Abyssin

Sources from old books:

1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.

THE KINGDOMES OF THE ABISSINES AND CONGƲS. (Book Abissines) THE Kingdome of the Abissines is called Aethiopia, which Ptolemy placeth beneath Aegypt. The Moores doe call the Prince thereof Asiela Bassi, and in the Aethiopian language he is called Iohn Belul, that is, High and Precious, not Presbyter, as some are of opinion. Hee glorieth that he is descended from the stocke of David, and this is his Title. N. N. The supreme Governour of my Kingdomes, the onely beloved of God, the Pillar of Faith, descended of the stock of Judah, the Sonne of David, the Sonne of Salomon, the Sonne of the Pillar of Sion, the Sonne of the seed of Jacob, the Sonne of Mary, the Sonne of Nahu according to the flesh, the Sonne of the Saints Peter and Paul, according to Grace, the Emperour of the higher and lower Aethiopia, and of my large Kingdomes, Iurisdictions, and Territories; King of Noa, Caffares, Fatiger, Angola, Baru, Balignaca, Adea, Vangua, and Goyama, where there are the Spring-heads of Nilus, &c. Hee is without doubt one of the greatest Monarchs of the world, whose Territories doe lye betweene the two Tropickes, even from the red Sea to the Aethiopian Ocean. And that we may describe the bounds of his Empire more accurately: on the North it hath Aegypt which is subject to the Turkes: on the East the red Sea, and the Bay of Barbery: on the South it is encompassed with the Mountaines of the Moone, on the West it is bounderd with the Kingdome of Congus, the River Niger, the Kingdome of Nubia, and the River Nilus. In which bounds are contained ancient Aethiopia, below Aegypt. Troglodite, and the Cinnamon-bearing Country, and part of the innermost Libya. The Country in general (as appeareth by those who have taken a late view of it) is most fruitfull. There is a double Summer, which almost lasteth all the yeere, so that in some Fields they are sowing, and in others they are mowing at one and the same time. And in some parts Corne, and Pulse is sowed every moneth. This Country hath but little Wheate, but plenty of Barley, Millet, Vetches, Beanes, and other Pulse. It hath abundance of Ebon wood and Indian Pepper, Cinamon, and Ginger. It hath also great store of Sugar Canes, but they know not how to boyle and refine the Sugar. Here are many Vines, but they use no Wine except it be in the Kings or the great Patriarks Court. It hath also great store of Oranges and Lemmons, and also great store of Honey. For Bees doe breed even in their houses. So that they make such store of Waxe, as serveth all the Country to make Candles, without Tallow or Suet. This Country hath also Hempe and Flaxe, but the Inhabitants have not the Art to make Linnen cloth of it, and therefore they make their cloth of Cotton wooll, of which there is great store here. They have Mettals, as Gold, Silver, and Brasse: but they have not the art to refine it. Moreover, this Country hath all kindes of Beasts and Birds, as Elephants, Lions, Tigers, Leopards, Rhinocerites, Apes, and Harts, (which is against the opinion of the ancients, who deny that Affrick hath any Harts) also Oxen, Sheepe Goates, Asses, Cammels, Horses, and they are oftentimes much troubled with Locusts. This Country was heretofore governd onely by Queenes. So that wee read in the Old Testament that the Queene of Sheba of the South, came to King Salomon to heare his admirable wisedome, about the yeere of the world 2954. This Queenes name was Maqueda. The Aethiopian Kings doe beleeve that they are descended of the Stock of David, and the Family of Salomon. And therefore they are wont to stile themselves the Sonnes of David and Salomon, and of the holy Patriarcks, because they are come of their Seed. For they doe faine that the aforesaid Queene Maqueda had a Sonne by Salomon, whom they called Meilech. And afterward he was called David. He according to their fiction, when he had attained to 20. yeeres of age, was sent by his Mother to his Father Salomon, that he might instruct him in all profitable and wholesome learning and wisdome. Which as soone as Meilech or David had attained unto, he chose many Priests and Earles out of every one of the 12. Tribes, and so returning back to the Kingdome of Aethiope, he tooke upon him the government thereof. And hee brought in with him the old Law and Circumcision. These were the first beginnings of the Jewes Religion in Aethiopia, and they say that untill this day there are none admitted to any Office in Court, or Canonicall place, unlesse he be descended from the Jewes. And by them the knowledge of God was propagated in Aethiopia, and tooke roote, and so was derived and spred abroad by succeeding ages. For the Aethiopians had the Bookes of the Prophets, and went to Hierusalem to adore and worship the true God of Israel. Which may bee understood by the story of Queene Iudiths Eunuch, who is properly called Iudith. For hee 10. yeeres after the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, came 240. miles journey to Ierusalem. And when he had there worshipped God, and was returning home sitting in his Chariot, he read the Prophet Esaiah. And so Philip one of Christs Disciples by Gods command was sent unto him. And when they came both to the Citty Bethzur, three Miles from Ierusalem: there the Eunuch spyed a Spring or Well at the foote of the Mountaine, with the water whereof he was baptized by Philip. But as soone as the Eunuch returned into Aethiopia, he baptized the Queene, and a great part of her houshold and people. From which time the Aethiopians began to be Christians, and alwaies afterward profest the Christian Faith. There are few Citties in all this Empire, so that they dwell in Villages. The chiefe Kingdomes belonging to the higher Aethiopia, which are for the most part subject to Prester Iohn, are these following. The Kingdome of Barnagues, which is enclosed with the River Abanthus, and the red Sea: the chiefe Citty is Beroae or Barnae, which Ptolemy calls Colone: here the Viceroy liveth, who payeth yeerely to the King of the Abissines an 150. Horses for a trib•te, with silke and other commodities, and 1000. Ounces of Gold to the Turkes Bashaw. Tigremaon which is next unto the River Marabus, and the red Sea, doth pay yeerely to the King 200. Horses, which are brought out of Arabia. Unto this Kingdome the Kingdome of Tigrai is subject, in which there is the Citty Caxumo or Cassume, which was heretofore the Seate (as appeareth by their Annalls) of the Queene of Sheba; and afterward of Queene Candaces. The Kingdome of Angote hath no money, and therefore they use in stead thereof pieces of Salt and Iron. Amara is so called from the Mountaine in which the Emperours Sonnes are kept with a strong Garrison, that after the Emperours decease the Heire may be brought out. There are two memorable Rivers in this Kingdome which doe glide thorow Aethiopia; Abanhi, which Ptolemy calls Astapus, and Tacassi which Ptolemy calls Astraboras, into which many other Rivers doe runne. The Fountaine of Abanhi is the great Lake of Barcena, lying under the Aequinoctiall, in which there are many Ilands. This Lake Ptolemy calls Coloe Palus, or the Lake Coloe. The Inhabitants doe professe the Christian Religion, and the chiefe Articles of their Faith are these. They beleeve in one God Creator of Heaven and Earth, distinguisht into three Persons. God the Sonne begotten of the Father from all Aeternity: who for our sakes tooke flesh upon him, was dead, and rose againe; and God the Holy Ghost proceeding from the Father and the Sonne. This is the summe of their Religion. They doe joyne the Old Testament with •he New, so that they follow some Judaicall, and some Christian Rites and Ceremonies. On the eight day they circumcise all their Infants both Male and Female. But they thinke that Circumcision availeth nothing to salvation, but onely Faith in Christ Jesus. But they baptize their Male children on the 40. day, and their Females on the 80. day, unlesse the weakenesse of the childe doe require haste. They every yeere baptize them anew, both those that are come to ripenesse of yeeres, and also Infants, saying these words. Ego te baptizo in nomine Patris, Filij, & Spiritus Sancti. That is, I baptize thee in the Name of the Father, the Sonne, and the Holy Ghost. And they doe religiously keepe this custome from their Ancestors, not to extenuate or weaken the first baptisme, but that they may have absolution from their sinnes every yeere. They receive the Lords Supper sub utraque specie, or in both kindes, both the Lay-people and the Clergie. They doe not esteeme or use Confirmation and extreme Unction as a Sacrament. They keepe the Sabbath and the Lords day without doing any worke according to the ancient manner of the Christians. They hold that the chiefe use of the Law is to shew us our sinnes, and they beleeve that wee can bee saved by no other but Jesus Christ, who fulfilled and satisfied the Law for us. They love and reverence Saints, but make no Invocation unto them. They doe much honour Mary the Mother of Christ, but yet they doe not worship her, nor implore her helpe. The Clergie and the Priests are permitted to many as well as the Lay-people. And they punish all kinde of Lust and Fornication. They have a Patriarke who is President of all their Churches, who is a man of approoved honesty, grave, well learned, and ancient in yeeres, whose Office it is to keepe the Clergie in concord and union, to defend the Ecclesiastick Discipline, and to excommunicate rebellious persons. The Election and choosing of Bishops and other Ecclesiasticall persons belongeth onely to the King.

1638. The merchants mappe of commerce wherein by Lewes Roberts.

Ethiopia superior and inferiour and the Provinces therof.

Ethiopia the superiour is knowne to us by the name of Abasine, and comprehendeth many large Provinces and Kingdomes, and containes the Springs of three famous rivers, Abas, Totiasis and Nilus arising out of the lake Zembre, being for the most part Christians, and commanded by that so much renowned Emperour Prester Iohn, affording for commodities to the neighbour regions, rice, barley, pease, sugars, minerals of all sorts, goates, sheepe, and oxen, but because these Townes of these Provinces are for the most part in land, they afford no great matter of trade, and as little knowne to our nation, I willingly omit them.

Of Ethiopia inferior, and the Provinces thereof.

Ethiopia inferior, hath the red Sea on the East, the Ethiopian Ocean on the West, the land of Negro's on the North, and the southerne Ocean on the South, commonly divided into these parts, Aian, Zanbar, Monomotapa, Caffaria, Monicongo.

In Aian, are upon the Sea coasts these three Cities much frequented by Merchanrs, Arar, Zeila, Borbera, the second of which was sacked by the Portugals in Anno 1516, and is found to abound with flesh, honey, waxe, corne, gold, Ivory and cattell; especially sheepe in plenty.

Zanibar containes 15 Townes that gives names to 15 severall Kingdomes, the chiefe for trade is Quiloa where the Portugals have Forts built and fortified Anno 1509. Mosambique also forti•… 〈◊〉 them, Soffola which for the aboundance of yvorie and gold is conceived to be the land of Ophir to which Solomon sent by his three yeares Voyage.

Monomotapa containes also sundry Provinces invironed almost round with waters, and abounding with mines of gold, accounted to containe above 2000, the principall being three, Monica, Boro and Quitiana; which yeelds not any commoditie else save …lephants teeth, to procure which, it is supposed 5000 are yearely •…aine in these Kingdomes.

Caffaria hath nothing famous in it, save that famous and no•…d headland Cape bona speranza, discovered by the Portugals in Anno 1497.

Manicongo was discovered by the Portugals 1486, and by them •…hen converted to the popish Religion, which the Inhabitants soone •…orsooke, as peradventure seeing that that Religion was made the •…loake of their conquest, yeelding yearely 30000 slaves in sale to the Portugals, which they carry to Brasile to worke in their silver Mines; of the trade of the principall of these it is fit I should in this place more particularly handle.

1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome

ABYSSIN, or the Empire of the ABYSSINS, is commonly called the Higher and Great AETHIOPIA; because it makes the greatest and better part of the one, and the other Aethiopia; and is the greatest and most considerable Estate of all Africa, under one name. It extends it self on this side, and beyond the Equinoctial Line; from the Mountains of the Moon, and the Springs of the Nile, even near unto Egypt; and from the Kingdoms, and Estates of Congo, and the Negroes, unto the Coasts of Zanguebar, Ajan and Habex. Its greatest length from South to North, is 800 Leagues. Its breadth from West to East, 4, 5 and sometimes 600, and in Circuit about 2500.

Some divide this great Estate into many Kingdoms and Provinces, as are set down in the Geopraphical Table of the Higher Aethiopia; we shall observe the most known.

BARNAGASSO signifies King of the Sea, because formerly all this Kingdom or Government held all the Coast of the Red Sea, from Egypt unto the Kingdom of Dancala; which is 250 Leagues; At present the Turks hold this Coast, where are Suaquen, Mezzua, Arquico which we will describe with Zanguebar, under the name of the Coast of Habex. Barva or Daburova is esteemed the chief of Barnagasso; after which some put Canfila, Daffila, and Emacen: others esteem Canfila and Daffila Provinces or Governments, and Emacen a City of the Government of Daffila, 20 Leagues from Barva; 50 from Suaquen. Chaxumo is the chief of Tigre; a fair City, and according to the common opinion, the Ordinary Residence of the Queen of Sheba or Saba, that came to see Solomon. Both the City and Quarter of Sabain, not far from Chaxumo, seem to retain the name. There are every where, here abouts, found a great many fair Churches: Angotine is a City in the Kingdom of Angota, and here they use Salt, or little pieces of Iron instead of Money.

The Kingdom of AMARA is farnous, by reason of its Mountain, where the Children, and nearest of Kinred to the Grand Negus are guarded: This Mountain is very high, of a great circuit, and whose approaches are very difficult, being craggy on all sides, and easie to defend; which made this use be made of it, to keep those which may cause any commotion in the Estate. The top of the Mountain is formed into a great Plain, where there are fair Buildings, many Cisterns, a rich Monastery, &c. Some speak wonders of this Mountain, and that the Grand Negus being deceased, they take thence him who is the trueinterior, if he be capable to govern the Estate, if not the second or third, &c. in order. Others say that there are no such things as they put here, neither Monastery, Library, Gold, Precious Stones, &c.

BAGAMEDRI is subdivided into Provinces, like to Tigre; hath a greater extent, and should be better, lying along the Nile. The Prince resides often at Dambea, which is beyond the Nile, as well as Damout. Some place the Springs of the Nile in Goyame, others in Cafates. The one and the other Kingdom being about the Lake of Zaire. Goyame where this Lake reduces it self into a River, which is the Nile: Cafates on one of the principal Rivers of those that fall into the Lake; which apparently should be called the Nile. Narea is between the Lake of Zaire and Zafflan; which are two Lakes, from whence descend the principal Rivers which make the Nile.

The Air of Abissin is very temperate considering its situation: Tigrema•on particularly is esteemed so, by reason of the Northerst Winds which re••esh it. All the Country is in Plains, except some Mountains, which are espe••ally towards its bounds. The Soyl is generally good, fruitful in Grains and Pulse, of which, it hath excellent, not known to us; they have few Vines, as also few Herbs, the Grasshoppers much annoying them. The Land feeds many tame and wild Beasts; and much Fowl, among others an infinite number of Turtles. Their Rivers have Cro•odiles and River-Ho•ses, which they call Gomaras; it is a hardy Fish, and will assault men in the Water. It hath much Metals, as Gold, Silver, Lead, Tin; and the Mountains so full of Sulphur, that they may afford wherewith to make Salt-peter more then any Country in the World, Tigremahon hath Mines of Gold, Silver, Iron, Lead, Copper and Sulphur: Damout hath more Gold, then all the rest: Bagamedri and Goyame hath likewise Gold.

The Inhabitants are generally black; some more, some less; they are (for the most part) of a good stature, flat nosed, woolly haired, of a nimble spirit, and very jovial: They have scarce any thing of Literature, neither do they much desire to attain to any. They Coyn neither Gold nor Silver, but receive it by weight. Some Authors make this Prince so rich, that there is scarce any in the World hath so much present Gold in his Coffers. Sanutus saith, that he once offered to the Kings of Portugal a Million of Drams of Gold, and as many men to exterminate the Infidels.* 1.7 And Queen Helena writing to Emanuel of Portugal, and speaking for her Grand-child David, saith, that if the King of Portugal would furnish them with 1000 Vessels of War and People fit for the Sea, that she would on her part,* 1.8 furnish them with all things necessary for the War, and give them 200 Millions of Gold; and that she had Men, Gold and Provisions, in suchgreat number and plenty, as there were Sands in the Sea, or Stars in the Firmament.

Zaara, King of Aethiopia, led against Asa, King of Judah, 90000 Foot, and 10000 Horse; which are 100000 Men. Pliny esteems the Isle of Meroes alone have 250000 Men fit to bear Arms; and 400000 Artisans. At present, the Grand Negus is held able to raise a Million of Men; and Barnagas alone to furnish 200000 Foot, and 20000 Horse. The Prince is always in the Field, and 5 or 6000 Tents attending on him, where are are Churches, Hospitals, Shops, Taverns, &c. which furnished with all things necessary for himself, and his Train.

There are scarce any Fortresses in the Countrey, except where Mountains of themselves make them. The Neighbors to this Estate, are the Turks, who hold all the Coast of Haber on the Red Sea, the King of Adel, and some others, on the Coasts of Ajan and Zanguebar; the Monomotapa, or the Monoemugi, towards the Mountains of the Moon; the Congo, or some Estates neighboring on Congo, and the Negroes towards the West; some Kings of Nubia, towards the North. Except the Turks, the Abissins having no Civil War, can easily reduce the greatest part of them to reason, or at least, hinder them from molesting him.

ZANGƲEBAR.

UNder the name of ZANGƲEBAR, I comprehend all the Coasts of the Higher Aethiopia: And these Coasts are on the Aethiopian Ocean, and the Red Sea or Gulph of Arabia. I subdivide them into three parts, the Coast of Zanguebar, the Coast of Ajan, and the Coast of Abex. The Coast of Zanguebar extends it self from the Cafres to under the Equator, for the space of 5 or 600 Leagues: That of Ajan is between the Equator and the Streight of Bab-el-Mandel, likewise 600 Leagues: The Coast of Abex advances from that Streight to Egypt, and hath not above 4000 Leagues. The first part was called by the Ancients Barbaria Regio, the second Azania Regio, and the last Trogloditica Regio.

The particular Coast of Zanguebar towards the East regards some Isles, among which that of Zanguebar, which hath communicated its name to the Coast, and then those of Penda and Monfia are the best known. Maffy makes mention here of the Isle and City of Querimba, and Texera of Anisa; the one and the other possibly, answer to some of those which Sanutas calls St. Rocq and Monfia, which (he saith) are four Islands, two great and two small.

Penda and Zanguebar are the greatest,and according to the form Sanutus gives them, are each of 100 Leagues circuit, Monfia 50, and the others much less. All, and particularly Zanguebar, produceth quantity of Grains, as Rice, Millet, &c. quantity of Fruits, as Citrons, Oranges, &c. and many Sugar Canes, which they know not how to resine; nor want they Fountains of fresh Water. Aniza and Querimba hath Manna, but not so much esteemed as that of other places.

On the Coast are the Estates or Kingdoms of Mongale, on one of the branches of Cuama, Angos or Angouche, on another Branch, or on another River of the same name, Mozambique Isle and City on the Coast, as likewise Quiloa and Mombaze. Melinda is no Isle, but on the Coast: so are Lamon, Pate, &c. Mongalo and Angos are little considerable; their Inhabitants black, Mahometans and Pagans; they traffick in Gold, Ivory, Calicoes, and Silk. The Isle and City of Mozambique is on that Coast of Africa which regards the Isle of Madagascar towards the East, and just between the Capes of Good Hope and Guardafuy, near 1000 Leagues from the one and the other, some account is made of this City and its Fort, for the goodness and depth of its Port, though small; but of a very important retreat for the Vessels of Portugal, after they have passed the Cape of Good Hope, where oft-times the Heat, or the working or motion of the Ship distempers many Men, who refresh themselves here, there being a very good Hospital, and a Magazin always furnished with what ever is needful, to finish their Voyage to the East Indies; this Port serving them going to the Indies, as the Isle o• Sancta Helena doth in their return. The whole Isle is not above a League and half in circuit. Its City is not so beautiful as many have believed it, but of a good Trade, wealthy and well frequented by the Portugals. Its Castle is good, since it hath sustained divers Assaults of the Hollanders. The Soil is dry, hath none, or very little Fresh-water; but the great number of Fruits, as Cocos, Oranges, Citrons, as others common to the Indies; and the quantity of Cattle, as Oxen, Sheep, Goats, Hogs, &c. which are found here, recompence these Inconveniences. Their Figs are long and large, being excellent and h•althful. The Tree sprouts, and dies every year; it shoots forth but one Branch, where many Figs ripen one after another, so that they are found to continue almost all the year: the Leaves are so great, that two will cover a person of a moderate Stature: dying, it leaves a Root, which shoots forth another Fig-Tree the year after Their Swines-flesh is so healthful, that Physicians order it for Sick people. Their Pullain are good and delicate, though their Feathers, Flesh, Blood, and Bones, are very black, and if boiled in Water as black as Ink. Here they are said to have Sheep, whose Tails weigh about 25 pound weight.

QƲILOA is 150 Leagues, or little more from Mozambique, in a strait line: and near 250 by Sea: It hath two Cites, the Old and the new; the Old on the main Land, the New in an Island, divided from it by a small Channel: This last is much the fairest; its Houses high, magnificent, and well furnished; accompunied with Gardens, where they gather excellent Fruits throughout the whole year. The Kings of Quiloa once commanded all the Coast into Mozambique and Sofala; but this Estate hath received a great change since the coming of the Portugals into these quarters.* 1.14 Its Inhabitants are yet rich, and have a great traffick for Gold, which they bring from the Main Land, where there is near as much as on the Coast of Sofala; as also Silver, Ambergreece, Pearls and Musk: They are part black, part white; these coming from Arabia, and are Mahometans; the others of the Natives are partly Idolaters both the one and the other go clad after the Arab or Turkish manner; the richest wearing Cloaths of Gold and Silver, Silks, fine Calico•s, and Scarlet, inriching the Guards of their Swords and Daggers with fair Pearls and Precious Stones, as the Women do their Ear-Pendants and Bracelets. They are very comly, of a civil behaviour, neat in their Houses, and love to go in rich Apparel. Here the People are observed to use a strange custom to those of the Female Sex, which is not used by any other Nation or People, save themselves; which is that they sow up the Privy-parts of the Female Children, only leaving a small vent for the issuing forth of their Urine. And thus sowed, they keep them carefully at home until they be married; and those that are by their Husbands found not to have this sign of their perpetual Virginity, are sent to their Parents with all kind of ignominy, and by their Parents are as disgracefully received. The Country, though unhealthful to the Europeans, ought to be esteemed good, since the Inhabitants are rich, the Soil fruitful in Grains and Fruits, feeding many Beasts and Fowl. Its Forests full of Game, and its Neighbouring Sea full of excellent Fish.

MOMZAMBE is 150 Leagues from Quiloa, seated on a little Hill, and an in Island, at the bottom of a Gulph, where great Ships may ride safe at Anchor. This City was formerly great, being about a League in circuit, encompassed with a strong Wall, and fortifled with a good Castle; well Peopled, of a good Trade; its Streets in good order, and its Houses high, and well built with Stone and Chalk, appearing almost all towards the Sea. It was found out when Vasco de Gama was in the Indies, and afterwards taken and retaken divers times by the Portugals, who keep a Fort by reason of the goodness of the Haven, and to maintain their trade. The Isle of Mombaze is but small.

MELINDA is another Kingdom, but of a small extent; yet made considerable by the good intelligence it hath always preserved with the Portugals. Since Vasco de Gama passed there the first time in 1489, until this present, which hath stood it in good stead; the Neighbouring States having been taken, pillaged, and burned divers times. This kept entire, maintaiming its Trade with the Portugals, and with the East: Its chief City bears the name of the Kingdom, seated in a fruitful and delightful Soil, yielding great plenty of Rice, Millet, Flesh; good store of Fruits, as Lemmons, Citrons, Oranges, &c. But not well furnished with Corn, the greatest part whereof is broughtout of Cambaya, a Province in India. This City is fair, well Walled, and the Houses built after the Moorish manner, with many Windows and Terrasses. The Inhabitants on the Sea Coasts are of the Arabian breed, and of the same Religion. Those of the Inlands, which are the Original Natives, are for the most part Heathens, and of an Olive colour, but inclining to white; and their Women of a very white Complexion, as in other places. They are said to be more civil in their Habit, Course of life, and entertainment in their Houses, than the rest of this Country; and great Friends to the Portugals, who return the like kind usage to them. This Kingdom of Melinda is not distant from Mombaza above 30 Leagues by Land, and 60 by Sea; whose People are of the same nature and disposition with those of Melinda.

The Estates of LAMON, PATE, and CHELICIA, and likewise some others, are under the Government of Melinda. Panebaxira, King of Lamon, and Brother to the King of Chelicia, surprized in 1589, Rock Brito, Governour of Melinda, and some other Portugals, whom they sold to the Turks. The Admiral Thomas Sousa Cotinho assaulted them, took, and cut off the Head of the King of Lamon, quartered the others, and hung them up in divers places to serve for example. These Kings are almost all Mahometans; yet here are found some few Christians which inhabit among them.

We have observed on the Coast of Zanguebar but five or six different Estates or Kingdoms; there are some others, but of lesser note, and all Tributary, or in good Intelligence, and trading with the Portugals.

Thee Coast of AJAN contains the Republick of BRAVA, which Sanutus calls Barraboa; then the Kingdoms of MAGADOXA, ADEA, and ADELL: some of their People on the Coast are White. BRAVA is well built, an indifferent Mart; rich, and pays Tribute to the Portugals. It is the only Republick at present in Africa, being governed by 12 Councellors or Statesmen. MAGADOXA is its chief City, and hath sometimes been so powerful, that it ruled over all this Coast; it is scituate in a delightful and fruitful Soil, and neighboured by a safe and large Haven, which is much frequented by the Portugals, and is very rich, affording Gold, Hony, Wax, and above all Abyssin Slaves, which by the Portugals are held in great value; for which they bring them in exchange the Silks, Spices, Drugs, &c. of India.

ADEA extends it self but little towards the Sea: The Country is fertil in Grains, as Wheat, Barley, Rice, &c. It is well shaded with Woods and large Forrests, which are plentifully furnished both with Fruits and Cattle, besides a greatincrease of Horses. The Inhabitants are of the Mahometan Religion,* 1.20 and follow the Arabians in many of their Customs, from whom they were descended, keeping much of their Language, and in their Habit naked, save only from the middle downwards. Of Complexion, for the most part of an Olive colour, and well proportioned; not very expert in Arms, except in poysoned Arrows. Its other chief places are Barraboa and Quilmanca, seated on the Sea, which is called the Coast of Ajan, as is Magadoxa.

ADELL within these few years is become the most powerful of all these Kingdoms: Its Estates extending both on the Arabian Gulph or Red Sea; and on the Great Ocean, stretching 200 Leagues on each side; Cape Guardafuy ending both the one and the other towards the East, regards in the Sea the Isle of Zocotora, famous for the quantity and goodness of the Aloes here gathered, which they call Zocotorin; about which are several other Isles, but not so considerable, being small, and many not inhabited. The Arab of Nubia would make us believe, that Alexander the Great was in this Island, drove thence the Inhabitants, and planted Greeks the better to manage the Aloes, which Aristotle had so much prized to him. Its chief City takes its name from the Kingdom; its others places of most note are, 1. Zeila, of old, Avalis, and its Gulph Avalatis Sinus, is one of the best places of the Kingdom of Adell, though about the City there wants Water; yet the Country farther off furnishes Wheat, Barley, Millet, Oil of Sesamum, Honey, Wax, Fruits, Gold, Ivory, and Incense. They fell to the Turks and Arabs abundance of Abyssin Slaves, which they take in War; and in exchange receive Arms, Horses, &c. This Zeila is a noted Port Town, well frequented with Merchants, by reason of the variety of good Commodities that it yields. Once of great beauty and esteem, till in the year 1516 it was sacked and burned by the Portugals; before which it was esteemed the most remarkable Empire of all AEthiopia for the Indian Trade. 2. Barbora, and 3. Meta, are two of the most noted Sea-Port Towns in all Adell, both under the Turks Jurisdiction. The first is seated on the same Sea Coast, as Zeila is, well frequented by Merchants, nigh to a lofty Promontory, which they call Mount Fellez: And the last is seated near the Cape of Guardafuy. The People inhabiting on the Sea Coasts are descended from the Arabs, and of the Mahometan Religion; but those towards the Inland Countries, of the old Aethiopick Race, and wholly Gentiles.

The Coast of ABEX hath for its principal places, Aquico, of old Magnum Littus, Maczuma Isle, Macaria Insula, and Suaquem Ptolomais Ferarum. The Turk hath a Bassa at Suaquem, and some say another at Maczuma or Aquico. Suaquem is in the midst of the Coast of Africa, which lies on the Red Sea or Arabian Gulph, distant from Sues in Egypt, which ends this Gulph, 250 and odd Leagues; and from Babel-Mandel, which begins it, 260, or little more: So the Authority of this Bassa exten•• almost quite over this Sea. The Isle of Maczuma hath good Pastures, feeds much Cattle: Aquico is almost opposite to Maczuma, and both have commodious Havens. Its other chief places are, Canfila, Daffila, Emacen, Barba, Zama, Corberia, and Carna. About this Coast of Abex are several other Isles, as Bahia de Cabras, Suaquem, Mire, Meger, Ballaccia, Maczua, St. Peitre, with several others not worth the naming.

All this Coast of Abex hath been under the Government of Bernagasso in Abyssin, and belonged not to the Turk till within this hundred years. A Country dry, untilled, but of some Trade: the People fierce, retaining much of their ancient Barbarism. They Fish Coral near the Isle of Suaquem and Aquico; they frequently pass from Suaquem to Ziden, in Arabia, which serves for a Port to Mecca, and is about 100 Leagues over. This is the Traject which the Arab of Nubia describes between Adhab and Giodda, which answer to Suaqnem and Ziden.

• The Empire of the ABYSSINS; or the LOWER AETHIOPIA; with its Empires, Kingdoms, Land, &c. which may be divided into (or comprehended under) three Parts, or Heads; and then:
  • The First shall contain The Kingdom of CONGO, with its Kingdoms or Provinces of
    • LOANGA,
      • Loango,
      • Sette,
      • Majumba,
      • Quanvi,
      • Quiloogo,
      • Sellaga,
      • Kaye,
      • Katte.
    • PANGO,
      • Pango,
      • Cundi Funquenes,
      • Angote,
      • Chicaco de Lula.
    • SUNDA,
      • Sunda,
      • Betequa,
      • Quincasso.
    • SONGO,
      • Sonho,
      • Bommo,
      • Matinga,
      • Cascais,
      • Melemba,
      • Calinde,
      • Palmarinho,
      • Mombalas,
      • Quivala.
    • BAMBA,
      • Bamba,
      • Mussula,
      • Lengo,
      • Loanda St. Pavo,
      • Fort Mols,
      • Motole,
      • Bengo,
      • Azele.
    • PEMBA,
      • St. Salvador,
      • Pemba,
      • Tinda,
      • Simba,
      • Lemba.
    • BATTA,
      • Batta,
      • Agisimba,
      • Gongou.
    • ANGOLA,
      • Engaze,
      • Maisirgan,
      • Benguela,
      • Quicongo,
      • Manikimsombo,
      • Manikilondo,
      • Gunze,
      • Mapongo,
      • Embacca.
    • GIAQUES,
      • Zaire,
      • Dagar,
      • Elifie.
    • MALEMBA,
      • Meri.
      • Debsan.
  • The Second shall contain
    • The Empire of MONOMOTAPA, with its Kingdoms or Parts of
      • SUTUA,
        • Batua,
        • Carma,
        • Zet,
        • Dobdel,
        • Augesa.
        • Calburas,
        • Bafat,
        • Quiticui,
        • Degme,
        • Hagala,
        • Giera,
        • Amara,
        • Matagasi,
        • Bera,
        • Armeta,
        • Gallica.
      • MONOMOTAPA, particularly so called,
        • Monomotapa,
        • Zuggi,
        • Tialso,
        • Zimbro,
        • Jouros,
        • Garma,
        • Mosata,
        • Vigiri Magna.
    • The Empire of MONOEMUGI, wherein are some Kingdoms, whose chief places are
      • Agag,
      • Astagoa,
      • Leuma,
      • Camur,
      • Beif,
      • Bagametro,
      • Zembre,
  • The Third shall contain The Land and Coast of CAFRES, which encompasseth the Empire of MONOMOTAPA, with its Parts of
    • MATAMAN,
      • Angra dos Negros,
      • Cabo Negro,
      • Doileus portus.
    • Coast of CAFRES, particularly so called,
      • Cape St. Anthony,
      • Cape St. Lucia,
      • St. Martins-Bay,
      • Cape of Good Hope,
      • Carascalis Portus.
      • Biscarius Portus,
      • St. Nicholai.
    • CHICANGA, — Zimbaos.
    • QUITEVA,
      • Deje,
      • Cuama.
    • ZEFALAN, — Zefalan.

THE EMPIRE OF THE ABYSSINS, Or, THE Lower Aethiopia.

THE Empire of the ABYSSINS, Heylin makes to be the Dominions or Empire of Prester John, and saith, That he is of such great force, that he is able to bring into the Field upon a sudden occasion, a Million of Fighting Men; and of his Wealth and Riches many speak wonders, some saying he is able to purchase half of all the World, if it were to be sold: Others make it not so great, but say, that besides his necessary expences in the management of State Affairs; the payment of his Army, the pomp in his Court, &c. he lays up yearly in his Treasury Three Millions of Crowns. But without doubt his Revenue and Force is great; for it is said, That he himself proffered the Portugals a Million of Money, and another of Men, if they would employ them in a War against the Infidels.

The Government of this Emperour is absolutely Tyrannical, the People being used more like Slaves than Subjects, treating them as he pleases, as well to their lives as Estates; giving Honours to whom he pleases, which upon any slight occasion he taketh away again. He is held in such great reverence among all his Subjects, as well Rich as Poor, that at his name they bow their Bodies, and touch the ground with one of their fingers; and reverence his Pavilion as they pass by it, though he is not in it. And to keep up this Reverence, which he holds due to him, he seldom shews himself to his Subjects, and then not without his Crown on his head, a Silver Crucifix in his hand, and his Face covered with a Veil of Taffety, which according as he is pleased to grace the person he talketh with, he lifteth up and putteth down, to shew him his Face.

The Title of this Great and Mighty Emperour, I shall borrow from Heylin, who thus hath it: N. N. Supream of his Kingdoms, and the beloved of God; the Pillar of Faith; sprung from the Stock of Judah; the Son of David, the Son of Solomon, the Son of the Colomn of Sion, the Son of the Seed of Jacob, the Son of the Hand of Mary, the Son of Nahu, after the Flesh; the Son of St. Peter and Paul, after the Spirit: Emperour of the Higher and Lower Aethiopia, and of the most Mighty Kingdoms, Dominions, and Countries of Xoa, Goa, Caffares, Fatigar, Angotae, Balignazo, Adea, Vangne, Goyame, where the Fountains of Nile, Amara, Banguamedron, Ambea, Vagucum, Tigremean, Sabaim, the Birth-place of the Queen of Sheba; Bernagassum; and Lord of all the Regions unto the confines of Egypt.

They prosess the Christian Religion, which was first made known unto them by the Eunuch of Queen Candace, who was baptized by Philip the Evangelist, and more generally received by the Preaching of St. Matthew the Apostle. Since which they have much swerved from the purity of the true Religion, by their many corrupt Opinions which are crept in amongst them; as they use Circumcision both to their Males and Females, when they are Children; and they Baptize their Males 40 days, and their Females 80 days after Circumcision: That Infants dying unbaptized, are sanctified by the Womb, by vertue of the Eucharist which the Mother receives after her Conception: They administer the Eucharist to Infants, presently after they are Baptized. They Baptize themselves in Pouds and Lakes every Epiphany-day, as supposing that to be the day that John Baptized Christ in Jordan. They hold, that the reasonable Soul of Man is derived from their First Parents by Seminal Propagation. They acknowledge but one Nature, and one Will in Christ. After the receiving of the Sacrament, they hold it unfitting to Spit until Sun-fet. Those Beasts which in the Old Law are held unclean, are so esteemed with them. They keep their Sabbath-day on Saturdays: they allow their Priests no yearly means or slipends, neither do they suffer them to beg; but they are forced to get their livelyhoods by the sweat of their brows, and labour of their hands. They accept only of the three first General Councils. They have moreover a Book, which is writ in eight Volumes (and as they say) by the Apostles assembled at Jerusalem for that purpose, the Contents thereof they most strictly keep.

We have divided AETHIOPIA into the Higher and Lower; esteemed the Higher, that which is towards the North and the East; the Lower, that which is towards the South and West. We have succinctly discoursed of the Parts of the Higher, proceed we now to the Lower.

This Lower AETHIOPIA extends it self from the River of the Camaronts, where the bottom of the Gulph of St. Thomas is, and so turning about the Capes of Negro, Bona Esperanza, and Des Carientes, into the River of Cuama; which bounds it from Zanguebar, part of the Higher Aethiopia, as the other doth from the Kingdom of Benim, part of Guiny, which is in Libya Interior. We have like wise subdivided this Lower Aethiopia into three parts,* 1.5viz. into Congo, Monomotapa, and the Country of the Cafres. We may yet subdivide these three Parts, each into two others, which will make six. The first shall be what is between Guiny and Congo; the second, Monomotapa and Mona-Emugi; and the last, the Land of Cafres on this side, and Westward; and the Land of Cafres beyond, and Eastward of the Cape of Good Hope. Between Guiny and the Kingdom of Congo there are divers Kingdoms, and divers People: The Ambosins and Camarones are on the Sea; then the Kingdoms of the Capones, the Country of Angra, the three Kingdoms of Cacombo, Gabom, and Pongo; of which this last is most powerful. Among these Estates are the Capes of Lopo Gonsalves; up in the Land are the Kingdoms of Biafra, Medra, Dauma, &c.

The Land of AMBOSINS and CAMARONES, are near the River of Camarones; a Country very fertil. The Lands of Capones and Angra are pleasant, because of the many fresh Streams which water them. The first are poor, the Capones are malicious, those of Angra addicted to Arms. The Estates or Kingdoms which are about the Cape of Gonsalves,* 1.6 have their People of the same Tongue, the same Religion (who are Idolaters,) and the same Manners; and their Kings and Lords are in peace, and in good intelligence with one another: Those nearest the Sea are the most courteous and civil, by reason of the confluence of Strangers; and when they trade with those of Europe, they white their Faces with Chalk? their beautiful Garments are made of Mats, tissued with the Rind of certain Trees, and properly accommodated. Those of Biafra more advanced in Land, are very barbarous,

addicting themselves to Witcherafts, and sometimes sacrificing their Children to Devils. Those of Medra, Dauma, and some others further off, are almost quite unknown, and possibly not worth regard. The Portugals traded here alone a long time, and possessed several Parts on this Coast: within few years the Hollanders have taken divers places from them, some of which they have since retaken.

The Kingdom of CONGO.

BEyond the Equinoctial Line and unto Cape Negro, lies the Kingdom of CONGO, under the name of which we comprehend many others, which have been Subjects, Tributaries, or Allies to the King of Congo; as are the Kingdoms of Loanga and the Anziquaines, to the North; of Cacongo, and the People Gallas or Giaquas, to the East, of Angola, Malemba, Mataman, and others, to the South.

The Kingdom of LOANGA hath its principal City of the same name; others say, Banza Loango, or simply Banza; it is seated on the Sea, as is Quilongo, Quanvi, and Majumba. It comprehends six Provinces, and is throughout indifferent fertil in Grains; affords excellent Fruits, Wine of Palms; breeds many Cattle, and all things necessary for life is found here; it is well stored with Elephants, having more than any other Country in these parts; they have quantity of Ivory, but have neither Gold nor Silver. The Country is very hot, by reason of its lying under the Line; but indifferent healthful and well peopled. Their King once subject, writes himself now but Ally to the King of Congo, and is called Mani-Loango, and the Governours of the six Provinces, likewise Mani, that is, Lord of such or such a Province. Their Subjects are all Bramas, who by Religion are Heathens.

The Kingdom of CONGO may be said to be the fairest of the Lower Aethiopia, though those of the Monomotapa, and Mono-Emugi, have more extent, yet hath he alwaies been esteemed the most Polite; hath had all his neighbours Subjects, and the most part yet his Allies. It may have in length 200 Leagues, and about 120 on the Coast. It is subdivided into six great Provinces, to wit, Bamba, Songo, Sunda, Pango, Batta, and Pemba: which together hath 30 or 40000 little Towns.

Songo, Sunda and Pango lies upon, and mounting from the Sea up the River Zaire. Bamba, Pemba and Batta are towards the River of Coanza, and the Lake of Aquilonda; these three last making the most Southern parts, the three other the most Northern of the Kingdom: and all take their names from the principal places where the Governours of the Provinces reside.

The Country of BAMBA is well stored with Beasts and Birds, both, tame and wild; well watered with Rivers, hath Mines of Silver, and its People exceeding strong. Its chief places are, Bamba, on the River Loze; Motole, on the River Dorati; Bengo, also Pavo, Lengo, and Mussulo, on the Sea.

SONGO lies on both sides the River Zaire, which sends forth many turbulent Streams, and hath so many Islands that one part of it hath very little to do with the other; its chief places are Sonho, nigh to Cape de Pedro, and on a branch of the Zaire; also Bommo, Matinga, Cabinde, Malemba, and Cascais, which three last are on the Sea.

SƲNDA is indifferent fertil, hath several rich Mines of Metals; among the rest the Inhabitants set the greatest esteem upon Iron, by reason that of it they make their Materials for War; it is parted by the Zaire. This Country furnishes forreign Merchants with several rich Furs, as Sables, Martrons, &c. Its several chief places are, Sunda, Betequa▪ Iri, and Quincasso.

PANGO is but barren, its Inhabitants barbarous, but strong in Arms: Its chief places are Pango, Cundi-Funquenes, and Angote; and this Country is watered with the River Zaire.

BATTA is also of a barren Soil, and its People also barbarous, but indifferent well skill'd in Arms; and that being forced to it rather to defend themselves, than to offend others. Its chief places are Batta, Agisymba, and Gongou.

PEMBA is held to be the richest and pleasantest Province of all Congo, being very fertil in Grains, Fruits, &c. hath good Water; the Air is healthful; the Inhabitants, since the Portugals sat footing there, are become very civil, imitating them both in Behaviour and Apparel. Its chief City called Banza, that is, the Court, and which the Portagals call St. Salvador,* 1.16 is the residence of the King, seated on an eminence, which discovers the Country on all sides. This scituation together with its being in the middle of the Estate, gives it a great advantage; some esteem it to have 10000 Inhabitants, others 100000: possibly those understand 10000 Families, and those 100000 Souls; for the King being powerful, and his Court always great, there cannot but be multitudes. The Isle and City of Loanda, on the Coast of Bamba, were not long since in the hands of the Portugals; now the East India Company of the Ʋnited Provinces have seized it. Its other chief places are Simba, Pemba, on the River Danda, Lemba and Tinda.

The most famous Rivers of this Kingdom are the Zaire, the Lelunda, the Danda, and the Coanza; the three last descend from the Lake of Aquilonda; the Zaire from the Lake of Zaire, from whence descends likewise the Nile; the Zaire hath 400 Leagues course, is very rapid, by reason of the many Cataracts or great falls which it hath from the Mountains; at its entrance into the Estates of Congo it enlarges it self much, embraces quantity of Islands, and at its Mouth hath no less than 8 or 10 Leagues breadth, yet presses its Waters 15 or 20 Leagues farther into the Sea, and that with so great a violence, that its Waters retain their natural sweetness, without being corrupted or intermingled with the Salt-waters of the Sea. The Rivers Danda and Coanza are Navigable, and receive great Ships. The Isle of Loandu is near the Mouth of the last: It is observed, that when the Sea is high the Springs of Running-water are fresh, and when the Sea falls they become salt.

The Congolans are naturally very sweet and easie, able and strong,* 1.18 but dull and idle: they will not take the pains to tame Beasts for service, nor to employ their fine Stones in Buildings, nor make their Birds of Prey for Hawking; yet make they curious Cloths, Velvets, Damasks, Brocats, &c. They have no harmony in their Instruments of Musick, but a confused mixture of many cords or strings and many Voices content them; their Money is of grey shells, taken on the Coast of the Province of Bamba, and these Shells (especially the Females) are much esteemed, even in other Kingdoms, and almost through all Aethiopia. Their Grains, Fruits, Waters, Fowl,* 1.19 Sea and River Fish are excellent. They have store of Elephants, Mines of Silver, Iron, Chrystal, Marble, Jaspar, Porphyre, &c. They know not their Histories but by the Reigns of their Kings, and without specifying the time, for they have no Letters, much less Learning; and hereupon some would make us believe, that Emanuel of Portugal having sent a famous Ambassador into Congo with many Presents, among others three fair Books excellently bound, and which contained the Cannons, the Laws Imperial, the Ordinances, Civil Right, the Infortiate, the Rubricks, &c. and with these Books, many Doctors of Law to teach the knowledge of them; and when the King of Congo did understand the subject that these fair Books contained, and knew the profession of the Doctors, he was so surprized that he remained sometime silent; but in the end he caused these▪ Books to be burned, saying, That he feared they would overihrow the very foundation of his Estate; and that he contented himself to judge according to reason, and need no other Interpreter than Common sense; but withal protesting, that he would remain a good and intire Friend to Emanuel King of Portugal; and so sent back his Doctors. The Author of the Essay of the Wonders of Nature applies this story to the King of the Abyssins: It is much at one; let us return to Congo.

They say, that the Province of Bamba can furnish at a need 400000 strong and Warlike men; the other Provinces are no less, nor possibly worse peopled than this, but less addicted to Arms. This being esteemed the Bulwark of the Kingdom, affected to the service of their Prince, and so strong, that at one, blow of a Sword they can strike off an Oxes head, or cut a Slave in two. Their Elephants are so great, that some of their Teeth are found to weigh 200 l. and they make such esteem of their Tails when they are old, that sometimes they exchange three Slaves for one Tail. They make of them divers Ornaments and Cords for their Instruments of Musick. The Kingdom falls only to the Males, and in default of Legitimates to Bastards: to shun all process, all Riches belong to the King, who disposes of them to whom he pleases, keeping to himself a certain Revenue. Christianity hath been introduced about 150 years ago, but not without much difficulty in its beginning.

East of Congo, and South of Anziquaines, is the Estate of CACONGO; and South of Cacongo are the Giaques or Jaggas, which the Abyssins call Gallas, and others Imbagolas. These People are Vagabonds, Cruel, Men-eaters, like to the Anziquaines and Moceveies, living only on what they steal from their Neighbours. The great Jagge disposes absolutely, both of their Idolatry and their War.

The Kingdom of ANGOLA, once Abonda, is between Congo on the North, Mataman on the South, Malemba on the East, and the Sea on the West. This Kingdom hath 100 Leagues of Coast, to wit, from the 10th unto the 4th degree of Meridional Latitude; and that which continues unto Cape Negro, and belongs to divers Lords, tributary to it. The principal City of the Country is Engaze, and likewise Dongo, which Modern Authors place at the meeting of many Rivers: It is 75 or 80 Leagues from the Sea. The Mountains of Cambamba, rich in Mines of Silver, are in this Country, which the Portugals cause to be laboured. Its other chief places are Massirgan, on the River Coanza; Benguela, seated on the Sea, on the Bay of Thora; and Quicongo, a Sea-Port Town.

Through the whole Country there is a great traffick for Slaves, 20 or 25000 yearly being transported from the Port of Loanda. There are such multitudes in this Kingdom, that the Grand Soba (as they say) can in a moment raise 100000 Men; and that in Anno 1584, he raised 1200000. In Anno 1585, 600000. Yet these last were put to flight by 200 Portugals at the head of 10000 Aethiopians. The first by 150 Portugals at the head of 8 or 10000 Congolans, which may make us judge of the goodness of their Militia.

The Kingdom is divided into Provinces or Mirindes, which have each their Sobas, which a 100 years ago, or little more, were only Governours for the Kings of Congo, now subject all to the Great Soba of Angola, who makes only some Present to the King of Congo. Its People use the same Tongue, Mony, and Arms, with those of Congo.

The Empire of the MONO-MOTAPA.

THE MONO-MOTAPA, that is, the Emperour, King, or Sovereign of Motapa, is (according to Vincent Blanc) called by his People Tabaqui, and possesses an Empire so great, that it is made of 1000 Leagues circuit: It is said by him, that this Prince deports himself with gravity, and that there is no access to his person but with very great submissions: That he is always adorned with Chains and Precious Stones, like to a Woman, or rather like a Spouse: Is pleased to receive Presents, but gives little; keeps a great Seraglio of Women, which it is forbid to approach; and one part of his Guard (according to some) is likewise composed of Women, who are active at their Arms, and couragious. He calls his principal City Madrogan (which is the Mono-Motapa of others) where his Royal Palace is, which is magnificent and great, flanked with Towers without, with four principal Gates; within hung with Tapestries of Cotton mixed with Gold, and adorned with many rich and stately Moveables.* 1.24 This Prince is always clothed after the manner of his Predecessors, nor may he change any thing, except the Ornaments of his Neck and Buskins. He wears no Forrein Stuffs for fear of Poyson and Witchcraft; his Drink 〈◊〉 Wine of Palm distilled with Manna, Amber, and Musk. He spends much in Odours and Perfumes, making them be mixed in those Lights which are carried before him, and which serves where he is. His Court hath a great many Officers, which serve with order and silence; besides which, they are thronged with People. His Officers are easily known, because they carry the Talmassara on their Shoulder, more or less enriched, according to their condition or degree of place; but all in the same fashion with the Kings. The Inhabitants are all black, of a mean stature, active, and such good Foot-men,* 1.25 that they are said to out-run Horses: They are couragious, addicted to Arms, as also to Trade. The Commonalty cover themselves but below the Waist, for which their Apparel is made of Skins of Beasts, Cotton, Cloth, or the like; but the better sort have Cloths and Stuffs, which are brought them from the Indies: The Maids cover nothing of their Body till they are married. Their Houses are of Wood, or Earth whited, fashioned like a Clock, or rather like a Bell. Those of the greatest Lords are the highest. They have as many Wives as they please; but she who is the first espoused is always the chief, and her Children alone inherit the Fathers Goods and Estate. The Women are here used very respectfully, none offering so much as to take the Wall of them. The Maids are here not thought fit to be married, till their Menstrua or Natural Purgations shews their ability for Conception, which makes them solemnize with a great Feast their first Flux. They have no Prison in all the Country, but all Affairs are determined and ended on the place, so soon as they are convicted of the fact or crime; but above all Offenders, those for Theft, Adultery, and Witchcraft, are the most severely treated. And this sudden execution of Criminals, makes the King to be reverenced by his Subjects. Christianity found here some difficulties at the beginning; at present it is established by the consent of the King, who hath likewise permitted the Portugals to work the Mines of Gold and Silver, which in this Country are in great quantity, and so rich, that there are some who call this Prince, The Emperour of Gold. Not only the Mines, but likewise the Rivers have Gold in their Sand: among which, those of Dos Infantos, of the Holy Ghost, and of Cuama, towards their Springs, which are towards the Lake Zachaf; but those of the Country care for no more of it, than is necessary to truck for what they have need of.

The Woods have great store of Elephants, which yields them Ivory; as also other Beasts. Hath rich Pastures, which are well furnished with Cattle, hath Grains, Fruits, Fowl, is well watered with many Rivers, in which are abundance of Fish. The Air is temperate, except that their Winter is colder than may be expected in that Climate, by reason of the Mountains which enclose it on all sides, and cross the Country: And their Winter is in the same time when we have our Summer, to wit, when the Sun is about the Tropick of Cancer.

The Mono-Motapa is said to be one of the most powerful Princes of Africa, if we consider the greatness of his Estate, his Riches, and the great number of Princes which hold of him, or are under his Dominion. They yearly receive the Fire which the Mono-Motapa sends them, or upon refusal are accounted Rebels. But all these People, though hardy and addicted to Arms, are unexpert in them: so that their Number would do them little good, if assaulted by the Europeans. They believe only in one God, and punish with death Idolaters and Sorcerers.

But a word or two of the chief places of this Empire, and first of the Kingdom or Province of BƲTƲA, whose chief places are, Butua, Carma, Gallita, Zet, seated an the Lake Zachaf; Dobdel, Calburas; Tialso and Zimbra, both under the Tropick of Capricorn; Bafat, Quiticu, Armeta, Maitagasi, Boro, Amara, Giera, and Hagala; most of which are Cities of some account, and seated on Rivers.

The chief places in MONO-MOTAPA, particularly so called, are Mono-Motapa, the chief of the Empire; Zuggi, Jouros, and Mosata. The chief in ZEFALA bears the same name, seated in an Isthmus so called. The chief in QƲITEVA is Cuama, seated on the River so named. Ab••• the Shoar of Zefala are several Isles, among which three bear the name of ƲCIQƲE PARVAE; three of ƲCIQƲE MAJORES; and two of SPICHELLAE; and farther; a Sea; and towards the Isle of Madagascar is the Isle of BAIXOS DE INDIA. The chief place of SEDANDA is so called: And the chief places of CHICANGA are, Zimbdos and Buro. And these are the Parts comprehended under the Empire of the Mono-Motapa.

The Mono-Emugi, that is, Lord of Emugi, hath his Empire or Estates between the Abyssins, the Cafres, the Mono-Motapa, and the Zanguebar; so that it is about the Mountains of the Moon. The Giaques or Zaggaes, which joyn to Congo, are likewise esteemed subject to this Empire: He hath often War with the Mono-Motapa, of which he seems once to have been a part, is in peace with the King of Zanguebar, that he may have commerce to the Sea, for he hath much Gold, Silver, Ivory, and the same Commodities as Mono-Motapa; but its People are more barbarous and brutish. The chief places in the Mono-Emugi are, Agag, Astagoa, Leuma, Camur, Beif, Bagametro, and Zembre, seated on the bottom of the Lake Zaire.

CAFRERIA, or the Land of CAFRES.

CAFRERIA, or the Land of CAFRES, makes the most Southern Coast of all Aethiopia, winding like a Semicircle about the Cape of Good Hope; some begin it from Cape Negro, and continue it unto the River of Cuama; this separating it from Zanguebar, and the other from Congo, or what we have esteemed with Congo. Others begin it and end it with the Tropick of Capricorn, as well on this side as beyond the Cape of Good Hope. I esteem under the name of Cafres all the Coasts which environ the Mono-Motapa, both towards the West, South, and East: so that we may call these Cafres, Occidental, Meridional, and Oriental. This distinction being taken in regard of the natural scituation in which these People are from the Mono-Motapa; or we may chuse rather to consider them in Occidental or Oriental, as we have already done; the Cape of Good Hope then keeping the one from the other. It hath formerly been believed, that these People had neither Kings, Law, nor Faith, and therefore were called Cafres, that is, without Law. But it hath since been known, that they have divers Kings and Lords; as those of Mataman, where there are divers Metals, Chrystal, &c. And of Melemba, among the Occidentals; those of Chicanga, Sedanda, Quiteva, and Zefala, among the Orientals; and others we know not, towards the South and Cape of Good Hope.

On the Coast of Cafres are these places and Isles, viz. St. Nicolai, Piscarius, the Port of Carascalis, the Cape of Good Hope, St. Martins Bay, and the Cape of St. Lucia. Also these Isles, 4 bearing the name of St. Lucia, 2 of St. Christophers, 5 of Crucis, and 3 of Aride. Many of which, as likewise the Capes, are well known by Sea-men, especially the Cape of Good Hope. All these Coasts of Cafreria are bounded within Land by a Chain of Mountains, formed by the Mountains of the Moon, and which inclose Mono-Motapa. That part of these Mountains which advance towards the Cape of Good Hope, are called by the Portugals,* 1.31Picos Fragos, that is, Watry Points or Rocks. This Cape is the most remarkable piece in Cafreria; the most Southern point of Africa, and of our Continent; and the most famous Promontory of the whole World. Vasco de Gama knew it in 1498, and after having doubled it, found the way by the East-Indies to the Great Sea; and from hence the Portugals boast to have been the first that had the knowledge of this Cape. But we have made appear in the general discourse of Africa, that the Ancients have both known and spoke of it. Near the Cape of Good Hope, and farther towards the South, is the Cape of Needles, which should be more famous, since it is more Southernly than the other by 12 or 15 Leagues: But the name, Cape of Good Hope, is given to all that Head of Land which is the most Southern of Africa.

The Air of this Country is sometimes temperate, and sometimes cold, by reason of the Mountains which are covered with Snow and Ice, from whence descends quantity of cold Waters. The Vallies and Lower Countries pleasant and fertil; hath store of Woods and Forests, in which are abundance of Beasts and Fowls, as Deer, Antilopes, Baboons, Foxes, Hares, &c. Also Ostriches, Herons, Pelicans, Pheasants, Partridges, Geese, Ducks, &c. They are well supplied with good Water, feed much Cattle, which they truck with Strangers for Knives, Scizzars, Spoons, and divers Toys; they have likewise much Fish in their Rivers.

The Inhabitants are Black, have thick Lips, flat Noses, long Ears; and in a word, very ill-shapen. They are more barbarous and brutish than the rest of Africa, they are Man-eaters; their chief ornaments in their Apparel are, Chains of Iron, Brass, Beads, Bells, or the like; and cutting and slashing their Skins in several shapes. Clothing they have none, only in the Cold season they wrap themselves about with Skins of Beasts. Towns they have none, or very few, for the most part living in the Woods and Forests, like brute Beasts. But the Cafres on the East are much more civil than the others; most of them have made a part, and are yet subject to the Mono-Motapa, who about 50 years ago divided his Estate into four parts, giving to his eldest Son what is within Land, and by much the greatest part; and to his three younger Sons, Zuiteva, Sedanda, and Chicanga, towards the Sea-Coast, for their Portions. Cefala or Zefala seems to make its piece apart, whose King pays Tribute both to the Mono-Motapa and the Portugals; and these have divers Fortresses on the Coast, Sena, Tete, Cuama, &c.

Zefala is so abundant in Gold and Elephants, that some take it for the Ophir whither Solomon sent his Fleet every three years: And they give for a reason, that the Gold, Ivory, Apes, &c. which that Fleet brought, are here found in abundance; That this Fleet parting from the Red Sea, there is no likelyhood it should go to Peru, which some take for this Ophir; besides, that there is there neither Ivory nor Apes; but that it was rather to some part of Asia or Africa. They add, that there remains not far from Zefala some footsteps of ancient Buildings and Inscriptions, left there by Strangers long time ago: Nay likewise, that there is some notes and Books how Solomon sent thither his Fleet. Moreover, the Septuagint translate Sophira instead of Ophir, and the name of Sophira is not overmuch different from Sopholo. However it be, there is here store of Gold both in the Mountains and Rivers, and often very clean and pure, as well in Powder as Sand; and this Gold is esteemed the best and finest in Africa, ours seeming but Brass in comparison of it.

The Country is healthful and pleasant, seated only on the Coast, the Mono-Motapa confining it within Land: A part of its now Inhabitants are not the Natives, but descended from that Coast which belonged to the Mono-Motapa. The Natives (as I said before) are Black, and Idolaters or Cafres, the others very swarthy, and for the most part Mahometans. They have a great Trade on this Coast for their Gold, two or three Millions being yearly brought hence, and that for Toys and things of a very small value, which are carried them from divers parts of Asia and Europe, and some parts of Africa.

1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.

Abissinia, or, Aethiopia.

THis Countrey is otherwise call'd Abech, Abassia, Abassinia; the Empire of the Negus, the Kingdom of Prester John, the Middle-Indies, the Southern-Indies, the High, or Great Aethiopia. Those of the Countrey, give their King the Name of Belulgian, by reason of the Ring, which the Queen of Sheba received from Salomon, and which, since that time, has been Hereditary in that Royal Family. Those who call him Prester-John, do it upon this foundation, that he sometimes carries a Cross in his hand. The Popish Missionaries boast that some of the late Kings have been Catholicks: But since the Jesuits, who had been powerfully establisht in that Countrey, have been Banish'd thence; the Papists complain of the Persecution, their followers have suffered in those parts. The Abissins have a great number of Churches, where Divine Service is performed much after the same manner it is here. This Land is temperate, unless in the Valleys, where it is very hot, and upon some Mountains, where it is cold. The Aethiopians, are the most ancient People in the World, and boast of having never been driven from their Countrey. They are dexterous, active, blith, and perform better than other people in great Employments: The Mahometans are used to Spirit away the Abissin Children, and go sell them to Indian Princes. They are so-so Souldiers for Africans; but they have not the Art of Building, nor of Grinding their Corn; and they often eat Cows flesh all raw, with Salt and Pepper, which they look upon as a peculiar Delicacy. They have Civet-Cats, and make use of Cloth, Stones, Salt; and little pieces of Iron, instead of money; for which purpose, they also use Gold, which they give by weight. They do not work in their Mines of Gold, and Silver of Narea, which has given occasion to say of their Prince, That he might, with his Treasures, purchase whole Worlds. The King of Abissinia, to whom is also given the title of Emperour, is Absolute in all the Territories of his Dominions; And this it is that makes his principal Revenue; He commonly keeps his Court in the open Field, sometimes in one place, sometimes an other: He has few Cities, but a great number of Villages. Several places upon the Frontier of the Galles, have been fortified, for the security of the Inhabitants, against the incursions of those people, the capital Enemies of the Abissins. The Turks hold the City of Suaquem, upon the Red Sea, whither the Vice-Roy of Barnagasse has commonly sent a Tribute of a thousand Ounces of Gold. There are several Relations of Aethiopia, and for the most part fabulous: But the Jesuits pretend, that the late ones, they have published, to be the most certain.

According to the Account of an Abissin Ambassadour, sent to the Grand Seignior in the Year 1657, Gonthar was the abode of the Emperour. Four Kings were tributary to him: The King of Sennar, which is a hot Country, paid him his Tribute in Horses; the King of Narea, paid it him in Gold; The Kings of Bugia, and Doncala, payed it him in Linnen and Cloth. These Dominions are not of so great an extent, nor of the same scituation, they have hitherto been shown us. The Galles on one side, have subdued several great Provinces in the Southern part, and the Moores have rendred themselves Masters of several places all along upon the Red Sea, upon the Coast of Abex. According to the late Relations, the Sources of the Nile, are placed in the Province of the Agaux, at twelve Degrees of Northern Latitude, which shows in the Cart, the difference of above thirty of those Degrees. That famous River goes first of all towards the North, and then towards the East, across the Lake of Bardambea: from thence towards the South, and towards the West, so to return to take its Course pretty near its Sources towards the North, and to continue it thro' Aegypt.

Twenty four small Kingdoms have been commonly accounted in Abissinia; that of Amara, has a Fortress upon a Mountain, called Amba Guexem, where formerly were kept the Princes of the Royal Blood. Goyama, is almost environed with the Nile: Which has given some occasion to say, that it is the Island Meroe. There is in that of Tigermahon, the City of Caxumo, or Aceum, which is said to have been the Residence of the Queen of Sheba; several of the Abissin Kings, have held their Coronation in that Town. Dambea has the famous Lake, Bar-Dambea, and's not very far off the City of Gorgora, one of the last Residences of the Kings. The Coast of Abex upon the Red Sea, is full of Woods. The tongue of the ancient Troglodites, who inhabited it, had this peculiarity, that it resembled whistling. Some have endeavoured to persuade the World, that the King of the Abissins might very much incommode the Grand Seignior, if he diverted the Waters of the Nile into the Red Sea, and so render Aegypt dry: This proposition has rendred them ridiculous, because there are Mountains, that must of necessity be cut through, for the bringing this about, and that these Mountains, which have the Sources of several great Rivers, make Aethiopia one of the highest Countreys of all Africa. Albuquerque Vice-Roy of the East-Indies, for the King of Portugal, seems to have had the same design, but he did not pursue the putting it into execution. He it was, who would have caused the Body of Mahomet to be stollen away, and have pillaged Mocha with three hundred Horse, which he had sent from Ormus, upon Ships made on purpose for this Design.

1695. A New Body of Geography by A. Sewall & T. Child.

AETHIOPIA.

AEThiopia contains almost one half of Africa; it is divided into two parts; 1. Aethiopia Superior, or Interior; the Upper, or Inward Aethiopia, or Abyssinia. 2. Aethiopia Inferior, or Exterior; the Lower, or Outward Aethiopia. The 1. contains several Kingdoms: The 2. comprehends the Regions of Loango, Cakonga, Congo, Angola, Monomotopa, Monoemugi, the Coasts of Cafrorie, Zanguebar, Ajan, and Abex; which are more exactly distinguished under the following Heads.

AETHIOPIA Superior, or Abyssinia, Abassenia, or Abissinia.

THis Country hath many Names; Marmol calls it the Kingdom of the Abixins. The Word Abissinia is taken from the inhabitants, whom the Arabians call Abassi, or Habaschi, or as well Absenians, who after they had inhabited Arabia Faelix for some ages, passed over the Red Sea into Africa.

This Empire was of far greater extent heretofore, than now it is. The Turks, Arabians, Gauls, and other people near adjoyning, have made such encroachments upon it, that the present Emperour of the Abissines, doth not govern above half the Countries, which his Predecessors possessed before him.

The Antient Abyssinia was bounded on the North with part of Nubia, the Red Sea, and Aegypt. On the West with part of Nubia, Nigritia, and Congo. On the South by the Kingdom of Monoemugi. And on the East by Zanguebar. The extent of it is from the 13 D. 30 min. of Southern Latitude, to the 22 D. 30 min. of Northern Latitude, which makes about 720 of the great French leagues; and much about the same proportion from West to East. It contains 26 Kingdoms, and 14 principal Provinces.

Abyssinia at present reaches no farther, than from the end of the 7 D. to the 16 D. 9 min. of Northern Latitude. From South to North, which is about 420 leagues, and from West to East from the 62 D. 50 min. to the 73 D. 40 min. of Longitude, which contains little less than 200 leagues.

The Air is very temperate upon the Mountains and in the Plains; but it is extremely hot in the Valleys. The Soil is of different natures, according to the Countries: In some places there are nothing but Rocks, and deep Caverns; on the contrary, it is very fruitful by the Rivers, and in the Plains. Some Provinces produce Rice, Millet, Barley, Maze, Agousta, and Machella, Bread-Corn, and Raisins. They have abundance of Ginger, Sugar, Honey, Wax, Cotton, and Flax. There are almost every where Mines of Gold, Silver, Tin, Copper, Lead, Iron, and Brimstone; all sorts of Tame and Wild Creatures; as Sheep, Goats, Cows, Oxen, Horses, Camels, Elephants, Hares, Does, Stags, Wild-Boars, Monkeys, Tigers, Lyons, Panthers, Rhinoceros, Wolves, Apes, and several sorts of Fowl and Venison. Their Rivers affords Crocodiles, and Sea Ho•ses. At sometimes there are such abundance of Locust, that the Air is darkened with them, and their Harvest and Plants suffer much damage by them. They have whole mountains of Pit Salt, especially in the borders of Tegre and Angot, and there is one Mountain of Red Salt, very useful for several Medicines. They have excellent Antimony, which is very much used by them for Physick; they sow and gather in their Harvest at the same time. In some places they have 3 Harvests in a year; besides all the grains that we have in Europe, they have another grain, which they call Tef, of which they make excellent Bread. They depend so much upon the fruitfulness of the Earth, that they make no other Provision. The Abyssines have great plenty of Food, as also of Honey; their ground brings forth all sorts of Pot, Sweet, and Physical Herbs: Pears and Apples, seldom come to maturity there, because of the violent storms which happen in their Season. They have Cittron, Orange, and Pomegranate Trees, many Fish Ponds also. Their Oxen are of a prodigious bigness: They have a great number of very brisk Horses, but they never shooe them; their Sheep have tails so big, that some weigh 50 pound. Elephants often appear by hundreds in a Troop, who do a great deal of mischief in their Fields, breaking down the Trees, and treading down their Corn. Nevertheless they'll run away at the sight of men, if they do not beat them. The Cameleopard is not so big bodied, or limb'd, as the Elephant, but it is a great deal higher, insomuch that a man on Horseback may ride under his belly. Here are Unicorns which have the Horn in the middle of the forehead; it is like a Goat, and goes very swift. The Hippo-potamos, or River Horse, hath an Head like an Horse, but the rest of his Body is very unlike, it is twice as big as an Ox, and are often seen in the Lake of Tzanie, and Bambea; they often turn over Boats, to devour the men, and feed also upon the Herbs of the Field; they fly away at the sight of Fire. Their flesh is good to eat, and therefore the people often go to fish for this Amphibious Animal. In the River Tabaze, there are abundance of Crocodiles, more than in any other River, because it runs into the Nile. They have Water-Lizards, about the bigness of a Cat; they have a tail so strong and sharp, that at one blow they will cut off a mans leg. In the Lake and Rivers of Abyssinia, are also Crampfish, which cause a numbness, and extraordinary trembling in those that touch them. Nevertheless they use it against the tertian an quartan Ague, by tying the sick person to a Plank, and applying this fish to him, which causes a violent pain in all his body, but the fit never returns again. They have a great number of Ostriches, which will run very swift, but can't fly. This Country produceth abundance of Serpents, of which the biggest, which we call Dragons, are not dangerous, unless in biting. The most venemous are a certain Amphibious Serpent, of a pale red colour, of the length and bigness of a mans Arm, the breath of them kills all that comes within the scent of it. They have abundance of Bees, especially the little black ones, they keep in the ground, and make excellent Honey, and their Wax is extraordinarily white; they have no sting, and hide their nests so close under ground, that it is much trouble to come at them. They have also great Ants, who march together like an Army ordered for Battle, they devour all they find, and bite men very violently, they do not make provision for Winter, as other Ants do.

The Abyssines are neither cruel nor bloody, they seldom quarrel one with another. The Abyssines of Nezea much excel all the rest, in ingenuity, justice, courage, and other vertues. They make the best Servants in the World, for they will do any thing you'll have them: Those of Tigre are inconstant, treacherous, and revengeful. These people are better shaped than the Negro's, and have not so very flat Noses, nor such thick Lips. They are of a yellowish swarthy complexion, their bodies are reddish, but very active, and almost indefatigable in getting up the Rocks. They live a long time. Besides those Abyssines that are Christians, there are many of them Jews, Mahometans, and Pagans. Lastly, They are very kind to Strangers, and very civil to all the World. They are lazy, and take no care for the future. They read the Scriptures much, and have a great veneration for the Sacrament, and Church, into which they never enter but bare-footed.

It is said that the Abyssines received the Christian Faith by the means of Queen Candace, whose Eunuch S. Philip baptized; and that they were afterwards instructed by S. Thomas, S. Matthew, and S. Bartholomew, and have ever since preserved the name and profession of Christians, but have been seduced into the Heresies of Eutyches, and Dioscorus. Their Patriarch is inferior to the Patriarch of the Copthti, whose See is at Alexandria, and who ought to confirm him: Nevertheless, the Aethiopians prove by their History, that Candace was Queen only of the Isle of Meroe, and that they have been converted to the Christian Faith, no longer than the days of Athanasius: They circumcise their Children, and after Baptize them. For this 50 years the Catholick Religion hath lost ground much. The Schismaticks celebrate Divine Service there after the usage of the Greeks.

Aethiopia Superior, or the Higher Aethiopia, is govern'd by a Prince, whom the Inhabitants call Negus, but some call him very improperly Prestre-John, for it was an Emperor of Tartary which was called by this name heretofore. The Persians call him Prester-Cham, i. e. The Prince of the Worshippers; or Prestegiani and Apostolici, because he was a Christian: In Aethiopia he is called nothing but Negusch, i. e. King. This Monarch hath no settled Residence, but he hath 6000 Tents carried along with him, for himself and Retinue; his Children are brought up in the City of Amara, where there is a University, till they take out one of them to succeed after the death of his Father. The Kings, Princes, and Lords of this Empire are all Tributary. Marmol says, that there are 3 Kings in the Isle of Guequere, or Meroe, who are at Wars continually one with another; the one is an Idolater, the other a Mahometan, and the third a Christian, and subject to the Emperor of the Abyssines. The greatest part of the Coast of Abex is in the Dominion of the Grand Seignior.

The Emperor of the Abyssines marches in great state, few people can speak to him or see him: His Face is always covered. His ordinary Guard is 12000 Souldiers, his Council is made up of 120 persons. His common Army is 40000 Horse, and 60000 Foot. They are allowed to make Wine of their Grapes only for the Emperor and Patriarch; their usual drink is Cyder or Metheglin, which hath the taste and effect of Malmsey.

The Nile is the most remarkable River in Abyssinia and Africa, which receives into it on the right side of it, the Rivers Gema, Gamara, Obea, Croix, and Takaze, which last is filled with the Waters of Mareb; on the left side of it, Choloy, Brenty, Baxilo, Checan, and Maleg, which is united with the River Angila. There are also other Rivers, that is to say, Zebe, which comes out of the Kingdom of Nerea; Marhe, which rises out of the Lake of Zoai, in the Kingdom of Doge, and which, after it hath received the River Hoaxe into it, runs from West to East. As to the Nile, the source of it hath been unknown in all the former ages, but in this last age it hath been discovered by the European Travellers to be in the Kingdom of Goiame. The first fall of Nilus, or Cataract is 33 fathom high, and lyes near the City Depcan, or Depecan.. The second fall, or Cataract is about 100 fathom; after this fall, it makes such a roaring, that it may be heard three leagues; the cause of which is, that it runs between seven Rocks in so narrow a passage, that it can't be seen. After the third fall, which is in the confines of Nubia and Aegypt, near the Mountain Gianadel, it receives the River Nubia into it. As to the overflowing of this River, I do not doubt, but that the Rains, which begin to fall in Abyssinia about the first of June, which is the Winter of that Country, are the chief cause of it. The Emperor of Abyssinia hath at present only the following Provinces and Kingdoms under his Government.

Abyssinia is divided into these several parts.

• 1. Part of Tigre,
  • Tigre, or Ausen.
  • ...Caxumo, Amba.
  • Fremone, or Malgoa.
  • ...Geileiter, Zabalam.
  • Sartoera, 5 Forts.
  • Bisa, or Vision.
  • Dabarva, or Barva.
• 2. Bagamedri,
  • ...Bagamedri.
  • ...Dar-fogor.
  • ...Atsana.
  • ...Acata, Caga.
• 3. Dambea,
  • ...Dencas, Sena.
  • The Old Gorgone.
  • ...Ganeta de Jesu.
  • ...Depsan, Goga.
  • New Gorgone.
  • ...Mercoreca.
• 4. Goiame,
  • ...Tavia, Nobesse.
  • ...Colete, Sarca.
  • 2. People,
    • ...Agoat,
    • ...Gafates.
• 5. Amara,
  • ...Amara.
  • ...Azel.
• 6. Nerea,
  • ...Gavi.
  • ...Cangaro.
• 7. Holeca,
  • ...Holeca.
• 8. Part of Xaoa,
  • ...Xaoa.
• 9. Angot,
  • ...Dofarzo.
  • ...Corcora.
• 10. Damot,
  • ...Damot.
  • ...Gabra.
• 11. Dankali,
  • Agedale, a Fort.
  • Bailarium, a Fort and Haven.
• 12. Fatagar,
  • ...Montague du Lac.
• 13. Adel, or Zeilan,
  • ...Avea Gurule.
  • Zailad, a Port.
  • ...Tuca.
• 14. Balli.
• 15. Zirigero.
• 16. Rosanegus.
• 17. Roxa, or Boxa.
• 18. Zeth.
• 19. Kuncho.
• 20. Mahala.
• 21. Bisame.
• 22. Fasculon.

12 other Provinces, Magaza; Salaoi; Olkais, or Old Marabet; Ogara; Abargele; Holkent; Seguede; Cemen, or Samen; Salatraoa; Okeka; Dobas, or Doba.

The Galas, or Galles, the Turks, and some other neighbouring people have taken away from the Emperour of Abyssinia good part of his States, as the Kingdom of Dankali, Angot, Damet, Ario, Fategar, Zingero, Rosanegus, Roxa, Zeth, Kuncho, Mahala, &c. So that Abyssinia is not what it once was.

AETHIOPIA Inferior, or the Lower Aethiopia. The Kingdom of LOANGO. Loangum.

THe Kingdom of Loango, or Lovango, called of old the Country of the Bramas, begins below the Cape of S. Catherine, and reaches from North to South, to the little River Lovango, Louise, or Comby, which parts it from the Kingdom of Cakongo; having on the East the Anzicans, and the Region of Pombo, and on the West the Aethiopick Ocean. The extent of it from South to North, is 54 leagues from the 2 D. to the 3 D. 40 min. of Southern Latitude, and the length of it from West to East, is 120 from the 35 degree to the 41 D. 20 min. Longitude. The principal parts or Provinces of this Kingdom are, Lonangiri, Lacrugo-mongo, Cylongo, and Pyri; to which these neighbouring Countries are joyned, Majumba, Dingi, Cylongotiamacango, Sefe, and Coby.

The Air is very healthful, altho it be very hot: The Region of Lovango produces several sorts of Plants and Fruits. They have abundance of Pot-Herbs, Goards, Sugar-Canes, Tobacco, Anana's, &c.

They have plenty of Beasts; as Hogs, Cows, Goats, Fowl, all sorts of Venison, which is little accounted of. Their Trade is chiefly in Slaves, Ivory, Copper, Tin, Lead and I•on, which they fetch from the Mines of Sondi, which are at a great distance from them; Cotton, and several sorts of Beasts.

The Inhabitants are very strong, good shaped, jealous, active, vigilant, but much given to pleasures, very suspicious of Strangers. Their habits are made of Palm-leaves woven together, adorned with the Feathers of Parrots, and other Birds. Their Women are made Slaves to their Husbands, they never speak to them almost but upon their knees; and make all things necessary for life, unless drink, which is the only business of the men.

When any one of them dye, his Relations do nothing but cry and howl, lay his Body in the open streets, and stand about it in throngs, and ask it what is the matter that it dyed, whether it wanted food: They bury all the goods of the dead, and all that is valuable, with his Body.

This Kingdom was heretofore divided into many Soveraignties, and inhabited by several sorts of people, which were at continual War with one another a long time, and eat one another, as they do still at Jagos. After several Revolutions, all these several Countries fell under the Dominion of the King of Lovango; who now reigns with great authority over his Subjects: This King hath several Ministers of State, who are at this time Governours of Provinces.

Their Religion consists, as well as the peoples of Cakengo and Goy, in foolish Superstitions: They have but a very obscure knowledge of a God: They invoke Domestick and Field Daemons.

The King of Lovango is an extraordinary Prince in all things: He hath 7000 Women, which he sets at work in a Seraglio, and makes choice of some of them only for his pleasure: When any of the Kings Wives are with Child, if she be suspected of falshood to his Bed, they make her ••ink the Cup of Freedom, or Proof to the Man that hath debauch'd het; the poor woman is condemned to be burnt, and the pretended or real Adulterer is put to the same punishment. The Council of State chuse the most aged of the Royal Family, and give her the Name of the Macenda, that is, the Kings Mother, or Queen Regent, and the King is obliged to give her as much respect as his own Mother; he must not undertake any thing without first consulting her, and may not deny her any thing without running a great hazard. It is not good to marry this Regent, no more than the Kings Mother or Sisters, for they may lye with as many men as they will, and not be accused of any crime for it. The Kings Children do not succeed him in his Government, but his Brothers in their order. The Kings Garments and Robes are made of Stuffs brought out of Europe. His Gentlemen carry upon their Left Arm a Wild Cats Skin, as his other Subjects have one upon their Girdles. The King makes but two Meals, for which he hath two Houses set apart on purpose: In the one he eats, in the other he drinks: No man may see him eat or drink upon pain of Death: They sound a Bell to give notice when the Kings Dinner is set on to the Table. He never comes out of his Palace, unless it be upon some great Festivals, or about some affair of very great importance.

The Kingdom of Loango is divided into 4 Provinces, which belong to it, and into such as adjoyn to it, as you see them set down in the following Table, with the most considerable Cities.

The Kingdom of Loango in two parts.

• 1. The 4 Provinces of Loango,
  • ...Lovangiri,
    • ...Lovango,
    • ...Salasi.
  • ...Lovango,
    • ...Kaie, Boeke.
  • ...Longo.
    • ...Makonde.
  • ...Cylongo,
    • ...Cylongo.
    • ...Hamba, Senie.
    • ...Katoe, Genno.
  • ...Piri,
    • ...Kango.
• 2. The Neighbouring Countries,
  • ...Majumba,
    • ...Majumba.
  • ...Dingi,
    • ...Dingi.
  • ...Cylongotia.
  • ...Mocango.
  • ...Sefe.
  • ...Coby.

The Kingdom of ANSICO and JAGOS. Regnum Ansicanum.

THis Kingdom is bounded on the North with the People called Mosonles, on the West with the Country of the Amboes, which joyns to Lovango; on the South with the Provinces of Songo and Sondo, which are subject to the Kingdom of Congo, and on the East with the River Ʋmber, which runs into the River Zaire, and the Kingdom of Lovango.

The Air and Soil are of the same nature with Loango; it hath red and white Sanders, Mines of Copper, Rhinoceros's, which come from Congo, many Lyons, and other wild Beasts, Cattel, and Venison.

The Inhabitants, commonly called Ansecams, or Ansicos, and Jagos, are very vigorous and brisk; they climb up into Mountains and Rocks, and value not their lives, which makes them not fear their Enemies: They are not at all deceitful, altho they be very inhumane; they eat mans Flesh, and have publick Butcheries for it: The Father eats without any trouble or regret the flesh of his Son, and the Son of the Father, and so Brothers and Sisters eat one another, and assoon as their breath is out of their body they eat them. The Women are handsome: The common people go naked from the Girdle upwards, and without Shooes: People of no•e wear Bonnets made of Red or Black Velvet, brought from Portugal. They have as many Wives as they please, without any trouble to bring up their Children: Some Mothers are so cruel, that they will eat them as soon as they are born. They have neither Lands, nor Inheritances, nor fixed •abitations: They wander from one place to another like the Arabians, and live only by Theft, and killing men. Their Money, or Symbos, is a kind of Shell, which they catch at Lovando, in the Kingdom of Angola; whither they go to get Salt, Glasses, Knives, Silk, and other Merchandizes, which they exchange for Slaves.

The Sun is their God, which they represent under the figure of a Man, and the Moon of a W•man: They adore also a great number of f••s•redge• Gods; every one hath his own, which they consult in all their undertakings.

Their Arms are a Bow and Arrow, which they will draw with a great deal of ni•bleness and skill.

The King of Ansico commands 13 Kingdoms, and is accounted a very powerful Monarch. The Jagos are the most c••el of all the A•thropo-ph•gi, or Men-eaters.

The Kingdom of CACONGO. Cacongum.

THe Kingdom of Cacongo is bounded on the North by the River of Lovango Louise, on the West with the Ocean, on the South with the Kingdom of Goy, and River Sombo.

The principal Cities are ••••go the Metropolis, the Great Cascais, Malembas, the Little Cascais, Cabinde, which is a Bay.

The Soil is not very fruitful, because 'tis not well tilled: Here is a great trade for certain pieces of Stuff, which the D• •h call Kussen-bladen; Black Bonnets, Iron Blades, Pearls, Axes, and other Iron Tools, Tobacco, Powder of Red Wood, Linnen Cloaths, and other foreign Merchandizes.

These people have the same Manners, Religion, and Government with those of L•ongo. The King by force of a Law dares not touch any Merchandize that comes out of Europe.

The Kingdom of GOY. Goium.

THis little Kingdom is bounded on the North and East with the Kingdom of Cacongo, on the South with the River Zaire, and on the West with the Ocean: The chief City is of the same name upon the Coasts, well peopled, and very pleasant, next to the Gulph of Cabinde. The Portugueze have a Magazine there.

It is a good Country, and affords plenty of Millet, Beans, several sorts of Fruit, Plants and •rap•s; the Sea and Rivers have great store of Fish.

In the year 1631 the Earl of Songo entred with an Army into the Country of Goy, conquered the King of it, deposed him from his Throne, and set up his own Son: Ever since that time this Earl and the Kings of Loango and Goy live at peace. The King of Congo assumes to himself the Soveraignty of Cacongo and Goy, but the Princes which rule in each of them, oppose it vigorously, and act each of th•m as Kings in their Realm.

The Kingdom of CONGO. Regnum Congum.

GEographers do not agree about the Limits of this Kingdom; some bound it on the North with Lovango and Ansico, on the West with the A••iopick Ocean, on the South with Angola and Malemba, on the East with the Mountains; where there is p••nty of Cr• •al, Silver, Salt-petre; the River Verbele, and Gioquas, a People.

The Air is very h•t, especially four hours in the midst of the day; they feel no cold, unless during the Rains, and a• ••e in the night. Their Winter begins about thi• March, and their Summer in September. That which they call Winter, would be here one of our hottest Summers, only it is a very ••••y season: For 5 months, viz. April, June, J•ly, May and August, it commonly rains; in September and October the Rains are not so frequent; after which they have not one drop of Rain to the end of March.

The flowing of the Rivers in the rainy seasons, makes the Country produce plentifully all manner of Grains, Fruits, Plants and Provisions. The Province of Dembo hath fine Meadows, Orchards, a grain called Luco, about the bigness of our Mustard, Millet, Turkey-Wheat; it yields also Rice, Lemons, Oranges, Citrons, Banano's, Dates, Coco-nuts, Melons, G•ards, Cucumbers, Palm-wine▪ The Tree called Cola, which bears the most fragrant Fruit, of which the people eat continually; plenty of Ozegues, which i• a sort of Plumb of an excellent taste. The banks of the River Lecunde are planted with Ced•••, as far as S. Salvador: They make Boars of t••m and burn them. The Hollanders bring from thence Ca•••a and Tamarinds: They have an abundance of Beans and Poultry in the Sea-Towns of the Dutchy of Bamba, an• along the River Onza and Mandihora, Sugar-Can•s, large and small Ca•tle, especially Goats, which bring forth young 3 or 4 times a year: Indian Cocks, Hens, Ducks and Geese multiply strangely here: Their Elephants are of a prodigious bigness, their Teeth or Tusks weigh every one two hundred pounds: They have also Tygers, Buffles, and a sort of Wild-Horse, whose skin is spotted with white, black, red and blue; Empalanga's which are like an Elke or Ox, and have Horns like a Stag; Macoco's, or great Beasts, which have very long Legs, and slender, as well as their Neck; the skin of it is grizled, and streaked with white; they have two Horns very large, and sharp at the top; their Dung is like Sheeps, but smells like Musk or Civit: They have Wolves also, which they call Quembego's, bigger than our Foxes, Stags, Wild-Goats, Coneys, •a•es in abundance, Apes, Monkeys, Wild-B••rs, whose Tushes are an excellent Medicine against the Fevers and Person, by taking of the filings of it in Water; a sort of Deer, which they call Galungo's, Squirrels, Bears, Wild-Cats, Serpents, Vipers, Peacocks, Partridges wild and tame, Pheasants, Pidgeons, Turtles, Eagles, Falcons, Vultures, Hawks, Pelicans, Green-Parrots, Owls, Bees, 4 sorts of Ants, and a multitude of Flyes about the Rivers: One sort of Birds is very admirable among them, called Entiengie, it always keeps upon the Trees or in the Air, for if it touches the ground, it dyes: It is spotted with divers Colours; it hath always about it certain black Birds, called Embas, which are as it were its guard; 6 go before it, and 10 behind it. As soon as the van-guard is defeated, or faln into the Hunters-nets, the Rear-guard flyes, and so the Entiengie is taken. The skin of it is so very precious, that none but the King of Congo is allowed to wear it, or such Princes and great Lords as he shall give special permission to. The River Zaire produces abundance of Crocodiles, River-Horses and Water-Hogs. They have Mines of Copper, Iron and Silver, Quarries of Marble, Jaspers, Porphyry, and several other precious Stones.

The greatest part of the Inhabitants are Black, some few are Brown and Tawny; they are of a middle stature, and well-shaped in comparison of the other Negro's: They are fierce, and proud to their Neighbours, civil and courteous to Strangers, apt to drink too much Spanish Wine, and Aquavitae; they are brisk and courageous, and express themselves well enough, nevertheless 20 men of Europe would put 2000 people of Congo to flight. The people of Bamba are accounted the most courageous and valiant, some of them are so strong, that they will cleave a Slave in two at one blow with an Ax, cut off a Bulls Head, and lift an Hogshead of Wine that weighs 325 l. with one hand, and hold it up till it all runs out. Theft is not punished, and therefore they are most of them Thieves, of which the most dangerous are the Highway-men.

The Inhabitants, before the Portugueze entred into their Country, were Idolaters, every one worshipped what he pleased for his God, insomuch that some adored Dragons, Vipers, Serpents, Tygers, Herbs and Trees: They fall down flat on their faces before their Idols: The Portugueze planted Christianity there in 1484, but they were never good Christians, they are real Hypocrites.

The King of Congo is an absolute Prince over all his Subjects: His Revenue consists in a yearly Tribute, which his Vassals pay him in Millet, Simbos, and Cattle.

His Kingdom is divided into 6 Provinces, as is to be seen in this Table.

The Kingdom of Congo in 6 Provinces.

• 1. Damba,
  • ...Panga.
  • Diverse Lordships.
• 2. Songo, or Sontio,
  • ...Songo.
  • ...Pinde.
• 3. Sundo,
  • ...Sundo.
• 4. Pango,
  • ...Pango.
• 5. Bata,
  • ...Bata.
• 6. Pembo, or Condo-Ecango,
  • S. Salender, or Benza, or Ambascongo.

•he Provinces of BOKEMEALE, OCONGO and CONDE.

THe Province of Boke-meale, or Bouke-meyall, lyes North East of Lovango about 160 leagues from the Coast; the Inhabitants are Jagosites; they sell much Ivory to the people of Lovango; to whose King they pay Tribute, and are obliged to follow him in the Wars. There is a Forrest of 5 or 6 days Journey between Lovango and Boke-meale.

The Province of Ocango lyes on the East of Congo; their trade is in white Cloaths and Stuffs, made of the Bark of a Tree; the Inhabitants are too lazy to make Slaves of, which makes them not regarded; if they are put to any labour, they dye presently.

Conde, or Pembo-Ocango, is above 200 leagues from the Dutchy of Beta towards the North; it lyes along the Banks of the River Coango, which runs into the River Zaire.

The Kingdoms of FƲNGENO, MACOCO and GIRIBƲMA.

THe Kingdom of Fungeno, or Fungendo, lyes between the Rivers Zaire and Coango, on the East of Conde: The Portugueze buy Slaves there, and Stuffs made of the Bark of Matombe, which is made up of long strings like our Flax: These Stuffs are ready Money in Lovando and Angola: They also trade with the Inhabitants of Nimeamaye, which is a Kingdom that lyes South-East of Macoco.

The Kingdom of Macoco is a large Country on the North of Zaire, behind Congo, running for 2 or 300 leagues together upon the Coasts of Lovango and Congo: The Inhabitants call themselves Monsoles or Meticas: They are Anthropo-phagi, as well as the Jagosites. The King is looked upon as a very potent one, having 10 or 12 Kingdoms for his Vassals, and commanding a great breadth of Land; so that there are killed every day in his Palace 200 men, of which part are Criminals, the other part Slaves sent him for a Tribute. The flesh of these poor Creatures is dressed for the Dinner of the King and his Courtezans, as if it were Beef or Mutton, notwithstanding they have plenty of provision, and all kind of Beasts. The Portugueze send their Slaves, or Pombero's, to Monsol, the head City of this Kingdom, to trade for them; for they are of so great fidelity, that they trust all manner of businesses to them, after they have taught them to read, write, and cipher. The Riches of this King consists in Slaves, Simbos, or Indian Shells, and in small pieces of Stuff. His great Enemy is the King of Majuco, who is a mighty Prince.

The Kingdom of Giribuma, or Giringhomba, is on the North of Macoco: This King is very powerful, having 15 other Kings for his Vassals: He is Confederate with the Great Macoco, and their Subjects agree very much in the same Humours, Customs, and Superstitions.

The Province of POMBO, and Dutchy of AMBƲILA.

THis Province is about 160 leagues from the City of Lovango, near the Country of the Abyssines; it is tributary to the Great Macoco. The Negro's which inhabit the Coasts of Cafrerie seem to have taken their Laws and Customs from the people of Pombo; from whence it is that the Slaves, which are so faithful to the Portugueze, and which, being first taught to do all manner of business for them, are called Pombero's. An European could never endure the hunger, thirst, and toil, which they are forced to endure in going thither, which is the reason they are trusted.

The Dutchy of Ambuila, or Amboile, is 6 days journey in extent every way, having on the North and North-East the River Loze, which parts it from the Province of Oande; on the West Congo properly so called, on the South Cavangombe, and on the East the Country of Quingengo. This Country is very fruitful, and well husbanded: It feeds abundance of Cattel and Bears, great quantities of Fruit-trees: It hath 15 Seigniories in it, of which the 5 principal are, Matuy-Nungo-pingen, Hoiquoi, Ambole, Ambuilo propria and Lovando. They trade in Slaves, as they do at Pombo. Here is a Table of Congo in general.

Congo in general contains:

• Congo, a Kingdom.
• Bokemeale, a Province.
• Ocango, a Province.
• Conde, a Province.
• Fungendo, a Kingdom.
• Macoco, a Kingdom.
• Giribuma, a Kingdom.
• Majuco, a Kingdom.
• Nimeamaye, a Kingdom.
• Pombo, a Province.
• Ambuila, a Dutchy.
• Oando, a Province.
• Cavangombo, a Province.
• Quingendo, a Country.

The Kingdom of ANGOLA.

ANgola contains six principal parts: 1. The Kingdom of Angola specially so called. 2. The Isle of Lovendo. 3. The Kingdom of Quisama or Quissima. 4. The Province of Libolo. 5. The Country of Benguela. 6. The Kingdom of Mataman, or Glimbabi.

The Kingdom of Angola, or Bonde, or Dongo, lies between the Rivers Danda, and Coansa, or Quanza; it is bounded on the North by the Kingd. of Congo; on the West with the Ocean; on the South with Mataman; and on the East with the Kingdom of Mejamba, or Malemba. This Kingdom hath about 30 leagues of Coasts, and in the Country it is about 50 leagues from South to North, and almost as much from West to East. It is watered with several-Rivers, as Danda, Benga, Quansa, Lucala, Calucala, &c.

The Soil is naturally very dry and barren, but those places which lye by the River Dengo, bears plenty of Mand•noca, Millet, Beans; several sorts of Herbs, and Fruit Trees. In the years 1629, and 1630. Ferdinando Desousa, Governour of Lovando for the Portugueze, commanded all the inhabitants to till each of them a piece of Land. The breaking up of the ground seemed very strange to the people of Angolo, but when they saw what advantage they gained by it, they betook themselves diligently to Husbandry. The Country affords Beans, Oranges, Lemons, Dates, Anana's, Banano's, Patato's, Acosses, Coco-nuts, Anones, Guavo's, Gegoes, White-pepper; several sorts of Plants, as the Tree called Pao-del-cebra, or Serpent Wood, Mofrislasoucho, which is an excellent Medicine to expel Poison; Mondicoha, of the Root of which they make bread; Almesiga, which is a kind of Gum; Oron de Bitios, which is a kind of Mallows; Mofuma, which is a Tree, whose Wood is very slender; Alicondes, which is a great Tree, which is 12 or 15 Ells thick: Sugar Canes. They have several sorts of Beasts, especially at Enseca, as Tigers, Leopards, Buffles, Elephants, great Apes. Several Serpents of prodigious bigness; there are also diverse Lakes as Quihaeite, and Angolone; and in the River Qua•sa there is a Water Monster, which the Negro's call Ambisiangalo, and Pesiengoni, the Portugueze Pezzemouber, and the French Pilots a Siren. There are males and females of them, about 8 foot long, and 4 wide: They have the shape of a man in several parts of the Body, they live as well by Land as Waters, and cry out as men that have receive• a mortal Wound with a Dart or other Weapon. Their flesh hath the smell, taste, and figure of Swines. In their Lakes also there are Crocodiles, River-Horses, Oysters, Soles, Pilchards, Mackerels, Guilt-heads, some Whales, Bonito's, Roncadores, Corvines, Halicores, &c.

The Negro's about Lovendo S. Paulo, are wholly Idle; they are distinguished into 4 conditions. 1. Gentlemen, or Mocata's. 2. Artisans, or Labourers. 3. Quesico's, or the Slaves of the Country. 4. Slaves bought or taken in Wars. The Men marry as many Wives as they are able to keep, the chief of them hath some advantage above the rest. The Women that give their Children Suck, come not near their Husband, till their Children have Teeth; then the Relations being met together, one of them takes the Child, which is dressed accordingly, and being accompanied with the Friends, and whole Family, they go from one House to another, to beg something for the Child, which hath newly gotten its first Teeth.

There are reckoned eight principal Provinces in this Kingdom, every one of which is divided into several Lordships, as you may see in the following Table.

1. Lovando into 39. Lovando, S. Paulo. 2. Sinso. 3. Hamba 42. 4. O•collo. 5. Enseia. 6. Massingan 12. 7. Cambamba 60. 8. Embaco 60.

The Isle of LOVANDO, and Provinces of QƲISAMA, or Quissamba, and LIBOLO.

THe Isle of Lovando lyes just over against the City of Lovando S. Paulo in the 8 D. 40 min. of Southern Latitude; it is 10 leagues in length, and one in breadth; it hath 7 Towns in it, the chief of which is called, The Holy Spirit; it produces Oranges, Citrons, Lemons, Pomegranates, Figs, Bonano's, Coco-nuts and Grapes: They have Beasts and Monkeys, and find the finest Shells, especially Simbos, which they use for Money.

The Province of Quisana reaches from the mouth of Coanza above 30 leagues into the Continent: It is divided into several principalities, the chief of which are called Motchima, Zuozubi, Gango, Zuatatsa, Molunica, Cataiahaio, Zuino. It produces abundance of Millet, Mandicoha, Aliconds, and the Tree called Qualunberez, which is about the thickness of a man. This Tree by cutting the Bark sends forth a poysonous juice, a drop of which, if it be put into the Eyes, destroys the sight; and if it be taken inwardly, kills in a short time: The Fish likewise in any place of the River, where it falls, dye presently. The Soil feeds large and small Cattel, and Wild Beasts. It hath also Mines of Salt and Iron.

The Province of Libolo is on the South of Quisama, West of Monomotapa, North of Rio Longo and the States of Benguela: It contains several Lordships, whose names are not yet come to our knowledge. They have the same sorts of Beasts, Plants and Fruits as are in the Kingdom of Angola: The greatest part of it is subject to the King of Portugal. The Inhabitants are yet in their Pagan Errors, but may easily be converted. We have Ivory, Civet, and Slaves, from thence.

The Kingdoms of BENGƲELA, and MATAMAN, or Climbere.

THe Kingdom of Benguela reaches from the River Quansa to Cabo Negro, where the Kingdom of Mataman begins. In it is the Gulph of Maiseti, Cabo Ledo, C. falso, Cabo S. Bras, the Bay of Poultrey. This extent of Land is called Benguela Viella. Within 8 leagues of Rio-longo stands the Town of Mankicongo, at the foot of a Mountain: The Portugueze have a Magazine there. After is the Bay of Benguela, and La bonne Bay. There are eight large Towns about Benguela, which are subject to it, which are called, Malonde, Petinga, Manikisomba, Maninomma, Pikene, Mavikibinde, Mondombes, or Mardendes. In this Country, among many other kinds of Wild Beasts, there is one called the Abada, which is about the bigness of a Colt of 2 years old: It hath a Horn in the Forehead, and another in the Nape of the Neck: These two Horns are very excellent and certain Remedies against several distempers.

The Kingdom of Mataman or Climbere is on the South of Angola, on the West of the River Bagamadiri, which parts it from Monomotapa; on the North with the River Bravagul, and the Mountains of the Moon; on the East with the Aethiopick Ocean: So that the extent of it from Cabo Negro to the Mouth of the River Bravagul is about 70 leagues: The Mountains here are covered some of them with Snow, others with Crystal and Silver. Along the Coasts there are the Cape of Ruipez, Golso Prio, Backo de Bazado, where they catch Sea-mews. The Air of this Country is very temperate, and the Soil produces all sorts of provisions. The Kingdom is subject to a Prince who is very arbitrary, tho on the Coasts there are several Princes which assume the Title of Kings.

CAFRERIA, or the Coast of Caftares. Cafria, aut Ca•rorum Regia.

CAfreria reaches from the Kingdom of Mataman as far as the Cape of Good Hope, and then ascends again Northward as far as the Coasts of Zanguebar, so encompassing the Empires of Monomotapa and Monocmugi, except on the North side of them: So that it hath on the West, South, and East, the Sea of Caftares. The Mountains which part it from Monomotapa have at their bottoms rich Valleys, and several Rivers, which water the Plains, and divide the Country into many pretty Regions and parts.

The Air of this Country, especially about the Cape of Good Hope, is pure, clear, and serene; it is neither too hot nor too cold, except it be in the months of June and July, which is a time of cold mists, Snow, and violent Tempests, which come from the tops of the Mountains, and out of the Clouds, and seem to force the Sea out of its bounds, and overflow the Earth: It is not good then to dwell on those Coasts. The Winter there is in May, June and July; it rains violently for the two first months.

The Soil is fit to bear all manner of Fruits; it is fat and slimy in most places, rocky and sandy in some others. The Dutch have behind their Fort Fields planted with Coleworts, Tobacco, Corn, &c. They have abundance of Fruits, Flowers, Trees and Beasts, both great and small Cattel, Oxen of an extraordinary bigness, Sheep which have very long Legs, and very great Tails: The Forests are full of Stags, Deer, Boars, Goats, Roe-Bucks, Coneys, Hares, Wolves, Tygers, Leopards, Lyons, Elephants and Rhinoceros's, of which there is one kind that hath two Horns upon the Nose. In the adjoyning Ocean there are several Sea-monsters, which live by Land, as well as Water, as Sea-Coneys and Dogs, Sea-Horses, Hogs, Cats, Bears, and Wolves, Sea-Oxen and Hobgoblins, &c. which you may see feeding in the Meadows at a distance from the Sea: They have also Birds that live both by Land and Water, which never go far from the Coasts.

The people of Cafrerie, or Hotentots, especially those that dwell about the Cape, are lean, ill-favour'd, and of a large stature; they are of a yellow and tawny complexion, as the Mulato's, and people of Japon. The people that dwell about Ʋlasbay are smaller, and of a brown and reddish colour, having short frizled hair, large wrinkled foreheads, good Eyes, black and sparkling, flat-nosed, thick lips, white teeth, narrow shoulders, too big arms, slender wrists, well made hands, long fingers, suffering their nails to grow to a great length; they have lank bellies, and their posteriors very fat, small legs and feet; they are so swift in running, and so well breathed withal, that they will catch a Bull by chase. These people live in great ignorance, but begin a little to grow more understanding, by their commerce with the Europeans. Nevertheless we may observe some remainders of Natural Light amongst them; their love to each other, their fidelity, and contempt of riches, may make Christians ashamed; they are very cauteous of losing the honour of carrying themselves well, and seldom or never are guilty of any extravagancy or theft, unless they are drunk with eating the Root of Dacha, or are reduced to extreme poverty. It is true, that they are ill habited; their Arms are a Bow, Arrow and Pikes.

Their ordinary food is certain round Roots, which their Women gather, and cook for them either in Water, or upon the Coals. They do not kill their Beasts, unless they be old or sick; they eat the Fish which they find dead upon the shores, and dead carcasses without any dressing. Their chief trade consists in making Iron heads for their Arrows and Pikes, and making bulrush Mats for their Cabbins. The greatest part of them go a fishing, or a hunting of Wild Beasts. Their Marriages and Funerals are very odd and fantastical, as is also their administration of Justice. Their Language is so confused, that it is more like the sound of Bells than a distinct voice; they are very hardly understood, but they learn the language of Foreigners very easily; they buy nothing in their trade, but Instruments of Iron, and what is just necessary. As for their Religion, they acknowledge a supreme power, which governs the Winds, Rain, seasons, heat and cold, but do not think themselves obliged to worship him. It is true, they seem to give some worship to the Moon; and some part of the Eastern Coasts towards Sofola are Mahometans, there are also some Christians, which the Portugueze and Dutch have converted since they have s•ttled there.

Cafrerie is some part of it subject to the Emperour of Monomotapa; the King of Mataman also hath another part of it towards the North and West; the King of Sofola comm•nds that part of it which is toward the Coasts of Zangu•bar. As for the people which live in the South parts, some obey Princes and Lords, which they have chosen to govern them, others live without King, Faith, or Law, as it is said ordinarily of the people of Cafrerie. The Dutch have a Fort with a Colony near the Cape of Good Hope.

Besides the Kingdom of M•taman, which is not reckoned in Cafrerie, and Sofola, which is tri•utary to the Portugueze, this Country may be divided into several people, who have each of them Governours of their own, whose names this Table will give you a Catalogue of.

Cafrerie hath these parts:

• 1. The Kingdom of Sofola, where are, Sofola, the chief City, &c.
• 2. Diverse people, who have no Cities,
  • ...Go•ingh••o••s.
  • ...Go•r•••••as.
  • ...Corin••••quas.
  • ...Cochoquas.
  • The Great Garig•riquas.

The lesser Gariguriquas, Hasaas, Colonas, Chainonquas, Sonquas, Namaquas, Heus•quas, Brigondis, Hancumquas, The Isles of Lapini, Daimi, and the French Islands.

The Empire of MONOMOTAPA. Monomotapa Imperium.

MOnomotapa, or Benomotapa, or Benomotaxa, is bounded with the Kingdom of Sofola, and Empire of Monoc•nugi on the North East; on the North with the Mountains of the Moon; on the West, South and East with the Coast of C•frerie. The Extent of it from South to North is about 300 leagues, and from West to East 240 between the 13 D. and 31 of Southern Latitude, and between the 44 and 57 D. 30 min. of Longitude.

The Air is temperare, the Soil fruitful in Pasturage, Grains, Plants, Fruits and Metals, but chiefly in Sugar-Canes, which spring up there without any labour or art. This Country is not peopled eve•y where. The Inhabitants are rich in great Cattel, which they ••eem more th•n Gold. They have Ostriches as big as Oxen. They have many Mines of Gold, and their Rivers bring down a great deal of it in their Sand.

The Inhabitants are Negro's well fashioned, hail, strong, and of a good stature; they are very lively and vigorous, and love War. Their common food are Cakes of Rice, Millet, and the Root of Ignamez, Salt Beef; their drink sowr Milk, and the Oyl of Susiman. The King drinks nothing but Palm-wine, or Metheglin, perfum'd with Musk and Amber; they spend two pounds of Gold to perfume him every day, and never burn any thing before him but perfumed Torches. The Prince never goes out of his Palace unless they kill a Beast, that the Priests by inspecting the Entrails may foretel the event of his Journey.

The Kings never change their fashions: Their Habit is a long Silk Robe of Stuff made in their Country: They will never endure to wear any foreign Stuffs for fear of Poison. It is allowed them to have as many Wives as they can keep; the first is the Mistress, and the other are accounted but as Servants. The King hath ab•ve 1000, which are the Daughters of his Vassals; the first is the Queen, and the eldest of her Children is Successor to the Crown. Most of the People go naked from the Girdle upwards. They honour the dead so much, that every one preserves the B•nes of the •eads of his Family, and of his Friends. Altho they pay no Tribute, yet they never come before the King, nor his great Lords, unless they make them some rich Presents; especially the Merchants. The Portugueze have obtained of this Monarch by their Petition, a large Province, where there are many Mines of Gold. Their Arms are a Bow and Arrows, Darts, Cuttela's, Poniards and Cimetres. The King has an Army of Foot, for they have no Horse in their Country: His Guard is ordinarily some Regiments of Women, who burn off their Right Breasts, as the antient Amazons did, to draw their Bows more easily; they shoot their Enemies backward, •••ming as if they would fly, and when their Enemy is n•ar they turn them, and slay all that oppose their passage. He hath also for his Guards a Pac•ae, or Company of two hundred Masti•fs, or great Dogs.

The Emperor of Monomotapa, or Mane-Motapa, exacts an abundance of Reverence of his Subjects; all the World speak to him on their Knees, except the Portugueze, and his most beloved Favourites. To keep the Tributary Princes of his Kingdom in their Duty, and oblige them to espouse his Interests, he causeth all the Princes their Successors, to be brought up in his Court, that by his kind usage of them, he may engage them to be faithful to him. He sends his Embassadors every year to all his Great Men, that depend upon him, to give them Fire; and every one of them, quenches out their own, to come and take some of the Emperors.

They execute Justice exactly in the Realm. The Judges give sentence without any delay, or any stay, assoon as they have heard the Parties and their Witnesses; but the King confirms and disanuls their sentence, as the Case requires.

As to their Religion they are most of them Idolaters; they call the supreme God, Mazia, or A•uno, and believe him the Creator of the World. They make a Feast on the first day they see the New Moon, and upon the Emperors Nativity. They honour a Virgin, whom they call Peru, very much, and have Convents of Women. The Portugueze have converted a great number of these People; the Emperor, his Mother, and above 300 Gentlemen, were baptized in 1560, by Gonsalvo the Jesuit; but after being perswaded by 4 Turks, that the Jesuit was a Conjurer, he cut off his Head; yet repenting not long after of the fact, he punished the Musulmans with the same punishment for their Calumnits.

Monomotapa is divided into 6 principal parts, which are Monomotapa propria. The Kingdoms of Agag and Baro. The Province of Toraca. The Kingdoms of Inhambane and Inhamior, with all their dependants, which are very considerable; and are better distinguished in the following Table, with the chief Cities.

• 1. Monomotapa propria,
  • ...Monomotapa.
  • Zimbaoes, a Fort.
  • ...Tete, Sena, Zedeia.
  • ...Mogar, Degma, Juros.
  • ...Mosata, Samot, Cuggi.
  • ...Tialso, Lotaia.
  • ...Garma, Calbaras.
  • ...Quitiqui, Agrasede.
  • ...Hagala, Vigisimagna.
• 2. The Kingdom of Baro,
  • Baro, or Bara.
  • ...Gallila, Zet.
  • ...Doldel, Carma.
  • ...Armeta, Matafuna.
• 3. The Kingdom of Agag,
  • ...Agag.
  • ...Gamba.
• 4. The Kingdom of Inhambane,
  • Tonge, or Tongue.
• 5. The Kingdom of Inhamior,
  • ..... .....
• 6. The Province of Toraca, or Butca,
  • Butica, or Faluca.
  • ...Amara.
  • ...Zenebra.

The Emperor of Monomotapa hath his Residence in the City of Monomotapa, which stands upon the River of the H. Spirit, in the 26 D. of Southern Latitude, and 11 of Longitude. The City of Zimbaoes is the place of this Emperors Delight and Pleasure; it is situated about the middle of his Kingdom, in the 25 Degree of Southern Latitude, on the North East of Monomotapa: It is accounted the Miracle of this Kingdom, being built of great hewen Free-stone, whereas all the other Cities are built of Wood.

The Kingdoms of Agag and Baro are ruled by Kings tributary to the Emperor of Monomotapa; they lye on the West of the Negro's Country. The Province of Toraca, or Totoa and Batua, lyes between the Mountains of the Moon, and the Cape of Corrientes, and the River Magnice towards the North, and River of Bravagul on the West. The ground of this Province, near the Coasts, is chiefly Meadows without Trees. They have many Elephants and fine Salt Pits. In the City Tatua, or thereabouts, are Mines of Gold, Silver, and several sorts of Stone Quarries. In Baro and Quitia, are also two Mines of Gold. The Kingdom of Inhambane is over against the Cape of Good Hope, the chief City of it is Tongue: The Portugueze can hardly dwell there because of the great heat. As to the Kingdom of Inhamier, it is also subject to Monomopotapa, and lyes near the River Cuama. The Kings residence is near the Village Sena, where many Portugueze have their abode for maintaining their trade.

The Empire of MONOEMƲGI, or Nimca-Maye. Imperium Monoemugium.

THe Empire of Monoemugi is on the South of Abyssinia, and the Great Macoco's Country; on the North of Monomotapa and Sofola; on the West of Mozambigue, and on the East of the Kingdom of Malemba, which is tributary to this Empire. The Extent of it from South to North is about 180 leagues from the 11 D. 15 min. to the 21 D. of Southern Latitude, and from West to East 240 leagues, from the 29 D. to the 62 D. of Longitude.

The Air is so unwholsome in most places of it, that the Emperors dare not travel through them; and because the Jagosites, which is the most cruel of all the Anthropo-phagi, beset the Roads, and have no respect of any person: These Barbarians are much like the people of Ansica.

The Country, which lyes between Ocango, and a great Lake, which some call Zaire, out of which arise several Rivers, and in which are many Islands, is very fruitful and pleasant; it hath abundance of good Fountains, several sorts of Birds, and Beasts of many kinds: Palms, of which they make Wine and Oyl, and such an abundance of Honey, that they can't spend a quarter of it. They have many Mines of Gold, Silver, Copper, and a great number of Elephants.

The Inhabitants are white, and of a great stature, they cloath themselves with Silk and Cotton, which they buy of foreign Merchants. They have Neck-laces of Grains of Amber, as transparent as Crystal. These grains are brought them from Cambaye, and they use them for Money, because Gold is so common that 'tis of little esteem.

These people are Idolaters at present, our Missionaries have as yet settled the Faith there but little.

The Country is subject to a Monarch which they call the Monoemugi, to whom several other petty Kings and Princes are subject, or pay him tribute. By the last Relations we have, we are informed that the Kings of Malemba, and some of the Guiaques, are under his Dominion. This Emperor endeavours much to live in peace with the Kings of Quiloa, Molinde, and Mombaze, that their Trade may thrive. The Kingdom of Secumbe, and Chicova, are included in his Kingdom, and pay him tribute.

Under the States of the Emperor of Monoemugi, are contained the Empire of Monoemugi, the Kingdoms of Secumbe, Chicova, Malemba, and part of the Guiaques, as in the Table with the chief Villages.

Monoemugi hath these parts:

• 1. Monoemugi propria,
  • ...Zembre.
  • ...Bagametre.
  • ...Bonda.
• 2. Secumbe, a Kingd.
  • ...Empago
  • .....
• 3. Chicova, a Kingd.
  • ...Chicova.
  • ...Zemba.
• 4. Malemba, a Kingd.
  • ...Malemba.
  • ...Depsen.
  • ...Meti.
• 5. Part of the Guiaques.

ZANGƲEBAR. Z•nguebaria.

THe Coast of Zanguebar reaches from the Aequator, to the 17 D. 30 min. of Southern Latitude, which contains 350 leagues, and the breadth of it from East to West, is about 160 leagues from the 61 D. to the 67 D. 40 min. of Longitude. This Country is bounded on the North, with the Coast of Ajan; on the West, with Abyssinia; on the South, with the Kingdom of Sofola; and on the East, with the Ocean, or Sea of Zanguebar.

The Air in general is unhealthful, especially in the Kingdom of Quiloa; the Land is low and marshy, it produces little Provision, but yields plenty of Gold, and Ivory; by the Trade of which the inhabitants are maintained. Nevertheless, they have Oranges, Citrons, Pulse, Rice, and Millet; they feed also Oxen, Goats, Mutton, and Horses, which are much esteem•d, especially those of Melinda: They have an abundance of Elephants, Venison, Wild-Fowl; several Mines of Gold, Silver, and other Metals.

The most remarkable Rivers are Quilmanci, which parts this Country from the Coasts of Ajan, Melinda, Mombaze, Quiloa, Gado, Mozambique, and Cuama, which parts Zangue•ar from Sofola.

The Inhabitants of it are more civil than the pe•ple of Gafrarie, because of the frequent concourse of Europeans thither. They are black, and naked as far as their Girdles. Their food is the flesh of Wild Beasts, Milk, Pulse, and Wild Fruits. The Natives are Idolaters, or Mahometans, following the Doctrine of one Zaid, the Nephew of Haly. There are s•me Christians who have settled themselves in some Forts built near the Sea by the Portugueze, which have made several petty Kings tributary to them, and which maintain a great Trade.

The Coasts of Zanguebar is divided into several Kingdoms, and s•me Isles adjoyning which depend on it, which are better distinguished in the following Table.

Za•gu•bar contains in it:

• The Isles of
  • Quirimba. Oibo, &c.
    • Mo•gallo, a Kingd.
      • ...Mongallo.
• Angos, or Angoche, a Kingd.
  • ...Angoche.
    • Mosambique, a Kingd.
      • ...Mosambique.
• Quiloa, a Kgd. Quiloa. Mombaze, a Kgd. Mombaze.
• Melinda, a Kgd. Melinda. Lamon, a Kgd. Lamon.
• Pata, a Kingd. Pata. Siam, a Kingd. Siam.
• Ampaza, a Kgd. Ampaza. Chelicieta, a Kgd. Chelecie.
• Pemba, a Kingdom, Pemba.

The more remarkable things of these places are, 1. That the Isles of Quirimba lye along this Coast, as far as Cape Del-Gado, for the space of 25 or 30 leagues. They are very fruitful in Plants, Grains, Fruits, Herbs, and Beasts. 2. The Kingdom of Mongallo is a small Principality, near the mouth of Cuamo, peopled by Arabians, Mahometans, who have a King of the same Religion: They Trade only in Gold. 3. The Kingdom of Angos stands upon a branch of Guama, some adjoyning Isles are subject to it. The King is a Mahometan, and his Subjects are partly Arabian Merchants; the other inhabitants are Negro's of a small Stature, and differing in Manners, and Language. 4. The Kingdom of Mosambique, lyes on the North of Angos, it commands 3 Islands, which are Mosambique, S. George, and S. James, which lye at the mouth of the River M•gincate. This Country is very fruitful in R•ce, Millet, Pulse, Oranges, and Citrons; they have many Elephants, Cattle, and Wild-Beasts, Venison, Wild Poultry; Mines of Gold, and Silver. The Inhabitants are Negro's and go naked: Some of them are Pagans, other Mahometans with their King, and others profess no Religion at all. 5. The Kingdom of Quiloa bears the name of an Isle, it lies in the 8 D. 50 min. of Southern Latitude. It is a very good Country, it bears several sorts of Grain, Fruits, and Maze, Rice, Oranges, Citrons, and Cattle. The King at present is Tributary to the Emperor of Monc•mugi; they are cloathed after the Arabian or Turkish manner: The greatest part of them are Zealous Mahometans, and the other Pagans. The Portugueze had taken this Country, but left it again because the Air was unwholsome. The King is a Mahometan, and resides in the Isle of Quiloa, the chief City of which of the same name, was taken by the Portugueze, and again forsaken, but the King still pays them yearly a tribute of 1500 marks of Gold. 6. The Kingdom of Mombaze, is between Quiloa on the South, and Melinda on the North. It is of a great extent: The King is very much feared by his Subjects: He thinks to make himself Lord of the whole World, notwithstanding which the Portugueze have defeated all their Armies, with a small body of Men. The Portugueze are Masters of the Isle of the same name, where the chief City of the Kingdom is called Mombaze. They have a Castle there which makes them Masters of all the Country. This King is a Mahometan, and a great Enemy of the Christians; his Subjects are all Mahometans, or Idolaters. 7. The Kingdom of Melinda is divided by the Aequator, and reaches from the Kingdom of Mombaze, as far as the River Quilmonci towards the North, and as far as Chelecie, and Abyssinia in the Continent, towards the West. Melinda is the Chief City, standing in a very pleasant Plain; it is well built, and encompassed with Gardens. The ground is very fruitful in all things. The Inhabitants are Negro's, Tawny, or White. They fight with a Bow, Arrows, Targets, and Darts. They are good Souldiers. Their Religion is partly Idolatry, Mahometanism, and Christianity. There are 17 Churches in Melinda, for the Catholick Portugueze. The King is very much reverenced by his Subjects, when he goes our, the chief Gentlemen carry him upon their Shoulders, and the Ladies sing his praises before him, carrying Vessels fuil of perfumes, and make a kind of harmony. He allows the same honors to be given to any great Lord, or Prince, which comes to see him. This Prince renders impartial Justice to all the World, without respect of Persons: He is a great friend to the Portugueze, with whom his Subjects have a great Trade. These Foriegners have built a Fortress near Melinda, which commands the Port. As to the other lesser Kings, viz. of Lamon, Siam, Pata, Ampaza, Chelicie, Pemba, and many other Islands upon those Coasts, they are Slaves or tributary to the Portugueze; who beheaded the King of Pata, and quartered the King of Chelicie, for some suspicion; but their too severe management, have made them to be driven out of several places. The Dutch know how to make use of them for their own advantage. These petty Princes are on the North or West of the Kingdom of Malinde; they are Mahometans, and subject to the Portugueze.

The Coasts of Ajan, and Abex.

THis Country is bounded on the South with the River Quilmanci, and the little Kingdoms we have spoken of, on the West by the Mountain, from whence Quilmanci comes; on the North with the Streight of Balilmandel, and the Gulph of Arabia; and on the East with the Ocean. This Coast contains the Commonwealth of Brava, the Kingdoms of Megadoxo, Adea, and Adel, and yields all necessaries for humane life, especially good Horses. The Inhabitants are white for the most part: Up the Country there are Negro's. They are all Mahometans, except the Bedwins, which are of the Sect of the Emofaids, who run up and down the Fields, live without Laws, and steal all they can light of. The Commonwealth of Brava lies between the two Arms of the River Quilmanca, and between Barraboa, and Megadoxo. The City of the same name is inhabited by very rich Merchants, which deal in Gold, Silver, and Silk: They pay the Portugueze 4000 livres of Gold for protecting them. The Chief Families of them are Mahometans, their Government is Aristocratical. Upon the Coast over against this City, they find a prodigious quantity of Amber-grease. The next is the Kingdom of Megadoxo, the chief City of which of the same name, is the place of resort for the Merchants of Cambay, and Aden. They change Stuffs, Drugs, and Spices, for Gold, Silver, Ivory, and Wax. The King is a Mahometan, and they speak Arabick altogether, altho some of his Subjects are Whites, Negro's, and others of an Olive-colour. They poison their Arrows when they go to War. This Country yields plenty of Fruits, Barley Cattle, and good Horses. The Kingdom of Adea is on the North of Megadoxo, on the East of Oyia, which is part of Abyssinia, on the South of Adel, and West of the Ocean. Barraboa is the most considerable City of it; it is upon the Sea-shore, whe•e also stands the City Quilmanca, which gives name to the River that runs by it, which is called higher Oby. The principality of Granzeo, is the lowest part of the Country towards the West, and upon the Confines of the Kingdoms of Oyia, Xoa, and Gorage; in which the King and all their Subjects are Mahometans, and tributary to the Abyssines, but Granzeo is peopled with Christians and Idolaters. The Inhabitants are rich in great Cattle. The Soil is fruitful in Fruits, Grains, Pastures, and Beasts. They have Cows as big as Camels without Horns, with lank Ears, and Hair as white as Snow. The Kingdom of Adel, or Zeila, is bounded on the North with the Government of Suaquen, and the Streight of Babel-mandel, on the West with the Kingdom of Fatagarni, Abyssinia, on the South with Adea, and on the East with the Ocean, which makes an Angle Northward and Eastward of that Kingdom, and unites again at the Cape of Guardafui; the largest extent of the Coast from the City Zeile to the Cape, is 120 leagues, and the shortest from the Cape, to the Confines of Adea, is 72. The Chief is Adel, where the King hath his Residence, in the 9 D. of Northern Latitude. It hath no high Mountains, and never rains, yet the Country is fruitful by reason of the Rivers. It produces great abundance of Bread-corn, Millet, Barley, Oyl, and Sesamum; they have white and black Sheep with great Tails, black Cows, with Horns like a Stag, as also red ones which have one Horn in their Fore-head, which bends upward towards their Backs. They Trade in Gold, Ivory, Incense, Pepper, and Slaves, of which the Country hath plenty. The King and his Subjects are Mahometans, and are often at War with the Abyssines. Nevertheless the Grand Seignior hath made himself master of the Cape of Guardafui, Barbameth, and almost all the Countries of Barnagas, and Barazan, which belong to the King of Adel, and of all the Cities and Ports in the Arabian Gulph, which belong to the Emperor of Abyssinia; so that it is very hard now to go into the Country of the great Negus, without passing thro the Turks Dominions. The Inhabitants are White, or Tawny, and some are black towards the North-west parts.

Modern Geographers are much divided about the bounds and extent of the Coasts of Abex. Some call them New Arabia, and comprehend in it a part of Aegypt, viz. part of the ancient Trogloditis. At this time it reaches from the Streights of Babelmandel, as far as the Mountains, which part it from Aegypt, so that it contains about 350 leagues of Coast upon the Red-Sea, and about 45 in the greatest breadth. 'Tis a Country all Desarts almost and barren, by reason of the great heat, and want of Water, yet the Air is very foggie, and unwholsome when the Sun is down. The greatest part of the Inhabitants are Turks, and Arabians. The North part is under the Government of the Grand Seignior, who keeps a Beglerbeg in the City of Suaquen, which stands upon the Red-Sea. The Southern part contains the Kingdom of Dancali, which is not so barren as the other. There are several very considerable Isles, which I shall speak of in the Chapter about the Isles of Africa; after I have given a Table of these two Coasts, as follows.

The two Coasts of

• 1. Ajan contains
  • The Commonwealth of Brava,
    • ...Brava.
  • The Kingdom of Megadoxo,
    • ...Megadoxo.
  • Kingdom of Adea,
    • Barraboa, Quilmanca, Corgabra, Barraboa, Zachet, The Monks Isle.
  • Kingdom of Adel,
    • Adel, Ara, Bali, Mautra, Doara, Comizara, Novocara, Socele, Asum or Afion, Salir, Zeila, Dalaca.
• 2. Abex contains
  • The Kingdom of Doncali towards the South,
    • ...Degibeldara.
    • ...Malaca.
    • ...Guardafui.
    • ...Vella.
    • ...Degibelcora.
  • Places under the Turk in the North,
    • ...Suaquen.
    • ...Ercocco.
    • Mazua, &c.