(Marcus Hieronymus), bishop of Alva, in Mountferrat, and one of the most excellent Latin poets that have appeared since the Augustan age, was born at Cremona in 1520. Having distinguished himself by his learning and taste for literature, he was made bishop of Al- va in 1552. After continuing two years with pope Cle- ment VII. at Rome, he went to reside upon his see; where, for 30 years, he performed all the offices of a good bishop and a good man; and though he was mild, gentle, and full of goodness, he was so far from wanting spirit, that when the city of Alva was besieged by the French, he used all pos- sible means to prevent its being given up, by strenuously ex- horting the people, and, when provisions were scarce, by supplying them at his own expense. His poetical works, and poem on the silk-worm, pass for his masterpiece; his poem on the game of chess is also greatly admired. He also wrote hymns, elegies, and a poem entitled Chriftados in six books; all which are in Latin, and have gained him a great reputation. His works in prose consist of dialogues, synodal constitutions, letters, and other pieces. He died in 1566, soon after his being made bishop of Cre- mona.