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ME
IG?
THE
ROMAN
HISTORY
The Wentworth
THE
ROMAN Hiſtory
}
From the Reftitution of the
ེ་
Weſtern Empire
BY
CHARLEMAGNE,
To the Taking of
CONSTANTINOPLE
BY THE
TURKS
Containing the space of 653 Years.
Vol. IV. and laſt.
By the Author of the Third.
Being a further Continuation of Mr. Echard's
Hiſtory
LONDON:
Printed for W. Freeman, near Temple-Bar ; 7. Walthec
in the Temple; T. Newborough, in St. Paul's Church.
Yard; 7. Nicholſon, in Little-Britain; and R. Parker,
under the Royal Exchange in Cornhil. 1906.
1
. .
A
conneing
+
Iragean ,
72203-31
75575
PREFACE
1
ΤΗ
He firſt Continuator of Mr. Eachard's Roman Hi-
ſtory, having got the ſtart of us by almoſt a year, in
the Publiſhing his Third and fourth Volumes, had an ope
portunity to come out long before us with his Fifth and laſt
Part. But as we were not diſcourag'd by his Performance
of the two former Volumes, in our deſign to continue the
Same Hiſtory from the Removal of the Imperial Seat from
Rome to Byzantium by Conftantine the Grear, to the Re-
ftauration of the Weſtern Empire by Charlemagne, So,
bad we ſtay'd till his fifth Volume appear’d, we ſhould
have bad as little reaſon to give over our Undertaking to
carry it down to the Diſſolution of the Byzantine Empire.
We had obſerved ſeveral Errors and Contradi&tions that
are intirely the Continuators in his fifth Vollume ; But be
is so little diſpos’d to Correct them, that we ſhall not trou-
ble the World with what we remark'd in him of that na-
ture in running the Book over, He knows full well without
doubt that the eaſieſt way of anſwering Objections is to
negleft 'em; but 'tis necesſary a Mans Reputation in the
World foould be a little more Eſtabliſhed before he aſſumes
that Priviledge, for as yet we are very well aſur'd the Pub-
lick does not believe him Infallible, and when be is charg'd
with an Error, they expect he ſhould diſcharge it, or they
will juſtly conclude 'tis not in his Power. Indeed as for bis
Miſtakes in his laſt Volume, they are the more excufable
becauſe the Hiſtorians from whom he was oblig'd to take his
Memoirs were very apt to miſtake.
In this our fourth Volume we run thro' the fame Story,
as far as he has done in his Fifth, and in our two Volumes
have included above a third part more Matter than there
is in his Three; we have met with the ſame Difficulties
that he did. Some of the Byzantine Hiſtorians, as Anna
Comnena and Johannes Cantacuzenus, we could not truſt
for their Partiality, the former to her Father, the latter to
bimſelf. Others of 'em, as Leo the Grammarian, and
Nicephorus Bryennius are so short, that the Reader wou'd
bave
PREFACE.
Lave had a very sender Idea of the Times they wrote of
bad we not colledted more Materials elſewhere. And others
of them, as Nicetas and Pachymerus are ſo tedious, that
each of them would make a Volume larger than our tohole
Hiſtory from Charlemagne to the laji Conftantine, thos
they treas of but a ſmall part of it. All of 'em arc
fway'd by Pallion, or byafs’d by Intereſt. The Greek Monks,
who had their Reaſons for it, wrote fometimes for, and
Sometimes againſt their Emperors, as they lik'd or diſik'd
the Superſtition of the Latins. Some of 'em were for
Image Worſhip, and some againſt it. Moſt of the Hiſto-
rians were Ecclefiafticks, and moſt of their Hiſtories are
conſequently Libels or Encomiums on thoſe Emporors, who
were kind or unkind to them, The Period we have now
written of is the most confusºd of any in our whole Work:
The Chriſtian World from the Ninth to the Fifteenth cen-
tury was overwhelm'd with Darkneſs and Diſorder, and
cwas the intereſt of their Spiritual Rulers to keep it in
Profound Ignorance. What can be expected from ſuch
Times but Confuſion and Chaos ? However we have with
much difficulty broke through all, and we hope to preſent the
Reader with a clear Image of the laſt period of the Byzan-
tine Hiſtory. Here s as much of it as he will bave curioſity
to know; we have omitted no important Events, and have
put
them all into the beſt Order we could. We are indebte
ed to the Byzantine Hiſtorians for the greateſt part of theſe
Memoirs, but when the Latins were concerned we had
recourſe to Latin Authors, for neither Greeks nor Larins
are to be rely'd upon entirely, when they ſpeak of them.
felves. We have in the Body of the Book obſerv'd by what
Steps the Turkiſh Power roſe to the heighe we leave it in,
in the concluſion of our Work, with which the Roman
Hiſtory ends. Indeed all of it that followed the irruption
of the Saracens into the Empire was not properly a Ro-
man but a Greek Hiſtory; yet becauſe the Greek Empe-
ror's deriv'd their Origin from the Roman, and the Cono
ftantinopolitans pretended to derive themſelves from the
Ancient Romans, we follow the Example of the Byzantine
Hiſtorians, and call them either Romans or Greeks as #
molt for our conveniency,
THE
Chap. I.
I
2
1
1
THE
{
ROM AN Hiſtory
1
C H A P. I.
í
From the Depoſition of Irene, and the
Advancement of Nicephorus to the
Reign of Bafilius the Macedonian.
Containing the Space of Sixty Five Tears.
Nicephorus.
W
É concluded the Third Volume of the
Roman Hiſtory with the Reſtauration
of the Weſtern Empire by Charle-
magne, the Depoſition of Irene the
Empreſs and the Advancement of
Nicephorus in the Eaſt. Having gio'n the Reader a.
View of Charles The Grear's Coronation at Rome, and
his ſettling a new Doininion in the Weſt, over the Pro-
vinces that formerly were ſubject to the Roman Empe-
fors, we ſhall leave the Hiſtory of chat Empire.co
thoſe who crear of the Affairs of Germany, the Succefi
B
fora
2
The Roman Hiſtory.
ܕ
Chap. 1.
1
A. D. fors of Charlemagne being better known in Story by the
802. Name of German than of Roman Emperors. We ſhall
in this Volume, which will put an End to our whole
Work, follow the Fate of the Remainders of the True
Roman Empire, that were under the Dominion of the
Conſtantinopolitan Emperors, Succeffors of Conſtantine,
who remov'd the Imperial Seat from Rome to Conſtan-
tinople. We are now about to enter on a Series of
Confus'd and Unfortunate Events, unworthy the Name
of a Roman Hiſtory; but the Greeks, who were really
Mafters of the Eaſtern Provinces, affected to give them-
felves the Honourable Name of Romans. Thus they
are always call'd by their Hiſtorians, and even in the
Days of the Laſt Conſtantine, in whoſe Reign the Chri.
ftian Empire in the Eaſt was diſſolv'd, and the Turks
made an intire Conqueſt of the Imperial City, the
Greeks ſtill uſurpr the Name of Romans, and had the
Vanity to aſſume it till that, and almoſt the very Re-
membrance of their Ancient Glory was forgot in Sla-
very.
We left the Empreſs Irene confind in the Iſland of
Lesbos, and Nicephorus in Poſſeſſion of the Imperial
Throne at Conftantinople. The Romans had conceiv'd
great Hopes of this Emperor ; he had behav'd himſelf
well in the Adminiſtration of Affairs that fell under
his Management, as Controuler of the Treaſury, and
Nicepho-
Chancellor of the Empire; but he ſoon diſappointed the
fus grows Expectations of his new Subjects, and became as Cruel
Tyrannicul.and as Odious as his immediare Predeceffor Irene.
Charlemagne, though he did not fear what the Eaſtern
Emperor could do in Oppogrion to his Uſurp'd Empire
in the Weſt, was willing ro have Nicephorus his Friend,
and accordingly ſent Foſſe, Biſhop of Orleans, and
Count Helling.ind in an Embally to him, to conclude a
Treaty of Peace with hini. Theſe Ambaſſadors were
favourably receiv'd by Nicephorus, and after many Des
baies between the Roman Miniſters and them, 'twas
agreed, that Charles the Great ſhould be acknowledg'd
Emperor of the Weſt, that all Italy, excepting half of
HC071 the Kingdom of Naples, which was to be ſubject to the
cludes a Eatern Emperors Venice and its Dependancies,
1e with which were under that Republick, Bavaria, Hungary,
Charle-
Aufiria, Croatia, Dalmatia, Sclavonia, Germany, F1033,ge
mane.
ar.
Chap. I.
3
Nicephorus.
1
803.
and Spain were to be comprehended in his Empire, and A. D.
all the Eaſtern Provinces to be under the Dominion of 803
Nicephorus, who was very well pleas'd that he had for-
tify'd himſelf by the Alliance of fo Potent a l'rince as
Charlemagne.
He was advanc'd to the Sovereignty with great Diffi-
culty. Ætius, an Eunuch, and one of the late Empreſs
Irene's Chief Favourites, had formd a powerful Faction
in Favour of his Brother Leo, and having heape up a
prodigious Treaſure during his Miniſtry in the late
Reign, he bad made his Parry by that Means very confi-
derable, but the Principal Officers of the Empire and the
Patricians declar'd for Nicephorus, However thoſe that
had been engag d by the Eunuch, continu'd Malecontents
and watch'd all Opportunities to diſturb his Govern-
ment. 'Twas not long before the new Emperor by his
inſatiable Avarice and open Impiery provok'd the Ro-
mans to ſet up Bardanes in the Eaſt, where he was ía-
luted Emperor, on the 19th of Fuly, in the First Year
of Nicephorus's Reign, by the Army which he com- Bardanes
manded. He was firnani'd the Turk, either for the filuted
Reſemblance between his Manners and the Infidels, or
Emperor.
becauſe he was always employ'd in the Ealtern Wars.
He was a Patrician, and Famous for his Courage and
Fortune at a Time when the Romans were not the moſt
Fortunate por the Braveſt Nation in the World : Beſides
thoſe rare Qualities, he was Generous and Human.
Michael and Lco, Two Oficers of his Army, ſupport-
ed him in his Uſurpation; bur Bardanes, either loath
to begin a Civil War, or fearing Nicephorus's Power,
was ſoon weary of the Honours they oblig'd bim to
affume ; which Leo and Michael perceiving, they deſerred
in Time to the Emperor, were pardon'd, anda dvanc'd
to ſuch High Pofts, that both of them ſucceſſively Hope
eagly from thence into the Throne. 'Tis Said a Herimit
came to Bárdanes, and warn'd him to give over his Dee
lign, prophecying, that if he perfitted in it, he ſhould go fub-
loſe his Enare and his Eyes. The Hermit's Advice, mits to Ni-
or Bardines's Fears, prevail'd with him to ſend a fab cephorus,
iniflive Letrer to Nicephorus to beg Pardon, which the
Emperor readily granted : But upon Burdanri's ſub.
mitting himfelf to his Meray, he was confind in the
Monaſtery of Heraclius at Carobolium, and had his Eyes
pus
--
BE
!
4
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
guint 1-
Mage Wor.
Å.D. put out : For Nicephorus already began to diſcover his
8c3,
wicked frinciples, and that he was not to be bound by
Oaths or Promiſes, delighting alike in Cruelty and Ava-
rice, and being as falſe as he was coverous and cruel. Nice
tas, who had been very inſtrumental in the Promotion of
Nicephorus to the Imperial Dignity, is ſaid to be poi-
fond by his Order, out of Jealouſie of a Man, whoſe
Intereſt was ſo great, that he fear'd it might be preju.
dicial to his Son Stauraciis, whom he reſolv'd to affoci-
are with him in the Empire, at leaſt in Appearance,
and accordingly he was Crown'd by Taraſius the Pa.
triarch in December.
As bad as this Emperor is repreſented to be, we
doubt not the Monkiſh Hiſtorians have blacken'd him,
and made him worſe than he really was, on Account of
He is a.
his perſecuting Idolatry, and deſtroying Images, which
was one of his beſt Acts; whether he did it out of
hip. Zeal to the Purity of Worſhip, or only out of Aver-
lion to the Friends of the fate Government, who were
for paying Adoration to Images, we ſhall not pretend
to determine : However we may conjecture from his
favouring the Herefie of the Manicheans, that his Piery
was not extraordinary, and that there was too much
Policy or Reſentinent in his diſcountenancing Imagc-
Vorhip, for which Reaſon the Latin Authors cannor
give him a good Word, and indeed the Greeks have
very few in his Praiſe.
Nicephorus reſolving to ſignalize the Coronation of
His Son by fome Glorious Action, undertook an Expe-
dirion againſt the Saracens, whole Caliph or Prince then
rcigning was Aaron, one of their moſt Famous Cap-
tains : He was included in the Treaty agreed on be-
sween Nicephorus and Charlemagne, by Means of the
Batter, who maintain'd a friendly Correfpondence with
him Aaron ſent an Elephant to Charles the Great, and
the Keys of all the Holy Places in Jeruſalem, and thus,
according to Cardinal Baronius's Reaſoning, the French
became the Firſt lawful loffeflors of Chriſt's Sepulcher;
Charles
as if the Donation of an infidel, who with-held the Do-
magnet
minion of Paleſtine from the Roman Emperors, the
rizni to
sbe Calist. Rightful Snueseigns of it, was valid, or Jaron's Com-
pliinent was a Ticle which the French had Reaſon ro
boaſt of, or wheir Flatrerers for them. What is moſt
3
re
:
1
Chap. I.
1
{
Nicephorus.
5
remarkable in this Evenr, is, to ſee how early the A. D.
French Ally'd themſelves with the Mahometans, Ene- 803
mies to the Faith of Chriſt.
Nicephorus not minding the Treary in what it related 8042
10 Aaron, part over into Aſia with a Numerous Army, and
invaded the Caliph's Territories. Aaron met him with
an Ariny much more Numerous, entirely defeated him,
and made an Irruption into the Empire with Three
Hundred Thouſand Men. He came as far as Tyana,
che Capital City of the Leſs Cappadocia, took it, turn'd
the Carhedral Church into a Moſque, made himſelf
Maſter of ſeveral other Cities, and decaching Sixty
Thouſand Men from the Main Body of his Troops,
ravag'd the Country as far as the Gares of Ancyra in
Galati
The Emperor contenting himſelf wiih bis In-
glorious Expedition into Afia, was bufy'd at Conſtantino-
ple in Building and other Amuſements. He rais'd an
Army, and made as if he intended once more to croſs
the Streights in Perſon, but when he heard what a pro-
digious Number of Inddels were ſpoiling his Provinces,
he thought 'twould be in vain to oppoſe them by Arms.
He therefore ſent Ambaſſadors to the Caliph with Pro-
poſals of Peace, which the Barbarian rejected, requi-
ring that Nicephorus thould pay him a Yearly Tribute Nicepha,
of 30000 Pieces of Gold of his own Coin for himſelf,
rus Tribute
and 3000 for his Son, as a Token of their being
tury to ibe
both his Tributaries; and that the Emperor ſhould not Saracens,
preſume to rebuild or repair the Forts which he had dil
mantled or demolish'd : To theſe hard Terms Nicepho
rus was forc'd to ſubmit. The Money was paid, and
Aaron rerir'd into his own Territories.
Notwithſtanding this Agreement, the Caliph was
ſcarce gone before the Emperor repair'd fome Forts, and
rebuilt others ; at which Aaron was ſo enrag'd, that he
again invaded the Empire, and committed greater
Waft than in his former Invaſion: He alſo equipp'd a
Fleer, embark'd a confiderable Body of Troops aboard,
and lent thein againft Cyprus, which iland thcy took,
kill'd the Inhabicants, or drove them away into Capii-
viry. They derolih'd the Churches, and quite ruin'd
that pleaſant Ifle.
The next Torr they made an Acremp: upon Runci?? ;
they landed, and our many Rhotians to the Sword
B
l
805
3
!
I
6
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
A. D. The Garriſon in the Caftle of the City Rhodes defend-
805
ed themſelves with great Bravery. The Infidels diſ-
courag'd by their vigorous Reſiſtance; re-imbark'd,
and lail'd bomewards. In their way back they touch'd
at Myra, a City in Lycia, where they profan’d the
Tomb of St. Nicholas, for which, ſays our Author,
their Fleer was deſtroy'd by a Tempeſt.
This War ended with the Death of Aaron the Caliph
who dy'd in the following Year. And now Nicephorus.
806. intended to turn his whole Force againſt the Bulgarians,
over whom he had obtain't ſome perty Advantages ;
to this end le rais'd a good Army, and marchd at the
Head of them towards Bulgaria. When he arriv'd ar
Adrianople, the Soldiers refus'd to march for want of
their Pay; he promis'd them fair, but they knew him
too well to truſt him, and neither Threars nor Promiſes
ſucceeding, he was forc'd to give over his Enterprize,
and return to Conſtantinople.
His Son Stauracius, whom he had caus'd tobe Crown'd,
was a Prince equally deform'd in Body and Mind. The
Father's Tyranny was the more inſupportable to the Roo
mans, becauſe it ſeem'd entaild on them in the bad Dir
poſition of the Son. However Nicephorus reſolv’d, if
poſſible, to ſecure the Succeſſion in the Imperial Throne
to him and his Pofterity ; wherefore he was very fol-
licitous to procure a good Wife for him. Neither his
own nor his Son's Character could recommend hiin to
any Foreign Alliance, ſo he looke out for a young La-
dy in his own Territories, to marry her to his Son; and
not finding one preſently to his Mind, he commanded
that all the molt Beautiful Virgins in Conſtantinople
ſhould appear at the Imperial Palace, that he might
choſe one out of them to be his Son's Wife. The young
Ladies made their Appearance accordingly, but they
were all baulk’d, for he took away Theophania, an A-
thenian Gentlewoman, who was marry'd to another
Man, from her Husband, and gave her to Stauracius,
who marry'd her. Nicephorus, to Celebrate the Nup.
cials with the more joy, debauch'd Two of the Vir-
gins who were ſent to Court to be Candidates for his
Son's Bed. Theophania, whom Stauracius marry'd,
was related to the late Empreſs Irene, and the allying
himſelf with a Family that was generally liated by the
RO-
Chap. I.
Nicephorus
7
1
8094
Romans, encreas'd the Number of the Diſaffected. Man A. D.
806.
ny Conſpiracies were form'd againſt him, which were
all detected by the Vigilance of his Miniſters, or the
Treachery of the Conſpirators, and he was as well
pleas'd with the Opportunity he had to ſatiare his. Thirſt
of Blood under Colour of doing Juſtice, as with his
own Preſervation and the Continuance of his Domina-
cion. The vain Attempts of his Enemies exaſperated
him, and their Plotring to deprive him of the Impe-
rial Dignity, juſtify'd, as he thought, all the future
Crueltiềs he exercis'd on the Romans, who abhorr'd his
Tyrannical Government. In the mean Time another
Army was ſent towards Bulgaria, and Eleven Hundred
Pounds of Gold, which was defign'd for the Payment
of the Forces, fell into the Hands of the Barbarians, tha Bulga.
who ſurpriz'd the Convoy, and took the Treaſure. This rians in-
incourag'd Crummus, King of Bulgaria, to make an Inroad vade the
into the Empire, and prevent the Romans, who were Empire.
preparing to invade his Dominions. The Bulgarians met
with a Party of Greeks, defeated them, and kill'd 6000 ;
at which Nicephorus was more enrag‘d with them than
before, reſolving to Conquer them entirely, if all the
Strength of the Empire was ſufficient to do it ; yet tie
took no Care to quier the Minds of his diſcontented
Subjects; he offended alike the Clergy and the Layery;
he loaded the latter with heavy Impofitions ; the for-
tner far'd little better, and were the more diſguſted ac
him for that he ſeem'd to pay no manner of Deference
to the Power of the Church and the Eccleſiaſtical Au.
thority.
Two or Three Years before the Bulgarian War
broke out, Taraſius che Patriarch dy'd, in whole Place
he pur Nicephorus, his Secretary, though he was a Lay.
man, and this Innovation was thought to Scandalous by
the Roman Biſhops and Prieſts, that they were not a lit-
tle Inſtrumental in ferring the Hearts of the People
againſt the Emperor. Many of them join'd wirb Crum-
mus; and the Officers who eſcap d in the late Defear,
were us'd ſo roughly by him at their Return to Constan.
tinople, that in Revenge they deferred to the Bulgarians,
who ſupriz'd Sardica, a City of great Importarce, fi- Sophiq.
quared at the Foor of Mount Hemus ; *cis the Capital
of the Modern Bulgaria; and Nicepkorns pretending be
B 4
wanted
+
8
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
4
A.D. wanted Money to repair the Fortifications of the Place,
811 which Crummus had deſtroy'd, laid a ſevere Tax on
the Citizens of Conſtantinople, though little of it was diſ-
burs'd about the Uſes 'twas giv'n for. As much as he was
infamous for his Avarice, he always was poor ; his
Expences on his Lufts, and his Magnificent Buildings,
his Gifts to his greedy Favourites, and the Extrava-
gancies of his Son, empty'd his Treaſury as faſt as he
fill'd it by draining the Purſes of his Subjects.
The Saracens made Incurſions into the Eaſtern Pro.
vinces, and in one of them had the ſame good Fortune
that the Bulgarians had lately; they met with a Party of
Romans, who were Convoy to a greac Sum of Money,
which was intended to pay the Forces in Aſia ; the Infi-
dels routed the Party, flew moſt of them, took the
Gold, and carry'd it off. This was a terrible Diſap-
pointment to him, and the more becauſe he could i!!
ſpare ſuch a Sum at a Time when he was intent on an
Expedition againſt Crummus. To raiſe Money for it,
he laid a Tax on the Churches and Monaſteries, and
an Impofition on the Houſes of the Nobility for Eight
Years: Nicholas, the Patrician, was commanded to ſee
Nicepho-
rus opprer- the Tax levy'd with utmoſt Severity; and had it not
es the
pleas'd God to take hiin off in the midſt of his Opprei-
Clergy and lion and Cruelty, the Romans bad in a few Years been
Mobility. suin'd by the Tyranny of this wicked Emperor, who
ill requited the Favour of the People, in preferring
him to the Empire before others, whoſe Pretences to it
were as much better as their Merit, and all of them
muſt be more worthy than Nicephorus, the unworthieſt
of any Prince that ever acquir'd Dominion by the Voice
of the People. His Example may ſerve to convince
the Lovers of Popular Elections, whatever ſome late
Policicians have ſaid for them that the Choice of the
Multitude is not a certain Defence againſt the Fatal
effects of Parlion and Power,
The Meaſure of Nicephorus's Crimes being full, the
Vengeance of the Almighry purſu'd and overtook him
in his Expedition againſt the Bulgarians. He had goc
a great Army rogether, and made ſure of the Conqueſt
of Bulgaria, but the Troops that follow'd him were
moſt of them Preſt Men who had no Pay, the Emperor
forcing them to maintain themſelves, beſides they
wei
Chap. I.
9
Nicephorus.
1
1
were very ill provided with Arms!; Staves and Slings A. Do
being their only offenſive Weapons ; ſuch Soldiers as 811,
theſe, who hared their Leader, and went unwillingly
to the War, were not like to be ſucceſsful in it, tho
very Numerous; and Nicephorus truſting to their
Number rather than their Courage or Zeal to ſerve
him, had already ſubdu'd the Bulgarians in his Imagi-
nation: With theſe proud Thoughts he enter'd Crum. He invades
mus's Territories. The King lay then at Marcelle,
Bulgaria
where underſtanding that the Romans advanc'd with a
Power ſuperior to his, he began to apprehend the Con-
fequence of the War, and ſent Ambaſſadors to Nicepho-
rus to beg a Peace. The Roman Emperor was per-
fuaded by his Flatterers to refuſe his Petition, though
in his own Opinion he ſeem'd inclin'd to accept of
Crummus's Submiſſion; for every Day as he march'd
he heard the Curſes of his Soldiers that were taken
from their Habitations to follow him to this unneceſſary
War; and he could not hope much from an Army fo ill
diſpos'd, though otherwiſe their Number promis'd him
Succeſs. Crummus's Propoſals being rejected, he grew
Boid in his Deſpair, he collected all his Forces, and
Atood on his Defence, with a Reſolution that daunted
Nicephorus, who lately thought he ſhould ſoon ſee him
following his Triumphal Chariot in Chains. Byzantius,
one of his Favourites and Confidents, deſerting to Crum-
anius with the Inperial Robe and an Hundred Pounds
of Gold, Nicephorus loft his Courage, and as if he was
forc'd to proceed by an irreſiſtible Fate, contrary to his
Inclination, he often repeated thoſe Words, ſpoken by
the Moſt High, w'ho mall perſuade Ahab ? '&c. ad- 1 Kings
ding, What God or Devil draws me on againſt my Will ?22 Chap
His Son Stauracius, who commanded the Van of the 20 Verfé.
Army, had at firſt ſeveral ſucceſsful Engagements with
the Enemy, and the Emperor mightily extolld the
young Prince's Valour and Conduct, though the Ad-
vantages he obtain'd were owing to his fuperior
Strength, and were ſo ſmall they were hardly worth the
naming. Nicephorus every where in his March com-
milred all inanner of Barbariries, ſparing neither Age
nor Sex, Man nor Beaſt; bis Rage extended to Things
inanimate, and the leaſt good Fortune ſwelling his
Mind, encreas'd his Fury , whatever Valuable Prize
was
10
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
1
A. D. was taken by the Romans he commanded to be brought
to him, and order'd thoſe who were guilty of embezzling
any Part of it, to have their Ears or other Members
SLE
cur off.
Crummus pitying the deplorable State of his Sub-
jects, ſent again to ſue for a Peace of Nicephorus, chu-
ſing rather to ſubmit himſelf to the Roman Emperor,
than expoſe his people to the Cruelty and Rapine of
fo Bloody and Coverous a Prince: His Suit being again
deny'd, he reſolv'd to die Fighting in Defence of his
Country, or put an end to the Miſeries of his Subjects;
he therefore ſeiz'd all the Paſſes that Nicephorus had
march'd through, and fortify'd them, ſhutting him up
in ſome Streights, where before he was aware of it he
found himſelf encompaſs’d by his Enemies: As ſoon as
he obſerv'd the Danger he was in, he cry'd out with
Terror and Aſtoniſhment, If we had all Wings we
could never eſcape the Deſtruction that threatens us,
Before be had entrench'd himſelf, Crummus in the
He is kill'd Night-time, the 25th of July 811. broke into his
Camp, forc'd his Way to his Tent, kill'd all that op-
pos'd him, and the Emperor among the reſt ; moſt of
the Roman Nobility were put to the Sword, or led into
Captivity and few of the Soldiers eſcap'd. Crummus
order'd Nicephorus's Head to be cut off, and carry'd
about his Camp in Triumph ; 'twas then naild to a
Gibber, and thence being taken down, he made a Bowl
of his Skull, inlaying it with Silver, which he left to
his Succeffors, Kings of Bulgaria, to be us'd by theni at
all their Solemn Feſtivals, in Remembrance of this
Glorious Victory, the greateft Blow the Romans ever
receiv'd from thar Nation. Crummus oblig'd all thoſe
whom he took Priſoners to renounce their Religion, which
if any of them refus'd, he commanded them to be im-
mediately put to Death, and the moſt part of thoſe
Captives preferr'd Martyrdom to Life. The Romans
would have been inconſolable for the Loſs of ſo many
of their Nobility and Commonalty, had not the Empe-
ror's Death comforted them in their Misfortunes : They
lookt upon him as the moſt dangerous Enemy; and the
Fatherleſs and Widows, who were made fo by his Deo
feat, griev'd the leſs for their Lofres, for that the whole
Empire were deliver'd from a Tyrant, whoſe Power
nie
Chap. I.
Nicephorus.
11
cens.
1
1
و
the fear'd more than either the Bulgarians or Sara. A. D.
811
We ſhall not pretend to give a further Character of
this Emperor ; indeed we don't think we ought to ſpeak
in ſo deciſive a Time, as a late Writer of a Roman Hi-
ftory does, who gives implicit Faith to the Latin
Authors, withour confidering that they were inveterate
Enemies to the Greeks. The Byzantine Hiſtorians can
fay little in his behalf ; but then we muſt remember
that moſt of thoſe Writers were Eccleſiaſticks, to whom
Nicephorus did not pay ſo much Reſpect as his Prede-
ceffors thought it their Intereſt to do : He inſulted
them himſelf, and Tuffer'd his Officers to treat them as
he did. Theſe Authors are ſo kind to themſelves, that
they don't give us any Reaſons why he dealt ſo by them,
but we know that the Ecclefiafticks in thoſe Days were
ſo fond of Power, that 'tis no Wonder a Prince, who
lov'd it ſo well as Nicephorus, ſhould abridge them of
their Authority, and this they might call, being us'd like
Slaves. He was too great a Favourer of the Maniche-
ans ; he deny'd Providence, affirming that the Empe-
ror's was the only ruling Power if he had the Art of
Government, in which, he ſaid, all his Predeceffors
were Fools. Many more ſuch Reflections are caſt up-
on him by the Monkiſh Writers, who hated him as
much for his Diſreſpect to their Order, as for his Vio-
lence and Oppreffion. He reign'd Eight Years, Eight
Months, and Twenty-fix Days, and was kill'd in the
Eleventh Year of Charlemagne, the Weſtern Emperor,
the Eleventh of Egbert, Firit Monarch of England, and
che Fifteenth of the Pontificate of Pope Leo III.
Stauratius, the late Emperor's Son, had been Croward
Stauratius
in his Facher's Life-cime, and therefore his Title to the
Palured
Succeſſion ſeem'd indiſputable.
He was dangerouſly 'Emperor.
wounded in the Fight with the Bulgarians, however he
made bis eſcape to Adrianople, where the few Officers
and Soldiers who ſurviv'd cbe Battel, and were not ta-
ken Priſoners, rendezvous’d. Here he was Proclaim'd
Emperor by the routed Army, with which the Princi.
pal Officers at Conſtantinople were not at all ſatisfy'd,
for Stauratius had already mewn his ill Difpofition, and
was as much hared as ever his Father had been. He
rency'd from Arianople by flow Marches, on Account
of
12
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. I.
.
bis Des-
A.D. of his Wounds, to Conftantinople, where he found a
Sila
ſtrong Party was form'd in favour of Michael, who
bad marry'd his Siſter Precopia : He was one of the
Officers that inſtigated Bardanes to rebel, whom he after-
wards deſerted, for which Nicephorus made him Curo-
palatus, or Mayor of the Palace, and gave him his
Daughter in Marriage. His Father Theophyla&tus, thé
Son of Rhangabe, was one of the Noblemen who con-
fpir'd againſt Irene, and being detected, was ſhav'd, and
thruſt into a Monaſtery. Michael, his Son, took the
Sirname of Rhangabe from his Grandfather, and was
preferr’d by Nicephorus to a Command in the Eaſtern
Michael
Rhangabe
Army. He was in the late Bartel, but eſcap'd in the
Rout ; and knowing his Brother-in-Law was become
sent and odious to the Romans, he haften'd to Conſtantinople to
Fortune. put in his Claim in Right of his Wife Precopia, if
Stauratius was laid aſide in the Succeſſion to the Impe-
rial Throne. When he arriv'd there, the Chief Per-
fons of the Empire caſt their Eyes upon him, and re-
ſolv'd to ſalute him Emperor ; to which they were the
rather induc'd, hearing Stauratius intended to reſign
Stauratius the Government to his Wife Theophania. Michael's Par-
de sves the
ty was fo Powerful, that his Brother-in-law left the
Imperial
Imperial Palace, and retir'd to Leontari : Upon which
Palace to Michael was Proclaim'd Emperor, and Solemnly
Michael.
Crown'd in the Church of St. Sophia by Nicephorus the
Patriarch, on the inth of O&tober. His Wife was alſo
Crown'd, together with his Son Theophylactus, Three
Days after. Michael took an Oath before the Imperial
Crown was put on his Head, that he would maintain
the Priviledges of the Church, and abſtain from Chriſtian
Blood : For the Romans were afraid of their Governors
ever ſince they were deceiv'd in Nicephorus. Staura-
tius was fut up in the Monaſtery of Braca, where he
dy'd of his Wounds, which could not be cur'd, the ith
812 of January following. He reigo'd Two Months and Fif-
teen Days; but his Dominion being ſo ſhort, and not
generally acknowledg’d, he is ſtruck out of the Liſt of
the Roman Emperors. His Wife Theophania had a Pen-
fion letrled upon her in the ſame Monaſtery of Braca,
where the liv'd, dy'd, and was bury'd in the Abbey
Church by her Husband.
Michael
Chap. I.
13
Michael T.
A. D.
812
Michael 1.
TH
HE new Emperor was very generous to the Pa-
triarch and the Clergy, for which Reaſon he has
a good Character in the Byzantine Hiſtories : He was
allo liberal in his Donations to the People ; he provided
for the Widows and Children of thoſe that periſh'd in
the late Wars, and began his Government to the general
Satisfaction of his Subjects: He ſent Ambaſſadors to
Charlemagne to renew the Peace which had been conclud-
ed between him and Nicephorus, and to propoſe a Mar-
riage between his Son Theophyla&tus and the Weſtern
Emperor's Daughter: The Succeſs of this Negotia-
tion is not known. Michael's Misfortunes probably pap
an end to it.
Having ſettled the Adminiſtration of the Publick Af-
fairs in the belt Order the Difficulty of the Times would
admit, he prepar'd for an Expedition againſt Crummus,
and ſent Leo," who join'd with him in Bardanes's Re-
volt, to oppoſe the Saracens. Leo defeated a Party of
the Infidels, killd Two Thouſand of them, and clear'd
the Provinces in Aſia, recovering the Booty they had
taken from the Romans, and taking more from them.
He then return'd to Conftantinople, and attended the
Emperor Michael to Bulgaria.
There had been a ſort of a Peace agreed on between
the Romans and Bulgarians, all Acts of Hoftilities were
to ceaſe, and every Thing remain in the ſame Srate it
was at the Emperor's Acceſſion to the Throne. Both
Princes waiting for an opportunity to enlarge and con-
firm this Peace, which otherwiſe was not like to be of
any long Daration. In the mean while fome of the
Roman Priſoners in Bulgaria made their Eſcape, and
Crummus demanded to have them ſent back, threatning
upon Refuſal of his Demands to invade the Empire
with a Mighty Army. Michael would have reltord the
Michael
Marches
Priſoners to prevent a new War, but the major part of
his Council were for juſtifying their Eſcape by Arms
againſt
Crummus
Crummus enrag'd at the Detention of the Captives, en-King of
ter'd the Roman Territories, and deltroy'd them with Bulgaria.
Fire
14
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
ba
A.D. Fire and Sword Michael rais'd an Army to repel the
812.
Barbarians, but his Soldiers committed ſo many Dil-
orders in their March through Thrace, that the Romans
deſpis d their Sovereign as a Man ignorant of the Mili-
tary Art and Diſcipline. Crummus adyanc'd as far as
Adrianople, having taken Debeltum and Meſembria.
Michael, to put a Stop to the Progreſs of his Arms,
offer'd him Battle near the City of Adrianople ; which
Crummus accepted of: The Greeks fed at the Onſet,
and abandon'd the Field to the Barbarians; whether
they were ſo diſcourag'd by their late Defeat that they
dar'd not look their Enemies in the Face, or whether
there was any Treachery in the Caſe, as is reported,
we cannor decide ; 'tis certain the Greeks were ſhame-
813
fully defeared the 22d of June 813. The Emperor
He is de himſelf Aed withi the relt, ſeeing it in vain to oppoſe
feated by the Torrent of Barbarians that bore down upon him.
the Bulga-He was extreamly grievd at the terrible Overthrow
rians. the Romans had receiv'd from the Bulgarians ; he per-
ceiv'd the Times were too difficult and too bad for a
Governor of his ealie Diſpoſition, that Lenity would
ruin the Empire, the Soldiers being by their Licentiouſ-
nefs render'd unfit for Service, and the Infolence of the
Commanders requir'd a Man of more Severity than he
to hold a ſtrict Rein over them. The Army were fond
of Leo, his General in the Eaſt, who, 'tis ſaid, drew
off with the Body he commanded in the Beginning of
the late Engagement, purpoſely that the Bulgarians
having the better of the Romans, their mean Opinion
of their unactive Emperor might be encreas'd, and his
own Merit and Valour be the more admird; for he
was known to be an active and intrepid Perſon, who
had been bred up to War, and was the only Man of
Quality whoſe Martial Virtues render'd him worthy
Leo, ac-
the Imperial Throne : Whether he treacherouſly left the
cups him Field or not, he imputed the Loſs of the Battel to the
of Negli- Emperor, whom he accus'd of Negligence and Cowar-
gence and dice, and his Misfortunes in Appearance made the Ac-
Cowardice: cuſation reaſonable. Though Michael was far from be-
ing a Coward, yer he was fo tender of his Subjects
Lives, that his Love of Peace was miſtaken for a Fear
of War. The unhappy Emperor ſeeing the Soldiery
were impos d upon by Leo and his factious Miſrepres
fentations
Chap. I. Michael 1.
!
ſentations of his Courage and Adminiſtration, and were A. D.
defirous to change their Sovereign, grew weary of a 813.
Dignity that could not be maintain'd without Trouble
and the Effuſion of Blood, and reſolv'd to reſign the
Imperial Power ; buc his Wife Precopia, and the Patri-
cians, who were glad to have a Monarch of his Piery
to reign over them, would not conſent to it ; eſpecially
his Wife Precopia, who told him, He ought rather to
die with his Sword in his Hand, than poorly part with
the Sovereignty. To pleaſe her and his Friends, he
continu'd the Government in his own Name; which
Leo, whom he had left to command in Thrace, under-
ftanding, he order'd his Party to ſet the Army more
againſt him, and repreſent to them the inevitable Ruin
which threatend the Roman Empire, while a Prince of
Michael's quiet andcareleſs Temper ſtill ſat on the Throne.
The Soldiers, who had been almoſt all engag'd, by Leo's
Faction, in his Intereſt, and expected that Michael would
have peaceably yielded up the Government to him, pro- Leo pron
claim'd Leo Emperor in the Camp. The Bulgarians claim
had raken Adrianople and ſeveral other Towns in Thrace.
Emperora
Michael foreſaw that if he diſputed with Leo by Arms
while the Enemy was in the Bowels of his Dominions,
the Romans muſt be exposid to be entirely deſtroy'd or
enſlav'd, and hoping that Leo would clear Thrace of the
Barbarians, who by the Defeat they had larely giv'n
him were become Maſters of great part of the Pro-
vince, reſolv'd to make no Reſiſtance to the Soldiers E-
lection of Leo; ſo he ſent him the Imperial Robe and
Crown, having reign'd One Year and almoſt Ten
Months. , The Patricians finding 'twas in rain to per-
ſuade him to continue the Sovereign Power in himſelf,
ſubmitted to Leo, and he was univerſally acknowledg'd
'Emperor.
Michael retir'd into a Monaſtery, took the Habit,
and was ſhorn. Leo order'd him to be remov'd from
the Convent, to which he retir'd to one in the Inland Michael
Prota,' where he liv'd the reſt of his Days. Precopia and thruft into
her Daughters were confin'd to the Monaſtery of Pha-a Monaftery
1. Theophilaetus her eldeſt Son, who had been Crown'd
wirh her, was alſo ſhut up in a Convent, and the new
Emperor was ſo Cruel, as to order him to be Caſtrated,
together with his Brother Nicetas, whom Leo thruſt in-
16
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
A. D. to the Monaſtery of Satyrus, from whence on the
813 Death of the Patriarch Methodius, Thirty Years after-
wards, he was taken and advanc'd to the Patriarchal
Chair, by the name of Ignatius, which he took with the
Habit. He was depos'd by Bardas, in the reign of
Michael III. and Photius put in his place. However
he was ſome time after reſtor'd to the Patriarchal
Throne, and dy'd in it in a good old Agè. He was
remarkable for his Piery, and is reckon'da Saint in the
Greek Calendar.
Leo the V.
.
L 30 Sirnam'd the Armenian, being in Poffeffion of
the Supreain Authority, went to Conſtantinople, and
was Crown'd on the rith of Fuly by the Pafriarch Nice-
phorus, in the Church of St. Sophia. He made the uſual
Alterations in the State on ſuch occaſions, all the Friends
of the lare Emperor were turn'd out of their Places, and
his own pur in their room ; among the reſt Thomas and
Michael Balbus, of whom we ſhall hear more in the
Courſe of this Hiftory. He then fer himſelf to recruit
his broken Army, and oppoſe the Bulgarians. Crim.
'mus left his Brother to Command a Body of Troops in
the Neighbourhood of Adrianople, and hoping to make
his advantage of his late Victory, and the Revolution
at Conſtantinople, march'd at the Head of a numerous
Army againſt the Romans, whom he ſoon forc'd to ſhut
Crummus themſelves up within the Walls of the Imperial City,
beſteges
and belieg'd them in it. He arriv'd before it fix Days
Conftanti- afrer Leo's Coronation ; he view'd the Ground from the
nople.
Palace of Blacherne to the Golden Gate, obſerv'd whar
part of the Wall lay moſt expos'd to his Affaults, and
where he might encamp with the molt Convenience;
bur hearing of the mighty Preparations thar Leo was
making to drive him farther off, his Courage ſomewhat
faild him. He made a vain Oftentation of his Power,
Celebrated the abominable Myſteries of his Religion in
fight of the Holy Ciry, as the Greeks cail'd it, and when
he found ewas in vain to pretend to make himſelf Ma-
Mer of the place by a formal Siege, he fent to offer
Peace
1
i
Chap. I.
Leo V.
17
Peace to Leo, or elſe to defy him to the Combat, bid. A.D.
ding him ſet up his Lance at the Golden Gate, which 813.
was a Ceremony us'd in thofe Days by Princes that
gave or took a Challenge ; bur Leo refus'd to hearken
to either of his Propoſals, and continuing to encreaſe
the number of his Troops, Crummus was apprehenſive
that he ſhould not be able to retreat ſo eaſily as he ad-
vanc'd. He admir'd the Strength and Beauty of the
City Walls, and the Order of the Army within it, which
he could ſee from an Eminence in the Neighbourhood,
and to deceive Leo, or to gain his Friendſhip once more,
fent Propoſals of Peace to him. In the frequent ad-
vances he made to view the Fortifications of the Place,
and defy the Romans, they diſcover'd where he us'd
to come moſt, and the Emperor order'd a Party to lie
in Ambuſh for him. But the Greeks coming out of their
Ambuſcade too ſoon, mift their blow, and
only ſlightly
wounded him
Crummik, enrag'd at this unfair Dealing, as he
term'd it, tho' every thing is fair againſt an Invader,
committed all manner of Cruelty and Wait in the
Neighbourhood, which he had hitherto forborn, and
burnt the Palace of St. Mamas in the Suburbs. He took
down ſeveral beautiful Statues that were without the
Walls, and carry'd them back with him to Adrianople ;
for perceiving that the number of the Inhabitants, and
the Gariſon, and the ſtrength of the Walls, render'd the
City invincible to him, he drew off before Leo was in He raiſes
a readineſs to attack him. When he arriv'd at Adrive the Sieger
nople, he Commanded the Inhabitants ſhould be remov'd
from thac City, and aſſign'd them dwellings on the other
fide of the Danube. Leo the Grammarian places the
Reduction of Adrianople after Crummus's return from
the Neighbourhood of the Imperial City. Oiher Au-
thors place thar Conqueſt ſoon after the Battle. Ha-
ving left a good Garriſon in the Cities be had Con-
querd, he return'd to Bulgaria to recruit his Forces,
which were diminiſh'd by continual Action.
In the following Year he again invaded the Rom.in $14.
Territories with a powerful Army of Bulgarians and
Servians. He met with liccle or no oppoficion till be ar-
riv'd again in the Neighbourhood of Conſtantinople,
where the Romans gave him Bartle, and in the begin-
C
ning
18
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
A. D. ning of the Engagement had the worſt of it: the Buta
814. garians preſently fell to plundering their Camp: Leo
who ſaw the Fight from a riſing Ground, perceiving the
Diſorder the Barbarians were in, charg'd them with a
He is de-Body of reſerve, rally'd his flying Troops, and gain'd
feated by a complear Victory.' The Romans made a dreadful
Leo.
ſlaughter of the Enemy, and took great numbers of them
Priſoners., Crummus himſelf fell in the Battle as ſome
Hiſtorians affirm, and that he was kill'd by the Em-
peror, having been firſt wounded and beaten off his
Horſe. This whole Relation varies from other, ac
counts, which have more of probability in them, and
are related in this manner; Crummus coming with his
Army into the Neighbourhood of Conſtantinople, plun-
der'd it, and loaded them with Boory: Leo hearing how
they were encumber'd with their Baggage, order'd his
Troops to fall upon them in their retreat, and the Ro-
mans taking them at this diſadvantage, entirely defeated
them, Crummus being flain in the Engagement. The
Greek Monks, who bore no good will to the Me-
mory of Crummus, write that he dy'd a miſerable Death
before the Battle, Blood iſſuing our at ħis Mouth, Noſe
and Ears, as a Judgement upon him, for his profaning
the Chriſtian Churches. Whether he dy'd in the Field
or in his Tent, is not ſo certain as that his Death put at
end to the Puigarian War, in which the Romans had been
frequently beaten, and their Territories waſted by the
Invaſions of the Barbarians.
The Saracens hearing of the Succeſs of Leo's Arms in
the Weſt, remain’d quiet in Aſia, and the Emperor ha-
ving by his Ambaſſadors renew'd and confirm'd the
Peace with the Weſtern Emperor Ludovicus Pius, had
leiſure to look into the Diſorders that had crept into the
Church and Stare during the late Troubles.
He abhorr'd the Idolatry of the Popiſh Church, and
reſolvd to abolith linage Worthip, which had gain'd
ground among the Creeks in the Reign of the Empreſs
irene. Among the reſt the Patriarch Nicephorus, who,
tho' a Laynian, wis advanc'd to the Throne of the
Conſtantinopolitan Church by Nicepliarus the Chancellor,
favour'd that abominable Practice of Adoring the Works
of Men's Hand: Encimus, Bimhop of Sardica, was
alſo for images, and thrle Dillops with other Prelates
were fent for by the Emperor, who told Nicephorus
This
1
Chap. I.
Leo V.
19
+
That he ſuppoſed he knew very well that the Adoration of A.D.
Images was decreed to be unlawful by the Council of Con-
814.
ftantinople, held in the Year 754. The Abbor of the Leoagainſt
Monaſtery of Studita undertook to defend the Patri- ImageWor-
arch's Cauſe; at which Leo was ſo enragd, that he ba.Ship.
niſh'd Nicephorus, Entimus, Theodorus Abbot of Studita,
Theophanes the Hiſtorian, and others, as Nicetas the
Eunuch, who was the reigning. Favourite under Irene,
and had been one of the chief Promoters of the Inno-
vation in the Greek Worſhip. Leo did not proceed to
theſe Extremities without good reaſon. He had not
only the Word of God, and the Decrees of the Decu-
menical Council of Conſtantinople on his Gide, but alſo
the Arguments of the beſt Greek Doctors, whom he
fummond to diſpute with the Image Worſhippers in his
preſence, attended by the Senate, the Patricians, and
the chief Officers of the Empire. The Idolaters had 815.
little to ſay for themſelves, beſides the Decree of Irene's
Packt-Synod for Images. But as Error is always more
obſtinate than Truch, and thoſe that maintain Hereſy
more outragious in its defence than the Orthodox, in
defending their Holy Doctrine; So theſe Prelates by
their inſolent and unreaſonable Anfwers provok d Leo
to deal by them as roughly as he did. Theodotus C:li-
tera was made Patriarch of Conftantinople, who in the
ſame Year held a Council in that City, by whom the
Worſhip of Images was again folemnly forbidden, and the
Decrees of the Heretical Synod of Nice ſummond by
Irene were abolith d. Leo publish'd the Decrees of this
IVhich is
Orthodox Synod of Conſtantinople, and all Images were
Cordennd
taken away from thoſe Churches wherein they were ſet
bу t Co4 77-
up. Such as kept any in their Houſes were perſecutedcil.
for it, and ſome pur to Death.
He is not to be vindicated for his Cruelty; however
Jer his Zeal for the extirpacing Idolatry proceed from
whatever Cauſe it would, 'twas commendable, cho' he
ought not to have ſuffer'd his Wrath to end in Blocd.
The Spirit of God rells us, That the Woman ſitting on
To the Aran
the Beaſt which is in Babylon, was drunk with the Clocd
of the Saints, and with the Blood of the Martyrs of Jeſus,
Rome the Myſtick Babylon, has for almoſt a thouſand
Years nurft the Beast that is ſpoken of, and her Filthi-
neſs fould deter all good Chriſtians' from the like
C 2
Abominations.
!
, علت زار ته
20
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap1
1
}
. I.
A. D. Aboininations. Hereſy may be deſtroy'd, and the He-
815. rericks ſuffer'd to live and repenr: Tho' the Latin Au-
thors are in the right to condemn Leo's Severity; their
Reaſons for it are wrong ; neither will his Cruelty in
this particular excule their railing at him eternally,
and confounding the Truth of Hiſtory with their Ma-
tice and Reſentment.
In the following Year Pope Leo the third dy'd, having
ſat in the Papal Throne Twenty Years : He was ſucceed.
ed by Stephen the Vth, who was made Pope without
the Emperor's conſent, which he excus'd to him,
and to obtain Pardon, took a Journey into France,
where he Crown'd Ludovicus Pius, or Leppis the iſt,
Charlemagne's Son at Rheims. This Prince being a Big-
got to the Roman See, ſuffer'd the future Popes to
follow Stephen's Example: And thus thoſe uſurping Pre-
Iates got one Privilege more of their Temporal Princes.
Stephen enjoy'd his Dignity ſcarce Eight Months, and
then dying, Paſchal was choſen Pope in his room; be
fent Ambaffadors to Leo to require the reſtoration of
Image-Worſhip in the Eaſt. The Emperor diſdain'd
the Meſſage and the Meſſengers, looking on their Ma-
ſter as an Uſurper. Paſchal to revenge the Affront, Ex.
LEO Ex- communicated him, and receiv'd all the Greek Refugees
couamuri, who came to Rome very graciouſly. This Pontiff is ac-
sited by the cus'd for ordering two of the Emperor's Servants to be
Fope.
affalfinared, but Lewis rook his own Oath as a ſufficient
proof of his Innocence.
Notwithſtanding allebe Machinations that were formid
by Leo's Foreign and Domeſtick Enemies to deſtroy
him, He reign'd gloriouſly for ſeveral Years, till his
ſuſpicion of Michael, Grnam'd Balbus from his lifping,
involv'd him in the Troubles, that put an end to his
Dominion with his Life. Michael had been his old
Friend and Fellow Soldier, and on thar account Leo ada,
vanc'd him to the Command of his Guards, in which
Poft he gain'd many Perſons of Quality to his Intereſt,
eſpecially thoſe that had ſuffer'd by the perſecution of
the image.Worfzippers, whoin Michael ſeem'd to pity;
purpoſely to render Leo the more Cruel, and to affect
a compaſſionate Temper, which was not his Character.
'Twas Diffimulation all, and as ſoon as he had it in his,
Power he thew'd himſelf as great an Enemy to Images
+
23
Chap. I
Leo V.
21
en
2
as ever Leo had been. The Emperor had long mi- A. D.
ſtruſted that he was carrying on Deſigns againſt his So. 8159
vereignty, and having information of a Conſpiracy
in which Michael was concern'd, he order'd him to be
apprehended and brought to his Tryal, and he was
Convicted, and Condemn'd to be burn on Chriſtmas Michael
Eve in the Year 820, Leo would have had him execu- Balbuscane
demn'd 10
ted the very next Day, but Theodora the Empreſs ear-
neſtly entreated him to defer the Execution one Day; be burnt,
in conſideration of the Feſtival, which he unwillingly
comply'd with. In the mean while Michael found means
to write to the Accomplices of his Treaſon, that if they
did not make halt to deliver him, he would diſcover
them. The Conſpirators allarm'd at his Threats, took
Arms, and array'd like the Prieſts of the Imperial Chap-
pel in White Linnen Garments, went to the Palace in
the Night, and were let in by the Mayor of the Pala.
çes Deputy, who was related to Michael. Leo wasthen
at Chappel ſinging the Service of the Night, Preparatory
to the approaching Feſtival, with his Prieſts. The Conſpi-
rators fell upon him amidſt his Devotions, and cur him
to Leo Niin
pieces the 25th of December, in the Year 821. accord-by Micha ,
ing to the Calculation of thoſe Hiſtorians, who rec-el's Friends,
koning the Five and Twentieth of Deceinber to be the
firſt Day of the Year, which was the uſual way of Cal-
culating by the Writers of thoſe Times. Having ſeen
him breath his laſt, the Affaffins went to the Priſon
where Michael was confin'd, ſet him at liberty, and
plac'd the Imperial Crown on his Head. Leo's dead
Body was wrapr up in a courſe Cloth, and ſent to the
I and Prota, to be bury'd in the Abbey.Church. He
had four Sons by his Wife Theodora the Daughter of
Arſavire, a Patrician and Queftor, Sabbatius the eldeſt, who
had been honour'd with the Title of Emperor, Bifilius,
Gregorius, and Theodofius, whom Michael order'd to be
Caltrated, Shay'd and put up in a Monaftery. T!:00-
dozus the youngeſt dy'd of the Wounds be receiv'd in
the Catration, and was bury'd with his father, who
reigo'd Şeven Years, five Months and fourteen Days,
and was murder'd in the Seventeenth Year of Lidivirus
the Weſtern Emperor, the Twenty firit of Egbert King
of England, and the Fourth of the Portificate of Pope
Paschal the iſt, A. D. 821.
C3
Michael
821.
is
22
Chap. I.
The Roman Hiſtory.
I
Michael II.
1
A.D. THE great Revolution that happend in Michael's
Fortune, who from a Dungeon was led to the Im-
Michael
perial Throne with the Fetters about bis Legs, the Con-
Proclrin'd
Emporor.
Ipirators nor being able to get them off foon enough to
ſatisfy their Impatience to ſee him feated there, was
more the Subject of Peoples Wonder than their Ap-
plauſe. Leo had govern'd the Empire with great Pru. :
dence and Succeſs: The Greeks for the generality ap-
prov'd of his Severity to the Image-Worſhippers, and
few lik'd the manner of Loo's Death, and Michael's Ad-
vancement; but all thar favour'd Images cry'd up the
New Emperor as the Choſen of the Lord for their Deli-
verance, and promis'd to the Empire innumerable
Bleſſings from the Reign of ſo Brave and Virtuous a
Prince.
As they flatter'd him, ſo he cajold them at firſt, he con-
deſcended to be Crownd by the Patriarch Theodorus,
but he recall'd all the Prelates his Predeceſſors had ba-
niſh'd ; a hor way of proceeding of Comne Princes, who
our of Jealouſy to the Memory of their Predeceſſors, undo
every thing they did before them, tho' they often find
themſelves oblig'd to return to the ſame method of Ad-
miniaration, as well for their Security as Glory: Mi-
chael thus in a very little while fent all the Biſhops and
$23
others he had recallid, into Baniſhment again, and was
as violent againſt the Heretical Idolaters, as Leo had
ever been : For which he is repreſented to us by the
Latin Hiſtorians as a Man of no Religion. He was
born in Amorium, a City in Phrygia, which was inha- ;
bited by Jews, Sabeans and Monothelite Herericks,
nur of whoſe Principles there role a medly of Religion,
that had ſomewhat of all in it; and with this 'cis ſaid Mi-
chael was infected.
Theſe Sabeans were a Sect of Heathens, who own'd
no Divinity but the Sun and Stars; they were originally
Chaldeans, and Morrery ſays Abraham was bred up ira
this Religion, till the Holy Spirit reveal'd to him the
Divine Truphs, and enlighten'd his Mind with the know,
ledge
!
1
Chap. I.
23
Michael II.
2
edge of the true God, after which he oppos'a the Era A. D.
rors of his Countrymen with great Vehemence and Suc- $24.
ceſs. The Monothelites were a ſort of Chriſtians, who
held There is but one ſingle Operation of the Will of
Feſus Chriſt. This Hereſy was juſtify'd by a Council
in the Reign of Phillippicus: We need not give an AC-
count of the Opinions of the Jews. From theſe three
Religions, if they deſerve that Sacred name, Michael
form'd one to himſelf, which he endeavour'd to Pro-
pagate, if we may give Credit to the Hiſtorians of that
Age; but as we have obſery'd, choſe Writers were moſt
of them engag‘d on the ſide of Image Worſhip, and con-
ſequently are to be fupected when they ſpeak ill of
thoſe thar oppos'd their Idolatry, as Michael did ; they
repreſent him as a Man of no Religion, they charge
him with marrying Euphroſyne, a Nun, Daughter of
Conftantine, Son of Irene ; with depoling the Patriarch
Theodorus Caffiutera, and placing one Anthony, a Man of
his own confus'd Principles, in the Patriarchal Chair,
and paint him as one of the moſt Lewd Perſons in the
World, both in his Faith and Morals, impuring all the
Lofres and Calamities that the People ſuffer'd in his
Reign to the Wickedneſs of his Life, which call'd down
the Divine Vengeance on the Head of the Emperoi
' ;
who beldes his hatred to the Purity of the Chri.
ftian Faith, was, they tell us an Enemy to the Arts
and Sciences.
He ſent Ambaſſadors to Ludovicus Pius, and inſtructed
chem to vindicate the Reflections that had been cait up.
on him for his Heterodox Notions ; 'sis ſaid they care
ry'd a Confeffion of Faith with them, wherein ine pro,
feſt to believe all the Articles of the Chriftian Religion
and Worſhip, the matter of Images excepted ; he fofi-
ned his diffention in this point, pretending, He remou'd
them out of the Churches to prevent the Idolatry of the
Rabble, who were apt to pay Divine Honours to thein.
The Ambaſſadors were order'd to call at Rome, and
pay a Complement to the Pope in his Name. The Pope
reſenting the ill uage the Worhippers of Idols mer wich
under the Emperor Micbael, was very fullen co the Am-
baffadors ; however Lewis the Weſtern Emperor raking
no notice of his Behaviour to the Eaſtern Idojaiers,
concluded a League between the two Empires, and
a 127
1
C
l
مر
24
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
A
A.D. a Year or two after a Council at Paris Condemn'd
824. Images, for which they are themſelves condemnd by
Bellarmine and Baronius, and the Popiſh Authors hard-
ly allow them a place in the Liſt of their Coun-
cils.
The Differences between the ſeveral Parties in the
Roman Empire tempted Thomas, who Commanded the
Army in Aſia, to ſide with one of them in oppoſition to
Michael. He was a Man of obſcure Birth, who by
his Valour roſe to a Principal Command in the Army
under Nicephorus the Chancellor ; Leo the late Emperor,
and Michael now Reigning were his Companions in the
Wars. They converſt frequently together, and one Day
we are told, they met a Hermit, who prophecy'd thaç
two of them, meaning Leoand Michael ſhould be advanc'd
to the Imperial Throne, and Thomas for attempting it
thould periſh. Thomas not minding the Prediction,
perceiving that Michael had loſt the good Opinion of
many of his Subjects, and that the Soldiery were very
much in his Intereſt, reſolv'd to aſſume the Imperial
Title and Ornaments, as well to revenge the Murder
of Leo, who had been kind to him, as to better his Con-
dition: He declar'd his Intentions to the Forces in Aſia,
Thomas was faluted Emperor by them, and all the Eaſtern Pro-
Salured Em- vinces ſubmitting to him, he paſt the Streights at the
peror. Head of a prodigious Multitude of Malecontents, ha-
ving been firſt Crown'd by Job, Patriarch of Antioch,
and oblig'd the Saracens by force of Arms to join with
him. He perſwaded the Officers of Michael's Fleet,
part by Promiſes and part by Threats, to deliver up
the Imperial Navy to him, with which he belieg'd Con-
Conftanti-ſtantinople by Sea, while his nunerous Army encompaft
Conftanti and aſfáulted it by Eand.
nople.
Michael ſeeing the terrible Storm thar hung over his
Head, was ſo far from being diſcourag'd, that the great-
nes of the Danger ſerv'd to encreaſe his Vigilance and
Relolution in his Defence. The Citizens animated by
his Example, made a Reſiſtance that was truly Roman;
they ſally'd frequently on the Beliegers, and came off
victoriouſly. Thomas ffay'd ſeveral Months before the
City, and got no ground : At laſt the Winter Seaſon ap-
proaching, bis, Ships were moſtly rụin'd by Teme
peſts,
Chap. I.
25
Michael II.
8243
peits, and Michael
, provided a Fleet ſtrong enough to A. De
deſtroy the remainder.
In the mean while Mortagon King of the Bulgarians, to
make bis advantage of the Civil War in the Empire,
invaded the Roman Territories., Thomas finding he could
not reduce the Imperial City by force, to engage the
Romans to accept of him for their Sovereign, left the
Siege and march'd againſt Motagon, by whom he was
defeared, and his Camp and Baggage taken: As this
leſſen'd his ſtrength, ſo it rais'd the hopes of Michael and
his Friends, who reſolv'd when he return'd to the Siege,
which he did with the remains of his Army, to meeç
him and give him Battle, in which the Uſurper was
again defeated. He could not recover this blaſt over-
throw; ſo he retir'd to Adrianople, where the Inhabi-
tantants ſeiz'd him, and carry'd him to Michael, who
order'd him to ſuffer all manner of Indignities and Tor-
rents. When he had ſatisfy'd his Cruelty and Re. He is taken
and Excite
yenge, he commanded that his Arms and Legs ſhould
ted.
be cut off, and then that he ſhould be hang d.
While the Romans were harraſt by chele Inteſtine
Commotions, the Infidels always watchful to make their
Advantage of the Diviſions among Chriſtians, invaded
the Iſland of Crete ; their Leader landed on the Promon-
tory Charax, and burnt his Ships, to take away all
hopes of retreat from bis Followers. They made them-
felves Maſters of all the open Country, and having rou-
Jed and kill'd Damianus the Roman General, whom
Michael had ſent to the affiftance of the Inanders, the
Towns ſubmitted to them. They built a City near a Tle Sara-
Commodious Haven, they call'd it Candia, and that cens take
name in time became general to the whole Iſland, be- Crete.
ing what 'tis known by to this Day. The Emperor
ſent Craterus with another Army to recover Crete; the
Romans fought and defeated the Saracons, and thinking
the Victory had put an end to the War, they gave
themſelves a looſe to Rior and Debauchery. The In-
fidels being inform'd that they were all drunk or aſleep
In their Camp, fell upon them and cut them io pieces.
Craterus got aboard a ſmall Vefſel and fails to Coos,
where he was ſurpriz'd by the Saracens, and Crucify'd.
Michael deſpairing of reconquering the Illand, conten-
ied himſelf to reſtrain the Piracies of the Privateers that
hasbcur'd
26
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. I.
A. D. harbour'd there, and it remain'd in poffeffion of the
224. Infidels till the Reign of Nicephorus Phocas, Anno
960.
The loſs of Crete was follow'd by that of Sicily, which
happen'd in this manner. The ill Example Michael had
ſer his Subjects in taking a Nun out of a Monaſtery to
marry her, incourag‘d Euphemius, a Man of great In-
tereſt and Power in Sicily to do the ſame. The Bro ,
thers of the Virgin complain'd to the Emperor, who
order'd his Governour in Sicily to enquire into the
fact, and if it was true to cut off the Criminal's Noſe :
Euphemius hearing what was intended againſt him, ftood
on his Guard, and repulſed the Governour when he
came to apprehend him; but knowing he was not
Itrong enough to reſiſt an Army, which he was ſure
would be ſent to reduce him, he fled to Africk, offer.
ing the Saracens to deliver up the land to them, if:
they would Proclaim him Emperor, and ſuffer him to
govern it as their Tributary.' The Saracens readily
conſented to his Propoſal, lent him Troops to ſubdue
the places that held out againſt him, and Proclaim'd
him Emperor. When he landed in Sicily he march'd
to Syracuſe ; when he came near the Walls, he ſpoke to
thoſe that defended them, to perſwade them to join with
him and ſurrender the City. He obſerv'd that two of
them who were Brothers ſeem'd to liſten to him with
more artention than the reſt, which giving him cauſe to
believe thar they lik'd his Diſcourſe, he beckond to
them to come to him, and advanc'd from his Guards to
meet and ſalute them : When they were come up near
enough to him to take hold of him, one of them ſeiz'd
him by the Hair, and the other cut off his Head.
jhe Roman However the Saracens having gor footing on the Illand,
Emperor would not leave it. They ſent for Reinforcements from
Boles Sicily Africa, made themſelves Maſters of it, ſetled Emirs or
and Italy. Governours at Palermo, who conquer'd Calabria and Po-
uilla on the Continent of Italy, and held it till Robere
and Roner Guichard took both Calabria, Pouilla, and si.
cily fr. chem in the Year 1070. Two Hundred and
Forty Three Years afterwards. The Roman Emperors
never had any future ſertled Dominion over them, and
were alriven out of Italy Five Hundred Years after the
seinoval of the Imperial Seat to Confiantinople.
AT
827.
1
S
32
Chap. I.
Theophilus.
27
Ar the ſame time that the Infidels conquer'd Crete A. D,
and Sicily, others of them reduc'd the Iſlands of Delos, 827.
Paros, Andros Naxia, and all the Cyclades in the
Archipelago. Theſe Misfortunes, if we may believe
Cedrenus a Greek Monk, who wrote in the Eleventh
Century, were ſo many Judgments on Michael for his
perfecuting the Image Worſhippers, whom the Greek and
Latin Hereticks abſurdly call Orthodox: Leo Gramma-
ticus, who wrote before the Greeks were become ſo low
as to ſtoop to the Roman Pontiff, and embrace his Su-
perſtition, ſays, Theſe Calamites were a Puniſoment on
the People for their Sins, and on the Prince for his Im-
pities." Yer Leo was a Friend to Images, but the Gram-
marian was more modeſt and charitable than the Monk.
Michael in the midſt of the Trouble that he was in for the
loſs of his Provinces, was taken ill of a Dyſentery,
of which he dy'd, or as
other Authors write, of a The Death
Stranguery, the ift of O&ober, 829.. Having, reignd of Micha
Eight Years, Nine Months and Six Days. Theophilis el.
his eldeſt Son by Theicla, Daughter of a Captain, under 829.
whom he had ſerv'd in the War, ſucceeded him in the
Imperial Throne , to the general Joy of the Ro-
mans,
1
Theophilus.
T! HE Latin Authors were at a Loſs in the Chara-
cter of this Prince ; his Clemency, Juſtice, and
Valour were ſo conſpicuous, that when they could not
tell how to blacken him, though they would feign have
done it for his Averhon to Images, as they did his
Predeceſſor, they condemn'd him by a poor Conjeckure,
that he did his good Actions as much out of Policy as
Virtue. An un-fair and weak way of Arguing, which
would be unworthy any better Cauſe than that of Super-
ftition and Idolatry. He began his Reign with an extraor-
dinary inſtance of his Juſtice ; for tho' by the Death of
Leo his Father mounted from a Priſon to a Throne, and he
himſelf confequently enjoy'd the Imperial Dignity by
the Means of Thole Alfaffins that murder'd L
Teſoly’d to puniſh them; and having exhibited the
Horſe-
yer he
28
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. I.
A.D. Horje-Games in the Circus, he commanded Leo Comoera-
829. con, Protoveſtiary, or Maſter of the Wardrobe, to
bring him a Sconce that had been broken by a Blow
of one of the Aſſaſſins at the Time when they aſſaulted
the Emperor ; he then ſent for the Murderers and o-
ther Courriers to attend him at the Palace of Magnau-
va; where when they were Aſſembled, he ſpoke to
them gravely thus ; My Father, when he was living, in-
tended to diſtinguiſh thoſe that had been Inſtrumental in
bis Promotion with particular Marks of bis Favour, and
I think it my Duty to perform his Intention ; wherefore
I deſire all thoſe who have any Pretences to Reward on that
Account to withdraw into another Room, where I will ex-
amine the Merit of each perſon, and according as he de-
ſerves advance him. The Affaffins preſently diſcover'd
themſelves; and when they were withdrawn, he ſhew'd
the Sconce that had been broken by them to the Sena-
tors and others that remain'd in his Preſence, asking
them What thoſe deſerv'd that had killed the Lord's A-
nointed in the Church? They all anſwer'd, To die. Then
the Emperor Commanded the Prefect to ſeize the
Theophi. Murderers, and cut off their Heads. The Aſſaſſins
Lus puniſhes complain'd aloud of the Injuſtice done them, reproach-
the Mure ing him to his Face, that he would
not have
been on
derers of the Throne, had they not affilted his Father. The Em-
For Lec. peror rook no Notice of their Reproaches, but puniſht
them according to their Deſerts," for killing their so-
vereign and profaning the Church. He order'd all I.
mages, where ever they were found, to be toren to
pieces, or bury'd under Ground, and threaten'd to put
all Painters and Sculptors to Death that for the future
ſhould dare to repreſent any Divine Figure. Maimburg
a Modern French Author, infamous for Fictions and
Falfiries, affirms this Emperor made John Patriarch,
who mas ą famous Magician, with whom he exercis’d
that damnable Art : But this Writer being e'n Faiſeur
de Romans, as one of his Countrymen calls him, we
may ſuppoſe that this is ſomewhat of his own Invention,
as well as other Fables that he tranſmits to Poſterity for
Truth. We shall ſee how this Emperor behaves him-
felf in his other Actions, which will be the beſt Way
to confure thar Romancer in his Hiſtory of the Iconocla.
ftes, or linage-Breakers,
Theophilus
Ghap. I.
29
Theophilus.
Theophilus ſent Euphroſyne back to the Monaſtery in A. Dy
the Princes INand, where ſhe had been bred, and ap 829.
ply'd himſelf with Zeal and Diligence to redreſs the
Grievances of his People ; an Inſtance of which is re-
lated by Leo Grammaticus : A Widow coming to him
to the Palace of Blacherne, and complaining that Pa-
tronas, the Empreſs Theodora's Brother, had built his
"Houſe ſo bigh, that it ſtope up the Lights of hers. and
made it ſo dark he could not live in it : Theophilus or- An Inſtance
der'd the Queftor to view the Houſes, and report the of his F1.
Matter to him: The Queftor confirming the Widow's ftice.
Complaint, the Emperor commanded that Patronas,
though he was his Wife's Brother, and Captain of his
Night-Guards, ſhould be whipe in the open Street, his
Houſe pull'd down, and the Ground giv’n to the Wi-
dow.
His youngeſt Daughter, the Princeſs Mary, he mar-
ry'd to Alexius Mofeles, an Armenian by Nation, who
was one of the Handſomeft young Gentlemen in the
Empire ; he created bim Proconful, and ſoon after Ce-
Jar, having then no Son born. He ſent him with an
Army to recover Calabria and Sicily; where he be-
hav'd himſelf with equal Conduct and Courage ; but
the Saracens had got ſuch firm Fooring there, the Roman
Power could not diſlodge them. Some Courtiers, who
envy'd Alexius's Advancement, endeavour'd to ruin
him with the Emperor, by repreſenting to him, that
there was an Old Prophecy which foretold, A ſhould
depoſe Th. Aslong as Mary, his Wife, liy'd, Alexius did
not ſuffer much by their. Inſinuations and Miſrepreſenta-
tions, but after that Princeſs's Death the Emperor was
prevail'd with to confine him and his Brother Theodo-
fius, whom he had made a Patrician, to the Monaſtery
of Anthemius. Theopbobus, who had marry'd the Em-
peror's Siſter Helena, ſucceeded bim in his Favour and
Commands. He was the Natural Son of a Perſian Am-
baſſador, deſcended from the Kings of Perſia, but born
and bred up at Conſtantinople; yer he was ſo belov'd by
his Nation, that the few of them who were not con.
quer'd by the Saracens, fent to Theophilus to delire he
would let him come and reign over them ; but the Ema
peror would not part with him: For beſides that he had
a great Eiteem for him, the Parfians were ſo fond of hirr
for
30
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap 1
A. D. for his Relation to their Royal Family, that they came
833. in great Numbers, and liſted in the Emperor's Service
to Fight under him againſt the Saracens : Nor was the
Emperor's Love of Theophobus without good Reaſon, for
in the Firſt Expedition he undertook againſt the Infidels,
the Romans were entirely routed, and only Theophobus
and 2000 Perſians ſtood by him to the laſt; the Night
Theophi. ended the Combat, and Theophobus order'd his Men to
lus defear thout and make a great Noiſe, as if they had been rein-
ted by the
forc'd. The Saracens believing their Acclamations
Saracens.
were really for Joy of the Succours they had receiv'd,
march'd off, and left the Emperor Room to make his
Retreat, for which Service he became univerſally be-
lov'd by the Romans, as he was favour'd and honour'd
Leo Gram.
• by the Emperor. A Greek Author gives us a quite dif-
ferent Account of the Sincerity of cheſe Perſians, though
he ſpeaks honourably of their Leader, and affirms, that
had it not been for Manuel, Theophilus's General in the
Eaſt, they would have betray'd him to the Saracens.
834.
In the following Year the Infidels, incourag‘d by
their late Succeſs, invaded the Empire with a Nume-
rous Army. Theophilus paſt the Streights to oppofe
them, and wanting nor Courage, though Fortune was
nor on his Side, he gave them Bartle, and was over-
thrown. The Emperor ſeeing the Victory declar'd for
the Saracens, join'd with the Perſians who had fav'd
him the laſt Year, hoping by their Valour and Fideli.
ty
to be brought off again now. Manuel underſtanding
the Perſians intended to deliver him up to the Enemy, to
make their Peace with them by char Means, broke thro'
Again de
their Ranks, took hold of the Bridle of Theophilus's
feated.
Horſe, and was leading it away. The Emperor per-
fifted in his Reſolution to Pay with the Perſians, and
would have turn’d his Horſe about ; upon which Ma-
nuel, pointing his sword to his Breaſt, threatend to
kill hiin, unleſs he would follow him, ſaying, the State
would luffer more in his Captivity than in his Death. By
this Bold and Loyal Menace he oblig'd him to leave
the Perſians, and go with him to Dorfleum, where he
was ſafe. The Reputation Manuel acquird by deli-
vering the Emperor was ſo great, that 'twas enough
for le Court-Flaircrers to infinuate he aim'd by bis Po.
pularity at the Sovere go? Power; and 'tis ſaid the Em,
peror
1
Chap. I.
31
Theophilus.
peror us’d him ſo ill, that he deſerted to the Saracens ;
A.D.
but Leo places his Defertion to the Infidels before he $34.
fav'd the Emperor, and that leffens the Charge of In-
gratitude in Theophilus.
He writes that Manuel being accus'd of conſpiring
againſt the Emperor, Leo the Protoveſtiary defended
him to Theophilus; but Manuel fearing the Calumnies
of bis Enemies would at laſt prevail, withdrew ſecretly
to the Saracens, The Emperor pretending to ſend an
Ambaſſador to treat with them about the Redemption
of Priſoners, order'd John, Syncellus or Dean of the
Patriarchal Church, to manage that Affair; Syn-
tellus perſuaded Manuel to return ; and the latter, who
had been ſerviceable to the Infidels in their Wars while
he was among them, declared, that if the Sultan would
allow him Troops and his Son to accompany bim, he
would Conquer the Roman Territories in Afia. He
departed with the young Prince and the Army for the
Frontiers of the Empire ; when he arriv'd there, he
drew the Sultan's Son aſide, as if he had a Mind to
Hunt; when he was got far enough from the Army, hc
embrac'd the young Prince, and told him, I am going
into my own Country, if you pleaſe you may return to your
Troops, and let them know, that though I left you, I did
jou no Harm. The Prince wich Tears in his Eyes took
Leave of him, and then march'd his Forces back into his
Father's Dominions. Manuel, as ſoon as he far Foot on
the Roman Ground, gave the Emperor Notice of his
Arrival ; and he was fo glad of it, that he liberally re-
warded the Meſſenger; he receiv'd him very Graciouf-
ly, made him Grand Domeſtick, and ſtood Godfather General of
to his Son.
his armies,
He then undertook an Expedition againſt the Sara.
cens, accompany'd by Manuel
, took the Cities of 24-
patra and Samoface, and returnd loaden with Booty.
He enter'd Conſtantinople in Triumph, Celebrated the
Games of the Circus, appear'd array d in Purple in a
Chariot drawn by White Horſes, and was the Firſt
that Combated, the People ſhouting cry'd out, Mıy the
Return of the Conqueror be as Happy as his Arms were $1.
ceſsful! By Leo's Relacion Manuel dy'd of the Wounds
he receiv'd in the Barile when he led off the Emperor ;
erlich
$
32
The Roman Hiſtory:
Chap. I.
A. D. which confirms his Report, that his Deſertion was prior
834. to his Threarning and Saving his Maſter.
The Saracens, to fhew that they wanted nor Manual
el's Alfinance, nor were diſhearten'd by the few Cities
they had loſt, made an Incurốion into the Empire. A
gainſt whom Theophilus ſent his Brother-in-law, Then.
phobus : For it ſeems the Perſians had not yet ſhewn
their Perfidiouſneſs; on the contrary they were entruſt-
ed ſo far, thar Thirty Thouſand of them were receiv'd
into the Emperor's Pay. Theſe Foreigners finding they
were too ſtrong for the Romans in the Eaſt, reſolv'd to
force Theophobus to reign not only over them, but over
the Romans themſelves : They accordingly ſeiz'd his
Theopho-Perſon at Sirupe in Paphlagonia, and proclaim'd him
bus Pro. Emperor; which Dignity he ſeem'd to accept of, till he
claim'dem-had an Opportunity to eſcape. He then went to con
peror by the ftantinople; and having before giv'n Theophilus Affu-
Perſians.
rance that what he did was by Compulfion, and that
he would repair thither as ſoon as poſſible, be was re-
ceiv'd, with extraordinary Honours by the Emperor.
The Perſians diſcourag'd by the Abdication of their
They ſub- Leader, begg'd Theophilus's Pardon; which he granted:
mit to the However he diſpers'd them up and down, by Two Thou.
Emperor. fand in a Body, in ſeveral Places, to prevent their ac-
tempting the like Miſchief for the future.
The Confuſion that theſe Diſorders made in the Eaſt,
incourag'd the Saracens to invade the Empire with a
Prodigious Army. Accordingly they enter'd Phrygia,
and attackt Amorium ; but the Inhabitants making
vigorous Defence, the Emperor had Time to raiſe For-
ces to relieve it: Tho' his Troops were far inferior in
Number to the Infidels , he gave Battle, and was once
inore defeated by the Saracens. Some Authors write
’rwas in this Barrle that Manuel, who underſtood the
Porfinn Language, over-heard Two Perſians talking
abou betraying che Romans to the Barbarians, and that
he prevaild with him to recreatăto Chiliocomium. The
Lois of this Engagement was follow'd by that of Amorio
um, wbich forics vigorous Defence was deſtroy'd by the
Saracens, tº revenge che Death of their Braveſt Troops
who periſht before it, and the Deftruction of Zapatra,
which City Theophilus had levelld with the Ground in
the Expedition whercin he took thar Town and Samo.
Jace
I
Chap. I.
33
Theophilus.
2
Jace. The Sultan was born in Zapatra, and ſent to the A.D.
Emperor to deſire him to ſpare the Place, in Conſide- 840.
ration of its being that of his Birth. Theophilus would
not hearken to his earneſt Requeſt, but deſtroy'd it :
And the Sultan to revenge the Affront, reſolv'd to do
the ſame by Amorium, the Place where the Emperor
was born.
The Barbarian to that end invaded the
Empire ; and to ſew his Reſentment, order'd the
Word Amorium to be written on the Soldiers Bucklers,
to ſignifie that he would ſacrifice that Town to the Me-
mory of Zapatra: Which he did accordingly when he
was Maſter of it, reducing it to a Heap of Ames. Se-
veral Men of Quality that were taken in the Citadel,
were carry'd away into Captivity ; as Theodorus, a Pa.-
trician, Ætius, and others.
The Revolt of the Perſians, and their proclaiming
Theophobus Emperor, had giv'n Theophilus an incurable
Jealouſie of his Brother-in-Law; and fearing he might
diſturb his Son's Government when the Empire devolv'd
to him, be held Council with his Friends, to conſider
how the Danger he feard and foreſaw might be pre. Theopho-
yented : 'Twas unanimouſly agreed that Theophobus bus put to
fhould be put to Death. He was arreſted in a Vault Deaiko
where he had hid himſelf, and carry'd to the Palace,
where Patronas, the Empreſs's Brother, and the Chan-
dellor, cut off his Head. The Emperor was ſick and
on his Death. bed when theſe crucl Counſels took effeét.
The Latin Authors, for the Reaſons we have giv'n,
write, that he commanded the Head of Theophobus to
be brought to him, and, weak as he was, did bis ut.
moſt to hold it up by the Hair, ſaying, Though I ſhall
foon be no more, I am pleas’d to ſee that thou art jo before
me. He perſecuted Theophanes the Poer, and Theodorus,
his Brocher, cruelly for worſhipping Images and per-
Glting in their Idolatry. Theophanes ſurviv'd his Tor-
ments, and was made Arch. Biſhop of Nice in the next
Reign ; but Theodorus dy'd of the Wounds he receiv'd
from his Tormentors. He is reckon'da Saint in the
Legend of the Roman Church. Theſe two lalt Auti. Theophie
ons of the Emperor are not to be juſtify'd ; bur the man lustis
ny Conſpiracies that had been forin'd againſt his fa- Death.
her and him, and the Obſtinacy of the Idolaters in his
Dominions, had four'd his Temper in the latter part of
his
34
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. T.
}
A. D. his Life, and made it incline to Cruelty. He dy'd of
840. a Dyſentery, the 20th of January, in the Thirteenth
Year of his Reign ; the Firſt Year of Lotharius, the
Weftern Emperor ; the Fifth of Ethelwolfe, King of
England; and the Fourteenth of the Pontificate of the
842. wicked Pope Gregory IV. A. D. 842.
Anil Chao The Character of this Emperor in his latter Days in-
toller. clin'd to Severity ; and 'tis ſomewhar excuſable, be-
cauſe that Severity was generally exercis'd in doing Ju.
ftice, of which he was a rigid Obſerver. We ſhall
give one Inftance more of it, and ſo leave the Reader to
form a Judgment of him by his Hiſtory.
One Day, as he was riding to his Palace of Blacher-
ne, there came a Man up to him, and ſaid, Sir, that
is my Horſe which you ride on. The Emperor holding it
by the Bridle, turn'd about to his Gentleman of the
Horſe, and askt ro whom it belongd : The Man cry'd,
To me; that Lord took it away from me by Force, and ne.
ver paid me any thing for it: The Emperor demanded
of his Gentleman of the Horſe if the Fact was true, and
why he did not pay for it before he ſent it to him? The
Lord anſwer'd, The Fellow would have had a Poft in your
Life.Guards for it, and becauſe I did not know whether he
mas a Man of Courage or not, I offer'd him a Hundred
Crowns for his Horſe, which he refus'd. The Emperor
inquiring into the Matter, and finding it to be true, pu-
nith'd the Lord for it, and would have reſtor'd the
Horſe to the Owner, but he would not take it, ſo he
had a larger Sum for's; and being by Theophilus's ,
Command admitted into his Guards, was killed in his
Service,
}
1
1
}
Michael III.
i
1
T
HE late Emperor had orderd his Son Michael to
be Crown'd before his Death, at which Time he
left the Regency to his Wife Thendora, not knowing
how inveterate ſhe was to the Purity of the Chriſtian
Religion, and how zealous for the Cauſe of Images.
Some Authors write, that Manuel, whom we had Oc.
calion to ſpeak of in the laſt Reign, ſurviv'd the Empe
SOS
Chap. I.
35
Michael III.
mage Wor
for Theophilus, and was jointly with Theocliſtus left Mi- A. D.
niſter of State under Theodora, who by the Number_842.
and Power of her Relations had ſuch an Influence over
Theodora
Affairs, that the began to overturn the whole Frame of the Empreſs
Government, Eccleſiaſtical and Civil. Ignorance, which Regent res
has been fil'd the Mother of Devocion, is inuch more
Stores -
fo of Superſtition, and the weakeſt Sex is generally ſhips
molt warm in the Defence of their Errors.
She baniſht the Patriarch Fohn, and fhur him up in
the Monaſtery of Clition, and plac'd Methodius, a Per-
ſon that had ſuffer'd much for his Obſtinacy in Idola-
try in the late Perſecurion, in the Parriarchal Throne.
She had the Decrees of the Packt Synod at Nice cona
firm'd by another at Conftantinople, and exercis'd all
manner of Cruelciesiągainſt the Orthodox Greeks, who
would not worſhip Images: For as the repreſented
Irere in her Superftition, ſo ſhe was like her in Cruelty,
and her End was equally Miſerable, though 'twas not
ſo ſudden as her defying the Erernal Juſtice, by open
Breach of the Divine Commandments, feem'd to poi.
iend. She was unſucceſsful in alınoſt all the Entero
prizes the undertook ; and the Saracens, during her Ad-
miniſtration, made way for their future Greatneſs and
the Ruin of the Romans. She ſent Theocliſtus with a
Fleet and an Army to recover Crete ; but a Report be
ing rumour'd abour, that Theodora was driv'o our of
Conſtantinople by the Malecontents, he left his Troops
to the Mercy of the Infidels, and rerurn'd thither, to
prevent the ill effects of an Inſurrection. The Sara.
cens eaſily defeated his Forces, and emboidned by their
Succeſs, made a Deſcent on Thrace, which Province
they deſtroy'd by Fire and Sword.
The Regent obſerving that her Son inclin'd ro De-
bauchery, rather incourag'd him in ir than reprov'd hiin
for it. While he minded only bis Pleaſures, her Power Th. i!! É -
was Abſolute, and ſhe was more willing to ſee him as
120109 of
lewd and as bloody as Domitian, than to part with the
the Eme
Sovereign Authority. She pur an ignorant Man over
hiin for his Preceptor, and there was no Body about
bim but ſuch as extoll'd the Happineſs of Picature,
making it con Gift in Rior and Wanionnels, and rail'd
at the Toils and Fatigues of Government. Thele D.
courſes fuited with the Emperor's Inclination, who,
.
DŽ
*";
36
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. I.
)
A.D. young as he was, had already almoſt equalld the Ex-
8.12
ample of that Monſter of Mankind, and Mirror of Tya
ranny, Nero, whom of all his Predeceffors he thought
moft worthy his Imitation. He was always warın
with Wine, and lov'd drinking ſo well, that he is for
that Reaſon Rild Ebriofus by Hiſtorians. He delight-
ed, like that cxecrable Tyrant, in Playes and Dancing,
to converſe with infamous Actors and Dancing-Maſters,
though they were reckon'd much more ſcandalous un.
der the Chriftian than under the Heathen Empire,
Like Nero he affected to be thought a good Singer,
Dancer, and excellent in all thoſe Diverſions, that are
rather fit Aunuſements for Women, than Exerciſes for a
Man, and much leſs for a Roman Emperor, who ought
to maintain the Character of a Hero inſeparable from
his High Offices. He indeed excelld in driving a
The Birth Chariot, being the beſt Charioteer in bis Time. He
and Rif
was alſo Famous for his Dexterity in Riding; and an
of Balilius Accident happend to him in his Horſe-Races, which
the Mace-made the Fortune of Bafilius, who ſucceeded him in
donian. the Imperial Throne, and roſe from the Level of the
People to the Higheſt Elevation.
A Captain of the Emperor's Guards having preſent.
ed him with a Fine Horſe, Michael reſolu'd to try it in
the Circus: He endeavour'd to look in bis Mouth to
fee what Age he was of, but the Horſe caperd ſo, he
could not ſatisfie himſelf, and every Body elſe attempt.
ed in vain to tame him at laſt Theophilitzus, an Offi-
cer in his Court, told him he knew a Young Man, nan'd
B.11.225, who underſtood the Managing of a Horſe to
Perfection : Michael lent for him immediately; as ſoon
as he came he took the Horſe by the Bridle, whiſper'd
in his Ear, as if there was ſomething myſterious in the
Buſineſs, and preſently made him as tame as a Lamb,
The Emperor was ſo glad of it, that he order'd him a
Place under the latter of bis Horſe.
Bafilius was born in a Village in the Neighbourhood
of Adrianople, but within the Limits of Macedonia,
from whence he was Sirnam'd the Macedonian. His
Father was one of thoſe Romins who were ſent into Bul-
garia when Crummus took Adrianople, in the Reign of
Riichzel Rh.angale : He carry'd his Son with him, and
they were both exchang'd with others for Bulgari.ro
PL
>
ܪ
1
Chap. I.
37
Michael III.
Priſoners, on the Concluſion of a Peace between the A. D.
842.
Romans and Bulgarians. When he return'd he was old
enough to offer his Service to Tzantzes, Governor of
Macedonia ; under whom he did not riſe faſt enough,
ſo he reſolv'd to go to Conſtantinople. A Greek Author Leo Gram.
tells us, that he traveli'd thither on Foot, and arriv'd
on a Sunday Night at the Golden Gate ; he reited his
I weary Limbs at the Steps of St: Diomedes's Church,
Nicholas, who had the Guard of the Gate, and was then
aſleep, bear'd, or fancy'd that he heard a Voice from
Heaven, ſaying, Rife, and let the Emperor in. Nicholas
filing, found only Bafilius at the Gate; he was vext
that he had got out of his Bed to wait upon ſuch an or-
dinary Fellow, ſhut the Wicket upon him, and went to
Bed again ; when he was lain down, he felt a Blow
like that of a Sword, and heard the ſame Voice ſaying,
Rile, and let the Man in whom you fam at the Gate,
for he is Emperor. He then again open'd the Wicker,
and receiv'd Baſilius, who had a Wallet on his Shoul-
der, and a Stick in his Hand. He carry'd him next
Day to the Bath, chang'd his Cloaths, and they con-
tracted a Brotherly Friend!hip by Oath. Nicholis had
a Brother who was Phyſician to Theophilismus, by whole
Commendation Bafilius became known to that. Cour.
tier as a perſon well Skill'd in the Management of
Horſes, and thus he got into Preferment at Court,
where he was ſoon after made Maſter of the Horſe ;
then Lord Chamberlain and Steward of the Houhold;
in which Poſt we muſt a while leave him. The Wri.
ters we took the Story of this Adventure with Nicholas Dufreſme.
from, ſeem to have ſome of the Monkih Qualities,
and to love Romance and Fable, ſo we ſhall not de-
pend too much on the Credit of that event. Some Au-Cedrenus,
chors have pretended Baſilius was of an Honorable Dufrelie.
Family, and that his Father, being Originally of Ar-
menia, was deſcended from the Arfacides ; but that is
as fictitious as Leo's Account of his coming to Conſtanti,
- nopie. 'Tis certain his Birth was mean, and that his
Fortune was Glorious and flirprizing.
The Bulgarians about this Time were very troubic-
fom to the Romans on the Borders, and the Court full
of Factions and Diviſions. Michael began zo grow re,
sty, and not to ſubmit ſo willingly to the Domination
D
of
$
美
​38
Chap. I.
The Roman Hiſtory:
[
L
1
{
100000
ans de
A. D. of his Mother as he was wont to do; and Bardas, her
8.42. Brother, obſerving he ſeem'd impatient under Controul,
thought to ſecure an Intereſt in him, by falling in early
with his Paffion of Ambition; as others had before
flatter'd his Lufts. He ſpoke mightily in Praiſe of Power,
ſet forth the Charms of Rule, and the Right he had to
it, and rail'd at Theocliſtus, as one who by his Intrigues
with the Empreſs Regent would deprive him of the So-
vereignty by marrying her or her Daughter: Michael
hearken'd to his Infinuations, believ'd them, and con-
ceiv'd an irreconcilable Hatréd to Theocliſtus, whom
he had always fear'd more than he lov'd. The Empreſs
Maniche. being Violent in all her Ways, and abhorring the He-
relie of the Manichæans, reſolv'd to extirpate them, and
ſtroy't.
rais'd ſuch a terrible Perſecution, that no fewer than
One Hundred Thouſand of them periſht in it. Manes,
Author of this Hereſie, liv'd in the Third Century, and
his Diſciples were divided into ſeveral Sects. Among
other damnable Opinions they deny'd Baptiſm, and
believ'd the Tranſmigration of Souls ; they affirm'd
there were Two Coeternal Kingdoms, and in a Word,
publiht one of the fouleſt and moſt extravagant Here-
fies that ever troubled the Chriſtian Church. Several
Emperors had made ſevere Laws againſt them, but their
Teachers allowing their Followers to wallow in all
manner of impurities, the Sect continu'd for many
Centuries. The Blow Theodora gave them began their
Deſtruction ; their Power was ſo weaken'd, they could
never recover it; and ſucceeding Governments found no
grear Difficulty to pur an end to their lewd Principles
and Practices. Four Thouſand of theſe Hereticks Aed
to the Turks, and fer them againt the Romans, whoſe
Territories they were always ready to invade. The
Minich.cans, where ever they came, joiu'd with the
Infide's, and the Eaſtern Provinces, which were moſt
infected with their Peſtilent Doctrine, were miſerably
waſted by thoſe Hereticks and the Saracens. Whether
Racks and Gibbers are a proper Means to convert Un-
believers, as thie Popiſh Caluilts affirm with Vehemence,
we ſhall not derermine ; let the Enesnies of Moderation, ,
who are not fond of thoſe violent Proceedings, decide
the Controverije with thoſe that deny it. The Re-
geul hy theſe cruel Methods drove anany Thouſands of
Pi
1
5
1
ز
$
?
1
1
I
1
Chap. I.
Michael III.
39
1
omans to Deſpair, forc'd them to Ay to the Mahomes A.D.
tans for Protection, whom they affifted in their Incur.
842
fans, and haſten'd the Loſs of Aſia.
Thoſe who wiſh'd well to the Empire, were not very
well pleas'd with Theodora's furious and bloody Zeal,
and the major part of the Romans abhorring her Innova-
tions in the Greek Church, by ſetting up Images, the
People were prepar'd to ſuffer her to be us'd as the Em-
peror thought fit, and none appear'd to juſtifie or Ree
venge her, when Bardas had perſuaded Michael to re-
move her. The Hiſtorians who write that Manuel ſur-
viv'd Theophilus, and had jointly with Theocliftus the
Adminiſtrarion of Affairs under Theodora, report, That
he retir'd from Court, and liv'd privately the remainder
of his Days, as ſoon as he ſaw Bardas was admitted
into the Emperor's Favour and Confidence; foreſeeing
what would be the conſequence of his continuing there,
from Bardas's Jealouſie, Ambition and Cruelty.
Theocliftus was Murder'd in this manner, Going one
Day to Areobindus's Baths, he went into a Cloſet where
be us’d to retire at his coming out of the Bath; and
when he came out of the Cloſet, having ſome Papers
in his Hand, as he paſt on to the Palace of Lauſus, he
ſpy'd Bardas fitting in his way magnificently Array'd,
às on purpoſe to inſul: him ; upon which Theocliſtus
faid, When I have spoken to the Emprefs, I'le drive bim
from Court. A little farther he met the Emperor with
Damienus the Patrician, a Friend of Burdas, in his
Company. Theocliſtus offering to enter Theodora's Apart-
ment, Michael commanded Dimienus to ſtop him, and
force him to read the Papers to him, as the proper Go-
vernor to whom the Adminiſtration belong'd He did
ir unwillingly, with the Tears in his Eyes, and as ſoon
as he had done, Birdas came up to him, ſtruck him in
the Face and pulld him by the Hair. Maniacius, Cap-
tain of the Night Guard, ſeeing it, reprov'd Bardas for
uſing Theocliſtas lo ill; B.sidias tid, "That he did was by
the Emperor's Orders And Afichael appearing at the
inſtant, Bondus and Theorbones cur Theoclitus to Pieces.
The Empreſs hearing the Murder of her friend,
frui, the
fan te her Son re complain of it. He did what be Enerosis
could ro pacific her, but flieg mo would not be tatis civel mi-
fyd, le chargis Lepores forbad ter to internister,
mcdlesien,
Tiecchi
40
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. I.
A. D. meddle with the Government, took it on himſelf, ſhut
842. up his four Siſters in the Monaſtery of Gaſtria, and not
long after had them fhorn ; fending Theodora ber felf
Theodora thither to keep them Company, where he was ſo diſ.
Shut up in confolate for the loſs of her Power, that the languiſh'd
& Alonaſle- and dy'd of Sorrow and Reſentment, unpity'd and un-
Ty.
lamented, for her Pride, Cruelty and Superſtition.
856
On the Death of the Empreſs, Bardas aſſum'd all
the Power into his own Hands, and Govern'd as abſo-
lutely as if he had indeed been Maſter of the Empire.
Bardas her
He cura'd of his wife and marry'd another, his own
Protive i ?
Daughter in Law. He incouragʻd the Emperor in all
Fivoulr.
his Debaucheries, and by this means got ſuch an Aſcen-
dant over him, that he manag'd him as he pleas'd. Mi.,
General of chacl firſt made him Grand Domeſtick, and afterwards in
bis Armies. January, rais'd him to the Dignity of Ceſar; preparing
the way for him to mount into the Throne on his Death.
Ignatius, who ſucceeded Methodius in the Patriarchal :
Chair, refus'd to admit Bardas into the Church, ſaying,
It Nould not be Propkan'd by the preſence of ſuch a wicked.
and impenitent Perfon. For which Bardas Banish'd him,
and put Pbocius in his place, who was a Lay.Man, and
as Lewd and Extravagant as either the Emperor or his
Uncle, if any Credit can be given to the Latin Au.
thors ; bụt their Evidence will be deſtroy'd when we let
the Reader underſtand that Photius held a Synod at
Pope Ni- Conſtantinople
, wherein Pope Nicholas was Excommuni-
cholas Ex-
cated and the Latin Church Condemn'd. Ignatius and
coinmuni-
his Party join'd with the Latins, having no other way
carede
A Schiſiz
to recover their loft Benefices and Dignities This occa-
in the
fon'da Schim in the Greek Church, Come of them
Creek joining with Photius and others with Ignatius, but the
Church greater part of them were for the former, and renounc'd
any dependance on the Pope
About this time Bigoris, King of Bulgaria, having
been unfortunate in a War that he had declar'd with
the quan19!, who had taken bis Siſter in an Incurſion
they made into his Territories; defir'd Peace, and that
his Sitter might be ſe: ar Liberty. That Princeſs had
been ir, happy in her Captivity, as to receive the Light
of the Gospel, and the Sacrament of Baptiſm; and
when the record Hone, was inſtrumental in the Con-
pereun of her Brother and his whole People, to the
Chrifts-
$
}
>
į
Chap. I.
41
Michael III.
on.
Chriſtian Religion. On their embracing our Holy A, D.
Faith, the Pope was very bulie to oblige them to ſubmit 856
to him, and Ignatius was mean ſpirited enough, to have TheBulga-
conſented that Bulgaria ſhould have been acknowledg'd rians Con-
to be part of the Weſtern Patriarchate. Photius when verted to
the Chriſti-
he was advanc'd to the Patriarchal Chair, oppos d it,
an Religi-
and was ſo reſolute in maintaining bis Prerogative a-
gainſt the Pope's Uſurpations, that he got the Bulgari.
ans to own his Supremacy in Ecclefiaftical Affairs. Maim- Hift, du.
bourgh with his uſual aſſurance, affirms, That the King Schiſ.
of Bulgaria was Converted at the fight of a Picture of Grec.
the Day of Judgment, and is ſo angry with Photius for
oppoſing the Pope, that tho' he was one of the greateſt
Prelates for Quality, Learning and Virtue, that ever
far in the Throne of the Greek Church; yet he calls
him a Cheat, a Perjur'd Man, a Counterfeit, a Backbiter,
an Hypocrite, and a Magician; but the FalGties and
Fictions of the Latin Authors, particularly the French,
are ſo frequent, 'would be endleſs to take notice of
them.
While theſe Diviſions continu'd between the Eaſtern
and Weſtern Pontiffs, and between Photius and Ignatius,
Bardas to fignalize his advancement to the Dignity of
Cæfar, put the Emperor on an Expedicion againſt the
Saracens, which he undertook in Perſon. He enter'd
the Infidel's Dominions, and having Ravag'd a great
bart of Armenia Minor, ſat down before one of their
Atrongeſt Towns on the Euphrates. The Saracens mak-
ing few or no Sallies, the Romans thought the Garriſon
was weak, and in great ſecurity ſpent che Lord's Day
in their Devotions. The Infidels watching their oppor-
tunity, attackt, and by the Aliſtance of the Manicbees, The Empes
roured them. The Emperor and Bardas, with much ror defeate
difficulty, made their
eſcape. The Saracens follow'ded by the
them into the Empire with an Army of Thirty Thou- Saracenso
fand Men. Michael rais'd Forty Thouſand Thracians,
Macedonians, and others of his Subjects, gave the Infi-
dels Barrel, and was again put to flight. But the next
Year Bardas perſuaded his Brother Petronas to try his
Fortune againſt the Infidels, and this General laying an
Ambuſcade for them, ſurpriz'd the Sultan as he was re-
Creating into his own Territories with the Booty he had
Sot in the Empire. The Romans routed his Ariny, and
857
AR
v
The Roman Hiſtory.
42
Chap. I.
>
1
A. D. an Officer overtaking the Sultan in the purſuit, cut off
.
857. bis Head and brought it to Patronas. After this Defeat
The Sultan the Saracens lay quiet for ſome time, however the Ro
defeated
mans were not at eaſe. The Ruffians with a Fleer of
and Nain. Two Hundred Sail, came down the Volga to the Eux.
LeoGram
The Ruffi-ine, and beſieg’d Conftantinople. The Citizens terrify'd
ans beſiege at the fight of ſuch a formidable Navy, full of Barba .
Conftanti rians raging after Chriftian Blood, were in a dreadful
pople. Confternation. Michael went to the Great Church of
Blacherne, to endeavour by Prayer and Humiliation to
avert the Divine Vengeance : Photius perform'd all the
Ceremonies of the Greek Worſhip, and a Tempeſt riſing
Their Fleet foon after, the Ruſſian Fleet was ſcatter'd and destroy'd
deſtroy'd by it. The Conſtantinopolitans were deliver'd from their
by a Tem- Pears, and Michael inſtead of offering his Hymns of
peft.
Praiſe, return'd to his former Impurities. Damienus,
whom we have already had occaſion to mention, of.
fending Bardas in not rifing to Salute him as he paſt by
ar a diſtance, was turn'd out of his Place of Lord-Cham-
berlain; which was given to Bafilius, who had been
Jately made Maſter of the Horſe, and in Honour of him,
the Emperor built the moft magnificent Stables that ever
had been ſeen in the Empire ; the Walls were of
Marble, and every thing elſe anſwerable. Bardas be-
gan to grow Jealous of Bafilius's Favour, and Bafilius
Ballias
hared him equally, for engroſſing all the Adminiſtration
Jorn18 a
of Afairs, and aſſuming the Dignity of Cafar. Symba-
Conſpiracy tins, who had marry d Bardas's Daugbrer, was perſua-
agzint ded by Bafilius, to join with him againſt bis Father-in-
Bardas. law, who had binder'd the Emperor's declaring Symbati-
115, Cæfar, as he intended, to have that Honour himſelf.
The young Man believing Bardas had done him that i!!
Ofice, went to the Emperor and told him, his Father-
in-law had conípir'd ro Depoſe and Murder him, con-
firming his Information by Oaths. Michael giving Cre-
dit to them, reſolv'd to rid himſelf of Bardas as foon as
poſſible. Bafilius obſerving thar Symbatius had ruin'd
Burdas by his' Accuſation, thought 'would not be ſafe
to arrempt his Life in Conſtantinople, and if they did
mor Kill him, they were not the better for what they
had already done. To get the Emperor out of the Ci-
tý, he advis’d himn to raiſe an Army and artack the St-
PICC738
Chap. I.
43
Michael III.
:
857
râcens in Crete. Accordingly the Emperor order'd his A. Da
Troops to march to the Sea-ſide, and Bardas to accom-
pany him. The latter had intimation of Bafilius's De-
Gigns, but his Flatrerers perſuaded him 'twas a falſe Sug.
geſtion to hinder his going with the Emperor, and thar.
ing the Glory of the Enterprize; and that his Preſence
only was ſufficient to ſcatter all his Enemies. The Con-
ſpirators who had engag‘d to murder Cæfar, were Ba-
filius, his Brother Marianus, Conſtantine Toxaras, and
others. When the Army arriv'd on the Coaſts, 'twas
obſerv'd thar Bardas, perhaps more by Chance than In-
tention, pitcht bis Tent on a Hill; the Emperor's being
ſet up below it in a Valley. This the Conſpirators re-
preſented to Michael, as a plain Demonſtration of bis
aiming at the ſovereign Power, and prevaild with him
to conſent to his Death. Ar the Day prefix'd for the
Execution of their Plor, the Conſpirators met all at the
Emperor's Tent, whither Bardas came in his Robes of
State to awe his Enernies the more. Bafilius meeting
him at the Door, bow'd lowly to him, took bim by
the Hand and led him to the Emperor. Cæfar fitting
down, ſaid, My Lord, the Forces being allready, be pleas’d Bardas
to Command them to Embark, that we may fee Sail.
Cult to Pico
While he ſpoke theſe Words Bafilius wounded him in ces in the
the Back, and the Conſpirators falling upon him, inn- Emperor's
mediately cut bim to Pieces. The Emperor and Baſio lent.
lius return d to Conſtantinople the ſame Day, the firſt of 866
April, 866. fearing the Army would Revenge the Death
of their General. When they arriv'd at the Imperial
City, there being no more Talk of the Invaſion of Crete,
they were both of them met with Cuiles inſtead of
Acclamations ; bur neither of them valu'd the Reſent-
ment of the Multitude, while the one enjoy'd the Plea-
fures of a Luxurious Court, and the other was in Por-
fefion of the Miniftry, which fell of courſe into his
Hands. He turn'd off a Wife he had formerly Mar.
ry'd, while he was Groom to the Governor of Macedo-
ria, gave her a good Sum of Mony and ſent her
Home. Then he Marry'd Eudoxia, Daughter to Inge-
rus, the Lagorhere or Lord Chancellor, whom the Em-
peror Lov'd and had Debauch'd
Michael was
pleas'd to ſee his Miftgels ſo well diſpos'd of, and B 1ſi-
دنده 3
44
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. I.
A. D. lius by his flattering him in all his Paſſions and Plea-
866 ſures, gaind an entire Aſcendant over him: So far he
Bafilius
got into his good Graces, that on Whitſun-Eve, he ſent
allociated
to the Patriarch to Publiſh at the following Feſtival,
worth Mi- That Bafilius was aſſociated with him in the Empire.
chael in
On Whitſunday in the Morning, two Thrones were
ebe Empire. erected in the Metropolitan Church, to the Aftoniſhment
of tke People. Bafilius was proclaim'd Emperor before
the Congregation, and Michael aſſiſted at the Solemni-
ty of putting on his Imperial Ornaments. He made a
Speech to the Auditory. Informing them of 'Bardas's
Deſigns againſt his Life, and Bafilius's Vigilance to pre-
vent them; for which he could not do leſs than make him
bis Colleague, who was indeed the Deliverer of the Em.
pire. After the uſual Ceremonies were over, the Peo-
ple floured, Long Live Michael and Bafilius; tho ma-
ny of them, the Nobility eſpecially, did not like to ſee
a Groom on the Imperial Throne.
Symbatius finding Bafilius had made a Tool of him,
and that there was nothing left for him to hope, the Ro-
mans being enrag'd at his Treachery to his Fatker-in-
LeoGram. law, in deſpair took Arms, but was ſoon reduc'd, tao
ken, and Blinded. Michael out of an Averſion to the
Memory of Conſtantinus Copronymus, againſt whom his
Mother had bred him up in an inveterate Antiparby,
for his Severity to the Image Worſhippers, order'd his
Corpſe to be taken up, whipt and burnt, and bury'd
again in a meaner Place. Our Author reports that the
Body was whole. The ſame inhumane Treatment he
ſervd to the Body of the Patriarch Famnez. He
grew worſe and worſe as he grew older, and being
neither a hearty Friend to the Orthodox, nor a hearty
Favourer of the Worlhippers of Images, both Parties
hated him for his Crucity and Lewdneſs. Not long af
der Bafilius's Advancement, Michael, who was as Incon-
ftant as he was Wicked, began to hate the Work of his
Hands, and to repent that he had done ſo much for the
Macedonian. Bafilius obſerv'd the change of his Will,
and reſolv'd to Arm himſelf againft him. It happen'd
that at a Celebrarion of the Horſe-Games, the Emperor
was proclaim'd Victorious. Baſiliſcian; a Patrician
who was noted for his Flattery, attending him at Din,
i
nel
Chap. T.
45
Michael IHT.
ner, highly extolld his Dexterity in riding and driving A. Du
a Chariot. Michael to Reward him for his Complacen- 845
cy, order'd him to take the Golden Buskins (part of the
Regalia) off his Feet, and put them upon his own.
Bal
filiſcian excus’d himſelf, looking on Baſilius. Michae-
falling into a violent Paſſion, commanded him to do it.
Bafilius alſo made a Sign to him to Obey; and the
Emperor turning to his Colleague, Swore and ſaid, He
deſerves the Honour better than you. Have not I as much
Power to make him an Emperor as I had to make you one ?
Eudoxia, Bafilius's Wife, endeavour'd to bring Michael
into a good Temper again, but ſhe could not mollifie him
ſo much as the intended. He bad her however, not to
Trouble her ſelf, for the ſhould marry Bafiliſcian. From
that time Bafilius confpir'd Michael's Death, and effe-
cted it when he was with Eudoxia, warm with Wine.
He ſeem'd in a very pleaſant Humour, and drank with
him till the Emperor fell aſleep; he then ſhut the Doors He Mms
of the Palace, and by the Afliſtance of his Brother Ma-ders MS-
rianus and others, Murder'd Michael and Bafilifcian, chael
who was one of the Company, on the 23d of April,
in the 25th Year of his Reign, including the Fourteen
Years of his Mother's Adminiſtration. The Twelfth
of Lewis II. the weſtern Emperor. The Second of
Ethelred King of England. And the Firſt of Pope
Adrian II. A. D. 867.
859
CH A P.
46
Chap. II.
The Roman Hiſtory.
CH A P. II.
From the Reign of Bafilius the Mace-
donian, to the Death of Conftan-
tine IX. the laſt Emperor of his
Race.
1
Containing the Space of One Hundred Sixty
One Years.
867
Bafilius.
A. D. MICHAEL being Dead, Baſilius was Proclaim’d
ſole Emperor by the Prefect and Marianus, Son of
Petronas, Brother to Bardas. Photius the Patriarch ups
braided him publickly for his Ingratitude to bis Bene-
factor, forbad him to enter his Church, calling him,
Robber and Homicide ; at which Bafilius was ſo en-
rag'd, that to be Reveng'd on him, he ſubmitted to the
Supremacy of the Pope, accepted of a Bull ſent him
for the Reſtauration of Ignatius, Son of Michael Rhan-
gate, the abdicated Patriarch, and drove Photius into
Exile.
His firſt Éxpedition againſt the Saracens was unſuco
863 ceſsful, his Army was routed, and himſelf had been taken
Priſoner, had not Theophila&tus, an Armenian of noble
Deſcent, fav’d him. This Man was Father of Romanus
who was Emperor; but Theophilačtus refus'd the Ho.
nours offer'd him by Bafilius, defiring only a good
Eſtate where he might live Eaſy and Pleaſantly the re-
mainder of his Life. When he return'd co Conſtantino.
ple he ſent Chriſtopker, his Son-in-law, with an Army
to Africk, where the Romans defeated the Saracens, des
Atroy d the Country, and brought off a conſiderable
Booty
The
Q
$
Chap. II.
47
Balilius.
I
The Emperor having receiv'd a bold Remonſtrance A. D.
from Thecla, Michael's Sifter, order'd the Man that 86%
drew it up, to be Whipt and thruſt into a Moriaſtery.
The Princeſs her ſelf was alſo Whipe by his Command.
He forc'd the Fedos to turn Chriſtians, thoſe that were
Converted he liberally Rewarded, and ſeverely Treat-
ed thoſe that continu'd Obftinate in their Errors. Nie
cholas, whoſe Friendſhip with him commenc'd from the
time, that he let him in at the Gate with his Budget ac
his Back, was made Treaſurer of the Patriarchal Church.
And the Empire enjoying a ſort of Peace abroad, he
fpent his Time at home in Building and other Acts of
Magnificence. He order'd a Statue of a certain Biſhop
to be remov'd from the Church wherein it ſtood, to an.
other he bad Built. The Prelate was repreſented with
a Stick in his Hand, and a Snake winding round it.
The Emperor coming to view it after 'twas fer up, pui
his Finger to the Snake's Mouth and was Srung by it,
there being a real Serpent that had crept into, or bred in
it; and not a miraculous Sting of the brazen Snake, as
fome Hiſtorians would inſinuate, pretending 'twas a
Judgment of God on him for touching any Thing that
belong'd to the Church, tho' but to remove it to ano-
ther Place. He examin'd narrowly into the Manage-
ment of the Treaſury, reſun'd all his Predeceffor's
Grants and Penſions that were given on trivial Accounts,
and the Mony the Refumptions brought in, he beſtow'd Bafilius
in Largeffes on the People. He was very exact in the good Admi-
Adminiſtration of Juſtice, and 'tis ſaid; Wept for Joy niſtratiet
once that not one of his Subjects had occaſion to Peci.
tion him, againſt any of his Officers or Magiſtrates. He
had his elded Son Conſtantine, whom he ſurviv'd,
Crown'd. Leo, bis ſecond Son, was generally believ'd
to be the Emperor Michael's, however he Honour'd
him with the Imperial Diadem; the ſame he did by
Alcxander his third Son : His fourth and youngeſt Son
Stephen, he bred a Scholar, debigning to prefer him to
the Patriarchal Throne of Conſtantinople His four
Daughters he Mut up in the Monaſtery of Euphemia,
that none by Marrying tliem, might be tempted to di-
{turb bis Sons in the Succeífion.
The Manichees who had taken Arms and ſecur'd le-
veral Forts and Cities, he reduc'd by Arms. For which
he
.
48
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
A. D. he Triumph'd: He took Cæſarea in Cappadocia, brought
873 off a great Booty, and a vaſt number of Priſoners, and
forc'd the Saracens to beg a Peace, which he refus'd to
grant them. He attack'd Crete, and recover'd that
Inand from the Infidels ; but either he could not keep
it, or the Authors who relate it are miſtaken; for Crete
was in poffeffion of the Saracens almoſt a Hundred
Years afterwards. He made a fortunate Expedition in-
to Cilicia ; ſent Forces into the Weſt to oppoſe the İne
fidels in Italy; and by his Courage and Succeſs, be-
came Dear to bis People, and Terrible to his Ene-
mies.
Ignatius, the Patriarch, having undone all that Photi-
us had done to extirpate Idolatry, calling a pretended
Synod to ſettle Image-Worſhipand procuring Pope
John VIII. or rather Pope Joan; to Excommunicare
880 Photius ; departed this Life with the Character of a Saint
The Schiſm among his Faction. Bafilius reſtor'd Photius on Ignati-
in the
us's Death. Photius Summond a general Council at
Greek
Conſtantinople. 383 Biſhops ſat there, confirm’d Photius
Church en-
in the Patriarchate, and condemn'd Ignatius's Follow-
creaſes.
ers; which kept up the Schiſm in the Greek Church, and
widen'd the Breach between the Patriarch of Conſtanti-
sople, and the Biſhop of Rome; who pretended to Pro-
test Ignatius and his Party. Photius wrote againt the
Latin Church, and yielded no manner of Preference to
the See of Rome.
While theſe Tranſactions paſt in ſpiritual Matters,
Bafilius carry'd on the War with the Saracens fucceſsful.
ly every where. Nalar, his Adiniral, Surpriz'd, Sunk,
Burnt or Took all their Fleer in the Ionian Sea. Him
ſelf invaded Syria, and ravag’d the Country meeting with
no Oppoſition. Conſtantine, his eldeſt Son, dying in
this Expedition, Leo ſucceeded him in his Father's Fa-
He marry'd hiin to Theophania, Daughter of
Conſtantinus Murrinacius, and intended to leave him the
Imperial Diadem.
Procovius, bis General in the Eaſt, having obtain'd
ſeveral Victories over the Saracens, was at laſt betray'd
by Apoftupus who envy'd his Fortune, and flain in a
Batrci with the Infidels. The Emperor order'd Eu-
pbraxaswith a good Body of Troops, to make a Del
cent into Sicily, where the Grecks made themſelves Ma-
Aters
Vour.
Chap. II.
49
Bafilius.
!
fters of Syracuſe and held it for forne time ; but by the A. D.
8300
Negligence of Adrian, the Patrician, who was ſent thi-
ther with Recruits and Reinforcement of freſh Forces,
and was delatory in his Voyage, the City fell into the
Hands of the African Saracens.
Leo Salibaxas recommending Theodorus, the Abbor,
Archbishop of the Euquaites, to Photius for a Man of
fingular Piery, who had the gift of Propheſie and could
do Miracles, the Patriarch introduc'd him to the Emperor,
who took him into Favour, and made him one of his
moſt ſecret Confidents, Theodorus flattering him in all
his Paſſions, the fore way of gaining the good Graces of
privare Men as well as Princes. Bafilius being very
much Troubled for the loſs of his Son Conſtantine, Theo-
dorus promis'd to ſhew him to him Alive ; and we are LeoGram
told, He Conjur'd ſo effectually, that one Day as B.:/-
lius was by a Wood. fide, an Apparition reſembling his
Son Conſtantine on Horſe-back, appear'd before him,
came up to him and Embrac'd him. Thoic vanithe
preſently, yet the Enıperor was ſo well farisfy'd that it
was ſomething more than an Illufion, as to build a
Church on that Place, under the Name of St. Conftan-
tine. Theodorus by his Magick and Deceit, became the
reigning Favourire and Miniſter; at which Leo, Bafilius's
Son, who thought he ought to be admitted into the Ada
miniſtration, was offended. Theodoré obſerv'd the Prince's
Steps, and endeavour'd to trace him into an Error,
that he might ſet his Father againſt him; but finding he
was wary, and nor eaſily to be betray'd, he affected an
extraordinary Friendſhip for him, and Zeal for the Safe-
ty of the Emperor. Seeing him on a time unarm'd, he
askt, Why he did not carry a Digger about with him, to
defend himſelf and his Father if occafion requiid. Leo
thinking the Man ſpoke Honeſtly, and that his Intentia
on was good, wore a Dagger ; and Theodorus perceiving
it, told the Emperor, That he bad a deſign to Kill him,
and had hid that Weapon under his Robe to do it Bafilius
order'd him to be ſeiz'd, the Dagger was found about
him; and chiar confirming Theodorus's Charge, he would
Leo fiind
have loſt his Eyes had not l'hotius interceeded heartily
แ and impris
furile
for him. He was Impriſon'd, and Nicetäs, his Friend;
Whipt for noe diſcovering the pretended Conſpiracy:
20 yag shree Months in Priſon, and during lis Corio
finierents
-
50
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
1
3
vouY.
!
A. D. finement, wrote ofren to his Father to juſtifie himſelf
380. Bafilius ſeem'd inexorable at that time, at laſt Nature
ard Reaſon prevail'd over his Reſentments and he was
Releasid
diſcharg’d. Leo being at liberty, convinc'd his Father
of the Fallhood of Theodore's Accufation; which as it
and in Filo
loſt him his Credit at Court, ſo it gain'd Leo the Favour
of his Father, who ever after kept him near his Perſon.
Europal. Some Writers affirm, The young Prince was ſeven
Years a Priſoner, and that the Lords of the Court hav-
ing ſo long mediated for him in vain, contriv'd a Stra-
tagem to move the Emperor's Pity.
A Parrot was
taught to ſpeak theſe Words, Ai, ai, Kúpis newy. Alas,
Alas, My Lord Leo. The Emperor making a Feaſt for
some of his principal Courtiers, the Parrot was hung up
in the Hall, and ſpeaking this in the midſt of their Mera
riment, they ſeer'd all ftruck as if they thought the Par-
rot ſpoke by Inſpiration. Bafilius was touch'd more
than any of them, and a few Perſuaſions prevaild with
him to releaſe his Son.
A dangerous Conſpiracy was derected not long after.
'Twas carry'd on by Fobannes Curcuas, an Officer in
the Army, who had been rold by a Teller of Fortunes,
that he ſhould be Emperor. Sixty Six Perſons of Qua-
Tity as well Senators as others, were concern'd in is.
Curcuas, Maſter of the Wardrobe, a Relation of the
other Curcuas, diſcover'd it to the Emperor, as he was
Celebrating the Games of the Circus. Baſilius exá-
min d the Marter, found it to be true, and Puniſh'd the
Conſpirators anfwerable to their Deſerts.
The Emperor being a Hunting, a Stag, of a larger
Baſilius Size than ordinary, took him by the Girdle with his
Willd as he
Horn, and flung him of his Horſe. One of his At-
mis Hunt-
rendants ran to him, drew his Sword, cut his Girdle,
ing.
and freed him from the Stag that had gord him to Death.
LeoGram Bafilius, dying as he was, cominanded the Man to be
Beheaded who had cut his Girdle,believing he had drawn
his Sword to Murder hiin. The Hiſtorians of thefe
Barbarous Ages, were either ſo Byaſs’d by Parties, or ſo
Ignorant, ſo Illiterate, and ill Inform’d of the Facts they
relare, that there is ſcarce one Event which is told the
Gregor, fame way by two of them. Another Author writes that
in vita
Baflius, the Macedonian, dy'd of a Diarrhæa the firit
Bafil. jan. of March, A. D. 886. He Reign'd with Michael One
1
Chap. II.
51
Bafilius.
Year and Four Months ; and alone Eighteen Years, Ten A. D.
Months and Seven Days. We fiave ſeen by his Hilto 886.
ry, that he Govero'd the Empire with equal Courage,
Wiſdom and Juſtice ; and if he had acquir'd it as faitly
as he Ruld, he had deſerv'd a Place among the Beſt and
Greateſt of his Predeceffors. He was Brave and Poli-
tick. His Piety inclin'd a little to Superſtition, and
like many of the Emperors who Reign'd before him, His Chara-
He was too curious in looking into Fururity, by the cter,
aſſiſtance of Magicians, the Monks in thoſe Times
frequently ſpending their Lives in the Study of Necro-
mancy, tho' perhaps the Opinion that the Multitude had
of their being Conjurers, ought rather to be attributed
to the Ignorance of the Age, than to the Guilt of the
Prieſts. 'Twas enough to paſs for a Magician if a Man
had a ſmall ſtock of the Mathematicks; and when the
Latin Authors would blacken any of the Greek Clergy,
if they had any Learning, they ſeldom faild of giving
it the Name of Magick.
$
}
Leo VI
i
His Prince for his Learning and Wisdom, was Sir-TV by Leo
nam'd Philofophus. His Father, if Bafiliús was was call'd
fo, took care to have him well Educated in Letters, Philoſo-
and the Prince delighting mightily in his Studies
, acquir'd phus.
great Knowledge in all the Sciences; and by his Fa.
ther's Leffons, became a Maſter of the Art of Govern-
ment. Stephen, his Brother, was bred up and instruct.
ed by Photius the Patriarch, whoin Leo hated for re-
commending the Abbot Tlieodorus to his father. Phori.
us had, 'tis true, deſerv'd better of Leo, having by his
Interceflion, fav'd him from the terrible Effects of his
Father's Diſpleaſure. However the new Emperor ſenė
the old Patriarch once more into Baniſhment, and plac'd
his Brother Stephen in the Throne of the Greek Church,
To ingratiate himſelf with the People, who had not
yet forgot by what means Bafilius advanc'd himſelf to
the ſole Dominion of the Roman Empire, he commanded
Andrew, a principal Officer of his Court, and ſeveral
Senators and Prieits, to go to Chryfopolus, and ferch the
Body
52
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chiap. II.
.
A. D. Body of the Emperor Michael thence, to be Bury'd
886. with the Pomp ſuitable to his Dignity, at Conſtantinople.
He then order'd an Accuſation to be drawn up againſt
Photius and Theodorus, as if they had Conſpird to De-
throne him, and Advance a Relation of Photius's to the
Imperial Power ; but the Charge not being prov'd, the
Patriarch was only confin'd to the Monaſtery of the
Armenians. Theodorus having other Miſdemeanours to
anſwer for, did not come off ſo well. Leo remembring
the Hardſhips he had ſuffer'd by his falfe Suggeſtions,
in bis Father's Reign, commanded him to be Baftina.
do'd, Blinded, and Banilh'd to the Borders of the Ro-
man Provinces in the Eaſt. He afterwards took Picy
of him, recaļi'd him, and allow'd him a Penſion.
His firſt Enterprize was to Reduce part of Italy,
which Ayon, Duke of Lombardy, had ſeizd, and for-
merly belong'd to the Byzantine Empire. Conſtantine,
the Emperor's Cup-bearer, was ſent with an Army into
the Weſt, whoſe Forces were defeated by the Italians,
whom the Greek Emperors, Leo's Succeffors, could never
bring under their Obedience, tho they ſometimes poſ.
fels'd cheinſelves of fome Cities on the Coaſts.
Theophanea, the Empreſs, dying ſoon after the Empe-
ror's Acceſſion to the Throne, he had ſuch a Veneration
for her Memory, that he built a Church which was De-
dicated to her, her Virtues having got her a Place among
the Greek Saints. · However Leo was not ſo griev'd for
her Death, but that he could look on another Woman
with Pleaſure. He was paſſionately enainour'd of Zoe,
Daughter of Tauszas, and Widow of Anniatzita, who
was firſt his Miſtreſs and afterwards his Wife. Her Beau-
dy had ſo much Power over him, that ſhe govern'd hiin
as the pleas'd, and procur'd the Advancement of all her
Family. Her Father Tzautzas was made General of the
Forces that were ſent to relieve the Fort of Samos, be-
fieg'd by the Saracens, who had taken Paſpalus, a Ro-
man General, Priſoner. The Infidels not being able to
compell the Beſieg’d to ſurrender, retir'd to the Conti-
nent of Afit, without giving Tzautzas the Trouble to
drive them off the Ifiand.
In the third Year of the Emperor's Reign, the Bulga.
Tb. Buiga-rian War commenc’d, and was occafion'd by the Ava-
rian Vlr. rice of Tz luzas, who had in his Service an Eunuch,
call'd
!
-
Chap. II.
53
Leo VỊ.
!
call'd Muſicus, a Friend of Stauracius and Cofmus, two
A. D.
rich Merchants; who for their private Advantage, had 886.
prevail'd with Muſicus to perſuade Tzautzas on certain
Conditions, to procure an Imperial Edict, for removing
the Mart of the Bulgarian Traders from Conſtantinople
to Theſalonica, and to lay a new Duty on their Commo-
dities: Which was done, and thoſe Duries collected with
great Severity. The Bulgarians complain'd to their King
Simeon, a brave Prince who had been bred up ac Con.
ſtantinople in the Studies of Letters, and was itild SA-
migrecus from his Politeneſs and Friendſhip to the Greeks.
Simeon complain'd, by his Ambaſſadors, to Leo of the
ill Uſage his Subjects, trading to his Dominions, re-
889.
ceiv'd by the Cuſtom Houſe Officers. Leo deſpis'd his The seedfi-
Remonftrances, and Simeon in a Rage made War upon
on of it,
the Romans, defeated Crinita, their General, kill'd him
and a prodigious number of Soldiers, and others whom
his Revenge purſu'd. He cut off the Noſes of the Pri-
ſoners he took, and then ſuffer d them to deparr. When
they arriv'd at Conſtantinople, the Romans were exaſpera-
ted at the Indignities offer'd their Country. Men; and
Leo being more enrag'd than any of them, rais'd a great
Army to revenge the Affront, and ſent to the Stracens to
implore their Aid ; which is the firit inſtance of the Ro-
man Emperors calling in the Infidels to their Affittance Leo deſires
in Europe. The Caliph order'd Two of his Captains, Ait of the
Arpades and Cufanes, to tranlport a confiderable Body Saracens,
of Forces into Thrace, to aſſiſt Leo. Euſtatus with the
Roman Fleer was commanded to attack the Bithg rrians
by Sea, while Nicephorus Phocas invaded Simecn's Do.
minions by Land. He alſo prevail d with the Hungri-
ans by a round Sum of Money to enter his Territories.
on their Side. Simeon march'd Grft again't the Hunga.
rians, fought them, was defeated, and with much Dif.
ficulty eſcap'd to Diſtra. This Overthrow ſo bunbled
him, that he beg'd a Peace of Leo, who readily granted
his Requeit. Simeon having obtain'd his ends by divi-
ding the Romans and Hungarians that had leagu'd against
him, fell upon the latter and ruin'd their Country,
Leo requiring to have the late Treaty obferv'd, in which
the Hungarians were included, Simeon anſwer'd, He
would never make a Peace till all the Bulgarians whoin
the Romans had taken, were releas'd. Leo not being in
a Con
B 3
*
$4
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
:
A. D. a Condition to affift his Confederates ſo ſoon as their
8890 Neceſſities requir'd,, conſented to his Demand ; yet Si-
meon ſtill exacted harder Terms from him, and this fo
provok'd the Emperor, that be reſolv'd to attack him with
the whole Strength of the Empire. The Turks or Scythi-
ans were alſo engag'd by Leo in bis Quarrel; but by the
ill Management of the Miniſtry, who for their own pri-
vare Advantage, ſow'd Diviſions among the Officers of
the Army, all his Preparations were render'd ineffectual:
However Simeon ſent him Propoſals of Peace, by Perſons
whom the Emperor had order'd to treat with him about
the Exchange of Priſoners. Leo accepted of the Propo-
ſals, and an Ambaſſador was diſpatch'd away to 'con-
clude the Treaty, but Simeon hearing the Romans were
at the ſame time preparing to continue the War, threw
the Imperial Ambaſſador into Priſon, and did the ſame
himſelf. He roured the Scythians cut moſt of them to
Pieces, and defeated Lco Catacalon, and Theodofius a Pa-
trician, who were order'd to carry on the War againſt
him.
During theſe Tranſactions, the Inhabitants of the Fort
of Cherſona rofe on their Governor and kill'd him, and
The RO-
the Saracens ſurpriz'd that of Coron in Cappadocia. Some
fortunate
time before Tzantzas the Son of Tzautzas, conſpir'd
in this with others to affaffinate the Emperor. What ends they
War. propos’ú to themſelves by it, is uncertain ; and the Con-
ſpiracy is the more ſurprizing, becauſe 'twas contriv'd
by Tzantzas, Zoe's Brother. The Empreſs was in Bed
with the Emperor, when the Conſpirators were advanc-
ing to affacinare hiin. She gave him notice of their ap-
proach, he being then afleep, and had buc juft time
enough to make his Eſcape. About the ſame rime Sao
sonas, a Saracer, who pretending to turn Chriſtian,
was receivd into the Emperor's Protection and Favour,
diſcover'd another Conſpiracy, of which Bafilius, Su.
perintendant of the Buildings, was Author. He had
been told by a Fortune-telier, that he ſhould be Einpe-
ror; and to make the Prediction good he deſign'd to
Simona; murder Leo and Itep into his Throne. His Deſign bea
tine Sara. ing deze Pied, he was punim d according to the hainouſ-
neis of his Crime. The Service Samonas did in diſco-
iz
(
vering this Conſpiracy, was ſo great, that Loo prefer’d
svoje bobin to all his Favourites; and tho it 'twas ſuſpected,
be
112 ans
in-
Chap. II.
59
Leo VỊ.
he was neither a Roman nor a Chriftian in his Affections, A. D.
he truſted him with the Adminiſtration of all Affairs,
889.
being deaf to any Informations againſt him, and not to
be convinc'd even by unqueſtionable Proofs of his
Treachery.
Zoe the Empreſs dying two Years after Leo had hon-
Gur'd her with the Imperial Crown, He marry'd Eu-
doxia, a Lady of equal Beauty, and much more Virue,
who dying in Child-Bed, the Emperor took another
Zoe to Wife, by whom he had his Son Conſtantine. Ni-
cholas the Patriarch, Succeſſor to Stephen, declar'd this
fourth Marriage unlawful, being forbidden by the Ca-
nons: He was ſo bold as to Excommunicate the Empe- Leo ex-
ror, and Leo finding him obſtinare in his refuſing to ad-communi-
mit him to his Church, drove him from it himſeit, and
pue Euthymius in his place. He publiſh'd an old Law
that made the fourth Marriage lawful, and took off
the Emperor's Excommunication, but this difference
created a new Schiſm in the Greek Church ; ſome fiding
with Nicholas's Party, and others with Euthymius's.
901
Tho' there had been ſeveral Conſpiracies form'd a-
gainſt Leo, yet all of them had been detected and pre-
vented, till in a Proceſſion, which the Emperor made
on Whitſunday to the Church of St. Mucius, a Fellow
knockt him down and left him for dead; the Man was
foon ſeiz'd and put to the Rack, to diſcover his Ac-
complices; he endur'd the Torture without making the
leaſt Confeſſion of his Crime or his Companions in it.
Alexander the Einperor's Brother excuſing his attendance
at the Proceffion, was ſuſpected, and 'twas taken notice of
that Sarnonas was alſo abſent, but the Criminal refuging
to make any diſcovery, nothing could be prov'd to hurt
any one, ſo he was order'd to be burnt in the Hippo.
drome, having his Hands and Feet firſt cut off: The
Extravagance of the Action, and the Man's being ſo
mute on the Rack, gave occafon to fome to imagine he
was rather a Madinan than a Trayiüt.
The Saracens who had now broken their late League
with the Emperor, equipt a Fleer, giving out that they
intended to beliege Coxſt.1930 inople, on a ſudden they
The Satur
turn'd their Arms on Thefalonic and took it. Samonas
who'ris probable correſponded with them, and was in-Thebalo
.
ſtrumental in the loss of the City, petending to pilit anica,
Mias
ÇERS rike
56
Chap. II.
The Roman Hiſtory.
bout to fly
to them.
A. D. Monaſtery on the Banks of the River Damaſtris, fled
901. with his Treaſure, intending to join his Countrymen :
He cut the Hamſtrings of all the Poſt-Horſes on the
Road, to prevent his being purſu'd : Leo hearing of his
eſcape, coinmanded Baſilius Camiterus to purſue him.
Nicephorts, an Oficer in the Guards, arreſted him as
he was about to paſs the River Halys, and Conſtantine
Ducas coming up with him immediately after Nicepho-
rus had ſeiz'd him, carry'd him back to Conſtantinople,
where the Emperor order'd a Guard to be fer upon him
in the Palace of Bardas Cæfar. Conftantine having found
out that he intended to fly to Syria, Leo commanded
him not to ſay a Word of it to the Senate, fearing he
ſhould not be able then to ſave him, as he intended.
Conſtantine being queſtion'd about it, told what he knew
Samonas of the Matter; for wbich the Emperor baniſh'd bim his
is taken as Preſence, and Samonas after four Months Confinement,
he was ao
was reſtor’d to his former Offices and Favour, and ad-
vanc'd to new Honours, being made Lord Chamber,
ain.
The Saracens were not ſtrong enough to keep Theffa-
ferr'd to lonica, ſo they plunder'd and abandon'd it, carrying a
new Places
way a Multitude of Romans into Captivity. The Ein-
of Truſt
peror to revenge the Injuries his Subject had receiv'd
and Honore from them in all parts of the World, equipt a Fleet and
gave the Command of is and of the Forces aboard to
Himerius, ordering Andronicus Ducas who was at the
Head of an Army in Aſia, to join him and march againſt
the Saracens, Samonas who hated Andronicus for the
diſſervice Conſtantine his Son had done him, procur'd a
Perſon to write thus to him. Have a care hom you join
Himerius, for Samonas has perfwaded the Emperor to order
him to pull out your Eyes. Andronicus knowing what influence
the Saracen had over Leo, believ'd the information he
had receiv'd, and refus'd to join Himerius, whom the In-
fidels attack'd and defeared. Samonas had a fair occa-
fion to miſrepreſent his Diſobedience of the Imperial
Orders, as done with a deſign to revolt, and the ill
Conſequence of his refuſal, juſtifying the Emperor's Rea
fentient, Giegory General of the Weſtern Army was
iſpatch'd with a Body of Troops to reduce isim A12-
ironiciis hearing of his approach, fled with his Family
and Friends to the Caliph, and was receiv'd with Joy.
He is pre-
-
1
Chap. IJ.
Leo VI.
5
57
He embracd the Mahometan Religion, and was in great A.D.
Eſteem among the Infidels, though he loft it afterwards, 901.
when repenting of his Errors, he renounc'd thoſe of Andronia
Mahomet, and return'd co the Profeſſion of the Chriſti- cus Ducas
an Faith. He was a Man of Quality and Intereſt ; he Ays to the
Saracens,
had obtain'd ſeveral Advantages over che Saracens in
turns Ma-
Aſia, and was lookt upon to be one of the beſt Officers hometan,
in the Empire : Wherefore when Leo heard of his De and repents
fertion he was extreamly forry, and conſidering the A-
verſion of Samonas to the Family of Ducas, he began to
fufpect there might be fome Treachery in his Accuſa-
tion. To recover ſo good a Servant, he wrote him ſe.
veral Lerrers, which were to be convey'd to him by a
Saracen that had offer'd his Service to the Emperor. Sa-
monas brib'd his Countryman, and engag'd bim co de-
liver the Letters to the Caliph, who upon reading them
commanded Andronicus to be thrown into Priſon, where
he ended his Days in Want and Miſery: His Followers
were ſerv'd as cruelly, ſome of them dy'd under the
Hardſhips they ſuffer'd ; others abjur'd their Religion
for favour, and otbers eſcap'd into the Roman Territo-
ries; among whom was conſtantine his Son, who re-
turning to' Conſtantinople, was highly advanc'd by
the Emperor, to the great Mortification of Samo-
nas, whoſe Father hearing of his Son's good For-
tune in Leo's Court, came thither to ſhare a part of it;
the Emperor receiv'd him graciouſly at Magnaura, and
out of Vanity thew'd him the Treaſures of the Church,
the Gold and Silver Vefſels, and ſo charm'd the Bar-
barian, that he had a mind to be of the ſame Religion,
and ſettle in the Empire, which Samonds diffwaded him
from, ſaying, Keep to your own Faith, and as ſoon as I
can I will again embrace it. Not long after the Favou.
rile Saracen recommended a young Paphlagonian Gentle-
man to the Empreſs, who taking him into her Service,
lik'd him ſo well that he ſoon got the ſtarc of Samonas in
her good Graces. The Saracen did his utmoſt co remove
him from the place to which he had advanc'd him,
bur finding his Power was as great in the Empreſs's
Court as his own, to be revengd of him, he charg'd
him with being too familiar with his Miſtreſs : The Emn-
peror order'd him to be ſhorn and ſhut up in the Mo-
naſtery of Taraſus; from whence he was afterwards re-
call's
58
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
A.D. call'd, and Leo being convinc'd that the Accufation he
901. was charg d with was falle, order'd Samonas himſelf to
Samonas carry him a Lay-Habit: The Saracen in a rage wrote
writes a a Scurrilous Libel againſt the Emperor, and one of his
Libel a
Confidents diſcovering the Author, be was ſhav'd and
gainſt the
thruſt into a Monaſtery ; too mild a Puniſhment for
Emperor.
He's thruſt ſuch an Incorrigible Traytor. His Office of Lord Cham-
Ensto & Mo-berlain was given to Conſtantine. About the ſame time
naſtery.
Damienus the Caliphs's General defeated Himerius in a
Sea-fight; In which Romanus Governour of Samos, who
afterwards reign'd over the Empire, was preſent. The
Emperor did not long ſurvive this Defear, dying of the
Cholick on the rith of May in the 26th Year of his
own Reign, and the laſt of Lewis the IVth Weſtern Em.
Leo's peror, with whom the Dominion of the Race of Char-
Death, lemagne ended in Germany; the Eleventh of Edward the
911. Elder King of England; and the Eighth of the Pontig
ficate of Pope Sergius the IIId. A. D. 911.
And Chat-
Faiter.
We may venture to give our Opinion from the Hi-
ſtory of this Emperor, that his Sirname of Philofophus
was not ſo much artributed to him for his Politicks as
his Learning; he has thewn very little of the Stateſman
in his Reign ; his inaking an Alliance with the Infidels,
and his fondneſs of Samonas are not great Proofs of his
Political Wiſdom; what his Learning was is to be ſeen
by the Writings that are ſaid to be his: He wrote an
Epiftle to Believers, adviſing them to a Holy Life ; and
another to the Calyph of the Saracens, in Defence of the
Chriſtian Religion. Nine Orations were publiſh'd un
der his Name by P. Gretſer in the Year 1600 : Not-
withſtanding all which, whether they are Genuine or
not, we believe the Clergy gave him a good Word for
his Generoſity to Men of Learning; and if he was real,
ly a Philolopher, he has loſt pothing by the Character
given of him by the Authors who wrote his Hiſtory,
and were generally Monks, to whom he was always
kind, affecting to be Learned if he was not ſo indeed.
As to his Morals it does not appear that he was given to
any notorious Vice, and had his Fortune been berter,
perhaps bis Virtues might have hin'd more.
)
Chap. II.
59
A.D.
Alexander.
Solo
i
Alexander,
5
Norwithſtanding Conſtantine the Son of Leo had been
Crown'd in his Father's Life-time, yet conſidering
the difficulty of the Roman Affairs, and the Infancy of
the young Prince, who was not above five Years old,
Leo left the Crown to his Brother Alexander, conjuring
him by the remembrance of what he did for him, to let
his Son ſucceed him when he dy'd, in ſaying this to
him, he bad him, Beware of the Thirteenth Month, and
be careful of the ſafety of his Nephew Conſtantine. Alex-
ander was no ſooner in Poſſeſſion of the Sovereign
Power but he ſummond a Synod to meer in the Palace
of Magnaura, todepoſe the Patriarch Euthymius, and re-
ſtore Nicholas, who was ſtill alive, to his See. To uſe
the Words of Leo the Grammarian in his Life of this
Emperor. When Euthymius was turn'd out of the Patri.
archal Chair, the Biſhops pulld that Holy Man by. the
Beard, and us'd him barbarouſly ſeveral ways, which be en
dur'd with Chriſtian Patience. He dy'd ſhortly after
in the Monaſtery of Agatha, to which he was con-
fin'd.
Having by this ſtep reveng'd himſelf as he though
on his Brother's Friends, who were all for Euthymius, Alexan
and oblig'd a Powerful Faction that ſtill inclin'd to der'sVices,
Nicholas, he thought he might freely give himſelf over
to Pleaſure ; and accordingly as if the Empire had no
Enemies to fear, either in Europe or Afia, he ſpent his
whole time in Rior and Debauchery: He ad-
vanc'd and enricht the Companions of his Revels, and
was very defrous to have kis Nephew Conſtantine Ca.
Itrated, which had been done if fome Courtiers out of
Compaſſion to the young Prince, had not prevail'd with
him to put it off a while, alledging Conſtantine was of a
fickly Conſtitution, and probably might not live long,
whoſe Deach would remove his Fears without expoling
his Reputation to the Malice of the Multitude, to whom
he would become Odious by uſing ſuch Vialence towards
the Perſon of his Nephew and Pupil.
1
:
:
i
By
---
50
1
Chap. II.
The Roman Hiſtory.
+
A. D. By his rude Behaviour to the Bulgarian Ambaſſadors
911. he gave occafion to a new War between the Romans and
Bulgarians, and the Affairs of the Empire were reduc'd
already to the laſt Extremity ; All her Enemies prepa-
ring to make their Advantage of the Sloth and Wick-
edneſs of the Emperor. He was arriv'd at ſuch heighr
of Impiery, that he commanded Worſhip to be paid to
his God Bacchus; a proper Deity for ſo Drunken a
Monarch ; and ſeeing two fine Statues of Jupiter and
Mars that were brought from Rome, he ſaid, The Em-
pire had never flourißo'd ſince the Romans ceas'd to pay
them Divine Honour: He order'd the Silver Sconces
His Impie- of the
great Church to be made uſe of at the Celebra.
sy.
tion of bis Lewd Games, and burnt the Holy Tapers at
his Feſtivals. In the midſt of theſe Monſtrous Impie-
ties, it pleas'd God, in Mercy to the Romans, to call
him to Judgment ; for having drunk to Exceſs one Day,
be would however play at Tennis in the heat of the Sum-
His Deatk. mer, and what with the Violence of his Exerciſe, and
the Seaſon, he fell a bleeding at the Noſe, and at thoſe
parts which Modeſty forbids us to name, till he expir'd
912.
the 7th of June, Å. D. 912. having reign'd' one Year
and twenty ſeven Days. He left bis Nephew Conftan-
fine his Succeſſor, but appointed ſome of his lewd Fa-
vourites to be his Governours. The Empreſs Zoe who
had in vain oppos'd Alexander's Wicked Courſes, re-
turning to Court baniſh'd all thoſe Evil Counſellers, and
alum'd the Regency of her Son and the Empire.
.
Conſtantine VIII.
6
His Emperor was ſcarce ſeven Years old when his
Morher took the Government upon her. The Pa-
criarch Nicolas, tho' he was a Man of more Honeſty
than any of the late Miniſters, yet he had been a ſharer
in their Power, by Virtue of Alexander's Nomination :
The Empreſs continu'd him in the Adminiſtration, but
ailo'w'd him to act nothing without her. Zoe and Ni-
cold's Government was not very agreeable to the Temper
of the Greeks, they ſubmitted to the Dominion of a Wo-
şan or a Prieſt with regret: The World had not yet
ſeen
Chap. II.
61
Conſtantine VIII.
و
.
t
Was
ſeen any ſuch Glorious Inſtances of the Benefits of Fes A.D.
male Rule, as our Engliſh Hiſtory affords them in $120
Queen Elizabeth and Queen Anne, our Gracious Sove.
reign now Reigning ; and at all times it looke unnatu-
ral to ſee Perſons devored, as Prieſts are to the Service
of the Temple. uſurping the Management of the Buſi-
neſs of a Court. The number of the Malecontents
were not a few, and Conſtantin. Ducas having Policy
and Ambition enough to perceive it, was the more diſ-
pos'd to hearken to the Advice of ſome of his Friends,
who remonftrared that a Man of his Wiſdom and Cou-
rage, ſo worthy the Sovereign Power, ought not to fic
idle and ſee thoſe enjoy it that ſo little deſerv'd it. He
took Fire at the mention of the Sovereignty, and agreed
with them on means to effect what they propos' d to
him. They preſently haftend to the Caſtle, and ſum-
moning their Friends thither from all Parts, they got
Contan-
a great Multitude together, by whom Conſtantine
Proclaim'd Emperor in the Circus. The Regent ha tine Ducas
rebels.
ving notice of the Tumult, ſent a Party of Soldiers to
diſperſe them: The Rebels made a vigorous reſiſtance
till Conſtantine was knockt off his Horſe, and his
Head cut off, at which fight his Followers were diſo
courag'd and routed; the Chief of them were made
Examples to the reſt of the Empire. Thus Zoe's Au- And is
thority was confirm'd by the Methods that were intend-Shein.
ed for its Deſtruction.
The Bulgarians at the ſame time invaded the Empire,
and advanc'd to the Gates of Conſtantinople, which Ci-
ty was defended ſo reſolutely by the Inhabitants, that
Simeon hearken'd to a Treaty of Peace propos'd to him
by the Roman Government. 'Twas almoſt brought to
a Concluſion, and Simeon Din'd with the Emperor, who.
preſenting him with many Valuable Gifts, the Bulgarian
drew off his Army: However the Peace did not take
effeck, and Thrace was expos'd again to the Fury of
the Enemy. Simeon made himſelf Maſter of Adriano. $138
ple by the Treachery of Pantrutricus, an Armenian, who
deliver'd it to him ; and the Wait he committed in
the Empire fo provok'd the Romans, that woe reſolv'd to
conclude a Peace on any Terms with the Saracens, that
The inight be enabled to draw the Army out of via to
extirpate the Bulgarian Monarchy. But though the
Peace
6
Chap. II
The Roman Hiſtory.
A
1
A. D. Peace was concluded, and the Eaſtern Army employ'd
912. againſt Simeon, yet the Romans were unſucceſsful. The
Grand Domeſtick, Leo, was routed, and Romanus the
Patrician, who was ſent up the Danube with a Fleet to
aflift Leo, came off with no berter Fortune. The Con.
federate Forces that were in the Imperial Army percei.
ving Romanus was always quarrelling with John, the
Son of Bardas, and apprehending their Differences wouta
ruin the Enterprize, march'd home, and the Roman Ge-
Romanus nerals were oblig'd to return to Conſtantinople. Roma-
try'd and nus was try'd for Miſmanagement, and condemnd to
sondem'do loſe his Eyes; which Sentence had been executed on
him, had not Two of the Empreſs's Favourites, Con.
ftantinus Conigulus and Stephen, interceded in his Behalf.
The Bulgarians encourag'd by the Retreat of the Romans;
invaded the Empire, and march'd up to the Gates of
Conſtantinople. Leo was order'd to oppoſe them with
what Forces were ready. The Enemy falling upon
him on a ſudden, defeated him, kill'd a great Numbet
of his Men, and among the reſt Nicholas, the Son of
Ducas, who was ſlain in the late Rebellion.
917
Conſtantine's Preceptor being gain'd to Romanus's In-
tereft, perſuaded him to advance that Officer to the
Poſt of Dringare, or Captain of the Night-Guard in
the Imperial Palace, a Place of equal Truſt and Ho-
nour : He reprefented to the Young Emperor that Ro-
manus had always been Faithful to his Father Leo, and
chat Conftantine the Chamberlain deſign'd to advance
Leo Phocas, who had marry'd his Daughter to the So-
vereign Power. Romanus being admitted into the Em-
peror's Confidence, order'd ſome Mariners who be-
long'd to his Galley, (for he alſo commanded the Fleer)
co feiže the Perſon of the Chamberlain, and carry him
aboard ; which was done as he would have had it, no
Body offering to oppoſe him. When the Empreſs be-
gan to expoftulate with her Son about the Chamber-
lain's Misfortune, the Emperor's Preceptor told her
plainly, that Leo Phocas's Conduct had ruin'd the Staré,
and Conſtantine s Adminiſtration reduc'd the Publické
Affairs to the Extremity they were in. The Emperor,
alſo declard he would take che Governinent on him
ſeif, and ſent Tubacius to his Mother the Regent, to de-
ate the would leave the Imperial Palace, but by her
Sittis
Chap. II.
Conftantinus VIIÍ.
63
bis 07972
;
Sighis, T'ears, and tender Embraces the prevail'd upon A. D.
him to permit her to ſtay there. By Romanus's Pro- 918.
curement Garidas was made General of the Army, and He gets the
theſe Two Officers enter'd into a cloſe friendſhip for Power imig
the Advancement of their mutual Intereſts. Leo find-
Hands:
ing the Party that was form'd againſt him would be too
powerful for him, humbled himſelf to Romanus, and
implor'd his Protection. The latter knowing Leo was
belov'd by the Army, thougbt it to be for his Advan-
tage to temporize a little, and pretending to join with
Leo, by his Affittance clear'd the Court of ſuch as he
imagin'd would make any Oppoſition to his future De-
figns. Accordingly he turn'd out all thoſe that he had
any Diffidence of; and having got all in his Power,
he took a Solemn Oath in the Church of the Pharos,
never to act contrary to his Fidelity to Conſtantine. Leo
was commanded to confine himſelf to his Houſe and
Conſtantine the Chamberlain was alſo impriſon'd. In
the Beginning of the enſuing Year Romanus marry'd his 919.
Daughter Helena to the Emperor : They were both
Crown'd by the Patriarch Nicholas. Romanus was de. But inco*
clar'd Pater Imperatoris ; and Chriſtopher, his eideft etup.
Son, Grand Heteriarch, or Caprain of the Guard of Fo-
reigners, a Poſt of the higheſt Honour in the Byzantine
Einpire.
Leo, who in Confidence of Romanus's promis'd
Friendſhip had paſt over into Aſia to look after his pri-
vate Affairs, hearing what had paſt at Court, took Leo Pho-
Arms, and diſpatch'd away Couriers to his Friends at
cas ufurpss"
Conſtantinople, particularly to Conſtantine the Chamber-
lain, to delire them to prepare to aſſiſt him againſt the
new Miniſtry, their Common Enemies. Some Perſons
of Quality, and many private Men join'd him. To
whom Romanus fent the Emperor's Pardon, ſeal'd with
the Golden Bull, if they would abandon Fhocas. There
Letters Patents were convey'd to the Rebels by Anne
a Strumpet, and one Michael a Prielt: The latter bes
ing taken, was cruelly baſtinadod by Leo's Coinmand;
his Noſe and Ears were cut off : For which the Emper
ror liberally rewarded bim. And the Strumper receiv'd
alſo the effects of the Imperial Bouncy for her Negoria-
tion among the Soldiery, ſome of whom delerred
Eco and others were diſpos'd to do the ſame. Which
64
The Roman Hiſtory,
Chap. II
A. D. Romanus underſtanding, he got other Letters written in
219. the Emperor's Name to the Rebels. Simeon, Keeper
of the Imperial Seal, was diſpatch'd away with them.
They contain'd the Reaſons of his Favour to Romanus,
and a Declaration that Leo Phocæs was a Trayror. Theſe
Letters being read, moſt of the Chief Mutineers went
over to the Emperor's Army ; and Leo having no City
to fly to, was apprehended at Goeleum in Bithynia. Ro-
manus order'd Fohn, the Son of Tubacius, and Leo, a
Relation of his, to fetch Phocas over. Theſe Meffen-
gers, as ſoon as they had him in their Cuſtody, puc
our his Eyes, without any warrant from the Emperor
or his Father-in-Law.
In Auguſt, Conſtantine Ctematurus, David Cumalion,
and Michael, Keeper of the Stores, were condemn'd to
be whipr and baniſht for conſpiring to raiſe another Se-
Éte is
dition; and Zoe, the Emperor's Mother, being convicta
blinded.
ed of attempting to poiſon Romanus, was thruſt out
of the Palace, and ſhut up in the Monaſtery of St. Eu-
phemia at Petrium. Theodore, the Emperor's Preceptor,
and Simeon, his Brother, were ſeiz'd and banilh'd to
their Houſes in the Province of Oxificium,
Conſt. VIII. Romanus Lacaperius.
THE
HE 14th of September Romanus was created Cæfar,
Romanus and on the 17th of December following he was
is Crown'd Crown'd by the Patriarch Nicholas. Shortly after his
Wife Theodora was alſo Crown'd; and his eldeſt Son
Cliriſtopher the 17th of May in the following Year.
920. Romanus laving, as he hopd, ſecur'd the Empire to
his Family, ſet himſelf to oppoſe her Energies abroad.
He ſent Pothus, the Son of Argyrus, againſt the Bulga-
rians. Pothus came off as unfortunately as thoſe who
had carry'd on that War before him ; his Troops were
defeated, and the Bulgarians making an Irruption as far
as Maglabus, overthrew another Body of the Romans,
coinmanded by Pothus and other Generals. The Enea
my burnt the Palace of the Fountain, and deſtroy'd the
921, neighbouring Country:
in
1
---
Chap. II. Conſt. VIII. Romanus Lacapenus. * 65
--
1
's
In February, Theodora, Romanis's Wife, dy'd, and A. D.
Sophia, che Wife of his Son Chriſtopher was Crown'd. 921.
In June the Bulgarians made another Inroad into the The Bul-
Roman Territories, and burnt the Pallace of St. Theo-garians too
hard forthe
dora. Romanus muſter'd all his Troops, and ſeem'd re- Romans
ſolv'd to aſſert the Majeſty of the Empire, and chaſtiſe
the Barbarians ; but Şaetitius, whom he order'd to ar-
tack them, being routed and mortally wounded, the
Romans fled, and the Barbarians committed their uſual
Waft and Rapine. Beſides theſe Foreign Enernies,
there were ſeveral Domeſtick Conſpiracies that threa-
tend the Ruin of Romanus's Fortune, the Romans re-
ſer:ted that he preſum'd to have his Name pur before
their Lawful Emperor Conſtantine's in the Publick Ads
and Acclamations, and to have Precedence of him :
However Romanus detected the Contrivances of his
Enemies, Puniſh'd and Triumph'd over all of them, till
his own Family roſe againſt him. The Saracens were
roured at Sea by Radrius the Patrician, Vice-Admiral
of the Imperial Navy, and all the Foes to the Ernpea
rors and the Empire were quier, except Simeon, King
of Bulgaria, who ravag'd Thrace and Macedonia, carry
ing the Terror of his Arms to the Gates of Conſtantino-
ple; which City he belieg'd with the ſame Succeſs as
formerly. He was always baulk'd here ; and being
weary of the War, ſent to the Parriarch to propoſe a
Peace. Commiſſioners were appointed to treat with
him ; to whom he extolld the Wiſdom and the Valour
of the Emperor Romanus, defiring a Conference with
him. He conſented to it :. Norwithſtanding which Si-
meon continu'd his Acts of Hoftility, and burnt the
Church of Our Lady at the Fountain. Simeon orderd
ſome of his Courriers to view and cxamine the Place of
Interview, 40 prevent Treachery. The Emperor rode
thither at the Time appointed ; and Simeon ſeeing him
approach, alighted off his Horſe to falute hiin. The An Enter:
Conference beginning, we are told Romanus made a vien hea
long Speech to the King of Bulgaria in Praiſe of Peace, imeen Ro.
if you are a Chriſtian indeed, faid Romanus, put a pint manus and
to the Maſſacres you commit, and don't force Believers to
Sinieon
ſtain their Hands mith ibe Blood of their Brethren. You
King of
know you muſt dye, muſt riſe again, and come to Fudgment
. Bulgaria.
To Dny you are alive, to Morromp you may return to the
-
A
66
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
928.
52.
A. D.
Duſt of which you are form’d. A Fever is ſufficient to
921. abare your Pride. How will you anſwer before God for the
many Murders that you have been guilty of? If you want
Money, i have enough to ſatisfie you, &c. The Speech
is at large in Leo the Grammarian's Hiſtory of Conftan.
tine VIII. and he affirms, that the Bulgarian was ſo con-
founded by the Emperor's Wiſdom and Moderation, he
Apeace be-could not ſay a Word in his own Defence: The Peace
tweenthem. was immediately concluded ; and Simeon having receiv'd
many magnificent Preſents from Romanus , return'd
Home.
On the 25th of December, Anno 928. Romanus or-
der'd his Two Sons. Stephen and Conſtantine, to be
Crown'd. In May following the Patriarch Nicholas
dy'd, and Stephen, Arch-Biſhop of Amaſea, an Eunuch,
was put in his place. Two Months after another Plot
was diſcover'd, and the Offenders punifht. A terrible
Earthquake happen'd, by which ſeveral Churches, with
a valt Number of People in them at their Devotions,
were ſwallow'd up.
On the 25th of May, A. D. 932. Simeon, King of
Bulgaria, the great Enemy of the Empire, dy'd, and
left his Son Peter his Succeffor ; who marrying Mary,
Daughter of Chriſtopher, Romanus's eldeſt Son, con-
firin'd the Peace with the Romans, though nor till he
had almoſt ruin'd them by a terrible Irruption. At the
Celebration of his Marriage with the Princeſs, Chri-
Stcpber was ſuffer'd to take Place of the Emperor Con-
Piantine to pleaſe the Bulgarians, as was pretended.
This Alliance was follow'd by an Advantage, which
the Romans had not been accuſtom'd to lately over the
Barbarians. Carcuas, Romanus's General in Syria, un-
derſtanding that on the Death of Apocadlus, Caliph of
Melitena, the People of that Country were at Vari-
ance among themſelves about a Succeffor, invaded their
Territories, took the Capital City, and reduc'd the
ke Ro
whole Country into the form of a Province, from
cuer Meli-whence the Emperor drew vaſt Revenues yearly.
Écoa from Nicetas, whoſe Daughter Prince Chriſtopher had mare
ale Sara- ry'd, being accus'd of endeavouring to arm his Son-
ceas, in. Law agaivit Riminis, was mav'd and thruſt into a
Monafery. Ard Stephen the Patriarch dying, the Em-
peror on the 2d of February mnade his Son Theophilaétus
though
Dans Coni-
1
1
Chap. IL Conft. VIII. Romanus Lacapenug.
67
though ſcarce Fifteen Years of Age, Patriarch, the A. D.
Monk Tryphon exerciſing the Patriarcbal Functions in
933
his Name. To pleaſe the People, he was very Liberal
in his Charity to them in a Seaſon ſo ſevere, that many
dyd of the Cold, and many inore would have perill'd
had he not reliev'd them. In the enſuing Year Chri-
ftopher dy'd, and in that which follow'd Theophilačtus
took the Government of the Conſtantinopolitan Church
on himſelf. His Brother Stephen was marry'd to Anne,
Daughter of Gabalas, and Conſtantine, his other Bro-
ther, to Helena, Daughter of Adrian the Patrician.
The Scythians making an Irruption into the Empire,
Inhabitants
were defeated by Theophanes ; who alſo deftroy'd a
Fleet of Rullians that enter'd the Euxine, and threaten'a of Lodolia
in Poland.
the City of Conſtantinople with a Siege. Carcuas was
ſent for out of Aſia, to oppoſe theſe new Invaders, and
he cut off their Parties that had landed on cbe Coats of
the Boſphorus to rob and ſpoil the Country. Theophanes
beat and entirely ruin'd them in a Second Naval Com.
bat, for which he was honour'd with the Dignity of
Lord Chamberlain. In the Year following the Scythi-
942.
ans again invaded the Roman Territories, whom Tiseo-
phanes again oppos d, and forc'd them to beg a Truce,
which was agreed on for Five Years. Theophilus, Gover-
nor of part of Meſopotamia, that was ſtill ſubject to the
Roman Emperor, obrain'd a conſiderable Victory; and
Romanus's Army was every where proſperous : His
Fame ſpread through the whole world, and the Empire
began to lift up her Head, after ſhe had for many Ages
been the Contempt of her Neighbours ; but thc Divi-
fions among her Sons ſooni put an end to the Hopes dhe
had conceiv'd of continuing, if not of enlarging her
Dominion. In the Year 944. Romanus, the Son of
9415
Conſtantine VIII, by Helena, the Daughter of the Em-
peror Romanus, was marry'd to Bertha, the Daughter
of Hugh, King of Italy, and that Emperor thonght his
Happineſs would be as Long as it was Grear, when
on a ſudden the Almighty rais'd him up an Enemy, that
his Policy could nor foreſee, nor his Power Tubrue.
For above Twenty Years we have bad little mention Conítan-
mnade of the true Emperor Conſtantine, who either de. tine loves
ſpair'd of recovering his Authority, or was ſo well fa-rading
kisfy'd with his Retirement, that he was not follicitous
Fi
1
-
+
68
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
A.D. to leave it. He ſpent his Time in Reading, and made
944. "himſelf Maſter of ſeveral Arts and Sciences, as Philo-
ſophy, Geometry, Aſtronomy, Hiſtory, Mufick. He
compild a very Magnificent Library in bis Pallace :
He a bridged leveral Volumnious Authors: Two of his
Treaties, one of Embaſſies, the other of the Virtues and
L'ices, were publiſhe by Peireſe: He ſtudy'd Phyfick,
wroie of Agriculture, and by this ftrenuous Applica-
tion to Reading, Romanus believ'd he did not think of
affuming the Sovereign Power, of which he had only
the Name. His Colleague's Opinion of his Indifference
perhaps contributed to his Safety : And Conftantine
was really lo indifferent, that for many Years he did
not trouble himſelf about the Adminiſtration of Affairs,
At laſt he obſerv'd that. Stephen, Romanus's Second Son,
was fo ambitious, that he might eaſily be drawn into a
Conſpiracy againſt his Father, if there were Hopes of
his Reigning after Romanus's Dethronement ; he there-
fore engag'd Two of his Friends, Bafilius Volucer and
Murianus a Monk, the Son of Leo Argyrus, to propoſo
his joining with Conftantine, and to aſſure him his Bro-
ther-in-Law would be glad to Mhare the Empire with
hin. Stephen hearken'd to the Propofition, and by the
Afiftance of their mutual Friends Romanus was ſeiz'd,
Rorganus Mav'd, and thruſt into the Monaſtery of Prota on the
phruſt into 16th of December, after he had been in Poffeffion of
a Monafte- the Imperial Power Twenty Years.
7y
Constantine, Brother of Stephen, perceiving he was
likly to loſe by the Depoſition of his Father, hated Ste-
phen, who procur'd it; and the Difference between
thrm growing greater every Day, Conſtantine the Em-
peror pretending to mediate a Reconciliation, invited
them to an Entertainment at his Palace: They were both
apprehended, banitht, and hav'd on the oth of Janua
ary following. They defir'd Leave to vi&t their Father
in the land of Prota, where they found him dreſt like
themelves in a Monkiſh Habit. They all wept at
this meiancholy Meeting; and when their Viſit was
over, Stepben was confin'd ar Melitena, bore his Mif
fortunes with a Chriſtian Courage ; but Conſtantine,
who was ſent to Samothracia, endeavouring to make
his Elcape, was kill'd by his Guards.
A
Conſtantine
Chap. II.
)
Conſtantine VIII.
6.0
Conſtantine VIII.
A. D.
9450
TH HE Emperor being reſtord to his former Dignity,
made Baſilius, a Chief Inftrument in his Reſtaura.
çion, Captain of the Guard of Foreigners, and order'd
Marianus to throw alide his Monkiſh Habir, to take
on him the Ofice of Maſter of the Horſe: Others he
rewarded as they deſerv'd from him. Theophila£lus the
Patriarch, and Theophanes the Chamberlain, who ow'd
all bis Fortune to Romanus's Favour, conſpir'd to re-
eſtablith him in the Empire. They communicated
their Deſign to him, and he conſented to it; but the
Conſpiracy breaking out, the Conſpirators were ſevere.
ly puniſht. Theophanes was baniſht, others put to the
Torture ; and though the Patriarch's Perſon was Sacred,
yet by the Conteinpt he met with from the People,
who follow'd the Example of the Court, his Punithoient
was as grievous to him as Baniſhment would have
been.
On the 15th of Fuly Romanus dy'd in the Monaſtery
wherein he was confin'd. Romanus, the Son of Stephen,
was caſtrated, and the Emperor Conſtantine had nothing
to fear from the Family of that Emperor. He ſent
Bardas Phocas and his 'Two Sons, Nicephorus and 2:0,
into the Eaſt, to invade the Caliph's Territories. Leo
overthrew Apoiulemus, a Relation of the Caliph, and
taking him Prifoner, fent him to Constantinople ; where
the Emperor inſolently led him through the City in
Triumph, treading upon his Neck, which ſo provok'd
the Barbarians, that they made an Irruption into the
Empire, and committed greater Spoil than ever. All
the Priſoners they took were forc'd to alsjure their Re-
ligion,' or were cruelly corinenred. Nicetas the Parri.
cian being one of them, by his Flattery and Cunning
ſo wroughr upon the Caliph, that he eſcap d the Treat-
ment the others met with, and was admitted into the
Confidence of the Barbarian ; who communicating his
Deſigns to him, Nicetis found Means to inform Birdas
Phocas of them. The Romans laid an Ambuſh to fur-
prize hiin,and knowing which way he was to march, feil
upora
70
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. II.
A. D. upon him unawares, and cut off moſt of his Army. Ni-
945. cetas, by bribing his
Keepers, got his Liberty, and
fled into the Roman Territories. The other Priſoners
that were in the Infidel's Poſſeſſion, had their Throats
cur, to revenge bis Loſs by the Treachery of Nicetas.
Conſtantine, encourag'd by theſe Succeſſes, made an
unſucceſsful Attempt in the Inand of Crete, where Gon-
gulas, his General, was entirely defeated, and with
much Difficulty recover'd his Ships. The Saracens in
Aſia were alſo more fortunate than in their laſt Expe-
ditions ; and Romanus, the Emperor's Son, being fer on
by Theophania, his Second Wife, to take on him the
Sovereignty, laid the Fault of all the Management to
his Father's Age and Incapacity; when he found
he could not incite the Romans to an Inſurrection in
his Favour, he procur'd him to be poiſon'd on the oth
of November 859. Some other Authors write that he
dy'd of a. Difemper in a Journey he was making to
Mount Olympus, whicher he was going to have the
Prayers of the Monks of that Monaſtery, for a Bleffing
on his Arms, in an Expedicion he pretended he was
abour to make againſt the Saracens ; though his real De-
ſign was to paſs over into Aſia, to confer with Theodorus
Biſhop of Cyzicus how to expel Polyeuctus, Patriarch
of Conſtantinople, who had ſucceeded Theophila&tus, and
whom Conſtantine bared for affronting Nicephorus Phocas,
his Favourite. Nicephorus had marry'd a Second Wife
before his Firſt was dead, and the Patriarch refus'd' him
Admitrance into bis Church on that Accounr. Phocas
sail'd at him to the Emperor, and Conſtantine not find-
ing the Prelate fo complaiſant as he expected in ſatisfy-
ing his Favourite, cook an Averſion to Polyeuétus. There
was great Cauſe co ſuſpect that the Emperor was not
fairly dealt by ; for ſome Time before, as he was
Conan- about to drick a Porion that had been preſcrib'd him
tine poy- by his Phyſicians, bis Foot happen'd to nip, and the
fond by Draught was ſpilt, which though it had not the Effect
procitrea intended , yet the little of it the Emperor had
ment of his ſwaliowd, ſo diſcompos'a bim, that he never was well
after it. This Potion is ſaid to be poiſon'd by Nicetas,
Curopalat
one of his Houfhold Servants, by Procurement of Ro-
Not long after this Accident Stones fell from
abors into his Bed Chamber. He order'd Search to be
made
1
Son
171015.
Chap. II.
7!
Conſtantine VIII.
made, and a Warch to be kept, buc'twas in vain; for, A, B.
as the Greek Author writes, they could diſcover no 859
Treaſon, the Stones being flung down by Divine Vene
geance. He was indeed a Prince of as few Virtues as
any Man ever poſfelt, who had read and contemplared
ſo much as he had done. He lov'd Drinking to Ex-
ceſs, was Careleſs, Severe, and Timerous; his good
Qualities were his Learning, and an exemplary Zeal His Cher
raider.
in his Devotions, whether true or falle, we hall not
pretend to decide. He dy'd in the Fifty-fifth Year of
his Age, having reign'd One Year and One Month
with his Unkle Alexander, Seven with bis Mother,
Twenty-five with Romanus Lacapenus, and Sixteen
alone, in all Fifty Years. He was ſucceeded by kis
Son, the Second Romanus, in the Twenty-fourth Year
of the Reign of Otho the Great, Emperor of Germany;
the Firit of Edgar, King of England; the Sixth of 1.0-
thair, King of France, of the Race of Charlemagne ;
and the Fifth of Pope John XII. A. D. 859.
859.
Romanus II.
)
TH HIS Emperor had been Crown'd in his Father's
Life-cime; he was Sirnam'd the Bix, to diitinguish
him from his Grandfather; his Education had been Romanus's
bad, his Father neglecting the Care of ir, as he did il! Edulla
that of the Government. Nature had qualify'd him for 169,
the Exerciſe of his High Ofice. He wanted not Wit
nor Capacity, but he had been bred up in Luxury,
and had the Example of a lohful Father to lead hiu
out of the way in which he ought to have walkt. All
thoſe Romans that were banilli'd by Constantine for
Crimes, let them be never ſo heinous, he recallid, and
was govern'd by Foſeph, his Chamberlain, a Man of no
Merit, who incourag'd him in his Debauche; ies, with
an Intention to engroſs the whole Adminiitration to hiin.
ſelf. Nicephorus Phocas had the Chief Command of
the Army: He was a Man of Quality Famous for
many Illuſtrious Actions in tbe Service of the Staie, and
fa Popular, that 'twas plain be would be a dangerous
Perſon if he waa not faithful. This Geacial k.owing
72
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap: II.
!
A. D. what a great Damage the Pirates of Crete did to the Re-
889. man Commerce, and what the Sea-Coafts had fuffer'd
by the Deſcents of the Saracens of that Iſand, advis'd
the Emperor to equip a Fleet, and put an Army aboard
to attempt its Recovery. Nicephorus having Orders
from Romanus to undertake that Expedition, fail'd thi.
ther in the Second Year of Romanus’s Reign made a
961. Deſcent, took ſeveral Towns, amd garriſon'd them
Nicepho with Romans, the Saracens nor being able to put a Ștop
rus Phocas
to his Conqueſts. He had in all Probability entirely
in Crete. reduc'd the Iſland, had nor Foſeph, Romanus's Favourité,
infinuated, that he aſpir'd to the Sovereignty, and was
not to be truſted further, ſaying, there was an Old Tra-
dition, That he who made himſelf Maſter of Crete, would
foon be Mafer of the Empire : So Nicephorus was re-
call'u, and ſent into the Eaſt, where he gain'd ſeveral
And in the Victories over the Infidels; and his Brother Leo, who
Euft. commanded there before him, was ſo ſucceſeful againſt
the Saracens in Afia, that he triumph'd for it at Conſtan-
tinople. Nicephorus took the City of Berrhæa in Syriä,
ſuppos’d by ſome Geographers to be the Modern Aleppo.
In this City he found a vaſt Treaſure, which, together
with the Caprives he brought from thence, was expos'd
to che View of the People when he made his Trium-
phant Entry into the Imperial City.
umplos.
In the mean Time Romanus abandon'd himſelf to all
manner of Debauchery; he drove his Mother out of
the Palace for reproving him, and us'd his Siſters fo ill,
that they were forc'd to proſtitute themſelves for Sub-
fiitence. His Lewdneſs and Sloth made him odious
and contemprible to all the World. His Wife Theopha-
nia hared him for his Sortiſhneſs and Inconſtancy; and
Nicephorus's Conqueſts render'd his Character ſo much
ſuperior to his Maſter's, that 'twas no wonder the Em-
preſs and the Romans were charm'd with him; and their
Roma-
Love to him might have been Faral to the Emperor,
Aur's Degil had not his Intemperance Thorten'd his Life and Reign,
which prevented the ill Deſigns that were forming ào
963. gainſt him. He Died on the 15th of March, A. 0.963.
having Reign'd Three Years Four Months.
His Son Bifilil's he had order'd co be Crown'd-in bis
Lifetime. He had another Son, Conftantine, of whom
we hall bear more in the Sequel of this Hiſtory. The
Empreſs
He Tri-
-
Chap. II.
73
Romanus II.
Empreſs was declar'd Regent, and her Eyes and the A. D.
Eyes of all the Empire being on Nicephorus, as a Perſon 863,
fit to be her Companion in the Government. She mar-
ry'd him, and he was falured Emperor by the Army Nicepho-
firit
, and by the Citizens of Conſtantinople afterwards
. Nicepho;
The Chamberlain Foſeph oppos'd his Advancement to Emperor,
the utmoſt of his Power, but his Oppoſition was in vain:
The Rabble roſe upon him and his Faction, pullid
down thir Houſes, and Joſeph himſelf was Banith'd to
Paphlagonia. The Patriarch Polyeuctus Crown'd Nice-
phorus on the 16th. of Auguſt. However, reſenting
that he ſhould 'offer to marry Theopbania, contrary to
the Canon which forbad Marriages between the Mother
and Godfather of a Child, he deny'd Nicephorus Ad-
mitrance to his Chứrch, becauſe he had formerly ſtood
Godfather to one of Theophania's Children. A Synod
was callid to examine the Matter. The Emperor was
abſoly'd, and he was reſtor'd to Ecclefiaftical Commu-
nion ; but he never forgave the Patriarch the Affront
he put upon him.
Nicephorus II.
mans.
TH HE Roman Garriſons in Crete maintaining their
Crete con
Ground, ſuch Reinforcements were ſent thither, as
quer'd by
enabid them to drive the Infidels out of the Iſland.
the Roo
This Encouragement tempted Nicephorus to try bis For-
tune in Sicily, whither he diſpatch'd away his Couſin
Manuel, Son of his Unkle Leo, with a ſufficient Power
to maſter that Iſland ; but his Army was overthrown by
the Raſhneſs of their General, and that Enterprize came
to nothing
In Afia the Romans were more Fortunate. Fohin Zi- John Zi-
miſces their Commander, routed the Saracens in Cilicia, miſces for
and made fuch a terrible Slaughter of them, that the tunate in
Place of Bacile has ever fince been calld the Bloody Alia.
Hill, it being on an Eminence.
In the Year enſuing Nicephorus himſelf paſt over into
Cilicia,' took ſeveral "Cities, and leaving ſtrong Garri. 864.
ſons in them; return'd to Conſtantinople, interding to
open the next Campaign with the Siege of Mopfi. fict,
Capit:
"
w
94
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
1
ance,
A. D. Capital of the Province of Caramania in Aſia Minor.
864. While he was in the Eaſt, his Lieutenant in Cyprus
drove the Saracens out of that Iſland. Early in the
Spring he paſt the Streight, and took the Field. He
divided his Army into two Bodies. Himſelf command-
ed one, with which he lay down before Mopſuefta ;
and his Brother Leo, with the other, beſiegʻd Tarſus,
in Cilicia. Theſe two Cities were of very great Impor-
fance: They were ſtrong, rich and great ; and the Ro-
mans were reſolv'd to reduce them, coft what it would.
Mopfue. Their Reſolution diſhearten'd the Barbarians; Mopſueſt a
fta and fell firſt into the Emperor's Hands; Tarſus held out
Tarſus tt- but a few Days after the Inhabitants heard of the
ken by Ni-Fate of Mopſueſta: They ſurrender'd the City three
cephorus. Days before a Fleet arriv'd from Ægypt to their Affift-
The Saracens attempted to land; but Leo re-
ceiv'd them fo bravely, that they were forc'd to retire
to their Ships and return home. In their Paſſage back
They met with a Storm which deſtroy'd moſt of theirFleet,
and the Ships that eſcap'd the Fury of the Tempelt,
were taken by the Romans, who were ſent to purſue
them.
The Emperor's next Enterprize was the Siege of An-
tioch, the Miſtreſs of Aſia, which City had been in the
Hands of the Infidels above three Hundred and thirty
Years. In his March he conquer'd moſt of the Cities of
Syria, and annext them to the Empire. Antioch was
defended by a numerous Garriſon, and the Winter Sea.
fon approaching, Nicephorus left the Army before the
Antioch
Town was taken. His Lieutenant Rurtzas ſurpriz'd
caktn.
the City in his Abſence; and 'tis ſaid, the Emperor
might have reduc’d'it himſelf, had he not been deter'd
898. by a Prophecy, That whatever Emperor took that City,
he ſhould not long ſurvive the Conqueſt of it. Inſtead of
rewarding Burtzas for lo conſiderable a piece of Sere
vice to the Empire, out of Envy, or Jealouſie, he re-
mov'd him from his Command in the Eaſt, which diſ-
pos'd him to enter into the Party of John Zimiſces, who
thought he was himſelf as worthy of the Imperial Dig-
nity as Nicephorus; and he was ſo little encourag'd by
John Zi- the Emperor, that he grew diſcontented. The Num-
miſces diſ ber of Malecontents was increas'd by Nicephorus's Con-
contented duct, which, cho'glorious in the Field, was impolitick
al
--
Chap. II.
75
Nicephorus II.
at Court. He permitted the Soldiery to live too licen: A. D.
tiouſly. He loaded his Subjects with Taxes, and was 896.
coverous without Meaſure. He ſtopp'd all the Penſions Nicephe
that had been granted in former Reigns, whether to Ec. rus's ill
Adminis
clefiaftical or Civil Perſons. He offended the Prieſts,
by making a Law, that no more Lands ſhould be given Stration,
to the Church; and this very Law was enough to fully
all his Victories, and ruin his Reputation in Hiſtory,
fince thoſe very Prieſts were the only Men that in thoſe
Days tranſmitted Things to Pofterity: He debas'd the
Current Coin, and by various Oppreffions became odi-
ous to the People, to whom he was once dear. He
knew his own Guilt, and fear'd a Puniſhment anſwer-
able to his Crimes. To defend himſelf againſt the Re-
fentments of the Multitude, he fortify'd his Palace, ere-
cted Granaries and Magazines within it, ftord them
with all ſort of Neceffaries and Proviſions, and ſold
the Corn at a double Price to the Poor, there happening
a ſcarce Year afterwards. The Empreſs her ſelf was
diſguſted that her Son Baſilius had not been aſſociated,
with him, and the more, becauſe the perceiv'd he in-
tended to declare his Brother Leo bis Succeſſor : Be-
fides, he was nor the moſt Conftant, nor the leaſt Amo-
rous Lady in the World. Nicephorus's Military Virtues,
did not agree with the ſoftneſs of her Conſtitution. He
choſe to lye on the Ground, rather than upon a Bed,
having been usd to Hardſhips from his Youth. She was
weary of him, and Zimiſces being the Darling of the
People, and of the Army, he alſo became her's, tho
iswas not what he deſir'd or approvd, having other
Deſigns in view. The Complaint againſt Nicephorus's
Adminiſtration growing general, all the Malecontents
apply'd to Zimifces to redreſs their Grievances. Theo-
phania alſo implor'd him to protect her Sons. Accord.
ingly a Conſpiracy was form’d to deſtroy Phocas, who,
'cis ſaid, found a Writing on his Table a few Days be-
fore his Death, warning him to beware of John Zimiſ-
ces; upon which he ſent to his Brother Leo to come to
his Defence, with his Friends in Arms. Leo happen'd
to be playing at Cheſs, when he receiv'd the Lecter,
and being very fond of the Game, did not ope! it, till
cwas too late. At the time appointed for the Executi-
on of their Plor, the Conſpirators were adrated into
the
96
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
the Imperial Palace by the Empreſs's Means. They
found the Emperor alleep in a Bear's Skin on the Ground ;
Zimifces kick'd him to awake him, and as he roſe Aba-
lantius, another of the Conſpirators, ftruck him on the
Head with his Sword; Nicephorus cry'd out, Lord have
Joka Zi- Mercy upon me; and then the other Conſpirators cut off
miſces and his Head. The Guards receiving the Allarm, began
his fellow to ſtir in his Defence; but when they ſaw his Head,
Conſpira- which the Conſpirators held out at the Window, they
der bin.
were quiet, ſeeing 'twas in vain for them to reſiſt their
Deſigns. Thus fell the Einperor Nicephorus Phocas, a
Prince as much hated for his Avarice, as he was ad-
mir'd for his Valour and Victories. He was kill'd the
i1th. of December, in the Fifty Seventh Year of his
Age, and the Seventh of his Reign; the Thirty Fourth
of Otho, the great Emperor of Germany; the Twentieth
of Edgar, King of England; the Twenty Fourth of
Lothair, King of France; and the Firſt of Foln the
Thirteenth, Pope of Rome, A. D. 969.
mars 7247-
969.
John Zimiſces
ON the Death of Nicephorus
, the Sovereign Autho,
rity fell to Zimiſces, as the only perſon who could
maintain himſelf in the Throne, by his Intereſt both in
the Army and City. However, to pleaſe thoſe that
were affected to the two Princes, Bafilius and Conftan-
ine, the Sons of Romanus, he aſſociated them with him
in the Empire. He marry'd Theodora, Daughter of
Conſtantine VIII, and Siſter to Romanus, taking little
notice of the Empreſs Theophania, for whom he thought
he had done enough, in making her two Sons his Cole
legues.
His next Care was to receive the Imperial Diadem
from the Hands of the Patriarch, who abſolutely re-
fus'd to Crown him, till he had promis'd to Banih
Theophania, and all thoſe that had any hand in the Mur:
der of the Emperor Nicephorus, from Court. This was
thought to be a Contrivance of Zimifces, to have an Ex-
cule to get rid of the Empreſs Dowager, for whom he
had an Averſion; and 20 Princes liking the Traytors,
cho
$
Chap. II.
77
į
John Zimifces
tho they may love the Treaſon, he wanted a fair Pre. A. D.
tence to ſend away thoſe that had been inſtrumental in 962.
his Advancement. The Patriarch oblig'd him to reſtore
all the Goods that had been taken from the Church, and
recall thoſe Prieſts, who had been Baniſht for oppoſing
Nicephorus; and when Theophania was fhut up in a
Monaſtery, Polieuctus, who ſtill far in the Patriarchal
Throne of Conftantinople
, Crownd John Zimiſces in John 25-
the Church of St. Sophia, on Chriſtmas-Day, á Fort- miſces
Crown
night after Nicephorus's Death.
Theophania, a Princeſs of that Name, and related to
the Imperial Family, he ſent to Otho the Great, who
had demanded her in Marriage for his Son Otho the
Second in the Reign of Nicephorus ; and having ſettled
his Affairs at Court, he apply'd himſelf to provide for
the Defence of the Eaſtern Provinces, the Saracens hav-
ing form’d a Grand Confederacy of all their Nations,
to recover the Cities and Provinces that Phocas bad ta-
ken from them. Zochares the Carthaginian, Captain-
General of all their Forces, lay down before Antioch,
with an Army of 100000 Men, hoping to make himſelf
970.
The Sara-
Maſter of it before Zimiſces could be able to relieve it
. cens roused
But Nicholas, who commanded the Roman Troops in
Meſopotamia, muſter'd all the Forces he could get toge-
ther, charg'd the Infidels, routed them, and fav'd the
City, the Saracens retreating in great Diſorder into their
own Territories.
The Rolli or Ruſſians, hearing what a prodigious Ar-
my had invaded the Empire in Aſia, thought it would
give ſuch a diverſion to Zimiſces's Arms, that they might
eaſily overrun his Dominions in Europe. They had al-
ready fubdu'd a great part of Bulgaria, and Calocyrus,
a Roman Fugitive, incited them to invade Thrace, incou-The Rofii
raging them with hopes of maſtering the Imperial City, and Bulga-
They
invited the Hungarians to join with them ; telling
them, Zimiſces was to ill ſettled in the Government,
vade the
and the Saracens ſo powerful in Aſia, that now was
Empire
the Time for them to revenge all the Hardſhips they
had ſuffer'd by the Romans. Conſtantinople was a fair
Prize to tempt them; and Calocyrus made the Enterprize with
fo ealie, that the Number of thoſe who liſted in this
308000
War, amounted in all, to Three Hundred and Eight Mens
Thouſand Men,
Zimiſces
telling rians in
!
i
$
78
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
--
A. D. Zimiſces dreading the Storm which hung over the Em.
971. pire, ſent Ambaſſadors to offer the Rol and their Con-
federates any Terms of Peace, which they could in rea-
ſon expect; but they were proud of their Numbers,
and thought to get more by a War. They accordingly
palt Mount Hemus, wafted Thrace, and beweg’d Adria-
nople. The Emperor provok'd at their deſpiſing his
Offers of Peace, rais'd an Army to oppoſe them, and
gave the Command of it to Bardas Sclerus, or the Bold,
whoſe Sifter Mary was Zimiſces's firſt Wife. His Troops
did not in all amount to more than Thirteen Thouſand
Men, yer he watch'd his Opportunity to attack them
with Advantage, and having drawn a Body of them in-
to an Ambuſcade, he cut them to pieces. This Succeſs
embolden'd him to fall upon the reſt, who being diſo
courag'd at the Misfortune of their Fellows, were eaſi-
Bardas
ly' routed; and bad nor Night came on in the Purſuit,
Sclerus
few, or none of them, had eſcap'd. The Romans took a
reuts them. valt' Number of them Priſoners, with the Loſs only of
Five and Twenty or Thirty Men. Bardas Sclerus had
not time to improve his Victory; for Bardas Phocas,
the Son of Leo, the late Emperor Nicephorus's Brother,
hearing of bis Unkle's Murder, and his Father's Ba-
niſhment, Zimi/ces having confin'd him to the Inand of
Lesbos, ſeiz'd the City of Caefarea in Cappadocia, and be
ing joyn'd by ſeveral Perſons of Note, Friends to the
Houſe of the Phocas, was faluted Emperor. His Strength
encreaſing, Zimiſces thought fit to recall Bardas Sclerus
Žliniſces
from the Ruſian War, and ſend him againſt Phocas.
invades
Himſelf took on himn the Cominand of the Army in
Bulgaria. Thrace, invaded Bulgaria, and beſiegʻd the Caſtle of
Takes Pre-Preſlaw, the Capital City of the Kingdom. He de-
Naw, and feared the Forces that came to relieve it ; and having
the King of receiv'd a Reinforcement of freſh Troops, led by Bd-
Bulgaria filius, he ſtorm'd the Fort, took it, and with it the City,
ir perfon. putting Man, Woman and Child to the Sword. Bori-
ſes, King of Bulgaria, was taken Priſoner, with his
Wife and Children. He was brought before the Empe-
ror, array'd in his Royal Robes, and Zimiſces receiv'd
him with Reſpect ſuitable to his Dignity, declaring he
did not come to make War upon the Bulgarians, but
upon the Ruſſians, who were chen möte Maſters in Bula
garia, than the Bulgarians themſelves. They had pol-
1
Eers
!
Chap. II.
79
John Zimiſces
:
mans rout
$
fels'd themſelves of Diſtria, the ſtrongeſt Town in the A. D.
Kingdom, and their General was encamp'd near it with 979-
an Army of 350000 Men for its Preſervation : How-
ever the Romans ſupply'd with Valour what they wanted
in Number, and being fluiht with their late Succeſs,
thought no Difficulty too great for them to ſurmount. In
this Diſpoſition Zimifces led them
againſt the Enemy,
gave the Ruſians Batile, in which Fortune chang'd fides The Ro-
no leſs than twelve times; at laſt the Emperor putting
himſelf at the Head of a ſelect Party, charg'd the Ene the Roſh.
my ſo furiouſly, that the declar'd entirely for the Ro-
mans, and the Barbarians abandon'd the Field and their
Camp to the Conquerors. As many of them as could
reach Diſtria, Aut themſelves up in that Town, and
thither the Emperor purſu'd them, intending by the tak-
And bed
ing of that City to extirpate the Power of the Roſi in
fiege
Bulgaria. This Siege being one of the moſt remarkable,
Diſtrias
both for the Courage of the Beſiegers and the Reſolu-
tion of the Beſieg'd, of any in that Age, we fall be
the more particular in our Account of it.
The Ruſſians having notice that the Romans were re-
freſhing themſelves at Supper, ſally'd out upon them,
and ſurprizing them a little by the Suddenneſs of their
Onſet, put them into Diſorder, but they foon recover'd
themſelves, and drove the Barbarians back into the
Town, where all were in Confuſion, expecting the Rom
mans would have enter'd it with them; but the Gates
being ſecur’d, Sphendofthlabus, General of the Rolli,
drain'd all their Garriſons in the Neigbourhood, to
ſtrengthen that of Diſtria, which was weaken'd by their
Lors in the late Salley, and by the diſarming of twenty
thouſand Bulgarians, whom Sphendoftlılabus ſuſpect-
ed to incline to deſert. Zimiſces fearing the Siege
might be lengthen'd, till his Men, who had already
been enough fatiga'd, would be weary of it, drew his
Army up in Battalia, and defy'd the Ruſſian Generals.
Sphendoſt blabus refus'd to come out to fight, reſolving
to make good bis Ground in Diſtria, and to barraſs the
Romans by continual Salleys. He took his Opportunity
for the next, when the Beſiegers were leaſt prepar'd co
receive him. The Ruſſians ſally'd out at once at all
their Gares, and, as before, had at firſt the better of
the Romans ; but the latter having the good Fortune ta
1
1
)
So
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
money
A. D. kill Phagelius, one of the beſt Officers of the Rosi, his
979. Soldiers were diſcourag'd, and the Romans perceiving
ir, renew'd the Fight with great Bravery ; the Ruſſians
fearing to have their Retreat into Diſtria cut off, by a
Party whom Zimiſces had detach'd for thar purpoſe,
ſhifted every Man for himſelf; and the Romans coming
upon them as they ftragled up and down the Country,
flew moſt of them. This Defeat made Sphendoſtbla-,
bus more cautious how he ſuffer'd his Men to make
Salleys. He drew a new Trench about the Walls, and
tais'd ſeveral new Works for the Security of the Place.
His greateſt Want was of Proviſions, which began to
grow ſhort. He was block'd up by Land, and having
no Hope of Relief that Way, he took two thouſand
Men with him, and embarking them on Board fome
Veſſels in the River, fail'd down ſeveral Miles in a
dark Night, gor Corn for his Garriſon, cut off ſome
Roman Forragers, whom he mer with in his Way, and.
return'd to Diſtria. The Emperor was in a terrible
Paſſion with the Officers of the Fieer, whom he had
order'd to block him up on the ſide of the River,
threatning to put them to Death, if ever they ſuffer'd
him to ſurprize them in that manner any more: Zimif-
ces receiving Information, that there was great Scarci-
ty of all ſorts of Proviſions in the Town, reſolv'd to
ſave his own Men and ſtarve out the Beſieg’d. This
Project had the deſign d Effect, the Rusſians were ſoon
reduc'd to the last Neceſſity, and that compelld them
to make another general Sally. They were led by Jer."
nar, one of their Champions, in whoſe Courage they
very much confidedi Him Anemas, the Son of the Ca-
liph of Crete, who, on the Reduction of that Ifland by
the Romans, enter'd himſelf into the Emperor's Service,
challengd, fought and ſlew; upon which the Rolli
türn'd their Backs and fled. The Paſſage back to the
Town was narrow, and there was
and there was as many of their
Men trampi'd to Death by themſelves, as were kill'd
by the Romans. Sphendoftblabus began now to appre-
hend, that his further Deferice would be rather Deſpair
than Valour, and calling a Council of War; conſulted
with his chief Oficers what thould be done. They all
agreed, 'twas impoflible to hold out much longer; and
one of them propofing, that then they ougbt to fight
this
Chap. II.
81
John Zimiſces.
their way thro' their Enemies, or die with their Swords A.D.
in their Hands, they came to a Reſolution to give the 997.
Romans Battle. The next Day they drew out and ſhut The Brave-
the Gates,' to take away all Hopes of a Retreat from my of Rofiis
their Men. The Emperor prepar'd to attack them with
the moſt Advantage; and perceiving the Place was
too ſtreight for him to draw up his Men where he was
encamp'd, he commanded the Army to retire to a Plain,
that was not far off. The Rulians thinking they fled,
came upon them precipitately; and when the Romans
were got to the Plain, they charg’d them furiouſly, and
thought to bave obtain'd an eaſy Victory; but the Ro-
mans receiv'd them with extraordinary Bravery, and
feem'd to be animated by the Example of their Enemies.
The Battle was bloody and doubtful; and Zimiſces pie
tying the Loſs of ſo much Chriſtian Blood, ſent to Sphen-
doſthlabus, to challenge him to decide the Diſpute by a
fingle Combar. The Barbarian anſwer'd arrogantly,
He knew how to value his Life better; if the Emperor was
weary of his; he had an Opportunity to diſpoſe of it in
the Field. Timiſces provok'd at his Arrogance, reſolvid
to make a vigorous Effort to put an end to the War.
He commanded Sclerus with a Party of Troops to cut
off their Communication with the Town, and order'd
Romanus, Son of Conftantine, Son of Romanus the Elder,
ro charge them with a Body of Reſerve which he come
înanded. Still the Ruſſians fought like Men that were
reſolv'd to prevail, or to die. Anemas bear Sphendofth-
labus off his Wife, and as he was about to kill him, was
himſelf cut to pieces by his Guards. At laſt the ſupe-
rior Valour, or Fortune of the Romans, curn'd the Day:
the Barbarians cir'd with too much Action, grew diſpi-
rited, and the Romans took heart as their Enemies loft
it. The Fight, after this Change, laſted not long; the
Ruſſians fled, and were moſt of them kill'd and wound.
ed. Among the Dead the Romans found ſeveral Won
inen, who had accompany'd their Husbands in the War,
and had behav'd themſelves with a Maſculine Courage.
Notwithstanding the Emperor had obtain'd lo complead
a Victory, he was ready enough to conſent to a Peace,
which Sphendoftblabus demanded of him. He had ex. Pote con
perienc'd the Vaiour of the Rulli, and was unwilling to cluded ivice
drive them to Deſpair: He granted them free Pagagetk Roli
1
>
82
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. Ir
1
>
He re-
enters
A.D. to retire to their own Country, had an Interview with
997 their General and entertain'd him with Magnificence.
The Relli in cheir return home were attack'd by the Pata
zinace, a Barbarous Nation, who reſenting, that they
had enter d into an Alliance with the Romans, fuf-
priz'd Sphendoſtlabus in his March thro' their Territo-
ries, and cut off him and all his Men.
Zimiſces made a Triumphant Entry into Conſtantino-
ple, in an open Chariot drawn by four Horſes richly.
Capariſon'd, which was brought him by the Patriarch,
the Clergy, the Senate and the People, who mer him
without the Walls with Crowns of Victory. He
fus'd to enter the City in the Chariot, but he mounted
a white Courſer, put the Royal Robes of the Bulgari-
an Princes in the Charior, and over them the Image of
the Virgin Mary, Protectreſs of the City, and follow'd
Ziniſces it in Proceſſion to the Forum, where he was welcom'd
with Shouts of Joy, the more hearty, for that the Ro-
Conftanti-
mans had not larely been us’d to ſuch Sights, Conqueſt
nople in
and Triumph having been ſeldom heard of in the Im-
Trlumph.
perial Ciry, ſince the Irruption of the Saracens into the
Empire. We mention'd in the beginning of the Rollian
War, that Bardas Sclerus was ſent into the Eaſt ageinſt
Bardas Phocas, who had rais'd a dangerous Rebellion
in Afia. We did not think fit to interrupt the Courſe of
that War, by an Account of the Succeſs of Sclerus, tho
it happen'd before Zlmiſces had driv'n the Roll out of
Bulgaria. Leo, the Father of Bardas Phoeas, by the
Aſiſtance of the Biſhop of Abydos, had corrupted his
Keepers at Lésbos, and was preparing to eſcape and
joyn his Son; but being diſcover'd before he could ef.
feet his purpoſe, the Emperor commanded that he and
his other Son Nicephorus ſhould be blinded; tho' ſome
Writers affirm, that he gave private Orders to thoſe
thar were to execute the Sentence, not to blind them,
but to threaten them, and ſeem to ſave them out of
Compaflion, that the two Princes abuſing his Clemency,
endeavour'd to raiſe new Troubles afterwards, for which
they deſervedly loſt their Eyes. Sclerus arriving in Aſia,
try'd at firſt to draw off Phocas's Followers by Offers of
Pardon, which not having any preſent Effect upon them,
he march'd with all his Forces towards Cefarea, where
che Ulurper food on his Defence. When Sclerus came
before
.
Chap. II.
John Zimifces.
83
!
:
Before the City, he renew'd the fame Offers; and the A. D.
Chiefs of Phocas's Party deſpairing of holding out long, 997.
againſt the Imperial Army, deferred to him. The Ulur.Bardas
per finding almoſt all of his Accomplices had left him, reduc'd bg
Phocas
hearken'd himſelf to Sclerus's Propoſals, who promis'd
Bardas
to interceed with the Emperor in his behalf, and ſurren-
Sclerus.
der'd the Place and his Perſon to Zimiſces's Mercy.
This Prince made good what his General offer'd in his
Name, and contented himſelf to order Phocas to be con-
fin'd to the Iſland of Chios, from whence he was recalld
in a few Years to oppoſe the very Man, Bardas Sclerus,
who had now reduc'd him.
Thus had the Emperor imiſces Triumph d over alt
bis Enemies. Bulgaria, whoſe Kings had lately been
very troubleſome to the Romans, he entirely conquerd,
and plac'd a Roman Governor over that Province, which
was again annext to the Empire. He kept the Infidels
in awe in Aſia, and was as juſt in the equal Adminiſtra-
tion of the Civil Government, as he was great in Arms,
The Empire had not for ſeveral Hundred Years
made ſo ſining a Figure in the World, nor the Greeks
deſerv'd the Name of Romans, to which they pretended,
ſo much as in his Reign. In this latt Year the Saracens
made ſome vain Arrempts to recover the Towns Zimifces
and his Predeceſſor had taken from them; but the Em.
peror was in the Field almoſt as ſoon as they; and the
Infidels hearing he had paſt the Streights, put himſelf
at the Head of his Army, and was advancing againſt
them, immediately retir'd into their own Territories.
Kimiſces kept his Court at Damaſcus in Syria fome-
time, that he might inſpect the repairing the Fortificam
tions of his Frontier Towns, and be at hand to repel
the Barbarians. While he was in this pleaſant Couna
try, he delighted in Riding abroad and viewing the dea
licious Sears and fruitful Valleys in the Neighbourhood.
Adıniring ſome of them, he ask'dro whom they belong'd.
And being told they were all Bafilius's, the Prefident of
his Council. He anſwer'd, How unhappy are the Row
mans, to have their Treaſures and their beſt Blood waſted,
to ſatisfie the Pride and Luxury of an ambitious Eunuch !
This Baſilius was a Politick States. Man, and had ſerved
Nicephorus, Zimiſces's Predeceſſor, in the ſame Station
that he was now in. He not only knew how có Tema
G 2
porize
1
84
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
A. D. porize on all Occaſions, but how to improve all Op-
997. portunities to enrich himſelf. He was inform d of what
the Emperor faid concerning him ; and fearing to be
call'd to an Account by him, reſolv'd to prevent it by
his Death ; ſo he brib'd his Cup-bearer to Poiſon him. .
Accordingly he gave bim a Potion, which, tho' it
Zimiſces is
work'd but ſlowly, put an end to his Life and Reign,
Poiſon'd,
on the 4th. of December, in the Seventh Year of his
own Reign ; the Third of Otho, the Eleventh Emperor
of Germany; the Fourth of Alfred, King of England;
the Twenty Firſt of Lothair, King of France; and the
Firſt of the Pontificate of Pope Benet the Seventh,
375.
John Zimiſces would have left behind himn one of the
His Cha- moſt ſhining Characters in the Roman Hiſtory, had he
Taller.
got the Crown with as much Juſtice as he govern'd af.
ter it was plac'd on his Head. He was poſſeſs’d of all
the Heroick Virtues,and of as many of the Chriſtian, as
moſt of his Predeceſſors; and tho' he acquir'd the So-
vereignty by ill Means, he did not attempt to diſpoſe of
it, from thoſe whoſe Right it was to enjoy it. Accord.
ingly as ſoon as he was dead, the two young Princes,
Baſilius II. and Conſtantine IX. were Proclaim'd and
acknowledg’d Emperors without any Oppoſition.
A. D. 975.
Baſilius II. Conſtantine IX.
.
B4filius, who had procur’d the Death of Zimifces,
by his Poſt of Prelident of the Council, ſucceeded
him in the Government, during the Minority of the two
young Emperors, who were neither of them of Age to
fiſfume the Adminiſtration. Baſilius, to increaſe his In-
tereſt, recall’d the Empreſs Dowager Theophania from
Baniſhment; and being jealous of Bardas Sclerus, who
having been bred up from his Youth in Arms, was
mightily belov'd by the Soldiery, he remov'd him frorn
his Command in the Eaſt, and ſent him inro Meſopota-
mia, to be Governor of that part of the Province which
was ſtill ſubject to the Romans Sclerus knowing what
Biſilius meant by ſending him into an honourable Exile,
to lellen his Authority in the Army and increaſe his own
ir
Chap. II. Baſilius II. Conſtantine IX.
85
i
}
in the State, refus'd to obey the Orders he receiv'd A. D.
from Court, rayling openly againſt the Preſident, wbo 975.
carry'd it with a high Hand, and threaten'd to turn him
out of all his Offices, unleſs he obey'd his Commands.
Sclerus's Son Romanus was at Conſtantinople.; ſo he durſt
nor declare himſelf publickly, till he had got him out of
of the Preſident's Hands. In the mean time he reprę.
ſented his Wrongs to the Soldiers, who hated Baſilius
for his Covetouſneſs, and promis'd to live and die with
their General. Romanus Sclerus, the Son of Bardas,
finding he was in Danger at Conſtantinople, made his
Eſcape to his Father in Aſia, who pretended he was
preparing to depart for Meſopotamia; but as ſoon as
Romanus arriv'd ſafely in his Camp, he took upon him
the Habit of an Emperor, and was faluted Auguſtus by
his Army. He ſeiz'd the Publick Treaſures, and ob-
lig'd thoſe that could afford it, to contribute to the
Bardas
Charge of the War. With the Sums he rais’d, he bought Sclerus
the Friendſhip of the Saracens, and got a conſiderable Ujurpse
Body of Forces together, with which he defeated Peter,
whom Bafilius had put over his Head in the Command
of the Eaſtern Army. Upon this Succeſs many
Perſons of Rank were encourag'd to declare for him ;
and ſome of the Malecontents laying hold of Curticas,
the Roman Admiral. fecur'd his Perſon, and deliver'd
976.
the Fleer to Bardas. Bafilius was in a terrible Cona
fternation, when he heard of Peter's Defeat, the Loſs of
the Fleet and Sclerus's approaching towards the Sea-
Coaſts, in order to paſs the Streights. However he did
not ſo far loſe his Courage, as to neglect the neceſſary
Proviſion for his Defenee. Heorder'd Leo to put him. Routs the
ſelf at the Head of Peter's broken Forces to recruit Imperial
them, and oppoſe Sclerus in Afia. Leo obtaining a ſmall-Armya
Advantage over a Body of Sclerus's Troops, found
Means to reinforce his Army ſo well, that he thought
he was ſtrong enough for Bardas's whole Forces, wha
out-numbring him in Horſe, obrain'd a compleat Vi-
Ctory over him, in which Peter was kill'd, Leo and
moſt of the Principal Commanders taken Priſoners, and
almoſt all Afia became ſubject to the Ulurper. However,
Bafilius with equal Care and Courage levy'd a new
Army, fitred out a Fleet and gave the Command of ie
to Theodorus Carentcnus the Patrician, who defeated
G 3
Sclerus's
86
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
to ſuch a Paſs, the Prelident fear'd any Danger leſs than
A. D.
Sclerus's Admiral, took moſt of his Ships and clear d
976
the Seas of the Enemy. Bardas lay down before Nice,
thinking to carry it, while the Reputation of his Arms
was ſo great in the Eaſt. Againſt him the Preſident
fent Manuel Eroticus with a good Body of Troops; but
Sclerus having reduc'd the Citizens to the laſt Extremity,
Take sNice notwithſtanding Manuel had thrown himſelf into the
Place, they were forc'd to ſurrender it to the Conque-
ror, who granted the Garrifon honourable Terms, and
pardon'd the Inhabitants. The Reduction of Nice le-
car'd the Dominion of Aſia ; ſo Bardas having refreſh'd
his Troops, inarch'd towards the Coafts, intending to
attempt Conſtantinople it ſelf. Bafilius was now drivno
the laſt Extremity; all the Armies he had ſent againſt
the Uſurper had been deſtroy'd, and all the Generals
unfortunate ; he could not tell whom to give the Com-
mand of the Eaſt to, but Bardas Phocas, a Perfon that
having formerly rebelld, was a dangerous Man to be
truſted with an Army: However, Things were come
that which at preſent threatend him; So he recalld
Pbocas from Baniſhment, and made him General of the
Bardas
Eaſt. Phocas poſted to put himſelf at the Head of the
Phocas
Troops that were to act againſt Sclerus. He reinforc'd
fent into
them with new Levyes, and the Uſurper halten'd to
the Eaſt
against
give him Battle, knowing there was no Time to be
Scleruse
loft, now he had to deal with an Officer of Phocas's
Experience and Reputation. The two Armies came
to an Engagement near Amorium, and Fortune, who
was not yet weary of Sclerus, fided with him, as the
had hitherto done. Phocas behav'd himſelf like a brave
Soldier and prudent Commander, but Sclerus's Troops
Scierus de animated by many lare Succeſſes, were too hard for his
12 453 hins. diſpirited Men. Phocas
, with all poſſible Induſtry, re-
cruired his broken Army. He ſent for Forces out of
Iberia and other Provinces, which had not yet contribu-
ted much to the War, either by Levyes or Payments,
and in a little time found himſelf in a Condition to ſeek
our the Enemy to whom he offer'd Bartle in the Plain of
Pancalea in Cappadocia. Sclerus in the beginning of this
Engagement, had alſo the better of Phocas, whoſe Men
ave ground at the Onſer. Phocas reſolving to recover
La Repuration, or periſh in the Attempt, rode up to
Sclerus,
7
$
Chap. II. Baſilius II. Conſtantine IX.
87
Sclerus, charg'd himn and wounded him ſo much at one A. D.
Blow, that he ſunk on his Horſe's Neck, and was dir. 976,
abled to continue the Fight. Phocas immediately ran
to his flying Squadrons, and did his utmoſt by Prayers
and Threats to rally his ſcatter'd Troops, who hearing
of Sclerus's Misfortune, were encourag'd to renew the
Battle. In the mean time the Uſurper was carry'd by
two of his Attendants to a neighbouring Fountain to have
his Wounds wali'd; and Sclerus's Horſe being neglect-
ed by them in their Fright, ran with his Mane all bloody
among his Soldiers, who believing their General was
flain, turn'd their backs and fled before the Imperialiſts, Phocas
whom they ſaw returning to the Charge. So flight an drives bike
Accident (narch'd the Victory out of the Hands of the
out of the
Rebels, and deſtroy'd Sclerus's Hopes and Party, when Empire,
he was in a fair way to make himſelf Maſter of the
Empire. The Ulurper fled to Martyropolis, and thence
to Babylon, to implore the Aſiſtance of the Sultan Chofa
roes. Baſilius the Emperor hearing that Sclerus was ar
Babylon, fent Ambaſſadors to the Sultan, to repreſent to
him how dangerous it would be for one Sovereign to
protect another's Rebels. He alſo wrote to Sclerus,
inviting him to return home on Aſſurance of Pardon.
Chofroes highly reſented, that the Ambaffadors ſhould
pretend to Trear with Sclerus without his Permiſſion, for
which Reaſon he impriſon'd them and the Uſurper.
During this Civil War the Bulgarians were trouble
ſome to the Empire. Samuel, a Prince of the Royal
Family of Bulgaria, having thrown off the Roman Yoke,
impos'd on his Nation in the Reign of Zimiſces, reco-
ver'd the Places the Romans poſſeſs'd in that Kingdom ;
and not contented with driving them out of his own
Territories, invaded the Emperor's, ravag'd Tbrace,
Macedonia, Thel aly and the Mores, took ſeveral Cities,
among others that of Lariſc, and carry'd away the
Holy Relicks of St. Achilleus, Patron of the City, into
Bulgaria with him, to the great Mortification of the
Thell'alians. Againſt himn Bafilius the Emperor, who,
on the Death of Bifilius the Preſident, took the Go Samuel,
vernment on himſelf, lent Gregory Taronita with an King of
Army to ſecure The{falonica, which City Samuel threat- Bulgaria,
en d. Taronita repair'd and enlarg'd the fortifications, inundes che
and orderd his Sen Afola to oppoſe the Bulgarians in Eignirea
abc
03
G A
1
88
The Roman Hiſtory:
Chap. II.
A. D. the Field. Samuel laid an Ambuſh for the young Ge-
.
976.
neral, and cut off many of his Men; the reſt were
ſo ſurrounded by the Bulgarians, that there was no
likelihood of their Eſcape. "Taronita march'd to relieve
his Son, and making too much hafte was ſurpriz'd by
the Enemy, whom he fought, and fighting with a true
Roman Bravery was kill'd by them. Moſt of his Troops
were cut off, and Aſöta forc'd to ſurrender himſelf his
Priſoner. Afota went into Bulgaria with him, marry'd
his Daughter and had the Government of Dyrrachium
and the neighbouring Country conferr'd on him by Sa-
muel, who had reduc'd it. However, as ſoon as he
found an opportunity, he eſcap'd with his Wife into
the Empire, and was honour'd by Baſilius with 'the
Command of the Ariny, that were employ'd againſt
the Bulgarians, who had lately receiv'd an entire Over-
throw by Nicephorus Branas, in which Samuel and his
The Eul.
garians
Son Romanus were left among the Slain; but they both
defeated, got ſafe into Bulgaria. And Samuel ſoon rais d another
Army to continue the War with the Romans, whom he
mortally hared. Afota, to deſerve the Emperor's Fa-
vour, yielded up Dyrrachium, and all the Forts about
it, that had been conquer'd by the Bulgarians, and were
given him as a Marriage Portion with his Wife: He
alſo invaded Samuel's Dominions, deſtroying the Coun-
try to the Gates of Sardica; as alſo ſeveral Caſtles in
the Neighbourhood of that City, which in the follow-
ing Year the Emperor beſieg'd in Perſon. He bad in
his Army two Principal Oficers, Stephen and Leo Me-
liſenus, who bared one another, and whoſe Hatred rúa
ind this Enterprize. For while Baſilius lay before the
Town, Stephen came late one Night to his Tent, pre-
tending he had diſcover'd a Conſpiracy, form'd againſt
him by Leo, alledging, that if he did nor halten back to
Conſtantinople, Meliſſenus would be there before him,
and ſeize the Imperial Ciry: He gave ſuch plauſible
Pafilius
Reaſons for it, that the Emperor broke up and retreat-
she Empe- ed in great Confufion. Samuel having notice of it, fell
VAR OVER
on his Rear, and routed his whole Army. Bafilius
tbruar hy fled to Phillipopolis, where he found Leo ſo far from at-
tempring any thing againſt him, that he was diligently
preparing to march to bis Affiſtance. The Emperor
was enrag'ů at Stephen, for abuſing him by ſo falſe and
fatai
1
-
Chap. II. Baſilius II. Conſtantine IX.
89
fatal an Accuſation. Stephen offering to vindicate his A.D.
Charge, Bafilius leapt from his Seat, took him by the 976.
Hair of his Head and Beard, and flung him to the
Ground.
Pbocas who Commanded in the Eaſtern Provinces,
hearing of the Emperor's defeat, thought 'twas a fairop-
portunity for him to renounce his Allegiance to him,
and ſet up for himſelf; he had thrown off his Obedi-
ence.once before, and the Charms of Imperial Power,
of which he had had a faint Taſt, ran ſtill in his Mind.
987
The Soldiers in the Eaſt were at his Devotion, the Officers
Phocas
had been moſt of them promoted by him, and with
great Joy they all Saluted him Emperor. Accordingly ufurps.
he aſſum'd the Imperial Title and Ornaments, and gą-
ther'd Forces from all Parts of the Eaſtern Empire, to
enable him to croſs the Streights, and paſs over into
Europe.
This News was ſcarce arriv'd at the Imperial Coure,
before as bad came out of the Eaſt; for Sclerus, whom
Chofroes had releas'd out of Priſon, having done the Sul-
tan good Service in his Wars with the Perſians, enter'd
the Roman Territories at the head of Three Thouſand
choice Soldiers, who had been his fellow Priſoners ar
Babylon, and were releas'd with him to Fight against Sclerus ens
the Perſians. Sclerus was very, much diſappointed in his ters the
Hopes, by Phocas's Uſurpation; he could not pretend Empire.
to oppoſe both him and Bafilius, and was too Proud to
ſtoop to either of them, his own Pretences to the Sove-
reignty being as juſt as Bafilius's or Phocas's, in his own
Opinion. He thought it his Intereſt to keep fair with
both of them, that he might deceive both. He ſent to
Phocas offering to join with him in depoſing Bafilius, and
to ſhare the Empire with him ; at the ſame time Roma.
nus, his Son, deſerted to Baſilius, and was taken into
his Service and Favour, Sclerus conſenting to it to ſe-
cure an Intereſt at Court, if the Emperor (hould ſuppreſs
Phocas, that might be powerful enough to procure a
Pardon for him. Phocus, who could diffemble as well
as Sclerus, made a mock Agreement with him. They
divided the Empire between them, and join'd their
Forces ; but as ſoon as Phocas had Sclerus in bis Power, Phocas
he threw him into Priſon, and forc'd him to lay aſide his takes and
Imperial Ornaments. His Troops eaſily conſented to impriſons
the bins.
1
6
90
The Roman Hiſtory Chap. II.
from his
A. D. the offers he made them, to continue in his Service;
987. and being ſtrengthend with ſuch a Reinforcement, he
march'd to Abydos, deſigning to attack Conſtantinople it
ſelf; but Conſtantine, the Emperor Bafilius's Brother
and Collegue, having pofſeft himſelf of Abydos, which
Phocas intended to ſeize, it put a ſtop to the Uſurper's
progreſs. Bafilius paſt over into Aſia with the Weltern
Legions. Phocas offer'd him Battle, or to decide the Dif-
Phocas
pute by a ſingle Combat ; and as he was riding towards
falls Dead him with a full Career, fell Dead from his Horſe. But
Horſe.
how it came about is not certain ; fome Authors write
his Horſe threw him, others that he was kill'd by a Sol-
dier of the Imperial Army, others that the Emperor
Conſtantine kill'd him; and there are ſeveral Hiſtorians
who affirm he was Poiſon'd by a Servant of his, at the
Inftigation of Bafilius. His Men diſpers'd at the fight
of their Maſter's Fare, the Chief of them were taken
and Executed ; and thoſe that eſcap'd apply'd to Scle.
rus, whom they would feign have perſuaded to continue
the Rebellion; but by the Emperor's Expoftulations,
and Romanus, his Son's Perſuaſions, the old Man was
Sclerus prevail'd with to give over his Deſigns againſt the Peace
pardon d. of the Empire. He was Pardon'd, admitted to the
Emperor's Preſence, and his Followers provided for,
each according to his Character and Qualicy.
Theſe Troubles being over, Bafilius undertook an Ex-
pedition into the Weſt, he hir'd Troops of the Afrią
can Saracens, to which he join'd ſome of his own, and
made War on the Emperor Otho in Italy, where his
Commanders cook Bari and Matera in Povilla, and re-
duc'd that Province and Calabria to his Obedience
which Otho had ſeiz'd in right of his Wife Theophania,
and by Virtue of a Treaty with Fobn Zimices, who
had alrign'd them to him as a Marriage Portion with the
Greek Princeſs. Theſe Conqueſts were not long main-
cain'd, and the Dominion of the Roman Emperors in Ita-
ly was fo precarious, thar it was hardly worth the Charge
of defending it ſo long as they held it.
To ſecure Macedonia and Thrace from the Incurſi.
389 ons of she Bulgarians, «the Emperor took a Progreſs
thro' thoſe Provinces, fortify'd the frontier Towns, and
then paſt over into Aſia, to do the like to the Cities in
Iberia and Phæniciug to reſtrain the Inroads of the Saraa
çens..
1
1
Chap. I). Bafilius II. Conſtantine IX.
91
cens. In Phænicia he and his whole Army were enter. A. Dia
tain'd by One Man, Euſtathius Malenius, who had been 989.
a Friend to Bardas Phocas. Bafilius ſeem'd to be very
well pleas'd with the Magnificence of the Entertain-
ment, but in himſelf dinik'd to ſee ſo much Riches in
the Hands of a private Perſon, who was enabled by his
Wealth to diſturb the publick Peace whenever he pleas’d.
He therefore contriv'd ſome plauſible Pretext to take
him with him to Conftantinople, where he kept him as
long as he liv'd, and when he dy'd, ſeiz'd upon his
Eſtate and Treaſures.
Some Authors place the Death of Taronita, and his
Son Afotas's Captivity, after this Expedition, in which
the Saracens gave Hoſtages for their peaceable Benavi-
our ; others ſay thoſe Events happen'd in the Beginning
of the Bulgarian War. Indeed the many various Re-
ports of the ſame things that are tranſmitted to us by the
Greek Hiſtorions, give us a very ill Opinion of the By-
zantine Chronology ; and though we have been as ex-
act as poflible in diſtinguiſhing the Years, yer the Con-
fufion is ſo great, thar neither Care nor Art can bring
it into Order, could we boaſt as much of the latter, as
we may without Vanity do of the former.
Samuel, King of Bulgaria, being a Warlike, Active
Prince, foon gave the Emperor juſt Cauſe to break
with him and Bafilius having clear'd his Dominions
of inteftine Broils, had Leiſure to revenge the Affronts
he had often receiv'd from the Bulgarians. Samuel was
not deterr'd by his Preparations of War, but paſſing the
Samuel
pleaſant Vale of Tempe, and the River Peneus, he pierc d
through Greece into Peloponnefus ; but Nicephorus Branas Bulgaria
King of
following him, overtook him near the River Sperchius, defeated,
and entirely defeated him, himſelf with Difficulty
995
eſcaping into his own Dominions.
In the Beginning of the Eleventh Century Theodorus
and Nicephorus Xiphias were ſent with an Army into
Bulgaria : They took Preſlaw and Pleskow, and in the
following Year Berrhæa and Videna : Videna refifted
the Roman Arms Nine Months, but was at laſt forc'd to
ſubmit to the Conquerors. They routed the Bulgarian
Army near the River Axius
Romanus, Sumuel's Un-
kle, deliver'd the City of Scopias to the Romans with-
out making the leaſt oppoſition, for which Bafilius crea-
ted
1000
1001
1002
1
N
92
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
!
1002
A. D. ted him a Parrician, and gave him the Government of
Abidos. Theſe frequent Loffes broke Samuel's Spirit,
and be deſpair'd of ever being able to meet the Romans
in the field. For which reaſon he made ute of his Curi-
ning when he thought his Force would be ineffectual.
He had drawn the Emperor Baſilius, who invaded his
Dominions in the enſuing Year, into the Streights of
1004
Cimba Longus, where he could eaſily have cut him offe
had not Nicephorus Xiphias, who was then Governor
of Philippopolis, arriv'd at the inſtant as the Bulgarians
were about to attack the Romans, whom they had goe
at a Diſadvantage. Xiphias deſcending the Hill of Ba-
TheBulga- labiſta, fell upon the Backs of the Bulgarians, who be-
rians over. ing attack'd in Front and Rear, were ſoon defeated.
thropon. Moſt of them were Nain on the ſpot, yer ſeveral Thou-
fands were taken Priſoners. Samuel, by his Son's affi-
ſtance, who ſupply'd him with a freſh Horſe, eſcap'd to
the Caſtle of Prilapus. The Emperor commanded the
15000 of Eyes of the Priſoners, 15000 in Number, to be put
'em Blind-
our, and to each Hundred he allotted a Leader, one of
ed.
their own Nation, who had one Eye ſpar'd that he
might lead his Band to their King. When Samuel ſaw
them come back in ſo miſerable a Condition, he Swoond
away with Grief; and tho' he came to Life again, he
Samuel's ſurviv'd the ſad Sight but Two Days, dying the 15th of
Death.
September, fix Weeks after his late defeat. His Son Ga-
briel (ncceeded him in the Throne: He excell'd his Fa-
ther in Strength, in Wiſdom he was much inferior to
bim, and the Affairs of Bulgaria requiring a better
Head to guide them, he was murder'd by the procure.
ment of John Vladiſlaus, the Son of his Unkle Aaron,
on the 24th of October following. Bafilius in the mean
while went on profperouſly, ſubduing the Cities in Bula
garia, in one of which he took ſeveral of the Chief Noa
bility of the Kingdom, whom he derain'd, thinking
they might be ſerviceable to him in his future Deſigns.
John finding he could not maintain his Royalty by Arms,
made a feign'd Submiſſion to the Emperor, the ſame
did the Royal Family and the Perſons of Quality, whoſe
Homage Bafilius accepted of, and return'd to Conſtan-
tinople; where he did not ſtay long, for underſtanding
Fohn prevaricated with him, he rais'd a mighty Army
and enter'd Bulgaria, reſolving to make a compleat Con-
queſt of it and annex it to his Empire,
Foba
.
1
Chap. II. Baſilius II. Conſtantine IX. '
93
John had obtaind ſeveral Advantages of Vladimir, A. D.
King of Servia and Dalmatia, from whom he took 1004
five Cities in the Territories of Raguſa, and was puſhing
on his Conqueſts when be heard of Baſilius's Preparati-
ons to begin a ſecond War, which oblig'd him to return
into his own Dominions, where be reſolv'd to raiſe a
new Army and prevent the Romans by invading the Em-
pire, affer he had reduc'd ſome of their Garriſons that
were troubleſome to him in Bulgaria. Having made
himſelf Maſter of thole Fores, he enter'd Baſilius's Ter-
ritories, march'd into Illyria and belieg'd Dyrrachium.
The Citizens made a vigorous Defence, and Bafilius in
the mean time invading bis Country, and plunder'd, de-
ſtroy'd it in ſo terrible a manner, that John was forc'd
to raiſe the Siege and return to affilt his Subjects in
Bulgaria. The Emperor loaded bis Soldiers with Booty,
ended the Campaign, put them into Winter Quarters on
1015
the Borders to be ready againſt the next Spring, and re-
turn'd to Conftantinople. David Arianita and Conſtan-
tine Diogenes, the Imperial Generals, overran Fobn's Do-
minions. Early in the following year they proceeded
as far as Caſtoria, and betieg d the City. Fobn immedi-
ately march'd to its relief, and ſhut up the Romans in
ſo diſadvantageous a Place, that had not Bafilius come
opportunely with another Army to bring them off,
they and their Men had been cut to Pieces. On hisap-
proach the Bulgarians, fled, crying out, Cæſar is coming,
The Romans took many of them Priſoners, and among
the reſt a younger Son of Fobn, whom Bafilius fent to
Conſtantinople in the latter end of Fanuary: The Empe. 301%
ror continu'd in Bulgaria waſting and pillaging the
Country without oppofition, till bis Soldiers were wea-
ry of Robbing and Spoiling. He then led them into
his own Dominions, to refreſh and eaſe themſelves of the
Burthen of the Spoils. As ſoon as he was gone, John
rais'd all the Forces he could get together, and march'd
again into Illyria, hoping by the taking of Dyrrachium,
to revenge the Affronts and make ſome amends for the
Lofles his Subjects had receiv'd from the Romans. In
tbis Expedition he was engag'd by a Roman General,
whoſe Name we are's
not certain . of (the Author
of the Hiſtory of Dalmatia, calls him Angelus !
Dufreſne.
was defeared and ſain in Bactel, after he had Reign'd
(40
94
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
A.D. two Years and five Months over the Bulgarians. The
1917 Emperor hearing of the Death of foon, immediately in-
vaded Bulgaria, and requir'd the Submiſſion of the In-
habitants of the Country, Cracras, one of the Chief
of the Bulgarian Nobility, deliver'd up Thirty five
Caſtles. Dragumuzus Strumpitza, another noble Bulga-
rian, ſurrender'd the Places he was Governor of; and
The Bulga- their example thew'd the way to almoſt all the Bulgari,
rians ſub- an Nobility, who came in and did Homage to Baſilius.
mit toBafi-
fius.
Among others came David, Archbiſhop of the Bulgari.
ans, with Letters from Mary, the Widow of the late
King Fobn, containing offers of Submiſſion on certain
Conditions, to which the Emperor agreed. He Ho-
nour'd the Nobility of Bulgaria with Dignities in the
Roman Empire, and advanc'd 'em to Places of Truſt and
Profit in his Court. Mary with her Three Sons and Six
Daughters reſorted to Achris, where Bafilius kept his
Court. She brought with her moſt of the Royal Fami.
ly, and only Ibatzes of all the Bulgarian Princes or Nos
bles, had the Courage to ſtand out againſt the Empe-
ror, who had the Royal Treaſures of the Bulgarian
Kings, and the whole Kingdom, except a few Caſtles
that held out for Ivatzes, deliver'd to him ; and he was
acknowledg'd by the Lords of the Country, aſſembled
at Achris, to be their Sovereign. However Ibatzes ſtill
ſtruggled for the Liberty of his Country, yet he ſhew'd
his Virtue and Valour in vain. The Bulgarians were
ſo pleas'd with their Chains, that they were as ready
to oppoſe him as the Romans. Bafilius carry'd hiinſelf tod
wards his new Subjects very generouſly and kindly.
They flatter'd themſelves with better Days from the Re-
volution in their Government, and were ſo dazled with
a little preſenc Proſperity in the Roman Court, that Li-
berty had loſt all her Charms. The very People who
ſo lately Fought for her with the laſt Obftinacy, now
neglected her, and left Ibatzes to the Emperor's Indigº
nation, who having ſoon reduc'd his Caſtles and taken
him Priſoner, order'd bis Eyes to be put out. Bafilius
return'd to Conftantinople, and enter'd it at the Golden
Gare in Triumph, Mary, Queen of Bulgaria, the Prin-
Bafilius
ces her Sons, and moſt of the Nobles of that Kingdom,
Triumphs
folícwing him as his Captives. He treated them never-
for it.
theleſs with great Humanity, and having annex'd the
Country
1
!
i
Chap. II. Bafilius II. Conftantine IX. 95
Country to the Empire, he made it a Province, and fet A.D.
Conftantine Diogenes over it as Governor. For his Vi- 1019
ctories in the War, and his entire Conqueſt of the Bul-
garians, he acquir’d the Sirname of Bulgarożonus, by
which he is diſtinguiſh'd from the other Bafilius in the
Byzantine Hiſtories.
The Emperor's next Preparations were for a War with
the Saracens, whom he delign'd to attack in Aſia and Si-
cily. Againſt the Sicilian Saracens be ſent his Favourite
Eunuch Oreſtes at the bead of an Army, and intended to
follow him in Perſon as ſoon as he had diſpatch'd away
the Generals that were to ſerve in Afia; but while he
was preparing to fall upon the Enemies of his Empire,
and of the Chriſtian Name, it pleas'd God, whole Judg-
ment and Ways are juſt and unſearchable, 'to take him
to himſelf in December, in the Seventieth Year of his His Deatky
Age, and the Fiftieth of his Reign, A. D. 1025.
1025
He was certainly a very great Prince, and had he
underſtood the Arts of Peace, as well as he did thoſe And Chas
of War, his Character would have ſhone as bright in the rafter.
Greek Annals, as any of his Predeceffors. He did not
affect Popularity, either among the Soldiery or the Peo-
ple,and yer he was belov'd by both the one and the other,
for his Illuſtrious Actions, and his Care to reward and
protect them. He took no Delight in Learning, or Learn-
ed Men, and that ill Quality was enough to ruin his
Reputation to Pofterity, who could have no Account of
him, but by means of chofe very perſons whom he neg.
lected. He lov d to ſee his Treaſury full, and his War-
drobe for'd with Jewels, in which he always glitter'd,
when he gave Audience to Foreign Ambaſſadors. In a
Word, he bad as many good Qualities, and as few
bad ones, as the beſt of the Bizantine Emperors.
His Brother Conſtantine ſucceeded him in the fole Admi.
Conftan-
niftration of the Publick Affairs, who being a lewd lazy tine fuc-
Prince, foon grew weary of Buſineſs, for which he had ceeds bima
no Genius, and left it to Men of as bad Principles, by
whoſe Negligence and Avarice the Empire foffer'd more His Cha
in the three Years Time that Conſtantine liv'd and reigo'd rafter.
after his Brother, than it had got by the wiſe Manage-
ment and Succeffes of three good Emperors, his Prede-
ceſſors, Nicejhoras Phocas. John Zimiſces and Baſilius
Bulgaroctonas. 'Twas a Crime in his Reigo to be Vir-
THQUS.
so
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. II.
!
A. Di cuous. He was jealous of every Man, who was not as
1025 vicious as himſelf. He looke upon them as Spies, and
invented ſome groundleſs Acculacions to take them off.
Thus the beſt Blood in the Empire was 1pilt, and every
Day of his Government made odious by the Death of
thoſe that were deareſt to the People, for their Virtue
or Valour. Nicephorus Comnenus, Brother of Manuel,
and Father of Iſaac, who was afterwards Emperor',
was condemn'd to be Blinded; but being at the Head
of an Army in Aſia, with which he had obtain'd many
1026
Advantages over the Saracens, He repreſented his In-
nocence and Danger to them ſo effectually, that the
Soldiers ſwore they would die in his Defence, and that
binder'd Conſtantine's, ill Deſigns. Bardas Phocas, the
Son of Nicephorus, had his Eyes put out; and for many
other cruel and unjuft Executions, Conſtantine was ſo
hated by his People, that his Miniſters fear'd, if he did
not ſtrengthen his Intereſt by marrying his Daughter to
ſome powerful Nobleman, he might, old as he was,
lofe bis Empire, before he loſt his Life. Some of them
propos'd Conſtantinus Delaſſenus, 'who commanded his
Army in Armenia, to be bis Son-in-law and Succeffor.
Others, and the greater Part of the Courtiers, were for
Romanus Argyrus, the Son of Leo A gyrus, who was
General of the Roman Armies. Romanus had a great
Intereſt in the Court and City. He was a Patrician.
His Wealth, Quality and the Numbers of bis Friends
ſoon gor the better of Deluſſenus's Party, and Conſtantine
reſolv'd to oblige him to marry his eldeſt Daughter Zoe,
offering in ſuch caſe to create him Cæfar. The Offer
was too fair for Argyrus to diſpute accepting it ; but
there was a Difficulty that lay in his way, which he
could not get over.
He had a Wife living, and was
both afraid and unwilling to turn her off. The Lady
underſtanding the was like to hinder her Husband's Ad-
vancement, and not only ſo, but to be the Cauſe of
loling his Eyes, for Conſtantine threatend to blind him,
if he did not marry his Daughter, retir'd into a Monas
Romanus
Itery voluntarily, and Romanus inarry'd the Princeſs Zoe.
Argyrus
He was the ſame Day created Cafar; and three Days
marries his
Daughter after Conftantine dying, left him his Succeffor in the
Zoe,
Imperial Throne. Conſtantine liv'd Seventy Two
Years, and reign'd almoſt Three. Some time before
His
1
Chap. II. Bafilius II. Conſtantine IX.
97
1
5
his Death, Diogenes, Governor of Bulgaria, overthrew A. D.
the Boſnians, and the Governor of Samos defeated and 1026
diſpers'd the Saracen Fleet, which infulted the Coaſts of
the Cyclades, and other Iſlands. Theſe Succeſſes put the
Romans into a good Humour, and the beginning of Ar-
gyrus's Reign gave them Hopes that he would make
them Amends for his Father-in-law's Male-Adminiſtra-
tion. But he was too old to learn the Art of Govern-
ment, and to pleaſe Zoe, who, tho' near Fifty Years
of Age, wanted a Husband of a more vigorous Con-
ftitution to ſatisfy ber amorous Deſires. Conſtantine was
the-laft Emperor of the Race of Bafilius the Macedoni-
an, and dy'd the 12 of November in the Third Year of 1028
his own Reign; the Fifth of Conrade the Second, Em-
peror of Germany; the Twelfth of Canute, King of
England; the Thirtieth of Robert the Good, King of
France; and the Fifth of the Pontificate of Pope John
the Twentieth.
1
1
1
A
A
?
H
СНА Р.
1
1
>
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IIT:
A
CH A P.
III.
1
From the Death of Conſtantine IX.
the laſt Emperor of the Race of Ba-
filius the Macedonian, to the Re-
ſignation of Iſaac Comnenus, and
the Advancement of Conſtantine
Ducas.
Containing the space of Thirty Two Tears.
Romanus III.
A.D. THERE are ſome Authors who diſagree in their
1028 Accounts of Argyrus's Birth with thoſe
from whom
we took our Memoirs. They ſay his Father was an
ordinary Man, and himſelf bred a Banker; that he got
ſuch a' prodigious Eſtate by his Trade, as to ren-
der him ſuſpected to the Miniſtry, who knew whar an
Intereft he had acquir'd in the Empire by his vaſt Riches,
which were too great for any Subject to poſſeſs. When
ther this, or our former Relation of his Deſcent and
Fortune is true or not, 'tis certain, he was from a pri-
vate Perſon advanc'd co the Prince's Zoe's Bed and the
Imperial Throne. He at firſt behav'd himſelf upright-
ly in ir: He appeard Active and Zealous for the Pub-
lick Good : He eas'd he Provinces of ſeveral burtben-
fome Taxés, impos'd on them by Conſtantine ; and the
Church was particularly oblig'd to him for his Libera-
lity. The Romans were mightily pleas'd with their
Zoe dif
gufted ar
new Emperor, and only Zoe was diſcontented with the
Romanus. Choice her Father had made of him to be her Husband
and
Chap. III.
Romanus III.
*
98
3
A.DE
1028
and his Succeffor. But theſe Halcyon Days were of no
long Continuance; for when the Affairs of the Empire
began to be Unfortunate, and the Buſineſs of the State
a little Intricate, Romanus thew'd himſelf to be neither
ſo good, nor ſo able a Prince, as ’rwas expected be
would prove.
។
The Saracens in Afia, whom the former Emperors
had reduc'd ſo low, that they durft not attack the Em-
pire, obſerving the Roman Arms were taken up in
Defence of their new Conqueſts in Europe, and that
Conftantine had brought their Affairs from a flouriſhing
into almoſt a deſperare Condition, reſolv'd to afferr
their Liberty, and ſhake off the Yoke the Emperors
Nicephorus, Zimiſces and Bafilius had laid on ſeveral
Cities of Syria and Phenicia. The Caliph of Berrea
was the firſt that took Arms and made Inroads into the The Sara.
Roman Territories, as far as the Gates of Antioch. Spon- cens break
dyles, Governor of that City, had beco often worſted the Peace.
by him, and help'd forward the Succeſſes of the Sara-
cens as much by his Folly as his Misfortune. There
was an Arabian Captive in Antioch, who perceiring
Spondyles to be a vain ſelf-conceited Perfon, flatter'd
him for his Courage, and prerended, if he might be
permitted to adviſe, he would put him in a way to re-
cure thar City and the Neighbourhood from the Incur-
fions of his Country.men. Spondyles hearkening to his
Inſinuations, ſuffer'd him to build a Fort ar a little Di-
Atance from the City, made him Governor of it, and
plac'd a thouſand Men in Garriſon in it under him. The
Arabian held a Correſpondence wiih the General of the
Infidels, and at a time appointed, ſurrender'd the Fore
to him, who maſſacred the whole Garriſon.
Romanus to revenge this Affront, rais'd a numerous Ar.
my, and paſt over with it into Aſia. He remov'd
Spondyles from his Government, and march'd into Syria.
The Caliph of Berræa ſent to buy a Pardon and a
Peace; but the Emperor miſtaking his Caution for Fcar,
would not hearken to any Terms of an Accommodati-
on; he march'd into the Enemy's Country, where the
Caliph, who was enrag'd to have his Submillions re.
Ty defest
jected, ſurpriz'd and cut off part of his Army. ang thie" Ro-
roved Confiantinus Delialfinus, Rominus's Rival, for
his
1
و
1.
H2
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. III.
1028
re
A.D. his wife and Crown. Theſe Defeats fo diſpirited the
Romans, that in a Council of War 'twas reſolv'd to re-
crear, which they did in Diſorder. The Saracens fell
on their Rear, entirely defeated them, and the Empe-
ror bimſelf, with much Difficulty, made his Eſcape to
1030 Antioch. Moſt of his Soldiers were either kill'd or
taken. The Imperial Baggage fell into the Enemy's
Hands, but was all recover'd by the Valour and Poli-
cy of Maniaces, Governor of a City not far from the
place of Battle. The Saracens, to the Number of 800,
baften'd thither with their Booty, and ſummond the
Governor to ſurrender, intending to leave their Trea-
ſure there, while they ſcowr'd the Country to pick up
the ftragling Romans. To prevail with Maniaces to o.
pen the Gates, they told him the Emperor's Army was
totally routed, and all his Baggage taken. They
fhew'd him part of his Treaſures to prove what they
ſaid to be true. Maniaces either ſuſpecting the Triach,
or reſolving to hold out as long as poſſible, deſir'd time
till the next Morning and then he would deliver the
Town to them, intending in the mean while to prepare
all things for a vigorous Defence. The Saracens be-
lieving the Town would be their own at the time ap-
pointed, encampe before it and fell to Drinking. Ma-
niaces hearing they were in full ſecurity, Drunk or a-
Deep, ſally'd out upon them, cut them to Pieces, and
recover'd all the Emperor's Baggage, and the Booty the
Infidels had taken from the Romans. Romanus rejoyc’d
extreamly for this Succeſs, and rewarded Maniaces an-
(werable to the Service he had done him. The Empe-
ror return d Inglorionfly to Conftantinople, and having
been at a rat Expence in the late Expedition, to fill
his Coffers again, he loaded the Provinces with Taxes,
reviv'd old Claims, and grievouſly Burthen'd the Peo-
ple. The Mcny that he rais'd by theſe ſevere Impofiti-
ons he ſquander'd away on Monks who highly extolld
his Deration, and enrich'd thoſe tlaç were ſworn to be
Poor
He wolted immenſe Sums on his Buildings, and
concern'd himſelf very litrie about the Safety of the Eaſt,
where the S.xv.1.001s trade frequent incurhons, and waſted
the Roman Territories in a most deplorable manner. In
the following carthe City of Conjtantinople was tcrri.
bly
Chap. III.
Romanus III.
99
1
bly ſhaken by an Earthquake for Forty Days together, A.D.
the Citizens living all that while in the moſt dreadfui 1031
Conſternation imaginable.
Beſides the Empreſs Zoe, Conſtantine left two other
Daughters, Eudoxia who was elder than Zoe, and Theo-
dora, the youngeſt of the Three Siſters. The eldeſt hav-
ing been very much disfigur'd by the Plague, renounc'd
the World, and ſhut her ſelf up in a Monaſtery. The
younger had been offer'd by her Father, in Marriage
to Romanus, but ſhe made a ſcruple of Marrying him,
on account of his having a Wife living. The elder
Siſter was not ſo fcrupulous, ſhe accepted of him for
her Husband, and by that means became Empreſs.
Zoe being jealous of her Siſter, prevaild with Romanus
to command that ſhe ſhould be thorn and thruſt into a
Monaſtery; from whence ſhe was afterwards taken and
honour'd wirh the Imperial Purple. In the mean time
Zoe hates
Zoe grew more and more out of Love with her Hus-
Romanus
band, who us'd all the Arts that the Wantonneſs of the for his In-
Eaſt could invent, to ſupply his want of Youth, and ſufficiency.
render him an agreeable Companion to her in her Bed.
But all theſe Arts were ineffectual: Nature was too
powerful in her and too weak in him ; tho’he thought
he was not only young enough ró give Content to a La.
dy of Fifty Years old, but alſo that he might have
Children by her to ſucceed him in the Imperial Throne.
The Empreſs had at firſt the ſame Hopes, which vanih'd
before ſhe had try'd him half a Year, and ever after
ſhe had an Averſion to him. When Argyrus perceiv'd
it, and that all his Endeavours to pleale her were in
vain, he forbore the conjugal Embraces; and Zoe who
could not be ſatisfy'd with a little Love, was much
leſs Content with none.
While Romanus was a private Man, he had a Ser-
vant for whom he had a value, and after his Acceſſion
to the Throne, advanc'd him to be Steward of the Hou-
fhold to the Empreſs; his Name was Michael, and from
the Place of his Birth he was Sirnam'd the Paphlagoni-
an. Michael recommended his Brother 7ohn to Romanus,
who took him into his Service, and when he was Empe-
sor, employ'd him in the Miniſtry. He was a fitter
Man for Bufineſs than Michael, and as be became uſe.
H 3
ful
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. III.
A. D. ful to the Emperor he gain’d an Aſcendant over him,
1031 infomuch that his Intereſt became greater than Micha-
el's. Whether the Empreſs hated him for the Favour
he was in with his Maſter, or becauſe he was an Eu-
nuch, is uncertain; but the always bore an Enmity ta
him, till the began to caſt an amorous Eye on his Bro-
ther Michael, who was Younger and Handſomer, and
as much more proper to charm an Empreſs as he was to
pleaſe an Emperor. Zoe growing in Love with him,
began to carry her ſelf more Civil towards his Brother
Fohn. She admitted him often into her Converſation,
and their Diſcourſe was always about Michael
. The
cunning Eunuch ſoon diſcover'd the Empreſs's Inclinati.
on, and reſolving to make his Eortune by his Brother's,
put Michael in a way to ſatisfie the Empreſs, and raiſe
himſelf to the ſovereign Power. He bad him, if ever
Michael
ſhe was familiar with him, to ſeize boldly the Favour
the Paph- which he perceiv'd ſhe was willing enough to grant,
lagonian, and then they ſhould have her at their diſpoſal. Micha-
in Fivour el follow d his Inſtructions, and became ſo great with
rith the the Empreſs, that the whole Court took notice of it,
Empreſs. Romanus himſelf was only blind to his own ſhame. And
ver the liberty Zoe took in her Amours was not enough,
the could not be ſatisfy'd without ſhe enjoy'd her Lover
openly, and might have him at all times without Stealch
or Fear; wherefore the reſolv'd to remove her old Hus
band out of the way, to make room for her young
Lover in his Throne, as ſhe had already receiv'd him
into his Bed. To this end ſhe gave Romanus a Doſe of
Poiſon, which working flowly, made her impatient to
fee che effects 'of it ; lo me order'd ſome of her Crea.
tures to Suffocate him as he was Bathing himſelf, by
Zoe Poy-
Funs and boiding his Head under Water till he was Dead. Thus
Strangles was the Emperor Romanus Argyrus Murder'd' on the
Romårus. 11th of April, in the Sixth Year of his Reiga.
121 A. D. 1624. The Emprefs affected to thew an extra-
ordinary Sorrow at his Death, but perceiving every Bo-
dy took it for grimace, me refolv'd to put no farther
conftraint on her ſelf; the ſent for the Patriarch Alexi-
245, and commanded him to Marry her immediately to
Michael The Patriarch was ſurpriz'd at her Impu-
dence, to think of another Husband before the late
Eimperor
Ý
m.mm
Chap. III.
100
Romanus IIT.
Emperor was ſcarce cold. He delay'd to Marry her for A. D.
ſome time, at laſt Fohn the Eunuch brought him Fifty 1034
Pounds of Gold, and then the good Prelate condeſcend,
ed to join them in Wedlock. The Money being an She mar.
Argument, That neither his Reaſon, Religion or Decen-ries Mi-
cy could refift. After the Marriage Michael was pro-
chael, who
cíaim'd Emperor, and John his Brother, contrary to
is pro-
claim'd
Zoes's Intention, ſo manag'd Matters, thar the Admini-
ftration fell entirely into his Brother's and his Hands,
Emperors
the Empreſs having no more of it than they thought fit
to leave her.
Michael IV.
1
THE Advancement of ſo mean a Perſon as Michael
to the ſupream Authority, rais'd him many Ene.
mies among the Nobility. Conſtantinus Delaſſenus was
the moſt offended, and him Fohn endeavour'd by Pre.
ſents, Promiſes and Threats to get to Courr. He ſuc-
ceeded in his Endeavours. Conſtantine did Homage to
the Emperor, and when John had him in his Power, he
contrary to his Oath, had him ſeiz'd and ſent to the
Inand Prota, where he liv'd in Confinement till after
the Baniſhment of Michael Calaphates, Nephew to the
Emperor now Reigning.
John remov'd all the Empreſs's Confidents and fe-
male Favourites, knowing by what means his Brother
gain'd her and the Empire; and fearing thoſe vicious
Women might tempt her to'rid her ſelf of him as the
had remov'd her former Husband, to take another to
her Bed; he plac'd Eunuchs about her, and had Spies in
every corner, which render'd her Condition little better
than that of a Priſoner. He turn'd out all thoſe Officers
in whom he could not confide, and gave their poſts to
his Creatures. Among others he diſplac'd Conſtantino
Monomachus, or the Fencer, from his Ofices and Go-
vernments. Monomachus had been Governor of Antioci,
Grand Doineſtick, or General of the Roman Armies,
and was very much belov'd by the Soldiery; which
made the Eunuch Fohn jealous of him, and his jealoufe
H
공
​1
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. III.
.:-
į
A. D. was the cauſe of Conftantine's Diſgrace. Monomacus
1034 afterwards was advane'd to the Imperial Throne, and
then he remember'd and return'd the ill Offices the Eu-
nuch had done him. Nicetas, Michael's Brother, had
his Government of Antioch, and a grant of three noble
Men's Eſtates in Aſia, which were confiſcated for their
holding a Correſpondence with Delaſſenus. The Eu-
nuch advanc'd Maniaces to be Governour of upper
Media, and aftewards ſent bim with Forces into Sici.
ly, where the Roman Army proſper'd ſo well, that thir.
teen Cities ſubmitted to the Emperor. Their Proſperity
however was of ſhort duration, for the Normans were
too ſtrong for both Greeks and Saracens. Fobn acted in
the high Station of chief Miniſter, with an unlimited
Aurhority ; his Brother had only the Name of Empe.
ror, the Eunuch enjoy'd the fole Power, and Michael
did not ſeem unealie at it. His Conſcience began to
Torment him for bis Parricide and Adultery. The
Death of Romanus, who had always been kind to him,
was always in his Thoughts. Murder and Ingratitude,
two of the moit ugly Furies, continually haunted him.
Michael The Divine Vengeance ftruck him with a foul Diſeaſe,
groros de- which ſoon defac'd that Beauty which had charm'd the
formid.
Empreſs, and render'd him as deform'd in Body as he
was in Mind. Zoe who prefer'd bim only for his Hand-
ſomneſs, when that was gone, would have fèrv'd him
as the did her former Husband, had not John been
watchful of her and prevented her wicked Deſigns.
Michael repented of his Sin, and endeavour'd to attone
for i: by Acts of Charity and Devotion, but he had not
Courage enough to throw off the Adultereſs, by whoſe
Embraces all his Penitence became ſuſpected ; and tho’
he ſeem'd to Repent heartily, yet while he lay in the
Arms of the Wornan that had rempred him to the Sing
his Sorrow could not be ſo real as he pretended.
Fohn perceiving his Brother was never like to have
any Children, prevaild with him to adopt Michael, Sir-
nam'd Calaphates, their Siſter Mary's Son. The Empe-
ror alſo gor the Empreſs to adopt him, and he was crea-
ted Cofir. When Zoon had thus fecur'd the Succeſſion
in bis Family, he cock little care to give Content to the
Empreſs, who ſeeing her ſelf deſpis'd, and almoſt con-
fin'd
5
i
Chap. III.
101
Michael IV.
I
find to her Chamber by him, was fo enrag'd that ſhe re- A.B.
foly'd ro Poiſon him ; but John had ſo many Eyes over 1034
her, that her deſign was diſcover'd, and the Eunuch was
the more careful of his Preſervation afterwards.
In the third Year of Michael's Reign, the Saracens
made an attempt to ſurprize Edeſſa. Twelve of the
chief Men among them came to the City with 500 laden
Camels, pretending the Boxes they carry'd were full of The Sara-
Treaſure, which the Caliph intended to preſent to the cens de.
Emperor. They deſir'd to be admitted into the Town Stroyed by 2
with their Train. As for themſelves the Governor re-
Stratagem
of their
ceiv'd and Entertain'd them very Civilly, but having.own.
reaſon to miſtruſt that all the Boxes were not full of
Preſents, he refus'd to admit the Camels. 'Tis ſaid
there were Twelve Thouſand Men ftow'd in thoſe
Boxes, who if the Governor had ſuffer'd them to enter
the Place, were to have got out of them, kill'd the Cen-
tinels and ſurpriz’d the Caſtle. A poor Armenian diſ-
cover'd the Treaſon to him, and while the Twelve Sao
racens were Feaſting in the Caitle, the Governor left
them, took a conſiderable Party of Men with him, fal-
ly'd out of the Town, and Slew all that lay conceald,
without any oppoſition. He then return'd to thoſe
whom he left at home, and put all to the Sword except
one, whoſe Hands, Ears and Nole he orderd to be
cut off, and ſent bim to give the Caliph an account of
the Fate of his Companions.
In the mean time the Emperor's Sickneſs, Fobn's Ty.
ranny and Zoe's Diſcontent continu'd. The Eunuch
was become odious to the People, by his cruel Exacti-
ons to fill the empty Coffers of his Relations, who were
ſo mean, thar Stephen, his Siſter Mary's Husband, and
Father of Michael Calaphates, had been bred to caulk
Ships, by which Trade bis Parents got their Living.
The Empire was deſtroy'd by Earthquakes, fo violent,
ihat it ſeem'd as if the Earth was torn from her Baſis,
and the whole Globe returning to its original Chaos:
The Bulgarians alſo revolred, and God and Man appear'd
to be Arm'd againſt the Romans. The Revolt of the
Bulgarians was occaſion'd by this means.
Peter, firnam'd Deleanus, a Bulgarian, ferv'd a Citi-The Bulga-
zen of Conftantinople, who uling him ill, Deleanus rap rians re-
away vok.
1
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. III.
A.D. away from him into his own Country, where he gave
1034 out, That he was the Son of Romanus, Son of Samuel,
King of Bulgaria, who began the War which ended in
the Reign of his Family and Kingdom. Zonaras writes,
That he call'd himſelf the natural Son of Aaron, Sa-
muel's Brother. Whatever his Pretences were, 'tis cer-
tain the Bulgarians, who were weary of the Roman
Yoke, took that opportunity to endeavour to ſhake it
off, came into him in great numbers, and proclaim'd
him King, purring all the Greeks they laid Hands on to
the Sword. At the ſame time the Citizens of Dyrra-
chium roſe againſt their Governor, Michael Dermocaitas,
whom the Eunuch had advanc'd to the prejudice of Ba-
filius Synadenus their former Governor, with whom Der-
mocaitas had had a Quarrel. The Inhabitants drove
him out of the Town, and apprehending that the Em-
peror would ſeverely Chaſtize them for their Preſumpti-
on, they grew bold in their Deſpair, and choſe Theoco-
mire, a famous Soldier, to be their King. Theocomire
had a powerful Intereſt in Bulgaria, and Deleanus fear-
ing he ſhould not be a Match for his Competitor, wrote
civil Letters to him, inviting him to come and ſhare the
Sovereignty with him. Theocomire, who was no great
Politician, accepted of his Invitation, and went to him ;
when he came to his Army, Deleanus ſet the Soldiers ſo
againſt him, that they Stond him to Death. He then
march'd towards Theſſalonica. When he approach'd near
the Roman Camp, Ibatza, a Bulgarian, who had been
advanc'd to ſeveral Places of Honour and Truſt in the
Empire, deſerted to him with all the Emperor's Trea-
ſures which were in his keeping; and Michael no ſooner
heard of Deleanus's approach, but he left the Army
which he pretended to Command in Perſon, and fled to
Conſtantinople. Deleanus took Dyrrachium, and ſubjected
the Province of Nicopolis. The Eunuch ſtill continud
Impoveriſhing the Romans by Impoſitions, Fines and For-
feitures. Among others whom he had Perſecured, was.
Alufianus, a Bulgarian Prince, fecond Son of Aaron,
Brother of Samuel, whom the Emperor Bafilius had made
a Patrician, and given him the Government of Theodofio-
polis. This Man John provok'd to leave his Places and
fly into his own Country. He took away a fine Woman
from
j
Chap. IIS.
102
Michael IV.
7
1
from 'him whom he tenderly Lovid, forbad him the A. D.
Courr, and Find him a great Sum of Mony on a falſe 1031
Accufation of a Crime, which he would never ſuffer
to be brought to a Trial. Upon this Alufianus diſgui-
Gng himſelf like an Armenian, fled to Deleanus, who
putwardly Honour'd and Careft him; bur inwardly he
was vext to ſee a Prince of the Royal Family in Arms
there, knowing he was himſelf an Importer. The Bul-
garians alſo inclin'd to receive him as their King, which
oblig'd Deleanus to accept of him for his Collegue. Alu-
fianus march'd immediately with Forty Thouſand Men
into the Empire and befieg'd Theſſalonica, which City
was ſo well defended by Conſtantine the Patrician, a
Kinſinan of the Emperor, that Alufianus was forc'd to
raiſe the Siege, leaving Fifteen Thouſand Men dead be-
fore it. This Misfortune heightend the Differences be.
tween Alufianus and Deleanus, till at laſt the former in-
vited the latter to an Entertainment, feaſted him high-
ly, made bim drunk and then put out his Eyes, not one
of his Followers daring to revenge him. Alufianus not-
withſtanding that he was now ſole King of Bulgaria,
apprehended that the Bulgarians, whoſe Inconſtancy
was very well known to him, would be weary of bim
as they were of Deleanus, thought it his Intereſt to make
his Peace with the Emperor, and the Terms being 2-
greed upon, he came to Myfinopolis, where Michael
then lay with an Army intending to invade his King.
dom. The Emperor made him Grand Domeſtick, and
enter'd Bulgaria in Perſon, took Deleanus and ſent him
reduc'do
in Chains to Theſſalonica. Ibatza alſo fell into his Hands,
and was Punith'd as his Treaſon deſerv'd. The whole
Country fubmitted to him. He plac'd a Governor over
it with the Title of Duke, and return'd in Triumph co
Conſtantinople, where his Ditempers increaſing, he grew
weary of the World, put on the Habit of a Monk, and The Erapet
ſpent the remainder of his Life in acts of Piety and ror retires
Penitence. He did not long ſurvive his Abdication, into a Ma
for on the Tenth of December, ihree Months after his naſtery.
return from Bulgaria, he Dy'd, having Reign'd Seven
Years and Eight Months. A. D. 1041. He was a
Man of little worth, and had not his Beauty been greater
than his Merit, he might never have riſen higher than to
be
And are
1
$
$
Chap. III.
The Roman Hiſtory
A.D. be a Goldſmith, the Trade to which ſome Writers ſay
1041 he was bred. He ſeems to have minded the Affairs of
the Government very little, and his Incapacity to ma-
nage them was perhaps the cauſe of it. He was ill
ſervd by his Brother, whom he truſted with all his
Power, and the Eunuch's Avarice contributed much
more than his own Weakneſs, to the ill Character he
lies under in the Byzantine Hiſtories.
Michael V.
1
?
venta
ON
N the Abdication and Death of Michael the Papha
lagonian, the Sovereignty devolv'd to Zoe; but Mi-
chael Calaphates inſinuated ſo far inte her good Graces,
that he prevaild with her to conſent he ſhould be
Crown'd Emperor, on Condition he banith'd John and
his Eunuchs, and that ſhe ſhould be ſtild Empreſs and
Mother of the Emperor. Theſe Articles were ſoon
broken by Michael, who was Govern'd by his Unkle
John in the beginning of his Reign, but being offended
with him afterwards, he banih'd him for aſſuming more
Zoe thrust Power than he was then willing to allow him. He al.
into a Con- ſo drove the Empreſs Zoe out of the Imperial Palace,
tho' he ow'd his Advancement to her Adoption : He
fally accus'd her of Witchcraft, and as he was Un-
grateful to his Benefactor, ſo he was Tyrannical to his
Subjects, whoſe Hopes of him were foon turn'd into
Fears and Deſpair,
Before he came to the Crown he was Generous and
Active, but when he was in poffeffion of the Sovereign-
ty be grew Slothful and Coverous, and trod in his Un-
kle Fobn's Steps. The People, tho they did not love
Zoe ſo well as they would have done, had her Virtue
been aseminent as her Rank, pity'd the Empreſs's Mil-
fortune, and lookt on her ungrateful adopted Son with
Indignation. The defeat of Stephen, his Father,
who was ſent to command the Roman Army in Sicily,
made the Family the more odious. Maniaces, the Im-
pecial General in that land, had flain Fifty Thouſand
Saracens in one Battel, and recover'd ſeveral Cities;
but
Chap. III.
rog
Michael V.
but his Enemies repreſenting him to the late Emperor A. D.
as a dangerous Perſon, he was recall'd when the Ro- 1041
mans were in a fair way of driving thence both Sara-
cens and Normans. Stephen, who had marry'd the Em .
peror's Siſter Mary, had his Command given him, and
his ill Succeſs ſerv'd to ſet the Romans the more againſt
the Houſe of Michael the Paphlagonian.
The Empreſs Zoe being ſhur up in a Monaſtery, and she is ta-
the Emperor giving himſelf over to all manner of ſenſu- ken thence
al Pleaſure, wallowing in Luft and Luxury, the Citi- by the Deos
zens of Conftantinople roſe as one Man in the defence
ple,
of the Emprefs, took Zoe and her Siſter Theodora out
of the Convents where they were confind, carry'd them
to the Great Church and ſaluted them Empreſſes. Mi-
chael ſeeing 'twas in vain for him to refilt ſuch a Tor-
sent, gave way to it and retir'd into a Monaſtery with
bis Brother. Bur that did not ſave them from the effects
of the Empreſs's Refentments. Theodora would have
had their Heads cut off ;. but Zoe who had not ſuffer'd
The Empe
ſo much, was contented to have their Eyes put our: The
ror flies
two Princes hearing of the Sentence that was paſt a-to Santud:
gainſt them, fled to St. John Baptiſt Church for Sanctu-ry.
ary, but theRabble dragg’d them out, and they were Blind-
ed and Banifht after Michael had Reign'd four Months. Is Blindedo
Zoe being reſtor'd to the Imperial Power, could not be
fatisfy'd with Empire only, without a Husband. She Zoe mara
caſt her Eyes on Conſtantine Monomacus, whom ſhe had ries Con-
recalled from Baniſhment with Maniaces and others, ftantinus
Monoma
that were ſent into Exile by Fohn the Eunuch. · Him
the marry'd, and orderd the Patriarch to Crown
him, which was done accordingly on the Twelth of
June 1042.
1043
cus,
Conſtantine X.
M Aniaces thought himſelf as worthy the ſupreme
Dignity as Conftantine, and reſenting the Prefe-
rence. Zoe gave to Monomacus, join'd in with the Male-
contents, and ſoon encreaſt the Faction ſo much by his
Intereſt, thar the new Emperor was in no little danger
of
The Roman Hiſtory:
Chap. III.
A.D. of loſing the Crown almoſt as ſoon as he got it : To
3042 which his own Indiſcretion contributed; for having had
a Miſtreſs who was deſcended from the illuſtrious
Houſe of Sclerus, and had ſupply'd him with Mony out
of her own Eſtate during his Misfortunes; he continu'd
his Familiarity with her, and the had ſo much Power
over him that ſhe did what the pleas'd with him, to the
great Mortification of Zoe and the Diſcontent of the Peo-
ple. She had a Brother whole Eſtate join'd to that of
Maniaces, and there being a mortal Hatred between
them, ſhe ſo manag'd Conſtantine in her Brother's be-
half, that Maniaces was turn'd out of all his Offices,
and another General ſent to take on him the Command
of the Army, to which Maniaces had been reſtor'd.
This General ſeeing his Diſgrace and Deſtruction were
inevitable without having recourſe to violent Methods,
Maniaces engag'd the Soldiers in his Intereſt, kill'd the Perfon
ufurps.
that was to have ſucceeded him as General of the Army,
affum'd the Imperial Stile and Authority, and was pro-
claim d Emperor by his Soldiers. Againſt him Conſtan-
tine ſent Stephen Sebaftophorus, whom Maniaces defeate
He dies ed, and had he not ſuddenly fallen Dead from his Horſe,
fuddenly. Monomacus might have found an Enemy in him, too
ſtrong for him to diſpute the Sovereignty with. His
Soldiers upon his Death threw down their Arms, cut
off their General's Head and ſent it to Stephen, who pro-
cur'd them the Emperor's Pardon; and tho' he had been
overthrown, had the Honour of a Triumph when he
return'd to Conſtantinople. Some time after Conſtantine
fought the Ruſſians, who attack'd the Imperial Ciry by
Sea. The Emperor's Fleet obtain'd a compleat Victory
over the Barbarians, of whom Fifteen Thouſand periſht
in the Engagement. This Succeſs was follow'd by an-
4043
other againſt his domeſtick Enemies, who had form'd
ſeveral Machinations to deſtroy him, but he detected
them all and puniſht the Criminals. One of their De-
figns was carry'd on ſo far that the Party roſe in Con-
ſtantinople, gather'd the Rabble together, and threaten'd
to drive Monomacus out of the Palace. He went in'
Perſon to appeaſe them, who ſeeing him advance, threw
Stones at him; and he had been Murder'd by them,
had he riot return'd to the Palace faſter than he came
from
Chap. III.
104
Conſtantine X.
r
neers.
from it. His Guards kill'd ſome of the Rabble, and A. D.
the reſt diſpers'd. The Emperor made Examples of 1043
their. Leaders, and Pardon'd the reſt of the Muti-
Leo Tornicius who commanded the Imperial Army Leo Tor
in Thrace, having by his Beauty and Bravery gain'd nicius 355
the Hearts of the Soldiers, of the Macedonian Troops ſurps.
eſpecially, Conſtantine procur'd a falſe Charge to be
brought againſt him, and thruſt him into a Convent,
from whence the Macedonians took him by force, and
oblig'd him to aſſume the Imperial Title and Ornaments
at Adrianople. His Party growing numerous, he march'd
at the Head of 'em towards Conftantinople, expecting
the Citizens who had lately been diſoblig'd by Mono-
macus, would open the Gates to him; but they made
ſo vigorous a defence that he was forc'd to raiſe the
Siege, and his Followers diſcourag'd by his Misfortune,
left him. Leo with a few of his faithful Friends retrear-
ed to Arcadiopolis, where he defended himſelf with
great Reſolution, but at laſt he was taken and ſent in Is taken
Chains to the Emperor, who order'd him to be Blinded and blinda
ed.
and Baniſht.
We muſt now give ſome account of the riſe and Power
1046
of the Turkiſh Empire in Aſia, where about this time
they began to raiſe their Dominion above either the Ro- and gromas
mans or Saracens. In the Year 844. the Turks left their of the
cold Dwellings in Scythia, paſt by the Caſpian Streights Turkiſſa
thro' Georgia into the Greater Armenia, where they ſet- Powero,
led, and the Country has ever ſince been call’d Turco-
mania. They kept their Ground, but did not enlarge
ic in near Two Hundred Years, at which time Maho-
met, Sultan of Perfia, being hard preſt by the Indians
on one Hand, and the Caliph of Babylon on the other,
deſir'd help of the Turks, who leat him 3000 Men un-
der the Command of Tangrolipix, by whore Conduct
and Valour the Caliph of Babylon was entirely defeated,
and the Incurſions of the Indians reſtrain'd. When Miz.
bomet had overcome all his Enemies, the Turks defir'd
leave to return home, which che Sulian refuling, they
mutiny'd and retreated to the Deſert of Caravonitis,
from whence they often made Sallies and plunder'd the
neighbouring Villages. Again't thein Malomet ſenç an
Ariny
The riſe
+
!
.
1
:
1
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. III.
A.D. Army of 20000 Men, whom Tangrolipix defeated, and
1946 his Victory drew in a great Number of Saracens to
join with him in hopes of Booty. By theſe helps he
was enabled to leave the Forreſt and march into the
open Country. He fought Mahomet near Iſpahan, and
the Sultan falling off from his Horſe and breaking his
Neck in the beginning of the Battle, the two Armies
came to an Agreement, choſe Tangrolipix Sultan in his
ſtead and made way for the future Greatneſs of the
Turkiſh Power. The new Sultan preſently ſent for an
innumerable Multitude of his Countrymen, advanc'd
them to the greateſt Dignities of Perſia, and by their
affiftance ſubdu'd the Caliph of Babylon, whoſe Domi-
nions he added to his own. Cutlu Moſes, his Kinſman
The Turks and General in Arabia, had not ſo good Succeſs; bis
Romans. Army was defeated, and he was forc'd to beg leave of
Stephen, the Roman Governor of Media, to retreat into
Perfia thro' his Province. Stephen hearing he had been
routed by the Arabians, thought he might obtain an eaſie
Victory over him, refus'd him Paſſage, fell upon him,
and was ſhamefully beaten, Cutlu Moſes when he re-
turn'd to Tangrolipix, informd him of the Treatment
he had met with from the Romans, and of the Pleaſant-
neſs and Fertility of Media, adviſing him to turn his
Forces to that Country. - Tangrolipix highly reſenting
his defeat by the Arabians, would not hearken to him,
reſolving to reduce the Saracens before he attackr the
Romans. Curlu Mofes fearing the effects of the Sultan's
Diſpleaſure while he was abſent in the Arabian War,
ſeiz'd a ſtrong City in Penyia, and affum'd the Sovereign
Authority. In the mean while Tangrolipix was himſelf
overcome by the Arabians; and the Army be ſent to
Media afterwards to try his Fortune chere, had the ſame
Fate. The Romans defeated it, and the Sultan to re-
venge the Shame, ſent his Brother Abram Alim with
100000 Men, co invade the Eohpire. The Governor
of Media nor being ſtrong enough to oppoſe ſuch a Mulo
titude, kept his Men in the walld Towns, and wrote
to Liparites, Governor of Iberia, for Succours. Alim
inveſted the City of Aracn, which was rich and full of
Merchants, but was not ſtrong; ſo he eaſily made him-
felf Maſter of the place, and the Treaſure that was in
is
1
t
:
Chap. III.
IOS
Conſtantine X.
A
it. Liparites coming to the aſſiſtance of the Governor A. D.
of Media, they join'd their Forces, gave the Turkis Bat- 1046
rel, were defeated and Liparites taken Priſoner. The
Emperor Monomaous offer'd a large Sum for his Ranſom,
which the Sultan refus’d to take, but ſec Liparites at lle
berry without it, warning him not to bear Arms againſt
the Turks again. The Sultan order'd his Xeriph to go to
Conſtantinople, and demand a Tribure of the Emperor ;
The Turka
who receiving the Meſfage and Meſſenger with fcorn, Tangrolie
Tangrolipix reſolu'd to invade the Empire with his pix, ile-
whole Strength; and Monomacus prepar'd to oppoſe Tribute of
bim with all bis Forces, which thouglr he had occafion to the Empe-
employ elſewhere, yet by reaſon of the Civil War be- por.
tween Tangrolipix and his Brother Abram, whom he
overthrew, cook Priſoner and puc to Death, and Cutlu
Mofes, whom he drove into Arabia; the Turks did not
then gain any great Advantages oyer the Romans. ..
Conſtantine was preparing to paſs over into Aſia,
when be heard of the Invaſion of the Patzinace, a Peo-
ple of Scythia ; who declar'd War with the Romans on
this account. Tyrach, their Prince, envying the Glory of
Kegenes, his General, who had obtain'd ſeveral Victories
in his Service, fear'd he might improve his Intereſt and
Reputation among the Soldiers to his Prejudice, where-
fore he reſolu'd to remove fo dangerous a Rival. Ke The Scythi-
genes being inform’d of his Deſign, revolted, and Tyrach an tür.
having defeated him, he fled to the Emperor for Pro-
tection. Monomacus receiv'd him favourably, align'd
him three Caſtles on the Borders of Scythia and Troops
to Garriſon them; with which Kegcnes made frequent
Inroads into Tyrach's Territories. The Scythian como
plaind of it to the Emperor, who deſpiſing his Com-
plaints, the Patzinace broke into the Empire with Eight
Hundred Thouſand Men, whom the Romans were in no
Condition to reſiſt, had it not pleas'd God to viſit them
with a Sickneſs occafion'd by their Intemperance, which
ſwept away vart Numbers of them, and ſo weaken'd
che reſt, that Kegeres advis'd the Romans to attack them. The RO.
Accordingly Michael, the Enıperor's Lieutenant, fell mansionis
upon them and entirely routed them. The Scyebians the Barba:
threw down their Arms and beg'd Quarter, which Mistians
chael granted to all thoſe that fell into his Power; bus 1057
Regenes (par'd none that had nor Mony to buy their
h
Lives
:
106
!
Chap. III.
The Roman Hiſtory.
!
A. D. Lives of him. Tyrach and One Hundred and Forty of
IOSI. bis Nobility were ſent to Conſtantinople, where they em-
brac'd the Chriſtian Religion, and were preferid by the
Emperor to Places of Profit and Honour. Fifteen
Thouſand of the Patzinace were liſted in the Roman
Legions, and the reſt were diſpers'd thro' Bulgaria and
other Provinces, The Scythians difiking that the Em-
peror was about to ſend ſuch of them as bad liſted in
his Army, to ſerve againſt the Turks in Afia, deſerted
and withdrew into their own Country, where they per-
ſwaded. the Patzinace to make another. Irruption into
the Roman Empire, which they did with more Pury,
tho' with leſs Numbers than before: Monomacus ore;
der'd Kegenes to artend him, to have his Advice in the
matter, and conſult with him how they might put a
ſtop to them. The Patinacæ enrag'd at Kegenes's Zeal
againſt them, reſolved to Affaffinate him. Three of the:
moſt deſperate among them, undertook to kill him in
his Tent, in the Roman Camp near Conſtantinople. They
enter'd his Tent, but before they could Murder him his
Guards came in upon them. They bad juſt time to
give him a ſlight Wound, and were ſeiz'd in the Fact.
They refus'd to anſwer any Queſtions, appealing
to the Emperor ; which put a ſtop to their Examinati-
ons. Kegenes rode ro Court in a Charior, and the
three Ruffians follow'd him in Chains. When they
came before Conſtantine, he ask'd Baltaſar, Kegenes's
Son, Why the Villains had not been killd on the spot.
Baltaſar anſwer'd, Becauſe they had appealed to him. The
Emperor ſuſpecting fome Treachery in the Matter,
ſent for the Criminals, and demanded of them, For what
they attempted ſuch a daring and bloody Enterprize ?
They reply'd, To ſerve him, for that Kegenes intended
the next Day to ſeize and ſack the Imperial City. Mo-
nomacus too eaſily gave Credit to the falſe Charge, and
threw Regenes and his son into Priſon. Which ſo of.
fended the Scythians who had follow'd him into the Em-
pire, that they left the Camp and delerted to their
Country-men. The Emperor had no way to clear his
Territories of theſe Invaders, bue to ſend Tyrach and
the Scythian Noblemen, whom he had advanc'd, to
perſuade their Countrymen to retreat. Tyrach and the
faithleſs Scythians join'd with the Patinaca, who ob-
tain'd
--
Chap. III.
107
Conſtantine X.
$
>
A Peace
mans.
tain'd ſeveral Advantages over the Romans, ſo that Mo- A. D.
nomacus was forc'd to releaſe Kegenes, who promis'd to 1051
prevail on the Patinace to retire. Accordingly he went
to them , giving 'em notice firſt of his Errand, and tak-
ing Oaths from their Deputies for the ſafery of his Per-
fon. Norwithſtanding which, as ſoon as he was in
their Power, they cur him to Pieces. The War conti.
nu'd two Years, and the Patiñace had almoſt always
*the berter of the Romans. However receiving Informa-
"tion that Conſtantine had drain'd all his Garriſons in the
Eaſt, and was raiſing all the Forces his Empire could
furnith him with, deſigning to extirpare the very Name
of them, they were afraid to ſtand out longer againſt
between
'offers of Peace, which they accepted with Joy; and
them and
purſuant to Articles agreed on between Ambaſſadors on
the RO-
both fides, a Thirty Years Truce was concluded be.
.
tween them and the Romans.
This War very much weaken'd the Empire, and
made the Progreſs of the Turks in Aſia the more eaſie,
Monomacus contriburing to their Succeſs by his Negli-
gence and Avarice. For whereas the Eastern Provin-
ces on the Borders us'd to be free from Taxes, be-
cauſe they lay more expos'd to the Incurſions of the In-
fidels than the other Provinces, and maintain'd Forces
to defend them; Monomacus lay'd as heavy Impofiti.
ons on them as on the others, and particularly on the
Province of Iberia, which maintain'd soooo Men for
its defence. Theſe Troops be either recalld or dir.
banded, to put the Mony that was to have maintain'd
them, in his own Pocker, and to disburſe it on his Luſts
and Extravagancies. The Turks knew the weakneſs of
the Frontiers, and invaded them at Pleaſure, carrying
off always a grear Booty. At laſt Tangrolipix enter'd
the Empire in Perfon, but hearing Michael Acoluthus,
a valiant Captain, was advancing to give luin Battel,
he retir’d; diſdaining to engage with a Man ſo much
inferior to him. His Pride lav'd the Roman Territo-
ries at that time, but Conſtantine's example was ſo fatal
to bis Succeffors, that by neglecting to provide for the
Cafery of the Eaſtern Provinces, the Turks by degrees
drove the Greeks out of Aſia, and in the end made 'em
their Slaves in Europe,
11
108
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. III.
A. D.
As the Turks preſt hard on the Greeks in Aſia, ſo the
105! Latins were too powerful for them in Europe, the Nor-
mans driving them quite out of Sicily and Apulia. The
Emperor continu'd his lewd and expenſive Courſes;
he was ſo ungrateful to Zoe, that he order'd his Miſtreſs
Sclera to be declard Auguſta, and gave her his left
Hand, when he ſat down on his Throne, as he did his
right to the Empreſs; who worn out with Age and
Zoe's
Deathe
Sorrow, departed this Life at Seventy Years old. Mo-
nom acus affected to appear ſo much concern'd at her
Death, that 'twas thought he would not long ſurvive
her ; but it did not laſt, and he forgot her in a
- few. Weeks ſo much, that he took another Woman to
his Bed. She was an Alan Prince's Daughter left in
Hoſtage at Conſtantinople. Conſtantine proclaim'd ber
Auguſta, but durft not venture to Marry her, having
had three Wives before, and the fourth Marriage was
unlawful by the Greek Canons. Beſides he was afraid
to provoke Theodora, by declaring her Empreſs. He
deſign'd Nicephorus, General of his Armies in Bulgaria,
to be his Succeſſor; which Theodora underſtanding, the
left the Emperor in the Monaſtery of St. George in
Mingana, where he was taken ill, and haften'd to the Im.
perial Palace, where ſhe took the Government on her
Theodora felf, and was proclaim'd Empreſs ; at which Conſtan-
ajumes the tine was ſo griev'd that it ftruck him to the Heart ;
imperial he fetch'd a deep Sigh, when he heard of it, and dy'd
Conftan. in the Thirteenth Year of his Reign. A. D. 1054.
tine's
This Prince had few good Qualities and many bad
Death and Ones. He was Lewd and Inconſtanr, Intemperate and
Chirler. Slothful. The beſt thing that can be ſaid of him is, hę
was Charitable to the Poor. A Virtue that will hide,
tho' not atone, for many Vices.
Theodora.
T His Empreſs began her Reign with Chaſtizing all
thoſe thar lad any way proinored Monomacus's de
Gignacion of Nicephorus, who dy'd almoſt as ſoon as the
Nate Emperor, or before him, according to ſome Au.
thors. She order'd their Eſtates to be confiſcated and
their
Chap. III.
109
Theodora.
their Perſons baniſht. Among others that were ſent in. A. D.
to Exile, were Ifaacius Comnenus, and Bryennius a Ma 1051
cedonian, Generals of the Eaſtern Armies. She put
Theodore, an Eunuch, at the Head of the Army in Aſia,
who obtain'd ſeveral 'Victories over the Infidels, Turks
and Sararens ; and in the mean time his Miſtreſs, by
her prudent and happy Adminiftration, gave the Romans
a feint Taft of their former Proſperity. She heard
Cauſes, receiv'd Embaſſiesy and deliver'd her Opinion
to her Council in Perſon. Her Subjects were ſo pleas'd
with her Government, that they wilh'd it had com-
menc'd ſooner or could laſt longer, but ſhe was very
Old when the affum'd the Sovereign Power, and after
The had enjoy'd it One Year and Nine Months the dy'd Theodo-
of an Iliack Paſſion, on the 22d of Auguſt 1056. Leo ra's Deathe
Straboſpondylus, her prime Miniſter, and the Eunuchs of
the Palace, perceiving her end was nigh, that they
might continue the Government in their own Hands,
prevail'd with her five Days before her Death, to declare
Michael Stratioticus, or the Warrior, Emperor. He
was ſo old that Leo knew he muſt leave the Adminiſtra-
tion to him and his Creatures; beſides, having from a
Child been bred up to the Wars, he knew nothing of
State Affairs; and was indeed unworthy the high Stari:
on to which he was advanc'd,
Michael VI.
1
T Heodorus, Preſident of the Council, and Couſin Ger-
man to Monomacus, endeavour'd ro ſer aſide Stratio-
ticus, He ſummond his Friends together, and march'd
with them to the Imperial Palace, where the Eunuchs
were prepard to reſiſt him; which ſo diſcourag'd his
Followers, that they abandon'd him; and being himſelf
apprehended he was baniſhr to Pergamus. Michael had
now no Competitor to diſpute the Sovereignty with
him, and he might have enjoy'd it longer than he did,
had he not diſoblig'd the general Officers of the Army,
by his unkind Behaviour to them who had been his
Companions in the Wars. He turn'd out Ambuſi us Cit-
tacalo froin his Government of Antioch. Ofended
Lanciki
1
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. III.
A. D. Ifaacius Comnemus; and tho' he recallid Bryennius, yet
1051 he made him his Enemy, by refugng to reſtore his
Eſtate, which Theodora bad unjuſtly confiſcated.
Ambuftus repreſented to the Generals how ill they
had been us'd by Michael, and propos'd to them to
chuſe another Emperor, which they reſolu'd on and
communicated their Deſign to Bryeřnius, to whom Stras
tioticus had given the Command of the Forces that were
to act againſt the Turks. Bryennius approv'd of their
Proceedings, and the Generals made choice of Ambu-
ftus to be Emperor ; which Dignity he refus'd on ac-
count of his great Age, and propos'd Ifaacius Comnenus
as a proper Perſon to be promoted to that high Station.
The Officers preſently approv'd of him, and he was E-
lected ; they then (wore Fidelity to him, and ſepara-
ted each to the Poft that was aſſign'd him. To prepare
Things for ſetting him effectually on the Throne, Bryen-
nius went to Aſia, to put himſelf at the Head of che
Troops he was to Command; He ſeiz'd the Mony Fobin
Apſaras, the Emperor's Treaſurer, carry'd over to Pay
the Army, threw Apſaras into Priſon, and diſtributed the
Gold among his Soldiers as he thought fit. Lycanthes,
a Patrician, who commanded the Lycaonians and Piſidi.
ans, and knew nothing of the late Reſolutions of the
Generals, imagin'd Bryennius intended to uſurp, ſo he
ſurpriz'd him, attacke and took bim Priſoner. Apſaras
being releas'd, put out Bryennius's Eyes and ſent him to
Conſtantinople, io tell the Emperor why he had been ſo
treated. The other Generals having Information of
Bryennius's Misfortune, were apprehenſive that he might
diſcover their Conſpiracy, wherefore they reſolv'd io
rake Arms, and declare openly what they intended to
do. They took Ifaacius Comnenus from his Houſe in
Paphlagonia, and carry'd him to the Army, where he
was faluted Emperor the 8th of June in the Year 1057.
Ifaacius Comnenus.
Omnenus loſing no time, march'd his Army towards
Nice, the Capital of Bithynia, where he was acknow-
ledgid Emperor, and the Garriſon left the Place to make
room for his Men to Quarter there. Michael muſter'd
alt
Chap. III.
11
Ifaacius Comnenus.
all his Weſtern Forces, and made Theodore, the late Em A.D.
preſs's Eunuch, and Aaron Ducas, his Generals to op. 105.7
poſe his new Competitor, who bearing of their ap-
proach, left a good Garriſon in Nice, and met them to
give 'em Battel
. Ambuftus commanded his left Wing,
Romanus Sclerus his right, and himſelf the main Bo-
dy. Aaron Ducas led the right Wing of the Imperial
Army, and defeated the Wing which he oppos’d, piercd
as far as Comnenus's Camp, and took Romanus Priſoner.
But being too cautious in improving his Succeſs, Am-
buſtus, who had broken the left Wing of Michael's Ar-
my, return'd to the aſſiſtance of Connenus in the main
Body; and both falling upon Ducas put him to flight, Comne-
by which Michael's Forces were entirely defeated. This nus defeats
Michael's
News was ſo terrible to the old Emperor, that he was
Army
diſpos’d to reſign the Sovereignty to Comnenus, bur thoſe
who were about him, would not let him till they heard
of the new Emperor's marching towards the Coaſts,
in order to tranſport his Army to Europe and attack the
Imperial City. They therefore conſented to a Treaty,
and concluded it with Comnenus, who was to be adopt-
ed Cæſar, his Followers pardon'd, and Michael to yield
him the Adminiſtration. Ambuftus declar'd againſt the
Treaty, ſaying, Neither Comnenus nor themſelves could
be safe while Michael was in the Throne. Michael's A.
gents betray'd him, and privately encourag'd Ambuftus
to demand he ſhould be depos'd. To which Comnenus
was the ſooner induc'd to conſent, for that Stratioticus,
while the Treaty was on foot, had forc'd the Senators at
Conſtantinople, to ſwear never to admit Iſaacius to Reign
over them: Which had no effect ; for as ſcon as they
heard of Comnenus's approach, they all declar'd for
him, and decreed that all that opposd him, hould be
treated as Enemies to the Empire. The Patriarch join'd
with them in it, and ſent Orders to Michael to leave
the Imperial Palace. The old Emperor ask the Prelates
who brought him thoſe Orders, What the Patriarch
would give him in exchange for an Empire. They re- Michael
ply d, The Kingdom of Heaven. He was forc'd to ac-retires in
cept of the exchange, and laying aſide his Imperial a 910 a'tc-
Robes to put on the Habit of a Monk, and retire ro a
Monaſtery, after a ſhort Reign of about a year or Thir.
teen Months.
The
1).
112
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IIT.
A.D. The next Day being the firſt of September, Comnenus
1057 arriv’d, and was Crown'd by the Patriarch Michael Ce-
rularius, in the Great Church. At his conting to the
Crown he order'd a Meddal to be ſtruck, having his
Image on ic holding a Sword in his Hand; to fhew he
got the Empire by Arins. He highly reverenc'd che
Patriarch, and preferred his Nephews, but that Prelate
offending him afterwards, by eſpouling the Cauſe of
the Latin Church, he ſent him into Baniſhment, and
plac'd Conſtantine Lichudes in the Patriarchal Chair.
He took away the Revenues of the Monaſteries, allow-
ing the Monks juſt enough for their affiſtance: He was
alike ſevere to Clergy and Laity, high and low; and
his Reparation, as a great Caprain, kept both his own
Subjects and the neighbouring Nations quiet. In the
third Year of his Reign, as he was a Hunting, he was
lightly ſtruck with a Thunderbolt, which he took for an
Admonition from Heaven to repent of his Sins; where-
fore he reſolv'd to reſign his Imperial Power to ſome
Perſon worthy of that Dignity, without having any
regard for his Kindred or Family, and to ſpend the
reſt of his Days in a Monaſtery. Conſtantine Ducas
Comrie-
was a Man of ſo many rare Qualities, that he thought
the ſims,
he could not do better for the Empire than to prefer him
and reſigns to the Sovereignty ; which he did accordingly, and then
the Empire ſhut himfelf up in the Monaſtery of Studita, where he
to Con- ſhew'd ſo much exemplary Piery and Humility, that he
ftantine was generally eſteem'd a true Penitent .He deſcended ſo
Dlicas, low as to do menial Offices for the Abbot and Brother:
hood of the Convent, and never ſeem'd in the leaſt to
be ſorry that he had parted with the ſupreme Authori-
ty. Some Writers report that he offer'd it to his Brother
Fobn Comnenus, who refuſing to accept of ir, he relign'd
it to Ducas after he had Reign'd two Years and three
Months, and retir'd voluntarily into a Monaſtery, where
he dy'd in the next Year, the Fourth of Henry IV.
Emperor of Germany. The Eighteenth of Edward the
Confeſſor, King of England. The laſt of Henry I.
King of France. And the firſt of the Pontificate of
Pope Nicholas II A. D. 1060.
nus does
СНАР,
Chap. IV.
113
Conſtantine Ducas,
CH A P. IV.
From the Reſignation of Iſaac Com-
nenus and the Advancement of
Conſtantine Ducas, to the Reign
of Alexius Comnenus.
Containing the Space of Twenty Two Tears.
Conſtantine Ducas.
Conftantine being thus advane'd to the Imperial A. D.
Throne, few'd by his Actions that he was wor. 1059.
thy the High Dignity his. Predeceſſor had honour'd
him with. He employ'd all his Authority in the be-
ginning of his Reign, to ſuppreſs the growing Vice
of Avarice; into which however he fell himſelf before
the end of it. He reliev'd the oppreſt and decided
Cauſes in Perſon, withour diftinction of Quality or
Degree, and by his Juſtice and Impartiality became a
Terror to Evil doers, and the Darling of all good tine Du-
Conſtan-
Men. Happy bad it been for himſelf and the Empire, cas's good
if he had gone on in the Righteous Paths, he now
Qualities.
walk'd in, and had not wander'd from them ſo much
as he did afterwards.
Ifaac Comnenus, who, as we have ſaid, was retir'd
into the Monaſtery of Studitæ, recover'd bis Health
there to admiration, yer he ſhew'd no manner of In.
clination to return to the Exerciſe of the Imperial Pow.
er. Oo the contrary he carry'd himſelf towards the Comne-
new Emperor very affectionately, and Conſtantine was nus's car-
as Grateful as he was Kind, paying him the ſame age to
bim
Reſpect as if he had been ſtill his Sovereign, calling
him his Lord and Emperor, and whenever he came to And his to
Viſit him, which he did frequently, making him fit Comne-
1
harraps
114
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
;
A.D. above him. Iſaac delighted extreamly in his retir'd
1059. Life, and was ſo obliging to the Brotherhood of his
Houſe, that they Lov'd him now as much as they Ho.
nour'd him when he was their Emperor. He condeſ.
cended to do the Offices of the Monaſtery, and
ſerv'd the Abbot at his Table, leaving behind him
when he Dy'd, which fome Author's ſay was one Year,
and others eleven Years after, a rare Example of
Chriftian Humility:
The Emperor Ducas had not long worn the Crown,
which Ifaac had beſtow'd on him, before he was
threatend to have it ravith'd from him by ſome of
his own Friends who were moft zealous for his
Promotion, and when he was Promoted, envy'd his
Dignity. The Conſpiracy they had form'd againſt
him being diſcover'd to him, he prudently Suppreſs’d
it, and endeavour'd by his wiſe and equitable Admi.
niſtration, to gain the Affections of his people, which
he knew would be his beſt Security : And he ſucceed-
ed in his Endeavours till he began to appear Cove-
tous of their Wealth, to burthen them with Impofiti-
ons, and out of a fatal Frugality to leave the Pro-
He grows vinces in Aſia expos'd to the Incurſions of the Turks.
Covetous.
The Garriſons there were thin, the Soldiers for wanı
of Encouragement and Reward, grew Remiſs and
Negligent, and the Infidels knowing the ill Condition
of che Empire for defence, prepar'd to invade it on all
fides.. Conſtantine who dreaded the Expence of a
War as much as the loſs of his Dominions, made
no Preparations to oppoſe obem by Arms; be choſe ra-
ther to do as ſome of his predeceſſors of the ſame Tem-
per were wont to do on the like Occaſions, purchaſe
Peace with his Money, and by that baſe means be
kept the Turks quiet. But the Uſians, a People of
Scytlia, would not be bought off with the tender of
TA: Scy. a vaſt Sum down, and the offer of a yearly Tri.
thians in- buce. They broke into the
They broke into the Empire with an Army
vade the
of no fewer than 500000 Men, threarning her with
tropire
the fame Ruin which the had ſuffer'd by the Huns,
with an Ar
Vandals and Lombards. They routed the Bulgari-
ans that oppos’d their Pafſage, and defeated all the
509000
111:.
Roman Parties that made Head againſt theirs.
my of
AC
Chap. IV: Conſtantine Ducas.
I15
A
At laſt the Emperor's İndignation was rous'd, and A. D.
he levy'd an Army of 150000 Men, to drive them 10596
out of his Territories, which was done by Geifa,
King of Hungary, whoſe Dominions they had waita
ed in their March. The Hungarians fell upon them
by ſurprize and Cue them to Pieces; if we may
give Credit to the Hiſtorians of theſe dark Ages,
Are roured
who affect in the deſcription of Armies, to make
by the Hun-
the Number prodigious, and of Rours to make the
garians.
Deſtruction entire.
There are very few Events in this Reign worth
the Reader's Notice, which are tranſmitted down to
us in the Hiſtories of theſe Times. We are told
that the Greeks made ſeveral Inſurrections, through
the uneaſineſs of the Government, which were quick-
ly ſuppreſs’d; and that the Turks invaded the Pro-
vinces in Europe, which is ſcarce credible. The
Barbarians having nor yes learnt to croſs the Euxine Don and
or Hellefpont, nor to penetrate into Thrace by paffing Danube,
the Tanais and the Ifter. Thoſe Rivers were too far Nic. Bryes
diſtant from their Country, which lay near Mount nn.
Caucaſus in Aſia.
In the latter part of Ducas's Reign, the Citics of Con-
ftantinople, Cizycum and Nice, were miſerably Torn
by Earthquakes, forerunners of the horrible Devaſta-
tions tbat the Infidels will in a few Years commic
in all parts of the Roman Territories. The remain-
der of Conſtantine's Reign was ſpent by him in con-
ëriving how to ſecure the Crown to his Children.
He had three Sons and three Daughters by his Wife
Eudoxia Delaſſena, of a noble Family in Conſtanti-
nople. He honour'd his Eldeft, and his ſecond Sons
Michael and Andronicus, with the Title of Emperors ;
and Conſtantine his third, had alſo that fupream Title
beltow'd on him, becauſe he was Bern after his Fa-
ther's Acceffion to the Imperial Throne. His Broches
was created Cafür : He left the Empire to all his Sons,
under the Guardianſhip of their Mother E440x14,
without affigning themi particular Provinces. The
Roman Territories were now brought ioro lo narrow
a Compaſs, that they could not well be devided from
each other, without endangering the lots of all of
them. Conſtantine apprehending that Manuel, the
12
Son
I
116
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
Swairs nes
Vor 10 mer
A. D. Son of Ifaac Cominenus, might give his Sons ſome
1059. Trouble after his Death, tho he had been very quiet
The Em- in bis Life time, oblig'd all the Senators to Swear
preſs Eu- that they would admit none to Reign over them but
doxia
his Sons, and he exacted an Oath of his Wife, that
mide Reo ſhe would not Marry, to prevent any Danger of
gent.
Uſurpation by the Man the ſhould take to her
Bed : Which Oath was Sign'd and Sworn to in the
preſence of the Patriarch, and afterwards lodg‘d with
ry.
him to be produc'd upon occaſion. The Emperor
having thus diſpos'd of the Succeſſion, departed this
A D. Life in May, in the Sixtieth Year of his Age, and
1067.
the Eighth of his Reign.
Conftan-
The Character of this Prince would give him a Place
cine's
Death and with the beſt of the Roman Emperors, bad it not
Character, been fully'd by his Avarice. He was a Lover of
plain Dealing, a Parron of Learning and learn'd
Men ; and often declar'd, He ſhould have valu'd more
to have been Enobled by Learning than Dominion. He
was Devout, and very Impartial in the diſtribution of
Juſtice, even in the latter part of his Reign, unleſs
himſelf or his Friends were concern'd in the Matters
in Debare.
As ſoon as the Emperor was Dead, Eudoxia, as he
had orderd during his Life time, took on her the Re-
gency; at which the Enemies of the Houſe of Ducas
were very much diſpleas'd. They raild at their Sub.
jection to a Woman's Government; and the Turks
aboat this time waſting the Provinces of Cilicia, Cay-
padocia and Pamphilia, they laid all the Fault on the
Regent, who had neither Friends to truft, nor Forces
to employ againſt them. The People who are al-
ways out of Humour with the Government when
things go croſs, imputed all their Loffes to Eudoxia's
Management, and their Murmurs ſeem'd to threaren a
Muriny. The Empreſs knew that the only way to
keep them in Subjection, would be to Marry fome
Man of Courage and Conduct, whoſe Authority might
awe their onruly Spirits, and defend her ſelf and her
Children from the Inſults of their Subjects. But then
the confider'd ſhe might endanger her Sons Succeffion if
the took a bold ambitious Man to be her husband,
who being once in Poffeffion of the Sovereign Power,
mighs
+
Chap. IV.
Conſtantine Ducas.
117
-
.
might be loath to part with it ; yet theſe Conſideraci. A. D.
ons did not hinder her ſo much as that of the Oath 1067
which the Patriarch had in his Hands, and by which
the was cy'd never to Marry. If ſhe could by any
means get that out of his Cuſtody, and be diſcharg'd
from it, ſhe was come to a Reſolution not only to
Marry, but who ſhould be the Man.
Romanus Diogenes, a Man of the firſt Quality, Duke
or Governor of Sardis, had been Accus'd and Im-
priſon d for aſpiring to the Sovereignty: He was
Handſome and "Brave, Qualities that gain much on
her Sex; and his Misfortunes being occagon'd more
through the Malice of his Enemies than his own Guilt, Romanus
The firſt inclin'dio Picy and then to Love him. He Diogene's
was brought out of Priſon to his Trial, and the Evi Tryal.
dence, whether true or falſe is not determin'd-by the
Hiſtorians from whom we take this Event, being full
and poſitive as to the Fact charg'd upon him, he was
about to receive Sentence of Death. Eudoxia was
preſent, and in the Minute that he was to be Con-
dem'd, order'd a ſtop to be put to the Proceedings,
reprov'd him gently for his Crime, and took it to her
ſelf co Correct him, which ſhe did very mildly. She
oblig'd him to take an Oath of Fidelity to her, gave
him his Liberry and the Command of all her Forces,
with an larimation that the deſign'd to do more for
bim, if he deſervd her Favour by his Loyalty and
Obedience.
The next thing the had to do was to get the Writing
from the Patriarch, and to effect this the made uſe of
her Female Arts and Diffinulation; the order'd an
Agent of hers to repreſent to that Prelare, the Incon,
veniencies of her Governing without a Husband, and
at the ſame time to infinuate, that the inclin'd to Mar-
ry the Biſhop's Nephew, Bardas, a young Gentleman,
whoſe greateſt Merit was his Relation to the Patriarch.
Fob» Xiphilin fare at that time in the Metropolitan Eudoxia
Chair of Conſtantinople, a Man well known in the prevails
learn'd World, but better vers'd in Hiftory, Philofo- with the
Patriarch
pby, and Divinity, than in the Politicks of a Court,
to difcberge
He was charm'd witb the proſpect of inaking his Ne ber from
phew an Emperor, and was as ready to diſcharge the ber Oath
Empreſs from her Oaika as ſhe was to have him, He not so Marz
13
not ry.
!
.
$18
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
A. D. not only conſented to her Marriage himſelf, but pre-
1067. vaild with moſt of the Senators to give their conſent,
by repreſenting to them how the Empire was threa-
ten'd by her Enemies on all fides, and little could be
expected from the defence of a Woman. He exclaim'd
againſt the late Emperor's extorting an Oath from the
Empreſs not to Marry, as a rath and unwarrantable
Thing; and demonſtrated with all his Eloquence,
'twas both Juſt and Reaſonable that, the ſhould be
diſcharg'd from the Obfervance of it, for the good
of her felf, her Children, and the whole Empire
The Senators noç ſuſpecting that a Man of Xiphilin's
Probity could have any finifter Deſigns in what he
ſaid, were eaſily convinc'd by his Reaſons, thar the
Oath was Unlawful and Unreaſonable, and ought not
to be obſerv'd; accordingly they made a Decree that
it ſhould be cancell'd, which was done, and the Pa.
triarch Abſolv'd her from it with a great deal of Soa
lemnity.
Anal Mar Eudoxia had wbat the wanted, and immediately
ries Dio- after Marry'd Romanus, whom the caus'd to be Pro-
genes. claim'd Emperor as ſoon as their Nuptials were cele.
Who is pro- brated, which were perform'd in December, and in
claim'd
January he was Crownd with the uſual Solemnity.
Emperor.
1068
Romanus IV.
1
1
}
:
1
THE
HE firſt thing he did after his Inauguration, was
to ſend an Army into Aſia to'oppoſe the Turks
who Ravagd the Eaſtern Provinces at Pleaſure. He
gave the Command of theſe Forces to Manuel Son of
John, Brother of Iſaac Comnenus the Emperor, on
whom he alſo bellow'd the Office of Protoſtrator.
Miker of Manuel pait over into Aſia and fought a Body of the
z? Horje. Turks Commanded by Chryfofculus, a Prince of their
Royal Family who aſpir'd to their rown, was defeat-
ed and taken. Being brought into Chryfofculus's preſence
and admitted into his private Converfation, he per-
fuaded hint to implore the Affiſtance of the Roman
Emperor, if he intended to make himſelf Maſter of the
Turki Crown, which was then worn by Tangrolipix.
Chry:
Į
}
Chap. IV.
119
\
Romanus IV.
Chryfofculus hearken'd to his Advice, and went with A. D.
him to Conftantinople, where the Barbarian was honon 1068.
rably Entertain'd by Romanus, and Manuel's Addreſs
in bringing his Conqueror home with him to beg Peace
and Help, was very much admir'd.
The next Year Manuel undertook another Expedita
1069.
on againſt the Infidels, which was inore unfucceſsful
to him than the laſt, for he was taken ill in Bithynia,
of a Diftemper which carry'd him to his Grave, much
lamented by Romanus and by his Friend Chry/ofcu!us.
On News of his Death, the Emperor himſelf .paft:
over into Afia, and took the Command of the Army
upon him, Alexius Comnenus, Manuels Brother,
ſerving under him this Campaign at fourteen Years of
Age.
The Emperor march'd into the Turks Dominions,
contrary to the Opinion of Foſeph Tarconiotus, and
Nicephorus Bryennius, two of the moſt experiencia
Commanders, who advis'd him to ſtay in hs own
Territories, and there expect the Infidels. But Ro-
minus having had ſome light Advantages over the
Enemy, was guided by the Counſels of his Flarterers,
and leaving ſeveral Cities behind him in the Turks Diogenes
Poffeffion advanc'd into the Sultan's Dominions. Bell Marches
lacius joyn'd him near Mazicerta with the Trocps of into the
Turkish
Syria and Armenia, he was a ſtout Man, and hid the
Territories
Reputation of a good Soldier. He ſaid every Thing
wbich he thought would pleaſe the Emperor beſt,
whether true or falſe; and to Flatter him, told him
the Sultan was retir'd inio Babylon with all his Forces
on his Approach. The Emperor believing there was
no Enemy in the Field to Oppoſe him, divided his
Army into two parts, the better to Ravage the Coun-
try. He commanded one Body himſelf, the other
he gave to Foſeph Tarcaniot, wich Orders to Atrack
the City of Cleat. Iarcamiot was an Excellent Com-
mander, well vers'd in the Arts and Scraragems of
War, and not approving the Diviſion of the Army
in an Énemies Country would have difraded ihe
Emperor from it ; but he rely'd ſo much on Bafila ius's
falſe Advice, that he was, Obftinate in bis Opinion,
and Poſitive in requiring Obedience to his Ord so
Three Days after, the Turks fell upon a Party o Rus
14
?,3 11:$
{
1
I 20
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
A. D. mans, who were Forraging, kill'd a great Number,
1069. and took the reſt Priſoners. The Emperor being in-
form'd of it, ſent for Baſilacius, and ask'd whence
the Barbarians could come, if the Sultan had fled with
all bis Troops into Babylon : Bafilacius affur'd him
'cwas only a Party of the Garriſon of Cleat, who
were ſcowring the Neighbouring Country. Thus he
kept Diogenes in the Dark, and he knew not that
the Sultan Axan, Son of Tangrolipix, had rais'd' a
prodigious Army, and was approaching to Fight him,
tho his advanc'd Guards had taken ſeveral of the
Roman Officers. Bafilacius ſtill affirm'd that theſe ad-
vanc'd Guards did not come from the Sultan's Camp,
but from the Garriſon of Cleat, and to prove it, de.
fir'd leave to Attack them, which having obrain'd,
be mounted on Horſeback, and being accompany'd by
a few Romans of his own forward Temper, running
without Order or Diſcipline, overtook the Turks, who
pretended to fly before him; when they had drawn
him by it as far as they deſir'd, they turn'd upon
him, chargéd and defeated him, making ſuch a
Slaughter that there was ſcarce a Man left to carry
back the News of his Defeat. Baſilacius was wound.
ed, and found among the Dead; the Barbarians car-
sy'd him to Axan, who order'd his Wounds to be
cur'd, and treated him with great Huinanity.
When Romanus receiv'd Information of this Over-
throw, he commanded Bryennius to March againſt
the Turks with the Left Wing of the whole Army,
and prevent the Incurſions they made even to the Ro-
man Camp. Bryennius departed with his Troops im-
mediately; yet he cou'd ſee no Enemy in his March till
he came near the Place where Bafilacius was routed,
and then the Infidels came pouring in upon him from
all Quarters. However, he made good his Ground
for ſeveral Hours, and after he had loſt many of his
Men, and was bimſelf Wounded, he retreated Ho-
nourably to the Roman Camp without giving the E-
nemy any Advantage over him.
The next Day a
Council of War was held, and 'twas debated whe-
ther the Romans ſhould give the Enemy Battle before
the Parties that were out return'd to the Camp, or
ſtay for their coming in. Romanus ſeem'd moſt in-
clin'd
Chap. IV.
121
Romanus IV.
clin'd to fight them without delay, being inſtigated to A. D.
it by ſome of his Courtiers, who flatter'd him as if 1069.
he was invincible. Bryennius, and the old Officers
were not for ſtirring out of their Camp, but for For.
tifying themſelves in ir. The boldeſt Advice was
the moſt acceptable to the Emperor, whoſe Senti-
ments ſway'd with the Majority, and the Romans
march'd out to meet the Turks, who rejoyc'd that
they were come forth of their Entrenchments. The
Romans drew up in Order of Battle, and the Barba-
rians did the ſame. Taranga the Eunuch, to whom
Axan committed the Care of the War, laid ſeveral
Ambuſcades for the Romans, and whenever the Chri-
ftians attack'd the Infidels, they ran away from them,
till they had drawn them into the Snare that was
laid for them, by which means many of their Parties
were Cut off. The Emperor weary of his Loſſes,
tho' they were not very great as yet, reſolv'd to de.
cide the Diſpute by a general Battle. The Turks, as
uſual, fled before him in the beginning of the Engage-
ment, but watching their Time as Taranga had in-
ſtructed them, when the Romans began to be in Dif-
order in the Purſuir, they fac'd about with great Fu-
ry and a terrible Noiſe, broke the Right Wing of the
Chriſtian Army, upon which the Rear-guard gave
Ground, and the Emperor with a few of his moſt
faithful Followers was left Fighting in the midst of
his Enemies, the Left Wing advancing to his Affi-
ftance, the Turks charg'd it in the Rear, and routed
it. Romanus thus depriv'd of all hope of Relief,
fought deſperately, kill'd ſeveral Turks, and drove
back others that came to Attack him, till at laſt being
ſurrounded by them, he was wounded in the Hand,
and known to be the Roman Emperor. His Horſe
alſo was wounded and fell, ſo he was taken Priſoner,
bound in Chains, and carry'd to the Sultan, and with
ror defeat
him many Perſons of Quality, who were near him. zzken Prie
ed, and
The greateſt part of the Army was cut to Pieces, a soner.
few eſcap'd, and got into the Roman Terricories.
The Chriſtians Camp was plunderd, and the Empe-
ror's Tent, rich Furniture and Jewels fell into the
Hands of the Conquerors.
The Empe.
A few
I
1
122
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
A, D. A few Days after the Defeat, one of the Germans
1069. who eſcap'd in the Rour arriv'd at Conſtantinople, and
gave an Account of Romanus's Misfortune. The Em.
preſs was extreamly griev'd and perplex'd at the
News; the wanted Advice, and knew not whoſe to
take, or whom to truſt in ſuch an Emergency. Fohre
Ducas, the late Emperor's Brother was then in By-
thynia, where he ſpent his Time, ſince Ramanus's
Advancement, in Hunting, and other rural Sports. She
reſolu'd to ſend for him, and deſire his Counſel and
Affiftance on this fad Occaſion. Before he could
Arrive at Conftantinople, the conſulted the chief of-
ficers of the Court, who all advis’d her to take upon
her the Adminiſtration of Affairs in behalf of her
Children. Shortly after, Fobn, who was ſtild Cæfar
arriving, advis d cbat Michael, the Eldeſt of his
Brother's Sons mould aſſume the Imperial Title and
Aurboricy, and Exdoxia content her ſelf with the
Name of Empreſs. The Power he thought beſt to
Michael Poffefs himſelf, which he could not if the Emprefs
Ducas Pro-
was declar'd Regent. Cæſar's Counſel prevaild at
claim'd
Court, and Michael Ducas perſuant to ić was pro-
1070.
Emperor. claim'd Emperor.
Michael Ducas.
E muſt now ſee what became of Romanus,
whom we left a Priſoner in Afia : Axan re-
ceiv'd him rather like a Friend than an Enemy; he
did not ſhew the leaſt Vanily, on his Victory, but
kept his Temper, and ordering the Roman Emperor's
Chains to be ftruck off, embrac'd him, comforted
him, and did every thing he could think of to make
his Capriviry eage to him. He made him Ear at his
own Table, and inſtead of perſuing his Conqueſts,
enter'd into a Treaty of Peace with him, on Condi-
tions equally Honourable and Advantageous io Roma-
91215, whom he ſent Home withour Ranſom, and with
an Equipage ſuitable to his high Quality. He alſo
di miſs's the other Roman Priſoners at the Emperor's
Requct, ſurprizing the whole world with his Ge-
neroſity
Chap. IV.
123
Michael Ducas.
ſ
neroſity and Humanity. 'Tis reported, that when A. D.
Romanus was brought into bis Prelence firſt, he ask'd 1070.
him how he would have treated him, had Fortune
given him the ſame Advantage; and that the Empe-
ror confeſs'd be would have run him through : To
which Axan reply'd, I will not imitate that Cruelty
Po little conformable to what Jeſus Chriſt your Prophet The Sul-
bas commanded you. By this Converſation one would tan's Clea
not think that the firſt was a Roman, and a Chriſtian,
's mency to
and the laft an Infidel, and Barbarian. But the Greeks, Diogenes.
when they were themſelves become one of the moſt
barbarous Nations of Europe, affected like their Pre-
deceffors the old Romans to call the People without
she Pale of their Empire Barbarians.
Diogenes hearing what had happen'd at Conſtantino-
ple in his Abſence, made all poſſible hafte Home,
and wrote to the Empreſs to give ber an Account of
his Liberty and Arrival in the Roman Territories. As He is ſet
Soon as it was known at Constantinople that Romanus at Liberty,
was Free, and coming Home, the People flock'd and re-
about the Palace to ſee what would be the Iffue of
turns.
the Buſineſs. Some ſaid it was not true, and others,
that if it was, Michael was their rightful and lawful
Emperor. Romanus's late Diſgrace had loſt him the
Favour of the Greeks, and he had few Friends to ap-
pear or ſpeak for him. Eudoxia, who did not ex.
pect that he would be ſo ſoon Free, began to repent
of what fe had done; the call'd her Friends about
her, defiring their Advice what the ſhould do in the
preſent juncture of Affairs. Ceſar knowing himſelf
and his Nephews would be ruin'd, if Diogenes ſhould
be re-admitted to the Sovereignty, gain'd the Officers
and Soldiers of the Imperial Guards, and divided
them into two Parties. He commanded one of them
* to follow his Sons Andronicus and Conſtantine Ducas,
whom he order'd to ſeize the Palace, and Proclaim
his Nephew Michael Emperor. The other he led to
the Empreſs's Apartment, who was frighted at the
Noiſe the Soldiers made, and apprehending the worſt
was almoſt Dead with Fear: When Cælar enter'd,
he ſpoke her fair, but advis'd her to leave the Palace,
or he could nor Promiſe to Protect her from the In-
folence of the Guards, who had declar'd that they
would
į
124
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
from the
1
A. D. would have Michael Ducas to Reign over them, and
1070. himſelf to be Regent during his Minority. She con-
Eudoxia ſented to it, and going aboard a Ship that lay in the
depos'd
Haven, the retir'd to a Monaſtery The had built at
che Mouth of the Streight, where ſhe took the Vail,
Regency, and ſpent the reſt of her Days in Acts of Penitence
and Devotion.
Romanus perceiving there was no likelihood of re.
coveirng his Authority by fair means, levy'd ſome Sol-
diers, and ſeiz'd the City of Amafia in Cappadocia.
Diogenes Cefar order'd his youngeſt Son Conſtantine to March
: takes againſt him, and to take him, or drive him out of
Arms. Amaſia. Dingenes was fo far from flying from him,
that he drew his Troops out of the City, put them
in Order of Battle, and offer'd Conſtantine the Com-
bar.
. The two Commanders behav'd themſelves with
equal Courage and Conduct in the Engagement, and
the Victory was ſometime doubtful: At laſt Conftan.
tine's Youth and Vigour prevaild, be broke in upon
is Defeat the Body that opposd that which he led, put them to
ed.
Flight, and making a great Slaughter, oblig'd Ro-
manus to leave the field. He hid himſelf in a little
Fort, and had been taken then, if a certain Arme-
nian, to whom he had been kind in his Proſperity
had not come to him, pray'd him to take Courage,
carry'd him to the Mountains of Cilicia, help'd him
to Men and Money, and put him in a Condition once
more to Difpute the Sovereignty with his Enemies
Michael's Counſels were a little ſurpriz'd at this
Turn of Affairs; ſome were for Treating with him,
and offer him a Part of the Empire, and others
were for continuing the War, rather than give bim
the leaſt hopes of Re-mounting the Throne. How,
ever, they were for ſending him Offers of Pardon for
himſelf and his Followers, and an honourable Penſion
if he would lay down his Arms.' Diogenes ſcorn'd
Refuſes a their Offers, ſaying, He had committed no Crime,
Pardon.
and needed no Pardon, and thoſe were the unjuſt Perſons
who kepi from him his Right. Cæfar fearing that Dio.
genes would make himſelf Maſter of Antioch, which
would have enabl'd him to bave continu'd the War
long while, ſent his Eldeſt Soni Andronicus with an
Army to Reduce him. The Prince paſs’d immediare
Chap. IV.
125
Michael Ducas.
1
1
lý over to Cilicia, and came upon Romanus before A. D.
he expected him, fought him, defeated him, and 1070
took the Armenian, his friend, Priſoner. Yer Dioge. He is a-
nes ſtood ſtill firm in bis Reſolutions, never to De-gain De-
fit, pretending to the Empire as long as he had any feared.
Friends to Joyn with him. His Forces were con-
quer'd, but bis Courage was Invincible. He endea-
vour'd to Debauch ſome of Andronicus's Troops, in
which he was as unſucceſsful as in his Battles; and
his own Men deſpairing of defending themſelves 2-
gainſt the whole Strength of the Empire, deliver'd
up the City of Adana, to which Diogenes retird, and
the poor Emperor in it. He was preſently ſtripd of Taken.
his Imperial Ornaments, cloath'd in Black, mounted
on a Mule, and brought in this melancholy Poſtare
to Andronicus, who piry d bis Misfortune, took him
by the Hand, carry'd him to his Tent, and made him
Sit down at his own Table. But it ſeems his Father,
and Michael the Emperor his Couſin were not ſo kind
to the Unfortunate Romanus. They ſent an Officer
to ſee his Eyes put out, which Andronicus endea-
vour'd to prevent. He wrote to the Emperor, and
to his father, not to ſuffer fucb a cruel Act to be
done, threatning them with God's Vengeance if they
did." In the mean time, the Officer, who was com
manded to fee the Imperial Warrant executed, order'd
his Eyes to be pluck'd out, after which he was ſhut And Blind-
up in a Monaſtery of his own Founding in the Idand
of Prota, where he dy'd in a few Weeks. 'Tis faid,
His Death,
bis Enemies were ſo Cruel, that they ſuffer'd the
Wounds they made, when they pluck'd our his Eyes,
to Patrifie, and that Worms bred out of the Corrup-
tion in the Cavities, an obſcene Idea too foul for Hu-
mane Imagination. Bryennius, who liv'd and wrote
about this Time, makes no mention of any ſuch bar-
barous Uſage, and we have therefore given the leſs
Credit to the Latin Monks, who are glad of an Op-
portunity to blacken the Greek Chriſtians. He Reign'd
about three Years, reckoning from the Time of his
Coronation to that of his Captivity, and was a
Prince endow'd with many Excellent Qualities. Heena Chr-
was Brave to a Fault, Generous, Conftant, Patient rader.
in Adverliry, bur apt to be exalted in Proſperity :
His
ed.
1 26
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
1
.
A. D. His Depoſition was a Loſs to the Empire, and the
1070. Romans ſoon found the want of him when Ducas his
Succeffor took the Adminiſtration of Affairs on him-
ſelf.
While the Empreſs Eudoxia had the Charge of the
Government, the frown'd upon Ifaac and Alexius Com-
neni, who were the Sons of Foon Comnenus, Brother
to the Emperor Iſaac. She forbad them the Court,
and afterwards Banith'd them to the Princes-Iſand.
The Emperor Michael recall'd them from Baniſhment,
and Marry'd the eldeſt of the two Brothers, Ifaac, to
Irene, Daughter of the Prince of the Alans, and Cou-
fin to Mary, Daughter to the King of Iberia, whom
he had Marry'd. He thought to engage the two Bro-
thers firmly in his Intereſts by this Alliance, nor fore-
ſeeing how by advancing the Houſe of Comneni, he
prejudic'd that of Ducas his own. Fokn Ducas his
Unkle, perceiving that the Emperor his Nephew
was a weak Prince, and very unfit for Government,
apply'd himſelf the more induſtriouſly to the Miniſtry,
and by his Recommendation prevail'd with him to
take Nicephorus the Eunuch into the Management of
Poſt-Ma• the Publick Affairs. He was to that end made Logo-
fter Gene-thete of the Drome, an Office of great Importance and
ul.
Honour in the Greek Empire. He was a very ſubtil
Eloquent Perſon, and withal Falſe and Troubleſome:
He foon infinuated himſelf into ſo grear a ſhare of
Michael's Affections, that he govern'd him as he
pleas'd, and ungratefully undermin'd Cæfar in the Ad-
miniſtration of the Government, Ducas ſaw Nicephoto
rus was a Traytor to him, that his Nephew flighted
and deſpis’d bim, which Uſage be could neither bear
nor prevent, ſo he deſir'd leave to retire to his Houſe
in Bithynia, and the Emperor readily gave him his
Permiſſion, tho' he flatter'd himſelf, that rather than
part with him, he would have abandon'd his new
Favourite.
Axan, Sultan of the Turks, as well reſenting the
barbarous Treatment his Friend and Ally Romanus
met with, as to improve the opportunity of a weak
Government in the Empire, order'd his Troops to in-
vade the Roman Territories, to rob and ſpoil the Eaſt-
ern Provinces. At the ſame time the Scythians made
Incurkan
Chap. IV.
127
Michael Ducas.
A
1
+
he are
Incurſions in the Weſtern, ravaging Macedonia and A. D.
Thrace, and carrying off a vaſt Booty, together with 1070.
a great number of Caprives. To make head againſt
the Turks, Michael gave the Office of Grand Domeſtick Captain.
in the Eaſt to Iſaac Comnenus, and order'd him to pur General
himiſelf at the bead of his Troops, which he recruited
with new Levies. Ifaac fought the Infidels, was de-
feated and taken Priſoner. His Brother Alexius,
who was in the Fight, eſcap'd to Gabadonia, on the
Frontiers of Galatia; and Iſaac was in a little while
fer at Liberty by the Turks, on Payment of a large
Ranſome.
During theſe Tranſactions in Aſia, Ruſelius a French
Man, wbo comanded the French and Italian Merce-
naries in the Roman Emperor's Pay, revolted. He
was born in the Celtique Gaul, and had enrich'd him-
ielf in the Eaſtern Wars. By his Bounty and mild
Behaviour to his Soldiers, he had got a great body of
Men of ail Nations at his Command ; and obſerving
that the Turks were too hard for the Romans,
tempted to turn their Weakneſs to his own Advantage,
and affum'd the Sovereign Power over thoſe whom he
came to affift, and whoſe Pay he had receiv'd. He Ruſelitis
overran the Country lying between Bithynia and Ly.
Revolts.
caonia, took Cities, laid Taxes on the Inhabitants,
and levy'd Contributions in the Emperor's Dominions.
In this Extremity of Affairs, Cæfar return'd from Afia
and re-aſſum'd the Adminiſtration. Nicephorus the
Eunuch was very uneaſy at his Return, and perſuad-
ed Michael to give him the Command of the Army,
which was to act againſt Ruſelius. Cæfar was very un-
willing to accept of ir: However, that he might not be
thought to refuſe it out of Fear, he undertook the
Expedition, croſs'd the Euxine and the Mountains of
Bithynia, and found Ruſelius prepar'd to receive him,
1072
near the Bridge of Zompa on the River Sangarus.
The two Armies came to an Engagement; and Cefar
had reduc'd the Rebel, had nor ſome of his Country-
men (the French) who ſerv'd under Ducas, deferred to
Ruſelius in the Action, Nicephorus Botoniares, who come
manded the Rear Guard, feeing the French had joyn'd
the Enemy, either out of Treachery or Caution,
quitted the Field. The Romans diſcourag'd at the
Dcfor
1
1
128
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
A. D. Deſertion and Retreat of their Companions were over-
1072. thrown. Cæfar fighting bravely among the thickelt
Routs the of the Enemy was taken Priſoner. His Son Androni.
Romans.
cus ſeeing his father in the Hands of the Rebels,
fought like a Man deſperate to reſcue him, and was
himſelf forc'd to yield to the numbers of the Ene.
my chat ſurrounded him and attack'd him on all
fides.
Ruſelius after this Victory took in all the Towns
on the Sangarus, and bent all his Thoughts to ren-
der himſelf Maſter of the Empire. He treated
Cæfar and his Son with extraordinary Civility, and
permitted them both to go to Conſtantinople to cure
their Wounds, leaving Andronicus's two Sons (Infants
both) with him in Hoſtage for their ſurrendring them.
ſelves when requir'd to do it. To revenge this Af-
front, Conſtantine, Cæſar's ſecond Son, a Prince of
great Valour and Virtue, was order'd to gather to-
gether the Remainders of the Roman Army, to raiſe
freſh Troops and carry on the War againſt Rufelius;
buc before he could get his Equipage ready, he fell
fick and dy'd, which was a new and a terrible Affi-
ction to Cæfar, who was proclaim'd Emperor in the
Proclaims Eaft by the Rebels. Ruſelius conſidering that the Forces
John Du- of the Empire would in time be too many for him,
cas Empe-
pretended a mighty Friendſhip for Ducas; whereas bis
yor.
true Reaſon for proclaiming him Auguftus, was, to
draw in ſeveral Cities where Cæfar was belov'd to his
Party. Ducas at firſt diſown'd and diſapprov'd of his
Enterprize ; but in the end he conſented to it, joyn'd
heartily in it, and engag'd moſt of the People of Qua-
lity at Conſtantinople in his Intereſt. Michael and
Nicephorus finding Cæſar's Intereſt to increaſe, thar
he and his Son were gone over to Aſia, and appear'd
openly with the Rebel Ruſelius, were afraid of theCon-
fequences of it, and ſaw no way ſo likely to prevent
it, as to call in the Turks to their Affiſtance. To this
end they enter'd into a Treaty with Artuch, one of
the Mahomet an Princes in Aſia, and hir'd his Troops.
The Barbarian march'd at the Head of a numerous
Ariny againſt Cefar and his Confederate, wbom he
found poſted on an Eminence near the Fort of Meta-
bolus on Ceſar's Lands in Bithynia, which they did
.
nor
1
Chap. IV.
129
Michael Ducas.
}
+
not think fit to defend, but deſcended into the Plain, A. D.
and fortify'd themſelves in their Camp, behind a Ri 1072.
ver, which guarded the Paſs to the Mountains, Ar-
tuch advanc'd againſt them, and attack'd them on
three ſides of their Camp. Cæfar and Rufclius made a
Ducas and
vigorous Reſiſtance; bur being encompaſs'd by their Ruſelius
Enemies, they were routed, and moſt of their Men defeated by
killd or taken. Among the reſt Cæfar and the Gaul the Turks.
fell into the Hands of the Turk, who let the latter go
for a Sum of Money, and at the Emperor's Requeſt
deliver'd up Ducas for a conſiderable Ranſome. Ce
Се.
far fearing to loſe his Eyes or his Head, threw him-
felt into the Monaſtery of Traconeſus, was Shorn and
took the Habit of a Monk.
1073:
As ſoon as Ruſelius was free again, he rally'd hisMer-
cenaries, ſubdu'd fome Places lying on the Euxine,
and began a new War. He ſtraighten'd the Cities of
Amalia and Neo-Cæfarea, obliging the open Country
to pay Contribucions, Michael jent Nicephorus Pal.co-
logus to raiſe Men in the Kingdom of the Alans. He Ruſelius
levy'd 6000 and tranſported them into Afia;, but theſe raiſes &
Mercenaries for want of their pay deſerted. The new Army.
Emperor hearing of Paleologus's ill Succeſs, by the Ade
vice of Nicephorus the Eunuch, employ'd Alexius
Comnenus, Brother of Ifaac in Afia, who, without
either Men or Money, haften'd to Amalia, where
he waited till he receiv'd Supplies of both. And by
his prudent Negotiations with the chief Inhabitants of
the Cities that had ſubmitted to Ruſelius, he gaind them
to return to their Obedience to the Emperor, and to
deny the Payment of any Tribute or Contributions to
the Rebel. Who finding himſelf depriy'd of his uſus
al Supplies from theſe Cities, apply'd co Tout ach, Ge-
neral of the Sultan of Perſia. He want in Perſon to
treat with him, and had almoſt prevail'd with him to
aſlift him. Alexius being inforin'd of his Proceed-
ings, fent Ambaſſadors to the ſame Toutach with rich
Preſents, repreſenting to him the ancient Friendhip
between the Perſians and the Romans, and deliring
him to fend him a truſty Meſſenger to whom he might
reveal a Secrer of Importance. Toutach very weil
pleas'd with Alexius's Preſents, fent bim a Perſon
in whoſe Secrecy he might confide, whom Alexius
gain'd
130
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV
A. D. gain'd by his Gifts and the ſweetneſs of his Temper,
1073. when he had work'd upon him that way, he told
him his Mind, thus, The Emperor and the Sultan your
Maſter are now Friends." Ruſelius is their Common Ene-
my: He ravages at this time the Emperor's Territories;
at another, he will do the ſame by the Sultan's. Now he
fees the Sultan at the head of a powerful Army, he courts
his Friendſhip, for fear he mould fide with the Romans.
When that Fear is over, he will declare himſelf openly
bis Enemy. If the Sultan will ſeize him, and deliver
him to me, 'owill be very much for his Advantage. I
will give bim what Sum of Money he pleaſe, and will
be a great obligation upon my Master. The Meſſen-
ger liking Alexius's Diſcourſe, promis'd to engage his
Maſter to do what he would have bim, which he per-
form’d. For when Ruſelius came again to viſit Toutach,
he ſeiz'd him and ſent him to Alexius, who gave him
Hoftages for the Payment of the Money agreed on be-
tween them, and got it out of the Citizens of Amalia,
by his proving to them what a Benefit it was to 'em
to be freed from Ruſelius's Tyranny,and how dangerous
it might be to have Toutach ftay in their Neighbour-
hood till the Money was paid. He then ſubdu'd the
French and Italian Mutineers, and the Places they
were poffeſs’d of, part by Force, and part by Policy,
after which he return'd to Conftantinople, carrying
Suppreſs’d Rifelius with him in Chains. On his Arrival there, the
big Alexius Emperor embrac'd Alexius, ſaying, Welcome thou,
Comne- pho, next to God, art the Support of my Empire. Ruſelius
was fhut up in a cloſe Priſon; and ſome Authors
write, his Eyes were put out. Alexius's Brother lo
Saac was made Governor of Antioch; and when he
arriv'd at his Government he enter'd upon Action a-
gainſt the Turks, fought them and was overthrown,
himſelf taken Priſoner, and Conftantine Diogenes, the
Son of Romanus, Nain. The Citizens of Antioch pro-
curd the Liberty of their Governor, by paying down
20000 Crowns of Gold for his Ranroine.
We muſt now look into the Affiirs of the Weſt,
where Michael is as much diſturbid by his own Sub-
jects, as by Foreigners and Infidels in the Eaſt. Folyn
Pryennius, Brother !o Nicephorus, whom we have
mention'd, and Baſilacius, the Son of Florus, cnter'd
nus.
inco
!
Chap. IV.
131
Michael Ducas.
into a Conſpiracy againſt the Emperor ; and Fofeph A. D.
Tarconiat, who was ſent againſt them, joyn'd with 1072.
them. Nicephorus was then in Bulgaria, where he
had carry'd on a fortunate War, and his Brother by
Letters endeavour'd ro perſuade him to joyn in the
Revolt. The Emperor's Government was become o-
dious by his Avarice, of which he was
ſo fcandaloufy The Empe-
guilty, that he leſſend the Meaſure of the Publick ror's Ava-
Corn this Year, at which time the City of Conftanti-rice.
nople was ſorely afflicted with Famine. His extraor-
dinary Favour to Nicephorus the Eunuch diſguſted the
Perſons of Quality, and Coverouſneſs never fails to
gain the Hatred of the People, who gave the Emperor
the Sirname of Parapinaces, for his chearing them of
their Meaſure. Bryennius and Baſilacius could not
have had a better Opportunity to Rebel chan now,
when the whole Empire were diſaffected to their so-
vereign for his Male- Adminiſtration. But neither of
them were Men of Intereſt enough to ſucceed in their
Uſurpation; for which reaſon they would fain have
drawn in Nicephorus Bryenniùs, who was too much
diſpos’d to Uſurp, having been lately affronted by the
Emperor, who ſent for him to Court to create him
Cæfar, and when he came there baulk'd him, which
pur him very much out of Humour: However he
reliſted their Temptations for ſome time with a great
deal of Modeſty and Self-denyal. And if we may
believe his Grandſon, the Soldiers forc'd him to al-
ſume the Imperial Title and Ornaments. Tr.zjanople
receiv'd him as Emperor; the fame did Adrianople, Nic:
and ſeveral other Towns in Thrace. Bafilacius was Bryenn.
bought off by Michael with the Government of Illyria;
and he was the more willing to defere his Friend John Ch.p. 13.
Bryennius, becauſe he could have no hopes of arrain- Crvenuius
ing any ſhare of the Sovereignty, il Nicephorus fuc-uftirps.
ceeded in his Rebellion.
From Adrianople, Bryennius fent Flot his Brother,
General of his Forces, to Conftantinople with a Part of
his Army, which conſiſted of Scyrhi.175, Bulgari 11.sed
Romans. Fobon had Inſtructions to treat wiih lomme
great Officers, who were Nicephorus Friends, to co-
gage thein in bis Party, and not to offend the Citie
zens by any Acts of Hotility in the Suburbs. As
K2
foon
132
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
.
A. D. ſoon as he appear’d the Conſtantinopolitans diſcover'd
1073. their Hatred to Michael, and their Affection to Nice
phorus ; which, however, was of fort Duration.
John encamp'd over againſt the Palace of Blacherne,
where there is a Citadel, which he feiz'd; ſome of the
Soldiers paffing over the Bridge to ſeek for Proviſi-
ons, and finding none, the Citizens having lock'd up
all within the City, they were ſo enrag'd, that they
ſet fire to the Suburbs. John ſent People preſently to
put out the Fire, but they came too late ; the Subúrbs
were conſum'd, and Bryennius's Intereft loft in a few
Minutes.
Conſtantine, the Emperor's Brother, and Alexius
Comnenus had the Charge of the Defence of the City.
For want of Soldiers they arm'd their Domeſticks,
and kept ſuch ſtrict Watch, that Fohn could not find
any Opportunity to convey his Letters to his Friends
within, or to gain Admitrance; ſo ſeeing it was to
no Purpoſe to waſte his time before the Walls, he re-
tir'd to Adrianople.
Nicephorus Botaniates, who commanded the Empe-
ror's Forces in the Eaſt, and had a long time medi-
tated a Revolt, hearing that the Weſt was in Confu-
Nicepho- qon by the Uſurpation of Bryennius, threw off his O-
Tuis Bota-
bedience to his Sovereign, and ſet up for himſelf.
Biates
Wirh him joyr'd Chryſoſculus, a Turkiſh Prince, and
ujurps.
a Friend to the Romans whom we have had occaſi-
on to mention already in this Hiſtory. They took
ſeveral Cities; and having ſubdu'd all Phrygia, they
enter'd Bithynia. Emilian, Biſhop of Antioch, de-
clar'd for Botaniates; and a great Part of the Senate
and Clergy of Conſtantinople waited only for an Op-
portunity to do the ſame with Effect and Safety. The
Eunuch's Miniſtry was inſupportable: He was Haugh:
zy. Cruel and Coverous; and the Number of the Dilo
affected was almoſt as great as that of the Romans,
Bataniates fent his Agents to Conſtantinople, to offer
the principal Courtiers and Citizens Places and Pen(1-
ons, if they would joyn with him, which they engag'd
to do.
Michael and his Favourite not miſtruſting that they
had ſo many private and domeſtick Enemies, provided
only to defend themſelves againſt thoſe that declar'd
openly
Chap. IV.
133
Michael Ducas.
>
openly to be ſo. They diſpatch'd away Ambaſſadors to A. D.
Solyman the Son of Cultu Mofes, Sultan of the Turks, to 1073.
implore his Affiſtance, which he agreed to give them,
on Payment of a vaſt Sum of Money. But Botaniates
turn'd out of the great Roads, and by hafty Marches
reach'd the City of Nice, before the Turks eould come
up to him. The News of his being receiv'd into Nice
with great Joy coming to Conftantinople, his Friends af-
ſeinbl'd in the Church of Sancta Sophia, and there all
of them, as well Clergy as Laity, reſolv'd to open the
Priſon-Doors to arm their Domeſticks, and oblige thoſe
that had not engag'd with them to do it. Emylian, the
Patriarch of Antioch, was the Head of the Faction, and
he ſent a Letter to Cæſar Ducas from Botaniates, ſeal'd
with the Golden Bull
, as the Emperors always ſeal'd
their Letters, offering him the higheit Dignities in the
Empire, under him, if he would favour his Deſign.
Gejar anſwer'd without heſitating, He would never depart
from the Intereſts of the Emperor his Nephew. He in-
form'd Michael of what was in Agiration againſt him,
and Alexius offer'd to ſeize the chief Conſpirators
, but
the Emperor would not conſent to it, for fear of a Tu-
mult, ſaying, He had a long while thought of reſigning the
Michael
Sovereign Authority; and now ſince Providence bad fo 07- abdicares
der’d it without him, which he ſaould have done with his own tke Empire.
Confent, he ſubmitted to its Decrees, and bad them put his
Brother Conſtantine in his place. Alexius defir'd him
to write down what he had ſaid, which he did imme-
diately, and retir'd to the Church of Blacherna. Come
ſtantine refus'd to accept of the Sovereignty, believing,
as he pretended, He ſhould live very happy under Bota-
niares, and he demanded leave to paſs the Streight to
wait upon him, which he did in Company of Alexius
Comnenus, and was favourably receiv'd by the Uſurper,
who haſten'd to Conſtantinopie, where the Multitude,
ever fond of a Reſolution, the greateſt Part of thein
thinking themſelves Miſerable, and the Miſerable al-
ways hoping to get by a Change, welcom'd him with 1078.
Shouts, and both Courtiers, Senate and Citizens own'd
him their Sovereign.
Tunis
Michacl the late Emperor was ſhorn for a Monk ac mtorka drit
his own Requeſt; and Thomas, Patriarch of Conſtanti-is mide
sople, gave him Orders, and Conſecrated him Arch-Biſh-p of
3
bihop Epheſus.
K
134
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
!
A. D. biſhop of Epheſus, April 3d. Indeed a Miter was fitter
1078. for him than a Crown. He reign'd about fix Years
and fix Months; and while he was Emperor, was
a great Encourager of Learned Men, and a Pro-
moter of Learning, the only good thing he delighted
in.
Nicephorus Botaniates.
2
THO’ this Prince was old when he came to the
Empire, yet he began his Reign with an Act that
could not be excus'd in a young Man ; he Marry'd
Mary, the Emperor Michael's Wife, her Husband being
ftill living, and he himſelf having a Wife alive. 'Tis
ſaid, that Cæfar Ducas advis'd him to it, and aſſiſted at
the Nuptials, and that Michael the late Emperor was
alſo preſent. The Prieſt that was to Marry them, was
fearful to give his Benediction to what he call'd Adul-
tery, and hid himſelf in the Church, which Cæfar un-
derſtanding, he beckon'd to his Nephew, who was at
ſome diſtance from him, to call a Prieſt, who was not
fo fcrupulous: And we are told, that Michael know-
ing what he meant by the Sign, went and brought a
Prieſt, who did the Buſineſs without making any He-
fitation. Botaniates having made himſelf Mafter of
the Empire, affected to gain the Love of his Subjects
by his Liberality. His Competitor Bryennius being na-
turally Liberal, what he gave, he did with a good
Grace and to good Purpoſe; whereas Rotaniates, by
Nature inclin'd to Avarice, was Aukard, Extravagant
and Unreaſonable in his Bounty: He waſted the pub-
lick Treaſures on. Perſons who did not deſerve Re-
wards; and inſtead of gaining the Affections of the
People, he became Ridiculous and Contemptible.
He ſaw his Error when he began to want Money,
and was put to poo: Shifts to raiſe it for tbe occaſions
of his Government He alter'd the Coin, and leffen'd
the Sallaries of his Officers; an inviduous piece of Po-
licy, which often does nore Harm to the Prince's Inte-
reit, thar it does good to his Treaſury. The Provinces
in Afia were either conquer'd by the Turks, or kept ſo
poor
Chap. IV. Nicephorus Botaniates135
.
.
1
f
:
poor by the continual Incoads of the Infidels, that they A. D.
were rather a Charge than an Advantage to the Em- 1073. '
pire, and her Revenues in Europe had been moſt of
them wafted or anticipated in former Reigns. In this
ill Pofture of Affairs Botaniates came to the Govern.
ment, and ſoon made it worſe by his ill-tim'd Genero-
fity.
Bryennius in the mean while maintain'd his Uſurpa-
tion in the Weſt. Moſt of the chief Cities of Maceo
donia and Thrace had acknowledg'd him for their Sove.
reign, and Botaniates was very uneaſy at the growth of
his Power. Bryennius gather'd all his Forces together
out of the Provinces that had ſubmitted to him, and
advanc'd towards Conftantinople. Botaniates's Dornini. .
on was not yet well ſerrled, and this new Competitor
gave him much more Diſquiet than his lawful Prince
had done. He inade Alexius Comnenus General of his
Forces; and to encourage him, had him adopted by
the Empreſs Mary his wife, and defir'd the Adilance
of Solyman, the Sultan of the Turks in Perfia, who ſebe
him 2000 Men, which with a few Immortals (a Band of
Soldiers ſo call d by the Greeks) fome French Merce.
naries, and a ſmall Number of Romans made up Alexi- Alexius
us's Ariny, Botaniates and his friends depending more
Comne-
-.on the Valour and Prudence of their General than the
nus fint a
Strength of his Army: However, he was advisd to
gunit Bry
try whether Matters could be accommodated by Treacy,
to ſave the Effuſion of Chriſtian Blood, co which bo
conſented ; and Ambaſſadors were diſpatch'd away to
Bryennius, whom they found at Theodoropolis, with Ir.-
ſtructions to offer him the Dignity of Colar, and the
Succeſſion to the Empire after Botaniates's Death.
Bryennius accepred of the Conditions offer'd ro himſelf:
but he demanded ſuch Terms for his Officers as were
not in the Emperor's Power to grant. Upon this the
Treaty bruke off, and Alexius was order'd to meet
him and give him Barcie. The Turkiſh Auxiliaries had
not yet joynd the Romans, but were in a few Hours
March of them. And Alexius hearing the Enemy
was in a full March againſt him, encamp'd near Celura,
a Paſs which defended the City of Conſtantinop!e. Bryon-
nius ſeeing he muſt force his way, if he in:ended to prria
ceed, put his Army in order of Battle, and relulv'd tv a:-
K 4
tachi
nplus.
.
}
136
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
.
A. D. tack Alexius. His Brother Fobn had the Command of
1078. the Right Wing, compos'd of 5000 Italians, Theſali-
ans and Auxiliaries of other Nations. The Left Wing
was commanded by Tarconiot, and conſiſted of 3000
Macedonians. Himſelf led the main Body, compos'd
of his Guards, the Flower of the Thracian and Mace-
Idonian Infantry, and the Theſalian Horle. The Scythi-
an Auxiliaries were poſted out of the Body of the Ar-
my, beyond the Left Wing, and were order'd to fall
on the Imperialiſts in the Rear, when their Right was
engag'd with Tarconiot's. Alexius having notice by his
Spies, that the Rebels were on their March to attack
him, conceal'd his Troops as well as he could in a Bot-
tom, and went up a Hill himſelf to take a view of the
Enemy. When he conſider'd their Numbers, he very
wiſely reſolv'd with himſelf not to let his Men ſee them,
that they might not be diſhearten'd. This was not
what perplex'd him moit, he had Orders nor to fight
till the Turks were come up, and he could not retreat
without expoſing his Rear : He therefore poſted his
Men in narrow cloſe Ways, where they could not fee
much nor be ſeen, and waited the Approach of the
Rebels, reſolving to make the beſt of his Defence if
they charg'd him, as it appear'd by their Countenance
they intended to do.
As foon as Bryennius's Army deſcended into the Val.
leys, Alexius pur himſelf at the Head of the Immortals
and prepar'd to receive them. The Imperialiſts pro-
voká to ſee themſelves defy'd by the Rebels, could
nor ſtay till they were attack'd, but charg’d them firſt
Fizkis the
with ſo much Vigour, that they cut in Pieces Part of
Djurper. the Enemy's Right Wing, and forc'd the reſt to give
Ground. Fohn Bryennius ſeeing his Men began to fly,
drew his Sword, kill'd the Grit of ibe Immortals that
preſented himſelf before him, led his Men to the
Charge, and overpowering the Imperialiſts, broke that
famous Legion, who vainly affum d ro glorious a Title.
Alexius did all that a General or Soldier could do, to
rally his flying Forces and recover the Advantage they
had lot, but his Prayers and his Example were to no
purpoſe; the Immortals fled before their Enemies, and
the Scythians at the ſame time pur the Romans in the
routed. Right Wing into Diſorder : Thus the Battle was like
Chap. IV. Nicephorus Botaniates.
137
to be loſt every where; thoſe that fled bred a Confuſion A. D.
in thoſe that ſtood, and the Rour was almoſt general, 1078.
when Alexius, by good Fortune, took Bryennius's
Eſquire, or Gentleman of the Horſe, with his Maſter's
Horſe of Stare, adorn'd with the Imperial Trappings
and Ornaments, usd by the Emperors in thoſe Days:
He alſo ſeiz'd the Fellows that carry'd the Axes be.
fore him, and thew'd them to his Soldiers, Publifing e Day by
by a Herald, that Bryennius was dead, which encou- his Policy
.
rag'd his Men, whom he rally'd, and renew'd the Fight.
He fell firſt upon the Scythians, who were in Diſorder
after their Victory, minding the Plunder of the Field
more than the Purſuit of the Vanquiſh’d, or their own
Safety. Theſe he put to flight in their Turn, and at
the Inſtant the Turks arriv'd at the place of Battle, fell
on the Rebels with freſh Courage, which chang'd the
Fortune of the Day: Bryennius.defended himſelf with
extraordinary Bravery ; he new three or four Turks
with his own Hand that came to aſſault him, but he
was born down by Number, and tho his Brocher and
bis Son fought like Men deſperate to reſcue him, he Bryennius
was taken Priſoner, and carry'd to Alexius, who treat is taken.
ed him as his Valour and Merit deſerv'd. After Bry-
ennius was in the Hands of the Imperiali'ts, the Rebels
iled every where, and John Bryennius, with bis Ne.
phew, the Son of Nicephorus, made their Eſcape to A-
drianople, where he ſtay'd till he had an opportunity to
give Botaniates new Trouble.
We have already mention'd the Rebellion of one Ba.
filacius in Aſia, and of another in Europe, whether
the fame Man was the Author of both there Rebel-
lions, or they were two Perſons of the ſame Name we
cannot determine. Michael Ducas, to make the laſt Bau
filacius, if they were not both the ſame Perſon, his
Friend, had given him the Government of Illyria, and
the City of Duras its Capital, which Nicephorus Bry-
ennius then enjoy'd. Baſilacius accepted of the Ho-Bailacius
nours beſtow'd on him by thai Emperor, and deferred Virps:
Fohannes Bryennius, the Author of Nicephorus's Trea-
{on believing the latters Intereſt and Character, would
have the Preference of his: But now Briennius was
ſuppreſs'd, he affum'd the Iinperial Power in his Pro-
vince, ſeiz'd Theſſalonica, and became as formidable
1
138
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
A. D. to Botaniates, as Nicephorus was before. He was a
8078. Haughty Ambitious Man, of a Gygantick Make, his
Voice ſo Loud, that he might be heard by a whole
Army. He had ſcrap'd up a great deal of Treaſure,
and his Name was Terrible to all his Enemies. The
News of his ſecond or third Revolt came to Conſtan-
tinople, a few Days after Botaniates heard of Bryen-
nius's Defeat, and mitigated his Joy for the late Vi.
ctory.
Alexius ſent Bryennius's Imperial Enfigns to Court,
and was on his March towards the City when he mer
Borilus, Botaniates's Favourite, a Scythian by Birth, and
being a Foreigner, for that Reaſon and others hared
by the Romans. Borilus came to him to receive his
Priſoner Bryennius, whom be carry'd to Philopation,
and there put out his Eyes. The Scythian brought an
Order from the Emperor to Alexius, to go to Adria
nople, and carry a General Pardon to Bxyennius's Fol-
lowers, who had eſcap'd to that City, after which he
was to oppoſe Bafilacius. Alexius did not approve
of this Order, he expected other Rewards for his late
Service, and thought the ſubduing a Rebel of far leſs
Merit than Bryennius might have been, affign'd to
a Commander of leſs Merit than himſelf: However,
he did not think fit at that Time to Diſpute the Em-
peror's Pleaſure. Bryennius's Officers, and the Heads
of his Faction accepted of the General Pardon, and
went to Conftantinople; and Bryennius himſelf, Blind
as he was, by the Emperor's Order came to Court, had
his Eftare reftord to him, and was preſented with many
rich Gifts, a ſmall Satisfaction to a Man, that had loſt
an Empire and his Eyes.
Alexius having Information that Bafilacius was with
an Army in the Neighbourhood of Theſſalonica ,
croft part of Macedonia, paſt the River Strymon, and
arriv'd at a little Ciry near the River Vardarus, which
Alexius
ran formerly in another Channel. About a quarter of
a Mile off, between theſe two Rivers he Encamp'd,
and order'd his Men to Refreſh themſelves, for that
chey muſt Watch all Night, or Sleep on their Arms.
He imagin'd Baſilacius would Attack bis Camp in the
Night, a Deſerter having aſſur'd him that he would
deliver Alexius to him aſleep, if he would come to his
Tent;
opposes him
Chap. IV. Nicephorus Botaniates.
139
Tent; and Comnenus had Intelligence of the Treaſon. A.D.
Bafilacius accordingly with a ſelect Party of his Army 1078.
approach'd towards Alexius's Camp, who having No-
tice of it by his Out-Guards, and that the Ulurper
led the Van, march'd out of it, and left only
a Monk, whom he lov'd, in his Tent, which he order'd
to be very well illuminated. He was ſcarce gone, be-
fore Baſilacius enter'd his Camp, and came up to his
Tent, ſearch'd it, but the Stammerer, as he callid him,
was gone, upon which moſt of his Soldiers fell to Plun.
dering. Alexius expected they would do fo ; and
when they were moſt in Diſorder, return’d to his
Camp, and cut 'em to pieces with little Loſs. Com-
nenus knowing Bafilacius was amongſt them, fought
him, and miſtaking a Commander, Tall and Bulky
like the Uſurper, for him, himſelf attack'd him, and
cut off his Right Hand. Bafilacius, together with a
few of his Soldiers, got off, and retird to the main
Body of their Army. Early the next Morning the Re-
bels'appear'd in order of Battle, and Manuel the U.
fùrper's Brother, getting upon an Eminence, cry'd cut to
his Companions, This is the Day of Bafilacius's Vittory.
Bafilius à Roman, who had ſervd under Bryennius, and
now follow'd Alexius, mounted the ſame Eininence,
fought him with a Club, bear him off his Horſe, took
him and drew him along to his General; which Sight
ſc diſhearten'd the Rebels and encourag'd the Imperia. Defeats
lifts, that the latter obtain'd an eaſy Victory. Bafila-bim.
cius fled to Theſalonica ; but the Garriſon hearing of
his Defeat, ſeiz'd him, and deliver'd him and his He is taken
Treaſures to Comnenus. He immediately ſent a Cou-
rier to the Emperor with the News of his Succeſſes ;
and when his Soldiers had refreſh'd themſelves at Thef-
falonica, he march'd back towards Conftantinople. By
the way he mer Meſſengers, who came from Botaniatos,
with Orders to put out Bafilacius's Eyes, which was And blind-
Executed near a Fountain in Champinum, thence call d ed.
Baſilacius's Fountain. Alexius was receiv'd at Court
with great Honour, ſuitable to his Deſerts. The Em-
peror made him ſeveral very valuable Preſents, and ho-
nour'd him with the Title and Dignity of Sebaftus, or
Cæfar,
ܪ
This
!
-
140
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV,
+
A. D.
This Rebellion was ſcarce ſuppreſs’d, before ano-
1078. ther broke out in Aſia : For the Emperor being himſelf
an Ulurper, the Generals of the Army thought they
had as much Right to the Crown as he had, and when
occaſion offer'd, Uſurp'd as he had done.
Nicepho-
Nicephorus Meliſenus, who had marry'd the Com-
rus Melir-neni's Siſter Eudoxia, and commanded a Body of Men
fenus v. in the Eaſtern Provinces, aſſum'd the Purple, callid in
furps. the Turks to his Aſſiſtance, took all the Cities of Phry.
gia and Galatia, made himſelf Maſter of Nice in Bi-
thynia, and ftruck Terror into the Hearts of the Weſt-
ern Romans. Botaniates, when he heard of his Ulur.
pation, preſently ſent for Alexius, and commanded
him to paſs over into Afia to Fight Melijenus, which
Employment Comnenus could by no Perlwaſions be pre-
Alexius vaild with to accept. He was apprehenſive of the
refuſes to Cenſures that would be paſs'd upon him; if he was
Fight a Unfortunate, he would be thought to have betray'd his
gainſt bim. Maſter in favour of his Brother-in-Law, tho' we que-
ſtion much whether he had nor other Reaſons for it,
and might not fear to loſe the Glory he had acquir’d.
The Turkiſh Armies being Numerous, and fuſh'd with
Succeſs, or perhaps there might be ſomething in what
he ſuggeſted would be laid to his Charge, that he did
not wiſh Ill to his Brother-in-Law's Uſurpation. Be
it as it will, he refus'd the Command which was be-
ftow'd on an Eunuch, whoſe Ignorance in Military
Affairs would have been the Deſtruction of the Army,
had not George Palæologus drawn them off without Loſs,
when he through his Obſtinacy had brought them
into Danger of being all Cut off: By this means Meliſ,
ſenus held while he had got during the Reign of Botani.
ates, which is now drawing to an end.
We have mention'd before, that the Emperor was go-
vern'd by Borilus the Scythian, who had ſent for his
Brother Germanus to ſhare the Honours, and the Troux
ble of his good Fortune. Nicephorus was Old, and
unfir for the Tails that attend the Adminiſtration of
Srate Affairs, the Care of which he left to his two Scy-
thian Ministers. Borilus had Ambition enough to think
of Succeeding him in the Throne himſelf, but he had
more Reaſon than to think that the Romans would eveč
ſuffer the Crown to be worn by a Barbarian, they
1
vese
Chap. IV. Nitephorus Botaniates.
147
his succes
were not reduc'd low enough for that yer. The Scy. A. D.
thian had no way to preſerve his Authority, if the 1078
Emperor ſhould Die, but by obliging him to Deſign a
Succeffor. Borilus and Germanus repreſented to him
the Danger his Family would be in from the Comneni's
their Enemies, if the Government ſhould fall into the
Hands of any one, over whom they had any Influence;
and it was too viſible that their Familiarity with the
Empreſs was at leaſt Prejudicial to the Welfare of his
Friends and Relations. The old Man, either out of
Jealouſe or Pear, had no great Kindneſs for Iſaac, or
his Benefactor Alexius Comnenus, and was ready to
take any ill Impreſſion of their Fidelity. The Two
Favourites knew his Diſpoſition, and work'd bim ac-
cordingly. They propos'd Synadenus, a Relation of Botaniates
his, Brave, Handſome, Witty and Young, a Perſon of declires
the firſt Quality, whoſe Birch might juſtifie his Kinf. Synadenus
man's Favour to Succeed him, and he declar'd him his
Succeffor.
10r.
The Empreſs allarm'd at this Deſignation, apply'd
to the Two Brothers Iſaac and Alexius Comneni, to
affiſt her with their Intereſt in ſupporting the Title of
her Son Conſtantine, whom She had by Michael Ducas,
and whom her Husband Michael intended to Marry to
the Daughter of Robert Guiſcard, Duke of Apulia and
Calabria, as we Thall have occaſion to Mew hereafter.
The Conineni were very much diſguſted with the Two Iſaac and
Scythians, who had affronted them more than once : Alexius
They were alſo apprehenſive of worſe Uſage from the Conaeni
Malice and Cruelty of their Tempers, and the Great-joy with
neſs of their Power, which made them very Afiduous the Empress
in their Court to the Empreſs; and ſhe was no leſs againſt the
fond of their Friendthip, than they were of hers.
Emperols
Ifaac had inarry'd her Couſin, and Alexius was her a-
dopted Son; ſo they were priviledg'd to demand Ac-
cels to her, as often as ſhe pleas'd, and they together
conſulted how to diſappoint the Deſigns of cheir Ene-
mies, fwaring to maintain inviolable Friendſhip be.
tween them.
The greater the Two Brothers were with the Enia
preſs
, the more were the Favourites afraid of ihom;
and finding they were too Powerful by their own Inte:
reſt, and that of their Friends to be deſtroy'd by open
means,
Y
1
142
The Roman Hiſtowy. Chap. IV.
A. D. means, they reſolv'd to do ir privately. They had
1078. counterfeited the Emperor's Hand, and intending to
feize them by Virtue of that falſe Warrant when they
came next to Court, thought to have their Eyes put out,
before it ſhould be known that any Harm was deſign'd
againt them. Alexius had Intelligence of this wicked
Plot, and informd his Friends and Relations of the
Danger his Brother and he were in ; they all declar'd,
that he ought to take Arms in his own Defence. Alex-
ius went immediately to Pacurianus, deſcended of one
of the moſt Noble Families of Armenia, and a Princi-
pal Officer in the Army, to conſult and engage him.
He told him whac bad happen'd, how the two Scythi-
ans had conſpir'd to deſtroy him, and were now actu-
ally contriving to have bis Eyes put out: He added,
if I muſt die, I would chuſe rather to die like a Man of
Honour, 'with my Sword in my Hand, than to be kill'd
like a Slave. Pacurianus heard him out, and when he
had done, he anſwer'd him ſhort, If you will be gone,
to Morrow, ils ſoon as 'tis Day, I will follow you ; if you
ft and deliberating, depend upon it, I will tell the Emperor
all I know. Alexius reply'd, Since you are ſo kind as to
concern your ſelf for my Safety, I will hearken to your Ad-
vice, and let us ſwear to be true to one another. They
Alexius agreed between themſelves that Pacurianus ſhould af
.
Gift Alexius to make himſelf Maſter of the Empire ; and
conſpires to
make bim- when Comnenus 'was Emperor, he fhould give all his
Felf Empe-
Offices to Pacurianus, which they reciprocaliy took an
Oath to perform. He then engag'd Umpertopulus, ano-
ther chief Officer of the Army, and others in the like
manner, ſwearing to reward their Services according
to their Defires, and they took a like Oath as Pacuria-
nus had done, to affiſt him with all their Might towards
bis obtaining the Sovereignty,
At Midnight they all departed to the Army, which
lay then at Chicrli in Thrace. In their way they call’d
upon George Palcologus, a Perſon of great Conliderati-
on, as well on account of bis Excellence in the Art of
War, particularly in Sieges, for which be was callid
the Towntaker, as for his High Bisch ; they were at firit
afraid to mention their Dctions to him, bis Father being
a zealous Friend of Botaniates, but believing he was
diſguited, this the Eunuch was put over hini in his
Expedia
TOY.
Chap. IV. Nicephorus Botaniates.
143
1
Expedition againſt Malifenns, and depending on his A. D.
Honour, they broke the Matter to him; he did not 1078,
preſently approve of their Undertaking, but in the end
he comply'd with their Requelt, joyn'd with them in
it, and was very ſerviceable to them. He took with
him his Money, Plare and rich Furniture, and parted
in Company of Alexius and the reſt of his Friends for
the Army: From Chiorli they wrote to John Ducas,
the Emperor Conſtantine's Brother, who liv'd then ac
Morobondus, not far from the Camp, whither they in-
vited him to come to a ſplendid Entertainment which
they provided for him. Cæfar Ducas reflected a while
with himſelf on the Danger and Advantages of the En-
ter prize, and weighing them one with the other, the
latrer prevail d'; he call'd for his Horſes, mounted,
and rode to the Army attended by his Domeſticks and
Dependants,reſolving to follow the Furtune of the Com-
neni. By the way he met with the Receiver of the Im-
perial Revenues in thoſe Parts, who was carrying the
Moneys he had receiv'd to Conftantinople. The Trea-
fure he ſeiz'd and brought to the Camp, which
made him the niore welcome to the Comneni ; and A-
lexius agreed to Marry Irene, his Grandaughter, the
Daughter of Andronicus Ducas, whom we have often
mention'd in this Chapter. Cæſar brought them alſo
a Party of Turks, whom he met near the River Eurus,
and by his Promiſes of great Rewards, prevaild upon
.
them to go with him to the Comneni: Ducas advis’d the
Conſpirators to hafton to Conſtantinople, while their
Enemies were in a Confternation, ſaying, The Success
of an Enterprize depends on its Expedition. His Advice
was approv'd of, and the Army order'd to march.
drianople ſtood firm in the Intereſts of Botaniates, our
of Harred to Alexius, for his ruining Bryennius, whom
they loy'd. Atyrus and Schilus, two Citics of Thrace,
opend their Gaces to him. Before they arrriv'd ac
Conflantinople, the Friends of the Comeni met together,
to conſult which of them hould be proclaim'd Empe-
ror; ſoine were for Iſaac, but Ceſar D1!0.3s and the
Riajority were for Alexius, the youngeit Brocher,
whoſe Agious had been more Fortunate and more
Shining, tho' fanc was arrogether as Brare and as Vir-
13.9hinc pur an end to the Debite, by
yield
ز
3
7
THOUS,
344
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. IV.
A. D. yielding up his Prerences to Alexius, and putting the
1078. Imperial Ornaments on him, which Alexius oppoſing,
Ifaac faid to him, Let me alone, God has rais'd you for
Alexius
the Preſervation of our Family. Ducas ſaluted him Em
ſaluted Em-
and the whole Army follow'd bis Example with
peror,
peror.
loud Acclamations of Joy.
While the Comneni were thus employd in their
Camp, Ambaſſadors arriv'd from Nicephorus Meliſſenus
their Brother in Law, who was come to Damalis, on
the Coaſt of the Euxine; in order to tranſport himſelf to
Conſtantinople. He requir’d to have the Eaſt allign'd
him, and the Comneni ſhould reign in the Welt: He
would alſo have his Name mention'd as Emperor in
the publick Prayers and Acclamations, and have the
Liberty of wearing a Crown and an Imperial Robe
Treats witb on theſe Conditions he promis'd them his Aliſtance.
Meliſlenus Alexius, by Advice of his Council, refus'd to grant
bim theſe Honours : However, he offer'd his Ambar-
fadors, that he ſhould have the Title of Cæfar, wear a
Coronet, and enjoy all the Honours belonging to that
Dignity; beſides which, he should have the City of
Thellalonica. The Ambaſſadors delir'd that theſe con-
ditions might be written down and ſeal'd, as the Gol-
den Parents are, which was order'd to be done, but
never was, the Secretaries pretending they could not
find the Seals; and the Ambaſſadors very ill ſatisfy'd
in the Succeſs of their Negotiation, return'd to their Ma-
fer, being told at their Departure, if Meliſenus would
come to Alexius and Confer with him, they might
preſently adjuſt their Differences to both their Con-
Alexius drawing near Conftantinople ſeiz'd Areta, a
Poſt near the City, on an Eminence, which freightend
the Place on the South-lide, and on the Eaſt. His
Army was compos'd of Men of divers Nations, and
conſequently were not to be ſo well kept in order
as if they had been all Romans; wherefore he deſir'd ro
take the City by gaining ſome of the Officers of the
Guards to deliver a Gate to him, rather than by force
of Arms. He, to this End, treated with Gilpractus,
Caprain of the Nemizians, who guarded one of the
Towers, and gain'd him by his Promiſes to admit him
at the Gate where be coinmanded. Alexius fent George
tents:
Chap. IV: Nicephorus Botániates.
145
! **
7
1
Palæologus to that Tower, to ſee whether Giltracus A, D.
was real or not in bis Agreement; if he was, he had 1078.
Inſtruction to make a Signal, upon which Alexius
would approach the Gate and enter the City. Paleolo-
945-got to the Wall juſt as 'twas Night, and after a
Tort Conference with Gilpraétus mounted the Tower,
accompany'd by the Men that he brought with him,
and gave che Signal. As ſoon as Paleologus went, the
Comneni order'd the Soldiers to their Arms, and march'd
them in good Order towards the Gare, where the Ne-
mizians were poſted. 'Twas Morning before they
thought fit to make their Entry, at which time Paleolo-
gus deſcended the Tower, open'd the Gate and admit-Tikes
red them. The Foreigners fell preſently to Plunderii
Conſtan:
Ei
they ſpar'd neither Palaces nor Churches, and commi[-
tinople.
ted all ſorts of Violence, except Murder: The Native
Romans were worſe than the Barbarians, and the Booty
they got, enrich'd them and their Families.
Botaniates, who was old and obftinate, feeing the
Comneni were in poffeffion of the City, and his AHairs
were in a deſperate Condition, Meliſſenus being alſo
Maſter of Damalis, reſolv'd to reſign the Sovereign
Power to the latter, who had not yet ſo much offinded,
him as the Comneni. To this end he difparchd away
Spatarius, a bold Fellow, and one of his most faithful
Servants to Mcliſenus, promiſing to hold out the Pa.
lace till he came, and then to admit him.
Paleologus in the mean while march'd a foce ro the
Sea-ſide, accompany'd only by his Servants and Foi-
lowers, embark'd on board a ſmall Vefſel in the Haveri,
and commanded the Rowers to carry him to the Ro-
man Fleet. When he came near it, he perceiv'd that
Spatarius was preparing to pals over with it to fino
ferch Meliſenus, himſelf being on board one of the
fineſt Ships in the whole Fleer. Pal.cologus knowing
him very well, ask'd him whence he came, anil whia
ther he was going, defiring liim to let him come
board his Ship.Spatarius reply'd, he would admid
him, if he came without his sword or Buckler: 18ick
all my Heart Paleologus anſwer'd ; fo throwing aſide
his Sword, his Buckler and his Dagger, he mounted
the ship's fide, and was very kindly receiv'd by Spin
ërius, who, it ſeems, was lajs old Acquaintance. P4-
bawlingus
on
1
i
146 The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. IV.
A. D. l.eologus loſt no time, but going up to the Ship’s Stern,
1078. he made a Speech to the Mariners, telling them, Alex-
ius was proclaim'd Emperor, and tho' Bolaniates was a
good Prince, he was certainly much better ; that 'twas in
vain for them to reiſt, the City and the Army had ac-
knowledg’d him for their Sovereign, and their Oppoſition
would only involve their Country in nepp Troubles. He
advis'd them to joyn heartily with the Soldiers and Citi-
zens, to ſide with the Emperor, and to get ſo that he might
believe he was indebted to them for his Victory. The
Seamen were perſuaded by his Diſcourſe to do as he
would have thein. Spatarius, however, ſhew'd his
dilike of their Proceedings, till Paleologus threaten'd
is have him ty'd down to the Ship's bottom, or thrown
into the Sea, and proclaim'd Alexius Emperor : The
Mariners anſwer'd with loud Acclamations, and Spata-
ritis, for oppoſing, was put in Chains. Palæologus lail'd
to the Citadela and proclaim'd Alexius over againſt it
with more Pomp and Shouts than before ; To prevent
Meliſſenus's Arrival, an Embargo was laid on all Ships
in the Port. Nicephorus, Paleologus's Father ſtood fill
firm to Bataniates : He perceiv'd the Commineni's Soldiers
were ſcatter'd up and down the City, pillaging in a diſ-
orderly manner, and ask'd leave of him to charge them
with a Party of Engliſh Soldiers, whom the Emperor
Repr for his Guards.
Botaniates deſpairing to recover
his Authority by Arins would not permit it; He defir'd
him only to go to the Comneni, and in his Name to offer
to adopt Alexius, to give his Soldiers the Rewards and
Gratifications he had promis'd them, to content himſelf
with the Title of Emperor, and the Imperial Ornaments,
and to have his Name mention'd in the publick Acclama.
t1037s ; as for the Adminiſtration of Affairs he would abs
ſolutely reſign it to Alexius. Cæfar would hearken to
no Accommodation; he took'd furlily on Nicephoras,
and told him ; Go tell Boraniates, perhaps bis Propoſals
might have been bearken’d to before Conſtantinople w as
taken: 'Tis too late nod; He is an old Man, and muſt
difcend the Throne; He should mind nothing now, but
Lun to preſerve his Life and Wealth. There being no
hopes of any Accommodation, Borilus, bis Favourite,
Dither'd rogether a good number of Barbarians in the
Enparte's Pay, and drew them up to make head a-
gainſt
A
Chap. IV.
147
Nicephorus Botaniates.
/
gainſt the Comneni. The Patriarch fearing there would A. D.
be Blood Thed, which had nor yer happend, ran to Bo 1078.
taniates, repreſented to him the Impoflibility of his do-
ing any good by Fighting, and perluaded him to retire Botaniates
to a Monaitery. He took his Advice, pullid off his Im. retires to a
perial Robes, sho' with ſome Reluctance, and forget-Monaſtery.
ing to take off the Jewels that were faften'd to the
Sleeve, Borilus inſolently tore them off, reproaching
him with the Poorneſs of his Spirit, ſaying, You are
now in a Dreſs that beſt becomes joil. 'Tis the Nature
of ſuch Wretches to whom Fortune has been ſo laviſh
of her Favours, to be as inſolent to their Maſters in
their Adverfity as they were Humble and Complaiſant
in their Proſperity. How Alexius diſpos d of the twộ
Scythians, we do not find in Hiſtory. 'Tis probable
they made their Eſcape, for otherwiſe he was too
much offended with them to have ſuffer'd them to furó
vive their old Maſter's Misfortunes.
The Comneni were no Cooner put in Poffefſion of
the Imperial Palace, than they order'd two of their
Principal Officers to ſeize Botaniates, put him on
board a Veffel and carry him to the Monaltery of
Periblepta, where they advis'd him to be morn and
take the Habit of a Monk, which he was very loth to
do; but fearing worfe Ulage be at laſt conſented to
it. Some time after one of his old Friends viſiting
him, ask'd how he lik'd the Changc: He anſwer'd,
His Abſtinence from Fleſ was a little troubleſome; as for His Stupia
other things he was not at all conceru'd for the Loss of diry.
ther. Such was the Face of Nicephorus Botanintes,
after a horr Reign of about two Years and eleven
Months His Actions, while he was a Subject, got
him a great Reputation, but he loft it by his Uſurpa-
tion and the ill Ure he made of his Power afterwards.
The ſeveral Rebellions which happend in his l'inie,
to weaken'd the Empire, that the Turks enlarg‘d their
Territories in Aſia inore than in any of the fortner
Reigns, tho' nothing contributed to it more than Mea
liſenus's Uſurpation; who, to rapport his illegal
Power, deliver'd up many Cities to the Infidels for
their Afliſtance, and they could never after be diſa
poffefs'd of them. Botanittes reſign'd his Crown its
Marth; HD. 1681, in the Twenty fifth Year of the
lu z
Heiga
1
1
148
The Roman Hiſtory:
Chap. V.
A. D. Reign of Henry IV. firnam’d the Great, Emperor of
1981. Germany; the Fifteenth of William the Norman King
of England; the Twenty firſt of Philip I. King of
France, and the Eighth of the Pontificate of Pope Gre.
gory VIII.
CH A P.' V.
1
}
From the Beginning of the Reign of
Alexius Comnenus, to his Death.
Containing the Space of Thirty Seven Tears.
Alexius.
+
FROM what we have ſeen of the Character of A.
lexius Comnenus in the former Chapter, we might
expect thar in his long Reign the Roman Empire
would have recover'd part of the Ground She had loft,
and made a Figure in the World ſuitable to the Ex-
tent of her Dominions, which were yer large enough
to have enablid her to have preſerv'd her own.
We
might have hop'd thar ſo Brave and ſo Virtuous a
Prince, as his Daughter Anna Comnena repreſents him
to be, would have rejoyed at the Opportunity which
offer'd by the Expeditions of the Weſtern Chriſtians to
the Holy Land in his Time, to root out Mahometan ſm
in the Eaſt, and to reſtore the Churches of Chriſt
there to their foriner Glory. Inſtead of this, he pri-
vately and publickly oppos'd their pious Deſigns. And
indeed the Greeks had lo ill an Opinion of the Weſt-
ern Chriſtians, who were then all ſubject to the Ty.
janny of the Biſhops of Rome, that they were not very
fond of propagating their Doctrin, and the Greek Em-
perors were not more defirous of a Popish than a Ma-
honetan
Chap. V.
Alexius.
149
A. D.
1081.
hometan Empire in their Neighbourhood, looking on
the Chriſtians in the Weſt as Hereticks and Idolaters,
and who by their Conqueſts might corrupt the Doctrin
of the Chriſtian Religion, more than the Infidels who
deny'd it. Whether they were in the Right, or in the
Wrong, we ſhall not determine ;- and we believe thoſe
that decided the Matter very readily, did not give them-
felves time to conſider it as much as they ought to have
done.
The Empreſs Mary, whoſe Beauty and Wit had
charm'd the two preceeding Monarchs, ſtay'd ftill in
the Palace after her Husband was retir'd to a Mona-
ftery, and 'twas reported that ſhe had hopes of gaining
the New Emperor by the ſame Charms. She had
been very kind to him in Botaniates's Reign, and the
Honours that were paid her by Alexius, her remaining
in the Imperial Palace, and the face ſhe had in the
late Revolution were Grounds enough for the Mulcitude
to Report that he intended to Marry her, notwithſtand-
ing he was betroth'd to Irene, the Daughter of Andro-
nicus Ducas. . Whether Cæfar was Allarm’d at this Reş
port or not, or believ'd any thing of it, does not appear
in our' Hiſtories. 'Tis certain he did what he could
to get the Enpreſs out of the Palace to make Room
for his Grand-Daughter. The Friends of the Houſe
of Ducas, to whom the Comneni in a great meaſure
ow'd their Advancement, declar'd aloud, that the Prin-
ceſs Irene's Intereſt ſhould not be abandon'd by them:
George Palæologus, who had brought the Fleet under
the Citadel, proclaim'd Alexius and Irene Emperor
and Empreſs. The ſame did the Sca.men, and the
Comneni looking out of a Window, bidding them nor
Name Irene with Alexius, Palxologus anſwer'd, Thas
he would always joyn them together, ſince 'tras for her
fake more than theirs, that he had done mbat be hait lately
performd with ſo much Succeſs and Honour. . Having
faid this, he and his Sea-men cry'd out again Louder
than before, God ſave Alexius and Irene, Emperor and
Empreſs
. The New Emperor did not ſeem to be dito
pleasd at it. but his Mother hated the Houſe of D:
cas, and had it been in her Power, would have bine
der'd his Marriage with Ccfar's Grand-Daughter.
The Old Man was very uneaſy while the Empreſs tay'd
L.
1
1
150
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
A. D. in the Palace, and not being willing to meddle in the
1081, Mareer, he apply'd himnſelf to the Patriarch Coſmo, to
thew her the inconveniencies of her remaining there,
or if he would not undertake that Office, to deſire him
nor to Protect her in her Obſtinacy, which he was ao
fraid of. Como would not ſpeak to her, but advis'd
Cæfar to do it ; and he talk'd to her ſo Civilly, and
withal lo Reaſonably, that the conſented to leave the
Palace, provided the New Emperor fign'd a Golden
Bull, to grant her Son Conſtantine the Privilege of
wearing the Imperial Crown and Robe, to be nam'd
in the Publick Acclamations, to sign the Acts of State
after the Emperor, in ſhort, to be the Shadow of a
Sovereign, and no more ; which was agreed to; and
Alexius engag'd, that neither the nor her Son ſhould
come to any Harm. After this, the New Emperor was
Crown'd by himſelf, to the great Mortification of Ce-
Far Ducas, and that Family. Cæſar complain'd of it to
his conſtant Friend the Patriarch, who was ſo much
concern'd at it, that he ſaid he would not leave the
Church till Irene was Crown'd. This ſaying being told
Alexius's Mother, the preſently conſented to it, and
the young Princeſs had the Imperial Crown put on her
Head, ſeven Days after her Husband with the uſual
Ceremonies and Magnificence. The Comneni were ve-
ry deſirous to have the Patriarch reſign his Chair, beo
lieving he was too much in the Intereſts of the Houſe
of Ducas. Como had thew'd ſome Inclination to it,
and that he might have no Pretence to keep it, they
haften'd the Coronation of Irene ; a little while after
thar Solemnity was over, the Patriarch ſeeing himſelf
deſpis'd by the Emperor's Mother, made a Relignation
of his Digniry to Euſtratus, her Creature, whom the
had a Mind to prefer to it.
The firſt Thing Alexius did afrer his Settlement in
the Throne, was to Reward thoſe that had been in-
ſtruinental in his Advancement ; and theſe were ſo
many and expected ſo much, that he was forc'd to
begin his Reign with burthening his Subjects with
Tages and Impoſitions to raiſe Surns for his Relations
and Friends. To Content his Brother Iſaac for the
I oſs of the Empire, he created him Sebaſtocrator, a
new Dignity invented by him in Favour of his Bro-
ther,
Chap. V.
Alexius.
151
ther, by which he was to have Precedence above the A. D.
Cæfars. Orhers he Honour'd with new Titles, and ſcat- 108!.
ter'd his Money with ſo bountiful a Hand, that he ſoon
impoveriſh'd bis Exchequer, and was reduc'd to the
hard Shifts which render'd his Predeceſſors Odious to
their People. Meliſſenus was forc'd to be contented Meliſſenus
with the Title of Cæfar, the Romans Deſerting him as Submits.
ſoon as Alexius was in Poffeffion of the Imperial Power, ,
and the Empreſs Mary retir'd to the Palace of Man-
gana, built by Conftantine the Monk.
The new Emperor perceiving his Subjects murmur'd
at the Robbery which his Soldiers had committed at
the taking of Conftantinople , that the Clergy were
diſguſted at the Pillaging and Prophaning the Chur-
ches, thought to make them a cheap Satisfaction by
confefſing his Sins. (His Ulirpation being the occaſion
of all thic Evils that had happen'd) to the Patriarch,
and defiring publick Pennance and Abfolution. He
oblig'd alſo all his Relations to do the ſame. The Pa-
rriarch enjoyn'd him forty Days Faſt, and to lie on
the Floor all that while, which he did, and was glad
to Appeaſe the Minds of his uneaſie Subjects by the
appearance of a Religious Sorrow for their Sufferings.
His Mother Anne, of the Family of the Delaſſene, was
a Haughey Intriguing Woman, and took on her a
greater ſhare of the Government than belong'd to her,
yer at the ſame time the affected an extream Deſire to
retire to a Monaſtery ; but Alexius, who knew her
Temper, diffembled as well as ſhe, and pray'd her not
to leave all the weight of Affairs on him, which iho
precended to Concern her ſelf in, out of pure Love
to him, and the Confideration of his Youch and In.
experience.
In Augujt 1082, the Emperor receiv'd Information
1082.
that Robert Guifchard, Duke of Pouilla and Calibria,
two Provinces in the Kingdom of Naplos was prepar. The Tartine
ing to Invade his Dominions; to give the Reader ſome of Robert
Light into the Cauſes of the Difference between Alex-Guichard,
įus and him, we muſt look back a liecle into the Hi. Dilize of
ſtory of this Robert.
Calabria.
He was by Birth a Norman Son of Tancredo de
Hautville, a Norman Baron, who having a grear Fa-
mily, and a ſmall Eftate, fent his two Aldeit Sons into
LA
a
152
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
A. D. Italy, to try their Fortune, in the Wars, which the
1082. Italians had' at that Time with the Saracens. Anna
Lib. 1.
Comnena, who is notorioudy Partial in her Hiſtory to
Chap. 7. all thoſe to whom ſhe had any Relation, lays Guichard,
was of mean Birth, and that when he came firſt into
Italy, he had no more than five Horſemen, and thirty
Foot Soldiers under his Command, with whom he
Rob'd on the Mountains of Lombardy. Having ac-
quir'd great Riches, and more Followers, he became
fo Famous, that William Maſcabel, who was Lord of
part of that Country, gave him his Daughter in Mar-
riage, and with her a City for her Portion, which was
the firſt Place of his lawful Dominion, or ſettled Re-
fidence. Soon after he ſeiz'd his Father-in-Law, put
him to the Torture to diſcover bis Wealth, made him-
felf Matter of his Towns, and encreaſing in Power,
overran all Lombardy, and moſt part of the Kingdom
of Niples, ftiling himſelf Duke of Pouilla, Calabria and
Lombardy. His Name and Power began to grow For-
midable in Europe, where the greateſt Princes courted
his Alliance. The Pope, Clement VI. promis'd to Crown
him Emperor of Germany, if he would affilt him a-
gainſt Henry the Great, Michael Ducas, the Greek
Emperor deſir’d his Eldeſt Daughter in Marriage for
his Son Conftantine. His ſecond Daughter was mar-
ry'd to Raymond, Count of Barcelona, and his third to
Count Euſebius, a Lord of great Power and Riches.
Sereng hen'd by theſe Alliances, his Ainbicion ſwell'd
with his Fortune, and finding he could make nothing
of his Arteinpts on the Weſtern Empire, he turn'd his
Thoughts to the Eaſtern, for he was reſolv’d to wear
an Imperial Crown if poſſible ; The Depoſition of
Michiel Ducas gave him ſome Colour of a Cauſe to
enake War on the Greeks, and affert his Son-in-Laws
Right to that Thronę. One Reflor, a Monk, perſo-
naring Michac! Ducas, came to him to demand his
Alitance againſt the Ufurper Nicephorus Botaniates,
who had turi'd him oui of his Palace. Guiſchard pre-
iended the Monk was the real Emperor, and the Latin
Hiftorians ſay alſo he was not an Impoſtor, differing
forezhing in their Account of Robert's Fortune. They teil
os he pur Himicif and Followers in the Service of
tanduplus, Lord of Capun, and afterwards joyning
willa
1
.
Chap. V.
153
Alexius.
with others of their Country-men, whom they ſent for, A. D.
carry'd on a ſucceſsful War with the Saracens in Italy, 1082
bur not being well Paid, Robert their Leader ſeiz'd on
ſeveral Towns in Lombardy and Naples, kept them for
his Pay, and erected a Sovereignty there, which he
left to his Poſterity: Theſe Authors affirm that it was
not a Greek Monk, but the true Emperor, Micbael,
who came to implore the Protection of the Pope, and
of Duke Robert. Leaving theſe Things in the ſame Un-
certainty we found them, we proceed with the Rela-
tion of Alexius's War with the Normans, Italians and
Turks. In his Wars with the Infidels he was Succeſs-
ful, and might have driven them out of the Empire in
Alia, had nor Guichard threaten'd to ſeize his Western
Provinces, and calld him to the Defence of what he
Poffefs'd in Europe. We cannot but obſerve that the
Growth of the Saracens, and afterwards of the Turks
Power was more owing to the Diviſions among Chri-
ſtians, than the Valour, or even the Number of their
Enemies. Solyman, Sultan of the Turks, had taken
moſt of the Cities in Bithynia, and extended his Dumi-
nion as far as Damalis on the Pontick. Sea. Alexius,
with what Forces he had ready, paſs'd over into Alii,
re-took Damalis, and the other Cities on the Coafts,
drove the Infidels out of all Bithynia, except the City
of Nice, and forc'd them to Sue for a Peace, which
he was oblig'd to give them, on News of Guichard's
Guichard
Arrival in Epirus, and that he was lajn down before
Duras, then call'd Dyrrachium, where George Pal.colo Dirrachi-
gus, commanded, and made a vigorous Defence, tho'um.
the Inhabitants were in a terrible Conternation, and
he had much ado to keep them from Mutining. He
wrote to Alexius for Succours, and the Emperor ap-
ply'd himſelf with extraordinary Indufry to get an
Army together, ſtrong enough to oppoſe the Norman,
whoſe Troops were moſt of them choice Men. He
deſir'd Help of the Turks, and enter'd into an Alliance
with the Venetians, who were jealous of Robet's grow-
ing Greatneſs, and fent their Fleet to Pallia, about
two Miles from Guichard's Camp, to Act in Conjun-
ction with the Romans. Bremund, Robert's younger
Son, was ſent to them by his Father, to invite cöem to
joyn with him in the War he had undertaken in De-
fence
BRA
194
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
A. D. fence of Michael, the rightful Emperor of the Romans.
1082. The Venetians deſpis'd both the Meſſage and Meſſen-
The Vene-ger, upbraiding him with the want of a Beard, for he
tians Beat was Young, which the Norman Prince took ſo Hei-
the Nor- noully, that to be Reveng'd, he engag’d them with
mans.
Guichard's Fleer, and receiv'd a total Defeat. Paleo.
logus ſeeing the ſucceſs of the Engagement at Sea, ſal-
ly'd our at the ſame time. on the Beſiegers, and kill d a
great Number of them. The Venetians diſpatch'd a-
way an Expreſs to Alexius, with News of their Vi-
ctory, which was very welcome to the Greek Emperor,
who nobly rewarded the Meſſenger, and ſent rich Pre-
ſents to the Doge, and the chief Officers of the Repub-
lick of Venice.
1083.
Early in the Spring, the Roman and Venetian Fleers
attack'd the Remainders of Guichard's, and drove them
out of thoſe Seas, which the Norman was forc'd to a-
bandon to them. His Land Forces were grievouſly
afflicted with Famine and Diſeaſes; five Hundred Counts
and Perſons of Note, and ten Thouſand private Sol-
diers are ſaid to Die of the one or the other ; and
Alexius had ſufficient Encouragement to hope for Suc-
ceſs in the Expedition he was about to undertake a-
gainſt bim in Perſon. He order'd Pacurianus to Joyn
hiin with the Thracian Troops, and muſtering all his
Forces, put the choiceſt Commanders over them, whoſe
Number ſeem'd to promiſe better Things than they
perform'd: They conſiſted of Foreign Mercenaries of
all Nations in Europe, of Roman), Macedonians, Thel-
Salians, Turks and Manicheans, in all above a hundred
Thouſand Men, whereas Robert had not twenty Thou-
{and Icft in his Camp before Dyrrachium. Alexius
made his Brother Ifaac Governor of Conftantinople, and
left the chief Adiniaiftration of Affairs to his Mother.
He then advanc'd towards the Enemy, and encamp'd
near the River Carzanus, where lie held a great Coun-
fel of War, at which George Palcologus aſſiſted, who
declar'd againſt gi ing Guichard Bartle, believing the
fafeſt, and ſureſt way of deſtroying him, would be by
Harraſting his Soldiers, by frequent Skirmiſhes, keeping
ſtrict Watch to prevent any Proviſions being carry'd
to his Camp. The young Officers, Conſtantine Poro
plerogenitus, Son of Conftantine Ducas, Nicephorus Sya
5:adens: )
Chap. V.
155
Alexius.
nadenus, Nampita, Leo and Nicephorus, Sons of the A. D.
Emperor Romanus Diogenes were for Fighting without 1083,
delay, and the young Men's Opinion- prevail'd, the
Majority being on their fide. So Nampita was order'd
with a Party of the Roman Army to Attack the Nor.
mans, at the ſame time that the Gariſon of Dyrráchium
made a vigorous Salley. Nampita, purſuant to the
Orders he bad receiv'd, charg'd a Body of Normans,
who were poſted between the two Armies for the De-
fence of their Camp, defeated them, and drove them
into the Sea up to the Necks in Water.
Gaeta, RO-
bert's Wife, who follow'd him to the Wars, and help'd
Fight his Battles, raild at the flying Normans, and by
her Words and Actions endeavour'd to Rally them to
the Combat, which ſhe at laſt effected ; and Parties
coming from both Armies to the ſupport of their
Friends on both ſides, the Battle became General and
Bloody. The Romans were ſomewhat diſorder'd in the
Purſuit of their Enemies, and were eaſily roured by
the Normans that rally'd, and freſh Men that came to
their Afliſtance. Guichard perceiving the Romans began
to fly, pour'd in upon them with his whole Strength,
bearing down all before him like a Torrent, which
having been a while reſtrain'd, breaks over the Fences,
and over-whelms the Plain with univerſal Ruin. The
Numbers of the Romans now ſerv'd to encreaſe their
Confufion; and tho' Alexius by his Example maintain'd
the Fight longer than the Normans expected from the
weak Reſiſtance they had at firſt met with, yet he
was forc'd at laſt ro quit the Field, and thift for him-
ſelf, the Turks bafely flying from the Normans at the
very Onſet, and Bodinus, with the Troops ras'd in Alexius
Dalmatia, drawing his Men out of the Battle with defe ured By
Dicke RO
out ſtriking a Stroke, when he ſaw the No mans began berta
to prevail. Robert ſeeing the Victory was entirely
on his fide, and that Alexius was gone, ſent a Party
of the choiceſt Horſe after him, while himſelf and
the reſt of the Normans purſu'd, and flew the flying
Romans, of whom they kill'd a vaſt Number, among
the reſt Conſtantine Porphyrogenitus, Nicephorus Syna-
denus, Nicephorus, Father of George Paleologus, Alpe-
tus, and ſeveral other Perſons of Quality fell in the
Engagement. The Party that was ſent out after the
Empe.
ܪ
150
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
I
{
A. D. Emperor, took his Equipage, and attack'd him and
1033. thoſe few Romans that were with him, but they de-
fended themſelves with ſuch Reſolution, that the Nor-
mans were forc'd to let them go. When they return'd
to Guichard, and gave him an Account of Alcxius's
Eſcape, he fell into a terrible Paſſion, calld them
Cowards and Raſcals, and threaren'd to have them.
Wh.p’d. The Normans repreſented to him the Impoffi-
bility of taking him, the Emperor having leap'd his
Horſe off a Rock, and 'twas the greateſt Wonder in
the World, that he had not been dath'd in ten Thou-
fand Pieces. Their Reaſons pacify'd him a little,
and prevented their feeling the further Effects of his
Fury.
Guichard after the Victory march'd into the Romans
Camp, and gave the Plunder of it to his Soldiers. He
afſaulted Dyrrachium with freſh Courage, and the In-
ho takes habitants deſpairing of Relief, ſurrender'd the Town on
Dyrrachi-
honourable Termis. Paleologus their Governor was in
uin.
the Bacite, and after the Rout could not recover any
Paffage into the City, for want of whoſe Preſence the
Citizens loſt, the Spirit that animated them before,
and Robert became Maſter of the Place. He then put
his Army into Quarters of Refreſhment along the Coast,
and ſent his Officers into ſeveral Countries to raiſe
Recruits, that he might, purſue his Conqueſts in the
next Spring
Alexius got ſafe inro Acris, and there conſidering
his own ſad Condition and the good Fortune of his
Eneinies, he found he ſhould never be able to main-
tain bis Ground without fome Foreign Help. He had
not Money to raiſe Men ; his Treaſures were fooliſhly
quander'd away in the beginning of his Reign on his
Brother and his Relations, who were nor ſo ready as
they thouid have been to aſſiſt him with their Purſes
in this time of his Extremity. To ſpare himſelf and
his Family, Ifaac, his Brother, advis'd him to ſeize the
Church Plate, and the Revenues of ſeveral Churches
that had lately faln to decay. He found out a Canon
that allow'd the Emperor that Priviledge, on certain
Occasions, particularly when the Chriſtians were in the
Hanis of the Infidels, to raiſe Succours for their Re-
lidf, which he urg'd now to be the reaſon of his Bro;
theo
1
Chap. V.
157
V
Alexius.
ther's meddling with the Goods of the Church. The A. D,
Biſhop of Chalcedon zealouſly oppos'd this Innovation, 1083.
and callid it Sacriledge. The Monks preach'd againft
it with their uſual Warmth, when their Intereſt was
concern'd; and Alexius to be revengd of thein, bad Alexius
their Doctrin examin'd, found ſeveral of them to be feizes the
Heterodox in their Opinions about the Worlip of I-Goods of
mages, for which they were ſeverely perſecured, eſpe- tbe Church,
cially the Biſhop of Chalcedon, who was baniſh'd to
Solopoles
, a City on the Black-Sea in Aſia, where ºtis
faid he wanted Neceſſaries,
With the Money the Emperor rais'd by ſeizing the
Coods of the Church, he levy'd an Army, whom he
exercis'd himſelf, and train's up to be ready for Ser-
vice the next Campaign. He return'd afterwards to
Conſtantinople, leaving the Charge of the Army to Pa-
curianus. From Conſtantinople he ſent the Biſhop of
Metymna and othurs on an Embaſſy to Henry IV. Empe.
ror of Germany, to pray him to make a Diverſion to
Guichard's Arms, by falling on his Territories in Italy,
as he had promis'd to do in a former Treaty, when
Robert joyn'd with the Pope againſt the German Empe-
Robert hearing the Germans were preparing to in-
yade Lombardy, recommended his Son 'Bobemond to his
Officers, gave him the Command of his Forces, em-
bark'd on board a ſmall Ship in the Port of Dyrrachi.
um, and fail'd ro Salernum, ir the Kingdom of Naples,
from whence he poſted to Rome, to inform the Pope of
their common Danger, and halten his Preparations to
oppoſe Henry. The Pope's Troops having joyn'd Gui-
chard's, and the Emperor underſtanding Alexius had
been defeated by him, the Germans, who were ar-
riy'd on the Frontiers of Lombardy, were cominanded
back. Robert ſent our Parties after them to fall on their
Rear, but the Germans made ſuch haſt, that they left
their Baggage behind them, which the Lombards cook,
and Guichard carry'd part of it in Triumph to Rome,
From thence he return'd to Salernum, where he relided
fome time to reſt himſelf after ſo many Farigues, learra
ing the Conduct of the Illyrian W'ar to bis Son Boben
snond, a Prince of whom Chriſtendom had already con-
ceiy'd great Hopes.
}
Bolemon
1
158
Chap. V.
The Roman Hiſtory.
3
the two Victories. The Greeks could not ſtand the
A. D. Boheimond cook in ſeveral Towns in Theſſaly, and
1083. fortify'd Foannina, which Alexius hearing, he march'd
againt him with what Forces he had ready, and of
fer'd him Battle, hoping to make bis Advantage of the
Youch and Inexperience of the Norman General; but
Bobemond ſoon thew'd him, that he had to do with a
Captain that would maintain his Father's Fame. He
diſappointed all Alexius's Stratagems, fought him with
undaunted Reſolution and drove the Greek Emperor
once more to Acris, where he left the Command of
the remainder of his roured Army to Pacurianus, and
went towards the River Vardarus in Macedonia, to
make new Levies. Having gor another Army on foot,
he again advanc'd into Illyria, to try his Fortúne a
Alexius third time with the Normans and Lombards. He had
overthroron found in the two laſt Battles, that the Norman Horſe
by Bone- were the Men who had gain'd Robert and Bohemond.
mond,
Guic-
Shock of thoſe Invincible Troops, and to break theit
hard's
Force he threw Pieces of Iron with three ſharp Spikes
50n.
up and down the Field where he intended to engage
the third time, and plac'd ſome Spearmen in the Front
of his Lines to charge the Norman Horſe when they
faw them embarraſs'd by thoſe Iron Spikes. Bohémond
baving notice of his Deſign, chang’d the Order of his
Bartalia and diſappointed Alexius's Artifices once more.
The two Armies engaging ſometime after, the Romans
Routed by ficd at the Onſet, having not yer tecover'd themſelves
kim again. of their laſt Defeat, and Alexius was a ſecond time
forc'd to fly before the Victorious Bohemond. It muit
be confeſs'd, he did all that a General or a Soldier could
do to regain his loft Honour ; but the Romans would
not ftand, turning their Backs, as if the very Looks of
the Normans frighted them. The Emperor flying from
thoſe that purſu'd him, ſaid to one of his Domeſticks, How
far fall we run from lem? And afhamd of bis Flight
turn'd about, drew bis Sword and wounded the forea
moſt of the Normans in the Face ; the reſt ſeeing him
preparing to defend himſelf like a Man, whom three De-
fears had made deſperate, and having left their Cott-
panions ſo far behind them, that the Emperot and his
Party might have kill'd them before they could come
ap, ſuffered him to proceed in his way without any
withi
ܪ
Chap. V.
159
Alexius.
further Diſturbance. He made all the haſte he could Å. D;
to Conftantinople to raiſe another Army, his Courage 1083,
being ſtill the ſame as when Fortune ſmild upon him
in the ewo former Reigns, tho' The had now in a molt
Thameful manner deſerted him.
Bohemond, to improve his Victories, detach'd ſeveral
Parties from his Army to take in the neighbouring Ci-
ties that had nor ſubmitted to him. The Count de
Ponthoile, who commanded one of them, took Scopia,
Peter – Aluf another Commander, made himſelf Ma-
fter of the two Polobus's; and Bohemond had the City of
Acris ſurrender'd to him by the Inhabitants; but the
Governor retir'd into the Citadel, and defended it with
fo much Reſolution, that the Norman was forc'd to
raiſe the Siège. Sometime after he derected a Conſpi.
racy, carry'd on by the Count de Ponthoiſe and other
chief Commanders, to deſert to the Romans. The
Count underſtanding that Bohemond had notice of their
Deſign, fled to Conftantinople, and was graciouſly re-
ceiv'd by Alexius : The reit of the Conſpirators were
ſeiz'd and blinded. Pacurianus fell upon Count Sarra-
fin and a Party of Normans, who had poſſeſs’d them-
ſelves of the City of Moglena, and ſubdu'd the Country
as far as the Vardarus, defeated the Enemy, kill'd the
Count, recover'd the City and Country from them,
and demolith'd the Fort they had built at Moglena, to
keep the Inhabitants in Subjection.
The Emperor receiving Information that Bobemond
had beſieg'd Larila, the Capital of Thelaly, us'd all
poſſible Diligence to recruit his broken Forces, and geë
an Army together ſufficient to relieve it. He defi'd
freſh Succours from the Turks, and the Sultan ſent hinz
9000 Men, under the Command of Camyzus, one of
their moſt famous Captains; but the late ill Succeſſes
of the Emperor fo diſpirited the Romans, that they did
not liſt very faſt, and Alcxius's Treaſury was ſo poor,
that he could not levy Troops abroad, but upon Credit,
which was the occaſion of loſing a great deal of Time
In the mean while Lco Cephalas, Governor of La.
rifla, was reduc'd to the laſt Extremity, and wrote
to the Emperor, telling him, If he did not make more
haft to relieve him, he would be reproacli'd for betraying
she Garriſon, and abandoning them to the Enemy. Alex-
SUR
ib
The Roman Hiſtory: Chap. V.
!
Å. D. its being touch'd to the quick by this Remonſtrance,
1083. parted from Conſtantinople with his own Forces and the
Turkiſh Auxiliaries. He left the great Road and march'd
into Wallachia, paſt the River Plabitzus, the Country
of Libotaniniis, forc'd Ravennica and arriv'd at the lefe
of the City of Lariſa, where he plac'd an Ambuſcade
in a Bottom, in a Place call'd Lycoſtanus. He orderd
his Generals to begin the Engagement by Skirmiſhing,
to charge the Enemy and then retire to the Ambuſcade.
When Bobemond ſaw the Romans, he commanded his
Men to attack them, which they perform'd with their
uſual Imperuofily, and the Romans after a ſhort Diſpute
Bohemond
Med, as had been concerted before. Bohemond purſu'd
defeats bim
them as falt as his Horſe could carry him, and Alexius
i third
Time:
perceiving that he was goć át a good diſtance from his
Camp, ſally'd out of his Ambuſcade, fell upon thoſe
that had the Charge of the Baggage, cut them in Pieces
and plunder'd the Camp. He commanded a Body of
Men to engage the Norinan Cavalry, and to foot rao
ther at the Horſes than at the Men. The Romans o.
bey'd the Emperor's Qrders, the Horſes being wounded
winc'd, threw the Riders, who being armd in heavy
Armour were ſo encumber'd, that they could not de
fend themſelves; Bryen, who commanded them, fent
Notice of the Danger he was in to Bohemond, who
was regaling himſelf at a little Village; after his ima-
ginary Victory, Bohemond immediately teruen'd to his
Army, and fell upon the Romans fo furiouly. that he
deteated them. But Alexius,
But Alexius, and the greateſt part of
bis Troops recover'd a River that was not far off,
påſs'd it, and ſecur'd themſelves from being purſu'd.
The Emperor had ſupply'd Lariſſa with Proviſions, and
a Reinforcement of freſh Troops, and having done
what he came to do, he return'd ro, Theſſalonica, from
whence he wrote to the chief Officers in Bolemond's
Army, ofiering thein vaſt Rewards if they would ſerve
under him, repreſenting to them the ill Uſage they re-
ceit'd from Rniert, who was four Years Pay in Arrears
Alexius, by to them. (To thoſe of them that would nor accept of
bis Policy'ariy Command in the Roman's Armies; be offer a Paſs-
is too bird ports to return into their own Country through Hune
for the gary. This Artifice had the defign'd Effect, the Nora
Normans. man and French Oficers demanded their Pay in
その​うち​に​かかっ
​Chap. V.
161
Alexius.
-
1083
:
Mutinous manner; Bobemond, to avoid their im. A D.
portunity, was obligd to retire to Aulona, where he
Hay'd fome Time, and then Sail'd to Italy, to ger Sup-
plies of Men and Money. He left Bryen in Caſtoria,
and Peter d' Aluſt at Polobus, with Norman Garriſons,
whom Alexius foon reduc'd after Bohemond's Depar-
ture.
Robert, to revenge his Son Bohemond's Diſgrace, rais'd
a mighty Army, and taking his two other Sons with
bim, Roger and Guy, paſs'd from Otranto to Aulona,
took Buthrinto, reduc'd the Iſland of Corfou, and put
Alexius to the Loſs and Expence of a new War, which
he was very ill able to bear. He again delr'd tlie Ve.
netians to allilt him, 'who, joyning their Fleet with
the Emperor's, fell upon Guichard's near Calope, and
defeated it ; three Days after Robert had rally'd and re-
cruited his Navy to venture a ſecond Battle, in which
The RO-
he was bearen more ſhamefully than in the former, mans and
The Venetians after the ſecond Victory return'd to the Venetians
Port of Paſſarus, and either out of Vanity or Weak-beaten at
neſs, ſent their great Ships home to Venice, to carry Sea by the
News of the Advantages they had got.
Gui:bard Normans, 1
haying notice by his Spies, that the Venetians had ſent
home their great Ships, and were in a negligent Poſture
in the Port of Paſſarus, once more refitted his Fleer,
ſurpriz'd them in the Port and gaind a compleat Vi-
ctory, ſunk and took moſt of their Ships, and defroy'd
13000 Men.
He was of a Barbarous Cruel Dilpoli-
tion, and us'd his Priſoners very inhumanely ; ſome
had their Eyes put out, others their Noſes cus off, fome
their Hands and ſome their Feet : But the Venetiaris
foon reveng'd 'their late Diſgrace and his Barbarity;
they gather'd together all their Ships and Galleys in
the Ports of the Levant, attack'd his Fleet near B 14-
thrinto, bear him worſe than in any of their former
Engagements, ſunk his Ships, kill'd his Mariners and
Soldiers, and ſo ruin'd his Fleet, that he never after The Nor-
recover'd the Lofs. The Emperor on News of this mans en-
Victory was very liberal in granting Honours and Pri- tirely de-
viledges to the Venetian State and Officers, permitting, feared at
by an Edict, all the Subjects of the Republick to sel..
Trade Cuſtom-free in any Ports or Places of his Em-
pire.
Robert
162
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
!
A. D. Robert after his Defeat faild to Cephalonia, where he
1085. was taken ill of a Fever and dy'd, in the 70th. Year of
his Age, A. D. 1085. Twenty five years after he had
affum'd the Title of Duke. By his Death Alexius was
eas'd of a Burthen which lay heavy on his Shoulders ;
Dyrrachium was deliver'd to him by the Citizens, and
all the Places poſſeſs’d by the Normans drove out their
Garriſons and return'd to the Obedience of their Sove-
reign.
The unhappy Differences between the Chriſtian
Princes would have given the Turks an Opportunity to
have driven them out of Aſia, had they not been them.
ſelves divided at this Time ; and their Divifions gave
the Chriſtians the ſame Advantages, had they been in a
Condition to improve them. Amyr Solyman, Sultan,
or Emperor of the Turks, who had poſſeſs’d themſelves
of the Provinces on the Euxine, made War
made War upon the
Grand Sultan of Syria, his Unkle, for the City of Anti-
och, which Solyman had ſurpriz'd. Tutufus, Brother
of the Grand Sultan, fought Amyr Solyman, defeated
him, and by his Victory became ſo powerful, that
bis Brother became jealous of him. To provide a-
gainſt the, Danger which he thought threatend him,
he ſent a Chiaouſe to the Emperor Alexius, to propoſe
an Alliance between them, which was to be con-
firm'd by a Marriage of his Son to the Emperor's
Daughter, and he offer'd in ſuch Cafe to reſtore
ſeveral Cities the Turks had taken from the Romans,
to withdraw them from the Sea-Coafts, and to ſupply
him with Troops as his Occaſions ſhould require.
The Chiaouſe's Mother was a Chriſtian , and ſhe
Turk had inſtilld into him ſo many Principles of her
iſh Chia- Religion, that he was converted by'the Emperor's
ouſe-1075
kans and was Baptiz'd: The Sultan his Matter had
Chrijii.il.
given him full Power to deliver up the Towns he of.
ford by the Treaty when it was concluded. The
Chiaoule not diſcovering his Converſion, or ftaying for
the Concluſion of ihe Treaty, went to the Governors
of the Cities, bew'd them the Sultan's Orders, turn'd
our the Turkiſh Garriſons and put in Roman, for which
vilexius created him Dake of Anchiatus, and gave him
other more valuable Rewards.
Solyman
Chap. IV.
i
163
Alexius.
5
Solyman took his Defeat ſo much to Heart, that he A. D.
Itabd himſelf, and the Satrapes, of Governors of Citics, 1035.
upon his Death, finding all things in Conlution, iet up
Sovereignties independant of the Sultan in the Places
under their Government, the Chief of whom was Apel-
cafom, whom Solyman had left with a ſtrong Garriſon
in Nice, the Capital of his Empire. He not only aſ-
fum'd the Title of Sultan, but deſpiſing any Oppoſirion
from his own Country-men invaded the Roman Empire,
and ravag'd Bythinia, as far as the Propontis. The
Emperor endeavour'd to come to Terms with him,
invited him to a Treaty of Peace, which spelcafem e-
vaded and oblig'd Alexius to tranſport an Army into
Afit under the Gominand of Tiricius, who march'd
directly ru Nice and laid down before it ; but hearing
thar Berciaroc, one of the new Sultan 49:Icafem's Allies
was advancing with an Ariny of scopo Men to the
Relief of Nice, he decamp'd and took the Road to
Nicomedia. In his Retreat Apelcafem fell on bis Rear,
but by the Valour of ſome Wettern Troops, Norimins,
French and Italians, he was oblig'd co fuffer them to
proceed in their March without any Moleftarion, He
equip'd a Fleer and made mighty Preparations co Con-
quer the Iſes, part of the Rom.in Dominions, which
the Emperor prevented, by preparing to oppoſe him
with equal Diligence, and having destroy'd bis Fleet,
the routed his Army and oblig'd him to fly to Niie ville
out his Equipage. The Barbarian begun to waitie
more humble, accepted of Alexius's loviiarion lo come
to Conſtantinople, where he arrivd and was receiv'd
with Honours due to the Dignity he hail afiin'd.
Proſuc, another of the Uſurping Gulians, ficing ?pok:-
Fem's Ambition had reduc'd his Affairs to a Lici Viih
the reſt of the Uſurpers, reſulv'd co fall colos Turcja
tories in his Abſence. He came wiib a powerful Army
before Nice, but the Romans joniog with spe!calem's
Forces, oblig‘d him to raile the Sige.
In the mean while the Grand Sobran espected in
vain the Rerurn of his Chia ule; and when he heard
of his Converfion, and how he had betray'di Sinape and
ſeveral other cities ince the Hands of the Russians, he
was extremely enragéd: He onderd his Cineral, Pila
un to inyade Apelculer's Terricorics, sovente his
Allying
164
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
*
A.D. Allying with the Romans ; yet he renew'd the Propo-
1085. fals of a Marriage, but either Alexius, or the Princeſs
his Daughter, would not conſent to it; and not long
after Tutulus murder'd his Brother, roured Pofan, who
would have reveng'd his Maſter's Death, but was
himſelf defeated and ſain by Berciaroc, the late Sultan's
Son. While the Turkiſh Affairs were ſo embroild,
the Roman Emperor might have made his Advantage
of their Diviſions, but that a Storm hung over him in
the Weſt, which hinder'd him from carrying his Arms
into Aha. The Scythians quitted their Native Country,
like their Anceſtors the Goths, and fought out Ha-
bitations on the Danube. Theſe Barbarian's pour'd
in upon the Empire with ſuch Numbers, that all
Oppoſition ſeem'd in Vain, and the Hearts of the
Romans ſunk as low as their Fortune. The Turks
100 were not ſo much employ'd about their own
Differences, as not to have leiſure to attack the Em-
pire ; Elcanus, one of their Caprains, made himſelf
Maſter of Apolloniades and Cyzicus ; but Opus the
Roman General coming upon him, before he was
well ſertled in his Conqueſts, recover'd Cyzicus by
Storm. Apolloniades was lurrender'd by Elcanes, who
went to Conftantinople and was Bapriz'd. This Em-
peror by his Rewards as much as by bis Arguments,
perſwaded ſeveral of the Mahometan Satrapes, or
Generals, to turn Chriftians; and tho it does not
appear that he was a Man of much Religion himſelf,
yer he was very zealous to Propagate the Faith of
Chriſt, which he might do out of a Principle of In-
tereſt, as well as out of Charity, to the Souls of
Men: For the more he derided the Turks, the moie
be weakcn'd their Power; and the Mahomet ans were
the Enemies whom he moſt fear'd. The Scythians
came againſt him in greater Numbers, but they were
not fo War-like a People, nor ſo well diſciplin'd as
the Turks, who, by their frequent Wars with the Ro-
mans ,
had learnt from them the Military Art,
and fought with Troops as regular as the Chriſti.
ans.
The Scythians having enter'd into an Alliance with
the People inhabiting the Country on the other ſide
of the ifter, and by their Permiſsion being allowd to
leat
*
--
Chap. V.
165
Alexius.
The Scy
ans.
fear themſelves on the Banks of that River, they croſt A, D.
it and ravag'd the oppoſite Shoar, with whoin the 1085.
Manicheans, who had lately been perſecuted by
the Emperor, joyn'd, and ſeizing the Paſſes into thians in-
the Roman Territoțies made way for the Barbari- vade the
Empire.
Alexius being inform'd of the Deſtruction they
made in his Dominions, and of the vaſt Mulcicude
that had like an Inundation overwhelm'd the Pro-
vinces, rais'd a mighty Army, and gave the Com.
mand of it to Pacurianus and Branas. Pacurianus
was againít fighting them : On the contrary, Branas
deſpiſing their Numbers, would be ſatisfy'd with no-
thing leſs than a Batele. Pacurianus fearing he hould
be cenſus'd as guilty of Cowardice, if he oppos'd
Branas's Heat, order'd his Men to their Arms, drew
them up in order of Battle, and put himſelf at the
head of the main Body. The Sight of ſuch a prodi-
gious Multitude frighten'd the Romans : However,
they behav'd themſelves in the Engagement like Men,
who, tho' they were not inſenſible of reaſonable Fear,
yet their Courage was ſtill Predominant, and Glory
their reigning Paſſion The greateſt Part of them They defeat
was killd upon the Spot; and among the reſt thetic Romans
Iwo Generals, Pacurianus and Branas: The former
was very much lamented by the Emperor, having
been his old Friend, and very inftrumental in his Ad-
vancement.
1
Alexius, whom no Misfortunes could daunt, fent
for Umpertopulus out of Aſia, ordering him to bring
over the French Mercenaries and joyn Taticius, whoin
he had put in the place of Pacuri.nus, and given him
large Sums of Money to pay off the old Soldiers
what was due to them, and to make new Levies.
As foon as Taticius had receiv'd the Reinforcement
of the French Troops, he marchd again't the Scy-
chians. He advanc'd rowards Phillipooolis. encamp'd
on the Banks of a neighbouring River and fortify'd
lais Camp, warching for an opportunity to attack
them with Advantage before they retir'd, or to fall
on their Rear in their Recrear. He liad not been
long there, when he diſcover'd then approaching
gear his Entrenchments, carrying of a great Booty
2.13
and
**
A
}
7
166
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
A. D. and a vaſt number of Priſoners. He divided his
1085. Ariny into cwo Bodies, and commanded thein to at
tack the Barbarians on the Right and Left at once,
making at the ſame time as much Noiſe as they
could. The Fight was long and bloody, and at
laſt curn'd to the Advantage of the Romans, who
kill'd a great number of the Scythians, and put the
The Scy, reft to Flight, recover'd the Bopty they had taken,
tbians de- releas'd the Priſoners and return'd Victorious to their
feted.
Camp near Phillipopolis. For he was apprehenſive,
that cho' the Battle was over, his Danger was not
much the leſs for it, there being ſtill an innumera-
ble Multitude of Barbarians in Thrace and the neigh-
bouring Provinces; and he fear'd, if he was too eager
in the Purſuit, they might fall upon him while his
Troops were in Diſorder. He was ſcarce ſertled in
his Camp, when his Scouts informd him that the
Scythians were wafting the Country in the Neigbour-
hood of the City Beliotut. He reſolv'd to attack
rben while they were in a Conſternation on the De-
feat of their Companions, tho' their Forces were ina-
ny times as numerous as his. Having put his Troops
in Order, he paſt the Heber; but the Romans,
when they ſaw the Muiticude they were to engage
with thew'd no great Inclination to Fight them ;
and the Scytisins dilencourag'd by the ill Succeſs of
their. Fellows, -and the Appearance of ſuch brave
Troops, did not care to be the Aggreſſors. The
two Armies remain'd three Days in Gght of each o-
ther, drawn up in order of Battle without coming
to Blows; and the Fourth the Barbarians recir'd.
Titiciis purſu'd them to little Purpoſe, the Scythians
heing the moſc nimble in Flight of any Nation in the
World ; fo the Rom.in General march'd back to A-
Thow ?! are drianapie, where he left the French Mercenaries in
3Rk Empire. Garrion Disbanded part of his Forces and proceed.
cd wish the rest to Constantinople, where he was re-
ceira ?-the Enricor with all the Honours due to
a liian wo had doliver'd the Empire from a Formi.
dalle and a Cruc! Chery.
The next Spring Sus, a Prince of the Scythians,
(!nk'd the Motains near the Danube with 80000
Mien, inral: the Epira, ani prinder'd Canopolis,
buc
1
Chap. V.
Alexius.
167
im
but were overthrown, their Prince flain, and moſt of A. D.
his Men kill'd or drown'd in a Lake to which the Rr-, 1085.
mans drove them in their Flight, the reſt eſcap'd to their They agaitz
Countrymen inhabiting the Country bordering on the invade ile
Empire.
Danube, and being join'd by freſh Mulcitudes, they
robb'd and ſpoild the Roman Territories on that lide,
which Alexius thought to chaſtiſe in an extraordinary
manner; and his Generals having been of late ſucceſs-
ful, he flatter'd himſelf, if he went againſt the Barba-
rians in Perſon, he ſhould deter them from any future
Incurſions. In this he acted with more Vanity than
Succeſs : Fortune had forſaken him ever ſince he
uſurp'd the Empire, and the Way of his Arms to fuc-
ceed had been for him to have reſign'd the Command
to others of whom Me was not yet weary. His Forces
being ready to march, he removed from Conftantinople
to Adrianople, and thence to Lardea, where he ſtay'd
fome Time for the coming up of other Troops, which
he had order'd to join him ; and when they were come
up, he held a Council of War to conſult whether he
ſhould give Battle or only obſerve the Marions of the
Barbarians. The Emperor inclin'd 10 fight the Scy-
ibians, and gave his Reaſons for it, That the Incurſions
of theſe Northern Nations continued the Romans Loires
all the Year round, for they invaded the Empire in
the Winter as well as in the Summer, and ſo harraſsu
his Subjects, that unleſs be deſtroy'd them by an entire
Defeat, they wou'd return as ſoon as ever be retir’d,
tho' they might now keep out of his Way. Nicephorus
Bryennius, who, tho' his Eyes were out, followed the
Emperor in this Expedirion, was againſt fighting the
Barbarians on the Banks of the Danube, alledging,
thar if the Romans ſhou'd hare the worſt on't, they
muſt unavoidably be all cut to pieces; for the Scythi-
ans wou'd pour in upon them from all Quarters, and
they had no ſtrong Towns to retire to in thoſe Paris,
The young Officers, George Paleologus, Leo and Nicephe-
rus, Sons of Ranouvo Diogenes, and others, were for
falling upon che Scythians without Delay, deſpiting the
cool and reaſonable Counſels of Bryennills, who was
look'd upon to be one of the beſt Caprains in the Em
pire, and as ſuch highly elteem'd by Alexius. Bren.
faills had alſo a particular Veneration for the Emperos,
1
ܝܼܲ
7
168
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. v.
A.D. tho' he ow'd all his Misfortunes to his Valour and
1085. Conduct, as we have related elſewhere; but Àlexius
us'd him with great Humanity; and Bryennius knew
'twas not in his power to help his being treated like
other Ulurpers by Boteniates. It being reſolv'd by the
Majority of the Council, that the Romans thould ſeek
out the Enemy, the Emperor order'd the Army to paſs
Mount Hemus, and when Bryennius heard the Trum-
pets found a March, he told Alexius, Affure your ſelf,
if you paſs the Mountain, you will ſee who of your Men
have the beſt Horſes; meaning in the Flight, which he
expected would be the Iffue of the Enterprize. The
Scythians receiving Information that the Emperor was
in a full March againſt them with a Puiſſant Arıny,
fent no fewer than 150 Ambaſſadors to him to demand
a Peace, with Inſtruction to join Threats with their
Demands, and to offer to furnita him with 30000 Horſe
whenever he ſhould need or require it. Alexius be-
lieving their Offers came from their Fears, not only
refus'd the r Demands, but ſeiz'd their perſons, and
fent chem under a Guard to Conſtantinople : They were
so many that they cou'd not eaſily be guarded, and
obſerving the Negligence of their Keepers, they fell
upon them at the little City of Nicæa, kill'd them,
and made their Eſcape. The Emperor ſuppoſing that
the Barbarians wou'd highly relent the ill Treatment
their Ambaffadors met with, prepar'd for a Battle,
near the City Driſtra, not far from a little River
which falls thereabouts into the Danube. George Pa-
leclogus, who was one of thoſe that declard at the
Council of War for a Combat, was now of another
Opinion, and advisd Alexiús to attack the Ciry of
Alegalopolis, which took its Name from the Largeneſs
of its Éxtent; from thence be ſaid the Romans might
make Incurlons on the Territories of the Barbarians,
and reſtrain Their Infolence for the furure. The Em-
peror himſelf inclining to a Battle, he was ſoon per-
ſuaded by the Sons of Diogenes to fight the Enemy,
who had laid their. Ambuſcades, poſted their Cha-
rious for the Defence of their Camp; and for an.
noying the Romans came briskly to 'the Charge : The
Christians ſustained the Shock with ſo much Intrepi-
sity, that the Barbariuns began ic doubt of the Suc-
ceis
3
Chap. V.
169
Alexius.
ceſs of the Combat, which was indeed dubious for A. D.
ſeveral Hours, but at laſt a freſh Army of 36000 Scy. 1085.
thians appear'd, and coming down' upon the Romans They rout
with irrefftible Violence, they turn'd their Backs, Alexius,
and fled. The Emperor and George Palæologus were
ſome of the laſt who ſtay'd in the Field, and theſe
ſeeing 'cwas in vain to reſiſt, ſifred for themſelves.
Nicephorus Meliſevus, who uſurpd in the Reign of
Bolaniales, commanded the Left Wing of the Roman
Army, and was taken Priſoner; the Emperor got ſafe
to Beroe, and Paleologus, after having layn conceal'd
for ten Days at a Peaſant's Houſe in a By-place, ar-
rix'd alſo in Safety & Beroe. The Barbarians cut a
vaft Number of the Romans in Pieces, and took as
many Priſoners, whom the Scythian Caprains were
for putting to the Sword, but the Soldiers, by Meliſ-
fevus's Means, deſired to have them ranſom'd, that the
Money might be divided amongſt them.
While the Emperor lay encamp'd at Beroe, gather-
ing up the Remainder of his routed Army, and raiſing
Money to redeem the Priſoners, Robert the 2d, Earl
of Flanders, viſited him, took an Oath of Fidelity to
him, as the Weſtern Chriſtians, who paſt thro' the Em-
pire, were wont to do, and promis'd to ſend him an
Adiſtance of 500 Horſe, which he perform'd at bis
Return into his own Country. Alexius having rais'd
the Sum requir'd by the Scythians for the Ranſom of
their Priſoners, fent it to them, and the Romans were
releas'd, but the Barbarians being compos'd of many
different Nacions, the Comanes quarrelled with the
Scythians for their Share of the Plunder. The Em-
peror bearing of the Diſpute between them, inade his
Peace with the latter, upon which the Comanes went
home, and the Scythians did the ſame, as they had
agreed to do by the Treaty; which Agreement they
kept no longer than till they had provided themſelves
for
a new Expedition. They then re-enter'd the Re-
man Territories, and advanced ſo far, that the Ci-
tizens of Conſtantinople expected every Day to have
them at their Gates. Alexius had no Troops ready
to oppoſe ſuch a Multitude, ſo he beg'd a Peace of He begs
them, which was granted on diſkonourable Conditi- Peace of
Crs. They carry'd off their Booty and their Capithen.
cives,
1
1
170
1
Chap. V.
The Roman Hiſtory.
1
1
$
A. D. tives, and when they had diſencumber'd themſelves
1085. of the one and the other, they came again as far as
Cypſellus, plundering and deſtroying the Country till
they were weary of their eafie Conquefts. Neantzez'
,
one of their Captains, deſerted to the Emperor, and
he being a Man of Note among them, it diſincou-
rag'd them for the preſent. So Alexius had a ſhort
Breathing-time from them, which gave him Leiſure
to look after the Turks, who under the Command of
one Tzacas rook the Cities of Clazomenes and Pbocea
in Tonia, equipp'd a Fleet, and made himſelf Mafter
of the Iland of Chios, which however was ſoon re.
taken by Conſtantinus Delalenus, a Kinſman of the
Emperor's Mother Anne.
The Romans had ſcarce pur an End to this War,
before they were again invaded by the Scythians.
The Emperor having receiv'd a new Reinforcement
of French Mercenaries, march'd out againſt them, de-
figning to ſurprize them: To this End he orderd
that no Trumpets ſhould ſound, that the Barbarian:
might not be alarm'd at his Approach. Neantzez pre-
çending to go up to an Eminence, and view the Dil-
poſition of his Countrymen, ſpoke to them in their
own Language, bad them to fortifie themſelves with
their Chariots, and not be afraid of Alexius, who had
not been able to raiſe many new Troops. A Soldier
in the Roman Army, who underſtood the Scythian
Language, told the Emperor of Neant zez his 'Treaſon;
Alexius charg'd the Barbarian with it, he demanded
to ſee his Accuſer, and when he was brought forth,
drew his Sword, and cut off bis Head in Preſence of
the Emperor, who was not, willing to punift bis In-
Colence at that Time, fearing it might cauſe ſomo
Diſorder in the Army. Neant es pretending an
traordinary Zeal for his Service, and boaſting what
he would do wiicn the Battle came on, deſired one of
the Emperor's beſt Horſes to charge with, which was
given hin ; and he advanced furiouſly againſt the
Screbians, as if he would have borp down all before
bim; but as ſoon as he was out of Reach of the Ro-
s12.2015, he put Spurs ro bis Horſe, got up to his Coun-
Trymer, and turn'd the Point of his Lance againſt his
Benefactors. The Barbarians were inform'd by him
bou
ex.
1
Chap. V.
191
1
Alexius.
1
7
ber Hifto-
3
how Alexius had diſpos'd of his Man for the Engage- A.D.
ment, of which they made ſuch Uſe, thar they gain'd 1085.
a compleat Victory, and the Emperor was forced to Alexius
fly to Ruſis, where he made a Stand, the River near again
routed by
that Ciiy hindring, the Scythians purſuing him any the Scy:
farther. One would not think that this is the Prince
thians.
whom Anna Comnena, his Daughter, in her Hiſtory
of his Life compares with Hector, Achilles, and even Anna
Mars himſelf. We have for ſeveral Years together Comnena
done nothing but accompany him in his Flights; and Jainly
tho' we cannot deny him the Character of a Brave flatters her
Futhen iiz
Prioce, yet ſo many Defeats from the Normans and
Scythians, without one Victory to leſſen the Shame,
Py'
ſhould have prevaild with her to have ralk'd of him
with a licile more Modeſty: Her Alexiade, and ſome
Modern French Memoirs, may ſerve for a Proof,
how difficult it is for the moſt ſensible Perſons to write
of their parents and themſelves with Imparciality,
which is the indiſpenſible Dury of an Hiſtorian.
The remaining Part of the Scythian War was to
che Advantage of the Romans; the Emperor routed
cwo Parties of them one after the other, in the Com-
paſs of a few Days, and they were ſo diſcourag'd ac
this Turn of their Fortune, that for a whole Winter
they forbore making any Inroads into the Empire. In
the following Spring they renew'd their Incurſions,
thonor in ſuch Multitudes as before, and Alexius
gave them a third Defeat, taking a great Number of
Priſoners, who were bound in Chains to one another, He routs
and attended the Emperor in his Triumphant Entry
thians,
into Conſtantinople, where he was received with un.
alual Joy of Victory and Triumph, which were ſo
familiar to the Old Romans, having been Strangers to
the New for ſeveral Ages paſt, a few extraordinary
Inſtances only excepred. One cannot enough ad-
mire to ſee what Raptures Anna Comnena is in on this
Occalion, which, tho' very advantageous to the Re-
mans, was not an Action of ſuch Importance, as to de
ferve ſuch Extafies as ſhe gives it. Niccpherus Melif-
Senus, ſpeaking of what the Romans had got, and the
Scythians Loſs by it, ſaid, The Foy of the Romans was
without Gain, and the Barbarians Grief without Lofs.
And indeed 'twas not long bcforc they invaded the
Empire
the SCT-
}
1
172
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. V.
1
*, D. Empire with a Multitude which ſeemd fufficient to
3085. people it: They plunder'd Towns, burnt Villages,
and committed horrible Waſt as far as the deep Tor-
rent, near the Imperial City. In the mean while
Tzacas with a grear Fleet threatned to make himſelf
Maſter of the Illes in the Ægean Sea, and treated with
the Scythians to carry on their Conqueſts to the Cher-
foneſus, promiſing to prevent any Succours coming to
the Romans by Sea : Add to all theſe Difficulties a
ſevere Seaſon, it being in the midſt of the Winter,
which hinder'd the Romans, taking the Field, tho' the
Barbarians, who were us’d to the Hardſhips of the
Weather, endur'd it without complaining, their Re-
venge and Careleſsneſs making them inſenſible of the
Rigour of the Seaſon. Alexius wrote to all his Allies
for Succours; to Keſeus, Nicephorus Meliſſenus his Bros
ther-in-Law, to raiſe Forces in Bulgaria and Wallachia,
and as ſoon as he could ger his Troops together, and
the Wearher would permit, he took the Field, -and
marched againſt the Scythians. He paſt the Hebre, to
prevent their Incurgons on the other Gide of the River.
When he had drawn up his Army in a Plain near the
Cicy Cyrene, he began to be a little perplex'd to ſee
how ſinall their Number was in Compariſon of that
of the Enemy; but what threw him in a greater Per-
plexity, was the Appearance of 40000 Comanes, who
arriv'd four Days after. The only Way for his Preſer-
sation was, if poſſible, to gain them to his Side: He
knew they had lately had ſome Difference with the
Scythians and that they only came for Plunder, ſo he
ſent to their two Commanders, Togartas and Maniac,
to confer with them : He gave them Royal Enter.
tainment, and promis'd them all the Spoils of the Field,
if they would join with him, and Heaven crown'd
jheir Arms with Succeſs. The Barbarians accepted
of the Terms, and join'd the Roman Army; and Me
liſſeus brought him ſome Thouſands of Men, which he
had levy'd by his Command, and sooo Mountaineers,
who till then had been Neurers in the War, came
down to his Agiltance, and he conceiv'd Hopes of
ending the Troubles which the Barbarians had caus'd
in the Eripire. They ſent to him to beg Peace, to
which he gave uncercain Anſwers to amuſe sheim buc
gle
و
.::
Cliap. V.
173
Alexios.
1
the Comanes, whom he had tempted to leave their A.D.
new Allies, and enter into an Alliance with the Ron 10850
mans, abſolutely refus’d their Friendſhip.
Neantzes, who had betray'd him once before, ſeeing
the Fortune of his Countrymen to grow low, deſerted
again to the Emperor with a Party of Scythians. A-
lexius cominanded the Traytor to be ſeiz'd and thrown
into Priſon, and having implor'd the Divine Affiſtance,
order'd all Things to be prepar'd for a Battle the
1088.
next Day, which
which was Tueſday the 29th of A-
pril.
Early in the Morning Alexius mounted on Horſe-
back, and rang d his Army in Battalia ; the two
Wings were commanded by George Paleologus and
Conſtantinus Delaſſenus. Monaftas commanded a Bo-
dy of Reſerve between the Right Wing and the Coma-
nes, who were alſo drawn up in Order of Battle.
Uzas had a like Body on their Left, and Umpertopulus
led the French Mercenaries; the Main Body was com-
manded by the Emperor himſelf. The Romans were
firſt frighten'd at the sight of ſuch a vaſt Multitude of
Scythians, and of their Chariots, which cover'd them
like a Wall. Deſparing to vanquiſh them by their
Arms, they fell down on their Knees, implor'd the
Divine Help, and then began the Combat. * The Or-
der of the Romans and the Comanes made together the
Form of a Half Moon, and the Scythians ſeeing them-,
ſelves almoſt ſurrounded, endeavoured to dehauch che
Comanes, and to perſuade them to deſert che Romans ;
but ſuch was the Reſentment of theſe Barbarians, for
being deny'd an equal Share of the Plunder in a for-
mer Invaſion, that they would on no Terms join again
with the Scythians. The Battle was long and bloody,
the Romans in the very Beginning of it had the better
of the Barbarians, and tho' the scythians rerurned off
to the Charge, they were at laſt fore'd to ſeek their
afety in their Flight as ſoon as the Roar became ge-
neral: The remaining Part of the Day was given to
Blood and Revenge ; the Barbarians were moſt of Alexius
thern cut to Pieces, their wives and Children, who gives the
always make a part of the Scythians Baggage, were Scythians
maſſacred, and the Deſtruction ſo great that they an entire
had not the Courage to make War with rbe Einpise
Difear,
for
144
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
A. D. for many Years afterwards. This Victory was the
1088. moſt compleat that Alexius ever obtain'd ; 'twas fair
and entire, whereas his Succeſſes againſt Urſell, Bry-
ennius, and Bafilacius were owing more to his Policy
than Valour. In this he behav'd himſelf like a Hero,
and the Glory he got was enough to adorn the Annals
of his yet unfortunate Reign.
The Comanes being ſeparated from the Romans, and
the Emperor ficting down at his Table, Synefius, a
Principal Officer in his Army, came to him, - and
wou'd have perſuaded him to cut the Throats of all
his priſoners. Alexius frowning upon him, reply'd,
Tho'the Scythians are Scythians, they are Men ſtill, and
As much they are our Enemies, they deſerve Compaſſion;
I cannot imagine how ſuch an extravagant Thing could
enter into your Thoughts. He commanded that they
ſhould be diſarm'd, which was done, and at Midnight
the Roman Soldiers rofe upon them, and pur them all
to the Sword. The Emperor believing Syneſius had a
Hand in the Maſſacre, order'd him to be loaden with
Irons, and had dealt more rigorouſly by him, had not
his Friends interceded heartily for him. The ſame
Night the Comanes, frightend at the Cruelty of the Ro-
mans, march'd off with the Booty they had already
gor. Nicephorus Melifjenus arrived with his Levies a
Day or two after the Battle, and underſtanding the
Comanes were idrir'd together with their Reaſons for
ic, he advis'd dlexills to ſend after them the re-
maining Parc of the Booty which was deſign'd for
them that they might not have Cauſe to ſuſpect they
had been unfairly dealt with.
Thus was an End put to the Scythian War, whiela
for five or fix Years had harraſs'd and deſtroy'd the
Empire, and made the Weſtern Provinces almoſt de-
ſolate and depopulared. It encourag‘d the Turks to
inſult her in the Eaſt, where the was become ſo
weak, that the leaſt of the Infidel Princes was a March
for her and her Dominions in Aſia would not have
been worth preſerving, but that they ſerv'd for a Bar-
rier to thoſe in Europ3.
The Emperor had not been long rcrurn'd to Contan-
tinople, before a Plot broke our, carry'd on againſt
his Life and Dignity by Ariebes, an Armenian, and
Unie
Chap. V.
175
Alexius.
Umpertopulus, whom we have had frequent Occaſion
A, DE
to mention. The Fact was certain, the Proofs plain, 1088
and the Criminals had nothing to ſay for themſelves :
However, the Emperor contented himſelf with Ba-
niſhing them and Confiſcating their Eſtates. About
this time Alexius had notice from the Arch-biſhop of
Bulgaria, that John, the Son of Iſaac Comnenus, his
Brother, was meditating a Revolt, and there was
great ground of Suſpicion that the Matter was far
gone, yet 'twas immediately huth'd up, when the
Emperor found that his Brother Ifaac vindicated his
Son ſo warmly, as to threaten to pull their younger
Brother Adrian by the Beard, for raiſing falſe Re-
ports of his Nephew. Another Conſpiracy was ſoon
after detected, form'd by Gabras, Governor of Trebi
fond, whoſe Son Alexius kept in his Court as an Ho-
ſtage of his Father's Fidelity ; but both Father and
Son were ſo diſguſted at his Detention, that they
conſpir'd a Revolt, which being diſcover'd, the
younger Gabras was ſent' Priſoner to the City of Phila
lippopolis, and his Father was diſmiſs'd from his Go-
vernment.
The Comanes, diſpleas'd with their late Entertain. Tzacas tie
ment, made an Incurſion into the Empire, and carry'd
Turk
off a great Bootys; and the Dalmatians alſo were trou-
troublesome
to Alexiusa
bleſome on the Borders, againſt whom Alexius went
in Perſon, repellid: them with little Loſs, and ſo for-
tify'd the Frontiers, that he did not fear any Irrup-
tion on that ſide.
Having ſettled his Affairs in the Weſt, he reſolvid
to bring down the riſing Powers of Tzačas, who had
ufurp'd the Title of King, and fix'd his Royal Seat
at Smyrna. He made Deſcents on the lands in the
Archipelago, ravag'd the Coalts, and had taken the
Iland of Lesbos. He was grown ſo Inſolent, that he
committed Acts of Hoftility even in light of the Im-
perial Haven. The Emperor rais d an Army to reco-
ver the Places he had taken, and equip'd a Fleet to the
fame purpoſe: The Command of the Land Forces he
gave to folin Comnenus, his Nephew, Duke or Gover-
nor of Dyrrachium, and that of the Fieec to Conft 19-
tinus Delaflenus. 3olin engag‘d Tzacas's Army in the
Inand of Lesbos. In the middle of the Fight there aroſe
176
The Roman Hiſtory. Ghap. V.
1
A.D. an impetuous Wind, which drove full in the Faces of
1083. the Iofidels, and oblig'd them to turn their Backs. The
Romans made a great Slaughter of the Enemy, which
reduc'd Tzacas to a neceſſity of making his Peace.
He offer'd ro reſtore the Iſland to the Romans, if they
would furniſh him with Ships to tranſport himſelf
and his Men to Smyrna, or ſuffer his own Fleet to
fetch them, which was agreed to, and the Infidels
return'd to Aſia. Fobn ſail'd from thence to Samos,
and drove the Turks out of that Ifand, which Expe-
dition ended this fortunate Campaign,
The next Year Carycas, Governor of Crete, and
Raplomatus, Governor of Cyprus, threw off their Sub-
jection to the Emperor, and Alexius diſpatch'd away
his Nephew John to reduce them. As ſoon as the
Inhabitants of the Illand of Crete heard of the Arri-
val of John at Searponto, they fell upon Carycas and
the Rebels Maſſacred them, and deliver'd up the
Capital City to the Roman General. From Crete he
fail'd to Cyprus, where Rapfomatus ſeem'd prepar'd
to diſpute the Dominion of the Illand with him, but
as ſoon as Fohn's Army came in light of the Rebels,
the Cypriots deſerted their Governor, who fled to the
Sea-lide, thinking to get on Ship-board ard eſcape to
Syria, but be was purſu'd and overraken before he
could reach the Sea Coaſts. The Romans ſeiz'd him,
and brought him to John their General, who having
fuppreſs'd the Rebellion in Cyprus , return’d to Con-
ftantinople.
Tzucas, whoſe turbulent Spirit could never bear
Reft, was no ſooner got to Smirna than he fitted
our a Fleet of light Ships to Pyrate in the Ægean and
Euxine Seas on the Romans. The Emperor command.
ed Delaſſenus to oppoſe them with the Imperial Navy.
He wrore to the Grand Sultan to infinuate that Tzacas
aſpir’d to his Empire, and he defir'd him to put a
ftop to his Ularp'd Power, prerending he gave him
this Intimation out of pure Friend hip to the Sultan,
whole Daughrer Tzacas had Marry'd. As for himſelf,
he ſaid, I could drive him from my Frontiers with but too
much Eaſe, if my Alliance with sou did not obliga me
to adviſe you to reclaim hiin by fsir meins ;
will not do, to employ your arms againſt him. We
though:
or if that
A
gan
Chap. V.
177
Alexius.
thought the Reader would not be diſpleas'd. to ſee A. D.
what a Face Alexius could put on his bad Circum 1088.
ſtances, and how he diſſembld with the Sultan of
Syria." Tyacas frighten'd at the Emperor's Naval
Preparations, did not go on with Equipping his Pria
vateers : However, he continu'd the War with Alex-
us, and laid down before Avido. Delaenus haften'd
to the Relief of the Place, and the Sultan, on whoin
the Emperor's Infinuations had made a ſtrong In-
preſſion, rais'd a powerful Army to affiſt his Ally A.
lexius. Tzacas allarm'd at his Father-in-Law's joyn-
ing with the Romans, went to his Camp to appeaſe
him, and diſengage him from the Chriſtians. The
Sultan receiv'd him with a pleaſant Look, and great
Tokens of Love and Kindneſs: He made him Dine
with him, according to his Cuſtom, with this Diffe-
rence, that now he loaded him with a: Doſe of Wine,
and when he was Drunk ran him threw. Tzacas fell Kill'd by
the suit111;
down Dead at his Feer, and the Emperor by this
bis Futters
gor rid of a troubleſome Enemy, But Divine Pro-
in-Lan.
vidence rais'd him up another, who threaterr'd his
Dominions with greater Evils than the Infidels. Bol-
Boican,
can,
Prince of the Dalmatians, committed all ſorts
Prince of
of Rapine and Cruelty on the Borders, and defeated
the Dal-
Alexius's Nephew, John, whom he ſent to oppoſe matians,
him. He became fo Formidable at laſt, that the makes W.27
Emperor was forc'd to go againſt him in Perſon. Ac- with Alex-
cordingly he rais'd a good Army, and parted froin ilrs.
Conſtantinople at the Head of them. At Daphnufio,
half a Day's March from the City, he encamp'd, to
wait the coming up of his Relations and their Equi. Alexius
page. While he stay'd in this Camp, he diſcover'd diſcovers e
one of the moſt dangerous Conſpiracies that ever was lingerous
form'd againſt him, whether we conſider the Perions Coin; priui.
concern’d in it, or the Opportunities they had to
effect their wicked Purpoſes. The Chief of the Con-
fpirators were Nicephorus, the Son of Rominus, Disn
genes, Catacalon and Michael Taronitus. The larter
had Marry'd the Emperor's Siſter, Mary Comm:"93.1
.
Catacalon was a Perſon of Illuſtrious Birth, being re-
lated to the Imperial Families : and Diogenes was not
only Eminent by his Deſcent from Romanus ibe E-
pétoig bur for his perſonal Merit, being a Man of
N
Courage
}
178
i,
Chap. V
The Roman Hiſtory.
rus, the
%07.
3
A. .D Courage, and worthy to rule the Empire, to which
3088. he aſpird, had his Title been as good as his Deſerts.
This Plot had been a long time on foor, and the Sub.
ſtance was to murder the Emperor and advance Ni.
cephorus in his room. The Conſpirators thought they
could not have a better Opportunity, than while Alexius
was at Daphnufio. The Army had a particular Vene-
ration for Nicephorus, whom the Soldiers admir'd for
his Valour ; and he depended ſo much upon their
Nicepho. Affection, thar, he apprehended no ill Conſequences
from aſſaſſinating the Emperor in bis Camp. He had
Son of the engag'd ſome of the Officers to ſide with him; Others
Emperor he imagind would be very willing to ſee him on the
Diogenes, Throne, tho' they would nor joyn their Help to
the chief advance him ; and the reſt he thought would be in.
Conſpira- Aluencd by the Army, of whoſe Afiſtance he fancy'd
himſelf ſure. Things were brought to this Concluſion,
when he undertook to affaffinate Alexius. To thar
end he went to the Camp, pretending to follow the
Emperor to Dalmatis. But 'twas obſervd by one of
the Officers of the Court, thar inſtead of pitching
bis Tent at a due Diſtance from the Emperor, as he
us'd to do, he ſet it up very near it, which gave
the firſt occaſion of Sulpicion of fome ill Deſign. At
Midnight, as the Emperor and Empreſs lay in their
Bed, Nicephorus enter'd their Tent with a Dagger in
He enters his Hand. It happend that the Door was open,
Alexius's and no Guards on Duty there ; but one of the Em-
Tent preſs's Women of the Chamber by chance was then
Irma. up, and doing ſome Bulineſs in the Apartment before
he came to the Bed-Chamber. The Woman perceiv-
ing the Affailine in that Poſture, ran and inform’d
the Emperor of it; and Nicephorus finding he was
diſcoverd, retir'd. The Army marching ito Serres,
Me retires.
Confiantine Ducas, Son of Michael, invited the Em-
peror to divert himſelf two or threc Days at a fine
Palace which he had in the Neighbourhood. Alexius
accepted of his Invitation, and Nicephortis having
heard nothing of his firſt Attempt, believ'd the Wo.
man of the Chainber had not ſeen him. He therefore
reſolv'd to make a Second here ; bur tho' the Empe-
ror out of Reſpect to his Quality and Merit had for-
born to have him examin'd on the Evidence of a Wci-
mant,
Chap. IV.
179
Alexius.
$
1088.
man, yet he had been more on his Guard. He for- A.D.
bad Diogenes's having any private Acceſs to him, and
as he was about to enter Alexius's Apartment with a
Dagger by his Side, Taticius puth'd him back, ask-
ing him, Hom he durſt come there with his Arms.
This being a Confirmation of the laſt Arrempt, the
Emperor conſented to have Nicephorus arrelled and
examin'd, yet he order'd it to be manag'd with much He is ara,
Tenderneſs. Adrian, his Brother, was to go to him "eſted.
firſt, and endeavour to perſuade him to confeſs; which
he try'd all poſſible ways to effect, bis elder Biother
Leo having Marry'd Adrian's youngeſt Sitter Theodora.
Diogenes was fullen and would make no Confeſſion,
till he was put to the Torture by Muſacius, who was
Put to the
ſent a ſecond time to take his Examination. 'Tis
Torturi
pleaſant to ſee how many Shifts and Evalions Anna
Comnena ules in this place to excuſe her Father's
proceeding with ſo much Severity againſt Nicephorus.
She pretends that he was rack'd without the Emperor's
Knowledge, and that his Eyes were put out by the
Emperor's Ministers, without any warrant from him,
who only conſented to have him and Accomplices
banich'd. 'Tis certain be confeſs'd his Treaſon, and
that the Empreſs Mary knew of it, but would by no
means conſent to the Affaffination. Conſtantine Ducas's
Enemies reported that he was alſo guilty of counte-
nancing the Conſpiracy, tho' there did not appear any
Proofs of his knowing that there was ſuch a plot on
foor; and Alexius affected to have ſuch an extraordi-
nary Reſpect for the Empreſs, that he commanded
no Body ſhould ever name her having a Hand in it.
'Tis probable neither me nor her Son would be ac-
ceſſary to the Advancement of Diogenes, the Chil. "
dren of the Empreſs Irene being nearly related to the
Houſe of Ducas; and Conſtantine's Mother muſt have
too good an Opinion of her Son's Title, to ſupport
Nicephorus's Ulurpation, But the Correni night
make uſe of this Calumny to leſſen their Obligations to
their Benefactors of the Houſe of Ducas, particularly
to thie Empreſs Mary, and to jultify their Dealing by
her Son Conſtantine, as they thould chink fit hereafter,
Nicephorus, after he had loft' his Eyes, apply'd himſelf
trenuouſly to tlie acquiring Knowledge, and by tha
N2
field
1
18
Tlie Ronian Hiſtory.
Cap. V.
i
A D. help of good Maſters he became perfect in the Sci.
1038. ences of Geometry and Muſick. Tis wonderful to
think how he could arrive to Perfection in Geome-
He becomes
try, a Science ſo ſcrupulous, that 'twill admit of no
Learned in
Speculations that cannot be demonſtrated by Schemes
Geometry,
and Figures, which a Blind Man muſt have a great
and the
Arts.
deal of Difficulty to comprehend, much more to be
Mafier of the Science, as we are told he was, being
taught by a famous Geometrician, who defcrib'd the
Figures upon Wood or ſome other ſolid Body, and
by the uſe of his Fingers he learnt what others are
puzzld with to acquire by the Eyes. His Study and
Meditations were not confin'd to the Mathematicks;
he fell into Maciers of Religious Controverſies, and
had ſome abftrule Notions which were not look'd up-
on to be very Orthodox. Revenge too animated him
fometimes to contrive how he might renew his Ar-
tempts againſt the Life of the Emperor: he had
form'd a Project of Revolt, and communicated in
to his Friends, who, to make their Court to Alexius,
diſcover'd it to him. The Emperor ſent for Diogenes,
obtain'd a Confeſſion from him, reprimanded him, and
then pardon'd him ; which the poor Man was not
much obligd to him for, nor can we much extol a
Prince’s Clemency for giving a Man his Life, whoſe
Eyes he bad before pluck'd out. Tho' the detecting
of this Conſpiracy binder'd Alexius's Expedition
gainſt the Dalmatians a little, yet it had the good Ef.
fect to put an end to the War. Bolcan hearing how
much the Soldiers were enrag'd at the Treaſon of the
Princes, what Zeal they thew'd for the Emperor's
Safery, and how eager they were to be led againſt
the Enemy, was ſo apprehenſive of the firſt Effets of
their Fury, that he ſent to beg a Peace, offering Ho-
ftages for his quiet Behaviour for the future. The
Roman Empire was not in Circumſtances to pretend
to Conquel's, or to refuſe Peace when offer'd, Bola
Folcan
can's Complyance was readily accepted of: He came
bugs
Гелсе,
to the Emperor's Camp near Lipemon, and left two
of his Kinſmen in Holtage with him.
This War was ſcarce over before he was engag'd
in another. The Romans lately were Strangers 0
Kelt and Peace, all the World knew their Weakneſs,
2.
SL
284
Chap. V.
181
Alexius.
and they were inſulied by Little Princes, as well as A. D.
Great, by Slaves as well as by Captains and Princes. 1088.
A privare Soldier had the Impudence to give out that A private
Soldier
he was Leo, the Son of Romanus, and Brother of Nice-
phorus Diogenes, who had been llain in the Turkiſ pretends to
be Leo.
Wars ſeveral years paſt: Tbis Fellow publik'd, ibat Dioge-
he was the ſame Leo who had been wounded near An-
nes's el.
tioch, and was thought to be dead of his Wouds. der Bro-
.
The Emperor deſpis'd the Rumour of this Impoſtor's ther raiſes
Pretences at firſt, bur the Multicude beginning to liften new Trou-
to him, and ſome Perſons of Confideration doing the bles.
fame, Alexius had the Fellow apprehended, and ba-
nith'd him to Cherſona, Theodora, the Emperor's Si-
fter, and Leo's Widow, declaring aloud that he was
a vile Impoſtor. The Cheat was kept in cloſe Priſon,
but he ſome how or other got ſo ſo much Liberty,
that he had Communication with ſome Comanes, who
traded to Cherſona, and was helpt to Ropes by them, the Co
Eſcapes to
with which he made his Eſcape into their Country, manes.
where he got ſuch Credit in a little Time, that he
was proclaim'd Emperor. Alexius expecting an Inva-Wbo pro-
fion from them, provided for his Defence : He gacher'd claim bim
all his Forces together, and ſecur'd the Patles of the Emperor.
Mountains ; himſelf march'd as far as Anchialus : He
viſited the Mountains and the Paſſes, poited a good
Body of Troops under the Command of Nicephorus
Meliſſenus, George Paleologus, Foln Taronite, his
Nephew Michael, the Conſpirator's Son, to guard
Beroe and the neighbouring Country.
Debatenes,
George Euphorbenus, and Conſtantine Umportopulus,
were order'd to guard the Paſſes of the Mountains, and
himſelf encamp'd on the Banks of the Gulp, below
the Cicy of Ancbiatus, for the Defence of that Place.
A Deſerter informing him, thar the Comanes intended
to attack Adrianóple, he ſent a ſtrong Detachment
thither to reinforce the Garriſon, under the Command
of Catacalon Tarcaniotus and Nicephorus, the Son of
Biyennius. Conftantine Catacalon and Monaſtras, [WO
other Commanders, were poſted with a ttrong Army
to obſerve the Comanes, and to fatigue them in their
March by ſudden and unexpected Skirmiſhes. Having
elus provided for the Safety of his Territories as well
as he could, he ſtay'd in his Camp. expecting the Bir-
N
harians
182
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. v.
1
A. D. barians. The Citizens of Golve in their Approach
1088. ſeiz'd their Governor, and deliver'd him in Chains to
the Comanes. The Impoſtor made a Faint on Anchia-
lus, in which the Emperor had thrown himſelf with a
He be-
numerous Party. The Barbarians thinking it in vain to
fieges A. form the Siege, proceeded to Adrianople, and lay
drianople, down before it for near two Months together; the
Impoſtor preſt the Town; he pretended to the Comanes,
that 'wou'd be ſurrenderd in his appearing in Perſon
to attack ir, Bryennius having been very much oblig'd
by his Father Diogenes ; inſtead of which he made a vi-
gorous Defence, till the Garriſon was ſo weaken'd by
Sallies and Want of Neceffaries, that he deſpair'd of
holding out much longer: In one of the Sallies a Ro-
man Officer got up fo near the Impoſtor, that he
ftruck him a Blow in the Face, calling him Mock. Em-
peror; and the Comanes began to ſee that the Intereſt
of Leo was a meer Delulion. Bryennius advis'd A-
lexius of his Diſtreſs, and the Emperor made what
hafte he could to relieve him, but the Affair requiring
greater Diligence than he could poſſibly make, he
accepted of the Propoſal of one Alcaaſus to endeavour
to ſeize him: He told the Emperor, That his Father
had been the pretended Leo's intimate Friend, and that
would gain him Acceſs to bim, after which he would get
him to ſome little Town, and there keep him. The En-
terprize was daring, and ſeem'd not very ſenſible ;
however Alexius bad him do his Endeavours, the
Garriſon, of Adrianople being driv'n to the laſt Extre-
mity. Alcaſus cut off his Beard and his Hair, diſ-
guis'd his Face, and made himſelf look very pitifully,
to move the Impoſtor's Compaffion, and in his Flight he
went to the Camp of the Comanes ; wben he arriv'd
there, he gatht his Face, and tore bis Skin, and then
receiv'd Audience of Leo, to whom he thus addreſs'd
himſelf, The inviolable Fidelity which my Father (more
10 you, emboldned me to throw my ſelf at your Feet, after
having ſuffer'd the moſt barbarous Treatment from Alexius :
For your fake I have endur'd all this, have had my Face
€11t, and my Body torn ; for your ſake I have a long
Time ,layn in Chains, put up in a cloſe, obſcure Priſon ;
sny Father's Friendſhip for you has been the Cauſe of A-
ezing's Haired of me; I have eſcaped at laſt to proftrate
-
1
Chap. V..
Alexius.
183
my ſelf before you, my Sovereign and Deliverer, and to
A. DA
give you fuch Advice as I brlieve will be for your Advan- '1088.
tage: The Impoſtor receiv'd him very graciouſly,
and ask'd him what mult be done to accompliſh his
Deſigns. Alcaſus reply'd, You ſee yon little Cottage, and
the Country about it, it lyes very convenient for fouraging
your Cavalry, and to refreſh your Army when you are in
Poffesion of it ; you may make Incurſions, and
get
in
what Proviſions you pleaſe ; from thence you may eaſily
puſly on your Conqueſts to Conſtantinople; the Governor
is my old Acquaintance, I will go to him, and prevail
with him to deliver up the Town to you. The Mock-
Emperor gave Ear to the Deceiver, and highly applauded
his Zeal and Management. Alexius, before Alacaſus
left him, gave him a Letter to the Governor of the
Place, containing theſe Words, Do whatever the Man
pou'd have you who brings this Letter, as exa&tly as if
I commanded it my ſelf. Alcaſus ty'd the Billet to an
Arrow, and in the Night ſhot it into the City. The
Governor having read it, prepar'd to do as he fou'd
be directed by the Perſon who convey'd it to himn.
The next Day Alcaſus came to one of the Gates of
the Town, and made as if he was talking to the Go-
. He gave the pretended Leo a Signal to thew
bin when he ſhould advance, and making che Sign,
the Impoſtor approach'd attended by a ſmall Nembir
of his Guards; the Governour paid him the Honour due
to his Dignity, as tho' it had been real, and ireated
his Followers ſo generouſly, that they all grew drunk,
and fell afleep. Alcafus, the Governor, and ſome of
the Garriſon, immediately diſarm'd them,''took away
their Horſes, kill'd the Comines, and threw their Bo. He is
dies into a Common Shore. The Mock Emperor taken by
was as faſt as any of his Fellows, and when he awoke Srprizio
found himſelf in Chains. The Barbarians lying on
The Road, Alcafus wou'd not venture to carry the
News of his Succeſs to Alexius, 'bac convey'd the
Counterfeit Leo to Chiorli, and thence to Conit antimo-
ple, where his Eyes were put out by Order of the
Emperor's Mother. Alexius hearing that a Body of 4,id
12000 Comanes were nor far off him, a Convoy to a
biinded.
valt Boory, which they were carrying to their Camp,
he fell upon them, routed them, kill'd 7000, and
cook
vernor.
i
N
184
Cap. V.
The Roman Hiſtory.
1.
A.D.' took 3000 Priſoners; the Soldiers recover'd the Booty
1088. the Barbarians had taken, but the Emperor would not
let them divide it, ſaying, it had been taken from his
Subjects, and ſhould be reſtor'd to them, which made
bim for a while very popular.
After this Victory he march'd to Adrianople; the
Comanes had rais'd the Siege, and the Chiefs of them
came thither to wait on him with Propoſals of Peace :
They only did it to amuſe him while their Army re-
treated; for when they had march'd three Days, the
Ambaſſadors vaniſh'd on a ſudden, without defiring
an Audience of Leave. The Emperor follow'd them
by full Marches, overtook them on his Frontier,
fought, and defeated them. The Barbarians ran in
the Beginning of the Engagement, by which means
the Rornans had nothing to do but to purſue and to
Alexius
kill them. Alexius ſpent the following Night in the
routs the
Field of Battle, and the next Day march'd back to
Comanes. Golve, The Citizens had before return'd to his Obe-
dience, wherefore he ftay'd here fome Time to ſettle
the Affairs of thoſe Parts, and to give due Rewards to
thoſe of his Men, who had Ggnaliz'd themſelves in the
laft Fight.
The War being over in the Weſt, his next Care
was to ſecure the Eaſt from the Affaults of his Ene-
mies. Moſt of the Cities in Aſia, except a few on
che Coaſts, were in the Hands of the Turks : Nicome.
dia, the Capital of Bithynia, fince the Turks had
made themſelves Maſters of Nice, was expos'd to
their Inſults ; for the Defence of which he built a
large Fort, calld the Iron Citadel; himſelf was Over-
feer of the Work, and was indefatigable in carrying
The Fort was finish'd in a little Time, after
which the Empire enjoy'd a ſhort Repoſe ; yet as ſhort
as it was, he had never been ſo long at Reft ſince his
Acceffion to the Throne.
We are now coming to a War which at firſt made
all the Eat tremble, and the Chriftians over the
whole Earth at the News of ir conceiv'd Hopes that
The firſt the Faith of Chriſt wou'd be again eſtabliſh'd in the
Croijade. Eaſt.
The firft Croiſade which we are about to treat
of was eſteem'd invincible; but the Almighty, whoin
Holy Wric calls by the Name of the Lord of Hosts,
lefs
!
it on.
I
+
Chap. V.
Alexius.
185
left the ſuperſtitious Multitude to their own Strength; A. D.
for his Son, the Saviour of the World, has no where 1:88,
in the Diſpenſation of his Divine Will warranted the
Propagacing his Goſpel by Arms. The execrable Im-
poſtor Mahomet commanded his Diſciples to make
Converts by the Sword ; but Chriſt and his Apoftles
recommended their Holy Profeſſion by the Sanctity of
their Lives, by their Meekneſs, Charity, Patience,
and the Exerciſe of thoſe Sublime Virtues, wliich by
a ſweet and ſecret Impulſe gain'd the Minds of Men
withour Conſtraint or Violence. Thac Age was not
very remarkable for Piety, and if the Deſcription of
the Martial Pilgrims, given us by a Greek Author of The Ilic-
kedneſs of
thoſe Times, be true, they were like to convert few,
but thoſe that they firſt conquer'd : They committed the Pula
horrible Violences in the Neighbou bood of Nice, they cut An. Com-
Infants to Pieces, put some of them on Spits, and roaſted nena.
them, and spar'd neither Age nor Sex. But what berrer
Things could be expected from an Army fighting uri.
der the Pope's Banner, whoſe Tyranny was ſown in
Blood ?
The Author of the firſt and the moſt famous Croi-
Sade was Peter, Sirnam'd the Hermit, a French Gen. Peter the
rleman, born at Amiens in Picardy, he liv'd the Life Hermir
of an Anchoret before he went in Pilgrimage to the the author
Holy Land, where he arriv'd in the Year of our Lord of the first
1093. when he ſaw the deplorable State of the Chri. Croiſade.
ſtians in Syria, and was a Witneſs of the Hardſhips
the Pilgrims endur'd : He advis'd the Patriarch of Jea
Tufalem to write Letters to all the Princes in the Weſt,
repreſenting to them how barbaroully the Infidels
treated as well thoſe Chriſtians that liv'd under their
Protection, as thofe chat traveli'd thither to viſit our
Saviour's Tomb, and to deſire them to undertake a
Religious War.
Peter was a little Man, of a very His Cha-
mean Prelence, but Bold, Eloquent, and Politick : rater.
The Patriarch finding he was a Man for his Purpoſe,
ſent him on the Errand he propos'd to all the Weſtern
Porentates, and to the Pope' in particular.
Urban the 2d far then on the Pontifical Chair, and
it being for the Temporal Intereſts of the Pope to
have the Chriſtian Empire enlarg'd, of which the lg-
norance of that Age believ'd him to be the Head, he
glad!
186
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
1
A. D. gladly approv'd of the Deſign, and fummon'd a Coun-
1038. сil at Placentia in Lombardy, to conſider of Means to
bring it about. This Synod met the next Year, but
concluded on nothing, tho' all the Fathers agreed that
a Holy War ſhould be ſet on Foot with the firſt Con-
venience, The Emperor Henry the Fourth was then
at Variance with the Pope, had ſet up ſeveral Anti-
Popes, and was no great Friend to Urban, who calld
The Pope a ſecond Council at Clermont in Auvergne in the fol.
publiſhes lowing Year, where the Fathers unanimouſly reſolvid
ube Croi.
on a Croiſade, which was publiſh'd by the Pope with
fede, many Holy Priviledges and Indulgences for all that
Thould embrace it.
In the mean while Peter was not idle ; he went
about from Court to Court, animating the Princes to
undertake the Defence of the Eaſtern Chriſtians, and
recover our Saviour's Tomb out of the Hands of the
Infidels ; he preach'd up every, where the Merit of
ſuch an Expedition, and ſo patherically ſet forth the
Miſeries the Chriſtians, as well Inhabitants as Pil-
grims, endure in the Eaſt, thar: 'tis incredible to re-
port the Number of thoſe thar lifted under the Banner
of the Croſs, which was wrought in the great Stan-
dard conſecrated by the Pope ; and all thar engag'd
in the undertaking, wore a Croſs on their Cloaths,
to diſtinguiſh themſelves from other Adventurers. The
The Chief Chief Commanders in this Expedition were Peter the
Commen- Hermir, Hugh, Count of Vennandois, Brother to Phi .
Ders in it. lip the ift, King of France ; Robert, Duke of Normandy,
Son of William the Baſtard, and Brother to William
Rufus, Kings of England; Robert, Count of Flan.
ders; Raymund, Count of Thoulofe and St. Giles;
Godfry of Ballon, Duke of Lorrain; his two Brothers,
Baldvin and Euſtace ; Stephen, Count of Blois, and
Hugh, Count of St. Paul. Godfry of Bulloign, tho' not
Generaliffimo of all the Chriſtian Armies, as ſome
Authors have written, who have no better Authority
for it thao Tallo's Poem of the Gieruſalemme, was the
moit forward of all the Chriſtian Princes to engage
in this Enterprize; he fold bis Dukedom of Leige to
Olbert', then Biſhop of thar See, to raiſe Money for the
Expence of his Voyage ; and the Biſhops of Leige bave
ever Gnce been Sovereigns of that'City and Principa-
licy:
!
Chap. V.
189
Alexius.
lity. 'Tis worth our Obſervation, that the Purchaſers A. D.
of the other Princes Lands, who took the Crois, were 1088.
generally Biſhops or Abbors, who impro. d the Neceſ-
liries their Sovereigns reduc'd themſelves to by under-
taking the Holy War, to encroach upon their Tem-
poral Power, by purchafing their Towns and Cries
with the Money which they receiv'd from the Bogoty
of their Anceſtors, or the Alms of charitable Men, for
ſuch was the Foundation of all their Revenues.
Some Writers relate, that there were Seven Hun-9ccoco
dred Thouſand Men, who undertook the Croiſade, Men un-
belides Women and Children. They could not be dertake the
ſuppos'd to do it all out of Devotion, neither can we Croiſade.
believe that all the Princes abandon'd their Domini-
ons out of a Principle of Religion. There was Room
enough in Aſia for them to erect mighty Kingdoms,
who were at home but petty Princes ; and if Aſia
could not farisfie their Ambition, no doub, but their
Conſciences would have ſuffer'd thein to ſeize on the
Roman Emperor's Dominions in Europe.
Alexius was one of the moſt politick Princes of his
Alesius
Age ; his Views were large, and his Foreſight great ; jealous of
his Religion always gave Place to his Ambition, and the Chri-
he gueſt by his own Principles what the I eaders of ſhian Pria
this Farnous Croiſade migic do in their Expedition ; ces.
wherefore he refolv'd to be on his Guard, to appear
ſeemingly to be very much concern'd for the good
Succeſs of their Enterprize, but privately befriend
them as little as poffibly he could without giving them
Offence.
The Romans call'd all the Weîern People beyond
the Alps, Franks, and the Modern French, who are the
vaineſt Nation of Europe, attribute to themielves all
the great Actions that were done by thoſe to whom
the Greeks give that Name : But by French in their Au-
rhors we muſt underſtand Germans, Flemands, Norinans,
Danes, Swedes, French and B.ictains, whom they
promiſcuouſly call Franks, and that Name is ſtill ap-
ply'd to all the Weltern Nations by thoſe of the Le-
vant ; wherefore we ſhall alcribe the Honour to each
Bohe-
of them, as it appears to be their due,
mund
Bohemund the Son of Robert Guiſcard, whoſe Name commodo
is already Famous in the Roman Empire, was Chief of the itali-
the ansa
1
ma
8
25 Idolz-
ters and
188
The Roman Hiſtory. Cap. V.
A. D. the Italians in this Undertaking ; and Alexius and he
1088. reciprocally hated each other ever ſince the Illyrian
War. The Emperor knew very well, that Bohensund
had ſomething elſe in view beſides viliring the Tomb
of our Saviour, and that he would not be at the Trou.
ble of Conquering a Country unleſs he was to Reign
over it. The very Name of Bohemund's being con
cern'd in the Croiſade, was ſufficient to give the Ro-
mans an ill Opinion of it, and ſo allarm the Empe.
ror's
s Jealouſie. But all theſe Reaſons had been of no
weight, if Alexius had had no Fears of the Power of the
Franks, or thoſe Fears had been entirely groundleſs. The
Tle
Geeks had ſuch an ill Opinion of the Latin Religion,
Greeks
and ſuch an Averſion to the Popiſh Idolatry and the
Jook upon
the Latins Pope's Uſurpation, that they could not beartily Eſpouſe
a Cauſe which, as they thought, was to propagate He-
telie and Idolatry: For they look'd upon all thoſe
Hereticks. Chriſtians who ſubmitted to the Tyranny and Worſhip
of the Pope, to be no better than Idolaters and He.
reticks.
In this Diſpoſition were the Romans, the Emperor
eſpecially, to receive the Weſtern Princes, and no won-
der their Welcome was cold, when Alexius and his
Subjects took them to be falſe Friends; neither were
they deceiv'd as we fall make appear when we comé
to treat of their March through the Roman Territo-
fies.
Peter the Hermit, finding his Nėgoriations and Preach-
ing had ſuch an extraordinary Succeſs, that the Num-
bers who took the Croſs, were as the Sands of the Sea,
or ihe Stars of the Firmament; and that all of them
pay'd a Difference to him as the Author of ſo Holy an
Expedirion. began to be acted by a Spirit of Ambition,
Peter the
as well as Zeal for the propagated the Faith, and ac-
Hermit is
embitious. cepted of the Command of the firſt Army of the Croi-
fades which was to advance into the Eaſt. The Mul-
titude was ſo prodigious 'twas not practicable for them
to March altogether. Peter embark'd at Marſeilles and
Tranſported his Army to Italy, from whence he intend-
ed to proceed through Hungary to Conſtantinople, but
his Forces being ftill too numerous to keep Company
all the way, be divided them in two Bodies.
The
:
Chap. V.
189
Alexius.
<
.
I
1
The Command of the leaſt, conſiſting of 40000 Horſe A. D.
and 4000c Foor, he gave to Walter, a poor French 1088.
man, ſurnamed the Moneyleſs, and ordered him to ad-
france towards Hungary, and thence to Conſtantinople.
Walter began his March about the beginning of A-
pril 1096. and when he arriv'd on the Frontiers of 1096,
Hungary, he ſent to demand Paſſage of the King Colea
man, the Son of Ladiſlaus, whoſe Predeceſſor, St. Ste-
phen, about 70 Years before, was converted to the
Chriſtian Faith, and his Succeſſors continued in the
ſame Religion. . Coleman was a cruel Prince, and as
jealous of bis Power as Alexius ; but underſtanding
there was another Army of Exty thouſand Horſe, and
as many Foot, coming after him, under the Com-
mand of Peter the Hermit, and more Armies ſtill to
come, he thought 'would be in vain to reſiſt : He gave
Walter Liberty to paſs, provided his Men paid for
what they had which they refuſing to do on the
Frontiers of Bulgaria, the Inhabitants roſe upon them,
flew great Numbers of them, and deny'd to ſupply
them with Proviſions, till Nicetas, whom Alexius
Comnenus had made Duke of Bulgaria, which Pro-
vince was at that Time ſubject to the Emperor of the
Eaſt, gave them a ſmall Supply, and helpt them to
Guides, who conducted them to Conftantinople.
The Hermit follow'd next with his Crew, com-
Waltem
pos’d of the Dregs of France, Flanders, and Germany, the Mo
Wretches
, whom Hopes of Plunder had drawn from neyleſs
their Habitations, with their wives and Children, and leads the
yer they ſanctified their Expedition with the Glorious firſt Arm
Name of the Holy War. Peter arriving at Malleville, to Con-
on the Frontiers of Hungary, without waiting for Cole. ftantino-
man's Conſent to enter it, attack'd and took it by a ple.
Storm, purting 4000 Hungarians to the Sword, which
was the firſt Blood ſpilld by the Hermit in, his Under- Peter fulls
taking. What Hopes that the God of Armies would on the
blefs ſuch a vile Multitude, who began their prerend-
Hunga-
rians.
ed War for the Recovery of the Holy Land with the
Blood of their fellow Chriſtians, his Men ſeeing their
His Men
Pious General allow'd himſelf fuch Iiberties, exercis'd commit als
all manner of Violence and Rapine ; they plunderd manner of
Towns, burnt Villages, robb'd all Places, raviſhd Crucities,
Women, and behav'd themſelves like an Army that
WS
190
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
{
1
A.D. was rais'd for the Ruin of the Chriſtian Religion,
1096. rather than for its Defence and Support. Nicetas
could not forbear reſenting theſe Injuries, when they
committed them in Bulgaria, he watch'd all Opportu-
The nities to fall upon them, and his Forces at ſeveral
Greeks Times killd ten thouſand of theſe execrable Pilgrims,
kill. 10000 took their Baggage, their Wives and Children, toge-
of them. ther with the Hermit's Treaſure, which he had amals'd
to pay his innumerable Army. Peter with much ado
Peter ar-
got to Conſtantinople, where Alexius was very uneafie
rives at
at the Arrival of ſuch Numbers, eſpecially having
Conſtan-
tinople.
heard how iil they had behav'd themſelves in their
March through Hungaria and Bulgaria.
Let us give the Reader an Account of his Apprehen-
lions of their wicked Deſigns in the Words of his
Lib 10
Daughter, The Knowledge he had of the Valour, Incon-
Cap. 6. Stancy, and Treachery of the French, filld him with Fears
on their Arrival. However he hid them as well as he
could, and outwardly ſeem'd well pleas'd with their
Expedition. Peter's Soldiers, who came for Plunder,
could not lye idle while they lay in the Neighbours
hood of Conftantinople ; they robb'd the Country-
Houſes of the Princes and the Nobility, and liv'd at
Diſcretion at the very Gates of the Imperial City. A-
lexius was ſoon weary of their Company, and advis'd
the Hermit to paſs into Aſia.
Peter would have ſtay'd till Godfry and Behemund
came up, but Alexius perſuaded him to croſs the
Streights, and enter upon Action ; which the Hermit,
proud of his new Quality of a General, and fond of
ſignalizing himſelf, was with little Difficulty prevaild
witb to do.
62 pikes
Having paſt the Streights, he landed in Bithynia,
the Helle- and encamp'd near the litle City of Helenopolis, which
fpont. was then in the Hands of the Infidels His Soldiers being
arriv'd in the Enemy's Country, gave a Looſe to their
generous and civil Tempers, and acted fuch Barbari.
ties, as are not fir for a Chriſtian Writer to report.
The Garriſon of Helenopolis ſally'd on them to revenge
the Crueities they exercis'd on the poor Souls and their
Families without the Walls, but they were over-
power'd by the Numbers of the Pilgrims, as the Gol.
diers of the Croiſade affected to call themſelves, and
Chap. V.
191
Alexius.
foon forc'd to retire into the City. Feter's Army con A. D.
fiſting of Men of ſeveral Nations, they were not long 1095.
reſtrain'd from Quarrelling, and the Differences al
ways aroſe about the Plunder ; a Party of them ſepa-
rated from the reſt ; the Geronans and Italians differ-
ing with the French, the former ſeiz'd the City of
Xerigordus, and would would not have any Commerce
with the latter. The Sultan had Advice of this Sepa- Diviſions
ration, and diſpatch'd away Eleanus, his General, with in his Ar-
an Army to fall upon them while they were thus di. my.
vided. Eleanus retook Xerigordus, cur in Pieces the
Chriſtians that were in the Place, and laid Ambuſ.
cades to deſtroy the Remainder of the Hermit's Forces.
He knew the Character of the French, who were
eſteer'd the moſt coverous Nation in the World, and
ſent two Deſerters to inform them that the Italians
and Germans, who had parted from thein, were in
Poffeffion of Nice, and would get all the Plunder be-
fore they came, if they did nor make Haite. The
Frenchmen underſtanding the Town was extreamly
rich, as ſoon as they heard 'twas taken by their Com.
panions, ran towards the City, without obſerving any
Order or Diſcipline, fell into the Ambuſcade the Turks
had laid for them, and were cut to Pieces. The
Number of the Slain was ſo great, that when their
dead Bodies were heap'd together, they made a Hill,
afrer the Earth was thrown over thein. Peter, who
had taken Helenopolis, ſhut himſelf up in that Place
with the Remainders of his Army: The Turks imme-
diately inverted it, and the Author of the Croilade His Mere
had been the firſt General who fell in it, had not A-deſtroy'd
lexius ſent Conſtantine Euphorbetenes, his Admiral, with by the
a Fleet to bring him off. The Roman Emperor was Turks,
not troubled at the Ruin of the Hermit's Army, which and himſelf
from 180000 Men were in a few Months reduc'd to fore'd to
three; with theſe Peter return'd to Conftantinople, and return iza
gave the World an Inſtance of the Danger of putting
20 Europe,
Prieſts and Anchorets at the Head of an Hoft ſo nunca
tous as his was.
All thar Peter could ſay in his own Defence, as,
that his Orders were not obey'd, and that his
were a Company of Raſcals, whom God thonghi un-
worthy to ſee and adore the Tomb of his Son,
Tbe
en
192
The Roman Hiſtory.
Cap. V.
7,8.
A. D. The next Prince that arriv'd in the Emperor's Ter.
1096. ritories, was Hugh, Count of Vermandois, the French
Hugh, King's Brother ; he had been at Rome to receive the
the French Confecrated Standard of the Pope, after which he
King's
embark'd at Bari, in order to his Paſſage into the Eaſt.
Brother ar-
The Reader will not be diſpleas'd to ſee how well
rives in
Greece
the Vanity of the French Princes in elder Times agrees
with the
with their Succeſſors in theſe latter Days. As ſoon
Conſecrat- as Hugh had got St. Peter's Standard, as if he was al-
ed St in- ready Maiter of the Eaſt, he wrote this impertinent ,
dard. Letter to Alexius, Know, Emperor, I am the King of
An Com- Kings, the greateſt Monarch under the Heavens ; 'tis fie
pena, Lib. cherefore that you ſhould come and receive me with thoſe
10. Cap. Honours' due to my Dignity. And to Folon Comnenus,
Governor of Dyrrachium, he wrote thus, Know, Duke,
His Vini.
that Hugh, Count of Vermandois, is coming, having re-
#y.
ceiv'd the Standard of St. Peter at Rome, as General of
the French Armies ; prepare to receive him in a manner
Suitable to his Quality, and to pay him thoſe Honours that
he deſerves. This Treatment of Strangers is ſo very
extraordinary, that 'twould not be credible but that
the Inſolence of the Modern French renders it more
than probable. The Succeſs of Hugh's Voyage was
anſwerable to his Modefty: At ferritig out moſt of
his Ships, and his Meń periſh'd in a Tempeſt, and
himſelf was driven alhore between Palus and Dyrrachi.
The Governor John receiv'd him as well as he
deſerv'd; he was civil to him, and that was all. A
lexius order'd him to be watch'd narrowly, that he
fhould not eſcape before he had taken an Oath of Fide.
lity to him, which he requir'd of all the Princes that
came out of the Weſt: To this end he was ſent to
Conſtantinople, where Raymund, Count of Touloſe, ar-
siv'd foon after. In bis Paſſage he was engag'd by
Mamocatacalon, who commanded a Squadron of the
Roman Navy. The Count miftaking the Romans for
Syriais, began the Combat; and after he was unde.
ceiv’d, continu'd it at the Inſtigation of a Prieſt aboard
Comne his Ship, who fought with as great Fury as any of his
na's Re. Conpanions: Upon which Comnena makes this Re.
A-Bion un flexion, The Popiſh Prieſts do not obſerve the Carons of
phy Topijh t've c noch ſo religiouſly as ours, nor mind the Freccpts of
Prilisi chCypel, mhich forbid them te drap a spord,
010,
Chap. V.
193
Àlexius.
firike. When theſe Men are in Holy Orders, they are A. D.
not afraid to hold a Buck'er in one Hand and a Spear in 1096.
The other : They partake of the ſacred Myſteries of the
Body and Blood of Chriſt, and at the ſame time breath
Murder, and are Mon of Blood.
The next Prince that came to Conſtantinople, was Godfry of
Godfrey of Bulloign, with an Army of 10000 Horſe Bulloign
and 70000 Foot, whom he had march'd thro' Germany, arrives de
Hurgary and Bulgaria. He pored his Troops in the Conſtantia
Suburbs of the City, and enter'd it himſelf to Confer nople.
with the Emperor, and require the Releaſment of
Count Hugh. The Greeks affirm, that Alexius came to
Blows with the Franks, and gaind ſeveral Advantages
over them, Godfrey refuſing to croſs the Propontis, or
to take the Oath the other Chriſtian Princes had taken
before, and that at laſt the Emperor oblig'd him to do
both the one and the other ; but this is not likely;
the Romans were ini no Condition to oppoſe ſuch Num-
bers and ſuch Troops ; for Godfrey's Men were the
Flower of the Cruſade, conſiſting of Flemands, Lor-
rainers, Nurmans and Germans, whom the Greeks ever
now with a great deal of Arrogance called B* barians.
Had A'exius pretended to have oppos'd chem by Arms,
his Imperial City had been in Danger, which he knew
too well to provoke them. The Truth of the Matter
is, when Godfrey found that Alešius did nor do fairly
by him, he allow'd his Men to behave themſelves a lite
tle unruly ; and the Greeks refiting Violence with Vi.
olence, ſome light Skirm thes happen'd; in one of them
a Gare of the City was ſet on fire, which threw the
Cir zens into luch a Confternacion, that Alexius was
forc'd to come to Terms with the Princes, 10 releaſe
Count Hugh and to engage to ſupply the Chrißian Ar-
mies with what Proviſions they wanted, the Coriſtians
paying him for them. On the other hand, the Princes The Apreen
engag'd to reſtore to the Emperor fuch Towns as they ment be
took from the Turks, which formerly belongd to tie tip? A
Empire, in ſuch Provinces as was mencion'd in the
lexins tid
Agreement, which neither the Princes nor the Empe- of the Crea
the Princes
for obſerv'd, thos they umuually ſwore to the Ollero
radca
vance of it. Things being thus accommodatcd, Alex-
ius treated Godfrey and the oher Princes with his uſual
Magnificence, prelented them witb rich Prelents, and
A.
194
The Roman Hiſtory.
Cap. V.
A. D. then the Army paſt the Streights. Godfrey landed his
1096. Hoft in Bithynia, and encamp'd at Pelicana, waiting
Ilho purs
the Arrival of Count Raoul and Bohemund with their
into Alia. Troops. The Greeks, as long ago as the Days of 78.
venal, were reckon'd the inoft Partial of all Hiſtorians
,
Et quicquid Græcia Mendax peccat in Hiſtoria, ſays that
Poet; and certainly there never were any Authors
more guilty of this Vice than the Byzantine Writers
;
of whom none is more faulty rhan Anna Comneni. She
bas not let any one of the Armies of the Cruſade país
thro' her Father's Dominions without provoking his
Subjects to riſe againſt them, and they were always
V Corcus over the Franks, tho' they had been ſo often
bearen by the Tu ks, and even by the Scythians, the
molt con emp.ible Troops in the World. She tells us,
that Rrou! encamp'd with his Forces near the Patriarch's
Monaſtery on the Propantis, and when Opus by Alexi.
us's Order went to detire them to paſs the Streights,
they oblig'd him to draw an Ariny together, who drove
them out of the Empire fafter than they came into
it.
Count Raoul was follow'd by Bohemund, whoſe
Troops were not ſo numerous as was expected ; this
Prince was a younger Brother, and Roger the Eldeſt
,
who ſucceeded Robert Guichard in his Dominions in
Itaiy, being jealous of his Brother's aſpiring Temper,
Bohe did not care to encourage it too much. He came to
Conſtantinople, as the other Princes had done, where
the Emperor affected to give him a friendly Reception,
Conftanti-and Bohemund, who was as great a Diffembler as A.
nople.
lexius, ſeem'd to have forgot that they had ever been
Enemies. Alexius made him ſeveral noble Preſents, as
well to engage his future Friendſhip, as to get rid of
him the ſooner. We are told that a certain French
Count, who was in the Emperor's Court when Bohe-
The lofón mund was there, had the Confidence to Seat himſelf
lence of
down in the Imperial Throne, for wbich he was re-
French
pror'd by Baldwyn, Earl of Hiynau't. The French
Colliro
Man reply'd in his own Tongue, Sure Alexius is not
such a Clown as to Sit alone, while ſo many Excellent
Comm.inders are ſtanding ; but we cannot think the In-
folence of that Nation was ever ſo Extraordinary.
mund
COMS to
.
1
The
Chap. V.
195
Àlexius
The Princes being all arriv'd in Bithynia, held a A. D.
great Counſel to conſider with what Attempt they 1096.
Bould begin ihe War. The Siege of Nite was pro-
pos'd, and preſently agreed upon. This City, belides
Ithat 'twas Rich, and for chat Řeaſon very much deſit'd
by the Army, lay convenient for purcing a ſtop to the
Incurſions of the Tuks. who froin thence with Eaſe
could rnake Inroads as far as the Proportis. 'Tis fa-
mous for being the Sear of the first Oecumenical Coun-
The Chrio
cil held there by Conftantine the Great, A. D. 325; Aiaus Be-
Tis 144 Miles fron Nicomedia, 25 from Pruſias, and
Siege Nice.
was the Metropolis of the Province Founded by Anti-
fronus, the Son of Philip, and calld Nice by Lysimachus,
one of Alexander's Caprains, in Honour of his Wife
Nicza. The Town ſtands partly on the Deſcent of a
Hill, and partly on a Plain, and was ſtrongly fortify'd
by Solyman Curlu Mofes, who had fet up a Sovereignty
there, independant on the Grand Sultan.
The Chriſtians at a vuiter were found to be 600000
Foot, and 100000 Horſe, too vaſt a Multitude to take
öne Road: For which Realon the Armies were divie
ded into two great Bodies. Bobemand led one throp
the Inland Parts of the Province, and Godfrey the o.
ther along the Coalts; and when they arriv'd before the
Town, Quarters were aflign'd to the ſeveral Lea-
ders, for carrying on the Attacks with more Order, and
leſs Confuſion, or rather out of Emularion in the Genea
tals to Signalize themſelves and their Troops.
The Emperor underſtanding that the Franks were
lain down before Nice, paſt over to Birbynia, and re.
fided at Pelicana, to watch his opportunity to get the
Town into his own Hands. The Romans, whom A. Alexius
lexius had permitted to March wirb the F anks to the Truuts pré-
Siege of Nice, were commanded by Butumitus, wio .itely with
the inadora
privately correſponded with the Inhabitants to pos
ſwade them to deliver the Place to bis Maiter their
Neighbour, rather than to Strangers. They bad caken
the Ciry from the Romans, and were in hopes to be
barrer us'd by then than by the Froolis, becaur heir
Territories being Contiguous, it was in their Puwer
to Favour or Ofend the Grocks more than they could
the Frank
On
196
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. V.
:
A. D. On this Account they hearken'd to Butumitus's Pro.
2096. pofals, and enclin'd if they were forc'd to ſurren-
der, 10 yield up the Place to him, in behalf of A.
lexius.
In the mean time Solyman degrd Affiſtance from all
the Sultans of his Faith in Aſia, and having rais'd a
mighty Army, advanc'd as if he intended to give the
Chriſtians Battle, but after two or three ſmall Skir-
mishes, in which he had the worſt, he deſpair'd of
relieving the City, and wrote to the Inhabitants to pro
vide for their own Safe y as they thought beft, inti.
mating that he had rather Alexius ſhould have the
Town than the Princes, who continu'd for ſeven Weeks
together to Aſſault the Place with a Force that was ir.
reliſtable. That Time being expir'd, the Cüiz.ns de.
fir'd a Conference with Butumitus, who Commanded
the Roman Atrack. The Generel argu'd with them on
the Advantages they would receive, by purting the
Town into his Maſter's Hands: He ſhew'd them the
Imperial Parents, granting a General Pardon to the
Inhabirants, and he offer'd great Honours and Riches
to the Sultan’s Wife and Siſter, who were in the Town
They were ſo charmd with the Offers and Promiſes,
that they immediarely receiv'd Butumitis into the City,
who diſpa:ch'd away a Meſſenger to Taticius, who had
bronght him a Reinforcement of 2000 Men, with this
ſhort Meſſage. The Prize is ours, you have nothing to
do but to continue the Siege with vigour. A Device of his
to have the Franks believe, That he enter'd the Town by
Force and take away all Suſpicion of his Correſponding
with the Inhabitants. The next day the French gave a
Tie City
furious Affault, making a rerrible noiſe; upon which,
de
lyd Butimitus planted the Roman Enſigns on the Walls, with
Trumpets founding and Drums beating, and ſeiz'd the
Greeks. Keys of the Gates that none might go out or come in,
without his knowledge.
1097
The Princes were extremely morrify'd to ſee the Ro-
mans had diſappointed them of their Prey, eſpecially the
Soldiers who expected to be enrich'd with the Plunder.
They Curlt the Emperor's Cunning, and would gladly
have been reveng'd on him ; but they knew he would
be a dangerous Enemy, if he ſhould joyn with the Infi.
deis, or hinder their having Supplies of Proviſions out
၅
to the
Chap. V.
197
Alexius.
of Europe : For this Reaſon they ſuffer'd their Relent. A. D.
mene to go no farther than hard Words and Curſes. 1097.
Alexius, to put them in good Humor, was very Libe-
ral of his Preſents to the Princes, and of his Donations Alexius
to the Soldiers : However, their diſappointment for the Curs’d by
th: Weſtern
Loſs of Nice, made them look upon him afterwards as
Chriſtians,
their Eneiny. This Conqueſt the Emperor ow'd to the
Arms of the Franks: The Romans cou'd never have re-
cover'd ir without them, and for this ſervice only, they
delery'd becter Treatment than they met with from him
in the courſe of the War.
The Remins were ſo jealous of them, that Butumitus
would not ſuffer them to enter Nice, by above ten at a
time ; and his diffidence created a reciprocal difruft in
the Franks, which they cou'd not be cur'd of while they
were in the East. A Form of Friendſhip was ſtill pre-
ſerv'd between Alexius and the Princes, who waiced on
the Emperor at Pelicana, and was receiv'd by him
with unuſual Ceremony and Magnificence ; and when
they went away, he ordered Taricius, with his Forces;
:0 attend them in their future Expeditions, but he act-
ed ſo coldly, that 'twas eaſie to perceive, he had In-
Itructions to be of no uſe to them.
The next Attempe of the Chriſtians was upon Ana
tioch, whither they march'd in two Bodies ; Bobemund
led the foremoſt, and in the Plain of Dorilea, found the
Sultan with an innumerable Army for which all Aſia
had been drain'd of her be!ł Troops, prepard ro diſpute
his Paſſage, The French Count who ſat down on the
Imperial Throne, and whoſe Name we do not find in
Hiſtory, Commanded the Van of the Chriſtian Army,
was driv'n back to the Main Body of that Army, and
the Turks attack'd the Franks with great fury, Bihemund
diſpatch'd away a Courier to Godfry, ro halten his ap-
proach with the other part of their Forces, himſelf
made a ſtand till they came up, and then the Chriſtians
obtain'd a glorious Victory. In their march, they mer The Chri-
with another Army of 800co Men, who they alſo fins Butt
roured ; and again, a third near Auguſtopolis ; they plun. the Turks
der'd the Infidels Camp, and ſo intirely diſpers'd chem, in three
that they were no more oppos'd 'till they arriv'd before Battelse
Antioch, once called the Great, and elteam'd the 3d Ci-
ty in the World, 'Tis the Capital of Syria, and has
O 3
sho
198
The Roman Hiſtory
1
Cap. V.
A. D. the Title of a Patriarchate, ſituated partly upon a Hill,
1097º and partly in a Plain, divided by the River Orontes.
The Saracens rock it in the year 970, and fortify'd it ſo,
that 'twas thought impregnable: This City was the
moſt Beautiful, as well as the biggeit Ciry in Ajia, in
the days of the Auguſti : It had often been deſtroy'd by
Earthquakes, and rebuilt with greater Splendor: 'Twas
the Seat of the Governor of Syria, and the Habication
of Men of Riches and Pleaſure, which made it famous
for its Luxurv and Magnificence. The Chriſtians for
above pine Months together clofely befog'd and vigo.
roudly attack'd it. The Turks defended themfelves
They bec. with equal R Golution to the lat Ex-rimity. The Ci-
frege Anti-
tizens within were deftroy'd by Pestilence and Famine,
och.
and without the Chriſtians were tormented with the
ſame Plagues, and hoh Cruelly perſecured by Delo
pair, Emulation and Divifions among Officers and Sol-
diers. The Belieg'd had no Bndy to have recourſe to
for Relief, but the Sultan of Perſia, to whom they ſent
an account of the Miſeries to which they were reduc'd
and implor'd his Afliſtance.
In the mean time Bobemund had taken an Antiochian
Son of the Commander of three Towers, on the Walls
over againſt his Arrack. He us'd rhe young Man very
civilly, and ſo gaind him by his Gencrofity, ibat he
Bohemynd ſeem'd diſpos'd to do any thing he fhould delire of him :
Corre They then diſcours d about the Feazibieneſs of ſurpriz:
fponds with ing the Town by the help of his father, whom the
the Citi yang Man promisd to engage; and he had the leſs
795.
Difficulry to do ic; becauſe the Antiochian was an Arme-
ni in by Birth, bred up in the Chriſtian Religion, and
inclin'd of himſelf to reitore ir again to the Chriſtians,
ene Conviction of the Truth of their Faith lying till
on his Conſcience, tho' he outwardly conform d him.
Teif to the Abominations of the Turkiſh Law. When
Bobcuurd had concerted his Meaſures with the young
Man he difrils'd hina Ranſom free, and left him to
work the Marrer with his Father, whoſe Name was
Pyirlis. Tho' this Mao was a new Convert, yet Ac-
cien, Saltan of sintioch, had ſo grear an Eſteem for
him, and Consulence in him, that he made him Secreo
tary of Stats, and truired him with the keeping of the
Large Toges we have menţion'd. Pyrrhus was at firſt
mightily
1
I
I
5
1
Chap. V.
199
Alexius.
mightily pleas'd with Bohemund's obliging Carriage to A. D.
his Son, eſpecially his ſending him Home without any 1097
Ranfom, and this kind Impreifion of him prepar'd him
to hearken to the Propoſals which his Son made him
in Boh mund's Name with the more Attention. The
Antiochian reflecting on the Advantages he inighe make
himſelf by it, and the Service he ſhould do his Native
Religion by delivering lo great a City from the Servi.
iude of the Infidels, was prevaild with to enter into a
Treaty with Bohemund, which was carry'd on by his
Son, whom Pyrı hus ſent frequently to the Chriſtian
Camp as a Spy, and the Terms of the Surrender being
agreed on between them. The Antiochian fent this
Meſſage to Bohemund, I will deliver up the three Towers
which I Guard when you pleaſe, only give me a Signal,
and have your Scaling Ladders ready, and to throw the
Turks into the greater Confternation, Order it so, that
there may be a general Afault at the ſame time. While
this Conſpiracy for betraying the Town was carry'd
on, News came to the Chriſtian Camp, that, the Sul-
tan of Perſia was advancing to relieve the City with
an Army of 200000 Horſe, and a proportionabie Num-
ber of Foor, a Multitude that the Powers of Chriſten-
dom, were they united might Tremble to hear n m'd,
and which the fatigu'd Forces of the Pilgrims were in
no Condition to oppoſe. Bohemund, who was now ſure
of the Place, had two Things to do ftill before he could
take Poffeffion of it; One was to get rid of Taticius,
who expected to have it reſtor’d to his Mafter the Roo
man Emperor, and the other to ſecure the Sovereignty
of it to himſelf, To sid himſelf of Taticius, he were
to him, and pretending to he mighrily his Friend,
ſpoke to him thuś, My Friendſhip for you obliges me to Fris Devi-
diſcover a Secret to you. The Princes are very much ene les to get
rag'd at a Rumour ſpread about the Camp, that Alexiustk sove-
has call'd in the Sultan of Perſia, to deprive il:em of the rriguey of
Conqueſt of Antioch, and no doubring of the Truth of in, the City.
they are reſolu'd to make away with you, and your Men;
shought it my Duty to inform you of it, that you may do as
you think best for your own Safety and theirs. Taticius
reflecting on the Probability of the thing, and on the
Hardſhips his Men endur'd by the Faorine, which rag'd
is the Chriftian Camn, as also beliering the Freriks
you!
1
. تا 27
fo
200
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
A.D.
1997.
would not be able to make themſelves Maſters of An.
tioch, decamp d, embark d aboard the Roman Ships,
which låy in the Port of Soudis, and lail'd to Cy.
prus.
The Princes were not at all ſorry that he had left
them, they look'd upon him while he was among them
to be little better than a Spy: However, his Retreat
gave them new Cauſe to Rail at Alexius's Treachery,
who promis'd to Affilt them with all bis Forces, and to
Accompany them in Perſon in the Holy War, which he
gever intended to perform.
The Chriſtian Scouts giving the Generals Noțice,
that the Sultan and his innumerable Arny approach'd
daily nearer and nearer their Camp, Bohemund thought
at time for him to manage his Matters w:'h them, and
ſecure the Dominion of Antioch ro himſelf, while the
Princes were apprehenſive of the dreadful Power thar
was advancing againt them, and despair'd of maſter-
ing the City. To this Purpoſe he procur'd a Meeting
of the Chiefs of the Crulade, and when they were met
he ſaid to them, You ſee after all our Fatigues we get na
Ground, we fall form be destroy'd by Famine if i have
mot found rut an Expedient to reciver us out of the miſea
rable Condition we are in. The Princes asking him what
it was, he thus continu'd h's Diſcourſe. All Victories are
310t grin'd by Arms, nor in the field of Bitre. There
Are ſome Conqueſts that cannot be obtained by Force, but
muſt be gor by Policy; and thefe,are not always the leaſt
Gloricus. As for us me have no Time to loſe; the Sultan
advances to relieve the Town, we muſt provide for our
Safery, and preverit him by Addreſs and good Conduit. Let
each of us endeavour to win the Afection of him that des
tends the Quarter of the Place be attacks; and he that
ſucceeds and ſurprizas the Toron by his Intelligence, let
him h.tve the Principi'iry of Antioch for his Reward
The Chriſtians Chiefs ſaw thro' bis Diſguiſes ; but they
had no berrer way to take for i heis Safety and Honour,
ihan to conſent to his Propoſals. The Sultan was come
within a few Days March of them. The Famine
ſwept away their Men by Thouſands, and their Arms
would be liamefully diſgrac’d, if they ſhould abandon
a 'Siege which had coſt them ſo greatExpence of Time,
rcature and Trouble. Bohcmurd having whar hę
wanted,
I
!!
con
&
Chap. V.
Alexius.
201
wanted, gave the signal agreed upon between him and
A. D,
Pyrrhus; and the Night following the Antiochian threw
1097,
down a Cord, with which be drew up a Ladder, fa.
ften'd it to the Battlements of one of the Towers, and
Behemund and his Soldiers mounting ic, kill d the Turks
that were upon Guard there, broke open a Sully. Port,
admitted more. Troops, and theſe forcing open the
Gates, gave Admitrance to the whole Army, who by He Sur.
Day break were all got into the Town. The Turks prizes the
Town.
were moſt of them pur to the Sword. Accien the Sil
tan eſcaping in Diſguiſe, was found hid in a Corage in
the Count:y and killd. A few of the Turkiſh Soldiers
threw themſelves into a little Fort, and de ended them-
felves there with incredible Bravery; but at laſt they
were forc'd to ſubmit, and were all flzin. Such was
1098
the End of this long and bloody Sege, which held
from Auguſt 1997, to the 3d of Fune 1098. The Sul-
ran of Perſia arr v'd ſometime after, and finding the
Chriitians in Poffeffion of the Town, he belieg'd them
in ir ; bur they made a fur:ous Sally upon the Turks,
fori'd their Camp, entirely roured them, and got ſo
much Plunder, that they were thirty Days carrying it
into Artioch.
Bu hemand being allow'd by all the Chriſtian Chiefs
to be the Man by whole Management the City of
Antioch was reduc'd, he was by their unanimous Con-
ſent dcclar'd Prince or Governor of the Town, as
Comnena writes. Whatever his Dominion was, 'tis
certain 'rwas Independant and Hereditary, as we
fall ſhew hereafter. The Princes fent Hugh, Count
of Vermandois, and Baldwyn, Earl of Haynault, to Alexius,
to notify their Succeſs, and to defre the Performance
of the Agreement they made with him at Conſtantino.
ple. The Roman Emperor on the contrary thought
himſelf ill usd, in that Antioch was not reſtor'd 10
him, and was ſo far from giving them any further The Empe-
Help, that he entirely abandon d them. The Earlyor aban .
Baldwyn periſh'd in his way to the Emperor's Court, donis the
ſuppos'd to be ſet upon and murder'd by his Soldiers. Princes.
Count Hugh gor to Conſtantinople, but never return'd
to the Princes, to give them an Account of his Em-
baſſies. He was either diſguſted, that ſo much No-
(!ce was taken of Godfrey and Bohemund, and so little
1
.
02
The Roman Hiſtory.
Cap. V
E
A. D. of himſelf, or elſe he was weary of the War, and made
1098. what haſte he could home again.
Alexius perceiving that the Princes would nor be his
Tools to do his Work and then be neglected, to con
quer
Towns and Provinces for him, which the whole
Srrength of the Roman Empire could not have reco-
ver'd, and to be paid with fair Words, falſe ſmiles
and a few Preſents ; he gave over any Thoughts of
turning their Arms to his Advantage, otherwiſe than
as they made a powerful Diverſion in Aſia, to improve
the Opportunity and fall on the Turks with a ſeparate
Ariny in thoſe Parts where they were moſt trouble
ſome to him. Tzacas had ſeiz'd Smyrna, Tangripermes,
Epheſus; and other Turkiſha Caprains, Chios, Rhodes
and ſeveral Iſlands, where they built Ships, fitted them,
to Sea from thence, and thither brought the Boory they
gor in a Pyratical War.
The Emperor reſolv'd to equip the Imperial Navy.
and raiſe a powerful Army to attack the Turks by Sea
and Land. He made F olin Ducas, the Empreſs's Broe
ther, General of his Land Forces, and gave the Com-
mand of the Fleet to Cafpacius, impowering Ducas tą
act either by Land or Sea as he thought fit.
The General part the Hellefpont landed his Army
at Abidos and march'd directly towards Smyrna, order-
ing Cafpacius to fail thither and affault it by Sea,
while he attack'd it by Land. To encourage Caſpa-
cius he promis'd him the Government of the City
with the Country about it, if he could reduce it. When
the Fleer and Land Army appear'd before the Town,
the Inhabitants, who had heard of the Fate of Nice
and Antioch, deſir'd ro Capitulate, and ſurrender'd the
ZheGreek Ciry on Honourable Condittons. Cafpacius was made
rake Smyr. Governor of the place and Country, but did not long
enjoy bis new Office; a Citizen complain'd to him,
that a Saracen had rob'd him of a congderable Sum of
Money ; Cafpacius order'd the Infidel to be brought
before him, and the Criminal thinking that he was to
be carry'd to Execution, reſolu'd to do ſome deſperate
Deed before he Died, itab'd the Governor in the Belly,
and wounded his Brother in the Thigh. The Croud,
etiar waited to ſee the Iſſue of the Matrer, amaz'd at
the boldneſs of the Deed, fer the Murderer eſcape by
theis
22.
!
Chau. V.
203
Alexius.
upon
their Aſtoniſhment. Cafpacius dying of his Wound, A Done
the Soldiers and Seamen to revenge his Death, roſe 1098.
the Turkiſh Inhabitants and killd Ten thouſand killiOLOG
of 'em.
of the 1920
Ducas having provided for the Defence of the Town, habitants.
and plac'd a new Governor over it, march'd to Ephe-
fus. Tangripe mes levy'd a good Army, and offer'd
him Battle, which the Roman accepted, ot. The Fight
Jafted almoſt a whole Day, and was a long time doubt-
ful ; ac laſt the Romans obtain'd a Glorious Victory,
kill'd a great number of the Enemy, and cook 2000
Priloners, among whom were leveral Officers. Ephe-
Jus was the Reward of his Victory, of which City he They take E-
made Petzcas Governor, and proceeded to Sardis pheſus,C6
Storm'd the Town and took it He reduc'd Phila.
delphia in the ſame manner: Upon this the Citizens of
Laodicea ſent him the Keys of their Gates ; other
Maritime Towns in Ionia and Phoenicia, where the
Turkiſh Pyrates usd to retreat with their Prizes, he
ſubdu'd, and defeated another Army of Infidels near
Polybotus, kill'd and took moſt of them, and enrich'd
his Soldiers with the Plunder of the Field.
The Emperor hearing of Ducas's Succeſs, was will
ing to ſhare the Glory with him, croſs'd the Hellefpont,
and meeting with a Party of Barbarians near Philo-
melion, he routed them and cut them to pieces. If-
mael, Sultan of Ionia, allarm’d at the Progreſs of the
Roman Arms, took the Field with a numerous Army ;
bur before he could ger his Forces ready, Alexius was
gone, carrying off a rich Boory with him to Conftanti-
nople ; and Iſmael having had ill Succeſs in his Afu
tempt on a ſmali Fort, which the Romans defendeu a-
gainſt all his Forces with unconquerable Valour, recir’d,
without doing anything worthy the Reader's No.
rice.
Tho'the Princes did not think fit to take ſo long a
Journey ar the Expence of ſo much Trouble and coſt
to conquer Towns for Alexius, yer the Reader may
perceive their Succeſſes in Aſia were very advantageous
The States
to the Romans, who, till their Arrival were little bee- of the La-
tins ada
ier than Slaves to the Turks in thoſe Provinces, and ſo
dejected in their Slavery, that they were almoſt afraid vintageous
çc !cok upon Liberty, when 'twas hewn them by the Greeks.
Princes
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
204
A.D. Princes of the Cruſade. Theſe Fears with-held Alexius
1098, from joyning with them; He was unwilling to provoke
the Turks, and thought to purchaſe their Favour by a
Thameful Neutrality. He was, 'tis true, jealous of
the Princes; but that Jealouly might have been cur'd
had he been beartily diſpos'd to break with the Turks,
whom, fince the Victories of the Franks he defies,
with the Bravery worthy the Name of a Roman Empe-
sor.
The Year following is famous for the Conqueſt of
Forufalem. The Chriſtian Princes refreſh'd themſelves
and their Army at Antioch, and then 'twas refoly'd ro
march towards the Holy City. In their way they took
in ſeveral ſmall Cities; the greater they neglected, til!
after they were Maſters of Jeruſalem. They arriv'd
before it the laſt Day of June, and on the 15th of July
1099. they took it, and put all the Saracens and Fews chey
The Lat-
found within it to the Sword.
tins tuke Godfrey of Bouillon, Duke of Lorrain, was unani-
Jerufalem mouſly choſen King of Ferufalem, and Crown'd with a
Godfrey Crown of Thorns. Godfrey refuſing to wear a Crown
Bouillon
of Gold, where the Son of God was ſo ignominiouſly
chorenz
King.
created by the Fers. The Emperor Alexius was not
very well pleas'd at the ſetting up a Chriſtian Monar-
chy in the Eaſt; and he had reaſon to be more angry
with the Franks afterwards, when he heard that Tan.
cred, Bohemund's Nephew, was ſat down before Laodi.
cea, of which he ſoon made himſelf Maſter, and drove
out the Roman Garriſon. That City lay conventent for
Bohemund to receive Succours from Lombardy, it being
a Maritime Town. Alexius enrag'd at this Affront,
fent an Order to Butumitus, his General in the Eaſt,
ro march againſt the Prince of Antioch, and recover
lexius ar
whac Places he had taken ; but the Romans were not
Wir with a March for the Franks and Butumitus only reduc'd
Bolie Maraſīs, with two or three other little Towns in Cili.
mund in cia, hardly worth keeping.
Alia. The Einperor now profeſsd bimſelf openly an Ene-
tiny to the Princes and receiving Information that the
He oppoſes Biſhop of Piſa was preparing a great Fleet to convoy
Supplies of Men, Money and Proviſions to the Chriſti-
operly.
ans in the Holy Land, he reſolvid to oppoſe them.
He order'd the Rom:113 Navy to be equip'd and to put
Chap. V.
20
Alexius.
to Sea. The chief Command of it he gave to Tati. A.D.
cius who met the Weſtern Fleet, fought it off Rhodes, 1099
and gain'd a compleat Victory. The Imperial Gene-
rals after they had deſtroy'd the Biſhops Navy, appre.
hended Bobemund would revenge the Loſs on the Roa
mans in Aſia, and ſent Ambaſſadors to him to demand a
Peace; but the Prince of Antioch ask'd them, Hopp they
could expect it, when they had burst his Ships, and bad
them be gone, left be pould puniſh their Treaſon as it de.
ferv'd.
This mean Compliance in the Romans being of no
Service to them, Alexius was very diligent to raiſe
Forces, expecting Bobemund would not fail. ro ſhew
his Refentment in a very high Degree. The Emperor
order'd his Fleet to put to Sea again, hearing the Germa
ueſe were b: inging more Supplies to the Franks. Lan-
dulphus, who commanded the Roman Fleet, met the
Genoueſe, bur durft not attack them, finding they had
more Ships than himlelf; fo he retir'd to Corona. Cana
tacuzenus was General of the Land Forces, and when
the Genoueſe had fanded their Supplies, he refolv'd to
carry on the War with Buhemund with the utmolt Vis
gour, and to begin it with the Siege of Laodicæa. Lan.
du phus tranſported the koman Army to Phænicia, and
forwarded the Siege by Sea, while Cantacuzenus preſs'd
the Place by Land. The Haven and the Town were
foon mater'd; but the Franks retiring into the Cita-
del, held out a long time. Bohemund hearing what
Dilreſs they were in, mufter'd all his Forces and
march'd to their Relief: Bur tho' he found means to
throw himſelf into the Fort, to ſupply it with Proviſions
and a Reinforcement of freſh Men, yet he could not
prevent its falling into the Emperor's Hands ſhortly af.
ter. The Romans reduc'd Adena, Tarſus, Longinias,
and all Cilicia, which Province ſtretching a great way
along the Coaſts at the bottom of the Mediterranean
Sea, Atreighen'd the Franks very much, whoſe Supplies
came to them with little Difficulty, while they were
Maſters of thoſe Coafts.
Behemund began to be allarm'd ar the encreaſing
Power of the Greek Emperor and his Intereſt, as well
as his Hatred of his Perlon, put him upon contriving
all the ways he could think of to defend his own new
Domi-
206
The Roman Hiſtory.
Cap. V.
A.D. Dominions and annoy Alexius. He could carry on a
3099, Defenſive War, but that would not ſatisfie bis Harred
nor bis Ambition. The Emperor he knew was beo
conie odious in the Weſt, for his Behaviour towards the
Princes of the Cruſade and 'rwould not be difficult for
him in Italy to raiſe whar Money and Men he wanted
againit him, if he was there to negotiate the Matter in
Períon. Alexius was Maſter of the Sea-Porrs, and
how to get thither was his only Perplexity. Ar lait he
bir on a Siraragem, which 'was almoſt impoſſible for
Human Wit to invent, and is an Inilance how far Am-
bition and Revenge will animate great Minds, what
they will endure to gain their Ends, and how Ingeni.
ous they make them in the Execution of their Deſigns.
When he had ferried his Affairs at Antioch to his Cora
tent and plac'd his Couſin Tancred in the Government
of the City, he order'd a Report to be ſpread, that
Bohe-
he was Dead; and that the Report might gain Credit,
mund's
Tanced and the Officers of his Court mouro'd for bim
gurp.izing with great Solemnity; when the News of his Death
Stratagem
to Eſcape
and the Belief of it had.generally obraii’d, he order'd
Alexius. himſelf to be put into a Costin, in which little Holes
were made for him to breach ar, and a dead Cock was
ſhut up with him. whoſe noiſome Smell was miſtaken
for that of the Corps of Bohemund. The Coffin was
accompany'd by ſome of his Lombard Servants, weep-
ing and tearing their Hair for the prerended Death of
their Maſter. In this plight he was convey'd to the
Sea. fide, and ſhip'd on board a Veffel prepar'd for that
Purpoſe; the Roman Officers not giving themſelves
the Trouble to ſearch a Coffin, ſince by the Smell they
thought they knew what was in it. As ſoon as he was
got out to Sea, his Servants gave him ſomething to eat,
but he did not come forth of the Coffin till he arriv'd ac
the Illand of Corfou, where he diſcorer'd himſelf to rhe
Governor, and is ſaid to have charg'd him to tell his
Maler, the Greek Emperor, That he wruld arm the Lom-
An. Com. Bards, the Germans and the French againſt him, that he
would fill his Provinces roith Murder, and make Conítar-
tinople ſwim with Blood, and a great many more Rodo.
mantades, which ’ris not likely the Governor would
hear, and then let him go, noi that Bobemünd would
venture to diſcover himſelf in an Eserny's Coun-
try.
1
Chap. V.
207
Alexius.
.
Alexius was extreamly troubl'd and perplex'd when A. D.
he heard of Bohemund's Eſcape: He might weil appre- 1099.
hend the Effects of a Man's Revenge, which could ſup-
port
him under ſo terrible a Fatigue as he had under-
gone, to put himſelf in a Condition to exerciſe it. He
wrote to the Republicks of Pifa, Genoa and Venice,
praying them not to hearken to Bohemund's malicious
Diſcourſe : But the Weſtern States were all provok'd
by his Carriage to the Franks, and Bohemund's Intereſt
and Character was ſo great, that he could hope for no-
thing better than the loſs of his Empire, unleſs he
could defend it with his own Strength againſt the uni-
ted Power of the Italian and French Princes. For be
heard, that Philip IV. King of France, had not only
eſpous'd Bohemuna's Quarrel, but had given him Cone
ftantia his Daughter in Marriage, and promis'd another
Daughter to his Couſin Tancred.
Such was the Melancholy Poſture of Alexius's Affairs,
when he departed from Conftantinople to Theſſalonica, to
be near at hand, if Bobemund, as he expected, mould
make a Deſcent in Illyria. He carry'd his Wife with
him to comfort him, for he was now in a very ill
ftare of Mind, occafion'd by his Fears of Bobemund,
and his Grief for Tancred's Succeſſes in Cilicia. This
Prince not ſatisfy'd with ſecuring Antioch, overran all
that Province, took ſeveral Towns in the Inland Coun-
try and carry'd off a great Booty. He was alſo diſturb'd
at the fight of a Comer, ſhap'd like a Lance, which foc
fix Weeks together appeard in the Heavens. He ſent
for Bafilius, a Man of ſome Quality, and a famous
Aſtrologer, to conſult him on the Appearance of this
dreadful Meteor. Bafilius, ſays my Author, defird
Tine, and retiring to his Lodging, near St. John's
Church in Theſſalonica, he apply'd himſelf ro the Con-
fideration of this new Phenomena, luc falling aſleeep
he ſaw St. John in bis Pontifical Habit in a Dream. He
ask'd himn what the Comet porrended, and St. John re-
ply'd, It foretold the Irruption of the Franks, and its
Diſappearance would ſignify that they fould be deſtroy'd.
The Saint could not have given an Anſwer more
to Alexius's Mind ; bue a Child might have paſt
as good a Judgment upon it without any Revelati-
CÁT.
While
i
i
208
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
A.D.
While he reſided at Theſſalonica, he prepard to give
1099. Bohemund as good a Reception as his preſent Circum-
ftances would permir. He had brought his Excheques
low by his Liberality to the Franks ar their first com.
ing, and by his late Expeditions again't the Turks;
and 'twas with much D ficulty that he provided for
his Defence as well as he did : He ordir'd all the
Forces in the Weſt to rendezvou: at Theſſalonica, he
hird mercenary Troops, repair'd the Firtihcations of
the Cities in Illyria, ftrengrhen'd the Garriſons, and
made Alexius Comnenus his Brother Ifaac's ſecond Son,
Governor of Dyrrachium, which City he ſuppos'd Bo.
hemand would arrack firſt. ; he commanded all bis
Ships in join the Imperial Fleet, and order'd the Ad.
miral Conteſtophanes, on Pain of forfeiting his Eyes,
not to let Bohemund give him the dip,
or pa's by him
without a Battle. When he had done every thing
which he thought. neceſſary for the Security of Illy. ia,
he return'd to Conſtantinople, wbere a dangerous Con
{piracy was detected, carry'd on by Perlons of the
Firſt Quality, who being ſome of them related to the
Imperial Houſe of Ducas, and to his own of Comneni,
were the more certain to accompliſh their Deligns;
but they were diſcover'd in Time, and ſeverely pu.
nithid. Here Anna Comnena gives us a long Account
of her Compaſſion to Michael, the Chief of the Con-
ſpirators, for whoſe Pardon the prevail'd with her
Mother to inrerceed, and had gor a Grant of it, but
it ſeems the Executioner had led him beyond a certain
Place, which was the Bounds of Life, and all that pat
it, were not to be repriev'd.
Bohemund was all this while nëgotiating his Affairs
with the Pope, and other Princes in the Weſt, for
Afilance againſt the Greek Emperor, the Enemy of
their Croiſade. Conteflophanes was ſo over-officious,
char nor contented to wait the Prince of Antioch's com.
ing, he fail'd with the Roman Fleet to Otranto in the
Kingdom of Naples, where he landed what Men he
had aboard, and was ſo warmly receit'd by Tancred's
Mother, who, like another Pallas, oppos'd his Del.
ceor, that his Forces were entirely routed; many of
his Soldiers fell on the Spot, Otliers were taken; and
among the reſt fix Scythians, whom Hohemund carry'd
to
1
Chap. V
209
Alexius.
to the Pope, to Mew that Alexius brought Pagans to
A. D.
1136
fight againſt Chriſtians.
Conteſtophanes made what
halte he could to his Ships, the Italians purſuing him,
and great Numbers of his Mer, who eſcap'd in the
Fighe, were driv'n by the Conquerors into the Sea,
and drown'd. The Roman Admiral after ibis Diſ.
grace fail'd back to Dyrrachium, and poſted his Fleet
ar Aulon in Albania, abour 12 Miles from Dyrrachium,
extending as far as Chimara, 7 Miles from Aulon. But
as ſoon as News came that Bohemund had ſer Sail, his
Men were ſo diſcourag'd by their late Defeat, chat
moſt of them deſerted, ſome pretending to be fick, and
others, defiring Leave to bath themſelves, ſwam 20
ſhore at Chimara, and made their Eſcape.
Some time before the Arrival of the Italians in Illy-
ria, Gregory, Governor of Trebizond, revolted. Alexa
irs ſent Folon, his Nephew, to reduce him, who fought
him, defeated him, took him, and brought him Pric
foner to Conſtantinople, where he was a long while
kept in Priſon. 3ohn, who had formerly been his
Friend, interceded for him, that he Mould have no
other Puriment, and Bryennius, the Husband of An-
na Comnena, and the Hiſtorian to whoin we are in
debred for ſome of theſe Memoirs, viſited him in Prio
fon, to perſuade him to recurn to his Dury, and ac-
knowledge his Fault, which he refus'd to do: How-
ever he did it at laſt with ſo good Effect, that he was
releas'd, employ'd, and became the Reigning Favou-
rite.
Buhemund having embark'd all his Forces, confiſting
of Engliſh, Germans, and French, mnoſt Part of whom
had formerly ferv'd in the Roman Armies, raild from
Otranto with a mighty Fleer, which ſtruck Terror into
all that ſaw ir, and Iteer'd his Courſe for Aulon. The
Greek Admirals, when they perceiv'd ſuch a vaſt Fleet
approaching, hoiſted Anchor, and gave ihe Franks
Bohem
their Room in the Haven, nor daring to encounter them.
miund
So Bohemind landed his Men, fcour'd up and down the
1272, lit
Country with detach'd Parties to plunder and walte la, the Erin
till all Things were ready to form the Siege of Dyrrachia
pirzo
im: He then lay down before the City, and attack'd
it with great Fury. Alexills, the Governor, preſently
fent away an Expreſs to the Emperor to advise him of
Bon
210
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
A. D. Bobemund's Deſcent and Proceedings, and to delire Re.
1106. lief. The Emperor was Hunting when the Meſſenger
arriv'd, and falling down at his Feet, cry'd out, Bohea
mund is landed. All the Company were frighted at
the News, their Sport was ſpoil'd, and Alexius only
was himſelf at the hearing ſuch diſmal Tidings; he
fhew'd no Alteration of Temper, but with a great
Preſence of Mind turn'd about to his Companions and
faid, Como let us go to Dinner, we'll afterwards prepare to
receive our Enemies : Yet tho' he kept his Countenance
ſo well, his Heart was more concern'd than any of.
thoſe that mew'd ſo much Fear in their Looks. He im,
mediately order'd his Troops to march to Geranion,
and follow'd himſelf in the Beginning of November
where when he arriv'd, he pitch'd his Purple Tent;
and fer up bis Imperial Standard, waiting for the com-
ing up of his Forces from all Paris, whom he order'd
to rendezvous there, where he ſtay'd five Days, and
then proceeded to Theſſalonica, accompany'd by the
Empreſs and his Relations. From thence he march'd
to the River Heber, paſs'd it, and encamp'd at Ipſala.
Bohemund to take away from his Men all Hopes
of Retreat, burnt his Ships : He detach'd ſeveral Para
ties, who took in Petrulus, Mylus, and ſome Cities
in the Neighbourhood of Dyrrachium, which very
much ſtreighren'd it : He brought his Machines to bear
againſt the Town ; but the Governor built other M2-
chines within it, which render'd Bohemund's uſeleſs.
The Franks however held the Belieg'd in continual
Action, and the Romans began to be weary of the Fa-
rigues they endur'd. Bohemund's Men were alſo not
very mạch at Eaſe. The Provifions in the Country
had been deſtroy'd, and Supplies did nor come from
Italy as faſt as they wanted them ; beſides, Bohemund's
Ships being burnt, the Romans were Maſters of the
Sea, and 'twas with Dificulty that any Ships could get
into Au!012, or any of the Places on the Coaſts where
Bohemund was Maiter. The Scarcity begat a Sickneſs
and Famine; and Diſeaſes always raiſe Murmurs
in an Army. Alcxius by his Spies knew the Diſpoſition
of rhe framls : He was pleas'd with the vigorous De-
fence the Governor of Dyrrachium made, yet he ſaw
no Way to relieve it, unleſs by lowing Diviſions in the
Prince
li
Chap. IV.
212
Alexius.
of which he army,
Prince of Antioch's Councils ; and raiſing Jealouſies be. A. D.
ween him and his Oificers he could ruin bis Enter 1106.
prize. To this End he conſulted with the Franks in
his Service; Marino, a Neopolitan, Roger Dagobert, a
Frenchiman, and Petr D' Aluph, a Normanwho had all
ferv'd him faithfully a long while, and from them he
learnt who were Bobernund's Friends, in whom he
confided moſt ; to whom he wrote Letters, as if they
had been Anſwers to ſome choſe Italians had writcen to
him, in which he thank'd them for diſcovering the Deo
bigns of their Leader, deſir'd the Continuance of their
Friendſhip, and aſſur'd them of his. Theſe Letters
were directed to Guj, Bohemund's Brother, the Count
of Converſan, the Count de Principut, Richard, and Alexius
others, who had really never had any Correſpondence endeas
with him. He order'd a Courier to carry the Letters yours to
to thoſe Perſons, and another to go before to Bohe-
Som Ei-
viſions in
Sund, and pretending to deſert Alexius, inform him
Bone:
of the Treaſon of the Lords, that they betray'd all his mund's
Councils to the Roman Emperor,
might have undeniable Proofs, if he would order ſuch
perſon, who was on the Road with their Letters, to be
ftopt and ſearch'd, demanding that the Courier ſhould
have his Life, becauſe he was innocent of the Crime, and
knew not what he carry'd. Bohemund gave Credic to
his Information, had the Courier ſeiz'd, read the pre-
tended Treaſonable Lerters, and order'd all thoſe to
whom they were directed to be arreſted Bobemund
was ſo concern'd at the Falſhood of ſuch Friends, ori
whom he ſo much depended, that he ſhut himſelf up in
bis Tent for fix Days rogether, revolving in his Mind
ſometimes the Danger he had run, ſometimes the great
Loſs he ſhould have in being depriv'd of ſo many Ex-
bellent Cominanders, and ſometimes the Improbability
of their Treachery, which laft Confideration agreeing
with his Wishes, he refolu'd to examine the Mat-
ter more before fie would accuſe thein, or bring them
to
Trial; and having more and more Reaſon so fue
ſpect the Truth of the Fact they were all enlarg d and
teſtor'd to their offices.
The Emperor finding his Piet did not take as he
would have had it, fene for Cantacuzenns from Laodi. 1207.
ted to oppoſe Boleinwnd. This Generai bad bad good
F
a
2 1 2
The Roman Hiſtory. Cap. V.
A. D. Succeſs againſt the Franks in Afia , ', was eſtcem'd
1107. the beſt Officer in the Empire, and is the firſt of taat
Name of whom Honourable Mention is made in the By.
zantine Hiſtory. His Fortune in Illyria anſwer'd the
Reputation he acquir'd in Cilicia : He attack'd Milus,
one of the Cities the Franks had taken, fought the Ar-
my that came to relieve it, routed it, took Hugh and
Richard, two Principal Officers in Bohemund's Army,
Count Pagan, ſeveral other Italian Officers and Sol-
diers, and flew a great Number. He alſo defeated ano-
ther Party of Franks near Aulon, burnt their Ships ;
and cbrain'd other Advantages over Bohemund, which,
with the Want and Diſeaſes thar deſtroy'd bis Men,
humbled the haughty Spirit of this ambitious Prince,
Bohe who was at laſt ſo ſurrounded by the Victorious Ro-
mund
mans, that he could not fir out of his Camp; and
begs Peace. what was a Mortification to him worſe than Death,
he was forc'd to ſend to the Governor of Duras, and
beg a Peace, to ſave the Remainders of his Army. A-
lexius, the Son of Iſaac, ſent Word to the Emperor of
Bohemund s Demands, or rather Peririon; and the Ro-
mans having been harraſs’d with their late Fatigues, as
well as the Franks, a Peace was concluded oni Terms
as acceptable to Bobemund in his preſent Circumſtances,
as honourable to the Emperor. The Submiſſion he
was oblig'd to make, was a Glorious Triumph to Alex.
ius, who had ſo often been infulted and diſgrac'd by
him; and it could not but be a Joyful Sight to the
Romans, to ſee that Army ſuing for Leave to retire,
who when they landed threatend the whole Empire
with Blood and Ruin. Had they nor Reaſon to cry
out, 'Tis the Lord's doing, and 'tis marvellous in our
Eyes, and to lift up their Offerings of Praife to the
Great God, who ſcatters the Proud in the Imagination
of their Hearts. The Articles of an Accommodation
being ſworn to by the Emperor and the Prince of in.
ticch, Alexius honour'd him with the Title of Sebaſtus
And dies. or Clar; after which he took his Leave and departed,
loader with Preſents. Comnena 'writes that he return'd
into Italy ; but other Authors with more Probabiliiy
relate, that he went to Antioch, where he died in leſs'
than x Months Time. Neither the Empire, nor any
Omer Country, ſays ſhe could produce a Man to com-
parc
Chap. V.
213
Alexius.
1107.;
pare with him. He had a Majeſtick Look, he was
, A. D.
tall and well ſhap'd, and his Body, like his Soul, a-
bove the Size of other Men; when the had worn
our all ber Eloquence in Praiſe of his Rare Qualities,
She ſums up all with an Encomium, which, conſidering
the high Opinion ſhe had of her father's Merit, the
thought was the greateſt Panegyrick ſhe could write
upon him, that he was inferior to none but Alexius,
in Dignity, Fortune, Wiſdom, and Eloquence. We
muſt inform the Reader, that me liad not always ſuch
good Words for him : In the Couſe of the War, Ty-
rant, Barbarian, and Murderer, were ſome of the
Names the beſtow'd upon him ; for as ſhe was very
kind to her Friends, ſo ſhe was ſevere to her Enemies,
and equally partial for or againſt boab.
Bohemund, by the Agreement he made with Alexius,
had oblig'd himſelf to deliver up all the Towns he with-
held from him in Afia; but Tancred, who claim'd the
Sovereignty of Antioch, as Heir to his Unkle, did not
tbink himſelf oblig'd by thoſe Articles ; and Alexius,
as much as he was pleas'd with them, got nothing by
them, but the clearing Illyria of the Franks, whom he
might caſily have driven out of his Dominions, with
out paying ſo much for it as he did.
This War being ſo happily concluded, the Emperor
began to aſſert the Majeſty of the Roman Empire in the
Eaſt, to make Expeditions againſt the Barbarians, re-
pair and people Cities, and to give his Subjects a faint
Idea of Old Times. He gave Filocalus an Army, and
order'd him to paſs over into Ionia, recommending to
him to make uſe of Policy rather than Force in his Un-
dertakings; for Alexius had always ſucceeded more by
Artifice than Arms, and the Condition of the Roman
Empire requir’d her Generals to be ſparing of her
Soldiers, who were not eaſily rais'd, nor paid with
Eaſe Filocalus croſſing the Straights, arriv'd at En-
dromitum, an Ancient Town, formerly Populous and
Flouriſhing, but deftroy'd in the Vars with Tzacas :
Filocalus rebuilt it, peopled it with the neighbouring
Peaſants, and fortify'd it. Hearing the Turks were
gathering together about Lampus, he ſent a Derach-
ment thither, who cut the Barbarians to Pieces, and
were {o cțuel in their Succeſs, that they merder'd Wo.
3
anering
:
1
*
214
The Roman Hiſtory: Chap. V.
A. D. mea, and boil'd little Children; Barbarities, which
1107. the Turks, the leſs barbarous Nation of the two, had
not been guilty of in the Courſe of the Wars between
them and the Romans. Afan, Governor of Cappadocia,
enrag'd at the Cruelties of the Chriſtians, defir'd Help
of the Infidel Princes, to revenge themſelves on the
Grecks, and with an Army of fourſcore thouſand Men
march'd againſt Philadelphia, where Filocalus was with
his Forces. Afan inveſted the City, and ſtay'd three
Days before it. All this while the Romans, by Filoca-
{us's Order, never ſally'd out, or appeard on the
Walls, or made the leaſt Noiſe. Aſan believing they
had neither Strength nor Courage enough to make Sal.
lies, divided his Army, and ſent ten thouſand Men to
Celbiana, another Parry towards Smyrna and Nymo
pheas, another towards Cliara and Pergamus, ordering
them to ravage the Country every where in their
March : Himſelf follow'd one of theſe Parties by flow
Marches with the reſt of his Forces. Filocalus hearing
the Turks were divided, ſent our Parties to fall upon
them: The firſt Body they met wirh, was that marche
ing to Celbiana, whom they entirely defeared, and re-
leas'd the Captives they had taken. They then pur-
ſü'd the Party that was going to Smyrna, fought them,
routed them, and killd mort of them; thoſe thač
eſcap'd were driven into the Meander, and drown'd.
The RO-
Encourag'd by theſe Succeffes, they endeavourd to
mans ſuc- find out the other Turks ; but the Barbarians hearing of
ceſsfull d- the Rout of their Fellows, made ſuch hafte from them,
gainſt the that they could not overtake them.
Turks.
The Emperor, to extend his Conqueſts in Afia, fent
Ambaſſadors to Tancred to require him to deliver up
Antioch, perſuant to the Agreement (worn to between
him and Bohemund. Tancred inſtead of performing
the Articles of the Treaty, inſulted the Roman Ambal-
ſadors, and talk'd of their Arms as contenipribly as if
their Soldiers were the pooreſt Wretches upon Earth.
Alexius was in a violent Paſſion to be ſo affronted, and
as he thought, abasid by him ; and burning to be rea
vengid on Tancred, be calld a General Council of all
bis Officers and Miniſters, to confule how he might
effect it. Theſe, as well Soldiers as Senators, advis'd
him to send Ambaſadors to Baldmin, King of Jeruſa-
lemn,
Chap. V.
Alexius.
215
A. D.
11.9
lem, who had ſucceeded bis Brother Godfry of Bul-
loigne in that Kingdom, to deGre that he would affift
him to recover Antioch, which the Franks had oblig'd
themſelves by Oarb, and Bohemund particularly in his
lait Treaty to deliver up to him, and which was now
unjuſtly withheld from him by Tancred. Alexius ap-
prov'd of their Advice; and having furniſh d Butumi.
tus with Money ro bribe the French Princes and Offi-
cers who had any power to help or to hurt him, he
ſent him to Jeruſalem, with Inſtructions, if he could
not engage him in the War, to delire him so ftand
Neurer. Butumitus left his Treaſure with Bertrand,
Count of Triply, whoſe Father, the Count of St. Giles,
had been a Friend to the Greek Emperor: He thought
he might truſt the CounĽ with it, and thar 'rwould be
fa fer there than if he carry'd it with him to Jeris
falem, where perhaps he might have no Occaſion for
it, Alexius ordering him not to part with any, unleſs
Baldwin did what he was to deſire of him to do. The
King of Jeruſalem, and the orber Pricces, would by
no means conſent to a War with Tancred, nor promiſe
to be Neuters if the Emperor attack'd him. Butumi.
fus inor being able to make any thing of his Ambaffy,
return'd to Tripoly, where he found Bertrand dead, and
the Government devolv'd to his young Son, who was
under the Guardianſhip of the Bithop, and the Prelate
would not refore the Treaſure Butumitus had entrusted
with Bertrand. Alexius not daring to make War up.
on Tancred, for fear of provoking all the Frunks in the
Eaſt, was forc'd to put up the Affront he had receiv'd
from him, which he purpos'd to revenge on all the
Franks that came in his Way by Sea, where he was
Maiter, and his Fleer which cruiz'd off the Morca,
had Orders to intercept all Ships coming from Italy.
Accordingly the Roman Admiral took four Italian Ver-
fels loaden with Supplies for Baldwin's Army, which
then lay before Tyre.
About this Time Michael, Governor of Acron, #
ſmall Fort, revolted, and affurning Sovereign Power,
ravag'd the Neighbourhood of his Principality ; buc
he was ſoon reduc'd, and his Attempt being as ridiculous
*s inſolent, he was pardon'd, after he had the Terrors
P
:
ល្អ
216
The Roman Hiſtory Cap. V.
A. D. of Death upon him, being ſeverely threaten’d by the
- 1109. Emperor.
Gauras, Governor of Philadelphia, hearing a Party
of Turks was near Celbiana, march'd againſt them,
charg’d and defeated them. The Sultan upon this de-
manded a Peace, which was concluded, but was of no
long Duration. On the Concluſion of the Peace with
the Sultan, Alexius remov'd with his Court to Callipolis,
to be near at Hand to his Fleer, that he might the bet..
ter direct them how to annoy the Franks, againſt whom
he was more exaſperated than againſt the Infidels;
who perceiving he was wholly taken up with his Ma.
ritime Affairs to oppoſe the Weſtern Chriſtians, and
hinder their Commerce with their Friends in the Lee
vant, invaded bis Dominions in Aſia, and oblig'd him,
ill as he was of the Gour, to paſs the Straights, and
make Head againſt them, who had carry'd the Terror
of their Arms to the Walls of Nice, and committed
all inanner of Cruelty and Rapine, to revenge the
jaft barbarous Treatment they had received froin-the
Romans. Alexius's Dittemper ſo diſcompos'd him, that
he could nor ſit on Horſeback, but was drawn in a
Chariot, his Affairs requiring his preſence ; for Camyt-
zus, Governor of Nice, ſallying on the Turks, had
been raken, and his Party cut off. Alexius haftend to
overtake the Enemy, which he did at Acrocus, gave
them Battle, and gain'd the Victory : He alſo gave
them another Defeat, in wbich Camytzus watching his
Opportunity, made bis Eſcape, and was ſent by the
Emperor to Conſtantinople to carry the News of his Suc-
ceffes. When he had clear'd his Territories in Aſia of
the Barbarians , he return'd tô the Imperial City',
where he had not been long before he was oblig'd to
march inco the Weſt with his Army to oppoſe the Coma-
nes, who retir'd on his Approach.
On the Borders of Thrace there were a People inha-
bising the Mountains, who were all Maniche ans, ſo
call d from Manes, the Author of the Herefie, one of
the fouleft that ever infected the Church of Chrift!
They pretended That Manes was the Comforter promis
sn the Goſpel; and held other abominable Tenets, allows
ing themſelves to Wallop in all manner of impurities:
Theſe Municheans were always ready to do any Mil-
chief
Chap. v.
217
Alexius.
ܕ
chief to the Orthodox; and tho' they were Greeks, and A. D.
the Emperor's Subjects, yet they commonly join'd 1109.
with the Scythians and Comanes in their Irruprions. A.
lexius part by Force and part by Arguments prevail'd
with the Chief of them to abjure their Herelie, and
their Example was follow'd by the reſt of that Sect
in thoſe Parts; who afterwards ferv'd for a Barrier to
the Romans againſt the Scythians, with whom they us'd
till then to join
The Emperor's Indiſpoſition continu'd fill, and his
Troubles had ņo End. Sulran Solyman aſſembling all
his Forces, invaded the Empire, and threatend to
1176.
overrun all Afia : But Alexius advancing againſt them
in Perſon, and the Romans having obtain'd rwo or
three conſiderable Advantages over them, the Barbari.
ans retird: For the Turks were ſo diſhearten'd by their
late Dilgraces, that had the Roman Einpire been in a
leſs crazy .Condition, the Infidels might eaſily have
been driven beyond the Tygris, The Sultan, after ſe:
veral other Lofles and Defeats, condeſcended to fue
for a Peace; and to thac End had an Interview with
the Emperor in a Plain between Auguſtopolis and A-
oronium, where a Peace was concluded with
Alexius
lemnity; and then Alexius return'd to Conftantinople. makes
This was his laſt Expedition, and the Remainder of Peace with
his Life was ſpent in Acts of Charity and Religion. the Turks.
He affected to be thought skill'd in Controverfie, and
he had Occaſion enough to exerciſe his Talent ; for the
Church was more troubled with Schiſmis in his Time,
than it had been in an Age before ; ſympathizing in
this with the State, which was full of Diſorder, and his
Reign continually diſturbid with Irruptions, Invaſions,
or Inſurrections. He overcame them all, 'tis true, and
left his Dominions in a ſort of Peace to his Son,
which tho' not firm and laſting was more than the
Romans bad enjoy'd for near forry Years, the Length
of this Emperor's Reign. He was taken ill firſt of a
Cold, and being averſe to taking Phyſick, his Diſtein-
per multiply'd to a Complication of Diſeaſes, under
Which he languiſh'd a Year and half, being ſomerimes
berter, and ſometimes worſe, till at lalt he died on the
i sth of Auguſt, A. D. 18. in the Seventieth Year His Death.
Of biş Age, and Thirty eighth of his Reign,' the
Twelfth
great So-
"
1
!
218
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
M
A. D. Twelfth of Henry the 5th, Emperor of Germany, the
1118. Eighteenth of Henry the iſt, King of England, the
Tenth of Lewis che Burly, King of France, che laſt of
the Reign of Baldwin the rſt, King of Jeruſalem, the
laft of the Pontificate of Pope Pafchal the 2d, and the
Twenty ſecond after the firſt Croiſade.
From this Prince's Actions, which we have extracted
from the belt Authors of his Age, particularly bis Daugh-
ter Anna Comnena, whom we have compar'd with other
Writers, and been very careful how we truſted to her
too far, we may form a Character of him without
giving our ſelves the Trouble to reconcile the Greek and
Fischa Latin Aurbors, who differ ſo much about him. The
rsitar,
Latins ſay, he was Infamous for Treachery and De-
ceit, and will hardly allow him any good Quality ;
whereas, if we could believe his Daughrer, he had nos
one bad one. There never was an Author, who pre-
tended more to Sincerity than this Princeſs; and we
believe there never was an Hiſtorian, who flatter'd a
Man more than ſhe has done her Father, whom ſhe would
have Deify'd, had he wrote in thoſe Days when Dei-
fying was in Fahion among the Romans. She is doubr-
ful of the Cenſures that would be paſt upon her for her
Ann.com.Eternal Declamations in Praiſe of Alexius. Perhaps,
Antiters ſays Me, The Reader may imagine I have ſin’d againſt
bin. the Truth of Hiſtory in Obedience to Nature, and to praiſe
my Father ; but I ſwear I have not talk'd go of him, out
of any Deſign to Compliment him: On the contrary, I
have offended the Piety of a Daughter, to pay Homage to
Truth, whom I love better than him, as much as I love
him. And yet this very fincere Hiſtorian, this Slave
to Truth, has not tranſmitted one Vice, one Failing in
him to Poſterity, tho' he had ſo many, we can hardly
tell which was Predominant in him, Vice or Virtue.
He was, it muſt be confeſs'd by his Enemies, Brave,
Ambitious, Liberal and Merciful. He was at the
ſame time Falſe, a Differnbler towards God and Man;
one, who according to Nicct as, a Greek Hiſtorian, be-
liev'd that Wiſdain confifted chiefly in concealing his
Sentiments, and never by his good will ſpoke what he
meant. His Politicks preſerv'd his Dominions; he was
certainly the beſt States-man in his Empire, and we
tave ſeen how he has ſubdu'd thoſe Enemies by bis
Policy,
A
Chap. V.
219
Alexius.
cus'do
Policy, which his Power could never have ſubdu'd. A. D.
As to his Behaviour in referenee to the Cruſade, he is 1118
in a great Meaſure to be jutify'd for being jealous of His Beha-
thoſe Princes who had in their Company Bchemund, viour to
the Pil-
the greateſt Enemy he had in the World, and had he
not been with them, we cannor Tee how the Latinsgrims exo
could expect any Favour from the Greeks, whom they
treatedas Schiſmaticks, and by whom they were look'd
upon to be the moít Flagitious Hereticks in the World,
On the whole, we may venture to give our Opinion
of Alexius Comnenus, that had there been many more
ſuch Princes in the Succeſſion of the Eafern Empire,
it had not ſo eaſily been enſlav'd by the Barbarians, as
it was in the future Reigns. He had three Sons. Fobn,
Andronicus and Iſaac, and four Drugbrers, Anna, Ma-
ria, Eudoxia and Theodora, by his Wife Irene Ducas.
Anna Comnena was the Eldeſt of all his Children; and
one may perceive by her Writings, me had a fawning
engaging way with her, which could not fail of grin-
ing the Affections of her Mother to her first Born.
The Empreſs was ſo fond of her, that ſhe was very Anna
importunate with her Husband to declare Nicephorus Comnes
Bugennius, the Grandſon of the Ulurper of that Name, na's in-
who had Marry'd the Princeſs Ann, his Succeffor. A- trigues to
lexius lov'd his Eldeſt Son John above all his Sons and get the Em-
Daughters, and refifted his Wife's Importunities with pire for her
great Reſolucion
She repreſented her Son John as a
Husband
Stupid, Bruriſh Youth and highly extold the Eloquence Nicepho
and Learning of Nicephorus, which, the faid, contri-rus Bry-
ennius.
bute as much to the happy Government of a State, as to
the good conduct of i Man's private Life. Alexius
blam'd her for ſuffering her Fondneſs of her Daughter
ro prevail over her Love to Justice and her Son. Vould
not the World, ſaid he, take me to be a Madman, if,
after having my ſelf obtain'd the Crown by unlawfal means,
I ſhould put it on the Head of a Stranger rather than my own
Son's? When he was jut expiring in his Palace of Miin-
gana, John, his Eldest Son, knowing what an Averſion his
Mother had to him, and Her and his Siſter Ann's De-
signs against his Succeſſion, conſulted with his Brother
Ifaac and his other Relations, how to countermine their
Plots, and they advis'd him to ſeize on the Sovereign
Power immediately, even while his Facher was yer
living
220
The Roman Hiſtory. Cap. V.
1
A..D living. Accordingly he went to his Bed-lide, and ſtoop.
1118. ing down as if he intended to embrace bim, took the
Ring that had the Imperial Signet on it off his Finger,
'cis ſuppos'd with Alexius's Conſent, affembild bis
Friends together, mounted on Horſeback, rode to the
Hypodrome and was Proclaim'd Emperor. Irene ran to
her Husband to Complain of it, but he only Ggh'd and
lifted up his Hands to Heaven to beg Mercy for bis
Sins, and taking no notice of her, feem'd to be buſię
in preparing for the laſt Moment wbich was approach.
ing, He turn'd about and look'd frowningly upon her,
as if he would chide her for diſturbing his Devotions,
at which ſhe was ſo enrag'd, that me cry'd out, Ab!
Thou Perfidious Husband ! (for he had given her good
Words lately, when ſhe talk'd to him of Bryennius)
Thy Tongue ever bely'd tby Heart, and thou canſt not leave
Diſſembling, even in the Hour of Death. The Guards
were engag'd by the Emprefs, and refus'd to open the
Gates of the Palace to Fobn, after his Father's Death;
upon which he broke them open, and enter'd it, attend.
od by a Croud of People of all Conditions. The Em,
preſs and Anne were almoſt deſperate,ro. ſee all their De.
Tigns fruſtrated. Irene ſent to invite her Son to affiſt at
che Solemnity of his Father's Funeral, in hopes that if
the could get hiin out of the Palace, Bryennius and his
Party would ſeize it, and diſpute the Poffeffion of it
with him, before his Power was well ſettled, John mi.
ítruſting their Deſigns would not ſtir, but fent his Relati-
ons to attend his Father's Corps to its Interment. He
enter'd on the Adminiſtration of Affairs, and the Empreſs
and Anna Comnena, her ambitious Daughter, were force
zo ſubmit to bis Empire,
A
CHAR
/
Chap. VỊ.
221
Calo Johannes
A. Do
I11
CH A P. VI.
From the Death of Alexius Comne
nụs, to the Expulſion of the Greek
Emperors out of Conſtantirtople by
the Weſtern Chriſtians.
Containing the Space of Eighty Six Years.
Calo Johannes
1
WE have ſhewn in the laſt Chapter, how Foln pre
venied all the Machinations of his Mother and
Siſter, and ſtep'd over them into the Imperial Throne,
to the terrible Mortification of the two Princeffes. And
as Pathetically as Anna Comnena deſcribes her Mother's
and her own Sorrow for the Emperor Alexius's Death,
ſhe cannot help diſcovering that the loſs of the Sovereigo
Power had a great Share in their Affliction, as ſhe ſays
her ſelf. And without doubt 'twas an extream Aggra-
dation of my Mother's Grief, to be depriv'd of the so-
vereign Authority, together with her Husband, and pullid
down from her Throne to be reduc'd to a private State of
Life. When ſhe thought of this, the abandon d her felf
entirely to her Sorrow, and I my ſelf forgetting all my Phi-
loſophy, began to pour forth a Flood of Tears, to tear my
Hair and beat my Breaſts. Their Diſappointinent was
fo grievous, that it was not to be born. Anna particu-
larly, when the Tempeſt of her Paffion was over, con-
fider'd calmly how the might recover the Sovereignty,
Anna
and her Contrivances gave Birth to a Plot, at which
Comnena
Nature ſtarts to reflect apon it, that a Princeſs of her
conſpires de
Senſe and Learning Mhould be ſo corrupted by Ambiti.guinſt ber
G., as to conſent to the Murder of a Brother, whoſe Brutherike
Virates Emperor
A
222
The Roman Hiffaxy. Chap. VÍ.
vy Seal.
I
A.D. Virtues render'd him worthy the Dignity to which he
1118aſcended by the Right of Inheritance to his Father's
Poffeffions.
The firſt ching he did after he was acknowledg d Em
peror by the Senate, and Crown'd by the Patriarch, was,
to rewardehole of his Friends w: o had been inſtrumental
in ſecurirgtbe Jonperial Crown to him His Brother Ifaac,
who had contributed more to his Advancement than a-
ny one eller he honour'd with the Title of Sebaſtoc 4-
tor, a Digniry inzenied by Alexius, to larisfie bis own
Brother I.2c for the loſs of the Empire: 'Twas next im-
mediately below the Einperor; and above Cefar. His
Lord Pri- Coulin John Comnenus, 'Son of his Unkle Iſaac, he
Mafter of
made Paracem menos ; Gregory Taronitus, Protoveſtiary:
the War Gregory Camaterus, Logochete; and his Favourites
drobe. Fohannes Axarchus, Grand Domeitick, or General of
Chancellor. his Forces This Axauchus was by Birth a Perſian,
and was taken Priſoner at the Reduction of Nice. As
lexius lik'd the young Man's Parts and Preſence, and
orderd him to wait on his Son Foon to be thc Compa-
nion of his Studies and Sports. Axauchus having a
great deal of Wit, gain'd the Love and E eem of the
young Prince, and increas'd it daily by his obliging Car-
riage, which, cho' it had nothing in it Forward or In-.
decent, yet he accompany'd all his Actions with ſo be.
coming a Boldneſs, that he had an abſolute Aſcendant
over his Maſter
;
and when he came to the Crown, the
Emperor Fohn declar'd him his Favourite and firit Mix
nifter, which Character, and that of Grand Domeſtick,
elevated him above all the Oficers of the Court ; even
the Princes of the Imperiai Houſes, who were related
at any diſance to them, alighred off their Horfes when
they met him to Salute him. He demean'd himſelf
ſo humbly to his Prince, and ſo friendly to all the World,
that his Favour was as little envy'd as chie Fortune of aó
ny Favourire ever was. He made it bis Buſineſs ro re-
concile the Differences which rofe in the Emperor's Fa.
mily, was ready to ſerve the Nobility to the utmoſt of
his Power, and protected the People in all their Op-
preſſions, ſcattering the Riches he got hy his Master's
Bounty and his own Ofices withi a Liberal Hand a-
mong thoſe that wanted it. Theſe rare Qualities, ſays
Nicetas, gain'd him the Love of all Mankind and hid
the Meaneſs of his Deſcent
1
و وان
Chạp. VÌ.
Calo Johannes
223
Fohn had not. Reign'd quite a Year, when the Con-A. Da
{piracy to advance Nicephorus Bryennius. Anna Comne- 1118.
sie's Husband, was diſcover’d. The Conſpirators had
debauch'd the Emperor's Guards and were to have been
admitted into the Hippodi ome, callid Filapation, where
they intended to have aſſaſſinated him. "The Plot had
certainly taken Effect, had it not been for Bryennius's
Timerouſneſs and Slowneſs in Action, which gave Op-
portunity to thoſe that watch'd after the Safety of the
Emperor's Perſon, to detect it. 'Tis ſaid that his Wife
Anna Comnena, enrag'd at his Weakneſs and Cowardize,
with'd that ſhe had been the Man, and he the Woman.
The Emperor contented himfelf with confiſcating the
Conſpirators Eftates, which however were reſtor'd to
them afterwards. His Siſter Anne, the firft Mover of
the Conſpiracy,- was the firſt to whom he thew'd his
Bounty, and we are told, that Axauchus was the Oc-
caſion of ir. It could not be prov'd that the Empreſs
had any Hand in the Conſpiracy: On the contrary ingi
Pris ſaid the ſhould declare, That they ought not to ſeek
for a new Prince when they had one already, nor to at-
tempt any thing againſt him that is in Poffeffion of the
Sovereignty.
The Emperor finding the Turks inſtead of obſerv.
ing the Treaty they had larely made with Alexius,
invaded his Dominions, took his Towns, and deſtroy'd 11201
his Subjects, ravaging the Province of Phrygia, plunder-
ing and ſpoiling the Country in a moſt deplorable man-
ner, part over into Aſia with a ſtrong Body of Troops, John pufo
which he got together with great Diligence, gave the fes over
Turks Bartle, defeated them, recover'd most of the Cities into Aſia
they had taken, and among the reſt Lacdicka, whoſe againſt
Walls he repair'd, and plac'd a good Governor and the Turks-
Garriſon to prevent irs falling again into the Hands of
the Infidels. In his next Expedicion he cock Sozopolis, 1121.
and ſeveral Places of leſs Note, making uſe of Policy
when his Arms could not prevail, as his Father usd to
do before him.
In the fifth Year of his Reign the Scythians made an
Irruption into Thrace, and cominirred their uſual Wafe.
The Emperor, as foon as he heard of their Invaſion,
put himſelf ar the Head of his Troops, and advanc'd
to give shem Battle : But before he fell upon them, he
ſeat
1122
224
The Roman Hiſtory.
Cap. VÌ:
!
1122.
che Scy.
A. D. fent Ambaſſadors to amuſe them with a Treaty of
Peace, and to gain ſome of their Leaders with richa
Preſents to declare for it. The Ambaſſadors per-
form'd their Negotiation ſo well, that ſome of thein
were for retiring, and ſome for continuing the War.
While they were in this Irreſolution, Fohn fell upon
thêm: The Onſet was rude on both Sides : The Scy-
thians handled their Lances with great Activity and
Succeſs, and the Romans fought like Men who reſolv'd
to conquer or to die. The Emperor accompany'd by
his Guards, ran up and down the Field to ſuccour thoſe
that were moſt diſtreſt; and perceiving his Men be-
gan to be weary, he lifted up his Hands and Eyes to
Heaven, and weeping and fighing implor'd the Divine
Afliſtance, which viſibly appear'd in Anſwer to his
pious Prayer. He felt himſelf invigorated with new
Force, and leading his Men to the Charge with freſh
Éde march-
es againſt barians could not ftand the Shock. The Romans find-
Courage, he ſet them ſuch an Example, that the Bar-
thiants,
ing they gave Ground, renew'd their Attack with the
fights and fame Fury, which turn'd the Fortune of the Day, and
Beats them. gave them a Glorious Victory. A valt Number of
the Barbarians were killd on the Spot, and a Multi-
tude of them taken, to whom he affign'd certain de-
populared Villages for them to inhabit; and they were
ſo charm'd with bis Clemency, that they were very
faithful to him. Some of them, who were not taken
in the Flight, lifted immediately in his Service, and a
few of them that were, the Soldiers fold. The
Émperor erected a Trophy in the Place of Battle, and
inftiruted a Feaſt to be Celebrated Yearly in Comme-
moration of his Triumph.
Tho' the Terror of his Arms was ſpread over the
Eaſt and the North, yer the People in the Weſt, who
had not yet felt the Weight of his Vengeance, defy'd
him in breaking their Treaties. The Triballes, a
People of the Lower Mafia, afterwards call'd Servians,
inſulted the Borders of his Empire, plunder'd the Vil.
lages, and carry'd off a conſiderable Booty. The Em
And the
peror, to chaſtiſe them, eriter'd their Territories, took
Serviárs.
ſeveral Cities, and a great Number of Priſoners; of
whoin part he took into his Army, and part he ſent
-
+
Cliap. VI.
225
Cálo Johannes.
to Bithynia, to inhabit the Country about Nicomedia A.D.
which was then thin of People.
1122.
Theſe thining Actions were ſuch as the Romans had
not ſeert in many Ages: To have ſo many Triumphs
without one Diſgrace, was what the Low Empire bad
not been us'd to: No Wonder then that a Prince of
the preſenç Emperor's Diſpoſition and Fortune became
dear to his people, and terrible to his Enemies.
In his Father's Life-time he had marry'd Irene,
Daughter to Ladiſlaus, and Siſter of Coloman, Kings
of Hungary, by whom he had four Sons and two
Daughters. His eldeſt Son Alexius he honour'd with
the Imperial Robe and the Title of Emperor, but he
did not live to enjoy the Power. Notwithſtanding his
Alliance with the King of Hungary, the Hunns invaded
the Empire in the following Year, pretending to have
receiv'd ſome Injury in their Commerce. The Empe-
ror march'd to Phillopopolis to be ready to oppoſe
them if they mould advance that Way: He fayd
there ſome Time till his Troops were all come up, and
Preparations were made for him to paſs the Danube ;
he rhen drove the Hunns out of his own Dominions, in- He challis
vaded theirs, ſubdod a great Part of the Country, took fes the
Cities, loaded his Men with Plunder, and having fuf- Hungaa
ficiently chalcis'd their Inſolence, gave them Peace, rians.
which all the neighbouring Provinces in the Weſt de-
fir'd of him, and his Friendſhip.
When he had ſettled his Afairs in the Weſt; he rem
folv'd to carry the War into the Eaſt againſt the Inf-
dels, and viſit thoſe Places where the Roman EnGgns
had not been born lince the Reign of the Augufti : He
palt through Bithynia and Paphlagonia, icok Caftomana;
and carry'd the Priſoners with him back to Conſtantine-
ple, where he made his Enery in a kind of Roman Tri-
umph, with which he mingled a Chriftian Procellion
He Trio
in Honour of the Virgin Mirj, whon the Greclis a-
dor'd as much as the Liiting.
umbes
He had not been long there before he heard thartbe
Turks had retaken Caſtomana; upon which Occaſion
he paſt over into Afia, recook the City made himſelf
Mafter of Gangarus, declar'd War with Lei, King of
Armenia, who had ſeiz'd forne Roman Cities on his blues
Bordets, took ſeveral of his Towns, and fubdu'd half huif Ara
Ofurgiaa
226
The Roman Hiſtory. 1
1
Chap. VÌ.
A. D, of his Kingdom. He then march'd to Antioch, and
1132. paid a Viſit to Raymund, Prince of that City, who had
ſucceeded T.incred, and by the Perſuaſions of this Prince
he undertook to ſubdue Aleppo and Serepa: The former
was a Place of so great Importance, that the Sultan
had cran'd it with Men, and ſtrengthen'd it with For.
tifications to ſuch a Degree, that 'twas thought to be
impregnable : Fohn perceiving 'would be impra-
cticable to reduce it with a fatigu'd Ariny, left it, and
iay down before Serepa, which lie took, and deliver'd
it up to Raymund; for he was not of fo narrow a Spi.
rit, ſo jealous, and ſo ſelfiſh as his Father, he bad more
of the Hero in him, and as far as it conſiſted with his
Generoſity, as inuch of the Politician. He refreih'd his
Men a little while at Serepa, and then artack'd Caphar-
da, the Capital of a Great Province, which he fubdu'd,
He invades march'd into Meſopotamia, and made himſelf Maſter of
Meſopota- Iſtria, abandoning it to bis Soldiers to be plunderd,
mia. particularly to the Scythians, who had been very ſer-
viceable to him in thoſe Expeditions. In his Retrear
the Perſians fell upon him, but he receiv'd them ſo
warmly, that they were glad to get off with the Loſs
1133. of two of their Generals. He took Antinch in his
Way, where he was receiv'd with Solemn Proceſſions
and Shours of Joy. He ſtay'd there a few Days, and
then he invaded the Dominions of the Sultan of Ico-
nium, a Town of Lycacnia in Aſia Minor. The Place
was now under the Dominion of a Mahomet an Prince,
who very much diſtreſt the Chriſtians in Syria by his
frequent Inroads into their Territories, and bad lately
made Incurſions into the Empire. Fohn defeared his
Forces, deſtroy'd his Country, and carry'd off a great
Booty, with a Multitude of Priſoners' and Horſes.
1734. Such was
Such was the End of Three Glorious Campaigns
which the Emperor made in Aſia, where the Infidels
were ſo afraid of hin, that his Brother Ifaac meditating
a Revolt, and going up and down from one Court to
The Turks another to deſire Prorection and Affiltance,
are afraid
not one of
the Turkiſha Princes would countenance him, or pro-
mife ro fapport him. Nicetas, whom we follow in
this Hiſtory, does not tell us what was the Occaſion
of this Prince's Diſcontent. We have mewn how rea-
dy he was in the Beginning of his Reign to ſerve his
Brother,
Chap. VI.
227
Calo Johannes
Brother, and lately he had left the Empire, and gone A. D.
over to the Turks to engage them in his Intereſts; bue 11346
perceiving that the Infidels, eſpecially the Sultan of
Iconium, on whoſe Afiftance he moſt depended,
would no venture to provoke his Brother's Victorious
Arms, he repented of his Deſertion, and reſuly'd to
throw himſelf on the Emperor's Mercy; who receiv'd
him as a kind Brother would have done a Relacion ſo
near, and whom he had once lov'd ſo tenderly, em-
brac'd him, pardon'd his Fault, honour'd and truſed
him as much as if he had never offended. John re-
turning to Conſtantinople, was welcom'd with Acclama-
His Cleo
tions of Joy for the double Victory he had gain'd over
his Enemies in the Conqueſt of ſo many Ciries and mency.
Countries, and over his Paſſions in forgiving his Bro-
ther's Crime ſo eaſily.
The Turks did not long ſuffer him to enjoy the Plea-
fures of a Court, which were not ſo agreeable to him
as the Glory of a fortunate Campaign, they made In-
curſions into the Empire as far as the River Sangarus.
He no ſooner heard of it bur he croſs'd the Straights,
11376
and drew his Forces together to repell them. The Ru-
mour of his Approach was now as good as an Army.
The Infidels hearing he was advancing againit them,
retir'd out of his Dominiors: After which John buſy'd
himſelf for ſome Months in repairing and enlarging the
Fortifications of the Cities that lay moit expos’d to
their Inſults.
Thus we ſee he was always in Action, which fo fa-
tigu'd his Men, that they began to murmur ; but he
kept them in their Obedience by the Majeſty of his
Prelence, and the Severity of his Diſcipline ſaying,
He would have Soldiers whoſe belt Quality Mhould be
Obedience, and who ſhould never be weary of his Sera
vice. The Emperor departed from Lopadion in the
Spring following, to reduce Conſtantine Gauras, who
had ſeiżd Trebizond, and oppoſe Mahomet, who had
fubdu'd Iberia and moſt of the Cities in Melopotamia .
He could not make much haite for want of Proviſions :
By this njeans he was overtaken by the Winter, and
the Seaſon being extreamly cold, it incommoded his
Men as much as the Scarcity of Neceries, and
killd moſt of their Horſes. The Invida's knew the
Dino
1
228
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
!
A.D. Diſadvantages they labour'd under, and would fres
$137. quently appear to skirmiſh with the Romans, who were
forc'd to ſuffer their Inſults for want of Horſes to pure
fue them. John ſeeing the Difficulties he had to en-
counter with, took his Draught-Horſes, and mounted
his Soldiers upon them, who charg'd the Barbarians
the next Time they appear'd with ſo much Bravery,
that they gave them no more Diſturbance. " Manuel,
the Emperor's youngeſt Son, ruth'd into the midſt of
the Infidels, and the Romans, to reſcue him out of the
Danger he was in, did Wonders. John commended
his Valour publickly, but privately reprov'd him for
fighting without his Order, and with more Raſhneſs
than Courage. The Emperor finding his Forces were
# #138. Aufht with Succeſs, march'd againt Neo Cæfaria, the
Capital of Cappadocia, which he was very likely to have
taken, had nor John, the Son of Iſaac, his Brother, de.
ferred to the Tinks at the very Inſtant when he was
about to give them Battle, which had he got, the
Town muſt have fallo into his Hands The Reaſon
of his Nephew's Defertion was an Affront he fancy'd
he had receiv'd fronı his Unkle, who had commanded
him to give his Horſe to an Italian Cavalier, whom
he ſaw withour one : The Prince had ſeveral in the
Camp, yet he reſented it fo highly, that he refus’d to
obey the Emperor's Command, challenging the Cava-
lier to fight him, ſaying, If he could beat him he
thould have his Horſe, and not elſe. The Emperor
perſiſting in his Order to him to give his Horſe to the
Italian he was forc'd ro ſubunit, alighted, arid mount-
ed another, upon which he gillop'd, with his Lance
in his Ret, towards the Turks; but when he came
near them, he put it upon his Shoulder, took off his
Head.piece, and embrac'd their Party. The Infidels
rejoyc'd to have their Army ſtrengthend' by a Perſon
of his Quality; and the young Prince changing his Re-
Igien, marry'ů a Turkija Laily in Iconium, where he
ferried, and never afterwards return'd to the Roman
Court. The Emperor was very much concern'd at ſo
farnt and extraordinary an Accident, and nor doubting
of his informing the Barbarians of the ill Condition his
Troops were in; he gave over his Deliga on the Sul-
tans, Ariny, and the City of Neo Caefarea, drawing of
bis
Chap. VI.
229
Calo Johannes.
yn ans.
his Men with as much Secrecy as pomible, and yet A.D.
not ſo ſecretly but that the Turks knew of his Retrear, 1138.
and fell upon his Rear, on which they did confidera-
ble Execution : However he recover'd the Sea Coalis,
and there he was ſafe. After ſo many Labours of Bo-
dy and Mind, be return'd to Conſtantinople co Quar-
ters of Refreſhment, which both himſelf and his Sol-
diers were in great need of.
The next Summer he paſt over into Aſia again, and 1139;
reſided ſome Time ar Attalia in Phrygia, to obſerve
the Motions of the Barbarians, and reduce the Illands
in the Palus Paguſianus, the which by a long Com-
merce with the Turks had learnt their Manners and
Religion, and ſubmitted to their Government. John
sent to them to return to their Obedience to the Ro-
The Illanders thinking themſelves ſafe in their
Ditch which ſurrounded them, defy d him, railid
at him, and treated his Meſſengers very rudely. The
Emperor, to chaſtiſe their Inſolence, cover'd the Palus
with Veſſels, mais'd Machines againſt the Inlands, and
in the End made himſelf Maſter of them all, thougla
not withour Trouble and Loſs.
About this Time Alexius, his eldeſt son, and Andro-
nicus, his ſecond, both died in the Flower of their
Age, to the unſpeakable Griet of the Imperial Court.
And now the Emperor's Fortune ſeem'd at a ſtand, or
father to decline : She had done enough for an E3-.
pire whom in a few Years he intended to abandon to
Slavery ; and had the follow'd him much longer wicha
Victories, that evil Hour had not come upon her lo
foon.
John did not ſtay at Conſtantinople to nourn the Loſs
of his two Sons, whom he tenderly lovd, nor ſpent
his Time in unprofitable Tears, nor neglected his Pie-
parations for War, which he carryil on with his uſual
Diligence and Warintii ; but hiding his Grief so the
utmoſt of his Power, he march'd through Iwia into
Syria, giving out that he was directing his Courſe to
Arinenia, to ſetole the Affling of choſe Paris, whicho
were in Diſorder: His truc Delign however was on?
Antioch, which he thought to ha e ſurpris'd; bar find
ing the Citizens prepar'd for a vigorous Defence, he
deſpair'd of ſubduing it 'by open Forge, ſo he aban,
san'd
1
230
The Roman Hiſtory
Chap. VI.
!
be to AS
A. D. don'd the Suburbs to be pillag'd by his Soldiers, and
1996. march'd into Cilicia, where he encampt in a Valley
between two Hills, calld the Crows Neſts; the Coun-
try inviting him to divert himſelf with the Sports of the
Fields. As he was Hunting, he met with a Wild
Boar, and thruſt his Spear into his Body; the Beaſt
feeling himſelf goard, bore forward upon the Weapon
He is
with all his Strength, and the Emperor holding it in
wounded
his Hand, the Boar forc'd it back on a poiſond Arrow,
by in. Ai
cident as
which hang in a Quiver at his Back, and wounded him
in the Skin of his Hand between his fourth and his
Hunting
little Finger ; the Poiſon ftruck to his Heart, and he
ſoon after died of that Wound, which he ar firſt ſlight-
ed, went to his Tenr, taking little Notice of it, ſupp'd
chearfully, and flept well the Night after the Accident
befell him. The next Day his Hand was mightily
ſwolln and enflamd; he then fent for his Surgeons,
who could not by all their Skiil put a Stop to the In-
flammation, which paſt from one Finger to another,
thence to his Wriſt, thence to his Elbow, from
thence to his Arm, with ſuch Malignity, that both he
and his Surgeons deſpair'd of his Life, unleſs he would
have it cut off, which Operation he would not conſent
to. On Eaſter Day he receiv'd the Sacrament, and ar
the Hour he us'd to ſup he order'd every Body ſhould
be adınitted into his preſence to deliver their Petitions ;
he did the ſame the next Day, by the Advice of Ax.
auchus, the Grand Domeſtick, treated bis Chief Officers
with the Meat from his own Table, and deliberated
with them about the Choice of a Succeſſor: He prem
fenred his youngeſt Son Minuel to them, and in the
Hearing of his Relations, Friends, Officers, and all
the Perſons of Quality in his Camp, he ſpoke thus,
His speech Wien I enter'd Syria I was in Hopes of much better 'Suc-
at his
Death,
ces than you fee we have met with ; I aim'd at carrying
che Terror of niy Aims beyond the Borders of the Eu-
dhiares, to drive the Infidels out of Cilicia, and to viſit
the Ha'y Land; but God has declar'd himſelf againſt my
Dejans. I was born the Son of an Emperor, I ſucceeded
my Father, and have left noihing of that be left me. I
pray God to give you a Prince when I am in my Grave,
mpho may not prey upon his People, nor by his Manners be-
lie bis Tirie of Pither of bis Country, nor plunge himſelf
42
1
Chap. VI.
Calo Johannes
23!
(
in Luxury and Idleneſs, nor ſtay in his Palace immoved. A. D.
ble, as if he was a Statue, or Picture plac'd there only 1139.
for Show. Since my End draws nigh, I am oblig'd to
talk to you of a Succeſor: I came to the Empire by
Right of Succeſſion, and I confeſs Nature ſeems to favour
the eldeſt son always in that Claim : But God does not
Always guide himſelf by that Rule. Iſaac wds Iſmael's
younger Brother; so was Jacob Eſau's, and Mofes Aa-
ron's ; David was the youngeſt of ſeveral Brothers. If
the Right of Elderſhip makes my Son Iſaacs Tisle indif.
putable, there will be no need of comparing him to his
Brother : But ſince I intend to prefer Manuel for his
many Excellent qualities, I ſhall give you my Reaſons,
and leave you to judge of them in the Compariſon between
them. The eldeſt ſeems to me to be ſubject to Anger, a
Paſſion which has ruin'd many Perſons otherwiſe of Ex-
cellent Qualifications. Manuel, beſides that he is Maſter
of all his Brother's good Qualities, is of a fedate Diſpo-
ſition, will, hearken to good Advice, and ſubmit to it :
I, have therefore choſen bim for my Suoceffor, knowing,
Men had rather be govern'd by Clemency than Pemer i If
you conſider his Virtues, you will acknowledge the Crown
I give him is due to bis Merit. The Emperor eclarg‘d Nicetas.
on the ſeveral Parts of his Speech, which is very long
in the Original, but we have ſhorten'd ir, that we may Declares
mot be too tedious. The whole Aſſembly approv'd of his young-
his Choice, as if they had nam'd him themſelves; and eſt son
the Emperor turning to the young Prince, gave him Manuel
Inſtructions how to demean himſelf in the high Stations Suicfy
to which he was abour to be advanc'd. Then the Ar.
jor.
my ſalured him Emperor, and the Officers took an
Oath of Fidelity to him. This Preference of Manuel
to Iſaac was owing to the Counſels and Conduct of
the Grand Domeſtick, who obſerving the People were
generally averſe to Iſaac, procur'd the Advancement
of Manuel, to prevent the ambitious Deligns of ſuch as
preſuming on their Relation to the Imperial Family,
had caſt their Eyes already on the Throne, in which
ihey thought Ifaac, whole Righr it was by Succellion,
would not be able to maintain himſelf long. Zobn Manuel
ſurviv'd the Proclamation of his Son two or three Days, proci!
and then departed this Life on the Fighth of April, in Emperora
she aşth Year of his Reign, the Fifth of Conrude the
Third,
2:4
)
.
.
ร
.
232
The Roman Hiſtory,
Chap. VI.
A. D. Third, Emperor of Germany, the Seventh of Stephen,
1143: King of England, "the Eighth of Lewis the Seventh,
King of France, and the Laſt of Pope Innocent the Sea
cond, A. D. 1148.
The Character of this Prince is ſo well drawn by
Nicetas, that we cannot oblige the Reader more than
John dies.
to give it in his own Words. He govern’d the Empire
Flis Cha: wiſely, and led "Holy Life, free from any manner of In-
viller.
temperance or Debauchery : He affected to appear Magni.
ficent in his frequent Donations to the People, and in his
Buildings, particularly of Churches : His reigning Pal-
fion was his Defire of Glory, and to render his Name im-
mortal: He delighted in. Neatneſs and Decency in all
Things, and was lo exact in his own Dreſs, that he
minded even the cutting of his Hair, and the Shape of
bis Shoes : Hc baniſht all licentious or unprofitable Dif-
four ſé out of his Court, und ſet his Subjects an Example
of Frugality and Virtue in his Way of Living, which was
worthy their Imitation; not that he did not sometimes
allop himſelf innocent Pleaſures or Entertainments, or
mas moroſe in bis Temper; be loyd Pleaſures and Sports
when the important Affairs of the State would permit
bim to divert himſelf: In all his Reign he never puniſiat
any Min witli Death or any Corporal Puniſoment :. He
was lookt upon as the Ornament of the Cómnenian Fan
mily, equalling the beft, and ſurpaſſing moſt of his Prede-
ceffors.
Manuel.
>
A
As
;
away Axauclus to Conftantinople with Letters to
the Senare and Clergy, promiſing thein Liberal Dona
tions if they would not join with his Brother Ifaac,
whom the new Emperor order'd to be ſeiz'd,
and four up in a Monaſtery. Axauchus' made
ai postible Hafte to get there before Ifaac had
Beard of bis Father's Death, that he might fc-
cure the Imperial Treaſures and Ornaments, which he
feared Iſaac would lay his hands upon, as belonging to
him. The Grand Domeſtick ſaspriz'd Ifaac, and put
hica
Chap. VI.
233
Manuel.
1
him into a Monaſtery, dedicated to the Moſt High, A.D.
which the Emperor Fohn had built. Axauchus having 1143.
fecur'd his Perſon, and preſented the Letrers to the
Clergy and Senate, wherein Manuel had made them
ſuch large Promiſes ; by this means fatisfy'd both
the One and the other, and procur'd the new Empe-
ror to be proclaim'd in the Imperial City, with the ge-
neral Approbation of the Romans.
All things being prepar'd for Manuel's reception, he
came to Conſtantinople, and made his Entry with great
Magnificence, the People welcoming him with accla,
mations of joy, conceiving Hopes that he would tread
in his Fathers Steps; his Actions hitherto promiſing, that
his Reign would be happy to Himſelf and his Subjects :
Sometime after he was Crown'd by the Patriarch, at
which Ceremony his Brother Ifaac, to whom he had
larely been reconcil'd, affifted.
The Turks taking hold of the opportunity of the Em-
peror's abfence, ravag'd the Eaſtern Provinces : Manu-
el paft into Afia to oppoſe them; the Infidels retir'd at
his approach, and the Emperor having provided for the
{afety of the Cities which they threarned moſt, return'd
to Constantinople, from whence he fent Fohn and Andro-
nicus the Sons of Conteſtophanus, who had marry'd his
Aunt, to aſſiſt the Cilicians, to whom Raymund, Prince
of Antioch, had been troubleſome.
The Emperor, in the firſt year of his Reign, marry'd
Bertha, Siffer to Conrade the 3d, Emperor of Germany; a
Princeſs who neglected the ourward Ornaments of the
Body, to adorn her mind with Knowledge, and all Mo-
ral and Chriſtian Virrues ; but Manuel, who lov'd Gai.
ty and Gailantry, was not pleas d with her Humour and
Diſpoſition. His diliking grew to a diſguſt, and giving
too much way to his 'Paſſions, he became enamour'd of
his own Niece Theodora, the Daughter of Andronicus,
with whom he maintain'd an unlawful Commerce; and
this was the firſt Error he made from the right Paths in
which he began to walk; however, his Debauchery
did not yet hinder his applying bimſelf afſiduouſly to the
adminiſtration of the Publick Affairs. He for a while,
ſeemd to abhor the ways of ſome of his Predeceffors,
who enrich'd themſelves with the Wealth of their people,
rais'd by unjuſt methods. He was very Affable and
Merci
i.
--
234
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
Dans.
A.D. Merciful, but it did not laſt long; his Generoſity turned
1143. to Avarice; and his Affability to Tyranny: He us'd
Manuel his Power Arbitrarily, and treated his Subjects like
loſes the Slaves, inſtead of governing them as a free people.
Affections
In the Fourth year of his Reign, Conrade the German
of the Ro-Emperor, and Lewis the VII King of France, who had
Tke feoond
both undertaken the defence of the Holy Land, ſent
Grufade.
Ambaſſadors to Manuel, to deſire paſſage through his
1147.
Dominions for the mighty Armies they were marching
into the Eaſt; and that they might be ſupply'd with
Proviſions for their Mony. Manuel was very civil to
the Ambaſſadors, ſeem'd to admire the Piety of their
Maſters and promis'd them Supplies of Proviſions for
Man and Beaſt, on Condition the Franks committed no
Act of Hoftility in his Dominions ; accordingly he or-
der'd all ſorts of Proviſions to be bought up; yer di-
itruſting the good Intentions of the Weſtern Chriſtians,
That they were Wolves in Sheeps Cloathing, he held a
Council of his Chief Officers, and told them, That there
was a formidable Army about to paſs through his Terri.
tories, whoſe Hearts were of Iron, and their Eyes fparkled
Fire, and made no more of Spilling Mens Blood, than o.
thers do to spill a drop of Water: That they were Lions
diſguis'd like Foxes; and that they ought to be on their
Manuel Guard. His Council being allarm'd at his Speech,
Sets his were of Opinion, that the Army ſhould be got together,
Subjects a- to obſerve theſe dreadful Pilgrims ; Money and Men
gainft the were rais'd for this purpoſe, and Preparations made as
Weſtern
if they were threarned with an irruption of Barbarians
Chriſtians and Infidels. He pofted part of his Troops on the
Frontiers, to prevent the German Straglers, in their
Rear, to rob his Subjects in their March thro' his Do.
minions, ordering them to follow them in their Paſſage.
The Germans came firſt, and marchd quietly till
they arriv'd at Philli popolis, where they had like to
have come to Blows with the Romans, had nor Michael
the Biſhop prevaild with Conrade to appeaſe the Tu-
mult wich his Authority. At Adrianople one of his
Relations was left fick, whom the Romans murder'd
when he was gone. Conrade hearing of it, command-
ed Frederick, his Nephew, to revenge the German
Prince's Death. Frederick burnt the Monaſtery where
he was left, and the Monks in it, and the Greeks and
Germans
Chap. Vĩ.
235
Manuel.
Germans were again going to Blows; but the Biſhop A.D.
of Philipopolis once more prevented it by his inter: 1147.
ceeding with the Emperor Conrade, to draw off his Sol-
diers. They then march'd forward to the Banks of
the Melas, where they encampt. While they ſtay'd
there it rain'd ſo violently, that the River overflow'd
with a mighty Deluge, which ſwept away Men, Horſes,
Mules, Armour, and Baggage. The German Empe-
ror, whoſe Pride was not to be humbled before, and
who on the Romans defiring him to paſs the Straights,
ſaid, He would do it when he pleas’d, was glad now to
paſs the Hellefpont as faft as he could, and thought
himſelf well usd by the Greeks in that they did not at-
tack him when he was almoſt ruin'd by the Inunda.
tion of the Melas. 'Manuel, as we have elſewhere re-
lared, had marry'd his Sifter, and was therefore a little
more friendly to the Germans than he was to the French,
who fellow'd them; be order'd Proviſions to be got ready
for them, bur privately commanded his Soldiers to cut
what Straglers they pickt up to Pieces : And the In-
habitants of the Cities where they were to have their
Proviſions, would not let them ſee what they had for their Cru
their Money : They kept their Gates ſhut, and drew elty to
up their Money firſt in Baskets, which they let down them in
by Ropes from the Walls, and after they had their their
Money, they gave them what they pleas'd; ſometimes Marche
they took their Money, and then laught at them in
Return, and ſometimes they ſold them Bread made of
Meal work'd up with Lime, which the hungry Soldiers
eating greedily, it 'threw them into Diſeaſes,
carry'd off a great Part of them. The French cry'd
aloud to Heaven for Vengeance on the perfidious Their Treto
Greeks, who defy'd the Eternal Juſtice, and continu'd chery.
their inhumane Treatment of the poor Pilgrims. 'Tis
not probable that they durft have done it without the
Emperor's Order. though this is not prov'd upon him ;
'cis certain he order'd falſe Money to be coin'd, to be
paid to thoſe Weſtern Chriſtians that ſold any thing to
the Greeks. In a Word, ſays my Author Nicetas, a
Greek, who was Secretary to this Emperor, the reis no
Miſchief which he did not deviſe, or cauſe to be devis'd.
againſt them, that their Example might ſerve for an
Eternal Monument to their Pofterity, not to put Foot
pithin
that
1
936
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VỊ.
A.D. within the Greek Territories. He wroré Letters to the
147. Sultan of Iconium, to fall upon them, gave him an Ac.
count of their Strength, and as much as he knew of
Manuel their Deſigns. The Infidels, purſuant to the Advice
informs the they had receiv'd from the Greeks, diſputed with them
Turks of the Paſſage of the River Meander : However, Conrade
the Chri- having encourag'd his Soldiers to behave themſelves
ftians
like Men, like the Champions of the Croſs of Christ
,
Strength.
Jeap'd his Horſe into the River, and Swam over. The
Germans animated by fo Heroick an Action, follow'd
They De- his Example, attack'd the Barbarians, routed them,
feat the and kill'd a prodigious Number, which opend them a
Infidels. free Paſſage to the Holy City.
The Treachery of the Greeks ſet all the Weſtern
114.8. Princes againſt them, and Roger, King of Sicily, of the
Norman Race, being deſcended of Roger, Brother of
Robert Guichard, invaded the Ifand of Corfou, took it,
ravag'd Acarnania and Æcolia, took Corinth, and car-
ry'd off a Booty of great Value Manuel equip'd a
Fleet of 1000 Ships, and gave the Command of it to
Conteſtopbanes, to recover the Illand of Corfou. But
the Romans could not make a Deſcent, the Enemy had
guarded the Coaſts, and fortify'd them ſo well. Conte.
ftophanes alſo dy'd in this Expedition, which being Un-
fuccefsful, Axauchus undertook to reduce the Ille. He
behav'd himſelf with equal Skill and Courage in the
Execution of his Charge, but he was not much more
Fortunate than Conteſtophanes. The Emperor, impa-
sient to have the Iſland in his Poffeffion, ſail'd round
it himſelf, to ſee if he could find a place to Land
ar, but he had no better Succeſs than his Gene-
tals.
To add to his Grief, there happen'd a Quarrel be.
wween the Venetians and Romans about this Time. The
Venetians had for many Years maintain'd an Alliance
with the Roman Emperors, and were always ready to
aſſiſt them with their Troops, which they did as well
for the Benefit of their Levant Trade, a's to prevent the
ill Conſequences of the Norman Power in Italy. There
were in this Expedition againſt Corfu, a Body of Ve-
netian Auxiliaries, who having ſome difference with the
Greeks, fell from Arguments to Arms. The Chiefs of
both Nations ran to Appeaſe the Tumult, but they
grew
:
----
Chap. VI.
Manuel.
237
1
grew the more Fierce, the more they were deſir'd to A. D.
be Calm. The Grand Domeſtick perceiving that good works
Advice was thrown away on the Venetians eſpecially,
fent for his Guards, and commanded them to Charge
them, upon which they were forc'd to retire to their
Ships. They carry'd their Arms and their Anger with
them, and finding they were not ſtrong enough to Fight
the Greeks, went to the Ile of Aſteria, where
the Imperial Fleet lay, and burn'd moſt of them. Nos
fatisfy'd with doing this Damage to the Emperor, they
highly affronted his Perſon; for being a Man of a
ſwarthy Complexion, they dreſs’d up
an Ethiopian
Slave in the Imperial Ornaments, and Crown'd him in
the Cabin of the Admiral. The Emperor mighe eafi-
ly lave Chaſtis'd their Inſolence, but fearing it would
occaſion a Rupture between him and the Republick,
and wanting the Service of theſe Auxiliaries, he choſe
rather to hide his Reſentments, and feng ſome of the
Venetian Officers, who had nor joyn'd in the Tumulo
to perſwade their Country-men to accept of his Par-
don, and return to their Dury, which they did, noc
knowing how to clear themſelves of the Romans, who
encompaſs'd them on all fides, 'if they ſhould refuſe the
Indemnity Manuel offer'd them.
The Emperor ſeeing his Endeavours to reduce the
Illand by force were all in vain, reſolo'd to Starve the
Soldiers and Inhabitants, and this Deſign cook Effect ;
for having all their Supplies of ProviGon cut off, and
the Succours Roger promis'd to ſend them, not coming,
they at laſt conſented to the Honourable Conditions of
ferd chern by Manuel, and ſurrender'd the Iſland,
Moſt of the Soldiers enter'd themſelves in his Service,
and among the reſt, Theodorus Capellanus, the Gover-
nor, by whole Means the Iſlanders were prevail'd with
to Submit.
The Emperor, to Chaſtiſe the Sicilians for their In-
ſulting the Cities on the Coaſts of Peloponeſus, took a
brave Reſolution to Invade Sicily, and carry the War
into their own Country. To this end, He Equip'd
a mighty Fleer, and twice attempted to Tranſport an
Army to the land, but he was as often driven back
by Tempelts, which fcarter'd his Fleet, and funk ma-
ay of his Ships. He imagin'd by theſe Diſappoint-
mients,
238
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. ments, that Providence had not decreed that Conqueft
3148. for him, ſo he turn'd his Arms on the Servians, who
were always good Friends to the Romans, while they
were at Peace; but as ſoon as they law them embroild
with Foreign or Domeſtick Wars, they never fail'd to
make Inroads into their Territories. The Emperor
therefore march'd the Army he had rais’d for the Sici.
lian War into Servia. The Inhabitants nor daring to
appear before ſuch a Strength, fled to the Mountains,
and abandon'd their Country to the Fury of the Romans.
who rob’d and waſted it without Mercy, burn'd Cities,
took Priſoners, and drove them before them into the
Empire, No Enemy appearing to oppoſe them, and
the Serdians having little left that was worth carrying
away. The Emperor return'd to Conſtantinople, enter'd
the City in Triumpli
, and was receiv'd by the Senate,
and People with Shours of Praiſe. In the Spring he
went again to Illyria, to ſee his Fleet put to Sea, rer
folving on a third Atrempt on Sicily, but ſince he found
that Expedition was not reſervd for him, he gave the
Command of his Troops to Michael Paleologus, whom
he order'd to Sail ro Venice, and there to Levy more
Troops, which he did with Succeſs, and by the Ad-
vice of Count Alexander, a Relation of Roger, or ac-
cording to other Authors, of William, King of Sicily ; he
inarch'd into Calabria, won ſeveral Battles, took ſeve-
tal Citics, but dy'd of a Fever before he could Settle
the Romans ſo effectually in the Province, as to be able
to maintain their Ground.
The Servians entring into a League with the Hun.
garians againſt the Romans, Manuel again invaded
Their Territories, defeated them and their Allies, en-
gag'd their Champion and Leader Archifupan in ſingle
Combat, took him Priſoner, march'd into Hungary,
that King being then at War with the Duke of Muf.
covy, and over-ran the Country as far as Sirmium,
Manuel killd an Hungarian of extraordinary Stature. who at-
Invades tack'd him, and made a ſecond Triumphant Entry in-
Hungary. to Conftantinople at his Return. His Hungarian and
Servian Captives he order'd to be richly dreſs'd, thai
the Romans might take them to be of berter Quality
than they really were, and conſequently have a better
Opinion of his Victories.
1
Chap. VÍ.
239
Manuel.
1
But Roger
After the Death, or as others afirm the Depofițion A. D.
of Michael Paleologus, the Emperor fent Alexius, the 1148
Son of Bryennius, and John Ducas, to Succeed him
in the Management of the Sicilian War. They ar-
riv'd at that Illand, fought Roger's Fleet, ſcatter'd them,
and had like to have taken Brundufium,
coming down upon them with his Land Forces before
they expected him, fought them, defeated them, and
took them Priſoners. Manuel ſent Comftantinus Ange-
lus, who had marry'd his Aunt Theodora, with another
Fleet, having firſt conſulted the Stars about the Suc-
ceſs of his Expedition : But either the Stars were not
favourable, or the Romans were not a March for the
Sicilians. Roger's Galleys falling in with the Roman
Navy, diſpers'd their Ships, of which they took part,
among the reſt, the Admiral and Conſtantinus aboard
her, and part made their Eſcape by the goodneſs of
their Sails, and a Wind. King Roger had now three
Princes of the Imperial Houſes in his Cuftody, and
Manuel began to wiſh for a Peace, which was ef-
fected by the Negotiation of Alexius, ibe Son of Ar-
auchus, whom the Emperor ſent into Italy to renew
the War, and inſtructed him to endeavour to procure
Ambaſſadors to be ſent from Roger to Trear of a Peace.
Alexius levy'd Horſe and Foor Soldiers with great Di-
ligence, to make the King the more ready to hearken
to Propoſals of Peace, and privately correſponded with
the Admiral of Sicily to bring about an Accommoda-
rion. Marrers were ſo manag'd between them, that
Ambaſſadors were ſent to Conſtantinople from Sicily, to
conclude a Peace, which was foon clap'd up, and the
Priſoners on both sides ſer at Liberty, except fome
1150
Greek Mechanicks, whom Roger kept to work on the
Manufactures of that Iland.
Roger, tho' he had giv’en the Greek Emperor Peace,
renew'd the War again in a little time; and the Em-
peror by his Promiſes and Penfions ſtir'd up the Ita-
lian Princes to a Rupture with him, which found him
Work enough at Home. Before the King of Sicily
declar'd War, he ſent his Admiral to Inſult the Em-
peror in his Palace, and to proclaim bim Lord of Si-
cily, Aquileia, Capua, Calabria, and the Iſles in the
Ionian Sea, under the Walls of Blaclcrna : The Admi.
ra!
249
+
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
j
4
A. D. ral paſt the Ægean Gulph, the Hellefpont enter'd the
1150. Haven of Conftantinople, thot Arrows into the Palace
of Blacherne, cip'd with Gold, boaſted of his Maſter's
Valour and Power; and when he had perform'd this
notable Enterprize, retir'd. The Roman's were con-
cern'd to ſee their Sovereign, who was then abſent in
an Expedition againſt the Hungarians, inſulted by thoſe
they term'd Barbarians in his Imperial City; but the
Emperor, with good Reaſon, laugh'd at his vain Tri-
umph as Ridiculous and Silly.
The Sicilian War having this unfortunate End, one
might expect that Manucl would have been glad to
have lain Quiet a little, but he enter'd on new Expe-
ditions, His firſt was againſt the Hungarians, who
hearing he was Marching towards their Territories
with a powerful Army, ſent Ambaſſadors, who met
him at Sardica, and made Peace with him.
The Ser.
vians alſo deſir'd an Accommodation between him and
them, which he granted on their renouncing their Al-
liance with the Huns.
A new War broke out with Geiſa III. King of
Manuel Hungary, not long after, occafon'd by his undertaking
to Affilt the Emperor's Caulin Andronicus Comnenus,
Quarrels
Son of Ifaac, his Uncle, who had highly offended
with bis
Coulin An-him, not only by forming ambitious Deſigns to the
dronicus. Diſturbance of the State, being of an aſpiring Temper;
but for his inceſtuous Converſation with Eudoxia, the
Daughter of Andronicus, and afterwards with Theodora,
the Daughter of Iſaac Comnenus, his Brother. The for
mer was a Widow, and a Woman of great Beauty
and Wit; the latter had marry'd Baldwin III. King of
Fcrufaleir, who left her alſo à Widow. The firſt was
his Miſtreſs a long time, and when he was reprov'd
for his unlawful Commerce with her, he us'd to Laugh,
and ſay, Subjects generally follow the Example of their
Prince, and the Water that runs from the ſame Foun.
tain, will have the Same Taſte, alluding to the Empe-
ror's Familiarity with Theodora, Eudokia's Siter. This
Railery offended Manuel, who having Information of
ſome Outrages committed by him, in Defence of his
Miſtreſs, with whom he was ſurpriz'd ini Bed by her
Brother Foln, and Cantacuzenus, who had marry'd fies
Siſter, he threw him into Friſon, and order'd hlat to
bread
I
Chap. VI.
241
A
Manuel.
1
"
1
be loaden with Irons : However, he made his Eſcape, A. D.
and his Wife; who was thought Acceſſary to it, was 1150.
Impriſon'd in the ſame Place; he was afterwards taken,
and he again got out; but being a third time ſeiz'd,
and confin'd in a ſecurer Priſon, he remain'd there ,
Come Years with his Wife, who was delivered of a Son,
nam'd John, of whom we ſhall hear in the Courſe of
our Hiſtory. His Dutchies or Governments of Brani-
zova and Belgrade were confiſcated, and Andronicus by
his Emiffaries ftir'd up the King of Hungary to reco-
ver them. Geiſa belieg'd Branizova, and deſtroy'd
the Neighbourhood. Againſt him Manuel ſent Bafilóus,
the Grand Cartulary, an Officer, whoſe Buſineſs it was
to Pals and Publiſh the Publick Acts. Bafilius defeared 1157,
the Hungarians in one Engagement; but having the
worſt in another, the Einperor march'd againſt thein,
and oblig‘d them to conclude a Peace, and abandon the
Intereſt of Andronicus Cornenus.
After this, he undertook an Expedition into Armenia,
repair'd the Fortifications of Tarſus and Adena in his
March, as alſo thoſe of ſeveral other Cities, which
bad been endamag'd by the Incurſions of the Turks ;
and finding the Barbarians avoided coming to a Batile
with him, he reſolv'd to viſit Antioch. The Antiochi-
ans knowing what Pretendions the Roman Emperors had
to their City, were always uneaſie at the Viſits they
made them : However, they receiv'd chem with an ap-
pearance of Joy, as they ſhew'd on this Occaſion,
tho' 'twas all Grimace; They had much rather be
would have excus'd them the Trouble and Charge he
1158.
put them to; beſides the Shews which the Luxuri- He Viſies
ous Antiochians exhibited, to Entertain the Emperor, the Antio
there were Tilcs and Turnaments, in which Manuel chians.
ſignaliz'd himſelf againſt the Italian Cavaliers, who
enter'd the Lifts to thew their Dexterity in thoſe fort
of Encounters, for which they were renown'd over the
World.
At his Return to Conſtantinople, he found his Em.
prefs in a languiſhing Condition, and the Died the fame
Year. He ſeem'd extreamly troubled for the Loſs of
her, tha' 'ıwas very much queſtion’d, whether his Sor-
Tow was any thing more than Affectation; for he never
thew'd very much Love to her, tho' he was the moſt
R
Te
242
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
!
A. D. reſpectful of Husbands. As foón as Decency would
1158. permit, he Marry'd Mary; Daughter of Raymond II.
Prince of Antioch, by which Alliance the Antiochians
were deliver'd' from the Fear of any Attempts againſt
them by the Greeks
3159
At this Time there happen'd a Diviſion in the Fami-
ly of Mafut, late Sultan of Iconium, which had the
Emperor improv'd, he might eaſily have driv’n the
Infidels out of Aſia Minor. But tho' he affected to
imitate the King.Craft of his Grandfather Alexius, he
had not his Head, his Fore.ſight and Prudence to di-
rect him. Maſut was lately Dead, and had divided
his Dominions among his three Sons. To Clitziaftlan,
the Eldeſt, he gave Iconium, and its Dependencies.
To Fagupazan, his Son-in-Law, the Cities of Amafea
and Ancyra, with the Province of Cappadocia : And to
his youngeſt Son Dadunes, che Cities of Cafarea, Se-
baſta, and the Territories belonging to them. Theſe
Cities and Provinces were part of the Roman Empire
in the former Reigns, and being now divided among
three Princes, who did not very well agree together,
Manuel might have made his advantage of their Divi..
fions, had not his Vanity and Credulity depriv'd him
of the Opportunity which was put into his Hands, 10
recover the leffer Aſia from the Infidels. The Sultan
of Iconium had a Difference with the Sultan of Cappa.
docia, which they referrd to the Emperor to Accom-
modate. Manuel, inſtead of Reconciling them, by his
Intriegues, made the Breach wider than before, and it
ended in a War. The Emperor affifted Fagupazan,
who by this means obtain'd ſeveral Victories over the
Sultan of Iconium, and then laid down his Arms, and
remain'd in Quier for ſome time. Clitziaſtlan came to
Conftantinople, to implore the Emperor's Aſſiſtance.
Manuel entertain'd him with ſo much Splendor, that
the Barbarian was dazld with the Magnificence and
Luftre of the Imperial Court; and to confound him
with his Riches and Liberality, he order'd a vaſt quan-
rity of Gold and Silver, of wrought Plare, rich Robes,
Alanici
Silks and Stuffs to be ſet out in a Room, whither he
Saira is carry'd the Sultan, and ask'd him, what he would
Fichie's.
chuſe of all that for himſelf. The Sultan reply'd, What
he pleas’d to give him, he would receive with Reſpect,
The
1
Jhens the
1
Chap. VI.
243
Manuel.
The Emperor demanded, if he thought he could be too A. D.
hard for his Enemies, were all that Treaſure bis. Clitzi. 1159.
aſtlan reply'd, He Saould have ſubdu'd them long ago,
had he been Maſter of half thoſe Riches. Manuel an-
ſwerd, I give them to you all
, that you may imagine
bow Rich that Emperor muſt be who can make ſuch Prea
ſents." The Turk amaz'd at ſo much Generoſity, pro.
mnis'd to drive his Brother Dadunus out of Sebaſtia, and
to reſtore to the Romans that City, and others, with
their Dependencies. On this Confideration, Manuel or-
der'd Conſtantine Gabras to paſs over into Aſia, with ha,
Troops and Money to joyn Clitziaſtlan's Forces, and
rake Poffeffion of the Places that were to be reſtor'd
How the Barbarian rewarded the Emperor for his
Bounty. we ſhall ſee hereafter.
Among other Diverſions which were invenied for the
Entertainment of the Emperor and the Sultan, while
the Latter ſtay'd at Conſtantinople , there was One
very remarkable, and was the Contrivance of a Turk,
who to Divert the Emperor, as the Romans had done
his Maſter, with ſomething Extraordinary, gave out,
That at ſuch a time he would Ay from the higheſt Thee extile
Tower of the Hippodrome, buaſting that he would
vagant En-
take his Flight round the Circuit of that Place, which
terprize of
was a Furlong in Compaſs. The Emperor would have a Turka
diſlwaded him from fo vain and dangerous an Enter-
prize. The Sulten was divided berween Hope and
Fear, withing for the Honour of his Country, that he
might Succeed; and yet fearing that he would Perilli,
and bring a Scandal on his Country-men, for their Va.
niry and Temerity. The Turk, at the Time appoint-
ed, appear'd on the Top of the Tower, dreſs'd in a
large white Robe, the Sleeves of which, for thick with
Ofers, were to ſerve him for artificial Winge. The
whole Cry was up to ſee the Succeſs of his Under-
taking, and the Barbirian making them itay a little
too long, they cry'd our, Fiy. Turk, Fly, don't keep z's
Waiting here while you ſaid weighing the Air. Their
Impatience halen'd the infidel's Flighe, he ſpread out
his Arms and his Legs, and when lie thought ihe Wind
was farrable, he Launched into the Air like a Bird,
but his Wings deceiv'd him, as they had done litrus in
elder Tlines: Down came te Turk, and was glad to
R 2
? 일
​។
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. Vì.
244
.
man.
A. D. get off with broken Bones. The People inſtead of
2159. pitrying, laugh'd heartily at his Preſumption, and made
a Jeſt of it to the Turks, who could not paſs along the
Streets for the Railery of the Mechanicks. The Em-
peror Laugh'd in himſelf at the Fellow's Folly, but
out of Reipect to the Sultan, he forbad the Citizens
to Jear the Turks or the Madneſs of their Country-
Clitiaſtlax returning Home, forgot Manuel's Libera-
The Sul- lity, and his own Promiſes : He took Sebaſtia, and
tan's In- ruin'd ir, made himſelf Maſter of Cæſarea, drove Da-
gratitudc. dunes out of his Dominions ; attack'd Fagupaſan, who
dy'd while he was preparing to Oppoſe him ; ſubdu'd
Cappadocia, and inſtead of reſtoring the Cities he pro-
mis'd to deliver up to the Romans, he took ſome of
their Towns, drove the Amir or Prince of Meletena out
of his Territories, and oblig'd him and Dadunes to fiy
to the Emperor -for Protection. Cliciaftlan finding his
Power to encreale, requir'd the ſame Submiſſions from
the Emperor, which he had lately paid him. He us'd
to call him Father, and now like an undutiful Son he
invaded his Dominions, rob’d and kill'd his Subjects,
and oblig'd the Emperor to raiſe an Army to make
Head againſt him ; who being become Formidable by
his Succeſſes, forc'd Manuel to give him more Money
to put an end to a War which he had rais'd with the
Money he had given him. And as he had betray'd
him for his Liberality, fo he now did the ſame, taking
bis Money, and yet continuing his Acts of Hoftility.
However, he had the Impudence to ſend Solyman, a
cunning falſe Turk, to the Emperor, to Excuſe his Pro-
ceedings, and carry him a Preſent of fine Horſes. Tho'
Manuel had juſt Reaſon to Treat' the Ambaſſador, as
his Falſenels, and his Maſter's Treachery deſerv'd, yet
he was ſomewhat pacify'd by the Gift he brought him,
and diſmiſs'd him, with an order to Reproach his
Mafter with his Infidelity and Inconftancy. Clitia.
lan, inſtead of taking any Notice of his Remonftran-
ces, invaded his Dominions again, took Laodicea, and
carry'd away the Citizens, with Solomon their Biſhop;
into Captivity. The Emperor fent Michael Angelus,
with a Party of Soldiers to make an Inroad into the
Sultan's Territorioz. Micbige! fell in with a Body of
Infidels
1
Cape VỊ.
245
Manuel.
.:
Infidels, who were poſted for Guards to the Flocks A. D.
and Herds that were Feeding in ſome rich Paſtures. 11590
He reſolv'd to Attack them by Night, to Surprize them,
becauſe their Numbers were Superior to his : To this
end, he gave a Word to his Men, to diſtinguiſh them
by it in the Engagement, which Word the Turks hap-
pen'd to get, and when the Romans attack'd them, they
were confounded, and could meet none without the
Word. This prevented any Action by Night, and the
bext Morning both Parties ſeparated by Conſent.
Manuel taking upon him about this Time the Proe
tection of Stephen, the Brother of Geiſa, King of Hun-
gary, whoſe Nephew Stephen III. Geiſa's Son had ſuc-
ceeded him in the Throne, it occafion'd a War be-
tween the Romans and the Hungarians, we muft look
a little back into the Riſe of it, to make our Relation
clear to the Reader. Geiſa had two Sons, Stephen and
Bela; and two Brothers, Stephen and Ladiſlaus ; Both
of whom came to Conſtantinople in the Life time of
Geija, to eſcape the Fury of their Broiher, whom they
bad offended. Stephen was marry'd to the Princeſs
Mary, the Emperor's elder Brother Iſaac's Daughter,
and being by this Alliance made entirely. Manuel's
Friend, or rather Creature, he undertook to put him
on the Throne of Hungary, obliging himn in (aſe he
had Succeſs, to reſign Sirmium, and the neighbouring
Country to the Roman Emperor. By his Alliltance Ste-
phen made himſelf Maſter of that City, and kept Pol-
ſeſſion of ic five Months; but then he was Murder'd
by Procurement of the Hungarian', who would not
hearken to any Terins of Submillion to him, having
an Averlion to him for his Friendſhip with the Romans,
whom they both fear'd and hated. However, to pre-
yent a War with Manuel, they conſented to accepi of
Ladiſlaus for their Sovereign, and co renounce their Al-
legiance to Stephen, the lawful Heir to the Crown,
Ladiſlaus dying in fix Months, they return'd to the O- 1101.
bedience of Stephen, againſt whom the Emperor rais’d
his Brother Bela, reſolving to put the Crown of Hun-
gary on a King of his own chooſing, which tho ho
could never bring to paſs, yet 'twas the occaſion of a
long and expenſive War. Minuel marchd in Perſona
into Hungary, took the City of Sirmium, and left Core
3 airtimas
C
1
246
>
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
Ą, D. ftantinus Angelus Governor there with a good Garri:
1161. ſon, who after he was gone ſettled a Colony of Romans
at Branizova. This Angelus was a Nobleman of the
City of Philadelphia, who was preferr’d to the Bed
of the Emperor's Aunr, Theodora Comnena, for his
Handſomneſs, which was the Riſe of the Houſe of
Angeli, whoſe Princes' afterwards ſat on the Imperial
Throne.
Eudoxia, whoſe wanton Commerce with Andronicus
we have already mention'd, was marry'd to Michael
Gabras, and Manuel appear'd to be reconcil'd to him,
reſtor'd him to his Liberty, and admitted him to Court,
where he gave his Coufin the Emperor new Offence,
by refuſing to ſwear Fidelity to his Daughter Mary,
and her Husband Bela, Brother of Stephen, King of
Hungary, who had taken the Name of Alexius, he de-
clar'd them to be Empreſs and Emperor after his De-
ceaſe. Andronicus excus'd himſelf, ſaying, The Empe-
ror might have Children, and the Oath would then be
teleſs; beſides, it ſeem'd a Fudgment of Heaven, upon
them, that he ſhould prefer a Stranger to a Roman : All
the Princes and the Nobility Ecclefiaftical and Civil,
took the Oath except Andronicus, tho' many of them
were privately of his Opinion, but ſuch was his Va-
lour and Experience in War, that the Turks having re-
duc'd the Roman Afairs in Cilicia to the laſt Extre-
mity, he was ſent táither to take on him the Govern-
ment, being though the fitteſt Perſon in the Empire,
both for his Birth and Merit to Command there. Mas
nuel allow'd him the Revenues of the Iſland of Cyprus,
for the Support of himſelf and his Government. Ano
dronicus did nothing anſwerable to his Character and
Reputation; he was defeated by Toros, the Sultan's
General, and neglecting the Care of his Office, he gave
himſelf over to his natural Inclination, io Pleaſure and
Anours. He weni to Antioch, and courted Raymund's
Daughter, Siſter to the Empreſs : By his Gallantry and
Addreſs he charm'd the Princeſs, and would have mar.
ry'd ner, had not Manuel, on News of his Intentions
feiit to Raymund, to defire him not to enter into any
Alliance with hiin. Another Governor was order'd
to ſupply his place in Cilicia, who, however, had no
Berter Succeſs ihan Andronicus in the Turkif? War.
The
:
Chap. VI.
247
Manuel.
:
The latter fled to Jeruſalem, and there he continu'd A. D.
his diffolute Courſe of Life, got the Favour of Theo 11610
dora the Queen, Widow of Baldwin III. and Niece to
the Emperor, whom he corrupted by his fair Words
and winning Behaviour. She was Siſter to Eudoxia;
and Manuel was ſo enragéd at the ſecond Diſhonour
which he brought on the Imperial Family, that he
wrote to all the Princes and Governors of the Eaſtern
Provinces to ſeize him and put out his Eyes: Andro-
nicus finding there was no Safety for him on this ſide
the Euphrates , fled to the Sultan of Babylon with
Theodora, who by accident intercepted that Letter which
was directed to the King of Jeruſalem, and giving him
Notice of his Danger, advis'd him to fly, offering her
ſelf to be the Companion of his Flight and Exile. At
Babylon, Theodora brought him two Children, Alexius
and Irene, and there they liv'd till they were permite
ted to return to the Empire, where he accomplim'd thole
wicked and ambitious Deſigns, which he had been a
long time meditating:
Manuel fearing the Greatneſs of Alexius A.cauchus,
Ebe Son of the lace Grand Domeſtick, who imicating his
Father's Virtues, was belov'd and admir'd for the Per-
fections of his Body and Mind, being equally Beauriful
and Brave ; or covering his Riches which his Father
had left him, and were the fair Reward of forty Years
faithful Service to the Crown; or inftigated to it by the
falſe Informations of ſome Court Sycopirants, orderd
him to be ſeiz'd at Sardica and thruſt into a Monafter
ry. His Wife, the eldeſt Daughter of Alexius, Manuel's
Eldelt Brother, was fo griev'd at her Husband's Misfor-
cunes, that when ſhe found the could not prevail wich
her Unkle by her frequent and earneſt Pecitions to re-
ſtore him to his Favour, Me pind away and Died.
Aaron, the Emperor's Interprerer for the Latin Tongue,
who accus'd Alexius of Treaſonable Crimes, was afo
terwards for ſeveral wicked Practices Condemo'd ta
have his Tongue cut out. Alexius ſpent the remainder
of his Days in Solitude with great Chearíulneſs and De
votion, and was pity'd as generally as he was beu
lov'd.
The Hungarian War being renew'd, the Emperor
lens Andronicus Comtestophanes to Şirnism with a bow-
R
erful
6
!
1
The Roman Hiſtory Chap. VI.
248
A. D. erful Army. Conteſtophanes fought Denys the Hungari.
1167. an General, and defeated his Troops, obtaining fo
Glorious a Victory, that Manuel requir'd a Triumph for
ir, which 'twas in his own Power to take; for the Se-
nate of Gonftantinople had no more real Authority than
the Doge of Venice. Having thus humbled Stephen,
King of Hungary, he turn'd his Arms againſt Stephen
Neeman, Prince of Servia, who, hearing of his Approach,
went to his Camp with his Head bare, his Arms naked
up to the Elbow, a Halter about his Neck, offer'd
his Sword to Manuel, fell at his Eeet and beg'd
Pardon for his and his peoples Offences. The Erpe-
ror ſeeing him in ſo ſad a Poſture, forgave what was
paſt, and concluded a Peace with him.
Manuel's next Enterprize was in Conjunction with
Amalricks the firſt King of Feruſalem, againſt the Sul-
tan of Ægypt. Contėſtophanes was made General in this
Expedition, which they began with the Siege of Tunis;
and having reduc'd that City, Amalrick and Conteſto-
phanes belieg'd Damietta, which the Barbarians defen:
ded ſo reſolutely, that the King deſpair'd of taking it,
1169.
and accepred of a Diſhonourable Peace offer'd him by
the Sultan. Conteſtophanes could not pretend to carry
on the War alone, lo he return'd with Amalrick and
the Remainders of his ſhacrer'd Fleet and haraſs'd Ar-
The Romans Curs'd the King of Ferufalem for
abandoning them ſo baſely; but Manuel receiving a
Splendid Embally from the Sultan ſoon after, Confirm'd
the Peace that Amalrick had made.
We have more than once obſerv'd in this Hiſtory,
that the Franks in the Eaft were as jealous of the Greeks
as of the Turks ; and we muſt not be ſurprizd, to
find them unwilling to help them to any Acceffion of
Poner. The King of Ferufalem had got Tunis in his
Puffeliion, and he was ſatisfy'd, could the Greek En.
peror have got footing in Ægypt, he would have been
a worle Neighbour to him than Saladine, the Sultan of
Erypt, and for this Reaſon he left the Ronians to them-
ſelves, when he had done his Buſineſs, which Manuel
might have expected would be the Iſſue of a War car-
ry'd on by two Princes jealous of one another.
While the Egyptian War was on foot, the Empreſs
Mary was deliver'd of a Son, who was nam'd Alexius.
The
..
Chap. VI.
249
Manuel.
The Senators and others, who had taken an Oath of A. D.
Fidelity to Alexius of Hungary, and his Wife, were 11692
diſcharg’d of that Oath, and requir'd to ſwear Allegi-
ance to Alexius, the Emperor's Son, whom he declar'd
his Succeffor, and took away his Daughter Mary from
Alexius of Hungary to Marry her to Rayner, Son of
William, Marquis of Montferrat. Alexius, or Bela,
Marry'd Manuel's Wife's Siſter, Daughter to Raymond,
Prince of Antioch, and Bela on the Death of his
Brother Stephen ſucceeded him in the Hungarian
Throne.
In the Year 1174. the Emperor remembring the Af-
11748
front put upon him ſeveral Years ago by the Venetians
at Corfou, and reſenting ſome later Injuries receiv'd Manuel
from them, reſolv'd to be reyeng'd. He order'd all the orders all
Venetians in his Territories to be apprehended in one the Goods
Day, and their Goods Confiſcated. Thoſe of them of the Ve-
netians to
that had no Wives got on Shipboard and fail'd to Ve-
nice, where they complain’d to the Republick of the be seiz’de
Wrong done them by the Roman Emperor, and the Se-
pate commanded their Admirals to revenge their Injuries
on the. Subjects of the Empire.
The next year they ſent a Fleet to the Levant, 1175.
which ſtop'd at the Morea, and the Venetians having and their
burnt ſome Villages proceeded to Chios, where they Perſons to
made a Deſcent, ravag'd the Illand and carry'd off a be impri-
good Boory. Manuel order'd Conteſtophanes with the for’d.
Imperial Navy to oppoſe them, but the Venetians were
too nimble for him: They got away with their Plun-
der without any Loſs, and the Republick entring into
a League with the King of Sicily, deſpis'd the Forces
of the whole Empire. Manuel now began to repent,
that hehad given them juft Cauſe of a Rupture: As he
broke the Peace abruptly, ſo he found himſelf oblig'd
so pur an abi upe End to the War. He offer'd the Ves
metians to reſtore the Confiſcated Goods, bur that
would not ſatisfy them ; they were a Trading People,
and knowing his Neceflities they reſolv'd to make their
Market by them: They demanded a vaſt Sum of Mo-
ney, amounting in our way of Calculation to 150000l.
for the Damages, they had ſuitain'd, and the Emperor He buys 6
was forc'd to give it to them. By this we may ſee Peace of
how neceſſary it is for a Prince to weigh well his own them.
Strength,
ܪ
.
250
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VỸ.
A. D. Strength, before he provokes that of his Enemy; and
$175. that thoſe who begin a War unjuſtly, are often oblig'd
to end it diſhonourably. He had an Enemy in Aſia,
who was more than a March for all his Forces; and
wbile he was Warring in the Weſt out of Wantonneſs,
be took his Cities from him, and wafted his Provinces
in the Eaſt. But Manuel endeavour'd by Treaties to
obtain a diſadvantageous Peace from the perfidious Sul-
tan of Iconium, that he might be at leiſure to chaſtiſe
the Venetians, whoſe Wiſdom and Power foon made
him weary of his Enterprize. His Money procur'd
him a little Quiet in Aſia ; but when the Sultan want-
ed more, be broke into his Territories. Manuel, who
was as impatient of Injuries as any Prince in the World,
came to a Reſolution worthy a Roman Emperor, to
raiſe a mighty Army and bring the Infidel to Reaſon
by Force. The Sultan manag'd the War with mo
Caution, and conſequently with more Succeſs than the
Emperor. He ftay'd at Home, and left the Conduct
of it to bis Generals, Himſelf taking Care to ſupply
them with all Things neceſſary. The Emperor on the
contrary was Fiery and Open, ſeldom gave himſelf
Time to think on the Conſequences of an Action, and
deſpis'd all Danger, by which he brought himſelf fre-
quently into great Streighrs: The Pretence he had for
the War was too Plauſible. The Sultan had ſeiz'd
Laodicea and fortify'd it, and threatend to make him-
ſelf Maſter of Doryleum, which was in no ſtate of De-
fence. Manuel having provided every thing requiſite
for his Enterprize, croſs'd the Helleſpont with a Power
fufficient to recover the Territories which the Barbari-
ans had ravith'd from the Roman Empire in Ajia. His
firſt Care was to repair the Fortifications of Doryleum.
The Sultan fent Ambaſſadors to him, to delift from
an Undertaking that might give Umbrage of his
Debgn to breake a Peace, which the Barbarian had
bimſelf often broken. Manucl gave a haughty Anſwer
10 the Ambaffadors, and continu'd the Works he had
began. The Infidels durft not give the Romans Battle,
bur they fell upon the Parties that advancd into the
Country for Forrage or Proviſions, and cur them to
Pieces. When the Fortifications of Dorylewin were fi
mind, Manuel fortify'd Subleum, a Fort that very
much
i
Chap. VI.
251
Manuel.
1
much reſtrain'd the Incurſions of the Infidels, and re- A. D:
turn'd to Conſtantinople.
1175
The War was not prevented by the Emperor's Re-
treat : The two Monarchs High-ſpirited and Revenge-
ful both of them, began it with Remonſtrances and
Reproaches. Manuel charg'd the Sultan with Ingrati-
cude, remembred him of the Riches and the Affittance
he gave him; and the Sultan accus'd the Emperor of
Breach of Treaties, ſaying, His Promiſes never agreed
with his Artions. The Difference was too great to be
accommodated by Arguments. The Turk new'd no
Diſpoſition to reſtore any of the Places he had taken;
and the Emperor knew he could not preſerve what was
left, unleſs he recover'd what was loft: He therefore
ſpent all the Winter in railing Forces, and in prepa-
sing to invade the Sultan's Dominions in the following
Spring. He defir'd Succours of the Latins, hir'd
Troops of the Scythians and got ſuch an Army together,
that he hop'd to extirpare the Infidels in Aſia Minor,
and trainple the Sultan under his Feet.
When he was ready to embark, he went to the
Church of Saneta Sophia, to implore the Divine Aſſiſt-
1176.
Manuel's
ance; but thoſe Prayers that do not come from a De-
vout and Contrite Heart, are an Abomination to the
Expeditiosz
Lord, and the Return of them is ſeldom follow'd with Sultti.
againſt the
a Bleſſing. Croſſing the Hellefpont he march'd to the
Banks of the Meander, proceeding with a great deal of
Circumſpection, entrenching himſelf wherever he ſtop'd,
to prevent any Surprize from the Turks, who were Fa-
mous for a ſudden Action, and ſeldom ſucceeded
in a formal premeditated Engagement, The Infidels
appear'd ſometimes in Parties to deſtroy the Forrage,
and infected the Springs, that the Chriſtians might be
incommoded in their March for want of Graſs and
good Water. The Romans being Thirſty, could not
forbear drinking at all the Fountains they came to,
which threw them into Fluxes and weaken'd them ex-
treamly.
The Sultan feeing what Danger he was in, ſent to
the Courts of all the Mahometan Princes to delire Suc-
The Infidels always zealous in Defence of thoſe
- they blaſphemouſly ſtyle Believers, diſpatch'd their Of
Sicers away with Recruits, and ſoon put the Sultan in a
Coad
Cours.
i
.
252
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
D.
Condition to meet that Power, which he at firſt thought
1176. Invincible : However,' he endeavour'd to end the
Matter by,a Treaty, and to char Purpoſe ſent Ambaſſa
dors to Manuel to deſire a Peace on his own Terms.
The Old Men in the Emperor's Council, who knew
by Experience bow doubtful the Events of War are,
advis'd him to come to an Agreement with the Sultan,
and not to venture the Fortune of the Empire on the
hazard of Arms. They repreſented to him, that the
Arabian Horſe were very Formidable, that the Infidels
were ſafe in the Inacceſſibleneſs of their Country, and
the Diſeaſes in the Roman Army gave the Barbarians
great Advantage over them. This prudent Advice the
Emperor neglected, and was govern'd by his Relati-
ons, who thought the Luſtre of their Robes glittering
with Gold and Prerious Stones, would dazle the Eyes
of the Infidels and confound them; theſe were all for
Fighting, by whom Manuel was directed, and dif-
inils'd the Ambaſſadors with an Imperious Anſwer.
The Sultan again ſent to demand a Peace of him.
Manuel reply'd, He would ſatisfie bis Demands when he
came to Iconium. The Turk finding there were na
e rejects Hopes of an Accounmodation, had recourſe to his uſu-
the Peace
offer'd by
al Scratagems, and laid an Ambuſcade for him at the
e Turk. Paſs of Sybriza, a long Valley, on one ſide bounded by
high Mountains, and on the other with deep Precipices.
The Emperor, tho' he was forewarn'd of the Danger
that threaten'd him, took no Care to prevent ir. He
was advisd to ſend a Party of Light Horſe before, to
ſecure the Paſs and diſcover the Motions of the Enemy,
Inſtead of this Precaution, he enter'd the Valley in as
much Security as if it had been an open Country, tak-
ing no Care for the Safety of his Carriages, nor appre-
hending any Peril from the Streightneſs or Difficulty
of the Way. Johannes Angelus and Andronicus, Sons
of Conſtantinus Angelus led the Van, Baldwin, the Em-
preſs's Brother, the Right Wing, and Theodorus Mauro-
umus the Left. The Carriages follow'd after the Wings:
Then the Emperor with the Flower of the Army, and
Conrcftopbanes brought up the Rear. Johannes and An-
dronicus paſt the Valley without any loſs ; but Bald .
rin's Men marching with leſs Circumſpection were
arrack'd by the Infidels and routed. The Barbarians
fush'd
more
Chap. VI.
Manuel.
253
fluih'd with this Succeſs, ſtop'd up the Paſſages ſo that A. D.
the Romans could not go forward or backward, and 1732
pour'd down Showers of Arrows on them from the
Mountains, by which Men and Horſes were killa, and
the Romans could not defend themſelves or annoy the
Enemy. The Emperor was mightily troubled at this He leads
bis Enemt
diſmal Sight, and frighten’d with the Appearance of throna
the Peril he was in, Johannes and Andronicus, who dangerous
had paſs'd the Streights, gain’d an Eminence and forti-
Paſs.
fy'd themſelves in it, waiting the coming up of the reſt
of the Army. In the mean time the Turks made their
moſt violent Effort on the main Body, where the Em-
peror was in Perſon. Manuel charg'd them and ob-
lig'd them to give back a little ſeveral times, but
could not clear the Paſſage. The Turks continually
preſs'd upon him with freſh Multitudes, and having the
Advantages of the Ground on all Gides, made fo terrible
a Slaughter of the Romans, that the Valley was almoft
cover'd, and the Precipices fill'd up with the Bodies of
the Slain. Horrible was the image of that Fatal Hour?
Turks, Romans, Men, Horſes, were promiſcuouſly Bu-
ry'd in the adjacent Precipices. The Turks Lots was
inconſiderable ; but the Romans, the Princes and No-
bility eſpecially, were Maſſacred in a moſt dreadful
A chick Cloud aroſe at the ſame time, which
hinder'd both Armies from diſtinguihing their Friends
from their Foes', and they killed both indifferently,
till the Sun had exhald the black Miſt, and diſcover'd
a Spectacle the moſt hideous that ever Nature beheld i
Men faln frorn their Horſes and half trampled to Deacti,
crying out in vain for Succour; others Bury'd up to
the Walt with the Dead, and holding out their Hands
for Affiſtance to thoſe that could not help themſelves,
The Emperor was left alone withour Attendants or
Guards, and was attack'd by a Turk, whom he flew ;
and being afrerwards joyn'd by ten Romans, who ran
to his Relief, he clear'd himſelf of orher Barbarians
who aſſaulted him, and endeavour'd to make his Way
to the Troops that had gaind the Eminence, but the
Paſſage was on one fide ſtop'd up by the Turkiſh Squa-
drons, and on the other by the Carcaſes of the Slain:
Aclat he ſurmounted all Difficulties, and with incredio
ble Fariglie made his Way over the Bodies of the Dead
anal
manner.
1954
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. and reachd a Party of Romans, who were rally'd,
1176. and as ſoon as they ſaw him advanc'd to his Atift
ance. In his way he perceiv'd Fohannes Cantacuzenus,
who had Marry'd Mary, the Daughter of Andronicus,
the Einperor's Brother, fighting for his Life with a
Multitude of his Enemies, looking about for Help,
and none daring to help him ; at lait he was a Witneſs
of his Death, and ſaw him Arip'd by the Barbarians.
Thoſe that killd him perceiving the Emperor, clos'd
their Ranks to encompaſs him; but Manuel,
whoſe ſhining Quality was Valour, animaced his
Men to behave themſelves like Romans in the Defence
of bis Life and their own, and charg'd the Infidels
with ſuch Fury, that he broke their Ranks and fought
his Way thro' them to the Troops that had gain'd the
Eminence, where the Romans entrench'd themſelves.
Before be got up to them, he ask'd for ſome Warer our
of a River that ran near the Place where he was; and
when 'twas brought him, finding 'twas defil'd with the
The Info- Blood of the Dead Bodies, he threw it away, crying out,
lent wing Ah! Hom wretched am I to drink Chriſtian Blood. A
of a Ro- rude Soldier who over-heard him, reply'd, This is not
man Soi- the firſt time. Oh Emperor ! that thou haſt drunk the
dier to the Blood of Chriſtians; thou haſt rioted with it to Intoxi.
Emperor, cation, by fucking it out of the Veins of thy poor Subjects,
in burthening them with cruel Impofitions. As the Sol-
diers Infolence was ill rin'd, fo would the Emperor's
Refentment have been. The Guilt of his Reproach
lay upon bis Conſcience, and he bore it with the Mode.
tation that his preſent Circumſtances requir'd. Ai
Night Conteſtophanes, who commanded the rear of the
Army, arriv'd unhurr, and brought a few of his Men
with him. No Words are Atrong enough to give a
The Di- lively Image of this fad Meeting. Their Hearts were
Streſs of the ſo full of Grief, that their Tongues could not expreſs
Romans. it. The Emperor and his Officers fare down on the
Ground with their Hear's leaning on their Hands,
mourning råe loſs of their Friends and Relations, and
medita ing how to eſcape the ſame Fare themſelves,
they beard the Barbarians call out to one another. Hun
them in, and to Morror me mill cut their Throats. In
this fad Stare thry pat the moft terrible Night that ever
Man know, and yet mot ſo terrible to them as the ap-
proabcing
Chap. VI.
255
Manuel.
proaching Day, which they expected would be their
A, DA
laſt. The Emperor overcome by his Fcars, reſoly'd to 1176.
Ay ſecretly and abandon his Men to the Barbarians ;
all that knew of his Deſign abhor'd it, and Conteſtopha-
nes more than any other. A Soldier who liſtend to
their Diſcourſe, cry'd out, Oh! What a baſe Thought is
enter'd into the Emperor's Mind: And then addreſſing
himſelf to him, he ſaid theſe Words, Is it not you that The Emp
led us into this ſtreight and deſert Place ? Is it not you ror think-
that was the Cauſe of our periſhing among Rocks, against ing to be
which we were daſs d in Pieces, or of aur being bury'd
bandoni his
under Mountains: What bad we to do here in this Vale
Men, istea
of Tears, Groans, this Mouth of Hell, amidft, Precipices a private
proach'd by
and bottomleſs Pits? We have no Quarrel with the Bar-
Soldier.
barians, who have mult us up in a Chain of inacceſſible
Hills : 'Tis you that led us to be Butcher'd, to be Sacri.
fic'd like so many Vi&tims ; and would you not leave us ?
The Emperor was touch'd to the Quick by the free
Speech of the Soldier, and reſolv'd to abide all Ex-
tremities.
But now, when the Romans deſpaird of ſurviving
the next Day's Sun, and much leſs of ever ſeeing their
dear Country and their Relations more ; when they
had given over all Thoughts of eſcaping the bloody
Vengeance of the Barbarians, and expected with the
Morning to begin their Journey to Eternity thro' che
dark Vale of Death, leſs terrible than that thro' which
they paſt; It pleas'd the Almighty, in whoſe Hands
are the Hearts of Kings, to ſtrike Pity into that of the
Sultan, and encline him to look on the diſtreſs'd Con- The Suitaza
dition of the Roman Emperor with Compaflion. That pities his
Soul, which never knew Pity till now, melted at the Conditions
Sight of ſo much Miſery, and in the midſt of its Con-
cern for the Face of ſo great a Prince, be ſent Meffen-
gers to Manuel to offer Peace, at a cime when he could
not have thought that any thing leſs than Death or Sla-
very would come from his Mouch. The Dove that
brought the OliveBranch to the Ark, was nor mcre wela
come to Noah and his Sons,than the Sultan's Ambaſſadors
were to the Emperor and his Soldiers. But the Turks,
who knew nothing of their Sovereign's Intentions, pre-
par'd as ſoon asDay broke to attack the Romans, and be-
gan to engage with a horrible Shour. John Angelus and
Como
:
256
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VÌ.
ز
Shr
A. .D Conſtantine his Brother, prepar'd alſo to receive them,
1176. reſolving ſince they muſt periſh to die like Romans,
The two Parties fought forne time with equal Advan-
tage, till the Sultan dent Gabras, a Man of the greateſt
Authority in his Empire, next himſelf, to draw
off the
Infidels and to begin the Treaty. Gabras approaching
the Emperor Saluted him profoundly, according to the
manner of the Barbarians, Preſented him with a Sword
and a Horſe richly Capariſon'd, endeavour'd to com-
forr him by his foothing Talk, and recommended to
him the Love of Peace, which was needleſs at tha:
time for no Prince could be more diſpos'd to it than
And gives Manuel was, nor with more Reaſon. Gabras perceiving
bim Peace. the Emperor had a rich Robe of black Satin, wrought
with Gold, over his Armour, ſaid, That Colour is
Ominous, and ſhould not be worn in War. Manuel
thinking he had a Mind to it, gave it to him, and they
entring on the Treaty of Peace, 'twas ſoon concluded
and fign'd. The Emperor was not in Circumſtances to
diſpute the Conditions of it. The Sultan demanded
thar the Forts of Doryleum and Subleum ſhould be de-
molith'd ; and Manuel agreed to it. The Emperor did
not at firſt believe the Sultan was in earneft; bur fee.
ing he had drawn off his Troops, and left the Paſſage
clear for the Romans to recrear, he prepar'd to return
to his own Territories. He order'd the Guides to lead
the Army another way, that he inight not ſee the dead
Bodies of his Soldiers that lay in the Streights of Sy-
briza. The Guides on purpoſe to mortifie and afflict
him with a sight of which he had been the Occafion,
led the Romans back the ſame way, that his Eyes might
ſee a Spectacle for which he could never ſufficiently
mourn. The Cavities of the Precipices were full of
Manuel's Carcaſſes, the Valleys were cover'd and the Forreſts
Refreit.
ſtrew d with them: Their Heads and obſcene Parts
were cut off by the Infidels, that the Turks might not
be diſtinguifti'd from the Chriſtians. There was not a
Roman, who did not as he past by, pour forth a Flood
of Tears and Sighs from the bottom of his Soul in
Remembrance of a Friend or Relation, whom he ſaw
lye dead there. They cali’d upon them who could
make no Anſwer, and left them unbury'd in the Lands
of the Circumcis'd,
The
Chap. VỊ.
257
Manuel
}
>
The Romans had ſcarce paſt the Straights before their A. D.
Rear was atcackt by the Barbarians ; for the Sultan re 1175
penting that he had ler his Prey flip out of the Net,
had giv'n his Men Leave to continue their. Hoftilities
as before the Peace: Thoſe of them that had loaden
themſelves with Booty, went home with it; the
others follow'd the Romans in Parties, kill'd the Sick
and wounded, and skirmiſht with them till they arriv’d
in their own Dominions. The firſt Stop the Emperor
made was at Chonos, the Birth-place of our Author Ni-
cetas, and the ancient Coloſus, famous by the Epiſtles
of St. Paul, directed to the Chriſtians of that City og
the Frontiers of Caria : Here Manuel refted himſelf And Alpine
after the many Perils and Fatigues which he had under-rival at
gone, and rewarded his Soldiers for their Toils anſwer. Coloffusé
able to the low State of bis Treaſury. From Chones
he march'd to Philadelphia, where he ſtay'd ſometime
to refreth himſelf and his Troops ; and from this Place
he wrote to the Senate of Cinſi antinople to give then
an Account of his Misfortunes : However he boalled
that the very Terror of his Name had oblig'd the In-
fidels to give him Peace, of which he ſent a Copy of
the Articles. He demolitht the Fortifications of Sub-
leum, but he left thoſe of Dorilaum Itanding. The Sul.
tan complaining of it, he anſwer'd, He ſhould not much
mind a Treaty that had been extorted from him by Force.
Though this ſeems to be a piece of Treachery, to which
Manuel was ſomewhat inclin'd; yer if ever Breach of
Treaty was juſtifiabié, 'twas now, the Barbarians hav.
ing firſt broken iç before the Romans go! out of their
Territories, by falling on ſuch as were ſick and wound.
ed, and could not defend themſelves,
The Turk order'd Atapachus, his General, to invade
the Empire with his Army, conſiſting of 24000 Men,
and walte the Country to the Sia Coalls; from whenc-the Turks
he commanded him to bring him fome Salt Water, Sand break the
and an Oar, to Mew he had been there. Atapachus de Pedce.
ftrcy'd ſeveral Cities on she Banks of the Meander,
took Tralles and Antioch, now cail'd Tachiali, a little.
City on that River ; not that which Rasmund govern'u.
He alſo maſter d Luma, Pentuchira, 20d other Forts,
and ruin'd the Province of Phrygia. The Empe os
imitating in this the Sultan, his Enemy, would not
S
manage
1
1
258
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
--
::
A. D. manage the War in Perſon, but fent John Batazes, his
1175. Nephew, Son of N. Comnena, and Theodorus Batazes,
and Conſtantinus Ducas, who had marry'd his Siſter's
Daughter, with Forces to drive the Infidels out of the
Province, ordering them to avoid coming to a Battle,
unleſs they were fure of Succeſs. Batazes led his Ar-
my to Hyelium, and underſtanding that Atapachus had
fulfilld his Maſter's Orders, and plunder'd the Coun-
try as far as the Sea-Coaſts, he divided his Forces into
two Bodies, the one he laid in Ambuſh in a Place
through which the Turks muſt pals, and the other he
poſted on the other side of the Meander, to cut off their
Recreat. The Romans charging the Barbarians in a
Place that was diſadvantageous to them: Atapachus ad-
vanc'd at the Head of ſome ſelect Troops, to make
way for the reſt to paſs the River : He fought with
extream Reſolution and Skill, till he heard the Romans
had another Army on the other side of the River; his
Courage began then to cool, and he endeavour'd to
find out a Ford, and fearing to be purſu'd, he put him-
felf into his Buckler, as into a Boat, made uſe of his
Sword inſtead of a Rudder, and ſo paſt cver the Ri.
ver, holding his Horſe by the Bridle ; the Beaſt ſwam
after him, and thus both got to the oppoſite Shoar,
where when he had put Foot to Ground, be calld out
to his Soldiers, and told them his Name, that they
might follow him; but an Alan, who ſerv'd in the Ro-
mon Army, coming up to him, kill'd him. His Solo
diers were ſo diſorder'd by his Death, that the Romans
eally diſperit them, moſt of them were drown'd in the
and cre
Meander, and the reſt were kill'd. This Victory
defeated rais'd the Reputation of the Romans, and humbled the
by the Ro-Barbarians, who had boaſted to lay all Phrygia waſte
with Fire and Sword.
The Turks were not ſo diſcourag'd, but they conti-
nu'd to make Inroads into the Empire : Againſt whom
Manuel ſent Catidus, who doubting he had not Troops
enough to maſter them, gave out that the Emperor
was approaching ; at which the Infidels fled away in
great Confternation, and Catidus loft an Opportunity
of defeating them, bis Forces being ſuperior to the
Turks. Manuel was ſo enrag'd at him for it, that
when he came home, he crdei'd bis Noſe to be cut off.
Ano
1
mans.
}
Chap. VI.
Manuel
259
6
A. D.
1175
Andronicus Angelus and Manuel Cantacuzents were next
ſent to carry on the War with them: The former was
lo afraid of the Barbarians ever ſince the Battle of Sy.
lirza, that at the very Rumour of their coming upon
him he fled to Chonos, and thence to Laodicea, leaving
His Army to themſelves. The Soldiers aſtoniſht at the
Abſence of their General, had diſperſt, if Cantacuzenus
had not by his Prudence and Courage perſuaded and
frightend them into Obedience : He retreated with
inconſiderable Loſs into the Empire. The Emperor
orde'rd that Andronicus ſhould be led through Conftan.
tinople in a Woman's Habit, and was with much Diffi-
culey prevaild upon by his Relations to pardon him.
The Turks having beſieg'd Claudiopolis, and reduc'd ic
to the laſt Extremity, the Emperor, itaying for no E-
. quipage befides his Horſes and Arms, paſs d the Euxine,
travelld Night and Day through Bithynia, and came
to the Relief of the City. The Infidels ſeeing his Stan-
dards approaching, broke up, and fled with Confu-
lion.
Tho' Manuel had compos'd his Affairs a little in the
Éaft, his Mind was not the more quier for it: He had
provok'd the Weſtern Princes, eſpecially the Germans,
by his Treachery to Conrade in the ſecond Croiſade.
Frederick 'Barbaroula, who ſucceeded Conrade, the Ger-
man Emperor, was a Prince of a Daring, Ambitious
Temper, and threarning to bring all Italy under his
Obedience, Manuel began to be apprehenſive that he
might in Time think of revenging his Unkle Conrade's
ill Uſage in Greece ; he therefore affifted the Milaneſe
in their Wars with tliat Prince, and rais'd him up ſo
many Enemies in Italy, that he had no Leiſure to di-
ffurb his Dominions in thie Eat. When ſome of Man
nuel's Ministers advis'd him to inind his Affairs in Alia
more, and trouble himſelf leſs about thoſe in the Veit,
which did not immediately concern hini, he told them, He
ccuild with a little Money keep the Turks quiet, who were
a poor People, whereas the vidſtern Narions were formi.
dable by their Numbers, fierce and cruel by Nature, rich;
and Enemies to the Roman Empire. He was at a vaſt
Expence to carry on his Intrigues in the Weſt, and to
fupply the Charge, burthen'd his Subjects with heavy
I:ripoſitions, the more gricocus, becauſe they thought
Sie
they
260
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
with Impo-
A.,D. they were necdleſs. He ſcrap'd up the Treaſures of
1175. his People by, new and unheard of Taxes to fill his
Exchequer: He ſold Places, and impoveriſht his moſt
fruitful Provinces : His Officers, knowing his Wants,
levy'd the Taxes with unuſual Severity, and the Mo-
nies ſo rais’d were ſquander'd away on his Friends in
Italy, or his Relations in Greece, who conſum'd im.
Manuel
menſe Sums to ſupport their Grandeur. His Nieca
burdens his Theodora, with whom he maintain'd an inceſtuous
Subjets
Converſation, liv'd in as much State as the Empreſs;
fitiuris.
her Court and Equipage were as Splendid, her Train
as Numerous, and her Pride as Great : She never
came to the Imperial Pallace without ſending Norice
of it that every one there might be prepar'd to receive
her with Ceremony ; and her son, whom ſhe had by
her Unkle, ſpent a World of Wealth on his Vanity
His Pro- and Pleaſures. The Emperor was alſo profuſe to his
fuſion to
Eunuchs, and particularly to Foreigners, to whom he
bis Niece
gave Money, Plate, and rich Furniture without Mea-
Theodora
ſure: He made Strangers Judges and Receivers of his
ani orbers.
Fevenues, ſeldom calling them to an Account, or en-
His Cha- quiring how they diſcharg'd the Truſts committed to
Filter them. He built ſeveral.Churches and Houſes of Plea.
ſure, and was a great Encourager of the Liberal Arts,
In Time of War he was indefatigable in the Profecu-
tion of his Undertakings. No Fatigue baulkt hini,
nor Danger frighten'd him: He endur'd alike the Ex-
tremities of Heat and Cold, and would be contented
to ſeep on a Mat : In Time of Peace he delighted in
Feaſting and Mulck. Thus, ſays Nicetas, thoſe that
faw him at the Head of his Armics, pould be apt to
think that he was an Enemy to Pleaſure ; and thoſe that
fam him in his Pallace only, would imagine be made Lux-
ury his chiefeſt Good. He forbad thar Monks ſhould
injny Lands and any worldly Poffeffions thar
were not mcveable. As licentious as he was in the
Courſe of his Life, he pretended to a great deal of
Zeal for Religion ; and indeed in thoſe Days of Dark-
neſs and Superfticion, Religion and Licence went fre:
quently together, the Greeks as well as the Latins havo
ing a ſtrange Way of reconciling Vice and Virtue,
which mult certainly proceed froin the little Know-
ledge they had of the Divine Laws, and their high E-
Atsen
t
Chap. VI.
Manuel.
1
261
4 Cilte.
fteem of their Priefts Abſolutions, which being to be A. D.
bought for Money or Places, the Emperors might at any 1975:
Time purchaſe Peace of Conſcience, and fatter thein-
felves with a vain Conceit, that a little Warmth in
the outward Parts of the Chriſtian' Profeffion
would compenſate for all their private Impurities.
He wrote a Catechiſm, and pronounc'd it himſelf
before the People : This he might do perhaps in Ile writes
Imitation of the Mahometan Sultans, who are oblig'd
chijn.
to read and expound their Law. He was ſo much a
Friend to their Religion, that he would very fain have
raz'd out an Anathema, which was in the Greek Ca.
techiſm, againſt the God of Mahomet : He made a De-
cree to that Purpoſes and wrote in Defence of it. The
Clergy would not agree to it. The Emperor argu'd
that the God of Mahomet was too ſtrong an Expreſſion,
and border'd on Blaſphemy. Whether his Arguments
had any Weight in them in the Opinion of the Bihops,
we cannot decide ; certain it is that they agreed as
laſt to pronounce the Anathoma againſt Mabomet and
his Doctrine, and pot againſt his God, which put an End
to the Diſpute. Never was ſuch an Appearance of Pie-
ry compounded with ſuch immoral Practices as in the
Perſon of this Emperor ; for at the ſame Time that he
was cruel, treacherous, inceſtuous, and lewd, he
would diſcourſe publickly on the moſt ſublime Marrers
of Religion, and of the Nature of God; he would pro-
pore Doubts on the difficult Paſſages of Scripture, and
afſemble Divines to be reſolv'd, when he liv'd in the nor
torious Breach of the plain Laws and undoubted Com.
mandments of Heaven. His Curioſity carry'd him ſo
far, that he famerimcs fell into Heterodox Notions in
his Principles, as he was a Libertisie in his Practices,
If bis Liberality was Profufion, his Zeal Hypocris
fie, and his Juſtice Cruelty, there is but one good Qua-
lity that will be allow'd to be ſuch in this Prince,
which was his Valour; for that he was as Drave and
Intrepid as any Man of his Time, his Enemies must
own, and yet even his Bravery had a Mixture of Te.
merity, which oughe not to be found in the Compofi,
zion of a Hero.
Having done with his Character, we ſhall conclude
this History of his Reign with an Account of his Denih,
S3
tie
..
262
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VI.
1
A. D. He fell Gick in March, when he was in the Heightb of
1175. his Diſpute about the Anathema in the Catechiſm:
In May he found himſelf a little better, and when he
was advis'd to declare his Will concerning his Succeffor,
he ſaid he ſhould live fourteen Years longer, the Aſtro-
logers, with whom he conſulted in all his emergent
Affairs, having afſur'd him that he ſhould ſoon recover
perfect Health, live a Life of Pleaſure, conquer Ci.
ties, and triumph over all his Enemies for fourteen Years
yet to come. They' had foretold dreadful Earthquakes,
Hurricanes, and terrible Revolutions in the Globe,
which Predictions were ſuddenly to come to paſs, and
were to confirm thoſe that related to the Emperor's
Life and Glory. Manuel, to avoid the univerſal Ruin
that threaten'd Mankind, order'd Caverns to be cut
out of Rocks for his Retreat in that dreadful Hour,
and his Relations and Courtiers fell to digging of Caves
to hide themſelves in it: But theſe vain Illuſions were
diſcover'd to be Impoftures in September, when the
Emperor, growing worſe and worſe, believ'd his End
was approaching; he then calls for Alexius, his Son,
and talk to him about the great Charge he was about
to leave him, with Tears in his Eyes: By the Advice
of the Patriarch he recanted his Opinion touching judi-
cial Aſtrology, which by ſad Experience he found to
be deceitful; he then fetch'd a deep Groan, ftruck his
Thigh, and call'd out for the Habit of a Monk; fo
much was that Age infatuated with a Conceir of the
Sanctity of that Garment, that they fancy'd 'twould
cover all their Sins at the laſt Tremendous Day : The
Habit was preſently brought him, his Imperial Robes
pu!I'd off, and the Holy Garment put on, which was
not long enough for his Body, and ar another Time
His Dails would have made a very ridiculous Figure. He dy'd
On the 22d in a ſhort Time after he had taken the Monkith Habit,
in the 38th Year of his Reign, the 29th of Frederick
1780. Barbárouill, Emperor of Germiny, the 26th of Henry
the 24, King of England, Four Days after Lewis the
gih, King of France, and the 21th of the long Pon,
tificate of Alexander the 2d, A, D, uso,
of Sep
Alexius
*
Chap. VỊ.
263
Alexius II.
A. D.
1180,
Alexius II.
1
1
M Anuel Comnenis being dead, his Son Alexius, a Child
of about eleven Years of Age, ſucceeded liim in the
Imperial Throne, under the Guardianſhip of his Mo-
ther Mary, Daughter of Raymund, Prince of Antioch,
who preferr’d whom the pleasd to the Adminiſtration
of the Publick Affairs, and they to uſe our Author's Nicetas,
Words, governd the State, as Phaeton guided the Cha-
riot of the Sun, to the Ruin of themſelves and the
Empire. His Relations neglecting the Care of the
young Emperor's Education, which his Mother coin-
mitted to their Charge, minded only their Pleaſures
and Amours; ſome of them, who were well with the
Empreſs, ſpent whole Days with her in Dancing and
all Sorts of Effeininate Diverſions; others conſum'd
the Publick Treaſures on their Luſts and Extrvagan-
cies elſewhere, and others were giv'n up entirely to an
immoderate Deſire of Rule, governing all Tbings Are
bitrarily, to the Oppreſſion of both Nobility and Com-
monalty.
Alexius Cornenus, Son of Andronicus Comnenus, the
late Emperor, Manuel's Bgother, a Man of a Haughty
Imperious Temper, having gain'd the good Graces of
the Regent, ſhe made him Preſident of the Council,
in which Office he aſſum'd ſuch a Power, that the Em-
peror's Friends were alarm'd, and fear'd he aim'd to
have ir abſolute and independant.
Andronicus Comnenus, whom we have often menti-
Androni
ond for his Gallantry and Preſumption, was at Oen? um, cus com-
where he reſided, when he heard of the Emperor Mo- nenus's
nuel's Death, and Alexius's Succeſſion to the Throne. Fortuner
Not long after he was inform’d of the ill State of Affiirs
in the Rom:193 Court, of the Differences among the
Princes, and the Tyrihny of the Prefident. On this
News his Ainbition was infiam'd, and he conceiv'd
Hopes of making his Fortune by the Deſtruction of
the preſent Miniſtry, in which he perceiv'd he thould
be aſlifted by a powerful Party, whom the preſent
Maie-Adminiſtration had made Energies to the Miniſters,
4
To
264
Tlse Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
t
1
A.D. To clear the Hiſtory of Andronicus, we muſt look back
uso,
where we left bim in the Court of the Sultan of Baby-
lon. Theodora liv'd there with him, and the Emperor
by all his Management could not part them, till he
employ'd Nicephorus Palæologus, Prince of Trebizond,
to effect it. Paleologus lov'd that Princeſs, and as
Love makes Men as ingenious as any other Paſſion
whatſoever, he ſo manag'd the Matter, that Theodora
left her Gallant, went to Conftantinople, and was par-
don'd by the Emperor. Now Andronicus had loſt the
Coinpanion of his. Exile, whoſe Society ſoften'd the
Hardſhips he endur’d, he was the more eaſily prevailid
with to throw hiinſelf at the Emperor's Feet, who was
very deſirous to have him out of the Hands of the Infi.
dels, knowing his bufie aſpiring Soul would never ler
him reſt till he had engag'd the Sultan in a War. Andro-
nicus therefore, having obrain'd an Aſſurance that whate-
ver.had paft ſhould beforgot, came to Manuel's Court, and
being as cunning as he was amorous or ambitious, af-
fected to fhew an extraordinary Sorrow for his paſt
Offences; he put a Chain about his Neck, hid it under
his Robe, and approaching the Emperor, proftrated
himſelf at his Feet, mew'd his Chain, wept bitterly,
and fighing begg'd Pardon in a moſt pityful manner.
Manuel was to touch'd at the Sight, that he could not
forbear weeping, and commanded him to riſe. Andro-
picus reply'd he would never riſe till he had been
dragg'd to the Foot of the Throne by that Chain.
Iſaac Angelus, Son of Andronicus Angelus, whom we
have mention'd in the former Reign, was choſen to do
tbar Office ;' and Andronicus Comnenus perſiſting that
he would be ſo dragg'd to hew his Humility and Re-
pentance, Ifaac did it by the Emperor's Order ; which
is the more remarkable, becauſe he was the Man who
afterwards flung him from the ſame Throne, to which
he had dragg'd him, when he uſurpe it. Though Mi-
nuel and Aridronicus were chus ſecmingly reconcild, yet
the former did not think fit to ſuffer him to refide at
Conftantinople; left he might form a Party there, or the
Toogues of Court-Informers ſhould breed new Diffe-
spres between them, ſo he was order'd to live at Oce
meborn in a ſort of Priſon at large ; from whence he re.
mov'ul when he was inform'd of the young Emperor
Alex-
Chap. VI.
265
Alexius II.
{
By nus's Ty-
Alexius's Debaucheries, and the Negligence of his Mi- A.D.
niſters: He went from that City to Paphlagonia, and 1180.
wrote to the Emperor, his Couſin, to the Patriarch,
and to all the Perſons of Quality, who, as he thought, He con-
had any Reſpect for the Memory of Manuel, the late ſpires e-
Emperor, That be lamented the Diſorders in the Court.geinſt the
and wiſht the Empreſs's Favour to the Prcfident mas a young Em-
little moderated. His Letters were full of Quotations peror s Mi-
out of St. Paul's Epiſtles, for whoſe Writings he pre-wiſters.
tended to have a particular Veneration, and he ſhew'd
in them ſuch a Concern for the Good of the Srare,
that he was eſtcem'd by almoft all to whom he wrore
them to be an extraordinary Patriot. While he was
in Paphlagonia, all that lov'd Changes came in to bim ;
Alexius
ſome out of Hopes to mend the Fortune of the Stare,
Conine-
but many more with a Deſign to berrer their own.
this Means in a little while he found himſelf in a Con-rannical
dition to diſpute the Matter with the Preſident by Admini-
Arm's.
Arations
In the mean Time the Regent's Favourite was arriv'd
to ſuch a Heighth of Power, that he would ſuffer no
Favour to deſcend from the Throne on any one but
whom he pleas'd, and procur'd an Imperial Edict, that
all Parents whatſoever ſhould be of no Force unleſs he
firſt perus’d and conſented to them: He was more ab.
ſolute than the Laws allow'd even the Emperor to be,
though 'twas hard to know what was not in the Impe-
rial Prerogative to do ; for this Reaſon the whole
Ciry looke upon Andronicus as the riſing Star that was
to diſperſe this black Cloud: The Chiefs of the Citi-
zens wrote to him, praying him to haften their Deli-
verance by his Preſence, and to aſſure him they were
all ready to join with him. Mary; the late Emperor's
Daughter, and the Prince of Montferrat, on whom M1-
Tbe Ros
nuel had conferr'd the Dignity of Cefar ar his Marriage
nians 2p-
with the Princeſs, animated him in his Undertaking ply to
more than any one elſe ; the could not endure the Ty-dronicus
ranny of the Preſident, and was at the Head of a Con- for Redreſs.
ſpiracy compos'd of her Friends and Andronicus's, to
promote his Deſigns, tho' every Step ſhe made towards
it was in the Way to her Deſtruction. The Chief of
theſe Conſpirators were Alexius, Manuel's Natural Son
by his Niece Theodora, Fobn and Manuel, Andronicus's
[WO
.
1
*
266
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VỊ.
A. D. two Sons, Andronicus Laparda, Fohannes Camaterus,
1180. Governor of Conſtantinople, and others of the Firſt
Quality ; which Conſpiracy being diſcover'd, the
Conſpirators were ſeiz'd, and loaden with Irons, all,
except the Princeſs Mary, who fled to the great
Church, and by her Tears drew Pity from the Patri.
arch, bis. Clergy, and all the People, who heard her
Complaints : She was very liberal to them, ſcattering
Money among the Multitude to engage them in her
Intereits ; by this Means ſhe got ſo powerful a Party
in the City, that when the Regent and the Preſident
fent to offer her a Pardon, the defpis'd it ; on the
contrary the requir'd that the Conſpirarors ſhould be ſer
at Liberty, and the Preſident, who by his deteſtable
Crimes had diſhonour'd her Family, mould be banifat
the Court ; which the Empreſs would not hear of,
ſticking as cloſe to him as the Ivy to the Vine. The
Miniſter's threatend to take her out of the Church by
The Eni- Force if ſhe would not come thence willingly. The
peror's si-Princeſs, expecting Violence, arm'd ſome of her
Ster Mary Friends, and plac'd them as her Guards at the Church
Dour, changing the Houſe of Prayer to a Den of
Thieves : She alſo rais'd Soldiers, Romans and Fo-
Pefence. reigners, rejecting all peaceable Counſels
, and ſtopping
her Ears to the Advice of the Patriarch.
The Citizens of Conftantinople aſſembled every Day
in Companies to Diſcourſe of the Publick Affairs;
they raild at the Preſident, and picy'd the hard Uſage
of the Princeſs Mary, crying out againſt the Empreſs.
Three Prieſts, the Trumpets of Sedition in thoſe Days,
began the Tumult thar follow'd, the one holding the
Image of our Saviour in his Hand, the other a Croſs,
and the other a Banner, gather'd the People together,
and exhorted them to ſpeak well of the Emperor, buc
not to ſpare the Empreſs, nor the Preſident. Theſe
Diſorders continuing feveral Days, the Rabble became
ſo Furious, that they Plander'd. the Houſes of the
Friends of the Regent, and her Favourite : The Pre-
fident reſolving to ſuppreſs the Inſurrection before it
Aiegius
ettacks the grew too ſtrong for bim, began with the Princeſs
whom he attack'd in the great Church, with the Ema
Forces in
the great preſs's Guards: Her Soldiers made a vigorous Reli-
Curch. ſtance; the Skirmiſh lafted a whole Day, and many
Mer
Atis in
ber 02092
1
Chap. VI.
267
Alexius II.
She accepts
Men were killd on both ſides : The next Day, the A.D.
Princeſs's Husband Rayner brought her a Re-inforcement 1180,
of One Hundred and Fifty Men, all of them her Do-
meſticks, and the Fight was renew'd, but the Preſident
having freſh and numerous Supplies from the Palace,
would have ended the Diſpute to his Advantage, had
not the Patriarch mediated an Accommodation be-
Eween the Empreſs, and her Daughter-in-Law, Conte-
of a Para
ſtophanes prevaild with her to accept of a Pardon for
don, 11819
her felf and her Friends, upon which the came forth
of the Church, and return'd to Court with her Hus-
band.
This Accident happend in May, eight Months after
the Emperor's Death. Theodofius, the Patriarch, was
the firſt who felt the weight of the Prefident's Ven-
geance for his favouring the Princeſs Mary's Intereſt.
He procur'd falſe Witneſſes to accuſe him of Treaſon,
as being concern'd in the late Conſpiracy and Rebel-
lion, and had him ſhut up in a Monaltery; but his In.
nocence was ſo apparent to every one, that he was
forc'd to conſent to his Re-eſtabliſhment in his Holy
Office, and the Citizens Rejoycings ar his Return were
equal to thoſe at a Triumph.
The Princeſs Mary having recover'd her Liberty,
went over to Andronicus in Paphlagonia, to ſollicit his And flies ta
Return to Conftantinople, and inform him of the State Androni
When be underſtood in what readineſs Things cus.
were for his Reception, he remov'd to Heraclea, a City
on the Coaſt of the Euxine, Capital of the Province
of Pontus, lying between Paphlagonia and Bithynia.
He drew nearer
to Conſtantinople as his Forces increas'd,
and by his falſe Speeches, feign'd Tears and artificial
Diffimulation, he drew a Multitude of Perſons of all
Conditions after him. His Eyes were always full of
Tears, and his Zeal for the Publick Welfare Teem'd to
be
equally warm and diſorereſted.
In the mean time the Preſident, who naturally lov'd
his Eaſe, did nor wholly Make off his Sloch, but de-
pending on the Protection, and above all, on the
Charms of the Empreſs, which gain'd her the Hearts of
all chat beheld her, he did not much change bis Courſe
of Life, notwithſtanding Andronicus was advancing to
wards Nice. He beliey'd the Beauty and engaging Hu..
mour
"
a
268
The Roman Hiſtory. : Chap. VI.
A. D. mour of the Regent, would provide her Friends e-
1181. nough to ſupport her, and himſelf was ſafe while ſhe
was lo.
John Ducas, the Grand Domeſtick, Governor of Nice
ſhut the Gates of that City againſt Andronicus, who
marching to Caracum, met Andronicus Angelus, Father
of Iſaac, with an Army to oppoſe his Paſſage. Theſe
Forces Cornnenus eafily defeated. Angelus returning to
Conſtantinople, was callid to an Account for the Mo-
neys he had receiv'd for the Charge of the War; and
having not a very good One to give, he made his Ef-
cape to Andronicus Comnenus, with his fix Sons. The
Preſence of theſe Noblemen encourag'd Comncnus's Par-
ty, who neglecting Nice and Nicomedia, advanc'd to-
wards Chalcedon in their way to Conſtantinople. They
encamp'd near the City of Chalcedon, and made greas
Fires in their Camp, that the Inhabitants on the other
ſide of the Streights might think their Army more nume.
Androni-
cus arrives sous than really it was. The People were glad to ſee
that Comnenus was come ſo near, and got up to the tops
a Chal-
cedon.
of the Hills to view the oppoſite Shoar, where he lay,
ſeerning to invite him to haſten over.
The Preſident finding that he could not ſtop his Enes
my by Land, reſolv'd to diſpute his Paſſage by Sea. To
this end he equip'd the Imperial Fleer, man'd it with
Romans and Strangers ; and confiding in the latter
more than in his Countrymen, he diſtribuced his Mo-
ney more bountifully among them. He would fain
have given the Command of his Fleet to one of his Re-
Jations, but Conteſtophanes's Quality and Character,
being Grand Duke, or Lord High Admiral of the Em-
pire, oblig'd bim to give it to him, who demanded it
as his Right: However, he fent ſome of his Friends to
Sea with hiin, to obſerve his Conduct. He ſent Am,
baffadors to Andronicus with Letters from the Empe-
ror, offering him Places and Dignities if he would ceale
his Revolt and rerurn to his Dury. He anſwer'd, the
Emperor muſt then call the Preſident to an account for
nis Male Administration, have the Empreſs fhorn and
shut up in a Cloyſter, and take the Government upon
bimſelf, as his Father had order'd by his Will. A few
Days after Conteſtophanes went over to Andronicus with
the whole Fleet, which threw the Preſident into Defy
pair.
Chap. VỊ.
Alexius II.
269
1
pair. The Friends of Andronicus Comnenus in Conſtan- A. D.
tinople, talk'd publickly in Favour of his Cauſe, and 1381.
croſsd over to him to Chalcedon without any Molefta.
tion, where they were charmd with his fair Pretences The Chief
and kind Behaviour to all that addreſs'd to bim. John Miniſter
and Manuel, Andronicus's Sons, were deliver'd out of
Priſon, and thoſe the Preſident had prefer'd, put in
their Places. The Preſident himſelf was ſeiz'd by the Alexius
Engliſh Guards, and all his Faction at Court appre- is feipd.
hended and impriſon'd. The Preĝdent giving his Keep-
ers hard Words, the rude Soldiers would not let him
fleep, and tormented him before he had had his Con-
demnation from Andronicus. Being mounted on an or-
dinary Horſe with a Napkin ty'd to a Stick, carry'd be-
fore him in inſolene Pomp, he was led down to the
Sea-lide, pur on Ship-board and tranſported to Chalce- And blin.
don, where his Eyes were put our by Andronicus's Or. ed by order
der, from whom he might have expected more Mer- of Andro-
cy, on account of bis Familiarity with his Šifter Eu- nicus.
doxia.
Such was the End of the Preſident's Domination,
who wanted neither Courage nor Skill in War, and
might have hinder'd Andronicus's coming to Conftantino-
ple, had he got Troops together in time. He had Mo-
ney, Ships and Men at his Command; bur bis evil Des
ſtiny funk his Spirit, and that ruin'd his Fortune.
The Latins, who were hir'd by the Empreſs, made
fome Oppoſition ſtill in Conſtantinople. Againſt them
Andronicus ſent Conteſtophanes with ſome choſen Troops,
and the Citizens riſing upon the Latins in Conjunction
with the Grand Duke's Forces, the Mercenaries were
oblig'd ro dilperſe : Some of them pillag'd the Giri-
zens Houſes, and got on Ship-board; others hid in
the Palaces, where, when they were diſcover'd, they
were killd; and thoſe that were on Board the Galleys
landed at the Princes. Iſand, the Iſland of Prota and o.
ther Iles, where they burnt Monafterics, Villages,
robd and kill'd the inhabitants, and retir'd without a-
ny Oppoſition.
Ar this time a terrible Come: appear'd, and was a
dire Preſage of the ſad Times Andronicus was bringing
along with him, all the Perſons of Quality going over
to Chalcedon to wait on him, the Pacriarca nor to be
fingular,
}
+
1
370
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VỈ.
A.D. fingular, croſsd the Bofphorus, and was receiv'd by
1181. the Prince with all manner of Reſpect; but Theodofius
diſcovering the Serpent that lay hid under the Flower;
was ſullen and diſſatisfy'd. Andronicus croſſing * the
Streights, paſt over to Conſtantinople. Alexiųs the
Emperor, and his Mother, remov'd from the Iniperia!
Palace to that of Mangana, to make room for him.
Androni- As ſoon as he arriv'd he went to viſit them, fell at the
cus arrives Emperor's Feet and bath’d them with his 'Tears. He
At Con-
itantino-
ſpent ſome time with him in the Park calld Filopas,
ples
and then deſir'd to go to Conſtantinople, to viſit the
Emperor Manuel's Tomb; when he came to the Place
he wept bitterly, and cry'd out aloud. Thoſe that did
not know what a Cheat he was, ſaid one to another,
Tis wonderful to ſee that he would love a Relation, who
usd him so ill, so tenderly. Some of his Friends who
were near him, telling him he had griev'd enough, and
defiring him to retire, he reply'd, Pray give me a little
time to Converſe with his dead Body. And then lifting
up his Hands as if he was Praying to Heaven, and fix-
ing his Eyes ſtedfaftly on the Tomb, he ſaid ſomething.
to himſelf, fo low, that no Body could hear it: Some
pretended 'rwas a Charm; but thoſe who gave the beſt
Gueſs, affirm'd 'twas an Imprecation in theſe Words,
I have thee faſt now, my cruel Perfecutor, by whom I was
made a Wanderer and a Vagabond in the Earth, and who
expos’d me to the Contempt of the whole World : Thou
art rom faft in thy Tomb, and in a Sleep, out of which
thore Malt never make. In the mean while I will fall on
thy Family, as a Lion takes hold of his Prey, and revenge
on them all the Injuries I receiv'd from thee.
Andronicus was no ſooner in Poſſeſſion of the Go:
Take s on vernment, chan he exercis'd hisPower more abſolutely,
him the and arbitrarily, than his Predeceſſor, in the Miniſtry,
Gavern had done before him. He prefer'd and rewarded all
thoſe that had affifted him, and diſcotintenanc'd ſuch as
had had any Share in the late Adminiſtration, tho
their Innocence and Merit tender'd them worthy bis
Truſt and Confidence for the Good of the State. The
Chief Perſons of the Empire were loaden with Irons,
and ſome had their Eyes put our, without having any
Groits Ty-Crime laid to their Charge. Johannes Cantacuzenú s tem
tannicilo lared to the Imperial Family, has blinded only for
helping
Hent.
4
Chap. VỊ.
Alexius II.
21
A. D.
118
r
helping his Brother-in-Law, Constantinus Angelus, to
eſcape out of Priſon, where he lay in Chains for a very
ſmall Offence. The Princeſs Mary and her Husband,
Prince Raynor, were Poiſon'd by his Procurement;
and he would have Marry'd Irene, a Daughter he had
by his inceſtuous Commerce with Theodora Comnena to
the Emperor. A Synod fitting at the ſame time, he
wrote this Queſtion, and propos'd it to them. If a.
Marriage, that is not Scandalous, 'or but very little fo,
and which would contribute to the reconciling the East
and Weſt to the Deliverance of Priſoners, and would be on
therwiſe very advantagious, might be contracted. The
Father's fervilely complying with what they knew
would pleaſe him, inclin'd to anſwer the queſtion in
the Affirmative; but the Patriarch declar'd aloud againſt
it ; and apprehending the cruel Effects of Andrones
cus's Revenge, left his Parriarchal Chair and ſhur bim-
ſelf up in a Monaſtery he had built at Terebint a. When
he was gone be put Bafilius Camaterus in his Place,
who was ſo much a Slave to his Ambition, as to proo
miſe by Writing to do whatever be would have him:
And now the Emperor, who had in his Father's Reigni
been Marry'd to Agnes, Daughter of Lewis VII. King
of France, then living at Conſtantinople, was Marry'd
to Theodora Comnena's Daughter, Irene.
While the Tyrant exercis'd all manner of Cruelty on
the Romans in the Imperial City, the Provinces were
waited by the Barbarians. The Sultan of Iconium,
who was afraid of Manuel, when he heard he was dead,
invaded the Empire, and took Sozopolis, Attalia and
other Cities in Phrgyia, ſubdu'd ſeveral Provinces, and
oblig'd the Inhabitants to ſwear Fidelity to him. John
Batazes, Sirnam'd Comnenus from bis Mosher, Aunt to
the Emperor, who commanded the Armies in the Eaſt,
declar'd againſt Andronicus, deipis'd his Orders and
abhor d his Government. He was a Brave and Expe-
rienc'd Soldier, and very much belov'd by the Citizens
of Philadelphia, where he reſided. The Eaſtern Peo-
ple flock'd in to him, and he ſoon found himſelf in a
Condition to diſpute the Miniſtry with Andronicus, who
fent Andronicus Laparda againſt him with what Forces
he could raiſe. The cwo Armies deſtroy'd the Eat-
ern Provinces, and the two Parcies filled the Cities with
Diviſions
!
A
+
1
L
1
--
1272
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A.D. Diviſions and Slaughter. Batazes encamp'd near Phin
1118. ladelphia, and was taken ill'in his Camp: However,
he order'd himſelf to be carry'd forth in his Bed, when
Lapar da approach'd to engage him, gave his Sons, Ma-
nuel and Alexius, Directions how to draw up their
Army, and to behave themſelves in the Battle, and
committed the Charge of that Day's Action to them,
who obtain'd a compleat Victory over Laparda. A
few Days after Batazes Died, and the Philadelphians
ſent to make their Submiſſions to Andronicus. Manuel
and Alexius, bis Sons, fled firft to the Sultan of Iconi-
um, who ſhewing no great Inclination to protect them,
they intended to fly to the King of Sicily, but were
apprehended at Crete, and their Eyes put out by order
of the Tyrant.
To diſguiſe his wicked Intentions, Andronicus caus'd
the young Emperor to be ſolemnly Crown'd, and then
he began to perſecure his Mother, whom he charg'd
with Conſpiring againſt the Empire, by exciting Bela,
King of Hungary, to ſeize Branizova and Belgrade
Falle Witneſſes were ſworn to prove the Fact, and Me
The Emo
was, thrown into a noiſome Priſon, where ſhe was al-
preſs Dow- moft ftarv'd, and ſhamefully inſulted by her Guards.
ager im- At laſt he procurd corrupt Judges to pronounce Sen-
prilas'd.
tence of Condemnation againſt her, and compelld the
Emperor to Sign ic. He orderd Manucl, his Son, tó
ſee the Execution done ; but that Prince refus'd the
Barbarous Commiſſion, at which he fell into a furious
Paffion, deploring his Misfortune, for that he had nor
one Friend who would commit a Murder for him.
Conſtantinus Tripſichus the Heteriarch, or Captain of
1182. the Guards of Foreigners, and Previgyonitus the Eunuch,
And ſeeing him in ſuch a Fury, undertook the Deed, ſtran-
hur derdi gild her and burý'd her on the Shoar of the Bosphorus
the 27th of Auguſt, 1182.
The Princes and Chief Perſons of the Empire groan-
ing under the Tyranny of this wicked Prince, Con•
d how to eaſe themſelves of ſo heavy a Burthen ;
but before their Conſpiracy was brought to Perfection,
Androriicus knew of 'it. The Principal Conſpirators
cre the Family of the Angeli, and that of Conteſtopha-
nos, B.ufi!ius Camaterus the Port-Maſter General, and
others. The Angeli living near the Sea-ſide, embark'd
1
On
t
Chap. VI.
273
Alexius II.
}
on board a Ship in the Haven, and made their eſcape. A. D.
Conteſtophanes, his four Sons and Bafilius, were takin 1182.
and had their Eyes put out ; many more were. ( on: Androni-
demn'd without Proof, to the fame Puniſhment. The cus's Cru-
Tyrant rejoycing that he had an opportunity to Ruin thoſe ties to
he hared, Impriſon'd ſome, Banih'd others, put others the Nobili-
to Death, and glutred his Revenge on the Friends of the ty.
Imperial Family then Reigning. Having remov'd them
our of the way, he thought 'twas a fit time for him to al-
ſume the Imperial Title and Ornaments, which he on-
ly wanted to render him an abſolute Emperor, for the
Power was already in his Hands; and he effected his
Uſurpation in this manner.
A Company of Raſcals whom he had hir'd for that
purpoſe, mer together in the City, and talkt of the Se-
dition in Bithynia, where Iſaac Angelus had appear'd
with a murinous Multitude ; and of John Cantacuzenus's
Reception at Nice; and Theodorus Angelus's ar Prufias,
Who were all Eneinies to the Government, and they
ſaid the only way to ſettle the Diſorders in the State, was
to raiſe Andronicus to the Throne, whoſe Age and Wif-
dom were more likely to Govern the Einpire well, than
the Youth and Inexperience of a Boy. That there was
no time to be loſt, and if others would not Conſent to it
willingly, they would force them to it. Having ſaid
this, they Cry'd our, Long Live Alexius and Androni-
cus, Roman Emperors. The Rabble hearing theſe H is prou
Shouts, got together in an inſtant, inſulted the Senators, cluin'd
and rais'd a Tumult, that the Emperor's Friends ſaw Emperor by
was not to be appeas’d. The young Prince invited the the R&56!.
old Tyrant to ſhare the Imperial Power with him, and
the moſt Zealous of Andronicus's Faction carry'd him to
the Throne, took off the Robes he wore, and put the Iin-
perial Ornaments on himn. The next Day he was pray'd
for in the great Church, as Emperor, and Nam'd before
Alexius, ir being urg'd in his Excuſe, That 'twas nor
decent to put a Boy's Name before an old Man's. When
he was Crown'd, which Ceremony was perform d in
September 1183. he affected to put on a gay ſmiling 133.
Look, as the Promiſe of his mild beneficent Reign, and He is
after the Solemnitý' was over, when he had receit'd Crowni's.
the Holy Bread at the Lord's Supper, and held out his
Hands to take the Cup, he proteſted with a loud Voice,
T
Ho
274
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. Vĩ,
A. D. He would never have accepted of the Empire, had it not
1183. been to aſſiſt bis Couſin Alcxius, and maintain his Autho-
rity. He went out of the Church ſurrounded by a
great Number of Guards, and inſtead of proceeding
fowly to the Palace, as the Emperors usd to do on
theſe Occaſions, he kept his pace as at othertimes, which
was imputed to his Fears, and his Fcars to his Guilt.
The only thing that troubled him now was the Fel.
lowſhip of Alexius, who on the contrary ſeem'd'wel!
pleas'd that he had a Colleague of Andronicus's Age and
Experience: He conſulted with his Ruffians and Coun-
ſellors of Blood how to get rid of the young Prince
His Partner; they all declar'd that One Head was enough
for the Crown, which imply'd that Alexius's was to be
Faken off. Andronicius finding they were ready to exe-
cute his bloody Purpoſes, order'd Stephanus, Agio Chri-
ſtephiritus, Conſtantinus Tripſicus, and Theodorus Bra.
He orders dibrenus to ftrangle him, which they did with a Bow-
the young ftring, and then carry'd his Body to Andronicus, who
Emperor to
be Strang-
defir'd to ſee it, that he might fariate his Cruelty by
ded. viewing it, and ſpurr'd it with his Feer, ſaying, His Fa.
ther was a perjur'd Man, and his Mother a Whore. Mono
fer!'to upbraid the Dead with Crimes of which he was
the most notoriouſly guilty of any Man living. Alexius's
Corps was thrown into the Sea, and his Head preſented
to the Tyrant, who, having gaz'd upon it with Inhu-
man Pleaſure for ſome time, order'd it to be fung into a
1784. Dirch the 19th. of Auguſt 1184, having reign'd about
Four Years, and liv'd almoſt Fifteen, a Youth, whofe
Misfortunes have render'd him an Object of Compaſſion
to Fururity; but who gave no great Hopes of making
any ſhining Figure in the Greek Annals, had his Hiſto-
ry been longer; he enclin'd already to Debauchery and
Extravagance, which are owing to his Father and Mo.
Ther's ill Examples, and there were few good ones for
bis Imitation in thoſe Days.
!
Androni.
Chap. VI.
275
Andronicus.
!
Andronicus,
THE
HÊ firſt remarkable thing the Tyrant did after his Ar D.
Acceſſion to the ſole Poffeffion of the Throne, was 1184.
to Celebrate his Marriage with Agnes, the late King of
France's Daughter, to wbom Alexius was Berroth'd and
Marry'd.
He was then near Seventy Years of Age,
and the Princeſs ſcarce Eleven. To effect chis unnacuc
ral March, he was forc'd to put off Two Wives which
he had already, according to come Authors, but others
report, That he kept them all Three. The Name of
the Firſt we do not find any where mention'd. The Şe-
cond was Philippa, Daughter to Raymund Prince of
Antioch,
And now he was in peaceable Poſſeſſion of
the Empire, he demanded of the Patriarch and the Bi.
ſhops, afſembled in a Synod, to diſcharge him from his
Oath of Fidelity to Manuel and Alexius. He alſo re-
quir'd that' thoſe of his Friends who had taken it, and
might be thought to have infring'd it, ſhould be Abu
ſolv'd. The Biſhops, ſays Nicetas, as if they had the
Power to Bind and Loofe indifferently and without diſtincti.
on, all ſorts of Perſons; Publiſi’da Decree of general Par-
don to them for their Treaſon and Perjury. For which he
Honour'd them with Seats near the Throne ; however
deſping them for their baſe Complacency, contrary to
what he and they knew to be their Duty, he turp'd them
out of their Sears in a little while, and alſo out of his
Favour, leaving them confounded with Shame for har
ing made flight of the Divine Pleaſure, to pleaſe a Prince
that would not be pleas'd with them. Which may ferve
for a Warning to others in thar Holy Office, how they
Sacrifice their Conſciences to their Intereſt, and having
Worldly Advantages and Honours in view, make the
Will of the Prince their ſupream Law, cho' in oppofi-
tion to the Divine Commandments.
When the News of Andronicus's Uſurpation reach'd
the Provinces, 'twas receiv'd every where with Dinike.
The Generals who had taken an Oath to Alexius, could
noc preſently bring themſelves to ſubmit to his Murther-
er. Lapards, who Commanded the Ariny in Hungary,
T 2
which
.
276
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. which was ſent to ſecure Brazinova and Belgrade from
1184. the Attempts of that King, who threaten'd to ſeize thoſe
Cities; intended to declare againſt him with the Forces
he had under bis Command : But Branas, a Chief Offi-
cer under him, tho' he did not approve of the Tyrant's
Uſurpation, yet he did not think it fawful to Rebel al-
gainit him, and he kept the Troops in their Obedience.
Laparda eſcap'd and fled into Aſia, where he had a
great Intereſt, and yet even there the Romans were lo
afraid of Andronicus, that they deferted their old Friend
to pleaſe a new Master: He was taken at Endromitum,
and his Eyes were immediately pluckt out, there being
no Pardon to be expected for ſuch Offences in this
Reign. · The Tyrant was terrify'd at the Report of La-
pardas's Revolt, knowing him to be a Brave and Skil-
ful Commander. He Trembled to think what would
be the end of his Dominion, if it ſhould be taken from
him by force, and had recourſe to his Cunning, to'lup-
preſs an Enemy whom he apprehended 'twould not be
eaſie ro fubdue by Arms. He wrote to the Governours
of the Provinces and Cities in Aſia, That what Laparda
did, was by his Orders, for Reaſons which the People
were not to know. This Deviſe he thought would hin-
der ſeveral Perſons from joining him, out of the Averſi-
on they had to his Goveroment. What ſucceſs his Arti.
fice would have had, is not known, Laparda being taken
before the Letters arriv'd.
He viſited the Tomb of his father, array'd in all his
Imperial. Ornaments, that he might, as he conceiv’d;
pleaſe the ſhade of that ambitious Prince, by appearing
there in a Dreſs which he ſo earneſtly deſir'd, when he
was Living, to wear himſelf, and leave to his Poſterity.
The Father of this Bloody Prince, was of the ſame cru-
el Difpofition with his Son Andronicus, and for his U.
furpation in the Reign of his Nephew Manuel, he was
forc'd to fly to the Turks. His eldeſt Son John, Andro-
Androni
cuss most, nicus's Brother, not only fled to the Turks, but Marry'à
mily
Woman of Quality among them, and turn'd Maho-
bule meran being impatient of Controul : And the Tyrant,
now Reigning, ercell'd them both in Pride and Cruer-
ry. The whole Fainily was bad, and Andronicus the
worſt of them ait.
10
+
Chap. VI.
277
Andronicus.
--
In the following Spring he Mutter'd all his Forces,
and March'd to Nice to Chaſtize the Infolences of the 1189.
Citizens, who were the moſt Uneafie under bis Tyran-
ny of any of his Subjects. Branas he ſent to Quier fome
Commotions in Vlabat and Pruſias, which he effected.
The Nicæans did not ſo eaſily ſubmit to the Emperor:
They ſhut their Gares, and open'd their Mouths, defy'd
his Power, and rail'd at his Treaſon. Theodorus Canta-
cuzenus and Iſaac Angelus Commanded in the Town:
The inhumane Emperor having receiv'd ſeveral Repui.
ſes by the Sallies of the Citizens, ſent for Euphrofyne,
Ifaac's Mother, from Conftantinople, and ty'd her to His Cruel-
the Top of one of his Battering-Rams: This Spectacle ty to Ifaac
was equally full of Wonder and Pity. The Barbari.
Angelus's
ty of the Emperor's Fury on one Hand, and the un- Mother.
daunted Courage of the Lady, who bore being moun.
red on the Top of a Machine, and driv'n by it againſt
the Wall with unſpeakable Violence, on the other,
mov'd the Spectators with Compaſſion, and fill'd them
with Aſtoniſhment. The Belieg'd fhor on the Beſiegers
with the ſame Ardour as before, but with ſo much Care,
that they Killd a great Number of the Romans withoor
kurting Euphroſyne; and the Tyrant's new invented
Cruelty was ineffectual.
Theodorus Cantacuzenus Dy-
ing during the Siege, the Hearts of the Citizens fail'd
them, and by the Biſhop's Perſuaſions, Ifaac Angelus re-
fuſing to Command them, they put themſelves in the
poſture of Suppliants, their Arins, Feet and Heads
bare, with Boughs in their Hands inſtead of Weapons,
and went forth to Andronicus, fell at his Feet and im-
plor'd his Mercy. The Tyrant was himſelf mov'd at
ſo fad a Sight, and doubred whether he could truit his
Eyes or not, imagining theſe ſubmillive Wretches could
never be the Men who were lately ſo Reſolure. When
he found 'twas no Deluſion, he appear'd ſo much Con-
cern'd, he could ſcarce refrain from Tears, which he
had always, like the Crocodile, at Command : He af-
fected to thew an extraordinary Clemency, tho' 'rwas
not many Days before he threw off a Mask which ill
became him, being the moſt awkard Man in the World
in doing Good ; And giving himſelf up to his nacural
Temper, he fell on the chief Citizens with unparalellid
Fury, come he Banith'd, ſome had their Eyes plucke out,
foine
1
I 3
,2
278
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
-
A.D. fome were thrown down from Precipices and had their
1185. Brains dath'd out, and ſome were Hang'd. He com-
mended Ifaac Angelus, for that he had not given fo great
a Liberty to his Tongue as Cantacuzenus had done ; and
for reproring the inſolent Speeches of the Nicæans, He
promis'd him mighty Things, little thinking that he was
ſo kind to the Man, whom Heaven had ordain'd to Cha-
ftize his Pride, and Punith his Treaſon. Then be March'd
to Prufas, and having ſurpriz'd the Town, the Citizens
were. Maſſacred, the City Sackr and Spoil'd, and the
very Flocks and Herds in the Neighbourhood Slain.
He order'd Theodorus Angelus's Eyes to be pulld out, to
be put on an Aſs, ty'd to it, and driv'n into the Forreſts
on the Frontiers of his Dominions; where he had been
torn ro Pieces by Wild Beaſts, had he nor by chance
fall'n into the Hands of ſome Turks leſs Barbarous than
the Roman Emperor, who carry'd him to their Tents,
and taking Pity on bis Youth, being ſcarce Twenty
Years of Age, reliev'd his Wants. Leo Synefius, Manu-
el Lucanus, and Forty other Perſons of Quality, were
Hung on Trees; ſome had their Hands cut off, others
their Feet, ſome their Fingers only, and ſome had only one
Eye pluckt out; Andronicus ftudying new kinds of Tor-
ment with as much Pleaſure as virtuous Princes take in
Contriving to ſhower down Bleſſings on their People, and
delighting to make them Miſerable, as they to make
them Happy. From Pruſias hie March'd to Vlabat, ex-
ercis'd the like or worſe Barbarities there, and pluckr
out the Eyes of the Biſhop, for not being as Inhumane
to the Iohabitants as he would have had him.
As he got and maintain'd his Dominion by Violence,
so be was often like to loſe it by the ſame means, Iſaac
The Son of a Daughrer of Ifaac, Manuel's elder Bro-
ther, had been raken Priſoner by the Barbarians, and
kép! in a cloſe Confinement. The Knights of St. John
of berufalein," Ranſom'd bim and' Andronicus contribu:
ied to it at the entreaty of Theodora, Iſaac's Aunt and
the Tyrant's Miſtreſs, and Conſtantinus Microducas,
who had Marry'd one of Theodora's Siſters. The Mo-
ry, that was remitted him from Conſtantinople, he lay'd
Ifiaccoma
Olic to raiſe Mer, with whom he reiz'd the INand of
Cyprus; counterfeiting Letters from Andronicus, in
Pinus C. which he was appointed Governour of the Ine. When
hs
Dulis
ܪ
Chap. VI.
Andronicus.
279
he had got Poffeffion of it, he behav'd himſelf with more A. D.
Cruelty than Andronicus himſelf did, Torturing and 1185.
Murdering the Innocent, Robbing the Rich, Corrupting
Men's Wives, and Debauching their Daughters. In a
word, he ſtrove to our-vy Andronicus in Wickedneſs,
and that made him the more formidable to him. The
Tyrant had been told by Aſtrologers, that he Mhould be-
ware of a Man, the two firſt Lerrers of whoſe Name
began with I. S. Ifaac he fear'd was the Man meant by
she Prediction, and apprehended if he came ro Constan-
tinople, he would be receiv'd with Joy. Not being a-
ble to get him into his Power, he was reſolu'd to Re-
venge himſelf on thoſe that had perſuaded him to give
him Mony, and were Sureties for his good Behaviour.
Conſtantine Macroducas and Andronicus Ducas, were the
Perſons who had induc'd him to it. As for Ducas be
had been one of the main Inſtruments cr Adviſers of his
Cruelty, and when he Condemn'd any one to have their
Eyes pluckt our, he us’d to tell him, He was too kind,
he mould command him to be Hang'd, if he would
have his Puniſhment proportionable to his Crime. All
the People of Quality attending on Whit-Sunday, to
Celebrate the Feait of our Saviour's Aſccnfion, Conllan.
tine Macroducas and Andronicus Diças came to Court
with the reſt. The Tyrant lay then in the Park of
Filopas, and the two Perſons we have mention'd, were
bali'd out of the Palace as if they had been Trayrors
Condemn'd to Death. They behay'd themſelves with
a great deal of Modefty, and cat their Eyes on the
Emperor like Supplianes craving his Mercy. Agiocbrifto.
phoritus, whom the People us'd co call ansichriſtopho.
ritus for bis Wickedneſs, the Emperor s prime Minister
in all his Councils and Acts of Blood, rook up a Sione
and lifting up his Hand to fling it ac Macroducas, he
bad the reſt of the Company do the ſame or they should
be Scond themſelves. Every Body was frighten'd ar
his Threats, and to ſave theinfelves Aung at the revo
Noblemen. When they were knockr dowol, chole who
vere piac'd there for that purpoſe, cook then. 2 way
and hung them up. Soine Body begging Their Bodies
of the Tyrant, he ſeem'd ſurpriz'd, and ask how long
they had been Execured, the Hangman replying noe
og fince, he pretended to be ſorry for their Death,
T
and
280
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VI.
A. D. and added, Weeping, The Severity of the Laws and the
1185. Authority of the Judges, had prevail'd over his natural
Inclination to Pardon them. A few Days after, he or-
der'd the two Sebaſtians, Brothers, and Men of Quali.
ty, to be hung up for attempting againſt his Life, as he
ſaid without any Reaſon. The Citizens of Conſtanti-
nople were extreamly Griev'd at the Murder of theſe
four Noblemen, eſpecially for the two former, who
were related to the Iinperial Families; but every parti-
cular Man's Sorrow and Concern for his Patron or
Friend, was leſſen'd by his Fears that his own turn
would be next.
He reckon'd thoſe that had been alrea-
dy Butcher'd were the moſt Happy, their Fears were
over ; and thoſe who remain'd alive, liv'd in Terrors
worſe than Death.
Their Hatred to the Tyrant made Men deſperate,they
did not care what became of their Country if they could
be Reveng'd on him. Alexius Comnenus, of the Impe-
rial Houſe, who had been Cup-bearer to the Emperor
Manuel, and was Baniſh'd into Scythia by Andronicus,
Aed to William II. firnamd the Good, King of Sicily,
Alexius
whom he excited to maka-War upon the Empire, telo
Comnenus ling him, The Tyrant, now on the Throne,' was ſo
Calls in the Hatcd, he would be able to make little Refittance.
Sicilians The King had heard before how Odious Andronicus
against An- had inade himſelf to the Grecks, and raiſing a good Ar-
dronicus.
my he paſt the Streights, atrack and took Dyrrachium,
Suild 10 Theſalonica, befieg'd it by Sea and Land, and
being weakly Defended by the Governour, made him-
ſelf Maſter of the City. Dreadful were the Effects of
the Sicilian's Rage on this account, They always had
an Averſion to the Romans, and now they ſhew'd it by
their abominable Cruelties. The Inhabitants abandon'd
their Houſes and Treaſures to their Fury. The Streets
and publick Places overflow'd with the Blood of the
laughter'd Cirizens. No holes could hide them from
their Revenge, no Prayers nor Submiſſions obrain Mer-
cy, all were put to the Sword; and if the Soldiers
contenred themſelves with the Plunder and Spoil of
their fouſes, they thought they us'd the Inhabitants
well The Churches were Profan'd by them, and the
Holy Relics of the Martyrs and Saints, with which
this Ciry shcunded, inſulied by the inpious Latins.
For the; here as indifferent an Opinion of the Relicis
of
i
8
Chap. VI.
281
Andronicus.
of any Saints except their own, as thoſe of the true Re: A. D.
ligion have of theirs. The Sicilians took the City the 1185.
fifteenth of Auguſt, and when they had ſatisfy'd their
Thirſt of Blood and their Avarice, they divided them-
ſelves into three Bodies. One they left at Theſſalonica,
and the other Two march'd farther into the Province,
taking ſeparate Routes to bring the Cities and Country
under their Subjection.
Andronicus ſtorm'd like an enrag'd Lyon, when he
heard of the Deſcent of tbe Sicilians and their Succeſs;
yet 'twas ſo far from making any Impreſſion on him to
the change of his Manners, that he continu'd his Barba.
rities with even greater Violence, defying the Divine
Juftice which was Arm'd againſt him. Alexius, Manu-
el's natural Son by bis Niece Theodora, whom the Ty.
rant had Marry'd to his natural Daughter Irene, after
the young Emperor's Death, had his Eyes pull'd our, and
was cloſely Confind in a Tower on the Boſphorus. His
Wife was driven from Court for Mourning for her Hus.
band's Misfortune. He fell upon his Domeſticks, ſeiz'd
ſeveral of them and pluckt out their Eyes. Mamalus,
one of his Secretaries, he order'd to be Burnt alive;
and Blinded Conſtantine Trplicus, the moſt zealous In-
ſtrument of his Cruelties next to Agiochriſtophoritus.
He ſent an Army under bis Son Fohn, whom he had de-
clar'd his Succeffor, to oppoſe the Sicilians. Fohn loiter'd
away his Time in Hunting in the Neighbourhood of
Philippopolis, till Duras and Theffalonica were taken,
and then the Romans abandon'd the Country to the Sici.
lians, who March'd directly to Conſtantinople, Alcxius
Comnenus pretending, that on his Appearance at the
Gates, the City would be deliver'd to them; but find-
ing the Citizens were provided for a Siege, and reſolv'd
to defend the City, they turn'd their Arms on Am-
phipolis, rook it, and ſubdu'd all Theſſaly. Andronia
cus repair'd the Fortifications of Conſtantinople, and
put the City in a State of Defence : Giving out, Thac
the News of the Sicilian's Victories was not true; and
when 'was confirm'd on all Hands, he boalted he
would catch them in his Ner as the Hunters do the Wild
Boars. Heaven for a Judgment had blinded his Rea-
fon, and in a ſort of ſupine Negligence, he deſpis'd
thar Danger, which ar another time would have thrown
him into Deſpair. Inſtead of Muſtering his Forces.
and leading them againſt the Enemy, he gave himſelf up
to
:
282
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VI.
A. D. ro Riot and Debauchery. He would retire to lonely
1185. Places in Woods and Forreſts, and take with him a
Androni- grear Namber of Strumpers, who follow'd him as Bac.
cus's Neg.chus was follow'd by the Tyades and Menades.
He
ligence and ſpent whole Days and Nights in Revelling and Wan-
Supinity. conneſs; and ſupply'd the decay of his Vigour, occafion'd
His Cha- by his Age, with Balms; anointing his Joints and Nerves
rafter.
to make them Supple. He ſent for Fiſh from the Nile,
there being a Sort in that River, which was an Incen-
tive to Luft. It was ſhap'd like a Crocodile, and was
the ficter Diſh for a Prince, whoſe Nature reſembled
that Animal : When he left there Retirements to return
to the City, tha: Day was certainly Fatal to ſome No.
bleman or other. He was always ſurrounded by Guards,
and generally by Foreigners. He kept a great Dog in
his Chamber, that would Fight with Lyons ; and as
his Guilt was extream, his Terrors were ſo alſo. He
had a mean way of Rallying when he gave himſelf to
Pleaſantry, which was a Conſtraint he ſometimes puc
on his Nature, and would fix Horns on the publick
Places, as a Jeſt upon thoſe Men whoſe Wives he had
Debauch'd. Being unawares enter'd into his Character,
as we have fewn the deform'd Likeneſs, we ought to-
Turn the Glaſs and Mew that which was fair.
He had ſome good Qualities, which were like Anti-
dotes to his bad ones: He readily afſifted ſuch as were
in Want of his Bounty: He retraind the Inſolence
and Avarice of the Princes and Lords of the Empire,
by which Means ſeveral Provinces were reſtord to
their former flouriſhing Condition, tbat had been in
the late Reign depopulated by the Oppreſſion of the
Great ; every Man might fic quietly under his Vine,
and enjoy the Fruit of his Labour, without apprehend-
ing the Violence of his Superiors : He would not fuf-
fer the Receivers of the Publick Revenues to collect
them with Severity : He never ſold Places of Truſt or
Honour: He made Upright Governors and Impartial
Judges, Perſons, who, like a Judge in a late ungrate-
ful Reign, would do Juſtice ſtrictly to all Mankind, if
his Maſter's Intereſt or his own was not concein'd :
He would not ſuffer any new Notions in Religious
Vatters, and forbad Diſputes about controverred
Points, which were Dangerons to be decided : He re-
pair &
Chap. VỊ.
283
Andronicus.
}
pair’d and embelliſh'd ſeveral Churches and had he A. Da
never gone out of this part of his Character, he would 1185,
have been one of the beſt Princes of the Comnenian
Race.
But his Delight was in Luxury and Blood; his good
Deeds were all Affectation, his Religion, Hypocriſie;
and his Love of Juſtice, Grimace. He was then only
himſelf wben he was meditating the Murder of ſome
innocent Perſon, or violating the Honour of a chaſte
Wife or pure Virgin ; and 'tis hard to determine in
which he took the greateſt Pleaſure, in Lewdneſs or
Cruelty. His laſt bloody Project was the moſt inbu-
mane of all his Contrivances ; be had taken
up
Abun.
dance of Perſons on Suſpicion of conſpiring againſt
him, or correſponding with the Enemies; all theſe he
reſolv'd to deſtroy at once, and to have their Throats
cur in Priſon; moſt of 'em were Perſons of Quality,
and guiltleſs of any Deligns againſt his Life or Digni.
ry. He fummond his Council of Blood, and in a la-
mentable Tone repreſented to them the Miſeries the
Romans endur'd from the Sicilians, affirming they were
all owing to the wicked Confpiracies of thoſe who
were in Priſon or in Exile : They have meditated my
Deſtruction, ſays he, but I ſwear by my boary Hairs they He reſolves
jhall have no reaſon to rejoice in their Deſigns, the Mil- to Murder
chief mall light on themſelves which they have prepar'd all thoſe
for me; and if I muſt die I will at leaſt have the Sarif he had inte
fa&tion to ſee them go before me : He then askt the Alpriſun'd.
ſembly what ſhould be done in the Caſe; they all
cry'd out, Let them die, Spare no Body: The Judges
were unanimoudy of the ſame Opinion, and Sentence
of Condemnation was drawn up in form to that pur-
poſe. Andronicus took it from the Secretary and kept
it, perhaps to juſtify himſelf whenever he fhould be call'd
10 an Account for his Male-Adıniniſtration ; that he
might ſhew what illegal and barbarous Judgments the
Judges had given, which he by his Authority only had
prevented being Executed. Manuel, his Son, ſaid the
Decree was too general; however 'twas thought the
Priſoners would all bare Dy'd, had not Andronicus's
Depoſition fav d them. Having conſulted a Magician
about his Succeffor, and being told that the Letters,
1. $hould
$. donld be the two first of his Name, as he had
been
284
The Roman Hiſtory: Chap. VI.
A. D. been inform'd before; He inquir'd how long it would
1185. be before he fould ſucceed him; the Magician anſwer'd,
by the middle of September, about a Fortnight after the
Time of his Inquiry. Andronicus (mild at this, believ-
ing ic related to Iſaac the Tyrant of Cyprus, and ſaid,
This Propheſie is a Trifle, How can Iſaac come so soon
from Cyprus. One of his Creatures bad him have a
care of Iſaac Angelus, but he deſpis'd him as a Coward,
who durft not attempt any daring Enterprize. How-
ever Agiochriſtophoritus, whoſe Safecy was inſeparable
froin his Maſters, and who knew that if Andronicus
could not protect him, he would be torn to Pieces by
the Multitude, reſolv'd to ſeize Ifaac and make away
with him, the Prophecy running ſtill in his Mind, and
he thought they could not be too ſure. A Murder or
Ewo, or rather than fail, the Maſſacre of all the Perſons
in the Empire, whoſe Names began with the Letters,
I. S. was a ſmall Matter with this Monſter for his Ma.
ſter's Preſervation, in which his own was ſo much con-
cern'd. The Murderer on the irth of Sept. 1186.
$286.
went to Ifaac's Houſe near the Monaſtery of Periblepta,
and commanded him to follow him. Ifaac knowing that
he never went on any Meſſage which did not relate to
Blood, made no great haft to Obey him. Agiochrifto.
phoritus bad his Men take him by the Hair and the
His Favor- Beard, and drag him to Priſon. Ifaac ſtood on bis De-
rite ſets up
fence, reſolving to Dye like a Man, and not be camely
on Ifaac led to Execution like a Sheep to the Slaughter. He
Angelus, charg'd the foremoſt of the Ruffians with his Sword in
and is Hand, made his way thro' them all, got to his Horſe,
mounted it; attack'd Agiochriſtophoritus, who ſpurr’d
his Mule' and would have eſcap'd hiin but Ifaac itruck
him Dead to the ground, diſperſs'd his Followers, and
faac fiesgailop'd to the Great Church for Sanctuary, having
the his naked Sword ſtill in his Hand, and Crying out,
Great He had kill'd Agiochriſtophoritus. The People croud-
Church ed about the Church to fee what would be the Illue of
the Affair, expecting that he would be halld thence
before Night, and Tortur'd to Death. John Ducas,
Iſaac's Uncle, and Ifaac Ducas, the Son of John, ran
thither to ſtir up the Multitude to Sedition, having no
way cle to ſave themſelves, for they were bound for
416 Angelus's peaceable Behaviour. Orbers who
dreaded
Chap. VI.
Andronicus
285
1986.
dreaded the Tyrant's Vengeance, fled thither, and all of A. Dj.
them beg'd the People to help them, and deliver them
from the Perils with which they were ſurrounded. The
Prayers of ſuch Men as John and Iſaac Ducas, and Iſaac
Angelus, who were all look'd upon as Patriots, could not
but have a good Effect on the Multitude, who under-
took to defend them. It happen'd tbat Andronicus was
then at his Palace of Meludion, which favour'd the In-
furrection. When he heard of the Death of his chief
Minifter, and the Sedition that follow'd it, He wrote
to Conſtantinople, That what was done could not be undone,
and order'd the Magiſtrates to appeaſe the Tumult;
which was not in their power to do. The Multitude
early the next Morning repair’d to the Church in Arms,
and having open'd the Priſon Doors, they took the Pri-
foners along with them, Railing at all that did not join
with them, as Enemies to their Country. By theſe Men
was Iſaac Angelus proclaim'd Emperor. One of them And is cke-
put a Ladder to the Altar, mounted to the Top of it, and
-Sen Empe-
ror by the
took down Conſtantine's Crown which hung there, to
People.
put it on Ifaac's Head, who making ſome difficulty to
accept of it, more out of Fear than Modeſty, John Du-
cas pull'd off bis Cap, and offer'd his bald Pate to re-
ceive it ; but the People would not confent to it, ſaying,
They had ſuffer'd enough already by a bald Pared Prince,
and they would no more yield Obedience to a Man whoſe
Hairs were Grey. Ifaac was at laſt perſuaded to accept
of the Imperial Diadem, and Andronicus returning io
the City, at that inſtant one of his Horſes, with the Oro
naments of an Emperor upon it, got looſe, ran abolit
the Streets, was caught and brought to Iſaac, who
mounted it and march'd towards the Palace, accompa-
ny'd by Bafilius the Patriarch, whom the People bad
forc'd to aſſiſt at the Ceremony.
In the mean time Andronicus was got to the Palace,
and hearing what was done at the Great Church, he
Commanded his Guards to ſhoot at the Mulcitude if
they approach'd that way. The Soldiers nor Obeying
him ſo readily as he der'd, he went up into a Tower,
Androni-
bent his Bow, and let fly at the People ihar were below :
cus ſhoors
as tho’ bis Gingle Defence, when he was abandon'd by
At the size
his Guards and his Subjects, would have been of any
Service to him. He foon found 'twas to no porpofe to
hold
2.6
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. hold out, and offer'd to reſign the Purple to his Son
1186. Manuel; ar which the Multitude loaded them both with
Curſes. Perceiving his Destruction was what they aimd
at, he threw off his Imperial Robes, and got aboard 2
He flies. Galley with his Wife Agnes, and a Whore call'd, Ma-
raptica, whom he Lov'd for ber Excellence in Playing
on the Flute; and return d by Water to Meludium, in
tending from thence to eſcape to the Iauro Scythians;
the only Nation in the World that he could think
would entertain him. But bis evil Deſtiny follow'd him
cloſe, the Wind veerd about, and drove his Ship back
s taken. on the Shoar three times; by which means thoſe whom
Ifaac had ſent in perſuit of him, cook bim, bound him,
and threw him into a Bark with his two Female Com-
panions.
The new Emperor when he enter'd the Palace, was
again Proclaim'd Emperor, and his Followers rifled it;
not ſparing the Chappel, as if they had taken the City
by Storm. Among the Relicts which they deſtroy'd in
the Chappel, we are told, was a Box, in which were
enclos'd the Letters our Saviour wrote to Abgarus, King
of Edela. But unleſs thoſe Relicts had been better
prov'd to be Genuine, 'twere to be with'd the Seditious
had done no more Miſchief than that. Having ſtay'd a
few Days in the Great Palace, Ifanc remov'd to that of
And is pre- Blacherne, where Andronicus was preſented to him
Fonted to in Chains, and abandon'd by him to the Revenge of the
Ifaac, who Ratble; who firſt Aſſaulted him with their foul Tongues,
abandons and then treated him with as much Barbarity as he him-
bin to the ſelf, who was ingenious in Cruelty, could have inven-
Rabbie.
red for the worſt of his Enemies.
Firſt they Scratch'd
him and Kicke him, then they pluck'd his Teeth out of
his Head, and tore his Hair of The Wives of ſuch
The Indig. as he had Kill'd or Blinded, beat him with their Fifts.
nities and one of his Hands was Cut off, and then they threw him
Cruelties into the Tower of Anema without Bread, Water, oř
exercis'it any Suítenance. A few Days after they pluck'd one of
tomira's his Eyes out, mounted him on a Camel, led him bare
him.
headed about the Streets, ſome of them ſtriking him
with Cudgels upon it: Others threw Filth in his Face:
Others flung Stones at him: Othets prickr liim with
Spits, Curfing the Father that begot, and the Mother
zhat brought forth ſuch a Monſter. Scrumpet threw
a Ket
Chap. VỊ.
287
Andronicus
a Kettle of boyling hot Water upon him ; and every A. D.
one either Raiļd at him to bis Face, or Beat him ac. 1186
cording as fthey were more or leſs tranſported by their
Vengeance. In this miſerable Condition they led him
till they came to the two Pillars, on which a Wolf and
another wild Beaſt of the Forreſt were plac'd, caſt in
Braſs in a Fighting poſture. They hung him up, be-
tween the two Pillars, by the Feet; all whicb Torments
he bore with wonderful Parience, and a Preſence of
Mind; which ſhew'd that his Soul was as much above
thoſe of the People, as his Dignity was above their Con-
dition. In the midſt of all their Indignities, he only
ſaid, Lord have Mercy upon me, Why do you break 4
bruiſed Reed. The Rabble not ſatisfy'd with all theſe
Barbarities, Cur off his Privities. One of them thruſt
a Sword down bis Throat to his very Bowels; and at
laſt two Italians to try the Goodneſs of their Blades, and
how dexterouſly they could make a País, thruſt him in-
to the Body; thro' which wounds his guilty Soul fled His Deaths
from his mangled Carcaſs. He is ſaid to have acknow-
ledg'd the Juſtice of God, and to thank his Tormentors,
who remembring with what Pleaſure he us'd himſelf to
behold ſuch terrible Spectacles, lookt on his Sufferings
with the leſs Compaflion. 'Tis reported that he fore-
told his own Death, sho' he did not think the Spirit of
Prophecy had been given him, to pronouncea Judgment
impending over his own Head. When he was once af-
Giſting at the Celebrating the Horſe Race, or Games of
the Circus, he ſpy'd thoſe two Pillars, pointed to them,
and ſaid to Manuel, The time ſhall come when an Empe-
yor, after having ſuffer'd all ſorts of Ortrages, Mall be
hung up there. by bis Subjects. Manuel anfier'd like a
Prince, who, not having deſerv'd that Deſtiny, was not
afraid of it, The Prophecy, if 'tis one, does not concerti
1
me.
His Body was thrown into a Celler in the Hippon
drome, but ſome Perſons afterwards, out of reſpect to
the Crown he had once worn, Bury'd ir in the Mooa-
ſtery of Ephorus. The few Friends that he had, reporo
a Miracle on his Death. The Image of St. Paul, in the
Church of the Forty Martyrs, Repair'd and Beautify'd
by him, Wept ſome time before this ſurpriſing Revolu-
tion in his Fortune. As it the Tyrani's prerended
Esteem
288
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VI.
A. D. Efteem for the Writings of that Apoſtle, had engag'd
1186. the Saint ſo far in his Intereſts, as to Mourn miracu-
louſly for his approaching Fate. He Reign'd two
Years by himſelf and with Alexius, and Govern'd the
Empire one Year as Guardian to that Emperor.
Ifaacius Angelus.
THOUGH the laſt Emperor was ſo bad that the
Romans were glad to have any one reign over
them rather than he, yet probably they would not have
pitch'd upon Ifaac, if they had had Time to deliberate
on the Choice of a fit Perſon: He hated the Tyrant,
and had kill'd the chief Inſtrument of his Cruelty. He
was a Man of High Quality, and was threatend with
Death by Andronicus. This pur together made up his
Merit ; and if they had been askr what Virtues he had
to recommend him to the Throne, they muſt have an-
(wer'd, His Misfortunes; for the Perſecutions of bim-
ſelf and his family gain'd firſt the Pity, and then the
Love of the People. He began his Reign like thoſe
Princes who are rais'd by the Voice of the People,
with carefſing and rewarding ſuch as had advancd
him; all the Priſoners whoin Andronicus had laid in
Chains, all that he baniſht or had put out their Eyes,
he liberally preſented with Money out of the Publick
Treaſures, and when that was empty'd, he gave them
vaſt Sums out of his Private Eitate.
His Subjects recovering their Spirits with an Ap-
pearance of Liberty, oppos'd the Sicilians with new
Vigour and Fortune ; they had threaten'd to beſiege
Conſtantinople ; but as ſoon as Iſaac was on the Throne,
they fear'd 'would be difficult to carry on their Con-
queſts any farther than Thellaly. Fohn, Andronicus's
Son, who commanded in Philipopolis
, was ſeiz'd by
the Inhabitants as ſoon as they heard of his Father's
Death, had his Eyes put out, and was kill'd, no Body
daring to affiſt hini. Manuel alſo, the Tyrant's ſecond
Son, who was innocent of any of the lare Enormities,
was condemn'd by Iſaac to loſe bis Eyes, which gave
the Romans no good Opinion of the new Emperor's
Cle
-
Chap. VI.
289
Iſaacius Angelus.
Clemency. On the Report of the Tyrant's Dethrone- A. D.
inent the Grecks crowded from all parts of the Empire 1186.
to ſee and worſhip their Deliverer : They flockc from
Aſia to lift in the Sicilian War; and Branas, the Im-
perial General, having obrain'd Two or Three flight
Advantages over the Enemy, their Affairs chang'd on
a ſudden, and as the Romans took Heart, the Sicili.
Ans loſt theirs, were beaten in a formal Battel, their
Fleet was ſhatter'd and diſperft by a Tempelt, and
moſt of their Leaders taken. The private Soldiers,
who fell into the Hands of the Greek Peaſants, were
murder'd, and ſuch as were taken Priſoners in Battel,
were ſtarv'd to Death, Iſaac not allowing them Main-
tenance, or ſuffering any of his Subjects to ſupply them
with Food. Theſſalonic, Dyrrachium, and all the
Towns tbat had been ſurrender'd to them, were aban.
don'd by the Eneiny, who loft 10000 Men in Fight
and otherwiſe, and 4000 who dy'd of Want in Pri-
ſon. The King of Sicily wrote a Letter to the Empe-
ror in behalf of thoſe poor Wretches, telling him, tho
they were Enemies, they were Chriſtians, and he had
better put them to the Sword than ſtarve them. Ifanc
deſpis'd his Remonftrances, and thought himſelf at Li-
berty to act as he pleasd over an Enemy, who had
been very bad Maſters to his Subjects that had fall'n
under their Power, Among the Priſoners of Quality
that the Romans rook, were Alexius Comnenus, the Au.
thor of the War, whoſe Eyes were pluck'd our, Richard,
Brother of Tancred, Admiral of the Sicilian Fleer, and
Count Baldwin, General of the Land-Forces : The
latter he order'd to be brought before him. Baldwin
having giv'n him ill Language in a Letrer he wrote
to him, on his Advancement to the Throne, lj:49c exo
pected that the Count, who was naturally fierce and
haughey, would have ſhewn ſomewhat of his Temper;
but Baldwin by his Submiſſions mollify'd the Emperor,
who intended to have puniſht him, had he behav'd
himſelf otherwiſe.
The Sicilians were ſcarce gone before Clirziali blon,
Sultan of Iconium, who enjoyd a found Mind in a The Turks
make a
ſound Body at the Age of Threeſcore and Ten, believ-
ing he might make his Advantage of the Diſorders in Deſcent un
Thrace.
the Roman Empire, tranſported an Army, and made a
U
De-
1
290
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. Deſcent on Thrace, where Amir Sames, his General,
1186.
took a great many Priſoners, Abundance of Carrel, and
much Booty, which he carry'd away without any con
ſiderable Loſs on his Side.
When the Barbarians were gone, the Emperor was
alarm'd on the other Side of his Dominions by the Reo
volt of the Wallachians : They were inftigated to it
by Two Brothers, Peter and Afan, who having been
accus d of ſeditious Practices to the Emperor, came to
Court to juſtifie their Proceedings, and to defire that
they might have Commands in the Army, and Lands
affign'd them for their Subſiſtence. Ifaac not think-
ing fic to grant their Petition, they grew inſolent in
aheir Diſcourſe, and dropt ſome Expreſſions which
tended to a Revolt when they came home. Aſan was
the more hor, and ſo provok'd John Ducas, that he
į gave him a Box on the Ear. The Wallachians, when
they return’d into their own Country, rais'd the Inha-
bitants of Mount Hemus, and committed horrible
Spcils on the Frontiers of the Roman Empire.
Iſaac Comnenus continuing in the uſurpc Sovereignty
of the Iland of Cyprus, the Emperor equipt the Impe.
rial Fleet, and pur a good Army on Board, giving the
Command of both the one and the other to John Con.
#zfinphines and Alexius Comnenas ; the former a very
Old Man, and the latter Blind, having loft bis Eyes in
the lare Reign : From Two ſuch Generals nothing
proſperous was expected. They faild with a fair
Wind to Cyprus, but the Tyrant attack them as ſoon as
they got afhoar, defeated them, and a Pirate of Me
gara feiz d all their empty Veſſels which the Soldiers
had abandon'd to fight a fhoar The Generals were
taken Priſoners, and Iſaac deliver'd them to the Mega-
jeun Pirate, who carry'd them to the King of Sicily,
The Ulurper, after he had gain'd ſuch a notable Ad.
Tantage, lifted ſome of the Romans in his Army, and
exercis'd all sorts of Cruelty on the others : He cur
off Bus Rentacenus's Feet, though he had formerly
been his Preceptor, and had taught him the Art
Speaking and of making of War.
Ajai and Peter in the mean Time animated the Bul.
garians trendeavour to recover their Liberty, and ob-
ligd the Emperor to raiſe an Army to oppoſe them.
Peter
of
(
}
1
!
Chap. VỊ.
29.1
Ifaacius Angelus.
i.
Peter put a little Crown on his Head, and Royal Robes A.D.
on his Body; and not contented with the Enjoyment 1186.
of the Freedom they had got by their Revolr, the Two
Brothers were for enlarging their Countries; they ac-
tackt Prellam, where they met with Reſiſtance more
reſolure than they expected, ſo they enter'd the open
Country, and carry'd off as many Priſoners and as
inuch Booty as they pleas’d. As ſoon as the Emperor
arriv'd they fled to the Mountains and Places difficult
of Acceſs. The Romans purſu'd them, and forc'd
their Leaders to throw themſelves into the Danube, and
paſs into Scytbia. The Emperor, inſtead of reducing
the Country, by rooting up the Sedition, now 'twas all
in his Power, fatisfy'd himſelf with the feign'd Submiſ-
fions of the Wallachians, and return'd to Conftantinople,
where he boaſted of his Victories, as if he had made
as Glorious a Campaign as Pompey or Cæfar ever made
in the Infancy of the Roman Empire. The Emperor
was ſcarce got to Conſtantinople before Ajan return'd
with a Reinforcement of Scythians; and Iſaac, inſtead
of going againſt himn in Perlon, ſent John Ducas, who
acted very faithfully and prudently in the Diſcharge of
the Truſt committed to him, yet the Emperor took
away his Commiflion from him out of a ground cſs
Jealoufie, that he aim'd at the Sovereign Authority,
Fohn Catzcuzenus ſucceeded him in the Command of
the Army that was ſent again't Aſian ; his Eyes had
been pull’d our by Andronicus's Order, and he had the
Misfortune to loſe moſt of his Troops, wich his Bag-
gage, the Wallachians ſurprizing him in his Camp.
The next that had the Command of che Army, was
Alexius Branas, who had attempted to uſurp fome
Time before when he was General of the Romans in Bra as ren
the War with the Sicilians. He was afraid of de- voits..
pending on the Greeks, and therefore engag’d the Gera
man Mercenaries, by whoſe Altiſtance only he thought
he might compaſs bis Deſigns Iſaac Angelus having
ſo eally obrain'd the Sovereign Authority, it enceu-
sagʻd others to artempt to arrive ar it ; particularly
Branas, who try'd the fame Means as I/nac had done :
He, fled to the Church of St. Sophia, he implor'd the
Succor of all that came by, again't the Fury of the Era
peror, inſiſting on his Meric in the Sicilian War: Tout
kromo
1
!
.
U
!
292
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VÌ.
1
!
And u
A. D. know, ſays he, how Bravely I fought againſt the Enemj
,
1186. and how I vanquiſht him Thrice in one Campaign.
Tbe
People notwithſtanding his Prayers and his Deſert
would not ftir to belp him, believing he was in no
Danger, and they did not care to bring themſelves into
any: The Emperor pardon'd his Folly and Preſump.
tion; and he lay quiet, waiting for an opportunity to
accompliſh what he had ſo imperfectly begun, which
he thought was thrown into his Hands when he was
made General of the Forces that were to march again't
the Wallachians. When he came to Adrianople he diſa
cover'd his Intentions to his Relations and Friends al-
ſum'd the Purple, was Proclaim'd Emperor by his Ar.
my, and advanc'd to Conftantinople : He approach'd near
the Walls, and try'd to gain Admittance by fair Means,
furps.
which when he found in vain, he threatend to deſtroy
1187.
ir with Fire and Sword. He Bad the Advantage of the
Citizens in Two or Three Skirmiſhes, and the Conftan.
tinopolitans began to be diſpirired. Ifaac neglected the
Affairs of the War, and minded Feaſting and gocd
Chear. It happen'd that Conrade, Son of the Marquis
of Montferrat, whoſe Father was the Emperor Manuel's
Penſioner, was arrhat Time in Iſaac's Court; and being
a Prince of great Courage, he could not bear to ſee the
Emperor ſo careleſs when the Uſurper was at the
Gates of the City, wherefore coming into his Apartment
when he was at Supper, he figh'd and ſaid, Would to
God you lov'd fighting as well as you do Feaſting. Iſaac
with a forc'd Smile reply'd, I'll warrant when we are
forc'd to fight we all know how to do as well as use
know how to feaft. Accordingly he levy'd freth Forces,
Is defeited who by the Bravery and Conduct of Conrade defeated
end fliin. Branas's more numerous Army. The Ulurper himſelf
periſhing with the greateſt Part of his Soldiers, his
Head was cut off and brought to the Emperor ; who
when he made the next Entertainment, order'd the
Doors of the Pallace to be ſer open, and åll that could
come in to be admitted, where the Head was ſhewn
to the Company, and rowlid up and down the Hall
like a Bow! : Then it was carry'd to his Wife, who
was under Guard in the Pallace, and ſhe was aske if
the knew it. The Lady, one of the moft Virtuous
Perſons at Court modeſtly reply'd, She knep it too well
,
and
9
om
Chap. VI.
;
. Ifaacius Angelus.
293
A. D.
and reckon'd herſelf very miſerable to ſee it in that Cona
dition. This Inhumane Treatment was unworthy the 1187.
Opinion the People had of Ifaac, when they preferr’d
him to Aridronicus. What could thar Tyranc have done
more than to inſult a Lady in Deſpair with the moſt
terrible Sight that compaſſionare Nature could behold;
but he had loit the Character of a Mercifu! Prince,
Iſaac
which he at firſt endeavonr'd to acquire, and was now
elteem'd one who had as much ill Nature, though he oſes the
had more Command of his Paiſions than Andronicus
. the People
He ſuffer'd the Houſes of thoſe that had fided with Brico
nas to be burnt and Conrade's Troops took the Li-
berty tº rifle other Mens Houſes, and rob the very
Churches. The Romans roſe in their own Defence,
but the Italians were too hard for them. The Matter
was in the End accommodared. and Conrade paſt over
to Aſia to viſit our Saviour's Tomb, and make War
upon the Infidels, from whom he took Acre.
Ifaac after this underrook another Expedition againſt
the Wallachiens, in which he came off as dihonourably
as before, hàltning back to Court when his Prelence
was moſt neceſſary to animate the Soldiers, who ha
ring ſpent a Summer on the Frontiers to no Purpoſe,
were left there to take their Winter quarters, that they
might be ready againſt the next Campaign, which he
opend with the Siege of Lobizon; from before which
City he was forc'd to riſe thamefully. He then pored 128,
away to Conſtantinople, being impacient to enjoy the
ſofc Pleaſures of his Court, more agreeable to him than
the Facigues of a Campaign.
In the ſaine Year Theodorus Mangaphus, a Citizen of
Philadelphia, a Famous Ciry in Lydia, engag'd a great
Multitude in his Intereſts, made them twear Fidelity to
him, aſſun'd the Title of King, coin'd Money with
his own Arms and Image upon it, and excited the Ly.
dians to a Revolt. The Emperor at firlt deſpis'd this
Rebellion, bur in the End it grew to ſuch a Head, that
he was forc'd to paſs over into Aſia, and beliege Phi.
ladelphia in Perſon. Mingapkus made ſo vigorous a
Defence, that Ifaac was oblig'd to come to a Treaty
with him, by which the Ulurper was to lay afide his
Royal Title and Uſurpt Priviledges, and the Emperor
was to forgive what was paa. Edfilius Butages, Grand
Do.
1
U
1
294
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. Vì
1
:
A. D. Domeſtick or General of the Eaſtern Armies, ſome
1188. Time after fo corrupted his Accomplices by Money, that
they deſerted Nangaphus, who fled to Caicofroez, Sul.
tan of Iconium, Son of Clitzi.aftblan, who permitted
him to take ſome Robbers into his Service, and with
theſe he invaded Lydia, and did great Damage to the
Phrygians, eſpecially to the Citizen's of Laodicea and
Chonos. The Emperor wrote to Caicofroez to deliver
hiin up; which he did in Conſderation of a Sum of
Money, and that Mangaphus ſhould not be pur to Death
or any Corporal Puniſhment. Clitziaſihlan, as his
Father had done before him, at his Death divided his
Dominions amongſt bis Sons, and the others were an.
gry with Caicofroez for giving up a Refugee to the
Romans : They threatend to declare War with him
about it; but he appeas'd them by aſſuring then he
had not Betrayd him ; that he had only ſent him home
for Peace Sake, to prevent his having any Miſchief
done to hiin, or his doing any Miſchief for the future.
The dividing of the Turkiſla Empire among ſeveral
Princes gave the Romans another Opportunity to de-
ftroy them, had Ifaac been a Martial Prince, or had
his Subjects been animated by the lame Spirit as their
Anceſtors were.
1189. The next Year was Famous for the Third Croiſade;
The Third the Chief of which were Frederick Barbarosſa, Emperor
Cicijade, of Germany, his Sons Frederick, Duke of Swabia, and
Leopold, Dake of Auftria, Berthold, Duke of Moravit,
Herman, Marquiſs of Buden, the Count of Nallam, and
other Princes ; to whom came afterwards Richard the
Firt, King of England, and Phillip the Second, King
of France; though the Expedition of theſe Two Mo.
riarchs is reckon'd by ſome Writers to make the Fourth
Croiſade. The Emperor Frederick undertook the Holy
War, to recover Jeruſalem from the Saracens, who re-
rook it from the Chrillians the laſt Year. The Ger.
man Emperor ſent Ambaſadors ro Iſaacius Angelus to
degre Paſſage for him and his Army through his Empire
in their way to Paleſtina, on Condition they commit-
ced no Diſorder, and paid for what they had : To
which the Greek Emperor agreed, and ſent Fohn Ducas
Logothete of the Drome, or Port-Maſter-General, to
conclude a Treaty with Frederick; by which 'twas
agreed
:
1
4
1
Chap. VI.
1
Ifaacius Angelus.
2945
agreed on both sides, that the German Emperor ſhould A. D.
paſs through the Roman Territories, without indamag- 1189.
ing City, Town, or Country, and that the Roman Em.
peror ſhould furniſh him and his Army with Proviſions
for Men and Horſe, the Germans paying for them at a
reaſonable Price. The Treaty was ſworn to by both Ein-
perors: And when the Germans were on the Frontiers
of the Roman Empire, Iſaac ſent the ſame Man, John
Ducas, and Andronicus Cantacuzenus, to wait upon
Frederick, and direct him in his March to the most
commodious Routes. Theſe Two Miniſters behav'd
themſelves fo ill, that Frederick began to ſuſpect the
Greek Emperor's Sincerity, and to believe, as he had
good Reaſon, that Ducas and Cantacuzenus were Spies
upon him. Nicetas, Author of the Hiſtory from whence
theſe Memoirs are taken, was at that Time Governor
of Phillipopolis, which City Frederick very much ftreigh-Frederick
ten'd when he found Iſaac had betray'd him, and broke Barbaroſ:
the Treaty, ſtopping all Sorts of Proviſions, and ſend. ſa takes
ing Michael Camyzus, his Unkle, and Gay Alexius, Phillips
Grand Domeſtick of the Weſtern Army, with Forces polis.
ro incommode him in his March. However Frederick
got ſafe to Phillipopolis, and made himſelf Maſter of
that City: From thence he wrote a Civil Letter to
Camyzus, in which he told himn 'twas in vain for the
Romans to pretend to oppoſe his Paliage, fince he had it in
his power to force it with Eaſe, wherefore they were in
the wrong to ſtop him in a journey which he was in
hafte to perform? He added, he never intended to do
any Damage to the Greeks; on the contrary he was
ready to make good the Treaty on his Part Camyzus
fent the Letter to Iſaac, who, inſtead of returning a
favourable Anſwer, reproach'd him for noe falling up-
on che Germans when they came forth of their Camp in
Parties to ſeek for Proviſions for chemſelves, and For;
rage for their Horſes.
'Tis ſaid that 1/2.10 did not commit this piece of
Treachery our of Hatred to Frederick ſo much as our
of Fear that he intended ro nike hinſeif Maſter of
Conſtantinople, which he had been informd by Aftrolc-
gers he defignd The Grres were troubled with
the ſame Weakneſs, as l'erſoas in a low Condition
generally are. They were very {uperititious, curigus
U4
60
296
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
---
A. D. to know what would be their Deſtiny; and Aattering
1189. themſelves that their Dominion, which they ftill dig.
nify'd with the Title of the Roman Empire, ſhould
again exiend over the whole World ; they were ear-
nelt to know when thoſe Glorious Times would re-
turn. Ifaac had been told that it ſhould be in his
Reign, though he was to undergo a great many Perils
Ifaac's
and Misfortunes before he arriv'd to the Univerſal
Vanity, and Monarchy: And this Irruption of the Germans was to
Superſti-
be one of his Trials; Frederick was to enter at the Xy-
tion.
locircean Gate, to commit horrible Abomination, and in
the End to receive a ſevere Chaſtiſement from Heaven.
To arm himſelf againit this Prediction, he damm'd up
the Gate of Xylocirci with Mortar and Bricks, and held
almoſt always Arrows in his Hand with very ſharp
Points, which he ſaid he had ſharpen'd to pierce che
Hearts of the Germans, at whom he intended to ſhoot
out of the higheſt Window in the Pallace of Blacherne.
His Head was filld with theſe Chimæra's by Dofitbeus,
a Venetian Monk, who had foretold his Advancement
to the Empire in the former Reigns, for wbich he made
him l'atriarch of Jeruſalem, and turn'd out Baſilius Ca.
m iterus, co make Room for him in the Patriarchal
Chair of Conſtantinople : But nor to be ſeen to do it for
that Purpoſe, he made a very Old Man, Nicetas, Pa-
triarch of the Metropolitan City of the Empire, hoping
he would die in a little Time. Nicetas, notwithitand-
ing he was very infirmn, liv'd longer than was expected,
ſo the Emperor was forc'd to get him to be accus'd of
Incapacity, and depos'd: He then declar'd his Favou.
rite Dofitheus Patriarch: Ar which the Biſkops ex-
claim'd as againſt the Canons, to tranſlate one Patriarch
to'anoiher Patriarchal Chair. Ifaac could not tell how
to remove this Remora out of the Way, till he
,
Anticchi, who was eſteem'd the greateſt Cañoniſt of his
Time, promiling to advance him to the Throne of the
Patriarch of Conſtantinople, if he could fatisfie the Fa-
thers thac Tranſlations were lawful. Balſamon under-
rook it, though he knew 'twas contrary to the Laws of
the Church, and he ſo manag'd the Matter, that the
Farhers declar'd in a National Synod, thar Tranſlati-
ons might be permitted upon extraordinary Occaſion,
Ifaac
Chap VỊ.
297
Iſaacius Angelus.
1
Ifaac having what he wanted, declar'd Doficheus Pa- A. D.
triarch of Conſtantinople, to the grear Diſappointment 1190.
of Balſamon : The Fathers were laugh'd at for their
Complacency; and to recover their Reputation, they
depos'd Doficheus, whom the Emperor reſtor'd again
by Violence ; and the Bishops again depos'd ,
chuſing George Xiphilin in his Place. Dofitheus conti.
au'd his Prophecies, and flattering the Emporor's Su-
perſtition and Vanity, gain’d a great aſcendant over
tim.
In the mean while Camyzus, by Iſaac's order; de
ftroy'd all the German Straglers, and cuc off Frederick's
Supplies, which reduc'd him to great Itraits, and oblig'd
him to attack the Romans, who as he was informd were
lyirg in ambuſh to fall upon the Germans, that were
ſent out for Forrage. Frederick derach'd 5000 Horſe,
who charg'd the Romans in their Ambuſcade, and cut
them to pieces. Ifaac perceiving 'twas to no purpoſe to
reſiit ſuch a Multitude of Warlike People, renew'd the
Treaty, provided Ships to tranſport them, and in four
Days time after their firſt embarking they were all on
the other ſide of the Helleſpont. Frederick defeated the
Turks of Iconium in ſeveral Barrels, took that City, pro-
ceeded to Antioch, but going to bath himſelf in the Frederick
River Cydnus, that runs by Tarſus, he fell into a di. dyes in A-
ſeaſe of the Liver, that killd him in a few Days. 0-ſia.
ther Writers ſay he was drown'd; all agree he dy'd ſoon
after his arrival in Aſia, baving given great hopes of a
glorious Croiſade.
The next Year Richard King of England, in his Paf-
1191.
fage to the Holy Land, conquer'd the Iịand of Cyprus, Richard
took the Tyrant faac Comnenus, whom all the Forces King of
of the Roman Empire, could not reduce, and from England
whom he had receiv'd come Affronts, bound him in Fet, conquers
ters of Gold ; and if we may believe Nicetas, gave
Cyprus,&
takºs Iſaac
him to one of his Courtiers for a Slave. This Mand
Comnenus
Richard gave to Guy of Luſignan, who had lost the King- Priſoner.
dom of Jerufalem to the Saracens. And the Houſe of
Luſignan held that Crown above Two Hundred
Years.
Tho' the Emperor Ifaac imagin'd that he ſhould live
Thirty Years longer, yer he was willing to provide
for the Succeffion, and declar'd Alexity his eldeſt Son
his
298
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
}
A. D. his Succeffor; he had nor been long nominated to thar
1191. Dignity before another Alexius an Impoſtor, pretending
to be the Son of Manuel, appear'd in Aſia. He was a
young Man of Conſtantinople, and being ſomewhat like
the true Alexius , he imitared his voice, His humor
and Air ſo nacurally, that many were deceiv'd. by him.
He diſcover'd himſelf firſt in Phrygia, pretending the Pere
ſon who was order'd to deſtroy him, fav'd him out of
compaſſion to his Youth and Innocence; but not think
ing himſelf ſafe there, he fled to Caicofroez, Sultan of
CA Falſe A-Iconium. He afirm'd he was the true Son of Manuel
,
čexius ap- and had the Impudence to reproach the Sulian with Jii-
pears in A- gratitude and Cruelcy, not to compaſſionate the Mis-
[78.
fortunes of a Prince, whore Father was his Friend and
Ally. The Sultan, convinc'd in himſelf by ſome re-
ſemblance, that there appear'd in his Face, of Manuel's
Feacures, and by the Confidence with which he aſſerted
his Birth and Fortune, gave credit to him, made him
conſiderable Preſents, and gave him hopes of affittance.
The Cheat boaſting of his Deſcent one day in preſence
of the Roman Ambaſſador, the Sultan askt that Mi-
niſter if he knew him to be Manuel's Son? The Ambaſ.
ſador replying, 'Twas certain that the Son of Manuel
was drown'd, and that the Impoſtor told a Lye, which
no body would believe ; the pretended Alexius held
up his Hand to ftrike him, and the Ambaſſador did the
fame to affault the Impoſtor, but the Sultan reprov'd
them feverely for their Rudeneſs in his Preſence, and
prevented a Scuffle. The Barbarian would not openly
join with the Mock Prince, being unwilling to break
with the Roman Emperor. However he helpt him pri-
vately to Morey, and gave him Letters permiſſive to
raiſe luch Soldiers in his Dominions as voluatarily lifted
themſelves in his Service. By this means he procur'd
Almuras and Arfenes, two Captains of Bands of Robbers,
to ſend hio Saccours, and levy'd 8000 Men, with
vshom he took ſeveral Cities on the banks of the Mean-
der. The Roman Generals were afraid to come to an
Engagement with hiin, ſuſpecting the Fidelity of their
His Suce Troops, who were more inclind to the falle flexius.
cells.
than to Ifaac. The Multitude in City and Country
wifi'd well to the Impoſtor, and eren ſome Perſons at
Court, tho' they knew Manuel's Son had been dead
long
2
Chap. VỊ.
299
Ifaacius Angelus.
long ago, yet they were pleas'd with the deluſion. A- A. D.
lexius the Emperor's Brother was the laſt who was ſent 1192.
to reduce him. And this Prince contented himſelf with
keeping the Places, in their Obedience to Ifaac, which
had nor ſubmitted to the pretended Alexius. Thus was
the Chear in a flouriſhing condition, when Providence
brought him to a ſudden and unexpected End. As he
was drinking to exceſs in a certain Fort, a Prieſt drew
his own Sword upon him and killd him. His Head His Death.
was cut off and carry'd to Alexius, Ifaac's Brother,
and his Followers diſpers'd when their Leader was
Nain.
Another Counterfeit aſſuming the ſame Name and Another
Quality, uſurpt in Paphlagonia, and was defeated, taken Counterfeit
and put to Death by Theodorus Chumnus General of the
Alexius.
Horſe. Iſaac Comnenus the Emperor, Andronicus's Ne.
phew eſcaping out of Priſon, fled to the great Church,
endeavour'd to raiſe a Revolt, and being taken and put
to the Torture to diſcover his Accomplices; he dy'd
the next Day of the Wounds he had receivd on the
Rack. Conſtantine Tatticius, a Factions Man, and Re-Several
cendytus related to the Comnenian Family ; both of whom Revoltersa
maintain'd Bands of Robbers, had their Eyes put out.
Theſe Revolts were caus'd by Iſaac's, looſe Government,
who believing God would keep him upon the Throne on
which he had plac'd him, neglected all wife Methods
to ſupport his Dignity. He was naturally ſubject to
Paffion, and deale very ſeverely with Men of the beſt
Quality for ſmall Faults, and ſometimes on bare
ſuſpicion, or the perſwafions of others. Andronicus Son
of Alexius Bryenius, Son of Nicephorus, and Anna Com-
was blinded, and no cauſe alledg'd for it. Ale-
xius the natural Son of Manuel was ſhav'd and ſhut up
in a Monaftery, and three Months after recall d to
Court, which was a proof that his Puniſhment was unjuſt,
and Iſaac's Humor asinconſtant as ſevere. Conſtantinus
Aſpiettus, for ſpeaking in behalf of the Soldiery, who
were ill paid, had his Eyes put out ; and Andronicus
Bryennius's Son had the ſame hard uſage for flying to the
great Church, and endeavouring to move the people to
deliver his Father from the Danger he was in. We fee
therefore that the Mulcitude, who chooſe their own
Governours, may make choice of a Tyrant inſtead of a
Pater
nena
S
--
300
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. Pater Patriæ, and that Vox Populi is not always Vox
1192. Dei.
The Wallachians calling in the Comanes to their af-
Siſtance, grew formidable, and threaren'd to overflow
the Welt with a Deluge of Barbarian Fury. Ifaac,
who was always loath to leave the Revels and Pleaſures
of a looſe Court, found himſelf oblig'd to raiſe an Ar-
my and march in Perſon againſt them. He ſtaid but
a very little while on the Frontiers, and becauſe the
Enemy did not preſently appear to give him Barrel, he
thought he had done enough in Thewing himſelf on the
Borders, and retir d back towards Beroe. The Barba-
Iſaac de-
rians fell upon him in his retreat, and roured his Army:
feated by However Ifaac got off unhurt, and the Van was fav’d,
the Wal-
lachians.
the Enemies ſuffering thoſe Troops to paſs before they
His Vani- attack d the Body and the Rear, Ifaac boaſted that he
had gaind a Victory, thinking that his being alive and
not loſing all bis Mep was a proof it. He was ſo vain,
as we have obſery d elſewhere, that he fancy d For-
tune would give him the Dominion of the World, ler
him behave himſelf never ſo remily in his Govern-
He believ d he ſhould be rich, Re.conguer Pale-
ftine, acquire the Glory of Libanus, root out the Saracens,
extend the bounds of the Empire beyond the Euphrates,
and excel Alexander or Cæfar in Renown, though he ne-
ver ſtir d out of his Palace, and minded only Feaſting
and Building Houſes of Pleaſure.
The Wallachians Aluth d with their late Succeſs, were
not ſatisfy d with plundering the Country, and burning
the Villages ; they belieg'd Cities in form, and took
the beſt on the Frontiers, as Anchialus, Varna, Triadit-
za, Sardica and others, in which not being able to
maintain themſelves, they rified them and carry d away
the Spoil. Ifaac orderd thoſe Cities to be gariſon d,
the Fortifications to be repair d; and took the Field to
sepel the Barbarians, over whom he obtain d ſeveral
advantages, that ſervd to furniſh him with talk for the
next Winter, tho' they were of ſmall benefit to the
1193. Empire. The next year he fent Conſtantine his Coulin
Gerinan, to carry on the War, who inſtead of oppoſing
the Barbarians, áffum'd the Imperial Ornaments. His
Soldiers repenting of their joining with him in his Re-
bellion, ſoon put an end to it by ſeizing their General,
and
Brent.
1
,-
-
Chap. VI.
301
Ifaacius Angelus.
܆
1
and ſending him to the Emperor, who order d his A.D.
Eyes to be put out. The Wallachians encourag d by 1193.
theſe Diſorders, robbd and ſpoild the Roman Terri-
tories at pleaſure. Ifaac ſeeming to regard the Miſe-
ries of his Subjects as little as ahore Princes uſe to do,
who think the Wealth of the World was all deſign'd for
one Mans Riot and Luxury, left the Adminiſtration of His Maže
Affairs, entirely to bis Favourites; the chief of whom was Admini-
Theodorus Caftomonita, his Mothers Brother, who tho'ſtration,
he was in Orders, was his prime Miniſter, and govern'd
with as much Arbitrarineſs as if the People had been
his Slaves, whereas they were not ſo to his Maſter. Death
removing him out of the way, Iſaac call'd a Youch to
the Miniſtry, and by the Vivacity of his Genius, he ſo
won the Heart of the Emperor, that he had more
Power over him than ever Caſtomonita had. This young
Favourite fold every thing that came in his way, and
rather than not be brib'd, he would accept of Fruit,
Melons, and any thing that was nice and eatable, which
was divided between the Emperor and him. Ifaac who
for the Love of his Belly, was a ſecond Vitelliu, was
as well pleas'd with thoſe ſort of Preſents, as a Boy of
fifreen would have been. He was equally extravagant
in his Building as in his Feaſting; and to furniſh his Ex-
chequer with ſums anſwerable to biš Profuſion in both,
he grievouſly oppreft his Subjects with Taxes and Ima-
poſitions. He ſeiz'd the Church Plate, and made ufe
of it at his own Table, drinking out of the ſame Bowls
out of which the Conſecrared Wine had lately been
drunk ; and when he was reprov'd for his Sacriledge,
he deſpis'd thoſe that did it as Perſons who knew noc
the extent of his Power, ſaying, Nothing was unlawful
in an Emperor, whoſe Power was not oppoſite to the Al-
mighty's in the Government of his State, as Affirmation
and Negation are in the art of Reaſoning: The Piety of
this Affertion is as Conſpicuous as ihe Reaſon of ir,
and the Subtlery of it we ſuppoſe was owing to one of
thoſe rare Philoſophers, who pretending to the Know-
ledge of Futurity, bad foretold that his Reign ſhould be
long and triumphant. He corrupted the Roman Coin,
took Money for the Governments of his Provinces and
Seats in his Courts of Juſtice. By wbich his people
were intollerably griev'd, and prepard to promote a
Revelation
?
--
302
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A.D. Revolution when ever an occaſion offer'd. He flatter'd
1193. himſelf that all his wicked Deeds were attond, by his
ſquandring the publick Treaſure, in building ſumptuous
Hoſpitals, and erecting Palaces for the Poor. He had ſuch
a particular Veneration for the Images of the Virgin,
that he lavilh'd vaft Sums in guilding a prodigious num-
ber of them to diſtribute among the People, and excile
their Devotions, on which he valu'd himſelf ſo much,
that he doubred not of a long and a glorious Reign: But
the Almighty, the Avenger of the Oppreit, had other-
wiſe diſpos'd of him and his Empire.
The Wallachians continuing their Incurſions ſo fre.
quently, that the Romans on the Frontiers were quite
ruin'd, the Country depopulated, the Villages burnt,
and the Cities ſpoilt ; Ifaac reſolv'd to raiſe a mighty
Army to Chaftize them for all the Injuries and Affrones
the Romans had receiv'd from them. To this end he
defir'd Succour of the King of Hungary, whoſe Daugh-
ter he had marry'd, and in the Spring A. D. 1195.
march'd againſt the Barbarians: He had intimation that
1195. his Brother Alexius was conſpiring to rob him of his
Dignity, yet being blinded by bis Deſtiny, he took no
norice of it, looking on thoſe who inform'd him of it as
Perſons that intended to make a difference between him
and his Brother. However he had ſome Fears upon his
Mind, under which he could not be eaſy till he had
conſulted Bafilacius a Fortunereller of Rodoſto, more fa-
mous for his Rudeneſs and Ill manners than his Science;
who when the Emperor came to his Cell, put bimſelf
into his uſual Agonies, and in one of his Fits, ſtruck
out the Eyes of an Image of Jaac which he had there.
This was thought to be Ominous by all that were pre-
Tent, and tho Bafilacius would not pronounce any of
his Oracles at that time, for he perform'd all his Won-
ders by Signs and Convullive motions of his Head,
Limbs, and whole Body; yet what he had done by
chance agreeing ſo well with what happend after-
wards, he gain'd a great Reputation for his profound
Knowledge.
The Emperor was not ſo much alarm'd ar this ill
Omen, as he was exalted by the flattering Predictions
of his Aftrologers, who being well paid for their fair
Scheines, preſented him with the best their Art could
raiſe
1
1
!
Chap. VỊ.
303
Ifaacius Angelus.
xius coil-
raiſe ; tho' the Stars did not promiſe him very much A. D.
by the late Succeſs of his Arms, yet he liv'd in 11957
continual expectation of the grand Revolution, and his
Univerſal Monarchy. Guido Alexius, General of
the Eaſtern Army, and Bafilus Batazes, who command.
ed the Weſtern, had both been defeated by the Walla.
chians. The latter loft his Life in the Action, and
Iſaac had little reaſon to hope for better Succeſs him.
felf. While his Affairs were in ſuch an ill Poſture, and
the Romans diſaffected on account of the heavy Impo-
fitions he had burthen'd them with, his Brother Ale.
zius form’d a powerful Party at Courr, and the chief His Bros
ther Ale
of the Imperial Family join'd with him in his Conſpi.
racy to uſurp the Crown. Their Plot was ripe for Exe-
cution when the Emperor went on this Expedition. pires
They
therefore waited only for an opportunity to feugainſt bist.
cure Iſaac's Perſon, which offer'd at Ipfala, a City of
Thrace, on the River Melas', twenty Miles from Tra-
janopolis
where the Emperor's Forces rendez-
vouz'd. Here the principal Conſpirators, Theodorus
Branas, George 'Palæologus, John Petraliphus , Conſtan-
Mine Raoul, and Michael Cantacuzenus, all related to the
Houſes of Ducas and Comnenus, declar'd their Diffatis-
faction with the preſent Government aloud. The Em-
perer mounted on Horſe-back to go a Hunting, and de-
Grd Alexius to accompany him, who excus'd himſelf,
pretending ſome Indiſpoſition, and intending to execute
the Deſign he had on his Brother's Dignity that very
day Iſaac wenr, attended only by his Favourites;
he was no ſooner gone than the Malecontents carry'd
Alexius to the Throne, and faluted him Emperor The Fie is falus
Soldiers, and even the Domeſtick Servants of his Bro-ted Empe-
ther Ifaac fided with the Ulurper, with as much Zealror.
as thoſe that were concern'd in the Plot. The Empe-
ror perceiving a croud of People advancing towards
him, and under/tanding Alexius was proclaim'd Empe-
ror, marte a ftop, croit himſelf, pray'd to God to deli-
ver him from the Peril he was in, pulld out an Image
of rhe Virgin, which he carry'd about him, and kiſs'd
it ſeveral times. Seeing ſome of them gallop cowards
him, and hearing they caine to ſeize him, he tied 10-
wards Micra, ſwam a River. and reach'd the Town,
but could nor avoid falling into the Hands of thoſe
whom
:
304
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
out.
A. D. whom Alexius bad ſent to perſue him, and who over-
11956 took him at this place, from whence he was remov'd to
the Monaſtery of Berea, and there had his Eyes pur
Ffaac is
'Twas obſerv'd by ſome very ſuperſtitious Per.
blindede
ſons, that the Judgments of God fell upon him in a
Houſe which was founded by Ifaac, Father of the Ty-
rant Adronicus Comnenus; and thence they concluded that
Providence-reveng'd upon him the. Miſery he had
brought upon his Predeceffor. Wherein they ſeem'd
to enter with too much Curioſity into the Ways of the
Almighty, and to judge too favourably of a Man,
whole Fare was as much deſerv'd as it was ſevere. Iſaac
would not eat for ſeveral Days, and wben be came to
his ſtomach Alexius order'd him only a little Bread and
Wine, wbile he rioted as Luxuriouſly in the Imperial
Palaces, as his Brother had done before him. He was
blinded on the 8th of April 1195. And from Septem.
ber 1185. in which Month Andronicus was depos'd, to
that time makes nine Years and ſeven Months; the
length of his Reign, by the calculation of all Authors.
He reaſſum'd the Government afterwards, but his
Power being broken and precarious, the date of his
Reign ends with the Day of his loſing his Eyes.
1
Alexius Angelus.
THe Example of Alexius Angelus's Treaſon to his Bro-
ther was of very ill conſequence in the Empire, it
gave encouragement to the Romans to break the moſt
folemn Alliances with one, another, ſaying, Since Bro-
ther betrays Brother, what likelihood that one Stranger
will be true another? The new Emperor, like thoſe of
his Predeceffors, who got the Crown by illegal means,
was laviſh of the Imperial Treaſures, ſcattering them
profuſely among his Friends and Creatures; when the
Money he found in the publick Treaſury was gone, he
gave away the Crown Lands: And when he had nei-
ther Money nor Lands to give, be put Perſons into
Places that were not fit for thein. He disbanded the
Forces rais'd for the Wallachian War, and abandon'd
the Frontiers to the Barbarians, that he might haften o
Conſtantinople, where Euphrolyne his Wife, of the Fa-
mily of Camiterus, prepar'd a magnificent Entry for
hino.
Chap. VỊ.
305
Alexius Angelus.
bim. A few Mechanicks proclaiın d o'ne Conteſtophanes A.D.
a Mathematician, Emperocs but they were ſoon dif 1195
pers’d, and their Ulurper thrown into Priſon. A Prieſt
who thought to make his Fortune by an early compli-
ance with the urnatural Revolution, proclaim'd Alexius
Emperor in the great Church : Te Patriarch durft not
puniſh him for it, tho' he did it without his conſent. He
ſaw the Multitude adore the riſing Sun, the Princes and
Lords of the Empire fided with him, and it would be to
no purpoſe for him to ſtand out. So he went to Court
with the reſt, and paid a Compliment of Congratulati-Alexius's
on to the Empreſs of Euphroſyne, a Woman of a Mer-Wife.
culine Spirit, looſe, ambitious, and too cruel for her Ephro-
Sex: Aš forid of Power as other Ladies are of Shew ſyne's
and Pleaſure, and ſo abſolute in ber Government, that the Character
made her Husband's Tyranny the more intollerable.
When Alexius arriv'd at Conftantinople, and was to.
proceed in State from the great Church to the Imperial
Pallace, an Accident befel him, which was lookt upon
to be a very ill Omen. The Maſter of the Horſe
An Ömi-
brought him a Barb, whoſe Eyes ſparkled Fire ; he
nous Accio
prickt up his Ears, paw'd the Ground;' and reard him- dent which
felf upon his hind Feet, as if he diſdain'd to bear him ; befel the
at laft he was brought down a little, and his Rage fome- Emperor.
what mollify'd. The new Emperor mounted him, and
was no ſooner upon his Back but he began to Neigh and
Wince till he threw the Crown off his Head, and hima
ſelf fell from hiin to the ground. A piece of the Crown
was broken off in the fall, which was taken for a fad
Preſage of an unfortunate Reign. His Uncle John
Ducas who attended him on this occaſion, had the ſame
misfortune; the Crown he wore as Scbaſtocrator fell to
the ground, and diſcover'd his bald pate, at which the
People laugh'd, and he being a good natur'd Man, was
ſo far from taking it ill, that he laugh'd with them.
Alexius, either out of ſcorn to his own Naine, as noc
great 'enough for him, or out of averfion to it, becauſe
his Brother uś'd ic as well as he, affum'd that of Com. He ajlumes
nenus, and left off that of Angelus ; and inſtead of pur-
ting himſelf at the head of his army, to repel the wal of Comne-
lachians, as was expected from him, who had raild lo
much at his Brother's inactivity, he becaine as florhtul
and luxurious as ever he had been ; appear'd always in
Robes glittering with Gold and Diamonds, and was
X
furrounded
the 'Nima
و
nus.
306
Chap. V.
The Roman Hiſtory:
A.D. ſurrounded by a company of Sycophants, who ſpen:
1195. their mercenary Breath in Pompous Praiſes of his Me-
rit, and his Illuſtrious Actions, which the Hiſtorians
have not tranſmitted down to us, or were never in rea-
lity any other than the vain Fictions of Court fara.
fies. The Romans ſoon perceiv d that they had not
mended their Condition by the change of their Ma-
fter. This made them repent that they had given them-
felves ſo much trouble to ſo little purpoſe, and they
foon became as dilaffected as in the former Reign.
Three Months after Alexius's Acceſſion to the Throne,
Arother a Cilician affum'd the Name of Alexius, gave our that
Counterfeit he was the Son of Manuel, and fled to the Sultan of
Alexius. Ancyra, who receiv'd him favourably, deſigning to Em-
barraſs the Emperor's Affairs by it, and to make him
pay dear for his Friendthip, tho' he knew the true Ale-
xius had been put to Death by order of the Tyrant An-
drcnicus. The Impoſtor enter'd the Roman Territories
with what Forces the Sultan ſuffer'd him to raiſe, plun-
der'd and ſpoilt the Towns and Villages in the Ne gh-
bourhood of Angred, and made his Party good againſt
Oenopolitus, whom the Emperor fent to oppoſe him.
Alexius finding the Cheat for ground, and was acknow-
ledg’d as Emperor in ſeveral places of his Dominions,
His Slico went againt him in Perlon ; however be ſucceeded as
cks. ill as his General. The Sultan affifted him the more
powerfully the more vigorouſly, he heard he was at-
tack'd ; and the Emperor afham'd to diſpute with an
Impoſtor with ſo little advantage, relign'd the Com.
mand of the Army to Michael Cantacuzenus, and re-
turn'd to Conftantinople. This Impoſtor had given Ale.
xius a great deal of Trouble had not Providence deli-
His Death. ver'd him from it by: he Death of the Counterfeit, who
dy'd ſuddenly in the Fort of Zongra.
This Srorin was ſcarce blown over before another
appear'd in the Eaſt, Ilzac Comnenus, the Tyrant of Cy.
prus whom Richard King of England had taken and
thrown into Priſon, or as ſome write, given to an Enga
Isaac the liſs Nobleman to be his Slave, made his eſcape, and let
Tyrmt of up again, with as much earneftneſs as before, for the So-
Cyprus
vereignty. Alexir's wrore to him ſeveral times, and in-
vited him to Court, but he refus'd 10 come, ſaying
appears a:
Luin in baughtily, He was a Sovereign, and bad learnt to com-
Aris.
mand,
Chap. VI.
307
Alexius Angelus.
mand, and not to Obey; Tho' Bondage one would think' A.D.
was an ill School to learn Ambition in. He defir'd 1195.
help of the Turks, and had obrain'd it if the Emperor
had not procur'd him to be Poyſon'd, before the Suc- He is poy,
cours that were promis'd him were get ready.
Son't.
When the Emperor came to the Crown, he was in-
volu'd in a War with the Wallachians, which as we
have ſaid already, he very much neglected. Thoſe
People were now grown ſo formidable, that he found
his whole Strengih licule enough to reſtrain their Info-
lences, and keep them from over-running Thrace. Ale-
xiu's Appiettus, whom he had ſent againſt them was
taken, and a Roman Legion defeated. He deGir'd
Peace of them by his Ambaſſadors, but Peter knowing
he was driven to it by necefſity, demanded ſuch hard
Conditions that he could not in Honour conſent to them.
And being oblig'd to continue the War, he gave the
Command of the Army to Ifaac his Son-inlaw, who
coming down upon the Wallachians with a greater
Power than the former Generals had done , Afan's
Councellours advis'd him to manage himſelf mcre cau-
tiouſly, and march with inore circumſpection than for-
merly. The Barbarians were a little diſcourag'd at the
report of Iſaac's advancing againft them wiibi a nuine-
rous Army: Afin aniinated thein by his Example and
Diſcourſe, telling them among other Things, We Mall
Jee whether their Valour will be greater than their Fellows,
whom we have often defeated ; let us attack them with as
much vigour as we have hitherto done, and their rcfiſince
will be leſs, becauſe they are weakend by their Lolfes, and
have not yet been able to recover thcm : Beſides they have
provok'd the Wiath of God, by depoſing him who has deliver''
them from the Tyranny of Andronicus. The Wallachians
taking Courage at bis Speech, scarch'd againſt the Ron 1196.
mans with exiraordinary reſolution. Ifanc hearing of
their Approach, gallop'd towards them with his Caval-
ry, as if he had bcen a hunting, tir'd bis Horſes, and
falling into an Ambuſcade laid for him by aan, was
ſurrounded by the Barbarians, taken Priſoner, and mot
of his Men cut to pieces. The Enemy upon this Suc.
ceſs flaughter'd the Romans like ſo many Sheep, cock
rrveral Forts, garriina'd then, loaded themſelves with
Booty, and reduc'd the Frontiers of Macedonia and
Thraca
A
X2
A
308
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
t
+
A. D. Thrace to a miſerable Condition. Ifaac was carry
1196, into Wallachia, and perſwaded one Fehn, an intimate
Friend of Afan, tº kill him, which he did, reſenting
fome Affront that had been offer'd him, ſeiz'd the City
of Ternova, and not being able to defend it, fled to the
Romans for protection : The Emperor receiv'd him
gracioufly, and Fohn obtain'd ſome light Advantages 0.-
ver his Countrymen in the courſe of this War, which
however was very fatal to the Roman Empire.
Tho',the Emperor was very profuſe in bis Expences
and Donations among his (reatures, he was altogether
as Parfimonious in the management of his foreign Af-
fair's, expoſing his Subjects to dire Calamities, purely
to ſave the Charge of a War, or of buying Peace as the
Roomans were wont lately to do. The Sultan of Ancyra
for want of a little Money, had aſſiſted the laſt Impo-
ftor, knowing the State of the Roman Affairs was ſuch,
that they muſt reimburſe him whatever he was out of
Pocker on rbar occafion and would be glad to purchaſe
Peace on the terms of paying the Charge of the War:
He had raken Diadibra in Galatia before the Death of
the Counterfeit Alexius, and kept it; and the Emperor
to recorer it, was forc'd to pay him a greater ſum than
he would have ſold his Friendſhip for before the City
was taken, and his Soldiers had enrich'd themſelys with
the Spoils.
Henry, firmam'd the Severe Emperor of Germany, ha.
ving Conquer'd Naples and Sicily, and being a Prince
of as much Ambition as Cruelıy, defiring itill to en-
large his Empire, ſent to Alexius to deliver up the Ci-
ries of Dyrrachium and Thella onica with all the Country
between the one place and the other, as belonging to the
Kingdom of Sicily, or he would force him to it The
Terror of Henry's Name, and the remembrance of Iſaac's
behaviour towards Frederick Barbaroſa, in his paſſage
through Thrace, made Alexius very fearful of the new
King of Sicily; and to prevent a War, he agreed is
Alexias a
pay Henry a yearly Tribuie of fixteen Talents of Gold.
RECO W ch was the firli time that the Roman Emperor ſub-
jis
Gier:
mirred to the Emperor of Germany. Abour this time
the Court of Conftantinople was very much diſturb'd by
vidne Tri. 2. diſpure which aroſe abour ſelling of Places. When
Alexius was Crown'd, he declar'd he would not ſuffer
ad
ma
rico
Chap. VỊ.
Alexius Angelus.
309
the ſale of any place of Truſt or Profit, which he did A.D.
to ingratiate himſelf with the Romans, who had always 1196.
an abhorrence for thoſe Courtiers, thar enrich them-
ſelves with the Spoils of the People, by exacting large
Sums from Under Officers for Places, in which they
muſt bebave themſelves unjuſtly and ſeverely to reme
burſe themſelves what they paid for their Preferinent.
Notwithſtanding Alexius's Declaration, the Roman Cour-
tiers continu'd to ſell Offices of Honour and Truit as
before, and the Favourites were grown ſo ſcandalous
in their Trade, that the Dignity of Cæfar was ſold to
Bankers, and even to Scythians ; who, ſays Nicetas, ſeem
to be born to Servitude. The Money rais'd by this
means was devided among Alexius's Creaturcs and his
Miſtreſſes. The Empreſs undertook to put a flop to
theſe Diſorders, not lo much out of Love to Juſtice and
the Good of the Empire, as out of Relentment that the
Emperor's Miſtreſſes had the Money, or that ſhe had it
por her ſelf: For her Avarice was as Infamous as her
Pride: Wherefore the reſolv'd either to have the ſelling
of Places herſelf, or that there ſhould be none ſold at
all : To which end ſhe ſo order'd the matter that Conftan.
tine, Ifaac's Favourite was admitted to Court again,
and to the good Graces of the Emperor. Conſtantine, ow-
ing his Fortune to the Empreſs was entirely at her De-
votion, and having by his cunning ſopplanred the other
Favourites Intereſt, he governd his Maſter and bis Ein-
pire, with an abſolute Power, which was a terrible
Mortification to thoſe that had poſfelt the Place of firit
Favourite and Miniſter before him in this Reign. The
Chich of theſe were Andronicus Conteſtopbanes, who had
marry'd Irene che Emprefi's Daugbrer, and Bafilius Cae
materus her own Brother, who to be reveng'd of her,
accus'd her of Adultry to the Emperor, and procur'd
her Baniſhment; but finding that Conſtantine mainrain'd
his Ground, and had ſo far prevaild with his Mallee
to forgive the Empreſs, that he was likely to rerurn to
Court, they join'd with him in perlw.ding the Ein-
peror to recal her, which was done, and he again af
ſum'd a great part of the Adininiſtracion ; for Alexius
did not care who had it, provided he enjoy'd his Eale
and his pleaſures, The Empreſs fearing to ſuffer a fe. 1191
cond diſgrace, behav'd herſelf with more Moderation
X 3
than
-
310
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. than before, and did not endeavour to be reveng'd on
1197 the Authors of her late Misfortunes. Conſtantine taking
Orders, was advanc'd to the Patriarchal Chair of the
Salonica by illegal Methods; from which the Patriarch
of Conſtantinople depos’d him in a Synod, and the Em.
peror baniſh'd him froin Court, either weary of his
Company, or willing to get the good Opinion of the
Clergy, who hared Conſtantine for his encroaching on
the Spiritual Power as well as Temporal, during his
Miniſtry
1199. In the fourth Year of Alexius's Reign the Sultan of
Iconium ſtopt {wo fine Horſes, which the Sultan of
Ægypt was fending to the Greck Emperor ; and having
a mind to ſee them run, he commanded his Grooms to
get upon their Backs and ride them: It happen'd one of
them broke his Log in the Courſe, upon which the Sul
tan ſent to the Emperor to excuſe his ftopping them,
for that one of them had broke his Leg, and be was
afraid to lend him the other alone, and to aſſure him
that he ſhould not want Horſes. Alexius inſtead of be-
ing ſatisfy'd with his excuſe, as a generous Man ought
to have been, fell into a terrible Paſſion, thunder'd out
Threasnings againſt him, and orderd all the Merchant's
Goods, trading to or from Iconiuin to be confiſcated;
which the Sultan hearing, he loft no time but took
Arms immediately, invaded Phrygia, and took ſeveral
Towns on the Meander, uſing his Conqueſts with a great
deal of Humanity. The Emperor croft over into Afia
to carry on the War in Perſon, where he foon grew
weary of the Fatigue, and return'd to his delicious Seats
on the other ſide of the Propont is .
In the following Year Alexius feli fick, which gave
occafion to ſeveral Caba's about the Succeflion; the
Emperor having no Sons, nor his Daughters Huabands,
to pretend to his Crown ; but his recovery balke all the
Designs of thoſe who aſpir’d to his Dignity. The Scy-
thians made ſeveral Irruptions into Thrace, and John the
Wallwchian, who had fortify'd and garriſon'd the Fron-
rieps of the Empire, under colour of defending it againſt
bis Countrymen, revolied, and the Emperor not being
able to reduce him by force, rempred him by fair Pro-
miſes in Court, where he was no ſooner arriv'd, but
be was Piz'd and thrown into Priſon, thó Alexius had
(vior
1200.
's
Chap. VI.
311
Alexius Angelus.
I 200.
i
ſworn to perform the Articles that were agreed upon A. D.
between them:
Alexius had ſome time after an opportunity to extend
his Empire in Aſia Minor, had be known how to im-
prove ir ; for as the Sons of the former Sultan were ar
variance with each other about the limits of their Ter- Diviſions
sitories, ſo the Sons of Clitziathlan the laſt Sultan dif- among the
fer'd about the Poſſeſſion of ſeveral parts of his Domi- Turkso
nions, which he had divided amongſt them at bis Death.
Capatine, one of the Brothers dying, Rucratin and Ma.
fut quarrel'd about the Succeſſion to his Eftare, Rucra-
ein overcame his Brother Maſut, and forc'd him to beg
a Peace, which he granted him on condition, that Ma-
fut deliver'd up part of his Territories to him. Ru-
cyatin haring his elder Brother Caifcofroez Sultan of Ico-
sium, turn'd his Arms upon him, ſummoning hiin 10.
furrender that City and its Dependencies to him ; Caif.
cofroez fearing his Brother's Power, went to Conftanti.
nople, to implore the affiftance of Alexius, who recei'd
him very civilly, but did not lend him any Succours,
as Minuel Comnenus did to Clitziathlan. Neither had
be courage enough to fall on the Infidels, while they
were weakend by their Diviſions; and to endeavour
xo expel them out of Aſia, where they had encroach'd
on the Roman Empire in the times of her Civil Broils
and Domestick Diſorders.
Twas not long before the Imperial City was again
croubled with inrelline Tumults, which endanger'd the A Tunuir
Emperor's Authority. John of the Family of the come in Con:
neni entred the great Church, and taking down a little ſtantino-
Crown that hung over the Alcas, pur it upon his Head, ple.
gather'd a crowd of fooſe Fellows about him, made his
way into the Palace Royal, fat himſelf down on the
Throne, and diſpos'd of the Places at Court, as if he
fiad been as much Maſter of the Empire as he was o
of
char Houſe, which he ſurpriz'd when Alexius was ar
one of his Houſes of Plealure. His followers plunderd
the Citizens, and committed all ſorts of Violence in
Conſtantinnple. Folin however did not act as if his For:
tune would continue ſo fair; be cook no care coguard
the Palace, but ſpent his time in refreshing himſelf after
che Farigues of his Rerole, as cho' he had no Enemies
lo fear. At Night the Rabble, who had proclain'd
hin
1
312
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
A. D. him, diſperit, intending to return the next Morning to
1200. plundering and ſpoiling the Citizens Houſes, as they
had done the Day before. In the mean wbile the Em.
peror affeinbled bis Relations and Friends, and ſent
them in the Night to the Palace, where they found the
Gates broken down; and attacking the Rebels who re-
main'd with Fobn, defeated them, took the Uſurper,
cut off his Head, and ſent it to the Emperor ; his Bo.
dy next Morning was expos'd at the Gate of the Palace
of Blacherne, and the Rebels roſe no more on this Oc.
caſion.
Rucratin having driv'n his Brother Caicofroez into
Al xius
pays the Armenia, and taken Poffeſfion of his Dominions, fent
Turks
to Alexius to demand the reſtoring of the Merchants
Tribure. Güods belonging to his Subjects, which he had for-
merly confiſcated; and the Emperor was oblig'd to
maké Satisfaction for them, and to pay Rucratin a
yearly Tribute for a Peace, which was ſworn to by
borh Princes; but Alexius a few Days afterwards em-
ploy'd an Aſſaſſin to murder the Sultan, who diſcover-
ing the Treaſon, broke the Peace, and ruin'd ſeveral
Ciries in the Eaſt. - Michacl, a Natural Son of John,
the King's Unkle, revolring in Afia, fied after his De.
feat to the Sultan, who ſupply'd him with Troops to
invade the Empire, where he committed Acts of Cru-
elry, which Barbarians could not our.do: However he
found himielf too weak to poffeſs himſelf of any confi-
derable Cicy, ro he pillag'd the Towns and Villages
rhai he came io, and retir'd with the Booty into the
Territories of the Sultan of Iconium.
The War with the Vallachians fill continu'd, and
Michael Camy us, the Proteftator, who had been taken
Priſoner in the War, and had had all his immenſe Riches
ſeiz'd by the Emperor, cnly becauſe he was unfortu-
nare, defird A exit's to pay his Ranſom, and procure
his Libery; which he refuſing to do, C.anıyzus join'd
with the Barbarianó, put himſelf at the Head of them,
and took pelagonia, Prilapus, came as far as Tempe in
Thellaly. ftruck Terior into all Greece, and excited the
Lhabitants of the Morea to revolc ; but Oenopolitus, the
Emperor's General, rerook the Towns from him, drove
him out of Theffaly, and oblig'd the Wallachians to
make Peace vșith slexins, wbich was the only Forte,
nace
7
Chap. VI.
313
Alexius Angelus.
I 200
i
nate Campaign made in this Reign. We are now A, D.
come to a Concluſion of it, and with which the Greek or
Roman Empire in Conſtantinople ends, and Old Rome once
more Triumphs over the New ; for the Latins, who
conquer'd the Imperial City, brought with them their
Subjection to the Papal Uſurpation, and an intire De-
pendance on the Sovereign Pontiff, a Slavery worſe to
the Greeks than the. Dominion of the Saracens : And
had the Latin Princes been leſs zealous for the Union
of the Two Churches, their Reign in the Eaſt might
have been more laſting:
We have related how Ifaac, the late Emperor, was
blinded and impriſon'd by his Brother, who grew fe-
cure in Time. gave Ifaac Liberty to walk between the
Two Pillars on the Banks of the Straight, and to re-
ceive Viſits. The People he convers'd with moſt were
Italians, by whoſe Means he carry'd on a Correſpon. Ifaac the
dence with Irene, his Daughter, who was marry'd to late Emo
Phllip, Emperor of Germany, Brother of Henry VI. peror and
and Son to Frederick Barbaraſa; his Son Alexius was his son
releas'd out of Priſon, and taken into Favour. He Alexius
made ſeveral Campaigns, with Alexius the Emperor,conſpire
was the Companion of his Sports and Pleaſures, and againſt the
by Order of Iſaac improv'd his Liberty to the De-Emperor
ftruction of the Uſurper. He contriv'd how to eſcape
Alexius.
by conſulting with the Maſter of a Ship belonging to
Piſa, who promis'd him to take him on Board, and
convey him to Italy. When all Things were ready for
his embarking, the Maſter of the Ship' brought the
Vefſel to Olon in the Helleſpont, and came in his Boar
10 Atyra, where Alexius mer him, went into the Boar,
and from thence got aboard the Veſſel, the Seamen
covering him up with Sand to prevent his being known.
When the Emperor heard of his Eſcape, he commanded
ítric Search to be made for him ; but thoſe that had
The
your-
it in Charge could not find him. He had cut off his ger Ales-
Hair, and diſguis'd himſelf like an Italian. When he jus flies te
arriv'd in Sicily, he diſcover'd himſelf to his Siſter, who Sicily.
then refided there, Philip ſucceeding his Brother in
the Throne of that Illand. Irene embrac'd him
conjar'd her Husband to have Piry on his Misfortunes,
and not to let him be any longer a Wanderer in the
Earth, defring him to undertake the Pracection of
theis
2
The Roman Hiſtory
314
Chap. VI.
1200.
a
A. D. their Common Father, whoſe Inhuman Brother had
depriv'd him of his Crown and the Light of the Sun.
Irene having dilpos d Philip to enter into a Confede
racy to ſee the Young Alexius on his Father's Throne,
that Prince went to Verice to implore the Aflittance of
the Republick.
To underſtand the Diſpoſition of the Venetians in
The Carles Favour of the Prince, 'twill be neceffary to look back
of the Ve-
little into the State of the Affairs of tbar Nation with
netians
Reference to the Greeks : The Venetians had for many
Quarrel
Years maintain'd a cloſe Friendſhip with the Romans,
with the
for the Benefit of their Trade to the Levant, and to
Romans.
ſtrengthen themſelves againſt the Genoueſe and Piſans,
who were very trong in the Eaſt. The Pilans obſer:
ving what Advantage their Alliance with the Romans
was tº them, careís'd the Miniſters of the Empire,
courted the Emperor's Friendſhip, and by their Money
and Flattery acquir'd more Friends in the Court of
Conſtantinople than the Venetians themſelves had. The
latrer enrag d to find the Piſans were preferr'd in all
Caſes where their Intereſts came in Competition, re.
folv'd to be reveng'd, taking it as a high Affront to be
flighred by choſe to whom they had for a long while
been profeſt Friends. Henry Dandalo, at that Time
Doge of Venice, bore a mortal Harred to the Romans
for the Barbarous Treatment he mer with in the Court
of the Emperor Manuel, when he reſided there as Am.
baſſador from he State of Venice, above Forty Years
before, where for boldly afferting the Righ's, and vin-
dicating the Honour of his Country, the Einperor ore
der'd a red hor Plare of Iron to be held before his Eyes,
by wh ch, though his Sight was nor lot, 'was very
much impair’d: Such Ulage might juſtly be remen-
ber'd for an Age, and be reveng'd at the greateſt Di.
Dandalo
ftance of Time, being contrary to the Law of Nations.
che Doge
too weak ta
Dandalo knowing the Republick was
forms 2
Conspiring
make War with the Roman Empire, engag'd ſeveral
agairie
Princes to enter into a League for the Relief of the Ho-
them. ly Land: By which they obligd themſelves to attack
the Roman Emperor firſt, to revenge the Perjuries of the
Greckirin the former Croiſades. The Chief of cheſe Prince's
were Bonifice, Maguifs of Montferrat, Baldmin, Earl
of Flanders, Henry, Earl of St. Paul, and Lemon, Earl
of
1
1
Chap. VI.
315
Alexius Angelus.
.....
i
of Blois. Three Years were ſpent in Naval Prepara: A. D.
cions for this Expedition : Their Fleet conſiſted of 240 1 200.
Sail, aboard which they embark'd a Thouſand Horſe
and Thirty Thouſand Foot. When they were ready
to fail, the Young Alexius deliver'd them Letters from
the Pope and the Emperor Philip, containing in Sub-
ſtanice a Requeſt that they would reſtore him to the
Throne of his Anceſtors, which they would both take
as a particular Obligation. The Princes accepred of
the Propofal with Joy, believing Alexius's Name and
Intereſt would be of great Service to them in their Un-
dertaking, knowing how odious his Uokle Alexius bad
render'd himſelf to the Romans. He promis'd on his
Parr to furniſh them with Immenſe Sums of Money, a
great Body of Troops, Fifry Galleys ; And what,
ſays my Author, was more ridiculous than that, to em-
brace the Latin Innovations in Matters of Faith, to re-
nounce the Old Cuſtoms of the Romans, and obey the
New Laws of the Pope. The Fleer being ready, ſaild
from the ſeveral Ports, where they were fitting out, to
Zara in Dalmatia, the Place of their Rendezvous,
which City they maſter'd, and it has ever ſince been
ibe Fourth
fubject to the Republick of Venice, for whom the Doge Croiſade.
Henry Dandalo conquer'd it.
When Alexius was inform’d of the Mighty Fleet that
was on his Coafts, he did nothing in Order to his own
Alexius's
Preſervation, nor for the common Defence of the Em. Stupidity.
pire ; he was ſo ſoftned by a long Courſe of Effemi-
nacy and Luxury, that he could not, had he loft his
Senſes, have been more uncapable of. Action. The
Eunuchs, who guarded the Mountains and Forrefts for
the preſerving of his Game with as much Care and
Zeal as the ancient Heathens defended the Groves and
Woods Sacred to their Deicies, chreaten'd thoſe that
offer'd to fell Trees to build Ships, with immediate
Death. The Admiral Michael Stryforus, who had mar-
ry'd the Empreſs's Siſter, fold the Rudders, Anchors,
Sails, Cordage, Mafts, and all the Ships-Scores; and
the Emperor, inſtead of puniſing ſuch as were guilty
of this Walte, fo fatal to his and his Empire's Intereſt,
eſteem'd them, cheriſhe and promored them more than
ány other Perſons. While the Venetians were preparing
co turn him out of the linpesial Throne, he amus'd
himſelf
1
316
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
I
A. D. kimfelf with levelling Hills, filling up Valleys, and
-1200. fitcing Places for his Retirements; in which he would
laugh over his Bowls at the Preparations of the Italia
ans, and rally thoſe that appear'd to be ſurpriz’d at
chem. However when he heard that the Danger was
approaching, that they had taken Zara, were landed
at Dyrrachium, and in Poffeffion of that City, where
Alexius
the People had receiv'd them with Joy, and Proclaim'd
the Youn-
his Nephew Alexius Emperor, he began to ſtir a lit-
get prom
cluindi
tle: though 'twas then too late, and what he did for
Emperor.
the Defence of his Perſon and Dignity, was to no Pur.
poſe.
The La-
From Dyrrachium the Italians fail'd to Corfu, and
dins - from thence to Confi antinople ; the Wind was ſo fa.
Afege Con- vourable to them, and their Paſſage fo fort, that they
itantino- arriv'd there before any Body heard of their coming
ple that Way. They were driv'n over to Chalcedon on the
Bosphorus oppofire 10 Conſtantinople. The Wind being
ftiff Welterly, they were forc'd to take to their Oars
,
by the Help of wbich they made over to Pera ; from
thence they advanc'd above the Two Pillars on the
Banks of the Propontis, where they caft Anchor; the
lighter Veffels anchor'd at Scutari, a Village on the
Thracian Bofphorus. The Romans, who were poſted on
the Banks of the Propontis, ſhot at the Italians incef-
fane Sbowers of Arrows; the ſame did the Soldiers
from Forts, but wiih no Effect; their Arrows fell into
the Sea, and the Italians approachd nearer the Shoar.
The Troops that lay at Danmeris to oppofe the Del-
cent of the Enemies Cavalry, fled as ſoon as the Italia
came in Sight ; their Commanders, who were as
fearful and as rimerous as Deer, firſt ſhewing them the
Way. Baldwin.Earl ot Flanders, who commanded the
Body of French Horſe and Foor which landed at Dama-
iris, advancd towards the City, in Order of Bar-
rel; and Henry Dandalo approach'd towards the Ha-
ven with the Venetian Fleet, inrending to attack the
Place by Sea and Land at one and the fame Time The
Dege, Old as he was, animated his Soldiers ard Ma.
siners by his Vigour and Bravery, ſtanding on the
Poop of the Admiral of Venice, near the Standard of
St. Mark, with his Sword in bis Hand, giving Dire-
etions with as much Spirit and Reaſon as if he had
been
&
!
S-
'
Chap. VI.
317
Alexius Angelus.
I 200m
been in the Flower of his Age. Baldwin lodgʻd his A. D.
Men in the Fews Quarter ; and Dandalo, that he might
not be behind-hand with him, cut the Chain, which
lay croſs the Port from the Acropolis to Galata, with
an Engine contriv'd for that Purpoſe, enter'd the Ha-
ven, and took and burnt the few Ships that he found
there. Then the Doge and the Earl put all Things in
Order to attack the Town, Dandalo by Sea, and Bald.
win by Land. They batter'd the Walls for Eight
Days together, and appointed the Ninth for a general
Affault, which was perform’d with a Bravery ſuitable
to the Danger and Importance of the Action. The
Greeks, beſides the Superiority of their Numbers, had
the Advantage of their Fortifications, and at firſt they
made good their Ground on all Sides with great Re-
folution ; but Dandalo, impatient to poffe is char City
in which he had been ſo barbarouſly use, did an Acti-
on which gaind him Immortal Honour. He com-
inanded all his Men, on Pain of Death, to uſe their
Skill and Force to get afhoar, promiſing Rewards to
ſuch as behav'd themſelves well in the Deicent, and
threatning thoſe that did not, with terrible Paniſhments.
The Soldiers, in Obedience to their General's Com-
mands, brought their Galleys up to the Walls of the
City, notwithſtanding the vigorous Refiftance made by
the Greeks, laid their Scaling Ladders to thein, mounted
with Sword in Hand, Dandalo being with the foremoſt ;
and when he got up, he plac'd the Standard of St. Mark
on a Tower which he leiz'd: His Men defying all
Dangers to follow their Old General, foon made them-
felves Masters of Twenty-five Towers along the Shoar,
and firing the Houſes in that Quarter, put the City is
a Flame from the Hill of Blachernae to the Monastery
of Evergetes. The French, who were lodg'd in the
Jepps Quarters, and did not expect that the l'enetians
would get into the Town ſo ſoon, were amaz'd to
ſee St. Mark's Standard on the Wall; but when they
thought the Wat was over with their Companions,
'cwas but beginning with them : For now Arxius,
provok'd so it by the Cries and Complaints of the
People, who openly reproach'd him with cowardize,
telling him, 'twas chat only which had embo!dned the
Enemy to enter the Imperial City, got together a good
Body
318
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
Ifaac An- lace Emperor Iſaac was comin'd, fer him at Liberty,
A. D. Body of Horſe and Foot, put himſelf at their Head,
1200. ſally'd out on the French, and made a Shew of endea.
vouring to diflodge them ; which he might eaſily have
done, bad his Heart been as good as that of Theodorys
Laſcaris, his Son-in-Law, who deſir'd to have the
Command of them, and to charge the Enemy. Alexius's
Fears encreas'd as he drew nearer the Italians, and
hearing that the Brave Dandalo had ſent his Confede.
rares a Reinforcement from his Army, his Cowardice
would not permit him to come to an Engagement :
He rang'd bis Men in Order of Battel, and made a
Shew of Fighting, but he could not overcome the Ter.
Alexius
the Elder’s rors that lay on "his Mind in the View of his paft Guilt
and preſent Peril; he ſhamefully turn'd his Back as
Comar.
dize.
ſoon as he came in Sight of the Enemy, and his Men
doing the farne, the French obrain's an eaſie Victory,
driving them to the very Gates of the City, and put-
ting moſt of them to the Sword, dying of diſhonoura.
ble Wounds, which they ow'd to the Cowardice of
their Leader. When the Emperor gor into his Palace
again, he meditated how to get farther off from the
Enemy, and had no Thoughts of maintaining his Dig.
nity ; if he could ſave his Life 'rwas as much as he ex-
pected or deſir'd. He comunicared his Reſolution to
fome Women who were to be the Companions of his
Flight, and the Deſign agreeing with their Fears, they
approv'd of it, and 'twas immediately pur in Execu.
tion. A ſmall Ship was hir'd, Aboard which Alexius
He Alves put a vaſt Quantity of Gold and Diamonds, and in
from Coa-the Night time fled to Dobelrum, abandoning his Wife
Atantino-
and Children and the Capital City of the Eaſtern
ple,
World to the Mercy of his Enemies.
The People hearing of the Emperor's Flight, and des
teſting his. baſe cowardly Terrper, reſolvid he thould
no more reign over them, let the Face of rheir City be
what it would. So they ran to the Priſin where the
i
gelus re-
and carry'd him to the Throne from whence he had
Stor’d to
been driv'n Eight years and Three Months before.
the Sove- They ſeiz'd the Einpreſs Euphrolyne and all the evil
rignay.
Counſellors of the lait Reign, and fenc Ward to the
younger Alexius and the Princes that his, Unkle was
gorc and his Father reſtor'd to the Imperial Power, de-
firing
Chap. VI.
319
Alexius Angelus.
1
1200.
firing thac Prince to come and ſhare the Sovereignty A. D.
with him. The Princes, who had a very ill Opinion
of the Sincerity of the Geeks, would not part with
Alexius will be had ratify'd by Oach the Treaties he
had made with them in Italy, which were very advan.
rageous to the Italians: Then the Generals of the Croi.
ſade accompany'd Alexius, the Son of Ifaac, into Con-
tantinople, where the Prince was falured Emperor and
his Confederates were receiv'd by both the Emperors Fa. Alexius
bis Son
ther and Son as the Deliverers of heis Empire. On the
ſalured Em
iſt of Auguſt, Anno 1203. the younger A'exius was
Crown'd in the Church of St. Sophia ; and as ſoon as Conftan-
he was in Poffeffion of the Sovereign Authority, he tinople.
empey'd the Treaſures of the Empire in Profuſe Pre.
12030
ſents to the French and Italian Princes, ; he melted
down the Images in the Churches, the Conſecrated
Vefſels, and beſtow'd on them all the Honours of the
Empire, which they thought fit to accept of.
peror in
Alexius Angelus II.
1
THE Family of the Angeli was Fatal to the Roman
Empire. Iſaac, whom the People advanc'd
Twice to the Throne, began the Tyranny, which his
Brother Alexius, and his Son of the ſame Name, the
laſt Emperor of his Race, continu'd. The Citizens
of Conſtantinople preferr'd him in che Hear of their Re-
ſentment of Andronicus Comnenus's Cruelties and the
Effect of their Choice was like the Conſequences of
Things done rathly and in halte. They ſoon repented
of their Proceedings, and wifht they had had more
Time to deliberate on the Meric of the Perſon before
they pitch'd upon a Succeſſor ro Andronicus.
Alexius the younger, after his Advancement, recon.
cild the Pilans and Venetians, who had a long Time
been
open Enemies in the Eaſt, on Account of the Ri-
valſhip of the Two Nations in the Trade of the Leo
The Piſans dwelt molt at Pera, and cie Em-
peror by his lace Alliance with the Vengrians had ſuch
an Influence crer them, that he prevail'd with then
to viſit their Countrymen the Pifans there, 'for they
were
vant.
1
320
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. V.
;
}
À. D. were Italians all, and there they contracted a mutual
1203. Friendſhip, to the Advantage of both Nations; which
good Correſpondence was a Detriment to the Roman
Commerce.
Alexius knowing how ſerviceable the Pope's Letters
of Recommendation had been to him, and how bene-
ficial his Protection might be, wrote a very obliging
Epiſtle to the Biſhop of Rome, Innocent III. infamous
for his inſolent Carriage towards Otho, firnam'd the
Proud, Emperor of Germany, and John, King of Eng.
land. The Greek Emperor thankd him for the Alli.
ftance he had met with by his Means, and promis'd
to promote a Reunion between the Latin and Greek
Churches to the utmoſt of his Power : But the Submiſ.
fions he made to the Pope gave his Subjects an Aver.
fion to his Government ; for though the Greeks abomi.
mated the Dominion of the Weſtern Princes, whom
they looke upon as Barbarians, they had rather ſubmit
themſelves to them in Civil Matters, than pay any
Obedience to the pretended Head of the Latin Church,
whoſe Uſurpation they abhorr'd.
The Revolution that had lately happend at Conſtan-
tinople being brought about by the French and Italians,
the People of thoſe Nations valu'd themſelves mightily
upon it, and thought it gave them a Right to commit all
manner of Violences without Puniſhment or Coutroul ;
ſome of them, as well Tradeſmen as Soldiers, plun-
der'd the Houſes of the Jew's in the Quarter afſign'd
to them to inhabit, enter'd their Synagogue forcibly at
the Time of their Worthip, and put all they found
there to the Sword. The Fews fogk Arins to defend
their Relations and Friends, and the Romans provok'd
at the Inſolence of the Franks, ſo the Weſtern Nations
were calld in the Levant, join'd with the Jews to repell
this Multitude. The Franks not being able to main-
tain their Ground againſt both, defited in their Aro
The City rempts to rob the Jews : Bur to revenge themſelves
burnt by
on the Romans for fiding with the Fews, they fir'd the
the French. City in ſeveral Places. The Flame was at firſt driv'na
forward hy a Northerly Wind, and when it had de
ftroy d the North Part of the Town, it chang'd to the
Eaſt, and overwhelm'd the Ciry with a Torrent of
Fire, whoſe Rage was irreſiſtible, and its Force un-
conquerable ;
1
Chap. VI. Alexius Angelus IT.
321
1
.
conquerable; private Houſes, publick Edifices and Pa- Á. D•
laces fell before its Fury ; prodigious Quantities of 1:00.
Rich Furniture, the belt l'art of the Wealth of the City
periſht in the Flames, and a vaſt Length of Ground,
which had before been adorn'd with the moſt Magnifi.
cent Buildings of the Eaſt, was reduc'd to a Heap of
Ruin and Aſhes. The Citizens durit not venture to
run to the Affiſtance of their Friends, for fear of be-
ing conſum d by the Fire on the Way, and there was
no Safery for any but on the Water, whither the Peo-
ple retir'd, and got into Boats to eſcape the dreadful
Conflagration, a lively Image of the Laſt Terrible Day.
The Old Emperor jaac was very much troubled at
ſo fad an Accident; but Alexius, bis Son, like a Ses
cond Nero, ſaw the City on Fire with Indifference, if
nor with Delight, and initead of being ſorry that ſo
much of it was deſtroy'd, he would have been very
well pleas'd to have ſeen it all in a Flame. The Fire
was ſcarce out before he fell to melting down the Reft
of the Church-Plate, which the French cook with Gree-
dineſs, not confidering from whence it was taken,
provided the Money it made was put in their Pockets;
lo inſatiable has the Avarice of char Nation always
been.
Though the elder Alexius was driven out of Conftans
iinople, he was ſtill in the Empire; and own'd as En-
peror in ſeveral Ciries of Thrace: He left Debeltus,
and went to Adrianople, ſeiz'd the City, and reſolv'd
to diſpute the Sovereignty ftill with his brother and
Nephew His Son-in Law Theodoras Lafcaris, who
had croſs'd the Hellefpont, and rais'd Forces in Bithynia
for his Service, maintain'd bis Dominion in Aſia ; by
which Means the Two Emperors ar Corſi antinople
thought themſelves very little ſecure of the Empire
while thoſe Princes were in Arms; they earneſtly dc-
fit'd the Italian and French Princes. to finish the good
Work they had begun. and to fix them on the Throne
before they part over into Aſia to continue their Expe-
dition to the Holy Land. As much as A!exit's had
gie'n them already, they muſt have more, or they will
Hot ftir à Step furiver in his Qüarrel; which be found
Means to raiſe for them, and gave the Marquiſs of
fiontierra particularly Sixteen Hundied Crowns of
*
0
322
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. Gold to keep him from going into Aſia. He repre-
1200. fented to them all, that unleſs they would reduce his
Unkle, he could not furnith them with the Men, Mo-
ney, Ships, and Proviſions which he had oblig'd bim-
ſelf by Treary.to ſupply them with: Thele Reaſons,
and the Seaſon fer Action being almoſt ſpent, induc'd
them to ay till the next Spring. They fent a Body of
· Troops againſt Alexius, . the Franks defeated the Uſur-
per's Army, and cblig’d him to follow his Son-in-Law
into Aſia : After which they put their Forces into Win-
ter-Quarters, reſolving, early in the Spring to proceed
in their intended Journey to Ferufalem.
In the mean Time an Accident happen'd, which
employ'd their Arms once more againſt Conftantinople;
for the Two Emperors continuing to impoveriſh the
Church and Staie ro enrich the French and Italians, the
Greeks were generally fo diſcontented, thar a Revolu-
tion was eaſy to be foreſeen. The Old Emperor and the
Young One diſagreed, Iſaac being jealous that his Son
encroach'd 100' inuch upon him ; he reſented that in
the Publick Acclamations the Name of Alexius was
fhouted with more Vehemence in Court and City. than
his own, and that his Son preferr'à che very Men to
Places of Truſt and Profit, who had advis'd the Uſur-
per Alexius to depoſe bin and put out his Eyes. 'Tis
á Sign of very little Reformation in a Court, when the
Prince, who dethrones his Predeceſſor for Male-admi.
niftration, continues the wicked Miniſters that were
the Authors of the Diſorders which ruin'd their old
Mafer ; fuch Miniſters as made their Fortune by Op-
preſtion and Injultice, will never promote Virtue and
Merit, nor encourage thoſe good Qualities in a Prince
which are a Reproof of their own Practices. The
Young Emperor gave himſelf up to all Manner of De-
The roun- bauchery and Extravagance ; he ſpent whole Days and
@r, Alex- Nights in Drinking and Gaming in the Camp of the
jui's ill
italians, fuffering them and the French, the moſt for-
Quedlities. ward familiar People of the Univerſe, to take thoſe Li-
berries with him which were a Scandal to his Dignity :
Rip Sonie of chele Perclanen had the Impudence to take off
done of
0122 French.
the Imperial Crown from his Head, and put it on their
ON ; ac orher Times they would clap their little Caps
on hiin with as invas Freedom ºs if he had been their
Folloit',
د
:
1
Chap. VI. - Alexius Angelus IT.
323
120G,
i
Fellow, which render'd him contemptible to all the Ro- A. D.
mans who had any Senſe of Decency or Honour, and
even to thoſe of the Franks who underltood themſelves
beft.
The Latins, that were quarter'd in the Neigh-
bourhood of Conſtantinople, liv'd ar Diſcretion, as if
they had been in an Enemy's Country; they plunder’d
and ſpoild the Fine Houſes which the Nobility had
built on the Propontis, taking Pleaſure to waſte and
deſtroy what they could not carry away with them.
The Romans were impatient to revenge the Loffes they
ſuffer d, and demanded of the Emperor to let them
have ſome Troops, and they would chaſtiſe the Info-
lence of the French ; telling him, if he was any more
than Emperor in Name, he would not endure the Af-
fronts put upon him by the Latins. Alexius would not
hearken to any Remonſtrances or Peritions of that
kind, he believ'd the Deſign was equally dangerous,
and ungrateful to fall upon the Men to whom he ow'd
his Dignity ; beſides he feard if his Foreigners ſhould
leave him the Greeks would nor long ſupport him in
the Throne. Ifaac his Father was alſo of Opinion thao
be hould neglect the Clamours of the Rabble, and
take Care r.oe to offend thoſe that had done ſuch great
Things for them. The Two Emperors diſcouraging
their Subjects in their Artempts to bring the Franks to
Reaſon, the Greeks were like Slaves forc'd to bear
whatever Burdens they laid upon them, no' Man daring
to draw his Sword againſt them : The only Man who
tins oppreſs
ventur’d to exclaim-publickly at the Barbarities com- the Greeks
mitted by the Franks, was Alexius Ducas, firnamd
Mutzuphilus, becauſe the Hair of his Eybrows mer,
and hung very thick over his Eyes: He was of the fi-
Inftrious Houſe of Ducas, and for his High Deſcent,
and his Averſion to the French and Italiars, he had
gain'd the Affection of the People : llaec had adopred Alexius
him according to the Cuſtom of the Greek Enperors, Múrtzu-
who us'd to paſs that Compliment on ſuch as they in philus den
tended to Honour, either Grecks or Foreigners. Hisilicies ac
Ambition was aſpiring enough to aim at the Imperialg:ipfi them
Crown, and he thought he could never have a better and guisas
the Firolit
Opportunity to obtain it than now that the Two Em-
perors were hated by Court and City, by Perſons of of the leer
$!! Degrees, for their Complacency to the Latins, a de-
fpicable
ples
Y?
1
324
The Romani Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A. D. fpicable People in the Eyes of the Greeks. To accom
1200. plith his Deligns, he took Arms, under Pretence of de.
fending his Countrymen againſt the Inſults of the
French. Himſelf and a few of his Followers attack'd a
Party of the Latins in the City, and was in Danger of
loſing his Life, no Body coming to his Afliltance, the
young Emperor having firictly forbidden it. At laſt
the Citizens, who expected that the Guards would
have parted the Combatants, ſeeing Alexius had aban.
don'd Mu tzupbilus to the Fury of the French, who
out-number'd him and his Parry, ran to help him, and
the Multitude being once up, began to form Deſigns
of revenging themſelves on both the Emperors before
they diſperlt again : Some of their Leaders propos'd
going to the Grear Church to chuſe a new Emperor,
which was unanimouſly agreed upon. The Senate and
Clergy came thither to proceed to an Election, left the
Rabble ſhould have prevented them, and impos'd a
Maſter upon them. The Senators propoſing one of
the Einperors then reigning, the People cry'd out they
would have neither of them, and with their Swords in
A 2016
their Hand threaten’d to fall upon them if i'hey would
Emperor nor elect ſome other Man to reign over them.' Three
bojon. Days were ſpent in Debates about the Matter, and on
the fourth Nicholas Cannabas was choſen Emperor,
tho' he did whatever he could to avoid it.
Alexius hearing of this dangerous Inſurrection, ſent to
his Friend Boniface, Marquiſs of Montferrat, to come
to his Relief; reſolving to fill the Imperial Palace with
Italians and French, to oppoſe the new Emperor and his
Faction. Murtzuphilus ſeeing the People in ſo good a
Diſpoſition, to ſuffer a change of Government; deſpis’d
Carnabas as a Tool that ſerv'd for the preſent Occaſion,
and when that was over, might be laid by. Ifaac, the
old Emperof, was dying, and the young one going about
an Attempt, which Ducas knew would diſoblige all the
Grecks. For which Reaſons, having engag'd one of the
chief Officers of the Treaſury in bis Intereſt, he reſoiv'd
to break out into open Rebellion, and ſet up for him.
felf. He declar'd to the Greek Soldiers, and the Citi-
žers, That the Emperor intended to ſurrender the Palace to
Strangers, and put a Foreign Yoke on their Necks; that he
had given Crete to the Latins, and intended to oblige the
Greek
Chap. VI.
325
Alexius Angelus II.
Greek Church to ſubmit to the See of Rome. The Mul- A. D.
eitude were all on fire at this Declaration, and ready to 1203
do any thing he would have him. He then went im. Mertzu-
mediately to Alexius, who had a great Opinion of his philus ſets
the Greeks
Fidelity and Affection to him, and had Honour'd him
with the Charge of Protoveſtiary, or Maſter of the against the
Wardrobe. The Traytor ſeem'd out of Pity to viſit younger
.
him in the Night, telling him with a doleful Voice,
That there was an infinite Crowd of People at the Gates
of the Palace, who threaten'd to Tear him to Pieces for
treating with the Italians. Alexius Trembling for Fear,
ask'd him, what he ſhould do : Upon which Murtzu-
philus wrap'd him up in his own Robe, which trail'd betrays
on the Ground, and carry'd him out a private way to him,
his Tent ; from whence he was led to Priſon and loaden wwders
with Irons. Murtzuphilus pur on the Imperial Orna- bim,
And af
ments, and affum’d the Title of Emperor. Some of
fumes the
the Citizens own'd him as ſuch, and others were for
Imperi:
Cannabas. Bur Ducas being a Man of more Spirit and powere
Ambition, had the greater Party on his fide; lo Cannt.
bas's Friends forſook him, and he was apprehended by
Murizuphilus's Order. The Traytor gave Poiſon twice
to Alexius, which not having the deſir'd Effect, he was
Strangled the sth of February, having Reign'd only fix
Months and eight Days.
1
Alexius Murtzuphilus,
HE Confuſion in the Greek Empire, was a dire Preu
ſage of its approaching Fate; it being almoit in-
poffible for the Greeks, who were ſo terribly divided
among themfelves, to relift ſo formidable a Power as
the Franks had at their Gates, Tho' Ducas had ob-
tain'd the Empire by Parricide, and was naturally in-
clind to Eaſe and Pleaſure ; yer as ſoon as he was in
the Poffefſion of the ſovereign Power, he began a Re-
formation in the State and Army. He reſum'd all the
unreaſonable Grants made in the former Reigns, and
apply'd the Money to the Charge of the War. He
reſtorid Diſcipline among the Soldiers, appear'd every
Day in Armour to Exerciſe them, and so them for
Y 3
ASI
--
:
326
1
War
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
A.D. Action. This gain'd him the Love of the Citizens,
1203. who were pleas'd to ſee a Prince on the Throne, that
was follicitous for their Preſervation ; but his Friends
and Companions, that had been us'd to ſpend their
Time in Riot and Wanconnefs, could not endure the
Farigues and the Severicy of Military Diſcipline. An-
other Sign of the Ruin of a State, when the Officers
and Soldiers are Impatient under cheir Duty.
The Franks being imforni'd that Alexius their Confe.
derate, was Dethron'd and Murther’d, reſolv'd nor on-
ly to Revenge bis Death, but to poffers themſelves of
The Latins
the City of Conſtantinople, which lay convenient for the
declare Pallage of the Weſtern Chriſtians to the Holy Land;
and for want of which, the Princes of the foriner Crui
with bim. fades miſcarry'd in their Enterprizes.
Murtzuphilus expecting to have à War
War with
them, ſally'd out on the Earl of Flanders, who with a
Party of Flemands and French, over-ran the Country
about Philea, Robd and Spoil'd it without Mercy,
raiſing Contriburions as far as the Suburbs of Conftanti.
ondple. The Emperor's Soldiers fled ar light of the Ene-
my, leaving their new i'rince alone to take care of his
own Safety, which he could only do by flight. The
Standard of the Greek Empire, wherein was drawn the
Image of the Virgin Mary, fell into the Hands of the
They attack French, who flund with this Succeſs, prepard to ale
Conftan-' jack the Cry on one ſide, while the Venetians aſſaulted
tinople. ; on another. The French undertook ro Storm it by
I.anit, and the Venetians engag'd at the ſame time to do
it by Sea. To prevent the Effufion of Chriſtian Blood,
à Treaty of Peace was ſee on foot, and the Doge had a
Conference with Murtzupliilus about it. Dandalo de-
"manded Fifty Thouſand Livres of Gold to be paid
down, 20d other Conditions intollerable to a People
who had any norion of Liberty. This Conference and
Treaty war manag'd at Sc. Cofmus Church on the Banks
of the Prop.ntis; and the Italians perceiving 'twas like,
ly to come to nothing, would have ſeiz'd Ducas, had he
hot rode from them with as much Speed as his Horſe
22. Fr.203 could carry him. Sone of his Followers were taken ;
whisartfair Dealing to exaſperated the Greeks, that the
Faks.
Peze was no more jälk'd of, and both Gides made Pre-
parations for a vigorous War. The Princes had got all
Things
0
1
Chap. VI. Alexius Murtzuprilus.
327
Things ready for a general Affauk by the oth of April; A.D,
they were animated by a deſire of Glory, ſome of
12040
them by a luft of Power, their Soldiers by hopes of
Plundering the richeſt City in the World. The Geks
Fought for their All, their Liberty, their Religion and
Eſtates, and the Action was a long time blondy and
doubtful. The Defendants behavid idemíclves with
ſuch Bravery, that after a Storm of ſeveral Hours, they
repelld the Affailants about Three in the Afternoch,
with the loſs of a great Number as well Greeks as Itali.
ans. The next Day the Beſiegers lay quiet, it being
Sunday; and on Monday about Noon the Franks renew it
the Affault, but were again beaten of; however tbey
return'd to the Battel, and two Soldiers deſperately
mounted a Tower, fought and flew thoſe they found
there, and held up their Hands as a Token of Con-
queſt and Joy to their Companions. At the ſame time
one Peter, a Frenchman, of gyganrick Srature, erter'd
by the Gate of that Tower, which happend to be the
Quarter where Murtzupbilus fought in Perfon, and the
Grecks terrify'd' at the appearance of ſo formidable an
Enemy, fled from their posts; . which the Fiench and
Venetians perceiving, they pour'd in upon them from
They take
the Sea thoar and by Land, and enter'd the City with-
the City
out any further Oppoſition. The reſt of the Day was 11 Plurie
{pent by the Latins in Acts of Blood and Rapine. The der ide
French put all to the Sword without diſtinguithing Age,
Sex or Condition, and fill'd the City with Horror and
Deſpair. They drew up in Order of Bartle towards
Night, to prevent any furprize from the Greeks, having
enrich'd themſelves with the Spoils of the Emperor's
Tent, and the Palace of Blachernaz. Mllri uphilus șan
up and down the Streets to rally his Men, but neither
Prayers nor Promiſes could prevail with them to return
to the Battle. So the Town was abandon'd to the Cru-
elty and Avarice of the French. A Judgement fo Tere
rible, conſidering the Diſpoſition of the Conquerors that
even at this time we cannot think of it without a Heart
full of Compafion for lo miſerable a People
The Cicizens in the Nighe time has their Wealth, and
fome of them fied from the Fory of ine victorious fortzun
Franks ; among theſe was the Emperor himleif, who
philus les
ſceing that all Rcfliance was in yain, gora Ship-board
and
1
328
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. Ví.
i
i
.
+
A D. and made his eſcape, taking with him the Empreſs Eu.
3204, phrolyne, and her Daughter Eudoxia, with whom be
was violently in Love; a Paſſion to which he was very
fubjcct. His Flight put an end to his ſhort Reign; and
as ſoon as he was gone, Theodorus Ducas and Theodorus
Laſcaris diſputed the Poſſeſſion of an Empire, which
was like a Veffel toft by a Tempeft, the Sport of For-
cune and the Waves. They both went to the Great
Church, and refer'd themſelves to the Arbitration of the
Senate and the Clergy: Laſcaris had the latter on his
fide, an Intereſt that in all Elections has too much Power,
unleſs it was us'd to better purpoſe; and the Senators
were afraid of intermedling in the Choice of a Prince
of their own Nation, when Foreigners were Maſters
of their City. Laſcaris refus'd to put on the Imperial
Ornaments, and went about the Streets to endeavour to
inſpire the Citizens with new Courage, and animate
them, by his Example, to make another Effort the next
Day for the recovery of their Liberty, which they had
loft. He told the Guards, That if they were ſubjected
to a Foreign Power, they muſt loſe their Arrears, and
Theodo-. be reduc'd to the Condition of common Soldiers; but
rus Laſca- neither Guards nor Citizens would ſtir in the defence
cis flyes in- of their Country, and the Italians ſending out Parties
in Aſia, af-
then againſt him, he was forc'd to fly into Aſia; from whence
Glergy had it appears by Nicetas's Hiſtory, that he rerurn’d in the
chosen bin Reign of Baldwin, to oppoſe the Franks whom he mor-
The next Day the Greeks threw themſelves at the Feet
of the Conquerors, and implor'd their Mercy. They
met them with Crucifixes and Images in their Hands
inſtead of Arms, advancing towards them in a ſolemn,
peaceable Proceſſion, and not in order of Battle, receive
ing the victorious Italians and French in Triumph; but
all their Subrifions, could not fofren the hard Hearts
of the French, whoſe Cruclty always increas'd with
their Power. They rode up and down the City with
Cheir drarın Swords, driving the poor Greeks before
Cruelty shem, and comvirring all ſorts of Cruelty without the
leat Giew of Compaſſion to the Miſeries of their fel-
120ch,
low Chriftians. They broke the Images of the Saints
air Ime thar suere not in the Latin Legend : They took away
I.Y.
the Chuices and Confecrated Cups, tore off the
Jewels
ter
Emperor, tally Hated.
E the
}
Chap. VI.
329
Alexius Murtzuphilus.
Jewels and other Ornaments that were upon them, and A. D.
turn'd the Veſſels, into Drinking-Bowls. They broke 1301a
the high Altar of the great Church, which was account-
ed one of the fineſt Pieces of Workmanſhip in the
World, and brought their Horſes and Mules into the
Quire, to load them with the rich Moveables they found
there. A Woman who follow'd their Camp, ſat down
in the Patriarchal Chair, and Sung lewd Songs in the
Holy Places, Dancing and Singing where the pious
Greeks us'd ro Offer up their Prayers to the Moit High,
and Chant his Praiſe with divine Hallelujahs. They
bad no regard to Women of Honour, innocent Maids,
and Virgins devoted to Religious Lives; nothing but
Cries and Groans were co be heard in the Streets or
Houſes. The moſt illuſtrious Perſons, whoſe Quality
or Age commanded Reſpect, were treated with the moſt
inhumane Uſage, and turn'd out to Poverty and Con-
tempt.
And thoſe of them that were ſuſpected to have
hid their beſt Effects, as moſt of them had done, were
put to the Torture to oblige them to diſcover their
Wealth. The Greeks being entirely Conquer'd in the
Imperial City, the Latins reſolv'd to make it the Seat
of their Empire in the Eaſt, which they divided among
them with as much Aſurance, as if they were already
Maſters of all the Eaſtern Provinces that ever were ſub.
ject to the Romans. They took down the Gates of Con.
ſtantinople and the Chain croſs the Haven, and ſent them The Latina
to their Friends in Syria, as a Token of cheir Victory.cbuſe an
Then they met together in the Church of the Twelve Emperor of
Apoſtles, to chuſe an Emperor. There were Ten their own
Electors choſen, five French and five Venetian; Henry Nation.
Dandalo, the Doge, being appointed to have the calting
Voice, if the Number of che Electors, in favour of
One Perſon, ſhould be equal.
Baldwin IX. Earl of Flanders and Hainsult, Son of Baldwin
Baldwin the Couragious, and Margaret of Alface, had IX, Eart
the plurality of Voices; which was thought to be brought of Flari-
about by the good Management of Dandalo, who being deri, cko-
Blind, and conſequently not Qualify'd for the Throne fen Empe-
himſelf
, made intereelt for a Prince, whoſe Dispoſition or ofCon-
ftantiae
was the moſt Sweet and Moderare. 'Twas believ'd he
was willing to have an Emperor choſen, wioſe Domini-ple
.
1
ons
330
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII,
1
A. D. ons in the Weſt, were at the grearelt diſtance from thoſe
2204. of the Republick. For had Boniface, Marquiſs of Mont-
ferrat, whoſe Territories were contiguous with the
Stares, been advanc'd to the Imperial Throne; ſuch an
Acceffion of Power might have render'd him too for.
midable to the common Wealth of Venice; and if the
Venetians Mould happen to have any Diſpute with him in
the Eaſt, he could eaGly have Invaded their Dominions
in Italy. Beſides, the Marquiſs was a famous Caprain,
a Man of as much Experience as Valour, and Baldwin
was ſcarce Thirty Two Years of Age when he was
choſen Emperor. He had a mighty Elteem and Vene.
ration for the Doge, he us'd to call him Father, and Ho.
nour d him as ſuch. This Prince had a great many Qua-
lities, which recommended him to the Votes of the Elea
ctors. He was Brave, Liberal, Chaſt, Pious, Merci.
ful, Compaſſionate, and Eaſie of Acceſs; always ready
His Charita
der
to hearken to good Advice, and to follow it. His Con.
rinence was ſo exemplary, that all the while he was
abſent from his Wife, we are cold, he never look'd on
another Woman with unlawful Glances ; and twice a
Week he order'd Proclamation to be made in his Court,
Thar whoever had been guilty of the Sin of Adultery,
should abhain coming there. A Prince adorn'd with
ſuch Virtues, ſeem'd worthy the Dominion of the Eaſt;
but Providence had not ordain'd that the Greek Empire
should be long held in Slavery by the Latins; and the
imore Reign of Baldwin prepar'd a way for the recove.
ху
of her former Power over Europe. Baldwin was
choſen Emperor of Conſtantinople the oth of May, 1204;
and from ihe Date of his Reign we muſt put a Period
ro that of the Greek Emperors in that City, till their
Reſtoration by Michael Paleologus, who drove the La.
zins out of the Bait. This great Revolution happen'd juſt
Eight Hundred Seventy Four Years after the Removal
of the Imperial Sear thither by Conſtantine the Great,
who Celebrated the Feaſt of the Building of the City,
rbe 11th of May, A. D.330. Seven Hundred and Twen.
y Eight Years after the Ruin of the Empire in the Weſt,
in the Reign of Auguſtulus. Four Hundred and Four
afror its Reſtitution by Charlemagne. One Hundred
and Seven from the firit Expedition of the Princes for
the
܂
Chap. VII. Alexius Murtzuphilus.
33.1
1200
the Recovery of the Holy Land. The Sixth of Otho A. D.
the Proud, Emperor of Germany. The Fifth of John,
King of England. The Twenty fifth of Philip II. Şir-
nam'd Auguſtus, King of France. And the Sixth of
the Pontificare of Innocent III.
1
CH A P. VII. .
From the Expulſion of the Greek Em-
perors out of Conſtantinople by the.
Weſtern Chriſtians, to the Taking
of the City by Michael Palæo-
logus, and the Expulſion of the
French.
Containing the Space of Fifty Seven Yearse
Theod. Laſc. Nice. Bald. Conſt
.
THE Byzantine Hiſtorians continue ſtill to call their
broken Empire by the Name of Roman, and them.
ſelves Romans, tho they are not only driv'n out of
Thrace and Macedonia, but are reduc'd to a few weak
Provinces in Aſia; and thoſe under the Dominions of
(Wo Greek Princes, whoſe Diviſions expos’d them to the
Inſults of the Latins and Turks ; and whoſe Powers
united under one vigorous Prince, might have extended
the limits of the Territories as far as the Euphrites on
one Hand, and the Nile on the other ; for they were
Maſters of a vaſt Tract of Ground, of many populous
Cities, commodious Havens, and of Wealch proporti
enable to the extent of their Territories; but their be
ing
332
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VỊ
A.D. ing divided Weaken'd them, and their mutual Jealouſies
1204. binder'd their uniting againſt the common Enemy. These
dorus Lafcaris, who as we have hinted before, had been
choſen Emperor by the Clergy of the Metropolitan
Church of the Empire, eſcap'd to Aſia, and ſeizing thie
Provinces of Bithynia, Phrygia, Myſia, Fonia and Lydia,
ityi'd himſelf Emperor of the Romans, and made Nice,
the Capital Ciry of Bithynia, his Imperial Seat. Alexi.
215 Coninenus, Son of Manuel Comnenus, the Tyrant An-
dronicus's eldeſt Son, ſeiz'd the City of Trapezond, of
which he was Governour, with the Province annex'd to
it. And David, his younger Brother, who fled from
Conftantinople, made himſelf Maſter of Heracléa, the
Capital of Pontus, of all that Province, Galatia and
Cappadocia. Alexius ftild himſelf Prince of Trapezond,
and his, and his Brother's Provinces being united, were
by their Succeſſors erected into an Empire, where the
Family of the Comneni Reign'd in as much Splendor as
the Houſe of Palæologus did afterwards at Conſtantino
.
ple, till David the laſt Emperor was taken Priſoner by
Mahomet the Great, Nine Years after he took the Impe.
rial City in Europe.
Baldwin could not hinder the Proceedings of the
Greek Princes in Afia, hiinſelf being Jealous of Boniface,
Marquiſs of Montferrat, who had all Theſſaly, and the
Ciry of Theſſalonica aſfign'd him ; as the Venetians had
the Iſles of the Archipelago, and part of the Morea. Bo-
niface had alſo the Iſland of Crete or Candia, but that
Thei'rovin.
was given him by the younger Alexius, and he ſold is
ses in E14-
to the Venetians. The other Princes had Shares allor-
red them according to the proportion of their Adven-
the Prinies rures ; and the care of defending their new Sovereign-
of the Cru-ties, hinder'd the Princes paſſing over into Aſia, sill Laf-
jede, caris had lo Strengthned himſelf there, that they could
not reduce him.
As ſoon as Baldwin had ſettled his Affairs at Conſtan-
sinople, he made a Progreſs through Thrace to receive
the Submiſſions of the Greeks. He put ſtrong Garri-
ſons into the Ciries of Adrianople, Didymotichum and
Phillipopolis. Boniface accompany'd him in his Journey
till they came ro Myfonopolis, where pretending to have
been inform'd that Baldwin deligo'd to keep Theſſaloni-
sa, he ezclaimd againſt him as more Palle and Perlidi.
QUS
rope divi-
de arrong
Chap. VI. Theod. Lafc. Nice. Bald. Conſt.
333
ous than the Greeks themſelves, and parting from him, A. D.
he went to Didymotichum, Seiz'd it, Fortify'd it, and 12011
Deſtroy'd ſeveral Cities in Thrace, inviting the Romans
to join with him. For their Encouragement, he Pro.
claim'd Manuel Angelus, the ſecond Son of Iſaac, the
younger
Alexius's Brother, Emperor ; by which means
he drew a great Number of Greeks into his Party, and
was receivd into Theſalonica with Acclamations of Joya
But tbe diſſembling It alian, when he had ſubdu'd the
Places aſſign'd him in the Partition of the Empire, and
ſecur'd the Sovereignty of many more, which he had
taken from his Companions in the Cruſade, deſpis’d the
Friendſhip of the Romans, refus’d to entertain thein in
his Troops, and accommodated his Differences with
Baldwin, to whom he reſtor's Didymotichum, and the
Cities he had taken in Thrace.
Alexius the Elder, by the Affiſtance of Sgurus, a Ci-
rizen of Napoli de Romania, who had by Robbery and Alexius
Violence, acquir'd: ſuch Riches and Strength, that he
the Elders
feiz'd ſeveral Cities of Greece, erected them into a ſubdues
Principality, and maintain’d himſelf in the Sovereignty come Ci-
of them; made himſelf Maſter of Come Cities on the
Frontiers of the Empire; in one of which he diſcover'd Seizes
Murtzupbilus and his own Daughter Eudoxia. The Ulur-Murtzu.
ſurper's Eyes he order'd to be pluck'd out, and Marry'd philus and
his Daughter to Sgurus. Murtzuphilus wandring up puts our bis
and down in the Dark, fell into the Hands of the French, Eyes.
who carry'd him to Conſtantinople, where he was Ac-
cus'd before Baldwin, for Strangling the Emperor Alexi-
us, his lawful Sovereign. Murtzuphilus ſaid in his own
Defence, That'twas not be who Kill'd him, but a Tray-
tor, whom he had Puniſh'd for it as he deſerv'd. Bald.
Martzua.
win could not be convinc'd by his Reaſons, that he ought philus
not to be put to a cruel Death for his Treaſon and Mur-
ſo he was Condemnd to be thrown Headlong from a Tort-
from a high Tower. Which Sentence was Executed
er by the
upon him accordingly.
Latins,
The Romans who had offer'd their Service to Boni.
face, being flighted by hiin, made the ſame tender to
Baldwin, and met with the ſame Uſage; upon which
they rerir'd to John, King of Bulgaria, of whom men-
rion has been made in the courſe of this Hiſtory. This
Prince Entertain'd them and all the Roman Fugitives,
very
thrombin
der
;
"
334
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
--
A.D. very Civilly ; bowever he was afraid of provoking the
1204. French, and perſuaded them to re:urn into their own
Country, and incommode the Franks as much as they
could, till the Circumſtances of his Affait's would per-
mit him to affiſt them openly. Theſe Troops being
join'd by ſome Bulgarians, made themſelves Maſters of
ſeveral Cities in Thrace, put the Garriſons of Adriano
ple and Didymotichum, whom they ſurpriz'd, to the
Sword ; and humbled the growing Pride of the French
Princes in Thrace, Macedonia, Greece, and the Morea:
John having call'd in the Scythians to his Affiltance,
and hearing of the Succeſs of the Romans, march'd to-
The King ward Thrace to ſuccour the Greeks, or rather to add it
of Bulga-
to his own Dominions. Baldwyn to be beforehand withi
via makes
War on the
him, fent an Army againſt the Towns that had Revolt-
Franks.
ed. The French recover d Byzid, Chiorli, and Arcadio-
polis ; where they Murder'd Man, Woman and Child,
and left theit, Bodies urbury'd. John approaching near
them with a vaſt Number of Scythians and Bulgarians,
they durit not advance to Adrianople ; ſo they content-
ed themſelves with what chey had done, and retir'd;
abandoning the Country to the Fury of the Barbarié
ans.
1205
)
Early in the following Spring, the Emperor Baldmyri,
accompany'd by Lewis, Count de Blois,and Henry Dandalo,
Doge of Venice, march'd with all his Forces to Beſiege
Adriannple; the King of Bulgaria receiving Informati-
on of their Deſign, was ready to oppoſe them ; and with
a Body of Forces ſuperior in number to the French and
Italians, he approach'd near their Camp. When he came
at a little diſtance from thein, he order'd a Party of
Scythians to charge their Forragers. The French reo
ceiv d them with their uſual Vehemence, and the Scy-
thians retir’d, fighting as they fled. Fohn perceiving
the cranks were mot to be dreaded at the Onſer, and
knowing the Advantage they had by it over his Troops,
erolv'd to make uſe of his Stratagems. He
He hid him
feif as much as he could from them, and by detach'd
Parties, hatraft the Enerny with continual Action, the
French and Italians expecting every time they were ató
tackt, that the whole Army of Scythians and Bulgari.
ans was coming down upon them. When they were
convinc'd that 'twas only Parties of the Enemy that fell
:
On
Chap. VII. Thecd. Laſc. Nice. Bald. Conſt. 335
on them, they purſu'd them with more Eagerneſs and A. D.
Diſorder. Fohn obſerving that they were grown more 1205:
Bold and Negligent in their Purſuit of the Scythians,
who always fled from them at the firſt Charge, and be-
ing the nimbleft Horſemen in the World, always eſcap'd
them ; thought 'twas time for him to put his intended
Artifice in execution, which tho it has been as often
made uſe of as the Barbarians gain'd Victories, yer iz
had now an Effect exceeding his Expectation. He or-
der'd a great Body of Scythian Horſe to charge the
French, and then to fly faiter and farther from them than
uſual, ro draw them into an Ambuſcade, which he laid
to ſurround them. The Barbarians fled as foon as the
French advanc'd cowards them, and the latter Gallop'd
after them as faſt as their Horſes could carry them; by
which means they fell into the Snare which was prepard
for them, when their Horſes were ſo weary they were
not fit for Service, and being encompaſs'd on all fides
by the Enemy, they were Slaughter'd like Sheep fur-
rounded by Wolves. The Bulgarians having both the
adrantage of Numbers and of the Ground, the French
and Italians threw themſelves off their Horſes to make
He TONIS
their Eſcape in Woods and Thickets, but there was no
Paſſage for them. The Flower of the Italian and French their, and
tikes Balato
Cavalry was Cut off and their beſt Captains either
win Priſon-
Killd or Taken. Lewis, Count de Blois, dy'd on the er,
ſpot. The Emperor Baldmyn was taken and ſent to Ter-
nova, the Capital City of Bulgaria, and thrown into a
Dungeon. Dandalo ſeeing all the Horſe and part of
the Foot who was engag'd in the Action, were roured
and flain ; order'd Torches to be lighted up every where
in the Camp, to deceive the Romans by making a thew
of an Army ſtill there, tho' ’rwas only the Rear which
he Commanded, and in the Night drew off to Rodoſtus;
where he met with Henry, Brother to Baldwyn, who
was lately come thither from Endrornitus in Aſia,
where he had been carrying on the War with Lafcaris.
Dandalo conferring with Henry on what they ſhould do
in this Extremnicy, they reſolv'd to halten to Conftantino-
ple. to prevent the Revolt of the Greeks, who were al.
ways diſpos'd to it, and waited only for an opportuni-
ry. This Defeat, happend on the 15th of April
, a
Vear and three Days after the taking of Conftantinople,
and .
336
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
A. Di and being at a Time when the Dominions of the
1205. Franks was ſo ill ſettled, they could hardly maintain
it when they were in Peace, 'twas expected that the
Romans would have improv'd their Overthrow, by
throwing off a Yoke more Infamous than the Gothick
Slavery, but they were a mean diſpirited People grown
worſe by their Misfortunes; and the Hour of their Li-
berty was not yet come.
The Condition of the Greeks after the late Rout of
the French, was altogether Deplorable. The Scythians
Plunder'd, Killd and Enſlav'd them on one Hand, and
the French Ruld them with an Iron-Rod on the other.
Fohn, King of Bulgaria, whom they call'd in to their
their Affiftance, inſtead of being their Deliverer, prov'd
the Deſtroyer of their Country. He took the City of
Serres, Demolith'd and Burnt it; and Sackt and De.
ftroy'd all the Towns that he Conquer'd; hating alike
Greeks and Latins, , and acting as an Enemy to Man-
kind.
Boniface no ſooner heard of the Fare of the Count of
Blois, and of the Emperor Baldwyn, than he fell uponi
his new Subjects, ſcraping what Riches he could heap
rogether, by all ſorts of Violence and Injuſtice; fear-
ing his own Reign would not be long. He had un-
dertaken ſeveral Expeditions in Greece and the Morea,
to enlarge bis Conqueſts ; in one of themi thé Tya
tant Alexius was taken Priſoner by him, with his wife
Euphrolyne ; and if we may believe Nicetas, fent in
Bonds to the German Emperor; which is not likely to
be true, for how could he then be ſurpriz'd by Theo-
dore Laſcaris, as he was, and ſhut up in a filthy Prie
fon, where he was allow'd only Bread and Water for
his Subliſtance. Laſcaris had Marry'd his Daughter,
The True- and yet the perfidious old Tyrant was treating with
chery of the the Turks for Succours, to take from him the Provinces
e!der A- be held in Aſia. In the Defence of which he had had
lexis to many Battles with the Infidels, and withi Pretenders of
tis Son in his own Nation, who thought they had as inuch Right
Land, Then
to the Sovereignty as he. However he Triumph d over
odore Lars
all of them, and kept his Dominion, tho' not without
caris,
frequent Changes of Fortuns.
1
i
6
پور
Chap. VII. Theod. Laſc. Nice. Bald. Conſt.' 337
John the Bulgarian being provok'd at Bonifaces's ſendo A. D.
ing Succours to the relief of Serres, attackt and took 1205.
Berca, and ſeveral other Cities belonging to the Mar-
quis, whom he ſhut up within the walls of Theſſalonica;
Henry, Baldwin's Brother march'd out againſt the Bul-
garians, accompany'd by Marino, Doge of Venice, who
fucceeded Dandalo in that Dignity. He took Apros,
and treated the Inhabitants in a moft barbarous man-The Burbe-
ner, though they had been forc'd to yield to the Bul.rity of tle
garians : Moſt of them were maffacred, the reſt he French.
ty'd together with Ropes, drove them before him
through the Towns he came to, and when through
want of ſtrength they could go no farther, he orderd
their Throars to be cut, thinking Hunger and Fatigue
would kill them with too much eaſe. A miſerable
Image given us by our Author of the Mercy of a French
Conqueror. Henry march'd to. Adrianople and belieg'd
that City, but was forc'd to raiſe the Siege and retire
in the Night. He had the ſame ill Succeſs before Didya
motichum, fo he return'd to Conſtantinople with much
loſs and no gain.
We mult now take a view of the Roman Affairs in
the Eaſt, where the Turks made frequent Incurlons into
the Empire, tempted to it by ſeveral Romans, who fled
to them, defigning by their help to deprive Laſcaris of
the Imperial Power.' They belieg'd Antioch, a City on
the Meander, and had reduc'd the place to the laſt Ex-
tremity. This City, tho' ſmall, was the Barrier of the
Empire, and Lafcaris reſolv'd ro attemp: the relief of it
coſt what it would. He could faiſe no more than two
Thouſand Men however be marchd at the head of
theſe againſt a numerous Army of Infidels, with whom
we are told Alexius carne in Perſon, and that Laſcaris
flew the Sultan of Iconium with his own Pand, defeated
his Army, and compell’d the Turks to conclude a Peace
wiih himn.
The Latins alſo after their defeat near Adrianop!c,
Courted his Friendthip; Plufindes and other places
took from David Comnenus Prince of Horacle?. When he
had almoſt reduc'd that Town, He rais'd the Siege to
: march after the Italians, who came to affiſt Divid, bus
they were too haſty for him, and get faie to Conſi anti-
nople. David made pocr Submiffions to the Latins for
Z
theis
338
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
.
1
A. D. their Alliance, and begg'd them to include him, if ever
3206. they came to a Treaty with Lafcaris. His Brother
Alexius contented himſelf with the City of Trapezond
and its dependancies, where he liv'd a riotous wanton
Life, and had been forc'd to ſubmit to the Greek Em.
peror Theodorus, had not David been more follicitous
for his Defence than himſelf was.
In Thrace the Latins recover'd Adrianople, Didymo-
tichum, and other Towns; and Fobn hearing they ex-
pected a great Reinforcement from Italy, return'd into
Bulgaria very well ſatisfy'd with the Booty he got.
When he was gone the Franks ſeiz'd the reſt of the
Towns that he had ſubdu'd, repair'd the Fortifications,
and put Atrong Garriſons into the Frontier Placeś.
When they came back to Conftantinople, they declar'd
Henry, Baldwins Brother, Emperor of the Eaſt; yet they
Henry, wouid not Crown him till they had certain Intelligence
Baldwii's
Broiler
of his Brother's Death, whom John kept a whole Year
chuin Em-in Priſon in Bulgaria, to revenge his treating of him be-
peror.
fore his Defeat like his Vaflal, and not allowing him
to addreis to him in his Treaties, as one Sovereign does
to another, which the Greek Emperors conſented to.
Aſpiecus, one of the Priſoners, whom John took at the
Battle of Adrianople, having procur'd his Liberty, and
joining again with the French, the King of Bulgaria was
lo enrag d, that he order'd Baldwin to be taken out of
Prilon, his Hands and Feet to be cut off, and his Body
Baldivin
to be thrown on a Rock, where he liv'd three Days in
Jutto il
eruicideath, exce{live miſery, and then expiring, his Carcaſs was
lett a Prey to the Birds of the Air, and the Beaſts of
the Field The Bulgarian us'd ſeveral other Priſoners of
Quality as barbarouſly, and ſome Romans who had ſur-
render'd themſelves to him voluntarily, to avoid the
Tyranny of the French, were tortur'd to Death by his
Command.
!
1
";
Thecd.
1
Chap. VII. Theod. Laſc. Nice. Hen. Conſt.
339
Theod. Laſc
. Nice. Hea. Confi.
A. D.
HEnry the new French Emperor to take away from
1206.
the Conſtantinopolitans all hopes of recovering their
ancient"Glory, demoliſh'd the Fortifications of the City,
the moſt famous Works in the World, and laid it open
like a Village. He alſo order'd the Starues which had
been erected in Honour of the Greek Hero's, who had
obraind any advantages over the Latins, to be pull'd
down. And being inform'd by his Spies, that John
King of Bulgaria held a Correſpondence with the Grecks
in Adrianople and, Didymotichum , he reſolv’d to cha-
ſtize the Citizens, and to revenge himſelf on the Bui-
garian for the Trouble he gave him, and the Murther
of his Brother. He had not many Troops of his own
Nation, or Italians in Thrace ; however with the few
that he had he march'd againſt the vait Multitede of
the Bulgarians, being neither afraid of their Numbers,
nor diſhearten'd by his own Loffes. The Bulgarians
hearing he was arriv'd at Adrianople, retreated, and
Henry purſu'd them as far as Beroe; from thence he
march'd by Agatoplis to Anchialus, and having goc to-
gether a good Boory, and a great number of Priſoners,
he return'd to Conſtantinople in a ſort of Triumph. In
which Expedition little Blood was loſt on one lide or
the other; the Bulgarians keeping cut of the way of the
Franks as much as poſſible.
In the following Year Teod. Laſcaris and Henry fird. 1207.
ing they could not arrain their ends over one another
by Arms, concluded a two Years Truce; which was ob. Laſc. 494
ſerv'd religiouſly by both Princes., Henry was diſposd Hen. cena
io this Peace, that he might be at leiſure to clear his clude i
Empire of thoſe that encroacht upon his Authority in Pruce.
Europe, which ſeveral Princes as well Latins as Greeks
had done; and Laſcaris found his Power was not 10
well ſettled in the Eaſt, but that he wanted cime ro lc.
cure himſelf by Alliances, and b; repairing the Forri-
fications of his Places, which lay expos'd coite Inſults
of the Infidels or the Greeks, that had ſubmitred to the
Comneni, and form'd the Principality of Trapezund. The
{acquils
Z a
I
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
340
7
A. D. Marquiſs of Monferrat continu'd his Domination in
3207. Thesſaly, and had an enterview with Henry to accomo.
date ſome Differences that aroſe between them, which
they ended very aimcably, and Boniface join'd with him
in a War with the Bulgarians ; in which, tho' the Mar-
quiſs loſt his Life, yet Henry and the French came off
with Succeſs. Boniface's Son ſucceeded him in the Prin.
cipality of Theſſaly, under the Guardianſhip of his Mo.
ther, Mary of Hungary, But the Greeks under the Com.
mand of Michael Angelus of the Imperial Family of the
Angeli, took ſeveral Towns from the Latins in thoſe
Michael
Parts, and Theodorus Brother of Michael, ſeizing Ætolia
Angelus
and Epirus, form'd a Government there, which main-
geizes Æ- taind it ſelf a long time after the Reſtoration of the
tolia and Greck Empire at Conftantinople. Theodore enlarg'd his
Epirus., Dominions, and became a match for all the Latin Prin-
ces in the Eaſt after the Death of Henry.
1208. Fohn King of Bulgaria dying in the Year enſuing, was
ſucceeded by his Son Boriſlaus, who hoping to over-rún
Thrace with as much expedition as bis Father had done,
when he attack'd it in the Reign of Baldwin, invaded
the Empire with a miglity Army, and beſieg’d Philips
popolis. Henry march'd againſt him with all bis Forces,
engag'd and defeated hin; after which he enter'd his
Territories, made himſelf Maſter of ſeveral Cities, and
a good part of his Country. This Overthrow kept the
Bulgarians in awe during the Reign of this Emperor,
who was the moſt Fortunate of all the French Princes
that ſat on the Throne of the Greek Empire ; and the
Happineſs of his Government was owing as much to
the Moderation of his Councels as the Succefs of his
Arms.
We have ofien obſerv'd that the Greeks abhorr'd the
The Pope Religion of the Latins, eſpecially their blind Obedience
preionds to to the Biſhop of Rome ; and we have thewn in the
the Supre- Third Volume of our Roman Hiſtory, as well as in
mary of the chis, bow ready the Apoftolical Vicar has been on all
Greek
occaſions, to extend the limits of his Spiritual Tyran-
Church
riy. None of the Princes in the Weſt, who all own'd
his Supremacy, made any Conqueft3, bert he had the
greatet fare of the Advantages and as ſoon as he
heard of the reducing of any Cicy or Country, his Mi:
mille came immediately thither to receive the Submil
Lions
V
Chap.VII. Theod. Laſc. Nice. Hen. Conſt.
341
to him ;
lions of the Inhabitants, and collect the Taxes he im. A. De
pos'd upon them. From all which we could not doubt 12089
but thar the Conqueſt of the Greek Empire was the
moſt pleaſing advantage to him, that ever the Weſtern
Chriſtians obtain'd over the Eaſtern. He had it now in
his power to make the Patriarch of Conſtantinople truckle
he could advance one of bis own Creatures,
and extort what Terms he pleas'd from him, ler chern
be never ſo Naviſh and unreaſonable. This was a Pri.
vilege the more agreeable to his Preſumption, becauſe
the Patriarch of the Greek Church diſputed with the
Biſhop of the Latins, the Supremacy, which the Pope
pretended to, and had more reaſon to do it than the The Vanity
Biſhop of Rome. For whither the Story of St. Peters of his Pre-
founding thar See is a Fable or not, 'tis certain the firſt tences,
Council which declar'd any particular Biſhop Oecume.
nically, was that of Chalceden, who beſtow'd the title of
Univerſal on the Patriarch of Conſtantinople, and gave
him Precedence before the Biſhop of Rome, and all other
Biſhops whatſoever. Yet the Pope in all times ſtickled
for the Supremacy with as much hear as if the Salvati-
on.of all the Chriſtian Nations depended upon it, and
ofren Sacrific'd the Peace of the Church to his Pride.
He would now have einbroil'd the Emperor Hen"y and
bis Subjects, if that Prince had not been too Wiſe to be go.
vern'd by his Directions, and had not put a ftop to the
violent Proceedings of his Legate Pelagius, and Moroſini
2 Venetien, whom he had thruſt into the Chair of con-
ftantinople. For the Patriarch that reſided ar Nice, and Moroſini
was choſen by the Greeks, was the true Head of the 2 Veneti,
Greek Church, and the Latin Biſhop impos’d on the Con-an n.2.de
ftantinopolitans by the Pope no better than an Uſurper, Patriarch
who made a formal Submiſſion in the Name ot the byčle Pope,
Greek Church to the Bilbop of Rome, and that was
callid by the Latins a Re-Union, cho' the Greeks in ge-
peral diſown'd the Proceedings of their pretended Pa-
trior, and the Clergy oppos'd it with vehemence. On
all occlions they few'd their dilike of his compliance
with the Pope's Injunctions, and looke on the Novele
A Moch
ties introduc'd by the Latin Prelate, both in their Faith,
R-112012
Ceremonies and Diſcipline as Hererical, which they took
The Cicele
hold of all opportunities to declare. Their oppoſition and Watie
to the Pope's Pleaſure, lo encagd that Prelec Horos Church,
blivi:
1
342
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VI.
1
A. D. rius III that he would not hear of any Comprehenſion, or
1213. Treaty of Agreement. He requir'd an entire Subjectie
on, and all thoſe that did not conform to it were thrown
into Priſon by his Legare Pelagius. The Monks in
Conſtantinople had no Body to protect them, their Pa.
triarch being the Pope's Creature; ſo they reſolv'd bold.
ly to carry their Remonftrance to the Throne, and de
fire to have their Grievances redrelt by the Emperor.
They told him, They willingly ſubimtted to him in
Temporal things, and would obey him chearfully, but in
tbiroa piritual they had a Sovereign Pontiff of their own,
and therefore they could not ſubmit themſelves to the Bi-
moop of Rome. Henry found they were ſo poſitive in
their Reſolutions not to own the Pope's Supremacy, that he
could not bring them to it without making the whole
Clergy his Eneinies, which he was not willing to do,
tho' he was very deſirous to have the Pope acknow.
ledz'd to be the Head of the Greek Church : He hared
Oppreffion, and could not be prevail'd with by all the
Legare's Prayers or Threats to perſecute his Subjects,
who be thought it his Duty to protect, becauſe they
would not own his Maſter's uſurpe Authority. 'Tis
rrue, he did not think it to be Uſurpt, however he muſt
run the risk of a general Revolt to impoſe it on the
Greeks, and that was too much for him to venture out
of Complaiſance to the Apoftolick Vicar. On the Death
of Morosini, Honorius made Jervniſe a Tuſcan, Patriarch
of Conſtantinople, and he was confirm's Biſhop of that
Soe by the Council of Lateran , the Weſtern Church
having afi m'd the Government of the Eaſtern, tho' the
was younger, and more corrupt in her Principles The
Pope intermedling with the Greek Worſhip and Hierar-
chy, always kepe. up the Diviſion's between the Latina
and Greeks in Thrace, and thoſe Diviſions weakend the
Fresh Emperor's Intereſt, and prepar'd a way for their
future Expulſion. The Biſhops of Rome never conſider
whether their Proceedings are for the prince or People's
advantage: Their own Power is what they have in
view, and if they cannot maintain that, they are not
follicirous whar becomes of Temporal Princes.
1214. In the following Year the Truce between Henry and
Theodore Lafcaris was chang'd to a Peace, to which the
Greek Emperor was rather conftraind than perſwaded,
Henry
:
>
.
!
Chap. VI. Theod. Laſc. Nice. Hen. Conſt. 343
Henry tbreatning to invade his Empire, which he was A. D,
willing to preſerve, ir being ſo little thar be could ill 12140
ſpare any of it, tho' 'twas full of rich populous Towns,
and brought him a Revenue that ſupported his Digni-
ty with as much Credit as his Predeceſſors had liv'd in at
Conſtantinople, fince the Eaſtern Empire was over-run
by the Saracens To ſtrengthen himielf by Foreign Al-
liances he gave his Daughter Ann in Marriage to the
King of Hungary, and Irene his eldeit Daughter, who
had been formerly marry'd to Andronicus Paleologus,
and was now a Widow, he marry'd ro John Ducas, John Du-
firnam'd Batatzes or Vatatzes, a Man of the Illuſtrious cas mirrys
Houſe of Ducas, Eminent for his Virtue and Valour, Theodore
whom he deſign'd for his Succeffor, notwithſtanding he Laſcaris's
had a Son by his ſecond Wife, an Armenian Lady; Daughter,
but the Prince was in his Infancy, and for that reaſon
thought unable to govern the Empire in ſuch perilous
Times.
Henry liv'd about two Years after the Peace was con-
cluded between him and Laſcaris, during which time
he reign'd in Peace, which the French Emperor's hard-
iy ever taſted the ſweets of, but in this interval; and
when he expected a Series of happy Years it pleas'd
God who had not ordain'd the Empire of the Eaſt to
remain long in the poſſeſſion of the French, to take hiin
out of this world, after he had reign'd ten Years and Henry
ten Monchs with great Honour and Fortune. Peter, dyes.
Count of Auxerre, who had marry'd his Siſter Yoland, Peter his
and had given many proofs of his Courage and Con-Brorker-in,
duct, was choſen Emperor in his ſtead. Which when lim fitc-
he heard he left France, and taking Rome in his way to coeds bim.
Conſtantinople, was there Crown'd by Pope Honorius
III. on the gth of April, A. D 1217. and nine Days 1217,
after he departed for the Eaſt, taking with him John
Colonna Cardinal, to reſide as the Pope's Legate in the
Imperial City. He ſent his wife and Ch ldren bcforę
him by Sea, himſelf making ſome ſtay at Venice, 10
conclude a Treaty with the Republick ; By which he
engag‘d himſelf to make War on Theodorus Angeluş
Comnenùs Prince of Epire, who encroach'd on the Vene
tian Territories in the Morea. Accordingly he under
took the Siege of Dyrrachiurn, which was then Garri-
fon'd by Theodorus ; and his Soldiers made fo vigorose
a De
1
men
I 4
1
>
1
344
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
>
A.D. a Defence, that Peter was oblig'd to raiſe the Siege;
1217. and having loft moſt of his Men to make Peace with
the Prince of Epire, who promis'd to give him Paſsw
Ports through his Dominions to Conſtantinople; but
when he was advanc'd a little forward on his way, he
orderd a Party of Soldiers to ſet upon him. The Epirots
took him and his Followers, and in the following Year
Tiken by
Theodore put him to Death. The Pope and all the Weſtern
Prince of
Chriſtians were very much offended with Theodorus for
E pire, and his Treachery and Inhumanity to the Emperor Peter ;
till d. but Honorius durſt not thew his Reſentment, for fear
12:8. of provoking him to deal as barbarouſly by Cardinal
Colonna, who was in his Cuſtody. To procure the li-
berty of his Legate, he promis'd the Prince of Epire his
Protection, and to divert the Storm that threaten'd him
from the Eaſt and Weit. The Greek Authors, who are
as partial to their own Princes as the Latins
juſtifie the Death of Peter, and tell us he was kill'd fair:
ly in Bartle; but in this they differ among themſelves.
And tbe Latins report being confirm'd by one of their
George A-own Writers, we have more reaſon to give Credit to it
CIOD. than to that of an Eneiny.
The Death of Peter was a terrible blow to the Latins
in Conſtantinople, and they had ſo much ado to maintain
their Einpire there, that few Princes who had Domi.
nions eiſewhere, would leave them to accept of the Dig-
nity offer'd them to Reign at Conſtantinople, with the
ſplendid title of Roman Emperor. Philip Earl of Namure,
Percr's eldest son, did not think fit to leave his Earl-
dom for it ; he refus'd the Imperial Crown, when 'twas
ofrer'd him: So it became the Portion of his younger
His ſecond Brorlier Robert of Courtenay, on whom the Latins con-
So-Robert ferr'd the title of Roman Emperor, which Pompous
of Couro Sile was affum'd by four Princes, the German Empe-
ney fuc- rok, the Latin Emperor of the Eaſt, the Greek Em-
ટds in
acros 20 Nice, and ſome time after by the Prince of
Tatizond who took it upon him with as much reaſon as
any ofiliern. Robert was Crown'd at Confiantinople by Main
Dhup the Parriarch, in tbe Year 1221. And after his ac-
cers in the Throne a Treaty of Marriage was propos d
Cervech bin and Eudoxia, Daaghter of Theodorë
14/art's, which Manuel the Patriarch of the Greeks
thing at Nice, oppoging with all his Intereſt and Au-
thority
*Y:
:
Chap. VII. Theod. Lafc. Nice. Rob. Conſt.
345
thority, it hinder'd its taking effect. In the firſt. A. D.
Year of Robert's Reign Laſcaris dy'd in the fortieth_1221.
Year of his Age, having far on the Throne at Nice ſeven. Theodore
Laſcaris
ieen Years. He had defended the Empire he ſeiz'd,
dyes.
part
of the ſmall remains of the Roman Dominions in
Aſia, with great Bravery, and govern'd it with great
Wiſdom. Neither the French nor the Turks got any
Ground of him; and had his Moral Virtues been as
ihining as his Military, he ought juftly to have been
e teem'd one of the greateſt Princes of his Nation ſince
the declenſion of the Empire.
But he was Cholerick and Debauch’d, waſting moſt His Chto
part of the Revenues, which his ſmall Territoriesracter.
brought him in, on his Miſtreſſes. He lov'd Revelling
and Magnificence, and was liberal to Profufion, wbich
Extravagancies kept him poor, and his Poverty oblig'd
him to load his Subjects with Taxes; however per-
ceiving he was warchful for their Preſervation, they
paid what was laid upon them with chearfulnels, and
ſometimes gave him Benevolences. So willing are
People to aſſiſt thoſe Princes that are careful of their
Defence, tho' they otherwiſe behave themſelves with too
much exceſs and Licenſe which they muſt maintain at
their Expence. And had the Example of this Prince been
follow'd by a Monarch lately reigning in Europe ; had
he been as ſollicitous to defend bis Subjects againſt
Foreigners as he was eager in ſatisfying his Inclination
to pleaſure, .His Character, like Lafcaris, might have
deſerv'd a place among the good Princes.
Tho' Theodorus had a Son and two Brothers to leave
his Empire to, yet he had ſuch a good opinion of Fobn
Ducas's Merir, that he left him. his Succeffor, and lo
Fatherly a Love for his people, that he thought no Re.
lacions so near to him as his Subjects, for whoſe Wel-
fare he was more concern'd than for the Grandeur of his
Family. Ducas was a Man of Spirit, flow in Coun-
Ducas ſuc ~-
cil, but quick and indefatigable in Execurion. From a
ceeds biri
Prince of theſe Qualities the Greeks began to conceive
hopes, that as Lafcaris had founded a new Empire our
of the remains of the old one, ſo Ducas would out of
the new find means to recover what had been loft of the
old. How he anſwer'd that expectation we fall fee
in the Hiſtory of his Reign, which commenc'd in the
terth
346
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII,
A. D. tenth Year of Frederick II. Emperor of Germany, the
1221. fifth of Henry the III. King of England, the firſt of Ro-
bert the Latin Emperor är Conſtantinople, the 41 of
Philip the II King of France, the ruth of the Pontifi-
cate of Pope Honorius thee III. A. D. 1221.
1
John Ducas Nice. Robert. Conſt.
Anuel the Greek Patriarch baving put the Crown
on the Head of John Ducas, that Prince apply'd
himſelf with "extraordinary diligence to the Care of
the publick Affairs. He could not endure the Neigh-
bourhood of the Latins, nor be content with preſerving
what his Father-in-law left bim. He reſolv'd to croſs
the Helleſpont, and to that end rais'd a powerful Army,
and fitted our a vatt Navy to make a vigorous Effort
to recover what belong'd to the Greek Empire in Europe.
He augmented his Legions, and knowing he could not
pretend to make War upon the Latins in Thrace and
Greece without a ſtrong Fleet, he built a great num-
ber of Galleys in the Ports of Aſia Minor. His Navy
being equip'd, he ſcour'd the Seas, and in one Summer
made himſelf Maſter of moſt of the INands in the Ægean
Sea, as Lesbos, Chios, Samos, Icaria, Coos, Rbodes ,
and many others. And not contented with enlarging
his Dominions with the Sovereigny of thoſe Iands,
he paſt the Streights in the following Spring, invad-
Ducas
ed Cherſoneſus, ravag'd the,, Country, and carry'd the
1223, Terror of his Arms to the Walls of Conſtantinople, none
invidestle daring to oppoſe him. He alſo reduc'd many Cities on
Latin Em the Coaſts of Thrace, as Calliopolis , Sefius Cardia,
pire.
and ſeveral others, ſome by Force, and ſome by Com-
poſition, the, Greeks every where readily yielding
themſelves, if they had any opportunity to do it.
Though he had already given the Greeks hopes of
Making off the Latin Yoke, yet there were not wan-
ting ſome Perſons in his Empire, who envying his Glo-
ry, endeavour d to put a ſtop to his Succeſſes, by join-
ing with his Enemies. The chief of theſe were Alexius
and Ifaac Lafcaris the lace Emperor Theodore's Bros
chers, who thinking the Imperial Crown Mould have
deſcended
.
Chap. VII. John Ducas Nice. Robert Conſt. 347
deſcended to one of them, on the Death of their Bro-
A. D.
ther, fled to Conſtantinople, and defir'd aid of Robert the 1223
Latin Emperor to recover what they calld their Right.
That Prince was glad of this occaſion, to revenge the
Loſſes he had receiv'd by John Ducas's invading his
Territories. He rais’d an Army, and gave the Com-
mand of it to the Greek Princes, whom Ducas fought
and defeated at a place call'd Poemanmem , took them Defeats
both Priſoners, and order'd their Eyes to be put out, the Latins.
Which Victory not only deliver'd him from two dan-
gerous Competitors, who call'd his Government an
Uſurpation, but humbled the Latins , and was ſuch
a blow to them, that their Power in Thrace declin'd
daily after it.
Aſan King of Bulgaria, of whom the Latins and
1224
Greeks were equally afraid, hearing of Ducas's Fame
courted his Alliance, and ſent Ambaſſadors to him to'
propoſe a Marriage between Helena bis Daughter and
Theodore the Greek Emperor's Son. Fohn was very well
pleas’d with the propoſal, being loath to have ſo great
a King as Afan was, his Enemy, having two ſuch Powers
as the Turks and Latins ready to fall upon him, both
in Aſia and Europe. The Match being agreed on, the
two Monarchs had an enterview in Cherſoneſus, where
Helena, Afan's Daughter, was marry'd with great Pomp
and Joy to Theodore, Fohn's Son ; neither the Prince.
nor the Princeſs was much above ten Years of Age,
yet they liv'd happily together when they were old
enough to conſummace the Marriage, and ſhe brought
him ſeveral Children.
Not long after the Greek Emperor confirm'd the League,
and prolong'd it between him and the Sultan of Iconi.
um, which was very advantageous to both Crowns; for
the Tartars having driv'n the Turks out of Perfia, began
10 preſs hard upon them in leſſer Aſia. And the Sultan
fearing if he ſhould at once be attack'd by the Greeks
and Tartars, he might loſe all bis Dominions, was
ſeady to comply with any Terms offer'd him by
Ducas, who probably would not have been willing
to have continu d the Peace, had he not been
afraid of loſing his Conqueſts in Europe, which
he knew the Latins would attack when they ſaw he
was employ'd in Aſia. Beſides, the Greek Emperor had .
rather
348
The Roman Hiſtory.. Chap. VII.
1
A. D. rather have the Turks for his Neighbours than the Victo.
1224. rious Tartars ; and the Sultan of Iconium's Territories
were a Barrier to his own. The Latins having receiv'd
They beg a ſeveral Defears from Ducas, ſu'd for a Peace alſo,
Peace of which they obrain'd, the Emperor finding it neceſſary
bine
to let his People have a breathing time. His Do-
minions had been haraft by Wars during the Reign of
his Predeceffor, and had ſcarce known what Peace was
ſince he came to the Crown ; but now they were at
reſt from their Warlike Toils, they began to flouriſh
and grow rich. They were deliver'd of the Fear and
Miſery of perpetual War, and fell all to the fruitful
The effe&ts Labours of Peace. The Emperor to thew his Subjects
of it in an Example of good Husbandry, caus'd as much Land
Alja. to be plough’d, and as many Vineyards to be planted
as would ſupply his Houſe with Corn and Wine, and
reſerve enough to relieve the Poor,' and to ſtore up in
his Granaries and Cellars. He orderd bis Relations
and Nobles to do the ſame, that they might not be
rempted to take from the poor Peaſants.. By which
means in a few Years every Barn was full of Corn, and
every Cellar of Wine. The Plains were cover'd with
Cattle, and the Hills with Sheep. The Fields were
loaden with Grain, and every Man's BackGde ſwarmd
with Poultry, even at a time when the Turkiſla Terri-
kories were ſore afdicted with Famine, and the Infidels
were forc'd to part with their Gold, Silver, Jewels,
and other their moſt valuable Treaſure to the Chriſtians
for Proviſions. Thus were the Farmers Houſes full of
the Turk's Wealth, and the Emperor's Coffers ſtor'd
with their Treaſure. We may glieis what prodigious
Profit the Greeks made of the Provifions, for that ſo
much Money was rais'd by the jale üi ogge only in a
ſhort time, as ſerved to buy an Imperiai Crown of
Gold for the Empreſs. 'Twas rich in Orient Pearls
and Diamonds, and the Emperor calld it Ouata, be.
caufe 'twas bought with Egg. money.
While the Greeks flouriſht under their goed Emperor
Fohn Ducas, the Turks were brought low by the Tar-
cars, and the Larins by Theodorus Angelus, Prince of
Epire, who took from them almoſt all Tirace and
Theſſaly, dçiving out Demetriis, the Son of Boniface,
Marquiſs of Montferrat
, and thuering up the Latin Ero
.
?
erom
)
Chap. VII. Johri Ducas Nice. Robert Conſt. 349
peror
withiń the Walls of Conſtantinople. Robert was A.D.
an unactive Prince, and the Empire of Latins ſeem'd of 1224.
no long ſtanding in the Eaſt. Theodore growing Great, Theodore
and having very much enlarg d his Dominions, affum'd Prince of
the Title of Emperor, and was Crown'd with an Im- Epire al
perial Diadem at Theſſalonica, by John Arch-Biſhop of Title of
Achris ; at which the Greek Patriarch and the Biſhop Emperor.
of Rome were offended. To appeaſe the latter, Theo-
dore wrote to him, thač he would endeavour to reunite
the Greek and the Latin Churches, and oblige the
Greeks to own his Supremacy; which however he ne-
ver intended to do; and as ſoon as he found himſelf
ſo well ſettled in his Authority, that he did nor fear the
Latins, he renounc'd the Submiffion he had made to
the Pope. Ducas did not leem to reſent Theodore's aſo
ſuming the Imperial Title, though 'twas an Encroach-
ment on his Dignity, who was ſole Emperor of the
Greeks 'in Europe.
However while he employ'd his
Arms againſt the Latins, he ſuffer'd him to go on with
out Controul, and his Succeffes lo puft him up, that
believing himſelf Invincible, he made War upon Folm,
Son of Afan, King of Bulgaria, with whom he bad
fately concluded a Treaty of Peace ; to the ſtrict Ob.
fervance of which he bad Solemly ſworn, and had con
firm'd it by a Marriage berween Manuel, his Brother,
and that King's Daughter. He invaded Bulgaria with
a great Army, confiting of both Greeks and Latins.
who were totally defeated by the Bulgarians, and him-
ſelf caken Priſoner. The King commanded his Eyes
to be put our, to punith him for his Perfidiouſneſs
but ſome Time after he made Peace with him, and
marry'd Irene, his Daughter.
A little before this Action, Robert, the Emperor of
the Latins, went to Rome, and was Crown'd by Grea
IX. While he was abſent in Italy, there happen'd
an Event at Conftantinople, equaliy Infolent and Sur-
prizing. Soon after his Father's Death the Emperor
Robert marry'd a Beautiful Young Lady, the Daughter
of a Rich and Noble Marron of Conſtantinople, who
had promis'd her in Marriage to a Burgundian Lord;
but when ſhe ſaw the Emperor had an Inclination to her,
the broke her Promiſe with the Burgundian, and gave her
in Marriage to Robert, to the extream Morrification
af
1
;
gory IX.
350
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII,
A. D. of his Rival, who being a Man of Quality and Merit
1224 and very much in Love with the New Empteſs, could
not bear to ſee her in the Arms of Robert, and his Den
ſpair made him Furious ; but he could not revenge
himſelf while the Emperor ſtay'd in the Imperial City.
When he was in Italy, he reſolv'd to make his Vena
geance as ſignal as his Wrongs, and hiring a Company
The Em- of Soldiers, he enter'd the Court with them by Night,
preſs of
where firſt meeting with the Fair Empreſs, he cut off her
Conſtan-
Noſe and her Ears, and threw her Ambicious Mother
tinople's
Noſe cut
into the Sea ; after which he fled witb his Ruffians our
off. of the City, and hid in the Woods and Mountains.
Robert was unſpeakably griev'd for the Diſgrace of the
Her Hur Empreſs, whom he tenderly lov'd, and in his Way
band the Home dy'd in Achais. To him ſucceeded Baldwin
Emperor the 2d, his Brother, being a Youth of about Twelve
Robert's
Years of Age. Robert reign'd Eight Years, and was a
Death.
Prince of mean Capacity and Courage. He gave th
His Bro-
ther,
Greoles a great Advantage over the Latins by his co-
wardice and Weakneſs, which would have ſhortend their
1229.
Baldwin], Dominion in Conſtantinople, had noc John de Bryenne,
fileceeds King of Ferufalem, who was choſen Guardian to the
bila Young Emperor Baldwin, by his Policy and Valour
put a Srop to the Progreſs of Ducas, the Greek Empe.
tor's Victories.
John Dicas, Nice.
Baldwin II.
Conſtantinople
.
The Fortune Before we enter on
the Reign of Baldwin the 2d, 'twill
of John
be neceſary to give ſome Account of the Fortune
de Bryen.
of John de Biyenne, who had the Chief Adminiſtration
King of of Affairs, and is indeed' Atil d Emperor by fume Hiſto-
eru alem rians. 'Twas the Cuſtom in thoſe Days for the Guara
Baldwin's dians of the Emperors to affume that Title, and Brya
Guardian. enne had no Pierenfons to it but tha: he was Baldroir's
Governor, and Protector of the Empire. He was the
Son of Erard the 2d, Count of Bryenne a Nobleman
of France, and was one of the French Gentlemen who
took the Croſs upon them in that Expedition in which
the
j
!
Chap.VII. John Ducas, Nice. Bald. II. Conſt. 357
He
the Latins made themſelves Maſters of Conſtantinople. A.D.
got ſuch a Reputation by his Bravery and Conduct 12290
ih rbat Croiſade, that the Barons of Jeruſalem, after
che Death of their King Almerick the 2d, lent Depu-
ries to him, who was then in France, to offer him that
Crown and the Princeſs Mary, Daughter to Iſabella,
Queen of Jeruſalem, in Marriage. She was Daughter
and Heireſs to Almerick the ift, and that Crown def-
cended to her, had it been worth going ſo far form
Philip Auguſtus, King of France, gave him 40000
Livres to defray the Charges of his Journey to Jeruſa-
lem, where he arriv'd in the Year 1210, Conſummata
ed his Marriage, and was Crown'd King. His Wife
dying Ten Years after he went to France to implore
the Afliftance of King Philip againſt the Saracens, who
had taken moſt of his Cities, and the greateſt Part
of his Country. In his Way to France he calla
at the Court of Caſtile, where he marry'd Berangeria,
Siſter to King Ferdinand, by whom he had the Princeſs
Mary, Wife to Baldwin the 2d, Emperor of Conftanti.
nople. He had a Daughter by his Firſt Wife, whom
Frederick the 2d, Emperor of Germany, marry'd, and
in her Right aſſum'd the Title of King of Jeruſalem.
To recover what had been taken from that Kingdom
by the Saracens, he undertook an Expedition to the
Holy Land, and forc'd the Sultan to make Peace with
him. Bryenne being oured of his Kingdom by his Son-
in-Law in Revenge, enter'd himſelf in the Service of
Pope Gregory, who was at War with the Emperor, and
made Bryenne Governor of Ravenna, which Cicy held
our againſt Frederick. He was ſent for out of Italy to
take on him the Charge of the Latin Emperor and
Empire in Conſtantinople; and though he was very Old
when he came there, he behav'd himſelf ſo well, that
for the firſt Three or Four Years of his Adminiftra.
tion the Latins began to thrive, and reconquer'd moſt
Part of Ihrace and Macedonia from the Greeks. He
roſe by his Valour and Virtue from the State of a pri-
vare Soldier to that of a King, and had the Honour to
have the 'Eaſtern and Weſtern Emperors at once to be
his Sons-in-Law. In his latter Years he grew covetous
and unfortunate : He had defeared Ducas and John,
King of Bulgaria, who were marcbing to befiege Coma
finntinople
1
352
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
!
A. D. ftantinople ; but thoſe Princes recruiting their Army
1229. with more Eaſe than Bryenne could reinforce his, the
Latins were forc'd to yield up ſeveral Cities to Ducas;
Baldwin and Bryenne contenting himſelf with the Defence of the
goes into Imperial City, fent Baldwin into the Weſt to follicite
the Weſt to the Powers of Italy, Germany, Britain and France for
follicit Succours, which he could not obtain, the Pope being
Succours,
at War svith the German Emperor, Henry the 3d ar Va.
riance with the Barons of England, and moſt of the
Weſtern Princes embroil'd in their own Affairs.
John Ducas was not only oblig'd to be on his Guard
againſt the Turks, Bulgarians, and Latins, but had a
dangerous Enemy in Comnenus, Emperor of Trapezond,
who watch'd all Opportunities to diſturb his Govern-
ment. Theſe Two Greek Emperors ſeldom came to
Acts of Hoftility, but they were always jealous of
each other, and he of Trapezond heartily hated him of
Nice. Comnenus would fain have marry'd his Daugh-
ter to Baldwin, and enter'd inte an Alliance with him
againſt the Greeks his Countrymen ; but the Latins had
no Opinion of the Sincerity of the Greeks, and were
afraid to truſt him ; for which Reaſon, only they re-
fus'd to enter into a Confederacy with him, and con-
cluded the Marriage between their young Emperor and
Folon de Bryenne's Daughter, as is before mention'd in
this Reign. Seven Years did the King of Ferufalem go-
vern the Latins in Conſtantinople, in Right of his Son-
3237, in-Law, and then he departed this Life in a good Old
Age, with whom the Domipation of the Latins in the
Imperial City would probably have had an End, if
there had not happen'd a Rupture between Ducas and
Fobn, King of Bulgaria, who found Means to get his
Sifter, whom he bad marry d to Ducas's Son, out of the
Hands of the Greeks; and joining with the Latins,
threaten’d to drive the Greek Emperor out of Europe,
ard even to carry the War into Aſia; which was pre-
vented by an unbapry Beginning in his Attempts on
Ducas's Territories, with whom defiring to be recon.-
cild, he ſent his Daughter to her husband, and renounc'd
his Friendthip with the Latins, to whom he had an A.
verſion.
We had Occaſion to ſpeak of Theodorus Angelus's
Misforcues in Bulgaria, and we muſt now take a View
of
i
Chap. VII. John Ducas Nice. Bald. II. Conſt. 353
of his Brother and his Affairs, who by Turns ſucceed. A.D.
ed him in the Government of his Territories. Manuel, 1237
his Brother, uſurpe it and the Title of Emperor, which
he enjoy'd till his Brother was ſet at Liberty by the
King of Bulgaria, who lent him a conſiderable Force
to recover bis Dominions; and Manuel finding he was
not ſtrong enough to diſpute it with his Brother's
Friends and the Bulgarians, fled to the Turks; after
which John, the Son of Theodore, took on him the Ti-
tle of Emperor, whom Ducas, who was now grown
Powerful in Europe, forbad to uſe the Imperial Scile,
or wear the Ornaments of an Emperor. Fohn, the King
of Bulgaria, dyirg aboạt this Time, his Son Coloman
ſucceeded him ; who being a Child, Ducas took hold
of that Opportnnity to oblige the Prince of Epirus to
content himſelf with the Title of Deſpot. Theodore,
the Father of John, abandon'd the Intereſt of his Son,
by the good Management of Ducas, and the Bulgarian
Miniſters, who were ihe Greek Emperor's Penſioners,
were eaſily prevail'd upon to get their Maſter to renew
the Alliance between the late King and him, and not to
interpoſe in the Diſpute between him and John, Prince of
Epire, whom he compelld to quit the Title and Orna-
ment of an Emperor ; which Fobr, the late King would
not have ſuffer'd, not ſo much on Account of the Alliance
between him and the Prince of Epire, as becauſe he
was not willing to have the Greek Emperor encreaſe his
Strength, and extend his Dominions in Europe. Color
man dying in a few Years, his Brother Michael fuc-
ceeded him in the Throne, with whom Ducas made
War, took ſeveral of his Cities, and became ſo formi-Duca;
dable on this Side the Helleſpont, . that the Empire of groms for
the Latins was very precarious, the Way being pre-midible in
par'd by him for their Expulſion with eaſe by his Europe.
Succeffors : He may indeed be ſaid to be the Second
Founder of the Greek Empire, which was reduc'd ro
ſo low a Condition by the Latins, that the deſpaird
of ever lifting up her Head again, till this Emperor by
his Succeſſes animated che Greeks with new Vigour,
and by his happy Influences he gather'd Sirengil, and
afferted her Dominions in the Eaſt with ſome faint
Reſemblance of her former Glory. In the lat er Parc
of his Reign the Emperor fully'd bis Bright Character
A8
by
354
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VII.
1
A. D. by his Familiarity with Marceſina, one of the Em-
I 237. preſs's Maids of Honour : He had bury'd Irene, his
Firſt Wife, and marry'd Anne, Daughter to the Germ
man Emperor, and Siſter to Manfred, King of Sicily.
Marceſina was very Beautiful, and of fo Charming a
Behaviour, that ſhe gain'd the Hearrs of the moſt In-
fenfible : The Emperor, of all her Lovers, was the
moſt Affiduous and the molt Fortunate, and he delight.
ed ſo much in her Converſation, that he neglected his
Empreſs, though the was Young, and wanted not
Charms to pleaſe him, had his Eyes beheld them with
the ſame Pleaſure that they lookt on Marceſina. His
He falls in
Miſtreſs acquir'd ſuch an Aſcendant over him, that he
Love with
allow'd her to appear with as much Pomp and State as
Marceúna
his Wife did, and ſhe had as much Reſpect paid her
by all thoſe that wanted Acceſs to the Emperor. There
was at that Time in Nice a Nobleman, Famous for his
Piery and Learning, whoſe Name was Nicephorus, fir-
nam’d Blemmidas ; he had built a Fine Monaſtery in
the Suburbs, ſertled large Revenues upon it, fill d ir
with Monks, and retir'd thither himſelf, to live with
them in Penitence and Solitude : He was afterwards
choſen Patriarch of Conſtantinople ; but though that
Dignity was next to the Sovereign Authority, he would
not leave his Rerirement for it. The Fame of his Viro
tue and Manner of Living drew Cronds of people to
ſee him, and to viſit the Beautiful Church he had built
for his and his Friars Devotions. Marcelina had the
Curioſity to go thither, and that the might do it with
the greater Shew, ſhe was attended by moſt of the
Chief Courtiers, and ſome of the Emperor's Life-
Guards. When the approacht near the Church Door,
'twas fhut againſt her by Biemmidas's Command, who
had declar'd that he would not have the Lord's-Houſe
prophan'd by the Preſence of ſo wicked a Woman.
She is af
She was terribly enrag'd at this Affront, and try'd all
fronted
her Charms and all her Intereſt to perſuade the Empe.
by Blen- for to revenge hier on Blemuridas ; telling him 'twas a
midas. Diſgrace to him as well as to her. Her Favourites al-
ſo, who had the Emperor's Ear, endeavour'd to ftir
him up againſt that good Man. Bur. Ducas, inſtead
of bearkning to their Advice, was ſtruck with Remorſe
of Concience, and said to them, the Tears all the
while
!
Chap. VII. John Ducas Nice. Bald.II. Conſt. 355
A
cas.
while trickling down his Cheeks, why do you provoke A. D.
me to puniſhs ro Devout and Juſt a Man? If I would have 1237
liv'd without Reproach and Infamy, I ſhould not have
And caſt
ftain'd my Imperial Majeſty ; but now ſince I my ſelf have
been the Cauſe of my own Diſgrace and of the Empire's :
off by DH-
I may thank my ſelf for it, it is no more than I have de-
ſerv'd: I have somon evil Seed, and the Harveſt is like
it, evil. His Miſtreſs after this loft his Favour, and
he ſeriouſly repented him of the Folly and Sin of In-
continence in his Old Age.
Before we come to the Death of the Emperor
John Ducas Batazes, whoſe Empire we now leave in a
Flouriſhing State, it will be neceffary to ſee how Bald.
min behaves himſelf in that of Conftantinople.
He was in the Weſt when he heard of his Guar-
dian Folon de Bryenne's Death : He had in vain
ſollicited the Pope, the Kings of England and France,
for Succours. The State of Venice lent him ſome
Troops and Money, and for their Security he mort-
gagʻd the Crown of Thorns to them, which Valuable
Reliet was part of the Treaſure of the Conſtantinopo-Baldwin
litan Emperors. Lewis IX, commonly calla Sr. Lcmis, pawns the
King of France, redeem'd. it afterwards with Baldmin's Greek Reo
Conſent, and thus that Holy Relict. came into the lifts to the
Hands of the French. Beſides this Mortgage, Baldwin King of
Pawn'd to hiin the Spunge our of which the Soldiers
France.
gave our Saviour Vinegar to drink, and the Spear
with which his Sides were pierc'd. We are alhamd
to report ſuch Trifles, bur ic being what the French
Hiſtorians in their Hiſtories of theſe Times make a
great Flouriſh about, we thought the Engliſh Reader
would be diverred with an Account of the Riches of
this Age of Darkneſs and Idolarry.
About Six Months after Foon de Eryennc's Death,
Baldmin return'd to Conjtantinople, and wos Crown'd
in the Church of St. Sophiat. Proro the Day of his
Coronation he dated tbat of bis Reign, for till then ho
us'd to ſtile bimſelf only Heir of the Empire. He co-
ter'd into an Alliance with the Comanes and the Turkis
againſt Batazes the Greck Emperor; buc tiac Prince
was too hard for him and his Allies, and obligd him
to take another Tourney into the Well, to deve Aid
of ihe lialians, Germans, Englija, and French. He al
Ааъ
1
356
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
A. D. fifted at the Firit General Council of Lyons, in which
12310 Pope Innocent the 4th Preſided ; yet his Holineſs, who
was ſeverely perſecuted by the German Emperor Fre-
derick the 2d, did not take his Intereſt much to Heart,
having enough to do to keep himſelf in his Pontifical
Chair. The Emperor Baldwin brought into France
with him a Part of the True Croſs, which he preſented
to St. Lewis, who had undertaken the Croiſade. He
exhauſted the Sacred Depofitory of Relicts at Conſtan-
tinople, to gain the Friendſhip of that Bigotted Prince ;
yet Lewis gave him no more Supplies than the Value
of his Preſents amounted to: And while he was ab-
fent about his fruitleſs Negotiations, Ducas took his Ci-
ties from him, and reduc'd the Latins to the laſt Extre-
miry. Baldwin having no Body to apply to but the
Pope, would have conſented to any Terms of Reuni-
on of the Two Churches, and the Pope's Nuncio at
Conſtantinople had ſeveral Conferences about it with
Manu’l the Patriarch, which however came to nothing,
for the Greek Emperor preft ſo hard upon the Latins,
they had nor Time to effect the intended Reunion.
Baldwin came Twice into England to defire Aid of
Henry the 3d, but he found cold Entertaininent in his
Court :' And while he wander'd from one Kingdom to
another begging Help againſt the. Prevailing Power of
the Greeks, it pleas'd God to remove that Enemy out
of the World whom he fear'd moit; for on the 30th
1255. of Oktober, in the Year 1255, John Ducas Batazes dy'd
John Du- of an Epilepſie, having liv'd Sixty Two Years, and
cas dies. reign'd Thirty Three with Glory. He was a Prince
His Chio of ſo many Illuflrious Virtues, that his Fortune, as
great as it was, did not exceed his Merit : He was
Eminent as a Soldier and a Srače ſman: He was ſevere
in his Diſcipline as a Caprain, and as a Prince merci-
ful and mild in his Government: He never undertook
any War out of Wantonneſs or Vanity nor refus'd
Peace when he could get it on Honourable Terms ;
but the French he lookt upon as Invaders and Uſurpers,
as the Inveterate, Irreconcileable Enemies of the Greeks,
and he miſt no Opportunity of falling upon them,
which he did almoit always with Advantage : He was
Bold and Vigilant ; and though he often ſurpriz'd bis
Enemies, he was never himſelf furpriz'd: In the Be-
ginning
gaiter.
Chap. VII. John Ducas Nice. Bald. II. Conft. 357
.
ginning of his Reign he Affected Popularity, and was
A.D.
eaſie of Acceſs; but when he had ſuppreſt all the Par. 1255.
cies that were forin'd againſt him, diſcover'd ſeveral
Conſpiracies, and ſecur'd to himſelf the quiet Poſſeſ.
fion of the Throne, he took more State upon him, and
grew more reſervid, knowing that he muſt keep thoſe
Men in Obedience by Reſpect whom be gain’d by Fa.
miliarity, which is apt to deſcend to Contempt, unleſs
a Prince knows when to put a Stop to it. Such was
the Reign of Ducas Batazes, whoſe excellent Qualities
in any other Time than that in which he came to the
Crown, would have made as ſhining a Figure as thoſe
of any of his Predeceſſors in the Eaſtern Empire : In
which he was ſucceeded by his Son Theodorus Lafcaris,
ſo call'd from his Mother Irene, the Daughter of the
Firſt Emperor of that Name, in the Twenty-eighth,
or as ſome Authors will have it, (who reckon John de
Bryenne among the Greek Emperors,) in the Eighteenth
Year of Baldwin II, the Latin Emperor of Conſtantino-
ple, the Eight and Thirteeth of Henry III, King of
England, the Twenty-ninth of Lewis IX, King of
France, and the Firſt of the Pontificate of Pope Alexan.
der IV. A.D. 1255.
Theod. Laſc. II. Nice. Bildwin II.
Conftantinople
T Heodorus Lafcaris was born about the Time that his
Father Fohn Ducas Batazes came to the Crown,
and by Right of Succeffion the Imperial Diadem be-
long'd to him, rather than to his Father, who had no
Right beſides Theodore the Firſt's Donation, but what
he claim'd by his Wife's Title, whoſe Heir was the
Einperor now reigning, who was Proclaim'd by the
general Conſent of the Officers of the Army and the
Nobiliry; for his Father apprehenfive of his Heredi,
tary Right, had never ſuffer'd him to be ftild Emperor
in his Life.time, as was uſual in thoſe Days. He was
Crownd by Arſenius the Patriarch, Germanus dying
fome Time before that Ceremony was to be performid,
N-
A a 3
358
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII:
A. D. Nicephorus Blemmidas, whom we have had Occaſion to
1255, mention, was choſen to fill the Patriarchal Chair, buc
he would not leave his Monaſtery to take on him the
Second Dignity in the Greek Empire, which on his Re-
fuſal was beſtow'd on Arfenius, a Monk, who liv'd in
a Monaſtery near Apollonia.
Michael, King of Bulgaria, hearing of the Death of
Ducas, enter'd into a Confederacy with Michael Ange.
lus, Prince of Theſſaly, to make War on the Emperor's
Territories in Europe. Theodore, that he might not be
embroild in his Affairs in Aſia while he oppos'd the
Bulgarians and Epirots, renew'd and confirm'd the
Peace which his Father had concluded with 7atha-
thines, Sultan of Iconium ; and having left the Admi-
niſtration of the Government with Michael Paleologus, a
Man of the greatelt Intereſt and Authority in his Empire,
being related to all the Imperial Families, he croft the
$256. Helle pont in March 1256, and oblig'd the King of Bul.
garia, and the Deſpot or Prince of Theffaly, to beg a
Peace of him, and reſtore the Places they had ſurpriz'd
in Macedonia and Theffaly.
In the mean while the Affairs of Aſia were like to
be difturbd by ſome Civil Difíentions and the Malice
Michael of Michael Paleologus's Enemies, who had accus'd him
Palpolo to the Emperor of Designs againft his Imperial Autho-
rity, and procur'd him not only to be remov'd from his
priſon de Miniſtry, but to be impriſon's and loaden with Irons on
bare Suſpicion, The Patriarch Arfenius wrote to the
Emperor in his Behalf, and prevaild with him to ſet
him at Liberty, on Condition he took an Oath of Fi.
delity to him, his Son and Succeffors, which Paleologus
willingly conſented to to be freed from his Bonds. The
Patriarch drew up ihe Form of the Oath, and Palcolo
gus Solemnly ſwore to it, in Preſence of the Biſhops al-
Lembled for that Purpoſe. He afrerwards waited on
the Emperor, and they were ſeemingly very good
Friends. Thcodnre was of a froward, haſty Diſpofirion,
the Cauſe of which was imputed to his fickly Conſtitu-
tion, and his Body nor being able to endure the F3.
tipies which his Mind formd for the Encreaſe of his
Glory, he was jealous that his Subjects deſpisd him,
and that Jealcuſie often made him too ſevere, if not
cruel, ia the Adminiſtration of the Governirent. 6e
de-
gus in.
1
Chap.VII. Theod. Laſc. II. Bald. II. Conft. 359
depriv'd Raoul Alexius of the Charge of Protoveftiary, A. D.
or Maſter of the Wardrobe, to confer it on his Crea. 1256
ture George Muzalo, a Native of Endromitum in Phry.
gia, who had been the Companion of his Youth, and Theodor.
whom he marry'd to Theodora Cantacuzena, Palxoligus's Laſcaris':
Niece. He made Andronicus, Muzalo's Brother, Grand Severity.
Domeſtick, or General of his Armies; and their
Third Brother Grear Faulconer, thought they were of
mean Parentage, and the Two latter had nothing to
recommend them to his Favour but their old Acquain-
tance with him. He order'd Confiantine, the Son of
Alexius Strategopulus, to bę blinded ; and Thcodorus
Philez was ſerv'd in the ſame manner, though they
were both related to him, and had cominitred rio
Crime that deſerv'd ſuch a Puniſhment. Paleologus,
after his late Reconcilement, was made Governor of
Meſotynia, and had signaliz'd himſelf in the War with
the Latins ; one of his Friends, nam'd Cotys,
came from Court, and repreſented to him the Danger
he was in, aſſuring him his Enemies had ſet the Empe-
ror ſo much againſt him, he would certainly loſe his
Eyes if he did not provide for his Defence, or make
his Eſcape : The laſt Advice was the moſt feaz ble, and
accordingly he took with him bis moſt faithful Friends Palæolo-
and Followers, paſt the River Sangarus, and went to gns Ayes
Iconium, where he implor'd the Protection of the Sul-to the
tan, who receiv'd him favourably; and being at War Turks for.
with the Tartars, gave him the Coinınand of the Protectioilo
Greeks and other Foreign Troops in his Service. The
Tartars had driv'n the Turks out of Perfit, and the Pro-
vinces beyond the Tygris, and were advanc'd as far as
Axara, a City in the Leſſer Aſia, not far from Icoxilm.
Fathathines encourag'd by the Reinforcement brought
bim by Paleologus, Molinos, a Nobleman of Venice,
and other Chriſians, gave the Tartars Battel, and by the
Bravery of Paleologus's Greeks had got ſuch an Advan.
lage of the Enemy, that ir muit have ended in a Victo.
ry, had not one of his Chief Ofices, who was liis
Kinſman, deſerted to the Tartars in the H-at of the
Action, with the Body of Trups noder his Com-
mand, which turn'd the Fortun: ofite Day, and the
Turks were entirely defeated by the Tars, the lartes
recovering their Courage, which was almost (pent as
ikis
360
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
tais.
A. D. the fornier loft it at the Sight of the Deſertion of their
1256 Fellows. Paleologus and the General of the Turks was
ſo cloſely purſu'd by the Tartars, that for many Days
together they were doubtful of eſcaping them; at laſt
they reach'd a Caſtle of that General's and fav'd them-
ſelves in it. The Tartars by this Succeſs broke the
whole Strength of the Turks, ravag’d the Sultan's Ter-
ritories at Pleafure, and oblig'd him to implore the Pro-
tection of Theodore Laſcaris. He went in Perſon to
Nice, and was honourably entertain'd by the Emperor,
who ſpar'd him what Troops he could; the Command
of which he gave Iſaac Ducas, firnam'd Murtzuphilus,
a Man in great Credit with himn. Jathathines reſtor’d
to Theodore the City of Laodicea, but the Greeks foon
after loſt it to the Barbarians. Theſe Succours were
not ſufficient to oppoſe the Victorious Arms of the Tar.
The Turkstars; and though by this ſmall Reinforcement the Sul-
Tributariestan made a Stand a little while, he was at laſt forc'd to
to the Tar-accept of a Peace on the Tartars Terms, to pay their
Prince a Tribure, and to become his Vaffal.
When Palæologus fought in the Turkiſh Army, he put
Lafcaris's Arms in his Standard ; declaring he had not
withdrawn himſelf out of any ill Deſign againſt his Au-
thority, but only to Protect himſelf again't the Malice
of his Enemies: He ſeem'd to be ſorry that he had
left his own Country, and to with be might be permir-
ted to come Home. The Emperor hearing how bravely
he had behav'd himſelf in the Turkiſh Service, was as
willing to regain ſo worthy a Servant, as he was to re-
turn to bis Duty. Paleologus deſir’d the Biſhop of Cogni
to interceed for him, that he might be Pardon'd and re.
call'd; the Biſhop wrote to the Emperor in his Favour,
and Theodore immediately order'd his Pardon to paſs the
Seals, and to be ſent him ; requiring of him only to
Paleolo-
renew bis Oath of Fidelity to himſelf and his Son, and
guis re-
to Swear thar he would never aſpire to the Sovereignty.
c!l 2014
reltorf10 Upon which Conditions he was again made Great Con-
bis Honours ſtable of the Empire, and reſtord to all his Places of
and Oitics. Truſt and Honour.
Paleologus carry'd himſelf very ſubmiſſively to this
Prince for the remaining part of his Reign, tho' the great
Intereit he had in the Empire, render'd him frequently
qui pccted; and he was afterwards remov'd from the
Go-
ܪܐ
-
Government of Dyrrachium, which Theodore had given
Chap.VII. Theod. Laſc. II. Nice. Bald. II. Conſt. 361
A. DE
nefse
him, Impriſon'd, and in danger of his Life, on bare 125 ó
Suſpicion : Which Laſcaris nor being able to bring any He is again
Proofs for, he was oblig'd, by the general Diſlike of his Impriſon'da
Subjects at ſuch an unjuſt Proceeding, to give him his
Liberty. The Emperor's Indiſpoſition encreaſing dayly,
he imagin'd 'twas occafion'd by Sorcery. The Phyfici-
ans were of Opinion, that his Diſtemper was an Inflam-
ination of the Heart ; but the People were of their So-
vereign's Opinion, and imputed it to Witchcraft. They The Empe-
ror's Sicka
charg'd his Favourites, the Muzalo's, as Authors of it;
who they pretended were in haft to have the Sole Go.
vernment in their Poffeffion. The Emperor did not fuf-
pect his Friends, but was very ape to give Credit to
the malicious Inſinuations of others, to the Prejudice
of Perſons of the beſt Quality, who were Seiz'd and
Impriſon'd for conſpiring to have him deſtroy'd by Ma-
gick. Several of them were put to a cruel Trial of
their Innocence. They were order'd to take hold of a
Red-hot Iron, call’d the Holy Tron; and if they came
off unhurt, which they could not do withour a' Mira-
cie, they were adjudgʻd to be Innocent ; otherwiſe Acruel ſore
they ſuffer'd as Traytors. Thoſe that were order'd to
of Triat.
tbis Tryal, prepar'd themſelves for it by three Days
Falting and Praying. Their Hands were all the while
ry'd up in a Scarf, and Seal’d with the Emperor's
Seal, that they might not uſe any Art to defend them-
ſelves againſt the Fury of the Fire. And Paclymerus,
from whom we took this Part of Theodorus's Hiitory,
affirms, He ſaw ſeveral Perſons take hold of the Holy
Iron, Burning and Red-hot, and yet receive no manner
of Hurt by it.
Sometime before the Emperor's Death, he gave Theo-
dora, the Daughter of Martha, Palæologus's Sifter, in
Marriage to Bafilius, a young Gentleman whoſe Birth
was almoſt equal to hers; but the Emperor, who pre-
tended to a Right of Diſpoſing all the Ladies of Qua-
lity in Marriage, had given Balanidiotus a Promiſe of
her, and he had made his Addreſſes to the young La-
dy, who had receiv'd him Favourably, and her Mother
had given her Conſent to the March; but the Empe-
ror altering his Mind, Bafilius by Virtue of the Impe-
rial Mandate, claim'd her to be his Wife, and Marry'd
her,
-
362
!
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
!
A. D. her, The Greek Emperor's Power being Abſolute and
1256 Uncontroulable in that Point. The young Lady and
her Mother were both very much Troubled at the
Force put upon the Bride's Inclinations; and the Bride.
groom complaining, that he had not been able to
Conſummate the Marriage, Theodore ſuppos'd, The Mo-
ther had procur'd him to be Bewitch'd, upon which
Suppoſition he fell into a terrible Paffion againſt Palæo-
logus's Sifter, and reſolv'd to find out the Author of the
wicked Macbinations, which he imagin'd were made
uſe of co hinder Bafilius's enjoying his Wife. He or-
He fevere-
der'd the Mother of the Bride to be put into a Bag full
Ty Puniſhes
of Cats, with room enough left to hold her; and when
Paizolo-ſhe was ey'd up with them, the Cats were prickt thre
gus's Siſterthe Bag, to make 'em Scratch her with their Claws, till
on suſpicion ſhe confeſs'd what ſhe knew of the Secret ; which how
of Witch- ever did not anſwer the Emperor's Expectation. She
craft. deny'd that the knew
of any Magical Contrivances to
the Prejudice of her Son in Law, ſaying, She ſupposd
her Averſion proceeded from her Refentment, that the
had not been Marry'd to the Man to whom ſhe was firſt
Promis'd. Theodore would not ſuffer her to be Torturd
after this Declaration, being afraid that if fhe under-
itood Witchcraft, ſhe would exerciſe it upon him, or
rather apprehending the Vengeance of her Brother Mi.
chael Paleologus, whom he ſent for out of Priſon when
he found his end approaching ; entreated him to take
Care of his Children, and to remember how he had free.
ly Pardon'd hiin when he had deſerv'd Death. After
which the Emperor perceiving his end drawing nigh,
deſir'd to take on him the Habit of a Monk, which was
in thoſe ſuperſtitious Times thought to be a good Ar-
His Death.mour againſt the Affaults of the Devil, and then Ex-
1259 pir’d in Auguſt, A. D. 1259. having Reign'd Three
Years, Ten Months, and Liv'd Thirty Seven Years.
His Death was preſag'd by an extraordinary Eclipſe
of the Sun, which ſo Darken'd the Heavens ac Three a
Clock in the Afternoon, that the Stars were then viſible.
He was a Prince of a great Soul, Generous, and a
And C! :Lover of Learning and Learn’d Men, to whom he was
yder,
very Liberal. He had nor the profound Wiſdom and
undaunted Reſolution of his Father, yer he thew'd by
his Actions in the few Years of his Reign, that had he
liy'd
Chap. VII. Theod. Laſc. II. Bald. II. Conſt. 363
1
Hivd longer, he would rather have got more, than have 1. D.
Holt any of the Dominions left him by his Father. He 1259.
diſguſted ſome of his chief Nobility, by nis Advancing
and Enriching Men of obſcure Birth, particularly the Mu- Muzalo
Zalos, and leaving the Elder of the three Brothers Guardi- left Guar-
an of the young Emperor Fobn, bis Son, who ſucceeded dian of the
bim. The principal Perſons at Court grew more Dif-young, Em
contented after his Death, than they were before. He
peror John,
Dy'd in the Forty Third Year of Henry III. King of
England. The Thirty Third of Lewis IX. King of
France. And the Fifth of the Pontificate of Pope Alex.
ender IV.
John Laſe. Nice. Baldwyn II. Conſt.
We have already hinted that the late Emperor Theo-
dorus Lafcaris, had Nam'd George Muzalo to be
his Sons, the preſent Emperor's Guardian, with whom
he join'd the Patriarch Arfenius. The Nobilicy Mur-
mur'd that a Perſon of inean Deſcent, as Muzalo was,
hould be prefer'd to ſo high a Station as the Guardian-
thip of the Emperor and the Empire ; and thinking it
belong'd to their Rank to have the Adminiſtration of
the Government, they conſpir'd the Deſtruction of Mu-
zalo, who had ſecur'd the Perſon of the young Empe-
for in a ſtrong Fort, Garriſon'd by Soldiers all devota
ed to his Service. The Nobility upon this. ſpread The Nobi-
about a Report, That he aſpir'd to the Sovereignty, and
lity Con-
the People, who envy'd his Fortune, were prepard to ſpires -
attempt any thing againſt him. Muzalo ſeeing the Pe- guinſt Mu-
ril he was in, Summon'd the Princes, the Senate, che zalo.
Officers Civil and Military, and the Clergy, to a Con.
ſultation about the preſent State of the Empire. When
they were met, he rais'd himſelf on a Place from whence
he might be Seen and Heard by the whole Aſſembly,
and Spoke to them to this Effect. My Lords, 'Tis not
neceſſary to look so far back as to the beginning of my His Spee;
Advancement. I was not Born at Court, but brought thi. to them.
ther by my Father, wbo had the Honolir to yerve the late
Emperor, of Glorious Memory. You were all Witnefes
pith what Real and profound Reſpect me bebav" ! oser ſelves
818
364
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
1
A. D. in his Service ; we did not Inſinuate our Selves into his
1259. Affections by baſe Means, neither did we make uſe of his
Favour to Oppreſs others. Many of you can tell how rea-
dy we were to do good offices; nor were we inſtrumental in
bringing thoſe Misfortunes upon ſome of you, for which
we are Hated and Perſecuted at this Time. 'Twas not by
my Sallicitation that the Emperor left me the Government
of his Son, and I Mall not be willing to hold it longer
than you think fit. If you will appoint any other person
in my Place, I mall willingly reſign my Office to him,
and had rather be a private Subje& than enjoy the bigheſt
Dignities with Envy. Here are many illuſtrious Perſons
preſent, related to the Imperial Family, chuſe out one a.
anong
them to be Guardian of the Emperor, and I will
confirm your Ele&tion by my Vote. For 'tis not my own
Advantage, but my Prince's Safety that I aim at; and if
che Man you chuſe, will not accept of the Employment,
you muſt compel him to do it. I ſubmit my Self Yo entire-
ly to the pleaſure of this Aſſembly, that I am ready to
guit my Poft or continue in it, according as they Mall or.
der me.
I entrèat you therefore to Speak your Minds fiee-
ly, and I aſſure you that here is no Body diſpos'd to act
contrary to your opinion. If the Emperor was preſente
we might be afraid to ſay ſomething that might diſpleaſe
him; but being all equal here, we may declare our Senti-
ments with the more Liberty.
The whole Aſſembly ſeem'd to approve of his Speech
by a general Noiſe when he had done Speaking, and
ſaid, He was of all others to be prefer'd, to whom the late
Emperor, Lord of the Empire and of the Infant, bad
committed the charge of both. Muzalo repeated his
He mould Requeſt to be diſcharg'd of his Trust'; and the more
Retire. willing he appear'd to Retire and Live privare, the
more earneſt the Nobility were to have him continue
in his Poft; and Michael Paleologus anſwer'd his Speech
in a long Oration, in which he mix'd abundance of
Flattery and Diffimulation. Why, ſays he, pould you
offer to Talk thus to us ? Tou, whom the Judgment of the
Mich. Ta.Emperor, deceas’d, has plac'd above all of us, Have you
læologus's heard any Complaints againſt your Miniſtry ? The Honours
Any zver. you enjoy, were not the Effects of a blind Paſſion in the
Prince, but the Reward of Merit and Loyalty Has your
food Fortune been a Prejudice to any one ? Who of us will
profime
Chap. VII. John Laſc.Nice. Bald. II. Conſt.
365
.
preſume to think he is so worthy of your Place, as the A. D.
Man whom our late Mafter put in it? Go on therefore $2591
with as much Wiſdom and Succeſs as you have hitherto done,
and be ſtill as watchful of our Sovereign's Safety. Since
Some Body muſt Govern the Empire, ſince we cannot all
be Guardians to the Emperor : Who has a better Title to
it, by his Prudence and Capacity, than your Self.----This
is what I have to say on the Master, if any Man thinks
otherwiſe, let him ſpeak: But I perceive by the univerfal
Acclamations of all here preſent, that they are all of the
farne Opinion. Indeed the Nebility were ſo poor Spiri-
ted, that tho they heartily hated Muzalo, they durſt
not thew their ill Will to him; on the contrary they
Flatter'd him, and Prais'd him immoderately; and
proteſted they were all willing to Obey him and no
body elſe ; and both Clergy and Laity took an Oath to
Defend the Perſon of the young Emperor, and Muzalo The Nobili-
in the Tuition of him, and the Government of the ty Swear
Stare ; yer before Nine Days were over, they treache. to defend
rouſly Conſpir’d to Murder him, and barbaroufly effe. Muzalo.
cted it in this manner.
The Emperor Theodore's Funeral was to be folem-
niz'd at Sofandra, an Abby built by him in Honour of
Our Lady, at Magneſia. To which end the Officers of
the Crown and Army mer at Sofandra, with the chief
Perſons of the Empire, to attend the Solemnity. By Mu-
zalo's Appointment moſt of the Perſons of Quality of
both Sexes came to that Monaſtery, and among them
the Conſpirators and the foreign Mercenaries, who
were under the Command of the Great Conftable Palco-
gus ,
and were exaſperated againſt Muzalo by the
Miſrepreſentations of his Enemies, who ſaid he was the
cauſe that the Gratuity given them by the deceas'd Em-
peror's Will, was ſtopr. George Muzalo and his two
Brothers, Andronicus and Theodorus, were the firft that
repair'd to Soſandra, where the Obſequies were per-
forining, and the Funeral Hymns finging; when the
Soldiers according to their Inſtructions from the Con-
ſpirators, ruth'd into the Church with their drawn
Swords, which when Muzalo ſaw, apprchending their
approach in that poſure was for his Deſtruction, he fied and see
to the Holy Altar with his Brothers, where they were Murder
cruelly Maffacred, with others that were known to be him.
the Muzalo's Friends.
Thoſe
366
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
A. D. Thoſe that affifted at the Solemnity, were in a ter.
1259. rible Frighr, and would have fled out of the Church,
but the Soldiers uſing Violence, obligd them to finiſh
the Ceremony and inter the Corps of the late Emperor,
whoſe Obſequies they had prophan'd with Blood.
The'Charge of the Emperor and Empire by the
Death of Muzalo, deſcended to the Patriarch Arſenius,
who being a Man of no great Ability, was afraid to ac-
cept of an Office which had been ſo Fatal to his Parc-
ner in the Regency; and in the Fright he held Coun.
cil with the very Perſons, who had been Acceſſaries to
the Death of Muzalo, to conſult who ſhould ſucceed him.
Among other principal Noblemen who appear'd at this
Meering, was Michael Palæologus, a Man who by his
Affability and Liberality had gain'd the Hearts of the
Greeks, eſpecially of the Soldiery, who admir'd him for
his Valour as much as they Lov'd him for his Bounty.
The Patriarch, fince Theodore's Death, had made him
Lord Treaſurer; and having the Treaſures of the Em-
pire at his diſpoſal, he had employ'd a great part of
them to confirm and enlarge his Intereſt. By which
means when it came to be conſider'd who was the
fitteſt Perſon, to be appointed Regent in the place of Mue
zalo, he was unanimouſly declar'd Protector of the
Prince, and of the State and Honourd with the Of
fice of Lord-High-Admiral,
Paleolo The Patriarch durft not oppoſe the Choiſe, tho” he
gusſucceeds with d it had fall'n on any other Perſon, being appre-
Muzalo in henſive of the ill Effects of his Ambition and Reſent-
the Government, yet he comply'd witb the Times; the ſame did
ment of the the Inferior Clergy, who were gain'd by Palæologus's
Emperor Preſents; and not content with the Title of Guardian
AndEmpire to the Emperor, which was beſtow'd upon him, they
would have that of Deſpot confer'd on him, which was
an Indication that he aim'd at án higlier Power than
that of Governor of the young Prince. Several of the
late Emperor's Friends oppos'd the giving him that
Title; alledging, Laſcaris had left Daughters, and
there was Reafoa to fear they would be Marry'd to
Perſons below their Quality, if the Honours to which
Their Hushands might prerend, were engroſs’d by others
Bar the Bithops, Staregopulus, Pbiles, and thoſe Nobles
sxcn who had been Blinded by the laré Emperor, fell
V
Chap. VII. John Laſc. Nice. Bald. II. Conſt. 367
in warmly with Palæologus's Party, which being the Ma- A. D.
jority, he was declar'd Deſpot, with the accuitom'd Ceo 1259.
remonies. Arfenius, the Patriarch, conſenting to it as He is de
ſoon as any of the other Courtiers.
clar'd Def
Paleologus was now in Poſſeſſion of the next Tempo. pot.
ral Dignity to that of Sovereign in the Empire, in his
own Right ; and he began to act with more Authority.
Thoſe that did not favour his Advancement, he Baniſh'd
the Court ; and on his Friends he was profuſely Libes
ral of his Treaſure and Promiſes, which gain’d upon
them ſo far, that they ſpoke our freely what they in-
tended to do for him ; and inceſſantly Sollicited the Pa-
triarch to affociate him in the Empire, pretending that
without it, the Peace of the Stax would never be fer-
led on a ſure Balis : That his lice of Governor nor
giving him ſo abſolute a Power, as was neceſſary for the
Safety of the Government ; be ought be vefted with
the Sovereignty. Arſenius was afraid of putting the
Imperial Crown on bis Head, knowing that the Throne
was never thought big enough to hold two with equal
Authority. However his Party was reſolv'd upon it, And fait
and accordingly faluted him Emperor near Magneſia. t d Empes
The Patriarch was very much Troubled at the News,
and thought of Excommunicating him and his Accompli-
ces; but fearing that might involve the Empire in
greater Troubles, he took another courſe and comply'd
with them, on Condition Palæologus Swore ſolemnly,
That he would never attempt any thing againſt the Life
of the Child, or by any Pretence whatſoever, go about
to deprive him of the Imperial Dignity. Which Oath
was alſo taken by the chief Ferſons of his Faction ;
upon this Arſenius agreed, That he hould be Proclain'd
the Emperor's Collegue, on the firſt of January fol
lowing
In the mean time Michael Angelo, Deſpot of Epirus,
who had Marry'd the Emperor Thcodore's Sifter, hear-
ing of Paleologus's Uſurpation and the Revolutions in
Aſia, thought to improve thoſe Diſturbances to the en-
largement of his Dominions, by attacking the Roman
Territories in Europe. The King of Sicily, the Princes
of Achaia and the Morea, his Sons in Law, and the
King of Bulgaria, join á with him in the War; and irje
vading Macedonia and Thrace, rub'd and wanted the
Cound
101.
368 The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
A. D. Country. Againſt them Paleologus ſent John, his Bro-
1259 ther, whom he madel Grand Domeſtick, or Captain Ge.'
neral of the Forces of the Empire, with a great Army,
who routed the Epirots and took the Prince of Achaia
Priſoner, who for his Ranſom gave the Emperor Michae!,
ſometime after, Monembaſia, Main and Sparta, three of
the beſt Cities in Peloponeſus, of which he made Con.
ftantine, his Brother by the Mother's fide, Governor ;
and Conſtantine Conquer'd the greateſt part of the Moo
rea. The Reputation of his Arms in Europe was ſuch,
that the Enemies of the Roman or Greek Empire, began
to dread his growing Power, the Latins to fear the
diffolution of their Dominion, and the Greeks who had
not fubinitted to the emperor at Nice, to be apprehen-
five, that they wou foon be treated as Rebels, and
loſe the Liberty to which they pretended. This glo.
rious Proſpect animated Paleologus's Friends in Afia,
to demand the performance of the Agreement made by
the Patriarch, to declare him the Emperor's Collegue,
which was done. The two Emperors bound themſelves
by Oaths and Curſes to be True to each others Inte-
reft ; and their Subjects ſwore Fidelity and Allegiance
to both of them. After which Palcologus affum'd the
Imperial Title and Ornaments, and was ſolemnly
Crown'd in the City of Nice by the Patriarch; who
to excuſe his afſenting to his Uſurpation, ſaid, He would
And is be underſtood to put the Crown upon his Head, only in
Crown'd by compliance with the neceſſity of the Times; and in expe&ta.
the Patri- tion that he ſhould reſign it when the Emperor came of
Ach.
Age. Bur Pal.cologus having gain'd his point, and gor
Arfenius to Crown him, took no notice of the Prieſt's
Equivocations. On the contrary he aſſerted his Sove-
reignty, and ſecur'd it to his Poſterity more effectually
than any of his Predeceſſors, ſince the Reſtauration of
the Weſtern Empire,
Mich.
1
-
Chap. VII.Mich.Palæolog. Nice.Bald. II. Conſt. 369
:
Mich. Palæologus, Nice. Baldwyn II.
Conft.
WH Hen Palæologus ſaw himſelf in poffeffion of the A. D.
Imperial Throne, he advanc'd his Family and 1259
Friends. His Brother 7ohn had the Daughter of Con.
ftantine Tornicius, and his Brother Conſtantine the Daugh-
ter of Branas, given them in Marriage. The Houle of
Branas and that of Tornicius, were two of the moſt il-
luftrious Families of the Empire, and their Alliance
with that of Palæologus, very much ſtrengthned the In-
tereſt of his Family. He march'd with his Army to
Philadelphia, to thew bimſelf to his new Subjects, or-
dering the Fortifications of the Cities in his March, to
be Repair'd and Enlarg'd. The Troubles in the Weſt,
occaſion'd by the Ambition of Michael, Deſpot of Epire,
very much diſquiered him; and that he might not bave
to do with two powerful Enemies at once, he confirm'd
the Treaty of Peace between the Romans and the Turks,
concluded by the Emperors Ducas and Laſcaris, and
the Sultan of Iconium. He alſo renew'd the Truce
with the Latins, and orderd bis Brother Fobn to carry
on the War in the West, againſt the Epirots. This
Prince reduc'd ſeveral Cities, and brought the Deſpot's
Affairs into a very low Condition, which oblig'd him
afterwards to implorethe Emperor's Mercy, and to ſend
his Wife and Children to his Court, as Hostages of his
Fidelity.
Palæologus having got rid of thac Enemy, reſolv'd
10 turn all his Strength againſt the Latins, and began
the War with the Siege of Sclybrium, which City was
ſurrender'd to his Forces
About this time the Patriarch Arſenius abdicated the
Goverment of the Greek Church, foreſeeing the De-
fruction of the young Emperor, co which he imagin'd
Arſenius
he had contributed, by Crowning Paleologus; and re-
the Perio
penring of his Compliance, he left his Patriarchal Chair
uril: 5min
in Diſcontent, and recir'd to the Monaſtery of Paſcofuscites bis
on the River Draco. The Prelates Cent Deputies to him, See.
Bb
--
390
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VII.
!
sus in-
A. D. to defire him to return to the Exerciſe of bis Ecclefiafti.
1259 cal Supremacy; but he was ſo diſguſted with the Empe.
ror Michael, for having deceiv'd him in the Manage.
ment of his Guardianship, to which he had been as
forward as any one to advance him, that he could not
be prevail'd upon to return to his Spiritual Government ;
fo Nicephorus, Biſhop of Epheſus, was choſen Patriarch
in his room.
In the mean while Palæologus rais'd a powerful Army,
Palæolo- croſsd the Hellefpont, and attack'd Galata in the Neigh-
bourhood of Conftantinople ; hoping by making himſelf
vades the
Maſter of that Fort, to oblige the Latins in the Impe-
Latin Ex-rial Cities, to open their Gates to him; but they made
pive.
ſo refolute a Reſiſtance, that he was forc d to raiſe the
Siege. However he took in moſt of the Towns and
Caſtles about Conſtantinople, which he Garriſon'd, and
by that means ſo ftreightend the Latins in the Town, that
they durit not ftir out of their Gates, which put them on
the necefſity of deſtroying ſome of the fairelt Houſes in
the City, for Fewel. Palcologus having ſhut up the
French within the Walls of Conftantinople, repaſt the
Hellefpont and return d to Nice, where he made Prepa-
rations for a ſecond Expedition againſt them, whoſe
Baldwins's Emperor Baldwin was a Man of a Spirit as poor as his
We akneſs. Fortune. He liv'd in a State of Inactivity, amuſing him-
ſelf with Things below the Dignity of his Crown; and
his Circumſtances by his own Miſmanagement, and the
declining Fortune of the Latins were ſo low, that he
was the Contempt of both his Enemies and his own
Subjects.
He was forc'd to ſell the publick Ornaments of the
Ciry, and to pawn his Son so a Merchant of Bruges in
He Pawns Flanders, to raiſe Money for his Subliſtance. The Mer.
Ibis Son to chant ſent him to Venice for the Benefit of his Educati.
4.Merchint on, among a politer People than the Flemmings were ;
of Bruges, and this gave riſe to the Report, That his Father had
Pawr'd him to the Venetians.
When Palæologus return’d to Nice, Zaebathines, Sul-
ran of Iconium, being driven out of his Territories by
the Tartars, fled to him for his Protection ; but the
Emperor who had not entirely ſubdu'd the Deſpor Mi-
chael, and was eager to have the Imperial City under
his Subjection, could not conveniently ſpare him any
T5008S.
!
ie
Chap. VII. Mich.Palæolog. Nice.Bald.II. Cor. 371
;
Troops. So the Sultan not daring to go back without A.D.
Supplies, accepted of a Retreat in the Greck Domini. 1259.
ons, and liv'd ſome cime at Ænum, a City Ain Thrace ;
where himſelf and his Train, to the Number of 1200
Men, were guarded like ſo many honourable Priſoners.
The Deſpot of Epirus raiſing new Troubles in Europe,
Palæologus lent Alexius Strategopulus againſt him. Alexius
Alexius
was a famous Captain, and had in this War been Crea-
Strategoa
ted Cæfar. His Deſcent was as Noble as his Fame and
pulus fens
Quality; and the Emperor had ſuch an Opinion of his against the
Valour and Conduct, that he doubted not of his Succeſs, Epirots.
tho' he had no more than 800 Bithynians with him. He
had a Commiſſion to raiſe more Forces in Tbrace; but
with the few that he had giv'n him, he did an Action
which made this Year the moſt Glorious of Paleologus's
Reign. The Emperor order'd nim when he had pait the
Streights, to take his way into Thrace, through the Su-
burbs of Conſtantinople to terrife the Latins, whom he
intended to Harraſs perpetually by Action and Allarms,
till he had made them weary of their Abode there; for
they were no little better than Priſoners, being Confin'd
within the Walls of thac City. Alexius paffing the Pro.
pontis, encampt at Rbegium, not far from Conftantinople;
where by chance he met with ſome poor Labourers,
Greeks by Nation, who were Born and Dwelt in that
City. He inquir'd of them in what Srare it then was,
and what Strength the Latins bad in it. They told him,
Baldwin had but a few Soldiers, and the greateſt part
of thoſe he had, were then abſent on an Enterprize to
tetake Daphnuſia, a City on the Euxine. The Labour-
ers, as the Greeks generally did, abhor'd the Domination
of the Latins, and to put an end to it, offer'd Alexi-
us to new him a private Entrance into the City, if he
would attempt it. They happen'd to dwell near one
of the Gates, by which was an old Mine that was then
almoſt ſtopt up, yet there was room enough for a Man
to paſs, which Place was unſuſpected by the Larinis;
and by ic they promis'd to receive Fifty of his Men in
the Night, who fecting upon the Watch on a ſudden,
might preſently Cut them io Pieces, and fotce open the
Gates. Alexius hearkend to the Propoſal made him by
the Labourers, approvd of it, and promisd to Reward
them anſwerably to the Service they did their Country.
B b 2
Hc
1
372
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VII.
ges Con-
A. D. He choſe Fifty Men, and at the Hour appointed by
1259. the Greeks, who alſo engag'd to get Aſliſtance in the
Town. He commanded them to enter the Mine, which
they did, paſt through it into the City, flew the Watch,
and broke open the Gate ; at which Alexius and the
reſt of his Soldiers enter'd a little before break of Day.
He drew up bis Men in order of Battel, and command-
He furpri-
ed that the City ſhould be ſer on Fire in four Places,
ftantino-
which encreaſing with the Wind, burnt with irreſiſtible
ple.
Fury, to the great Terror of the Latins, who in the
Confternation they were in, imagining the number of
the Romans to be much greater than it was, fled from
the Enemy, and abandon'd the City to the Rage of the
Greeks, and the Fire. The Emperor Baldwin was na-
turally a Coward, and deſpairing now to recover a
The Latins loft Cauſe, he got aboard a Galley, and made his Eſcape
abandon the by Sea, to Eubæa, taking with him Juſtinian the Latin
City. Patriarch, and ſome other of his Friends. From Eubea
he ſaild to Venice, and from Venice he went to France,
Baldwin
whence he wander'd up and down to implore Aid of
driven ont
of the Eaſt. the Weſtern Potentares : But they all refus’d to affiſt that
Prince to regain an Empire which he ſo little deſerv'd to
Govern.
The Latins fled after their Sovereign, and Alexius
baving put 1 itop to the Deſtruction and Slaughter of
char Day, order'd the Soldiers and Citizens to do their
endeavours to extinguiſh the Flames; and ſent an Ex-
preſs to the Emperor Paleologus with an Account of his
Succeſs, which was ſo extraordinary and unexpected,
that the Emperor could hardly give Credit to it; but
when 'twas Confirm'd by a ſecond Advice, he order'd
publick Thanks to be return'd to Almighty God, and
remov'd with his whole Court to Conſtantinople, where
he made his Entry on foot, with a Pomp ſuitable to the
Joy of the Roman Empire. This Revolution happen d
in July, in the ſecond Year of the Emperor Michael Pe-
læologus. The Thirty Second of Baldmin the laſt Latin
Emperor. The Forty Fifth of Henry the third King of
England. The Thirty Fifth of Lewis the Ninth King
of France. And the Firſt of the Pontificate of Urban
the Fourth. A. D. 1261.
3261
-
C H A P.
Chap. VIII.
373
Michael Palæologus.
CH A P. VIII.
From the Taking of Conftantinople
by Michael Palæologus, and the
Expulſion of the French; to the
Taking of the City by Mahomet
the Second, and the Death of Con-
ſtantine the Fifteenth, the laſt
Greek Emperor
Containing the space of One Hundred Ninety
Two Years,
Michael Palæologus.
A. D.
120L
E Arly the next Morning the Emperor held Council to
provide for the Safety of the City, and to conſult
how he might gain the Love of the Genoeſe, the Vene-
tians and the Piſans, the Chief of the Italians thae
liv din Conſtantinople, whoſe Example he chought would
influence all the reſt, either to Diſturb his Government,
or live in Quiet. He granted conſiderable Privileges
to theſe three Nations, and by dividing them among
themſelves, endeavour'd to weaken their Strength.
Tho' he was thus happily ſertled in the Foffeiiion of
the Metropolis of the Greek Empire, yet his Mind was
ſtill Diſquieted with apprehenſions of Danger from the
Title of John Lafcaris, his Partner in the Throne; wha
had the vain Name of Emperor, while himſelf enjoy'd
the ſole Power. He knew very well, that ſeveral Pero
ſons openly accus d him of Ingratitude and Treaſon so
that abus'd Prince, He us'd his Friends very ill, and
Bb
374
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. his Jealouſie growing more Troubleſome every Day,
I 201. he began to conceive Thoaghts of removing him our
of the way, which he at lait effected. This cruel De.
fign he only communicated to his belov'd Sifter Eulogia,
who confirm'd him in his wicked Reſolution. To ex-
cuſe which, he pretended to Colour it with a fhew of
Juſtice, by alledging, That ſince he alone had recover'd
the Imperiai Seat, he alone ought to poſteſs the Imperi-
al Crown. He trove to keep his ambitious Purpoſes
ſecret, bur the Clear-Gghted ſoon perceiv d what he
aiin'd at, by not permitting the Emperor John to accom-
pany him in his return to Conſtantinople.
1262 The next Year the Emperor Michael ſent Nicephorit-
He rends us and Alubardus, who had been Secretaries to Bald.
an Embaly win II. in an Embaſſie to Pope Urban IV.
to the Pope. The Italians as well as the French, provok'd by the
Expulſion of Baldwin, a Bigot to the Latin Church
The Embas roſe on Nicephoritzus, ſeiz d him, drag'd him by the
fador Flead Feer through the Streets of Rome, and head him alive.
alive by His Companion Alubardus found means to make his ef-
.
cape. 'Tis ſaid theſe Embaſſadors were not only order'd
to carry magnificent Preſents to the Pope, but had In-
ſtructions to propoſe ihe Re-union of the Greek and La-
tin Churches; which the Emperor thought would be the
ſureſt way of Reconciling him to his Holineſs.
Palæolo-
The Patriarch Arfenius came to Conftantinople, where
he was receiv'd by the Emperor with extraordinary
gus
Crocom'd Honours, and preſented with many rich Ornaments for
alones himſelf and his Church, At the time appointed for
Palcologus's Coronation, he was Crown'd in the Cathco
dral Church, with the uſual Ceremonies and Pomp.
No mention was made of Fohn Laſcaris, whereas Alexi-
us was Pray'd for in the publick Prayers immediately
aficr the Emperor and Empreſs
Paleologus having thus ſeated himſelf alone in the
Throne of the Byzantine Empire, to ſecure the Pofſeffi-
on of it to his Family, enter'd into ftrict Alliances
with ſeveral foreign Princes.
The next Thing the Emperor did rowards his future
Sertlernent in the ſoie Severeignty of the Empire, was
ço Marry the Emperor John's three Siſters to Strangers,
who living at a diſtance, had no Intereſt among the
Grieks; and conſequently would not be able to afferu
their
Chap. VIII.
Michael Palæologus.
375
the Z.mpis
their Wive's Right to the Imperial Crown, if ever
A. Do
126:.
there ſhould be any mention made of it, in caſe Fokoz
Talæolo-
dy'd without Iſſue. The eldeſt he marry'd to Mahicu
de Valincourt; the ſecond to William Peter Balba Count gus marys
of Ventimiglia, a City on the Coaſts of Genod; the ,or John's
third to Venceſlaus an Officer in his Army.
Sifier to
While Baldwin the Frer.ch Emperor livd, Palxlogus Perſons of
was always apprehenſive of an Invaſion, and to be on inf;rior
his guard, he entertain'd great numbers of Soldiers and Quality.
Seamen, Natives of the Morea, in his Pay. He rais'd
the Walls of Conſtantinople ſeveral feet higher than he
found them. He furniſh'd the Magazines with Provie
tions of all ſorts, and aſſign'd Penſions to both Officers
and Soldiers to encourage them in their Service
But he thought it in vain to arm himſelf againſt his
Enemies abroad, while his moſt dangerons Foe liv'd at
home and enjoy'd the Title of Sovereign, to which he
had undoubtedly the beſt Right, and which was his
only Crime. Paleologus couid no longer endure the
Torments of his Jealouſy and Fears, and to eaſe him-
felf of them, he came to 'a reſolution to execure his in-
tended purpoſes, and by putting out of his Eyes, to Paizola-
put it out of the Power of the young Emperor, or hisgus blinds
Friends on his account to hurt him. The Perſons' that ile you?
had Orders to do this dereftable Deed, ſet a hot Baton Emperor.
before his Eyes which dry'd up the viſual moiſture and
blinded him. And this act of Clemency was to excuſe
the Emperor's breach of Oaths to lie crne to his Inte.
relt. Paleologus thought it enough that he did nor com-
mand his Pupil's Eyes to be bord out wiih a hint Iron,
as was cuſtomary in ſuch caſes. This dreadful Exe
cution was committed on the 25th of December, 2017?
1261. The whole Court were divided berwecn Piri
and Terror; the Courtiers could not without Compar
fion behold the Innocent Prince led to the Fort of
Dacibazus, to live in perpetual Bondage and Dark.
neſs the remainder of his Days : Yet they darſt mot diſe
cover their Rcfentment for fear of following the For-
tune of the young Emperor's Friends ; of whom fome
were Murilared, others turnd out of iheir osces and
thut up in Monaſteries: For the leaſt few of Pity to:
wards the Unfortunate Prince, was an Offence, which
Paleologus could not pardun.
he
12624
376
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. The Emperor's Enemies gave out that the young Em-
1262. peror had made his eſcape, and was in the Neighbour-
hood of Nice in Bythinia. They thew'd a Youth of his
Age to the People, and him the Inhabitants of the
Mountains in that Province own'd for their Sovereign.
They ftill lov'd the Memory of the Houſe of Laſca-
ris, the Champions of the Greek Liberties againſt the
French and Papal Tyranny, which lately threaten’d
thein ; and having taken an Oath of Fidelity to John
An Impo-the young Emperor, believing this Impoſtor to be their
Stor raiſes real Sovereign, or reſolving to revenge the Cruelties
Troubles in committed on his Perſon, under colour of defending
Alia.
his Rights they took Arms, truſting in the natural ſtrength
of their Country.
The Emperor Michael was in a terrible Rage when
he heard of the Revolt of the Mountaineers, and imme-
diarely ſent what Forces were ready, to ſuppreſs them.
The Imperial Army drove them to their Mountains as
faſt as they ventur'd to deſcend into the plain Country,
but they defended the Paſſes to their inacceſſible Re-
trcats with ſo much Bravery, that Paleologus thought it
more prudent to make uſe of Policy than Force to re-
duce them : He order'd ſome of their Chiefs to be in-
forin'd that the young Emperor was really in the Foro
of Dacybazus; and to convince them of the Truth of
this Information, he would grant Paſports to as many
of them as thought fit to go chither and ſee him. He
alſo offer'd them a Pardon for their Rebellion, if they
would deliver up the Impoſtor. In ſhort the Imperial
Agents by Perſwafions and Threats and Preſents to the
Ring-leaders of the Revolt prevail'd ſo far that the
Impoſtor fearing to be deliver'd up to them, fled to the
Turks, and his Followers made their Peace with the
Emperor
This Storm was ſcarce over when as dangerous a
one threaten d Michael in the seat of his Empire. The
Patriarch who was always a Friend to the Houſe of
Laſcaris, hearing how barbarouſly the young Prince
Fobn had been created, ſuminon'd the Bithops to con
fulc how they ſhould proceed with Palcologus, whoſe
Crimes had call'd down Divine Vengeance on his Head,
which they as the Miniſters of Heaven ought to inflict.
He told the Prelates, That if the Divine Žiiſtice ſecm')
ri
by
Chap. VIII.
377
Michael Palæologus.
by a ſecret Fudgment to neglect puniſhing the Violence A. De
their Sovereign bad ſuffer'd, it did not diſpenſe them 1262.
from doing their Duty ; and that they ought to fhew their
Horrour and Indignation at Palæologus's Crimes. He
repreſented the Enormity of the Sin, being a compli-
cation of Treaſon and Ingratitude, and declar'd he
could do no leſs than excommunicate the Offender.
The Biſhops could ſay nothing againſt the Patriarch's
Zeal in ſo righteous à Cauſe, and fearing to undergo
his Diſpleaſure, if they refus'd to join with him in it,
which however he could do of himſelf without them,
they conſented to the excommunication of the Empe- The Parri-
ror, which the Patriarcb pronounc'd in form, yet with arch Ex-
this reſtriction, that his Name ſhould not be left out of communi-
the publick Prayers.
cites Palæ,
The Emperor Michael was mightily concernd at the ologus.
proceedings of the Prelates. It interrupted a while the
Courſe of his Affairs, he appear'd always in a publick
modeſt Dreſs, that he might not ſeem to deſpiſe the Ful-
minations of the Church, and when the firſt ſhock was
over, he apply'd [himſelf to the Cares of his Govern-
ment, fitted out a Fleet, and put ſome Land Forces a-
board, who took the Iſands of Naxos, Ceos, Caryſta,
Orea, and the City of Lacedemon.
Irene Daughter of Theodore Laſcaris was marry'd to
Conſtantine King of Bulgaria, and highly reſenting her
Brother's Blindneſs and Captivity, had inftigated her
Husband to offer ſeveral Affronts to the Emperor Mi-
chael, who to Chaſtize him, ſent an Army to invade
his Territories ; accordingly they maſter'd Phillippopolis,
Stenimachus, Meſembria, and the greateſt part of the Pro-
vince.
Yer his Succeſſes abroad did not pacifie the Diſquiets
of his Conſcience at home: The War rag'd ſtill there,
when his Arms had brought his Dominions in Europe to
a State of Tranquility.
Having provided all things requiſite for his Brother
John's paffing into Aſia, that Prince poſted to the Banks
of the Meander, where he preſerv'd the City of Tralles.
and Caryſtra from falling into the Hands of the Infidels.
He allo kept the Macedonians in their Alliance, and by
his Bouncy and good Conduct prevented the Revolt of 1264,
other places, which were weaken'd by the Emperor s.
drawing
378
The Rorian Hiſtorý. Chap. VIII.
A. D. drawing off their beſt Men to ſerve in his Armies in
I 264. Europe. The Turks frighted by the ſpeed and vigour of
John Pa- his motions, reſtor'd the Priſoners they had taken, and
Izologus's demanded Peace, which he comply'd with, knowing
Expedition the loweſtate of the Empire, occafion'd by long inteſtine
into Afia.
Wars, and fearing if he had refus'd their Demands,
they might have reveng'd themſelves on the Crbiſtians that
were in their power. When he had ſettled the Treaty
with them, compos'd the Diſorders of the Government
in the Eaſt, and exhorted the Peaſants to Cultivate their
Lands, be return'd to Conſtantinople.
About this time the Bucellarians, Mariendanes, and
the Paphlagonians, People inbabiting the Country, bor-
dering on the Scamandre in Aſia Minor, being heavily
burthen'd by new Impofitions, collected by Fellows of
mean Birth, who to enrich themſelves impoveriſh'd the
Provinces, revolted to the Turks, and ſurrender'd their
Forts to them, which the Emperor made no grear haft
to recover, being more fond of enlarging bis Domini-
ons in the Weſt tban of preſerving the little that was
left him in the Eaſt. He had heard that the Italians
had made Incurſions into the Greek Territories. To re-
venge himſelf for this Affront, he rais'd a great Army
and fail'd to Theſalonica, to be ready to give Orders
for carrying on the War; but the Seaſon being far ad.
vanc'd, and the Enemy recreated he put his Troops ine
to Winter Quarters.
During the Emperor's abſence, Fathathines Sultan of
Iconium, whom Michael Palaclogus deraind in an ho-
nourable confinement at Conſtantinople, under colour of
Friend hip; being weary of his Impriſonment, wrote
to his Uncle, who rul'da Nation inbabiting the Coun-
rry lying on the North of the Euxine Sea, to deliver
him ; informing hira that he would get leave to go to
Theſſalonica, and when he was there he might caſily
deliver him, by inciting the Bulgarians and Tartars to
make a ſudden Irruption on the Empire. He wrote to
the Emperor, inſinuating that he could not live with-
out the Honour of ſeeing him, and praying him to per-
mit him to wait upon him. Palæologus not miltruſting the
Deceit, permitted him to come, as well to anſwer his
obliging requeſt, asto Mew him his Weſtern Provinces;
Fatbathines's Uncle went immedierely to Conftantine
King of Bulgarie, and by the Inſtigation of his Wife
17che
Chap. VIII.
379
,
Michael Palæologus.
Irene, without much difficulty prevail'd with him to A. D.
declare againſt the Emperor. He alſo invited the Tar 1264-
tars to join in the War, promiſing them to pay them
himſelf.
Fatbathines left his wife and Children, his Mother, The Culga-
his Siſter and Treaſure at Conſtantinople, and with a rians and
very ſmall Equipage ſet out for Theſſalonica, where he Scythians
found the Emperor, who ſoon after his arrival return'd invade the
towards Conftantinople, about 350 Mile diſtance from Empire,
Salonike.
As he was in his way he heard that the Bulgarians
and Tartars having paſt Mount Hemus, were fallen down,
upon his Territories like a Storm that overwhelm'd all
before it. They did not come on in a Body but in
ſmall Parties, robbing and ſpoiling the Country, and
putting the Inhabitants to the Sword. The Emperor
was terribly ſurpriz'd at the News, the more becauſe
he had disbanded his Troops after he had coinpos'd the
Troubles in the Weſt. Beſides, there Barbarians were
lookt upon as little leſs than invincible by the Modern
Romans, and they flew along ſo faſt that they were
not above a Days Journey off of bim when he receiv'd
information of their Invaſion. In this Fright his Friends
and Followers ſhifted for themſelves all but a few, who
had leaſt to loſe, and were reſolv'à to ſhare his for-
tune. He iled away wiih all poſſible haft, and by the
benefit of the Night and forre adjacent Rocks he reach'd
the Mountain Gana undiſcover'd. Here he diluiſt the
Sultan Fatbathines, and thoſe that had the charge of his
Baggage. Himſelf hid in the Mountains, flying from Paleolo-
place to place till a Veſſel by chance put into a little gus in
Port on that Coaſt to take in fresh Water, aboard which greni Dar
he embark'd for Conſtantinople, where he happily ar-ger.
riv'd. His Men were diſperítup and down in ſeveral parts
of Thrace; Fathathines being with thoſe that guarded the
Baggage, who threw themſelves inco the Forcof Enun.
There they had a breathing time a while till the Bar-
barians heard where they were, and came to beliege
them under the Command of Conſtantine. He pre-
fently ſummon'd the Greeks to ſurrender on pain of le-
vere uſage, if they gave him the trouble to take them
by Srorm. But the Thought, that they had the Im-
peria! Treaſures in their keeping, inſpired the Greeks
with
380
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. with more than uſual Courage, and they reſolu'd
2 264. to defend theinſelves to the laſt. They bury'd the
Pearls and precious Stones, and ply'd their_Bows with
incredible Fury, tho' with ſmall ſucceſs. The Infidels
came on them with freſh numbers, and tir'd them our
with their continual aſſaulis, animated equally by hopes
of ſharing the Plunder, and of delivering the Sultan.
Notwithſtanding all their Efforts the Greeks held our to
a Wonder, which made the Barbarians try once more
to get the Place by a Treaty: They threatend them as
before, if they gave them any further Trouble ; on the
contrary, if they deliver'd up the Sultan and the Trea.
ſures, none of them ſhould receive the leaſt Damage,
buc they thould all be at liberty to go where they
pleas'd.
The Romans offer'd to ſurrender the Fort, provided Como
ſtantine would ſwear to perform what Articles ſhould be
agreed on, which were, That the belieg'd ſhould re-
ceive no hurt, and that Fatbathines ſhould be deliverd
in ſafety. To which Conſtantine agreed, and the Biſhop
accompany'd by his Clergy went forth to take Conftan.
tine's Oath, who having ſworn to the Terms propos'd,
the Greeks immediately fent the Sultan with his Train
and Equipage to che Belieger's Camp, who preſently broke
up and march'd off without doing any Act of Hoſtility
to the Belieg'd.
The next Day the Imperial Galleys arriv'd, which
was a ſenſible Grief to the Greeks, who took up the
Treaſures they had bury'd, and embarking them aboard
che Galleys, fail'd to Conſtantinople.
Michael
Andronicuss Palæologus.
ANdronicus the Emperor's eldeft Son being grown to
Man's Eſtate, his Father look d out for a Wife for
him in Italy, but could not think of one that would be
proper. Charles of Anjou, who had Matter'd Naples and
Sicily, and conſequently had a powerful Influence over
the Italian Princes, was an invetçrate Enemy to the
Greeks,
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 381
Greeks, occalion'd by the expulſion of Baldwin the II. A. Da
and the French his Countrymen ; he therefore ſent to 1254.
Stephen the V. King of Hungary, whole Mother was
Daughter to the Old Laſcaris, to demand his Daughter
in Marriage for his Son. The Princeſs's Mother was of
no better condition than that of a Slave ; however be-
ing deſcended by her Grandmother from the Houſe of
Laſcaris, ſhe was thought to be the moſt honourable and
ſuitable Match for the yonng Prince. The Ambaſſadors
the Emperor choſe to go on this Errand to Hungary
were the Patriarch Germanus, and the Grand Duke
Brother to the Old Lafcaris, and Uncle to the Queen,
Grandmother to the Princeſs, who being ſo nearly re-
lated to the King of Hungary, was choſen to Negotiate
the Marriage, The Alliance was too honourable for the
Hungarian to make any ſcruple of it. The Princeſs
was ſent to Conſtantinople, and marry'd in the Church
of St. Sophia by the Patriarch Jofeph.
In November 1269 The Prince and Princeſs were 1269)
Crown'd Emperor and Empreſs; they had a ſeperate
Court and Officers allow'd them, and Andronicus was
permitted to have a gilt Scepter carry'd before him in
the Imperial preſence during Divine Service. He was
alſo allow'd to bear this Stile, Andronicus, by the Grace
of God, Emperor of the Romans. He took an Oath of
Fidelity to the Emperor his Father, after which the Cler-
gy, and the People acknowledg'd him to be Emperor,
and the Biſhops Excommunicated all thoſe that hould
conſpire againit his Life
Palæologus was afraid of bis Brothers, and of Fohn the
Deſpot particularly, both for the Reputation he had
acquir'd by his Valour, and for the Love the People
bore him, which created ſo much jealouſy in the two
Emperors, that they did what they could to leſſen his
Glory. The Chief Officers of his Houſe were taken
from him, with or without his content, as alſo the
Governments of the Ilands of Mitylene and Rhodes, and
the oppoſite Country on the Continent.
The Deſpor made his Court to the young Emperor John Palz-
with profound Reſpect and Submiſſion ; he condeſcend- ologus s
ed to wear his caſt Cloaths rather than his own, which Humility,
were Magnificent, and fitted him; he left off bis Bonet
Mining
382
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A.D. ſhining with Diamonds, and by the plainneſs of his Drefs
,
$269. affected to thew the Humility of his Manners.
Andronicus the Emperor's Siſter, Martha's Son, who
had marry'd the Daughter of John Deſpot of the Morea,
began now to form pernicious Deſigns, prejudicial tó
the Peace and Intereſt of the Empire. His Uncle bad
given him the Government of Adrianople, and the Neigh.
bouring Country as far as Mount Hemus, which not ſa-
tisfying his Ambition, he reſolvid to fly to his Father-in.
law, and the better to effect his eſcape, he call'd in the
Tartars, with whom he fled after , they had deſtroy'd
Thrace in a more barbarous manner than Conſtantine
King of Bulgaria had done before. The Emperor on
News of his flight, and of Folin's invading his Territo-
ries, rais'd a mighty Army of 60000 Men, reckoning
the Marines, and equipt the Imperial Navy to chaſtize
the Iriſolence of John and his Son-in-law. His Brother
the Deſpot Fobn commanded the Land Forces, and
Philantropenós the Maſter of the Horſe, the Fleet, con
fiſting of Seventy Ships ; the latter was order'd to
Cruiſe on the Coalts of Sicily and Italy, to prevent Suc.
cours coming to Fohn and Andronicus, and the Empe.
tor's Brother was to laad in the Morea, and to carry on
the War with them there. The News of John Paltologus's
arrival ſtruck ſuch Terror into the Peloponeſians, that they
fied from the open Country into the fortified Towns,
and ſurrender'd them as faſt as John came before them.
Fohn the Deſpor himſelf fled from Place to Place, the
Imperial Troops purſuing him every where, and ſeizing
thoſe Towns that they thought might harbour him. At
laft be threw himſelf into Patras, a City near the
inouth of the Gulf of Lepanto, which bad been lately
fortify'd. Palæologus hearing lie was there, haftend
thither and belieg'd the Place : He fummond the Inha-
bitants to ſurrender, to which John advis'd them to re-
turn a civil Anſwer, praying a few Days fuſpenſion of
Arms, and in the mean while they would endeavour to
do wliat he deſir'd of them. While they were thus im.
poſing on the Generál by a falſe Treatý, pretending to
feize Fohn and deliver him to the Greeks, the latter had
tecourſe to his Stratagems, and order'd himſelf to be
Jer down the City Walls diſguis'd like an Officer's
Groom. Thus he paſt through the Roman Camp, cara
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 383
ز
fying a Bridle in his Hand, and crying out to know if A.D.
any one had ſeen a ſtray Horſe, and if he would inform 1269
him of it, he ſhould be well rewarded. The Greeks
anſwering No ; ſome of them half affeep, and none of
them miltruſting the Deceit, he got quite through the
Camp, and eſcap'd to Thebes, no Body knowing, not even
in Patras it ſelt, excepe his Intimare Friends, whether he
was gone. There reign'd over Thebes at that Time a
Prince who lent him 300 Choſen Horſe, every Trooper
being able to command a Squadron on Occaſion ; with
theſe he poſted away to join what Forces he had left,
and making incredible Haite, came upon the Romans
unaware, attacke them, and put them into Confuſion.
They fell on the Auxiliary Turks firſt, and put tbem
into Diſorder. The Front of the Greek Army being
broken, the Rear broke of themſelves, threw down
their Arms, and fled, and neither Paleologus's Prayers,
Reproaches, or Threats could put a Stop to them: See-
ing every one thifted for himſelf, the General, to pre-
vent falling into the Eenemies Hands, let looſe his
Rein, and rode off as faſt as he could. The Rour was
univerſal, and thofe that eſcap'd in the Fight, were
kill'd in the Purſuit, except a few, whom the General He is de-
rally
d about him, and with whom he did
great Ser-feared by
the Pelos.
vice ſoon after. The Treaſures of the Greek Camp were
all a Spoil to the Victors, and the Fame of the Greek Em- poneſians
pire receiv'd an Affront, which was not thought the
would ſoon recover.
The Conquerors were ſo fluſht with their Succeſs,
that notwithſtanding their Fleet was not above a
Third Part in Number as many as the Grecks, yet they
boldly bore down upon them, and attackr them near
the Port of Demetriades. The General apprehending
what would be the Conſequence of the Defeat at Land,
haften’d to the Sea-ſide with what Troops he had ral-
ly'd, and in One Night march'd Two Days Journey.
The Fight was begun by the Time he got there ; the
Greeks were rang'd in Order of Batret, Ten by Ten;
Philantropenos in the biggeſt of the foremoſt Ten, bear-
ing the Imperial Scepter in his Flag, was ſo vigoroully
attackt by the Enemy, that he could not ſuſtain the
Shock: He receiv'd ſeveral Wounds, which were
thought mostal, and helpt to discourage his Men, who
i
384
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
1
.
A.D. were ſlain and drown'd in great Numbers. Palæologus,
3269. who ſtood on the Shoar, and ſaw that all Things were
going to wreck, held up his Hands, crying, Twas he
that was come to help them; that he had Strength
enough to recover all yer, if they would have Patience
and a little Courage. His Voice and Preſence puc
new Life in them, and they fought with Fury. The
General got ſome Barks, put ſome of his belt Soldiers
aboard, and exhorted them to ſupport the Fortune of
the Empire with all their Might ; but perceiving that
the Danger encreaſt, and that the more the Greeks re-
fifted they were only ſlain the more, he fell on his
Knees, and implor'd the Divine Alfiſtance, when all
Human Help avail'd notbing. The Enemy was carry.
ing off the Principal Ship of the Greek Fleet with the
Imperial Trophies in Triumph, which when Palæologus
ſaw, he reſolv'd to make the laſt Effort to raiſe the
Courage of the Romans : He threw his Bonnet to the
Ground, cover'd it with Duft, and conjur'd the Sol-
diers with Tears in his Eyes, not to leave the Enligns
of the Empire in the Hands of the Enemies : At the
fame Time he ſent them freſh Succours, which animat-
ed them ſo far, that they did Wonders, got the Victo.
ry, and took all the Enemies Ships, except Two or
Three, and moſt of their Soldiers who did not periſh
in the Fighr. After this Action the Imperial Fleer re.
turn'd home, where when Palæologus arrivd, he refus’d
to appear in the Emperor's Preſence with his Ornaments
as General, and when his Brother ſaw him dref like
a private Man, his Indignation at the Defeat at Land
was turn'd into Compaſſion for his Misfortunes, who
by his ſaving the Fleer, and his Modeſty after it, de-
ſerv’d more than Pity from the Emperor. The Sight
of the Enemies Fleet being brought into the Haven of
Conftantinople in Triumph, abated Palcologus's Grief
for the Loſs of his Land-Army, only he was very ſor-
rowful for the Danger of Philantropenos, whoſe Wounds
were thought to be mortal ; however by the Care and
Lord High Skill of his Surgeons he was cur’d, and in Reward of
Admirah bis Services made Grand Duke. John Paleologus laid
aſide the Enſigns of the Dignity of Deſpor, and when the
Emperor askt him, why he did ſo, he gravely reply'd,
That the Princes, his children, were now Men, and 'twas
nog
$
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 385
i
not fit that any one but they ſhould poljefs ſuch High Ho. A. D.
nours. By his Wiſdom and Modeſty he overcame 1269.
in a great Meaſure his Brother's Jealoulie, which other-
wiſe, conſidering the Temper of the Man, always impa-
tient of a Competitor, might have been Fatal to
him.
Charles of Anjou, whom we have before mention'd,
having routed and killd Manfred, King of Sicily, was 1270
put in Poffeffion of that Kingdom by Pope Clement IV.
and being at the Heighth of his Glory, undertook to
reſtore Baldwin to the Empire of Conſtantinople by Arms.
The Emperor was in no Condition to oppoſe him, his
his Forces by Sea and Land were weakned in the Palæolo-
Jare War with the Peloponeſians, for which Reaſon be
gus pro-
ſent Ambaſſadors to the Pope, who by their Flattery pores a Re-
and Perſuaſions prevail'd with him to interpoſe his Au- union of
thority, and hinder the Effuſion of Chriſtian Blood : the Greek
They propos'd a Union of the Greek Church with the word Latin
Latin, and drew up a Form of it; but Clement would Churches
nor conſent to that Form, he would have the drawing to the Pope
of it himſelf ; for it ſeems the Supremacy of the Biſhop
of Rome was not ſo fully acknowledg’d, as the Pride
of the Pope always requir'd it nould be, as one of the
firſt Articles of a Union. This project ſtuck thus a
little longer, and was afterwards put again in Agita-
tion.
Lepis IX, fild St. Lewis, King of France, was now
in Africa, laying Siege to the City of Tunis: Thither
Palæologus ſenc Beccus and Meliteniotes, Arch-Deacon of
the Palace, to Compliment him in their Malter's Name,
and to preſent him and his Courtiers with Plate and
other Treaſure, in Hopes to reconcile the Emperor to
the King of France, who was a Friend to Baldwin,
though not ſo ſtrict a one as his Brother Charles of An-
jou. They found the King very ill of the Diſeaſes,
which kill'd him the 25th of Auguſt. The Day before
bis Death he gave Audience to the Ambaſſadors, and al-
fur'd chem he would do his utmoſt to inediate a Peace
between their Maſter and his Brother, the King of Si-
cily, if it pleasd God to prolong his Life.
The Emperor underſtanding that Charles of Anjou
1271
continu'd his Preparations for War, at the ſame time
that he ſeem'd to comply with the Pope's Mediation for
1
Cc
Peace,
386
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIIT.
?
9
A. D. Peace, did the like at Conſtantinople: He repair'd the
3371. old Walls, built new, fill'd the City.with Proviſions of
all Sorts, and was ready to receive the Enemy if they
• offer'd to attack him; and fearing the Italians might
be ill Neighbours to bim'and his Poſteriry, if he did
not make a firm Peace with them, by uniting the Greek
Church with the Latin, he began to think of it in
Earneſt. He diſpatch'd the Biſhops of Sardis and Cy-
zicus to offer to unite the Eaſtern and Weſtern Churches,
and put an End to the Schiſm. He propos'd it to the
Patriarch and the Prelares, wbo believing it could never
cake Effect, few'd no Averfion to it, though they had
an Abhorrence of the Papal Tyranny, and deſpis'd the
Latin Clergy. Gregory X. was this Year in Syria, where
he had News of his being choſen Pope at Viterbo, and
immediately fent a Nuncio to the Emperor, to notifie
his Election, and to tell him, that if he defir'd a Reunion
with the Latin Church, he could never have a more fa-
vourable Opportunity than in his Pontificate. He re-
new'd the ſame Invitation by another Embaſſy from
Rome, after his Coronation. He choſe John Paraſtron, a
Greek, Native of Conſtantinople, who had conformid to the
Church of Rome, and reſided there, to go on this Meſa
fage, which Palæologus forwarded and favour'd to the
utmoſt of his Power: He flatter'd ſome of the Biſhops
promis's Favour to others, threaten'd thoſe thar he
found intenable of his Flattery and Promiſes, and try'd all
the Arts he could think of to diſpoſe the Greek Prelates.
to conſent to the Reunion.
3273 The Emperor having giv'n ſuch evident Proofs of his
voluntary or affected Inclination to ſubmit to the Church
of Rome, as the Head of all Churches, refolv'd to ſend
an Extraordinary Embaſſy to the Pope, to declare his
good Diſpoſition, and to perſuade him to defire Charles
of Anjou not to invade the Empire, which laſt Reaſon
hid more efficacy in his Submiſſions, than all thoſe
the Caluilts furniſht him with. As to the Patriarch 70-
feath, who had fucceeded Arfenius lately depos'd, he
Dufo inany Obligacions to him for his Abrolution and
coer Spiritual Favours, that he could not decently
break with him as he had done with his Predeceffor
fo he creared with him to come to Terms. He could no
langer diffemble his Intentions to comply with the
Pope's
1
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 387
!
:
Pope's Supremacy ; 'twas the Main Errand of the Em- A. D.
baffy, and he told Foſeph of it freely, giving him Leave to 1273.
recire to the Monaſtery of Periblepta, to enjoy his Revenue,
and have his Name continu'd in the Publick Prayers, till
he heard whether the Pope accepred of his Submiffion;
if he did, che Patriarch was to be contented with a
Penſion and a Monaſtick Life; if he did not, he was
to return to his Church, on Condition he forgave what
was paſt. Joſeph ſeeing he had no better Game to
play, retir’d into the Monaſtery the i Ith of January,
1273
The Empe-
fair Means and by Threars to prevail with the Clergy
ror zealous
to Comply; which proving ineffectual, he rais'da for the Re-
Cruel Perſecution againſt the True Greek Divines ; union.
ſome were Plunder'd, others Whipt, and others put to
Death; among whom was his Crearure Holobolus, who He perſe-
not carrying his Complaiſance as far as Palæologus cutes the
would have him, was baniſh'd to Nice, order'd back Orthodox
Greeks,
again, and Inhumanly Baftinado'd: The Emperor was
more provok'd with him than any of them ; for being
a Man of Heat and Spirit, he cry'd out on the firſt
Tokens of the Emperor's Diſpleaſure, that he ſuffer'd
this for his Loyalty to John Lafcaris, his Lawful So-
vereign. He was drawn about the Streets by a Rope tyd
to his Neck, and then hang'd. As bad Treatment had Fafi-
tus, Melias, and many more; as alſo Holobolus's Niece,
whom our of Malice he order'd ro be proſecured for
Witchcraft. The Clergy, to put a Scop.so his Ty.
ranny, the firſt Effects of his Popiſh Principles, peri-
tion'd that he would forbear his Execucions till News
came how his Ambaſſadors were reciv'd, and what was
derermin'd at Rome; he anſwer'd them roughly, All
thoſe that do not sign the Articles of Peace and Reunion, The Greek
hall ſuffer as Traitors to the State ; and he put forth an
Edict, requiring all Eccleſiaſticks ta fign them, with fore'' to
this Reſtriction, that they might go down the eafier, ſubscribe to
That they did not own the Latin Symbol, but the the Pope's
Pope's Supremacy ; with which moſt of the Clergy Supremacy,
comply'd.
I muſt now leave my Author Pachymerus, who gives
a ſhort Account of the Ambaſſadors Voyage to Rome, of
the Peril, they were in at Sea by a Storm, their Recep-
Cc a 2
tion
Clergy
1
.:
388
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII,
!
at the
ment all
A. D. tion by the Pope, who preſented them with Tiara's,
1273: Miters, Rings, and Abundance of Cheap Apoſtolical
The Greek Trinkers; but he takes no Notice of the Great Buſio
Embou neſs they went about, to aſſiſt at the Council of Lyons,
dors alist held on the 7th of May 1274. at which ſome Authors erro-
neouſly affirm Paleologus affifted in Perſon. The Roman
Council of
Hiſtorians write, that the Patriarch of Conſtantinople
Lyons.
1274
was preſent, which is alſo falſe ; for Foſeph was in
Avertiſſe- the Monaſtery of Periblepta, and Beccus was not choſen
till 71!ne 1275.
We ſhall relate wbat paſt at the
Mr. Coul- Council of Lyons, with Reference to the Reunion, as
fin, V1. 10. we took'it from a Romiſo Author.
De 1 Hi-
Pope Gregory declar'd to the Fathers, That contrary
stoire du
to the Expectation of all the World the Greeks were come
Conſtanti-voluntarily to make their Submiſſions to the Church of
hople.
Rome, to confeſs the ſame Faith, and acknowledge her
Supremacy without requiring any Temporal Advantage,
(a Condition which was very much ſuſpected). The
Ambaſſadors came to Lyons, and preſented the Empe-
rors Letter to the Pope, containing A Profeſſion of
Faith, as Pepe Clement IV. had drawn it up for him to
ſign. The Greek Biſhops in their Letter mention'd the
Patriarch's refuſing to acknowledge the Pope's Supremacy,
which they acknowledg’d, and promis’d to ſubmit to the
Holy See, as their predeceſſors ſubmitted to it before the
Schiſm. Acropolitus made the Confeſſion of Faith in the
Emperor's Name ; the Envoy deputed by the Biſhops did
it in their Name ; after phich Te Deum was ſung. The
Pope wrote to the Emperor to teſtifie his Foy at this Agree-
The Emperor and Beccus, then Patriarch of
Conftantinople, wrote to the Pope a very obliging An-
fwer.
Such was the Mock-Reconciliation of the Greek and
The Tmo Roman Churches, which Schiſm had laſted from the
Churches Pontificate of Sergius I. A. D. 687, to that of Gre.
#nited's
gory X. Anno 1274. in all 587 Years : Bur this Reu-
1274
nion being forc'd, and only ihe Reſult of Paleologus's
Fears of a French Invaſion,' laſted no longer than thoſe
Fears, which ended with his Life. We fee how ready
the Pope has been in all Ages to catch at Power, lo
fond of it, that when he could not come at the Sub-
ſtance, he has contented himſelf with the Shadow ;
and we cannot but obferve how Fatal the French Name
bas
ment.
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 389
1
has been from Ancient Times to the True Religion and A. D.
Pure. Worſhip of Chriſt. 'Twas a French King that 1274.
firſt ſet up the Papal Tyranny ; 'were French Uſurpers
that rais d a Popith Party in the Church of Conftantino-
ple; and the preſent Maſter of the French Dominions
deſtroy'd the moſt Flouriſhing Part of the Reform’d
People of Europe. We may ſee in the Hiſtory of Mi-
chael Paleologus, how far the Fears of a French Power
influenc'd him to comply with Idolatry, and we have
all Cauſe to praiſe God, who has ſo far bleft the Arms
of our Pious and Victorious Queen, that no ſuch Fear's
remain among us to corrupt the Purity of our Chri-
itian Faith. We hope the Reader will excuſe this Di.
greffion, which being the Natural Reflexions thar we
made in writing this Hiſtory, we could not forbear
giving them a Place in it.
Upon the Return of the Ambaſſadors from the
Council of Lyons, the Biſhops prepar'd ro chuſe a new
Patriarch ; for fofeph was look'd upon as an Abdicated
Prelate. The Reunion being made, he was according
to the Terms agreed on between himn and the Empe-
ror, to reſign his See, and retire into a Monaſtery.
He expected his Depoſition as ſoon as he heard of the
Agreement at Lyons, and remov'd from the Monaſtery
of Periblepta to tbar of Laura, near Anaples, to ſpend
the reſt of his Days in Tranquillity and Devorion.
On the 16th of January, Nicholas, Arch-Biſhop of Chal-The Latin
cedon, officiating in his Pontificalia in the Chapel of the service
Imperial Palace, the Epiſtle taken out of the Aas offung in
the Apofles, and the Goſpel, were ſung in Greek and Conftanti-
Latin, and Pope Gregory was proclaim d by the Deacon tople.
Sovereign Pontiff of the Apoftolick Church, and Occuince
nical Pope. Which Action tranſported our Author in- Pachyni.
to a violent Paffion of Reſentment, Prophetically de-
claring the Fall of the Greek Church, which had been
fhaken firſt by the Schiſm occafion'd by Arfenius's De.
poſition, and now by the Scandalous Compliance of the
Court. Prelates, with the Latin Church, the Averſion
of the Greek Chriſtians.
To ſupply the Place of Fifeph, the Bithops pitch'd
upon the Patriarch of Anticch ; bue underſtanding Becu
cus would be more acceptable to the Emperor, he was
elected Patriarch the 20th of May 1275,
1247
Cc
L.
390
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
1
A.D.
1275.
Paleologus, as ſoon as he had effected the Reunion in
this Manner at Conſtantinople, fent Ambaſſadors to the
Pupe, to notifie what he had done, and to pray him to
interpoſe in the Quarrel between him and Charles of
Anjeu, who was ſtill preparing for a War, and deſir'd
Leave of the Pope to reſtore Baldwin to his Dominions;
but his Holineſs, in Gratitude to the Greek Emperor for
his late Submiſſions, poſitively forbad him to invade
Paleologus's Territories.
The Emperor continuing to prevaricate with Con-
ftantine, King of Bulgaria, about the Surrender of
Meſembria and Anchialus, Queen Mary, his Wife, was ex
treamly enrag'd at it. She had a son whom the in-
tended to Crown during his Father's Indiſpoſition, and
would have had thoſe Two Cities deliver'd to her for
Michael the Young Prince's Uſe, but ſhe had not In-
tereft enough in the Court of Conſtantinople to effect it.
Her Mother Eulogia, who had ſo long been the Reign-
ing Favourite, had loſt the Emperor's Love by openly
refuſing to Communicate with the new Patriarch, and
prorecting the new Schiſmaticks; and the Queen of
Bulgaria ſent to the Patriarch of Jeruſalem, a profeft
Enemy to the Reunion, to excite him to promote the
Schiſm, and to the Sultan of Syria to animate hiin to
take Arms againſt the Emperor. The former promisºd
to do all that in hiin lay towards the deſtroying of the
Reunion, but the Sultan refus'd to make War on the
Empire, not knowing who chefe Bulgarians were, whom
The affur'd him ſhould join with the Turks in it. The
Queen notwithſtanding Crown'd her Son while Con-
ftantine, her Husband, was yer living; which the
Deſpot Venceſlaus, who had Pretenſions to the Succeſ
fion, hearing, he began to have ſome Jealoufie of the
Queen's Proceedings, and to provide for himſelf. To
footh him ſhe invited him to her Court, promiſing to
adopt him. He came thither, and was accordingly
adopted ; but ſoon after the found Means to make away
with bim.
In the Year 1279, Pope Nicholas, either to pleaſe
Peter, King of Arragon, or to cajole the Greek Empe-
ror, enter'd into a Conſpiracy with the Arragonian,
who had marry'd the Daughter of Manfred, the Baſtard
King of Sicily, to diſpoileſs the French of that Iland.
The
3278
1
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 391
The Reſult of this Conſpiracy was the Sicilian Vel- A. B.
pers, which happen'd in the following Year. In this 12790
the Young Emperor Andronicus was ſent into the Eaſt
to make Head againſt the Turks. When he came to the
Banks of the Meander, he was ſo charm'd with the Si-
tuation of the Country, that ſeeing the Ruins of the
City Tralles in Lydia, he reſolv'd to rebuild it with
extraordinary Magnificence, and to call it Andronico-
polis. Workmen were order'd to come in from all
Parts; and he was encourag'd in this Undertaking by
an Inſcription found on a Marble Scone dug up, con-
taining a Prophecy, that a certain Prince mould raiſe
Tralles out of her Ruins; which Prince was inter-
1280
preted to be Andronicus. By the next Summer the
Town was built, and Thirty-lix Thouſand Inhabitants
were plac'd in ir ; who were ſuddenly belieg'd by the
Turks, under the Command of Mantachy, a Famous Ge-
neral among the Infidels. The Citizens of this new Ci-
ty were ſoon reduc'd to the laſt Streights, and in the
end taken by Storm, and put to the Sword.
Conſtantine Porphyrogenitus, Palæclegus s Second Son,
was ſent into Servia to make his firſt Campaign. One
Cotonizus had rebell'd, and invaded the Empire as far
as the Gates of Serres ; on the Approach of the Young
Prince the Rebel ſubmitted on Promiſe of Pardon,
which Porphyrogenitus could not obtain for him, not-
withſtanding he had giv’n him his Oath and Honour,
unleſs Cotonizus would curn Monk; which he did to
ſave his Life or his Eyes.
The next Year the youag Emperor return'd out of the 128
Eaſt, and the Turks committed horrible Wait on this Side
the Sangarus ; of which Palæologus baving Information,
he levy'd as many Trcops as he could get together,
and part over into Phrygia with all poſſible Diligence.
When he ſaw the Deſolation of the Country, ſo far dif.
ferent from the Flouriſhing Condition was in when in
his younger Days he was Governor of Aſia, he could
hardly forbear tearing the Hair of his head, being eri-
şag‘d to think that he ſhould ſuffer himſelf to be ſo long
impos d on by the Governors, who either out of Nego
ligence or Avarice had kept the fad State of thoſe Pro:
yinces from his knowledge: He was inconſolable, som
faſing all manner of Diverſions, and giving on the
Сс
courice
1
392
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. courſeſt Dier that was brought him. The Turks retreat-
ed as he approach'd near them, but wanting Proviſions
he could not purſue them far into their own Territories:
So having fortify'd his Frontiers, repair’d the Old Forts,
and built New, he march'd back to Prufa, where he
underſtood ibat his Ambaſſadors at Rome, Leo, Biſhop
of Heraclea, and Theophanes, Biſhop of Nice, had been
ill us'd there by Pope Martin IV. Pope Nicholas's Suc-
ceffor.' This Pontiff was a Frenchman, and believ'd
nothing of the Sincerity of the Reunion. The Latins
had heard of the True Diſpoſition of the Greeks, that
the pretended Peace was Deceit and Impofture, and that,
except the Patriarch and a few more of his Opinion,
there was no Body who heartily eſpous'd it, the reſt
abhorring it as an impious Novelty which was impos'd
on the Greeks by Bonds and Blood. Some Authors
write, that the Pope excommunicated the Emperor
and his Adherents for their Double dealing ; whether
he proceeded to Fulminations or not, we cannot de-
termine; 'lis certain the Ambaſſadors were diſmiſt very
rudely; and Paleologus being at Church, after the
Palæolo-
News of this Treatment came to Pruſa, forbad the
gus repeurs Deacon to pray for the Pope. He repented of his Com-
of the Reu-pliance with the Latins, inclin'd to break the Peace,
xion. and re-eſtablith the Patriarch, The Pope then reign-
ing was in the Intereits of Charles of Anjou, and for
thar Reafon he look'd more narrowly into the Mock-
Reconciliation than his predeceſſor:
In the Beginning of this Reign the City of Dyrrachi-
um was deſtroy'd by an Earthquake; the Illyrians
ſince that had rebuilt it, and thrown off their Depen.
dance on the Empire, entring into an Alliance with
Charles of Anjou, who had pofleit himſelf of the Fort
of Canina, in the Neighbourhood of tbai City, in this
manner; Michael, the Deſpot of the We had yielded
up the Fort to' Philip Amir, with the Illand of Corfou,
as a Marriage-Portion with his Sifter-in-Law, Widow
of his Brother Francis ; he afterwards got him to be
Treacheroully murder'd, and would have had the Ford
and and again, but the Italians being Mafters there,
choſe rather to deliver both in Charies of Anjou, who
was glad to have it in his Pofleffion, hoping to make
the Forta Flace commodious for his invading the Em-
:
peror's
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 393
.
ز
peror's Dominions. He fortify'd it ; and the Revolt A.D.
of the Illyrians encourag'd him mightily in his Deſigns 1281.
on the Empire, and haſtep'd the Execution of them.
He was heartily vex'd that Paleologus by his Submiſ-
fions had hitherto got the Pope on his Side, but now he
reſolv'd to begin the War, hearing there was no good
Underſtanding between the Courts of Rome and Conſtan.
tinople, and being tempted to it by the Rebellion of
the Illyrians. He embark'd 3000 Horſe and Foot ac
Brundufium, under the Command of a Famous Captain,
Solyman Rofs, whom he order'd to land at Canina, and
then invade Macedonia, not doubting but they would
preſently make themſelves Maſters of Thesſalonica ; ſo
very ſure were the Officers of this Conqueft, that they
were diſputing about dividing the Plunder before the
Town was beſieg'd.
They firſt attackt Belgrade, ſeated on an Eminence,
His War
at the Bottom of which runs the River, Afene; they with
poſted themſelves on a Hill oppoſite to the Fort, and
Charles of
began to ſap the Walls of Belgrade: By the Progreſs
Anjou, ko
of the Siege at the Beginning 'twas expected they would of Sicily
foon be Maſters of the Fort, which however fell out
contrary to every Body's Expectation.
The Emperor was very uneage on the News of this
Siege; he knew the Nature of the Italians, who were
invincible if they ſucceeded at firſt, otherwiſe they
were the leaſt to be fear'd of any People in Europe. To
put a Stop to them in the Beginning, he ſent Michacl
the Deſpot, his Son-in-Law, Michael Tarcaniołus, the
Grand Domeſtick, Föhn Syngdenes, the Grand Strato-
pedarque, and Andronicus Oenopolitus, with a good Body
of Men to repel the Italians, defiring them to pur their Chief
Truſt in God, and fear nothing ; Publick Prayers and Fudge of
Solemn Proceſſions were made to implore the Divine the soldiery
Bleſſing on the Emperor's Arms: The Patriarch and Six
Biſhops, array'd in Robes adorn'd with Stars, gave the
Benediction to the Oil, a Ceremony much us'd
on ſuch tision of
th
Occafions by the Greeks; after which ſeveral little Pa-
pers were dipt in the Holy Oil, pur into Glaſſes, and
diſtributed among the Soldiers, to fortifie them againſt
the Enemy. The Grand Domeſtick, who commanded
the Forces, having receiv'd his laſt Inſtructions, ha-
itend away to Macedonia, where he march'd up to the
Enemy
The Super-
:
394
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII
!
A. D. Enemy, who ſtill lay before Belgrade, and were ſa
1281. ſtrongly encampd, that the General did not think i
adviſeable to attack them ; however he reſolv'd to
throw a Convoy of Proviſions into the Fort, which So.
lyman perceiving, he march'd out of his Camp at the
Head of a Body of Horſe to hinder the Romans ſupply.
ing the Beſieg'd with Neceſſaries. The Italians began
the Ingagement with their ulual Fierceneſs, and repelld
the Romans a little at the Onſet, but the latter retiring
to a.Place more convenient for chem, rally'd on the Ita-
lians, and Solyman's Horſe being wounded, flung him,
by which Means he was taken Priſoner, to the great
Joy of the Romans, and the Terror of the Italians. The
Grand Domeſtick, to improve the Confternation the
Enemy were in on the Loſs of their General, fell on
them in their Camp early the next Morning, the Ro.
mans carrying in their Hands the Conſecrated Papers.
A Party was order'd to attack them in the Rear, while
the General charg'd them in the Front, which was done
with ſuch Fury, that the Latins were foon put in
Confufion, and almoft all of them kill'd or taken. The
the Italie Italians were moſt Troopers, and heavy arm’d, which
ens routed. was a Diſadvantage to them in their Retreat. The
common Soldiers were put to the Sword, and only the
Officers carry'd into Bellgrade. After the Rout the
Greeks ſcour'd the Country, and brought in what Strag.
lers they pick’d up, who could not reach the Fort
of Canina. Theſe and the Officers were convey'd
to Conſtantinople, where the Victors made their
Triumphal Entry, and the Priſoners were led in Chains
after them to Grace their Triumph. The Emperor
had a Scaffold erected in the Palace of Blacherne for
him, to ſee the Cavalcade. The Victory was painted
on the walls of his Palace, with the other Victories
God had bleſt bim with ; and the Greeks began to make
off their Fears of the Italians, finding by lare Experi-
ence that they were to be conquer’d.
John Deſpot of the Morea having broken the Trea-
7982 ties he had Solemnly ſworn to, and made Inroads into
Thrace, Paleologus invited the Tartars to his Affifiance,
for which he was very much blamd, the Tartars being
Infidels, and where-ever they came they treated the
Country as that of an Enemy, thinking every Thing
Was
i
i
Chap. VIII. Mich. Andron. Palæologus. 395
:
1
was lawful Booty which they took from the Chri- A. D.
Itians.
1282
In November the Emperor ſet out to put bimſelf ar
the Head of the Troops that were to act againſt John :
The Empreſs pray'd him with great Earnettneſs not to
go on this Expedition, being at the ſame Time in an
ill State of Health ; but, though the Winter Seaſon was
advancing, he expected ſuch great Things from his
Auxiliary Tartars, that he would not be perſuaded to
Itay at Home. His Sons and Sons-in-Law attended
him. He rode as far as Seiybrium, but his Diftempers
increaſing, he could not travel any farther on Horſe-
back, ſo he and his Attendance went aboard a Galley,
reſolving to go by Sea to Rodoſtus. As ſoon as he was
got aboard, he heard of the Arrival of the Tartars on
his Frontiers, which made him impatient to proceed,
though all that ſaw him imagin'd, by the Condition he
was in, that the Succeſs of his Enterprize would not
anſwer the Fatigue he put himſelf to about it. In his
Paſſage to Rodoſtus he met with a Storm, which threa-
tend him and his Followers with preſent Death: He
call'd the Pilot to him, and told him, He had the Charge
of an Empire aboard, which mould animate him to do his
utmoſt. The Pilot anſwer'd, Ihat his Art was inef-
feétual, and all their Hope muſt be in the Divine Prote.
ition. After they had a long while been toſt by the
Winds and Waves, they reach'd the Port of Rodoſtus,
all of them half dead with Fear; they ftay'd there a
few Days to refreſh, and then mounting on Horſeback,
rode towards Lijmachia ; at a Village near that City
the Emperor was taken ſo ill, he was forc'd to keep his
Bed, and the Signs of Death appear'd viĝbly upon him.
He was extreamly griev'd that he could not meet the
His laſt
Tartars, who were on the Borders; and to encourage Sickneſi
their Ambaſſadors he did whatever he could to appear
well when he gave them Audience: But Deach was
coming upon him, and the Place of it was the more
remarkable, being near Pachomium, the Houſe of
George the Grammarian, whoſe Eyes he had unjuſtly
caus'd to be pluckt out. His Phyſicians durft not tell
him of his Danger: They told Andronicus, the Empe-
ror's eldeſt Son, that his Father had but a few Hours
to live: He was as much afraid to carry ſuch unwel.
CO1ne
396
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
.
A. D. come News to him as the Phyſicians ; fo he order'd a
1282. Prieſt to attend him with the Sacraments, which was
the moſt cender Way he could think of to warn him of
his approaching End.
The Prieſt dreſt in his Veſtments came to the Em.
peror's Bed-Gide, whoſe Face was turn'd to the Wall,
he being, as uſual, thinking of the Affairs of his Go
vernment, and had as much Vigour of Mind as ever:
The Mook faid nothing, waiting with his Holy Of.
ferings till the Emperor turn'd about, and ask'd him,
Who he was? The Prieſt anſwer'd, That having pray'd
for his Health, he had brought him the Sacraments
, ,
which would contribute to reſtore it to him. The Em-
peror interrupting him, bad him give him his Girdle
,
lifted himſelf up in his Bed, ſaid the Creed, adding to
it, Deliver me, O Lord, from this Hour ! He then
receiv'd the Sacrament, laid down, pray'd to God,
His Death, and expir'd the Eleventh of December 1282, in the
Fifty Eighth Year of his Age, and the Twenty Fourth
of his Reign; the Tenth of Rodolphus I. Emperor of
Germany ; the Eleventh of Edward I. King of Eng-
land; the Thirteenth of Philip the Bold, King of France;
and the Fourteenth of the Pontificate of Pope Mar-
tin IV.
His Cher
The Character of this Prince is a Mixture of Vir-
Filter. tues and Vices, of good Qualities and bad ones : He
was Brave, Liberal, and Politick, but withal Cruel,
Inconftant, and a Diffembler : He lov'd Magnificence
in his Court, and Buildings : His Zeal for the Reunion
was the Effect of his Apprehenſions of a French Inva-
fion: He was no Religious Obſerver of his Word, nor
can we much commend hiin for his Chaſtity ; howe-
ver take him as he was a Prince, and not as he was a
Chriſtian, his Victories over the Infidels, his Care of
the Government, his Indefatigableneſs in minding the
Afairs of the State, deſervedly acquir'd him the Title
of Great, at a Time when the Roman Empire was alo
inoit in the laſt Agony.
.
Andros
Chap. VIII. Andronicus II.
I
397
Andronicus II.
i
A. DI
ON the Death of the Emperor Michael Palæologus,
his Son Andronicus II. whom he had before Ho. 1282->
nour'd with the Imperial Stile, fucceeded him in the
Throne. He was very much Embarraſt in the be-
ginning of his Reign, by the Tartars, who' lov'd Plun-
der and Waft too well, to return without doing ſome-
thing: If the Romans would not find them Enemies, they
were ſo us'd to Rob and Spoil, that there was no like-
lihood of their going Home without doing Miſchief to
others, and Enriching themſelves. The Emperor was
Young, ſcarce Twenty Five Years of Age, when he
came to the Crown; and ſuch a Difficulty as this was
enough to puzzle him, had he' been an experienc'd
Stateſman. His chief Councellor was Theodore Muzalo,
lately made Lord Chancellor, who advis’d him to give
the Command of the Auxiliary Tartars, to Tarconiotus,
whom he made Great Conſtable; and that of the Ro-
mans to Michael the Deſpot. He preſented the Tartars
with rich Gifts, and ſent them with the Deſpot and the
Conſtable out of his Dominions to ſeek for Booty.
He wrote to the Patriarch to notifie his Father's
Death, and to recommend him to take Care of the
Peace of the City, alſo to make his Compliments of the Empe-
Condoleance to the Empreſs his Mother. This Letter ror's són
was written in a Hand ſo like Palæologus's, that thoſe revokes the
who knew it beſt could not diſtinguiſh the one from the 'Re-union,
other, but by a little Punctum at the end of one of the
Letters. A few Days after Andronicus return'd to Con-
ftantinople, and the firlt thing he took into Conſiderati-
on was the State of the Church, which was in ſuch Con-
fiſion, that he could not think of it without Horror:
His Aunt Eulogia gave him very plauſible Reaſons for
revoking all that had been done in his Father's Reign,
towards a Reconciliarion ; and he was of himſelf very
well inclin'd to aboliſh it. Some Writers affirin, He
had ſuch an Abhorrence of the Submillions his Farlier
had forc'd him to make to the Pope, that afrer Palæolo.
gus's Death, his Body was left unbury'd. Tho' what they
fay
398
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII .
!
A. D. ſay is, with little appearance of Truth, for Pachy.
1282
merus writes, That it was Bury'd in the Monaſtery of
Selybrium, over againſt the Tomb of the Emperor Bafilius
Bulgarotonus. Andronicus excus'd the Seperatifts, and pro-
telted he was ready to endure any Pennance that could
be impos’d on him, for his own Conformity. Eulogia
and Mulazo, beſides their Zeal for the old Religion,
and againſt the Popiſh Innovations, were animated by
a Spirit of Revenge, to affront the Memory of the late
Emperor.
The Emperor's Arms were ſucceſsful in Thrace, Uma
Steward of percopulus Curopalatus defeated 15000 Scythians, who
Steward of had made an Incurſion into that Province. In the fol
the Flou-
fbold.
lowing Year Andronicus marry'd Irene, Daughter to the
1284 Marquiſs of Montferrat, who was Crown'd by the Pa-
triarch ; and ſome cime after, went to the Fort of Dao
cibazus to viſit Fohn Laſcaris, whom he careſt in a very
John Laf high degree; which tho' it made very little amends for
caris offers the loſs of bis Empire and his Eyes, torn from him by
to refign. Palxologus; yet it ſo pleas'd the young Prince, that he
the Empire conſented to his enjoying the Sovereign Power, and of-
to Andro-fer'd to Congrm it authentickly whenever he was re.
micus,
quir'd to do it.
The Turks being again Troubleſome in Aſia, Conſtan.
tine Porphyrogenitus was ſent thither to obſerve them,
which he did, and defeared them in ſeveral Rencounters:
He had marry'd a Daughter of Raoul, related to ſome
young Nobleman that was barbarouſly us'd by Palæolo-
gus, for oppoſing the Reunion. And as Mr. du Freſne
writes in his Hiſtoria Byzantina, was deſign'd by his
Father firſt to be King of Macedonia, and afrerwards
to be his Succeffor ; but to prevent the Troubles that
might ariſe by diſinheriting Andronicus, he permitted
60000
the Succeſſion to go to his eldett Brother. However he
Marks of left hin ſuch vaft Treaſure, as enabled him by his
Gold a
Bounty, to preſerve the number of Friends which his
Merit had acquir’d. His Popularity was not lik’d by
3291 the Emperor, and there are never wanting on ſuch oc-
caſions, Court Flatterers, to incite Jealoulie and beger
Averfion. Pachymerus, ſays, Thar the riſe of Conſtan.
tinc's Troubles, ſprung from his Vindicating an Affront
which his Wife fancy'd he had receiv'd from one of the
Princeſſes of the Court who had a Gallanr, whom Por.
phyrogenicus
;
Tear.
Chap. VIII.
399
Andronicus II:
phyrogenitus causid to be ſeiz’d, ſtript, and led Naked A. D.
thro the Streets; which he did by his own Authority, 1291
and was an Act of Preſumption that Andronicus very
much reſented. From that time he began to look on
him with Indifference, which in rime grew to Enmity,
and that ended in the Prince's Ruin. The Courriers
were always informing againſt him and Michael
Strategopulus, Maſter of the Wardrobe, his Friend and
Companion. They told the Emperor he ſaid he would
depoſe the Patriarch, and that he fat up whole Nights
with Strategopulus, wbich they ſpent in Treaſonable Con-
fultations. The Emperor was bimſelf in Afia when he
receiv'd this faral News. He Summond his Friends a-
bout him, and gather'd bis Troops together as if his
Perſon was in Danger, and then order'd Conſtantine to
attend him, as alſo his Companion Strategopulus. The
Senate were preſent when they appear'd, and as ſoon as
Andronicus faw them, he Curft and Swore, and ſaid
thus in a Rage. Te Villains, have you forgot my Favours,
and do you Conſpire to deſtroy your Maſter and Brother.
He would not give them time to make their Defence,
buc immediately order'd them to be Confind, and their
Goods ſeiz'd. Strategopulus was the Son of Alexius
who took Conſtantinople, whoſe Heir was thus Reward-
ed for the Service his Facher had done the Houſe of
Paleologus: Conſtantine pur on the Habit of a Monk,
calld himſelf Athanafius, and liv'd a Rcligious Life till
the Year 1306. when that and his Troubles ended coa
gether. While the Emperor was abfent, a great part
of the City of Conſtantinople was conſum'd by Fire,
but before he return'd, the Houſes were Rebuilt with
more Beauty and Magnificence than he left them.
Two Years after the Emperor aſſociated his eldeſt
Son Michaei with him in the Empire, and on the
22d of May, he created his young Son John, Deſpot.
Alexius Phylantropenus was made Governor of Aſia
Minor; and Libadarius of Neocaftrum. The former
was very ſucceſsful againſt the Turks, and by his Libe-
ralicy and great Actions, had got the love of the Army,
which was numerous; and by their Spoils were become
fo Rich, that the General and the Soldiers began to be
uncalie under any other Government, and to foron un-
lawful Deſigns, which they hid under a few of extra-
ordinary
>
400
A
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII
129 1
Rebellion
A. D. ordinary Obedience. Phylantropenus deſir'd to be re-
call'd from Aſia, to prevent any Suſpicion at Court,
Alexius that he intended to do any Miſchief there. In the mean
Phylan-
time Tarcafonan, Abbot, and Acropolitus, his Wive's Un.
tropenus cle, haften'd his declaring againſt Andronicus, by re-
raiſes a
preſenting the Danger he ran of being Deſtroy'd by
in Afia. the Emperor's Jealouſie and Vengeance. The Soldiers
were unanimous in their Revolt, and Phylantropenus hav.
ing made a Factious Speech to the Army, full of Ree
flections on the Emperor and bis Miniſters, on their
Softneſs and Male-adminiſtration, at the ſame time high-
ly commending their own Valour and Exploirs. They
anſwer'd with loud Acclamations, That they would
Live and Die by him, and forc'd him, who indeed was
of himſelf very well Diſpos'd to it, to accept of the
Sovereign Authority. However he would not affume
the Imperial Title and Ornaments, tho' they preſs d
him very hard to do it. The Turks in hopes of Plun.
der, or out of Affection to Phylantropenus, who had
been a very generous Enemy to them, came flocking in
to him. The neighbouring Country was terribly
Frightend with apprebenſion of the Fury of ſuch a tu-
multuous Multitude. The Emperor's Name was not
heard of, among them, but to Curſe him or Rail at him.
Phylantropenus commanded the Clergy under his Power,
not to Pray for him, but to inſert his Name in the Place
of the Emperor's, in their publick Prayers. He took
from them their Goods to diſtribute them among
Soldiers, and the Prieſts durft not Complain for fear of
worſe Ulage.
The firft Act of Hoſtility commitred by Phylantion
penus, was the ſeizing Theodore, the Emperor's Brother,
who was then in Aſia, and fending him Priſoner to Ephe-
fus. He then march'd to Nymphea, and gather'd what
number of Horſes he could procure together, to mount
his Infantry on them, in order to fall upon Libadarius,
Governour of Neocaftrum, the only Man he fear'd of ail
the Roman Governours in Afia. Libadarius continu'd
firm in the Emperor's Intereſts, yet fearing he had not
Strength enough to oppoſe him, he was loath to venture
a Barcel, which would be of very fatal conſequence if it
did not prove ſucceſsful. For Aſia would then be en.
tirely ſubjected to the Ulurper; and Europe expos'd to
The
his
+
-
/
341
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus II
.
were
the Inſults of the Rebels. For chefe Reaſons he refolu'd A. D.
to oppoſe Stratagem to Power, and wait a better op-
1291
portunity to reduce the Uſurper. The Candicts, who
a' conſiderable part' of Phylantropenus's Forces,
diſtruſting that his refuſing to aſſume the Imperial Ti-
ile and Ornaments, was to leave a way open for a Re.
conciliation with the Emperor, which would expoſe
them to bear alone the weight of Andronicus's Vengeance,
were diſguſted with their General, and contriv'd to pro-
vide for their own Safery, by making their Peace bec
fore him. Libadarius underſtanding what Diſpoſition
they were in, treated with them privately to ſeize and
deliver up the Uſurper. Cortazus, Captain of the
Candiots, was prevail'd upon by Promiſes of Pardon and
Reward to undertake ic. Libadarius was to advance
towards Nymphea with the Troops under his Command,
and the Candiots to apprehend Phylantropenus juſt as he
was preparing to attack the Imperialiſts; which would
throw the Rebels into ſo great a Confternation, thar
cwould be eaſie for Libadarius to rout them. As ſoon
as that General appeard, and the Ulurper bad drawn up
his Army in Battalia, the Candiots ſurrounded Plylan-
tropenus. Soine took hold of his Horſe's Bridle, others
of his Sword, and others took him from his Horſe and
carry'd him bound to Libadarius; at which the Rebels
were ſo confounded, that ſuſpecting the Treaſon among
them was general, they fled, and Libadarius ſending out
Parties to purſue them, moſt of them were Cur to Pieces
And is
Phylantropenus's Eyes were pluckt out, and his principal Elindeks
Abettors were Puniſh d in the ſame manner.
The News of the Revolt and of the ſuppreſſion of 1299
it, came to Conſtantinople within fix Days time. A1-
dronicus at the firſt hearing of ir, was ſo ſurpriz'd, that
tie ſent away Orders to Libadarius, to offer the Ufur-
per the Title of Cæfar if he would ſubmit ; bur before
theſe Orders came, the Rebels were diſperís d, and
Phylantropenus in Chains; which was the more welcome
News to the Court of Conſtantinople the more it was
ſudden and unexpected.
In the mean while a War broke out between the Goa
in neſe and the Venetians, in which the latter took ſeveral
Ships belonging to Andronicus's Subjects, and were lo
bold as to attack the Genoeſe in Galata under the Empes
Dd
tor's
342
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIIT.
A. D. ror's Juriſdiction, to Plunder them and ſet Fire to their
1291. Honfes. The Emperor complain'd of it to the Senate,
and receiving no Satisfaction, order'd all the Effects of
the Venetians, throughout his Territories, to be confil.
Cated for the Payment of Fourſcore Thouſand Crowns,
the amount of the Loſs the Romans and Genoefe had ſu-
ftain'd. Belides this the Genoeſe fell upon the Venetians,
Te Vene-
and maſſacred them wherever they met them in Conſtan-
tians Olaf-
Flered in tinople; Whether the Emperor was privy to it, we can
Conſtanti-rot decide, 'tis not likely that the Italians durſt have
nople by done ſuch a bloody Deed in his Imperial Seat, withour
the Ge- his Conſent. However he fenc two Monks to excuſe
noare. the Mafiacre to the Senate; who when they arriv'd at
Aquilear, were like to have been Murder'd by the Rela-
tions of thoſe Venetians that had been Maſſacred at Con-
ftantinople. The Senate for Satisfaction, demanded the
reſtitution of the confiſcated Goods, which Andronicus
refus'd to reſtore, being in no fear of any Diſturbance
by the l'enetians, for whom the Genoeſe were then more
than a Match; and alledging his Subjects and Allies had
fuffer d more by them, than the value of the confiſcared
Goods amounted to.
The Affairs of the Eaſt declining every Year more and
more, Tarcaniotus paſt over to Afir with an Army, and
by his Vigilance and Valour, compos'd the Diſorders of
the Provinces, clear d them of the Enemy, and left them
in a flouriſhing Condition, which did not laſt long chro
the negligence of thoſe that ſucceeded him in the Go-
ܪ
vernment.
In the Year 1301. the Emperor entertain'd Sixteer.
1301. Thouſand Alans in his Service, and his Son Michael,
the young Emperor, put himſelf at their Head, paft o-
ver into Gilin, and march'd againſt the Turks, whom he
would fain have fought, but his Council would not con-
ſent to it, which diſguſted the slans, who were for a
Barrel, in hopes of enriching themſelves with the Spoils
of the Field. Michael was forc'd to be govern'd by his
Counſelors, and they fearing the Enemy, oblig'd hien to
retreat; which gave the Turks an opportunity to Waft
and Pillage the Provinces; and this Expedition ended
as unfortunately as the reſt of the Romans in thoſe Days;
which was a great Slar to the young Prince's Reputation,
it being the first he undertook.
The
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus II.
343
The Venetian Fieer at this time came before Conſtan. A. D.
tinople, enrer'd the Port of Cetas, landed on the Princes 1301,
Inand, took a great number of Priſoners, whom they
barbarouſly usd, and compelld the Emperor to reſtore
the confiſcated Goods.
The Turks alſo pour'd in a like Deluge on the Aſia-
tick Provinces, where Muzalo Commanded for the Em-
peror, but could not pretend to put a ſtay to the Tor-
rent that threaten'd to overwhelm the Eaſt, he having
no more than 2000 Men, as well Romansas Alans to make
head againſt the Barbarians: However Muzalo bravely
gave them Bartle, and being born down by the Multi-
tude of the Infidels, was forc'd to retire to Nicomedia,
which City was crouded with People, the Inhabitants
of the Neighbouring Country flying chicher with their
Effects from the Turks, who deſtroy'd all before them,
to the Suburbs of the City, and to the Walls of Prufa
and Nice. Which Deſolation the Emperor not being
able to repair by Arms, he had recourſe to Treaties ; a
poor way of accomodating Affairs, practiſed by the Ro
mans in the Bas Empire, always to their loſs.
In September 1304 Ronz rius arrivd in the Port of 1304.
Conſtantinople with ſeven Ships, having on board 8000
Catalans, whom Andronicus bad hird to ſerve againſt the
Turks ; which War drew ſeveral Noblemen chicher from
Italy and Spain, to act as Volunteers in, and among the
reft came Fernando Ximenes with a Company of Spini-
ards, he was a Perſon of the firſt Quality in Spain ;
And Ronzerius a Soldier, of Fortune, he was bred a
Monk, and left his Cell to put on his Sword and fighe
againſt the Infidels. He ſignaliz'd himſelf in Syria, and
when the Chriſtians were driv'n out of that Country by
the Sarafins, he ſervd Frederick, Nephew of Manf. ed.
who was contending for the Crown of Sicily. The Ronzerius
Emperor hir'd him and his Troops, which confiited lii'd by the
of Robbers, who follow'd him in hopes of Plunder, Emperor 10
ſent him a Commiflion to be Grand Duke, or londente -
High Admiral, and promis'd him Mary one of bis Niecesgiinft th:
Turks.
in Marriage, with large Rewards for his Men, is be
would enterinto his Service, which was the Tempratica
that brought biin to Conftantinople, where to many Greeks
liſted to follow him into Ajin, that the Emperor could
not procure Veffels enough to tranſport them till the
Genoeſe lent him Sbips and Money, and then Rammeris
Dd2
bung
344
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
:
A. D. being dignify'd with the Title of Grand Duke, and mar-
1304. ryd to the Princeſs Mary, failid to Cyzicus, which City
the Turks threaten'd with a Siege; when he arriv'd there,
his Troops liv'd as if they had taken the Town by
Storm. They robb'd and ravith'd, and committed ſo
many Crimes, that Ximenes alham'd to keepthem Com-
pany, return d hom with the Spaniards. Ronzerius kept
Garriſon in Cyzicus, and hinder'd the Barbarians beſieging
the Place.
The Mercenaries ruin'd the City by their Licentiouf-
nels; the Citizens were robb'd, their Wives debauch'd,
and their Daughters raviſh'd. The Soldiers liv'd in
their Quarters as if they had been in an Eneinies Coun-
try, and would not ſtir out of the City till they had
more Money given them. The Plunder which the
Romans got they would have divided among them.
f3c6.
At lait Ronzerius took the Field, boaſted that he would
foon drive the Turks out of the Empire, and the
Reputation he had got, had ſo good an effect, that the
Infidels abandon'd Germa on News of his approach,
leaving their Baggage to the Italians and Catalans, who
follow'd Ronzerius's Fortune. He gave Battle to them
near Anlachus; but tho'tbe Turks retir'd, yet confider-
ing the number of Ronzcrius's Army, and the little Exe-
cution he did with it, bis Fame did not encreaſe by
Captain of
this Adion. Noongus the Grand Hetriarque, who
was Governour of Lydia, not approving of his Conduct,
Foreigners. complain’d of him to the Emperor, but Andronicus had
ſo good an Opinion of Rongerius, that Noftongus loſt his
Credit and Offices by it, and was condemnd to cloſe
Impriſonment.
Ronzerius rais’d valt ſums of Money of the Citizens
of Philadelphia, which he put into his own Pocker. He
exacted the like ſums from Pyrge, Epheſus, and the
11ands of Scio, Lemnos and Myrclene. The Magneſians
weary'd out with his continual Exactions, roſe upon
his Men, drove them out of the City, and ſeiz'd the
Treaſures he had lefe there. Rorizerius was in a ter-
rible rage when he heard of their kevolt; he ſwore he
would level the C'iry with the Ground, and neglecting
the Salery of the Empire, he turn'd all his Force againlt
the Migncians, who defended themſelves with ſo much
Bravery, that onze ius's Threars and Storms were
thrown
the guard of
Chap. VIII. Andronicus II.
345
thrown away in vain. The Citizens declar'd they were A. D.
ready to open their Gates to the Emperor, but they 1306.
would never admit him nor any of his Crew into the
Place. Andronicus hearing how he behav'd himſelf, re-
call’d him, when he was impatient to reduce the Mag-
neſians. He delay'd obeying the Orders he had re-
ceiv’d, in hopes to be reveng'd or them in a little time,
in which he was very much miſtaken. The Citizens Ronzeri-
continu'd to defend themſelves with incredible Relolu.us'i 7.mps
aitzik the
rion, and he was forc'd to raiſe the Siege, and to com-
Greeks.
ply with the Emperor's Command, to return with his
Troops to Europe and join the young Emperor Michael
near Mount Hemus, where he was encamp'd, to obſerve
the motions of the Bulgarians. In their march back
they pillag'd the Peaſants every where, carry'd away
their Corn, Money, Houlbold Goods, their Catile and
Sheep. They murder'd the Men, and ravili'd the
Women, which report fo enrag'd the young Emperor
Michael and his Troops, that they detir'd leave to fall
upon them as ſoon as they arrivd in Europe, but Ana
dronicus dreading the effects of a Civil War, fent Or-
ders to Ronzerius to bring over a thouſand of his Itali ins
and to leave the reſt in Afia.
He was ſcarce arriy'd with his Men before Berenger
enter'd the Port of Conſtantinople with nine Ships full
of Catalans, whom Rongerius would feign have perfua-
ded the Emperor to have receiv'd into his Service; in-
ſtead of which Andronicus ſeverely reprimanded him for
doing ſo little good, and ſo much initchief in Alia. Ron.
zerius could not excuſe his Carriage, yer ke tiatter'd
him out of his Relentinents, and gain'd upon him ſo
far, that Berenger and his Catalans were alio entertain'd,
Berenger
at the Emperor's Charge; but 2:renger not finding the albisca
Rewards of which Ringerius had given him hopes, got talans en
aboard his Ships and return'd home. Ronzerius pretind-ploy?! by
ing to be diſguffed at the uſage he mee with, threatend the Europe
Andronicus with further Violence, and the Emperor waso".
oblig'd to appeale him with a good fam of Morey, and
the Dignity of Cfar, for which he promisd to disband
bis Troops; but inſtead of that he fent fome of thun
to Cyzicus, fome to Piga, and ſome to Lopodiam, sod
by Intelligence with Berenger desain d mail of the Cita:
346
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A.D. lans, with whom and his own Banditti he thought he
1306. Inight eaſily maſter the whole Empire.
The Foires under the Command of the Emperor Mi.
chael dereited the Inſolence of theſe Mercenaries : Ron-
zerius knew they were his profeſt Enemies, and under
colour of waiting on Michael, whom he had never had
the Honour to ſee, he went to Adrianople with 150
choſen Horſe to view the ſtrength of the Roman Ariny.
The young Emperor receiv'd him with all poſſible de-
monftra:ions of Reſpect; he admitted him to eat at his
own Table, and to ride on his left Hand when
he enter'd the City. The Soldiers of the Garriſon,
animated by a Citizen of Cyzicus, whoſe Son had
been murther'd by Ronzerius's command, watch'd their
opportunity as he was going alone into the Empreſſes
Apartment and cut him to pieces, the Cizican giving
Ronzerius him the firſt Wound, and afterwards they fell upon the
siurder's Catalans and maſſacred them where ever they found them.
by the
The Catalans hearing their Leader was murder'd, and
Gieek
their Companions mafſacred, rally'd together in Cal
Solliers.
The Cata-tipolis
, pur Man, Woman and Child to the Sword.
and ſhut themſelves up in the City, reſolving to ſtand
Jaos inal-
on :heir Defence.
ured.
Michael fent a Detachment from bis Army to beliege
The Cata-
Jaas ſeize them. The Catalans ſally'd frequently on the Romans,
Callipolis, and ſo weakend them by the advantages they gaind
1307. Over them, that the Beſiegers were forc'd to give over
the attempt.
Berenger alſo being inform’d of the Death of his
Friend, landed his Men at Perinthus, and with his Fleet
fail'd back to Conftantinople, to aſſiſt the Catalans in the
City. The Emperor not having Ships enough to op*
poſe them, hird ſome of the Genoeſe, who fought the
Cata!295, defeated them, and took Berenger Priſoner :
However they would not let Andronicus have the entire
fruits of the Victory ; they kepr Bererger themſelves, in
hopes of having a good Ranſom for him, and refus'd to
act again't the Catalans on the Coalts of Thrace. For du-
sing theſe Tranſactions, thoſe of that Nation that were
in Calii polis had left that City, and being join'd by their
Countrymen and others who fellow'd them for Plun-
der, had taken the Field, committed horrid Cruelties,
and were laia down before Callipolis, which the Romans
had
1
!
܂
1
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus II.
347
had ſeiz'd and garriſon'd to prevent their retreating thi. A. D.
ther again. The young Emperor order'd the grand He- 1307,
triarque with a Body of Troops to fight the Catelans,
and force them to raiſe the Siege; but the Beſiegers laid
an Ambuſh, attack'd the Romans unaware, and routed
them, which was terrible News to Andronicus, who
to ſave 6000 Crowns which the Genoeſe demanded of
him for the Expedition, had diſmiſt them. His Cove-
touſneſs and Negligence had made him ſo many Ene-
mies, that he thought it neceſſary to require a new Oath
of Allegiance of his Subjects, which was taken by both
the Clergy and the Laity. Michael his Son to revenge
the Affiont he receiv'd near Callipolis, muſter'd all his
Forces, pur himſelf at their Head and march'd againſt
the Enemy. The Alans in the Emperor's pay were in
the Van, and as ſoon as the two Armies were engag'd,
they abandon'd their poſts and fled, which occalion'd
the defeat of the whole Army. The young Emperor
fought as boldly as the meanelt of his Soldiers, and ran
as much danger. He tore his Hair from his Head, en. Michael
rag’d to ſee the ſhameful flight of his Men, who had the Imper
been all cut off had not the Catalans been afraid to pur- ror's son
ſue them, apprehending their fight was rather politick d feated
than real, and that they had plac'd Ambuſcades to fall by theme
on them if they preſt too far. Michael got to Pamphi-
lus, and the Catçlans perceiving the Romans were fled inę
deed, ravag'd all the Country, which was like a Deſert,
che People running all to Conſtantinople for ſafety. The
Alans, who had behav'd theinſelves ſo bafely in the
Fight, were forward enough to fall on the poor Peas
ſants that lay in their way, plundering and deſtroying
their Houſes, and treating them more Cruelly than even
the Catalans, to whoni the Emperor ſent Ainbaſſadors
to treat of a Peace, but their Anſwer was ſo inſolent and
unreaſonable, the Project came to nothing.
In the mean time Andrea Moriſqua, the Greek Adini-
ral, meeting with a Party of Turks, whom the Catalans
had invited into Europe to afit them, and who now
left them upon ſome difference about dividing the Spoil,
put them all to the Sword, and this little advantage 26
å tine when the Roman Generals were everywhere fiya
ing before their linemies; got Mmifct 2 great Name.
The Catalans having taken the City of Caliipiis, and
11
Dd
gaivion
1
t
348
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. garriſon'd it, took the Fort of Madyta, from whence
1308. they made incurſions into Thrace, and ſoon after receiv'd
The Cate a reinforcement of 2000 Turks; with whom and the RC-
lans callin
mans that came into them for a thare of the Booty they gor,
the Turks,
they pait on as far as Mount Gana, ſeiz'd the Paſſes
and ar?
fiscceſsful.
of the Mountains, and put Garriſons into the Forts. This
bad News was follow d by worle, Andrea Moriſia ha-
ving ſince the Exploit we mention'd, taken ſome Ships
coming froin Sicely with Succours to the Catalans,
was himſelf made Priſoner as he was croſſing the Helo',
Jeſpont, by Philip Commander of a Squadron of the
Enemies. The famous City of Epheſus was Conquer'd
by Sultan Saifan, that of Pruſia was forc'd to pay dear.
ly for the ſhadow of a Peace, which the Sultan gave
her. The Catalans were grown ſo ſtrong that they at-
Bejelt a tempted Adrianople, but could not maſter it, yet they
Treaty of refus'd to hearken to a Treaty of Peace, which both the
Peace. Emperor and the Genoefe deſir'd them to conſent to.
Maſter of At laſt Pbiles Paleologus the Protoſtrator, of the Impe-
ale Forfeorial Family, tho' he was always bred up at Court, yet
ſeeing the Deſolation of the Empire, and that the old
Emperor in a ſort of deſperate Sloth neglected the care
of its Preſervation, and the young Emperor having made
an Efore to expel the Turks out of Europe was routed,
which threatend the Empire with urter Ruin, deſir'd
ļeave of Andronicits to try his. Fortune in a War, in
which all that had yet undertaken the defence of his
Dominions had prov'd unſucceſsful. Andronicus never
refuling any help that was offer'd him, gave him per :
mifſion to raiſe an Army, which was not done eaſily,
ad confifted of a ſmall number when raisd, yet by
his Preſents to the Officers, his Donatives to the Soldiers,
by his good Diſcipline, Temperance, Sobriety, and above
all the Example of his own Virtues he ſo modell’d his
Troops, that the Romans began to conceive hopes of
recovering their Honour and Loffes.
Plyles be-
ing informid that the Turks and Catalans had been out in
the Country to fetch in Forage and Plunder, pofted his Ar-
my between thein and their place of Retreat, which he re.
sniv'd to cut off. When he had lain there two or three
Days, the Enemy return'd with their Spoils, intending
xo keep what they had got, or dye in defence of ir.
Babydes charg'd them ſo reſolutely, that they were put to
Stola
?
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus II.
349)
;
a total rout. He purſu'd them as far as the entrance of A.DE
the Cherſoneſus, and receiving a Reinforcement from 130%.
Conftantinople, as alſo 13 Gallies to Cruize off the thore,
and prevent the Infidels tranſporting any Succours from
Afia, the Turks were driven to the latt Extremity;
eight of the Gallies were lent the Emperor by the Geo The Gatą.
noeſe of Pera, and the Infidels hoping lhe Italians would lans' and
be kinder to them than the Greeks, ſurrender'd them. Turks
ſelves Priſoners to the Genoefe, who murder'd the richeſt routed,
of them, that they might not diſcover what Treaſure
they brought with them, the reit they bound in Chains,
and deliver'd them to Phyles, or reſerv'd for Slaves.
Thus was Greece freed from the Turks, who by the per-
ſuaſion of the Catalans or Spaniards, were firit tempted
to viſit Europe, and having ſeen the Beauty, Magnifi-
cence and Riches of Greece, were continually attemp-
ting to carry on their Conqueſts on the other ſide
the Bofphorus, which before they had coolin'd to Aſia.
After the end of this fatal War, the Empire for a few
Years, enjoy'd a repoſe, to which ſhe had a long time
been a Stranger. In Europe ſhe was perfectly at Peace;
bur in Aſia the Turks diſturbid her Tranquility by free
quent Incurfions, which occaſion'd the Emperor Mi-
chael's palling over to Bitiynia to affiſt his Subjects in
the Eaſt. He ſtay'd there a very little while, his Fa-
ther recalling him to reaſſume the Government of Adria.
nople and the neighbouring Country, which he bad go.
vero'd before the Mercenaries War, and during thoſe
times of Diſtraction; he reſided ac Adrianople till Andro-
nicus order'd him to go to Theſſalonica, where he re-
ceiv'd the ſad News of the Death of his eldeit Daugh-
ter Anne, who had marry'd Thomas Son of Nicephorus,
Prince of Epirus. This and the report of his Son An-
dronicus's behaviour towards the old Emperor, threw
him into a Dittem per caus'd by his Grief, which kill'd
him in the forty third Year of his Age on the 12th of
October 1320: He marry d Irene Daughter of Leo,
1320
King of Armenia, by whom he had Andronicus the youn-
ger, Manuel, Anne and Thcodora, firit marry'd ro Smeti.
Klaus, and afterwards to Stracimire, Kings of Bulgaria,
The Emperor was extreamly griev'd for the Death
of his Son, and to encreaſe his Misfortunes, Androni-
CHS the Son of Michael, now his Fachez was dead, apo
peard
350
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. pear'd boldly in his deſigns upon the Sovereign Power,
1320. which oblig'd the old Emperor to deprive him of the
Title of it which he had given him. The old Andra-
nicus perceiving his younger Son Conſtantine to be more
obedient and dutiful than his Grandſon, the young An-
dronicus, repented that he had been ſo fond of, and lo gene.
rous to him, and would have taken away the Honours
he had beſtow'd upon him, to confer thein on Prince
Conſtantine or his Son Michael, who had not yet offend.
ed him. In order to this he commanded a new Oath of
Allegiance to be ſworn to him and the Succeſſior he
ſhould name, without making mention of the younger
Andronicus, which enrag'd his Grandſon to a very high
degree. The young Prince had his Flatterers about him,
who ſwelld his Mind with vain Praiſes of bis Deſcent
and Rights, and animated him againſt his Grandfather the
Emperor. The Chief of theſe were Cantacuzenus the
Lord Privy Paracemomenus, Syrgian, a Barbarian by Națion, but
ca.
one who by his Marriages and Poſts in the Empire, had
acquird great Riches and Intereſt, Fohn Cantacuzenus
the Grand Domneſtick, to whom Apocauchus, a very
cunning Fellow, an Officer of the publick Revenues
join'd bimſelf. Theſe contriv'd the means of young An-
dronicus's eſcape from Court; they negotiated their Mat-
rers ſo with the Ambaſſadors of Cialles, Prince of Servia,
that he pronis'd him his affiſtance to ſet him on the Im-
Maſter of perial Throne. Theodorus Synadenus the Protoſtrator,
Eibe Horſe.being drawn into the Confederacy, advis'd the Prince
to Communicate it to three of the Chief Genoefe, who
could furniſh them with Gallys to carry them off where-
A Diffe-
ever they thought convenient to retire. In the mean
sense be time the old Emperor affembled the Patriarch and ſome
imeen the of his Chief Courtiers, to whoin he complain'd of his
eider aid Grandſon's Evil Courſes, and the younger Andronicus
the younger having bis Friends alſo about him, defended himſelf
Androni- with extraordinary boldneſs. A little while after they
cus. were ſeemingly reconcild ; the old Emperor kiſs'd the
young Ones Head, and the young Emperor the Feer
of the old One; yet the Favourites of both of them,
who thought it their intereſt to keep up the Diviſion in
rhe Imperial Family, loon revio'd the former Aniinofi-
ries, and encreas' them ſo far, that on the 19th of
1321. April 1321. the younger Andronicus departed for Adria-
?ople.
Chap. VIII.
351
Andronicus II.
nople, where the Army whom he had engag‘d on his A. D.
fide, quarter'd : When he arriv'd there he was receiv'd
1321.
by the Inhabitants witb great Joy, and his Party grew The younger
formidable in a very little time. The old Emperor, to leaves the
prevent the Troubles which this Diviſion might occaſion, Court,
fent Ambaſſadors to the younger Andronicus, to propoſe
a Treary of Peace, to which his Army would not con
ſent. On the contrary they demanded to be led againſt
Conſtantinople, and Andronicus the Grandſon was forc'd and takes
to give way to their Demands.
Arms,
There was another Treaty of Peace fet' on foot by the
interceſſion of Eugenia a Nun, Niece to the Emperor
Michael Paleologus, who met the young Emperor on
the Banks of the River Melas in his march to Conftanti.
nople, and Andronicus was ſo mov'd by ber Arguments,
that he conſented to a Peace, by the advice of Syrgian
and the Protoſtrator : The Princeſs Eugenia went to
Conſtantinople with the Prince's Propoſals of Peace, and
Apocauchus with the Articles for the old Emperor to
fign; the Chief of which were, That the young Empe-
ror ſhould have a part of the Empire affign'd him, and
his Friends ſhould be Pardon d, the old. Emperor am
greed to the Propofals, ſwore to the performance of the
Articles, order'd the Patriarch to take off the Excom-
munication pronounc'd againft his Grandſon, and coin-
manded that he mould be ſtild and obey'd as Emperor. A Peace
The elder Andronicus was angry that the younger ſhould made.
fend fo mean a Perſon as Apacauchus with the Articles,
but the latter excus'd it to his Grandfather's Amballa-
dors; ſaying, his Couſin the Princeſs was his Ambaſſa-
dor, and apocauchus only a Meffinger. Thus a Mock
Peace was concluded; the younger Andronicus ſwore to
be Obedient to the Elder, and he not to alcer the Suc-
ceffion.
On the beginning of Fune the young Prince return'd
to Adrianople, whither he ſent for his Wiſe to come to
him, and where me arriving ſoon after in Auguſt, he un-
derſtood that Syrgian reſenting the Preference of Fohn Can-
tacuzenus to him in the young Emperor's favour, was
treating with his Grandfather, and was ſuddenly to wait
upon hiin at Court. He exaniin'd narrowly into the
Truth of it, and having fufficient Proofs of his Corre-
fpondence with the old Emperor's Miniſters, he charg'd
Sygriang
352
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
1
+
cus again Friends.
A.D. Syrgian with it, who deny'd it all with ſo much Zeal
1321. and ſo many Affeverations, that the Prince could not tell
what to believe, whether he was guilty or innocent,
He had no ſooner got clear of the young Emperor's Exa.
mination but he retir'd to his Governirent, a part of
Thrace, in which ſtood the Cities of Apros and Garella;
he fortify'd them, declar'd for the old Emperor,
and went to Conſtantinople. The deſertion of this Ofi
cer, was look'd upon to be occaſion'd by the clandeitine
Practices of the old Emperor's Miniſters, and that to
be a Breach of the Peace; ſo he muſter'd his Forces,
inform'd them of what had happen'd, and told them he
The younger was going to march againſt Traytors, not to deſtroy
Androni-
them, but to prevent their deitroying him and his
takes Arms.
The Inhabitants of the Mand of Lemnos, quitted the
old Emperor's Party, delir'd the young one to ſend
them a Governour, and the elder Andronicus was
driv'n to ſuch Streights, that he was forc'd to call in
The elder the Turks to his Affiltance.
calls in the
When the younger Andronicus heard that the Infidels
Turks to were arriv'd, and about to join his Grandfather's Troops
his Alift.
at Conftantinople; be reſolv'd to march againſt them,
millo
and attack them wherever he found them.
He over:
took them between Chiorli and Selibrium; the Infidels
ſeeing the Romans approaching to fall upon them, fled ;
the young Emperor divided his Forces into two Bodies,
and commanded them to purſue the Turks, who made
ſuch haft in their fight that they got ſafe into Conſtanti-
nople, loſing no more than three of their Companions,
who were taken by the Romans. The Infidels requir’d
Ships of the elder Andronicus, to Tranſport them back
to their own Country; he ſaid all he could think of to
perſuade them to tarry ; but all he could ſay was in
vain. The Turks alledg'd 'was to no purpoſe for them
to ſtay there to be Belieg'd, ſince he had not Forces e-
They retire.
nough for the Defence of the City; ſo they were
permitted to depart, and Ships provided to Tranſport
then.
The old Emperor being fruſtrated in his Expectati-
ons of a mighty Relief from the Turks, and receiving
Information that the Inhabitants of the order Illands
,
were diſpos'd to follow the example of thoſe of Lemnos ;
1
once
Chap. VIII.
353
Andronicus 11.
once more ſet afoot a Treaty of Peace. His Ambaf. a. D.
fador was Ifaac, Superior of a Convent of Monks, on
1321.
Mount Athos, a very pious prudent Perſon, who argu'd
with ſuch ſtrength of Realon on the Miſeries of a
civil War, that the Majority of the young Emperor's
Council declar'd for a Peace, to the great Joy of the old
Emperor and the whole Empire.
The old Emperor by this Treaty was to remain ſole
Maſter of the Empire; and the young one to receive
Money enough out of the publick Treaſury to pay off
bis Army ; alſo to have a Penſion of 36000 pieces of
Gold a Year.
Syrgian on the Accomodation between the 'old and
young Emperors was put in Priſon; he was accus'd of
Conſpiring to kill the elder Andronicus, and had little
to ſay in his Defence. When the Cauſe was heard:
which was done in the preſence of both Emperors and
the Chief Officers of the Court, The elder ask'd the
younger, What ſhould be done with him? But the young
Prince excus'd himſelf for not giving his Advice, be-
cauſe it might be thought partial, the Criminal ha-
ving formerly betray'd him. Notwithſtanding this af-
fected Modeſty of the younger Andronicus, 'twas re 1322
ported that Syrgian's Impriſonment was agreed on by a
private Article of the late Treaty, and thatit was purſuant
to it, chat he was condemned to be bound to a Pillar in
Priſon, and there to remain as long as he liv'd.
The Scythians about this time, to the number of
120000 invaded the Empire, and took a vaſt quantity
of Plunder. The younger Andronicus was at Didymoti. Theyounger
chum when he heard of the terrible Spoil they had Androni-
made, and tho' he had not the tenth part of the Forces cus routs
that the Scythians had, yet he march'd out againſt them,
the Scythi-
overtook a great part of them, fought them near the
Banks of the Heber, defeated them, killd and drown'd
moſt of the Barbarians, recover'd the Boory and Pri.
ſoners they had taken, rerurn'd Victorious to Dydimo-
tichum, and the Scythians ſoon after retir'd into their own
Territories.
While the young Emperor readed at Dydimotichum, 1323.
his Wife dy'd, and Andronicus to diverc his Melancho-
ly return'd to Conſtantinople, where by the Advice of
his Grandfather, he reſolv'd to demand Anne, Daugh-
ant.
ter
354
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. ter of the Duke of Savoy in Marriage; Ambaſſadors
13246 were diſpatch'd away for Piedmont on that Errand, who
brought back with them the Princeſs of Savoy, al-
tended by a numerous Train of Savoyards of both Sexes.
Before the arrival of the Princeſs the young Emperor
was folemnly Crown'd in the Church of Saint Sophia
on the 2d of February, and he did not Marry her till
October 1324. ſhe having been indiſpos'd by the change
of the Air a long while after her arrival at Conſtanti-
nople. At the Celebration of theſe Nuptials, the Sa.
voyards firſt ſhew'd the Greeks the Royal Diverſion of
Tilting firft Tilts and Turnaments, which was at that time eſteemd
seen in one of the moſt Gallant and Polite Exerciſes of the Age,
Greece. tho' 'twas the remains of the Gothick Barbarity. But
the Rrmans, for ſo the Conſtantinopolitans affected to
call themſelves, were funk ſo low, that the Barbarians,
the Poſterity of the ancient Lombards, could teach themi
Politeneſs and Gallantry; and thoſe that formerly re-
ckon'd all Nations, without the limits of the Empire
to be Barbarians, were now the greateſt Barbarians of
all the Chriſtian Nations of Europe.
When the Ceremony of the young Emperor and Em-
preſs's Nuptials and Coronation were over, he return'd
from Conftantinople to Dydimotichum, where he prerended
he had receiv'd Advice that his Grandfather was pre-
paring to make War againſt him, and his Enemies were
contriving his Deſtruction. To be on his Defence, he
gather'd his Friends and Forces together, and in Osto-
1325. ber 1325 marchd from Dydimotichum to Selybrium, and
being in open Rebellion, the old Prince commanded
that his Name ſhould be left out of the Prayers in the
Imperial Chappel, defiring the Patriarch to order it
not to be menrion'd in the publick Prayers in any of the
Churches, which that Prelate, who favour'd the young
Emperor's Ambitious Deligns, would not conſent to.
The elder Andronicus reſented the Biſhop's Obſtinacy ſo
luighly, shat he order'd him to be confin'd to the Mo.
raſtery of Mangana ; and the Parriarch perlifting in his
Stubbornneſs, excommunicated all thoſe thar fhould 0-
Theyounger mit the Name of the young Emperor in the Prayers of
Androni- the Church, or deny him the Honours due to his Imperial
CU3 1.3kes
Dignity. His Grandfather was extreamly exaſperated
Arms as
at his Grandſon's breaking the laſt Treaty. He would
fairlo
noc
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus II:
355
not at firſt hear of any Propoſals of Peace offer'd bim by A. D.
the Biſhops, but apply'd himſelf to Preparations of War 1324
to reduce the young Emperor by Force. He defird
help of Cralles Prince of Servia, who promis'd to aſ-
Gift him ; the younger Andronicus made the ſame
Application to the Sultan of the Turks, and had the ſame
aſſurances. The old Emperor forbad the young one to
enter into Conſtantinople, whither he was advancing to
excuſe his Conduct, as he gave our ; but his ſeizing the
publick Revenucs, and marching at the Head of a Power-
ful Army, were ſufficient Grounds for his Grandfather
10 ſuſpect that he intended to juſtifie himſelf rather by
Arms than Arguments. He march'd up to the Walls of
Conſtantinople and demanded admittance, which being
deny'd him, and he not ſtrong enough to force his en-
trance, he turn'd his Arms on the Imperial Forces in
Macedonia, offer'd them Battle, which they refas d, and
drove them into the City of Pheras,
In the mean time his Party in Theſſalonica inform'd
him, that if be approach'd towards their City, they
would deliver it to bim ; accordingly he paſt the Stry-
inon, and after three Days march arriv'd before Theffa-
lonica, where the Citizens forc'd the Governour's Sol-
diers to retire into the Cittadei, and open'd the Gates
to the young Emperor; who hearing that the Comman-
ders of his Grandfather's Troops in Pberas had detache
300 Men to relieve the Cittadel, ſent out a Party to op-
poſe them. The two Parties met and engag'd, and
the younger Andronicus's had the beſt of it. This Suc-
ceſs diſhearten'd the Soldiers in the Cittadel as much as
it encourag'd thoſe in the City, and the young Emperor
loſt no time; he ſummond the Governour and Garriſon
to ſurrender, and when they refus'd to obey his Sunn-
mons, attack'd the Fort, which after tivo Hours relift-
ance was deliver'diro him on aſſurance of l'ardon. The
taking of Theſſalonica ſtruck Terror into all the Ciries
of Macedonia; Edella, Caftoria and Acris ſurrender'd co
the younger Andronicus, and the Army in Pheras having
information of the Defection of almoſt all che provinces,
ſeiz'd the Perſon of Demetrills, the elder Andronicus's
Son, and one of their Generals, and (cne him in Chains
to his Nephew. The other Generals made their eſcape
to Cradles, who was on the Frontiers of the Empire
will
-
-. -----
356
Chap. VIII.
The Roman Hiſtory.
A. D. with an Army; but underſtanding the old Emperor's In-
1325. tereſt to be in a declining Condition, he clapt up a
Peace with the young one, which oblig'd the Roman
Refugees to ſeek for ſafety elſewhere.
Dizier of
The Protoſtrator, who Commanded the young Em.
tbe Horf.
peror's Forces in Thrace, defeated the elder Androni.
cus's Army, and drove them to the Gates of Conſtanti.
nople. The younger Andronicus having advice that the
King of Bulgaria was marching to the afliſtance of his
Grandfather with a powerful Army, held a Council of
War, to conſult how he might hinder his entring the
Imperial City, and 'twas reſolv'd that he ſhould haften
thither, ſeize the Fort of Logos, a Paſs on the Moun
tains between the City, and the King of Bulgaria's Ar-
mny, and ſcale 'the Walls. The old Emperor, fill re.
fuſing him admittance.
This Advice was put in execution, and the Citizens
and Soldiers within Conſtantinople no ſooner heard he
was at the Gates, but they lay'd him the trouble of
ſcaling the Walls. He was receiv'd by them with Joy,
and enter'd the City with his Guards, accompany'd by
The young Fohn Cantacuzenus the Grand Domeſtick, and follow'd by
Emperor the Prototrator at the Head of the whole Army. If we
could believe Cantacuzenus who wrote this Hiſtory, he
Conftanti
. paid his Grandfather as much Reſpect and Submiſſion
bople.
as if there had been no difference between them ; but
his future Actions Thew that he aim'd at the Sovereign
Power without a Partner, and would not be contented
till the fole Dominion of the Roman Empire was in his
Poffeffion.
1326.
The very next Day after he enter'd the City fie feiz'd
the Imperial Authority wholly, and left no part of it to
his Grandfather, ordering that he ſhould be Honourd,
and himſelf only Obey'd as Emperor. He allow'd him
The elder
a Penſion of Twenty Thouſand pieces of Gold yearly,
difinift
from the permitted him to reſide in the Imperial Palace, and to
Govern.
be viſired by the Imperial Family: Which Liberty was
of no Service to him, for tio Body durft make uſe of it
for fear of offending the tiew Enigerot.
8711ers
*
manis
1
1
Chap. VIII.
417
Andronicus ITT:
Andronicus 111.
THE Old Emperor being thus depriv'd of his Go A. D:
vernment, the young One took it upon himſelf; 1326.
He turn'd out and put in what Officers he pleas'd; he
chang'd the Miniſtry, and left the management of all
things ander him to the Grand Domeſtick and the Proto-General:
ſtrator.
Maſter of
His firſt Expedition after his Acceſſion to the ſole So-the Horſes
vereign Power was againſt Michael King of Bulgaria,
who invaded Thrace, and plunder'd ſeveral Towns in
that Province. The Emperor drew all his Forces to:
gether, and march'd to Bizga to give the Enemy Battle.
Upon his approach the King retir'd into his own Ter.
ritories, and ſoon after concluded a Peace with the
younger Andronicus, abandoning the Intereſts of the elder.
During the Troubles in the Weſtern Parts of the Em-
pire, the Turks went on Conquering what remain'd in
1320,
the Eaſt. Orcan, their Commander, had made himſelf
Maſter of almoſt all Bithynia, and the little the Romans
had left was hardly worth keeping. The young Em-
peror three Years after the depoſition of his Grandfa-
ther, tranſported an Army into Bithynia, to recover
what had been loſt in the late diſtracted Times, or ac
leaſt to put a ſtop ro thefur cher Conqueſts of the Baro
barians. But he did nothing worth the Character of a
Chriſtian Captain, and much leſs that of a Chriſtian
and a Roman Emperor; a vain Title which the Cowſtan-
tinc politan Princes were ſtill proud of, tho'they kept it
only to diſgrace the Name; and while they pretended
to the' Pompous Stile of the old Roman Emperors, who
were Maſters of the World, they were themſelves Ma.
fter'd by the meaneſt of their Predeceffors Slaves, and
were laught at by all the Nations of Europe, for af
ſuming a Name which was ſo little agrecable with their
Merit, Fortune and Circumſtances.
When the younger Andronicus return'd to Europe out
of Aſia, he endeavour'd to recover the Iſlands of Sció
and Plocis, which were in the Hands of the Larins,
who by Flattery and Bribes had in the two former
Reigns
€
418
Chap. VIII.
The Roman Hiſtory.
1
A. D. Reigns kept Poffefſion of them, by permiſſion of the
1329. Greek Emperors ; but the Governours were now forc'd
to ſubmit to the younger Andronicus, who the ſame
Year defeated a Body of Turks that landed in Thrace,
and ravag'd the Country about Trajanople and Vera:
Of theſe he kill'd a great number, and drove the reſt
to their Ships, aboard which they embark d and faild
back to Alia.
The young Emperor, according to Cantacuzenus's Res
Jation, had ſeveral times been perſwading him to con-
ſent that he ſhould aſſociate him in the Empire, particu-
larly when thar Prince was wounded in his laſt Expe-
dition againſt the Turks; but falling dangerouſly ill in
1330. the following Year, he would have oblig'd him to put
on the Imperial Ornaments, which he ſtill refuſing to do,
Andronicus declar'd him his Succeffor, and Cantacuzenus
was prevail'd with to confent that he would accept of
the Sovereignty after the Emperor's Death, who reco-
ver'd bis Health contrary to expectation.
When the old Emperor heard his Grandſon was dy-
ile eider ing, he took the Habit of a Monk, which was given
Audroni him by the Protoftrator, with his Habit he chang'd
cus takes his name, and was callid Antony. The reaſon of the
the Habit elder Andronicus's ſhutting himſelf up in a Monaſtery,
of a Monk, was ſuppos'd to be an apprehenſion of the danger bis
Life might be in, if thoſe who pretended to the Impe-
rial Power after his Grandſon's Death, ſhould be jea-
lous that he had any deſign to reſume it.
The Turks who had ſettled their Empire in Aſia, beo
gan now every Year to make Deſcents on Thrace or
Macedon. In this Province they landed a great Party
of Horſe, and ravag d the Country, till hearing of the
Emperor's approach, they retird to their Ships with
fuch Precipitation, that 1500 of their Companions were
left behind, and cut to pieces by the Romans. Orcan,
Son of Ottoman, firſt Emperor of the Turks, of the Fa.
mily now reigning, to revenge this Affront, muſter'd
all his Forces aud beſieg'd Nicomedia in Bithynia, bur
on News of the Emperor's arrival on the Coaſts with a
powerful Army to relieve the Place, Orcan ſent Am.
baſſadors to propoſe a Peace, which the Romans were
in no condition to refuſe; and the Infidels kept no lon-
ger than it ſery'd their turn; for as ſoon as the Emperor
Was
:
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus III.
419
1
+
was gone they follow'd him with a mighty Fleet, and A.D.
landing Forces in Macedon, pofſeft themſelves of the 1330.
City of Sermylian, which they did to ſecure their retreat
to their Ships with their Plunder. The Emperor rais'd
freſh Troops and march'd againſt them, who not ſtaying
for his coming, reimbarkt and fail'd home. They alſo
attack'd Nicomedia a ſecond time, and oblig'd the Ein-
peror to make a ſecond Voyage to aſſiſt the Citizens.
The Infidels withdrew before he arriv'd, contenting
then ſelves with robbing and ſpoiling the Country round
about it. When Andronicus return'd to Conſtantinople,
he was inform'a of the revolt of the Theſalians, and
the Irruptions of the Bulgarians, which occafion'd his
paffing into Thef aly and Bulgaria with a numerous Ar-
my, where he recover'd the Cities that had revolted,
and reſtor'd Peace to his Dominions on that fide. From
thence he was call'd to Conftantinople by the Diſtur-
bances rais'd by the Genouefe, who were at this time ſo
ſtrong at Sea, that they defy'd the Strength of the Ro-
man Empire ; and one of them, Dominico, Son of An-
drea de Catania, to whom he had given the Govern.
ment of Phocæa, ſurpriz'd the Iſland of Mitylene, and re-
duc'd it all to his Obedience except the Cities of Ereſja
and Metimna. John Spinola held out Phocæa under Do-
minico, and the Italians were preparing to ſettle them.
ſelves in the Dominion of thole Iands. The Empe-
ror equipt a Fleet to attack the Genoueſe, who were
eſteemid the beſt Seamen in the World in thoſe Days,
and they did not fear what efforts Andronicus could
make to reduce them. The Emperor to encreaſe his
Strength, entred into an Alliance with the Turks of Ic.
nia, and the Sultan fent him aſſiſtance both of Ships and
Soldiers to recover chole Illands ; which however the
Genouefe defended ſo well, that after five Months Siege
the Romans had recourſe to Treaties and Arguments,
reprelenting the Danger of Chriſtendom by Wars among
Chriſtians, which ſucceeded better than their Arms.
Spinola had a Conference with Cantacuzenus an oid
Friend of his, and having been perſwaded by him to
ſurrender Phocea, himſelf prevail'd with Dominico to
1332.
deliver up what he had Conquer'd in Mytilene. A The Death
Year or two before this, the old Emperor departed this of the elder
Life in February, and the Empreſs Irene did not long Androni-
Ee
ſurvive cus.
420
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIIT.
A.D. ſurvive him. The Character of the elder Andronicus,
1332. does not come up to that of his Fatber: He was Sloth-
His Sloth ful and Unactive ; and 'twas owing to his Negligence,
the cauſe that the Turks got ſuch footing in Aſia Minor, that they
of the riſe could never after be diſpoffefsid of it. The Wars be-
of the
Turks.
tween him and his Grandſon, gave the Infidels an op-
portunity to invade Europe ; and the Riches of the
Weſtern Provinces, and the Magnificence of the Ro-
man Empire, of which ſome admirable Remains were
left ; the Beauty and Extent of the Cities of Thrace,
and the hopes of enlarging their Dominions, in a few
Years tempred them to carry on their Conqueſts in Ed.
rope ; where they founded an Empire that was at once
the Wonder and the Terror of Chriſtendom. Thus
Dy'd the unfortunate Frince Andronicus Palæologus, the
ſecond Emperor of the Romans of that Name, in the
Seventy Second Year of his Age, and the Forty Se-
cond of his Reign, accounting it from the Death
of the Emperor Michael Palæologus his Father, Anno.
1283, to the taking of Conftantinople by the younger
Andronicks his Grandfon, Anno. 1326 He dy'd in the
Nineteenth Year of Lewis the Bavarian, Emperor of
Germany. The Seventh of Edward the Third, King of
England. The Fifth of Philip the Fair, King of
France. And the Fifteenth of the Pontificate of Pope
Fohn XXII. A. D. 1332.
The Albanians having thrown off the Roman Yoke,
the Emperor inarchd in Perſon to reduce them to his
Obedience; and as he advanc'd into their Country, they
retir'd to the Mouarains, Icaving the Valleys a Prey to
the Romans, who drove away 300cco Head of black
Cartel. soooo0 Horſes, and i 20000 Sheep; a number
ſo prodigious, that'swould be incredible had not Cunta-
euzenus affirm'd it to be crue; and the Truth of it was
then arreſted by ſo many Witnesſes, that it ought not t.
be doubted. The Albanians being driv'n to the laſt Ex
trenities in the Mountains, beg'd the Emperor's Pardon
and ſubmitted; the fame did the Epirors, whoſe Prince
was lately Dead; and the Inhabitants, by the Advice of
the Princeſs Dowager, fent Ambaſſadors to Andro-
93101!s, to make their Subiniflions to him as their lawful
Sovereign, that Province having been torn from the
Empire, of which it was a Branch, by the Rebellion of
choir
}
Chap. VIII.
Andronicus III.
421
their Pripces. Andronicus was very glad of the Meſſage, A. D.
and to gratifie the Epirois, promis'd to marry Nice 133?
phorus, the Son of the late Prince, to Cantacuzenus's
Daughter; but theſe new Subjects were foon weary of
their new Maſter, and by the Perſuaſions of Richard, 1335
Nicephorus's Præcepror, they declar'd for him ; upon
which Andronicus and Cantacuzenus enter'd their Terri-
tories with the Roman Army, took moſt of their Cities,
and oblig'd Nicephorus to ſurrender the Capital, on
Condition that he ſhould have ſome honourable Office
in the Empire, and a Penſion aflign'd him.
The Emperor at his return fell Sick again, and his
Diftemper growing dayly worſe and worſe, it ended in
his Death, on Fryday the 13th of Jure, 1341. in the 1348
Forty fifth Year of his Age, and the Fifteenth of his The youn-
Reign, reckoning from the Year in which he depriv’dger Andro-
nicus's
his Grandfather of the Imperial Power.
He was a
Death and
Prince, Brave and Ambitious, and had he been born
Charder,
when the Roman Empire made a greater Figure in the
World, he might himſelf have made a greater Figure in
Hiſtory. But the Fortune of the Empire preſt hard up-
on his, and tho' he wanted not Courage, yet his Con-
du it was blameable in moſt parts of his Adminiſtration.
His Carriage towards his Grandfather is inexcuſable,
and the more, becauſe if the elder Andronicus did not
Govern as he ought, the younger did not do better,
He was a true Friend, of which his Affection to John
Cantacuzenus is an inſtance; yet 'tis to be doubted, whe-
ther he did not carry that point too far, when he prefer'd
the Intereſt of his Friend to that of his Children, in no-
minating him his SucceſTour; cho' we do not find
he renew'd thar Nomination in his laſt Sickneſs. Не
lov'd the Sports of the Field ſo nauch, that 'is ſaid, he
kept One Thouſand Five Hundred Dogs and One
Thouſand Hawks for his Game.
*
--
S
Ee 3
نومبر 30
422
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
John Palæologus.
A. D.
1341
BY
Y Anne of Savoy, the Empreſs Dowager, Androni.
cus left two Sons, John and Manuel, of whom John
was on his Death proclaim'd Emperor, being then about
Nine Years old His Mother, the Empreſs Dowager,
had the Care of his Perſon commitred to her, and Can.
tacuzenus that, of the Government; which very much
offended the Patriarch, who thought that Honour and
Truſt belong'd to him.
Accordingly he, by degrees, took upon him the Mi-
niſtry, nor daring to aſſume it all at once, for fear of
Cantacuzenus and his party. He form'd a Faction in
avour of his Prerenfions, brib'd the Senators, and ſpent
all bis Time in the Imperial Palace ; which rais'd the
Grand Domeſtick's Jealouſie, and begat an Enmity be-
tween them.' Cantacuzenus was inſulted at the Coun-
cil-Table by Chumnus, a Creature of the Patriarch.
His Advice was almoſt always oppos'd by that Prelate
and his Party; who by repreſenting the Grand Dome-
ſtick to the Empreſs, as one who aſpir’d to the Sove-
reignty, had engagd her on their fide: They made
Cantacuzenus's Office ſo uneaſie to him, that he ſeem'd
willing to reſign it, however the Empreſs and the Pre-
lare fearing to diſoblige him further, till their Intereſts
were better fecur'd; eaGly perſuaded him to continae his
Adminiſtration, which he manag‘d with great Prudence
and Applauſe. He forc'd the Sultan of Lydia to make
Peace with the Romans, and did the ſame to the King
of Bulgaria, who had threaten'd the Empire with an In-
vagon.
The Parriarch and his Faction, told the Empreſs Dow.
ager, that if the did not oppoſe Cantacuzenus by Arms,
he would deſtroy her and her Children; and they ar
laſt prevaild with her to conſent that they thould take
Arms, and by force depoſe him frorn•the Regency,
which he had uſurpt.
The Conſpirator's being thus warranted by the Em-
preſs's Permiſſion, proceeded to Action Apocaucus,
his Enemy, was made Governor of the City Guards
were,
1
Chap. VIII.
John Palæologus.
423
were ſer on the Grand Domeſtick's Mother, on his Son A. D.
Andronicus, and his eldeſt Son Matthem's Wife. His 1341
Friends were Impriſon'd and their Goods ſeiz'd. Apila
inus and about Forty of the Chief of his Party, made
their eſcape; and when they were gor out of the City,
went to Didymotichum, where Cantacuzenus refided; 10
whoin they brought the News of the Pacriarch's Proceed-
ings, which was ſo ſurprizing to bim, that he could
ſcarce believe it ; but he was ſoon confirm'd in it by
Letters ſent in the Empreſs's and the Conſpirator's
Name, to all Cities; ordering the Citizens to treat
him as an Enemy to the State ; to take Arms and op-
poſe him by force, if he offer'd to enter into any of
the Cities. The Empreſs wrote to him not to meddle
with the publick Affairs, nor leave Didymotichum
without her Conſent.
Apelmus and the Chief of Cantacuzenus's Party, as
well Senators as Commanders, being Summon'd by him
to a Conſultation, in which they might refolve on ſome
means of preventing the Deſtruction that they were ex-
pos'd to by the Malice of the Conſpirators, They all
agreed, That there was no way ſo likely to ſecure them
from the Danger that threaten'd them, as for him to al
ſume the Imperial Power and Ornaments; which they
unaniinouſly entreated him to accept of, and he com-
ply'd with their Requeſt, took an Oath of Fidelity
from them to him as their Sovereign; and ſent for his
Son Matthew, who lay with an Ariny at Calcidice, a
City of Thrace on the Borders of Serbia; whither he
was marching to-Chaſtize the Barbarians, who had
lately inſulted the Romans,
1
John Çantacuzenus.
As ſoon as the Troops he had in Pay were got toge
ther, he muſterd his Army ar Didymotichum; was
proclaim d Emperor, and wrote to the Cities of Thrace
and Macedon, to notifie his Acceflion to the Sovereign-
ty: Promiſing ſuch as were Faithful to hiin, to Reward
them Liberally, and to Chaftize ſeverely ſuch as Diro-
bey'd him. He then divided his Forces into two Bac
4
dies,
E e a
424 The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. dies, the one Comnanded by John and Manuel, his
1341 Wiye's Brothers, he order'd to Encamp on the Banks of
the River Melas, to prevent the Excurſions of the Gar-
riſon of Conſtantinople, and march'd with the other to
reduce Perinthus and Selybrium, two Cities that ſtood
neuter, and would declare for neither of the Emperors.
The People at Adrianople roſe on the Magiftrates, who
feein'd to incline to Cantacuzenus's Party, and the King
of the Bulgarians came with an Army to their
Afliftance;
but when the Citizens underſtood that he intended to
bring their City in ſubjection to himſelf, they refus’d
to admit him. However the Forces Commanded by
Cantacuzenus's Brother's, fearing to be attackt by the
Bulgarians on one ſide, and the Garriſon of Conſtanta-
nople on the other, broke up from their Camp on the
Banks of the Melas, and in their Retrear, John Ducas,
one of the chief Officers, deſerted ; as did many of the
private Soldiers, and fled to Conſtantinople. The Cities
of Macedon and Thrace, that had ſubmitted to him, re-
volted; and his Affairs declin'd every where, till one of
his Parties routed a Body of Bulgarians, and that King
not taking the Empreſs's Quarrel much to Heart, clapt
up a Peace with him, which encourag'd his Friends again
to appear for him in many Places.
However to pre-
vent the fatal Conſequences of a Civil War, he ſent Am-
balladors to deſire a Peace, which the Court at Conftan-
tinople would not hearken to at that time.
1343
Early the following Year Cantacuzenus muſterd his
Troops, and finding he was ſtrong enough to face his
Enemies in the Field, he left his Wife and Children in
Didymotichum with a numerous Garriſon, under the Com-
mand of Manuel Afan, his Brother in Law. There
was no City in Thrace except this, which lided with him';
and having a powerful Army, he reſoly d to open the
He is in Campaign with the Siege of Bera. Thither he march'd
very lom and intended to attack it, but before his arrival, Fahn
Circum Ducas threw in a Body of the Empreſs's Troops to
f.ances, ſtrengthen the Garriſon, and the Townſmen preparing for
a vigorous Defence, the new Emperor turn'd his Arms
against Anaſtaſiopolis , before which place he had no
betrer Succeſs than ar Bera. He then intended to pro-
ceed to Therfalonica, but he heard in his march that s;-
nedaus, Maſter of the Horſe, who was his Friend,
had
;
Chap. VIII. John Cantacuzenus.
425
had been driv'n out of the City by the oppoſite Party; A. D.
and ſoon after he came in Perſon with ſome of his De. 1343
pendants, to wait on Cantacuzenus, who receiv'd them
all very Graciouſly. But hearing that Apocaucus was ar-
riv'd at Theſſalonica, Synadenus was perſuaded by his
Agenes, to return thither; and being gain'd by the Pro-
miſes made him in Apocancus's Name, he deſerted the
new Emperor, carrying off with him, all his Followers;
which rais'd a terrible Confuſion in Cantacuzenus's Ar-
my, for his Example Thew'd the way to a great many
others, as well Officers as Soldiers.
The young Emperor's Friends, ſeeing his Intereſt en-
creas'd dayly, to encourage their Confederates, caus'd
Cantacus
him to be Crown'd at Conſtantinople by the Patriarch;
and Cantacuzenus deſpairing of being able to carry on zenus flies
into Ser
his Deſigns by his own Strength, retir'd into Servia
1 ;
via,
and implor'd the Affiſtance of Cralles, Prince of the Coun-
try ; which he obtain'd by the Advice of Liberius, Ge-
neral of Cralles's Army, and his Favourite ; to whom
the new Emperor promis'd mighty Things. To Cralles
he gave up all the Towns the Servians had taken from
the Romans ; ſo dearly did he pay for the Barbarian's
Friendſhip: But ambitious Men think they cannot give
too much for any thing that ſupports their Ambition;
Gold and even Glory being Trifles, when they are
put in the ballance with Doininion and Arbitrary
Power:
While Cantacuzenus was in Servia, Apocaucus march'd
to Didymotichum, tọ try by force or Policy, to make
himſelf 'Maſter of that Town, in which were Cantach.
zenus's Wife and Children, his Treaſures and Maga-
zines. The Inhabitants defending themſelves with equal
Skill and Reſolution againſt his Arms and his Arts, he
left the Command of his Forces with Andronicus Palæo-
logus who had marry'd his Daughter, and retir'd to
Conftantinople.
The Empreſs wrote to Cralles, promiſing to give him
certain Towns in the Empire, if he would deliver up
Cantacuzenus bound in Chains. The Servian anſwer'd,
He would not be guilty of. So baſe. an Action for the whole
Empire. The Theſſalians being inform'd that the new
Emperor was returning out of Servia with a numerous
Army, ſent Ambafadors to make their Submiſſions to
him,
426 The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. him, and accepted of John Angelus, his Kinſman, for
1343 their Governour.
Cantacuzenus, with what Troops Cralles could ſpare
him, enter'd the Roman Territories, and was advancing
towards Didymotichum, but in his March he receiv'd
Letters from his Wife, adviſing him by no means to re-
turn thither, unleſs he brought an Army with him
ſtrong enough to oppoſe Andronicus Palæologus, who lay
with a great Body of Horſe and Foot in the Neigh-
bourhood of that City. The new Emperor, on this Ad-
vice, march'd back into Servia; and in his Deſpair had
recourſe to Amir, Sultan of Ionia, who was his Ac-
Cantacu- quaintance and Friend; and at his requeſt
, landed at
zenus in- the Mouth of the Heber with an Army of 29000 Turks,
vites the
Turks to
upon whoſe arrival the Bulgarians who came to the Em.
bis Allic preſs's Atliſtance, fed hone. Cantacuzenus hearing the
stence.
Turks were arriv'd, muſter'd all his Forces, Romans,
Servians and German Mercenaries, and advanc'd into
the Empire; where the Terror of the Turks landing and
joining with his Friends, had prepar'd ſeveral Cities to
receive him. His Succeſs allarm'd Apocaucus; and Cralo
les ſeeing he could now do his Bulinels without him,
repented that he had aſſiſted him ; recalld his Troops,
and gave notice of it to Monomacus, Governour of
Theſsalonica, that ke might fall upon him before he
receiv'd any farther help. Amir and the Turks were
forc'd to return home, the Seaſon being ſo cold that
they could not keep the Field; and Cantacuzenus had no
City to affign them Winter-Quarters in.' However the
Germans and the Romans ſtood firm, offering to charge
the Servians in their retreat, and chaſtize them for
their Treachery; which Cantacuzenus did not approve
of, fearing to offend Cralles too much.
There were ſome mercenary Turks in the young Em-
peror's Army, who committed horrible Spoil in the
neighbourhood of Berea, where the new Emperor lay.
Cantacuzenus reproach'd Monomachus, their General,
The Turks with ſuffering Foreigners to ruin the Empire, inſtead of
encourag'd employing Romans againſt Romans, which was a Re-
in this
flection on himſelf, who firſt call'd in Amir and the
Wur to At Infidels, and ſet an example to his Enemies that was fa.
Conqueſt tal to Chriſtendom ; for the Turks by their frequent Ex.
of Greece. peditions into Europe, became more in Love and better
Acquain:
Chap. VIII.
427
John Cantacuzenus.
Acquainted with the Country, and this encourag’d A.D.
them in their future Attempts, to Conquer thoſe Pro- 1343;
vinces which they at firſt came to Prorect.
Cantacuzenus was again obligʻd to apply to his old
1344
Friend, the Sultan Amir, for Relief. The Barbarian
arriv'd at Clopus near Theſſalonica, pillag’d the
Country round about the City with part of his Troops,
and ſent the reſt to Berca, to the aſſiſtance of the new
Emperor ; who as ſoon as he had receiv'd this Rein-
forcement, left bis Son Manuel Governour of Berea,
and march'd towards Theſalonica with the Flower of
his Troops, as well Theſſalians and Bereans, as Turks.
Near Amir's Camp, the Sultan came forth to meet
him; and after their mutual Salutations were over, they
Summond the Citizens of Theſſalonica to ſurrender the
City; which they refus’d, and exercis'd unbeard of
Cruelties towards thoſe that they ſuſpected to incline to
it. Cantacuzenus perceiving that his new Allie bad not
ftricken ſuch Terror into the Romans, as to bring them to
a Compliance withour force, fent Ambaſſadors to the
Empreſs to demand Peace, and Amir wrote to her ac
the ſame time to exhort her to it. Apocaucus entertain'd
the Sultan's Ambaſſador very Honourably, but treated
Cantacuzenus's in a barbarous Manner, fhewing no Incli-
nation to treat. The new Emperor and the Sultan ato
tackr ſeveral Towns and took them, after which they
march'd to Didymotichum, where they were receiv'd
with extraordinary Joy by the Court, Garriſon and
Citizens. He made a ſhort ſtay there, and then de
parted for Rhodope. All the Cities of the Morea ſub-
mitted to them, of which Country Cantacuzenus made
his Brother in Law, John Afan, Governor. From
thence returning to Didymotichum, he ſent out Decach-
ments to Summon the Cities of Thrace, and thoſe that The Turks
did not ſubmit upon Summons, he gave to the Infidels
fide with
Cantacu-
to be Plunderd.Apocaucus ſeeing the Danger he was zenus, and
in by Cantacuzenus's good Fortune, to prevent it, mend his
Brib'd one of the chief Cimmanders in Amir's Army, Fortuije:
to raiſe a Mutiny, and put the Soldiers on demanding
to return to Aſia ; to which the Sultan conſented, on
Condition that the Empreis fun th'd him with Ships ;
and that was readily agreed to. The Sultan promis'd
Cantacuzenus to come back with other Troops, as ſoon
25
428
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII,
A. D. as his convenience would permit him, and never to a-
1344. bandon his Intereſt, till he was in quiet Poffeffion of the
Imperial Power. But now he was oblig'd to leave him,
the Chriſtians of Rhodes and ſome Italian Troops pre-
paring to actack Smyrna, the beſt Port in his Domi-
nions.
The length of the War began to make the Court of
Conſtantinople uneaſie, and tho' they did not loſe ground,
cwas enough to diſcourage thoſe of the Empreſs's Par-
ry who wiſh well to the Empire, that they did not gec
ſo much as was neceſſary for the publick Peace. Am-
baffadors were diſpatch'd to Didymotichum to propoſe a
Treaty, which took no effect; on the contrary it very
much forwarded Cantacuzenus's Affairs; for he defen-
ded his Conduct for fix Days together with ſuch
ſtrength of Reaſon, that the number of his Friends
encreas'd dayly, and all the Cities of Thrace, except
three, opend their Gates to him in a few weeks
6345
time, which extreamly embarraſt the Emprels's
Councels; the deſir'd Succours of Orcan, Son of
Ottoman, which the new Emperor hearing of, he al.
ſo ſent Ambaſſadors to him on the ſame Errand;
and the Barbarian underſtanding thar Cantacuzenus's
Faction was the moit prevalent, agreed co afiliſt him. on
Conditions concluded between them to the Turks advan-
tage.
With the Succours he receiv'd froin him, he re.
duc'd the Cities on the Euxine, and took the Fort of
Empiritum near Conſtantinople ; after thiş he aſſembled
all his Forces together, and advanc'd to the Gates of
Cantacu-
zenus's
the City. The Turks rob’d and ſpoild the Villages a-
Affairs
round it, and made the People Caprives. The Citi-
proſper.
zens ſewing a firm Reſolution to defend themſelves,
Cantacuzenus drew off his Troops ar the Requeſt of the
Religious in the Town ; and not long after Adrianople
ſurrender'd ro hiul. Amir alſo return dro his aſſiſtance,
with an Army of 20000 Turks, which reduc'd the Em-
preſs's Affairs to the ſame Extremity as Cantacuzenus's
was in iwo Years before. Apocancus endeavour'd ro
gain the Affections of the People, by his exact and affi-
duous Adminiftration of Juſtice; and when thar would not
do, he reſolv'd to equip a mighty Fleer, and exerciſe his
Tyranny on the Ocean. Hc fill'd the Priſons with Per-
ions of Quality, whom he ſuſpected to be in the Intc-
reſt
Chap. VIII. John Cantacuzenus.
479
teſt of the new Emperor. He turnd the Palaces into A. D.
Priſons, and having ſecur'd, as he thought, the City 1345,
from the Attempts of Cantacuzenus, he offer'd the Em.
preſs to maintain her in the Dominion of the Sea, if
The would give her conſent that her Son Mould Marry
his Daughter. He alſo wrote to the Pope to propoſe a
Reunion of the Greek and Latin Churches, and to de.
fire help againſt Cantacuzenus. But before his Projects
could be effected, he was Kill'd by the Priſoners in one
of the Priſons which he us'd to viſit. Theſe unfortu-
nate Wretches ſeeing him enter without his Guards,
threw Stones at him till he fell, and then they beat his
Brains out with a Club. As this Man was the Heart
of the Empreeſs's Cauſe, ſo when he dy'd, that languiſh'd
by degrees, till the concluſion of the Peace between the
two Emperors. A poc aucus's Brother declar'd openly
for him. The Thealonians receiv'd a Garriſon which
he ſent them; and his Council, to add the greater Glo-
He is
ry to his Title, advis'd him to be ſolemnly Crown'd ; Crown d.
which was done at Adrianople by the Patriarch of Fe-
rufalem. To engage Orcan the more firmly in his In- 1346
tereſts, he gave him his Daughter in Marriage. His
Son Matthew took ſeveral Places, and defeated Hierax,
who,Sally'd out of Conftantinople with a Party of the
Garriſon, The Emperor Cantacuzenus carry'd on a Cor-
reſpondence with ſeveral eminent Perſons in that Cicy,
for gaining adinittance into it; and to be the nearer
at hand, remov'd from Adrianople to Selybrium. The
Buſineſs was negotiated by Ziracus, an Officer of the
Empreſs, to whom Cantacuzenus promis'd for himſelf
and his friends, whatever they could deſire:
At the time appointed Cantacuzenus march'd from Se-
fybrium, at the head of a Thouſand choice Soldiers ; he
took no more with him, to prevent giving any umbrage
of his Deſign. When he arriv'd, his Faction within the
Citý, opend the Golden Gate to him, and receiv'd him ceivd in-
with Shours of Joy, faluting him Emperor. He enter'd to con-
in the Night, and forðad his Soldiers to do any Da-ſtantino-
mage to the Citizens. The next Day, early in the ple.
Morning, the oth of Fanudry, 1347. he went to Our 13-17
Lady's Church, to pay his Devoţions for the Blekings he
had receivid, under ber Auſpices. The Empreſs for.
city d her ſelf, as well as the could, in the Imperial Pa-
He is rea
lasei
i
430
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
t
A, D. lace; and ſent for Affittance from the Genoveſe at Galata.
3347. Buc Cantacuzenus's Men ſtood ready on the oppoſite
Shoar to oppoſe their Landing. He then aſſembled the
Bilbops, and juſtity'd his Conduct during the whole
courſe of the War. He debir'd them to wait on the
Empreſs, and repreſent to her how prejudicial it wou'd
be to the State, if by perfiſting in her refuſing Peace,
the ſhould bring the War into the capital City of the
Empire: That her hopes of Help were vain, and he
with'd for an opportunity to ſhew bis Clemency to thoſe
that had injur'd him; and his Gratitude to the late Em-
peror, by promoting the Glory and Advantage of his
Children. The Archbiſhop of Phillippopolis was en-
truſted with this Meſſage, which the Empreſs rejected
by Advice of her Counſel. Her Behaviour ſo enrag'd
the Rabble of Cantacuzenus's Faction, that they Affaul-
ted and Plunder'd the Palace of Blacherna. The Em-
peror Palæologus, who was ſcarce Fifteen Years old,
had ſo much Wiſdom and Temper, as to adviſe his
Mother to ſend an Ambaſſador to Cantacuzenus, with
Propoſals of an Accommodation ; ſaying, He had ra-
ther Dye by his Revenge, than the Fury of the Multitude,
if his Refentment provok'd him to deny what he ſo lately
offer'd The Empreſs, frightend at the Tumult in
the Palace, fent Andronicus Afan, Cantacuzenus's Father
in Law, to deſire Peace, which was readily conſented
to by him, and an Oath drawn up for the Empreſs
and her Son to take, containing in ſubſtance, That they
mould forgive all thoſe who had join'd with him ; That
the Emperor hould accept of him as his Collegue ; and
conſidering his Youth, ſhould for Ten Years yield to
him the ſole Adminiſtration of Affairs; after which
Term they were to Reign jointly with equal Power.
Theſe Articles were Sworn to by the Empreſs and the
two Emperors; and on the 8th of February, Cantacuze-
nus was receiv'd as Emperor in the Imperial Palace,
which put an end to a Civil War that had waſted the
Empire for five Years, and had weakned it ſo, that it
became the Contempt, and in time the Prey of the
Barbarians.
The Emperor Catacuzenus being in Poffeffion of the
Imperial Authority, liberally rewarded the Turks that
had affifted him, and fenc Preſents of great Value to
Orcan
ܪ
Chap. VIII.
431
John Cantacuzenus.
ment.
Orcan, his Son-in-Law. To confirm the Peace lately A.D.
made, he gave his Daughter Helena to the Emperor Pa- 1341
leologus, and ſhe was Crown'd in Our Lady's Church,
in the Palace of Blacherne. On the Thirteenth of May
Fohn Cantacuzenus was Crown'd in the ſame place, to- And alſo
gether with his Wife Irene, Daughter of Andronicus A-ciated with
fan. The Emperor Paleologus left the whole Care of the Empe-
the State, as he had agreed to do to his Collegue, and ror John.
gave himſelf over to Pleaſure, waſting his Youth and
his Time with lewd Women, of which the City and
Court of Conſtantinople were full, to the Scandal of the
Chriſtian Religion, while Cantacuzenus apply'd all his 1348
Thoughts to provide for the Neceſſities of his Govern-
Seftos and
The Turks having in latter Years found the Way in-
Abidos.
to Europe, croſſing from Avido in Natolia to Sefto in Ro-
mania, and from Lamſacus to the Cherſoneſe in ſmall
Boars, they landed, robb'd, and deſtroy'd the Country
frequently ; for the Defence of which the Emperor
plac'd good Garriſons on the Frontiers, and his Son
Ducas,
Matthew fought a Party of theſe Robbers, roured and
kill'd moſt part of them ; but being diſſatisfy'd that his
Father had left the Succeſſion of the Sovereignty in the
Houſe of Palæologus, he ſeiz'd the Cities of Didymo-
tichum, Adrianople, and ſome other Places, intending to
erect them into a Srate, independant of either of
the Emperors; which his Father hearing he was ex-
treamly enrag'd, and had not the Empreſs Irene perſuad-
ed her Son to return to his Obedience, and her Huro
band to forgive him, a War had commenc'd between the
Father and Son in the Beginning of Cantacuzenus's Reign.
This Year the Two Emperors made a Progreſs through
Thrace, and 'twas a great Satisfaction to the People to
ſee that the Son of Andronicus was ſtill in Poffettion of
the Imperial Dignity. When Cantacuzenus return d to
Conſtantinople, he fent Ambaſſadors to Rome to excuſe
himſelf to Pope Clement VI. for making Uſe of the
Arms of the Infidels in the late Troubles, and to propoſe
a War againſt them ; as alſo to revive the Old Project
of the Reunion. The Pope ſeem'd to approve of the
Einperor's Defence, and his Zeal for the Chriſtian Re-
ligion; he promis'd to call a Council to conſider of
the War, and ſent Ambaſſadors to Conftantinople, to in-
forin
432
The Roman Hiſtory: Chap. VIII.
A
A.D. form the Emperor of his Intentions; which Death
1349 foon put an end to ; and the next Pontiff did not think
fit to go on with the Deſign.
Cantacuzenus receiving Information that 2000 Turks
had croſt the Hellefpont, and were then ravaging the
Coaſts of ihrace, march'd Night and Day till be
overtook them near Mefena ; he defeated them, killd
a great Number, and took many Priſoners; the reſt of
them gain'd an Eminence, and ſtood on their Defence,
Theſe Infidels had ſerv'd under him in the Civil War,
and been Liberally rewarded by him. The Emperor
forbad his Soldiers to ſhoot at them, and advancing to-
wards the Barbarians, he cominanded them to ſurren,
der, and fear nothing; which they did, fell down at his
Feet, and kiſs'd them. While he was reproaching
them, Nicephorus Angelus, Prince of Epirus, who had
marry'd his Daughter, the Princeſs Mary,' and ſome
young Lords, drew their Swords, and kill'd ſeveral
Turks, which endanger'd the Emperor's Life, who was
ſurrounded by the Infidels ; but they ſuppoſing what
thoſe Lords did was not done by his Permiſſion, for-
bore doing him any Miſchief. Cantacuzenus bad them
in their own Language, ſave themſelves on the Eminence
they had deſcended from ; which they did, and put
themſelves in Order of Battle. Then the Emperor re-
prov'd Nicephorus for his Inſolence, approach'd near the
Eminence, and preſented the Turks with Rich Gifts for
their Readineſs to yield to him, and their Sincerity in
their Submiffion, though provok'd by his Son-in-Law
to act otherwile. The Infidels thank'd him for his
Bounty, embarq'd aboar'd their ſmall Veſſels, and paſt
into Afia. Cantacuzenus went from Mefena to Didymo-
tichum, where he was taken ill of a Diſeaſe in the Reins,
1350 which laſted a whole Year.
While he remain d there, the Genoueſe of Galata, who
had been ſo Inſolent as to ſeize the land of Chio, du-
ring the Troubles, defir'd a piece of Ground, under
Pretence of enlarging their City ; but the Situation of
the place was ſuch, that if Cantacuzenus had granted it
to them, they might cally have fortify d it ſo well,
that their City would have been impregnable and
would have giv'n then the Command of the Sea, to
which they aſpit'd. The Emperor refu'd them the
piece
}
1
Chap. VIII. John Cantacuzenus.
433
piece of Ground, and they reſented his Refuſal ſo high. A. D.
ly, that they reſolv'd to make War upon the Romans, 1351
for whom they were already too ſtrong at Sea. They
took hold of the Opportunity of Cantacuzenus's Abſence The Ge-
and Sickneſs, and attack'd the Romans who liv'd oppo-nouere i
ſite to them, burnt part of the Emperor's Ships, and War with
ſeiz'd others of them that wcre fitter for their Service :the Roo
They alſo burnt all his Galleys, except Three, which mans.
Manuel, his Son, whom he had left Governor of the
City, had remov'd out of theit Way in time, they in-
ſulted the Coafts, and committed where-ever they came
áll manner of Acts of Cruelty and Rapine,
Cantacuzenus, ill as he was, order d himſelf to be car-
ry'd to Conſtantinople ; when he arriv'd there, the Mer-
chants waited on him to petition for Help againſt the
Genoueſe, who had quite ruind their Trade. The Em-
peror promis'd them his urmoſt Afiſtance, built Ships,
and prepar'd to attack them by Land. The Genoueſe
ſeem'd a while reſolv'd to abide all Extreunities, rather
than pull down the Fortifications which they had rais'd,
but at laſt they conſider'd, that the Romans were as
much too hard for them by Land, as they were for
them by Sea, and thought it their intereſt to beg Peace
of the Emperor, which he readily granted chem, on
Condition they demoliſh'd their Forrificacion.
We are now drawing to the Concluſion of Cantacu-
zenus's Reign, who differs ſo much in his Hiſtory from ·
Ducas, that 'tis impoſſible to reconcile them in their Ac-
counts of his Abdication.
The former tells us, that ſome time before this, when Canticu.
the Two Emperors reſided at Theſſalonica, Paleologus's zenus'stin
Flatrerers perluaded him to break the Treaty with Can-Gount of his
tacuzenus, and take Arms ; which he did, made hiin. abining
ſelf Maſter of ſeveral Towns, and rais'd another Civil the empire
War, that threatend the Empire with prefent Deltru-
ction; but the Old Emperor was ſo diligent in his owa
Defence, that he drove the Young One out of the Con.
tinent to the land Tenedes, which was then in Porter-
fion of the Romans. After this Cantacuzenus order'a bis 1355
Son Matthew to be Proclaim'd and Crown'd Emperor;
and at laſt perceiving that the Romans generally liclin'd
to the Houſe of Paleologus, he refolv'd ro religo his Im-
perial Crown to his Son-in-law, and thuc himſelf up
ia
.
.
434
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII.
A. D. in a Monaſtery ; but before he could effect his Deſign,
1355. the Young Emperor fail'd from Tenedos to Conſtantino-
ple, was admitted into the Port and City by his Friends,
who rais'd a Tumult, plunder'd all thoſe that favour'd
the Houſe of Cantacuzenus, and oblig'd the old Emperor
to make his Peace with the Young One; which being
concluded, Cantacuzenus retir'd to the Monaſtery of
Mangana, put on a Fryar's Habit, was ſhav'd, and took
the Name of Joſeph. His Wife Irene went alſo into a
Religious Houſe, took the Habit, and chang'd her
Name to Eugenia. Upon this a War enſu'd between
the Two Young Emperors, John and Matthew ; the
latter was taken Priſoner, and confin'd firſt to the Inand
of Lesbos, and afterwards to Peloponeſus. Here he
1356
ſolemnly renounc'd the Imperial Title, and by his Fa-
ther's Perfuafion retir'd into the ſame Monaſtery.
Ducas's
Dutcas reports theſe Events in a different manner: He
Relation of informs us that Cantacuzenus, having one Day reprov'd
the fame
his Son-in-Law for his Debauchery; Paleologus was ſo
Event.
angry with him, that he left the Court, and embarking
aboard a Galley that was provided for him, ſaild to
Italy, where he ſtay'd Two Years, gathering Money
there, and by his Agents in Germany, towards carrying
on the War againſt the Infidels, as he pretended, tho
his private Deſign was to raiſe Men, and attempt to
recover the fole Dominion of the Greek Empire. When
he had got as much Money in Italy as he could raiſe,
he return'd into the Eaſt, and landed at Tenedos, where
he mer with Francis Galutzio, who commanded a Squa.
dron of Genoueſe Ships in the War with the Venetians :
This Onicer had then Two Galleys in the Port of Te-
nedos, with which he was about to put to Sea ; bur en-
tring into a Treaty with the Young Emperor, he en-
gag'd to procure himn Admittance into Conftantinople,
on Condition that the Iland of Lesbos mould be giv'n to
him, and with it his Sister, the Princeſs N. Paleologina,
in Marriage. Theſe Terms being agreed to, Galutzio
,
by a Ștratagem, got the Soldiers of one of the Port
Gates to open ir, and enter'd it with 500 Men; who
Killing the Guards, admitted 2000 more, whom the
Emperor had brought with him from Tenedos. The Geo
nouefe cry'd out with a loud Voice, Long live the Em-
peror John Palæologus; and the Citizens crowding to
D
>
.
Chap. VIII. John Cantacuzenus.
435
Z DUS 30-
tires to a
Some Monaſtery.
the Hyppodrome, join'd with them in their Acclamations. A. D.
Galutzio at the Head of the Genoueſe, march'd along 1356.
the Walls, and rais'd the People to the Defence of the
Young Emperor, whom he had ſhut up in a ſtrong
Tower, and ſet Guards on him for the greater Safety
of his Perſon, The Citizens always inclin'd to the
Houſe of the Pal.eologi ; and Cantacuzenus perceiving
the Revolt was general, fled into the Monaitery of Pe-
riblepta, was ſhor'n, cook the Habit of a Monk, and 1356
ſent Word to the Emperor, his Son-in-Law, that the
Palace was prepar'd for his Reception. The Emperor
Palaologus deſcended from his Tower, and, ſurrounded
by the Italians, march'd to the Imperial Palace, where
he was met at the Gate by his Wife Helena, and her
eldeft Son Andronicus.
The Emperor Cantacuzenus liv'd all the Remainder of Cantacu-
his Life in a Monaſtery, and ſpent it in Study and De.
votion. The Time of his Death is not certain : Some
Writers place it in the Year 1375. and others much
later. It appears by the Number and Bulk of his Wri.
rings that he dy d many Years after his Abdicarion. His Death.
Belides his Hiſtory of the Elder and Younger Andronicus,
Mr. Cou
of John Palæologus, and Himſelf, he wrote a Commen-
Gin-
tary on Ariſtotle's Ethicks, on the Canticles, Nine Books
againſt the foms, Eight againſt the Turk's Religion, a
Book of Controverſie in the Diſpute between Barlaam His Cha-
and Palamas, and other Treaties of Divinity. He was railer as it
generally efteem'd the moſt elegant Writer of all the Prince and
Modern Greeks, and affects in his Hiſtory of his own F koriin
Reign to thew a great deal of Impartiality; but it muſt
be confeſt, that Vanity and Self. Love are too predomi-
nant in the whole Courſe of the Story; and if he is
true to himſelf, 'cis very much to be queftion'd whether
he is ſo to others. As a Prince, he was Politick, Dili-
gent, Brare, Generous, and Merciful: He loy'd long
Speeches, which make a good parr of his History, and
ir did not appear thac he was very Religious, till his
Deſpair drove him into a Monaſtery. His marrying
his Daughter to Orcan, Emperor of the Turks, his ex-
traordinary Friendſhip with him and Anii, Sultan of
Tonia, and the Advantages he gave the Infidels by that
pieans over the Chriſtians, did more hurt to his Reli.
gion
Ff 2
436
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIIT.
:
A. D. gion, than his Writings, and all the Writings of the
1:56. Greeks fince, have done good.
Paleologus being in Poſſeſſion of the ſole Adminiſtra-
tion, made it his firit Care to reward his Benefactor
Galutzio, to whom he gave his Siſter in Marriage, and
with her.the Inand of Lesbos, in whoſe Court the Hi-
ftorian Ducas held a conſiderable Employ. This Au-
thor places the Marriage of the Princeſs in the Laſt Year
of Paleologus's Reign, Thirty-Gx Years afterwards
but it is very improbable that he ſhould ſtay fo long for
his Wife, or the remain ſo long unmarry'd, being then
about 45 Years Old, ſuppoſing her but Three or Four
Years of Age at her Father's Death.
The King of Bulgaria having given the Greek Em-
peror Occaſion of Offence, he march'd with an Army
into his Territories, and attackr the Cities he poſſeſt on
the Black Sea ; Anchialus he took by Storm, and roul-
ed the Bulgarian Forces that came to the Relief of Me-
Sembria, which Town he had ſurrender'd co him; the
Fortifications he demolif’d, and return'd in Tryumph
to Conſtantinople.
Gallipolis.
Solyman, the Son of Orcan, coming into Europe to
Solyman,
the Affittance of the Late Emperor Cantacuzenus, ſeizd
the Son of the City of Callipolis, the Fort of membenie, and other
Orcan,
Places on the Coaſts of Thrace, which he garriſon'd with
first fettles Turks, and was the Firſt of thar Nation who made a
ühe Turks Sertlement in Chriſtendom. He defeated the Serrians
in Europe and Bulgarians ; and though Cantacuzenus offer'd him
3358
40000 Crowns to quit his Territories, he would not
ſurrender the Places he poffeft, reſerving thein as a
Key to future Conqueſts; bur before his Father dy'd
himſelf was killd by a Fall froin his Horſe as he was
Hunting. Orcan did not long ſurvive him, whoſe Se-
cond Son Amurath ſucceeded him in his Empire, which
conſiſted of moſt of the Roman Provinces in Aſia. This
Prince obſerving the Weakneſs of the Greek Emperor,
rais'd a'Mighry Army, croſs'd the Streights of Callipo-
lis, over-ran Macedon, Thellaly, and almoſt all Thrace,
Anurath and inade Adrianople the Seat of his Empire in Europe:
Paleologus liv'd like a Man that was ſtupify'd with the
dianople.
ConGderation of his own Weakneſs and his Enemies
Victories; deſpairing to put a Stop to them, he ſeem'd
to contcat hinalſ with Conftantinople, a few Towns, and
:
Chap. VIII.
437
John Palxologus.
a ſmall Tract of Land adjacent, which remain'd (ubA. D.
ject to him. He depended ſlaviſhly on the Will of the 1358
Barbarian, and as long as he left him the Imperial City,
his Court, and the Company of his Rioters and Miſtret John the
Greek
ſes, he abandon'd the Provinces to the Tyranoy of Amu-
Emperor's
rath, a Prince, whoſe Heroick Qualities promis’d the Negligence
Infidels the Dominion of the Eaſtern Empire, as well
in Europe as in Aſia. Palæologus had no Way to ſupport
his Dignity, but to court Amurath's Friendſhip, and
complying with him in every thing he delir'd of him,
he bought an Infamous Peace, having nor Courage
or Ability enough to affert his Imperial Character, and
force the Barbarians to Reaſon by Arms. The Corre-
ſpondence which was by this Means maintain'd between
them, occafion'd a cloſe Friendſhip between Saux, A.
murath's Second Son, and Andronicus, eldelt Son to the
Emperor Palæologus. The Two Young Princes con-
verſing One Day together, conſpir'd jointly against
their Fathers, and ſwore reciprocally to be true to each
other's Intereſt as long as they liv'd. Amurath having
Notice of this Conſpiracy and Contrast, put out his Son
Saux's Eyes, wrote to the Emperor the Reaſon of it,
adviſing him of his Son's Share in the Crime, and
threatning him if he did not uſe the ſame Severity to-
wards his Son, that he would force him toit. Palæolo-
gus fearing to offend the Infidel, put out his Son's Eyes;
and to ingratiate himſelf further with Amurath, usd 1337
the ſame Barbarity towards Andronicus's Son John Ducas.
They were both of them thrown into Priſon ; from
whence Andronicus made his eſcape Two Years after-
wards, and by the Help of his Friends fled to Amurath,
according to tome Auchors; but is not likely, that
he ſhould ſeek for Protection from the Man who had
been the Cauſe of his Misfortunes. Ducas, with more
Appearance and Trutii, writes that the Genoueſe affiited
him to get out of the Caſtle of Anema, where be, his
Wife and Son were confin'd, that they receiv'd them in-
to Gilata, rejoycing at an Opportunity to make War
with the Greeks ; for ſo we mult call theſe pretended Ro- 1333
mins hereafter, being aham'd to let them carry lo Ho.
nourable a Name with them to their Slavery which is
now approaching Andronicus, by the Afitance of the
Ginoueſe, and his Friends within the City, goc entrance
1
Ffa
22
bre
438
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A.D. into it, order'd himſelf to be proclaim d Emperor, and
1389. ſhut up his Father and Brethren in the ſame Priſon
Androni- wherein he had been before confin'd. Two Years and
cus depoſes a Half after his Confinement the Old Emperor made
his Fither
John.
his eſcape to Scutari, and prepard to recover his Right
1391
by. Arms. Andronicus apprehending the Fatal Conſe.
quence of a Civil War in the preſent dangerous Circum-
Itances of ihe Greek Empire, ſent to his Father to come
to Conſtantinople, ſwearing to him and his Brothers, Ma-
nuel and Theodorus, that he would do them no Harm,
When the Old Emperor arriv’d, he re-inſtated him in
And reo
his Throne, fell down at his Feet, beg'd his Pardon,
Stores him and obtain'd it. The Reader may perhaps admire how
to the 50- he could do all this blind, as he was ; we muſt shere-
V.reigally, fore, 'to undeceive him, inform bim, that Andronicus's
Eyes being to be put our with ſcalding-hoc Vinegar, the
Execution faild a little in One of them; and his Son
had alſo come Remainders of Sight at a Side.View. The
Emperor gave his Son Andronicus the Cities of Selybri.
um, Heraclen, Rodofus, and Two other Cities, with
Their Revenues for bis Subſiſtence. He choſe Selybrium
for the Place of his Reſidence, and retir'd thither with
is Wife and his Son.
About this Time Sultan Amurath, Warring againſt
the Trabellians in Aſia, was aſſaſſinared, in his Camp
Bajazet,
by one of his Enemies, and Bajazet the Firſt ſuc-
ceeded him in his Throne, a Prince who in the Courſe
Amurath,
grozis for.' of his Life was the Wonder, the Terror, the Contempo
midable in and the Pity of Mankind. In the Beginning of his
Alia and Reign he ſubdu'd moſt of the petty Mahometan Princes
Europe. in Alia, and afterwards carry'd on his Conqueſts in Eu-
rape as far as the Borders of Hungary. His Younger
Brother Facup he murder'd, and was an Example,
which the Mahometan Princes have ſince follow'd. Ha-
ving entirely ſubdu'd Bithynia, Phrygia, and Caria, he
curn'd his Thoughts to Conftantinople, demanded a Tri-
bure of the Emperor Fohn Palæologus, and requir'd him
to become bis Vaffal: He allo lent to him for his Son
Manuel and 100 Greeks to ſerve him in his Wars, whom
the poor Emperor was forc'd to ſend him. He equipo
a vai Fleet, and celcioy'd Chios and Euboe, Ilands of
tie Archipelago, and Part of Attica. Theſe Joſults
rous'd Palxologus out of his Lethargy; he apply'd him.
felf
Chap. VIII.
John Palxologus.
439
The E16E-
ſelf with great Diligence to enlarge the Fortifications A. D.
of Conftantinople : Of which the Tirant Bajazet having 1391,
Norice, he forbad him to proceed in it, on Pain of ha-
ving his Son Manuels Eyes put our. This Order, as
infolent as it was, he was forc'd to obey, and to demo-
lith the Works he had rais'd at a great Expence, to pre-
vent his Son's being blinded by the Barbarian. His
Grief, and his Diſeaſes, contracted by his Debaucheries,
ſoon after brought bim to his End, in the Forty-firſt Death and
ror Johns
Year of his Reign, and the Fifty-third of his Age, ac Character.
cording to the beſt Chronologers, though there is ſo
much Diſagreement and Confulion in the Dates of the
Hiftorians of theſe miſerable Times, that their Chrono-
logy is not to be depended on. From the Actions of
this Prince we can only form his Character : He was
Mild, Inconſtant, a Lover of Pleaſure, Timerous,
Sloathful, and by his Vices and his Negligence haftend
the Ruin of the Eaſtern Empire.
Manuel 11.
.
MANO E L, his Son, was in Bajazet's Court in
Aſia when he heard of his Father's Death, He
immediately made his eſcape thence, and got ſafe to
Conſtantinople. The Tirant being inform d of his Flight,
puniſh'd thoſe that had the Charge of keeping him, and
ſent to Manuel to require that a Turkiſs Judge might de.
cide all Cauſes relating to the Muſulmans in Conſtantinople,
telling him, If he would not obey his Command, be fould
ſhut himſelf up in his City, for all without it was his.
As he threaten'd him, he immediately part over from
Bithynia into Thrace, and deſtroy'd all the Towns from
Panida to Conftantinople
. He commanded his General Bajazet
Abraneſes to ravage Achaia, and Lacedemonia, and ſent bejeges
another Army to plunder and ſpoil the Cities on the Conftan
Coaſts of the Euxine. Himſelf far down before Conſtan. tiziople.
tinople, and befieg'd it ſo cloſely, that the Cicizons 1993
were driv'n to the laſt Extremities
. The Emperor he:
ing in theſe Streights, fent Ambaſſadors to the Chief
of the Chriſtian Princes, to deſire Aid again't thic Bern
barians. The Chriſtians were alarmd at the Progress
of
440
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. of the Infidels in Europe, and though the Greeks were
1393: not ſo well belov'd by them as to make them ſolicitous
for their Safety, yet they were loath to let the Turks
feat themſelves in the Imperial City, which would make
them dangerous Neighbours to the Kings of Hungary,
Poland, and the Weſtern Emperors. Ac Manuel's Re-
queſt the Engliſh, French, Italians, Germans, and Peo-
Sigiſmund
ple of almolt all the Nations of Chriſtendom, lifted
King of themſelves under Sigiſmund, King of Hungary, who
Hungary
marchd againſt the Turks, gave thein Battle, and was
di jeated by defeated, on the 28th of September 1396. near Nicopolis
kin.
1396 in Bulgaria.
Now the Greeks had none to applý to for Succour ;
the Forces of the Weſtern Princes were roured, and the
Victorious Bajazet return'd to the Siege of Conſtantino-
ple. The Citizens defended themſelves ſtill with in-
credible Bravery; and the Barbarian finding he could
not Mafter the City by Force, try'd what his Policy
would do.
He fummon'd John, Son of Andronicus, who dy'd a
few Years fince at Selybrium, to ſurrender that and the
other Cities he held in Thrace. Fohn anſwer'd, Thar
his Grandfather having unjukly depriv'd him of his
Right of Succeſſion to the Empire, he hop'd Bajazet
would not take away the little that was left him for his
Subalance. The Barbarian then propos’d to enter into
a Trcary with hiin, and offer'd to declare him Empea
ror, if he would engage to deliver him' Conſtantinople
when he was in Poífeffion of it, in Conſideration of
which he was to have all the Morea, and ſeveral other
Cities in Greece, ſettled upon him. After the Concluçon
of this Treary, Bajazet deſir'd. Manuel to reſign the
Throne, that he had uſurpt, to the Lawful Heir, ſaying,
he would in ſuch caſe lay down his Arms, and give
Peace to the City. This Meſſage bad the effect 'twas
deſign'd ro have, it rais'd Divilions among the Citizens,
who were preſently diſpos'd to accept of John for their
Sovereign, and rail'd at Manuel as a perſon who ruin'd
the Empire, purely to maintain his own Dominion.
Manuel, to fhew his Fatherly Care of his Subjects, im-
mediarely ſent to his Nephew, and invited him into
the City, offering to reſign the Government into his
Hands, on Condicion he might be furnit'd with Two
Gal-
1
1
.
--
Chap. VIII.
441
Manuel II.
1
Galleys, and be permitred to depart whither he A.D.
pleas'd.
1396.
This Agreement being ſworn to by both the Uncle
and Nephew, Manuel deliver'd up the Imperial Power
to his Nephew Fohn, recommended the Care of the
Stare to him in the Preſence of the Courtiers, and with
his Empreſs and Children departed to Modon, where he
left his wife and Two Sons, Fohn and Theodore. From
thence he fail'd to Venice, and from Venice went to Mi-
lan, Genoa, Florence, Ferrara, through Italy into France,
and fo to Germany. He was receiv'd every where
with extraordinary Honours : However the Weſtern
Princes were ſo do diſcourag'd by their late Expedition
againſt Bajazet, that he got nothing of them but a few
Preſents, with which he embark'd at Venice, and re-
turn'd to his Wife at Modon.
The Emperor John, after his Admiſſion into Conſtan-
tinople, was folemnly Crown'd, and at Bajazet's Re-
queſt ſuffer'd a Turkiſh Judge to decide all Cauſes ari.
fing there between Mahometans and Chriſtians, accord-
ing to the Laws of the Arabians. Selybrium, and the
Cities which John enjoy'd after his Father's Death, were
deliver'd to Bajazei, who, proud of his Succeſs, re-
tir'd into Bithynia, and made Pruſa the Seat of his
Empire, where he liv'd a riotous Life, indulging him-
ſelf in all ſorts of Luxury. He was the Firſt of the
Ottoman Race who renounc'd Lawful Wedlock, and
allow'd himſelf a Multiplicity of Wives : He diſpoſ-
ſeſt his Neighbouring Princes of their Dominions, tho
they were of his own Religion : He ruld his Provinces
in Aſia and Europe with inſupportable Tiranny; and
having made a Fortunate Expedition into the Eaſt, he
wrote thus to John, 'Twas not for your Intereſt, but for 7 13.17
my own, that I drove Manuel from Conftantinople : bungh
Leave it if you will have me your Friend, and I willty nie luge
give you what Province you pleaſe inſtead of it: Other to John Pa-
wiſe, Witneſs God and the Great Prophet, I will ſpare
lxologus.
neither Man, Woman, nor Child. The Inhabitants ha-
ving receiv'd a ſeaſonable Supply of Proviſions, oblig'd
the Emperor to ſend him this Anſwer ; Though we are
weak, yet we put our Confidence in God, who can giv:
248 Strength, and pull down the Pride of the 70t Minh-
:
442
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
i
unes.
A. D. ty; do what you pleaſe, we are prepard to ſubmit to the
1396 Will of Heaven. This Defiance enrag’d the Tirant to
ſuch a Degree, that he breath'd out execrable Threars
The Greeks and Curſes againſt the Conſtantinopolitans, making valt
Anſwer. Preparations to execute the Cruelties upon them which
he had already projected in his Mind; but before
he could effect his wicked Purpoſes, he was himſelf ar-
tack'd by a Formidable Enemy, whom Heaven had
rais'd up againſt him, to chaſtiſe his Inſolence, and re-
venge the Cauſe of the Oppreſt.
The Princes of Aſia implor'd the Afliſtance of Tamer.
lane, Emperor of the Tartars, who had ſubdu'd the Par.
thians, and made the Eaſt tremble at the Report of his
Victories. He firſt fent Ambaſſadors to Bajazet, to
reſtore what he had unjuſtly taken from his Neigh-
bours. Bajazet return'd' a Haughty Anſwer ; upon
Bajszet's which both thoſe Princes prepard to end the Diſpute
Misfor- by a Bartle, which was fought on Friday the 28th of
Fuly 1402, in the Plains of Angoria in Galatia : The
1402 Turk was defeated, taken Priſoner, and for endeavour-
ing to eſcape, put into an Iron Cage, and ſo carry'd
about Aſia, to attend the Conqueror in his March. His
Darling Miſtreſs fell alſo into the Victor's Hands, who,
to morrifie bis Haughty Soul, was order'd to be igno-
minioufy us'd in his Sigh:, which was ſo great an Ag-
gravation of his own Shame, that in the Fury of his
And Death Reſentinent he daſht bis Brains out againſt his Cage.
Manuel, the Greek Emperor, was ſtill at Modon when
Manuel
he heard of this ſurprizing Revolution in Afia; he loſt
re-fumes
no Time, but immediately haſten’d to Conſtantinople,
the Goverge-
re-affuro'd the Sovereign Authority, and confind his
Nephew Fohn to the INand of Lesbos, the Citizens join-
ing with him in his Attempts, being offended with
Jolin for his baſe Compliance with the Turks.
The Emperor Manuel fent Ambaſſadors to Pruſa to
se ends
an Embar
. Compliment Tamerlane on his Arrival in that City.
y to Ta-
The Barbarian receiv'd them very civilly ; and ſome
merlane. Authors write, though with little Authority, that the
Two Emperors reciprocally vifted one another at Prusa
ja aná Conſtantinople. The Turkiflə Empire on the De-
feat of Bijazct was like ro be diffolvd, the Tirant's
Four Soos, Solyman Iſa, Mahomet, and Muſa prétended
cach ja chcic Turn to the Sovereignty, and the Sultans
of
さかえ ​en.
1
Chap. VIII.
443
Manuel II.
|
of Ionia, Lydia, and Caria recover'd the Territories A.D.
Bajazet ravilh'd from them. Solyman, the eldeſt of
1402
Bajazet's Sons, pofted to Conſtantinople, threw himſelf
at the Emperor Manuel's Feet, and ſpoke thus, I pray
you to ſtand inſtead of a Father to me, and I will obey
you as your Son ; I ask only the Government of Thrace of
you, and thoſe other Provinces which my Anceſtors pofleft;
and to ſecure his Fidelity to him, he gave bim one of
his Brothers and one of his Siſters in Hoſtage ; he ſur-
render'd ſeveral Cities to bim, and the Infidels were
driv'n out of them. After which the Greeks enjoy'd
Eight or Ten Years Quiet, while the Turks were miſe-
rably harraft by Inteftine Wars, to ſupport the ſeparate
Intereſts of the Four Sons of Bajazet. lfa was the
Firſt that fell by the Arms of his Brotber Mabomet,
Solyman follow'd the Fortune of Ifa, and was defeated
and Nain by his Brother Mufa; and Mahomet, by the
1413
Affiftance of Manuel, fought and overcame Mula, who
was kill'd in the Purſuit ; by which Means Mahomet,
the fole ſurviving Brother, became the ſole Monarch of
the Turks.
He ſeated himſelf at Adrianople, and was a Prince
chat deferv'd the Glory he gain'd, for his love of Ju-
ſtice, and his keeping his Faith inviolable. He bad the
Greek Ambaſſadors, who came from Manuel to Congra-
tulate his Succeſs in the late Battle, tell the Emperor
his Father, a Title he always gave him, That ſince be
got the Dominions of his Anceſtors by his Aſſiſtance and
the Grace of God, he would be always Obedient to him, as
a Son ought to be, and would never forget the good Offices
be had done him. To the Ambaſſadors from the Prin-
ces of Servia, Wallachia, Bulgaria, Achaia and Lacede-Mahomet
mon ; he ſaid, Tell your Maſters I offer them Peace, and Bajazet's
accept the Peace they offer me, defiring that the God of Peace Succellor,
would puniſh thoſe that break it. A Prince with ſuch
a good
Prince
Qualities was like to recover in a ſhort time the Splendor
of the Ottoman Power, and made all Europe to tremble to
think what would be the Event of it if it ſhould fall into
worſe Hands. In the Year 1414 the Greek Emperor 1414
marry'd 7ohn his eldeſt Son to Ann, Daughier to the
Duke of Muſcovy; and Three Years after the Son of
Bajact, whom Solymon had left in Holtage with Ma-
nyel, dy'd of the Plague in Conſtantinople. He had liv'd
there
rare
444
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A.D. bere ſeveral Years, learnt the Greek Language, ftudied
1414 the Chriſtian Religion, and renounc'd the Mahometan
One of Ba-Faith. However the Emperor would not ſuffer him to
jazet's
be Baptiz'd, for fear of offending his Friend Mahomet:
Sons turns
The young Prince on his Deach-bed ſent to Manuel this
Chriſtian. Mellage, My Lord and Father, I am now ready to leave
this world, and to appear before the Tribunal which is
prepard in another; I am a Chriſtian by Profeſion, and
you deny me the Seal of my Faith; know therefore if I dye
without Baptiſm I will accuſe you before God, that Juſt and
Uncorrupt Judge. The Emperor could no longer refuſe
kim ſo reaſonable a Requeſt. Himſelf ſtood for his
Godfather at the Font, and the next Day after he was
Baptiz'd he dy'd.
Manuel enjoying many Years of Peace and Proſperity,
began to exert a little the Vigour of the Greek Empire,
and to ſhew himſelf Powerful to his Neighbours ; he
undertook an Expedition againſt the Prince of Achaia,
compelld him to reſign bis Principality to his Son Theo-
dorus, whom he left in that Province with the Title
and Authority of Deſpot, and in his return-had an en-
terview with Mahomet at Callipolis ; the Turk put ſo
great Truſt in him, that he came aboard bis Galley and
eat with him at his own Table. But this interval of
Happineſs was like a falſe Calm before a Tempeſt ;
1421 the Halcyon Days were foon over, and black Clouds and
dreadful Storms ſucceeded, which overturn'd the roc-
rering Foundations of the Empire.
The next Year Mahomet 'the ift dy'd of an Apoplexy
as he was Hunting, and left his Son Amurath the Ild.
his Succeſſor, of whom we may ſay as is ſaid in Holy
The counters
Writ, There aroſe a new King over Ægypt which knew not
fait Sultan
Jofeph. This Sultan on his Acceſſion to the Sovereign-
ty diſcover'd his Hatred to the Greeks ; and Manuel to
prevent his giving him any Trouble, reſolv'd to protect
one Muſtapha, who gave out that he was a Son of Ba.
jazet, and had eſcap'd in the Battle of Angoria when
his father was taken. Amurath being in Afit when
Mahomet dy'd, Manuel put Muſtapha in poſſeſſion of the
'Territories the Turks enjoy'd in Thrace and Macedon,
Amurati, by the affi'tance of John Adorno, the Gencueſe
Adoniral, Governour of Phoc.ca, who lent bim Ships,
minſpeed bis Arny into Lurope. Muſtapha's Coun.
cil
i
Chap. VIIT.
445
Manuel II.
cil would have prevented their croſſing the Water, by A.D.
adviſing him to paſs over into Aſia with his Forces and 1421,
make Amurath's Provinces che Seat of the War, which
the Impoftor had not Courage to do. He lazily expected
his coming, and when he heard he was landed at Calli-
polis, and marching towards Adrianople, he took with
him as much Treaſure as he could carry off, and filed
to the Banks of the Danube, intending to eſcape to
Conſtantinople. Amurath order'd ſome Light Horſemen
to purſue him, who overtook him, ſeiz'd him, brought him
to Amurath, and he commanded that he ſhould be hang'd
as a Counterfeit, tho' the Greek Authors affirm that he
was the real Son of Bajazet.
Amurath to be reveng'd of the Emperor Manuel for
fiding with Muſtapha, march'd to Conſtantinople with an
Army of 200000 Men and belieg'd it Three Months. M-
nuel to divert him, enter'd into a Confederacy with the
King of Caramania, and other Aſiatick Princes, his Ene-
mies, to ſupport the Pretences or rather Ambition of ano.
ther Mustapha, Amurath's younger Brother, who took
Pruſa and Nice, and made ſuch a Progreſs in Afia, that
Amurath was forc'd to raiſe the Siege of Conſtantinople
and paſs over to Bithynia to put a ſtop to the new Pre.
tender. He poſted to Nice with ſo much haft, that he
ſurpriz'd his Brocher Muſtapha, cook him Priſoner, or-
der'd him to be ſtrangled, and all his Gaards cut to
pieces.
While Amurath was in Aſia, Manuel dy'd of an Apo-
plexy the zift of July in the 35th Year of his Reign, Manuel's
and the 78th of bis Age. Some Writers relate, That be. Death.
fore his Death he retir'd into a Monaſtery, took on him
the Habit of a Monk, and the name of Matthew ; buc
Ducas makes no mention of this Retreat, and he
being living at that time, muſt have heard of it had it
1
been true.
By his Wife Irene or Helena, Daughter of Conftantine
Dragalis, Prince of that part of Macedonia, which bor .
derson che River Axius, he had ſeven Sons. John who ſuce
ceeded him in the Empire, Theodorus, Andronicus, Cona
Rantine, who ſucceeded bis eldeſt Brother John, Demea
trius, Thomas and Michael. He was a Wiſe and Poli Anl Chan
tick Prince, Patient in Adverſity, and Moderate in Pro-
Timber .
ſperity; and tho he lefs bis Son bar a ſmall Territo.
:
446
!
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A. D. ry, yet the little that he had was preſerv'd for him,
1425. only by the Vigilance and Prudence of bis Father, the
Greeks being at this time in no condition to defend
themſelves with their Languiſhing Powers againſt the
young and victorious Empire of the Turks, whoſe Mo-
narchy will ſoon riſe yet higher on the Ruins of the
Greek.
fobn VII.
i
The New Emperor found his Affaits very much
embroil'd by the Irreconcilable Enmity, which
Amurath maintain'd to the Houſe of the Palæologi, oce
cafion'd by Manuel's protecting the Impoſtor Mu-
ſtapha, in his claim to the Ottoman Crown. The
Barbarian ſeeing he could not eaſily take Conſtantinople,
turn'd his Arms on Thel aly, and the Cities which his
Father Mahomet had yielded up to Manuel. John his
Son had nor Forces enough to defend the Neighbour-
hood of his Capital City from the Inſults of the Infidels,
and much leſs to ſtrengthen the Garriſons at a diſtance:
Flic Expe- This weakneſs obligʻd him to buy a Peace of Amurath,
pays Amu- by abandoning the Cities on the Euxine, which the
fath Tri Turk could not take by Force, and paying him 300000
bure. Afpres yearly Tribute. Thus the Emperor enjoy'd a
precarious Repoſe.
The Latins, ſo the Greeks call'd the Weſtern King.
doms who were Obedient to the Church of Rome,
were not very forward to aſſiit a Prince whom they.
reckon'd a Schiſmatick; and from whoſe Predeceffors
they had receiv'd ſeveral Injuries in former Croiſades
againſt the Infidels.
Goes to the Palcologus to gain the favour of the Pope, and en-
Council of gage him to interceed with the Princes in the Weſt to join
Florence. in a Confederacy againſt the Turks, went in Perſon to
the Council of Florence, held by Eugenius the IVth in
oppoſition to that of Bafile: He was attended by the Pa-
triarch of Conſtantinople, and ſeveral other Biſhops and
Perſons of the firſt Quality. The Diſpute between the
Greck and Latin Churches was refer'd to Beffarion Bi-
ſhop of Nice, Mark Biſhop of Epheſus, Iſidore Biſhop of
Ruſia,
A
Chap. VIIT.
447
John VII.
Ruffia, Balſamon and Scolarius, two Officers of the Pa A. D.
triarchal Church for the Greeks, and Julian Cardinal of 1425.
St. Croſs, together with other Prelates and Divines for
the Latins to determine, after ſeveral Conferences,
which were only held for form ſake, the Matter being
agreed on before the Eaſtern Prelares came thither, they
ended their Debates, and came to a determination in fa-
vour of the Doctrine and Supremacy of the Church of
Rome. This Agreement was ſworn to by all the Greek
Prelates and Divines, by the Emperor and the Senators, The Two
Mark Biſhop of Epheſus only refuſing the Oath, and an Churches
Anathema was pronounc'd againſt all that ſhould violate united.
the Union. But as the Union in the Reign of Michael 1438
Palæologus was ſet on foot only to appeaſe the Weſtern
Princes for the Expulfion of the Franks out of
Conſtantinople, ſo this was an affected compliance to gain
the affiſtance of the Latins againſt the Turks; and the
Prelates who fign'd the Agreement, were the firſt who
condemn'd it. When they arriv'd at Conſtantinople, and
were askt, what they had done at the Council ? They
anſwers, We are all nop of one Faith, we have chang'd The Greek
Piety for Impiety, we have betray'd the Purity of our Sa. repent of
crifice, and are become Azimites. When their Friends it.
demanded if the Latins forc'd them to it, they reply'd,
We were neither whipt nor tortur’d. The Hand that ſign'd
the Decree deſerves to be cut off, and the Tongue that cone
fented to it to be pluckt out. Several Arch-biſhops who
were to put their Names to the Re-union, refus'd co
do it till the Money was paid down, which was to be
the Reward of their Compliance. The Pope was at a
prodigious Expence for their Entertainment, and gave
Money to each Biſhop. Thus rays an ancient Greek,
They fod the Faith of Chriſt, and were worſe than Judas,
23 ho carry'd the Money he received from the Jews to those
that gave it to him, whereas the Greek Prelates brought
away theirs, and never reſtor'd it. The Almighty in
Vengeance for their temporizing with Idolatry, pour'd
our the Vials of his Wrath, and the Hands that fign'd
the abominable Decree, were bound by Blafphemers in
Bonds of Iron before the prefent Geireration pait a.
way.
The Greeks would not have been quier ſo long had
for Amurath been employ'd in Aſia againſt ſome petty
11.2-
448
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII,
A. D. Mahometan Princes in Aſia and in Europe, againſt the Hun.
1438. garians and Servians. Ladiſaus King of Hungary had con-
cluded a Treaty of Peace with him, by which 'twas ſti:
pulated, that the Hungarians ſhould not croſs the Danube
to make War upon the Turks, nor the Turks to make
War upon the Hungarians. But the Pope dilliking the
The Pope Treaty, ſent Cardinal Cæfarini his Nuncio, to Ladiſlaus
,
perfuades to perſwade him to break it, notwithſtanding he had
the King ſworn on the Holy Goſpels to obſerve it religiouſly.
of Huit By the Perſwaſions of this Cardinal, Ladiſlaus rais d'a
gary to powerful Army and invaded Bulgaria. Amurath met
perjure bim in the Plains of Varna, and in the beginning
bimſelf. of the Battle which was fought there between them,
perceiving his Men were worſted, he drew the Treaty
out of bis Pocket, and cry'd out, Jeſus Chriſt, if thout
be God, as thy People ſay thou art, Revenge the Injury
they have done thee, in breaking the Treaty which they
Swore to me in thy Name. After this ſhort Prayer, if it
deſerves ſo ſacred a Name, coming from the Mouth of
1444
an Infidel, the Succeſs of the Fight chang'd, the
He is rout- Hungarians were roured, Ladiſlaus fhain, and twiſten-
ed by A- dóm involv'd in greater Troubles than ever, by means
murat II. of the Pope's obliging the King of Hungary to be
guilty of Perjury, a Sin which the Infidels themſelves
abhor'd.
The Greek Einperor could hope for little help after
the defeat of his moſt powerful Chriſtian Neighbour,
He was ſurrounded with Enemies, who had pene him
up within the Walls of Conſtantinople, and he ſeem'd
to hold his Dominions there at the pleaſure of the Bar.
barians,
The Diviſions which the late Re-union with the La.
tin Church had occaſion d among the Greeks, the Death
of the Emperor's Wife, and the Inſolences and growing
Power of the Turks, wrought ſo on the Mind of John
VII. that his Grief threw him into a Diſeaſe, which ſoon
becaine Morral, and he dy'd in the 57th Year of his
Age, and the 24th of his Reign, A. D.' 1448. A Prince
1449 whoſe Crown may be truly termed a Crown of Thorns;
John the
and whoſe Affairs were ſo intricare and ſo bad, that
Greek
Emperor's 'twas enough to ſink the Spirit of a Man of a more
Death. vigorous Conſtitution than he was. His Character was
like his Circumstances, low ; and as he enjoy'd only
she
{
1
Chap. VIII.
Conſtantine Palæologus. 449
the Thadow of an Empire, ſo he may be ſaid to be on- A. D.
ly the ſhadow of an Emperor.
1444.
ArdCB6
rady
Conſtanrine Palæologus.
He left no Ilſue to poffefs his Dignity and Diſquiets,
to his Brother Conſtantine ſeiz'd on his Throne as his
rightful Inheritance : And had there been any one to have
difpured it with him, one would think that no Man would
have quarrell'd about an Empire that threaten'd everyDay
to involve hin), who enjoy'd it, in her approachingRuin.
Such as it was he took Poffeffion of it, and lent Ambaſ-
fadors to Amurath to defire the concinuance of the Peace
concluded berween him and his Brother. The Turk re.
ceiv'd the Ambaſſadors very favourably and granted their
requeſt, to which he was induc'd by ſome Diſgraces he
had lately met with from George Caſtriot, firnamd Scan-
derbeg King of Albania, who twice forc'd him to raiſe the
Siege of Croya, the Capital of his Kingdoin, at which
he was ſo enrag'd, that the firſt time he put himſelf
up
with ſome Mahometan Monks, and left the Government
to his Son Mahomet; and when he reaſſumd it, and was
the ſecond time driven from before the City, he fell ra.
Amurath
ving Mad, was carry'd to Adrianople and there expir'd, dyes Mäd.
A.D. 1450. In the 75th Year of his Age.
1-150
Thus fome Authors write concerning his Death, but Luencla.
Ducas inforins us that his end was quiet and peaceable; Chalcond.
a Blefling which Heaven beſtowd on him, for that he
never refus'd Peace to thoſe that askt ir of bim. Mabo- Mahomet
met the ſecond Son of Amyrath ſucceeded his Father in
IId.
his Throne, and ſwore by his Holy Propher to conrique His deſigns
the Peace concluded berween the late Sultan and the againſt
Emperor Fohn Palcologus. His firſt Expedition was Conftantia
againſt the King of Caramania, who ſubmitted to bim, cople.
and became his Vaffal; and having ſettled bis Affairs in
Aſia, he croſt the Helleſpont, reſolving to diffolve the
Greek Empire, and bring all the Weſtern Cities, with
Conftantinople their Capital, under his Subjection, His
firſt attempt upon it was to ſtreighten it, by building a
Fort within s Miles of it, which would give him the
Command of the Boſphorus, and enable him to exact
a Toll from all the European Merchants who dealt that
way. The Emperor earneſtly entreated him by his
Emballa-
450
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII,
A. D. Embaſſadors not to build the Fort, which would ruin
1450 the Trade of Conſtantinople ; Mahomet anſwer'd, Their
Maſter had not to do with ſuch an enſie Prince as his Pre.
His Info- deceſſor was; he would do what he pleas’d, and if ever
lence. any of them canse to hine again on the ſame Errand, they
ſhould be Flead alive.
'Tis impoflible to expreſs the Conſternation the Citi.
zens of Conftantinople were in, when they beard what
an inſolent Anſwer the Tyrant return'd. They ſaw
the Defolation of their City approaching, and their
Fears repreſented to their Imagination, the Horrors they
were ſuddenly to be Witneſſes of. Mahomet came in
Perſon to forward the Building of the Fort by his Pre.
fence, and ſuffer'd his Guards to Rob the poor Greeks,
as if they were in a Country he had already Conquer’d.
Conſtantine perceiving he was wholly bent on a War,
in his Deſpair, ſent to him to forbear going on with his
Works, or to renounce his Friendſhip, and profeſs to be
his Enemy, as he ſhew'd himſelf by his Actions. Ma-
homet deſpiſing his Remonftrances, went on with his
1452
Building, and in four Months time rais’d the Fort with
three Towers, each of which was like a Cittadel of it
ſelf. When the Work was done he went to Adrianople,
and ſtudy'd Night and Day how he might make him.
ſelf Maſter of the Imperial Ciry.
The Greek Emperor did all he could on his part, to
provide for a vigorous Defence. He plentifully ſupply'd
his Magazines with all ſorts of Proviſions.' He dif-
patch'd away his Ambaſſadors to the Pope, to implore
his Protection and the Affiftance of the Weſtern Poten.
Inſtead of which, the Roman Pontiff, who was
more deſirous of aggrandizing himſelf, than of preſery-
ing the Chriſtian Religion in the Eaſt, ſent Cardinal
Ifidore to ſee the Agreement, concluded at Florence, fally
Execured. This "Prelate coming empty handed, was
not at all welcome to the Gieeks, and rather haften'd
Diviſions the Loſs of the City than help to preſerve it. His Pre-
fence reviv'd the Animofities between the Faction
two Fati-
Thoſe that were for, and thoſe that were againſt the
ons inCon-
ftantino-
Re-union; whoſe Hatred was ſo great, they were eve-
ple, ballen ry Day ready to go to Blows, while Mahomet was ga-
the Ruin of thering Forces from all his Provinces, to lead them a-
the Greeks. gainſt their City, and put an end to the Chriſtian
Name in the Eaſt. The Grand Duke Notaras was the
Head
tates.
between
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Paixologus.
451
!
Head of the Schilmatical Party, as the Latins calld A. D.
the Greek Chriſtians; and he publickly declar’d, He had 1052
rather fee a. Turban than a Cardinal's Cap in Conſtanti-
nopie. Whether his Zeal went too far or not we ſhall
noc undertake to determine, it being a difficule Matrer
to decide which is worſe, Infidelity or Idolatry. 'Tis
the uſual Cuſtom of the Popiſh Emiſſaries, to fet Na-
tions at variance, to ſow Diviſions, and prepare King-
doms for the Hands of the Deſtroyer; and never did Oming 10
their infamous Devices do more Miſchief than now in the Pipijn
the City of Conſtantinople; where by the Cardinals 10. Emiliries.
trigues the Citizens were ſo divided, that they could not
join heartily in the commonCaule; which gave the Barba-
rians an Advantage that the Greeks could never recover.
The next Year is the laſt of the Greek Empre, a
1+52
Year that will ever be remember'd with Lamenticions,
by all thoſe thar wiſh well to the Chriſtian Religion,
for now the Infidels are to overwhelm it in the Ealt,
with a Torrent of Impiety and Infcielity. Mohome
order'd his great Artillery to be convey d towards Cora
ſtantinople, in the beginning of February, and 'twas the
middle of April before that prodigious Train could be
brought to the Camp near the City, where he arriv'd
himſelf about the ſame time, and encompaſtic by Land
with an Army of 300000 Men of ſeveral Nations,
Bulgarians, Servians, Macedonians, Germans, Bohemians,
Hungarians and Greeks; for Mabomet, like bis Ance-
ſtors, made it a part of his Politicks to hire Christians
to Fight againſt Chriſtians. Beſides there he had his
own Subjects of Aſia, Turks and Janiries, and a
Fleet of 300 Sail, to ſhut up the Citizens by Sez.
The Emperor Conſtantine defir'd Altistance of the
Genoueſe, and obtain d it privately; tho' theſe Italians
were ſo greedy of Gain, that they would go freely to
the Turk's Camp, fell thern Proviſions and Oyl, which
they us'd abour their Cannon to ſcour them after Firing
and the next Day they would enter the Ciry and raily
our to Combat with them. Conſtantine ſtopr all the
Ships that were of Service in the Port, of what Nati-
on ſoever, about Fifteen in number, and hir'd four great
Ships of the Genouej?, which were dayly expected from
Chios loaden with Neceſſaries; but the Turkiſh Fleet
ay now before the Chain that ſecur'd the Entrance in-
lo the Porr; and the Conftantinopolitains were in great
G
fear
1
1
452
The Roman Hiſtory. Chap. VIII.
A.D. fear that thoſe Supplies would be loft. The four Ships
1453 at laſt appeard in the Streights, together with a Greek
Ship bound from the Morea, with Corn for the Emperor's
uſe. The Sultam ran to the Sea ſide himſelf, and com-
manded his Admiral to take thoſe Ships or hinder their
entring the Port. The Turkiſh Ships were ſmall, and
theſe five Genoueſe and Greek Veſſels large. The Wind
blowing freſh, they made their way thro' the Turkiſh
Fleet, and ſunk the Barks which oppos d their Paflage.
The Tyrant was ſo angry with his Admiral, that he or-
derd him to be Baftinado'd ; and he perceiv'd if the
Town was to.be raken, it muſt be by his Land Forces.
The Greeks lifted up their Chain when the five Ships
approach'd, let them into the Port, and ſhut it up again;
to the great Mortification of the Infidels. Conſtantine
had about 9000 Men in his Pay, as well Greeks as La-
tins, and he gave the Command of them to Johannes
Juſtinianus, a Genoueſe Adventurer of a Noble Family.
The Grand Duke Notaras had soo Men under his Com-
mand, and with thele he march'd round the City every
Day to ſee that the Soldiers and Citizens, who were
poſted for the Defence of the Walls, did their Ducy.
About the beginning of May, the Turks began to Bat-
ter the Walls with their heavy Cannon, of which they
had one of a prodigious Size ; it was Caft by an
Hungarian Founder, who enter'd himſelf firſt in the Sere
vice of the Emperor, and had a ſmall Penſion, which
being ill paid he deſerted to the Turks, and was highly
Careſt and Rewarded by the Sultan, who ask'd him,
If he cou'd Caft a Cannon that ſhould beat down the Walls
of Conſtantinople, The Founder anſwer'd, He knew
A Cannon the thickneſs of the Wails exactly, and if they were as
of prodigi-Strong and as Solid as thoſe of Babylon, he would down
ousBigneſs with them. In three months time he caſt this monſtrous
Cannon ſo big, that 150 Yoke of Oxen were put to the
Carriage to draw it from Adrianople to the Camp. The
Founder made a Proof of it firſt from the Fort we have
mention'd, on a Venetian Ship in the Streight, the Ma-
fter of which refufing to pay Toll, the Gunner fir'd
at his Veſſel with his new Engine, and ſunk it with
one Ball. This Piece was planted againſt the Calega-
rian-Gate in the heart of the City, and over-againſt it
was Mahomet's Quarters with about 15000 Janizaries
,
The
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Palæologus.
453
The Aſiatick Troops were plac'd on his right Hand to- A. D.
wards the Boſphorus, and the Europeans on his left to 1453
wards the Haven. When the Citizens heard the dread.
ful Roar of the huge Cannon which we have mention'd,
they were terribly Frighted, and falling on their Knees,
Cry'd, Lord have Mercy upon us. They expos'd the
Image of the Virgin Mary, to whom they pay'd parti-
cular Worſhip, and ador'd her as their Patroneſs and the
Guardian of their City.
Tho' the Founder underſtood Caſting of Guns well,
yer he did not underſtand ſo well how to Fire them :
When he bad Shot at one Place, he would Fire again at
the ſame ; which the Ambaſſador of Fohn Huniades, then
in the Camp, perceiving, Laught at and told him, If he
intended to beat the Wall down, he muſt change his Bat-
tery from one place to another at ſuch a diſtance, and ſo to
a third; which with the other two might make a Triangle, John Hu-
and be pould find that that Triangle would fall preſently. niades's
His Advice was taken, and it ſucceeded, by which Ambafia
means a wide Breach was made ; and the ſame method dor, for-
wards the
being obſerv'd in other Places, more Breaches were
made, and all of them ſo large, that the Citizens found taking of
the City.
it almoſt impoſſible to Repair them.
We cannot but obſerve how acceffary the Chriſtians
were to their own Ruin, in their aſſiſting the Turks at
the Siege of Conſtantinople, with their Ammunition,
Advice and Intelligence. 'Mahomet began already to
fear what the Effects of the Siege would be,, and had
nor this Chriſtian Agenc put the Gunner in a way to
haften the Work, he might in a little time longer have
deſpair'd of ſucceeding. Huniades was a Man of great
Spirit and Ambition, more coverous of his own Glory
than the good of his Cauſe. 'Tis ſaid that when be The Reason
was once defeated by the Turks, at the time that he of it.
was Genoral of the Hungarian Armies under Ladiſlaus,
he mer with an old Man in his. Flight, to whom he com-
plain'd that Fortune bad forſaken the Romans to follow
the Ungodly. The old Man reply'd, know my son that
the Chriſtians all never be Proſperous till the Romans
are ruin'd, and the taking of Conſtantinople can only put
an end to their Misfortunes. Hunindes looking upon
himſelf to be the Man whom Heaven had delign'd ro
reſtore the Glory of the Chriſtians, wish'd for the ac-
COIN
Ducas.
Gg3
454
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII.
A. D. complishment of this Prophecy, and his Miniſter in the
1453 Turk's Camp, haften'd it by his Advice as much as in
him lay, if we may believe the Greek Hiſtorians.
Confran-
Fuftinian with the Imperial Guards, defended that
line ofers
to lay Ma part of the Walls which was near the Palace, and there
the Emperor fought in Perſon. But when he ſaw a
honiec
wherever Breach made there where neither Scythians, Turks nor
Tribute ke Arabians in many former Sieges could ever penetrate, he
molilit im- was allarin' at the Ruin that threaren'd him, and ſent to
pore o the Turk to bez a Peace, offering to pay him whatever
hii. Tribute !:e pleas'd to impoſe on him. The Tyrant an-
Vlaho-
fwer'd. 'Tis impoſible for me to retire, I'le take the Town,
met's $12- or the Town Maill take me, Aliv? or Dead. If you will
frer. lcave it, I will give you the Morea ; and other Provinces
to your Brethren, and we will be good Friends ; but if I
take it by Force, Tiu and Yours poall be put to the Sword,
the City I'le give to my Soldiers to be Plunder'ds and be
content my ſelf with an empty Place. Beſides that the
Emperor could not tell whither to go to be free from the
bitter Reproaches of both Chriſtians and Jews, had he
deliver'd up the City to the luậdels ; 'r was not in his
Power to do it if he had been ſo diſpos'd. His great
Officers and the Citizens would not have ſuffer'd it, fa
he was forc'd ro abide all Extreiniries.
Mahomet finding 'would be not only a very tedi.
olis, but a very doubtful and bloody Work for him to
a treinpt the Town by. Land, while the Greeks were Ma-
fters of the Harbour ; form'd a very bold Delign, which
was as Great and Extravagant, as his boundleſs Am-
bition, or the Valtneſs of his Soul. He cominanded all
the Woods behind Gálata to be felld, and the Ways to
be mended as well as they could, according to the Na-
ture, and Situation of the Gound. He then order'd the
leats of his Ships to be hali'd a fhoar, by certain Engines
which a Chriſtian Renagade invented for that purpoſe.
having ſeen ſomething of the ſame nature practis'd by
the Venetians in the Lake of Renaco. Eighty of theſe
Ships was in this manner drawn Over-land, with their
Sails flying, Druñas beating, and Trumpers founding,
into the Haven of Conſtantinople, which was eight
Miles off. The Chriſtian Galleys attempted to have
Burnt them as they were launching; but the Turks hav-
ing tmely notice of their Deſign by the Genoucse, fir'd
on
---
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Palæologuis. 455
on them as faſt as they approach'd, and thatter'd and A. D.
funk them. Thus they became Maſters of the Haven, 1453
and then Mahomet built a Bridge croſs it, with equal
Labour and Expedition, from Galata to Conftantinople;
over which thar part of the Army which lay encampt
near Galata, could paſs to the City Walls, and aſſault
it on that fide alſo.
The Town being now environ'd on all ſides, and e-
very thing prepar'd for a Storm, the Sultan ſend the laſt
Summons to the Emperor, to ſurrender; giving him Maho-
his Choice, To march out with his and bis Friend's Trea. met’s laſt
Sunimons.
Sures, and to have the City (par'd from Pillage ; or if he
ſtay'd a Storm, and was forç'd to yield, he and his Subjects
to be put to the Sword, their Goods plunder'd; and thoſe
that were not kill'd to be led into Captivity, and diſperſs'd
over the whole Earth The Emperor reply'd to this
dreadful Meffage, which the Tyrant had but too much
Power to put in Execution, If you will live in Peace Conftan-
with us as your Fathers did with ours, we ſhall humbly A- tine's Anna
dore the divine Mercy. Your Anceſtors regarded and ref-fwer.
pected ours as their Fatbers. They lookt upon our City as
their Country. Conſtantinople was their conſtant Azy-
lum in all their Misfortunes, and whoever of them dar d
to attack us, did not Live long after it. Keep the Terri-
tories and Cities mbich you have unjuſtly taken from us :
Impoſe what Tribute you pleaſe on us, and leave us in
Peace; who knows wherber you your ſelf may not be taken
before our City; as to delivering of it that does not de-
pend on us nor on the Inhabitants wholly, our common Refo-
lution is to Spare nothing for our common Defence.
The Greeks were not only ſurrounded with Cruel
and Blood-thirſty Men ; they were even now Rent and
Torn by Diviſions within. The Factions were as rani-
pant as ever, thoſe that had united with the Church of
Rome, flatter'd themſelves with Relief from the Latins,
and boaſted to the Schiſmaticks, . Stay till God has deſtroy'd
the Dragon that threatens to devour us, and then you ſhall Diviſions
ſee whether we are join'd with Azimites. A Name which ſtill in the
the pure Greeks gave the Latins, and thoſe that were
for the Union; whom the Schiſinaticks reproach'd for
calling down theſe terrible Judgments on all their Heads,
by their baſe compliance with impure Worſhip, and er-
roneous Doctrin. They refus'd to communicate with
City,
GE4
on
456
The Roman Hiſtory.
Chap. VIII.
A D. one another, tho they had realon to fear, they ſhould
145 not long enjoy the Bleſſing of their Holy Communion.
Fatal Infatuation! But ſuch is the Madneſs and Polly of
blind Zealors, Enemies to Charity and Moderation,
who had rather give themſelves up to Deſtruction, than
join heartily with their Neighbours in the common
Cauſe.
The length of the Siege began to cire the Beſiegers as
well as the Beſieg'd, and when they had lain about For-
ry five Days before the Cicy, 'twas rumour'd in the
Camp, that the Chriſtian Powers were advancing under
the Command of the famous Fohn Huniades, Prince of
Tranſilvania, to relieve Conſtantinople. This Report
threw them into ſuch Confternation, that they were
for breaking up their Camp, and raiſing the Siege;
railing at the Sultan, who they ſaid had led them to
Deſtruction. Mabomet allarm'd at this Sedition, com-
manded ir to be proclaim'd throughout the Camp,
That the Soldiers thould prepare to Storm the Breach,
and that he left to them all the Wealth of the City ; re-
ferving to himſelf only the bare Walls, Houſes, and
publick Buildings
The Greeks were very ill provided for a vigorous De-
fence, Their Courage was quite ſpent with their Fa.
tigues, and for want of Sultenance. The Mercenaries
alſo were mutinous, and refus'd to defend the Breaches
till they were Pay'd. The poor Emperor requefted of
the Citizens, with Tears in his Eyes, to lend him. Mony;
which they refuſing, he was forc'd to convert the Church
Plate and Jewels into Caſh to Pay off his Soldiers.
The Night before the Storm, Mahomet gave the Greeks
no reft, harraſſing them the more, that they might be
the leſs able to defend themſelves the next Day. Early
in the Morning on Sunday the 29th of May, 1453. he
divided his Army into two Bodies, and drew them up
froin the Palace to tbe Golden Gate. As ſoon as the Sun
Mahomet was up, the Trumpers founded, and the Tyrant putrig
himſelf at the Head of Ten Thouſand of his choicelt
gives a gen
meral Aja Soldiers, began the attack at the Breach at the Roman
Gate. He had no leſs than 100.00 Horſe, and 150000
ault.
Foor to ſupport him, beſides an infinite Number of
Soldiers and Seamen aboard his Fleet, who had Scaling
Ladders and Machines provided for them to aflaule the
City
1
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Palæologus. 457
City on the ſide of the Haven, The Emperor having A.D.
perform'd his Devotions, and implor'd the Divine Ar 1453
Giſtance in the Defence of the Holy City, went to the
Breach, and fought at the head of 3000 Italians and
French, under the Command of Fohannes Fuſtinianus.
Notaras was poſted with soo Men for the Defence of
the Palace; and 5oo Bow. Men were order'd to oppoſe
the Infidels on the hide of the Haven. Mahomet held a
Rod of Iron in his Hand to drive on his Soldiers to che
Charge, which was Hor and Bloody; but the Greeks
were at first Victorious, and repuls'd the Turks twice
or thrice ; till at laſt Fuſtinian was wounded in the
Thigh and in the Hand, with a Musker-mor ; the fighi
of his Blood and the pain of the Wound, were inſup-
portable to this Italian; He cry'd out to the Emperor,
Keep your Ground a little while, I le go and be Dreſt, and
return as ſoon as I can. He then commanded the Roman
Gase to be open'd, that his Men ſeeing there was no
hopes of their eſcaping might Fight more deſperately,
and withdrew from his Charge, to the great Diſcourage-
ment of the Emperor and the Soldiers, who however
Fought ic out with incredible Bravery, and made good
their Ground till fifty of the Barbarians perceiving a
Gare under ground to be open, enter'd at it, mounted
the Walls, and cur in Pieces thoſe that Fought upon
them. The Chriſtians ſurpriz'd to ſee themſelves ac-
tacke from within and without, made a weak Reſi-
ſtance after this, and the Turks applying their Scaling.
Ladders, eaſily got upon the Works, and bore down all
before them : The Chriſtians crowding into the City taken.
thro' the Carſian-Gate, were kill'd like ſo many Sheep
by the Infidels, or preſt to Death in their tumultuous
Flight; which 'tis ſaid was the Fate of the Emperor.
This is the Account of Conſtantine's Death by fomo
Authors, but Duras writes otherwiſe, That the Carfian.
Gate being quite ſtopt up with the Bodies of the Dead
and the Dying, the Turks enter'd at the Breach, and
Kill'd all that came in their way, which the Emperor
ſeeing, and deſpairing to eſcape, he Cry'd our in a la.
mentable Tone, what, is there no Chriſtian here that
will Cut off my Head? He had ſcarce ſaid it, when a
Turk who did not know him, ſtruck him in the Face,
ror kilfią
and before he could ſecond his Blow, another came ben
hind
The City
Tle [open
458
The Roman Hiſtory,
Chap. VIII.
2
A.D. hind him and gave him a Wound, of which he imme-
1453 diately Dyd. With him fell Theophilus Palæologus, a
famous Caprain of the Greeks, Francis Comnenus, Den
metrius Cantacuzenus and Nicephorus, his Son, Johannes
Dalmaticus, and others of the Nobility ; who Fighting
bravely for their Liberty and Religion, were Bury'd in
the Ruins.
About an Hour after Midnight, the Turks broke
through the Carſian-Gate, and between that and the Pa.
lace, killd Two Thouſand Soldiers. They were the
more Bloody in their Victory, becauſe they believ'd
chere could not be leſs than 50000 Men in Arms in the
City. When 'was nois'd about that the Infidels were in
the Town, the Inhabitants who liv'd at a diſtance,
could ſcarce believe it, but their Eyes were foon Wit-
oefles of the Truth of ir ; and they wanted no further
Conviction, when they ſaw their fellow Citizens run-
ning, cover'd with their Blood, before the Barbarians,
Who can expreſs the Horrors that enſu'd, of which all
other Sacks is but a faint Image? Men, Women and
Children, fled for Sanctuary to the Church of St. Sophia,
Tbe City where they reckon'd themſelves ſafe, being deceiv'd by
fickt. a falſe Prophecy, That the Turks Mould one Day enter
Conſtantinople, and kill all the Greeks as far as Conftan-
tine's Pillar, and there the Angel of the Lord ſhould
deſcend to put a ſtop to the Infidels, whom after that the
Chriftians ſhould not only drive our of Europe, but
out of the Provinces in Aſia co the Borders of Perſia.
The Great Church being beyond that Pillar, thither the
iniſerable Inhabitants filed, the women bearing their
Children in their Arms, and the young Men their Pa-
A few Days ago they would not have enter'd in-
to it, becauſe the Latin Service had been Celebrated
bere, and the Place prophan'd by it. Upon which a
Ducas, Greek Author thus Pathetically exclaims, Ah! Wretched
Greeks, now the Wrath of the Lord is pour’d down upon
you; you fly to that Church as to an. Azylum, which I'moa
Days ago you lookt on as tbe retreat of Hereticks; and not
one of you would have enter'd it, for fear of being defild
by the Communion of those that had Confented to the Re-
union. Theſe dreadful Effects of divine Vengeance which
overtake you cannot foften your hard Hearts nor incline
you to Peace : For if amidſt theſe dire Allarms, the An-
rents.
..
gel
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Palæologus. 45.9
gel of the Lord mould deſcend, and ſay to you, Conſent
A.D.
to the Union, and I will Exterminate your Enemies.
1453
You would reje&t his Offers, or not accept of them with
Sincerity. This may ſerve to thew us how far Pride
and falſe Zeal, may carry ſome Chriſtians; and what
a terrible Judgment it is upon a Nation, to be given
up to Malice and Envy, and to be Enemies to Charity
and Peace. The Spirit of all ſuch Men may be ſeen
by that of the Greeks, and pray Heaven their Lor may
not be the ſame.
Notaras, the Head of the Schiſmaticks, was taken
Priſoner; and the Tyrant bought his Life of thoſe that
took him, Commanding that he ſhould not be hurt nor
any of his Family. The Wretches that ſhut themſelves
up in the Cathedral, were all either Murder'd or Cou-
pled like Dogs, and led away into Captivity. Maſters
and Miſtreſſes were bound with their Slaves in the ſame
Chains, Judges and Porters, Nuns and Debauchees,
Clergy and Laity, a horrid levelling, were ry'd toge-
ther, and driv'n away in Bonds by the inſulcing Bar-
barians : Crying in vain to Heaven for Help, and ro
the Conquerors for Pity.
Mahomet accompany'd with his Vifiers and Baffa's,
made his entry into the City the next Day, and went
to the Church of St. Sophia; where he commanded one
of his abominable Prieſts to mount the Pulpit, and ſay
their lewd Prayers to their Propher ; Blaſpheming the
Mahomeo
God of the Chriſtians by their impious Devocions, in
enters the
the Place where the Day before they ſpilt the Blood of Great
his Saints. The Tyrant himſelf went up to the Holy Church,
Altar, and perform'd the obſcene Myſteries of his Rea
ligion. When he came out of the Church, he ſent for
Notaras, the Grand Duke, comforted him with fair
Words, and gave him a Thouſand Afpres; vilited his
Mother, and ſpoke very obligingly to her; but the
next Day he order'd his, and his Son's Heads to be Cut
off, and his Mother and his Daughter to be carry'd
away Captives to Adrianople. The Body of the lare
Emperor being found, and the Head brought to Maho- Ducas.
met, he commanded it to be nail'd to the Pillar call'd the
Conftan
Auguſteon, where it remain'd all that Day.
it was taken down, flead and the Skin ſtuffc with Straw, dead Endy
which was carry'd about to the Courts of the Mahome-inſulted
talin hin.
At Night tines's
>
5
460
The Roman Hiſtory, Chap. VIII.
A. D. tan Princes in Aſia, as a Trophy of his Victory over
1453 the Chriſtian Empire in the Eaſt. All the great Men
and Oficers that were ſpar'd by the Soldiers who took
them, were Executed by the common Hangman; and
the City of Conſtantinople was left without a Chriſtian
Inhabitant. Three Days after the Tyrant went to Ga.
lata, örder'd the Walls of the City to be demolili’d,
but would not ſuffer the Genoueſe to be Plunder'd, fear-
ing to offend the Chriftian Kings and States in the Weſt,
who took the Fate of their Greek Brethren ſo little to
Heart, thar moft of them fent Ambaſſadors to Mahomet,
ro Congratulate him on his Succeſs. After the Infidels
had, for four Days together, cir'd themſelves with plun-
dering the Wealth of the City, which was ſo great,
that when the Turks talk of a Man's growing Rich on
a ſudden, 'tis a Proverb among them to ſay, He has
been at the Sack of Conftantinople. The Sultan quieted,
as well as he could in fo Ahort time, the unruly Soldiers;
promis'd his Protection to all that would return thither
again, and the Liberty of their Religion. He ſent for
Inhabitants from the little Chriſtian Empire of Trape-
zond in Aſia, to Repeople it; but never will it recover
irs ancient Splendor. The City being ever ſince like a
Skeleton of what it was in the Days of the Chriſtian
Emperors. Thus did the Metropolis of the Roman or
Greek Empire, after it had been the Imperial Seat of
the Roman Emperors One Thouſand, One Hundred
Twenty Two Years, become ſubject to the Turks on
the 29th of May, in the Third Year of the Reign of
Sultan Mahomet II. The 'Twenty Firſt of Frede.
rick III. Emperor of Germany.' The Thirty Second
of Henry VI. King of England. The Thirty Firſt of
Charles VII. King of France. And the Seventh of the
Pontificate of Pope Nicholas V. A. D. 1453.
We bave attended the Fate of Rome in its various
Changes, from the Origin to the Diſſolution of her Em-
pire. We have ſewn how the Romans, whoſe Territo-
ries were at firſt confind to the Walls of Old Rome, ex-
rended their Dominion over half the World ; and we
have follow'd them by many ſurprizing Revolutions,
till we left them Mur up again within the Walls of the
Nem. As they roſe froin a Crew of Slaves to be Ma-
iters of the beſt part of the Globe; ſo they fell from
thciş
$
Chap. VIII. Conſtantine Palæologus. 461
ans
their extream Elevation to their firſt miſerable Conditi- A. Do
00,
to be Slaves and Vagabonds in the Earth. And 1452
as the firſt Conſtantine founded the Imperial City of
Conſtantinople, the laſt Conflantine loft it to the Barbari.
The New Rome having this Reſemblance with the
old, to have her Empire Founded and Deſtroy'd by
Princes of the fame Name. Auguftus rais'd the Domini-
on of Old Rome, and Auguftulus the Diminutive of A4-
guſtus, abandon'd it to the Rule of Barbarians. Hap-
pier in her Fall than her Siſter Conftantinople. The old
Romans chang’d their native Tyrants for foreign Princes,
who Governd them like true Fathers of their Country.
But the nero Romans or rather Greeks, were at once
Conquer'd, and enſlav'd with Slavery worſe than Ægyp-
tian Bondage. From all which, as far as we are allow'd
to judge of the Ways of Providence, we may Infer,
Thar the divine Vengeance, tho' flow, is ſure; and Hea-
ven will not always forbear with thoſe that Provoke it
like the Greeks, by their Pride, Impiety, Obſtinacy,
want of Charity to their Fellow Chriſtians, and too
grear Complacency to Infidels and Idolaters.
We ſhall conclude the whole Work with the Words
of a Greek Writer, which we have Tranſlated; who
Liv'd then, and was a Wirneſs of the Deſolation of the
City.
Tremble, Oh Sun! And thou, ob Earth Tremble!
Dacasa
Mourn for the utter Ruin of our Nation, which has
fall’n upon us for our Sins. We are unwortly to
look up to Heaven: Let us Proſtrate our Selves on
the Ground, and Cry, Thou art Juft, Oh Lord!
And Righteous are thy Judgments. We have
Sin'd more; we have broken thy Laws more than
any other People; all thy Chaftiſements are Juſt:
But ſpare us, Oh Lord! Spare us out of the Abutie
dance of thy Mercy.
:
F I N I S.
:
IN
>
Τ Η Ε
CONTENT S.
CH
H A ??. 1. From the Depoſition of Irene and the Ada
vincement of Nicephorus, to the Reign of Baſilius tko
Macedonian, containing the ſpace of 65 years. Page 1
CHA P. II. From the Reign of Bafilius the Macedonian,
to the Deatb of Conſtantine IX. the laſt Emperor of his Race,
containing the space of 161 Years.
P. 46.
CH A P. III. From the Death of Conſtantine IX. the
laft Emperor of the Race of Bafilius the Macedonian, to the
Refignation of fraacius Comnenus, and the Advancement of
Conſtantine Ducas, containing the ſpace of 32 Years.. P.97.
CHAP. IV. From the Reſignation of Iſaacius Comnenus,
and the Advanceñirent of Conſtantine Duca, to the Reign of
Alexius Comnenus, containing the ſpace of 22 Years. P. 113.
CHAP. V. Front the beginning of the Reign of Alexius
Comnenus, to his Death, containing the ſpice of 37 Years.
P. '148.
CHA P. VI. From the Death of Alexius Comnenus, to the
Expulſion of the Greek Emperors out of Conftantinople by the
Weſtern Chriſtians, containing the ſpace of 86 rears, P. 221.
1
CHA P. VII. From the, expulſion of the Greek Emperours
out of Conſtantinople by the Weſtern Chriſtians, to the taking
of the City by Michael Palæologus, and the Expulſion of the
French, containing the ſpace of 57 rears.
P. 331.
CHA P. VIII. From the taking of Conftantinople by
Michael Palæologus, and the Expulsion of the French, to the
taking of the City by Mahomet the Second, and the Death of
Conftantine Palxologus, the laſt Greek Emperor, contain-
ing the ſpace of 192 Years.
THE
P. 373•
INDEX to the Fourth and Laſt
Volume of the Roman Hiſtory.
Aloes Vices, Page 59.
ther, 277
319
Murdered by Murtzuphi-
A.
lus,
325.
Alexius V. Murtzuphilus Chofen
Emperor by the People, 325. Seiz'd
Lexander the Son of Bafilius, and blinded by Alexius 1II. 333.
his Vices, Page 59. And Alexius, Several Impoſtors of thar
Death,
60.
Name,
298. 299, 306.
Alexius Comnenus Suppreſes Ruſe- Andronicus Comnenus, His For-
lius, p. 130. Fights Bryennius, tunes, 263 to 270. He grows Tya
136. Routs him, 137. And Ba-
tannical, 271. Proclaimed Empe-
filacius, 139. Refuſes to Fight a ror by the Rabble, 273. Cromn'd,
gainſt Nicephorus Melifenus,
ibid. His whole Family bad, 276.
140. Conſpires against Botoniates, His Cruelty to Iſaac Angelus's Mo-
141. 142. Saluted Emperor, 144.
His Negligence and
His Wars with the Normans, 151 Stupidity, 232 His Character
10 161. He diſcovers a dangerous ibid. The Indignities he ſuffered,
Conſpiracy, 177 to 179. Fealous 286. His Death,
287
of the Princes of the Croiſade, 187. Andronicus II. Palæologus, his W 1!
His Agreement with 'em, 193. with the Catalan Mercenaries ,
Gets Nice from thera, 195. 196. 246 to 249. He quarrels with his
He abandons them, 201. Oppoſes Grandor Andronicus III. 350.
them openly, 204. His IVars with Calls in the Turks, 352. Depos!
Bohemund, 209 to 212. His
by bini, 356, His Death. 419.
Death, 217. His Character, 218.
His Charzeker,
4200
Alexias 11. Comnenus Strangled by Andronicus III Palæologus leaves
Andronicus Comnenus, p. 274
Enters Conftan.
Alexius III. Angelus Conſpires a tinople, 356.
His Deuth 191.1
gainſt his Brother Jlaac, P. 303:
Cburater,
421.
Saluted Emperor, ibid. His Wife Amurath 1. A good Prince, 436.
Euphroſynes Character, 305. Pays Amurath II. Routs the King of Hun-
the German Emperor Tribute, 308
gary, 448. Dies Mad,
44.9.
And the Turks, 312. His Stupi- Anna Comnena vainly Flutters ber
dity, 315,- His Cowardice, 313.
Father Alexius in her Hiſtory, 171.
His Flight, ibid.
Subdues fome 218. Her Reflexions on the Popiſh
Cities, 333,
Betrays his son-in-
Prieſts, 192. Her Intrigues to get
Law Theodore Laſcaris, 336.
the Enpire for her Husband Bry-
Alexius 19. Angelus flies to Sicily ennius,
219. 221.
P. 313. Proclaimed Emperor, 316,
Antiost:
the Court, 351.
1
Ί Ν D Ε Χ.
Cæſar, 43.
)
Antioch taken by the Romans, 74. them Blinded, 92. They ſubmii
to the Roman Emperor, 94. 102.
B.
C.
Aldwin IX. Earl of Flanders,
Choſen Emperor of Conſtan Annon one of a prodigious size,
tinople, 329. His Charuter, 330.
452.
His Wars with the King of Bulga- Charlemagne nis League with them-
ria, 334. Piscruel Death, 338, fidels,
4.
Baldwin 11. Goes into the weſt to Conftantine VIll. or the VIl. Accord-
Sollicite Sucours, 352.
Pawns ing to fome Autbors, loves Reading,
the Greek Relicks to the King of 67. Poyfon'd by his Sons Procure-
France, 355.
And lis Son to a ment, 70. bis Charafter,
71.
Merchant of Bruges, 370.
Dri-Conftantine IX. Succeeds his Brober
ven out of the Eaſt,
372. Bafilius, 95. bis Character, ibid.
Barbaroſa Frederick, tales Phillip-
his Death,
97.
popolis, 295. Dye's in Aſia, 297. Conſtantine X. Monomacus marrys
Bardanes, Siluted Emperor, 3. the Empreſs Zoe, 103. bÅ Death
Balilius the Macedonian, His Birth and Character,
108.
and riſe, 36. Murders Bardas Conftantine XI. Ducas his good
Ajociated with Qualities, 113. Grows Covetous,
Michael, 44. Kills him, 45. His 114. his Death and Charaéter
good Government, 47. Xiu'd as
116.
be mas Hunting, 50.
His Cha- Conſtantine XIl. Palxologus, ac-
railer,
51. cording to come the XI. to others
Bafilius II. Bulgarotanus Conquers the XIII. and to others the XV. the
the Bulgarians and Triumphs, 94. lalt Emperor of Conftantinople,
His Death and Character, 95. offers to p.ay Mahomet what Tri-
Bajazet grows Formidable in Europe, bute he pleased, 454. bis Anſwer
438. Beſieges Conftantinople, to Mahomet's lift Summons, 455.
439. Defeats Sigiſmund King he is Killid, 457. , Mahomet In-
of Hungary, 440. bis Pride, 441. ſults his dead Body,
459.
his Misfortunes and Death, 442. Conftantinople Burnt by the French
One of bis Sons turns Chriſtian, or Latins, 320 Befiegød by Ma-
444. homet II. 451 to 457. The Falti-
Bohemund takes Antioch, 198 10 ons within it haſten its Ruin, 4550
201. Wars with Alexius Comne-
Taken by the Turks, 357. And
Sackt,
nus, 204. A Stratagem of his to
458.
escape Alexius, 206. ke ſubmits Crete taken by the Saracens, 55. Re-
and Dyes,
covered by the Romans, 206.
Bryennius Nicephorus uſurps, 131. Crumnus King of Bulgaria Beſieges
Taken and Blinded,
137
Conſtantinople, 16. Defeated by
Leo,
18.
Branas vfurps, is Defeated and Slain,
292. Croiſade. The Firſt, 184. The se-
Bulgarians Converted to Chriſtianity, cond, 234. The Third, 294. The
41. Their Il’ars with tle Romans,
315.
52. 54, 65, 77, 88. 15000 of
D,
212.
Fourth,
I N D E X.
!
1
D
FR
John Zimiſces fortunate in Afia, 17,
D.
Murders Nicephorus Phocas, 76.
Is crowned Emperor, 77. His Shes
celles in Bulgaria, 7810 81. His
Andalo Henry, Doge of Ve Triumph, 82. He is poiſoned, 84.
nice, forms ibe Latin League His Character, ibid.
againſt Conftantinople, 314. John II. Calo Johannes, his Wars
Diftra the Siege of
79.
with the Turks, 223.
With the
Ducaś Andronicus flies to the Sara Scythians, 224. The Servians,
cens, turns Mahometan and Re ibid. And Hungarians, 225. be
pents, 57. Conſtantine Rebels Triumphs, ibid. The Turks afraid
and is Sliin, 61. John Proclaim'd of him, 220. Killed by an Aici-
Emperor by the Rebel Ruſelius, dent as he was bunting, 230. bis
128.
Speech before his Death, ibid. His
Charaiter, 232.
F.
John II. Ducas, invades the Latin
Empire, 346. Defeats the Latins,
347. Makes Peace with them,
Rench,a Count, his Infolence, 194. 348. Grows formidable in Eu-
Their Cruelty and Impiety, 328. rope, 353. bis Amours and Rep211-
337. They fles A Greek Ambala-
tance, 354, 355. bis Death and
Aor alive, 374.
Their Treacher Charafter, 356.
sy.
326. John IV. Laſcaris, blinded by Micha-
el Palæologus, 375. Offers to re-
G.
ſign the Empire, 398.
John V. Palæologus, his 14'er with
Cantacuzenus, 423 10 429. De-
Odfrey of Bulloigne arrives at pored and reſtored by his Son, 438.
Conſtantinople, 193. Paf-
bis Death and Character, 439.
ſes into Aſia, 194. Choſen King John VI. Cantacuzenus, his Wars
of Jeruſalem,
204. with John V. 424 10 429. bis Aco
Greeks look upon the Latin Chrifti, count of his abdicating the Empire,
Ants as Idolaters and Hereticks, 188. 433. Orher Accounts of it, 434
bis Death, Char after and Writings
H.
435.
John VII. Palæologus, pays Amu-
rach the Sultan Tribute, 446. Goes
Enry the Emperor Baldwins 10 the Council of Florence, ibid,
Brother ſucceeds him, '338. bis Death, 448.
His Death,
343. Iſaacius Comnenus defeats Michael
Huniades John, bis Ambaſader to the fixth's Army, 111. Chofsx
Mahomet forwards tbe taking of Emperor, 112. Abdicates the Em•
Conftantinople, and why, 453.
Ifaacius II. Angelus, choſen Empe-
I.
for by the People, 285. Loſes
their Favour 293. his Male- Ado
miniftration, 301. he is depoſed
[Eruſalem taken by the Latins, 204. and blinded, 304, Reſtored, 183,
Image Worſhip Condemn'd' by '
Council, 19.
1922.
G
H Н
pire, ibid.
".;
1
L
ed, 103
I N D E X.
Kaacius Comnenus reizes Cyprus, garians, 14. Thruſt into a slis.
278. Taken Priſoner by Richard niftery, 15.
ting of England, 297, Poyfore:t, Michael II. Balbus, condemned to be
307.
Burnt, 21. Crowned, 22. His
Death and Character, 27.
L.
Michael III. Ebrioſus, his il Edu-
cation, 35. He is murdered, 45.
Michael IV. the Paphlagonian, his
Atins declare War with Alexi Amours with the Empreſs Zoe ,
us Murtzuphilus, 326. They 100. He marries ber, ibid. Gromos
take Conftantinople, and chufe an deformed, 101. Retires into 4
Emperor of their own Nation 327 Convent, 102.
10329. Divide the Roman En Michael V. Galaphates, thruſt: Zoe
pire, 332. Lofe all to Michael into a Monaſtery, 102. He is blind-
Palxologus, 372.
Leo V. againft Image-Worſhip, 19. Michael Vi. Stratioticus, retires in-
Excommunicated by the Pope, 20, to & Convent, III.
Murdered, 21.
Michael VII. Ducas, his Avarice,
Leo VI. wly called Philoſophus, 51. 131. He abdicates the Erapire, 133.
Delires Aid of the Saracens, 54. Is made Biſhop of Epheſus, ibid.
Excommunicated by the Patriarch, Michael VIII. Palæologus, his vari-
55. His Death and Character, 58, ous Fortunes and Dangers, 358 to
Leo Diogenes, an Impoſtor, Wars 361. Saluted and Crowned Empe-
with Alexius Comnenus, 181, ror, 367, 368.TakesConftantinople
182. Taken and Blinded, 183, from the Latins, 372. Blinds the
Leo Phocas ujips and is blinded, young Emperor, 375. He is Ex-
62, 64
communicated, 377. His Submiſli-
Leo Tornicius fiirps, is taken, and on to the See of Rome, 385 to 389.
ofes kis Eyes, 104.
He repents of it, 392. His Death
and Character, 396.
M.
N.
Ahomet I. iz good! Prince, 443.
. a Icephorus, the Chancellor, grows
zainst Conftantinople, 419. He Tyrannical , 2. Coricludes
ates the City, 457.
Peace with Charlemagne, ibid.
Baniaces ufurps, 103. Dies ſudden Pays the Saracens Tribute, 5. He
is killed, 1o.
Hianichæani, 100000 deſtroyed, 38. Nicephorus II. Phocas, his succesſes
Manuel Comnenus, kis Cruelty to the and Triumph, 72. Saluted Empe-
Larin Pilgrims, 235. His Treache ror, 73. His Conqueſts, 74. And
His unfortunate Expe ill Adminiſtration, 75.
dition in Afia, 251 to 257. His Nicephorus II). Botoniates, ufurps,
Charakter, 260. And Deuth, 262. 132.
Succeeds Michael Ducas,
Manuel Il. Palæologus, bis Death 134. Retires into a Monastery, 147-
and Character, 445;
His Stupidity, ibid.
Michael Rhangabe, his Deſcent and Nicephorus Diogenes, his Misfor-
Fortune, 12. Defeated by the Bul-
funes, 177 to 179. His Learning
Nice
N
oy, ibid.
ry, ibid.
180.
I N D E X.
P.
S.
j
liſhes the Croiſade, 186. Pretendo S Amonas a Saracen in Favour with
Nicephorus Meliſlenus, uſurps, 140. Romanus III. Argyrus, marries Zoe,
Submits to Alexius Comnenus, 96. Prociaimed. Emperor, 97.
157.
Mardered, 99
Romanus IV. Diogenes, bis Trial,
117. he Marries the Empreſs and
is Crowned · 118, Defeated
and taken by the Turks, 121.
Eter, Emperor of Conſtantino Oppoſes Michael Ducas, 124. 19
ple, Nain, 344.
taken and blinded, 125. bis Deatb
Peter, the Hermit, is the cauſe of the and Character, ibid.
firſt Cruſade, 185. Ambitious, Ronzerius hired by Andronicus II.
188. Falls on 'the Hungarians, 343. Attacks the Greeks, 345.
189. He is unfortunate in Aſia, Slain by them, 346.
191.
Ruſeljus & French Mercenary, revolts,
Phocas Bardas, reduced by Bardas
127. Routs the Romans, 128.
Sclerus, 83. Uſurps again, 89. Suppreft, 130.
Takes and impriſons Sclerus, ibid.
Falls dead from his Horſe, 90.
Pilgrims, their Wickedneſs, 185. And
Cruelty, 189
Pope, one Excommunicated, 40. Pub-
Leo VI. 54. bis Treichery, 56.
to the Supremacy of the Greek And Diſgrace, 58.
Church, 340. The Vanity of bis Samuel, King of Bulgaria, over-
Pretences, 341. Perſwades the tbrows Balilius II. 83. Defeated;
King of Hungary to perjure bim 91. his Death, 92.
self, 448.
Saracens, defeated by a Stratagen of
Popiſh Emiſſaries are the Ruin of the
their own, 101.
Greek Empire, 451.
Schiſm in the Greek Church, 40. It
encreaſes, 48.
Sclerus Bardas reduces Bardas Pho-
R.
cas, 83. Uſurps, 85. Succeeds,
ibid. Driven out of the Empire,
Eunion, a falſe, between the 87. Returns, 89. Is pardoned,
Greek and Latin Churches, 90.
341. Another, 385. Another, Scythians at 1Var with the Romans,
447. The Greeks repent of it, 105, 105. 500000 of them iné
397. 447.
vade the Empire, 114. Roured by
Richard, King of England, takes the Hungarians, 115. lovade the
Cyprus, 297
Empire again, 165. Defeat the
Robert Courtenay is made Emperor Romans, ibid. Are overthropune
of Conftantinople, 344.
His and retire, 166. They renew the
Vive's Noſe cut off, 349. His Ilir, 167 to 171.
Death, ibid.
Sicily, loſt to the Saracens, 26.
Romanus Lacapenus Try'd and Con. Siméon, Kirg of Bulgaria, bis 11-
demned, 62. Crown'd, 64. Thruft terview with Romanus Lacepe-
into 4 Monaſtery,.68.
nus, 65.
Romanus II. Puer, his ill Education, Stauracius faluted Emperor, 11 Re-
71. His Death, 72,
ſigns the Empire to Michael Rhan-
gabe, 12.
Theo
R
IN DE X.
7
mans, ibid. They demand Tribute
T.
of them, 105.
A Cbisoux turns
Chriſtian, 162. They are beaten
by the Latins in tbree Battles, 1976
Heodora reſtores Image-Wor They make a defeent on Thrace,
ship, 35. Shut up in a Mona 289. Diviſions among them, 311,
Stery, 40.
Tributary to the Tartars, 311,
Theodora proclaimed Empreſs, 108. They srt festle in Europe, 436.
ber Death, 109.
Theodorus Laſcaris Ries from the
W.
Latins into Afia, 328. Concludes
a Peace with them, 339. His Death
and Character, 345.
Alter, the Monleſs, leads an
Theodorus II.' Lafcaris
, bis Severi Army to Conftantinople
ty, 359, 361, 362. His Sickneſs, the first Cruſade, 189.
361. His Deab and Character,
362.
Z.
Theophilus puniſhes the Murderers of
Leo V. 28. bis Fuſtice, 29. De-
feated by the Saracens twice, 30. OE merits Romanus Argy
bis Death, 33. And Chara&er, 34. rus, 96. Hares him, and wohy,
Theophobus proclaimed Emperor by 99. Murders him and marries
the Perſians, 32. Put to Dearb, Michael the Paphlagonian, 100.
33.
She is thrust into a Conveni, 102.
Thomas faluted Emperor, 24. Taken Taken thence by the People, 103.
and Executed, 25.
She marries Conftantinc Monoma-
Turks, the riſe and growtb of their cus, ibid. Her Death, ro8.
PodaCr; 104. Tbey defeat the Re-
z
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