OCTOBER 4.
633. Edwin (the Great), king of Britain, killed at Hatfield. He wielded the sovereignty 17 years, during which the cumulus of heathenism began to break up in large masses.
1226. Francis, of Assisi, died; founder of the order of Franciscans, or gray friars.
1253. Robert Grosseteste, an English prelate, died. He wrote several voluminous works, possessed great learning, and a clear and vigorous intellect.
1434. Cosmo de Medici reentered Florence from exile, and was received with the most extravagant demonstrations of public joy, and became, in fact, the prince of the state, accumulated enormous wealth, and lived in regal magnificence.
1489. John Wesselius, a Dutch ecclesiastic, died. His learning and abilities were so great, that the pope sent for him to Rome, and offered him what he should ask for. He merely requested a Greek and Hebrew Bible in the Vatican.
1535. Was published the first edition of the Whole Bible in the English language, being the translation of Miles Coverdale.
1590. James Cujacius, an eminent French lawyer, died. He rose from obscurity, and by his indefatigable industry, without the assistance of a master, perfected himself in Greek and Latin literature, and particularly in civil law. His works were published at Paris, in 10 vols. folio.
1595. John Maitland, lord Thirlstane, an eminent statesman under James VI of Scotland, died.
1609. Henry Hudson, having explored the river to where it divided itself into several branches, returned to its mouth on this day—put to sea with all sails set, to report the tidings of his valuable discovery.