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.

The Contents of the fourth Booke of the [ 10] fifth Decade.

THe Impositions and taxes laied vpon the people during the warre, are in time of peace reuoked. The vniuersity [ 20] of Padua, re-established. The Senate send two Ambas∣sadors to Selim Emperor of Turkes. The great victo∣ries obtained by Selim. He granteth the Venetians de∣mands. The Venetians send an Ambassade to Charles King of Spaine concerning trafficke. Truce prolonged betwixt the Emperour Maximillian and the Venetians, The Emperonr Max∣imillians death. The French and Spanish Kings aspire to the Empire. [ 30] Charles King of Spaine is chosen Emperour. Soliman, by the death of Selim, his father, obteineth the Empire of the Turkes. Lewis King of Hungary hath recourse to the Princes of Christendome. The Venetians in league with Soli∣man. The French King distrusteth the new chosen Emperor. The Emperor elect seeketh the friendship of the Venetians. The comming of Soliman into the Realme of Hungary enforceth King Lewis to implore the Venetians aide, who lend him thirty thousand Ducats. The Turke taketh Belgrade, the chiefe City of Hungary. The King of England is chosen vmpire and mediator for the strife betwixt the Emperour and the French King. The French King & [ 40] the King of England talke together. Why the league that was determined be∣twixt the Pope, the French King, and the Venetians, was not concluded and signed. A secret agreement made betwixt the Pope and the Emperour. The Imperialls practizes on the Dutchy of Milan. The Pope inuenteth matter of discontent, that hee might leaue the French King. The secret intelligences that the Pope and Emperour had with the Bandetti of Milan. The Venetians refuse to giue passage to the Emperours army thorow their territory. In what manner the Venetians did releeue the State of Mi∣lan. [ 50] Parma beseeged by the Imperialls, and sodainely recouered by the Lord of Lautrec. The army of the league passeth the Adda, and commeth to Milan.

The Swisses forsake the French for want of pay. Prospero by the aduertice∣ment of a Traytor marcheth directly to Milan. The suburbs of Milan and the Roman gate taken by the league. The Lord of Lautrec with his Cauallery re∣tireth to Coma. Milan is taken and sackt. The Imperialls take Coma, with diuers other townes. The sodaine death of Pope Leo. Lastly the resolu∣tion and preparations of the Lord of Lautrec and the Venetians to beseege Milan. [ 10]

The Fourth Booke of the fifth Decade of the [ 20] Historie of Uenice.

ARmes being laid a side by the meanes aboue said betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians, the Republike was three yeares at peace, which began at the entring of the yeare, 1517. Wherevpon all the citties of the firme land, which were by the last agreement reduced vnder the Venetians gouernment, sent their deputies to Venice to reioyce [ 30] with the Senate, for that to their honor, armes being laid downe, they had recouered al their state, and to offer like∣wise all their meanes and forces to the common-wealth.

The Senates cheefe care was to discharge the citty of Venice and all other townes and Villages of the firme land from diuers taxes and impositions laid vpon them during the warre, by reason of the small meanes of the publike treasury: to the end that particular men, encreasing their meanes by peace, if afterward any need should be, they might bee more ready to releeue the publike with their wealth. It was decreed like-wise that all those who serued the common wealth in any place whatsoeuer, should euer after bee wholy paid their [ 40] wages, which had not bin done during the warre. In a word they omitted nothing which they knew to bee commodious or honorable for the Signory.

They did like-wise re-establish the Vniuersity of Padua, which had beene vnfre∣quented for the space of eight yeares. Then because they would no more fall in∣to those inconueniences, as they had done for want of prouiding fortifications ne∣cessary for their Citties, they began to fortifie them, and cheefely the two famous citties, Padua and Verona, the two cheefest of their state on the firme land: and for that purpose Andre Gritte, and George Cornare were appointed, who going to those places should resolue by the aduice and councell of Triuulcio, and the other experienced Captaines of the Venetian army, on that which was to be done, By which meanes, diuers places being ruined in time of warre, were by them re-established, and many others newly built.

But because the friendship of the Ottomans was very necessary for them, as well [ 50] for the conseruation of peace, as for the citties trafficke, they decreed to send two Ambassadors to Selim Emperor of Turkes: Lodouico Monce•…•…igo, and Bartholomeo

Contaren were chosen for that purpose to goe and congratulate him in the name of the Republike, for all the goodly victories that hee had obtayned. For Selim in an incounter hauing vanquished his brother Achomat, and put him publikely to death, did like-wise ouer-come the Adulians, who are a very valiant people of the mountaines: then going into Persia against the Sophi, hee defeated him in set battaille, and tooke the citty of Tauris, the cheefe seate of that Empire, with the greatest part of Persia, the which he was enforced to abandon, for want of victu∣allls, because that yeare had beene very scarce. Returning aftetwards to Constan∣tinople, hauing refreshed and re-enforced his army, hee turned his forces vpon the Soldan of Suria and Aegypt, who was a Prince alwaies highly esteemed by [ 10] those of that Religion, and like-wise very potent, as well for the extent of his do∣minions, as for the eperience and military discipline of the Mamalukes, for by their armes they had possessed the same Empire, with great reputatiō for the space of 300. yeares. Selim then being come with his army against this kinde of people, defeated them soundry times in field, so as the Soldan was slaine, and an other Sol∣dan his successor was taken in battaill, whome ignominiously he put to death o∣penly: hee made beside, a great slaughter of those Mamaluks, and thereby in a manner did wholy root out their name: hee tooke Cairo, which is a populous citty, and the Soldans ordinary residence, and in a short-time seased on all Suria [ 20] and Aegypt. Al these great victories and encreases of his Empire, had not without cause giuen occasion to all Christian Princes to stand in awe of him, and cheefe∣l•…•… the Venetians, of whome hee pretended to demand a yeerely tribute, of 8000. Ducats, which the Kings of Cyprus were wont to pay to the Soldans of Aegipt in times before. Now the Venetian Ambassadors being embarked at Venice, did first touch at Cyprus, and from thence they went to Damasco, where Selim returning from his victories had wintered with al his army. The Senate had expresly enioy∣ned them to procure, that the Venetian marchants who dwelt at Tripoli, Alexan∣dria, Barath, Damasco, and other marchant places of those Prouinces, might be maintayned there in the selfe same priuiledges, which they were wont to enioy in [ 30] former times, graunted vnto them by the former Kings of Suria and Aegypt: That it might like-wise bee lawfull for the Signory, to haue their Magistrates in those places with the same authority they were wont to haue, to doe iustice to their Cittizens in their strife about marchandize, and other such like businesse. Selim ayming at other ends did easily graunt it, as wel for the desire he had to entertaine the Venetians friendship, as to restore trafick to his new conquered Prouinces, whereby great profit and commodity might redound to him. At the same time for the same purpose an Ambassador was appointed to goe to Charles King of Spaine, to the end that it might be lawfull for the Venetians to traffick thorow all the lands and signories newly fallen to him, as they were wont to doe in the life [ 40] time of King Fernand in Spaine, because that his officers did seeme to make some difficulty in it, in regard of the trade with Africke, whereof it shall not not be im∣pertinent to say some thing by the way. The antient founders of the citty had spe∣ciall care, that the cittizens of their new citty should exercize them-selues in voy∣ages and sea-traffick, to bee able by their vertuous industry to encrease their do∣mesticke meanes and faculties, and make themselues knowne to forraine nations. The situation of their citty inuited them there-vnto because the Inhabitants had not they any inheritāces wheron to busie themselues. Whervpon they decreed di∣uers ships should traficke into sondry places of Christendome, and of the Infidells, in which they sent diuers gentlemen, to learne them nauigation, and other matters belonging to the sea: some of whome remained for a time among those forraine [ 50] nations, and cheefely wher there was greatest trading, negotiating for themselues and others, whereby, besides the greate wealth which they purchased, they made themselues fit by experience for great maters, so as returning afterwards to Venice they readyly executed all matters, committed to them.

Now the places whether these vessels, (which were commonly called shippes of traffick) vsed to goe at their departure from Venice, was first into Sicily to the Citty of Saragossa, from thence to Tripoli in Barbary, and hauing coasted the Iland of Gerbes, they passed on to Tunis: from thence they directed their course to the realme of Tremisen, staying cheefely at Tusen and at Mega, two excellent Marchant townes, called at this day Ona and Orana. Then they went to diuers places of the Kingdome of Marocco, and touching at all the hauens of Barbery, which were antiently comprized vnder the Prouinces of Mauritania and Numi∣dia, they sailed into Spaine.

But their traffick was very different, for at their departure from Venice, they [ 10] carried to the Affrican Moores sondry kindes of mettalls, and woollen cloathes which they sould there: then comming into Spaine they bought sondry kinds of merchandize as silk, wool, graine, and other things which they found in the con∣trey, with which being laden they returned to Venice. This traffick then being interrupted by the difficulties which the agents of the new King of Spaine did set abroach, and by reason of other accidents that did happen is wholly lost.

But to returne to our discourse, the Venetians perceiuing that a great part of the time of truce betwixt the Emperour and them was spent, they thought it ne∣cessary to come to some new agreement with him; the which the Pope desired, [ 20] and that it might be by his meanes at Rome. But the Venetians trusting more to the most Christian King, referred the whole matter to him, and made means that the Emperour should to that end send his Ambassadors into France, who comming thither, and concluding no peace the truce by the Kings meanes was prolonged betwixt them for fiue yeares, on condition that for euery of the fiue yeares they should pay twenty thousand crownes to the Emperour. The occasi∣on of this truce, was, because that the Pope being mooued by the Turkes fortu∣nate successe, beganne to thinke on other milder matters; he sent Breefs to all Christian Princes putting them in mind of the danger which threatened them, requesting them that all discords and contentions being layd aside, they would [ 30] speedily prouide for the defence of Christian religion, and for their common safety, the which was exposed to very great dangers, vnlesse that they being vni∣ted together did transport the warre into Turky, in regard of the encrease of Selims Empire, and his great desire of rule and soueraignty, which would pro∣uoke him at last to oppresse all other Princes, as he had done by the Souldan of Egipt and the Mamalucks.

These things being by the Pope represented to the Venetians as well as to o∣ther Christian Princes, were cause that the Venetians consented to the truce (as hath beene said) made by the French King betwixt the Emperour and them, see∣ing that peace could be hardly concluded on: to the end they would not seeme [ 40] by their refusall to turne away so great a good from all Christendome. But as for the popes proposition, made particularly vnto them to take Armes against Selim, they answered that when they should see matters set foreward, and ernest∣ly pursued, the Venetian Senate would be more ready for that enterprize then a∣ny else, and would neuer faile of their duty, knowing very well how much it did import them, not only in regard of the common interest of all Christendome, and for the Popes entreaties and exhortation, as because their Sea-state did bor∣der vpon that mighty enemy, the which he would in a moment assaile, and mo∣lest with all outrages, before the Confederates Army would be ready to enter into his Contrey. [ 50]

Soone after this treaty of truce the Emperour Maximilian fell sick and dyed at Lynx in the be•…•…inning of the yeare. 1519. which is a towne seated on the mar∣ches of Austria, his death being knowne to the soldiers that lay in Garrison at Gradisca and Maran, they sallied foorth vppon the lands belonging to the

Common-wealth, robbing and spoyling the Venetians subiects, executing diuers other hostile actions. The Senate wrote to the Lieutenants of the Empire, say∣ing That for their partes they would keepe, and obserue the truce, and not make any innouation because of the Emperors death: but that they like-wise should doe well, to containe, their soldiers in peaceable manner, and keepe them from making any more incursions vpon their Territories: The Lieutenants thinking this to bee iust and resonable, the truce was inuiolably obserued euery where.

In the meane time, preparation was made for the election of a new Emperor: The French King and the King of Spaine, two great and excellent Princes, began openly to aspire therevnto: And albeit the practize was of great importance be∣twixt [ 10] two such mighty Princes, yet neuer▪the-lesse they handled the matter on both sides very modestly, without any iniurious speeches or warlik menaces, each of them seeking by his owne authority, and meanes, to draw the Electors on his side: But the Italians did stand in awe of either of their powers, fearing that which of them two should attaine that dignity, would by the aide of the Almains en∣uade all Italy, and ioyne it to the Empire, as it had beene in times before: so that either of their elections could not but bee very much distastfull, and greeuous to the Italians: and yet for al that they inclined more to the French King, then to the Catholik Maiesty, for diuers causes, and cheefely because the French, as a stranger should not beare such authority in Germany as the King of Spaine, who was [ 20] descended from thence, and by that meanes might turne them at his pleasure: So as the Pope and the Venetians did rather fauour the French Kings party then the Spaniards, and the French sending his Ambassador for the same pur∣pose to Rome and Venice, they were honorably entertayned, and freely audienced.

Now besides these Ambassadors the French King sent the Lord of Teligni to Venice, as well for this purpose as for diuers and sundry other negotiations, and among others to entreate them to lend him some good store of mony, to supply his great expence hee was to make, if hee should bee chosen Emperor, and also that they would send forces into Germanie, to assist the Electors, to the end [ 30] they might not be enforced in their election, and to aske them what they would haue him to doe if Charles should enter with an army into Italy, to enforce the Pope to free him from the oath made to Pope Iulius the second, concerning the inuestiture of the Realme of Naples.

The Senate made answer to the Ambassadors demands, That in regard of their great obligation to the French King, albeit their treasour was much ex∣hausted by the late warres, they would neuer-the-lesse striue to ayde him with an hundred thousand Ducats: But for to send forces into Germany, it would smalely avayle the King, and greatly hurt them, Besides, the Almains would neuer suffer their soldiers to passe, the passages being very streight and wel garded. [ 40] As for Charles his passage, if without being prouoked there vnto he would enter armed into Italy against the most Holy Father of Rome, that the Venetians would no lesse shew them-selues defenders, and protectors of the liberty and dig∣nity Ecclesiasticall, then their Ancestors had done, preferring the greatnesse ther∣of before that of the Empire.

During these treaties of King Francis by his Ambassadors, Charles King of Spaine, being more apt to leuy solders with mony, then to giue it to the Electors, sent an army into the field, vnder collour of keeping the election from beeing forced, the which drawing neere to Franckfort, did encourrage those Electors that fauored his cause, and made those which wandred to encline to him, so as [ 50] Charles of Austria, King of Spaine, was chosen Emperor the eight and twentith day of Iune, which was at the very selfe same time that Soliman the sonne of Selim did peaceably obtaine, without any contradiction, the O•…•…taman Empire by

the death of his father Selim: There was but one onely Captaine named Agaz∣zell Gouernor of Suria, that did oppose it and make him-selfe maister of the Pro∣uinces of his gouernment, who taking armes for that purpose, his rebellion was soone appeased, and all the other Prouinces reduced vnder Solymans obedience, remained peaceable.

He was noted to be of a haughty courage, and fit for high enterprizes, and a great enemy to Christendome: yet notwithstanding Christian Princes, not con∣sidering the perills and dangers which followed them at the heeles, suffered this young Prince, their naturall enemy, to grow great, whilst they had time to abate his power, by busying him in the defence of his owne lands and Seignories, and [ 10] meanes to keepe him from enuading those of their neighbors.

Lewis King of Hungary alone, leuied soldiers, and made great preparations of warre, imploying all mens ayde and succor, as one that feared this barbarous enemy, by reason that Solyman would not renew the truce which this King had made with his father Selim, wherevpon he sent his Ambassadors to the Christian Princes, and cheefely to Rome and Venice, entreating, exhorting, and admo∣nishing them of other mens ruine and losse by the example of his owne neere at hand.

The Venetians answered him that the power and greatnesse of the Ottomans [ 20] was so mightely encreased, as all Princes and Potentates stood in awe thereof, and cheefely themselues, by reason their State was to neere a neighbor to them: that they had neuer refused such offers, but that they on the contrary had solici∣ted other Princes, to oppose themselues against the mightinesse of their Empire, which they saw did daily encrease: but that they of them-selues alone and with their owne forces could doe no great matter. Not long after, they sent Marco Minio their Ambassador to Constantinople, who with their vsuall presents was to procure the articles of peace to be confirmed in the same manner as some few yeares before Antonio Instiniano had done with Selim, and with the same autho∣rity, immunity and franchize. [ 30]

Soliman shewed himselfe very ready to graunt their demands, as beeing desirous of their frendship and aliance, and for a demonstration of his good will towards them, at the same time as Minio departed from Venice, Acmat Ferrat set fore∣ward from the Port of the great Turke towards Venice, to giue them notice from him of his succession in the Orientall Empires, and to renew their alliance begun with his father Selim. Besides he was desirous, (for that the Venetians trafficke into his Contries might be more free and safe,) with his owne forces to chase the Pirats that scoured the Leuant Seas, entreating the Venetians for their part to doe the like, to the end the nauigation might be assured.

This renewing of their league with the Turke, did greatly proffit them, in re∣gard their state in Italy was not very firme, and by reason that the alarmes and [ 40] suspitions which they had conceiued at the beginning of the yeare, because it was reported that the Turke armed, was by that meanes cleered: so as one part of the nauall Army that they had prepared vpon that rumor, sailed into Barbary a∣gainst the Pirats, of whom, many being taken, the passages were freed from dan∣ger. In this manner did the Venetians temporise with the Turke, vsing all means to keepe his friendship, despayring of being able to hurt him, so long as the Christian Princes carelesse of the common danger, were at strife among them∣selues.

Now the most Christian King being som-what troubled with this election, and fearing least Charles of Austria, would turne his deseignes vpon Italy to expulse [ 50] him from the state of Milan, acquainted the Pope and the Venetians with the great danger that threatned them if they suffred the elected Emperor to passe with an army into Italy, and therefore he councelled them to enter into a threefold

league together, against those that would attempt to inuade any of their states, and specially to oppose themselues against the Emperors passage comming in armes to goe to Rome (as he said) to receiue the Imperiall Crowne, because he could not enter in that manner but to the great danger of all those who possessed any states in Italy-

The Venetians soone consented to the French Kings proposition for the safety of their states. But the Pope being resolued what to doe, and ruminating sundry matters fed the King and the Venetians with faire hope: but when it came to the conclusion, he would not consent to haue any thing set downe in writing, saying, That in such a case the onely words of Princes did suffice, with their true mea∣ning [ 10] to execute what had beene concluded. In this manner the businesse being delayed, the French Kings hea•…•…e in time beganne to coole.

The Venetians had some suspition, that the King did seacretly treat with the Emperor, and that the same might bee the canse why the Pope doutbed, and pro∣longed the affaires that were concluded on. And that which did increase their suspition, was, for that they had certaine notice, that Artur Gouffiar Lord of Boys∣sy, great maister of France, and the Lord de Cheures, met at Montpellier; the one from the elect Emperor, and the other from the King, to consult of a finall peace betwixt both their Maiesties, and to decide all controuersies betwixt them and their allies. The Venetians neuer-the-lesse still continuing their former resoluti∣on [ 20] and firme desire, not to separate them-selues in any sort from the alliance of the French, made no shew that they suspected the King, (albeit his Maiesty was sufficiently aduertised of their suspition;) but held it for certaine, that if the King were desirous of agreement with the Emperor, they especially should be named and comprised therin, and all their contention with the Emperor should be who∣ly composed. Charles so soone as hee was chosen Emperor hauing turned his de∣seignes vpon Italy, knowing how much it did import him to haue the Venetians friendship, did shew him-selfe desirous to compose all the differences, which had beene betwixt the Emperor Maximilian his predecessor and them: and to ef∣fect [ 30] this good desire, hee sent his commissioners to Verona, according as it was concluded in Maximillians life time, with ample power and authority, to con∣clude and decide, not onely the businesse of the truce for fiue yeares, but like-wise to end all other matters, which were yet vndecided two yeares before betwixt them. Francisco P•…•…sare a long time before chosen by the Senate, for that purpose went to Verona, whither for the Emperors part came foure of the cheefe of the councell of Inspruch, who had ample power to negociate that busin•…•…sse. Iohn Pin, the French Ambassador, came thither in his Kings name, who at the last truce was chosen Vmpier and Iudge of all their controuersies.

The Venetians craued possession of all the places taken from them in the last [ 40] warre, and that all thing should remaine as they were before the warre, say∣ing, That it was the surest meanes to end all their controuersies, and to establish a firme and assured peace. But the Imperialls alleadging now one thing, and then an other, did still d•…•…lay the businesse, and would conclude on nothing, so as ha∣uing spent certaine monthes there in vaine, and being recalled by the councel of In spruch, they returned home.

Yet neuerthelesse the Venetians hauing at the same time their Ambassadours in the Emperours Court, they were put in hope of a prosperous end of that bu∣sinesse, and that the Emperour would speedily appoint Commissioners to in∣tend it, beeing very desirous by meanes of a sure peace to become their good neighbour and perpetuall friend, his officers thereby shewing how much hee de∣sired the Venetians friendship, who for their partes did in like manner declare, how they desired nothing more then peace: but that they could not (their faith kept inuiolate) doe any thing contrary to their alliance with the French King.

After this manner did these two Princes at one time pursue the Venetians friendship and alliance, but by different waies, each of them seeking to make vse of them in their enterprize of Italy: so as in these practizes and negotiations all that yeare passed on without any certaine resolution. The yeare following which was 1520. Italy did still continue peaceable, but Christendome was threatened by Soliman, who perceauing his Empire to be at quiet, and all things to fall out as hee wished, would not bee idle, but following rather the generousnesse of his Ancestors, hee determined to take armes, and to warre vpon the Christians.

This was a long time before foreseene of many, but remedied by none. Fol∣lowing then this determination hee resolued to enuade the realme of Hungary; [ 10] hoping to reape great glory thereby, by reason that the Hungarians were repu∣ted valliant and great soldiers. Therefore so soone as all things were ready hee departed from Constantinople, about the beginning of the yeare 1521. with a mighty army, and marched into Hungary.

King Lewes being amazed at the comming of so mighty an army, and distrust∣ing his owne forces, did againe send new Ambassadors, to solicite and entreate Christian Princes to aid him, it being the common cause of all Christendome, Philippo Moro Bishop of Agria was sent to the Venetians, who being brought into the Senate, spake in this manner.

My King, (most excellent Prince, and yee most noble Lords) hath such confidence in yourselues, in your fidelity, cur∣tezie, [ 20] and power, in respect of the strict alliance which of a long time hath beene betwixt this Republike, and the crowne of Hungary, of the Common interest of both your states, of the iustice of his cause, and your owne antient custome, with that of your ancestors, who euer fauored iust and resonable actions, and releeued those that stood in need, as hee is desirous in this eminent perill of the Turkish warre, cheefely to haue recourse vnto you, my Lords, and vnto you to communicate his deseins and necessity, hoping to finde from you, not one∣ly a speedy ayde, as much as in you lieth for the defence of his Kingdome, but like-wise all fauour and furtherance to forraine Princes, thereby the more easily to obtaine of them some succor and releefe. It seemeth indeed, and not [ 30] without cause, that the first addresse belongeth to this Republike, when any question is of opposing the Ottamans greatnesse, because that as well in regard of your power at sea, as for your neere neighbour-hood to them, yee haue excellent meanes to molest that enemy, and to hinder him from growing great at other mens costs. Therefore, my Lords, yee shall purchase great glory, and shall establish a greater safety, to your state, if yee will be Authors to moue other Princes to protect and defend the realme of Hungary, against this new furious enemy to Christians. Consider, my Lords, to what greatnesse the •…•…ttaman family hath in short space attayned, and wholy (if I may so say) by the carelesenesse of Christian Princes, that haue not opposed them-selues a∣gainst [ 40] it. Hee marcheth forward with a swift pace to a soueraigne Monarchy: If the cries, prayers and protestations of Constantine, had beene heard, when the warlike and cruell Mahomet did assaile Constantinople the Greekes Empire should not now bee ruyned, not that of the Mamalukes bee wholy extinct. For both the one and other gaue such counterpoyse to the Turkish forces, as if they now weare in force, they might with ease assure▪ not onely the King∣dome of Hungary, but like-wise all the residue of Christendome. Who-so∣euer shall consider the progression of the antient Monarchies, will find that their difficulty was not great to attayne to a soueraigne degree, when there was none of power sufficient to oppose their greatnesse, and to counter∣poise [ 50] their pride, whereby the conquests which after-wards ensued proued very easie. The Romaines spent much time in subduing Italy, but beeing once Maisters thereof, and by that meanes most mighty, they in few yeares subiected vnder their power and dominion many forraine Kings and Prouinces.

Therefore it is certaine that by how much we shall delay to cut off the greatnesse of this cruel enemy, by so much more wil dangers encrease, and remedies become more difficult. I will not say that to take armes for the defence of the Kingdome of Hungary, is a matter onely honorable for Christian Princes, as well in res∣pect of the duty of their religion, as for their profession, nor also that it is profita∣ble for them, for any particular interest, but I will say, that of a certaine it is most necessary for the conseruation of their states. For that Kingdome being lost, which hath already of a long time opposed it selfe against the Turkes attempts, and hath interrupted the course of their victories: who is it that is able to hin∣der him, from entring into Austria, from molesting Germany, and from ma∣king [ 10] incursions on the very confines of your state? This same Kingdome, which still hath beene the Bullwarke to stoppe his progressions, being ruined, (which God forbid) and taken by the enemy, who doubteth but that it wilbee very commodious for him, to subdue other nations, to enuade other King∣domes, and generally to execute all his enterprizes? But as this defense is sayd to bee necessary, wee must not like-wise iudge it impossible, and least of all dif∣ficult, prouided that Princes will no more want will and desire, then they doe meanes and power. Our Hungarian nation hath beene war-like, and our Kings haue purchaced great glory by warre. Our King at this day, my Lords, and his subiects, doe not degenerate from their Ancestors, they want not [ 20] courrage nor ought else that men are to haue for their defence. But what can one Kingdome alone doe aga•…•…st such numbers of enemies, gathered to ge∣ther out of so many Prouinces? against the war-like preparation of the richest and mightiest enemy in the world? And yet, this our Kingdome is not very great or rich, to furnish store of soldiers, armor, mony, munition and so many other necessaries for any long continuance against such war-like enter∣prizes: but if it bee aided by other Princes, her forces will not onely encrease, but like-wise her reputation and valour, so as wee doe not doubt but to make all the enemies attempts, and designes vnproffitable: and if occasion serue, wee will not refuse to fight wi•…•…h him in the field, to assure for a long time, at [ 30] our owne perills, and by the hazard of our owne fortune (if God doe fauour, as wee are to hope, our holy and valorous •…•…enterprizes) with our owne coun∣try, other Kingdomes and Prouinces of Christendome. But I see that perhaps I haue passed my bounds by my long oration. The summe of all is, Our King∣dome is the Bulwarke and defense of all Christendome against the fury of the Turkish armes: now the common defence ought to bee mannaged by com∣mon forces, your wisdome and piety makes yee to fore-see and esteeme of dan∣gers, and your authority and power giues yee meanes of speedy remedy.

The Ambassador was heard with great attention, and as they were before al∣ready well disposed to this businesse, hee like-wise left a very great impression in [ 40] their mindes. Therefore they concluded to solicite other Christian Princes, by their Ambassadors that were resident with them, to the end that they might with a mutuall consent releeue the Realme of Hungary, and prouide for future dangers: where-vnto they freely offered all the meanes of the Common-wealth. But this negotiation had no better issue then the former: where-vpon, daun∣gers dayly encreasing, and King Lewis supposing that to free Belgrade from the seege, which was a very strong Citty, and of great impotance, and which had euer beene the Rampier of the whole Kingdome, that hee must fight with the Turke, did after that send Iohn Statilius his Ambassador to Venice, to obtaine of the Senate certaine summes of mony, thereby to encrease his forces, to the end [ 50] that being strengthened with meanes hee might at tempt, on hope of happy suc∣cesse, the hazard of a battaill.

The Republike had often in times past ayded with mony, and other meanes the Kings of Hungary against the power of the Turkes, but it thought it selfe at

that time more bound then euer before to doe it, as well in respect of the strict ali∣ance and friendship with King Lewis, as for their feare of the Ottaman greatnesse, who dayly grew more potent and redoubted, by reason wherof the Venetians sent the King thirty thousand Ducats, with promise of greater offers, and for a testi∣mony of their friendship to King Lewis, they sent word to Lorenzo Doria, their Ambassador resident with his Maiesty, that he should ordinarily folow the Kings army.

But the Kings deseigns and enterprises had a disastrous successe, for Belgrade was lost, all the other Citties of the Kingdome continuing still fearefull of the force and violence of the Turkes, who after the taking of this towne, returned to [ 10] Constantinople, hauing left his Artillery and munition in Hungary, intending to returne thither againe at the spring, as him-selfe aduertized the Senate of Venice by one of his seruants, acquainting them with what hee had done in Hungary.

About the same time, Prince Loretan deceased, to the great greefe of the whole Citty, who with singular wisdome had fortunately gouerned the Repub∣like the space of twenty yeares, hauing still retayned to the very last gaspe his vsuall quicknesse of wit, where-with hee was adorned, hee was buried in the Church of the Twi•…•…s. [ 20]

[illustration]

ANTONIO GRIMANI the 76. Duke.

[ 30]

[ 40]

[ 50]

ANtonio Grimani, Father to Cardinall Dominico, was chosen in his sted, a man very famous, as well for his great wealth, as for the noble offices which hee had borne in the Com∣mon-wealth, hauing often times tasted prosperous and ad∣uerse fortune, and who not long before was called home from a tedious banishment to which hee was condemned, because hee being Generall of the Galleis had let slippe the occasion of fighting with and vanquishing the Tur∣kish army neere to Lepanto. [ 10]

He then entring into the gouernment of the Common wealth, found it in peace (as hath beene said) but in so many different rumors of discontent betwixt Prin∣ces, as it was to be feared that the Republick would therby be drawne into new troubles, and into a necessity of taking armes, because that the Emperour, (who being already come into Germany, had receiued his first Imperiall Coronation at Aix La Chappelle) had a great desire to come into Italy, in regard whereof, he sought by al good offices and faire promises to draw the Venetians to his side, thinking that their frendship might much auaile him for the execution of his de∣seignes: wherevpon, among other matters he promised to giue them in authenti∣call manner the inuestiture of all the Citties and places which they then possessed [ 20] to which the Empire might pretend any title or claime.

These offers were the cause that the Senate delayed to send (according to their vsuall manner) to congratulate the Emperor for his new dignity: For hauing de∣termined to send Francesco Contaren to succeed Gasparo Contaren their ordinary Ambassador resident with his Imperiall Maiesty, whose time of stay there, apoin∣ted by the Lawes, was already expired, they did put off his dispatch from day to day because they would giue the French noe occasion to suspect that they in∣tended to enter into any league or treaty with the new Emperor.

Charles by this meanes beeing out of hope to draw the Venetians from the [ 30] friendship of the French, changed his purpose, and resolued to send Philliberto his Ambassador to the French King, as well for that he would haue men thinke that he was desirous to treat with him about the affaires of Italy, without mentio∣ning the Venetians, as for to induce them to haue recourse to himselfe, for feare of some agreement betwixt their two Maiesties, wherein they should not be com∣prehended, they hauing already made proofe of very many mischeefes which the alliance of such like Princes had procured to their common wealth: he did beside write to his Ambassador, resident with the King of England, to complaine vnto that King, (whose authority at that time was so great, as he was chosen for Vm∣pier and mediator of al the important strife betwixt the Emperor and the French King) of the Venetians, who not beeing contented to accomplish the agreement [ 40] betwixt Maximilian and them, did moreouer refuse his alliance and frendship (being therevnto inuited) but there was no great regard giuen to his complaints, because that the Emperor making shew to be desirous of Peace, intelligence was giuen, that he prepared all things fit for warre. These pollicies being knowne to King Francis, after that he had freely communicated to the Senate all the Em∣perors practises and deseignes, would not giue eare to the offers of his Ambassa∣dor, and standing vpon his gard, he sought by all meanes to entertaine his frends and Confederates, and to that purpose he had mutuall conference with the King of England neere to Ardres in Picardy, who for that end came to Calais, that he might more amply confirme the peace and frendship sworne betwixt them, [ 50] where hauing seene one another and conferred together with their Councells of their perticular affaires, with all manner of sports and delightes in the middest of the plaine betwixt Guynes and Ardres, the French King returned to Boloign and the King of England to Calais.

About this time, a daughter being borne to the French King, he entreated the Republick of Venice to witnesse for it at the Font, shewing therby that he was desi•…•…ous in all thinges to gi•…•…e them content, in regard of his speciall loue tow•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉 [ 10]

〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉 [ 20]

Vpon these new propositions of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and the French King, the Vene•…•… likewise were desirous to looke to themselues, and they grew •…•…ore 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the conclusion of the league, no•…•… breaking the fiue yea•…•… tr•…•…ce alre•…•…dy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by the Elect Emperor, nor would they likewise displease the King of England, who [ 30] by sondry good offices had shewed hims•…•…lfe their great friend, whom they knew would be •…•…ighly displeased with that league, in regard of the alliance and frend∣ship betwixt him and the Emperor.

Whilst th•…•… vpon these occasions •…•…he treaty of the league remained doubtfull▪ they had intelligence of that which they neuer expected▪ how that the Pope had secretly agreed with the Emperor to en•…•…ade, at their common cost, the Dutchy of Milan; This did wonderfully amaze al •…•…en, and especially the Venetian•…•…, because the Pope by driuing the •…•…rench, forth of Italy with his forces and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, was desirous to in•…•…hronize and encrease the Emperors power there, whom 〈◊〉〈◊〉 long before, himselfe did grea•…•…ly •…•…pect, and held dangerous for the Churches state [ 40] and for all the Princes of Italy.

The Popes deseigne was accompanied with diuers and •…•…ondry practises of the Imperialls, (the Bande•…•…i of Milan who were in great no•…•…ber and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Citty being ioyned to them) to the end that by their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 same time some sodaine 〈◊〉〈◊〉 might be raised in the Citty, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 places of the Duchy, to expell the French who dremp•…•… on 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and whose nomber was already much decreased by reason of the Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ab∣sence, who not long before was gone into France.

But the Lord of Le•…•…cut, his brother and his Lie•…•…tenant General in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, hauing discouered this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 befo•…•…e it was executed, did forth•…•…ith 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 [ 50] nombers of Soldiers, as he made himselfe assured 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and frustrated their practises 〈◊〉〈◊〉 deseignes, driuing all the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Dutchy, where they had by degrees 〈◊〉〈◊〉 themselues, whom he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 euen to the gates of Rhegio, whither they escaped by means of him that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉

For the Pope, who (as hath beene said) was a Partaker of their deseigne. Here∣vpon the Pope tooke matter of discontent, for that without any respect to his dignity and power, or to the friendship and alliance betwext him and the most Christian King, the French had come and vsed violence in his townes and Cas∣tles, making his complaints to the Venetians; whereas indeed, the King had most cause to complaine, because that by the agreement made betwixt them, it was expresly mentioned, that the Pope should not receiue the bande•…•…i of the Dutchy of Milan into his Territories, nor the king those of the Dominion of the Church into his. The Venetians being desirous, as much as in them lay, to appease this discontent, (for the Popes resolution and the treaty made, and sworne by him [ 10] with the Emperor, was no•…•… as yet manifestly knowne) sought to blot out of the Popes mind the suspition which he seemed to haue, by remembring him of the good offices which the King had euer performed to the Sea Apostolike, earnest∣ly entreating him, not for a trifle to breake the holy alliance, so long time sworne betwixt them, seeing that by the breach thereof nothing but mischeefe could en∣sue. But all these remonstrances and entreaties were bootelesse with the Pope, who had already contracted with the Emperor, on condition, that the French being expelled forth of the Dutchy of Milan, Parma, and Placentia, should bee ioyned to the Churches Patrimony, and all the residew of the state should bee restored to Francis Sforza; and that the Pope in the meane time should dispense [ 20] with Charles for the oath which hee had taken in the inuestiture of the Kingdome of Naples, to the end hee might with more iust title still retayne the Empire.

The Venetians, being wholy hope-lesse of making any attonement betwixt the Pope and the French King, resolued not to faile in their duty wherein they were tyed to the King, for the conseruation of the Dutchy of Milan. The report was that diuers soldiers were already leuied by the Pope and the Emperors com∣mand, and if their secret practizes could not preuaile, they would on a sodaine fall to open warre; for which cause, the Pope, (albeit it was vnder an other collour) had leuied sixe thousand Swisses, and Prospero Colonna being declared cheefe of the enterprise comming to Bolognia, did from all parts leuy soldiers, [ 30] whilest the Viceroy of Naples, with the Cauallery of that Kingdome, and the Mar∣quis of Pescara with the Spanish Infantery, were on the bankes of the Riuer Tran∣te, speedily to passe ouer on the first occasion. This caused the Venetians, for their part, speedily to enrole sixe thousand Italian foot, and to assemble all their Cauallery on the Bressan Territory, commiting their whole army to Theodore Triuulcio their Generall, commanding him to encampe on the banks of the ri∣uer Adda, that hee might speedily passe ouer, if the affaires of the French should require it. They commanded moreouer Paulo Nany, Gouernor at that time of Bergamo, to follow the Army with the Generall in quallity of Prouidator.

In the meane time vpon the rumor that was spred abroad in France of these [ 40] stirres in Lombardy, the King forth-with sent the Lord Lautrec to Milan, and being comme thither, perceiuing that his forces were not sufficient to defend that state, if it should be enuaded with a mighty army, he thought it fit to keepe backe the new aide which the enemies expected from comming to ioyne with them, who already had a thousand men at armes and about eight thousand foot. The Pope had but three thousand Swisses, for of sixe thousand that he had leauied, there re∣mayned with him but the one halfe. And at the same time, Fernand the Empe∣rors brother being come to villac, to assemble sixe thousand foot-men, to passe afterwards with them into Italy, to the releefe of the imperiall army; for which forces the Emperor hauing craued passage of the Venetians, they answered that [ 50] they could no•…•… doe it, in regard of their alliance with the French King, whome if they failed at his need they should be taxed with shame and infamy. Vpon this answer, because they would haue their passages to bee enforced, they sent strong garrisons thither, yet neuerthelesse after diuers propositions for the stopping of

Almaines passage, the matter being found to be difficult, they left it by the con∣sent of the Lord of Lautree to the inhabitants of the country, and sent all their forces on the Cremonois, there for to ioyne them with the French, according to Lautrecs direction, who beeing desirous to haue neere him some Venetian Gen∣tlemen of authority and experience, to conferre withall on the affaires of the war, and about the defence of the State of Milan, the Senate sent Andrè Gritti to him, Paulo N•…•…i notwithstanding remayning still in the campe as Prouidator.

They choose likewise Ieronimo Pesare for Prouidator Generall, who was care∣fully to prouide for all their fortes on the firme land, wherein were placed two thousand foot-men newly leauied, and certaine companies of men at armes, who [ 10] on all occasions should defend them from trouble and dangers. They determi∣ned moreouer at Lautrecs perswasition to haue other three thousand foot; name∣ly fifteene hundred Gascons, and as many Valesians, and likewise to contribute to the expence of certaine horse and foot companies with whom the Duke of Fer∣rara promised to come into the field in the behalfe of the French, to the end that the King and all men else should know, that they had in no •…•…ort failed for the speedy reliefe of the State of Milan, according to the couenants made betwixt them.

The French in the meane time were readier to solicite the Venetians to doe that wherevnto they were obliged by the treaty of confederacy, then they were of [ 20] themselues to make necessary prouisions, proceeding therein very slowly, which vndoubtedly is a very dangerous matter in warre: and al-be-it the Lord of Lau∣trec did warrant, that the Lord of Saint Vallier should speedily passe the mounts with six thousand French, and that tenne thousand Swisses, leauied for the King, should forthwith march: yet for all that none ca•…•…e: and on the other side the e∣nemies being growne strong and mighty, by being ioyned with the Almain foot hauing safely passed thorow the Mantuan, and from thence thorow the State of Milan, knowing how greatly speed might import them in that enterprize, were come to beseege Parma, supposing that the taking of that City would purchase them great safety and reputation. [ 30]

Now the Lord Lautrec hauing intelligence of their march, suspecting their de∣seigne, sent his brother the Lord of Escut with a strong garrison for the gard of that city: yet neuerthelesse that did not stay their enterprize, hoping easily to achiue it, as well for that the place was not very strong, as because their army was great and wel stored with all necessaries, as in deed it would haue come to passe, if Lautrec, who had receiued new supplies of Swisses, had not approched the ene∣mies, by whose comming, and likewise for that the Duke of Ferrara with great numbers of foot-men marched to assaile Modena, and Regio, Prospero Colonna was enforced (as he afterwards said) to discampe from before Parma, to the great griefe and discontent of the Pope, who by his confederacy with the Emperor did [ 40] chiefly harken after the taking thereof.

The euent of this first enterprize hauing such bad successe was cause that the Pope complayning of the Emperours captaines entred into summe suspition of them, as if they had drawne forth the seege of Parma at length, vntill that necessi∣ty had enforced them to discampe, perceiuing that his great desire to obtaine that City made him freely to contribute to all the charges and expences of the warres.

The Emperour on the other side hauing discouered the Popes suspition, fea∣red, that if he should obtaine that which he pretended to haue by the treaty of a∣greement betwixt them, he would then giue ouer the remainder of the enterprize [ 50] as easily as he had forsaken the French Kings alliance, excusing himselfe either vp∣on the cost or danger of the warres: wherevpon for the better assurance of his deseignes, he resolued if it were possible to draw the Venetians to his party, and ioyne them to the league, and to that end he determined to send Alp•…•…so Saus

to Venice to remaine there as Ambassador for the Imp•…•… Maiesty, and whom he caused with great cunning and vehemency to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 againe to the Senate, that to ioyne with him and the Pope was the true meanes to obtaine peace no lesse by him desired then by themselues, and for a testimony of his speech hee a∣leadged, That although the Emperour might obtaine the Dutchy of Milan, by iust title, yet neuerthelesse he would inuest Francis Sforza Duke of Ba•…•… therein, thereby to reduce the affaires of Italy to a quiet and peace able State.

〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉 [ 10]

At the last Prospero Colonna beganne to march first, bending towards the Ri∣uer Adda to passe i•…•…, and afterwards to march directly to Milan, which was the whole ayme of the warre. Lautrec beeing aduertized hereof did soone dislodge [ 20] from the Cremona territory, where hee had for a certaine time remained, and marched towards Cassan, to stoppe the enemies passage of the Riuer, who neuer∣thelesse by their speedy comming thither before the French, did crosse it betwixt Riua and Cassan: and then went on their way towards Milan▪

Lautrec being preuented of his hope did in great hast follow the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, be∣ing desirous, if occasion serued, to offer them battaile. But Prospero Colonna, not meaning to hazard any thing, proceeded in such manner as hee looke away all meanes of comming to a battaile, which Lautrec perceiuing, did at last retire with his army, which did dayly decrease, especially the Swisses, who went their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 without leaue vnder collour that they wanted their pay, and came to Milan, lea∣uing [ 30] the Venetian Prouidator with the artillery at Lodi, because that their Gene∣rall Triuulcio, hauing followed Lautrec had entred with him into Milan.

Now Lautrec beeing come to Milan perceiuing his owne army to be dimini∣shed, and that of the enemies to be mightily encreased, he caused the Bastions and rampiers to bee razed, which the Duke of Bourbon had before then caused to bee made, resoluing not to stirre from thence, and there to expect aide from France. Prospero hauing crossed the Adda, and hauing intelligence that Lautrec was retired to Milan, fortifying it in all hast, determined to follow him, and came and lodged in an Abbey with in foure miles off Milan, called Cherauall, where be∣ing vncertaine what he were best to doe, in regard of the great numbers of men [ 40] that were within the City, a husbandman was brought before him that had beene taken comming from Milan, who told him in the presence of all the captaines, that hee was sent by some of the Imperiall faction that were within the City to Ieronimo Moron, to let them know that if they would march directly to Mi∣lan, they were certaine that hee might enter it, but if they should delay the mat∣ter and giue the French men leisure to fortifie themselues it would not then bee in their power to expell them. Vpon this aduertisement it was concluded by the chiefe captaines that the Marquis of Pescara with the Spanish bands, whom he then commanded, should march directly to the Roman gate, to be there at sunne set. Theodore Triuulcio, Generall of the Venetian army, had the gard of [ 50] that gate and the suburb, where the Marquis of Pescara being come, taking twelue hundred men for that seruice hee gaue directly in vpon a bastion that was new begunne, and not yet defensible, wherevpon those of the gard were so amazed as without fight they were put to rout, forsaking their gard and fortifications.

Theodore Triuu•…•… Commander of those troupes being sicke in his bead, did on a sodaine arise and marched against the enemies with such few souldiers as hee could gather together, to susteine that attempt, thinking that they would follow him, but Night not blushing, and beeing vnaccompanied, he was beaten downe and taken prisoner with Iulio of Saint Seuerin, the Marquis of Vigeua, Mercurio Buono, captaine of the Venetian light horse, Lodouico Marin Secretary to the com∣mon-wealth, with diuers others.

Lautrec hauing notice that the Venetian army being surprized had abandoned the suburbes without any fight, came with the residue of the army before the place of the castle. But perceiuing that there was no meanes to keepe the City the said [ 10] suburbe being lost, determined to retire, and tooke the direct way towards Coma, with all his men at armes to be nere the Swisses, expecting the succor that was to come from France, hauing before his departure left captaine Masearon a Gascon to command the castle with fifty men at armes and six hundred French foot.

The enemies being masters of the city, made an inestimable spoile there, with∣out any exception of persons, for the sacke lasted tenne whole daies, no com∣mandement being of force to cause the souldiers to giue ouer. The Venetian hors∣men departed from Laude and were comming towards Milan, but hauing intelli∣gence by the way of the Cities losse & Lautrecs retreat, they escaped to Bergamo. [ 20]

Lautrec being come to Coma, the foure thousand Swisses that remained in the French campe, did the morrow after retire home towards their country, their cap∣taines not being able to hold them backe. Lautrec departing afterwards from Coma with the residue of his troupes, went to Lec, where hauing crossed the Ri∣uer, hee placed all his men at armes in garrison in the Venetian country, but so soone as he was gonne from Coma, the enemies came thither, who hauing bat∣tered it ten or twelue daies, tooke it by composition.

Vpon report of these conquests of the enemies, Lauda, Pauia, Parma and Pla∣centia yeelded vnto them without any difficulty, Cremona within a while after did the like, but Lautrec comming thither on a sodaine with his forces did forth∣with [ 30] recouer it by meanes of the castle which held out yet for the French.

In this sort did the French lose, without being defeated or fighting any one Battaile, that goodly and ritch State, which they had purchased at so high a price, and with so much effusion of blood. Prospero Colonna in the meane time, to make vse of his good fortune, pursued Lautrec, seeking wholly to defeat him, who (as hath beene said) departing from Coma and beeing come to the Giradade, had passed the Bressan territory, and from thence was come to Cremona, which ha∣uing recouered, he remained there three or foure dayes, and then returned into the Venetians Contrey. Now in this meane time Prospero Colonna hauing in∣telligence that Alexandria was left to the Gard of the Cittizens, he went thither [ 40] and became maister thereof. At the last, because winter was well foreward, the Senate permitted Lautrec to winter in their territories, whereof the Emperours Ambassador, resident at Venice, complayning to the Senate, they answered that in so great a disaster enemies were to be releeued, and that it was against reason to refuse their friends and confederates, and that in regard of the conuentions & treaties passed betwixt them, common ciuility did tie them to releeue the French in their aduersity, and to giue them all helpe & aide, as wel for the desense as reco∣uery of the State of Milan: yet neuerthelesse somwhat to content him, it was de∣creed that the French and Venetians should remaine quiet whilest the French should continue in the Venetians territories, least that the enemies being enfor∣ced to defend themselues, should make any incursions vpon their State. [ 50]

But Bartlemew of Villa-claro hauing transgressed that decree, and crossing the Adda, making incursiōs on the Bergamask, the Prouidator Gritti permitted al mē to defend themselues against the Imperials, whervpon certain companies of light horse with certaine gentlemen banished from Milan going forth of Cremona, & hauing crossed the Adda did on a sodaine assaile certaine numbers of the enemies

men at armes, and hauing disarmed them, brought them away as prisoners.

Lautrec in the meane time was desirous to march into the field with these for∣ces that he had, and to goe to Cremona, determining to make a bridge ouer the Po at Pontuico, nere to Casalmajor, to become master of the country on this side and beyond the Riuer, that hee might freely ioyne with the Duke of Ferrara, who was in the field with great forces to trie if hee could take Modena and Reg∣gio. As also because that place was thought to bee very commodious for the assailing of the Mantuan territory, and especially Viadana, a ritch place and a∣bounding with all things, from whence they might draw great quantity of vic∣tuals for the nourishment of the army, and enforce the Marquis of Mantua (who [ 10] as Gonfaloniero, or captaine Generall of the Church, was in the army of the league) to come and defend his owne country. But the Venetians not beeing of opinion to enterprize any thing till their forces were strong and well confir∣med, nor in time of aduersity to purchase new enemies, disswaded Lautrec from that determination.

The affaires of Lumbardy standing at this stay, Pope Leo, vpon the newes that the French had lost the City of Milan, receiued such high content, and was so o∣uerioyed as a Catharre and a continuall feuer killed him in three daies space. His death did greatly preiudice the army of the league, as well in regard of the Swisses, who no sooner vnderstood it but they departed sodainely from the campe [ 20] and forth of the whole state of Milan and returned home into their country, as also for the departure of the Cardinall of Medicis, Legat in the Churches army, who vpon the report of the Pope his cosins death, hauing discharged the army re∣tired himselfe to Rome.

A new occasion did then present it selfe for the recouery of the State of Milan as easily as it was lost, the townes not beeing furnished with sufficient garrisons, nor the army of the league strong enough in the field for to releeue them. Be∣side, there was great confusion and disorder in Milan, the people beeing incensed against the Imperialls, for the losses which they had susteined by the Spanish [ 30] foot-men, Swisses and Almaines, for which they hated them as much and more then they had in time before done the French, and next, by the departure of the Cardinals of Medicis and Syon, who were gone to the creation of the new Pope, the authority of the league was much diminished.

For these causes the Venetians beganne to leauy forces from all parts, and commanded the greatest part of their garrisons which were dispersed here and there to march into the field: and that which did most of all confirme them, was, that the Swisses hauing published a generall assembly at Lucerna, they there de∣creed with a generall consent, to take vpon them the protection of the French, and to helpe them to recouer the Dutchy of Milan, wherevpon, they speedily sent to the Venetians, wishing them still to continue their alliance with the French, [ 40] for they were resolued to take armes for them and their allies. These newes did put fresh courage into Lautrec, and al-be-it it was in the depth of winter, hee neuerthelesse determined to march into the field, and to enter the State of Milan.

Prospero Colonna in the meane time did his best to fortifie the City of Milan, hauing strenthened the Spanish garrison there with certain number of Lanse que∣nets whom he sent for thither, and made all preparations for the susteyning of a long seege if need should be.

The French on the other side and the Venetians sitting in councell to deter∣mine what they should first attempt, after diuers and sundry opinions, they resol∣ued [ 50] that Frederico Bozole should crosse the Po, with a good troupe of choice soul∣diers, and should goe to the confines of Parma, to listen what was done there, not carrying any artillery with him, to the end that if his designe prospered not hee might freely & without danger make his retreat, & that the residue of the army, as

well French as Venetians should meet on the Cremonois. But Bozole beeing come neere to Parma and Placentia, not daring to attempt any thing, returned to Lautrecs campe at Cremona, as wise as hee went, and no other enterprize was made in this yeere 1527. These two great Princes neuerthelesse, the Emperour Charles and the French King continuing much incensed the one against the o∣ther, whereby it was foreseene, that Italy and diuers other Prouinces were to endure greeuous warres, as it came to passe the yeeres ensuing.

[ 10]

The end of the fourth Booke of the fifth Decade.

[ 20]

Notes

• The Senate dis∣burdeneth the commonwealth in time of peace.
• The Vniuersity of Padua rees∣tablished by th. Senate.
• The Venetians send two Am∣bassadors t•…•… the great Turk•…•….
• Selims victo∣ries.
• The Mama∣l•…•…kes vanqui∣shed by Selim▪
• Selim takes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cairo.
• Selim granteth the Venetians demands.
• The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to Charles King of Spaine concerning tra•…•…fick.
• The vsuall trade of the Venetian ves∣sels.
• Truce •…•…∣ed betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians.
• The Pope ex∣horteth christi∣an Princes to take armes a∣gainst the Turkes.
• The Venetians answere •…•…o the Popes exhorta∣tion.
• The Emperor Maximilian▪ death.
• The French and Spanish King aspire to the Emperor.
• The French Kings request to the Vene∣tians.
• The Venetians answer to the French King.
• Charles king of Spaine chosen Emperor.
• Lewis King of Hungary pre∣par•…•…th for de∣fence against the Turke.
• The alliance is renewed be∣twixt Soliman and the Vene∣tians.
• The Uenetians arme against the Pirats.
• VVhy the French King did distrust the Elect Em∣peror.
• After what manner 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Pope would consent to •…•…he King•…•… preposi∣tion.
• The Venetians suspect the French King.
• The Emperor seeketh the Ve∣netians friend∣ship.
• The com•…•…sso∣ners of the Emperor and the Venetians me•…•…t at Verona
• The dem•…•…ds of the Vene∣tian commissi∣oners.
• The assembly is broken of without any conclusion, and the Uenetians are put in hope of •…•… prosper•…•…s •…•…d.
• An. 1520.
• Soliman resol∣ueth to enuade the Realme of Hungary▪
• An. 1521.
• The oration of the Hun∣garian Am∣bassador.
• VVhat the Se∣nate concluded after the Am∣bassadors ora∣tion.
• Another Am∣bassador from the King of Hungary at Ve∣•…•…ice.
• The Venetians send the King of Hungary thirty thou∣sand Duca•…•…s
• Belgrade taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Turkes.
• The Emperors promises to the Venetians.
• VVhat moo•…•…d the Emperor to send his Am∣bassador to the French King.
• The King of England, is chosen Vmpier and mediator betwixt migh∣ty Princes.
• The French King and the King of En∣gland talke to∣gether
• The Uenetian comon wealth, doe •…•…sten a d•…•…ghter of the French Kings.
• VVhy the King delayed to conclude the league.
• The Popes new 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪
• The Pope and the E•…•…peror make 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against the French King.
• VVhat the Popes and Em∣peros deseignes were.
• The Lord of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣prise of the •…•…andetti of Mi•…•…an.
• The Pope is is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the Lord L'•…•…scut his pursute.
• The Venetians seeke to appease the Popes in∣dignation a∣gainst the French.
• The conditions of the agree∣ment betwixt the Pope and the Emperor.
• The Popes and •…•…emperors for∣•…•…s need•…•… to march, if their secret intelli∣gences should faile.
• The Venetian army redy to march.
• The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 passage for his soldiers
• Ieronimo Pe∣sare Prouida∣tor of all the forts on the firme land.
• In what man∣ner the Vene∣tians did re∣leeue the Start of Milan.
• The Lord of Lautrec ho∣peth for aide.
• The Imperials beseege Parma.
• The Lord of Lautrec suc∣coreth Parmai Prospero Co∣lonna raiseth his campe from before Parma.
• The Pope sus∣pecteth the Imperials.
• The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 destasted with the Popes sus∣pition.
• The Emperour by his Ambas∣sador seeketh to draw the Venetians to his side.
• The army of the league marcheth di∣rectly to Mi∣lan.
• The enemies passe ouer the riuer Adda without any impediment.
• The Swisses leaue the French campe for want of pay.
• Leutrec forti∣fieth Milan.
• Prospero Co∣lonna is with∣in foure miles of Milan.
• The traitors in milan giue ad∣uertizement to Prospero Co∣lonna.
• The enemies being come to Milan win the Roman Gate •…•…d the suburb.
• Triuulcio ta∣ken prisoner by the Imperi∣als.
• Lautrec veti∣reth with his Cauallery to Coma.
• Moscaron cap∣taine of the castle of Mi∣lan.
• Milan is sack•…•… ten whole daies together.
• The Swisses retire home in∣to their coun∣try.
• Coma taken.
• The Imperials breake the De∣cree.
• Lautrecs de∣termination.
• The Venetians disswade Lau∣trec from his resolution.
• Pope Leo his sodaine death.
• The Cardinall of Medicis af∣ter the Popes death retireth to Rome.
• The Venetians leauy forces to march into the Dutchy of Milan.
• Colonna forti∣fieth Milan.
• The French & Venetian ar∣my on the Cremonois.