I have been the more punctual in relating this Story, because, on this occasion, I understood from Rustan's own Mouth, what Opinion the Sultan had of the Janizaries: For he, hearing of this Scuffle, sent a Messenger to me, to desire me to cut off all occasion of Dispute with the Janizaries as the worst of Men. You know, said he, 'tis a time of War, whereby they may be said to reign, rather than the Sultan, who himself stands in fear of them. This he spake, as being well acquainted with the Sentiments of Solyman, who always suspected some Men of their own to lie in wait against their Militia, who would break out when he had no Opportunity to prevent them.
And the Truth is, though there may be some use of a standing Guard and Militia, yet there are also many Inconveniences attending it, of which this is the chief. Their Emperor is very fearful of them, lest, having the Sword in their Hands, they should alter the Government as they pleas'd, of which there had been many Precedents; yet, there are ways also, whereby this may be prevented.
While I was in their Camp, there came Albertus de Ubiis, a worthy and learned Person, born I think at Amsterdam, as an Envoy from my Master Cæsar. He brought with him some Presents for their Sultan, as some Goblets gilt with Gold, with a Clock neatly made, and carried like a Tower on an Elephant's Back; as also some Money to be distributed, amongst the Bashaws. Solyman would have me deliver these Presents in the Camp, that the Amity betwixt Him and my Master might be more publickly known, and so no Danger at all to be feared from the Christian Arms.
