A50886	----	A brief history of Moscovia and of other less-known countries lying eastward of Russia as far as Cathay, gather'd from the writings of several eye-witnesses / by John Milton. Milton, John, 1608-1674. 1682 Approx. 101 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 59 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A50886 Wing M2096 ESTC R12100 11824989 ocm 11824989 49654 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. A50886) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 49654) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 817:30) A brief history of Moscovia and of other less-known countries lying eastward of Russia as far as Cathay, gather'd from the writings of several eye-witnesses / by John Milton. Milton, John, 1608-1674. [8], 109 p. Printed by M. Flesher, for Brabazon Alymer ..., London : 1682. Reproduction of original in Huntington Library. "Names of the authors from whence these relations have been taken ...": p. 108-109. 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. 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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 Soviet Union -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. Russia -- History -- To 1533. Russia -- History -- 1533-1613. 2002-06 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2002-06 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2002-07 Mona Logarbo Sampled and proofread 2002-10 Aptara Rekeyed and resubmitted 2002-11 Chris Scherer Sampled and proofread 2002-11 Chris Scherer Text and markup reviewed and edited 2002-12 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A Brief HISTORY OF MOSCOVIA : AND Of other less-known Countries lying eastward of Russia as far as Cathay . Gather'd from the Writings of several Eye-witnesses . By IOHN MILTON . LONDON , Printed by M. Flesher , for Brabazon Aylmer at the Three Pigeons against the Royal Exchange . 1682. The Authour's PREFACE . THE study of Geography is both profitable and delightfull ; but the Writers thereof , though some of them exact enough in setting down Longitudes and Latitudes , yet in those other relations of Manners , Religion , Government and such like , accounted Geographical , have for the most part miss'd their proportions . Some too brief and deficient satisfy not ; others too voluminous and impertinent cloy and weary out the Reader ; while they tell long Stories of absurd Superstitions , Ceremonies , quaint Habits , and other petty Circumstances little to the purpose . Whereby that which is usefull , and onely worth observation , in such a wood of words , is either overslip't , or soon forgotten : which perhaps brought into the mind of some men , more learned and judicious , who had not the leisure or purpose to write an entire Geography , yet at least to assay something in the description of one or two Countreys , which might be as a Pattern or Example , to render others more cautious hereafter , who intended the whole work . And this perhaps induc'd Paulus Jovius to describe onely Muscovy and Britain . Some such thoughts , many years since , led me at a vacant time to attempt the like argument ; and I began with Muscovy , as being the most northern Region of Europe reputed civil ; and the more northern Parts thereof , first discovered by English Voiages . Wherein I saw I had by much the advantage of Jovius . What was scatter'd in many Volumes , and observ'd at several times by Eye-witnesses , with no cursory pains I laid together , to save the Reader a far longer travaile of wandring through so many desert Authours ; who yet with some delight drew me after them , from the eastern Bounds of Russia , to the Walls of Cathay , in several late Iourneys made thither overland by Russians , who describe the Countreys in their way far otherwise than our common Geographers . From proceeding further other occasions diverted me . This Essay , such as it is , was thought by some , who knew of it , not amiss to be published ; that so many things remarkable , dispers'd before , now brought under one view , might not hazard to be otherwise lost , nor the labour lost of collecting them . J. M. ADVERTISEMENT . This Book was writ by the Authour 's own hand , before he lost his sight . And sometime before his death dispos'd of it to be printed . But it being small , the Bookseller hop'd to have procured some other suitable Piece of the same Authour 's to have joyn'd with it , or else it had been publish'd ' ere now . MOSCOVIA : OR , Relations of Moscovia , As far as hath been discover'd by English VOYAGES ; Gather'd from the Writings of several Eye-witnesses : And of other less-known Countries lying Eastward of Russia as far as Cathay , lately discovered at several times by Russians . CHAP. I. A brief Description . THE Empire of Moscovia , or as others call it , Russia , is bounded on the North with Lapland and the Ocean ; Southward by the Crim Tartar ; on the West by Lituania , Livonia and Poland ; on the East by the River Ob , or Oby , and the Nagayan Tartars on the Volga , as far as Astracan . The north parts of this Country are so barren , that the Inhabitants fetch their Corn a 1000 miles , and so cold in Winter that the very Sap of their Wood-fewel burning on the fire , freezes at the Brands end where it drops . The Mariners which were left a shipboard in the first English Voyage thither , in going up onely from their Cabins to the Hatches , had their breath so congeal'd by the cold , that they fell down as it were stifl'd . The Bay of Saint Nicholas , where they first put in , lyeth in 64 degrees ; call'd so from the Abby there built of Wood ; wherein are 20 Monks ; unlearned , as then they found them , and great Drunkards : their Church is fair , full of Images , and Tapers . There are besides but 6 Houses , whereof one built by the English. In the Bay over against the Abby is Rose Island , full of damask and red Roses , Violets , and wild Rosemary ; the Isle is in circuit 7 or 8 miles : about the midst of May the snow there is clear'd , having two months been melting ; then the ground in 14 daies is dry , and Grass knee-deep within a month : after September Frost returns , and Snow a yard high : it hath a House built by the English near to a fresh fair Spring North-east of the Abby on the other side of Duina is the Castle of Archangel ; where the English have another House . The River Duina beginning about 700 miles within the Country , having first receiv'd Pinega falls here into the Sea , very large and swift , but shallow . It runneth pleasantly between Hills on either side ; beset like a Wilderness with high Firre , and other Trees : their Boats of Timber without any Iron in them , are either to sail , or to be drawn up with Ropes against the stream . North-east beyond Archangel standeth Lampas , where twice a year is kept a great Fair of Russes , Tartars and Samoeds : and to the Land-ward Mezen , and Slobotca two Towns of traffick between the River Pechora , or Petzora , and Duina ; To Seaward lies the Cape of Candinos , and the Island of Colgoieve about 30 leagues from the Bar of Pechora in 69 degrees . The River Pechora or Petzora holding his course through Siberia , how far , the Russians thereabouts know not , runneth into the Sea at 72. mouths , full of Ice : abounding with Swans , Ducks , Geese and Partridge , which they take in Iuly , sell the Feathers , and salt the Bodies for Winter Provision . On this River spreading to a Lake stands the Town of Pustozera in 68 degrees , having some 80 , or 100 Houses , where certain Merchants of Hull winter'd in the year 1611. The Town Pechora small and poor hath 3 Churches . They traded there up the River 4 daies journey to Oustzilma a small Town of 60 Houses . The Russians that have travail'd , say that this River springs out of the Mountains of Iougoria and runs through Permia . Not far from the Mouth thereof are the Straits of Vaigats , of which hereafter : more eastward is the Point of Naramzy , and next to that , the River Ob. Beyond which , the Muscovites have extended lately their dominion . Touching the Riphaean Mountains whence Tanais was anciently thought to spring , our men could hear nothing ; but rather that the whole Country is Champain , and in the northmost part huge and desert Woods of Firre , abounding with Black Wolves , Bears , Buffs , and another Beast call'd Rossomakka , whose Female bringeth forth by passing through some narrow place , as between two Stakes ; and so presseth her Womb to a disburthening . Travailing southward they found the Country more pleasant , fair and better inhabited , Corn , Pasture , Meadows and huge Woods . Arkania ( if it be not the same with Archangel ) is a place of English trade , from whence a days journey distant , but from Saint Nicholas a 100 versts , Colmogro stands on the Duina : a great Town not wall'd , but scatter'd . The English have here Lands of their own , given them by the Emperour , and fair Houses ; not far beyond , Pinega running between Rocks of Alabaster and great Woods , meets with Duina . From Colmogro to Vstiug are 500 versts or little miles , an ancient City upon the Confluence of Iuga , and Sucana into Duina which there first receives his name . Thence continuing by water to Wologda ; a great City so nam'd of the River which passes through the midst ; it hath a Castle wall'd about with Brick and Stone , and many wooden Churches , two for every Parish , the one in Winter to be heated , the other us'd in Summer ; this is a Town of much Traffick a 1000 miles from Saint Nicholas . All this way by water no lodging is to be had but under open Sky by the River side , and other provision onely what they bring with them . From Wologda by Sled they go to Yeraslave on the Volga , whose breadth is there at least a mile over ; and thence runs 2700 versts to the Caspian Sea , having his head Spring out of Bealozera , which is a Lake , amidst whereof is built a strong Tower wherein the Kings of Moscovy reserve their Treasure in time of War. From this Town to Rostove , then to Pereslave a great Town situate on a fair Lake ; thence to Mosco . Between Yeraslave and Mosco which is 200 miles , the Country is so fertile , so populous and full of Villages , that in a forenoon 7 or 800 Sleds are usually seen coming with Salt Fish , or laden back with Corn. Mosco the chief City , lying in 55 degrees , distant from Saint Nicholas 1500 miles , is reputed to be greater than London with the Suburbs , but rudely built , their Houses and Churches most of Timber , few of Stone , their Streets unpav'd ; it hath a fair Castle four-square , upon a Hill , two miles about , with Brick Walls very high , and some say 18 foot thick , 16 Gates , and as many Bulwarks ; in the Castle are kept the chief Markets , and in Winter on the River being then firm Ice . This River Moscua on the south-west side encloses the Castle , wherein are nine fair Churches with round gilded Towers , and the Emperour's Palace ; which neither within , nor without is equal for state to the King's Houses in England but rather like our Buildings of old fashion with small Windows , some of Glass , some with Latices , or Iron Bars . They who travail from Mosco to the Caspian , go by Water down the Moscua to the River Occa ; then by certain Castles to Rezan , a famous City now ruinate ; the 10 th day to Nysnovogrod where Occa falls into Volga , which the Tartars call Edel. From thence the 11 th day to Cazan a Tartan City of great wealth heretofore , now under the Russian ; wall'd at first with Timber and Earth , but since by the Emperour Vasiliwich with free Stone . From Cazan to the River Cama falling into Volga from the Province of Permia , the People dwelling on the left side are Gentiles , and live in Woods without Houses : beyond them to Astracan , Tartars of Mangat , and Nagay ; on the right side those of Crimme . From Mosco to Astracan is about 600 leagues . The Town is situate in an Island on a Hill-side wall'd with Earth , but the Castle with Earth and Timber ; the Houses except that of the Governour 's , and some few others , poor and simple ; the Ground utterly barren , and without Wood : they live there on Fish , and Sturgeon especially ; which hanging up to dry in the Streets and Houses brings whole swarms of Flies , and infection to the Aire , and oft great Pestilence . This Island in length 12 leagues , 3 in breadth is the Russian limit toward the Caspian , which he keeps with a strong Garrison ; being 20 leagues from that Sea into which Volga falls at 70 mouths . From Saint Nicholas , or from Mosco to the Caspian they pass in 46 daies and nights , most part by Water . West-ward from Saint Nicholas 1200 miles , is the City Novogrod 58 degrees , the greatest Mart-town of all this Dominion , and in bigness not inferior to Mosco . The way thither is through the western bottom of Saint Nicholas Bay , and so along the Shoar full of dangerous Rocks to the Monastery Solofky , wherein are at least 200 Monks ; the People thereabout in a manner Savages , yet Tenants to those Monks . Thence to the dangerous River Owiga , wherein are Waterfalls as steep as from a Mountain , and by the violence of their descent kept from freezing ; so that the Boats are to be carried there a mile over land : which the Tenants of that Abby did by command , and were guides to the Merchants without taking any reward . Thence to the Town Povensa standing within a mile of the famous Lake Onega 320 miles long ; and in some places 70 , at narrowest 25 broad , and of great depth . Thence by some Monasteries to the River Swire ; then into the Lake Ladiscay much longer than Onega : after which into the River Volhusky which through the midst of Novogrod runs into this Lake , and this Lake into the Baltick sound by Narv and Revel . Their other Cities toward the western bound are Plesco , Smolensko on Vobsco . The Emperour exerciseth absolute power : if any man die without male issue , his Land returns to the Emperour . Any rich man who through age , or other impotence is unable to serve the Publick , being inform'd of , is turn'd out of his Estate , and forc'd with his Family to live on a small Pension , while some other more deserving , is by the Duke's authority put into possession . The manner of informing the Duke is thus . Your Grace , saith one , hath such a Subject , abounding with Riches , but for service of the State unmeet , and you have others poor and in want , but well able to doe their Country good service . Immediately the Duke sends forth to enquire , and calling the Rich man before him , Friend , saith he , you have too much Living , and are unserviceable to your Prince ; less will serve you , and the rest maintain others who deserve more . The man thus call'd to impart his Wealth , repines not , but humbly answers , that all he hath is God's , and the Duke's : as if he made restitution of what more justly was anothers , than parted with his own . Every Gentleman hath rule and justice over his own Tenants : if the Tenants of two Gentlemen agree not , they seek to compose it , if they cannot , each brings his Tenant before the high Judge of that Country . They have no Lawyers , but every man pleads his own Cause , or else by Bill or Answer in writing delivers it with his own hands to the Duke : yet Justice by corruption of inferiour Officers is much perverted . Where other proof is wanting , they may try the matter by personal combat , or by champion . If a Debtor be poor , he becomes bondman to the Duke , who lets out his labour till it pay the dept ; till then he remains in bondage : another tryal they have by lots . The Revenues of the Emperour are what he list , and what his Subjects are able ; and he omits not the coursest means to raise them : for in every good Town there is a drunken Tavern , call'd a Cursemay , which the Emperour either lets out to farm , or bestowes on some Duke , or Gentleman in reward of his Service ; who for that time is Lord of the whole Town , robbing and spoiling at his pleasure ; till being well enricht , he is sent at his own charge to the Wars , and there squeez'd of his ill got wealth ; by which means the waging of war is to the Emperour little or nothing chargeable . The Russian armeth not less in time of war than 300 thousand men ; half of whom he takes with him into the Field , the rest bestows in Garrisons on the Borders . He presseth no Husbandman or Merchant , but the Youth of the Realm . He useth no Foot , but such as are Pioners , or Gunners , of both which sort 30 thousand . The rest being Horsemen , are all Archers , and ride with a short Stirrup after the Turkish . Their Armour is a Coat of Plate , and a Skull on their Heads . Some of their Coats are cover'd with Velvet , or cloth of Gold ; for they desire to be gorgeous in Arms , but the Duke himself above measure : his Pavilion cover'd with cloth of Gold , or Silver , set with pretious Stones . They use little Drums at the Saddle bow instead of Spurs ; for at sound thereof the Horses run more swiftly . They fight without order ; nor willingly give battail but by stealth or ambush ; of cold and hard Diet marvelously patient ; for when the Ground is cover'd with Snow froz'n a yard thick , the common Souldier will lie in the Field two months together without Tent , or covering over head ; onely hangs up his Mantle against that part from whence the Weather drives , and kindling a little fire , lies him down before it , with his Back under the Wind : his Drink , the cold Stream mingl'd with Oat-meal , and the same all his Food : his Horse fed with Green Wood and Bark , stands all this while in the open Field , yet does his service . The Emperour gives no pay at all , but to Strangers ; yet repaies good deserts in war with certain Lands during life ; and they who oftenest are sent to the wars , think themselves most favour'd , though serving without Wages . On the 12 th of December yearly the Emperour rides into the Field which is without the City , with all his Nobility on Jennets and Turky Horses in great state : before him 5000 Harquebusiers , who shoot at a bank of Ice till they beat it down , the Ordnance , which they have very fair of all sorts , they plant against two wooden Houses fill'd with earth at least 30 foot thick , and beginning with the smallest , shoot them all off thrice over , having beat those two Houses flat . Above the rest 6 great Cannon they have , whose Bullet is a yard high , so that a man may see it flying ; then out of Morter-pieces they shoot wild-fire into the Aire . Thus the Emperour having seen what his Gunners can doe , returns home in the same order . They follow the Greek Church , but with excess of Superstitions ; their Service is in the Russian Tongue . They hold the Ten Commandments not to concern them , saying that God gave them under the Law , which Christ by his death on the Cross hath abrogated : the Eucharist they receive in both kinds ; they observe 4 Lents , have Service in their Churches daily , from two hours before dawn to Evening ; yet for Whordom , Drunkenness and Extortion none worse than the Clergy . They have many great and rich Monasteries , where they keep great hospitality . That of Trojetes hath in it 700 Friers , and is wall'd about with Brick very strongly , having many Pieces of Brass Ordnance on the Walls ; most of the Lands , Towns and Villages within 40 miles belong to those Monks , who are also as great Merchants as any in the Land. During Easter Holy-daies when two Friends meet they take each other by the hand ; one of them saying , the Lord is risen ; the other answering , it is so of a truth ; and then they kiss , whether Men or Women . The Emperour esteemeth the Metropolitan next to God , after our Lady , and Saint Nicholas , as being his spiritual Officer , himself but his temporal . But the Muscovites that border on Tartaria are yet Pagans . When there is love between two , the Man among other trifling Gifts , sends to the Woman a Whip , to signify , if she offend , what the must expect ; and it is a Rule among them , that if the Wife be not beaten once a week , she thinks her self not belov'd , and is the worse ; yet are they very obedient , and stir not forth , but at some Seasons . Upon utter dislike , the Husband divorces ; which Liberty no doubt they receiv'd first with their Religion from the Greek Church , and the Imperial Laws . Their Dead they bury with new Shooes on their Feet , as to a long Journey ; and put Letters testimonial in their Hands to Saint Nicholas , or Saint Peter , that this was a Russe of Russes and dy'd in the true Faith ; which , as they believe , Saint Peter having read , forthwith admits him into Heaven . They have no Learning , nor will suffer to be among them ; their greatest friendship is in drinking ; they are great Talkers , Lyars , Flatterers and Dissemblers . They delight in gross Meats and noysom Fish ; their Drink is better , being sundry sorts of Meath ; the best made with Juice of a sweet and crimson Berry call'd Maliena , growing also in France ; other sorts with Black-cherry , or divers other Berries : another Drink they use in the Spring drawn from the Birch-tree Root , whose Sap after Iune dries up . But there is no People that live so miserably as the Poor of Russia ; if they have Straw and Water they make shift to live ; for Straw dry'd and stampt in Winter time is their Bread ; in Summer Grass and Roots ; at all times Bark of Trees is good Meat with them ; yet many of them die in the Street for hunger , none relieving , or regarding them . When they are sent into Foreign Countries , or that Strangers come thither , they are very sumptuous in apparel , else the Duke himself goes but meanly . In Winter they travail onely upon Sleds , the Wayes being hard , and smooth with Snow , the Rivers all froz'n : one Horse with a Sled will draw a man 400 miles in 3 daies ; in Summer the way is deep , and travailing ill . The Russe of better sort goes not out in Winter , but on his Sled ; in Summer on his Horse : in his Sled he sits on a Carpet , or a white Bears Skin ; the Sled drawn with a Horse well deckt , with many Fox or Wolve Tayles about his Neck , guided by a Boy on his Back , other Servants riding on the tayle of the Sled . The Russian Sea breeds a certain Beast which they call a Morse ; who seeks his Food on the Rocks , climing up with help of his Teeth ; whereof they make as great account , as we of the Elephant's Tooth . CHAP. II. Of Samoedia , Siberia , and other Countries north-east subject to the Muscovites . NOrth-east of Russia lieth Samoedia by the River Ob. This Country was first discover'd by Oneke a Russian ; who first trading privately among them in rich Furrs got great Wealth , and the knowledge of their Country ; then reveal'd his discovery to Boris Protectour to Pheodor , shewing how beneficial that Country gain'd , would be to the Empire . Who sending Ambassadours among them gallantly attir'd , by fair means won their subjection to the Empire ; every Head paying yearly two Skins of richest Sables . Those Messengers travailing also 200 leagues beyond Ob east-ward , made report of pleasant Countries , abounding with Woods and Fountains , and People riding on Elks and Loshes , others drawn on Sleds by Rain-deer , others by Dogs as swift as Deer . The Somoeds that came along with those Messengers returning to Mosco admir'd the stateliness of that City , and were as much admir'd for excellent Shooters , hitting every time the breadth of a penny , as far distant as hardly could be discern'd . The River Ob is reported by the Russes to be in breadth the sayling of a Summer's day : but full of Islands and Shoals , having neither Woods , nor , till of late , Inhabitants . Out of Ob they turn into the River Tawze . The Russians have here , since the Samoeds yielded them subjection , two Governours with 3 or 400 Gunners ; have built Villages and some small Castles ; all which Place they call Mongozey , or Molgomzay , Further up-land they have also built other Cities of Wood , consisting chiefly of Poles , Tartars and Russes , fugitive or condemned men ; as Vergateria , Siber , whence the whole Country is nam'd , Tinna , thence Tobolsca on this side Ob , on the Rivers Irtis , and Tobol , chief Seat of the Russian Governour ; above that , Zergolta in an Island of Ob , where they have a Custom house , beyond that on the other side Ob , Narim , and Tooina now a great City . Certain Churches also are erected in those Parts ; but no man forc'd to Religion ; beyond Narim eastward on the River Telta is built the Castle of Comgoscoi , and all this Plantation began since the year 1590. with many other Towns like these . And these are the Countries from whence come all the Sables and rich Furrs . The Samoeds have no Towns , or certain place of abode , but up and down where they find Moss for their Deer ; they live in companies peaceably , and are govern'd by some of the Ancientest amongst them , but are Idolaters . They shoot wondrous cunningly ; their Arrow heads are sharpned Stones , or Fish-bones , which latter serve them also for Needles , their Thread being the Sinews of certain small Beasts , wherewith they sowe the Furrs which cloath them ; the furry side in Summer outward , in Winter inward . They have many Wives , and their Daughters they sell to him who bids most ; which , if they be not lik't , are turn'd back to their Friends , the Husband allowing onely to the Father what the marriage Feast stood him in . Wives are brought to bed there by their Husbands , and the next day go about as before . They till not the Ground ; but live on the Flesh of those Wild Beasts which they hunt . They are the onely Guides to such as travaile Iougoria , Siberia , or any of those north-east parts in Winter ; being drawn on Sleds with Bucks , riding post day and night , if it be Moon-light ; and lodge on the Snow under Tents of Deer Skins in whatever place they find enough of white Moss to feed their Sled Staggs , turning them loose to dig it up themselves out of the deep Snow : another Samoede stepping to the next Wood , brings in store of Firing ; round about which they lodge within their Tents , leaving the top open to vent Smoak ; in which manner they are as warm as the Stoves in Russia . They carry Provision of Meat with them , and partake besides of what Fowle or Venison the Samoede kills with shooting by the way ; their Drink is melted Snow . Two Deer being yoak'd to a Sled riding post will draw 200 miles in 24 hours without resting , and laden with their Stuff will draw it 30 miles in 12. CHAP. III. Of Tingoesia , and the Countries adjoyning eastward , as far as Cathay . BEyond Narim and Comgoscoi the Souldiers of those Garrisons travailing by appointment of the Russian Governour in the year 1605. found many goodly Countries not inhabited ; many vast Deserts , and Rivers , till at the end of ten weeks they spy'd certain Cottages , and Herds , or companies of People , which came to them with reverent behaviour , and signify'd to the Samoeds and Tartars , which were Guides to the Russian Souldiers , that they were call'd Tingoesi ; that their dwelling was on the great River Ienissey . This River is said to be far bigger than Ob ; distant from the Mouth thereof 4 daies and nights sayling ; and likewise falls into the Sea of Naramzie ; it hath high Mountains on the East , some of which cast out Fire , to the West a plain and fertil Country , which in the Spring time it overflowes about 70 leagues ; all that time the Inhabitants keep them in the Mountains , and then return with their Cattel to the Plain . The Tingoesi are a very gentle Nation , they have great swoln Throats like those in Italy that live under the Alpes ; at perswasion of the Samoeds they forthwith submitted to the Russian Government ; and at their request travailing the next year to discover still eastward , they came at length to a River , which the Savages of that place call'd Pisida , somewhat less than Ienissey ; beyond which hearing ofttimes the towling of Brazen Bells , and sometimes the noise of Men and Horses , they durst not pass over ; they saw there certain Sayles afar off , square , and therefore suppos'd to be like Indian or China Sayles , and the rather for that they report that great Guns have been heard shot off from those Vessels . In April , and May they were much delighted with the fair prospect of that Country , replenish't with many rare Trees , Plants and Flowers , Beasts and Fowle . Some think here to be the Borders of Tangut in the north of Cathay . Some of those Samoeds about the Year 1610. travail'd so far till they came in view of a White City ; and heard a great din of Bells , and report there came to them Men all arm'd in Iron from head to foot . And in the Year 1611. divers out of Cathay , and others from Alteen Czar who stiles himself the golden King , came and traded at Zergolta , or Surgoot on the River Ob , bringing with them Plates of Silver . Whereupon Michael Pheodorowick the Russian Emperour in the Year 1619. sent certain of his People from Tooma to Alteen , and Cathay , who return'd with Ambassadours from those Princes . These relate , that from Tooma in ten daies and a half , three daies whereof over a Lake , where Rubies and Saphirs grow , they came to the Alteen King , or King of Alty ; through his Land in five weeks they pass'd into the Country of Sheromugaly or Mugalla , where reigned a Queen call'd Manchika ; whence in four daies they came to the Borders of Cathay , fenc't with a stone Wall , 15 fathom high ; along the side of which , having on the other hand many pretty Towns belonging to Queen Manchika , they travail'd ten daies without seeing any on the Wall till they came to the Gate . Where they saw very great Ordnance lying , and 3000 men in watch . They traffick with other Nations at the Gate , and very few at once are suffered to enter . They were travailing from Tooma to this Gate 12 weeks ; and from thence to the great City of Cathay ten daies . Where being conducted to the House of Ambassadours , within a few daies there came a Secretary from King Tambur with 200 Men well apparell'd , and riding on Asses , to feast them with divers sorts of Wine , and to demand their Message ; but having brought no Presents with them , they could not be admitted to his sight ; onely with his Letter to the Emperour they return'd as is aforesaid , to Tobolsca . They report that the Land of Mugalla reaches from Boghar to the north Sea , and hath many Castles built of Stone four-square , with Towers at the Corners cover'd with glazed Tiles ; and on the Gates Alarum-Bells or Watch-Bells twenty pound weight of Metal ; their Houses built also of Stone , the Seelings cunningly painted with Flowers of all Colours . The People are Idolaters ; the Country exceeding fruitfull . They have Asses and Mules , but no Horses . The People of Cathay say that this great Wall stretches from Boghar to the north Sea four months journey with continual Towers a flight-shot distant from each other , and Beacons on every Tower ; and that this Wall is the bound between Mugalla and Cathay . In which are but five Gates ; those narrow , and so low , that a Horse-man sitting upright cannot ride in . Next to the Wall is the City Shirokalga ; it hath a Castle well furnish't with short Ordnance , and small Shot , which they who keep watch on the Gates , Towers and Walls , duly at Sun set and rising discharge thrice over . The City abounds with rich Merchandize , Velvets , Damasks , Cloth of Gold and Tissue , with many sorts of Sugars . Like to this is the City Tara , their Markets smell odoriferously with Spices , and Tayth more rich than that . Shirooan yet more magnificent , half a day's journey through , and exceeding populous . From hence to Cathaia the imperial City is two daies journey , built of White-stone four-square , in circuit four daies going , corner'd with four White Towers , very high and great , and others very fair along the Wall , white intermingl'd with blew , and Loop-holes furnisht with Ordnance . In midst of this White City stands a Castle built of Magnet , where the King dwels , in a sumptuous Palace , the top whereof is overlaid with Gold. The City stands on even ground encompass'd with the River Youga , 7 daies journey from the Sea. The People are very fair , but not warlike , delighting most in rich Traffick . These Relations are referr'd hither , because we have them from Russians ; who report also , that there is a Sea beyond Ob so warm that all kind of Sea-Fowl live thereabout as well in Winter as in Summer . Thus much briefly of the Sea and Lands between Russia , and Cathay . CHAP. IV. The Succession of Moscovia Dukes and Emperours taken out of their Chronicles by a Polack with some later Additions . THE great Dukes of Muscovy derive their Pedegree , though without ground , from Augustus Caesar : whom they fable to have sent certain of his Kindred to be Governours over many remote Provinces ; and among them , Prussus over Prussia ; him to have had his Seat on the eastern Baltick Shoar by the River Wixel ; of whom Rurek , Sinaus , and Truuor descended by the Fourth Generation , were by the Russians living then without Civil Government sent for in the Year 573. to bear rule over them ; at the perswasion of Gostomislius chief Citizen of Novogrod . They therefore taking with them Olechus their Kinsman divided those Countries among themselves , and each in his Province taught them Civil Government . Ivorson of Rurek , the rest dying without Issue , became Successour to them all ; being left in nonage under the protection of Olechus . He took to wife Olha Daughter to a Citizen of Plesco ; of whom he begat Stoslaus ; but after that , being slain by his Enemies , Olha his Wife went to Constantinople , and was there baptiz'd Helena . Stoslaus fought many Battails with his Enemies ; but was at length by them slain , who made a Cup of his Scull engrav'n with this Sentence in Gold ; Seeking after other Mens he lost his own His Sons were Teropolchus , Olega and Volodimir . Volodimir having slain the other two , made himself sole Lord of Russia ; yet after that fact enclining to Christian Religion , had to wife Anna Sister of Basilius and Constantine Greek Emperours ; and with all his People in the Year 988. was baptiz'd , and call'd Basilius . Howbeit Zonaras reporteth that before that time Basilius the Greek Emperour sent a Bishop to them ; at whose preaching they not being mov'd , but requiring a Miracle , he , after devout Prayers , taking the Book of Gospel into his hands , threw it before them all into the Fire : which remaining there unconsum'd , they were converted . Volodimir had eleven Sons among whom he divided his Kingdom ; Boristus and Glebus for their holy Life register'd Saints ; and their Feast kept every year in November with great solemnity . The rest through contention to have the sole Government , ruin'd each other ; leaving onely Iaroslaus inheritour of all . Volodimir Son of Iaroslaus kept his Residence in the ancient City Kiow upon the River Boristenes . And after many conflicts with the Sons of his Uncles ; and having subdu'd all was call'd Monomachus . He made war with Constantine the Greek Emperour , wasted Thracia , and returning home with great spoils to prepare new war , was appeas'd by Constantine , who sent Neophytus Bishop of Ephesus , and Eustathius Abbot of Ierusalem , to present him with part of our Saviour's Cross , and other rich Gifts , and to salute him by the name of Czar , or Caesar : with whom he thenceforth enter'd into league and amity . After him in order of descent Vuszevolodus , George , Demetrius . Then George , his Son , who in the Year 1237. was slain in battail by the Tartar Prince Bathy , who subdu'd Muscovia and made it tributary . From that time the Tartarians made such Dukes of Russia , as they thought would be most pliable to their ends ; of whom they requir'd , as oft as Ambassadours came to him out of Tartary , to go out and meet them ; and in his own Court to stand bare-headed , while they sate and deliver'd their Message . At which time the Tartars wasted also Polonia , Silesia , and Hungaria , till Pope Innocent the Fourth obtain'd peace of them for 5 years . This Bathy , say the Russians , was the Father of Tamerlan , whom they call Temirkutla . Then succeeded Iaroslaus the Brother of George , then Alexander his Son. Daniel the Son of Alexander was he who first made the City of Mosco his Royal Seat , builded the Castle , and took on him the Title of great Duke . Iohn the Son of Daniel was sirnamed Kaleta , that word signifying a Scrip , out of which , continually carried about with him , he was wont to deal his Almes . His Son Simeon dying without Issue left the Kingdom to Iohn his next Brother ; and he to his Son Demetrius , who left two Sons , Basilius and George . Basilius reigning had a Son of his own name , but doubting lest not of his own Body , through the suspicion he had of his Wife's Chastity , him he disinherits , and gives the Dukedom to his Brother George . George putting his Nephew Basilius in prison , reigns ; yet at his death , either through remorse , or other cause surrenders him the Dukedom . Basilius unexpectedly thus attaining his supposed right , enjoy'd it not long in quiet ; for Andrew and Demetrius the two Sons of George counting it injury not to succeed their Father , made war upon him , and surprizing him on a suddain , put out his Eyes . Notwithstanding which , the Boiarens , or Nobles kept their allegiance to the Duke though blind , whom therefore they call'd Cziemnox . Iohn Vasiliwich his Son was the first who brought the Russian Name out of obscurity into renown . To secure his own Estate he put to death as many of his kindred as were likely to pretend ; and stil'd himself great Duke of Wolodimiria , Muscovia , Novogardia , Czar of all Russia . He won Plesco the onely walled City in all Muscovy , and Novogrod the richest , from the Lituanians , to whom they had been subject 50 years before ; and from the latter carried home 300 Waggons laden with Treasure . He had war with Alexander King of Poland , and with the Livonians ; with him , on pretence of withdrawing his Daughter Helena , whom he had to wife , from the Greek Church to the Romish ; with the Livonians for no other cause , but to enlarge his Bounds : though he were often foyl'd by Plettebergius great Master of the Prussian Knights . His Wife was Daughter to the Duke of Tyversky ; of her he begat Iohn , and to him resigned his Dukedom ; giving him to wife the Daughter of Steven , Palatine of Moldavia ; by whom he had Issue Demetrius , and deceas'd soon after . Vasiliwich therefore reassuming the Dukedom married a second Wife Sophia Daughter to Thomas Palaeologus : who is said to have receiv'd her Dowry out of the Pope's Treasury , upon promise of the Duke to become Romish . This Princess of a haughty mind , often complaining that she was married to the Tartars Vassal , at length by continual perswasions , and by a wile found means to ease her Husband , and his Country of that Yoke . For whereas till then the Tartar had his Procurators , who dwelt in the very Castle of Mosco , to oversee State-affairs , she fain'd that from Heaven she had been warn'd , to build a Temple to Saint Nicholas on the same place where the Tartar Agents had their House . Being therefore delivered of a Son , she made it her request to the Prince of Tartary , whom she had invited to the baptizing , that he would give her that House ; which obtaining she raz'd to the ground ; and remov'd those Overseers out of the Castle : and so by degrees dispossess'd them of all , which they held in Russia . She prevail'd also with her Husband to transfer the Dukedom from Demetrius the Son of Iohn deceas'd , to Gabriel his eldest by her . Gabriel no sooner Duke , but chang'd his name to Basilius , and set his mind to doe nobly ; he recover'd great part of Muscovy ▪ from Vitoldus Duke of Lituania ; and on the Boristhenes won Smolensko and many other Cities in the Year 1514. He divorc'd his first Wife , and of Helena Daughter to Duke Glinsky begat Iuan Vasiliwich . Iuan Vasiliwich being left a Child was committed to George his Unkle and Protector ; at 25 years of age he vanquish'd the Tartars of Cazan and Astracan , bringing home with him their Princes captive ; made cruel war in Livonia pretending right of inheritance . He seem'd exceedingly devout , and whereas the Russians in their Churches use out of zeal and reverence to knock their Heads against the ground , his Forehead was seldom free of swellings and bruzes , and very often seen to bleed . The cause of his rigour in government , he alledg'd to be the malice and treachery of his Subjects . But some of the Nobles incited by his cruelty , call'd in the Crim Tartar who in the Year 1571. broke into Russia , burnt Mosco to the ground : he reigned 54 years ; had three Sons , of which the eldest being strook on a time by his Father , with grief thereof dy'd ; his other Sons were Pheodor and Demetrius : in the time of Iuan Vasiliwich the English came first by Sea into the north parts of Russia . Pheodor Iuanowick being under age was left to the protection of Boris Brother to the young Empress , and third Son by adoption in the Emperour 's Will. After 40 daies of mourning , the appointed time of Coronation being come , the Emperour issuing out of his Palace , the whole Clergy before him , enter'd with his Nobility the Church of Blaueshina or blessedness ; whence after Service to the Church of Michael , then to our Lady Church being the Cathedral . In midst whereof a Chair of Majesty was plac'd , and most unvaluable Garments put upon him : there also was the imperial Crown set on his Head by the Metropolitan , who out of a small Book in his hand read Exhortations to the Emperour , of justice and peaceable government . After this rising from his Chair he was invested with an upper Robe , so thick with Orient Pearls and Stones as weigh'd 200 pounds , the Train born up by 6 Dukes ; his Staff imperial was of a Unicorn's Horn three foot and a half long , beset with rich Stones : his Globe , and six Crowns carried before him by Princes of the Bloud : his Horse at the Church door stood ready with a Covering of imbroidered Pearl , Saddle and all suitable to the value of 300 thousand Marks . There was a kind of Bridge made three waies , 150 fathom long , three foot high , two fathom broad , whereon the Emperour with his Train went from one Church to another above the infinite throng of People making loud Acclamations ; At the Emperour's returning from those Churches they were spread under-foot , with Cloth of Gold , the Porches with Red Velvet , the Bridges with Scarlet and Stammel-cloth , all which , as the Emperour pass'd by , were cut and snatch't by them that stood next ; besides new minted Coines of Gold and Silver cast among the People . The Empress in her Palace was plac't before a great open Window in rich and shining Robes , among her Ladies . After this the Emperour came into Parliament , where he had a Banquet serv'd by his Nobles in princely order ; two standing on either side his Chair with Battel-axes of Gold ; three of the next Roomes great and large being set round with Plate of Gold and Silver , from the ground up to the roof . This Triumph lasted a week , wherein many royal Pastimes were seen : after which , election was made of the Nobles to new Offices and Dignities . The conclusion of all was a Peal of 170 Brass Ordnance two miles without the City , and 20000 Harquebuzes twice over : and so the Emperour with at least 50 thousand Horse return'd through the City to his Palace : where all the Nobility , Officers , and Merchants brought him rich Presents . Shortly after , the Emperour by direction of Boris conquer'd the large Country of Siberia , and took Prisoner the King thereof : he remov'd also corrupt Officers and former Taxes . In sum , a great alteration in the Government follow'd , yet all quietly , and without tumult . These things reported abroad strook such awe into the neighbour Kings , that the Crim Tartar with his Wives also and many Nobles valiant and personable men came to visit the Russian . There came also 12 hundred Polish Gentlemen , many Circassians , and People of other Nations to offer service ; Ambassadours from the Turk , the Persian , Georgian , and other Tartar Princes ; from Almany , Poland , Sweden , Denmark . But this glory lasted not long through the treachery of Boris , who procur'd the death first of Demetrius , then of the Emperour himself , whereby the imperial Race after the succession of 300 years was quite extinguish't . Boris , adopted , as before was said , third Son to Iuan Vasiliwich without impeachment now ascended the Throne ; but neither did he enjoy long , what he had so wickedly compass'd ; Divine revenge raising up against him a Counterfeit of that Demetrius whom he had caus'd to be murthered at Ouglets . This Upstart strength'd with many Poles and Cossacks appears in arms to claim his right out of the hands of Boris , who sent against him an Army of 200 thousand Men ; many of whom revolted to this Demetrius : Peter Basman the General returning to Mosco with the empty Triumph of a reported Victory . But the Enemy still advancing , Boris one day , after a plentifull Meal finding himself heavy and pain'd in his Stomach laid him down on his Bed ; but ' ere his Doctours , who made great haste , came to him , was found speechless , and soon after dy'd , with grief , as is suppos'd , of his ill success against Demetrius . Before his death , though it were speedy , he would be shorn , and new christn'd . He had but one Son , whom he lov'd so fondly , as not to suffer him out of sight ; using to say he was Lord and Father of his Son , and yet his Servant , yea his Slave . To gain the Peoples love , which he had lost by his ill getting the Empire , he us'd two Policies ; first he caus'd Mosco to be fir'd in four places , that in the quenching thereof he might shew his great care and tenderness of the People ; among whom he likewise distributed so much of his Bounty , as both new-built their Houses , and repair'd their Losses . At another time the People murmuring , that the great Pestilence which had then swept away a third part of the Nation , was the punishment of their electing him , a Murtherer , to reign over them , he built Galleries round about the utmost Wall of Mosco ; and there appointed for one whole month 20 thousand pound to be given to the Poor ; which well nigh stopt their Mouths . After the death of Boris , Peter Basman their onely hope and refuge , though a Young man , was sent again to the Wars , with him many English , Scots , French and Dutch ; who all with the other General Goleeche sell off to the new Demetrius ; whose Messengers coming now to the Suburbs of Mosco , were brought by the Multitude to that spatious Field before the Castle Gate ; within which the Council were then sitting ; many of whom were by the Peoples threatning call'd out and constrain'd to hear the Letters of Demetrius openly read : which , long ' ere the end , wrought so with the Multitude , that furiously they broke into the Castle , laying violence on all they met ; when strait appear'd coming towards them two Messengers of Demetrius formerly sent , pittifully whipt and roasted , which added to their rage . Then was the whole City in an uproar , all the great Counselours Houses ransack't , especially of the Godonova's the Kindred and Family of Boris . Such of the Nobles that were best belov'd , by entreaty prevail'd at length to put an end to this Tumult . The Empress flying to a safer place had her Collar of Pearl pull'd from her Neck ; and by the next Message command was given to secure her with her Son and Daughter . Whereupon Demetrius by general consent was proclaim'd Emperour . The Empress now seeing all lost , counsel'd the Prince her Son to follow his Father's example ; who , it seems , had dispatch't himself by Poyson ; and with a desperate courage beginning the deadly Health , was pledg'd effectually by her Son ; but the Daughter onely sipping , escap'd . Others ascribe this deed to the secret Command of Demetrius , and Self-murther imputed to them , to avoid the envy of such a Command . Demetrius Evanowich , for so he call'd himself , who succeeded , was credibly reported the Son of Gregory Peupoloy a Russe Gentleman , and in his younger years to have been shorn a Fryar ; but escaping from the Monastery , to have travail'd Germany and other Countries , but chiefly Poland : where he attain'd to good sufficiency in Arms and other Experience ; which rais'd in him such high thoughts , as grounding on a common belief among the Russians , that the young Demetrius was not dead , but convey'd away , and their hatred against Boris , on this foundation with some other circumstances , to build his hopes no lower than an Empire ; which on his first discovery found acceptation so generally , as planted him at length on the Royal Seat ; but not so firmly as the fair beginning promis'd ; for in a short while the Russians finding themselves abus'd by an Impostor , on the sixth day after his marriage ▪ observing when his Guard of Poles were most secure , rushing into the Palace before break of day , drag'd him out of his Bed , and when he had confes'd the fraud , pull'd him to pieces ; with him Peter Basman was also slain , and both their dead Bodies laid open in the Market-place . He was of no presence , but otherwise of a princely disposition ; too bountifull , which occasion'd some exactions ; in other matters a great lover of justice , not unworthy the Empire which he had gotten , and lost onely through greatness of mind , neglecting the Conspiracy , which he knew the Russians were plotting . Some say their hatred grew , for that they saw him alienated from the Russian Manners and Religion , having made Buchinskoy a learned Protestant his Secretary . Some report from Gilbert's relation , who was a Scot , and Captain , of his Guard , that lying on his Bed awake , not long before the Conspiracy , he saw the appearance of an aged man coming toward him ; at which he rose , and call'd to them that watch'd ; but they denied to have seen any such pass by them . He returning to his Bed , and within an hour after troubl'd again with the same Apparition , sent for Buchinskoy , telling him he had now twice the same night seen an aged man , who at his second coming told him , that though he were a good Prince of himself , yet for the injustice and oppression of his inferiour Ministers , his Empire should be taken from him . The Secretary counsell'd him to embrace true Religion , affirming that for lack thereof , his Officers were so corrupt . The Emperour seem'd to be much mov'd , and to intend what was perswaded him . But a few daies after , the other Secretary , a Russian , came to him with a drawn Sword ; of which the Emperour made slight at first ; but he after bold words assaulted him , strait seconded by other Conspiratours crying liberty . Gilbert with many of the Guard oversuddenly surpris'd retreated to Coluga a Town which they fortify'd ; most of the other Strangers were massacr'd , except the English , whose mediation sav'd also Buchinskoy . Shusky who succeeded him reports in a Letter to King Iames otherwise of him ; that his right name was Gryshca the Son of Boughdan ; that to escape punishment for Villanies done , he turn'd Fryar , and fell at last to the Black art ; and fearing that the Metropolitan intended therefore to imprison him , fled into Lettow ; where by counsel of Sigismund the Poland King , he began to call himself Demetry of Ouglitts ; and by many Libels and Spies privily sent into Mosco , gave out the same ; that many Letters and Messengers thereupon were sent from Boris into Poland , and from the Patriarch , to acquaint them who the Runnagate was ; but the Polanders , giving them no credit , furnish't him the more with Arms and Money , notwithstanding the League ; and sent the Palatine Sandamersko and other Lords to accompany him into Russia , gaining also a Prince of the Crim Tartars to his aide ; that the Army of Boris hearing of his sudden death , yielded to this Gryshca , who taking to wife the Daughter of Sandamersko , attempted to root out the Russian Clergy , and to bring in the Romish Religion , for which purpose many Jesuits came along with him . Whereupon Shusky with the Nobles and Metropolitans conspiring against him , in half a year gather'd all the Forces of Moscovia , and surprising him found in writing under his own hand all these his Intentions ; Letters also from the Pope and Cardinals to the same effect , not onely to set up the Religion of Rome , but to force it upon all , with death to them that refus'd . Vasily Evanowich Shusky after the slaughter of Demetry or Gryshca was elected Emperour ; having not long before been at the Block for reporting to have seen the true Demetrius dead and buried ; but Gryshca not onely recall'd him , but advanc'd him , to be the instrument of his own ruine . He was then about the age of 50 ; nobly descended , never married , of great wisedom reputed , a favourer of the English ; for he sav'd them from ritling in the former Tumults . Some say he modestly refus'd the Crown , till by lot four times together it fell to him ; yet after that , growing jealous of his Title , remov'd by Poyson , and other means all the Nobles that were like to stand his Rivals ; and is said to have consulted with Witches of the Samoeds , Lappians and Tartarians , about the same fears ; and being warn'd of one Michalowich , to have put to death three of that name ; yet a fourth was reserv'd by fate to succeed him ; being then a Youth attendant in the Court , one of those that held the golden Axes , and least suspected . But before that time he also was supplanted by another reviving Demetrius brought in by the Poles ; whose counterfeited Hand , and strange relating of privatest Circumstances had almost deceiv'd Gilbert himself ; had not their persons been utterly unlike ; but Gryshca's Wife so far believ'd him for her Husband , as to receive him to her Bed. Shusky besieg'd in his Castle of Mosco , was adventrously supply'd with some Powder and Ammunition by the English ; and with 2000 French , English and Scots , with other Forces from Charles King of Sweden . The English after many miseries of cold , and hunger and assaults by the way , deserted by the French , yielded most of them to the Pole , neer Smolensko , and serv'd him against the Russ. Mean while this second Demetrius being now rejected by the Poles , with those Russians that sided with him laid siege to Mosco : Zolkiewsky for Sigismund King of Poland Beleaguers on the other side with forty thousand Men ; whereof 1500 English , Scotch , and French. Shusky despairing success betakes him to a Monastery ; but with the City is yielded to the Pole ; who turns now his force against the Counterfeit Demetrius ; he seeking to fly is by a Tartar slain in his Camp. Smolensko held out a siege of two years , then surrender'd . Shusky the Emperour carried away into Poland , there ended miserably in prison . But before his departure out of Muscovy the Polanders in his name sending for the chief Nobility as to a last farewell , cause them to be entertain'd in a secret place , and there dispatch'd : by this means the easier to subdue the People . Yet the Poles were starv'd at length out of those Places in Mosco which they had fortify'd . Wherein the Russians who besieg'd them , found , as is reported , 60 Barrels of Man's Flesh powder'd , being the Bodies of such as dy'd among them , or were slain in fight . After which the Empire of Russia broke to pieces , the prey of such as could catch , every one naming himself , and striving to be accounted that Demetrius of Ouglitts . Some chose Vladislaus King Sigismund's Son , but he not accepting , they fell to a popular Government ; killing all the Nobles under pretence of favouring the Poles . Some overtures of receiving them were made , as some say , to King Iames , and Sir Iohn Meric , and Sir William Russel imploy'd therein . Thus Russia remaining in this confusion , it happen'd that a mean Man , a Butcher dwelling in the North about Duina , inveying against the baseness of their Nobility , and the corruption of Officers , uttered words , that if they would but choose a faithfull Treasurer to pay well the Souldiers , and a good General ( naming one Pozarsky a poor Gentleman , who after good service done liv'd not far off retir'd and neglected ; ) that then he doubted not to drive out the Poles . The People assent , and choose that General ; the Butcher they make their Treasurer who both so well discharg'd their Places , that with an Army soon gather'd they raise the siege of Mosco , which the Polanders had renew'd ; and with Boris Licin another great Souldier of that Countrey fall into consultation about the choise of an Emperour , and chose at last Michalowich , or Michael Pheodorowich , the fatal Youth , whose name Shusky so fear'd . Michael Pheodorowich thus elected by the valour of Pozarsky and Boris Licin , made them both Generals of his Forces , joyning with them another great Commander of the Cossacks whose aid had much befriended him ; the Butcher also was made a Counselour of State. Finally a Peace was made up between the Russians and the Poles ; and that partly by the mediation of King Iames. CHAP. V. The first discovery of Russia by the North-east , 1553 with the English Embassies , and Entertainments at that Court , untill the Year 1604. THE discovery of Russia by the northern Ocean , made first , of any Nation that we know , by English men , might have seem'd an enterprise almost heroick ; if any higher end than the excessive love of Gain and Traffick , had animated the design . Nevertheless that in regard that many things not unprofitable to the knowledge of Nature , and other Observations are hereby come to light , as good events ofttimes arise from evil occasions , it will not be the worst labour to relate briefly the beginning , and prosecution of this adventurous Voiage ; untill it became at last a familiar Passage . When our Merchants perceiv'd the Commodities of England to be in small request abroad , and foreign Merchandize to grow higher in esteem and value than before , they began to think with themselves how this might be remedied . And seeing how the Spaniards and Portugals had encreas'd their Wealth by discovery of new Trades and Countries , they resolv'd upon some new and strange Navigation . At the same time Sebastian Chabota , a man for the knowledge of Sea-affairs much renown'd in those daies , happen'd to be in London . With him first they consult ; and by his advice conclude to furnish out three Ships for the search and discovery of the northern parts . And having heard that a certain Worm is bred in that Ocean , which many times eateth through the strongest Oak , they contrive to cover some part of the Keel of those Ships with thin sheets of Lead ; and victual them for 18 months ; allowing equally to their journey their stay , and their return . Arms also they provide and store of Munition , with sufficient Captains and Governours for so great an enterprise . To which among many , and some void of experience that offer'd themselves , Sir Hugh Willowby a valiant Gentleman earnestly requested to have the charge . Of whom before all others both for his goodly personage , and singular skill in the services of War , they made choise to be Admiral ; and of Richard Chancelor , a man greatly esteem'd for his skill , to be chief Pilot. This man was brought up by Mr. Henry Sidney , afterwards Deputy of Ireland , who coming where the Adventurers were gather'd together ; though then a young man , with a grave and eloquent Speech commended Chancelor unto them . After this , they omitted no enquiry after any person that might inform them concerning those north-easterly parts to which the Voiage tended ; and two Tartarians then of the King 's Stable were sent for ; but they were able to answer nothing to purpose . So after much debate it was concluded that by the 20 th of May the Ships should depart . Being come near Greenwich where the Court then lay , presently the Courtiers came running out , the Privy Council at the Windows , the rest on the Towers and Battlements . The Mariners all apparell'd in Watchet , or sky-coloured Cloth , discharge their Ordnance ; the noise whereof , and of the People shouting is answer'd from the Hills and Waters with as loud an Echo . Onely the good King Edward then sick beheld not this sight , but dy'd soon after . From hence putting into Harwich , they staid long and lost much time . At length passing by Shetland , they kenn'd a far off Aegelands , being an innumerable sort of Islands call'd Rost Islands in 66 degrees . Thence to Lofoot in 68. to Seinam in 70 degrees ; these Islands belong all to the Crown of Denmark . Whence departing Sir Hugh Willowby set out his Flag by which he call'd together the chief men of his other Ships to counsel ; where they conclude , in case they happen'd to be scatter'd by Tempest , that Wardhouse a noted Haven in Finmark be the appointed place of their meeting . The very same day after noon so great a Tempest arose , that the Ships were some driv'n one way , some another in great peril . The General with his loudest voice call'd to Chancelor not to be far from him ; but in vain , for the admiral sayling much better than his Ship , and bearing all her Sayles was carried with great swiftness soon out of sight ; but before that , the Ship-boat striking against her Ship was overwhelmed in view of the Bonaventure whereof Chancelor was Captain . The third Ship also in the same Storm was lost . But Sir Hugh Willowby escaping that Storm , and wandring on those desolate Seas till the 18 th of September put into a Haven where they had Weather as in the depth of Winter ; and there determining to abide till Spring , sent out three men southwest to find Inhabitants ; who journy'd three daies but found none ; then other three went westward four daies journey , and lastly three southeast three daies ; but they all returning without news of People , or any sign of Habitation , Sir Hugh with the company of his two Ships abode there till Ianuary , as appears by a Will since found in one of the Ships ; but then perish'd all with cold . This River or Haven was Arzina in Lapland neer to Kegor , where they were found dead the year after by certain Russian Fishermen . Whereof the English Agent at Mosco having notice , sent and recover'd the Ships with the dead Bodies and most of the Goods , and sent them for England ; but the Ships being unstanch , as is suppos'd , by their two years wintring in Lapland , sunk by the way with their Dead , and them also that brought them . But now Chancelor with his Ship and Company thus left , shap'd his course to Wardhouse , the place agreed on to expect the rest ; where having staid 7 daies without tydings of them , he resolves at length to hold on his Voiage ; and sayl'd so far till he found no night , but continual day and Sun cleerly shining on that huge and vast Sea for certain daies . At length they enter into a great Bay , nam'd , as they knew after , from Saint Nicholas ; and spying a Fisherboat , made after him to know what People they were . The Fishermen amaz'd with the greatness of his Ship , to them a strange and new sight , sought to fly ; but overtak'n , in great fear they prostrate themselves , and offer to kiss his Feet ; but he raysing them up with all signes and gestures of courtesie , sought to win their friendship . They no sooner dismist , but spread abroad the arrival of a strange Nation , whose humanity they spake of with great affection ; whereupon the People running together , with like return of all courteous usage receive them ; offering them Victuals freely ; nor refusing to traffick , but for a loyal Custom which bound them from that , without first the consent had of their King. After mutual demands of each other's Nation they found themselves to be in Russia where Iuan Vasiliwich at that time reign'd Emperour . To whom privily the Governour of that place sending notice of the strange Guests that were arriv'd , held in the mean while our Men in what suspence he could . The Emperour well pleas'd with so unexpected a Message , invites them to his Court , offring them Post-horses at his own charge , or if the journey seem'd overlong , that they might freely traffick where they were . But ' ere this Messenger could return , having lost his way , the Muscovites themselves , loath that our men should depart which they made shew to doe , furnish't them with Guides and other Conveniences to bring them to their King's presence . Chancelor had now gon more than half his journey , when the Sled man sent to Court meets him on the way ; delivers him the Emperour's Letters ; which when the Russes understood , so willing they were to obey the Contents thereof , that they quarrell'd and strove who should have the preferment to put his Horses to the Sled . So after a long and troublesome journey of 1500 miles he arriv'd at Mosco . After he had remain'd in the City about 12 daies , a Messenger was sent to bring them to the King's House . Being enter'd within the Court Gates , and brought into an outward Chamber , they beheld there a very honourable company to the number of a hunder'd sitting all apparell'd in Cloth of gold down to their Ancles : next conducted to the Chamber of presence , there sate the Emperour on a lofty and very royal Throne ; on his Head a Diadem of gold , his Robe all of Goldsmiths work , in his Hand a chrystal Sceptre garnish'd and beset with precious Stones ; no less was his Countenance full of majesty . Beside him stood his chief Secretary ; on his other side the great Commander of silence , both in Cloth of gold ; then sate his Council of 150 round about on high Seats , clad all as richly . Chancelor nothing abash'd made his obeysance to the Emperour after the English manner . The Emperour having taken , and read his Letters , after some enquiry of King Edward's Health , invited them to dinner , and till then dismiss'd them . But before dismission the Secretary presented their Present bareheaded ; till which time they were all cover'd ; and before admittance our men had charge not to speak , but when the Emperour demanded ought . Having sat two hours in the Secretary's Chamber , they were at length call'd in to dinner ; where the Emperour was set at Table , now in a Robe of silver , and another Crown on his Head. This place was call'd the golden Palace , but without cause , for the English men had seen many fairer ; round about the room , but at distance , were other long Tables ; in the midst a Cupboard of huge and massy goblets , and other Vessels of gold and silver ; among the rest four great Flagons nigh two yards high , wrought in the top with devices of Towers and Dragons heads . The Guests ascended to their Tables by three steps ; all apparell'd in Linnen , and that lin'd with rich Furrs . The Messes came in without order , but all in Chargers of gold , both to the Emperour , and to the rest that din'd there , which were two hundred persons ; on every Board also were set Cups of gold without number . The Servitors one hundred and forty were likewise array'd in gold , and waited with Caps on their heads . They that are in high favour sit on the same Bench with the Emperour , but far off . Before Meat came in , according to the custom of their Kings , he sent to every Guest a slice of Bread ; whom the Officer naming saith thus , Iohn Basiliwich Emperour of Russ , &c. doth reward thee with Bread , at which words all men stand up . Then were Swans in several pieces serv'd in , each piece in a several Dish , which the great Duke sends about as the Bread , and so likewise the Drink . In dinner time he twice chang'd his Crown , his Waiters thrice their Apparel ; to whom the Emperour in like manner gives both Bread and Drink with his own hands ; which they say is done to the intent that he may perfectly know his own Houshold ; and indeed when dinner was done , he call'd his Nobles every one before him by name ; and by this time Candles were brought in , for it grew dark ; and the English departed to their Lodgings from dinner , an hour within night . In the Year 1555. Chancelor made another voiage to this Place with Letters from Queen Mary ; had a House in Mosco , and Diet appointed him ; and was soon admitted to the Emperour's presence in a large room spread with Carpets ; at his entring and salutation all stood up , the Emperour onely sitting , except when the Queen's name was read , or spoken ; for then he himself would rise : at dinner he sate bareheaded ; his Crown and rich Cap standing on a Pinacle by . Chancelor returning for England , Osep Napea Governour of Wologda came in his Ship Ambassadour from the Russe ; but suffering shipwrack in Pettislego a Bay in Scotland , Chancelor who took more care to save the Ambassadour than himself was drown'd , the Ship rifled , and most of her lading made booty by the People thereabout . In the Year 1557. Osep Napea returned into his Countrey with Antony Ienkinson who had the command of four tall Ships . He reports of a Whirlpool between the Rost Islands and Lofoot call'd Malestrand ; which from half ebb till half flood is heard to make so terrible a noise , as shakes the Door-rings of Houses in those Islands ten mile off ; Whales that come within the Current thereof make a pittifull cry ; Trees carried in and cast out again have the ends and boughs of them so beaten , as they seem like the stalks of bruized Hemp. About Zeinam they saw many Whales very monstrous hard by their Ships ; whereof some by estimation sixty foot long ; they roard hideously , it being then the time of their engendring . At Wardhouse , he saith , the Cattel are fed with Fish. Coming to Mosco , he found the Emperour sitting aloft in a Chair of state , richly crown'd , a Staff of gold in his hand wrought with costly stone . Distant from him sate his Brother , and a Youth the Emperour's Son of Casan whom the Russ had conquer'd ; there din'd with him diverse Ambassadours , Christian and Heathen , diversely apparell'd ; his Brother with some of the chief Nobles sate with him at Table : the Guests were in all six hundred . In dinner time came in six Musicians ; and standing in the midst , sung three several times , but with little or no delight to our men ; there din'd at the same time in other Halls two thousand Tartars who came to serve the Duke in his Wars . The English were set at a small Table by themselves direct before the Emperour ; who sent them diverse Bowles of Wine and Meath and many Dishes from his own hand : the Messes were but mean , but the change of Wines and several Meaths were wonderfull . As oft as they din'd with the Emperour , he sent for them in the Morning , and invited them with his own mouth . On Christmass day being invited , they had for other provision as before ; but for store of gold and silver Plate excessive ; among which were twelve Barrels of silver , hoop'd with fine gold containing twelve gallons apiece . 1560. Was the first English traffick to the Narve in Livonia , till then conceal'd by Danskers and Lubeckers . 1561. The same Antony Ienkinson made another voiage to Mosco ; and arriv'd while the Emperour was celebrating his marriage with a Circassian Lady ; during which time the City Gates for three daies were kept shut ; and all men whatsoever straitly commanded to keep within their Houses ; except some of his Houshold ; the cause whereof is not known . 1566. He made again the same voiage ; which now men usually made in a month from London to Saint Nicholas with good Windes , being seven hundred and fifty leagues . 1568. Thomas Randolf , Esq went Embassadour to Muscovy , from Queen Elizabeth ; and in his passage by Sea met nothing remarkable save great store of Whales , whom they might see engendring together , and the Sperma-ceti swimming on the Water . At Colmogro he was met by a Gentleman from the Emperour , at whose charge he was conducted to Mosco : but met there by no man ; not so much as the English ; lodg'd in a fair House built for Ambassadours ; but there confin'd upon some suspicion which the Emperour had conceav'd ; sent for at length after seventeen weeks delay , was fain to ride thither on a borrow'd Horse , his men on foot . In a Chamber before the presence were sitting about three hundred Persons , all in rich Robes taken out of the Emperour's Wardrobe for that day ; they sate on three ranks of Benches , rather for shew than that the Persons were of honour ; being Merchants , and other mean Inhabitants . The Ambassadour saluted them , but by them unsaluted pass'd on with his Head cover'd . At the Presence door being receiv'd by two which had been his Guardians , and brought into the midst , he was there will'd to stand still , and speak his message from the Queen ; at whose name the Emperour stood up , and demanded her health : then giving the Ambassadour his Hand to kiss fell to many questions . The Present being deliver'd , which was a great silver Bowle curiously grav'n , the Emperour told him , he din'd not that day openly because of great Affairs ; but , saith he , I will send thee my Dinner , and augment thy Allowance . And so dismissing him , sent a Duke richly apparell'd soon after to his Lodging with fifty Persons each of them carrying Meat in silver Dishes cover'd ; which himself deliver'd into the Ambassadour's own hands tasting first of every Dish , and every sort of Drink ; that done , set him down with his Company , took part , and went not thence unrewarded . The Emperour sent back with this Ambassadour another of his own call'd Andrew Savin . 1571. Ienkinson made a third voiage ; but was staid long at Colmogro by reason of the Plague in those Parts ; at length had audience where the Court then was , near to Pereslave ; to which place the Emperour was return'd from his Swedish War with ill success : and Mosco the same year had been wholly burnt by the Crim ; in it the English House , and diverse English were smother'd in the Sellars , multitudes of People in the City perish'd , all that were young led captive with exceeding spoil . 1583. Iuan Basiliwich having the year before sent his Ambassadour Pheodor Andrewich about matters of Commerce , the Queen made choice of Sir Ierom Bowes , one of her houshold , to go into Russia ; who being attended with more than forty persons , and accompanied with the Russe returning home , arriv'd at St. Nicolas . The Dutch by this time had intruded into the Muscovy-Trade ; which by privilege long before had been granted solely to the English ; and had corrupted to their side Shalkan the Chancellor , with others of the great ones ; who so wrought , that a creature of their own was sent to meet Sir Ierom at Colmogro , and to offer him occasions of dislike : Until at Vologda he was receiv'd by another from the Emperour ; and at Yeraslave by a Duke well accompanied , who presented him with a Coach and ten Geldings . Two miles from Mosco met him four Gentlemen with Two hundred Horse , who after short salutation , told him what they had to say from the Emperour , willing him to alight , which the Ambassadour soon refus'd , unless they also lighted ; whereon they stood long debating ; at length agreed , great dispute follow'd , whose foot should first touch the ground . Their Message deliver'd , and then embracing , they conducted the Ambassador to a house at Mosco , built for him purposely . At his going to Court he and his followers honourably mounted and apparell'd , the Emperour's Guard were set on either side all the way about 6000 shot . At the Court-gate met him four Noblemen in Cloth of Gold , and rich Furr-Caps , embroider'd with Pearl and Stone ; then four others of greater degree , in which passage there stood along the Walls , and sate on Benches seven or eight hundred men in colour'd Sattins and Gold. At the Presence-dore met him the chief Herald , and with him all the great Officers of Court , who brought him where the Emperour sate : there were set by him three Crowns of Muscovy , Cazan and Astracan ; on each side stood two young Noblemen , costly apparell'd in White ; each of them had a broad Axe on his shoulder ; on the Benches round sate above a hundred Noblemen . Having giv'n the Ambassadour his hand to kiss , and enquir'd of the Queens Health , he will'd him to go sit in the place provided for him , nigh ten paces distant ; from thence to send him the Queens Letters and Present . Which the Ambassadour thinking not reasonable , step'd forward ; but the Chancellor meeting him , would have tak'n his Letters ; to whom the Ambassadour said , that the Queen had directed no Letters to him ; and so went on and deliver'd them to the Emperour 's own hands ; and after a short withdrawing into the Council-Chamber , where he had Conference with some of the Council , he was call'd in to dinner : about the midst whereof , the Emperour standing up , drank a deep Carouse to the Queens Health , and sent to the Ambassadour a great Bowl of Rhenish-Wine to pledge him . But at several times being call'd for to treat about Affairs , and not yielding ought beyond his Commission , the Emperour not wont to be gain-say'd , one day especially broke into passion , and with a stern countenance told him , he did not reckon the Queen to be his fellow ; for there are , quoth he , her betters . The Ambassadour not holding it his part , whatever danger might ensue , to hear any derogate from the Majesty of his Prince , with like courage and countenance told him , that the Queen was equal to any in Christendom who thought himself greatest ; and wanted not means to offend her Enemies whomsoever . Yea , quoth he , what saist thou of the French and Spanish Kings ? I hold her , quoth the Ambassadour , equal to either . Then what to the German Emperour ? Her Father , quoth he , had the Emperour in his pay . This answer mislik'd the Duke so far , as that he told him , were he not an Ambassadour , he would throw him out of doors . You may , said the Ambassadour , doe your will , for I am now fast in your Countrey ; but the Queen I doubt not will know how to be reveng'd of any injury offer'd to her Ambassadour . Whereat the Emperour in great sudden bid him get home ; and he with no more reverence than such usage requir'd , saluted the Emperour , and went his way . Notwithstanding this , the Muscovite , soon as his mood left him , spake to them that stood by , many praises of the Ambassadour , wishing he had such a Servant , and presently after sent his chief Secretary to tell him that whatever had pass'd in words , yet for his great respect to the Queen , he would shortly after dispatch him with honour and full contentment , and in the mean while he much enlarg'd his entertainment . He also desir'd that the Points of our Religion might be set down , and caus'd them to be read to his Nobility with much approbation . And as the year before he had sought in marriage the Lady Mary Hastings , which took not effect , the Lady and her Friends excusing it , he now again renu'd the motion to take to wife some one of the Queen's Kinswomen either by sending an Embassage , or going himself with his Treasure into England . Now happy was that Nobleman whom Sir Ierom Bowes in publick favour'd ; unhappy they who had oppos'd him : for the Emperour , had beaten Shalkan the Chancelour very grievously for that cause , and threatn'd not to leave one of his race alive . But the Emperour dying soon after of a Surfeit , Shalkan to whom then almost the whole Government was committed , caus'd the Ambassadour to remain close Prisoner in his House nine weeks . Being sent for at length to have his dispatch , and slightly enough conducted to the Council Chamber , he was told by Shalkan that this Emperour would condescend to no other agreements than were between his Father and the Queen before his coming : and so disarming both him and his Company , brought them to the Emperour with many affronts in their passage , for which there was no help but patience . The Emperour saying but over what the Chancelour had said before , offer'd him a Letter for the Queen : which the Ambassadour , knowing it contain'd nothing to the purpose of his Embassy , refus'd , till he saw his danger grow too great ; nor was he suffer'd to reply , or have his Interpreter . Shalkan sent him word that now the English Emperour was dead ; and hasten'd his departure , but with so many disgraces put upon him , as made him fear some mischief in his journey to the Sea ; having onely one mean Gentleman sent with him to be his Convoy ; he commanded the English Merchants in the Queen's name to accompany him , but such was his danger , that they durst not . So arming himself and his Followers in the best wise he could , against any outrage , he at length recover'd the Shoar of Saint Nicholas . Where he now resolv'd to send them back by his Conduct some of the affronts which he had receiv'd . Ready therefore to take Ship , he causes three or four of his valientest and discreetest men to take the Emperour's Letter , and disgracefull Present , and to deliver it , or leave it at the Lodging of his Convoy , which they safely did ; though follow'd with a great Tumult of such as would have forc'd them to take it back . 1584. At the Coronation of Pheodor the Emperour ▪ Ierom Horsey being then Agent in Russia , and call'd for to court with one Iohn de Wale a Merchant of the Netherlands and a Subject of Spain , some of the Nobles would have preferr'd the Fleming before the English. But to that our Agent would in no case agree , saying he would rather have his Leggs cut off by the Knees , then bring his present in course after a Subject of Spain . The Emperour and Prince Boris perceiving the controversy , gave order to admit Horsey first : who was dismiss'd with large Promises , and seventy Messes with three Carts of several Meath sent after him . 1588. Dr. Giles Fletcher went Ambassadour from the Queen to Pheodor then Emperour ; whose Relations being judicious and exact are best red entirely by themselves . This Emperour upon report of the great learning of Iohn Dee the Mathematician invited him to Mosco with offer of two thousand pound a year , and from Prince Boris one thousand Marks ; to have his Provision from the Emperour's Table , to be honourably receiv'd , and accounted as one of the chief men in the Land. All which d ee accepted not . 1604. Sir Thomas Smith was sent Ambassadour from King Iames to Boris then Emperour ; and staid some daies at a place five miles from Mosco till he was honourably receiv'd into the City ; met on horseback by many thousands of Gentlemen and Nobles on both sides the way ; where the Ambassadour alighting from his Coach and mounted on his Horse , rode with his Trumpets sounding before him ; till a Gentleman of the Emperour 's Stable brought him a Gennet gorgeously trapt with gold , pearl and stone , especially with a great Chain of plated gold about his Neck , and Horses richly adorn'd for his Followrs . Then came three great Noblemen with an Interpreter offring a Speech ; but the Ambassadour deeming it to be ceremony , with a brief Complement found means to put it by . Thus alighting all , they saluted , and gave hands mutually . Those three after a tedious preamble of the Emperour's Title thrice repeated brought a several Complement of three words apiece , as namely , the first , to know how the King did , the next , how the Ambassadour , the third , that there was a fair House provided him . Then on they went on either hand of the Ambassadour , and about six thousand Gallants behind them ; still met within the City by more of greater quality to the very Gate of his lodging : where fifty Gunners were his daily Guard both at home and abroad . The Prestaves or Gentlemen assign'd to have the care of his entertainment , were earnest to have had the Ambassadour's Speech and Message given them in writing , that the Interpreter , as they pretended , might the better translate it ; but he admonish'd them of their foolish demand . On the day of his audience other Gennets were sent him and his Attendants to ride on , and two white Palfreys to draw a rich Chariot , which was parcel of the Present ; the rest whereof was carried by his Followers through a lane of the Emperour's Guard ; many Messengers posting up and down the while , till they came through the great Castle , to the uttermost Court gate . There met by a great Duke they were brought up stairs through a Stone-gallery , where stood on each hand many in fair Coats of Persian Stuff , Velvet and Damask . The Ambassadour by two other Counselours being led into the presence , after his obeysance done , was to stay and hear again the long Title repeated ; then the particular Presents ; and so deliver'd as much of his Embassage as was then requisite . After which the Emperour arising from his Throne demandeth of the King's health ; so did the young Prince . The Ambassadour then deliver'd his Letters into the Emperour's own hand , though the Chancelour offer'd to have taken them . He bore the Majesty of a mighty Emperour ; his Crown and Sceptre of pure gold , a Collar of Pearls about his Neck , his Garment of crimson Velvet embroider'd with precious stone and gold . On his right Side stood a fair Globe of beaten gold on a Pyramis with a Cross upon it ● to which , before he spake , turning a little he crost himself . Not much less in splendour on another Throne sate the Prince . By the Emperour stood two Noblemen in Cloth of silver , high Caps of black Furr , and Chains of gold hanging to their Feet ; on their Shoulders two Poleaxes of gold ; and two of silver by the Prince ; the ground was all cover'd with Arras or Tapistry-Dismist , and brought in again to dinner they saw the Emperour and his Son seated in state , ready to dine ; each with a Skull of Pearl on their bare Heads , their Vestments chang'd . In the midst of this Hall seem'd to stand a Pillar heap'd round to a great height with massy Plate curiously wrought with Beasts , Fishes and Fowl. The Emperour's Table was serv'd with two hundred Noblemen in Coats of gold ; the Princes Table with young Dukes of Casan , Astracan , Siberia , Tartaria and Circassia . The Emperour sent from his Table to the Ambassadour , thirty Dishes of Meat , to each a Loaf of extraordinary fine Bread. Then follow'd a number more of strange and rare Dishes ●il'd up by half dozens , with boyl'd , roast and bak't , most part of them besawc'd with Garlick and Onions . In midst of dinner calling the Ambassadour up to him he drank the King's health , who receiving it from his hand , return'd to his place , and in the same Cup being of fair Chrystal pledg'd it with all his Company . After dinner they were call'd up to drink of excellent and strong Meath from the Emperour's hand ; of which when many did but sip , he urg'd it not ; saying he was best pleas'd with what was most for their health . Yet after that , the same day he sent a great and glorious Duke , one of them that held the golden Poleax , with his Retinue , and sundry sorts of Meath to drink merrily with the Ambassadour , which some of the English did , untill the Duke and his Followers light-headed , but well rewarded with thirty yards of Cloth of gold , and two standing Cups , departed . At second audience the Ambassadour had like reception as before : and being dismiss'd had dinner sent after him with three hundred several Dishes of Fish , it being Lent , of such strangeness , greatness and goodness as scarce would be credible to report . The Ambassadour departing was brought a mile out of the City with like honour as he was first met ; where lighting from the Emperour's Sled , he took him to his Coach , made fast upon a Sled ; the rest to their Sleds an easy and pleasant passage . Names of the Authours from whence these Relations have been taken ; being all either Eye-witnesses , or immediate Relaters from such as were . THE Iournal of Sir Hugh Willowby . Discourse of Richard Chancelor . Another of Clement Adams taken from the mouth of Chancelor . Notes of Richard Johnson . Servant to Chancelor . The Protonotaries Register . Two Letters of Mr. Hen. Lane. The several Voiages of Jenkinson . Southam and Sparks . The Iournal of Randolf the Embass. Another of Sir Jerom Bowes . The Coronation of Pheodor written by Jerom Horsey . Gourdon of Hull 's Voiage to Pechora . The Voiage of William Pursglove , to Pechora . Of Josias Logan . Hessel Gerardus , out of Purchas , part 3. l. 3. Russian Relations in Purch . 797. ibid. 806. ibid. The Embassage of Sir Thomas Smith . Papers of Mr. Hackluit . Jansonius . The End. Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A50886-e320 The North and East , Hack. 251. Hack. vo . 1. 248. Saint Nicholas , Hack. 376. Rose Island ▪ Hack. 365. Archangel . Duina . Pinega . Lampas , 284. Candinos , Colgoieve , Pur. par . 3. 533. Pustozera , ibid. Purc . Purc . 549. 545. 551. Riphaean Mountains . From Saint Nicholas to Mosco . Arkania , 546 , 542. Colmogro , Hack. 376. Vstiug . Hack. 312. Wologda . Yeraslave . Hack. 377. 248. 251. 335. Mosco . 313. South-east . Hack. 325. 334. West . Novogrod . 365. Governm . Hac . 240. Hac . 309. Revenues . Hac . 314. Forces . Hac . 1239. 250. Hac . 314. 250. 250. Hac . 316. Religion . Hac . 253. 242. 321. 320. 318. 320 , 254. Marriages . Hac . 322. 314. Burial . 242 , 254 , 323. Manners . 241 , 314. 323. Habit. 239. Travailing . 314. Beasts . 252. Purch . part . 3. 543 , 540. Molgomsay . 524. 526. 526 , 527. Manners of the Samoeds . 522 , 555. 548. Pur. par . 3. 527. Ienissey . 527. 551. 546. 527. Manners . Ibid. 528. 543. 546. 797. 799. 806. Hac . vol. 1. 221. 573. 988. 1237. 1514. Horsey's Observations . 1571. 1584. Hac . vol. 1. 466. Horsey . 1604. Pur. par . 3. 750. Pur. par . 3. 764. 1606. Purch . part . 3. 769 , &c. 1609. 779. 1612. Purch . part . 3. 790. 1613. Hac . vol. 1. 243. 234. Hac . 235. Hac . 464. Hac . 258. 263. 465. 286. 310 , &c. 317. 311. 373. Hac . vol. 1. 458. 508. 
A12545	----	Sir Thomas Smithes voiage and entertainment in Rushia With the tragicall ends of two emperors, and one empresse, within one moneth during his being there: and the miraculous preseruation of the now raigning emperor, esteemed dead for 18. yeares. Smith, Thomas, Sir, 1558?-1625. 1605 Approx. 142 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 51 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2006-06 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A12545 STC 22869 ESTC S111002 99846437 99846437 11404 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. A12545) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 11404) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1084:15) Sir Thomas Smithes voiage and entertainment in Rushia With the tragicall ends of two emperors, and one empresse, within one moneth during his being there: and the miraculous preseruation of the now raigning emperor, esteemed dead for 18. yeares. Smith, Thomas, Sir, 1558?-1625. [96] p. [By W. White and W. Jaggard] for Nathanyell Butter, Printed at London : 1605. White printed quires I through ¹M; Jaggard the rest (STC and addendum)). Signatures: A⁴ C-M⁴ ² M⁴. Running title reads: Sir Thomas Smiths voyage into Rushia. The last leaf is blank. Reproduction of the original in the Bodleian 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. 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Soviet Union -- Social life and customs -- Early works to 1800. 2005-04 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-09 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2006-03 Ali Jakobson Sampled and proofread 2006-03 Ali Jakobson Text and markup reviewed and edited 2006-04 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion SIR Thomas Smithes VOIAGE and Entertainment in Rushia . With the tragicall ends of two EMPERORS , and one Empresse , within one Moneth during his being there : And the miraculous preseruation of the now raigning EMPEROR , esteemed dead for 18. yeares . Si quid nouisti rectius istis Candidus impertié si non , His vtere mecum . Printed at London for Nathanyell Butter . 1605. To the Reader . REader , the discourses of this voyage ( at the comming home of the Gentleman that was chiefe in it and his company into England ) affoorded such pleasure to the hearers , by reason the accidents were strange and Nouell , that many way-laid the Nevves , and vvere gladde to make any booty of it to delight themselues , by vvhich meanes , that which of it selfe being knit together was beautifull , could not chuse but shevv vilde , beeing so torne in peeces . So that the itching fingers of gain laid hold vpon it , and had like to haue sent it into the world lame , and dismembred . Some that picke vp the crums of such feasts , had scrapt togither many percels of this Rushian commoditie , so that their heads being gotten vvith child of a Bastard , there was no remedy but they must be deliuered in Paules Church-yard . But I taking the truth from the mouths of diuers gentlemen that vvent in the Iourney , and hauing som good notes bestovved vpon me in vvriting , vvrought them into this body , because neither thou shouldst be abused with false reports , nor the Voyage receiue slaunder . I have done this vvithout consent either of Sir Tho. himselfe , or of those gentlemen my friends that deliuered it vnto me : So that if I offend , it is Error Amoris to my Countrey , not Amor erroris to do any man wronge . Read and like , for much is in it vvorthy obseruation . Farevvell . Syr Thomas Smiths Voyage into Rushia . TRaffike is the golden chain concatenation , that tyes kingdoms together in mutuall Amitie : It is the very Cement that conioynes the harts , the handes , yea the soules of Nations different in shapes , disagreeing in manners , in speech , in religion , with Neves not to be broken . The tongue of which harmony sounding sweetest in the eares of those Princes , who loue the Palme and Oliue tree ensignes of Peace , better than the knotted Oake , ( Emblem of Warre . ) Allude the Maiesty of England ( our Royall Soueraigne King Iames ) to allowe all those ports and Hauens to stande still open , which ( in the dayes of his deere late deceased sister ) nourished entercourse and negotiation betweene this kingdome and the Rushian . For his princely confirmation whereof , congratulations formerly interchangably passing betwixt his maiesty and the Emperour of Rushia , through the hands of Maister Iohn Mericke now agent there , Sir Tho. Smith knight , ( a religious and discreet Gentleman ) was thought fit to be chosen and commanded by his Maiestie , to go vpon an Embassie thither : which ( according to duty ) he entertained : making such speedy preparation for the iourney , as the shortnesse of time squred out vnto him , could minister . All things therefore being ripe for his departure , sir Tho. accompanied with sir Thomas Challenor , and S. William Wray knights , diuers Gent. and his own attendants , repaired to the Court vppon the tenth of Iune 1604. then lying at Greenwich , where ( by the right Hon. the Earle of Salsbury ) he was brought to his Maiesties presence : who in very gracious language demaunded of sir Thomas the length of the voyage , the time of his returne , the nature of the Climate , with some other questions touching the countrey : vnto all which sir Thomas aunswered accordingly . But the king wondring that the detention there would be so long , ( for Sir Thomas said it would be full xv . moneths , by reason of the winters cruelty , whose Frosts were so extream , that the seas were not at those times Nauigable ) pleasantly said , It seemes then that Sir Thomas goes from the Sun : vpon which the right Hon. the Earle of Northampton standing by replyed , He must needes go from the Sunne departing from his resplendant Ma. At which the king smiled , giuing sir Thomas his hand to kisse , and bestowing the like grace vpon all the Gentlem. that were for the voyage . The next day S. Thomas with some of his followers , tooke his leaue of the Prince : and then being fully furnished with his Commission , and all other instructions from the Ea. of Salsbury at White-hall , the day following , being the 12. of Iune , about ten a clocke , the wind sitting fayr , all the ships fel down to Graues-end , whether S. Tho. came , accompanied with sir Valentine Knightly , sir Fran. Cherry , many merchants , &c. staying there til next morning . Then after conference with the Gent. Mer. and maisters of ships about his departure : sir Thomas calling all his followers about him , thus spake . GEntlemen , and the rest who haue resolued to acompany and attend me in this Ambassage from his Excellent Maiesty to the Emperor of Rushia , &c. I haue conferred with the Merchants , maisters of ships & others , vpon the stay or speed of our voyage , finding the wind fauorable , all our company as I think heere , & no importune busines to stay vs , haue resolued to go on boord this present night , and so deliuer our selues as alvvaies into the protection of the Almighty : so now to his mercie in the mercilesse Seas , where vvee shall ( especiallie the vnexperienced , vvherof I presume to haue manie ) meet with a number of crosses the difference betvveen Land and Sea as of tvvo contrary elements : So that being of a contrary nature , I must giue you my knowledge herein , and the rather considering you are of seuerall prefermentes vnto mee , and consequently vnknown to one another . I desire you like christians and fellovv Brethren to loue and delight each in other , and expresse your loues in helping and cherishing in time of distresse , sicknes , or distemperature : so as if God please to laie some sick & others health : the strong to helpe the vveak , as fearing daily hee may fall into the like need . As often as it shall please God to send vs vveather that we may visite one another , I shall be glad to see you aboord my Shippe , vvhere happily you may be entertained vvith something your selues desire , and I vvill easily affoord . I shall take it an argument of your loues , your dayly ( if daily might be your visitations ) as he that shall esteeme you the best ghesse that I can long expect . For the preseruation of your owne healths , beware of drinking : for your profit , of Gaming : for your ease , of quarrelling : and for Gods glory of swearing . All which , oft-times Sea-company makes men subiect vnto . Surely there is no such remedy against these , as dayly , according to the Ship-custome , to serue God : presuming I haue none in my company otherwise minded or brought vppe . Thus armed , let vs in his name , who in his secret wisdome hath ordained vs to this voyage , begin vvith honest and iust minds that our successe may be prosperous , and our end glorious : protesting , I shall be best serued when God is most honoured , desiring nothing of any , but what befits my place , and his duty . Thus in the name of God let vs goe on Boord . The Ambas . led the way himselfe , going aborde the Iohn and Francis Admyrall , after him al his followers : hauing euerie man aboord , himselfe with some others went againe on shore , there taking little rest , for the time was spent in very speciall businesses with the Merchants , whoe stayed still about two in the morne . Then after a warning peece shot , and some little stay for the long boate , which vvas not come downe , wee hoysted our sayles vvith the rest of the ships ( in number foure ) and hauinge a gallant gale , we easily sternd the tide , hauing taken leaue of the small rudder , and novv trusting to the hopefull helme ( which God be thanked vvell guided vs , hauing for two daies and one night a good gale and faire : But the 15. daye of Iune , beyonde Nevvcastle , that night the winde seased , so as wee must bend our course Easterlie . In the night , wee left behind vs one of our ships , named the Minion , which with a side wind could not holde course with vs. Whereupon our Mayster came to the Ambassador to know his pleasure , whether he would staye or no , alledging withal , it was their custom to prick forwardest , and with euerie winde to make the best aduantage of their ships : But the Ambassador commanded him to tacke about , and stay til the Minion were come vp , which hee obeyed : And surelye the Ambas : herin shewed his great care and loue to the Gent. with the rest : for me thinketh it a great comfort on the Sea , to behold neighbor-ships , yea ( and if occasion should require ) it would proue wisdom and good discretion , when either the vvant of one ship , or that one ship might vnhappily for his fellowes , be diuersly lost or cast away , as is too often found to be true . But for Sea accidentes , it is not my purpose to make perticular relation , beeing neither pertinent to my course , nor to any a matter of much validity : but as if our Ambas . were againe in the Tovver of London , as he is in the ship : now tost , then becaulmed : in feare and hope within one moment , wher sometime God Neptune like a Prince , will haue his subiects know his force , and feele his rigor : where vvhen Fogges and mists appeare ( like stratagems and pollicies ) to make men imprisoned tremble , man then can see that he otherwise cannot see , danger in present deliuerance , deliuerance and helpe in present daunger . For ordinary policies are like Mount Lybanus fogges , then most palpable , when least discerned : but as God brought him out with much honor and praise , onely by the benefit of patience , clothed in Innocency , so shall I by the help of God , deliuer our selues safely at our Port and hanen , by the gaining of time out-running miserie : for the Sea is a miserable commonwealth to liue in , ( If without much patience ) where mens eies must euer be open to al dangers : and this is there a preseruation against all dangers , where men rest most in vnquietnes and stand safest , when the winde like Hu-an-cry , driues them forward for feare of worsse weather , but to them that loue the Sea , I wish helth , and my selfe euer to stande well on dry ground : to behold one of the 3. gallant spectacles in the world , A Ship vnder sayle , loming ( as they tearme it ) indeede like a Lyon pawing with his forfeet , heauing and setting , like a Musco Beare bayted with excellent English dogs . But the comming on boord of some Gent. and others to my L. ship , ( we being becalmed ) invites me to turne my best wit to bid them welcome . Who are so honourably intertained by the Ambas . as hauing of his perticular frends much , of his owne more , of the company of marchaunts most , and very bountifuly of either , inough for any ; did therewith feast them were invited at Graues-end , to be welcome about Shotland ; It shal be honor sufficient to the Ambas . and comfort inough to his folowers , that they neuer came , but they found him like a good hous-keeper at home , and like a bountifull sir , command them the best cheare . In a word , the Ambas . own and ordinarie praise shall ease mee of more labor in prouing it , al must confesse necessarily , which vvas this : That al the prouisions whatsoeuer ( yea his purse likewise ) was euery ones & no one , no not himselfe for all . But the wind riseth , & they refreshed with wine and vvind , are abord their owne ships . Thus they that came ( who as often as they could did com ) needed not depart til the weather whistled them thence : and surely on the sea , a faire gale is better than feasting , as where a mannes mind is as great as his stomach : nor can a man on the seas be alwaies so couragious ( though manie heroycal spirits seeme to breath there ) but the wind will coole him ( especially in danger ) if it blowe on the right side . Now being far entred the Northren Seas , I could here feed you : yea , make you a feast royall with little cost : and after that disport you excellent strangely , with Water-Tylts and Barryers : bringing in the Leuyathan with his Oystershel-armed shield , like greene , wilde and sauadge men , castinge out smoke to terifie the behoulders , obseruing their time and measure , like the M. of a daunsing school , indeed like a right Lo. roming and raunging without feare , to feare . The gallant Sea-fight betwixte the huge Whale , the Sword-fish , and the Thresher : Two against one , Rapyer and dagger against your two-hand-sworde : Or I might speake verye muche to little purpose of the STVRGEON , whose Rowes makes the Italians delightfull Caviare , of which this Nation makes the most and best of any . The Porpus , Belluga , Sharke , Seale , Grampas , Salmon , &c. But I feare too many whilst they haue gazed after them , haue bene made giddie , and others presuming to haue made profit of them , haue fed them : then , were it not vnkindlye and vnnaturall to feede you , with those creatures , that rather are satisfied with men , whereby it would proue a harde disgestion . B●sides , I might discourse the Witchcraft of the Seas ( as I may tearme it ) when one Ship shall be becalmed , and Diuers haue excellent gales or vndergoe the description of the Capes , Sandes , Shel●es , Islands , Rockes , Whirlepooles , &c. But these are for a strange language , wherein men may not blushe but Poetise : who in our Countrey are not so well ( so ill are our affections ) esteemed of , as Beastes , much lesse as Lordely Fishes , who swim and play aboue the Water , where and when they please : onely herein they are like them , they haue the world like a Sea , to wade and sport themselues in , and yet vnlike fishes , are often themselues drowned in their owne Ellements . But I am verye willingly drawne out of this fury of Makers , who yet certainly deserue much , especially remembring the curse the moste woorthy Knight of the Muses wisheth those do not honor them , ( as out of the vyolence of the salt Seas at any time ) principally now , after almost 40. daies tossing , and tumbling , being with a sweet dreame after a golden slumber , entred vppon the faire and pleasant Riuer of Dwnia , from which I suddainely awaked with the vnknowne language of a Pilate , sent from the Emperor to conduct my Lord vpon the Riuer : which is , ( or at least they thinke ) to vs it is a dangerous passage : which Pilate excused his no sooner comming for want of knowledge of the Ambassadors being so nie . But now come ( when to our Iourneys sickly certaine end we are so neere come ) howe thinke you , must he not be welcome ? I assure you fresh Water is a more excellent companion then your salte humoryst : and I shall loue fresh water-Souldiers for my Trauaile on the Seas , while I liue : wishinge , when euer I fight , to haue fresh water on my side to comfort me , which wanting I shal be more wo-be-don , then being in a wood , ( though in Rusland , or Leisland . The 22. of Iuly beeing come within a mile of Tharch-angell , we ankerd , whether came at 11. of the clocke in the night , a Gentleman ( Captain of 500. gunners , named Maxim Vrin : a man of good complement , and of indifferent stature and presence , ) aboard the Ambassadors shippe , being mette with two Gentlemen and others , he was brought into his Lordships Cabin , where after rehearsing the Emperours and Princes Title ( which is euer their custome , ) he declared to the Ambassador , that his L. and Maister and the young Prince , had sent him , to knowe of his Maiesties health of Englande , the Q. and Princes , which the Ambassador answeared vnto : then demaunded of his owne , and the Gent. The Ambassador , somewhat woondering what this Gent. should be ( considering former Ambassadors Entertainment ) presently was by him resolued with this , prosecuting his former speeche : That whereas the Emperor vnderstanding of the Ambassadors comming , to shewe his great loue to his Maiesty of England , the desire of peace and Amity , ( as with his deere and louing Sister Elizabeth of happy memory late Queene of England ) contrary to any custome of his Maiesties heeretofore , who neuer tooke knowledge thereafter , had sent him to bee his Prestaue , to prouide the Ambassadours house , and victuals , and to garde him from the Iniuries of a strange nation : desiring that his seruice therein might expresse his thankefulnes to his Ma. for so great an honour , and likewise be pleasing to the Ambassador . Both which to deserue , he would endeuor the best lay in his power . The Ambassador ( though somewhat be-woondered or gratiously preuented ) verye kindely and thankfully accepted of this truly honourable fauor : saying , It behooued two such great Princes to vse the best meanes for Amity and friendship . So the Prestaue banquetted as befitting his place , was dismissed that night , but yet before he went , came aboorde , the Ambassadors Shippe , the Agent Maister Iohn Mericke , diuers Marchants , and other English men to see his Lordship , as to welcome him to that Port of his desire : who after some houres discourse , priuately betwixt the Ambassador and the Agent , tasting of his wine and Beere , with halfe a score good peeces they were sent away . Truely herein , the extraordinary beginning was hope of a prosperous conclusion : for this was a fauor neuer manifested to any heretofore , who after their arriuall at the Castle , staide and that very vntowardly ) till a poste were dispatched , from the Gentleman or Gouernor of the Towne to the Musco , ( which is 1000. Myles , ) and his return with the Emperours further pleasure for his direction and warrant . The 23. of Iuly the Prestaue , the English Agent , Marchants and other , being come to bring the Ambassador with honor into his lodging , he withall the Gent. before him , and his Liueries before them , two and two together , accompanied as is aforesaid , landed at the Castle : in the road whereof , then beeing many English , French , and Dutch Ships , they discharged a mighty peale , ( or rather many peales of Ordinance . ) Thus the Ambassador came safely to his first lodging in Rushia . The Prestaue takinge a solemne leaue , went to see the Prouisions which were laide in before , to be good , as also to prouide necessarie lodginges , for diuers which were to bee lodged abroad , and others not as yet Landed , for it was 4. daies before all our Ships came vp . Here the Ambassador laie some fourteen dayes , or lesse , where in the meane time , there was demanded a particular note of the names of all the Ambassadors traine , fyrst of the Kings Gentlemen , ( which name not onely the Emperor , but the Great Turke , Persian & Moroco Princes do highly account of ) as indeed soothing their own greatnes therwith , and we who were his seruants , and highly graced by kissing the Princely hande of our royall K. meeting herein with any others , trauailing in the same kind : as also by our particular births , not beeing lesse ( so vnexpectedly required of vs ) did vnder-goe the name , as which we could not vvithout dishonor to the Ambassador , and disaduantage to our Being refuse , it being giuen by an Emperor , who should be in that kingdome so great as not to allow it , though he would ( which none could ) disproue ? Secondly , of the Ambassadors Gent , and thirdly , of al the rest that attended , which forthwith was deliuered to the Prestaue , and sent vp by him to the Emperor : the reasons hereof are , as may be gathered , to esteeme the state and honor of the Ambassador thereafter : also , to prouide accordingly for houses , horses , and other prouisions , and perhappes to learne thereby what names of great houses are amonge the kinges Gent. : as particularly now they did inquire after . Here , it pleased the English agent M. Iohn Mericke , ( truely a wise , honest and kinde Gent. ) to inuite all the Gentlemen to their house to dinner : whether he would haue vvillingly invited the Ambas . if hee might haue presumed thereupon , and of the fitnes , considering that as yet letters were not secondarilie come from the Emperor , for the gent. farther proceeding : whereby he woulde happily haue made a question there of ; as also for the Ambass . greatnes , ( the towne then so ouercharged with many Nations ) it could not be performed according to the respect ambassadors are vsed with there , nor perhaps would it be well agreeing to their more priuate fashion , who hold it greatest glory for greatest men , rather to be reported of , then seene , &c. But we were very bountifully feasted and as kindly and hartily welcome , as an honest mind ( rather indeed with vertue then formality ) might expresse , the Ambassadour hauing many daintye dishes , sent home to his owne house . Now the whole company of Ships safely arriued , and all the Ambas . followers landed some daies before : it came forthwith into the care and loue of the Ambas . ( being by the Agent well informed of diuers vices , customes , and Obseruations , fit either to be followed or auoyded ) who was euer desirous to keepe an honorable opinion to himselfe , and an honest name in his followers , as in his going vp to the Court , so , euer after also to ingraue within their memories , their happy deliuerance from the Sea , before his departing the Arch-angel , very honorably thus to aduise & counsell them . SInce it hath pleased the Almightye of his great mercy , safely to protect vs in our dangerous trauaile vpon the Sea , and to bring vs on Land , euen all of vs , without any the least misfortune , let vs thinke it a very great blessing , and the remembrance of the dangers , and perils past , let them be euer before vs , as before those , that not onely vvil liue accordingly , but vvhich must assure themselues ; are to returne the same vvay againe : knovving , that God doth oftentimes vse his creatures ( and none oftner then the Sea ) to execute his Iudgements : let vs then be hartily thankefull for our deliuerance , and shew our obedience thereafter in our liues , especially in a strange Country , where he is not rightly knowne : a people and Nation very subtle and crafty , likewise inquisitiue after euery strangers actions , and this place the Port where al nations doe come to : where many vnderstande our language , let vs be wise and very circumspect what wee speake , of what , and to whom , for much cause of speech will bee giuen vs , because the people as well as their maners , customes , & salutations , are not onely strange , ( as with modestie I may speake somewhat rediculous ) and the rather since we bring the message of pe●ce and Amity , Let vs shew towardes them loue and curtesie . To be curteous , as it is a vertue beyond Enuy , so is it an aduantage without losse . I am likewise to require you , and that earnestly , to auoide Dicing and carding : which games , besides that they are among the better sort heere , accounted very base and odious , to me it shall be offensiue , and in the end to your selus great discommodity : as when some will carry that in his purse , his fellow should haue clothed his backe with : especially , if you vvithall do but remember the colde Climate you are to liue in Drukennes is rather here a custome , then a vice : yet themselues hate it in other . Bee then conquerors , if in this , in any thing , & make your wisedome , out of their vile beastlinesse herein , that you can refraine that , I hope you were neuer acquainted vvith all . Also Whoring in this Countrey is so common a sin , as their eies , can soone obserue it in straungers : for the peace of your ovvne Consciences , the strengthe of your ovvne bodies , abhorrè it as the most vnnaturall vvickednes : and rather , in respest they are not onely herein monstrous impudent , but impudence it selfe . Be it euer loathsome the thoughte thereof vnto you all . Thus if your carriage be , it vvill be an honor vnto our God , and he vvill honor you . It vvill be a glorye vnto your Countrey , adde reputation to me , and quyetnesse to your ovvne Consciences , and I shall be gladde to revvard them are carefull herein , as ready to punish the offenders . But I hope my speech shall onely serue to testifie my desire , and not bee the letter , to punishe any hereafter vvithall : yet , let not any one presume vpon my leanity or gentlenes , for I assure them I vvill euer prefer my protestations in the seruiee of God , if it lye vvithin my povver as these things novv do . The Prestaue Maxim Vrin hauing a new commission from the Emperor , accordingly prouided fiue Loddies , two with Cherdecks and all other necessaries . The Ambas . tooke his leaue of the Castle the sixt of Aug. and with some 30. men to a Boate , we were towed against the streame , when the winde was contrary : and thus changing our permiearies euery 10. vers , we came to Colimgro , where the Am. lay at the English house , two daies , and went forward vpon the faire and pleasant riuer of Dvvyna , tell within some 30. vers of Oysticke . My Lorde was met vpon the riuer with one other Prestaue , named Constantine Petrovvich Artishoue , a man of farre much better esteeme then the former . A graue , honest , and peaceable gentleman , a happines to any Ambassadour , and as necessarie in this Countrey as may be , the contrary whereof other Ambassadors and the laste that honourable and renowned Gen. Sir Richard Lea , found his greatest crosse , for pride , opinion , and selfe will , is inherent to any Russe put in place of honor . This Gentle. being come within a quarter of a Myle , sent to the Ambas . to giue him notice , that the Emperor had sent him as his Prestaue , and hee desired to see his Lordship , as well to know of him concerning his health , his vsage , and his prouision , as to let him vnderstand the Emperors especial fauor towards him , in sending him presently vpon Newes of his arriual , with a larger commission , and that at all Yames and Townes of quality , he had deliuered letters for his receyuing of horses and prouission of diet , and what he would desire . So two of the K. Gen. fetched him on boord the Ambassadors Doshonicke , where he was honouraly entertayned , and indeede he was a kind Gentleman , as who knowes this Countrey people might easily acknowledge , whence after halfe an houres drinking and eating he departed : presently after his departing , the Ambas . sent sixe of his Liueries , and his Enterpreter or Tolmatch to his boat , with a banquet , which he very kindly and thankefully accepted : so we passed along on our Iourney , which was as pleasant and delightfull , wheather you consider the admirable straight pine , tall Cedar , or fyrre woods ; Alablaster Rockes , or the pleasantnes of walkes , in sweet Meadowes , and fair pastures , than which , for 1000. vers cannot be more welcom in the whole world , which we fully Towed and sayled in the Dvvina , Soocana , and Vollagda . I must leaue many faire townes , and great Presents , where we lay and rested , because it will bee rather an Hyperbole , than a receiued truth : and I desire to escape those smal rubbes , that others may the easier fall vppon them , being safely come within fiue vers of Vollagda , the sixt of Septem . and vnwilling to forsake so pleasant a passage , we the 7. day , acompanied with many Du. and Gentlemen , and for the Am : a faire horse from the great Bish. there . As for the Kings Gent. and some others , we rode to a very fair and large house prouided for the Ambas . where they lefte him , not as then willing to take or taste of his goodnes ( as the Russe termes it ) partly , it is to be supposed for that the many are neuer in sodain accidents of one resolution , and partly , for that it was to be thought , the Ambas . was not so well prouided for them , as afterwards being setled he would be . In this great towne we easily found the Emperors commaund , for our better dyet , and liberty to ride , was withall willingnes performed , where the Ambassador first , ( as in euere place after ) was more gratiously entertained . The 12. of Septem . the Ambas . accompanyed with diuers Gentlemen , tooke his trauell by Land , himselfe riding in his owne Coatch , with a spare horse led by at his pleasure , with 150. horses , with the carriages . So by easie Iourneyes , wee passed a pleasant and faire trauell , as is or can be for so many vers , in the whole world , without any rainy daies , or foule vvaies , resting euery Sabaoth day , as the Ambas . had by water before done , not indeed missinge two Sermons at any time , no ( hardlye at the Sea though our Preacher were the sickest man. ) Such was his care and zeale , and truely he was an honest quiet man , and a sufficient Scholler , named Maister Samuell Sotheby . Thus we passed from Yam , to Yam , vppon excellent Post-horses , till we came thorogh many well scituated , and pleasant townes , vnto the Cittie of Yerri-slaue , which we came vnto , the 19. of Sept. where we were receiued with a multitude of people . After we had rowed in a very great Barge , ouer the famous Riuer of Volga , ( wherevnto adioyning this citty on a hill is scittuated ) a rich and pleasant Citty where the Ambassador was lodged in the house of Gregory Euannovvich Micolin , late Ambassador , to her Maiesty of England . It might be fitting for me to speake somewhat of this famous Riuer , as is I thinke for length , and bredth , any ( one ) excepted in the world , but so many excellent writers , as in the worthy labors of Master Richard Hacklyute , haue made particular mention therof , as it induseth me , to leaue the description of this Riuer and towne , to those that haue largely and painfuly wrote of such things : especially to M. Doct. Fletchers true relation , sometime Ambas . to this Emperor . The 21. of September , we went from Yeri-slaue being well accompanied from the Citty , passing through Shepetscoy , ( where wee lay ) and dwels an English gentleman named Georg Garland , sometime seruant to that Noble but vnfortunate E. of Essex , of whom many through the world , do make in diuers kinds , but ( as that learned and heroycall Poet Sir Phil. Sidney speaks of Prince Plangus ) neuer any can make but honorable mention . The next day we came to Rostoue , an ancient , but a great ruinous town , wherof is one of their Metropollitanes named . Here in a faire house the Ambassa . lay 2. daies : in which time the Emperors Mate . wrote to our Prestaue , that the Ambas . and the Kings gentlemen should haue ambling horses from the Monasteries , and that we should take as easie Iourneyes as we pleased : with commaund , to giue content to euery ones desire . And certainly , had not the Emperor as then bin taking a Prograce to the Monastery of Troiets , ( which foure times a yeare for Religious causes he doth ) we had receiued more especiall fauors . Yet he that hath but trauailed to know what Monasteries are , and how prouided of al things , may easily esteeme it , a great ease , and especiall honour to haue there horses . The 25. day we came to Perri-slaue , a long decayed towne , where in a rich merchants house , new builded , the Ambas . lodged . Here ( in regarde of the Emperors and Princes being at Troytes , which was but of our easie trauell two daies iourny ) we lodged 3. daies , & then departed throgh Doobna to Troites , that fair and rich Monastery , so to Bratte-sheene , and Rostouekin , 5. vers from the great city of Musco : where in a Churchmans house , the Ambass . that n●ght lodged , and the rest in verie good houses , for so small a Dereuena . This night the Agent hauing bin with the chancellor came to visit his Lordshipp , and let him vnderstand , that the next morning about nine of clocke , he should be honourably brought into the Musco , whereupon euerie man prepared accordingly . The next morow , being the 4. of October , the Prestaue came and declared to his Lordsh. it was the Emperors pleasure , he should come into the Mosco that forenoone : presently after came M. I. Mericke Agent , with some twenty horses to attend his Lord ship , and informed him his vnderstanding , in his comming into the Mosco , and that he shoulde presently be sent for , which forth-vvith was performed . Then we did ride , till we came within a little mile of the many 1000. of Noblemen and Gentl. on both sides the way , attended on horseback to receiue his Lordsh. Where the Ambassador alighted from his Coatch , and mounted on his footcloth horse , and so rode on with his trumpets sounding . A quarter of a mile farther , met him a proper and gallant gentleman a foote of the Emperors stable , who with cap in hand , declared to the Ambassador , that the Emperor , the young Prince , and the maister of the horse , had so far fauored him , as to send him a Iennet , very gorgeously trapped with gold , Pearle , and pretious stone ▪ and particularly , a great chaine of plated gold about his necke , to ride vpon . Whervpon the Ambassador alighted , imbraced the gentleman , returned humble thanks to them all , and presently mounted . Then he declared that they likwise had sent horsses for the kings Gentlem. which likewise were very richly adorned , then for all his followers : which ceremony or state performed , & all being horssed , he departed , wee riding orderlye forward , till we were met by three great Noblmen , seuered from the rest of the multitude , and the Emperors Tolmache or interpreter with them . Of which state the Ambassador it may seeme , had for-knowledge , ( it being in this Countrey a custome vsed ) but with more or lesse Noblemen , as is the Emperors fauour and grace . Likewise vnderstanding of the strange Ceremony of first allighting from their horses , ( as who eyther hath read sir Ierome Bowes his formality and obseruance hereof , or sir Richard Leaes painefull standing vpon the priority herein ) may thinke the Emperors command is very strait therunto , and as they thinke much honour is loste to dismount first : but they being within speach , thus began that Oration they could neuer well conclude : Which was , That from their Lorde and Maister the mighty Emperour of Rushia , &c. they had a message to deliuer his lordship . The Ambassador then thinking they would be tedious and troublesome with their vsuall Ceremonies ; preuented their farther speeche with this ( to them a Spell ) That it vvas vnfitting for subiects to hold discourse in that kinde of complement , of tvvo such mighty and renowmed Potentates on horsbacke . They hereby not only put by their ceremonious saddle-sitting , but out of their paper instructions for the state thereof ashamed ( as was proude Artexius , stepping aside in the daungerous fight with Zealmene ) they allighted sodainly , as men fearing they were halfe vnhorsed , and the Ambassador presently after them , comming very courteously all three , saluting the Ambass . and the kings gentlemen , taking them by the hands . Thus like a scholler , too olde to learne by rote ( the Duke named K. Volladamur Evanywich Mavvsolskoy ) with his Lesson before him , declared his message , which was , that he with the other twoe Noblemen , were sente from the Great Lord , Emperor and great Duke Borys Phedorvvich , selfe-upholder , great L. Emperor , and great Duke of all Rushia , Volademer , Moskoe and Novogorode , king of Casan and Astracan , Lord of Vobskoe , great Duke of Smolenskoe , Tuer , Huder , Vghory , Perme , Viatsky , Bolgory , &c. Lord and great duke of Novogorod in the Lovv-countries , of Chernigo , Rezan , Polotskey , Rostoue , Geraslaue , Bealozera , Leifland , Oudorskey , Obdorskey , Condingskey . King of all Syberia and the North coasts . Commander of the contreys of Iversky , Grysinsky , and Emperor of Kabardivsky , of Chirkasky , and of the vvhol countrie of Garskey , and of many other countries and Kingdomes lord and Emp. to know of his Ma. health of England , the Qu. and Princes . The second , being a capt . of gunners ( the Emperors guard ) named Kazarine Davydovvich Beaheetchoue , pronouncing the Emp. and princes tytle , said he was sent from them to knowe his Lordsh. health and vsage , with the kings Gent. The third , was one of the Secretaries , named Pheodor Boulteene , obseruing the former order , did deliuer what he had in command from the Emp. prince and Empresse , to informe the Ambassador of their much fauor towards him and the kings Gent , in prouiding for his honorable intertain and ease , a fayre large house to lodge in : Also , that they three were sent from the Emp. Prince , and Empresse , to be his Prestaues , to supply the Emperors goodnes toward him , to prouide his necessaries , and deliuer anye sute it pleased the Ambassadour to make to the Emperour . To all which the Ambassador very wiselie gaue answere ( as they made report vnto the Emp. ) So we all presently mounted again , the Prestaues on either hand of the Amb. his horse and footcloth being led by his Page , som small distance , his cotch behind that , and some 6000. Gallants after behind all : who at the Ambas . riding thorough the guard , that was made for him , very courteously bowed him selfe . Thus was he followed by thousands , and with in the three vvalles of the Citty , many hundreds of yong Noblemen , Gentlemen , and rich merchants well mounted , begirt the wayes of euery side : diuers on foote also , euen to the gate of the house where the Ambassador was to be lodged , which was some two myles . Whether being come , hee was brought into his bed-chamber by the Noblemen his Prestaues , where with many thanks for their honorable paines ; they vvere dismist , betaking themselues to their further affayres . The next morn cam three other Prestaues with the former , to knovve of his Lordships health , and hovv he hadde rested the night past : vvithall , that if his Lordshippe wanted any thing , they all , or any one of them , were as commaunded , so ready to obey therein . These , with the Enterpreter and six Gent. were most within the walles , lodged in a house ouer the gate , besides wee had fifty Gunners to attend , and gard vs in our going abroad . The 8. of Octob. being the 4. day after our comming to Musco , the Prestaues came to his Lordship to let him vnderstand , they heard he should goe vp the next day : wherefore they desired his speech and Ambassage to the Emperour : and the rather , that the Enterpreter might ( as they pretended ) translate it . To this purpose , very earnestly at seueral times they made demaund . The Ambassador answered , that he was sent from a mighty Prince , to be his Ambassa . to their Emperor , hauing with no small danger passed the Sea , and a second water trauaile , with a long land Iourney , and stil was comforted , with hope to see his Maiesties cleere eyes , that for a welcome was the tidings thereof vnto him ? Especially , to haue audience within so short a space as he might not lesse do then ackcowledging the Emperors great fauour towards him : and being sent to their maister , he deemed it , not onely a dishonor to him , but a weaknes in them , to require that at his hands , ( which besides that he would never do ) he could not , being to speak that in the deliuery was according as it pleased god , to giue him time , occasion , memorie , and courage , being to come before a strange and mighty Prince , where what he said , was to be interpreted as pleased their Tolmatch . This , peremtorely , and finally was his aunswere . Yet , whensoeuer he did go , as he was both willing and ready at all houres , ●e desired to haue certaine horse and other things , which without them , hee could not be so well prouided of . So , after banqueting departed away rather discontented , then satisfied . Surely it is a custome ( not so wise as auncient ) for thē to fal out into bad language , if they canot haue their willes , which to many would be , as simple a demaund , as it were folly in the Ambassador to graunt : Especially , if men knew how vndiscreete a man they woulde thinke him to be , woulde please their humors herein . For it is but a Stratigem they vse to vndermine withal , that they may report the magnanimity or pusillanimity of the Ambas . vnto the Emperor . The 10. of October , his Prestaues brought word as from the Lord Chaunsellor ▪ that he thought , ( for they wil neuer tell any thing to come for certainty ) his Lordsh. should go before the Emperor the next morrow , therfore prayed him to prouide : also , that he should haue the Em. horses to ride on , & of his guard to helpe carry vp his present , of which they had ( after dem●unde ) a particular . The 11. of October his Lordship being sent for by his Prestaues ther waiting , hauing excelent Iennets for himselfe , the Kings Gentlemen , and good horses for the rest● . as likewise two gallant white Palfreis to carrie or draw a rich Chariot , one parcell of the great present , with his followers and the Emperors guard , carrying the rest At his gate many gallants attending for his receipt , rode to the Court , accompanied on each hand with his Prestaues , and some others following him , with manie Gentlemen behinde them . Thus we rode a shorte vers beheld with thousand of eies : on each side the streets standing the Emperors guarde with peeces in their hands well apparrelled , to the number of two thousand by esteeme , many messengers posting betwixt the Court and our Prestaues . Thus with much state , softly riding , tell wee came vnto the vtmost gate of the court , ( hauing passed thorogh the great Castle before ) there his Lordsh. dismounted . Then met him a great Duke ( named Knase Andriay Metowich Soomederoue ) with certain Ge. to bring him vp . So in order as we rode , we assended the staires and a stone gallery . where on each side stood many Nobles , and Courtiers , in faire coates of Persian stuffe , veluet , Damaske &c. At the entry to the great chamb . two Councellors incountred the Ambassa . to conduct him thorogh that roome , rounde about which sat many graue and richly apparrelled personages . Then we entred the Presents , whether being come , and making obeysance , we staide to hear , but not vnderstand , a very gallant Nobleman , named Peter Bas-man , deliuer the Emperors title : Then the particular of the Presentes , and some other ceremonies : which performed , the Ambassa . hauing liberty , deliuered so much of his Ambassage , as the time and occasion then affoorded : After which the Emperor arising from his throne , demanded of the King of Englands health , the Princes , and Queenes : then of the Ambassadours and the Kinges Gentlemen , and how they had bene vsed since they entred within his dominions : to al which with obeysance we answered as was meete . Then the young Prince demaunded the very same . The Ambassador hauing taken the Kings Letter of his Gentleman Vsher , went vp after his obeysance to deliuer it , which the Lord Chansellor would haue intercepted . But the Ambass . gaue it to the Emperors owne hands , and his Maiesty afterwards deliueit to the Lord Chaunsellor : who tooke it , and shewing the superscription to the Emperor and Prince , held it in his hande openly with the seale towardes them . Then the Emperor called the Ambassador to kisse his hand , which he did , as likewise the Princes , and with his face towards them returned . Then did he call for the Kings Gentlemen , to kisse his hande , and the Princes , which they after obeysance made , did accordingly . Afterwards , his Maiest . invited his Lordsh. the K. Gent. and the rest to dine with him , as likewise M. I. Mericke Agent by name , who gaue his attendance there on the Ambas . and was now ( as diuers times ) very gratiously vsed of the Empe. and Prince : no stranger ( that I euer heard of ) like him in al respects . Then we departed the presents , accompanied with diuers Noblemen , and passed on into the Councel-chamber vvhere vve vvil leaue them . Being entred the Presence , we might behold the excelle●● Maiestie of a mighty Emperor , seated in a chaire of golde , richly embrodered with Persyan stuffe : in his right hande he helde a golden , Scepter , a Crowne of pure Golde vppon his heade , a coller of rich stones and Pearles about his necke , his outward garments of Crimson-veluet , Embrodered very faire , with Pearls precious stones , and Gold : On his right side , ( on equall hight to his throne ) standing a very faire globe of beaten gold , on a Pyramedis , with a faire crosse vppon it , vnto which before he spake , he turned a little and croste himselfe . Nigh that , stoode a faire bason and Ewer , which the Emperor often vseth daily . Close by him in another throne sat the Prince , in an outward garment like his Fathers , but not so rich , a high blacke Fox cap on his head , worthe in those Countreyes fiue hundred pound , a Golden staffe like a Fryers , with the likenes of a crosse at the top . On the right hand of the Emperor , stood two gallant Noble-men in cloath of Siluer garments , high blacke Fox cappes , great and long chaines of Gold , hanging to their feet with pollaxes on their shoulders of gold . And on the left hād of the Prince two other such , but with Siluer pollaxes . Round about the Benches , sat the Counsell , and Nobility , in Golden and Persyan coates , and high blacke Fox caps , to the number of two hundred . The ground beeing couered with cloath of Arrasse , or Tapistrie . The presents standing all the while in the Roome , within little distance of his Maiestie , where hee and the Prince often viewed them . The Emperors fauor , complection , and disposition with the Princes , I shall defer ( tell vnhappily before our departing I decla●e the manner of his death . ) Beeing now by our Prestaues and others come for to dinner , who led vs through much presse and many Chambers to one very faire and rich roome , where was infinite store of massy plate of all sortes . Towards the other ende stoode the Emperors vnkle , named Stephean Vaselewich Godonoue , Lord high Steward , being attended with many Noblemen and Gentlemen . Vnto whom my Lord in his passage saluted , which with an extra ordinary countenance of aged Ioy , hee receiued , making one of their honorable Noddes . Thambassador entred the dining roome , where wee againe viewed the Emperor and Prince , Seated vnder two chaires of State , ready to dine , each hauing a scul of pearle on their bare heades , but the Princes was but a Corronet . Also their vestments were chaunged . The former Duke , that for that day was Thambassadors Prestaue , came , as commaunded from the Emperor , and placed the Ambassador at a Table , on the Bench side some twenty foote from the Emperor . Then the Kings Gentlemen , Maister Mericke , Maister Edward Cherry , and al the rest were placed , so that our eies were halfe opposite to the Emperor . Ouer against the Ambassador sat his Prestaues vpermost , also in this large place sat the Pri●y Counsel , to the number of 200. Nobles at seuerall tables . In the midst of this hall might seeme to stand a great Piller , round about which , a great heigth stood wonderfull great peeces of plate , very curiously wroght with all manner of Beastes , Fishes and fowles , besides some other ordinarye peeces of seruiceable plate . Being thus set ( some quarter of an houre as it were , feeding our eyes with that fayre Piller of plate ) we beheld the Emperors table serued by two hund . Noblemen , all in coates of cloth of gold . The Princes table serued with one hun . yong Dukes and princes of Cassan , Astrican , Syberia , Tartaria , Chercasses , & Russes , none aboue twenty yeares olde . Then the Emperor sent from his table by his noble seruitors , to my lord and the kings Gent. 30. dishes of meate , and to each a loafe of extraordinary fine bread . Then followed a great number of straunge and rare dishes , some in Siluer , but most of massie gold : with boiled , baked and rosted , being piled vp on one another by halfe dozens . To make you a perticular relation , I should do the entertainment wrong , consisting almost of innumerable dishes : Also , I should ouercharge my memory , as then I did mine eyes and stomache , little delighting the Reader , because Garlicke and Onions , must besauce many of my words , as then it did the most parte of their dishes . For our drinkes , they consisted of many excellent kindes of Meandes , besides all sortes of Wine , and Beere . I assure you I had rather drinke to you a daily health in them , then make you long after their pleasantnesse , considering the colde and sower voyage you must vndertake , before you tast of their vigor and sweetnesse . Diuers times by name , the Emperour sente vs dishes , but in the midst of dinner he called the Ambass . vp to him , and dranke our kings health , where the Emperor held som discourse of our king & state . But at one time ( striking his hand aduisedly on his breast ) Oh , saide he , my deere Sister Queen Elizab. whom I loued as mine own hart , expressing this his great affection almost in a weeping passion . The Ambassador receiuing the cup from his Princelye hand , returned againe to his owne place , where all of vs standing , drank the same helth out of the same cup , being of fayre Christall , as the Emperor had commanded , the wine ( as farre as my iudgement gaue leaue ) being Alligant . Thus passing some foure houres in banquetting , and refreshing our selues too plentifully , all being taken away , we did arise . The Ambassador and the kings gentlemen beeing called by name to receyue from his Emperiall handes , a cup ( or rather as they call it a Yendover ) of excellent redde Meande , a fauour among them neuer obserued before , which cups for they wer great and the Meand very strong , we often sipped at , but without hu●ting our memories , we could not say Amen vnto : which the Emper . perceiuing , comanded them to be taken away , saying : He was best pleased with what was most for our healthes . Thus after our lowe courtesies performed , wee departed from his presence , riding home with the same former guarde and attendance to our lodgings , where our Prestaues as for that instant lefte vs , but shortly after they cam again , to accompany a great and gallant Duke , one of them that held the Emper. golden Polaxes , named Knes Romana Phedorovvich Troya Narove ( whoe was sent from his maiestie , to make the Ambassador , and the kinges Gentlemen merry : likewise hauing instructions to drinke their Emperors , our King , and both the Princes healths , and diuers Princes else , which hee did himselfe verye freelye and some of vs , as many of them as we could with our owne healths , there being such plenty of Meandes and other drinkes , as might wel haue made forty Russes haue stumbled to sleepe . Thus light-headed , and well laded , especialy if you take knoledge of y ● 30. yards of cloth of gold , and the two standing cups with couers , which the Ambassador rewarded him withall , before he departed . And surely a wise Duke shall he euer bee , that couers his backe with his belly , and by taking a cup or two extraordinary can swallow down a hundreth Markes in siluer and gold , to recouer his P●pemeli● , as they call it : I say his wits withall , but he had it giuen him with a verye good will , and with a better mind , then he had that did so lightly carry it away . Now there was after our first being at the Court , much inquiry made whether the Ambassador would go home by the Narue and so ouer land , but vpon what reasons I know not , only I vnderstood his Lo. should haue had a second audience forthwith , after he had deliuered by writing to the Em. those things he did not speake before , being sent vnto for them the next day , perhaps the heads wherof he did send to the Emper. that his councell might aduise vpon them . But vnwelcome newes within four daies after our audience so vnhappilye came , as not onlye our affayres but any else , except counsell against present danger , was not regarded . For this was held for currant , that one who named himselfe Demetre Evanowich Beola , as the son of their late Emperor , Evan Vasillovvich , he that in the raigne of Pheodor Evannovvich his brother ( at what time Boris Pheodorvvich now Emperour , then Protector ) was in his infancy ( as was thought ) murthered at Ougleets , is now reuiued againe , and vp in Armes for his right and inheritance : so did he distract the Emp. & kingdome , such a world of tales troubled the commons that the Ambass . must necessarily bee in some feare , because the Emp. and State were in all , and thought he would bee perswaded it was but deceipt , yet the butchering of him , or at least the intent , much ter●ified his soule and conscience : wherupon presently was sent an army of 200000. souldiers , eyther to take or sley him . But hee was so strengthened vvith Poles , Cassackes , &c that a number of Russes yealded to his obedience . Insomuch as he hath byn the author of more bloudshed , then hath beene there of many yeares ( although these Emperors haue continuall warres with diuers Nations . ) Notwithstanding the Emperors fauour was much , and greater euery daie then other to the Ambassador and the kin , Gentlemen . For we had liberty to ride at our pleasure , and to this ende had the Emperors sleades or horses vpon demaund , with one of our Prestaues , & other gent. to accompany and guard vs. So as vpon the 21. of Nouember , 〈◊〉 Prince of an auncient custome goi●g to a C●urch within Musco , the Kings Gent. vppon knowledge thereof , ( Th●mbas . being vnwilling to be seene publike , as also for that the Emp. hims●lfe did not go as he was accustomed ) went and attended where his excellency might see them , and they safely beholde him , who rode in a very faire and rich slead , hauing a gallant Palfrey led by two groomes to drawe it , many hundreds running before to sweep the snow away where he should passe , and were said to be slaues , which I verily beleeue , because certainly they were his subiects . Then came the Prince richly apparrelled with two tartar Princes standing before one his slead and two young Dukes behind , with 200. sleds following him , who when he came against the place , the Kings Gentlemen gaue their attendance , made a stande , gratiously questioning them of the Ambas . healthe and their own , which with lowe courtesie they made answere vnto : so his Maiesty departed , and they expected his return , which wold be within one houre , then came before the Lord Chaunsellor , and wished them to stay , very honorably and kindly bespeaking them , and Maister Iohn Merick ( who attended there with them ) so the Prince returning made a seconde stay : then giuing knowledge he woulde send them home a present , willing his commendations to bee remembred to the Ambas . and so passed in . Within 4. houres after came a Gent. one of the Emp. chiefe Butlers , named Bactayer from the Prince , vnto the Kings Gent. with a great present . After their entertainment to the Gentlemen , and drinking of our Princes healths , they brought him into the Ambassadors bed-chamber , who gaue great thankes to the Prince , on the Kings Gentlemens behalfe , they giuing him at the Ambassadors appointment , a peece of siluer and gilte plate worth twenty markes , and very thankfully returning their seruice to the Prince for his royal present , and to himselfe much thanks for his paines . The Ambassador kept here a great Christmas hauing a good company , not without some sports befitting his state , and the present time . Vpon New-yeeres day , he was very honourably presented with New yeers-gifts , from master Doct. Christopher Writtinger , the Emperors chiefe Physitians some of the Kinges Gentlemen , Maister Iohn Mericke and his wife , and many other English Marchaunts : wherein they expressed their good wil , and loue , as to him , not onely had or would deserue it , but accounted it a vertue , not to be vnthankfull or vnmindfull of any kindnes bestowed on him . The 8. of February the Emperor sent vs sleds to ride abroade , and this day the rather , that we might behold a reported victorie , against the reputed Rebell Demeatry &c , So we the Kings Gentlemen did behold three hundred poore prisoners , seuenteene Ensignes , and eleuen drummes , brought in , vvith more glory , then victorie . About this time returned Peter Basman , one of the generals , who had performed very honourable seruice , and certainely , he was the man of greatest hope and expectation in the whole Empire , who was brought into the Musco , with all the Counsell , Nobles , Gentlemen , and Marchants , a grace neuer performed before to any Subiect . But not without suspicion of some extraordinary secret herein , and besides particular fauors , bountifull rewards , and a promise he should neuer go againe vntill the Emperor himselfe went , he was being but a young man , made a Priuy Counsellor , foorthwith one thinge I will you shall obserue the Emperors fauor , and his then Noble spirit , he making diuers times sute ( as was thought ) because they were in great daunger to go againe to the vvars once prostrated himselfe , to obtaine his desire , but falling downe too humblie , he could not easily rise againe , whereby the Emperor vnd●rstanding of his many and great vvoundes , was said to weepe , rysing himselfe vppe to raise and help him vp , but extraordinary causes , haue the like effects , as hereafter you shall vnderstand . Among other times of our taking the ayre , wee be●ing lodged in that large house builded for the Entertainment of 2000. Poles , with as many horse , attending the great Chaunsellor of Letto : The firste Ambassador of ( but of a strange ) peace , concluded about the time , Sir Richard Lea , was Ambassadour there , for her late Maiest . of England : the same house the yong Prince Iohn of Denmarke , Brother to that King , and our now Queene of England did lodge in , who would haue married the young Princes Oucksinia , the Emperors onely Daughter , but that hee vnhappily there died of a surfet , as I was creadible Informed of one of the Em. Doctors . The Ambassad . as Plaid lying in the same house , but not in any those lodgings : for it is a custome there , that where a Prince dies ( especially a straunger ) not of long time after to let anye other lodge there : yet we savv , and after walked in those lodg . though they were for the most part barred vp and kept close : which often seeing of the chamb . where he departed , being brother to our Noble and vertuous Quee. wroght a desire in vs to see his toomb . The kings gentlemen and some others , hauing the Emp. horses and sleads , rode to their Sloboda , as we call it Suberbes , wher in the Chancell of the dutch Church he vvas interred , with a great and Princelie obsequy : the Emp himselfe and Prince , attending the corps to the first g●te , but all his Councellors , Nobles , gentlemen , &c , following to the Church where they stayed tyll the Sermon was ended . Hee had a large toombe couered with blacke veluet , many banners and Scutcheons hanging about the body of the Church and chancel , with his Armes and Creast , and considring the countrey , very princely . Now the Ambassador vnderstanding of the conuenience of his passage down by slead way , also fearing ( as wise men had cause ) what the yssue of these warres would be , knowing the state here vsed in any sutes , bethought himselfe aduisedly that it vvas hie time being the midst of February , to desire a second audience for his sooner dispatch , which he foorthwith requested , and wrote a letter to that purpose , vnto the L. Chancellor , whom he knew must necessarily shew it vnto the Emp. but within twoe daies , the Chancellor was himselfe to go vnto the camp , vpon businesse of great importance , so as it would consequently be vpon his returne , before he could haue audience : for that none would nor could● , so well and willingly supply that office , of dispatch for Ambassadors , as Ofod Nasse . His return accordingly , the Ambassad . by his Prestaues , put him in mind of his dispatch , which he said directly should forthwith be performed : so as within ten daies a●●●r , the Amb. had his second audience very gratiously and honourably as thus : Hauing notice giuen of the day , he was accordingly sent for with the Emp. own slead for his own person , and horses for the kinges Gent. and the rest , as was desired by them . Vpon the 10. of March , the Ambas . with the kin . gentlemen all richly apparailed , and all his followers decently attending , very honourably ( as before ) and with the like recourse of beholders , and guard of Gunners , ( but that they were said to be Citizens by reason of their wars , put in like apparell ) was attended to the Court , being receiued with the former grace , or more , he ascended the Presence : the Emp. and Prince holding their wonted state , onely changing their vestments with the season , but for the riches nothing inferior . So soone as the Ambass . and the kings gent. were come opposite to his throne , he commanded seats that they might sit downe : then with a Maiest●cke countenance , representing rather constraint , then former cheerfulnes , he declared , that he , his sonne , and Councel , had considered his Maiesties letter , the Maiestie of king Iames of Eng. as also on whatsoever else was desired , and in token of his ioyful receiued amity with the renowmed king of England , as with his predecessor , he had wrote his Princelie letters to that purpose . Herwith the Chancel from the Emp. deliuered the Amb. his Highnesse letters to his excellent Ma. Withall vnderstanding by the Chan. he had some farther matter to intreat of , then in his breefe to his maiest . was remembred : therfor he had appointed foure principall Councellors to consult with him of his requests , which was doone . After , the Ambas . ye●lding curteous thanks for his Maiest fauour , his Lordsh. attended by many Nobles , proceeded to the Councell chamber , whether presently after came fou● Councelors , and the Em. Tolmach : who after salutations , we withdrew to the next chamber , wher we passed away an hour in discourse , among many young Nobles , hauing the Ambass . enterpreter . In the end , after three or four goings and returns of the Chancelor from the Em. we went again before him ( where after he had commanded vs to sit downe as before ) by the mouth of the Chauncel●our was openlye deliuered a briefe of the whole Embassie ( and that d●yes perticuler desire according to the Ambassadors request confirmed ) Also in good and pleasing language , vvas declared the great desire that the Emperor hadde , for the continu●nce of p●ace and amiti● with the renowmed Iam●s king of Eng. as with the la●e Q. Eliz. with all that in due time ( all accidents well ended , ) he would send an honorable Ambas . for further affaires , as likewise to congratulate with our King of his happines in so applausable comming to his right and inheritance : Farther , that of al demands , their graunts , or reasons why not graunted he would send the Ambas . a role . Also of the grant of 600. robles , which for the loue of the King of England , and at the Ambas . earnest request , he commaunded should be paid backe againe . Likewise , a graunt of a new Priuiledge for the company , which he saide should be vnder the golden seale &c. Which ceremonius speech ended , the Emp. called for the Ambas . and the Kinges Gent. to kisse his hand , and the Princes : which done , with the Empe. Nod or bowing to vs , as likewise the Princes , desiring the remembrance of his and the Princes commendations to his Maiesty , the Prince , and Queene of England , we were dismissed , but not before the Emp. said he would send home to vs. Thus we tooke our last leaue of the Emperors Court , being more gratiously , and especially entertained then before , or then euer any would take knowledge Ambas . were vsed withall . At which I do not a litle wonder , considering the heauines of times , and the bad succ●sse of his new entertained wars , and no doubt the secret trouble , and griefe of his conscience : but hee that was from his Infancy , ( then being a subiect ) esteemed and accounted subtile and ingea●ious , now being an Emp. experienced with many straunge plots and stratigems , to his number of yeares and imploiments , could he lesse be , or lesse seeme th●n a wise polititian ? But we are honorably attended home , and a Duke of great account named Knas Euan Euannowich Courletev , cals me at this time ( from Princes proceedings ) to attend him , that was attended with many of the Emp. seruants within our gates : following him a dinner , sent from the Emp. by some 200. persons , consisting of 300. severall dishes of Fish , ( for it was now Lent ) of such strangenes , greatnes , and goodnesse , ( for their number ) as it were not to be beleeued by any report , but by a mans owne eye-sight , with infinite store of Meandes , and beere , in Massy plate . The Duke sat at the tables end by the Ambas . hauing euery dish deliuered him by the name , which was enterpreted to the Ambas vvhere hauing long sat , and well feasted , vve rose , and obseruing theyr Countreys fashion , after the roome was deasentlie beseene , the Ambas . dranke the Emperors health in a small gilte cup couered : then our Kings and the two Princes , all vvhich the Duke pledged willinglye , although his cups held foure times the Ambassa : besides , the drink vvas as different , the one being beer or Meand , the others alligant , Sacke and Muskadell . After them , the Prestaues , the Kinges Gent. and others of the Emp. servantes being there did the like . Thus som four or fiue hours was soone stolne away , night before diner hauing sent his borrowd torches to light vs , when the Duke having receiued a woorthy present of the Ambas . was lightly ( whether you consider the torches , his drinking , or the Ambassa . bounty ) sent away , and so this feastiuall daies-night was concluded . The 17. of march , the Ambas . being before often inuited by this Agent , now after so honorable a dispatch , was willing to see the English house : hauing the Emp. sleds and horses , one of the Prestaues , the Tolmatch , and some Simboyarskes or Gentl. we rode thither : where his Lordship had a bountifull feast , a harty welcome , and as good company . After diner , the Ambas . his Prestaus , & the Tolmatch , went forth of the dining roome to see Mistris Merick , ( for their fashion wil not admit any women at tabl● ) who had prouided an excel●ent banquet of English stuffe , and was much reioyced to see the Amba . ( whom she knew before ) at her house in so far a Country . There the honest and kind Agent ( by the faire hands of his vertuous wife ) after the banquet , presented his Lord ship with a faire standing gilt cup and couer , worth thirty pound , likewise his Prestaue and Enterpreter , very bountifully , so returning to the comp . for that time we left . One obseruation I there made , of the great desire and often offer of the Prestaue when hee saw Mistris Mericke , to be gone : saying , it befitted him not to behold such creatures . But the Enterpreter ( being a Dutch-man ) borne to our English fashions , and acquainted with the Agent , perswaded him to Patience , both to his profit , pleasure , and belly delight . Thence ( after a like bountiful supp●r ) about 10. in the night we departed . One honorable kindnesse of the Chaunsellor I must not forget , who imagining the Kinges Gentlemen woulde that daye ●ide abroad , sent to vs to make offer of his Horse and sleds at our command , but we not minding to leaue the Ambassador for our pleasures , returned humble thankes to his Lordsh ▪ for his honorable kindnesse , not resoluing as that day to take more then sufficient . The 18. of march , the Empe. sent by Vassilly Gregorewich Telepnoue , the role wherin was the demands of the Ambas . and the particulers of the whole negotiation , as there at large appeares . The 19. his Maiesty sent by Mensboy Buldec●ue , vnder Treasoror , a royal present to the Ambas . of many perticulars , also to each of the Kings Gent. being rewarded , he departed . The 20. of march , being honorably accompanied with thousands of gallants of each side the streets al along as we passed , the Ambas . departed from the Citty of Musco . Surely a great and ( according to their woodden building a faire Citty ) with the whole numbers of horsemen still becking vs , till we came a short Myle on this side the Citty where we made a stande , and after some complement betweene the Ambassa . and his kind and honorable Prestaue , the Duke Vollag demor , with almost weeping on his part , the Ambassa . went from the Emp. fled , to his coatch set vppon a sled , and we alighted from the Emp. horses , and beto●ke our selues to our easie and pleasant passage in sleds , such a passage as this part of the world would wonder at , in which a man though he go a Hackney pace , maye as easilye reade , as sleepe : Hauing according to the Amb. request , one of our sonnet Prestaues , named Constantine Petrowich Arteshove , then whom the Emperor could not affoord a more humble or dilligent Gent. with him a Dyack , named Patricke Nasonove , and three of our former Sunboy arskeis , vvith their seruants . Thus accompanied with Maister Iohn Mericke , M. William Russell , somtimes Agent for the Dutch , and many other merchants , vve easily rode that nighte to Bratteshin , 30. myles from the Musco . The next morow taking leaue of them all , vve continued our iourny 50. and 60. vers a day easily . Our Prestaue had in command to let our Ambas . see any Monasterye or place hee desired , in his trauayle : also to lodge in vvhat houses it pleased him , in any Cittye or Tovvne : and where the English Merchants had houses , that the Ambas . might haue them , which indeed hee desired , aswell in respect they vvere the fayrest and most at his command : as also to vnderstand their courses , dealings , and behauiour of the seruants that kept them , and other speciall thinges , which but by personally there being , he should neuer truly haue vnderstood . And for the generall good of the company , I know he did that Seruice , that while it stands and he liues , they neede not fall into any vnaduised courses , if by him they will but be councelled , being furnished euery way with a ful vnderstanding and iudgment to that honorable intent . Especially , meeting here vvith so honest & discreet an Agent , so well beloued of the Emp. Prince and Nobility , so approued of by the merchants , in as good esteeme of al other , so thoroughly experienced in affaires , as well concerning their trade , as their customes , and demeanure , hauing a mind and ability , I am perswaded for the good and benefit of the whole company , as neuer had nor will succeede a fitter man. The 23. of march we came to Yery-slaue being satterday , and there rested our Saboth , where the company hath a very faire and tight house , which we lay in , and surely an honest discreet seruant then kept it . From hence we tooke our Iourney the 25. because we feated the breaking vp of the way , we made great but very pleasant iourneys , so as the 29. we came to Vollagde , wher the Ambas . lay at the English house , within the walles whereof it hath a great many of roomes , as chambers , worke-houses and the lyke , but the house it selfe is very old , and stands with an humble body as though it vvoulde shortly kisse the earth , at our being here the company had many ser. and the Amb. tooke a course they should thriue by his there lodging , allowing them for their beere for himselfe and the Kings Gent. their whole diet : being desirous to ●o the company good and their seruants no hurt . After Easter weeke was passed , the Prestaue came to desire that the Ambas . would appoint some to go and make choise of boates which then lay vpon the Riuer , that they might be fitted for his Lordship . which accordinglie verie carefullie was performed , the Gouernor of the towne hauing a Letter from the Emperor to giue the Ambassa . ful content , as indeed without detraction we had , to the wonderment of the common people . Within few daies after we heard Newes certainly of the Emp. suddaine and vntimely death : which considering , neyther the Prestaue , the gouernor , or Bishop , had not or would not of ten da●es after take knowledge , we might in the meane time haue doubted of , but that his Lordship had it from Maister Iohn Mericke by letter particularly . which news as indeed ther was great cause was very il welcome to the Ambas . much troubling him for diuers respects , wherfore vpon mature deliberation , as whose thoughts then only were intended that way , he resolued forthwith to send vp to the Musco , to this end : therfore early bestirring the next morne he sent for his Prestaues , who came willingly and chearfully to heare that with great heauines and sorrow , which yet they were so wise as not to beleeue though the day and houre of his death , with the maner of his enterring , were to them by the Am. own mouth deliuered : but he beleeued it , and therefore gaue them to vnderstand he would send vp post , and write to the Prince , their expected Emp. and others concerning affaires of importance . To that end he demanded poste horses and convoy accordinglye : which demand , though yet for the suddainnes and heauines did somewhat distract their heads , haue sildome easie resolutions but to sleeping : yet after desiring an houres liberty , and therin consulting with the Bish. and Gent. of the towne , it was effected . So then his Lordsh. requested M. Edw. Cherry ( thogh he was best to be commanded ) as being vsed to ride poast , hauing the language , knowing the factions of the Countrey , and an easie command in euerie town because of his bountifulnes , himself no doubt well pondring the waighte of his message , with the care and speed therein to be vsed , indeed as the onely he , whether you consider the intrest the Amb. had in him , or his seruiceable minde , often manifesting his duty to his Lordship : euen from his first going from the Arch-angell to this present . Thus hauing al thinges meete and fit for their speedie iourney , and weightie busines he with one of the Emperors Gentlemen vnderwent this dangerous and hard trauaile . Here it might be befitting this my relation , to declare somwhat at large the Emp. death , the cause or disease , his nature , stature , complexion , and stratigems . The Princes succeeding , the Nobles mourning , and the commons censuring , each of which I could with litle labor perform , but I know that man is made to vndergo much enuie , doth vndertake to vvrite of Princes persons or pollicies : which vvhosoeuer hereof vvrites truely must necessarily incur , it being as a fit subiect for another Plato to write of : so for a free born spirit to vvade in , my selfe protesting rather a vvill to be reputed timorus , then a desire to haue the least detraction , only because I vvil not be thought dumbe in such a speaking age , ( the time so falling out at my being there ) nor to want intelligence sufficient to tell the truth , I shal say something , as accounting him a foole , vppon a iuste occasion sp●ake● nothing . His death was very suddaine , and as it was in it selfe , verye straunge : for within some two houres after dinner hauinge ( as hee vsuallie had ) his Doctors with him , who lefte him in theyr Iudgements in health , as the good meale hee made could witnes , for he dined well , and fed plentifully , though presently after as may be thought , feeding ouer much , he felt himselfe not onely heauy , but also pained in his stomacke : presently went into his chamber , laid himselfe vppon his bed , sent for his Doctors ( which alwaies speeded ) yet before they came , he was past , being speechles and soone after dying . Before his death ( as speedy as it was ) hee would be shorne , and new christned , what the cause was otherwise then the griefe , inward sorrow , with diuers distractions about the wars , and their badde successe , fearing the worste on his part , onely God knowes : yet who , so remembers Gods iudgements , or Princes pollicies for kingdomes , with mans inherent sinfulnes : and considereth the one vvith the other , may be satisfied , if not contented . It is reported , and I am to the truth thereof rightly perswaded , that being , in this present not being , some of his Counsellors and Nobility demaunded , if he woulde not swear them a new to the Prince , and whether he shold not be their Em. his answer ( with much trembling ) was , as it pleased God , and the Commons thereby , presuming of the sufficiency , of their former oaths , but dispairing of the commons , if not with●l fearing gods iudgments . For the Princes succeeding I must defer that to hereafter , but for the mourning , who doth consider the fodaine losse in that time●●f rebellion , of their best , chief , and wisest heads , whose first election was frō their own applause , the youth , with the inocency of the Prince , herewithal remembring many strang plots long time vsed by the hous of the Godonoves , and flattring themselues in theyr good successe , and novv the general opinion in the right of Demetre , whereby all their hopes ended , may thinke there was moorning , sorrow and feare , as in those whose consciences are compacted all of feare . For this many headed-beastes of the multitude , none caring how nor vvhat hee spake , beeing naturally euer suspicious of the best , howe coulde they digest this , which of all other was the vvorst ? The rumor of the Emperors poisoning , with his reuiuing , Demetres Crowning , the Princes imprisoning , the Nobles fighting , most of the councellors reuolting , and the Merchants flying : vvith the variety , the likelihood , the necessitye , the desire , the hope , the feare , being all as nothing to them , liuing vnder that gouernment , which least needeth to care who gouern them so they be ouer-ruled in anye other more ciuil Nation . A subiect might haue loste his toong to haue spoken al : his eares to haue herd al , & his life to haue beleeued and defended al. For the Em. person , he was tall and well bodyed , teaching out of his authority obedience , of an excellent presence , black and thinne haired , well faced , round and close shaued , strong limbed , A Prince framed betweene thought and resolution ( more fit for a kingdom then a king ) as being euer in labour , but ne●er till death deliue●ed : neuer acting ( though euer plotting ) but in his closet or councel chamb . One rather obeyed than loued , being feared where he was not serued , protected by the mighty , rather than any particular , perhaps vnder pretence of continuall wars , to oppresse his poore subiects , couching tyranny vnder pollicy , as one whom long experience ( in opposite actions , had made as fit to rule thereby , as by cquity and conscience ) But gaining that Crowne with much cunning , that hee had no right vnto , held it great wisdome accordinglye to maintaine the same : esteeming it lesse blame , so to win a kingdome , then any other meanes to lose it : doubtlesse vpholding a true Maiestie and gouernment in euery part , but in his owne mind : that it is a question , whether he were more kind to strangers , or seuere and iust to his Subiects , or most hatefull and terrible to his enemies . In his entertainments , making royaltie and state , giue place to fashion and custome . A father and a Prince , whose wordes , councels , obseruacions , pollicies , resolutions , and experiments , were but the life of his deere son , neuer aduising , entertaining , no not praying without him : In all Ambassies & negotiations , remembring his sons name with his own , louing him ( being louely ) for that himselfe would be loued , vnwilling to spare his presence , desirous to haue him at all occasions before his eies . I shal not doe amisse , to giue a taste of the fruit sprung from so stately a tree . Being by a learned and wel trauailed gent. diuers times partic●larly aduised , to let the Prince take some mo●e ( then no recreation ) by which meanes hee might aswell prolong his life , as instruct his iudgment and delight his mind . Oh , would the Empe. answer , one son is no son : nay I am perswaded , three sons to me is but halfe a son . But had I sixe sons , then I might safely say I had one , howe then shoulde I part with that at any time , I know not to be mine for any tim . This may giue satisfaction to anye vnderstanding both of his feares and gelousies : his great loue , and much care . Another saying of the Emperour was this , and then let any iudg what I haue writ , & why . It was a vsuall speech with the Emp. vpon good reason : to say he was the Lord and father of his sonne , yet withall , That he was not only his seruant , but his very slaue . And thus he proued it That hee might command him , and that he begat him . For the second , that all his actions were onely for his seruice though not commaunded by him , yet in his owne nature and affection vrged therunto . For his chiefe good he was his addopted Prince , and that he knew it was his duty , he remembred euer more he was his father as his Soueraigne able , and as his father obliged . For the third that he was his Slaue , he woulde alleage for him in many kindes , he knewe that hee had done that , could not but from a Tyrant , bee required of his vassals , and the greater was his subiection heerein , that he was forced to commit that no Potentate could exact ( I say neither by law nor Conscienc● ) from his Slaues , neither any could therevnto be commaunded . This being spoken from him , who best knew his owne secretes , may be euerie way held enough for any to vnderstand sufficiently by : yet that hee is to be registred among none of the worst Princes , that could with such ease attain so great an Empire , hauing no iust Tytle therunto : but on the contrary , to be recorded among the famous ( I leaue to saye wherfore . ) vpon what groūd of reason was his greatnesse in the late Emp. daies , especially in the sonnes gouernment , being Protector . The pollicie of that time when he aymed at the kingdome , his election by generall consent , after the death of Pheodor Euaniwich , and the resignation of the Empresse his sist. Irenia Pheodurna . His many refusals to be Emperor , with the generall and perticular desire that he must take it : the necessity that one must speedily be chosen : his conditions in taking it , with entytling his son after him : the form of their Oaths to them both so soon as he was established : his wife-seeming and applausible Raigne , till the late demaunde made by Demetre , when he had gouerned 8. yeares , & thervpon his sudden death and other occurrents , whoe wisely scans , must acknovvledge him ( but only in his finall and fatall iudgment ) a prudent & pollitik Prince , as any times make mention of , & that if his latter end ansvvered not the expectation of so happy a begining , with a like prosperous continuance , It is in the like case to be demanded , why Acbitophel murdred himselfe , because ( in but one th●●● ) his councell was not followed : the true eccho returnes , ( because his councell was not followed ) and why Iudas would hang himselfe when he had betraied his master : the reason vvas ( He had betrayed his Mayster . ) Of this Emperour it is reported by Sir Ierom Horsey , in his writinges in M. Hacklayts workes , that the aforesayd Emperour when he was a Subiect , had 12000. li. yeerely , besides his places of Honour ; as beeing Protector , Gouernour of the Kingdomes of Cozan and Astracan , &c. Vnto which , Doctor Fletchers report agrees ; whereof 3500. Marks was giuen him by Pheodor Euanch at one time in one Sheire : And howsoeuer towards his ende , he grew very myserable and couetous ; which was not the least cause of his ouerthrow : insomuch as it was obserud , himselfe would often take notice of the passage to his Seller and Buttery . Not much vnlike ( in that kind ) one writes of the French King : Il ▪ feit d'argent auec ses dens , That he made Mony with his teeth . Yet when he aspired to the Empire , note his greatnesse , with his bountie ; first to Sir Ierom Bowes when he was there Ambassadour : then to Sir Ierom Horsey , when he was there Messenger , ( recorded by themselues ) yea euen to her late Maiestie of blessed memorie : the particulers are set downe in the fore-mentioned Booke of Voyages : notwithstanding what the lord of Pibrac obserues in his Quadrones , is fulfilled in this Emperour ▪ viz. Petite Source ont les grosses Riuieres : &c. Euen as from smallest Springs the greatest Riuers rise : So those that rore aloud , and proud at first , Runne seldome farre ; for soone their glorie dies In some neere Bogg , by their selfe-furie burst . Two pollecies of the sayd Emperour , I shall willingly acquaint you with , for diuers reasons . One was , when hee caused fire to be kindled in foure partes of Moskoe ; whereat himselfe was noted to be very diligent , with all his Nobles and Courtiers : and after it was quenched , he sent his Bountie to them all , that builded anew their Houses , and repayde all their losses : And this was but to stopp the Rumour then was so common , of his strange gayning the Empire : by which Stratagem of his , when his people were readie to Mutanie , they were created anew , good Subiectes ; yet did admire his not onely Care , but goodnes towards them all . A second , was at that time the Land was visited with a mighty Famine , and as great a Plague ( some foure yeares since ) whereof a third of the whole Nation is rate● to haue dyed : and the murmuring multitu●e sayd the cause was , their el●cting of a Murder●r to the Empire ; wherefore God did thus visite them : Wher●vpon , he caused G●lleries to be bui●ded round about the vtmost wall of the great cittie of Moskoe , and there appoynted d●yly to be giuen to the poore , twentie thousande pounds sterling : which was accordingly performed for one Month ; Wherevpon the Common peoples mouthes and bellies were well stopped . Yet notwithstanding he dyed , and that v●timely ; as a Noble man of Fraunce well sayth : Men seldome see Tyrants or vsurpers , liue long or temperatly ; or die well and naturally . Now if I can be thought blame worthy , which I conf●ss● , no not of them m●st partiall ; yet the mo●t that Natio● can ( if they would ) say any thing to mee , reueren●i●g an● approouing their owne prouerbes , is this : ( As the Dogge doth barke , the Winde carries it away ) : In answere whereof , I say ; it is the true nature and qualitie of a Dogge to barke , yet he seldome hurtes that so barkes : for our auncient Prouerbe is , The barking Dogge bites least , as the curstest Cow hath the Shortest Hornes . Heere we lodged till the 6. of May , beeing wearied with the inconstancie and ill-come newes of flying reportes , wherevpon the time of the yeere req●iring , the Ambassadour re●olued to passe downe the Riuer to Colmigro , as well that he might the sooner haue newes from England , as happely to be out of feare of any disaster , the rumours being so innumerable and vncertaine , as they were doudtfull , and fearefull ; and indeed the extraordinary care for the Ambassadours prouision , especially the large and well builded Boats , neuer the like i● memorie before , wrought in the peoples opinions many contrarieties , as obsurde as vntrue : One , that the young Prince necessarily , and personally , must bee , and was in English apparrell , within the Ambassadours lodging : Else , that it was vnpo●sible , that Great men should so willingly obey , and so earnestly commaund , for the ful content ●f all , in all thinges : Likewise else , where it was reported , that the Prince would come downe , and go ouer into England with the Ambassadour : Also , farre of from vs , it was sayd , that the Prince and the Ambassadour , were in Cheines to be sent vp to the Moskoe : But it repenteth me of relating thus much ; onely you may obserue hereby , their willingnes to rebell : also the wilfulnesse of the Commons , to be as great as their ignoraunce ; if not as sencelesse as their Intelligence : But we are on the faire and pleasant Riuer , within fiue faire and conuenient Boates , with two great Loddyackes for prouisions , rowing with winde and streame , from the ouerflowing Tyde of these reports ; and within twelue dayes are safely arriued at Colmigro , where we lodged at the Comp house ; surely the largest , tytest , and fairest in all the Countrie ; and of Ware-houses , Ambarres , & Work-houses as well accommodated . For our being at Colmigro , it was not much vnlike ( for the strangenes of reports , troublesomnes of the State , and mutable euents of time ) to that one , and the only vnhappie day of the vnfortunate ( too sudden rysing ) Earle of Essex ; wherein most mens mindes : for as many dayes as wee weekes , weare bewondred as much , with the not well directed beginning , as the vnhallowed sucsesse , or the bemoaned , ( Oh be it euer lamentable , such conclusions : but as farre different is the rarenes , as the goodnes betweene them ) ill-aduised well-intended , euer-good-resolutions in the one : ill-intended worse-enacted , neuer-good-conclusions in the other : One , as the vnhappie time-falling of a great Noble , with some others ; But by the goodnes of God , and the gratiousnes of our renowned King , within short and memorable time , restored in his posteritie , and theires . The other , the fatal● and finall ouerthrow of a mightie Emperour , and his all posteritie and famelie , neuer till the Resurrection , to be raysed : and then , Oh then , it is to be feared , to a terrible Iudgement for their high-offending , Heauen-crying-sinnes . Now I shall tell you of a 18. yeare esteemed dead Princes reuiuing of an other Pri●ces ( that twise 18. yeares might haue lyued ) poysoning , like ( and indeed not vnfit for the same ) Stage crowners , within one day dying and reuiuing ; as it were to make Time a lyer , who is the Sonne and Heire of Trueth . Of the Almighties prouidence , by the benefite of Patience , Innocencie of past-yeares , Right of Inheritaunce , and his iust Iudgement vpon the contrarie ; and to the eternall happines of this neuer yet ciuill Nation , in effecting his exceeding mercie ( that Ages wonderment ) this last yeere : But it will be a Laborinth to mee , as it were to rauish my selfe with , if not a Dylemma wherein I may ( not hauing the Art of Logicke or Rhetoricke ) needlesse , if at any time ( to my tyme and discourse , though incident to the general ) rather confound my selfe , then satisfie the Readers expectation , or euery particuler proprietie , it not onely beeing very tragicall and comicall in the euent : But as all such State-pollicies are beyond ordinary intellig●nce , or a writers honest patience ; but what Trueth hath been seruant , and my Ea●es subiect vnto , I will without either flatterie to the liuing , or enuie to the dead , c●mpendiously diliuer . Aft●r the suspitious death of the old Emperour Boris Pheodoricke , &c. by the appoyntment of the Prince ( then their exp●cted Emperou● ) and the Cou●sell , Peter Basma● ( that noble Sparke ) was speedely dispatched and sent a Generall vnto their ill ●ucceeding Warres , as their last hope , ( in deed hee prooued so in a co●trary sence ) and the onely refuge to the Commons : Wh●ther being come , ( bemeeting as you may imagine ) he insenced the Counsell , A louing and belou●d Prince , of such heroyicall spi●it , so worthy selfe-acting and politiq●e a Souldier , so generally good a Scholler , as being rep●rted to be both well Letterd , well traueld ; as great a Linguest as he was Statist ; feared , as being aleyed ; hee for speciall grace and fauour , who●e bount●e & curtesie , sent Defiance to Pride and Extortion ; in whom Industrie & Labour were twins , Innocensie and Freedome brothers ; that held Wisedome as his rest , True Valour as his Seruant , Flatterie as his Enemie , and Enuie as his Slaue ; not being him●elfe s●bi●ct to any greater Potentate . but Princely poue●tie ; Hee ( I say ) reuiewing the Maiestie of his person , and compari●g the age of his Youth with the gray heades of his Honour : not in all , but in eue●y particuler her●of , not lesse to this Nation then a Phenix ; was resolued , hee could not lesse be than ( beeing a Prince of so many Vertues ) the Heire of the Kingdome , his Emperour , Lord and Maister : whereupon hee speeded with the winges of Hope , Honour , and Confidence , to deliuer himselfe in such an infected and pestiferous a time , to the handes of him either whose Enemie beeing , he was without beeing ; or whose Subiect and Patient receiued , hee might well fall away ; but neither from his right Soueraigne , nor Loyaltie : Also he prostrate● , or presented most of his Commaund , as many as freely would offer themselues : Vnder which , were all the English , Scots , French , Dutch and Flemings , whatsoeuer : and with him , or rather before him ( as lea●t suspected ) Ries Vasili Euanch Goleeche , the other Generall a man of great birth , and in the prioritie of place , to be receiued before P. Basman . All which , the now well knowne newly opinionated Emperour very gratiously receiued , happely not without some iealowsie of many particulers ; as of the Generals , the world surmizing a former correspondence to be hel● euer since a Parle ha● , at what time he was besiedged , and is aforesaid to performe very honorable seruice ; and for the same had so applausable a receiuing by the olde Emperours appoyntment into the Moskoe . After this Generall , from the Prince and Counsell was foorthwith sent many thousand Rolles or Markes , they euer hauing the discretion of wi●e and politique States to account it as the Nerues and Sinewes ; but now were perswaded it would prooue the Soule and Hart of the Warres : but the generall receiued , he could not accept it and his Generall , being offered it by the faythfull treasorers , would not , but gaue them this answere . Hee would , they that sent that ( though in-directly to him ) should know , Hee who had the Patience to forbeare a Tyrant vsurper , sitting vpon his Throne so long ; And hitherto of himselfe ( by his stranger Friends ) had thus happely and farre , entered into his Right , could not now want that should incourage those noble Spirites , fought with him in so iust a quarrell : neither did he hold it Princelike , to receiue , from his Enemie in that kinde , especially by their hands could not shew their face without blushing to their commaunding Lord : Yet when hee came to receiue the Crowne and Kingdome , ( which he assured himselfe and them , would be very shortly ) hee doubted not this monegs would be then infinitely increased , as should be his honour , and their affection . So hee let them haue safe conduct to depart . This falling away of them , the State so greatly blinded vpon ( especially Peter Basman , whom I neither dare commend , nor will condemne , because I am not studious in his arguments : and the answere from the Emperour ) with the many continually doubts of the issue , hastied the last breath of the once hoped-for Prince , as from him that ( though an Fmperour , was much hoodwinck● by his politique kinsmen great counsellours ) now might easilie discerne those times to outrun his , and must notoriously know ( though happely his youth and innocencie shadowed the reflection ) that his Sonne was setting or beclouded at noone-dayes , and that the right heire was ( and would be when he was not ) apparant : that his fathers Empire and Gouernment , was but as the Poeticall Furie in a Stage-action , compleat yet with horrid and wofull Tragedies : a first , but no second to any Hamlet ; and that now Reuenge , iust Reuenge was comming with his Sworde drawne against him , his royall Mother , and dearest Sister , to fill vp those Murdering Sceanes ; the Embryon whereof was long since Modeld , yea digested ( but vnlawfully and too-too viue-ly ) by his dead selfe-murdering Father : such and so many being their feares and terrours ; the Diuell aduising , Despaire counselling , Hell itselfe instructing ; yea , wide-hart-opening to receiue a King now , rather than a Kingdome ; as L. Bartas deuinely sayth : They who expect not Heauen , finde a Hell euery where . These wicked instruments , the whole familie of the Godonoues , their adherents and factors , making a second ( but no deuine ) damned Iurie ; these deiected and abiected , as not knowing how to trust any , they so distrusted themselues , like men betweene murdering others , and being massacred them selues ; holding this their onely happinesse , that they were then onely myserable ( Noblenesse yet esteeming any preferment felicitie , but Honorable imployment ) : As those whose vnmercifull greatnes gayned a pittifull commiseration , accounting Securitie neither safetie , nor reward ; Indeed they were like Beastes , that haue st●ength , but not power . Oh for some excellent pen-man to deplore their state : but he which would liuely , naturally , or indeed poetically delyneare or enumerate these occurrents , shall either lead you therevnto by apoeticall spirit , as could well , if well he might the dead liuing , life-giuing Sydney Prince of Poesie ; or deifie you with the Lord Salustius deuinity , or in an Farth-deploring , Sententious , high rapt Tragedie with the noble Foulk-Greuill , not onely giue you the Idea , but the soule of the acting Idea ; as well could , if so we would , the elaborate English Horace that giues number , waight , and measure to euery word , to teach the reader by his industries , euen our Lawreat worthy Beniamen , whose Muze approues him with ( our mother ) the Ebrew signification to bee , The elder Sonne , and happely to haue been the Childe of Sorrow : It were worthy so excellent rare witt : for my selfe I am neither Apollo nor Appelles , no nor any heire to the Muses : yet happely a younger brother , though I haue as little bequeathed me , as many elder Brothers , and right borne Heires gaine by them : but Hic labor , Hoc opus est . I am with the late English quick-spirited , cleare-sighted Ouid : It is to be feared Dreaming , and thinke I see many strange and cruell actions , but say my selfe nothing all this while : Bee it so that I am very drowsie , ( the heate of the Clymate , and of the State ) will excuse mee ; for great happinesse to this mightie Empire is it , or would it haue been , if the more part of their State aff●yres had been but Dreames , as they prooue phantasmaes for our yeares . But imagine ( as trueth is in the imagination ) the new receiued Emperour hath written twise or thrise to the Ould and new Emperours , ( if so be I may ●ow call them ) and their priuie Counsell , ( which Letters you must know are intercepted by the Godonoues , and their Secreataries ) wherein he demaunds his Right and Inheritance ; and prooues himselfe Heire very directly , with their resolution herein ; and that he was therevnto not onely vnanswered , but his Messengers retayned , tortured ; and some executed : wherevpon ( much troubled ) he con●ulted with his Nobles , and many great Associates new come vnto him , and yet resolueth once more to send vnto their supposed Emperour , and many the great Boyeryres priuie Counsellors perticulerly : for so he did , and writ his Princely Letters to them , sending them by men of courage , birth , and wisedome ; also giuing them authoritie thereafter , who beeing dispatched , are come into their Slobada or Suburbes , where the multitude of the Commons ( retyred long before within the first Gate ) came flocking vnto them without Authoritie , demaunding what they were : ( For you must vnderstande this was as a Cittie besiedged within it selfe , and at warres within her owne walles : her Engine ( if so he could bee that is now their Emperour ) beeing 200. verse from them : also , they required what their Message was : ( Ignoraunce now not beeing the Mother of Deuotion , but the Father of Peace ) and to whom they were sent , and ( out of order ) from whom ? It was aunswered , that they were sent from their right & lawfull Emperour D. E. Vandh . &c. to the Vsurpers Sonne , and many of the Priuie Counsell ; and that if in obedience to their lawfull Prince , they would guarde them into the Cittie , and safe conduct them to a cheefe Street therein , they would not onely satisfie them in reading those letters so neerely conscerning them all , but they should be then most happie , when they vnderstood how vildly and slauishly that had been vsed by the Godonoues ; and how by the Almighties power , their right K. was lyuing , and required their obedience herein : and hee that late gouerned them , to be an Vsurper , and his Sonne but as heire thereunto . Thus the Commons , who euer are desirous of change and nouelties ; and knew full illy , well they could not haue a more Tyrant : also , seeing them to be resolute and confident ( as any wise man , considering their beeing ) must confesse , & also knowne men of great birth ; and also of the late Boris his Enemies : indeed thereunto ledd by the Spirit of God , as they were strengthed with his all-sufficient power , ( if I might so speake ) they in infinite numbers , brought them safe into the spacious Plaine before the Castle gate : within which , as dayly they did vse , so now were all the Counsellers in consultation ; but happily not in a secret Counsayle ; also wherein was the Emperiall Court. There these Boyeryns made demaunde for many of the Counsellers , especially for the Godonoues , to come to heare their right K. D. E. speaking vnto them by Letters ▪ Who yet after refusall ( and I cannot condemne all ) many came ; the Commons being resolued , else to fetch them out ; all alleadging , their guiltines to be so great , and to bee so ashamed as they were astonished , with the long deluding and mocking the common and their new tryall of all their treasons . But one , by the mouth of the golden tonged Chaunsellor or Secretarie ( hee thereunto commaunded by the P. and Nobilitie then in counsell ) indeed the onely Orator and Populer man among them , was required the reason of that strange assemblie , tending to little lesse ( indeed too much more ) then a Mutinie : also the Boyeryns countenauncing them herein ; alledging they needed not so to assemble themselues vndutifully and disobediently , that by petition might haue any request aunswered , as hauing so mercifull , milde , and humble-harted a Prince ; As when the time mourning for his deare Father was performed , ( which is 6. weekes ) and his Coronation , with his former Princes magnificense and state obs●rued , they all should conf●sse him to bee , till ●hen th●ir Cou●trie L●wes did not a●mit of publicke or priuate suites in ●xtra●rdinary persons or particulers , &c. but in such Language this was deliuered , as hee might well supply t●e Tongues office : But the affection of the heart powred not out this Oration . Then , by the Boyeryers aloude was read the Emperours Letters , to this effect . That hee much woondred at that time , wherein expedition was to be accounted safest pollicie , hauing s●nt many Letters & Messengers to them , concerning their approouing him to be their lawfull Prince , as beeing the Sonne of Euan Vasulrach their late Emperour , and the onely brother of Pheodor Euanchers selfe-vpholder , of happie memorie , both with inuincible argumentes and direct reasons to the manifesting thereof , they ( notwithstanding his long patience and gratious remisness● ) were not onely so proude as not to answere his Princely Letters , but so presumptuous as to retaine his Messengers , whereby they made themselues apparantly to be no lesse Vipers to the State in obscuring him , then Traytors to himselfe the true and right Emperour , by defrauding them : yet giuing him a strong Argument by their Silence , of their guiltinesse ; also allowing thereby , time and opportunitie ( if he had not been their true-borne Emperour , and with the naturall Mother , tendered the life of her deare Children ) to haue conquered & destroyed the whole Nation ; a●ding thereunto , the loue of the many and dayly falling to his side of the Mightie ; whilst they like either vnworthy , or vnwise Counsellers ( blinded with Honour and partialities ) securely slept in their particuler strength , ignorant of this Principle , That where the Members are disioynted and broke , the Head and Heart suffer of necessitie . All which notwithstanding , hee ( beeing confident in his owne conscience , of his iust Tytle , made the Prince of patience and humilitie from his former many great myseries and dangers ) had in his princely wisedome and clemencie againe wrote these ( but certainely his last Peace-requiring , and Grace-offering Letters : yea , was content to desire them hee might , ) and doubted not shortly but hee should commaund , onely ayming at the good of the Common-wealth and State in generall ; as he that without much shedding of his Subiectes blood , desired the Kingdome . Also to this end hee had sent ●en of great birth , viz. Rues Pheodor , Euanrich Methithsosky , and Rues Demetre , Euanrich Suskey ; and giuen them Commission to displace his Enemies , and prestaue the Godonoues , & others , till his further pleasure were knowne , consuming those monstrous blood-suckers and Traytors , with returne of the Commons answere therevnto : Likewise to demaunde his Messengers , and they to be brought before the Commons , whom he had reason to beleeue , were ill intreated , if not murthered ; withall , that if they did submit themselues now to him , as to their lawfull Prince and Soueraigne , ( which he was truely resolued their Consciences were guiltie of ) that yet they should finde him a gratious and mercifull Lord ; if otherwise , a seu●ere and iust Reuenger of them , and their many misdeeds towardes him , as hee that had his Sword euer vnsheathed to execute his vengeance on them all : and was easely perswaded they were not ignorant of the many Victories hee had obtayned , formerly against them , when they would seeme able and willing to fight with his Souldiers : and how afflicted and troubled herewith they all were : But that now , hee had their chiefe & strongest heades and armes in his owne hande , the whole world might not betroth him they durst once speake openly against him , as assured all ( excepting a very few , and they of the worst ) in heart , were his loyall Subiectes . Of all these premises , hee wished them from the highest to the lowest , seriously and considerately to aduise and reinforme their iudgements , for that hee was foorthwith determined , and that peremptorily of a course , as greatly to their terrifiyng and horrour , as verily not agreeable to his nature and Princely disposition : and how vehemently and earnestly hee desired of God , to regaine his Inheritaunce , and to be Inthroned in his Fathers and Mothers Empire without blood ; hee onely was the witnesse to his Conscience , should bee the Iudge of his Innocencie , if it did so come to passe withall , that hee had humbly beseeched of the Almightie , that as he had miraculously and wonderfully preserued him from many dangers , sorrowes , and myseries , to this happie time ; so that it would please him to graunt him wisedome , patience , and mercifuln●sse , to si●t in his Fathers and Mothers Throne without shedding of innocent blood , if possible to the shedding of one drop . &c. But before this Princely Letter was halfe read , the hearts and hands of the multitu●e were strangly combinde together , not one speaking , but all confusedly like letterde and chayned Horses stamping ; being indeed without any feare , but of not doing mischiefe enough , all ( as one ) running violently into the Castle ( where meeting two of the pitifully tormented Messengers ) they paused to heare them as sufficiently as their insufficiencie would permit them delyuer the vil●e manner of their torturing whipping & rosting , which was in deed a Whippe and Spurre to driue them without witte or humanitie , as if they had been fyred like Gunpowder with the very spa●kes of heate : Such barbarous crueltie , beastly actions , and inhumane spectacles , as without the great Diuell had been there generall , no particuler could haue enacted ; laying violent handes on all they met : but not killing ( the great mercie of God! ) any man of account . Thus the whole Cittie was in an vproare , all the Couns●ll●rs Houses Sellers , and Studies , ransacked , begi●ning with the Godonoues ; spoyling , r●nting , and s●ealing all they met with ; but carrying little away but drinke , that they could not carrie away ; for beginning to stagger in the Sellers , they left their Wittes in the Butteries , and layde downe th●ir eyes in the Kitchens ; so as the ●ext day , by reason of th● many were madd and dead druncke , this day well-nigh ●oo ▪ persons ran into forgetfulnesse , beeing past life by their former lesse of vnderstanding . The Commons ( no doubt ) would haue made this day little infe●iour to the Mass●cre of Paris , so violent & diuelish were their sudden resolutions ; but that the Nobles ( b●st beloued and obeyed ) intreat●d , where none could commaund : others perswading ; all wishing an ende to this most myserable and neuer exampled mischiefe . But the multitu●e did what they would and could ; especially on the greatest , which certainely were the worst : So as the Empresse flying to a safer Lodging , had her Col●er of Pearle pluckt from her necke , & yet a happie creature that she so escaped ; which she not easily did : but the young P. in●eed ha● no greater punishment or disgrace ( too much for a P. to beare ) profered him , than to be pittied by such Slaues , that had not the sence of E●uie of the Nobles : many lost Peards and Havre , as if the French Disease had possest them ; surely t was no inferiour Euill that did worke this . Few mens houses , as the Stranger Doctors , or Marchants with their owne , escaped ransacking : yea , such was their miserable pouerty , they stript many to their very skinne , that a man might haue seene an Armie of Adams covering , ( and in their transgressing Gardens ) their Nakednesse , with Leaues , as ashamed not onely for their poore beeing , but their inhumane suffering ; Parents intreating , Children we●ping , Wiues raging , the Richer punished , whilst the pittifull poore ouerruled : And though the Nobles kept many places , and made strong the chiefest , they could not resist the multitude there , thought such a drunken kind their onely heauen , lyuing many yeares without the vse and effect thereof : But weeried & woried with their owne long deuotion in God Bacchus Temples , many slept , the more sufferd , whilst the most least repented their bringing this stra●ge Iudgement to a happie vnhappie conclusion . Then the Prince , Emperour , and Princ●sse , were prestaued ( a second Commaund beeing come from the Campe ) with the Godonoues , and many others that were suspected most : The Nobles ioyning in one Counsell for the present ordering of these suddaine accidents , and for answere to the P. Dem. Euanich , who suddenly was by generall consent concluded ( by the perticular knowledge of Bodan Belskey a great Counseller , that was pri●ie to his departure , and some others ) to be their right and lawfull Emperour , only a few excepted , that could be true subiectes to none , because vnfaythfull to themselues , such were imprisoned forthwith . Thus began the greatnes of Demetre ; and his right became apparant : but as it happens for the more part in such vnvsuall and rare accidents ( as the deposing of Princes and States-men ) Tragicall eue●tes fail one in the necke of another so n●cessarily here ▪ for now whilst the good were in consulting for the well ordering of this yet perplexed state , the euill were plotting more mischeefe by new stratagems and pollicies : for the verie soule of Enuie was crased in this body , that the twins of Tirannie and Crueltie , stroue for prioritie of byrth . And not more ingenious & industrious were some in deuising for the raysing of the old Emperour and his posteritie in times past , than ( to be accounted constant ) now the same villanous States-men were laborious and wickedly wilfull to ouerthrow them : hauing no reason but a selfe-norishing pittie , to be accompanied to the place of of Repentance and Punishment . So as the young Prince was by many ( but particulerly by his mother Iezabell ) counselled to leaue the Kingdome vtterly , before it forsooke him ; to follow his Fathers good example in murdering himselfe , and herein his Mother ( that Mapp of Miseries , that Cradle of Crueltie ) and his on●ly deare Sister , would associate him . Letters were deuised , and Messengers framed to effect this desperate Treacherie on his innocent life ; so as in very few dayes ( for Mischiefe hath the winges of Thought and Resolution , they three did consent ( an vnhappie coniunction ) to destroy themselues ; and rather to laye violent handes vpon their hate-full liues , then make an Enemie seeme cruell in executing Iustice on them : which yet certainely this Emperour neuer dreamt of , but determined the Prince should be within himselfe , not lesse then Absolute , and in a very great Dukedome : Yet behold , nor Hope , nor Pittie , nor Greatnes once comforted them ; but as if selfe-Crueltie had been equiti● of Conscience , the Mother omitting the tender affection of her Children , the Sonne neglecting the naturall loue to his Mother , the Sister condemning her selfe in eyther : Man forgetting ( besides the 4. cardenall vertues ) his principall vertue , Patience : Women despising Modestie and Bashfulnesse , would giue the wanton world a president to runne Death out of countenance without selfe-blushing : They would ( Oh vnspeakable myserie that they did ) poyson themselues . The Princely mother began the health of Death to her noble Sonne , who pledgd her with a hartie draught , therein so much strength did he add to his vild wicked obedience , that he prooued a Banquerour presently : Yes hand in hand ( as hart in hart ) imbracing each other , they fell , and dyed as one , the Mother counselling and acting , whilst the child bethought and suffered : Yet see Prouidence and Commisseration , Constancie and Obedienc● ; the Princesse dranke , but like a Virgin temperatly : so as ( the want of modesty ( which was the death of the Moth●r ) now proued the life of the daughter . Presently after this Tragedie came into the Chamber , many great men where they were saluted with a dol●fall welcome , the Emperour that might haue been , and his Mother ( that was ) imbracing each other euen in the kinde armes of death , ●ast all hope : but the young , Princesse only groueling , and assured of breath therein , to bee a motherlesse and brotherlesse Virgin , from whom was learnd ●he maner of their behauiour ; which is sayd to be very resolute in the Empresse , pittifull in the Emperour , lamentable in both . Certainely a wicked Tree was it to beare such faire but vntimely Fruite . Vpon the ground was a seald Letter from the dead Emperour to the living ( some report it was sent before his poysoning , not answered before he poysoned , it being forthwith ; but it matters little the time or circumstance , onely the trueth is necessarie ) : and to this purport it was written by his owne industrious handes . Though the vaine world may innocently condemne vs of pusilla●ymitie , that beeing the true Sonne and Heire to so great aud mightie an Emperour ( as our late Father of happie & sweete remembrance Boris Pheodorich , of all Rushia Emperour and selfe-vpholder was ) , hee being there vnto elected by so generall a consent , and the like importunitie and besech of the Byshops , Counsellours , Nobles , and Commons of their Empire , vndertaking the gouernment thereof meerely of pittie , without the least motion of pride or popularitie , onely to sati●fie them all in generall , rather then in any p●rticular to please himselfe , but in happying and blessing them withall his Princely and contionerie conditions thereafter : that wee his onely Sonne so beloued of the mightie and many , so reuerensed of the good and religious , will f●r many princely arguments approued of by our selfe and our grauer Counsell ( notwithstanding a double oath of the most to our Emperiall dignitie , lawfull succession and inheritance ) in person come into the field with an inuincible Armie to make good our cause against thee : yet doth it not befit such a mightie Prince as thou eyther art , or wouldest bee thought , so cruelly and vniustly to determine of our selfe , our royall Moth●r , and no lesse deare and princely Sister ; of which wee are informed , thou thy selfe of vs art resolued . Thou shouldest wisely and thankefully haue remembred thy ow●e hard fortunes , and as myraculous a prese●uing , with our inn●censie and youth : and that wee b●th were or have thought our selues ( if so to bee wee are yet worthy ) great Princes Sonnes , and Christians : yea , and more happynes and glory would it haue been to thee , sitting on thy deare Fathers Throne to rule his p●ople with equitie and iustice , then to haue b●en accounted his Sonne in tyrranie a●d blood . Litle cause shall this Nation haue to hope of a mercifull and iust Prince , that begins thus to terrifie and condemne the Innocent . What ● it were graunted ? Wee haue no right ; yet our Father was el●cted ? Doe wee resist thee ? Dost thou not ( or will not blood-thirstie greatn●ss let thee ) vnderstand what an Innocent in yeeres and Counsell wee then were , and yet haue been ? What if wee were perswaded thou art the right , yet there are many , many , that neuer will bee ? and the greater are their arguments , as thy cruelties a●d pollicies . But that thou shalt perceiue wee neuer did resolue to keepe thee from thy Inheritaunce ( if of thy Iustice and true Title thereunto wee were but reasonably le● ) notwithstanding our Princely and safe Intelligence , behold for thee our only Enimy we sacrifize our selfe : behold how Innocencie & Youth , like the Twins of affection , are ma●e guiltie in themselues , and wee are an Vsurper to our selfe onely : Yet be not thou hardned here with , nor yet reioyce herein , least neither bemeetes thy dignitie : but bee thou rather ( if not at least ) the true heire to Vertue , yet like a King in Pittie : and assure thy selfe , wee die not for feare of thee , but for loue to our selfe : not desparing of thy mercy , but for our preuenting thy iustice , as he that thinks hopelesse benefite a comfort , then presumption ; fo● wee die but to conteyne our owne burthen : yet with a much better resolution , then eythe● sel●e-co●ceite , or inthrald cowardize can be witnes of , as he that had much rather be condemn●d , than by accusing En●mies spared to be ius●ified inde●d on●ly for thy expected Seruants , our beloued and louing Subictes , who wee know dearely would purchase our life and libertie , for them wee doe thus lay violent hands on our p●ttied , but not hatefull l●fe , as hee that esteemes it more worth to die an innoce●t , then liue , it but deemed death worthy : for greater sorrow shoul● wee sustaine to suffer without desert , then thus to die without compassion . Shall not the Earth say , Thou weart the cause ? yes , yes . All Pri●ces wordes are Lawes , or should be ; yet oft times vnlawfull or vnmercifull be their entents and actions . May the world report wee were our owne murderer ? If they can , yet let them remember onely if our selfe iustice , but of our innocent selfe : and better were it for any one Innocent , then many Innocents should perish : for so thy freinds shall be more and thy loue greater when , wee that are thy Ryuall are departed : yet imagine with what ioy or sorrow wee imbrace death , that breath our last in that bosome wee first receiued our beeing ; and be perswaded our selfe , our deare Mother and sweete Sister , drinke onely for thee this Cupp of Lyres ; So bee thou a King , and thy posteritie Princes , as thou hast right to our late Empire , and art iust to thy Enemies , louing to thy Subiectes , mercifull to the poore ; and so be thou euer p●osperous : Thus thou mayst be assured of vs. Lo thus wee dearely go to Heauen . These Funerall speeches being afterward deliuered to the Emperour , h●e fell into teares vppon reading them , mixing much gracious language of the young Prince , amongst his bemoninges of his fortunes : And hearing some speake vnreuerently of his Father , hee checkt them in these wordes . It ill beseemeth any , much lesse his Subiectes , and those who had elected him , to wound his Honour ( now hee lyes dead ) whom lyuing they kneeled to , as their lawfull Emperour , if not as right Heire , but as approued by the generall voyces of the States . Then he gaue commaundement , that all those who had the keeping of the yong Prince , should be imprisoned till his further pleasure were knowne ; and that the Mother and Sonne , should bee basely and obscurely huried : which accordingly was done . The old Emperour Borris his body being likewise taken from the royall Monument where it first was layde , to bee buryed with theirs in a meane Church within the Mosco . Before we carry you any further , it shall not bee amisse to place before your eye the picture of the young Prince : who was in countenaunce effeminate , in tongue faire and quicke : his speach ( like his body ) high and great : charitable to the poore ( which his Father was not ) bountifull to the mightie ; an indifferent rewarder both of the Vertuous and Valorous . The lyuing thus hauing made the dead serue as Stayres to lift him vp into a Throane , each one held ●t safest insudome to flye ( with the formost ) into ●he Campe , there to make their peace : by which meanes they flocked in troopes ; beeing dryuen therevnto eyther through feare of present dangers , or of tempestes to come . But their rightfull Emperour ( casting behinde him all thoughts of precedent actions ) onely ●pplyed himselfe to the present receiuing those that came vnto him , with princely , and kind embracementes , esteeming himselfe then to be an absolute Prince ; when hee could so subdue his owne affections , as to forgiue his Enemies ; yea those that were accounted Arch-traytors and Bloody-tyrantes . Besides , hee held it a good part of wisedome , not to detaine any by force ( as his predecessors did ) within the Countrey , not suffering any to enter ; but rather made it knowne , that all his Dominions should be free for euery Subiect to goe foorth , and euery Stranger to come in : by which meanes ( besides the honour of beeing styled the First Emperour that made the State Free ) he should ( through commerce with other nations ) inrich his owne , and propagate the fame and greatnesse of his name and Empire . Thus suddenly he became of a Poore and il-attended Prince , a mightie Emperour : his Commaund reaching and swaying almost as much as a third part part of Europe comes to ; colleaguing himselfe to many potent Princes , especially the mightie Polacke , ( heretofore the most mortall Enemie to the Russie ) and euen from his Campe ( now his royall Court ) hee wrote his Princely Letters to all Citties , Townes , and Villages , appoynting Noblemen to take their Oathes to his Maiestie : which in all places was willingly performed . In the number of all which Letters , taking knowledge of an English Ambassadors residence in the Country ( tho 2000. myles from his Campe ) and calling to minde the peace and amity held betweene the Princes of England and his predecessors , he wrote vnto the English Agent ; who was departed from the Mosco towards the Sea side : but by good fortune ( vpon some speciall occasion ) returned backe againe , and receiued this gratious Letter , presenting himselfe at that time , before the Counsell : Which being translated out of the originall , is here set downe . Demetrie Euaniwich Emp. and great Duke of all Rushia , selfe-vpholder , &c. to Iohn Merick Agent for the English Marchants . &c. VVHereas by the mighty hand , infinite mercie , and almighty prouidence of God , we are happily , and with the full consent of all our louing Subi●ctes , not without admiration to the world , receiued and betrothed to our Right and dignitie , euen the Throne and Communion table of our Regall Father Euan Valsiliwich , and our noble Brother Pheodor Euanriuch , both of happie and famous memorie , selfe-vpholders : Wee , remembring the Amitie and friendship first concluded in the raigne of our deare Father Euan Vasiliwich , famous with all Christian Princes , especlally with the noble Princes of England are resolved of our Princely dispositiō , to be in greater league and amitie now with this renowned King Iames , then any our predecessors haue been with all Princes : And to that purpose resolve to fauour his Seruantes and Marchantes more then any our predecessors ; and forthwith after our personall Coronation , are determined to send our Ambassadours to his excellent Maistie to that purpose . Further , that thou Iohn the Sonne of W. after the receipt of these our Princely Letters , and the dispatch of thy Marchant-affaires , at our Castle of the Ark-Angell , then to returne to our greart and famous Cittie of Mosco , there to behold our cleare and Princely Eyes : And to this purpose we haue giuen order for Post-horse for thee , as also for thy appearaunce before our Chancellor Offonasse Euanouch Naseueo . Written at our Royall Campe at Tode . 8. Iune . 7103. The Agent ( vpon receipt of these Letters ) with M. Russell ( sometimes Agent for the Dutch , and his now Brother in law ) prepared to meete the Emperour before he should come to the Mosco ; before whom being brought by the Chancelor , the Agent ( in name of his Brethren ) deliuered vnto him a worthy Present ; which he graciously accepted , and withall , vttering thus much in effect . That whereas it had pleased God so miraculously to preserue him , and so gloriously to establish him in the Throne of his Auncestors : It would please him , to looke vppon the English Merchauntes , with the same eyes as they haue done : In doing which , hee should not onely merite their loues , but no Nation would be more thankefull vnto him . &c. The Emperour returned many gratious words , much to the effect of his former Letters , but more amply ; and then inuited them to dinner in his royall Tent ( beeing set vp of purpose to entertaine a King of the Tartares , that was his Subiect . So after a bounteous Feast , many noble speeches , and a Princely welcome , they were dismissed for that time : but within few dayes after , the Agent delyuered ( in the name of the Ambassadour ) somuch as he had Commission and instructions for , of him : which Message was most acceptable , and receiued with protestations of desired Peace and Amitie with the King of England ; for which purpose , hee had alreadie appoynted one of his Courtiers speedily to poast vnto the English Ambassadour . Vpon our departure from Colmogra , to the Ark-Angell , the Agent came to the Ambassadour from the Emperour , with order for his free Post-horse and Men to conducte him ; and that no Custome should be demaunded of any Englishman , appertayning to the Ambassadour . And that the Courtier ( who was to be sent ) should follow him very speedily : for the English Shippes had been at the Castle fourteene dayes before : wherevpon , the Ambassadour rowed downe the Riuer , and the next day following , came to the Ark-Angell ; where wee were met with many Shipmaisters and Muskets to the number of an hundred : The Shippes ( aswell English as Dutch ) discharged their Peeces lyberally : But this Triumph was altered in a moment into Sadnesse . For vppon our landing , a fayre new Shippe ( called the Globe ) the Maister , Maister and his Father , beeing owners of her , was vtterly lost in our sight , by meanes of a Mynion bursting in the Gun-roome ; where foure Barrels of Powder standing by , one of them beeing not well couered , the rest tooke fire , blew vp all the Sterne , slew the Gunner and his Mate ; hurt the Maister , his Mate , and some sixe others , whilst the Shippe splitting in sunder , suncke presently ; to the exceeding sorrow of all the beholders . Hither ( within few dayes after ) came from the Emperor a Courtier , named Gauarello Samollorich Sallmanoue , that had been Ambassadour to the K. of Denmarke : ( a Gentleman of great birth , and well in yeares ) to signifie to the Ambassadour the Emperours desire to enter into Bondes of peace and amitie with the King of England : And this was an extraordinarie grace of the Emperour done to the Ambassadour , if wee consider the Person that was sent , the Message , and the Myles hee so poasted ouer , for feare the Ambassadour should bee gone . T●e Message which he brought was much to the purp●s● of tha● Conference held with the Emperour and the Ag●nt ; the che●fest branch of all , bei●g a re●ouation o●●h●● League now betweene ●ot● the Ki●g●●mes of Englan● and Rushia , which was b●twee●● the late Q Elizabeth ( his deare and ki●d Sister ) and his Father : and with a protestation to be in greater amitie & correspondence with th● King of England , then euer any of his predecessors had b●en with other Kinges thereof ; for better manifestation of which , all the sayd K. Iames his Subi●cts shall haue surer libertie then euer they had before . Adding further , that his personall Coronation being performed , Ambassadours should be sent to salute and congratulate his louing Brother of England . &c. The Ambassadour herevpon , not onely sent thos● Letters which he had receiued from the late Emperour Borris , but also ( by twentie Liueries ) a Present worth 100. Markes : And within one weeke aft●r this Courtiers departure , we hastned our owne , because the season of the yeere so require● . The day before our departure , by reason of some wrong done to an English Saylor by a Russe , a great tumult arose : in which the Common people ( with stones and billets ) behaued themselues so furiously , that the English-house gates were broken open , their chambers in perill to be rifled , their windowes throwne downe , and their ware-houses violently entred vpon , yea some aged Merchantes very euilly intreated : Insomuch that the Ambassadour himselfe stood not free from the daunger : to reuenge which , both English and Dutch manned out their boates , to haue gone on shore with some shot , but by intreatie they were staide , and all vvas pacified , not without some hurt on both sides , but most of the Russes . The next day ( being the sixth of Iuly ) the Ambassadour beeing accompanied with mayster Iohn Mericke , diuers Merchantes and others , passed ( in his Cherdeck ) the Riuer of Dvyna , the shipps then lying at the Barr-foote for a Winde , which not hauing , we vvent on boord vpon the twenty eight of Iulye , beeing compelled notwithstanding to staye heere seauen daies , both for winde and Water to carry vs away , which the Countrey ( hauing hadde our companye of many monthes togither ) seemed to deny vs , as vnwilling to license our departure . Yet on the 8. day following , we went ouer the Bar , not without some daunger of the Sands , which by the prouidence of God , and the care and cuning of maister William Wye , ( our pilot and maister ) we happilie escaped , and very ioyfully arriued vppon the sweet shores of our owne natiue Countrey England , &c. The state of Rushia when Borris Pheodorvvich came to be Emperour . OVr Voyage is ended , yet must I now intreate your immaginations to be carried backe againe into Rushia , where you shall receiue so much and such perfect Newes , as will make vp the precedent matter into a pleasing History . Vnderstand therefore , that the old Emperor Euan Vassiliwich , dying , left two Sonnes behind him , ( Viz ) Pheodor Euannowich the eldest , ( vvho succeeded the father in his Empire ) and Demetrie the yongest ( an infant . ) Pheador being giuen to deuotion , and neglecting the State and dignity due to a Prince , was held but simple , insomuch that by the secret workings of Bodan Belskey , ( who was chiefe Minion to the olde Emperour Euan Vassiliwich ) in hope of honours and preferment , procured Boris ( who was brother to the then Empresse ) to be created Protector ouer Pheador , who vpon his present● comming to the Crowne , sent his mother in Law , with her father and mother ( defending of the house of the Nagayes ) and his yong brother Demetre , to a place called Ouglets , where he was to bee Nursed . Pheadors raigne beeing expired , and his brother vnfit to rule ( being but an infant ) Boris set vp such ladders , that from a protector he was aduanct to be Emper. Bodan Belskey afore named , Andrea Shulcan , and Andrea Clyskenine , being his there instruments that wrought for him . But Boris growing weary of their presence , by whom he was mounted so hie , and thinking that he must euer holde himselfe bound vnto them , laid plots in his braines howe to be rid of such creditors , which he did , by throwing discontents vpon one of them and a slightly-regarding of the other . Whereupon Bodan Belskey left the Courte . But the other two prying into Borris his actions , signified from time to time , all matters to Bodan , who ( knowing the ambitious thirst of Borris to extirpate the race of Euan Vassiliwich himselfe now but an Vsurper ) took deliberation with the old Empresse ( mother to Demetre ) for the preseruation of the child . And seeing a farre off , arrowes aimed at his life , which could very hardly be kept off , it was deuised to exchange Demetre for the child of a churchman ( in yeares and proportion somewhat resembling him ) whilst the other ( by this meanes ) might liue safe , though obsure . This counterfet Churchmans sonne being then taken for the lawful Prince , was attended on and associated according to his State : with whome one day , another child , ( that was appointed to bee his play-fellow ) disporting themselues , finding faulte that the collor which the supposed Demetre wore about his necke ( as the fashion of the Countrey is ) stoode awry , preparing to mende it , with a sharpe knif ( prouided as seems of purpose ) cut his throat . The report of this arriued presently at court : the Vsurper makes shew of much lamentation , yet to satisfiy the people & seat himself faster in his throne , the dead body was openly showne three daies , to the eyes of all men . Many arguments were drawne to make the world beleeue , that Boris sonne sought the death , of this his brother in lawes childe , and to weane the peoples loues and hopes they had from him , as first to haue it spred abrod , that Demetre was like to proue like his father , that 's to say , a Tyrant because , euen in his childhood , he tooke delighte to see Hennes and Chickens kilde , and to bath his hands in the blood : adde vnto this , the poisoning of his Nurse : besides , it was forbidden to haue him praied for , as the rest of the Emperors children wer because hee should be vtterly forgotten . To conclude an old ouer-worne law buried long in forgetfulnes was now againe freshly reuiued , and that was , That the child of a sixt wife was not to inherit . ( yet the murder beeing acted ) Boris the vsurper , to blind the eies of the world , and to weare a cunning maske ouer his owne , Sent a noble man with diuers others to take strict examination of each particular circumstance , and to imprison all those that had the guardiaunce of him , yea to put some of them to tortures and to death , which was done accordingly . But heauen protected the lawfull , to be an instrument for the Vsurpers confusion . Obscurely liude this wronged Prince , the changing of him being made priuate to none but his owne mother ( Sister as is said before to Boris ) who is now liuing , and to Bodan Belskey : but vpon what wheele his various fortunes haue bin turned , ( which of necessitye must needs be strange ) came not within the rech of our knowledge being there . Onely thus much was receiued as currant , that the king of Poland sent word to the Vsurper , that such a Prince of Rushia was abiding in his court , describing him by name and other perticular notes to be sonne to their olde Emperour : vppon receipte of which Newes ( which went but coldly to the heart of Borris ) an Ambassadour was presently dispatcht into Poland , one that had been Godfather vnto Demetre , because he should bring certaine knowledge of the truth : whoe at his comming was presented with a Counterfait ( Princely attyred ) but afterward with true Demetrius , whom ( by the ayde of the Polack ) the Rushians within short time after receiued for their Emperour , and now raigneth ouer them . FINJS . Errors escaped in the Printing , thus to be corrected . IN the first page , for Chain Concatenation , read chain and Concatenation : for Neves , read Nerues : for allude read Allurde : for squred , read Squared . In the eight page , for Dronia , read Dwyna . In the xv . page , for Coli●gro , read Colmagro . In the 31. page : for Meands , read Meades , and so in any other place where that word is found . In the 56. p. for Comp. house , read companies house . In the 66. p. read Boycrins . In the 67. pag. read Knees Pheodor , and Knees , &c. Reader , thou shalt vnderstand that the Godonoues is the name of the Royall family . A Prestave is a chiefe Officer about the Emperour , whoe hath continuall accesse , and doth command prouision and lodging for any Ambassador , &c. A Verst , signifies a Myle . A Derevena , is a little village . These wordes because thou mayst doubt of them , I thought good to explaine . 
A68979	----	Newes of the present miseries of Rushia occasioned by the late warre in that countrey. Commenced betweene Sigimond now King of Poland. Charles late King of Swethland. Demetrius, the last of the name, Emperour of Rushia. Together with the memorable occurrences of our owne nationall forces, English, and Scottes, vnder the pay of the now King of Swethland. Brereton, Henry. 1614 Approx. 124 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 31 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2008-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A68979 STC 3609 ESTC S114176 99849404 99849404 14548 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. A68979) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 14548) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1266:07, 1494:06) Newes of the present miseries of Rushia occasioned by the late warre in that countrey. Commenced betweene Sigimond now King of Poland. Charles late King of Swethland. Demetrius, the last of the name, Emperour of Rushia. Together with the memorable occurrences of our owne nationall forces, English, and Scottes, vnder the pay of the now King of Swethland. Brereton, Henry. [4], 56 p. Printed [by N. Okes] for Iohn Bache, and are to be sold at his shop on the backe-side of the Royall Exchange, London : 1614. Dedication signed: Henry Brereton. Printer's name from STC. Running title reads: The miseries of Rushia. Formerly also STC 21462. 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Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Soviet Union -- History -- Epoch of confusion, 1605-1613 -- Early works to 1800. 2006-05 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2006-06 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-05 Ali Jakobson Sampled and proofread 2007-05 Ali Jakobson Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion NEWES OF the present Miseries of Rushia : Occasioned By the late Warre in that Countrey . Commenced Betweene Sigismond now King of Poland . Charles late King of Swethland . Demetrius , the last of that Name , Emperour of Rushia . Together with the Memorable occurrences of our owne Nationall Forces , English , and Scottes , vnder the Pay of the now King of Swethland . LONDON Printed for Iohn Bache , and are to be sold at his shop on the backe-side of the Royall Exchange . 1614. TO THE RIGHT Honorable sir Robert Carre , Knight , Viscont Rochester , Earle of Somerset , Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter , and one of his Maiesties most honorable priuy Counsell . IF in the great affairs of the kingdome , wherein ( vnder our excellent Head ) your Lordship is worthily employed as a principall member , there be any leasure left from the businesse of your high place , It may then please your Lordship to cast a fauourable aspect vpon the humble Labours of such whom Fortune , and their meane deseruings keepes vnder in the obscure ranke of Pouerty . Amongst whom , I haue presumed to write this little Booke , as a Discoursiue Treatise vpon the Miseries of Russia , occasioned by the late forreine and intestine warre in that Country , which I haue aduentured to present vnto your Honours view ( if a pretious eie may looke vpon a woorthlesse obiect ) and it is not the meanest vertue , to respect the poorest fortune : for take away goodnesse from great men : to whom shall the poore flee for refuge ? I haue therefore made bolde to shrowd it vnder the Patronage of your Honour , which I wish may still transcend , vntill with your high woorth it hold correspondencie . And that those holy Nuptiallbands , whereby you are now honourably lincked into the Noble House of Norfolke , euen by the Soueraigne appointment of the most high God , beyond the subordinate power of Destiny , may till death proue indissoluble , more hard to be vntwined , then that Gordious knotte , wherein lay infoulded the fate of Asia , That you may liue long most happy , as you are now most worthy , both in your high Stile , State , Place , Fortune , and a Kings fauour . Your Honors in all humble duty , HENRY BRERETON . The Warre and Miseries of Rushia . CHAP. 1. Demetrius the last of that name , after the death of his father Basilius , succeeds him in the Empire , he distrusteth his owne people , and many of his Nobility , and striues to strengthen his estate by mariage with a yong Lady neere in bloud to Sigismond king of Poland . OF all the accidents that I haue read or heard of in the oppression of any State or Kingnome whatsoeuer , either for the present or precedent ages , there hath none in my opinion béene found so sudden , strange and variable , with occurrants so doubtfull , and euents so fatall , both to Prince and People , to the inuader and the inuaded , with such deuastation of Country , depopulation of Townes , combustion of Cities , such deflowrings , rauishemnts , murthers , and horrible treasons , fire , sword , and famine , the tragicke executioners of these miseries , plots and stratagems deuised in hell by diuels , and acted by men on earth : as hath happened of late yéeres , and is not yet concluded betwéene Sigismond nowe King of Poland , Charles King of Swethland , and Demetrius the last of that name , called the great Duke of Muscouia , or Emperour of Russia . And this vnhappie countrey , which before flourished in great wealth , state , pleasure and peaceable commerce with strangers , no warre at hand , nor none towards , but such as no man looked for , was on the sudden , before a mans mind could thinke in such a case of a kingdomes alteration , made the woefull Sceane and publicke stage whereon so many bloudy parts haue bene acted on all hands , as haue brought wretchednesse to the people liuing , and prepared misery for the child vnborne : which warre well considered . God neuer gaue vnto the world a more memorable example , either in what vnsurety stands the state of any Kingdome or Nation that is not propt and supported by the high hand of Heauen , or what miseries and calamities succéed in the progresse of such bloudy and dangerous intendments , to a people so secure . And finally , what end followes such treasonable and despiteous crueltie , as the lamentable sequell of this history shall declare . You shall therefore vnderstand that Demetrius , the last of that name , Emperour of Rushia , after the death of his father Basilius , called for his stearne and austere gouernement , as well by strangers , as his owne naturall subiects , the great Tyrant of Rushia succéeded him , both in the Empire and hatred of his subiects : For notwithstanding that Demetrius was a most excellent Prince , framd euen in the prodigality of Nature , endued with many commendable parts , and hereyicke vertues , in the flower of all his youth and beauty , which commonly the people do much estéeme full of rich hope and expectation . Yet such was the hatred they bare vnto his father , that not dying with his death , it liued still in his issue , and proued in short time the confusion of this Prince , who ( setting aside his haughty disposition ) which séemed to be inherent in him by Nature , he was otherwise a most absolute Prince , noble in mind , and of a kingly presence . He hauing thus by his fathers death obtained , but not established himselfe in the Empire , deuised the best meanes he could for the assurance of his estate , which by reason of his subiects minds ( being Alians to him ) and many also of the Nobility ( which for his fathers sake also bare him no affection ) stood very fickle : Amongst which , there was at that time one Kneseuansusce a noble man , and of great power , that in the Raigne of the great Tyrant , being great Maister of the Horse , did also at this time beare many great Offices in the Empire , which the present King Demetrius , more for feare then loue , suffered him to enioy . And that state in a Prince must néedes bee vnassured , where the subiects power shall bréed the Princes feare . This Vansusce in the former Emperours raigne , did flily by his bounty and popularity wind himselfe into the loue and opinion of the people : and because that some fewe turbulent broyles and dangerous innouasions were by his power and policy pacified , he was held in great estimation of the Prince , and great veneration of the Nobility , among which neuerthelesse there were some that looking vppon his state , with an enuious eye , did also with considerate eyes looke into his actions , that springing from ambition more then from countries care or honorable ends , they found his greatnesse to be dangerous , and those acts which caried the name and colour of the Emperours good , serued vnder hand to make way for his ambition , as hauing only a reference to himselfe and his owne designes , which Demetrius well perceiuing , did neuerthelesse dissemble , and coulourably made him faire countenance , as loth ( in this gréene world ) to stirre the fire that lay hid in this embers . This Vansusce was very noble in bloud , deriued from a long continued auncestry , honored in many ages with many alliances of the Empire , alwayes held in great loue and estimation of the people , he was in his owne person of a Princely presence , full of affability & Court complement : yet neuerthelesse ambitions , cruell , a great dissembler , not letting to kisse whom he meant to kill , sparing no mans death , whose life withstood his purpose . He was heard once say to a secret friend of his , that that man was to be held vnworthy the stocke of all Noblenesse , that yéelded his honour to vassalage , whose fortunes might attaine to Soueraignty , whereby discouering his owne affections , he made himselfe transparant , thinking that if his words were brought in question , his power was able to defend them . This Vansusces greatnesse gane principall matter for the Emperours distrust , knowing well that his ambition once ioyned with the peoples hate against him , whose natures are euer wout to follow Nobility , there might be raised a dangerous faction : for the preuention or méeting whereof , his friends councelled him to strengthen his vnassured estate , by mariage in the alliance of some forreine Prince : for the furtherance whereof , there was a young Lady at that time of Princely birth and admirable beauty , as yet vncontracted in the Court of Poland . Thither with great preparations were Embassadors with great expedition sent , the principall of whom was a young Nobleman , and kinsman to the Empereur , called Tragus , that bare chiefe place and honor , who being honorably entertained in Poland , found their dissignes happely succéede to their desires : for in short time this young Lady was withall solemnity affianced to this yong Prince , a great ioynture granted , a rich dowry constituted , and the Embassadour richly rewarded , withall spéed richly returned into Rushia . The Emperour embraceth the newes , and his kinsman for them kisseth the Ladies picture , confirmes the Articles , exhausteth his treasure , holds himselfe poore in the riches of his hope , makes great preparations for his iourney into Poland , still languishing in his desire to sée the substance of that beauty , whose shaddowe onely had so incenced his fancy , that that séemed to be true in him which was written by Plutarch , vpon the languishments of Marcus Anthonius , to Cleopatra Quéene of Egypt , that the soule of a Louer liues not in his owne , but in anothers bodie . CHAP. 2. The Emperour Demetrius descends in person into Poland , with an honorable traine , and is there with all solemnity espoused to the Polish Princesse , returneth into Rushia , bringing with him sixe thousand Poles for his guard . ALL things being in sumptuous manner prepared , the Emperour Demetrius setteth forward towards Poland , committing the gouernment of his Empire in his absence to certaine of his Noblemen , whom he especially trusted , constituting his Kinsman Tragus for his Vicegerent . The people stocke from all parts to sée him , but neither with outward acclamations , nor inward desires of ioy , which neuerthelesse he little respected , supposing that this new alliance with Poland had so strengthned his estate , as he should not need to feare any intestine innouasion , and from forreine inuasions he was secured : howbeit there were some that iudging of future centingents by the present times condition , foresaw that ▪ this mariage and disposings of it , might hereafter proue his confusion , as indeed it did : Howbeit we will not now mingle his present pleasures with vnseasonable feares of future troubles , but bring him in all honorable and delightfull manner out of his owne territories into the Kingdome of Poland , where in all places he found his entertainment to answer his estate , and to excéed his expectation . After many honorable stayes and méetings , with many Princes and Nobles of Poland , he came at last to Court , the King lying then at Craccow , the chiefe City in Craconia , and the principall Seate of the Kingdome , here he found all the honors that his heart could desire , and sawe the rarest beauties that his eyes could behold : but that which most pleased him , was the sight of her , whose beauty at first sight did so rauish him with astonishment , that his eyes and other parts with outward complements , were driuen to executs his tongues office , in discouering his inward thoughts : for he wanted words to expresse his Ioye . Here feasting the time , and his owne desires with banquets , imbracements , dances , and other amorous delights , at last , the long wisht for day appeared , wherein the solemnity and authority of the Church , should consumate their hopefull longings with those happy imbrasings , and that true touch of ioy that languishing Louers féele in the heigth of pleasure , which then is at the full , when with simpathy of affection that swéete is mutually tasted betwéene them with reciprocall desire , as it was betwixt these two Louers , in whom no compulsary consent did enforce mariage : neither was there any incompacible bloud betwéene them to ouer-sway or dull affection : for they were both of equall yéeres , and both of them the most perfect and absolute frames of nature , that liued at that time in that part of the world . But at last , all things being finished with the time for this Princely mariage , they begin to prepare for their departure , a new desire therein stirring them both , him to reuiew his natiue Kingdome , and her to behold that land whereof she was now stiled Empresse . The King and Quéene of Poland , a great part of the Nobility , and the richest beauties of the Court accompany them to the Frontiers of Rushia , the high-wayes , townes and villages being strewed with flowers , and swéet smelling herbes , as if the ground had seemed too base to carry these Princely personages , the people flocking from all parts to sée the blazing Comets of these two kingdomes , whose beauties attracted all mens eyes with wonder to behold them . At last , the day of parting came , wherein these two yong Louers hauing taken their leaues , with seuerall tokens of ioy and sorrow , held on their way by their appointed Iournals , first to Smalensco , the chiefe City in the Dukedome of Seueare , where the Emperours Kinsman Tragus in honorable manner met them , here staying awhile to rest and solace themselues , within few dayes they departed , holding on their conrse , from thence to the great City of Mosco , where by the directions of the Prince Tragus they were with all State and Magnificence entertained . Here they liued a while in all delights and pleasure . Who would haue thought that this Sunne thus shining but in his morning beauty , could so suddenly haue found an Eclipse in this Horizon , euen in the high-way of his ascending glory . But O the incertainty of terrene pleasures , this light that brought so great a luster to so great a Nation , was by the same people , whom it beheld with so faire an aspect , suddenly extinct by the malignancie of Fate and opposite Enuy , as you shall further heare . The Emperour Demetrius brought with him out of Poland six thousand Souldiers well appointed , to whom he gaue the guard of his person , distrusting the ūdelity of his owne subiects , which the rather did incense the Muscouite against him , and in short time proued the cause of his vtter ouerthrowe . CHAP. 3. The Emperours guard of Poles abuse his fauour , committing many outrages in the Citty , and in short time fall into great hatred with the Muscouite , Kneseuansusce Iaying hold of this occasion , ioynes with the Muscouite , and growes discontent . NOw while the Emperour with his Lady delighted in nothing but what might please his fancy , spending whole dayes and nights in Banqueting and Reuels , thinking all safe and secure , the Poles being a people proud in their owne nature , and that pride nowe doubled in them by the Princes fauour , commit without controlement many outrages in the Mosco , and other places adioyning , so that by degrées ( in short time they came to be extreamely hated of the Muscouite , which Vansusce perceiuing would oftentimes complaine so farre as he durst to diuerse of his friends the Muscouites , both of the Indulgence of the Prince , and insolency both of the Pole , alleaging probability of a Tyranny in the sonne , more vnsufferable then that of his fathers . Who foresées not saith Vansusce , that perceiues any thing , how this new Alliance with Poland is like to proue fatall to Rushia , who sées not that these rude beginnings , are certaine signes foregoing much greater mischiefes , if they be not in time preuented , we are scarse now secured of our wiues , children and goods , but that many times they passe the hazard of their barbarous cruelty , if six thousand Poles kéepes vs thus in awe , committing such outrages ( whereof there are daily complaints ) without controulement , what will their greater numbers doe , whereof there is a continuall expectance : the Prince sleepes and dallies in the delights of his new loue forgetting his old friends , his owne people are disestéemed , the Pole hath all estimation , no Rushian sues at Court but ( if he will thriue ) must haue a Pole to his Aduoacte , nothing that is by the Pole begged , but is by the Prince granted , without respect of common profit , the principall Offices begin already to be transposed both in Court and Citty , what shall we looke for but a declination still from bad to worse vntill we haue lost all , and the Pole hath got all . These words together with their outrages had so incensed the Muscouite that there wanted but occasion to raise an innouation which vnluckely was soone after proffered , for a Polish Gentleman casting by chance his eye vpon a Marchants daughter of Mosco , a virgine of excellent bewty , was so infangled in her loue , that hauing tried all waies for the obtayning his desire by intreaties , and gifts , and finding stil his suite to returne in vaine , was neuerthelesse so ardent in his outragious lust , that hauing trayned her by deuise into a place of conueniency , where in the pursuite of his desire all faire waies being denied him , he in a most barbarouse manner rauisht her . This deflowred damsell with great sorrow and heauinesse complained to her frinds of this vile abuse . When the causes of our griefes excéede all bounds , it workes in our minds diuersity of effectes , not immoderatly those that follow our ordinary afflictions , or the customary crosses of fortune , which draw our sighes , teares , and other common tokens of calamity ; but in the excesse of grief when the obiect there of presents a veiw beyond al patience or sufferance , it so distracts the minde and astonisheth the senses that reason giuing way to sorrow we fall into a boundlesse Ocean of the extreamest passtons , such was the inuolued heart with griefe in that spectacle of all misery Hecuba Quéene of Troy , who seeing herselfe betraid 〈◊〉 set on fire , her Lord Priame flaine , her children murdered , and that flowre of al beauty Polixena ( in the loue of whom that mirror of all knighted Achilles fight ) slaine in her owne armes , by vnrelenting Pirrhus , in the view of these miserable obiects she was so far from finding ease in the vtterance ofsorrow , that shée lost herselfe in the Maze and Labrinth of madnesse , the like was that of Niobe vpon the slaughter of her seuen sonnes by the Goddesse Latona , who in the fight thereof was so astonished with sorrow , that the Poet fained her turned into a stone , not much vnlike was the state of the friends of this deflowred damsell , who hauing séene their daughters teares , and knowen the cause of hir grieuance fell presently from the passion of sorrow to the passion of rage , and in a furious manner with resolued purposes but vnguided steps ran to Court , complaines of this abuse with frantike and vnséemly gesture , set forth the guilt of this abhominable fact in the presence of the Emperour , and after a violent manner , rather commanding then crauing iustice , what haue we committed ( saith the father to this wronged damsell ) that we your natural people hauing béene so long brought vp vnder your Lawes , Religion , and Gouernment , should be so farre distrusted of our loyalties , and so much distasted in our affections that you should repose your selfe in a strange guard , and expose vs to their cruelty . what outrages haue they committed since the comming of your Quéene into Mosco , sparing neither age , sex , nor quality , how many complaints haue béene made of their abuses , but no redresse ; and I the sad father to this deflowred virgin perceiue by your lookes that I speake in vaine , the way to oppression is plaine and open , the path to Iustice is vntrodden , the King is a stranger to his subiects and a King to strangers , the Muscouite held himselfe wretched vnder the gouernment of your father , but wee much more vnder your tyrannie , these last words did so incense the Prince , that with his foote he spurned the father of this damsell from him , and being by rage wholy transported from reason without any respect , either to the complainants cause , or the Muscouites discontent , committed him as a mutiner together with his wife and this wronged damsell to prison , who causing them there to be laden with Irons , did there by so ouerlade himselfe with the hatred of his people , that in short time it proued a burden too heauy for him to beare , ouer-pressing him so much that it depriued him of his Empire , & in the end of his life , as the sequell shall declare . CHAP. IIII. Vansusce with the aide of the Muscouite rebels , surpriseth the great Castle or Pallace of Mosco , kils all the Poles in one night , in this garboile the Emperour is bruted to be slaine , but with the aid of a trusty seruant escapes secretly with his 〈◊〉 disguised . THe newes being spread abroad the great Citty , of the vsage of his Marchant , his wrongs and vniust imprisonment , together with his wife and daughter , the Muscouite in more open manner bewray their discontents on to another , and all against the Pole , so farre forth that they begin to mutiny , flocking togther in great Companies with mindes of resolution to reuenge themselues for the wrongs receiued , which the Pole vnderstanding , kéepe within the great Pallace , not daring to stirre abrdad : The Prince looking ( but too late ) into the danger , imploie certaine Noble men of his Court , such whom he knew to be gracious with the people for the quieting of these tumults , by whose care and industry in short time they séemed to be pacified , not appeased , the Marchant , his wife , and daughter deliuered , not contented , a punishment vpon the offender imposed , not executed , a satisfaction promised , not performed , so that this fire was for a time smothered , not extinguished , which shortly after brake forth in such biolent manner , that the flame thereof had well néere consumed the whole Empire . The Prince being much perplexed in minde with these garboiles and continuall dangers of innouation , demands councel of his friends what were best to doe , rather for preuention of mischiefe then pacification of the people , the best counsell was giuen to appease ; to apply himselfe to a gentle and debonaire behauiour towards his subiects , that obedience was better from loue then feare , to send backe the Pole , into his Country , to betake the gard of his person to his owne people and to apply his gouernment to the nature of the Muscouite . But the worst , is followed which is to fore-stall to make his Guard stronger with the aide of the Poles to fortifie his Pallace and other places of command in the Mosco , to rule by force not loue , and vtterly to disgrace and distrust the Muscouite , to this end , and for these purposes were there messengers secretly sent into Poland for ten thousand souldiers more to be entertained vnder his pay for the saueguard of his person . When distrust once growes in a Princes minde and hatred once setled in the subiects hearts , they are hardly remoued , as was well found in this Prince and people , howbeit if at that time he had followed the best counsell to haue cassiered the Pole and entertayned the Muscouite for his Guard , vndoubtedly hée might long haue rained a happy Prince ouer a happy people , and preuented infinite mischiefes that followed euen to y e vtter destruction of himselfe and great desolation in the Empire : And thus in the beginning ends the last act of his comike Sceane , and now begins the first act of his tragedy , and as the first was short and full of pleasure so this last was long and more full of misery , for his old aduersary Kneseunnsusce vnderstanding of the close dispatch of the Emperours messengers into Poland for this new supply foreséeing that the Prince would then be to strong for him , except hee should openly raise his powers , and so put it to the hazard of a battell , the end whereof he wist was doubtfull , as well for the number of the Poles that were knowen to be much better souldiers then the Muscouite , as also for some few Noble men in Court both of land and power , whom he knew were fast vnto the Prince , and might soone raise there forces : held it his best for the pursuing of his dessignes to take the aduantage of y e occasion present , & by a sudden surprise with the helpe of his friendes to make a new slaughter in the Pallace and places adioyning not only of the Poles but also of the Prince himselfe his chiefe friendes and followers . To this end and bloudy purpose he sendeth secretly to his friends & such as he specially trusted in the Citty to be in a readinesse armed at an houre appointed , and as the Poet saith , Tenebris audacia crescit : the night was held fittest for this déed of darknesse , & the Pallace it self was made y e publike Theatre whereon was acted this horrible massacre , the night being come they flocke on all sides to the house of Vansusce , all waies being fore-laide to preuent intelligence of this bloudy proiect , his friends and followers being thus assembled together to y e number of ten , or twelue thousand , all armed for the purpose : Vansusce prepares for this bloudy assault , telling them with words of much incouragement that now y e long lookt for time was come , that should make the Muscouite famous to all posterity in the deliuery of themselues from the cruell tyrany of the Poles , the experiment of whose proud natures and bloudy dispositions they were to wel acquainted with in their owne particulars , and that now the houre was come , wherein they might reuenge at full the vilde abuses and intollerable wrongs of this vnsufferable stranger , and frée the Citty and the land of so dangerous a Viper , these words of Vansusce , together with y e credit and opinion that was held of him that spake them , did so stirre vp the spirit of the Muscouite to the enterprise of this attempt , that most of them with an uniuersall consent of reuenge , the rest carried with hate and desire of spoile ran in disordered troupes from the house of Vansusce to the Pallace of the Emperour which was two miles a sunder , now was there one Glasco a Secretary , and in speciall trust with y e Emperor , howbeit a most vile traitor , for being priuy to all Vansusces proiects he was y e only meanes for their entry into the Palace , this Glasco shall carry the stampe of infamy , and for euer leaue it to his name and memory , who had he béene faithfull to his Lord and Master might haue discouered this horrible treason , preuented the infinite mischiefes that followed , preserued the life of his Prince , and purchast to himselfe immortal glory . The entry was made with little resistance into the base Courts , where hauing once set foot , they cry out , liberty , liberty , liberty ; kill , kill , kill ; the Poles some naked , some weakly armed , according to the shortnesse of the time , passe with smal defence the cruelty of the enemies swords , & it fel out as Vansusce had expected , for others that knew not the matter hearing the Larum-bell rung in the Pallace , came from all parts , and vnderstanding that Vansusce was there in person , without inquiring further fell presently to execution , killing all they found , as well Muscouite as Pole , that bare office in the Court ; now was there nothing heard in the Pallace but a horrible and confused noise of armour , Horses , and harqubuses ; a pittifull crie of all sorts of people , of all ages and conditions going vnto death , and the pitilesse shoutes of murtherers , the Pallace died ouer with bloud , to the which ( though hauing made choice of darknes ) they neuerthelesse set fire to giue them light for the execution of this massacre , two houres murder and rapine make this one night famous in the infamy of the executioners , to whom also afterwards it proued so fatall , as all of them were enforced to confesse that mans bloud split violently , when as the manner therof , cannot lawfully challenge , the quallification of iustice is odious in his sight ; who hauing created man according to his owne image , sels his bloud déerly to the authors of such effusion , neuerthelesse this was but the exordium , or entrance , or first , or least part of this Tragicke Sceane , for when their way was made into theinward Courts by fire and sword , they spared none of any degrée or calling , euery obiect they saw in the Court was a subiect to their fury . The Emperour and his Lady being in the heart of the Pallace imbracing one another , in great dolour and heauinesse determine yet nobly to die together , whilest a trusty seruant of the Emperors found away and meanes for their escape , the Prince in the habit of a slaue , the Lady in mans apparrel , thus in great sorrow and feare these two younge louers in this disguise tooke hand in hand , and with their faithfull guide by his direction past through by-waies out of the Pallace , then burning about their eares : he deserueing for his care and duty to his Prince , no lesse fame and memory then that patterne of all piety , Aeneas did carrying vpon his shoulders his old father , Anchises , euen through the flames of Troy. CHAP. V. Demetrius with his Empresse flies to the Dukedome of Collooge , and findes entertainment , Vansusce bruits him dead , and causeth one like him to be carried thorow the Citty murdered , the Muscouite beleeues it . THus these two yoong Princes sprung from the lines of Kings , in the chiefe pride of their flowring youth , and beauty , in the height of all their state and dignity , in the middest of al their pleasures and delights , from the happy society of their friendes and great Allies , are now by the vilde treachery of Vansusce , their sworne subiect , and forsworne vassaile , brought from their Imperiall greatnesse to so wretched and miserable a state , as not the meanest in the Empire would now willingly change fortunes and conditions with them . But to returne to their tragicke story : They hauing by the aide of their trusty guid past the feares and dangers of the Pallace , tooke the Riuer of Volga , in a little boate , the Prince himselfe helping his trusty seruant to row downe the streame , O what a piteous sight it was to behold a Prince that but the day before held a Septer of so rich royall and spacious a kingdome serued in all state and maiesty , attended on with Nobles , and infinite numbers of men , to be now tugging at a simple Oare , and labouring for his life to preserue her , whom aboue his life , and all the world hée preferred , and of all that he inioyed but thrée houres before , to haue only this remnant left that he might call his owne , his desolate Quéene , his faithfull seruant , and two silly Oares , and a little Boate. But holding on our course , we must publish to the world those dolorous occurrents , and heauy calamities that followed , to fill vp this sad Sceane of sorrow with matter more tragicall then that of Seneca , in the wretchednesse of Locasta , or that of Homer in the miseries of Hecuba : thus this poore rich remaine of Rushia , these two pretious iewels pluckt rudly from their golden frame , these two great personages , in this little Boate , easing themselues in this heauy burden of care by the naturall participation of sorrow , and comforting themselues in the sight each of other , hold on their course towards the Dukedome of Colloga , some fourescore verse , as the Rushe cals it , from the great Citty of Mosco , which is about thréescore miles English , a place for the naturall scituation so defensible , by reason of Riuers , Rockes , and Castles , that with an Army it is well neare vnaccessible , Demettius hauing héere safely set his foote , the whole Dukedome did generally entertaine him , some also of the Nobility , and many of his old seeuants that had past the dangers of the Pallace , and the tiranny of Vansusce fled vnto him , in whose sight hée comforted himselfe with this , that he was not vtterly forsaken , thanking almighty God vpon his knées , that his state thorough this treason was not reduced to so low an ebbe but that hée might yet liue , to out liue this misery , and sith hée was in this short time raised from the attendance of one seruant and a little Boate , to the possession of many seruants and a whole Dukedome , he might also afterward , by the reuolution of time , and fortune , recouer and repossesse his whole Empire , checking his present feares with the hope of future contingents , striuing thus to make a body of a limbe , and to beguile the actuall condition of his fortunes with imaginary conceits of better : But we will now leaue this crosse starre Prince in the sorry comfort of his wan hopes , building new Castles in the aire , while his fatall enemy Vansusce possesseth his old Castles in the Empire , and letting him rest a while after the vnrest of that dismall night , we will now returne where we left Vansusce burning , or spoyling that great Castle and Palace of Mosco , the royall Seate of many Emperours in many precedent ages , which had bene a building many yeares , and was thus miserably in one night destroyed , or so much defaced , that to this day it is not re-edin̄ed : now must we bring vpon the stage Vsurpation attainders , forfeitures and confiscation of Lands and Goods , plots , and stratagems to supplant , polices , and deuices to establish a Crowne vniustly gotten , vpon an Vsurpers head , that is neuer at rest , or seldome sléepes in quiet . Vansusce notwithstanding that euery thing succéeded according to his desire : but that which was the maine of his proiect , the flaughter of the Prince Demetrius , whose escape none but his trusty friends knew of , procéeds in his purposes to make himselfe Emperour , albeit he knew that he had no title thereunto , nor colour like to any . The mind of man is infinite in opinion and wéening , which being once set vpon ambition , nothing can stay or limit her aduentures , as appeared in Vansusce , in whose way lay two great stumbling blockes , the first was the escape of the Prince , the other was the life and greatnesse of his Kinsman Tragus , who was also great in the peoples opinion him must Vansusce néedes remoue , or he finds a greater enemy exposd then Demetrius that was expeld , this must be done secretly , and vpon the sudden , and there was no time slackt , for thrée howers before the appearing of the day that followed this fatall night , a brother of Vansusces , whose name was also Demetrius , was sent to surprise him with fiue hundred horse , he lying then at a house of pleasure in the country , some fiftéene miles from the City , and to bring him prisoner to the Mosco , where by forme of tryall he was to passe such censure as was preiudicated for him , in those false crimes and imputations already set downe to be suggested and inforced against him : for he durst not by reason of the peoples fauour procéed against his life , but by processe of Law , and because he knew also that it would be a hard matter to surprise him in his house , he causeth a letter of Credence to be counterfeit in the Emperours name , the tenor whereof was onely this , That there was some matter of import that craued his present aide at Court , and that he should set all other businesse aside , and make what spéed he could thither , the trust of this letter was committed to that vilde traytor Glasco , as being found the fittest for this negotiation : howbeit there will come a time wherein he that is now an Agent , shall proue also a Patient in this bloudy tragedie , when that treasonable bloud that now floweth in his veines , shall be let out euen by the hand of him whom he now obeyes , but we will leaue him now , and Vansusces brother Demetrius , to their poasting iourney , and returne to the Castle at Mosco , where Vansusce hauing beheld many dead Carkases , found one that in yeares , fauour , and other lineaments of his body , was very like the Emperor , Vansusce layes hold vpon this occasion , and hauing princely apparrelled this dead counterfeit , caused it to be publisht , that the Emperour Demetrius was slaine : for manifestation where , he causeth this counterfeit to be laid vpon a Béere ; and with great State to be caried bare-faced thorow the great Citty , to their State-house , or common hall , he accompanying the body in person , the people flocking from all parts to sée him , beléeuing stedfastly that it was he , but no man bestowing a sigh or funerall teare vpon him , such is the nature of the vulgar . CHAP. 6. The counterfet body is buried for the Emperor Demetrius , with the state and solemnity of a Prince , Tragus is suddenly surprised and brought prisoner to the Mosco . VAnsusce being come into the publike Hall , coulorably attired in blacke , being in himselfe of a Princely personage and presence , maiestically ascended vp into a high Throne that was suddenly erected for him , the supposed body of the Prince being laied before the people , where after silence proclaimed , he spake after this maner vnto them , with a sad setled countenance and an audible voice . I cannot tell with what passions or affections of griefe and sorrow , my deare Country-men , this dead Prince whom we lately called our soueraigne Lord and Emperour , lies buried in your hearts , but vnto me it is the saddest sight , and the most wofull obiect that euer my vnhahpy eyes beheld , of whose bloud , as the immortall God can witnesse of my cléere heart and innosence , so I protest by the maiesty of him before whom I stand , that with your allowance and consent , I would punish with torture , to all example , this worse then Parricide , were it in the person of mine owne brother , though done in ignorance , as in such vnhappy garboiles many such chances happen : If probable witnesse could be produced against him , for it is not fit the earth should beare the murderer of his Prince , but because that matters vncertaine cannot be certainly disposed , we must leaue him to his iudgement that knowes as well the intensions as actions of man , it onely resteth that we performe our last duties to the dead , his funerall Rites and Obsequies , which I desire may be with all solemnity accomplished , in whose sudden and vntimely death , because we haue lost a hope of a continued line for succession in the Empire , and that by the flaughter of the Poles we haue drawn a great and dangerous enemy , it behooues you to make choise of such a one to gouerne , whose wisdome and valour may be able to maintaine the State and Maiesty of the Empire , and also méete with those opposite occurrents that doth maligne it , but first of all , and chiefest of all , it behooues you to cut of all occasions of ciuill and intestine war , for preuention whereof we haue this morning sent for the Princes kinsman Tragus , as well to answer to such supputations of crime as shall be obiected against him , as also in this dangerous time to be disposed of by your wisdomes , nought else at this time our dolorous tongue can discourse of but the Princes funerals , which we wil hasten to solemnise : and with that word he wipt his eyes , the people were so farre from any tokens of sorrow , that they fell presently to acclamations of ioy , clapping their hands and throwing vp their hats , crying Vansusce , Vansusce , God saue Vansusce . It is a thing worth the obseruation to note and marke what diuersity of shapes hypocrisie puts on , Haec simulata sanctitas haec dissimulata iniquitas , how many miles distant are the words and thoughts of a dissembler , how many vnknowne Regions betwixt his tongue and heart , but admit they lie close for a while they will be discouered when his iustice shall be turned outward , and though his treasons haue for a time vndeserued and vnsuspected passage , as carring an outward glosse faire and remarkable , yet the day will come when hée shall render an account of his vniust Stewardship , and surrender vp and restore backe all those false titles and honours which murder , periury , and horrible treason helpes him to put on , when by being truly pulled downe from the height of his false greatnesse he shall be aduanced as a marke of terrour to all traitours and treasons , in the meane time , and at all times his name and memory shall be held odious and infamous to God and all good men , to whom humane society and vertue is had in veneration . Not long after the liuing Princes obsequies were with all state and honour solemnized in the person of another , who though he were of base birth , and obscure parentage , and perhaps did neuer any act memorable in his life , was neuerthelesse in his death honoured with a Princes funerall , and buried in a Sepulchre of Emperours . But we must now returne where we left with Vansusces brother , Demetrius and the traitonr Glasco , who many daies before this counterfet obsequies had betraied and surprised the young Prince Trahus , which in this manner was effected : early in the morning a little before the breaking of the day , they came within sight of the Castle , where hauing found within a mile thereof a fit place by reason of certaine copses of wood , and other shrubbish , to plant an Ambuscado , Demetrius tooke the aduantage thereof , lying there close with his men to intrap the Prince vpon the way whilest this Achitophel , this Iudas , that had before betraied his Lord , in a most abhominable manner goes now also to betray his kisman , to whom before hée had béene much obliged , but no benefite receiued , or pleasure done can stay a treacherous heart bent to mischiefe , for that it is altogether transferred vnto the end it aimes at , and neither respects the way it takes , nor the course it holds , though neuer so foule or indirect , he comes like slie Vlisses , that stole Paladium out of Troy , with a faire face , but a foule minde , a smooth countenance , but a rotten heart ; knockes at the Castle gate , and is let in , he vnderstands that the Prince is a sléepe , who God knowes little drempt of the fatall night his kinsman the Emperour endured , nor of this vnhappy day wherein hée himselfe is to be betraied . Now because that Glasco had told the seruants of the house that his busines was of suah import , that he had itin charge giuen not to forbeare his rest , they waked the Prince before his houre , who vnderstanding of Glascoes comming was very glad , and sent for him into his bed-chamber , so cléere and true a minde hath innocence vpon the Anuile when treason and mischiefe is in the Forge . But this vilde traitour Glasco being entered the Chamber , he in very humble maner salutes the Prince , and deliuers many suggested complements , together with these counterfeit letters from the Emperour , the Prince with a chéerefull and vnsuspected countenance , giues him his hand , bids him welcome , demands of the Prince his health , and the newes at Court , all is deliuered in faire manner and coloured ouer with dissembled words , the Prince beléeues all , and distrusteth nothing , receiues and reads the letter without suspition , making himselfe ready for his iourny to Mosco : Thus whilest the tongue and the heart of truth are in one line paralel , the heart and tongue of treason are as farre sundered as the Poales ; such distance there is from their artike words to the antartike purposes : the Prince is soone ready , kisseth his faire Lady , making more hast then good spéed to goe on with this traitour to the Mosco ; from whence he is neuer to returne , nor euer to behold his wife againe ; shée wéepes at parting , as bedewing his hidden fate with her open teares , whether of present loue , or fore signifying sorrow , they mount on horse-backe , and with halfe a doozin of the Princes followers they post towards the Mosco , till they came within the compasse of the Ambuscado , that all this while laie as still as midnight , the larum being giuen on the sudden , they surprise him and detaine him prisoner , there could be no resistacne , the Prince seeing himselfe thus vildly betraied , and by him also whom he especially trusted , bouldly desired to know the cause , and whether it was the Emperours pleasure that he should be thus held in captiuity , they answered him churlishly , that he should know the rest at his comming to Mosco , and when he began in goodly tearmes , as he was an excellent wel spoken man , to bewray his innocense , they staied not the end of his speech , but rudely put him forward , at which the Prince sighed , but it booted not : All this was done within view of the Princes house , and in the Ladies sight : Now iudge all you houourable dames , that loue your Lords and husbands with intire affections , with what heart the sad eyes of this desolate Lady could behould this miserable obiect , to sée her husband thus betraied within her view ; such was the sorrow of that euer memorable Roman Lady Cornelia , wife to Pompey the great , when from a farre off shée saw her Lord and husband in a little Boate betrayed and slaine , by the treacherous Councellers and bloudy ministers of that periured Prince Ptolomie King of Aegypt , when after his ouerthrow in Thessalie hée put himselfe vpon his protection . And this poore Ladies sorrowes were the greater because shée neither knew the cause , their purposes , nor the meanes to helpe him , but wee must leaue her in her passions and follow him in his captiuity , whom they soone brought in a poasting iourney to Mosco , and lodged him in a strong prison . CHAP. 7. Tragus is arraighned , condemned , and iudged vniustly in the Mosco , who out of the greatnesse of his minde , to mocke Vansusces tyranny kils himselfe . NOw were their daily counsels and consultations held in the Citty , concerning the progresse of this businesse with this Noble-man , by Vansusce and those of his secrets : who ●oo●e grew to be powerfull by : reason of his strong Guards and plurality of friends , that from all parts flocked vnto him . The day was soone appointed for this young Lords tryall , not from his knowen innocence to cléere him , but from their preiudicated doombes to confound him ; the publike place of iudgement was appointed , the Theatre vpon which must be acted this Gentlemans tragedy , thither at the day set downe comes Vansusce in a Princes Roabe , together with his friends , allies , and a strong guard of souldiers , the principal Officers in the Citty accompanying him , and hauing all taken their places , this Princly prisoner is brought in before them who with a chéerefull and vnaffrighted countenance beholds them all . The allegations of treason obiected against him were , that by his procurement the last warre with the Tartars was commenced that cost more treasure and bloud then the victory was worth , that by his sollicitation that vnhappy marriage with the Polish Princes was mediated and concluded , that the Polish Guard was by his meanes brought in , by which , so many outrages were committed that they were driuen to take the course they did for their slaughter , in which the Emperor himselfe past an vnhappy destiny , the guilt of whose death was laid vpon him as being the originall , though not the efficient cause thereof , that the bringing in of tenthousand Poles more was by his counsell vrged , that the Princes treasure was by his prodigal profuse of mony much wasted , that he had allowed the title of the Dukedome of Seuere , to the Crowne and Kingdome of Poland , with other matters not so much as thought vpon , to all which , the Prince answered so fully and so nobly as euery vnpartiall eare found his innocence ; howbeit truth neuer told her tale but enuy was either ready to wrong herby suggestion , or falshood by subornation , for vniust witnesses were produced against him , by whose testimony this innocent Prince was condemned . Vansusce then rising from his Throne , began with a studied and premeditated spéech after this maner , I cannot tell my louing Country-men in what tearmes , or with what words I shall procéed in iudgement against this Noble-man , late kinsman and néere Alley vnto our deare Soueraigne Lord the Emperour , for when I thinke of the times past and compare them with the present , the thought and consideration thereofso strikes me with astonishment , my minde being diuersly distracted betwixt my Countries care and this Noble-mans respect , that I stand deuided in my iudgment , the one pleading rigor , the other pitty , what I shall definatiuly set downe in censure for him or against him ; first giue him his due , who doth not sorrow that so noble a Gentleman , so fully stuft with such excellent parts of mind , of so admirable composure , and constitution of body in the prime of his youth , and beauty in the pride of his state and pleasures , in the solace and comfort of his wife and children , his ouer-héedlesse actions , and ouer-wéening conceit , his owne greatnesse , in abusing the Princes fauour , should now make him vnworthy of his life , by reason of the states present condition : whereas otherwise his life should haue bene most desired . For mine owne part , I would I had not liued at all , or at least , not till this time , wherein sauing my countries care , and the entire respect and affection I beare to all your liues and safeties , I am otherwise euen against the consent of my soule , and my best genious , enforst to pronounce peremptory sentence of iudgement against such a man , to whom but of late I gaue place to in honour . For thus say my priuate thoughts to my common cares , where Nobility , greatnesse , a Princes fauour , or what excellent parts or qualities soeuer , either of body or mind , be in the same subiect that owes them transferred vnto it selfe without respect of common good , to the which he owes a duty , he growes not onely an vnprofitable , but also a dangerous member to that Common-wealth , and where from such a mind there be acts committed , though but criminall , and feares depending of greater consequence in this case , it is more then a politicke or nationall Lawe , it is Religious Iustice , and the seruice of our God , to take away the life of such greatnesse , and make it the peoples sacrifice : and therefore with your consents , since things cannot otherwise stand , or be established , I giue him ouer to the rigour of the Law , and the ministers thereof . All this while this captiue Prince although he saw how closely and indirectly euery thing was carried , and had heard during the time of his imprisonment , the supposed death of the Emperour , the murther of the Poles , and many of great place and office in the Palace , actions so bloudy and so fatall that albeit be knew the world to be full of mischiefe , and the pathes thereof troden with vnsanctifyed féet , yet he thought there wanted that venemous matter in the minde of man to beget , bréed , and bring forth such hideous and horred murders , he doth yet neuerthelesse , neither in the conceit of these inhumane massacers past , nor in the iudurance of his owne vnauoidable miseries present shew tokens of any feare or affrightment , but with the same countenance he held before in his prosperous estate , he now beheld the tiranous authors , and bloody actors of his tragedy , so nobly had the inward vertues of his minde framed and composed the outward actions and gestures of his body : And thus with words as bould , and as vndanted as his lookes , he spake in this manner vnto them . I haue strained withall my best within me , to heare and beare patiently all your vnkind handlings , vniust presumtions , furious Inforcements ; your malicious and manifold appliments , foule wrestings , and impossible constructions , and all to make me séeme to be a member dangerous to the state , to take away my life as a common enemy , which onely must be remoued to make smooth the way to your present ends and intendments , for this cause was the true noble bloud of my royall Lord and kinsman shed , to make you grow vp in this false greatnesse , I speake to the Vansusce , whose inward saule knowes my innocence in all my accusations , and that al this shew of Law is but a form , a méere ingine , or deuice to set a glosse vpon your horred murders past ; and to take away my life by a pretext of iustice , which you persue in mallice , haue I showne my selfe dangerous to my Country , when in the last wars with the Tartars I so little regarded mine owne life , that I spent most of her bloud in that action , and returned victorious against the eie and opinion of all that saw and knew the danger of that day ; did I wrong my Country when with your consents and allowances I made that honourable contract with the Polish Princes ; was that the Treasure I exhausted in that expedition : when mine owne priuate Coffers are yet empty with that charge . For the Polish guard , it was rather my enforced consent , then my voluntary counsell , or approuement , for the title of the Dukedome , with the rest of the Articles , which I scorne to repeate , the great God of my hope knowes me to be as frée either in action , or intention , as he knowes the Vansusce to be guilty of these horrid treasons ; I doe not plead mine innocence to saue my life , for that is foredoomed by an vnchanged decrée , but only to ease my heart of an ouerburdening wait of griefe which your base wrongs , and false wouen iniuries haue contracted there , ( and it , is one comfort yet that I am suffered to speake , I doe not raile either against thy tyranny , or the maleuolence of my starres , there is no man greater then his destiny , neither haue I set the gard of vertue so weakly within me , against the spight of Fortune , or your malice , but that my spirit and resolution can suffer , either in thy inhumaine cruelty Vansusce , or thy vnnatural treachery vild Glasco , or all your hates you vnkind Muscouites , or what else is precious vnto mée , as the losse of wife and children , depriuation of lands and honours , or torment , or death , or whatsoeuer can happen in humanity : All these or what else is in the power of enuy , hate , malice , or tiranouse oppression is beneath me . Life is not my Paramour , I stand not inamourad of her pleasures , the world hath to me adulterated his faire protestations of loue and respect , with the foule prostetucions of the times mischiefe , I haue séene an end of my fortunes , and haue set an end to all my desires , all the ambition that is left in mée is the hopefull enioyment of a far more glorious kingdome , thether doth my soule aspire , and thither shall my spirit mount before your time prefixt , if there be any therefore in this assembly that either is at this time , or shall happen héereafter to rome into the like danger , and would know how to mocke Vansusces tyranny , let him learne it thus by my example : And with that word hauing closly drawne a short dagger hid of purpose for this houre , he stabbed himselfe to the heart , an a● though in it selfe séeming desperate and full of horror , yet in circumstance and considerate respects truly noble and ful of honour that would not suffer his opposite and mortall enemeies to triumph ouer his vertues and the freedome of his spirit in his end . The sudden and voluntary death of this Noble man put them all into amasement , and some there were present and those not of the meaner sort , did for the time so inwardly sorrow for the hard disaster of the Prince his innocence and iniuries that they made outward manifestation thereof by there teares , which Vansusce perceiuing , and in their generall silence a generall sadnesse , that from thence his Plots and Proiects , might be more narrowly looked into with considerate eies , began to looke about and to gather his wits together to draw this inward créeping suspition from the heart of the Muscocite , vpon whose loue and opinion did principally depend the hope and meanes of his procéedings , hée therefore spake againe vnto them so fully for the times condition , so colourable against the guilty life , and rash death of the Prince , and so carefully for the security of the state , together with all their safties , that hée soone turned the gentle currant of their passionate sorrowes into the vast Ocean of their wonted rage , crying out against the house of Demetrius his name and family , and in this new humour , like the flattering Iewes to Herod after his Oration to the people , they falsly guild his words with an Angels eloquence , crying out after their wonted manner , Vansusce , God saue Vansusce , such a turning Phane is the peoples breath , with these much looked for acclamations the Court was presently dissolued , the dead body of the Prince carried backe to Prison , from whence the next day , it was brought forth againe and poorely buried , making the world to stand at amasement , that the earth which neuer failes of meanes in aboundance for a Princes life should now faile in necessaries for his interre-ment . CHAP. 8. The wife of Tragus dies for sorrow his two children are detayned prisoners , Vansusce is crowned Emperour of Rushia , Demetrius , with the Empresse flees into Poland from whence with a great Army he returnes backe into Rushia : the warre begins . AFter this tall Ceader of the Rushian state was , from the mountaine of his greatnesse , thus pulled downe : many lower trées and shrubbes past the like fortune , for whosoeuer stoode in Vansusces way must be remooued , till it was made smooth from any oblique let for his transcending glory , euen to the maiestike state of the Rushian Empire , treacherous Glasco being the principall agent , and speciall instrument for his designes , and Intendments . But before we set the Crowne on this vsurpers head , whilest the preparations be now in framing for his Coronation , wée will looke a little backe into the wretched state , and miserable condition of this vntimely Widdowed Lady , wife to the late noble Prince Tragus , and his two sonnes , both so young that they were not capable of their calamity : To write of this Ladies teares , and hir profound sorrowes , were but like a Painter to counterfeit by art the teares of Lucresse for her enfrost wrong done to Collatyne , or the true bred woes of Porcia for her déere Lord Brutus , to shew outwardly the presentation of such tragike spectacles , and so to féede the phantasie with imaginary griefe , in which neuertstelesse their is neither life , nor sense of reall sorrow . To leaue therfore these teares with her that was the true owner of them , who presently also leauing the world and the pleasures thereof enclosed hirselfe in a religious house , where with long fasting , and déepe melancholy , spending her daies alone in the exercise of sorrow , in short time she ended her life , leauing behind her a notable example of loue and constancy : his two sonnes are yet liuing , but detained as prisoners by Vansusce , howbeit happily reserued to better fortunes . Now is Vansusce arriued at that Hauen he a long time did bend his course vnto , euen through a Sea of bloud , where neuerthelesse he shall not finde that safty that he expects , for dangerous is the State that is obtained by bloud and treason , as the sequell shall declare , the Emperiall Crowne of Rushia being now set vpon his head , there fell mischiefes thicke , and as the thing euill gotten is seldome , or neuer well kept , thorow all the time of his vsurped raigne there neuer ceased bloudy war and slaughter , no not in his owne destruction and captiuity for he had scarse time to finish the state and solemnity of his Coronation , before he heard newes of the great preparations in Poland , both to reueng the treasonable wrongs done to the Emperour , and also the murder of the Poles , or rather which is most like , Sigismond the King of Poland making these but colourable pretenses for higher dessignes of another nature , both to recouer the Dukedome of Seueare , to the which hée challenged a title , and further , as the successe should follow to inuade the whole Empire of Rushia , and to kéepe it for himselfe , to make another entry that way into the Kingdome of Swethland , such a passage had this ciuill discention made , euen for the ouerthrow of the whole state , but wée must now returne to the lawfull Emperour Demetrius , who being by the happy fortune of his birth a Prince , was now by the malignant power of his fate a fugitiue , for hauing about some few of his friends that followed him in all fortunes , hée gaue them in charge to looke carefully to the kéeping of that Dukedome , it being still a receptacle for them in the worst of danger while he with his vnhappy Lady in great danger and strange disguise together with his trusty seruant past from Colloge , and after a long and weary iourny at last tooke the Riuer of Ipre , and with safty recouered the Territories of the Polish Kingdome . Sigismond hauing notice of their comming , sendeth his safe conduct , together with directions for their entertainment , but not in the state and sumptuous manner as before , for in a change of fortune we finde a change of friendship and account , being neuerthelesse come to Court , they were honorably welcomed , and comforted after their many endured miseries , where they rested themselues awhile till the preparations for Rushia were made ready , it being an Army of fourty thousand souldiers . With this new raised power , Demetrius raiseth new hopes , both to recouer and to reuenge , which fell not out according to his desire , man purposeth but God disposeth . Now Vansusce hearing of this great preparation in Poland , fortifies the Citty of Mosco , and other places of import , gathering souldiers from all parts to strengthen his faction , bearing the Muscouite in hand that it was the police of the Polish King to haue entertained some stragling runnagate to take vpon him the name and state of Demetrius , only to countenance this inuasion ; staying by this suggestion the vncertaine minde of the Muscouite , that otherwise he knew would be diuersly carried . But Demetrius being now in all things furnished for the trantposing of this great Army into Rushia , takes his leaue of the King and Quéene and other of his friends in Poland , but aboue all , of his deare beloued Empresse , whom his vnhappy eies shall neuer behold againe ; to shew her sorrow in his departure , were to stay vs in the pursuite of this great war that must be prosecuted with all spéed and cruelty , Demetrius thereforewith many long marches , at last had past the frontires of the Polish Kingdom , he no sooner had set footing vpon the Territories of his owne Empire but the miseries of the war began , and that Country that before flourished with along countinued peace , and was growne excéeding rich both in their owne abundance , and a prosperous commerce with others , began now to be spoiled and harried of hir plenty ; fire and sword being the executiones : the Pole spoiled and killed in all places in reuenge of the Massacre done in the Mosco , sparing neither sort , nor sex , in any state or age , whom they met withall , neuerthelesse the most of them had before fled into Citties , Castles , Woods and other defensible places . Thus mischiefe hauing set footing in Rushia , it did in a short time take such rooting , that in a long time after shée was not supplanted , Demetrius either giuing consent therto , or else wanting power in himselfe to curbe her , howbeit he made as much spéede as he could to Mosco , either to make the spoile of his Country lesse by his hasty marches , or otherwise burning in desire to be reuenged on that place where he had receiued such wrong and outrage . Being at last come to Mosco , he beleagers the Citty , but findes an vnexpected resistance , it being so strengthened with men and munition that it was wel-néere vnpregnable , all plaof strength and import about the Citty were in short time subdewed and giuen to the Pole , who executes all manner of cruelty : Demetrius laies wait in all places to cut off all succour that should be brought into the Citty , so that the Muscouite in short time endured great want and misery , to wright all the particulars of this siege , that continued for the space of two yéers , would aske a whole volume by it selfe ; I will onely touch the most speciall occurrants , according to my best intelligence that happened in that time . Vansusce vnderstanding the miseries that the Country people indured by the cruelty of the Poles , and fearing all great miseries in the Citty , if the fiege endured , sent spéedily and secretly his Cursitours to Charles King of Sweathland , whom hée knew to be mortall enemy to Sigismond King of Poland , demanding vpon certaine condicions his aid to remoue the Leagure . King Charles hauing at that time an Army of French , English , and Scottish , in pay for any occasion offered from Sigismond , but vnderstanding at that time all his preparations were disposed of in Rushia , and knowing also that it the Pole set footing their hée should find him more dangerous there then in his owne Country , yéelds easily to Vansusces demand , imploying the forces of those strangers which he had strengthened with many companies of Swethens , to the full number of twelue thousand vnder the conduct and generall command of one Pontus de la Guard , a French Captaine , a man of more fame then worth among them . CHAP. 9. Sr. Robert Sherly comes as Embassadour from the Persian to Demetrius in the Leager , the Muscouite mutiny , but are appeased , Glasco is suspected , conuicted , arraigned , and executed in the Mosco . KNesevansusee albeit he bare no great affection to King Charles , and was loth also that so many strangers should bée brought into Rushia , to harry and spoyle the Country , yet knowing the difference that was betwixt him and Sigismond King of Poland , he held it his best to make vse therof , to serue his owne turne in their dissention , and by any meanes rather to remooue the pole , then vpon the best conditions to yéelde vnto their habitation there , making choice rather of a sufferable than an intollerable stranger . Now while these forces were thus a raising in Swethland for these designes in Russia , Demetrius with his Army lying still before the City of Mosco , that braue Spirit of England , Sir Robert Sherley , came as Embassador to Demetrius from the Sophie of Persia , demanding his aide in the generall hostility to be made by christian princes against the common enemy the Turke , where hee found that entertainement that those tumultuous times in warrelike leager could afford , but for the matter of his Embassie , the present troubles cut off the meanes of any present aid , so that after his stay there some few daies , hauing receiued many honourable giftes and presents hée departed , onely furnished with hopes and faire promises , howbeit his comming thither put the Muscouite into more then a presumption , that it was the true Demetrius that beleagerd their Citty , and that the report of his death was but a fained matter , insomuch that in most places , especially in the Mosco , they beganne to murmure , whispering one to an other , that God had forsaken the guidance of them and their Citty , and had giuen them ouer into the hands of strangers and others for their disloyalty , they saide betwéene themselues , that it could not be that the King of Poland , other Princes , and many noble men of Russia in the leager could be so long deceiued with a counterfet Emperour , but either his countenance , behauiour , spéech or som ones report or other would betray him . They compared the times present with the times past , and found that the Errours and Indiscretions of a yong Prince , being their naturall Lord , were more easie to endure than the milder gouernement of an Vsurper , for that the abuse and instabilitie of his estate had drawne infinite daungers and miseries by a contrary faction , which they now endured in no meane degrée , and were like héereafter to suffer in the greatest extreames these murmurings and priuie whisperings being brought to Vansusces eare , he beganne to looke about , and to preuent all occasions that might be offered for the raising of a faction within the Citty , hée therefore sought to pacifie the Muscouites in the best manner he could , and withall sent colourably ( vnder safe conduct ) certaine Gentlemen his friends to the Emperour in the Leager , that if he were the right Demetrius his true and lawfull Prince , he should shew it in a naturall loue and care vnto his Countrey , and not suffer him to be thus defiled with the bloud of his people , by the Poles crueltie , and for his owne part , if he found that it were so , he would not onely surrender vp vnto him , the Title and gouernement that he now held , together with the Citty and other places in his command , but also in all submission acknowledge and serue him in all faithfulnesse and duety as his naturall liege Lord , hée further instructed them to excuse him in the plottes and courses that hée had taken , and to blame but respectiuely his sufferance in the abuses of the Poles , that had drawne on the hatred and indignation of the Muscouite , so farre as being gathered to a head , and breaking forth into action , it prooued as a raging Torrent or violent Inundation that no wayes could be stopped : hée willed them further to descend into particularities , and to touch the seuerall factions on his part , that it stoode him vpon to take the aduantage of his friends offers , and the opportunity of euery reuolt , to the end that the head of all , which was himselfe , might be the surer garded , and this ( hée said ) hée learned of Nature and Necessitie , that teacheth euery creature to defend herselfe , and that albeit he could a long time endure the siege , and that hée knew also the Forces were ready in Swethland to attempt the Leager , he would yet neuerthelesse giue ouer these new hopes and designes for warre , and with all his best , endeuour to conclude a peace , protesting with this conclusion , that if by his maiesties fauor hée might enioy those lands , honors , and offices , to the which partly he was borne , partly he enioyed by the deceased Emperours gift , and his owne admission , no Prince in the world should finde a more loyall subiect or more faithfull Gentleman than himselfe . Demetrius albeit he suspected a Padde in this straw , did neuerthelesse either simply or colourably put them in hope of a Parlée , and for a time held a cessation , discharging the Messengers with faire words and countenance , who at their returne into the Citty , gaue out that this was not the true Demetrius , but a counterfet by Vansusces instructions , and that if they held out but a few dayes till the comming of the Swethen Army , the Leager would easily be remooued . Vansusce also bestirres himselfe to stirre vp the Muscouite to endure the siege vntil the comming of King Charles his forces : In the meane time Demetrius had vnderstanding secretly of some causes of discontent giuen from Vansusce to the traytour Glasco , both in the barres to his expected recompence , and also in the change of Vansusces fauour and countenance , for it is commonly so with Vsurpers , when their turnes are serued by such Ministers , whohauing made all the vse of them they can , they conuert their seruices done , into iniuries , especially where there is an expectation of rewarde aboue merit , for benefites with tyrants are of no longer pleasure , than they can with ease restore them , that once transcended , they study not how to reward , but to kill : for Glasco supposed that his seruices to Vansusce were of such woorth and greatnes , that halfe the Empire had béene scarse his recompence . Demetrius therefore striuing to worke vppon this his discantent , and that by him some meanes might be wrought for the surprise of the Citty , sent secretly his Lecters vnto Glasco , wherein after hee had touched ( but in gentle termes ) his disloyalty , he willed him to consider that there was no way for him to recouer the loue and opinion both of God and man , but to vntreade againe those steppings of treason , which from a corrupt minde his guiltie féete had before trodden , promising him in the word of a Prince , that if hée would find meanes for him to enter the Citty , hée would not onely pardon what was past , but restore him againe into his wonted place and fauour . These Letters being intercepted , were brought to Vansusce , who presently caused this traytour to be committed to prison , where hauing a long time endured much miserie , hée was at last arraigned and condemned , and finally , were he faulty , were hée faultlesse hée was executed in the Mosco , a fit death for such a life . There were many others of his confederacie , which because I knew not their names , I would not mention their actions , but this I deliuer from report , that none of them all died their naturall death , onely one excepted , that yet liues in a pelting Village in Ruscia , poore , wretched , miserable and hated of all the world . CHAP. 10. King Charles of Swethland sendeth an army of twelue thousand Souldiers into Ruscia , vnder the command of Pontus de la Gard a French Coronell , the Ruscians ioyne with them and remooue the Leager : the Emperour Demetrius flees againe into the Dukedome of Colloge . NOw must the miseries of Ruscia be augmented by the comming of this Armie compounded of so many Nations , English , French , and Scots . For though they came as a friend , and for their aide , yet who can stay an Armie from spoile and rapine , which the vnhappy Ruscian found true in the pursuite of this bloudy warre , not onely in their goodes and cattelles , but euen in their wiues and daughters , which in all places were made a prostituted prey to the lustfull appetite of the Souldiers . It was about the beginning of Summer , that this Army of King Charles descended into Ruscia , vnder the commaund o● the aforenamed French Coronell Pontus de la Gard , who with all spéede marched with this Armie to the Cittie of Mosco , encamping in the most commodious place they could find neare to the Polish Leager . Demetrius was before aduised to remooue , by them who fore-iudged the proofe of that which the sequel manifested , foreséeing that it would be a hard matter for Demetrius to resist both the Forces of the Mosco , and this new raised power , for being much wearied with a long siege , being now also with this fresh Armie , in a manner beleagerd themselues , they seene found the want of victualles and other necessaries , which in a short time brought them to great miserie , and to increase the Swethen Army , Demetrius the brother of Vansusce aduaunceth himselfe forward with twentie thousand Russians , to ioyne with the Swethen forces . Now are all places sorestalled that might bring in succours to the Polish Leager . The Emperour Demetrius was now in greater miserie than euer before : for besides the wants which he endured , the Poales themselues beganne to murmure and muteny against him , insomuch as he was often times enforced to heare many contumelious words and reproaches pronounced against him , that he was an vnhappie Prince , borne to a disastrous fortune , and not onelie for himselfe , but also for such as should take part with him . The Councells that were daily held were continually diuided , some aduise to make their way thorow the Swethen Armie , others to continue the Leager , the most to parlée , the last was the worst that Demetrius liked , knowing well that there would be no composition made without his deliuery , either aliue or dead into the hands of Vansusce , which though the Poales knew it was for their best safety so to do , yet they did abhorre it as an execrable déed , to betray a Prince whom they had vndertaken to protect , and to yéelde him to his enemies hands whom they had vowed to defend . To continue the Leager , was without all possibilitie of effecting , victualles growing so scarce in the Campe , that all prouision was deuoured so farre as they were enforced to eate their horses ; and from this scarcitie followed a great mortallitie . The Poale being so straitly ingirt , that they wanted ground to bury the dead , the vnhappy Prince sits alone in his tent , all desolate and dismayed , wanting both courage and councell in these extreames ; in the Campe he fées his dignitie decreased , and his commaund not respected ; in his Tent he feares murder , in his Cuppe poyson : and though the causes of these feares were false , there being no such in tendments , yet to a troubled minde ouerwhelmed with sorrow , oppressed with care , distracted with opinion what comfort or conceit can assure , his friends being a few noble men of Russia that were about him , comfort him and councell him , that he would aduenture with those companies of Russians hée had yet in his commaund , which were faithfull to him in all fortunes , being neuerthelesse not aboue the number of a thousand men , make an attempt in the dead of the night for their escape , euen through the Swethen Armie , the necessitie of the time and place say they vrge you to this dangerous resolution or to die , there being no third way for you to take : you shall not néede to feare our loyalties , because our owne liues lies in the same hazard , and if wée line or die , it shall be our glories , that we haue either frée●d you from this danger , or that we haue communicated our seruice to the fortunes of our Prince . For the attempt it selfe , it may happily not prooue so full of perill as it appeares to be , for that the darkenesse of the night , the suddennesse of the action , and the aduantage of the place , wherein we are quarterd , being but against the skirtes of the Swethen Armie , may happily make our way with more safety , and lesse losse than you imagine , howsoeuer it falles out , the greatest danger dwells héere , where to remaine , there is nothing more certaine than certaine destruction . These words , together with the desperate condition of their estates , made him suddenly to apprehend the plot , and to entertaine with courage the resolution of this attempt , which was done so closely and so secretly , as it was not discouered till the larum was giuen : this was about the noone of the day , all the after noone was spent in councell , and in giuing directions , which also was done so couertly , as the Poales themselues doubted nothing lesse than that which was intended . Now is the houre come wherein Demetrius must passe as great or a greater danger ( by all opinion ) than that of the Castle in Mosco , but with lesse feare or sorrow : for his vnhappy fortunes had now so inured him to such disastrous accidents , that his mind séemed to be suted to his miserie , all things therefore being ready , they beginne to dislodge , the larum was first giuen in the Swethen Armie , and was so suddenly answered in all places , that it bred a horrible confusion , the Poales feared a surprize from the Swethen Army , the Swethen from the Poales . When they came into the Emperours Tent , not finding either his Guard or himselfe , they cried out , that he had betrayed them . Pontus de la Gard drawes the best of his Foxes to the head of his Campe , and there attends all attempts , whilest the Emperor with the losse of a few men had passed the danger , the darkenes of the night being a great help vnto him , his guides before day had brought him out of all feare from any followers , howbeit many of the Poales followed after , and yéelded themselues afterward to him in Colloge . All this time both the Campes stoode still without anie attempt on either side . The Citty also not knewing the matter were soone in Armes , howbeit kept themselues within the walles , in the morning the Poales found the plot , and being driuen euery way to obey necessitie , they required Capitulations of truce with Vansusce , which was granted , the Articles drawne , the composition made , the Poles dislodgd , and with colours displayd , they went , some into other parts of Russia , turning Cossakes , and liuing vpon spoyle , some backe into Poland , who hauing related to their King the manner of Demetrius flight , and by it their owne enforcements , he renounced for euer his friendship and alliance , protesting from thence foorth neuer to aide him either with men or money . But though hée séemed to be discontent , hée was neuerthelesse inwardly glad that such occasion was proffered , in his owne behalfe to reuenge and recouer the losse hée had sustained , and vnder this colour , together with the broken Title hée had to the Dukedome of Seuean , to inuade the whole Empire of Russia , and to kéepe it for himselfe , which shortly after hée in person did , as you shall heare . And thus was the Polish Leager all this time remooued . CHAP. 11. Kneseuansusce continues still his vsurped authoritie . Sigismond King of Poland descends into Russia with an army of a hundred thousand men : he beseegeth Smalensco , and the great Citty of Mosco . The Emperour Demetrius makes another attempt , but is driuen backe into the Dukedome of Collogue . NOw stoode Vansusce higher in state and opinion of the people than euer before : Now were there daily feastings and triumphs in the Citty , and all dedicated to Vansusces fortunes , Orations made daily in the publique Hall to the people of eternall praise and immortall thankes to Vansusces greatnesse , euen aboue the straine of slatterie , attributing the safetie and preseruation of their liues and goodes to his wisedome and prouidence , together with the generall good of the whole Land , reduced by him from a manifest danger of vtter destruction , the benefit of whose peace ( say they ) and happy state next vnder God , wée deriue from his Imperiall Maiestie in his naturall and politique body , the one so absolute in bloud and qualitie , the other so excellent in State and Councell , that as he giues place to no Prince liuing for Stile and Territorie , reaching from the Riuer of Ipre , to the Caspian Sea , in Fame and Glorie they all giue place to him ; and it is the vniuersall Ioy of the whole Empire , that to a Prince voluptuous and full of defects , as was Demetrius , there hath succéeded a Prince of such high worth and estimation . They also gaue great praises and giftes to the French , English and Scottish for their paines taken , and valours shewne , in their defence , still retayning them in the Mosco for their garrison . But though the Citty was for a time thus deliuered , and in quiet , the Poles that remained still in the Countrey , hauing taken many Castles , and strengthened themselues in many places , commit all manner of vnspeakeable cruelty and villany on the poore people , who can call nothing they haue their owne , neither wiues , children , nor goodes , but are all made a prostituted prey to the Poles lust and rapine ; in their houses , sword and fire destroyeth them , in the woods , hunger and colde deuouceth them . Thus the poore Russians in many parts of the countrey doe miserably foele or endure , eyther aliue or dead , the bondage of the Poles tyranny . Yet these afflictions and calamities present , are but as a sufferable paine or disease , inflicting one part or limbe , in respect of the vniuersall mischiefe following , that tormented and almost destroyed the whole bodie of the Empire . For by this time Sigismond King of Poland raiseth a mighty Army , compounded of many Nations , as Tartars , Leiflanders , Coerlanders , together with some Companies of English , Scottish and Dutch , and many numbers of Cossakes , which bée people drawne from all partes , following onely for spoyle and prey . Vansusce hearing of these great preparations in Poland , fortifies the Mosco and other places of import in the Empire , but especially the Citty of Smalensco , whereof one KneIacob a Noble man of great power and vertue , was Duke and Gouernour , howbeit at that time , for some reasons , he committed the gouernement and defence of that Citty to an other whose name I could not learne . Thus all things being in a readinesse , both with the Pole for inuasion , and the Russian for resistance , Sigismond aduaunceth forward with his Army , consisting of a hundred thousand fighting men . This was about Michael , masse in the yeare 1609. for he stayed of purpose till their Haruest was ended for the reliefe of his Armie . Being descended into Russia , he came with his whole forces before the Citty of Smalensco , one Chollcosce a noble souldier that had done many honourable seruices against the Turke , being his Lieutenant generall . Now had Vansusce ( which I should haue remembred before ) sent to King Charles of Swethland for more ayde , who presently dispatched his Messengers to France , England , and the lowe Countries for men . There were taken vp in England of Voluntaries , English , and Scottish , two thousand vnder the commaund of Captaine Caluine a Scottishman , lieutenant Coronel to my Lord of Wormston , and of Captaine Coborne a valiant Souldier Coronell of the horse . There were also sent at that time out of France , and the low Countries , to the number of one thousand more , the French vnder the commaund of Monsleur la Vile a Captaine of name and worth among them , the Dutch vnder the commaund of Coronell Doue : the English and Scottish Forces arriued in Swethland about the latter end of Maie , some in the Nulies , some at Stock-holland , and some in other places , as the vncertaintie of winde and weather draue them . But being all at length met at Stockhollam , entertained , mustered , and sworne vnto King Charles , our Forces , together with the French and Dutch , which by this time were all mette , stayed there the most part of the Summer , vntill the latter end of August , in which time the King had made his preparations ready for his Intendments towardes Russia . About the beginning of September these Forces tooke shipping for Russia , but by contrary windes were driuen vpon Fynland , where because the Commaunders had no directions to land their men , the frost ouertaking them , and victualls failing aboorde , our people vnaccustomed to so colde a climate , dyed in great numbers , for want of foode , and abundance of colde , insomuch that being not able to indure the extremitie , they landed their Forces by directions from the Gouernour of Abo , a towne scituate vppon the Sea : from thence to march to the Cittie of Wyborrough , being distant from the place of landing thrée score and tenne leagues , in which march they lost by the extremity of the colde , many of their men by the way , and many were left behinde sicke , that neuerthelesse did afterward recouer the Army . At the last being come to the Cittie of Wyborrough in Fynnland , our Troupes reléeued themselues after this long weary march , and being kindly entertained of the Bourgers , kept their Christmasse in the citie , and rested there for the space of fouretéene dayes , wanting no necessaries that their present case required . After this time expired , our Troupes marched thrée daies iourney to the Sea side , that Sea being narrow in that place , parting Fynland and Russia : héere they marched eight leagues vppon the Ice , and hauing once set footing in Russia , the people of the Countrey being vnacquainted of their comming , forsooke their houses , fléeing into the woods and other vnknowne places , for the miserie of the warre was so great by the outrages of the Souldiers , that they found cause to distrust all , aswel those that came to defend them , as such as came to destroy them . Yet our troupes committed no other spoile in their march , but onely in their prouision for victualls , which in all places they found in aboundance , our Troupes marched in small iourne is the foure moneths following , Ianuarie , Februarie , March and Aprill , vnder the guide and conduct of one Burrisse a Noble man of the Countrey , appoynted by Vansusce for that businesse ; in which march they fréeed those partes of the Countrey , which the Pole before was possessed of , as the first , a towne of import called Stallarusse , which the Pole forsooke vppon their comming , and fled . But Monsieur la Vile following them with a few horse , cut them in péeces . They marched from thence to a Towne of defence called Costasco , which the Pole had a little before beleagerd , but vpon an assault made , hauing found an vnexpected resistance . And hearing the approach of the strangers , they fled before our comming . By this time the Sunne in his delight some progresse hauing passed the Equinoctiall , had turned the wearie wrackes of wastefull winter , into the cheerefull view of the Summers beauty , at which time , it being in the beginning of Maie , our Troupes recouerd a very pleasant country , where in great plenty they found all necessaries for horse and man. After some few dayes march in this champian countrey our Troupes receiued intelligence where the Enemy lay , to the number of seauen or eight thousand , at a Towne called Arioua some foure score verts , which is thrée score English miles from them . This Arioua was a great Towne , scituate on the side of a hill , pleasant to looke vppon , the great riuer of Vollga running through it , and as it were , equally parting it in the middest , with a strong and faire Castle in it ; howbeit the Towne vnwalled and vndefensible . Our men hauing receiued true relation , both concerning the Towne , the Poles strength , the distance , and the best way that leadeth vnto it , they entered into councell , what best was to be done for the surprize of this Towne , and a non slaught of the Poles , and as alwayes in such cases of weight , there are diuersitie of Iudgements and Opinions , some giuing councell one way , some another , the brauest spirites stirred vp with honourable emulation of others fame and greatnes , presse forward for employment . Coronell Coborne being the first that desired to haue the vndertaking of this businesse with fiue hundred horse ; but his plot being disliked , as being too full of danger , Monsieur la Vile the French Coronell vndertooke with foure hundred horse to doe some notable seruice or other , as occasion should be proffered . For many times in such doubtfull cases , vnlooked for Accidents and vnplotted attempts finde better opportunitie and successe in preuayling vppon the sudden , than premeditated and fore-decréed Councells . Thus hauing taken some of euery Troupe , English , Scottish , and French , with the aide of thrée other Captaines , as Captaine Cosmorre , a Moore , a very valiant Souldier , brought vp in the warres of the Netherlands , the other Captaine Crale an Englishman , and Captaine Creton a Scottishman , with this number of foure hundred horse . La Vile earely in the morning leauing the Armie in their quarters , marched towards Arioua , by the way they mette with a Conskippe of the Enemy , being a hundred horse vppon the skirt of a wood , if beeing sent from the maine Armie in Arioua as a scowt-watch to discouer our Troupes , for they had Intelligence before of our being in the Countrey . Their Vancurriers hauing espied our forces , gaue the larum , and presently turned backe and fled , but our Troupe followed , flew some , forced others to take the riuer of Vollga , tooke many prisoners , the rest fled , fyring the Countrey as they went , and brought the newes of our approach to Arioua . La Vile with his troups held on his course , méeting with no other Occurrents by the way till hée came to a little riuer , which they found so déepe , and the current running so swift by reason of the late dissoluing of the Snowe , that they knew not how to passe ouer . La Vile himselfe proffered to giue the attempt , but was stayed by others that looked into the daunger : a French Souldier of his Troupe , shewing more courage than foresight , tooke the riuer with his horse , and by the violence of the Streame , were both drowned . Here they spent some time to séeke out a foord , but found none : at last they espied a narrow place , where ( pulling downe an olde house standing hard by ) with the rafters thereof they made a little bridge , vppon which they passed on foote , swimming ouer with their horses in their hands . Thus they marched forward till they came within sight of Arioua about the noone time of the day . La Vile when he came within view of the Towne , and saw how it stoode parted by the riuer of Vollga , might perceiue afarre off on the other side of the Towne , the Enemies colours displayed in great numbers , the sodainenesse of the action bred a terrour on both partes , the Poales verily beléeuing that the maine Armie of our Forces to be at hand , and our troups supposing the Enemies strength to be as great on that side the riuer as on the other , though vndescried , howbeit they kept on their march towards the Towne , with resolution to doe some notable seruice , eyther by death or victorie : when they came within halfe a league of the Towne , they espied fiue hundred horses of the Enemie aduanced against them , where on the sodaine both sides awhile stood in gaze one of an other : at last fourty of the Enemies horses were drawne foorth , with proffer of a charge after the manner of a Brauada , a twelue or sixetéene of our horses gaue an onset to answer them , slew some , and beat the rest backe into their maine strength , so that both partes againe stood in gaze one of an other . Some doubted that it was the policie of the Pole to draw our Forces néerer to the Towne , and so to encompasse them with their Armie on the other side of the riuer . But La Vile , whose courage ouercame all feare , séeing no third way to be taken , but eyther that night to die , or to be Maisters of the Towne , out of a braue and honourable minde , with a few words in Dutch , did after this maner encourage his Souldiers , Wée haue come ( saith he ) thus farre ( my louing friends and followers ) with purpose and resolution to doe some speciall seruice or other , in the honour of our Countries , and profession , for aduauncing the successe of the maine action for this Land against the Poles tyranny in the behalfe of the King of Swethen . This place of Commaund which at this time I enioy with your consents , I will striue with all my power to discharge , as well for your safeties and contentments , as mine owne honour and reputation , and though we be of seuerall Nations , Languages , and Customes , we are in this businesse tyed together in an indissoluble band of loue and partnership , eyther to liue or die together , the best hope is , wée haue one God to defend vs all , whose out-stretched arme ouer-swayeth all : let not then eyther our owne weakenesse , or our Enemies strength affright vs , for besides the atchiuements of Honour that pricketh forward euerie worthy minde , there is a necessitie to put vs forward , for backe we cannot goe , without certaine dishonour and destruction , all places being harried and spoiled by the Pole , and no reliefe to be found : the riuers also and the champian fields will giue them aduantage with their numbers to heamme vs in , and cut vs in péeces : and if I be not deceiued , they stand in more doubt of vs , than we of them , as I iudge by the vncertaine wauing of their colours on the other side the riuer , and it may be all their feare hath giuen them false Intelligence , that wée are to receiue seconds from our maine Armie , which they suppose to be at hand . From this feare of theirs springeth my hope , that in spight of the Poales Armie wée shall rest in yonder Towne this night , and with that , crying out with a high voyce and spirite , Ihesus met ounce , which in English is , Iesus be with vs , with a braue courage they aduanced forward . Captayne Cosmorre with the Englishmen gaue the charge , and was seconded by the French men . The Pole séeing the charge thus made with such resolution , fearing ( as it was afterward knowne ) the approach of our maine Armie , turned their backes , and fled . Notwithstanding they had a second of foure hundred horses more , our troupes followed with all spéede , slew many with the sword , the most of them tooke the riuer of Vollga , thinking to recouer their maine Army , but the greatest numbers of them were drowned . Our troupes thus entred the towne of Arioua without any other resistance , and found the castle abandoned , at which they maruelled , that a Towne and Castle of such strength and import , hauing eight thousand men to defend it , should be thus forsaken . CHAP. 12. Vansusce sends his forces to ioyne with the strangers , to the number of thirty thousand . Pontus de la Gard Generall of the strangers , attempts to rayse the Poles Leager from Smalensco , but in a set battell is fought withall and ouerthrowne by the Pole. ARioua being thus taken in , our Troups rested there thrée dayes till our maine Armie came vp , in which time the Pole stayed in the Towne on the other side the riuer . But when they saw the approach of all our forces , they hastned their departure , and because they supposed the Inhabitants had betrayed them , they set fire on that side of the Towne in the dead of the night , onely to reuenge suspition , where after a most cruell and barbarous maner , they burned and slew , man , woman , and child ; a lamentable sight it was , to beholde the flame , and to heare the confused cries of the people , which was the more miserable , because , as there was no pittie in the Pole to respect them , so there was no way in our Troups to reléeue them , by reason of the riuer , which for want of boats they could not passe . The Poles hauing thus satisfied their rage vpon the poore Russian with blood & fire like incarnate diuells , without remorce , leauing this miserable people of all sortes and sexes , from the impotencie of Age , to the innocence of Infants , burning in that earths hell of horror , they marched away with drummes beating , trumpets sounding , colours displaying , as if they had effected some notable atchieuement . Early in the morning , La Vile perceiuing them marching away , hauing had the night before many boats brought vp the riuer by the Russe , carried his principall Forces ouer , and with all spéede followed them . The first night they ouertooke them in their quarters , slew many of them , tooke many of their colours , and forced the rest to flée , who still burning and spoyling the Country as they went , left no reliefe to helpe our Forces in the pursuite , so that in thrée dayes , hauing cléered all that part of the Countrey , they returned to Arioua , where our Armie rested some fouretéene dayes : and as contraries are euer best knowne by their contraries , they sound the excellencie of rest after their labour , and of plenty after their wants . For héere they found all things in aboundance that in many places before they wanted . Not long after La Vile with Cosmer the Moore , and lieutenant Conisby a very resolute Souldier , tooke in a Towne called Pogrilla , together with a strong Skonce manned by the Pole , taking it vpon a sur prize in the night putting them all to the sword onely the Gouerneur , and some few other reserued , La Vile , within a while after , went to the Mosco , accompanied with many Officers , English , Scottish , and French , where Vanscusce entertained them with liberall gifts and rewards to euery one . Héere they met with Pontus de la Gard , and found a great power of the Russians in a readinesse for seruice . Sigismond lying all this while before Smalensco , vnderstanding of the frée passages , that the strangers had made thorow the Countrey euen to the Mosco . And hauing receiued further Intelligence , that their Forces were ready to ioyne with resolution to attempt to raise the Leager from before Smalensco , sent vppon the sodaine Chollcosce his lieutenant generall with fiftéene thousand Launsiers , and thirtie thousand Cossakes to take a Skance of great import called Gregory , that lieth in the common passage betwéen two great woods from Mosco to Smalensco . This Skonce being thus strongly beleagered on all sides , Vansusce raiseth his Armie from the Mosco , constituting his brother Demetrius their Generall , who ioyning with the strangers Forces , of whom Pontus la Gard had the commaund , they march towards the Skonce of Gregory , the whole Armie consisting of fortie thousand . Being come within two daies march of the Skonce , the Enemy hauing gotten intelligence by some of our fugitiues , of the approach of this Armie , their numbers and purposes , which was to surprize them in the night vppon a nonslaught . Cholcosce to preuent their proiect the night before , drawes out of his Leager thrée thousand and fiue hundred Launsiers , being Noble men and Gentle men of the best rancke and resolution , that came with the King out of Poland , together with seuen thousand Cossakes , and with this number , hauing nine thousand Launsiers more for a second , closely in the night they marched ; and earely in the morning , which was Midsummer day , they fell sodainely vpon our quarters . Our men trusting that the Muscouite , who knew the Countrey , would by the Scowt-watches haue giuen the larum of any sodaine approach . But the Russe not daring to stirre out of their quarters , was the cause of our vnhappy defeature , and their owne vtter ouerthrow , for our men being thus put into amazement by the larum giuen . Pontus de la Gard did according to the shortnesse of the time , and the weight of the danger ) dispose in this manner of his Forces , the vangard he gaue to Edward Horne a full Souldier and a braue Commaunder with his Regiment of Fynlanders , who were the first that stoode the Poles charge . But being ouercharged by the Poles number of Launsters , they fled , scarse abiding the charge . Coronell Coborne commaunding the English horse , aduaunced forward with his Troupes , to answer the Pole. The French and Dutch did the like . But Cholcosce finding them weakely armd and horsed , being also encouraged before with the ouerthrow of the Fynlanders , with corage and resolution followed the tract of his fortune ; and in short time ouerthrew the whole Forces of the strangers horse , but with the death of many of his owne Launsiers , The whole Army of the Russe séeing the fortune of our forces , being themselues out of danger , fled , without stroke striking . The companies of our foote , séeing the successe of the day , did barrocad● themselues with Cartes and Waggons , with resolution to fight it out to the last man , or to take some honorable composition . Which Cholcosce perceiuing , and doubting some further stratagem , his returne also backe to the Skonce of Gregory being of moment , satisfying himselfe at that time with the glorie of this day , made a tender of these proffers following , that if they would giue ouer their strength , they should be at libertie , eyther to serue the Emperour , or the King of Pole with the same pay they had : if they would returne to the King of Swethland ; they should haue leaue , if into theyr owne Countries , they should haue licence , and helpe to passe through the Poles Country , with the Kings fauour . These proffers were accepted , and they hauing yéelded , did seuerally dispose of themselues , some backe to the Emperour , some to the King of Swethen , the most of them to the Pole , many home into their Countries . Thus was this great Armie vnhappily disperced , that neuer met together againe . Pontus de la Gard , Edward Horne , La Vile , Collayne , and Coborne , with a few Officers , and some Souldiers , to the number of fiue hundred , returned backe to the King of Swethen . CHAP. 13. The Emperor Demetrius returnes from Colloge with a hundred thousand men and beleagers Mosco on the one side of the towne , Cholcosce on the other . Vansusce is taken prisoner , and sent into Poland . Demetrius flees againe to Colloge , and is at last miserably slayne by a Tartare . VAnsusce hearing of the ouerthrow of his Army , was much troubled in his minde , especially for the defeature of the strangers , vpon whom he principally trusted : he now saw , that the hand of God was against him in dangers ineuitable , which by humane reason and iudgement , he could not auoyde , he feared Demetrius on the one side , that had drawne together in Colloge a hundred thousand men , with purpose to besiege the Mosco on the other side . He knew the Poales forces before Smalensco , and that they were still re-informed with new supplies : hée feared Gregory could not hold out that Skonce , bearing his name which Cholcosce had beleagerd , but that he would yéelde it vp vppon any composition , as indéede he did . He knew then that there was no barre nor hawlt for the Poales Armie to march from Smalensco , to the City of Mosco . To the increase of these feares hée sawe the citty empty of victualles , and other prouision for the warres . But that which most troubled him , he found his reputation much lessened in the opinion of the Muscouite . While Vansusce stoode thus exercised and perplexed with these feares , sayling betwixt Scilla and Charibdis , in doubt which way to take the Emperour Demetrius , layes hold of the occasion , and once more attempts with this new raised power to recouer his Empire , hée therefore with all spéed aduanceth forward with this great Army , consisting of a hundred thousand men , that in those tumultuous times , either for his loue , or their owne safeties had fled vnto him , there were also ten thousand Poles in his Army that had followed him in his last flight from the Mosco . He hauing thus once more like an Emperour the commaunding of such an Armie , which neuerthelesse was more fearefull for their numbers then in their armes and courage , came before the Citty , fortifying his camp , and planting his Ordonance , which soone beganne to batter . Sigismond King of Poland hauing intelligence hereof takes his aduantage in this diuision and sends Cholcosce his lieutenant generall , hauing lately taken in the fort of Gregory with forty thousand men to beleager the other side of Mosco , there were also fiftéene hundred strangers in his army , English , Scottish , and French , that had put themselues into the King of Poles seruice after their defeature on Midsummerday . Now was this great citty inuironed on all sides , with huge numbers of men of warre , and in short time brought to so great misery in the height of all extreame , that if a man could imagine in such a case the worst of calamity , such was the wretched fortune of this citty , wherein nothing but horror and despaire was found , the canon roring without , women & children crying within , the noise of drums , trumpets , horses , harqnebuses , and the helplesse grones of dying men , made it on earth a hell to the miserable Muscouite . Famine also at length so pincht them that they found these mischiefes to be vnsufferable . Now was Vansusce without heart or hope , fearing daily to bée betrayed by his owne friends , if we may call it treason , to betray a traitor , and his feares prooued true , for many noble men that were about him , looking into the present times condition , and reducing to their mindes the nature of the times past , they found Vansusce to be both the originall and efficient cause of all these miseries , and that God had thus plagued them with the plagues of men , for suffering an vsurper to raigne ouer them , so that at last vpon aduice taken , they tooke Vansusce prisoner sitting in councell among them , with suppose , by deliuering him captiue , to make their peace with Cholcosce , O had the vnkinde and vnstable Muscouite deliuered this vsurper vnto their lawfull Emperour Demetrius that lay on the other side the citie , and had brought him in with their submission and acknowledgement of alegeance , they might haue had the hand of God to haue fought for them , and haply in short time recouered their former peace and glorie . But they doubting his weakenesse , and fearing the strength of the Poles , deliuered vp their prisoner , together with the Citty into the power of Cholcosce , to be kept for the king of Pole. Which in this maner was effected . It was agréed vpon betwéene Cholcosce and the State of Russia , that he should haue deliuered into his hands , the Citty and the Castle to be held with a garrison for Sigismond King of Poland , vnto whom they proffered acknowledgement of homage and fraltie , conditionally , that Cholcosce with his Armie should presently remooue the Leager of the Emperour Demetrius on the other side the riuer . These proffers were accepted of Cholcosce , together with the condition , conditionally that they should deliuer sufficient hostages into his hands sor the safegard of himselfe and his Army , which was graunted , and a many of the Nobilitie chosen out as the great Patriarch of Mosco . KoeIacob Duke of Smalensco , and others of great power , who being deliuered to the Cholcosce , sent them all as pledges to the King of Pole. Thus Cholcosce hauing taken possession of the Citty mariheth through to fight with Demetrius , and in short time ouerthrew him , who fléeing againe to Colloge , found himselfe there also abandoued of all his friends . Thus this vnhappy Prince , fleeing from place to place , finding no place for safetie , was afterward ( as I haue heard it reported ) miserably slaine by a Tartar. Thus Cholcosce returning backe to the Citty in triumphant maner , was solemnely intertained of the Muscouite , who presented him also with many great gifts . He hauing stayed a while in the Cittie , and planted a garrison of eight thousand Poles in the Castle , returned to Smalensco with his prisoner Vansusce and deliuered him to his maister the King of Pole , who not long after sent him into Poland , to be kept prisoner at the Castle of Waringborrough , where he yet liues a miserable captine . Sigismond the yeare following takes in Smalensco vpon assault , and returnes into Poland , disposing the most part of his Armie into garrisons in Russia . But the Muscouite in short time after rebelled , and hauing drawne the Tartare as their Assistants , after a long and bloudie assault , they at the last recouered the Cittie and Castle of Mosco , putting all the Poles to the sword . Thus was the Colloge againe fréed , but not secured from the tyranny of the Poales , who are still possessors of a great part of that Countrey , sometimes losing in one place , oftentimes gaining in an other , neuer resting , but still in action , which the wretched people doe miserably sustaine . And thus ( as I vnderstand ) stands the condition of this torne Empire of Russia at this day . FINIS . 
A34008	----	The present state of Russia in a letter to a friend at London / written by an eminent person residing at the great czars court at Mosco for the space of nine years : illustrated with many copper plates. Collins, Samuel, 1619-1670. 1671 Approx. 177 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 99 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2008-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A34008 Wing C5385 ESTC R17430 12039130 ocm 12039130 52932 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. A34008) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 52932) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 60:5) The present state of Russia in a letter to a friend at London / written by an eminent person residing at the great czars court at Mosco for the space of nine years : illustrated with many copper plates. Collins, Samuel, 1619-1670. [24], [1], 141, [2] p., [5] leaves of plates : ill., port. Printed by John Winter for Dorman Newman ..., London : 1671. Attributed to Samuel Collins. Cf. BM. Reproduction of original in Harvard University Libraries. 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. 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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 Soviet Union -- Description and travel. 2006-07 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2006-07 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2007-06 Robyn Anspach Sampled and proofread 2007-06 Robyn Anspach Text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion KNEAZE ALEXEY MICHAILOVITZ Great Duke of Moscovie Aged XXXIV Yeares . 1664. Cross Sculpsit THE Present State OF RUSSIA , In a Letter to a Friend AT LONDON ; Written by an Eminent Person residing at the Great Czars Court at Mosco for the space of nine years . Illustrated with many Copper Plates . O utinam Ars mores animumque depingere posset , Pulchrior in terris nulla Tabella foret ! LONDON , Printed by John Winter , for Dorman Newman at the Kings Arms in the Poultry , A. D. 1671. To the Reader . READER , THe Author of this subsequent Relation was a Gentleman of large Parts , and had an esteem proportionably amongst those to whom he was willing to impart his Sentiments of things , and those were many , not only in his native Country England , but in France , Italy , Holland , Germany , Flanders , Russia , &c. In which last place he continued nine years in an honourable imploy under that Great Emperour . His Genius led him to be curious and inquisitive , mostly , after those things that were difficult to be attained to ; and perhaps he found the means of gathering these few Papers together , as hard and uneasie as any thing that he endeavoured after in all his Travels . He had the happiness to be a Favourite to the Great Tzar and his Patriarch ( things not usually competible ) and ( it may be ) has made a farther discovery of ●he Russ affairs then any Stranger has been capacita●ed to do before or since . These few Sheets he col●●cted when he was in Mos● , and designed ( since his ●●ming from thence ) to me●odize , and Print them ●●der the Title of The Life 〈◊〉 Ivan Vasiloidg ( part of ●hich I saw : ) But an acute 〈◊〉 unkinde disease put a ●●riod to that and his life : What you here finde was given to one of his Attendants ; who was loath the world should lose the reading of so much truth concerning that Nation ( although it were unfinished , and altogether rough ) I must suppose you will finde many faults , some of the Correctors , and some of the Printers ; and if there be any of the Authors , I hope your candor will pardon his as wel as theirs . Farewell . N. D. THE CONTENTS . CHAP. I. OF the Russians nature in general . Their contempt of Learning . Their Clergy . Liturgy . Churches . Ceremonies in Devotion . Hours of Prayer . The Priests names . Habits . Wives . Baptism . The unnatural death of Apostates , CHAP. II. Of their Marriages . The Clerks ceremony towards the Bride . Her manner of conduct . The Epithalimum sung by Boys and Girls . The old Womans advice to the Bridefolk . The Bridal Room . The Bridegrooms boots pull'd off by the Bride . Their severe Discipline to their Wives censured . No process in Law against it . The Parents contract with their Daughters Husbands . Witchcraft used at Weddings , Abstinence from Venery . The penalty for marrying a second or third Wife . The Emperours second Son. The manner of the Emperours electing a Wife . His disappointment how punished . His Sallary to the wronged Virgin. The Queens Relations . Of the Czaroidg not seen publickly till Fifteen . Of the Russian Children . When and how weaned . Of their Fasts and Pennances . CHAP. III , Of the Patriarch in general . He is supreme head of the Church . Of his Pallace . The Ceremony of Palm-Sunday . His Mitre . Of the Russian Bells . The Patriarchs Present to the Emperour . His Action on Good Friday . His charge to the People . The Story of a Countrey Fellow . Their salutation on Easter Day . The Patriarchs Presents to the Czars Servants and Nobility . Their entertainments . The Ladies Complements one to another . CHAP. IV. Of their Burials . The women are obliged to mourn . Their Dirges . The Ceremony used to the dead . Those that are kill'd or frozen to death , buried at Mid-sommer . Of their Carnaval and excessive drinking . The sad consequence thereof . CHAP. V. Of their Imagery . Pictures exchanged in the God-market , saved in Conflagrations ; they highly prize them , bestow Jewels on them . The punishment of a Woman who stole her pearl from an Image , though in case of necessity . Heresie punished . Of their Friars and Nuns . CHAP. VI. The Tragical Relation of a Monkey . His several tricks . How he threw down the Images , and scar'd the Priest . His apprehension , and final condemnation . The Authors Reflections . CHAP. VII . Of their Musick . A story of one of their Embassadors . Beggars in Russia beg in Tunes . Their Drums , Trumpets and Hunting-horns . CHAP. VIII . Of their nuptial proceedings , soon consummated . They act by Brokers . The mans friends see the Bride naked . How a young fellow was cheated . The punishment of those Women who kill their Husbands . CHAP. IX . A merry story of a great Fish , which the Friars took to be a Devil . The contrary being discover'd , they are asham'd , and make an Entertainment . Another story of a Fish , but more Tragical . What ensued upon it . CHAP. X. Of the Chircasses . Their Religion , Complexion , Drinking , Dancing , Government , Souldiery and Witchcraft . CHAP. XI . Of the Russian Government . Laws . Manner of writing . Their Clerks how called . Their Characters whence borrow'd . Their Petitions . His Imperial Majesties person and character compar'd with his Fathers . The Empire miserably impoverished and depopulated by the Tartarian Invasions . CHAP. XII . The Emperours rise . His Ancestors but Dukes of Volodimir . His Pallace how call'd . Of Juan Vasilowidg , and his divers odd humours , his Petition to one of his Diacks . His Conquests . How he was loved . How he fined Vologda . How he served the women that laughed at him . Of the Vayods mistake . Another Vayod how punished for taking a Goose . Juan a great lover of Queen Elizabeth . How he serv'd the French Embassador . How Sir Jerom Boze came off . A Shoomaker presented the Emperour with a Turnep , how rewarded . What the Emperour did with the Turnep . How a poor man entertained him . His associating with Thieves . How he was served by one of them , and how he preferr'd him . CHAP. XIII . Of the present Emperour or great Czar . Czar from whence derived . His Titles and Arms. He marries not out of his own Dominions . His Diet. Lodging . Recreations . Visits . The Czaro●dges Birth . CHAP. XIV . Of the Emperours Revenues , great Priviledges , Trading , Provision , Traffick , allowance to his Houshold . Of his Pallace , high Tower. Of his Boyars . Of the Monasteries and Nunneries . Officers of State. The Czars temperance . Of his entertaining the Nobility . A story of General Leshly . CHAP. XV. Of the City of Mosco . Of the Czars Jewels . Of his Clothes , Of the Queen and her maids of honours attire . Their journeys in Waggons . How they rode formerly . The mode and language of the Russes all one . They differ in their actions from all other Nations . Of their Clock Dyals , and contrariety to other people in several things . And of other Customs they have CHAP. XVI . Of their Judiciary proceedings . Of murther how punish'd ; the accused must confess the fact . Of their Executioner and cruel Torments . The punishment of Coyners . A Fellow that shot at a Jack-daw how punish'd . Conspirators banished into Syberia , &c. Hanging lately used amongst them , and how . CHAP. XVII . Of Syberia and its Inhabitants . Chay and Bour Dian brought from thence , their qualities . Tambul the Metropolis of Syberia . A discourse of Sables , how kill'd . The excessive coldness of this Countrey . How they feed their Cows . Of the River Ob. What Caviare is made of . Of Samogeda , their Dyet . Sledges how drawn . Hunting . Indistinct habit . Of their manners . And oother remarkable observations concerning these Northernlings in general . CHAP. XVIII Of the Southern parts of Syberia . The Wilderness called Step , full of Cherry-trees and fine Flowers . Of Elks. Of the Koorick and Perivoshick . The Countrey of Squirrels . Of a little Bird like a Woodcock , Another like a Hawk . A third as big as a Swan . The story of the Vegitable Lamb refuted . CHAP. XI A brief account of Tartary . It 's Metropolis . To whom the Tartars pay Tribute , The Muscovite formerly tributary to the Crim-Tartar . How far they march in a day . They eat horse-flesh , but no bread nor salt , the reason why . They are very quick-sighted , excellent horse-men . Of the Colmack Tartars . The Crim's describ'd they deride the Russian worship . The grounds why they do it . CHAP. XX. What the simpler sort of Russians are their Idolatry and ignorance , what they think of St. Nicholas , their high conceit of good works . They are great Rogues . Some are good among them . The Poles are not so barbarous as the Russes . The Poles characteriz'd , their Laws ; their King how stiled , he is very magnificent . King Henry weary of the title . How he made shift to get away out of Poland . CHAP. XXI . Of Lues Venerea . Of the Polonian Plica , a familiar distemper , and very infectious , yet they highly esteem it . When hair first began to be powdred . The Poles more honourable in keeping Articles than the Russes . A comparison of the Polish and Russian Languages . Their salutations are stately . How the Tartars and Chircasses salute . The Chircasses Religion . CHAP. XXII Of the Present Czar his Father . Grave Wolmer how disappointed in Marriage . Czar Michaels death . The story of Boris Juanoidg . How the Czar elects a Wife . Whom Boris preferr'd . His height makes him envied . Eliah exalted . The Russians extol Marriage . Eliah disabled . Who succeeds him . Nashokin a great Reformer . Highly commended , His words concerning the French and Danes supporting the Hollanders against England . He is a great lover of the English . How he censured a Bill of Mortality , and some other discourse which he held . CHAP. XXIII . The Czars description . His answer to a Stranger . How he appears in publick . He never visits any Subject . His Court without noise . He seldom dines publickly . At Easter his Subjects kiss his hand . How he pays his Strelsies . What he has done to employ the poor . The Czaritza governs the Women . From whence the Emperour 's chief Revenues proceed , CHAP. XXIV . The Czar goes every year to a house of pleasure call'd Obrasawsky . Of the curious tents erected there . How cautious the Emperour is of letting the vulgar sort behold his pastimes . This commended for several reasons . None are to petition the Czar in the fields . What hapned to a poor Russian Captain for so doing . The Emperours resentment for his death . Peter Solticove turn'd out of Office , and banished the Court ; the cause why . Nashockin put in his place . The Czar in the night time visits his Chancellors desks . He has Spyes in every corner . 'T is death to reveal any thing spoken in the Court. The Russians answer to inquisitive persons . The Czars children how attended ; they are bound to keep secrecie . CHAP. XXV . The story of a Jew turn'd Mahometan , he falsly accuses Nashockin , and is lash'd for his pains . Jews how crept into the Court. A Discourse of Bogdan Matfeidg ( the Czars great Favourite ) his Pandor and Amours . His Ladies jealousie , how she was made away . The Czar reproves him . He and Nashockin no good friends . Of the Czars Religion , vvherein he is very zealous and constant . He fasts at several times eight months in a year , disposes of all Ecclesiastical Preferments . His high commendation . CHAP. XXVI . Trading in Russia very low . English Cloth a drug , why slighted . The Authors Reflection . If Persians trade there , what English are like to suffer . What the Russians are in general . Concerning the Dutch , what the English must do to out-vye them . How much they abuse us to the Emperour . 'T were convenient for England to undeceive the Czar . How things should be represented to Nashockin and Bogdan . The Russians mightily pleased with their peace with Poland . CHAP. XXVII . Of Caviare , how and where made . The length of the Fish Belluga . Caviare of two sorts . The Belluga swallows abundance of Pebbles ; it is an excellent meat . Isinglass is made of his Sounds . CHAP. X●X●●● Of several sorts of Mushrooms which grow in Russia , their forms and qualities , they are divided by Botanists into two kinds , viz. Lethales and Salutiferae . A SURVEY Of the present State of RUSSIA , CHAP. I. Of the Russians nature in general , their contempt of Learning , their Clergy , Liturgy , Churches , Ceremonies in Devotion , hours of Prayer , the Priests names , Habit , Wives , Baptism : The unnatural death of Apostates . AS for the Situtaion of Russia ; it is so well known , that it would be a needless labour for me to set it down ; my design at present is to Survey ●●e Religion and Manners of the Inhabitants . And to this purpose , I have made a slender Essay , the truth whereof , I hope , will excuse the plainness of the dress ; the stuff is course , and the thread not fine ▪ but the matter I conceive will be both pleasant and profitable . Having had therefore fair opportunities , and good intelligence , I am the more willing to give you an account of this Empire . Indeed , hitherto no man of parts or abilities has been suffered to travel the Country . For the people are very jealous , and suspect those who ask them any questions concerning their Policy , or Religion , they being wholly devoted to their own Ignorance , and Education ; ( which is altogether illiterate , and rude , both in Civil and Ecclesiastical Affairs ) look upon Learning as a Monster , and fear it no less than a Ship of Wildfire ; and thus they verifie the old Saying , Ars nullum habet inimicum praeter ignorantem . In the year of our Lord , 1560. the Art of Printing was brought in amongst them ( as Thevet relates in the life of Basil ) and a Latin School also was erected , but the Tribe of Levi soon destroyed it , Vi & Armis . I shall therefore commence my discourse with them , who are not set apart for this Function , as in other Nations , but any Lay-man of a good life and conversation may take upon him the Priesthood . This Nation received the Christian Faith about six hundred years since , from a certain Priest of Chioff , who is said to cure one of the Dukes of Musco by prayer , upon which Miracle he and all his people were baptized . They borrow their Liturgy from the Greek Church , which is written in the Sclavonian Language , and used in their devotion with as much knowledge , as the Latin amongst the Papists . They follow the Greeks , though lamely , in the Architecture of their Churches , whose chief ornaments are Images , adorned with rich Stones and Pearls , wherein they admit no Sculpture but only painting ; for they look upon the Romish Statue-worship as Idolatry . They kneel not in their devotions , but lie prostrate ▪ and upon some great Vigils they stay all night in their Churches , at certain times prostrating and crossing themselves , and knocking their heads against the Ground . At certain Intervals they discourse of business , and most commonly the Emperor dispatches the Affairs in the time of their Service , where he is attended with all his Nobility ; and if he miss any , he makes inquiry after them . At Whitsontide they fall prostrate upon Sycamore branches ( our Maple , which they call Sycamore with us , but falsely ) wherewith their Churches are strew'd , upon a fond perswasion that the holy Ghost descends upon these leaves , as Manna upon Oake-leaves . They have no Instrumental Musick , for the last Patriarch abrogated it , because the Papists used it . In their Prayers , three hours after Sun-rising , they call Obedny , at Sun-set Vecherney ; about one a clock in the morning , Zaoutrinys . Miserere mei Domine ( which they call Hospody p●mele ) they repeat an hundred times ; and that Priest is counted the best fellow that can mumble most in a breath . You shall have five or six reading confusedly together , one a Chapter , another a Psalm , a third a Prayer , &c. A Parish-Priest they call a Pope ; as Pope Petro , Pope Iuan ; a Bishop Metropolite ; a chief Pope Protopope . The Popes go most commonly in Purple , some in Green , others as they fancy , only distinguish'd with two flaps on both sides their breast , and a purple Scul-cap to cover their shaven crowns . They never cut the hairs of their heads or beards ; a thing not observed by any other Clergy in the world . A Pope must be a married man , and the Husband but of one Wife ; grounded on that Text , a Bishop must be the Husband of one Wife . Hereby it appears , the Popes Priesthood is wrapped up in his Wives Smock ; for when she dies he must officiate no longer , which makes them indulge their Wives more then ordinary for their Office sake . They marry young , that they may come early into a livelihood , their Wives are also distinguish'd from others by a flap on each side their breast . Their Baptism differs not from the Romish , but only in dipping all over . He that takes up the Russian Faith , be he Lutheran or Papist , must first renounce his former Baptism , curse Father and Mother , and spit thrice over his shoulder . It was a custom to hire Strangers to christen the Russians , but now they are grown wiser than to buy souls at that rate . 'T is observed by some old Standers here , that of two hundred English , Scotch and Dutch , who have renounced their Religion , few , or none , have died a natural death . CHAP. II. Of their Marriages ; the Clerks ceremony towards the Bride , her manner of conduct , the Epithalamium sung by Boys and Girls ; the old Womans advice to the Bride-folk ; the Bridal Room ; the Bride-Grooms Boots pull'd off by the Bride ; their severe Discipline to their Wives censured ; no process in Law against it ; the Parents contract with their Daughters Husbands ; Witchcraft used at Weddings ; abstinence from Venery ; the penalty for marrying a second or third Wife ; the Emperors second Son ; the manner of the Emperors electing a Wife ; his disappointment how punished ; his Salary to the wronged Virgin ; the Queens Relations ; of the Czaroidg not seen publickly till Fifteen ; of the Russian Children ; when and how weaned ; of their Fasts and Pennances . THeir Marriages are not very solemn ; a few attend the Bride about three a clock in the afternoon , and at their coming out of the Church , the Pannama , or Clerk , strews Hops upon the Bride , and wishes her children as thick as Hops ; another with a Sheep-skin coat turn'd outward meets her , and prays she may have as many children as there are hairs on his coat . The Bridegroom is led home by young Fellows , and the Bride ( being cover'd all over ) by an old Woman , and the Pope marches before with his Cross . They sit a while down at Table with Bread and Salt before them , but eat nothing ; In the mean time a Quire of Boys and Girls standing aloft , sing Epithalamiums , or nuptial Songs , so bedawb'd with scum of bawdry and obscenity , that it would make Aretines ears glow to hear them . After this they are conducted by the Pope and Old-women to a Room , where she advises the Bride to be debonair and buxom , and exhorts the Bridegroom to bestow due benevolence , and here they are shut up for two hours ; the old Woman in the interim attends for the tokens of Virginity , which having gotten , she goes triumphantly , and demands Albricias of the Parents , first tying up the Brides hair which before hung over her ears . The married couple must have no earth over their heads ( a Ceremony strictly observed , as if mortality then ought not to be the object of their meditations ) for you must know all warm Rooms are covered with earth half a yard thick to keep in the heat . The Bridegroom has a Whip in one Boot , and a Jewel or some Money in the other , he bids the Bride pull them off , if she happens upon the Jewel , he counts her lucky , and bestows it upon her ; but if she lights upon the Boot with the Whip in it , she is reckon'd amongst the unfortunate , and gets a Bride-lash for her pains , which is but the earnest-penny of her future entertainment . The Russians discipline to their Wives is very rigid and severe , more inhumane in times past then at present . Yet three or four years ago a Merchant beat his Wife as long as he was able , with a Whip two inches about , and then caused to put on a Smock dipt in Brandy three or four times distilled , which he set on fire , and so the poor creature perished miserably in the flames : Certainly this person was a Monster , not a Man , born of a Tygress , not a Woman , and in no wise deserved the Epithete of good or wise . For the Heathens themselves condemn such unchristian ●illany . Hom. II. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . And yet what is more strange , none prosecuted her death ; for in this case they have no penal Law for killing of a Wife or Slave , if it happen upon correction ; but it is a strange chastisement to kill , seeing the design hereof was never intended to end people , but to mend them . Some of these Barbarians will tye up their Wives by the hair of the head , and whip them stark naked . But this severity is not commonly used , unless it be for Adultery or Drunkenness : And I perceive it begins to be left off , or at least the Parents endeavour to prevent it , by their cautious contracting their Daughters ; For in their Joyntures they oblige their Husbands to find them with clothes suitable to their quality , to feed them with good wholsom meat and drink , to use them kindly without whipping , striking or kicking them , many more terms and tautologies they use ; not unlike the Common Laws of England . Upon Forfeiture they put this in execution , which is determin'd in one Court , but not without bribery , as all other Suites are . I wish the English had more of the former ( I mean their expedition ) and less of the latter , viz. their corruption . Seldom a Wedding passes without some Witch-craft ( if people of quality marry ) chiefly acted as 't is thought by Nuns , whose prime devotion tends that way . I saw a fellow coming out of the Bride-chamber , tearing his hair as though he had been mad , and being demanded the reason why he did so , he cry'd out : I am un●one : I am bewitch'd : The remedy they use , is to address themselves to a white Witch , who for money will un●avel the Charm , and untie the Cod-piece-point , which was this young mans ●ase ; it seems some old Woman had ●yed up his Codpiece-point . The Ec●lesiastical Law commands their absti●ence from Venery three days a week , viz. Monday , Wednesday , Friday . After ●oition they must bath before they enter ●he Church . A man that marries a second Wife is debar'd the Church , but ●ot the Church-porch : If a third the Communion : If a man thinks his Wi●e ●arren he will perswade her to turn Nun , that he may try another ; if she refuses he will Cudgel her into a Monastery . ●f the Empress had not brought a second Czaroidg or Prince , born June 2d . 1661. after four Girls together , 't is thought she would have been sent to her Devotions . His Imperial Majesty intending to marry , had divers young Ladies brought before him , at last he liked one ( which they say is very beautiful still ) but his chief Confessor had a mind to perswade him to another , who had an younger Sister , so when this fair Lady was brought , they found his Majesties inclinations so strong for her , as they fear'd she would get the Crown , and indeed so she did ; it being a Ceremony , upon his liking , to tye the Crown upon her head , but the plot was so laid , that the Women should tye up her hair so hard as to put her into a Swoon , which they did , crying out she had the Falling-sickness : Upon this her Father was accused of Treason for proposing his Daughter , whip't , and sent with disgrace into Syberia , where he died . The Maid remain● still a Virgin , and never had any fit since The Emperor being conscious of the wrong : he had done her , allows her a very great Pension . The King's Father in Law , Eliah the Son of Daniel , dares not say the Empress is his Daughter , nor dare any of her Kindred own themselves to be so ; non dare Iuan Paoloidg Martischca say he is his Uncle . None are suffer'd to see the Czaroidg ▪ but at fifteen years old he is exposed to publick view , though not seen by any before , but his chief Tutor , and some Family-Servants : only Relations may see young children among the Russians , for they will seldom permit any Strangers to look upon them , for fear they should cast some ill aspect upon them . Their Children are commonly strong and hardy , they give them suck not above a month or two at the most ; after which they feed them with an Horn , or Silver Cup made Horn-wise , with a dryed Cows-dug tied to the small end , through which they suck . At two years old they observe their Fasts , which are severe : They have four in a year , and in Lent , upon Wednesdayes , Fridays and Saturdaies , they eat no Fish , but feed on Cabbage and Cucumbers , and course Rye bread , and drink Caenasse , which is a Liquor one degree below our small Beer . They will not drink after a man that eats Flesh . If a Medicine has Cor. cervi , ungul . Al. or pil . lepor . in it , they will not take it , though to save their lives , so precise are they in observing their Fasts : Their Pennance commonly is so many bowings , and knocking 's of their heads before an Image , and sometimes to eat nothing but Bread and Salt and Cucumbers , and to drink Water for a season . That which is Pogano ( or unclean ) may not be eaten at any time ; as Horse-flesh , Mares-milk , Asses-milk , Hares , Squirrels , Coneys , Elks : Theriaca or Treacle , is Pogano , because it has Vipers flesh in it . Castorium , Musk and Civet are not to be used internally amongst them . Sugar-Candy , and Loaf-Sugar are Scarumna , or prohibited in Fasting-dayes ; a Knife that has cut Flesh is Scarumna for a Sootky , or twenty four hours . 'T is good policy , as it happens , that they are so strict , else the Flesh in the Country would soon be destroyed ; For the Russian Boors being perfect Slaves , are careless of more than what serves from hand to mouth ; and as for the surplus , the Lord or his Steward takes it away . CHAP. III. Of the Patriarch in general , he is supreme Head of the Church : Of his Pallace : The Ceremony of Palm-Sunday : His Mitre : Of the Russian Bells : The Patriarchs present to the Emperour : His Action on Good-Friday : His charge to the People : The Story of a Countrey-Fellow : Their salutation on Easter Day : The Patriarchs Presents to the Czar's Servants and Nobility : Their entertainments : The Ladies Complements to one another . THe Patriarch is supream Head in all Church-Affairs , highly honoured by his Majesty : But upon some pett he retired himself to his Countrey-house about two years ago : Some say he began to innovate certain things , or rather reform them ; for he is no lover of Images , to which the Russes are grosly devoted . The See continues vacant , and they cannot chuse another in his place . His Pallace joyns to the Emperours , built of Stone , and stately enough for its bigness ; his place is supplied by a Metropolite in the Ceremony of Palm-Sunday : After this manner . depiction of building. On Good Friday the Patriarch goes into an Hole in the Church , and there he stands to bless the People , and gives them this charge . Go your way , neither eat nor drink for three daies space ; at night he lies prostrate , and prays till Easter day . This Hand sheweth how the Russ ought to set their Fingers when they Cross themselves . This Hand sheweth how the Russ Priests ought to set their Fingers when they Bless or Cross the People . Their greatest expression of joy upon Festivals is drinking , and the greater the day is , the greater are their debauches . To see Men , Women , and Popes reeling in the streets is counted no dishonour . After a very great Entertainment or Poctivat among the grand Ladies , the Lady of the Feast sends her chief Gentleman the next day with an Howd'ye to her Guests , to enquire of their health , and if they got well home , or slept well . The Lady answers : I thank thy Lady for her good cheer , which made me so Merry , [ pian-drunk , ] that indeed I know not how I got home ! A fine commendation indeed for her Ladiship . The Mother many times gives her Child a Love-name , by which he is called : As Almaus my Diamond : The Diack of Prosolsky Precaus , is called Boris Iuano●dg ; but his right name is Eliah Iuano●dg . CHAP. IV. Of their Burials : The Women are obliged to mourn : Their Dirges . The Ceremony used to the dead : Those that are kill'd or frozen to death , buried at Midsommer : Of their Carnaval and excessive drinking : The sad consequence thereof . THeir Burials are strange , as soon as the breath is out of the body ( as we commonly express it ) they carry the Corps into the Church , where it abides not long before it be buried in the Church-yard . The Wife of the deceased is obliged to howl most pitifully , and hire others to do the like , but little reason have they to do it , considering their severe usage ; but custom , not love , may possibly incite them to do it : Ut fleren● oculos erudiere suos , is Ovid's genera● observation on the whole Sex. The Russians count that the greatest Funeral where are most Women-mourners ; such were the Praeficae among the old Romans . These therefore in a doleful tone cry out ( as the wild Irish do , O hone ) Timminny Dooshinca ; Alas my Dear , why hast thou left me , was I not obedient to to thee in all things ? was I not careful of thy House ? did I not bring thee fine Children ? hadst thou not all things in abundance ? Or thus ; Why wouldst thou die ? hadst thou not a fair Wife , pretty Children , much Goods , good Clothes , and Brandy-wine enough ? As soon as any one is dead they open the windows , and set a Bason of holy Water for the Soul to bath in , and a Bowl of Wheat at the head of the Corps , that he may eat , having a long Journey to go . After this they put on his feet a pair of black-shoes , and some Copeakes , or pieces of money in his Mouth , with a Certificate in his hand ( from the Metropolite of the place ) to St. Nicholas , of his life and conversation . If any one dies without Confession and Extreme-Unction , he is denied Christian burial . Such as are kill'd or frozen to death , are brought into the Zemzky precaus , an Office for that , and many other trials , and there they are exposed to view three or four dayes ; if any own them they are carried away , if not they are sent to the Bosky or Boghzi Dome ( i.e. God's House ) which is a great pit in the fields arched over , wherein they put an hundred or two hundred , and let them rest till Midsummer , and then the Popes go and bury them , and cover them with earth . Thirty daies after burial , they read the Psalter over daily upon the Grave , having a little Booth made up of Mats to shelter them from the weather , but what their meaning is in this , I cannot understand . In the Carnaval before Quadragessima , or Lent , they give themselves over to all manner of debauchery and luxury , and in the last week they drink as if they were never to drink more . Some drink Aqua-vitae four times distill'd , until it fire in their mouths , and kindle a flame not unlike that of Bocca di inferno , which issues out at their throat ; if they have not milk given them to drink , they presently die . Much wiser in my judgment are our English Bully-rocks , who love to keep fire at its due distance , no less then a Pipes length off their Noses . These drinking bouts are commonly attended with quarrels , fightings and murthers . This custom the Jovial Poet look'd upon no less then barbarous : Inter potandum pugnare Thracum est , barbarum tollite morem , verecundumque rixis prohibete Bacchum . Some of these going home drunk , if not attended with a sober companion , fall asleep upon the Snow ( a sad cold bed ) and there they are frozen to death . If any of their acquaintance chance to pass by , though they see them like to perish , yet will they not assist them , to avoid the trouble of examination if they should die in their hands : For those of the Zemsky precaus will extort something out of every bodies purse , who comes to their Office . 'T is a sad sight to see a dozen people brought upright in a Sledge frozen to death , some have their arms eaten off by Dogs , others their faces , and others have nothing left but Bones : Two or three hundred have been brought after this manner in the time of Lent. By this you may see the sad consequence of drunkenness , the Epidemick distemper not only of Russia , but of England also . CHAP. V. Of their Imagery : Pictures exchanged in the God market , saved in Constagrations ; they highly prize them , bestow Jewels on them : The punishment of a Woman who stoll her pearl from an Image , though in case of necessity . Heresie punished ▪ Of their Friars and Nuns . THeir Imagery is very pitiful painting , flat and ugly , after the Greek manner ; I asking why they made their God's so deformed , they answered me , they were not proud . When a Picture is worn out , they bring it into the God-market , where laying it down , they chuse out a new one , and deposite money for the exchange ( for they must not be said to buy it ) if the money be not enough the God-maker shoves it back , and then the Devoto adds more , till the other be satisfied . An obliterate Image they put into the River , and crossing themselves , bid it Prosti , i. e. Farewell Brother . And if any of their Brethren meets with Jove , he turns into Neptune , and they crossing themselves , cry , Prosty Bradt , God be with you Brother . In time of fire they strive above all things to save their Images : but if they escape not the Conflagration they must not be said to be burnt , but gone up . If a Church be burn'd , they say it is ascended , they must not say burn'd . These are their pretty ridiculous distinctions , 't is wonder they do not , with Anaxagoras , affirm Snow to be black . Sometimes they will hold their Gods to the fire , trusting they can help them , if they will. A Fellow thinking to have staid the fire by that means , held his Micola so long , that he had like to have been burnt himself , and seeing he did him no good , he threw him into the midst of the fire , with this curse . Noo Chart. i. e. The Devil take thee . They bestow Jewels upon them of a great value . This year a Woman , who had formerly adorn'd her Micola with some Pearl , being necessitated , came to the Church , and pray'd Micola to lend her some of his Jewels , for she was at present in great want , the dumb brute not speaking any thing to the contrary , she ( thinking silence gave consent ) made bold to take a Ruby or two off him : but the Pope spying her , complains to the Justice , who commanded both her hands to be cut off , which was done three months since . In their private houses they do ordinarily give and take , as they thrive in their business ; for if they have any great losses , they will come home and rob Micola to his shirt . Herosie among the Russes is punished with fire . The Heretick goes up to the top of a little house , and so jumps in , and upon him they throw straw and Luchines , which are dry splinters of Fir-wood , these being fir'd soon soffocate him . Satis superque severa est hac animadversio . The Fryars and Nuns are not so strict as in the Roman Church . The Fryars are great Traders in Malt , Hops , all sort of Corn , Horses , Cattle , and whatsoever else may but enrich them . The Nuns go abroad , some begging , others visiting the great Ladies , where they get a Fox before they return home . These are fine Votaresses indeed ▪ CHAP. VI. The Tragical Relation of a Monkey . His several tricks . How he threw down the Images , and scar'd the Priest . His apprehension , and final condemnation . The Authors Reflections . NOw that I am discoursing of the Russian Church , it will not be amiss to relate a sad Tragical story , which was acted in the time of our English Resident , who it seems had a Monkey famous amongst the Muscovites to this day , for he would take money in his mouth , and go into the Market , and shew it to the Costard-mongers , who in kindness would give him Nuts and Apples ; many such apish pranks he was wont to play . But we come now to the Catastrophe of his mirth . Being not content to act a merry part in Foro , he begins lu dere cum Sacris , and goes into a Church hard by the English House , where he crept in and tumbled down their Gods. The Priest amaz'd to see what was done , crosses himself a thousand times , and sets their God-ships in their places again , exorcises the foul Fiend , taking his Horse-tail dipt in holy water , he dashes the doors and windows , that this Devil might not re-enter . But for all this , one morning early Pug came in at a window , and began with St. Nicholas and the rest of the Gods and Goddesses in order , as they stood in his way ; down he throws Dagon and the wares of Rimnon as zealously as if he had been bred up in new England , and ever and anon he grinn'd in the Popes face , who standing arm'd with a Cross and holy Water , therewith besprinkled Pug , who ( hating it as bad as the Devil , ) fled home . Presently the Pope goes to the Patriarch , and complains most bitterly against a Nincheen ( or Stranger ) living in the English house , for throwing down many of their Gods , breaking their Lamps , pulling off their Jewels and Chains of Pearl wherewith they were adorn'd and lastly for prophaning the holy place . Hereupon an order was sent to search and examine the Embassadors house ; all his Retinue was brought forth . No , it was none of them , but a little Ninicheen ; so the young children were brought out , and by chance the Monkey came jumping in with the Children : O that is the Nincheen , quoth the Pope , apprehend him , which was done accordingly , and the Patriarch finding out the folly , was asham'd , and sent away the Priest with disgrace for a Fool. But however , poor Pug ( to pacifie the angry Gods ) was deliver'd over to the secular power , who chastisd him so severely that he dyed upon it . Now Chronology would be enquir'd into , Whether Ben Johnsons Zeal of the Land , or Countrey man of Banbury , who in a Fanatick fury destroy'd the Ginger-bread-Idols in Bartholomew Fair , for which he suffer'd persecution , and was put into the stocks : Or this American Reformer , who threw down the Russian Ginger-bread ( for if you saw their Images , you would take them for no better than guilded Ginger-bread ) I say whether of these two is the Proto-Monkey , Martyr , and ought to have precedency in their Canonization . But I leave the determination of this nicety to those who are profess'd Criticks , and well vers'd in Controversie . This special piece of the Russian Church-History was forgotten to be inserted in its right place , and therefore is set down here by way of Corollary . I pretend not to be an exact Historian , or Methodist , and so must beg my Readers pardon . However I relate the truth as it comes to my memory . CHAP. VII . Of thheir Musick . A story of one of their Embassadors . Beggars in Russia beg in Tunes . Their Drums Trumpets and Hunting-horns . BEfore you go out of this holy Church ( which I never desir'd to enter ) pray be pleased to hear some of the Russian Musick : Ever since Orpheus his time these Beasts have delighted therein . If you you have heard the Musick of the Sphears Pray stay and hear the Musick of the Bears . Which do at pleasure force both smiles and tears . They modulate so sweet you would admire um , Their piping's just as if Pan did inspire um , And for the Harp They 'r Asini ad Lyram . The Swedes call the Russes Bears , or Ursae septentrionales . By the way suffer me to tell you a story of Eliah when he was Embassador in Holland . This man being treated with all Dainties both of Flesh and Fish , said , he had rather have a piece of Paultusse , or Turbet half salted , which begets such an Hogo as best suits a Russian pa●●at , but strong enough to destroy a whole Guild of squeasy stomach'd Cockneys . The Hollanders willing to gratifie his ears with the best Musick in all Holland , both Vocal and Instrumental , asked him how he liked it , to which he replied ; very well , for the Beggars use to beg in such Tunes in Russia . What tunes they were I know not . But all the Beggars here beg singing , as well Prisoners as Cripples , and a strenuous voice looseth nothing by its harsh notes . For the Russians love nothing soft or smooth but their womens fat sides . But I come to their Musick , least I should tyre you with tuning it . You must know they have Musick-Schools , where Children are brought up with great diligence , and in much severity . Their notes are very strange , borrowed , I suppose , of the Greeks , or Sclavonians . Their Gamut has small variety ; instead of Fa , sol , la , they sing Ga , ga , ge , warbling them out , as if they were indeed either gag'd or throttled . Their Cadences and Closes are so unexpected , that they seem frighted into them , as our Fidlers are when a Constable comes in the midst of a Lesson . Sometimes they will run hard upon a scent , as though they meant to imitate the Italian Recitative Musick . Finally , when they have brought up these children to a perfection , what with Bases , Tenors , Contratenors , and Trebles , you shall hear as good a Consort , as ever was sung a at Cats Vespers . They have but little Instrumental Musick , it being prohibited by the Patriarch in opposition to the Romish Church . And it has also been thought State policy to forbid all Musick or Jollity among the Commons , to prevent Effeminacy . They have Bagpipes , and small Fiddles with bellies like Lutes , wherewith they play four or five notes . As for their Warlike Musick they have Kettle Drums , whose dull sound does well agree with the Russian Saturnine Genius . And the Trumpet , which I think has not been long used , for they can hardly blow it so well as a Sow-Gelder does his Horn. In their hunting they use brass Bugles , which altogether make an hideous noise . In short , if you would please a Russian with Musick , Get a consort of Billings-gate Nightingales , which joyn'd with a flight of screech Owls , a nest of Jackdaws , a pack of hungry Wolves , seven Hogs in a win●y day , and as many Cats with their Corrivals , and let them sing Lacrymae , and that will ravish a pair of Russian ●uggs , better than all the Musick in Ita●● , light Ayres in France , Marches of England , or the Gigs of Scotland . They are great strangers to Dancing , as esteeming it beneath their Gravity . Sometimes in their wine they will cause their Slaves , both Tartars and Polacks , to dance after their way , which is as rude as our Trenchmore . This I had prick't down by one of the Patriarchs Choristers , being Anthems of the several times of Prayer , viz. Morning , Evening , and Midnight . 1. Obedni Anthem . Deliver me , O Lord of thy abundant mercy . For thy mercy sake cleanse me of my sins ; O Lord my Saviour . 2. Tzaoutrinys . We trust in Christ our Saviour : and our hope is in him . Hallelujah , &c. 3. Vecherny . Lord hear my prayer ; And hear me when I call : And let my cry come unto thee . CHAP. VIII . Of their nuptial proceedings , soon consummated . They act by Brokers . The mans friends see the Bride naked . How a young fellow was cheated . The punishment of those Women who kill their Husbands . THeir way of proceeding in their Marriages puts me in mind of Terence , where the Father abruptly tells his Son he must be married . Uxor tibi ducenda est Pamphile hodie praeter●ens modo apud forum . They give their children but short warning , and they must not refuse the Parents choice ; nor their Lords neither : For example , at this time Boris Juanoidg Morosof , the second man in the Empire propounds one of his Retainers in marriage to a rich Widow of Dutch extract , but Rebaptiz'd into the Russian Faith. The Widow falls down at Boris Juanoidges Ladies feet , Sister to the press , and intreats her to interceed for her to her Lord , for she was minded to remain a Widow during life . No request would be granted : What , said she , wilt thou Bischest , i.e. dishonour my Lord so far as to refuse that man , to whom my Lord has given his word that he shall marry thee . A great disgrace it is to offer the least affront or denial to that which may tend to the breach of my great Lords word . They do most by Brokers , , and the Young-man seldom sees his Wife till they come into the brides Chamber ; if she be ugly she pays for it soundly , it may be the first time he sees her . To prevent future mistakes , the Bridegrooms Friends , viz. five or six Women see the Bride stark naked , and observe whether she has any defect in her Body , if but the least Pimple appear , she must be cured of it before she marries . One at Vologda intending to marry his Daughter , employ'd a Broker to a young man , who would not have her till he had seen her : Hereupon it was ordered she should pass through such a Street at Noon-day , the fellow was placed in an house , and was to see her through an hole ; now the wench ( you must know ) had but one eye , and he was set on the right side , where she appear'd handsome , and passed for currant ; so the Indentures were drawn , and Sureties given that he should not beat , but how they were kept , I have not yet learned . A Woman that kills her Husband is buri'd alive , put into the ground up to the neck , and there suffer'd to die , which is soon done in Winter . Here the crime and the punishment are well accommodated : For it is fit she should die without mercy , who had no bowels nor affection left for her Husband . CHAP. IX . A merry story of a great Fish , which the Friars took to be a Devil . The contrary being discover'd , they are asham'd , and make an Entertainment . Another story of a Fish , but more Tragical . What ensued upon it . BEfore I leave the Church-men , I must tell you a merry story of the Monastery of Rostone , which stands upon a Lake , and not far from this Friar● there is a Nunnery also , for commonly they are near together . In this Lake , about twenty years since , a Fish was seen of such a magnitude , that they supposed it could not be a Fish , but rather some spectrum , Leviathan , or Water-Devil . It would often appear half above water , which made an Eagle stoop at it with such violence , that piercing his Talons into the Flesh , he could not pull them out again ; but Leviathan plunging to the bottom with his enemy , carried him into an unknown element , and so overcame him , but could not be so rid of him , for his Talons still stuck fast , which made him repair to the shore , where being seen by the Friars with feathers on his back , he confirm'd their Fears ; and therefore to prevent further mischief , they fell a ringing the Bells , went on procession with all the instruments and weapons of defence , wherewith these Friars-militant wont to resist the foul Fiend , but all this did little avail to profligate the supposed enemy of Mankind . At last one Mr. Roger Eaton a Merchant coming by , hears this sad Relation , and being curious to see with the rest , who stood upon the shore , he undertook to encounter the Monster ; an attempt no doubt as perilous by Water , as that of St. Georges was by Land ; the worst was , he could not find a Russ so bold & hardy as to row the Boat for him , till he had made one couragious by drinking . In short , he shots the Beast with a screw'd Gun , who being taken up , proved to be nothing else but an over-grown Pike ▪ a yard and an half long , and as big as a Man. The Fraternity asham'd of their Processions made against a silly Fish , did nevertheless to gratifie their Champion , make themselves and him drunk , and so the Play ended . But a worse Tragedy was acted , when they took another Pike not so large at this , intending to entertain one Mr. White an English Merchant ; for the Cook cutting it open , found a new-born Infant in its belly , which was suspected to be thrown in by one of the Nuns : This accident spoil'd their intended mirth , and the farther entertainment of Strangers . CHAP. X. Of the Chircasses . Their Religion , Complexion , Drinking , Dancing , Government ; Souldiery and Witch-craft . THe Chircasses hold the same Greek Faith with the Russians , but are not altogether so superstitious ; for they permit Strangers to come into their Churches . One of their Protopopes had appointed one in the Parish to come to him about mid-night unto private confession , but as the story goes , she fail'd of her promise . Next morning in the Church she stands aloof by her self , and after the Protopope had incens'd the rest of the good women , he comes to her , and instead of a Benediction , he demands why she kept not her promise ; to which she replied . Chichaco Boyallis , I was afraid of Chichaco ( a curst Cur which he had ) then he incens'd her again , and said he was tyed up , Then ( quoth she ) Moya Dooshinco , My Dear , Ah what a sinner was I , that I knew not so much before . Excuse this Drollery , which only serves as a Farce to fill up the Scene of a jejune story ; for I shall hardly make the Description of this barbarous place worth the pains and trouble of Reading . Now we are in Chichass Land , it will not be amiss to tell you what people they are , viz. A kind of Tartars , a rude swarthy look'd people ; their Women are very unhandsome , gross , and grosly given to drinking ; so that at an Entertainment they will be drunk before meat comes on the Table , and with eating recover themselves , and after Dinner be drunk again , and then recover themselves by Dancing , which they love so much , that they count him a mean man who does not keep a Fidler in his house . Their Government is perfectly Anarchical , for upon an Insurrection they destroy'd all their Nobility and Gentry , and are now govern'd by Collonels of their own chusing , with whom the meanest is Hail Fellow well met . Souldiers they call in their Language , Cossacks , which makes some mistake , and think them to be a Nation . These people are much devoted to Witch-craft , and count it an extraordinary piece of learning practised by the chief Women in the Countrey . They are more hospitable to Strangers than the Russians , and their Countrey or Land is better and warmer . CHAP. XI . Of the Russian Government Laws . Manner of writing . Their Clerks how called . Their Characters whence borrow'd . Their Petitions . His Imperial Majesties person and character compar'd with his Fathers . The Empire miserably impoverished and depopulated by the Tartarian Invasions . THe Russian Government is perfectly Monarchical , it has offices call'd Precauses ; the dispensation of their Justice is commonly Arbitrary , for they have very few written Laws , they go much upon Presidents ( but money is their best President , which overthrows all the former ) They waste abundance of Paper in writing down things at large ( as our Common-law Clerks do ) all in Rolls of a great length , and although they have a Table before them , they cannot write but upon their knees , after the old fashion that St. Jerom is pictur'd . Their Clerks they call Podiacks , and he that is Lord Deputy , Diack . They borrow most of their Characters from the Greeks , ( in number . 42. ) All things are transacted by way of Petition , which is roll'd up like a Waser , and the Petitioner holds it up before the Boyar , who if in a good humour puts forth his hand to receive it , and either reads it presently , or gives it to his Diac , who commonly must be brib'd for a Remembrancer . His Imperial Majesty is a goodly person , two months older than King Charles the Second , of a sanguine complexion , light brown hair , his beard uncut , he is tall and fat , of a majestical Deportment , severe in his anger , bountiful , charitable chastly uxorious , very kind to his Sisters and Children , of a strong memory , strict in his Devotions , and a favourer of his Religion ; and had he not such a cloud of Sycophants and jealous Nobility about him , who blind his good intentions , no doubt he might be numbred amongst the best and wisest of Princes ▪ His Father was a great lover of English men , and a man Cyrillic alphabet. А Auz Б Booki В Geadi Г Glaghole Д Dobro Е Yeast Ж Shiveate Selo З zembla И Isha ● К Kako Л Ludy М Meslate Н Nash О One П Pokoy Р Rutse С Slou Т Twerda У Eke Ф Fer Х Kher Ote Ц Tsi Ч Cherve Ш Sharv Щ Tshaw Year Ы Yeare Ь Ere yea you Ю yous ya O 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Pse ●eta Eshitsa 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of peace : but this Emperour is of a warlike spirit , ingaged against the Crim , Polacks and Swedes , with what success let time declare . Thus much I know : This Empire is impoverish'd , depopulated and spoil'd so much in ten years , as it will not recover its pristine prosperity in forty . Seven years ago the Plague carried away 7 or 8 hundred thousand people : And three years since the Crim carried away captive out of the Borders 400000 souls into perpetual Captivity , besides 300000 were consumed and kill'd by dint of Sword in several Armies ; the best of the Land is harass'd , the rest untill'd for want of men . For in five hundred Versts , travel up the River , you may see ten women and children for one man. All things are there become scarce ; every thing six times the rate that it was formerly ; and Copper-money is not valued . CHAP. XII . The Emperours rise . His Ancestors but Dukes of Volodimir . His Pallace how call'd . Of Juan Vasilowidg , and his divers odd humours , his Petition to one of his Diacks . His Conquests . How he was loved . How he fined Vologda . How he served the women that laughed at him . Of the Vayods mistake . Another Vayod how punished for taking a Goose . Juan a great lover of Queen Elizabeth . How he serv'd the French Embassador . How Sir Jerom Boze came off . A Shoomaker presented the Emperour with a Turnep , how rewarded . What the Emperour did with the Turnep . How a poor man entertained him . His associating with Thieves . How he was served by one of them , and how he preferr'd him . REturn we now to our Great Emperour , who is an absolute Morarch , but has a Council both general and particular to advise with . His Dominions are inlarged by his Forefathers ; for at first they were but Dukes of Volodimir , and increasing in strength possess'd themselves of Mosco , or ( as they write ) Moscua . The Emperours Pallace to this day is called , Crimlena Gorod , or Crim-Castle . Juan Vasilowidg ( that is called the Tyrant ) was a stout Prince , but had many strange humours . One day he came to his Diac , and gave him a Petition , desiring him that he would be pleased to make ready 20000 Men and Arms by such a time , and he should be very thankful to him , and pray for his health , and so he subscrib'd himself , Thy humble Servant , Jocky of Moscua . In this Expedition he conquer'd Casan , a thousand Versts down the River Volga , and Astracan ( quasi civitas ) the Imperial City two thousand Versts hence ; Took Syberia three thousand Versts distant , and one of the best flowers of the Empire . The people loved him very well , for he treated them kindly , but chastised his Boyars . He had a Staff with a very sharp Spike in the end thereof , which in discourse he would strike through his Boyars feet , and if they could bear it without out any flinching , he would highly prefer them . He once sent to Vologda for a Colpack of Fleas , and because they could not bring him full measure , he fined them . On a Festival he play'd certain mad pranks , which caused some Strangers , viz. Dutch and English Women to laugh ; he taking notice hereof , sent for them all to his Pallace , and had them strip't stark naked before him in a great Room , then he commanded four or five bushels of pease to be thrown down before them , and made them pick them all up , when they had done he gave them some wine , and bad them take heed how they laugh'd before an Emperour again . He sent for a Nobleman of Casan , who was call'd Plesheare , which is Bald , and the Vayod mistaking ( as the Russians say ) thought he had sent for an hundred and fifty Baldpates : Polteraste sounding like his name signifi'd so many . He therefore got together about eighty or ninety , and sent them up speedily , with an excuse that he could find no more in his Province , and desir'd pardon . The Emperor seeing so many Baldpates , wonder'd what it meant , and cross'd himself ; at last one of the chief delivering the Letter , he ask'd his Diack what he wrote to the Vayod , who shew'd him the copy , by which he found out the mistake , and so making the Bald-pates drunk for three dayes , he sent them whom again . Another Vayod had taken a Goose for a bribe stuff'd full of Ducats , and being complained of , he took no notice of him , till one day passing through the Poshiarr ( an open place like Smithfield , where execution was us'd to be done ) he commanded the Hangman to cut off his Arms and his Legs ; and at every blow the Hangman asked him whether Goose was good meat . He courted Queen Elizabeth very much to marry her , and was a great friend to the English . Once upon a suspicion of Treason , he fortified Vologda , and drew all his Treasure thither , and as some think upon extremity , intended his flight for England . This Emperour erected the best buildings in all Moscua . This Juan Vasilowidg nail'd a French Embassadors hat to his head . Sir Jerom Boze a while after came as Embassador , and put on his Hat , and cock't it before him , at which he sternly demanded how he durst do so , having heard how he chastis●d the French Embassador . Sir Jerom answer'd , he represented a cowardly King of France , but I am the Embassador of the invincible Queen of England , who does not vail her Bonnet , nor bare her Head to any Prince living ; and if any of her Ministers shall receive any affront abroad , she is able to revenge her own quarrel . Look you there ( quoth Juan Vasilowidg to his Boyars ) there is a brave Fellow indeed , that dares do and say thus much for his Mistris ; which Whoreson of you all dare do so much for me your Master ? This made them envy Sir Jerom , and perswade the Emror to give him a wilde Horse to tame ; which he did , managing him with such rigour , that the Horse grew so tyr'd and tam'd , that he fell down dead under him ; this being done , he asked his Majesty if he had any more wild Horses to tame . The Emperour afterwards much honour'd him , for he loved such a daring fellow as he was , and a madd blade to boot . When Juan went his progress , many of the Commons as well as Gentry presented him with fine Presents : A good honest Bask-shoemaker , who made shoes of Bask for a Copeak a pair , consults with his wife what to present his Majesty ; says she , a pair of fine Lopkyes , or shoes of Bask ; that is no rarity ( quoth he ) ; but we have an huge great Turnip in the Garden , we 'l give him that , and a pair of Lopkyes also . Thus they did ; and the Emperour took the present so kindly , that he made all his Nobility buy Lopkyes of the fellow at five shillings a pair , and he wore one pair himself . Thus put the man in stock , whereby he began to drive a Trade , and in time grew so considerable , that he left a great estate behnd him . His Family are now Gentlemen , and call'd Lopotsky's . There is a tree standing near his quondam house , upon which it is a custom to throw all their old Lopkyes as they pass by , in memory of this Gallant . A Gentleman seeing him so well paid for his Turnep , made account by the rule of proportion to get a greater Reward for a brave Horse ; but the Emperour suspecting his design , gave him nothing but the great Turnep , for which he was both abash'd and laugh'd at . Juan in a disguise sought a lodging in a Village nigh the City , none would let him in but a poor man whose wife was then in Travel , and deliver'd whilst he was there ; away he went before day , and told the man he would bring him some Godfathers next day ; accordingly he and many of his Nobility came and gave the poor Fellow a good largess , and burn'd all the houses in the Village but his , exhorting them to charity , and telling them , because they refused to admit Strangers into their houses , they should be forced to seek their Fortunes , and try how good it was to lie out of doors in the Winter . Sometimes he would associate with Thieves in a disguise , and once he advis'd them to rob the Exchequer ; for ( says he ) I know the way to it ; but one of the Fellows up with his Fist , and struck him a hearty good blow on the Face , saying , Thou Rogue , wilt thou offer to rob his Majesty who is so good to us ; let us go rob such a rich Boyar who has cozen'd his Majesty of vast sums . At this Juan was well pleased , and at parting changed caps with the fellow , and bid him meet him next morning in the Duaretz ( a place in the Court where the Emperour used often to pass by ) and there ( said he ) I will bring thee to a good cup of Aqua vitae and Mead. The Thief came accordingly , and being discover'd by his Majesty , was call'd up , admonish'd to steal no more , preferr'd in the Court , and serv'd for a discoverer of Thieves . CHAP. XIII . Of the present Emperour or great Czar . Czar from whence derived . His Titles and Arms. He marries not out of his own Dominions . His Diet. Lodging . Recreations . Visits . The Czaroidges Birth . THis present Emperour comes of Juans Race by the Mothers side : He had an elder Brother , an hopeful Prince , although he would take Pigeons , and pick out their eyes , saying to one , thou art a Traytor , and to another , cutting off his head , Thou art Ivan such an one , a Rebellious Traytor to my Father and me . But he dyed young . All the Emperours Sons are call'd Czarowidges , that is to say Czar's Sons , As for the word Czar , it has so near relation to Cesar ( as Thevet observes in Basils life ) that it may well be granted to signifie Emperour . The Russians would have in to be an higher Title than King , and yet they call David Czar , and our Kings , Kirrols , probably from Carolus Quintus , whose history they have among them . The present Emperours name is Alexie Michalowidg Romanove . viz. Alexis the Son of Michael the Roman . He puts in many Titles into his broad Seal as the Spanyards do . And thus he stiles himself . BY the Grace of God We the Great Lord Tzar , and Great Duke Alexei , Michailorich of all Great , Little , and White Rosia . Self upholder of Mosco , Kyore , Vladimer , Norgorod . Tzar of Cazan . Tzar of Astrachan . Tzar of Siberia , Lord of Plesco , and Great Duke Smolensko , Twersko , Vgorsko , Permsko , Veatsko , Bolgarsko . Lord and Great Duke of Norgorod in the lower Countreys of Chernigove , Rezan , Rostoue , Yeroslave , Beloozer , Odooria , Obdoria , Condinea , and all the Northern parts Commander . Lord of the Land of Iveria , of the Kartalinian and Groozinian Dukes : And of many other Dominions and Countreys , East , VVest and North Heir thereof , From Father and Grandfather Lord and Monarch . The Emperour in his Arms gives the spread Eagle , as descending from the Roman Emperours , but he carries a distinction , for he bears between the double head of the Eagle a mitred Crown , and in the Eagles breast St. George on Horse-back ; which some say was added upon Queen Elizabeths bestowing the Order of the Garter to Juan Vasilowidg . The Czarowidg ( as I said elsewhere ) is not seen of the people till he is about fifteen years old , nor of many Noblemen ; but then he is exposed to publick view , carried upon mens shoulders , and set on high in the Market-place , which is to prevent Impostors , wherewith this Land has often been deceived . The Czar marries not out of his own Dominions , but takes a wife where he pleases , though seldom out of the Nobility . When she dyes , all the interest of her Kindred and Relations dies with her . Eliah the present Emperours Father in law was of so mean account , that within this twenty years he drew wine to some English men , and his daughter gather'd Mushrooms , and sold them in the Market . The other which he should have had was a Captains Daughter . The Imperial Pallace is built of Stone and Brick , except some lodgings wherein his Majesty sleeps and eats all the winter : For they esteem wooden Rooms far wholsomer than Stone ; and they have some reason to think so , because their stone Rooms being arched thick reverberate a dampness when the Stove is hot . The Emperour lodges three story high . His drink is Brague made of Oates . His bread is made of Rye , which the Russians esteem a stronger nourishment than Wheat . The Czar lyes in no sheets , but in his Shirts and Drawers , under a rich sable Coverlid , and one Sheet under him . His Recreations are hunting and hawking . He keeps above three hundred Falconers , and has the best Ger-Falcons in the World , which are brought from Syberia ; he flyes at Ducks or other Fowl. He hunts the Bear , Wolf , Tyger , Fox , or rather baits them at his pleasure . Whensoever he goes forth , the East Gate of the inner Wall of the City is shut till he returns . He seldom visits any Subject , yet the last year he did , but went not in the common way , for the side of a wall was pull'd down . At the birth of the Czaroidg the Commons for joy bring him great Presents , which he returns back again , but if he likes any of them , he gives the full worth . On the Saturday after Good Friday , he goes into some of the Prisons , examines the Prisoners crimes , and delivers many of them . An English man put in for coyning , was lately releas'd . They put very few to death here , only whip them , which is worse than the paines of death . CHAP. XIV . Of the Emperours Revenues , great Priviledges , Trading , Provision , Traffick , allowance to his Houshold . Of his Pallace , high Tower. Of his Boyars . Of the Monasteries and Nunneries . Officers of State. The Czars temperance . Of his entertaining the Nobility . A story of General Leshly . AS the Emperours Territories are great , so is his Revenue ; For ( First ) he is master in a manner of every man's Estate , the Son does alwaies petition for his Fathers Land. They all hold in Capite . He is heir to all who dye intestate , criminally or without heirs . Secondly , his Customs are very considerable . Thirdly , The Cabacks ( or places where in are sold Aqua-vitae and strong Beer ) are his Royalty , and farms out fome for 10000 Rubbles per annum , and some again for 20000 Rubbles . Fourthly , His Bath-Stoves , which are very frequent here , are a great Entrado , for their Religion obliges to free-Baths , both Men , Women and Children . When they are hissing hot , they cast cold water upon them . Some come out into the Snow , and tumble in it stark naked , and then go into the Stove again . Fifthly , He is the chief Merchant in all the Empire . Sixthly , His Sable Trade in Syberia yields a vast treasure , brought in by the exil'd Slaves sent thither in disgrace . Seventhly , The Caviare made at Astracan , as also the Ithyocolla and Agarick , all which he monopolizes . Ivan Velacky Iohn the Great There are also five Monasteries , and two or three Nunneries together , with most of the Precauses , or Courts of Justice , the Apotheca , or Ammunition Gallery . The Czar has Officers of State as other Princes have , but not of so great value . His Gentlemen of the Bed-chamber come not into his Chamber , but wait in the next Room to it , and at the Table also , some two or three Rooms off . The Czar is temperate in his Diet , drinks very little Wine , sometimes he drinks at meales a little Cinnamon water , or oyl of Cinnamon in his smal beer . For Cinnamon here ( you must know ) is the Aroma Imperiale , ; the scents of Musk and Ambergreece are not much esteem'd , but Rose water is much used at Court , and so is holy Water in the Church . At the entertainment of his Nobility , the Emperour sits in his Chair , and delivers out of his hand a Chark of treble or quadruble Spirits , which are able to take away his breath who is not accustom'd to them . His Majesty will laugh to see his Subjects handsomly fuddled , and sometimes he will put Mercury into their Liquor . Old General Alexander Leshly a Scot aged ninety nine years ; now alive at Smolensko , had discourse with the Emperour about the storming of Smolensko , who being earnest to hear would not dismiss Leshly , then afflicted with an uncessant Diarrhaea ▪ his modesty kept him a little too long , but at last being necessitated , he got away abruptly : The Emperour wondring at it , demanded the reason of his suddain departure ; but understanding how the case went with the old man , who had lost nothing but the bolt of his back-gate , he fell into such a laughter as sufficiently declar'd he was not displeased with the Generals abruptness . CHAP. XV. Of the City of Mosco . Of the Czars Jewels . Of his Clothes , Of the Queen and her maids of honours attire . Their journeys in Waggons . How they rode formerly . The mode and language of the Russes all one . They differ in their actions from all other Nations . Of their Clock Dyals , and contrariety to other people in several things . And of other Customs they have THe City of Mosoua ( as the Russians write it ) stands upon a g●eat deal of ground , encompass'd with three Walls , besides that of the Imperial Castle . The innermost is a red Wall of Brick , the next to this is the white Wall , and the third is wooden Wall fill'd up with earth , which I suppose to be fifteen or sixteen Miles compass , and it was made up in four or five days , upon the approach of the Crim-Tartar ; there is as much Firr in it as would make a row of Lendon Paper-houses fifteen miles long . Since his Majesty has been in Poland , and seen the manner of the Princes houses there , and ghess'd at the mode of their Kings , his thoughts are advan●ed , and he begins ●o model his Court and Edifices more stately , to furnish his Rooms with Tapestry , and contrive houses of pleasure abroad . As for his Treasure of Jewels , I think no Prince ●oth exceed him , yet he hath many ●●ul Stones , but the Russians affecting greatness in Jewels , will upon that score ●ispense with small faults . The fashion of the Emperours clothes is like that of 〈◊〉 Nobility , but only richer . That of ●he Empress is the like , only the tire of 〈◊〉 head is higher , and her smock-●●eeves longer , about ten or twelve yards English , and her upper most Gown has wide sleeves like our Batchelors of Arts , which all her women of honour wear also . Commonly her Imperial Majesty makes her Journeys in the night with most of her women ( in Waggons cover'd with red cloth ) viz. Chamber-women , Ladies and Embroideresses . Not long since they were use to ride on Horseback with white Hats , a skain of silk about their Necks , and As●ride . Ri●um teneatis Amici . The mode of men and women , rich and poor , are all one , all over the Empire , from the highest to the lowest , and their Language one , yea and Religion too , which certainly must hugely tend to their peace and preservation . Here I might make some Reflections upon our own unhappy divisions and differences in opinions , but this perhaps might be censur'd as an unhistorical Action , and therefore , Cynthius aurem . — The Russians are a People who differ from all other Nations of the world , in most of their Actions . Their Shirt they wear over their Drawers , girded under the Navel ( to which they think a Girdle adds strength ) None , neither male nor female , must go ungirt for fear of being unblest . They whistle not with their lips ( that they count prophane ) but through the Teeth ▪ a strange way of whistling indeed . Whe● they spit on any thing to wipe it ( as Shoes , &c. ) they do use an action no● unlike sneezing . In cases of admiration or incredulity , instead of a shrug , they wave their heads from one shoulder to another . Their very speech and acce●● also differs from other Nations . 'T is 〈◊〉 grand Sin with them to omit lotionem ●●st mictum . As we use paper in our ●acking-Office to clear accounts , so Ju●● de Rusco uses a little Spade made of 〈◊〉 thin shaven , like the Ivory Spatula's ●hich Merchants and Scriveners use to ●●ld up letters , and smooth them . In our Clock-Dyals the Finger moves 〈◊〉 the Figure : In the Russian e contra , 〈◊〉 Figures move to the Poynter . One Mr. Holloway , a very ingenious man , contrived the first Dyal of that fashion ; ●ying , because they acted contrary to 〈◊〉 men , 't was fitting their work should ●e made suitable . Because the Roman Catholicks kneel at their devotion , they will stand , for they look upon kneeling ●s an ignoble and barbarous Gesture . ●ecause the Polonians shave their ●eards , they count it sinful to cut them . Because the Tartar abhors Swines-flesh , ●●ey eat it rather than any other flesh , ●●though its food is most Pogano , or un●lean of any Beast . They count it a ●●eat sin for a Russ to lye with a Dutch woman or English Woman ; but a ve●ial Piccadillo for a Russ woman to prostitute her self to a Stranger , for they say her issue will be educated in the true ancient Faith , but a Russ gets an uncircumcized child of a Stranger . The pre●e● Rye above Wheat , and stinking Fish above fresh . They count their miles b●ninties , and not by hundreds . Thei● New years day is the first of September● From the Creation they reckon 706● and odd years . To things improbabl● they easily give credit , but hardly believe what is rational and probable . In their salutes they kiss the woman● right cheek . Lands 25 of Inheritance are entayl'd upon the youngest Brother . They write upon their knees , thoug● a table stand before them . They sow with the needle toward● them , and thrust it forward with thei● fore-finger ; it should seem they are ba● Taylors . They know not how to eat Pease an● Carrets boyld , but eat them shells an● all , like Swine . They do not pick thei● Pease , but pull them up by the roots and carry them into the Market to b● sold ▪ They know not the name of Cornuto : ●ut of a Cuckold they say , He lyes under ●e Bench. They will sooner take the word of a ●●an who has a Beard , than the oath of ●●ne who is Beardless . The beauty of Women they place in ●●eir satness , juxta illud ●●alicum , Dio ●●i faccia grassa , to mi faro bella . God ●●ake me ●at , and I 'le make my self beau●●ful . Their painting is no better than that ●f our Chimneys in the Summer , viz. ●●ed Oaker and Spanish White . They paint or stain their teeth black , ●●on the same design that our Ladies ●ear black patches : Or it may be their ●●eth being spoil'd by mercurial paint●●g , they make a vertue of necessity , and ●●y up that for an Ornament which is ●●ally a Deformity . Low foreheads ●●d long eyes are in fashion here ; to ●hich purpose they strain them up so ●●rd under their Tyres , that they can 〈◊〉 ill shut them , as our Ladies lift up ●●eir hands to their heads . They have secret amongst them to stain the very ●lls of their eyes black . Narrow 〈◊〉 and slender Wasts are alike ugly in the sight . A lean Woman they account u● wholsom , therefore they who are i●clined to leanness , give themselves ov●● to all manner of Epicurism , on pu●pose to fatten themselves , and lye a be● all day long drinking Russian Bran● ( which will fatten extreemly ) the● they sleep , and afterwards drink agai● liste Swine design'd to make Baco● These are their odd customs , which 〈◊〉 may justly censure as the Satyrist d●● the debauch'd Romans in his time , saying . Dum vitant stulti vitia in contrar● currunt . And indeed to say truth the● madness is so great , that all the Hel●bore in Anticyra cannot purge it away ▪ CHAP. XVI . Of their Judiciary proceedings . Of murther how punish'd ; the accused must confess the fact . Of their Executioner and cruel Torments . The punishment of Coyners . A Fellow that shot at a Jack●aw how punish'd . Conspirators banished into Syberia , &c. Hanging lately used amongst them , and how . I Cannot at present give you an account of their Judiciary proceedings , which are very confused , and yet they have a method , and every Province its Precause or Office , wherein is a Bayor , or Lord , and a Chancellor call'd a Diac , who hath many Clerks under him : He represents the Boyar , who is the Representative of his Imperial Majesty . If there be a Suit in Law , and no bribes on either side , most commonly the Plaintiff gets the better for they presume he has most right . Murther is here to be bought off with money ; If a Man kill his Slave or his Wife in correcting them , there is no law against them . Or if a man is murther'd , and no body prosecured his murtherer , the law takes no notice of his death . The accused cannot be condemn'd although a thousand witnesses come in against him , except he confesses the Fact ; and to this end they want not torments to extort Confessions ; For first , they put them upon the Strappado , if this does not , they secondly whip them , and herein their Hangmen are very exquisite : For 't is said at six or seven lashes they are able to kill a man. Sometimes the consederate will see the enemy to execute such a piece of his office , to prevent farther mischief . They can strike to an hairs breadth , and with a sharp kind of Iron pierce through the very Ribs ; they will slice down a mans back like a Chine of Pork , and when that 's done , they will salt the raw place , bind his hands and legs , and putting a Cowlstaff through them , hold him over the Fire , and Carbonadoe him . If he persists ( for may be the party has nothing to confess ) they let him loose , and the Hangman sets his shoulders , and lets him rest twenty days , till he be almost well , and then repeats the former Torments , and perhaps pull out a Rib or tow with a pair of hot Pincers ; If all this will not do ( for some will outstand all these Tortures ) they will then shave the crown of his Head , and drop cold water upon the bare place , which some that have felt , acknowledge to be the quintessence of all Torments ; for every drop strikes like a dart to the very heart . All this is done where the Hangman is not brib'd , for he will then cut deep . I have seen some whose backs have been scarifi'd like the bark of a Tree , which afterwards were healed , but they could never wear out the scars and marks thereof . The punishment of Coyners is to melt some of the coyn , and pour it down their throat . Neque enim lex ●ustior ulla est , quam necis Artifices Arte perire sua . A Fellow two years ago , being fool-hardy , shot at a Jack-daw in the Imperial Court , but the Bullet glanced , and fell into one of his Majesties Rooms , for which fact he lost his left Leg and right Hand . If there be secret conspiracy contrived and disclosed in the acting , the Traytors are secretly tormented , and afterwards sent towards Syberia ; and in the way an hundred or two hundred Versts off , softly put under the Ice . Others having their Noses cut off , and their eyes pull'd out , or their Ears cropp'd , are banished into Syberia , three thousand Versts distance . Hanging has not been in use but of late years ; for the dull Russ thought if the Malefactor were strangled , his soul was forced to sally forth at the Postern-gate , which made it Pogano , viz. defiled . The Hangmans place is hereditary , and he teaches his children to strike upon a leathern Bag. The Malefactor puts his head into the Noose , and turns himself off when the Hangman commands him . CHAP. XVII . Of Syberia and its Inhabitants . Chay and Bour Dian brought from thence , their qualities . Tambul the Metropolis of Syberia . A discourse of Sables , how kill'd . The excessive coldness of this Countrey . How they feed their Cows . Of the River Ob. What Caviare is made of . Of Samogeda , their Dyet . Sledges how drawn . Hunting . Indistinct habit . Of their manners . And other remarkable observations concerning these Northernlings in general . SYberia is a vast unknown Province , reaching to the Walls of Cataya . I have spoken with one that was there , who traded with the Chinesses , and another also who said he saw a Sea beyond Syberia wherein were Ships and Men in strange habits , like the Chinesses by their description , rich in cloth of Gold and Jewels , no Beards but on their upper lip . From hence this latter brought Chay and Bour Dian. The Chay is that which we call Teah or Tey , and Bourdian . is Anisum Indicum Stellatum , the Merchants say they use it ( as we do in England ) with Sugar , and esteem it a rare Remedy in diseases of the Lungs , flatus Hypochondriaci , and distempers of the Stomach ; 't is brought over in papers about one pound weight , written on with Chinese Characters . They who travel into these parts are six years in their Journey , staying for winter way in some places , and summer in others . The Metropolis of Syberia is Zambul , the Residence of the chief Vayod . They trade in Furs , and chiefly in Sables , which , as some say , are found in no other part of the world beside . They feed on a Berry or Nut , which here grows plentifully upon trees , what it is I cannot learn , but am promised some of them , with further information . They hunt six or seven weeks together , and are drawn by Dogs , whom they feed with Fish , wherewith their Lakes and Rivers abound , : they put forty or fifty Dogs in a Sledge , and are cloth'd with treble Furs ; they lie out all night in the coldest season , and make fires , with which they dress their Fish . The Dogs are expert in finding out the Sable , and the Men as dextrous in shooting them in the nose with a bolt , which makes them become a prey to the hounds . Except they hit the Sable in the nose they lose him , for he is an hardy Beast , and will run away with an Arrow in his Body ; besides , it spoils the Fur. 'T is so excessive cold here , that water thrown up into the Air will descend congeal'd into Ice . The most Northern parts afford no Bread , but Fish in abundance , which they eat dryed instead of bread , and yet they live to a great age . They feed their Cows with Fish during the frost , which makes the milk taste fishy . The River Ob is a vast River , whose end is as yet unknown : there is great store of Fish call'd Bebuga , much like a Whale , but better meat , out of whose spawn and the Sturgeons together , they make Caviare at Astracan , which they lay in great heaps of salt , and after a little fermentation press it , and barrel it up . We have some here unpress'd ; 't is a great dainty , but will not keep . The North of Syberia is call'd Samogeda , or Tsamoeida , which signifies Canibals , or Men-eaters , for they eat those whom they conquer in battel . Their food is most Fish , their riches Deer , of which they have great herds , and so tame , that at whistle they will appear at hand , and suffer themselves to be harnessed , and put to the sledges by pairs , which they will draw swiftly as wind eighty miles a day . When they hunt for new Deer , they consult the Priest , who , after many ceremonies and conjurations , tells them in what quarter they must go , and most commonly they find his predictions true . There is no distinction in the clothes of Male or Female , but both are made of Deer skins , with the hair side outward , which by experience they find the warmest . You can hardly distinguish the men and women by their visage , neither wear Beards , and both have faces like Baboons . Their Manners , Language and Religion are brutish , for they worship the Sun and Moon , and good reason have they to adore the one , and make good use of his light , which they enjoy so little in the winter . They are excessively jealous of their Wives , which puts me in mind of the strength of fancy and custom : One being ask't if he thought not an English Woman ( then present , young and handsom ) as pretty and fair as his Lady ugly ; answer'd , no surely , thy Wives complexion is pale , like the belly of a Fish , our Womens colours are natural and genuine . Their Daughters are esteem'd great Riches , and must not be seen by young men , till contracted in Marriage , which they are at six or seven years old , that they may be sure to have them Virgins : they buy them of their Parents for so many head of Deer , and take them home to their houses , and lock them up al Italiano . The men likewise serve their wives so , when they go an hunting , and 't is as ordinary as strings to a purse . For they have a Proverb , He that leaves his purse open invites a Thief to it ; such as have seen their Engines , say they come not short of the Italian ones . Their houses are only round tents made of Deer-skins and Matts , with a fire in the midst , and a hole at the top for the smoke , about which they lye round , and find themselves warm enough . In the Summer they remove near the Rivers to fish , which they dry , and preserve against Winter , they kill their fishes with arrows , and most commonly eat them raw : they eat young Puppies , and count them a rare dish . They are not thought worthy of a Governour by his Imperial Majesty , nor so considerable as to be taxed , only voluntarily they pay a few Deer . None understand their barbarous language but themselves , nor yet their Laws which they execute secretly . When they sell a Deer to Strangers , they are sure to indent to have the garbage , which they eat after a slight squeezing out of the excrements . He is best qualifi'd amongst them who knows most in Magick , wherein they are excellent , especially before Strangers , but amongst the Russes they dare not play any feats , least they should be accused . At Archangelo divers of them being treated by an English Merchant , one in the company being very drunk , besoul'd himself , and was as rude as a Bear , or Tom a Bedlam . Hereupon an old Woman was call'd in , who whisper'd in his ear , touch'd his forehead , and the man became as sober as if he had drunk nothing . CHAP. XVIII . Of the Southern parts of Syberia . The Wilderness called Step , full of Cherry-trees and fine Flowers . Of Elks. Of the Zoorick and Perivoshick . The Countrey of Squirrels . Of a little Bird like a Woodcock . Another like an Hawk . A third as big as a Swan . The story of the Vegitable Lamb refuted . GOing towards the more Southern parts of Syberia , you shall see a Wilderness called the Step , which is six or seven hundred Versts long , most of it ●s Champain , it has but few Rivers , ●et the ground is incredibly fruitful . There you may ride a days journey through a field of Cherry-trees , not a●ove three quarters of a yard high ; the reason why they are such dwarffs , is , because they are so often burnt down by Strangers or Travellers , who making fires in the Autumn catelesty depart , and the grass being long and dry takes fire , which sometimes has pursued them to death , two or three hundred Furlongs have been burnt at a time . These trees yield a sine red Cherry , but very tart : Such as have been transplanted have proved very good . I have spoken with those who have seen here variety of Tulips , Damask and red Roses . Asparagus exceeding large , Onions , Marjoram , Time , Sage , Chicory , Endive , Savory , &c. & what else we carefully nourish in our Gardens ; Liquorish also in great plenty , which invite thither Ursa major and Ursa minor : lastly Pars●ips and Carrets . Merchants fetch from thence much Salgemmar , and Nitre . Their Elks are the largest in the world ; they have also a little Beas● call'd a Zoorick , about the bigness of a Badger , but not of that make ; it has ● dark brindled fine smooth hide , short legs , a little head , a back almost a spa● broad , and is indeed a pretty plump creature . They dwell under ground like Coneys , When Colonel Crafords Regiment quarter'd near their cells , they came out wondring at them , and standing upon their hinder legs , they made such a shrill and unexpected noise , as put the men into such a fright , and the horse grasing by them , that some ran away ten Versts before they could be overtaken . The Russes relate strange stories of their mutual Wars , taking Prisoners , and making Slaves to bring in their winter provision , as Hay and Roots ; ●his may pass for a Russian Fable . But , ●or certain they say , that their Burroughs are very finely contriv'd , and that they are so neat and curious in their houses , that if any of them dye in the Burrough , they will carry them out and bury them . ●n these parts there is another Beast call'd Perrivoshick , whose furr is brown yel●ow , mixed with a little white and black , which shews well in a coat , though little valued here , because the ●urr is short , and of little warmth ; this beast ●s said to be very civil in carrying Squirrels and Ermines over Rivers , and this is the reason why he is called Perrivoshick , i. e. the Ferry man or Transporter ; and the same word in the Russian tong●● signifies a Translator . The Russes say these Beasts take great delight in transporting other creatures . I never heard it from any eye-witness , but this I have , that whole Countreys of Squirrels having spent their provision on the one side the River , will adventure over to the other , using their tayls for their Masts , Rudder and Sails , and a small chip or stick for their Boat , with a fore-wind , which veering about hazards the whole Fleet ; for they cannot ●tack about , and if once their sails take wet they are utterly undone and defunct . About Cazan and Astracan there is a little Bird about the bigness of a Woodcock , his legs and bill not unlike a Snipe , but the feathers and neck like a Cock of the Game , being cut and trimm'd they fight like Cocks , sparring at one another , and yet they have no● spurs . They are in continual war , i● kept in the house , and will lie on their guards with their bills on the ground , and at first advantage run a tilt with their single Rapiers , as violently as any Duellist , brusling up their neck-feathers ( a guissa di gallo ) they are meat beyond Quails , and are also f●●nd about Archangelo , with another B●●l as great as an Owzle , made like an Hawk , who flyes at smaller birds , catches them , sticks them on a thorn , and picks them very clean before she eats them . There ●s a Bird brought hither from Astracan ●as big as a Swan , not unlike in his body and his feet , but hath somewhat shorter and thicker neck ; he has also a very ●ide throat able to swallow down a fish ●ine inches adout . Perhaps in some histories of these parts , you may have ●eard of a vegitable Lamb , which de●ours all the grass about it , and then flyes ; but this is as true as the story of Monocular people in Sir John Mande●ils Travels , and such like Fables , which ●ave not the least shadow of truth . CHAP. XIX . A brief account of Tartary . It 's Metropolis . To whom the Tartars pay Tribute , The Muscovite formerly tributary to the Crim-Tartar . How far they march in a day . They eat horse-flesh , but no bread nor salt , the reason why . They are very quick sighted , excellent horse-men of the Colmack Tartars . The Crim's describ'd , they deride the Russian worship . The grounds why they do it . HAving fetch 't this compass , I thin● it fit to touch upon Tartaria , an● tell you what account I have had from thence , which though incompleat tak● as you find it , and be pleased to excus● the brevity of this Narration . The Metropolis of Tartary is calle● Crim , it is a strong walled Town upo● the Tartarian Sea , from whence the grea● Cham is nam'd the Crim-Tartar . The● say the City is built of Stone and Bri● very stately . The people are tributa● to the Turk , and Moscua was formerly tributary to them , and paid ten thousand Sheep-skin coats yearly to the Duke of Moscovi's homage , which was to feed the Crims horse with oates out of his Cap , to this also he was sworn by a strict dath . But within this ten years the tribute has been refused , because the Tartar broke the League by invading the Confines : And indeed they are troublesom neighbors , like Flyes when they are routed , they fly in a moment , dispersing themselves one by one , but at night rendezvous again ; and 't is almost as impossible to got one of their led horses , which will not leave their companions . They will march an hundred miles a day with changing their horses once or twice ; for every man is furnished with three at four at least . If any of them tyre o● dye , they share them among the troop , and being sufficiently chased under the saddle , they make an hearty meal of them . If any of them fall sick , they give him some Mares milk , or fresh bloud from an horse which they bl●●d on purpose . They bring no Salt nor Bread along with them , nor do they eat any at all , alledging that Salt makes them dim-sighted , and Bread breeds a dull and heavy nourishment . They are certainly as quick-sighted as any people in the world , and will descry upon the Step or Wilderness ( where a man hath nothing to hinder his prospect thirty or forty miles round ) I say , they will descry a single man , when a Russ cannot see a whole troop of Tartars . There are no better Horsemen in the world , at full speed they will raise up themselves upon their stirrops , and shoot behind them with their arrows , which sufficiently gall their enemies Horse . The Colmack Tartar-women are as good souldiers as their Husbands , many of them acknowledge the Emperour for their Soveraign . This year an an army of Women to revenge the taking of some Children and Captives by the Crim's people , encountred the Tartars Army , took many prisoners , and routed the rest . O brave Virago's ! worthy to be numbred amongst the Amazonian Worthies . The Colmacks have a vast Countrey , and live in Tents , where they use grasing , Tamberlane was born here . They are larger siz'd than the Crim-Tartars , and of an other feature , but more swarthy . The Crim-Tartars are flat-fac'd , small ey'd , have their eyes deep set , narrow foreheads , and low broad shoulders ; they are of a middle stature , so shaped , that 't is hard for them to conceal themselves in any place wheresoever they shew their faces . They break the noses of their children being new born ; saying , it is a foolish thing to wear a nose , that stands in a mans sight . They are all Mahometans , and laugh at the Russians for worshipping a painted piece of board , and say 't is better to worship the Sun , because he has a glorious body , does the world much good , and none can injure him as they may a wooden Idol . Your Gods ( say they to the Russes ) in a short time grow blind , ( i. e. obliterate ) and then you throw them into the River with a Copeak or two , and a piece of Olibanum tyed up in a string , and so commit them to the Volgian stream which runs into the Caspian Sea ; and we take them up , and broil a piece of Horse flesh upon them . What is that for a God ? which is no better then a Gridiron , and cannot resist the hands of them that destroy it . Most rationally spoken . Mosovitae non possunt respondere Argumento . CHAP. XX. What the simpler sort of Russians are , their Idolatry and ignorance , what they think of St. Nicholas , their high conceit of good works . They are great Rogues . Some are good among them . The Poles are not so barbarous as the Russes . The Poles characteriz'd , their Laws ▪ their King how stiled , he is very magnificent . King Henry weary of the title ▪ How he made shift to get away out of Poland . TRue it is the simpler sort of people in Russia are meer Idolaters , and in the Northern parts , as Archangele and Cola , they know no other God but St. Nicholas , whom they really imagine to to rule all the world . They say he came to St. Nicholas ( a Port-town by Archangel● ) swimming from Italy upon a Milstone ; if any Russ should question the truth of this story 't is as much as life is worth . They celebrate the Festivals of their own Saints with greater honour than the Apostles . For they say of St. Nicholas , he is Nasha Bradt , one of our Brethern , and has a greater kindness for us his Countrey-men , than St. Peter or St. Paul who never knew us . When they have extorted a vast Estate out of the bowels of poor people , and grinding the faces of Strangers , they think to expiate all their wicked actions at last by building a Church , and endowing it with abundance of Images adorn'd with Jewels , and furnishing it with a Ring of Bells ; this they account a meritorious work , and indeed it is so when the glory of God is chiefly aim'd at , and not selfinterest and vain applause sought thereby . Greater Rogues there are not in the whole world , yet there is many good people also . Such as have improv'd their parts by conversing with Strangers , are more civiliz'd ; yea those who have seen the Polish way of living , which though I cannot much admire , yet surely 't is not so barbarous as the Russian ; for they have a way to improve their wits by Learning , which they are debar'd in Muscovia ; and may travel out of their own Countrey , a thing prohibited to the Russians . Notwithstanding all these improvements , they are a scurvy nasty Nation as as ever I convers'd with , proud and insolent , hugely self-conceited , alwaies extolling their own Countrey above all others , vain and prodigal in their expences before company , gawdy in their Apparel , rich in their Horses and Trappings , civil and hospitable to Strangers , till they have seen all their pomp , and have been drunk twice or thrice , and then like Welshmen they are willing to be rid of them . They are greater Drinkers than the Russes , and so quarrelsome in their drink , as few Gentlemen are seen without some eminent scars , which they wear as badges of honour gotten in the wars of Bacchus . Their Laws are the most barbarous of any people living , for homicide is satisfi'd by a pecuniary mulct , a Crown ( as I remember ) for killing a Peasant , and so higher according to the quality of the person . Their King may be stiled Rex Bacchatorum , for in their Comitia , when a vote has passed all but one peremptory Coxcomb , he will rise up in the spirit of contradiction , and laying his hand upon his Cimitar saucily protest against it , though not able to give a reason for what he says , and perhaps the business is demurr'd for that time ; next day being half drunk , he will be the first in passing the very same vote . Their King is little better than a painted Rudder , which seems to steer , but does not . Henry the Third , afterwards King of France was ( as I take it ) King of Poland , and so weary of his Kingship , that he would willingly have chang'd it for a pair of Shoes of good running Leather . On a certain day he made an entertainment for many of the Nobility , whom he made drunk , having for his own wine nothing but fair water colour'd red : One of these drunken Lords he laid in his own Royal Bed , the Curtains were drawn , and Waiters stood by the bed side , who knew nothing of the design . In the mean time the King slip't away , and by horses laid on purpose made his escape out of the Confines . The Son of Bacchus being in the interim well attended , at last awakened , and betray'd the plot , whereupon they made all possible hast to catch their King again , but being gone into another Countrey they treated with him , beseeching him to return , and they would for the future be very civil unto him ; but he answer'd , No. That bird deserves to be a prisoner all its days , that will return again to the Cage when he is once got loose : As for mine own part I had rather be a Peasant in France , than King in Poland . Stultissima optio — CHAP. XXI . Of Lues Venerea . Of the Polonian Plica , a familiar distemper , and very infectious , yet they highly esteem it . When hair first began to be powdred . The Poles more honourable in keeping Articles than the Russes . A comparison of the Polish and Russian Languages . Their salutations are stately . How the Tartars and Chircasses salute . The Chircasses Religion . MY Lady Lues Venerea is as well known in Poland as in the place where she was born ; not a mushy panny ( Lord ) nor a pannya ( Lady ) but are intimately acquainted with her , and so is the Court and the Countrey . The Russes in the conquests of Vilna , and many other Towns and Provinces on the Borders of Poland , have taken her Ladiship prisoner , whom they are like to keep longer than their Towns. For till this War she was not known here this thousand years : But when she gets into such a cold Countrey as this , she earths like a Badger so deep , that there 's no driving of her out without a Pickaxe or Firebrand ; juxta illud , les Veroles de Rouen et la boue du Paris ne jamais sortont la pais sans oster la piece . The Pox of Rouen , and the Dirt of Paris never go away without taking a piece out . But what is worse , the Poles have the Plica as familiar among them , as the French have the Itch ; and so infectious too , that few in a house escape it when 't is once crept in amongst them . Certainly there cannot be a greater plague in the world , for besides its many dreadful symptoms , the nasty elfish lock stinks like an old Ulcer , and yet they wear it as a badge of Nobility . Some you shall have with hair full of brayds or knots , as I saw a Monks , which look'd like Medusa's , who for this monstrosity was accounted a man of more than ordinary sanctity . The like esteem they have of Horses , who are troubled herewith in their Manes , or Foretops , for they think them Steeds of good courage and service , If an envious person cuts off never so little of the Plica , the Horse either dyes , runs mad , or becomes blind and lame . They say the first use of Hair-powder came from the Poles , who were fain to perfume the Plica to abate its odious stench . 'T is hard escaping this disease if you pass through the Countrey , where Arsenical Mines poyson the water , for it comes on a suddain ; Unico aquae Arsenicae haustulo , &c , The Poles are more honourable in keeeping their Articles and Covenants than the Russians , who seldom keep faith with an enemy , if the breach thereof be but advantageous . Yet in private concerns the Russ fears an oath , because 't is seldom administred , which makes it the more to be reverenced . Their Languages differ not much , just as English and Scotch , the Polish is said to be the more copious and complemental , but to my ears , which judge by outward sounds , it seems the more harsh in pronunciation , and worse than a medly of Welsh , Irish and Cornish . They spit in your face when they talk . Their Orthography is like the Welsh , six Consonants to one Vowel . Their salutations are in lofty terms , they bow not so much as the Russians . The Tartars salute with their fore-finger upon their mouth , and a little nod , and embrace their Superiors about the knees . The Chircasses salutes are blunt and rude , as , how do thy Children and thy Servants , thy Cows and thy Sheep , thy Horses and Goats and Swine , thy Cocks , Hens and Turkeys , are they all in good health ? This they punctually repeat every morning they meet . They are of the Greek saith , but not so superstitious as the Russians , who think their Churches defiled if a Stranger sets his foot into them , and therefore wash them after that pollution , and the Stranger must either turn Russ , or satisfie his folly with the loss of his life ; in which they imitate the Mahometans , as also in many other fooleries . CHAP. XXII . The Court of Russia . Of the Present Czar his Father . Grave Wolmer how disappointed in Marriage . Czar Michaels death . The story of Boris Juanoidg . How the Czar elects a Wife . Whom Boris preferr'd . His height makes him envied . Eliah exalted . The Russians extol Marriage . Eliah disabled . Who succeeds him . Nashokin a great Reformer . Highly commended , his words concerning the French and Danes supporting the Hollanders against England . He is a great lover of the English . How he censured a Bill of Mortality , and some other discourse which he held . IT would be too tedious and impertinent at this present time to recount the rise of the Family of the Romanoves , how they assum'd the name of Czar , how Basil about one hundred and forty years since reduced the lesser Dukes of Russia , and Juan Vasilowich prosecuted what his Father began , and subdued the Kings of Cazan , Astrocan and Syberia ; this would become the history of the Czars life , which I wish I had opportunity and ability to write : For certainly since Kings raign'd upon earth , there never was a man heard of more prodigiously Tyrannical , and yet a more fortunate Prince than he . The Father of this present Czar was was Michael , a Prince of incomparable clemency and magnificence , a lover of peace and amity with all Christian King's , kind to Strangers , and very Religious . Grave Wolmer , the late King of Denmarks natural Son should have married his Daughter , but the Clergy objected he was an Heretick , hereupon 〈◊〉 proffer'd his Chaplains should main●ain the truth of his Faith , which the Russian Priests refusing , the Czar breaks ●ut into passion ; saying , What Faith 〈◊〉 this that we profess , that you are unwilling to bring to a tryal . Some few days after going well to bed , about mid-night he was taken with a vomiting , and dyed in the morning , and ( after the Russian fashion ) was carried into the Church the next night . So the dispute ended . His Czaritsa did not long survive him , and Grave Wolmer was fain to leave his Mistris , and shift for himself as well as he could . This Czar often charged his Son to follow his Governours counsel in all affairs , who was Boris Juanoidg Morosove by name , of whose Father the Russes relate this story , That he being a favourite of the great Tyrant , presumed ( being a Widdower ) to beg one of his handsome Concubines for a Wife , which was granted him , but whilst they were at their amorous enjoyments shut up in the Bathstove , he secretly convey'd 〈◊〉 wild Bear , which fell upon them , and devour'd them both . He had two Sons Boris and Chleab , which the Emperou●● educated . Boris being a kind of Lord Protector , diminished the number o● houshold Servants , brought the rest t● half wages , rais'd the Customs , and gav● Embassadors half allowances , sent a● the old Dukes to Governments afar off ; Ripnine to Belgorod , and Corakin to Cazan . The Czar being to take a Wife , all the choice beauties in the Countrey are brought before him , one he fancies , and gives her a Handkerchief and Ring , she appears again in a Royal dress ; but Boris ordered the Crown to be tyed so hard about her head , that she fell into a swoon , this was presently construed an Epileptick fit , ; her Father being examined with torments , was , alas poor old Gentleman , sent into Syberia , and died by the way with grief , and left his Family in disgrace . The maid is still alive , but never known to have had any more fits . She has been offer'd many Noblemen , but refuses all , and keeps the Handkerchief and Ring . The Czar allows her a pension to expiate the injury done to her Father and Family . Boris Juanoidg proposed Mary the Daughter of Eliah Daneloidg of obscure Gentility , rais'd by the death of his Uncle Grammatine the Chancellor of the Embassadors Office , to whom he fill'd wine in his minority , The present Ctzaritsa has often gone into the woods to gather Mushrooms . She was a tolerable beauty . adorn'd with the precious jewels of modesty , industry and religion . She was married prrvately for fear of Witch-craft , which is here common at Nuptials . Boris petitioned for the younger Sister Anna , and obtain'd her , and from thence concluded his interest well rivetted . But the Lady was not so well pleas'd with him being an old Widdower , and she a succulent black young Lass ; so instead of children jealousies were got , which produced a leathern lace about a finger thick , a complement that often passes between the Russian Lords and their Ladies , when their Amours are extravagant , or the Brandy wine too strong in their heads . One William Barnsly an English man ( born at Barnsly Hall in Worcestershire ) was sent to Syberia by this Boris's instigation for being suspected too familiar in his house . He has been their above twenty years , and at last he turn'd Russ , and was richly married . This height of Boris draws envious eyes from the ancient Nobility , whom he daily makes to decline , and brings in creatures of his own . The people murmure at their new Taxes , accuse Boris , and peremptorily demand him of the Czar , who finding himself surpriz'd , desir'd the life of Boris might be spared , and kissing the Cross , swore he should never come to the Court again . The old Nobility are countenanced for a time : In the mean while the commons are complemented underhand to petition for Boris his Restauration , which was easily granted . Boris hereupon gratifies the people , and becomes their Favourite , and a patron also to Strangers . He died six years since , in a good old age , successful he was in his Counsels , beloved of his Prince , lamented by the People , but not of the Nobility , who cannot yet accomplish their designs . For Eliah Daneloidg is made Generalissimo . He is a goodly person , has limbs and muscles like Hercules , a bold man , of great parts , and such a vast memory , that he knew all the Commission Officers of an Army eighty thousand strong , where they quarter'd , and what their qualifications were ; the Czar rather Cizaritsa has often gone into the woods to gather Mushrooms . She was a tolerable beauty . adorn'd with the precious jewels of modesty , industry and religion . She was married prrvately for fear of Witch-craft , which is here common at Nuptials . Boris petitioned for the younger Sister Anna , and obtain'd her , and from thence concluded his interest well rivetted . But the Lady was not so well pleas'd with him being an old Widdower , and she a succulent black young Lass ; so instead of children jealousies were got , which produced a leathern lace about a finger thick , a complement that often passes between the Russian Lords and their Ladies , when their Amours are extravagant , or the Brandy wine too strong in their heads . One William Barnsly an English man ( born at Barnsly Hall in Worcestershire ) was sent to Syberia by this Boris's instigation for being suspected too familiar in his house . He has been their above twenty years , and at last he turn'd Russ , and was richly married . This height of Boris draws envious eyes from the ancient Nobility , whom he daily makes to decline , and brings in creatures of his own . The people murmure at their new Taxes , accuse Boris , and peremptorily demand him of the Czar , who finding himself surpriz'd , desir'd the life of Boris might be spared , and kissing the Cross , swore he should never come to the Court again . The old Nobility are countenanced for a time : In the mean while the commons are complemented underhand to petition for Boris his Restauration , which was easily granted . Boris hereupon gratifies the people , and becomes their Favourite , and a patron also to Strangers . He died six years since , in a good old age , successful he was in his Counsels , beloved of his Prince , lamented by the People , but not of the Nobility , who cannot yet accomplish their designs . For Eliah Daneloidg is made Generalissimo . He is a goodly person , has limbs and muscles like Hercules , a bold man , of great parts , and such a vast memory , that he knew all the Commission Officers of an Army eighty thousand strong , where they quarter'd , and what their qualifications were ; the Czar rather fear'd him than lov'd him ; but the Czaritsa alwaies kept up his Interest . He is made Lord Treasurer , and six or seven Offices more are conferr'd upon him , all which he manages with great vigour , but not without Bribery . Which the Czar did the more connive at , because he knew full well that this Silver stream at long running would fall into the Ocean . Notwithstanding all these expectations , at last perceiving Eliah too kind to some of his handsome Tartar and Polish slaves , he urged him ( being an old Widdower ) either to marry or refrain the Court. For the Russians highly extoll marriage , partly to people their Territories , and partly to prevent Sodomy and Buggery , to which they are naturally inclined , nor is it punished there with Death . A lusty Fellow about eight years since being at this beastly sport with a Cow , cry'd to one that saw him Ne Misheay , do not interrupt me ; and now he is known by no other name over all Muscovy , then Ne Misheai . Eliah at present having had an Apoplectick fit , is disabled in body and mind , and knows no body without being told . His miss had been the greater , had not that great States-man Nashockin , succeeded and suppli'd his place in many Offices . It was this Nashockin who concluded the peace with Poland upon honourable terms , and finished the League with Swedland . He is now made Chancellor of the Embassadors Office , Treasurer , Lord of Russia minor , and has several other Offices . He contriv'd the Silk-trade through Russia , and 't is thought all the Indian Trade will be drawn that way . He is now about reforming the Russian Laws , and new modelling all the Czardom . There shall be no delatory Suites ; all Governours with their Assistants shall have power of life and death ; for before all Criminals were brought to Mosco , with no less trouble than charge to the Czar . This same counsel Jethro gave to Moses . This Nashockin is one who will not be corrupted , he is a very sober abstemious man , indefatigable in business , an admirer of Monarchs : Speaking about the French and Dan● siding with the Hollander against England , he brake forth into these words . I wonder that these two King 's should have no more prudence or reason , than to support or countenance such Boors against the Monarch of England , who should rather joyn together with the rest of the Princes in Europe to destroy all Republicks , which are no better than the Nurseries of Heresie and Rebellion . I have heard him say , that 't is the Czars interest to keep a good correspondence with the King of England above any other Christian Prince . He is the only Patron the English have . Being sollicited to admit of English goods , he produced the London Bill of Mortality , wherein very few dyed of the Plague ; notwithstanding ( said he ) how do we know but the Goods may be brought out of some of the infected houses , and one spark of fire will kindle a whole sack of Charcoale . 'T is a strange custom to publish your infirmities . Beggars indeed expose their ulcers to to raise commiseration , and get relief . But they who proclaim the P●st , give a caveat against all commerce of them , as men set up lights to keep ships off their coasts . Another thing seems strange unto us , that Royal Letters are often sent privately to us in in behalf of private men to demand Justice , as if our Czar had not made sufficient provision for Strangers as well as Natives . We seldom have any such applications from any other Prince but that of Denmark , where we hear they are purchas'd at a cheap rate : What they cost in England we know not , but what have we to do with the customs of other Nations . Their clothes will not fit us , nor our cloths them : thus he ended his discourse abruptly , and if he had spoken more then he had mind should be repeated . But by this you may judge ( tanquam ex unque leonem ) that he is a great Politician , and a very grave and wise Minister of State , not inferiour peradventure to any one in Europe . CHAP. XXIII . The Czars description . His answer to a Stranger . How he appears in publick . He never visits any Subject . His Court without noise . He seldom dines publickly . At Easter his Subjects kiss his hand . How he pays his Strelsies . What he has done to employ the poor . The Czaritza governs the Women . From whence the Emperour 's chief Revenues proceed . I shall now give you a further description of the Czar . He is a goodly person , about six foot high , well set , inclin'd to fat , of a clear complexion , lightish hair , somewhat a low forehead , of a stern countenance , severe in his chastisements , but very careful of his Subjects love . Being urged by a Stranger to make it death for any man to desert his Colours ; he answer'd , it was a hard case to do that , for God has not given courage to all men alike . He never appears to the people but in magnificence , and on Festivals with wonderful splendor of Jewels and Attendant● ▪ He never went to any Subjects house but his Governours when he was thought past all recovery . His Centinels and Guards placed round about his Court , stand like silent and immoveable Statues . No noise is heard in his Pallace , no more than if uninhabited . None but his Domesticks are suffer'd to approach the inward Court , except the Lords that are in Office. He never dines publickly but on Festivals , and then his Nobility dine in his presence . At Easter all the Nobility and Gentry , and Courtiers kiss the Emperours hand , and receive Eggs. Every meal he sends dishes of meat to his Favourites from his own Table . His stores of Corn , and dry'd flesh are very considerable , with these he pays his Strelsies or Janzaries , giving them some cloth , but very little money ; for they have all Trades , and great Priviledges . The Emperour with his Pottash , Wax and Honey , he buys Velvet , Sattin , Damask , cloth of Gold and Broad-cloth , with which he gratifies his Officers for their service . He hath now seven Versts off Mosco , built Work-houses for Hemp and Flax , in that good order , beauty and capacity , that they will employ all the poor in his Kingdom with work . He hath allotted many miles of wast Land for that design . The Czaritza is to govern the womens side for her use and profit . Thus the Czar improves the Manufactures of his Countrey , feeds all the Labourers as cheap as we do our Dogs . And lays up the money that comes out of the Cabacks , Bath stoves , Tart , Pitch , Hemp , Flax , Honey , Wax , Caviare , Sturgeon , Bellusa , and other salted and dry'd fish from Astracan , Cazan , the Lake Belsira , and many other Lakes and Rivers with which the Countrey abounds , especially Syberia in the latter . CHAP. XXIV . The Czar goes every year to a house of pleasure call'd Obrasawsky . Of the curious tents erected there . How cautious the Emperour is of letting the vulgar sort behold his pastimes . This commended for several reasons . None are to petition the Czar in the fields . What hapned to a poor Russian Captain for so doing . The Emperours resentment for his death . Peter Solticove turn'd out of Office , and banished the Court ; the cause why . Nashockin put in his place . The Czar in the night time visits his Chancellors desks . He has Spyes in every corner . 'T is death to reveal any thing spoken in the Court. The Russians answer to inquisitive persons . The Czars children how attended ; they are bound to keep secrecie . EVery year towards the latter end of May the Czar goes three miles out of Mosco , to an house of pleasure call'd Obrasausky : In English Transfiguration , being dedicated to the Transfiguration in the Mount. And according to that , Master 't is good for us to be here , let us make three Tabernacles ; So the Emperour has most magnificent Tents , his own is made of cloth of Gold , lined with Sables . His Czaritsa's with cloth of Silver , lined with Ermines . The Princes according to their degree . His and Czarritsa's , with those of his eleven children and five Sisters , stand in a circle with the Church-Tent in the middle , the most glorious shew in its kind that ever I saw . There are Rails and Guards set Musquet shot from them , beyond which no man may pass without order : Fo● the Czar will have none of the vulgar people to be eye-witnesses of his pastimes . Indeed the too near approaches of the common Rabble make discovery of Princes infirmities , not to say vanit●es , Majesty is jealous of Gazers . This made Montezume King of Mexico keep his Subjects at such a distance that they ●urst not behold him , familiarity breeds contempt , when Princes expose themselves too much unto publick view , they grow cheap , and are little regarded . Therefore in a Theatre , the Stage is rail'd in , that the Spectators may not crowd upon the Scenes , which shew best at a distance . And so it fares with Princes , the more they are reserv'd the more they are observ'd , the more implor'd the more ador'd ; otherwise they run a great hazard of being contemn'd , and reckon'd no better than their Subjects , seeing an equal mortality and frailty of flesh attends all men . When the Czar goes into the Countrey or fields to take his pleasure he gives strict charge that none should interrupt him with Petitions . A Captain of white Russia , and native of that Countrey being three years without pay , and finding no restress from Peter Solticove Lord of that Province , came and press'd too near the Czars coach ; the Czar perceiving no petition in his hand , suspected he might ●e an Assassinate , and with his staff ●once Cxar Juans ) not unlike a dart , in●ending to push the fellow away , he ●ruck him to the heart , and he died . The Nobility rid up to the coach , and ●●arching what arms the man had , found ●othing but a wooden spoon , and a petition for three years Arrears , Whereupon the Czar smote his Breast , saying , I have kill'd an innocent person , but Peter Solticove is guilty of his blood , whom God forgive ; and immediatly sending for him , after a severe check , he turn'd him out of his place , banished him from the Court , and appointed Nashockin that great Minister of State to take his Office , and examine and find out the misdemeanours thereof . This hapned in June last , and this action was but whispred , and that too with much peril of a mans tongue . In the night season the Czar will go about and visit his Chancellors Desks , and see what Decrees are pass'd , and what Petitions are unanswer'd . He has his spyes in every corner , and nothing is done or said at any Feast , publick Meeting , Burial or Wedding but he knows it . He has spyes also attending his Armies to watch their motions , and give a true account of their actions : These spyes are Gentlemen of small fortunes who depend on the Emperours favour and are sent into Armies , and along with Embassadors , and are present on all publick occasions . 'T is death for any one to reveal what is spoken in the Czars Pallace . I being curious to see the fine buildings for the Flax and Hemp , ask't to what end they were built , but not a Workman durst tell me , though they know it well enough ; but they replied , God and the Emperour know best , this was all I could get from them . The Czars children are attended with children of their own bred up with them , and there is none of them but know their distance , and their degrees of bowing to all sorts of persons . None dare speak a word what passes in their Court. CHAP. XXV . The story of a Jew turn'd Mahometan , he falsly accuses Nashockin , and is lash'd for his pains . Jews how crept into the Court. A Discourse of Bogdan Matfeidg ( the Czars great Favourite ) his Pandor and Amours . His Ladies jealousie , how she was made away . The Czar reproves him . He and Nashockin no good friends . Of the Czars Religion , vvherein he is very zealous and constant . He fasts at several times eight months in a year , disposes of all Ecclesiastical Preferments . His high commendation . THis Summer a Jew turn'd Persian Mahometan , and an Interpreter to the Persian Merchants , came in their behalf with a loud complaint against Nashockin for a business depending in the Embassadors Precause , or Court. To whom the Czar replied , saying , I have left Nashockin to determine all affairs of Merchants , let him do you Justice , but if I find your Interpreters complaint impertinent , I shall place all my displeasure on his back ; and so it prov'd , whereupon he was graced with thirty good ashes laid on in order like red tape upon tawny leather , and doubtless they will out-last the best Garment he hath : For their whippings are very keen , and cut to the bone . The Jews of late are strangely crept into the City and Court , by means of a Jewish Chyrurgion ( pretendedly baptiz'd Lutheran ) who assists Bogdan Matfeidg ( Steward of the Houshold ) in his amours , and supplies him with Polish handmaids , he being bred up in Poland . But his Lady ( as she had good cause ) being jealous of these handsome Slaves which her Husband kept , some in his Gardens , and some in his House , became a burthen unto him ; they therefore one night last Winter brought her some Dainties , which she eat , and was merry after it , but in the morning was found dead in her bed . Others say 't was a poysoned glass of wine they gave her , which cured her of all diseases . This caused much grumbling among the Commons , and since that time the Czar has urged him to marry , and abandon that wicked life he led with his Polish Doxies , or else he should his place . 'T was said he would take one of his Mistresses for his wife . This Bogdan is the Czars great Favourite , Lord High Steward , and regulates all domestick Affairs . He was bred up from a child with the Czar , and is of the same age . They call him the whispering Favourite , because when ever he comes to Council , he acts behind the Door . Nashockin is no friend to him , nor he to the English , being better suppli'd with money from the Dutch. As to the Czars Religion , he is of the Greek Faith , and very strict in the observation thereof . He never misses divine Service , if he be well he goes to it , if sick it comes to him in his chamber . On Fast-dayes he frequents midnight prayers ( the old vigils of the Church ) standing four , five or six hours together , and prostrating himself to the ground sometimes a thousand times , and on great Festivals fifteen hundred . In the great Fast he eats but three meals a week , viz. on Thursday , Saturday Sunday ; for the rest he takes a piece of brown bread and salt , a pickled Mushroom or Cucumber , and drinks a cup of small beer . He eats Fish but twice in the great Lent , and observes it seven weeks together , besides Maslinets ( or cleansing ) week , wherein they eat milk and eggs . Out of the Fast he observes Mondays , Wednesdays and Fridays , and will not then eat any thing that comes of flesh . In fine , no Monk is more observant of Canonical hours , then he is of Fasts . We may reckon he fasts almost eight months in twelve , with the six weeks fast before Christmas , and 2 other small fasts . Those that instituted so many Fasts advanced fish to spare flesh , which else would be destroy'd , because they are forc'd to house their Cattle all the winter , sometimes five months space . The Czar does not disdain to assist at the Processions bare-headed , and on foot if it be not rainy . He is a great Patron of the Church , yet restrains the profuse bounty of dying men to the Clergy . None can found a Monastery without his licence . He makes bold with the Church Treasary upon loan in time of war , and pays it again ad Graecas Calendas . For indeed should he not do so his contribution would fall short , seeing the Church holds almost two third parts of the Czardom . In his Pallace he has an Hospital of very old men , 120 years old , with whom he often discourses , and delights to hear them tell what pass'd in his Ancestors time . Once a year , viz upon good Friday , he visits all the prisons in the night , and taking personal cognizance of all the Prisoners , buys out some that are in debt , and releases others that are criminal , as he thinks fit : He pays great sums for such as he is inform'd are really necessitated . His Czaritza buys out Women . He disposes of all Ecclesiastical preferments , but has left the election of the Patriarch to lot , having ( as he thinks ) had ill luck in using his Prerogative for the late Patriarch Nicon . To conclude this Chapter , without doubt this present Emperour of Russia is as pious , conscientious , clement , merciful and good a Prince as any in the world . As for his People and Ministers of State , they are like other Nations , ready to act any thing for Bribes or Money , and to deceive as many as they can . CHAP. XXVI . Trading in Russia very low . English Cloth a drug , why slighted . The Authors Reflection . If Persians trade there , what English are like to suffer . What the Russians are in general . Concerning the Dutch , what the English must do to out-vye them . How much they abuse us to the Emperour . 'T were convenient for England to undeceive the Czar . How things should be represented to Nashockin and Bogdan . The Russians mightily pleased with their peace with Poland . THe Trade last Summer was very low in Mosco , by reason of their late war , which had dreyn'd them of two Fifths , besides the raising of their Customs , and taking their Goods by force for copper money , which fell from an hundred to one , till at last it was call'd in , to the undoing of many men . Divers hang'd themselves , others drunk away the residue of their States , and dyed with drinking , English Cloth is a Drug , because dearer than the Dutch , which though slight , and shrinks a sixth part in wetting , yet the Russians like it , because they say none but new cloth will shrink , but we are too blame for not fitting them with the like . Again , we keep our old trade of Cloth , but they bring Silks , and all manner of pedlary ware , which vends better than cloth , the which grows now much out of Fashion . Sed si populus vult decipi , decipiatur . If the Persian and Indian Silk trade prevail in Russia , the Czar , I fear will think it too great a boon to restore the English Immunities , and 't will be as hard for them to regain their priviledges , as it was for Pharoahs people to drive their Charriots through the Red Sea , when their wheels fell off . As I have nothing to say against the magnificence , splendor , clemency and ●●rtue of the Czars own person , So I have no reason to recommend the Russes integrity , for the generality of them are false , Truce-breakers , subtile Foxes ▪ and ravenous Wolves , much altered , since their traffick with the Hollander , by whom they have much improv'd themselves in villany and deceit , The Dutch , like Locusts , swarm in Mosco , and eat bread out of the English-mens mouths , they are more in number , and richer , and spare no gifts to attain their ends ; whereas the English depending on their old priviledges , think 't is enough to say with the Jews , We have Abraham to our Father , we are English men , do us right , or we will complain : But the Russians are of Solomons opinion , that money answers all things . If we would out-do the Dutch Trade , it must not be driven on by such as take up Goods upon trust and time , as it has been these twenty years last past . At present they come like Locusts out of the bottomless pit , and so they do all the world over , where there is a Sun-shine of gain . In Russia they are better accepted than the English , because they gratifie the Nobility with gifts , which they will have if they lend any assistance . The Hollanders have another advantage , by rendring the English cheap and ridiculous by their lying pictures , and libelling pamphlets , this makes the Russian think us a ruined Nation . They represent us by a Lyon painted with three Crowns revers'd and without a tail , and by many Mastive Dogs , whose ears are cropt and tails cut off . With many such scandalous prints , being more ingenious in the use of their Pen●ils than Pens . These stories take much with barbarous people , when no body ●s present to contradict them . It would not be impertinent , in my opinion , if some intelligent person in Moscua should represent the state of his Majesty of Great Britains Kingdoms , Forces and Territories to the best advantage , and also his Colonies in the West-Indies , with all their Revenues , and drawing a Map of the aforesaid places , present it to Afanasy Nashockin , to breed in him an opinion of his Brittish Majesties real greatness , which the Dutch have so much extenuated . Bogdan Matfoidg the Chamber-Favouritie should not be neglected neither . He fancies Rarities , and therefore should be presented ▪ with some . For as Nashockin maintains reason of State , so Bogdan must be the man to procure the Czars personal affection towards his Majesty of Great Brittain . The Russes are very proud of , and much pleased , with the honourable peace they have made with Poland , and now think no Nation superiour ; for they are never good natur'd but when they are either beaten or bribed . No master ( to them ) like Mars nor mistris like Luna , these indeed are the only Planets , which rule the world . CHAP. XXVII . Of Caviare , how and where made . The length of the Fish Belluga . Caviare of two sorts . The Belluga swallows abundance of Pebbles ; it is an excellent meat . Isinglass is made of his Sounds . HAving elsewhere mentioned Caviare , I shall now give you a full account thereof ; It is made at Astracan , of the Rows of Sturgeon and Belluga . The Belluga is a large Fish , about twelve or fifteen foot long , without scales , not unlike a Sturgeon , but more ●ushious and large ; his flesh is whiter than Veal , and more delicious than Marrow . Of these two Fishes they take great numbers only for their Rows sake , which they salt and press ▪ and put up into Casks , some they send unpress'd , and a little corn'd with Salt being accounted a great Dainty . Caviare is of two sorts , the first made of the Sturgeons spawn , this is black , and small grain'd , somewhat waxy , like Potargo , and is call'd Eekra by the Russians , the Turks make this . The second sort is made of the Belluga's Row , in whose belly is found an hundred and fifty , and two hundred weight of spawn , 't is a grain as large as a small pepper corn of a darkish gray . The Belluga lyes in the bottom of the River , and swallows many large pebbles of an incredible weight to ballast himself against the stream of Volga , augmented by the snows melting ; when the waters are asswag'd he disgorges himself . His spawn is call'd Arminska Eckra , perhaps the Armenians were the first makers of Caviare . This they cleanse from its strings , salt it , and lay it upon shelving boards to drain away the ●yly part , and the more unctuous fat●y substance ; this being done they put 〈◊〉 into casks , and press it very hard , ●ill it become indurate . Near Astracan they kill many hundred of Belluga's for the spawn , and thr●● away the rest ; but 't is pitty , seeing 〈◊〉 Fish is one of the greatest Dainties th●● comes out of the watry Element , especially his belly , which surpasses 〈◊〉 marrow of Oxen. That glew wh●●● they call Isinglass is made of the B●●luga's sounds . depiction of mushrooms. CHAP. XXVIII . Of several sorts of Mushrooms which grow in Russia , their forms and qualities , they are divided by Botanists into two kinds , viz. Lethales and Salutif●rae . IN describing the Vegetables which grow in Russia , I shall only give you an account of some few Mushrooms very remarkable for their shape and qualities . Being seven in number . 1. Rizhices black and red , they are small , and grow in Marishes in one nights space . 2. Volnitzi's black and brown , with some red and copped . 3. Gribbuy's are brown and darkish yellow , with a stalk like a Pi●aster . 4. A Groozshdy grows hollow like a Simnel , and being full ripe is white like a well order'd Tulip . 5. Dozhshovick is white , large and spongy . Lethalis habetur . 6. Fungus faviginosus , Honey-comb-Mushrooms , in Russ Smorteshkyes are the first that appear above ground , Gribbuys next , and the rest towards the Autumn . 7. Maslenicks , Butter-Mushrooms , signifying the fat of the earth . Fungos dividunt Botanici in Lethales & salutiferos sive ediles . Lethales apud Ruthenos pauci sunt , ediles varii & nullibi meliores , pauperum sunt cibus , divitum cupedia-Mille carri Moscoviti●i fungis onerati in ipsa Moscu● quotannis expenduntur . Servantur autem muria conditi . Carri autem sunt parvi & sicut Hybernici unico equo tracti . Qui primo succrescunt mense Maii vel Aprilis numerantur inter Lethales & a Gerrardo nostro Faviginosi nuncupantur . Hic vero Magnatum fercula adornant : Et charo vaeneunt . Ruthenici Smortezshkys , Artocreata & Juscula ingrediuntur . Sub fine Mensis Maii & initio Junii ( modo pluit ) prorumpunt unica nocte Rizshickys minores fungi quìdam nigricant , alii rubescunt , praecipue in locis paludosis . Volnitzi sunt fusci coloris russique magis cacuminati . Gribbuy's Junii mense primum apparent praedictis majores fusci , russi , duri stipite in forma medictatis Collumellae tumescentes . Groozshidys fungorum maximi : palmam lati , instar Omasi bubuli sunt Crassi & candidi . Dum crudi sunt succo abundant , eos sicut Tithymallum muria corrigunt Rutheni , aliter fauces & guttur inflammabunt . Ipse semel nimis inconsiderate assatos comedere tentabam , non sine suffocationis periculo . Mastenickys quasi pinguedo terrae , nam Masla apud Moscovitas , butyrum , oleum , sevum , omneque adiposum vel oleaginosum significat : nam dicunt Masla Carrova Oleum vaccinum , Derravanna masla olcum olivarum , vel potius oleum Arborarium , nam Derrava arborem sonat . Hi Maslinickys mense Julio nascuntur , & colori Butyri rectissime assimilantur . Sed de Fungis satis . depiction of mushrooms. In the end of May , and beginning of June ( if it rain ) the Rishickys break forth in one night , these are a lesser sort of Mushrooms , some are blackish , others reddish , especially in Fennish places . Volnitzis are of a brownish tawny colour , and more copped . Gribbuys first appear in June greater than all the rest , brownish , reddish , hard stalk'd , swelling in the middle like a pillar . Groozhdys , the greatest of Mushrooms , an hand breadth , like a Cow-tripe thick and white , whilst raw very iuycy ; the Russians correct it ( as they do Sea-lettice ) with brine , else they will inflame the chops and throat , once I rashly adventur'd to eat them roasted , not without danger of choaking . Maslenicks signifie the fat of the earth . For Masla amongst the Russians denotes butter , Oyl , Tallow , or any fat or oyly thing , as masla Corrova , Cow-oyl : Derravana masla , oyl Olive , or oyl of trees ; for Derrava signifies a tree . Maslinickys spring in July , and resemble the colour of butter : but this shall suffice touching Mushrooms . Thus Reader thou hast had a brief and pleasant Narration of Russia , and which indeed was never perfected by any , for reasons assigned by the Author at the beginning of this Treatise . The Stationer to the Reader . THis Copy I received from the hands of a Gentleman that attended upon the learned Dr. C. all the time of his being with the Emperor of Russia , It was then in the form of a Letter written with the Doctors own hand to an eminent Doctor of Phisick here in London . Afterwards I was advised by several Persons of Quality to put it into the hands of some that were learned and skilful , to distribute it into Chapters and Sections , for the more easie finding out anything contained therein , and the better methodizing it , that it might answer the Title designed for it . And in regard the Author died before it came to the Press , which prevented his looking it over , or correcting any thing that might be occasioned through his hasty writing of it , I was necessitated to get another worthy person to Transcribe it , who being altogether a stranger , not only to the Doctors stile and way of writing , but also to the stile and language of this Country of Russia except by reading . The Reader I humbly conceive will not wonder if some litteral and other small errors in that Language have escaped his hand , which is most in the proper names of Men and Office , and indeed not so much to be attributed to the Transcribing as the Printing , Russ being a language not ordinarily printed in England . All which mistakes are carefully and faithfully collected , by comparing the Book with the first Copy : And whereas in p. 6. it is said it was a custom to have strangers , to christen the Russian , read to be christened Russ ; and in p. 84. l. 21. the word being is to be left out : The Russian words that are to be corrected , are as followeth . Page 13 line 17. for Caenass r. quass . p. 19. l. 21 , r. Almaus & l. 22. r. Posolsky . p. 28. l. 23. & 296. r. Nimcheen . p. 36. l. 9. for press , r. Empress , p. 38. l. 3. read Rostove , p. 41. l. 8. read Boyalsa , and l. 19. Chirchass . p. 46. l. 18. r. Pleasheve . p. 54. l. 16. for in r. him . p. 55. l. 3. read Michailouich , l. 5. r. Kyove , l. 6. r. Nougorod , p. 77. l. 19. r. Beluga , p. 112. l. 16. r. Beluga , p. 119. l. 15. r. lashes , p. 121. l. 4. add the word loose . FINIS . Books sold by Dorman Newman at his Shop at the King's Arms and Bible in the Poultry . Folio . THe History of King John , King Henry the Second , and the most Illustrious King Edward the First , wherein the ancient Soveraign Dominion of the Kings of Great Brittain over all persons in all causes is asserted and vindicated : with an exact History of the Popes intollerable usurp●tion upon the Liberties of the Kings and Subjects of England and Ireland . Collected out of the ancient Records in the Tower of London . By William Prinn , Esq ; of Lincolns Inn , and keeper of his Majesties Records in the Tower of London . A Description of the four parts of the world , taken from the works of Monsieur Sanson Geographer to the French King , and other eminent Travellers and Authors ; to which is added the Commodities , Coynes , VVeights and Measures of the chief places of traffick in the world , illustrated with variety of useful and delightful Maps and Figures . By Rich. Blome Gent. Memoires of the Lives , Actions , Sufferings and Deaths of those excellent Personages that suffered for Allegiance to their Soveraign in our late intestine Wars , from the year , 1637 , to 1666 with the Life and Martyrdome of King Charles the First . By David Lloyd ▪ The Exact Polititian , or Compleat Statesman , briefly and methodically resolved into such Principles , whereby Gentlemen may be qualified for the management of any publick trust , and thereby rendred useful for the Common-welfare . By Leonard Willan , Esq ; A Relation in form of a Journal of the Voyage and Residence of King Charles the Second in Holland . The History of the Cardinals of the Roman Church , from the time of their first Creation to the Election of Pope Clement the Ninth , with a full account of his Conclave . Doctor John Don's Sermons in Folio . Stapletons Juvenal large Fol. Quarto . The Christian mans Calling , or , a Treatise of making Religion ones Business ; wherein the Christian is directed to perform in all religious duties , natural actions , particular vocations , family-directions , and in his own recreations in all relations , in all conditions , in his dealings with all men , in the choice of his company , both of evil and good , in solitude , on a week-day , from morning to night , in visiting the sick , and on a dying bed . By George Swinnock . Mr. Carils exposition on the Book of Job . Gospel Remission , or a Treatise shewing that true blessedness consists in the pardon of sin . By Jeremiah Burroughs . An exposition of the Song of Solomon . By Iames Durham late Minister in Glasgow . The real Christian , or a ' Treatise of effectual calling ; wherein the work of God in drawing the soul to Christ being opened according to the holy Scriptures , some things required by our la●e Divines as necessary to a right preparation for Christ : and a true closing with Christ , which have caused , and do still cause much trouble to some serious Christians , and are with due respects to those worthy men brought to the ballance of the Sanctuary , there weighed , and accordingly judged : to which is added a few words concerning Socinianism . By Giles ▪ Firmin sometimes Minister at Shalford in Essex . Mount Pisgah , or a Prospect of Heaven , being an exposition on the fourth chapter of the first Epistle of St. Paul to the Thessalonians . By Tho. Case sometimes student in Christ-church , Oxon , and Minister of the Gospel . The vertue and value of Baptism . By Zach. Crofton . The Quakers spiritual Court proclaimed ; being an exact narrative of a new high Court of Justice , also sundry errors and corruptions amongst the Quakers which were never till now made known to the world . By Nath. Smith who was conversant among them fourteen years . A Discourse of Prodigious abstinence occasioned by the 12. months fasting of Martha Taylor the ●●med Darbyshire Damosel ; proveing , that without any mi●acle the texture of humane bodies may be so altered that life may be long continued without the supplies of meat and drink . By Iohn Reynolds . Octavo and 12. Vindiciae Pietatis , or a vindication of Godliness from the imputation of folly and fancy ; with several directions for the attaining and maintaining of a godly life . By R. Allin . Heaven on Earth , or the best ▪ Friend in the w●rst times ; to which is added a Sermon preached at the funeral of Thomas Mosley Apothecary : By James Janeway . A token for Children , being an exact account of the conversation , holy and exemplary lives , and joyful deaths of several young children , By James Janeway . Justification only upon a satisfaction , By R●b . Ferguson . The Christians great interest , or the tryal of a saving interest in Christ , with the way how to attain it . By William Guthry late Minister in Scotland . The vertue , vigour and officacy of the Promises displayed in their strength and glory . By Tho. Henderson . The History of Moderation ; or , the Life , Death , and Resurrection of Moderation , together with her Nativity , Country , Pedigree , Kindred and Character , Friends , and also her Enemies . A Guide to the true Religion ; or , a Discourse directing to make a wise choise of that Religion men venture their salvation upon . By I. Clappam . Rebukes for ▪ sin by God's burning anger ; by the burning of London ; by the burning of the VVorld , and by the burning of the wicked in Hell-fire , to which is added a Discourse of Heart-fixedness . By Tho. Doolittle . Four select Sermons upon several tex●s of Scrip●ure , wherein the VVill-worship and Idolatry of the Church of Rome is laid open and confuted . By William Fenner . The life and death of Dr. James Vsher Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland . A most comfortable ond Christian Dialogue between the Lord and the Soul : by William Cooper Bishop of Galloway . The Canons and Institutions of the Quakers agreed upon at their General Assemby at their new Theatre in Gracechurch-street . A Synopsis of Quakerism ; or , a Collection of the fundamental errors of the Quakers . By Tho. Danson . Blood for Blood , being a true Narrative of that late horrid mur●her committed by Mary Cook upon her chi●d . By Nath. Partridge ; with a Sermon on the same occasion , by Iames Sharp . The welcom Communicant in Octavo . The present state of Russia , by Dr. Samuel Collins , who resided nine years in that Court , 〈◊〉 Octo. 1. The discovery of natural corruption . 2. The remedy of natural corruption . 3. Meditations of mortality : 4. The description of a Friend . 5. Gods Troops invading man. 6. The helpfulness of faith in great tryals . These six several Treatises by Nicho. Locki●● Minister of the Gospal . FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A34008-e1950 Poles ▪ Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. Fig. 6. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. Fig. 6. 
A39792	----	The history of Russia, or, The government of the Emperour of Muscovia with the manners & fashions of the people of that countrey / by G. Fletcher, sometime fellow of Kings Colledge in Cambridge and employed in the embassie thither. Fletcher, Giles, 1549?-1611. 1643 Approx. 301 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 144 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2005-12 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A39792 Wing F1330 ESTC R28633 10717582 ocm 10717582 45537 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. A39792) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 45537) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1402:22) The history of Russia, or, The government of the Emperour of Muscovia with the manners & fashions of the people of that countrey / by G. Fletcher, sometime fellow of Kings Colledge in Cambridge and employed in the embassie thither. Fletcher, Giles, 1549?-1611. [4], 280 p. W.M., [London] : 1643. Engraved t.p. Reproduction of original in the University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign Campus). 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. 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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 Soviet Union -- Social life and customs. Russia -- Politics and government -- 1533-1613. Soviet Union -- Description and travel -- Early works to 1800. 2005-04 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-05 Apex CoVantage Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2005-06 Emma (Leeson) Huber Sampled and proofread 2005-06 Emma (Leeson) Huber Text and markup reviewed and edited 2005-10 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion THE HISTORY of RUSSIA OR The Goverment of the Empero●● OF MUSCOVIA with the manners & fashions of the People of that Countrey . by G. Fletcher sometime fellow of Kings Colled●● in Cambridge , and employed in the Embassie thithe● W. M. fecit . 1643 The Contents of the severall Chapters . Chap. 1 THe description of the Countrey of Russia , with the breadth length and names of the Shires Fol. 1 Chap. 2 Of the Soyl and Climate Fol. 6 Chap. 3 The native commodities of the Countrey Fol. 14 Chap. 4 The chief Cities of Russia Fol. 28 Chap. 5 The house or stock of the Russe Emperour Fol. 34 Chap. 6 The manner of inauguratiō of the Russe Emperours Fol. 40 Chap. 7 The manner of their Government Fol. 47 Chap. 8 The manner of holding their Parliaments Fol. 52 Chap. 9 The Russe Nobilitie and by what means it is kept in an under proportion agreeable to that state Fol. 57 Chap. 10 The government of their Provinces or Shires Fol. 70 Chap. 11 The Emperours Privie Councel Fol. 82 Chap. 12 The Emperours customes and other Revenues , with the Sophismes practised for the encrease of them Fol. 86 Chap. 13 The Russe Commonaltie , and their condition Fol. 107 Chap. 14 Their publick justice and manner of proceeding therein Fol. 117 Chap. 15 The Emperours forces for his Warres , with the Officers and their salaries Fol. 127 Chap. 16 Their manner of mustering , armour , and provision of victuall Fol. 137 Chap. 17 Their order in marching , charging , and their martiall discipline . Fol. 141 Chap. 18 Their Colonies , and policie in maintaining their purchases by conquest Fol. 146 Chap. 19 Their borderers with whom they have most to do in warre and peace Fol. 155 Chap. 20 Of the Permians , Samoites and Lappes Fol. 180 Chap. 21 Their Ecclesiasticall state , with their Church Offices Fol. 166 Chap. 22 Their Liturgie or form of Church-service , with their manner of administring the Sacraments Fol. 218 Chap. ●3 The doctrine of the Russe Church Fol. 231 Chap. ●4 Their manner of solemnizing Marriages Fol. 240 Chap. ●5 The other Ceremonies of the Russe Church Fol. 246 Chap. 26 The Emperours domestick behaviour Fol. 256 Chap. 27 The Emperours houshold , with the offices of his house Fol. 265 Chap. 28 The private behaviour and manner of the Russe people Fol. 268 CHAP. 1. The description of the Countrey of Russia , with the breadth , length , and names of the Shires . THe countrey of Russia was sometimes called Sarmatia . It changed the name ( as some do suppose ) for ●hat it was parted into divers small and yet absolute governments , not depending nor being subject the one ●o the other . For Russe in that tongue doth signifie as much as to part , or divide . The Russe reporteth that foure ●●ethren , Truber , Rurico , Sinees , and ●arivus , divided among them the North parts of the countrey . Likewise , that the South parts were posessed by foure other , Kio , Scie●o , ●horanus , and their sister Libeda : each ●alling his territorie after his own ●ame . Of this partition it was cal●d Russia , about the yeare from Christ 860. As for the conjecture which I find in some Cosmographers , that the Russe nation borrowed the name of the people called R●xellani , and were the very same nation with them , it is without all good probabilitie , both in respect of the etymologie of the word , ( which is very far fet ) and especially for the seat and dwelling of that people , which was betwixt the two rivers of Tanais and Boristhenes ( as Strabo reporteh ) quite another way from the countrey of Russia . When it bare the name of Sarmatia , it was divided into two chief parts : the White and the Black. The White Sarmatia was all that part that lieth towards the North , and on the side of Liefland : as the Provinces now called Duyna , Vagha , Ustic , Vologda , Cargapolia , Novogradia , &c. whereof Novograd velica was the Metropolis or chief citie . Black Sarmatia was all that countrey that lieth Southward , towards the Euxin , or Black Sea : as the dukedome of Volodemer , of Mosko , Rezan , &c. Some have thought that the name of Sarmatia was first taken from one Sarmates , whom Moses and Josephus call Asarmathes , sonne to Joktan , and nephew to Heber , of the posteritie of Sem. But this seemeth to be nothing but a conjecture taken out of the likenesse of the name Asarmathes . For the dwelling of all Joktans posteritie is described by Moses to have been betwixt Mescha or Masius ( an hill of the Amonites ) and Sephace , near to the river Euphrates . Which maketh it very unlikely that Asarmathes should plant any colonies so farre off in the North & Northwest countries . It is bounded Northward by the Lappes and the North Ocean : On the Southside by the Tartars called Chrims . Eastward they have the Nagaian Tartar , that possesseth all the countrey on the Eastside of Volgha , towards the Caspian sea . On the West and Southwest border lie Lituania , Livonia , and Polonia . The whole countrey , being now reduced under the government of one , containeth these chief Provinces or Shires : Volodemer ( which beareth the first place in the Emperours style , because their house came of the Dukes of that countrey ) Mosko , Nisnovogrod , Plesko , Smolensko , Novogrod velica , ( or Novogrod of the low countrey ) Rostove , Yaruslave , Bealozera , Bezan , Duyna , Cargapolia , Meschora , Vagha , Ustug● , Ghaletsa . These are the naturall shires pertaining to Russia , but farre greater and larger then the shires of England , though not so well peopled . The other countreys or provinces which the Russe Emperours ●…ve gotten perforce added of late to ●…ir other dominion , are these which ●…low . Twerra , Youghoria , Permia , 〈…〉 , Boulghoria , Chernigo , Oudo●… , O●doria , Condora , with a great 〈◊〉 of Siberia : where the people , 〈…〉 they be not naturall Russes , ●…ey the Emperour of Russia , and ●…uled by the laws of his countrey , 〈◊〉 customes and taxes as his ●…le do . Besides these he hath und●…m the kingdomes of Cazan and ●…acan , gotten by conquest not lon●… . As for all his possession in 〈…〉 ( to the number of 30. great●…ns and more ) with Narve and 〈…〉 in Livonia , they are quite gone , being surprised of late years by the kings of Poland and Sweden . These Shires and Provinces are reduced all into foure Jurisdictions , which they call Chetfyrds ( that is ) Tetrarchies or Fourth parts , whereof we are to speak in the title or chapter concerning the Provinces and their manner of government . The whole countrey is of great length and breadth . From the North to the South ( if you measure from Cola to Astracan which bendeth somewhat Eastward ) it reacheth in length about 4260 verst or miles . Not withstanding the Emperour of Russia ha●… more territorie Northward , farre beyond Cola , unto the river of Tromschua , that runneth a 1000. verst , wel nigh beyond Pechinga , near to ward house , but not intire nor clearly limited , by reason of the kings of Sweden and Denmark , that have divers towns there as well as the Russe , plotted together the one with the other , every one of them claiming the whole of those North parts as his own right . The breadth ( if you go from that part of his territorie that lieth farthest Westward on the Narve side , to the parts of Siberia eastward , where the Emperour hath his garrisons ) is 4400. verst or thereabouts . A verst ( by their reckoning ) is a 1000 paces , yet lesse by one quarter then an English mile . If the whole dominion of the Russe Emperour were all habitable , and peopled in all places , as it is in some , he would either hardly hold it all within one regiment , or be overmightie for all his neighbour Princes . CHAP. II. of the Soil and Climate . THe soil of the countrey for the most part is of a slight sandie mould , yet very much different one place from another for the yield of such things as grow out of the earth . The countrey Northwards towards the parts of S. Nicholas and Cola , and Northeast towards Siberia , is all very barren , and full of desert woods , by reason of the climate , and extremitie of the cold in winter-time . So likewise along the river Volgha , betwixt the countreys of Cazan and Astracan , where ( notwithstanding the soil is very fruitfull ) it is all unhabited , saving that upon the river Volgha on the westside the Emperour hath some few castles with garisons in them . This happeneth by means of the Chrim Tartar , that will neither himself plant towns to dwell there ( living a wild and vagrant life ) nor suffer the Russe ( that is farre off with the strength of his countrey ) to people those parts . From Vologda ( which lieth almost 1700. verst from the port of S. Nicholas ) down towards Mosko , and so towards the south part that bordereth upon the Chrim ( which containeth the like space of 1700. verst or thereabouts ) is a very fruitfull and pleasant countrey , yielding pasture and corn , with woods and waters in very great plentie . The like is betwixt Rezan ( that lieth Southeast from Mosko ) to Novograd and Vobsko , that reacheth furthest towards the Northwest . So betwixt Mosko and Smolensko ( that lieth Southwest towards Lituania ) is a very fruitfull and pleasant soil . The whole countrey differeth ver● 〈…〉 from it self by reason of th● yeare : so that a man would-marvel to see the great alteration and difference betwixt the winter and the summer Rus●…a . The whole countrey in the winter lieth under snow , which falleth continually , and is sometime of a yard or two thick , but greater towards the North. The rivers and other waters are frozen up a yard or more thick , how swift or broad soever they be . And this continueth commonly five moneths , viz. from the beginning of November till towards the end of March , what time the snow beginneth to melt . So that it would breed a frost in a man to look abroad at that time , and see the winter face of that countrey . The sharpnesse of the aire you may judge of by this , for that water dropped down , or cast up into the aire , congealeth into ice before it come to the ground . In the extremitie of winter , if you hold a pewter dish or pot in your hand , or any other metall ( except in some chamber where their warm stoves be ) your fingers will frieze fast unto it , and draw off the skinne at he parting . When you passe out of a ●arm room into a cold , you shall sen●ibly feel your breath to wax stark , and even stifling with the cold● as you draw it in and out . Divers not onely that travel abroad , but in the very markets and streets of their towns are mortally pinched and killed withall : so that you shall see many drop down in the streets , many travellers brought into the towns sitting dead and stiff in their fleds . Divers lose their noses , the tips of their ears , and the balls of their cheeks , their toes , feet , &c. Many times ( when the Winter is very hard and extreme ) the bears and wolves issue by troups out of the woods driven by hunger , and enter the villages , tearing and ravening all they can find , so that the inhabitants are fain to flee for safeguard of their lives . And yet in the Summer-time you shall see such a new hue and face of a countrey , the woods ( for the most part which are all of firre and birch ) so fresh and so sweet , the pastures and medows so green and well grown ( and that upon the sudden ) such varietie of flowers , such noise of birds ( specially of Nightingales , that seem to be more loud and of a more variable note then in other countries ) that a man shall not lightly travell in a more pleasant countrie . And this fresh and speedy growth of the spring there seemeth to proceed from the benefit of the snow ; which all the winter-time being spread over the whole countrey as a white robe , and keeping it warm from the rigour of the frost , in the spring time ( when the sunne waxeth warm , and dissolveth it into water ) doth so throughly drench and soke the ground , that is somewhat of a slight and sandie mould , and then shineth so hotly upon it again , that it draweth the herbs and plants forth in great plenty and varietie in a very short time . As the winter exceedeth in cold , so the summer inclineth to overmuch heat , specially in the moneths of June , July , and August , being much warmer then the summer-aire in England . The countrie throughout is very well watered with springs , rivers , and ozeraes or lakes . Wherein the providence of God is to be noted , for that much of the countrey being so farre inland , as that some part lieth a 1000. miles and more every way from any sea , yet it is served with fair rivers , and that in very great number , that emptying themselves one into another run all into the sea . Their lakes are many and large , some of 60. 80. 100. and 200. miles long , with breadth proportionate . The cheif rivers are these ; 1. Volgha , that hath his head or spring at the root of an Aldertree , about 200. verst above Yaruslave , and groweth so big by the encrease of other rivers by that time it cometh thither , that it is broad an English mile and more , and so runneth into the Caspian sea , about 2800. verst or miles of length . The next is Boristhenes ( now called Neper ) that divideth the countrey from Lituania , and falleth into the Euxin sea . The third Tanais or Don ( the ancient bounder betwixt Europe and Asia ) that taketh his head out of Rezan Ozera , and so running through the countrey of the Chrim Tartar , falleth into the great sea lake or mear , called Maeotis , by the Citie of Azou . By this river ( as the Russe reporteth ) you may passe from their citie Mosko to Constantinople , and so into all those parts of the world by water , drawing your boat ( as their manner is ) over a little Isthmus or narrow slip of land , a few versts overthwart . Which was proved not long since by an Ambassadour sent to Constantinople , who passed the river of Moskua , and so into another called Ocka , whence he drew his boat over into Tanais , and thence passed the whole way by water . The fourth is called Duyna , many hundred miles long , that falleth Northward into the Bay of Saint Nicholas , and hath great Alabaster rocks on the banks towards the sea-side . The fifth Duna , that emptieth into the Baltick sea by the town Riga . The sixth Onega , that falleth into the Bay at Solovetsko , 90. verst from the port of S. Nicholas . This river below the town Cargapolia meeteth with the river Volock , that falleth i●… the Finland sea by the town Yama . So that from the port of S. Nicholas into the Finland sea , and so into the Sound , you may passe all by water , as hath been tryed by the Russe . The seaventh Suchana , that floweth into Duyna , and so into the North sea . The eighth Ocka , that fetcheth his head from the borders of the Chrim , and streameth into Volgha . The ninth Moskua , that runneth through the citie Mosko , and giveth it the name . There is Wichida also , a very large and long river , that riseth out of Permia , and falleth into Volgha . All these are rivers of very large streams , the least to be compared to the Thames in bignesse , and in length farre more , besides divers other . The Pole at Mosko is 55. degrees 10. minutes . At the port of S. Nicholas towards the North 63. degrees and 50. minutes . CHAP. III. The native commodities of the Countrey . FOr kinds of fruits , they have apples , pears , plums , cherries , red and black ( but the black , wild ) a deen like a musk-millian , but more sweet and pleasant , cucumbers and goords ( which they call Arbouse ) rasps , strawberries , and hurtilberries , with many other berries in great quantitie in every wood and hedge . Their kinds of grain are wheat , rie , barley , oats , pease , buckway , psnytha , that in taste is somewhat like to rice . Of all these grains the countrey yieldeth very sufficient with an overplus quantitie , so that wheat is sold sometime for two alteens or ten pence starling the Chetfird , which maketh almost three English bushels . Their rye is sowed before the winter , all their other grain in the spring time , and for the most part in May. The Permians and some other that dwell farre North , and in desert places , are served from the parts that lie more Southward , and are forced to make bread sometimes of a kind of root ( called Vaghnoy ) and of the middle rine of the firre tree . If there be any dearth ( as they accounted this last yeare , An. 1588. wheat and rie being at 13. alteens , or 5. shillings 5. pence sterling the Chetfird ) the fault is rather in the practice of their Nobilitie that use to engrosse it , then in the countrey it self . The native commodities of the countrey ( wherewith they serve both their own turns , and send much abroad to the great enriching of the Emperour and his people ) are many and substantiall . First , furres of all sorts . Wherein the providence of God is to be noted , that provideth a naturall remedie for them to help the naturall inconvenience of their countrey by the cold of the climate . Their chief furres are these , Black fox , Sables , Lusernes , Dunne fox , Martrones , Gurnestalles or Armins , Lasets or Miniver , Bever , Wulverins , the skin of a great water Rat that smelleth naturally like musk , Calaber or Gray squirrel , Red squirrel , Red and white fox . Besides the great quantitie spent within the countrey ( the people being clad all in furres the whole Winter ) there are transported out of the countrey some years by the merchants of Turkie , Persia , Bougharia , Georgia , Armenia , and some other of Christendome 10. the value of foure or five hundred thousand rubbels , as I have heard of the Merchants . The best Sable furre groweth in the countrie of Pechora , Momgosorkoy and Obderskoy ; the worser sort in Siberia , Perm , and other places . The black fox and red come out of Siberia , white and dunne from Pechora , whence also come the white wolf , and white bear skin . The best Wulverin also thence , and from Perm . The best Martrons are from Siberia , Cadam , Morum , Perm , and Cazan . Lyserns , Minever , and Armins , the best are out of Gallets , and Ouglites , many from Novogred , and Perm . The beaver of the best sort breedeth in Murmonskey by Cola. Other common furres , and most of these kinds grow in many , and some in all parts of the countrey . The second commoditi●… of Wax , whereof hath been shipped into 〈…〉 in countreys ( as I have heard i● reported by those that best ●now it ) the summe of 50000. pood yearly , every pood containing 40. pound , but now about 10000. pood a yeare . The third is their Hony , whereof besides an exceeding great quantitie spent in their ordinary drinks ( which is ●ead of all sorts ) and their other uses , some good quantitie is carried out of the countrey . The chief increase of honie is in Merdua and Cadam near to the Cheremissen Tartar : much out of Severskoy . Rezan , M●rum , Cazan , Derogobose , and Vasma . Fourthly , of Tallow they afford a great weight for transportation : not onely for that their countrey hath very much good ground apt for pasturage of cattel , but also by reason of their many Lents and other Fasts , and partly because their great men use much wax for their lights , the poorer and meaner sort birch dried in their stoves , and cut into long sh●vers , which they call Luchineos . Of tallow there hath been shipped out of the realm a few years since about a 100000. pood yearly , now not past 30000. or thereabouts . The best yield of tallow is in the parts and territories of Smolensko , Yaruslave , Ouglits , Novogrod , and Vologda , Otfer , and Gorodet skey . Another principall commoditie is their Losh and Cow hide . Their Losh or Buff hide is very fair and large : Their bull and cow hide ( for oxen they make none , neither yet weather ) is of a small sise . There hath been transported by merchants strangers some years a 100000 hides . Now it is decreased to a 30000. or thereabouts . Besides great store of goats skinnes , whereof great numbers are shipped out of the countrey . The largest kind of Losh or Buff breedeth about Rostove , Wichida , Novogrod , Morum , and Perm ; the lesser sort , within the kingdome of Cazan . Another very great and principall commoditie is their Trane oyl , drawn out of the Seal fish . Where it will not be impertinent to shew the manner of their hunting the Seal , which they make this oyl of , which is in this sort : Toward the end of Summer ( before the frost begin ) they go down with their boats into the Bay of S Nicholas , to a cape called Cuscenesse or Foxnose , where they leave their boats till the next spring tide . When the sunne waxeth warm toward the spring , and yet the ice not melted within the Bay , they return thither again . Then drawing their boats over the sea-ice , they use them for houses to rest and lodge in . There are commonly about 17. or 18. fleet of them , of great large boats , which divide themselves into divers companies , five or six boats in a consort . They that first find the haunt , fire a beacon , which they carrie with them for the nonce . Which being esp●ed by the other companies , by such among them as are appointed of purpose , they come altogether and compasse the Seals round about in a ring , that lie sunning themselves together upon the ice , commonly foure or five thousand in a shole , and so they invade them every man with his club in his hand . If they hit them on the nose , they are soon killed : If on the sides or back they bear out the blow , and many times so catch and hold down the club with their teeth by main force , that the partie is forced to call for help to his fellows . The manner of the Seals is , when they see themselves beset , to gather all close together in a throng or plump , to sway down the ice , and to break it ( if they can ) which so bendeth the ice , that many times it taketh the sea-water upon it , and maketh the hunters to wade a foot or more deep . After the slaughter , when they have killed what they can , they fall to sharing every boat his part in equall portions : and so they flay them , taking from the body the skin , and the lard or fat with all that cleaveth to the skin . This they take with them , leaving the bodies behind , and so go to shore . Where they dig pits in the ground of a fathom and an half deep or thereabout , and so taking the fat or lard off from the skin they throw it into the pit , and cast in among it hot burning stones to melt it withall . The uppermost and purest is sold and used to oyl wool for cloth , the gro●… , ( that is of a red colour ) they sell to make sope . Likewise of Iokary or Cavery , a great quantitie is made upon the river of Volgha out of the fish called Bellougina , the Sturgeon , the Severiga and the Sterledey . Whereof the most part is shipped by French and Netherlandish merchants for Italie and Spain , some by English merchants . The next is of Flax and Hemp , whereof there hath been shipped ( as I have heard merchants say ) at the port of Narve a great part of a 100 ships small and great yearly . Now , not past five . The reason of this abating and decrease of this and other commodities , that were wont to be transported in a greater quantitie , is the shutting up of the port of the Narve towards the Finland sea , which now is in the hands and possession of the Sweden . Likewise the stoppage of the passage overland . By the way of Smolensko , and Pletsko , by reason of their wa●… with the Polonian , which causeth the people to be lesse provident in maintaining and gathering these and the like commodities , for that they lack sales . Partly also for that the Merchants and Mousicks ( for so they call the common sort of people ) are very much discouraged by many heavy and intolerable exactions that of late time have been imposed upon them , no man accounting that which he hath to be sure his own . And therefore regard not to lay up any thing , or to have it beforehand , for that it causeth them many times to be flieced and spoiled not onely of their goods , but also of their lives . For the growth of flax the province of Vo●…ko and the countrey about is the chief and onely place : For hemp , Smolensko , Dorogobose and Vasma . The countrey besides maketh great store of salt . Their best salt is made at Stararouse in very great quantitie , where they have great store of salt wels , about 250. verst from the sea . At Astracan salt is made naturally by the sea-water , that casteth it up into great hills , and so it is digged down , and carried away by the merchants and others that will fetch it from thence . They pay to the Emperour for acknowledgement or custome 3. d. Russe upon every hundred weight . Besides these two , they make salt in many other places of the Realm , as in Perm , Wichida , Totma , Kenitsma , Solovetsky , Ocona , Bombasey , and Nonocks , all out of salt-pits , save at Solovetskey , which lieth near to the sea . Likewise of tarre they make a great quantitiy out of their firre trees in the countrey of Duyna and Smolensko , whereof much is sent abroad . Besides these ( which are all good and substantiall commodities ) they have divers other of smaller account , that are naturall and proper to that countrey : as the fish tooth which they call Ribazuba , which is used both among themselves , and the Persians and Bougharians that fetch it from thence , for beads , knives , and sword hasts of Noblemen and gentlemen , and for divers other uses . Some use the powder of it against poyson , as the Unicorns horn . The fish that weareth it is called a Morse , and is caught about Pechora . These fish teeth some of them are almost two foot of length , and weigh eleven or twelve pound apiece . In the province of Corelia , and about the river Duyna towards the North sea , there groweth a soft rock which they call Stude . This they cut into pieces , and so tear it into thin flakes , which naturally it is apt for , and so use it for glasse-lanthorns and such like . It giveth both inwards and outwards a clearer light then glasse , and for this respect is better then either glasse or horn ; for that it neither breaketh like glasse , nor yet will burn like the lanthorn . Saltpeter they make in many places , as at Oug●ites , Yaruslave and Ustug , and some small store of brimstone upon the river Volgha , but want skill to refine it . Their iron is somewhat brittle , but a great weight of it is made in Corelia . Cargapolia , and Ustug Thelesna . Other myne they have none growing within the Realm . Their beasts of strange kinds are the Losh , the Ollen , the will Horse , the Bear , the Wolvering , or wood Dog , the Lysern , the Beaver , the Sable , the Martron , the black and dun Fox , the white Bear towards the sea-coast of Pechora , the Gurnstale , the Laset or Minever . They have a kind of Squirrel that hath growing on the pinion of the shoulder-bone a long tuft of hair , much like unto feathers , with a farre broader tail then have any other Squirrels , which they move and shake as they leap from tree to tree much like unto a wing . They skise a large space , and seem for to flie withall ; and therefore they call them Letach Vechshe , that is , the flying Squirrels . Their Hares and Squirrels in summer are of the same colour with ours : in winter the Hare changeth her cote into milk white , the Squirrel into gray , whereof cometh the Calaber . They have fallow Deer , the roe-buck , and goats very great store . Their horses are but small , but very swift and hard ; they travell them unshod both winter and summer , without all regard of pace . Their sheep are but small , and bear course and harsh wooll . Of fowl , they have divers of the principall kinds : First , great store of Hawks , the Eagle , the Gerfaulcon , the Slightfaulcon , the Goshawk , the Tassel , the Sparhawk , &c. But the principall Hawk that breedeth in the countrey is counted the Gerfaulcon . Of other fowls their principall kinds are the Swanne tame and wild ( whereof they have great store ) the Stork , the Crane , the Tedder , of the colour of a Feasant , but farre bigger , and liveth in the firre-woods . Of Feasant and Partridge they have very great plentie . An Owl there is of a very great bignesse , more ugglie to behold then the Owls of this countrey , with a broad face , and ears much like unto a man. For fresh-water fish besides the common sorts ( as Carp , Pikes , Pearch , Tench , Roach , &c. ) they have divers kinds very good & delicate : as the Bellouga , or 〈◊〉 of 4. or 5. ●●ns long , the 〈◊〉 or Sturgeon , the Severign , and 〈…〉 somewhat in 〈…〉 like to the 〈◊〉 , but not so thick 〈◊〉 long . These 4. kinds of fish breed in the Volgha , and are caught in great plenty , and served thence into the whole Realm for a great food . Of the roes of these foure kinds they make very great store of Icary or Caveary as was said before . They have besides these that breed in the Volgha a fish called the Riba bela , or white Salmon , which they account more delicate then they do the red Salmon : whereof also they have exceeding great plentie in the rivers Northward , as in Duyna , the river of Cola , &c. In the Ozera , or lake near a town called Perislave , not farre from the Mosko , they have a small fish which they call the freshherring , of the fashion and somewhat of the taste of a sea-herring . Their chief towns for fish are , Yaruslave , Bealezera , N●v●grod , Astracan , and Cazan : which all yield a large custome to the Emperour every year for their trades of fishing , which they practise in summer , but send it fro●en in the winter-time into all parts of the Realm . CHAP. IIII. The chief cities of Russia . THe chief cities of Russia are , Mosko , Novograd , Rostove , Volodomer , Plesko , Smolensko , Yaruslave , Perislave , Nisnovograd , Vologda , Ustiuck , Golmigroe , Cazan , Astracan , Cargapolia , Columna . The citie of Mosko is supposed to be of great antiquitie , though the first founder be unknown to the Russe . It seemeth to have taken the name from the river that runneth on the one side of the town . Berosus the Chaldean in his fifth book telleth that Nimrod ( whom other profane stories call Saturn ) sent Assyrius , Medus , Moscus , and Magog into Asia to plant Colonies there , and that Moscus , planted both in Asia and Europe . Which may make some probability that the citie , or rather the river whereon it is built , took the denomination from this Moscus : the rather because of the climate or situation , which is in the very furthest part and list of Europe , bordering upon Asia : The citie was much enlarged by one Evan or John , sonne to Daniel , that first changed his title of Duke into King , though that honour continued not to his posteritie ; the rather because he was invested into it by the Popes Legate , who at that time was Innocentius the fourth about the year 1246. which was very much misliked by the Russe people being then a part of the Eastern or Greek Church . Since that time the name of this citie hath grown more famous , and better known unto the world : insomuch that not onely the province but the whole countrey of Russia is termed by some by the name of Moscovia the metropolite citie . The form of this citie is in a manner round , with three strong walls , circuling the one within the other , and streets lying between , whereof the inmost wall , and the buildings closed within it ( lying safest as the heart within the bodie , fenced and watered with the river Moskua , that runneth close by it ) is all accounted the Emperours castle . The number of houses ( as I have heard ) through the whole citie ( being reckoned by the Emperour a little before it was fired by the Chrim ) was 41500. in all . Since the Tartar besieged and fired the town ( which wa● in the yeare 1571. ) there lieth waste of it a great breadth of ground , which before was well set and planted with buildings , specially that part on the Southside of Moskua , built not long before by Basibius the Emperour for his garison of souldiers , to whom he gave priviledge to drink Mead and Beer at the drie or prohibited times , when other Russes may drink nothing but water ; and for that cause called this new citie by the name of Nal●t , that is , skinck or poure in . So that now the citie of Mosko is not much bigger then the citie of London . The next in greatnesse , and in a manner as large , is the citie Novograde : where was committed ( as the Russe saith ) the memorable warre , so much spoke of in Stories , of the Scythian servants , that took arms against their masters , which they report in this sort , viz. That the Boiarens or Gentlemen of Novograde and the territorie about ( which onely are souldiers after the discipline of those countreus ) had warre with the Tartars . Which being well performed and ended by them , they returned homewards . Where they understood by the way that their Chol●pey or bondslaves , whom they left at home , had in their absence possessed their towns , lands , houses , wives , and all . At which news being somewhat amazed , and yet disdaining the villanie of their servants , they made the more speed home : and so not farre from Novograde met them in warlike manner marching against them . Whereupon advising what was best to be done , they agreed all to set upon them with no other shew of weapon but with their horse-whips ( which as their manner is every man rideth withall ) to put them in remembrance of their servile condition , thereby to terrifie them , and abate their courage . And so marching on and lashing altogether with their whips in their hands they gave the onset : which seemed so terrible in the ears of their villains , and stroke such a sense into them of the smart of the whip which they had felt before , that they fled altogether like sheep before the drivers . In memorie of this victorie the Novogradians ever since have stamped their coin ( which they call a dingee Novogrod k●y , currant through all Russia ) with the figure of a horseman shaking a whip aloft in his hand . These two cities exceed the rest in greatnesse . For strength their chief towns are Vobsko , Smolensko , Cazan and Astracan , as lying upon the borders . But for situation Jaruslave farre exceedeth the rest . For besides the commodities that the soil yieldeth of pasture and corn , it lieth upon the famous river Volgha , and looketh over it from a high bank very fair and stately to behold , whereof the town take●h the name . For Jaruslave in that tongue signifieth as much as a fair or famous bank . In this town ( as may be guessed by the name ) dwelt the Russe king Ulademir sirnamed Jaruslave , that married the daughter of Harald king of England , by mediation of Sueno the Dane , as is noted in the Danish storie about the year 1067. The other towns have nothing that is greatly memorable , save many ruines within their walls . Which sheweth the decrease of the Russe people under this government . The streets of their cities and towns in stead of paving are planked with firre-trees , plained and laid even close the one to the other . Their houses are of wood without any lime or stone , built very close and warm with firre-trees plained and piled one upon another . They are fastened together with dents or notches at every corner , and so clasped fast together . Betwixt the trees or timber they thrust in mosse ( whereof they gather plentie in their woods ) to keep out the aire . Every house hath a pair of stairs that lead up into the chambers out of the yard of street after the Scottish manner . This building seemeth farre better for their countrey , then that of stone and brick ; as being colder and more dampish then their wooden houses , specially of firre , that is a drie and warm wood , whereof the providence of God hath given them such store , as that you may build a fair house for twentie or thirtie rubbels or little more , where wood is most scant . The greatest inconvenience of their wooden building is the aptnesse for firing , which happeneth very oft and in very fearfull sort , by reason of the drinesse and fatnesse of the firre , that being once fired , burneth like a torch , and is hardly quenched till all be burnt up . CHAP. V. Of the house or stock of the Russe Emperours . THe sirname of the imperiall house of Russia , is called Beala . It took the originall ( as is supposed ) from the Kings of Hungarie . Which may seem the more probable for that the Hungarian Kings many years ago have born that name : as appeareth by Bonfinius and other Stories written of that countrey . For about the year 1059. mention is made of one Beala that succeeded his brother Andreas , who reduced the Hungarians to the Christian faith from whence they were fallen by Atheisme and Turkish perswasion before . The second of that name was called Beala the blind , after whom succeeded divers of the same name . That their ancestrie came not of the Russe nation , Ivan Vasilowich father to this Emperour would many times boast , disdaining ( as should seem ) to have his progenie derived from the Russe , bloud . As namely to an English man his goldsmith , that had received bullion of him to make certain plate , whom the Emperour commanded to look well to his weight , For my Russes ( said he ) ar● thieves all . Whereat the workman looking upon the Emperour , began to smile . The Emperour , being of quick conceit , charged him to tell him what he smiled at . If your Majestie will pardon me ( quoth the goldsmith ) I will tell you . Your highnesse said that the Russes were all thieves , and forgot in the mean while that your self was a Russe . I thought so ( quoth the Emperour ) but thou art deceived . For I am no Russe , my ancestours were Germanes ( for so they account of the Hungarians to be part of the Germane nation though indeed they come of the Hunnes , that invaded those countreys and rested in those parts of Pannonia , now called Hungary . How they aspired to the Dukedome of Volodemer ( which was their first degree , and ingrafting into Russia ) and whether it were by conquest , or by marriage , or by what other means , I could not learn any certaintie among them . That from these beginnings of a small Dukedome ( that bare notwithstanding an absolute government with it , as at that time did also the other Shires or Provinces of Russia ) this house of Beala spread it self forth , and aspired by degrees to the monarchie of the whole countrey , is a thing well known , and of very late memorie . The chief of that house that advanced the stock , and enlarged their dominions , were the three last that reigned before this Emperour , to wit , Juan , Basileus , and Juan father to the other that reigneth at this time . Whereof the first that took unto him the name and title of Emperour , was Basileus father to Juan , and grandfather to this man. For before that time they were contented to be called great dukes of Mosko . What hath been done by either of these three , and how much they have added to their first estate by conquest or otherwise , may be seen in the chapter of their colonies or purchases perforce . For the continuance of the race , this house of Beala at this present is in like case , as are many of the greatest houses of Christendome , viz. the whole stock and race concluded in one , two , or some few of the bloud . For besides the Emperour that now is , who hath no child ( neither is like ever to have for ought that may be conjectured by the constitution of his body , and the barennesse of his wife after so many years marriage ) there is but one more viz. a child of six or seven years old , in whom resteth all the hope of the succession , and the posteritie of that house . As for the other brother that was eldest of the three , and of the best towardnesse , he died of a blow given him by his father upon the head in his furie with his walking staff ▪ or ( as some say ) of a thrust with the prong of it driven deep into his head . That he meant him no such mortall harm when he gave him the blow may appear by his mourning and passion after his sons death , which never left him till it brought him to the grave . Wherein may be marked the justice of God , that punished his delight in shedding of bloud with this murder of his sonne by his own hand , and so ended his dayes and tyrannie , together with the murdering of himself by extreme grief , for this his unhappie and unnaturall fact . The Emperours younger brother of six or seven years old ( as was said before ) is kept in a remote place from the Mosko , under the tuition of his mother & her kindred of the house of the Nagaies : yet not safe ( as I have heard ) from attempts of making away by practice of some that aspire to the succession , if this Emperour die without any issue . The nurse that tasted before him of certain meat ( as I have heard ) died presently . That he is naturall sonne to Ivan Vasilowich , the Russe people warrant it by the Fathers qualitie that beginneth to appear already in his tender years . He is delighted ( they say ) to see sheep and other cattel killed , and to look on their throats while they are bleeding ( which commonly children are afraid to behold ) and to beat geese and hens with a staff till he see them lie dead . Besides these of the male kind , there is a widow that hath right in the succession , sister to the old Emperour , and aunt to this man , sometime wife to Magnus Duke of Hol●t , brother to the king of Denmark , by whom she had one daughter . This woman since the death of her husband hath been allured again into Russia , by some that love the succession better then herself , which appeareth by the sequele . For herself with her daughter so soon as they were returned into Russia were thrust into a Nunnerie , where her daughter died this last year while I was in the countrey , of no naturall disease as was supposed . The mother remaineth still in the Nunnerie , where ( as I have heard ) she bewa●●eth herself , and curseth the time when she returned into Russia , entised with the hope of marriage , and other fair promises in the Emperours name : Thus it standeth with the imperiall stock of Russia of the house of Beala , which is like to determine in those that now are , and to make a conversion of the Russe estate . If it be into a government of some better temper & milder constitution , it will be happy for the poore people that are now oppressed with intolerable servitude . CHAP. VI. Of the manner of crowning or inauguration of the Russe Emperours . THe solemnities used at the Russe Emperours coronation are on this manner . In the great Church of Precheste ( or our Lady ) within the Emperours castle is erected a stage , whereon standeth a scrine that beareth upon it the Imperiall cap and robe of very rich stuff . When the day of the Inauguration is come , there resort thither , first the Patriarch with the Metropolitanes , Archbishops , Bishops , Abbots , and Priors , all richly clad in their Pontificalibus : Then e●●e● the Deacons with the quire of s●●gers . Who so soon as the Emperour setteth foot into the Church , begin to sing , Many years may live noble Theodore Juanowich , &c. whereunto the Patriarch and Metropolite with the rest of the Clergie answer with a certain Hymn , in form of a prayer , singing it all together with a great noise . The hymn being ended , the Patriarch with the Emperour mount up the stage , where standeth a seat ready for the Emperour . Whereupon the Patriarch willeth him to sit down , and then placing himself by him upon another seat provided for that purpose , boweth down his head towards the ground , and saith this prayer , Oh Lord God , King of Kings , Lord of Lords , which by thy prophet Samuel didst choose thy servant David , and anoint him for King over thy people Israel , hear now our prayers , and look from thy sanctuarie upon this thy servant Theodore , whom thou hast chosen and exalted for King oven these thy holy Nations , anoint him with the oyl of gladnesse , protect him by thy power , put upon his head a crown of gold and pretious stones , give him length of dayes , place him in the seat of Justice , strengthen his arm , make subject unto him all the barbarous nations . Let thy sear be in his whole heart , turn him from an evil faith , and from all errour , and shew him the salvation of thy holy and universall Church , that he may judge thy people with justice , and protect the children of the poore , and finally attain everlasting life . This prayer he speaketh with a low voice , and then pronounceth aloud , All praise and power to God the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost . The prayer being ended , he commandeth certain Abbots to reach the imperiall robe and cap : which is done very decently , and with great solemnitie , the Patriarch withall pronouncing aloud , Peace be unto all . And so he beginneth another prayer to this effect , Bow your selves together with us , and pray to him that reigneth over all . Preserve him ( O Lord ) under thy holy protection , keep him that he may do good and holy things , let justice shine sorth in his dayes , that we may live quietly without strife and malice . This is pronounced somewhat softly by the Patriarch , whereto he addeth again aloud , Thou art the King of the whole world , and the Savioun of our souls , to thee the Father , Sonne and holy Ghost , be all praise for ever , and ever . Amen . Then putting on the robe and cap , he blesseth the Emperour with the signe of the crosse , saying withall , In the name of the Father , the Sinne , and the holy Ghost . The like is done by the Metropolites , Archbishops , and Bishops : who all in their order come to the chair , and one after another blesse the Emperour with their two forefingers . Then is said by the Patriarch another prayer , that beginneth , O most holy virgin mother of God , &c. After which a Deacon pronounceth with an high loud voice , Many years to noble Theodore , good honourable , beloved of God , great Duke of Volodemer , of Mosko , Emperour and Monarch of all Russia , &c. Whereto the other Priests & Deacons that stand somewhat farre off by the altar or table answer singing , Many years , many years , to the noble Theodore . The same note is taken up by the Priests and Deacons , that are placed at the right and left side of the Church , and then all together they chaunt and thunder out , singing , Many years to the noble Theodore , good , honourable , beloved of God , great Duke of Volodemer , Mosko , Emperour of all Russia , &c. These solemnities being ended , first cometh the Patriarch with the Metropolites , Archbishops , and bishops , then the Nobilitie , and the whole companie in their order , to do homage to the Emperour , bending down their heads and knocking them at his feet to the very ground . The style wherewith he is invested at his Coronation runneth after this manner . THeodore Juanowich , by the grace of God great Lord and Emperour of all Russia , great Duke of Volodemer , Mosko , and Novograd , King of Cazan , King of Astracan , Lord of Plesko , and great Duke of Smolensko , of Tweria , ●oughoria , Permia , Vadska , Bulghoria , and others , Lord and great Duke of Novograd of the Low-countrey , of Chernigo , Rezan , Polotskoy , Rostove , Yaruflaveley , Bealozera , Liefland , Oudoria , Obdoria , and Condensa , Commander of all Siberia , and of the North parts , and Lord of many other Countreys , &c. This style containeth in it all the Emperours Provinces , and setteth forth his greatnesse . And therefore they have a great delight and pride in it , forcing not onely their own people but also strangers ( that have any matter to deliver to the Emperour by speech or writing ) to repeat the whole form from the beginning to the end . Which breedeth much cavill , and sometimes quarrell betwixt them and the Tartar , and Poland Ambassadours : who refuse to call him Czar , that is Emperour , and to repeat the other parts of his long style . My self , when I had audience of the Emperour , thought good to salute him onely with thus much , viz. Emperour of all Russia , great Duke of Volodemer , Mosko and Novograd , King of Cazan , King of Astracan . The rest I omitted of purpose , because I knew they gloried to have their style appear to be of a larger volume then the Queens of England . But this was taken in so ill part , that the Chancellour ( who then attended the Emperour , with the rest of the Nobilitie ) with a loud chafing voice called still upon me to say out the rest . Whereto I answered , that the Emperours style was very long , and could not so well be remembred by strangers ; that I had repeated so much of it , as might shew that I gave honour to the rest , &c. But all would not serve till I commanded my Interpreter to say it all out . CHAP. VII . The State or form of their Government . THe manner of their government is much after the Turkish fashion , which they seem to imitate as near as the countrie and reach of their capacities in politick affairs will give them leave to do . The State and form of their government is plain tyrannicall , as applying all to the behoof of the Prince , and that after a most open and barbarous manner , as may appear by the Sophismata or secrets of their government afterwards set down , aswell for the keeping of the Nobilitie and Commons in an under-proportion , and farre uneven ballance in their severall degrees , as also in their impositions and exactions , wherein they exceed all just 〈◊〉 , without any regard of Nobilitie 〈◊〉 People Further then it giveth 〈◊〉 Nobilitie a kind of unjust and 〈◊〉 measured 〈◊〉 to command and 〈◊〉 upon the 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 sort of people in all parts of the realm wheresoever they come , specially in the place where their lands lie , or , where they are appointed by the Emperour to govern under him ; also to the Commons some small contentment , in that they passe over their lands by descent of inheritance to whether sonne they will , which commonly they do after our Gavelkind , and dispose of their goods by gift or testament without any controlement . Wherein notwithstanding both Nobilitie and Commons are but storers for the Prince , all running in the end into the Emperours coffers : as may appear by the practice of enriching his treasurie , and the manner of exactions set down in the title of his customes and revenues . Concerning the principall points and matters of State wherein the Sovereigntie consisteth , ( as the making and annulling publick of Laws , the making of Magistrates , power to make warre or league with any forein State , to execute or to pardon life , with the right of appeal in all matters , both civil and criminall ) they do so wholly and absolutely pertain to the Emperour , and his Councel under him , as that he may be said to be both the Sovereigne commander and the executioner of all these . For as touching any Law or publick order of the Realm , it is ever determined of before any publick assembly or Parliament be summoned . Where besides his Councel , he hath none other to consult with him of such matters as are concluded beforehand , but onely a few Bishops , Abbots , and Friers : to no other end then to make advantage of the peoples superstitions even against themselves , which think all to be holy and just that passeth with consent of their Bishops and clergie men whatsoever it be . For which purpose the Emperours are content to make much of the corrupt state of the Church , as now it is among them , and to nourish the same by extraordinary favours , and immunities to the Bishops Seas , Abbeys and Frieries : as knowing superstition and false religion best to agree with a tyrannicall state , and to be a speciall means to uphold and maintain the same . Secondly , as touching the publick Offices & Magistracies of the Realm , there is none hereditarie , neither any so great nor so little in that countrey but the bestowing of it is done immediately by the Emperour himself . Insomuch that the very Diacks or Clerks in every head town are for the most part assigned by himself . Notwithstanding , the Emperour that now is ( the better to entend his devotions ) referreth all such matters pertaining to the State wholly to the ordering of his wives brother , the L. Borris Federowich Godonoe . Thirdly , the like is to be said of the jurisdiction concerning matters judiciall , specially such as concern life and death . Wherein there is none that hath any authoritie or publick jurisdiction that goeth by descent , or is held by charter , but all at the appointment and pleasure of the Emperour , and the same practised by the Judges with such aw and restraint , as that they dare not determine upon any speciall matter , but must referre the same wholly up to the Mosko , to the Emperours Councel . To shew his Sovereigntie over the lives of his subjects , the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich in his walks or progresses , if he had misliked the face or person of any man whom he met by the way , or that looked upon him , would command his head to be struck off ; which was presently done , and the head cast before him . Fourthly ; for the sovereigne appeal & giving of pardons in criminall matters to such as are convicted , it is wholly at the pleasure and grace of the Emperour . Wherein also the Empresse that now is , being a woman of great clemencie , and withall delighting to deal in publick affairs of the Realm ( the rather to supplie the defect of her husband ) doth behave herself after an absolute manner , giving out pardon ( specially on her birth-day and other solemn times ) in her own name , by open proclamation , without any mention at all of the Emperour . Some there have been of late of the ancient Nobilitie that have held divers provinces by right of inheritance with an absolute authoritie and jurisdiction over them , to order and determine all matters within their own precinct without all appeal , or controlment of the Emperour . But this was all annulled and wrung clean from them by Juan Vasilowich father to this Emperour . CHAP. VIII . The manner of holding their Parliaments . THeir highest Court of publick consultation for matter of State is called the Zabore , that is , the Publick Assembly . The states and degrees of persons that are present a their Parliaments , are these in order . 1. The Emperour himself . 2. Some of his Nobilitie , about the number 〈◊〉 twentie , being all of his Councel . 3. Certain of the Clergie men , 〈◊〉 about the same number . As for But ghers or other to represent the co●… munaltie , they have no place them the people being of no better acco●… with them then as servants or bo●… slaves , that are to obey , not to 〈◊〉 laws , nor to know any thing publick matters before they are concluded . The Court of Parliament ( called Zabore ) is held in this manner . The Emperour causeth to be summoned such of his Nobilitie as himself thinketh meet , being ( as was said ) all of his Councel , together with the Patriarch , who calleth his Clergie , to ●it , the two Metropolites , the two Archbishops , with such Bishops , Abbots , and Friers as are of best account and reputation among them . When they are all assembled at the Emperours court , the day is intimated when the session shall begin : Which commonly is upon some friday , for the religion of that day . When the day is come , the Clergie men assemble before at the time and place appointed , which is called the Stollie . And when the Emperour cometh attended by his Nobilitie , they arise all , and meet him in an out room , following their Patriarch , who blesseth the Emperour with his two forefingers , laying them on his forehead and the sides of his face , and then kisseth him on the right side of his breast . So they passe on into their Parliament house , where they sit in this order . The Emperour is enthronized on the one side of the chamber : In the next place not farre from him at a small square table ( that giveth room to twelve persons or thereabouts ) sitteth the Patriarch with the Metropolites and Bishops , and certain of the principall Nobilitie of the Emperours Councel , together with two Diacks or Secretaries ( called Dumnoy dyakey ) that enact that which passeth . The rest place themselves on benches round about the room , every man in his rank after his degree . Then is there propounded by one of the Secretaries ( who representeth the speaker ) the cause of their assembly , and the principall matters that they are to consider of . For to propound bills what every man thinketh good for the publick benefit ( as the manner is in England ) the Russe Parliament alloweth no such custome nor libertie to subjects . The points being opened , the Patriarch with his Clergie men have the prerogative to be first asked their vote or opinion , what they think of the points propounded by the Secretarie . Whereto they answer in order , according to their degrees , but all in one form without any discourse , as having learned their lesson before , that serveth their turns at all Parliaments alike , whatsoever is propounded . Commonly it is to this effect , That the Emperour and his Councell are of great wisdome and experience touching the policies and publick affairs of the Realm , and farre better able to judge what is profitable for the commonwealth then they are , which attend upon the service of God ●●ely , and matters of religion . And therefore it may please them to proceed . That instead of their advise they will aid them with their prayers as their duties and vocations do require , &c. To this or like effect having made their answers every man in his course , up standeth some Abbot or Frier more bold then the r●st ( yet appointed beforehand as a matter of form ) and desireth the Emperour it would please his Majestie to command to be delivered unto them what his Majesties own judgement and determinate pleasure is as touching those matters propounded by his Dyake . Whereto is replyed by the said Secretarie in the Emperours name , That his Highnesse with those of his noble Councell , upon good and sound advise , have found the matters proposed to be very good and necessarie for the commonwealth of his Realm . Notwithstanding , for as much as they are religious men , and know what is right , his Majestie requireth 〈◊〉 godly opinions , yea and their censures too , for the approving or correcting of the said propositions . And therefore desireth them again to speak their minds freely . And if they shall like to give their consents , that then the matters may passe to a full conclusion . Hereunto when the Clergie men have given their consents ( which they use to do without any great pausing ) they take their leaves with blessing of the Emperour : who bringeth the Patriarch on his way so farre as the next room , and so returneth to his seat , till all be made readie for his return homeward . The acts that thus are passed by the Zabore or Parliament , the Dyakeis or Secretaries draw into a form of proclamation , which they send abroad into every Province , and head town of the Realm , to be published there by the Dukes and Dyakeis or Secretaries of those places . The session of Parliament being fully ended , the Emperour inviteth the Clergie men to a solemn dinner . And so they depart every man to his home . CHAP. IX . Of the Nobilitie , and by what means it is kept in an under proportion agreeable to that State. THe degrees of Persons 〈…〉 of Russia , besides the sovereigne State or Emperour himself , are these in their order . 1. The Nobilitie , which is of foure sorts : Whereof the chief for birth , 〈◊〉 , and revenue , are called the Udelney Knazey , that is , the exempt or priviledged Dukes . These held sometime a severall jurisdiction , and absolute authoritie within their precincts , much like unto the States or Nobles of Germany . But afterwards ( reserving their rights upon composition ) they yielded themselves to the house of Beala when it began to wax mightie , and to enlarge it self by overmatching their neighbours . Onely they were bound to serve the Emperour in his warres with a certain number of horse . But the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich , father to this prince , being a man of high spirit , and subtill in his kind , meaning to reduce his government into a more strict form , began by degrees to clip off their greatnesse , and to bring it down to a lesser proportion , till in the end he made them not onely his vassals , but his K●lophey , that is , his very villains or bondslaves . For so they term and write themselves in any publick instrument or private petition which they make to the Emperour . So that now they hold their authorities , lands , lives and all at the Emperours pleasure , as the rest do . The means and practise whereby he wrought this to effect against those and other of the Nobility ( so well as I could note out of the report of his doings ) were these , and such like : First , he cast private emulations among them about prerogative of their titles and dignities . Wherein he used to set on the inferiours to preferre or equall themselves to those that were accounted to be of the nobler houses . Where he made his advantage of their malice and contentions the one against the other , by receiving devised matter , and accusations of secret practise and conspiracies to be intended against his person and state . And so having singled out the greatest of them , and cut them off with the good liking of the rest , he fell at last to open practise , by forcing of the other to yield their rights unto him . 2 He divided his subjects into two parts or factions by a generall schisme . The one part he called the Oppressini or Select men . These were such of the Nobilitie and Gentrie as he took to his own part , to protect and maintain them as his faithfull subjects . The other he called Zempskey , or the Commons . The Zempskey contained the base and vulgar sort , with such Noblemen and Gentlemen as he meant to cut off , as suspected to mislike his government , and to have a meaning to practise against him . Wherein he provided that the Oppressini for number and qualitie of valour , money , armour , &c. farre exceeded the other of the Zempskey side , whom he put ( as it were ) from under his protection , so that if any of them were spoiled or killed by those of the Oppressini ( which he accounted of his own part ) there was no amends to be sought for by way of publick justice , or by complaint to the Emperour . The whole number of both parts was orderly registred and kept in a book , so that every man knew who was a Zempskey man , and who of the Oppressini . And this libertie of the one part to spoil and kill the other without any help of Magistrate or law ( that continued seven years ) enriched that side , and the Emperours treasurie , and wrought that withall which he intended by this practise , viz to take out of the way such of the Nobilitie as himself misliked , whereof were slain within one week to the number of three hundred within the citie of Mosko . This tyrannicall practise of making a generall Schisme and publick division among the subjects of his whole Realm proceeded ( as should seem ) from an extreme doubt , and desperate fear , which he had conceived of most of his Nobilitie , and Gentlemen of his Realm , in his warres with the Polonian and Chrim Tartar , what time he grew into a vehement suspicion ( conceived of the ill successe of his affairs ) that they practised treason with the Polonian and Chrim . Whereupon he executed some , and devised this way to be rid of the rest . And this wicked policy and tyrannous practise ( though now it be ceased ) hath so troubled that countrey , and filled it so full of gr●…dge and mortall hatred ever since , that it will not be quenched ( as it seemeth now ) till it burn again into a civil flame . 3 Having thus pulled them and seased all their inheritance , lands , priviledges , &c. save some very small part which he left to their name , he gave them other lands of the tenure of Pomestnoy ( as they call it ) that are held at the Emperours pleasure , lying farre off in another countrey , and so removed them into other of his Provinces , where they might have neither favour nor authoritie , not being native nor well known there . So that now these of the chief Nobilitie ( called Udelney Knazey ) are equalled with the rest : save that in the opinion and favour of the people they are of more account , and keep still the prerogative of their place in all their publick meetings . Their practise to keep down these houses from rising again and recovering their dignities are these , and such like : First , many of their heirs are kept unmarried perforce , that the stock may die with them . Some are sent into Siberia , Cazan and Astracan , under pretence of service , and there either made away , or else fast clapped up . Some are put into Abbeys , and shear themselves . Friers by pretence of a vow to be made voluntary and of their own accord , but indeed forced unto it by fear upon some pretended crime objected against them . Where they are so guarded by some of speciall trust , and the Covent it self ( upon whose head it standeth that they make no escape ) as that they have no hope but to end their lives there . Of this kind there are many of very great Nobilitie . These and such like wayes , begun by the Emperour Juan Vasilowich , are still practised by the Godonoes , who being advanced by the marriage of the Empresse their kinswoman rule both the Emperour and his Realm ( specially Borris Federowich Godonoe , brother to the Empresse ) and endeavour by all means to cut off or keep keep down all of the best and ancientest Nobilitie . Whereof divers already they have taken away , whom they thought likeliest to make head against them , and to hinder their purpose , as Knez Andreas Guraken , Bulgatkove , a man of great birth 〈◊〉 authority in the Countrey . The like they have done with Peter Gollauni ( whom they put into a dungeon where 〈…〉 ended his life ) with Knez Vasilieury wich Gollo●hen , with Andrieu Juanowich Suskoy , accounted among them for a man of a great wisdome . So this last yeare was killed in a Monasterie ( whither they had thrust him ) on K●… Juan Petrowich Saskoy , a man of great valour and service in that Countrey , who about five or six years since bare out the siege of the Citie Vobskn made by Stepan Batore King of Polonin with a 100000. men , and repulsed him very valiantly , with great honour to himself and his countrey , and disgrace to the Polonian . Also Micheta Romanowich , uncle to the Emperour by the mothers side , was supposed to have died of poyson , or some li●e practise . The names of these families of greatest Nobilitie are these in their order . The first is of Knez Vol●… , which resteth at this time in one daughter a widow , and without children ( mentioned before ) sometime wife to Hartock Magnus brother to the king of Denmark , now closed within a nunnerie . The 2. Knez Metheloskey , thrust into a Frierie , and his onely sonne kept from marriage to decay the house . The 3. Cli●skoy . But one left of his house , and he without children save one daughter . The 4. Suskoy , whereof there are foure brethren young men , and unmarried all . The 5. Hubetskoy . Of this house are foure living . The 〈◊〉 . Bulgal●y now called Guletchey house , whereof are five living , but youths all . The 7. Vorallinskoy . Two left of that stock . The 8. Odok●key . Two The 9. Telletskoy . One. The 10. Taytove . Three . These are the names of the chief families called Udelney Knazey , that in effect have lost all now , save the very name it self , and favour of the people , which is like one day to restore them again , if any be left . The 2. degree of Nobilitie is of the Boiarens . These are such as the Emperour honoureth ( besides their nobilitie ) with the title of counsellers . The revenue of these two so●● of their Nobles that riseth out of their lands assigned them by the Emperour , and held at his pleasure ( for of their own inheritance there is little left them , as was said before ) is about a thousand marks a yeare : besides pension which they receive of the Emperour for their service in his warres , to the summe of 700 rubbles a yeare , and none above that summe . But in this number the lord Borris Federowich Godonoe is not to be reckoned , that is like a Transcendent , and in no such predicament with the rest , being the Emperours brother in law , his protectour for direction , for command and authoritie Emperour of Russia . His yearly revenue in land and pension , amounteth to the summe of 93700. rubbels and more , as appeareth by the particulars . He hath of inheritance which himself hath augmented in Vasma Dorogobose six thousand rubbels a yeare . For his office of Connick , or master of the Horse , 1200. rubbels or marks , raised out of the Conaslue Sloboday , or the liberties pertaining to that Office , which are certain Lands and Towns near about the Mosko . Besides , all the meadow and pasture ground on both sides the bank of the river Mosko , thirtie verst up the stream , and fourtie verst downwards . For his pension of the Emperour ( besides the other for his office ) 15000. rubbels . Out of the Province or Shire of Vagha , there is given him for a peculiar exempted out of the Chetfird of Posolskoy 32000. rubbels . besides a rent of furres . Out of Rezan and Sever ( another peculiar ) 30000. rubbels . Out of Otfer and Turiock another exempt place 8000 rubbels . For rent of Bathstoves and Bathing houses without the walls of Mosko 1500. rubbels . Besides his pomest , or lands which he holdeth at the Emperours pleasure , which farre exceedeth the proportion of land allotted to the rest of the Nobilitie . One other there is of the house of Glinskoy that dispendeth in land and pension about 40000. rubbels yearly . Which he is suffered to enjoy because he hath married Borris his wives sister , being himself very simple , and almost a naturall . The ordering of him and his lands are committed to Borris . In the third rank are the Voyavodey or such Nobles as are or have been Generals in the Emperours warres . Which deliver the honour of their title to their posterities also 〈◊〉 who take their place above the other Dukes and Nobles that are not of the two former sorts , viz. of the Vdelney Knazey , and of the Boiarens . These three degrees of their Nobilitie ( to wit ) the Udelney knazey , the Boiarens , and the Voiavodey have the addition of Wich , put under their sirname , as Borris Federowich , &c. which is a note of honour that the rest may not usurp . And in case it be not added in the naming of them , they may sue the Bestchest or penaltie of dishonour upon them that otherwise shall term them . The fourth and lowest degree of Nobilitie with them , is of such as bear the name of Knazey or Dukes , but come of the younger brothers of those chief houses , through many descents , and have no inheritance of their own save the bare name or title of Duke onely . For their order is to deliver their names and titles of their dignities over to all their children alike , whatsoever else they leave them . So that the sonnes of a Voiavodey or Generall in the field are called Voiavodey , though they never saw the field , and the sonnes of a Knez or Duke are called Knazey , though they have not one groat of inheritance or livelyhood to maintain themselves withall . Of this sort there are so many that the plentie maketh them cheap , so that you shall see Dukes glad to serve a mean man for five or six rubbels or marks a year , and yet they will stand highly upon their Bestchest or reputation of their Honours . And these are their severall degrees of Nobilitie . The second degree of persons is of their Sina Boiarskey , or the sonnes of Gentlemen , which all are preferred , and hold that name by their service in the Emperours warres , being souldiers by their very stock and birth . To which order are referred their Dyacks or Secretaries , that serve the Emperour in every head town , being joyned in Commission with the Dukes of that place . The last are their Commons , whom they call Mousicks . In which number they reckon their Merchants , and their common artificers . The very lowest and basest sort of this kind ( which are held in no degree ) are their countrey people , whom they call Christianeis . Of the Sina boiarskey ( which are all souldiers ) we are to see in the description of their forces , and military provisions : Concerning their Mousicks , what their condition and behaviour is , in the title or chapter Of the common people . CHAP. X. Of the government of their Provinces and Shires . THe whole countrey of Russia ( as was said before ) is divided into foure parts , which they call Chetfirds , or Tetrarchies . Every Chetfird containeth divers shires , and is annexed to a severall office , whereof it takes the name . The first Chetfird or Tetrarchie beareth the name of Pososkoy Chetfird , or the Jurisdiction of the office of Ambassages , and at this time is under the chief Secretarie and officer of the Ambassages , called Andreas Shalcalove . The standing fee or stipend that he receiveth yearly of the Emperour for this service , is 100. rubbels or marks . The second is called the Roseradney Chetfird , because it is proper to the Roserade or high Constable . At this time it pertaineth by virtue of office to Basilie Shalcolove , brother to the Chancellour , but it is executed by one Zapon Abramove . His pension is an hundred rubbels yearly . The third is the Chetfird of Pomestnoy , as pertaining to that office . This keepeth a Register of all lands given by the Emperour for service to his Noblemen , Gentlemen , and others , giveth out and taketh in all assurances for them . The officer at this time is called Eleazar Wellusgine . His stipend is 500. rubbels a year . The fourth is called Cassanskoy dworets , as being appropriate to the office that hath the jurisdiction of the kingdomes of Cazan and Astracan , with the other towns lying upon the Volgha , now ordered by one Druzhine Pentcleove , a man of very speciall account among them for his wisdome and promptnesse in matters of policie . His pension is 150. rubbels a year . From these Chetfirds or Tetrarchies is exempted the Emperours inheritance or Vochin ( as they call it ) for that it pertained from ancient time to the house of Beala , which is the sirname of the imperiall bloud . This standeth of 36. towns with their bounds or territories ; besid●● divers peculiar jurisdictions , which are likewise deducted out of those Chetfirds , as the Shire of Vagha ( belonging to the Lord Borrise Feder●wich Godonoe ) and such like . These are the chief governours o● officers of the Provinces , not reside●● at their charge abroad , but attending the Emperour whithersoever 〈◊〉 goeth , and carrying their offices about with them , which for the 〈◊〉 part they hold at Mosko , as the Emperours chief seat . The parts and practise of these foure officeo is to receive all complaints and actions whatsoever , that are brought out of their severall Chetfirds and quarters , and to inform them to the Emperours Counsell . Likewise to send direction again to those that are under them in their said Provinces , for all matters given in charge by the Emperour and his Counsell , to be done or put in execution within their precincts . For the ordering of every particular Province of these foure Chetfirds , there is appointed one of these Dukes , which were reckoned before in the lowest degree of their Nobilitie , which are resident in the head towns of the said Provinces . Whereof every one hath joyned with him in Commission a Dyack or Secretarie to assist him , or rather to direct him . For in the executing of their commission the Dyack doth all . The parts of their Commission are these in effect . First to hear and determine in all civill matters within their precinct . To which purpose they have under them certain officers , as Gubnoy Starets or Coroners , who , besides the triall of self-murders , are to attach fellons : and the Soudiae or under-Justices , who themselves also may hear and determine in all matters of the same nature , among the countrey people of their own wards or bayliwicks : but so , that in case either partie dissent , they may appeal , and go further to the Duke and Dyack that reside within the head town . From whom also they may remove the matter to the higher court at Mosko of the Emperours Counsell , where lie all appeals . They have under them also Sotskey Starets , that is Aldermen , or Balives of the hundreds . Secondly , in all criminall matters , as theft , murder , treason , &c. they have authoritie to apprehend , to examine , and to imprison the malefactour , and so having received perfe●… evidence & information of the cause , they are to send it ready drawn and orderly digested up to the Mosko , to the officer of the Chetfird , whereunto that Province is annexed , by whom it is referred and propounded to the Emperours Counsell . But to determine in any matter criminall , or to do execution upon the partie offending , is more then their commission will allow them to do . Thirdly , if there be any publick service to be done within that Province ( as the publishing of any Law , or common order , by way of prodamation , collecting of taxes and impositions for the Emperour , mustering of souldiers , and sending them forth at the day and to the place assigned by the Emperour or his Counsell ) all these and such like per●… to their charge . These Dukes and Dyacks are appointed to their place by the Emperour himself , and are changed ordinarily at every years end , except upon some speciall liking or suit the ●ime be prorogued for a year or two 〈◊〉 . They are men of themselves of 〈◊〉 erodit nor favour with the people where they govern , being neither 〈◊〉 nor brought up among them , 〈◊〉 yet having inheritance of their own there or else where . Onely o● the Emperour they have for that service an 100. marks a year he that hath most , some fiftie , some but thirtie . Which maketh them more suspected and odious to the people , because being so bare , and coming fresh and hungrie upon them lightly every year , they rack and spoil them with out all regard of justice or conscience . Which is easily tolerated by the chief officers of the Chetfirds , to the end they may rob them again , and have a better bootie when they call them to account : which commonly they do at the end of their service , making an advantage of their injustice and oppression over the poore people . There are few of them but they come to the Pudkey or wh●… when their time is ended , which themselves for the most part do mak●… account of . And therefore they furnish themselves with all the sp●… they can for the time of their government , that they may have for both turns , aswell for the Emperour , a●… Lord of the Chetfird , as to res●… some good part for themselves . They that are appointed to govern abroad , are men of this qualitie , save that in the foure border towns that are of greatest importance are set men of more speciall valour and trust , two in every town . Whereof one is ever of the Emperours privie Counsell . These foure border towns are Smolensko , Vobsko , Novogrod , and Cazan , whereof three lie towards the Polonian and Sweden , one bordereth farre off upon the Chrim Tartar. These have larger commission then the other Dukes of the Provinces that I spake of before , and may do execution in criminall matters . Which is thought behoovefull for the Commonwealth , for incident occasions that may happen upon the borders that are farre off , and may not stay for direction , about every occurrent and particular matter from the Emperour and his Counsell . They are changed every year ( except as before ) and have for their stipend 700. rubbels a year he that hath most , some have but 400. Many of these places that are of greatest importance , and almost the whole countrey is managed at this time by the Godonoes and their clients . The citie of Mosko ( that is the Emperours seat ) is governed altogether by the Emperours Counsell . All matters there both civill & criminall are heard & determined in the several courts , held by some of the said Counsell , that reside there all the year long . Onely for their ordinary matters ( as buildings , reparations , keeping of their streets decent and clean , collections , levying of taxes , impositions and such like ) are appointed two Gentlemen , and two Dyacks or Secretaries , who hold a court together for the ordering of such matters . This is called the Zempskey house . If any townsman suspect his servant of these or like matter , hither he may bring him to have him examined upon the Pudkey , or other torture . Besides these two Gentlemen and Secretaries that order the whole Citie , there are Starusts or Ald●rmen for every severall companie . The Alderman hath his Sotskey or Constable , and the Constable hath certain Deoetskeis or Decurions under him , which have the oversight of ten housholds apeice , whereby every disorder is sooner spied , and the common service hath the quicker dispatch . The whole number of Citizens poore and rich are reduced into companies . The cheif officers ( as the Dyacks and Gentlemen ) are appointed by the Emperour himself , the Starust by the Gentlemen and Dyacks , the Sotskey by the Starust or Alderman , and the D●…skois by the Constables . This manner of government of their Provinces and towns , if it were as well set for the giving of justice indifferently to all sorts , as it is to prevent innovations , by keeping of the Nobilitie within order , and the Commons in subjection , it might seem in that kind to be no bad nor unpolitick way for the containing of so large a Commonwealth , of that breadth and length as is the kingdome of Russia . But the oppression and flaverie is so open and so great , that a man would marvell how the Nobilitie and people should suffer themselves to be brought under in , while they had any means to avoid and repūlse it ; or being so strengthned as it is at this present , how the Emperours themselves can be content to practise the same with so open injustice and oppressión of their Subjects , being themselves of a Christian profession . By this it appeareth how hard a matter it were to alter the state of the Russe government , as now it standeth . First , because they have none of the Nobilitie able to make head . As for the Lords of the foure Chetfirds or Tetrarchies , they are men of no Nobilitie , but Dyacks advanced by the Emperour , depending on his favour , and attending onely about his own person . And for the Dukes that are appointed to govern under them , they are but men of a titular dignitie ( as was said before ) of no power , authoritie , nor credit , save that which they have out of the office , for the time they injoy it . Which doth purchase them no favour , but rather hatred of the people , for as much as they see that they are set over them , not so much for any care to do them right and justice , as to keep them under in a miserable subjection , and to take the fliece from them , not once in the year ( as the owner from his sh●ep ) but to poll and clip them all the year long . Besides the authority and rule which they bear is rent and divided into many small pieces , being divers of them in every great Shire , limited besides with a very short time , which giveth them no scope to make any strength , nor to contrive such an enterprise , if happely they intended any matter of innovation . As for the common people ( as may better appear in the description of their state and qualitie afterwards set down ) besides their want of armour and practise of warre ( which they are kept from of purpose ) they are robbed continually both of their hearts and money ( besides other means ) sometime by pretence of some service to be done for the common defence , sometimes without any shew at all of any necessitie of Common-wealth or Prince . So that there is no means either for Nobilitie or people to attempt any innovation , so long as the militarie forces of the Emperour ( which are the number of 8000. ac the least in continuall pay ) hold themselves fast and sure unto him , and to the present state . Which needs they must do , being of the qualitie of Souldiers , and enjoying withall that free libertie of wronging and spoiling of the commons at their preasure , which is permitted them of purpose to make them have a liking of the present state . As for the agreement of the souldiers and commons , it is a thing not to be feared , being of so opposite and contrarie practice much one to the other . This desperate state of things at home maketh the people for the most part to wish for some forein invasion , which they suppose to be the onely means to rid them of the heavy yoke of this tyrannous government . CHAP. XI . Of the Emperours Counsell . THe Emperours of Russia give the name of Counsellour to divers of their chief Nobilitie , rather for honours sake , then for any use they make of them about their matters of state . These are called Boiarens , without any addition , and may be called Counsellours at large . For they are seldome or never called to any publick consulearion . They which are of his speciall and privie Counsell indeed ( whom he useth dayly and ordinarily for all publick matters pertaining to the State ) have the addition of Dumnoy , and are named Dumnoy boiaren , or Lords of the Counsell , their office or sitting Boar●●ua dumna . Their names at this present are these in their order . First , Knez Feoder Joanowich Methisloskey . 2. Knez Jean Michailowich Glinskoy . 3. Knez . Vasi●ee Juanowich Silskoy Scopin . ( These three are accounted to be of greater birth then wisdome , taken in ( as may seem ) for that end , rather to furnish the place with their honours and presence , then with their advise or counsell ) 4. Knez Vasilie Juanowich Suskey , thought to be more wise then the other of his name . 5. Knez Feauer Michailowich . 6. Knez Micheta Romanowich Trowbetskoy . 7. Knez Timophey Romanowich Trowbetskoy . 8. Knez Andriew Gregoriwich Curakine . 9. Knez Demetrie Juanowich Forestine . 10. Knez Feoder Juanowich Forestine . 11. Bodan Juanowich Sabarove . 12. Knez Juan Vasilowich . 13. Knez Feoder Demetriwich Shestinove . 14. Knez Feoder Michailowich Troyconiove . 15. Juan Buterlyney . 16. Demetrie Juanowich Godonoe . 17. Borris Federowich Godonoe , brother to the Empresse . 18. Stephan Vasilowich Godonoe . 19. Gregorie Vasilowich Godonoe . 20. Juan Vasilowich Godonoe . 21. Feoder Sheremitove . 22. Andrew Petrowich Cleshenina . 23. Ignatie Petrowich Tatislove . 24. Romain Michailowich Peva . 25. Demenshoy Juanowich Cheremissen . 26 Romain Vasilowich Alferiove . 27. Andrew Shalcalove . 28. Vasily Shalcalove . 29. Eleazar Wellusgin . 30. Drezheen Penteleove . 31. Zapon Abramove . The foure last of these are called Dumnoy Dyakey or Lord Secretaries . These are all of the Emperours privy counsell , though but few of them are called to any consultation : for that all matters are advised & determined upon by Borris Federowich Godonoe , brother to the Empresse , with some five or six more whom it pleaseth him to call . If they come , they are rather to hear then to give counsel , & do so demean themselves . The matters occurrent which are of state done within the Realm are informed them at their sittings by the Lords of the foure Chetfirds , or Tetrarchies , whereof mention is made in the chapter concerning the Government of their Provinces , who bring in all such letters as they receive from the Dukes , Dyacks , Captains , & other officers of the Cities , & Castles , pertaining to their severall quarter or Chetfird , with other advertisements , and inform the Counsell of them . The like is done by the chief officer of every severall office of Record : who may come into the Counsell chamber , and inform them , as occasion incident to his office doth require . Besides matters of State , they consider of many private causes , informed by way of supplication in very great numbers . Whereof some they entertain and determine , as the cause or means can procure favour . Some they send to the offices whereto they pertain by common course of Law. Their ordinarie dayes for their sitting , are mondayes , wednesdayes , and fridayes . Their time of meeting is commonly seven a clock in the morning . If there be any extraordinary occasion that requireth consultation on some other day , they have warning by the Clerk of the counsell , called Dorosey Bushew , who receiveth order from the Koserad or high Constable of the realm to call them together at the time appointed . CHAP. XII . Of the Emperours customes and other revenues . FOr the receiving of customes and other rents belonging to the Crown , there are appointed divers under-officers , which deliver over the same into the head-treasurie . The first is the office of Dwoertsova or Steward of the houshold . The second is the office of the Chetfirds , which I comprehend under one , though it be divided into foure severall parts , as was said before . The third is called Bulsha prech●de , on the great income . As touching the first , which is the office of the Steward , it receiveth all the rents of the Emperours inheritance , or Crown land , which they call Vochin . The Vochin or Crown land containeth in it 36. towns with the territories or hundreds belonging unto them . Whereof the chief that yield the greatest rents are these , Alexandrisca , Corelska , Otser , Slobodey , Danielska , Moisaiskoy , Chara , Sametzka , Strararouse , Bransove , &c. The inhabitants or tenants of these and the other towns pay some rentmoney , some other rent-duties ( called Obrokey ) as certain chetfirds , or measures of grain , wheat , rie , barley , 〈◊〉 , &c. or of other victuall , as Oxen , Sheep , Swannes , Geese , Hares , Hen●es , wild Fowl , Fish , Hay , Wood , Honie , &c. Some are bound to ●ow for the Emperours provision certain akers of ground , and to make the corn readie for his use , having for it an allowance of certain alters of ground for their own proper use . This provision for the houshold , specially of grain served in by the Tenants , is a great deal more then is spent in his house , or in other allowance served out in liverie , or for the Emperours honour , called Schalovaney : for which use there is bestowed very much both in grain , and other victuall . This surplus of provision is sold by the Steward to the best hand , and runneth into the Emperours treasurie . In the time of Juan Vasilowich , father to this Emperour ( who kept a more Princely and bountifull house then the Emperour now doth ) this overplus of grain , and other incomes into the Stewards office , yielded to his treasurie not past 60. thousand rubbels yearly , but riseth now by good husbanding of the Steward Gregory Vasilowich Godonoe , to 230 thousand rubbels a year . And this by the means of the Empresse & her kindred , specially Borris Federowich Godonoe , that account it all their own that runs into the Emperours treasure . Much of this surplusage that riseth out of the rent-provision , is employed to the paiment of the wages of his hou●…ld officers , which are very many attending at home , and purveying abroad . The second office of receit called the Chetfirds ( being divided into foure severall parts , as before was said ) hath foure head-officers , which besides the ordering and government of the shires contained within their severall Chetfirds have this also as a part of their office , to receive the Tagla & Podat belonging to the Emperour , that riseth out of the foure Chetfirds or Quarters . The Tagla is a yearly rent or imposition raised upon every Wite or measure of grain that groweth within the land , gathered by sworn men , and brought into the office . The Wite containeth sixtie Chetfirds . Every Chetfird is three bushels English , or little lesse . The Podat is an ordinary rent of money imposed upon every Soak , or Hundred within the whole Realm . This Tagla and Podat bring in yearly to the Offices of the Chetfirds a great summe of money : as may appear by the particulars here set down . The town and Province of Vobsko pay yearly for Tagla and P●dat about 18000 rubbels . Novogr●d 35000. rubbels . Torshock and O●s● 8000. rubbels . Razan 30000. rubbels . Morum 12000. rubbels . Colmigrōe and Duyna 8000. rubbels . Vologda 12000. rubbels . Cazan 18000. rubbels . Vsting 30000. rubbels . Rostove 50000. The citie of Mosko 40000. rubbels . Sibierskoy 20000. rubbels . Castrome 12000. rubbels . The totall amounteth to 400000. rubbels or marks a year , which is brought in yearly the first day of September , that is reckoned by them the first day of the year . The third that is called the Bulsha Prechod or great Income receiveth all the customes that are gathered out of all the principall towns and cities within the whole Realm , besides the fees and other duties which rise out of divers smaller Offices , which are all brought into this office of Bulsha Prechod . The towns of most trade , that do yield greatest customes , are these here set down , Mosko , Smolensko , Vobsko , Novogrod Velica , Strararouse , Torshock , Otfer , Yaruslave , castrome , Nesna Novogrod , Cazan , Vologda . This custome out of the great towns is therefore most certain and easie to be reckoned , because it i● set and rated precisely what they ●…ll pay for the custome of the year . Which needs must be paid into the said office , though they receive not so much . If it fall out to be more , it runneth all into the Emperours advantage . The custome at Mosko for every year is 12000. rubbels . The custome of Smolensko , 8000. Vobsko 12000 , rubbels . Novogrod velica 6000. rubbels . Strararouse by salt and other commodities 18000. rubbels . Torsh●ck 800. rubbels . Otfer 700. rubbels . Yaruslave 1200. rubbels . Castrome 1800. rubbels . Nesna Novogrod 7000. rubbels . Cazan 11000. rubbels . Vologda 2000. rubbels . The custome of the rest that are towns of 〈◊〉 is sometimes more , sometimes le●●● , as their traffick and dealings with commodities to and fro falleth out for the year . This may be said for certain , that the three tables of receits belonging to this office of Bulsha Prechod , when they receive least , account for thus much , viz. The first table 160000. rubbels . The second table 90000. rubbels . The third 70000. rubbels . So that there cometh into the office of Bulsha Prechod at the least reckoning ( as appeareth by their books of customes ) out of these and other towns , and maketh the summe of 340000. rubbels a year . Besides this custome out of the towns of trade , there is received by this office of Bulsha Prechod , the yearly rent of the common Bathstoves , and Cabacks , or Drinkinghouses , which pertain to the Emperour . Which ( though it be uncertain for the just summe , yet because it is certain and an ordinary matter , that the Russe will bathe himself aswell within as without ) yieldeth a large rent to the Emperours treasurie . There is besides a certain mulct or penaltie that groweth to the Emperour out of every judgement or sentence that passeth in any of his courts of Record in all civill matters . This penaltie or mulct is 20. Dingoes or pence upon every rubble or mark , and so ten in the hundred , which is paid by the partie that is convict by law . He hath besides for every name contained in the writs that passe out of these courts five Alteens . An Alteen is five pence sterling or thereabouts . This is made good out of the office , whence the writ is taken forth . Thence it goeth to the office that keepeth the lesser seal , where it payeth as much more to the Emperours use . This riseth commonly to 3000. rubbels a year or thereabouts . Further also out of the office of Roisbonia , where all fellonies are tried , is received for the Emperour the half part of fellons goods , the other half goeth the one part to the informer , the other to the officers . All this is brought into the office of Bulsha Prechod , or great income . Besides the overplus or remainder that is saved out of the land-rents , allotted to divers other offices : as namely to the office called Roserade , which hath lands and rents assigned unto it to pay the yearly salaries of the souldiers or horsmen that are kept still in pay . Which in time of peace when they rest at home not employed in any service , is commonly cut off , and paid them by halfs , sometimes not the half : so that the remainder out of the Roserade office that is laid into the Emperours treasurie cometh for the most part every year to 250000. rubbels . In like sort ( though not so much ) is brought in the surplus out of the Strelletskoy offices which hath proper lands for the paiment of the Strelsey men or gunners , aswell those at Mosko , that are of the Emperours guard ( 12000. in ordinary ) as on the borthers , and other garison towns and castles . Likewise out of the office of Prechase , Shifivoy Nemshoy which hath set allowance of lands to maintain the forein mercenarie souldiers , as Poles , Swedens , Dutches , Scots , &c. So out of the office of Pusharskoy . ( which hath lande and rents allowed for the provision of munition , great Ordi●…ce , Powder , S●●t , S●ltpe●…r , Brimstone , 〈◊〉 , and such like ) there is left somewhat at the years end , that runneth into the treasurie . All these bring into the office of Bulsha Prechod that which remaineth in their hand at the years end . Whence 〈◊〉 is delivered into the Emperours treasurie . So that the whole summe that groweth to this office of Bulsha Prechod , or the great income ( as appeareth by the books of the said office ) amounteth to 800000. rubbels a year , or thereabouts . All these offices , to wit , the office of the Steward , the foure Chetsirds , and the Bulsha Prechod deliver in their receits to the head treasurie , that lieth within the Emperours house or castle at the Mosko . Where lie all his moneys , jewels , crowns , sceptres , plate , and such like , the chests , hutches , and bags being signed by the Emperours themselves with their own seal . Though at this time the L. Borris Federowich Godonoe his seal and oversight supplieth for the Emperour , as in all other things . The under-officer at this time is one Stephen Vasilowich Godonoe , Cousin germane to the said Borris , who hath two Clerks allowed to serve under him in the office . The summe that groweth to the Emperours treasurie in money onely , for every year . 1. Out of the Stewards office above the expense of his house 230000 rubbels . 2. Out of the foure Chetfirds for soak and head-money 400000. rubbels . 3. Out of the Bulsha Prechod Office , or great income , for custome and other rents . 800000. rubbels . Summe 1430000. rubbles clear , besides all charges for his house , and ordinary salaries of his souldiers otherwise discharged . But besides this revenue that is paid all in money to the Emperours treasurie he receiveth yearly in furres and other duties to a great value out of Siberia , Pechora , Permia , and other places , which are sold or bartred away for other forein commodities to the Turkish , Persian , Armenian , Georgian and Bougharian Merchants that trade within his countreys , besides others of Christendome . What it maketh in the whole ( though the value cannot be set down precisely , as being a thing casuall as the commoditie may be got ) it may be guessed by that which was gathered the last year out of Siberia for the Emperours custome , viz. 466. timber of Sables , five timber of Martrons , 180. black Foxes , besides other commodities . To these may be added their seizures , and confiscations upon such as are in displeasure , which riseth to a great summe ; besides other their extraordinary impositions , and exactions done upon their officers , Monasteries , &c. not for any apparent necessitie or use of the Prince or commonwealth , but of will and custome ; yet with some pretence of a Scythian , that is , grosse and barbarous policie ( as may appear ) by these few Sophismata or counterfeit policies put in practice by the Emperours of Russia , all tending to this end , to robbe their people , and to inrich their treasurie . To this purpose this by word was used by the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich , That his people were like to his beard . The oftner shaven , the shocker it would grow . Or like sheep , that must needs be shorn once a year at the least , to keep them from being overladen with their wooll . Means used to draw the wealth of the land into the Emperours treasurie . 1. TO prevent no extortions , exactions , or briberies whatsoever , done upon the Commons by their Dukes , Diacks , or other officers in their Provinces , but to suffer them to go on till their time be expired , and to suck themselves full ; then to call them to the Praveush ( or whip ) for their behaviour , and to beat out of them all or the most part of the bootie , as the honie from the Bee , which they have wrung from the Commons , and to turn it into the Emperours treasurie , but never any thing back again to the right owners , how great or evident soever the injurie be : To this end ●…e needy Dukes and Diacks that are sent into their provinces serve the turn very well , being changed so often , to wit , once a year : where in respect of their own and the qualitie of the people , as before was said , they might be continued for some longer time , without all fear of innovation . For coming still fresh upon the Commons , they suck more eagerly : like Tiberius the Emperours flies , that came new still upon all old sores , to whom he was wont to compare his Pretors , and other provinciall officers . 2. To make of these officers ( that have robbed their people ) sometimes a publick example , if any be more notorious then the rest , that the Emperour may seem to mislike the oppressions done to his people , and transferre the fault to his ill officers . As among divers other was done by the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich to a Diack in one of his Provinces , that ( besides many other extortions and briberies ) had taken a goose ready drest full of money . The man was brought to the market place in Mosko : The Emperour himself present made an Oration , These good people are they that would eat you up like bread , &c. Then asked he his Polachies or executioners who could cut up a goose , and commanded one of them first to cut off his legges about the midst of the shinne , then his arms above his elbows , asking him still if goose-flesh were good meat , in the end to chop off his head : that he might have the right fashion of a goose readie dressed . This might seem to have been a tolerable piece of justice ( as justice goeth in Russia ) except his subtill end to cover his own oppressions . 3. To make an open shew of want when any great tax or imposition is towards : As was done by this Emperour Theodore Juanowich , by the advise of some about him at the beginning of his reign : when being left very rich ( as was thought ) by his father , he sold most of his plate , and stamped some into coin , that he might seem to want money . Whereupon presently out came a taxation . 4. To suffer their subjects to give freely to the Monasteries ( which for their superstition very many do , specially in their last wills ) and to lay up their money and substance in them , to keep it more safe . Which all is permitted them without any restraint or proviso , as was and is in some countreyes of Christendome . Whereby their Monasteries grow to exceeding great wealth . This they do to have the money of the Realm better stored together , & more ready for their hand when they list to take it . Which many times is done without any noise : the Friers being content rather to part from somewhat ( as the increase groweth ) then to lose all at once . Which they were made to doubt of in the other Emperours dayes . To this end Juan Vasilowich late Emperour used a very strange practise , that few Princes would have done in their greatest extremities . He resigned his kingdome to one Velica Knez Simeon , the Emperours sonne of Cazan , as though he meant to draw himself from all publick doings to a quiet private life . Towards the end of the year he caused this new King to call in all Charters granted to Bishopricks and Monasteries , which they had enjoyed many hundred years before , which were all cancelled . This done ( as in dislike of the fact and misgovernment of the new King ) he resumed the scepter , and so was content ( as in favour to the Church and religious men ) that they should renew their charters , and take them of himself , reserving and annexing to the Crown so much of their lands as himself thought good . By this practise he wrung from the Bishopricks and Monasteries ( besides the lands which he annexed to the Crown ) an huge masse of money . From some 40. from some 50. from some an hundred thousand rubbels . And this as well for the increase of his treasurie , as to abare the ill opinion of his hard government , by a shew of worse in another man. Wherein his strange spirit is to be noted , that being hated of his subjects ( as himself knew well enough ) yet would venture such a practise to set another in his saddle , that might have ridde away with his horse while himself walked by on foot . 5. To send their messengers into the Provinces or shires where the speciall commodities of their countrey grow , as furres , wax , honey , &c. there to forestall and engrosse sometime one whole commoditie , sometime two , or more , taking them at small prices what themselves list , and selling them again at an excessive rate to their own merchants , and to merchants strangers . If they refuse to buy them , then to force them unto it . The like is done when any commoditie either native or forein ( as cloth of gold , broad cloth , &c. ) thus engrossed by the Emperour , and received into his treasurie , happeneth to decay , or marre by long lying , or some other casualtie . Which is forced upon the Merchants , to be bought by them at the Emperours price , whether they will or no. This last year of 1589. was engrossed all the wax of the countrey , so that none might deal with that commoditie but the Emperour onely . 6. To take up and engrosse in like sort sometime forein commodities , as silks , cloth , lead , pearl , &c. brought into his realm by Turkish merchants , Armenians , Bougharians , Potes , English , and other ; and then to force his merchants to buy them of his officers at his own price . 7. To make a Monopolie for the time of such commodities as are paid him for rent , or custome , and to inhanse the price of them , as furres , corn , wood , &c. what time none must sell of the same kind of commoditie , till the Emperours be all sold. By this means he maketh of his rent-corn , and other provision of victuall ( as before was said ) about 200000. rubbels or marks a year : Of his rent-wood , hay , &c. 30000. rubbels , or thereabouts . 8. In every great town of his Realm he hath a Caback or drinking-house where is sold aquavitae ( which they call Russe wine ) mead , beer , &c. Out of these he receiveth rent that amounteth to a great summe of money . Some yield 800. some 900. some a 1000. some 2000. or 3000. rubbels a year . Wherein besides the base and dishonourable means to encrease his treasurie , many foul faults are committed . The poore labouring man and artificer many times spendeth all from his wife and children . Some use to lay in twentie , thirtie , fourtie rubbels , or more into the Caback , and vow themselves to the pot till all that be spent . And this ( as he will say ) for the honour of Hospodare , or the Emperour . You shall have many there that have drunk all away to the very skin , and so walk naked , whom they call Naga . While they are in the Caback , none may call them forth whatsoever cause there be , because he hindereth the Emperours revenue . 9. To cause some of his Boiarens or Nobles of his court ( whom he useth upon trust ) that have houses in the Mosko to fain themselves robbed ; then to send for the Zemskey men , or Aldermen of the citie , and to command them to find out the robberie . In default of not finding it , to prave or seize the citie for their misgovernment in 8000. 9000. or 10000 rubbels at a time . This is many times practised . 10. In these exactions to shew their sovereigntie , sometime they use very plain and yet strange cavillations . As was that of Juan Vasilowich , father to this Emperour , after this sort : He sent into Permia for certain loads of Cedar wood , whereof he knew that none grew in that Countrey . The inhabitants returned answer they could find none there . Whereupon he seassed their Countrey in 12000. rubbels , as if they concealed the commoditie of purpose . Again he sent to the citie of Mosko to provide for him a Colpack or measure full of live fleas for a medicine . They returned answer that the thing was impossible ; and if they could get them , yet they could not measure them , for leaping out . Whereupon he praved or beat out of their shins 7000. rubbels for a mulct . By like cavillation he extorted from his Nobilitie 30000. rubbels , because he missed of his game , when he went a hunting for the Hare : as if their hunting and murdering of hares had been the cause of it . Which the Nobilitie ( as the manner is ) praved presently again upon the Mousicks or common people of the Countrey . This may seem a strange kind of extortion , by such pleasant cavils to fliece his poore subjects in good sadnesse , but that it agreeth with the qualitie of those Emperours , and the miserable subjection of that poore Countrey . These and such like means are practised by the Emperours of Russia , to encrease their Treasurie . CHAP. XIII . Of the state of the Commonaltie , or vulgar sort of people in the countrey of Russia . THe condition of the Commons and vulgar sort of people may partly be understood by that which already hath been said concerning the manner of their government , and the state of the Nobilitie , with the ordering of their Provinces , and chief towns of the land . And first , touching their libertie , how it standeth with them , it may appear by this , that they are reckoned in no degree at all , nor have any suffrage nor place in their Zabore , or High court of Parliament , where their laws and publick orders are concluded upon , which commonly tend to the oppression of the commons . For the other two degrees viz. of the Nobilitie , and Clergie , which have a vote in the Parliaments ( though farre from that libertie that ought to be in common consultations for the publick benefit , according to the measure and proportion of their degrees ) are well contented that the whole burden shall light upon the Commons , so they may ease their own shoulders by laying all upon them . Again , into what servile condition their libertie is brought , not onely to the Prince , but to the Nobles and Gentlemen of the Countrey ( who themselves also are but servile , specially of late years ) it may further appear by their own acknowledgements in their supplications and other writings to any of the Nobles or chief officers of the Emperours , wherein they name and subscribe themselves Kolophey , that is , their villains , or bondslaves , as they of the Nobilitie do unto the Emperour . This may truly be said of them , that there is no servant nor bondslave more awed by his Master , nor kept down in a more servile subjection , then the poore people are , and that universally , not onely by the Emperour but by his Nobilitie , chief officers and souldiers . So that when a poore Mousick meeteth with any of them upon the high way , he must turn himself about , as not daring to look him on the face , and fall down with knocking of his head to the very ground , as he doth unto his Idol . Secondly , concerning the lands , goods , and other possessions of the commons , they answer the name , and lie common indeed , without any fense against the rapine and spoil not onely of the highest , but of his Nobilitie , officers , and souldiers . Besides the taxes , customes , seizures , and other publick exactions done upon them by the Emperour , they are so racked and pulled by the Nobles , officers , & messengers sent abroad by the Emperour in his publick affairs , specially in the Yammes ( as they call them ) and through fare towns , that you shall have many villages and towns of half a mile , and a mile long , stand all unhabited , the people being fled all into other places by reason of the extreme usage , and exactions done upon them . So that in the way towards Mosko , betwixt Vologda and Yaruslaveley ( which is two nineties after their reckoning , little more then an hundred miles English ) there are in sight fiftie Darieunes or villages at the least , some half a mi●e , some a mile long , that stand vacant and desolate without any inhabitant . The like is in all other places of the realm , as is said by those that have better travelled the countrey then my self had time or occasion to do . The great oppression over the poore Commons maketh them to have no courage in following their trades : for that the more they have , the more danger they are in , not onely of their goods , but of their lives also . And if they have any thing , they conceal it all they can , sometimes conveying it into Monasteries , sometimes hiding it under the ground , and in woods , as men are wont to do where they are in fear of forein invasion : in so much that many times you shall see them afraid to be known to any Boiaren or Gentleman of such commodities as they have to sell. I have seen them sometimes when they have laid open their commodities for a liking ( as their principall furres and such like ) to look still behind them , and towards every doore , as men in some fear , that looked to be set upon , and surprised by some enemie : Whereof asking the cause , I found it to be this , That they have doubted left some Nobleman or Sinaboiarskey of the Emperour had been in companie , and so laid a train for them to prey upon their commodities perforce . This maketh the people ( though otherwise hardened to bear any toil ) to give themselves much to idlenesse and drinking , as passing for no more then from hand to mouth . And hereof it cometh that the commodities of Russia ( as was said before ) as wax , tallow , hides , flax , hemp , &c. grow and go abroad in farre lesse plentie then they were wont to do , because the people , being oppressed and spoiled of their gettings , are discouraged from their labours . Yet this one thing is much to be noted , that in all this oppression there were three brethren Merchants of late that traded together with one stock in common , that were found to be worth 300000. rubbels in money , besides lands , cattels , and other commodities . Which may partly be imputed to their dwellings farre off from the eye of the Court , viz. in Wichida a 1000. miles from Mosko , and more . The same are said by those that knew them to have set on work all the year long ten thousand men in making of salt , carriages by cart , and boat , hewing of wood , and such like , besides 5000. bondslaves at the least , to inhabite and till their land . They had also their physitions , surgeons , apothecaries , and all manner of artificers of Doutcees and others , belonging unto them . They are said to have paid to the Emperour for custome to the summe of 23000. rubbels a year ( for which cause they were suffered to enjoy their trade ) besides the maintaining of certain garrisons on the borders of Siberia , which were near unto them . Wherein the Emperour was content to use their purse , till such time as they had got ground in Siberia , and made it habitable , by burning , and cutting down woods from Wichida to Perm , above a 1000. verse , and then took it all away from them perforce . But this in the end being envied and disdained , as a matter not standing with their pollicie to have any so great , specially a Mousick , the Emperour began first to pull from them by pieces , sometimes 20000 rubbels at a time , sometime more ; till in the end their sons that now are , are well eased of their stock , and have but small part of their fathers substance , the rest being drawn all into the Emperours treasurie . Their names were Jacove , Gregorie , and Simon the sonnes of Onyka . For the qualitie of their people otherwise , though there seemeth to be in them some aptnesse to receive any art ( as appeareth by the naturall wits in the men , and very children ) yet they excell in no kind of common art , much lesse in any learning , or literall kind of knowledge : which they are kept from of purpose , as they are also from all militarie practise , that they may be fitter for the servile condition wherein now they are , and have neither reason nor valour to attempt innovation . For this purpose also they are kept from travelling that they may learn nothing , nor see the fashions of other Countreys abroad . You shall seldome see a Russe a traveller , except he be with some Ambassadour , or that he make a scape out of his Countrey . Which hardly he can do , by reason of the borders that are watched so narrowly , and the punishment for any such attempt , which is death if he be taken , and all his goods confiscate . Onely they learn to write , and to reade , and that very few of them . Neither do they suffer any stranger willingly to come into their realm out of any civill Countrey , for the same cause , further then necessitie of uttering their commodities , and taking in of forein doth enforce them to do . And therefore this year 1589. they consulted about the removing of all Merchants strangers to the border towns , to abide and have their residencie there , and to be more wary in admitting other strangers hereafter into the Inland parts of the realm , for fear of infection with better manners and qualities then they have of their own . For the same purpose also they are kept within the bounds of their degree by the laws of their countrey , so that the sonne of a Mousick , artificer or husbandman , is ever a Mousick , artificer , &c. and hath no means to aspire any higher , except , having learned to write and read , he attain to the preferment of a Priest , or Dyack . Their language is all one with the Slavonian , which is thought to have been derived from the Russe tongue , rather then the Russe from the Slavonian . For the people called Sclavi , are known to have had their beginning out of Sarmatia , and to have termed themselves of their conquest Sclavos , that is , famous or glorious , of the word Sclava , which in the Russe and Slavonian tongue signifieth as much as Glory , or Fame . Though afterwards being subdued and trod upon by divers nations , the Italians their neighbours have turned the word to a contrary signification , and term every servant or peasant by the name of Sclave , as did the Romanes by the Getes and Syrians , for the same reason . The Russe character or letter is no other then the Greek , somewhat distorted . Concerning their trades , diet , apparrell , and such like , it is to be noted in a severall chapter of their private behaviour . This order that bindeth every man to keep his ranck , and severall degree , wherein his forefathers lived before him , is more meet to keep the Subjects in a servile subjection , and so apt for this and the like Common-wealths , then to advance any virtue , or to breed any rare or excellent qualitie in Nobilitie or Commons , as having no further reward nor preferment whereunto they may bend their endeavours , and employ themselves to advance their estate , but rather procuring more danger to themselves , the more they excell in any noble or principall qualitie . CHAP. XIV . Of their publick Justice , and manner of proceeding in civill , and criminall matters . THeir courts of civill justice for matters of contract , and other of like sort , are of three kinds , the one being subject unto the other by way of appeal . The lowest Court ( that seems to be appointed for some ease to the Subjects ) is the office of the Gubnoy Starust , that signifieth an Alderman , and of the Sotskey Starust , or Bailiff of the Soak or Hundred , whereof I spake before in the ordering of the Provinces . These may end matters among their neighbours within their Soak , or severall Hundred , where they are appointed under the Dukes and Diacks of the Provinces , to whom the parties may remove their matter , if they cannot be agreed by the said Gubnoy or Sotskoy Starust . The second is kept in the head towns of every Province or Shire by the said Dukes and Diacks , that are deputies to the foure Lords of the Chetfirds , as before was said . From these courts they may appeal and remove their suits to the chief Court , that is kept at the Mosko , where are resident the officers of the foure Chetfirds . These are the chief Justices or Judges , every of them in all civill matters that grow within their severall Chetfird or quarter , and may be either commenced originally before them , or prosecuted out of the inferiour Courts of the Shires by way of appeal . Their commencing and proceeding in civill actions is on this manner . First , the plaintiff putteth up his supplication , wherein he declareth the effect of his cause , or wrong done unto him . Whereupon is granted unto him a Wepis , or warrant , which he delivereth to the Prestave , or Sergeant , to do the arrest upon the partie whom he meaneth to implead , who upon the arrest is to put in sureties to answer the day appointed , or else standeth at the Sergeants devotion , to be kept safe by such means as he thinketh good . The Sergeants are many , and excell for their hard and cruell dealing towards their prisoners ; commonly they clap irons upon them , as many as they can bear , to wring out of them some larger fees . Though it be but for six pence , you shall see them go with chains on their legs , arms , and neck . When they come before the Judge , the plaintiff beginneth to declare his matter after the content of his supplication . As for Atturneys , Counsellours , Procuratours and Advocates to plead their cause for them , they have no such order , but every man is to tell his own tale , and plead for himself so well as he can . If they have any witnesse , or other evidence , they produce it before the Judge . If they have none , or if the truth of the cause cannot so well be discerned by the plea , or evidence on both parts , then the Judge asketh either partie ( which he thinketh good , plaintife or defendant ) whether he will kisse the Crosse upon that which he avoucheth or denieth . He that taketh the Crosse ( being so offered by the Judge ) is accounted clear , and carrieth away the matter . This ceremonie is not done within the Court or Office , but the partie is carried to the Church by an Officer , and there the ceremonie is done : the money in the mean while hanging upon a nail , or else lying at the idols feet , ready to be delivered to the partie as soon as he hath kissed the Crosse before the said Idol . This kissing of the Crosse , called Creustina chelovania , is as their corporall oath , and accounted with them a very holy thing , which no man will dare to violate or prophane with a false allegation . If both parties offer to kisse the Crosse in a contradictorie matter , then they draw lots . The better lot is supposed to have the ight , and beateth away the matter . So the partie convicted is adjudged to pay the debt or penaltie whatsoever , and withall to pay the Emperours fees , which is twentie pence upon every mark , as before hath been noted . When the matter is thus ended , the partie convicted is delivered to the Sergeant , who hath a writ for his warrant out of the office to carry him to the Praveush or Righter of Justice , if presently he pay not the money , or content not the partie . This Praveush or Righter is a place near to the office , where such as have sentence passed against them , and refuse to pay that which is adjudged , are beaten with great cudgels on the shinnes , and calves of their legs . Every forenoon from eight to eleven , they are set on the Praveush , and beat in this sort till the money be paid : The afternoon and night time , they are kept in chains by the Sergeant , except they put in sufficient sureties for their appearance at the Praveush at the houre appointed . You shall see fourtie or fiftie stand together on the Praveush all on a row , & their shinnes thus becudgelled and bedasted every morning with a pi●eous crie . If after a years standing on the Praveush , the partie will not , or lack wherewithall to satisfie his creditour , it is lawfull for him to sell his wife and children , either outright , or for a certain term of years . And if the price of them do not amount to the full payment , the creditour may take them to be his bondslaves , for years or for ever , according as the value of the debt requireth . Such kind of suits as lack direct evidence , or stand upon conjectures and circumstances to be weighed by the Judge , draw of great length , and yield great advantage to the Judge & officers . If the suit be upon a bond , or bill , they have for the most part good and speedy justice . Their bonds or bills are drawn in a very plain sort , after this tenour , I Juan Vastleo have borrowed of Alphonasse Dementio the summe of one hundred rubbels of going money of Mosko , from the Kreshenea ( or hallowing of the water ) untill the Saburney voscreshenea ( or Counsell Sunday ) without interest . And if this money rest unpayed after that day , then be shall give interest upon the said money , after the common rate , as it goeth among the people , viz. for every five the sixth rubbel . Upon this there are witnesses , Micheta Sydroveskoy , &c. Subscribed , This bill have I written Gabriel Jacovelesni , in the year 796. The witnesses and debter ( if he can write ) endorse their names on the back side of the bill . Other signing , or sealing have they none . When any is taken for a matter of crime ( as treason , murder , theft , and such like ) he is first brought to the Duke and Diack that are for the Province where the partie is attached , by whom he is examined . The manner of examination in such cases is all by torture , as scourging with whips made of sinews , or whitleather ( called the Pudkey ) as bigge as a mans finger , which giveth a sore lash , and entreth into the flesh , or by tying to a spit and rosting at the fire , sometimes by breaking and wresting one of their ribs with a pair of hot tongues , or cutting their flesh under the nails , and such like . The examination thus taken , with all the proofs & evidences that can be alledged against the partie , is it sent up to the Mosko to the Lord of the Chetfird or fourth part under whom the Province is , and by him is presented to the Counsell table , to be read and sentenced there , where onely judgement is given in matter of life and death , and that by evidence upon information , though they never saw nor heard the partie , who is kept still in prison where the fact was committed , and never sent up to the place where he is tried . If they find the partie guiltie , they give sentence of death according to the qualitie of the fact : which is sent down by the Lord of the Chetfird to the Duke and Diack to be put in executien . The prisoner is carried to the place of execution with his hands bound , and a wax candle burning held betwixt his fingers . Their capitall punishments are hanging , heading , knocking on the head , drowning , putting under the ice , setting on a stake , and such like . But for the most part the prisoners that are condemned in summer , are kept for the winter , to be knockt in the head , and put under the ice . This is to be understood of common persons . For theft , and murder , if they be committed upon a poore Mousick by one of Nobilitie , are not lightly punished , nor yet is he called to any account for it . Their reason is , because they are accounted their Kolophey or bondslaves . If by some Sinaboiarskey or Gentleman-souldier a murder or theft be committed , peradventure he shall be imprisoned at the Emperours pleasure . If the manner of the fact be very notorious , he is whipped perchance , and this is commonly all the punishment that is inflicted upon them . If a man kill his own servant , little or nothing is said unto him , for the same reason , because he is accounted to be his Kolophey , or bondslave , and so to have right over his very head . The most is some small mulct to the Emperour , if the partie be rich : and so the quarrell is made rather against the purse , then against the injustice . They have no written law , save onely a small book that containeth the time , and manner of their sitting , order in proceeding , and such other judiciall forms and circumstances , but nothing to direct them to give sentence upon right or wrong . Their onely law is their Speaking Law , that is , the pleasure of the Prince , and of his Magistrates and officers . Which sheweth the miserable condition of this poore people , that are forced to have them for their law , and direction of justice , against whose injustice and extreme oppression they had need to be armed with many good and strong laws . CHAP. XV. Their forces for the warres , with the chief officers and their salaries . THe souldiers of Russia are called Sinaboiarskey , or the sonnes of Gentlemen , because they are all of that degree , by virtue of their military profession . For every souldier in Russia is a gentleman , and none are gentlemen , but onely the souldiers , that take it by descent from their ancestours : so that the sonne of a gentleman ( which is born a souldier ) is ever a gentleman , and a souldier withall , and professeth nothing else but militarie matters . When they are of years able to bear arms , they come to the office of Roserade , or great Constable , and there present themselves : who entreth their names , and allotteth them certain lands to maintain their charges , for the most part the same that their fathers enjoyed . For the lands assigned to maintain the army are ever certain , annexed to this office , without improving or detracting one foot . But that if the Emperour have sufficient in wages , the rooms being full so farre as the land doth extend already , they are , many times deferred , and have nothing allowed them , except some one portion of the land be divided into two . Which is a cause of great disorder within that countrey , when a souldier that hath many children shall have sometimes but one entertained in the Emperours pay . So that the rest having nothing are forced to live by unjust and wicked shifts , that tend to the hurt and oppression of the Mousick , or common sort of people . This inconvenience groweth by maintaining his forces in a continuall succession . The whole number of his souldiers in continuall pay is this : First , he hath of his Dworaney , that is , Pensioners , or Guard of his person , to the number of 15000. horsemen , with their captains , and other officers , that are alwayes in a readinesse . Of these 15000. horsemen , there are three sorts or degrees , which differ as well in estimation as in wages one degree from another . The first sort of them is called Dworaney Bulshey , or the company of head Pensioners , that have some an hundred , some fourescore rubbels a year , and none under 70. The second sort are called Seredney Dworaney , or the middle rank of Pensioners . These have sixtie , or fiftie rubbels by the year , none under fourtie . The third and lowest sort are the Dyta Boiarskey , that is , the low Pensioners . Their salarie is thirtie rubbels a year for him that hath most , some have but five and twentie , some twentie , none under twelve . Whereof the half part is paid them at the Mosko , the other half in the field by the Generall when they have any warres , and are employed in service . When they receive their whole pay , it amounteth to 55000. rubbels by the year . And this is their wages , besides lands allotted to every one of them , both to the greater and the lesse , according to their degrees . Whereof he that hath least , hath to yield him twen tie rubbels , or marks by the year . Besides these 15000. horsemen , that are of better choice ( as being the Emperours own guard when himself goeth to the warres , not unlike the Romane souldiers called Praetoriam ) are 110 , men of speciall account for their Nobilitie and trust , which are chosen by the Emperour , and have their names registred , that find among them for the Emperours ware to the number of 65000. horsemen , with all necessaries meet for the wartes after the Russe manner . To this end they have yearly allowance made by the Emperour for themselves , and their companies , to the summe of 40000. rubbels . And these 65000. are to repair to the field every year on the borders towards the Chrim Tartar ( except they be appointed for some other service ) whether there be warres-with the Tartars or not . This might seem peradventure somewhat dangerous for some state to have so great forces under the command of Noblemen to assemble every year to one certain place . But the matter is so used , as that no danger can grow to the Emperour , or his state by this means . 1. Because these Noblemen are many , to wit , an 110 in all , and changed by the Emperour so oft as he thinketh good . 2. Because they have their livings of the Emperour , being otherwise but of very small revenue , and receive this yearly pay of 40000. rubbels , when it is presently to be paid forth again to the souldiers that are under them . 3. Because for the most part they are about the Emperours person , being of his Councel , either speciall , or at large . 4. They are rather as paymasters then Captains to their companies , themselves not going forth ordinarily to the warres , save when some of them are appointed by speciall order from the Emperour himself . So the whole number of horsemen that are ever in a readinesse and in continuall pay , are 80000 , a few more or lesse . If he have need of a greater number ( which seldome falleth out ) then he entertaineth of those Sinaboiar skey , that are out of pay , so many as he needeth : and if yet he want of his number , he giveth charge to his Noblemen , that hold lands of him , 〈◊〉 bring into the field every man a proportionable number of his servants ( called Kolophey , such as till his lands ) with their furniture , according to the just number that he intendeth to make . Which , the service being done , presently lay in their weapons , and return to their servile occupations again . Of footmen that are in continuall pay he hath to the number of 12000. all Gunners , called Strelsey : Whereof 5000. are to attend about the Citie of Mosko , or any other place where the Emperour shall abide , and 2000. ( which are called Stremaney Strelsey , or Gunners at the stirrop ) about his own person at the very Court or house where himself lodgeth . The rest are placed in his garison Towns , till there be occasion to have them in the field , and receive for their salarie or stipend every man seven rubbels a year , besides twelve measures apiece of Rie and Oats . Of mercenarie Souldiers , that are strangers ( whom they call Nimschey ) they have at this time 4300. of Polonians : of Chirchasses ( that are under the Polonians ) about 4000. whereof 3500. are abroad in his garisons : of Dutches and Scots about 150. of Greeks , Turks , Danes and Swedens , all in one band , an 100. or thereabouts . But these they use onely upon the Tartar side , and against the Siberians : as they do the Tartar souldiers ( whom they hire sometimes , but onely for the present ) on the other side against the Polonian and Sweden : thinking it best policie so to use their service upon the contrary border . The chief Captains or leaders of these forces , according to their names and degrees , are these which follow : First , the Voyavodey Bulshaia , that is , the Great Captain , or Lieutenant generall under the Emperour . This commonly is one of the foure houses of the chief Nobilitie of the land , but so chosen otherwise , as that he is of small valour or practice in martiall matters , being-thought to serve that turn so much the better , if he bring no other parts with him save the countenance of his Nobilitie , to be liked of by the souldiers for that , and nothing else . For in this point they are very warie , that these two , to wit , nobilitie and power meet not both in one , specially if they see wisdome withall , or aptnesse for policie . These great Voiavod or Generall at this present in their warres is commonly one of these foure : Knez Theodor Juanowich Methisloskey , Knez Juan Michailowich Glinskoy , cherechaskoy , and Trowbetskoy , all of great Nobilitie , but of very simple qualitie otherwise : though in Glinskoy ( as they say ) there is somewhat more then in the rest . To make up this defect in the Voiavod or Generall , there is some other joyned with him as Lieutenant Generall , of farre lesse nobilitie , but of more valour and experience in the warres then he , who ordereth all things that the other countenanceth . At this time their principall man , and most used in their warres , is one Knez Demetrie Juanowith Forestine , an ancient and expert captain , and one that hath done great service ( as they say ) against the Tartar and Polonian . Next under the Voiavod and his Lieutenant generall are foure other that have the marshalling of the whole army divided among them , and may be called the Marshalls of the field . Every man hath his quarter or fourth part under him . Whereof the first is called the Prava Polskoy , or right wing ; the second is the Levey Polskoy , or left wing ; the third is Rusnoy Polskoy , or the broken band , because out of this there are chosen to send abroad upon any sudden exploit , or to make a rescue , or supplie , as occasion doth require ; the fourth , Storeshovoy Polskoy , or the warding band . Every one of these foure Marshalls have two other under them ( eight in all ) that twice every week at the least must muster and train their severall wings or bands , and hold and give justice for all faults & disorders committed in the camp . And these eight are commonly chosen out of the 110. ( which I spake of before ) that receive and deliver the pay to the souldiers . Under these eight are divers other Captains , as the Gulavoy , Captains of thousands , five hundreds , and 100. the Petyde Setskoy or Captains of fifties , and the Decetskies or Captains of tens . Besides the Voiavoda or generall of the Armie ( spoken of before ) they have two other that bear the name of Voiavoda : whereof one is the Master of the great Ordinance ( called Naradna Voiavoda ) who hath divers under Officers , necessary for that service ; the other is called the Voiavoda gulavoy , or the walking Captain , that hath allowed him 1000. good horsemen of principall choice , to range and spie abroad , and hath the charge of the running Castle , which we are to speak of in the Chapter following . All these Captains and men of charge must once every day resort to the Bulsha Voiavoda , or Generall of the Armie , to know his pleasure , and to inform him if there be any requisite matter pertaining to their office . CHAP. XVI . Of their mustering , and levying of forces , manner of armour , and provision of victuall for the warres . WHen wars are towards ( which they fail not of lightly every year with the Tartar , and many times with the Polonian and Sweden ) the foure Lords of the Chetfirds send forth their summons in the Emperours name to all the Dukes and Dyacks of the Provinces , to be proclaimed in the head Towns of every Shire , that all the Sinaboiarskey , or sonnes of gentlemen , make their repair to such a border where the service is to be done , at such a place , and by such a day , and there present themselves to such and such Captains . When they come to the place assigned them in the summons or proclamation , their names are taken by certain Officers that have Commission for that purpose from the Reserade , or high Constable , as Clerks of the Bands . If any make default and fall at the day , he is mulcted , and punished very severely . As for the Generall and other chief Captains , they are sent thither from the Emperours own hand , with such Commission and charge as he thinketh behovefull for the present service . When the souldiers are assembled , they are reduced into their Bands , and Companies , under their severall Captains of tennes , fifties , hundreds , thousands , &c. and these Bands into foure Polskois or Legions ( but of farre greater numbers then Romane Legions were ) under their foure great Leaders , which also have the authoritie of Marshals of the field ( as was said before . ) Concerning their armour , they are but slightly appointed . The common horseman hath nothing else but his bow in his case under his right arm , and his quiver , and sword hanging on the left side , except some few that bear a case of dagges , or a javelin , or short staff along their horse side . The under-captains will have commonly some piece of armour besides , as a shirt of male , or such like . The Generall with the other chief Captains and men of Nobilitie will have their horse very richly furnished , their Saddles of cloth of gold , their Bridles fair bossed and tasselled with gold and silk fringe , bestudded with pearl and precious stones , themselves in very fair armour , which they call Bullatnoy , made of fair shining steel , yet covered commonly with cloth of gold , and edged round with arm in furre , his steel helmet on his head of a very great price , his sword how and arrows at his side , his spear in his hand , with another fair helmet , and his Shesta pera , or horsemans sceptre carried before him : Their swords , bows , and arrows are of the Turkish fashion . They practise like the Tartar to shoot forwards and backwards , as they flie and retire . The Strelsey or footman hath nothing but his piece in his hand , his striking hatchet at his back , and his sword by his side . The stock of his piece is not made caliever-wise , but with a plain and strair stock ( somewhat like a fowling piece ) the barrell is rudely and unartificially made , very heavie , yet shooteth but a very small bullet . As for their provision of victuall , the Emperour alloweth none , either for Captain , or souldier , neither provideth any for them , except peradventure some corn for their money . Every man is to bring sufficient for himself , to serve his turn for foure moneths , and if need require to give order for more to be brought unto him to the Camp from his tenant that tilleth his land , or some other place . One great help they have , that for lodging and diet every Russe is prepared to be a souldier beforehand ; though the chief Captains and other of account carry tents with them after the fashion of ours , with some better provision of victuall then the rest . They bring with them commonly into the camp for victuall a kind of dried bread ( which they call Sucharie ) with some store of meal , which they temper with water , and so make it into a ball or small lump of dough , called Tollockno , and this they eat raw in stead of bread . Their meat is bacon , or some other flesh or fish dried , after the Dutch manner . If the Russe souldier were as hardie to execute an enterprise , as he is hard to bear out toil and travell , or were otherwise as apt and well trained for the warres , as 〈◊〉 is indifferent for his lodging and 〈◊〉 yet , he would farre exceed the souldiers of our parts , whereas , now he 〈◊〉 farre meaner of courage and execution in any warlike service . Which cometh partly of his servile condition , that will not suffer any great courage or valour to grow in him ; part●…y for lack of due honour and reward , which he hath no great hope of , whatsoever service or execution he ●…o . CHAP. XVII . Of their marching , charging , and other Martiall discipline . THe Russe trusteth rather to his number , then to the valour of his souldiers , or good ordering of his forces . Their marching or leading 〈◊〉 without all order , save that the foure Polskoy or Legions ( where into their armie is divided ) keep themselves severall under their ensignes , and so thrust all on together in a h●●rey , as they are directed by their Generall . Their Ensigne is the image of Saint George . The Bulsha Dworaney or chief horsemen have every man a small drumme of brasse at his saddle-bow , which he striketh when he giveth the charge or on●●● . They have drummes besides of a huge bignesse , which they carry with them upon a board laid on foure horses , that are sparred together with chains , every drumme having eight strikers or drummers , besides trumpets and shaums , which they sound after a wild manner , much different from ours . When they give any charge , or make any invasion , they make a great hallow or shout altogether , as loud as they can , which with the sound of their trumpets , shaums , and drummes , maketh a confused and horrible noise . So they set on first discharging their arrows , then dealing with their swords , which they use in a braverie to shake and brandish over their heads , before they come to strokes . Their footmen ( because otherwise they want order in leading are commonly placed in some ambush or place of advantage , where they may most annoy the enemie , with least hurt to themselves . If it be a set battell , or if any great invasion be made upon the Russe borders by the Tartar , they are set within the running or moving Castle ( called Beza or Gulay gorod ) which is carried about with them by the Voiavoda Gulavoy ( or the walking Generall ) whom I spake of before . This walking or moving Castle is so framed , that it may be set up in length ( as occasion doth require ) the space of one , two , three , foure , five , six , or seven miles : for so long it will reach . It is nothing else but a double wall of wood to defend them on both sides , behind and before , with a space of three yards or thereabout betvvixt the two sides : so that they may stand within it , and have room enough to charge and discharge their pieces , and to use their other weapons . It is closed at both ends , and made with loop holes on either side , to lay out the nose of their piece , or to push forth any other weapon . It is carried with the Armie wheresoever it goeth , being taken to pieces , and so layed on carts sparred together , and drawn by horses that are not seen , by reason that they are covered with their carriage as with a shelf or penthouse . When it is brought to the place where it is to be used ( which is devised and chosen out before by the walking voiavod ) it is planted so much as the present use requireth , sometime a mile long , sometimes two , sometimes three , or more : Which is soon done without the help of any Carpenter , or instrument , because the timber is so framed to clasp together one piece within an other , as is easily understood by those that know the manner of the Russe building . In this Castle standeth their shot well fenced for advantage , specially against the Tartar , that bringeth no ordinance , nor other weapon into the field , with him , save his sword , and bow and arrows . They have also within it divers field-pieces , which they use as occasion doth require . Of pieces for the field they carrie no great store , when they warre against the Tartar : but when they deal with the Polonian ( of whose forces they make more account ) they go better furnished with all kind of munition , and other necessary provisions . It is thought that no prince of Christendome hath better store of munition then the Russe Emperour . And it may partly appear by the Artillerie house at Mosko , where are of all sorts of great ordinance , all brasse pieces very fair , to an exceeding great number . The Russe souldier is thought to be better at his defence within some castle or town , then he is abroad at a set pitched field . Which is ever noted in the practice of his warres , and namely at the siege of Vobsko , about eight years since : where he repulsed the Polonian king Stepan Batore , with his whole armie of 100000. men , and forced him in the end to give over his siege , with the losse of many of his best Captains and souldiers . Put in a set field the Russe is noted to have ever the worse of the Polonian and Sweden . If any behave himself more valian●ly then the rest , or do any speciall piece of service , the Emperour sendeth him a piece of gold , stamped with the Image of Saint George on horseback . Which they hang on their sleeves , and set in their caps . And this is accounted the greatest honour they can receive for any service they do . CHAP. XVIII . Of their Colonies , and maintaining of their conquests , or purchases by force . THe Russe Emperours of late years have very much enlarged their dominions and territories . Their first conquest after the Dukedome of Mosko ( for before that time they were but Dukes of Volodomer , as before was said ) was the Citie and Dukedome of Novograd on the West ▪ and Northwest side , which was no small enlargement of their dominion , and strengthning to them for the winning of the rest . This was done by Juan great grandfather to Theodore now Emperour , about the year 1480. The same began likewise to encroch upon the countreys of Lituania , and Livonia , but the conquest onely intended , and attempted by him upon some part of those countreys , was pursued and performed by his sonne Basileus , who first wonne the Citie and Dukedome of Plesko , afterwards the Citie and Dukedome of Smolensko , and many other fair towns , with a large territorie belonging unto them , about the year 1514. These victories against the Lettoes or Lituanians in the time of Alexander their Duke , he atchieved rather by advantage of civil dissentions , and treasons among themselves , then by any great policie , or force of his own . But all this was lost again by his sonne Juan Vasilowich , about eight or nine years past , upon composition with the Polonian king Stepan Batore : whereunto he was forced by the advantages which the Pole had then of him , by reason of the foil he had given him before , and the disquietnesse of his own state at home . Onely the Russe Emperour at this time hath left him on that side his countrey , the cities of Smolensko , Vitobsko , Cheringo and Beala gorod in Lituania . In Livonia , not a town , nor one foot of ground . When Basileus first conquered those countreys , he suffered the natives to keep their possessions , and to inhabite all their towns , onely paying him a tribute , under the government of his Russe Captains . But by their conspiracies and attempts not long after , he was taught to deal more surely with them . And so coming upon them the second time , he killed and carried away with him three parts of foure , which he gave or sold to the Tartars that served him in those warres , and in stead of them placed there his Russes , so many as might overmatch the rest , with certain garrisons of strength besides . Wherein notwithstanding this oversight was committed , for that ( taking away with him the upland , or countrey people that should have tilled the ground , and might easily have been kept in order without any danger , by other good policies ) he was driven afterwards many years together , to victuall the countrey ( specially the great towns ) out of his own countrey of Russia , the soil lying there in the mean while waste , and untilled . The like fell out at the port of Narue in Liefland , where his sonne Juan Vasilowich devised to build a town , and a castle on the other side the river , called Juan gorod , to keep the town and countrey in subjection . The Castle he caused to be so built , and fortified , that it was thought to be invincible . And when it was finished , for reward to the Architect ( that was a Polonian ) he put out both his eyes , to make him unable to build the like again . But having left the natives all within their own countrey , without abating their number or strength , the town and castle not long after was betrayed , and surrendred again to the king of Sweden . On the South-east-side they have got the kingdomes of Cazan , and Astracan . These were wonne from the Tartar , by the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich , father to the Emperour that now is : the one about 35. the other about 33. years ago Northward out of the countrey of Siberia , he hath laid unto his realm , a great breadth and length of ground , from wichida to the river of Obba , about a 1000. miles space : so that he is bold to write himself now , The great Commander of Siberia . The countreys likewise of Permia , and Pechora , are a divers people and language from the Russe , overcome not long since , and that rather by threatning , and shaking of the sword ; then by any actuall sorce : as being a weak and naked people , without means to resist . That which the Russe hath in his present possession , he keepeth on this sort . In his foure cheif border towns of Vobsko , Smolensko , Ast●acan ; and Cazan , he hath certain of his Counsell , not of the greatest Nobilitie , but of greatest trust , which have more authoritie within their precincts ( for the countenancing and strengthning of their government there ) then the other Dukes that are set to govern in other places , as was noted before ▪ in the manner of ordering their Provinces . These he changeth sometime every year , sometime every second or third year , but exceedeth not that time , except upon very speciall trust , and good liking of the partie , and his service : lest by enlarging of their time , they might grow into some familiaritie with the enemie ( as some have done ) being so farre out of sight . The towns besides are very strongly fenced with trenches , castles , and store of munition , and have garrisons within them , to the number of two or three thousand apiece . They are stored with victuall if any siege should come upon them , for the space of two or three years beforehand . The foure castles of Smolensko , Vobsko , Cazan and Astracan , he hath made very strong to bear out any siege : so that it is thought that those towns are impregnable . As for the countreys of Pechora and Permia , and that part of Siberia , which he hath now under him , they are kept by as easie means , as they were first got . viz. rather by shewing , then by using of arms . First , he hath stored the Countrey with as many Russes as there are natives , and hath there some few souldiers in garrison , enough to ●eep them under . Secondly , his Officers and Magistrates there , are of his own Russe people , and he changeth them very often , viz. every year twise or thrise : notwithstanding there be no great fear of any innovation . Thirdly , he divideth them into many small governments , like a staff broke in many small pieces : so that they have no strength being severed , which was but little neither when they were all in one . Fourthly , he provideth that the people of the Countrey have neither armour , nor money , being taxed and pilled so often as he thinketh good without any means to shake off that yoke , or to relieve themselves . In Siberia ( where he goeth on in pursuing his conquest ) he hath divers castles and garrisons , to the number of six thousand souldiers of Russes , and Polonians , and sendeth many new supplies thither , to plant and to inhabite , as he winneth ground . At this time besides he hath gotten the kings brother of Siberia , allured by certain of his Capt●●ns , to leave his own countrey by offers of great entertainment , and pleasanter life with the Russe Emperour , then he had in Siberia He was brought in this last year , and is now with the Emperour at Mosko well entertained . This may be said of the Russe practise , wheresoever he ruleth , either by right of inheritance , or by conquest , First , he bereaveth the countrey of armour and other means of defence , which he permitteth to none but to his Boiarskeis onely . Secondly , he robbeth them continually of their money , and dommodities , and leaveth them hare with nothing but their bodies and lives , within certain years , compasse . Thirdly , he renteth and divideth his territories into many small pieces by severall governments , so that none hath much under him to make any strength , though he had other oportunities . Fourthly , he governeth his countreys by men of small reputation , and no power of themselves , and strangers in those places where their government lieth . Fiftly , he changeth his governours once a year ordinarily , that there grow no great liking nor intirenesse betwixt the people and them , nor acquaintance with the enemy if they lie towards the borders . Sixthly , he appointeth in one and the same place adversary governours , the one to be as controller of the other , as the Dukes and Diacks : where ( by means of their envies and emulations ) there is lesse hurt to be feared by their agreement , and himself is better informed what is done amisse . Seventhly , he sendeth many times into every Province secret messengers of speciall trust about him as intelligencers , to p●i● and hearken out what is doing , and what is amisse there . And this is ordinary , though it be sudden , and unknown what time they will come . CHAP. XIX . Of the Tartars , and other borderers to the Countrey of Russia , with whom they have most to do in warre and peace . THeir neighbours with whom they have greatest dealings and intercourse , both in peace and warre , are first the Tartar : Secondly the Polonian , whom the Russe calleth Laches , noting the first authour or founder of the Nation , who was called Laches or Leches , where unto is added Po , which signifieth People , and so is made Polaches , that is , the People or posteritie of Laches : which the Latines after their manner of writing call Polanos : The third are the Swedens . The Polonians and Swedens are herter known to these parts of Europe then are the Tartars , that are further off from us ( as being of Asia ) and divided into many tribes , different both in name , and government one from another . The greatest and mightiest of them is the Chrim Tartar , ( whom some call the Great Cham ) that lieth South , and Southeastward from Russia , and doth most annoy the Countrey by often invasions , commonly once every year , sometimes entring very farre within the inland parts . In the year 1571. he came as farre as the citie of Mosko , with an armie of 200000. men , without any battel or resistance at all , for that the Russe Emperour ( then ( Juan Vasilowich ) leading forth his armie to encounter with him , marched a wrong way : but as it was thought of very purpose , as not daring to adventure the field , by reason that he doubted his Nobilitie , and chief Captains , of a meaning to betray him to the Tartar. The citie he took not , but fired the Suburbs , which by reason of the buildings ( which is all of wood without any stone , brick , or lime , save certain outrooms ) kindled so quickly , and went on with such rage as that it consumed the greatest part of the citie almost within the space of foure houres , being of 30. miles or more of compasse . Then might you have seen a lamentable spectacle : besides the huge and mighty flame of the citie all on light fire , the people burning in their houses and streets , but most of all of such as laboured to passe out of the gates furthest from the enemie , where meeting together in a mighty throng , and so pressing every man to prevent another , wedged themselves so fast within the gate , and streets near unto it , as that three ranks walked one upon the others head , the uppermost treading down those that were lower : so that there perished at that time ( as was said ) by the fire and the presse , the number of 800000. people or more . The Chrim thus having fired the Citie , and fed his eyes with the sight of it all on a light flame , returned with his armie , and sent to the Russe Emperour a knife ( as was said ) to stick himself withall : upbraiding thi● lesse , and his desperate case , as not daring either to meet his enemie in the field , nor to trust his friends or subjects at home . The prnicipall cause of this continuall quarrel betwixt the Russe and the Chrim , is for the right of certain border parts claimed by the Tartar , but possessed by the Russe . The Tartar alledgeth that besides Astracan & Cazan ( that are the ancient possession of the East Tartar ) the whole countrey from his bounds North and Westward , so farre as the citie of Mosko , and Mosko it self , pertaineth to his right . Which seemeth to have been true by the report of the Russes themselves , that tell of a certain homage that was done by the Russe Emperour every year to the Great Chrim or Cham , the Russe Emperour standing on foot and feeding the Chrims horse ( himself sitting on his back ) with oats out of his own cap , in stead of a bowl or manger , and that within the castle of Mosko . And this homage ( they say ) was done till the time of Basileus grandfather to this man. Who surprising the Chrim Emperour by a stratagem , done by one of his Nobilitie ( called Juan Demetrowich Belschey ) was content with this ransome , viz. with the changing of this homage into a tribute of furres : which afterwards also was denied to be paied by this Emperours father . Hereupon they continue the quarrel , the Russe defending his countrey , and that which he hath wonne , the Chrim Tartar invading him once or twice every year , sometime about Whitsuntide , but oftner in Harvest . What time if the great Cham or Chrim come in his own person , he bringeth with him a great armie of 100000. or 200000. men . Otherwise they make short and sudden roads into the countrey with lesser numbers , funning about the list of the border as wild geese flie , invading and retiring where they see advantage . Their common practice ( being very populous ) is to make divers armies , and so drawing the Russe to one or two places of the frontiers , to invade at some other place that is left without defence . Their manner of fight , or ordering of their forces , is much after the Russe manner ( spoken of before ) save that they are all horsemen , and carrie nothing else but a bow , a sheaf of arrows , and a falcon sword after the Turkish fashion . They are very expert horsemen , and use to shoot as readily backward as forward . Some will have a horsemans staff like to a bore spear , besides their other weapons . The common souldier hath no other armour then his ordinary apparel , viz. a black sheeps skin with the wool side outward in the day-time , and inward in the night-time , with a cap of the same . But their Marseys or Noblemen imitate the Turk both in apparel , and armour . When they are to passe over a river with their armie , they tie three or foure horses together , and taking long poles or pieces of wood , bind them fast to the tails of their horse : so sitting on the poles they drive their horse over . At handie strokes ( when they come to joyn battel ) they are accounted farre better men then the Russe people , fierce by nature , but more hardie and bloudie by continuall practice of warre , as men knowing no arts of peace , nor any civil practice . Yet their subtiltie is more then may seem to agree with their barbarous condition . By reason they are practised to invade continually , and to robbe their neighbours that border about them , they are very pregnant and ready-witted to devise stratagems upon the sudden for their better advantage : As in their warre against Beala the fourth king of Hungarie , whom they invaded with 500000. men , and obtained against him a great victorie . Where among other , having slain his Chancellour , called Nicholas Schinick , they found about him the Kings privie seal . Whereupon they devised presen●ly to counterfeit letters in the Kings name , to the cities and towns next about the place , where the field was fought , with charge that in no case they should convey themselves ; and their goods out of their dwellings , where they might abide safely without all fear of danger , and not leave the countrey desolate to the possession of so vile and barbarous an enemie , as was the Tartar nation , terming themselves in all reprochfull manner . For notwithstanding he had lost his carriages , with some few straglers that had marched disorderly , yet he doubted not but to recover that lossé , with the accesse of a notable victorie , if the savage Tartar durst abide him in the field . To this purpose having written their letters in the Polish character , by certain young men whom they took in the field , and signed them with the Kings seal , they dispatched them forth to all the quarters of Hungarie , that lay near about the place . Whereupon the Ungarians , that were now flying away with their goods , wives , and children , upon the rumour of the Kings overthrow , taking comfort of these counter feit letters , stayed at home . And so were made a prey , being surprised on the sudden by this huge number of these Tartars , that had compassed them about before they were aware . When they besiege a town or fort , they offer much parley , and send many flattering messages to perswade a surrendrie , promising all things that the inhabitants will require ; but being once possessed of the place , they use all manner of hostilitie , and crueltie . This they do upon a rule they have , viz. that Justice is to be practised but towards their own . They encounter not lightly , but they have some ambush , whereunto ( having once shewed themselves , and made some short conflict ) they retire , as repulsed for fear , and so draw the enemie into it if they can . But the Russe , being well acquainted with their practice , is more warie of them . When they come a roving with some small number , they set on horseback counterfeit shapes of men , that their number may seem greater . When they make any onset their manner is to make a great-shout , crying all out together , Olla , Billa , Olla Billa , God help us , God help us . They contemne death so much , as that they choose rather to die then to yield to their enemie , and are seen when they are slain to bite the very weapon , when they are past striking , or helping of themselves . Wherein appeareth how different the Tartar is in his desperate courage from the Russe and Turk . For the Russe Souldier , if he begin once to retire , putteth all his safetie in his speedie flight ; and if once he be taken by his enemie , he neither defendeth himself , nor intreateth for his life , as reckoning straight to die : The Turk commonly , when he is past hope of escaping , falleth to intreatie , and casteth away his weapon , offereth both his hands , and holdeth them up , as it were to be tied , hoping to save his life by offering himself bondslave . The chief bootie the Tartars seek for in all their warres , is to get store of captives , specially young boyes and girls , whom they sell to the Turks , or other their neighbours . To this purpose they take with them great baskets made like bakers panniers to carrie them tenderly , and if any of them happen to tire , or to be sick on the way , they dash him against the ground , or some tree , and so leave him dead : The souldiers are not troubled with keeping the captives , and the other bootie , for hindering the execution of their warres , but they have certain bands that intend nothing else , appointed of purpose to receive and keep the captives and the other prey . The Russe borders ( being used to their invasions lightly every year in the summer ) keep few other cattel on the border parts , save swine onely , which the Tartar will not touch nor drive away with him : for that he is of the Turkish religion , and will eat no swines flesh . Of Christ our Saviour they confesse as much as doth the Turk in his Alcoran , viz. that he came of the Angel Gabriel , and the Virgin Marie , that he was a great Prophet , and shall be the Judge of the world at the last day . In other matters likewise they are much ordered after the manner and direction of the Turk , having felt the Turkish forces , when he wonne from them Azou , and Caffa , with some other towns about the Euxine or Black sea , that were before tributaries to the Chrim Tartar. So that now the Emperour of the Chrims for the most part is chosen some one of the Nobilitie whom the Turk doth commend : whereby it is brought now to that passe , that the Chrim Tartar giveth to the Turk the tenth part of the spoil , which he getteth in his warres against the Christians . Herein they differ from the Turkish religion , for that they have certain idole puppets made of silk or like stuff , of the fashion of a man , which they fasten to the doore of their walking houses , to be as Janusses or keepers of the house . And these idoles are made not by all , but by certain religious women , which they have among them for that , and like uses . They have besides the image of their King or great Cham , of an huge bignesse , which they erect at every stage when the armie marcheth : and this every one must bend and bow unto it as he passeth by it , be he Tartar or stranger . They are much given to witchcraft , and ominous conjectures , upon every accident which they heare or see . In making of marriages they have no regard of alliance or consanguinitie . Onely with his mother , sister , and daughter , a man may not mar●… ; and though he take the woman ●…o his house , and accompanie with her , yet he accounteth her not for his wife , till he have a child by her . Then he beginneth to take à dowrie of her friends , of horse , sheep , kine ; &c. If she be barren after a certain time , he turneth her home again . Under the Emperour they have certain Dukes , whom they call Morseis or Divoymorseis , that rule over a certain number of 10000. 20000 or 40000. a piece , which they call hoords . When the Emperour hath any use of them to serve in his warres they are bound to come , and to bring with them their souldiers to a certain number , every man with his two horse at the least , the one to ride on , the other to kill , when it cometh to his turn to have his horse eaten . For their chief victuall is horse-flesh , which they eat without bread , or any other thing with it . So that if a Tartar be taken by a Russe , he shall be sure lightly to find a horse legge , or some other part of him at his saddle bow . This last year when I was at the Mosko , came in one Kiriach Morsey nephew to the Emperour of the Chrims that now is ( whose Father was Emperour before ) accompanied with 300. Tartars , and his two wives , whereof one was his brothers widdow . Where being entertained in very good sort after the Russe manner , he had sent unto his lodging for his welcome , to be made ready for his supper and his companies , two very large and fat horses , ready flayed in a sled . They preferre it before other flesh , because the meat is stronger ( as they say ) then beef , mutton , and such like . And yet ( which is marvell ) though they serve all as horsemen in the war r●… , and eat all of horse-flesh , there are brought yearly to the Mosko to be exchanged for other commodities 30. or 40. thousand Tartar horse , which they call Cones . They keep also great heards of kine , and flocks of black sheep , rather for the skinnes and milk ( which they carry with them in great bottels ) then for the use of the flesh , though sometimes they eat of it . Some use they have of rise , figs , and other fruits . They drink milk or ●…n bloud , and for the most part ●…d them both together . They use s●●etimes as they travell by the way to let their horse bloud in a vein , and to drink it warm , as it cometh from his body . Towns they plant none , nor other standing buildings , but have walking houses , which the Latines call Veji , built upon wheels like a shepherds cottage . These they draw with them whithersoever they go , driving their cattell with them . And when they come to their stage or-standing place , they plant their cart-houses very orderly in a rank , and so make the form of streets , and of a large town . And this is the manner of the Emperour himself , who hath no other seat of his Empire but an Agora , or town of wood , that moveth with him whithersoever he goeth . As for the fixed and standing building used in other countreys , they say they are unwholesome and unpleasant . They begin to move their houses and cattell in the spring time from the S●…h part of their Countrey toward● the North parts . And so driving on till they have grased all up to the furthest part Northward , they return back again towards their South countrey ( where they continue all the winter ) by ten or twelve miles a stage : in the mean while the grasse being sprung up again , to serve for their cattell as they return . From the border of the Shalcan towards the Caspian sea , to the Russe frontiers , they have a goodly countrey , specially on the South and Southeast parts , but lost for lack of tillage . Of money they have no use at all , and therefore preferre brasse and steel before other mettals , specially bullate , which they use for swords , knives and other necessaries . As for gold and silver they neglect it of very purpose ( as they do all tillage of their ground ) to be more free for their wandring kind of life , and to keep their countrey lesse subject to invasions . Which giveth them great advantage against all their neighbours , ever invading , and never being invaded . Such as have taken upon them to invade their Countr●● ( as of old time Cyrus and Darius Hy●aspis , on the East and Southeast side ) have done it with very ill successe , as we ●…d in the stories written of those times . For their manner is when any will invade them , to allure and draw them on by flying and reculing ( as if they were afraid ) till they have drawn them some good way within their countrey . Then when they begin to want victuall and other necessaries ( as needs they must where nothing is to be had ) to stop up the passages , and inclose them with multitudes . By which stratagem ( as we read in Laonicue Chalcacondylas in his Turkish storie ) they had welnigh surprised the great and huge armie of Tamerlan , but that he retired with all speed he could towards the river Tanais , or Don , not without great losse of his men and carriages . In the storie of Pachymerius the Greek ( which he wrote of the Emperours of Constantinople from the beginning of the reigne of Michael Palaeologus to the time of Andronicus the elder ) I remember he telleth to the same purpose of one Nogas a Tartarian captain under Cazan the Emperour of the East Tartars ( of whom the citie and kingdome of ( a zan may seem to have taken the denomination ) who refused a present of pearl and other jewels sent unto him from Michael Palaeologus : asking withall , for what use they served , and whether they were good to keep away sicknesse , death , or other misfortunes of this life , or no. So that it seemeth they have ever or long time been of that mind to value things no further then by the use , and necessitie for which they serve . For person and complexion they have broad and flat visages , of a tanned colour into yellow and black , fierce and cruell looks , thin haired upon the upper lip , and pit of the chinne , light and nimble bodied , with short legs , as if they were made naturally for horsemen , whereto they practise themselves from their childhood , seldome going afoot about any businesse . Their speech is very sudden and loud , speaking as it were out of a deep hollow throat . When they sing , you would think a cow lowed , or some great bandogge howled . Their greatest exercise is shooting , wherein they train up their children from their very infancie , not suffering them to eat , till they have shot near the mark within a certain scantling . They are the very same that sometimes were called Scythae Nomades , or the Scythian Shepherds , by the Greeks and Latines . Some think that the Turks took their beginning from the nation of the Chrim Tartars . Of which opinion is Laonicus Chalcocondylas the Greek Historiographer , in his first book of his Turkish storie . Wherein he followeth divers very probable conjectures . The first taken from the very name it self , for that the word Turk signifieth a shepherd , or one that followeth a vagrant and wild kind of life . By which name these Scythian Tartars have ever been noted , being called by the Greeks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , or the Scythian shepherds . His second reason , because the Turks ( in his time ) that dwelt in Asia the lesse , to wit , in Lydia , Coria , Phrygia , and Cappadocia , spake the very same language that these Tartars did , that dwelt betwixt the river Tanais or Don , and the countrey of Sarmatia , which ( as is well known ) are these Tartars called Chrims . At this time also the whole nation of the Turks differ not much in their common speech from the Tartar language . Thirdly , because the Turk and the Chrim Tartar agree so well together , as well in religion , as in matter of traffick , never invading or injuring one another , save that the Turk ( since Laonicus his time ) hath encroched upon some towns upon the Euxin sea , that before pertained to the Chrim Tartar. Fourthly , because Ortogules sonne to Oguzalpes , and father to Otoman ( the first of name of the Turkish nation ) made his first rodes out of those parts of Asia upon the next borderers , till he came towards the countreys about the hill Taurus , where he overcame the Greeks that inhabited there : and so enlarged the name and territorie of the Turkish nation , till he came to Eubea and Attica , and other parts of Greece . This is the opinion of Laonicus , who lived among the Turks in the time of Amurat the sixth Turkish Emperour , about the year 1400. when the memorie of their originall was more fresh ; and therefore the likelier he was to hit the truth . There are divers other Tartars that border upon Russia , as the Nagaies , the Cheremissens , the Mordwites , the Chircasses , and the Sbalcans , which all differ in name more then in regiment , or other condition , from the Chrim Tartar , except the Chircasses that border Southwest , towards Lituania , and are farre more civil then the rest of the Tartars , of a comely person , and of a stately behaviour , as applying themselves to the fashion of the Polonian . Some of them have subjected themselves to the kings of Poland , and professe Christianitie . The Nagay lieth Eastward , and is reckoned for the best man of warre among all the Tartars , but very savage , and cruel above all the rest . The Cheremissen Tartar , that lieth betwixt the Russe and the Nagay , are of two sorts , the Lugavoy ( that is of the valley ) and the Nagornay or of the hillie countrey . These have much troubled the Emperours of Russia . And therefore they are content now to buy peace of them , under pretence of giving a yearly pension of Russe commodities to their Morseis or Divoymorseis , that are chief of their tribes . For which also they are bound to serve them in their warres , under certain conditions . They are said to be just and true in their dealings ; and for that cause they hate the Russe people , whom they account to be double and false in all their dealing . And therefore the common sort are very unwilling to keep agreement with them , but that they are kept in by their Morseis or Dukes , for their pensions sake . The most rude and barbarous is counted the Mordwite Tartar , that hath many self-fashions , and strange kinds of behaviour , differing from the rest . For his religion , though he acknowledge one god , yet his manner is to worship for god that living thing that he first meeteth in the morning , and to swear by it all that whole day , whether it be horse , dog , cat , or whatsoever else it be . When his friend dieth , he killeth his best horse , and having flayed off the skin he carrieth it on high upon a long pole before the corps to the place of buriall . This he doth ( as the Russe saith ) that his friend may have a good horse to carrie him to heaven : but it is likelier to declare his love towards his dead friend , in that he will have to die with him the best thing that he hath . Next to the kingdome of Astracan , that is the furthest part South-eastward of the Russe dominion , lieth the Shalcan , and the countrey of Media : whither the Russe merchants trade for raw silks , syndon , saphion , skins , and other commodities . The chief towns of Media where the Russe tradeth are Derbent ( built by Alexander the great , as the inhabitants say ) and Zamachie , where the staple is kept for raw silks . Their manner is in the Spring-time to revive the silk-worms ( that lie dead all the Winter ) by laying them in the warm sunne , and ( to hasten their quickning that they may sooner go to work ) to put them into bags , and so to hang them under their childrens arms . As for the worm called Chrinisin ( as we call it chrymson ) that maketh coloured silk , it is bred not in Media but in Assyria . This trade to Derbent & Samachie for raw silks , and other commodities of that countrey , as also into Persiae , and Bougharia , down the riuer Volgha , and through the Caspian sea , is permitted as well to the English , as to the Russe merchants , by the Emperours last grant at my being there . Which he accounteth for a very speciall favour , and might prove indeed very beneficiall to our English merchants , if the trade were well and orderly used . The whole nation of the Tartars are utterly void of all learning , and without written Law. Yet certain rules they have which they hold by tradition , common to all the Hoords for the practice of their life : Which are of this sort , 1. To obey their Emperour and other Magistrates , whatsoever they command about the publick service . 2. Except for the publick behoof , every man to be free and out of controllment . 3. No private man to possesse any lands , but the whole countrey to be as a common . 4. To neglect all daintinesse and varietie of meats , and to content themselves with that which cometh next to hand , for more hardnesse , and readinesse in the executing of their affairs . 5. To wear any base attire , and to patch their clothes , whether there be any need or not : that when there 〈◊〉 need , it be no shame to wear a patcht coat . 6. To take or steal from any stranger whatsoever they can get , as being enemies to all men , save to such as will subject themselves to them . 7. Towards their own hoord and nation to be true in word , and in deed . 8. To suffer no stranger to come within the Realm : If any do , the same to be bondslave to him that first taketh him , except such merchants and other as have the Tartar Bull or pasport about them . CHAP. XX. Of the Permians , Samoites , and Lappes . THe Permians and Samoites that lie from Russia North and Northeast , are thought likewise to have taken their beginning from the Tartar kind . And it may partly be ghessed by the fashion of their countenance , as having all broad and flat faces , as the Tartars have , except the Chirchasses . The Bermians are accounted for a very ancient people . They are now subject to the Russe . They live by hunting , and trading with their furres , as doth also the Samoit , that dwelleth more towards the North-sea . The Samoit hath his name ( as the Russe saith ) of eating himself : as if in times past they lived as the Cannibals , eating one another . Which they make more probable , because at this time they eat all kind of raw flesh , whatsoever it be , even the very carrion that lieth in the ditch . But as the Samoits themselves will say , they were called Samoie , that is of themselves , as though they were Indigenae , or people bred upon that very soil , that never changed their seat from one place to another , as most nations have done . They are subject at this time to the Emperour of Russia . I talked with certain of them , and find that they acknowledge one God : but represent him by such things as they have most use and good by . And therefore they worship the Sunne , the Ollen , the Losh , and such like . As for the storie of Slata Baba or the Golden hagge ( which I have read in some maps , and descriptions of these countreys , to be an idole after the form of an old woman ) that being demanded by the Priest , giveth them certain Oracles concerning the successe and event of things , I found it to be but a very fable . Onely in the province of Obdoria upon the Sea-side , near to the mouth of the great river Obba , there is a rock which naturally ( being somewhat helped by imagination ) may seem to bear the shape of a ragged woman , with a child in her arms ( as the rock by the North cape the shape of a Frier ) where the Obdorian Samoites use much to resort , by reason of the commoditie of the place for fishing : and there sometime ( as their manner is ) conceive and practise their sorceries , and ominous conjecturings about the good or bad speed of their journeys , fishings , huntings , and such like . They are clad in Seal skins , with the hairie side outwards down as low as the knees , with their breeches and netherstocks of the same , both men & women . They are all black haired , naturally beardlesse . And therefore the men are hardly discerned from the women by their looks : save that the women wear a lock of hair down along both their ears . They live in a manner a wild and savage life , roving still from one place of the countrey to the other , without any propertie of house or land more to one then to another . Their loader or directour in every company is their Papa or Priest. On the North-side of Russia next to Corelia , lieth the countrey of Lappia , which reacheth in length from the furthest point . Northward ( towards the Northcape ) to the furthest part Southeast ( which the Russe calleth Sweetnesse or Holie nose , the English men Capegrace ) about 345. verst or miles . From Sweetnesse to Gandelox by the way of Versega ( which measureth the breadth of that countrey ) is 90. miles or thereabouts . The whole countrey in a manner is either lakes , or mountains , which towards the Sea-side are called Tondro , because they are all of hard and craggie rock ; but the inland parts are well furnished with woods , that grow on the hills fides , the lakes lying between . Their diet is very bare and simple . Bread they have none , but feed onely upon fish and fowl . They are subject to the Emperour of Russia , and the two Kings of Sweden and Denmark : which all exact tribute and custome of them ( as was said before ) but the Emperour of Russia beareth the greatest hand over them , and exacts of them farre more then the rest . The opinion is that they were first termed Lappes of their brief and short speech . The Russe divideth the whole nation of the Lappes into two sorts . The one they call Nowremanskoy Lapary , that is , the Norvegian Lappes : because they be of the Danish religion . For the Danes and Norvegians they account for one people . The other that have no religion at all , but live as brute and Heathenish people , without God in the world , they call Dikoy Lapary , or the wild Lappes . The whose nation is utterly unlearned , having not so much as the use of any Alphabet , or letter among them . For practice of witchcraft and sorcerie they passe all nations in the world : Though for the enchanting of ships that sail along their coast ( as I have heard it reported ) and their giving of winds good to their friends , and contrary to other , whom they mean to hurt , by tying of certain knots upon a rope ( somewhat like to the tale of Aeolus his windbag ) is a very fable , devised ( as may seem ) by themselves , to terrifie sailers for coming near their coast . Their weapons are the long bow , and handgunne , wherein they excell , as well for quicknesse to charge and discharge , as for nearnesse at the mark , by reason of their continuall practice ( whereto they are forced ) of shooting at wild fowl . Their manner is in Summer time to come down in great companies to the sea-side , to Wardhuyse , Cola , Kegor , and the bay of Vedagoba , and there to fish for Cod , Salmon , and But-fish which they sell to the Russes , Danes , and Norvegians , and now of late to the English men that trade thither with cloth , which they exchange with the Lappes and Corelians for their fish , oyl , and furres , whereof also they have some store . They hold their mart at Cola on S. Peters day , what time the Captain of Wardhuyse ( that is resiant there for the king of Denmark ) must be present , or at least send his deputie to set prices upon their stockfish , trane-oyl , furres , and other commodities ; as also the Russe Emperours customer , or tribute-taker , to receive his custome , which is ever payed before any thing can be bought , or sold. When their fishing is done , their manner is to draw their carbasses or boats on shore , and there to leave them with the keel turned upwards till the next spring tide . Their travell to and fro is upon ●leds , drawen by the Olen deer : which they use to turn a grasing all the summer time , in an island called Kilden ( of a very good soil compared with other parts of that countrey ) and towards the winter time , when the snow beginneth to fall , they fetch them home again for the use of their ●led . CHAP. XXI . Of their Ecclesiasticall state , with their Church offices . COncerning the government of their Church , it is framed altogether after the manner of the Greek , as being a part of that Church , and never acknowledging the jurisdiction of the Latine Church usurped by the Pope . That I may keep a better measure in describing their ceremonies ; then they in the using them ( wherein they are infinite ) I will note briefly , First , what Ecclesiasticall degrees or offices they have , with the jurisdiction and practise of them . Secondly , what doctrine they hold in matter of religion . Thirdly , what liturgie , or form of service they use in their Churches , with the manner of their administring the Sacraments . Fourthly , what other strange ceremonies and superstitious devotions are used among them . Their offices or degrees of Church-men , are as many in number , and the same in a manner both in name and degree , that were in the Western churches . First they have their Patriarch , then their Metropolites , their Archbishops , their Uladikey or Bishops , their Protopapes or Archpriests , their Papes or Priests , their Deacons , Friers , Monks , Nunnes , and Eremites . Their Patriarch or chief directour in matter of religion , untill this last year , was of the citie of Constantinople ( whom they called the Patriarch of Sio ) because being driven by the Turk out of Canstantinople ( the s●at of his Empire ) he removed to the Isle Sio , sometimes called Chio , and there placed his Patriarchicall sea . So that the Emperours , and clergie of Russia , were wont yearly to send gifts thither , and to acknowledge a spirituall kind of homage and subjection due to him , and to that Church . Which custome they have held ( as it seemeth ) ever since they professed the Christian religion . Which how long it hath been , I could not well learn , for that they have no story or monument of antiquitie ( that I could hear of ) to shew what hath been done in times past within their countrey , concerning either Church or Common wealth matters . Onely I heare a report among them , that about three hundred years since there was a marriage betwixt the Emperour of Constantinople , and the kings daughter of that countrey , who at the first denied to joyn his daughter in marriage with the Greek Emperour , because he was of the Christian religion . Which agreeth well with that I find in the storie of Laonicus Chalcacondylas concerning Turkish affairs in his fourth book , where he speaketh of such a marriage betwixt John the Greek Emperour , and the Kings daughter of Sarmatia . And this argueth out of their own report , that at that time they had not received the Christian religion : as also that they were converted to the faith , and withall perverted at the very same time , receiving the doctrine of the Gospel corrupted with superstitions even at the first when they took it from the Greek Church , which it self then was degenerate , and corrupted with many superstitions and foul errours , both in doctrine and discipline , as may appear by the story of Nicephorus Gregoras , in his 8. and 9. books . But as touching the time of their conversion to the Christian faith , I suppose rather that it is mistaken by the Russe , for that which I find in the Polonian Storie the second book the third chapter : where it is said that about the year 990. ●lodomirus Duke of Russia married one Anne sister to Basilius and Constanti●us , brothers , and Emperours of Constantinople . Whereupon the Russe received the faith and profession of Christ. Which though it be somewhat more ancient then the time noted before out of the Russe report , yet it falleth out all to one reckoning , touching this point , viz. in what truth and sinceritie of doctrine the Russe received the first stamp of religion , forasmuch as the Greek church at that time also was many wayes infected with errour and superstition . At my being there , the year 1588. came unto the Mosko the Patriarch of Constantinople or Sio , called Hieronymo , being banished ( as some said ) by the Turk , as some other reported by the Greek clergie deprived . The Emperour , being given altogether to superstitious devotions , gave him great entertainment . Before his coming to Mosko , he had been in Italy with the Pope , as was reported then by some of his companie . His errand was to consult with the Emperour concerning these points ▪ First about a league to passe betwixt him and the king of Spain , as the meetest Prince to joyn with him in opposition against the Turk . To which purpose also Embassages had passed betwixt the Russe and the Persian . Likewise from the Georgians to the Emperour of Russia , to joyn league ●ogether for the invading of the Turk ●n all sides of his dominion , taking ●…e advantage of the simple qualitie ●f the Turk that now is . This trea●…e was helped forward by the Emperours Embassadour of Almain , ●…nt at the same time to solicite an ●…vasion upon the parts of Polonia , ●hat lie towards Rusland , and to bor●…ow money of the Russe Emperour , ●…o pursue the warre for his brother ●…aximilian , against the Swedens ●onne now king of Poland . But this ●onsultation concerning a league be●…wixt the Russe and the Spaniard ( which was in some forwardnesse at ●y coming to Mosko , and already ●n● appointed for Embassage into ●pain ) was marred , by means of the overthrow given to the Spanish king by her Majestie , the Queen of England , this last year . Which made ●he Russe Emperour and his Counsell ●o give a sadder countenance to the English Embassadour at that time , for that they were disappointed of so good a policie , as was this conjunction supposed to be betwixt them and ●he Spanish . His second purpose ( whereto the first served as an introduction ) was in revenge of the Turk and the Greek clergie , that had thrust him from his seat , to treat with them about the reducing of the Russe Church under the Pope of Rome . Wherein it may seem that coming lately from Rome , he was set on by the Pope , who hath attempted the same many times before , though all in vain , and namely in the time of the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich , by one Anthony his Legate ; But thought this belike a farre better mean to obtain his purpose by treatie and mediation of their own Patriarch . But this not succeeding , the Patriarch fell to a third point of treatie , concerning the resignation of his Patriarchship , and translation of the Sea from Constantinople or Sio to the citie of Mosko . Which was so well liked , and intertained by the Emperour ( as a matter of high religion and policie ) that no other treatie ( specially of forein Embassages ) could be heard or regarded till that matter was concluded . The reasons wherewith the Patriarch perswaded the translating of his Sea to the citie of Mosko were these in effect : First , for that the Sea of the Patriarch was under the Turk that is enemie to the faith , and therefore to be removed into some other countrey of Christian profession . Secondly , because the Russe Church was the onely naturall daughter of the Greek at this time , and holdeth the same doctrine and ceremonies with it , the rest being all subject to the Turk , and fallen away from the right profession . Wherein the subtill Greek , to make the better market of his broken ware , advanced the honour that would grow to the Emperour , and his countrey , to have the Patriarchs seat translated into the ●hief citie and seat of his Empire . As for the right of translating the Sea , and appointing his successour , he made no doubt of it , but that it pertained wholly to himself . So the Emperour and his Counsell , with the principall of his clergie , being assembled at the Mo●ko it was determined that the Metropolite of Mosko should become Patriarch of the whole Greek Church , and have the same full authoritie and jurisdiction that pertained before to the Patriarch of Constantinople or Sin. And that it might be done with more order and solemnitie , the 25. of Januarie , 1588. the Greek Patriarch accompanied with the Russe Clergie went to the great Church of Precheste , or our Ladie , within the Emperours castle ( having first wandred through the whole citie in manner of a procession , and blessing the people with his two fingers ) where he made an Oration , and delivered his resignation in an instrument of writing , and so layed down his Patriarchicall staff , which was presently received by the Metropolite of Mosko , and divers other ceremonies used about the inauguration of this new Patriarch . The day was holden very solemn by the people of the citie , who were commanded to forbear their works , and to attend this solemnitie . The great Patriarch that day was honoured with rich presents , sent him from the Emperour and Empresse , of plate , cloth of gold , furres , &c. carried with great pomp through the streets of Mosko , and at his departing received many gifts more , both from the Emperour . Nobilitie , and Clergie . Thus the Patriarchship of Constantinople or Sio ( which hath continued since the Councel of Nice ) is now translated to Mosko , or they made believe that they have a Patriarch with the same right and authoritie that the other had . Wherein the subtil Greek hath made good advantage of their superstition , and is now gone away with a rich bootie into Poland , whether their Patriarchship be currant or not . The matter is not unlike to make some schisme betwixt the Greek and Russe Church , if the Russe hold this Patriarchship that he hath so well payed for , and the Greeks elect another withall , as likely they will , whether this man were banished by the Turk , or deprived by order of his own Clergie . Which might happen to give advantage to the Pope , and to bring over the Russe Church to the Sea of Rome ( to which end peradventure he devised this stratagem , and cast in this matter of schisme among them ) but that the Emperours of Russia know well enough , by the example of other Christian Princes , what inconvenience would grow to their state and countrey by subjecting themselves to the Romish Sea. To which end the late Emperour Juan Vasilowich was very inquisitive of the Popes authoritie over the Princes of Christendome , and sent one of very purpose to Rome , to behold the order and behaviour of his Court. With this Patriarch Hieronimo was driven out at the same time by the great Turk one Demetrio , Archbishop of Larissa , who is now in England , and pretendeth the same cause of their banishment by the Turk ( to wit ) their not admitting of the Popes new Kalender for the alteration of the year . Which how unlikely it is , may appear by these circumstances : First , because there is no such affection nor friendly respect betwixt the Pope and the Turk , as that he should banish a subject for not obeying the Popes ordinance , specially in a matter of some sequele for the alteration of times within his own countreys . Secondly , for that he maketh no such scruple in deducting of times , and keeping of a just and precise account from the incarnation of Christ , whom he doth not acknowledge otherwise then I noted before . Thirdly , for that the said Patriarch is now at Naples in Italie , where it may be ghessed he would not have gone within the Popes reach , and so near to his nose , if he had been banished for opposing himself against the Popes decree . This office of Patriarchship now translated to Mosko beareth a superiour authoritie over all the Churches , not onely of Russia and other the Emperours dominions , but throughout all the Churches of Christendome that were before under the Patriarch of Constantinople or Sio : or at least the Russe Patriarch imagineth himself to have the same authoritie . He hath under him as his proper diocesse the Province of Mosko , besides other peculiars . His court or office is kept at the Mosko . Before the creation of this new Patriarch they had but one Metropolite , that was called the Metropolite of Mosko . Now for more state to their Church and new Patriarch , they have two Metropolites , the one of Novogrod velica , the other of Rostove . Their office is to receive of the Patriarch such Ecclesiasticall orders as he thinketh good , and to deliver the charge of them over to the Archbishops , besides the ordering of their own diocesse . Their Archbishops are foure : of Smolensko , Cazan , Vobsko , and Vologda . The parts of their office is all one with the Metropolites , save that they have an under jurisdiction , as Suffragans to the Metropolites , and superiours to the Bishops . The next are the Uladikeis , or Bishops , that are but six in all : of Crutiska , of Rezan , of Otfer and Torshock , of Collomenska , of Volodemer , of Susdalla . These have every one a very large diocesse , as dividing the rest of the whole countrey among them . The matters pertaining to the Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction of the Metropolites , Archbishops , and Bishops , are the same in a manner that are used by the Clergie in other parts of Christendome . For besides their authoritie over the Clergie , and ordering such matters as are mere Ecclesiasticall , their jurisdiction extendeth to all testamentarie causes , matters of marriage , and divorcements , some pleas of injuries , &c. To which purpose also they have their Officials , or Commissaries ( which they call Boiaren Uladitskey ) that are Laymen of the degree of Dukes , or Gentlemen , that keep their Courts , and execute their jurisdiction . Which , besides their other oppressions over the common people , reigne over the Priests , as the Dukes and Diacks do over the poore people within their precincts . As for the Archbishop or Bishop himself , he beareth no sway in deciding those causes that are brought into his Court : But if he would moderate any matter , he must do it by intreatie with his Gentleman Officiall . The reason is , because these Boiarskey , or Gentlemen Officials , are not appointed by the Bishops , but by the Emperour himself , or his Councel , and are to give account of their doings to none but to them . If the Bishop can intreat at his admission to have the choice of his own Officiall , it is accounted for a speciall great favour . But to speak it as it is , the Clergie of Russia , as well concerning their lands and revenues , as their authoritie and jurisdiction , are altogether ordered and overruled by the Emperour , and his Councel , and have so much and no more of both as their pleasure doth permit them . They have also their assistants or severall Councels ( as they call them ) of certain Priests that are of their diocesse , residing within their cathedrall cities , to the number of foure and twentie a piece . These advise with them about the speciall and necessarie matters belonging to their charge . Concerning their rents and revenues to maintain their dignities , it is somewhat large . The Patriarchs yearly rents out of his lands ( besides other fees ) is about 3000. rubbels or marks . The Metropolites and Archbishops about 2500. The Bishops some a 1000. some 800. some 500 , &c. They have had some of them ( as I have heard say ) ten or twelve thousand rubbels a year , as had the Metropolite of Novograde . Their habit or apparel ( when they shew themselves in their Pontificalibus after their solemnest manner ) is a mitre on their heads , after the Popish fashion , set with pearl and precious stone , a cope on their backs , commonly of cloth of gold , embroidered with pearl , and a Crosiers staff in their hands , layed over all with plate of silver double guilt , with a crosse or shepherds crook at the upper end of it . Their ordinary habit otherwise when they ride or go abroad is a hood on their heads of black colour , that hangeth down their backs , and standeth out like a bongrace before . Their upper garment ( which they call Reis ) is a gown or mantle of black Damask , with many lists or gards of white Satten laid upon it , every gard about two fingers broad , and their Crosiers staff carried before them . Themselves follow after , blessing the people with their two forefingers , with a marvellous grace . The election and appointing of the Bishops and the rest pertaineth wholly to the Emperour himself . They are chosen ever out of the Monasteries , so that there is no Bishop , Archbishop , nor Metropolite , but hath been a Monk , or Frier before . And by that reason they are , and must all be unmarried men , for their vow of chastitie when they were first shorn . When the Emperour hath appointed whom he thinketh good , he is invested in the Cathedrall church of his Diocesse with many ceremonies , much after the manner of the Popish inauguration . They have also their Deans , and their Archdeacons . As for preaching the word of God , or any teaching , or exhorting such as are under them , they neither use it , nor have any skill of it : the whole Clergie being utterly unlearned both for other knowledge , and in the word of God. Onely their manner is twice every year , viz. the first of September ( which is the first day of their year ) and on S. John Baptists day , to make an ordinarie speech to the people , every Metropolite , Archbishop , and Bishop in his Cathedrall Church , to this or like effect ; That if any be in malice towards his neighbour , he shall leave off his malice ; if any have thought of treason or rebellion against his Prince , he beware of such practise ; if he have not kept his fasts , and vows , nor done his other duties to the holy Church , he shall amend that faule , &c. And this is a matter of form with them , uttered in as many words and no more , in a manner , then I have here set down . Yet the matter is done with that grace and solemnitie , in a pulpit of purpose set up for this one Act , as if he were to discourse at large of the whole substance of divinitie . At the Mosko the Emperour himself is ever present at this solemn exhortation . As themselves are void of all manner of learning , so are they warie to keep out all means that might bring any in , as fearing to have their ignorance and ungodlinesse discovered . To that purpose they have perswaded the Emperours that it would breed innovation , and so danger to their state , to have any noveltie of learning come within the Realm . Wherein they say but truth : for that a man of spirit and understanding , helped by learning and liberall education , can hardly indure a tyrannicall government . Some years past , in the other Emperours time , there came a Presse and Letters out of Polonia to the citie of Mosko , where a printing-house was set up , with great liking and allowance of the Emperour himself : But not long after , the house was set on fire in the night time , and the presse and letters quite burnt up , as was thought , by the procurement of the Clergie men . Their Priests ( whom they call Papaes ) are made by the Bishops , without any great triall for worthinesse of gifts , before they admit them , or ceremonies in their admission , save that their heads are shorn ( not shaven , for that they like not ) about an hand-breadth or more in the crown , and that place anointed with oyl by the Bishop , who in his admission putteth upon the priest , first his surplesse , and then setteth a white crosse on his breast of silk , or some other matter , which he is to wear eight dayes , and no more ; and so giveth him authoritie to say and sing in the Church , and to administer the Sacraments . They are men utterly unlearned ; which is no marvell , forasmuch as their makers , the Bishops themselves ( as before was said ) are clear of that qualitie , and make no further use at all of any kind of learning , no not of the Scriptures themselves , save to reade and to sing them . Their ordinary charge and function is to say the Liturgie , to administer the Sacraments after their manner , to keep and deck their idols , and to do the other ceremonies usuall in their Churches . Their number is great , because their towns are parted into many small parishes without any discretion for dividing them into competent numbers of housholds , and people for a just congregation , as the manner in all places , where the means is neglected for increasing of knowledge , and instruction towards God. Which cannot well be had , where by means of an unequall partition of the people , and parishes , there followeth a want and unequalitie of stipend for a sufficient ministerie . For their priests , it is lawfull to marrie for the first time . But if the first wife die , a second he cannot take , but he must lose his Priesthood and his living withall . The reason they make out of that place of Saint Paul to Timothie 1. 3. 2. not well understood , thinking that to be spoken of divers wives successively , that the Apostle speaketh of at one and the same time . If he will needs marrie again after his first wife is dead , he is no longer called Papa , but Rospapa , or Priest quondam . This maketh the Priests to make much of their wives , who are accounted as the matrones , and of best reputation among the women of the parish . For the stipend of the Priest , their manner is not to pay him any tem the of corn , or ought else ; but he must stand at the devotion of the people of his parish , and make up the incommes towards his maintenance , so well as he can , by offerings , shrifts , marriages , burials , dirges , and prayers for the dead and the living ( which they call Molitua ) For besides their publick service within their Churches , their manner is for every , private man to have a prayer said for him by the Priest , upon any occasion of businesse whatsoever , whether he ride , go , sail , plough , or whatsoever else he doth . Which is not framed according to the occasion of his businesse , but at randome , being some of their ordinary and usuall Church-prayers . And this is thought to be more holy and effectuall if it be repeated by the Priests mouth , rather then by his own . They have a custome besides to solemnize the Saints day that is patrone to their Church , once every year , what time all their neighbours of their countrey and parishes about come in to have prayers said to that Saint for themselves , and their friends ; and so make an offering to the Priest for his pains . This offering may yield them some ten pounds a year , more or lesse , as the patrone or Saint of that Church is of credit , and estimation among them . The manner is on this day ( which they keep anniversarie ) for the priest to hire divers of his neighbour-priests to help him , as having more dishes to dresse for the Saint , then he can well turn his hand unto . They use besides to visit their parishioners houses , with holy water , and perfume , commonly once a quarter : and so having sprinkled and becensed the good man and his wife , with the rest of their houshold , and houshold-stuff , they receive some devotion more or lesse , as the man is of abilitie . This and the rest laid altogether may make up for the priest towards his maintenance about thirty or fourty rubbles a year , whereof he payeth the tenth part to the Bishop of the Diocesse . The Papa or Priest is known by his long tufts of hair , hanging down by his ears , his gown with a broad cape , and a walking staff in his hand . For the rest of his habit , he is apparelled like the common sort . When he saith the Liturgie or service , within the Church , he hath on him his surplesse , and sometimes his cope , if the day be more solemn . They have besides their Papaes or Priests , their Churnapapaes ( as they call them ) that is , Black Priests : that may keep their Be●●fices though they be admitted Friers withall within some Monasterie . They seem to be the very same that were called Regular Priests in the Popish Church . Under the Priest is a Deacon in every Church , that doth nothing but the office of a pa-rish-clerk . As for their Protopapaes , or Archpriests , and their Archdeacons ( that are next in election to be their Protopapas ) they serve onely in the cathedrall Churches . Of Friers they have an infinite rabble , farre greater then in any other countrey , where Popery is professed . Every citie , and good part of the countrey , swarmeth full of them . For they have wrought ( as the Popish Friers did by their superstition and hypocrisie ) that if any part of the Realm be better and sweeter then other , there standeth a Friery or Monastery dedicated to some Saint . The number of them is so much the greater , not onely for that it 〈◊〉 augmented by the superstition of the countrey , but because the Friers lif● is the safest from the oppressions and exactions that fall upon the Commons . Which causeth many to put on the Friers weed , as the best armour to bear off such blows . Besides such as are voluntarie , there are divers that are forced to shier themselves Friers , upon some displeasure . These are for the most part of the chief Nobilitie . Divers take the Monasteri●s as a place of Sanctuary , and there become Friers , to avoid some punishment that they had deserved by the laws of the Realm . For if he get a Monastery over his head , and there put on a cowl before he be attached , it is a protection to him for ever against any law , for what crime soever , except it be for treason . But this Proviso goeth withall , that no man cometh there ( except such as are commanded by the Emperour to be received ) but he giveth them lands , or bringeth his stock with him , and putteth it into the common Treasurie . Some bring a 1000. rubbles , and some more . None is admitted under 3. or 4. hundred . The manner of their admission is after this sort . First , the Abbot strippeth him of all his secular or ordinary apparel : Then he puteth upon him next to his skinne a white flannell shirt , with a long garment over it down to the ground , girded unto him with a broad leather belt . His uppermost garment is a weed of Garrus , or Say , for colour and fashion much like to the upper weed of a Chimney-sweeper . Then is his crown shorn a hand-breadth or more , close to the very skinne , and these or like words pronounced by the Abbot whiles he clippeth his hair , As these hairs are clipped off , and taken from thy head , so now we take thee , and separate thee clean from the world , and worldly things , &c. This done , he anointeth his crown with oyl , and putteth on his cowl , and so taketh him in among the Fraternitie . They vow perpetual chastity , & abstinence from flesh Besides their lands ( that are very great ) they are the greatest merchants in the whole countrey , and deal for all manner of commodities . Some of their Monasteries dispend in lands 1000. or 2000 rubbles a year . There is one Abbey called Troils , that hath in lands and fees the summe of 100000. rubbles or marks a year . It is built in manner of a Castle , walled round about , with great ordinance planted on the wall , and containeth within it a large breadth of ground , & great varietie of building . There are of Friers within it ( besides their officers , and other servants ) about 700. The Empresse that now is hath many vows to Saint Sergius , that is patrone there , to intreat him to make her fruitfull , as having no children by the Emperour her husband . Lightly every year she goeth on pilgrimage to him from the Mosko on foot , about 80. English miles , with 5. or 6000. women attending on her , all in blue liveries , & 4000. souldiers for her guard . But S. Sergius hath not yet heard her prayers , though ( they say ) he hath a speciall gift and faculty that way . What learning there is among their Friers , may be known by their Bishops , that are the choice men out of all their monasteries . I talked with one of them at the Citie of Vologda , where ( to trie his skill ) I offered him a Russe Testament , and turned him to the first Chapter of S. Matthews Gospel , where he began to reade in very good order . I asked him first what part of Scripture it was , that he had read ? he answered that he could not vvell tell . How many Evangelists there were in the new Testament ? He said , he knew not . How many Apostles there were ? He thought there were twelve . How he should be saved ? Whereunto he answered me with a piece of Russe doctrine , that he knew not whether he should be saved or no : but if God would Poshallovate him , or gratifie him so much , as to save him , so it was , he would be glad of it ; if not , what remedie . I asked him , why he shore himself a Frier ? He answered , because he would eat his bread with peace . This is the learning of the Friers of Russia , which though it be not to be measured by one , yet partly it may be ghessed by the ignorance of this man , what is in the ●est . They have also many Nunneries , whereof some may admit none but Noblemens widows , and daughters . when the Emperour meaneth to keep them unmarried , from continuing the bloud or stock which he would have extinguished . To speak of the life of their Friers and Nunnes , it needs not to those that know the hypocrisie & uncleannesse of that Cloyster-brood . The Russe himself ( though otherwise addicted to all superstition ) speaketh so fouly of it , that it must needs gain silence of any modest man. Besides these , they have certain Eremites , ( whom they call Holy men ) that are like to those Gymnosop●ists for their life and behaviour , though farre unlike for their knowledge and learning . They use to go stark naked , save a ●lout about their middle , with their hair hanging long , and wildly about their shoulders , and many of them with an iron coller or chain about their necks or mids , even in the very extremitie of winter . These they ●●ke as Prophets , and men of great holinesse , giving them a libertie to speak what they l●●t , without any controlement , though it be of the very highest himself . So that if he reprove any openly , in what sort soever , they answer nothing , but that it is P●…um , that is , for their ●…es . And if any of them take some piece of sale wa●● from any 〈◊〉 shop , as he passeth by , to give where he list , he thinketh himself much beloved of God , and much beholding to the holy man for taking it in that sort . Of this kind there are not many , because it is a very hard and cold profession to go naked in Russia , specially in Winter . Among other at this time they have one at Mosko , that walketh naked about the streets , and inveigheth commonly against the state and government , especially against the Godonoes , that are thought at this time to be great oppressours of that Common-wealth . Another there was that died not many years ago ( whom they called Basileo ) that would take upon him to reprove the old Emperour for all his crueltie & oppressions done towards his people . His bodie they have translated of late into a sumptuous Church , near the Emperours house in Mosko , and have canonized him for a Saint . Many miracles he doth there ( for so the Friers make the people to believe ) and many offerings are made unto him , not onely by the people , but by the chief Nobilitie , and the Emperour , and Empresse themselves , which visit that Church with great devotion . But this last year , at my being at Mosko , this Saint had ill luck in working his miracles . For a lame man that had his limbs restored ( as it was pretended by him ) was charged by a woman that was familiar with him ( being then fallen out ) that he halted but in the day time , and could leap merrily when he came home at night . And that he had intended this matter six years before . Now he is put into a Monasterie , and there raileth upon the Friers , that hired him to have this counterfeit miracle practised upon him . Besides this disgrace , a little before my coming from thence , there were eight slain within his Church by fire in a thunder : Which caused his bels ( that were tingling before all day and night long as in triumph of the miracles wrought by Basileo their Saint ) to ring somewhat softlier , and hath wrought no little discredit to this miracle-worker . There was another of great account at Plesko ( called Nicola of Plesko ) that did much good , when this Emperours father came to sack the town , upon suspicion of their revolting and rebellion against him . The Emperour , after he had saluted the Eremite at his lodging , sent him a reward . And the Holy man , to requite the Emperour , sent him a piece of raw flesh , being then their Lent time . Which the Emperour seeing , bid one to tell him that he marvelled that the Holy man would offer him flesh to eat in the Lent , when it was forbidden by order of holy Church . And doth Evasko ( which is as much to say , as Jack ) think ( quoth Nicola ) that it is unlawfull to eat a piece of beasts flesh in Lent , and not to eat up so much mans flesh as he hath done already ? So threatning the Emperour with a prophesie of some hard adventure to come upon him , except he left murdering of his people , and departed the town , he saved a great many mens lives at that time . This maketh the people to like very well of them , because they are as Pasquils , to note their great mens faults , that no man else dare speak of . Yet it falleth out sometime that for this rude libertie , which they take upon them , after a counterfeit manner , by imitation , of Prophets , they are made away in secret , as was one or two of them in the last Emperours time , for being overbold in speaking against his government . CHAP. XXII . Of their Liturgie or form of Church-service , and their manner of administring the Sacraments . THeir morning service they call Zautrana , that is , ma●●ins . It is done in this order . The Priest entereth into the Church with his Deacon following him . And when he is come to the middle of the Church , he beginneth to say with a loud voice , Blasslavey Uladika ( that is ) Blesse us heavenly Pastour , meaning of Christ. Then he addeth , In the name of the Father ▪ and of the Sonne , and of the holy Ghost , one very God in Trinitie : and Aspody Pomeluy , or , Lord have mercy upon us , Lord have mercy upon us , Lord have mercy upon us , repeated three times . This done , he marcheth on towards the Chancel , or Sanctum Sanctorum ( as they use to call it ) and so entreth into the Scharsuey Dwere , or the heavenly doore , which no man may enter into but the Priest onely . Where standing at the altar or table ( set near to the upper wall of the chancell ) he saith the Lords prayer , and then again Aspody Pomeluy , or Lord have mercie upon us , Lord have mercie upon us , &c. pronounced twelve times . Then , Praised be the Trinitie , the Father , Sonne , and holy Ghost , for ever and ever . Whereto the Deacons , and people say , Amen . Next after the Priest addeth the Psalmes for that day , and beginneth with O come let us worship , and fall down before the Lord , &c. and therewithall himself with the Deacons , and people , all turn themselves towards their Idols or Images that hang on the wall , and crossing themselves , bow down three times , knocking their heads to the very ground . After this , he readeth the ten commandments , and Athanasius Creed out of the Service book . This being done , the Deacon that standeth without the heavenly doore or chancell readeth a piece of a Legend out of a written book ( for they have it not in print ) of some Saints life , miracles , &c. This is divided into many parts , for every day in the year , and is read by them with a plain singing note , not unlike to the Popish tune when they sung their Gospels . After all this ( which reacheth to an houre and an half , or two houres of length ) he addeth certain set Collects or prayers upon that which he hath read out of the Legend before : and so endeth his Service . All this while stand burning before their Idols a great many of wax candles ( whereof some are of the bignesse of a mans wast ) vowed , or enjoyned by penance upon the people of the parish . About 9. of the clock in the morning , they have another service , called Obeidna ( or Compline ) much after the order of the Popish Service that bare that name . If it be some high or Festivall day , they furnish their Service beside , with , Blessed be the Lord God of Israel , &c. and , We praise thee O God , &c. sung with a more solemn and curious note . Their Evening service is called Vecherna , where the Priest beginneth with Blaslavey Uladika , as he did in the morning , and with Psalmes appointed for the Vecherna . Which being read , he singeth , My soul doth magnifie the Lord , &c. And then the Priest , Deacons , and people , all with one voice sing , Aspody pomeluy , or Lord have mercy upon us , thirty times together . Whereunto the boyes that are in the Church answer all with one voice , rowling it up so fast as their lips can go , Verii , Verii , Verii , Verii , or Praise , Praise , Praise , &c. thirty times together , with a very strange noise . Then is read by the Priest , and upon the holydayes sung , the first Psalm , Blessed is the man , &c. And in the end of it is added Alleluia repeated ten times . The next in order is some part of the Gospel read by the Priest , which he endeth with Alleluia repeated three times . And so having said a collect in remembrance of the Saint of that day , he endeth his evening service . All this while the Priest standeth above at the altar or high table , within the Chancel , or Sanctum Sanctorum , whence he never moveth all the service time . The Deacon or Deacons ( which are many in their cathedrall Churches ) stand without the chancel by the Scharsuey dwere , or heavenly doore : for within they may not be seen all the service time , though otherwise their office is to sweep , and keep it , and to set up the wax candles before their Idols . The people stand together the whole service time in the body of the Church , and some in the Church porch ; for pew or seat they have none within their Churches . The Sacrament of baptisme they administer after this manner : The child is brought unto the Church , and this is done within eight dayes after it is born . If it be the child of some Nobleman , it is brought with great pomp in a rich ●led or wagon , with chairs and cushions of cloth of gold , and such like sumptuous shew of their best furniture . When they are come to the Church , the Priest standeth readie to receive the child within the church-porch , with his tub of water by him . And then beginneth to declare unto them that they have brought a little Infidell to be made a Christian , &c. This ended , he teacheth the witnesses ( that are two or three ) in a certain set form out of his book , what their dutie is in bringing up the child after he is baptized , viz. That he must be taught to know God , and Christ the Saviour . And because God is of great Majestie , and we must not presume to come unto him without Mediatours ( as the manner is when we make any suit to an Emperour , or great Prince ) therefore they must teach him what Saints are the best and chief mediatours , &c. This done , he commandeth the devil in the name of God after a conjuring manner to come out of the water : and so after certain prayers he plungeth the child thrise over head and ears . For this they hold to be a point necessary , that no part of the child be undipped in the water . The words that bear with them the form of baptisme uttered by the Priest , when he dippeth in the child , are the very same that are prescribed in the Gospel , and used by us , viz. In the name of the Father , and of the Sonne , and of the Ghost . For that they should alter the form of the words , and say by the holy Ghost ( as I have heard that they did ) following certain hereticks of the Greek church , I found to be untrue , as well by report of them that have been often at their baptismes , as by their book of Liturgie it self , wherein the order of baptisme is precisely set down . When the child is baptized , the Priest layeth oyl and salt tempered together upon the forehead , and both sides of his face , and then upon his mouth , drawing it along with his finger over the childs lips ( as did the Popish priests ) saying withall certain prayers to this effect , that God will make him a good Christian , &c. all this is done in the Church-porch . Then is the child ( as being now made a Christian , and meet to be received within the Church doore ) carried into the Church , the Priest going before , and there he is presented to the chief Idol of the Church , being laid on a cushion before the feet of the image , by it ( as by the mediatour ) to be commended unto God If the child be sick or weak ( specially in the winter ) they use to make the water lukewarm . After baptisme the manner is to cut off the hair from the childs head , and having wrapped it within a piece of wax to lay up as a relique or monument in a secret place of the church . This is the manner of their baptisme , which they account to be the best and perfectest form : As they do all other parts of their religion , received ( as they say ) by tradition from the best Church , meaning the Greek . And therefore they will take great pains to make a proselyte or convert either of an infidell , or of a forein Christian , by rebaptizing him after the Russe manner . When they take any Tartar prisoner , commonly they will offer him life with condition to be baptized . And yet they perswade very few of them to redeem their life so , because of the naturall hatred the Tartar beareth to the Russe and the opinion he hath of his falshood and injustice . The year after Mosko was fired by the Chrim Tartar there was taken a Divoymorsey , one of the chief of that exploit with 300. Tartars more : who had all their lives offered them , if they would be baptized after the Russe manner . Which they refused all to do , with many reproches against those that perswaded them . And so being carried to the river Mosko ( that runneth through the citie ) they were all baptized after a violent manner , being thrust down with a knock on the head into the water , through an hole made in the ice for that purpose . Of Lieflanders that are captives , there are many that take on them this second Russe baptisme to get more libertie , and somewhat besides towards their living , which the Emperour ordinarily useth to give them . Of Englishmen since they frequented the countrey there was never any found that so much forgot God , his faith , and countrey , as that he would be content to be baptized Russe , for any respect of fear , preferment or other means whatsoever , save onely Richard Relph , that following before an ungodly trade by keeping a Caback ( against the order of the countrey ) and being put off from that trade , and spoiled by the Emperours officers of that which he had , entred himself this last year into the Russe profession , and so was rebaptized , living now as much an idolatour , as before he was a riotour , and unthriftie person . Such as thus receive the Russe baptisme are first carried into some Monasterie to be instructed there in the doctrine and ceremonies of the Church . Where they use these ceremonies : First , they put him into a new and fresh suit of apparell , made after the Russe fashion , and set a coronet or ( in Summer ) a garland upon his head . Then they anoint his head with oyl , and put a wax candle light into his hand , and so pray over him foure times a day , the space of seven dayes . All this while he is to abstain from flesh , and white meats . The seven dayes being ended , he is purified and washed in a bathstove , and so the eighth day he is brought into the Church , where he is taught by the Friers how to behave himself in presence of their idols , by ducking down , knocking of the head , crossing himself , and such like gestures , which are the greatest part of the Russe religion . The Sacrament of the Lords supper they receive but once a year , in their great Lent time , a little before Easter . Three at the most are admitted at one time , and never above . The manner of their communicating is thus : First they confesse themselves of all their sinnes to the Priest , whom they call their ghostly father . Then they come to the Church , and are called up to the Communion table , that standeth like an altar , a little removed from the upper end of the Church , after the Dutch manner . Here first they are asked of the Priest whether they be clean or no , that is , whether they have never a sinne behind that they left unconfessed . If they answer , No , they are taken to the table . Where the Priest beginneth with certain usuall prayers , the communicants standing in the meanwhile with their arms folded one within another , like penitentiaries or mourners . When these prayers are ended , the Priest taketh a spoon , and filleth it full of claret wine , then he putteth into it a small piece of bread , and tempereth them both together , and so delivereth them in the spoon to the Communicants that stand in order , speaking the usuall words of the Sacrament , Eat this , &c. Drink this , &c. both at one time without any pause . After that he delivereth them again bread by it self , and then wine carded together with a little warm water , to represent bloud more rightly ( as they they think ) and the water withall , that flowed out of the side of Christ. Whiles this is in doing the communicants unfold their arms , and then folding them again , follow the Priest thrice round about the communion toble , and so return to their places again . Where having said certain other prayers , he dismisseth the communicants , with charge to be merry , and chear up themselves for the seven dayes next following ; which being ended , he enjoyneth them to fast for it as long time after , which they use to observe with very great devotion , eating nothing else but bread and salt , except a little cabbage , and some other herb or root , with water or quasse mead for their drink . This is their manner of administring the Sacraments . Wherein what they differ from the institution of Christ , and what ceremonies they have added of their own , or rather borrowed of the Greeks , may easily be noted . CHAP. XVIII . Of the doctrine of the Russe Church , and what errours it holdeth . THeir chiefest errours in matter of faith I find to be these : First , concerning the word of God it self they will not read publickly certain books of the Canonicall Scripture , as the books of Moses , specially the foure last , Exodus , Leviticus , Numeri , and Deuteronomie , which they say are all made disauthentick , and put out of use by the coming of Christ , as not able to discern the difference betwixt the morall , and the ceremoniall law . The books of the prophets they allow of , but reade them not publickly in their churches for the same reason , because they were but directours unto Christ , and proper ( as they say ) to the nation of the Jews . Onely the book of Psalmes they have in great estimation , and sing and say them dayly in their Churches . Of the new Testament they allow and read all , except the Revelation : which therefore they read not ( though they allow it ) because they understand it not , neither have the like occasion to know the fulfilling of the prophesies contained within it , concerning especially the apostasie of the Antichristian church , as have the Western Churches . Notwithstanding they have had their Antichrists of the Greek Church , and may find their own falling off , and the punishments for it by the Turkish invasion in the prophecies of that book . Secondly ( which is the fountain of the rest of all their corruptions both in doctrine and ceremonies ) they hold with the Papists , that their Church Traditions are of equall authoritie with the written word of God. Wherein they preferre themselves before other Churches , affirming that they have the true and right traditions delivered by the Apostles to the Greek Church , and so unto them . 3. That the Church ( meaning the Greek , and specially the Patriarch and his Synod , as the head of the rest ) have a sovereigne authoritie to interpret the Scripture , and that all are bound to hold that interpretation as sound and authentick . 4. Concerning the divine nature and the three persons in the one substance of God , that the holy Ghost proceedeth from the Father onely , and not from the Sonne . 5. About the office of Christ they hold many foul errours , and the same almost as doth the Popish church : namely , that he is the sole mediatour of redemption , but not of intercession . Their chief reason ( if they be talked withall ) for defence of this errour is that unapt and foolish comparison betwixt God and a Monarch or Prince of this world , that must be sued unto by Mediatours about him : wherein they give speciall preferment to some above others , as to the blessed Virgin , whom they call Precheste , or undefiled , and S. Nicolas , whom they call Scora pomosnick , or the Speedy helper , and say that he hath 300. angels of the chiefest appointed by God to attend upon him . This hath brought them to an horrible excesse of idolatry , after the grossest and prophanest manner , giving unto their images all religious worship of prayer , thanksgiving , offerings , and adoration , with prostrating and knocking their heads to the ground before them , as to God himself . Which because they do to the picture , not to the portraiture of the Saint , they say they worship not an idol , but the Saint in his image , and so offend not God , forgetting the commandment of God , that forbiddeth to make the image or likenesse of any thing , for any religious worship or use whatsoever . Their church-walls are very full of them , richly hanged and set forth with pearl and stone upon the smooth table . Though some also they have embossed , that stick from the board almost an inch outwards . They call them Chudovodites , or their miracle-workers : and when they provide them to set up in their Churches , in no case they may say that they have bought the image , but exchanged money for it . 6. For the means of justification , they agree with the Papists , that it is not by faith onely apprehending Christ , but by their works also ; and that Opus operatum , or the work for the work sake , must needs please God. And therefore they are all in their numbers of prayers , fasts , vows , and offerings to saints , alms-deeds , crossings and such like , and carrie their numbring beads about with them continualy , as well the Emperour and his Nobilitie as the common people , not onely in the Church , but in all other publick places , specially at any set or solemn meeting , as in their fasts , law courts , common consultations , entertainment of Ambassadours , and such like . 7. They say with the Papists that no man can be assured of his salvation till the last sentence be passed at the day of judgement . 8. They use auricular confession , and think that they are purged by the very action from so many sinnes as they confesse by name and in particular to the Priest. 9. They hold three Sacraments , of Baptisme , the Lords supper , and the last an oyling , or unction . Yet concerning their Sacrament of extreme unction , they hold it not so necessary to salvation as they do baptisme , but think it a great curse and punishment of God if any die without it . 10. They think there is a necessitie of baptisme , and that all are condemned that die without it . 11. They rebaptize as many Christians ( not being of the Greek church ) as they convert to their Russe profession , because they are divided from the true church , which is the Greek , as they say . 12. They make a difference of meats and drin●● , accounting the use of one to be more holy then of another . And therefore in their set fasts they forbear to eat flesh and white meats ( as we call them ) after the manner of the Popish superstition : which they observe so strictly , and with such blind devotion , as that they will rather die then eat one bit of flesh , egges , or such like , for the health of their bodies in their extreme sicknesse . 13. They hold marriage to be unlawfull for all the Clergie men , except the priests onely , and for them also after the first wife , as was said before . Neither do they well allow of it in Lay-men after the second marriage . Which is a pretence now used against the Emperours onely brother , a child of six years old , who therefore is not prayed for in their Churches ( as their manner is otherwise for the Princes bloud ) because he was born of the sixth marriage , and so not legitimate . This charge was given to the priests by the Emperour himself , by procurement of the Godonoes : who make him believe that it is a good pollicie to turn away the liking of the people from the next successour . Many other false opinions they have in matter of religion . But these are the chief , which they hold partly by means of their traditions ( which they have received from the Greek Church ) but specially by ignorance of the holy Scriptures . Which notwithstanding they have in the Polonian tongue , ( that is all one with theirs some few words excepted ) yet few of them read them with that godly care which they ought to do : neither have they ( if they would ) books sufficient of the old and new Testament for the common people , but of their Liturgie onely , or book of common service , whereof there are great numbers . All this mischief cometh from the Clergie , who being ignorant and godlesse themselves , are very wary to keep the people likewise in their ignorance and blindnesse , for their living and bellies sake ; partly also from the manner of government settled among which the Emperours ( whom it specially behoveth ) list not to have changed by any innovation , but to retain that religion that best agreeth with it . Which notwithstanding it is not to be doubted , but that having the word of God in some sort ( though without the ordinary means to attain to a true sense and understanding of it ) God hath also his number among them . As may partly appear by that which a Russe at Mosko said in secret to one of my servants , speaking against their images and other superstitions , That God had given unto England light to day , and might give it to morrow ( if he pleased ) to them . As for any inquisition or proceeding against men for matter of religion , I could hear of none ; save a few years since against one man and his wife , who were kept in a close prison the space of 28. years ; till they were overgrown into a deformed fashion , for their hair , nails , colour of countenance , and such like , and in the end were burned at Mosko , in a small house set on fire . The cause was kept secret , but like it was for some part of truth in matter of religion ; though the people were made to believe by the Priests and Friers , that they held some great and damnable heresie . CHAP. XXIV . Of the manner of solemnizing their Marriages . THe manner of making and solemnizing their marriages is different from the manner of other countries . The man ( though he never saw the woman before ) is not permitted to have any sight of her all the time of his woing , which he doth not by himself , but by his mother or some other ancient woman of his kinne ( aswell by the parents as by the parties themselves , for without the knowledge and consent of the parents , the contract is not lawfull ) the fathers on both sides , or such as are to them in stead of fathers , with other chief friends , having a meeting and conference about the dowrie , which is commonly very large , after the abilitie of the parents : so that you shall have a market man ( as they call them ) give a 1000. rubbels or more with his daughter . As for the man it is never required of him , nor standeth with their custome to make any joynter in recompence of the dowrie . But in case he have a child by his wife , she enjoyeth a third deal after his decease . If he have two children by her or more , she is to have a courtesie more , at the discretion of the husband . If the husband depart without issue by his wife , she is returned home to her friends without any thing at all , save onely her dowrie , if the husband leave so much behind him in goods . When the agreement is made concerning the dowrie , they signe bonds one to the other , as well for the paiment of the dowrie , as the performing of the marriage by a certain day . If the woman were never married before , her father and friends are bound besides to assure her a maiden . Which breedeth many brabbles and quarrels at Law , if the man take any conceit concerning the behaviour and honestie of his wife . Thus the contract being made , the parties begin to send tokens the one to the other , the woman first , then afterwards the man , but yet se● not one another till the marriage be solemnized . On the eve before the marriage day the bride is carried in a Collimago , or coach , or in a s●edde ( if it be winter ) to the bridegroom● house , with her marriage-apparel and bedsted with her , which they are to lie in . For this is ever provided by the Bride , and is commonly very fair , with much cost bestowed upon it . Here she is accompanied all that night by her mother , and other women , but not welcomed , nor once seen by the Bridegroom himself . When the time is come to have the marriage solemnized , the Bride hath put upon her a kind of hood , made of fine knitwork , or lawn , that covereth her head and all her body down to the middle ; and so accompanied with her friends , and the bridegroom with his , they go to Church all on horseback , though the Church be near hand , and themselves but of very mean degree . The words of contract , and other ceremonies in solemnizing the marriage , are much after the order , and with the same words that are used with us , with a ring also given to the Bride . Which being put on , and the words of contract pronounced , the Brides ●and is delivered into the hand of the Bridegroom , which standeth all this while on the one side of the altar or table , and the Bride on the other . So the marriage knot being knit by the Priest , the Bride cometh to the Bridegroom ( standing at the end of the altar or table ) and falleth down at his feet , knocking her head upon his shoe , in token of her subjection and obedience . And the Bridegroom again casteth the lap of his gown or upper garment over the Bride , in token of his dutie to protect , and cherish her . Then the Bridegroom and Bride standing both together at the tables end , cometh first the father , and the other friends of the Bride , & bow themselves down low to the Bridegroom ; and so likewise his friends bow themselves to the Bride , in token of affinitie and love ever after betwixt the two kindreds . And withall , the father of the Bridegroom offereth to the Priest a loaf of bread , who delivereth it straight again to the father , and other friends of the Bride , with attestation before God and their idols , that he deliver the dowrie wholly and truly at the day appointed , and hold love ever after , one kindred with another . Whereupon they break the loaf into pieces , and eat of it , to testifie their true and sincere meanings for performing of that charge , and thenceforth to become as grains of one loaf , or men of one table . These ceremonies being ended , the Bridegroom taketh the Bride by the hand , and so they go on together with their friends after them , towards the Church-porch , where meet them certain with pots and cups in their hands , with mead and Russe wine : whereof the Bridegroom taketh first a chark or little cup full in his hand , and drinketh to the Bride , who opening her hood or veil below , and putting the cup to her mouth underneath it ( for being seen of the Bridegroom ) pledgeth him again . Thus returning al●ogether from the Church , the Bridegroom goeth not home to his own , but to his fathers house , and she likewise to hers , where either entertain their friends apart . At the entring into the house , they use to fl●ng corn out of the windows , upon the Bridegroom and Bride , in t●k●n of plentie , and fruitfulnesse to be with them ever after . When the Evening is come , the Bride is brought to the Bridegrooms fathers house , and there lodgeth that night , with her veil or cover still over her head . All that night she may not speak one word ( for that charge she receiveth by tradition from her mother , & other matrons her friends ) that the Bridegroom must neither heare , nor see her , till the day after the marriage . Neither three dayes after may she be heard to speak , save certain few words at the table , in a set form , with great manners , and reverence to the Bridegroom . If she behave herself otherwise , it is a great prejudice to her credit , and life ever after ; and will highly be disliked of the Bridegroom himself . After the third day they depart to their own , and make a feast to both their friends together . The marriage day , and the whole time of their festivall , the Bridegroom hath the honour to be called Moloday Knez , or young Duke , and the Bride Moloday Knezay , or young Dutchesse . In living with their wives , they shew themselves to be but of a barbarous condition , using them as servants , rather then wives ; except the Noble-women , which are , or seem to be of more estimation with their husbands then the rest of meaner sort . They have this foul abuse , contrary to good order and the word of God it self , that upon dislike of his wife , or other cause whatsoever the man may go into a Monasterie , and shier himself a Frier , by pretence of devotion , and so leave his wife to shift for herself so well as she can . CHAP. XXV . Of the other Ceremonies of the Russe Church . THe other ceremonies of their Church are many in number , especially , the abuse about the signe of the Crosse , which they set up in their high-wayes , in the tops of their Churches , and in every doore of their houses , signing themselves continually with it on their foreheads and breasts , with great devotion , as they will seem by their outward gesture . Which were lesse offence , if they gave not withall that religious reverence and worship unto it which is due to God onely , and used the dumbe shew and signing of it instead of thanksgiving , and of all other duties which they ow unto God. When they rise to the morning , they go commonly in the sight of some steeple that hath a crosse on the top , and so bowing themselves towards the crosse , signe themselves withall on their foreheads and breasts . And this is their thanksgiving to God for their nights rest , without any word speaking , except peradventure they say , Aspody Pomeluy , or , Lord have mercie upon us . When they sit down to meat , and rise again from it , the thanksgiving to God is the crossing of their foreheads and breasts , except it be some few that adde peradventure a word or two of some ordinarie prayer , impertinent to that purpose . When they are to give an oath for the deciding of any controversie at Law , they do it by swearing by the Crosse , and kissing the f●et of it , making it as God , whose name onely is to be used in such triall of justice . When they enter into any house ( where ever there is an idol hanging on the wall ) they signe themselves with the crosse , and bow themselves to it . When they begin any work , be it little or much , they arm themselves first with the signe of the crosse . And this commonly is all their prayer to God for good speed of their businesse . And thus they serve God with crosses , after a crosse and vain manner , not understanding what the crosse of Christ is , nor the power of it . And yet they think all strangers Christians to be no better then Tu●ks in comparison of themselves ( and so they will say ) because they bow not themselves , when they meet with the crosse , nor signe themselves with it , as the Russe manner is . They have holy water in like use and estimation as the Popish Church hath . But herein they exceed them , in that they do not onely hallow their holy water stocks , and tubs full of water , but all the rivers of the countrey once every year . At Mosko it is done with great pomp and solemnitie , the Emperour himself being present at it , with all his Nobility marching through the streets towards the river of Moskua , in manner of procession , in this order as followeth . First go two Deacons , with banners in their hands , the one of Precheste ( or our Ladie ) the other of S. Michael , fighting with the dragon . Then follow after the rest of the Deacons and the priests of Mosko , two and two in a ranck , with copes on their backs , and their idols at their breasts , carried with girdles or slings , made fast about their necks . Next the priests come their Bishops in their pontificalibus ; then the Friers , Monks , and Abbots ; and after , the Patriarch in rich attire , with a ball or sphere on the top of his mitre , to signifie his universalitie over that Church : Last cometh the Emperour with all his nobility . The whole train is of a mile long , or more . When they are come to the river , a great hole is made in the yce , where the market is kept , of a rod and a half broad , with a stage round about it to keep off the presse . Then beginneth the Patriarch to say certain prayers , and conjureth the devil to come out of the water : and so casting in salt , and censing it with frankincen●e , maketh the whole river to become holy water . The morning before all the people of Mosko use to make crosses of chalk over every doore , and window of their houses , lest the devil being conjured out of the water should flie into their houses . When the ceremonies are ended , you shall see the black guard of the Emperours house , and then the rest of the town , with their pails and buckets , to take of the hallowed water for drink , and other uses . You shall also see the women dip in their children over head and ears , & many men and women leap into it , some naked , some with their clothes on when some man would think his finger would frieze off if he should but dip it into the water . When the men have done , they bring their horse to the river , to drink of the sanctified water , and so make them as holy as a horse . Their set day for this solemn action of hallowing their rivers , is that we call Twelfthday . The like is done by other Bishops , in all parts of the Realm . Their manner is also to give it to their sick , in their greatest extremity , thinking that it will either recover them , or sanctifie them to God. Whereby they kill many , through their unreasonable superstition , as did the Lord Borris his onely sonne , at my being at the Mosko , whom he killed ( as was said by the physicians ) by pouring into him cold holy water , and presenting him naked into the Church to their Saint Basileo , in the cold of the Winter in an extremitie of sicknesse . They have an image of Christ , which they call Neruchi ( which signifieth as much as Made without hands ) for so their priests and superstition withall perswadeth them it was . This in their processions they carrie about with them on high upon a pole , enclosed within a pix , made like a lanthorn , and do reverence to it as to a great mysterie . At every brewing , their manner is likewise to bring a dish of their wort to the Priest within the Church , which being hallowed by him is poured into the brewing , and so giveth it such a virtue , as when they drink of it they are seldome sober . The like they do with the first fruits of their corn in Harvest . They have another ceremonie on Palmsunday , of ancient tradition , what time the Patriarch rideth through the Mosko the Emperour himself holding his horse bridle , and the people crying Hosanna , and spreading their upper garments under his horse feet . The Emperour hath of the Patriarch for his good service of that day 200. rubbels of standing pension . Another pageant they have much like to this , the week before the nativitie of Christ , when every Bishop in his Cathedrall Church setteth forth a sh●w● of the three children in the Oven , where the Angel is made to come flying from the roof of the Church with great admiration of the lookers on , and many terrible flashes of fire are made with rosen and gun-powder by the Chaldeans ( as they call them ) that run about the town all the twelve dayes , disguised in their players coats , and make much good sport for the honour of the Bishops pageant . At the Mosko the Emperour himself , and the Empresse never fail to be at it , though it be but the same matter plaid every year , without any new invention at all . Besides their fasts on Wednesdayes and Fridayes throughout the whole year ( the one because they say Christ was sold on the Wednesday , the other because he suffered on the Friday ) they have foure great Fasts or Lents every year . The first ( which they call their great Lent ) is at the same time with ours . The second , about Midsummer . The third , in Harvest time . The fourth , about Hallontide : which they keep not of policie , but of mere superstition . In their great Lent for the first week they eat nothing but bread and salt , and drink nothing but water , neither meddle with any matter of their vocation , but intend their shrieving and fasting onely . They have also 3. Vigils or Wakes in their great Lent , which they call Stoiania , and the last Friday their great Vigil , as they call it , what time the whole parish must be present in the Church , and watch from nine a clock in the Evening till six in the morning , all the while standing , save when they fall down and knock their heads to their idols , which must be an hundred and seventie times just through the whole night . About their burialls also they have many superstitious and profane ceremonies , as putting within the finger of the corps a letter to Saint Nicholas , whom they make their chief mediatour , and as it were the porter of heaven gates , as the Papists do their Peter . In Winter time , when all is covered with snow , and the ground so hard frozen , as that no spade nor pikeax can enter , their manner is not to burie their dead , but to keep the bodies ( so many as die all the Winter time ) in an house , in the suburbs , or out parts of the town , which they call Bohsedom , that is , Gods house , where the dead bodies are piled up together like billets on a woodstack , as hard with the frost as a very stone , till the Springtide come , and resolveth the frost , what time every man taketh his dead friend , and committeth him to the ground . They have besides their years and moneths minds for their friends departed , what time they have prayers said over the grave by the Priest , who hath a penie ordinary for his pains . When any dieth , they have ordinary women mourners , that come to lament for the dead partie , and stand howling over the bodie , after a profane and heathenish manner ( sometimes in the house , sometimes bringing the bodie into the backside ) asking him what he wanted , and what he meant to die . They burie their dead , as the partie used to go , with coat , hose , boo●s , hat , and the rest of his apparel . Many other vain and superstitious ceremonies they have , which were long and tedious to report . By these it may appear how farre they are fallen from the true knowledge and practice of Christian religion , having exchanged the word of God for their vain traditions , and brought all to externall and ridiculous ceremonies , without any regard of spirit and truth , which God requireth in his true worship . CHAP. XXVI . Of the Emperours domestick , or private behaviour . THe Emperours private behaviour , so much as may be , or is meet to be known , is after this manner . He riseth commonly about 4. a clock in the morning . After his apparelling and washing , in cometh his ghostly father or priest of his chamber , which is named in their tongue , Otetz Duhouna , with his crosse in his hand , wherewith he blesseth him , laying it first on his forehead , then upon his cheeks , or sides of his face , and then offereth him the end of it to kisse . This done , the Clerk of the crosse ( called Chersby Deyack Prosery ) bringeth into his chamber a painted image , representing the Saint for that day . For every day with them hath his severall Saint , as it were the patron for that day . This he placeth among the rest of his image gods , wherewithall his chamber is decked , as thick almost as the wall can bear , with lamps and wax candles burning before them . They are very costly and gorgeously decked with pearl , and precious stone . This image being placed before him , the Emperour beginneth to crosse himself after the Russe manner , first on the forehead , then on both fides of his breast , with Aspody Pomeluy , Pomeluy mena hosp●dy , sacroy mena gresuick Syhodestua : which is as much to say , as , Help me O Lord my God , Lord comfort me , defend and keep me a sinner from doing evil , &c. This he directeth towards the image or Saint for that day ; whom he nameth in his prayer , together with our Ladie ( whom they call Precheste ) Saint Nicholas , or some other , to whom he beareth most devotion , bowing himself prostrate unto them , with knocking his head to the very ground . Thus he continueth the space of a quarter of an houre or thereabouts . Then cometh again the ghostly father or chamber priest with a silver bowl full of holy water , which they call in Russe , Tweta Voda , and a sprinkle of Basill ( as they call it ) in his hand : and so all to besprinkleth first the image-gods , and then the Emperour . This holy water is brought fresh every day from the Monasteries , farre and near , sent to the Emperour from the Abbot or Prior , in the name of the Saint , that is patron of that Monasterie , as a speciall token of good will from him . These devotions being ended , he sendeth in to the Empresse , to ask whether she hath rested in health , &c. And after a little pause goeth himself to salute her in a middle room betwixt both their chambers . The Empresse lieth apart from him , and keepeth not one chamber nor table with the Emperour ordinarily , save upon the eve of their Lents , or common Fasts , what time she is his ordinary guest at bed and boord . After their meeting in the morning , they go together to their private Church or Chapel , where is said or sung a morning Service ( called Zautrana ) of an houre long or thereabouts . From the Church he returneth home , and sitteth him down in a great chamber , to be seen and saluted by his Nobilitie , such as are in favour about the Court. If he have to say to any of them , or they to him , then is the time . And this is ordinary , except his health , or some other occasion alter the custome . About nine in the morning he goeth to another Church within his Castle , where is sung by Priests and Choristers the high Service ( called Obeadna or Complin ) which commonly lasteth two houres , the Emperour in the mean time talking commonly with some of his Councel , Nobilitie , or captains , which have to say to him , or he to them : And the Councel likewise conferre together among themselves , as if they were in their councel house . This ended , he returneth home , and recreateth himself untill it be dinner time . He is served at his table on this manner . First , every dish ( as it is delivered at the dresser ) is tasted by the Cook , in the presence of the high Steward , or his Deputie , and so is received by the Gentlemen wayters ( called Shilshey ) and by them carried up to the Emperours table , the high Steward or his Deputie going before : There it is received by the Sewer ( called Erastnoy ) who giveth a taste of every dish to the Taster , and so placeth it before the Emperour . The number of his dishes for his ordinarie service is about seventy , dressed somewhat grossely , with much garlick and salt , much after the Dutch manner . When he exceedeth upon some occasion of the day , or entertainment of some Ambassadour , he hath many more dishes . The service is sent up by two dishes at a time , or three at the most , that he may eat it warm , first the baked , then the rost meats , and last the broths . In his dining chamber is another table , where sit the chief of his Nobilitie that are about his Court , and his ghostly father , or Chaplain . On the one side of the chamber standeth a cupboard or table of plate , very fair and rich , with a great cistern of Copper by it , full of ice and snow , wherein stand the pots that serve for that meal . The taster holdeth the cup that he drinketh in all dinner time , and delivereth it unto him with a say , when he calleth for it . The manner is to make many dishes out of the service after it is set on the table , and to send them to such Noblemen and officers as the Emperour liketh best . And this is counted a great favour and honour . After dinner he layeth him down to rest , where commonly he taketh three houres sleep , except he employ one of the houres to bathing , or boxing . And this custome for sleeping after dinner is an ordinary matter with him , as with all the Russes . After his sleep , he goeth to evensong ( called Vechurna ) and thence returning , for the most part recreateth himself with the Empresse till supper time , with jesters , and dwarfs , men and women , that tumble before him , and sing many songs after the Russe manner . This is his common recreation betwixt meals , that he most delights in . One other speciall recreation is the fight with wild Bears , which are caught in pits , or nets , and are kept in barred cages for that purpose , against the Emperour be disposed to see the pastime . The fight with the Bear is on this sort . The man is turned into a circle walled round about , where he is to quit himself so well as he can , for there is no way to flie out . When the Bear is turned loose , he cometh upon him with open mouth . If at the first push he misse this aim , so that the Bear come within him , he is in great danger . But the wild Bear , being very fierce , hath this qualitie , that giveth advantage to the Hunter ; his manner is when he assaileth a man to rise up right on his two hinder legs , and so to come roring with open mouth upon him : And if the Hunter then can push right into the very breast of him , betwixt his forelegges ( as commonly he will not misse ) resting the other end of their boarspear at the side of his foot , and so keeping the pike still towards the face of the Bear , he speedeth him commonly at one blow . But many times these Hunters come short , and are either slain , or miserably torn with the teeth and talents of the fierce beast . If the partie quit himself well in this sight with the Bear , he is carried to drink at the Emperours seller doore : where he drinketh himself drunk for the honour of Hospodare . And this is his reward for adventuring his life , for the Emperours pleasure . To maintain this pastime the Emperour hath certain huntsmen that are appointed for that purpose to take the wild Bear. This is his recreation commonly on the holy dayes . Sometimes he spendeth his time in looking upon his goldsmiths , and jewellers , taylers , embroiderers , painters , and such like , and so goeth to his supper . When it draweth towards bed time , his priest saith certain prayers , and then the Emperour blesseth and crosseth himself , as in the morning , for a quarter of an houre or thereabouts , and so goeth to his bed . The Emperour that now is ( called Theodore Juanowich ) is for his person of a mean stature , somewhat low and grosse , of a sallow complexion , & inclining to the dropsie , hawk-nosed , unsteadie in his pace by reason of some weaknesse of his limbs , heavie and unactive , yet commonly smiling almost to a laughter . For qualitie otherwise , simple and slow-witted , but very gentle , and of an easie nature , quiet , mercifull , of no martiall disposition , nor greatly apt for matter of policie , very superstitious , and infinite that way . Besides his private devotions at home , he goeth every week commonly on pilgrimage to some Monasterie or other that is nearest hand . He is 34. years old , or thereabouts , and hath reigned almost the space of six years . CHAP. XXVII . Of the Emperours private or houshold Officers . THe chief officers of the Emperours houshold are these which follow . The first is the office of the Boiaren Conesh●●● , or Master of the Horse . Which containeth no more then is expressed by the name , that is , to be eversee● of the Horse , and not magister equitum , or Master of the Horsemen . For he appointeth other for that service , as occasion doth require ( as before was said . ) He that beareth that office at this time , is Borris Pederowich Godonoe , brother to the Empresse . Of Horse for service in his warres ( besides other For his ordinary uses ) he hath to the number of 10000. which are kept about Mosko . The next is the Lord Steward of his houshold , at this time , one Gregorie Vasilowich Godonoe . The third is his Treasurer , that keepeth all his moneys , jewels , plate , &c. now called Stepan Vasilowich Godonoe . The fourth his Controller , now Andreas Petrolowich Clesinine . The fifth his Chamberlain , He that attendeth that office at this time , is called Estoma Bisabr●za Pastelnischay . The sixth his Tasters , now Theodore Alexandrowich , and Juan Vasilowich Godonoe . The seventh his Harbengers , which are three Noblemen , and divers other Gentlemen that do the office under them . These are his ordinary officers , and offices of the chiefest account . Of Gentlemen beside that wait about his chamber and person ( called Shilsey Strapsey ) there are two hundred , all Noblemens sonnes . His ordinary Guard is 2000. Hagbutters ready with their pieces charged , and their match lighted , with other necessary furniture , continually day and night : which come not within the house , but wait without in the court or yard , where the Emperour is abiding . In the night time there lodgeth next to his bedchamber the chief Chamberlain , with one o● two more of best trust about him . 〈◊〉 second chamber off there lodge s●… other of like account , for their trust and faithfulnesse . In the third chamber lie certain young Gentlemen , of these two hundred called Shilsey Strapsey , that take their turns by fourties every night . There are Grooms besides that watch in their course , and lie at every gate and doore of the Court called Estopnick . The Hagbutters or Gunners , whereof there are two thousand ( as was said before ) watch about the Emperours lodging or bed-chamber by course , two hundred and fiftie every night , and two hundred and fiftie more in the Court yard , and about the Treasure-house . His court or house at the Mosko is made Castle-wise , walled about , with great store of fair ordinance planted upon the wall , and containeth a great breadth of ground within it , with many dwelling houses , which are appointed for such as are known to be sure , and trustie to the Emperour . CHAP. XXVIII . Of the private behaviour or qualitie of the Russe people . THe private behaviour and qualitie of the Russe people may partly be understood by that which hath been said concerning the publick state and usage of the countrey . As touching the naturall habit of their bodies , they are for the most part of a large size , and of very fleshly bodies : accounting it a grace to be somewhat grosse and burley , and therefore they nourish and spread their beards to have them long and broad . But for the most part they are very unwieldie and unactive withall . Which may be thought to come partly of the climate , and the numbnesse which they get by the cold in winter , and partly of their diet , that standeth most of root● , onions garlick , cabbage , and su●h like things that breed grosse humours , which they use to eat alon● and with their other meats . Their diet is rather much then curious . At their meals they begin commonly with a Chark or small cup of Aqua vitae ( which they call Russe wine ) and then drink not till towards the end of their meals , taking it in largely , and altogether , with kissing one another at every pledge . And therefore after dinner there is no talking with them , but every man goeth to his bench to take his afternoons sleep , which is as ordinary with them as their nights rest . When they exceed , and have varietie of dishes , the first are their baked meats ( for rost meats they use little ) and then their broaths or pottage . To drink drunk , is an ordinary matter with them every day in the week . Their common drink is Mead : the poorer sort use water , and a thin drink called Quasse , which is nothing else ( as we say ) but water turned out of his wits , with a little branne meashed with it . This diet would breed in them many diseases , but that they use bathstoves or hot-houses in stead of all Physick , commonly twice or thrice every week . All the winter-time , and almost the whole Summer , they heat there Peaches , which are made like the Germane bathstoves , and their Potlads like ovens , that so warm the house , that a stranger at the first shall hardly like of it . These two extremities , specially in the winter of heat within their houses , and of extreme cold without , together with their die● , maketh them of a dark and fallow complexion , their skinnes being tanned and parched both with cold and with heat ; specially the women , that for the greater part are of farre worse complexions then the men . Whereof the cause I take to be their keeping within the hot houses , and busying themselves about the heating and using of their bathstoves and peaches . The Russe , because that he is used to both these extremities of heat and of cold , can bear them both a great deal more patiently then strangers can do . You shall see them sometimes ( to season their bodies ) come out of their bathstoves all on a froth , and fuming , as hot almost as a pig at a spit , and presently to leap into the ●…ver , stark naked 〈◊〉 or to poure cold water all ●ver● their bodies , and that in the coldest of all the winter-time . The women to mend the bad hue of their skinnes use to paint their faces with white and red colours , so visibly , that every man may perceive it . Which is made no matter , because it is common , and liked well by their husbands : who make their wives and daughters an ordinary allowance to buy them colours to paint their faces withall , and delight themselves much to see th●m of fowl women to become such , fair images . This parcheth the skin , and helpeth to deform them when their painting is off . They apparel themselves after the Greek manner . The Noblemans attire is on this fashion : First a Taffia , or little night cap on his head , that covereth little more then his crown , commonly very rich , wrought of silk and gold thread , and set with pearl & precious stone . His head be keepeth shaven close to the very skin , except he be in some displeasure with the Emperour : Then he suffereth his hair to grow and hang down upon his shoulders , covering his face as uggly and deformedly as he can . Over the Taffia he weareth a wide cap of black Fox ( which they account for the best furre ) with a Tiara or long bonnet put within it , standing up like a Persian or Babylonian hat . About his neck ( which is seen all bare ) is a coller set with pearl and precious stone , about three or foure fingers broad . Next over his shirt ( which is curiously wrought , because he strippeth himself into it in the Summer time , while he is within the house ) is a Shepon , or light garment of silk , made down to the knees , buttoned before : and then a Caftan or a close coat buttoned , and girt to him with a Persian girdle , whereat he hangs his knives and spoon . This commonly is of cloth of gold , and hangeth down as low as his ancles . Over that he weareth a loose garment of some rich silk , furred and faced about with some gold lace , called a Ferris . Another over that of chamlet , or like stuff called an Alkaben , sleeved and hanging low , and the cape commonly broached , and set all with pearl . When he goeth abroad , he casteth over all these ( which are but sleight though they seem to be many ) another garment , called an Honoratkey , like to the Alkaben , save that it is made without a coller for the neck ; and this is commonly of fine cloth , or Camels hair . His buskins ( which he weareth in stead of ●os● , with linen folles under them in stead of boot-hose ) are made of a Persian leather , called Saphion , embroidered with pearl . His upper stocks commonly age of cloth of gold . When he goeth abroad , he mounteth on horseb●●k , though it be but to the next doore , which is the manner also of the Boiarskey , o● Gentlemen . The Baiarskey or Gentlemans attire is of the same fashion , but differeth in stuff : and yet he will have his Caftan or undercoat sometimes of cloth of gold , the rest of cloth , or silk . The Noblewoman ( called Chyna Boiars●ena ) weareth on her head first ●cau● of some soft silk ( which is commonly red ) and over it a frontle● , called Obrosa of white colour over that her cap ( made after the coif fashion of cloth of gold ) called Shapka Zempska , edged with some rich furre , and set with pearl and stone . Though they have of late begun to disdain embroidering with pearl about their caps , because the Dyacks and some Merchants wives have taken up the fashion . In their ears they wear ear-rings ( which they call Sargee ) of two inches or more compasse , the matter of gold set with Rubies , or Saphires , or some like pretious stone . In summer they go often with kerchiefs of fine white lawn , or cambrick , fastned under the chinne , with two long tassels pendent . The kerchief spotted & set thick with rich pearl . When they ride or go abroad in rainie weather , they wear white hats with coloured bands ( called Stapa Zemskoy . ) About their necks they wear collers of three or foure fingers broad , set with rich pearl and precious stone . Their upper garment is a loose gown , called Oposken , commonly of skarlet , with wide loose sleeves , hanging down to the ground , but tened before with great gold buttons , or at least silver and guilt , nigh as big as a walnut . Which hath hanging over it , fastned under the cap , a large broad cape of some rich furre , that hangeth down almost to the middes of their backs . Next under the Oposken or upper garment , they wear another , called a Leitnick , that is made close before with great wide sleeves , the cuff or half sleeve up to the elbows , commonly of cloth of gold , and under that a Ferris Zemskoy , which hangeth loose buttoned throughout to the very foot . On the handwrests they wear very fair bracelets , about two fingers broad of pearl and precious stone . They go all in buskins of white , yellow , blue , or some other coloured leather , embroidered with pearl . This is the attire of the Noblewomen of Russia , when she maketh the best shew of her self . The Gentlewomans apparell may differ in the stuff , but is all one for the making or fashion . As for the poore Mousick and his wife they go poorly clad . The man with his Odnoratkey , or loose gown to the small of the legge , tyed together with a lace before , of course , white or blue cloth , with some Shube or long wastcote of furre , or of sheep-skinne under it , and his furred cap , and buskins . The poorer sort of them have their Odnoratkey , or upper garment , made of Cows hair . This is their winter habit . In the summer time commonly they wear nothing but their shirts on their backs and buskins on their legges . The woman goeth in a red or blue gown , when she maketh the best shew , and with some warm Shube of furre under it in the winter time . But in the summer , nothing but her two shirt● ( for so they call them ) one over the other , whether they be within doors , or without . On their heads they wear caps of some coloured stuff , many of velvet , or of cloth of gold , but for the most part kerchiefs . Without ear-rings of silver or some other metall , and her crosse about her neck , you shall see no Russe woman , be she wife or maid . As touching their behaviour , and quality otherwise , they are of reasonable capacities , if they had those means that some other nations have to train up thei●… it s in good nurture and learning . Which they might borrow of the Polonians , and other their neighbours , but that they refuse it of a very self pride , as accounting their own fashions to be farre the best . Partly also ( as I said before ) for that their manner of bringing up ( void of all good learning and civil behaviour ) is thought by their governours most agreeable to that State , and their manner of government . Which the people would hardly bear , if they were once civilled , and brought to more understanding of God , and good policie . This causeth the Emperours to keep out all means of making it better ; and to be very warie for excluding all peregrinitie , that might alter their fashions . Which were lesse to be disliked , if it set not a print into the very minds of his people . For as themselves are very hardly and cruelly dealt withall by their chief Magistrates , and other superiours ; so are they as cruell one against another , specially over their inferiours , and such as are under them . So that the basest and wretchedest Christianoe ( as they call him ) that stoopeth and croucheth like a dog to the Gentleman , and licketh up the dust that lieth at his feet , is an intolerable tyrant where he hath the advantage . By this means the whole Countrey is filled with rapine and murder . They make no account of the life of a man. You shall have a man robbed sometime in the very streets of their towns , if he go late in the evening , and yet no man to come forth out of his doores to rescue him , though he hear him crie out . I will not speak of the strangenesse of the murders , and other cruelties committed among them , that would scarcely be believed to be done among men , specially such as professe themselves Christians . The number of their vagrant and begging poore is almost infinite , that are so pinched with famine and extreme need , as that they begge after a violent and desperate manner , with give me and cut me , give me and kill me , and such like phrases . Whereby it may be ghessed what they are towards strangers , that are so unnaturall and cruell , towards their own . And yet it may be doubted whether is the greater , the crueltie or intemperancie that is used in that countrey . I will not speak of it , because it is so foul , and not to be named . The whole countrey overfloweth with all sinne of that kind . And no marvell , as having no law to restrain whoredomes , adulteries , and like uncleannesse of life . As for the truth of his word , the Russe for the most part maketh small regard of it , so he may gain by a lie , and breach of his promise . And it may be said truly ( as they know best that have traded most with them ) that from the great to the small ( except some few● that will scarcely be found ) the Russe neither believeth any thing that another man speaketh , nor speaketh any thing himself worthy to be believed . These qualities make them very odious to all their neighbours , specially to the Tartars , that account themselves to be honest and just in comparison of the Russe . It is supposed by some that do well consider of the state of both countreys , that the offe●…iey take at the Russe government , 〈◊〉 their manner of behaviour , hath been a great cause to keep the Tartar still ●…athenish and to mislike ( as he doth ) of the Christian profession . FINIS .