Lotophagitis

LOTOPHAGITIS, now called Zerby, and by some Gerbe, is situate in the bottom of the Bay of Tripolis, divided from the main Land by a narrow Ford. The Iland full of Bogs and Marishes, without other water, and in the midst of it somewhat hilly; indifferently fruitfull, yielding, Dates, Olives, Barley, Mill, and the like commodities; inhabited by 30000 men, dwelling in low Cottages, and but simply apparelled. It had in it anciently two Cities, 1 Meninx, which sometimes gave name unto the Iland, called Meninx by some elder Writers. 2 Gerrapolis, both now destroyed: instead whereof there is now one of more note then the rest, called by the same name with the Iland, and fortified with a very strong Castle. Subject unto the Turks, but governed by a poor King of its own. Both Fort and Iland taken by the Christian Fleet, in the year 1559. for the King of Spain, to whom Caravanus the King thereof did submit himself, conditioning to pay the yeerly Tribute of 6000. Crowns, one Camel, four Ostriches, four Sparrow Hawks, and four Falcons. But the Christians were scarce warm in their new possession, when besieged in the Castle by Pial Bassa, to whom after some extremities they were fain to yield: there perishing in this unfortunate Action, by sword, famine, and sickness, 15000 Christians.