The generall historie of the magnificent state of Venice From the first foundation thereof vntill this present. Collected by Thomas de Fougasses, gentleman of Auignon, out of all authors, both ancient and moderne, that haue written of that subiect. Englished by VV. Shute. Gent.

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¶ MICHAELI STENO, the [ 20] 63. Duke of Uenice.

[ 30]

MIchaeli Steno Procurator of Saint Marke succeeded him, who be∣ing [ 40] chosen in the beginning of December, came not (by reason of a disease whereof he lay sicke) to the Pallace till the tenth of Ia∣nuarie.

The people did neuer doe the like honour to any of his predeces∣sors as to him. All the Trades of the Citie euerie one a-part, did prepare costly shewes for his sake, each of them inuenting new, so as no holy day passed in the whole yeare, but some shew or other was presented: And that whole yeare would haue beene spent in mirth and pastime, if the vnexpected losse of certaine Citizens had not marred the sport. Sixe gallies laden with forraine marchandize vnder the [ 50] conduct of Leonardo Trenisano returned to Venice about the end of Autumne, but it fell out, that neere to the Islands of the Egean sea, at Irene (called by corruption of language Turin) foure of them (which had seldome happened) being beaten with a tempest suffered ship wracke. Yet neuerthelesse few of the men perished the mar∣chandize

being scattered heere & there was with great labour recouered. The Viari, Delfino, Sourance, and Sagreda, were lost. Cornari and Gradonico resisting the seas furie earne safe to Venice.

The yeare following three Gallies departed from Venice: the Duke of Au∣stria had prepared two of them, and Prince Carrario the third, to fetch and conuoie from Apulia the sister of King Ladislaus, who being newly restored to his kingdome, was Crowned King by Barthimeo Iuliari, Cardinall of the Sea Apostolike, sent from Pope Boniface. This sister was promised to one of the Dukes of Austria. But these Gallies came back to Venice, by reason that Ladislaus refused to send his sister.

Some Annales make mention how that the Emperour Robert with his wife came [ 10] the same yeare to Venice, where he was magnificently entertained, and honoured with diuers rich presents. But those Authors whom we follow conceale the cause of his comming. I finde in some, that Robert being vanquished by Galeas in the Territorie of Cremona, hauing in a manner lost all his Armie, retired to Trente, where hauing leuied new forces, he came to Padua, and from the firme Land to Ve∣nice, where being curteously entertained, after he had familiarly discoursed with the Prince and Senate of the wrong which Galeas had done him, he returned into Ger∣manie: But because mention is made of his wiues being there with him: we must think that he left her at Venice, because himselfe went on pilgrimage to Rome. For it was the yeare of our Saluation one thousand foure hundred, at such time as Pope [ 20] Boniface the ninth celebrated the great yeare of Iubilie.

The same yeare the bridge of Rialto was reedified. In this manner did the Com∣mon-wealth peaceably flourish, and the greatest care of the inhabitants was set on trade of Marchandize. But this quiet was interrupted by the Genoueses new stirs. They had about the same time armed one and twentie Gallies, and sixteene great Argosies: Some Authours make no mention of Argosies. The report was, That this preparation was made against the King of Cyprus. Boucicault a Frenchman, was Generall of the Armie. The Genoueses had beene for a time, as they were then, vn∣der the French Kings protection, and the most part of their Gallies were manned [ 30] with French-men. The Fleet departing from Genoa, arriued after a tedious course, at Scandelora a Sea-Towne of Cilicia. (those who are most expert in Nauigation, af∣firme this place from the firme Land to be opposite to Cyprus) The Genoueses re∣ceiued there so great a losse, as of all the Gallie-slaues in one and twentie Gallies, there were not so manie left as would furnish eleuen. Departing thence, they sailed into Syria, where surprizing Barut, they ransackt & spoiled as enemies all the Veneti∣an ships, and others, who by chance were then in the Hauen. From Syria they sai∣led into More•…•….

Carolo Zeni whome the Senate, at the first report of the Genoueses preparations, had sent with eleuen Gallies into the Adriatick Gulph, hauing at Sea narrowly pur∣sued the Genoueses Fleete, had speciall care that they should not attempt on any place belonging to the Venetians: (for their Armie spoiled all places where they [ 40] came) and yet he would not fight with them because they were not proclaimed e∣nemies. In this sort both of them dissembling, the Venetians kept the Genoueses in aw, and the Genoueses the Venetians. But both of them staying neere to Modon, they made shew of other matters than they had done at the beginning. Zeni fea∣ring least by his patience the Venetians affaires might incurre some great danger, did on a sodaine set forward towards the Genoueses Fleete, who vnder colour of taking in fresh water, lay betwixt Modon and Ijonches. At Carolo his vnlookt-for arriuall, there was a sharp-fight, and the Venetians fortune was so much the worse, because the Genoa Gallies were better manned than theirs.

It is reported that euerie Gallie had besides the ordinarie banke of Rowers, fortie [ 50] men at Armes, and all French-men, who fought furiously with the Lance & sword, after the manner of their Countrie. And the Venetians did but in a manner beare off the blowes, at such time as Hermolao the Lombard returning from a long voiage,

came thither opportunely with two Gallies. He perceiuing the danger wherein the Venetians were, did with great furie turne the prowes of his Gallies vpon the ene∣mie who was busied in fight, and strooke one of their Gallies with such force, as he ouerturned it into the Sea with the Souldiers and Marriners. At Hermolao his arri∣uall fortune sodainly changed.

For the enemie who had alreadie in a manner wonne the victorie, for the losse of one Gallie began to faint: The Venetian on the contrarie being strengthened by these two Gallies, did valiantly renew the fight. Their fortune hung for foure houres space in equall ballance: at the last three of the enemies Gallies being sunke, and as manie taken, the residue which were fiue, betooke themselues to flight. More than [ 10] fiue hundred of the enemies were slain and drowned, and more than eight hundred were taken prisoners. The Venetians for their part, obtained not this victorie with∣out bloud▪ shed, who found an hundred and three and fortie of their men to be wan∣ting.

It is said, that, after the victorie, certaine Captaines of the Gallies were disgraced and noted of cowardize for comming too slowly on the enemie at the beginning of the fight, & because by their basenesse they had endaungered the state of the Com∣mon-wealth. Others, among whom was Gyles the Black, were honored with great rewards, because they had brauely borne themselues in that conflict. The fiue Ge∣noueses Gallies which fled from the fight, encountring with a Venetian Gallie loden [ 20] with victualls they easilie tooke it▪ after that, they tooke an Argosie, wherein were diuers Venetian Gentlemen. Much more harme besides they did to the Venetians; but because after this defeate, they knew no safe place of retreate: they returned ve∣rie disconsolate to Genoa.

Within few daies after, a French-man, of the number of those who were taken prisoners in the fight, being wearied with imprisonment, said in choller, That he hoped one daie to wash his hands in the bloud of the Venetians. This cruell pre∣sage being reported to the Senate, did so highly offend euerie mans eares, as they all with one voice commanded that hee should bee hanged betwixt the two Co∣lumnes. [ 30]

In this mean space Nouello Carrario commanded in Padua, where he was some few yeares before replanted by the Venetians. This vnthankfull man did hate the Ve∣netians more than euer his Father had done. He practized day & night against them & their state; he dreamed on nothing else, & all his attempts tended to that purpose. The Venetians, hauing knowledge of a long time how he stood affected to them, had I know not by what meanes, discouered all his practises, & vnderstood by the French prisoners, that he had been•…•… the cause of the setting forth of the last Genoa Fleete that was defeated. They knew likewise by letters found in the coffers of Galeas Vis∣conte lately deceased, the traps which those Tyrants had laied for them. And be∣sides all this, after Galeas his decease, hee had earnestly solicited William of Escalla, [ 40] who had beene created a Gentleman of Venice, and dwelt at the same time there, to recouer the Principallitie of Verona: whom after the recouerie thereof, he per∣fidiously poisoned: notwithstanding that before he had sworne and protested all loue and friendship to him, and releeued him with Armes and Councell. After which hauing surprised Antonio, and Brunora of Escalla his children, he caused them to be murthered. The race of Escalla being thus extinct: Francisco caused his son Giacomo, or according to some, his brother, to enter Verona, the Ensignes of the Em∣pire and his owne being displaied before him, and created him Prince of the Citie: Yet not being satisfied with so great a Principalitie, he besieged Vincenza, hauing first spoiled the Vincenzans Territorie.

The Vincenzans detesting the name of Carrario, resolued to endure all extremi∣tie, [ 50] rather than to submit themselues to their Tyrannie. They speedily sent to Ka∣therina, widdow to deceased Galeas (for Carrario already made hauock of their coun∣trie, to get that by force which he could not obtain by right) and intreated her to as∣sist

them against the violence of the Carrarians, giuing her to vnderstand their great danger, vnlesse they were speedily relieued: alleaging for instance, That on the one side they had Padua for neighbour, where the Tyrants made their retreate; and Verona on the other which they had lately seized on, hauing vilely murthered their hosts; and that being enuironed and shut in on euerie side, they were openly pursu∣ed as enemies, because they would not open their gates to the Tyrants▪ and that the Vincenzans knew not of whom or from whence to expect reliefe, but from thence where the power of Galeas had beene in force and Authoritie. Earnestly therefore they entreated her presently to send them aide, or if she had not the meanes so to do, yet to send them word in what manner shee would will or commaund the Vincen∣zans [ 10] to prouide for their safetie. This did the Commissioners deliuer vnto her. But she being a woman, and troubled with the death of her husband, and busied else∣where in greater affaires: (For Carolo sonne to Bernabo after Galeas death began to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and diuers pettie Princes of Italie had seized on the Cities which belonged to her husbands Dukedome, so as she had busines enough to keepe Milan) for resolu∣tion in these difficulties assembled her Councell: by whom it was concluded, That, in regard they being so streightly pressed, could not continue in her obedience, it was much better for Verona, Vincenza, Feltre, Belluna, Collogna, and Bassan with their dependances to be giuen to the Venetians, than to leaue them for a prey to those wicked Tyrants. [ 20]

The Venetians, albeit they had already refused the offer which the Vincenzans had made to them of their Citie, not that they did it to gratifie Carrario, or were vn∣willing to helpe their poore afflicted friendes, but only for that they were ashamed to possesse the goods of an other man without iust cause: so soon as they perceiued the offer to be made, contrarie to their expectation, by the true Lord (albeit they knew that great warre would follow with Nouello) they would not loose so faire an occasion. Therefore they courteously entertained the Vincenzans Commissioners (the chief of whom was Giacomo Thyeni, sent with the Cities keies) & willed them (af∣ter they had receiued their oathes of fidelitie) to be of good cheere, & not to doubt but that they would deale in such sort, as if this Paduan, who filled all places with [ 30] tumult and menaces did not desist from molesting them, they would shortly set him such taske-worke, as he should no more trouble his neighbours, nor any else. Besides, seeing that the Vincenzans had esteemed from the beginning nothing to be more profitable for their Citie, than to be vnder the protection of the Veneti∣ans, they would take order that so loiall a Citie should neuer repent her loue and af∣fection towards them. Heereupon they willed them then to depart, and to carrie home with them the ensignes of Saint Marke, (whom they besought to be fauou∣rable to them both) and to erect them in the publicke places of their Citie, assuring them that the Prince and Senate would take order for the rest.

In this manner were the Commissioners sent home. Giacomo Suriano followed [ 40] them soone after with a good troupe of Archers for the Cities guard. They sent likewise to Carrario to signifie vnto him in the name of the Common-wealth that he should abstaine from further molesting the Vincenzans, because they were become subiect to the Venetians. But al this aduertisement notwithstanding so farre off was he from giuing ouer his enterprise, as on the contrarie, in contempt of them, and against the law of Nations, he caused the Ambassadours Nose and Eares to be cut off, and willed him besides, to tell the Venetians, that it was too saucily done of them to prescribe lawes vnto those, who were commanders in possession: That they should doe well to containe themselues within their small inclosure of the Sea, and leaue Cities to those who from their Ancestours had receiued the power to gouern. [ 50]

The Senate being mooued by the Tyrants arrogant answere, would (before they proclaimed open warre) contract alliance with Francisco Gonzaga. In the mean time, the Feltrians, the Bellunois, and Bassans, following the Vincenzans example, voluntarily submitted themselues to the Venetians. Colognia gaue occasion of a

great battaile. The Paduan euerie where opposing himselfe against the Venetians attempts, did greatly molest them. The Senate on a sodaine caused great forces to be leuied, and gaue the charge of them to Carolo Malatesie of Arimini, who was sent from Flaminio for that purpose. The Armie was reported to be of thirtie thou∣sand as well horse as foot.

Howbeit Carolo staied longer than was expected, yet being come to Venice he was entertained with great ioye, and receiued the publicke Ensignes in St. Markes Church. Then marching towards the enemie he came to Mestra, which was the Rendes-uous of all the Venetian troupes, and diuers great personages were in that Armie who receiued good pay of the Venetians. The Generall at his arriuall made [ 10] certaine attempts vpon the enemie, but of no great moment, and therefore not worthie of memorie. But in the hottest of the warre he gaue ouer his place. Those Authors whome we haue read giue no reason why he did so.

Whilest these things were done on the firme Land, the nauall armie had no bet∣ter successe on the Lakes. Marco Grimani Generall of the Fleet which the Senate had sent forth against the Tyrant, hauing remained for a time on the Lakes neere to the enemies, and caused a great number of light boates to come thither, did vio∣lently force certaine of the Garrisons: but being assailed on a sodaine by the Padu∣an, neere to the Church of Saint Hilarie, he was defeated, hauing lost the greatest part of his vessels, which the enemies drew on shoare with hookes of Iron; and him∣selfe [ 20] being taken prisoner was committed to the keeping of the Sacceans.

Malateste his dismission being knowne at Venice, they beganne carefully to con∣sider, whom they should appoint for their Generall. At the last among so many▪ noble persons as were then in great number in the Armie, Paulo Sabello a Roman Gentleman for his valour and great experience was alone thought worthie of that place. By his conduct diuers places were in short space taken from the enemie, and the Venetians beganne to haue better successe vnder this new General. But the Ty∣rants arrogancie did no whit diminish: whereby they knew of a certaine that he was to be dealt with in more places than one. And therfore they leuied new forces, and a new Campe as great as the former, which should spoile and ouer-runne the terri∣torie [ 30] of Verona. They made Francisco Gonzaga, their associate in this warre, Gene∣rall of that new Armie. He comming sodainely on the Veronois, did spoile all pla∣ces, and brought away with him a great bootie, as well of prisoners, as of Cattle; he burnt the Farmes and Countrie houses; he tooke certaine strong places, and a∣mong the rest Hostilio; and in a word, he left the enemie in a manner nothing. Car∣rario being then assailed in two seuerall places, that great vsuall heat of his beganne by litle and litle to coole. For he could not intend both places together, nor were his forces sufficient being diuided into two, to resist the enemies attempts. His af∣faires therefore were of necessitie to goe backeward in both places, or at the least in one of them. [ 40]

In the meane time Prince Albert of Aeste being mooued with compassion of his friend and allie, proclaimed warre on the Venetians, who were readie enough to accept it. He first sent aid to the confederates, and after draue the Venetians foorth of the Pollesin. Some Authors say that it was Nicholao sonne to Albert, which made warr on the Venetians, to whom Carrario had giuen his daughter Liliola to wife. But whether it were he, or the other (according to the Venetian Annals) who at the same time relieued the Carrarians; the Venetians being displeased thereat did re∣peale Accio D'Aeste from Candie, whither they had in time before confined him in fauour of Albert, and hauing giuen him forces, they caused him to warre on the ter∣ritorie of Ferrara. [ 50]

This Accio was before that time a deadly enemie to Albert, and had without doubt driuen him from his estate, if the Venetians, the Florentines, and those of Bolognia, had not ouerthrown him in the height of his good fortune, and confined him farre from Italie. There was then some likelihood that so soone as this man

should assaile the Ferrarois in his Countrie, that he would either greatly molest him, or enforce him to laie aside his Armes against the Venetians: Therefore they ar∣med certaine Gallies, and gaue them to Giouanni Barba, who at the mouth of Po sai∣led vp the Riuer, where he did greatly affright those of Ferrara. In the meane time diuers and sundrie skirmishes were made on the Riuer and else-where. And the Ci∣tie of Ferrara being thus hardly pressed by water and land, Albert, to quench this great domisticke flame, inclined to peace, the which he obtained of the Venetians on these conditions: That no more salt should be made at Comaccia: and that hee should sweare besides to continue euer a friend to the Venetians.

These things were done neere to Ferrara, but on the Paduan territorie they fought [ 10] fiercely. The Venetian had fortified his Campe at Nogara: Then the Generall be∣ing gone from thence with part of his troupes, came and encamped at Bassanelto. Those Authors whom we follow expresse not on what occasion he did so. The sonne of Francisco Carrario, surnamed Tertius, a valorous young man, being sent by his father with a choise troupe of horse, came and assailed the Campe. The Vene∣tians at the first were so affrighted, as the enemie came euen to the Generalls Tent, and trode the Venetian Ensignes which where there erected vnder his feet, before any man made resistance. Sabello in this amazement with much adoe recalled his Souldiours: and by earnest intreating now one and then another he restrained their shamefull flight, sharpely reprehending their feare. Then he commanded them to [ 20] turne their faces towards the enemie; and as he exhorted them hee marched fore∣most. But so soone as the enemie perceiued the Venetians in armes, and furiously bent to begin the fight, & fearing if he should ioyne with them he should be enfor∣ced to bring all his forces to the battaile, turning his backe, he retired on a gallop towards his Ensiignes, who alreadie by their Captaines command had begunne the retreat. The Venetians not being able to cause the enemie to stay suffered him to depart with certaine of their Ensignes which at his arriuall hee had taken from them.

Some say that they fought at Mansana, and that the Venetians lost six hun∣dred horse; but they altogether conceale the losse of their Ensignes. This victo∣rious [ 30] young man returning to the Citie as it were triumphing, presented the peo∣ple with a ioyfull shewe. It is reported that afterwards diuers and sundrie exploits were executed, and that diuers Townes were taken from the enemies, as well of the Paduan as the Verona territorie. Whilest these things were attempted, Paulo Sabello dyed. His bodie being brought to Venice, was in great solemnitie accompanied by the whole Clergie, the Prince, and Senate, to the Church of the Friers Minors. His Image is to be seene on horse-backe before the high Altar. Galeas Grumello of Mantua was by the Senates decree subrogated in his place. Others say that Gonzaga brother to Prince Francisco, succeeded him; and not Grumello.

This man beganne his charge with as great care and diligence as could be desired [ 40] in a great Captaine. In the meane time Giacomo Suriano, who lay in Vincenza, be∣cause there was no doubt to be made of the Vincenzans loialtie & affection towards the Venetians, resolued by the permission of the Prince and Senate, to goe with a companie of men at armes to the Venetians Campe on the territorie of Verona. The enemie lying in ambush came forth and assailed this troupe of men at armes at Soaua, and easily defeated them, and being thus broken, they tooke Suriano with diuers others, prisoners. The Veronois being wearied with so long and tedious a siege, were alreadie determined to yeeld. For they likewise did detest the Carrarians. Giacomo Carrario commanded in the Citie, who (as we said in the beginning) was [ 50] giuen to the Veronois for their Lord and Prince. Hee of himselfe perceiuing all things to be doubtfull, and imagining that he should bee safer abroad than in the Citie being out of hope to keepe it, attempted secretly to flie thence. He came first to Hostilio; and from thence crossing the Po, he was taken on the Riuers bancks and brought to Venice. But I know not what should mooue him to goe to Hosti∣lio,

seeing it was at the same time vnder the power of Francisco Gonzaga, vnlesse it were so that he came thither in disguise, thinking to deceiue the enemie in that ha∣bite, till such time as he had crossed the riuer. Some say that he was surprized at A∣sellario a village of the Veronois. But be it that he were taken there or elsewhere, it is certaine that he did not depart from the Citie before such time as he knew that the inhabitants intended to yeeld.

Those of Verona being reduced to the Venetians obedience, all the Castles neere to the Citie did the like. The yeelding of so mightie a Citie gaue the Vene∣tians great hope of executing higher enterprizes. And this victorie was as much and more pleasing to the Senate, than any other which they had obtained for a long [ 10] time before, and not without cause. For Verona (to speake somewhat thereof) is among all other Cities of Lombardie, the most famous, as well for the reputation, as the situation thereof. It is thought that the Gaules were the first founders of it, because the notablest Cities of Lombardie were built by them. And likewise because Trogus Pompeius referreth her original and foundation to those Gaules which came with Brennus into Italie. But whosoeuer the first founders were, I doe thinke them to haue beene famous men, because they vndertooke so great & admirable a peece of worke, and likewise that they were wise and discreet persons, and not blind like those founders of Calcidonia, whom in times past Apollo's Oracle thoght to be so▪

For besides that the territorie neere to the Citie is most fruitfull in corne, oyle, [ 20] wine▪ and cattaile, and that it hath goodly stone quarries, riuers, lakes, and pondes, among which is that of Benac, the pleas•…•…ntest of those of all Italie, streames of wa∣ter both holesome and profitable; the which I dare affirme to haue in times past serued for bathes▪ by reason that they are hot, and because at this day the ruines of the walles are to be seene, which doe verifie the opinion which the common people hold thereof. VVhat shall we speake of her situation and structure? There is no∣thing to be seene more faire and pleasant. Neuer could any Painter how excellent soeuer he were, represent a place of more delectable recreation▪ For the whole Citie almost being seated in a plaine countrey, looking towards the South, East, & West, it hath a little hill on the North side, the top whereof by a short and pleasant circuit [ 30] doth in a manner represent the forme of a Theater: The bottome betwixt them both is filled with vine-yards and goodly gardens, so delightfull to those who behold them a farre off, as their spirits (as it hath hapned to some) surprized with a sodaine and vnlooked-for ioy, are instantly (as it were) depriued of all sense. On the top of the hill two goodly Fortes are to be seene, the one of which doth in a man∣ner hang ouer the riuer Ladissa, which with her pleasant streames watereth a great goodly bottome, the other seated in a higher place, and almost ouer the valley, loo∣keth on the Citie walles which are below, and extendeth her view on euerie side o∣uer all the plaines watered with the Po, and in a manner ouer all Lombardie. There [ 40] are to be seene besides, diuers goodly bridges richly builded ouer the riuer; an Am∣phitheater in the midst of the City, with diuers old triumphant Arches, with a thou∣sand other antiquities, which declare how notable the greatnesse of this Citie hath beene in former times. That which we haue hitherto said is verie great, but that which followeth is much more admirable.

This Citie hath had from the beginning a certaine Seminarie of excellent men, and as famous in all sciences, as any other Citie whatsoeuer. All these things be∣ing knowne, to the Venetians, did make their victorie more notable.

They forthwith manned it with a strong Garrison, and sent P•…•…etro Arimondo thi∣ther for Gouernour, and Rubro Marini for chiefe Iustice. VVhilest these things were done at Verona, Gonzaga hauing spoiled all the Paduan territorie, and taken diuers [ 50] townes, came and besieged Padua. There is a place without Holy Crosse gate, cal∣led Terra Negra, or the blacke land, in which place the Venetian was incamped, and held the Citie s•…•…teightly besieged, keeping the Paduans in continuall alarme. The Carrarians in the meane time (perceiuing their affaires to bee in great danger) did

brauely defend the Citie walles, opposing themselues euerie where against the Ve∣netians attempts; they ceased neither day nor night from labour▪ they fortified their Citie, placed the guardes, and encouraged the townsmen, and did at times sal∣lie forth vpon the enemie as occasion serued: Borh sides had labour and care suf∣ficient.

But whilest Padua was thus besieged and defended. Massolerio the Venetian was suspected secretly to haue shot arrowes into the Citie with letters tied to their heads, wherupon being imprisoned he was sent to Venice, where being conuicted of the crime he was hanged from the highest place of the Palace with a long rope. The same day his brother and two young Priests, were put aliue into the ground betwixt [ 10] the two Columnes their heads downewards: The which punishment being not as yet vsuall, did greatly terrifie all men. The common report was, That they had de∣termined in the night to set the Citie on fire in diuers places, and that they had di∣uers complices, some of whom were found within a while after dead in sacks on the shore, not being knowne who they were, Giouanni of Padua likewise who had great pay in the Venetian Armie, being accused to haue had secret confe∣rence with the enemie, was sent to Venice, and there hanged betwixt the two Columnes.

These executions did greatly trouble the tyrant, for besides that he perceiued all meanes to be cut off from him of discouering any thing in the Armie, he was cer∣taine [ 20] that the shamefull death of a noble person did serue for an example to others how to cast themselues headlong into apparent dangers. Now therefore to disco∣uer his enemies designes, he tried another way. For pretending as if he ment to har∣ken vnto peace, he craued a safe conduct saying that he would confer with Gonzaga, and treat with him of peace before all men. A pasport being sent him, he came to the Campe, where these conditions (as it is reported) were propounded to him. That he should leaue Padua to the Venetians, and that he with his children should goe and dwell an hundred miles from thence: That the Venetians would deliuer vnto him Giacomo his sonne, and would permit him to carrie away all his treasure, appar∣rell, and other rich moueables that he had, and that they would ouer and aboue giue [ 30] him for a present the summe of threescore thousand crownes. The enemie con∣temning these conditions, returned to the Citie without effecting any thing, resol∣uing rather to hazard all than to accept of so base a peace.

The Venetians then perceiuing that the tyrant had lost that haughtie and proud spirit which he was wont to haue, did presse the Citie more furiously than before. And at the last, hauing about midnight reared ladders to the wall, diuers went vp v∣pon them: where those of the guard being heauie with sleepe all were murdred with out noise at the gate of holy Crosse, whither all the troupes speedily ranne, & forth∣with entred the Citie. Padua is circled with a triple wal, the vttermost wherof being lost by the enemie, he kept himself within the other two. But his forces being alrea∣die [ 40] broken, and being hopelesse of better fortune, hee sent to entreate Gonzaga to take him into his protection; that he would cast himselfe betwixt his armes, with his children and all his meanes; requesting that hee might come safely to him to parley and compound with him about his yeelding. But Gonzaga by the coun∣sell of his friends sent him word that he should doe better to haue recourse to the Prince and Senate, and that with teares casting himselfe at their feete, he should per∣haps obtaine of them more than he hoped for. He then craued assurance that hee might safely goe to Venice, but he was answered that the Senate would send Com∣missioners to Mestra, who should heare him. Both sides being come neere to Me∣stra, the matter was a long time debated without any conclusion at all, whereupon [ 50] they departed thence without doing any thing, and the tyrant returned being con∣ducted by Gonzaga into the Citie: where being arriued without tidings of peace, he was so bad•…•…y welcomed by the inhabitants, as diuers were so bold to tell him; That the Paduans were no more resolued to liue as they had done. They willed him then

to depart thence, & (if he did mean to looke well to himselfe) to embrace such peace as the victorious Venetian would offer; and not such as he desired. That the wret∣ched inhabitants had rill then endured too much by their Princes arrogancie; that the enemie was alreadie within their walls: and therefore nothing else to be expe∣cted, but that the Souldiers hauing forced the inner Rampire, would come & spoile the Citie; which God rather than any mans valour had til then safely preserued: And that it was madnesse, rather than wilfullnesse, not to yeeld, when men could not helpe it.

The Tyrant being daunted with these ignominious, speeches, sent again to Gon∣zaga, and with teares entreated him to take pittie on the affliction of his familie, and [ 10] to procure so far as he might with honor, that his own and his childreus liues might be saued: Then at the Citizens request, they without any further fight entred the Citie on the 22. of Nouember. Padua being recouered, Nouello with Francisco sur∣named Tertius and William, his children (for Hubertino, and Marsilio, before the Citie was yeelded, were fled into Tuscan) were brought to Venice. The Senate caused them to be carried into the Island opposite to the Hall where they vsed to meet, and placed diuers smal boats for the guard thereof for feare least they should escape. Za∣charia Treuisano was the fiest gouernour that was sent to Padua after it was taken, & Marini Caraualla was Iudge: who did forthwith fortifie the Citie with a strong ram∣pire, and a good Garrison: Then they did put diuers forth of the towne whom they [ 20] knew to affect the Carrarians, bannishing them into sundrie places, and by that meanes did carefully prouide for whatsoeuer they knew necessarie to keep so excel∣lent a Citie vnder their obedience.

The Tyrant and his children being by night transported into seuerall prisons (to the end that the people should not see them, who for the great hatred which they had a long time borne them would haue torne them in pieces) were by the Senates commandement strangled. The Father was buried in S. Stephens Church, and the children in S. Georges monasterie. Such an end had the Carrariaus, who not long before did fill all places with feare and menaces: and who not being satisfied with commanding so excellent a Citie, did rashly prouoke those by whose meanes their [ 30] predecessours had acquired the name of Princes. But diuers did iudge that the cruel tyrannie of Francisco deserued such an end.

The report was that he kept dogs of a meruailous bignesse, vnto whom he gaue the wretched inhabitants to be deuored. There is to be seene at this day in the great Hall where the councell of the Tenne do assemble, two Scorpions, with verie sharp stings, who did sting such strangers, as he called thither to talke with him. I conceale his impudent and vnnaturall conditions, wherewith he was infected, as vnworthie to be mentioned.

By this so triumphant a victorie the Venetians purchased Vincenza, Verona, Co∣lognia, Feltra, Belluna, and the last of all, Padua with her confines. The expence of this warre which lasted two yeares, was so great, as two millions of gold of the pub∣like [ 40] Treasure were spent in it: And yet neuerthelesse this excessiue cost was verie pleasing in regard of the proffit and renowned victorie which ensued it.

At the same time as the warre was ended, whilst the whole Citie was busied eue∣ry night in making of bonfiers, and other signes of ioy for the good newes which daily arriued from al parts, the top of the Tower, which is neere to S. Markes church was burned; but it was forthwith reedified, and guilded with fine gold. That side likewise of the Palace which looketh towards the South, and had been a long time before begunne, was then ended. All things being quiet, fortie Gentlemen of Ve∣rona, clothed in white, came well accompanied to Venice. And their comming be∣ing [ 50] expected, because the people should receiue the greater content thereby, the Senate commanded a Theater to be set vp richly furnished neere to Saint Markes Church: whereupon the Pri•…•…ce with his familie clothed in white, did stand, all his Ensignes being for that day white. He was attended on by all the Magistrates of the

Citie, and honoured likewise with the companie of the greatest part of the Senate.

The Veronois being come to the Theater, went vp in order, where after they had saluted the Prince and Senate, they laied downe their publicke Ensignes, and the keies of their Citie-gates at their feete,

entreating them to accept thereof, and beseeching God, that the offer might be both to the Venetians and themselues as fortunate and profitable, as that was an assured and perpetuall pledge of their fideli∣tie, as well publicke as particular, towards the Venetians; requesting them of their accustomed goodnesse to continue in the defence, preseruation, and maintenance of them, their Citizens, their meanes, fortunes, with all other Diuine and humane matters: And as for their vnfeigned loue towards them, they durst freely say and [ 10] affirme, that they would be extreamely sorry, if among so manie people as did obey them, any should goe before them in loue, dutie, and affection.

The Ambassadours being curteously entertained, receiued great thankes:

And they were assured, that so long as they did continue such as they had promised, the Senate would ere long let them know, that the greatest happinesse which can befall those which haue not meanes to maintaine and defend themselues, is to be shrow∣ded vnder a lawfull gouernment; and that they would finde it to be as pleasing in that they had recourse to the only Fort of libertie, hauing cast off a Tyrants yoake, as doth that man which hath escaped out of a terrible tempest, when he entreth in∣to a safe Harbor: They might then depart when they pleased, and take with them [ 20] the Venetians Ensignes, (and in so saying, the Prince gaue them to the chiefe Am∣bassador) and erect them in the middest of their Citie, which he wished might proue to the Venetians and them, alwaies profitable and honourable: and being so erected, to hold them in reuerence: Then he willed them to execute justice and equitie, in regard they had in times past obaied the vniust com∣mandes of Tyrants.

In this sort the Ambassadours of Verona were dismis∣sed. [ 30] Those of Padua following their example, came soone after to Venice. They were entertained as the former, and the only difference was, that in sted of white, the Paduans were clothed in purple. [ 40]

Notes

• Diuers publik•…•… shewes made in the Citie for loue to the Duke.
• Foure Venetian Gallies lost by tempest.
• Ladislaus crow∣ned king of Hun∣garie.
• Ladislaus defea∣ted by Galeas Uiscont.
• Boucicault a French-man Generall of the Genoa Armie.
• The Genoueses great losse.
• A new Geno•…•… Fleete.
• Both the Fleetes dissemble.
• The two Armies fight.
• The Venetians in danger, before the comming of Hermolao.
• The Geno•…•…eses Fleet•…•… defeated.
• Gyles the Black greatly honoured
• A French man punished for in∣discrecte spea∣king.
• The hatred which Nouello did beare to the Venetians.
• Perfidious tre∣cherie.
• Verona possessed by the Carrari∣ans.
• The Carrarians make incursions on the Vincen∣zans.
• The Vincenzans aduertisement to Galeas his wid∣dow.
• The resolution of the Councellors of the widdow of Galeas.
• The venetian: entertaine the vincenzans commissioners▪
• A venetian gar∣rison sent to vin∣cenza.
• Carrario wron∣geth the veneti∣an Ambassador▪
• The venetians allie themselues with Goazaga.
• Carolo Malateste of Arimini Gene rall of the vene∣tians land Army.
• Malates•…•…e giues ouer the Gene∣rals place.
• The Venetians nauall Armie defeated.
• Paulo Sabello a Roman, General of the venetians Armie.
• Francisco Gon∣zaga Generall of another Armie of the venetians.
• Albert of Aeste maketh warre on the ven•…•…tians in the behalfe of Carrario.
• Accio of Aeste is repealed from Ca•…•…die to make warre on Albert.
• The conditions of peace made with Albert of Aeste▪
• The venetians are afrighted at the arriuall of young Carra∣rio. Sabello ende•…•…ou∣reth to stay his a∣mazed Soul∣diours.
• The enemies re∣treate.
• The death of Paulo Sabello.
• Galeas Grumel∣lo of Mantua subrogated in the place of Sabello.
• Certaine vene∣tian troupes de∣feated. i
• Giacomo Carra∣rio departing from verona is taken in flight▪
• Verona in the venetians power.
• In what esteeme the Citie of ve∣rona is.
• The goodly situa∣tion of verona.
• Bathes in time past at verona.
• Two forts at ve∣rona.
• An Amphithea∣ter in verona.
• Gonzaga besie∣geth Padua.
• Massolerio the venetian being accused and conuicted of trea son is punished.
• Acruell and vnusuall punish∣ment.
• Giouanni of Pa∣uia is punished for hauing secret conference with the enemie.
• Conditions of peace propoun∣ded to the Pa∣duan
• The venetians enter Padua in the night by Scalado. Padua circled with a triple wall.
• The Paduan s•…•…∣cth to Gonzaga.
• Gonzaga h•…•…s an∣swere to the Pa∣duan.
• The poore enter∣tainment which the Paduas gaue to Carrario re∣turning without peace.
• Padua being ta∣ken, the tyrant with three of his children are brought to Ve∣nice. Officers sent by the Senate to Padua.
• The Prisoners by the Senates com∣mandment are strangled.
• Francisco Car∣rario his great •…•…rueltie.
• Now much mony was spent in the warre with the Carrarians.
• Fortie Gentle∣men of Verona come to Venite in Ambassade. The entertaine∣ment giuen to the Gentlemen of Uerona.
• The Ambassa∣dors speech.
• The answer•…•… which was made them.
• The Paduans come in the s•…•…me manner to Ue∣nice.