Commentary on the Old Testament Volume 2-4

to make friendship with him, if he would also permit the Greek Cities under his dominion to be free. About which there was much and long disputation sundry times, till at length both he prepared to fight against the Romans, and they against him, but they first by sacrifices consulted with their Soothsayers, and when they promised all good success to be shown by the entrails, they with confidence, and yet great care and circumspection proceeded, and thus they commonly used to do, and when they had prevailed against any Nation, appointed days for solemn thanksgiving to their gods, as they were then blindly led: as after the subduing of Macedonia, there were five days appointed. Acilius the Consul had the care of this war with Antiochus committed unto him, who therefore sailed over into Greece, according to some with an Army of 10000, according to others of 20000. Philip King of Macedonia, and Ptolemy of Egypt, offered their help to the Romans, but they had only thanks, and their help refused. Antiochus because he also had but a small Army of 10000 foot, and 500 horse, takes the advantage of the straits of Termopylae to fight in. But even there having fortified himself most strongly, he was so overthrown, that he fled away only with 400 men the rest being slain.

Then Acilius fought against the Etolians, the associates of Antiochus, and having subdued them would have followed him over into Asia, where he thought himself secure. Yet by the persuasion of Hannibal, who was yet with him, he made great preparations for the War, which was first begun at Sea by Livius Admiral of the Romans▪ and the Antiochians were beaten, many ships being taken, some drowned, and the rest put to flight. But the Kings Navall forces being renewed again by Polixenidas his Admiral, he sought by policy to circumvent the Navy of the Rhodians, consisting of 25 ships, over which was Pausistratus. For he himself was a Rhodian, and bare an hatred against Pausistratus, ever since his banishment from thence. Wherefore he now meditating revenge sent unto him an offer to deliver all Antiochus his ships under his government into his hands, requiring no recompense but restitution to his Country, Pausistratus accepted the offer and the time in the night appointed, when he coming securely according to appointment was suddenly beset round with 70 ships, and his Navy taken and he valiantly fighting slain. This notwithstanding, the Rhodians desirous of revenge sent out 20 ships more, which being joined to the Romans, fought against the Antiochians, and overcame them, and finally, gat the dominion of the Sea. But before this, Acilius his time being expired, and another Consul, Scipio coming in place, he delivering his forces over to him returned to Rome, and Scipio after some delay in Greece, whilst these things were doing, sailed into Asia, which struck such terror into Antiochus, that he sent Ambassadors to him to sue for peace, leaving Antiochia a chief City in Asia, full of all manner of provision, and munition unto him. Scipio propounded conditions so hard beyond these that Antiochus offered, that he was forced to fight. Wherefore he gathered together a great army consisting of more then 70000 men, the Consul having not full 30000, so Appian: but Livy addeth 12000 horsemen, and Nauclerus saith, that his whole army was 300000: yet when they joined battle, although they fought valiantly, and sometime put some part of the Roman army to flight, yet they by the encouragement of other Captains coming on again struck such terror into their enemies, that they soon overcame and routed the whole army of Antiochus, slaying 50000 men, and putting the King to flight, so that he ceased not, till he was gone out of Asia into Syria. Then he sent Ambassadors again to sue for peace, giving them power to conclude upon any terms. Scipio then granted him peace upon condition first to pay all the charges of the War, viz. 15000 talents, whereof 500 down, and 2500 when the Senate had confirmed the peace, and for 12 years 1000 talents per annum. 2 to abstain from all Asia on this side of the Mountain Taurus. 3 to deliver 20 hostages, whereof Hannibal to be one, but he escaped to the King of Bythinia, as was said before. 4 to pay to Eumenes, King of Pergamos, 40 talents for his damages. When the hostages were sent, the Kings younger son, called Antiochus, was sent for one. Before Antiochia left by Antiochus, he might have agreed upon easier conditions: but after not, because, said Scipio, the case now differed. Thus Lu. Scipio chosen Tribune purposely, his brother Corn. Scipio being joined as Legat with him, having prevailed over Asia, had the name Asiaticus given unto him, as his brother had Affricanus: but they were both evil rewarded at the last by the people, who accused them for defrauding the State of the the treasure which they had taken in those Wars. When Antiochus was thus confirmed to his Kingdom of Syria, he said, that he thanked the Roman Consul for easing him of so much care and trouble as was before upon him, no more now being to be taken by him, then his own Kingdom of Syria required. When the news of this conquest came to Rome, three days were appointed for thanksgiving, and 40 greater sacrifices. But still the Etolians remained unsubdued, wherefore Fulvius a new chosen Consul was sent against them, who came with his army against the City Ambracia, where he was a long time valiantly resisted. But at length, the City being in danger to be taken, the Etolians sought peace and obtained it for 500 tal • nrs, whereof 200 to be paid down, and the other 300 in six years, and it was conditioned that they should never do any hostile act against any City in league with the Romans, and for performance of this, 40 hostages to begiven, none of them being under 12, and none above 40 years old. Antiochus the King of Syria, after the loss of Asia and his becoming tributary, died the second year, Anno Regni 27, and Seleucus Philopator his son succeeded him, happily being called Philopater, for the wars which he had valiantly fought in for his father against the Romans and others: but during all the time of his reign, which was 12 years, he lived idly, and did nothing worth remembrance, but that he sent Demetrius his son for a pledge to Rome, instead of Antiochus his brother, and called him home. But this was ill requited, for within a short time after his brothers return, he was slain by Heliodorus through treachery. Yet Polybius saith, that Antiochus had no hand in it, for he was but upon the way in returning from Rome, and that Heliodorus did it out of ambition, thinking that whereas he had ruled hitherto over all under the King, he would now, the King being taken away, make himself King. But he was prevented, for Eumenes King of Pergamos, together with his brother Attalus, came upon him, and slue him, and brought in Antiochus to be King, thus making him their friend. And this Heliodorus is thought to be he that came into the treasury of the Lord's house so proudly to rifle it, to gather money for the King, wherewith to pay his tribute, and so, it may be noted, how justly God cut off the King by the same man, that he had used to rob God for him. The History is set forth at large, 2 Machab. 3. whereby we may also understand in what state the Jews were in those days.

Touching Philip the King of Macedon in those days, he having made his peace with the Romans, as was formerly said, could not through the haughtiness of his mind, long endure, the conditions of peace put upon him. For a time indeed he was so obsequious and liberal towards them, and fought so courageously for them, that his son Demetrius was restored to him, whom he had sent as a pledge to Rome, and his tribute was remitted, and he received as a friend. But then he did many things against the Athenians and others, for which he was complained of before the Senate, and therefore sent his son Demetrius to answer for him. He behaved himself so well and so discreetly sought to salve his fathers faults, that the Senate rested satisfied, and sent him back with this answer written: that for the sake of Demetrius they were content to pass over all his offenses, and that he should have peace still. At this Philip was not a little offended, seeing his son to be preferred before him, which made him jealous, that by the help of the Romans, he might be set up shortly for King. Perseus his other son perceiving this, sought to stir up his father more and more against him, till that a means of his destruction was found out, and a color to justify it, viz. that he meditated to flee to the Romans, and so he was by one appointed to keep him company by his father circumvented and poisoned at a sacrifice, which was instituted purposely. But this cruel and unnatural act of his father went not unrevenged, for he was soon after much troubled for it in his mind, and sometimes terrified by his ghost appearing unto him and his son Perseus, whom he so much loved, that had stirred him up against his brother, came to be hated by him, in so much that he sought his destruction also. But he being aware of it fled and kept so far off that he could not take him, yet he determined to prevent him of the Kingdom after his death, by setting up one Antigones to be King. But before that he could do this, he being over oppressed with sorrow and misery ended his life, and Perseus came with speed, and took possession of the Kingdom.

In this time Ptolemy Epiphanes the King of Egypt died, when he had reigned 24 years, according to some 23, and left his Kingdom to Ptolemy Philometor his son who was so called per antiphrasin, because his mother hated him so much, that she procured his banishment in his fathers life time, that she might have opportunity to prefer her younger son Phiscon to the Kingdom. But the father being dead, Ptolemy got the Kingdom, and his mother Cleopatra was afterwards slain by Phiscon, who she had so much loved. And about four years after Antiochus called Epiphanes, the brother of Seleucus obtained the Kingdom of Syria, Demetrius his son being then but a child of 10 years old, & a pledge at Rome.

Touching the Jews affairs, Onias, according to Funccius, succeeded his father, called Simon Justus, in the High-priesthood, in which he continued 39 years, beginning, Anno 8 of Ptolemy Philopater. Of the sufferings of the Jews in his time by Ptolemy, and their miraculous preservation, see before, as also, into what danger Judea was brought through the covetousness of Onias, but delivered again by Joseph his nephew, which Joseph was Prince of the Jews sixty years. And after him succeeded Ianna Hircanus second, 16 years, who was the last Prince of the house of David, and was slain by Antiochus Epiphanes in the assault of a Castle which he had made upon Jordan, but this Hircanus, who was the son of Joseph, seeing that he was in danger by Antiochus, slue himself, as hath been before shown, according to Josephus, Ant. lib. 12. cap. 5. After this, the High-priests were the chief Governors amongst the Jews, and Onias being dead, they were made by the Kings of Syria both Jason, who sat three years, and he instituted a Gymnasium in Jerusalem, for the exercising of youth after the Heathen manner of the Grecians, and Menelaus 12 years, and Alcimus four years. Then the High-priesthood having ceased five years, fell to the Asmonaei, viz. to Ionathas brother to Judas Maccabeus, who held it 19 years, thus Funccius briefly, placing yet the beginning of Jason, anno 6 of Ianna Hircanus. But Josephus more at large saith, that Onias being dead, Antiochus gave the High-priesthood to his brother Jesus, who called himself Jason, and then upon some displeasure taken against him, he being put down, his youngest brother Onias was preferred, who called himself Menelaus. Then the people took part with Jason, and Menelaus fled to Antiochus, and offered to set up the Heathen exercises of the Grecians at Jerusalem, and to cause the people to turn Grecians. Upon these conditions he was sent back to Jerusalem, and the contrary faction was threatened, so that many forsaking God's Ordinances, lived after the manner of Heathens. And Antiochus growing more powerful by the subduing of Egypt, came to Jerusalem and took away the treasure of the Temple, and commanded swine's flesh there to be sacrificed, for bad all circumcising of their children, and other things to be done contrary to God's Laws, for disobeying which, many suffered cruel death, and others were for fear corrupted, Then the Samaritans who had a Temple upon Mount Gerizim, having hitherto affected, to be counted the Jews kindred, and such as descended of Abraham, sent Ambassadors to Antiochus to let him understand that they were not of the Jews kindred, but came of the Medes, and that they would be all one people in manners and Religion with the Grecians. calling their Temple no more the Temple of the Lord, but the Temple of Jupiter of Greece, whereupon he granted them peace.

To return to Perseus the King of Macedonia, he having attained the Kingdom, sought the friendship of all the Countries of Grecia and sent to the Carthaginians to enter into a league with them, that he might be able to rebel against the Romans, which his father Philip had meditated before, and he since, because his brother Demetrius had been in so much favor with them, he should by their help have been preferred to the Kingdom. He was also a most wicked man, for he murdered his own wife, and sending for the man, who had poisoned his brother Demetrius, under a pretence of rewarding him, he put him to a cruel death. And hearing that Eumenes King of Pergamos, a confederate of the Romans, had been at Rome to inform against him, he by treachery, as he returned, sought his destruction. Yet he sent Ambassadors to Rome, pretending a desire to continue in their friendship, but they were rejected, and so the Macedonian War began the second time, which was fought with divers fortune, Perseus at the first, prevailing, and killing and taking many of the Romans, but soon after he was put to flight, and his men to the number of 20000 perished, and in four years he was brought to that pass, that he fled out of his Kingdom, leaving it as a prey to the Romans, and then being pursued, and forsaken by all men, he finally delivered himself into their hands, and was carried away to Rome, and so the Macedonian Kingdom ended in him, being the 16 from Alexander the Great, when it had continued 153 years.

A marvelous thing happened about that time viz. a total eclipse of the Moon, as Pliny writes, and this was foretold by Sulpitius a Roman Pretor, and afterwards Consul.

To return now again to Antiochus Epiphanes, he coming to the Kingdom of Syria after the death of his brother, as was said before, Demetrius being put by, who being but ten years old, and then at Rome was the right heir, took it upon him at the first, but as a Protector in the minority of Demetrius, but after a while he reigned as King. Then having a pretence, because Ptolemy Philometor was very young also, he sought the Protectorship of that Kingdom, because Ptolemy was his sisters son, and being herein resisted by the Lord's of Egypt, he prepared to war against them, and prevailed. Then making a fair show to Ptolemy, in his name he had almost all the Cities of Egypt yielded unto him, and placed in them new Governors, and carried away great riches from Egypt, so as none of his predecessors the Kings of Syria, had ever done before, according to Dan. 11. 24. But Alexandria, wherein the younger brother of Ptolemy was, that by his mother had been set up against him, he having a while besieged in vain, pretending to bring it to the obedience of Ptolemy the eldest, he was constremed at length to leave, and to return into Syria. Then Ptolemy sought to be reconciled to his brother, and by means of friends was, and they two divided the Kingdom between them. Antiochus hearing this, soon bewrayed his dissimulation, formerly used towards Philometor, in that he was so far from showing a good liking of this agreement of the two brothers his nephews, as that he was more enraged, and prepared to make fierce war against them both, being the bolder so to do, because the Romans were now busied in the Macedonian war, so that Ptolemy could not have help from them. At that time strange signs were seen over Jerusalem, of Armies fighting 40 days together, after which followed great slaughters in Jerusalem by means of Jason, who had attained the Highpriesthood for money, which he promised. For he not like a Priest but a Tyrant, secretly armed 1000 men, and coming suddenly upon the City, slue very many, until that the Citizens being gathered together made resistance, and drove him out of the City, after which hefled from one Country to another, till he miserably perished in Lacedemonia. In the spring, when Antiochus had all things ready, he set forward towards Egypt, and the two Ptolomees hearing of it, sent Ambassadors to him to stay him, by offering to give him satisfaction, if in anything they had given him occasion to come against them. He answered, that he would come on with his Army, unless all Cyprus were yielded to him, and Pelusium, and the grounds about the Pelusian mouth of Nile, &c. appointing also a time within which they should bring him answer. But the Ptolomees had also sent Ambassadors to Rome, to desire Legates to be sent to Antiochus, to forbid him to invade Egypt, which thing they speedily obtained, and Popilius with others was immediately sent, who made such haste that they met Antiochus, when he was going against Alexandria, and after salutation, Popilius immediately delivered the writing of the Senate unto him, requiring him to make answer, and when the King delayed, saying, that he would consider of it, he with his staff made a circle round about him, telling him that he should make answer, before that he went out of that circle. or else not at all. The King hearing this was much troubled, but not daring to do otherwise, answered, that he would obey the will of the Senate, whereupon Popilius gave him his right hand in token of friendship, and so her returned out of Egypt again. And of this Daniel prophesied long before, saying, He shall return to the South after a certain time, but the last shall not answer to the first: for the tryers of the Romans shall come upon him and smite him, that is, with terror, in case that he goes on, and so he shall return, &c. Antiochus coming out of Egypt again, went against Jerusalem, because he was told, that he was there reported to be dead, and the Citizens rejoiced at it, he also conceived that they would be ready to fall to Ptolemy King of Egypt, rather then to live under his obedience. Wherefore he brake with his Army into the City, and slue men, women, and children, three days together, to the number of eighty thousand, and took 40000, whom he sold for slaves. Then he spake proudly against the Jews and their God, and of his own power, and entered into the most holy place. Menelaus, who was then High-priest, going before him for Honors sake. And taking from thence all the most precious things, to the value of 180 Talents of gold and silver, he returned into his own Country. And after two years he sent two Governors to Jerusalem to profane the Temple with impute Sacrifices, to make the Jews to eat swine's flesh, to prohibit them circumcising, and to have the books of the Holy Scripture, and with whomsoever they were found, to put them to a cruel death, and likewise such as would not transgress in other things before named, or refuse to sacrifice to Idols. These coming therefore with great forces, burnt a great part of the City, and brake down the walls, and slue many of the Jews that would not go from the Law of their God, amongst whom some were singular, as Eleazarus an old man of 90, and a woman with her seven sons, who were put to greatest torments, as is shown in the Maccabees. Now when the condition of the Jews grew desperate, Mattathias and his sons who fled from Jerusalem, stood for the defense of the Law of God against their enemies. This Mattathias was the son of John, the son of Simeon, of the sons of Ioarib, who was the first of the 24 divisions of Priests, coming of Aaron in the days of David, and his great grandfathers name was Assamoneus, from whom they were called, Assamoneans, who were of that family. He had five sons, John, Simon, Judas, Eleazar, and Jonathan. The place unto which he fled with his sons was Mount Modin, which was a Village. And it being heard by the Heathen, Bacchides a bloody man was sent to compel the Jews there to sacrifice to Idols. Then he with many words exhorted Mattathias to sacrifice, promising that if he would so do, he should be numbered amongst the Kings friends, and when he could not prevail, a Jew was brought, who sacrificed before his face, that by his example he might be moved. But Mattathias enraged at it, ran upon him and slue him, and the party that brought him also, then he fled with his sons out of Modin to other solitary places, crying out when he went, to all such as had any zeal for the Law of God, to follow him, and so many of the Jews followed and joined with him, and their wives and children. But when the Heathen knew of it, they assaulted them upon the Sabbath day, when they would make no resistance, and slue a thousand of them, but Mattathias with his sons escaped, and unto them resorted the Synagogue of the Assida •• s, who are thought to be Essees, men of great zeal, and a most strict life. Then they resolved hereafter, if they should be set upon on the Sabbath day, to fight in their own defense. And they went about and beat down the Altars which the Heathens had set up, and slue many of those that had revolted to idolatry, and then Mattathias being very aged, died, committing the Captainship to his son Judas, who was surnamed Maccabeus, as being most valiant, adjoining Simon who was most wise unto him for a counselor, exhorting them to stand constantly for the Law of God, and blessing them, and promising success, and that the Tyrant Antiochus should come to ruin shortly.

Josephus Getionides saith, that Mattathias before his death took an horn of oil and anointed his son Judas High-priest, a trumpet being sounded and all the people crying out, vivat unctus. Egysippus saith, that he was anointed by Jos • ppus in his fathers presence with great acclamations of the people, and Josephus acknowledgeth him to have been his eldest son, but yet no High-priest, but a Prince and Captain, the High-priest at this time being Menelaus, and after him, Alcimus, then 5 years coming between, as was said before, out of Funccius, Jonathas, but elsewhere he make in Judas the successor of Alcimus in the high-priesthood, who sat three years. To leave this therefore whether he were now made High-priest or no, as uncertain, because in the Machab. History his principality is only spoken of, which began anno 1799 of Menelans his High-priesthood, anno 10 and continued six years, he succeeding his father, who had continued Captain one year, gathered together of such Jews as feared God and stood▪ for his law 6000, and with these he made many excursions against divers Castles in the night, and slue many, and took spoils. Then Apollonius Prince of Syria hearing of it gathered a great army and went against him, but Judas with his men soon routed his army, and slue Apollonius himself, and took his sword, wherewith he fought ever after. Then Seron, who was chief under Apollonius renewed the army and said, that he would go and slay Judas and those, that were with him and get him a name. And when he came near with a number of wicked men, the army of Judas seeing so great a multitude was much afraid. But he having encouraged them fell suddenly upon his enemies, and slue Seron and many of his army to the number of 800 pursuing them in the descent of Bethoron, and the rest fled into the land of the Philistines, leaving unto Judas and his men great spoils, which they divided amongst them. By this means Judas his fame was spread into all parts, and he became terrible to all his enemies. The news of these things being brought unto Antiochus, he was greatly incensed against the Jewish Nation, and therefore gathered a great army, and brought his treasures wherewith it might be paid for an whole year. But then finding his treasures so wasted that he could not subsist without a new supply of money, he taking half of his army went into Persia to gather more tribute there, and committed the other half to a kinsman called Lysias, bidding him to send them out against the Jews, and to root them out from being a people, and to bring in new inhabitants into their Country, he remaining to govern his Kingdom until his return, and to educate his son. Lysias then appointed Nicanor, Ptolemy and Gorgias, mighty men, and of the Kings friends to go against the Jews, delivering unto them 40000 foot and 7000 horse, and commanding them to kill up all the Jews, and out of their spoils to pay the tribute of 2000 talents due to the Romans. Judas Maccabeus hearing of this together with the Jews, assembled together in Maspah, to fast and pray in sackcloth and ashes, because Jerusalem lay desolate, being inhabited only by strangers. And having prayed he encouraged his men, whom he divided amongst his brethren, whom he made Captains, by putting them in mind of the great overthrow of the Assyrians in Sanneheribs time, when he came against the Jews, and of a more late overthrow of 120000 Galatians, given by 6000 Jews; with whom indeed many Macedoniaus were, but fought not. Whilst the Jews were thus preparing to fight, Gorgias took with him 5000 foot and a 1000 horse thinking to come upon Judas by night. But he having some notice of it, prevented him by coming against his whole army, being yet confused and over come, and slue of his men 9000, wounded many more, and put the rest to flight, that is, not the men with Gorgias, but the rest of the army left with Nicanor. For in the night, wherein Gorgias thought to come upon Judas, he went away with 3000 men, and came the next morning to Nicanors host unexpectedly, Gorgias being gone, and gave them this great overthrow. And not staying to take the spoil they prepared to fight with Gorgias, who was coming to resoue Nicanor, but so soon as his army came within the sight of the Jews, they were greatly afraid and fled, seeing also the tents on fire. Then Judas and his Jews returned and took the spoils which were great, and keeping the Sabbath the next day, praised God and prayed unto him to perfect their deliverance from their sins and enemies. But Nicanor fled to Antiochia alone, carrying the news of the armies overthrow, and saying, that God fought for the Jews, & that they were innumerable, which affected Lysias with wonderful grief, because he feared the wrath of Antiochus. Then Judas had a battle also with Timothy, destroying his army consisting of 20000 men. This Timothy was Captain of all the forces which came against the Jews in Gilead. 1 Mac. 5. 11 But Gorgias being vexed for his overthrow, gathered a greater army together then before, viz. of 60000 foot and 5000 horse, and went to fight against Judas, but he having first prayed with 10000 men set upon them, and prevailed so that he slue 5000 of his enemies and the rest fled. Wherefore Judas came to Jerusalem, and having exhorted his brethren fell to repairing of the Lord's Altar, and to purging of the Temple, and to rebuild the decayed places thereof, as is more largely shown, 1. Machab. 4. oblations being then made there, and the Temple dedicated, & the Feast of the Dedication instituted. The time, when these things were done, is said to be the 25 of the month K • slue, being the ninth month, upon the day that the Heathens first set up their abomination in the Temple. But how long it was from the time of profaning it to the time of purifying it, we must gather from 1 Machab. 1. 21, 30. and Chap. 4. 52. where it is said, that in the year 143 of the Greeks reign, Antiochus the Illustrious, who had begun to reign anno 137, came and destroyed the Jews, and robbed the Temple. And two years after he sent a Governor to rule there, who immediately converted the Temple to an house of Jupiter, setting up that Idol there. But anno 148, the Temple was again purified: so that from the polluting were three years, but according to Daniel 1290 days from the taking away of the daily sacrifice, that is, three years and 95 days, and if we allow so many days to come between the sacrifice ceasing and the setting up of this abomination in the Temple, there will be no difference. Then Judas and his Jews built the ruined walls of Jerusalem again, and went out and fought with and subdued the Edomites and Ammonites, and many other people's round about, dividing part of his army to his brother Simeon, whom he sent into Galilee, and he went into Gilead, 1 Machab. 5. and the cause of this his expedition is said to be, because they conspired together to destroy the Jews, after that they heard of their repairing of the Temple and City, being greatly vexed at it. When these things were thus done, Antiochus Epiphanes hearing thereof was so stricken, that he fell sick, and having lain so many days, seeing death approach, he confessed that his cruelty towards the Jews was the cause, and then committing his Kingdom to Philip, he died anno 149. of the Graecian Empire, and his son Antiochus Eupator reigned in his stead, so that this Tyrants whole time was but 12 years, and although God for the punishment of his people's sins permitted him not only to destroy them, but also to offer contumely to his own Majesty by blaspheming him, and proudly committing insolencies against the place of his habitation, which in times past he punished immediately in Heliodorus, Selencus and Ptolemy Philometor, yet he suffered him not above five years, and after the great profanation of the Temple but three years and odd days, then by his judgments extorting a confession from him took him away, when he had been vexed long at the loss of his men, and his great expenses to his extreme disgrace. Now this Antiochus was plainly a fore-runner or figure of Antichrist, who sits in the Temple of God, as he entered it, and exalts himself above God as he did, and prevaileth 1260 days, or three years and an half, as he did, but then comes to perdition, being cast into the lake, where the smoke of his torment ascends forever, as he is further declared to have died in great torment and misery, 2 Mach. 9. being first smitten, when he raged most against Jerusalem, and threatened to make the whole City a burying place, as is there more at large to be seen. Antiochus Eupator succeeding his father, being made King, when he was young by Lysias, whom his father had made Viceroy in his absence at Antiochia, went on in the steps of his wicked father against the Jews, and was soon cut off also. But he was first instigated against them by those of the Tower of Zion, who having hem'd in the Jews about the Sanctuary, were assaulted by Judas Maccabeus, and being in danger sent to Eupator to crave his help, complaining greatly of the Jews unto him. Upon this he being stirred up, prepared an Army of 100000 foot and 20000 horse to go against them, together with many Elephants, viz. 32, and came to Bethzura, where Judas encountered with him, and slue 600 of his men, but seeing his great power, he departed from him to Jerusalem to fortify it, and then Bethzura being yielded, the King went on against Jerusalem and besieged it, so that the Jews within were brought to a great straight for want of victuals. But such was the providence of God over them, that news now came, that Philip a friend of Antiochus Epiphanes, and by him appointed before his death to be tutor to his son, was returned from Persia, to take under this pretext the Kingdom upon him. Wherefore Lysias hearing it, persuaded Eupator to agree with the Jews, and to return, as the affairs of the Kingdom required. Yet when he had joined hands with Judas, and given him his faith, and both he and his Princes had sworn unto him, whereupon the Jews left the Tower of Zion, he seeing the strength of the place, contrary to his oath, brake down the walls of Jerusalem, and departed to Antiochia where Philip reigned, but was soon expelled by Eupator taking the City by force. Yet he enjoyed it not, for Demetrius the son of Seleucus, to whom of right the Kingdom of Syria belonged, being hitherto an hostage at Rome, now though not permitted to come home, and taking the Kingdom upon him, his subjects apprehended Antiochus Eupator, and Lysias, and brought them unto him, but he not willing, that they should come into his fight, commanded them to be carried away and slain, which was done accordingly, and this was anno 151 of the Graecian Kingdom, so that this enemy of God's people, and perjured Truce-breaker reigned not any longer, then from anno 149, to anno 151, which was not full two years, but all this is otherwise related, and with difference in the times, 2 Mach. 13. 14. and before that, Chap 9. 10, 11, 12. are divers other Histories of aid sent from heaven to help Judas, and many other things, which because I see not, how they can be reconciled with 1 Machab. I omit; as fabulous. For the manner of Demetrius his coming from Rome. Polybius hath it thus. He having spoken for himself before the Senate to be sent home into his Kingdom, being now 23 years old, and his request denied, and Uncles son made King, stole away from Rome, and obtained his Kingdom, as was aforesaid. Demetrius being King, Alcimus an ambitious man, and many other Jews with him came unto him with a complaint against Judas for destroying the Kings friends, and to desire of him the High-priesthood. The King hearing them granted his desire, and sent him to Bacchides a Ruler under him in those parts; that he with his forces might join with him against Judas. Then Bacchides went feigning, that he came peaceably, but Judas suspecting him would not come at him yet others both Priests and Elders were deceived by him and circumvented, and slain to the number of 60 persons. This the Jews took so heinously that they banded together against Bacchides his men, and Alcimus with whom he left them for his aid to attain the High-priesthood, he himself going to the King. And when Alcimus saw, that he was not able to withstand the force of the Jews under their Captain Judas Maccabeus coming against him, he also returned to the King and exasperated him more, so that he sent Nicanor against the Jews with a great army. But Judas having prayed, encountered him with only 3000 men, and slue of his 500. Then Nicanor went to the Tower of Zion, and thither reforted to him divers Priests and Elders seeking peace, and telling him, that they offered sacrifice for the King, but he deriding this, threatened, that unless they would deliver the City unto him, he would burn their Temple Then earnest prayers with fasting were made before the Lord in his host, and Nicanor going forth tofight Judas again encountered with him, and obtained a great victory, proud Nicanor, who was most infest against the Jews, being the first man, which was slain, and such of his forces, as fled, the Jews gathering themselves together from all parts slue, so that none of them escaped, and his right hand and head were cut off and hanged up at Jerusalem, praise being given to God, and a day kept for thanksgiving from year to year for this victory.

But when Demetrius heard, that Nicanor was overthrown, he appointed Bacchides to go again together with Alenius against the Jews, and to take the right horn of his army with him. In the mean season Judas knowing of what prowess the Romans were, so that all Kings stood in a we of them, he sent Ambassadors to Rome, to make a league with them, which was done accordingly, and Demetrius was forbidden to fight anymore against the Jews, as the Romans friends and Confederates. But before the return of the Ambassador Bacchides with Alcimus, and an army of 20000 men came to seek Judas to fight with him. Now Judas had with him only good who when they saw the multitude of their enemies withdrew themselves from him, so that 800 only remained. Then he stirring them up to the battle, they advised him rather to go first and gather their brethren together, because they being so few, were not able to fight against so great an army. But Judas abhorring from this, as an obscuring of all their former glory, exhorts them to fight it out unto the death, and so joining battle with the enemy, he at the first prevailed & slue many in the right horn where Bacchides was, and pursued them far, but then the left came upon his back, and his army fell, and Judas was slain also, anno 152 of the Grecian Empire. Thus the embassage sent to Rome stood Judas in no stead, neither do we read of any help the Jews had from them after his death, so that Rupertus noteth some offense to have been in Judas, his seeking help from Idolaters, when God had hitherto so mightily holpen him. For hereupon, first, God took away the courage of his men, when as with 3000 he had overcome Nicanor before, having a greater Army. 2 he withdrew the spirit of prayer, so that contrary to his wonted manner, without praying, he rushed into the battle. 3 without speaking of God, and his miraculous acts done formerly for his people, he was left to run upon the enemy, only with resolution to die in fighting valiantly, that the glory of his valor hitherto might be nothing eclipsed by any show of cowardice at this time, after the manner of another heroical spirit, that hath nothing but nature in him, yet I doubt not but that these his errors were pardoned, and he died God's faithful servant, and his admirable conrage through faith still liveth, as Samsons, and the memory of his zeal to the Law of God, to stir up others to the like.

Judas Maccabeus being dead, great lamentation was made for him by the Jews, and with one consent they made Jonathan his brother their Captain in his stead, who together with his brother Simeon, did fight often against their enemies with good success, so that at length Bacohides sought to make peace with them, and did, and then departed into his own Country. But Alcimus before this having broken down the wall of the outward Court of the Lord's house was smitten, so as that he died in great torment, anno 153 of the Greek Empire, first becoming dumb through a palsy. The wall broken down by him is said to have been the work of the Prophets, because built, as is thought, at the prophesying of Haggai and Zacharias. But God suffered him not to live to break it all down, for it is said, when he began to break it down, he was smitten with a palsy, &c. Thus a wicked man usurping the High-priesthood, through the favor of the Heathen King Demetrius, when with much difficulty and danger he came to the possession of it, Judas being dead, and Jonathan at that time fled over Jordan from Bacchides, when he saw that he could not prevail against him, was by the hand of God cut off, when he thought himself out of all danger.

To return to Jonathan, he now enjoying peace, sought to root out the wicked of the land, neither is anymore said of him till Anno 160 of the Greek Kingdom, that is, for six or seven years, in which time a great and long war begun between the Romans and the Celtebrians in Spain, which lasted 20 years. The occasion was for that Segeda a City of theirs, taking in other Villages into it, built a wall about all of 40 furlongs compasle, the Senatehearing of this forbad it, and required tribute formerly laid upon them, and when they persisted notwithstanding in their building, because although in their Articles it was said, that they should make no more new walls, yet it was not denied them to repair their old. But the Senate unsatisfied with their answer sent one Nobilior against them with 30000 men. The Segedians hearing of their coming, because their wall was not yet finished, sent their wives and children away to the City Arbaccos where they were well received, and one Catus was chosen Captain to go against the Romans, who set forth the third day after his election with 20000 foot and 5000 horse, placing himself so as that he might the most unexpectedly set upon the Romans, which he did, and slue of them 6000 men. But whilst he pursued them disorderly, the Roman horsemen coming upon him, slue both him and 6000 of his Army. Wherefore the Arba • cians choosing two new Captains Ambo and Le • co, prepared again to fight with Nobilior at the strong City Numantia, and he having received 300 Numidian horsemen from Massanissa approached the City, having also ten Elephants placed so in the Army, that at the first they could not be seen by the enemy, but they coming forth to fight, the Elephants were put forth amongst them, whereby their horses were made to run away with their riders amongst the foot, and thus their whole Army was soon disordered, and compelled to seek by flight to save themselves in the City. The Romans then coming with their Elephants near the walls, one of them happened to be wounded on the head with a great stone cast from the wall, whereupon being enraged he made a great noise, and ran upon the Romans, tossing up with his trunk such as he met with, and the rest hearing him did likewise whereby their whole Army was made to slee. The men in Numartia seeing this, issued forth with all speed and pursued them, till they had slain 4000 and taken three Elephants and many colors, but there perished of them 2000 also. And in all other attempts, Nobilior went by the loss, and when cold winter came on, many more of his perished with the cold, and other Cities seeing this, revolted from the Romans also, which brought them into a great straight, but at length being overcome by Marcellus. he imposed a mulct of 600 talents upon them, and so that war was ended. Whilst these things were doing in Spain, new troubles arose in Syria. For one Alexander, termed to be the son of Antiochus Epiphanes, cometh against King Demetrius to get the Kingdom from him, as his inheritance from his father. And this he was put on to do being an ignoblesellow by birth and education at Rhodes, by Ptolemy the King of Egypt, being also hospen by his wealth, and by Attalus King of Asia, and Ariaraihes, King of Cappadocia, for all Historians agree, that he was not the true son of Antiochus, though some say that he begat him of an whore. However, Demetrius was so hated by these Kings, that they agreed to make him King in his stead, by the name of Alexander son of Antiochus, and for this purpose he was first sent to Rome, and with him Heraclides, to move the Senate for their assistance, because Antiochus his pretended father was their friend, and Dometrius had taken the Kingdom upon him against their will, and if he might not have their assistance t • for their leave, that he might go into Syria, and use the help of his friends to obtain that Kingdom. The Senate consented to aid him, and so he coming to Ptolomuis took it, and reigned there. And yet when they did this, Demetrius had his young son Dometrius at Rome, whom he sent as an hostage to win their favor. When Demetrius heard of Alexanders coming, he wrote most kindly to Jonathan and the Jews, that he might have their aid, promising them many things, and Alexander wrote also unto them, making more ample promises. Therefore Jonathan remembering the enmity of Demetrius formerly shown to the Jews, leaving him, went to Alexander, because he believed not Demetrius, but took his great proffers to be made in dissimulation.

Then Jonathan was made High-priest by Alexander, who sent him a Purple and a Crown. Anno 160 of the Greek Empire, from which time he continued nine years, four of his former, nine since he was Prince being spent in Aleimus his time, and five in the vacuity of the High-priesthood, as was touched before. Alexander assisted by the Jews, then sought with Demetrius, and gave him a great overthrow, and slue him the same day. By this means he having obtained the Kingdom, sent to Prolomee King of Egypt, certifying him of his victory, and desiring to make affinity with him by marrying his daughter Cleopatra. To this he readily condescended, and coming with his daughter into Syria, Alexander took her to wife, and there was Jonathan greatly honored by both the Kings, and so returned to Jerusalem with joy.

But Alexander had not continued King full five years, before that Demetrius, the son of Demetrius came out of Crete to recover his fathers Kingdom, and he made Apollonius his chief Captain, Anno 165 of the Greek Empire. This Apollonius begun first with Jonathan, provoking him to battle, but to his own loss, for Jonathan taking with him ten thousand men went against him, his brother Simeon coming to his aid, and put him to flight to Ashdod, where he set the house of Dagon on fire, so that eight rhousand of the enemies perished, and he returned to Jerusalem with great spoils. Alexander hearing this, sent to honor Jonathan yet more with a golden button, used only to be given to the Kings kinsmen, and giving him Ekron for a perpetual inheritance. Prolomce the King of Egypt hearing of the coming of young Demetrius, came with a great army pretending friendship to his son in law, but meditating in his mind how to get away his Kingdom. But because he was father in law to Alexander, he gave order that he should be received into any City to which he came, and so he was, and as he went placed Garrisons. Then coming to Antioch, he sent to Demetrius offering him the same daughter which he had formerly married to Alexander, for he said it repented him that he had given her to him, because, he said, he sought his life, and so he took her from Alexander, and gave her to Demetrius to wife. Then he set two Crowns upon his own head, of Egypt and Asia, and Alexander full of fear fled into Arabia, where he was slain, and his head sent to Prolomee, but he died the third day after, and so Demetrius was King, Anno, 167 of the Greek Empire, and the Garrisons set by him in divers Cities were destroyed after the death of Prolomee, by the men of those places. Jonathan now besieging the Fort of Zion, certain wicked men complained against him to Demetrius, wherefore he sent for him to come to Prolomais, which he did, carrying presents with him, whereby when he came he obtained so much favor of the King that he honored him greatly, and confirmed the High-priesthood unto him, and granted him to wear purple and other Ornaments, as the Kings his predecessors had done, and at his request for 300 talents, gave him besides Judea three other Toparchyes. These things being done, and Demetrius having peace, he dismissed his forces, at which they being offended were drawn by one Tryphon to go to an Arabian, who kept Antiochus a child, the son of Alexander, to set him up for King, this Demetrius hearing wrote to Jonathan to come and help him, which he did, sending unto him 3000 Jews to his City, where 120000 men were gathered together against the King, but the Jews coming so dispersed themselves in the City, that they slue 100000 men, and then the rest entreated the King for favor. Josephus Lib. 13. Cap. 9. telleth this story so as to make it more probable, saying that the Jews being come were beaten back by the multitude of the Antiochians into the Kings Palace, from whence being high, they shot at them, and cast fire upon their houses, which whilst they labored to save their wives and children from, they came upon them and so were made to yield. Thus Demetrius again had peace, but he requited Jonathan ill for all the good that he had done him, exacting tribute of him: yet this went not long unrevenged, for young Antiochus hearing of it, wrote lovingly to Jonathan, making him many fair promises if he would be for him. Jonathan then consented, and raising a power took divers places, and then being incountered by a great Army of enemies his forces fled from him, so that he was left alone with only two of his Captains. But having humbled himself to God, and put earth upon his head and prayed, he set upon them and began to make a great slaughter. This his forces seeing, immediately returned to him, and so there were slain of the enemies 3000 men the same day. Josephus more probably saith, that Jonathan coming into the field, Asor with his Army, where the Demetrians lay in ambush, was by and by assaulted by them, unexpectedly on every side, hereupon his men fled from him, and he was left alone with two Captains only, and 500 of the most valiant men of his army. Then he humbling himself to God prevailed, as was said before. Jonathan after this being quiet, sent Ambassadors to the Romans, to renew the league formerly made with them, which was well accepted & granted, and the same Ambassadors having order to return by Lacedemonia, they did so, and renewed the friendship betwixt them and the Jews, as being before by them declared to be their kinsmen. But Jonathan lived not long in quiet, for the Demetrian forces, that they might be revenged upon him for their former overthrow, came against him in a greater number then before: he hearing this went out against them to the borders of Amathea, or Hamath, of whose coming when they heard, and so perceived, that they could not fight against him but upon advantage, they made fires in the night and departed, because they despaired of doing any good against him in an equal battle, At this time, saith Josephus, arose the three Sects amongst the Jews, of the Pharisees, Saddees, and Essees, of whom see more upon the Gospels. Jonathan seeing that the enemies were fled pursued them, but when he could not overtake them, he went into Arabia, and smote the Nabatheans, and took their spoils, and from thence to Damascus, and divers other places, taking them. At length returning to Jerusalem, he consulted with the Elders about the building of the walls thereof, and the Fortifications. But Tryphon began now to meditate how he might set the Crown upon his own head, young Antiochus being made away, and searing that Jonathan would herein be a let unto him, he raised an army to go against him, & Jonathan hearing of it, went against him with 40000 men to Bethshean, Tryphon then fearing his power feigned to come in friendship and received him with all honor, telling him that he came forth towards him as to a friend, and therefore that he was too blame to put all those men to this travel, persuading him to send them back again, which he did, and retained only 1000 men with him, and of those, that returned he sent 2000 into Galilee. Then Tryphen led him to Ptolomais, pretending to make him Lord thereof, but when he and his men were come into the City, they shut them in & flue them all except Jonathan, after which Tryphon also sent to Galilee to slay them, that were there of Jonathan's retinue, but they hearing before what was done to Jonathan, stood upon their own defense, which their enemies seeing would not adventure to meddle with them, & so they returned to Jerusalem, where great lamentation was made for Jonathan and his men, but the Heathens about rejoiced, thinking now, they being without a Prince should not be able to stand against them, but they should easily root them out from being a people. Simeon then, a third brother offered himself to be Captain for the Jews, and to spend his life for them, and the Law of God, as his two brethren Judas and Jonathan had done, which offer of his was joyfully accepted, and he began his Principality and Highpriesthood, anno 170 of the Graecian Empire, & immediately gathering men together he fortified Jerusalem. But Tryphon having Jonathan alive yet with him, went towards Jerusalem with his army, & Simeon towards him. This Tryphon seeing sent unto him to tell him that he held not Jonathan for any other cause but for an 100 talents of tribute which he ought to the King, therefore if he would send him this money, and Jonathan's two sons for pledges, he would set Jonathan at liberty again. This howsoever Simeon thought to be spoken in deceit, yet to stop the mouths of clamorous people, he sent the money, and pledges, but Jonathan was kept still, and within a while after slain, as Tryphon was coming with all his horsemen in haste to relieve the Fort of Zion, but was stayed by abundance of snow falling at the same time. Then Tryphon returned into his own land, and having by treachery slain young Antiochus, he took the Kingdom upon him. But Simeon sent and took the bones of Jonathan his brother and burnt them in Modin, erecting a fair monument there, and upon it seven Pyramids to his father and mother, and his four brethren. Then he sent to King Demetrius, desiring to have the Tribute released, and freedom to Jerusalem restored, which was immediately yielded unto, and many other favors offered by the King unto the Jews, and so the Jews that had been always under Heathen Kings from their return out of the Babylonish Captivity, now became free in the first year of Simon, being now subjects no more to these Kings, but their friends, and this was Anno mundi 3823, that is, 397 years after their return, which was, Anno 3426. Hereupon Simeon took courage, and set upon Heliopolis, so that they soon yielded the City to him, and likewise upon the Fort of Zion, which was also yielded, and purged both these places from Idols, setting up the worship of the true God there. After which he lived long in peace, and in great glory, and the Jews lived happily in all his Dominion, sitting everyone under his vine and fig tree. Demetrius then pursued Tryphon, but coming into the Kingdom of Arsaces, King of the Medes and Persians, he sent and took him alive, and so kept him prisoner. For King of Persians, Justin hath King of Parthians, and that more rightly, because the Parthian had now those parts. For the cause why Demetrius went thither, Josephus saith, that he was moved by many Embassages of the Grecians, over whom Arsaces tyrannized, to come, and when he came he was supplied with a great Army, but fighting against Arsaces, he was overcome and taken alive.

Then Antiochus the son of Demetrius wrote from the Islands of the Sea to Simeon, to induce him to his friendship, granting him all that ever was granted to him or Jonathan before. But when as gathering great forces he had brought Tryphon to a straight, being aided also by 2000 men sent from Simeon unto him, he himself pursuing him, as he fled he sent Kendebeus a Captain with a great part of his Army to challenge Simeon for usuring dominion over Ioppe, and other places, requiring him to deliver them, or else he would destroy the Jews, and if he would still hold, and take the tribute of those places, to send him 500 talents, and 500 more for the damages done there. And because he would not, alleging that those parts belonged to the inheritance of their fathers, but only offered to give 100 talents, Kendebeus began to assault the Jews about Iamnta. This being told unto Simeon, he being now old committed the managing of the war to his two sons Judas and Iochanan, exhorting them to be valiant, and praying for them. Then they went out with 20000 foot and some horse, and encountering with Kendebeus, routed his Army, and slue many, but Judas was wounded, yet Iochanan pursued them to Gadorum, killing many more▪ and so returned to Jerusalem. Of the cause of Antiochus his perfidy towards Simeon, nothing is said in Maccabees, but it is implied in saying, that the Forces of Tryphon revolted to him, by which means he thought easily to overcome him, and so he should have no need of Simeon's aid. There was then one Ptolemy, the son in law of the High-priest, who was Governor of Jericho, he ambitiously aspiring after the Principality, plotted how to cut off Simeon and his sons, and when he had invited him and his sons Mattathias and Judas to a feast to Jericho, he caused them to be treacherously slain whilst they were drinking with him, Anno 177 of the Graecian Empire. Then he sent to Antiochus for forces, promising to deliver the Country unto him. And others he sent to kill Iochanan, but he being forewarned took them when they came and slue them. Thus the three sons of Mattathias the Assamonean, after many glorious victories obtained were all slain. But treacherous Ptolemy obtained not his end. For Iochanan, whom Josephus calleth Hircanus, taking the High-priesthood upon him, after that he had sought unto God, gathered an Army, which readily flocked unto him, for the love of his father and hatred of Ptolemy, and herewith he besieged him, and could easily have taken the place, which was a Tower called Dagon in Jericho, but only Ptolemy having Iochanans mother with him, when he was assaulted, caused her to be openly beaten on the walls with whips, at which Iochanan relenting languisht in his fight, yea although she sought to move him to go on without regard unto her, to get so treacherous an enemy into his hand, that he might suffer according to all his wickedness, yet he beginning a fierce assault again by and by languished, when he saw her misused again as before. And so, much time being spent in vain, the seventh year, which was to the Jews a year of rest, came on, and then Iochanan intermitting the siege, Ptolemy first killing Iochanans mothers, escaped away to Zeno the Tyrant of Philadelphia.

Touching the Romans, although there was a league betwixt the Jews and them, wherein they were called their friends, and all Kings were strictly charged to take notice hereof, and not to molest them: yet they never had any benefit hereof, neither did the Kings of Syria any whit the more for that forbearance to fight against them, when their malice put them on to it. Besides the Celteberian war in Spain before spoken of, they had none other worth the speaking of, but only about the end of the reign of Demetrius the son of Seleucus, war began again the third time betwixt them and the Carthaginians. The occasion was for that King Massanissa had done them many wrongs, wherein he was born withal by the Romans, whereupon they prepared Arms and munition for their own defense. For this cause Ambassadors were sent over to Carthage to see what was done there, and when they had seen their warlike preparations by land and sea, they reproved the Carthaginian Senate therefore, and propounded terms of peace betwixt them and Massanissa the Numidian King, viz. that he should depart from that land about which their strife arose, leaving it unto them. To this the Senate would have agreed, but Gisco the son of Amilcar being then Magistrate, stirred up the people so against the Romans, that their Ambassadors were fain to save themselves by fleeing away, whereby the Roman Senate before distasting their doings, was the more provoked against them. Then the Carthaginians, the Roman Ambassadors being departed with Gulussa the son of Massanissa, went against Massanissa, but he, although about 90 years old, came in person against them and overcame them. The Roman Ambassadors returning acquainted the Senate with the preparation at Carthage, which Cato expounded to be a breach of the league, & sought therefore to stir up the Senate to war against them. But Scipio thought not this yet a sufficient cause of making War upon them, so it was agreed, that if they would burn their Navy and dismiss their Forces they should have peace. But this Decree stood not by reason of the Uricenses, a people not far from Carthage, yielding themselves by their Ambassadors to the Romans. For then the Senate resolved to war upon Carthage, till it should be destroyed. And although Ambassadors sent from Carthage to prevent this yielded to their demand of 300 pledges of Senators sons to do all things which they should command, and these were to the great grief of their kindred, and specially their mothers delivered at Lelibeum, and from thence carried to Rome, yet the War went on, and a great army was sent against Carthage, which was already much weakened by the late fight had with Massanissa, wherein perished after agreement through the revengfull mind Gulussa his son near 50000 men, setting upon them weary and unarmed, as they were returning homeward. Ambassadors were then sent again to know of the Consuls that led the army, what they would have the Carthaginians do more. They answered, that they must bring forth all their arms, and deliver them up. And this also being done, they were required in the last place to go all of them out of the City, leaving it to be razed down, and seek a new place of abode, and that at the least 80 furlongs from the Sea. This answer being given by Censorinus the Consul, the Ambassadors where so perplexed, that they lay down, desiring rather to die there, then to return with so sad an answer. And coming to themselves when they had pleaded what they could, they were caused to depart with this peremptory answer, that the Senates Decree was, that Carthage should be utterly demolisht. When this news came to the City it is unexpressable with what passions the Carthaginians were moved, some crying out upon the Ambassadors and raging against them, and some against the Senarours for delivering up their arms, and many mothers for their children now at Rome, ready to be murdered, and because all these things were done without knowing the conditions of peace. But after much passion and bitterness expressed, they shut up their gates, and fell to making of new arms with incredible celerity, all both men and women working with all their might, and the women cutting of their hair to make bowstrings. So that whilst the Romans let them alone thinking now to take the City when they listed, they both reconciled themselves to Asdrubal, hitherto keeping aloof with 20000 men ready armed, because he was by the Senate condemned to please the Romans that they might have his assistance, and armed a great many more. Insomuch that when the Romans came to assault the City, they came out ready armed to their admiration, and gave them hot battle, and from time to time defended their City so, that the time of the two Consuls, that then were expired without doing anymore hurt then they received. Wherefore Scipio even before that he could by the law by reason of his age, was made Consul and sent over with more forces. And he although most wise and valiant, so that the Romans had none other like him, could not in his year prevail, but having his Consulship prorogued, he brake into the City the next year, and so with much spoil and bloodshed wan it, and dismissed of such as yielded, at length 45000 of men and women, many of the rest desperalty setting fire upon the houses wherein they were, and burning themselves. Amongst whom Asdrubals wife was one, whose husband fled with an Olive branch to Scipio for mercy, but she disdaining this his cowardly heart, first killed her two children, and then cast herself in his sight into the fire. Thus Carthage, which had stood as a great Lady City of the World 700 years was in three years utterly ruinated, at the sight whereof even Scipio himself wept, presaging in his mind what Rome also might one day come unto. Now the thing most remarkable in Scipio, whereby he prevailed, when others could not, was his strict discipline towards his soldiers keeping them always in good order, without which he knew, that he could do no great matters. This famous conquest being made, Scipio first doing sacrifice to his God's, returned to Rome and triumphed, in which triumph Asdrubal was led and then kept in prison, the pledges although kept there, had great liberty. Then by the Senats decree Scipio went again and demolisht what remained of Carthage, and brought under tribute all such as had assisted Carthage, and gave much of their lands away to their friends the Uticenses, so that Country was reduced into the State of a Province, anno of the City of Rome built 607, annoque mundi 3820, towards the end of the High-priesthood of Jonathan. And Scipio, as his progenitour had now the name of Africanus given to him also. And the Senate strictly forbade anymore building and specially of a Burse in that place forever, cruelly threatening such as should break this decree. For the first building of this City, some attribute it to Zaro and Charchedo Tyrians 50 years before the destruction of Troy. some to Dido, Charchedoes daughter either in David's time or in Solomon's, and some in the time of Amasia.

To return again to the affairs of the King of Syria, and of the Jews. Antiochus the King ceased not pursuing Tryphon, till that he had driven him into his Castle Orthosiades, and there put him so hard to it, that he slue himself, as Strabo writeth, but Josephus saith, that he was slain in Apamea three years after he had begun to reign. Antiochus being freed thus from his Antagonist Tryphon, called to mind the overthrow given to his forces under Kendebeus, by Hircanus, having now also an opportunity against him through his treacherous kinsm • n Ptolemy before spoken of, who having slain his father Simeon, and other brethren sent for Forces to Antiochus, he went with a great Army against him and drave him into the City, that is, Jerusalem, in the fourth year of his reign, the first of Hircanus his high-priesthood, then he laid siege to the City, and built Towres against it, the Jews making often excursions upon his men, and killing many. The siege being continued, Hireanus feared lest scarcity should be in the City, and therefore he, put out all the weaker sort, but when Antiochus seeing this would not let them pass, but kept them up near the walls, the Feast of Tabernacles then approaching, he took them in again in pity, lest they should be famished without. Then he sent to Antiochus desiring a truce for seven days whilst they kept the Feast, to which he yielded, and sent him also sat bulls with their horns gilded for sacrifice, and boules both of silver and gold full of sweet spices, and made a feast for his Army, from which piety of his he attained the name of Antiochus Pius. Hircanus being much offended herewith, sent to treat with him about peace. To this he agreed upon condition, that he should give unto the King 500 Talents, leaving the Tribute of Joppe, and some other places before spoken of unto him, and receive a Garrison into the City, and so the Jews should live still according to their own Laws. To all these he consented, but only touching the Garrison, because they would not have people of other Nations to live amongst them. And so a peace was condluded, and the siege raised. And to raise this money, Hircanus opened the Monument of David, wherein he sound 3000 Talents. Then he hired also many Soldiers from foreign parts, and making a league with Antiochus, received him, and liberally entertained him in the City, and after he going to war against Arsace King of the Parthians, he with his forces followed him, but when they came to join battle, Antiochus was overcome and slain, and Demetrius, who before had been taken by Arsace, was, at Antiochus his coming set at liberty, and so he came again to his own Kingdom. But this last of Antiochus being overcome and slain by Arsace the Parthian King, Justinus setteth forth more fully, saying, that Antiochus carried with him 80000 men to this war going out with 30000 cooks also, and other necessary attendants, furnished with vessels of silver, and all the Army most richly set forth, for fear of which preparations, many places yielded unto him, and coming to fight with Phraates the King, for so he calleth him, he overcame him thrice, insomuch that the King of Parthia was now forced to retire within his own bounds. But Antiochus by wintering in those parts became so burthensome unto the people that they repented of their yielding to him, and consented together in favor of the Parthian to kill up his Soldiers where they lay billeted in several places, and when they were doing it, the news hereof coming to Antiochus, he hastened with the forces which he had to help his Soldiers that were nearest unto, him, but in the way, Phraates meeting him, slue him, fighting valiantly, even when his men ran away from him. Then the King of Parthia repented him; that he had dismissed Demetrius, he being moved to this only for fear of Antiochus, when he prevailed against him, that by this means he might be drawn home again to defend his own Kingdom. Wherefore Antiochus being slain, he sent after Demetrius to fetch him back again, but in vain, for he was now gotten into his own Kingdom of Syria again.

Hircanus, who had this name, as Josephus saith, for his killing of a great man so called, Eusebius for his expedition against, and overcoming a people called Hircan. So hearing that Antiochus was dead, returned with his Army into Syria, and after a siege of six months took Medaba, then the City of Samega, and Sicima, and Gerizim, where the Temple stood built by Manasseh in opposition to the Temple at Jerusalem, as was said before, and having now continued 200 years was again demolished. He subdued also the Edomites, and caused them to be circumcised, and hereupon they became one people with the Jews. As for Demetrius he had learned such cruelty of the Parthians whilst he lived in exile amongst them, and was so proud that he was hated of his own people, to whom he had returned, insomuch that they desired Ptolemy Physcon King of Egypt to send them one of the family of Seleucus, that might reign over them. He sent them therefore Alexander Zebina, who presently being made King fought against Demetrius, and overcame him. Then he fled to Ptolomais where his wife Cleopatra was, but being by her excluded he went to Tyrus, and there being taken by his enemies, after many abuses offered unto him, he was slain. So that although he would willingly have made War upon Hircanus, yet he could not, and by reason of Wars betwixt Alexander and him, the Jews were quiet, and then Hircanus took the opportunity to send Ambassadors to Rome to renew the League with the Romans, and to desire that by their authority, Ioppe, and other places which he had yielded to Antiochus whilst he lived, might now, he being dead, be restored again unto him. To all which the Senate assented, and gave out of their love to the Ambassadors, money where with to bear their charges homeward. Alexander being now King of Syria, the Parthian King sent home the corps of Antiochus in a coffin of silver, and he feigning great sorrow for his death, bestowed him honourably, and hereby he wan much love amongst the people, as being for this thought to be one of the Selucidan Family, when he was but a counterfeit. Alexander then entered into a league with Hireanus, but Antiochus Gryphus the son of Demetrius, raised forces against him, and overcame and slue him, and reigned in his stead. Of this Antiochus Gryphus Justin saith, that he had this name because his nose was great and hooked, after the manner of a Gryphins bill. And it was by the help of Ptolemy King of Egypt, that Antiochus so soon prevailed against Alexander: For when Alexander was King, he waxed proud, and despised Ptolemy by whom he was made. Therefore he having indignation at this, reconciled himself to Cleopatra the mother who had set up this son, and sent her aid, and gave his daughter to Antiochus to wife, whereby the people were drawn much unto him, and to leave Alexander. And Justin addeth, that Alexander wanting money to pay his Soldiers, caused a massy Image of Jupiter of gold to be taken down, and converted it to his own use. But his Soldiers detesting this Sacrilege revolted from him, then hefled by water, and by tempests was beaten to land, where robbers took him and delivered him to Gryphus, and so he was slain. He then would have fought against Hircanus, but he feared a brother of his own name, who he heard was coming against him, called Antiochus Sizicaenus, from the place where he had been brought up, and therefore was constrained to spend much time in fighting against him, whence it came to pass that Hircanus lived long in peace, and prospered greatly. Now whereas this Antiochus is said to be brother to Antiochus Physcon, Josephus saith, that it was by the mother Cleopatra, who had been wife both to Demetrius, and to his father Antiochus Soter, that died in Parthia. Now the time of the reign of Demetrius before his captivity was 12 years, and after his return four years, and Antiochus his brother between these times 12 years, Alexander that slue Demetrius, two years, Antiochus Gryphus, the son of Demetrius, who slue him 29 years whilst the two brethren were in war one against the other, Hircanus took his opportunity to besiege Samaria, building Walls and Forts about it, whereby those of the City were brought into a great straight for want of victuals, and therefore they sent to Antiochus Sizicenus to come and raise the siege, which he attempted to do, but was overcome and put to flight by Antigonus and Aristobulus the two sons of Hircanus, whom he had set over the siege. Then the siege continuing they sent to Antiochus again, who came, but after the manner of a robber spoiling Hircanus his fields, that by this means he might draw his forces from Samaria. But of his men many being, as they ranged about, slain by the Jews, he returned to Tripolis, committing this War to two Captains Calimander and Epicrates. Of these then one Calimander being so hardy as to fight a battle with the Jews was soon slain, and the other turning treacherous to his master for a bribe betrayed Scithopolis to Hircanus. Hircanus then continuing the siege in the space of one year wan Samaria, and laid it even with the ground, and having lived in great glory 31 years High-priest and Prince he died, leaving the Principality to Aristobulus his son. He was also famous for revelations when he was in the Temple one time, the Lord speaking unto him, and telling him of the victory which he had given to his sons against Antiochus, whereof when he coming out had spoken to the people, news was presently brought to the City. And he foretold the short continuance of those his two sons in this life, which fell out accordingly. Yet being so worthy he was not esteemed amongst the Pharisees, a kind of Sect amongst the Jews most accounted of by the common people, insomuch that leaving them, after they had been long favored by him, he went to the Sadducees, the difference between which two Sects was, that the Pharisee held, and did many things not commanded in the Word of God, but the Sadducee that it was not lawful to hold or do so, but only what was prescribed in the Word. Touching Antiochus Gryphin, Justin speaking more fully then Josephus saith, that after he had subdued Alexander, his mosher Cleopatra, who made account, that he should but reign under her, now fearing that her power should be diminished, prepared a poisoned cup for him at his return home from exercising: this he having some notice of, when she offered it unto him, desired her as in a filial respect to drink first, she refusing he urged her, and told her, what he heard of the poison in it, she denying it to be so, he would not be herewith satisfied, unless she drunk it, and so pressed her to it for the clearing of herself, that she drank and so died. A just reward, saith he, for her wickedness, because she had slain her own husband before, and poisoned another of her sons, and now would have poisoned this. Gryphus being thus delivered from his enemies reigned in peace eight years, not once attempting anything against Hircanus, because his power was great, and he was also a confederate of the Romans. But then he endeavoring to take away Sizicenus by poison, which was timely discovered unto him, he fleeing to Sizicum, gathered forces and fought against him, and expelled him out of his Kingdom, saith Appianus. The manner was thus. Ptolemy Physcon, or Energetes King of Egypt dying, left his Kingdom to the will of his Wife to be given to whether of her sons she would, when he had reigned 29 years, the name of the eldest being Latharus, of the younger Alexander. Now her love was most to Alexander, but by the people she was compelled to make the eldest King, yet before she would do it, she compelled him to put away his Wife Cleopatra, and to marry her sister Seleuce, Cleopatra being put away went into Syria, and married Antiochus Sizicenus daughter bringing to him an army with her, wherewith he might invade his brothers kingdom, who yet had married another sister of hers. But he fought with ill success against his brother Gryphus, for he was overcome and made to flee to Antiochia. Gryphus following him besieged the City, till he had taken it. But Antiochus Sizicenus escaped out of it and fled, his Wife Seleuce being left behind. Her sister Gryphina the wife of Gryphus moved her husband to have her secured, but he speaking against cruelty showing to her, a woman and a sister & now fled to Sanctuary, she was the more stiffly bent to execute her, and sent those that first cut off her hands, and then slue her there. But this cruelty went not long unrevenged, for Sizicenus gathered new forces fought again with Gryphus and overcame him, then he took Gryphus his wife and slue her, and reigned 18 years after which he was yet again expel'd from the kingdom by Gryphus, and he reigned again till that he had made up from the beginning of his first reign 29 years. In the time of these kings, about the 18 year Hircanus dying, his son Aristobulus took the government upon him, & was the first King of the Jews after their return from captivity, but he proved a very tyrant, imprisoning his mother & brethren, all but Antigonas, where she was famished to death because according to the appointment of his father she would have some hand in the government. Neither did hespare his brother Antigonus long, although for his love towards him, he made him at the first consort of his kingdom: for he being sick Antigonus went forth to war, and the victory being gotten, returned gloriously home & so went up to the the Temple. Then Aristobulus was by some informed of it, who said, that he had best look to him, or else he would soon aspire to the Kingdom. The King was not at the first moved at it, as thinking it false, but being urged with it he gave regard to it so far, that he appointed armed men to stand in a certain place secretly, by which Antigonus was to pass to come unto him, commanding them if he came armed to slay him, if not to set him pass. Now Salome the Queen & some others, treacherously told him that the King was desirous to see him in his arms, because he had heard of the excellency of his Armor, wherefore he went in his Arms and was slain, but the King soon after was so stricken with grief therefore that his sickness increased more and more, and he vomited blood, which his servant carrying out, by chance spilled in the place where Antigonus had been slain. At the sight of this many seeing it, gave a shout, which the King hearing would needs know the cause, and being told, he was yet more pricked in his conscience, as taking it to happen by a divine providence, for his murthering his brother and mother, and so grievously crying out upon his own bloody facts, he yielded up the ghost, when he had reigned only one year. But in his time the Empire of the Jews was much enlarged, by the adding of a great part of Ituraea unto it, the people for fear of banishment being by him compelled to be circumcised, and so to be as one people with the Jews. Aristobulus being dead, Salome his wife let his three brethren out of prison, and made the elder of them Alexander King, concerning whom it had been before revealed by God unto Hircanus his father that he should reign, whereat he was nothing well pleased, because Aristobulus and Antigonus best. He being King, slue one of his brethren that aspired after the Kingdom, and the other being content to live quietly in a private estate, he loved well, and after his entering upon the Kingdom, he reigned 27 years. But all his time was full of trouble, and now that from High-priests the Jews governors were turned into Kings, they much degenerated from the virtues of their Ancestors, and so their times were full of bloodshed and many miseries. Thus in the short time of Aristobulus, how it was hath been already shown, and now touching Alexander it will much more appear, Ptolomais and Gaza only remained of Maritim Towns that refused to obey the Jews. He therefore besieged Ptolomais, the Citizens having no hope of help from the Kings of Syria, in whose dominion they were, sent to Ptolemy Lathurus King of Egypt for aid. Now this Ptolemy was the son of Ptolemy Philometors son, that is, of Ptolemy Energetes, made King by his mother Cleopatra against her will, as I have shown a little before, compelling him first to put away his wife, and to marry her sister Salome when he was King, she not being content to reign together with him, because she loved her younger son Alex. better, seeing also that he had two sons by Salome, she took her from him, and banishing him, made her son Alex. King. But Lathurus sled into Cyprus and lived long there as King. To him therefore now the Ptolomaidans sent for aid, & he with an army of 30000 men, came to raise the siege. But before he came the men of Ptolomais repented that they sent for him, because thus they must necessarily be subject unto him, if he prevailed against the Jews, & then should come also into the danger of Cleopatra Q. of Egypt who would be offended at the increase of his Dominion, seeing she attempted to expel him out of the kingdom of Cyprus before, wherefor they excluded his Ambassadors that came before out of their City, where at the K. was greatly perplexed. But the Gazeans seeking also to him for 〈◊〉 against the Jews, he went on▪ which Alexander hearing, immediately raised his siege, and departed home to Jerusalem, and sent secretly to Cleopatra of Egypt to stir her up to come against her son Lathurus. Yet at the same time he seigned a desire of making friendship with Lathurus, and promised him 400 talents to take and cut off Zoilus the Tyrant of Gaza, then he did in part, for he took Zotlus, but hearing of Alexanders underhand dealing he was so moved, that leaving part of his Army before Ptolomais, he hastened with the other part to waste the Region of Judea, Alexander likewise knowing this, gathered together an Army of 50000, some say 80000, to go out to meet him. But such haste did Lathurus make, that he came suddenly to Asochim of Samaria on the Sabbath day, and took and pillaged it, and carried away from thence 10000 Captains, then going on, he met Alexander with his forces near the River Jordan, & pitched his Tents on the one side of the River, and Alexander was on the other. But next day Lathurus his Forces passed over the River, Alexander permitting them quietly so to do, as making no doubt, by reason of his great number, but that it would turn to his advantage, seeing the River being behind them, they could not flee away. But when they had joined battle, although they fought stoutly and with equal success on both sides for a time, yet at length one wing of the Jewish army was made to yield and flee, and the rest seeing this fled also. Then the enemies pursued and slue of them, till their hands were weary, and their swords blunted with killing, insomuch that there fell of the Jews that day 30000 men. Then Lathurus wasted the Jews Country far and wide, and killing up women and children where he came, he caused some of them to be cut in pieces, and to be boiled in pots and cauldrons, that such as should come and see it, might think that his army fed upon man's flesh, and fear him the more. Cleopatra his mother hearing of the increase of his power, thought it necessary with speed to go against him, and for this end making great preparation both by land and sea, sent her forces out unto Ptolomais, under two Jewish Captains, Chelcias and Ananias. Lathurus hearing of this, thought it now a fit time for him to recover his Kingdom of Egypt, whilst it was empty of military forces. But coming thither he prevailed nothing, for the Queen sent a Captain with a great power after him, and by him he was again expelled out of Egypt. Alexander the King of the Jews, in the mean season came to Cleopatra, and was honourably received by her, and although in distress, so that she might have made a prey of his Country, and was by some moved to it, yet by the persuasion of her Jewish Captain, she did not, but he found favor with her, and having made a league with him, she dismissed him, and Lathurus being returned into Cyprus she returned into Egypt. Alexander being thus delivered from the fear of Lathurus, makes war in Coelosyria, and after ten months siege takes Gadata, and then Amathunte, and from thence passing to Gaza he besieged it, and with much loss of his men took it, because the Citizens were desperate, and would rather die then come under his power, wherefore many of them fired their houses and themselves together. After this, Alexander returning to Jerusalem, when the Feast of Tabernacles was kept, there was an insurrection made of the Jews, his own subjects, against him, who railed upon him as unworthy for his wickedness to sacrifice, and offered other indignities to him, whereat he being provoked, fell upon them with his men of war, and slue 6000 of them. After this he had war with the Arabians, but the Arabian King coming against him, he was drawn by treachery into a dangerous place, & so hardly escaped with his life. Returning to Jerusalem again, he had wars at home with his own people six years together, hiring foreigners to serve him, and in these wars, at divers times, he slue 50000 of them. Yet even then, he speaking to them of reconciliation, they were the more incensed against him, he asking what they would have him do, they said, to kill himself. Then they sent to Demetrius Eucetus, to come and aid them against him, and he coming with a great power, fought with Alexander, who had besides 20000 Jews, 6000 mercenary soldiers in his Army, against 40000 foot, and 3000 horse in the Army of Demetrius. After a long and bloody fight, Demetrius got the victory, and all the mercenaries of Alexanders Army were slain, and many of the Army of Demetrius also. Alexander then fled to the Mountains and six thousand Jews more reformed to him in pity, which Demetrius seeing left the Country. Then the Jews alone warred against him, but he always put them to the worst, killing many of them. And at Bethoma, to which many of the greatest of them fled, he nailed 800 to gallonses, causing their wives and children to be slain before their faces, whilst they yet lived in revenge of their obstinate rebellions. After this he having run through many hazards of War and subdued many places, fell into a quartan through intemperature, and at three years end died. But before his death his Queen being grieved to think, what should become of her and her children, seeing he was so much hated of the Jews, he counseled her to offer to the Pharisees to do whatsoever they would have her, showing herself sorrowful, that her husband had been so harsh towards them: and to deliver his dead body to them, if they would, to be revenged upon it. Now such was the power of this Sect with the people, that when the Queen did thus, they were won so unto her, that they magnified Alexanders exployts amongst the people, and praised him for a just King, and hereby the people were sostirred up, that they greatly lamenting for the loss of him bestowed a most honorable burial upon him. Queen Alexandra then was permitted to reign, although she had two sons, Hircanus and Aristobulus. The one of these, Hircanus being unfit for war, she made High priest, intending the Kingdom haply to the other after her decease. But though she were Queen, the Pharisees bare all the sway, and the Rites abrogated by Hircanus Alexanders father, were confirmed again as traditions of the Elders. And to that height of authority the Pharisees grew, that they questioned all those, that had given the King counsel to exercise such cruelty against the 800 before spoken of, and began to cut them off, sometime one, and sometime another. This they that survived seeing, being men of the best sort joined with Aristobulus her son, and went to the Court, and expostulated with the Queen about it, showing her, how indign a thing it was, that her husbands best friends should now be permitted to the will of their enemies to be by them killed up like beasts. Wherefore they desired either leave to depart and live where they could, or else in some of her Castles. She consented to this last, that they should have all her Castles but three, where her treasures lay, Hircanta, Alexandrinum, and Macharnutis. The Queen after this falling sick, Aristobulus taketh his opportunity to strengthen himself to the getting of the Kingdom, and therefore went from the Court only with one servant to one of the Castles, where he was willingly received, and it was yielded unto him, and after it many Castles more to the number of 22. Then he endeavoring to gather an army, men flocked unto him in great numbers. This stirred up Hircanus and the Elders to resort speedily to the Queen, but she being now ready to die, willed them with her arms and wealth provided in abundance to take the best course they could, and so died being seventy three years old, and having reigned nine years, and that in great wisdom and justice she began anno 3890, and died 3899.

But before I proceed further in the Jewish History, I will fetch up that of the Syrian Kings. Antiochus Gryphus, as was said before, continued 29 years after his first beginning to reign, and then was slain by the treachery of Heracleen, and Selencus his son succeeded him, and fighting with his Uncle. Sizicenus slue him. Then Antiochus Eusebes, the son of Sizicenus came to Aradum, and took the Crown upon him, and he fighting with Seleucus expelled him out of Syria, who fled then to Cylicia, and coming to the Mopseats, where he was received as King, when he exacted tribute of them, he was burnt by them in his Palace together with his friends. Then the brother of Seleucus called Antiochus gathered forces against Eusebes, but being overcome he lost his life and army. Then Philip, a brother of his reigned over part of Syria, and Ptolemy Lathurus made another brother called Demetrius Eucetus King in Damascus. Both these joining against Eusebes, he for a time withstood them stoutly, being called to the aid of Laodices Queen of the Galadens, against the Parthians, he was slain fighting stoutly in the midst of his enemies. And for the Kingdom of Syria was between two brothers, Philip and Demetrius. And they living also in dissent on, the Syrians grew weary of them, and therefore offered the Kingdom to Tygranes King of Armenia, who came and took it, ten years after the decease of Gryphus, and reigned 18 years, that is, till three years after the death of Alexandra.

Touching the Romans affairs, they having utterly subdued Carthage, had wars with the Numidians a long time in the days of Jugurtha the son of Massanissa, but at length the Numidians were subdued, and Jugurtha taken prisoner, and carried to Rome by C. Marius Consul, for which he triumphed, and this was about the latter end of the reign of Hircanus, or rather of his Principality. But immediately another dangerous War arose against them, The Cymbrians and many other people's of the French and Germans, conspired together to rume the Roman State by a just judgment, as Orosius saith, because Coepto the Pro-Consul had not long before taken Toulouse, and robbed the Temples thereof many millions of gold. This conspiracy being heard, a great army was sent against them, under the leading of C. Manilius Consul, and Coepio Pro-Consul. But they being at variance between themselves, the enemies came upon them, and overthrew both their Armies, killing of the Romans 80000, and of the Colonyes 40000, there being only ten men left alive to carry the heavy tidings of this great overthrow. This news coming to Rome, they were filled with great grief and fear, Coepio was condemned as the cause, and C. Marius had this Province, and a new Army allotted unto him, to go against the said Cymbrians. &c. Now it happened so. that these Barbarians did not prosecute their victory by coming against Rome, which if they had done, the foundation of that Empire would have been shaken, but they went into Celtiberia in Spain, first to subdue that Province, and in the mean season Marius had liberty both to gather together an army, and to train them up in good Military Discipline, that they might be the fitter for service. He being therefore by this means well prepared, the enemies dividing themselves into two companies, approached with one company to his Tents. But he contained his Soldiers within their trench, thinking by this means both to make his men the more desirous to fight, and the hideous clamours of the enemies the less terrible by their being some time accustomed unto them. The enemies seeing this, imputed it to cowardice, and therefore presumed to pass the Alps by them to go towards Rome willing them in mockage, if they would anything to their wives to send by them. But Marius now took his time to come forth and follow them, whereupon a bloody battle ensued, the Cymbrians falling before the Romans in great abundance, and many Teutonians. But this victory being obtained, Marius was not yet secure, for innumerable enemies still remained, although the first Army being overthrown, their women, when they fled came in great numbers with swords and spears to the fight, being enraged against the men as betrayers of them, and against the Romans as their enemies, so that many of them being mingled amongst the armed bands, fell also. Marius therefore gave order that Marcellus should go up to an hill near to them with 3000 men, and he having refreshed his men continued with them in the Plain. Marcellus with his men being seen by the Teutons, they presently made towards him with all their power, not having the patience to stay till he should come to a fit place to fight in: but they smarted for their haste, Marcellus with his men having the advantage of the hill, but they upon the side hill, not being able to stand, were beaten down and slain to the number of 100000, according to some 150000, to others 200000, in so much that as Plutarch saith, the Massilians made fences about their Vineyards with their bones, and their King Teutoborchus a mighty man, was taken and carried to Rome to be shown in triumph. But yet neither was here an end of this War, for Boerix the King of the Cymbrians, came with a great Army against Marius and Catulus, but with as ill success as the former, for he also lost above 100000 men, especially by the virtue of Catulus and his Army, and so Italy was again delivered from all fear of these enemies, and Marius went away with exceeding great glory, so that they offered drink offerings to the gods and to Marius, and he was called the second founder of Rome, and was the sixth time made Consul.

After this for some years the Roman State being quiet, at length civil Wars were made betwixt the Citizens and the Italians, whose chief men having long counted themselves Romans, and dwelt in the City, whereby they were capable of the like honor with Citizens born, were by a public Edict of the Senate commanded to depart into their own Countries. But they being grieved at this, labored long to have it reversed, and to have as many Knights of the Country made Senators as were in Rome, viz. 300, and when they could not prevail, they departed from the City, and combined together to revolt from the Romans. Forces were then prepared on both sides 100000 men, the Romans committing theirs to both their Consuls, and certain Legates whom they joined with them. The Italians likewise erecting a Senate of 500 men at Corsinium, made two Consuls after the Roman manner, joining unto them 12 Emperors, half of which should govern over one part of Italy, and the other half over another. And when they came to fight, the Italians greatly prevailed at the first, & many great men of the Romans were slain. But Sylla who was one joined to the Consul Caesar, fought prosperously in one part of Italy, and Pompey, who was a Legate joined to the Consul Rutilius in another, slaying many of the Italians, and taking divers Towns and Cities. But at the same time the Romans had War with Mithridates in Asia also, who prevailed greatly against them, as being a King of very great power, and destroyed of them in divers parts at one time 150000 by writing his letters secretly to instigate his people to this Massacre, promising to the servant killing his Master freedom, and to debtors killing their creditors remission of half their debts.

But the Italic War, after the taking of so many places soon lauguished, after that it had continued four years: and Sylla returning to Rome after his great victories was made Consul, and unto him Pompey was adjoined. Then Asia was allotted to Sylla to go against Mithridates, but before he went a quarrel arose betwixt him and Marius, whereupon he came with his forces against Rome, and having taken Marius sent him to prison, and after him one to kill him, whose life he had before saved in the Cymbrian War. But he coming to the prison where he saw Marius, threw down his sword and ran away, at this, they that were about him were so moved that they took him out of prison, and by ship conveyed him into Africa, being now 70 years old, where he led a poor life many days. Thus he who had been honored with the Consulship six times, was at length brought very low, that all may learn the vanity of worldly wealth and honor, and not be so affected with them. Sylla then set forth against Mithridates, and having subdued Athens and other places in Greece by the way, at length Mithridates came against him with 120000 men, but he not having above the third part of this number refused to fight, till that having the advantage of a narrow passage he suddenly set upon him, when he little expected it, and overcame him, killing 100000 of his Army, In the interim Cynna being made Consul at Rome in favor of Marius opposed himself against those, who to appease the tumults in Italy, had consented to receive men of other Cities as Romans. Wherefore against him Octavius was made Consul, whereupon he departed out of the City, and having gathered an army, returned and besieged Rome, Marius also hearing it, being now come from his banishment, and many flocking unto him. By this means Rome was soon brought to such a straight by famine, that Cynna was sued unto for peace. But he and Marius entered the City, killed Octavius and many of the Senators and others, and some of great command to escape their hands killed themselves. Cynna then and Marius made themselves Consuls, but Marius died within 17 days after, exercising much cruelty to his very death, and the valiant Flaccus was by Cynna made Consul, but he being sent to the Mithridatean War was sooon slain, and then Sylla took Carbo to him for his fellow Consul. Sylla in the mean season was sought unto by some Senators which were fled unto him, to return and rescue the City ready to perish, but he prosecuting his Wars against Mithridates prepared to another Battle, unto which seeing his men unwilling, he leapt down from his horse, and laying hold of an Ensign he went between both the Armies, his guard following him, and cried out, if any shall ask you (ô ye Romans) where ye lett your Emperor, say, fighting at Orchomenon. His Captains then being moved at this, hastened with their bands to the battle, and overcame and killed of the enemies 15000, whereby Mithridates was so troubled, that he sought peace with Sylla, and upon some conditions obtained it, and the rather because Sylla was now proclaimed an enemy to the Roman State, and could expect no more aid from thence. Besides, there was an Army not far off under the leading of Fimbria, who had been sent forth by Cynna with Flaccus the Consul, as his assistant, wherewith he saw that he must shortly encounter. Having therefore concluded a peace with Mithridates King of Pontus, one condition being that he should from thenceforth contain himself within his own Kingdom, he went against Fimbria, & so soon as he came near unto him, the Soldiers of Fimbria in great multitudes revolted unto him, whereupon Fimbria being full of fear, sent to desire the speech of Sylla, but he had sent a servant secretly before to kill him, who being discovered and taken confessed it, therefore Sylla denied to go, and sent only another to offer him one condition, whereupon he should be saved, viz. if leaving his Army he would depart out of Asia, whereof he was Pro-Consul. Fimbria hearing this said, he knew a better way, and so he went to Pergamos, and in the Temple of Esculapius, thrust his sword into his own bowels, but his wound not being mortal, his servant at his entreaty dispatched him, and then slue himself. This being done, all his Army remaining went to Sylla. Then he settled the matters of Asia, and having exacted in all Asia 20000 talents, he went with his Army towards Italy. His coming being heard of at Rome, the Senate and City were much troubled. But Cynna and Carbo the Consuls went forth to gather up Soldiers and money to go and meet with him. But Cynna in a mutiny of the Soldiers by the way was slain, and so Carbo returned to Rome, continuing Consul alone that year: In this time Metellus a Pro-Consul came with his forces to Sylla, and Cn. Pompeius, called afterwards the great, and Cethegus, who had formerly been his great enemy, and were all received by him at Brindisi, to which place he was come with 40000 men.

Narbonus and Scipio being then made Consuls, went out with great Armies against Sylla, and first Narbonus fought unhappily against him, there falling of his men 6000, and 7000 taken, and of Sylla his Army but 70. Then Scipio preparing to come on, his Soldiers being more desirous of peace, after some communication had with the Syllians, went all away from him to Sylla, who being left in a manner alone, was permitted by Sylla to return quietly to Rome. Thus the hearts of many by his humanity were won unto Sylla, and because he was careful as he passed, that no hurt should be done to the people, insomuch that Narbo said of him, that he had to deal with a Lyon and a Fox, conjoined together in him, The next year Narboes Consulship being continued, another C. Marius, being but 20 years old was adjoined unto him, but Narbo after many battles, his souldrers revolting daily from him to Sylla, whereby he gathered that none would be constant to him, sent first to Rome to kill such as favored Sylla, and then after such cruelty shown to others, killed himself. Marius likewise having fought unhappily against Metellus, and seeking to escape secretly was slain, and his head brought to Sylla, upbrayding him by this, that he would take upon him the government of the ship, before that he had acted any of the Mariners part. Then Sylla easily took the City, and exercised most horrible cruelty, in proscribing 40 Senators at once, and above 1000 Knights and principal men, even all that he heard took part with Narbo or Marius, so that who so would might kill them, and he that killed one was promised two talents, and a reward was promised to him that discovered any of them, and such as hid them were threatened with death. Sylla having now all at his will, would be made Dictatour, and was, and reigned most tyrannically, yet to retain the old form, he caused also two Consuls to be chosen, and replenished the Senate with such as he thought good, and then triumphed for his victory over Mithridates. Pompey also who pursued Scipio at his appointment into Africa, and slue him, and got other victories, being but 24 or 26 years old, returning triumphed also, though at the first demand denied it by Sylla.

After all this Sylla having been Dictatour three years, and now giving leave to choose new Consuls, and he being chosen by the people, to flatter with him, he refused and set up two others, Servilius and Claudius, and then publicly deposed his Dictatorship to the admiration of all men. Because that he having been the death of so many, might now being divested of his authority fear hard measure at some of their friends hands, there having perished above 100000 men of the adverse faction, 90 Senators, 15 Consuls, 2600 Knights, by his means. Yet he fearing nothing, as having 150000 in divers parts, that had been employed in his wars, and enriched by him, went to his Cumana, and there led a private life, recreating himself with hunting and hawking. But he continued not thus any longer then to the year following. He dedicated the tenth part of his estate to Hercules, and then made a great feast for many days, in such excessive manner, that much meat which could not be eaten, was cast into the river, and the wine then drunk, was 40 years old. In the midst of these days, his wife Metella died, and he married the daughter of Hortensius, who bare him a son after his death, called Posthumius. Sylla then giving himself to all manner of pleasure, having divers Musicians and Jesters about him, with whom heset up drinking in the night, fell into a disease, through which he swarmed with lice, which increased faster then they could be taken away, till at length he vomiting much blood, gave up the ghost as he was well worthy, for having been the author of so much cruelty and bloodshed, the Devil also appeared unto him for his greater terror, and yet this man for his admirable success in all things attempted by him, assumed to himself the name of Felix, as accounting himself happy therefore. And indeed so he was, as much as this world could make him happy, as having been always successful to this 60 year of his age, wherein he died. And after his death although Lepidus then Consul withstood it, he was by his friends buried after the Roman manner in Martius field, where none but Kings used to be buried in great pomp. For he was carried out in a chest of gold, many Trumpeters sounding before him, and many Minstrels placed here and there amongst the people, singing mournful songs as they went, and thus he was carried through Italy to Rome, where the Senators, and great multitudes of others met him, and above 1000 crowns of gold were presented to be carried before him, and above 200 pounds of sweet spices were brought by women to burn with him, and Serjeants, as when he was Dictatour, went before him, and finally in Martius field, he was in a short time burnt to ashes, when the most eloquent man in the City had first made an Oration in his praise.

In their return from his funeral, Lepidus then Consul being of the Marian faction spake against this pompous funeral of an enemy of the Roman State, and in praise of it spake Catulus the other Consul, and Lepidus also threatened to release those whom Sylla had proscribed, and to take away the possessions in Italy given by Sylla to his men, and to restore them to their former owners. But Catulus opposed him, the Senate feared it might come to a civil War, and therefore bound them both from it by oath. Lepidus yet not fearing this gathered an army abroad, and came against this City, Catulus defended it, and overcoming Lepidus put him to flight, and soon after he died of a consumption, so they never prosper that break their oaths. Lepidus being dead, Porpenna with part of his army went to Sertorius a great Commander in Spain to join with him, as being both of the same faction, against whom therefore Metellus a Syllanian was formerly sent. But now Pompey was desirous of that Province, and having by much importunity obtained it of Catulus, he hastened thither, and at the first fighting with Sertorius he was put to flight and lost many of his men, and after this, though at the first he had the better of it, yet hastening the second time to the fight without Metellus his assistance he lost many of his men and had lost more, but that Metellus haply came in the instant, and then Sertorius retired. Whereby we may see, how ambitious men, whilst they seek all the glory alone are in danger to lose all. For this made Pompey to hasten alone to this battle, that Metellus being a coward might not share with him in the honor of the victory. But having renewed his army, he came on again, and put Metellus in such hazard, that he retired into France, and Pompey wanting pay for his men towards Italy, but sending before to Rome for a supply of money. This though slowly, was granted, and now also Sertorious began to decline, through the revolt of many soldiers from him who went away to Metellus, as being discontented, that he should prefer the Celieberians to be his Guard rather then them, his own countrymen. Thus Appianus, but Plutarch imputes it to the pride of Perpenna, his fellow, everywhere detracting from him. Yet Sertorious having the Celteberians fast to him for his great valor fought again against Pompey and prevailed. But he growing more distrustful and cruel by reason of their revolt was much hated by those that followed him, and then Perpernna with ten more conspired to kill him, which was accordingly done at a feast, to which he was by Perpenna invited. But when he was slain, their hatred towards him was turned into pity and against Perpenna, whereby he was in great danger, but by fair speeches and great gifts he escaped, yet that murderer went not long unrevenged: for fighting with Pompey, within a few days after he was overcome, and fleeing and hiding himself, taken, and by the command of Pompey slain before that he was brought into his presence, although he desired first to be brought, because he had sundry conspiracies in Rome to reveal unto him. But Pompey thinking, that thus an occasion might be given of new stirs, wisely refused to hear him, and prevented this by cutting him off. Perpenna being dead, some of his men fled into divers places and were slain, and some submitted to Pompey and the Celteberians likewise, & thus after a War of 10 years peace again followed in Spain. But before the end of this War, another began in Italy by one Spartacus, called bellum gladiatorum: and a third War by Mithridates King of Pontus. For Spartacus with divers other Frenchmen to the number of 70 or 80 being Sword-players, & held as Captives since the Wars of France conspired together to go out of the City, and to get arms and fight for their liberty, which they did with such success, that in short times their numbers increased to 7000, and afterwards to 100000, and encountering the forces sent against them, they grew formidable to Rome itself. Insomuch that none durst take upon him to be Pretour, till that Crassus a noble and rich man offering himself made them all glad. He therefore with six Legions went out of the City in the third year of this War, and two Legions remaining of them, who had often fled under other Commanders before, began first to proceed severely against them, punishing every tenth man with death. Then setting forth to this War he fought at the first unhappily, for his men fled before their enemies, but he having exercised the like severity upon 500 of them, who began first to flee, by killing every tenth man, brought on his army again and prevailed, Spartacus fighting most valiantly in this battle being slain, and all his forces dispersed the fourth year after this War begun. Pompey then returning from Spain triumphed and was made Consul, and Crassus together with him, his consent being first obtained. And yet after they were Consuls, they kept both their armies on foot to the terror of the City, fearing, suffering by their differences. But being persuaded they shaked hands and disbanded. And Crassus to show his greatness made a feast to the Romons, preparing 10000 tables, and gave all the City bread corn for three months, when there were in Rome 450000 persons.

To return now to Mithridates, he having had peace granted him by Sylla, would happily have continued quiet, but that Sertorius sent from Spain unto him, as desirous to stir up against the Roman State all the trouble that he could, one Marius to certify him of the civil Wars in Italy, and of his own power in Spain, who would be a friend unto him in anything that he should desire, and to stir him up to take this opportunity to invade the Romans Dominions in those parts. Wherefore, the King of Bythinia being lately dead without children, and by his last Testament, giving his Kingdom to the Romans, Mithridates with a great army first invaded Bythinia, which being weakly defended by Catta, came in a great part into his hands. But Lucullus being sent from Rome to this War according to his own desire, first beat Mithridates from thence: and afterwards he warring against Cizicum, a City which stuck fast to the Romans, he so cut off his provision, that he compelled him to raise his siege, and in his return took his opportunity to cut off many thousands of his army so that he fled into parts farther off, having lost almost all his Army, being at the first 300000, but the Romans Army not much above 30000, then he gathered a new power of 40000, besides many horsemen: but sending out his horsemen to take away all provision, that Lucullus might through want be brought to the like straight that he had been before Cizicum, they were encountered by the Roman horsemen, and taken at such an advantage, that they were almost all slain, so that Mithridates being discouraged hereby fled, and all his Army without regard to any Leaders, and so he came to Tigranes King of Armenta, a King now of many Kingdoms, since the accession of Syria to his dominions and his son in law, yet so proud was he, that hearing of his coming, he only sent to direct him to a strong place within his Dominions, and not to his Court. But that was only whilst he was busy in warring in another place. For returning to Armenia, Mithridates came unto him. Then Appius Claudites was sent Ambassador to Tigranes by Lucullus to demand Mithridates, to whom he coming, after long travel and delay, by reason of the Kings absence, required him to deliver Mithridates to be carried to Lucullus, but he denied, saying, that if Lucullus should come for him he would defend him. With this answer Appius returned, telling of the great State of Tigranes, as having many Kings subject to him and four continually to attend him, wherefore he was offended at Lucullus his letters written to him without the style of King of Kings. Lucullus in this interim took the Cities and Towns of Mithridates, and with 11000 men took his journey towards Armenia. Tigranes preparing for him, gathered an Army of 250000 foot, and 50000 horse, insomuch that when Lucullus his Army came in sight, he asked whether they were Ambassadors, and being told that it was the Roman Army, he said that they were too many indeed to be Ambassadors, but too few for an Army. Then he wished that all the Roman Captains had been there, that he might have overcome them all together, so confident was he of the victory, by reason of his surpassing great forces. But Lucullus coming to join battle with him, handled the matter so politically, that all his great army was soon routed, and he made to flee, and to cast away his Crown and Royal Ensigns, from him that he might not be known. For having set his horsemen to begin the battle upon the face of the enemy, he fetching a compass with his foot came upon their backs, and soon routed the whole Army, killing about 100000 men, and losing only five of his men, and 100 wounded. The King then fleeing, Lucullus did forbear to pursue far, choosing rather to return and take the chief City of Tigranes; called Tigranoserta, which he did, and found 8000 talents therein. Thence moving to other great places, he fought against and overcame them. But the two Kings in the mean season gathered a new Army, which was committed to the leading of Mithridates, & then Lucullus his Soldiers mutining against him & many falling from him to a new Commander, sent from Rome to take his place, began to decline, and having sometimes fought unhappily, was left at length almost alone. And now a new war began, called the Py ••• icall war, by means of certain Pirates at the first sent out by Mithridates to take what prizes they could by sea from the Romans, which in the time of these troubles grew into great numbers, and became formidable to all that travelled by Sea and Maritim Towns. The Senate therefore being much perplexed at the hearing of it, thought of sending out a power against them, whose reandevouze was in Silicia. And upon whom should the whole state now pitch, but upon Pompey, as being grown most famous of all others. But the Senate fearing lest he being set up, should become another Sylla, yet the people consenting about him, because he stood for the restoring of the Tribunes, whom Sylla had put down, he had full power given him for three years, to gather what forces he would, and to rule both by sea and land, wherefore he prepared many ships, and made many Captains, committing several parts unto them, and power as Emperors in those parts, reserving to himself a power over them all, to overlook them, & to be ready to help any of them, as most need should require. By this means the Pirates being in dangered in every place at once, soon submitted themselves to Pompey, and so this war with little sighting, was ended in little more then 3 months, and the Pirates had the mercy to be spared their lives, but were sent to live in places most remote and unpleasant.

Then Pompey passed over into Asia to the Mithridatean war, although the Senate was very unwilling, partly for the reason before going, and partly because Marcius his year, who was sent last thither, was not yet ended. Pomp • y meeting with Lucullus in Galathia, after some expostulation between them took away all his men, but only 1600, whom he knew to be discontented with him: then he went against Mithridates, who retired with his forces into the inner part of the kingdom, and Pompey followed, commanding provision to be brought after him, lest his army should want, and by a long trench kept Mithridates his Army from coming abroad for provision, so that they were almost starved. Therefore he went away in the night through reckie places to a most strong hold, but even there he was overcome and his men slain, and he by sleeing escaped, and travelled into all parts for the renewing of his Army, but could never gather together any power more. Tigranes also his son in law rejected him, & forbad him coming into Armenus, because he thought him to be author of his sons rebellion against him, who was now fled for aid to Phraates King of Scythia, but Phraates persuaded him to go to Pompey, which he did, and Tigranes hearing it, went himself also, trusting to the equity of Pompey, for which he was grown famous. Comming near by Serjeants, that were sent out to meet him, he was bidden to alight from his horse, and did so, and delivered his sword unto them, and came and cast his Crown down at Pompey's feet: but he arising took him by the hand, and made him sit down by him on his right hand, and his son Tigranes on his left. Then after the Kings relation heard, Pompey determined that the son should have Armenia the lesser, and the father the Kingdom of Armenia, leaving it to him as his heir after his decease, and that Tigranes should leave Syria which he then held, and pay for the charges of the Mithridatean war, of which he had been in part the cause, 6000 talents. All which he did, and more & so Syria was thenceforth made a Province. But young Tigranes ungratefully crossing Pompey, and using his father unreverently, did not only not enjoy that which was given him, but it was restored to his father again, and he was sent bound to Rome, and being there in prison when it was found that he wrote to the Parthians, to stir them up to war against the Romans, he was slain in prison. About two years before this Alexandra the Queen of the Jews being dead, Hircanus her son who had hithereto been High-priest attained to the kingdom. But Aristobulus his younger brother gathered great froces, came against him and overcame him, who fled to the Castle, wherein the wife and children of Aristobulus were. Therefore the brethren came to a parley, and it was agreed that Aristobulus should be King, & Hircanus should lead a private life. But Hircanus not long after through the persuasion of Antipater an Idumaean & a rich man, sought the kingdom again, as his due. He therefore fled with the said Antipater to Aretas King of the Arabians, to whom he had made large offers, to help him to his Kingdom again. Th •• Aretas preparing an Army of 50000 horse and foot, went with Hircanus against Aristobulus. He being in Jerusalem made strong resistance against the enemy, insomuch that there being a most holy man, O ••• s, who had before prevailed for rain in time of drought when he prayed, they fetching him to the Arabian Army would compel him to pray against Aristobulus, this he long refused to do, but being over urged, he at length prayed thus. O God, the King of the whole world, for as much as they that are with us be thy people, and they which are besieged by them are thy Priests, I beseech thee that thou wouldest neither hear these praying against them, nor them against these. The wicked Jews in the Army hearing him say so, were enraged against him and overwhelmed him with stones. Then the Feast of the Passover being come, and the Priests within wanting sacrifices to offer, they prayed some of their brethren without to help them to beasts for their money, they asking 1000 drams a head, promised so to furnish them. But having taken their money, they derided them and would not do it. Hereat the Priests being greatly moved, prayed God to show some judgment upon them, which he did soon after, by sending such a storm as marred the fruits of the earth, whereby a great dearth followed, and so the siege could be no longer continued. Soone after this, Pompey coming from Armeniae, sent Scaurus before him into Syria, to whom coming to Damascus, both Aristob. and Hircanus sent Ambassadors craving the Romans friendship and aid. But Aristobulus, for 300 talents obtained his favor, so as that he sent to Hircanus as he tendered the Romans favor to abstain from war with hi • brother and to go out of Judea, which he therefore did, and returned with King Aretas again into Arabia. Then Aristobulus having gathered together an Army went against them to a place called Papyron, and fighting with them got the victory, slaying 7000 men. And hearing that Pompey was now come to Damascus, both he and other Princes sent rich presents unto him: his being a golden vine of 500 talents, sent by Nicomedes his Ambassador, and Antipater came Ambassador for Hircanus. The one pleaded that he was the elder brother, and wrongfully by the younger put out of his Kingdom, the other that for his sloth and want of courage, he was cast out by the people, so that either he must take the Kingdom, or else it would lie open to the taking of some other. Pompey having heard them, said, that when he had settled the matters of Arabia he would come into Judea and end their difference, using Aristobulus especially most kindly, and willing them both to be quiet in the mean season. Aristobulus notwithstanding being afraid of the worst, returned and sought to strengthen Judea against the Romans coming. Pompey hearing this left his journey into Arabia, and calling his forces together marched towards Judea, Hircanus and his friends being with him and urging him so to do. Aristobulus fled to a Castle, but Pompey approaching, he descended to him, and offered both himself and Kingdom to his disposing, promising to let him in to Jerusalem, and to given him 700 talents. But Gabinius being by Pompey sent for the money, was both denied to enter, and returned empty. Pompey therefore bound Aristobulus and laid siege to Jerusalem, some that were on Hircanus his part persuaded to let him in, but they that were for Aristobulus denied. Yet by Hircanus his faction he was let in & then went to the Temple where his enemies were, and having it three took months he took it, and his soldiers breaking in, slue 12000 of the Jews, the Priests in the mean season nothing daunted hereat, standing still in their places to do the offices belonging to the day, being a fasting day, so were they moved with Religion, more then with the fear of death. Then also as Josephus saith, all the people within the Temple shown great piety, because that during the time of the siege they did nothing upon the Sabbath day in seeking to hinder the Romans, and to beat them from their works made before the Temple, as holding it unlawful for reverence of that day, although they held it not unlawful to fight in their own defense, if their enemies assaulted them upon that day, but this difference putting was not without superstition. Pompey having won the Temple entered in and saw the golden Table and Mercy Seat, and 2000 talents in the treasury, but took nothing away for reverence of the place, and having caused the Temple to be purged, he made Hircanus High-priest, who so continued 22 years. Thus Judea, which had been free now 80 years, and under her own governors, became tributary to the Romans paying, as Josephus saith, 10000 talents and being deprived of the parts of Coelosyria subdued by the Jews, because Pompey made them free, and commanded that they should live under their own President, and this came to pass through the dissention of two brothers about the kingdom. For it was made free in the first year of Simon Prince & High-priest, viz. anno 3823 and was now again brought under tribute, anno 3903. Pompey having settled these things left Syria, and hastened towards Rome, as Josephus saith. But according to others he first composed the difference between Tigranes King of Armenia, and Phraates King of Parthia, and then addressed himself towards Mithridates King of Pontus, who had now gathered together an Army again of 36000, Yet he sent Ambassadors to Pompey for peace, but he willed that he should come himself, from which be desired to be excused, feigning that he was broken out in his face, & therefore suffered no man to see him, but only three Eunuchs that tended upon him. And when this would not satisfy Pompey, he thought to send to the French & so to pass over to them to war against Italy, but his people wearied with his exactions to maintain his Army revolted from him, and his eldest son Pharnaces together with many of his Soldiers, conspired against him, and when they were about to take him, he would have poisoned himself, but because he had oft used means of preservation, the poison would not work upon him, and therefore he killed himself with his sword, according to some, according to others, procured a friend to do this execution, fearing that if he were taken, he should be carried in triumph at Rome. His Body then was sent by Pharnaces to Pompey, who also submitted himself and Kingdom to him, and so was taken for a friend to the Romans, and had the Kingdom of Bosphorus given him. But Pompey insulted not over the dead body of the King, but committed it to the burial, so Mithridates after 27 years wars with the Romans, died, Anno 68 or 69 of his age, when he had reigned about 50 years.

After this Pompey prepareth to return home to Rome, sending before Piso to demand the Consulship after Cicero his year expired, for he and Anthony were then Consuls, but their time was almost out. The Fathers and all the people for fear of Pompey, presently chose Piso Consul. And Pompey tarried still in Asia, he built divers Cities, that he might leave behind him a memorial of his victories. In the year of Cicero his Consulship, Catalin with many more conspired against him, and again disquieted the Roman State, but his conspiracy being discovered, some of his chief associates were taken in Rome and exempted, and he soon in battle slain. For the Jewish affairs. Alexander the son of Aristobulus after Pompey's departure, who carried his father away bound with him gathered together an Army of 10000 foot and 1500 horse, wherefore Gabinius was sent against him, and other Roman Captains, who together with the Jews that continued in obedience to the Romans, fought against him near to Jerusalem. and slue 3000 of his men, and took 3000, then he pursued him to Alexandria, to which City he had fled. But Alexander soon yielded, and so the City was beaten down, and others that lay desolate before were rebuilt, and five Lord's being set to rule over that whole Region, the Romans departed thence. One of these had his seat at Jerusalem, another at Gadara, the third at Amathuntis, the fourth at Jericho, the fifth at Saphora. And now the time came of Pompey's return to Rome, when all feared that he would use his power to act Sylla his part over again, and Crassus in particular fearing it, conveyed himself and his family and goods out of the City. But he contrariwise when he came nigh to Rome. dismissed his Army to their own houses, willing them only to be present at his triumph. This being heard in Rome, did so affect the Senate and City, that they went forth in great abundance to meet him, and conducted him into the City with all joy. Then at his request again new Consuls were made, Afranius and Metellus Celer, and he triumphed most gloriously, as Conqueror of this the parts of the World, about 35 of his age. But to show the instability of this worlds glory, so soon as his triumph was over his enemies began to oppose him, so that now he repented his so sudden dismissing of his Army, for first Metellus, by his means made Consul, opposed him for his sisters sake, whom Pompey for her light behavior had put away, after her returning out of Syria. And for Afranius, the other Consul, he gave his mind so much to music, and dancing, and pleasure, that he stood him in no stead. At that time I. Caesar began to be famous for his victories in Spain, and bringing the whole Country into the subjection of the Romans. Returning therefore to Rome he would have triumphed, but because he had not yet been Consul, and so could not, he omitting that sought the Consulship, and attained it. Bibulus being made his Colleague. Then Caesar ambitious of honor and domimon, thought it necessary first to join in friendship with Pompey and Crassus for their great power with the people, then he sought to come into grace with the people, by propounding a law for the dividing of the common field amongst them, which he had so equally prepared that none could speak against it, yet neither would Bibulus, not many of the Senators consent unto it, and after this he sought to come in grace with the Knights, by propounding a Law of remitting to them the third part of their tributes, which passed, and to make that for the people to pass also, he called Pompey and Crassus, and publicly asked what either of them thought of that Law: They both, as he knew well enough before, applauded it and then an Ordnance was made, that upon pain of death everyone should be sworn to it, whereupon for fear, all the Senators yielded. Thus Caesar prevailed in the time of his Consulship, and when his time was out he procured Gabinius, whose daughter he had married, and Piso that had married his daughter to be the Consuls of the next year, and to him was assigned the Province of France. But Cicero in the mean time went down by means of Clodius, Tribune of the people, who was very sharp, against him, and brought him in danger of his life by a Law that he made of putting such to death as had caused any to be cut off without the consent of the people, as he had not long before done. Wherefore he having first basely sought to everyone whom he met of the common sort, and not prevailing, went into voluntary exile, and Cato his chief friend was sent away to be over the affairs of Cyprus. But he continued not so long, for Pompey falling out with Clodius, obtained of the Senate to spite him, that Cice • o was called home again, and Clodius his Law was reversed. Then their being great scarcity of come in Italy, Pompey had power given him over all the World in that matter. Caesar in the mean while prevailed mightily in France, and against the Germans and Belgians, by slaying at sundry times many thousands, and taking many prisoners, bringing them all under obedience, in all which battles, the great expedition that he made gave him the most advantage. His fame then by his victories increasing, when the first three years of his being over that Province were ended, he had five years more granted him, and it was agreed by 200 Senators, and 120 Serjeants that came to him with other great persons to Luca, where he wintered, that Pompey and Crassus should be Consuls, which was also, though with great contention, done accordingly. Cato a wise Senator and a lover of the Common-wealth, who was now again with great glory come out of Cyprus, seeing this feared a tyranny to ensue, and therefore desired to be made Pretor, which for the great respect wherein he was had by the people, was granted, but so earnestly opposed by Pompey, that he found means to set up Vatanius for Pretor, and Cato was rejected, who thereupon foretold the evils that were like to ensue to the State by these Consuls, when they feared to have him Pretor. A law then was made by the Tribune of the people, that Crassus should go to Syria, where Gabinius had hitherto been, and Pompey to Spain. Caesar having his time prolonged, prepared to sail over into Britain, because he heard, that the Brittons had sent supplies to the French against him. He passed over therefore with his army, where the Sea was narrowest, but not without loss of some of his ships, the Brittons then came to him to sue for peace, but when his Navy lying at anchor had suffered shipwreck by a great tempest arising at that time, they armed to fight against him. But being overcome, they soon sued to him again for peace, which he granted, and requiring hostages to be sent after him into France, which they promised, returned thither again, and then went against the Germans and Swedes, and prevailing everywhere, because two Cities only sent him hostages from Britain, he sailed thither again, but with great loss in his Navy, as at the first. Yet he so prevailed, that then he made tributary Britain to the Romans. But for Crassus, he being appointed to Syria out of his covetousness and ambition, bent his mind rather to go against Parthia, where no Roman Commandor had hitherto been, thinking therefore by subduing the Parthians to get him the more glory and riches. But most unwisely when he had made known this his intent, he went first into Syria, giving the Parthians time to prepare for him to his own destruction. Then coming to Jerusalem he robbed the Temple of that creasure, which Pompey for reverence to the place could not touch, viz. of 2000 talents of Gold, and 8000 more laid up there, as Josephus saith: neither was this all, but a beam of Gold weighing 300 pound, covered over with Cedar board, of which none knew, but Eleazar, the keeper of the ornaments, and it was by him given to Crassus fearing, that he would otherwise take away all precious utensils of the Temple, Crassus swearing to him at the same time to the contrary. But notwithstanding his oath he carried all away, yet he had not long joy of it. For going from Syria towards Parthia, when he would by no means be flayed from that expedition, it turned to the overthrow of his whole army and his own destruction also in the end. For Orodes the Parthian King sent Ambassadors to him before his setting out to know the cause why he would make war upon him: but he contemptuously answered, that he would make the cause known, when he came to Seleucia, whereunto Vasiges the chief Ambassador answered, saying, here shall sooner grow hairs, holding up the palm of his hand, then thou shalt come to Seleucia. Then Orodes sent out forces to reduce such places to his obedience; as had revolted from him, and also to keep the King of Armenia from helping the Romans. By this means some of the Romans, who were left to keep those places, had a taste of the Parthians valor, and fleeing with great fear came and told Crassus, whereupon the Captains and Soothsayers disuaded him from that War. But he being resolutely bent would hearken to none of them, and so coming to battle, the Parthian bowmen sent forth such a shower of arrows, that many of his men were slain, whilst they were but approaching towards them. Crassus then hoping, that this storm would not last long encouraged his men hereby, but when news was brought him, that there were many Camels laden with arrows wherewith the Parthians were again supplied when their first were spent, he put on to come to handy strokes, but the Parthians retiring kept them still at a distance killing and, slaying as they did before, and when the Romans came up to them, they came with such vilence, pierced them with their spears, that sometimes they thrust through two of them at once. The night coming on ended the battle, and in the night Crassus with only four bands of men in silence fled. The next day the Parthians pursued him, but he had placed himself and men, so that the Parthian horsemen could not come at them, wherefore Syrenas the Parthian General dealt politically, by going and offering to make peace with the Romans upon reasonable terms, if Crassus would come forth unto him, to whom he offered his hand for assurance. But Crassus suspecting fraud refused, yet so desirous of peace were his soldiers, that they urged him to go and he went, though unwillingly and then in a shorttime he had the reward of his sacrilege and covetousness by being slain, when he was mounted upon an horse trapped with Gold given him by Syrenas in the Kings name. Being dead, his head was cut off, and his right hand, and his mouth filled with Gold; carried about with contempt. Then almost all his men, that remained with him were destroyed also. But neither Syrenas nor Orodes his Master went long unpunished for this their perfidy, for Serenas was slain by Orodes envying this his glory, and Orodes soon after lost Pacorus his son in battle against the Romans, and then his other son Phraates gave his father poison, and when it wrought away by reason of the hydropicalnesse of his body doing him more good then hurt he strangled him, till that he died.

Touching the Jewish affairs, when Gabinius having overthrown Alexander the son of Aristobulus, as was said before, thought, that now the Jews would be quiet, Aristobulus being hitherto a prisoner at Rome, escaped from thence and came again to Iudoea, and entering into Alexandria, attempted to fortify it by the help of many Jews, that flocked unto him: but Gabinius sending out forces hindered him from that, then he fled to the Castle of Machernutis, taking only 8000 men with him. But Gabinius coming thither with his army, it was within two days taken and Aristobulus being diversely wounded, came again into the Romans hands together with his son Antigonus, and was the second time sent prisoner to Rome. Then Aristobulus his son Alexander gathered new forces to the number of 30000: but Antipater was sent to the Jews to persuade them to peace, and when he could not prevail with Alexander, another battle was fought betwixt him and Gabinius, wherein Alexander was again overcome, and 10000 of his army slain, the rest being put to flight. So Gabinius, his time being expired, he committed the ordering of things there to Antipater, and returned to Rome. Then Crassus coming to govern in Syria, robbed the Temple of infinite riches, as was said before, and Josephus to prove it true, that the Temple had then in it so much treasure, alledgeth Strabo and some other reason to make it probable, which I omit, as thinking it almost incredible for the vastness of the sum, the Temple having been often pillaged and poled before by other Tyrants. Crassus then by going against the Parthians, brought himself to ruin, and Cassius escaping out of that war came to Syria, and being thither pursued by the Parthians he defended the Country against them, and repelled them. Then he fought against those Jews that held with Aristobulns under Pitholaus his Captain, and slue both him, and many of them, being specially stirred up by Antipater, who was the father of Herod, afterwards King, for he was a man of great authority amongst the Arabians, having to wife Cypron an Idumaean of a most Noble Family, of whom came King Herod Phasaetus, Josephus and Pherotas, and by confederating with other great Princes, especially Arabians, he grew very potent. And he himself as Josephus saith, was an Idumaean, rich and factious, and the first occasion of setting Aristobulus the King of Judoea, and Hircanus together by the ears, whereby that Kingdom was again brought under tribute by Pompey, as was shown before. And by this means he came into grace with the Romans, as siding with Hircanus, who was always more yielding and submiss towards them, then his brother Aristobulus, whereby he laid a foundation of his son Herod's future rise to the Kingdom.

To return to Rome, whilst Cassius Questor to Crassus, after his death, ruled in Syria, and Coesar continued still in his wars in France and Germany great contention happened between Milo and Clodius at Rome, and Clodius in this dissention being slain, those that were on Clodius his side, armed and came to the Senate, where Milo was, excusing himself, so that he was fain speedily to flee disguised, and hereupon followed other great tumults in the City, the rude multitude under color of seeking Milo from house to house, robbing and spoiling many. Then the Senate not knowing otherwise what to do, first thought of a Dictator, but fearing to set up such a Magistrate, when they remembered Sylla and his tyranny, by Catoe's persuasion it was agreed, that one man should be Consul alone, and that Pompey for his valor, justice, and love, should be the man. Then Pompey with his forces coming into the City, soon quieted all things, and then married the daughter of Scipio, and took him into the fellowship of his Consulship, and soon after obtained the Province of Spain for four or five years. In the mean season Caesar by reason of these tumults at Rome was put to much trouble in France, many Cities then taking heart to rise up in Arms again and to fight for their liberty, supposing that he would hasten to Rome to quiet those stirs. But he hearing thereof, and withal that Pompey by his wisdom had settled the Roman affairs, betook himself again with all speed to his forces, and gathered them together, and went out with such celerity in the dead time of winter, that he was ready to give battle to his enemies before they thought him to have been returned, and after many fights so brought them under again, as that both they and their King were at his mercy, whereby he got abundance of treasure, and then it being granted that he should be the second time Consul, he shown so great liberality to the people and soldiers doubling their stipends forever that he won their hearts, and so laid a foundation to his rise to the Empire. At Rome the news of Casars victories being heard, Litanies, or Thanksgivings were determined for 20 days to be made unto their gods. But after this Caesar still stayed in France, & Pompey not being yet gone out of Italy into Spain, new Consuls were made after his time expired, viz. Marcellus and Sulpitius. Then Caesar sued to be continued in his Province sometime longer, fearing least if he left it and returned to Rome to a private condition Pompey would be to mighty for him. But Marcellus being for Pompey, would not permit it, of this Caesar being informed, said, then this shall do it, pointing to his sword: yet nothing was done, till Marcellus his time was expired, then succeeded in the Consulship another Marcellus and Paulus, the one an enemy to Caesar, the other won unto him by his profuse gifts, and Curio was Tribune of the people, who also seemed to be an enemy but was indeed a friend. For not long after upon some dissention Marcellus going to Pompey, and of his own head, without the consent of the Senate, committing the government of the City to him he went to Caesar, who having firstsetled things in France and Belgium, returned into Italy, where he was joyfully received of the people. But he stayed at Ravenna, till he had sent Letters to the Senate by Curio, & received answer. Therein he offered to lay down arms and to dismiss his forces, if Pompey would do the like, if this offer should not be accepted, he would come with his forces to be revenged upon his enemies. This was presently taken; as a denouncing of War, and immediately great treasures were delivered to Pompey, and soldiers were raised in all parts, although Caesar had also offered, if the Senate should think good rather, that Pompey should go forth with into his Province of Spain, he would continue in France, with only two Legions, till he were declared Consul for the next year, which he had now long desired. Caesar hearing of their preparation spake unto his soldiers, who had been under his Empire 10 or 11 years, exhorting them to stick to him to defend him from his enemies, which were only the 13 Legion then present. They readily assenting, he presently calling more out of France, set upon divers Cities in Italy, and took them, insomuch that the report hereof coming to Rome they greatly feared, neither durst any come forth against him, wherefore he over-ran all Piceum, the Towns and Cities all readily yielding to him, Then he went to Corsinium, where Domitius, a Captain of Pompey's was with 20 bands of men. He then preparing to besiege the City, Domitius sent to Pompey for aid, but having a negative answer, and that he should get away as well as he could, and come with his men to him, he prepared so to do, but his soldiers turned to Caesar, and delivered him into Caesar's hands the next day, and then many Senators and Knights present there yielded themselves, all whom and Domitius he dismissed without hurt, although Domitius despayring took poison first, but then seeing his humanity repented, and the supposed poison wrought no further, but to bring him to a sleep. Caesar also let him carry away with him great treasure, which lay there for the pay of his army. This kindness and bounty of Caesar drew many more of Pompey's soldiers daily to him. Caesar then went against Pompey, who fled before him to Brindisi. Caesar followed him thither and besieged the City yet he invited Pompey first to a Colloquy, which he refused, then seeing Caesar's preparations against the City he sailed away and left Brindisi and all Italy to Caesar. The next day Brindisi was yielded, and Pompey bending his course to Spain, where he thought, that the people would stick to him, Caesar went to Rome, and without bloodshed brought all under his power, offering still to the Senate to have Embassaders sent to Pompey for peace, but none durst undertake that task. Then Caesar demanding money out of the treasury for his soldiers was denied, but the treasury being by his men broken open, he took abundance, and immediately sent forth one of his Captains to take in Sardinia, another to Sicily, and a third to Africa, which they did. But Pompey commanded over all Spain, Syria, and the Eastern parts. Wherefore Caesar let loose Aristobulus, who had been hitherto prisoner at Rome to go into Syria to repossess his Kingdom in Judea, for this he thought, would be a weakening to Pompey. But he was poisoned and died by the way by some, that favored Pompey, and order was also immediately taken, that Alexander his son being in Judea should be slain also, left he should make any new stirs there, and this was done by Scipio, President of Syria under Pompey. Then Caesar himself hastened into Spain, passing thither by France, and there increasing his army. Being come into Spain and besieging Massilia, he was sometime brought into great straits for want of provision. Yet he was soon again delivered out of that danger, and in a Sea-fight his overcoming their enemies, Massilia being terrified yielded, and so did many Cities more in Spain, a great motive to them still being his humanity towards all. Caesar then returned to Rome again where he was made Dictatour, but leaving that office within 14 days, the 11 year being now come wherein he might be made Consul according to Law, which willeth that 10 years come between the same man's being Consul the first and second time, he and P. Servilius were made Consuls. This being done, he applied his mind chiefly to pursue Pompey, who had at Caesar's first coming into Spain before spoken of left it and gone into Asia to raise forces there, For he thought whilst he continued, he could not come to that power which he desired. Into Asia therefore he followed him, and came to Epirus, where all readily yielded unto him.

Pompey hearing this, leaves Thessalonica, where he had thought to have wintered, and travelled night and day till he came at Dirrachium, where all his provision lay, Caesar also hastening to the same place, so that now their Armies were near one another, a river only parting them. Then some attempt was made again by Caesar, to come to agreement, but in vain, seeing both aimed at the chief power, and Pompey would not live through Caesar's favor. For Pompey, he had far greater forces, and was better provided then Caesar, having such forces at Sea also, under the leading of Bibulus, as that he had the command thereof, and Anthony a Captain of Caesar's with his power, deferred also to come unto him. But at length he came, and Scipio out of Syria to Pompey, and then Caesar had a great desire to fight, but Pompey would not stir from an hill, where he had seated himself for his most advantage, until that Caesar making away, as if he would depart thence, he came down, at what time he turning back upon him, and the battle began, Caesar not having half the number of men that he had: for Pompey had 45000, Caesar but 22000, yet so cunningly was it ordered by Caesar, that Pompey's horsemen were first put to flight, and then his foot, which he seeing fled to his tents, but being immediately pursued by Caesar, he changed his habit, and fled by water from place to place, till he came into Egypt, where he thought that for his former good deserts he should be protected. But Ptolemy the King being very young, his Council considering the danger that the Kingdom might be brought into by Caesar, if Pompey should be there harboured, or if they dismissed him being come into their power, resolved to slay him, and therefore this being committed to the trust of two men, they treacherously acted this bloody part, when they had drawn him on to the Sea in a fishers ship, and then cutting off his head, reserved it till Caesar's coming, but so far was he from giving them thanks, that he slue them, and wept at the fight of it, calling him his friend, that had done him many good offices, and his son in law, and so buried his head honourably. Touching the loss of men in the foresaid War, some say, that Caesar lost not above 200, some 1200, and Pompey 15000 according to some, 6000 according to others. However, his loss was not so great to drive him to that cowardly sleeing away, neither regarding more to gather together his scattered forces, that he might give his enemy battle again. But God would thus make way to the Roman Monarchy, so long before prophesied of by Daniel, by prospering Caesar in all things, and daunting his enemies. And of this Caesar was also so confident, that he feared no danger, as appears in that going privately upon a time to sea, and the sea growing tēpestuous, which made the Governor of the ship afraid, he spake to him saying, fear nothing, seeing thou carryest Caesar. Pompey having left his forces, they for the most part soon yielded to Caesar, all whom he pardoned, lasting some together with his own men, and sending some home to Rome, with letters to the Senate, signifying his care to save as many Romans as he could. Only such Senators and Commanders as came into his power, whom he had formerly taken and dismissed, he put to death, and all the Auxiliary forces of other Countries, whom he could easily distinguish from Romans by their language. Yet after this victory, Caesar was in great danger when he came into Egypt by reason of the few forces, only two Legions, and 900 horsemen whom he took thither with him. For there being then war betwixt Ptolemy the King, and his sister Cleopatra, and Caesar seeming to favor Cleopatra most, when he undertook to compose the difference between them, a tumult was suddenly raised through the Kings exclamations hercupon, and 20000 gathered together under one Achillas, and by sea 120 sails were gathered together to stop any other forces of Caesar's from coming to him, wherefore encouraging his men which he had with him, he brake through that multitude, and coming to the Sea coast, set the ships on fire and burnt them all, and then the fire from them fleeing to the most famous library in Alexandria, a great number of excellent books were burnt also. Caesar then having cleared the coast, sent for aid and provision from divers parts. But before they could come at him, he had many battles with the Egyptians, and sometimes was in great danger of perishing, insomuch that he was once constrained to swim for his life a great way with one hand, for he held his books above the water with the other, yet at length with the help of Mithridates, son of the famous Mithridates King of Pontus coming to his aid, he got such a victory over the Egyptians that twenty thousand of them were slam, and Ptolemy their King also. Then he gave the Kingdom to a younger brother, and Cleopatra his sister, who had formerly reigned together with Ptolemy, and was his wife, as their father had by his Will appointed, and then she became wife to him. But Caesar had first a son by her called Caesaron. In the time of this Egyptian War, Antipater, the father of Herod also, who had before cleaved unto Pompey, he being dead, came into favor with Caesar, for he came to help him at Alexandria with three thousand Jews, wherefore when he had gotten the foresaid victory, he coming into Judea, confirmed Hircantes in the High-priesthood, and made Antipater Governor in Judea, according to his own desire, granting liberty to Hircanus to build the walls of Jerusalem again, which had been beaten down by Pompey. And indeed, as Josephus saith, Antipater had fought very valiantly, together with Mithridates for Caesar, insomuch that Mithridates acknowledged that he was saved in that War by his valor. Therefore Antigonus the son of Aristobulus coming after this to complain to Caesar of him and Hircanus, and to move him to some pity, by recounting, that his father was slain as he was coming to Judea by his appointment, and his brother cut off by Scipio, in respect of Caesar, to despite whom, Scipio at the command of Pompey did this, could not be heard when Antipater had spoken, but Caesar did him all the honor that might be, and declared him a friend to the Romans. Caesar now hearing of troubles at Rome, would have hastened thither, but because he thought it needful first to settle things in Asia, he stayed a while about Pontus, which Kingdom Pharnaces the son of old Mithridates had taken into his possession, as of right belonging to him, after that he had overthrown Domitius a Captain of Caesar that came against him. But when he heard that Caesar was coming thitherward, he sent Ambassadors to him for peace, and a Crown of gold, but Caesar would not consent, except he went out of Pontus, and made satisfaction for the hurts which he had done, upon this a great battle was fought, and Pharnaces was overthrown and put to flight, and soon after slain, and the kingdom was bestowed upon Mithridates his brother. But whilst Caesar was thus busied, Cato went to Caelosyria, having with him Cicero, and Octavius, and Pompey, the son of Pompey the Great, and Scipio with many others, who were against Caesar, thinking to strengthen themselves in Africa and Spain against him, and so with a great power to come to Rome. But Caesar hearing of it in the winter time, took shipping without further delay, to come upon them before they were aware, which he did, though in his passage to Africa he sustained much loss. Being come thither, at the first he laid about him for provision, whereof he had great want a long time, and having but small forces, he was in great danger of being quite overthrown, by the great preparations that were made against him by Scipio, to whom the chief government of this War was committed, and by Juba King of Numidia. But it so fell out that one Sittius, a man banished out of Italy, gathering together divers other exiles, came at that time to Bocchus, and of him obtaining more forces invaded the Kingdom of Juba, whereby he was forced to return to defend his own Country, and by this means Scipio his Army was weakened, so that he durst not yet go against Caesar. He therefore took Ruspina, and attempting to do the like to other places, Labinus and Petrius, being of the Pompeyan faction, encountered with him, and after a long fight were beaten by him. Then Scipio sent to Juba, making great proffers to him to come again and help him. Hereupon he came, and brought with him many Elephants, which the Romans with Caesar seeing, were greatly terrified: but Caesar so ordered the battle, setting bowmen to shoot at the Elephants, that they being enraged by the wounds which they received, turned upon their leaders, and disordered the whole Army, and made the victory more easy for Caesar. Then were slain of the Pompeyans 10000, according to some 30000, but of Caesar's men only 50, and all the Elephants being 60, came into Caesar's power. Cato being all this time at Utica, where many favored Caesar, and therefore were, by such as fled thither out of the battle, spoiled of their goods, & some slain, when he sought to dissuade them from such outrages, and could not, with a weapon which he carried with him, when he went to bed, thrust himself through and although the wound were not mortal at the first, yet his servants coming and seeking to save him, he rent it wider, till he died, saying that he had rather die then receive the favor at Caesar's hands to live. Scipio by fleeing away by water saved himself, but Juba returning into his own Kingdom perished, as some say, by laying violent hands upon himself also: For returning secretly into his Kingdom, together with Petreius, and being from every City to which he came shut out, he despairing of safety first sought with Petreius, and slue him, and then himself by the help of a servant. Scipio being long tossed upon the Seas, came at length to Spain,