , through a great part of Asia and Europe , which had scarce before heard of any such people . His first Forces he imployed upon Tenduch and Argon , bounded with the Eastern Seas , both of them were then Provinces governed by Vnchan , or Presbyter Iohn . Soon after they got ground in Sarmatia Asiatica , followed their blow upon Russia , Hungary , and Polonia , fetcht in the Kingdoms of China , Mein , and ●engala , and left many out-reaches to their successors , which have not kept entire to this day , as being not able to match so many potent adversaries , as they have from every quarter of their Kingdome . ( 11 ) The limits are now on the North the Scythian Ocean , on the West the Muscovian Empire , Sarmatia Europoea , and mare Caspium : on the South Mount Caucasus , the Kingdom of Persia , and part of India : and on the East partly the Easterly Seas , and partly the Kingdom of China . Thus divided she contains five Provinces . ( 1 ) Tartaria minor . ( 2 ) Asiatica . ( 3 ) Antiqua . ( 4 ) Zagathai intra Imaum . ( 5 ) Cathai extra Imaum . ( 12 ) Tartaria minor is called likewise Horda Precopensium , a sort of Tartars which have their name from one City Precops , but inhabit all those plains which lie round about the ●ontus Euxinus , or Mare Magor , and Palus Maeotis , including the whole Taurica Chersonesus , so that she extends her limits from the banks of the River Boristhenes , as far as Tanais . Her chief Province is the Chersonesus , a Peninsula , seventy miles in compass , which took the name of Taurica from O●yris , who ( they say ) first ploughed this Land with a yoke of Bulls . It was invaded by one Vlanus , from whom the Inhabitants of this whole Region were sometimes called Vlani , as they were after Crym Tartars , from that City Crym , once the Kings seat of this Peninsula , though it stood not within her limits : For her principal Town was , ( 1 ) Theodosia , now Casta , where there was heretofore a Colony of Genoaes , till they were dispossest by Mahomet the eighth Emperour of the Turks . ( 2 ) Eupatoria . ( 3 ) Parthenium , &c. The other Towns of this Tartaria Precopensis , which stand without the Chersonesus , are Oc●acon , which this people took from the Dukes of Lituania and Tanas , which stands in the utmost part of this Tartaria , above the mouth of the River Tanais , some three miles distant . It is called by the Inhabitants Azac , and it is a place of great Traffique , and free access from many neighbouring Nations . Near this South-ward , begins the Palus Maeotis ▪ reacheth as far as the Taurica Chersonesus , betwixt which and the main Land , is the Bosphorus Cimmerius ; and on their South banks flows their Poutus Euxinus , which runs into the Propontis , but returns not This Sea is in some places so deep , that the water appears at top black , and was therefore called Mare nigrum . It might be thought that the people living so near the civil parts of Christendome , were better mannered than the Asiatick Tartars ; but their stubborn rudeness takes in foul scorn to be taught by any other Nation ; and therefore stands stiffly to their old course of life , in Woods and wild Fields , and cease not to commit continual murders and rapines upon the Countries adjoyning , with an inveterate hate to such as profess the Name of Christ ; insomuch that they have engaged themselves to pay yearly three hundred Christians , as tribute to the great Turk ; which number they draw out of Polonia , Russia , Lituania , Walachia , and part of Muscovia . ( 13 ) Asiatica , or Tartaria deserta & Mu●covitica , differs not much from the ancient Sarmatia As●●tica , which in Ptolomy's description is bounded on the West with the River Tanais and Palus Maeotis , on the East with Scythia intra Imaum , on the North with the Montes Hyperborei , and on the South with the mountains Coran and Caucasus . The Inhabitants live in Hordes as the rest do , which remove often , and direct their wandring course by observing the Pole-star . In this too their Hordes have divisions , and are known by several names : The chief is Zavell , which for the most part lies betwixt the Rivers Volga and Layich , and in regard it is as it were the Mother Horde to the rest , it was called magna Horda , and her Emperour Vlacham , magnus dominus ; for so he was , and had full power of a Prince , till they were subdued by the Precopen●es , in the year one thousand five hundred six , and after by Basilius Duke of Moscovia . Next to this are the Casanenses , which have their chief City Casan , upon the River Velga , near the confines of Muscovia . It was once an entire government to it self , but in the year one thousand five hundred fifty one , after many victories and revolts , it was fully and irrecoverably vanpuisht , and made an addition to the Duke of Muscovia's title . The Inhabitants here are somewhat more ingenious than the Precopenses : they till their ground , and in some places build houses , and practise Merchandise with the Turks and Moscovites . Not much unlike to these are the Astroc●anenses , situate toward the Mare Caspium , and have their name from the rich Metropolis Astrachan , twenty Italian miles distant from the mouth of Volga ; both they and it were subdued in the year one thousand four hundred ninety four , by the Duke of Muscovia . Besides these , there are many other wild Hordes of Tartars ; Of the Nohaicenses , Thumenenses , Sc●ibaschienses , Casachienses , Astnichanenses , Basc●irdi , Kirgessi , Molgamozani . These last strange Idolaters of the Sun , and a piece of a red clout , hung up before them upon a pole . They live in Caves , and feed for the most part upon such creatures as creep upon the ground : some of them are Anthropophagi . And hereabouts is the great Lake called Kvtay . ( 14 ) Tartaria Antiqua , the ancient seat of the Tartars , and Kingdom of Magog , when both the first Inhabitant was placed by the Son of Iapheth , and when these last Tartars entred , under the Command of Chinchis . It was the utmost portion of the Tartarian Empire , to the frozen Seas on her North , the Scythian on the East , and the mare de Annian : for it contains many disperst Hordes , all ( almost ) subject to the great Cham of Cathai . In the most Northern tract , which strikes into the Sea beyond the Polar circle , dwell the Dani , Neptalitae , Mecriti , &c. more South-ward the Kingdom of Tabor , and the vast desart Caraecoranum , and the Mount Altay , the place of burial for the Tartarian Emperours . Toward the East Seas , and near the Promontory of Tabin , are the Regions of Arzaret , ( which some think to be the very place first possest by the remnant of the ten Captive Tribes ) and Annian , and Argon , and Tenduch , and Mongal , and many other , whose people live after the antique manner in tents moveable : some few Cities they have , poorly built , and as rudely customed . Among other incivilities they have this fashion , to prostitute their wives and sisters to such guests , as they would entertain most friendly ; and when it was once forbad by their great Cham , they recovered it again with much suit and solemn protestation , that they had not thrived since it was laid aside , The ground b●ings forth good store of especial good Rhubarb . ( 15 ) Zagathai , the same with Scythiaintra Imaum , and is bounded upon the West with the mare Caspium , upon the East with the Desart as far as Lop : upon the North with the River Iaxartus , and upon the South with the Mount Caucasus . It hath the name from their Prince , brother to the●r great Cham , and contains in it these several Provinces : ( 1 ) Zagatai , where Tamberlane was born , and first bare rule in the City Sarmachand , a place enr●cht by his victories , and memorable for the death of Clytus , slain by Alexander in his drunken fury . The seat of the Governour is in Bochara , another town of the best note here . ( 2 ) Bactria now Coccazzan , the Inhabitants were led by ●essus , which ●lew Darius , and the first King was Zoroastes , in the time of Ninus the Assyrian , and twice tried the fortune of war with him , but was at last vanquished , and his Kingdom made a Province to the Monarchy : In several ages it hath been tossed into the hands of divers States , among the rest , the Romans had it once in their possession , at which time , the Inhabitants received knowledge of the truth from the mouth of Saint Thomas : but have lost it since by the tyranny of the Sarazens and Tartars . ( 3 ) Sogdiana , on the North of Bactria , where G●opolis stood , built for a Fort against the Scythians , and standing to the time of Alexander , who battered it to the ground . ( 4 ) Margiana , and ( 5 ) Turchestan , East of the Mare Caspium , and was the s●at of the Turks before they brake into Armenia . ( 16 ) Cathaie the same with Scythia extra Imaum , and is the Empire of the great , C ham of the Tartars , and true progeny of Chinchis ; It is compassed almost with mountains and deserts : and is divided from China , only by a great wall on the South . The soyl is exceeding fertile , and the people far more civil than in the other parts of Tartaria . Her Provinces are ( 1 ) Cathaie , wh●ch is supposed to be the Antique seat of the Seres : and is therefore called Regio Serica : For it sends forth excellent Silks , Stuffs , and Chamlets , and other rare commodities , which equalize her ( at least in her own esteem ) to the best parts of Europe . Her Metropolis is Cambelu , twenty eight miles in compass , besides the Suburbs , built four square by the River Polysangus , and enricht from India , China , and other Regions , with all sorts of Merchandise . Here their great Cham lives , but is buried at the Mount Altay , and is conveyed thither by a strong guard , which kills all they meet in the way , and commands them to serve their Lord in the other world . Maginus reports from Marcus Polus , that while he was in Cathai , ten thousand persons lost their lives upon one such occasion . ( 2 ) Tangut , which ( they say ) had the Art of Printing many hundred years before it was known among us . ( 3 ) Camul . ( 4 ) Tanifu . ( 5 ) Tebet , not much differing either from themselves , or the other parts of Tartaria , which belong to the Kingdom of Carthaie . FINIS . The Description of Virginia . VIRGINIA , now Properly so called ; and which is here peculiarly to be described , is is the most Southern part of that tract of Land , which at its first discovery ( namely by the two Cabots , and after them Iohn V●razzano a Florentine , though afterwards more distinctly by others ) was all comprehended by this name : whether from Vignina an ancient King thereof , or from our Virgin Queen Elizabeth ; the other parts being since distinguished by the names of New-England , New-York , and Mary-Land . After the more perfect discovery of these parts ( which is said to have been first encouraged and promoted by Sir Walter Raleigh ) by several worthy Adventurers ; as first Captain Philip Amidas , and Captain Arthur Barlow , Anno 1584. Sir Richard Greenvil , 1585. Mr. Iohn White , 1587 , and 1589. Captain Gosnol , 1602 , Captain Martin Pring , 1603 , set out by the City of Bristol . Captain George Weymouth , 1605 , set out by the Lord Arundel of Warder ; at last i● the year 1606 , some footing being got , for all the forementioned voyages had prov'd succesless , those that went over with Captain Newport , carrying with them a commission from King Iames for the establishing a Counsel to direct those new discoveries , landed on the 19th of December at a place afterwards called Cape Henry , at the mouth of Chesapeac-Bay , and immediately opened their Orders , by which eight of the Counsel were declared , with power to choose a President to govern for a year together with the Counsel . The next year Letters Patents bearing date April the 10th . were granted by the King to Sir Thomas Gates , Sir George Summers , and the rest of the Undertakers , who were divers Knights , Gentlemen and Merchants of London , Bristol , Exeter , Plymouth , an● other parts , to make a double Colony for the more speedy Planting of the place ; the first Colony to be undertaken by those of London , the other by those of Bristol , Exeter , Plymouth , &c. However , it was not till in some years after , that this Plantation came to be considerably peopled : and that principally by the great care , industry , and activity in this affair of the Valiant Capt. Iohn Smith , who in the year 1615 , in the 12th . of King Iames his Reign , procured by his interest at Court , his Majesties recommendatory Letters for the encouragement of a standing Lottery for the benefit of the Plantation ; which accordingly succeeded : and in two or three years time turn'd to no bad account . And perhaps the cancelling and making void of the Patent granted to the Corporation of the first Colony of Virginia , and all other Patents by which the said Corporation or Company of Adventurers of Virginia held any interest there which was done in Trinity Term 1623 , by reason of several misdemeanors and miscarriages objected against the said Corporation , was an inlet of a far greater conflux into these parts than otherwise would have been , by reason that this Corporation been dissolved , and the Plantation governed be persons immediately appointed by commission from the King , a greater freedom of Trade was opened to all his Majesties Subjects that would adventure into those parts . The greatest disturbance the English received from the Natives was in the year 1622 , when by a general insurrection of the Barbarians 300 of our men were massacred . In the year 1631 , being the 7th . of the Reign of King Charles the First , the most Nothernly part of this Countrey was parcell'd out into a particular Province , and by Patent granted to the Lord Balt●more by the name of Maryland . And in like manner in the 15th year of his present Majesty , being the year of our Lord 1663 , that part of Florida which lies South of Virginia , to Edw. Earl of Clarendon , then Lord High Chancellor of England ; George Duke of Albermarl ; William Earl of Craven ; Iohn Lord Berkley ; Anthony Lord Ashly , now Earl of Shaftsbury ; Sir George Carteret ; Sir William Berkley , and Sir Iohn Colleton , by the name of Carolina ; as is specified more at large in the particular discourses of these two Countreys . So that Virginia as it now stands , with these two Provinces lopt from it ; for in Carolina also is included some part of the Land which belonged formerly to the dissolved Company of Virgina ; extends it self only between 36 and 37 degrees ; and 50 minutes of Northern latitude , being bounded to the East by the Ocean , to the North by Mary-land , to the West by the South-Seas , and to the South by Carolina . The Air of Virginia is accounted of a temperature very wholsome and agreeable to English constitutions , ( especially since by the cut●ng down of the Woods , and the regulation of diet , the seasonings have been abated ) only within the present limits of Virginia it is somewhat hotter in Summer than that part called Mary-Land ; and the seasoning was formerly more violent and dangerous here to the English at their first landing . The Soil which is generally plain , but sometimes diversified with variety of hill and dale , is capable ( being very fertile ) of producing all things that naturally grow in these parts : besides which , there are of the proper growth of this Countrey , a sort of Plant called Silk-grass , of which is made a very fine Stuff of a silky gloss , and cordage more strong and lasting than any of hemp or flax . For fruits , the Mettaqu●sunanks , something resembling the Indian Fig ; the Chechinquamins , which come nearest to the Chesnut ; the Putchcamines , a fruit somewhat like a Damsin ; Messamines , a sort of Grape in shew ; Rawcomens , the resemblance of a Gooseberry ; Morocoks , not much unlike a Strawberry ; Macoquer , a kind of Apple ; Ocoughtanamnis , a berry much like C●pers . For Roots , Musquaspen , with the juice whereof , being a rich sort of paint , they colour their Mars and Targets ; Wichsacan , yielding a most excellent healing j●ice for wounds ; Pocones , an emulgent of much efficacy for swellings and aches ; Tockawaugh , frequently ●aten ; there is also a Plant called Matonna , of which they make bread ; and Assament , a sort of Pulse , a great delicacy among the natives . The Beasts peculiar to this Countrey are the Opassum , a certain beast which carrieth and suckleth her young in a bag which she hath under her belly ; the Assapanic or flying Squirrel ; the Mussascus , a musk-sented beast , having the shape of a Water-rat ; the Aroughena , a sort of Badger ; the Utchu●qu●is , somewhat like a wild Cat ; also a sort of beast called Roscones . Of Fish , the most peculiar is the S●ringraise , which is also common to this Countrey with New-England . So many several Towns as were anciently among the natives , so many distinct Nations there were , all Monarchical except that of the Sesquahanocks , all something differing in disposition , customs , and religious Ceremonies , and most of all in language ; but all of them in general valiant , well-set , of a tawny complexion , with black , flaggy , and long hair , crafty , and treacherous , sufficiently laborious in the art of War , which they used frequently to exercise among each other ; and wonderful lovers of hunting , in other things most scandalously lazy and indulgent to their ease ; mean in their apparel , homely in their diet , and sluttish in their houses . All Ships that come to Virginia and Mary-Land enter through the Bay of Chesapeac ; at whose opening to the South , Virginia begins between those famous Capes , Cape Henry and Cape Charles . Into this Bay which runs up 75 Leagues Northward into the Co●ntrey , and is in some places seven leagues broad , there fall several noted Rivers , the chief whereof are Iames River , formerly called Powhatan , the denomination of a very potent King of this Countrey , at the time of the English first adventuring thither : this River is found navigable 50 leagues , or thereabout . 2. York River , otherwise Pamaunke in the language of the natives ; which lies about 14 miles Northward from the other , and is navigable 26 Leagues . 3. Rapa●anock , or Topahanock , the last River of Virginia Northward , and navigable 40 leagues . 4. Patowmec River , mentioned in the Description of Mary-Land , to which part of the Countrey this River also belongs , Besides these greater Rivers , there are some others of lesser note which fall into them , as into Po●hatan or Iames River , Southward Apame●uck ; Eastward Quiyonycohanuc , Nansamund , and Chesopeac ; Northward Chickamahania , into Pamaunkee Payankatank . The English Plantation here is divided into 22 Counties ; on the Eastern shore Northampton County in Acomac ; on the Western shore Carotuc , Iames , Henrico , Charles , York , Glocester , Surry , Hartford , Warwick , Lancaster , New Kent , Surrey , Middlesex , Nansemund , Lower Norfolk , Northumberland , Westmorland , Northampton , Warwick , Isle of Wight , and Rappahanoc ; in each of which are monthly held those inferior County Courts , where matters not of highest concernment , or relating to life , are tried ; and from whence appeals are made to the Quarter Court at Iames-Town , where all criminal and Civil Causes are determined , and where the Governor and Counsel sit as Iudges . The Metropolis , or chief Seat of the English here is Iames-Town , or rather Iames-City so denominated in honour of King Iames , where the Quarter Courts , General Assemblies and Secretaries Office are kept . This Town adorned with many fair Brick-houses , and other handsome Edifices , is situated in a Peninsula on the North-side of Iames River . The other Towns and Places of chief note are Elizabeth City , seated nearer the mouth of the same River on the same side ; near which , at a place nam'd Green-spring , Sir William Berkley the present Governor , hath a very pleasant Mansion-house built of brick ; Henricopolis , or Henry's Town , so denominated from Prince Henry , living when it was first built , seated in a commodious place about 80 miles from Iames City . Dale's gift , so named from Sir Thomas Dale , Deputy Governor of the Place in the year 1610 , at whose charge it was built , and a Colony here planted ; besides others of less note , some whereof still retain the Indian names , as Wicocomoco , &c. which doubtless are by this time increased to a very considerable number , in regard of the amplitude and grandeur to which by the continual access of people , this Plantation is of late arrived . VIRGINIA and MARYLAND map of Virginia and Maryland The Description of Mary-Land . IT was in the year 1631 that his late Majesty gave a grant to George Lord Baltimore for the possessing and planting the Southern part of New-Netherland , now New-Yorkshire , lying toward Virginia ; when upon his Embassy to the States of Holland , they declared by publick writing their dissent to what-ever had been acted by any of their subjects in prejudice of his Majesties Right and Title in those parts , as hath been already mentioned . Crescentia was the name first in designation for this Countrey ; but it being left to his Majesty at the time of his signing of the Bill , to give it what denomination he judged fittest ; he was pleased in honour of his Royal Consort Queen Mary , to erect it into a Province by the name of Mary-Land : which Patent , upon the death of his Lordship , before the final ratification thereof , was not long after confirmed under the Broad-Seal of England , bearing date Iune 20 , Ann. 1632 , to his Son and Heir Coecilius the now Lord Baltimore ; investing him , his heirs and successors with the Sovereignty , attended with all Royal Prerogatives both Military and Civil , as absolute Lords and Proprietors of the said Province , saving only the Allegiance and Sovereign homage due to his Majesty , his Heirs and Successors ; of whom they were to hold it , as of his Majesties honour of Windsor ; for the yearly payment at the Castle of the said honour of Windsor on every Easter Tuesday , of two Indian Arrows of those parts ; and the fifth part of all the Gold and Silver Oar which should happen to be found there . The next year after this Patent had past , viz. in the year 1633 , a Colony of about 200 in all , Servants and Planters , ( whereof some persons of quality ) was sent over by the Lord Proprietor , under the Conduct of his Lordships two Brothers , Mr. Leonard , and Mr. George Calvert : the first of whom was made Governor of the Province for his Lordship , and from thence forward this Plantation hath prospered , and by the several supplies since sent , very much increased ; to which good success , the good Government of the said Mr. Leonard , and his strict observance of his Lordship's prudent instructions , very much conduced . The first place they pitch'd upon to plant themselves in , was Yaocomaco , now St. Maries , which the Governor purchased of the Natives ; ( for never hath any forcible or violent invasion of any mans right been made here by any of his Lordships Ministers ) with such commodities as they brought from England , though at so much the more easie rate , in regard of their pre-intentions to leave this place , as thinking it their safest course to remove farther off from their too potent and valiant Neighbours the Sesquehanocks . After the happy restauration of his present M●jesty , viz. in the year 1661 , the Lord Proprietors only So● , Mr. Charles Calvert went over into these parts , his Fathers Lieutenant ; in which charge he hath continued ever since in great tranquility and prosperity , and with general contentment and satisfaction by his obliging carriage to all that live under his Government , or have any interests or concerns in the Province . This Province , according as it is bounded and set out by the forementioned Patent , extends one way from the most Northernly part which bounds it to the South , and from which it is parted by the Southernly bank of the River Patowmeck to New-York , or the most Southernly part of New-England which bounds it Northward ; and from the Atlantick Ocean and Delaware-Bay Eastward to the true Meridian of the first Fountain of the River Patowmeck Westward . The Climate here in Summer time inclines to an extraordinary heat , and in Winter is very cold ; but both the heat of the Summer is very much allayed by cool Breeses , and the cold of the Winter is of short continuance ; so that the Country is accounted sufficiently healthful , and of late agrees well enough with English bodies , since the abatement and almost extinction , through the regulation of diet , felling of the woods , &c. of that distemper called the Seasoning , which used to be very fatal to the English at their first landing . This Countrey is for the most part champain , the Soil fruitful and abounding with many sorts of fruits and other commodities which are common in our parts of the World ; and for those that are peculiar , it cannot be imagined that in so small a distance , and even in the same Country as it hath been formerly accounted , they should differ much from those of Virginia . Yet there is a sort of fruit called a Persimon mentioned as most especially belonging to Mary-Land : and among Birds , one named the Mock-bird , from its imitation of all other Singing-birds , which differing among themselves in the mixture of their colours ; that which is black and yellow is called Baltemore-bird , from the colour of his Lordships Coat of Arms , which are Or and Sable , excelling in beauty all the other sorts . The same is to be said of the complections , customs , dispositions , government , &c. of the Natives of this Province as of those of Virgini● and other adjacent parts : that is in brief , tha● they are somewhat tawny , their hair long , black and uncurl'd , but cut into fantastical forms ; more ingenious and docile than industrious ; each Town a distinct Nation , and govern'd by i●s several Weroance or King , only the Sesqua●anocks are a Republick . As the Province is now inhabited by the English , it is divided into ten Districts or Counties , five on the Eastern-shore of the Bay of Chespeack , namely Dorchester , Somerset , Kent , Caecil , and Talbot ; and five on the West side of the Bay , St. Maries , ( where the Provincial Court , or chief Court of Iudicature consisting of Governor and Consiliar Iudges , is held every quarter of a year ) Anne Arundel , Baltemore , Charles and Calvert . The chief Rivers of this Country are Patowmec , Patuxent , Ann Arundel alias Severn , Sasquesahanough , Choptank , Nantecoke , Pocomoke , besides others of less note : of those mentioned , the first four on the West side , the other three to the East fall into Che●apeack Bay , which is navigable for 200 miles , and which between two Capes , Cape Charles to the North , and Cape Henry to the South , being seven or eight leagues distant , receives all the Ships that come for Virginia or Mary-Land , and passeth Northernly through the midst of Mary-Land . On the Eastern shore of this Bay are divers convenient Harbours , Creeks and Islands ; and Northward thereof is the entrance of Delaware Bay. The original Seat , and Principal City of this Province where the Provincial Courts , the general Assembly , the Secretaries office , and other publick offices are held : and where the seat of Trade is fixt , is St. Maries , situate in St. Maries County , on the East-side of St. Georges River . Here formerly at the Palace of St. Iohns , the Governor Mr. Charles Calvert used to reside ; but he hath now a very pleasant and commodious habitation at a place called Mattapany upon the River Patuxent , about eight miles from St. Maries : here is also another fair house where the Chancellor usually resides . There were also some years since in all the rest of the Counties the foundations of Towns laid , which no doubt by this time are very near , if not altogether compleated , particularly in Calvert County near the River Patuxent ; 1. Calverton in Battle-creek : 2. Harvy Town over against Point Patience : 3. Herington upon the Cliffs . As for the present Government of Mary-Land by the English , the Lord Proprietor in the first place is invested , as hath been mentioned , with an absolute power and dominion ; by whose sole command all things relating to peace or War are ordered ; and in whose name issue forth all publick Instruments , Patents , Warrants , Writs , &c. In the enacting of Laws he hath the consent and advice of the general Assembly , which is made up of two Estates ; the first consisting of his Lorships Privy Council , ( of which the Chancellor and Secretary alwaies are ) and such Lords of Manors as are called by his special Writ , the other of the Deputies of each Province , elected by the free voice of the Free-holders of the respective Province , for which each Deputy is chosen . The names of the present Governor , the prime Officers of State , and the rest of his Lordships Privy Council are as followeth : the Governor Mr. Charles Calvert , his Lordships Son and Heir : the Chancellor Mr. Philip Calvert , his Lordships Brother : the Secretary Sr. William Talbot : the Muster-Master General Mr. William Calvert : Mr. Baker Brook , all three his Lordships Nephews : the Surveyor General Mr. Ierome White , Mr. Edw. Lloyd , Mr. Henry Coursy , Mr. Thomas Trueman , Major Edward Fitz-Herbert , Mr. Samuel Chew . Vast quantities of Tobacco , the grand Trade of this Province of Mary-Land are yearly vended from hence , not only in England , but likewise in several of the other English Plantations : besides the importation also of some other commodities , to the great improvement of his Majesties Revenue by Custom and Excise . The common way of traffick here is by barter or trucking of commodities one for anotherr ; though money is not altogether wanting , as well of the coin of England and other parts , as of his Lordships own Coin being stampt on the one side with his Lordships Coat of Arms , with this circumscription , Crescite & Multiplicamini ; and on the other side with his Effigies , and this circumscription , Caecilius Dominus Terrae Mariae , &c. The Description of New-England . WHat hath been said in General of the discovery of Virginia , largely so called , may in consequence be applyed to this Country of New-England ; being as above mentioned , one of the three principal Colonies comprehended therein : but in the year 1602 , it began to be more particularly known a part from the rest , from the discovery as some think , of Captain Gosnold ; and in the year 1606 , it was granted by Patent by King Iames , to divers Lords and Gentlemen under the denomination of the Plymouth Company ; yet after that several that set out for this Plantation successively , either miscarried or returned re infecta , as first Captain Henry Chaloung , who meeting with the Spanish Fleet that came from the Havana was with all his Company carried Prisoner into Spain : Not long after , Thomas ● Haman sent to the succour of Chaloung by Sr. Iohn Popham Lord cheif Iustice of England . Next Captain Prinne set out by the Bristol Company , whose Voyage , though it had not its wisht success , yet he returned with a farther discovery of the Coast than had been made before . Not long after George Popham and Raleigh Gilbert , were fitted out at the charge of Sir Iohn Popham , with one hundred men , who though they had seated themselves not uncommodiously in a Peninsula at the mouth of the River Sagadahoc , and were upon making farther discoveries ; yet in the year 1608 , upon the death of George Popham their Commander , and soon after of the Lord Chief Iustice , they returned into England , notwithstanding supplies had but lately been sent them , to the very great distaste of the chief promoters of the design ; and whereupon the French had taken occasion to plant themselves in these parts , had they not been timely expelled by Sr. Samuel Argal from Virginia . The next that attempted a settlement here , was Captain Hobson , who by reason of the opposition raised against him by two Natives , whom having been detained some while in England he took back along with him , upon an affront offered them by some of the English , was forc't to return without effecting of any thing , notwithstanding which insuccess , he ventured again , having under his command several Land Soldiers in the company of Captain Harly , who was fitted out by Sr. Ferdinando Gorges then Governour of Plymouth . Afterwards in the year 1615 , there went Sr. Richard Hawkins , then Captain Rocroft ; after him Captain Dormer : And in the year 1623 , Captain Robert Gorges . By all which Voyages , however though this Plantation was not brought to any settlement , by reason of the many misfortunes and disappointments that attended them ; yet so many of them as were made , and following so thick upon the neck of each other , could not but add much light to the discoveries that were first produced , and at least make way for future improvements : but that which chiefly conduced to the full peopling , and that flourishing estate which this Colony at present injoys , was that general aversion at that time grown to a great height , against the Church Government of this Nation , which caused multitudes of people greedily to take hold on this occasion , that they might betake themselves to a place where they might securely indulge to that liberty of Conscience they so much desired , and for which many of them had fled before into Holland , especially when at length upon consideration of the little loss , but rather benefit , the absence of persons so disaffected and unconformable would be to the Kingdom , and of the advantage that would accrue to the Colony from the supplement of so great a number of people , free liberty was granted for their transportation . So that in the year 1630 , there landed of them a very considerable number at Plymouth Plantation , and that without any opposition from any of the Natives , one great reason whereof might probably be the great Mortality that hapned at that time among the Narragansetts , Niantics , Tarantines , Wippanaps , Peoods , those of Agissawang , Pockaneki , and Abargini , and other chief Tribes of the Indians of these parts . From this time forward , what with the industry of the people , and the continual supplies that were sent from time to time for some years , they soon increased to a great height , and are become at present one of the most powerful and thriving of the English Plantations in America . At the●r first arrival they divided themselves into four sub-Colonies , the Massachusets , Plymouth , Canectico , and New-haven , which commonly met toge●her in Counsel upon all important occasions , either of Peace or War : As some little Wars they had at first , chiefly with the Pequods , whom nevertheless they quickly subdued , having first concluded a Peace with Cannonicus the supream Sachem of the Narragansits . This County lying in the midst of the temperate Zone between the 41 and 45 degrees of Northern Latitude , and aequidistant between the Artic circle and Tropic of Cancer in the same Parellel with France , and some part of Italy ; is bounded to the North-East with Norumbigua , to the South-West with Novum Belgium or New-Netherlands now New-York . The temperature of the Air , and fertility of the Soil differs not remarkably , as may well be imagined , from the rest of the Virginian tract ; and consequently affords the like plenty and variety of all sorts of Commodittes , yet there are reckoned as chiefly appropriated to this part of the Country divers kinds of Plants , and Trees , among which the Cedar , the Sprewse , sassafras , and Dyers Sumach , and also some peculiar Beasts , Birds , and Fishes . Of Beasts , the Musquash less than a Beaver , but much resembling it in shape , the Musky Scent whereof proceeds from the stones of the male , and whose skins in regard of their sweet Scent , are brought over as rich Presents . The Moose as big an Ox , slow of foot , yet in shape somewhat like a red Dear , and headed like a Buck , yielding flesh good for meat , hides for cloathing : This Beast in regard of its fruitfulness ( for the female brings forth three at a time ) and its hardiness ; for it will live in winter without fodder , may be with good advantage kept tame , and accustomed to the Yoke . The Rackoon , tailed like a Fox , otherwise like a Badger , but with a deep furr : This beast sleeps by day in a hollow tree ; in moonshiny nights at low tide it feeds on Clams by the Sea-side . Of Birds , the Loon , a most ill-favoured bird not much unlike the Cormorant , and very unweildy , for it cannot fly , and scarce go ; it makes a noise like a Sow-gelders horn . The Humility or rather Simplicity , in regard it so simply exposeth it self to the shot of the fowler , the bigger sort is about the bigness of a green Plover , the other no bigger than that sort of bird we call here a Knot : but the Humbird is no less curious and remarkable than any other bird whatsoever , whether in New-England or any other part of the World , if we consider the rarity of its bulk , it being no bigger then a Horne● , yet having the perfect shape and proportion of a bird ; it seems to take its name from the humming noise it makes . Of Fishes the most peculiar are the Seal or Sea-calf , chiefly prised for its Skin , next for its Oyl , of which it yields a large quantity , the chief use whereof is to burn in lamps ; for its flesh wholly useless , as not fit to be eaten . The Shark sometimes as big as a horse , having three rows of teeth with which they have many times snapt off the hands and feet of men as they swam : With the flesh of this fish ( being good for nothing else ) they oft manure Land. The Hollibut , a fish in shape somewhat resembling a Pleace , but of a far larger size , that is to say , two yards long , one wide , and a foot thick , the best of this for the table is accounted the head and fins , especially baked or stew'd . The Basse , a fish of all others in these parts accounted the greatest delicacy to eat , exceeding Ling or Haberdine , when salted up for winter , as usually the bodies of them are , the heads being eaten fresh ; the common size is two or three foot long . The Clam or Clamp , a shell-fish , having some resemblance of a Cockle , with a round hole by which it takes in and spouts out water continually , the biggest of them which are as big as a large apple , are among the Natives a great dainty , and by the English not altogether despised . The Alewife , a sort of fish most like a Herring , coming up once a year , namely in April , in vast shoales into Rivers and fresh waters to spawn , from whence till they have spawned , not the most violent disturbance that can be devised , can force them to return . Of Noxious Creatures the chief is the Rattle Snake , being generally a yard and a half long , thick in the middle , yellow bellied , spotted on the back with various colours , its thin neck stretching into a wide swallow , wide mouthed , with teeth as sharp as needles , wherewith such as are bitten cannot be cured , but by chawing the root of snake-weed , and applying the chawed root to the wound : which root chawed by any that are not thus bitten , is of it self poyson . Of Insects the most peculiar and principal are the Wild Bee , as they call it , which building habitacles like Cobwebs among the Vine leaves , guards the Grapes . The Gurnipper , which no bigger than a flea , bites also like a flea , though somewhat more rancorously , and lives but three weeks . The Musqueto , which lives chiefly in thick woods or swamps , scarcely induring wind , or excess of cold or heat , but in thick close weather , and against rain it raiseth where it bites a venomous kind of itching . The ancient Inhabitants of this part of the Country were formerly divided into several Tribes or petty Nations , the chief whereof were East and North-East the Churchers and Tarentines : Southward the Pequods and Naragansetts : Westward the Canectacuts and Mawhacks : North-West , the Aberginians ; all which people how different from each other in nature and disposition in so small a compass of ground , is wonderfull to imagine ; the Mawhacks most bloudy , savage , and man-eaters : The Tarentines little less cruel , but not Canibals : The Aberginians more mild , innocent , and harmless , &c. But in religious Ceremonies , Habit , Civil manner of Government , Marriages , Burials , Ingenuity in Arts and Manufactures , Games and Exercises , not materially differing . Among the rest , which it would be too tedious here to insist upon ; it is observable that the figures of Beasts and other things described upon their bodies , are not described by superficial painting , but by incision and impunction of colours between the skin and the flesh . What Provinces this Country was anciently divided into , I find not otherwise than acco●ding to the several Tribes or people already mentioned : Only there is peculiar mention made of the Province of Laconia , now inalrged into a greater , called the Province of Main , and much about the same , either more or less with the Country of the Troquois anciently so called . The name of Laconia seems derived from those Lakes , which are the most noted , if not only ones of New-England , but since is one grand one named the Lake of Trequois made by the River Sagadahoc , and said to contain 60 Leagues in length , and 40 in breadth , in which Connent there are about four or five pretty large Islands . The Rivers of this Country are Tamescot , Agomentico , Nansic , Conecticut , Sagadahoc , Apanawapesk , Merimec , Pascat●way , Newishwavoc , Mistic , Neraganset , Pemnaquid , Ashamahaga , Tachobacco , the most of which have English denominations , and among the rest , Chir●s River . The number of well built Towns is far greater here , than in any of the rest of his Ma●esties American Plantations , by reason it was so numerously peopled from the very first time of its settlement . The first is Boston , by the Indians called Accomonticus , the principal Town or City , and chief seat of Government , secured with three hills , whereon strong Fo ●●s are raised . 2. St. Georges Fort , the first place where any Plantation was setled , being at the mouth of the River Sagadahoc . 3. New Plymouth , the first Rendezvous of our Nonconformists , s●ated on the Bay of Pawtuxed . 4. Mahumbec or Salem , delightfully seated on a neck of Land between two Rivers . 5. Mashawnut or Charles Town , seated on an Isthmus or neck of Land on the North of a River called Charles River , and through a part of which the River Mestic runs ; it is adorned with a handsome Church , and a fair Market place near the River side . 6. Roxbury a pleasant place for fruitful Gardens and fresh Springs , between Boston and 7. Dorchester , no less pleasant for Gardens and Orchards , and watered with two small Rivers , though standing near the Sea-side ▪ 8. Pigsgusset or Water Town upon one of the branches of the River Charles . 9. Linne , by the Indians named Saugus , between Salem and Charles Town . 10. Amoncangen or New-Town , now Cambridge , built in the year 1633 , between Charles-Town and Water-Town , on the River Merimec : it is the only University of New-England , having two Colledges , and was once the seat of Government . 11. Sawacatus or Ipswich , seated on a pleasant River in the Sagamoreship of Aggawan , now called Es●x . 12. Newbury 12 miles from Ipswich , near Merimec River . 13. Hartford built by the people of Cambridge . 14. Concord , seated upon a branch of the River Merimec . 15. Hingham , a Sea-coast Town South-East of Charles River . 16. Dukesbury alias Sandwich , situate also upon the Sea-coast in Plymouth Government . 17. Newhaven , built in the year 1637 , by a new supply near the shalles of Capecod . 18. Dedham , in the County of Suffolk , 12 miles from Boston . 19. W●ymouth a Sea-Town . 20. Row●y 6 miles North-East from Ipswich . 21. Hamptou , built in the year 1639 , in the County of Norfolk near the Sea-coast . 22. Salisbury , overagainst Newbury , on the other side the River Merimec . 23. Aguwon or Southampton , built in the year 1640 , by a supply that settled in long Island . 24. Sudbury built in the same year . 25 Braintre bu●lt at Mount Wollaston , by some old Planters of Boston . 26. Glocester , built in the year 1641 , by Mr. Ri●hard Blindman at Cape Anne . 27. Dover , situate upon Pascatoway 〈◊〉 North-East of B●ston . 28. W●burn , built in the year 1642. 29. Reading , built in the year 1644. 30. Wenham , in the Matachusetts Government , between Salem and Ipswich . 31. Springfield , built in the year 1645 , by Mr. Pinchin conveniently for a brave trade with the Indians upon the River Canectico . 32. Haverhill , founded in the year 1648 , and not long after , 33. Malden by some that came out of Charles Town , which lies over against it on the other side the River Mistic . 34. Oxford , alias Sagoquas . 35. Falmouth , alias Totum . 36. Bristol . 37. Hull , alias Passataquac . 38. Dartmouth , alias Bohanna . 39. Exeter . 40. Greens Harbour . 41. Taunton , alias Cohannet . 42. Norwich , alias Segocket . 43. Northam , alias Pascataqua . 44. Yarmouth . 45. Berwick . NEW ENGLAND and NEW YORK mapof New England and New York The Description of New-Neatherlands , now called New-York . NOvum Belgium , or New-Netherland , now called New-York , was first discovered by Henry Hudson , Aun : 1609 , at the charge of the East-India Company ; but in regard he return'd without leaving any men upon the place ; the Dutch in the year 1614 , under Adrian Block and Godyn began to plant themselves there ; and doubtless had soon setled themselves , ( upon a double pretence ; first , as finding the place not pre-possest , and therefore free for any that would enter : next , as having contracted with Hadson for his interest , and bought all his Charts and Instruments ) had not Sir Samuel Argal , then Governor of Virginia , disputed the business with them . And upon a serious debate and conference with them about it , wherein he alledged that Hudson being a Subject of the King of England , and acting solely by his commission , had not power to alienate any Countrey he discovered for the King his Master , without his Majesties consent ; but that this Countrey more especially belonged to him as his own Dominion , being accounted part of the Province of Virginia : he brought them to acknowledge the King of England's Title , and to submit to the holding of the Countrey as feodatory of the Crown of England , and under the Government of Virginia . Yet this compliance was not of a very long continuance ; for upon the expectation of a new Governor they fell back into their first principles , and made no scruple to usurp the whole Soveraignty ; and to denominate it their own , called it by the name of Novum Belgium , or the New Neatherlands : and moreover they fell to building of Towns and Forts ; the Town they erected they called New Amsterdam ; their first Fort Fort-Orange ; after which they raised another by the name of Fort-Ams●el . However , these proceedings upon complaints made to his late Majesty , and by him represented to the States of Holland , were absolutely disowned by them , and wholly laid upon the East-India Company of Amsterdam ; upon which the most Northernly part toward New-England , was by his Majesty granted by Patent to Sir Edmund Loiden , by the name of Nova Albion ; the most Southernly toward Virginia , to Sir George Calvert , now Lord Baltimore , by the name of Mary-Land ; and the Dutch upon some consideration agreed on , were forthwith to have quitted the place : yet for all this , as the custom of this people is , never to let go any opportunity that serves their turn , whether by right or wrong , taking advantage of the unhappy dissentions and civil wars that soon after hapned in this Nation , they not only stood upon higher demands than were at first agreed on , but also endeavoured to stir up the Natives against the English , that they might have the better opportunity to fix themselves . In this state things remained till his present Majesty , after his restauration , resolving to make a full determination of his right to these parts , sent three Men of War , by whom New Amsterdam being easily reduc'd , the Countrey came thenceforth into the sole possession of the English , and was immediately , together with Long Island , conferr'd by his Majesty upon the Duke of York , by the t●tle of York-shire , which hath now quite swallowed up that of New Neatherland ; the name of New Amsterdam being chang'd into that of New York ; of Fort-Orange into Fort-Albany ; of Fort-Amscel into Fort-Iames . Moreover the Patent of Mary-Land hath been by his present Majesty renewed , and confirmed to Cecil Lord Baltemore ; by whose extraordinary care and promotion it hath been of late advanc'd to a very populous , well regulated , and thriving Pian●ation ; as is observed more at large in the description of the Province of Mary-Land . This Countrey of New York-shire contains all that tract of Land lying between New England which bounds it to the North-east ; and Virginia , or rather Mary-Land , which bounds it to the South-west , extending from the 38 th degree and an half of Northern latitude , to the 41 st . and 15 min. The bredth of it about 200 miles . Within this tract of Land are three Island , Mu●● hatans Island ; in which stands the Town of New-York , Long Island , and Staten Island . The temperature of the Climate , fertility of the Soil , and productions of the Earth , differ not materially from New England , and other adjacent parts . The principal Rivers are three , Hudson's River , formerly nam'd Manhattes , by the Dutch , Nassorius , or Noordt River ; one branch whereof called Hell-gate , empties it self over against the Isle of Manhet●n , or Isle of Nuts , near New-York ; another at May-Port , or the Port of Cornelius May. 2. Zuid River , the same , as I take it , which is also by some term'd Raritan . 3. Delaware-Bay River . 4. Afterskull . The only noted Town of New York-shire was built by the Dutch , by the title of New Amsterdam , though now wholly changed into that of New-York , in the neck of the Island of Manhatans ; with very fair Streets , and well-built Houses . For the security of this Town , on one side thereof is a Fort , which was at first term'd Fort-Amscel , now Iames Fort. This Town is govern'd by a Mayor , Aldermen , a Sheriff and Iustices of the Peace . The nature and complexion of the native Inhabitants differ not much from those of the Fl●ridans : but their customs , habits , and ceremonies in Religion are not altogether the same . They observe no set-meals , but eat as oft as their appetite serves : their Sappaen , which is Indian Wheat stampt and boyled to pap , is a great dish with them . Men turn away their Wives upon the least occasion imaginable , and marry again ; nor scruples any one to marry a woman that hath been lain w●th befo●e , when a single woman . Both men and women wear a girdle of Whale-sins , and Sea-shells , the men putting half an ell of cloath three quarters broad between their legs , so as that a square piece hangs before over his belly , another below behind his back . The women wear a coat that reaches half way down their legs , curiously wrought with Sea-shells ; and for an upper garment they have a large Dear-skin , the lappets whereof hang full of points , button'd on the right shoulder , and tied about the middle . The men go bare-headed ; the women tying their hair behind in a tuft , wear over it a square-cap , wrought with Sea-shells ; of which they also wear chains and bracelets about their middle , neck and arms : the men paint their faces with several colours ; the women use only here and there a black spot : their usual painting colours are either the Iuices prest out of several Plants , or the fine ground powders of certain curious coloured Stones : the chief of these plants hath a great resemblance to a myrtle , especially in its leaves : out of the red berry of this plant a juice is squeezed , and dried in the Sun , and preserved for ordinary use in bags ; when they have occasion to use it , they temper it with water , producing the richest purple colour that can be imagined : they use pleated hair , which being coloured red , hath a fine gloss , in stead of feathers . It is observable in their religious worship that in the midst of their sorceries and diabolical ceremonies , the Devil , whom alone they worship , as the regent of mischief , and sitting president in every bodily pain , and therefore most proper to be sought and oblig'd , is said to appear in the shape of a wild or tame beast , informing them obscurely of things to come ; and portending , if the first , bad ; if the last , good fortune . Yet they acknowledge a God , who living in profound bliss , not troubling himself with humane affairs , solaceth himself with a Goddess of most surpassing beauty , and the Mother of all terrestrial creatures . Moreover , they believe that the souls of those that have lived well here , are translated after their decease to some Southern Clime , where they live in utmost pleasure and delight : whereas the souls of the wicked are hurried up and down in a miserable vagrancy . Remarkable also is the manner of their proceeding against Criminals condemned to death ; which is , to hunt them like wild beasts into the woods ; whither , in stead of being committed to Prison , they are forced , or rather suffered to fly ; as soon as he is discovered , the King having first shot , if he miss , the rest follow ; and happy is he who hath the fortune to give the Malefactor his deaths-shot , for he is sure to be made a Captain , or some eminent Commander in the Wars . Not to mention the several beasts , birds , and other animals that are common to this Countrey , with the European Countreys in general , or with other parts of America ; there is seen on the borders of New-York towards Canada , a sort of beast , which in its cloven feet and shaggy main resembles an Horse , in its neck a Dear , in its tail a wild-Hog , having black eyes , and an horn in the midst of the forehead . Of this animal the males never keep company with the females , except at time of copulation . Toward the South are many Buffalo's , a beast in shape between an Horse and a Stag ; like the last of which it hath branchy horns ; also a skin for thickness not easily penetrable : the tail is short , the hair varying colour each succeeding season , the lips hanging , the teeth small : this beast , though strong , is subject to the Falling-sickness , and dies of a small wound . When hunted by the dogs , it defends it self by vomiting out an hot scalding liquor upon them . The chief Trade of this Countrey at present consists of Corn and Cattel ; though great plenty of Flax is also sowed , at least sufficient for so much wearing cloath as serves for the use of the Inhabitants themselves , who live in very happy plenty and quiet , and very good amity and correspondence with the Indians , especially ever since the arrival of Collonel Nichols ; who about eight years since , upon the Patent granted of this Countrey , by his Majesty , to his Highness the Duke of York , was sent over his Highness's Deputy Governor . IAMAICA map of Jamaica The Description of Iamaica . THis is one of those Islands which by some are called the Antilles , or Camercan●s ; the rest being Hispaniola , Cuba , Porto-rico , and several others ; though there are by whom the Antilles are accounted the same with the Caribes . But setting aside that dispute , this is agreed on ; that it was one of the first discovered places of America , by Christopher Columbus , under whose conduct the Spaniards first planted themselves in the North-west part of the Isle , and built Melila , but soon removed to O●istana , and from thence afterwards to another more healthful place , where they built a fair City , by the name of St. Iago de la Vega ; and here they setled till the year 1655. In which the English failing of that grand exploit in which they were employed by Oliver Cromwel for the taking of St. Domingo in Hispaniola , made their retreat hither ; and though but the remnants of a broken Army , were yet strong enough to force their entrance . Nor was this the first time ; for in the year 1596 , the English , under Sir Anthony Shirly , took the Island , putting the Spaniards to flight : though either not able , or not thinking it worth the while to keep it , they soon quitted the place . But this second seizure hath taken faster hold ; insomuch , that what with the natural fe●tility of the place , and the great improvements that have been m●de of late , it is become one of the richest of his Majesties Plantations , and scarce inferior to any Colony in the West-Indies ; b●ing also become so well peopled , so increased in Shipping , and other advantages , by the c●ntnual supplies that have been sent from time to time , as not to fear invasion from any Naval power that can be made either by the Spaniard or any other Prince . Whereas the Spaniard not regarding the place equal to its valew , and rather affecting Hispaniola ; especially in regard of the absolute Lordship and Proprietorship which the Dukes of Veragua Columbus the descendants of Christopher had over Iamaica ; had so slenderly peopled it , that no wonder they were so easily dispossest as they were : for though at first flying to the mountains they stood upon terms of treaty , depending upon effectual Succours to be sent them : yet those Succours not coming equal to expectation , and those that came from Cuba and other parts , 500 at one time , and 30 small Companies at another , being defeated by L. General Edw. Doyly , the Negroes also abandoning their Masters in their declining condition , and revolting to the prevailing Party : they were forced at last to quit the Island , and leave the English absolute Masters thereof . And it is but just they should be for ever ejected out of a Possession which they had gained with so much cruelty : for it is received for a general truth , that at their first arrival here , and in Po●to-Rico , no less than 60000 of the native Inhabitants were in a few years destroyed by their inhumane tyranny ; whereby such an universal aversion was conceived against them , that women oft-times chose rather to strangle children in the birth , than bring them forth to that servitude and misery they were like to undergo under such a tyrannical Nation . This Island of Iamaica being in form very near oval ; in length from East to West above 160 miles ; in bredth , where broadest , 170 ; in compass 450 : lies almost eq●ally between the Equat●r and the Tropick of Cancer , in the 17 and 18 degrees of Northern Latitude , bearing South from Hispanigoa about 25 leagues , South-east from Po●to-Rico about 160 leagues . The Air of this Islana is much more temperate than in any of the Caribes ; and though more Southernly than Hispaniola and the rest of the Antilles , yet not less mild , by reason of the breezes or cool winds which blow Easternly from 9 in the morning till noon ; and Westernly from 8 a clock at night till the next morning ; as also the frequent showers , and nightly dews : the length of the day and night is pretty near an equality all the year long , and Winter being only distinguished by somewhat more than usual rain and thunder , and that chiefly in May and November . The Soil is generally rich and fat , consisting of a blackish earth , mixt with clay in the North-parts , and in the South-west parts more red and loose ; but generally in all parts so productive , that the Woods , and Havanas , or Pasture-Meadows , discover a continual verdure . The Cocao is so principal a commodity here , that the culture and management thereof is one of the great employments of the Countrey , and sets a great number of people on work ; there being already above 60 Cocao-walk's brought to perfection , besides what in some places are growing up , and in others newly planted . It abounds also with many other rich Plants , precious Drugs , aromatick Spices , and delicious Fruits ; as Fustick , Redwood , Loggwood , Mothogeny , B●asilletto , Guaiacum , Ebony , Granadilla , Ginger , Cod-Pepper , Piement or Iamaica Pepper , China , Sarsaparilla , Tamarinds , Vinillos , Achiots or Anetto , Contrayerva , Cyperas Assole Pie , Adjuntum Nigr●m , Cucumis Agrestis , Sumach and Acacia , Pomegranats , Oranges , Limes , G●avars , Mammes , Alume●-Supotas , Avocatas , Suppotillias , Ca●hues , Prickle-apples , Dildows , Sower-sops ; besides several others whose names are not known . Of the Beasts , Birds and Fishes of this Countrey , there are only mentioned such as are frequent and familiarly known among us ; only some noxious creatures there are which are common to this place , with some of the Caribbe Isles , and other places of America , as the Manchonele , in form somewhat like a Crab , the Guiana , a kind of Snake , and the Alligator , which seems to be a kind of American Crocodile . The most noted River of Iamaica runs by Los Angelos , and St. Iago , and falls into Cagway-Bay . The Bays , Roads and Harbours of this Island are both many , and very convenient ; of which the most considerable are , 1 , Cagway , now chiefly known by the name of Port-Royal , abundantly commodious for Shipping , as being in most places two or three leagues over , and so deep , that a Ship of 1000 Tun may load and unload close to the shore , secured by a Castle , one of the strongest and best provided of any in his Majesties American Dom●nions , and land-lock'd by a point of land which runs 12 miles Sou●h-east from the main land ; by reason of which advantages and conveniences it is become the chief place of ●rade in the whole Isle , and much frequented both with Men of War and Merchant-men , there being built upon the said point no less than 800 houses for Merchants , Warehouse keepers , Vin●ners , and other Trades : yet in other respects it is ill enough provided , having neither accommodation of wood or fresh-water . It is seated about 12 miles from St. Iago de la V●ga , the chief Town of the Island . 2 , Port-Morant , a capacious Harbour , sufficiently convenient for wooding and watering , and where Ships may ride secure from the winds : it lies on the Eastern Point , where the English have a good substantial Colony . 3 , Port Antonio , a very secure land-lock'd Harbour in the North-part of the Isle , not otherwise incommodious except in the entrance , which is somewhat impeded by a small Island that lies before it : this place belongs to the Earl of Carl●sle . 4 , Point-Negril , a good Harbour for the secure riding of S●ips , North-east of which lies the old Town of Melilla : this Bay lies on the utmost Western-point of the Island . 5 , Old Harbour , a commodious Bay lying Westward from St. Iago . Besides these which are the most noted , there lie along the Coast of this Island many other not inconvenient Bays , viz. in the North-part Porto-Maria , Ora-Cabessa , Cold-Harbour , Rio-Novo , Montego-Bay , Orange-Bay : in the South-part Cabarita's Bay , Blewfields Bay , Lewana Bay , Pallate Bay , Point Pedro , Allegator Point , Micary Bay , Michaels Hole . This Island is divided into 14 Precincts or Parishes ; those on the North-side are St. Georges , St. Maries , St. Annes , St. Iames's , and St. Elizabeths , besides two more unnam'd . those on the South-side Port-Royal , St. Katharines , St. Iohns , St. Thomas , St. Andrews , St. Davids , and Clarendon . The Towns are only these following ; 1 , Sevilla , the first Town of any note built by the Spaniards , situate in the North-part of the Island , and formerly grac'd with a stately both Monastery and Collegiate Church ; in one whereof Peter Marty● , the fam'd Author of the Historical Decads of the West-Indies had been Abbot , invested with Episcopal Iurisdiction . 2 , Melilla , the first place of settlement of the Spaniards in this Island ; in the North-west part whereof it lies , landing under the condu& of Columbus ; who in his return from Veragu● , where he had like to have been Shipwrack'd , put in here to mend his Ships . 3 , Orista , a Town lying upon the South-Sea , whither , the Spaniards disliking the situation of Melilla , removed . Before this place lie several little Rocks and Islands , as Serrana , so called from Augustin Pedro Serrana , who saving himself with much ado from Shipwrack , lived here a solitary life for some years , Quitosv●na and Servavilla . 4 , St. Iago de la Vega , lying six miles from the Sea-side , North-west : the fixt Seat of the Spaniards , upon their abandoning of Oristam , also as a place unhealthfully and incommodiously situated ; and at last accounted the Metropolis , or principal Town of the Island , having two Churches , two Chappels , an Abby , and about 2000 Houses . When the English made themselves Master of the Countrey , by whom although at their first arrival it was very much demolished and defac'd : yet since their settlement here it hath begun to grow up to its former splendor , and continues still the predominant Town , and the principal place of Iudica●ure , and all affairs relating to the Government , and where the Governor keeps his most constant residence . 5 , Port-●oyal , a Port-Town about 12 miles distant from St. Iago , next to which it is at this time the most important place , and for Trade rather exceeding it , as being the principal of all the Ports , among which it hath been already more particularly mentioned . 6 , Passage , a small Town in the mid-way between St. Iago and Port-Royal , whence it hath its denomination , being just six miles from each , and built chiefly for the conveniency of travelling from one to the other . It lies upon the mouth of the River , and hath a Fort raised for its security . The present Governor of this Island for his Majesty of Great-Britain , is Sir Thomas Linch . BARBADOS map of Barbados The Description of Barbadoes . AMong those Islands generally called the Caribes , by others less properly the Antilles ; which name Sanson attributes to those greater Islands of Hispaniola , Cuba , &c. Barbadoes is certainly the most flourishing , and best peopled of all of them that are possest by the English , if not all the Caribes in general : first discovered by Christopher Columbus . The first Colony planted in this Island was in the year 1627 , and that by the English , who have all along kept continual and undisturb'd possession . This Island being of an oval form , about eight leagues in length ▪ and five in bredth , is seated in the latitude of 13 degrees , and 20 seconds ; on the North-east of St. Vincent , very strong both by Nature and Art , as being guarded with Rocks and Shoals , and a well-grown wood , which invirons the whole Island ; and also fortified with Rampiers , Trenches , Palisadoes , and Counterscarfs , three Forts , and a standing Militia , consisting of two Regiments of Horse , and five of Foot , well disciplin'd , and ready at a short warning . The weather here is so hot for eight months , that it would be very intollerable to travellers , but for the cool breezes which rising and mounting with the Sun , blow generally from the North-east and by East , except in the time of the Tornado , when for a few hours they change into the South . Yet notwithstanding this great heat of the Air , it is also so moist , that all iron-tools , without continual use , are wonderfully apt to contract rust . This heat and moisture of ●he Air , besides the natural fertility of the Soil , causeth here no less increase than delight ; insomuch that the fields and woods are continually green , and bring forth their Crops all the year long . However , the two most proper times of the year for planting , are May and November . The Sun riseth and sets here at six all the year long , and makes the days and nights of an equal length , except in October , and then the difference is but small . The principal productions of this Island are Logwood , Fustick , Indico , Cotton , Ginger , and Sugars ; with which four last Commodities it drives a very vast Trade , and supplies not only England and Ireland , but also several of his Majesties other Dominions in America . The Sugar-canes are planted all the year lo●g , and yield better Sugar , when refin'd , ( though not altogether so white ) than that of Brasile . Nor is there wanting here store of Tobacco , in which also a considerable Trade is driven . The chief Fruits , besides what are familiar here with us , are Pomegranats , Citrons , Dates , Oranges ; Limes , Macows , I●niper-apples , Papayers , Custard-apples , Momins , Aca●ous , Monbains , Indian-figs , Prickled-apples , Prickled-pears , Icacos , Cocos , Plantin● , Bonanos , Guavers , and Pine-apples , accounted the most delicious of Indian-fruits . The other most peculiar trees are the Locust-tree , the Mastick-tree , Redwood , the Prickled yellow-wood , the Iron-wood-tree , the Cassia Fistula , Coloquintida , Tamarinds , Cassa●y , the Poison-tree , the Phystick-nut , the Calibash , a sort of Gourd , the Mangrass-tree , of a large compass , the Roucon , of whose bark ropes are made , the Lignum vitae before-mentioned , and the Palm●to . The other Plants are but the same with what are common here : so likewise the Beasts , except Asinegos , and Birds , Some sorts of Fish there are peculiarly belonging to this and the rest of the Ca●ibbess , as Snappers , Terbums , Cavallos , Parrat-fish , Coney-fish , and Green Turtles , esteemed by many a very great delicacy . Likewise some kinds of Insects , as Musketoes , Cockroches , Merrywings , which sting much in the night : but the most remarkable is a very little Fly term'd Cayonyo● , whose wings cast such a sparkling light , that the Indians catching them , have been observed to make use of them in stead of candels , by tying them to their hands or feet . As small as this Island is , it is said to have been divided in former times into several petty Nations , who with their puny Kings used to go to War each against the other , selling the Prisoners they took , to the Europeans that came thither to traffick . Their habitation is thought to have been chiefly in Caves , of which there are several in this Island , both very deep , and large enough to hold each of them 500 men : they are now become the refuges and sculking-places of the Negro-slaves that run away . The most usual drinks of the Countrey are Mobby , which is an infusion of Potatoes in water , as Planti● of Plantins in water ; Perino of Casaru-root , Beveridhe , a drink made of Spring-water , juice of Oranges and Sugar ; also , Crippo , Kill-devil , and Punch : but above all , Wine of Pines , a most delicious drink doubtless , as made of so delicious a fruit . The whole Island is so taken up in Plantations , that there are no more vacancies of building than what the ground imployed requires , is divided into eleven Precincts or Parishes , containing in all 14 Churches and Chappels : four of these Parishes are very well built , and have the name and repute of noted Towns ; as , 1 , St. Michael , heretofore called Bridge-Town , or Indian-Bridge , having several fair Streets of handsome well-built Houses , though seated in a place somewhat low and moorish , and by consequence unhealthful , namely in the bottom of Caerlisle-Bay , in the Southern part of the Island , a very large Bay , and capable of giving harbour to no less than 500 Ship at a time , secured with two strong Forts opposite to each other , with a Platform in the midst well mounted with great Guns , and commanding the Road. The chief of these ●orts called Charles-Fort , is seated on Nedhams Point : this Town being the principal Emporium of this Isle , is grac'd with the Courts of Iudicature , the residence of the Governor or his Deputy , the Store-hou●es of Merchants and Factors , whence the Inhabitants are furnished with forreign Commodities for those which are the product of the Isle , which they bring in exchange . 2 , Sprights-Bay , now Little Bristol , about four leagues from St. Michaels Southward ; it is a place of good Trade and concourse , well guarded by two strong Forts . 3 , St. Iames's , not far from Bristol ; it is a place of good Trade , fortified with a large Platform , and Brestworks , and affording a safe Harbour ●ot Ships : here are kept the monthly Courts for this Precinct . 4 , Charles Town , seated on Oyster-Bay , two leagues from St. Mich●el Northward , and guarded by two strong Fo●ts , the one on the North-side , the other on the South-side of the Town , with a Platform in the midst . In this Town are kept weekly Markets , and the monthly Courts for the Precinct : also along the Sea-coast are these places of note , viz. Maxwels-Bay , Austins-Bay , Fowl-Bay , the Hole , Spikes-Bay , Black-Rock , Balises-Bay , Long-Bay , Clarkes-Bay , and Constance-Bay . The water which supplies this place is chiefly in Pools and Ponds , besides Wells and Cisterns belonging to most houses for the rece●t of rain-water : but of Rivers there are only reckoned two , if the first be not rather to be accounted a Lake , since it runs but a very little way into the Land : the other they call the River Tuigh , on the surface of whose waters there swims an Oil , which being gathered thence , is usually burnt in Lamps . The Estate of a Master Planter here consists chiefly in servants and Negro-slaves ; and of these three Classes or Orders the whole Islands consists : the Masters live not only in all manner of plenty and delight : for besides Beef , Mutton , Pork , Kid , Pease , Beans , and excellent Roots , they have all variety of Fish and Fowl , and plenty of Wine , Strong-waters , and English Beer and Ale ; but also in full stretching ease , having their Overseers to manage their business for them , who calls the Servants and Slaves to their work , by ringing of a Bell at six a clock in the morning , and one after dinner , and dismisses them at eleven at noon , and six at night , orders them their several tasks , and corrects them for all misorders and neglect of their duties . The Servants have this advantage of the Slaves , that their servitude lasts but for five years ; which time being expir'd , they either acquire Plantations of their own , or have good allowances for working under the chief Planters . The Negroes on the other side , who are bought like beasts in a Fair , are kept in perpetual bondage , they and their children ; and therefore though the Christian Servants are also bought , yet double the price is given for the Negroes , viz. twenty pound a piece for the men , fifteen for the women . The diet , clothing and lodging is very hard both for servants and slaves ; but the servants have a double allowance of clothes , and their accommodation of lodging much better : Sunday , which is allowed as a day of respit from the Masters labour , the most ingenious spend in some kind of manufacture for their own benefit ; others in wrestling , dancing , and such like recreations . For the better administration of Government , and putting in execution the Laws of this Countrey , which , if not the same , have a very near correspondence with ours in England , excepting some that are peculiar to the place . The Island is divided into four circuits , in each of which there is a Court of Iudicature for civil Causes , from whence appeals may be made to the Supreme Court , which Supreme Court is in the nature of our Parliament , both as having a Legislative Power , and consisting of three Estates , namely , the Governor or his Deputy , ten of his Counsel , which are in stead of our House of Peers ; and the Burgesses elected by the Free-men , two out of each Parish . For the execution of Iustice here are held five Sessions yearly . The present Governor is the Right Honourable , William Lord Willoughby of Parham . The Description of Florida . FLorida , a pleasant and spacious Countrey , was so called by the Spaniards , whereas the ancient name was Irquassa , because to Iuan Ponce de Leon , the first of that Nation that steered his course toward this Coast , it gave landing in 1512 on Palm-Sunday , which they call Pascha de Flores , or Florida Pascha : though it had been formerly discovered , viz. Ann. 1497. by S●bastion Cabot , by the encouragement of K. Henry the 7th . of England . Ponce , by reason of the resistance of the Natives , being soon forc'd to quit the place ; and dying not long after of a wound he received in one of his encounters , not many years after Lucas Vasques de Aylon arriving with two Ships , was courteously entertained by a King of the Countrey , and well he requited him ; for at his departure he treacherously hoisted Sail with divers of the Indians , whom he carried with him captives , to work in the Mines at Hispaniola , but it thrived with him accordingly , when having obtained the Government of Florida , he was beaten out with the loss of one Ship , and about 200 of his men ; this notwithstanding discouraged not Pamphilus Nervaes from making another attempt , who after many strange adventures , losses and hazards , at length lost himself , it being never known what became of him ; and of 80 that accompanied him , but 4 escap'd to return home alive . Much more remarkable and puissant , and more destructive to the poor Indians , of whom many thousands were slaughtered , was the expedition of Ferdinando Soto , Ann. 1534. who nevertheless , after many losses , died therein , and his successor Ludovico de Alvarado was forc'd to an hasty retreat , in which he lost half his Army ; upon hopes therefore of better success , in the two following expeditions of the Spaniards , Religion was thought fit to be joyned with political interest , and first with Pietro Albumada were sent five Dominicans , who from the jealous Indians , not understanding they were design'd Converts to the Christian Faith , meeting only with such usage as made them pass for Mar●yrs ; three Iesuits next , Petrus Martinius , Ioannes Rogerus , and Franciscus Villaregius went with Pietro Menendez , whom such a storm encountred in the very landing , that the Ship being driven to Cuba , those that were left on Shore perish'd with hunger . However , of so many landings as had at several times been made by the Spaniards , some footing , notwithstanding all misfortunes , could not but be made in the place . Enough it seems to disturb the following approaches of the French , of whom Iean Ri●ald , and Rene Laudoniere being the first that discovered those Coasts , had at several efforts their men totally cut off by the Spaniards , yet at last they were met with by Dominic de Gourgues a Gascoigner , who in the year 1567 , in revenge of his Countrey-men , of whom divers were hang'd , and especially of the death of Ribaut , who is said to have been flead alive , ventur'd of his own accord to make thither with three Ships well mann'd with Souldiers and Sea-men , and with the help of divers Casicks of the Countrey ingaged to his Party by Pierre du Bre , the only French-man that escaping the Massacre of the Spaniards in Laudonieres attempt , was left alive in the place , took from them Fort Carolina , and two other Forts , hanged divers Spaniards on the same trees whereon they had hung the French , and return'd with honour , though not without sufficient trouble to clear himself of the boldness of such an uncommissioned exploit . After this , we hear not of any other adventures of the French in this part of America : however there fell not long after a terrible storm upon the Spaniards here from the English , under Captain Drake , who An. 1585. returning from the sacking of Domingo and Carthagena , and as he sail'd along that Coast , having intelligence of the state of the Spaniards , and firing his great Guns against the Fort St. Iohn , forc'd them to quit both that and the City St. Augustine , which finding totally deserted , he entred , and seizing on a Chest of 2000 l. and 14 Brass-Guns , he return'd to his Ships , and contented with his prize , hoisted Sail. Since which they have met with little or no disturbance , but remained quiet in those Colonies they possess : besides which , there hath been found space enough of the Countrey for the parcelling out into a peculiar Province , which hath been done of late years by his present Majesty , and granted by Patent to several Noble and Honourable persons of his Subjects , by the name of Carolina , as is mentioned more at large in the peculiar description thereof . This Countrey of Florida lying South-west of of Virginia , extends from the 30 ( some say the 25 ) to the 50 degree of Northern Latitude , if we consider the extent , as it was before 〈◊〉 was taken out of it ) and is bounded South and South-west with the Gulph of M●xico , and M●● Virginium , full West with part of New Gallicia , and other Countreys not yet thoroughly discovered , North-East with Virginia , or rather with Carolina , which being now separated 〈◊〉 a Province by it self , lies between Florida and Virginia . The temperature of the Air of this Countrey is such , that Carolina , which having been accounted a part of it , cannot be thought to differ much in constitution of Climate , is generally reputed not only one of the best Colonies the English possess , but for health , pleasure and profit , comparable to ( if not transcending ) any part of America beside . The richness of the 〈◊〉 meeting with such a temperature of Air , as hath been observ'd , must needs produce very delicious fruits , as well of those kinds that are frequent with us , as Apples , Pears Plums , Cherri●s , Apricocks , Peaches , Grapes , &c. as those peculiar to the Countrey ; of which , I find the 〈◊〉 most especially taken notice of . The ancient Inhabitants of Florida are of an Olive colour , of a full stature , and well proportioned , with long black hair reaching down below their wasts , which are tied about with the skins of hunted Beasts , adorn'd with divers coloured feathers hanging down to their knees , else naked , only having their bare arms , back , brest and legs exquisitely painted : their women most especially are esteemed very handsome , and of an excellent shape , which by their going so naked , appears to the greater advantage . They are crafty , ingen●ous , exquisite dissemblers , revengeful , and frequent in warlike consultations held in the Kings Palace , where he himself sits Arbiter and directer : Their warlike Arms are chiefly Bow and Arrows , which pointed with fish-bones , they carry in quivers by their side . They have a gross belief of the souls immortality , but the Ceremonies of their Religion are bruitishly barbarous and bloody ; their victories , horrid cruelty to prisoners , and burial of their dead , attended with many strange and extravagant fancies and conceits . There are by some named several Provinces , into which this Countrey hath been formerly divided , viz. Panuca , bordering upon New Spain , Aranaris , Albardaosia , whose Natives are peculiarly noted for their sub●ilty , Irquasia , inhabited by a people exceeding all others in swiftness of foot , and Alpachia , Authia , and Someria ▪ remarkable for expert swimmers , even to the very women , who make nothing to cross over wide Rivers with children in their arms : it is said to abound also with Hermophradites , who are made use of as drudges to follow the Camp , and carry the luggage of the Army . Colas , bordering upon Cape Florida : Tegista , or Florida , properly so called , which stretcheth our North and South 100 leagues in length , into a long Peninsula toward the Isle Cuba , by the Cape Los Martyres , Acuera , Vitacu●●us , &c. But the more common division of the Floridans is into their several Tribes , as the Quitones , the Susolas , the Maticones , the Avavares , the Camoni , the Canagadi , the Marianes , and the Quevenes , of each of which the supreme Head or Prince is called the Paraousti . This Countrey of Florida is well watered with many large and convenient Rivers ; of which the only mentioned in any noted Writer of these parts , are these , 1 , Rio Grande . 2 , Rio Secco . 3 , Rio de Nieves . 4 , Rio de Spiritu Santo . 5 , Serravahi . 6 , Garuna . 7 , Ligeri● . 8 , Sequana . 9 , Axona . 10 , Charente , all which fall into the great Lake of Mexico . 11 , Maio , so called by Ribault , from the Month in which he discovered it , if it be not one of those already mentioned under another name . The principal Towns of Florida , whereof some built by the Spaniards ( and one by the French ) others by the ancient Inhabitants , are , 1 , St. Helens , situate on or near a Promontory or point so called , on the utmost Frontier of the Country toward Virginia . 2 , Arx Carolina , or Fort Charles , built by Laudonier on the banks of the River Majo , and by him so called , in honour of King Charles the 9th . of France , in whose time the Conquest of Florida was undertaken by the French : but this place was not long after taken from them by the Spaniard , and very much ruinated . 3 , Port Royal , a place inhabited for the sake of the Haven only , which for the commodiousness of it , is very much frequented . 4 , St. Matthews , one of the principal sortifications of the Spaniards , lying on the Eastern Coast of Tergesta of Florida , properly so called . 5 , St. Augustines , another of their ancient sortified places on the same Shore , only somewhat more Southernly : This Town , as above mentioned , was in the year 1585 taken and sack'd by Sir Francis Drake . 6 , Vitacuche , once the chief Seat of the Province or petty Kingdom of Vitacuche ; though n● better indeed than an indifferent Village , consisting but of 200 houses , or rather cottages , however thought worthy to be taken by the Natives from the Spaniards : As also ; 7 , Ocalis , the Metropolitan Village of Acuera , of so much the more note , by how much the larger than the other . 8 , Osachite , another Provincial Town of the Floridans . 9 , Apatache , an ancient Native-built Town , probably once of some note and resort , at least taken by the Spaniards for such , which made them the more eager to take it under the conduct of Pamphilus Narvaes , in hopes of finding there great riches . Doubtless it was then a place much larger , and more considerable , than to consist but of 40 or 50 houses or cottages , ( as hath been by some delivered ) since it was capable of making so smart a resistance as it did when it was attack'd , and of repelling them after the departure of Nervaes . 10 , Ante , another ancient Town or Village of the Floridans , chiefly remarkable for a sharp Ingagement between them and the Spaniards , whom at this place , though said to be nine days march from Apatache , they overtook , and forc'd to retreat , not without the loss of very many of their men , some of note . 11 , St. Philip. 12 , St ▪ Iago , both heretofore fortified by the Spaniards , if not still possessed by them . CAROLINA map of Carolina The Description of Carolina . CAROLINA having been formerly accounted a part of Florida , though of late separated into a peculiar Province , little or nothing is to be said more of the discovery , situation , climate , temperature , soil , commodities , nature and customs of the natives , than what hath been already mentioned in Florida it self ; of which we have been the more particular ; in regard this part of it which is called Carolina , from his present Majesty King Charles the Second , and which makes up a considerable Province , belongs now to the English : it being not so proper to attribute those things to a part only , which are applicable to the whole ; it remains only therefore to speak of the present interest and propriety : when , upon what occasion , and to whom the Patent was granted ; and if there be any thing else peculiar to this Province above the rest of Florida . It was by the care , charge , and industrious endeavours of divers noble persons , as Edward Earl of Clarendon , ●ord Chancellor of England ; George Duke of Albemarl ; William Earl of Craven ; Iohn Lord Berkly ; Anthony Lord Ashly , now Earl of Shaftsbury ; Sir George Carteret , Vice-Chamberlain of his Majesties Houshold ; Sir William Berkly Knight and Baronet ; Sir Iohn Colleton Knight and Baronet ; that this Province of Carolin● , as the best part of all Florida , was impropriated into the interest and possession of the English ; ( to whom indeed of right the whole Countrey may be accounted properly to belong ; both in regard it was discovered by Sir Sebastian Cabott , by the encouragement , and for the use of King Henry the seventh of England ; and for its neighbouring situation to our other Plantations , besides several other conveniences . ) by setling therein two considerable Plantations ; the one at Albemarl-Point , which lying to the North , borders upon Virginia ; and whither very many Families have transplanted themselves from New-England , and other of our American Plantations : the other at Charles-Town , or Ashly River , almost in the center of the Countrey : which being the better Plantation of the two , may in all likelihood invite a far greater , as well from New-England and other parts that way , as from Barbadoes and Bermudas many have already removed their effects hither . The most apparent boundary between Carolina and Virginia appears plainly by Mr. Ledderers Map , who hath written a very exact description of his travels into these parts , to be the R●ver Rorenock , alias Shawan ; that is to say , the main River for above half the way ; and afterwards , a smaller branch running on Northward towards the Hills as far as Sapon , in the Countrey of the Nabissans ; the rest of the main stream running farther into the heart of the Countrey , which from this boundary stretcheth a long way North-west . This Sapon is the first Town within the limits of Carolina , and situate as it were upon the utmost point of the said branch of the River Rorenock ; whereby , though it stand dry upon an high ground , yet it is environed with a fruitful and productive Soil . Nor far from it is a place called Pint●h● , a stately and pleasant Seat , the Royal Mansion of the King of the Nahissans , who is an absolute Monarch . About fifty miles from Sapon is Ak●●atzy , a small , but well-peopled Island , lying upon the direct course of the River , and bearing South and by West : governed by two Kings ; the one Superintendent over their Martial affairs ; the other over their Hun●ing and Husbandry . Thirty miles farther , South-west from Akenatzy , are the O●nock Indians , dwelling in a Town built round a Field , in which they usually practice their sports and exercises of activity . Their Houses are built some of Reed and Bark , some of Watling and Plaister . Their Government is Democratical . Fourteen miles South-west of the Oenocks dwell the Shackory Indians , whose Countrey abounds in Antimony : Forty miles farther South-west is Watary . Thirty miles farther Westward is Sara , lying more towards that ridge of the Apalat●an Mountains ; by the Spaniards called Suala , where great quantities of Cinabar are found . South-west from thence is Wisacky , over a continued marish ground overgrown with reeds : this Town is subject to the King of Ushery ; on which also this King hath his Royal Seat about three miles from the Town : and this is the utmost Town South-west that I find mentioned , belonging to Carolina . To the North , over the Suala Mountains , lie the Rickockans . but back again , North-east , returning on the other side of the River toward Virginia , is the Town of Katearas , a place of notable Trade , and the Seat of the proud Emperor of the Toskiroros , called Kascusara , or Kascous . There are also the Towns of Kasriocam and Mencherink ; which , though on the Virginian side of the River Rorenock , yet are accounted rather belonging to Carolina . The Countrey , as it is now in possession of the English , is divided and governed according to a platform and model drawn up by my Lord Shaftsbury , with the consent and approbation of the rest of the Lords Proprietors , judged by many serious persons that have perused it , of equal advantage to the Inhabitants , with any that ever hath been yet experienced , in respect of the equal ballance of the interests of all parties . The whole Province is divided into several Counties , each containing forty square plats of 12000 acres a piece : of these square plats , eight are to be divided among the Lords Proprietors , that is , each to have one , with the title of a Signory ; eight more among the Nobility , of which there are to be three in every County , a Landgrave , and two Cassiques ; only the Landgrave to have double the proportion to the two Cassiques ; that is , four to their two a piece ; the rest containing 24 acres , falls to the people : and this division is to be observed alike in every County ; by which means one fifth of the Land comes to the Proprietors , another to the Nobility , and three to the People . The Signories or Lands belonging to the Proprietors are to be hereditary , and descend with the Dignity to their Heirs , and in like manner the Baronies . The Parliament which is to be Biennial , is to consist of the Proprietors , the Nobility ; and for the people , one chosen out of every District by the Freeholders ; which representatives are to have a free Vote in the making of Laws ; the force whereof is determined to set a time , viz. sixty years , or thereabouts , to prevent the incumbrances and mischiefs arising from the multiplicity of rules and penalties , which the longer a Law continues , are liable to be increased and perplexed by the cunning of such as make a gain by the practice of the Law. Besides the Parliament which hath the Legislative Power , there are e●ght supreme Courts for the dispatch of all publick affairs . The first is that of the Palatine ; for so the eldest of the Proprietors is stil'd , who hath power to call Parliaments , and dispose of publick affairs . The second is the Chief Iustices , for the judging of Criminals , and trial of Causes about Right and Propriety . The third is the Chancellor's Court , which is for the passing of Charters , and managing the grand affairs belonging to the Province . The fourth is the High-Constabl●s , which is for the ordering of the Land-Militia . The fif●h is the Admirals , for the disposing of the Naval-Forces , and other Maritime affairs . The sixth is the High Stewards , which inspects into the business of Trade . The seventh is the Treasurers , which looks after the incomes and disbursements of the publick Stock or Treasury . The eighth is the Chamberlain's , which marshals and orders the ceremonies and fashions in all great Marriages , Burials , and publick Solemnities . All these Courts ( each of which consists of one Proprietor , and six Counsellors ; whereof two are chosen by the Nobility , and two by the People , ) joyned together make up the Council of State , or Grand Council , by which all affairs of highest concernment are managed ; and to which the last appeal lies in all Causes belonging to them . There is also a Court in every County , and in every District another : in each of which , to prevent long Suits , whereby the people suffer , only to enrich a numerous Tribe of glib-tongu'd Orators , no Cause is tried above once ; only an appeal to be made from an inferior to a superior Court , till it come to the Proprietors Court , where the last determination is made without farther appeal : neither indeed are there any mercenary Pleaders allowed . And farther , to prevent the occasion of Controversies , and S●●●s in Law ; there is to be a Register of all Grants and Conveyances of Land. Lastly , to prevent all disturbance and annoyance to publick or private weal and safety , strict enquiry is to be made into the conversations of such as shall be found to have neither estates not employments ; such provision being to be made as shall take away all excuses of following illegal courses : nor are any to be suffered to make a Trade of begging , who have ability of body , and are obliged by necessity to work : since it is apparent that idle●ess and beggery are the source of all those villanies , which by the hand of Iustice bring so many to untimely ends , whose lives might otherwise haply have one way or other conduced to the service of their King or Countrey ; and that it must needs be much more advantagious to the publick to prevent the necessity of inflicting capital punishments , than to inflict them when deserved . As to the Government in point of Religious affairs , there is only this to be observed ; that a free toleration and liberty of Conscience is granted to all , excepting in the case of Atheism , Profaneness , and debauchery of life , as destructive to all Government and humane Society : whereas ceremonies and indifferent circumstances in Religion are judged to tend most to disturbance , when most strictly and rigorously imposed . A Map of EAST INDIA map of East India The Description of India . INDIA , by the Ancients simply so denominated , but by the Moderns sirnamed Orientalis , for distinction sake ; in regard America , or the new found World , is usually stil'd India Occidentalis , or the West-Indies : is that Region of Asia , which under one appellation takes up the largest part thereof ; it being all that part which lies beyond the River Indus , now S●●do , and bounded Eastward with part of China , and the Indian Ocean ; Southward wholly with the Indian or Oriental Ocean ; Westward with Persia ; and Northward with that part of Mount Taurus which divides it from Tartary . This Countrey , as it was by the Ancients , so is still primarily distinguished into India intra Gangem , and India extra Gangem : the first is vulgarly term'd Indostan , the other Mangi ; under which some doubt not to comprehend China it self , already described . It extends from the nequator to the 44th degree of Northern latitude , which makes the longest day 15 hours , and ½ ; as in terrestrial length it reacheth from the Fountains of the River In●us to the utmost Promontory of the Golden Chersonese , six hundred German miles . So that the temperature of the Air must needs be very diverse under so large an extent ; lying partly under the torrid , partly under the temperate Zone . Many vast and barren Desarts there are ; but generally the Soil is fruitful , and the Countrey abounding with things convenient for life : and in some parts are produc'd most delicious fruits , especially the Palm , of which the people of those parts make Wine more frequently than of the Grape : and for Gums , Spices , and all sorts of rich Drugs , it surpasseth all other Countreys : but that which is the chief glory of the East-Indies , is , that the rest of the World receives lustre from the Diamonds , Rubies , and other precious Gems that are brought from thence . So that it so far out-shineth the opposite or Occidental Indies , by how much these Gems exceed in value Gold it self ; besides the great Trade that is driven in many places in Silks , and other curious Stuffs , and rich Commodities ; whereupon they are much frequented , and resorted to by Strangers from all parts of the World. The Indian people are generally of a complexion somewhat tawny , tall of stature , and strong of constitution , healthful , and for the most part long-liv'd , even many times to the age of 130 years , notwithstanding their addiction , above all other people in the World , to luxury and venereal exercises . It is permitted them to marry every man as many Wives as he can maintain ; whereof , nevertheless , one of them hath a more peculiar respect , and observance , and a predominance over the rest ; for which she pays dear enough , if she survive her Husband ; for at his death she is obliged to throw her self into the same Funeral Pyre with him . They are simple-hearted , and vold of all fraud and deceit in their bargains and contracts , and not given to any quirks or cavils in the Law ; and scarcely is there any such thing as the every known among them : so that their houses have little or no need of the guards of locks and bolts , so usual and necessary among us . The lowermost rank of people go very ill-habited , or rather almost stark naked , except their head , feet , and what decency requires to have hid : but those of Quality , Birth or Estate , go richly clad in Silks , fine Linnen , or other the most costly attire ; and spare for no adornments of Pearl , and the most precious of Gems ; and they stand very much upon the honour of their Birth and Family , observing a suitable grandure in their garb and retinue , admitting not of any mixture of affinity with those of mean degree . The strength of the Indian Militia consists in their Nairi , who are a select number of the Nobility , and better sort of Citizens ; who from seven years of age are train'd up in all manner of bodily exercises ; by which , and by a continual inunction and suppling of their nerves , joynts and bones with oil of Sesamum , they attain in time to an incredible dexterity and agility of body . The chief Ministers and Dispencers of the Rites and Ceremonies of their Religion , or rather Idolatry , are said to be of the stock of those ancient Brachmanes , who doubtless were the same with the Gymnosophists , so term'd by the Greeks , among whom they had a very great fame ; being mentioned for their Learning and Philosophy by divers , both Greek and Latin Writers ; and reckoned in the same rank of honour and esteem as the Magi among the Persians , and the Druids among the Gauls and Britains . The great Mountain Taurus , which for extent is doubtless the biggest in the World ; stretcheth in a continued ridge through the whole length of Asia , only under several names , as Imaus , Emodus , Caucasus , Parapomisus , &c. This Mountain Taurus is judged to be the same with that Mount Ararat mentioned in holy Scripture , upon which the Ark of Noah rested after the Flood . Of the Rivers of India Oriental , Indus and Ganges are the chiefest , and most famous ; and of the number of the most principal and largest of all Asia . Indus , which gives denomination to the Countrey , and is now vulgarly called Hiind , Duil , Inder , Caercede , and by some Pengah , taking its rise in Parapomisus , or Naugrocot , a branch of the Mountain Taurus , falls after 900 miles course Northward , with seven mouths into the Indian Ocean , having taken in by the way 19 navigable Rivers ; the chief whereof are Hydaspes , and Hypasis , which terminated Alexander the Great 's expedition . This River , where broadest , is accounted 50 furlongs broad ; where deepest , 15 paces deep . Ganges , now Guencam , from her uncertain original ( some say the Mountain Ima●s ) falls into the Ocean ; having , according to the testimony of Pliny , taken in by the way 30 Navigable Rivers . This River , where narrowest , is accounted two German miles broad ; where shallowest , 100 foot deep . It is moreover famous for the 460 Channels , cut like so many wounds out of its sides , by Cyrus King of Persia , in revenge for the drowning of an Horse , upon which he set a very great value . The Empire of the Great Mogul is so promiscuously spread throughout that part of India which lies within Ganges , that there are reckoned up no less than 37 Provinces or Kingdoms under his Dominion . But because his Dominion doth not exactly comprehend all Indostan , or Interior India : others have chosen rather to divide it into those several Regions which have been adjudged the proper contents or comprehensions of it . In most of which , however , the Mogul hath the greatest share , if not the intire Iurisdiction of them , namely these 14 following ; 1 , Dulcinda , in which the chief Cities and places of note are Caximir , Roree , Sestan , and Multan . 2 , Pengah , supposed the ancient Kingdom of Porus , conquered by Alexander the Great . The first Ci●y of this Province is La●or , once the Royal Seat of the Mogul . Other places of note are Sultan-Puare , Athe● , and ( if we reckon , as some do , the Kingdoms of Haiacan and Buchor under this division , ) Buchor and Suchor . 3 , Mandao , the warlike temper of whose women-Inhabitants hath made them pass for a race of the Amazons . The Head-City of this Province is of the same name , remarkable both for its 30 miles circuit , and for the great Battel between Baldurius King of Cambay , and Mirumudius or Merhamed , the Great Mogul . The others of most note are Moltan , Sche●●us , for anti●uity , Polymbothy , the Palibothra of Ptolemy . 4 , Delly , so nam'd from its Mother City , sometimes the Seat of the Great Moguls , where many of them had their Sepulchral Monuments : many other great Towns and Cities there are in this Province ; among which Tremer is particularly culiarly mentioned ; and also Doceti , made the more remarkable by the great overthrow given by Merhamed to Badurius . 5 , Agra , whose Supreme City , of the same name , is the present Imperial Seat , and ordinary residence of the Great Mogul , ever since the time of Ec●ar ; it stands on the Eastern-bank of the River Iem●na , and not above 18 miles ( the way being stag'd with Mahometan Temples ) from Fatepore , once a stately City ; to which Echebar removed his Court from Caximir , and built him here a Royal Palace , with sumptuous Gardens ; but much demolished since the removal of the Imperial Seat to Agra , whither the materials of the said Palace were conveyed . Hendee , adorned with a Regal Castle , which serves for a Prison of State , hewn out of the main Rock : as also two Hospitals for maimed Commanders . Biani , the most peculiar place in all East-India for the manufacture of Indico , all the way between Lahor and Agra , which is reckoned 400 miles , is set with rows of Mulberry , and other fair trees on each side the way : and at every ten miles end fair houses for the entertainment of Travellers . Within this Terrritory is included the Kingdom of Gualiar , with its grand City of the same name , where the Mogul hath a rich Treasury of Gold and Silver , and a strong Castle for Prisoners . 6 , Sanga , once a Kingdom , whose Regal City Citor , of 12 miles circuit , and seated on a Rocky Hill with a narrow access , shews the ruines of 100 Temples ; since its being taken first from Queen Crementina , by Badurius King of Cambaia ; afterwards from him by the Great Mogul . 180 miles from Agra is Azimere , remarkable for the Pillars erected by Echebar between that and Agra ; one at the end of every mile and half , and at 15 miles end a Caravansera , or Inn for Travellers . Into this division is reckoned the Kingdom of Nagracut , with its Metropolis of the same name , in which is a Chappel seel'd and pav'd with Plates , and adorn'd with figures of massy Silver . 7 , Cambaia , divided into 3 Provinces , Sinda , Gusarate & Cambaia , properly so called . Of Sinda , a great part whereof is a wast sandy Desart● the chief Towns or Citi 's are Tutta , a Town well Traded by the Portugheses ; Lauribander , supposed very near , if not in the same place , with that ancient A●exandria . Calwalla , given by Echebar for the maintenance of a race of Women-dancers . Radempoor , a large City at the entrance of the Desart , fortified with a strong Castle . Nuraquemire , a grateful retreat for such as have past a wearisome journey of ten daies through the Desart , at the farthest end whereof it is seated . Sarrama , the center of the Province to which it belongs , as it is usually accounted . Of Guasarate , ( whose ancient Inhabitan●s , are the R●sboochs , yet unsubdued by the Mogul . ) Diu , a Town of great importance to the Portugh●ses , by whom it hath been long possest , and so well fortified , that it held out , and baffleda strong Siege laid against it by the Admiral of the Great Turk , Solyman the Magnificent , in the year 1537. Sauran , a Town of the forementioned Resboochs , which fortified with a strong Castle , defies the whole power of the Mogul . Boldra , a Town more neat and handsome than large . Amadabat , accounted by some the chief City of Gusarate . S●rk●ff , adorned with the Sepulchres of the ancient Cambaian Kings , Ardovat , Saringo , and Periano . Of Cambaia , properly so called , the Metropolitan City of the same name ; for its populousness term'd the Caire of the Indies . Baracho , where the best Calicuts are made . Swally , giving name to a very commodious Bay. Surat , a pleasant , well-built , and well-fortified City ; and at present a very eminent Factory of English Merchants . Neriand , a Town of all the East-Indies , second only to that of Biani for the manufacture of Indico's . Daman , a neat and well-fortified Town in possession of the Portugheses . Campanel , once the usual R●sidence of the Cambaian Kings , being encompassed with a seven-fold wall , and seated on the top of an high Hill. Dacaiotote , a place whose strength rendred it capable to capitulate with the Mogul for a King or Governor of their own . Netherby , a Town trading in A●mory and brasen Ware. Tanai and Bandore . 8 , Decan , having a City of the same name , whose Inhabitants are very wealthy , though Bider was rather made choice of for the Royal Residence ; at least it was the Seat of Mamut●a , as Danager of Ni●almoxa , and Visapore of Idalcan . Goa , the most flourishing Emporium of the Portugheses in the East-Indies , and therefore the Seat of their Vice-Roy , and an Arch-Bishops See : and so impregnably fortified , that Idalcan attempted in vain with all his force to take it , in the year 1573. Chaul , a Sea-port Town , in possession also of the Portugheses ; by them no less strongly fortified , and no less vainly assaulted by Nisamolocco , another King of Decan . Brampore , once the Royal Seat of Chanlis , taken from Miram , the then King , by the Mogul , in the year 1600. Sintacora and Balagnate , the native people of this Countrey were formerly called Venazarari , who still hold out in some parts against the Mogul , as the Resboochs in Cambaia . 9 , Canara , ancient accounted a part of Decan , but now almost wholly in the power of the Kings of Narsinga , except what the Portugals possess of it . The now most flourishing Towns belonging to it are Me●inde , Onor , Sea-Port Towns : Baticalia , Mayendre , Mongalor , recovered from the Portugals by the King of Narsinga . Lispor , chiefly remarkable for the Quarries of Adamant near it . Salsette , seated in a Peninsula under the subjection of the Portugals . 10 , Malabar , divided into 7 Provinces , some whereof are Kingdoms , viz. Calecut , Granganor , Cochin , Caicolam , Coulan and Travancor . The most memorable Towns or Cities of Calecut are the Metropolitan , from whence it takes denomination ; and whence that sort of linnen-Cloath , which had here its first manufacture , is called Calicut . Of Cranganor , there is only of note one City of the same name , in which are said to be no less than 70000 Christlans , of the race of those converted by Sr. Thomas : Of Cochin Angamale , an Archiepiscopal See of these Thomasian Christians ; and Cochin , an Episcopal See. Of Caicolam , one only of remark giving name to the Province . Of Coulam , the like accounted by some the Soveraign City of all Malaba● , and once the peculiar Residence of the Cob●itin , or Arch-Priest of the Bramines . Of Travancor , the denominating City ; and Quilacare , which a petty King of Travancor holds of the King of Narsinga by a most bloody tenure ; being obliged at 12 years end to sacrifice himself in a horrid manner to a filthy Idol . 11 , Narfinga , or Bisnagar , in which are many Cities worth notice ; as Cael , whose Inhabitants , the Paravi , a sort of Christians ▪ live by Pearl-fishing . Chamdagrir , sometimes honoured with the Residence of the Narsingan Kings . Prepeti , where an annual Feast is celebrated to their Saint Pereimar , once sole King of Malabar . Golconda , peculiar to Musulipatan , a little Province subject to the Crown of Narsinga : Madura , Gingi , and Tanajor , the Seat of the Naigi , or Tributary Roytelets to the King of Narsinga . M●liapur , called by the Christians St. Thomas , from a supposition that this Apostle , martyred by the Idolaters , was here interred : it is said to have had once 330 Temples . Cheromandel , whence all that Sea-coast which lies on the West-side of the Gulf of Bengala is denominated . Negapatan , said to be chiefly inhabited by Thomasians . Tarnassart , once the Royal Seat of a Kingdom so nam'd . Casta , remarkable for the kind custom of women there , who accompanying their dead Husbands into the Grave , are buried with them alive . Bisnagar , ruined by the joynt Forces of four Decan Kings ; whereupon the Court was removed first to Ponegardo ; thence , after a short time , to the City of Narsinga ; where yet for the most part it remains . 12 , Oristan , whose eminent Towns or Cities are , besides that which gives name and credit to the Countrey . Catech ● , once the Seat of the Kings of this Countrey , till vanquished by the Mogul . Bacolli , peculiar to a little Kingdom so called : Angeli , Simergan , and Senerpase . 13 , Bofanter , containing divers petty Kingdoms , as Botia , Kacares , Conche , Gouren , Rame , Recon , Tippura , all denominated from their predominating Cities . 14 , Patanau , of which Patane is the mother City : the rest are Banaras , seated upon the River Ganges , frequented by those whose supe●stition leads them to bath in that reputed holy stream . Siripur , and Ciandecan , the Seat of two old Princes not yet subdued by the Mogul . Sagtagam , reckoned of late too . 15 , Bengala , taking name , together with a famous Gulf , from a City of great Trade , seated on the Ganges , whose holy waters enrich it also with a concourse of Pilgrims . The rest are Gonro , anciently the Seat of the Bengalan Kings . Caligan , a place once of Traffick , as seated on the Gulf Taxda , till the diversion of the Channel . Porto Grande , and Porto Pequeno , two Towns built by the Portugheses , adjoyning to the North of Bengala ; and therefore accounted part of it the City and Kingdom of Arachan . India extra Gangem , contains several Territories which are either large Kingdoms of themselves , or are divided into divers lesser Kingdoms : the first are six , namely , 1 , Brama or B●rma . 2 , Cauchin-China . 3 , Camboia . 4 , Iangoma . 5. Siam . 6 , Pegu. 1 , Brama is subdivided into these following lesser Kingdoms , viz. Cavilan or Calum Prom , Melinta , Miranda , Bacan , Tangu , ●va and Brama , peculiarly so called ; all taking ●his appellation from their grand Cities , and inhabited by the Brames or Bramines . 2 , Cauchin-China , with its principal City of the same name : it is divided into three Provinces , each governed by his particular petty King , but all under one Head , and he tributary to the King of China . 3 , Camboia , with its Capital City of the same name ; divided also into two inferior Provinces , Champa and Camboia , properly so called . 4 , Iangoma , or the Countrey of the Laos , divided into three Provinces , Lavea , Curroy , and Iangoma , strictly so called . 5 , Siam , a Peninsula , the same which of old was termed Aurea C●ersonesus , or the Golden Cher●onese ; and supposed by some to be Solomon's Land of Ophir , as the other tract of this part of India was called the Silver Region . This Peninsula comprehends within it the Kingdoms of Malaca , Patane , Ior , Muontay , and Siam , peculiarly so called . Malaca , denominated from its Emporium , or City of greatest Trade , belongs to the Portugheses ; who have also Sincapura and PaloZambilan . Patane , or as some say , Pathane , to distinguish it from that Patane already mentioned , taking name also from its chief City ; where , by the Queens leave , ( for it hath of late been governed by Queens ) the English and Hollanders have their several Factories , Muantay , whose chief City Odia may be well reputed the Metropolis of the whole Kingdom of Siam , being the Seat-Royal of the Siamese Kings : it is situate , like Venice , upon several little Islands tack'd together with Bridges in the River Capumo . Siam , specially so called ; whose Cities of chiefest note are Socotai , remarkable for a Temple 80 spans high , all intirely made of metal . Quedoa , a Town of great Trade for Pepper , of which the best sort is there to be had . Tavy , lying on the Sea-coast , and bordering on the Kingdom of Pegu. Lugor , near the Isthmus of the Chersonese . Calantan , peculiar to a petty Kingdom subordinate to the Crown of Siam . Pegu , divided into several lesser Kingdoms , Verma , Marin , Martavan , Orachan , and Pegu , peculiarly so called ; all denominated from their prevalent Cities : besides which , we find not in the three first any of remark ; but in Orachan there are also mentioned . Dianga , destroyed by the Portugheses , who took it Ann. 1608. In Pegu , Cosmi , built of Canes , of a vast circumference , in the midst of a wilderness . Coilan , a quadrangular City , whose four sides are said to consist of four miles a piece . Dala , chiefly memorable for the Stables of the Kings Elephants . Lanagen , delightfully seated among Palm-trees . Tocabel and Dian , both seated upon a River full of habitable Vessels , as big as Gallies . Meccao , a place of retreat for the King ▪ by reason of its strong Castle in time of imminent danger : but above all the Cities , Pegu it self exceeds in strength , pleasantness of situation , and sumptuousness of building . RUSSIA map of Russia The Description of Russia . RUSSIA , ( sirnamed Alba , to distinguish it from Russia Nigra , a Province of Poland , ) otherwise called also Moscovia , from its chief Province , is the greatest , or rather only Empire of all Europe , and one of the greatest of all the World ; extending from the 43 d to the 66th . degree of Northern latitude : the longest day in the most Southern parts 16 hours and an half , and in the most Northern 22 hours and an half ▪ the length in terrestrial measure is reckoned from the Promontory Litamin , vulgarly Cape Oby , to the Town Czercassy , 380 German miles ; the bredth , from Corelenburgh , a Town in the Confines of Finland , to the River Ob near Lopin , 300 German miles , each German mile being equivalent to four of ours ; all under the Dominion of one Prince , the Czar , or Emperor of Russia , otherwise stil'd the Great Duke of Moscovy . It is bounded on the North with the frozen Sea , on the East with Tartary , on the South with part of Livonia , a Province now belonging to the Kingdom of Poland ; and those Cremensian Tartars inhabiting the Southern Shores of Mar del Zabache , and the Euxin , or Black Sea ; on the West with certain Mountains , and the River Polne , which separates it from Livonia and Finland . This large Countrey is judged to have been the principal habitation of the ancient Sarmatae , or Sauromatae ; who yet , besides what belongs at present to the Great Czar , are concluded also to have possest all Borussia , Livonia , and Lithuania , and that part of Moldovia between the Rivers Ister , Tyra , and Hierasus . As to the temperature of the Air , it must needs be supposed , that in a Territory of so vast an extent , all parts cannot be alike , some being so very distant from others . In Moscow and the adjacent Provinces the Air is so sharp and p●ercing cold , that sometimes no Furr is able to protect the nose and ears of those that venture forth into the Air ; yet the earth being kept very warm with the snow , at the first approach of Spring , which is almost as soon as in Germany , the face of Heaven puts on a pleasant and most serene aspect ▪ and the earth a most lively verdure . In Winter they travel for the most part in Sledges ▪ which being low , and covered over with Canvas , and the Passengers wrapt warm in Sheepskins , they feel no cold , but travel as it were in moving Stoves ; and in Summer the heat is very near as intollerable as the cold in Winter . Among their Plants there is one peculiar sort which they call Boranez , from its form or shape resembling a Lamb ; upon a stalk , which seems to be its navel-string , as far as which stalk permits , it changes place , and makes the gr●ss wither as it turns about . This fruit is clothed with an hairy rind , which they say is dressed in stead of Furr : and Scaliger writes that no beast will feed on it but the Wolf ; whom to intrap , it is often set as a bait . Their Melons , of which there is plenty , are commended as singularly well-tasted , and of an extraordinary large size . The frequency of Wood and Forest furnishes this Countrey with store of Venijon , and all those kinds of beasts whose Furrs are in highest price ; besides one of a very peculiar kind , and proper to these parts , called the Reen , by the Modern Latins Rangifer , and thought to be the same with the Tarandius of the Ancients . With the skin of this beast the Samoides cloath themselves : it is in shape , and bigness , and horns , partl● like a Stagg , partly an ●lk , but with long , rough , and white hair ; a cloven foot , whose horn strikes so far into the ice , that it never slips : it is frequently made use of in the drawing of their Sleds upon any occasion of expedition , for it is reported to run 30 German leagues a day . Of Fish , none is here wanting but the Carp. Of Fowl , none but the Stork . The Moscovites are strong and active of body , of a middle stature , but square-set , and brawny arm'd ; of a natural ingenuity and subtilty , which they make use of to cheat with in their bargains and contracts ▪ being false , treacherous , and perfidious ; withal very lazy , and wholly unaddicted to Learning and Ar●s ; only necessity obliges them to follow Husbandry : they are malicious , quarrelsome , and scurrilous in company ; yet their choler seldom advances to farther violence than can be managed with the stick , fist , or foot which saves many a murther the Sword or Gun would be guilty of . They are generally lascivious , and beastly drinkers , both men and women , when occasion offers : for all their great Solemn●ies and Feastivals are so many drunken Bacchanals , in which they walow one among another like Swine : at other times , if they are sober , it is for want of what they love above all things , strong liquor ; for their ordinary drink is but a pitiful poor sort of tiff : and though the Countrey affords wherewith to fare delicately enough , yet the best of them scarce know how to feed elegantly , and the meaner sort eat like what they are , poor slaves , and lodge as ill , that is , like the wild Irish , or b●rbarous Indians : the whole Family , man , woman , and beast , lie higgledy-piggledy altogether in a room upon straw or mats , and in Summer-time upon benches or tables . And no wonder their manner of life is so animal and uncultivated , since they live subordinately in most wretched slavery ; the common People to the Nobles , the Nobles to the Czar : whose grand Maxim it is , as generally in Monarchies so very absolute , to proscribe Learning , well knowing that the necks of the ignorant most ●amely subject themselves to the yoke of tyranny . The Religion they profess is according to the Greek-Church , which they are said to have received from the Patriarch of Constantinople , Ann. 987 ; though in the Moscovi●ish Annals their first Conversion is boasted to have been from St. Andrew the Apostle : others say that Duke Wolodomirus received Baptism in the year 987 , upon his Marriage with Anna the Daughter of the Emperor Basilius : but the most received opinion is , that Leo coming out of Greece , and planting the Christian Faith among the Russians , became their first Patriarch , and fix'd his Seat at Kiovia ; whence , after some time , the Patriarchal Seat was removed to Volodimiria , and lastly to Mosco , where it continues . The Patriarch , who till about 100 years since , could not be confirmed but by the Patriarch of Con●tantinople ; but hath ever since been chosen and confirmed only by the Czar , or Great Duke , though with the consent of the generality of the Clergy , hath subservient to him two Metropolitans , or Arch-Bishops , the Arch-Bishop of Novogrode , and the Arch-Bishop of Rostow : and under these there are 18 Bishops , enjoying very large Revenues , and therefore the largest contributers to the Great Duke , when he hath occasion to raise an Army . Of the Rivers of this Countrey , the chief are the Dni●per , or Borysthenes of the ancients whose Fountain , though unknown to Herodotus , hath been since found to be near Dnieperko , a' Village of Moscovia , in the Wood Wolskonski ; and which flowing Southward by the Cities Smolensko and Kiovian , after having taken in many lesser Rivers , dischargeth it self at last into the Euxin , or Black Sea. 2 , Ducina , concluded to be the Turuntus of Ptolemy , which springing not far from the Fountains of Bory●thenes in the same Wood , and flowing by Riga , the Capital City of Livonia , falls at last into the Baltick Sea. 3 , Volga , the Rha of Ptolemy , and now called Edel , which springing from a Lake of the same name , being about 25 miles from Mosco , and flowing with a long course , and many windings after the taking in of many lesser streams , disburtheneth it self with no less than 70 mouths into the Caspian Sea , not far from the the City citracham . 4 , Don , or Tanais , by the Italians called Tuna , which dividing Europe from Asia , hath its source , as some are of opinion , from the Riphae●n Mountains in a certain Wood , out of a vast Lake not far from the City Tulla , and flowing with a long course beyond the Confines of Russia , Southward , makes the Lake M●otis . 5 , Occa , which springing out of the Province Mo●ceneck , which it semi-circles ; after a long course enters the Volga , , beneath Inferior Novogrod . The most noted Lakes are the Ilmen , or Ilmer , 12 German miles in length , and 8 in bredth . The Ladoga , whose length is 25 German miles , the bredth 15 , and containing divers Islands . The White Lake , called by the Inhabitants Bielcyesero , twelve miles in length , and as many in bredth ; and into which 360 Rivers ( small streams or rivulets doubtless ) are said to empty themselves : near this Lake is another , whose waters cast up a sulphureous scum . Of the Mountains of th●is Countrey , the only of note are those famous Amadoci , Riphaei , and Hyperbore● , so much spoken of , and so obscurely defin'd by the Ancients , being one continued ridge of ●il●s , which under these several names runs overthwart European Sarmatia , and tends first North , then South , lastly Eastward into Asiatick Sarmatia . The Russian or Moscovian Empire is divided into 30 Provinces , whereof several are Dutchies and Principalities , viz. 1 , Moscovia , properly so called ; the Principal City whereof , and not only of this Province , but of the whole Empire , is Mosco , seated on a River of the same name , but five miles in compass , since burnt by the Tartar : it contains 16 Churches , built for the most part like the houses of mud and wood : but the chief ornament of the Town is the Emperor's Palace , like a Town for largeness : next it is the Palace of the Patriarch . This City is defended by two Castles , Kitugorod and Basigorod : the next Town of note is Sloboda , a Bishop's See. This Province extends from East to West 600 German miles : and , besides the inferior Souldiery , furnishes the Great Duke with 3000 Boiares , who serve in the nature of the Tu●kish Timariots , or such as hold by Knights service . 2 , Volodomire , a Dukedom added to the Title of the Great Duke ; a fertile Province , once the Seat of the Empire , till the time of Iohn Danielovit● , who removed to Mosco , from which it is distant 36 Polonish miles : the next City of note is Muron . 3 , Novogardia the lower , not inferior to Wolodomire in fertility ; and a Dukedom , whose denominating City , scarce parallell'd by any other of the Empire for largeness and fair building , is seated on the Confluence of the Volga and Occa , and guarded with a strong Castle hew'd out of a Rock by the Great Duke Basi●ius , and adorned with a stately Temple , reported to be built in imitation of that of St. Sophia at Constantinople . In some out-skirts of this Province ( rather than in distinct Provinces ) there may be said to live ( rather than inhabit ) sculking up and down in Woods and Wildernesses , two rustick people ; the Czeremissi wonderfully swift of foot , both men and women , and most expert handlers of the Bow and Arrow : and the Mordwits , the civiller of the two , and not altogether without Houses , and little scattering Villages ; but both of them either Ma●umetans , or rather the greatest part of them down-right Idolaters , being bo●h of them a sort of Tartars , though within the Great Dukes Dominion . 4 , Rostow . 5 , ustynga . 6 , Vologda . 7 , Iaroslow , with their several Provincial Towns or Cities of the same denomination , which some will have to belong to the Province of Moscovia : Rostow and Iaroslow , seated on the banks of Volga , have both the Titles of Dukedoms , and belonged heretofore to the Great Duke's second Son : the first is one of the Metropolitan Sees , and guarded with a Castle ; the other a Bishop's See , Vologda is also a Bishop's See , and fortified with a strong Castle , where the Czar keeps part of his treasure . 8 , Duina , as it were Twain , so called from its principal Town , and that from the River upon which it stands ; in which are united the streams of Iuch and Sachona . But the places of most trade and concourse are St. Nicholas , a Sea-Port Town , and B●shops See ; on the Gulph of Granvicus , otherwise called the Bay of St. Nicholas , into which the River Duina cischargeth it self : and especially St. Michael , generally called Archangel , where the English Merchants have a very great Trade , and large-Priviledges : there are also to be taken notice of , Sanga , so named from the stream Sachona , on which it stands ; and Cargapol , another Bishops See , besides the strong Castles Colmagro and Pine●ul . 9 , Rhesan , between Occa and Tanais , adding the Title of another Dukedom to the Czar : a very fertile Province , and well peopled , yielding to the service of the Czar no less than 1500 Boiari K●ights , or Horsemen , and consequently Foot proportionably . The Town from which the Province takes name stands upon the River Octa , the rest are Cossira , an Episcopal See ; Tulla , the source or fountain-head of Tanais ; and Colluga , a strong Garrison against the Tartars . 10 , Severia , a large , and in some places fertile Dutchy ; for it is very much taken up with vast Desarts and Forests : the most observ'd Towns are Starodub , Pot●volo , and Czernigo . 11 , The Dutchy of Wo●otine , which stretcheth it self along the Western-Bank of the River Occa , upon which also stands the Town of Worotine , with a strong Castle . 12 , Permia , a large extended Province , and deriving name from its chief Town , seated on the River Vishore , second to which Town is Siewarsky . 13 , Smolensco Dutchy , full of thick Forests , extending it self along the banks of the River Ni●per , upon which the City Smolensco stands , an Episcopal See. 14 , Mosaiski , a Dukedom , extending in length above 87 German miles , and as much in bredth ; taken by Iohn the Father of Basilius , from Alexander King of Poland : the City which denominates this Province is a Bishops See. 15 , Biela , or Bielski ; a Principality , with a City and Castle of the same name , seated on the River Opska . 16 , The Dukedom of Ruschovia , whose City and Castle of the same name is seated on the River Volga , which takes its source in this Province from the Lake Volga . 17 , Tuver , heretofore one of the chief Principalities of Russia , whose City Tuverda , an Episcopal , See , and reported more magnificent than Mosco it self ; is situated on the Volga , along whose Banks is extended this fair and spacious Territory , affording the Czar no less than 40000 B●ia●i , and double , if not treble the number of Foot. 18 , Plescow , a Principality which stretcheth it self above 80 German miles in length , and near a third part in bredth : whose spacious Metropolis , of the same name , is , of all the Cities of the Russian Empire , the only walled City . It was in the year 1509 taken by the Great Duke Basi●ius from the King of Poland ; some say by the treachery of the Priests . 19 , The Dukedom of Novogardia or Novogrod , for distinction sake entituled Novogardia Magna , as being indeed one of the amplest Provinces in all the Russian Empire , as the City that gives appellation to i● , one of the largest Cities , but generally consisting of wooden or clay buildings , seated on the River Narva , or Ny , ah Archiepiscopal See , and one of the four great Marts or Hans Towns of Russia , heretofore belonging to the King of Poland , as Duke of Lithuania , from whom it was taken by the Great Duke Basilius , or , as some say , his Son Ioannes . The other Towns thought worthy mention , are , Narva , taken also by the Great Duke from the Polander ; situate Northward at the Influx of Duina into the Bay of Finland , Pozow , and Volocoluc , two Frontier Towns strongly fortified , to prevent the incursions of the Poles , besides the strong Castle of Iuanagogo●od , which serves as a frontier defence aganist the Suedes of Narva . 20 , Volzka , or Wot●ka , a little Region lying North-west from Novogardia , and whose primary City of the same name was besieged in vain by Steven King of Poland , with an Army of 10000 men . One remarkable thing is reported of this Countrey , namely , that the Cattel , of what coloured hair soever , that are brought into it , after a short while turn perfectly white . The Volsks , or people of this Countrey , have a Language peculiar to themselves . 21 , Corelia , a Province separated toward the East , with a long tract of Hills from Finland : its chief Towns are Corel●burgh , according to the name of the Province ; and Nordenburg , seated at the entrance of the River Warfuga into St. Nicholas-Bay ; besides Hexholm , in possession of the Swedish King ; to whom therefore , as Lord of Finland , this Province is tributary . 22 , Biarmia , or West-Lapland , for it is accounted a part of Lapland , though subject to the Great Duke ; since the people of this Countrey , called Dikil●pp● ▪ are a sort of wild Laplanders , Tude and barbarous , without setled habitations in Towns or Cities , but living most in Caves , some in scattered sheds toward the Sea-side ; withal , bruitish Idolaters , but performing strange things by sorcery . 23 , Bieleiezioro , a Dukedom increasing the Titles of the Czar , or Great Duke : It is named from the Lake Biolisero , or the White Lake , on which it is situated : extending 36 German miles in length , and as many in bredth . This Countrey is almost all over fenny , and full of woods , 24 , 25 , 26 and 27 ; Four Provinces comprehended in a vast Promontory , which lying on the other side of the Bay of Granvick , or St. Nicholas , over against Biarmia , shoots Northward into the Arctick Region , all won from the Tartars of late years , to the Russian Empire ; namely , Petzora , with its chief Town , so nam'd from the River on which it is situate , near its influx into the Sea , and girdled with a parcel ridge of those Hills called H●perborei . Condora , more Northward , whose chief Town is Pustozera , so cal●ed from the Lake Ozera , near which it stands . Obdora , lying on each side of the River ob , from whence it is so nam'd . Iugria , between the Provinces of Petzora and Duina ; the original habitation ( as some Writers affirm ) of the Pannonians or Hungarjans , as is conjectured , from the resemblance of the Language , or , as others say , of the ancient Ia●yges often mention●d in History . 28 , wiathca , a barren Countrey , and much taken up with large woods , lying beyond t●e River Camm● , Eastward ; taken from the Tartar by the Great Duke Basilius , yet still inhabited according to the Tartarian manner of Hoords and movable Habitations , excepting one City built by the Moscovites since their taking of this Countrey , whereof it bears the name , serving as a Fortress , being garrison'd , to de●end it against those from whom they took it ; but that which hath given greatest advantage to the Russian over the Tartar , hath been the taking of 29 Casan , and 30 Astracan , heretofore two Potent Kingdoms of Tartaria Deserta , from the Nothacensian Tartars . They were first conquered by B●silius , but revolting , totally subdued about the year 1553 by Iohn Vasilovich , annex'd to the Russian Empire , and give Royal addition to the Style of the Czar : Homonymous with these two Kingdoms are their Capital Cities ; besides which , there are most taken notice of in Casan , the Cities S●iatski , 20 versts from the City , that is , within a fourth part so many Italian miles . Tetus , 120 versts distant . Samara , 350. Soratof , as many from Samara . In the Kingdom of Astacan , Zarisa , 350 versts beyond Saratof , towards Astracan ; Tzornogar , 200 versts from Sariza . Before the first Conquest of these two Kingdoms by Basilius Casan , and the total subduing of them by Ioannes B●s●●ides ; and the winning of those Provinces before mentioned . The Tartarian yoke was sh●ken off by Iohn the third , before whose time the Russians were so slavishly tributary to the Tartars , that the Czar was obliged once a year to feed an Horse of the Cham's , which was kept at Mosco for the purpose , with Oats out of his own Cap. On the Northern or frozen Ocean , there lie two Islands towards the Coast of Russia , and therefore supposed to belong to the Russian Empire , viz. Nova Zembla , and Willoughby's Island ; so called , as being first discovered in the year 1553 by Sir Hugh Willoughby ; who in a second Voyage ▪ the next year , his Ship being fix'd in the ice , was in these Seas frozen to death , with all his Company . FINIS .